October 17th, 2024 edition

St. LouiS AmericAn

Reparations Commission releases its report

‘A turning point for St. Louis’

By Alvin A. Reid

St. Louis American

The City of St. Louis Reparations Commission has released its “comprehensive plan designed to address the longstanding impacts of systemic racism and economic inequality endured by Black residents.”

The report marks a major milestone in the city’s ongoing commitment to justice, equity, and reconciliation, according to Kayla Reed, Commission chair.

“This report is not just a reflection on our past—it’s a road map for building a more equitable future for all residents of St. Louis,” said Reed.

“The report marks a critical moment for our city. These recommendations offer a path toward healing and justice, addressing generations of systemic racism and economic exclusion.”

Jackie JoynerKersee addresses the crowd at The St. Louis American Foundation’s 37th Annual Salute to Excellence in Education Scholarship and Awards Gala held Saturday, Oct. 5. JoynerKersee was recognized with the Lifetime Achiever in Eduaction Award.

Kayla Reed, St. Louis Reparations Commission chair, speaks during a meeting of the commission in February at City Hall. The commission, which was appointed by St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones in 2023, has released its 100page report. It is designed to “address longstanding impacts of systemic racism.”

Leading and learning by example

37th Annual Education Salute celebrated an icon, honored change agent educators

By Kenya Vaughn The St. Louis American

Jackie Joyner-Kersee has been on the global stage for more than 40 years. She has been honored and celebrated – and bestowed with some of the most distinguished awards that the athletic and humanitarian spheres have to offer.

As she sat at her table in the main banquet hall of America’s Center waiting to be recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award at The St. Louis American Foundation’s 37th Annual Salute to Excellence in Education Scholarship and Awards Gala, the joy she exuded filled the entire room. Her excitement level was more like some-

one receiving their first award ever. She began her remarks with a deep breath. “Thank you from the depths of my soul,” as she released the air from her lungs. Even before she took the podium to give thanks, there was a permanent expression of gratitude

Key races, props on Missouri ballot

By Sylvester Brown, Jr.

to which the voter is normally allocated. Methods include voting at a different location, postal voting, proxy voting and online voting.

Eligible voters may apply to vote

St. Louis American

Beyond Housing has opened its Transformative Services Department, which is designed to address poverty more effectively to bring more St. Louisans into the economic mainstream.

“We’ve torn down the silos so we can get more clients who come to us when in crisis onto a path to stability,” said Chris Krehmeyer, Beyond Housing president and CEO.

All supportive services are under one department. We now have one team that intakes clients, assesses their needs, develops a personalized case plan for each individual, and guides them efficiently through the process to find success.

Beyond Housing has worked for 14 years to transform many under-resourced

Thousands of Black women breast cancer survivors, supporters and current warriors converged on downtown October 5, 2024 for the

Photo by Eric Lee / St. Louis Public Radio

Kamala Harris

Photo by Susan Gorman

Raz-B welcomes baby with new wife

Last month former B2K heartthrob Raz-B announced via Instagram that he was not only newly married, but expecting his first child. Less than a month after making his social media debut as somebody’s husband, the singer and actor revealed that his wife had given birth.

“Our baby boy has arrived,” Raz wrote in a caption of a precious photo of his finger being grabbed by his newborn son. “He is healthy and doing great – and we are in awe of how amazing God is.”

In the caption Raz also reveals the name of his son. Versai

Carter Thorton

According to the post, the baby weighed 8 lbs. and 12 ounces. The post also includes the singer’s Cash App handle.

“Feeling beyond bless ed and grateful,” Raz wrote.

Marriage counselor files harassment suit against Dr. Dre

According to Billboard.com, Dr. Dre is facing a $10 million lawsuit accusing him of a “malicious campaign of harassment” against a psychiatrist who says he served as a marriage counselor and mediator for the music mogul and his ex-wife before and during their divorce. The couple split four years ago.

In a case filed on October 9 in a Los Angeles court, Charles J. Sophy claimed Dre (Andre Young) subjected him to an “ongoing barrage of threats” after he had “worked diligently” to help him resolve his disputes with then-wife Nicole Young.

“Rather than treating the mediation process as an opportunity for healing, [Dre] decided to take his frustrations about the mediation out on Dr. Sophy,” Christopher of the firm Frost LLP wrote on behalf of the doctor.

“Frustrations that manifested themselves in the form of a nearly year-long sustained campaign of late-night texts, threats of intimidation and violence, and homophobic rhetoric.”

Billboard.com says the lawsuit seeks a restraining order against further harassment, as well as monetary damages that

the accuser’s attorneys say should total at least $10 million.

Toni Vaz, first Black stunt woman, NAACP Image Awards creator dies at 101

Toni Vaz, an actor and activist who created the NAACP Image Awards, passed away on Oct. 4 in Woodland Hills, Calif. She was 101.

After appearing in front of the camera for the first time, Vaz was cast in films like “Anna Lucasta” as well as “The Singing Nun,” she transitioned into stunt work, which was a first for a Black woman.

Vaz worked as a double for Cicely Tyson on the TV series “Mission: Impossible.”

her We TV reality show “Tia Mowry: My Next Act” that she and twin sister Tamera Mowry-Housley had drifted apart.

“Being alone has been the most challenging part of my divorce,” Mowry said as she wiped tears from her face. “It’s times like this when I feel and wish my sister and I were still close, and I could – you know – pick up the phone and call her, but that’s just not where we are right now.”

With ambitions to create an awards ceremony for people of color, Vaz founded the NAACP Image Awards. The first ceremony was held on Aug. 13, 1967, at the Beverly Hills Hotel’s International Ballroom.

Tia Mowry clears the air on comments regarding relationship with Tamera

Fans were shocked when Tia Mowry admitted in a confessional moment for

The emotional moment sparked speculations and rumors about the twins having a strained and distant relationship. Mowry clarified that they are all good and that the lack of closeness is simply due to Mowry-Housley’s family obligations.

“[Tamera] is a mother. Her children need her. She is also a wife. Her husband needs her,” Mowry told ETonline. com. “So, she’s just not as accessible as the way it used to be. So, I’m comparing it to what it used to be. But I literally just talked to her yesterday. Everything is good. I’m gonna say what my cousin says. ‘All is well. Period.’’’ Sources: Billboard.com, Variety.com, ETonline.com, Instagram.com

SLPS terminates Keisha Scarlett following hearing

She will pursue legal action

By Hiba Ahmad

St. Louis Public Radio

St. Louis Public Schools has fired former Superintendent Keisha Scarlett. In a 6-0 vote, the city’s Board of Education voted Monday to end her employment with the district.

Antionette Cousins, board chair, and members Matt Davis, Donna Jones, Tracy Hykes, Emily Hubbard and Sadie Weiss voted to terminate Scarlett “for cause.”

Board member Natalie Vowell abstained.

“The Board of Education of the City of St. Louis held an evidentiary hearing on matters related to the employment of Dr. Keisha Scarlett. At the conclusion of the hearing, the Board of Education voted to terminate the employment of Dr. Scarlett for cause, effective immediately,” said a statement released by Carl B. Mitchell, SLPS brand strategy manager.

In a statement released by her lawyer, Scarlett said she plans to pursue legal action against the school board.

The board had terminated Scarlett’s three-year contract in September. That decision came after the board hired an unnamed third-party investigator to look into her hiring practices and personnel decisions in response to public complaints that Scarlett hired friends from Seattle Public Schools, where she previously worked.

The board placed Scarlett

on leave over the summer, in the weeks leading up to the start of the school year. School board members named Millicent Borshade the acting superintendent.

After the board’s September vote, Scarlett said she planned to fight for her job — claiming she “did nothing wrong.”

“My leadership decisions were always made to benefit our students and community,” Scarlett said in a statement then.

“When I arrived, the administration was in crisis with significant operational problems, student service deficiencies, and staff compensation disparities.

“After several external studies and audits, I focused on redistributing resources to support our mission more equitably. I communicated regularly with the Board about these needed changes.”

Scarlett appealed the decision to terminate her contract, but the board on Monday moved forward with its decision to end her employment with the district.

Sherry Culves, Scarlett’s lawyer, said in a statement that Scarlett refused to attend the hearing because the board “actively hindered Dr. Scarlett’s ability to prepare for and participate in the termination hearing, denying her the due process that was contractually promised.”

In the statement, Culves said the board barred her from accessing databases and prohibited her from using district devices to contact SLPS person-

nel, which would have helped Scarlett make her case to the board.

District officials said in a statement the investigation into Scarlett’s tenure is ongoing and includes her entire time as superintendent.

SLPS transportation changes

Leviticus “Levi” McNeal joined the school district as it navigates an ongoing school bus driver shortage.

His appointment comes after Toyin Akinola, the previous transportation director, announced her plans to retire on Oct. 31.

The district is working with over 19 vendors of school bus and van operators to get students to and from school on time.

However, the district announced Monday that it has suspended some bus routes after one of its vendors was not complying with safety standards.

“As we identify any further concerns, vendors will be notified, and appropriate actions will be taken to ensure student safety,” a district administrator said. All 5000 series bus routes will not operate for the foreseeable future. The district notified families of children on these routes over the weekend and has placed a notification on its website, which is updated daily.

District officials said some students will be taken to school by other vendors and offered gas cards to other families who choose to drive their kids to school.

During a school board meet-

The St. Louis Board of Education has fired Keisha Scarlett following an evidentiary hearing on Monday Oct. 14, 2024. The former superintendent, speaking here during a conference in March, will pursue legal action, according to her attorney.

ing last week, Chief Operations Officer Square Watson said that over 9,000 students are using traditional yellow buses and roughly 2,500 students are using alternative vendors.

Watson also said that about 85% of students were getting to and from school on time in both the morning and afternoons.

SLPS is searching for vendors for the 2025-26 school year, but meeting the district’s transportation needs for the rest of the school year will likely be a challenge as public complaints about the vendors continue to circulate online.

The district is in the process of evaluating all of its transportation vendors and plans to release a report on Nov. 1.

Photo by Eric Lee / Courtesy St. Louis Public Radio

Guest Editorial Kamala Harris’ plan for Black men Commentary

By Keith Boykin

On October 14, Kamala Harris unveiled a new agenda for Black men The plan is extensive, but I want to highlight 10 specific steps she would take as president that would empower Black men with the tools we need to build wealth, provide for our families, and lead our communities.

Business Loans. Black Americans are twice as likely to be denied credit by banks, so Harris would provide 1 million fully forgivable loans of up to $20,000 to Black entrepreneurs and others who have historically faced barriers to starting a new business or growing an existing one.

More Jobs Without College Degrees Harris would eliminate unnecessary degree requirements and promote pathways for those without college degrees for 500,000 federal jobs.

More Black Male Teachers. As a former high school English and social studies teacher, I know it’s important for young Black males to see Black men in front of the classroom as role models and mentors. Only 1% of public school teachers are Black men, so Harris would create pathways for more Black men to become teachers, including apprenticeship programs and loan forgiveness. Health Care. My uncle, who had sickle cell disease, died last year, and I know several Black men my age who have been recently diagnosed with prostate cancer. And don’t get me started on the mental health needs of the Black men in my family and community. I see it every day. We’ve been traumatized by an unfair criminal justice system and a world that demonizes us instead of understanding us. Fortunately, Harris would launch a National Health Equity Initiative focused on Black men that addresses sickle cell disease, diabetes, mental health, and prostate cancer.

legalize recreational marijuana but also create opportunities for Black Americans to succeed in this new industry.

Ban the Box. I have a law degree, and yet when I lived in Harlem, I was still stopped on the street, arrested, and locked up in jail. I know Black men have been targeted by a racist criminal justice system. Harris would work with Congress to require businesses to limit the unnecessary use of criminal arrest histories, convictions, and credit scores in employment decisions.

Mentorship Programs. Harris would expand funding for community mentorship programs with a proven track record of helping young Black men succeed. She will also support programs like My Brother’s Keeper.

Support Black Farmers. Harris would continue to support Black farmers and ranchers who have been denied access to capital. As vice president, she already distributed funding to thousands of Black farmers and ranchers in a $2 billion relief package.

Relieve Medical Debt. My stepfather passed away in April 2020 , with a mountain of medical debt. Vice President Harris plans to work with states to relieve medical debt, which is the leading cause of bankruptcy in America, and disproportionately hurts Black Americans.

Crypto Protection. More than 20% of Black Americans, including me, have owned cryptocurrency assets. I lost money in crypto, but the high-risk, high-reward crypto markets provide opportunities outside of the existing stock market for many Black men. A Harris administration would support a regulatory framework for cryptocurrency and other digital assets to protect Black men who invest in these assets.

Support for Prop A is support for families

By Bettie Douglas

Support for Imagine this: you’re already struggling to pay your bills, even though you work full time, and then your child’s school calls.

Little Jessie is running a fever and needs to go home. Of course, little Jessie can’t go back to school until the fever is gone. Of course, you want to stay home to make your child feel better, but the electricity bill is due in a couple of days, and you need every hour of pay you can get.

This scenario isn’t imaginary, it’s real life for me and for other workers right here in St Louis as well as more than 728,000 workers across the state who don’t have a minute of paid leave.

That is why over 850 Missourians have united to change this reality.

On May 1, we gathered in Jefferson City to submit over 210,000 signatures to put our proposal on the ballot. This November ballot will include Proposition A, a question that will allow Missouri workers to earn up to seven paid sick days per year.

full-time worker.

That is why I, along with so many others, have been part of the Fight for Fifteen and a union member for over a decade. Hard work deserves better than poverty wages. We know that increasing the minimum wage will disproportionately impact Black workers for the better. Over 90,000 Black workers will get a raise when this change goes into effect.

The momentum behind this effort is strong. Over 115 organizations across the state have already endorsed the ballot measure as well as 400 businesses.

The St. Louis County NAACP recently honored the Missourians for Healthy Families and Fair Wages campaign as one of the 2024 awardees for the 87th Annual Freedom Fund Dinner. I was proudly in attendance.

Weed Equity. Black men have been disproportionately arrested and incarcerated for marijuana-related charges. Now that cannabis is becoming more socially acceptable and profitable, it’s only fair that we benefit from the changing system that hurt us. Vice President Harris not only wants to

Kamala Harris wants to help Black men build wealth, provide for our families, and lead our communities. Trump wants to use us as political pawns in his angry MAGA campaign. Those are the choices. Choose wisely.

“Black Vote, Black Power,” a collaboration between St. Louis native Keith Boykin and Word In Black, examines the issues, the candidates, and what’s at stake for Black America in the 2024 presidential election.

If this passes, workers like me will earn one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked. We will be able to take sick leave to care for ourselves or family members.

The initiative will also raise the minimum wage to $13.75/hour effective Jan. 1, 2025, and then to $15 effective Jan. 1, 2026. It will continue to increase annually with the cost of living after that point. The current minimum wage is just $12.30/hour, less than $500/week for a

The most important supporter the campaign can have is you. I hope you’ll vote yes, this November so that all workers can not only survive but thrive. We should earn enough to not live paycheck to paycheck, and we should be able to take time off to care for ourselves and our families without having to worry about whether we can afford to pay our utility bills at the end of the month.

Workers like me are proud to work hard. We just need an economy that works for us.

Bettie Douglas is a longtime McDonald’s employee who has worked with the Fight For $15 initiative and Proposition A campaign

The shifting paradigm shift

By Mike Jones

Before you can address the tactical issues of the upcoming election, you must have a strategic idea of what it is about.

Political pundits would have you believe this presidential election is essentially a contest between competing political philosophies that will be decided by a rational American public making logical decisions.

Also, that the election will be decided on whether Kamala Harris has a convincing argument for most rational Americans in about seven states. I’m going to suggest that idea is not just wrong, it’s absurd.

What we’re looking at today, and have been since 2016 really, is the existential angst caused by a paradigm shift of historical proportions.

For the last 50 years, America has undergone a paradigm shift. A paradigm is a way of looking at or understanding something. It’s basically how we understand or make sense of our reality.

A paradigm shift is a significant change in that understanding, it replaces the usual way we think or do something with a new way.

For roughly 350 years America had a binary paradigm, from say 1619 to roughly 1960. Everything could be understood in terms of Black and white. Us and them.

rings a little hollow.

But this too shall pass. In 2020 there are 330 million people in America, twice the 1960 population, but the demographic makeup is a lot different. Of those 330 million, 19% are Hispanic,12% are Black and 6% are Asian, in addition 10% of the population identifies as multiracial. In 2020 roughly 47% of the American population identifies themselves as something other than white.

This explains the fascist desperation of MAGA America. There’s no way you can continue to maintain a racist, patriarchal white male social, political, economic hierarchy and a functioning democracy simultaneously.

This paradigm shift, and the existential angst it creates, is exacerbated by an economy that has rapidly gone from a place based industrial economy to a constantly changing high tech interconnected global economy.

Now there’s an army of white commentators that disagrees, but my column is not their’s. As late as 1960, when there were 179 million people in America, the population was 85% white,11% Black and less than 4% were Hispanic.

In that scenario it’s possible to reconcile the genocide of the Indigenous People, the enslavement and Jim Crow apartheid oppression of Black “Americans” with democracy. In fact, the violent malevolence visited upon Indigenous and Black people since 1789 was sanctioned by, and more often as not, executed by the democratically elected Federal and state governments of the United States of America.

In America, democracy was not only compatible with white supremacy and oppression, it actually facilitated it. White supremacy was the democratic will of the American people. For me the campaign theme of saving America’s democracy

The American dream that white Americans had come to believe was their inherent right has disappeared in a generation. Now think about MAGA America and America’s changing demographic, cultural and economic landscape. This is the strategic context that explains the circumstances surrounding this election.

These MAGA Americans, like their Confederate forbearers, are fighting a lost cause to “protect their way of life” at your expense. I say lost cause because I believe there is an immutable law of the universe, that the old order must yield to the new order. It can go quietly and peacefully, or it go resisting, but it will go.

The paradox of the United States is that everything has changed since 1860 and nothing has changed since 1860. The effort to form a more perfect union has always encountered and had to overcome the opposition and indifference of most white Americans.

No matter what happens on November 5th this issue will not be resolved. If Kamala Harris wins MAGA America will not go quietly into that good night, if Trump wins neither should we. But what about the election? To be continued.

Mike Jones is an award winning frequent guest columnist for the St. Louis American.

Columnist Keith Boykin

Columnist Mike Jones

The Mary Meachum Freedom Crossing celebration will include a re-enactment and the stories of three Black families that risked everything in their bid for freedom.

Mary Meachum Crossing celebration on Oct. 19

St. Louis American

A celebration of the historic Mary Meachum Freedom Crossing on the Mississippi Greenway, Missouri’s first nationally recognized Underground Railroad site, will be held from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday October 19, 2024, The event will include a re-enactment and plays portraying three enslaved families and their escape journeys, including one by horse and wagon. There is a community bike ride with Trailnet at noon, programs on the stage from 1-4 p.m., and main re- enactment event at 3 p.m.

There is free parking and a shuttle from the on-street event parking on East Prairie Avenue. The last shuttle will leave the Mary Meachum site no later than 4:30 p.m.

“1842 -1847-1849-1852 and 1855. These are all dates that enslaved Black folks in St. Louis made their bid for freedom. Some of

them were successful, some weren’t. Some will lead to intersectional court cases, while another will be the trail blazer for a new route on the Underground Railroad,” says Angela da Silva, Mary Meachum event manager.

The Mary Meachum Freedom Crossing site is located on the Mississippi Greenway (Riverfront Trail) on the Mississippi River, just north of Merchant’s Bridge in North St. Louis City (28 East Grand St. Louis, Missouri 63147).

Sponsoring partners include Great Rivers Greenway, Missouri Division of Tourism, Explore St. Louis, Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, Missouri Botanical Garden, City of St. Louis, Missouri History Museum, North Newstead Association, LinkStL, Alpha Kappa Alpha, and Griot Museum of Black History.

For more information, visit www. MaryMeachum.org

The rise of Black women voters

By Glynda C. Carr

As we approach this critical election season, a remarkable story unfolds across America. Young Black women are not just registering to vote at unprecedented rates, they’re poised to make their voices heard at the ballot box like never before.

With a staggering 175% increase in voter registration according to recent data from TargetSmart, this surge is not just a statistic: it’s a powerful statement about the future of our democracy and a continuation of Black women’s longstanding commitment to civic engagement.

For nearly 15 years, the Higher Heights for America PAC has been at the forefront of empowering Black women politically. We’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of Black women’s leadership and civic participation. Now, as we face one of the most consequential elections in recent history, the importance of our mission — and the critical need to get out the vote (GOTV) — has never been clearer.

The road from mayor to the White House is powered by Black women. With 16 million of us eligible to vote, and consistently higher turnout rates than most other groups, we have been the determining factor in many races.

Our voices and our votes have helped shape the political landscape, leading to historic firsts including the first Black woman vice president, the first Black woman on the Supreme Court, and the election of 30 Black women for Congress.

The surge in voter registration among young Black women is a testament to the power of our collective voice and the urgency of this moment. But registration is just the first step. Now, our focus must shift to ensuring every registered voter casts their ballot.

But why do Black women consistently show up at the polls in such high numbers? Recent polling provides insight:

1. 80% of Black women surveyed believe we have the power to make change on issues that matter most to our communities.

2. 82% of Black women said it’s important to them that Black women be elected and nominated to more positions of power in our government.

3. From the rising cost of housing to restrictions on abortion access to threats on honest education for our children, Black women are far from single-issue voters.

4. We honor our history. We vote to honor the blood, sweat, and tears of those who fought for our right to vote.

To every Black woman who has registered to vote, who is planning to vote, who is encouraging others to vote, who is considering running for office, or who is simply engaging in political discourse: your voice matters. Your vote matters. You are the change we’ve been waiting for.

The path to a more representative, more equitable democracy runs through the ballot box. This election season let’s commit to turning this surge into a tidal wave of civic engagement. We may be tired, but we continue to soldier on, often shouldering the responsibility of safeguarding our democracy and keeping our country on the right path.

Glynda C. Carr is co-founder, president and CEO of the Higher Heights for America PAC.

Photo courtesy of MaryMeachum.org

Glynda C. Carr

Continued from A1

The Reparations Report includes action in areas including:

Housing and Neighborhoods: Policies designed to close the racial wealth gap, such as business grants, homeownership programs, and land restitution.

Education: Proposals for increased investment in underfunded schools, specifically targeting St. Louis Public Schools, to raise teacher salaries and provide robust support services to Black students.

Home Restoration: Recommendations for restoring historically Black neighborhoods and ensuring affordable housing is accessible to impacted communities.

Health and WellBeing: Initiatives to address health disparities through increased access to medical care, mental health services, and trauma-informed resources.

“The work reflected in this report is an acknowl-

Salute

Continued from A1

on her face and in her body language. The most inspiring thing about her presence Saturday evening was how she fervently cheered for her fellow honorees and the scholarship recipients.

When it was announced that the evening’s total in scholarship awards given exceeded $2.3 million, her eyes widened – and her already thousand-watts smile seemed to elevate to 10,000.

“Jackie has been an inspiring leader,” Webster University Chancellor Tim Keane said during the school’s scholarship

edgment of the harms done, but more importantly, it’s a commitment to correcting those wrongs and investing in the future of Black communities in St. Louis,” said Dr. Will Ross, associate dean for diversity at Washington University School of Medicine and professor of medicine in the Nephrology Division, who serves as vice chair of the Commission.

“This report represents a turning point for St. Louis. It’s a recognition of the systemic barriers that have held back Black communities for generations. More importantly, it’s a commitment to dismantling those barriers,” said Ross.

“By implementing these recommendations, we are investing in a future where Black families can thrive, where equity is at the core of our policies, and where justice is no longer an aspiration, but a reality.”

Community involvement

According to the commission, the city of St.

presentation of the latest cohort of Suggs Scholars for the school. He added that having her as the Lifetime Achievement Award recipient made the moment even more special. “Her commitment to education and community development is unmatched.”

She showcased her East St. Louis pride when Excellence in Education awardee Dr. Latricia Singleton-Clark mentioned that she graduated in the final class of Lincoln High School, Joyner-Kersee’s alma mater. And when 2024 Stellar Performer in Education honoree Ellicia Lanier talked about “The Wiz” being her favorite movie and pointed out the inspiring symbolism from the film, Joyner-Kersee lit

Louis engaged with local stakeholders, community leaders, and residents.

Public meetings, listening sessions, and consultations were held “to ensure that the voices of those most impacted were central to the final recommenda-

up with laughter.

“‘The Wiz’ might seem like a lighthearted movie, but it contains many valuable lessons for leaders,” Lanier said. “Lessons like believing in yourself and your vision, growing a strong team, taking risks, communicating clearly and leading with love and compassion.”

As the night continued, Joyner-Kersee was the personification of the first line of Pastor Rick Warren’s best-selling book “The Purpose Driven Life,” which reads, “It’s not about you.”

Paying education forward

The same could be said for all of the honorees, as well as the

tions,” a release stated.

The city is encouraging residents to review the report and participate in ongoing discussions about its implementation. A series of public forums and information sessions will be held to address ques-

nearly 40 sponsors who helped make this year’s Education Salute possible – including title sponsors World Wide Technology and the Steward Family Foundation. David and Thelma Steward served as co-chairs for this year’s Education Salute.

“Tonight, we honor some of the community’s most dedicated and accomplished educators – who instill a love of learning in our students,” said master of ceremonies and Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis President and CEO Michael P. McMillan. Along with Joyner-Kersee, Lanier and SingletonClark, this year’s recipients included Asquith S. “Sean” Armstrong, Dr. Mary Hairston, Lt. Colonel Nina McLean and SEMO

tions and discuss next steps. “If we implement [the recommendations], we can begin to close the racial wealth gap and build a St. Louis where every resident has the opportunity to thrive,”

Counselor of the Year

Kimberly Merrill.

“We’re also here to award scholarships to many high achieving students with financial support to reach their higher education goals,” McMillan said. A total of 18 students became Dr. Donald M. Suggs scholarship recipients at Harris-Stowe State University, Maryville University, Southeast Missouri State University, St. Louis Community College, Southern Illinois University –Edwardsville, University of Missouri – St. Louis, Webster University and Washington University St. Louis.

Dr. Mark Lombardi, President of Maryville University, leaned on the wisdom of an iconic Black thought leader and educator as he presented his institution’s Suggs Scholars.

“Dr. W.E.B DuBois said, ‘If America doesn’t destroy ignorance, ignorance will destroy America,’” Lombardi said.

“America is on the frontlines of that fight, right here in Missouri. And we have to continue that fight with the amazing young people you are seeing tonight.”

McMillan not only spoke about the $17 million awarded since the event’s inception, but pointed out that the Education Salute can be used as a counter narrative with respect to the educators within the region.

“Don’t let anybody from outside of this city come here and tell you that we don’t have great educators and that we have a talent problem in St. Louis,” said McMillan.

“We have some amazing educators who are working hard every day for the benefit of our students. They are largely unsung community heroes who meet the challenges of teaching and making a positive difference in the lives of our young people.”

Fighting for the future

Lanier, Founder and Executive Director of Urban Sprouts Child Development Center, is proof that the power and agency offered through education can reap generational rewards. She was forced to leave high school to support the family when her mother became ill, and passed away.

“It’s unbelievable how God will give you back what most people thought was stolen from you,” Lanier said. “When I had to give up education to care for my mom, that was a hard choice to make.”

Her destiny was delayed, but not denied. Lanier ascended from getting her GED to serving

said Reed.

To view the report, please visit: https://www. stlouis-mo.gov/government/departments/mayor/ reparations- commission/ index.cfm

as an adjunct professor for St. Louis Community College. Urban Sprouts, the learning center she founded 15 years ago, is now a leading early childhood education provider. Lanier was particularly moved by the scholarship distribution portion of the program.

“Education is so important, and for folks like me, education was something that we had to fight for,” Lanier said. “Tonight, we gave children the opportunity to take a deep breath and not have to fight as hard.”

Joyner-Kersee and Lanier have common threads within the challenges of their respective origin stories. Lanier was a teen parent. Joyner-Kersee was the product of teen parents. Al Joyner, Sr. and Mary Joyner were 16 and 14 when Joyner-Kersee’s older brother, and fellow Olympic Gold medalist, Al Joyner was born.

“My mother wasn’t able to finish high school, but she told me education was the key,” JoynerKersee said. “She didn’t care what I was doing athletically. She said she wanted me to get an education and a job – and pay her 10 percent of the money that I earned.” Joyner-Kersee did more than have a successful career. She answered a call. Her Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation is on the cusp of 25 years of service.

“We were proud of her when she became an Olympian, and we were proud of her when she took her skills, her talent and her connections and brought it back home to the community,” said Reginald Hudlin, Academy Award nominated filmmaker and fellow East St. Louis native, in a special video tribute to Joyner-Kersee. “She’s an extraordinary role model. She’s a hero. I’m glad to be able to brag that I’m from her hometown.”

“When you honor me, you honor my city, East St. Louis,” Joyner-Kersee said. “I was told that nothing good comes out of the community of East St. Louis, but I am here to tell you that God is always shining down on us. We are transforming lives and pouring into young people and families. Come and see what we are doing, because it is an oasis over there.”

Along with her invitation, Joyner-Kersee issued a call to action. “We have to continue to pour into these young people,” Joyner-Kersee said.

“Celebrate tonight, but know that the work is just beginning.”

Kimberly Hicks Franks, a member of the St. Louis Reparations Commission, speaks during a January meeting of the commission at City Hall.

Photo Brian Munoz / St. Louis Public Radio

absentee by mail or in person up to six weeks before each election. A registered voter must submit an application to vote absentee prior to each election before an absentee ballot can be issued.

Absentee ballots may be requested in person until 5pm the day before Election Day from the Board of Election Commissioner’s office at 300 N. Tucker Blvd. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A mailed application must be received in the board of election commissioner’s office by the second Wednesday prior to the election by 5:00 PM.

“You just need your photo ID. You can vote your absentee ballot and be on the way,” Gary Stoff of the St. Louis Board of Elections said on a recent “First Alert 4” segment.

A voter with a permanent disability may request to be placed on a list of voters in City of St. Louis with permanent disabilities. Once you are on that list, you will automatically receive an absentee ballot application before each election in which you are eligible to participate. You can find and down-

Housing

Continued from A1

communities in the Normandy school district’s footprint “to create a stronger, more equitable, and prosperous St. Louis for all,” according to Krehmeyr.

load the application from the Board of Election Commissioners’ website or call (314-622-4336) for more information. The No Excuse Needed Absentee voting method

“For decades, this area has had the highest concentration of poverty in the Missouri side of the metro region.”

He said “national thought-leaders” including Health Equity Works at Washington University, the Aspen Institute, the Stanford Social Innovation Review, NeighborWorks America, and the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco helped design the new department.

“We know that families and communities have many needs that

differs from application-based absentee voting in the following ways:

• You do not have to provide an excuse.

• You do not have to apply for an absentee bal-

must be met in order to thrive,” said Krehmeyer.

“A family may come to us for housing, but if they don’t have a job that can pay the rent or mortgage, that home won’t last. The new department brings all our supportive services together to serve people in an even greater holistic manner.”

Beyond Housing began designing the department in 2021, utilizing the latest

• No excuse needed absentee voting is only available at a few locations.

• You must bring photo identification with you;

thinking and best practices to help people overcome poverty.

“Community development needs to be so much more than homes, buildings, and parks,” said Jaclyn Belt, Beyond Housing’s chief transformation officer and head of the new department.

“A community is made up of people and can only be as successful as the residents within it. And transforming our

no provisional ballots are available.

• There is no mail-in ballot option for no excuse needed absentee. Absentee voting or voting by mail has been in

under-resourced communities creates a more successful region for all of us.”

The Transformative Services Department centralizes staff into six specializations to serve needs, standardize service delivery, and utilize realtime data and reporting.

Its 16 staff specialize in housing stability, career development, financial empowerment, community health, and

when it was implemented to help soldiers cast ballots during an election. Its usage has increased since the 1980s, with an unprecedented expansion during the COVID-19 pandemic. By most expert accounts, mail voting is a safe, secure, and reliable voting method used by voters of all political parties. The city offers in-person “no excuse” absentee voting options during the two-week span before the November election. Voters can visit the locations listed below from Tuesday through Saturday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and Mondays between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m.

on

or no-excuse absentee voting visit or call the St. Louis Board of Election Commissioners. Sylvester Brown Jr. is the Deaconess Foundation Community Advocacy Fellow.

business resources.

“Beyond Housing now has a greater emphasis on case management, versus crisis management and a lot of verticals,” Belt said.

“This model is designed to influence a change in the knowledge, attitude, skills, and aspirations of our clients and to acknowledge the interconnected needs among individuals, families, and communities.”

Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during a campaign rally at Erie Insurance Arena, in Erie, Pa., Monday, Oct. 14, 2024.

Photo courtesy of the AP

An island paradise for young gamers

Gamer’s Island ‘can save lives’

Young gamers have found a fun, safe haven at Gamer’s Island in Ferguson, Missouri. Black gamers are becoming a force in the industry, and the success of Gamer’s Island is part of a growing trend nationwide.

By Devored A. Horton Jr. St. Louis American

The idea for Gamer’s Island was conceived in February 2023 by a trio of friends who loved video competition. The concept is proving successful, as Gamer’s Island has grown into a go-to spot and epic gaming experience for players into PCs, Xbox, PlayStation, VR, and more.

Owned by Maurice Taylor, Darris Ford Jr., Terrell Smart, Tashauna Parker, and Kalonda Cloyd, Gamer’s Island is located in the historic downtown Ferguson area at 248 S. Florissant Rd.

“It was a simple idea,” Taylor said.

“It was a thing where me, Darris, & Terrell were all playing the game

n “When I did talk to Terrell, one of my co-owners about their vision, he basically told us that their vision was to have a spot that we could bring the youth to save their lives.”

– Tashauna Parker

on the regular and we started Team St. Louis Gaming and Terrell told Tashauna. So, she asked if we thought we could make a business out of it and we talked amongst ourselves and said “why not give it a shot?”

Parker also talked about the vision her co-owners had for the business.

“When I did talk to Terrell, one of my co-owners about their vision, he basically told us that their vision was to have a spot that we could bring the youth to save their lives,” Parker said.

“Terrell literally told me that gaming can save lives.”

Co-owner Darris Ford Jr. believes the business has flourished.

“Business has actually been good, Ford Jr. said. “It has been a great turnaround for the community, especially for the youth programs that we associate with. So, typically just with the walk-ins, scheduled programming, and birthday parties has been 90% of our success.”

Black unemployment rate drops as election nears

By Casey Quinlan Missouri Independent

A month before voters cast their ballots, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released a report showing a strong labor market with growing wages, a lower unemployment rate, and the addition of 254,000 jobs to the economy.

In September 2024, the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for African Americans was 5.7%, down from 6.1% in August.

The unemployment rate for Black men (over 20) decreased from 5.9% to 5.4%.

The unemployment rate for Black women decreased from 5.5% to 5.3%

81% of registered voters say the economy is key to their vote for president this fall, according to a September Pew Research report.

“We saw job creation beating expectations, unemployment rate ticking ever so slightly down, and we saw great wage growth which has continued to outpace inflation,” said Kitty Richards, senior strategic advisor at Groundwork Collaborative, a progressive economic policy think tank.

“We don’t have the new inflation numbers for last month, but wage growth is strong and has been outpacing inflation for about 16 months now and those are all really good things.”

Black Construction Week, which is being observed in St. Louis by the , runs Oct. 14-18. The Black unemployment rate fell in September, and construction employment continued to trend up in September (+25,000), similar to the average monthly gain over the prior 12 months (+19,000), according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Johnson now heads St. Louis FBI Field Office

Ashley T. Johnson has been appointed the special agent in charge of the St. Louis FBI Field Office, becoming the first woman to serve in the position.

Ashley T. Johnson

Johnson most recently served as section chief of the International Operations Division at FBI Headquarters in Washington, D.C. She joined the FBI as a special agent in 2007 and was assigned to the New Orleans Division, where she investigated civil rights and white-collar crime violations.

In 2018, Johnson was appointed assistant special agent in charge of the Atlanta Division’s Criminal Branch.

Lawson named First Tee program director

First Tee – Greater St. Louis has promoted Romeze Lawson to program director. Lawson has more than a decade of service to First Tee and has been instrumental in shaping the success of First Tee’s programs during his tenure as lead coach.

“Golf has given me so much, and I enjoy using it as a tool to teach kids important life lessons, especially perseverance and sportsmanship,” said Lawson, who will oversee the design and implementation of First Tee’s 85 programs and support more than 100 elementary and middle schools throughout the region.

First Tee impacts more than 47,000 youth each year and builds character through the game of golf.

Walker installed as Postmaster of St. Louis

Medora Walker was installed as the 41st St. Louis postmaster on Oct. 18, 2024, at the St. Louis Main Post Office.

Walker

Walker, who becomes the first African American woman to hold the position, now leads a team of 1,800 employees across 39 stations and branches, which serve over 300,000 people annually.

The St. Louis Post Office is responsible for managing approximately 485,000 delivery points through 991 delivery routes, ensuring that postal services meet the needs of the community.

Webster U’s Cooper in USA Today article

Jameca Woody Cooper

Jameca Woody Cooper, PhD, a psychologist and adjunct professor at Webster University, was recently quoted by the Detroit Free Press about postpartum depression, and the story was republished by USA Today She explains that often the feelings associated with postpartum depression begin with hormonal changes associated with estrogen and progesterone levels being the highest they’ll ever be during pregnancy.

See GAMERS, A9

Photo courtesy of FreePiks

Romeze Lawson

Photo courtesy of Gamer’s Island

Medora

Gamers

Continued from A8

Even though the business has flourished, changing demographics has led to a changing mission.

“When we started Gamer’s Island we had a different demographic we were targeting, but it quickly turned into a hub for our youth,” Parker said.

“So, at first it was a safe gaming environment for the community, but it has turned into a safe hub for our youth to game with like-minded individuals in an inclusive environment.”

Parker also said that they have been rethinking the program. They want to base their program on their actual demographic and not force the issue. So, they are making adjustments to accommodate their faithful clientele.

St. Louis is not alone in the growth of Black gamers, and their pursuit of improved gaming skills.

In February, the first Black History Smashfest was held in Minneapolis, Minn. The Black-only gaming session centered on Super Smash Bros.

About 30 Black gamers out of the top 100 ranked Smash Bros. gamers in Minnesota.

Jobs

Continued from A8

those worries.

The Fed began an aggressive campaign to beat inflation by raising rates in March 2022 and stopped in mid-2023 but the rate remains high and has affected the economy, particularly the housing market, economists say Inflation has significantly cooled since its peak in June 2022.

“If today’s job report had said that the labor

Participant Evan Hands said, “As a Black gamer you have all the same emotions, all the same feelings. You play all the same video games as any other gamer.”

“But then every now and then it’s like, ‘I am Black and I do know that I’m Black and other people know that I’m Black.’ “I am Black. I am a

market was softening further, I think a lot of us would be more aggressively concerned about the risks posed to the labor market by high interest rates,” Richards said.

“It’s great to see that those risks have not tipped over yet … But there are risks and we need to be really mindful of what it would mean if we started to see the unemployment rate picking up again.”

The report also showed continued job growth in healthcare, government, social assistance and construction last month.

gamer. They can coincide. I don’t have to keep them separate.”

On August 3, the second Black Girl Gamers Online Summit was hosted on RingCentral. It featured discussions on:

Equity & Access:

Moving beyond Diversity 101 conversations to get to the nitty gritty of the

industry’s current needs. Impact & Innovation – Exploring gaming’s influence on mainstream culture and its intersection with non-endemic brands and media.

Culture & Authenticity – Led by Black and POC industry professionals, these panels will deliver nuanced advice and actionable

Wage growth was strong, rising 4% over the past year. Adult men saw their unemployment rate fall, at 3.7%, last month. The prime-age employment-to-population ratio, which is a measure of how well the economy provides

From left, Tashauna Parker, Terrell Smart and Kalonda Cloyd turned a business game plan into Gamer’s Island, a haven for young gamers which also has become a fixture in the north St. Louis County community. Gamer’s Island is in downtown Ferguson at 248 S. Florissant Road.

guidance to viewers.

Advocacy & Allyship – Educating allies on effective ways to support underrepresented communities.

As for Gamer’s Island, it isn’t just a safe space for gaming.

It also has school break programs, summer camp breaks, after-school homework jam sessions, and

remains at a 23-year high in today’s jobs report.

“I think the labor market continues to be healthy and strong and it’s great to see labor force participation and employment-to-population rates staying high,” Richards said.

“That’s what we want to see in the kind of economy that is going to drive wage gains for working people and continue some of the gains that we’ve seen since the COVID

spring break. During any break, groups of kids can show up to a place where they know they’ll find breakfast, lunch, and snacks just to make sure they have a safe haven because many have parents who work during the holiday seasons. They have workforce programming which helps the kids get jobs. They also have tournament programming which helps those youth who have never been into gaming learn the ropes. That program teaches them how to create a logo, how to stream, and how to create content. To learn more about Gamer’s Island on instagram- @gamersislandstl; facebook- @ gamersislandllc; email@gamersisland@gmail. com. To book your next event, visit www.gamersislandstl.com or call (314)736-1070.

Devored Horton is The St. Louis American’s Comcast/NBCUniversal WIB fellow This story is part of the Digital Equity Local Voices Lab fellowship. The Lab initiative is made possible with support from Comcast NBCUniversal.

recession.”

But she added that there is still room for those measures to grow.

“We’ve seen that the economy can outperform what a lot of people thought before we had this really prolonged period of low unemployment coming out of the COVID recession. And I hope that we continue to see this kind of growth,” she said.

Alvin A. Reid of the St. Louis American contributed to this report

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

7th Street improvement project underway Downtown

Will include sidewalks, trees, bike lanes

Construction has started on a project to connect two major Downtown anchors with 7th Street between Ballpark Village and America’s Center on Washington Avenue.

The project, funded with $3.7 million in public and private funds, continues the work of the partnership between the city and the business community to make Downtown “safe, vibrant, and beautiful,” according to Mayor Tishaura O. Jones.

When complete, 7th Street Downtown will have new sidewalks, trees, lighting, protected bicycle lanes that connect to the Brickline Greenway, and more.

“The most exciting downtown areas worldwide are those packed with people, not cars,” said Jones. “Making 7th Street, from Ballpark Village to the Convention

Center, a more walkable and bikeable space with new sidewalks, lighting, trees, and a bike path is another way we’re using public-private partnerships.”

In May, Greater St. Louis Inc., joined with Jones, Neal Richardson, SLDC president and CEO, SLMPD Chief Robert Tracy, and Circuit Attorney Gabe Gore to launch the public-private partnership to revitalize Downtown and announce a plan to address vacant properties including the Railway Exchange Building and the Millennium Hotel.

Since the announcement, the city filed an eminent domain petition to take control of the Railway Exchange; Gateway Arch Park Foundation signed a contract to bring the Millennium Hotel under

From rubble will come a redeveloped 7th Street Corridor,

America’s Center on Washington Avenue. The

and protected bicycle lanes that connect to the

local control.

In addition, Arch to Park Equity Fund, the patient capital real estate investment fund coordinated by GSL, signed a con-

tract to ensure the historic Wainwright Building stays under local control.

Also, funding was awarded to several small businesses to open new or

will

Greenway.

expand street-level retail establishment through the GSL-SLDC Downtown Retail Incentive Program, and the Downtown Public Safety Ambassadors

Program was launched to increase the visible public safety presence on Downtown streets.

City of Wellston to host ‘Redeveloping Wellston Summit’

The City of Wellston and Wellston Community Empowerment (WCEC), with great enthusiasm and will host the economic and community development “Redeveloping Wellston Summit from 8:30 a.m. to noon Friday November 1 in Wellston City Hall, 6203 Cote Brilliante. The city is in a “development and growth” position, according to Wellston Mayor Nathaniel Griffin on numerous parcels of public and privately owned land. Last year, Wellston partnered with BGC

Advantage LLC and St. Louis County Housing Authority to break ground on the Wellington Family Homes development, a revitalization of the former Wellston public

housing site. The St. Louis County Land Clearance for Redevelopment Authority has also published a request for proposals for the 15-acre Plymouth

Industrial Park and 28-acre Wellston Industrial Park.

“This is intended to be a collaborative effort that provides an opportunity for all to be a part of creating a plan that leads to positive and real changes for Wellston,” said Griffin.

“All are invited. We look forward to seeing everyone.” Attendees may pre-register by sending an email to wellston.wcec@gmail. com and providing their name and contact information.

Photo courtesy of Greater St. Louis Inc.

which will connect Ballpark Village and

project

include new sidewalks, trees, lighting,

Brickline

Nathaniel Griffin

Historical

Performances

Vendors

Music

Gospel Choirs

Children’s

Activities

‘Taking Care of You’

A breast cancer heart to heart

‘Pink in these Streets’ kept it real about the disease’s impact on Black women

By Kenya Vaughn

The St. Louis American

Just a few hours after thousands of Black women breast cancer survivors, supporters and current warriors converged into downtown October 5, 2024 for the 15th annual Sista Strut, a more intimate group filled the rooftop of the Moonrise Hotel to capacity. They were there to get real about breast cancer’s impact on our community thanks to “Pink in these Streets.”

The event was presented by The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis’ Save Our Sisters initiative. SOS Director and veteran media personality Carol Daniel served as mistress of ceremonies.

Speakers included Dr. Lannis Hall, Radiation Oncologist for Siteman Cancer Center, Dr. Jovita Oruwari, breast surgeon and author of “Black Girls in White Coats” and breast cancer warrior Herminia McKinzie. There was also poetry courtesy of

The Shirley Bradley Price LeFlore Foundation’s presentation of Poets for Pink hosted by Lyah LeFlore-Ituen. Poets included D’era of Change, Aja La’Starr, Poet Lightning and Jacie Price, daughter of Shirley LeFlore.

“She was a poet and didn’t want nobody to know it,” LeFlore-Ituen joked. “She wrote vigorously during her chemotherapy, radiation and surgery – and she is a [breast cancer] sur-

See CANCER, A15

Handling caregiving and grief

By Portia Lockett

From the moment we are born, we know that there is a 100% chance we will die.

What we are not clear of is we do not know when and how. When you are the caregiver of someone that you love dearly, such as caring for a parent, sibling, child or significant other, there may be a moment when you experience anticipatory grief.

That person has been diagnosed with some incurable, chronic disease, Alzheimer’s, or natural stages of aging. Some individuals have such a challenge, accepting the fact that these people may transition at some point. They are grieving that these individuals will never live lives as they used to, they can no longer be mobile or have conversations that are meaningful, so it causes the person who is in the caregiving position to grieve in a way that they have never imagined. It can additionally be a scenario where two adult children see the situation from a different point of view. One simply may recognize that the parents are truly declining, and there needs to be plans put in place to deal with the inevitable.

n Some individuals have such a challenge, accepting the fact that these people may transition at some point.

The other sibling is in denial, and they think that their parents are going to live forever, so they wish not to entertain the conversation about future planning the inevitable. This causes friction amongst the family, especially when these two individuals, for whatever reason, cannot seem to be on the same page.

It is also possible to find yourself in a caregiving situation where nothing has been formalized. After living with and caring for a loved one for decades, you might find yourself in a position where you are now responsible for their care as they approach the end

See LOCKETT, A15

Many Black Missourians dealing with medical debt

By Clara Bates Missouri Independent

Two of every five Missouri adults owe money to medical providers, according to a survey published by the nonprofit Missouri Foundation for Health. Those debts include unpaid fees for services ranging from lab tests and doctors’ visits to emergency treatment and dental care. Often, the bills are from one-time or short-term medical expenses, the report states.

One in ten Missouri residents have more than $5,000 in medical debt.

The result is that Missourians with medical debt commonly cut back on spending for basic needs, exhaust their savings and increase other forms of

debt, like credit card debt.

“When people struggle to access affordable health care, the effects ripple through our economy,” said Sheldon Weisgrau, foundation vice president of Health Policy and Advocacy, in a press release.

“It’s not just about health; it’s about financial stability, workforce productivity, and the ability of families to thrive,” he added.

The foundation commissioned a statewide survey of over 2,000 adults last spring, conducted by the research firm SSRS. Data were weighted to be representative of the population.

The survey found Hispanic and Black Missourians are more likely to See DEBT, A15

BJ The DJ, the founder of Sista Strut, getting down with it at the Saturday morning event Oct 5, 2024 at Chestnut and 15th Street.

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

Portia Lockett

vivor.” Before and during the poetry portion of the program, leaders in the field shared the reality of what it means to be a Black woman facing breast cancer.

“Black women are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer – especially Black women under the age of 45. And when we are diagnosed, we are 40 percent more likely to die,” Dr. Oruwari told the crowd. “The numbers are grim, but it is not all bad news,” she added. “And the important thing is that we take charge of our health. Because that is how you will be able to overturn some of these disparities and sad numbers.”

Price was one of those women. She stood before them a survivor in remission who can look back on the journey through her writing.

“I told myself, ‘Thank you God for my faith, my family and my friends. I discovered my strength within,” Price read. “I unleashed the fearless woman I’ve been known to be – and yes, breasts and hair don’t define me.”

The event was like a loving family meeting of matriarchs who have decided to face the facts and meet them with a fight.

“If we are able to find your cancer early – stage 0 or stage 1 – your cure rate is almost 100 percent,” Dr. Oruwari said.

Dr. Hall challenged the audience to look within for the strength to battle the disparaging statistics.

“Let’s remember where our DNA comes from,” Hall said. We were brought out of bondage and able to stand back straight as we sat at the lunch counters during sit-ins with racial epithets being hurled at us. And yet we stand here with a

Debt

Continued from A14 have medical debt compared to white adults. Those in rural areas are also more likely to have current or recent medical debt, as are those with disabilities.

Half of Missouri adults have held medical debt at some point in the last five years, according to the report. Most of them — 78% of those under age 65 — had health insurance at the time they received the care that sent them into debt.

One reason those with coverage are incurring debt, the report notes, is

Lockett

Continued from A14

of life, yet you have no legal authority to make decisions regarding their healthcare. There may be adult children involved who were previously absent from their parents’ lives, avoiding responsibility and harboring unresolved issues. Now, with the possibility of financial gain, they suddenly want to assert control. As a result, you may be excluded from any decision-making processes, leaving you sidelined and your role as caregiver abruptly ended.

‘Taking

Care of You’

disproportionate mortality with a disease that has some of the most amazing advances in the last twenty years of any cancer.”

Hall said that African American women have a 40 percent higher mortality rate across this country. And in St. Louis County, that number is 80 percent. Which is double the national average.

“How could that be? How did we find ourselves here,” Hall said. “Are we consumed by fear? Or do we get our tribe of people together and say, ‘Just like

that many have unaffordable deductibles — meaning out-of-pocket costs they must pay before the insurance company starts to pay. Cost-sharing measures, like copays, can also be high. In 2023, the average family deductible in Missouri was $3,783, according to the nonprofit KFF. The average deductible for single coverage in Missouri was $2,340. Yet many Missourians live paycheck to paycheck. Four in ten Missourians don’t have the money to pay for an unexpected $500 bill, the Missouri Foundation for Health survey found. “The burden of medical

Here are some strategies to help individuals heal, find hope, and move forward in their journey:

Acknowledge Your Feelings: Recognize and accept your emotions, whether they are anger, sadness, guilt, or relief. Suppressing these feelings can hinder healing.

Seek Support: Consider talking to a therapist, counselor, or grief support group. Professionals can offer a safe space to process your emotions and provide coping strategies.

Support Groups: Connecting with others

DNA from my collective grandmothers and mothers, I can get through this.’”

Herminia McKinzie is a woman in the midst of her fight. In a form fitting pink and burgundy tweed dress with a head full of bright pink curls, she appeared to be the pillar of health. She looked as if she was ready to share a testimony of how she got through. Guests found out that the hair was a wig. And that she is actually undergoing treatment for stage four triple negative breast cancer

because she ignored the itchy lump that was growing on her breast. When the lump – which she thought was a cyst –got bigger. She bought pretty bras to distract her from it.

“It got as big as an orange,” McKinzie said. “Then I got another one underneath my arm.” By the time she went to the doctor the lump was too big for surgery. She was diagnosed nearly three years ago and has a port for chemotherapy that she will have for the rest of

Photo courtesy of CFPB

debt is not only financially devastating but also demoralizing for families,” said Samantha Schrage Bunk, MFH health poli-

who are in similar caregiving or grieving situations can offer validation and a sense of community.

Set Boundaries: Establish emotional and physical boundaries to protect your well-being. This may involve limiting contact with toxic family members or stepping back from caregiving duties when possible.

Practice SelfCompassion: Be kind to yourself and avoid selfblame. Remember that you did your best under challenging circumstances.

Engage in Self-Care: Prioritize activities that

Director Rohit Chopra and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) have intensified efforts to combat abusive medical debt collection practices, seeking to protect over 100 million Americans burdened by $220 billion in medical debt.

cy strategist, in the press release.

The results in the survey were similar to the national average found in

rejuvenate you, such as exercise, meditation, journaling, or creative hobbies. Taking care of your physical and mental health is crucial.

Create a New Routine: After caregiving ends, finding a new daily routine can help provide structure and a sense of purpose. Engage in activities that you may have set aside or explore new interests.

her life.

“I hope that if you feel something or you just don’t know, check your body and go to the doctor,” McKinzie said. “I was afraid of what I didn’t know. Now nobody in this room can say they don’t know.”

She told the women in the audience that the ultimate form of self-care is prioritizing health care.

A sentiment Dr. Jovita Oruwari stressed earlier during the event.

“We as women are the backbones of our family.

a 2022 survey conducted by the nonprofit KFF

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) have intensified efforts to combat abusive medical debt collection practices, seeking to protect over 100 million Americans burdened by $220 billion in medical debt.

The states with the worst rates of medical debt haven’t expanded Medicaid, KFF has found Missouri implemented Medicaid expansion in October 2021.

There has been increasing attention to medical debt at the state and federal level in the last few years. At least 17 states this year pro-

Focus on the Positive Impact: Reflect on the positive contributions you made as a caregiver, even if the outcome was not as you hoped. Recognize the love and support you provided.

Plan for the Future: Consider creating a legacy project, such as a memory book or a charitable activity, in honor of the loved one you cared for. This can be a meaningful way to keep their memory alive while helping you to heal.

Address Family Dynamics: If family conflicts arise, consider mediation or facilitated conversations to address unresolved issues. If reconciliation is not possible, focus on what you can control—your own healing and boundaries.

Practice Acceptance

We take care of everyone. In doing so, we forget to take care of ourselves,” She said. “But you need to remember that when you, the pillar of your family, breaks down, the whole family breaks down. In the same way that you get your nails done and get your hair done and you go get a massage – that is all part of taking care of yourself. So is going in for your mammograms, your screenings, your checkups. Make sure you are doing this religiously.”

posed legislation related to consumer relief for medical debt, though not Missouri, according to LexisNexis’ state legislative tracker.

The Missourians surveyed widely support policies that would require greater price transparency, limits for hospital charges and uniform criteria for financial assistance programs.

“Missourians are clear – they want policy changes that make health care affordable and accessible, and they’re looking for government and health care systems to listen to them and take action today,” Schrage Bunk said.

and Forgiveness: Work towards accepting the things you cannot change, including the behaviors and decisions of others. Forgiveness, whether of yourself or others, can be a powerful step in letting go and moving forward. Everyone’s journey is unique, so it is important to find what resonates most with you. Healing is a gradual process, and it is okay to take one day at a time.

Portia Lockett is a grief recovery method specialist, author and speaker. This commentary was originally published in the Michigan Chronicle.

Caleb Hoskins, Jasmine Lucas, Gayle Snodgrass and Diane Hoskins celebrating 15 years of involvment with the organization Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024.

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

The St. Louis American’s award winning NIE program provides newspapers and resources to more than 8,000 teachers and students each week throughout the school year, at no charge.

Questions or comments? Contact Cathy Sewell csewell@stlamerican.com or 618-910-9551

FAMILY SPOTLIGHT SCIENCE STARS

A hurricane forms over tropical and subtropical ocean water. Warm water and cool, moist air combine to create strong winds that can gust up to 200 miles per hour! These winds create waves that bring the storm on shore. Hurricanes are very destructive. They can flip cars, sink boats, uproot trees, and demolish houses.

In addition to powerful winds, hurricanes bring a lot of rain. (Taiwan received 114 inches of rain in three days during a hurricane.) These rains can cause landslides and flash floods.

SCIENCE INVESTIGATION

In this experiment, you’ll create a replica of a hurricane and identify how the forces work together to create a hurricane.

Materials Needed:

• 2 Soda Bottles • 3 Paper Clips

• 3 Peanuts • ¼ C. Sand • Funnel

• Water • Duct Tape

Procedure:

q Fill one bottle with the paperclips, peanuts and sand. These represent the debris and help make the movement of water easier to see.

w Place the funnel in the mouth of the bottle and pour water into the bottle until it is 3/4 full, then remove the funnel.

e Turn the second empty bottle upside down and hold it over the first bottle so that the mouths of the bottle are aligned. The bottles will look like an hourglass.

r Tape the seam, pressing the duct tape firmly to

z A hurricane has moved 456 miles in 6 hours. How many miles per hour is the hurricane traveling? ______ If it continues to travel at that speed, how far will it travel in 10 hours? ______

x Hurricane Frederick is traveling at 86 miles per hour. If the hurricane is 129 miles from the coast, how many hours will it take until the hurricane reaches the coast? ______

c A tropical storm takes on a hurricane status when the winds reach 74 miles per hour. After three days, Tropical Storm

DID YOU KNOW?

African American Meterologist William “Bill” Parker

Hurricanes can last a few hours or several days. Most hurricanes occur during the fall months. How can you stay safe? Have an evacuation plan and an emergency kit prepared. Meteorologists can track these storms and keep you informed. For more hurricane facts, visit: http://www.sciencekids.co.nz/ sciencefacts/weather/hurricane.html.

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

Make Your Own Hurricane!

create a watertight seal. Continue taping 1 to 2 inches above and below the seam.

t Hold the bottles by the middle and lift the jugs.

y Quickly, turn the bottles over so that the water-filled bottle is on top. Set the bottles on the table again.

u Observe the water as it drains into the bottle below. The water competes with the air from the empty bottle. Both substances push to pass through the neck.

i Turn the bottles over again. This time, shake the bottles in a circular motion. Be sure to keep the bottles vertical.

o The water will form a vortex as it drains into the next bottle. The water will flow along the outside of the neck, while air moves quickly up through the center of the vortex. The water will drain much faster.

Analyze: How did water and air create a hurricane?

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

Math Storms!

X has grown to have wind speeds of 48 miles per hour. How much faster will the winds have to become for Tropical Storm X to become Hurricane X? ______

v Upon landfall of a Category 4 hurricane, local officials ordered an evacuation. City A has a population of 9,613, City B has a population of 5,013 and City C has a population of 3,972. How many people were evacuated in all?

b After citizens returned to their houses after the evacuation, reports of damage were totaled. City A reported

$115,264 in damage, City B reported $236,096 and City C reported $436,869 in damages. What was the total cost of damages rounded to the nearest thousand? ______ If the state and federal government promised $500,000 in aid, how much would the local people have to raise by themselves? ______

Learning Standards: I can add, subtract, multiply, and divide to solve a problem.

William (Bill) Parker grew up in New Orleans. He graduated from JFK High School, which focused on math, science, and engineering. Parker was interested in hurricanes at a young age, but he became interested in the weather after a high school statistics class. In this class, he learned how to predict the chance of rain. Parker wanted to attend a historically black college/ university (HBCU), so he chose Jackson State University to study meteorology. He graduated with his bachelor’s degree, in 1994.

In 1993, he began to gain experience in the field when he worked as a student meteorologist. One year later, he was a meteorologist intern at Shreveport. In 1998, Parker became a general forecaster, and ten years later, a lead forecaster. In 2012, he became a warning coordination meteorologist (WCM). There are only 122 people with this title in the United States, and Parker was the only African American. Parker is currently the meteorologist-in-charge (MIC) at the National Weather Service, leading a team of 26 weather professionals. Parker is also very active as a volunteer in his community. He is a member of the Shreveport-Bossier Mayors’ Prayer Breakfast Executive Committee, La Cima Bilingual Leadership Academy, Bossier Chamber of Commerce Education Committee, Volunteers for Youth Justice, and a coach for Bossier Parks and Recreation. Parker is also an associate minister at Elizabeth Baptist Church in Benton, where he has been serving the congregation since 1997.

Parker believes in serving as a role model to the youth and to recruiting African Americans in the STEM field. Personally, he has hired three African-American meteorologists. In addition, he has recruited minorities for summer intern positions. Parker has also mentored an Airline High School student for his senior project. Parker’s advice to students interested in meteorology is to take as many math and science classes as possible. Learn about summer opportunities in your community. If you are interested in meteorology, visit National Weather Service offices and serve as a volunteer or intern, and find leaders in your community to serve as your personal role models.

Learning Standards: a person who has made contributions to the fields of science, technology,

MAP CORNER

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

Activities — Who works where? a picture of a building in the newspaper and tell what kind of jobs people who work in that building could have.

Problem and Solution: Over a period of weeks, clip articles from newspapers that deal with problems and issues facing your local or county government. Discuss the reasons for these problems and how the government hopes to solve them.

Learning Standards: I can use the newspaper to locate information. I can discuss problems and solutions. I can identify types of jobs. I can make text-to-world connections.

SCIENCE CORNER

Students Aariyah Thompson and Savannah Fisher, in Ms. Stovall’s firstgrade class at Gateway MST Elementary School, are learning how to construct a series circuit.

Photo by Ms. Stovall

Teachers, if you are using the St. Louis American’s

You want to build and share your wealth. We have tools to help you do both. Together, we’re unstoppable.

Scan the QR code to learn more.

elegance with purpose

37th Annual Salute showcases admired educators, high-potential scholarship winners

$2.3 million of student scholarship awards

The St. Louis American Foundation’s 37th annual Salute to Excellence in Education Scholarship & Awards Gala provided another memorable evening of elegance and celebration. Guests at the America’s Center Ballroom paid tribute to Stellar Performer in Education Ellicia Lanier, founding executive director of Urban Sprouts Child Development Center and Lifetime Achiever in Education Jackie Joyner-Kersee, founder of the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation. Kimberly Merrill received the Southeast Missouri State University Counselor of the Year award, while four dedicated educators from throughout the region received 2023 Excellence In Education awards. David and Thelma Steward served as Salute to Education co-chairs. (Look for extensive photo coverage in the photo gallery section of stlamerican.com.)

Family

World

and

this year to

The Steward

Foundation,

Wide Technology

The St. Louis American Foundation partnered

present Jackie Joyner-Kersee with the Salute to Excellence in Education Lifetime Achievement Award. Standing left to right: St. Louis American Foundation Board Chair Michael Holmes, David Steward, World Wide Technology, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Thelma Steward, Steward Family Foundation and St. Louis American Foundation Founder Dr. Donald M. Suggs.

Salute to Excellence in Education Lifetime Achiever Jackie Joyner-Kersee

Excellence in Education Awardee, Lieutenant Colonel Nina McLean

Excellence in Education Awardees receive their flowers on stage. Standing left to right: Dr. Mary Hairston, Dr. Latricia Singleton-Clark, Asquith S. “Sean” Armstong

Stellar Performer Awardee Ellicia Lanier receives her award from Foundation Director Raven Whitener

Reverend Terri Swan, Salem United Methodist Church, blesses the meal

SEMO Counselor of the Year

Kimberly Merrill receives award with Valdis Zalite, director of TRIO and Educational Access Programs

Photos by Wiley Price, Lois Ingram Maurice Meredith and Susan Gorman

Michael McMillan, Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis

SIUE students and staff

Salute to Education guests

Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Minga Furr, Johnny Furr

Jackie Joyner-Kersee arrives at the 37th annual Salute to Excellence in Education

Robin Boyce, right, and friends

Stellar Performer awardee Ellicia Lanier with St. Louis City Mayor, Tishaura O. Jones

St. Louis American Foundation Board Chair Michael Holmes gives welcome address

Kenya Vaughn, St. Louis American

Salute to Education guest Salute to Education guest Salute to Education guests

Naretha Hopson and Chuck Stewart

Webster University, Dr. Donald M. Suggs scholarship recipient, Jineen Hamdallah (left) and family

Artist, Jasmyn, presents an original painting of Jackie Joyner-Kersee to her after the program

Dick and Josephine Weil and Dr. Donald Suggs

Kamarra Williams

Michelle Sherrod, Drexel Stith and Susan Stith

Dr. Brian Gant, Jennifer Raphaelle Prange, Jaime Peters, Kate Whiting and Maryville

President Mark Lombardi

Maryville University scholarship winners

Linda Steward and Catherine George

Barbara Reed, Dr. Terrence Freeman and Dr. Doris Graham Salute to Education guests

Stellar Performer Ellicia Lanier and her children

Raven Whitener, Jackie Joyner-Kersee and Dr. Donald M. Suggs

Jackie Joyner-Kersee thanking the American Foundation for her Lifetime Achievement award.

Ellicia Lanier

Robin Shepherd of Bubbling Brown Sugar with the winner of an all-inclusive trip to Costa Rica!

Lieutenant Nina McLean with Raven Whitener

The New Orleans style band

Roy and Brittany Robinson with Pat Smith-Thurman, Danielle Smith and Terri Thurman

Chuck Stewart, Naretha Hopson with Minga and Johnny Furr

Reggie Hill, Jeremiah Dyson, Senya Simmons, and Madison Beckum-Herron

Alvin A. Reid with Dionna Fountain, Noelle Collins

Tim Keane, Elijah Pfingsten, Pratima Khatri, Janeen Handallah, Emery Bass and Vincent Flewellen Dr. Julie Fickas and Nichole Vaughn

SIU-E Chancellor James T. Minor

Harris-Stowe State University President LaTonia Collins-Smith and Amiya Jones

Ellicia Lanier with Raven Whitener

Dr. Mark Lombardi, Jeffery White, Kenneth Cunningham, Zaria Purvey and Skylar Moore

Kamarra Williams and Valdis Zalite

Karen Gordy and Mayor Tishaura O. Jones

Michael and Gail Holmes

Mike Claiborne with Erika and Dr. James T. Minor

The Jazz Edge Band

Dr. Mary Hairston, Dr. Latrecia Singleton-Clark and Asquith S. Armstrong

Family and friends celebrate Jackie Joyner-Kersee

Michelle and Kennard Tucker with Jackie Joyner-Kersee

Dr. Mark Lombardi

Raven Whitener, Kitty Ratcliffe and Michael Holmes

Above: Ellicia Lanier and Jackie Joyner-Kersee

Right: Steve Cousins, James Williams and JohnnyFurr

Wiley Price, James Clark and Tydrell Stevens

Education Salute guests

Jackie Joyner-Kersee and Daniel Kramer of Neiman-Marcus

Ellicia Lanier, Annette Thirdkill, Pastor G.E. Harris and Taylor Simone Harris

Above: Jackie Joyner-Kersee with friends and family

Left: Pete Wyatt, Ron Wilkinson, Johnny Furr and Chuck Stewart

Who, what, wear A Salute fashion recap

By Kenya Vaughn The St. Louis American

n Lifetime honoree THE Jackie JoynerKersee gave us a master class on how texture can level up the drama on a black dress as much as any pop of color.

Did y’all have a massive group chat with 800-plus folks in it who decided collectively to play no games when it comes to this year’s gala on the style tip? Because guests at the St. Louis American Foundation’s 37th Annual Salute to Excellence in Education Scholarship and Awards Gala took “so fresh and so clean” to the next level. I’m letting y’all know from the jump that a few folks from The St. Louis American are on my list of favorite looks. Some of you will surely hit me with slander about playing favorites or preferential treatment. Let me squash it now by saying that I can’t help it if my co-workers dress better than yours. Okay, now let’s get to it. The classic men – I’m kicking things off with the fellas because their efforts to look fly in their black tie attire are often overlooked. First up is that Vincent Flewellen and his white jacket. He was serving up luxury cologne campaign or Jamarcus Bond 007 – and I was here for every bit of it. I enjoyed his look almost as much as watching him love on the ladies from an arm’s length to keep their foundation faceprints off of his glorious tux. It was very intentional, very calculated. Let’s move on to The Muny’s Kwofe Coleman. His impeccably tailored traditional black tux was giving “high value man in search of arm candy.” I know he’s a great person – and I’m not accusing him of being shallow. I’m just sharing my truth on how

It

R&B music matters

Serenade Tour a testament to the staying power of soul

By Kenya Vaughn The St. Louis American

Maxwell guaranteed that there would be “some good singing” when the Serenade Tour made its St. Louis stop Sunday night at Enterprise Center. He and featured artists October London and Jazmine Sullivan undoubtedly delivered on that promise. Not even the sound hiccups faced by London and Sullivan could impede on the display of their talent.

“Having sound problems? Be a real singer,” London said when one of his tracks skipped and then stopped completely. The emerging star carried on with the poise, confidence (some might say warranted arrogance) and talent that superstars are made of without missing a beat. He proceeded to perform his hit “You Look Better” accompanied only by his guitarist RJ.

As the show opener, he emerged after

Photo by Suzy Gorman

St. Louis American Foundation Executive Director Raven Whitener and 2024 Lifetime Achievement honoree Jackie Joyner-Kersee were just a few of the many attendees who showed that black can always be beautiful when it comes to formal wear at the 37th Annual Salute to Excellence in

Gala Saturday night at America’s Center. See extended event photo

Photos by Michael Thomas

soul star Maxwell was on brand when he delivered a satisfying headlining set for The Serenade Tour Sunday night at Enterprise Center. The show also featured October London and Jazmine Sullivan.

CONCERTS

Oct. 23 – Oct. 27, Jazz St. Louis welcomes saxophonist and composer Immanuel Wilkins, Ferring Jazz Bistro (inside of The Harold and Dorothy Steward Jazz Center), 3536 Washington Ave. Visit https:// my.jazzstl.org/ for tickets.

Fri., Oct. 25 & Sat., Oct. 26, 8 p.m., Usher: Past Present Future, Enterprise Center, 1401 Clark. For tickets or more information, visit www.livenation. com.

Sat., Nov. 2, 8 p.m., Anthony Hamilton and Fantasia, Chaifetz Arena. Please Note: This venue has a CLEAR BAG policy and is CASHLESS for concessions. Visit chaifetzarena.com for more details.

Sat., Nov. 9, 8 p.m., Lupe Fiasco Samurai Tour, The Factory STL, 17105 N. Outer 40 Rd. Chesterfield, MO. For more information, visit TheFactorySTL.com.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Fri., Oct. 18, The St. Louis Burbon Society presents the St. Louis Burbon Festival, The Lemp Grand Hall and Lofts, 1817 Cherokee Street. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit stlouisbourbonfestival. com.

Sat., Oct. 19, 1 p.m., Solutions Publishing and Tina Enterprises present the Grand book launch, the book about Black grandmothers by Tina E. Grimes features several co-authors, including Dr. Denise Hooks-Anderson, Lumen Events STL, 2201 Locust Street, St. Louis, MO 63103.

Tus., Oct. 22, 4 p.m.,

STL Sites & Sounds

Washington University School of Medicine and Knight ADRC present The Norman R. Seay Lecture with keynote speaker Robert Turner II, PhD. Eric Newman Center, Washington University School of Medicine, 320 S. Euclid. To register, visit https://knightadrc.wustl.edu/

Wed., Oct. 30, 6 p.m., The Urban League Young Professionals Personal & Professional Development Committee presents Mental Health Matters, a panel discussion featuring Dr. Donte Kara, Dr. Kezia Jackson, Linda Robinson and Taquera Walker, The Drip Community Coffeehouse, 3615 Potomac St Saint Louis, MO 63118. For more information, visit https:// ulypstl.wildapricot.org/

Sat., Nov. 2, 9 p.m. (8 p.m. doors), THIMES 2

PROMOTIONS presents the historical and legendary MISS FANNIES BALL 2024. The Ambassador, 9800 New Halls Ferry Rd. For more information, contact the Ambassador @ 314-869-9090 or THIMES 2 PROMOTIONS @ 314324.0945.

Sat., Nov. 9, 7 p.m. (5:30 p.m. reception) Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis Salute to Women in Leadership 20th Anniversary Celebration featuring Regina Belle and Kenny Lattimore, honorees include Noémi Neidorff and Lynn Whitfield. Marriott St. Louis Grand, 800 Washington Ave. For more information, visit www.ulstl.com.

COMEDY

Fri., Oct. 25 – Sun., Oct. 27, Helium welcomes Tommy Davidson, Helium Comedy Club, 1151 St Louis Galleria Street St Louis MO 63117.

For more information, call 314.727.1260 or visit st-louis. heliumcomedy.com.

Fri., Nov. 14 – Sun., Nov. 16, Flyover Comedy Festival featuring Joyelle Nicole Johnson, Anointed Greens Presents: Unsung Black Sheroes, DC Ervin and more. Various locations including Stifel Theatre. For more information, schedule and full lineup visit www.flyovercomedyfest.com.

Sat., Nov. 16, 7:30 p.m., Eddie Griffin Live, The Factory STL, 17105 N. Outer 40 Rd. Chesterfield, MO. For more information, visit TheFactorySTL.com.

Fri., Nov. 29 – Sat., Nov. 30, Helium welcomes St. Louis’ own Lavell Crawford, Helium Comedy Club, 1151 St Louis Galleria Street, St Louis MO

63117. For more information, call 314.727.1260 or visit st-louis.heliumcomedy.com.

ST. LOUIS MUSIC SPOTLIGHT

Oct. 17 – Oct. 19, Jazz St. Louis Big Band Swings Sammy Nestico under the direction of Victor Goines, Ferring Jazz Bistro, 3536 Washington Ave. Visit https://my.jazzstl.org/ for tickets.

Fri., Nov. 1, 8 p.m., Live Music with Chuck Flowers, Lit Cigar Lounge STL, 17049 N. Outer 40 Rd, #189, Chesterfield, MO. For more information, visit litstl.com

Wed., Nov. 13, 6 p.m. World Chess Hall of Fame Music Series featuring Louis York, which includes Grammy Winner

and East St. Louis native Chuck Harmony, 4652 Maryland Ave. For tickets, visit https://worldchesshof.regfox.com/

Sat., Nov. 15, 7 p.m. (6 p.m. doors), The Coleman Hughes Project featuring Adrianne, Le Belle Coeur, 1117 S. Main Street, St. Charles, MO. For tickets, visit https://tchpfaf.ticketbud.com/nov2024

THEATRE

Oct. 23 – Nov. 17, The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis’ Steve Woolf Studio Series returns with The Roommate, Emerson Studio Theatre, Loretto-Hilton, 130 Edgar Rd. Webster Groves, MO. For more information, visit www.repstl.org.

Sat., Nov. 9, 7 p.m., St. Louis Black Repertory Company will present their 9th Annual Gala featuring The Spelman College Glee Club and honoring the achievements of playwright Pearl Cleage, designer Daryl Harris and Denise Thimes who will receive the Woodie King Jr. Lifetime Achievement Award Maxine Clark and Rudy Nickens, who will receive the Frankie Muse Freeman Service Award, 560 Music Center. For more information, visit www.theblackrep.org or call 314.534.3807.

ART

Sat., Oct. 19, 3 p.m., Artist talk with glyneisha,

Pictured: (top) Patty Heyda, Michael E. Willis, Gwen Moore; (bottom) Linda Samuels, Toni L. Griffin, Vivian Gibson

Proverbs 18:21 states “Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.”

In “An Unlikely Hero,” a young girl named Jordan goes to villain school, but she is presented with the opportunity to go to hero school.

“She writes her own story – and the whole point is that you control your narrative,” Thompson said. “You have the power to change how people perceive you, and to not let society label you or put you in a certain box. That’s the overarching theme. You have the ability to change the trajectory of what you think your life and your path is supposed to be.”

Metro’s presentation this weekend at the Missouri History Museum is a part of a rolling world premiere of the Emilio Rodriguez play – which is also commissioned by Trike Theater, and the Arkansas Museum of Fine Art. The Metro Theater Company presentation is directed by Carl Overly Jr. and stars Ryan LawsonMaeske, Jailyn Genyse, Christian Kitchens and Chase Harless.

The production is part of With Great Power: The TYA BIPOC Superhero Project, a national partnership involving 23 playwrights and 27 theaters for young audiences dedicated to creating plays about BIPOC heroes for young people.

The show runs Friday, Oct. 18 – Sunday, Oct. 20. The Saturday performances will be centered around a full-day of superhero fun and family-friendly activities that begin at 10 a.m. and continue through 3 p.m. thanks to a partnership with Soundwave Comic Xpo.

Like with all of Metro productions, “An Unlikely Hero” is catered to young audiences – this production is for six-year-olds and up. As usual, there are nuggets of wisdom for parents and other adults who attend the play. “I want them to think about the unlikely heroes in their lives,” Thompson said. “And then really question what makes someone a hero.”

Thompson is an actress who became a director. Now she is a director who has become an artistic director. “An Unlikely Hero” is the first produc-

Metro Theater Company’s world-premiere of ‘An Unlikely Hero’ by Emilio Rodriguez will play from October 18 – October 20 at The Missouri History Museum. The play, which caters to young audiences, is directed by Carl Overly Jr.

tion with her at the helm of Metro Theater Company’s artistic umbrella. She stepped into the position in July, becoming the first Black woman artistic director in the institution’s 51-year history.

“I learned to trust the process and trust the artists,” Thompson said of watching Overly and the creative team for “An Unlikely Hero” work their magic.

“I think about emerging directors or other directors who could use Metro as a space to hone their craft,” Thompson said. “For me, right now it’s about creating or curating my own process of how I support them as well.”

She is actively learning the best way to do that.

“I want to make sure that they have the freedom of full expression and artistic independence,” Thompson said. “As opposed to someone trying to manipulate them in a different way.”

She’s also thinking about programming as she

nears the first season of curating productions.

“I love outlier stories,” Thompson said. “I love stories about the voices of communities that you know we don’t hear of but we find the common ground that connects humanity. I’m into that.”

“An Unlikely Hero” is definitely on brand for the type of stories Thompson is looking forward to helping tell through Metro Theater Company.

“It shows our audience that they have the ability to create, navigate and control their choices,” Thompson said. “And to not let anyone steal their light away from them, or lessen who they know they can become.”

Metro Theater Company’s world-premiere presentation of “An Unlikely Hero” will take place from Friday, October 18 – Sunday, October 20th at The Missouri History Museum. For showtimes, tickets and additional information, visit www.metroplays.org.

n “Move or rust”

– New Buffalo Bills wide

receiver Amari Cooper on Instagram after his trade from the Cleveland Browns

We are in the home stretch of the regular season with just two more weeks left of football before the playoffs begin on both sides of the river.

As we get closer to the playoffs, there are still a few big regular season contests on the docket this week.

The big one on the Illinois side is the annual Southwestern Conference showdown between East St. Louis and Edwardsville. The two metro east rivals will meet on Friday night at Jordan Stadium in East St. Louis. East St. Louis has been dominant this season in rolling to a 7-0 record while the always consistent Tigers are coming into the game with a 6-1 record. Kickoff is at 7 p.m.

On the Missouri side, a pair of state championship contenders will meet on Ballas Road on Friday night when Cardinal Ritter pays a visit to DeSmet. Ritter is currently the top Class 5 team in the state while DeSmet is among the best in Class 6. Cardinal Ritter is currently 7-0 while DeSmet is 6-1 with its only loss coming to Metro Catholic Conference rival CBC.

Kickoff is at 7 p.m.

Another great matchup that is somewhat under the radar is Orchard Farm at Warrenton in a battle of 7-0 teams on Friday night at 7 p.m. Both teams have put together excellent seasons as they surge towards the playoffs.

Standout performers from Week 7

• Receiver Landon Pace of SLUH had seven receptions for 97 yards and a touchdown, plus a quarterback sack on defense in the Jr. Bills 31-21 victory over Vianney.

OCTOBER 17 – 23, 2024

InSIdE SportS

With Earl Austin Jr.

Metro East rivals ready to rock as playoffs loom

Justin Holland (23) during game action on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024. U. City sailed past Normandy 38-8.

• Defensive lineman Quincy Byas of DeSmet had four quarterback sacks in the Spartans 42-13 victory over Festus.

• Running back Jayden McCaster of DeSmet rushed for 158 yards on 25 carries and two touchdowns in the Spartans’ 42-13 victory over Festus.

• Quarterback Anthony Odom of Ritenour threw three touchdown passes in the Huskies’ 43-0 victory

over Webster Groves.

• Running back Collin Griffin of Kirkwood rushed for 150 yards on 18 carries and two touchdowns in the Pioneers’ 52-21 victory over Marquette.

• Linebacker Demarco Clark of Cahokia had two quarterback sacks in the Comanches’ 28-17 victory over Centralia.

• Running back

Kendall Young of Summit rushed for 193 yards on 32 carries and two touchdowns in the Falcons 38-35 victory over Ladue.

What’s on tap for Week 8

Friday, October 18 Hillsboro at Chaminade, 6 p.m.

St. Mary’s at SLUH, 6 p.m. Hazelwood Central at Hazelwood East, 6 p.m.

SportS EyE

With Alvin A. Reid

Troy at Francis Howell North, 7 p.m. Marquette at Summit, 7 p.m. Fort Zumwalt West at Timberland, 7 p.m. Collinsville at Cahokia, 7 p.m.

Lafayette at Lindbergh, 7 p.m. Lift for Life at Cape Girardeau Central, 7 p.m.

MICDS at St. Dominic, 7 p.m. Belleville West at Belleville East, 7 p.m. Lutheran North at

Lutheran-St. Charles, 7 p.m. Alton at O’Fallon, 7 p.m.

CBC at Peoria Notre Dame, 7 p.m.

Saturday, October 19

Riverview Gardens at Jennings, 11 a.m.

Duchesne at Westminster, noon Roosevelt at John Burroughs, 1 p.m.

Earl’s World

Former CBC bas-

ketball standout Caleb Love is one of the five players on the cover of the current Blue Ribbon Basketball Yearbook as a preseason First Team AllAmerican. Love was also selected to the Preseason All-Big XII Conference First Team. Love was the Pac 12 Player of the Year last season in the last year of the league’s existence…Saint Louis University will open its season against Rockhurst in a preseason game on Friday night at Chaifetz Arena. Tip-off is at 7 p.m. Billiken players Robbie Avila, Gibson Jimerson and Isaiah Swope received preseason AllAtlantic 10 Conference recognition. Avila and Jimerson were named to the Preseason First Team while Swope was a Third-Team selection… On the SLU women’s basketball side, forward Peyton Kennedy was named to the Preseason All-Atlantic 10 second Team. Point guard Kennedy Calhoun was named to the Preseason All-Defensive Team… In college football, the Missouri Tigers will try to regain their footing in the SEC race when they host Auburn on Saturday morning at 11 a.m. in Columbia. The Tigers are currently 5-1 and 1-1 in SEC play. Looming on the horizon for Mizzou is a visit to Tuscaloosa and a date with Alabama on October 26.

Kyren Williams’ run to NFL not always perfect

Kyren Williams shares his story of triumph and doubt during his football career in a riveting episode of “A Football Life: Origins,” which debuted on Tuesday on the NFL Network.

Williams overcame scouts’ questions about his size and a hidden injury at Vianny High School to earn a scholarship at Notre Dame. There is a bad guy in this story; former Notre Dame head coach Brian Kelly who almost single-handedly derailed Williams’ dream of playing in the NFL.

“I was always a Rams fan. I remember going to games, sitting in the Edward Jones Dome,” Williams says in the program’s opening.

Born in 2000, Williams said “I always wanted to be a football player. I

always wanted to play in the NFL.” Steven Jackson was his favorite player, and he portrayed him as a youth one year for Halloween – complete with a Dora the Explorer wig that resembled Jackson’s dreadlocks. We learn of Williams’ lineage in football, which includes his father, Larry, who was a linebacker at Northern Illinois and his uncle James Gregory, a linebacker who won a national title at Alabama.

His mother Taryn Williams had an uncle who played at Kansas State, and her father played eight-man football in the town of Winston Kansas.

It was his mother who first taught him how to tackle, using his siter as a tackling dummy. The tute-

lage ended with his sister having two teeth knocked out. His mom says on the show with a smile, “those teeth were loose, anyway.”

As a youth player, Williams wore yellow shoes, and they became his trademark.

He took the style to Vianney with him where he led the Golden Griffins to state titles his sophomore and senior seasons.

Yet, he was only rated a three-star prospect headed into his junior season, which Williams admits disturbed him.

Knowing that his performance in his junior year would determine where he

would play in college, Williams played with a torn meniscus that season. No one knew but coaches and family members.

He left Vianney after the first semester of his senior year to enroll early at Notre Dame. It was a mistake.

“I wasn’t ready to be away from home. I was miserable,” he said. Then came his freshman season and the first play of his career. He dropped a swing pass out of the backfield and was met by Kelly as he returned to the sideline.

“He was cussing me out on national TV. It was one

play. I was distraught.”

Kelly and the coaching staff decided to redshirt Williams after just one game – and one play.

It destroyed his confidence. He admits to losing interest in academics and his physical training sagged.

An unusual event helped straighten him out.

“[The pandemic] was the best thing that could have happened to me,” he said.

One day he was sitting in the basement, happy to be home “and my mom came downstairs and let me have it. She said, ‘get up and do something.’”

“I just worked and worked. I got happier, fell back in love with the sport. That’s when I got it turned around,” he said.

Kelly departed for LSU following an 11-1 record season in 2021. Marcus Freeman took over for the Fiesta Bowl, but Williams did not play. He did not want to risk injury. He was not prepared for the blowback.

“At that time, I had to be selfish. It was a no brainer for me. Other people didn’t feel that way. It really hurt [me].” Williams was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. A poor 40-yard-dash time at the NFL Combine caused him to fall in the draft. Some doubt returned. But he persevered and is now one of the most feared running backs in the NFL.

When Rams head coach Sean McVay called to inform Williams that he was a Ram, the St. Louisan responded “Coach, you got the one.” Williams is indeed “the one.” The Reid Roundup will return next week. A Black Quarterback recap will be posted at stlamerican.com

Earl Austin Jr.

Alvin A. Reid

Normandy Vikings’ defensive back DMaun Woods (13) tries to bring down University City running back

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

L.A. Rams running back Kyren Williams

Photo courtesy of L.A. Rams

A faith-filled crusade against prostate cancer

By Dorothy Boulware Word In Black

A member of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church in Houston, Dewayne Charleston is comfortable talking openly about his belief in God. That faith was put to the test in 2009, when a doctor’s visit ended with a grim diagnosis: stage 4 prostate cancer.

Prognosis: incurable.

I never thought I would be the type of person who would get cancer,” he told KPRC-TV, a local TV station, in a recent interview. “I knew then that I was in for a journey.”

Charlston’s first step on that journey was prayer, together with his physician in his office. He continued to lean on faith, through surgeries, treatments and therapies. At one point he told God he would dedicate himself to educating Black men like himself and fighting the disease “if You give me more years.”

second Sunday in September. Charleston “has lived and thrived with metastatic prostate cancer for more than 15 years and created his foundation to bring national awareness to the need for African American men to have annual PSA tests,” according to the church’s website. “If you have not had a PSA done this year be sure to get tested at Wheeler.”

Disparities Persist

Now, 15 years after he was first diagnosed, Charleston has kept his promise with the Dewayne Charleston Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to teaching other Black men about prostate cancer and supporting those who have been diagnosed. He connected it to his bedrock faith with a cancer screening at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church on Sept. 21.

To honor Charleston, the church has announced it will include prostate health in its health ministry. Congregants are being encouraged to mark the occasion by wearing blue on the

It’s an important message for Black men: according to the National Institutes of Health, 1 in 6 Black men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer, compared with one in eight white men. Making matters worse, Black men are less likely to be covered by insurance or enroll in clinical trials than white men.

Perhaps most importantly, Black men die from prostate cancer at twice the rate of white men, according to the NIH. Charleston is attempting to counter that narrative with his namesake foundation. Aimed at Black men, the Charleston Foundation’s mission, according to its website, is “to help you re-imagine your life and to win the battle against prostate cancer. To share with you personal experiences, clinical trials. beneficial diets and exercise routines, effective treatments, implants, and the advocacy organizations that will help you to live a full and happy life.”

But he also wants to change the bigger picture, in which Black men are more likely to

get diagnosed with the disease, and have worse outcomes, than whites.

“Decreasing the racial disparity gap will not only benefit men of color, but will make the cost of medicine and treatments more efficient,” according to the foundation’s website. “In other words, use the treatments best targeted by genes and risk levels and not by color.”

In addition to his foundation, Charleston is also affiliated with the nonprofit Prostate Health Education Network’s (PHEN) Survivor Network, which provides resources and support for individuals who have been diagnosed.

Spreading the Gospel of Good Health

But it also partners with churches like Wheeler Avenue Baptist as well as other organizations to spread the gospel about prostate cancer testing and early detection. Their website offers a range of resources for churches to share with their membership and the surrounding community.

“We have collaborated with PHEN over a number of years to raise prostate cancer awareness, and we are excited to partner with PHEN to provide educational resources to our churches to support our members

Having lived with stage 4 prostate cancer for 15 years, Dewayne Charleston is teaming up with Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church to spread the gospel of prostate-cancer screening to Black men.

and communities in the fight against prostate cancer,” Rev. Dr. Natalie Mitchem, executive director of the AMEC Health Commision said in a statement. “Our goal is to save lives by increasing vital knowledge about this deadly disease.”

Despite the diagnosis and lack of a cure, Charleston has persevered in part by changing his lifestyle — including a healthy diet and plenty of exercise — and by participating in clinical trials, structured programs in which the medical industry tests new, cutting-edge medications on volunteers.

“Don’t be like me,” he said in the TV interview. “Don’t go 10 years — with insurance — and don’t get tested. Don’t eat fried chicken at gas stations. Take care of your health. Take care of your marriage. Take care of your family. All that begins with good health.”

Photo courtesy of Dewayne Charleston Foundation

GUARDIAN AD LITEM – FAMILY COURT - JUVENILE DIVISION

Family Court (Juvenile Division) of St. Louis County is seeking an attorney to serve as guardian ad litem (GAL) in the Family Court to handle juvenile matters/parent attorney. A GAL who serves the Court must commit to serve on various Family Court (Juvenile) cases on an as needed basis for a monthly retainer to be paid by public funds. The current retainer is in the amount of $2,300.00 per month. Payments for time expended in adoption, guardianship of minor, and termination of parental rights matters may be made over and above the retainer fee.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Graduation

from an accredited law school, possession of a current license to practice law in the State of Missouri, up to three (3) years of trial experience preferred; preferably in juvenile or family law (additional years of trial experience and guardian ad litem experience are highly preferred), and completion of necessary guardian ad litem training as required by the Supreme Court of Missouri. Note: This position is subject to continued availability of funding.

To apply, please send a current resume, along with a cover letter, to SLCCourtJobs@courts. mo.gov or to the following address (application materials must be postmarked by November 8, 2024): Family Court of St. Louis County, Attn: Human Resources Department, 105 S. Central Ave., Clayton, MO 63105. EOE. Please contact the Human Resources Department at 615-4471 (voice) or RelayMo 711 or 800-735-2966 if you need any accommodations in the application process, or if you would like this posting in an alternative form.

SLDC IS EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

The St. Louis Development Corporation (SLDC) is eagerly seeking candidates to join our team as we endeavor to bring economic justice to St. Louis City residents and communities that were disproportionately impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.

There are multiple 2-4-year limited term positions available, term of employment will vary for each position.

These positions will assist in the administration and implementation of various Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund (SLFRF) Programs targeted for households, small businesses and communities adversely impacted by the pandemic.

All positions will be funded in whole or in part through an allocation of Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) from the US Department of the Treasury and the City of St. Louis’ Community Development Administration.

To apply online and see a full job description go to https://www.developstlouis.org/careers and then click “Open Positions & Apply Online.”

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

Sealed bids for the South County ARPA

Multiple Sewer Improvements, St. Louis County Project No. AR/CR-1891, will be received electronically thru the County’s Vendor Self Service portal at https://stlouiscountymovendors.munisselfservice.com/ Vendors/default.aspx, until 2:00 PM on November 6, 2024

Plans and specifications will be available on October 6, 2024 from the St. Louis County Web Site (www.stlouiscountymo.gov) or by contacting Cross Rhodes Print & Technologies, 2731 South Jefferson Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63118 (314) 678-0087.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

The STLVentureWorks and the Land Clearance for Redevelopment Authority of the County of St. Louis request proposals from qualified service providers to perform certain maintenance, repair, and property management services for five (5) different properties located in St. Louis County. The requested services shall be for a one-year period with two successive options for renewal for terms of one year each. A copy of the RFP is available at https://stlpartnership. com/rfp-rfq/. Proposals must be received no later than 3:00 PM CT on Friday, November 8, 2024.

St. Louis Economic Development Partnership Equal Opportunity Employer

SOLICITING BID

Reinhardt Construction LLC is Soliciting Bids from MBE/WBE/DBE/ Veteran/SDVE for the following: CP231543 General Site – Landscape Services Greenhouse Renovation and New Salt Shed Contact: Mike Murray ; mikem@ reinhardtconstructionllc. com Phone: 573-682-5505

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

Proposal for Parking Facilities 10 Year Capital Maintenance Study Proposals will be received by City of St Louis Treasurer UNTIL 3:00PM 11/4/2024 For specific project information, go to https://www.stltreasurer.org/ Request for Proposals/

REQUEST FOR BIDS

City of Pine Lawn seeks Sealed Bids for licensed Architect to produce visual drawings/renderings for ADA renovation of City Hall Public spaces. ALSO, sealed bids are requested from licensed/bonded/insured Roofers. Bids for Architect and Roofers are due and will be publicly opened 3 pm-Mon. October 28, 2024 @ City Hall-6250 Steve Marre Ave.-Pine Lawn, Mo. 63121. Call 314-477-4051/ Visit for specifications & measurements.

SEALED BIDS

Bids for Renovate Women’s Locker Room, Academy Physical Training Building at Missouri State Highway Patrol General Headquarters, Project No. R2402-01, will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, November 19, 2024 via MissouriBUYS. Bidders must be registered to bid. Project information available at: http://oa.mo.gov/ facilities

SEALED BIDS

Bids to Replace Roof, Warrensburg Veteran’s Home, Project No. U250101 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, November 19, 2024. For specific project information and ordering plans, go to: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities

SEALED BIDS

Bids for Improvements to Exterior and Replace VCT Flooring, Shady Grove State School, Project No. E2405-01, will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, November 19, 2024. For specific project information and ordering plans, go to: http:// oa.mo.gov/ facilities

SEALED BIDS

Bids for Design & Install Domestic Water Plant, Project No. U2409-01 St. James Veterans Home will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, December 10, 2024. For specific project information and ordering plans, go to: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities

SEALED BIDS

Bids for Replace Fire Alarm PanelsInfrastructure, Crossroads Correctional Center, Project No. C240401 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, 12/3/24 For specific project information and ordering plans, go to: http:// oa.mo.gov/ facilities

NOTICE OF FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT AND OF INTENT TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS

Date of Publication: Thursday, October 17, 2024

City of St. Louis Community Development Administration (CDA) 1520 Market Street St. Louis, Missouri 63103 (314) 657-3700/ (314) 589-6000 (TDD)

This notice shall satisfy two separate but related procedural requirements for activities to be undertaken by the City of St. Louis (“The City.”)

REQUEST FOR RELEASE OF FUNDS

On or about November 4, 2024, the City will submit a request to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the release of the City’s Federal HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) funds under Title II of the Cranston – Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act of 1990, as amended, to undertake the following project:

Project Title: Generations JeffVanderLou (JVL) 2- St. Ferdinand Bundle

Purpose: Construction of six (6) single-family homes on LRA-owned lots. Five (5) residences will contain 1,260 square feet, three (3) bed rooms and two (2) bathrooms, and one (1) residence will be 1,456 square feet and contain four (4) bedrooms and three (3) bath rooms. All will be built to Energy Star standards and sold to buyers at or below 80% AMI.

Location: 3725 St. Ferdinand Avenue, 3729 St. Ferdinand, 3741 St. Ferdinand, 3743 St. Ferdinand, 3745 St. Ferdinand, 3749 St. Ferdinand, St. Louis, Missouri 63113

Estimated Cost: Estimated total development cost of this project is $1,814,059, with an estimated $1,635,226 of funding coming from the City’s Federal HOME Program Funds, Grant # M-19-MC-29-0500.

FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT

The City has determined that the project will have no significant impact on the human environment. Certain conditions will apply to the project. Therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is not required. Additional project information is contained in the Environmental Review Record (ERR) on file at the City CDA, at the above address, where it is available for review and may be examined or copied weekdays, 8 A.M. to 4 P.M.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR to Trey McCarter, Community Development Planner III at the address listed above. All comments received before November 4, 2024, will be considered by the City prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds. Comments should specify which Notice they are addressing.

RELEASE OF FUNDS

The City certifies to HUD that Nahuel Fefer, in his official capacity as Executive Director of CDA, consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. HUD’s approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities and allows the City to use the above-referenced HUD program funds.

OBJECTIONS TO RELEASE OF FUNDS

HUD will accept objections to its release of funds and the City’s certification for a period of fifteen days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases: (a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer of the City; (b) the City has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR part 58; (c) the grant recipient or other participants in the development process have committed funds, incurred costs or undertaken activities not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by HUD; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58, Sec.58.76) and shall be addressed to the HUD St. Louis Field Office, CPDRROFSTL@hud.gov. Potential objectors should contact HUD to verify the actual last day of the objection period.

Nahuel Fefer, Certifying Officer

St. LouiS american Bids & Public Notices St.

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

utilizing state and historic tax credits. The elevator, fire protection, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical scopes have been awarded as part of a separate bid effort. We are currently soliciting bids for the following scopes: DEMOLITION, ABATEMENT, CONCRETE, MASONRY RESTORATION, STRUCTURAL STEEL, CARPENTRY, CASEWORK, COUNTERTOPS, WATERPROOFING, MEMBRANE ROOFING, SHEET METAL FLASHING AND TRIM, PEDESTAL PAVERS, FIRESTOPPING, JOINT SEALANTS, DOORS, FRAMES, AND HARDWARE, OVERHEAD DOORS, ENTRANCES AND STOREFRONTS, ALUMINUM WINDOWS, DRYWALL, INTERIOR FINISHES, SIGNAGE, TOILET ACCESSORIES, FIRE PROTECTION SPECIALTIES, POSTAL SPECIALTIES, WARDROBE AND CLOSET SPECIALTIES, APPLIANCES, WINDOW TREATMENTS, EARTHWORK, ASPHALT PAVING, FENCES AND GATES, LANDSCAPING, AND SITE UTILITIES. Access to documents is available from our Smartbid link. If you do not receive a bid invitation, please send your company information to tlalexander@paric.com.

A PREBID meeting will be held on Wednesday, 10/23 at 9:00am at the project site.

Questions / RFI’s are due to Paric by November 7th, 2024.

BIDS WILL BE DUE ON November 20th, 2024 @ 2:00pm. Send all questions to Grant Whitson (gwhitson@paric.com). This

prevailing wage requirements.

of St Louis Resident

All bids should be delivered to PARIC via e-mail (bids@paric.com) or fax (636-561-9501). PARIC CORPORATION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

INVITATION FOR SEALED BID

UAW Labor Employment and Training Corporation (UAW-LETC) is accepting Sealed Bids for Shop Equipment and installation of equipment, Tools, and (4) vehicles to set up a training lab for its Automotive Technology Training Program. Please contact Kelly Spangler at kspangler@letc.com or 314-716-3331 to request a bid packet with sealed bid instructions. Bid documents may also be obtained at 500 NW Plaza Drive, Suite 409, St. Ann, MO 63074, between the hours of 9:00am and 3:00pm from October 11 to November 1, 2024. All bids must be received by UAW-LETC by November 8, 2024, at 2:45pm. UAWLETC encourages M/WBE’s to apply. Bids received late or incomplete will not be considered.

PUBLISHER’S

Advertised

limitation, or discrimination. “We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.” Call Angelita Houston at 314-289-5430 or email ahouston@stlamerican.com

BONES AND MEAT RFP 2024

The Saint Louis Zoo seeks bids from qualified firms to submit proposals. Bid documents are available as of 10/16/24 on the Saint Louis Zoo website: stlzoo.org/vendor.

JUNGLE OF THE APES WORKSPACE REMODEL RFP 2024

The Saint Louis Zoo seeks bids from qualified firms to submit proposals. Bid doc- uments are available as of 10/16/24 on the Saint Louis Zoo website: stlzoo.org/vendor.

CITY OF ST. LOUIS BOARD OF PUBLIC SERVICE

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS for PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR OPEN-ENDED ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING AND CONSULTING SERVICES AT ST. LOUIS LAMBERT INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT. Statements of Qualifications due by 5:00 PM CT, NOVEMBER 6, 2024 through the Bid Express online portal at https://www. bidexpress.com/businesses/20618/home?agency=true RFQ may be obtained from BPS website https://www. stlouis-mo.gov/government/ departments/public-service/, under BPS RFQ and RFP Announcement, or email Board of Public Service at bryanth@stlouis-mo.gov. 25% MBE and 5% WBE goals.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

The Land Clearance for Redevelopment Authority of the County of St. Louis (“LCRA”) requests proposals to purchase and redevelop an approximately 28.33-acre property, commonly known as the Wellston Industrial Park and located at 1335 Ogden Avenue, Wellston, St. Louis County, Missouri 63133. Further information, including the complete RFP and a site informational packet, is available at https://stlpartnership. com/rfp-rfq/ or upon request at LCRA’s offices. Proposals must be received no later than 3 PM CT on Friday, December 13, 2024.

SEALED BIDS

SEALED BIDS

CITY OF ST. LOUIS ST. LOUIS LAMBERT INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Solicitation For Bids (SFB)

Service: Interior Live Plant Maintenance Services

Pre-Bid Meeting Date: October 24, 2024, 11:00 AM

Question Due Date: October 28, 2024

Bid Due Date: November 19, 2024

M/WBE Goals & Incentives: MBE goals: 21% - African American 2% - Hispanic American .50% - Asian American .50% - Native American WBE goal: 11%.

A five percent (5%) Bid discount shall be applied to construction, goods, and other services prime contracts on contracts $300,000 or less to prime African American, Hispanic American, Asian American, Native American and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Bidders.

Point of Contact: Gigi

may also be obtained by visiting our website at www.flystl.com/ business/contract-opportunites. Robert Salarano Airport Properties Division Manager

REQUEST FOR BIDS

Alberici Constructors, Kwame Building Group and the Saint Louis Zoo seek bids from qualified firms to submit proposals for a project at the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park. The project consists of providing low voltage and technology systems throughout the campus site and buildings. To request bid documents, please send an E-mail to stlzoobids@alberici.com

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District Requests for Quotes, Bids and Proposals are posted online for public download. Please navigate to www.msdprojectclear.org

REQUEST FOR BIDS

Millstone Weber, LLC is soliciting proposals for the removal and replacement of asphalt and concrete pavement, including demo, excavation, pavement markings, storm drains, electrical, steel reinforcement, traffic control, guardrail, and miscellaneous other work as indicated on the plans and specifications for the Improve I-70 Program Warrenton to Wentzville St. Charles & Warren Counties, MO. Project Number: JST0020 / J6I3033. Please phone 636-688-8794, fax 636-949-3129 or email bob.stubbs@ millstoneweber.com, quotes to bids@millstoneweber. com by 12:00 PM CDT on 10/16/2024. Millstone Weber encourages qualified MBE/ WBE subcontractors & vendors to bid this project. For Access to Plans and Specifications, please email bids@millstoneweber.com.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

The Land Clearance for Redevelopment Authority of the County of St. Louis (“LCRA”) requests proposals to purchase and redevelop an approximately 15-acre property, commonly known as the Plymouth Industrial Park and located at 6440 Page Avenue, Wellston, St. Louis County, Missouri 63133. Further information, including the complete RFP and a site informational packet, is available at https:// stlpartnership.com/rfp-rfq/ or upon request at LCRA’s offices. Proposals must be received no later than 3 PM CT on Friday, December 13, 2024.

Visit us at www.stlamerican.com

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BID

Sealed bids will be received by the Construction Manager, S. M. Wilson, at NORTHWEST R-1 SCHOOL DISTRICT Office– located at 4290 Gravois Road House Springs, MO 63051 or submitted through Building Connected, until 2:00 pm CDT, on Wednesday, October 30th, 2024, for

Northwest R-1 School District, Phase 2 - Bid Package 01Bus Barn

All work packages associated with the renovation including interior drainage and site improvements at the existing Bus Barn site.

Northwest R-1 School District, Phase 2 - VMS BWE MGEBP#02 Rebid

This is the Rebid of work packages WP 05A Structural Steel Fabrication & Erection and WP 32A Asphalt associated with the addition and site work at existing Valley Middle School, secure entry at the existing Brennan Woods Elementary and a wheelchair lift at the existing Maple Grove Elementary.

A Pre-bid Meeting for the Bus Barn will begin at 3:00 pm on October 15th, 2024, at Durham School Services located at 4260 Gravois Road House Springs, MO 63051.

No Pre-bid Meeting will be held for the VMS BME MGE - BO#02 Rebid project.

for an application Applications may be returned in person or by mail.

Monday-Friday 8-5 Managed by Related Management Company

Bids for Replace Fire Alarm PanelsInfrastructure, Eastern Reception and Diagnostic Correctional Center, Bonne Terre, Project No. C2405-01, will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, November 21, 2024 via MissouriBUYS. Bidders must be registered to bid. Project information available at: http://oa.mo.gov/ facilities

Bids for Replace Switchgear, Power Plant & Maintenance Building, Eastern Reception and Diagnostic Correctional Center, Bonne Terre, Project No. C233001 – Re-Bid, will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, November 21, 2024 via MissouriBUYS. Bidders must be registered to bid. Project information available at: http://oa.mo.gov/ facilities

The bid documents will be available for viewing on BuildingConnected.com. https://app.buildingconnected.com/public/5913928fce945d0a00d28943

The prevailing wage law is in effect on this project. Bidders must be in compliance with the rules and regulations of the Fair Employment Practices Commission.

S. M. Wilson contact is: Brian Nuehring, 314-306-7566 brian.nuehring@smwilson.com

Northwest R-1 School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. S. M. Wilson. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. S. M. Wilson strives to make our industry a more inclusive community and to sustain this model for future generations. Bidders agree to take all reasonable steps necessary to ensure Minority, Women and Disadvantaged Business Enterprises have an opportunity to participate in the performance of this project. Consideration of subcontract award may be based on diversity involvement.

a cigar before he started crooning for his brief but impressive set.

After being pleased, but not necessarily blown away by his music, seeing him perform the tracks from his “Rebirth of Marvin” and “October Nights” provided a greater appreciation for his homage to the days of the classic crooner. “Touch on Me,” “Mulholland Drive” and “Back to your Place” were among them.

He’s the unlikely new face of Death Row Records after being “put on” by Snoop Dogg. It will be interesting to see how his artistry evolves.

Jazmine Sullivan kicked off her set with a snippet of “10 Seconds” before hopping into “Bust Your Windows.” She was a teenager when music icon

Salute

Continued from C1

the ensemble spoke to me. One time for The St. Louis American’s Melvin Moore and his navy blue look! Something about taking a color risk while playing it somewhat safe with style and structure always does it for me. Which is why I’m giving a nod to SIUE Chancellor Dr. James T. Minor a shout out. That burgundy tux was the business, sir. And so was that satin straight tie worn by master of ceremonies (and Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis President and CEO) Michael McMillan. The powerbroker formalwear was perfectly catered to his overall personal style. I know he has an unfair advantage being that he is in the fashion retail business, but Neiman Marcus General Manager Daniel Kramer had me in a chokehold with those loafers as he presented special gifts to this year’s honorees.

Betting on black –Lifetime honoree THE Jackie JoynerKersee gave us a master class on how texture can level up the drama on a black dress as much as any pop of color.

The St. Louis American Foundation’s Raven Whitener was giving old Hollywood starlet in her black gown with a super slit that still kept it classy. Their outfits were two of dozens that have me contemplating black for Salute 2025.

Bedazzled divas –While JJK kept it classic, Stellar Performer Ellicia Lanier gave the girls Emerald City with her sequined green floor length form fitting gown with white and gold stripes. Her squad for the evening – HSSU President Dr. Latonia CollinsSmith and Jami Ballentine Dolby – were also slaying in their sequined gowns. They looked like The Dreamettes: that is if all three members were Deena Jones. I had to stop myself from asking them for an impromptu performance of “One Night Only.” Kira Cobb is now three for three with bringing top tier looks to Salute thanks to her black and gold leaf gown. Girl, did you have to snatch our souls like that with those velvet gloves?

Enchanted by the pants – If anyone had told me that my absolute favorite look of the evening and several runners-up would be women in pants, I would’ve said, “quit playing.” But that was definitely the case for 2024. Among them was Tavonda Palmer Harvey and her feathery top “tux-she-doe.” Her look demonstrated how big fashion risks can come with bold elegance as the reward. The St. Louis American’s Pam

Stevie Wonder prophesied that she would be the voice of her generation. More than 20 years later she is in her moment and rapidly ascending – particularly thanks to her most recent album “Heaux Tales.”

“Most of the women that she talked about on that last album are perceived by some of us in a certain way, but somehow [with the album] she humanized their experiences,” Maxwell said. “It’s a masterful thing.”

Sullivan was giving grown woman vibes as she performed a heavy helping of selections from “Heaux Tales” wearing a burgundy leather ensemble with matching thigh high boots. “Price Tags,” “BPW” “Pick Up Your Feelings” and “Girl Like Me” were among the highlights.

“This music matters,” Sullivan told the audience. She was preaching to the choir – a choir that knew

Simmons also brought the fashion heat when it came to the pants. If we had talked ahead of time about our Salute outfits and she told me she was wearing a purple ensemble that is one part romper and three parts evening gown, I would have told her to hang up the phone and go throw that thing away. But let me be the first to tell you that it ate down to the gristle! Linda Robinson and

all the words to the R&B classics that were played during the set up between the acts. Hearing them sing along to Mary J. Blige’s rendition of Chaka Khan’s “Sweet Thing” was proof of the value the music holds with them. They also knew every word of every song she presented them with from her debut album “Fearless” all the way through to her current album. She fought tooth and nail through sound woes that would have destroyed a lesser talent. And even with the band turned all the way up and her microphone volume set to whisper, she proved

herself to be vocally unmatched with songs like “In Love with Another Man,” “Burn,” “Round and Round” and “Need U Bad.” She left jaws on the floor with her “Pick Up Your Feelings” finale. Maxwell wore a beige and white ensemble that looked like he had just left

n “It’s because of all of you. Thank you so much for making my life what it is.”

- Maxwell said before shouting out the children of the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s.

a Middle Eastern oasis partying with oil money billionaires. He surprised the packed house by starting the show from the middle of the arena with “Simply Beautiful.” “Get to Know Ya” and “Lake by the Ocean” followed. “Sumthin’ Sumthin’” and “Bad

her formal pants ensemble with the train was doing it for me as well. And I don’t know her name, but the stunning woman in the black lace jumpsuit and Valentino belt cannot not be mentioned among the best dressed. I’ve saved my favorite pants look for last. Karen Gordy and her winter white cropped jacket and wide leg lady tux was absolutely everything. And

she had the nerve to pair it with a Minaudiere bird design clutch. I can’t 100 percent confirm the bag was Judith Leiber, but it sure looked like it. And the tux was giving Danielle Frankel, but again I can’t say with certainty. I was so mad that I didn’t take a closer look at her shoe game. Mainly because her pant legs were so wide. But let’s face it, she could have had on gas station

Habits” were the most popular tunes within the first half of the show that leaned heavily on deep cuts from his catalogue. At first it seemed as if it was going to be a show catered to the hardcore fans. He gave thanks to his ride or die fandom –particularly for rocking with him through his” Embrya” album. However, after “Whenever Wherever Whatever,” he devoted the rest of the show to the better known tracks – like “Fortunate,” “W/As My Girl” and “Lifetime.” Over the course of his 90-minute set, he made sure to spotlight members of his musical team that are natives of the region. The 30-second B3 organ solo by St. Louis native Shedrick Mitchell during “Fortunate” brought the house down. East St. Louis native Charles Haynes got it in on drums and percussion during “Bad Habits” and “Lake by the Ocean.”

flip flops and still taken home the grand fashion prize for Education Salute 2024. She was giving us the spirit of the late great Dominique Devereaux and I was absolutely shook. Other looks of note –this is for a hodge-podge showstopping looks that don’t fit in the other categories. One time for Naretha Hopson and her ability to upcycle cock-

There was a sense of bliss for his latest visit to St. Louis – and an even deeper intention to connect with the people who catapulted him from busboy to R&B staple. This was especially clear when he called out the different age groups from five separate decades.

“It’s because of all of you. Thank you so much for making my life what it is,” Maxwell said before shouting out the children of the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s.

“Now you understand what’s happening tonight. It’s a generational situation.”

He paid tribute to the life and music of Frankie Beverly with a moment of silence before jumping into his own cookout staple “Ascension (Don’t Ever Wonder).

“Thank you for making this music mean so much. Thank you for my life. I love you.”

tail wear to fit comfortably among the evening gowns by accessorizing to the gods. I must give it up to Danielle Smith – who stays slaying – and her burgundy gown. She was giving WNBA Victoria Monet. There was another woman who I can’t seem to identify who deserves mention for her green gown embellished with flowers at the hemline.

Join AARP in St. Louis for Trail Trekkers Veterans Hike & Food Drive Saturday, November 2 at Jefferson Barracks Park – Gold Star Shelter.

Hikers will explore the two trails in the park, along the Mississippi River for a 2.7-mile hike through Jefferson Barracks Park.

AARP will be accepting non-perishable food and household donations for Forces for Food Pantry, which serves active, reserve and veteran members of all military branches and their families.

To register for the hike and learn more about the collection, visit aarp.org/stlouis

Donation Drop Off November 2

9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Jefferson Barracks Park, Gold Star Shelter /aarpmo @aarpmo

St. LouiS AmericAn

& Wellness

HealtH & Wellness

Diabetes and your feet, what is essential to know

(StatePoint)

According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), the prevalence of diabetes in non-Hispanic Blacks is 11.7%, versus only 7.5% in non-Hispanic whites.

Foot ulcers develop in about 15% of the 25 million Americans living with diabetes and are a top cause of hospitalization. These ulcers can lead to serious complications, such as infection and amputation.

According to foot and ankle surgeons, there are steps you can take to prevent complications and keep your feet healthy, as well as breakthrough treatments that are saving limbs, restoring mobility and improving lives.

“The majority of lower-extremity amputations are preceded by a reoccurring foot sore or an ulcer that won’t heal,” says John S. Steinberg, DPM, FACFAS, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon and a fellow member and past president of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS).

“Patients do best when they take charge of their foot health with the help of a foot and ankle surgeon.”

The surgeon members of ACFAS are sharing some important insights into preventing foot ulcers associated with diabetes and treating them if they do occur.

Make these precautions part of your foot care routine:

• Inspect feet daily using a flashlight and mirror to see the bottoms of your feet.

• Moisturize dry, cracking feet to prevent sores. Use powder to control moisture that can result in blisters.

• To prevent injury, wear protective, well-fitting shoes and socks at all times, even in the house. Change socks daily and more often if your feet get wet or sweaty. Avoid socks with holes or seams. Sometimes diabetic shoes are prescribed to avoid pressure and rubbing on the feet.

• Get regular foot exams from a foot and ankle surgeon, which can reduce

amputation risk by 45-85%. The surgeon can also screen feet for loss of protective sensation.

• Manage your diabetes. Out-of-control blood sugar levels can lead to nerve cell damage, making it harder to detect foot problems.

Look for telltale signs that an ulcer may be developing:

• Swelling. The foot or ankle may look puffy or engorged and larger than the other.

• Temperature. Cold feet might mean a circulatory issue, whereas hot feet might mean infection.

• Color changes. Redness and even other colors might appear before an ulcer

forms.

• Calluses. If a callus changes colors or develops dark, “dried blood” colored spots, it may be time to have a foot and ankle surgeon offer a proper diagnosis.

If you do experience a non-healing ulcer, talk to your foot and ankle surgeon right away about innovative technologies that stimulate healing.

Groundbreaking approaches include stem cell therapy, the use of bioengineered skin substitutes to accelerate growth of healthy skin, and negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) to promote healing and enable healthy, new tissue to grow.

Today, foot and ankle surgeons rarely do a skin graft without NPWT. Skin grafting for foot ulcers has also advanced.

African Americans are almost twice as likely to have diabetes than white Americans. An important part of diabetes management is foot care. Black patients also have a higher rate of amputation because they are diabetic.

Surgeons now use advanced reconstructive surgery and grafting techniques to promote wound healing and decrease wound recurrence.

The success rate of these advanced therapies is high, providing substantial improvement over treatments of the nottoo-distant past, when doctors would clean and bandage the wound and hope for the best.

“Thanks to the many advances in diabetic foot care, patients today are having simpler surgeries, avoiding amputations, and getting back to everyday life sooner than ever before,” says Dr. Steinberg. For more information or to find a foot and ankle surgeon near you, visit FootHealthFacts.org, the patient education website of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.

Photo courtesy of StatePoint

Falling back into healthy habits

Walk, watch your diet

(StatePoint)

The fall season is upon us and it’s the perfect time to reset and renew. Simple and small modifications to your daily exercise and nutrition routines can make a huge difference—and these three easy tips will help you “fall” back into a good routine.

Sneak in extra steps

Fall is a refreshing time of year to get moving, especially as we welcome a break from the summer heat. Engaging in simple cardiovascular exercise weekly is key. It can help maintain healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels. If working out regularly is daunting, instead, find simple ways to be active in your daily life. Use a smaller cup for your water, allowing you to get up more often to refill it, take the stairs instead of the elevator or park a bit farther from your destination—all these habits will encourage you to take more steps per day.

Make healthy swaps

Looking to eat healthier? The fall season offers an abundance of delicious vegetables and fruits for an easy swap out. Start small by trading out a bag of chips for an apple or fries for sweet potatoes. You are what you eat, and your gut microbiome plays a major role in your health.

Ultra-processed diets negatively impact gut health and throw off the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, which can lead to chronic inflammation. Inflammation lessens your ability to function properly at the cellular level and increases your vulnerability to lifestyle diseases.

Focus on whole body health

A fall reset should focus on whole body health and that starts with your cells. Your body is made up of trillions of cells that help keep you functioning and thriving and supporting them is crucial.

Finding ways to take more steps each day, including walking in the fall air, can help maintain healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

Krill oil is an effective supplement for keeping your cells and whole body healthy. What distinguishes krill oil from other marine oils, is that it is a natural multi nutrient. Meaning, that from the source, krill oil already contains several essential and cellular nutrients all in one, including omega-3s, phospholipids, choline and astaxanthin. The body’s cells need to get these nutrients from the diet on a consistent basis.

In krill oil, the omega-3s are bound to phospholipids, making them more easily absorbed by the body. This means you get more of the beneficial omega-3s in a form that your body can use efficiently.

“By adding a supplement like krill oil to our lives, we are helping ourselves in a big way,” says Thomas Repstad, nutritionist and global technical marketing manager at Aker BioMarine, a biotech innovator and supplier of Superba Krill.

“The real X factor in krill oil is its phospholipid advantage. Around each cell and membrane, we have phospholipids that help maintain the cell’s strength, flexibility, and integrity. Phospholipids are also naturally found in krill oil, delivering total body benefits at a cellular level.”

Let these three tips be an easy and effective way for falling back into a healthy routine this season and beyond.

Learn more at www.krilloil.com.

Photo courtesy of pennmed.com

Keeping your brain healthy means keeping it active

By Reginald Williams The AFRO

For many aging adults, cognitive decline can create a good bit of anxiety.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, “while older Black Americans are twice as likely as older Whites to have Alzheimer’s or another dementia, research hasn’t yet identified the cause.”

The organization also reports that “among Black Americans ages 70 and older, 21.3% are living with Alzheimer’s, a type of dementia that affects memory,

thinking and behavior.”

Experts say lifestyle and social indoctrination are the primary culprits driving neurodegenerative disease– not aging.

“Aging is not a disease,” said Dr. Sharon Brangman, chair of the Department of Geriatrics at Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, New York.

“It’s a part of the natural process,”

Multitasking, often celebrated and exalted in the workplace, is a primary felon of brain decline.

Socially, multitasking is believed to be an aptitude that yields numerous ben-

efits. Research suggests that it reduces procrastination while increasing engagement and productivity. Business experts favor multitasking because they think it saves time and reduces costs.

One employee’s assumed multitasking flexibility often eliminates the need to hire additional employees. Experts believe multitasking improves mental agility. Medical research, however, counters the business perspective on multitasking.

According to Brangman, mind juggling poses one of the greatest threats to cognitive brain health.

“There’s a saying that multitasking makes you stupid. Your brain just can’t do multiple things at the same time, and it becomes even more difficult as we get older,” said Brangman, who also serves as the director of the Center of Excellence in Alzheimer’s Disease.

“Your boss or someone you work or interact with thinks it’s great if you can try to do multiple things at the same time. But our brains were made to do just one thing at a time. Actually, if you try to multitask, you can slow down

Banker pettigrewt@stifelbank.com | (314) 317-6902 (314) 550-2574 cell | NMLS# 398804

Fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy and lean protein should be on the menu for all seniors, especially African Americans because of higher rates of diabetes, hypertension and health ailments that can increase with age.

Avoid common obstacles to good nutrition

A key to healthy aging

(StatePoint)

Nutrition is critical to older adults’ overall vitality, providing energy, helping to control weight, and even preventing

and managing some diseases.

Unfortunately, 10% of older people don’t eat enough, while one-third eat too much, according to HealthinAging. org, which is the Health in Aging Foundation’s online public education resource. Such nutritional imbalances may be due to the range of common obstacles some people face as they age, including changing tastes, dental problems and difficulty accessing healthy

foods.

“Charles,” a Cigna Healthcare Medicare Advantage (MA) customer, had several health issues when he was introduced to a nutrition program available through his MA plan. Through the program, he worked with a registered dietitian, started working out, and lost nearly 50 pounds. These changes fueled him to tackle additional health goals, including getting mental health support and assis-

tance improving his sleep. MA plans, like those offered by Cigna Healthcare, include “extra benefits” not available through Original Medicare. The Cigna Healthcare MA nutrition program is one of those extras, and it primarily supports older adults with a body mass index below 22 or above 40, those with chronic diseases

Photo courtesy of StatePoint

Nutrition

Continued from D5

like diabetes and kidney disease, and those with low fruit and vegetable intake. Through the program, registered dietitians provide customers with dietary advice that can help them improve their health.

“We offer information, education and resources that are different for everybody and not restrictive,” explained Robin Neal, RD, one of the program’s dietitians. “The goal is to provide skills and tools so individuals can self-manage their diet after the program ends.”

Neal said results often include weight loss and improved blood sugar readings, such as those Charles experienced.

Of course, program advice varies by individual and their unique nutritional needs, but some tips everyone can benefit from include the following:

Get your nutrients. According to the National Council on Aging, older adults should eat a variety of foods to get all the nutrients they need, including lean protein for muscle mass, as well as fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lowfat dairy. Choose foods with little to no added sugar, saturated fats and sodium. For an example of what a healthy plate looks like, visit myplate.gov.

Stay hydrated. Drink water often to aid digestion. Limit beverages with lots of added sugars or salt.

Visit the dentist. If you’re having trouble chewing, visit your dentist. They may be able to help. For instance, if you have ill-fitting dentures, chewing can be improved and more comfortable with a better fit. Additionally, choosing softer foods, such as canned fruit, soups or tuna, may help. Dental visits are a covered benefit in many Medicare Advantage plans.

Follow food safety guidelines. Food not prepared properly can make you sick. Because those with weakened immune systems are vulnerable to foodborne illnesses, it’s especially important for older adults to follow food safety guidelines. If you have any doubt about a food’s safety, throw it out.

Limit salt. Too much sodium can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart attack and stroke. To stay heart healthy, ask your doctor for guidance on recommended daily sodium limits based

Drink water often to aid digestion. Limit beverages with lots of added sugars or salt.

on your health status and check food labels for sodium content. Cook more meals at home using lower sodium ingredients and avoid processed foods. Flavor dishes with herbs and spices.

Seek assistance if needed. Take advantage of MA plan benefits that can help you secure healthy foods, like transportation or grocery cards. Additionally, there are local and national programs to help those on limited incomes with nutritious food costs, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). To learn about assistance available in your area, visit cignacommunity.findhelp.com.

To find MA plans offered in your area, visit Medicare.gov. For information on Cigna Healthcare plans, visit CignaMedicareInformation.com.

“By devoting your time and attention to eating well, you’ll not only be able to maintain a healthy body weight, but you can also reduce your risk of chronic disease and maintain your overall vitality as you age,” said Neal.

“And, of course, if you have any questions about your health, you should always talk to your doctor.

Brain

Continued from D4

brain functions.”

Additionally, Black people are at higher risk of suffering from other health issues.

African Americans are disproportionately affected by high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes and heart disease. Lack of sleep and stress also exacerbate a disease cycle, too often caused by life choices and a lack of options tied to better health outcomes. This curates the perfect environment for chronic illnesses and diseases including dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease.

As a person ages, their brain will change in how it functions. However, forgetting things like why you entered a room or not being able to remember someone’s name is a natural, normal process of aging. Brangman maintains that the brain holds thoughts—storing lots of information. It behaves like a computer’s hard drive filled with data.

“It might take a little longer to get through all those files to get the right word out,” said Brangman. However, when forgetting information impacts the ability to get through the day, like what the Preyars experienced, it is the time to see a medical professional about overall

Walking is great for your health, and walking with partners does wonders for your brain, as well. Brain activity can help people avoid the Alzheimer’s.

Do you worry about running out of money during your retirement years? If so, how can you help prevent this from happening?

brain health.

Despite the prevalence of brain decline in African Americans, intentionally making good health choices reduces the risk of brain decay. Brangman says it’s essential that we know what to do to maintain brain health.

The Global Council on Brain Health (GCBH), in an article published by AARP on brain health, identified the following six pillars of brain health:

1. Be social

2. Enjoy your brain

3. Manage stress

4. Engage in exercise

5. Make sure to experience restorative sleep – no less than eight hours

6. Eat nutritionally dense meals

Forgetting things doesn’t mean you are in an Alzheimer’s or dementia episode; it’s a typical path of cognitive aging. Be cognizant of potential brain deterioration, but know you can proactively help reduce brain dysfunction.

Additional resources for cognitive health are located at https://mcknightbrain.org/brainworks/

In the first place, if you have this type of fear, you’re far from alone. Consider this: 58% of retirement savers from all age groups, including current retirees, say that outliving their assets is their greatest retirement fear, according to a study by Cerulli Associates, a financial services research organization. This type of fear can certainly affect your quality of life when you retire. Still, there’s no need to panic — because you can take steps to help prevent the running-out-ofmoney scenario.

Here are a few to consider:

Know how much you’ll need during retirement. You need to get a clear picture, or at least as good an estimate as possible, of how much money you’ll need to support your retirement lifestyle. Once you do retire, some costs, such as transportation or other work-related expenses, might go down, while others — medical expenses, in particular — will likely go up. The fear of running out of money, like many fears, is caused largely by what you don’t know, so having a good sense of how much you’ll need in retirement can help reduce your anxieties.

Build financial resources before retirement. You’re probably at your peak earning capacity in the years close to your retirement, so consider contributing as much as you can afford to your IRA and 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan.

Maximize your Social Security payments. You can start collecting Social Security as early as 62, but your monthly benefits will be larger if you can afford to wait until your full retirement age, between 66 and 67. (Payments will “max out” at age 70.)

Re-enter the workforce. Going back to work in some capacity is one way to possibly help build retirement resources and delay taking Social Security. If you have a particular area

of expertise, and you enjoyed the work you did, you might be able to go back to it on a part-time basis or do some consulting. You could boost your cash flow, and potentially extend your contributions to an IRA and to an employer’s retirement plan.

Cut costs during retirement. Possibly the biggest cost-cutting measure is downsizing — are you willing and able to move to a less expensive area or scale down your current living space? Of course, this is an emotional decision, as well as a financial one, and downsizing isn’t for everyone, but it might be something to at least consider. As for the lesser ways of reducing expenses, take advantage of senior discounts, which are offered in many areas, including entertainment, public transportation, restaurants and retail establishments. And look for other opportunities, such as cutting out streaming services you don’t use.

Look for more income from your investments. As you get closer to retirement, and even when you do retire, you might want to adjust your investment portfolio to provide you with more income-producing opportunities. However, even as a retiree, you’ll want some growth potential in your investments to help keep you ahead of inflation.

Ultimately, the more you can bolster your financial security before and during retirement, the less fear you may have of outliving your money.

Aaron Ezell, CRPC®

9666 Olive Blvd Suite 180

Olivette, MO 63132

314-997-4905

aaron.ezell@edwardjones.com

Photo courtesy of the University of Washington

Four tips for choosing the right Medicare plan

(StatePoint)

With so many Medicare options available, selecting a plan can seem daunting. This year you may be wondering how news of Medicare drug price negotiations, economic uncertainties and other factors may impact your coverage in 2025.

Medicare is the government health insurance program for Americans 65 and older and others who qualify, providing hospital coverage (Part A) and physician visits (Part B) to beneficiaries. Additionally, there are a variety of options that coordinate with original Medicare, such as Medicare Supplement plans and Prescription Drug Plans, or replace original Medicare with Medicare Advantage (MA) plans combined with Prescription Drug Plans.

During this year’s Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), which takes place between Oct. 15-Dec. 7, 2024, here’s what Cigna Healthcare, which serves millions of Medicare customers nationwide, wants you to know:

1. Check for plan changes: If your current plan is working for you, you can likely keep it. However, it’s a good idea to review your plan every AEP, especially if you’ve experienced major life, health or financial changes. Any changes to your current plan will be outlined in your Medicare plan’s Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) letter, which you can expect to receive in September.

2. Research your coverage: There are a few key things to watch for when shopping for a plan. One of them is whether your favorite providers and specialists will be in-network. You should also review each plan’s formulary – that is, the list of drugs covered under the plan. You’ll want to find a plan that

Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) runs through Dec. 7. Current recipients should check their respective plans for changes. If satisfied with the plan, you likely can keep it.

will cover your current medications and any you anticipate your doctor prescribing over the course of the year ahead. Finally, carefully consider your total spend for your prescription drug plan coverage (i.e., premiums plus pharmacy costs) since the maximum out-of-pocket costs for drugs you utilize will be capped at $2,000 in 2025.

3. Look for value: No matter what the economic outlook is, it’s wise to select a plan that provides great value. To that end, you may want to consider an MA plan, which offers quality and affordability. MA plans cover everything

original Medicare does, plus more; most also include dental, vision and hearing benefits, prescription drug coverage, and other extras like over-the-counter drugs, transportation to doctor’s visits and pharmacies, healthy grocery purchases, and fitness services. MA plans are often available with $0 premiums, but you’ll also want to check on what your annual out-of-pocket costs could be based on your health status.

4. Understand your plan: Before enrolling in a particular plan, make sure you understand its ins and outs. Call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-

633-4227) 24/7; TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048. Or, visit the Medicare Plan Finder website at Medicare.gov/ plan-compare. For local assistance, refer to the State Health Insurance Assistance Program at www.shiptacenter.org. You can also contact individual Medicare plans, including Cigna Healthcare at CignaMedicareInformation.com.

“AEP is your opportunity to assess your budget and your health needs and find an option that will work for you and your lifestyle in 2025,” says Ryan Kocher, chief growth officer for Cigna Healthcare Medicare.

Photo courtesy of StatePoint