November 23rd, 2017 edition

Police

By

Division have opened the investigation, which had been requested by U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay (D-St. Louis) and the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund (LDF). Jensen said the FBI St. Louis Division would collect evidence relevant to the accusations made by Clay, the LDF, the ACLU of Missouri and others, and “ensure there is a fair, thorough and impartial investigation.” Since it’s an ongoing investigation, Jensen declined

A family member of Sister Mary Antona Ebo kissed her goodbye after her homegoing service on Monday, November 20 at St. Alphonsus Liguori “Rock” Church. One of the legendary Sisters of Selma, she died Saturday, November 11 at age 93.

BuSineSS SALute

By Ryan Delaney and Brent Jones

n State education officials aren’t factoring in high school algebra and English yearend exams because of a problem with the testing vendor.

‘It takes a team to build a company,’ says Entrepreneur of the Year Gloria Carter-Hicks

“I’m

“It takes a team to build a company,” said 2017 Entrepreneur of the Year Gloria Carter-Hicks, founder, president and CEO of Hicks-Carter-Hicks. “My management style is to empower people and to give them the tools to be the best at what they do,” said 2017 Corporate Executive of the Year Melva Pete, vice president of human resources at SAK Humility is the

Support Center.

2017 Entrepreneur of the Year Gloria CarterHicks with Kathy Osborn, executive director of the Regional Business Council, at the 2017 Salute to Excellence in Business, held Friday, November 17 at Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis.

By Jessica Karins

Chris King

Of The

Photo by Wiley Price By Chris King

Goodbye, Sister Ebo

Photo by Maurice Meredith

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

Jennifer Hudson and David Otunga call it quits

Grammy Award winner and Oscar winner

Jennifer Hudson and reality star David Otunga have officially ended their ten-year relationship. The couple was engaged for several years, though recently backed away from setting a date for their nuptials.

According to TMZ.com, Otunga confronted Hudson with claims that she was secretly dating singer and music producer Mali Music.

TMZ said police removed Otunga from their family home Thursday night after Hudson got an order of protection against him.

The celebrity news and gossip site says the order claimed she feared him.

It also reportedly said he had gotten physical

with her and was a threat to her and her son. Otunga has vehemently denied the allegations.

Tyrese gets joint custody

Tyrese Gibson’s ex-wife, Norma Gibson, was denied a permanent restraining order against Tyrese after accusing him of brutally beating their 10-year-old daughter on Friday.

Instead, Tyrese was awarded joint custody to begin in January, and the former couple have already worked out a visitation schedule to allow Tyrese to see the child over the holidays.

- this has always been and will continue to be my priority. Today is the first day of the rest of my life with MY FAMILY, my FRIENDS, my fans and supporters and my business associates and of course my immediate TEAM *

Kandi stands by decision to not record with Xscape

“Real Housewives of Atlanta” star Kandi Burruss admitted she has no intentions of recording new music with Xscape despite their reuniting and going out on tour.

“Friday was not a win for me, it is a win for our daughter, Shayla. Who unfortunately has been exposed to tension, private and public embarrassment and growing up and feeling torn between 2 parents who are no longer married,” Gibson wrote in a lengthy Instagram caption.

Gibson - who married second wife

Samantha Lee in February this year - then hailed his custody agreement as a win for all fathers fighting to remain in their children’s lives.

“It is a win because she gets to spend equal time with both of her parents in joint legal custody while she continues to grow in a happy and healthy environment

In an interview with People Magazine, Burruss states her case.

An excerpt from the interview reads:

“It wasn’t a planned reunion.”

“What happened was a network was going to do an unauthorized movie about us, and of course I’m not going to let somebody just take my legacy. So, I called my group members and we were all able to have a conversation to start trying to get our story told the right way.”

“I was like, I need a public apology. She’s going to have to say to the world that the stuff that she said about me was a lie. And so, in doing that — we did it on the radio — and the radio disc jockey, he’s like, ‘Oh, Xscape is back!’ I was like, ‘Xscape is not back!’ All of

a sudden we started getting all these offers to perform and do shows, so I just went with the flow for the moment.”

“It’s always drama. We all think differently when it comes to handling business, or at least, the three of them think differently than me. It’s always them three against me, and I feel like I’m always made to be the villain. It’s really irritating and stressful.”

Usher accuser asks for case to be dismissed

Earlier this year, Usher Raymond was slapped with a lawsuit by a Jane Doe from Atlanta, later revealed to be Laura Helm accusing him of infecting her with the herpes virus.

According to reports, Helm’s new attorney has filed a motion to have the case dismissed without prejudice with intent to refile.

Helm’s old attorney withdrew from the case after audio leaked of Laura telling her publicist she never had unprotected sex with the pop star.A second set of accusers, including one man, are also suing Usher and are being represented by attorney Lisa Bloom.

Sources: People.com, TMZ.com, Instagram.com

*Spelling and grammar as it appeared in original post

Jennifer Hudson

Kandi Burruss

Biome School offers new environment for learning

Youth Learning Center operates public school chartered by UMSL

By Pat Matreci For The St. Louis American

A biome is defined as a specific environment that’s home to living things suited for that place and climate.

As a desert biome supports sagebrush and cacti, snakes and lizards, the Biome School supports diverse academic needs and abilities of its students in an educational ecosystem.

The Biome School in the Central West End opened in 2015 to engage children in an individualized and challenging learning environment. This charter school is sponsored by the University of Missouri-St. Louis and presently serves youngsters in grades K-2. Plans are to grow one grade at a time, eventually operating as a K-8 school by 2022.

The Biome is an offshoot of the Youth Learning Center (YLC), a non-profit organization established in 2003. For 14 years, YLC operated summer and afterschool STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) programs for grades 1-10. Organizers locally decided on a different approach.

“Internally, we debated the merits of opening a charter public school and finally committed when we realized we needed more time and a stronger relationship with parents to make a difference in the lives of children,” said Bill Kent, president and CEO for The Biome and YLC. The aim is to build each student’s intelligence and character. Moreover, each student is expected to meet or exceed grade-level expectations as defined by state and/or national standards, to become a reader and writer, and develop socially and

emotionally.

This is accomplished by using STEAM as a cross-curricular approach to learning.

“All forms of art play a vital role in STEAM, but especially

n “All

communication arts, which we define as reading, writing and speaking,”

Kent said. “An innovation or idea that cannot be communicated verbally, in written form, or visually has no value. The arts serve as a foundation for everything they learn. Building

that strong foundation will allow our students to fully participate in the opportunities provided at the Biome.”

Kent describes Biome instructors as self-directed learners who are resilient, creative, compassionate and ethical.

– Bill Kent, The Biome School

“They must exhibit the same qualities that they are working to develop in our students,” Kent said.

In the Biome’s symbiotic relationship, parents are an integral part of their children’s education. Parents are encouraged to volunteer

as room parents, become active in the Parent-Teacher Organization, or suggest other ways to get involved beyond what they do in the home.

So far this year, the school has hosted a back-to-school picnic in Forest Park, the first Literacy Morning (one Friday morning per month, parents and school stakeholders visit classrooms to read one-on-one or in small groups with the children), a Parent Education Night, and Family Night at the Saint Louis Zoo.

The Biome has created “popup micro-school” partnerships with community organizations and businesses to expand educational experiences for its students. Its location near an area rich in cultural and history, as well as research hospitals, universities and a rapidly developing innovation corridor, Kent said, should enhance the school’s ability to form meaningful partnerships. The prime focus has been its partnership with the St. Louis Zoo.

The Biome School’s Kristin Williams works with her kindergarten students Lucinda Eisenbraun, James Gowdy, Brayden Burks and Kiley Phillips on how to match shapes and colors during class at the Central West End campus.

Photo by Wiley Price

During last year’s pilot program, students met with zookeepers and nutritionists, and studied animals and zoo operations. A pre-project visit to the zoo and a month spent on related literacy, math and science helped to prepare the students. Kent hopes to attract additional funds to support expansion and more partnerships.

Kent said that the students who have attended since the school’s opening have demonstrated a marked confidence both academically and emotionally.

“We work on all academic facets, but pay special attention to literacy, which is critical at this early age and sets a foundation for learning in all other disciplines,” Kent said. “Children who came to us as nonreaders are ending the school year at or closer to their appropriate age level.”

Last year alone, assessment testing revealed about 20 percent of Biome students began the year proficient in reading, and ended the year with 59 percent reading proficiency.

Emotionally, Kent noted that youngsters who started out displaying severe acting-out behaviors grew to learn how to articulate their feelings in lieu of acting out. They also move about the building independently and are not shy about sharing their knowledge or skills with other students.

Because the Biome is a charter school, there is no tuition charge to attend. It is open to all youngsters. If more applications are submitted than seats available, a lottery is conducted to determine who will be allowed to enroll. After-school care, which is connected to a student’s day experience, also is offered. For more information, visit www. thebiomeschool.org.

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Editorial /CommEntary

Giving thanks and offering resistance

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 and 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 vicious assault on Native Americans is not widely discussed anymore. The holiday has come to mean turkey and the trimmings, pre-Christmas 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 of Darkness, Joseph Conrad had Marlowe define the “conquest of the earth” as “taking from those who have a different complexion or slightly flatter noses than ourselves.”

Hanksgiving

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.”

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.

According to tradition, 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 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.

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 or Port-au-Prince, Thanksgiving is meaningless and is certainly no holiday. It is mostly a grim reminder of 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 along 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.

That is more true than ever, with a U.S. president who frequently stands with white nationalists and white supremacists after running a hate-filled campaign and rewarding the most diehard supporters of that racist, misogynist, xenophobic campaign with cabinet positions. Let us all give thanks for what blessings we have – and commit ourselves to resisting resurgent white nationalism and white male supremacy and working toward a future with greater racial equity, where blessings are more equitably shared.

As I See It - A Forum for Community Issues

Work with immigrants, don’t just talk about them

By Adriano Udani For The St. Louis American

The staff of U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay (D-MO) recently organized a panel entitled “Know Your Rights on DACA: A Nation of Dreamers and the Future of the American Dream” held at St. Louis University. A panel of legal experts joined Congressmen Clay and U.S. Rep. Raul Grijalva (D-AZ). This event helped broadcast the legislative activity of Clay and Grijalva, who are co-sponsors on a Clean Dream Act that creates a path to legal status for undocumented immigrants who came to the country as children, but would not include spending for more border security. This is welcomed legislative action. Yet, as Carolina Hidalgo and Willis Ryder Arnold at St. Louis Public Radio reported, Missouri Dreamer attendees said it fell flat. Dreamers and allies were disappointed with Clay staffers who failed to allow the Dreamers to express themselves in the own ways. After all, the event was billed as inviting immigrant youth to share their stories and join a conversation. As an audience member, it felt more like a press event. Allies also voiced concern that planning transpired without understanding the ramifications of revealing attendee’s personal identification that could be used to find potential immigration violators. There is a larger problem that typically involves immigrant advocacy: The plight of immigrants, particularly marginalized groups of the foreign-born is co-opted too often for political attention and proving one’s liberalism, but with no commitment for actual policy action.

Guest Columnist

Adriano Udani

Years of research and testimonials have already provided a consistent answer to the questions that politicians are looking for: Congress must provide a path to citizenship, without increasing funding for a wall or more border enforcement. Various forms of a Dream Act have been introduced since 2001. More press releases and statements of support are purely symbolic at this point. It is time for members of Congress to do their jobs and pass a humane law. The symbolic gesture of having a conversation about immigrants, but not actually involving them is also apparent here in St. Louis. For instance, Missouri lawmakers insist that DACAeligible youth and Dreamers who are longtime residents are ineligible for scholarships and also pay the international or out-of-state rate instead of the in-state rate for college. Local civic and business leaders have denounced the Trump Administration’s decision to end DACA; many continue to market our region as an immigrant destination. However, only a few groups have called upon Dreamers to share and listen to their stories of injustice and poverty due to increasing tuition rates and debt. Immigration reform has a personal and consequential impact on immigrants and their families. That makes Dreamers informed policy recipients and

As I See It - A Forum for Community Issues

Stop Greitens from putting politics back into education

By Bruce Moe For The St. Louis American

The Missouri State Teachers Association is deeply troubled by the politicization of the State Board of Education. Recent actions by Gov. Eric Greitens and several newly appointed board members highlight the important safeguards the framers of the Missouri Constitution put in place to ensure that public education in Missouri remained focused on what is best for students, not politicians.

The attempted ouster of a sitting commissioner without any justification, by newly appointed and unconfirmed board members, is outside of the framework adopted by Missouri citizens in a statewide ratification of our current Constitution. Perhaps a brief review is in order.

In a Special Election on Tuesday, February 27, 1945, Missouri citizens adopted a new Constitution for the state with a clear direction for education, removing partisan politics from the State Department of Education. The previous Missouri Constitution allowed for a board where an elected superintendent of public schools presided as president

of the board and the governor, secretary of state and attorney general served as ex officio members forming the State Board of Education.

In the Address to the People, adopted by the members of the Constitutional Convention, the education provisions were outlined:

“The board’s principal function is to select a state commissioner of education and to advise with him on general educational policy. The

commissioner’s tenure will depend upon his fitness, educational leadership and service rendered. We anticipate that a continuity of policy in the field of education will result.”

Included in documents from the 1943-1944 Constitutional Convention of Missouri, the members of the convention outlined that an appointed commissioner would permit a continuity of service for that office and that an eight-member board would allow wide

etters to the editor

House tax bill gives to rich, takes from poor

The Republican tax scam passed today on November 16 in the U.S. House betrays working families, explodes the debt, and punishes students, seniors, and homeowners.

It will raise taxes on 36 million middle-class families. It will bury student loan holders even deeper in debt by eliminating the deduction for student loan interest.

It penalizes hard work by eliminating the deduction for state and local taxes.

And our seniors, who depend on Medicare, will suffer a $25 billion cut from that vital program over the next 10 years.

government made improper payments totaling $144.3 billion in 2016. Importantly, $96 billion of the improper payments were Medicare and Medicaid related. Over 10 years this is $960 billion, twice the Budget Resolution amount of $473 billion to be cut from Medicare.

Charlotte Renner Maryland Heights

Threatening sanctuary cities steps on 10th Amendment rights

representation across the state. The inclusion of staggered terms for the members would prevent domination of the board by any governor of the state.

When the citizens of the state are removed from the process, political opportunity and dangerous precedents sneak in the recesses of public policy. A drastic partisan shift in the state board and the unprecedented removal of Dr. Margie Vandeven would be a step backward for Missouri’s students and teachers and a smack in the face of the citizens who ratified Missouri’s current Constitution drafted specifically to remove politics from our state school system. The powers of a state come from the people, with state constitutions being the original basis of our liberties. The citizens of 1945 had a vision, they drafted it, explained it to the voters and ultimately were successful in passing it. The Missouri State Teachers Association respectfully asks that members of the State Board of Education not sit by as the Constitution is rewritten by executive fiat. Bruce Moe is executive director of the Missouri State Teachers Association.

best-positioned to understand their own experiences and the shortcomings of policies that target them.

Storytelling is certainly a form of advocacy. Yet, storytelling isn’t and shouldn’t be the only thing that we ask immigrants to do. From my own national research, DACA recipients showed higher interest in political affairs and are more politically active than most native-born Latinx groups in the 2016 election. This makes sense. Being socialized in a contentious political environment that has constantly been hostile to them and family members has fostered a sense of active vigilance in the U.S. political system. Not working with them would waste an opportunity to make our government more accountable and democracy more vibrant. Immigration reform exists as a political spectacle for most citizens: an issue highly visible in the media, but not concretely experienced in everyday life. For citizens who proclaim themselves as Dreamer allies, there is an important responsibility here: showing up in Jefferson City and testifying about certain bills that make it difficult for immigrants to live in Missouri. Without voters who are willing to go beyond lip service, tweets, and Facebook posts, and actually talk to politicians about how important immigrants are in their lives, politicians will remain unhindered and base legislation on inappropriate stereotypes and generalizations.

Adriano Udani is assistant professor of Political Science in the Public Policy Administration Program at University of Missouri – St. Louis.

House Republicans not only raised taxes on millions of Americans, they voted to add $1.5 trillion to the national debt, which our children and grandchildren will have to pay for.

Under the GOP tax scam, the haves will have more … and everyone else will be asked to pay for it.

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

Budget cuts to Medicare will do harm

The Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Resolution is difficult to interpret but mainly seems to lay the groundwork for passage of tax reform through the budget reconciliation process. The recommendation in the Budget Resolution to cut $473 billion from Medicare over the next 10 years is unacceptable.

The language indicates that Speaker Paul Ryan’s “premium support” plan would be introduced in subsequent legislation that would destroy Medicare as we know it.

Ryan has been trying for years to privatize Medicare.

The “premium support” plan will force Americans, now 55 and younger, to face more expensive choices inferior to traditional Medicare. The cost per person for today’s Medicare beneficiaries will rise more rapidly than it does now. “Premium support” will prove to be the most wasteful use of taxpayer dollars ever. Private insurance companies have never been more cost-efficient than Medicare. There are less disruptive ways that Congress should address to reduce the cost of Medicare – eliminate waste and improper payments. The

The Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights and Economic Justice represents the cities of Lawrence and Chelsea in Massachusetts in litigation challenging the constitutionality of the Trump Administration’s efforts to defund sanctuary cities.

The Department of Justice has announced an unprecedented encroachment on the lawful exercise of local and state authority. The federal government’s escalating threats amount to unconstitutional coercion and are in direct violation of well-established rights that are protected under the 10th Amendment.

Local officials have broad discretion to create and implement policies that meet the public safety needs of their residents. We will continue to protect children and families in sanctuary cities against the federal government’s unconstitutional abuse of power.

Iván Espinoza-Madrigal Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights and Economic Justice Boston

Working together to improve policing

We must continue to work on improving policing in our community. The Neighborhood Safety Training Workshop like the North Newstead Association held recently is a good start. Monthly St. Louis Metro Police District Community outreach meetings also open the door for dialogue between residents and police officers to assist in crime

and getting criminals

Guest Columnist Bruce Moe

Cold Water Elementary honors veterans

Thirty-Nine Veterans from all four branches of service attended the fourth annual Cold Water Elementary School Veterans Day Breakfast. Veterans and students enjoyed breakfast courtesy of Cold Water teachers and staff, and the veterans shared “stories of when and where they served,” said Daniel Dix, principal at Cold Water. Stephanie Knight and Dawn Probst were the Veterans Day breakfast organizers.

Free Taxpayer Advocate Service on Dec. 1

In partnership with Washington University Low Income Taxpayer Clinic and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) St. Louis Taxpayer Advocate, Comptroller Darlene Green

will host the first Taxpayer Advocate Service Problem Solving Day 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday, December 1 in St. Louis City Hall Rotunda, 1200 Market St.

The Taxpayer Advocate Service will be available to assist taxpayers in-person with tax problems they have not been able to resolve with the IRS. The goal is to provide oneto-one guidance, direction on next steps and case-building ideas. Taxpayer advocates anticipate being able to help about 30 attendees, so scheduling an appointment is recommended. To schedule an appointment, contact Angel Johnson at 314-339-1835.

East St. Louis Center nets $10M in Upward Bound grants

With the addition of three new federally funded Upward Bound grants totaling more than $10 million over the next five years, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Center (ESLC) has expanded its programs and services for low-income, firstgenerational college-bound students.

The U.S. Department of Education administers the new ESLC Upward Bound grants, which are in effect for the next five years, and will fund the Veterans Upward Bound Program, the Workforce Development Program, the Scholars Academy at East St. Louis Senior High School, a Math and Science Program at Cahokia and Madison high schools, the SIUE Upward Bound Math & Science program, and the SIUE Upward Bound EC/BEM program serving students from East St. Louis and Cahokia (EC), and Brooklyn, East St. Louis Charter and Madison (BEM) high schools.

Seeking solutions to income volatility in St. Louis

By Tishaura O. Jones

For The St. Louis American

Many families in our community are struggling with a silent epidemic – income volatility.

“I can have a steady schedule but if it’s slow, they’ll send us home. Or, sometimes, we’ll work overtime. It depends.”

“My husband got laid off five months ago. I don’t know what he’s doing, temping here and there. He had a good union job.”

These are quotes from St. Louis community members who, like millions of their fellow Americans, experience month-to-month swings in income, making it hard to make ends meet, plan for the future, and save money.

According to an Urban Institute study, one in four American families are hit with unexpected disruption in income every year. For some, this volatility exists year-to-year, others see it as much as month-to-month or week-to-week.

These swings can cause family finances to spiral, especially when there are no savings to turn to. A survey conducted by the Federal Reserve found that 44 percent of adults are unable to cover a $400 emergency expense without selling something or borrowing. When faced with this kind of setback, households are forced to turn to unsustainable solutions like predatory loans that can leave them with more debt.

The issue of income volatility is not unique to St. Louis, but is exacerbated by other issues we face, including high poverty rates and stagnant wages.

There is a reason why the Ferguson Commission report included calls to action around financial empowerment. In St. Louis County, 22 percent of black residents live at or below the poverty line. In the city of St. Louis, that number goes up to 38 percent. For white residents, it’s 15 percent – not insignificant either.

To live comfortably in the city, an individual needs to make $15 an hour. For three months last spring, we afforded our workers a $10 minimum wage – still significantly below what families need, but a move in the right direction. Then in June, our state legislature passed a law capping the statewide minimum wage at $7.70.

Many in our community are stressed and anxious. Many are living paycheck to paycheck.

Our community has taken to the streets because they are desperate for change. They crave opportunity and demand solutions. We are not delivering.

I am committed to helping our most vulnerable. The tough reality that we need to accept is that our most vulnerable population is larger than we think. People need access to responsible banking, they need higher wages, affordable benefits, and they need ways to manage income volatility. Unless we address income volatility far too many people and communities will never reach their full potential.

This is why I am partnering with the Aspen Institute’s Expanding Prosperity Impact Collaborative (EPIC), socially-responsible fintech company LendUp, and other national and local partners on Finance Forward, a series that explores solutions to income volatility nationwide. Our hope is that bringing solutions-focused conversations to St. Louis will further strengthen the financial empowerment efforts that are already under way.

Change will not come quickly, but it starts with listening to the concerns expressed by members of our community, concerns that are legitimate. And, it comes from engaging a cross-section of organizations and industries who know that St. Louis can do better and want to see the city reach its full potential.

In working with the Aspen Institute and LendUp, we have pulled together a network of national leaders from the Pew Charitable Trusts and the Urban Institute, as well as local stakeholders including Justine PETERSEN and Washington University of St. Louis.

All are ready to sit down to have a meaningful solutions-driven conversation.

St. Louis deserves better than the status quo, better than what we saw before the Ferguson Commission report, better than what we’ve seen since, better than what has unfolded in the last few weeks.

We can create economic opportunities for St. Louis families. We can create new jobs and good jobs, with fair, steady wages, and good benefits. We can provide families with paths to financial security.

Tishaura O. Jones is the treasurer of the City of St. Louis.

Tishaura O. Jones

Construction Lewis Rice received the 2017 Corporate Diversity Award, but the chair of the law firm’s Diversity Committee, Ron Norwood, first yielded the podium to the committee vice chair, Bridget Hoy. She, in turn, first thanked Norwood for diversifying the Diversity Committee by appointing a woman – her – to help him lead it. In fact, all of the awardees spent most of their brief time in the spotlight thanking others, mostly family, mentors, colleagues and God.

Even the emcee, veteran KMOX news anchor Carol Daniel, struck a note of humility. She said her husband, who owns a landscaping business, had trouble with his truck that morning and needed a ride. “My husband is a small business owner,” Daniel said, “and when I say small, I mean small.”

It’s notable, in this regard, that not one of the leaders of the three presenting organizations –Donald M. Suggs, Joe Reagan and Michael McMillan – took to the podium for the event.

Three 2017 Excellence in Business Performance Awards were presented, to Monica Campbell, vice president of Community Development for Enterprise Bank & Trust; Patricia

POLICE

Continued from A1

Continued from A1 further comment or any followup questions.

Clay requested the investigation in a letter dated November 14, following a ruling on that date by federal District Judge Catherine Perry that criticized aggressive policing of protests and restricted the indiscriminate use of chemical agents against protestors and bystanders.

“I am deeply troubled by

Strong Hodges, project manager at Wells Fargo Advisors; and Christopher Pickett, an officer at Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale and the firm’s chief diversity officer.

The Top 25 African-American Businesses of the Year also were briefly recognized. Three of those – the Jalen D. Bledsoe Global Group, Murray’s Catering and Phillips Concrete Services –made the Top 25 for the first time this year.

The event’s lead sponsors were World Wide Technology and the Steward Family Foundation. The platinum sponsor was S.A.K. Construction, the gold sponsor was Edward Jones, and silver sponsors were At Home Care, Enterprise Bank & Trust, Lewis Rise and Wells Fargo Advisers.

Dr. T.D. Stubblefield, senior pastor of the First Baptist Church of Chesterfield, gave the blessing, striking a similarly humble note of Thanksgiving.

The humility of the highly accomplished awardees made a vivid impression on the sold-out luncheon crowd, which often rose to its feet in standing ovations.

“It was inspiring,” said Anthony Daniel, Securities Operations manager at Wells Fargo Advisers, a transplant from Mississippi who was evidently impressed by the gala, which he attended for the first time. “To see all of those people recognized and supported was motivational.”

the numerous reports and documented allegations of civil rights violations by law enforcement,” Clay wrote to Jensen.

“An investigation into alleged unlawful police actions could be a powerful example of how the federal government ensures justice is administered without bias and an acknowledgment that all rights must be respected. St. Louis is the poster child for the need of federal intervention to address decades of bad police relations that reinforce the decline and erode the trust of

Statue for Frankie

police-community relations.”

Perry’s ruling, in a suit brought by the ACLU of Missouri, was a stinging rebuke to St. Louis police, police leadership and Mayor Lyda Krewson. Both Krewson and interim Police Chief Lawrence O’Toole initially praised police for their work handling the Stockley verdict protests.

O’Toole went so far as to claim the police “owned the night” after a particularly aggressive night of policing that resulted in a massive kettle arrest of protestors, journalists and bystanders.

In her order, Judge Perry ruled that, “Police can’t declare an unlawful assembly and enforce it against those engaged in expressive activity unless persons are acting in concert to pose an imminent threat to use force or violence or to violate a criminal law with force or violence.” Perry also prohibited the use of chemical agents such as mace and pepper spray against “expressive, non-violent activity without probable cause to make an arrest and without providing clear and unambiguous warnings and

an opportunity to heed those warnings.”

Perry’s order indicated her judgment that police had taken upon themselves an unconstitutional punitive role when she forbid the use of chemical agents for “the purpose of punishing the person for exercising constitutional rights.”

ACLU attorney Anthony Rothert called the use of pepper spray “the new firehose,” a reference to the use of highpowered water hoses to disrupt protests and punish protestors during the civil rights era.

The injunction will remain in effect until Perry issues further instruction. That case will now proceed to a trial phase; the ACLU is seeking damages from the city and more permanent restrictions on SLMPD tactics.

Sherrilyn A. Ifill, president and director counsel of the LDF, first wrote to the U.S. attorney on October 27, copying city leadership, asking for “an independent investigation” of St. Louis police conduct. “Unfortunately, the widespread allegations of unlawful police conduct reflect what appears to be

a regional issue of abusive and unconstitutional policing by local law enforcement agencies,” Ifill wrote. “This cannot be permitted to continue; there must be accountability.”

The ongoing St. Louis protests were triggered by the acquittal of Stockley in the 2011 killing of Anthony Lamar Smith following a high-speed chase, during which Stockley was recorded on camera telling his partner they were going to kill Smith. Stockley claimed Smith was going for a gun when he opened fire, after a few minutes at the side of Smith’s car door. The only gun retrieved from Smith’s car had Stockley’s prints, but not Smith’s. Judge Timothy Wilson’s ruling acquitting Stockley included his rumination that it would be an “anomaly” if Smith had not been carrying a gun since Smith was, in his judgment, an “urban heroin dealer.”

Jessica Karins, an editorial intern for the St. Louis American from Webster University, contributed to this report.

Dr. Bill Danforth, chancellor emeritus of Washington University, visited with iconic St. Louis civil rights attorney Frankie Muse Freeman before the dedication of a statue in her honor in Kiener Plaza in downtown St. Louis on Tuesday, November 21.

Photo by Wiley Price

SCORES

show the state consistent improvement on the APR, Pearson said.

“We know we haven’t arrived but we’re beginning to see our points grow in academics, and that’s really exciting for us,” he said.

Being bumped up to provisionally accredited later this year or early next would mean Normandy could start to phase out a student transfer program that affects unaccredited districts.

Normandy has had to pay tuition for any student wishing to attend a different, higherperforming school, as well as transportation costs for students who transfer into the Francis Howell School District. It has cost the district millions of dollars.

Neighboring Riverview Gardens, which is currently provisionally accredited, scored in the 70-plus range for the third straight year. That makes the district a candidate to be reclassified as fully accredited.

“We’re very pleased,” superintendent Scott Spurgeon said.

An APR higher than 70 percent is considered fully accredited and below 50 percent is the unaccredited range. The state average among the more than 500 districts is 89.5 percent.

The decision to reclassify either district will be made by the State Board of Education, possibly as early as its December 1 meeting. In preparation for that decision, Normandy is working with

PROTEST

Continued from A1

Continued from A1 calls for Krewson to fire interim Police Chief Lawrence O’Toole.

At “Policy after Protest,” however, there was little interruption from the audience – and little suggestion that change in St. Louis could come from the top down.

The event featured two panels, each moderated by KMOX news anchor Carol Daniel. The first panel featured St. Louis Treasurer Tishaura O. Jones, student activist Antoine White, St. Louis Post-Dispatch columnist Tony Messenger, St. Louis Community College professor Terry Freeman, and Keith Williams of the Institute of Justice and Accountability.

The panel discussed what many of them saw as the primary obstacle to making progress in the wake of the not-guilty verdict for police officer Jason Stockley and the protest surrounding it -- police culture.

Jones said while she is “cautiously optimistic” about newly appointed Director of Public Safety Jimmie Edwards, she thinks the makeup of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department will also have to change. Williams, a retired police colonel, said that although he is a member of law enforcement, he has experienced many incidents of racism from the police. His organization now

receiving districts now to phase out of the transfer program. If accreditation is granted in December, most receiving districts will keep transfer students for the rest of the 2017-18 school year.

Two accredited districts in the region — St. Louis and Ferguson-Florissant — saw their annual performance scores dip below the threshold the state considers to be fully accredited.

A rise above or fall below a benchmark does not automatically mean a

provides training to police departments in bias reduction and alternatives to use of force.

“There’s a lack of trust between law enforcement and the community,” Williams said.

While police techniques in investigating crimes have advanced impressively over his career, Williams said the approach to community relations has not changed at all.

“Race relations with black and brown folks has been stuck in the 1950s,” Williams said.

Answering a question from the audience about whether body cameras would be an effective method of reducing

n “Race relations with black and brown folks has been stuck in the 1950s.”

– Keith Williams, Institute of Justice and Accountability

police violence, the panelists were skeptical.

“How many of our people have we seen murdered on camera?” White asked.

The theme of the conversation was that approaches that do not directly address cultural racism would be, ultimately, ineffective. Messenger, the only white panelist, offered a suggestion for what his demographic could do.

“My role is, in some cases,

district’s accreditation status will change. APR scores are a major factor in how a district is classified, but the state Board of Education makes that the decision.

Pattonville and Orchard Farm school districts both received perfect scores.

As for St. Louis charter schools, North Side Community School earned a perfect score for the second time in a row.

Preclarus Mastery Academy and Carondelet Leadership Academy were among the

in many cases, to speak to white people,” Messenger said. Whether in his column or in one-on-one conversations, Messenger said, one of the biggest differences he can make is attempting to change the minds of white St. Louisans ignorant or indifferent about racism.

In the second panel, Daniel began with a simple question for state Rep. Bruce Franks, who has led many Stockley verdict protests: What do protesters want, and have they seen any progress?

“We only got this demand, because this is what you gotta understand first: Stop killing us,” Franks said. “And no, I haven’t seen any progress as of yet.”

Although Franks frequently criticizes activists for spending too much time talking and not as much time engaged in direct action, his co-panelists were three academics: law professor Kimberly Norwood, social work professor Darrell Hudson (both of Washington University) and Howard University theology professor Alton Pollard.

Daniel asked whether there is still a role for academic debate and discussion in antiracism movements.

“I think that research still has a place,” Norwood said.

Norwood said knowledge and scholarship are still important to the fight against racism because many people lack basic knowledge that is relevant to the conversation –for example, about the origins

worst, scoring at the bottom of the provisional accreditation range.

While charter schools are given APR scores, the state does not accredit them the way it does traditional school districts.

District performance is largely based on student test scores, as well as graduation and attendance rates.

“While there are many, many things that parents should be looking at to make decisions about their schools, we do think this is one tool

of the Civil War.

“It’s not enough, but it is necessary,” Norwood said. Pollard said clergy can serve an important role in the movement, but both he and Franks said not enough clergy have stepped up.

“I would say most clergy are missing in action,” Pollard said.

they can reference that does do a comparison across the state,” education commissioner Margie Vandeven told reporters.

Grade-level subject proficiency test results are up by at least one percent, according to Vandeven. College and career readiness measures have also been inching up, she said.

The performance scores may not be as telling as they appear.

State education officials aren’t factoring in high school algebra and English year-end exams

Franks said the most effective way to get that message out is to continue protesting, including actions that cause economic disruption, such as canceled concerts.

In response to the essential question of the panel’s name, “Protest after Policy: Is it enough?” Franks said no.

English Language Arts Curriculum

Coordinator Catheline Jones speaks with a family at Normandy’s Read with Me festival last spring. The event is one of several initiatives launched to help encourage reading and improve student literacy skills.

because of a problem with the testing vendor. Also, because Missouri has had three different standardized tests issued to students in four years, those scores have not been calculated in due to a state law requiring a buffer year after tests are changed. Follow Ryan and Brent on Twitter: @rpatrickdelaney; @ brentajones. Edited and reprinted with permission from news. stlpublicradio.org.

“We can’t get to the policy part yet,” Franks said, “because so many people don’t even understand why we’re protesting.”

Jessica Karins is an editorial intern for the St. Louis American from Webster University.

City botches response to warehouse fire and health concerns

Rebecca Rivas, reporter for The St. Louis American, is on maternity leave but wrote about her experience navigating the health hazards posed after the warehouse fire at 3937 Park Ave., which began November 15 at about 10 a.m.

In July, I covered the devastating fire at the historic Clemens Mansion in North St. Louis. The residents in the surrounding neighborhood were angry that they couldn’t get any answers from the health department or mayor’s office about the toxic air and materials that resulted from the fire.

In response to the residents’ criticism, the city held a community meeting a week later with several experts and health officials. They promised that next time they would be on the scene immediately to address residents’ concerns. They promised to post updates to their website and be more active on social media and news outlets to spread that message. They promised a hotline. They made lots and lots of promises.

All were broken this week with the warehouse fire in South City at 3937 Park Ave.

Like those in North City, my family experienced the fear of living among hazardous smoke and the frustration of getting no response to our calls and questions about what we should do.

That Wednesday was a beautiful fall day, and I spent several hours outside – like many others in the areas around the fire. It wasn’t until around 4 p.m., while on a walk with my newborn and toddler, that I noticed the smoke in the sky traveling over Tower Grove Park. My husband said he briefly saw on Facebook that there was a fire at a warehouse. But no one said anything about health concerns.

and news outlet for information. No statements from the mayor’s office or health department. No hotlines to call with concerns.

Hands-off approach

Later, after we had already put the boys to bed, we heard that the fire department declared that the smoke was hazardous and everyone should shut off their HVAC systems. The message was brief, and they didn’t say how to get updates or more information.

Do we wake up the boys and head to Grandma’s? Do we stay and just trust their advice that we’re safe if we stay inside?

We checked on every social media

Trying to get information, I texted Koran Addo, the mayor’s spokesman, at 9:53 p.m. on Wednesday, asking, “Is there someone from the health department answering questions about the health concerns of the hazardous smoke?” He responded that he would have Thomas Zink, the mayor’s medical consultant and senior advisor to the health department, call me the next day.

Of course, he thought I meant as a reporter and not a resident. I didn’t have time to clarify.

The next morning I woke up with a huge headache, and the air outside smelled toxic. So we packed up and headed west. My husband spent all morning calling the health department and mayor’s office trying to figure out what was going on. He got no response (and he wouldn’t until Friday

afternoon).

I decided to take Addo’s offer and talk to Zink on Thursday. He finally called me at 1 p.m. In our conversation, it seemed like Zink kept minimizing the health department’s responsibility to be involved – when promises after this summer’s fire were to be more involved next time.

He said the fire department’s air testing had found carbon monoxide in the air, and people should stay inside. And they had no indication that there were any toxic materials inside the warehouse that would release poisonous gas.

“We are confident the contents of the warehouse isn’t going to bring us any surprises,” Zink said.

I asked about the large amounts of citronella candles and Styrofoam, which is toxic when burned. He said they rely on the fire department to do all testing, and their job is to monitor the emergency rooms to see if there is an increase in patients coming in to be treated for symptoms from the fire. And he hadn’t seen an increase.

He said that no other testing was being done. The EPA had reached out to offer its services if necessary, but that the city planned on waiting until

Deputy Fire Chief Steve Kotraba – who briefly took over as interim chief when Fire Chief Sherman George was demoted and retired in 2007 – watched a warehouse fire at 3937 Park Ave. burn on Wednesday, November 15. Many area residents complained of health effects – and difficulty getting answers from city officials.

for Heather Gasama, who would be answering questions from the community.

He called Gasama, and she said that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is now coming in. And maybe we should wait to hear back from her about the EPA results before returning to the city. (The EPA found asbestos in samples of larger material found less than 50 feet from the warehouse in and around building rubble, according to a November 21 update on the health department’s website. No asbestos was found in any of the samples collected Saturday from the residential areas south and southeast of the warehouse, according to the city.)

I know many families with young ones. Why don’t they know this? Why did my husband get Moore’s number – the acting director, someone who would never have a minute to call him back? Why didn’t the mayor urge that Gasama’s number be included in every news broadcast immediately after the fire started?

the fire was put out to bring them in.

I asked why the health department isn’t putting out a phone number for residents to call, as promised after the mansion fire. He said he’d remind the health department director about that.

No more apologies

At that point the fire was still burning, and smoke was still noticeable, based on what people were posting on social media. Nearby residents were posting that they had headaches, sore throats and asthma attacks. These people weren’t going to the emergency room, and no one was telling them that carbon monoxide was found in the air. Nothing came from the mayor on her social media or in a media release about this serious health concern – despite people calling her office.

On Friday, someone at the mayor’s office finally told my husband to call Melba Moore, the acting health department director. He called and left another message. Then he saw that the health department had posted something on their website about the carbon monoxide and a number

Why did the health department wait to bring in the EPA to test until after the fire was out, when people were reporting potentially hazardous debris in their neighborhoods on Thursday? Why was the health department only waiting to see who went to the emergency room, instead of trying to prevent these visits through even the simplest forms of community outreach?

A friend works for an elementary school, and several students there had asthma attacks on Thursday. Because kids were still playing outside on Thursday. Gasama called later on Friday to say the carbon monoxide had cleared, and it was safe to come home. We greatly appreciated her help. Honestly, the last thing I want to be doing during maternity leave is writing articles. But it’s important to my family, like it is to every other family in the city, to feel safe. We want to feel that we can trust our officials to lead us through crisis situations. When you have to make fast decisions that impact the people you love, you want someone there to help you make informed choices. That didn’t happen this summer with the Clemens fire. It didn’t happen again this week.

Photo by Bill Greenblatt / UPI

Under pressure

American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology released updated definitions– the first update in 14 years – for what constitutes hypertension. If the top number, systolic blood pressure, reads from 130 to 139 mm Hg or the bottom number, diastolic blood pressure, reads from 80-89 mmHg, it is considered stage 1 hypertension. Previously, it was 140/90.

Lowered blood pressure guidelines mean hypertension for nearly half of U.S.

By Sandra Jordan Of The St. Louis American

A systolic reading of 130 is the new 140 –and both indicate high blood pressure.

At the scientific sessions of the American Heart Association last week, AHA and the American College of Cardiology released updated definitions and guidelines – the first update in 14 years – for what constitutes hypertension. If the top number, systolic blood pressure, reads from 130 to 139 mm Hg or the bottom number, diastolic blood pressure, reads from

n “Earlier intervention is important for African Americans. Hypertension occurs at a younger age for African Americans than for whites.”

– Kenneth A. Jamerson, M.D.

If you had what was considered prehypertension last week, then you have high blood pressure this week. Prehypertension (formerly a systolic number between 120-

‘We are trying to make it easier for families to eat healthier’

By Sandra Jordan Of The St.

Louis American MetroLink commuters in North St. Louis will soon have a link to healthy meal options, right at the Wellston and North Hanley stops. Bi-State Development and the non-profit grocery store Link Market are launching an 18-month pilot program to provide access to healthy food for transit riders and residents in two areas in North St. Louis County that do not have convenient access to grocery stores or supermarkets. The new Link Market food kiosks will offer fresh fruits, vegetables, milk, eggs, bread, meat, cheese and other healthy household staples for sale. Meal bundles will be sold, complete with all of the ingredients and a recipe card, to make healthy

Open enrollment and its discontents

By Michelle Singletary Washington Post

I hate open enrollment season.

I know I’m not supposed to say this, but it’s true. The long list of benefit options can be flat-out overwhelming. Which health care choice is right? Do I just go with the cheapest option? What’s the right amount of life insurance? Make a wrong move and you’re stuck with your decision for a year, unless you have a life-changing event like the birth of a child.

Not surprisingly, many workers find open enrollment frustrating, according to a survey by Namely, an HR software company. So what bothers people the most?

They don’t like the constant changes in plans from year to year, the overly complicated material they’re given to make their choices, and the limited time they have to make their decisions.

Half of employees said they would like at least a month to make selections. People also don’t feel their company’s human resources department can help navigate the process. So they turn to co-workers or family members for advice.

To be fair, many companies do make a concerted effort to reduce confusion.

Last year, the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans looked at how companies communicate about open enrollment. Many firms said they beefed up their budgets to educate employees about their benefits. They mail material, send emails or create dedicated websites.

Despite these efforts, 80 percent of organizations said that most employees don’t even read the information they send.

A report by Aflac found that 83 percent of workers spend less than an hour researching their workplace benefits. People hate the process so much that they said they would rather file their taxes or hold a screaming baby.

The overwhelming majority of plan participants just stick with what they had in previous years.

“The biggest mistake people make in open enrollment is to choose the cheapest plan

See SINGLETARY, A11

“We are trying to make it easier for families to

healthier, so all the ingredients you need to make the recipe are included,” said Jeremy Goss, founder and president of Link Market.

n “Twenty-seven percent of St. Louis County residents live in a food desert, meaning they do not have easy access to a grocery store.”

– Rhonda Smythe, Missouri Foundation for Health

See FOOD, A11 Bi-State, Link Market to offer fresh food options for North County transit riders meals at home. “We are trying to

Photo by Wiley Price

Michelle Singletary

PRESSURE

Continued from A10 guideline categories. Those readings are now categorized as either Elevated (120-129 and less than 80) or Stage I hypertension (130-139 or 80-89). Readings of 140/90 mm Hg are now classified as Stage 2 hypertension.

Previously, about one-third of Americans were estimated to have hypertension. Under the new guidelines, nearly half of the U.S. has high blood pressure. The impact is expected to be greatest among younger people, the AHA said. The prevalence of high blood pressure is expected to triple among men under age 45, and double among women under age 45, according to the report.

Jin-Moo Lee, M.D., president of the Board of Directors for the St. Louis Chapter of the AHA and head of the Stroke Center at Washington University and Barnes Jewish Hospital, said evidence prompted the change.

“The reason for this adjustment was there was a very extensive review of the evidence in the literature, and all of the accumulative evidence suggests that at the lower blood pressure there is still risk for the consequences of high blood pressure,” Dr. Lee said. “Even at that lower 130/80, there is still that risk of heart disease and consequences of chronic hypertension.”

The AHA says 59 percent of African-American men and 56 percent of AfricanAmerican women have high blood pressure.

“Earlier intervention is important for African Americans,” said Kenneth A. Jamerson, M.D., a guideline author, cardiologist and professor of cardiovascular medicine with the University of Michigan Health System at www.heart.org.

“Hypertension occurs at a younger age for African Americans than for whites. By the time the 140/90 is achieved, their prolonged exposure to elevated blood pressure has a potential for worse outcome.”

AHA reports that heart disease also develops earlier in African Americans and high blood pressure plays a role in more than 50 percent of all deaths from heart disease.

African Americans have a higher rate of heart attacks, sudden cardiac arrest, heart

FOOD

Continued from A10

n “All of the accumulative evidence suggests that at the lower blood pressure there is still risk for the consequences of high blood pressure.”

– Jin-Moo Lee, M.D.

failure and strokes than do white Americans. In addition, the African-American risk for end-stage renal disease is 4.2 times greater than whites, which often requires regular dialysis to filter the blood to maintain survival and the need for kidney transplants. The new, lower and more aggressive blood pressure guidelines are not such a bad thing, Dr. Lee said, because it allows interventions to start

sooner. While conversations must take place between doctors and patients with high blood pressure to bring readings in line and cardiovascular disease risk under control, the earliest solutions are not necessarily in a pill bottle.

“When people are defined as being hypertensive, not all of them will be required to take medications. The suggestion is that only those who are at high

risk for heart disease should take medicines,” Dr. Lee said.

The guidelines recommend medication for Stage I hypertension only if a patient has already had a cardiovascular event such as a heart attack or stroke, or if the patient is at high risk of heart attack or stroke based on age, the presence of diabetes, chronic kidney disease or risk of plaque in the arteries.

Dr. Lee said for persons

who are at the borderline of high blood pressure can make lifestyle changes to lower their risk.

“Some of these lifestyle interventions include physical activity – aerobic exercise as well as other types of exercise, healthy diet, weight loss, reduced sodium intake, moderate alcohol intake and enhanced intake of dietary potassium,” he said. Lifestyle changes can help

persons currently taking blood pressure medicine reduce or eventually eliminate the need for medicine in the long run.

“Medicine alone won’t do the trick,” Dr. Lee said. “You really need every trick up your sleeve, so that includes the lifestyle changes as well as medication if you are at a higher level of high blood pressure.’

For more information, visit http://bit.ly/2yyFtZs. make the recipe are included,” said Jeremy Goss, founder and president of Link Market. “We will package it, from salt and pepper up to the protein.” Goss said costs for the meal bundles will be in the $10-$14 range.

“These kiosks have the potential to make a tremendous impact to the communities we serve, ensuring that more people have easy access to healthier foods and a healthier lifestyle,” said John Nations, president and CEO of Bi-State Development.

SINGLETARY

Continued from A10

without making certain it is the right fit for them,” said Carolyn McClanahan, a physician turned certified financial planner.

“For example, some plans include the requirement that the deductible must be met before prescription drug costs are paid, so if you have a $6,000 deductible, no drugs will be paid until you hit that number.

“By partnering with the Missouri Foundation for Health, we are able to take advantage of the region’s transit assets to provide a valuable and much-needed resource to address food insecurity,” said John Wagner, director of the Bi-State Development Research Institute.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Access Resource Atlas identifies many areas in the St. Louis region, particularly in North County, as food desert locations

The Link Market food kiosk pilot program is the result of a partnership with the Bi-State Development Research Institute, a non-profit enterprise of Bi-State Development, and the Missouri Foundation for Health, which is funding the pilot program through a nearly $584,000 grant.

People who are on expensive medications will want to make sure they choose a plan that will cover drug costs early.”

McClanahan says the most important thing when picking a health care plan is to make sure your preferred doctors and hospitals are in the network.

Also, be sure you understand your pharmacy coverage and medical deductibles.

“If you are a low health care user, it might be OK to buy a cheaper plan with high deductibles, but remember that you must have money set aside

where there is a lack of access to fresh, healthy foods. A significant number of residents of North County live more than a mile from the nearest grocery store, and that is an even bigger issue for individuals and families who do not have access to an automobile.

“Twenty-seven percent of St. Louis County residents live in a food desert, meaning they do not have easy access to a grocery store,” said Rhonda Smythe, program officer with the Missouri Foundation for Health.

By placing the Link Market food kiosks at the North Hanley and Wellston Transit Centers, thousands of transit riders will be able to access the kiosks as part of their regular commute. The kiosks are

to meet the deductible if you become ill,” she said.

Seniors who have to make their Medicare choices by December 7 aren’t any more enthusiastic about researching their options. In a survey titled “The Cost of Complacency,” WellCare Health Plans found that seniors are more likely to comparison shop for groceries, gas, cable or vacations than take the time to figure out which Medicare plan is right for them.

“The emergence of a new epidemic among seniors – an

open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday, and will accept cash, credit or EBT payments.

Goss said Link Market is currently in discussions to participate in the food DoubleBucks program and hopes to accept them in the near future.

“When you consider all of the neighborhoods connected to our transit centers by MetroLink and MetroBus, suddenly thousands of residents and transit riders from all across the region will have access to healthier food options,” said Ray Friem, executive director of Metro Transit.

Link Market is partnering with local farmers and community gardens to offer

epidemic of apathy when it comes to Medicare coverage –could have a significant impact on the financial health of seniors,” said Michael Polen, a WellCare executive vice president.

Looking at Medicare options is so loathed that some survey participants said they would rather get a colonoscopy.

If you’re a senior who is overwhelmed by the choices, go to medicare.gov and search for “Medicare Plan Finder.” Using your ZIP code, you can get personalized help in

locally sourced food grown within a 100-mile radius of St. Louis. The program has also partnered with the St. Louis Agency on Employment (SLATE) to fill full- and parttime Link Market positions, and with the St. Louis Area Foodbank, which is providing space for food storage and administrative functions, and refrigeration. The St. Louis Area Foodbank has promised that unused food will not go to waste.

The Bi-State Development Research Institute is also partnering with the University of Missouri Extension to provide nutrition education to Link Market customers and Metro transit riders. Nutrition specialists at the University of Missouri Extension will

comparing plans. You’ll need to set aside some time for this, because there are a lot of questions. If you’re not good at doing things online, that’s fine. Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

Seniors and their family members or caregivers can also find free local help -- in-person or on the phone -- through State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), which are in 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Go to shiptacenter.org and select

provide education sessions twice a month at the Wellston and North Hanley Transit Centers to support the food kiosk program. Customers will be able to ask questions and learn more about the importance of proper nutrition and how to incorporate fruits and vegetables into their diets while on a budget.

“This is the type of positive investment we like to see in St. Louis County,” said Hazel Erby, St. Louis County Councilwoman. “Everything we can do to provide new resources and make healthy living as convenient as possible for our residents is a real plus.” Currently, the project is working out permits with St. Louis County.

your location. You’ll be taken to a page where you can call a local SHIP or get a link for the local program’s website. I don’t like doing my taxes either, and I certainly didn’t think getting a colonoscopy was fun. But you’ve got to push through these things. Open enrollment choices are too important to let apathy and/ or confusion prevent you from reading what your company sends or asking for help. Just do it.

Business

New mixed-income housing breaks ground in the Ville

Partly funded by low-income tax housing credit just cut by governor’s commission

By Jessica Karins

For The St. Louis American

In the Ville neighborhood of North St. Louis, eight developers and community leaders broke ground on the new St. Ferdinand Homes II housing development Wednesday, November 15. On the cold, muddy morning, they put on hard hats and used gold shovels to remove the first scoops of earth from the future construction site. The development will be home to 36 new and 7 fully renovated apartments and townhouses, part of a Northside Community Housing project to replace or rehab abandoned buildings and vacant lots in the neighborhood. The apartments will be mixed-income, with units for rent

n “I really think it’s needed in the community, because there’s so many abandoned buildings.”

– Nicole Grant

restricted by income, and will be constructed by E.M. Harris Construction, with Rise Community Development serving as development consultant. The development broke ground at 2505 N. Sarah St., currently a vacant lot.

Michael Burns, president of Northside

Community Housing, said he was gratified as a former resident of the Ville neighborhood to see efforts go towards revitalizing the area.

“It’s really been a beautiful occasion to return back to this community and to watch it flourish,” Burns said. “We’ve got great plans for doing great things in St. Louis, in this Ville community.”

Samuel L. Moore II, alderman of the 4th Ward, where the development will be constructed, said he was optimistic that the construction efforts will help revitalize the area, which has low incomes and high crime rates, in addition to a large number of buildings standing

B6

Normandy entrepreneurship students place in national competition

American staff

After their second place finish at the regional competition, Deimon McKinney and Raheem Larry moved on to New York City to pitch their business idea at the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) national competition. And while they did place among the top 12 contestants, the Normandy High School sophomores also came away from the competition with a renewed determination to take their product to market, a more confident and thorough business pitch – and that trip to New York City. Their business idea is the Double Backer Packer, a backpack with two full-sized compartments designed for student-athletes to carry their books and school work in one section, and their athletic gear in the other.

McKinney and Larry earned the trip to New York after taking second place in the regional NFTE competition in May. They were freshmen at the time.

McKinney, along with Normandy Superintendent Charles Pearson, and entrepreneurship teacher Obinno Coley, will be featured in a segment of KETC/Channel 9’s

Reginald Harris was promoted to executive assistant U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Missouri. Harris, a St. Louis native, has been a federal prosecutor in St. Louis since 2002. This role will oversee focus on Project Safe Neighborhoods, and opioid initiative, and civil rights investigations. Before joining the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Harris was an associate at Thompson Coburn LLP.

Valerie E. Patton, senior vice president, Inclusion and Talent Attraction at the St. Louis Regional Chamber and executive director of the St. Louis Business Diversity Initiative, was recently elected to serve on the Fontbonne University Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees serves as the executive leadership of the school.

Darnell M. Cage is a Minneapolis associate in the Intellectual Property and Patents Groups of law firm Fredrikson & Byron. Cage provides intellectual property counseling and helps clients minimize their patent infringement risk. He received his J.D. with a concentration in intellectual property, business transactional law and entrepreneurship law from the Saint Louis University School of Law.

Jennifer Fowler was inducted into the Griffith’s Leadership Society for Women, which connects diverse and distinguished Mizzou student leaders and alumnae. The junior from Berkeley is a journalism major with minors in leadership and public service. Fowler is also executive director of the MU Women’s Leadership Conference, a Teach for America campaign coordinator and site manager for the Desire 2 Aspire Mentorship Program.

Solomon L. Thurman of St. Louis is the Individual Artist honoree of the Missouri Arts Council’s 2018 Missouri Arts Awards. For more than three decades, Solomon has been bringing art, history, and community together through paintings, drawings, and sculptures that tell stories of the African diaspora in America, drawn from historical events and his own family’s past.

Fay Fleming received the Vanguard Award from the TransComm committee of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials for innovative contributions to the transportation industry. Fleming is communications director for the Missouri Department of Transportation. She joined MoDOT’s executive staff in 2014, with expertise in research, brand strategy, public relations, community engagement and social media. On the move? Congratulations! Send your good professional news and a color headshot to cking@stlamerican. com

Reginald Harris

Darnell M. Cage

Fay Fleming

Solomon L. Thurman

Valerie E. Patton

Photo by Jessica Karins

Jennifer Fowler

See VILLE,

Representatives of Northside Community Housing and Rise Community Development and city officials broke ground on a new mixed-income housing development in the Ville at 2505 N. Sarah St., currently a vacant lot, on Wednesday, November 15. The development is partly funded by a low-income tax housing credit that was cut by Governor Eric Greitens’ housing commission two days later.

Deimon McKinney (center) and Raheem Larry (second from right) take a break with their families while in New York City for the NFTE national competition. The students are sophomores at Normandy High School. Their product is the Double Backer Packer, a backpack with two full-sized compartments designed for student-athletes to carry their books in one section and athletic gear in the other.

Tips for hiring a reliable contractor to repair a furnace

Better Business Bureau

With winter on the way, the last thing anyone wants is for the furnace to stop working. But when it does, you need a reliable contractor – and fast.

“Good HVAC contractors are in high demand when temperatures reach extremes, so you shouldn’t be surprised if you can’t get a broken furnace fixed immediately during the winter season,” said Michelle Corey, St. Louis Better Business Bureau’s president and CEO.

n “Most importantly, you need to research companies before you sign a contract for repairs or replacement.”

– Michelle Corey

“Most importantly, you need to research companies before you sign a contract for repairs or replacement.”

Better Business Bureau is a great resource for finding trustworthy contractors. Consumers can find dozens of BBB Business

Profiles on heating and air conditioning contractors at bbb.org. They also can browse BBB’s Accredited Business Directory for HVAC businesses that have pledged to uphold BBB Standards for Trust. BBB Business Profiles include a rating from A+ to F and show whether a company has complaints and how the company responded to the complaints. Many contractors also have customer reviews that show how they’ve delivered service to customers.

Last year, BBB received 119 complaints about the heating industry. This year, BBB has received 92 complaints about the heating industry so far. The pattern of consumer complaints has revealed issues with billing, collections, warranties and satisfaction

• Research the company’s background and

Compare

and

Nasheed attacks Greitens for cutting low-income housing tax credit

With Missouri Lt.

• Review warranty coverage. Find out if the company offers any type of warranty or guarantee. Make certain you understand the terms and conditions of the coverage. Also, be sure to check the warranty on your current air conditioning unit to determine whether any repairs or replacements may be covered.

• Ask about energy efficiency. Many new air conditioning units are manufactured to be more energy efficient than older units. Look for the ENERGY STAR label to find out about products that may cost a little more up front, but save you in energy costs over time. Some models may be eligible for a tax credit. Ask your HVAC contractor to verify tax credit eligibility and provide the Manufacturer Certification Statement for the equipment you plan to purchase. For more information, visit https://www.bbb.org/stlouis.

American staff

On Friday, November 17, Gov. Eric Greitens and Attorney General Josh Hawley partnered with four members of the Missouri Housing Development Commission to eliminate state tax credits for low-income housing in 2018. With a last-minute, unannounced appointment of a new commissioner by Greitens, the credits were eliminated by

a vote with the bare minimum of support needed for approval.

“Eric Greitens and Josh Hawley’s cold-hearted move to hurt some of the most vulnerable Missourians is the worst kind of politics, and

they should be ashamed of themselves,” state Senator Jamilah Nasheed (D-St. Louis) said.

“Seniors, veterans, people with disabilities and the working poor depend on these tax credits to provide the housing they need to live with dignity. The last-minute, political stacking of the board, right before the holidays, is not just heartless – it’s irresponsible. Once again, Gov. Greitens’s reckless politics will cost our state millions in federal funds.”

Jamilah Nasheed

This past September, Greitens appointed former state Senator Jason Crowell to the Missouri Housing Development Commission. Although the Missouri Senate has not yet confirmed Crowell, he put forward an amendment that would eliminate state tax credits for low-income housing in 2018.

NORMANDY

continued from page B1

Living St. Louis program. McKinney, Pearson and Coley were interviewed by veteran journalist Ruth Ezell at the entrepreneurial hub T-Rex in downtown St. Louis.

Governor Mike Parson and state Treasurer Eric Schmidt opposing the elimination, the board would have been one vote short of the six needed to approve the Crowell Amendment. However, this morning a new commissioner, Alan Simpson, was sworn in after a lastminute, unannounced appointment by Greitens. With this new gubernatorial appointment, and with Greitens and Hawley voting in favor, the Crowell amendment passed, six to two.

The Missouri Housing Development Commission was created in 1969 by the General Assembly. The commission administers, and provides financing for, the construction of affordable housing. It also provides funding for home loans to qualified, first-time buyers through a network of certified, private mortgage

(Larry was unavailable for the interview.)

In his interview with Ezell, Coley said witnessing the process that led to the trip to New York is what he hopes sticks with these budding entrepreneurs.

“The best part of these young men having this opportunity is that it

n “Seniors, veterans, people with disabilities and the working poor depend on these tax credits to provide the housing they need to live with dignity.”

– state Senator Jamilah Nasheed

lenders.

“Governor Greitens continues to think he has to stand on the necks of vulnerable Missourians to look like he stands for anything,” Nasheed said. “Missourians are sick and tired of Gov. Greitens targeting the poor and working class instead of finding real solutions, and I will continue to fight this governor’s failed leadership every step of the way.”

helped them develop an entrepreneurial mindset,” Coley explained. “The students have an idea. If they can see it, they can work it, plan it and see it through.”

The NFTE segment on Living St. Louis is scheduled to air on KETC/Channel 9 in January.

n “It just feels like he’s been blackballed out of the NFL. So, I definitely do not respect that.”

– LeBron James on Colin Kaepernick

Sports

HBCUs

CBC defeats Blue Springs to win Class 6 state title

For the second consecutive season, the Missouri Class 6 state championship trophy in football will reside in St. Louis.

CBC defeated Blue Springs 31-14 to win the state title last Saturday night at Missouri State University in Springfield. It marked the second state title in the past four years for the Cadets, who finished the season with a 13-1 record.

Kirkwood defeated Blue Springs for the state championship last season. Blue Springs advanced to the state championship game with a victory at CBC, so the Cadets were able to gain a measure of revenge on the state’s biggest stage last weekend.

Standout running back Bryan Bradford did most of the damage on offense for the Cadets has he rushed for 123 yards on 29 carries and three touchdowns on short runs of 2,4 and 6 yards. The Cadets defense did a tremendous job of shutting down a potent Blue Springs team that had been averaging 35 points a game during the postseason.

Senior Lonnell Boyd, Jr. led the defensive charge with five solo tackles and a total 12 stops. Boyd also caught seven passes for 60 yards on offense. Larry Williams added six solo tackles while the Cadets also corralled two interceptions on the evening.

The Cadets overall talent and depth were also on display as they played without All-American receiver Kamryn Babb, who missed the entire season with a knee injury and top linebacker M.J. Anderson, also missed the season as well with an injury. Nebraska recruit Cameron Brown also missed the last two weeks with an injury, but the Cadets continued to march on to the state championship.

*Pattonville advances to Class 5

It was just weeks ago when Mizzou basketball was the toast of the town. The hardwood Tigers boasted an influx of talented newbies, most notably all-world freshman Michael Porter Jr. and incoming Coach Cuonzo Martin Mizzou hoops fans had visions of statues, NCAA brackets and championship banners dancing in their heads. Meanwhile, the Mizzou football team was down in the dumps. After a harder-than-expected 72-43 victory in the season opener versus Missouri State, Missouri was outscored 210 to 92 in five consecutive, and embarrassing, losses. Sitting at a measly 1-5, patience was wearing thin for Barry Odom and his bad news Tigers. Fans were calling for the coach’s head after watching the terrible team bumble, stumble and fumble its way through game after game.

What a difference a month can make.

Fast-forward to the present day and the widespread panic has shifted to Martin’s Tiger team due to Porter’s strange, secretive injury saga and a tooth-and-nail battle (at home) with Division II powerhouse punching bag Emporia State. Outside of Mizzou Arena, the football Tigers have managed to turn things around significantly, winning five consecutive games to become bowl eligible for the first time since 2014. According to ESPN, Missouri is only the second team in SEC history to become bowl eligible after a 1-5 start. So how exactly did Odom manage to plug up the holes in the sinking ship that was the 2017 season and get the Tigers back afloat? First off, we must acknowledge the change in schedule difficulty. The first half of the season featured

Earl Austin Jr.

Ishmael

Sistrunk

Photo by Wiley Price Missouri Tigers RB Ish Witter has been a key to the Tigers’

Photo by Kayla Wolf / Columbia Missourian

SportS EyE

With Alvin A. Reid

HBCUs capping historic football season; Hampton makes major move

North Carolina A&T’s historic season continued this week when the Aggies won the outright MEAC Conference title with an 8-0 league record and moved to 11-0.

A victory in the Celebration Bowl, which will be televised at noon Saturday, Dec. 16 on ABC (Channel 30) from Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, would complete A&T’s first perfect season in 18 years. It would be the first-ever undefeated season by a MEAC team since the league started in 1971.

The Aggies topped North Carolina Central 24-10 on Nov. 18 to stay perfect and gain a bit of revenge against the team that had defeated them three consecutive seasons. Those respective losses cost A&T the outright conference title each year, a playoff berth in 2014 and a Celebration Bowl appearance and undefeated season last year.

for Grambling. Because of a possible NCAA playoff berth, the Tigers might not be N.C. A&T’s opponent in the Celebration Bowl.

The Top 10 As the HBCU football season nears its close, the Top 10 teams according to the BOXTOROW HBCU FCS Football Coaches poll are: 1. NC A&T (11-0) 2. Grambling (9-1) 3. Alcorn State (7-3) 4. Southern 7-3 5. Howard (7-3) 6. BethuneCookman (6-4) 7. N.C. Central (7-3) 8. Tennessee State (6-4) 9. Prairie View (4-5) 10. Hampton 5-5.

A&T coach Rod Broadway, who should be on somebody’s Power 5 assistantcoach-to-hire list, called the 2017 season “special.”

“To end the regular-season season 11-0 I think says a lot about our coaching staff and the job they have done,” Broadway told HBCUsports. com.

“I think we have a great coaching staff and of course we have some great players. One thing about coaching is you don’t have time to enjoy it as its happening.”

Grambling State University (9-1) plays Southern (7-3) in the annual Thanksgiving weekend showdown on Saturday (Nov. 25) at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. A win would result in a SWAC championship

Historic move for Hampton Howard defeated archrival Hampton 20-17 on Nov. 18, but the biggest news of the week was the announcement that Hampton is leaving the MEAC to join the Big South Conference.

Eugene Marshall Jr. Hampton athletic director, said his school “will always be a historically black institution and will continue to play MEAC schools.”

“I believe the move to the Big South will enhance our profile and our visibility around the nation. And that will enhance our revenue,” he said.

Big South Commissioner Kyle Kallander called Hampton’s move “a big day for the Big South.”

“We have always been impressed by Hampton’s academics and athletics accomplishments … The Big South is a better conference with Hampton – athletically, academically, and in providing

outstanding opportunities for our student-athletes.”

Hampton will join

Tennessee State (Ohio Valley Conference) as the only HBCU schools at the Division I level to not participate in the MEAC or SWAC.

Elliott overseas, Jones out his mind

After deciding to drop further appeals, Ezekiel Elliott is continuing his six-game suspension at an undisclosed location overseas. His absence, plus key injuries to left tackle Tyron Smith and linebacker Sean Lee have been devastating to the 5-5 Dallas Cowboys. But let’s go back to the week of Oct. 1 when owner Jerry Jones publicly announced that any of his players who did not stand for the national anthem or disrespected

the flag would be benched. The Cowboys are 3-4 since that time, and will probably lose to the San Diego Chargers on Thanksgiving afternoon. Also, Jones probably cajoled Papa John’s founder and CEO John Schnatter to make the ridiculous statement that pizza sales are down because of anthem protests. Jones owns more than 100 of the franchises. The company sent a flunky out to retract Schnatter’s “divisive” comments, apologize and say via press release, “(Papa John’s) believes in the right to protest inequality and support the players’ movement to create a new platform for change. We also believe together, as Americans, we should honor our anthem. There is a way to do both.”

Too late. Neo-Nazis and KKK members quickly selected Papa John’s as “The Official Pizza of the AltRight,” thanks to Schnatter’s big mouth. Papa John’s stock price slid 13 percent between his statement and Nov. 14. You know what they say karma can be, Jerry and John.

Alvin A. Reid was honored as the 2017 “Best Sports Columnist – Weeklies” in the Missouri Press Association’s Better Newspaper Contest. He is a panelist on the Nine Network program, Donnybrook, is a weekly contributor to “The Charlie Tuna Show” on KFNS and can also be heard on Frank Cusumano’s “The Press Box.” His Twitter handle is #aareid1.

Alvin A. Reid

Hampton is leaving the MEAC to join the Big South Conference.

High school athletes announce college choices

Some of the area’s top football prospects in the tremendous Class of 2018 have started to make their collegiate choices known.

The latest player to make his commitment was Chaminade College Prep lineman

Trevor Trout, who gave a pledge to USC this week. The 6’3” 290pound Trout is one of the nation’s top rated defensive tackles. He gave his commitment shortly after his weekend visit to the school.

Lutheran North standout Ronnie Perkins is headed to

Oklahoma University. The 6’4” 260-pound Perkins just completed a stellar career in which he led the Crusaders to the Class 2 state semifinals and a 12-1 record. Perkins finished a dominant senior season with 66 solo tackles, 10 assists and 15 quarterback sacks.

Eureka High standout running back Hassan Haskins gave a commitment to the University of Michigan. The 6’2” 210-pound workhorse back enjoyed a tremendous senior year in leading the

InsIde sports

With Earl Austin Jr.

Wildcats to a 12-1 record and a berth in the Class 6 state semifinals. Haskins finished the season with 2,197 yards on 255 carries and 31 touchdowns. He averaged nearly nine yards a carry.

Courtney Ramey to miss 6-8 weeks

Webster Groves basketball standout Courtney Ramey will miss the first six to eight weeks of the season after

Boston Celtics point guard Kyrie Irving has put himself in the mix for league MVP by leading the Celtics to a league-best 16-2 start.

CLUTCH

Continued from B3

course of the team’s five game winning streak, the Mizzou defense has helds its opponents to just 98.4 yards rushing per game. The defensive line has also made plenty of big plays, such as Terry Beckner Jr.’s game-sealing interception versus Vandy. On the offensive side of the football, there’s been no bigger catalyst than QB Drew Lock Lock leads the NCAA in touchdown completions with 38 on

PREP

Continued from B3

The Pattonville Pirates continued their great postseason run as they advanced to Saturday’s Class 5 ShowMe Bowl against Staley at Faurot Field on the campus of the University of Missouri. Kickoff is at 7 p.m. The Pirates have knocked off defending state champion Vianney and defending state runner-up Fort Zumwalt North en route to getting to their second state title game appearance. The Pirates are led by senior quarterback Kaleb Eleby, who is a four-year starter. The Western Michigan commit has passed for 2,421 yards and 22 touchdowns and only six interceptions. Senior David Ellison has been a stalwart two-way performer all season. He has rushed for 945 yards and 16 touchdowns on offense while recording 109 tackles and 10 interceptions on defense. Charles Shelton IV is the leading receiver with 34 catches for 672 yards and 12 touchdowns.

Pattonville will face a Staley team that has been dominating during the postseason. Staley has averaged an impressive 47 points a game in their four postseason victories.

*Ladue to face Webb City in Class 4 Final

Ladue will be face perennial state power Webb City for the Class 4 state championship on Friday night at the University of Missouri.

Kickoff is a 7 p.m. The Rams (12-2) defeated Parkway Central 31-14 in the state semifinals last Friday

the season, compared to just 10 interceptions. He sits 11th in passing yards with 3,247. If it wasn’t for the Tigers terrible start to the season, Lock might be in the conversation for the Heisman trophy. He’s certainly shooting up on NFL draft boards with each passing week.

The Tigers certainly hope to see the gunslinger return next year for his senior season. However, if he continues his stellar play and the Tigers team wins its next two games, the calls from agents and NFL GMs could become too difficult to resist.

The quarterback play isn’t

night. The Rams are led by senior quarterback Jordan Jackson, who has passed for 1,753 yards and 20 touchdowns while rushing for 380 yards and six touchdowns. Ladue has not lost with Jackson at quarterback this season as he missed the first three weeks with an injury. Ladue was 1-2 without Jackson.

Running back Andrew Hunt has rushed for 1,108 yards and 13 touchdowns while junior Dale Chesson is a big-play receiver who has 44 catches for 899 yards and 13 touchdowns.

B.J. Buchannon leads a strong

the only highlight of the Mizzou offense during its winning streak. The run game has been impressive also. Senior RB Ish Witter has been tearing it up lately. In addition to having an awesome first name, in three Nov. games, Witter has racked up 401 yards and a whopping average of 7.0 yards per carry. Freshman Larry Roundtree III has added 291 yards during the same stretch, on 6.1 yards per carry.

Of course, if the quarterback and running backs are playing well, it has to mean that the offensive line is doing its job as well. Overall, the Tigers have

Ladue defensive unit with 102 tackles, including 72 solos while 6’7” 250-pound junior defensive lineman Moses Okpala has recorded nine quarterback sacks.

In Webb City, Ladue will be facing one of the great dynasties in Missouri high school football. Webb City will be seeking a 14th state championship on Friday night.

*Lamar stops Lutheran North title bid

In a battle of powerhouse small-school programs, Lamar edged Lutheran North 7-6 in a defensive slugfest to advance to this weekend’s state cham-

suffering a wrist injury last week in a preseason jamboree, hosted by the Statesmen. The 6’4” Ramey is ranked among the top guards in the country after leading the Statesmen to the Class 5 state championship last season. As a junior, Ramey averaged 20 points, eight rebounds and six assists in leading Webster Groves to a 29-2 record and the state title.

gone from a listless, lethargic team to a confident, swag-filled squad in just a few weeks. Meanwhile, Odom has gone from the hot seat to hot shot.

The Tigers will finish out the regular season this Friday versus the 4-7 Arkansas Razorbacks. With another victory, the Tigers could be headed to the Liberty Bowl or the TaxSlayer Bowl.

Kyrie and LeBron on collision course

Before the season began, everybody presumed that the Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics would battle for Eastern Conference supremacy. Then Celtics forward Gordon Hayward was lost for the season with a nasty ankle injury and many people downgraded Boston’s chances. Meanwhile in Cleveland, LeBron James looked as if he was playing with a team full of drunken relatives right after Thanksgiving dinner.

You know who I’m talking about - the uncle, or older cousin that you call uncle, that swears he was All-City back in ‘85. The same one who yells out the window, “Don’t make me come out there and show you my moves,” but never seems to move too far from the couch. James was playing with him, actually four of him. The Cavs lost five out of six games after a 2-0 start, including four in a row.

I always caution people to be patient when dealing with teams with large roster turnover. It almost always takes time for the new acquisitions to gel, even when the incoming players are better than the outgoing ones. It happened when James went to Miami. It hap-

pionship game in Columbia. Lamar will now play for a seventh consecutive state championship after winning their 48th consecutive game. Neither team could score for the first quarters, but then traded touchdowns midway through the final stanza. The difference in the game was a blocked extra point by Lamar which enabled them to preserve the victory. Lutheran North finished its tremendous season with a 12-1 record.

Local standout headed to DePaul

Two of the area’s top girls’ senior basketball players are both headed to Chicago for their collegiate careers as guards Sonya Morris of Incarnate Word Academy and Amaya Stovall of Parkway North signed with DePaul University. The 5’8” Morris averaged 15 points a game in leading the Red Knights to the Class 4 state championship last season. The 5’7” Stovall averaged 12 points, four rebounds and four assists in leading the Vikings to the state quarterfinals as a junior in 2018.

pened again when he returned to Cleveland. Now, both the Celtics and the Cavs are back into their grooves. The Cavs have won five straight games and sit in fourth place in the Eastern Conference. Behind the strength of the best coach in basketball, Brad Stevens, the Celtics have proven to be an exception to the rule regarding rocky starts for teams with a high roster turnover. The Celtics have rattled off 16 consecutive victories after an 0-2 start. The streak includes a 92-88 victory over the Golden State Warriors.

Kirkwood High pair headed to major colleges

Standout guard Jayla Everett of Kirkwood High has signed with New Mexico University. The 5’10” guard is one of the top returning players in the state of Missouri. As a junior, Everett averaged 17 points a game in helping the Pioneers to the Class 5 state championship. Everett’s new teammate at Kirkwood, guard Jaidah Stewart is headed to Minnesota. The 5’9” Stewart transferred to Kirkwood after three years at Webster Groves. As a junior, Stewart averaged 18.9 points and 6.9 rebounds a game.

Some will call me crazy for anointing Stevens as the best coach in the league when there’s a guy named Gregg Popovich roaming the sidelines. Still, the Celtics have improved every year of Stevens’ tenure and it appears that trend will continue, even without Hayward. Now Stevens just needs some postseason success to cement his status. Kyrie Irving is trying his hardest to make that happen. Irving has put himself in the mix in the race for MVP alongside James, Giannis Antetokounmpo James Harden and Stephen Curry The fact that both James and Irving are both in the MVP conversation as well as leading their teams as the only true contenders in the East, means that exciting days are ahead.

Follow Ishmael and In the Clutch on Twitter @ IshmaelSistrunk

the st. louIs AmerIcAn college Athletes of the Week

Dymond Guilford

The freshman standout from Lancaster, California is off to an excellent start to her collegiate career. In her first competition, she was an individual champion at the Lady Warrior Classic in Fremont, Nebraska in the 170-pound weight class. Guilford

The senior guard from Pattonville High in St. Louis was named the Player of the Week in the Great Lakes Valley Conference.

The 6’2” Longmeyer averaged 24.5

Missouri Baptist – Wrestling ries last week. Longmeyer scored a careerhigh 25 points, grabbed 10 rebounds and three assists in a victory over Robert Morris. He followed up with 24 points, seven rebounds, three assists and two steals in a victory over HarrisStowe.

prep Athlete of the Week David Ellison Jr. Pattonville – Football followed up by winning five of her six matches and finishing third at the Missouri Valley Invitational in Marshall, Missouri. Guilford was a standout prep performer at Eastside High School, where she was a CIF state champion at 170 pounds as a senior in 2017.

in Columbia at 7 p.m. The senior standout enjoyed a dominant performance in the Pirates’ victory over Fort Zumwalt North in the Class 5 state semifinals. The 5’10”, 170-pound Ellison rushed for 174 yards on 25 carries and three touchdowns in Pattonville’s 26-7 victory. On defense, Ellison also had nine tackles and one

interception. For the season, Ellison has rushed for 945 yards and scored 16 touchdowns. At defensive back, he has recorded 109 total tackles along with 10 interceptions. Pattonville will face Staley for the Class 5 state championship on Saturday

Trevor Trout

MOKAN awards Ygrene for helping minority businesses

MOKAN Construction

Contractors Assistance Center gave its 2017 Community Partner Award to Ygrene Energy Fund for its efforts to connect minority businesses with access to stronger energycontract job opportunities, particularly its communitybased partnership with

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“As long as we continue to respect leadership and work together, this will turn around,” Moore said. April Ford Griffin, the executive director of the Affordable Housing Commission, the city government agency that promotes the development of affordable and accessible housing, also spoke at the event. Griffin said the project will be a step towards addressing several

MOKAN and the city’s cleanenergy financing program, Set the PACE St. Louis “This partnership and expanded inclusion initiative will provide an opportunity for minority and women-owned businesses and workers to gain access to financing for energy efficiency projects, expanding

social problems, including homelessness, which ultimately stem from an income disparity between black and white neighborhoods.

“Housing should be a right in this country, and it’s essential to our stability,” Griffin said. “We cannot end homelessness, we cannot end poverty if we do not address housing.”

Located next to the site of the groundbreaking is a small house already brightly decorated for Christmas. Its owner is Nicole Grant, who said she is supportive of the new housing project. Not everyone in her neighborhood approved,

access to these services for low income communities,” said Yaphett El-Amin, executive director of MOKAN.

Ygrene recently acquired Missouri-based Energy Equity Funding (EEF), the property-assessed clean energy administrator, which oversees Set the PACE St.

Grant said, but she hopes the development will increase the security and property value of her home.

“I really think it’s needed in the community, because there’s so many abandoned buildings,” Grant said.

Governor’s commission cuts low-income housing tax credit

The St. Ferdinand Homes II project received financial support from several sources, including the St. Louis Community Development Administration and the St. Louis Symphony Fund. It has also benefitted from a low-

Louis and the Missouri Energy Savings Program for St. Louis County. The former launched in 2013 with the goal of offering innovative financing solutions for City of St. Louis property owners to perform energy efficiency and renewable energy property upgrades. The program

income housing tax credit from the Missouri Housing Development Commission.

Stephen Acree, president of Rise Community Development, said projects like these are an important reason to resist political efforts to end affordable housing tax credits.

“Let your state elected officials know that you support those programs,” Acree said.

Two days later, on November 17, the Missouri Housing Development Commission, led by Gov. Eric Greitens, voted to strip State Low Income Housing Tax Credits from its annual

has completed some of the largest commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) projects in the nation, including comprehensive energy efficiency upgrades on historic buildings and redevelopment of underutilized properties and vacant buildings.

St. Louis County’s Missouri

funding plan for 2018. The commission includes the governor, lieutenant governor, state treasurer, attorney general and six persons appointed by the governor with the advice and consent of the Senate.

“Sadly, low-income Missourians will suffer from this callous act. There are tens of thousands of people on housing waiting lists across the state,” Acree said in a statement.

Energy Savings Program, or “MO-ESP,” launched earlier this year.

Exceeding $4 billion in project funding nationally, PACE financing has grown in its appeal due to a track record of attracting private capital, as opposed to taxpayer funds.

The funding plan now goes out for public comment.

“We urge all concerned citizens to speak out,” Acree stated. “We hope that MHDC will respond to the calls of those most affected and the legislature and do the right thing when the plan goes back to them for approval in December.”

Contact the MHDC at (314) 877-1350 or tbeer@mhdc.com.

Jessica Karins is an editorial intern for the St. Louis American from Webster University.

“By thwarting the will of the legislature to withhold these resources, seniors, homeless veterans and people with special needs will spend another winter out in the cold, in shelters, or doubled-up with whoever might take them in. All because of political gamesmanship.”

Living It

Getting lit with

By Kenya Vaughn

Of The St. Louis American

“We getting money and we from the ‘Show Me.’ I be so lit with all of my homies,” a member from trio of girl rappers known as KiDGoalSs say on their breakthrough single “Get Lit.”

“At the rate that I’m going, it won’t be long before the world know me.”

She was right. “Get Lit” went viral following it’s release last year. The music video garnered 7.8 million views on YouTube for the 9,10 and 12-year-old girls – J’Den a.k.a. J-Sway, CC a.k.a. CeeBYB and Heaven aka Chevy – known collectively as KiDGoalSs. Before the St. Louis natives had a record deal, and before any of them made it to middle school, KiDGoalSs had become bonafide internet sensations. That video was just the beginning.

STL bred internet sensations looking to make their hip-hop mark

J’Den participated in the YouTube dance challenge where dancers perform to Ayo & Teo’s hit “Rolex.” In a blue bedazzled surgical mask and her now signature afro puffs, she

Timeless music from a rising young star

Cecile McLorin Salvant wows for Sheldon return

By Kenya Vaughn

Of The St. Louis American

From the moment Grammy Award-winning jazz singer Cecile McLorin Salvant opened her mouth and the trio of musicians began to play Saturday night, it was as if the entire crowd at

the Sheldon was in a time machine. They were transported to a time before the singing superstars of the day had the option of selling themselves and their brand with overt sexuality and over the top concert productions to compensate for lack of vocal talent and skill.

Her age, 28, classifies Salvant as a millennial. But she’s also a throwback to the jazz crooners that made the voice a powerful instrument in its own right – and had the talent to stand on their own while being accompanied by the giants of jazz. The late grand divas were alive in the magnificent acoustics of the Sheldon with Salvant

See JAZZ, C4

Denzel’s new dimension

New character type a bright spot in lackluster ‘Roman J. Israel, Esq.’

By Dwight Brown Of The NNPA

KiDGoalSs will celebrate the release of their new EP ‘Likes and Comments’ with a special concert Sunday, November 26 at The Pageant.

dropped on the beat and never let up. Her clip would get a staggering 23 million views.

The KiDGoalSs YouTube page is currently at 230,000-plus subscribers.

On Sunday, November 26 they will take the stage at The Pageant to celebrate the release of their debut EP, appropriately titled “Likes and Comments,” to establish themselves beyond the internet. They’ll also be proving social media was right when the respective channels deemed three young girls straight of St. Louis worthy of stardom.

The trio caught LooseCannon S.L.I.M.’s attention as one of the opening acts of his State of Emergency 314 Day Concert in March. “They ran out there so confident – and the crowd went crazy,” S.L.I.M. said. “I knew I had to do something.”

See LIT, C4

(NNPA) – Denzel Washington may be the most accomplished actor of our generation. Like a chameleon, he’s morphed from the stern father in “Fences” to a dorky, introverted attorney in this meandering crime-drama/thriller. His talent is more than enough reason to sit through the two hours and nine minutes of misguided, anticlimactic storytelling.

Writer/director Dan Gilroy’s feature film debut “Nightcrawler,” about a sleazy paparazzo, hinted at a bright future. His second piece of direction – and tenth screenplay – is noteworthy for creating a uniquely, memorable character: Roman J. Israel, Esq. Israel is a socially conscious, politically-minded attorney. He’s a remnant of the ‘70s pro-Black movement. The puffy Afro, big glasses and boxy-looking suits make him look like a college professor frozen in time. Now in his mid-sixties, he’s spent the better part of his career sequestered in a Los Angeles law office, surrounded by files and books. He’s an egghead. The brains of the firm, not the dazzling courtroom attorney. At home, with record albums stacked around his cluttered apartment, it looks as if he has idiosyncrasies akin to a hoarder. His brilliant mind (he memorizes legal statutes like Martha Stewart recalls recipes) is evident. His awkwardness around people is profound, like someone with

See DENZEL, C4

Photos by Ray Marklin Photography

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

Fri., Nov. 24, 8 p.m., A November Affair: Black Tie & Pearls Event. Join us for an after-Thanksgiving evening of entertainment and fun with the sounds of Syner-gee with the silky voice of Ronni- G. Orlando’s, 2050 Dorsett Rd., 63043. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com.

Sat., Nov. 25, 6 & 9 p.m., Holiday Winds Tour. Enjoy Althea Rene and Elan Trotman together with The Coleman Hughes Project for your upcoming holiday musical feast. Harris-Stowe State University, 3026 Laclede Ave., 63103. For more information, call (314) 496-7751.

Tues., Nov. 28, 5:30 p.m., Operation Food Search’s Holiday Rap ‘N Pack. Participants will sort winter coats and pack food for food insecure children and their families. 1644 Lotsie Blvd., 63132. For more information, visit www. operationfoodsearch.org.

Fri., Dec. 1, 6:30 p.m., National Sales Network Annual Holiday Party & Toy Drive. We will be donating toys to 100 Neediest Families. The Cheshire St. Louis, 6300 Clayton Rd., 63117. For more information, visit www. facebook.com.

Fri., Dec. 1, 8 p.m., Peabody Opera House presents Fantasia. She will be performing songs from her holiday album Christmas After Midnight. 1400 Market St., 63103. For more information, visit www.peabodyoperahouse. com.

Sat., Dec. 2, 7 p.m., The Ambassador presents A Motown Christmas with The Dramatics feat. Willie Ford. With special guest The Motown Revue. 9800 Halls Ferry Rd., 63136. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Dec. 2 – 3, The Community Gospel Choir of St. Louis presents A Gospel Christmas. With special guests the Legend Singers on December 2 and the Cote Brilliante Presbyterian Men’s Choir on December 3. Kirkwood Baptist Church, 211 N Woodlawn Ave., 63122. For more information, call (314) 3294242.

Wed., Dec. 6, 6 p.m., Urban League Guild of Metropolitan St. Louis Annual Christmas Party with a Purpose. Food, drinks, entertainment, and more to raise money for St. Louis’ 100 Neediest Families. A child’s toy to donate are welcomed. Omega Center., 3900 Goodfellow Blvd., 63120. For more information, call (314) 303-8724.

Fri., Dec. 8, 6 p.m., Artists First presents Deck the Walls (With Art and Love) Live music, food, and most importantly art. Kappa Community Center, 500 North Vandeventer Ave., 63108. For more information, visit www. artistsfirststl.org.

Dec. 8 & 9, Unity Theatre Ensemble returns to the stage with an encore of its original gospel musical, Make a Joyful Noise, Ivory Theatre, 7622 Michigan Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri.

Dec. 7 – 17, An Unforgettable Nat King Cole Christmas feat. Evan Tyrone Martin Playhouse at Westport Plaza, 635 West Port Plaza Dr., 63146. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com.

Fri., Dec. 8, 7 p.m., The Sheldon Concert Hall presents the Spanish Harlem Orchestra: Salsa Navidad 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108.

Sat., Dec. 9, 9 a.m., Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., St. Louis Alumnae Chapter

Kenya Vaughn recommends

presents Breakfast with Santa. Pancake breakfast, photos with Santa, toys, and more. Innovative Concept Academy, 1927 Cass Ave., 63107. For more information, visit www.DST-SLA.org.

Thur., Dec. 14, 7:30 p.m., Gospel Christmas: A Soulful Celebration with Dianne Reeves. Reeves joins the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and IN UNISON Chorus. Powell Hall, 718 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www.slso. org.

Fri., Dec. 15, 6:30 p.m., Peabody Opera House presents A Charlie Brown Christmas Live on Stage. Join the Peanuts gang in the journey to uncover the true meaning of Christmas. 1400 Market St., 63103. For more information, visit www. peabodyoperahouse.com.

Sat., Dec. 16, 2 p.m., Joyful Noize! Rockn’ The Holidayz – A Rock n’ Roll Holiday Show. This is also a comic book release party. Proceeds benefit Metro Theater Company. Grandel, 3610 Grandel Sq., 63108. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Sat., Dec. 23, 3 & 7 p.m., Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker. The Fox Theatre, 527 N. Grand Blvd., 63103.

Dec. 26 – 28, 7:30 p.m., Peabody Opera House presents ELF the Musical The hilarious tale of Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole.

concerts

Fri., Nov. 24, 7 p.m., A Night with Tony Terry. Blackmons Plaza, 127 Collinsville Ave., East St. Louis, IL. 62201. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Fri., Nov. 24, 8 p.m., Fresh Heir Believe Album Showcase. .Zack, 3224 Locust St., 63103. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Sat., Nov. 25, 8 p.m., Exquisite Taste and S. Hartwell Jones & Associates present The Bobby Rush Show with DJ Ice Berg Omega Center, 3900 Goodfellow Blvd., 63120. For more information, visit www.

metrotix.com.

Sun., Nov. 26, 6 p.m., MMDA presents Up Close and Personal with Avant & Keke Wyatt. Skip Viragh Center for the Arts, 425 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 63131. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Sun., Nov. 26, 6 p.m. (5 p.m. doors), LooseCannon and RockHouse Ent. Presents Kid Goalss EP release concert. The Pageant. 6161 Delmar.

Sat., Dec. 2, 7 p.m., The Ambassador presents A Motown Christmas with The Dramatics feat. Willie Ford. With special guest The Motown Revue. 9800 Halls Ferry Rd., 63136. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Sat., Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m., STL Free Jazz Collective & Douglas R. Ewart. 14th Street Artist Community, 2701 N. 14th St., 63107. For more information, visit www. facebook.com.

Dec. 2 – 3, The Community Gospel Choir of St. Louis presents A Gospel Christmas. With special guests the Legend Singers on December 2 and the Cote Brilliante Presbyterian Men’s Choir on December 3. Kirkwood Baptist Church, 211 N Woodlawn Ave., 63122. For more information, call (314) 3294242.

Sun., Dec. 3, 8 p.m., The Sheldon Concert Hall presents Damien Escobar: The Heart and Soul Tour 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108.

Sun., Dec. 3, 7 p.m., St. Louis Symphony presents An Evening with Leslie Odom Jr. Powell Hall, 718 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www.slso. org.

Sat., Dec. 16, 7:30 p.m., Chaifetz Arena presents Xscape: The Great Xscape Tour. With Monica and Tamar Braxton. Chaifetz Arena, 1 S. Compton Ave., 63103. For more information, visit www.thechaifetzarena. com.

local gigs

Fri., Nov. 24, 6 p.m., The Brotherhood (Testimony of Music, Life, Living and Celebration of Artistic Excellence) featuring Ptah Williams, Darrell Mixon and Gary Sykes, The Dark Room,

3610 Grandel Square. For more information, visit https:// racstl.org/event/brotherhoodtestimony-music-life-livingcelebration-artistic-excellence/

Fri., Nov. 24, 9:30 p.m., The Late Show with Chuck Flowers featuring Antonio Foster (keys), Melvin Moore (bass), and Drew MH Bethany (drums), The Dark Room 3610 Grandel Sq. www.artistecard.com/CFlowers

Fri., Nov. 24, 8 p.m., Fresh Heir Believe Album Showcase. .Zack, 3224 Locust St., 63103. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Sun., Nov. 26, 3 & 6 p.m., If Only for One Night –Legends of Soul Tribute Featuring the music of Gladys Knight and Patti Labelle. Artists will also cover the music of Sam Cooke, Chaka Khan, and more. .Zack, 3224 Locust St., 63103. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Sat., Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m., STL Free Jazz Collective & Douglas R. Ewart. 14th Street Artist Community, 2701 N. 14th St., 63107. For more information, visit www. facebook.com.

Mon., Nov. 27, 4:30 p.m., St. Louis County invites you to an Informational Open House for the Jamestown Mall Site. Christian Hospital Northeast campus, Dietrick Building, 11133 Dunn Rd., 63136. For more information, visit www.stlouisco.com/ jamestown.

Thur., Nov. 30, 6 p.m., Urban League Young Professional Membership Orientation. 3701 Grandel Sq., 63108. For more information, visit nowulypmembership. eventbrite.com.

Fri., Dec. 1, 10 a.m., Taxpayer Advocate ProblemSolving Day. The Taxpayer Advocate Service will be available to assist taxpayers in-person with guidance, direction on next steps, and case-building ideas. St. Louis City Hall, 1200 Market St., 63103. For more information, call (314) 339-1835.

comedy

Thurs., Nov. 23 – Sun., Nov. 26, The Laugh Lounge

St. Louis Symphony presents An Evening with Leslie Odom Jr. For more information, see CONCERTS.

presents comedy legend Michael Colyar, The Laugh Lounge, 1208 W Florissant Ave, Florissant, MO 63033. For more information, visit www.thelaughloungestl.com

Dec. 1 – 2, 7:30 & 10 p.m., Helium Comedy Club presents Ron Funches. 1151 St. Louis Galleria St., 63117. For more information, visit www.heliumcomedy.com.

Fri., Dec. 8, 7 p.m., Improv Shop hosts a Night of Comedy. Proceeds benefit United 4 Children. 3960 Chouteau Ave., 63110. For more information, visit www. united4children.org.

Thur., Nov. 30, 5 p.m., Celebrating Dick Gregory: Part II. The second part of our tribute focuses on A Lifetime of Activism and Comedy with a screening of Unsung Washington University School of Law, 1 Brookings Dr., 63130. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com.

literary

Wed., Nov. 29, 7 p.m., St. Louis County Library hosts author Khizr Khan, author of An American Family: A Memoir of Hope and Sacrifice 399 N. Euclid. For more information, visit www.leftbank.com.

Sat., Dec. 2, 12 p.m., Smile Big, Dream Bigger presents The Bigger the Fro, the More I Know Book Release Party. Meet author Andrea Scott, do arts and crafts, collect prizes, and more. 10 N. Compton Ave., 63103. For more information, visit www. facebook.com.

Thur., Dec. 14, 7 p.m., St. Louis County Library hosts author Peter Hayes, author of Why?: Explaining the Holocaust. Library Headquarters, 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit www. left-bank.com.

art

Through Nov. 30, The Griot Museum of Black History presents Black Women Speak. We invite AfricanAmerican women to present works that interpret issues faced by African-American women. 2505 St. Louis Ave., 63106. For more information, visit www.thegriotmuseum. com.

Sat., Dec. 1, 6 p.m., Zuka Arts Guild presents In

Formation: A Spectrum of Sculpture. Featuring works by Gundia Locke-Clay, Joseph LaMarque, Bill Murphy, Janet Riehl, and Solomon Thurman. 14th Street Community Artist Gallery, 2701 N. 14th St., 63107. For more information, call (217) 370-6876.

Through December 31, Mickalene Thomas: Mentors, Muses, and Celebrities, The Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis, 3750 Washington Blvd. St. Louis, 63108. For more information, visit http://camstl. org/ or call (314) 535-4660.

lectures and workshops

Nov. 28, 2 p.m., Seniors Home Care presents Free Family Caregiver Training Learn about incontinence care, home safety, Alzheimer’s/ dementia, handling caregiver stress, and more. 504 Marshall Ave., 63119. For more information, visit www. seniorshomecare.com.

Wed., Nov. 29, 6:30 p.m., Segregation by Design. Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell Blvd., 63112. For more information, visit www. mohistory.org.

Thur., Nov. 30, 7 p.m., St. Louis Psychoanalytic Institute presents Understanding Race, Social Class, and Justice. The intersection of these three categories will be explored, both in psychotherapy and in daily life. Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, 975 N. Warson Rd., 63132. For more information, visit www. facebook.com.

Fri., Dec. 1, 10 a.m., Taxpayer Advocate ProblemSolving Day. The Taxpayer Advocate Service will be available to assist taxpayers in-person with guidance, direction on next steps, and case-building ideas. St. Louis City Hall, 1200 Market St., 63103. For more information, call (314) 339-1835.

Sun., Dec. 3, 2:30 p.m., Talk + Action Workshops. “FaciliTrainers” from NCCJ St. Louis will lead an education workshop, with discussion on issues of employment equity. Missouri History Museum.

Wed., Dec. 6, 5:30 p.m., SLU Graduate Business Information Sessions. Join us for our winter information session to learn more about our MBA and Specialized

Kenya Vaughn recommends

Masters Programs. John Cook School of Business, 3674 Lindell Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit www. gradbiz.slu.edu.

Sun., Dec. 10, 3 p.m., Human Rights Day 2017. A special panel discussion on the condition of human rights in our contemporary society. Missouri History Museum.

theatre

Nov. 28 – Dec. 10, The Fox Theatre presents The King and I. The story of the unconventional relationship that develops between the King of Siam and a British schoolteacher. 527 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www. fabulousfox.com.

Wed., Nov. 29, 6 p.m., Contemporary Art Museum presents Performance: Gendering Memories of Iraq. A reflection on concepts of diaspora, immigration, and community. 3750 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit www.camstl.org.

Nov. 30 – Dec. 3, St. Louis University Theatre presents The Merchant of Venice. A loan in the name of love

with perilous terms sets the stage for this tale of romance, deception and courtroom drama. Marcelle, 3310 Samuel Shepard Dr., 63103. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Dec. 7 – 10, Ignite Theatre Company presents Seussical The Cat in the Hat tells the story of Horton, an elephant who discovers a speck of dust containing Whos. .Zack, 3224 Locust St., 63103. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Sun., Dec. 10, 1 p.m., Civic Arts Company presents Race. A one-act play based on Studs Terkel’s Race: How Blacks and Whites Think and Feel About the American Obsession. Missouri History

Museum, 5700 Lindell Blvd., 63112. For more information, visit www.mohistory.org.

health

Tues., Nov. 28, 2 p.m., Seniors Home Care presents Free Family Caregiver Training. Learn about incontinence care, home safety, Alzheimer’s/dementia, handling caregiver stress, and more. 504 Marshall Ave., 63119. For more information, visit www.seniorshomecare. com.

Fri., Dec. 1, 3 p.m., World AIDS Day 2017. Remember those who have lost their battle with HIV/AIDS and recognize individuals who exemplify dedication to the HIV/AIDS

community. Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell Blvd., 63112. For more information, visit www.mohistory.org.

Sat., Dec. 2, 10 a.m., Sarah Allen Women’s Missionary Society is sponsoring a Red Cross Blood Drive, Christ Our Redeemer AME Church, 13820 Old Jamestown Rd. Black Jack, MO. Call 314-368- 8952 to make an appointment.

Sat., Dec. 9, 11 a.m., Double Dutch ShowcaseHealthy Schools Healthy Communities. Wohl Rec Center, 1515 N. Kingshighway Blvd., 63113. For more information, call (314) 286-0539 or email HSHC@bjc.org.

spiritual

Fri., Dec. 3, 6 p.m., Healing Woman Ministries presents Ladies Night at the Bistro Ladies, come together for an evening of comedy, live entertainment, food and more. University City Library Auditorium, 6701 Delmar Blvd., 63130. For more information, call (314) 5905673.

Sat., Dec. 9, 6:20 p.m., A.K.A The Collective’s Christian Christmas Concert. The group will perform original hits from their debut CD entitle “Christ-A-Must: Vol. 1”. St. Louis Mills Mall (Entrance #3), 5555 St. Louis Mills Blvd., 63042. For more information, visit www. ChristAMust.com.

Sun., Dec. 10, 4:45 p.m., The Worship Arts Ministry presents A Spotless Rose, Hope for the World: Worship for Lessons & Carols. The story of Christ’s birth through Scripture, music, and congregational song. Grace United Methodist Church, 6199 Waterman Blvd., 63113. For more information, visit www. graceumc-stl.org.

MMDA presents Up Close and Personal with Avant & Keke Wyatt. See CONCERTS for details.

as a vessel. Her latest visit showcased her rare gift in all its glory. She sold songs with the ability of Billie Holiday and Abbey Lincoln. She hit highs and lows with the richness and precision of Sarah Vaughan, the charm of Ella Fitzgerald and the passion of Nina Simone.

Audiences caught the future of jazz in the act of becoming a legend. And it was a sight to behold. Salvant brilliantly borrowed from a host of other genres over the course of her 75-minute set. Through songs made popular by Barbara Streisand, Bessie Smith and even Stevie Wonder, Salvant spoke to the blues origins of jazz and the music’s unyielding, albeit often uncredited influence.

Salvant delivered an integrated blend of her albums – including her latest “Dreams and Daggers,” which was released September 29. Even if one thought it wasn’t possible, the mix of songs gave a greater appreciation for her stunning voice.

Early on Salvant performed the lone original number of the night entitled “Fog” and shared a story about how the subject of her unrequited attraction and reached out to her about it.

“He found out that it was about him. It was quite embarrassing. He sent a text message and was like, ‘What, is this song about me?” Salvant said. “Anyhow, I don’t know why I said that. We’re going to continue with songs I didn’t write. We’ll do ‘Wives and Lovers.”

The Burt Bacharach song was included on her latest album, which was announced on Tuesday as being among the nominees for “Outstanding Jazz Album” for the 49th Annual NAACP Image Awards.

Salvant took advantage of the acoustics of the Sheldon when she put the microphone behind her back to perform an extended version of the blues/ folk standard “John Henry,” a song she recorded for her debut

album “Womanchild.”

Her trio of musicians on bass, drum and piano used their instruments to pat the tempo as Salvant belted the song. There seemed to be no limit to her vocal range as she closed with notes that are typically reserved for registers sung in opera. With the dramatic end of “John Henry,” the crowd was so delightfully stunned that they had to gather themselves to react. The applause came with a delay, but it was rousing. Stevie Wonder’s haunting soul ballad “Visions In My Mind” was reimagined for jazz thanks to Salvant. It was nearly unrecognizable, but equally beautiful. Afterwards Salvant shifted to the blues.

With “Wild Women Don’t Get the Blues” – the near century-old standard originated by Ida Cox and Bessie Smith’s “Sam Jones Blues,” with the selections and their arrangements, Salvant paid homage to the genre that birthed jazz – and every other form of American music.

She playfully spun on the lyrics and interacted with the crowd. Her ode to the blues gave way to her finale – which was somewhat of tribute to St. Louis.

“Where are we?” Salvant asked before announcing that she would close with “The Trolley Song,” from the beloved musical film “Meet Me in St. Louis.”

Continued from C1

He signed them to his LooseCannon Ent. Label.

Over the summer, they had a similar effect on the audience of Jermaine Dupri’s SoSo Def So So Summer Tour at Peabody Opera House. When KiDGoalSs hit the stage, the audience of screaming young people poured into the aisles to mimic the dance moves and vibe to their music.

“They look too little to be on that show, but they tearin’ it up,” an audience member said to a woman a few seats down. The concert was opened by local acts, but the main artists were cast members from Dupri’s Lifetime Network show “The Rap Game.”

“They weren’t on that show. They from St. Louis,” the woman said while chatting with the fellow parent after their children made way to the aisles. “Girl, quit lying. Those little girls? I’ve seen them on the internet.”

They’ve been in the studio and putting in work to make sure they become household names with the parents as well as the children.

“They wrote their own stuff and they discussed their ideas,” S.L.I.M. said of their recently released EP. “We just made beats around their ideas. We put our heads together as far as concepts and stuff like that. They went in there and knocked it out.”

KiDGoalsS have already shown themselves ready – and their EP drives home the point.

Lyrically, “Likes and Comments” is what’s essential-

DENZEL

Continued from C1

Asperger’s Syndrome. When Roman’s extroverted law partner suffers a heart attack and can’t return to work, the bookworm is forced to plead cases in criminal courtrooms, to no success. He finds work at a glitzy law firm run by a slick attorney (Colin Farrell, “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them”), and fails to fit in. A budding romance with a teacher/social activist (Carmen Ejogo, “Alien: Covenant”) brings him to the doorstep of reality. Working a case for a defendant, who is accused of murder, puts the naïve and income-challenged Roman in a tempting situation, where he can collect a reward.

“I’m tired of doing the impossible for the ungrateful,” Israel says.

Gilroy’s script exhausts its energy in the beginning, meticulously setting up Roman’s character. Then it runs out of steam and ideas. What’s the point in watching a man who is living on the edge of insanity if there isn’t a breakthrough that takes him somewhere audiences could not have imagined? Or, why tag along with a failed attorney if he doesn’t redeem himself? As the momentum flails in this character-driven film, so does Gilroy’s direction.

The pacing (editor John

KiDGoalSs has been in the studio and putting in work to make sure they become household names with the parents as well as the children.

ly on the mind of every tween

– dancing, birthdays, best friends and having fun. But the music is so well-done and is so catchy that adults will get into as well. Parents will find this kid-friendly hip-hop refreshing – and the children will be too caught up in the infectious beats and relatable content to write it off as corny.

The music matches their performances. As a group, they also have that type of charm and individuality that connects them to their young listeners.

“You have three different individuals with three different personalities that cater to every kid,” S.L.I.M. said. “They some straight naturals too.”

S.L.I.M., who is typically never one to shy away from self-promotion, wanted to make sure that the music and the tal-

Gilroy of “Michael Clayton” and “The Bourne Legacy”) is decent regardless. The cinematography (Robert Elswit from “Michael Clayton,” “The Bourne Legacy”) takes the spit and polish off of Los Angeles and makes its street scenes look as grimy as those shot in New York City.

The contrast between Roman’s old digs and his new fancy condo is all the more startling because of the diametrically-opposed set designs (set decorator Meg Everist and production design Kevin Kavanaugh from “Nightcrawler”). And if prizes were given for making wonky characters appear suitably shabby, costume designer Francine Jamison-Tanchuck (“The Birth of a Nation”) would win.

Colin Farrell, with his slicked-back hair and fancy suits displays the right balance of cold-as-ice calculating attorney and caring snake. Somehow, it’s a bit hard to imagine a woman, who looks like Carmen Ejogo (“Selma”) having a romantic interest in man who looks like an urban bear. Yet, their beauty and the beast flirtations are worth a gander.

Both actors greatly support Denzel Washington as he crafts a character that was not previously in his arsenal. He’s concocted crooked narcotics officers (“Training Day”), pugilists (“The Hurricane”), heroic activists (“Malcolm

ent of the young group spoke more for them that he did. But he has all the confidence in the world in his latest act. And he feels like they are gamechangers who can fill the void missing in the lane of youth generated entertainment that the industry hasn’t seen the likes of since Bow Wow.

“These kids are stars. They are a different breed,” S.L.I.M. said. “Once they get on stage at The Pageant on Sunday, it’s over.”

KiDGoalSs Likes and Comments EP is currently available on iTunes. The Official EP Release Concert will take place at 6 p.m. (5 p.m. doors) on Sunday, November 26 at The Pageant, 6161 Delmar. For more information, visit www.thepageant.com.

X”) and gunslingers (“The Magnificent Seven”). In most of his performances, anger, decisiveness and self-assurance have well-complimented his leading man looks. For the first time in memory, those innate characteristics are absent. His Roman is a muddled misfit, who makes bad choices; his instincts block him. The slouched posture, protruding stomach and puffy face, also mean that Washington has laid all vanity aside to thoroughly inhabit this unique role. And, he delivers his lines with dour sarcasm. When an offer is made to Roman, the indignant attorney responds, “It’s an enema of sunshine.” The quirky story of “Roman J. Israel, Esq.” is unmemorable. However, it is a very useful showcase for one of the finest actors working today. This kind of performance makes Oscar voters stand in awe. This kind of acting keeps viewers’ eyes glued to the screen, regardless of the surroundings. Roman J. Israel, Esq. opens in theatres nationwide on Wednesday, Nov. 22. The film is rated PG-13 with a running time of 129 minutes.

Dwight Brown is a film critic and travel writer. As a film critic, he regularly attends international film festivals including Cannes, Sundance, Toronto and the American Black Film Festival. Read more movie reviews by Dwight Brown here and at DwightBrownInk.com.

Photos by Ray Marklin Photography

Cecile McLorin Salvant

Anniversaries

Sending best anniversary wishes to Ralph and Mary Johnson! The Johnsons will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on November 25.

Celebrations

Minister Herman and Carrie Mae

Reunions

Beaumont Class of 1968 will celebrate its 50-year reunion June 8-10,2018. Yes, Class ‘68 will begin Milestone celebration 6th month on 8th day. Our 2018 meetings in preparation will be held at STL County library located

Armstrong are celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary on November 27!

Your children, grandchildren, family, friends and Pleasant Green M.B.

Church family wish you a very happy and blessed 60th Anniversary! We love you and thank God for the example you have been for us. To God be the glory!

Darryl, Judy, David, Sr., Andre, David, Jr & Jenene, Sherman, Herman & Kimberli, and Angela

7606 Natural Bridge at 1:00 p.m.. Dates are (Saturdays) January 13, February 17, March 17, April 21, May 19 and June 2. For more information call (314) 8698312 or email bhsco1968@ att.net. Pass the word and lets celebrate!

Beaumont High Class of 1973 is planning its 45th reunion for next year! Please check the Beaumont Facebook page for scheduled meetings and conference calls. Any questions, contact: Rita at 314-241-5419.

Beaumont High Class of 1978 will celebrate its

40-year reunion in 2018. For further information, please contact: Marietta Shegog Shelby, 314-799-5296, madeshe@sbcglobal.net.

Homer G. Phillips and St. Louis Municipal School of Nursing is planning an all class reunion in June 2018. Please send your name, address and telephone number to: Homer G. Phillips Nurses Alumni, Inc., P.O. Box 8033 St. Louis, Missouri 63156.

McKinley Class of 1978 will celebrate its 40-year reunion July 27-29, 2018 at the Embassy Suites-Airport. For more information please

Birthday

Anthony McKissick will turn 46 on November 23. He is a devoted husband, outstanding father, son, supportive brother and a caring friend and inspiration to many that have crossed his life. May God continue to bless him above measure. Happy Birthday!

Social Worker Honored

Pattonville School District social worker Carla Gardner was recently named Missouri’s 20172018 School Social Worker of the Year by the School Social Workers Association of Missouri. The award recognizes a member who demonstrates outstanding contributions in service to students and their families, shows initiative in providing services and contributes to a positive image for the school social work profession.

contact Barbara Lindsey, Barbara_Lindsey@icloud.com or Marvin Woods, mwoods@ projectcontrolsgroup.com , (314) 647-0707.

Northwest High School Class of 1978 is planning its 40-year reunion for next year. PLEASE reach out to our classmates, tell them get ready for this. If you have any questions please contact Sly at (314) 397-0311 or email us at northwestbluedevils@78gmail. com. Check us out on Facebook Northwest High School-Class of 1978.

Sumner Class of 1976 Annual Christmas Party

Saturday, December 23, 2017, 7 pm at DEJAVU II Cafe, 2805 Target Dr. 2 for 1 drink specials (5:307:30pm), free parking, No cover charge but $5 (40-Yr Class Reunion Attendees & Guest) or $10 for all others for the Catered Food. Limited Reserved Seating AVAILABLE until 10pm. (Doors open 5pm/closes 1am) For more info, call B. Louis at 314.385.9843.

University City Class of 1978 will hold its 40th reunion May 25-27, 2018. For more information please email ucityhs1978@gmail. com

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, 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

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, 2315 Pine

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

Swag Snap of the Week

Kimbella’s killer curves in the club of many couches. Reality TV vixen Kimbella stopped through SHiSha for her latest trip to the STL Friday night. I was about ready to go because some middle eastern lookin’ dude tried to police me as I made my way to VIP and was acting like it was so crowded. I had to stop myself from saying, “people would have room to breathe if there wasn’t so much furniture up in here.” It was packed, I’m not going to lie. But I just don’t see why they need all that furniture. It feels like a big lounge chair instead of an actual lounge. But on with the event. Kimbella was serving butter pecan Kim Kardashian realness. She gave ShiSha a win by bringing out the masses to the Mangrove. It got to the point where I thought the management was going to have to order the staff to pile the plentitude of ottomans out on balcony to make room for the crowd.

All the way live at Lucha. You know that you are about to be in a hotspot –both literal and metaphorical – when you pull up to the place and the windows are sweaty and fogged up. How could there be anything but an abundance of life? And that’s exactly what I got when I hit up Lucha Saturday night. DJ JMO was killing it on the tables when I came through and the crowd couldn’t help but feel it. The night had great energy and good music. My silk press suffered because of the humidity, but it was worth it!

The return of Poefest. Poefest – an annual night of music that shines light on the best of STL Hip-hop with some special guests from out of town that was founded by and featured Tef Poe – had 2720 on lock Saturday night. I ran into so many STL hip-hop veterans – from emcees like Indiana Rome and one of the Family Affair twins (I can never tell them apart) to spin doctors like Smitty, DJ Sno and James Biko. I was also able to fellowship with hip-hop jack of all trades Black Spade as I enjoyed performances by Bates, The Knuckles, Corey Black and Poe. Though abbreviated, Tef’s stage offering was refreshing, mainly because it was the first time I had seen him in the flesh in a minute. Things ran a little late, so I had to hit it before headliner Project Pat hit the stage, but I heard it went well.

An evening of R&B with a side of rusty vocals. For those of you who hit up your aunt Sheryl, Doris, Phyllis, Dorothy, Shirley, Louise, Barbara, Mamie, Bessie, Johnnie Mae or Steen to get a plate from their Sunday soul food dinner flow only to find them missing in action, chances are they were readying themselves to catch Freddie Jackson Sunday night. 95.5 FM brought out the entire elderly lounge hole in the wall community to the Ambassador. I saw so many sugar daddies in sweaters with leather patches and matching pants, boots and brims that I lost count. I was expecting to see sling backs and kitten heels from the women of a certain age – but none of your TTs were messing around! They had heels and thigh high boots that would have had the young girls gagging with envy. They didn’t even let ailments interrupt their swag. I noticed one woman limping like she had the gout leaning and posing on the right side ONLY in this green dress and open toe stiletto bootie like she was slaying the game. She quietly was – until I noticed that she had a gold flip flop on the left foot. Help. I don’t know why, but the crowd wasn’t connecting with Kim Massie like it normally does. Rhoda G. and her dramatic blazer fared well though. Everybody up in there was having a ball as DJ Kut played jam after jam of black music classics that I wish he had played at the Old School After Party at Salute. I know y’all want to hear about Freddie Jackson’s performance and you’ve probably figured out by now that I’m stalling because I don’t necessarily want to talk about it. The night was still a win, because the folks packed the place out and it was cute for the folks who hadn’t really been out on a regular basis since Freddie Jackson and Melba Moore were the OG Avant and Keke Wyatt (who are coming to town Nov. 26, by the way). Freddie’s band was absolutely everything. And he sounded a world better than I expected – which really isn’t saying much at all. The crowd was so into the idea of his hits taking them through their quiet storm days with his R&B nostalgia that he could have sounded any kind of way which is great, because he did.

Memory lane with Murphy Lee. I might as well wrap up with another show that had me down memory lane. But this time it’s a performer who actually sounded like he did in his prime. Sorry Freddie, but facts cannot be classified as shade. I started to pass and head to the house because I got hemmed up much longer than expected waiting on Freddie Jackson to take the stage at 9 p.m. for a 7 p.m. show, and the Murphy Lee appearance was billed as a day party. Since I go so hard for Murph, I decided to take my chances. I made it to Ballpark Village just in time. Ballpark Village was packed to the gills when I got down there. Murphy Lee had just hit the stage – and thankfully gave us all the hits, as well as a new number or two. Was I the only one who was a nervous wreck when he took his show from the stage to the wooden edge of those booths? I haven’t been so fearful that a routine could go wrong since Simone Biles took that tumble on the balance beam at last year’s Olympic Games. Fortunately, Murph stuck the landing after giving a performance that was a near perfect ten. Shout out to Dameon Christian for his COGIC Holy Convocation hat game at the hip hop show. I say this with no shade whatsoever. I was quietly underwhelmed by the hats at COGIC this year, and yours was more along the lines of what I had hoped to see. Was that a Rosebud?

TV personality Kimbella and @Cartaworks snapped it up as ShiSha celebrated their 1year anniversary Beard Gang supporters Chante and Que arrived early for The Beard Gang Delectable Day Party Sunday @ Cuetopia II

Eric and Corey were GQ photoshoot ready when they stepped into The Beard Gang Delectable Day Party Sunday @ Cuetopia II

Carleece and Brittaney made sure they didn’t miss Destine’s birthday turnup @ The Marquee Saturday

It was everything but a regular Friday night as J Ball and Sean Jammin arrived to chill @ Jay’s Classic Grill

Friday Sunday BPV was filled and Faith was lucky to snag a shot with St. Lunatic Murphy Lee after he rocked the stage

The night was still young when Jamal and Winnie made their way to MOOD Saturday

John and Jamie during their date night @ Poe Fest Saturday @2720

Gerard, his mother Lisa and the crew were gala ready as he celebrated his birthday Saturday @ MOOD

Memphis native and headliner Project Pat felt right at home when he hit the stage for Poe Fest 2017 before a full house as Tef Poe and manager Jay Stretch celebrated another successful evening that gave shine to STL hip-hop.

Photos by V. Lang

Ebony and Nico on the dance floor Saturday night @ Lucha

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR

DIRECTOR OF INVESTIGATIONS

The University of Missouri Office for Civil Rights & Title IX invites applications for Director of Investigations. This position oversees our response to reported violations of MU antidiscrimination policies. http://hrs.missouri.edu/find-ajob/staff/index.php, enter job ID 24621.

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

A small not-for-profit is seeking application for the position of Chief Operating Officer to open January 1, 2018. The candidate must possess a comprehensive understanding of notfor-profit organizational functions and systems that include planning, administration, resource development and marketing. The position assist the CEO in the effective management of the agency. Candidates who have a least five years of demonstrated effectiveness in a nonprofit setting will be considered. An undergraduate degree is required, with an advanced degree such as MBA or Masters in Nonprofit Management highly desirable. Recent retirees can also apply. Send resume and salary requirement to P.O.Box 23247, St. Louis, Mo. 63156

CARE

Services company seeking caring individuals that would like to earn up to $11.00 per hour taking care of their loved ones in their homes. To learn more about this opportunity contact us at (314) 782-7311 or via email at info@medstarcds.com.

MANAGER Need a Property Manager to manage your property? Special HOLIDAY monthly rate - 5% for the 1st 50 clients*. Call JKadlet Realty today at 314-260-9633.

SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATE FILING

The School District of Jennings encourages qualified persons interested in a position on the Board of Education to file as a candidate in the April 3, 2018 election. Interested persons may file at the superintendent’s office, located at 2559 Dorwood Drive. For more information you can contact the district at 314-653-8000. Filing will begin on December 12, 2017 at 8:00 a.m. and continue during the district’s regular business hours, which are Monday-Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. with the only exception of the first and last day of filing with business hours ending at 5:00 p.m. Filing will not occur on any days the district offices are closed for holidays, breaks or inclement weather. The district will be closed the following holidays and breaks: December 21, 2017-January 2, 2018 and January 15, 2018. Inclement weather closings will be listed on the district website and local new stations when applicable. Candidate filing will end on January 16, 2018 at 5:00 p.m. There are two positions available with three-year terms. These positions are currently held by Mr. Reggie Hall and Ms. Rose Mary Johnson.

DISPATCH OFFICER

Explore St. Louis / America’s Center seeks a full time Dispatch Officer to monitor and operate the Building Automation Systems which include the CCTV, Fire and Lighting control system for monitoring building property and the HVAC BAS Systems. Must have computer knowledge in Microsoft Word and Excel, the ability to effectively communicate information to Public Safety Officers & building staff and initiate work orders and incident reports. Minimum of a High School diploma or GED, one to two years related experience. Must be able to pass a background check, drug screen and knowledgeable in Microsoft Office. This is a 24/7 operation. The potential candidate must be able to work all shifts which include days, nights, weekends and holidays. Email resume & cover letter to jobs@explorestlouis.com; NO PHONE CALLS! EOE.

Loyola Academy of St. Louis PRINCIPAL

Loyola Academy of St. Louis seeks an experienced educator to serve as principal for the 2018-19 School Year. The successful candidate will be a practicing Christian with an understanding of Jesuit education, hold a degree in education/counseling, has experience in assessment practices, instructional leadership, curriculum and professional development. Loyola Academy is a Jesuit middle school established in 1999. Its mission is to serve academically capable young men who can succeed in college preparatory high

ucational philosophy, resume, transcripts, and references, before January 2, 2018 to: Dr. H. Eric Clark, President Loyola Academy 3851 Washington Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63108 OR: eclark@loyolaacademy.org

ATTORNEY

Legal Services of Eastern Missouri, Inc. (LSEM), a non-profit law firm which provides high quality civil legal assistance and equal access to justice for persons living with low-income/ low-opportunity and the elderly without charge, seeks an attorney to work in its Consumer Law Program. For more information and application instructions visit our website at www.lsem.org. This position closes December 9, 2017.

REJIS is currently seeking an Associate Network Analyst, to provide a wide range of services from installing, maintaining desktop PC’s, switches, routers and firewalls, servers, communication troubleshooting and

To see our benefits or apply for this or other jobs, please visit:www.rejis.org

EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disabled/ Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity

The REJIS Commission has developed an EEOP Utilization Report as required by the United States Department of Justice. It is available for review on our website at rejis.org/employment. VP VALUED CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

Responsible for the successful implementation of a Valued Customer Service process. This role will partner with internal cross functional business teams to develop the enterprise customer experience process, using technical tools, data and teams to evaluate current processes and recommend operational improvements. This role leads the VCE team and supports the overall strategy for our VCE initiatives by using data, KPIs, VoC, relationship building and other tools to optimize the customer experience while managing costs and driving revenue. This role collaborates with a diverse set of business partners in identifying new opportunities to drive significant improvement to VCE’s operational performance by leveraging analytics and process improvement methodologies. To apply, please visit: www.safetynational. com and click on the Careers tab.

PRINCIPAL DATA ANALYST

Family Court of St. Louis County is seeking a Principal Data Analyst to perform complex social service research, data collection and other responsibilities such as program evaluation, grant writing, the study of community trends to determine how to best allocate resources, develop and monitor performance criteria, as well as publishing data on the Court’s website to increase transparency with the community. The incumbent must possess the ability to use independent judgement, complete work of marked difficulty and provide direct supervision to the Court’s Data Analyst position. The salary range is $50,856.00-$81,348.80 annually. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s Degree (Master’s Preferred) in social sciences or economics, social work, criminal justice, public administration, sociology, statistical analysis or related field. A minimum of two years supervisory experience is required. Prefer four years of experience in data analysis in a social service setting or a related field; or any equivalent combination of training and experience. Considerable knowledge of statistical methods of analyzing data. The ability to express ideas verbally and in written form which objectively conveys meaningful data and clearly reflects program goals and outcome measures. Excellent knowledge of computer software including Microsoft Office to include Excel, Publisher, and Access. Ability to become proficient in Cognos Report Net Studio and the ability to manipulate data and write code/syntax for computer information systems/databases. To apply, please send a current resume, along with a cover letter, to the following address (application materials must be postmarked by December 8, 2017): Attn: Human Resources Department, Family Court of St. Louis County, 105 S. Central Ave., Clayton, MO 63105. EOE. Please contact the Human Resources Department at 615-2901 (voice) or RelayMo 711 or 800-735-2966 if you need any accommodations in the application process, or if you would like this posting in an alternative form.

Established in 1981, The Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority (“MOHELA”) is a leading national servicer of

loans for the Department of

MOHELA is seeking an Assistant Director of Training and Development in St. Louis, MO, with eight (8) or more years of related experience. Work collaboratively with other leaders across various functions to research, evaluate, create and implement innovative learning programs. Develop and implement a plan for providing e-Learning to our team members. Proactively identify organizational needs and inefficiencies and provide solutions via the development of training courses, reference materials and job aids.

Requirements Bachelor’s degree (B.A.) from four-year College or university. Master’s degree preferred 8 years or more leading a training department for an organization. Extensive experience implementing a Learning Management System Located in Chesterfield, Missouri, MOHELA offers excellent benefits, including: Medical + Dental + and Vision coverage within 60-90 days 401K with dollar for dollar match up to 8% of salary after 1 year Fully vested company paid pension after 5 years Tuition reimbursement up to $12,000 per year after 3 months

Dependent child tuition reimbursement after 1 year

We are an EEO/AA Employer. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.

To build a diverse workforce, MOHELA encourages applications from individuals with disabilities, minorities and veterans. In compliance with the American Disabilities Act Amendment Act (ADAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with MOHELA, please call 636.733.3700 x3571, TDD 7-1-1, or emailhr@mohela.com

Please apply at: http://mohela.balancetrak.com

Mo. 1959, as amended. All contractors must be on the Missouri Department of Transportation’s approved contractor

(7) days prior to bid opening.

Contractors and sub-contractors who sign a contract to work on a public works project shall provide a ten (10) hour OSHA construction safety program, or similar program approved by the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, to be completed by their on-site employees within sixty (60) days of beginning work on the construction project.

St. Louis County hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively ensure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, businesses owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, religion, creed, sex, age, ancestry, or national origin in consideration for an award.

Plans and specifications will be available on November 13, 2017 from the St. Louis County Web Site (www.stlouisco.com), or by contacting County Blue Reprographics, Inc., 1449 Strassner Drive, St. Louis, Missouri 63144, (314) 961-3800. There will be no refunds on any documents purchased.

Select the following link to view/purchase plans and specifications for this project: http://countyblue.boxlake.com/viewJobs.asp?action=list&group_id=9999

Bids must be accompanied by

P.A. SYSTEM REPLACEMENT – PHASE II At St. Louis Lambert International Airport

Sealed proposals will be received by the Board of Public Service in Room 208 City Hall, 1200 Market Street, St. Louis, Mo. Until 1:45 PM, CT, on Tuesday, December 19, 2017, then publicly opened and read. Plans and Specifications may be examined on the Board of Public Service website http://www.stl-bps.org/planroom.aspx (BPS On Line Plan Room) and may be purchased directly through the BPS website from INDOX Services at cost plus shipping. No refunds will be made.

Bidders shall comply with all applicable City, State and Federal laws (including MBE/WBE policies). Mandatory pre-bid meeting will be held on Monday, November 27, 2017 at 1:30 PM in the Ozark Conference Room at the Airport Office Building, 11495 Navaid Rd., Bridgeton, MO 63044.

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

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

The Midwest Cargo Hub Commission (“MCHC”) is soliciting proposals from qualified firms to provide marketing services for the promotion of live animal export operations.

To be considered, proposals must be received no later than 3:00 PM CT on Thursday, December 14, 2017. Proposals should be sent by e-mail to hbean@stlpartnership.com, or to Midwest Cargo Hub Commission, c/o: St. Louis Economic Development Partnership, ATTN: Howl Bean II, 7733 Forsyth Blvd., Suite 2200, St. Louis, Missouri 63105. DBE, MBE, and WBE firms are encouraged to bid.

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

St. Louis Economic Development Partnership Equal Opportunity Employer

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

Sealed bids for Butler Hill Road ARS Infrastructure, St. Louis County Project No.AR-1467, will be received at the Office of the Director of Procurement for the County of St. Louis, County Government Center Administration Building, 41 South Central Avenue, 8th Floor, Clayton, Missouri 63105, until 2:00 p.m on December 13, 2017

Plans and specifications will be available on November 20, 2017 from the St. Louis County Web Site (www.stlouisco.com), or by contacting County Blue Reprographics, Inc., 1449 Strassner Drive, St. Louis, Missouri 63144, (314) 961-3800.

DIRECTOR OF PROCUREMENT AND ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES ST. LOUIS, COUNTY

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

The ST. LOUIS AREA AGENCY ON AGING (SLAAA) is seeking bids for the FY 2019 Senior Program (Catering) and (All Aging Services) within the City of St. Louis. Bid packets may be picked up after 3:00p, Nov 28, 2017 at SLAAA, 1520 Market St., Rm 4065, St. Louis, 63103, or by downloading it from the SLAAA Website (www.SLAAA.org)

There will be optional pre-bid conferences on Wed, Dec 13, 2017, (Caterers); and Thur, Dec 14, 2017, (All Services); at 1:30 PM, 1520 Market St., 1st Fl Conf Rm. All sealed Bids must be received at the SLAAA office not later than 9:00am, Jan 23, 2018.

The City of St. Louis reserves the right to accept or reject any or all responses, waive any technicalities, or to cancel this request in part or in its entirety.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING WITH RESPECT TO LOW INCOME HOUSING TAX CREDIT QUALIFIED ALLOCATION PLAN

The Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC) will hold a public hearing on modifications to the Qualified Allocation Plan for administration of Low Income Housing Tax Credits. The hearings will be held as follows: Thursday, November 30, 2017 -- 6:00 p.m. Missouri Housing Development Commission (St. Louis Office) 505 7th St., 20th Floor, Suite 2000 St. Louis, MO 63101

All persons within the state of Missouri having an interest in the subject matter of the hearing will be given an opportunity to be heard on the date and place specified. MHDC recommends that all of those appearing in person provide written transcripts of their comments. Those unable to appear may send their written comments to the Missouri Housing Development Commission, 920 Main Street, Suite 1400, Kansas City, MO 64105. Written comments will be accepted through December 4, 2017. For a copy of the proposed plan, please see our web site at www.mhdc.com or request it from our office by calling Gus Metz at (816) 759-6878.

If you wish to attend this meeting and require special aid or services under the Americans with Disabilities Act, please notify Lynn Sigler at (816) 759-6822 at least three (3) working days prior to the meeting.

Kip Stetzler Executive Director Missouri Housing Development Commission

BID NOTICE

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

nership.com. The Authority reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive informalities therein. Any questions should be directed to Howl Bean II, Staff Attorney, St. Louis Economic Development Partnership at (314) 615-7663 or hbean@ stlpartnership.com.

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

Notice is hereby given that The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District (District) will receive sealed bids for Harmann Estates Pump Station (P-709) Replacement under Letting No. 12297015.1, at this office, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103, until

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

The St. Louis Economic Development Partnership (the “Partnership”) is soliciting proposals from qualified firms to provide liaison services with federal level governmental officials, agencies and elected representatives.

To be considered, proposals must be received no later than 3:00 PM on Friday, December 8, 2017. Proposals should be sent by e-mail to hbean@stlpartnership.com, or to St. Louis Economic Development Partnership, ATTN: Howl Bean II,

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

Paric Corporation has a project which is seeking proposal, Netrality Properties at 900 Walnut Street and 210 North Tucker Boulevard.

Netrality Properties at 900 Walnut Street and 210 N. Tucker Boulevard in St. Louis is one project across two locations. The project consists of some site work, first floor lobby renovations, and third and fifth floor MMR/Colocation data center improvements. Bids for this project should be broken out per location and are due on December 11, 2017 at 2:00 pm. For any questions or if you would like additional detailed information on this opportunity, please contact Paric Corporation at 636-561-9500 or bids@paric.com.

All bids should be delivered to Paric via e-mail (bids@paric.com) or fax (636-561-9501).

Plans and specifications will be available to view at Paric’s Main office at 77 Westport Plaza, Suite 250, St. Louis, MO 63146.

This project must adhere to the City of St. Louis Mayor’s Executive Order #28 as amended by Executive Order #47 requiring the following:

25% MBE business participation

5% WBE business participation

PARIC CORPORATION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Notice to MBE Businesses

Plocher Construction Company, Inc. 2808 Thole-Plocher Road Highland, IL 62249

PH: (618) 654-9408 Fax: (618) 654-6454 bids@plocherco.com

Seeking MBE (African American and Hispanic American) businesses for the MSD Fenton WWTF Headworks Gate Improvements for Union Subcontracting & Supply opportunities in the following areas:

Excavation, Shoring, Concrete, Rebar, Metals, Gates, Bypass Pumping

All interested and qualified business should contact Chuck Wagner (crwagner@plocherco.com) or Andrew Wirz (amwirz@plocherco.com) in writing or via email to discuss the subcontracting and supply opportunities. All quotes are requested to be received one day prior to the bid opening on December 14, 2017

All proposals will be reviewed for the lowest, responsive, and responsible quote.

MSD will host a non-mandatory Pre-Bid conference, including site visit. It will be held at 9:00 AM on Friday, November 17, 2017, at the Fenton WWTF located at 75 Opps Lane, Fenton, MO 63026

Plocher Construction will hold its own Prebid meeting on November 28th at 10:00am at Plocher’s office: 2808 Thole-Plocher Rd, Highland, IL.

Plans and Specifications are available for free electronic download. Please go to MSD’s website and look for a link to “ELECTRONIC PLANROOM.”

Sealed proposals will be received by the Board of Public Service in Room 208 City Hall, 1200 Market Street, St. Louis, Mo. Until 1:45 PM, CT, on December 19, 2017, then publicly opened and read. Plans and Specifications may be examined on the Board of Public Service website http://www.stl-bps.org/planroom.aspx (BPS On Line Plan Room) and may be purchased directly through the BPS website from INDOX Services at cost plus shipping. No refunds will be made.

A mandatory pre-bid conference

Notice To Small (SBE), Disadvantaged (DBE), Minority (MBE), Women’s (WBE), Service Disabled Veteran Owned (SDVOB) & Veteran Owned (VOB) Businesses Advertisement River City Construction, L.L.C., 6640 American Setter Drive, Ashland, Missouri 65010, (573) 657-7380 (Phone) (573) 657-7381 (Fax) Is Seeking Qualified Small, Disadvantaged, Minority, Women’s, Service Disabled Veteran Owned & Veteran Owned Businesses For The University of Missouri School of Music New Building AND General Site: School Of Music Extended Utilities, Columbia, Missouri for subcontracting opportunities in the following areas: asbestos, site work, excavation, paving, landscape, fencing, concrete, masonry, metals, rough carpentry, roofing, doors, glazing, painting, drywall, flooring, specialties, furnishings, fire suppression, conveying systems, plumbing, HVAC, electrical, communications, electronic security and utilities. All interested and qualified SBE, DBE, WBE, SDVOB, AND VOB businesses should contact, in writing, (certified letter, return receipt requested) Josh Sanders to discuss the subcontracting opportunities. All negotiations must be completed prior to the bid opening date of 12/14/2017 @ 1:30 PM. Proposals will be evaluated in order on the basis of low responsive bid received. CERTIFICATION OF DBE/WBE/MBE/SDVOB/VOB STATUS MUST BE SUBMITTED WITH BID. BID DOCUMENTS MAY BE OBTAINED BY:

1) Email your company name, contact name and phone number, as well as the project you are interested in to bid@rccllc.com

2) You will then receive an email invitation for that project with a link to our SmartBidNet system.

Procurement

Public Notice of Single Source Procurement

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure: Rebuild of Morris pump rotating assembly. The District is proposing single source procurement to Missouri Machinery & Engineering Company for this project. Any inquiries should be sent to ltreat@stlmsd.com.

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

INVITATION TO BID

McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. requests bids on Acrylic Panel Fabrication and Installation from qualified and certified MBE/DBE/WBE subcontractors for the following project: St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station

BID DATE: December 15, 2017 by 2:00 PM CST Contact: Mary Peterein at mpeterein@mccarthy.com or 314-9192171 for information

Prequalification is required and can be accessed at https://www.mccarthy.com/subcontractors

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

Request for Proposals (RFP)

The St. Louis Office for Developmental Disability Resources (DD Resources) is seeking proposals for ongoing IT support and planning. DD Resources is seeking 15-20 hours per month technical support. In addition, the bid should include the cost of providing consultation for developing short-term and long-term plans to enhance the present IT infrastructure. The full RFP may be viewed at www.stldd.org under the More Information Section. Electronic copies should be delivered to Leigh Noland by 4:30pm on December 22, 2017.

Therapy, (HOPWA) Housing Services Interested parties are encouraged to respond to the solicitation for proposal beginning Friday, November 17, 2017. An RFP packet may be obtained from Phillip Johnson, Secretary I, DOH, 1520 Market Avenue, Room 4027, by

Fully loaded in faith

Pastor Joel Osteen inspires COGIC with a practical, conversational message

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

There’s a line in the Donald Lawrence song “Encourage Yourself” that says “sometimes you have to encourage yourself, sometimes you have to speak victory during the test.”

Such was the case when Pastor Joel Osteen came to the stage to deliver the Friday night message for the Church of God In Christ 110th Annual Holy Convocation at the Dome at America’s Center on November 10.

As senior pastor of Lakewood Church, he leads one of the largest megachurches in the United States – with a weekly attendance of more than 50,000. The 15,000 or so saints who came to hear Osteen speak were fewer in number than the nearly 17,000 who regularly attend the Sunday morning service he holds in a building that was once home to The Houston Rockets.

But the nondenominational pastor who delivers a practical message in a soft voice knew that he was outside of his comfort zone with COGIC. He stood before a group of Pentecostals who normally have someone in the pulpit that will compel them to a shout with a booming voice filled with whoops and hollers.

“I realize that I can’t preach like Bishop Blake. I can’t sing like those amazing singers,” Osteen said. “But I can encourage someone. I can inspire a few people. I can smile – I’m good at that.”

The smile never left his face, and his voice was never raised.

“When I minister, I’m a little more conversational. I don’t get real loud or real excited,” Osteen told the crowd. “When I was growing up, I used to think that to be an effective minister – to be powerful – you had to be strong, dynamic, forceful and loud.” Osteen admitted that he held on to the podium for dear life when he delivered his first sermon at Lakewood so that the congregation couldn’t see him shaking with fear. He knew that he wasn’t loud and passionate like his father, but he settled in his own style once he realized that he didn’t

The Message God loves me, flaws and all

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

Humility is an essential ingredient of any Christian’s makeup, or at least it should be given our understanding of personal imperfection. A humble person would never look down upon, or somehow rationalize the thought that he or she is better than someone else.

Throughout the Bible there are countless references to living a life devoid of ego and pride. According to Paul, humility is a prerequisite for the presence of the Holy Spirit. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and selfcontrol … Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.” Galatians 5:22-26.

have to impersonate his father to continue Lakewood’s legacy and fulfill his own purpose in life and his role at the church.

“Over the years I learned that when you are who you are in God, you can be quiet and be powerful,” Osteen said. He shared how he inherited his father’s ministry and grew it beyond anyone’s imagination for a shy young man who worked behind the scenes with Lakewood’s film and television ministry for 17 years, then told how Lakewood came to acquire The Compaq Center as an illustration of the power of trusting God.

“You are fully loaded,” Osteen said. “When God created you, he gave you everything you needed to fulfill your destiny. God is a strategic God. God is precise. He’s intentional, down to the smallest detail.”

Osteen said that the saints should not compare their talents, successes or limitations to others.

“You did not get shortchanged. You are fully loaded and equipped for the race that has been designed for you,” Osteen said. “Quit wishing you were something different. When

you understand that you are fully loaded for the race that has been designed for you, instead of competing with people you will celebrate them.”

He said that they should see themselves as equipped for the purpose God gave them.

“This is why King Saul lost the throne,” Osteen said. “Instead of celebrating David, he became jealous. When we start competing with people, we get distracted. We lose our focus and we end up wasting energy on things that are not moving us towards our God-given destiny.”

Osteen never elicited a praise break of shouts from the audience, but the “amen” and “yes, Lord” statements signaling their approval of his word came in abundance.

“Run your race. When somebody passes you by, don’t be intimidated. Be inspired,” Osteen said. “If God did it for them, he can do it for you. If you can’t celebrate someone further along than you, you will never get to where they are. You are fully loaded. You are not at a deficit. You are full of potential, full of favor and full of faith.”

Conditioning yourself to live humbly is pretty difficult, particularly nowadays. We live in a world that measures the substance of a person by the accumulation of money, things, position and status. To obtain a humble state of mind as a matter of course can seem impossible, but in order to live according to the word of God, it is mandatory. “For whoever exalted himself will be humbled and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” Matthew 23:12. I think this is the reason Christ said, “He who is without sin cast the first stone.” Who would dare be arrogant enough not to humble himself in the eyes of God by not forgiving his fellow man’s transgressions? If there was ever a place where the concept of forgiveness is guaranteed, it’s the church. The church is not a perfect place either. Remember, falling and failing is inevitable. Getting up is not. As long as you ask the Holy Spirit for a helping hand, all can be forgiven. I’ve ruined so many opportunities, and yet so many blessings still come my way. The least I can do is to show up in church on Sunday to let others know this is a place to come and bring an imperfect life in search of the perfect truth.

Flaws and all, God loves me, and every now and then that’s something I need to be reminded of. Church is probably the best and only place where that can happen. The challenge is to remember you can never feel comfortable about casting that first stone.

Columnist James Washington

Photo by Wiley Price

Pastor Joel Osteen of Lakewood Church preached Friday, November 10 during the 110th annual Holy Convocation at The Dome at America’s Center.