November 22nd, 2012 edition

Service, diversity stressed at Salute

By Chris King

‘Change agent’leaves ACLU

By Rebecca S.Rivas

The St.Louis American

Brenda Jones

Photo by Wiley Price

Photo by Wiley Price

Dr.James M. Whittico Jr.

Second accuser leads

Kevin Clash to leave Sesame Street

Sesame Street has accepted the resignation of Kevin Clash after a second young man came forward accusing Elmo voice actor Kevin Clash of sexual misconduct with a minor.

“Kevin Clash has helped us achieve that mission for 28 years, and none of us, especially Kevin, want anything to divert our attention from our focus on serving as a leading educational organization,” Sesame Street said in a statement. “Unfortunately, the controversy surrounding Kevin’s personal life has become a distraction that none of us want, and he has concluded that he can no longer be effective in his job and has resigned from Sesame Street. This is a sad day for Sesame Street.”

said another man –who is now in his 30s – has filed a lawsuit against Clash. This man claims the two met on a gay phone chat line back in 1993, when the accuser was 15 years old and Clash was 32.

The accuser claims while Clash was featured on “Sesame Street,” he was “preying on teenage boys to satisfy his depraved sexual interests.

In the lawsuit, filed in federal court in NYC, the accuser claims Clash “groomed [the accuser] to gain his trust by, among other things, taking him to nice dinners and giving him money.”

A week after a man accused Clash, and then recanted claims of sexual misconduct when he was 16, celebrity news and gossip site TMZ

According to TMZ, the accuser claims although the sex occurred nearly 20 years ago, he didn’t take action until now because he “did not become aware that he had suffered adverse psychological and emotional effects from Kevin Clash’s sexual acts and conduct until 2012.” The accuser is demanding more than $5 million.

Shyne says 50 cent was about that snitch life

In an interview with Allhiphop.com, rapper Shyne claims 50 Cent broke the golden gangster rule of “no snitching” during his early

days in the rap game and in doing so had a hand in the collapse of Murder Inc. “When I met [50 Cent] he was writing raps for Diddy on Forever. This was after Gotti and them poked him up in the Hit Factory and he ran to the cops and got a order of protection. He was walking around with a group of police, NYPD was holding him down. He hadn’t sold one record. He hadn’t even put an album out. 50 Cent was nobody, nobody knew who he was. He was hiding from Irv Gotti and Murder Inc. He’s the reason that Irv got indicted. He’s the reason that Kenneth Supreme McGriff is in prison for the rest of his life.”

Mashonda claims Alicia Keys is ‘recreating truth’

to fight what’s not true.” Mashonda says otherwise. “You can’t recreate the truth, it was already made,” Mashonda said via her twitter account. “’Adding insult to injury’ was derived from the fables of Phaedrus back in the first century A.D. apparently it is still alive in 2012.”

In her recent cover interview with Jet Magazine Alicia Keys claimed Swizz Beatz was separated from his ex-wife Mashonda Loyal long before she and Swizz ever got together. [They] were apart for some time before we ever got together,” Keys told Jet. “…that doesn’t matter to those who take pleasure in trying to knock others down…there’s no need

Chris Brown’s wishful thinking about Nicole Scherzinger

Months after denying a close club encounter was romantic, Chris Brown admits trying to hook-up with singer/ actress/dancer and X-Factor judge Nicole Scherzinger

The pair were spotted talking closely last month, sparking speculation that Nicole had cheated on boyfriend, Formula 1 star Lewis Hamilton. While Scherzinger has completely denied any romantic entanglement, in a recent radio interview Brown joked he would have liked it if they had. “Dang I never got that,” told Power 106 FM. “I wish I did.”

Sources: TMZ.com, Allhiphop.com, Hollywoodscoop.com, Jet Magazine, Twitter.com, Ebonymag.com

Sophomore is ‘College Bound’

Myles Bastain, a Pattonville High School sophomore, was selected to participate in College Bound, a seven-year college preparation and success program that provides promising students with the academic enrichment, social supports and life skills needed to succeed in college

By Clarice Evans For

a few, often hides the endless possibilities of where our hidden strengths can take us. When we remove those labels, we replace them with the seal of hope. We encourage families to see that change is possible, they are capable, and we are available as a resource system to assist in their efforts of moving forward. Give a family a little hope today, and let’s keep moving forward.

Contact CWAH at 3963 West Belle Pl, St Louis, MO 63108 or call (314) 289-7523. Make all checks payable to CWAH. Thanks in advance for your support.

Case #8 – Ms. H, family includes mom, dad, and five children, 13 yr old daughter, 10 yr old son, Twin boys 7 yrs old and 5 yr old son. Mom is currently working full time and dad is working odd jobs after being laid off from his job. Very loving and hard working family who had just recently moved into their new home, could benefit from utility assistance, computer, clothing, and educational toys for children,

Case #9 - Ms. I, this mother of four works part time, children twin girls 6yrs old, 11 and 18 yr old sons. Family needs stable housing has been living with relatives from house to house after losing home. Twin beds, comforters, linen, coats, clothing, shoes and educational toys for the children would be greatly appreciated.

Case #10 Ms. J, mother of four, a newborn baby boy, 3 and 5 yr old girls and a 2yr old son. This young lady has endured a lot of hardships this year and could benefit from uniforms for her children blue or tops, blue or black bottoms, undergarments, clothing, shoes, toys and games for the children. Household items, towels, bedding, linen etc.; would also be welcomed.

Case # 11 Ms. K, is a mother of two, 7yr. old girl and a 10 yr old boy. Family is currently homeless and she is looking to go back to school. Family is in need of beds, linen, coats, clothing, shoes, boots and educational toys for children.

Case #12 – Ms. L is a dedicated mother who recently became unemployed, and in need of moving in a different direction. She is trying to get back in school and is in need of transportation to look for a job and go to school. She has 2 children ages 16, and 4. Needs include; bus tickets, winter clothing, twin beds, new job, computer and educational toys for younger child.

Case # 13– Ms. M, is a mother of three, with an 18yr old son who helps her make ends meet, and to help take care of his 13 yr old younger brother and 4 month old sister. Family needs utility assistance, clothing, twin beds, shoes and coats.

Case #14 – Ms. N, grandmother left to care for 7 grandchildren with little income needs assistance with medical bills for children, beds, clothing, linen, shoes, winter coats, jackets, boots and educational toys

and in a future career. CollegeBound’s year-round curriculum includes career exposure, community engagement, test preparation and academic enrichment to help students succeed in and graduate from college. Myles applied for the program last year.

EdITORIAL /COMMENTARy

For those with few reasons to give thanks

The Ga people of Ghana, West Africa, begin a celebration in August that continues as a monthlong thanksgiving known as Ga Homowo – the Harvest Festival. Many ethnic groups in Ghana and all over Africa have similar traditions. Ceremonies and rituals vary, but the purpose is the same – remembering lean times, being thankful for present blessings and praying for future abundance.

There are no written documents to account for the origin of Homowo. But, according to traditional stories, the Ga people emigrated from the Middle East and descended throughout the Sahara to Benin City in Nigeria. They settled there for a time before relocating to Accra, some time between the 14th 16th centuries.

Legends say the Ga had only a bit of corn and palm oil when they landed, which women ground and mixed together to make kpokpoi. After the men caught fish, the clan enjoyed their first meal after landing –kpokpoi and fish soup.

The immigrants planted millet and corn seeds they had brought with them. Then, they endured a long, lean waiting period while crops matured. When the harvest came, the Ga held a feast and gave thanks to their gods. The first celebration became the Hom Yi Womo, meaning a “hooting at hunger.”

their hands and opened their hearts. Their hospitality and support helped Europeans survive in an unfamiliar land.

We know of the bitter and bloody relationship that developed when conquest and colonization replaced the spirit of sharing and cooperation. The vicious assault on Native Americans is not widely discussed anymore. The holiday has come to mean turkey and the trimmings, preChristmas sales and football. The history of the brutal process used by Europeans to dispossess Native Americans of their land is not pretty. And now it is almost completely ignored. In Heart , Joseph Conrad had Marlowe define the “conquest of the earth” as “taking from those who have a different complexion or slightly

Thanksgiving began in the United States in the 17th century as a celebration, a friendly coming-together of European settlers and the indigenous people of North America. The Native Americans had welcomed the pilgrims to this land and shared the vast knowledge they had about the continent’s flora and fauna. They explained planting corn and plowing, and taught the newcomers trapping and fishing. Reportedly, both peoples slaughtered turkeys and made dressing and had a version of cranberry sauce at the first Thanksgiving. They feasted together. During those tough early days for the newcomers, Native Americans extended

GOP should stop, breathe, learn

I have a sinking feeling the Republican Party is taking all the wrong lessons from the election. Short-term, that’s a boon for Democrats. Long-term, it’s a problem for the country.

In both sub-Saharan Africa and North America, the native people were mostly cooperative in the early days of European arrival. Nevertheless, conquest and colonization ensued later on both sides of the Atlantic.

Although some of us of African descent in this country now enjoy modest affluence, the overall status of our people must be defined largely in terms of the less fortunate.

For those without jobs, without hope or dignity in the ghettos of St. Louis, or the squalor of Soweto and Port-au-Prince, Thanksgiving is meaningless and is certainly no holiday. It is mostly a grim reminder of their misery and powerlessness.

African Americans should not forget the early occasion that brought this particular holiday into existence in this country. We must dedicate ourselves to remember the “least among us” in a society that has effectively shut out so many of our people. Indeed, we are especially obligated to support policies and initiatives that strengthen family life and enable the poor to share in the nation’s bounty.

This is The St. Louis American’s annual Thanksgiving Message.

As i see it - A Forum for Community Issues

We can’t go over the fiscal cliff

As the ranking member on the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Domestic Monetary Policy and Technology, let me simply state the hard truth.

To avoid the fiscal cliff and to get our budget deficit and the national debt under control, we need to do three things simultaneously: cut spending, increase revenue and have the courage to put everything on the table in a responsible, bipartisan manner. If we fail to act decisively this time or just punt again to next year, the damage to our still-recovering economy could be massive, and the unanticipated negative consequences could prove catastrophic.

In a just-issued post-election report, the Congressional Budget Office warned that if we fail to forge an agreement, the economy would fall into a serious recession and unemployment would jump from the current 7.9 percent to 9.1 percent by the end of 2013. All of the economic progress we have made during the past 31 months could be wiped out in a matter of weeks.

The CBO report also sounded the alarm about a grave danger to an estimated 41 million middle-class families who would be seriously harmed if Congress does not provide a patch for the alternative minimum tax as part of this agreement.

The Simpson-Bowles commission laid out a road map containing some common-sense parameters to guide us toward a realistic compromise that can actually become law.

The Simpson-Bowles

framework suggests that, at a minimum, the government needs to adopt a $4 trillion fiscal stabilization program over the next 10 to 12 years. That plan would cut domestic spending, trim military expenditures, close tax loopholes and find structural savings in Medicare and Medicaid.

Last year, President Barack Obama and our Democratic leadership proposed a 3-to-1 formula that would cut $3 in federal spending for every $1 in increased revenue.

We are even willing to discuss significant savings in Medicare and Medicaid, as long as essential benefits for seniors and the most vulnerable are preserved.

Some spending reduction proposals should be easy to agree on:

• Ending subsidies to big oil companies that are reaping record profits would raise $40 billion over the next decade.

• Changing an IRS tax rule that applies mostly to oil companies would generate $72 billion.

• Forcing hedge fund managers to pay their fair share of income taxes would raise $20 billion.

• Eliminating tax credits for ethanol and ending unneeded agricultural subsidies would save $116 billion.

• Selling off unused or under-utilized federal buildings would save $24 billion.

I am also committed to fundamentally reforming and simplifying the tax code.

Last year, Democrats proposed limiting the total value of deductions for taxpayers who earn more than $500,000 per year. That single change in the tax code would bring in $100 billion in new revenue over the next 10 years.

But cuts to domestic spending and tax reform will

not be enough. The Defense Department must put its cards on the table, too.

During the past 11 years, the United States has spent more than $1.3 trillion in Iraq and Afghanistan for two wars that were charged on the national credit card with no provision to pay for them.

Thankfully, the president ended the war in Iraq and we are drawing down in Afghanistan. If properly redirected, the peace dividend achieved from ending these conflicts could have a major effect on deficit reduction. But these savings are just the tip of the iceberg in cutting the fat at the Pentagon.

Eliminating the purchase of obsolete spare parts for all branches of the military would save $369 billion over the next decade. Fully implementing the reforms recommended by the bipartisan defense acquisition panel would save $270 billion. Realigning our nuclear arsenal to meet 21st-century threats would save $113 billion.

The American people expect Democrats and Republicans to leave behind the overheated partisan rhetoric from both sides that has often produced congressional gridlock. I know that we can do this because the alternative of letting the country go over the fiscal cliff is unthinkable.

My Republican friends and I approach major policy questions from very different perspectives, but we share a common love for this country and a mutual responsibility to act like adults and carry out the people’s business. After all, that’s why the voters hired us to do this job.

Rep. William Lacy Clay, D-Mo., is a senior member of the Financial Services and Oversight and Government Reform committees.

Reprinted from Roll Call.

The GOP should be listening to reasonable voices such as that of Newt Gingrich. He has occasional moments of lucidity, and one came on the Today show when he said Republicans “need to stop, take a deep breath and learn.”

“I was wrong last week, as was virtually every major Republican analyst,” Gingrich said. “And so, you have to stop and say to yourself, ‘If I was that far off, what do I need to learn to better understand America?’”

The voices the party should ignore include those claiming that House Republicans, by retaining their majority, won some sort of mandate to continue pushing a radical conservative agenda. A mandate for the GOP? Don’t make me hurt myself laughing. The ideological hero and policy guru of the House Republican caucus, Paul Ryan, couldn’t even carry his hometown of Janesville, Wis. (And Mitt

Romney lost all of his various home states.)

Look, President Obama won 332 electoral votes to 206 for Romney. Much has been written about the demographic shifts that threaten the GOP’s future, but there has been less acknowledgement of an obvious fact about the present: Voters preferred Obama’s policies to Romney’s.

Obama said he will insist on a “balanced approach” to taming the deficit, involving new revenues as well as spending cuts.

Polls show this is what voters want. The election proved this is what voters want.

But I fear some Republicans are convincing themselves that their “mandate” requires further obstructionism of the kind we’ve seen in the last two years.

Some conservatives even seem tempted to listen to the delusional post-game analysis coming from Romney and Ryan. This is the way to ridicule and ruin.

Ryan said the problem was that he and Romney lost by big margins in “urban” areas – which I take as a synonym for “places where minorities live.” But Republicans always lose in the inner cities. It’s the vote-heavy suburbs, such as Virginia’s Fairfax County, where Romney and Ryan failed to connect. And as for Obamacare: “You can imagine for somebody

Letters to the editor

Thank you, St. Louis

I am so proud of the St. Louis community, where I was born and raised, and how it contributed to United Way this year. You all went above and beyond by donating an all-time high of $72,019,850 to United Way’s annual campaign to help people right here. Because of you, United Way will be able to support more than 170 agencies and help one out of three people in our community.

I am especially grateful to the African-American community for breaking giving records in a challenging economic environment. The results this year prove the citizens of St. Louis are caring people who believe we are all in this together and those who have are responsible for helping those who are less fortunate. Thank you, St. Louis. You are amazing.

Reuben Shelton de Tocqueville chair

2012 United Way African American Leadership Society

Speaking out against Koster

I’m happy George Allen was released from prison. I’m still waiting on the AfricanAmerican elected and former elected officials that supported Attorney General Chris Koster in 2008 to speak out what Attorney General Chris Koster is doing to George Allen. Remember they walked Attorney General Chris Koster in the African-American community telling everyone that he would be good for the African-American community.

I guess they’re quiet since Attorney General Chris Koster will be running for Governor in 2016 and he will have them on the payroll. We all know the African Americans that were supporting Attorney Chris Koster in 2008. They’re a bunch of sad people I do give Congressman Wm. Lacy Clay credit for taking his stand with Koster on the matter.

Patrice Davis, Via email

Local control and political football

Politicians in the city of St. Louis must surely be joyful! After 150 years of kowtowing

making $25,000 or $30,000 or $35,000 a year, being told you’re now going to get free health care, particularly if you don’t have it, getting free health care worth, what, $10,000 per family, in perpetuity – I mean, this is huge. ... Likewise with Hispanic voters, free health care was a big plus.” It doesn’t occur to Romney that Republicans might have countered this alleged giftgiving with a health care reform plan of their own, other than “go to the emergency room.” If the GOP is really this obtuse, Democrats may win the next few elections without having to break a sweat. And that’s the danger I hope we avoid. Don’t get me wrong: I want progressive candidates to win those elections. But parties without meaningful competition become flabby, lazy, unresponsive. Democratic candidates shouldn’t win by default, and neither should progressive ideas. A smart, creative, reality-based conservative movement is ultimately good for the liberal cause – and good for the country. Step out of the echo chamber, Republicans. There’s a big country out there, and it’s trying to tell you something. For the sake of party and nation, try listening. Eugene Robinson’s email address is eugenerobinson@ washpost.com.

to politicians from Bubba Land (out-state Missouri), the city will soon have control of its very own police department. Thank you, Proposition A. Now the games begin!

The police department in St. Louis has long been a political football. When the department reverts to local control next year, state rules will no longer apply. City politics will dictate the rules of the law enforcement game, so local players are now auditioning for positions on the team, scrambling to garner power or influence which will be wielded from the opening kickoff.

Various citizen groups in the city have long focused on establishing a civilian review board in order to mold a police force that is responsible to the citizens it serves. While their efforts are laudable, these groups are third string players and will only be allowed to play late in the game. And their focus is unfortunately myopic. A civilian review board is not the means to achieve their stated goal because civilian review is an “after the fact” issue.

Establishing a police force that is responsive to the citizenry begins at the employment office. If nepotism and cronyism are permitted in the hiring process, the St. Louis PD will be little more than a mirror image of its neighbor across the Mississippi.

Michael K. Broughton, Green Park

Congratulations, Mr. President!

Congratulations, Mr. President! We showed Romney. I’m so glad the election is over and we do not have to listen to the campaign ads anymore. It was bad enough listening to the Missouri ads and we were even getting the Illinois ads.

Craig Johnson, St. Louis

Feedback on next police chief

The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department recently held Neighborhood Forums to give citizens the opportunity to provide input for the selection of the City’s next Police Chief. While we experienced a great turnout, we still want to hear from those citizens

who were unable to attend the Neighborhood Forums, but wish to comment on the qualities of the next Police Chief. The Metropolitan Police Department has set up an email address so those citizens can provide input as well. Citizens can email us at chiefqualities@ slmpd.org.

Schron y. Jackson Metropolitan Police Dept. City of St. Louis

Columnist Eugene Robinson

Guest Columnist

Rep. William Lacy Clay

Walgreens Expressions Challenge deadline

Nov. 30

The Walgreens Expressions Challenge (Expressions Challenge), an incentive based contest for high school teens ages 14 to 18 to enter their creative perspective on healthy choice topics, runs through November 30 in Chicago and St. Louis. Teens compete to win up to $2,000 in cash.

The Expressions Challenge motivates teens to voice their opinion on topics including: selfesteem, teen pregnancy, STD prevention, abstinence, sexting, and sexual responsibility and awareness. Entrants may submit their perspective in one of three categories: Creative Writing, Multimedia and Visual Arts. At the conclusion of the contest finalists are selected in each category and their entries are judged by an expert panel of educators and artists. Finalists and their parents, teacher, principal, and program organizer are invited to a private award ceremony where they will be recognized and receive their winnings in both the Chicago and St. Louis area. For more information, visit http://www.expressionschallenge.com/.

Lady Lions crowned district champs

The University City High School varsity girls volleyball team hosted the Class 3,District 4 tournament and were crowned district champs.The team’s quest for the state title ended however after they advanced to the sectionals round of the state tournament series and faced Lutheran South High School.Top row from left to right:Ellie Ashley,head coach; Alleyah Glenn,Marlena Jones,Precious Foster,Kanesha Jenkins and Kevin StapletonCloud,assistant coach.Bottom row from left to right:Anamaria Zaggy,Ashley Moore,Najh Wilson and Jazzmine Mason.

Novemberis National Home Care Month

During the month of November, the medical profession recognizes National Home Care Month.

At Home Care St. Louis is celebrating the powerful impact the committed staff has on the community. At Home Care St. Louis serves St. Louis County, St. Louis City and St. Charles.

“We would like to take this opportunity to salute the extraordinary health care providers who work tirelessly to provide medical care,” said Carlita Vasser, President and CEO of At Home Care St. Louis.

These home care professionals provide their patients home care in the comfort of the patient’s home. Home care provides non-medical care for home patients with the goal of helping them remain more independent within their home setting. At Home Care St. Louis Care Managers work closely with the patient, the family and the physicians to provide a collaborative plan of care. For more information on At Home Care St. Louis services, call314-739-2100 or visit www.AtHomeCareStLouis.com

Blowing the whistle forthe IRS

By Alma M.Scarborough For The St.Louis American

Under the IRS Whistleblower Reward Program, an individual who exposes tax fraud can receive an award ranging from 15 percent to 30 percent of the proceeds recovered by the IRS. It is essential that you notice the word “recovered.”

You may whistle all you want, but until the money is recovered you get “thank you.”

To qualify for an award, the tax, penalties, interest, additions to tax, and additional amounts in dispute must exceed $2,000,000. Who has that kind of money floating around? Who knows someone with that type of dough? I think this may be a bit out of reach for many of us, but in case you do these are the rules.

Should the individual in lieu of a company be the allegedly noncompliant entity, the individual’s gross income must exceed $200,000.

After the IRS completes an investigation, the Whistleblower Office will issue a final determination regarding the whistleblower’s award amount. If the whistleblower feels that the award does not adequately reflect his or her contribution, the whistleblower may appeal the IRS’s decision to the Tax Court within 30 days. I would be interested to know how far you get with that appeal. The IRS will maintain the confidentiality of the whistleblower’s identity throughout the initial investigation process. If, however, the whistleblower’s testimony is needed in a judicial proceeding to further the IRS’investigation, the whistleblower’s identity may be revealed.

Other federal and local laws, however, may provide tax fraud whistleblowers with protection – therefore, it is recommended that you consult with an attorney regarding your rights and protections as a whistleblower. Or you may consider being on alert to move your residence at any given time.

The statute of limitations for making a disclosure under the IRS Whistleblower Reward Program is three years from the time the tax return was filed, but if the disclosure concerns an omission in excess of 25 percent of the gross income stated in a tax return filed with the IRS, the statute of limitations extends to six years. The statute of limitations does not apply where a false or fraudulent tax return was filed with the intent to commit tax evasion. In plain English, you may need professional tax advice to see if you are within the correct timeframe.

IRS investigations can take years to complete, but a detailed disclosure can shorten the process. Payment of awards will not be made until there is a final determination of the tax liability that is owed to the IRS and the owed funds are collected by the IRS.

I am of the opinion that this Whistle Blower Program may not pay off until you run out of air. Your grandchildren may profit from it, but I do not suggest you go shopping too early. Alma M Scarborough, enrolled agent, may be reached via www.taxhitlady.com or taxhitlady@sbcglobal.net.

Alma M. Scarborough

JONES

Continued from A1

state’s two ACLU offices –ACLU of Eastern Missouri and ACLU of Western Missouri –into joining into one.

“I think that Brenda has some really intellectual understanding of a more modern governance structure,” said Sheila Greenbaum, president of the affiliate board and a shareholder of Capes, Sokol, Goodman and Sarachan.

Under Jones’ leadership, the ACLU is taking on more cases of civil liberties violations than ever and winning more cases than ever, she said.

pairs the symphony orchestra with the best choirs in the African-American churches in St. Louis.

“It’s real diversity.We’re a different group of people now.”

– Brenda Jones

“You have to come in and talk about change, and it doesn’t always go down easy – that’s probably the understatement of the year,” Jones said. “To make some of those changes, I’ve been very controversial.”

Yet she had strong support from people who shared her vision.

“The people who are change agents tend to be controversial,” Greenbaum, said. “It may be that it’s a compliment.”

In January, Jones said she looks forward to letting a new director take the organization through its next steps.

“I don’t believe I’m the right person to take it to the next level,” she said. “It’s been a history-making period. Now I am looking for concrete ways to volunteer and to do some other meaningful things.”

Before ACLU

Jones has a knack for entering into an organization and providing what it needs. Prior to the ACLU, Jones ran the outreach programs for the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. She was one of the leaders in creating IN UNISON, which

“It happened under a period when the symphony was under fire for being elitist, for borrowing money from the state, and because the audience wasn’t reflective of the community,” Jones said. She also fought to establish more art programs in underserved areas throughout the state when she ran the Missouri AfricanAmerican Cultural Initiative. After three years, the program’s budget got caught up in politics and came to an end, she said. She went on to lead successful outreach programs for the Missouri Botanical Gardens.

“Public funding is going into these institutions,” she said. “They are wonderful organizations. They need to be inclusive – and that’s more than just inviting them to be members.”

Police accountability

When she arrived at the ACLU, the civil liberties violations in the region were overwhelming. She knew the organization had to grow in order to tackle them. Police accountability has always been a big deal to the ACLU, she said. Jones told the board of directors that the ACLU needed to take on more cases.

“Unless someone makes it cost something for police to keep behaving this way, it’s not going to stop,” she said. “Let’s make it cost something. We have brought forth a number of cases in my time and won a lot of cases.”

Redditt Hudson, a former ACLU associate who worked on police accountability issues, said, “If there were any violations, Brenda made sure we were quick to respond, and aggressively, in our advocacy when it comes to abuse of

Stewards at the symphony

police authority. And yet we maintained a good relation with the police.”

More than ever, the ACLU is known throughout the African-American community for its advocacy and outreach. Hudson said previously many people in the black community didn’t know what the ACLU was.

“When you have an organization that has as its mission to defend civil liberties in Eastern Missouri, that was a disconnect that needed to be fixed,” he said. “That has everything to do with Brenda’s efforts.”

Jones also created the Muslim Rights Taskforce. In their outreach, they found that the Muslim community needed help dealing with the FBI.

“FBI agents come to a lot

of Muslims’houses and say they just want to ask you a few questions,” Jones said. “Alot of them felt like they had to talk with the FBI. They want to cooperate.”

The ACLU created a program to train volunteer attorneys to be able to step in when citizens find themselves in that situation.

The N-word

Still, the last eight years were filled with many sleepless nights for Jones.

“There were a lot of people who felt like I didn’t belong in this position,” she said. “I’m not a lawyer, and I’m not a constitutional scholar. But I know how to grow an organi-

zation. I know how to organize resources to get the best out of it. I know what diversity is, and it’s not window dressing for me.”

In the beginning, one of the board directors was using the “N-word,” which was reported in the press and caused division within the organization.

“Here I am an AfricanAmerican director trying to run the organization and you have people debating whether this is a free speech issue,” she said. “When you are trying to come into an organization that has been traditionally led by people who are not of color, you really have to prove yourself on a different level, whether people admit it or not.”

Many feel the ACLU is fundamentally a different organization now.

Greenbaum said, “She leaves us with a much more diverse board, not only by race and ethnicity but also by age.”

“It’s real diversity,” Jones said. “The kind of diversity that we are not interested in people using the ‘N-word’and saying that’s somehow some great free speech thing. We’re a different group of people now.” Jones said she will bow out gracefully, knowing that future leaders will keep the mission vibrant.

“This is one of the most critical organizations that we have,” she said. “I’ll always be rooting for it.”

Thelma,Kim and David Steward and George Mitchell (left) enjoyed the Red Velvet Ball for the St.Louis Symphony Orchestra that the Stewards hosted recently at Powell Hall.The gala raised more than $800,000 to support the symphony.(This corrects a caption that ran in the Nov.15, 2012 edition.)

Photo courtesy SLSO

WHITTICO

school faculty member for most of his career. It would be difficult to find someone in the African-American community from St. Louis who doesn’t have a patient of Dr. Whittico in their family or friendship circle. His medical practice’s waiting area feels more like a family room than a doctor’s office. Appointments for the six to eight patients he treats daily –at age 97 – are spaced throughout the day so that no one feels rushed. Stacks of framed newspaper articles, awards, photos and memorabilia line the floors because the walls are filled to capacity in tribute to people and events that are special to him. It’s like Dr. Whittico’s own personal black history museum.

For his 97th birthday, his home church, Central Baptist Church, honored him by naming its health room after him following services on Sunday.

“Dr. Whittico, a devoted member of Central Baptist since 1948, World War II vet-

SALUTE

Continued from A1

eran, and community and church physician, is honored for ‘a lifetime of valued Christian, medical and community service,’” said the Rev. Robert C. Scott, senior pastor at Central Baptist. Dr. Whittico said it was quite an honor to get the health room named after him and he never thought anything like that would happen. But that is just like Dr. Whittico – unassuming and patient, tending to the sick and doing whatever needs to get done for his church. That has included serving on its constitution, bylaws and finance committees – and founding its health ministry.

Next to the love of his family, Dr. Whittico will tell you, he loves serving God. He loves serving others. He loves practicing medicine. And for the last 64 years, these passions have come together beautifully in his ministry at Central Baptist Church, which he first joined in 1948.

“I finished my residency in 1946, then I took two years in experimental surgery,” he says, “and during that time I found a little time to socialize and what not, dated and got married, and I been with them ever since.”

announced that the RCGA–one of the region’s most powerful business associations –had appointed Valerie Patton, executive director of the St. Louis Business Diversity Initiative, to serve as vice president of economic inclusion for the RCGA(see full story in the Business section, B1). And Barbara A. Washington, vice president of public relations and special events for Mathews-Dickey Boys’& Girls’Club, also delivered major news when accepting the 2012 NonProfit Executive of the Year Award. She announced that the youth service organization is struggling with operating expenses.

CONTROL

Continued from A1

Continued from A1 days a five-person transition team to oversee the process. (The mayor gets to appoint three members.) At least two members must come from a statewide police group. Of the members appointed by Slay, one must be the city police chief, and one must be a current or former member of the state-run Board of Police Commissioners that has overseen the department. The new law also stipulates that the St. Louis Board of Aldermen approve an ordinance authorizing the takeover.

Slay’s chief of staff Jeff Rainford said that meetings already are being held involving city department heads and counterparts within the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, which employs 1,317 commissioned officers and 520 civilians. Rainford points toa provision of the new lawstating that all commissioned and civilian employees on staff as of July 1 cannot be removed, except for cause.

“No civilian who has a job on the day of transition can lose their job,” Rainford said. Rainford also emphasized that local control will not include the police retirement system and pensions, which remain under state oversight. Such talk may be aimed at countering disparaging comments made by St. Louis Police Officers Association president David Bonenberger, who opposed Proposition A. The association ended up officially neutral, although some leaders supported the idea –particularly after a collective bargaining agreement was struck in 2011. Association business manager Jeff Roorda, who won back his old state House seat on Nov. 6, praised the mayor’s office. “It’s been a collaborative effort up until now,’’Roorda said.

The transition comes amid two other ongoing events: the selection of a new police chief

The Rev.Dr.Robert C.Scott,senior pastor at Central Baptist Church,congratulated congregant Dr.James M. Whittico Jr.when the church celebrated his 97th birthday on Sunday.Central Baptist named its health ministry room after Dr.Whittico following the service.

Soon after he joined Central Baptist and long before it became standard for churches, Dr. Whittico organized a health committee at the church.

“During that time, churches didn’t have any formalized medical services,” Dr. Whittico

in St. Louis where I can connect and be of service,” WallDover said.

“We need your support now more than ever,” Washington said during an emotional acceptance speech. “We need to make sure the funding is there. Young people come through our door needing all sorts of things.”

The 2012 Corporate Executive of the Year Pamela Wall-Dover, senior manager of supplier diversity at Boeing, spoke with her own passion about adapting to St. Louis as a transplant coming to the city as “a country girl from Franklin, Tenn.” Her breakthroughs were finding a church home at First Baptist Church in Chesterfield and pursuing community service through her sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha. “It was easy to find places

to replace Chief Dan Isom, who plans to retire Jan. 1 to join the faculty at the University of Missouri-St. Louis; and a city mayoral contest in March and April. Board of Aldermen President Lewis Reed is challenging Slay in the March Democratic primary.

The chief will be chosen by the existing police board, which includes Slay. Under current law, the new chief must be chosen from among internal candidates. Once Proposition Agoes into effect, the candidate pool for future chiefs can include outside candidates.

On July 1, the chief will have a new title, police commissioner, and report to the city’s director of public safety, a post currently held by Eddie Roth, a former member of the police board. The Department of Public Safety already oversees the city’s fire department.

Critics of Proposition A also aren’t going away.

At a recent news conference, Citizens Against Prop A – a coalition of various opponents, including the local chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union and the NAACP– reaffirmed that their concerns remain. They said too many voters didn’t understand all the provisions of Proposition A. The strongest opposition – 44 percent – was registered within the city, they said.

The coalition said that city officials should consider asking city voters to make some changes in the 1914 city charter, including a provision that allows the governor to get rid of the city police chief.

Spokesman John Chasnoff, program director with the ACLU, warned of provisions in the new law that close some police records. Jamala Rogers, the coalition’s coordinator, called for the Board of Aldermen to review the enabling legislation closely and not be a rubber stamp.

Edited for length and reprinted with permission from stlbeacon.org.

Community service and philanthropy were dominant themes. There was a shared subtext in the African American Leadership Giving Initiative at the United Way of Greater St. Louis having just announced a new annual record of $2.2 million raised to support the United Way’s 175 member agencies, including Mathews-Dickey.

Ann Marr, vice president of human resources for the Salute event’s lead sponsor World Wide Technology, Inc., commented on the successful United Way campaign. “St. Louis is a very giving town,” Marr said.

She introduced 2012 Entrepreneur of the Year Tim Slater, president of

said.

The church’s sanctuary at Washington and Ewing burned down in 1949, at which time he started the first medical services for the congregation.

“And there was no space,” he remembers. “There was an

Information Solutions Design, Inc., who also remarked on the new African American Leadership Giving fundraising record. “That’s something we should all be proud of,” Slater said. “We should stay connected with our city and engaged with the United Way.”

The sense of community at the event was striking, particularly given what a diverse group of awardees and guests were represented, everyone from minority small business owners to senior executives at the region’s largest employers.

The 2012 Corporate Diversity Award was accepted by two Nestlé Purina PetCare executives, Steve Degnan, VPand head of human resources, and Annette Morris, manager of meeting

alcove at the bottom of the stairs, so I just made the best I could with what I had.”

The church has been blessed with “what it had” over the years, with several members at various times who were doctors, nurses and other health professionals. Members of the church are now called “disciples” and the health committee is now the health “ministry.”

At one time, Dr. Whittico said the health ministry had five doctors; now he is the only physician serving with a team of 12 medically trained and authorized members. “We have a very good group,” he says, “and I am proud of them.”

He attends both services while making rounds in between to make sure he is in place if there is a medical emergency. For years, he said, he carried his “old-fashioned bag” until he weaned himself away from it in favor of a Red Cross emergency bag.

“It’s red and it looks a lot more modern,” he said with a laugh.

As a youngster in Williamson, West Virginia, Dr. Whittico (born in 1915) was

and travel service.

“Steve is a champion of change,” Morris said of her VP. “He is always seeking that new generation of diverse leaders. None of us is as good as all of us.”

Four Excellence in Business Performance Awards also were given to Patricia R. Coleman of Behavioral Health Response, Inc., Darron Lowe of Wells Fargo Advisors, Wendy Richardson of MasterCard Worldwide and Chris Tabourne of Enterprise Holdings.

The Top 25 AfricanAmerican Businesses of the Year were recognized at the reception before the luncheon.

Emcee Carol Daniel of KMOX remarked that two of those 25 businesses, Interface Construction Corporation and Vector Communications, are

active in his church, joining the choir at age 5, playing the piano and violin.

“I played the violin in the choir every Sunday, so I was sort of pretty well indoctrinated,” Dr. Whittico said. His mother, Nannie O. Whittico, served as superintendent of the summer vacation school.

Whittico’s career in medicine follows the footsteps of his father, a West Virginia physician, the late James. M. Whittico Sr. His father’s photo frames the right side of the top display shelf in the dapper doc’s office. As with bookends, his mother, an educator, frames the other side. In between are medical legends Dr. William H. Sinkler, a longtime medical director of Homer G. Phillips and surgeon; Dr. A. N. Vaughn, a Homer G. surgeon; Dr. Robert Edelman, a professor of surgery at Washington University; and radiologist Dr. William T. Allen of Homer G. and Saint Louis University, the first chairman of the National Medical Association. Dr. Whittico said, “They are considered the central people to make me whatever I was.”

owned by people who are married to one another, Samuel Hutchison and Laurna Godwin. “Congratulations for still being married,” Daniel teased them.

Donald M. Suggs, president of the St. Louis American Foundation, gave very brief opening remarks that set a warm tone for the event. “This is a very proud moment for me,” Suggs said, “because I get to thank you all and express how much we appreciate your continued support of our Salute program.” The invocation was delivered by Bishop Geoffrey V. Dudley Sr., senior pastor of New Life in Christ Interdenominational Church. Bishop Dudley prayed that God “enable all these businesses, profit and non-profit, to serve humanity.

Photo by Wiley Price

SALUTETO EXCELLENCEIN BUSINESS AWARDSAND NETWORKING LUNCHEON

More than 500 attended the 13th annual Salute to Excellence in Business Awards and Networking Luncheon last week at The Ritz Carlton,St.Louis.The special event was presented by the St.Louis American Foundation,St. Louis RCGA,and the Urban League of Metropolitan St.Louis.Among other awardees,Pamela Wall-Dover of Boeing was recognized as 2012 Corporate Executive of the Year,Barbara A.Washington of Mathews-Dickey Boys’& Girls’Club was recognized as 2012 Non-Profit Executive of the Year,Tim Slater of Information Solutions Design,Inc.was recognized as 2012 Entrepreneur of the Year,and Nestlé Purina PetCare received the 2012 Corporate Diversity Award.The region’s Top 25 African-American Businesses of the Year were also recognized at the event. Representatives of the Top 25 African-American Businesses of the Year

by Wiley Price and Maurice Meredith – View

more photos online at www.stlamerican.com

Photos

Valerie Patton and Rosalind Reese

Top 25 awardee Darlene Davis with St.Louis Development’s Rodney Crim

The Salvation Army’s Major Lonneal Richardson

Top 25 awardees Laurna Godwin and Sam Hutchinson

Pamela Wall-Dover receives the 2012 Corporate Executive of the Year award from the RBC’s Kathy Osborn.

Tim Slater receives the 2012 Entrepreneur of the Year award from World Wide Technology’s Ann Marr.

Top 25 awardee Dr.Don Cook and Ida Woolfolk Larry Thomas

A crowd of more than 500 enjoyed the event at the Ritz-Carlton,St.Louis.

County Executive Charlie Dooley

Top 25 awardee Joe Wiley

Top 25 awardee William C.Harris along with team members from William C.Harris Funeral Directors

First-time Top 25 awardee Nate Johnson of Real Estate Solutions

Barbara Washington receives the Non-Profit Executive of the Year award from Urban League chair Debra Denham.

25

Brian Murphy of BAM

Contracting with Michelle Sherod

2012 Excellence in Business Performance awardees Chris Tabourne,Wendy Richardson,Darron Lowe and Patricia Coleman

Awardee Pamela Wall-Dover (center) with Lisa McIntosh,Janet Hudson,Lisa Smith,and Rulesha Payne

Top 25 awardee Kayla L.Dennis

Awardee Wendy Richardson with Christopher Richardson,Wanda Ferguson and Rev.Orlando Ferguson

Entrepreneur of the Year Tim Slater with parents Aaron and Janet Slater and wife Sheila Slater

Dr.Henry Givens,Jr.

Patrick Quinn and R.J.Crunk with awardee Chris Tabourne

Top 25 awardee Sharilyn Franklin

Awardee Patricia Coleman with Harold Coleman, Bryanna Williams and Doris Harris

Michael McMillan

RCGA president and CEO Joe Reagan and vice president Valerie Patton present the 2012 Corporate Diversity award to Nestle Purina PetCare’s Annette Morris and Steve Degnan.

Awardee Darron Lowe with his wife Mary

Top 25 awardee Nicole Adewale and Darcella Craven

Martin Mathews

Top 25 awardee Wilbur “Gus” Stuart

Mike Jones

Emcee Carol Daniel and Enterprise’s Alonzo Byrd

William Fronczak won an iPad, presented by Salute volunteer Sheaila Washington

Carol Voss and Joan Quicksilver

Tips for smart holiday shopping

Shop after 6:00 p.m. the evening before a sale is advertised to begin. Many retailers program the registers the night before, so the sale may already come up in the register even if they have not changed out signs on the selling floor yet. Ask the associate in advance for any possible upcoming sales, especially on big ticket items.

1. Prepare a list to use while you are shopping. Make sure to include alternative selections in case you are unable to find some of the items on your list.

2. Avoid crowds by shopping during stores’ early and late extended hours.

3. If you are looking for specific advertised items, take the complete ad with you so that you don’t end up in the wrong store looking for a specific price.

4. Staple a gift receipt to the merchandise tag in case it needs to be returned or exchanged. Keep your original receipts with any warranty paperwork for the life of the warranty.

5. Remember when gift shopping you are buying for someone else’s wants and needs, not your own. But don’t be afraid to take full advantage

holiday promotions treat yourself to something nice!

6. Shop safely! Watch your personal belongings at all times including handbags and purchases. The stores are not responsible for any lost items so be careful, especially at the register when you can get easily distracted by the transaction itself.

7. Save yourself the headache: let the charity group at the mall wrap your gifts for you. This will save you a lot of time and free you up to do other things on your holiday to-do lists.

8. When walking through the mall or down Main Street, wear comfortable shoes! You’ll be walking on a lot of marble, concrete and tile.

Be creative while reducing waste!

9. Be vigilant. Make sure to stash your cash in a safe place within a wallet while shopping. When paying with cash at the register, only pull out of your wallet what the amount totals, not the entire stash. This also applies to personal items you carry through the stores, including shopping bags and purses.

Schnucks gift cards, more than just a stocking stuffer

Each year it seems we each get a gift card, or two, or more. Sometimes we use them. Sometimes we don’t. Take a look on your dresser, or in your purse. Do you still have an unused gift card you received during the holidays last year? Well, one gift card that each of us can put to use immediately is a Schnucks gift card. While Schnucks gift make a nice stocking stuffer, they also make for an easy, yet ideal quick gift for a co-worker, client, employee, neighbor, friend, family member, or even your favorite waiter or waitress. The cards can be used on such things as fresh food, fresh flowers, gift baskets. You name it. And, they come in any denomination of your choice, and can be redeemed at any Schnucks location.

• Use scarves, handkerchiefs or bandannas- two gifts in one!

• Have a geography lover? Use an old map or travel poster.

• What grandparent doesn’t love kid’s art? Tape all those coloring pages together and design a custom gift-wrap.

• Scraps as wrapping! Wallpaper, fabric, magazines, sheet music all make clever gift-wrap.

• Comics and newsprint are fun, and can go right into the recycle bin after un-wrapping.

Visit a newsstand and buy a foreign paper for the person traveling or studying a new language.

• Save brown Kraft paper shopping bags and turn them into gift-wrap. Sponged or printed with color, these bags turn into beautiful and natural looking wrap.

• Rather than wrap the large presents, make it a scavenger hunt, with a series of clues to find the gift.

• Give a present wrapped or decorated with a present.

• Mittens in the matching scarf

Mailing gifts?

Try these packing alternatives...

• Dry, popped popcorn

• Crumpled ads from the newspaper

• Biodegradable starch packing peanuts

• Reuse packing peanuts from previous gifts

Recycle packing peanuts at E-Z Mailing Centers, PakMail Stores and UPS.

• Dish towels for kitchen gifts

• A tie or scarf as a ribbon

• Hair bows, shoe laces, or a jump rope to tie up a package

If you buy gift-wrap, try to purchase recycled content and plan ahead for recycling! Have a bag set aside just for recyclable wrapping paper and boxes. Save bows and ribbons and tissue for re-use or to use in craft projects. If every family reused just two feet of holiday ribbon, the 38,000 miles of ribbon saved could tie a bow around the entire planet.

Dierker’s ‘issue’ with McKee goes before Supreme Court

Judge Robert H. Dierker Jr. was on the November 6 ballot in the city for retention on the circuit bench, and he won by more than 50,000 votes with 73 percent of the citywide vote. The American did not urge voters to retain nor reject Judge Dierker, though when the EYE was approached for advice as an individual, the curious voter was urged to retain Judge Dierker (selfishly) for the EYE’s job satisfaction. This column often contemplates legal matters, and there’s not much more fun than reporting on a screwy Dierker ruling. It might not always be justice, narrowly construed, but it’s never boring.

There is no better case in point than Dierker’s July 2010 ruling on Paul McKee Jr.’s Northside redevelopment agreement with the City of St. Louis. Dierker rejected all the pleadings against Northside cited by the original plaintiffs and by interveners that later joined the suit. So case closed in favor of McKee? No. In his ruling Dierker introduced his own objection to McKee’s redevelopment agreement with the city – namely, that it allegedly did not specify any single “shovel-ready” project – and used his objection as the basis to side with the plaintiffs and void McKee’s redevelopment agreement. In so doing, Dierker froze the $390 million in TIF incentives McKee says he needs to get started on the infrastructural improvements that his redevelopment area sorely needs; 80 percent of the TIF funds must go toward infrastructural improvements, per agreement.

Dierker does not hide his judicial activism, but rather he narrates it as he goes along, taking full credit for it, admitting he is ruling based on “an issue detected

by the Court” rather than one introduced in the pleadings he was adjudicating. Though the judge in essence became another intervener trying to help out the plaintiffs with what he considers to be better pleadings, and then ruling on the basis of his own newly introduced “issue,” Dierker’s ruling does not necessarily read as if he is opposed to McKee’s project per se. Indeed, Dierker all but drafts what he considers to be the language missing from Northside’s redevelopment agreement. Dierker basically turns himself into one-stop shopping in this proceeding. The judge himself introduces what he considers the best argument against McKee, bases his ruling on that “issue,” and then writes into his opinion the missing bits of a redevelopment agreement – let’s get to work, say, on those “sanitary sewers” on “City Block 1000” – that his court would let pass, should the matter come before it again. As further evidence of how personally Dierker seems to be taking his role in this case, in his ruling he actually makes it a point to say he did not “have the pleasure” of personally meeting McKee at trial. If that’s not crazy, it will do until crazy comes along. Paul J. Puricelli, who wrote the legal briefs for McKee, stops just short of saying as much when he summarizes the trial court’s ruling for the Missouri Supreme Court, which will hear McKee’s appeal on November 28. And Dierker isn’t the only courtroom player with dubious antics that Puricelli frets to the higher court about. The interveners are represented by a fascinating three-headed legal team of blacktivist Eric E. Vickers Show-Me Institute type W. Bevis Schock and James W. Schottel Jr. Between them, they have crafted some outrageous language to put before the Missouri Supreme Court. Puricelli prefaces his first response brief by saying the intervener has indulged in “jokes, asides and insults” in

On November 28 the Missouri Supreme Court will consider a very unorthodox ruling Judge Robert H. Dierker Jr. (left) delivered in July 2010 on suits that W. Bevis Schock (right) and three other attorneys filed (on behalf of two sets of plaintiffs) against Paul McKee Jr.’s Northside redevelopment agreement with the City of St. Louis.

their filings to the court, and he has that right.

TIF rants

As asides, the interveners indulge in vague rants about the TIF as an economic development incentive, dismissing TIF projects as “shady schemes in which politicians and developers engage in crony capitalism to shift the risks of development to taxpayers.” That sounds like something one might argue before the legislature or city council before they enact TIFenabling legislation, but it’s not the business of the court in this matter to strike a death blow to TIFs in their essence. So it’s a waste of time, to say the least, to carry on this way in a legal brief regarding this appeal.

The interveners actually acknowledge this, admitting that legislators already have passed the TIF Act into law, with voters’ only recourse now to “throw the bums out” (yes, direct quote from a legal brief to the Missouri Supreme Court). One hears an aggravating grinding of the free market axe, as interveners drop into a footnote the notion that a developer who

receives TIF funding receives “unfair advantage over all his competitors.” And again, we are in a high school debate over tax incentives, not an appeal before the state’s highest court concerning one specific TIF agreement.

Economics ‘on the back of an envelope’

The same is the case with the Washington University economics professor whom interveners called as a witness at trial and whom they quote liberally in their briefs to the Supreme Court. This expert’s “back of an envelope” (as he admitted in court) calculations as to the fiscal validity of the Northside redevelopment might have been useful input to the Board of Aldermen or TIF Commission, but he eliminated himself as an effective witness in the matter at hand when he testified that he didn’t know whether the board or commission observed the proper statutory procedures in green-lighting this project. As the city argues with emphasis in a brief before the court, this professor’s “opinion that the city and board made a ‘huge

mistake’ is beside the point, because at issue here is only whether the city’s decision was fairly debatable or reasonably doubtful,” standards established by case law. Not surprisingly, the City of St. Louis takes exception to a legal precedent that, if upheld, could leave judges all over the state second-guessing tax incentives that city governments have considered and passed. “Taken to its logical end, their approach will unavoidably require Missouri’s courts to secondguess legislative decisions and micromanage TIF-financed redevelopment,” the city argues in a brief signed by three attorneys representing the City of St. Louis, the Board of Aldermen and the TIF Commission.

‘In a quandary’

Puricelli points out an interesting bind that has resulted from Dierker’s judicial activism. Dierker dreamed up a reconstruction of the “sanitary sewers” on “City Block 1000” as the sort of “shovel-ready” project he found missing from the Northside redevelopment agreement, which he ruled rendered the agreement void. But in a plaintiffs’ brief to the Supreme Court, they argue that infrastructural improvements (like those sanitary sewers on City Block 1000) do not qualify as a specific redevelopment project.

“Plaintiffs’ disavowal of even the trial court’s definition leaves the parties and Court in a quandary,” Puricelli writes. Indeed, it does. If the trial judge is going to intervene in a case on behalf of the plaintiffs, they should at least get their story straight.

‘Squealing’ over legal fees

Two things are made clear from the interveners’

briefs. They don’t like TIFs (or thought Dierker doesn’t like TIFs and pandered to his prejudice) and they do like legal fees. One of the interveners’ several insults that Puricelli complained about is slung at McKee over the question of who will pay their legal fees. “Interveners should be allowed to submit a fee application outlining their hours, etc.,” they write, “to be followed by the expected squealing from applicants.” Yeah – they said “squealing.” As for jokes, stop me if you have heard this one. The interveners joke to the court, in an insult intended for McKee: “How does one know a Wall Street investment banker is lying? Because his lips are moving.” Here we have lawyers telling a joke about an investment banker (as an to insult a developer), when the rest of us first heard this joke (30 or 40 years ago) told at the expense of lawyers. Now that’s funny.

But there is nothing funny about the redevelopment – or lack thereof – of 1,500 acres of the near North Side owned by McKee and his companies. As the perceptive young 24th Ward Alderman Scott Ogilvie said recently, “Paul McKee’s problems are our problems,” because North St. Louis’ problems are St. Louis’ problems, and McKee has invested so substantially in this problematic terrain that he is going to be a part of the solution – or a part of the problem. Puricelli expresses very well what is truly at stake in the matter before the court: “The trial court’s decision to create a new definition of ‘project’ without regard to the language and purpose of the TIF Act and detached from the commercial reality of large scale redevelopment is a dangerous, unnecessary and strident attack on municipalities’ longstanding discretion to contract for subsidized redevelopment on terms the municipality believes are best for its citizens.”

ESL caught in the hook-up

The Financial Advisory Authority (FAA) which oversees the finances for the city of East St. Louis is learning how ruthless and relentless ESL officials are in attempting to continue their history of hooking up their cronies with jobs, contracts, etc. in order to maintain the political status quo in East Boogie.

For instance, during one recent meeting, the FAA unanimously rejected a city attempt to give a $10,000 contract to CJE Construction Services to manage the city’s demolition process. One problem, though. The superintendent of this contract would have been George “Little Jack” Edwards, ESL’s former chief of demolition (and a convicted felon) who is most famous for his attempts to extort $150,000 from former Cardinal’s second baseman Ronnie Belliard.

You remember “Little Jack.” He’s the character that claimed that Belliard impregnated his daughter, but agreed not to say anything if Belliard paid him the extortion money. Well, “Little Jack”

never got the money, but he did do the time, pleading guilty to wire fraud on April 23, 2007. And now city officials have the audacity to attempt to pull a fast one on the FAA?

Fortunately, FAA Budget Director Brandon Drake and the other FAA board members were thinking on their feet. Otherwise, ESL officials might have bamboozled the FAA into thinking that this was a legitimate contract.

This speaks volumes, on so many levels, as to why the FAA cannot and should not trust ESL officials. If they’ll try to pull a fast one on something as trivial as a measly $10,000 contract, can they really trust Mayor Alvin Parks or other elected officials to deal honestly with the FAA on other levels? I don’t think so.

Also, during the recent FAA meeting, they approved ESL’s plan to hire an economic manager (at $57,000 per year) as well as economic development specialist (at $42,000 a year).

However, according to Brandon Drake, the FAA will direct the city to hire certified professionals (that means no hook-ups) because “the city is an ailing patient and economic development can’t be the training center where beginners go to learn.”

This is imperative because “The city has failed to

increase revenues through economic development…With a location on the river and with excellent rail and internet access, this is not acceptable,” says Drake.

And who would disagree with such logic, except ESL politicians with a vested interest in, perhaps, a little backdoor action in exchange for hooking up cronies who, otherwise, can’t obtain legitimate contracts.

If ESL is ever to turn the corner, she must do so by utilizing her truest asset and strength, which former ESL Mayor Debra Powell described, during President Clinton’s visit to ESL, as “location, location, location.” Forget cronyism, nepotism and the backroom deals. When ESL leverages and exploits her location, then EVERYONE will benefit; from the politicians to the average citizen because it will bring development, jobs and opportunity to a city which has sorely needed them for decades.

Email: jtingram_1960@ yahoo.com Twitter@ JamesTIngram. If you like my column, then you will love my radio show on WGNU-920am every Sunday from 4-5 pm. Please tune-in and call-in. I love to hear from my St. Louis American readers.

Urban League relocates Metro East Outreach Center

On Friday, November 9, the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis hosted a ribbon cutting for its newly relocated St. Clair County office at 10220 Lincoln Trail, Fairview Heights, Illinois.

“Relocating to this new facility provides greater accessibility to the entire St. Clair County Community with more parking and an expansion of services for our clients,” said James H. Buford, president and C.E.O. of the Urban League. Recently, the Urban League received funding

from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity for Weatherization in the amount of $1 million for two years. This program will weatherize 50 homes per year in East St. Louis. The Urban League will partner with Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC) to identify qualified applicants who have completed training from a prior phase of UWI program. In addition, the League will partner with SWIC to recruit 240 candidates for Weatherization Technician Training in 2013-

2014.

The Urban League currently offers housing counseling, foreclosure prevention, financial literacy, rent and mortgage assistance, utility assistance, computer and work readiness training in its St. Clair County division. The Urban League Metro East Community Outreach Center will operate Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about Urban League programs and services, call (314) 615-3600.

Landers Harris

Landers Harris, 77, departed this life on October 25, 2012 at 4:50 pm in the Sanford Heart Hospital, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, following an extended illness.

Landers was born on July 8, 1935 to Otis and Rosa Lee (Mayo) Harris, in Eads, TN. In 1948, Otis and Rosa Lee migrated to St. Louis with Landers, his sister Lorraine and brothers, Jonathan, Charles and Ed Roy. Landers’ first job was that of a shoe shine boy. When he was 15, after having made countless deliveries for Clay Risinger Jewelry Company, Mr. Risinger made him an apprentice jewler and that marked the beginning of a new way of life for Landers. He was the first black diamond setter jewler in St. Louis (Landers Harris Jewelry). He excelled in that field and continued doing the work that he loved for 40 years in St. Louis before taking the business to Los Angeles (Landers Gold Service) and later to Sioux Falls (Eye Catching Jewelry).

He was also an avid sports fan, following the Minnesota Twins and his hometown St. Louis Cardinals faithfully. He was an absolute walking encyclopedia for all things baseball, which he generously shared with all who would listen. He has a passion for fine jewelry, fine clothing, fine shoes and big Cadillacs. In his youth, he went to church with the family and in later years attended Celebrate Community Church in Sioux Falls and confessed a hope in Christ. Landers is survived by: his daughter, Elinor Nelson of St. Louis; his son, Dorian (Razle) Harris of Sylmar, CA; his son, Kirkland Harris, preceded him in death; three grandchildren,

BITUARIES

Michelle Elkins, Lori While and Angela (Derrick) Jones; seven great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; siblings, Jonathan Harris and Rosemarie Harris, both of St. Louis and Nimbilasha Cushing of South Bend, IN; seven nieces and six nephews and many close friends.

In Loving Memory of our Nana and Papa

Rev. DeWitt H. Graham

October 24, 1922— November 11, 1986

Mrs. Cecelia P. Graham

November 24, 1922— November 11, 2011

You will always be in our hearts.

Janice & Roosevelt Parker, Sandra & Arthur Beverly and the Graham Force (Michael, Nate, Scotty, Sonya, David and Mark)

In Memory of a Loving Mother, Sister and Aunt:

Mary Catherine Graham Holliday

We’ll always keep you in our hearts.

Mike, Scotty, Mark, Janice, Sandra, Nate, Sonya and David

Minister Avon Ruth Hobbs

Avon Ruth was born on September 16, 1941, the second of two children born to Alma and Arthur Willis. Her mother, father and brother, Arthur Jr., preceded her in death.

Avon was educated in the St. Louis Public School system and worked for the St. Louis County Department of Medical Records, where she retired in 1997. She professed a hope in Christ and united with the Leonard Baptist Church in St. Louis. She later united with Mt. Beulah Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Dr. E.G. Shields, Sr. She was wed in holy matrimony to George W. Hobbs, Sr. in 1974. Avon was called into ministry and ordained at West End Mt. Carmel under the leadership of Rev. George White, Jr., where she developed the marriage ministry and counseled many couples. She later united with Shalon Church City of Peace, under the leadership of Dr. Freddy J. Clark, where she was active in the music and preaching ministries. As a gospel minister, singer and banner holder for marriage, Avon founded the Kingdom Marriage Enrichment Ministry. Her mission was to bring married couples into the presence of God. She believed that when we are in His presence, we cannot remain the same. She was an anointed soloist and moved ministering whenever called upon at various churches throughout the city. Avon was loved by many and especially her immediate and extended family. She made her spiritual transition on October 31, 2012 at 3:10 am. As the matriarch of the family, she leaves to cherish her memory: a loving son, Marvin E. Mosby, Jr. (Marlene); a devoted daughter, Angela Starwood; two grandchildren, Marvin Mosby, III and Azuree Starwood. She also leaves a sister, Karen Hill; a sisterin-law, Charlene Willis; two nephews, Arthur III and Lovert Willis; a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, family and friends and her Shalom Church Family.

ESL speech team wins tournament

In its first bid at a speech competition, The Flyers Speech Team of East St. Louis School District 189 took first place as a small/limited entry team at the Egyptian Forensic League speech tournament in Harrisburg, Ill.

“We have a very small team, yet we were able to pull it off,” said Martha Warren, coach of the Flyers Speech Team and Speech Communication/English Language Arts teacher at East St. Louis Senior High School. “Our students worked very hard to win and their efforts paid off.”

More than 450 competitors entered the tournament, with teams that included those from Belleville West, Belleville East, O’Fallon and Granite City. First place winners were Sade Vauters and Brandy Brown in Dramatic Duet Acting. Tyrica Griffin and Paris Patterson (duet), Marcia Jones and Nikyra Cook (duet), Lavar Phiffer, Le’Mont Jones and Aza Walker also placed.

Landers Harris

Avon Ruth Hobbs

James Ingram

Ms. Williams’ 5th Grade Class Pierre Laclede Elem. 5th Grade teacher Felisha Williams works on a STEM project with students Ariell Walker, Partikirchen Wilkins, and Chasity Burrell. The class followed the experiment about “defying gravity,” which was in the Nov. 8 edition of the American.

Teachers, if you are using the St. Louis American’s NIE program and would like to nominate your class for a Classroom Spotlight, please email: kjones@ stlamerican.com

SCIENCE CORNER

Who Wants To Be A Geologist?

geology is the study of the planet Earth. how did it form? how is it changing? geologists are the people who study geology. geologists study rocks, soils, mountains, volcanoes, rivers, oceans, fossils, and solar systems. Their job includes such duties as: exploring for coal, oil, gas, and other materials for energy, creating maps, interpreting aerial (bird’s eye view from the sky) photographs, evaluating water supply for pollution, etc.

There are two main types of geology: physical and historical. Whereas physical geologists study rock, soil, and water samples, historical geologists focus on fossils and other artifacts. geologists must be skilled at math, computers, and even language arts. They perform a lot of research and prepare reports for others

SCIENCE EXPERIMENT

geologists study volcanoes. Volcanoes are openings in the earth’s surface that allow lava and other gases to escape from below the surface. This is called an eruption. Volcano eruptions can be very destructive and can trigger tsunamis, floods, and earthquakes. in this experiment, you will create your own volcano.

Materials Needed:

Baking Soda Paper Towels

Vinegar Container

Process: Pour baking soda to cover the bottom of your container about an inch thick. Next, pour vinegar over the baking soda until you hear a fizzing sound. Watch as the reaction causes the baking soda/vinegar to create

to read. in order to have a career in geology, you must have a bachelor’s degree, although many earn a master’s or doctorate degree. geologists work in environmental consulting companies, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, water management and waste disposal agencies, and land use planning. geologists can also teach in universities to help students prepare for a career in geology.

Students: What is geology? What do geologists do? Why are geologists important?

Want To Learn More? read “Jump into Science: rocks and Minerals,” by Steve Tomecek.

Learning Standards: i can read a nonfiction article to learn more about careers in science.

Build A Volcano!

a volcano, erupting over the side of the container. Finally, use the paper towels to clean up the mess.

How Does It Work: The baking soda is a base and the vinegar is an acid. When these two combine, they form a reaction that breaks apart into water and carbon dioxide.

Want To Learn More?

go to: http://www.weatherwizkids.com/weathervolcano.htm and http://library.thinkquest.org/ C0112681/Eng/Normal/Kids/cause.htm

Learning Standards: i can follow directions to complete an experiment. i can observe the reaction of the experiment and draw conclusions based on the result.

By the Numbers

Use this code to answer a question about geology and the formation of volcanoes and earthquakes.

Code:

Question: The earth is covered with a type of “plate” that covers the outer shell, similar to the way an egg is covered by eggshell. Much like an eggshell, the earth’s outer shell can crack and break into plates. What type of “plates” cover the earth’s surface?

Learning Standards: i can add, subtract, multiply and divide to solve an equation.

Volcanic Eruptions can send ash up to 17 miles above the earth!

FirST AFriCAN AMEriCAN Ph.D. gEoLogiST

Marguerite T. Williams

Marguerite Thomas Williams was born in 1895. She was very curious about the world around her. She read a lot of books and completed experiments. Williams was a hardworking student who took her studies seriously. Ernest Everett Just, biologist, was her mentor.

in 1923, Williams earned a bachelor’s degree in geology (geology is the study of the planet Earth) from howard University. in 1930, she earned her master’s degree from Columbia University. in 1942, Williams earned her doctorate degree in geology from Catholic University. Williams dissertation was a history of erosion in the Anacostia drainage basin, located in Maryland, just outside of Washington, D.C. Marguerite Williams was the first African American to earn a doctorate in geology.

Williams began her teaching career as an assistant professor at Miner Teacher’s College (now part of the University of the District of Columbia) in 1923. She took a brief break to complete her master’s degree. in 1942, she was promoted to professor at Miner’s and taught geography and social sciences. She also taught night courses at howard University. in 1955, she retired.

Want to know more?

read “Swimming Against the Tide: African American girls and Science Education,” by Sandra hanson. Students: Summarize the biography of Marguerite Williams. What is the main idea? how many years did Williams teach? how old was Williams when she received each of her degrees?

Learning Standards: i can read nonfiction text to summarize, find main idea, and key details.

MAP CORNER

good readers make inferences. inferences are “educated guesses” which use clues from the text plus your background knowledge to draw conclusions. Making an inference is “reading between the lines.” For example, if you are reading a story where the character is pacing quickly and slamming doors, you can make an inference that he is angry. The author will not state this fact directly; the reader will infer it using clues in the story (pacing and door slamming) and his background knowledge (people who are angry usually slam doors). in this activity, you will use the newspaper to practice inferences.

The National Association of Black Geologists and Geophysicists (NABGG) was founded in 1981 to further career opportunities for minorities in the field of geosciences. NABGG has given over $300,000 in scholarships over the past 31 years to promising students. It holds an annual conference to allow members to establish professional relationships and exchange ideas. NABGG belongs to the American Geological Institute (AGI) as well as other related organizations.

Today there is an organization to promote geology opportunities for minorities.

what inference can you make when you look at the photograph? Write your inference and the clues you used to create the inference. Next, use the newspaper to read a story. What inference did you make while reading the story? What clues did you use?

Remember: Background knowledge + clues in the text=inferences.

Use the newspaper to find a photograph. Without looking at the caption,

Learning Standard: i can use background knowledge and textual clues to make an inference.

The St. Louis American is proud to partner with Normandy School District, the St. Louis Public School District and the Saint Louis Science Center to provide this classroom tool for STEM education for students in 3rd, 4th and 5th grades, with content based on Missouri Learning Standards.

Map of the Anacostia River Drainage Basin studied by Williams for her geology dissertation.

BUSINESS

New Market Tax Credits spur North County project

$10M in credits jumpstart $106M redevelopment of Northwest Plaza

PEOPLEON THE MOVE

State Senator-Elect Jamilah Nasheed, D-St. Louis, has been elected to serve as Chairman of the Missouri Black Legislative Caucus during the upcoming legislative session. The Missouri Black Legislative Caucus is a bi-partisan group of lawmakers that includes members from both the House and Senate. The Chairman is responsible for leading the caucus in backing legislation designed to advance the priorities of the African American community.

Terrence Rogers has joined Carrollton Bank, a privately held, employeeowned bank, as vice president, residential lending. Rogers comes to Carrollton Bank from Regions Bank, where he was vice president. Rogers will be based at Carrollton Bank’s St. Louis Hills location, and his role will include leading the bank’s FHAhome loan program. His career has also included more than a decade

American staff

The first pieces of the old Sears Automotive building at Northwest Plaza are coming down. This is the initial step in one of the biggest redevelopment projects North St. Louis County has seen in decades. It will be known as The Crossings at Northwest.

“We are witnessing the rebirth of North County. This project will have a major impact on the entire area,”

Community Development Corporation.

“Aging malls are one of the biggest challenges for economic developers across the nation right now.”

– Denny Coleman, St.Louis County Economic Council

The development includes an office tower and several opportunities for businesses to create high-density office spaces for call and data centers. Partners Heartland Regional Investment Fund and U.S. Bancorp played pivotal roles

in transitioning the project from the drawing board to the demolition stage. In 2010, Heartland Regional Investment Fund was awarded $32 million in New Markets Tax Credits and has allocated $10 million to Raven Development for The Crossings at Northwest. Heartland is managed by St. Louis County Economic Council. U.S. Bancorp Community Development Corporation, the St. Louis-based community development subsidiary of U.S. Bank, provided New Markets Tax Credit equity, capitalizing the allocation.

New Markets Tax Credits are reserved for projects in the most distressed U.S. Census tracts, the places that need help the most.

See PLAZA, B2

RCGAappoints VPof economic inclusion

Valerie Patton of Business Diversity Initiative accepts senior position

By Chris King Of The St.Louis

Diversity Initiative into its operations. The announcement was greeted with enthusiasm by more than 500 guests, who heartily celebrated excellence in African-American business and the business imperative of diversity. The crowd rose for a half-dozen standing ovations over the course of a long lunch hosted by the St. Louis American Foundation, St.

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Minorities log 23 percent of first million hours on bridge job Crews in Illinois and Missouri working on constructing the Mississippi River Bridge and its associated roadway projects topped the one million hour mark in September. Of those 1,012,576 hours, more than 23 percent (235,930 hours) were performed by minority construction workers, and just over 5 percent (52,443) were performed by female construction workers. The Department of Labor has set goals to encourage at least 14.7 percent of the workforce be minority workers and at least 6.9 percent of the workforce be female. As of September, 113 different certified minority- and women-owned companies have received 229 contracts as part of this project. Those contracts total more than $108 million of the project’s cost of roughly $700 million.

Laclede employees donate record $747K to United Way

This year, Laclede Gas Company topped all previous records donating nearly threequarters of a million dollars ($747,314) to the United Way of Greater St Louis’2012 campaign. Laclede employees also jammed out with “The Heaters,” at the United Way Battle of the Corporate Bands, bringing home a second place trophy while raising funds for those in need.

O’Fallon Park Rec Complex had one-third minority workers

Minority workers made up one-third of the construction workforce on the recently completed $20 million O’Fallon Park Recreation Complex project, an unprecedented achievement for the City of St. Louis.

Kwame Building Group monitored and provided services to increase the number of minority construction workers on the project. Kwame’s own participation as a minority-owned project management firm, however, was not factored into the workforce participation goals, which were focused on construction workers.

See PATTON, B2

Terrence Rogers

Jamilah Nasheed

Jeanetta Hill

County Executive Charlie A.Dooley and other officials pose in front of the old Sears Automotive building just before demolition begins on the old Northwest Plaza shopping center in St.Ann on November 13.

Photo by UPI/Bill Greenblatt

Award, Nestlé Purina PetCare. The Salute to Excellence in Business also recognized

Photo by Maurice Meredith

Joe Reagan,president and CEO of St.Louis RCGA (left),and Valerie Patton, RCGA’s new vice president of economic inclusion (right), gave Steve Degnan and Annette Morris of Nestlé Purina PetCare the 2012 Corporate Diversity Award at the 13th Annual Salute to Excellence in Business Awards & Networking Luncheon.

By Jason Alderman

Like many other economic measures, charitable donations in the U.S. have yet to bounce back to pre-recession levels. According to Giving USA’s Annual Report on Philanthropy, charitable contributions totaled $298.4 billion in 2011 – up 4 percent from 2010, but still 11 percent below 2007 levels.

The vast majority of those contributions (73 percent) came from individuals, demonstrating that even during tough economic times, people still find ways to support organizations that help those less fortunate than themselves.

Because half of all donations typically are made between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, this is a good time

Continued from B1

Corporate Executive of the Year, Non-Profit Executive of the Year Award, Entrepreneur of the Year and others (see story on page 1A). Reagan is relatively new to St. Louis and the RCGA, where he started on February 1, succeeding Dick Fleming, who had led the RCGAsince August 1994. Reagan brought with him from a sense of the value of inclusion, he said. “As a mentor taught me, if you are not intentionally inclusive, you run the risk of being unintentionally exclusive,” Reagan said. Reagan said that when he

‘Tis the season fordonating money

to highlight precautions you can take to ensure your gift has the biggest possible impact, both on the people you want to help and on your own bottom line; also to remind seniors about a tax policy that has changed since last year: Contribution eligibility. If you itemize expenses on your 2012 income taxes, any charitable contributions you plan to deduct must be made by year’s end. That means either charging your credit or debit card or postmarking a check by midnight on December 31, 2012. You must have a receipt to claim deductions for cash or property, no matter how small. Acancelled check or credit card statement is fine for contributions under $250,

arrived in St. Louis from Louisville, where he hadbeen president and CEO of the Greater Louisville Inc.-Metro Chamber of Commerce since 2005, he heard “over and over and over” about the St. Louis Business Diversity Initiative and its Fellows Program.

“We are going to take the Diversity Fellows Program into every corner of the business community and invite our alumni to fully take part in their leadership role.”

– Joe Reagan,RCGA

“The Fellows Program is one of our region’s most important programs,” Reagan said. “Civic Progress, the RBC and the RCGAhave been supportive of it, but now we are going to take it into every corner of the business community and invite our alumni to fully take part in their leadership role in our community.” Carol Daniel of KMOX, who emceed the program, said in her introductory remarks that for diversity and inclusion

PERSONAL FINANCE

but amounts over $250 require a written statement from the charity. See IRS Publication 526 for details (www.irs.gov). Confirm tax-exempt status. For your contribution to be deductible, the organization must be recognized as taxexempt by the IRS. It’s important to note that in recent years the IRS has revoked the tax-exempt status of scores of nonprofit organizations because they didn’t file annual reports for three consecutive years, as required by law. Use the IRS Exempt Organizations Select Check tool to ensure an organization’s eligibility.

Get bang for your buck. Make sure any non-profit to which you donate is well-run. Ideally the organization applies at least 75 percent of contributions to programs that serve its beneficiaries, versus spending on salaries, advertising, fundraising and other administrative expenses.

Study the organization’s website, annual report and mission statement, and ask for a copy of its IRS Form 990, which details how contributions are spent. Speak to staff members or volunteers, or volunteer there yourself. Or, if you know someone who has used its services, ask for their impressions of the organiza-

tion’s efficiency and helpfulness to clients.

Other helpful sites: Charity Navigator’s “Top 10” lists and “Tips and Resources” sections provide helpful evaluation tools (www.charitynavigator.org). And GuideStar offers helpful questions to ask potential recipients and tips for choosing a charity (www.guidestar.org).

No more direct IRAdistributions. Amajor tax break for senior citizens regarding charitable contributions expired at the end of 2011. Formerly, people over age 70 ? could contribute up to $100,000 from their IRAs directly to charity and have it count toward their annual IRA Required Minimum Distribution. This allowed sen-

to succeed, commitment “must start at the top.” Reagan made it clear that RCGAintends that to be the case with its expanded commitment to the St. Louis Business Diversity Initiative and its executive director, Valerie Patton.

“Valerie has joined our top team as vice president of economic inclusion,” Reagan said. Patton said she is “humbled, honored and blessed” by the news. Her role in the Salute program was to help introduce Nestlé Purina PetCare as the

PLAZA

Continued from B1 Projects must meet specific job growth and community improvement goals to qualify.

“Aging malls are one of the biggest challenges for economic developers across the nation right now,” said Denny Coleman, president and CEO of St. Louis County Economic Council.

Northwest Plaza opened in 1963 as an open-air shopping center and was the largest mall in the world. It eventually became an enclosed shopping

At the 13th Annual Salute to Excellence in Business Awards & Networking Luncheon held last Thursday at the Ritz-Carlton, Valerie Patton, executive director of the St.Louis Business Diversity Initiative,was announced as the RCGA’s new vice president of economic inclusion.

winner of the 2012 Corporate Diversity Award, and she stayed within that supporting role. But praising Nestlé Purina PetCare’s commitment to diversity included discussion of the company’s commitment to the St. Louis Business

mall. The mall comprised nearly 1,770,000 square feet, making it the 27th largest mall in the United States, according to the International Council of Shopping Centers, prior to its closure in 2010. The mall featured nine anchor stores and more than 210 stores at its peak.

“In this case, we knew finding a new life for Northwest Plaza was the key to kick starting redevelopment throughout North County,” Coleman said.

The demolition and rebuilding of The Crossings at Northwest will bring hundreds of construction jobs to North County.

iors to avoid having to count the funds as adjusted gross income, thereby reaping a tax advantage even if they didn’t itemize deductions. And finally, if you can’t afford a cash donation but still want to help, consider donating your time. Numerous organizations can match you up with local charities that suit your interests, including the government’s United We Serve site (www.serve.gov), Network for Good (www.networkforgood.org), and Volunteer Match (www.volunteermatch.org).

Jason Alderman directs Visa’s financial education programs. To Follow Jason Alderman on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Practical Money.

Patton

that

with the Diversity

Program five years ago. She said Steve Degnan, Nestlé Purina VPand head of human resources, told her, “We’ll take as many slots in your program as we can get.” Crystal Hardiman, a 15year veteran of the company, went through the Diversity Fellows Program in 2010. She told The American the program “helped me become a better leader and coach.”

In accepting the Corporate Diversity Award, Degnan recalled when Patton first approached him and Patrick McGinnis, CEO of Nestlé Purina PetCare for North and South America. “She got to us,” Degnan said of Patton. “We see her as a visionary. She is a change agent in our city and our organization.” Degnan then addressed Patton directly: “Thank you.”

“Most importantly, it is going to attract new jobs and spark more and more development in the years ahead,” Coleman said. The entire project will reach completion in two to three years; however, retail and office spaces are available immediately.

“As life-long St. Louis residents, we are personally invested in seeing this project succeed,” said Bob Glarner, principal of Raven Development.

For more information, visit www.thecrossingsatnorthwest. com.

Diversity Initiative.

said

Nestlé Purina PetCare connected

Fellows

Photo by Wiley Price

“I’m on cloud nine right now, I finally get to go to state.That’s been the dream.”

– Belleville Althoff lineman Merrick Jackson,after his team defeated Camp Point Central in the IHSA Class 2A state semifinals

gives thanks

~ See ‘Claib’s Call’ page B4 ~

Jets find Gateway to success

St.Louis Rams’Austin Pettis makes a 36-yard reception in front of the New York Jets’Yeremiah Bell during first-quarter action at the Edward Jones Dome on Sunday.Both teams had been struggling to win games as of late.However,the Jets found the Gateway City the answer to their troubles,scoring 27 unanswered points and going on to defeat the Rams 27-13.

PREP FOOTBALL NOTEBOOK

With Earl Austin Jr.

Four local teams left

Francis Howell, Kirkwood, Burroughs, Belleville Althoff fight for titles

metro area that will be playing for state championships. Francis Howell, Kirkwood and John Burroughs will try to end their seasons on a high note as they compete in the Show-Me Bowl this weekend at the Edward Jones Dome. The local teams will also try to stop a two-year drought of state-championships

championship games.

Class 6

Francis Howell vs. Blue Springs, Saturday, 5:30 p.m. –Francis Howell will be making its first ever appearance in the ShowMe Bowl. The Vikings have

leaned on a tremendous defense all season. Howell is led by senior linebacker Calvin Munson and top defensive end Jarrett Franklin. Defensive back Zack Perkins is also an excellent kicker. On offense, the Vikings rely on tailback Donte Harrell, who can pile up the yardage. Blue Springs comes in with a huge offensive line and an explosive tailback in junior Dalvin Warmack, who has rushed for more than 2,000-yards and scored 43 touchdowns. The Wildcats also have a top receiver NOVEMBER 22 – 28, 2012

in junior Darrius Sheppard. The defense is led by stud 6’3” 210pound defense end Elijah Lee, who is a big-play performer.

Class 5

Kirkwood vs. Fort Osage, Friday, 7:30 p.m. – The Pioneers return to the Dome this year after falling short last season against Staley. Kirkwood has an explosive offense, led by senior quarterback Jordan Bishop, who is a

Rams for Fisher; Cards for the Rams

Little beknownst to faithful readers of In the Clutch, this column possesses a magical crystal-like orb which with a single touch grants the impressive power of telepathy. In the interests of national and global security, the mind-reading orb is tucked away in the Rams Red Zone a secret location, nearly impossible for mere mortals to pass through. Its allknowing powers are only summoned during the holidays, when we take a quick glance to see what our favorite sports personalities are most thankful for (Thanksgiving) and get a sneak peek at their holiday wishes (Christmas). So without further ado, put aside that juicy slab of turducken and see why

Ishmael H. Sistrunk

our local sports teams are thankful.

St.Louis Rams

The St. Louis Rams are grateful for the mustached man in charge: Jeff Fisher

Despite last week’s visit from the Ghost of Spags’Past, the Rams are an improved team. They play hard, games are finally competitive and the future looks bright with talented youngsters such as Daryl Richardson, Chris Givens,

Rams Quarterback Sam Bradford is thankful the team has a crummy backup.

Michael Brockers and Janoris Jenkins showing all the signs of developing into quality NFLplayers. Though the team is not consistently playing up to its potential, it’s clear the franchise is headed in the right direction. Quarterback Sam Bradford is thankful the team has a crummy backup. His play has been erratic at best. Some of

INSIDE SPORTS

Classic is back

The St. Louis Gateway Classic football game is coming back. After a one-year hiatus, the annual black college football extravaganza is returning to St. Louis next season. And it is a very special one, indeed.

Perennial black college football powerhouse Tennessee State University will take on Central State University (OH) on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2013 at the Edward Jones Dome. It will mark the 20th anniversary of the Gateway Classic football game, which was started by the late Earl Wilson,

Having these two teams in the Gateway Classic also rekindles an old rivalry which dates back to the late 1950s and early 1960s.

The Cards have been to three World Series since 2004,winning two of them.The team has also made the playoffs in nine of the past 13 seasons.Above,the Cardinals celebrate after winning the 2011 World Series.

Photo by UPI/Bill Greenblatt

Earl Austin Jr.

With Earl Austin Jr.

It has been somewhat of an odd year since last Thanksgiving as the world of sport continues to change on a daily basis. With that said I still have a lot to be thankful for.

I am thankful that the Cardinals did not over commit when it came to free agency last season. Yes, they could have given a mindboggling contract to one person and three years later we would all be crying because the team would be restricted financially. The person they took a pass on had a chance to watch the Cardinals on his big screen TVwhen the playoffs rolled around.

CLAIB’S CALL

With Mike Claiborne

Claibs gives thanks

because of the man. For him to suggest that both sides take two weeks off before returning to the bargaining table is criminal.

I am thankful that Notre Dame and Alabama are ranked 1 and 2. If there is a God He will let them play in the national championship game whereas His favorite team will roll all over the Irish. No, I have not forgotten Ty Willingham and the other sins they have committed over the years.

Mike Claiborne

I am thankful that the Rams’season is more than half over. It has been a grind for sure as relocation talk, leases, lack of talent and growing pains have beset the team. I am convinced that Jeff Fisher and his staff will turn things in the right direction. Yes, this will take time but they are better now than they were this time last year.

Success follows people like David Steward, so let’s hope his winning run will spill over into his new venture.Yes, I am a Blues fan again.

I am thankful that I do not work in the National Hockey League. Not because I don’t like hockey. I am thankful that I do not have my livelihood in the hands of such a person as Commissioner Gary Bettman, who is in the middle of another labor issue where there is no hockey. There are a lot of good people who are going with less or in some cases without

I am thankful for the likes of Renee Knot, Maurice Drummond, Wiley Price Jr. and Earl Austin Jr. There are not three better people in this city who do what they do. No shenanigans, no front-page frauds. They just represent for all the right reasons. I am thankful that Mizzou is in the SEC. Sure, they got a lesson on how big-time college football works and they will be better for it in the future. Howard Richards has evolved into one of the more elegant color analysts in college football. Being a Tiger fan will be all good for a while. As for basketball, I did not know much about Frank Haith this time last year, but man do we know something now. He put Mizzou back on the map, and by all accounts with the talent alone they should be much better and deeper. See you after the first round of the tournament this season.

Did I mention how thankful I am that Mike Brown is no longer the coach of my Lakers? I am told that Brown is a nice guy and deserved better.It would have been better if he were coaching the L.A.Clippers.

Did I mention how thankful I am that Mike Brown is no longer the coach of my Lakers? I am told that Brown

is a nice guy and deserved better. It would have been better if he were coaching the L.A. Clippers. I would be even more gleeful if Jerry Buss’son Jim would find another team to attempt to ruin.

I will wait a little longer on new coach Mike D’Antoni to get the Lakers to the promised land. At least he knows offense.

I’m thankful that some are

exposing the NFLand its leadership for what they are. From the concussion cover-up to the botched bounty gate, the NFL has problems. No matter how much money they rake in, it’s not enough for the pain and suffering many have gone through and will continue to go through because of greed.

Being thankful for good sound ownership in the Cardinals is a given. I hope

that the new local ownership of the St. Louis Blues will have the same results some day. The local ownership group features the first African American as a investor in St. Louis sports. Success follows people like David Steward, so let’s hope his winning run will spill over into his new venture. Yes, I am a Blues fan again.

I am truly thankful for family and friends. Family that has supported me and my endeavors, friends who could make me laugh and give encouragement. Friends who I have watched grow and become successful from childhood to today. It’s fun to see people grow and make a contribution to society and mankind.

I am thankful for all of those first responders. Wearing that blue uniform comes with great challenges and responsibility. Most handle it with class and pride.

Yes, I am thankful for the Likes of Dirty Muggs, St. Louis’premiere band, The 13 Black Katz, Omega Psi Phi my community and my home that it is St. Louis. I am thankful for you, the readers of this column. Now if they would only let me write about politics ... I would give greater thanks.

Enjoy Thanksgiving for what it really means, not looking forward to Friday’s sales.

Kingsley Bryce leads SLU to NCAA Tournament

Saint Louis University soccer standout Kingsley Bryce was voted the Most Valuable Player of the Atlantic 10 Conference Tournament after leading the Billikens to the championship and the league’s automatic berth to the NCAATournament.The sophomore from Plano,TX scored three game-winning goals as the Billikens defeated Charlotte,Xavier and VCU to capture the A-10 championship.

INSIDE

Continued from B3

On the Ball

Former Wentzville Holt star running back Montee Ball has entered the NCAArecord books once again as the career leader in touchdowns for Division I football. Asenior at the University of Wisconsin, Ball scored his 78th career touchdown in the second quarter of the Badgers 21-14 overtime loss to Ohio State to tie the NCAADivision I career mark, which is also held by Travis Prentice (Miami of Ohio, ‘96-99). Ball finished the game with 191 yards on a career-high 39 carries.

Markel Smith commits

Vianney High junior football standout Markel Smith recently gave a verbal commit-

PREP

Continued from B3

true dual-threat performer. There are plenty of weapons on offense, including senior tailback Ramon Alton and receivers Andre Harris and Antonio Weston. Senior linebacker Jarrod Bishop leads a fast and very stingy defense. Fort Osage last played in the championship game in 2009 when they were defeated by Webster Groves. Fort Osage is on a roll after defeating defending state-champion Staley in the quarterfinals and Ozark in the semifinals.

Class 3 John Burroughs vs. Maryville, Friday, 1 p.m. – A true championship battle between undefeated heavyweights on opposite sides of the state. John Burroughs is in the championship game for the

ment to the University of Missouri. The 5’11” 205pound Smith completed his junior season as the leading rusher in the St. Louis metro area. Smith rushed for 2,250 yards and scored 30 touchdowns for the Golden Griffins. He averaged 8.8 yards per carry. He was also the Metro Catholic Conference’s Offensive Player of the Year this season. Astarter since his freshman year, Smith has rushed for 4,728 yards and has scored 55 touchdowns in his career.

Joe Williams in Waco

Former Riverview Gardens standout Joe Williams was a major player in Baylor’s 52-24 upset over No. 1 Kansas State last weekend in Waco. Ajunior cornerback for the Bears, Williams had 10 tackles and two interceptions to lead an inspired Baylor defensive effort against the Wildcats. For

third consecutive year after two heartbreaking defeats. The Bombers are led by star senior tailback Ezekiel Elliott, who has scored 47 touchdowns. Elliott rushed for 233 yards and three touchdowns in the Bombers’28-6 victory over Monett in the state semifinals. Burroughs also has a stout defense, led by seniors Christian Bledsoe, Xavier Bledsoe and Foye Oloukon. Maryville is currently averaging 49 points a game while giving up only eight. The Spoofhounds are led by senior quarterback Johnathan Baker, who has thrown for more than 2,000 yards and 33 touchdowns.

IHSAClass 2A Belleville Althoff vs. Mercer County, Friday, 1 p.m.

– Althoff is making its first appearance in the state championship game since 1990, when the Crusaders won back to back Class 3Astate titles.

CLUTCH

Continued from B3

the issues can be attributed to subpar line play or inconsistencies with the wide receivers, but at some point the QB has to make plays in spite of it all. Fisher has been a strong supporter of Bradford and that’s part of the reason he chose St. Louis over other teams who pursued him in the offseason. But if Bradford can, who has shown signs of‘Bulgeritis,’ can’t get it together soon, the Rams brass might be compelled to use one of those RG3 picks to select Sam’s successo.

St.Louis Cardinals

The Redbirds are thankful for the Rams. The team’s terrible stretch since 2005 has made St. Louis rally around the Cardinals even more. While the Rams haven’t made the playoffs since the 2004 team snuck in with an 8-8 record, the Cards have been to three World Series since 2004, winning two of them. The team has also made the playoffs in nine of the past 13 seasons. The franchise boasts one of the premier ballclubs in Major League Baseball, making it much easier to swallow the epic choke job they suffered at the hands of the San Francisco Giants this season. Mike Matheny’s Cardinals will be back.

Mizzou Tigers

Football: Coach Gary Pinkel and his staff are thankful the football season is almost over. The Tigers’inaugural season into the SEC has been an unmitigated disaster. The QB play has been dismal, regardless of who has lined up under center. Coaching adjustments (or the lack thereof) have been even worse. While Texas A&M has made a seam-

less transition into the SEC, the Tigers have flopped and floundered big time with college football’s big fish. Marty Mauk has got to be thankful Pinkel didn’t burn his redshirt despite the dismal season. Let’s hope he’s worthy of the praise he received coming out of high school and gets a fair shot to earn a starting spot in the spring.

Basketball: Like the Cardinals, Frank Haith and his Tigers team is secretly happy the football team stunk up into intro into the SEC.

That means the sour note of losing its first game in last season’s NCAAtournament has been pushed far to the back of people’s minds. Haith also has to be thankful for his wonderful gift of gab, that allowed him to convince so many talented-but-unhappy recruits to

relocate to Columbia. Alex Oriakhi, Earnest Ross, Jabari Brown and Keion Bell are all expected to play major roles for the Tigers this season after transferring from other schools. Laurence Bowers is also back from injury and Flip Pressey is still here running the show. This means the Tigers shouldn’t have to wait for freshmen to develop and contribute to the team. The team is reloaded and ready for another strong season.

St.Louis Blues

Sorry, but even our magical orb can’t predict when the season will resume. Clearly players and owners have lost their minds by having work stoppages seemingly every other season, rendering our mindreading abilities useless.

Bishop completed 11 of 16 passes for 123 yards and three touchdowns and rushed for 57 yards and another score to lead the Pioneers to a 42-7 victory. Atwo-year starter, Bishop was the Suburban South Conference Offensive Player of the Year after leading the Pioneers to an undefeated season heading into the state finals. For the season, Bishop has thrown for 1,826 yards and 26 touchdowns while rushing for 554 yards. Kirkwood will face Fort Osage for the Class 5 state championship on Friday night at the Edward Jones

his efforts, Baylor received a helmet sticker on ESPN’s Game Day Final post-game show later that night. The show’s hosts, Reese Davis, Mark May and Lou Holtz give out those helmet stickers at the end of each show to salute the top individual performances during the day of college football.

High school hoops are back

High school basketball begins this week with Thanksgiving tournaments taking place at St. Francis Borgia and Alton (Ill.). The Borgia Thanksgiving Tournament features a strong field, including McCluer North, Cardinal Ritter, St. Louis Christian, Borgia, Washington and Pacific. The tournament begins on Wednesday. The semifinals will be held on Friday with the championship game set for Saturday at 7:30 p.m.

The Crusaders are dangerous on both sides of the ball. On defense, they are led by massive defensive tackle Merrick Jackson and top linebacker Eric Furmanek. On offense, senior quarterback Eric Mertens leads a potent crew that also includes Dennis Jackson, Garland Henry and Nick Hawthorne. Mercer County enters the championship game with a perfect 130 record.

Here is the rest of the Show-Me Bowl weekend schedule:

Class 1: Ste. Genevieve Valle vs. Hamilton Penny, Friday, 4:15 p.m.

Class 2: Lamar vs. Blair Oaks, Saturday, 2:15 p.m.

Class 4: Webb City vs. Jefferson City Helias, Saturday, 11 a.m.

Diversifying casino contractors

Pinnacle convenes 3rd annual MBE and WBE Vendor Fair at Lumière Place

By Bridjes O’Neil

Of The St.Louis American

“This is a wonderful and important event we hope to grow,” Neil Walkoff, executive vice president of Regional Operations for Pinnacle Entertainment, said of the 3rd annual Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Womanowned Business Enterprise (WBE) Vendor Fair.

Lumière Place and River City Casino sponsored the fair that featured roughly 80 local and out-of-state business vendors on November 14 at the Hotel Lumière Atrium.

Vendors networked with Lumière Place and River City Casino executives, local businesses, purchasing and supplier agents, showcasing a multitude of products and services. These products and services ranged from promotions and entertainment to landscaping and construction.

Howard Hayes of the St Louis Development Corporation, Teresa Stark of Lady Luck Casino, Steve Brueggeman of Ameristar Casino St. Louis and Jessica O’Neil of Hollywood Casino St. Louis (formerly Harrah’s Casino) were among diversity purchasing and supplier representatives at the fair.

Other companies and institutions represented included Ameren, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, and Monsanto. Josh McLeod, buyer at Lumière Place and River City Casino, said it was a chance for procurement teams to meet some of the best MBE and WBE suppliers.

“Last year’s event was a great success resulting in nearly $1 million in new business with diverse companies,” McLeod said.

“We know how important it is to ensure that we’re inclu-

sive regarding businesses who want to sell their goods and services to us,” Walkoff of Pinnacle said. Walkoff oversees business operations for Lumière Place and River City Casinos, Belterra Casino in Indiana, and River Downs Casino in Ohio, which are subsidiaries of Pinnacle Entertainment. Rena Collins is president and managing director of

Rena’s Final Cleaning & Construction, a St. Louis-based company. The company specializes in carpet and floor cleaning, office green cleaning and maintenance, decontamination for removal of illness in the workplace and other services. At the fair, Collins promoted the company’s line of cleaning supplies.

Rena’s Final Cleaning & Construction is MBE/ WBE

and Section 3- and EPA-certified. In April, the company became an affiliate associate contractor with at 84 Lumber. She offered encouraging words to other minority women considering or trying to start their own business.

“Stop at nothing,” Collins said. “Find a passion, believe in it and go for it.”

Cesar Dovalina of Chicago, Ill. is founder and president of

Cristina Foods, Inc., a wholesale foodservice distributor.

“We felt that this was a good opportunity to get our name out there in a different marketplace,” Dovalina said.

“We hope to establish a few new relationships, whether it’d be on the supply side or consumer side.”

In 1990, Cristina Foods was certified as a Hispanic-owned minority business enterprise

with the City of Chicago. Janet Brown of Louisville, Ky. said it was her first time attending the vendor fair in St. Louis. As owner of ImagePRO Promotional Marketing, which deals with corporate branding, she knows that “effective promotional products increases sales and brand loyalty.” It was this sound advice that circled around the ImagePRO logo on a casino chip she creatively used as a business card to solicit new business at the fair.

“Everybody needs to get their name out there,” she said. “Anyone who starts a business and are passionate about what they do want to communicate that.”

Erica Williams was another fair attendee. Williams is an enterprising and successful African-American woman who began her career as a runner in the music industry over 20 years ago. Now, she’s president and CEO of her own entertainment and special events company E2 or “E squared” Entertainment, with two offices in New York and her home state of Indiana.

“If you need a celebrity endorsement for your product, a host or moderator for your event – because many times people will come if the right person is there – I can you help you with that,” Williams said.

One of her clients is jazz artist Rob White whom she helped land a deal with Orpheus Enterprises.

“It’s all relationship-driven, regardless of what industry you’re in,” Williams said. “You never know who you’re gonna meet at these events.”

For more information on MBE/WBE vendors, visit www.oeo.mo.gov

Josh McLeod,buyer at Lumière Place and River City Casino,is applauded for coordinating the 3rd annual 2012

MBE/WBE Vendor Fair on Nov.14 at the Hotel Lumiere Atrium.

Photo by Noah Besheer

Golden touch

Studio Museum in Harlem curator discusses art and power at The Contemporary

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

“Ultimately what I’m doing is thinking out loud,” Thelma Golden, director and chief curator of the world-renowned Studio Museum in Harlem, introduced her 90-minute talk to a near-capacity crowd at The Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis last Wednesday.

She discussed her career, the history of the iconic arts organization she is charged with leading, and the past, present and future of art as it relates to the black experience.

“My first year of working at the Lincoln Museum of American Art, I had the occasion of being introduced to someone who is now a very famous wellknown African-American actor,” Golden said. “At the time he wasn’t well known, and neither was I. A seminal writer introduced us, and when he introduced us he introduced me as a curator. This thenunknown actor said, ‘What the heck is that?’ – that’s not how he said it; he said it in a much more colorful way. And it

See ART, C4

Super soul Saturday

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

“Can’t you hear them singing now?” Café Soul co-founder Nichol Stevenson said. “‘All This Love’ … is waiting for you.”

The title of the DeBarge “Quiet Storm” classic alone automatically prompts 1980s babies to burst into song.

The melody might even inspire a jaunt down memory lane for those of with more than two siblings (and a cousin or two within walking distance) who created their own group in the likeness of the biggest family pop culture phenomenon next to the Jackson Dynasty.

On Saturday Café Soul will be celebrating their sixth anniversary in a special way –please pardon the accidental DeBarge song title insertions.

Chico DeBarge, the baby of the family, will be headlining their year six celebration at the Coliseum.

Not officially a member of the Band, Chico is a star in his own right thanks to urban radio hits “Iggin Me,” “Love Still Good” and “No Guarantee,” which were among the early hits of the Neo Soul era of the late 1990s.

He was able to carve out his own niche in the industry despite having two sets of siblings with major presence in urban music that preceded him two generations before via DeBarge and the 1970s soul group Switch (which was led by his late older brother Bobby).

See SOUL, C5

When white isn’t

An interracial dating dilemma

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

“I have a problem. I need your advice. I’m dating a white woman.”

A layover in Dallas meant the glorious catch up game with one of my dearest friends. His love woes tend to take center stage in our conversation topics. And even though we hadn’t seen each other in half a decade, he went right in for it.

“Well, I don’t know anything about dating white women, but feel free to bounce your issue off on me.”

He goes on to explain that him dating the white woman is the problem.

“Let me get this straight: you’re dating this white woman and you’re not okay with her being white,” I ask while trying with all of my might not to sound condescending or patronizing.

“We worked together and she was just so cool, and before I knew it we were hanging outside of work … and things just went from there,” he says. “We have a lot of the same interests, professional goals and our conversation is amazing.”

“Okay. And you’re attracted to her?”

“Yes, but I just … I feel like there are just so many things that I know I’m not necessarily ready to sign up for.” Here comes the sea of emotions that I’m not ready to sign up for.

“I was raised by black women, I love black women. I feel like I’m betraying the source of my sustainment,” he says. “You mean to tell me that you are 100 percent okay with me sitting here telling you that I’m seeing a white woman?”

“Would I rather you be dating a black woman. Yes,” I say. “But am I okay with you dating a white woman? Hey, do you.”

For me, the issue comes in when the black woman is edged out by a black man in the deciding factor

By Elizabeth Harris Krasnoff For The Beacon

Joseph Hendricks proves that the old adage about Carnegie Hall applies to Powell Hall as well: The best way to get there is to practice. The 20-year-old bassoonist from East St. Louis took up the instrument in his sophomore year of high school.

At the time, he and his close friend De’Shaun King both played saxophone in the band. But King wanted to play other instruments as well.

“De’Shaun became interested in the oboe,” Hendricks recalled.

The band teacher told King that he could play oboe if he could convince someone to play the bassoon.

Thelma Golden, director and chief curator for the world-renowned Studio Museum in Harlem, spoke last Wednesday to a near-capacity crowd at The Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis. Photo by Wiley Price

Chico DeBarge, the baby of the family, will be headlining Café Soul’s year six celebration at the Coliseum on Saturday.

How to place a calendar listing

1.Email your listing to calendar@stlamerican.com OR 2.Visit the calendar section on stlamerican.com and place your listing

Calendar listings are free of charge, are edited for space and run on a space-available basis.

holiday haps

Nov 23 – 24, 2 p.m.,

Florissant Civic Center

Theatre presents AChristmas Carol. This interpretation of the classic story features witty dialogue and fresh new songs whenScrooge is visited by the Ghosts of Christmases Past, Present and Yet-to-Come. These ghostly visitors cause Scrooge to reconsider his outlook on life, warming his cold heart. 1 James Eagan Dr., 63033. For more information, call (314) 921-5678.

Thurs., Nov. 22, 8:45 p.m.,

Ameren presents Missouri Thanksgiving Day Parade

The Midwest’s best holiday parade features colorful floats, storybook characters, carriages, and Santa Claus as it winds through downtown St. Louis to kick off the holiday season. N. 4th St. & Washington Ave., 63102. For more information, visit www.christmasinstlouis.org

Fri., Nov. 23, 12 p.m., National Park Services pres-

ents Historic Holiday KickOff. 12:00 p.m. concert from the St. Louis Brass Quintet followed by a 1:00 p.m. concert from The Caroling Party. Come and see beautifully decorated rotunda, adorned with authentic Victorian decorations. Historic Old Courthouse, 11 N. Fourth St., 63102. For more information, call (314) 368-8852 or visit www.nps.gov/jeff.

Nov. 23 – 25, The America’s Center hosts Holiday Magic. Celebrate the holidays at this family-friendly weekend show offering full-scale carnival rides, trackless train rides, and a vendor district full of exhibitors and gift ideas. 701 Convention Plaza, 63101. For more information, visit www.stlholidaymagic.com.

Nov. 24 – Nov. 25, Pack Flag Football League presents Thanksgiving 9-Man Flag Football Tournament, Tandy Recreational Center, 4206 Kennerly Ave, St. Louis, MO. 63113Contact Tony Evans at 314-503-0283, Bart Bond at 314-565-5448 or Lamont King

CALENDAR

at 314-333-2415 for more information.

Sun., Nov. 25, 2 p.m., Ferguson Northern Lights Celebration: Christmas at the Movies. Holiday market has unique gifts, tasty foods and lots of activities - trackless train rides, Mrs. Claus, Ice Sculpture Demonstration, Carolers, Petting Zoo and crafts. Homemade Fudge Contest. Lighted Holiday Parade at 5pm and then free cookies and cocoa at the market. Victorian Plaza, 1100 S. Florissant Rd., 63135. For more information, call (314) 324-4298.

Tues., Nov. 27, 6 p.m., TouchPoint Autism Services hosts Annual Milk and Cookies with Santa. For families with children on the autism spectrum and their siblings. Children will meet and interact with support dogs, listen to music from a local a cappella group, and feast on plenty of holiday cookies. Children will also enjoy a balloon artist, magician, face painting and other sensoryfriendly activities. Sheraton Westport Lakeside Chalet, 191 Westport Plaza, 63146. For more information, call (314) 878-1500.

Wed., Nov. 28, 5:30 p.m.,

LifeSkills presents 29th Annual Festival of Trees. To benefit children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders. This annual event features a champagne reception, unique silent and live

13 Black Katz presents Red Carpet Affair with special guest Eric Roberson. See CONCERTS for details.

auction, dinner and dancing. Sheraton Westport Lakeside Chalet, 191 Westport Plaza, 63146. For more information, call (314) 394-7018.

Nov. 28 – Dec. 19, 12 p.m., Historic Holiday Noon Concert Series. Join us on Wednesdays for traditional holiday music in the rotunda of the Old Courthouse, which will be beautifully adorned with authentic Victorian decorations. You may bring your lunch to the concert. 11 N. Fourth St., 63102. For more information call (314) 6551614 or visit ww.nps.gov/jeff.

concerts

Nov. 23 – 24, Jazz St. Louis presents Jeremy Davenport Jazz at the Bistro, 3536 Washington Ave., 63103. For more information, call314289-4030 or visit www.jazzstl.org.

Sat., Nov. 24, 7:30 p.m., Café Soul 6th Anniversary Celebration feat. Chico DeBarge. The Coliseum Music Lounge, 2619 Washington Ave., 63103. For more information, call (314) 599-0958.

Sat., Nov. 24, 8 p.m., 13 Black Katz presents Red Carpet Affair with special guest Eric Roberson Millennium Hotel, 200 S. 4th 63102. For more information, call (314) 241-9508.

Sat., Dec. 1, 8 p.m., Sheldon

Concert Hall presents Marcus Roberts Trio. 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, call (314) 533-9900 or visit www.metrotix.com.

Sun., Dec. 9, 7:30 p.m., The Fox Theater presents Trey Songz feat. Miguel, Elle Varner, and more. 527 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, call (314) 5341678 or visit www.metrotix.com

Wed., Dec. 12, 9 p.m., Blueberry Hill presents Chuck Berry. 6504 Delmar Blvd., 63101. For more information, call 9314) 727-4444. Sat., Dec. 15, 8 p.m. & 10 p.m., Sweetie Pie’s Upper Crust presents Bobby Rush The Grand Center, 3643 Delmar, 63108.

local gigs

Fri., Nov. 23, 9 p.m., Helen Fitzgerald’s Irish Pub presents Dirty Muggs. 3650 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 63127. For more information, call (314) 984-0026.

Sat., Nov. 24, 9 p.m., Sybergs hosts Dirty Muggs House Party. 17392 Chesterfield Airport Rd., 63006. For more information, call (636) 5327600.

special events

Wed., Nov. 21, 9 p.m., Drew Digital presents Glow 5: White on! Get dressed from head to tow in brilliant white as it glows under intense Uv light. The Coliseum, 2619 Washington Ave., 63103. For more information, call (217) 417-4463.

Fri., Nov. 30, 6 p.m., St. Louis Minority Supplier Development Council presents Excellence Awards Gala: The Powerof One. Four Seasons Hotel, 999 N. 2nd St., 63102. For more information, call (314) 241-1143.

Sat., Dec. 1, 3 p.m., Show Me Naturals hosts Kinky-Curly Anniversary with special guest Jenell Stewart. Legacy Books & Café, 5249 Delmar Blvd., 63108. For more information, call (314) 486-5003.

Sat., Dec. 1, 6:30 p.m., Redevelopment Opportunities forWomen hosts 2012 Trivia Night. To benefit women and children facing the challenges of poverty, domestic violence, and/or homelessness. Central Reform Congregation, 5020 Waterman Ave., 63108.

Through Dec. 2, Fox Theatre presents Blue Man Group 527 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, call (314) 534-1678 or visit www.metrotix.com.

Dec. 7 – 9, Chaifetz Arena presents Batman Live. For the first time, Batman - the world’s most popular DC

Super Hero - is now an allnew, live-action arena. The story focuses on Robin’s quest for justice, which leads him to follow in the footsteps of his hero - the mysterious vigilante known as Batman, much to the dismay of his protective guardian, billionaire Bruce Wayne. 1 S. Compton Ave., 63103. For more information, call (314) 977-5000 or visit www.metrotix.com.

Dec. 8 – 9, Stone Hill Winery-Hermann presents Say Cheese Wine Trail. Follow the trail to seven local wineries and taste quality cheese dishes paired with each winery’s perfectly matched wines. Advance tickets only. 1110 Stone Hill Hwy., 65041. For more information, visit www.visithermann.com.

Mon., Dec. 17, 7 p.m., Creative Vibe Industries LLC presents She Is Queen Charity Fashion Show 2012 Celebrate the beauty and importance of women while supporting the life changing work of local women’s shelter, Shalom House. Some of the most talented runway models in St. Louis will showcase the amazing work of master fashion designers. Better Family Life Multicultural Center, 5415 Page Blvd., 63112. For more information, visit www.creativevi.com.

Nov. 23 & 36, 7 p.m., Left Bank Books hosts author Bree Housley, author of We Hope You Like This Song. At age 25, Shelly lost her life to complications caused by Preeclampsia. Housley recounts her way to keep Shelly’s memory

Tues., Nov.

CWE

Joffe Hull author of The Big Bang. An upscale covenant-controlled community where secret affairs, home shopping parties, religious fundamentalism and a power hungry homeowner’s board keep the local residents distracted from the fact that their homes are literally rotting beneath them. 399 Euclid Ave., 63108. For more information, call (314) 367-6731.

Wed., Nov. 28, 7 p.m., Left Bank Books CWE hosts author Virginia Slachman author of Many Brave Hearts Slachman depicts the story of her father growing up in Depression-era St. Louis and his war experiences as a Lieutenant Commander serving aboard submarines in the South Pacific. 399 Euclid Ave., 63108. For more information, call (314) 367-6731.

Thur., Nov. 29, 7 p.m., St. Louis County Library Headquarters hosts author Robert Merry, author of Where They Stand: The American President in the

Eyes of Voters and Historians

Achallenging way of playing “Rate the Presidents,” pitching historians’views against the judgment and votes of the American people. The book invites readers to pitch their opinions against the voters of old, the historians, and against the author himself. 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 63131. For more information, call (314) 994-3300.

Fri., Nov. 30, 7 p.m., Left Bank Books Downtown hosts Edward Ibur& William Roth as they discuss Teacher of the Year. Edward Ibur founded and co-teaches the Gifted Writers Project for Middle & High School. The novel features an eclectic array of musical genres as a teacher agrees to work with three interventionists after a handful of his students fail the critical year-end state assessment. 321 N. Tenth St., 63101. For more information, call (314) 4363049.

arts

Sun., Dec. 2, 2:30 p.m., PT Salon presents Seasons Hair Show Live. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Sheldon Concert Hall & Art Gallery, 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, call (314) 426-1022 or visit www.ptsalonstl.com.

Mon., Dec. 3, 6 p.m., The Regional Arts Commission invites you to celebrate The Future of the Arts. Centene Plaza, 7700 Forsyth Blvd., 63105. For more information, call (314) 863-5811.

Fri., Dec. 14, 11:30 a.m., The Regional Arts Commission invites you to 2012 Advocacy Luncheon forthe Arts. Meet with state legislators from the St. Louis region and help them to understand the importance of funding the arts. 6128 Delmar Blvd., 63112. For more information, call (314) 863-5811.

Through Dec. 22, The St. Louis University Museum of

Art presents Persuasive Politics 2012: Presidential Campaign Memorabilia. A George Washington coat button; an “I Like Ike” cigarette pack; and a Votomatic voting machine (with butterfly ballots) used in the 2000 presidential election in Palm Beach, Florida, are among more than 700 campaign items ranging from the historic and stoic to the contemporary and whimsical. 3663 Lindell Blvd., 63156. For more information, call (314) 977-2666.

theatre

Through November24, Fontbonne University presents Imaginary Jesus. Thursday – Sunday. Based on the novel by Matt Mikalatos, this is the hilarious, fast-paced, not-quite-fictional story of Matt Mikalato’s encounters with hundreds of Imaginary Jesuses on his way to finding the real deal. 6800 Wydown Blvd., 63105. For more information, call (314) 719-8060.

Nov. 29 – Dec. 2, The Grandel Theatre presents Real Life an Urban Musical. Explore the experiences of individuals within the ghettos of the inner city. Ray identifies with the consequences and repercussions of life and connects his fate with sense of abandonment from his parents, which compelled him to continue a senseless life of reckless behavior and deviant social patterns. 3610 Grandel Sq., 63103. For more information, call (314) 359-8299.

Nov. 29 – Dec. 2, Visitation Academy presents The Storytellers by Brian Way. This play takes several familiar children’s stories and weaves them together as the cast of characters act them out with some audience participation. 3020 N. Ballas Rd., 63131. For more information, call (314) 265-0125.

Nov. 30 – Dec. 2, WU Dance Theatre presents Rootednees, Mobility, and Migration directed by Cecil Slaughter.

Edison Theatre, 6445 Forsyth Blvd., 63105. For more information, call (314) 935-6543 or visist www.metrotix.com

Dec. 7 – 9, COCAFamily Theatre Series presents The Little Dancer-3D. Astory featuring Degas’famous statuette, which comes to life and dances through various scenes depicted in famous works of art. 524 Trinity Ave., 63130. For more information, call (314) 7256555.

Dec. 7 – 15, Magic Smoking Monkey Theatre presents Stupefy! The 90-Minute Harry Potter, a late-night parody of all 8 movies, faster than you’ve ever seen them before. Fridays & Saturdays. Emerson Black Box Theater, Lindenwood University, 2300 W. Clay St., 63301. For more information, call (314) 3615664.

help is needed! The Mississippi Regional Blood Center will be collecting the donations. 1600 Feise Rd., 63368. For more information, call (636) 561-5680.

Nov. 28, 6 p.m., Triad Sports and Family Chiropractic presents Educational Knee Talk by JenniferMcCleary, D.C., 10425 Old Olive Street Rd. Ste LL1. To reserve a seat, please call 314-993-2424.

Wed., Dec. 5, 8 a.m., SSM St. Mary’s Health Center hosts Mammogram Screenings Free mammograms, clinical breast exams and breast-care education are available for qualifying women 40 or older with no insurance or insurance that doesn’t pay for mammograms, and never had a mammogram or haven’t had one in more than 13 months. 1031 Bellevue Ave., 63117. For more information, call (314) 768-8697.

Sat., Dec. 1, 6 p.m., Arthritis Foundation hosts SilverBall Gala.

lectures

Thur., Nov. 29, 11 a.m., St. Louis Society of Professional Journalists presents Stories Behind 2012 Missouri Senate Race. Discover the newsroom anecdotes behind the Akin vs. McCaskill senate race. Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell Blvd., 63112. For more information, call (314) 746- 4599 or visit www.spj.org

Thur., Nov. 29, 6 p.m., Free Financial Seminar. Free 90minute financial seminar created by author and entrepreneur Anthony Morrison! Learn how to generate income online without selling anything and build a profitable online business. Crowne Plaza Hotel St. Louis—Clayton, 7750 Carondelet Ave., 63105. For more information, call (888)

233-0368 or visit www.anthonymorrisonregistration.com/St Louis

Sun., Dec. 9, 2 p.m., A Conversation about The Help Listen to 1960’s civil rights activist JoHann Ellerbrake and Brenda Crisp, as they speak with Ann Garrido, of the Aquinas Institue of Theology, about their reactions to bestselling novel turned box office hit “The Help.” National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows, 442 S. De Mazenod Dr., Belleville, IL., 62223. For more information, call (618) 397-6700.

health

Wed., Nov. 28, 3:30 p.m., Morning StarChurch hosts Community Blood Drive Whether you’re a regular donor or a new donor, your

Sheldon Concert Hall presents The Marcus Roberts Trio See CONCERTS for more information.

R. Kelly’s R&B experience

SINGLE

Continued from C1

simply because the other woman is white – like when a man of a certain success level decides to eliminate black women as options from his dating pool, or black men who date white women because they buy into the negative stereotypes about black women.

But if two people come together out of a place of sincere love or connection, then how can I be mad?

I express this to my friend.

“I get it,” he says, “I just don’t like the idea of people judging me when they see us together. It becomes such a burden to me that I’ve introduced her as my friend

for the sake of avoiding that tension with my black friends. And every time I do it, she tells me how much that hurts her.”

“I don’t see how introducing her as your friend should be that big of a deal,” I say in his defense. “Wait a minute … how long have you been dating?”

“Four years.”

Help.

“You don’t DATE anyone for four years. That is your lady,” I say. “And knowing you, y’all are living together.”

“Well, yes, but it was strictly a financial decision –it wasn’t about us taking our relationship to the next level or anything.”

“Um, speak for yourself,” I tell him. “That girl never would have ALLOWED YOU TO MOVE IN WITH HER had she not thought the

Continued from C1

scholarship. Hendricks also about made his debut Friday, Nov. 16 at Powell Hall as a member of the St. Louis Symphony’s Youth Orchestra.

This year marks the first time an IN UNISON scholarship recipient has been named to the symphony’s Youth Orchestra, said Jessica Ingraham, youth orchestra manager and secondary education programs coordinator.

Through IN UNISON, a program supported by a $160,000 grant from the Monsanto Fund, the symphony provides music-related resources to local churches, primarily African-American churches.

In 1994, the collaboration resulted in the founding of the IN UNISON Chorus, made up of church members and others from the community. The chorus, led by Kevin McBeth, performs twice a year at Powell. This season, it will

present A Gospel Christmas on Dec. 20 and Lift Every Voice on Feb. 22, 2013 in honor of Black History Month. What began in 1992 as a small outreach program with five churches has grown significantly. Today, the program helps students by providing for year-long musical instruction and gives church members discounts so they can attend programs at Powell. In all, more than 20,000 people from more than 40 churches in the St. Louis area participate in the IN UNISON program.

With its expansion and growth, the program continues to foster music education through grants, to support younger students so they are able to attend music summer camps or have yearlong education and to provide scholarships to college music majors like Hendricks. The music scholarships are specifically for minority students pursing bachelor’s degrees in music or music education.

The choice of Hendricks as both a scholarship recipient and a member of the Youth

Orchestra is fitting in Ingraham’s eyes.

“You cannot find a more worthy student,” she said. Joseph is hard working and talented. He has two jobs, and he goes to school. A sophomore, Hendricks is also frugal and resourceful. When the strap for his instrument broke, he began using one of his belts.

His equipment may be somewhat makeshift, but his playing is not, Ingraham said. She worked with him in a ninepiece orchestra for a musical. With each performance, she became more and more aware of Hendricks’ talent. And when she was asked to recommend a bassoon player, she suggested Hendricks.

“Joseph’s sound is memorable,” she said. “He has the ability to find that inner beauty – when he plays, he goes beyond the page. You can tell that he is making a connection with the music.”

Edited slightly and reprinted with permission from stlbeacon. org.

RELATIONSHIP was going somewhere. Does she know –no, let me fix that – how does she feel about you being in a long-term relationship with her and uncomfortable with her race?”

He didn’t quite answer.

“I don’t know what to do. She’s been so supportive and everything, but no matter how hard I try I can’t reconcile it.”

“It sounds like you are doing what’s convenient for you and completely disregarding this woman’s feelings,” I say.

“You’ve never once said that you love her, so I don’t have to bother asking. But if you feel like somewhere in your heart that you do, keep in mind there is no shame in the love game – so either work through it, or move on … and move out. “

Continued from C1

really spurred me to spend my career to figure that out. What does it mean to be a curator, to be invested in the presentation of artwork?”

Since, she has been appointed by President Barack Obama as a member of the Committee to Aid in the Preservation of The White House – literally, as in preserving the objects in the White House and its physical structures. But she chose her beloved Studio Museum in Harlem as the crux of her conversation at The Contemporary.

“Our life began very modestly in a small, rented, second-floor space on 5th Avenue between 125th and 126th,” Golden said of the museum’s 1968 inception. “We were created by a multicultural group of supporters that felt Harlem needed a museum, deserved a museum, and who were interested in the role artists could play in the dialogue of community reinvention.”

Nearly five decades later, the Studio Museum in Harlem boasts 2,400 pieces that range from the 19th century to the present featuring works from artists of African descent.

“The Studio Museum in Harlem began with the radical idea that African-American artists were not adequately or appropriately invested in the history of American art,” Golden said.

She began her presentation of the museum’s history with a visual of Romare Bearden’s “Uptown Looking Downtown,” paying homage to his pivotal role in breathing life into the idea that would become The Studio Museum in Harlem. But Golden said that Jacob Lawrence’s “The Architect,” also one of the museum’s early acquisitions, is the most profound piece in the museum’s continuously growing collection.

“The Architect,” she said, is “so symbolic of the initial founding of who we were, creating something, building something, designing it and defining it and making it in the image of the community.”

She then spoke of an exhibit where she issued architects with the charge of developing blueprints of the residential possibilities within postgentrification Harlem.

Reparations Towers was one of the results. The mockup included a glass building in the shape of a clenched Black

Power fist. The artist used his space to create a model apartment and even took out a classified ad in the real estate section of the New York Times to preview the art show, seeking potential residents of the upper, upper, upper West side as “early gentrifiers.”

“People came imagining that this was a real possibility,” Golden said. “Artists can drive these conversations into places that really open up the big spaces that still need to be explored.”

She spoke of the radicalism and strength that imbue The Studio Art Museum in Harlem, a multi-generational love child of the Harlem Renaissance and the Black Arts Movement.

“It indicated a type of power: power in the art world, power in the cultural world, power with defining what art is and who has the power to say what it is going to be,” Golden said.

“When you look at ‘Uptown Looking Downtown,’ it is a work created at the time the museum was founded – one that defines in so many ways this idea of an institution rooted where it is but already thinking of itself out in the world, imagining the impact it could have for black artists in the world.”

R&B icon R. Kelly gave the nearly sold-out crowd a fantastic musical journey down memory lane at the Fox Theatre Thursday night by way of the dozens of hits that have made him a household name in urban music over the past two decades.

Photo by Kenny Williamson of rnkphoto

Continued from C1

But on Saturday in St. Louis, the DeBarge musical legacy will be temporarily merged thanks to Chico sharing the stage with his sister Bunny and brother Randy. It will be interesting to see – and hear – how Chico’s tenor voice blends with the trademark falsettos that made DeBarge and Switch household names in the black music genre. When it all began for Café Soul, founders Stevenson, Angela Brown and Rochelle “Coco Soul” Walker (who moved on from the organization two years ago to focus on her singing career) brought fresh and new live entertainment opportunities for St. Louis audiences and gave local talent a performance platform through their monthly open mic series. They gave name recognition through powerhouse performances by locals such as Wildmann, Teresa Jenee, Theresa Payne, Tiffany Elle and Tendai (who has hosted Café Soul since Walker’s departure), lending their stage to both rising music stars and those looking to re-emerge.

K-Jon, Syleena Johnson,

Al B. Sure, Case, P.J. Morton have all graced the Café Soul stage as featured performers over the course of their six years.

“I wanted us to be a landmark – a stamp here in St. Louis,” Stevenson said. As they press forward, their legacy is top of mind –and the ladies ultimately see themselves as a successful national brand bringing the best in old and new soul to eager audiences. The vision board for Café Soul includes its own venue and close ties with other live music hotspots around the nation.

But as they mark another milestone of survival on the fickle local music scene, Café Soul’s excitement lies in the once in a lifetime experience they will be providing guests –and hardcore DeBarge fans.

“Together for the first time,” Stevenson said with sheer excitement for the upcoming celebration. “One night, one stage – this is a don’t miss event.”

Café Soul’s 6th Anniversary Celebration starring Chico DeBarge with special guests Bunny and Randy DeBarge place on Saturday, November 24 at the Coliseum (2619 Washington). Doors open at 7:30 p.m. For more information about the show or Café Soul, call (314) 314.504.7405.

By Melanie Adams

First Night adds irst Night Watch service

History Museum hosts community program on Dec. 2

About 12 years ago while visiting New York for New Year’s I decided to forgo Times Square for their First Night Activities. Similar to First Night activities around the country, New York’s was a family fun, alcohol free event. After wandering around to the different venues for the evening, I ended up at an evening church service that replicated a traditional Watch Night service held at African American churches.

This year as part of First Night St. Louis, there will be a Night Watch service. In order to educate the community about Watch Night, the Missouri History Museum will be hosting a program on Sunday, December 2 at 3pm.

The story behind Watch Night or Freedom’s Eve services comes from the Civil War and speciically the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. It is believed that on December 31, 1862, enslaved people stayed up all night in anticipation for their freedom. Many of them gathered in churches to wait together for the news and celebrate at the stroke of midnight. Even though the Emancipation Proclamation only freed enslaved people in the confederate states, Watch Night continues to be celebrated in African American churches throughout the country.

This upcoming year marks a very special occasion for both Watch Night and the Emancipation Proclamation. In 2013, the country celebrates the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation, an event that many historians hail as the watershed event in the Civil War. With a stroke of his pen, President Lincoln took the irst step in transitioning enslaved people from property to citizens of a country they helped build. While it can be argued that African Americans are still ighting for their citizenship rights, some credit must be given to this important document and its role in the reuniting of the country.

Recognizing the importance of these two events, pastors from African American churches located in the Grand Center area approached First Night organizers about planning an event. A small committee was put together comprised of religious leaders, professors from St. Louis University and Harris Stowe University, and the Missouri History Museum. This group worked for the past six month to develop an educational and entertaining program that stays true to the spirit of Watch Night and can be enjoyed by all members of the St. Louis community.

In order to celebrate both Watch Night and the Emancipation Proclamation, the Missouri History Museum joined collaboration with Grand Center and the churches around midtown to present a Night Watch program as part of the annual First Night Celebration. This program will take place on Monday, December

31 at the Scottish Rite Cathedral and feature music, dance, and a theatrical performance. At the end of the evening, there will be a traditional African American Night Watch service which will allow all members of the St. Louis community to experience this 150 year old tradition.

In an effort to educate the community about Watch Night, the Missouri History Museum will host a program on Sunday, December 2 that provides a history of Watch Night. The program includes pastors of local African American churches as well as scholars discussing the subject. The program is family appropriate and a great way to introduce young people to the history of this annual event.

If you have never experienced a Watch Night program or participate every year, I hope you will consider attending both the program at the museum on December 2nd as well as the First Night program on December 31st.

History of Watch Night

Sunday, December 2-3pm Lee Auditorium • Free

A panel of religious leaders and scholars discuss the roots of Watch Night, an event that weaves stories about African American emancipation and spirituality.

“The Last Sale of Slaves,” oil on canvas, by Thomas Satterwhite Noble, 1871. Courtesy Missouri History Museum.

Happy anniversary

Eagle Scout

Roderick S. Robins a member the Greater St. Louis Area Boy Scout Council, Troop #551 has earned the highest advancement rank the Boy Scouts of America offers, the Eagle Scout Award. Over 110 million Americans have been members of the Boy Scouts but only 2 percent have achieved this honor. Rodrick is an honor student at Hazelwood Central High School.

Reunions

All reunion announcements can be viewed online!

Normandy High School Class of 1983 alumni, we would like to start planning our 30th class reunion. For more information, contact Normandy83vikings@ gmail.com or Facebook:

Normandy Vikings Class of 1983.

Roosevelt Class of 1983 committee is in the process of planning their 30th High School Reunion. We are looking for ‘83 Rough Riders to call us with their contact info: Rhonda Jones-Jackson (312) 554-5330, Bettye Clark-Potter (314) 484-2032, Deneen LottBaker (314) 772-2655, Carmen Williams (314) 546-1260, Randy Smith revrtaylor@gmail.com, email info to: roosevelt-class-of1983@hotmail.com.

SumnerHigh School Class of

~ CELEBRATIONS ~

Birthdays:

Nov. 21

Happy 4th Birthday to Ayanna Nunn. Daddy Loves You!

Nov. 23

Happy 1st Birthday to Faith Crayton. We love our beautiful niece! “We got to keep the Faith.”

Nov. 20

Happy Birthday to BrotherGary Van Buren of Breath of Life Christian Church (pictured below with his brother, Carmichael Van Buren). These two are still celebrating and growing old gracefully. Your family: Pastor Amber, Perry, Carmichael, Pamela, Debbie,Karl Michael, Darleen, Caroline, Jerome and Mama Josephine

1963 is seeking all classmates for its 50th Class Reunion June 14 - 16, 2013 at Sheraton Westport Chalet, 900 Westport Plaza. You may contact any of the following classmates: Jacqueline Vanderford @ 314.265.9541 email: jvanderford63@att.net, John Abram @ 314.276.0741 email: AbramJD50@aol.com, Camillia Banks email: camibanks@gmail.com, or Terri Cobb @ 314.868.0233.

University City High School class of 2003 will be celebrating their 10 year reunion July 2013 in St. Louis. Please email us at

Ucityclassof2003@gmail.com for additional information.

Vashon High School, Class of 1978 will be celebrating its 35th year reunion July 19-21, 2013. Please contact Zaro McPherson (314) 285-3350, or Vareda Madison at (314) 3815250 or geddyupgang@yahoo.com. Please leave name and number.

Vashon High School Class of 1984 will host a Skating Fundraiser on December 8 at St. Nick’s, 701 N. 18th St, 6-9 pm, $5 donation. We are also planning our 30th year reunion. Please contact us at

vashonclassof1984@yahoo. com or visit us on Facebook: Vashon Class Eighty Four.

West Side M. B. Church youth during the 1950’s, 60’s, and 70’s, will have a reunion April 26- April 28, 2013. Please call Jacqueline (Perry) Williams at 314-3683128: email jw611@sbcglobal.net or e-mail Barbara (Wiley) Spears at bjwspears@yahoo.comwith your current name, address, phone contact, and e-mail address. We look forward to hearing from you by December 31, 2012.

FREE OF CHARGE

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

Send your announcements to: kdaniel@stlamerican. com or mail to: St. Louis American Celebrations

c/o Kate Daniel 4242 Lindell Ave St. Louis, MO 63108

Reunion notices are free of charge and based on space availability. We prefer that notices be emailed to us! However, notices may also be sent by mail to: Kate Daniel, 4242 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108. Deadline is 10 a.m. on Friday. If you’d like your class to be featured in a reunion profile, email or mail photos to us. Our email address is: reunions@ stlamerican.com

Faith Crayton

James and Myrna Carruth will celebrate 10 years of marriage on November 22!

Ayanna Nunn

COGIC re-elects Presiding Bishop Blake

Faith leaders confirmed at 105th Holy Convocation in St. Louis

American staff

During the 105th Holy Convocation, in St. Louis, the Church of God in Christ (COGIC) once again chose Bishop Charles E. Blake Sr. as its Presiding Bishop.

The General Assembly, the Legislative Body of the Church of God in Christ, overwhelmingly reelected Bishop Charles E. Blake Sr. to the Office of Presiding Bishop and leader of the church’s Executive Branch. Bishop Blake is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the nearly 6.5 million-member church.

Presiding Bishop Charles E. Blake Sr. says, “I am humbled and delighted to be chosen to continue to lead one of the greatest churches in the world. The Church of God in Christ is a beacon of hope and love. I want to thank the church for the opportunity to serve as presiding bishop for another quadrennial.”

The General Board is the Board of Directors of the denomination and governs the church between meetings of the General Assembly. The General Board consists of twelve members including the Presiding Bishop. The 2012 General Assembly delegates also elected four new members to the General Board, with seven returning incumbents.

Ted Thomas Sr. and Bishop Lawrence M. Wooten.

The additional national officers elected for a new four-year term include General Secretary Bishop Joel H. Lyles, Jr., Financial Secretary Bishop Frank Anthone White and Treasurer Pastor Charles Harrison Mason Patterson.

Board of Bishops: Bishop John H. Sheard, Chair; Bishop Donald R. Murray, 1st Vice President; Bishop Albert Galbraith, 2nd Vice President; Bishop Larry Shaw, Secretary; Bishop Hester Bordeaux, Assistant Secretary; Bishop Cody Marshall, Treasurer; and Bishop Bobby Warren, Sergeant at Arms.

Trustee Board: Dwight E. Walls, Chair; Mildred Linzy, Vice Chair; Sylvia H. Law, 2nd Vice Chair; David Hall, Jr., Josephus Shepherd, Georgia Macklin Lowe, Cari Barnes, Joseph Chase, Amos Smith, Melton Timmons, William Watson III, Ailean Stingley, Sandra Smith Jones, Michael Golden, Jr. and Darin Burns.

Pastors and Elders: Michael Eaddy, Chair; Destry Bell, Vice Chair; Prince Bryant II, Secretary; and Thomas May, Treasurer.

Chairman of the General Assembly Pastor James Hunt says, “I would like to thank all of the delegates, they did a great job. The quadrennial election was excellent, Election Committee Chairlady Myra Banks and her committee did a commendable job with the election, and everything was done timely and in an expeditious manner.”

The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?

(Jeremiah 17:9)

As I completed my morning exercise routine and headed back to the hotel that we were staying at for two weeks. I noticed how big and beautiful and well maintained the hotel looked on the outside. It had a grandeur persona about it. It stood tall and the frame was structured to perfection.

But because I was a guest there I knew the inside was not at all the same. Matter of fact it was the total opposite and I was not pleased at all.

I begin to struggle with a question. “Why do they care more about the outside of the building then they do about the inside, after all that’s where the guest have to stay?”

is wicked it doesn’t matter how wonderful and awesome the makeup is, the man or woman is wicked. Jesus say’s it like this in Matthew 12:33: Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by his fruit. In other words people can deceive for only a little while; once they allow you inside you will see just how they really look.

The same with the hotel. I was sold on the outside but the inside made me want my money back. That’s why it’s best to pray about everything before we make any decisions.

Joy Blair

The same thought came to me about us as people. We work so hard at looking so perfect on the outside trying to impress others and could care less about our hearts. We hold our image in great esteem. We put so much focus and effort on the outside and we concentrate so little on our inner self.

Returning Incumbents are Bishop Phillip Aquilla Brooks, Bishop Jerry Wayne Macklin Bishop Roy Lawrence Hailey Winbush, Bishop George Dallas McKinney Bishop

Nathaniel Wyoming Wells, Bishop Sedgwick Daniels and Bishop Frank Otha White.

Newly elected members are Bishop J. Drew Sheard, Bishop Brandon B. Porter, Bishop

The Church of God in Christ is the fifth largest Protestant religious denomination in the United States with churches in 57 countries worldwide and an estimated membership of nearly 6.5 million members.

People do it all the time in relationships. We tend to choose our mates by what they look like and not who they really are, which causes so many problems. The heart reveals the person. If the heart

Proverbs 3:5-7 says, Trust in the LORD with all of your heart; and lean not unto your own understanding in all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in your own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. In 1 Samuel 16 God sent the Prophet Samuel to a man named Jesse to anoint one of his sons as king of Israel. Once Samuel arrived he chose who he thought would be king according to the outer appearance but the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD see not as man see; for man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.

The American is accepting Inspirational Messages from the community. Send your column (no more than 400 words) as a Word document and pasted text to cking@stlamerican.

Bishop Charles E. Blake Sr. delivered the message during the Sunday morning service held in the Edward Jones Dome as part of the Church of God in Christ’s 105th Holy Convocation in St. Louis. Photo by Wiley Price

Celebrity Swagger Snap of the Week

Sultry songstress Tamia gave one lucky fan the experience of a lifetime Thursday night at The Fox Theatre. Steve came all the way from The Missouri Bootheel to see her take the stage in St. Louis. And in return for the gracious gesture Tamia invited him on stage for an up close and personal performance of her R&B hit “Stranger in My House.”

Frisky business at the Fox. Thousands of others and myself received the shock of our lives upon entering the building only to be met with the roughest of cold hand frisks in our quest to see some raunchy R&B Thursday night at the Fox! I mean, it was an Imperial Palace style pat down.

SoIconfrontmyabuser(whowasservingtherobustonefrom“Bridesmaids”) by saying, “What is happening and when did we start getting frisked at the Fox?”

She says, “We’ve always frisked guests” in such a matter of fact tone that if I hadn’t been there three times in the past two months and known better I would have believed this lie of the century.

“No, you don’t.” I reply. “Look, I’ve been working here for seven years and I’m telling we check guests at every show.”

She was so committed to this untruth that I had to think back. And in my entire history as a Fox patron I only had one memory where I recalled anybody in uniform grabbing below my waist. I had a fresh full-color airbrush designed manicure and one of the door workers was kind enough to reach in my pocket and grab my ticket so my palm trees weren’t smudged.

I don’t want to age myself, but in more than 20 years I’ve never been patted or prodded once. Can someone please enlighten me as to why on this night they were so pressed to see if folks were packing heat – and at R. Kelly of all places?

R&B for the single ladies. After stalling to make time for all of the fans to get tussled, “The Single Ladies Tour” kicked off with the lovely Tamia. Mrs. Hill came on stage looking like she had been doing lunges every day of her entire 14 year absence to build up those legs of steel. And she was hunching with all of her might in her little naughty angel bloomers too. Her voice and va-va voom package were flawless, but I was quietly bored after the second song and dozed off until she gave the encore of her life with “Stranger in My House.” After I woke up from my little Tamia nap, and “R-20 minutes” of intermission, R. Kelly emerged to the delight of howling middle aged ladies. I can’t say that I caught life from his Brazilian bikini wax facial hair game, but I must say Kellz has remained well preserved over the last century. Even though I sang along and put my hands in the air like I just don’t care, I was a nervous wreck during the first part of the show. He was speeding through hits like he had downed 3 5-hour energy drinks and was pacing around like he was going to punch after 30 minutes like Tamia. He tried to trick the crowd into thinking so, but even if that was actually his plan A, those fans were not having it. He then took his performance out of fast forward mode and put on the kind of show we know and love. Although I must admit that I would have rather seen him finish about five more songs in the snippet segment than see him hide in the crowd, snatch some woman up with a simulated (display) and perform a cussword-laced musical monologue about a lousy girlfriend. But, as per usual, Rrra served me life and the only downside of the night was seeing all of those weathered hands of women way too grown to be grabbing for a man during a concert – and the fact that a few made full contact and R. Kelly didn’t miss a note.

At the Loft with Lexus Len. In a rare Wednesday night out (for no reason) , I hit a couple of regular goings on and had a good time, to say the least. My first stop was my girl Lexus Len’s weekly happy hour at the Loft. As soon as I hit the door I was thrilled with the sounds of Cheryl Brown and Jeremiah Allen tearin’ up (in a good way, of course) some of my favorite R&B and soul jams. I’m telling you, if you want an intimate AND GROWN good time be sure to stop by. The party starts and 6 p.m.

Wildin’out with Jovan Bibbs. I don’t quite know the name of Jovan Bibbs’ weekly open mic comedy experience, but “Wilding out Wednesday” would be quite appropriate after the cackle that had me rolling all over Lola. I don’t know if it was the Drumline St. Louis and their shocking HBCU inspired performance, the sickening slow wind of a preppy gentleman in the front row or the hee-lariously goofy antics of Jovan Bibbs as host – but they had me at hello! They do it every week and tonight (we come out on a Wednesday this week) they are donating a portion of the proceeds to charity. The show starts at 9 p.m.

So long 609. I must say that a part of me is sad that I will no longer be able to squeeze up in 609 at some point during the weekend and see the folks finally old enough to get up in the club kick off their nightlife career. And apparently the club has a place close in the hearts of the soulful clubgoers. On Friday night it was too packed to even wave at people, and when Sunday came Skinker was looking like a midnight May Day Parade with all of the traffic – cars and people – trying to get their last sip of their interpretation of nightlife. It was crazy. And I’m guessing 609 had to be thrilled as it heads to that hotspot in the sky after so many years.

Erro returns…again. Since I’m already talking about good music, I might as well point out that one of the most beloved non-native soul singers to grace a St. Louis stage is coming back thanks to the 13 Black Katz and their Red Carpet Affair next Saturday (Nov. 24) at the Millennium Hotel. The one and only Eric Roberson will be on deck just after Thanksgiving to give us some of his off the cuff love songs…and I.CAN’T.WAIT! I’m also anxious to see how the Katz’ core audience (who is not necessarily in the mix with regards to Erro) will react to his sound. I have rarely seen anyone not feel his vibe and I think the all the way grown and sexy crowd will be a good look for him. The evening kicks off at 8 p.m. and will be hosted by the lovely Selena J

Tracey and Myesha were all smiles after an earful of classic R&B thanks to R. Kelly Thursday @ The Fox

Hasaan and Crystal lend a hand to the folks Wednesday night @ The Loft

Kizzy, Tishyra, Char and Nisha spend some family time at So Sexy Sundays @ The City

Valerie and Tovanda help the Ques celebrate Founders Day Saturday night @ The Rustic Goat Photo by Teddy Blackett

Terrell, Temeka and Rich were full of laughs thanks to the open mic comedy show Wednesday @ Lola

It was all about Que love as the men of Omega Psi Phi celebrated Founders Day Saturday night @ The Rustic Goat Photo by Teddy Blackett

Kim and Tracie enjoy a laidback evening of good music Friday night @ Lola

Zoe and Michelle fit right in with the exquisite surroundings of the Fox Theatre Thursday night

The beautiful Sabba enjoyed the tag team of Chan and Needles on the ones and twos Friday night @ Lola

Lexus Len played hostess with the most to guests like attorney Richard Banks during her happy hour Wednesday night @ The Loft

Photos by Lawrence Bryant

T. LOUIS AMERICAN The

A-B donates ‘Kings and Queens of Africa’to UNCF

Collection

American staff

Acollection of artwork featuring African leaders and rulers has returned for public viewing at Morehouse College in Atlanta.

Valued at more than $1 million, “The Great Kings and Queens of Africa” collection of paintings was commissioned by Anheuser-Busch in 1975. The company announced it has donated the entire collection to UNCF (United Negro College Fund), the country’s largest minority education organization.

UNCF will distribute pieces from the collection to six UNCF member colleges and universities: Morehouse College, Clark Atlanta University, Fisk University, Xavier University, Dillard University and Benedict College.

Anheuser-Busch also donated 30 college scholarships, valued at $2,500 each, to student leaders from the six UNCF member HBCUs. The announcement was made as part of a leadership symposium hosted by Anheuser-Busch and UNCF.

“Anheuser-Busch believes in supporting educational opportunities, advancing cultural awareness and preserving the historic legacy rendered in the ‘Great Kings and Queens’ series,” said Vanessa FosterCooksey, senior director of Community Affairs at Anheuser-Busch. “We are proud to add to the art collections at prestigious university and college galleries to inspire future leaders.” Presidents and students from the six UNCF schools receiving the donations joined Anheuser-Busch executives and the symposium keynote speaker, Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, at the Leadership Center on the Morehouse campus. Mayor Reed shared his personal success story with the young leaders, who also participated in workshops and a service project with the American Red Cross, Metropolitan Atlanta Chapter. Since the collection was first created, “The Great Kings and Queens of Africa” has educated the public about African history. It has been

of paintings commissioned in 1975 valued at $1M

exhibited in such prominent venues as the United Nations, Capitol Hill, the Martin Luther King Library and the Kennedy Center, and viewed by more than 43 million people. Now the collection will continue to educate generations to come as it hangs in university and college galleries across the country.

“Anheuser-Busch’s donation of‘The Great Kings and Queens of Africa’paintings to UNCF for display in UNCF member HBCUs is an important contribution to the artistic and cultural education that have always been hallmarks of the HBCU experience,” said Michael L. Lomax, UNCF president and CEO. “These works of art will help students

“We are proud to add to the art collections at prestigious university and college galleries to inspire future leaders.”

– Vanessa Foster-Cooksey,Anheuser-Busch

appreciate both the paintings’ artistry and the historical stories they tell, while the scholarships help outstanding student leaders overcome the financial obstacles that face so many of our HBCU students.”

First commissioned by Anheuser-Busch in 1975, “The Great Kings and Queens of Africa” is a series of 30 works by 23 African American artists, many of whom went on to have successful careers in fine

art. It features the great leaders and rulers throughout African history, researched by leading African history scholar, Dr. Henrik Clarke.

The collection’s award-winning artists included Jonathan Knight, Alexander Bostic, Barbara Higgins-Bond, Paul Collins, John Biggers, Lydia Thompson, Jerry Pinkney, Leo Dillon and Carl Owens. Reprints of the artwork were featured in Anheuser-Busch

advertising, calendars and posters. To view the collection, visit http://anheuserbusch.com/index.php/ourresponsibility/community-ourneighborhoods/education/legends-of-the-crown/. For more information about UNCF, visit www.UNCF.org.

Extended hours for cosmetology program

Vatterott Educational Centers in Missouri are now offering extended hours for cosmetology programs. The North Park – Berkeley Campus, Fairview Heights, and St. Charles locations are currently enrolling for the newly added 60 week evening

cosmetology program. Cosmetology training programs at Vatterott equip students with the skills to perform haircutting, shaping, coloring, facials, manicuring and pedicuring as well as the experienced instruction to guide them through state exams and licensing. Courses will provide hands-on training in professional development, salon ecology, business applications, practical applications, theories and procedures necessary to thrive in the field. Day and evening courses are now available for the Cosmetology program. Visit www.vatterott.edu or call 1888-202-2636 for more information about classes, schedules and enrollment.

Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed gave the keynote speech at the Leadership Center on the Morehouse College campus when Anheuser-Buschdonated

“The Great Kings and Queens of Africa”collection of paintings to the six member UNCF schools:Morehouse College,Clark Atlanta University,Fisk University,Xavier University,Dillard University and Benedict College.