November 3rd, 2016 Edition by The St. Louis American

Black turnout critical on Nov. 8

Robin Smith: ‘The black vote is pivotal in determining who wins and loses statewide races’

By Chris King Of The St. Louis American

Obama’s

reelection after four years of relentless Republican attacks and obstruction by Congress. According to a new Nielsen poll commissioned by the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies, Hillary Clinton should enjoy a similar black surge at the polls on Tuesday, November 8 when she faces Donald Trump for U.S. president. At all levels of education and income, in every region of the country, an overwhelming majority of black men and women told

ArchCity files ‘debtor’s prison’ suit against Florissant

Thomas Harvey: ‘These places have done real damage to people’s lives’

By Mariah Stewart and Ryan J. Reilly Of The Huffington Post

For the past several years, 47-year-old Meredith Walker has dreaded driving. Walker hasn’t had a moving violation in more than 15 years. But the St. Louis County resident still fears she could be pulled over and jailed at any time because she can’t afford to pay off her outstanding debts. She’s been jailed at least 10 times in just five years. “When I first got locked up, my child cried so hard, wondering when his mother would come home,” Walker, a teacher and a mother of two, said. “I will never forget my child crying on the phone because he didn’t know when I was coming home.” Walker said she even changed her hair because she believed she was stopped more frequently when she had dreadlocks. But despite paying over $15,000 in fees, court costs and bond forfeitures to various municipalities in St. Louis County – many of which derive large portions of their budgets from fines and fees – Walker’s license was suspended because a number of cities still say she owes them money for unpaid tickets.

“They are preying on communities that just don’t have the disposable income or family support to borrow the money,” Walker said. “It’s either you pay or go to jail. There’s no in between.” Walker is a plaintiff in a class action lawsuit filed on Monday, October 31 by ArchCity Defenders, a civil rights law firm based in St. Louis, against the City of Florissant. ArchCity Defenders has been involved in a number of similar lawsuits, including a recent suit

North County council seat on Nov. 8 ballot

Democrat Rochelle Walton Gray, fresh from primary victory, faces Republican Curtis Faulkner

By Chris King Of The St. Louis American

Rochelle Walton Gray – who won a major upset victory over longtime incumbent Mike O’Mara in the Democratic primary – faces Curtis Faulkner, registered as Republican, on the November 8 ballot for the 4th District seat on the St. Louis County Council, which covers the most northern portions of the county. The American asked both candidates the same questions about their candidacy; their answers are listed in the order received.

The St. Louis American: What skills and experience do you have that make you the best choice for this office?

Curtis Faulkner: As a social entrepreneur and promoter, I believe nothing happens until a sale is made and that politics is the negotiations art of who gets what, how much and when. The creation of policy stems from desires, protection or needs in the use of tax revenues and fees, to produce or accomplish specific outcomes and/or plans germane to the social harmony and economic viability of the territory being

governed. Thus, to be an effective council person, one has to have energy, creativity, articulation and integrity.

Rochelle Walton Gray: I possess a degree in Public Administration and I have been involved in the legislative process most of my adult life, as I have previously worked for an attorney and former legislator and I have been a state representative for the past eight years.

The American: What do you see as the most pressing issue or challenge facing North County?

Curtis Faulkner: Unifying residents and elected officials around establishing

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

Sisters Terri Benton and Odessa Walker cast their absentee votes at space rented by the St. Louis County election board Deer Creek Plaza, 3232 Laclede Station Rd. in Maplewood. Absentee voting continues through November 7. Election Day is Tuesday, November 8.

Meredith Walker

Curtis Faulkner

Rochelle Walton Gray

Mary J. Blige opens up about divorce on British talk show

After months of silence in the wake of her impending divorce from Kendu Isaacs after nearly 13 years of marriage, Mary J. Blige opened up on the UK talk show “Loose Women.”

“I’m in the thick of it. I’m in the middle of a divorce that’s everywhere (in the news),” Blige said. “It’s just how hard life is. It’s the pain, it’s the lawyers, it’s the ‘this,’ it’s the ‘that…’Not even knowing someone that you thought you knew for years is horrible.”

She also hinted at the opti mism of stepping into a new chapter of her life.

“There’s hope in it as well, because I have to keep the joy so I can live and survive,” Blige said. “I can’t just die with all the sadness, that’s why I’m here because I kept my joy. In spite of my pain and crying and releasing

everything onstage to my fans and us healing together, I kept my joy.”

Mariah wants $50M consolation prize after breakup

TMZ reportedly secured documents detailing the financial arrangement between pop diva Mariah Carey and former fiancé James Packer

According to the celebrity news and gossip site, Carey is expected to return every item ever given to her over the course of their courtship unless he sent her a signed note saying that it was a The prenuptial agreement reportedly states that Carey would receive $50M should the two split. TMZ says that she is demanding that Packer offer a breakup buyout of the amount listed in the original prenup – though the site hinted that Carey refused to sign off on it.

Carey was said to be putting the finishing touches on her wedding plans when the relationship dissolved – her dress was made, flowers were ordered and flights for all of the guests were secured.

TMZ says Packer’s camp attempted to sabotage the relationship after wedding plans moved forward in

spite of the fact that the prenuptial agreement had never been signed.

Bobby Brown says Nick Gordon belongs behind bars

Back in September, Nick Gordon was found legally responsible for the death of Bobbi Kristina Brown by default judgment after failing to show up for court

In an upcoming interview, Bobby Brown says Gordon should be in prison for his role in the tragedy that ultimately took the life of his only child with late ex-wife Whitney Houston.

On a teaser for an episode of the Dr. Oz Show, Bobby Brown explains, “We’re not after any money, I think he should be in prison,” Brown told Dr. Oz during a sit down interview that will air Thursday (Nov. 3). “On an everyday basis I still think about her and I still go through it. But I think I’m a lot more comfortable with knowing that she’s in a better place … she’s not in pain anymore, and I’m just grateful for that.”

Weezy takes heat for bashing Black Lives Matter

Lil Wayne was viciously roasted on social media for his recent comments about the Black

Lives Matter movement.

In an interview Tuesday with ABC’s “Nightline,” Lil Wayne said he does not feel connected to the social justice movement, which formed in recent years amid protests over the death of African Americans at the hands of law enforcement.

“I don’t feel connected to a [expletive] thing that ain’t got nothin’ to do with me,” he said.

The rapper said Black Lives Matter “just sounds weird.”

“I don’t know that you put a name on it,” he said. “It’s not a name, it’s not ‘whatever, whatever,’ it’s somebody got shot by a policeman for a [expletive] up reason.”

He also added, “I’m a young, black, rich [expletive]. If that don’t let you know that America understand.”

It’s not the first time the rapper has made controversial comments about race. In September, Lil Wayne appeared on the Fox Sports show “Skip and Shannon: Undisputed” and said, “I have never dealt with racism.”

The conversation began with the rapper being asked about the controversy surrounding NFL star Colin Kaepernick kneeling during the national anthem as a form of protest against institutional racism in the United States. Lil Wayne said that while he respected the athlete, someone had to explain to him why Kaepernick was even doing it.

Sources: CNN.com, TMZ.com,

Camp caters to families of prisoners

Retreat provides time to reflect and connect with others with same struggles

American staff

Ten St. Louis families left the Galleria mall headed for a special weekend getaway, October 14-15. The destination: Camp David of the Ozarks’ 7th bi-annual Prisoners’ Family Retreat in Rolla, Missouri.

They were among 13 families that participated in the weekend. The weekend was provided free of charge to the families who came. The moms and caregivers enjoyed a weekend, with no responsibilities, where they could reflect, share their stories, and gain new skills to start thriving in their time of loss.

“Over 350 families a week are having a loved sent to prison in Missouri,” said Camp Director Ben Smith. Smith pointed out that when most families experience a loss due to death, family and friends show up with cards and meals to show their love. However, when a family member is incarcerated, the community tends to pull away, leaving the family to deal with their grief and loss on their own.

More often than not it is a mom, aunt, or grandparent who picks up the responsibility of caring for the children, paying court costs, and making family visits to the prison. They carry all this with one less income provider.

“The moms of children with incarcerated parents, grandmas and other caretakers were invited to Camp David for a weekend retreat to relax and get ‘re-fueled,’ while the children concurrently enjoyed a fun time at camp,” said Kacie Starr Long, a host mom for

the retreat. “As a host mom, my job was to listen, serve and just love on the moms

and caretakers throughout the weekend.”

While the kids enjoyed

Monday, Nov. 14 | 6-8 p.m.

East St. Louis Jackie Joyner Kersee Center 101 Jackie Joyner Kersee Cir.

Alzheimer’s researchers and specialists discuss: Early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimers. Research updates on scientiﬁc breakthroughs. Caregiver resources.

Visit alz.org/stl or call 800.272.3900 for more information and to register.

Editorial /CommEntary

St. Louis American endorses

told us, “You make sure our local state senators have a fair opportunity to be heard and to reflect the voices of their constituents in the state Senate and not be strongarmed or shut down in ways that are contrary to Senate rules.” That is exactly what we need now. We strongly endorse Russ CaRnahan foR lieutenant goveRnoR.

tishaura o. Jones for st. louis treasurer

Tishaura O. Jones has only nominal opposition for her reelection as St. Louis treasurer on the November 8 ballot – she earned more than 30,000 votes more than her Republican and Green opponents combined in the August 2 primary – but we don’t want to miss an opportunity to endorse one of the city’s most impressive elected officials. Among her signature accomplishments have been fostering financial literacy and using her office’s control of city parking revenues to open child college savings accounts for children in the Saint Louis Public Schools. She understands that St. Louis has a crisis with unbanked and underbanked households –especially among black families – and some of the nation’s laxest laws to curb predatory lenders, so she worked with the mayor to open an Office of Financial Empowerment in City Hall. She also understands that even the most modest child college savings accounts improve the likelihood that the child will actually attend and complete college, which is required for almost all decentpaying jobs in the 21st century economy. We can’t name any citywide elected official in St. Louis who has done more public good with the powers of their office in such a short period of time. Like many observers of the looming mayoral race, we don’t expect that her current office is the pinnacle of her ambitions as a public servant, but she certainly deserves the public’s firm support to remain

Vote on Tuesday, NoV. 8

in this office if she chooses. We strongly endorse tishauRa o. Jones foR st. louis tReasuReR.

Rochelle Walton gray for st. louis County Council

Rochelle Walton Gray won a major upset victory over entrenched 4th District St. Louis County Councilman Mike O’Mara in the Democratic primary, and has a Republican opponent in the general

election who clearly hopes to pick up disaffected white Democratic voters nursing a grudge over O’Mara’s defeat. Gray, as a former state legislator, has a much greater grasp of legislative process and more experience serving constituents than her opponent. We expect she will be more effective on the policy side and more responsive regarding constituent services, which is especially important in the 4th District, the most northern part of the county with a great number of unincorporated areas that rely on county government

for municipal services. We strongly endorse RoChelle Walton gRaY foR st. louis CountY CounCil DistRiCt 4

Constitutional amendments and propositions

There are five proposed constitutional amendments on the November 8 ballot, as well as some propositions. We already have editorialized at length to vote no on

Constitutional amenDment 3 (a Big Tobacco-funded Trojan horse that appears to merely hike cigarette taxes to pay for early childhood education, but has many troubling provisions) and no on Constitutional amenDment 6 (an unneeded voter photo ID requirement that would disenfranchise some 220,000 students, elders and lowincome people). In general, we suggest erring on the side of rejecting constitutional amendments, since if passed they force revisions in the state constitution – often of complex measures that deserve the scrutiny of the legislative process, rather than an up or down vote by the general public, who almost never have read and comprehended the full legal text of the proposed amendment.

We encourage a vote of Yes on Constitutional amenDment 1, which would renew for 10 years a one-tenth of one present sales/ use tax that is used to fund state parks and soil and water conservation.

We encourage a vote of Yes on Constitutional amenDment 2, which would establish much-needed limits on political campaign contributions for state and judicial offices. We encourage a vote of no on Constitutional amenDment 4 which would prohibit new local sales or use taxes.

We encourage a vote of no on PRoPosition a, which Missouri Petroleum Marketers and the Convenience Store Operators Association are pushing as a bait-and-switch measure that appears merely to raise cigarette taxes to pay for transportation infrastructure, but has other troubling provisions.

We encourage a vote of Yes on PRoPosition s, which would hike property taxes five cents per $100 of assessed property value to establish a services fund for residents age 60-plus to help them remain in their homes.

Take a deep breath. Exhale. Repeat, until the anxiety attack passes. Then go vote, and soon our long national nightmare will be over.

FBI Director James Comey’s “October surprise” decision to cast last-minute shade over Hillary Clinton, based on emails he and his agents had not even read, was appallingly unfair. But there’s nothing to be done about that now – and no reason to believe it will change the fundamental shape of the race, which has been remarkably consistent. Donald Trump remains on track to lose, and the question is by how much. The only way he could possibly win is if Democrats and other “Never Trump” voters stay home on Election Day out of complacency. Comey’s intervention should have eliminated that possibility. Look what happened Friday after his letter about the emails was made public: The Dow Jones industrial average reacted as if to a natural disaster, plunging about 150 points before slowly recovering when it was learned that this latest twist grew out of the Anthony Weiner investigation. In other words, the thought that Trump might actually be elected touched off a momentary panic. Then the realization that this remains quite unlikely coaxed investors down from the ceiling. Nothing concentrates the mind like a glimpse into the abyss. To state the obvious, this is not a normal election. Democrats have nominated the first woman to head a majorparty ticket, a controversial figure with vast experience who has been on the national stage for three decades. Republicans have nominated the worst candidate in modern history, a know-nothing narcissist who lies constantly, treats women

like possessions, and appeals not to the better angels of our nature but to the worst bigotry and resentment. One candidate surely would be a competent president, perhaps a very good one. The other would be an unmitigated disaster.

his many disqualifying faults, is depressing but should not be defeating. Our political leaders will have the task of finding some way to knit the nation back together. But the immediate imperative is keeping our fate out of Trump’s hands.

In that sense, this election

n Do you want a lifelong public servant with an encyclopedic grasp of the

That has to be the bottom line: Who’s going to be sitting in the Oval Office, making the life-or-death decisions that come with being the most powerful individual on earth?

Do you want a lifelong public servant with an encyclopedic grasp of the issues, or a buffoon guided only by his own prejudices?

The fact that more than 40 percent of voters will choose Trump anyway, regardless of

has never really been about Clinton, her history, her husband or her emails. It has never even been about her many exceptional qualities or her legions of enthusiastic supporters, as evidenced by the fact that she won nearly 16 million votes in the primaries – about 2.5 million more than Trump. Next Tuesday’s vote is primarily about the fact that she

stands between us and the grave risk of a Trump presidency. Fortunately, most voters seem to understand. In the Real Clear Politics average of national polls, since the two candidates wrapped up their nominations Trump has held a lead over Clinton for all of two days -- July 29 and 30, when Trump was enjoying a boost following the Republican National Convention. Since then, Clinton has held a clear lead – sometimes bigger, sometimes smaller, but uninterrupted. Likewise, in the swing states that will decide the election, Trump has never shown signs in the polls of coming close to the kind of clean sweep he would need to win an electoral majority. Clinton could lose both Ohio and Florida – which have gone back and forth – and still win comfortably. Moreover, she has put traditionally Republican states such as Arizona, North Carolina and perhaps even Georgia into play. The ideal outcome would be a Clinton landslide in which the country thoroughly and unambiguously rejected Trump and all that he stands for. The unfortunate outcome of Comey’s announcement may be to make this less likely. Before Friday, Trump was flailing and his supporters were becoming demoralized as defeat seemed certain. Now Trump has a closing argument and the crowds at his rallies can dream once more of stunning the political world. But those who want to see Clinton win and those who want to see Trump lose also should be newly energized and motivated. They have a clear advantage in support. They have a vastly superior getout-the-vote operation. They have far more viable ways to assemble the necessary 270 electoral votes. So stop obsessing. Breathe. And vote. Eugene Robinson’s email address is eugenerobinson@ washpost.com.

Rock the Vote marching band showdown

McCluer South-Berkeley Marching Bulldogs will present the Rock the Vote BOTB – Showdown at 4 p.m. Sunday, November 6 in the McCluer South-Berkeley High School Gymnasium.

In addition to the competition, the schools’ marching bands will come together to play the national anthem together and a few other tunes to show a sense unity.

“The purpose of the event is for fundraising effort so that we can travel and to promote voting awareness for this upcoming election,” said Terrell Stringer, head band instructor at McCluer South-Berkeley High School. “There will be a voting registration booth on site.”

Advance tickets are $5; tickets at the door are $7. For more information, email tstringer@fergflor.org or call 314-333-9577.

New BJC scholarship supports Ferguson Commission findings

In response to regional community needs identified by the Ferguson Commission, BJC HealthCare is creating a new scholarship opportunity for college-bound high school seniors who plan to pursue a two- or four-year degree.

The BJC Scholars Fund will be funded by BJC and administered by The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis. Scholarships will be awarded annually to up to 14 students in communities served by BJC hospitals: St. Louis; St. Louis County; Columbia, Farmington/Bonne Terre and Sullivan, Missouri; and the Metro East. Scholarships will be renewable through graduation or a maximum of 10 semesters, resulting in 50-60 BJC Scholars being funded each year when the program reaches full implementation.

Each scholarship will be a need-based award of up to $10,000

per academic year at a public Missouri or Illinois state college or university in the state where the student resides. The annually renewable scholarship will be applicable toward tuition, fees, room and board, transportation and incidental costs. The Scholarship Foundation will support students and parents in taking full advantage of other state, federal and institutional funds to which students are entitled, to ensure that the BJC scholarship award completes the funding required for full year attendance.

The application window is January 1 to April 15, 2017. The Scholarship Foundation will begin communications and visits to high schools in eligible communities in November. For more information, email kkitson@bjc.org.

Why I support Hillary Clinton

By Darlene Green Guest columnist

I wholeheartedly support Hillary Clinton for president of the United States because she trumps her opponents in experience, expertise on the issues, and commitment to enhance the lives of working families and children.

While her Republican rival’s primary goal has been to amass wealth, Clinton has chosen to enrich the lives of others. To gain a true sense of her character and aspirations, consider where her professional career began. After graduating from law school, she took a job with the Children’s Defense Fund. She could have selected a more prestigious or lucrative job, but instead she followed her passion and worked on behalf of children. Long before she became first lady of Arkansas, or moved into the White House, she chose to invest her talents into public service.

As first lady, her activism, compassion, and determination led to expanded healthcare benefits for children. As president, she would maintain that same compassionate concern for the most vulnerable in our society. We can expect her to remain an ardent advocate of policies that uplift working families and children. She would press hard for legislation that bolsters the welfare of all segments of society, not just the privileged few at the top. When she wins, we win.

Clinton is far better prepared than her challengers to assume the role of commander in chief. Her resume includes stints in both the executive and legislative branches of government. She has worked as an attorney, a law professor, a U.S. senator and secretary of state. Although she may lack the campaigning prowess of her predecessors, she excels in her understanding of complex issues and she is a fighter. She recognizes what must be done to create jobs, to protect our nation and to make higher education more affordable. She provides specific solutions rather than nebulous assertions. Hillary Clinton possesses the steadiness and the readiness to be president of the United States.

I support Hillary Clinton because she is the most qualified candidate for the job. Yet, we cannot overlook the groundbreaking nature of her campaign. As the first female commander in chief, she would bring the spirit of a caring nurturer to the Oval Office. She would anticipate how her policies could affect the next generations. Her presidency would be historic and transformational. She would finally break through the glass ceiling that has barred women from ascending to the most powerful post in the world.

Hillary Clinton is my choice for president because of her extensive government experience, her superior command of the issues and her life-long commitment to public service. I urge voters to support her on Election Day, November 8. Darlene Green is comptroller of the City of St. Louis.

Darlene Green

VOTE

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pollsters they saw the 2016 race as a high-stakes election (though the higher the level of education, the more likely a person planned to vote).

Not surprising, given that nearly a dozen women have come forward claiming that Trump sexually assaulted them (which he denied, in every instance), more black women (87 percent) than black men (80 percent) said they believed the 2016 presidential election’s outcome would be very important. The report notes that “high incarceration rates and felon disenfranchisement” for black men also helps to account for the gender disparity.

The poll confirmed the widespread impression that black millennials are less motivated to vote in this election than older African Americans. Nearly all blacks age 65 and over polled – 98 percent – said they consider this election “very important,” while only 80 percent of those between 18-29 made that judgment.

And, a good sign for Missouri’s other statewide Democratic candidates, blacks in the Midwest polled were more likely to say they planned to vote than blacks in other parts of the country – 90 percent in the Midwest, compared to 89 percent in the Northeast, 84 percent in the South and 83 percent in the West.

In Missouri, there are close races for governor, U.S. senator, attorney general, secretary of state and state treasurer on the November 8 ballot. Robin Smith, who faces the son of John Ashcroft for secretary of state, stands a chance of becoming the first African American elected to statewide office in Missouri, creating another incentive for black voters in Missouri.

“We are seeing that AfricanAmerican voters are energized by my candidacy, which will make history for all persons

of color,” Smith told The American. Other Democratic candidates will benefit from her campaign’s outreach to black voters as well. “Studies of electoral patterns have shown that, for U.S. president and U.S. Senate seats and all the way down the ballot, the African-American vote is critical to Democrats winning,” Smith said.

Black turnout is particularly critical to Missouri Democrats on November 8 because polling on many of the races – including governor and U.S. senator – are incredibly close.

State Senator Jamilah Nasheed supports Chris Koster, a Democrat, for governor because he has pledged to fully fund the public schools foundation formula and expand health care to benefit from billions in federal funds available to states that expand Medicaid.

“Polls are neck-and-neck,” Nasheed told The American “That’s why it’s critical for the black community in St. Louis to vote on November 8.”

Gwen Reed, Spanish Lake Township committeewoman, made the same appeal for Jason Kander, who has received tremendous national attention for polling even with Republican incumbent U.S. Senator Roy Blunt.

“Don’t stop at the top,” Reed urged voters. “Vote all the way down the ballot.”

Teresa Hensley, Democratic nominee for Missouri attorney general, was unequivocal about the importance of the black vote.

“Outside of the urban areas and university towns, this is a Trump state,” Hensley told The American. “No Democrat, including me, will be elected in Missouri in November unless African Americans come out to the polls and vote. The consequence of not voting in this election means my opponent could win. He has already broadcast his willingness to put his personal beliefs above enforcing the laws of this state fairly and equally.”

contingencies in place to handle the situation.”

Nevertheless, the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund is working with the Mound City Bar Association, the MacArthur Justice Center at St. Louis and other groups to protect against voter intimidation at local polls. The night before the election, on Monday, November 7, they will hold a training at the MacArthur Justice Center, 3115 S. Grand Blvd. suite 300.

Contact Vic Wu at NAACPLDF (vwu@naacpldf.org) to sign up. On election day, they will staff polling places to help educate voters and monitor polls.

“This has been a year of intolerance, fear-mongering and runaway special interests,” Judy Baker, Democratic candidate for state treasurer, told The American. “The only way we deliver our message of tolerance, diversity, and opportunity for all is to VOTE!”

Trump calls for poll trolls

Well aware that a large majority of black and Latino voters oppose him, Trump has encouraged his supporters to monitor polls “in certain areas,” which was understood to be code for precincts with a large majority of minority voters.

Roger Stone, a Trump supporter, also founded Stop the Steal in April to recruit “vote protectors” to conduct exit polls in “targeted localities that we believe the Democrats could manipulate based on their local control,” according to its website. This was called “vigilante voter intimidation” in a suit the Pennsylvania Democratic Party filed against Trump, Stone and his political action committee in federal court.

The suit claims that “Trump’s calls for unlawful intimidation have grown louder and louder, and the conspiracy to harass and threaten voters on Election Day has already resulted in acts that threaten

the voting rights” of registered voters.

The Trump campaign, which has an online sign-up form for “Trump election observers,” said it has been following the law and is “not affiliated” with Stone’s group.

Eric Fey, Democratic director of elections for St. Louis County, said the election board has received a few calls from people either concerned about the potential for “Trump poll watchers” or from folks wanting to know how to be a “poll watcher.”

“We have reassured folks that state law strictly limits the types of people who can be in a polling place and that official political party observers (they are referred to as ‘challengers’ under Missouri law) must be appointed by the chairperson of the political party and subsequently authorized by the election board,” Fey said.

“Our election judges are well briefed on who is and who is not allowed inside the polling place. If an unauthorized person tries to enter a polling place we have

Though demographic data are not available, Fey said that the absentee ballot count suggests that the overall voter turnout in 2016 will be comparable to 2012.

“To this point, we have had 40,760 absentee ballots cast; 20,425 have been cast in person and 20,329 through the mail,” Fey said late afternoon on November 1. “The in-person numbers are a bit ahead of 2012 by about 1,000 votes, but the mail-in numbers are trailing 2012 by a similar amount.”

Mary Wheeler-Jones, Democratic director of elections for St. Louis, said city absentee voters are behind their pace in Obama’s two elections. As of November 1, the city election board had received about 6,000 absentee ballots cast, with about 3,000 of those walk-ins. She said there were about 7,000 walk-in absentee voters in 2012 and about 8,000 in 2008.

City election officials have no concerns about Trump poll trolls. “The poll workers are very informed as to who can and cannot be in the polling places,” Wheeler-

Jones said. “We also will have roving deputy poll workers who will be checking on the polling places in each wards for electioneering or any problems or concerns, as we do for all elections.”

Jason Kander – the current secretary of state who could become the first millennial elected to the U.S. Senate – has unveiled a new online Missouri Voter Outreach Center. It allows voters to view their candidates and measures that will appear on their ballot, find their districts and look up their polling place in one location. Visit VoterOutreach.sos. mo.gov.

One initiative on the November 8 ballot will make it more difficult to vote in Missouri if it passes. Constitutional Amendment 6 would require the stateissued photo ID to vote in future elections, which would disenfranchise what Kander estimated as 220,000 people.

“If the African-American community does not vote all the way down the ballot, we can be assured this is the last year some of us will be voting at all in Missouri,” Judy Baker said. “Vote NO on Amendment 6. Let’s keep our government and our constitutional rights intact.”

Robin Smith, who hopes to succeed Kander as the state’s top election official has been working especially hard to reach black voters and to get them to vote their way down the ballot.

“The black vote is pivotal in determining who wins and loses statewide races,” Smith said. “Statistical data and modeling prove that a strong turnout by the AfricanAmerican community will be the deciding factor in 2016, and that’s why Hillary Clinton, Rev. Emanuel Cleaver and my team are focusing with laser precision on turning out the vote in both the St. Louis and Kansas City metro areas, of course, but also turning out the African-American vote in Columba, Springfield and even far-reaching corners like Haiti, Missouri.”

Robin Smith, Democratic candidate for Missouri secretary of state (center), with U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver and her husband, Isaac “Bud” Stallworth. Smith said that Cleaver, her campaign team and Hillary Clinton “are focusing with laser precision on turning out” the black vote in Missouri on November 8.

Photo courtesy of Robin Smith

FLORISSANT

Continued from A1

against 13 other St. Louis County municipalities, and won a settlement with the city of Jennings, which also borders Ferguson, over the same type of conduct alleged in Florissant. A separate lawsuit against the City of Ferguson is pending.

Florissant is the largest municipality in St. Louis County by population, with over 52,000 residents.

Although African Americans make up less than 30 percent of the population in Florissant, they are pulled over, searched and arrested much more often than whites, even though police are much less likely to find contraband when they do search them compared to whites, according to a study

COUNCIL

Continued from A1 a territorial marketable brand for growing and seeking new revenues. This, in concert with sustaining accreditation and solvency of the second-largest school district in the county go hand–in-hand with regeneration of housing values.

Rochelle Walton Gray: Economic development and workforce development. Small business as well as big business is important to boosting the economy and increasing employment. However, adequate education for everyone is very important as well. We need to properly train and prepare people to enter into the workforce.

The American: The 4th Council District has a diverse population, and the outgoing incumbent had been criticized for not representing everyone. How to you plan to insure everyone feels represented by your office?

from Better Together. Over the past five years, Florissant has earned more than $12 million from its municipal court fines and costs, according to the lawsuit.

Florissant issued over 28,000 arrest warrants in 2015, an average of 1.3 arrest warrants per household and nearly one warrant for every adult. The city collected more than $2.3 million in court fines, fees and forfeited bond payments that year, according to the lawsuit.

Walker, who’s been jailed in Florissant several times, described the conditions inside Florissant’s jail as “deplorable.” She said she was exposed to unsanitary conditions and that there was no privacy for restroom use with male guards present.

The lead plaintiff, Thomas Baker, a 41-year-old former U.S. Army reservist and father

Curtis Faulkner: I’ve found most residents want to embrace fresh ideas and are passionately committed to representation with bridgebuilding capabilities. Given that county government engages municipalities, it’s also a sub-division of state governance. As founding director of the Juneteenth Heritage & Jazz Festival, I’ve also been a lobbyist and work with legislators and leaders of both parties across the state for passage of legislation and executive orders to strengthen a foundation for a heritage and cultural opportunity to improve race relations and positively impact local and state revenues.

Rochelle Walton Gray: As a legislator, I see firsthand the various needs and challenges faced by the residents of North County and have witnessed the lack of accessibility from the current council person and the need to address constituent issues. While I have and will continue to do my best to address these needs, there is sometimes the need to

of three, has been jailed in Florissant approximately 15 times. On top of high bonds (anywhere from $600 to $1,2000) to secure his release, Baker said no cups were allowed in the jail and so he was forced to drink from a “toilet basin” located inches above the toilet bowl.

The suit claims that inmates in Florissant “are not given adequate hygiene products for menstruation; are routinely denied vital medical care and prescription medication, even when their families beg to be allowed to bring medication to the jail; are provided food so insufficient and lacking in nutrition that

n “They are preying on communities that just don’t have the disposable income or family support to borrow the money.”

– Meredith Walker

inmates lose significant amounts of weight; suffer from dehydration out of fear of drinking foul smelling water dispensed from an apparatus covered in blood and mucus on top of the toilet.” Jail guards, the suit claims, “routinely taunt impoverished people when they are unable to pay for their release.” The lawsuit says that the plaintiffs were “held in jail indefinitely without either the legal representation of the inquiry into their ability to pay guaranteed by the United States Constitution. Instead, they were threatened, abused, and left to languish in confinement until their frightened family

engage the various forms of government. My current and future staff is well trained as to how to manipulate through the complexities of county, state and federal government. I have an open-door policy, and constituent concerns have been and will always be a priority in my office.

The American: Education is not a responsibility of county government, but the quality of public education is fundamental to the vitality of any community. What role should county government play in supporting public education?

Curtis Faulkner: Having served 18 years on multiple committees of the Hazelwood School District, I know firsthand the many challenges in providing both educational and social services in modern educational institutions. As with justice, education is now an affordable commodity. Thus, to sustain both accreditation and solvency a district must work with all governmental bodies as a partner in local efforts of economic stability

and community-building. I will continue to work with my district in assuring this and their success.

Rochelle Walton Gray:

By making sure that the voices and the concerns of the parents and students are heard by the local school administrators. I have had to deal with many situations within the surrounding school districts that required my intervention and, in most cases, was able to come to a resolution that was best for all concerned.

The American: County government is the municipal government for unincorporated St. Louis County. How do you plan to insure that unincorporated North County receives appropriate and sufficient municipal services?

Curtis Faulkner: I reside in an unincorporated subdivision. Like other areas of the district that pay their fair share of taxes, they too require attention and timely services. Many are now organizing among themselves to leverage their

members produced enough cash to buy their freedom or until city jail officials decided, days or weeks later, to release them free of charge – after it had become clear the city would not be able to extract any money from them.”

Thomas Harvey, co-founder of Arch City Defenders, said the firm’s successful suit shows that the problems brought to light in Ferguson are widespread throughout St. Louis County.

“I think the only real way is for this whole municipal court system to go away,” Harvey said. “That would be a meaningful change in our clients’ lives and the peoples’ lives who have lived in terror of these police departments and these courts for 50 years.”

Harvey also said he believed it was very important for those who had been unlawfully jailed by

value to the county, and I support their efforts and share their concerns.

Rochelle Walton Gray:

Over the years, I have met with several community leaders, community organizations, neighborhood associations and church leaders. In doing so, I am much more aware of the needs of the district than my opponent. However, I will continue to communicate with these entities to better formulate my agenda during my tenure in office. My progress towards addressing these issues has been hindered by the fact that I worked at the state level and needed assistance from the county in order to get things taken care of. Now, I will be able to personally request these services, ensuring that my constituents’ voices are no longer ignored.

The American: In your view, what’s your opponent’s biggest liability or weakness?

Curtis Faulkner: I don’t know my opponent personally

municipalities in St. Louis County to receive settlements based on the impact of those jail stays.

“These places have done real damage to people’s lives, and that damage won’t be undone just because they say we’re not going to do this again in the future,” Harvey said. Significant monetary settlements will take away incentives for municipalities to use their courts as revenue generators, according to Harvey.

“I don’t think that should be ignored,” he said. “The DOJ’s agreement in Ferguson doesn’t include any damages for these folks, and we’re going to pursue damages.”

story is published as part

but, from what I’ve observed in her years in state government, I see too much of a sense of symbolism and a lack of creativity, charisma and independence.

Rochelle Walton Gray: Currently Missouri is being run by a Republican legislature, and there is no room for another Republican elected official in this state, especially in North County. Republicans have little compassion or understanding for the needs of the people that they serve. Republicans have cut unemployment, cut funding for arts and education, and attempted to remove the circuit breaker exemption for certain seniors. They blocked Medicaid expansion, supported voter photo ID, made it easier for companies to discriminate against its employees and continually give huge tax breaks to large corporations while asking the average citizen to pay more taxes. A vote for my opponent, is a vote for big business owners, higher taxes and fewer services.

This

of a partnership between The St. Louis American and The Huffington Post.

Roy Blunt has the experience and leadership

By Rev. Charles J. Brown Guest columnist

This November 8, Missourians across the state

will cast their ballots in an election that will have a lasting impact on the future of St. Louis, Missouri and our nation as a whole. For the last six years, we have been fortunate to have a senator like Roy Blunt who fights for the issues we care most about. Whether he is working in a bipartisan manner to cut though gridlock or creating more good-paying jobs for stronger families, no one is more well-equipped than Roy Blunt to position our city to take advantage of the great opportunities ahead.

There is no question that St. Louis has a great work force, but far too many families are struggling to find goodpaying jobs. Blunt’s number one priority is creating better jobs for stronger families, and he works closely with local business owners and their employees so that hardworking Missourians have every opportunity to take care of their families and be successful.

As a member of the Senate Intelligence committee, Blunt played a pivotal role in keeping the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency (NGA) in St. Louis. In his usual bipartisan manner, Blunt worked closely with local, state, and federal officials to ensure the NGA and its 3,000 plus employees will continue providing the military with the information it needs to keep our nation safe.

Blunt has also played a key role in making sure job creators like Boeing have the incentive to create even more jobs in St. Louis. In 2014, Blunt successfully secured funding to extend deliveries for the F-18, which are produced by the 15,000 hardworking employees at the Boeing facility in St. Louis. And just this month, Blunt attended the ribbon cutting ceremony for

Boeing’s new 777X Composite Wing Center, a great example that demonstrates his bipartisan commitment to creating more good-paying jobs in St. Louis.

Blunt is also leading efforts to keep utility bills low, which will give families more disposable income and help struggling families keep the lights on. Blunt is doing everything he can to stop a misguided rule that would double Missourians utility rates and kill jobs. With Blunt in the Senate for another six years, he will work hard to prevent our utility bills from doubling, which would protect countless families from having to make additional difficult decisions.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), about one in four adults suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder each year nationwide, an alarming statistic Blunt often mentions when discussing his groundbreaking work to expand access to mental health treatment. His bipartisan legislation, the Excellence in Mental Health Act,

expanded access to community mental health services and strengthened the quality of care for those living with mental illness. Reelecting Blunt will give him the opportunity to continue his fight to bring mental health treatment in line with the way all other health is treated.

There are few elected officials who have accomplished more for our community. Since he was elected to the Senate, Blunt has repeatedly demonstrated in a bipartisan manner that he is committed to our city. From creating more goodpaying for stronger families or working across the aisle to deliver real results, Blunt has the experience and leadership that is needed to make sure St. Louis can take advantage of the great opportunities ahead. That is why it is critical that we reelect Blunt to the Senate this November.

Rev. Charles J. Brown is pastor at Mount Airy Missionary Baptist Church.

Muni League of Metro STL calls for city to reenter county

Proposes city join county as independent 91st municipality

American staff

On Thursday, October 27, the Executive Board of the Municipal League of Metro St. Louis introduced to their members a policy supporting the City of St. Louis re-entering St. Louis County as the region’s 91st municipality.

The policy states that unless significant steps are taken to improve the opportunity to create new jobs and attract new businesses to our metropolitan area, there will not be sufficient resources to sustain the multi-

city structure of the county. The board believes that the re-entry of St. Louis into the county will encourage a more coordinated regional strategy toward economic growth and development.

The re-entry proposal, which is not a full city-county merger, maintains local control of municipal services such as police, fire, public works and local land use and zoning.

“This would be the first step in opening the door to new sources of revenue, jobs and businesses in the St. Louis metropolitan area,” said League president Barry Glantz.

In light of a 50-year declining trend in the region’s economic base and population, the League believes there is a pressing need to generate economic growth and create collaboration among city and county elected officials and

businesses. The re-entry proposal also aims to revise crime and violence statistics based solely on city populations. Unlike many other American metropolitan areas that hold municipal status within their surrounding counties, St. Louis is its own county and the national ranking is calculated based solely on the St. Louis city population of 318,727. Pat Kelly, executive director of the League, cited 2014-2015 FBI crime data reports that rank St. Louis city No. 1 in the country for violent crime. However, if you look at the greater St. Louis Metropolitan Statistical Area, which includes the city and county, St. Louis drops down to 87th out of 368 metro areas in the nation for violent crimes. For more information, visit stlmuni.org.

Two trustee seats on community college board up for grabs

American staff

Filing for the Subdistrict 1 and 2 seats on the St. Louis Community College Board of Trustees opens at 8 a.m. Tuesday, December 13.

The Subdistrict 1 seat is currently held by Derek Novel, who was appointed by the board following the resignation of Candace Gardner in 2016. The Subdistrict 2 seat is currently held by incumbent Hattie Jackson, who was elected to the board in 2011.

Filing for the two seats closes at 5 p.m. Tuesday, January 17, 2017. An election will take place April 4, 2017, to fill the seats. The winner of the Subdistrict 1 seat will serve a three-year term and the winner of the Subdistrict 2 seat will serve a six-year term.

St. Louis Community

College is governed by six board members representing the four subdistricts of the college service area and one appointed board member.

Subdistrict 1 includes the Hazelwood, Ferguson/ Florissant, Riverview Gardens, Jennings, Pattonville, Ritenour, University City, Normandy, Clayton and Ladue school districts.

Subdistrict 2’s approximate boundaries extend from the northern limits of St. Louis City south along the city limit to Oakland Avenue; southeast from Kingshighway along Park, 39th, Jefferson and Osage to Interstate 55 and Gasconade; east on Gasconade to the Mississippi River; and north along the river back to its starting point.

Individuals seeking the trustee seats must be at least

21 years of age and must be a resident voter of Subdistrict 1 or 2 for at least one year before the April 4 election. Each declaration of candidacy must be notarized before it is returned to the office of the associate for board relations at the Joseph P. Cosand Community College Center, 300 S. Broadway. Declarations of candidacy and a description of the subdistricts are available in the office of the associate for board relations at the Cosand Center. The office is open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. MondayFriday; however, it will be closed from December 23, 2016, through January 3, 2017. For more information, contact Rebecca Garrison, associate for board relations, at 314-539-5154.

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Rev. Charles J. Brown and Senator Roy Blunt.

Why experience matters in choice of attorney general

Teresa Hensley, a Democrat from Raymore (in the Kansas City metropolitan area), faces Republican Josh Hawley (who graduated from high school in Kansas City) on the November 8 ballot. Hensley spoke to The American about their comparative experience and qualifications for the position and her belief that alternate courts can be used statewide to keep more nonviolent offenders out of Missouri’s overcrowded prisons. She also called attention to her opponent’s brash statements that he would use the office to further his personal political ideology, which include opposition to abortion, STEM cell research and same-sex marriages.

general’s office has done murder cases, child sex abuse cases, child endangerment cases, along with tax fraud and consumer fraud.

The St. Louis American: What are the essential functions of the office of Missouri attorney general?

Teresa Hensley: The attorney general is the top law enforcement official in the state. The office has over 180 attorneys, with five offices around the state. Those attorneys go into court daily around the state. For instance, in the last 60 days the attorney

The office also assists the 115 elected prosecutors in the state when they request assistance. Some outer, rural counties may not have the resources to prosecute murder or child sex cases, or the local prosecutor may have a legal conflict of interest and ask the attorney general to step in. The office is also responsible for fighting to uphold every felony conviction that all of these prosecutors have gained. It’s important to understand that for all murder or child sex cases where there are convictions, the attorney general’s office handles those cases in appeals. So if you’re going to be attorney general, you need to be able to handle those cases and you ought to have been in Missouri courts handling Missouri criminal cases.

My opponent has never represented a single client or victim in a Missouri court. I’ve been an attorney practicing

in alternate treatment programs – DWI courts, drug courts, mental health courts, and veterans courts. We send way too many people to prison for drug abuse and mental health issues. We know that treatment courts work in counties that have them. As attorney general, I would try to make them available throughout the state so we are not filling our prisons with mental health or drug cases.

in Missouri for almost 25 years now, with 14 years in private practice representing real people in real courts, and as elected prosecutor in Cass County for 10 years. As prosecutor for 10 years, I won 21 murder convictions out of 21 cases, I prosecuted hundreds of violent crimes, and I won over 500 convictions for sexual

assault, domestic violence or child sex abuse – and these are “he said, she said” cases where there is little evidence to corroborate what victims say. I made a priority of victim advocacy.

While I had a lot of felony convictions and sent a lot of people to prison for committing heinous crimes, I also believe

wants him to be attorney general?

The American: Your opponent, Josh Hawley, has really never worked one case in a Missouri court? Teresa Hensley: Let’s talk about his resume. He’s had a bar license for 10 years. Out of law school, he went to work for two federal judges. Then he worked at a large firm in D.C. and was there less than three years. To be in a law office for just over two years, I doubt, at a big firm like that, they gave him much responsibility. Then he’s been a law professor. That’s what he’s done. That’s it. He’s never represented a client or sat with a victim.

To run an office with over 180 attorneys, you ought to have experience hiring, training and supervising attorneys. As Cass County prosecutor, I trained more than 20 attorneys. On the November 8 ballot, folks are looking at Republican nominees for both governor and attorney general who have never held public office – not as an alderman or committeeman or anything. They have no experience handling government or a budget. When I was a prosecutor, I started in 2005 with a $1.3 million budget and ended in 2014 with a $1.3 million budget. So I started and ended with the same budget and the same number of employees and attorneys, yet we went from filing 3,000 cases a year to filing 8,000 cases a year. So I know how handle a budget and a government office. This office has over 400 employees, and my opponent has no experience in practicing law in Missouri or administering an office this size.

The American: Why does he want to be attorney general?

Teresa Hensley: He has made it clear that sees the office as a place to promote his personal agenda. For instance, he has said twice publicly that if he were attorney general he would not enforce the law.

As attorney general, your job is to enforce the law. That’s what an attorney general does for citizens. In fact, you’re responsible for removing elected officials who don’t obey the law. My opponent sent a press release stating his support for Kim Davis in Kentucky, who was put in jail for not issuing marriage licenses for same-sex couples – for not obeying the law.

Recently Trinity Lutheran sued because it filed for a grant from Missouri for playground materials and was denied the grant. They sued because Missouri has a constitutional provision that says no public funds may be used for religious schools. Hawley said he would not enforce that law.

As a prosecutor and attorney general, your job is to enforce the law over your personal beliefs and to seek justice fairly and equally. It’s dangerous for someone to want to be attorney general to use the office to push his personal views.

The American: Who else

Teresa Hensley: He has received over 3.5 million from David Humphries, owner of TAMKO Building Products in Joplin, who has a class action suit against him – a case that could go before the attorney general. He’s gotten $3 million from the Republican Attorneys General Association. The difference is I got $1 million from The Democratic Attorneys General Association, and we showed where every dollar came from, whereas the Republicans dropped $3 million in his account without our knowing where it came from. He has received over $4 million from two sources, but I raised $2.5 million from over 2,000 donations.

The American: What does the Republican Party expect from Hawley?

Teresa Hensley: He is against STEM cell research. He would defund Planned Parenthood, which delivers health care for women. He would seek to overturn Roe v Wade (which legalized abortion). He would pick and choose from his own personal beliefs what to pursue.

The American: What changes would you seek in the office if elected?

Teresa Hensley: My priorities would be to seek best practices in prosecution and law enforcement. I was named chair of the best practices committee for DWI and traffic safety for the Missouri Association of Prosecuting Attorneys, which goes along with seeking best practices for child sex abuse and sexual assault cases and seeking alternate treatment courts. I would bring everyone to the table – and that includes law enforcement officials, Black Lives Matter activists, clergy, elected officials, civic leaders – to talk about the tensions that exist in our state. And the first file that I would ask to have brought to me is the Bridgeton Landfill case. The American: What’s your best shot to convince someone to vote against Donald Trump and for Hillary Clinton?

Teresa Hensley: It’s hard for me to imagine why any woman would vote for Trump and not Hillary. Whether you’re voting for president or governor or attorney general, experience should matter to folks. We have a ticket of really good, experienced public servants who have dedicated their careers to making folks’ lives better and safer. I hope voters pay attention and respect to experience and qualifications. Missouri Democrats have three women candidates on the ballot, besides Hillary. As a woman candidate, if I had as little experience practicing law in Missouri as my opponent has, I wouldn’t even be considered. I have 24 years of experience practicing law in this state. I’ll be ready to work my first day. When I was elected Cass County prosecutor, on my first day a detective called. Nobody else was in, so I took the call. He said he wasn’t expecting to get the new person or for me to be able to answer his question. Of course, I had done criminal defense for 14 years, so that gave me good experience. I was ready to be prosecutor on the first day and will be well- suited to be attorney general on day one.

Teresa Hensley, Democratic nominee for Missouri attorney general (standing, center), visited with Dr. William Danforth, Maxine Clark, Frankie Freeman and her daughter Shelbie Freeman Bullock at the 100th birthday party for Freeman that the St. Louis NAACP threw for her on October 22 in St. Louis.

Photo by Wiley Price

GOOD FUN is

A BATTLE IS BREWING...

The DIVINE 9 fraternities and sororities are in a race to help as many people as possible through the CHARMAINE CHAPMAN SOCIETY

Kappa Alpha Psi jumps up a spot while overall totals surge.

Fraternity rankings

1. Omega Psi Phi

2. Kappa Alpha Psi

3. Phi Beta Sigma

4. Alpha Phi Alpha

5. Iota Phi Theta

Sorority rankings

1. Alpha Kappa Alpha

2. Delta Sigma Theta

3. Zeta Phi Beta

4. Sigma Gamma Rho

Lists complete as of October 28, 2016.

JOIN THE PREMIER AFRICAN-AMERICAN PHILANTHROPIC SOCIETY AND HELP BUILD A STRONGER COMMUNITY.

United Way’s African American/Charmaine Chapman Leadership Society is the No. 1 African American philanthropic organization in the nation. To join, contact Ashley Edwards at ashley.edwards@stl.unitedway.org

Roberts files defamation suit against Walker for rape allegations

Both running unopposed for state rep seats on Nov. 8 ballot

By Chris King Of The St. Louis American

After St. Charles County Prosecutor Tim Lohmar declined to file charges against Steven Roberts Jr. for the alleged rape of Cora Faith Walker, saying “there was not enough credible evidence that sexual relations between these two people was anything but consensual,” Roberts filed a civil suit against Walker on October 27. Roberts accused Walker of “making false and defamatory allegations” to law enforcement officials, the St. Louis PostDispatch and the leadership of the Missouri House of Representatives. Roberts claimed these public comments caused him “severe, medically diagnosable and significant emotional distress,” and he seeks to recoup damages “in excess of $25,000” each for three separate charges: defamation, malicious

Steven Roberts Jr.

prosecution, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.

The case has been assigned to Circuit Judge Bryan L. Hettenbach. Roberts is represented by Jeremy D. Hollingshead and Katie M. Rhoten. Walker does not yet have an attorney of record listed on Casenet and did not return a request for comment. Roberts argues that Walker “either knew that she was not sexually assaulted by him” or “had no recollection of what took place,” and thus “her statements claiming sexual assault were made with serious doubts about its truth.”

Walker claimed that she was unconscious when Roberts allegedly assaulted her at his home in St. Louis on August 26 or early on the morning of August 27. Hollingshead claimed that Walker “made up these allegations in order to advance her own political career.”

Though the alleged assault happened in St. Louis, St. Louis Circuit Attorney Jennifer Joyce asked the St. Charles County prosecutor to take the case because of a conflict with her successor, Kimberly Gardner, who is running unopposed on the November 8 ballot. Gardner was a witness to public exchanges between Roberts and Walker around the time of the alleged assault, and thus would have had a conflict with the case once sworn in as prosecutor. The St. Louis PostDispatch incorrectly reported that Joyce had a conflict because Roberts used to work for her. Walker and Roberts, both Democrats, also are running unopposed on the November 8 ballot. Walker is running for Missouri House District 74 in North County, and Roberts is running for House District 77 in St. Louis.

Hands off our vote!

Opponents of Amendment 6 have been working overtime to educate citizens about its hidden consequences. The ballot measure will be on the November 8 ballot. At first glance, the measure seems to be okay, maybe even efficient, maybe even a deterrent for voter fraud. Nothing could be further from the truth. The Missouri Republican Party knows this better than most as it has attempted to carry out the GOP’s national strategy to restrict the rights of voters, particularly of black and brown voters.

If the measure passes next Tuesday, only governmentissued photo identification will be acceptable to vote. No more student ID, utility bills, job ID or the like that voters can presently use at their polling places. Republicans would be thrilled to see this state swing to red for generations to come.

First, some history.

The GOP has tried (unsuccessfully) to introduce restrictive voter legislation over the last decade. Similar legislation was vetoed by Governor Nixon and a couple of times it was struck down by the courts, once by the Missouri Supreme Court.

Missouri is one of few states

that included the protection of voting rights to all citizens in its state constitution. That’s why the GOP has taken its fight to a new level – changing the state constitution.

Second, some logic.

I’ve grown so tired of the mythology of voter fraud that I might just announce this is my last time writing about it. There have been countless studies of voter fraud, and none have yielded substantial evidence of a voter showing up at the poll pretending to be someone else.

One such study looked at more than a billion ballots cast between 20002014 from general, primary, local and special elections.

Out of a billion-plus ballots, only 31 incidents were found, and I’d be willing to bet that half of those can be rationally explained.

Republicans have been on a mission to restrict voting rights any way they can. They got a big boost when the U.S. Supreme Court gutted the

historic Voter Rights Act. Since then, 17 states have put new voting restrictions in effect for the first time. Fifteen states have new, harsher voter ID laws in place. If voters don’t get all the information about Amendment 6, Missouri could be in this undemocratic club. About 220,000 voters across the state will be negatively impacted by Amendment 6. These are mainly African Americans, senior citizens, students, the working poor and people with disabilities – not exactly the constituents of the Republican Party. Because the courts have already ruled restrictive ID’s are a hardship, the proposed legislation allows for $17 million to be spent so that affected voters can get right with the law such as paying for their birth certificates. This tab will put it in the hands of Missourians to pay.

Republicans see very clearly that voters are looking more brown and less white. These voting restrictions are about race and political power. It is why we must be informed voters on November 8 and vote NO on Constitutional Amendment 6.

Columnist Jamala Rogers

On the

‘Let’s

Move’ in Ferg-Flor schools

National program honors local schools

n Only 544 schools across the country achieved this honor in 2016.

Bermuda and Central Elementary Schools have been honored with the 2016 Let’s Move! Active Schools National Award for their outstanding efforts in creating an active school environment. Let’s Move! Active Schools is part of First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move! initiative. The Let’s Move! Active Schools National Award is the nation’s top physical education and physical activity distinction for K-12 schools and celebrates a school’s commitment to providing students with at least 60 minutes a day of before, during and after school physical activity. Only 544 schools across the country achieved this honor in 2016.

The Ferguson-Florissant School District Wellness Coordinator Cedric Brown (center) congratulates wellness champions from Bermuda (Carl Davis) and Central (Devin Bryant) elementary schools for their schools receiving the 2016 Let’s Move! award.

“The physical education instructors/wellness champions did an amazing job with their assessments and executing action plans that benefited Ferguson-Florissant School District students,” said Cedric Brown, the district’s wellness coordinator. “Additionally, I would like to thank the principals of Bermuda and Central for their support and dedication to the Healthy Schools Healthy Community grant.” Powered by a national collaborative of leading health, education and private sector organizations, Let’s Move! Active Schools equips schools with the resources, programs, professional development and grants to increase physical education and physical activity opportunities for students, and

to cultivate an active school environment.

To earn a Let’s Move! Active Schools National Award, a school must have met significant benchmarks in five areas: physical education; physical activity before and after school; physical activity during school; staff involvement; and family and community engagement.

Elder and disabled should register for Cold Weather Rule protections

must register with their heat-related company.

A customer may register with the utility if they are 65 years of age or older; are disabled to the extent that they have filed with the utility a form submitted by a medical physician attesting that their household must have natural gas or electric utility service provided in the home

STL Police to undergo mandated training on 1st Amendment rights

SWAT, Civil Disobedience units will learn about public rights to record police activity

By Mariah Stewart Of The St. Louis American

Officers in the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department will undergo training on First Amendment rights under a midOctober settlement with four journalists who were arrested during the Ferguson protests two years ago.

The settlement, which the Huffington Post obtained through a public records request, requires those officers on the SWAT team and in the Civil Disobedience Unit to be trained in particular on how to deal with individuals who are recording police activity. The class will emphasize the rights of members of the press and public to observe, photograph and otherwise document the actions of police officers.

The training has to be completed within 90 days of the settlement’s effective date of October 10.

Under the settlement, current and future recruits at the St. Louis police academy must also take the First Amendment class. The agreement runs until October 7, 2019.

For their part, journalists Ryan Devereaux, Lukas Hermsmeier, Ansgar Graw and Frank Herrmann will receive a total of $12,500 from the City of St. Louis - a figure that includes attorney fees and costs.

Black votes matter

By Michael P. McMillan Guest columnist

With the election season upon us, it is important for everyone who is eligible to exercise their right to vote. Voting is crucial in this season where we, as African Americans, are being disenfranchised throughout the country in many ways, with the repealing of major portions of the Voting Rights Act and the introduction of voter photo ID laws to make voting difficult for those who don’t have government-issued identification.

In Missouri, we will have our own Voter ID law debuting on the November 8 ballot with Amendment 6. If passed, Amendment 6 will alter the Missouri Constitution to require government-issued photo identification to be presented at the time of voting in order to be given a ballot. Those without a government-issued ID will be immediately turned away at the polls. This measure will highly disenfranchise senior citizens and low-income voters, as well as college students whose student IDs will no longer be viewed as valid for voting. With the passage of this measure, neither out-of-state licenses or IDs will be allowed to cast votes.

As we look at the bigger picture, the African-American and minority vote is quickly becoming more influential in election cycles. While black voter turnout has been on the rise since 1996, it reached historic levels with the last two presidential elections. In 2012, black voter participation exceeded the mainstream by two percentage points which helped elect President Obama. While these victories were important, it is now time for us, as African Americans to shift our focus towards voting to empower those who represent our interests.

The four reporters filed their lawsuit against the City of St. Louis and St. Louis County, as well as several police officers, in March 2015. The suit argued that the chiefs of both the city and county police departments had “ignored, condoned and/or permitted a pattern of excessive force [and] false arrest” and had “failed to train, investigate and supervise their officers.”

In both settlements, which also cover the individual officers sued, the defendants did not admit to any liability.

The county settled with the journalists in May, agreeing that all its police officers would receive training on media access and the people’s right to record police activity. St. Louis County agreed to pay the journalists $75,000. And they, in turn, promised not to talk about the terms of the settlement.

In a similar case settled last year, St. Louis County agreed to pay $8,500 to journalist Trey Yingst, who was also arrested while covering the Ferguson protests. At the time of his arrest, Yingst was standing on a sidewalk and wearing media credentials.

Last year, the nonprofit Police Foundation released a 182-page review of the St. Louis County Police Department that found the agency was too focused on militarized tactics over community-oriented

policing. The review was conducted on behalf of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services. Another federal report by policing experts last year concluded that provocative, intimidating and unconstitutional tactics used by law enforcement against peaceful protesters in Ferguson, even during daytime demonstrations in August 2014, served to inflame tensions.

At least two dozen journalists were arrested during the Ferguson unrest.

This story is published as part of a partnership between The St. Louis American and the Huffington Post.

These interests include the elimination of unjust police killings, disproportionate and unfair sentencing of African Americans in the criminal justice system and discriminatory treatment of minorities in general. A recent Pew Research Center report cited that 63 percent of voters believe that the treatment of minorities is an important issue in the upcoming presidential election. If others are concerned about the fair treatment of minorities, how much more should we be concerned about our own welfare?

The upcoming election will be critical to shaping the next phase of the Civil Rights Movement for African Americans in the United States. President Obama’s elections were an important victory in our history, but we must also be concerned with how we can grow and ensure our civil rights, public education, jobs, urban development, healthcare, environment and minority business expansion for years to come. Now more than ever, our vote matters. Next year, we will have a new president, governor and mayor in St. Louis for the first time since 1992. We need responsible leaders who will work for our issues and be accountable to the people. Now is the time to vote to empower those who support the interests and needs of the African-American community. Now is the time to vote!

Michael P. McMillan is president and CEO of the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis.

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

A St. Louis police officers sprays a women with a cell phone camera with pepper spray during a December 31, 2014 demonstration at St. Louis Police headquarters, 1915 Olive St.

Guest Columnist Michael P. McMillan

The wild race to the Marketplace

Navigators offer free assistance for health insurance enrollment

By Sandra Jordan Of The

St. Louis American

Now that open enrollment has begun (Nov. 1 – Jan. 1, 2017) for the health insurance Marketplace, local assisters are available in your area to help in-person and at no charge, to get you enrolled and to find financial help to lower costs.

The Cover Missouri Coalition said busy insurance shoppers could save time by visiting assisters for the free help in selecting an insurance plan and getting enrolled.

n At Healthcare. gov, there are 23 health coverage plans available in the St. Louis area offered by two insurers.

“This year is as important as ever for Missourians to seek help when signing up for insurance as many will need to select a new participating plan to be eligible for financial help and continue receiving coverage through the Marketplace,” Nancy Kelley, Expanding Coverage program director, Missouri Foundation for Health, said. “It’s critical that consumers visit an assister for free help to explore their options for 2017 health coverage.” At Healthcare.gov, there are 23 health coverage plans available in the St. Louis area, offered by two insurers, Cigna Healthcare and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield. There are four insurers across the state. If your current insurer dropped out of the Marketplace for 2017, Marketplace CEO Kevin Counihan told The American that the coverage was automatically moved to participating plan. 1051”If they are in the two that bowed out this year, they would automatically be transferred to one of the remaining two,

so that they would make sure there was continuity of coverage, and they will be receiving notices, if they having already, about what that coverage is,” Counihan explained. Similar to when you competitively shop for homeowner’s or car insurance, Counihan said when you shop around, you can get a better deal. “What we strongly encourage everybody to do, no matter whether their existing carriers are in the market or not, is to go back to

tool and a dedicated toll-free call center (800-466-3213 or Spanish 855-2843236) where consumers can find and make an appointment with a local assister.

Your Family Doctor

Truth vs. Fact

Everything you need to know about the influenza vaccine

As we get into the swing of flu season, even though disease activity is low right now, I thought I would jump ahead of the Google self-proclaimed research scholars and discuss common misconceptions regarding the influenza vaccine. Please see common statements made by people trying to avoid getting their annual vaccine:

I got a flu shot in February of this year. I don’t need another one. Answer: False Per the CDC, everyone age 6 months and older needs an annual influenza vaccine. Flu season is generally October to April. Therefore, a vaccine given in February was intended for previous season. The formula for the vaccine changes each year based on predicted flu activity. A recent study showed that adults over the age of 50 who received a flu vaccine were 57 percent less likely to be admitted to a hospital due to influenza.

The flu shot makes you sick. Answer: False

n A recent study showed that adults over the age of 50 who received a flu vaccine were 57 percent less likely to be admitted to a hospital due to influenza.

The injectable influenza vaccine is composed of inactivated virus and cannot cause influenza. The nasal form of the vaccine does contain live viruses but they are weakened and thus cannot cause influenza. Only the injectable form of the vaccine is being recommended this year. Common potential reactions following the injection are redness at site of administration, low grade fevers, or muscle aches. In a randomized trial of individuals receiving an injection of sugar water versus an influenza vaccine, the reactions from both were about the same.

Some possible explanations for why people may feel ill following an influenza injection include being exposed to a similar virus or having a different strain of influenza not covered in the vaccine. Individuals who receive an influenza vaccine may still be infected with the influenza virus later in the

Persons who are self-employed, like Ronita Herron, want quality, affordable health coverage from the Marketplace, as promised by the Affordable Care Act.

Denise HooksAnderson, MD

Ronita Herron, a University

Photo by Wiley Price

Delta Dental of Missouri and its partners have a special destination for unopened candy left over from Halloween trick or treaters – in boxes that will be shipped to members of the U.S. military. It’s called “The Great Candy Exchange,” which takes on Sunday, Nov. 6, from Noon to 4 p.m. at the HealthWorks! Kids’ Museum St. Louis. The museum is located at 1100 Macklind Ave (63110). Admission to the museum is free during the event. Each exchanged pound of candy will be worth one raffle ticket for the prize drawings. The more candy exchanged, the more chances children will have to win prize packages, like admission tickets to venues all over the Saint Louis area. The afternoon will feature special programming in the museum’s theatres and the ability for

HealtH Briefs

Delta Dental will exchange leftover candy for prizes

visitors to gain access to all of the new interactive exhibits.

“Halloween is synonymous with the over-consumption of candy, and while it is okay to indulge for an evening, it’s simply not a good idea to have a sack full of sugar sitting around until Thanksgiving,” commented Shannon Woodcock, president and CEO of HealthWorks! Kids’ Museum St. Louis. “Instead, children can pick a handful of their favorites to be eaten in moderation, and then exchange the rest during the event. To help further sweeten the deal, the candy collected will be sent to U.S. military troops, along with toothbrushes, in an effort to spread smiles and demonstrate our appreciation.” For more information, call 314-241-7391 or visit www. hwstl.org.

Funding carbon-free transportation could slash carbon emissions

By Eli Chen St. Louis Public Radio

In Missouri, 27 percent of carbon emissions are caused by the transportation sector, according to a national report.

Local environmental advocates are using the findings by the nonprofit think tank, Frontier Group, to argue that providing more carbon-neutral transportation options could improve public health and safety. The report includes multiple policy recommendations to reduce transportation’s impact on the environment, including incentives for consumers to purchase electric cars and creating more paths for pedestrians and bikers.

Frontier Group also found that 88 percent of government transportation spending in the last 60 years funded highway construction and aviation. Environment Missouri wants policymakers to redirect some of that funding towards public transit and other transportation infrastructure that has a low environmental impact.

“We have solutions, now we just need the right policies to make it happen,” said Taylor Hale, campaign organizer with Environment Missouri.

If steps are taken to address greenhouse gases emitted

INSURANCE

Continued from A14

St. Louis area

Cosmetologist Ronita Herron has not decided whether she will utilize an assister, but she is looking for health coverage that fits into her budget and lifestyle. As a healthy woman with no health issues, Herron said during the first year of the

DOCTOR

Continued from A14

season but researchers believe that the illness will most likely be less severe.

Women who are pregnant should not get a flu shot.

Answer: False

for

by vehicles, it could have a profound impact on public health as well, according to Roger Lewis, an environmental health professor at Saint Louis University. He said the greenhouse gases generated by automobiles contribute to the poor air quality in St. Louis and other areas.

“It adds to asthma, bronchitis, cardiovascular disease, so it makes it harder for those people who have respiratory

Marketplace, she went through all of the steps for coverage, but decided against it. “Last year I was full time working at an agency, so I used that [health insurance], but I am now back at the point where I have to figure out what to do, since I am uninsured right now,” Herron said. Deciding against health insurance now will cost you later, when you file income taxes.

An influenza vaccine helps protect women during and after pregnancy. In addition, the protection extends to the developing baby up until about four months after delivery. Furthermore, it has been shown that vaccination against influenza reduced flu-inspired respiratory infections by half.

diseases to live in these communities,” Lewis said.

Lewis added that he’d like to see more mass transit connection between the northern and southern parts of St. Louis.

Some believe that the streets need to be safer in order for the public to opt for transportation that’s not car-oriented. Marielle Brown, director of policy and outreach at Trailnet, works on efforts to promote walking and biking in the St. Louis region.

Persons who choose not to enroll in 2017 health coverage must pay one of two amounts when they file their income taxes, whichever is greater:

• 2.5 percent of their yearly household income, or

• $695 per person ($347.50 per child under 18)

The enrollment period will remain open until Jan. 31,

I don’t have a regular doctor so I cannot receive a flu shot. Answer: False Flu clinics are everywhere and in some cases totally free. Check local papers for a clinic near you. Pharmacists can also administer vaccinations. Please contact your local pharmacy for availability.

Providing more carbon-neutral transportation options, such as electric cars, could improve public health and safety.

Children have the chance to win oral health kits, tickets and other prizes in exchange for unopened, leftover Halloween candy at Delta Dental of Missouri’s “The Great Candy Exchange” event on Sunday, Nov. 6.

“Until we’re making it the easiest, safest and most convenient option, we’re just going to have people getting into their cars, driving around in a little armored box because they’re afraid to walk and bike,” Brown said.

The city of St. Louis has made some progress in increasing traffic safety. Officials passed a “traffic calming” bill in August to install more speed bumps.

2017. Enrolling before Dec. 15 will start coverage beginning on Jan. 1. “Hopefully, there are more affordable packages for people who don’t really use insurance, and are self-employed and single,” Herron said. For more information on health care options in Missouri, please visit healthcare.gov and covermissouri. org.

The influenza vaccine works immediately so I will wait until November or December to get it. Answer: False It takes about two weeks for the antibodies to develop and be effective in protecting against influenza infection. Therefore, it is recommended to receive the immunization early in the season before large cases of influenza are

SLU Cancer Center gets pancreatic cancer designation

Saint Louis University Cancer Center has been recognized by the National Pancreas Foundation as an NPF Center. The prestigious designation notes SLU’s commitment to multidisciplinary care and further demonstrates SLUCare’s excellence in pancreatic medicine and cancer care. NPF Centers recognize institutions that prioritize multidisciplinary treatment – treating the “whole patient” – with an emphasis on the best possible outcomes and an improved quality of life.

“Saint Louis University Cancer Center is the only cancer center in the region to receive this distinction,” said Nishant Poddar, M.D., assistant professor of hematology and oncology at SLU and a SLUCare cancer doctor.

“Quality care for cancer patients is about much more than a single health care provider or a single therapy. We aim to offer excellent multidisciplinary medical care, academic expertise and therapeutic support with our specialists in medical oncology, surgery, gastroenterology, radiation oncology and radiology, as well as pain management, psychiatry, nutrition, and many other disciplines.”

NPF Center designations are awarded after a rigorous audit review and must meet the criteria that were developed by a task force made up of invited subject matter experts and patient advocates.

Designated centers also will seek to advance research and lead the way for heightened awareness and understanding of pancreatic cancer among community physicians, allied health professionals, patients, families and the general public.

Compare plans for 2017

Are you already in the marketplace? While automatic re-enrollment keeps you covered, new plans may better meet your needs and your expected income and household information must be updated for the coming year.

For more information, visit the Q & A at https://www. healthcare.gov/keep-or-change-plan/. Find an assister in your area by going online to http:// bit.ly/1OvSib2

present in community.

Last but not least, immunizations do not cause autism and they are not ploys by the government to inject the US population with harmful chemicals. Immunizations over the years have proven repeatedly that they are safe for the general population. Do your part to keep our communities healthy: go get your influenza vaccine today!

Denise Hooks-Anderson, M.D. is assistant professor at SLUCare Family Medicine. You may contact her at yourhealthmatters@stlamerican.com

Photo by Delta Dental of Missouri

Votes yes on Constitutional Amendment 1

By Susan Flader Guest columnist

Renewal of Missouri’s State Parks, Soil, and Water Sales Tax is up for a vote by the citizenry in the general election November 8 as Constitutional Amendment 1, and a bipartisan array of supporters urge a strong “Yes” vote.

This is not a new tax. It is simply a renewal of a small 1/10th of one percent sales tax split equally between parks and soils that was initially submitted to a vote of the people in 1984 by the Missouri General Assembly. It was a response to financial crisis, when the park budget was reduced by half and there was talk of closing parks. At the same time, Missouri was staggering under the secondgreatest rate of soil erosion in the nation.

The measure barely passed that first time. But by the time it came up for renewal in 1988, both the parks and soil conservation programs in the Department of Natural Resources had demonstrated such good stewardship of the new funds that the public could see the results – campground upgrades, new visitor centers, infrastructure rehabilitation, and restoration of historic buildings in parks as well as effective soil and water conservation practices on Missouri farms – and the vote was an overwhelming two-to-one in favor. Each time since then, in 1996 and 2006, the margin of victory was even greater.

Renewal is now more critical than ever for our popular state park system, because legislators withdrew all general revenue funding for parks during a fiscal crisis in 1990 and it has

never been restored. The park sales tax now must provide 75 percent of the total operating budget, including staff salaries; the other 25 percent comes mostly from fees for services like camping, lodging, and boat rentals. Our parks are now utterly dependent on the tax to keep the doors open for visitors. This they do very well with superb management by devoted staff, increased help by volunteers, and creative partnerships for some special projects.

Missouri is one of the few states without any entrance fee for state parks, since citizens pay through the sales tax. It is a bargain, amounting to only about $7 per year for each of us. Our parks now welcome more than 19 million visitors a year, the tenth-highest state park attendance in the nation, and these visits provide more than $1 billion a year in economic impact statewide. For every $1 invested in our parks, some $26 return to our economy, mostly through small businesses in the vicinity of parks.

Moreover, we enjoy a truly exceptional system of 88 state parks and historic sites that is remarkably representative, both naturally and culturally, of our diverse state. The quality of resources and excellence in planning and management of Missouri’s system have been recognized nationally by its selection seven times, far more than any other state, as a finalist in the Gold Medal Award of the

American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration.

The state’s program for soil and water conservation, supported by the other half of the tax, has also garnered national attention. Missouri has gone from the secondgreatest rate of erosion to the greatest rate of erosion reduction through cost-shared implementation by landowners of more than 229,000 soil and water conservation practices, including stream buffers, sediment basins, cover crops and grazing systems. More than 179 million tons of soil have been saved since the inception of the tax, greatly improving water quality and soil health.

Other states also admire the Missouri model of cooperation between park and agricultural interests. Leaders of dozens of groups across the spectrum, from the Missouri Farm Bureau to the Conservation Federation to the Sierra Club, enjoy working together as the Citizens Committee for Soil, Water and State Parks on educational and campaign efforts for each ten-year renewal. For more information, visit https://soilwaterparks. com/.

In this volatile election season with many bewildering ballot issues, it is important to talk with your friends and neighbors about the many benefits and the critical need to vote “Yes” on Amendment #1 on the November 8 ballot. Together, we can ensure the future of programs vital to our quality of life, our health and our economy.

Susan Flader is a retired University of Missouri history professor and past president of the Missouri Parks Association.

Pride STL announces PrideFest dates and early-bird deadline

Pride St. Louis announced June 23-25 as the dates for PrideFest 2017, once again in downtown St. Louis at Soldiers Memorial. The theme for 2017 will be “Community Proud,” reflecting Pride St. Louis’ efforts to engage more fully with the community.

The 2016 festival had over 250,000 attendees in addition to a record number of vendors and parade entries. Registration for vendors and parade entries is now open, with early-bird registration fees that sunset on December 31st. Rates will increase on January 1, until the registration deadline of June 1.

Interested organizations can register at register.pridestl. org. The vendor relations team can be reached at vendor@ pridestl.org. Ellen Vanscoy, the parade director, can be reached at parade@pridestl. org, and parade registration and information can be found at www.pridestl.org/pridefest/ parade.

100 Black Men improve programs to strengthen the region

By Quintinus Henry and Leroy Shumpert Guest columnists

The 2016 calendar year has been a transformational time for our communities and the 100 Black Men of Metropolitan St. Louis. Through these periods of reflection and growth, we will continue to evolve with a stronger emphasis on building our community. December 31 will end the

presidential term of Quintinus Henry, director of Quality and Service at Graybar, and welcome the new president, Leroy Shumpert Jr., manager of Career Development at Edward Jones.

In order to continue to be effective in delivering our mission, we must continue to optimize our programs and organization to meet the everchanging dynamics of our community. We are excited about exploring new ways to deliver impactful programs to the St. Louis region and we look forward to expanding our collaborative efforts to improve the region.

The 100 Black Men of Metropolitan St. Louis has undergone significant changes with the intent to improve our core foundation and provide more resources to the community we’ve committed to serve.

We increased involvement across all ages: 100 Youth Ambassadors (ages 13-18), Collegiate 100 (ages 18-22), Emerging 100 (ages 22-39), and our Statesmen (ages 39 and up). We created a Community

Advisory Board to capture meaningful insights and strengthen alliances. We implemented efficacious recruiting, acceptance, and retention methodology. We improved development programs for youth that focus on skill sets required to thrive amid change.

We added a comprehensive STEM program that include robotics training and competitions. We expanded strategic partnerships with organizations and businesses to offer programs that support our “Mentoring Across a Lifetime” focus.

We increased efficiency in process and program management to enhance reporting and execution. We are confident that these changes – powered by the “Men of The 100” – provide the structure, the influence and the sweat equity, to enhance business and community relationships, leading us all down the path towards a stronger St. Louis region.

100 Black Men of Metropolitan St. Louis is a nonprofit 501(c)3 community based organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life in our communities and enhance educational and economic opportunities for all. The organization implements programs in the areas of Mentoring, Education, Economic Empowerment and Health & Wellness.

Quintinus Henry is the current president and Leroy Shumpert is the presidentelect of 100 Black Men of Metropolitan St. Louis.

Guest Columnist Susan Flader

St. Louis Treasurer Tishaura O. Jones marched in the 2016 Pride Parade in downtown St. Louis on June 26.

Take Your T ime!

What Fits?

Nutrition Challenge:

It seems that all of us are usually in a hurry. But when it’s time to eat, sit down, relax and focus on eating. With each bite, set down your fork and chew your food completely before swallowing. This allows your stomach to “catch

Exercise Challenge:

Is biking your thing? Or do you like to play basketball? The best “exercise” you can do is through an activity you enjoy. Make a list of 10 activities that you like to do, that are active enough to be considered exercise. Some possibilities include kickball, baseball, football, dancing, biking,

Standard Time

PRESENT:

Healthy Kids Healthy Kids

up” with your eating, and you’ll know when you’re full. Eating slowly allows you to know when you’ve had enough and you can stop eating before you become uncomfortable from overeating… and you’ll eat less!

Try this Practice chewing each bite 30 times before swallowing.

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

running, skating, jump rope, walking or playing Frisbee. Make it a goal to do one of these activities each day of the week (at least ﬁve days a week). Exercise can be fun!

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

On November 6, Daylight Savings Time ends. What does this mean? Well, it means that it gets dark a lot earlier than it used to! So plan ahead when you have outdoor activities or if you have to walk or bike somewhere. You may want to leave a little earlier in order to get home before it’s too dark. Also, wearing light colored clothing and carrying a ﬂashlight can help keep you safe.

Learning Standards: HPE 5, NH 5

Apple Ladybugs

Ingredients: 2 Red Apples, 1/4 Cup Raisins, 1 TB Peanut Butter, 8 Thin Pretzel Sticks

Directions: Slice apples in half from top to bottom and scoop out the cores using a knife or melon baller. If you have an apple corer, core them ﬁrst, then slice. Place each apple half ﬂat side down on a small plate. Dab peanut butter on to the back of the ‘lady bug,’ then stick raisins onto the dabs for spots and eyes. Stick one end of each pretzel stick into a raisin, then press the other end into the apples to make antennae.

Healthcare Careers

Dr. Frederick

Matthews, Podiatrist

Where do you work? I work at Midwest Foot and Ankle Care, St. Louis. Where did you go to school? I graduated from Ladue High School. I then earned a BS of Biology from

Dillard University in New Orleans and a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine from New York College of Podiatric Medicine in New York City.

What does a podiatrist do? I treat different foot and ankle deformities. I make foot pain go away and make ugly feet look pretty.

Why did you choose this career? I chose this career because my mother is diabetic and that disease causes many problems for the feet and legs. I wanted to be able to help people not lose their limbs due to disease. I want to be able to save lives one foot at a time.

What is your favorite part of the job you have? It is rewarding to have the ability to provide surgical correction of foot deformities. I also enjoy having someone leave the ofﬁce feeling a lot better than when they arrived, knowing that I was able to do something to improve their life.

Learning Standards: HPE6, NH3

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

The St. Louis American’s award winning NIE program provides newspapers and resources to more than 7,000 teachers and students each week throughout the school year, at no charge.

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

CLASSROOM SPOTLIGHT

Barrington Elementary School 5th grade

SCIENCE CORNER

Parts of the Brain

Your brain is pretty small and it weighs approximately 3 pounds. Scientists compare the texture of the brain to the texture of tofu. Your brain has 5 main parts: cerebrum, cerebellum, brain stem, pituitary gland, and the hypothalamus. The cerebrum makes up 85% of the brain. It controls thinking, and the moving muscles. It is divided into two halves. The left of the brain controls the movements on the right side of your body and vice versa. The cerebellum makes up 1/8 of your brain. It controls balance, movement, and coordination. The brain stem is beneath the cerebrum and in front of the cerebellum. It connects to the spinal cord and controls all major life functions, such as breathing air, circulating blood,

SCIENCE INVESTIGATION

and digesting food. The pituitary gland is about the size of a pea. It controls growth, regulates metabolism, and releases hormones. The hypothalamus controls temperature. It tells your body to shiver when you are cold to generate heat; it tells your body to sweat when you are hot to release heat.

For information on creating models of the brain, visit: http://faculty. washington.edu/chudler/chmodel.html.

Learning Standards: I can read nonﬁction text for main idea and supporting details. I can make text-to-text and text-to-self connections.

Are You Left or Right Sided?

Are you left handed or right handed? Did you know that your brain has a right or left side dominance, too? In this experiment, you will observe the brain dominance in your volunteers.

Materials Needed:

• 10 Volunteers • Paper • Pencil • Scissors

• Ball • Stairs • Coin • Tube • Shell

Process:

q In your science notebook, create the following chart:

w Ask each volunteer to complete the tasks on the chart and record the results on the paper—did they use their right hand or left hand, their right foot or left foot, their right eye or left eye, their right ear or left ear?

e Analyze the results — Did your right hand participants use their right side for all the tasks? Did your left hand participants use their left side for all the tasks?

CONNECTION

Keep your skills sharp and test your brain power with these math problems.

z Ariel’s father gave her $125. Ariel bought 5 books, each of which cost $12.50 each. How much money does Ariel have left? ______

SCIENCE STARS

African-American Neurosurgeon Alexa Canady

Alexa Canady was born on November 7, 1950, in Michigan. Her father was a dentist and her mother was a teacher. They encouraged her to work hard and to take risks. She graduated from high school with honors and went to the University of Michigan to earn her bachelor’s degree in zoology. However, while attending a summer program for minority students, Canady became interested in studying medicine. So, after she earned her zoology degree, she enrolled in the University of Michigan’s medical school. She specialized in neurosurgery, which is brain surgery. She was an intern at Yale-New Haven Hospital. In 1975, she graduated cum laude from medical school.

One year later, she transferred to the University of Minnesota, where she was the ﬁrst female African American in the U.S. to become a neurosurgery resident. In 1981, she became the ﬁrst female African American to become a neurosurgeon. She completed surgeries to treat both brain injuries and brain diseases. Canady completed training for pediatric neurosurgery at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Next, she worked in pediatric neurosurgery at the Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. She ended her career at the Children’s Hospital of Michigan.

In 1984, she became the ﬁrst female African American certiﬁed by the American Board of Neurological Surgery. Three years later, she became the director of neurosurgery at Children’s Hospital. Canady continued to conduct research and she was a professor of neurosurgery at Wayne State University. Canady retired in 2001 and moved to Florida. When she learned there was not a local pediatric neurosurgeon, she began working part time at the Pensacola Sacred Heart Hospital. Canady was inducted into the Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame in 1989 and she also received the American Medical Women’s Association President’s Award in 1993.

Learning Standards: I can read a biography about a person who has contributed to the ﬁelds of science, technology, engineering, and math.

Learning Standards: I can follow a sequential process to complete an experiment. I can draw conclusions and analyze results.

Brain Power!

x For breakfast, Eli bought a bagel for $2.60 and a glass of orange juice for $1.25. At lunch, Eli spent $6.15 on a sandwich with chips and $1.50 on a carton of milk. How much more money did Eli spend on lunch than on breakfast? ______ How much money did he spend in all? ______

DID YOU KNOW?

c A group of 9 children and 5 adults are going to a movie. Child tickets cost $3 each, and adult tickets cost $6 each. How much will the movie tickets cost in all? ______

If each person spends $5 at the concession stand, how much money did they spend on food and drinks? ______

v Layla has 19 red beads, and she has 2 fewer yellow beads than red beads. Lyla also has 7 more green beads than red beads. How many beads does Layla have in all?

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

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

Activities — Perspective: Imagine that you are the main character in a news story. After reading the published story, give your version.

Creating an Advertisement: Look through the classiﬁed ads to identify the types of things that are sold. Read a few ads and list important facts included in an ad (item description, condition, price, etc.). Draw a picture of a toy that you have. Next, pretend you are going to sell it and write a classiﬁed ad below the picture.

Learning Standards: I can use the newspaper to locate information. I can write for a speciﬁc purpose and audience. I can make text-to-self connections.

students Mia Devrouaz and Janiya Wilkerson use the St. Louis American newspaper for classroom STEM lessons.

Barrington Elementary is in the Hazelwood School District.

Photo provided by teacher Paris Bouchard.

MAP CORNER

Dr. Canady prepping for surgery.

The HBCU case for Hillary Clinton

By Glenda Baskin Glover President of Tennessee State University

Voting affects every aspect of our American lives. It is the cornerstone of our democracy as well as a constitutional right that we must responsibly exercise as American citizens.

As an outspoken college president regarding civil rights, I can easily articulate that the most critical challenges facing African Americans today center around educational issues, economic inequality and growing injustices. Voting is the first step and a necessary condition to fashioning solutions to many of these challenges. The right to vote is a matter of dignity and democracy. Sometimes it is important to remind each other of the significant bloody and deadly battles that were fought for such a fundamental right that should have been enforced from the inception of our democracy. In fact, we honor the legacy of

those who made sacrifices by exercising this decisive right.

This brings us to the critical choice between the candidates for this all-important election on November 8 that many are characterizing as one of the most crucial elections in the last 60 years. In analyzing the candidates, their platforms, experiences and qualifications, Hillary Clinton is the clear choice for this nation.

families. Also, it makes debt-free college available to everyone and addresses student loan debt.

Her commitment to HBCUs is far-reaching. Her New College Compact pledges $25 billion to HBCUs and minority-serving institutions, thereby strengthening opportunities for African Americans and other minorities to attend college. It provides that families with income up to $125,000 will pay no tuition at in-state public colleges and universities, and that community colleges are tuition free for all working

Her pledge to protect Pell grant funding for minority students and reinstate summer Pell grants would make this funding available year-round.

She has a history of supporting concerns that affect African Americans, including improved education, unemployment, civil rights, the current criminal justice system, racial injustices and other disparities in the black community.

Her experience with health care initiatives will ensure that affordable health care is available for families.

Her platform advances an economy that works for everyone, and presents an investment in the nation’s infrastructure, thereby providing a comprehensive new

jobs program. She has a proven record of promoting and advancing women, and she will continue to tear down barriers, especially as it relates to AfricanAmerican women. Finally, and most of all, she has unparalleled credentials and experience in government, public service, law and international affairs. These are only a few of the reasons that define the choice for Hillary Clinton, and explain why I’m with her and you should be too. Hillary Clinton will build upon President Barack Obama’s legacy and chart her own path toward issues that are important to us. Your vote matters. We have a responsibility as well as a duty to vote. In this critical election, we must to effect change. No vote, no voice, no victory!

Glenda Baskin Glover is the eighth president and first female president of Tennessee State University in Nashville, Tennessee.

Guest Columnist

Glenda Baskin Glover

Business

Charmaine Chapman Society raises more than $3M for United Way

African-American leadership giving initiative expects to surpass $3.25 campaign goal

By Chris King Of The St. Louis American

The 2016 Charmaine Chapman Society at the United Way of Greater St. Louis already has made philanthropic history. It already has raised more than $3 million in the current campaign –the first time the African-American leadership giving initiative has raised $3 million in one year. Its campaign goal was set at $3.25 million. Co-chairs Ann Marr, vice president of global human resources at Worldwide Technology, and Keith Williamson, executive vice president, general counsel and corporate secretary at Centene Co., said they are on pace to meet and even surpass that goal.

The society is comprised of more than 800 local African Americans who donate $1,000 or more annually to the United Way.

Ann Marr said she was motivated to give more and do more after making some site visits to member agencies, as campaign co-chairs always do.

n “When you see so many families and children in need, and think what they would do without the United Way, you realize how much we do to change people’s lives when they are truly in need.”

“When you talk to member agencies and see how they have changed the lives of people, it makes you want to dig deeper and give more,”

Marr said. “It inspires you and makes you want to support them.”

Marr has been trying to communicate that feeling to others who have not made the site visits to see and feel for themselves.

“When you see so many families and children in need, and think what they would do without the United Way,” she said, before her voice trailed off and she fell silent. “It’s heart-felt. You realize how much we do to change people’s lives when they are truly in need.”

According to the United Way of Greater St. Louis, its 170 member agencies help one in three local people, and the United Way invests more than $1 million each week in social services in our region, as well as in the United Way’s 2-1-1 helpline, community enhancement grants and other programs. In the past year, United Way 2-1-1 received more than 200,000 calls from people needing help from everything ranging from employment services, disaster help, senior care and utility assistance.

See CHAPMAN, B6

Fostering inclusion and mitigating bias

Dot Foods to receive 2016 Corporate Diversity Award at Nov. 17

Salute to Business

By Rebecca Rivas Of The

St. Louis American Robert and Dorothy Tracy founded an ingredient supplier company in 1960 in Mount Sterling, Illinois, which is about two hours north of St. Louis.

“Dad figured out that, after having 12 kids, he better acknowledge his wife, and so he named the business after Dorothy Tracy,” said John Tracy, their son and CEO of Dot Foods Inc. “That’s what Dot stands for.” The couple put together a business that was a “consolidator” to the dairy industry and icecream manufacturers. By 1980, Dot Foods had hit $20 million in revenue, and then ultimately grew into the nation’s first and largest food

See DOT, B2

Karen Dickson joined First Bank as an assistant vice president, CRA (Corporate Reinvestment Act) Development Officer – Midwest. She will be responsible for several CRA initiatives while working with various business segments to support new and existing partnerships. She will also be responsible for community service outreach. Her office will be located at First Bank’s Hazelwood office, 600 James S. McDonnell Blvd.

Paul Beatty won the 2016 Man Booker Prize for Fiction, which is awarded for the best original novel written in the English language and published in the UK. He won for “The Sellout,” a novel whose main character, an African American, wants to bring back slavery and segregation.

“It manages to eviscerate every social taboo and politically correct nuance, every sacred cow,” judging panel chair Amanda Foreman said.

Trina Petty-Rice is principal of Mark Twain Elementary in the Brentwood School District, which was ranked 7th in the state in the 2016 Missouri Assessment Program scores. At Mark Twain, 89.5 percent of students tested Proficient or Advanced in ELA (Communication Arts), which was 7th in the state, and 87. percent of students tested Proficient or Advanced in Math, which was 5th in the state.

Vincent Flewellen joined The College School as associate director of Diversity & Inclusion. He will also teach courses on social justice in the Middle School and chair both a student and parent Diversity Committee. Flewellen previously taught at Ladue Middle School and Mary Institute Country Day School and serves as adjunct faculty at Washington University. The College School is an independent pre-K to 8th grade school in Webster Groves.

Adrienne D. Davis will receive a Distinguished Faculty Award from the Washington University Alumni Association. She is vice provost at Washington University and William M. Van Cleve Professor of Law at the WUSTL School of Law. She will be awarded at Founders Day 2016 on Saturday, November 5 at the St. Louis Union Station Hotel. To make reservations, call 314-935-6503.

Darryl Cherry was inducted into 100 Black Men of Metropolitan St. Louis. He is coordinator of retention and academic advisor for Student Opportunities for Academic Results (SOAR) at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. 100 Black Men of Metropolitan St.

Karen Dickson

Trina Petty-Rice

Vincent Flewellen

Adrienne D. Davis

Paul Beatty

Darryl Cherry

Photo by Michael Thomas

The men of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. represented when the United Way of Greater St. Louis’ Charmaine Chapman Society’s held its Divine (9) Soiree on Thursday, October 27 at Stonewolf Golf Club in Fairview Heights, Illinois. The event celebrates members of the local National Pan-Hellenic Council Greek Society and their service to the region.

– Ann Marr, 2016 Charmaine Chapman Society co-chair

On Thursday, November 17, Dot Foods will receive the 2016 Corporate Diversity Award at the St. Louis American Foundation’s Salute to Excellence in Business Networking & Awards Luncheon. Left to right: Marisol Finch, Megan Kuntze, Chad Crater, CEO John Tracy and Pamela Kelly.

Photo courtesy of Dot Foods

Make a difference: become a financial educator

By Nathaniel Sillin

Teaching personal finance topics can be immensely rewarding because the lessons are often immediately applicable to many students’ lives. Whether you’re comparing financial products, creating a budget or evaluating the cost of a loan, financial literacy provides the foundation to make a wellinformed decision. Even so, many people get little to no financial education.

According to a study from the Council for Economic Education, 45 states include personal finance in their K-12 standards, but only 17 states require high school students to take a personal finance class before graduating. After grade school, one might find financial education courses at colleges, universities or employers, but they’re rarely required.

If you have a passion for financial literacy, consider passing on your knowledge and helping your community change for the better. Whether you’re volunteering at a grade school or teaching a course at a local community center,

continued from page B1 industry redistributor. Now, Dot Foods does an estimated $6.2 billion in revenue a year, with 10 distribution centers

teaching money management skills can help improve others’ future financial prospects and encourages community connection and growth.

Decide what to teach and take advantage of free resources. There are a wide range of lessons that students of different ages and backgrounds will need, from informative presentations for older adults who are targets of scammers to lessons for high school students who need to learn how to handle finances in college.

Prepare for your outreach by identifying the financial topics you want to teach. You can draw from your own strengths and experiences, which can be an effective way to help students relate to the lessons. However, there are also free educational materials you can use to design your personal finance course.

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) has comprehensive free curricula for adults and young people in grades K–12, as well as a curriculum tailored to the needs of older people. Visa’s Practical Money Skills also

that serve all 50 states and 25 countries and delivers more than 112,000 food products. Eleven of the 12 Tracy children have worked full-time for the company. John said inclusion is among the core principles that his parents left behind for him and

offers curricula, lesson plans and educational games for students from Pre-K to college, including those with special needs. A simple Internet search can also turn up results for any financial lesson imaginable.

Focus on practical and interactive lessons.

Incorporating interactive elements into the mix can supplement financial literacy curriculum and help lessons

his siblings to carry on.

“Not only is it a core value of the business, but it’s also a way to remain competitive in the world,” John said. “We need to make sure that we have the ability to recruit from the widest target population of talent as possible. The only

come alive. You want to give your lessons context and teach students how to apply what they learn to real life situations. For example, explaining the importance of investing for the future and the benefits of compound interest is a great start, but you could continue your lesson by running a stock market simulation that lets students practice investing with play

way you can do that is to make sure you have an open and inclusive environment that’s attractive to the entire talent pool.”

On Thursday, November 17, Dot Foods will receive the 2016 Corporate Diversity Award at the St. Louis

money. Games and apps can also make lessons memorable and engaging. Younger children might benefit from physical activities like dividing allowance into saving, spending and charity jars. Or, they can play fun online games that teach basic lessons like recognizing and counting the value of coins.

Whatever topic you’re teaching, plan every lesson with your students in mind. Reinforcing the lessons with relevant activities or even consequences and rewards can be effective.

Explore volunteer opportunities. If you’re unsure of how to get started, consider looking for a volunteer opportunity with an established nonprofit. Volunteering allows you to meet new people, give back to your community, make new connections and share knowledge that can have a lasting impact. Some organizations will train you and ask that you teach their own personal finance curricula. Others may set guidelines and let you work independently

American Foundation’s Salute to Excellence in Business Networking & Awards Luncheon.

Dot leaders have a motto, “If it’s important to the business, you better measure it,” John said. About 10 years ago, the company began tracking diversity and inclusion at the company.

“Like a lot of companies, we haven’t made as much progress as we’d have liked to,” he said.

Dot has more than 5,000 total employees, which includes both fulltime and part-time. The total full-time hourly and salaried employees number just over 4,500. Of that 4,500, 551 are minority men, 100 are minority women and 839 are white females. White men make up 67 percent of their full-time hourly and salaried workforce.

within them.

The Corporation for National & Community Service (CNCS) has a comprehensive guide to learning and teaching personal finance, as well as several helpful resources. Look for volunteering positions in your area with the CNCS government search engine (Serve.gov), which allows you to filter volunteering opportunities by keywords and location.

Bottom line: Whether you’re training as a professional teacher or working as a volunteer, teaching financial literacy is an admirable way to provide essential knowledge to members of your community. Using quality resources and tools – and bringing your own experience, passion and perspective – can help elevate students’ personal finance skills and make a positive impact in your community.

Nathaniel Sillin directs Visa’s financial education programs. To follow Practical Money Skills on Twitter: www. twitter.com/PracticalMoney.

2006, turnover for women was at 20 percent; today it is at 27 percent. Conversely, minority turnover was also at 20 percent in 2006, but today it is at 0.

Aside from tracking inclusion numbers, John said they also measure inclusion through surveys, exit interviews, focus groups and discussions among their diversity leadership council. The most important thing they’ve learned is that bias is a part of daily life, John said.

n “We need to make sure that we have the ability to recruit from the widest target population of talent as possible. The only way you can do that is to make sure you have an open and inclusive environment that’s attractive to the entire talent pool.”

Dot’s leadership make up is 61 percent white males and 39 percent diverse leaders. Diverse leaders are further broken out to reflect 34 percent women and 5 percent minorities.

– John Tracy, Dot Foods Inc.

“Turnover is a challenge for any group at most organizations,” John said, “but we understand the additional barriers that may make turnover higher for some employee groups.”

Since 2006, Dot has intentionally focused on ways to reduce “separations” by introducing the New Employee Ambassador programs, flexible work arrangements and employee resource groups. In

“We all have it,” John said. “It’s a question of if we understand it and can we mitigate it. It affects us in our hiring and promoting process.”

With that in mind, they have launched a mandatory bias training for managers.

“It’s been a powerful learning tool for us,” he said. “How we make decisions every day will have bias in it if we don’t understand what we have and how we can mitigate it.”

The 17th Annual Salute to Excellence in Business Awards & Networking Luncheon will be held Thursday, November 17 at the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis, with a networking reception at 11 a.m. and luncheon program at noon. Tickets are $100 for VIP/ Preferred seating, $75 for general admission. Call 314-533-8000 or visitwww. stlamerican.com for more information or to purchase tickets.

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) has comprehensive free curricula for adults and young people in grades K–12.

“No, I’m not running with no damn bulls. I’m not.”

– LeBron James, on whether his sports bucket list includes Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, Spain

Pro Football Notebook

With Earl Austin Jr.

Titles on the line

Missouri state playoffs this weekend

District championships will be on the line this weekend as the Missouri state playoffs continue. Here is a schedule of the district championship games involving St. Louis area teams.

Class 6

District 1: Eureka at Kirkwood, Friday, 7 p.m.

District 2: CBC at Hazelwood Central, Saturday, 1 p.m.

District 3: Francis Howell at Blue Springs, Friday, 7 p.m.

District 4: Lee’s Summit West at Rockhurst, Friday, 7 p.m.

Notes: CBC will be looking to take out Hazelwood Central in the district finals for the third consecutive year. The Hawks are still undefeated. Eureka and Kirkwood stage an excellent district championship game last year, won by Kirkwood 28-21.

Class 5

District 1: Vianney at Jackson, Friday, 7 p.m.

District 2: Hazelwood East at Chaminade, Friday, 7 p.m.

District 5: Fort Zumwalt South at Fort Zumwalt North, Friday, 7 p.m.

Notes: Vianney and Jackson have enjoyed a nice postseason rivalry in recent years while

League of their own

Anthony Davis and Russell Westbrook put the NBA on notice

Anthony Davis has only sniffed the postseason once during his NBA career. The New Orleans Pelicans franchise player helped lead his team to the playoffs as a #8 seed during the 2014-15 season. The Pelicans eked out the Oklahoma City Thunder for the final playoff spot after both Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook missed significant time with injuries. Davis fielded career high averages in points (24.4), blocks (2.9), steals (1.5), assists (2.2) and minutes (36.1), as well as field goal (.535) and free throw (.805) percentages. If he wants to make it back to the postseason, he may have to best all those numbers once again. Once thing is certain, if the Pelicans don’t make the playoffs this season, don’t blame Davis. Maybe it was the

IN the ClutCh With Ishmael H. Sistrunk Ishmael H. Sistrunk

Halloween spirit, but the AllStar big man came out in the opening week looking a lot like Wilt Chamberlain Through four games, Davis has put up NBA 2K numbers with averages of 37 points, 13 rebounds, 3 blocks and 2.5 assists per game. Those numbers include a 50-point outburst in the season opener versus the Denver Nuggets and a 45-point follow up in the second game against the Golden State Warriors. Davis is dominating in nearly every imaginable way. He is incredible with his back to the basket, his mid-range jumper is dangerous, he’s a beast on the boards, a stopper on the defensive end and plays with a relentlessness and hunger that’s impossible to miss. A perfect example was late in the game versus the Warriors when he drove to the

basket only to have his shot blocked by Durant. However, by the time Durant landed, Davis had

Following his outstanding game against the Nuggets, Davis told reporters, “I’m

air, grabbed the rebound, laid it in

back in the See CLUTCH, B5

Earl Austin Jr.

Photo by Wiley Price

SportS EyE

Alvin A. Reid

With

Tatum, Duke Blue Devils ready to put best foot forward

Jayson Tatum and the Duke Blue Devils are breathing a sigh of relief after doctors determined a foot injury he sustained last week is not as serious as first believed.

“This is the best possible news. It is a manageable injury that will not impact Jayson long-term. We look forward to having him back very soon,” Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski said.

The 6’8” Tatum will start at small forward for the No.1-ranked Blue Devils upon his return, replacing NBA lottery pick Brandon Ingram. He wowed the Cameron Indoor Stadium crowd with an 18-point performance in the annual Blue/White exhibition game last month before spraining his foot in a “pro day” scrimmage. The five-star freshman out of Chaminade did not play in Duke’s 90-59 exhibition win over Virginia State and will also miss Friday’s exhibition against Augustana. He should be ready for Duke’s first regular season game on November 11 at home against Marist. That will set up a showdown with this year’s top recruit, forward Josh Jackson, and the No. 3 Kansas Jayhawks in Chicago on Nov. 15. Already labeled “the smooth assassin” by a Duke

basketball columnist Travis Harmon-Smith, Tatum is being compared to former Blue Devils star Grant Hill

Tatum told Bleacher Report recently his game will be similar to “Ingram, Jabari Parker, Grant Hill.”

“You know, that’s one of the reasons I chose Duke,” Tatum said. “All those guys are athletic, in shape, so strength is something I have to work on.”

While that work is delayed for a week or so with the foot injury, Tatum enters the season as one of the NBA’s top draft prospects, with several mock drafts listing him as the third selection.

n Why is a freshman who has not played a minute of NCAA basketball participating in a pro-day scrimmage?

Several NBA teams were impressed with Tatum’s skills before he went down with the injury – which begs the question: Why is a freshman who has not played a minute of NCAA basketball participating in a pro-day scrimmage? If Tatum decides to play one year at Duke and join the NBA, there is nothing stopping him. However, it seems ridiculous for the NCAA to allow this type of scrimmage before or during the season. The NCAA should be doing all it can to get Tatum and other stars to experience more college life and athletics – not help push them out of the door.

Ford revving SLU engine

SLU coach Travis Ford has created a national buzz for the Billikens after landing two highly sought recruits, besting the likes of Kansas, Illinois and

Missouri.

Last week, class of 2018 prospect Carte’Are Gordon picked the Billikens over Missouri and Kansas. Gordon, who will play for Webster this season after transferring from Vianney, ranks as the No. 41 prospect in his class, according to Scout. com.

Ford has landed Althoff star Jordan Goodwin, the No. 51 prospect of next year’s class, over Illinois and Missouri.

“It means a lot staying close to home and getting a chance to play in front of friends and family. With Carte’Are committing a lot of people are talking about SLU, and it is just a special thing to be a part of right now,” Goodwin told Scout.com

“Coach Ford just broke it down to me in a lot of areas. He showed me the ways he could make my game better, and just how he would help me as a person and as a basketball player.”

Ford said his first mission as SLU coach is to keep local talent in St. Louis.

“Honestly I don’t think there has been much of an emphasis here to lock down the St. Louis area and develop the needed relationships with the AAU and

high school programs,” he said

“Since the day we got here, we’ve let it be known to everybody that our top priority was going to be recruiting in the St. Louis area. We’ve made it a priority, and we’ve really emphasized it.”

While Ford’s first year with the Billikens in the Atlantic 10 could be a struggle, the future is much brighter than it was two weeks ago.

Don’t give the Cardinals a dime

The St. Louis Cardinals announced last week plans for the long-awaited expansion of Ballpark Village.

The $220-million project will include a 29-story building with “luxury” apartments that have views of the playing field, office, retail, restaurants and entertainment space.

The Cardinals were on the clock for building Ballpark Village when the new Busch Stadium opened in 2006, and it kept winding for eight years before the first phase was completed in 2014.

The new phase includes the apartment tower and an office building at both ends of Clark Street (north of the stadium) with additional retail

The 6’8” Jayson Tatum will start at small forward for the No.1ranked Blue Devils upon his return from a foot injury, replacing NBA lottery pick Brandon Ingram.

and entertainment businesses in between. An estimated 1,000 permanent jobs and 1,500 construction jobs will be created by the project.

Here’s the catch: The Cardinals want $16 million in city and state tax breaks. Alderman Jack Coater who represents downtown, is already lobbying for the Cardinals.

“None of this is coming from general revenue,” Coatar told KMOX. “This is all tax dollars that would be generated at the project. So, without the project, these funds don’t exist.”

“If we said no, I think you might see some pared-down, scaled down version of PhaseTwo,” Coatar said. St. Louis needs to find the money for more police officers, police body cameras and many other public safety issues. The Cardinals can afford to build the Ballpark Village expansion without any taxpayer money. This time, the city should strikeout any tax incentives.

Alvin A. Reid is a panelist on the Nine Network program, Donnybrook and appears on ABC’s The Allman Report and several sports radio shows. His Twitter handle is @aareid1.

Alvin A. Reid

Photo courtesy of Duke Athletics

Carte’are Gordon commits to SLU

By Earl Austin Jr.

Of the St. Louis American

Nationally ranked power forward Carte’are Gordon of Webster Groves High gave a verbal commitment to attend Saint Louis University.

The 6’8” 250-pound Gordon is a five-star recruit and one of

CLUTCH

Continued from B3

the abyss. Davis’ absence isn’t the only one. Oft-injured small forward Tyreke Evans is likely in street clothes until mid-December and former AllStar Jrue Holiday is sidelined indefinitely while he cares for his wife, who recently had brain surgery, and newborn child.

Though Halloween has passed, Davis will need to keep up his Chamberlain impersonation if he wants to keep the Pelicans playoff hopes from wilting.

Russ Unchained When Durant left OKC for greener pastures, everybody around the league began preparing for the Russell Westbrook revenge tour. Westbrook was already one of the most feared players in the league with Durant by his side. What type of monster would he turn into without another player gobbling up more than 19 shots per game? Now we know.

Westbrook has gotten out of the gates like a madman. Through three games, Westbrook is averaging 38.7 points, 11.7 assists and 12.3 rebounds per game. That includes dropping 51 points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists versus the Phoenix Suns.

While three games is a short sample size, there’s plenty of evidence to suggest that Westbrook can indeed be the first player to average a triple-double for an entire season.

Last year, Westbrook averaged a double-double with 23.5 points and 10.4 assists per game. His rebounding was at 7.8 per game. With Durant (8.2 rpg) and Serge Ibaka (6.8 rpg) gone, there will be plenty of opportunities for Westbrook to make up those extra 2.2 boards to reach double digits each

PREP

Continued from B3 Chaminade is seeking another district title in hopes of returning to the state championship game.

Class 4

District 1: Hillsboro at Cape Girardeau Central, Friday, 7 p.m.

District 2: MICDS vs. Ladue at SLUH, Friday, 7 p.m.

District 3: Parkway Central at Parkway North, Friday, 7 p.m.

District 4: Rolla at Parkway West, Friday, 7 p.m.

Notes: The Parkway School District is well represented with three teams still alive in the playoffs while Ladue and MICDS will play in the Battle of Warson Road at SLUH on Friday night.

Class 3

District 2: Vashon vs. Miller Career Academy at Gateway STEM, Saturday, 1 p.m.

District 5: St. Charles West at McCluer SouthBerkeley, Saturday, 1 p.m.

Notes: McCluer SouthBerkeley will try to extend its undefeated season on Saturday while Vashon and

Nationally ranked power forward from Webster Groves

the top prospects in the Class of 2018. He chose the Billikens over Missouri and Kansas. He becomes the highest ranked prep recruit from the area to commit to SLU since former CBC star Larry Hughes in 1997.

Gordon enjoyed a spectacular summer on the

grassroots circuit and in international play. He was a starting forward for the MoKan Elite 17U team that won the championship at the prestigious Nike EYBL Peach Jam in July. He also was a standout for USA

Basketball in helping the Americans to a gold medal in the World 16U Championships. Gordon will play his junior year at Webster Groves after spending his first two seasons at Vianney. As a sophomore,

Gordon averaged 19 points and 10 rebounds a game for the Golden Griffins. The commitment of Gordon continues a hot recruiting streak for new Billikens’ head coach Travis Ford.

Late in the summer, Ford also got a commitment from Belleville Althoff standout

Jordan Goodwin, a fourstar recruit who is the top area prospect in the Class of 2017. The Billikens also got a commitment from fourstar power forward Hasahn French from Commonwealth Academy in Middletown, N.Y.

night.

The bigger question will be whether Westbrook can keep his assist totals high without a reliable second scoring option. Victor Oladipo and Steven Adams are solid players, but are nowhere near Durant’s league in terms of scoring reliability.

The rumor mill has linked Sacramento Kings small forward Rudy Gay to a potential move to OKC for quite a while. If the Thunder acquire Gay, you can bank on Westbrook accomplishing the first triple-double season since Oscar Robertson did it in the 196162 season.

NBA awards go from ashy

Miller Career Academy will hook up in an All-Public High League final.

Class 2

District 2: Lutheran North at Trinity, Friday, 7 p.m.

District 5: Hermann at Brentwood, Friday, 7 p.m.

Note: The Trinity-Lutheran North showdown is one of the most anticipated games of the season. A huge crowd is expected for this Class 2 clash of titans.

Illinois State Playoffs Continue There are seven teams from

to classy After decades of announcing its annual awards winners in leaks and press releases, the NBA will step follow the lead of the NHL and NFL with an actual awards show.

The NBA announced it will televise the NBA Awards Show in New York on June 26 on TNT. On the telecast, the league will announce the winners of the MVP, Rookie of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, Sixth Man Award, Most Improved Player and Coach of the Year.

Some believe the move will clutter up the NBA’s offseason, though I disagree. It will be nice to see high-

the Metro East who are still alive in the second round of the IHSA playoffs, which resume this weekend. Undefeated East St. Louis will host Glenbard North in the Class 7A playoffs on Saturday at 1 p.m. Here is the rest of the Illinois schedule.

Class 8: Edwardsville at Oswego, Saturday, 6 p.m.

Class 5: Highland at Metamora, Saturday, 2 p.m.; Morris at Triad, Saturday, 3 p.m.

Class 4: Althoff at Taylorville, Saturday, 4 p.m.; Canton at Columbia, Saturday, 2 p.m.; Herrin at Mater Dei, Saturday, 1 p.m.

The ST. LouiS AmericAn PreP AThLeTeS of The Week

Alex Jones

Francis Howell – Football

ond player in league history to average a triple double for an entire season.

The senior running back in enjoyed a banner evening in leading the Vikings to a 24-14 victory over Fort Zumwalt West in the Class 6, District 3 semifinals. The 5’6” 172-pound Jones rushed for 231 yards on 33 carries and scored a touchdown to lead the Vikings. For the season, Jones has rushed for 1,456 yards on 227 carries and has scored nine touchdowns.

Francis Howell (9-2) will travel to Blue Springs on Friday night to take on the Wildcats in the District 2 championship game. Kickoff is at 7 p.m.

Chino Davis

Ladue – Football

The senior running back led Ladue to a 55-20 victory over St. Mary’s in the Class 4, District 2 semifinals last Friday night.

The 6’1” 215 pound Davis scored a total of four touchdowns for the Rams. He rushed for 116 yards on 17 carries and two touchdowns. He also caught two passes for 107 yards and two more scores.

For the season, Davis has rushed for 815 yards and has scored 22 touchdowns. On defense, Davis has recorded 72 tackles, two sacks, four fumble recoveries and one interception.

Ladue (10-1) will face MICDS for the district championship on Friday night at SLUH. Kickoff is at 7 p.m.

lights and excitement from the players as the winners are announced. Watching clips from the Grammys, Emmys, Oscars, etc. have gotten old.

However, watching vicious dunks, crazy crossovers or clutch three-pointers never gets old for true sports fans. Big ups to the NBA for making the change. Follow Ishmael and In the Clutch on Twitter @ IshmaelSistrunk

No KD, no problem. Russell Westbrook is on pace to become just the sec-

Carte’are Gordon

October

Sigma

Charmaine Chapman

CHAPMAN

continued from page B1

are reporting an increase in demand for services.

Marr encouraged those with means to remember that they could well be among the needy themselves.

“You realize how fortunate you are,” Mann said. “It could easily been the other way. So why would you not want to support people who are trying as much as anyone to better their lives and support their families? Why would you not want to help bring back those areas of our community that are really suffering the effects of

n “It could easily been the other way. So why would you not want to support people who are trying as much as anyone to better their lives and support their families?”

– Ann Marr, 2016 Charmaine Chapman Society co-chair

the economy?”

Since it was formed (by St. Louis American publisher Donald Suggs) in 1994, the Charmaine Chapman Society has raised more than $32 million for United Way services in the 16-county

Financial Focus

By Andre Nelson, AAMS

Put

by Michael Thomas

lessons to work in your financial plans

metropolitan region. It’s the oldest and largest AfricanAmerican philanthropic giving group associated with any United Way in the nation.

The United Way of Greater St. Louis’ overall 2016 campaign goal is $75 million, can campaign co-chairs are Steve Lipstein, president and CEO of BJC Healthcare, and Gene Diederich, partner of Moneta Group. Last year, more than 140,000 individuals and businesses donated to United Way to collectively raise a record $74.3 million. This year’s campaign ends November 14.

For more information about joining the Charmaine Chapman Society, contact Ashley Edwards at ashley. edwards@stl.unitedway.org or 314-539-4104.

The women of Delta

Theta Sorority, Inc. turned out in force when the United Way of Greater St. Louis’

Society’s held its Divine (9) Soiree on Thursday,

27 at Stonewolf Golf Club in Fairview Heights, Illinois. The event celebrates members of the local National Pan-Hellenic Council Greek Society and their service to the region.

Photo

Scoring ‘Show Me Democracy’

On the Catwalk for Breast Cancer awareness

October is national Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and models of all ages ripped the runway to raise funds for survivors and research during the Walk Fashion Show Goes Pink Saturday night at The Lux. Proceeds from the show benefited the Pink Angels Foundation.

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

J.R. creates music for SLIFF selection about Ferguson unrest and education reform

By Kenya Vaughn Of The

St. Louis American

“This is not just something I was hired to do,” said Grammy Award-winning producer Courtney Orlando, also known professionally as J.R. “I’m putting me into this because Ferguson is home for me. I was raised in Ferguson.”

He’s known as a producer, singer, songwriter and musician. But thanks to Dan Parris and his Speak Up Productions, J.R. has his first film score credit under his belt in “Show Me Democracy.”

It will screen as a part of the “Race in America: The Black Experience” programming of Cinema St. Louis’25th Annual St. Louis International Film Festival. SLIFF kicks off

A co-working artist space for Tyrell

Finesse Center honors memory of the late Tyrell Thompson

By Morgan Bradley

For The St. Louis American

This summer the death of Tyrell Thompson left a gaping hole in the St. Louis artist community. Since then, his sister Kayla Thompson and close friend Ashlee Johnson have taken on the task of developing and opening the Finesse Center, a co-working artist space in his memory. It will be available for an exclusive viewing on Thursday, November 10 at 1204 Washington Ave. in St. Louis.

November 10 would have been Tyrell’s 29th birthday.

“Ideally, the event is for potential members to see what the Finesse Center will eventually be and a celebration of life for Tyrell,” Thompson said. There will be a waiting list available for

people who would like to sign up to be a part of the center when it opens for business.

The Finesse Center will be a co-working space specifically tailored towards artists with office spaces for entrepreneurs and freelancers.

“It’s an open collaborative space and a place for artists to network in a professional atmosphere. There are several co-working spaces in St. Louis, but none are for artists and most aren’t that affordable,” Thompson said.

“We want to help people like Tyrell who just wanted to paint and create all day. Our plan is to have resources for artist and we also want to help them develop the business side of their work by introducing them to resources that will help them expand and sell their pieces.”

Thursday, November 3 and continues through November 13. The documentary – which sheds light on the Ferguson unrest and regional education reform efforts – will be shown Sunday, November 6 at 6:30 p.m. at the Center for Global Citizenship at Saint Louis University.

“There are a couple of fights [for justice] happening at the same time [in the film], and it’s truly needed,” J.R. said. “It’s centered around love, but it’s also centered around action.

“Show Me Democracy” reveals the efforts of seven student activists and their response to the Ferguson unrest. They share their experiences as protestors and advocates seeking to reform law enforcement and access to learning among

See SLIFF, C4

Robert Wilkins shares the origins of the Smithsonian National Museum

African American History and Culture as he discussed his book “Long Road to Hard Truth: The 100 Year Mission to Create the Museum of African American History and Culture” last week. The lecture was part of the Washington University School of Law’s 150th Anniversary festivities.

By Kenya Vaughn

Judge

Dan Parris’ film ‘Show Me Democracy’ will screen as part of the “Race in America: The Black Experience Programming” of the 2016 St. Louis International Film Festival on Sunday, November 6 at Saint Louis University’s Center for Global Citizenship.

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.

concerts

Nov. 3, 8 p.m., The Pageant welcomes Lil Uzi Vert, 6161 Delmar. For more information, visit www.thepageant.com

Fri., Nov. 4, 5 p.m., St. Louis Blues Museum presents Howlin Fridays feat. Marquise Knox. 615 Washington Ave., 63101. For more information, call (314) 925-0016.

Sat., Nov. 5, 8 p.m., The Sheldon Concert Hall presents Mavis Staples: Friends of the Sheldon Benefit Concert. 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, call (314) 533-9900 or visit www. thesheldon.org.

Sun., Nov. 6, Community Women Against Hardship Concert and Gala “Jazz in PinkS,” this year the already awesome group adds Harpist and Top 5 Billboard Magazine artist Mariea Antoinette. She joins keyboardist Gail Jhonson, violinist Karen Briggs, drummer Danielle Thompson, bassist Robin Bramlett and flautist Althea Rene. For tickets call Metro Tix at 314- 534-1111 or Community Women Against Hardship direct a 314- 289-7523

Sun., Nov. 6, 7 p.m., The Ready Room presents Kirko Bangz ft. Whitty. 4195 Manchester Ave., 63110. For more information, call (314) 833-3929.

Nov. 19, The Ambassador welcomes Meek Mill, 9800 Halls Ferry. For more information visit www. metrotix.com.

special events

Fri., Nov. 4, 10 p.m., Missouri District of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

presents The Throne Step Show After Party. Harris Stowe State University, 3101 Laclede Ave., 63103. For more information, call (314) 322-3134 or visit www. missouridistrict.eventbrite. com.

Sat., Nov. 5, 11:30 a.m., Soroptomist International of Greater St Louis’ 41st Annual Fashion Show. This year’s theme is “Women Stepping Up to Help Other Women”. In addition to the fashion show there will be basket raffles, silent auctions and pot of gold. Orlando Banquet Center, 2050 Dorsett Village Plaza, 63043. For more information, call (314) 355-1516 or visit www. soroptimiststlouis.com.

Wed., Nov. 9, 11 a.m., Diversity Job Fair. The Fair will allow job seekers to meet face to face with employers that have job opportunities available. This event is open to the public and is absolutely free for all job seekers. Employers will be hiring for many positions including: office administration, healthcare, IT & software, sales & marketing, retail management, insurance, human resources, transportation, and more. Bring multiple copies of your resume, business cards, a notepad and a pen. Ferguson Community Center, 1050 Smith Ave., 63135. For more information, call (314) 252-0306 or email jobfairs@ ezcritiqueit.com.

Thur., Nov. 10, 6:30 p.m., Caleres Fashion Show Entrepreneur Competition. Five St. Louisbased fashion makers will present their brands and vie for the competition win. Featuring interactive fashion presentations, innovative designs inspired by Caleres shoes, video presentations and live pitches from the finalists. This year, you’ll even get to help choose the People’s Choice winner, in a public vote online in advance

The Guide

The Sheldon Concert Hall presents Mavis Staples: Friends of the Sheldon Benefit Concert. For more information, see CONCERTS.

Featured Event

Sat., Nov. 12, 2 p.m., Solid Lines Productions presents Permanent Collections. Inspired by the Barnes Foundation in Philadelphia, the play examines the institutional, financial, and racial politics of collecting and exhibiting art. St. Louis Art Museum, One Fine Arts Dr., 63110. For more information, visit www. solidlinesproductions.com.

of the event. Majorette, 7150 Manchester Ave., 63143. For more information, visit www. eventrbrite.com.

Fri., Nov. 11, 10 a.m., 2016

C.O.G.I.C. Urban Initiatives’ Job Fair. Come and meet with employer’s looking to hire in the community. We will also offer jobseekers onsite access to free resume critique with Human Resources professionals. America’s Center, 701 Convention Plaza, 63101. For more information or to register, visit www. cogicjobfair2016.eventbrite. com.

Sat., Nov. 12, 7 p.m., The Naked Truth Clothing Company presents 50 Shades of Melanin Fashion Show Four our second fashion show we’ve invited Kris Cole, Vanity Stylz, and Chelsea Brey to slay the runway. Come support young fashion designers in their emergence onto the St. Louis fashion scene. 8001 Natural Bridge Rd., 63121. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Sat., Nov. 12, 8 p.m., ‘68 Alumni Classes 28th Anniversary Dance. Participating high schools include Laboure, O’Fallon, Beaumont, Sumner, Soldan, Deandreis, and Vashon. Machinist Hall, 12365 St. Charles Rock Rd., 63044. For more information, call (314) 489-4716.

Sun., Nov. 13, 5 p.m., Women in Business Fashion Show & Networking Event. North County Recreational Center, 2577 Redman Rd., 63136. For more information, call (314) 6294021 or visit www.facebook. com/ dbfashionandnet workingevents.

comedy

Nov. 4 – Nov. 5, Helium Comedy Club welcomes Arsenio Hall, Helium Comedy Club, 1151 St. Louis Galleria Street. For more information, visit http://st-louis. heliumcomedy.com/ or call (314) 727-1260.

Fri., Nov. 4, 12 p.m., Webster University presents Friday Lecture with Mohau Modisakeng. Material, metaphor and the black body are the tools that Modisakeng uses to explore the influence of South Africa’s violent history that has been ignored in today’s society, on how we understand our cultural, political, and social roles as human beings in post-colonial Africa and in particular post-apartheid South Africa. Sverdrup Building, 8300 Big Bend Blvd., 63119. For more information, call (314) 968-7171 or visit www. dadahwebsteru.com.

Fri., Nov. 11, 8 p.m., UrbArts presents She’s Got Jokes. Featuring comedians Jamie’e Elizabeth, Karen Nelson, Precious J Comedic Beast, and Tiffany James Robinson. 2600 N. 14th St., 63106. For more information, call (314) 374-3419.

Sat., Nov. 12, 6 p.m., YCYOS Entertainment presents A Dose of Laughter Christian Comedy Show. Fun with family and friends as you laugh your way into the beginning of the holidays. Enjoy music, comedy, food, pictures and more. Florissant Assumbly of God, 1425 S. New Florissant Rd., 63031. For more information, visit www.ycyos.ticketbud.com/ dose-of-laughter.

Nov. 25-27, Helium Comedy Club welcomes D.L. Hughley, Helium Comedy Club, 1151 St. Louis Galleria Street. For more information, visit http://st-louis. heliumcomedy.com/ or call (314) 727-1260.

literary

Thur., Nov. 3, 7 p.m., Left Bank Books hosts author Ryan Berg, author of No House to Call My Home: Love, Family, and Other Transgressions Berg immerses readers in the gritty, dangerous, and shockingly underreported world of homeless LGBTQ teens in New York. 399 N. Euclid Ave., 63108. For more information, call (314) 3676731 or visit www.left-bank. com.

Fri., Nov. 11, 5 p.m., Green Door art gallery’s exhibit “Barcelona, Paris and Villages of Southern France” is hosting a reception featuring Michele Wells, Vic Mastis, Linda Briesacher, Gretchen Gackstatter, Suzie Tenzer, Julie Bell, Carolyn Tschomakoff and Marilyn Callahan and 30 other artists. The exhibit will be available from November 9 thru January 6, 2017 - 21 N. Gore Ave, Webster Groves MO 63119, www.Greendoorartgallery.com 314-402-1959.

theatre

Nov. 4 – 5, COCA presents Akeelah and the Bee Akeelah has a crazy passion for words: the more abstruse and labyrinthine, the better. But this gift is almost overwhelmed by the challenge of her daily life in a tough, Chicago neighborhood. 524 Trinity Ave., 63130. For more information, call (314) 5614877 or visit www.cocastl.org/ event.

Nov. 4 – 13, Hawthorne Players present Driving Miss Daisy. Florissant Civic Center Theatre, 1 James J. Eagan Dr., 63033. For more information, call (314) 921-5678 or visit www.florissantmo.com.

Sat., Nov. 5, 8 p.m., The Black Rep will continue the celebration of its 40th season of theatre with a concert version of the classic musical DREAMGIRLS. E. Desmond Lee Concert Hall at the 560 Music Center, 560 Trinity Ave, 63130. For tickets and/ or additional details, call The Black Rep at (314) 534-3810 or visit www.theblackrep.org.

Through Nov. 6, Repertory Theatre St. Louis presents Until the Flood. Celebrated

writer, performer and Pulitzer Prize finalist Dael Orlandersmith spent a week in St. Louis interviewing people from every corner of the region about recent social unrest. The play is a mosaic of voices that tells our region’s story without advancing any one viewpoint above others. 130 Edgar Rd., 63119. For more information, call (314) 968-4925 or visit www.repstl.org.

Nov. 11 – 12, Cardinal Ritter College Prep presents The Meeting. This eloquent play depicts the supposed meeting of two of the most important men of modern times: Malcolm X and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. There will be a community forum following Saturday’s performance. 701 N. Spring Ave., 63108. For more information, call (314) 446-5500.

Sat., Nov. 12, 2 p.m., Solid Lines Productions presents Permanent Collections Inspired by the Barnes Foundation in Philadelphia, the play examines the institutional, financial, and racial politics of collecting and exhibiting art. A talkback with the actors and director will also feature Nichole Bridges: Associate Curator in Charge of Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas. St. Louis Art Museum, One Fine Arts Dr., 63110. For more information, visit www. solidlinesproductions.com.

Nov. 12 – 18, Rebel and Misfits Productions presents Hamlet: See What I See. The first show in a series of true immersive theatre experiences, which create no line between the actors and spectators. The ensemble features both local and national talent, anchored by NYC-based television and film actor, Brandon Alan Smith, as Hamlet. Barnett on Washington, 3207 Washington Ave., 63103. For more information, call (419) 438-2895 or visit www. theimmersivetheatreproject. com.

lectures and workshops

Wednesdays through Nov. 9, 7 p.m., The Missouri Bar presents the Fall 2016 Mini Law School for the Public. The more you know about the laws that affect you, the easier it is to make good decisions about your life, your family, and your finances. St. Louis County Council, 41 S. Central Ave., 63105. For more information, call (866) 366-0270 or visit www. missourilawyershelp.org/minilaw-school.

Thur., Nov. 10, 2 p.m., SLATE presents Legal Clinic for Entrepreneurs. Aspiring

entrepreneurs are often confronted with challenges when launching a startup or developing an existing business. Appointments required. 1520 Market St., 63103. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (314) 657-3768.

Thur., Nov. 10, 7:30 p.m., OSI Speaker Series: An Evening with George Takei. From a childhood spent with his family wrongfully imprisoned in a Japanese Internment Camp during WWII, to becoming one of the country’s leading figures in the fight for social justice, LGBTQ rights, and marriage equality-George Takei remains a powerful voice on issues ranging from politics to pop culture. Touhill Performing Arts Center, UMSL, One University Blvd., 63121. For more information, call (314) 516-5291 or visit www.touhill. org/events.

Sat., Nov. 12, 10 a.m., Financial Literacy Workshop. Learn and LOL, making money work for you. Come out for comedy and financial education. Lunch provided and entertainment by Smile Advantage. Drury Inn & Suites, 8700 Eager Rd., 63144. For more information, email calvin.dantley@gwrymca.org.

health

Thur., Nov. 10, 7 a.m., Traffic School for Healthcare Professionals: Effective Responses to Victims of Human Trafficking. This seminar provides the current, evidence-based literature on the epidemiologic aspects, identification, care, referral, and community-based service resources. Goldfarb School of Nursing, Barnes Jewish College, 4483 Duncan Ave., 63110. For more information, email cmalott@ymcastlouis. org.

Sat., Nov. 12, 6 p.m., 30th Annual National Kidney Foundation Gala. Proceeds from the evening will benefit the National Kidney Foundation’s efforts on the awareness, prevention and treatment of kidney disease. Your support will help to fund important programs like kidney health screenings, patient assistance hotline and peer mentoring program, and advocacy programs. Hilton Saint Louis at the Ballpark, 1 S. Broadway, 63102. For more information, call (314) 9612828 or visit www.kidney.org.

Sat., Nov. 12, 9 a.m., Mercy Seat Missionary Baptist Church Community Health Awareness Fair, 4424 Dr. James Brown Sr., Dr. (Formerly: Washington Ave.) For information, call Mercy Seat Missionary Baptist Church 314-531- 3759.

Sat., Nov. 12, 4 p.m., Winter Fit for Diabetes. A seminar to raise awareness about the dangers of diabetes and how to take care of yourself. Dellwood Community Center, 10266 W. Florissant, 63136. For more information, email lwise@northwestschools.net.

Tuesdays & Thursdays, 7:30 p.m., Get Sexy Movement Boot Camp. Station styled boot camp with 1 minute at each station for three rounds. North County Recreation Center, 2577 Redman Rd., 63136.For more information, call (314) 898-8898.

spiritual

Sat., Nov. 5, 8 p.m., 3rd

Annual iScribe Poetry Soiree – Grown and Blessed Edition. We will have poetry, open mic, live music, vendors, giveaways and more. We will be giving God all the glory, and sharing our stories through poetry and song. This year’s show will feature several Christian Spoken Word Artists including: Jeremiah ‘KRY’ Jackson, JailElle, Prophetic Poet Tyrone Ellis, and Tamara Dickerson. Kranzberg Arts Center, 501 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, call (312) 774-4321 or visit www.eventbrite.com.

Nov. 7- Nov. 15, Church of God in Christ 109th Holy Convocation, America’s Center. For more information, visit www.cogic.org.

Sun., Nov. 6, 7 p.m., The Department of Evangelism

presents Preacher-Rama. Speakers include Bishop Charles Blake, Bishop Elijah Hankerson III, Dr. Rita Womack, Ruby Holland, Dr. Dorinda Clark Cole, and Pastor Aaron Robbins. Life Center International, 8500 Halls Ferry Rd., 63147. For more information, call (314) 395-2808.

Fri., Nov. 11, 6 p.m., When St. Louis Prays – Worship & Prayer Shut-In. Join us to pray for our city and country in a cross-denominational and diverse gathering to pray in unity. The evening will begin with a workshop on how to be more strategic and effective in our prayer life. Afterwards, prayer and worship will continue throughout the night, with specific targeted themes led by local pastors, psalmists and community leaders.

All ages are welcome to this free overnight event. Mt. Zion M.B. Church, 1444 S. Compton Ave., 63104. For more information, call (314) 324-7248 or visit www. whenstlprays.eventbrite.com.

film

Nov. 3-Nov. 13, Cinema St. Louis presents 25th Annual Whitaker St. Louis International Film Festival, 419 films: 111 narrative features, 73 documentary features, and 235 shorts. The fest also will feature 15 special-event programs, including four free master classes and the closing-night party. This year’s festival has 72 countries represented. The fest schedule, ticket and venue information, and a complete list of films (with

descriptions) are available at www.cinemastlouis.org. For more information, visit www. cinemastlouis.org or call 314289-4150.

Thur., Nov. 3, 6 p.m., St. Louis Public Library presents What About Us: Dispelling the Myth of Deadbeat Dads Film Screening The film will be followed by a panel discussion on black fatherhood. Central Branch, 1301 Olive St., 63103. For more information, call (314) 241-2288 or visit www.slpl.org.

Fri., Nov. 4, 7 p.m., St. Louis Pan Afrikan Movement presents Black Power Movie Night: Cry Freedom. The tension and terror of apartheid South Africa is powerfully portrayed in this sweeping story of black activist Stephen Biko and a liberal white newspaper editor who risks his own life to bring Biko’s message to the world. 4212 Virginia Ave., 63111. For more information, email stlpanafrikanmovement@ gmail.com.

Fri., Nov. 4, 9 p.m., J-Wha Film presents the STL P.D. the Movie Premier Red Carpet Event Things take a turn for the worst when Narcotic Agents Jay Brooks and Ricky Thompson set out to take down the city’s most notorious drug dealer Jeffery “Face” Lewis. What begins as a simple drug bust quickly spirals out of control. The Lux Theatre, 2619 Washington Ave., 63103. For more information, call (314) 732-5942 or visit www. eventbrite.com.

Wed., Nov. 9, 6 p.m., The Ethics Project & Rare Gem Productions presents 13th Film Screening. A documentary by director Ava DuVernay, that centers on race in the United States criminal justice system. The film is titled after the Thirteenth Amendment, which theoretically outlawed slavery. The film will be followed by a panel discussion. Hillman Hall, Washington University, 6465 Forsythe Ave., 63105.

St. Louis Blues Museum presents Howlin Fridays featuring Marquise Knox.

See CONCERTS for additional details.

communities disenfranchised because of race, citizenship status and socio-economic barriers.

Parris and J.R. had worked together in the past, and he was more than excited to provide music for the film.

“I’m really weary about people doing documentaries about here when they aren’t from here,” J.R. “But I’ve known Dan for 10 years, and he really has a heart for the city. When he showed me the trailer, I was like, ‘Bro, this is good!’”

He admitted he was slightly intimidated by the process – which included watching scenes from the film over and over and attempting to capture the energy and emotion by writing music to either help the

scenes “transition, digress or ramp up.”

“Making music for film is not like producing a regular song,” J.R. said. “You have to watch for the different frequencies you may use that may get in the way of the dialogue. You are making

discounted access to the music studio located in the building.

Private offices will be offered at $300 a month. Drop-in rates will also be available.

Regular membership will be $50 a month, which provides 24-hour key access to the secure space, an office address for postal mail, Wi-Fi, conference rooms, workshops, seminars and access to event space. Members will have

“Our goal is to make it as affordable as possible,” Johnson said.

The name of the space is derived from Tyrell’s nickname, Rell Finesse. “We took that, Finesse, as making a way out of no way,” Thompson said. “The Finesse Center is a

music to be under someone speaking. You’re painting the canvas of musical vibes that marries what they’re hearing and what they are seeing.”

Part of that marriage for this film was making sure the sound was “so St. Louis.”

“It has an urban and hip-

way for artists to make a way out of no way.”

Thompson has had access to the building for years via her uncle, Tony Thompson, founder of Kwame Building Group, who owns the building. Previously she considered opening an event space on the first floor, but it never worked out.

She and Johnson came up with idea for Finesse Center while discussing what they could do after Tyrell passed away, when many people were inquiring about where they could send monetary donations.

“So we developed the idea for an artist space,” Thompson said.

“At the same time I was working on a proposal for a co-working space,” Johnson said, “so we decided to turn the idea into a co-working art space.”

They hope the viewing event makes people more aware of what a co-working space and how it might benefit artists.

Both ladies were inspired by Tyrell’s concept of his own home as a space where people could come together and work on their craft.

Johnson said, “This is what Tyrell dedicated his life to.”

Tickets for the Exclusive Viewing of the Finesse Center, 1204 Washington Ave., from 7-11 p.m. Thursday, November 10 are $25 and available at www.Finessecenterexclusive. Eventbrite.com. All proceeds will go towards the development of the Finesse Center.

Dan Parris and J.R. in the

studio working on the soundtrack to the SLIFF ilm “Show Me Democracy.”

hop feel, but it also has an emotional feel,” J.R. said. “I’d say it’s soulful and has a nice palate. When you have indie films, a lot of times you have royalty-free tracks that you buy off of the internet. I crafted each one of these songs – and I tried to keep it St. Louis with my music production for all of them.”

‘A film that inspires action’

J.R. hopes that as people watch “Show Me Democracy” they are inspired to keep fighting racism.

“Practicing racism means

MUSEUM

Continued from C1

was planted that ultimately birthed the museum. As the nation gathered to commemorate the Union’s victory over the Confederacy, more than 185,000 soldiers were omitted from the celebration.

They were later invited to the White House as a consolation, only to be told by then president Andrew Johnson that while they had fought for the nation, they shouldn’t dare think that the former slaves and free people of color who risked their lives in the nation’s deadliest battle had earned the right to citizenship.

“That was the state of Black America at the end of the Civil War,” Wilkins said. “It was symbolic of the bigger issue of what would be the place of people of African descent in America at the end of this great conflict.”

The issue was still at hand as Civil War veterans gathered 50 years later for the Grand Army of the Republic’s commemoration. Soldiers and sailors of color were invited to attend, but – in line with the laws of Jim Crow – the ceremonies were segregated.

The National Memorial Association was formed to ensure that servicemen of color would be recognized by the United States for their contributions not only in the

that you do not love your brother as yourself,” J.R. said.

“It needs to be eradicated, because I don’t care if they are black, white, Asian or Hispanic, if they are your neighbor, then we ought to want to love our neighbors as ourselves.”

He said people need to be fighting racism on a legislative level, on a protest level, on a volunteer level, as well as in their homes and schools.

“This film talks about it all,” J.R. said. “And you see these journeys of these people.”

One subject’s mother traveled on a car tire to get into the United States from Mexico to make a better life for herself and her family.

“It’s telling the story of the oppressed, but it’s also telling the story of those of us who are privileged, who can say, ‘Hey, I can do my part by loving you and sharing this city together.

Let’s do it together.”

J.R. sings the praises of

Civil War but in every battle – including the one that led to the country’s inception. They began working with Congress to authorize the construction of a National Memorial to honor black soldiers and sailors.

“The legislation was introduced on their behalf in December of 1916 – and the congressman who introduced that legislation was Leonidas Dyer, a graduate of this law school,” Wilkins said.

“Congressman Dyer is also known for introducing federal anti-lynching legislation around the same time in response to the massive riot in East St. Louis.”

Out of that initial legislation came the notion to expand the celebration of the contributions of African Americans beyond military service – which laid the foundation for 100 years of relentless pursuit of a physical space that added the chapters of our narrative to American history.

“James Baldwin summed it up in 1968 when he testified before Congress,” Wilkins said.

“He said, ‘My history contains the truth about America. It’s going to be hard to teach.’ His words inspired the title of my book.”

Birth of a race

In 1916, D.W. Griffith’s “Birth of a Nation” was being heralded as an epic masterpiece as it sold out in theatres across the country. The racist propaganda film depicted black men as savage detriments to American life with the end goal of violent conquest of white women – and whose equal treatment would result in the end of civilized society in the United States.

Under the leadership of Ferdinand De Soto Lee, the Colored Citizens Committee worked to provide a counter narrative to the film with the celebration of black achievement by way of a physical institution that highlighted the contributions

SLIFF for using Ferguson as a springboard to allow the creative community to continue the conversation on race through cinema. “If anyone is going to give a culture or civilization a voice, it’s going to be the artist community,” J.R. said.

“Because of Cinema St. Louis, we have advocates that say, ‘Let them tell the story, and we will give them a platform,’ and I’m grateful for it.”

“Show Me Democracy” screens at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, November 6 at the Center for Global Citizenship at Saint Louis University, 3672 West Pine Mall. For more information and a full schedule of the films of the Whitaker 25th Annual St. Louis International Film Festival, which continues through November 13 at various locations, visit www. cinemastlouis.org or call (314) 289-4150.

and achievements of black people.

“They distributed flyers that said, in all caps, ‘BIRTH OF A RACE’ as they solicited others to join the movement to help build the museum,” Wilkins said.

Ten years later, leaders of the Colored Citizens Committee met with President Herbert Hoover to pitch the idea of being granted federal funding to help construct the museum. Hoover not only told them no, but he refused to pose for a photo with the group – which included Mary Church Terrell and Mary McLeod Bethune.

“He had a policy at the time where he refused to take photos with ‘colored’ citizens,” Wilkins said.

Generations would pass –and plenty of the committed individuals would pass away – before the museum officially opened its doors on the National Mall on September 24 of this year.

“You went from a president who wouldn’t provide any funding and wouldn’t even take a picture with them to a museum opening almost 100 years later with a sitting black president,” said Wilkins. “How much has the script been flipped when you think about that?”

Wilkins was nominated by President Obama to the United States Court of Appeals for D.C. He became a part of the leadership team that helped in the home stretch of the work to open the museum 20 years ago in 1996 – and he felt a book detailing the centurylong efforts was a necessary accompaniment to give insight to the journey.

“I’m not saying, ‘Oh, it’s all peaches and cream and we’ve arrived and everything’s perfect and racism is gone,’” Wilkins said. “But the process shows the progress that we’ve made – and looking at this museum, and the dedication that went into making it a reality, gives a glimpse of that.”

Fighting for freedom: World War I and African Americans

367,710 blacks served – 9,219 were from Missouri

By Patrick Allie Guest columnist

Although it’s largely overshadowed by World War II, World War I was a time of great change in the United States. It laid the groundwork for later social and political movements of the 20th century, and no group was more affected than African Americans.

Beginning in 1914, the United States began to equip warring countries in Europe. The ensuing wartime-industry boom attracted workers from the southern United States to industrial centers throughout the Midwest. Chicago, Detroit, and St. Louis offered economic opportunities that were unavailable in the South.

During the Great Migration, African Americans poured into St. Louis to take factory jobs at companies such as Scullin Steel, Wagner Electric, and the Aluminum Ore Company. Black workers received lower wages than their white peers—and sometimes served as strikebreakers—and began moving into primarily white neighborhoods on the east side.

The boom also presented opportunities to African American women. As men marched off to war, women in the garment and textile industries were pulled into factory and manufacturing jobs. As a result, African American women improved their socioeconomic status.

But it also led to tensions that boiled over in the East St. Louis race riots of 1917. Following an isolated occurrence of rioting on May 28, 1917, increasing pressure sparked more rioting on July 2, 1917. It left between 40 and 200 African Americans dead, and thousands more homeless. After the riots, the St. Louis Argus commented, “The entire country has been aroused to a sense of shame and pity by the magnitude of the national disgrace enacted by the bloodthirsty rioters in East St. Louis Monday, July 2.” The events shocked the nation, and at the end of the month nearly 10,000 people marched through the streets of New York City in silent protest.

On April 6, 1917, shortly before the East St. Louis race riots, the United States had officially entered World War I. In an attempt to create an army out of nothing, President Woodrow Wilson made the

controversial decision to institute a draft, requiring men between the ages of 18 and 45 to register for military service. African Americans were not exempt, though a segregated military mandated that they serve in all-black units. Nearly 300,000 African Americans registered for the draft in 1917. Over the course of the war, 367,710 African Americans were drafted or volunteered for military service, and of those, 9,219 were from Missouri. These men were largely assigned to non-combat roles in

n On April 6, 1917, shortly before the East St. Louis race riots, the United States had oficially entered World War I.

construction, labor, and service regiments.

The 93rd Infantry Division was an exception. The soldiers saw intense combat—but as part of the French Army. Because African Americans weren’t allowed to serve in combat next to American troops, American commander General John J. Pershing assigned the 93rd to the French Army. Bearing French equipment and firearms, the 93rd Division served with

distinction.

The most famous among the units was the 369th Regiment, who earned the nickname “Harlem Hellfighters” for their courage and tenacity. One was St. Louisan Ulysses Tebbs. Tebbs grew up north of downtown and enlisted in the army on October 26, 1917. He served with the 369th in France as part of a machine gun company until he was killed in action on September 29, 1918, during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Ulysses Tebbs is listed among the war dead on the World War I cenotaph at Soldiers Memorial Military Museum in downtown St. Louis.

The time spent overseas was transformative for many blacks. Civil rights leader A. Philip Randolph referred to the postwar African American as the “New Negro” who demanded equality and possessed a stronger sense of militancy and organization. Away at war, blacks were treated as equals by the French and the British—something that did not happen at home. Further, many felt America joined the war to preserve freedom and democracy— and that these ideals apply to them as well. They returned to a changed America where the pre-war status quo was unsustainable. Randolph’s postwar “New Negro” set the stage for the civil rights movement nearly half a century later.

Congressmen oppose prison gerrymandering

Clay, Cummings, Serrano, colleagues urge Census Bureau to district prisoners in home towns

American staff

On October 27, U.S. Reps. Elijah E. Cummings (D-MD), José E. Serrano (D-NY) and Wm. Lacy Clay (D-MO) sent a letter to U.S. Census Bureau Population Division Chief Karen Humes urging the Bureau to amend a proposed rule, which would allow states to count incarcerated persons at prison facilities at which they are incarcerated on Census Day, instead of their last known address.

“The Bureau’s process of counting prisoners where prisoners are imprisoned, instead of at their last known address before incarceration allows state governments to participate in prison gerrymandering,” they wrote. “The crafters of legislative districts engage in prison gerrymandering when they include prisons in districts where none of the incarcerated reside.”

State and federal correctional

facilities held an estimated 1.6 million prisoners on December 31, 2013, including a disproportionately high number of African-American and Latino men who often reside in low-income urban areas before entering prison.

Failing to count incarcerated individuals in their home communities also affects the federal resources these communities receive. According to the Bureau, the census helps determine the allocation of more than $400 billion in federal dollars annually, including funding for critical

n Failing to count incarcerated individuals in their home communities shifts federal funding from prisoners’ home districts to the district in which the prison is located.

projects like new schools and hospitals. As a result, federal funding is shifted from prisoners’ home districts to the district in which the prison is located.

Earlier this year, the Federal District Court for Florida’s

Northern District ruled that Jefferson County, Florida violated its residents’ 14th Amendment right by including the prison population in its district.

Some states have enacted legislation to prevent prison gerrymandering – requiring or encouraging local governments to count incarcerated citizens in their district of last known address rather than the district in which they are incarcerated. While the proposed rule would allow the states that have enacted legislation to prevent prison gerrymandering to continue doing so, the members called on the Census Bureau to set a federal standard to prevent prison gerrymandering in all states.

“The Bureau should be commended for its proposed efforts in this matter,” they wrote. “However, it is clear the Census needs to do more to prevent prison gerrymandering by counting incarcerated prisoners at their last known address before incarceration, and not at their prison address.” The letter was also signed by Reps. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Brenda Lawrence (D-MI), Grace Napolitano (D-CA), Alan Lowenthal (D-NY), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY), Donald S. Beyer, Jr. (D-VA), Donna F. Edwards (D-MD), Barbara Lee (D-CA) and Stacey E. Plaskett (D-VI).

A World War I poster from 1918 by E.G. Renesh titled “Colored Man Is No Slacker.”

Student Honors

Three Normandy High School students have been inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society chapter at St. Louis Community College–Florissant Valley. Kalien Boykin

junior; Lauren Bowers, and Jahon Amhad-Gol (both seniors) are participating in the Gateway to College Scholars Academy, which offers special enrichment opportunities to students who have exhibited exceptional cognitive abilities, leadership qualities and have a need for a more rigorous and challenging academic experience.

Reunions

Beaumont Class of 1967 will meet at the Natural Bridge County Library, 7606 Natural Bridge 63121 at 1:30 pm on Saturday, Nov. 19, and Dec. 17. Please update your contact info at Beaumontclassof67@ sbcglobal.net. We will be mailing info soon.

Beaumont High School,

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.

Central Visual and Performing Arts Class of 1996 will be hosting its 20th Year Anniversary Spooktacular Soiree Reunion Kickoff Event at Central Visual and Performing Arts Gym, 3125 S Kingshighway Blvd, on October 29 from 7:00 pm-11:30 pm, admission $20. For more information contact Dr. Miranda Avant-Elliott, at cvapclassof96@gmail.com or visit the VAP C/O of 1996 20th Yr Reunion Facebook page.

Celebrations

Birthdays

I want to wish my smart, intelligent, driven, always smiling, shy, beautiful daughter Jordan “Luv” Jackson a Happy “Sweet 16” Birthday on November 3! I’m so blessed to call you daughter!! You bring us so much Joy! Love, Porter, Evie, & Mom

Shouting out loud Happy Birthday to my beautiful, smart, wonderful daughter, Bryana Neal, on November 6. I wish you the best in everything you do. Love, Your Mom (Tracy Neal)

Happy Birthday to my gorgeous niece, Ciara Jones, on November 3. Love you! Your aunt (Tracy Neal)

Sumner Class of 1965 is planning a “70th” Birthday Cruise for October 2017. If you’re interested and want to receive more information, please contact Luther Maufas (314) 541-4556, Brenda Smith Randall (314)382-1528, or Laura Young (314) 328-3512 with name, address so the info can be mailed to you.

Sumner Class of 1967 is planning its 50-year reunion and need contact information from those classmates. Please contact Carlotte Algee Stancil at algee1999@ yahoo.com; DonnaYoung Rycraw at donnarycraw@ aol.com or Stella Smith Hunt at stellalhunt58@sbcglobal. net, 314-381-5104 with email, address and phone number.

Vashon High School 90th Anniversary Celebration will be held at Renaissance Hotel Airport St. Louis, October 6-7, 2017. On October 5, 2017, there will be an Alumni Day at Vashon High School. Please save the dates.

Vashon Class of 1957 is having its 60-year reunion on May 20, 2017 at the Atrium at the rear of Christian N.E. Hospital on Dunn Road. Classes 1955-1959 are welcomed. For more information, please contact Lovely (Green) Deloch at 314867-1470, Marlene (Randall) Porter at 314-653-0107, Mae (Simmons) Mahone at 314653-0818 or Phyllis (Bolden) Washington at 314-531-9925.

Vashon Class of 1967 is planning its 50-year reunion and is need of contact information for all interested alumni. Please contact JoAnn Alvoid at alvoidjoe8@gmail. com; Sarah (Taylor) Robinson at srobinson647@hotmail. com; or Sonya (Walker) Smith at 314.381.8221, with your address, email and phone number.

St. Louis Community College needs your help identifying STLCC alumni. Alumni are encouraged to visit the website: www.stlcc.edu/foundation/, to become members or update information. For more information, contact Ashley Budde, coordinator of alumni relations, at abudde6@stlcc. edu, or 314-539-5145.

Do you have a celebration you’re proud of? If so we would like to share your good news with our readers. Whether it’s a birth, wedding, engagement announcement, anniversary, retirement or birthday, send your photos and a brief announcement (50 words or less) to us and we may include it in our paper and website – AT NO COST – as space is available Photos will not be returned. Send your announcements to: kdaniel@stlamerican. com or mail to: St. Louis American Celebrations c/o Kate Daniel 2315 Pine St. St. Louis, 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

Jordan ‘Luv’ Jackson

Bryana Neal

Ciara Jones

Religion

Faith communities mobilize to protect vulnerable voters

“Matthew 25: Witness the Vote” campaign

American staff

Longtime Christian social justice movement, Sojourners is leveraging its network of people, partner churches and social justice organizations to witness and confront voter intimidation on Election Day. Volunteers will help maintain a peaceful voting experience, especially for vulnerable voters who are being targeted. Many volunteers will be well-versed in non-violence training; which could be very important if the political polarization in this country continues to spiral downwards.

Recent unsubstantiated claims of a “rigged” election or the need to watch for fraudulent activity at the polls is stirring vigilantes - some have been quoted in the media discussing racial profiling and even violence.

“Deliberately suppressing voting rights is the most effective technique for those seeking to obstruct the changes brought about by the new demographics in this country,” Jim Wallis, founder and president of Sojourners, said. “That is a fundamental moral issue, a democracy issue, not just a partisan one.”

The Sojourners-led “Matthew 25: Witness the Vote” campaign asks participating organizations to be a faithful presence at the polls by providing food, water, chairs, support and a watchful eye if necessary. Volunteers will be prepared to report any suspicious activity and offer their phones should anyone need to consult with attorneys regarding activity at the polls.

“Every vote is crucial in this election,” Lisa Sharon Harper, chief church engagement officer at Sojourners said. “We want to safeguard the right to vote – a right many people have died for.”

In swing states like North Carolina, Ohio, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Florida and Michigan, where voter

suppression tactics have been prevalent, voter protection efforts are particularly important.

“It should be said that certain candidates and office holders going back to Richard Nixon’s Southern Strategy have appealed to white racial resentment to win votes, often by using coded language,” Wallis said. “But this year we are seeing an unprecedented amount of open appeals to bigotry, xenophobia, and racism.”

Wallis recently detailed the ongoing effort to maintain White Supremacy and has called for a renewed effort to combat it in 21st century.

The “Matthew 25: Witness the Vote” campaign is calling church leaders to show up in clergy collars and bring members from their congregations - even church choirs to serenade and sustain people in line at the polls. Participating churches will be using the

Shirmel Wiggs with Black Girls Vote, a nonpartisan group that works to register women of color to vote, attended the 2016 Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia.

Photo courtesy of Sojourners

The Message

Prayer in the morning

hashtag #WitnesstheVote. Voter protection resource materials created for the campaign can be found at www.sojo.net/election.

Northside Seventh-Day Adventist hosts Transformation

Northside Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 9001 Lucas & Hunt Rd., will host Transformation from November 4-19 with services at 7 p.m. every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday. Meals will be provided 6 p.m. every Wednesday. Child care (3-10 years old) will be provided each night. For free transportation, call 314-299-8403. Organizers say to expect “soul-stirring singing and Bible-based preaching.” For more information, call 314-868-0707.

In the morning I am not particularly in need of anything, but I understand now that calling upon the Lord is an act of spiritual clarification. From evening prayer to dawn’s affirmation of God’s power, I have definitely taken this time as much for granted as anyone. After some morning prayer practice, it’s becoming apparent that I need to thank God for seeing me through the night. I ask Him to order my steps, guide my thoughts and allow me to do something during the course of the day to show appreciation for allowing me to wake up. If you allow yourself to concentrate on what God has done for you on any given day, then it becomes obvious that He is indeed here and working wonders on your behalf. If you do not believe, try this. At the end of today, take a moment and reflect on those things that you can think of that prove God was with you all day. Start with this morning, because you really didn’t have to wake up. If you hadn’t noticed, some people didn’t. If you drove, flew, took a cab somewhere and arrived safely, you might want to give God a little credit for your being accident-free. You might have even passed one on your way. Can you remember seeing anyone in need of food, clothing, a few dollars, maybe a bath? But it wasn’t you?

All “natural disasters” on this day missed your house. No floods? No tornadoes? No hurricanes? No earthquakes?

While I’m at it, how’s your family? Are your kids healthy? Are they simply alive and still breathing today? Is someone you know under intense pressure, emotionally, financially, physically? Can you begin to see where I’m coming from?

God’s Hand is everywhere in your life. Once you begin to realize that God is present all the time, then prayer easily and rapidly becomes praise. Once you recognize the real possibility that God held your hand today, then it stands to reason that a genuine thank you is in order.

So now out of any sleep I’m awakening from comes a hand palms open with a praise that goes something like this, “Thank you, Father God, for seeing me through the night. Stay with me and remind me during the course of this day of your infinite blessings bestowed upon me. Let me do something. Let me say something today to make you proud and show you my appreciation of your giving me the time and opportunity to demonstrate who I am and whose I am to the world.”

The words might change from time to time, but the intent is the same. From “goodnight” in the evening to “hello” in the morning gives all of us a real opportunity to understand the simple gift of life. That time between sleep and awakening is worth praising God for.

Columnist James Washington

ASSEMBLY

or email to info@hopehousestl.com.

HELP WANTED HHA aides, CNAs, LPNs & transportation driver with good driving record all applicants

JOBS Window mfg. co. has assembly jobs now! Temp-to-perm, 1st shift, 40 hr/wk, mid-Stl County. Tape measure & power tool skills and 75# lifting req’d. $10.00/hr, Nextemps Staffing, 314-727-1060, Jerry. Search Nextemps on craigslist.

MEMBERSHIP OFFICER

CHIEF OF

WEBSITE COORDINATOR

HIRING FAIR

DIRECTOR

Looking for an exciting and rewarding career? Charter is currently looking for Cable Technicians and Service Delivery Coordinators I- Day of Job.

We are seeking dynamic candidates who like a challenge and an opportunity for success. Please join us to learn more about this opportunity at one of our Information Sessions:

Saturday, November 19, 2016 from 8am-noon at 101 Northwest Plaza, Saint Ann MO 63074

Charter Communications is America’s fastest growing TV, internet and voice company. Charter has been named one of the Best Places to Work in St. Louis and ofers competitive salary with excellent beneits that include medical/ dental/vision health coverage, 401k, paid vacation and holidays, discounted or complimentary broadband services (cable, internet, telephone –where available) and more.

We are proud to be a drug free Equal Opportunity/Airmative Action Employer M/F/D/V

School Year** WEBSTER GROVES SCHOOL DISTRICT PAYROLL COORDINATOR

Qualifications/Experience:

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Accounting, or related degree is preferred.

• Minimum 5 years of experience in payroll operations in a government or school accounting situation. Experience with ADP, ReportSmith, Aesop, eTime Reporting and/or similar payroll systems.

Advanced computer skills, specifically Microsoft Excel and Access; strong knowledge base and user of MS Office.

Shall have a minimum typing performance of 50 wpm; be very accurate in typing figures and doing tabulation

ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES PLANNER

COUNSELOR FOR ONLINE STUDENT ADMISSIONS

Black Jack Fire Protection District is seeking candidates for the positions of Firefighter/ Paramedic. Details, requirements and instructions (Candidate Guidelines) are listed below:

Interested candidates must complete an “Application for Employment Form” at the Fire District’s Headquarters located at 5675 North Highway 67, Florissant Missouri, 63034. Application forms will be available and accepted from 08:00AM (CST) to 4:00 PM, (CST) Monday through Friday, October 31, 2016 through November 4, 2016. Details and instructions can also be found on our website: http//www.blackjackfire.org.

“We have received some great responses. It is a great paper and I am seeing it more and more places.”

-Wendi B. Recruiting Manager

The Missouri State Employees’ Retirement System (MOSERS) is looking for someone with a passion for design, technology, and customer service to fill the website coordinator position. This position plays a pivotal role in researching, identifying, and implementing the best technology for online communications. The person in this position works closely with others to establish, coordinate, and be accountable for the priorities of the web team. Duties include developing and maintaining several internal and external websites. Major projects include a complete redesign of both the public and secure portions of www.mosers.org. Minimum qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in web design, computer science, communications, graphic design, or other closely related field; experience with and a strong understanding of content management systems, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript; and five years of experience producing content and designing for the web. Experience with the MS Visual Studio, Google Analytics, ASP.NET or VB.NET, Adobe Creative Suite is preferred, but not required. Compensation is commensurate with education and experience. Qualified candidates can apply online at www.mosers.org, click Careers. Candidates should apply by November 8, 2016. To learn more about MOSERS and the position including our extensive benefit package, visit us online at www.mosers.org. EOE:M/F/V/D.

he candidate for Northwoods Police Chief should be a career professional with at least ive years of street patrol and administrative combined experience. He/ She is required to provide administrative support to the Mayor and City Administrator and guide development of the Police Accreditation process to completion. A minimum of an Associate College Degree is also required. he candidate should be able to plan, direct and supervise daily activities, projects and operation of the Police Dept. Salary and essential detailed duties will be discussed during interviews. his position is full time with beneits. Applications should be picked up at the Northwoods Police Dept. -4800 Oakridge Blvd.-Northwoods, Missouri 63121. Return completed application w/your resume, Attn: Mayor-Rev. Everett R. homas at the address above by 5:00 pm, November 23, 2016.

PASTOR

The Pleasant Valley Missionary Baptist Church of Troy, MO is seeking a Pastor. We are a small congregation with much enthusiasm and great potenial for growth. For more info please call 636-528-8899.

CLIENT SERVICES SUPPORT SPECIALIST

he Alzheimer’s Association, St. Louis Chapter has an opening for a FT 40 hrs/ week Client Services Support Specialist. he position is responsible for clerical and administrative support for our Client Services team. Goals are to signiicantly scale up database efectiveness and internal and external customer service, enabling the Chapter to fulill its mission. Minimum requirements include 3 yrs of demonstrated experience working with database mgmt. Must be proicient with Microsot Oice applications and have excellent communication & organizational skills. Please email cover letter with salary requirements, resume and a min of 2 professional references to stl-hr@alz.org

NOTICE OF ELECTION

Notice is hereby given by the Board of Election Commissioners for the City of St. Louis, State of Missouri, that a General Election will be held at the designated polling place for each precinct in the City of St. Louis, State of Missouri, on Tuesday, November 8, 2016, as certified to this office by the Honorable Jason Kander, Secretary of State of the State of Missouri. The polls will be open between the hours of 6:00 A.M. and 7:00 P.M. for the purpose of electing candidates for federal, state and municipal offices; and voting on whether certain Judges whose term expires December 31, 2016, shall be retained in office for new terms. All voters will also have the opportunity to vote on five proposed State Constitutional Amendments (Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6), and two propositions. The last day the Board of Election Commissioners can accept an application to vote an absentee ballot by mail in the November 8, 2016 General Election is 5:00 P.M. on Wednesday, November 2, 2016. Absentee voting in person will conclude at 5:00 P.M. on Monday, November 7, 2016. The office of the Board of Election Commissioners will be open on Saturday, November 5, 2016 from 9:00 A.M. until 3:00 P.M.

THE OFFICIAL BALLOT WILL BE SUBSTANTIALLY IN THE FOLLOWING FORM:

INSTRUCTIONS TO VOTERS: In today’s election, you have your choice of using either an electronic, touch-screen voting machine or an optical scan voting machine to cast your ballot.

IF YOU USE THE OPTICAL SCAN VOTING MACHINE to cast your ballot, you must completely darken the oval to the left of the name of the candidate of your choice. To vote on judicial retention, if you are in favor of a judge’s retention completely darken the oval to the left of the word “YES.” If you are against a judge’s retention, completely darken the oval to the left of the word “NO.” To vote on an amendment or proposition, if you are in favor of the proposal completely darken the oval to the left of the word “YES.” If you are against the proposal, completely darken the oval to the left of the word “NO.” Do not try to punch through the ballot. Use only the marking device provided to you. If you tear, deface or make a mistake and incorrectly mark your ballot, return it to the Election Judges and obtain a new ballot.

IF YOU USE THE ELECTRONIC, TOUCH-SCREEN VOTING MACHINE, follow the directions on the screen to cast your ballot. For each candidate, touch the box on the screen to the left of the name of the candidate of your choice. To vote on judicial retention, if you are in favor of a judge’s retention touch the box on the screen to the left of the word “YES.” If you are against a judge’s retention, touch the box on the screen to the left of the word “NO.” To vote on an amendment or proposition, if you are in favor of the proposal touch the box on the screen to the left of the word “YES.” If you are against the proposal, touch the box on the screen to the left of the word “NO.” If you need assistance in using this machine, please ask the Election Judges to help you.

OFFICIAL BALLOT GENERAL ELECTION

CITY OF ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS

DEMOCRATIC PARTY REPUBLICAN PARTY LIBERTARIAN PARTY CONSTITUTION PARTY GREEN PARTY INDEPENDENT (DEM) (REP) (LIB) (CST) (GRN) (IND) FOR PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT (A VOTE FOR CANDIDATES FOR PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT IS A VOTE FOR THEIR ELECTORS.) (VOTE FOR ONE PAIR)

HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON/TIMOTHY MICHAEL KAINE DEM

DONALD J. TRUMP/MICHAEL R. PENCE REP

GARY JOHNSON/BILL WELD LIB

DARRELL L. CASTLE/SCOTT N. BRADLEY CST

JILL STEIN/AJAMU BARAKA GRN

WRITE-IN___________________________________________ FOR UNITED STATES SENATOR (VOTE FOR ONE)

JASON KANDER DEM ROY BLUNT REP

JONATHAN DINE

RYMAN

JOHNATHAN McFARLAND

KOSTER

W. SPRAGINS

FITZ

JACOB W. HUMMEL

YOUNG

LOUIS, MISSOURI NOVEMBER 8, 2016 FOR STATE SENATOR DISTRICT 4 (UNEXPIRED TERM) (VOTE FOR ONE)

G. LEWIS

JAMILAH NASHEED

O. (STEVE) SCHAPER

SAXTON

REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 76 (VOTE FOR ONE) JOSHUA PETERS

REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 77 (VOTE FOR ONE)

DONNA M.C. BARINGER

ROBERT J. CRUMP

GINA MITTEN

ANDREW BOLIN

FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 84 (VOTE FOR ONE)

KARLA MAY

FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 91 (VOTE FOR ONE)

SARAH UNSICKER

GREG MUELLER

FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 93 (VOTE FOR ONE)

BOB BURNS

LANDRY SORBEL

WRITE-IN_____________________________ FOR CIRCUIT ATTORNEY (VOTE FOR ONE)

KIMBERLY M. GARDNER

WRITE-IN______________________________

FOR SHERIFF (VOTE FOR ONE)

VERNON BETTS

JOHN N. CASTELLANO, III

WRITE-IN_____________________________

FOR TREASURER (VOTE FOR ONE)

TISHAURA O. JONES DEM

DARREN GRANT REP

JEROME BAUER GRN WRITE-IN_____________________________

OFFICIAL JUDICIAL BALLOT CITY OF ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016

SUBMITTING TO THE VOTERS WHETHER THE JUDGES NAMED BELOW,WHOSE TERMS EXPIRE DECEMBER 31, 2016, SHALL BE RETAINED IN OFFICE FOR NEW TERMS. VOTE ON EACH JUDGE.

MISSOURI SUPREME COURT JUDGE

Shall Judge RICHARD B. TEITELMAN of the Missouri Supreme Court be retained in office? YES NO

MISSOURI COURT OF APPEALS JUDGES, EASTERN DISTRICT

Shall Judge PHILIP M. HESS of the Eastern District Court of Appeals be retained in office? YES NO

Shall Judge JAMES M. DOWD of the Eastern District Court of Appeals be retained in office? YES NO

CIRCUIT COURT JUDGES 22nd JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

Shall Judge BRYAN L. HETTENBACH, Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. 1), be retained in office? YES NO

Shall Judge MARK H. NEILL, Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. 5), be retained in office? YES NO

Shall Judge JAMES EDWARD SULLIVAN, Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. 6), be retained in office? YES NO

Shall Judge PHILIP D. HEAGNEY, Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. l1), be retained in office? YES NO

Shall Judge DENNIS M. SCHAUMANN, Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. 12), be retained in office? YES NO

Shall Judge CHRISTOPHER E. McGRAUGH, Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. 15), be retained in office? YES NO

Shall Judge MICHAEL K. MULLEN, Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. 16), be retained in office? YES NO

Shall Judge DAVID C. MASON, Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. 17), be retained in office? YES NO

Shall Judge THOMAS J. FRAWLEY, Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. 22), be retained in office? YES NO

Shall Judge ROBIN RANSOM VANNOY, Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. 30), be retained in office? YES NO

ASSOCIATE CIRCUIT COURT JUDGES 22ND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

Shall Judge THOMAS C. CLARK, II, Associate Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. 14), be retained in office? YES NO

Shall Judge NICOLE COLBERT-BOTCHWAY, Associate Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. 24), be retained in office? YES NO

Shall Judge CALEA STOVALL-REID, Associate Circuit Judge of

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT NO.

CONSTITUTIONAL

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT NO. 3 Proposed

NOTICE OF ELECTION

THE OFFICIAL BALLOT WILL BE SUBSTANTIALLY IN THE FOLLOWING FORM:

INSTRUCTIONS TO VOTERS: In today’s election, you have your choice of using either an electronic, touch-screen voting machine or an optical scan voting machine to cast your ballot.

OFFICIAL BALLOT GENERAL ELECTION

CITY OF ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016

DONNA M.C. BARINGER

HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON/TIMOTHY MICHAEL KAINE DEM

DONALD J. TRUMP/MICHAEL R. PENCE REP

GARY JOHNSON/BILL WELD LIB

DARRELL L. CASTLE/SCOTT N. BRADLEY CST

JILL STEIN/AJAMU BARAKA GRN

WRITE-IN___________________________________________ FOR UNITED STATES SENATOR (VOTE FOR ONE)

JASON KANDER DEM ROY BLUNT REP

JONATHAN DINE

RYMAN

KOSTER

W. SPRAGINS

FITZ

LOUIS, MISSOURI NOVEMBER 8, 2016 FOR STATE SENATOR DISTRICT 4 (UNEXPIRED TERM) (VOTE FOR ONE)

JACOB W. HUMMEL

YOUNG

G. LEWIS

JAMILAH NASHEED

O. (STEVE) SCHAPER

FOR ONE) JOSHUA PETERS

REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 77 (VOTE FOR ONE)

ROBERT J. CRUMP

STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 83 (VOTE FOR ONE)

GINA MITTEN

ANDREW BOLIN

WRITE-IN_____________________________

STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 84 (VOTE FOR ONE)

KARLA MAY

WRITE-IN_____________________________

STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 91 (VOTE FOR ONE)

SARAH UNSICKER

GREG MUELLER REP WRITE-IN____________________________

FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 93 (VOTE FOR ONE)

BOB BURNS

LANDRY SORBEL REP WRITE-IN_____________________________ FOR CIRCUIT ATTORNEY (VOTE FOR ONE)

KIMBERLY M. GARDNER

WRITE-IN______________________________

FOR SHERIFF (VOTE FOR ONE)

VERNON BETTS

JOHN N. CASTELLANO, III

WRITE-IN_____________________________ FOR TREASURER (VOTE FOR ONE)

TISHAURA O. JONES DEM

DARREN GRANT REP

JEROME BAUER GRN WRITE-IN_____________________________

OFFICIAL JUDICIAL BALLOT CITY OF ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016

SUBMITTING TO THE VOTERS WHETHER THE JUDGES NAMED BELOW,WHOSE TERMS EXPIRE DECEMBER 31, 2016, SHALL BE RETAINED IN OFFICE FOR NEW TERMS. VOTE ON EACH JUDGE.

MISSOURI SUPREME COURT JUDGE

Shall Judge RICHARD B. TEITELMAN of the Missouri Supreme Court be retained in office? YES NO

MISSOURI COURT OF APPEALS JUDGES, EASTERN DISTRICT

Shall Judge PHILIP M. HESS of the Eastern District Court of Appeals be retained in office? YES NO

Shall Judge JAMES M. DOWD of the Eastern District Court of Appeals be retained in office?

YES NO

CIRCUIT COURT JUDGES 22nd JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

Shall Judge BRYAN L. HETTENBACH, Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. 1), be retained in office?

YES NO

Shall Judge MARK H. NEILL, Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. 5), be retained in office?

YES NO

Shall Judge JAMES EDWARD SULLIVAN, Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. 6), be retained in office?

YES NO

Shall Judge PHILIP D. HEAGNEY, Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. l1), be retained in office?

YES NO

Shall Judge DENNIS M. SCHAUMANN, Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. 12), be retained in office? YES NO

Shall Judge CHRISTOPHER E. McGRAUGH, Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. 15), be retained in office?

YES NO

Shall Judge MICHAEL K. MULLEN, Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. 16), be retained in office?

YES NO

Shall Judge DAVID C. MASON, Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. 17), be retained in office?

YES NO

Shall Judge THOMAS J. FRAWLEY, Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. 22), be retained in office?

YES NO

Shall Judge ROBIN RANSOM VANNOY, Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. 30), be retained in office? YES NO

ASSOCIATE CIRCUIT COURT JUDGES

22ND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

Shall Judge THOMAS C. CLARK, II, Associate Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. 14), be retained in office?

YES NO

Shall Judge NICOLE COLBERT-BOTCHWAY, Associate Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. 24), be retained in office? YES NO

Shall Judge CALEA STOVALL-REID, Associate Circuit Judge of Judicial Circuit No. 22 (Division No. 26), be retained in office? YES NO

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT NO. 3

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT NO. 4 Proposed by Initiative

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT NO. 6

METROPOLITAN

BID PROPOSAL

Great Rivers Greenway requests services of qualiied professionals for development consultants on fundraising strategy and searching for a development director. Full RFPs (2) are available at www.greatriversgreenway. org/jobs. Submissions for all opportunities are due electronically by 2pm on Wednesday, November 16, 2016. Great Rivers Greenway reserves the right to reject any or all proposals. EOE

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Looking for a Handy Man for South St. Louis. Call to arrange an interview @ Normandy Library in North County 973-678-1149 (Call ater 6pm EST)

2 Chainz was in the building with longtime associate LooseCannon S.L.I.M. as Phil Assets brought the masses to HG Saturday night for the second of three parties as he held it down for

Swag Snap of the week

The joke of “Love Jones______ (insert urban film of your choice): The Musical.” I really don’t even know where to begin skewering that alleged “Love Jones” stage adaptation I suffered through Saturday. The best way to let y’all in on how we were duped is through a painfully parallel hypothetical situation. Imagine your big granny calls you up and tells you to come through after work because she is throwing down with one of her famously delicious meals just for you. You pass on lunch and suffer through hunger pains all day, knowing it will be worth the wait. After changing into elastic pants, you show up ready to throw down. She welcomes you to the table and says, “It’s so good to see you baby … have a seat. Now just so you know, this soul food meal will have no fried chicken, baked chicken, collard greens, sweet potatoes, macaroni and cheese, dressing, turkey, ham, potato salad, cornbread, sweet potato pie or peach cobbler. When I said “soul food,” I meant “chicken soup for the soul.” As much as you love her, you’ll have to talk yourself out of hiding her blood pressure medicine. That is essentially what happened to all of us who perched in the Fox Theatre expecting to see how “Love Jones” would work as a stage play. We still don’t know. As soon as we got settled in our seats MC Lyte enthusiastically informed us that there wouldn’t be a sip of “Love Jones” in this musical. I thought, “Wait, well, how is this going to work?” It didn’t. They took one of any of the run-of-the-mill urban stage plays that have toured over the years, and just changed the lead characters’ names to Nina and Darius. Seriously, that was it. And I don’t even have the space to get into the performance and production quality aside from the singing. Oh yeah, and most of the celebrity names on the bill swooped on stage for one selection and hit it after the track was over –including Michel’le in a wig she must’ve borrowed from Joanne The Scammer

A ghost town Hollow’s Eve. I hate to continue with my shade campaign it but I had to issue a boo or two to the Halloween nightlife scene this year as well – and not because I was scaring people. I’m used to lit parties bursting at the seams with barely their costumes repurposed from lingerie – especially when Halloween falls so close to the weekend. As for 2016 … not so much. Friday night was almost a complete bust. I thought that I had hit the jackpot at The Marquee because of all of the cars and would enjoy a jam-packed Juelz Santana and Jim Jones Halloween jam. To my disappointment, most of those cars belonged to patrons of the Pepper Lounge getting it in for the annual epic turnup that the general population comes through with every year. I was like, “Maybe I need to scoot on across the street and kick it with the crew with matching Zombie Donald Trump costumes – and clipon tiny hands.”

A toast to Cocktails and Costumes. Saturday was better, but still not what I expected. I have to give it up to Arika Parr and Korey Johnson, who captured the essence of the grown folks getting together to get their Halloween on with their annual Cocktails and Costumes party at Lumiere Live. All of my favorite costumes came from this gathering – and they included Shan Keith as Theo Huxtable in his legendary Dollar Tree Gordon Gartrell blouse and Lula Gladden as a bouquet of flowers (you really had to see it to experience how gloriously glamourous the whole thing was). Honorable mention goes to Tammie Holland and her Greek Goddess getup. Girl, I know that headpiece was more than a notion – but it was so worth it. That “Thriller” flash mob dance was absolutely everything.

Hats off to HSSU homecoming. I have to take a moment to give a shout out to Harris-Stowe State University for their 2016 Homecoming festivities. They are getting closer to being on par with HBCU homecomings around the nation. And keep in mind they are doing it without a football team. Things kicked off last Monday with Rickey Smiley and his morning show crew broadcasting live in the Emerson Performance Center, thanks to Radio One St. Louis. He was really gracious with the students streaming live thanks to Facebook and Snapchat. He accidently went off on one little boy for hijacking another student’s Snapchat, but quickly snapped back into giving the friendly and personable vibe he’s been serving up to fans in recent years. He was spotted all over town too – from the beauty supply shop to Sweetie Pie’s. But this post is about Harris-Stowe, so let me get back to it. They had a nice little mix of festivities that concluded with 2 Chainz in concert. They are steadily building in all areas at Harris-Stowe – even from the kicking it angle.

A taste of 2 Chainz at HG. Speaking of 2 Chainz, he stopped through HG just before they turned the lights on after his set at Harris-Stowe. At first I thought it was Jessie Taylor as 2 Chainz for Halloween, but it was really him. I didn’t trip off of how much they look alike until Saturday. But anyway, it was lit up in there, and I’m not just talking about the vibe of the party. I had to leave my clothes in the garage to air out and Febreeze my car down after being up in there. The folks had a good time for their small dose of Mr. Dab On ‘Em. It was the most packed HG has been in a minute.

Hit and miss at OBar. Saturday night was a good look for the OBar too. They had a nice mix of folks getting ghoulish with it. It was quite cute – especially after HG folks made their way over to get their last taste of Saturday night turnup. I wish I could say the same for the OBar on Sunday night as they hosted “________ (insert urban film of your choice): The Musical “co-star” Raheem DeVaughn for a special Halloween Edition of Play Sundays. It was so empty that you would’ve thought someone said it was haunted up in there. I don’t blame the venue. I think that the folks were so salty about the play that they couldn’t look Raheem in the face.

100 Black Men of Metropolitan St. Louis President Quintinus Henry and member Darius Chapman in the building for their annual black tie Masquerade Ball Saturday night @ The Grand Marriott

Risala and Lazell got lit at the BFree/RockHouse/ MPAC Halloween Party @ the Kitchen Sink Saturday night

Carmen Kelly as Sheneneh Jenkins and Shan Keith as Theo Huxtable were among the best costumes in show at Costumes and Cocktails party Saturday night @ Lumiere Live

Ashley Terry and Tisha Welch got glammed up to support the 100 Black Men @ their annual Masquerade Ball Saturday night @ The Grand Marriott

Teddy Orlando and MO Spoon came together to throw a killer Halloween party Saturday night @ The Kitchen Sink

Leslie and Rhonda came dressed to kill Saturday night @ Lumiere Live

Stylist Colby “Chesse” and her sister Courtney came to slay Saturday night @ The OBar for the Wicked Halloween party

Newly engaged Kamelia Shipp and Mack Bliss Caldwell @ The 100 Black Men Masquerade Ball @ The Grand Marriott

Vernay and Angela got glamourous for the 100 Black Men Black Tie Masquerade Ball Saturday @ The Grand Marriott

Fat-Fat and Juelz Santana set it off in VIP Friday @ The Marquee

Halloween weekend.

Photos by John Scott