May 2nd, 2019 Edition

t. LouiS AmericAn

“I am a political person, I have to be, I’m in politics. That’s what we do.” – Steve Stenger

Steve Stenger indicted, resigns as county exec

Prosecutor: ‘It was a pay-to-play scheme that involved bribes’

By Rebecca Rivas Of The St. Louis American

Steve Stenger resigned as St. Louis County Executive on Monday, April 29 after his indictment on three federal counts of bribery, mail fraud and theft of honest services following a yearlong undercover federal investigation was unsealed.

“It was a pay-to-play scheme that involved bribes, paid through political donations in exchange for his official acts in directing others to award contracts – either through St. Louis County or the St. Louis Economic Development Partnership,” said Hal Goldsmith, assistant U.S. attorney.

Goldsmith spoke to the press after Stenger’s arraignment hearing at the Thomas F. Eagleton Courthouse on April 29. Each charge carries a maximum penalty

lone

By Rebecca Rivas Of The St. Louis American

By Sandra Jordan

n “This has not been a joy to me. This has been sad. I think that our county citizens should be able to weigh in on this.”

– Councilwoman Hazel Erby

of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Stenger pled not guilty. His attorney has until June 13 to file any pretrial motions.

“The investigation involved the cooperation of any number of witnesses and concerned citizens, court-ordered search warrants, court-ordered pen orders, review of thousands of emails, text messages, resulting

The St. Louis County Council selected Sam Page, its chairman, to succeed County Executive Steve Stenger at an emergency special meeting on Monday, April 29. Earlier that day, Stenger’s indictment on federal bribery and mail fraud was unsealed, and he resigned and pled notguilty. The council voted 5-1, with Page abstaining. Stenger’s only opposing vote was Councilwoman Hazel Erby, who said that, as the most senior Democrat

Bell charges cop in shooting at Ladue Schnucks

Mistook service revolver for taser while apprehending suspected shoplifter

By Rebecca Rivas Of The St. Louis American

The white Ladue cop who shot a 33-yearold black woman in the Ladue Schnucks parking lot on April 23 has been charged with assault in the second degree, St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell announced at a press conference on Wednesday, May 1. Julia Crews, 37, a 13-year veteran of law enforcement, made public statements this week that she had mistaken her service revolver for her taser while attempting to apprehend the fleeing woman, who was suspected of shoplifting.

However, Bell said the officer’s actions were “reckless” and the charges were “appropriate.”

“The facts of this case are very clear, and the investigation has given us the answers we need to determine that charges should be brought against Julia Crews,” Bell said.

The victim, a mother of five, suffered a single gunshot wound to the torso, according to police. She has not been charged with any crime, and the investigation is ongoing. She remains in critical condition, Bell said. Police said the officer was responding to a call at around 3 p.m. from the Ladue Schnucks, located at 8867 Ladue Rd., concerning two alleged shoplifters inside the store.

Upon arrival, Crews detained a female matching the description of a person involved in the shoplifting, according to the probable cause statement. As Crews attempted to secure the woman in handcuffs, a struggle ensued and the woman attempted to run away, it states. Crews pursued the woman on foot.

During that short pursuit, there is evidence to suggest that she gave a verbal warning that she was going to deploy her taser, Bell said. Instead, Crews pulled her

Steve Stenger and his attorney Scott Rosenblum approached the former county executive’s arraignment hearing at the Thomas F. Eagleton Courthouse on Monday, April 29. Stenger pled not guilty to three federal counts of bribery, mail fraud and theft of honest services.

Photo by Wiley Price

See STENGER, A6

See BELL, A6

New Interim County Executive Sam Page faced the press on Tuesday, April 30.

Wesley Bell

Photo by Jason Rosenbaum / St. Louis Public Radio

Jussie Smollet probably erased from ‘Empire’

Jussie Smollett is unlikely to be returning to “Empire.” The Fox show has been renewed for a sixth season, but producers have revealed that the 36-year-old actor— who stars as Jamal Lyon in the hit series – will probably not be reappearing on the show, but he has had his contract extended to keep the future of his character open.

Fox Entertainment and 20th Century Fox Television said in a statement: “By mutual agreement, the studio has negotiated an extension to Jussie Smollett’s option for season six, but at this time there are no plans for the character of Jamal to return to ‘Empire.’”

A spokesperson for Smollett added: “We’ve been told that Jussie will not be on ‘Empire’ in the beginning of the season, but he appreciates they have extended his contract to keep Jamal’s future open. Most importantly he is grateful to Fox and ‘Empire’ leadership, cast, crew and fans for their unwavering support.”

It comes after the cast of ‘Empire’ penned an open letter asking for Smollett to return to his role in the drama series.

The open letter, signed by his castmates including Terrence Howard, Taraji P. Henson, Bryshere Y. Gray, Trai Byers, Gabourey Sidibe and Nicole Ari Parker asked for bosses to bring the actor – who was accused of orchestrating a racist and homophobic attack on himself in January –back for the next series of the show after the City of Chicago dropped charges.

“Throughout Empire’s five seasons, working with Jussie and watching how he has conducted himself throughout this traumatic event, we have come to know not just the character Jussie portrays, but also truly come to know Jussie’s personal character,” the letter read. “He is kind. He is compassionate. He is honest and above all he is filled with integrity. He is also innocent and no longer subject to legal uncertainty with the criminal charges against him having been dropped.”

Bushwick Bill has Stage 4 pancreatic cancer

Bushwick Bill, one of the founding members of the legendary rap group, Geto Boys, is battling stage 4 pancreatic cancer.

The 52-year-old told TMZ.com he was diagnosed back in February and he’s currently undergoing intensive

chemotherapy treatments, but he told the celebrity news and gossip site that it’s too early to tell how his body’s responding to the chemo.

The rapper says his diagnosis came as a shock, because he was getting tests for months for a mass on his pancreas – a mass doctors said was benign.

In a video that has since been posted on several outlets, Bill said he had been keeping his diagnosis private, only telling close family members.

Jail time for Soulja Boy

has been sentenced to eight months in prison following his probation violation earlier this year.

The 28-year-old rapper has been in jail since earlier this month, when he was put behind bars pending a court date into his probation violation case, stemming from weapons violations he was convicted of eight years ago.

And after the court hearing on Tuesday, he was found guilty of having ammunition in his home - which he is not allowed to own as part of his probation - that police found after they carried out a raid at his home in February to investigate a

claim that Soulja had kidnapped and assaulted his girlfriend. According to The Blast, a judge sentenced the ‘Crank That’ hitmaker to 240 days in prison for the crime, but as he’s been in jail for some time already, he’s been given credit for 40 days served.

Attorney appointed for estate of John Singleton

Just days before his death on April 29, the mother of director John Singleton filed for conservatorship over his estate. At least one of his children was rumored to have objected to the move.

According to celebrity legal news site The Blast, an attorney has been appointed to represent Singleton’s estate.

“An attorney was appointed by the court on Monday to represent John Singleton‘s interests — in the battle between his mother and daughter over conservatorship — on the same day the legendary director passed away,” The Blast said. “According to court documents obtained by The Blast, an attorney named Yasha Bronshteyn was named to “act as counsel for John Singleton, the proposed conservatee. The order states that Bronshteyn “shall have access and authority to review and copy the medical records of John Singleton, the proposed conservatee, without his/her consent.”

Sources: The Blast, TMZ.com, Instagram.com

Soulja Boy

‘It’s our duty to show kids where they can find nature’

‘The idea that they’re looking at screens all the time, that scares me,’ says nature educator

By Eli Chen

Of St. Louis Public Radio

It was one of the first days of spring, and Cara Murphy had her work cut out for her.

In a field in St. Louis’ Tower Grove Park, the outdoor educator sat on a blanket, surrounded by more than a dozen loud and distracted children between the ages of 4 to 10. She held a large poster covered in illustrations of animals and plants. Some children pointed and named animals on the poster; a few focused more on digging up the dirt around them.

Murphy is teaching a class called “Food Web” about how animals, plants, the sun and other organisms consume energy from each other. It’s one of several classes she started teaching this year for In The Field, an outdoor education organization she recently founded.

By observing and learning facts about wildlife in parks and other natural areas, kids are more likely to appreciate the nature that exists where they live, Murphy said.

“We don’t do a very good job as a culture of helping people discover what they might see in their backyard or in a crack of a sidewalk,” Murphy said. “They might be seeing some really cool plants, but if you don’t know anything about them, then it’s not cool.”

After putting the food web poster away, Murphy began to unravel a ball of yarn. She asked the children to stand up and assume roles, like the sun,

a tree or a squirrel. When each child picked a role, they had to hold a part of the yarn.

“Does anybody not have yarn yet? Who might eat a hawk?” Murphy asked. “A kitty?” a child said. “A kitty?” Murphy responded with a laugh.

“Maybe a bobcat. Or a mountain lion. Hawks are hard to catch, but I think it’s possible.”

Once the children were properly tangled in yarn, Murphy asked them to start tugging on the yarn, which represented the food web.

“When one person tugs on the web, then generally we start feeling it around our food web. And that’s because everything ends up being connected in some way,” she said.

Murphy, 31, has spent about a decade as an outdoor educator. After studying art therapy in college in Austin, she taught families how to camp in the Texas wilderness and then worked as an interpreter at the St. Louis Zoo and the Missouri Botanical Garden.

While she enjoyed talking to visitors at the garden and the zoo about the environment, Murphy said she felt limited. She wanted to teach more subjects than she was allowed to and have the freedom to educate people in different parks in the St. Louis area.

“It’s our duty as adults to show kids where they can find nature — on the yard, out on the street, a county park or a national park,” Murphy said. Murphy began to appreciate

me, they realize there’s stuff for them outside to do.”

Nearby, parents watched their children. Many of them mentioned that they homeschool their kids and had heard about the classes through social media.

The classes mean more than just outdoor education, said Paige Johnson, whose son is in the class.

“She is doing games and stuff that I can’t do with him,” said Johnson, of Hillsboro. “He gets to show off what he knows and gets to learn stuff from other kids.”

In The Field is almost entirely run by Murphy and her husband. As Murphy teaches more classes this year, she hopes that schools in the St. Louis area will be interested in hiring her to teach classes. She’s concerned that children are spending a lot of time in front of computer and tablet screens in school.

nature playing at the creek behind her home in St. Charles as a child. She fondly recalled the nature club she formed with her cousin when they were kids and the hierarchy among the

children ran around a creek while illustrations of mushrooms, fish and other living things hung around their necks on strings. Murphy tried to call over the child wearing a

n “We don’t do a very good job as a culture of helping people discover what they might see in their backyard or in a crack of a sidewalk.”

– Cara Murphy, In The Field

one of the most famous success stories in animal conservation: when rangers reintroduced wolves back to Yellowstone National Park in the 1990s. Wolves had been nearly wiped out for decades, as ranchers killed them for preying on livestock.

“They had to bring [the wolves] back,” Murphy said. “When they did that, they noticed not only were the wolves back, but everything in the landscape changed where they brought the wolves back.”

“The idea that they’re looking at screens all the time, that scares me,” Murphy said. “Their brains are still forming, and while I don’t think things are irreparable, we might be doing more damage than we realize. We might think it’s safer for kids to be indoors, but they get more out of being outside.”

But in the long term, she wants In The Field to help children develop a lifelong appreciation for nature. If they have that, they will want to take care of the environment when they get older, she said.

“creek kids.”

“I want to help kids to be able to have that experience of being in the creek behind their house, even if they don’t have a creek by their house,” Murphy said. In Tower Grove Park,

drawing of a wolf to tell a real example of why the food web is important.

“So we’re talking about wolves in Yellowstone,” she said. “Has anybody ever been to Yellowstone National Park?” Murphy started to explain

However, as Murphy’s spoke, the children gave little indication they listened. Instead, they picked up little sticks on the ground, dug their fingers in the mud and searched for critters in the water.

“Those kids aren’t bored,” Murphy said later. “Those kids were highly engaged with what was going around them, so even if they’re not listening to

“Kids who care about being outside that understand the insanely amazing experience that you can have when you’re in nature,” Murphy said, “if they’re connected in that way, they’re more likely to want to take care of the planet, which we obviously desperately need right now.”

Follow Eli on Twitter: @ StoriesByEli.

Reprinted with permission from news.stlpublicradio.org.

Photo by Eli Chen / St. Louis Public Radio

Eli McGee of St. Louis runs around Tower Grove Park during Murphy’s class.

Editorial /C

As the county executive turns …

Living through times with the makings of being historic is fascinating because you get to savor how disorganized and unpredictable lived reality is even when the overarching storyline about this moment, once it becomes history, will be pretty clear. We believe that in 2016 the American people elected a fraud as U.S. president (via the Electoral College, and assisted by robots from Russia) and that his administration has worked doggedly to make this country (and, indeed, this planet) safer for frauds. But you would have a hard time convincing Steve Stenger of that right now.

Stenger has pled not-guilty of fraud and other abuses of office as St. Louis County executive, an office that he resigned on Monday, April 29 after his federal indictment was unsealed. While we grant him his constitutional presumption of innocence, the evidence presented against him in the indictment paints a vivid picture of a fraud brazenly in action while holding and wielding a powerful public office. According to this evidence, Stenger behaved like a fraud who was obviously confident that it was a safe time to be a fraud, especially in public office. Unfortunately for Stenger, he was under surveillance by some of those career federal investigators routinely derided by our federal fraud in chief. Running the investigation was a career federal prosecutor named Hal Goldsmith, who finds more intimidating specimens than Stenger (or his notorious defense attorney Scott Rosenblum) in his morning cereal.

What is fascinating about this deviation from the future historical narrative that Trump made America (and the world) safer for frauds is that Goldsmith is a federal prosecutor today precisely because Trump is president. Goldsmith was coaxed back into federal service from a more lucrative semi-retirement as a partner at a local law firm by U.S. Attorney Jeff Jensen, who was appointed by none other than Trump (by way of U.S. Senator Roy Blunt, who therefore also gets an assist in the Stenger takedown). Goldsmith knows Jensen to be a straight shooter who would let him do his job prosecuting frauds, especially frauds in public office — Goldsmith’s specialty, though Jensen brought him on as chief of his white-collar crime division. Ironically, given the way history will be told, Trump’s U.S. attorney in St. Louis is much more dedicated to taking down frauds — especially frauds in public office — than was Obama’s appointee. Reality is disorganized and unpredictable, no matter how clear it can be made to look when the stories about it are told. A man we believe to be a fraud was eliminated from public office in St. Louis County because a man we believe to be a much more gross and dangerous fraud is president of the United States — and it is precisely the president’s appointing powers over attorneys who investigate fraud that ended up putting this St. Louis County fraud out of

business.

We realize that readers and staff of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch may be hearing for the first time that this investigation was directed by Goldsmith and not the Post. The paper’s staffers are counting how many times the paper gets mentioned in the indictment of Stenger like high school kids finding their candid pictures in the school Yearbook. It’s understandable to take glory in an assist on taking down a fraud, but the paper’s name appears in transcripts because Goldsmith had a trusted Stenger ally wired for sound. Post reporting did help stir up Stenger’s filth and Goldsmith captured Stenger in the act of stifling that filth, which contributes to the case against Stenger – as indeed its evidence in the indictment makes clear. But once a trusted ally of the target is wired up and cooperating, the target has worse problems than even the best journalism. Without the Post’s investigation, Goldsmith still indicts Stenger — possibly later than last Thursday and with more evidence against Stenger and more co-conspirators in the wringer, had media coverage not sped things up.

And, as we argued in the Political EYE a month before Stenger became a former county exective, the Post’s reporting on Stenger’s apparent fraud was simply the paper helping to clean up a mess it had a large hand in making.

When Stenger was a little-known council member from Affton tilting at County Executive Charlie Dooley, the Post’s news and opinion editors and reporters all fell hard for Stenger’s whispers of rumored corruption in the Dooley administration. Without actual evidence like Goldsmith’s subpoena that Sam Page leaked on Stenger to the Post, the Post reported and editorialized on Dooley like he was a hunted fraud whose days in the daylight were numbered. Without enough actual evidence to engage Goldsmith and drive him and a grand jury to an indictment, Dooley was never charged with a crime – that is, anywhere but in the PostDispatch and campaign ads made by Stenger or his trusted ally Bob McCulloch. But those relentless false charges against Dooley were critical in handing Stenger a primary victory.

Goldsmith indicts Stenger without the Post but without the Post there would have been no County Executive Stenger to indict. The missing ingredients between the Dooley and Stenger investigations by the Post are actual evidence of fraud and Hal Goldsmith. The indictment of Stenger should be tallied to Goldsmith and his team. As for the Post, it is now 1-1 on fair and accurate coverage of the past two county executives and should be credited only with helping clean up a mess it helped to make in Stenger. Let’s see how the paper’s best source on bringing down Stenger, former council member Sam Page, fares in the next episode of: As the county executive turns …

City and county judicial circuits would not be better together

By Adolphus M. Pruitt

For The St. Louis American

Protecting fair, impartial adjudication is always essential and, for African Americans, now more than ever. Courts protect the rights of everyone, including businesses, individuals and even people who do not have access to the courts. Courts do this by making sure both sides are heard – whether it’s a criminal case, a contract case, or a tort case – and that the case is decided based on the evidence and the law, and not on anything else.

Courts protect the public by being the place where prosecutors can seek justice in criminal cases. Courts can also protect the public by holding companies responsible for defective products or by striking down a law or practice that is discriminatory.

Courts hold lawmakers accountable by making sure laws that are passed are fair –that they are clear enough to be understood, that they are applied to all people equally, and that they comply with the Constitution.

But courts can only do this effectively if they are fair, impartial, and independent. Jurors are vital in the American system of justice. Judges determine the law to be applied in a case, but the jury decides the facts. Thus, importantly, jurors become a part of the court itself. A jury trial is a significantly vital part of our system of checks and balances. “Checks and balances” beyond a shadow of doubt means that the judicial branch of government is equal to the other two branches

(executive and legislative) and has the power to overturn laws or acts of government that violate constitutional rights.

Better Together’s proposed changes to Article V of the Missouri Constitution provides for the merging of the 21st and 22nd judicial circuit courts creating a dilution effect, delocalizing juries and often diluting any significant minority representation. The systematic exclusion of women and racial minorities from jury service persisted in some states well into the 20th century – and the merging of the 21st and 22nd judicial circuits will have the same impact.

The right of a defendant to be judged by “a jury of one’s peers” is a bedrock concept in American justice, dating to ancient English common law. The 21st Judicial Circuit (St. Louis County) is overwhelmingly white. Thus, moving beyond the City of St. Louis to draw a jury pool for court cases inevitably dilutes minority representation and subjects African-American City residents to a patchwork response to newsworthy events and the political popularity of crime legislation.

There are numerous studies that indicate that black defendants are treated less punitively vis-a-vis nonblack defendants as the proportion of blacks on the juries increases. Moreover, as the number of

Letters to the editor

Public corruption should never be tolerated

The serious allegations regarding Steve Stenger are deeply disturbing. In 2017, my office clearly outlined the process for the County Council to initiate an audit to thoroughly investigate concerns with contracts. Stenger’s actions made it clear then, as it is now, there was no real intention of ensuring a full accounting of taxpayers’ dollars. I encourage the County Council to act now so citizens can get the answers they deserve.

Public corruption should never be tolerated. This is why I worked year after year to change state law so that my office has the authority to work with law enforcement to audit entities like St. Louis County. That solution was vetoed by ex-Governor Eric Greitens in 2017 and, the following year, it was killed on the final day of session by lobbyists working for government entities. In these final weeks of the session, I’m calling on the legislature to step up and provide law enforcement with the tools they need to expose public corruption. As long as there are public officials who put their own interests above those they are elected to serve, my office will remain committed to holding them accountable.

Missouri State Auditor Nicole Galloway Jefferson City

Many troubling findings in Mueller report

First, Special Counsel Robert Mueller must offer public testimony before Congress without delay. It is essential that the American people hear from him directly, instead of the partisan political commercial presented by Attorney General Barr.

Second, the redacted Mueller report states that Donald J. Trump and his campaign “expected to benefit from” Russia’s illegal actions” in the 2016 presidential election, an outrageous and unprecedented finding that threatens our democracy.

Third, regarding obstruction of justice, Mueller examined 10 different instances in which Trump attempted to interfere with this investigation. Mueller was “unable to conclude that no criminal activity occurred and did not exonerate him.”

Finally, the many troubling findings in the redacted Mueller report underscore why ongoing congressional oversight investigations are so essential to upholding the rule of law and defending our democracy. We will continue to pursue them with all urgency.

black jurors increases, death sentences become less likely. It thus becomes apparent that juror decision making in capital cases is highly sensitive to the demographic makeup of the jury.

The impact of this apparently gathering trend thus becomes something akin to the dilution effect observed in voting rights cases. Just as the minority vote gets diluted in at-large districting schemes but can be captured by demographically sensitive districting, the values of minority communities are more likely to be subsumed in juries drawn from a larger combined judicial circuits than they would be in smaller, citybased circuit court juries. The U.S. Supreme Court has repeatedly suggested that the composition of a given petit jury is relevant to its legitimacy. When a demographic conception is realized, the individuals making up a given petit jury appropriately reflect the demographic composition of the overall population – a measure we have relatively achieved in the 22nd Judicial Circuit (City of St. Louis). In conclusion, and on behalf of the Executive Committee of the St. Louis City Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (“St. Louis City NAACP”), we diametrically oppose merging the 21st and 22nd judicial circuits – via Better Together’s proposed constitutional amendment and its dilution effect Adolphus M. Pruitt is president of the St. Louis NAACP.

U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay St. Louis

Do what our Constitution requires

The Mueller Report documents Russian interference in our 2016 election, as have our intelligence organizations. No one is contesting this fact. This was (and still is) a direct attack on the U.S. and our Constitution. Such an attack should be considered an act of war.

President Trump has refused to acknowledge this act of war. He has also supported Russian President Putin’s lying contention Russia did not interfere. By supporting the Russian (the enemy’s) point of view, president Trump has aided and abetted the enemy. I consider this an act of treason which is a high crime. The Mueller Report also lists out many other potential high crimes and misdemeanors. Congress can and should impeach a president for high crimes and misdemeanors. We know the Republicans won’t do anything. It’s time for the Democrats to what our Constitution requires. Democrats who don’t stand up for what they know is right should be called wimpocrats and voted out of office.

C. Wulff, St. Louis

Columnist

Adolphus M. Pruitt

Photo by Wiley Price

Now former County Executive Steve Stenger and his defense counsel Scott Rosenblum arriving at federal court in St. Louis on Monday, April 29.

Love on the Move

Better Family Life led The Move, a march and rally dedicated to supporting those who have lost their loved ones to violence, on Saturday, April 13. At the annual march, people hold up signs honoring the people they have lost, and friends and community members come out and walk by their side to show support.

Run for Sight in Forest Park on May 5

Superhero is the theme at the Delta Gamma Center’s fundraiser Run for Sight in Forest Park on Sunday, May 5. The 5K run begins at 9 a.m. with the 3K walk and Kids Dash to follow. The Delta Gamma Center helps kids with visual impairments. Jackie Joyner-Kersee is the host.

Co-chairs of the event, Jenn and Lucas Kendall, have a daughter who was born with ocular albinism, a genetic condition that often causes vision impairment. They found specialized services and support at Delta Gamma Center.

For more information and to register visit dgcrunforsight.org.

Lift For Life Academy to open elementary school

In August Lift For Life Academy, the first charter school to open in St. Louis, will open an elementary school in a building adjacent to its current campus at 1920 S. 7th St. as part of a long-range plan to be a Kindergarten through 12th grade education option.

Located in Soulard, the Lift For Life campus includes educational, arts and athletic space, after-school care, citywide transportation, meals and full-service healthcare clinic.

Slated to open for Kindergarten, first and 2nd graders, the school is now accepting applications. Apply online at liftforlifeacademy. org or 314-231-2337.

It takes a village to build a park in Ferguson

By Shirley Emerson For The St. Louis American

The idea for a new park in Ferguson – Halpin Park, at 7533 Halpin Dr. – generated from a conversation Ella Jones, Ferguson City Council member for Ward 1, had with one of her constituents regarding an existing park (at 7486 Halpin Dr.) in Ward 3. The Ward 1 resident expressed concerns about the unsafe conditions of the park. It is too small, very dark, and slopes downward away from the road, making it a safety hazard, especially for children.

Jones and the resident were very concerned about the matter, so Jones further investigated the situation. Jones began to spearhead the project for a better location for the park. She conferred with two of her council colleagues and Ward 3 representatives, Keith Kallstrom and Wesley Bell. They discussed the problems with the existing park and explored how the neighborhood could be improved for the residents. A lot at 7533 Halpin Dr. was identified as a better site for the park.

The lot was owned by St. Louis County. In October 2016, Jones sent a letter to County Executive Steve Stenger requesting that the county consider donating 7533 Halpin Dr. to the City of Ferguson to be used as a neighborhood park. In 2017, St. Louis County made 7533 Halpin Dr. available to Ferguson for the cost of recording the deed, which was $27.

After receiving the land from St. Louis County, Jones nominated two Ferguson residents to serve on the Parks & Recreation Board: Fran Griffin, Ward 3 resident (and now council member-elect) and Phedra Nelson, Ward 1 resident and Community Wellness director of the Healthy Schools Healthy Communities Initiative for the Gateway region YMCA.

A set of concept drawings for the proposed park have been completed. Ward 3 residents – including Griffin, who is also vice president of the Southeast Ferguson Community Association – had an opportunity to review and provide input on the design of the park.

On Sunday, October 29, 2017, Jones, Kallstrom, Bell, Griffin and Nelson hosted the first Trunk N Treat and park cleanup on the lot, slated to become the new park at 7533 Halpin Dr. It was a fun and festive occasion for all who came out. After the cleanup, children played and there was food, fun, and treats for everyone.

The Halpin Park Project quickly blossomed into a neighborhood revitalization project in partnership with the St. Louis Gateway regional YMCA’s Healthy Schools Healthy Communities Initiative and Community Forward, Inc., whose mission is to create a shared vision that advances the concept of livable communities across individual municipal boundaries.

The goal of the Halpin Park Project is to provide outdoor recreational services to children and their families not otherwise available within a reasonable walking distance. The YMCA has been awarded the opportunity, through the Halpin Park Project, to develop and implement a strategy to improve the overall health of the Ferguson community.

The project will be maintained by the City of Ferguson. However, community partners, such as the Gateway region YMCA, will use the project for neighborhood-based outreach activities. As the leader of the Halpin Park Project, Nelson has given numerous presentations to businesses, organizations, and civic groups, to obtain funding and in-kind donations. Nelson’s efforts have resulted in the project receiving a grant to pay for playground equipment. Nelson and Jones are continuing their efforts to secure additional funding for the project.

Shirley Emerson is a resident of Ward 1 in the City of Ferguson and secretary of Community Forward, Inc.

Shirley Emerson

Photo by Joe Prowell

BELL

Continued from A1

service firearm and fired one shot. Crews struck the woman in the torso as she was running away from the officer, Bell said.

Rather than seek a special prosecutor in the case – which Bell said would be an “undue burden” on taxpayers – his office has established an external review committee, consisting of retired Judge Van Lisa Amburg and municipal judges Felicia Ezell-Gillespie and Jack Duepner (who previously served in the county prosecutor’s office for 25 years). The committee of volunteers will continue to independently review and submit recommendations on whether charges should or should not be filed in all officer-involved shootings.

“In this matter, law enforcement, our office and the entire external review committee agreed that charges should be filed,” Bell said.

STENGER

Continued from A1 in the charges today,” Goldsmith said.

The investigation, which began in early 2018, was conducted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Postal Inspection Service, with the assistance of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations.

The indictment alleges that beginning in October 2014 and continuing through December 31, 2018, Stenger secretly used his official position to aid companies in getting favorable treatment from the county in exchange for campaign contributions. Several of Stenger’s top officials were named in the indictment as being directed to help his donors get county dollars. It alleges that Stenger had a “trustee program,”

Should the case go to trial, Bell said the case would be handled by the office’s “conviction incident review unit,” which will be a walledoff unit independent from the rest of the office – and one that reports solely to Bell. The unit has not yet been established, though he has asked the St. Louis County Council for funds for the unit. Assault in the second degree is Class C felony, punishable by up to seven years in prison, a fine up to $5,000, or both. Crews has turned herself into police, and her bond amount was 10 percent of $20,000.

The Ladue Police Department has asked the St. Louis County Police Department to conduct an independent investigation of the incident. The officer remains on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. Bell visited with the victim’s family this morning, and he said he aims to expand his office’s victim services and “make sure they are treated with dignity and respect.”

where individuals seeking contracts would donate $2,500 every quarter to Stenger for a total of $10,000 a year.

One of these trustees was John Rallo of Cardinal Insurance, who obtained insurance contracts through St. Louis County during 2015 and 2016, it states. Rallo also obtained a $130,000 consulting contract for another company, Cardinal Creative Consulting, through the St. Louis County Port Authority in 2016. The indictment documents a conversation between Stenger and Chief of Policy Jeff Wagener, where he talks about the consulting contract being “PR rehab for the county” after the Ferguson unrest. Montel Williams was to be the spokesman. The indictment alleges, “Rallo and Cardinal Consulting did no actual work under the consulting agreement.”

Rallo allegedly made up falsified information during his monthly reports to the Port

After Bell’s announcement, Robert Hall Sr., the victim’s father said that the entire process has been very emotional.

“I’m trusting Wesley Bell’s office to do everything accordingly and just,” Hall said.

The victim’s mother, Karen Carter, said that the incident happened on her birthday, and the balloons her daughter bought were shaped like the numbers five and two for Carter’s 52nd birthday.

“My daughter, I just want her to wake up,” Carter said.

Crews’ attorney Travis Noble also spoke to press following the announcement and disputed Bell’s assertion that his client’s actions were “reckless.”

“It’s an overcharge,” Noble said. “The officer pulled what she believed to be the taser –a tragic accident – and then discharged the round, thinking that it’s her taser.”

The victim’s sister, Aigner Hall, said, “We feel that this should never have happened, whether it was a taser or a gun.”

Authority’s board. And two other “trustees” were paid out of the contract, even though they also did no work.

When asked if other Stenger “trustees” are being investigated, Goldsmith said that the investigation was ongoing. He said generally that it’s “always possible” that other individuals will be indicted with crimes.

Stenger also allegedly ensured that another Rallo company, Wellston Holdings, LLC, obtained options during 2016 and 2017 to purchase two properties in Wellston, which were held by the Land Clearance for Redevelopment Authority of St. Louis County. Rallo’s partner on this deal was also a “trustee.” The indictment documents conversations between Rallo and Sheila Sweeney, then chief executive of the St. Louis Economic Partnership, where she allegedly advised Rallo on how to win the bid on a Wellston property – including

the amount to bid in order to beat out his competition.

The indictment also alleges that Stenger made sure a donor’s state lobbying contract was renewed with the St. Louis Economic Development Partnership. At one point, Sweeney was considering “playing it straight” and selecting the cheaper lobbyist contract, according to conversations between Stenger’s top staff in the indictment.

“She took the role,” Stenger said, according to the indictment. “You’re either going to do it or you’re not. Get the F--- out. You’re a political person. Every one of our department heads is a political person. You two (Bill Miller and Wagener) are political people, I am a political person, I have to be, I’m in politics. That’s what we do. It’s not the art of f---ing over your friends. It’s the art of how do I work with people I trust and know.”

William Miller, his chief of staff, responded, “It’s the art of staying in power.”

Stenger agreed, “It’s the art of staying in power.”

Miller resigned on April 12.

In another message, Stenger said that he was going to fire Sweeney before she made the “wrong” decision. Sweeney, a Stenger appointee, left the partnership in January, though it’s unclear if she was fired.

In a statement from the partnership’s chairman Karlos Ramirez, he said the partnership’s new leader, Interim CEO Rodney Crim, will continue to cooperate with federal authorities investigating Stenger.

The indictment alleges that Stenger took steps to hide, conceal and cover up his illegal conduct and actions, including making false public statements. It states that Sweeney directed Rallo not to talk with a St. Louis PostDispatch reporter and even directed Rallo to take his name

off as the registered agent for Cardinal Consulting in the Missouri Secretary of State records.

Sweeney said, “Got to cover him (Stenger)! And me too!!!!”

Rallo replied, “I know, I’ve got you covered.” Stenger also said to Rallo, “I bent over f---ing backwards for you, and I asked you one simple f---ing thing, talk don’t to the f---ing press.”

Stenger received a personal recognizance bond, which means he gave his personal promise to appear at the court proceedings, Goldsmith said. When asked if that was standard for public officials, he said, “It’s standard for individuals, such as this defendant, who has no prior convictions and there’s no suggestion that he would continue to commit danger to the community or risk of flight.”

St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell announced charges against a Ladue Police officer who shot a suspected shoplifter during a press conference on Wednesday, May 1.

Photo by Wiley Price

health care activist.

In 1965, Thompson graduated from Homer G. Phillips School of Nursing and worked as a registered nurse at Homer G. Phillips Hospital for two years.

“Homer G. Phillips Hospital came into existence as the response to the structural and institutionalized racism. African Americans were denied health care, period. Anywhere,” Thompson said.

“From the day the doors of Homer G. Phillips Hospital swung open, it was the jewel of our community.”

The hospital, opened in 1937, became renowned worldwide for services and training provided to AfricanAmerican nurses and doctors.

Thompson worked at Barnes Hospital for 10 years before returning in 1977 to Homer G., where she became a leader in the effort to save the hospital. Despite all efforts, the hospital closed in 1979. However, Thompson remained on the front lines in her retirement years.

“The struggle united and joined with the ongoing, protracted struggle for accessible healthcare for all,” Thompson said. “The struggle for health care we as human beings need to survive and thrive continues. It must continue.”

This includes defending the decade-old Affordable Care Act.

buy diapers with WIC,” said founder and Executive Director Jessica Adams. “Generally speaking, when you go to a food pantry, if you ask, they’re going to tell you ‘no.’ And diapers impact almost every aspect of a family’s stability and health.”

The diaper bank now has dozens of distribution partners who give out two million diapers each year for area children. The diaper bank also will soon begin distributing menstrual products for women in girls in need of period supplies.

“Look at the Affordable Care Act as a healthcare ‘bill of rights,’” Thompson said. “Know and understand, friends, the current administration is doing everything to undermine and weaken and destroy the Affordable Care Act.”

Continued from A1 should have gone to her.

She also opposed the “rushed” emergency meeting – saying that municipal guidelines that Page led the council to repeal in February called for a slower selection process – as well as the council not allowing public comment.

“Our county has been through a traumatic experience today,” Erby said. “My heart goes out to our citizens and our former county executive as well. This has not been a joy to me. This has been sad. I think that our county citizens should be able to weigh in on this.”

African-American elected officials in North County who form the Fannie Lou Hamer Democratic Coalition got up and left the meeting, after

She also asked everyone to support congressional bill HB 676 – Medicare for All. The Stellar Performer in Health Care Award was presented to Rick Stevens, president of Christian Hospital. In his three years at the helm, the hospital has undertaken $60 million in new construction, technology, lobby and floor renovations with private rooms

calling it a “sham” and “against the Democratic process.”

When asked about the pushback from the AfricanAmerican leaders, Page said that it was the council’s decision.

“Hazel has always been a very close friend of mine, probably my closest friend on the council, and it’s difficult to be in a position where we have a different opinion,” Page said.

“It’s a rare event. I do believe I have a record to stand on for working for the residents of North County, and I hope to expand on that.”

That record includes supporting Erby’s bill for minority participation in county construction contracting and procurement, as well as fighting against Stenger on his controversial plans for Jamestown Mall. Page supported efforts from the St. Louis County Health

for patients and a new Siteman Cancer Center facility in North County being built next to Northwest Healthcare on Graham Road.

“This is a Christian Hospital award. This is for the 2,000 people who work here every day, the executive team that support me every day, the hospital board, the foundation board, the BJC board,” Stevens said. “And this is also for the community. This is their award.”

Under Stevens’ leadership, the hospital joined with the Salvation Army in a $1 million

Department and U.S. Army Corps to accelerate cleanup of Coldwater Creek and West Lake Landfill. He also has opposed efforts to disenfranchise county voters in the Better Together proposal.

“I think we’ll see a new commitment to the county executive’s office to work on the issues important to North County, and I expect Hazel to be my partner in that,” Page said.

grant to add community health workers in the Ferguson area. Additionally, funding from the Christian Hospital Foundation allowed the Hazelwood and Riverview Gardens school districts to open school-based health clinics for students.

The 2019 Health Advocacy Organization of the Year Award was presented to the St. Louis Area Diaper Bank, which supplies donated and wholesale purchased diapers to organizations to distribute families in need.

“You can’t buy diapers with food stamps, you can’t

Page said he will transition into a leave of absence from his medical practice as an anesthesiologist over the next few weeks.

Resignations and replacement of key staff members have already begun.

Page announced Winston Calvert, former city counselor under Mayor Francis G. Slay, as his chief of staff. Garry Earls is also coming out of retirement as an interim chief

The St. Louis County Children’s Service Fund Dr. John M. Anderson Excellence in Mental Health Award was presented by fund board member William Douthit to Cynthia Rogers, M.D., associate professor of psychiatry and pediatrics in the division of Child Psychiatry at Washington University. She is director of the Perinatal and Behavioral Health Service, which serves postpartum women with psychiatric and substance use disorders who receive care at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and who have infants in the St. Louis Children’s Hospital Neonatal and Cardiac Intensive Care Units. Rogers also leads a NICU Behavioral Health Clinic, a teaching consultation clinic for young children with early developmental and socialemotional delays who were born prematurely. She said to improve child mental health you have to improve parental mental health.

“We are providing education around mental health, particularly perinatal mental

operating officer to help with the transition.

Page said another priority is to set up processes to prevent anyone in the county executive seat from influencing government decisions in exchange for a campaign contribution. In the next few weeks, he said he will lay out his policy initiatives on this.

Page said his first priority will be to replace the board members on the St. Louis

health, to reduce the stigma around accessing care, which is still so common in the AfricanAmerican community,” Rogers said. That includes advocating for improved access to care in with state lawmakers in Jefferson City to extend pregnancy Medicaid for a longer period of time. The St. Louis American Foundation also recognized eight health professionals as Excellence in Health Care Awardees: Cristal Brown, a speech therapist at Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital; Renee Foote, chief compliance office at CareSTL Health; Stephanie Hester, nurse manager at Barnes-Jewish Hospital; Jacquelyn McFadden, M.D., an internal and family medicine physician at Betty Jean Kerr People’s Health Centers; Chontay McKay, a family nurse practitioner at iFM Community Medicine; April Tyus-Myles, M.D., pediatrician at SSM Medical Group; Patrice L. Pye, clinical psychologist and behavioral health consultant at Family Care Centers; and Beverly Van Buren, a registered nurse at SSM Saint Louis University Hospital. Proceeds from each Salute to Excellence awards program goes to facilitating scholarships for young people, which totals over $6 million since 1994. Additionally, a partnership between the St. Louis American Foundation, Deaconess Foundation and the Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis provides $125,000 in nursing scholarships annual to local students pursuing their RN or BSN degree.

Economic Development Partnership. The county’s development arm, led by a Steve Stenger appointee, was named in the 44-page indictment of the former county executive as being a vehicle for his alleged pay-to-play schemes.

“Unfortunately,” Page said, “because of the state of the partnership, we’re stalled.”

Lifetime Achiever Zenobia Thompson with friends at the St. Louis American Foundation’s 2019 Salute to Excellence in Health Care awards luncheon on Friday, April 26.

Photo by Wiley Price

Salute to Excellence in Health Awards & Networking Luncheon

The St. Louis American Foundation hosted its 19th Annual Salute to Excellence in Health Care Awards Luncheon last week at the Hilton St. Louis Frontenac. Centene Charitable Foundation and Home State Health served as the luncheon’s presenting sponsors. This year’s awardees included: Lifetime Achiever in Health Care Zenobia Thompson, RN, Stellar Performer in Health Care Rick Stevens. FACHE, Excellence in Mental Health awardee Cynthia Rogers, MD and the Health Advocacy Organization of the Year for St. Louis Area Diaper Bank. The 2019 Excellence in Health Care Awards were presented to: Cristal Brown, M.A., CCC-SLP, Renée Foote, Stephanie A. Hester, RN, BSN. Jacquelyn Renee McFadden, MD, Chontay McKay, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, April Tyus-Myles MD, Patrice L. Pye, Ph.D and Beverly Van Buren, RN.

Sharon Deans, on behalf of presenting sponsors Centene Charitable Foundation and Home State Health, welcomed guests.

Stephen Sanders, Chontay McKay, Sharon Neummeister, Dr. Dave Campbell, Pamela Simmons and Lathon Ferguson

Lifetime Achiever Zenobia Thompson with Lew Moye and Jay Ozier

Colleagues and supporters of awardee Cynthia Rogers

William Douthit presented the Excellence in Mental Health award to Cynthia Rogers, MD

Harry Ratliff, Kelvin Westbrook, awardee Rick Stevens, and Bob Fox

Children’s Hospital attendees and guests

Emcee Carol Daniel presents the Health Advocacy Organization of the Year award to Jessica Adams, representing St. Louis Area Diaper Bank.

Stellar Performer Rick Stevens of Christian Hospital and Carol Daniel

All photos by Wiley Price

The 2019 Excellence in Health Care awardees (left to right): Chontay McKay, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, Beverly Van Buren, RN, Mattaniah Foggy accepting on behalf of her sister, Patrice L. Pye, Ph.D, April Tyus-Myles MD, Jacquelyn Renee McFadden, MD, Stephanie A. Hester, RN, BSN, Renée Foote, Cristal Brown, M.A., CCC-SLP

Carol Daniel presents the Lifetime Achiever award to Zenobia Thompson.

Soldiers Memorial observes Memorial Day

Military Museum partners with Greenwood Cemetery in Return to Honor

By Kristie Lein For The St. Louis American

From 1861 to 1865 the Civil War ravaged the United States and left more than 600,000 soldiers dead.

In Charleston, South Carolina, some 250 Union soldiers died in a Confederate prison camp and were buried in a mass grave. To pay honor to the thousands of Union dead who fought to preserve the United States and defeat slavery, formerly enslaved men dug up the Union soldiers’ bodies that had been discarded at the camp and gave them proper burials at a new site.

Then on May 1, 1865, more than 10,000 African Americans – workmen, freed slaves, members of the US Colored Troops, schoolchildren and others – held a parade celebrating the lives of these men.

“This was the first large-scale celebration and remembrance of soldiers who gave their lives for this country,” says Marvin-Alonzo Greer, the Visitor & Experience lead at the Soldiers Memorial Military Museum.

Greer points out that although the remembrance that took place in Charleston more than 150 years ago is not directly associated with the Memorial Day of today, it was still a historically significant event—particularly for African Americans.

“While most white Unionists viewed the war initially as a war to preserve the Union, it was the black community in the North and the South that kept up the steady drumbeat of freedom and citizenship,” Greer says.

“The black community knew this war would redefine America and what it meant to be American. The Memorial Day of Charleston remains an important symbol of the reimagining of American society, from a nation that began by declaring that all men are created equal –except for certain classes—to a country where minorities can hold public office and even ascend to the presidency. If not for the victory over slavery, America would have looked much different. In an era of inequality it was black Americans who stood by the flag, the US Constitution and the founding ideals of America – even when the country did not stand by them.”

Cemetery for Return to Honor, a day of service to commemorate ancestors who made the ultimate sacrifice. Helpers will clear brush, mow grass, and clean the front burial section of Greenwood Cemetery. Participants should wear comfortable clothes and shoes and are encouraged to bring yard tools to assist in the cleanup (though a limited amount of supplies will be available).

Union General John A. Logan is said to have founded the modern Memorial Day. He established Decoration Day in 1868 to clean and decorate the graves of fallen Union soldiers. The Grand Army of the Republic, the first large veterans’ organization, traditionally led these public ceremonies. It was 1966 before President Lyndon B. Johnson authorized an official national holiday. Nonetheless, Greer says, both celebrations are closely tied to each other.

“The ceremonies are linked to honor and clean the graves of Union veterans of the Civil War,” Greer says. “Memorial Day should not be linked solely to one day or one month.”

Memorial Day is an important holiday, even for people who are not veterans themselves or do not have veteran relatives. According to

“This partnership with Greenwood Cemetery helps remember an event of over 150 years ago by cleaning the graves of those fallen service people and taking the time to pause and remember those who sacrificed for us both on and off the battlefield,” Greer says.

“Greenwood is the perfect partner. It is the home of members of the armed forces and civilians who were prominent activists in helping make America a more perfect Union.”

Return to Honor takes place on Saturday, May 18, from noon to 4 p.m. at Greenwood Cemetery, 6571 St. Louis Ave., Hillsdale, 63121. Lunch and water will be provided for volunteers. The event is free and open to the public.

Kristie Lein is an editor at the Missouri Historical Society.

Mobile farmer’s market visits Lewis & Clark Branch

Every Thursday from 2-4 p.m. starting on May 2

Starting on Thursday, May 2, St. Louis MetroMarket will visit the Lewis & Clark Branch of the St. Louis County Library every Thursday from 2-4 p.m. offering fresh, affordable produce, along with recipe ideas and meal planning assistance.

The kick-off event on Thursday, May 2 will feature cooking demonstrations by Red Circle, including a make-your-own salad bar; a chance to win $500 vouchers from MissouriCare; and a visit from the People’s Health Center mobile clinic, which provides free insurance education, blood pressure screenings, eye exams and behavioral health information.

According to the Missouri Coalition for the

By Sandra Jordan Of The St. Louis American

The Community Academic Partnership on Addiction Clinic of the Brown School

Environment, over 700,000 people across the Metro St. Louis region are low income and do not have access to fresh food within a half mile of home.

By Cory Mitchell For The St. Louis American

Last year the Lewis & Clark Branch was the busiest stop for St. Louis MetroMarket, which visits locations throughout St. Louis County and city. More than 3,500 people were fed by the 8,500 pounds of fresh food sold at the branch in 2018.

n I once had a client tell me as a black man he is not allowed to be complicated. There are two moods – mad and sad. That’s stress in and of itself.

“We’re happy to partner with St. Louis MetroMarket to address food insecurity in our region,” Library Director Kristen Sorth said.

“Visits by the MetroMarket will be a convenient way for individuals and families to pick-up healthy food after their visit to the library. Parents can pick up books and other library materials, then visit the mobile grocery store to buy healthy produce and get

See MARKET, A11

I didn’t know Michael Brown personally, but I knew of Michael Brown. I went to high school with his mother and uncle. I worked with kids from the St. Louis County Juvenile Justice system from 2005-2014 as an Adolescent Care Specialist lead, and some of them knew Michael Brown. They were like my people, and my people knew his people. Months after he was killed, I watched and felt pained as the no true bill was announced. I was hurt by the plainsight injustice of it all and further pained for the people that cared about Michael. There was a triple screen on CNN, one of President Obama speaking, and two of my city on fire. Within a week, I was no longer working with young people exclusively. I moved to a new career, away from foster care case management and into adult social work. After two months working for the St. Charles Housing Authority, I moved to a community support specialist position at BJC Behavioral Health in January 2015. I wanted to be in the neighborhoods of St. Louis, serving and helping on the frontlines. On day one, my supervisor told me the reality of my new position: “You’ll learn a lot about a lot of systems, and you’ll help people navigate them to get their needs met.” Systems theory was important to her: the way people are connected and how shared experiences affect populations as a whole. Helping people identify and meet their needs is important to me and what I try to do now. I was born and raised in St. Louis. My parents moved from North City to the county when I was two months old. A local musician

Bringing science to service

Collaborators run the ribbon on the addition of the CAPA clinic to combat substance abuse in St. Louis on Tuesday, April 23: Mary McKay, dean of the Brown School at Washington University; Cori Putz, executive vice president, Preferred Family Healthcare; Ann Hutton, PFH senior executive vice president; Michael Morrison, former CEO, Bridgeway Behavioral Healthcare; David Patterson Silver Wolf, associate professor, Brown School at Washington University; Paula Brawner, PFH executive vice president; and Michael Bloodworth, PFH regional director.

Cory Mitchell

Photo by Wiley Price

MARKET

Continued from A10

recipe ideas. Helping patrons access healthy food options contributes to the overall success and well-being of our communities.”

The partnership with St. Louis MetroMarket compliments other efforts

by SLCL to combat food insecurity – including the free summer lunch program, which starts June 3 at nine branches.

St. Louis MetroMarket is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit mobile farmers’ market whose goal is to restore access to healthy, affordable food to St. Louis City food deserts. Launched in 2013, the organization converted

a donated city bus into a grocery store on wheels with a goal of bridging the physical, financial, and educational barriers in food deserts by supplying healthy foods in low-income, high need communities.

The Lewis & Clark Branch is located at 9909 Lewis-Clark Blvd in Moline Acres.

Dr. Samuel Achilefu to be honored by African Diaspora Council

American staff

Dr. Samuel Achilefu, a professor of Radiology at Washington University Medical School, will receive the inaugural African Diaspora Council Distinguished African Leader award by the African Diaspora Council on May 11. Dr. Achilefu will be recognized for his groundbreaking research on treatment for cancer. He and his team figured out a way to use ultraviolet light and an illuminating agent to identify cancer cells from normal, healthy cells by using his invention, “cancer goggles.” In the latest prototype, the goggles have slimmed down to become eyeglasses, with transparent data screens in the lenses.

He the first recipient of the Breast Cancer Research Program Distinguished Investigator Award, a $4.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Defense. The St. Louis American Foundation also recognized him at its 2017 Salute to Excellence in Healthcare. Achilefu earned a PhD in molecular physical and materials chemistry at the University of Nancy, France. His postdoctoral training is in

oxygen transport mechanisms at Oxford University, UK. The Nigeria native came to St. Louis to work for Mallinckrodt Medical and joined the Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology at Washington University in 2001. The globally celebrated professor from Nigeria will give a presentation on his body of work after receiving his award at the home of the African Diaspora Council at 1425 Ferguson St. The African Diaspora Council is an organization of African professionals living in the greater St. Louis area. For additional information, contact Michael Kodjo AnaniZoglo, CEO of the African Diaspora Council, at anani@ africandiasporacouncil.org or 347-932-2418.

Deaths in county jail to be investigated

New director Lt. Col. Troy Doyle seeks ‘unbiased opinion about what’s going on’

By Rachel Lippmann Of St. Louis Public Radio

The new interim head of the St. Louis County jail wants to bring in an outsider to help figure out why three inmates have died in custody since January.

“I want an unbiased opinion about what’s going on at the jail,” Lt. Col. Troy Doyle told reporters Tuesday, April 23 after a meeting of the St. Louis County Council. “I work for St. Louis County and county government, but I think that would be reassuring to not only the workers there but the families.”

County Executive Steve Stenger named Doyle — who is also the commander of the St. Louis County Police Division of Special Operations — to lead the Department of Justice Services on April 22. Julia Childrey, who had been interim head since January 2018, will return to her role as the superintendent of operations for justice services. Doyle said the audit would help him determine whether policies and procedures were followed or if they need to be changed.

CAPA

Continued from A10

nurses, as well as a full clinical staff of counselors, community support specialists and peer support program.

“We routinely admit up to eight consumers per day who have overdosed within the past 24 hours and were outreached through the EPIC project, on top of our already scheduled detox and outpatient admissions,” said Michael Bloodworth, site director for Preferred Family Healthcare (PFH). Adult substance use services are operated by Bridgeway Behavioral Health, while PFH operates adolescent substance use services. PFH also offers employment and housing assistance at that location. The CAPA clinic adds

MALES

Continued from A10

who grew up on the block I was born on once said to me that my parents saved my life. Excuses weren’t a part of my upbringing, and mistakes were most often due to my own choices and failings. It wasn’t complicated: go to school, get an education. College at Saint Louis University was the same. I enjoyed the required 18 hours of theology and philosophy coursework as part of the Jesuit education more than most

“I’m looking forward to trying to find those things out,” he said.

Childrey was interim director when the three men, including Lamar Catchings, died. On April 23, Catchings’ mother, Tashonda Troupe, told the County Council that

interns for teaching, learning and research for master and doctoral students from Wash. U. studying for careers in addiction treatment. Five to six interns will participate in the program each semester, with each intern completing up to one academic year in the program.

Michael Morrison, former CEO of Bridgeway Behavioral Healthcare, said in order to help clients engage in treatment, there must be an understanding about addiction: how people who have substance use disorders think and feel, why they do the things they do, and how to present options and tools to them.

“And that’s what CAPA is really about,” Morrison said.

“You can teach students what science says in a classroom, but you can’t really teach students how to apply what

coursework. Those classes made the world seem bigger and made you really think. They made you expound on ideas and connect thoughts to action. I didn’t choose social work, but I did choose to work in the greater St. Louis community once social work chose me. Since September 2018 I have worked for BJC Behavioral Health as a senior community support specialist. Our project is called emergency room enhancement. The team I am a part of is interagency, and the skill set crosses disciplines and systems in

Childrey should have been fired.

“She returned to her old, cushy job, still not caring what happened under her watch. Our sons cannot return home to us. They are gone forever, and that’s exactly where Julia needs to be,” Troupe said.

science says in a classroom.

As far as I know, this is the first and only clinic integrating social work students in a substance use treatment program.”

The Brown School dean praised Preferred Family Healthcare for its enduring commitment to support clients to reach their full potential.

Councilwoman Hazel Erby, D-University City, told Troupe that she agreed with her.

“But the problem is, we are limited at what we can do,” Erby said. “We didn’t hire Ms. Childrey; we didn’t reappoint Ms. Childrey.” Erby and Troupe both

n “You can teach students what science says in a classroom, but you can’t really teach students how to apply what science says in a classroom.”

“Although at the Brown School, we are trying to educate students in social work and in public health and in social policy – it will be you who will be the true educators,” said Mary McKay, dean of the Brown School at Washington University. “It will be you who share your

– Michael Morrison

wisdom, offer support to our students here, and we are really humbled by this partnership and commit to being a good partner.”

Bloodworth, the site director, described the CAPA clinic as “a joint commitment to developing the best professionals this field has to offer by exposing these students to the entire scope of services this facility provides. This will, in turn, create professionals that are more prepared to combat the opioid epidemic as well as other challenges our consumers face.”

Since the 1950s, not much has changed in addiction

order to best serve our clients, most of whom are AfricanAmerican males. Traditionally, this demographic group is underserved in managing mental health concerns and diagnosis, and lacking in resources to treat said concerns.

I once had a client tell me as a black man he is not allowed to be complicated. There are two moods – mad and sad. That’s stress in and of itself. Post-traumatic stress disorder, substance use disorder, unemployment, and economic stressors disproportionately affect the African-American community, especially in

St. Louis. Discriminatory housing policies ended only a generation ago still have impact to this day. In my job, it is important that I try to meet people where they are, literally and figuratively, and respond to needs.

I am charged with going into the hospital, meeting and assessing people at their most vulnerable in these most urgent times, and giving hope where there may be none. I keep things in perspective, measured and short. In chaos there is opportunity, and for people that look like me I feel a special chance to walk with them, side by side, to a goal, a

Tashonda Troupe, whose son Lamar Catchings died in the St. Louis County jail in March, addressed the St. Louis County Council on Tuesday, April 23. Troupe said she was disappointed that the former head of the jail would remain employed by the county.

called Doyle’s appointment an important step.

“I know him. I have faith in him. He’s trustworthy,” Erby said of Doyle. “I’m optimistic, and I feel good about that.”

The council is also investigating the deaths of Catchings and the other two

recovery, said David Patterson Silver Wolf, associate professor at the Brown School and chief research officer for the program.

“It is time we up our game,” he said. “It is a sad time here now with the opioid epidemic, but it is the right time now to do something different and continue to take risk. It’s going to take innovation, it’s going to take getting out of our comfort zones, using technology, performance-based practice, understanding how people recover in the clinic, in the community, how we perform as professionals.”

The CAPA clinic manifests the idea that they could bring all of those things together to try something new and something different.

Cori Putz, executive vice president of Preferred Family Healthcare, said having the Brown School clinic at its

better tomorrow, a hope for a successful ending. My viewpoint is always looking in the margins, and offering a hand up not a handout. Teach mobility, enable change, or connect people to someone who can. I am paying the chance afforded me forward to the people I serve, especially the black males I work with who have been boxed in, boxed out, marginalized, and pushed to the side. I owe that to them, and they need support like I did.

Cory Mitchell is a graduate of Saint Louis University

men. Erby said they have been stonewalled by Stenger, who was not at the council meeting. His office declined to explain the decision to appoint Doyle as the interim head of the jail or the decision to retain Childrey. Doyle said he had not made a decision about Childrey’s future employment with the department. He said he wanted to talk to corrections officers, staff and inmates first. He said he had met with Catchings’ family and planned to arrange meetings with the families of the other two men, Larry “Jay” Reavis and John M. Shy. Follow Rachel on Twitter: @ rlippmann. Reprinted with permission from news.stlpublicradio.org.

Dunnica site will further close the gap between bringing science to service.

“The CAPA Clinic creates opportunities for social work students to gain knowledge and experience in treating the disease of addiction,” Putz stated. “Our hope is that the experience of treating individuals suffering from addiction will contribute to reducing stigma associated with addiction as well as create future employment opportunities for these individuals, growing the substance use disorder treatment workforce.”

For more information regarding CAPA clinic services, call Bridgeway Behavioral Health at Preferred Family Healthcare at 636224-1000.The clinic accepts insurance, Medicaid, self-pay and state funding.

and currently serves as a senior Community Support specialist with Barnes Jewish Central Behavioral Health, part of Emergency Room Enhancement Project.

“Homegrown Black Males” is a partnership between HomeGrown STL at the Brown School of Social Work at Washington University in St. Louis and The St. Louis American, edited by Sean Joe, Benjamin E. Youngdahl Professor and associate dean at the Brown School, and Chris King, managing editor of The American, in memory of Michael Brown.

Dr. Samuel Achilefu

Photo by Rachel Lippmann / St. Louis Public Radio

MAYNational Fitness Month!

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with fun and healthy snacks and dinner. Just substitute a few healthy options for the normal celebration foods.

>Substitute whole wheat tortillas for white tortillas.

>Make your own baked tortilla chips instead of using fried chips.

Five Areas of Fitness

Healthy Kids Kids

>Use grilled chicken instead of higher-fat hamburger.

>Use low-fat shredded cheese whenever possible.

>Make your own salsa (see recipe below) instead of

Cardiovascular Endurance — Aerobic activities (increasing your heart rate and breathing for at least 20 minutes) help improve your heart health and endurance.

Muscle Strength — We improve our muscle strength by making them work harder. This is accomplished by slowly increasing the amount of weight/resistance you lift or press.

May 6th is National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day. As a class, discuss what you think are important areas of mental health. Today we’ll focus on stress management. This means that we’ll consider ways to relieve the stress in our lives. Individually, make a list

buying high-sugar salsa from the store.

>Use high-fiber black beans instead of white rice in your recipes.

>Use plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

Learning Standards: HPE 2, HPE 5, HPE 6, NH 1, NH 2

Muscle Endurance — Your ability to continue a physical activity for longer periods of time (such as running, cycling, sit-ups, etc.) builds your muscle endurance.

Flexibility — Stretching and bending helps to increase your body’s flexibility.

Body Composition — The ratio of fat and muscle in your body makes up your body composition. Remembering to focus on the other four areas of physical fitness will improve your composition, and overall health!

Learning Standards: HPE 1, HPE 2, HPE 4, HPE 5, NH 1, NH 5

of four things that cause you stress. Again as a class, talk about different methods for stress relief: Time management, coping, speaking with trusted adults, exercising, journaling, etc. Now looking at your stressors list, what of these relievers might help?

Learning Standards: HPE 2, NH 1

Where do you work?

I am the owner and director of My Blooming Health Mobile Lab.

Where did you go to school? I graduated from Alton High School. I then earned an associate’s degree in nursing from Lewis and Clark Community College in Godfrey, Illinois, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from McKendree University in Lebanon, Illinois, and a Master of Business Administration from Webster University, St. Louis.

What does a Mobile Health Lab nurse do? We help people by bringing their lab work needs to their home, such as blood draws and drug screens. It’s a convenience for the sick or for those who are just busy.

Why did you choose this career? Healthcare and nursing is my first joy. Disease and illness is so prevalent in our community due to lack of knowledge and resources. I just feel it’s my purpose to be available to help others make better health decisions.

What is your favorite part of the job you have? I enjoy being available to help people make decisions to improve their health. As a nurse, I have a variety of options of being available to people. I love health fairs where I can talk to random people and encourage them. And in the field where I have some knowledge of their health issues already, I can be available to watch them improve over time. To know that I was a part of their improvement is the only reward I need.

Learning Standards: HPE6, NH3

“Questions or comments? Contact Cathy Sewell csewell@stlamerican.com or 314-289-5422

Danita Smith, ADN, BSN

Questions or comments? Contact Cathy Sewell csewell@stlamerican.com or 314-289-5422

CLASSROOM SPOTLIGHT

Jennings High School science teacher Marty Warren shows students Jimmy McFan, Mia Holmes, Jordan Thompson and Branden Woodruff how to do an entomological experiment, an extension of a STEM lesson found using the newspaper.

Photo by Wiley Price/ St. Louis American.

Bacteria Are Everywhere!

Bacteria are everywhere! They are the smallest living organism on Earth and they are made of only one cell. That cell is surrounded by a cell wall to protect it. Some bacteria have hairs called pili, and some bacteria have long threads called flagella. Bacteria are divided into three groups, depending on their shape. Cocci bacteria are round, bacilli bacteria are straight, and spiral bacteria have a corkscrew shape. Bacteria live in colonies and can reproduce very quickly, about once every 20 minutes.

Some bacteria cause disease, like tuberculosis, tooth decay, salmonella, E. coli, cholera, and many more. However, bacteria can also be helpful. An example of helpful bacteria is the bacteria found in yogurt and cheese. This helps our stomach process food. Bacteria can also be used to create some types of medicine. To learn more interesting facts about bacteria, read the “Did You Know” section (below).

Learning Standards: I can read nonfiction text for main idea and supporting details.

STARS

African -American Inventor and Engineer Emmett Chappelle

Emmett W. Chappelle was born in Phoenix, Arizona, on October 24, 1925. He grew up on a small farm and helped his family raise cotton and take care of cows. In 1942, Chappelle graduated from Phoenix Union Colored High School. After graduation, he was drafted into the army. He was able to take some engineering courses when he was assigned to the Army Specialized Training Program. Later, he was sent to Italy with the All-Black 92nd Infantry Division. Upon his return to the US, Chappelle earned his associate’s degree from Phoenix College, then used his GI Bill of Rights to receive his bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of California, in 1950.

SCIENCE INVESTIGATION Create a Light Box!

Background Information:

In this experiment, you will learn about attributes of light.

Materials Needed:

• 4 Plastic Clean Bottles (such as 16-20 ounce water/soda bottles) • Water • Tape

• Scissors • Large Cardboard Box • Food Coloring • Foil • Plastic Cups (to fit over bottles) • Note Book

Process:

q Fill the bottles with water. Add food coloring to three of the bottles.

w Trace the bottom of the bottles on the top of the box and cut 4 holes.

e Put tin foil on the top of the box to help light reflect into the bottles.

r Cut a hole in the side of the box to look inside.

MATH CONNECTION

In today’s biography, you learned about a method that helped make water safe to drink. Water is a liquid that is measured in ounces, cups, pints, etc. Use this chart to answer the following questions.

8 oz = 1 cup 2 cups = 1 pint

4 cups = 1 quart

8 cups = 1/2 gallon 16

t Push the bottles into the 4 holes. The top of the bottle will still be above the top of the box. Cover the tops of the bottles with a cup.

y Look through the side of the box and observe how the light looks as it moves through the different colors. Record your findings in the notebook.

Reflect: Which colors tend to absorb light? How do the light rays bend and expand as the sun shines? For more information, read about light refraction.

For A Light Refraction Video, Visit: http://www. dailymotion.com/video/x2rvd3j.

Learning Standards: I can follow sequential directions to complete an experiment. I can make deductions and draw conclusions.

From 1950 to 1953, Chappelle worked as an instructor at Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee, where he also conducted research. The University of Washington offered him an opportunity to continue his research with them while he earned a master’s degree in biology. Chappelle was an eager student and he continued taking graduate classes at Stanford University. From there, Chappelle went to Baltimore to join the Research Institute for Advanced Studies. He worked on creating a safe oxygen supply for astronauts. He also worked for Hazelton Laboratories and joined NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center. His research focused on the study of luminescence (light without heat). He used chemicals from fireflies as part of his method of detecting life on Mars. This method of using light created by living organisms is called bioluminescence. Chappelle used this method to detect bacteria in water.

In 2001, Chappelle retired from NASA. He has fourteen patents, and has written more than 35 scientific publications. He has been honored as one of the top 100 African-American scientists and engineers, has received an Exceptional Scientific Achievement Medal from NASA, and was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame, in 2007. Learning Standards: I can read a biography about a person who has made contributions in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math.

x Elizabeth bought a ½ gallon of lemonade for her birthday party. She has 5 guests. If each guest is given 1 cup of lemonade, how many cups of lemonade will be left?

c Steven chose a gallon of milk at the store. If he uses 2 cups of milk for a

z Water is essential for good health. You should drink 8-10 cups of water per day. If you drank 8 cups of water, how many ounces of water did you drink?______ How many pints of water did you drink? ______ How many quarts of water did you drink? ______ How many gallons of water did you drink?

DID YOU KNOW?

There is an average of 4 pounds of bacteria in a human body.

recipe and drinks 2 cups of milk, how many quarts of milk does he have left?

v How many ounces of fluid are in one pint? ______

b If you have a 16-ounce sports drink, how many pints do you have?

Learning Standards: I can use addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division to solve a word problem. I can covert units of liquid measurement.

MAP CORNER

Enjoy these activities that help you get to know your St. Louis American newspaper.

Activity One Numbers in the newspaper can be written a variety of ways. Can you find an example of a numeral, a number written as a word, a decimal, a percentage, a fraction, a roman numeral? Can you find an example of a metric number? Explain how the numbers were used in the newspaper.

Activity Two — Circle 12 words in the newspaper that begin with a capital letter. Discuss why each word begins with a capital letter. Then, identify which of those words are proper nouns. Divide the proper nouns into categories of person, place, thing, or idea.

Learning Standards: I can use the newspaper to locate information. I can identify the purpose of capitalization and classify information.

American’s

‘PR rehab’ for county after Ferguson was no-bid, no-work Stenger contract

August 4, 2015. It was just days before the one-year anniversary of Michael Brown’s shooting death at the hands of a Ferguson Police officer. Dozens of activists and clergy members would be arrested on that anniversary for shutting down highways and protesting the unwillingness of St. Louis leadership to address the region’s inequities.

On that day, John Rallo, owner of Cardinal Insurance, sent a message to then-County Executive Steve Stenger –according to a 44-page federal indictment charging Stenger with bribery, mail fraud and theft of honest services that was unsealed on April 29; Stenger pled not guilty.

get Rallo a consulting contract, it states.

Rallo, a white man with no public-relations experience, was going to “do PR rehab for the county” after the Ferguson unrest. Rallo created a company for the contract called Cardinal Consulting. In the end, Rallo landed a $130,000 contract through the St. Louis County Port Authority for six months of work. According to the indictment, Rallo and his company “did no actual work under the consulting agreement.”

Rallo: “Who should I be reaching out to re: the consulting?”

Since October 2014, Rallo had been part of Stenger’s “trustee program,” meaning individuals who donated $10,000 to his campaign every year. But Rallo had yet to see any return on his investment. Rallo’s insurance company hadn’t landed the contract with the county that Stenger had all but promised him, according to the indictment. So, Rallo and Stenger came up with a plan to

Rallo was required to submit monthly reports to the general counsel of the St. Louis Economic Development Partnership detailing the work his firm had done. However, it states,

“Rallo simply made up false information to include in each of those monthly reports.”

But Rallo was not the only trustee who got paid for the post-Ferguson scam. The contract amount was originally supposed to be for $100,000, but Sheila Sweeney, then-CEO of the St. Louis Economic Development Partnership, increased the amount to $130,000 because Stenger told her someone else needed to get paid. Sweeney was Stenger’s

appointee. The additional $30,000 was meant to go to a person referred to in the indictment as “JC,” a close associate of a public official who had helped Stenger get out the vote in the November 2014 county executive election.

“Stenger’s direction to hire JC or give JC a contract was payback for that,” the indictment stated. “Sweeney determined that paying JC through the Rallo contract would meet Stenger’s directive.”

Sweeney then told Rallo he had to pay JC $30,000 when he got the contract. Rallo had never met JC but understood from Sweeney that “JC would not do any actual work under the consulting contract,” it states.

In July 2016, Rallo received the consulting agreement for $130,000. Sweeney did not report to the Port Authority board that she had increased the contract amount until December 2016, when the Port Authority’s general counsel took notice. And the board never approved the increase, the indictment states.

JC ultimately got $25,000, and Rallo paid $12,000 to another trustee and close friend identified as “SW,” as a reward for introducing Rallo to Stenger, it states. The entire contract was

supposed to revolve around former TV personality Montel Williams being the spokesman for the “PR rehab” effort. In a statement to the St. Louis PostDispatch, Williams said he was paid less than $10,000.

The Post-Dispatch reported, “All that the St. Louis Economic Development Partnership, which staffs the Port Authority, could point to in terms of results from the contract was a commentary on

NBC.com written by Williams that mentions Ferguson in the seventh paragraph and misspells Stenger’s name. In his statement, Williams’ agent takes responsibility for the spelling mistake.”

What could the region have done with $130,000 in 2016?

While thousands of people had been in the streets, trying to get Stenger’s attention after Ferguson on the region’s horrors and inequities, Stenger

conventions mean business

Each year America’s Center welcomes 600,000 convention attendees from around the world supporting the jobs of 3,340 St. Louisans. On behalf of the entire hospitality community, we thank our elected officials in St. Louis City and St. Louis County for voting to approve the expansion and improvements of America’s Center.

To learn more about the AC Next Gen project and why conventions are vital to the St. Louis region, visit conventionsmeanbusiness.com.

was busy sending text messages and emails and making phone calls to ensure that the people who were donating to his campaign were getting county dollars. Long conversations like this were documented in the indictment.

“This money was given at a critical time,” said Rev. Darryl Gray, a Black Lives Matter activist and leader of the Missouri Democratic Party Progressive Caucus. “You have to ask the question: how much has changed? What damage did it cause this region, as it relates to race relations?”

On April 30, less than a day after Interim St. Louis County Executive Sam Page had replaced Stenger, The American asked Page if there is any way to give that $130,000 from the post-Ferguson scam back to the community? He responded, “St. Louis really has an unfortunate legacy of poor race relations. I couldn’t tell you in an hour what all contributes to that. There are incredible disparities in employment, poverty and education. And all of those have to be addressed in job opportunities and opportunities for training.”

He explained that the St. Louis County Economic Partnership can impact some of these opportunities. The Port Authority has funds from the lease of the casino in South County that are now available by law to be spent, he said.

“I think some of the funds could be spent in North County,” Page said. “I would look to the elected leadership in North County to help identify some of those opportunities and the Clergy Coalition. There are a lot of good community groups that have a lot of credibility in this space, and I need to get busy and start meeting with them.”

The EYE will be watching to make sure Page’s promises are met.

Cutting

some ‘Slack’ Page’s promise calls to mind Annette Slack – the woman whom Stenger hired to address the community’s needs and concerns after Ferguson.

Slack was the former executive director for St. Louis County’s Office of Community Empowerment and Diversity Program Manager. These were programs that Stenger touted as his impressive response to Ferguson. When Slack was hired on April 5, 2015, she was told that she would have “the power and authority to implement programs that benefited African Americans in the community.”

“That representation turned out to be false,” according to the May 2016 lawsuit Slack filed against the county government for “retaliatory termination” and defamation.

When she started her job, she discovered that her department was “allocated little or no budget,” Slack’s lawsuit states.

On February 28, 2016, Stenger dismissed Slack, who was also responsible for facilitating and overseeing the county’s disparity study. The study was meant to analyze the number of minority businesses in the region and help establish fair goals for employing minorities on government contracts. Slack’s attorney said she was dismissed for questioning why the county was not moving forward on the study – an action that the African-American community had long been pushing for.

Slack told The American she had no idea her dismissal was coming. She said Stenger’s team came to her at 4 p.m. on a Monday and told her she had been using her computer to grade her students’ tests. (Slack was teaching a night class one day a week.)

Slack had overheard Shannon Weber, Stenger’s legislative affairs coordinator (who was also named in Stenger’s indictment), in the hallway outside of her office “graphically expressing her displeasure with having to conduct” the disparity study, the lawsuit states.

County Counselor Peter Krane wrote a two-sentence letter on November 13, 2018 as part of the lawsuit resolution process, clearing Slack’s name – saying she wasn’t fired for “theft of county funds.” That’s it. That was the resolution.

Photo by Wiley Price

Former County Executive Steve Stenger made that long walk to his arraignment on federal corruption charges with his attorney Scott Rosenblum on Monday, April 29.

Electrical Connection: A true partner in career development

By Jim Curran and Dennis Gralike

For The St. Louis American

A job is good, but a career can inspire greater possibilities and the passion to achieve them. Such was the case for Sabrina Westfall, who 20 years ago began her fulfillment journey for what she was truly passionate about – construction that shapes our world. She began learning all she could about the industry, aligning herself with valuable resources. She found one such resource in the Electrical Connection, which unites the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 1 and the St. Louis Chapter of the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA). IBEW/ NECA creates careers in the electrical industry.

Big Sisters. “You could tell she was something special,” said Dennis Gralike, director of the training center. “She had a desire to succeed and overcome any challenge, well worth IBEW/NECA’s investment in her career development.”

n To date, 32.3% are being completed by minority-owned businesses, exceeding the 25% goal

- PARIC Corporation

“I liked working with my hands and was particularly interested in electrical and communications work, which is rapidly changing our world,” said Westfall. “The IBEW/ NECA Electrical Industry Training Center offered an incredible opportunity to explore that passion. It’s a 100% free of charge, allowing me to earn a living as part of the program and the training was top notch” IBEW/NECA invests $3 million annually in training.

As Westfall completed 10,000 hours of training, her skills helped build projects at UMSL, the Washington Avenue revitalization and renovations for Big Brothers

After graduating from the training center in 2005, Westfall’s fortitude was tested when the Great Recession dried up work in 2008. Her response was to tap two programs supported by the Electrical Connection to not only broaden her skills, but also ultimately launch her own electrical contracting company. “At some point, you have to take your destiny in your own hands,” said Westfall. “I wanted to be an indispensable asset to the NECA contracting community while at the same time, build the skills to join that community as an entrepreneur.”

Westfall began reading books, going to seminars and taking classes. She prepared for her electrical masters’ exam by taking several continuing education classes at the training center. These again were 100% free and funded by IBEW/NECA with no tuition or student loans. It was also a necessary step to start up an electrical contracting business. Certified as a master electrician in 2010, Westfall‘s skills were in greater demand. In 2014, she launched J. West Electrical Contracting.

Construction, though, is an unforgiving business for startups, bedeviled by late payments for services

WGU Missouri is among top universities for African Americans seeking degrees

Now more than ever, businesses around the region are recognizing the value of a diverse workforce and how important it can be in sparking innovation and driving growth. As a result, many companies are creating a diverse culture by adding people of color to their teams, particularly those who are highly skilled and have a degree.

That’s why it’s important that working adults, who are looking to advance their careers, take the time to evaluate how earning a degree can help them accomplish their goals.

Local university WGU Missouri is committed to providing high-quality, career-boosting education to working adults who want to further their education.

As Missouri’s only nonprofit, accredited, online university, WGU Missouri was created in 2013 by Gov. Jay Nixon as a state affiliate of Western Governors University to expand access to affordable, higher education for residents across the state.

The university consistently receives recognition for its efforts in educating and graduating minority student populations. Last year, for instance, WGU was named among the top 100 minority degree producers in the United States by the publication, Diverse: Issues in Higher Education. Specifically, WGU ranked 26th nationally for African-American students graduating with bachelor’s degrees and 11th nationally for African-American students graduating with master’s degrees. These degree programs are career-focused and address key workforce needs. WGU Missouri offers

“I liked working with my hands and was particularly interested in electrical and communications work, which is rapidly changing our world. The IBEW/NECA Electrical Industry Training Center offered an incredible opportunity to explore that passion.”

- Sabrina Westfall

PARIC surpasses diversity goals for Ballpark Village projects

Learning while making medicine better

We’ve all seen how health care continues to improve with new technologies and innovations. Here at BJC HealthCare, we are committed to innovation and excellence in medicine across our 15 hospitals and multiple community health locations. BJC team members on the frontline and behind the scenes of patient care demonstrate that lifelong learning can help you grow professionally and personally.

Learning on the job

Knowledge gained through experience is invaluable. Whether it’s watching a peer demonstrate the most efficient way to safely sanitize equipment, or shadowing a seasoned coworker as they lead a challenging conversation, learning on the job is a great way to observe and practice skills. Plus, learning can happen any time while on the job and sometimes when you least expect it.

BJC team members participate in mentoring programs and work alongside industry experts, which helps them expand the wisdom and skills needed for their current job and future roles.

Learning for career growth

Long-term career goals can take a lifetime to achieve. Outlining your ideal job and how you’ll get there, or forming a short-term goal like earning a degree, are solid first steps. BJC team members take advantage of:

The BJC Institute for Learning and Development (BILD), which is a hub for helping BJC team members grow

PARIC

Continued from B1

structure and a Field of Dreams outdoor concert venue. Before the last steel beam was raised at the PwC Pennant ceremony, several local leaders spoke to the crowd, made up of reporters, future tenants, and tradespeople. One of the featured speakers was VP of Diversity and Inclusion Howard Hayes, of PARIC Corporation, the general con-

their careers, teams and leadership skills.

BILD’s Career Services Center, where learning professionals help team members identify skills that will enable them to grow in their current role or train for a new career at BJC. Assessments and one-on-one counseling help guide employees’ career

tractor at the helm of all these projects.

Hayes is tasked with ensuring minority participation on these projects meets the goals set forth by the city. He explained to the audience that “the goal of our MBE/WBE program here at Ballpark Village is to provide maximum opportunity for minority and women-owned firms to participate in all aspects of this project. We recognize the need to mentor and grow strong, independent MBE/WBE vendors, and to enhance their prominence in our industry.”

plans. The BJC Tuition Assistance Program, which provides financial assistance for benefits-eligible employees pursuing continuing education or certifications that will enhance their career and contributions to making medicine better at BJC. Upon hire, full-time employees are eligible to receive up

Hayes remarked in his address at the ceremony that “Success on this project is being achieved through aggressive outreach to every community. [PARIC’s] emphasis is placed on creating opportunities that are consistent with the contracting capacity and expertise of minority firms.” Hayes continued, “It is important that we are bringing our MWBE firms long-term value by helping them build their people, assets, operating procedures, and bottom line—their revenue. Our ultimate goal with this project is to transfer PARIC industry relationships,

to $4,500 in tuition reimbursement, per year, for successfully completing classes related to their professional responsibilities. Part-time employees are eligible to receive up to $2,250 per year.

Learning for personal development Continuous learning isn’t limited to building professional skills or a career

The BJC Institute for Learning and Development helps team members identify skills that will enable them to grow in their current role or train for a new career at BJC.

plan. Personal growth opportunities can be beneficial in and outside of work. This growth can include developing your: computer skills; interpersonal skills; teamwork skills; and leadership skills.

BJC’s BILD organization offers a variety of courses that help employees strive to continuously learn. Having the desire to learn more helps BJC team members fulfill their shared responsibility of improving the health and well-being of the people and communities they serve.

Personal development can also help you manage your work-life balance. You might learn skills that can help you find balance or recognize the benefits certain skills have at home and in your workplace.

As our world changes, we need to learn and grow with it to be successful.

Visit BJC.jobs if you are interested in growing your career and skills alongside BJC team members who are dedicated to making medicine better for our communities.

knowledge, and technology by providing on-site coaching and technical assistance to the MWBE contractors on our team.” Hayes was also able to share how PARIC was exceeding the goals set forth by the city. According to the data as it relates to contracts for minority and women-owned businesses, out of $169 million dollars of total contract work to date, 32.3% are being completed by minority-owned businesses, exceeding the 25% goal. This equates to $42.2 million dollars in contracts to minority-owned businesses. Out of the same $169 million dollars of total contracts, 7.8% are being completed by women-owned businesses, exceeding the goal of 5% participation. This equates to $13.2 million dollars in contracts to womenowned businesses. Hayes pointed out that the contractual amounts only represent funds that have been secured as of April 2019, leaving room for more growth as the projects progress.

Students earn scholarships to Build Our Future

By St. Louis American Staff

The Construction Career Development Initiative presented fulltuition scholarships on April 1 to nine seniors who are in the first graduating class of CCDI, which seeks to bring diversity to the design and construction industry by mentoring and exposing minority, underrepresented and under-employed men and women to career development in construction. Each Build Our Future Scholarship is tailored to the individual student’s needs and will cover each student’s full tuition and book costs each year as they pursue an associate’s or bachelor’s degree.

The scholarship candidate application process required personal essays, letters of recommendation and in-person interviews with the CCDI Education Committee. Additionally, each recipient has dedicated two to three years to the program learning about the construction industry by attending monthly Saturday Academy sessions, job shadowing, volunteering and building a relationship with their mentors. The 2019 Build Our Future Scholarship recipients include:

Divine Adelman, Ritenour High School, who plans to attend St. Charles Community College/ Missouri State in Construction Management. Divine’s mentor is Jim Dearduff of Clayco; Jordan Coleman, Jennings Senior High School, who plans to attend St. Louis Community College as an Apprentice Scholar. Jordan’s mentor is Morris Hervey of TSi Geotechnical; DaKolby Crittenden-Brown, Clayton High School, who plans to attend St. Louis Community College/Missouri State in Construction Management. DaKolby’s mentor is Trevor Becherer of Clayco; Brandon Fain, Ritenour High School, who plans to attend St. Louis Community College/UMSL, UMSL/Washington University Joint Engineering Program. Brandon’s mentor is Larry Zelenovich, of PayneCrest; Geraldine Flores,

Ritenour High School, who plans to major in Architecture. Her mentor is Debbie Thomas of Clayco; De›Hon Mull, Jennings Senior High School, who plans to attend St. Louis Community College as an Apprentice Scholar. De’Hon’s mentor is Tommy Davis II, of TD4

Electrical;Domonique Nelson, Jennings Senior High School, who plans to attend Missouri University of Science & Technology in Computer Engineering. Domonique’s mentor is Christopher Sellers at Jennings H.S.; Jeremy Walker, North Technical/Riverview Gardens

H.S. who plans to attend Missouri Western in Construction Management. Jeremy’s mentor is Byron Layne of North Technical H.S.; and Makel Winston, North Technical/ Hazelwood West H.S. who plans to attend Mineral Area College in Construction Management. Makel’s

n Each Build Our Future Scholarship is tailored to the individual student’s needs and will cover each student’s full tuition and book costs each year as they pursue an associate’s or bachelor’s degree.

mentor is Patrick Hanneken of North Technical H.S.

As newly graduating students enter the workforce, CCDI and their mentors offer continuous support. “There is nothing more important to the CCDI mission than job placement upon graduation. The relationships enjoyed by Clayco and our partnering firms will help open multiple opportunities for each graduate,” said Tom Sieckhaus, executive vice president, Corporate Business Unit at Clayco. “It is also critical that we help the retention of this new talent in our industry, even after they have landed their first job.”

The Build Our Future Scholarships are made possible with annual donations from local businesses and subcontractors in the St. Louis community.

CCDI would like team with new partners to expand its reach into elementary and middle schools. “We would like to help support more hands-on learning in schools through MakerSpace labs, STEM enrichment programs, and earlier exposure to career technical education (CTE),” Sieckhaus added. “By introducing the opportunities within the construction field to children at an earlier age, we will have time to better guide and prepare them for entering the industry.”

For more information about CCDI, email rachelboemer@ccdi.org or visit its website at www.ccdi.org.

KIPP students and teachers learn and grow

KIPP St. Louis defines an excellent teacher as one who creates both an inspirational and rigorous learning environment for students. Angela Jackson, 4th-grade teacher at KIPP Victory Academy, is known for creating a classroom culture where every student feels valued, as well as, challenged academically. You may walk into her room during Family Meeting, and hear her scholars passionately reciting the poem Hey Black Child or showing HBCU pride through their class cheer. At the beginning of the year, only 8 percent of her scholars read on a 4th-grade level. Through her relentless drive to prove the possible, 71 percent of her 4th-grade scholars will transition to 5th grade at or

above grade level. These are just some of the reasons why Ms. Jackson received the William T. Kemper Excellence in Teaching Award from KIPP St. Louis this past school year. This award, given annually to the KIPP St. Louis Public School Teacher of the Year, recognizes teachers with a track record of improving student achievement, their leadership in the classroom and throughout their school, and their commitment to equipping students with the skills needed to be successful in college and beyond. Ms. Jackson received $5,000 in recognition of her exemplary work at KIPP. Ms. Jackson pulls inspirations for her classroom from her upbringing. She notes, “the KIPP Victory scholars remind me of my

Chicago community where I was born and raised. I know that I am serving a community that strives to want the best despite the hardships that might arise.”

She also credits her success in the classroom to the professional development and coaching that she receives at KIPP. At the heart of KIPP St. Louis Professional Development is the relationship between coach and teacher. All teachers, whether in their first or 21st year, have weekly one-on-one sessions with an instructional coach during which they discuss unit and lesson plans, student assessment data, classroom culture, and areas of professional curiosity. This focused and practical backand-forth is full of candid and

productive conversations about teacher growth.

“The coaching and professional development have helped me to reflect more on each day’s lesson, analyze student data, and be intentional concerning what needs to be done to help my student excel both academically and socially. There is always someone at KIPP who is looking out for me, wanting to make me a better teacher for our scholars.”

As part of a national network of over 224 KIPP schools, we leverage the experience of thousands of colleagues across the country and benefit from the research and support of the KIPP Foundation.

(Enter “Patient Care

or “Prescription Benefit Specialist” in your search to view the job description and apply.)

Angela Jackson, 4th-grade teacher at KIPP Victory Academy, received the William T. Kemper Excellence in Teaching Award from KIPP St. Louis this past school year.

Building Union Diversity program enrolling new classes

BUD boasts 87 percent placement rate in its first four years

By Chris King Of The St. Louis American

The 15 participants in the 16th cohort of the Building Union Diversity (BUD) are looking forward to their graduation from preapprentice training on May 16, at which time the graduates will apply for apprentice programs in their trade of choice.

Meanwhile, it’s not too early to prepare to apply for the next BUD classes starting on June 10 and August 12. Candidates need to take and pass some tests administered by SLATE before being considered for the program, so minorities and women interested in a career in the building trades should go to SLATE, 1520 Market St. on the 3rd floor, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, to start the process.

BUD, which is dedicated to increasing diversity in the building trades in the St. Louis region, most recently graduated 16 pre-apprentices. Of those 16 graduates, 13 were African-American and six were women.

During their five week training, BUD students take and pass their OSHA 10 certification for occupational safety. Then, after a one-week orientation, they spend four weeks learning from floor layers, cement masons, sheet metal workers, carpenters, plumbers, pipe-fitters and the electricians.

They start interviewing for jobs at their graduation, said Russ Signorino, BUD program director, and many are offered jobs immediately. The rest line up interviews with employers.

According to Signorino, BUD boasts an 87 percent placement rate during the first four years of the program.

“In all my years of advocating for more diversity in the building

trades, with all the current and future construction on the books, there has been no better time for African Americans to get into the building trades,” said Lew Moye of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists.

The BUD Program, now in its fourth year, was designed by the St. Louis Building and Construction Trades Council (BCTC). It assembled a team of more than eight cooperating joint labor-management construction training programs to implement and manage this construction skills preapprenticeship training program.

Its aim is to launch careers in construction trades for previously un- and under-employed individuals from across the St. Louis region, with a particular focus on women and minorities.

BUD offers enrollees a comprehensive introduction to construction employment and careers and provides relevant national skills certification training, with a particular focus on job safety. Once participants have successfully completed training they are enrolled in the BCTC employer/contractor database. The

database serves as a pool of prequalified workers at various skill levels and proficiencies and is used by the construction owners and others in supporting the workforce inclusion goals that they are expected to meet and/or exceed, particularly in public supported construction projects.

The BCTC program team is committed to work with partnering owners and only offers training when entry-level jobs are available.

For the new BUD classes starting June 10 and August 12, Signorino will interview candidates the Wednesday

before the session starts. However, candidates need to take and pass some tests administered by SLATE, so Signorino urges minorities and women interested in a career in the building trades to go to SLATE, 1520 Market St. on the 3rd floor, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, to start the process immediately. For more information, visit http:// budprogram.com or call (314) 3036082.

Signorino, BUD boasts

Photo by Wiley Price

Next NGA West to host job training fair on May 2

Project team looking to prepare local talent for construction work

American staff

Next NGA West will host a job training fair from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, May 2, at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis –Herbert Hoover Club, 2901 N. Grand Blvd. in St. Louis.

Four vendors will be in attendance to inform attendees about opportunities for apprenticeships and union and trade programs in such industries as carpentry, HVAC, plumbing, heavy equipment operation and more.

In addition to the vendors—St. Louis Agency on Training and Employment, Building Union Diversity, MOKAN and the Associated General Contractors of Missouri—representatives from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency will also attend.

“A project of this size and scope gives many people in our community a special opportunity to enter a career in construction,” said Leonard Toenjes, president of Associated General Contractors of Missouri.

“Lack of consistency in employment is often a barrier for new entrants into construction. With this type of significant potential for continuity of employment, that barrier can be lowered or eliminated. There are thousands of construction job openings in Missouri with great pay and benefits. We’re excited to have an opportunity for this project to be a stepping stone into a lifelong career.”

“We’re excited to have the opportunity to meet with many members of the St. Louis community on this historic project,” said

Amy Snively, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers spokeswoman. “At construction’s peak, more than 1,000 workers will be employed to complete the entire project, and we’re using these events to inform the community so they can be eligible to work on this transformative project.”

Next NGA West is the largest federal investment project in the history of St. Louis. It is a megaproject jointly managed by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and U.S. Air Force. The

97-acre site is located in the historic St. Louis Place neighborhood at the intersection of Jefferson and Cass avenues.

The project will feature an approximately 712,000 square foot office building, parking garages, visitor center, inspection facility, and access control points. Registration for the job training event is not required. For more information on the Next NGA West construction project, call the project hotline at (314) 676-9418.

Rendering of the future NGA West headquarters in North St. Louis. The project will feature an approximately 712,000 square foot office building, parking garages, visitor center, inspection facility, and access control points.

U.S. Small Business Administration hosting public events May 5-11

Designed to share insights into how to run a small business or start a new one

By Tom Salisbury U.S. Small Business Admin-

Each year, the U.S. Small Business Administration celebrates National Small Business Week. The SBA was created with the mission of helping businesses start, grow, expand – or even recover in the event of a natural disaster. Our goal during the week of May 5-11 is to celebrate small businesses and to inspire and revitalize entrepreneurs.

The SBA’s 68 district offices across the country provide advice and support all year long, and each will sponsor special Small Business Week events designed to teach small business owners more about achieving success. Many will

celebrate their state’s Small Business Person of the Year and Exporter of the Year and make other awards to notable small businesses. Their stories are inspiring.

As I visit with small business owners, one thing is clear – most of their time is spent focusing on their businesses. Running a small business is rewarding work but requires an enormous investment of time and energy. Most small business owners and their families are dedicated to their small business dream.

Still, the most successful owners I meet take time to network and learn as a way to refocus their energy. They invite new ideas to jumpstart their imaginations.

Each of our SBA district and branch offices in Wichita, KS; Kansas City, MO; Springfield, MO; St. Louis, MO; Omaha, NE; Des Moines, IA and Cedar

Rapids, IA, will sponsor one or more special events during National Small Business Week. These events are designed to help entrepreneurs gain new

n Join the conversation on social media with the hashtag #SmallBusinessWeek and find information on these events by visiting the SBA website at www. sba.gov/nsbw.

insights into how to run a small business or start a new one.

I invite you to renew and refocus your entrepreneurial spirit by attending one of these events. You can find details on-

line by entering your zip code at https://www.sba.gov/localassistance or by calling an SBA office near you. The St. Louis District Office may be reached at 314-539-6600. The SBA will also sponsor a virtual conference on a variety of business topics and a national Twitter chat about how to start and grow a business. Join the conversation on social media with the hashtag #SmallBusinessWeek and find information on these events by visiting the SBA website at www.sba.gov/nsbw. Tom Salisbury is the regional administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration Region VII, which covers Missouri, Kansas, Iowa and Nebraska. He previously worked as the small-business liaison for U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt and in lending for UMB Bank. Salisbury can be reached at thomas.salisbury@sba.gov.

U.S. Small Business Administration Region 7 Administrator Tom Salisbury (right) joined district Small Business Administration St. Louis District Director Maureen Brinkley (second from left) at a Farmington, Missouri Chamber of Commerce ceremony announcing a Rural Outreach SBA Strategic Alliance Memorandum earlier this year.

from B1

and aggravating cash flow issues. Only 36.4% of construction startups last five years. To ensure her sustainability as a business enterprise, Westfall tapped a 13-year-old program also supported by the Electrical Connection IBEW/NECA partnership – the Regional Union Construction Center (RUCC).

Launched in 2006 by the venerable labor-management group, Saint Louis Construction Cooperative, RUCC helps minority- and womenowned union construction companies sustain and grow business. Using volunteers from the area’s contractor, legal and accounting community, it mentors startups with business advisory boards. IBEW Local 1 Business Manager Frank Jacobs serves on the RUCC board.

“RUCC represents an extraordinary commitment to workforce and entrepreneur development by the Electrical Connection and the union construction industry,” said Alan Richter, RUCC’s director. “We equip startups with a support network, encourage emerging construction businesses to address tough issues such as cash flow, expenses and negotiating with prime contractors. Sometimes this means declining jobs that would be bad for their business.”

Now in its fifth year, Westfall’s J. West Electric is doing well. It has worked on projects at Ballpark Village, Lambert Airport and Washington University. She has worked with other large NECA contractors including Bell Electrical Contractors, American Electric & Data, Guarantee Electrical Construction Co., and RJP Electric LLC. “Being able to work with other NECA contractors gives us the opportunity to work on larger projects as a second tier subcontractor,” noted Westfall. “This allows J. West to be seen by larger general contractors and have our work evaluated in hopes of being a prime contractor in the future.”

“It would have been easy to remain an electrician or just be a two-person small project electrical contractor,” said Westfall. “But the Electrical Connection partnership is committed to career fulfillment in so many ways.

If you have the passion to succeed, IBEW/NECA is a great partner!” Jim Curran is executive vice president, Electrical Connection, and

Choice Career Fairs is holding a career fair from 11:00 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, May 2 at the Doubletree Hotel, 1973 Craigshire Road in St. Louis. Deutsche Precision, Essex Industries, FedEx Freight and GC Services are expected to be recruiting in Customer Service, Engineering, Manufacturing and Sales. All job seekers are welcome to attend this event to submit resumes, network and meet face-to-face with local hiring managers. To learn more, go to www.ChoiceCareerFairs.com.

more than 60 bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in the areas of business, education, IT and health professions, including nursing.

WGU Missouri is an attractive option for those looking to advance their careers. Its industry-leading, competency-based structure allows students to leverage previous education, training and work experience to graduate faster. Most students are working fulltime and raising families, and the university’s innovative model allows them to move quickly through material they already know and focus on what they still need to learn, which results in accelerated degree completion at low cost.

WGU also offers affordable, flatrate tuition of about $3,500 each sixmonth term, allowing students to take as many courses as possible each term without any added costs. Additionally, WGU-funded scholarships are available to keep costs low, and the university provides tuition discounts to employees of its many partners around the state.

WGU graduates see a difference in their lives as doors open to more career opportunities, with many earning an average of $21,200 more within four years of graduation. To learn more about the university, its programs or scholarships it offers, visit Missouri.WGU.edu.

Dennis Gralike is director, IBEW/ NECA Electrical Industry Training Center.

‘You need the skill set to get that job’

Blunt pushes workforce development programs

By Rachel Lippmann

Of St. Louis Public Radio

U.S. Senator Roy Blunt, R-Missouri, was the first in his family to go to college. Yet the good economic news in the state, and especially his hometown of Springfield, has him championing other routes than four-year degrees, such as certificate programs and associates degrees.

“When you get unemployment under four [percent] and growth near four [percent], something big is happening,” Blunt said. “The mayor of Springfield told me that in October that their unemployment rate was 1.9 percent. This is an economy where a lot of people are getting hired without the skills they need to get hired.”

The circumstance presents a “moment of opportunity” for lawmakers, Blunt told members of the Missouri House of Representatives on April 17. While he did the fouryear college route, as did many of the lawmakers listening, he said there may have been too much focus on getting a four-year degree.

“One of the things I think we need to do a better job of, and you and I can work on this together, is creating a greater sense early for people of the kind of job they might like to have,” Blunt said.

“If there has been a change in the last 20 years, it’s probably been the opportunity of jobs that don’t necessarily need that college degree but need the skill set to get that job.”

Gov. Mike Parson, also a Republican, has made workforce development a priority in this legislative session, proposing grants for lower-income adults who are getting degrees that fill a skills gap. He also wanted to expand and rename the Missouri Works program, which

needs to be a focus on workforce development programs.

Photo by Tim Bommell / Missouri House Communications

helps businesses cover the cost of on-the-job training. The legislation to do so has stalled.

Blunt said he generally doesn’t give advice to his legislative colleagues in Jefferson City, adding there is plenty for him to focus on in Washington, D.C.

“But hopefully this is a moment that we will take advantage of in our state,” he said. “If you look at what’s happening in health care, in world food demand, in the geospatial community, you could make the case that those are all really good for us if we just make a few of the right decisions right now, and I’m sure that’s what the governor and the General Assembly are wrestling with right now.”

Follow Rachel on Twitter: @ rlippmann.

Reprinted with permission from news.stlpublicradio.org.

Missouri Center for Nursing receives grant

The Missouri Center for Nursing is among 12 organizations throughout the nation that will receive up to $25,000 each for new or ongoing work that addresses nursing’s role in building a Culture of Health and promoting health equity, the Future of Nursing: Campaign for Action, an initiative of AARP Foundation, AARP, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, announced.

The Innovation Fund winners were selected based on submissions of replicable strategies that help nurses build a Culture of Health and promote health equity and well-being, while highlighting the importance of collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

The competition was limited to the campaign’s state-affiliate “Action Coalitions,” or organizations designated by Action Coalitions. Applicants were required to raise matching funds to be considered.

Tina Lear, Executive Director, Missouri Center for Nursing, said the Missouri Center for Nursing will focus on continuing to build the Innovative Care Institute, which was launched by the Center in 2018. The funding allocation will enable the center to expand program trainings to include remote offerings through a comprehensive online learning management system, statewide reach, dissemination and evaluation.

“As trusted providers on the front

lines of care, nurses have a unique understanding of the needs of their communities,” said Susan B. Hassmiller, senior adviser for nursing at RWJF and director of the Campaign for Action.

“These states are demonstrating how nurses are taking that important perspective and using it to implement innovative programs to address the social determinants of health.”

The goal for this two-year award is to assist in the creation of replicable strategies that sustain Action Coalition work while highlighting the importance of collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

St. Louis VA is looking for 200 good applicants

One-day hiring event for Legal Administrative Specialists and Veterans Claims Examiners

American staff

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) St. Louis Regional Office is hosting a hiring event from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. (or until 200 applications are received, whichever comes first) on Friday, May 3 at the

St. Louis VA Regional Office in the Charles F. Prevedel Federal Building, 9700 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132.

Veterans and those with Special Hiring Authorities are invited to apply in-person for positions as Legal Administrative Specialists in the National Call Center (GS-5, with promotion potential to GS-7, GS-9), or Veterans Claims Examiners in the Regional Processing Office (GS-7 with promotion potential to GS-9). These positions are not posted on www.usajobs.gov. Applications will be accepted and interviews conducted only during the hiring event. All applicants should arrive prepared for pre-screening and interviews. No preregistration is required. The following hard-copy documents are required for consideration:

• Resume

• Copy of DD214, “Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty” (member 4 copy)

• SF-15, “Application for 10-Point Veteran’s Preference” (https://www. opm.gov/forms/pdf_fill/sf15.pdf)

• Civil Service Preference Letter/10 point preference letter (www. ebenefits.va.gov)

• Unofficial Copy of College Transcripts

• VA Schedule A Letter. Schedule A allows for non-competitive hiring of people with severe disabilities. The letter is provided by the applicant’s physician.

The Charles F. Prevedel Federal Building requires all visitors to proceed through security screening. Visitors must have government-issued photo identification.

U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt, R-Mo., told state lawmakers on April 17 there

Raising the minimum wage is recipe for success

By Howard Hanna For American Forum

In the last eight years, I’ve opened two restaurants: The Rieger in 2010 and Ça Va in 2014. Throughout that time, the federal minimum wage remained stagnant at $7.25 despite the rising cost of living. To me that seems profoundly unfair.

As a restaurant owner, I strongly support legislation that would raise the federal minimum wage to $15 by 2024. I also support gradually phasing out the tipped minimum wage to assure all workers get reliable living wages whatever their position.

Two things are clear: First, the minimum wage hasn’t kept up with the cost of living – $7.25 comes to just $15,080 a year for full-time workers. And second, paying higher wages has real bottom-line business benefits.

One of the industries that would

be most impacted by raising the minimum wage is the restaurant and hospitality industry, and that impact will be positive. In the past, restaurant work was a real path out of poverty for many. When my mother immigrated to the U.S. in the 1970s, she could see the possibility that her children could start in the service industry as a dishwasher, and then years later be the chef and owner of a restaurant.

Similarly, people needing a second chance out of hard times could once find work in this industry and create a better life for themselves and their families.

Sadly, that’s not the reality for most today. Far too many people work long hard hours, yet still live in poverty. We need wages that a person working full time can actually live on.

In my experience, paying above minimum wage and treating our employees well has been a recipe

for success. We’re looking forward to opening two new restaurants next year, while our existing businesses continue to grow.

We need dedicated employees whose goals align with ours to provide real hospitality and make our restaurants the best they can be. Paying above the current minimum wage has helped us hire and retain people and deliver a great experience to our guests. The low-wage, high-turnover business model is not sustainable. Training new staff is time-consuming and expensive. Once someone has learned the job, we want them to stay so we can build institutional knowledge and a strong culture within our restaurants.

When people are paid fairly and feel respected, they care more about the business and are better team players. They are more careful about food waste and they’re more efficient.

They look out for our best interests because we’ve created a culture of respect.

Raising the minimum wage raises everyone up. It puts more money in the hands of those who most need to spend it, and it will boost the economy. Workers who are paid a decent wage are a key customer base for local businesses.

I want workers to earn enough to not just live but thrive. I want people to be able to afford to live closer to work and spend less time, money and energy commuting back and forth. Raising the minimum wage will provide a stronger wage floor upon which people can build toward their dreams for things like home ownership or entrepreneurship. It hurts us all when some businesses pay so little that their employees can’t make a living. People working full time shouldn’t have to depend on public assistance to cover

basics like rent and food. Raising the minimum wage levels the playing field for businesses that are paying their fair share and are invested in their staff and their communities. I understand that a substantial increase in the minimum wage takes adjustment, which is why I support the Raise the Wage Act’s gradual phase-in. This gives businesses time to ramp up and experience benefits such as lower turnover, increased consumer spending and happier customers.

Raising the minimum wage will lift up workers, lift up businesses, and lift up our economy. It’s good for our communities and it’s good for our country.

Howard Hanna is the owner of The Rieger and Ça Va restaurants in Kansas City. He is a member of Business for a Fair Minimum Wage.

Remebering John Singleton

Groundbreaking film director passes at 51

Pioneering Academy Award nominated director John Singleton passed away today after suffering a stroke nearly two weeks ago. He was 51. A family spokesperson told Deadline. com that Singleton passed away peacefully at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, surrounded by his family and friends.

“We want to thank the amazing doctors at Cedars-Sinai Hospital for their expert care and kindness and we again want thank all of John’s fans, friends and colleagues for all of the love and support they showed him during this difficult time,” the family said in a statement.

Earlier on Monday, the family decided to remove Singleton from life support at Cedars,

where he had been in the ICU unit since suffering the stroke 13 days earlier.

Singleton made history with his Academy Award nominations for his breakthrough film “Boyz N the Hood.”

At the tender age of 24, he became the youngest person ever to receive a Best Director nomination – and the first black person nominated. The film also earned him a Best Original Screenplay Oscar nod.

“Boyz N the Hood” launched the careers of Cuba Gooding Jr., Ice Cube and Nia Long – and cemented Singleton’s place as a Hollywood heavy hitter.

Keys, a mic and good music

The soul of the Symphony

IN UNISON to celebrate 25 years with ‘a joyful noise’ Friday at Powell Hall

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

IN UNISON chorus members L.R. Bracy and Rochelle Calhoun endearingly refer to themselves as soprano sisters, though they look more like grandmother and granddaughter. That is part of the power of the 120-voice choir. At age 94, Bracy has announced that this year will be her last.

“I’ve enjoyed every minute of it,” Bracy said. “Because I love to sing, and I love the camaraderie – everybody is so much like a family.”

“The

nationwide on Friday, May 3.

Meagan Good on the making and intention of ‘The Intruder’

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

“If you ask Michael Ealy, who DeVon Franklin now agrees with, the morale of the story is to listen to your husband,” Meagan Good said during her visit to St. Louis to promote her upcoming film “The Intruder,” which hits theaters nationwide on Friday, May 3. Ealy is Good’s on-screen husband. Franklin –a famous author, minister and film producer – is her real-life husband. The covenant of marriage plays a crucial role in the thriller that also stars Dennis Quaid and features Joseph Sikora.

“I think as women we don’t like the idea of being led. We like the idea that we are sideby-side with our husbands,” said Good. “I think when it talks about certain things in the Bible, I think we take it as we are being told that we are less than. What I’ve learned is that men and women have our different roles – and both are equally powerful.”

n “We wanted to have a moviegoing experience that reminds you of what it was like in the ‘80s and ‘90s, where you just have a good time and you come out feeling activated.”

– Meagan Good

In “The Intruder,” Annie Russell is defiantly compassionate towards Charlie (Dennis Quaid), the man who sold her and husband Scott their dream home. Scott has serious reservations about Charlie, but Annie is hazardously blind to Scott’s instincts and oblivious to the warning signs that prove her husband may be onto something. Her kindness and warmth to Charlie’s natural charm take priority over what she sees as her husband’s overly sensitive danger instinct.

“When your husband starts to tell you, ‘I’m uncomfortable with this,’ whether I agree or not, at the end of the day, how my husband feels is important,” Good said. “We’re having a different conversation if my husband doesn’t like my best friend of 20 years. I don’t know this man and he doesn’t know this man and he’s telling you, ‘I don’t feel comfortable.’ I need to respect that.”

She proves why over the course of “The Intruder” Annie chooses Charlie’s friendship over her husband’s feelings – even as Charlie

See FILM, C4

Intruder,” starring Meagan Good, Michael Ealy and Dennis Quaid, opens in theaters

Grammy Award winning singer/songwriter PJ Morton brought down the house during his sold-out show at the Old Rock House Monday night. St. Louis was one of the lucky cities to land the intimate ‘Keys and A Mic’ tour that also included a stunning acoustic guitar and vocal performance by featured artist Peter Collins. Photo by Lawrence Bryant

1.

concerts

May 3, 6 p.m., Acclaimed jazz pianist Alexis Lombre, BB’s Jazz, Blues & Soups 700 S. Broadway. For more information, call (314) 7978024.

Tues., May 7, 8 p.m., The Ready Room presents Damien Escobar 4195 Manchester Ave., 63110. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com

Sun., May 19, 2 p.m., Sheldon Concert Hall presents James Carter with the Peter Martin Trio. 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Sun., May 19, 7 p.m., Flexin Global presents Lil Boosie Live in Concert. 9800 Halls Ferry Rd., 63136. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Fri., May 24, 9 p.m., Kandi Koated Entertainment presents Welcome to the Dungeon feat. Kandi Burruss with special guests Tamar Braxton and Trina. The Pageant, 6161 Delmar Blvd., 63112. For more information, visit www.ticketmaster.com.

Fri., May 31, 8 p.m., Chaifetz Arena presents the 2019 Spring Music Festival feat. Jaheim, Monica, Tank, Avant, and Donell Jones. 1 S. Compton Ave., 63103. For

more information, visit www. thechaifetzarena.com.

local gigs

Sat., May 4, 8 p.m., Fubar presents Ann Marie: The Tripolar Tour. 3108 Locust St., 63103. For more information, visit www.etix. com.

Sun., May 5, 2 p.m., The Sheldon’s City of Music All-Star Chorus presents Dwelling Together in Unity. Featuring The Rising Generations Chorus. 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit www. thesheldon.org.

Tues., May 7, 6 p.m., Missouri History Museum presents Twilight Tuesdays: Kim Massie’s Tribute to Aretha Franklin. 5700 Lindell Blvd., 63112. For more information, visit www. mohistory.org.

Wed., May 8, 7 p.m., Kenny DeShields. Renaissance Airport Hotel, 9801 Natural Bridge Rd., 63134. For more information, visit www. facebook.com.

Wed., May 15, 7 p.m., Old Rock House presents Tameca Jones. 1200 S. 7th St., 63104. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com.

Sun., May 19, 3 p.m., The Sheldon presents

James Carter with The Peter Martin Trio. 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Sun., May 26, 5:30 p.m., The Ambassador presents Marvin Gaye Celebration: A Musical Tribute. Feat. Andrew Bethany & The Drew Project, Justin Hoskin and The Movie, and more. 9800 Halls Ferry Rd., 63136. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

special events

Sat., May 4, 11 a.m. & 3 p.m., Afro World presents Hatitudes 2019. 2 fashion shows featuring the “Rosebud”

of New York, giveaways, and more. 7276 Natural Bridge Rd., 63121. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Sat., May 4, 12 noon, The 17th Mary Meachum Freedom Crossing Celebration, The “Africans to Americans: 400 Years of History” event will feature historical re-enactments written by three St. Louisarea playwrights, a choir competition, and activities for children. Mary Meachum site on the Mississippi Greenway (Riverfront Trail) at 28 E. Grand, St. Louis 63147

Sat., May 4, 2 p.m., Mother’s Day Extravaganza. Enjoy massages, makeovers, a fashion show, workshops, and more. Medici MediaSpace, 2065 Walton Rd., 63114. For

The tour includes round trip transportation, 3 stops at Black-owned businesses complimentary entry to the 365 Black Party, and more. The Signature Club, 9002 Overland Plz., 63114. For more information, visit www.365BlackBusTour. Eventbrite.com.

Sun., May 5, 6 p.m., Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Omicron Theta Omega Chapter presents 365 Black Party. The Signature Club, 9002 Overland Plz., 63114. For more information, visit www.365BlackBusTour. Eventbrite.com.

Tues., May 7, 7:30 p.m., Nickelodeon’s Double Dare Live! Hosted by Marc Summers. Fox Theatre. 527 N. Grand Blvd., 63013. For more information, visit www. fabulousfox.com.

Wed., May 8, 11 a.m., St. Louis Career Fair. Employers are looking to hire on the spot. Doubletree Hotel Westport, 1973 Craigshire Rd., 63146. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com.

Thur., May 9, 5 p.m.,

more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Sat., May 4, 1 p.m., PorchFestSTL. Porches and public spaces become stages for local bands of many genres. Skinker DeBaliviere Neighborhood, 6008 Kingsbury Ave., 63112. For more information, visit www. porchfeststl.com.

Sat., May 4, 2 p.m., Mother’s Day Extravaganza. Enjoy massages, makeovers, a fashion show, workshops, and more. Medici MediaSpace, 2065 Walton Rd., 63114. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Sun., May 5, 1:30 p.m., Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Omicron Theta Omega Chapter hosts 365 Black Bus Tour

Helium Comedy Club presents Sinbad. See COMEDY for details.

Ave., 63101. For more information, visit www. nationalbluesmuseum.org.

Sun., May 12, 5:30 p.m., Denise Thimes & Friends Special Mother’s Day Concert. With special guests Jermaine Smith and Matthew Whitaker. Touhill Performing Arts Center, 1 University Blvd., 63121. For more information, visit www.touhill. org.

Tues., May 14, 6 p.m., Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District Rate Commission Public Hearing. St. Louis County Library Grant’s View Branch, 9700 Musick Rd., 63123. For more information, visit www.stlmsd.com.

Thur., May 16, 4 p.m., The Housing Resource Fair. Professionals from Enterprise Bank & Trust and other key organizations will be on site to assist families. Riverview Gardens High School, 1218 Shepley Dr., 63137. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Fri., May 17, 6 p.m., Young Friends of the Garden present the 12th Annual Festof-Ale. Samples from over 20 of the region’s microbreweries, raffles, and more. Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw Blvd., 63110. For more information, visit www. missouribotanicalgarden.org.

Sat., May 18, 12 p.m., 11th Annual Taste of Maplewood Street Festival. A can’t miss event for foodies, shoppers, and music lovers. Sutton Blvd., 63143. For more information, visit www.midcountychamber. org.

Wed., May 22, 10 a.m., JobNewsUSA.com presents the St. Louis Job Fair Doubletree Hotel Westport, 1973 Craigshire Rd., 63146. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com.

May 23 – 28, 40th Annual St. Louis Senior Olympics. Men and women 50 years of age and better will compete in over 90 events at over a dozen local venues. For more information, visit www. stlouisseniorolympics.org.

Sat., May 25, 11:30 a.m., 11th Annual Morehouse Men of Style: Scholarship Luncheon and Fashion Show. Hilton Frontenac, 1335 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 63131. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Sun., May 26, 6 p.m., Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., East St. Louis Alumni Chapter presents the Sundress and Linen Memorial Day Party. 10701 Lambert International Blvd.,

63145. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com.

literary

Fri., May 10, 8 p.m., Jazz n’ Tongues presents A Langston Hughes Retrospective: Was Langston Hughes the First Rapper. St. Louis University Theatre, 3733 W. Pine Mall Blvd., 63108.

Saturday, May 11, 11 a.m., North County Writing & Arts Network, Writers, artists, poets from North St. Louis County, create, connect and critique at monthly meeting. Jamestown Bluffs 4153 N. Hwy. 67 (Lindbergh), Florissant, MO. For more info: nocowan@yahoo.com or https://www.meetup.com/ North-County-Writing-Arts/ events/260437039/

Wed., May 15, 7 p.m., St. Louis Public Library’s Hip Hop Appreciation Week presents An Evening with Hanif Abdurraqib Abdurraqib will discuss his biography on A Tribe Called Quest titled Go Ahead In The Rain. 1301 Olive St., 63103. For more information, visit www.left-bank.com.

Wed., May 15, 7 p.m., Left Bank Books hosts author Derrick Gold, author of 100 Things Cardinals Fans Should Know & Do Before They Die. Left Bank Books, 399 N. Euclid Ave., 63108. For more information, visit www.leftbank.com.

Wed., May 22, 7 p.m., University City Public Library hosts author Rafia Zafar, author of Recipes for Respect: African American Meals and Meaning. 6701 Delmar Blvd., 63130. For more information, visit www. ucpl.lib.mo.us/ucplevents.

art

Sun., May 5, 10 a.m., The Heights hosts Richmond Heights ArtFest. Stroll the park full of art, music, food & family fun. Lindbergh, 63117. For more information, visit www.rhartfest.com.

May 10 – 12, Laumeier’s 32nd Annual Art Fair. Vendors, kids activities, up to 150 juried artists from across the country, and more. 12580 Rott Rd., 63127. For more information, visit www. laumeiersculpturepark.org.

May 25 – 27, The St. Louis African Arts Festival. World’s Fair Pavilion in Forest Park, 1904 Concourse Dr., 63110. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com.

Through May 31, The Griot Museum of Black History presents Still We Thrive. An exhibition on the neighborhoods of Fountain Park, Lewis Place, and The Ville, that focuses on the resilience, activism, and identity of these historic African-American communities. 2505 St. Louis Ave., 63106. For more information, visit www. thegriotmuseum.com.

comedy

May 9 – 11, Helium Comedy Club presents Sinbad. 1151 Saint Louis Galleria, 63117. For more information, visit www.heliumcomedy.com.

May 17 – 19, Helium Comedy Club presents Gary Owen. 1151 Saint Louis Galleria, 63117. For more information, visit www. heliumcomedy.com.

Sat., May 25, 6 p.m., Love and Laugh Hour St. Louis. Feat. Tahir Moore, Tony Baker, and KevOnStage. City of Life Christian Church, 8333 Fullerton Ave., 63132. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

theatre

Sat., May 4, 9 p.m., Afriky Lolo presents A Night in Africa. A guided trip to Mother Africa. There will be a photo booth, dancing & drumming, games, a fashion

May 15 – June 2, The Black Rep presents Nina Simone: Four Women, Edison Theatre, 6445 Forsyth (on the campus of Washington University). Tickets are available at theblackrep.org, or by phone at 314-534-3807.

lectures and workshops

Thur., May 9, 6 p.m., National Coalition of Black Women, Metropolitan St. Louis Chapter presents Sister-Nomic$: Investing 101. St. Louis County Library, Florissant Valley Branch, 195 S. New Florissant Rd., 63031. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com.

Sat., May 11, 9 a.m., Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., St. Louis Alumnae Chapter presents Teen Summit: Empowering Youth to SelfAdvocacy. Harris Stowe, 3026 Laclede Ave., 63103. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

show, and more. Mission St. Louis, 3108 N. Grand Blvd., 63107. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com.

May 8 – 9, COCA presents Harmonious. Featuring an engaging repertoire of musical theatre and pop favorites. 524 Trinity Ave., 63130. For more information, visit www.cocastl. org.

Sun., May 12, 7:30 p.m., Tennessee Williams Tribute A tribute reading with poetry, prose, and song. Dark Room, 3610 Grandel Sq., 63108. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

May 10 – 12, Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Farewell Play. With Tamela Mann, David Mann, and Cassi Davis. Fox Theatre, 527 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www.fabulousfox.com.

Tues., May 14, 11 a.m., Churches on the Street St. Louis presents Human Trafficking EDU Workshop. RSVP required. St. Louis Community College at Forest Park, 5600 Oakland Ave., 63110. For more information, visit www.facebook.com.

health

Sat., May 4, 12 p.m., Holistic Health air Seminar: Connect, Learn, & Improve. Emerson Performance Center, Harris Stowe, 3026 Laclede Ave., 63103. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com.

Sat., May 4, 9 a.m., Cancer Support Community invites you to Steps for Hope. 1 mile or 3.7 mile walk or fun run. Tremayne Shelter, Creve Coeur Park, 13725 Marine Ave., 63146. For more information, visit www. cancersupportstl.z2systems. com.

Wed., May 15, 1 p.m., St. Louis Children’s Hospital presents Diabetes Survival Skills. 1 Children’s Place, 63110. For more information, call (314) 454-6051.

Fri., May 17, 6:30 p.m., Arthritis Foundation presents the Walk to Cure Arthritis. Logan University, 1851 Schoettler Rd., 63017. For more information, visit www. walktocurearthritis.org/stlouis.

Sat., May 18, 10 a.m., Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., St. Louis Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter presents the 2nd Annual Spring Fling Health & Wellness Expo. 24:1 Coffee House, 6730 Page Ave., 63133. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Sat., May 25, 1:30 p.m., Kick, Push, Pull Training & Development Coalition presents Matters of Heart Health and Wellness: The Mind is a Terrible Thing to Waste. Free speaker series for women only. Medici MediaSpace, 2055 Walton Rd., 63114. For more information, visitwww.eventbrite.com.

Fri., May 3, 7 p.m., Diamond Entertainment presents Deitrick Haddon. Special Performance by Michael Lampkin. Harris Stowe, 3026 Laclede Ave., 63103. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Sun., May 5, 3 p.m., Zion Temple Church of God in Christ, Pastor Henry & Lady Sandra Price 52nd Church Anniversary, Guest Speaker: Bishop Melvin J. Smith, Esq., Prelate of Missouri Gateway Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction. Nazareth Temple COGIC, 3300 Marshall Ave., St. Louis, MO 63114. The Guest Speaker: Bishop Melvin J. Smith, Esq., Prelate of Missouri Gateway Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction. For more information, call 314652-7829.

Kenya Vaughn recommends

Acclaimed jazz pianist Alexis Lombre. For more information, see CONCERTS.

Calhoun is not happy about her upcoming departure.

“I feel some kind of way about it,” she said. “I’m hoping that after the break she changes her mind and we see her again. I’m going to feel some type of way if I look down the row come September and don’t see her.” Bracy seems convinced.

“It’s like leaving your family behind. It’s kind of sad,” Bracy said. “It’s been a joy doing it – learning and reaching new heights in music. The mind is willing, but the body is weak.” Bracy and Calhoun have an interesting common bond –neither grew up singing gospel. Both were raised Catholic and were used to their church music being classically performed –and in Latin.

Calhoun is in her sixth season. Bracy has been with the group from its inception when, under the leadership of Robert Ray, singers from different church choirs came together to form IN UNISON.

On Friday, May 3, IN UNISON and the St. Louis Symphony will commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the chorus with a special community concert at Powell Hall. It will be one of their few remaining performances together.

“It bridges different communities, it bridges different generations and it bridges different faiths under this roof,” Calhoun said. “We have a wonderful time showing everyone that the St. Louis Symphony is not the symphony for just a few people, not the symphony for people of a certain ethnicity or socioeconomic level – that it is our symphony.”

A native of Virginia, Calhoun was introduced to gospel and Negro spirituals through the Hampton University Concert Choir. Part of that music education was “Gospel Mass” by Robert Ray – the man who founded IN UNISON.

Bracy was introduced to gospel as a member of the historic Antioch Baptist Church, which was one of the charter church choirs that came together to create the IN UNISON Chorus a quarter-

century ago. “We started out with all black churches, and now we are quite integrated,” Bracy said of IN UNISON.

People of all ages and races were on hand Monday night when the group gathered for one of their final rehearsals before Friday’s concert. For their vocal warm up, they invited chorus members who shared the birthdays on the months that they would be absent from performing together to the front of the stage to be serenaded with a harmonious rendition of “Happy Birthday.”

“Who has a birthday in

IN UNISON is singing and the orchestra is playing, if you closed your eyes you would be in a worship sanctuary,” McBeth said. “The verbal response from the audience member is much like a worship service in that regard. And the way everyone is just so passionate about making this music come to life.”

McBeth was eager to admit that Ray left quite a legacy – and pretty big shoes to fill – when he stepped in to carry the torch as director of IN UNISON eight years ago. But it’s a position McBeth feels built for.

“I’m living a dream life,”

n “It bridges different communities, it bridges different generations and it bridges different faiths under this roof.”

– Rochelle Calhoun

June?” IN UNISON Director Kevin McBeth said. The choir began to shout out names of people to come forward.

Ahead of the rehearsal, McBeth said that the group was “one big happy family.” The gesture proved him right. They soaked in the moment of each of the three warmups, then got down to business. A traditional gospel selection, a classic Negro spiritual and a selection from the Broadway musical “The Color Purple” were first on the list.

“There are moments when

St. Louis Symphony IN UNISON Chorus soprano Rochelle Calhoun as she rehearses for the choir’s special community concert commemorating the group’s 25th Anniversary taking place on Friday, May 3rd at Powell Symphony Hall.

FILM

Continued from C1

constantly oversteps his boundaries. Annie sees him as harmless, albeit emotionally attached. She feels that she was built to help him make the transition of letting go of his beloved home a seamless and welcoming exchange.

Her cluelessness fuels the edge-of-your-seat moments in Deon Taylor’s thriller.

“Me and Deon had a lot of conversations about her where I would be like ‘I don’t think that she would do that,’” Good said.

According to McBeth, the St. Louis Symphony is passionate about the IN Unison Chorus. Members of the orchestra look forward to the unique experiences provided through their annual performances held during their Gospel Christmas, “Lift Every Voice” Black History Month Concert and the community outreach performances that take place throughout the year.

“When you get 120 really fine singers on the stage with 80 in the orchestra, I often joke it’s like driving a very expensive race car with no brakes,” McBeth said. “At any moment you don’t know what the spirit is going to do, but you do know it’s going to be really wonderful.”

It was that very spirit of A Gospel Christmas, with special guest CeCe Winans that introduced Calhoun to IN UNISON. She promises that same energy Friday night.

said McBeth. “My move into this position into being a part of the bridge has been easy because the groundwork has been there. Twenty-five years ago, Dr. Ray, the St. Louis Symphony and all of those people involved in the community partnerships they all did the heavy lifting. My bigger responsibility is to honor all of that work that has been done and to make sure that I have a legacy like this one to pass on to whoever will be the next conductor when I retire in 100 years.”

“Not only see the chorus, but the orchestra youth mentors, IN UNISON scholars and our young artists,” Calhoun said. “Every aspect of the IN UNISON program is going to be represented Friday night on stage. We are all going to be making a joyful noise, and if you miss it you will regret it.”

The St. Louis Symphony IN UNISON Chorus Community Concert commemorating the 25th Anniversary of IN Unison will take place at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 3 at Powell Symphony Hall. The performance is free and open to the public, but reservations are requested. For more information, visit https://www. slso.org/en/com/community_ concerts/.

“And he said, ‘As I director I’m standing back as an audience member and I’m saying this is the moment where the crowd says, ‘Girl, don’t do it.’”

“The Intruder” was a collaborative effort between Taylor and the cast – who worked together to create those moments.

“My job was how to get there authentically – from a realistic point of view,” Good said. “So, even if you don’t agree with the choices she made, you understand how she

got there.” Working on the film was especially satisfying for all parties involved because the characters were such a deviation from what the actors are typically known for.

“It gave us license to really just have fun with each other,” Good said. “ There were a lot of collaborative conversations between us three and Deon. We were talking and rewriting scenes and really intentional about what we wanted to do and what we wanted this movie to be.”

She feels like they went above and beyond accomplishing the mission of “The Intruder.”

“We wanted to have a movie-going experience that reminds you of what it was like in the ‘80s and ‘90s,” Good said. “Where you just have a good time and you come out feeling activated. You don’t feel like you just watched something, you feel like you were a part of something.”

“The Intruder” opens in theaters nationwide on Friday, May 3. The film is rated PG-13, with a running time of 102 minutes.

SINGLTON

Continued from C1

The film was selected by the U.S. Library of Congress for preservation in the National Film Registry in 2002.

Known for his work as a screenwriter and producer as well as a director, Singleton has more than a dozen films to his credit in the nearly 30 years since “Boyz N the Hood.” Among them include “Poetic Justice,” “Higher Learning,” “Rosewood,” a reboot of “Shaft,” “Baby Boy,” “Four Brothers” and “2 Fast 2 Furious.”

“My prayers go out today to

“Mourning the loss of a collaborator & True Friend

John Singleton,” said actor Samuel L. Jackson. “He blazed the trail for many young film makers, always remaining true to who he was & where he came from!!!”

Singleton is survived by his mother, Sheila Ward, his father, Danny Singleton and his children Justice, Maasai, Hadar, Cleopatra, Selenesol, Isis, and Seven. Information from Deadline. com contributed to this report.

John Singleton and his family,” said fellow black filmmaker Robert Townsend. “May God bless the young cinematic king who gave us images that will stay with us forever.”

Celebrations

Anniversary Birthdays

Reunions

yahoo.com or send your questions to P.O. Box 155, Florissant, MO 63032.

Beaumont High School Class Of 1969 will celebrate i’s 50 year reunion Sept 20-22, 2019 at Embassy Suites St. Charles.. Come join us as we celebrate these golden years, “Living Life Like It’s Golden.” For more information contact Dennis Hayden 314 276-6188 or beaumontclassof1969@

Beaumont Class of 1974 is planning its “We’re Living Our Best Life” 45th reunion for the weekend of July 26-28, 2019. To update us with your information please email us at ten55jw@yahoo.com, forward communications to Beaumont Alumni 1974, PO Box 37091, St. Louis MO 63141 or call James White, 314-494-5554. Details coming soon!

Beaumont High School Class of 1979 is planning its 40 year reunion. All activities are scheduled for the weekend of September 27-29. The location is The

Happy 90th Birthday to Alvin Andrews Sr., born May 7, 1929 in St. Louis, where he was also raised. We love you and celebrate you on this day. From your wife, Ora Belle, and your children Pam, Barbara, Alvin Jr. and Jennifer

Airport Marriot at 10700 Pear Tree Drive, St. Louis 63134. For more information, contact Milton Jackson at 314-2764392 or Yolanda Lockhart at lockhartyo08@gmail.com

Kinloch Class of 1969 is planning its 50th year reunion on August 21, 22 and 23. Dinner dance at Orlandos, 2050 Dorsett Village Plaza. For information call Ruben at 314-239-5202 or Ophelia at 314-280-6596. Classmates please respond by April 2019.

Northwest Class of 1969 is planning a 50 year reunion June 7-9, 2019. Contract Evelyn (McClendon) Hines for details at (314) 361-5150.

Mr. Samuel Washington of St. Louis, MO, is one of few living veterans of World War II. He served in the Normandy invasion and was stationed in North Africa, Germany and France. Mr. Washington celebrated his 97th birthday on April 29.

Northwest Class of 1979 is planning on cruising for our 40th class reunion and would love for you to join us! Date to sail is set for July 20, 2019 and you can feel free to contact: Duane Daniels at 314-568-2057 or Howard Day at 414-698-4261 for further information. Please don’t miss the boat!

Soldan Class of 1974 Alumni Association is planning its 45 year reunion. Please get your contact information to dhblackjack@ charter.net or call 314-7493803.

Soldan Class of 1979 is planning its 40th year reunion for the weekend of

August 2-3, 2019. Yearlong reunion activities will begin with a kickoff at Soldan High School Homecoming on Saturday, October 13, 2018 prior to the game at 1 p.m. For more information or to assist with reunion activities, please email at: soldanclassof1979@gmail. com or call Barbara at 314 456-3391.

Sumner Class Of 1969 50th reunion “Living Life Like It’s Golden” June 28-30, 2019. Looking for classmates of 1969 to contact us with your updated information via address:sumnerclass1969@ gmail.com or our FB page: Sumner High.

Do you have a celebration you’re proud of? If so we would like to share your good news with our readers. Whether it’s a birth, wedding, engagement announcement, anniversary, retirement or birthday, send your photos and a brief announcement (50 words or less) to us and we may include it in our paper and website – AT NO COST – as space is available Photos will not be returned. Send your announcements to: kdaniel@stlamerican. com or mail to:

St. Louis American Celebrations c/o Kate Daniel 2315 Pine St. St. Louis,

Reunion notices are free of charge and

on space availability. We prefer that notices be emailed to us! However, notices may also be sent by mail to:

Daniel, 2315

St.

63103 Deadline is 10 a.m. on Friday. If you’d like your class to be featured in a reunion profile, email or mail photos to us. Our email address is: reunions@stlamerican.com

Happy 3rd Anniversary to Mr. and Mrs. Robert and J’Naye

. They will celebrate their special day on May 7. May the love you share today grow stronger every day. Love, Mom

Empty pews

may mean it’s time to downsize

Declining church attendance leads to difficult decisions

By Shahla Farzan Of St. Louis Public Radio

Declining church attendance is forcing some religious leaders to make difficult decisions — namely, what to do with outsized or vacant places of worship.

Many U.S. churches were built decades ago during times of religious growth. In some communities, however, shrinking congregations no longer have the financial resources to maintain these large church properties.

Many old churches have “substantial value,” said Robert Simons, professor of urban planning at Cleveland State University.

“For the most part, there’s a pretty short list of prohibited uses most faiths subscribe to,” said Simons. “If you decommission the building and take out the sacred objects, it becomes a piece of real estate.”

Developers and individual buyers have repurposed churches in Missouri and across the country for new uses, including cultural centers, housing and restaurants.

In St. Louis, a team of skateboarders and engineers converted St. Liborius — a 130-year-old Catholic church — into an indoor skate park.

Similarly, the Grandel Theatre in Grand Center — now managed by the Kranzberg Arts Foundation as a performing space — was once a First Congregational Church.

Jubilee Church in Webster Groves sat vacant for more than 10 years before it became a bed and breakfast in 2016.

Though the age of the church and its condition are important, Simons said, the real estate market is the main factor that affects whether it sells.

“You can have a great building in the wrong location, and there’s not much you can do at all,” he explained, adding historic preservation tax credits may provide

by Brian Heffernan

The Message Humbly exalted

They say no one can ever lead a perfect life. Flaws, faults and mistakes are the unavoidable consequences of being human. God lets us know through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ that how we handle our imperfections is about as important as acknowledging that we do indeed have them.

Humility is an essential ingredient of any Christian’s makeup, or at least it should be, given our understanding of personal imperfection. A humble person would never look down upon or somehow rationalize the thought that he or she is better than someone else. The reason must be their personal recognition of that old saying “there but for the grace of God go I.”

Throughout the Bible there are countless references to living a life devoid of ego and pride. According to Paul, humility is a prerequisite for the presence of the Holy Spirit.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control… Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.” Galatians 5:22-26.

additional incentive for developers.

Beyond the logistics, shuttering a church can be an emotional task for parishioners.

Memories “accrete over time” in places of worship, said David Greenhaw, president of Eden Theological Seminary, making it difficult for congregants to let them go. Eden Theological Seminary recently host a two-day symposium focused on ways religious and community leaders can repurpose these buildings.

“People have a loving relationship with these spaces,” Greenhaw said. “They were married there, their children were baptized there, they attended funerals in these spaces.”

But these aging buildings can place a financial burden on congregations, particularly as membership declines.

There’s a psychological aspect as well, said Greenhaw, because overly large churches can “expedite the decline of the

congregation itself.”

“You expect to see a whole lot of people when you enter, and instead it doesn’t have much energy or life,” he said. “It feels half empty, and that leads to it becoming more empty.”

Downsizing to a new space may not be the answer for every church, said Greenhaw. Instead, some may consider repurposing unused spaces for new community programs. Union Avenue Christian Church, for instance, now houses an opera company, office space for church outreach and an art gallery.

“It’s not about closing buildings; it’s about thinking strategically about how to use them wisely,” Greenhaw said. “How can they be repurposed in meaningful ways to contribute to the community?”

Follow Shahla on Twitter: @shahlafarzan. Reprinted with permission from news. stlpublicradio.org.

Conditioning yourself to live humbly is pretty difficult, particularly nowadays. We live in a world that measures the substance of a person by the accumulation of money, things, position and status, even if we think it’s unwarranted. To obtain a humble state of mind as a matter of course can seem impossible, but in order to live according to the word of God, it is mandatory. “For whoever exalted himself will be humbled and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” Matthew 23:12. I think this is the reason Christ said, “He who is without sin cast the first stone.” The real meaning behind this is once you do it, then real forgiveness must follow. Who would dare be arrogant enough not to humble himself in the eyes of God by not forgiving his fellow man’s transgressions?

That brings me to the role of the church. If there was ever a place where the concept of forgiveness is guaranteed, it’s the church. There is no perfect church or perfect pastor. The key to all of this is what happens after you fall, after you sin, after you backslide.

Remember that falling and failing is inevitable. Getting up is not. As long as you ask the Holy Spirit for a helping hand, I’m told all can be forgiven.

I’ve got to believe God is a God of another chance because I’ve blown so many chances myself. I’ve ruined so many opportunities and yet so many blessings still come my way. The least I can do is to show up in church on Sunday to let others know this is a place to come and bring an imperfect life in search of the perfect truth. Flaws and all, God loves me and every now and then that’s something I need to be reminded of. Church is probably the best and one of the only places where that can happen. The challenge is to remember you can never feel comfortable about casting that first stone.

Columnist James Washington

Photo

/ St. Louis Public Radio

The Grandel is a former church in Grand Center that now houses the Dark Room, a jazz club. The building was also home to the Black Rep theater for 20 years.

JANITORIAL - HIRING

CULVER PAVILION AT THE MUNY JOB SPECIFICATIONS ROLE: EXECUTIVE CHEF

OVERVIEW:

The Muny is seeking an EXECUTIVE CHEF to complete our food service team in our Culver Pavilion for the 2019 season.

JOB DURATION: SEASONAL (May – Aug) JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

The candidate would

•

as scheduled

• Maintaining and scheduling kitchen staff on a weekly basis

• Manage and maintain food and food supply inventory (e.g. receiving, stocking and rotation of food supplies)

• Develop and maintain rapport with guests

• Be able to work flexible schedule. Mostly days JOB QUALIFICATIONS The

•

ability to multi-task working independently with minimal direction

TO APPLY: Contact Retta Berberich, Director of Food and Beverage, by email at rberberich@muny.org or by phone (314) 595-5752.

BUSINESS SYSTEMS

ANALYST

Responsibility for the collection, preparation, documentation and communication of IS requirements, both business and technical Demonstrates clear and working knowledge and concepts of Business Analysis and Information Technology Is capable of working independently, but may be assigned to work under the guidance of a Senior Business Systems Analyst when engaged in larger, more complex projects

To apply, please visit: https://www. safetynational.com/careers-page/

MANAGER – PREMIUM AUDIT

The Manger will work both collaboratively and independently while self-directing their work processes to meet corporate objectives and goals related to the accurate and timely completion of assigned premium audits, while overseeing the day-to-day operations of premium audit activities. The manager will make assignments while monitoring and managing individual and team workload. This role is responsible for meeting established Customer Service Standards for accurate and timely ordering of physical audits and timely processing of large casualty and primary audits. To apply, please visit: https://www. safetynational.com/careers-page/

MISSOURI HISTORICAL SOCIETY NEW OPENINGS!

The Missouri Historical Society has position openings for the following:

• Electrician/General Maintenance

• Exhibitions Preparator and Carpenter

• HVAC Maintenance Technician

• Housekeeper

• Resource Protection Officer

Please visit www.mohistory.org under the “Current Openings” tab for position details and to apply.

An Equal Opportunity Employer

CITY OF JENNINGS JOB OPENINGS

The City of Jennings is accepting applications for Correctional Officer, Public Works Laborers, Concession Stand Workers, Scorekeepers, Umpires, Site Monitors, and Part-Time Bus Driver. Please see the full job descriptions online at www.cityofjennings. org. Applications are available at the Jennings City Hall or online at www. cityofjennings.org.

The City of Jennings is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

COLLEGE PERSISTENCE COACH

Loyola Academy of St. Louis, a Jesuit-sponsored middle school for boys, seeks a dynamic individual to serve as its full-time College Persistence Coach. The College Persistence Coach provides guidance and support, for alumni and their families, through the college selection, admissions and financial aid processes and throughout the college careers of alumni. Contact with alumni and administrators requires travel to both local and out-of-state college campuses. The successful candidate will possess exceptional organizational, communication and interpersonal skills. Previous work experience in an educational setting with underserved, first-generation college students is preferred. A Bachelor’s degree is required for this position. Interested and qualified applicants should submit a letter of interest and resume to Mr. Elbert Williams III, Director of Graduate Support, at ewilliams@loyolaacademy.org, by April 26, 2019. No phone inquiries, please. For additional information about the school and job description, please visit our website at www.loyolaacademy.org.

ACTUARIAL ASSISTANT

Provide analytical and technical support to the Chief Reserving Actuary. To apply, please visit: https://www.safetynational. com/careers-page/

MUNICIPAL BUILDING INSPECTOR

NEEDED

The City of Country Club Hills is looking for a city building inspector to serve on a part-time as-needed basis. Applicants should be knowledgeable about building inspections and city codes through education and/or training. Compensation will be on an hourly basis.

DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER

Webster University has an opening for a Digital Content Manager. Please visit our website at https://apptrkr.com/1444850 for a complete job description and to apply. No phone calls please. We are proud to be an equal opportunity affirmative action employer. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.

MANAGER – POLICY OPERATIONS

The Account Services Policy Operations Manager is responsible for the oversight of policy operations business processes and personnel. This management position is responsible for supervising the day to day operations and supervision of staff personnel in an Account Services Policy Operations functional unit. This role leads applicable personnel in best practices for client /customer support, data integrity, accuracy and efficiency of related processes. To apply, please visit: https://www. safetynational.com/careers-page/

AREA EDUCATOR

Is now accepting applications for: Area Educator – Youth Development & 4H - St. Louis

Please visit our website www.lincolnu. edu for details and how to apply. Lincoln University is “An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/ADA Employer.”

CITY OF ST PETERS, MO CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Are

To view current openings and to apply please visit: www.stpetersmo.net/jobs

AA/EOE

The Premium Audit Coordinator will work both collaboratively and independently to meet corporate objectives and goals related to the accurate and timely completion of excess premium audits. The Coordinator will conduct audit processes for applicable excess accounts, substantiating the accuracy of policy classifications, exposure base, exposure information, inclusions / exclusions, status of subcontractors, etc. The Coordinator will also facilitate the order process for applicable excess accounts. To apply, please visit: https://www. safetynational.com/careers-page/

As

DIRECTOR, FAMILY SUPPORT INITIATIVES

of grant contracts and grantee contractor reports/invoices for ARCHS’ funded family support programs. This position will require extensive knowledge of community/social service and workforce program design, implementation and evaluation. Ability to manage portfolio of grant funded programs requiring documentation, budget monitoring, results reporting, assessment and logic model development. Extensive project management experience is required. Knowledge of workforce development case management, data input and report retrieval i.e. Toolbox and MoJobs preferred. The successful candidate will possess a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Sociology, Education or related field (Masters a plus), excellent writing and presentation skills, competence in Microsoft software including: Word, Excel and Power Point). Email letter of application and resume by May 15, 2019 to careers@ stlarchs.org or Fax to HR, 314-289-5670. NO Phone Calls Please.

CONSERVATION INTERN

Great Rivers Greenway is seeking a Conservation Intern. Check https:// greatriversgreenway.org/ jobs-bids/ and submit by April 30, 2019.

POLICE OFFICER

The City of Richmond Heights is accepting applications for a Police Officer. To apply got to https://richmondheights. applicantpro.com/jobs/1037709.html by Friday, April 19, 2019.

HEAD OF YOUTH SERVICES DEPARTMENT

DATA

Provide analytical and technical support to the Chief Risk & Predictive Analytics Officer. To apply, please visit: https://www. safetynational.com/careers-page/

DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMS

The Director of Programs is responsible for performance and successful results of all mission related operations with oversight of youth outcomes, program delivery, personnel development and financial performance in the Residential and Support Services Departments. To apply, visit our website at www.covenanthousemo.org

Provide

and technical support

administration, maintenance and reporting of agent/broker licensing, appointments and terminations. Provide administrative and technical support relative to claims compliance administration, reporting, and regulatory audit functions To apply, please visit: https://www. safetynational.com/careers-page/

SEALED BIDS

Sealed bids for the St. Louis County Library – Phase 3A Genealogy and Administration Building project are being received by Brinkmann Constructors on May 10 at 3:30 PM

All sealed bids to be hand delivered to SLCL HQ Auditorium 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63131 Attn Steve Hunter, St Louis County Library

Plans may be viewed or downloaded at https://secure.smartinsight.co/#/ PublicBidProject/440965

There will be a pre-bid/ outreach and site walk-through meeting on May 3 at 11:30 AM at SLCL HQ Auditorium 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63131

Contact Brinkmann Constructors for further details on the project or obtaining plans at 636-537-9700

*All bidders must be in compliance with the Fair Employment Practices Commission

*This project is a Missouri Public Works Project

*St. Louis County Library & Brinkmann Constructors are Equal Opportunity Employers

METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS

SEWER DISTRICT

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is accepting proposals in the Purchasing Division, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103-2555 until 10:00 a.m. on May 28th, 2019 to contract with a company for: Security System Maintenance Services. Specifications and bid forms may be obtained from www.stlmsd.com, click on the “MSD AT WORK” link, (bid opportunities). The bid document will be identified as 9945 RFP. If you do not have access to the internet, call 314.768.2735 to request a copy of this bid.

Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

DRAFT RFP POSTING

St. Louis County Department of Human Services

FY2019 Cooling Shelter Request For Proposal

The St. Louis County Department of Human Services, Homeless Services Program, is seeking proposals for the St. Louis County FY19 Cooling Shelter. The total funding available is approximately $65,000.00. Proposals are due by 11:00 a.m. on May 17, 2019. A Pre-Proposal Conference will be held on May 3, at 10:00-11:00 a.m. @ the Department of Human Services. Request For Proposal details and specifications can be obtained at the St. Louis County Bids and RFPs webpage located at http://www.stlouisco.com/ YourGovernment/BidsandRFPs

METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS SEWER DISTRICT

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is accepting proposals in the Purchasing Division, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103-2555 until 10:00 a.m. on June 13th, 2019 to contract with a company for: Critical Infrastructure Assessment & Investigation Services.

Specifications and bid forms may be obtained from www.stlmsd.com, click on the “MSD AT WORK” link, (bid opportunities). The bid document will be identified as 9951 RFP. If you do not have access to the internet, call 314.768.2735 to request a copy of this bid. Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Public Notice of Single Source Procurement

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure: SL-RAT. The District is proposing single source procurement to InfoSense, Inc for this equipment. Any inquiries should be sent to ameyer@stlmsd.com.

Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Public Notice of Single Source Procurement

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure: CUES OZII Camera, Transporter, and Wheel Kit. The District is proposing single source procurement to EJ Equipment for this equipment. Any inquiries should be sent to ameyer@stlmsd.com.

Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS SEWER DISTRICT

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District will receive RFQ’s in the Purchasing Division, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103-2555 until 10:00 a.m. on May 29, 2019 to contract with a company for: ORACLE E-BUSINESS SUITE LICENSES. Specifications and bid forms may be obtained from www.stlmsd.com, click on the “MSD AT WORK” link, (bid opportunities). The bid document will be identified as 9946 RFQ. If you do not have access to the internet, call 314.768.2735 to request a copy of this bid.

Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

CITY OF ST. LOUIS ST. LOUIS LAMBERT INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Solicitation For Bids (SFB) for Boiler Control and Repair Services Bids Wanted

Bid documents may be obtained at St. Louis Lambert International Airport, Airport Properties Division, Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., or by calling (314) 890-1802. This SFB may also be obtained by visiting our website at www.flystl.com/ business/contract-opportunites.

Robert Salarano

Airport Properties Division Manager

INVITATION TO BID

Tarlton Corporation, 5500 West Park Avenue, St. Louis MO 63110 is soliciting bids on the Ground Transportation Center Renovation project for the City of St. Louis, Board of Public Service located at St. Louis Lambert International Airport.

The work will consist of the renovation of the existing building and constructing two small additions to the existing building as well as removal and replacement of existing parking lot, along with site utility, irrigation and landscape upgrades.

Tarlton is soliciting subbids on the following work categories: Final cleaning, demolition, concrete, concrete rebar,, structural steel, rough carpentry, roofing, waterproofing, siding fiber cement, flashings, aluminum framed storefronts, doors frames and hardware, acoustical ceilings, epoxy flooring, flooring, gypsum board, painting, tiling, fire protection specialties, signage, toilet partitions & bathroom accessories, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, asphalt, earthwork, chain link fencing, landscaping, plant screen system, planting irrigation, site concrete, site furnishings, and storm utility drainage.

The Minority/Women Business Enterprise (W/WBE) goal for this emergency agreement is “Maximum Utilization or MBE and WBE”. Maximum Utilization is deemed to have been met when any subcontracting or supplies equal a minimum of 25% MBE plus 5% WBE of the value of the prime contract. Please note this project is in accordance with the Mayor’s Executive Order No. 28.

Subbids are due at 12:00 p.m. on May 20, 2018. These may be emailed to bids@tarltoncorp.com. Any questions please contact Scott Snyders at 314.633.3358 or SWSnyders@tarltoncorp.com.

It is our desire to provide meaningful opportunities or minority-owned (MBE) and women-owned (WBE) businesses to participate to complete for our clients. Firms that do not have MBE/ WBE status are strongly encouraged to include MBE/WBE firms in their cost Additionally, we work to enhance diversity through the workforce, or “boots on the ground” which serves to increase the representation of women and minorities, apprentices and St. Louis City residents.

Bid documents may be viewed at: https://app.buildingconnected. com/public/55b2997ad17b3807006f2618

Tarlton is an equal opportunity employer.

Public Notice of Single Source Procurement

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is confirming procurement: CIP Manhole Bag Liners (Alternative Lining Technologies – Change Order #3. The District is confirming single source procurement to Ace Pipe Cleaning for this equipment and service. Any inquiries should be sent to ameyer@stlmsd.com.

Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS

SEWER DISTRICT

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District will receive sealed bids in the Purchasing Division, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103-2555 until 10:00am June 3, 2019 for: MAGNETIC FLOW METERS

Specifications and bid forms may be obtained from www.stlmsd.com - click on “MSD At Work”, then “Bidding on Projects”. The bid document will be identified as 9954 RFQ. If you do not have access to the internet, call (314) 7686314 to request a copy of this bid.

Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS

SEWER DISTRICT

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District will receive RFQ’s in the Purchasing Division, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103-2555 until 11:00 a.m. on June 4, 2019 to contract with a company for: FILTERS – LIGHT/MEDIUM/HEAVY DUTY/OFF HIGHWAY EQUIPMENT/ INDUSTRIAL. Specifications and bid forms may be obtained from www.stlmsd.com, click on the “MSD AT WORK” link, (bid opportunities). The bid document will be identified as 9955 RFQ. If you do not have access to the internet, call 314-768-6254 to request a copy of this bid.

Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

The St. Louis Economic Development Partnership (the “Partnership”) solicits proposals for a qualified firm to provide general maintenance, repair, and property management services for certain Partner- ship-owned properties, on an as needed basis for up to one year.

To be considered, proposals must be received no later than 3:00 PM CST on Thursday, May 23, 2019. Proposals should be sent by email to hbean@stlpartnership.com, or to St. Louis Economic Development Partnership, ATTN: Howl Bean II, 7733 Forsyth Blvd., Suite 2200, St. Louis, Missouri 63105. DBE, MBE, and WBE consultants are encouraged to bid, and a five percent bid preference may be available to certified MBE firms.

The complete Request for Proposals may be obtained from the Partnership’s web site at www.stlpartnership. com. The Partnership reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive informalities therein. Any questions should be directed to Howl Bean II at (314) 615-7663 or hbean@stlpartnership.com. St. Louis Economic Development Partnership Equal Opportunity Employer

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE/ PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD

East-West Gateway Council of Governments seeks comment on Connected2045, the St. Louis Region’s longrange transportation plan, the State of the System Report and related Air Quality Conformity Document. The public comment period runs from Wednesday, May 8, 2019 until Friday, June 7, 2019 during which time all documents will be posted on www.ewgateway.org and available for v iewing at One South Memorial Drive, Ste. 1600, St. Louis, MO 63102.

The public is also invited to view, discuss and comment on these documents and supporting materials at a series of in-person meetings. Comments will be taken at the meetings and by email. The open houses will be held:

Monday, May 13, 2019 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

The Heights 8001 Dale Ave, St. Louis, MO 63117

Monday, May 20, 2019 2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Metro East Park & Recreation District 104 United Drive, Collinsville, IL 62234

Persons requiring special accommodations should notify Roz Rodgers at least 48 hours prior to the meeting at 314-421-4220 or 618-274-2750 or email titlevi@ewgateway.org.

All comments on the documents must be received or postmarked by Friday, June 7, 2019. Send comments to LRP@ewgateway.org or East-West Gateway Council of Governments, One South Memorial Drive, Suite 1600, St. Louis, MO 63102, Attn: Connected2045.

Questions? Contact Peter Koeppel 314-421-4220 or 618274-2750 or email LRP@ewgateway.org.

in order to submit a bid in the name of the entity submitting the bid. The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

Notice is hereby given that The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District (District) will receive sealed bids for Wyoming St. #6315 Combined Sewer Repair (IR) under Letting No. 13137015.1, at this office, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103, until 02:00 PM on Tuesday, June 04, 2019, at a place designated.

Bids will be received only from companies that are pre-qualified by the District’s Engineering Department for: SEWER CONSTRUCTION – St. Louis CITY drainlayer’s license required Plans and Specifications are available for free electronic download. Please go to MSD’s website and look for a link to “ELECTRONIC PLANROOM.” Plans and Specifications are also available for viewing or purchase at Cross Rhodes Reprographics located at 1712 Macklind Avenue, St. Louis MO 63110. All bidders must obtain a set of plans and specifica- tions in order to submit a bid in the name of the entity submitting the bid. The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Sealed proposals will be received by the Board of Public Service, Room 208, City Hall, 1200 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri, 63103 until 1:45 PM, CT, on June 4, 2019, then publicly opened and read. Plans and Specifications may be examined on the Board of Public Service website http:// www.stl bps.org/planroom (BPS On Line Plan Room) and may be purchased directly through the BPS website from INDOX Services at cost plus shipping. No refunds will be made.

Bidders shall comply with all applicable City and State laws (including DBE/MBE/WBE policies). Mandatory pre-bid meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 14, 2019, at 10:00 A.M. in the Ozark Conference Room (A0-4066) at the Airport Office Building, 11495 Navaid Rd., Bridgeton, MO 63044.

All bidders must regard Federal Executive Order 11246, “Notice of Requirement for Affirmative Action to Ensure Equal Employment Opportunity”, the Equal Opportunity Clause” and the “Standard Federal Equal Employment Specifications” set forth within and referenced at www.stl-b ps.org (Virtual Plan Room).

Repairs, Missouri S t

w a y Patrol, General Headquarters, 1510 E. Elm St. Jefferson City, MO 65101, Project No. R1704-01 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, May 30, 2019.For specific project information and ordering plans, go to: http://oa.mo. gov/ facilities

LETTING #8685 P.A. SYSTEM REPLACEMENT –PHASE III At St. Louis Lambert International Airport

Sealed proposals will be received by the Board of Public Service in Room 208 City Hall, 1200 Market Street, St. Louis, Mo. Until 1:45 PM, CT, on Tuesday, May 21, 2019 then publicly opened and read. Plans and Specifications may be examined on the Board of Public Service website http:// www.stl-bps.org/planroom.aspx (BPS On Line Plan Room) and may be purchased directly through the BPS website from INDOX Services at cost plus shipping. No refunds will be made.

Bidders shall comply with all applicable City, State and Federal laws (including MBE/WBE policies). Mandatory pre-bid meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 30, 2019, at 1:30 PM in the Ozark Conference Room at the Airport Office Building, 11495 Navaid Rd., Bridgeton, MO 63044. All bidders must regard Federal Executive Order 11246, “Notice of Requirement for Affirmative Action to Ensure Equal Employment Opportunity”, the “Equal Opportunity Clause” and the “Standard Federal Equal Employment Specifications” set forth within and referenced at www.stl-bps.org (Announcements).

LETTING #8694

TERMINAL 1 AND 2 PARKING FACILITY STRUCTURAL REPAIRS AT ST. LOUIS LAMBERT INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Sealed proposals will be received by the Board of Public Service in Room 208 City Hall, 1200 Market Street, St. Louis, Mo. Until 1:45 PM, CT, on June 4, 2019 then publicly opened and read. Plans and Specifications may be examined on the Board of Public Service website http://www.stlbps.org/planroom.aspx (BPS On Line Plan Room) and may be purchased directly through the BPS website from INDOX Services at cost plus shipping. No refunds will be made. Bidders shall comply with all applicable City, State and Federal laws (including MBE/WBE policies). Mandatory pre-bid meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 14, 2019, at 1:30 PM in the Ozark Conference Room at the Airport Office Building, 11495 Navaid Rd., Bridgeton, MO 63044. All bidders must regard Federal Executive Order 11246, “Notice of Requirement for Affirmative Action to Ensure Equal Employment Opportunity”, the “Equal Opportunity Clause” and the “Standard Federal Equal Employment Specifications” set forth within and referenced at www.stl-bps.org (Announcements).

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

The Industrial Development Authority of the County of St. Louis, Missouri (the “IDA”) solicits proposals from qualified legal professional services firms to serve as issuer’s counsel for the issuance of revenue bonds on an as needed basis. The issuer’s counsel will be responsible to draft various corporate resolutions and to review various financing documents. To be considered, proposals must be received no later than 3:00 PM CST on Thursday, May 23, 2019. Proposals should be sent by email to hbean@stlpartnership.com, or to Industrial Development Authority, c/o St. Louis Economic Development Partnership, ATTN: Howl Bean II, 7733 Forsyth Blvd., Suite 2200, St. Louis, Missouri 63105. DBE, MBE, and WBE consultants are encouraged to bid, and a five percent bid preference may be available to certified MBE firms.

The complete Request for Qualifications may be obtained at www.stlpartnership.com. The IDA reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive informalities therein. Any questions should be directed to Howl Bean II at (314) 615-7663 or hbean@stlpartnership.com.

St. Louis Economic Development Partnership Equal Opportunity Employer

Solicitation For Bids (SFB) for Banking Concession

Bids Wanted

Bid documents may be obtained at St. Louis Lambert International Airport, Airport Properties Division, Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., or by calling (314) 426-8189. This SFB may also be obtained by visiting our website at www.flystl.com/ business/contract-opportunites.

Robert Salarano

Airport Properties Division Manager

Public Notice of Single Source Procurement

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure temporary help services from Jupiter Consulting Services in an effort to support the IT Technology Plan. The District is proposing single source procurement for this service because it does not have the internal expertise to fulfill this Information Technology role.

Any inquiries should be sent to strenz@stlmsd.com. Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Request for Proposal # 57819108 for

NOTICE TO BID

Notice is hereby given that the City of Richmond Heights, MO will be accepting sealed bids for the demolition of three (3) single-family homes, including necessary asbestos abatement as detailed in ATC Report Project #196CRH1901 dated April

Please note that the demolition of the building at 1309 Laclede Station Road is contingent upon the City obtaining ownership of the property, which is estimated to be on or about April 30, 2019.

The Bids may be returned either electronically (email) or delivered to City Hall in sealed envelopes.

• If returned electronically, please email to the Office of the City Manager, Amy Hamilton at ahamilton@richmondheights.org Please type: SEALED BIDS in the subject line and attach all documents.

• If returned by regular mail or hand delivered: Bids must be sealed in envelopes and clearly marked “SEALED BIDS” in the lower left hand corner of the envelope. All bids are to be submitted to the Office

INVITATION TO BID

McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer.

Saint Louis Zoo 2019 Alterations, Repairs and Demolition, Saint Louis Zoo North Campus RFQ

The scope of the project includes: Design services to create bid documents for environmental remediation and demolition of existing buildings, grading, storm drainage, waterproofing and repairs to existing buildings Roof repairs, re-roofing, masonry repair, building envelope commissioning, building envelope repair Office building renovation, repairs; Code analysis, ADA study, three stop hydraulic elevator installation, office power, lighting and communication system improvements, carpet, painting, re-glazing.

Saint Louis Zoo 2019 Alterations, Repairs to Historic Hill Buildings RFQ

This project will include design services for the repair and replacement of roofing, replacement of existing skylights in all three buildings, repairs to pavement and façade features at the Bird House, and the replacement of the solarium at the Herpetarium.

MANDATORY PRE-BID MEETING & SITE

INSPECTION: On 4/24/2019 at 10:00AM at The Living World building on Government Drive in Forest Park, Upper level. Sealed bids marked with project name will be accepted on or before 5/8/2019 at 11:00 AM. Documents can be found on 4/18/2019 at: https://www.stlzoo.org/about/contact/vendoropportunities/

Short-Term Lease Student Housing Harris-Stowe State University (HSSU) is requesting proposals to provide short-term lease student housing. Interested parties may obtain a copy of the RFP by faxing a written request to HSSU, Attention: B. A. Morrow, (314) 340-3322; sending an email to: morrowb@hssu.edu, or by calling (314) 340-5763 and leaving the company name, address and telephone #. Proposals must be received no later than 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 15, 2019 and should be mailed or delivered in sealed envelopes clearly marked “Proposal for Short-Term Lease Student Housing”, Harris-Stowe State University, Dr. Henry Givens, Jr., Administration (HGA) building, ATTN: B. A. Morrow, 3026 Laclede Avenue, Room 105, St. Louis, MO 63103. Proposals will be opened and the names read at 10:15 a.m. in room 123 of the HGA building. www.stlamerican.com

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE:

All persons are

informed that all

A Good girls night at the movies. The weekend began on a Wednesday for me with the girl’s night out sneak preview screening for “The Intruder” organized by my girl Mocha Latte at the Esquire. Now y’all know how I feel about working fresh off of deadline, but this evening was so worth it. Did I mention that the film’s star Meagan Good was in the building as well? She had a hat on thanks to St. Louis weather, but she is slaying with her platinum blonde tapered pixie cut. Life! Anyway, Mocha had that thing laid out – and managed to give black businesses some shine in the process. I had a ball for those few minutes. And Meagan was as sweet as she can be. I know folks give her the side eye because she wears form-fitting clothing or whatever. But listen, if I had her body, I can’t promise that my first lady attire would be one bit safe for church. What? Anyway, shout out to all the folks involved for making that movie event…well, a movie in its own right.

TMI with Marlon Wayans. I don’t have to tell y’all what a fool that Marlon Wayans is at this point. He has cut up on the big and small screen – and now he’s operating in reverse of his famous older brothers by taking to the standup stage after a successful run on film and TV. He headlined UMSL’s Mirthweek Comedy Show at the Touhill Friday night. He’s funny as all get out, but I can’t say that I can get with the graphic scenarios involving his mama, son and daughter that framed much of his material. Damon did the same thing the last time I saw him at the Funnybone. Loni Love, who replaced JessHilarious, was regular – but the host B. Irving, was life. I love getting a cackle from somebody I’ve never seen before . Be checking for him.

Tweet’s soulful turnup. Because I was at Marlon Wayans, I missed the opening entertainment for my girl Angel’s Night of Soul Searching Friday at the Ready Room. Please send my apologies to Bird and Terry – because I know they tore it up. By the time I arrived, Tweet had just got crackin’ – and was in the middle of becoming familiar with just how funky Angel’s potpourri of a house band is. I was so caught up in the breakdown, that I quickly got over the fact that Tweet’s fashion muse must be Blanche Devereaux from “The Golden Girls.” I’m talking wind suit material pantsuit and kitten heels realness! But she’s so gorgeous – and sounds so good that it works. And for the life of me I don’t understand how she and Charlie Wilson can to a whole show with gum in their mouth – and not miss and beat, note or groove. I got my life, though I must say that I was expecting a larger crowd for the Southern Hummingbird herself. It didn’t matter, because the turnup was the size of Madison Square Garden in that Ready Room!

Trap.Soul.Paint’s ten for ten. If I’ve learned anything these last couple of weeks, it’s that the turn up will be too legit to quit for anybody with the nerve to wear Pepto Bismol pink biker shorts. I thought it was just the Jeezy fangirl. But the wonderful woman who had the same attire – sans the fanny pack – had the same energy for Trap.Soul.Paint Sunday night at The House of Soul. She was too lit as she dropped it like it was hot after making her Neighborhood Nip portrait do what it do. I must say that while not surprised, I am amazed that the Café Soul crew have managed to have ten sold out Trap.Soul.Paint parties in a row. That’s pretty epic. This paint party is something you have to experience yourself to get a full grasp of the energy, please believe me. Now your path to your canvas and paint station might be impeded by an impromptu twerk session, but you just have to go with the flow. The next one will be happening the Sunday before Memorial Day. And I’m willing to bet they will be 11 for 11.

A PJ and Peter triumph. It was a great week to be a soul music lover in St. Louis – so much so that the fun spilled over into this week. Monday night, folks piled into the Old Rock House to catch PJ Morton’s “Keys and A Mic” Tour. As usual, PJ never disappoints. But can we please take a minute to talk about his show opener Peter Collins? I was perched upstairs with the church singer crowd – who seemed intent on talking and catching up through his set so that they could give PJ their undivided attention. That was until Peter gave them his first vocal run. By the time he got to covering Ms. Lauryn Hill and Alicia Keys it was game over. I thought “American Idol” finalist Curtis Finch Jr. was going to head down the steps and head straight to the stage just to deliver a “Sing, sir!” PJ Morton never misses, and Monday was no exception. I’m still trying to find the woman who hopped on stage for the “Love You More” duet. Girl, who are you and where have you been hiding?

Emily was King. The glorious soul music that made its way to the Lou closed out on Tuesday with my girl Emily King. I saw her either last year or the year before at The Ready Room for an incredible acoustic set. But she brought the spirit of Prince – and lowkey the King of Pop too – with her to Delmar Hall. Listen… every move was orchestrated, and every sound was pitch perfect. I’m hoping that finally – after all these years – the mainstream will start to pay attention to what Emily has to offer. I hate that she didn’t perform “U & I,” but that is my only note. And her opening act Jennah Bell has the voice of an angel. Shout out to Emily, PJ and Tweet for being secure enough in their own talent to give us some stellar opening folks!

R&B veterans Terry and Bird with Tweet, the latest headliner for Angel’s Night of Soul Searching Friday night @ The Ready Room

Tef Poe and DJ AJ were in the building as Best Wardrobe Solutions celebrated their ‘Shark Tank’ appearance with a special watch party Sunday @ City Hall

Keshia, Shailee, KK and Jennifer were part of the crowd that kept the party jumping at Trap.Soul. Paint Sunday @ House of Soul

Tweet fans Elemuelle, Terrence and Kyle had a chance to get up close and personal with the soul songstress Friday night @ The Ready Room

The Witherspoon siblings were in the building to show support for Maranda’s Black Funders of St. Louis on its two-year anniversary Thursday @ The Corner

Ced was the host for his customer appreciation day party that showed love to regulars like Nate Saturday @ Bar Code

Jamila and Cornell Boone served up their finest eats to the Black Funders of St. Louis Thursday evening @ The Corner

Missy, Becky and Stephanie ended their weekend with the a eat and chill session @ Gauge Sunday afternoon

Model and television personality Tai Beauchamp came to town to show support for Cedric Cobb at his ‘Shark Tank’ viewing party Sunday night @ City Hall

Krista and Jocelyn enjoyed the energy and the music @ A Night of Soul Searching starring Tweet Friday night @ The Ready Room

Mocha Latte, KMOX’s Carol Daniel with film and television star Meagan Good, who was on hand for a special preview screening of her new movie ‘The Intruder,’ which hits theaters May 3. Photo by Tom Paule

Business

Jones banks city money with Regions and Busey banks

Plans to raise minimum wages for

her office staff to $15 per hour

By Chris King Of The St.

Louis

American

Regions Bank will now handle the City of St. Louis’ payroll funds and Busey Bank will handle the city’s parking operation funds, St. Louis Treasurer Tishaura O. Jones announced last week. The new accounts will open in the coming months.

“As the city’s chief banking officer, I use my position to get the best deals for the city and our residents,” Jones said in a statement. “I always say ‘show me the data.’ We are happy to work with partners like Regions Bank and Busey Bank who support the city and financially empower the public. They put their money where their mouth is.” The city used a competitive RFP process to ensure strong benefits for the city before choosing institutions. The new agreements include interest on the city’s deposits, likely to generate an increase of more than $100,000 annually, Jones said.

Regions will also provide new services for

By Pam Weston For The

n “A $15 minimum wage helps retain good employees and provide better service to the people of St. Louis. And we are providing not just jobs, but family-sustaining careers.

– St. Louis Treasurer Tishaura O. Jones

help them save more money, plan for their future and achieve true financial security. We are proud to grow our collaboration with the St. Louis City Treasurer’s Office through this initiative and believe that our teamwork approach will benefit thousands of families across St. Louis.”

Brian Bjorkman, executive vice president and Busey’s regional president in St. Louis, said the bank uses the Office of Financial Empowerment

“to identify and bridge the needs of our neighbors in St. Louis as we work hand-in-hand in our communities to create positive, lasting change where we live and work.”

Everyone is talking about it, but are managers listening? city employees, including waiving credit checks to help unbanked employees open bank accounts and build their credit. Both banks will continue to conduct public education programs through the Office of Financial Empowerment.

St. Louis American

Can you hear me now?

Verizon introduced this catchy slogan in 2002. Consumers and the general public were definitely listening during the nine-year campaign. Engagement was high as the phrase showed up nearly everywhere in addition to the commercials that the company produced to promote its wireless network strength. In the workplace, engagement among employees doesn’t seem to catch on so easily. There is a disconnect between what employees are saying and how managers are responding. Most organizations invest time and resources

“Delivering financial education is one of the most powerful ways Regions Bank can serve our community and support our city’s employees,” said Mike Hart, Greater St. Louis market executive for Regions.

“We can connect people with information to

To find out about public financial empowerment opportunities, visit the Treasurer’s Office of Financial Empowerment at stlofe.org.

Jones plans to raise minimum wages for office staff

Jones also plans to raise minimum wages for

to conduct employee surveys annually or biannually. It’s a well-orchestrated process transpiring over a course of several months led by human resources, internal communications, or external consultants. A great deal of care is taken to ensure confidentially for employees. Incentives are offered throughout the process in hopes of gaining the best response rates. Some companies go a step further and follow up with pulse surveys on specific feedback received from employees.

We can all agree that this is a huge commitment from all involved. Even with all of these efforts, however, employee engagement remains low.

In fact, the current Gallup “State of the American Workplace” report indicates that only 33 percent of U.S. employees are engaged. It goes on to report, “If employees don’t have great managers, if they don’t know what’s expected of them or if they are not in roles that match their talents, then the longest possible list of perks is not going to be a cure-all.”

So, what is the call to action for leaders? This is where listening comes into play.

See WESTON, D6

People On The Move

Brenda Newberry will receive the honorary Doctorate of Business Administration from Webster University at its 2019 Commencement on Saturday, May 11. She is an author, public speaker and writer on diverse business, board, leadership and life management topics. She is the retired CEO, chairman and founder of The Newberry Group, a technology infrastructure, networking and cyber security firm, and is a former vice president with MasterCard International.

Chester Asher is the new executive director of North Side Community School. As a principal and assistant principal, he led a charter high school in the South Bronx that served students coming from incarceration, homeless shelters and foster homes. He has taught in every grade K-12 in the New York City public schools. His charge is to grow North Side from its current enrollment of 480 students to serve 650 students by 2021.

Valeda Keys is one of the 2019 Women of Achievement, which honors outstanding female volunteers and leaders in the St. Louis community. She will be recognized for Health Advocacy. A two-time breast cancer survivor, she is the founder and unpaid executive director of Valeda’s Hope. This organization is dedicated to increasing awareness of breast cancer through education and early detection, providing mammograms, nurturing services, massages, manicures, physical therapy, emotional therapy, and genetic services for those in need.

Jerome M. Dickerson joined Kwame Building Group, Inc. as project engineer. Dickerson works on KWAME’s pre-K through higher education projects. His responsibilities include project budgeting and estimating, contractor and subcontractor communications, site management and responding to RFIs and submittals. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Construction Science from Prairie View A&M University.

Gail Sharpe has been promoted to program director for Afterschool at Provident Behavioral Health. She has been a leader in the department for two years and will now oversee all dayto-day operations as well as create the vision for how the program will evolve to meet the children’s needs.

Kristopher Weston was promoted to the rank of sergeant in the St. Louis County Police Department by Police Chief Jon Belmar. He joined the department in 2011 with prior military experience and is currently assigned to the Bureau of Drug Enforcement. He previously served in the North County Precinct. He earned his Associate’s Degree in Marketing from Southwestern Illinois College. On the move? Congratulations! Send your good professional news and a color headshot to cking@stlamerican. com

Gail Sharpe Chester Asher

Kristopher Weston

Jerome M. Dickerson

Brenda Newberry

Valeda Keys

Pam Weston

St. Louis Treasurer Tishaura O. Jones, Regions Bank Greater St. Louis Market Executive Mike Hart, Alderwoman Sharon Tyus, 1st Financial Federal Credit Union CEO Carol Minges, and St. Louis public school students who received College Kids scholarships at a recent event.

By Chris King Of The St. Louis American

The top executive officers at three local companies have been awarded business development scholarships from Ameren Corporation to attend the Minority Business Executive Program at the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire.

The three minority-owned businesses selected – Cory Elliott, president of CMT LLC; Kevin Edwards, president of Edwards-Kamadulski; and Lus Haberberger, president, LUZCO Technologies, LLC –are headquartered in St. Louis and East St. Louis, Illinois. CMT, LLC, a female minority-owned business enterprise, is a full-service commercial construction firm. As a roofing contractor, it is capable of handling all roofing needs, specializing in flat roofing applications including EPDM, TPO, APP, SBS and BUR applications. The company also performs steep applications including slate, tile and commercial shingles.

“Learning techniques to effectively operate and grow my business will be critical to CMT’s success now and in the future,” Elliott said.

Ameren sends minority suppliers to Dartmouth

Cory Elliott, Kevin Edwards and Lus Haberberger are off to Minority Business Executive Program

Edwards-Kamadulski, a minority-owned business enterprise, specializes in site preparation, earth moving, excavation, site sewer, site utilities, concrete construction, street improvements and highway and bridge construction.

“This is a great opportunity that many small businesses may never get,” said Edwards. “Attending the minority

business program at Dartmouth will help me learn additional skills like strategic planning and financial controls so we can strengthen our ability to

compete in the market.”

LUZCO Technologies, LLC, a female minority-owned business, is an electrical engineering consulting firm offering project management services, engineering design services and transmission and distribution engineering services.

“I cannot thank Ameren enough for investing its time and resources to help LUZCO and its employees become the best leaders we can be,” said Haberberger. “We are blessed to have Ameren’s support. This scholarship will strengthen our strategic development plan for growth which translates to more opportunities for contributing back to the city of St. Louis.”

The recipients were chosen based on their strategic relationship with Ameren and the suppliers’ success in providing service to companies

n “Attending the minority business program at Dartmouth will help me learn additional skills like strategic planning and financial controls so we can strengthen our ability to compete in the market.”

– Kevin Edwards, president of EdwardsKamadulski

in Ameren’s 64,000-squaremile service territory.

“Ameren is proud to support the continued advancement of diverse-owned businesses, not only by partnering with them on direct opportunities, but by

truly helping them develop into successful businesses with a strong business Acumen foundation,” said Pardeep Gill, vice president of supply chain and chief procurement officer at Ameren.

“This unique and special opportunity with Dartmouth is an opportunity for Ameren to invest in minority suppliers through education which can be more powerful than any other investment.”

Since 2009, Ameren has awarded 20 business scholarships to diverse-owned businesses. In addition, each year the company invites hundreds of entrepreneurs and diverse businesses to attend symposiums and summits where participants can network and learn about Ameren’s procurement opportunities. The company finished 2018 with $624 million in total spending with diverse suppliers.

The recipients of Ameren Corporation’s scholarships to attend the Minority Business Executive Program at the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College were chosen based on their strategic relationship with Ameren and the suppliers’ success in providing service to companies in Ameren’s 64,000-square-mile service territory.

n “I just want a fair chance, call the game how it’s supposed to be called, and that’s it.”

Sports

TraCk & F

Ield

noTebook

Ritter’s relay show-stopping

Lions’ 4X400 relay team posted one of fastest times in the U.S.

It was a cold and rainy day at last weekend’s Dale Collier Invitational at Kirkwood, but that did not stop the athletes from putting on some sparkling performances.

The real show-stopping performance of the meet came from Cardinal Ritter’s 4x400-meter relay team of Jaden Williams, Lee Steward, Jameson Williams and Hasani Barr, who turned in an incredible time of 3 minutes 13.15 seconds, which is one of the fastest times in the country.

The Lions also won the 4x200-meter relay in 1:28.43 with Jameson Williams turning in an explosive anchor leg to overtake Rock Bridge in the final 50 meters. Barr finished first in the 400-meter dash in 49.66 seconds and senior Rasheed Ricketts won the triple jump with an effort of 47 feet 7 inches.

The East St. Louis Flyerettes won the girls’ team championship in convincing style as they dominated the sprint relays.

The Flyerettes won the 4x100 in 49.74 seconds, the 4x200 in 1:44.6 and the 4x400 in an impressive time of 3:54.39. Jariah Turner won the 400 while Veronica Sherrod and Maysha Vickers finished first and second in the 300-meter low hurdles.

It was also an impressive day for the host Kirkwood Pioneers as senior Cooper Wise won the high jump by clearing 6 feet 8 inches. Wise also finished second in the triple jump with a 45-3. Senior distance runner Christian Baker was a double winner as he finished first in the 1,600 and 3,200-meter runs. The Pioneers’ girls also finished first in the 4x800-meter relay. McCluer North’s dynamic duo of Michelle Owens and Lauryn Taylor also took home firstplace finishes in their respective events. Owens finished first in the 100-meter high hurdles while Taylor took home first in the 100-meter dash.

A trio of talented freshman girls made their presence known with some impressive victories. Brooke Moore of Trinity won the triple

UnFloppable Force

James Harden’s foul ways are hurting the Rockets

While much of the basketball world is debating whether Kevin Durant has finally surpassed LeBron James as the best all-around player in the NBA, one thing remains indisputable. James Harden is the most talented offensive player on the planet. Though he may not possess the height of the nearly 7-foot-tall Durant, Harden’s game doesn’t look up to anyone. Besides Steph Curry, who helped usher in the bombs away mindset of the current NBA, no player has impacted the league’s current style of play more than “The Beard.” The Houston Rockets’ guard may not have invented the step-back three-pointer, but he certainly has perfected it. According to the NBA’s advanced statistics, Harden led the league (in both makes and attempts) in step back three-pointers. He knocked down 212 of 542 during the 2018-19 regular season. In

spite of an added degree of difficulty, that’s an impressive 38.9 percent clip.

Other free-shooting NBA stars were not even in the same solar system in terms of the step back three. Curry converted 41 of 68 attempts (60.3 percent). Paul George converted 29 of 63 attempts (46 percent). Damian Lillard converted on 16 of 44 attempts (36.4 percent). Nobody comes close to shooing or making as many step backs as Harden. It is clear though that everybody in the league is trying to get in on the fun. It’s as if Oprah walked into the players’ lounge and started handing out step backs to everybody on an NBA roster.

“You get a step back! He gets a step back! Everybody gets a step back!”

Even centers such as Brook Lopez and Joel Embiid are breaking out the step back trey on a regular basis. You

— Houston Rockets Star

James Harden

Earl Austin Jr.

Ishmael H. Sistrunk

27, 2019. George Monroe (right) from Hickman High School

Blue Springs’ Stefan Black (left) finished 5th at 11.36.

Photo by Wiley Price

SportS EyE

With Alvin A. Reid

Broncos giving Lock a shot; Did race play a role in Giants’ QB pick?

Drew Lock, the former Missouri quarterback who was slated to be a first-round pick in last week’s NFL draft, is headed to the Denver Broncos.

But first, he waited around. Then, he waited around. In fact, Thursday’s first round came and went without his name bring called. He spent the night in Nashville with no idea where he would be playing.

Friday night came and Lock, again, waited around.

After passing on him twice, the Broncos moved up to select him in the second round. It was hardly a glowing recommendation, but Lock has a shot to be a star or a bust. We should all be so talented and lucky. With the Broncos acquiring former Baltimore Ravens quarterback and Super Bowl champion Joe Flacco earlier this season, GM John Elway told ESPN, “Drew will come in and compete for the backup job.”

him really talking the game of football. Because you don’t win a Super Bowl by not knowing football, that just doesn›t happen, he knows what he›s doing, he›s a great quarterback. To be able to learn from a guy like that, work on the things I need to work on, who wouldn›t like that?”

NFL scouting authority Chris Landry called Lock, “fool’s gold,” in a podcast with KMOX broadcaster Mike Claiborne. One pre-draft website listed Lock and Seattle Seahawks second-round draftee receiver D.K. Metcalf, “the two riskiest picks in the draft.”

Of course, locally, the spin is that Lock will team with Elway to become the next Tom Brady – and that he will be starter this season.

Then, Elway’s critique got a bit harsh.

“With what we’re going to do offensively, he’s going to have a lot of work to do. I think technique is always a big thing. We talk about accuracy and accuracy a lot of times comes down to technique and throwing on rhythm. We believe he has a ton of talent, but we also believe he has a lot left to work on,” said Elway, who added that part of Lock’s problem was he operated from Mizzou’s spread offense.

Lock said being a backup will be “an adjustment,” but he looks forward to working with Flacco.

“(I’ll be) getting in the film room with him, getting around

101 ESPN’s Anthony Stalter said Monday that Lock will be the most successful of the three quarterbacks selected before him; Kyler Murray, the top pick in the draft by the Arizona Cardinals, Daniel Jones, the surprise No. 6 selection of the New York Giants and Dwayne Haskins, who went at No. 15 to the Washington Redskins. I mean no insult to the other hosts there, but I think Stalter is the best. But I also think he’s wearing his homerism on his sleeve.

Good luck to Lock. He’s going to need it.

Black elephant in the room

One of the most frustrating parts of being a black sportswriter, broadcaster or fan is when your initial response to

something seems clear to you, but is ignored by the masses.

The Giants began hinting that they would take former Duke QB Daniel Jones at No. 6 and let former Ohio State QB Dwayne Haskins, who many scouts and GMs said was the best QB in the draft, slip down the board.

Giants GM Dave Gettleman said Jones was his man and he wasn’t going to let a team jump ahead of him in the draft to select him. He said Monday “I know two teams that would have picked him ahead of us.”

The only two teams that had a need a quarterback and would have considered taking Jones were the Redskins and Broncos. Both teams made it clear they had no interest in him.

Gettleman has spent the last week defending his selection. He could have landed a topnotch defensive player and drafted Jones later in the first round.

The Giants staff knows a lot more than I do about drafting players and finding a future quarterback. But I have a hunch the Giants would not have selected Murray if he had been available, just as they didn’t take Haskins.

Drew Lock, the former Missouri quarterback who was slated to be a firstround pick in last week’s NFL draft, is headed to the Denver Broncos.

Two seasons ago, Eli Manning was playing terrible. It was obvious his best days were behind him. Soon-to-befired head coach Ben McAdoo and GM Jerry Reese decided it was time to give backup journeyman Geno Smith, who is black, a shot at starting. Then, rookie Davis Webb would get some playing time.

Giants fans went nuts. Many of the scathing attacks on Smith, who would never be mistaken for a great quarterback, were racial. Some fans were simply protective of Manning, but many weren’t ready for a black quarterback at the helm, and they made it clear.

The fact remains that, regardless of other black quarterbacks’ success, many white NFL fans just can’t get with it. With all his accomplishments, if the Dallas Cowboys traded quarterback Dak Prescott tomorrow, a large portion of the fan base would be relieved.

Former Redskins GM Charley Casserly was more than ready to pass on an anonymous GM’s charges that Murray was not strong at the intellectual pursuit of playing quarterback and that he lacked work ethic. These concerns were negated at every turn, but Casserly shared them on the NFL Network. It was disrespectful, but hey, it played right into the hands of some backward fans.

I’m not calling Casserly a racist. He stood by Super Bowl champion Doug Williams when he was GM and Williams became the team’s starter.

I am saying Casserly knew what he was repeating could

have been racially inspired and he didn’t care.

I think the Giants wanted to pick Manning’s future replacement in this draft. Skin color played a role in that selection.

Meanwhile in Washington

The Giants passed on Haskins and, as fate would have it, he ended up in the NFC East. The teams will play twice every season and Haskins is aware he’ll have multiple chances to prove to the Giants that a mistake was made.

“I’m just looking forward to being able to compete against those guys for the rest of my career,” he said following his selection.

Former Redskins All-Pro defensive back Shawn Springs, a Haskins mentor since his days of playing in high school in nearby Potomac, Maryland, warned the Giants that they will pay a price.

“He’s going to be a beast when he plays the Giants,” Springs told the Washington Post.

Haskins told the Post, “I clicked well with all the teams I visited.”

“I felt like the team that liked me the most was the Redskins. I could just tell by the vibe I got from all the teams. They loved me a little bit more. It all made sense.”

By the way, the aforementioned Doug Williams serves as Redskins senior vice president of player personnel and would certainly love to see a black quarterback lead his team back to a Super Bowl.

The Reid Roundup I guess it’s a good thing

Cardinals left fielder Marcell Ozuna was not chased out of town. He led the Cardinals with 10 home runs and 28 RBIs after Monday night’s win in Washington … The same is true for right fielder Dexter Fowler. Entering Monday’s game, Fowler was hitting .316 with an on-base percentage of .419 and an OPS of .850. He also ranked tenth among all National League position players in Win Against Replacement (WAR) … Hall of Famer and former Redskins quarterback Joe Theismann wants to talk to Dwayne Haskins about wearing his popular and retired No. 7 … Speaking of jerseys, I am now proud owner of a No. 12 Roger Staubach jersey. A gentleman and fellow Cowboys fan named Art, who is now in heaven, bequeathed it to me … The Kansas City Chiefs are going to cut the very troubled Tyreek Hill at some point soon ... The whining about officiating, especially in the Golden State vs. Houston series, is getting very tired … NBA Playoff ratings are down 18 percent after two weekends of games –LeBron James is the missing ingredient.

Alvin A. Reid was honored as the 2017 “Best Sports Columnist – Weeklies” in the Missouri Press Association’s Better Newspaper Contest and is a New York Times contributor. He is a panelist on the Nine Network program, Donnybrook, a weekly contributor to “The Charlie Tuna Show” on KFNS and appears monthly on “The Dave Glover Show” on 97.1 Talk.” His Twitter handle is #aareid1

Alvin A. Reid

inSide SPorTS

With Earl Austin Jr.

Game changer

Rich Gray changed St. Louis sports and sports talk

The St. Louis community lost an iconic figure last weekend when Rich Gray passed away last Friday at the age of 65. Rich was a tour de force in every aspect of St. Louis, plain and simple. He was a tremendous basketball coach, a fantastic businessman, a civic leader, a military veteran, a media trendsetter and so much more. Rich Gray had the golden touch with everything he involved himself in because of his vision, leadership and ability to handle people of all ages and from all walks of life.

CLUTCH

Continued from D3 ahead of the closest competitor. Harden’s season included a streak of 32-consecutive game scoring at least 30-points. The streak is second in league history, behind only Wilt Chamberlain’s 65-game run during the 1961-62 season. Harden’s step back game isn’t the only thing that sets him apart from others as a scorer. He also gets to the free throw line like no one else. He also led the NBA in free throw attempts this season with 858. Giannis Antetokounmpo was second with 686. Because it is nearly impossible for defenders to tell whether Harden is going to use his dribble to pull a step back three or attack the basket, he gets hacked far more than anybody else in the league. That’s where things get tricky.

Harden has gone full-Hollywood in terms of trying to get to the foul line. He is seemingly unsatisfied unless he gets to the free throw line after every single shot. How else can it be explained why Harden flails and falls like one of those inflatable tube thingies on nearly every shot when a defender is in close proximity?

The reigning NBA MVP’s incessant hunt for whistles it making it nearly impossible for

TRACK

Continued from D3

jump with an effort of 38 feet 1 inch, Kayelyn Tate of Parkway Central won the 200 in a school-record time of 24.8 seconds and Kiara Strayhorn of Jefferson City won the long jump with a personal best of 19 feet 5 inches.

Clayton Invitational Standouts

The Marion Freeman Clayton Invitational was held last Friday night. Junior Josh Robinson of Hazelwood West put on another spectacular

Rich changed the game in St. Louis on so many levels. Rich Gray’s accomplishments are way too many to list here in just one column, so I’ll just hit you with a few highlights from the sports perspective.

• He is well known as the founder of the St. Louis Eagles Basketball Club, which is one of the top grassroots basketball organizations in the country. As a coach, he guided the Eagles to multiple national championships while helping legions of young men and women earn collegiate scholarships.

• He represented his country as a coach for USA Basketball in helping a couple of youth teams win gold medals in international competition.

referees to officiate his games with any type of consistency or fluidity.

The Rockets organization cried foul after losing a close Game 1 in the Western Conference Semifinals to the Golden State Warriors. Harden hit the deck after several threepoint attempts where contact was made with the defender. On some of the shot attempts, the team had a fair gripe that the defender invaded Harden’s landing space. On others, it was Harden who initiated the contact by jumping forward, sideways or some other unnatural motion. The officials missed some of the same calls for Warriors’ shooters. Houston did not stop at complaining about the perceived non-calls though. The Rockets put together a memo that argued that poor officiating cost the team a trip to the Finals last year. The memo detailed a play-by-play analysis of the officiating during the Rockets’ Game 7 loss to the Warriors. The team’s (totally unbiased) conclusion was that poor officiating cost Houston nearly 19 points. The Rockets lost that game by nine points.

If the Rockets put as much effort into putting together a strategy to attack the Warriors defense as they have attacking NBA officials, maybe the team wouldn’t find itself down 0-2 right now.

That’s not to say that offi-

show as he won the 200-meter dash in a sizzling time of 20.98 seconds. Robinson has already clocked a 46.22 in the open 400-meter dash and a sub-45 second relay leg in the 4x400 earlier this season.

Hazelwood Central sprinter Danielle Frank was one of the top girls’ individuals at Clayton with victories in the 200 and 400. She won the 200 in 24.3 seconds and the 400 in 56.56 seconds. Pattonville’s girls were strong in the field events as Brooke Jenkins won the long jump with an 18-7 and the triple jump with a 37-10. Diamond Richardson won the shot put with an effort of 42-4. East St. Louis boys’ basketball standout Terrance Hargrove Jr. came out for

• He is the father of allsports talk radio when he started KASP in the early 1990’s.

• He was the president of the St. Louis Gateway Sports Foundation, an organization what was founded by his late father, Earl Wilson Jr.

On a personal note, this man meant everything to me as a teacher, mentor and big brother figure in my professional life. Rich Gray is the one man who is largely responsible for my career in radio. When I first met him nearly 30 years ago, I was a young sports writer who was following Rich, who was than an assistant coach at

Cardinal Ritter College Prep as well as the coach of this fledging AAU program called the St. Louis Eagles. Rich was the sales director at KMOX radio at the time and he took a liking to my work as a sportswriter, so he tried to get me to come over and do the weekend high school report on KMOX’s “Sports on a Sunday Morning.” Things didn’t work out on that end as KMOX went in another direction, but Rich told me not to worry about a thing. Soon after, he left KMOX to take over the leadership at KGLD-1380, but his vision was always to start the all-sports talk format in

St. Louis. A short time later, KASP was born and all-sports talk was “on and poppin’” in the St. Louis area. Rich started me off with a high school sports segment on its morning drive talk show that was hosted by my friends Mike Claiborne and Bob Ramsey. Soon, he had me hosting my own high school show on Saturday mornings and a weekly two-hour basketball show. He also put me on the post-game show for the Saint Louis University men’s basketball games, which were on KASP at the time. That led to my career as the Billikens’ radio color analyst, in which I have just completed by 28th season.

The funny thing about all this was that I never saw myself as a radio or television

cials are perfect. After all, Harden was poked in the eye by Draymond Green during Game 2 and did not get a foul call. I have to believe that if the refs weren’t so used to seeing Harden flop all over the court so often, he might have gotten a delayed call even if the official didn’t see the contact. If the Rockets want any chance of upsetting the Warriors in the playoffs, Harden will have to stop trying so hard to get foul calls and just try to make shots. His skillset will get him to the line more than any player in the league already. Embellishing contact on every play only makes officials swallow their whistles in hope of avoiding getting duped. It’s hard to tell if it’s a hard foul or a Harden flop.

track and field just a couple of weeks ago and has become an immediate impact performer in the high jump. Hargrove won the high jump by clearing 6’8” and barely missed his three attempts at 6’10.”

Small School districts

The Missouri Class 1 and 2 district meets will be held around the St. Louis area on Saturday. Many of the Class 2 schools in the St. Louis area will be competing in the district meet at Principia High. The top four finishers in each event will advance to the sectionals on May 10. The Lutheran South Invitational will be held on Saturday, beginning at 9 a.m.

The ST. LouiS AmericAn PreP AThLeTe of The Week

Danielle

Frank Hazelwood Central – Girls Track and Field

The senior sprinter was one of the top individual performers at last weekend’s Marion Freeman Clayton Invitational. Frank finished first in the 200and 400-meter dashes and turned in impressive times in winning both races. She won the 200 in a time of 24.3 seconds and the 400 in a time of 56.56. As a junior, Frank

all-state medals at the Class 5 state championships in Jefferson City. She finished fourth in the 200, sixth in the 400 and ran a leg on the Hawks state-championship 4x200-meter relay. Frank will be headed to Eastern Illinois University in the fall on a track and field scholarship.

guy. I fancied myself as a writer and not much else. Rich saw something different in me that I didn’t see in myself. He had so much confidence in me that I couldn’t do anything but succeed. I didn’t want to disappoint him. That was the true gift of Rich Gray as a man and as a visionary. He was so special because he had that magic touch with people. It didn’t matter if it was a group of high school All-American basketball players, a group of seasoned media professionals or a bunch of grade school girls’ basketball players. Everyone responded to his positive and confident form of leadership. We all love you and will miss you Rich Gray. You will never be forgotten.

Try counting how many times Harden falls to the floor after a missed shot (or complains to an official instead of getting back on defense) and allows a five-on-four opportunity for the Warriors.

As they saying goes, “Fool me once…” Here’s a free suggestion

for the analytics team who put together the Rockets’ “Mugger Report.” Try counting how

many times Harden falls to the floor after a missed shot (or complains to an official instead of getting back on defense) and allows a five-on-four opportunity for the Warriors. I’m not a Harden hater. I’d just hate to see Harden flop his way to a second-round exit. He should rely on his talents and teammates to beat the Warriors, not the referees.

Be sure to check In the Clutch online and also follow Ishmael on Twitter @ishcreates. Subscribe to The St. Louis American’s YouTube page to see weekly sports videos starring Ishmael and Melvin Moore at youtube.com/stlamericanvideo

Earl Austin Jr.

Rich Gray

JONES

continued from page D1

her office staff to $15 per hour in her budget for Fiscal Year 2020. The minimum wage increase would take effect for all departments she oversees, including Treasury, the Office of Financial Empowerment, and the Parking Division, which employs the largest number of workers.

She said the increase will help retain good employees and improve service during a strong labor market.

“Budgets are moral documents that reflect our values as a society. When I took over this office in 2013, employees were still making the federal minimum wage. We continue to invest in people

WESTON

continued from page D1

with living wages, financial empowerment programs, and service improvements,” Jones said in a statement. “A $15 minimum wage helps retain good employees and provide better service to the people of St. Louis. And we are providing not just jobs, but family-sustaining careers. This is the right thing to do to improve lives and improve service for the people of St. Louis.” Jones shared the following minimum wage timeline for the office:

2012: Many employees earn the minimum wage of $7.35, even those who had worked in the office for decades.

2013: Jones increased minimum wages to $8.25 for part-time and $8.75 for full-

n Now that you’ve heard from employees, you should accept the survey results without blaming. Take the next step and develop a plan to improve areas within your control.

Now that you’ve heard from employees, you should accept the survey results without blaming. Take the next step and develop a plan to improve areas within your control. The most important step is to act on it. Employees may become numb to the survey process and no longer provide honest feedback after years of not feeling heard by their manager. They won’t continue to ask: Can you hear me now? Managers may face challenges when attempting to ensure their teams enjoy their jobs while achieving goals. Employees respond to different incentives when it comes to being engaged in the workplace. There is not a surefire tactic for engagement. The key is for managers to listen, be intentional, and focus on people. Some areas to consider include job alignment, communication, selfimprovement, flexible work arrangements, and having fun. Yes, engagement includes having fun while working.

Job alignment. Check in with your team to ensure the roles are a good fit throughout their tenure. Keep in mind, shifting career interests may shift over time and corporate restructurings that change job responsibilities could impact engagement.

Communication Communicate openly, while encouraging your staff to do the same. Create an atmosphere where employees are able to ask questions, provide fresh ideas, and contribute to the strategy.

Self-improvement. Identify how and why employees

time employees.

2014: Jones establishes a $10.10 minimum wage, as President Obama called for in his State of the Union speech.

2017: St. Louis votes to raise the minimum wage to $10. State lawmakers reverse the increase.

2018: Jones raises the minimum wage to $11, the “fair wage” that would have taken effect if St. Louis’s law had remained in effect.

2019: Jones announces plan to raise minimum wage to $15.

More money in the pockets of St. Louis workers is also expected to help support the local economy.

want to be developed. Customize development for each employee to ensure they meet specific needs. Forcing an employee to complete certifications and other programs is worthless if they are not aligned to individual development goals.

Flexible work arrangement: Trust employees to get the job done beyond their assigned workspace. Consider a flexible work arrangement as an option for employees who are good candidates if it fits within company policies. Some employees prefer to work in an office environment and thrive within that type of structure. Based on the type of job your employee has, it may be something to consider.

Have fun. Find out what your employees like to do and figure out how to incorporate it into the way your team interacts. The possibilities are endless. Use your imagination.

Pam Weston is a senior communications strategist and the author of “Executive Briefing: P.E.O.P.L.E. Goals.”

Financial Focus

By Andre Nelson

Vacation,

tive investments, and putting away money regularly, you may be able to compensate for the lack of growth opportunities. Now, let’s turn to your other goal – retirement. When you are saving for retirement, your primary objective is pretty simple: to accumulate as

more conserva-