November 4th, 2021 edition

St. LouiS AmericAn

Gunfire occurred while speaking to press about gun violence

KC mayor visits St. Louis for two-day tour

By Dana Rieck The St. Louis American

n “My son and I fall asleep to the lullaby of gunshots in the distance every night because I’m the first mayor in over 20 years to be born, raised and still live in North St. Louis.”

—St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones

Someone fired at least four gunshots Friday just blocks away as St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones and Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas spoke about gun violence prevention outside the Cure Violence center in Dutchtown. As the shots rang out, Jones briefly stopped what she was saying, smirked and said, “Oh, well, isn’t that wonderful.”

“Well, I hear gunshots in my neighborhood every night,” she added. “My son and I fall asleep to the lullaby of gunshots in the distance every night because I’m the first mayor in over 20 years

Physician to lead with equity as city’s health director

Dr. Matifadza Hlatshwayo-Davis began work last month

By Dana Rieck

The St. Louis American

Dr. Matifadza Hlatshwayo-Davis began her new role as the city’s health director Oct. 20 and has taken time to listen to people who have been working in the department for years, and in some cases, decades. The infectious disease expert said she committed to a listening tour before starting the job because she didn’t want to start from scratch. So, she’s held meetings with members of her department, leaders of all her bureaus and community leaders across the city. She told The St. Louis American it’s been illuminating, particularly because it’s easy to come into something with preconceived ideas about where to start with a new job.

“From the staff, just understanding …. these are people who are not paid as much as they should be,” Hlatshwayo-Davis said. “These are people who are burnt out and

‘I wanted to help other young people’

By Sophie Hurwitz

service club at the local school where one of her children attended, teaching students to value

City legislators release first redistricting map draft

BOA tasked with cutting wards in half

By Dana Rieck The St. Louis American

City legislators released the first draft of a proposed district map Monday, cutting the 28 wards down to 14. The new map is evenly split between majority white voters and majority Black voters, roughly mirroring the city’s current population, according to the 2020 census.

The St. Louis Board of Aldermen Legislation Committee is in charge of the process and by law, must have a final map drawn and passed by the full board by Dec. 31.

Aldermanic President Lewis Reed told The St. Louis American the aim is to make a balanced map, where half of the 14 wards would be populated by a majority of Black people and other minorities.

He said one of the other main concerns they’ve heard from the public thus far is people don’t want city neighborhoods to be broken up into different

Photo by Bill Greenblatt / St. Louis American St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones addressed gun violence with Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas in St. Louis on Friday, Oct. 29. During the briefing, five gunshots rang out from a nearby house prompting many at the press conference to take cover inside a building. Neither mayor flinched nor left following the gun shots.

Yolanda Curry

Dr. Mati Hlatshwayo Davis is the new Director of the Department of Health.An infectious disease expert, Dr. Hlatshwayo Davis will be the first Black woman Health Director in St. Louis history.

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

obtainable through this month.

Some of the authors in the initial collection are Octavia Butler, Gwendolyn Brooks, Langston Hughes, Audre Lorde, and Ntozake Shange

Duffy will highlight their lesserknown works.

Solange launches rare book finds free community library

Who doesn’t love a good read, especially one that’s a limited find from most books?

Through her creative studio Saint Heron, Solange has launched a free community library to strengthen accessibility to one-of-a-kind and discontinued works by Black and brown authors.

The initiative includes a collection of 50 books U.S. readers can borrow for up to 45 days. It features fiction, nonfiction, poetry, drama, visuals and more. Its target is students, artists, designers, musicians, and literary connoisseurs.

“We hope that by encountering these works, our community is inspired to further explore and study the breadth of artistic expression and the impact of Blackness in creative innovation throughout history,” said a statement from the Saint Heron website.

The library’s collections vary by season, and a guest curator arranges each. Rosa Duffy, founder of For Keeps Books shop is curating the first set of books. The collection will be

“For this Saint Heron Library collection, it was really focusing on the people that we know and love, but we might not know the details of what they do,” Duffy said in an interview with Saint Heron. “So highlighting these artists, I think that’s really important, because then you get to the different mediums and the different spaces that we can move throughout that we might not always be affirmed that we can move through.”

One book per person can be borrowed on a first come, first served basis. Books will be shipped to community members with shipping costs and returns included.

Megan Thee Stallion to become one degree hotter with upcoming bachelor’s degree

Megan Thee Stallion is more than a rap goddess. She’s almost a poised college grad.

She shared the good news to her Instagram followers.

“2021 finna graduate collegeeee - taking my graduation pics today - I can’t wait for y’all to

see,” Meg wrote. Of course, she decorated her cap with her popular catchphrase “Real hot girl s**t.” She had been studying at Texas Southern University and taking classes toward her bachelor’s degree in health administration before fame.

Her degree is an homage to her late mother, Holly Thomas, whom she watched “get up and go to work every single day” with her grandmother. Thomas died of brain cancer in 2019.

“I want my big mama to be proud. She saw me going to school before she passed,” Megan said. “My grandmother that’s still alive used to be a teacher, so she’s on my butt about finishing school. I’m do ing it for me, but I’m also doing it for the women in my family who made me who I am today.”

She plans to open an assistedliving facility in Houston and will use the money she earns from music to fund it.

“If I can use my resources to open doors and create op portunities for at least one student, then it’s a victory,” she said in a statement. “It’s important that we encourage our students to pursue their passions and put them in positions to become the next gamechanger in whichever fields

they choose.”

Jada Pinkett Smith slams sexual relationship difficulties rumors

People on social media often have a habit of misconstruing clips from interviews to be something other than what is being said. That was the case for Jada Pinkett Smith, who recently denied rumors of her and Will Smith having sexual intimacy challenges. On an episode of her “Red Table Talk” show, she told her mother Adrienne Banfield Norris and Gwenyth Paltrow, and it’s difficult to have a physical relationship with her husband.

“The thing Will and I talk about a lot is the journey,” she said. “We started in this at a very young age, you know, 22-yearsold. That’s why the accountability part really hit for me because I think you expect your partner to know [what you need], especially when it comes to sex.” She recommended viewers watch the episode for themselves rather than read inaccurate reports of her sex life. She tweeted: “Only because I got time today. Stop making up headlines. Watch the @RedTableTalk I did with @ GwynethPaltrow for yourselves. Will and I have NEVER had an issue in the bedroom. Thank you.”

Sources: news.yahoo.com, billboard.com, complex.com, insider. com, cnn.com

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Ferguson-Florissant music teacher is state Teacher of the Year

James Young becomes first in district to win award

students and teachers across the state,” he said.

Sophie Hurwitz

The St. Louis American

During the middle of one of James Young’s musical theatre lessons at Johnson-Wabash Sixth Grade Center in Ferguson-Florissant in mid-September, an unexpected group of people burst through his classroom door.

“All of a sudden, my door opens,” Young remembered. In came his district superintendent, and school principal, and last year’s Missouri statewide teacher of the year. They announced that Young had won this year’s prestigious, statewide award — and become the first teacher from Ferguson-Florissant ever to do so.

As the news was announced, Young’s students were thrilled. One, he said, even jumped up to ask him to take a picture together, as if Young were a celebrity.

“I was excited, thrilled, honored,” Young said. “It was surreal.”

And he’s celebrating this victory not only for himself, or for his students, but for his North County home district, too.

“I feel like it’s a real victory for Ferguson-Florissant and North County, and our area,” Young said. “It’s some good news, you know?” He intends to use his platform to advocate for his students, and for his community, where he has been teaching for 14 years. His time as a teacher is also upholding an intergenerational legacy: his grandmother was a teacher in the district, too.

“I get an opportunity to speak, and I’m excited about…advocating for

But first and foremost, Young has school to teach: this year, in a hybrid format. While that’s less overwhelming than last year’s remote school, Young says, it comes with its own set of challenges: some as small yet omnipresent as just reminding kids to keep their masks on.

“I try to remind students ‘keep it over your nose too! Because that’s for you, you don’t want to be breathing stuff in,’” Young said. “So it’s difficult, and it’s easy to be nervous, but you know, we plow through and try to get it done anyway.” This year, students still have the one-to-one Chromebook system the district introduced as a pandemic measure last year, which Young sees making a difference. In his music classes, for example, students can still use Flipgrid - an app similar to TikTok - to present their work, which would not have been possible without the Chromebooks.

Meanwhile, Young has learned a few things from his first year-and-ahalf of COVID teaching.

“One thing we learned over the COVID period is the more you can customize lessons and your projects… to where students have a variety and choice, the better for everyone,” he said. In a hybrid environment, in particular, that customization is crucial, especially since Young’s class is an elective that most students at the sixth grade center rotate through — whether they want to be there or not.

“So kids coming in will be like,

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well, I didn’t choose this,” Young laughed. He responds to those students: “Okay, but we’re glad you’re here!” And he finds ways to engage them, because “fine arts is good for every human being, for all our students. We don’t expect them to become musicians or artists, although they might, but the skill set is still valuable to every student.”

And there are some things tying the whole class together, through custom-

ized lessons and hybrid-school and Chromebooks and Flipgrid. This year’s theme in Young’s class, for example, has students excited. It’s “over and under and by the sea,” he said, meaning “think reggae genre, think Little Mermaid slash Moana slash Bob Marley. We’re still formulating it…it’s going to be a little bit different.”

With his new statewide award, Young hopes to serve as a voice for his students and for his district.

“I want to advocate for our students, to first and foremost let people know that good things are happening here in Ferguson-Florissant, and in public schools everywhere,” he said. “Teachers are working hard, students are working hard, parents are doing their best, but things are challenging. Everywhere you look, people are challenged, and so I hope to be a part of the solution.”

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

James Young, sixth-grade musical theatre teacher at Johnson-Wabash Sixth Grade Center in the Ferguson-Florissant School District, has been named Missouri Teacher of the Year. Young, a graduate of the UMSL College of Education, was honored as the district’s Teacher of the Year in July.

Black America and the myth of Sisyphus

By Michael W. Jones

It’s a moral imperative that all Black children learn to read, not just be functionally literate, but learn to become active, critical readers capable of comprehension of how new ideas and facts change your understanding of what you know or what you thought you knew.

The reason it’s a moral imperative is because it’s the only way they can ever come to know their ancestors; not their personal family history, the story of their immediate family, but come to know and understand who they are as part of the African Diaspora.

How do we connect this present generation to the ancestors? We do what we’ve always done, we tell them our stories. An African tribal storyteller is called a griot, but they are more than just storytellers, they are praise singers, poets, and musicians. In places where written history wasn’t available to everyone, through the oral tradition, they preserved the genealogies, history, and traditions of the tribe, they were the tribe’s cultural historical guardians. Because of their historical knowledge and perspective, they were also often political advisors.

Your life, my life, our collective lives, this moment in time, the universe. It’s what philosophers call an existential question. An existential question is a question relating to existence, kind of the ultimate philosophical question.

At moments like this I find myself drawn back to a writer and an essay I was introduced to as a college student over 50 years ago. The writer is Albert Camus, the essay is the Myth of Sisyphus. What does Camus’s interpretation of the Myth of Sisyphus have to do with the Black the condition in America?

Let’s start with Camus’s notion of the absurd. The dictionary defines absurd as something so extremely unreasonable and so foolish that you shouldn’t take it seriously, something ridiculously irrational.

Camus uses the Greek legend of Sisyphus, who is condemned by the gods for eternity to repeatedly roll a boulder up a hill only to have it roll down again once he got it to the top, as a metaphor for the individual’s persistent struggle against the essential absurdity of life.

Black America supports Biden’s key bills

By Benjamin F. Chavis Jr.

How we tell our story to our children in 2021, the way we always have, the griots tell our story. We are still an intuitively oral people, but modern technology has allowed us to expand our storytelling. The modern griots include Frederick Douglass, W.E.B. DuBois, Zora Neal Hurston, Langston Hughes, James Baldwin, Toni Morrison, Walter Mosley, Nicole Hannah-Jones and the 1619 Project. It’s also poets, playwrights, and musicians; Maya Angelou, Amanda Gorman, Amiri Baraka, August Wilson, Nikki Genovese, Howling Wolf, Muddy Waters, Curtis Mayfield, Stevie Wonder, Tupac, and Biggie. Once our children know whose they are, they will discover who they are.

n Black Americans have been pushing the boulder of acceptance up the hill of approval since we arrived on the shores, only to watch it roll back down.

But it’s not the push up the hill that interests Camus, it’s Sisyphus’s trip back down that gets his attention. On the trip down, Sisyphus is free from his labor, Camus calls this his hour of consciousness, and it’s in this moment he can reflect on and understand the absurdity of his fate, and with that understanding free himself from the need to make sense of his situation.

The Myth of Sisyphus is the perfect metaphor for the Black experience in America. Black Americans have been pushing the boulder of acceptance up the hill of approval since we arrived on the shores, only to watch it roll back down. But we must once again learn to embrace the trip back down, those spaces we have created that belong exclusively to us, where the griots remind us of who we really are, as they reconnect us to the ancestors.

For 194 years the Black Press of America has consistently “pleaded our own cause” for freedom, justice, equality, and empowerment. Today we continue to plead that all elected officials do all that is politically possible to act and to ensure progress that significantly improves the quality of life for our families, communities, and businesses. Now is the time for the Congress of the United States to act and to vote to pass President Joe Biden’s bold and consequential legislations: Build Back Better Framework and Infrastructure bills.

This is not about being a conservative, liberal, progressive or someone who is indecisive in the middle of today’s political spectrum. These two historic bills are about moving the nation forward. Time is out for bickering and further debate. The time to enact is now.

Decades ago, when The Honorable Congressman Adam Clayton Powell (D, New York) would repeatedly say, “Keep the faith, baby,” it was a call to action for Black America and for the U.S. Congress. Here are the pertinent racial equity facts concerning Biden’s legislative agenda that must be voted on

now without delay:

President Biden believes we must invest in our country and communities of color by creating good jobs, lowering costs that hold back families, and building an economy where not just the wealthy get ahead.

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal will create good-paying, union jobs by fixing our roads and bridges, replacing lead pipes, installing electric vehicle charging stations, and more.

The Build Back Better Agenda invests in our people and gives working people in this country a fair shot to build a decent middle-class life, succeed, and thrive – instead of

n Now is the time for the Congress of the United States to act and to vote to pass President Joe Biden’s bold and consequential legislations: Build Back Better Framework and Infrastructure bills.

trying to get by.

There would be the largest federal investment in public transit in history to modernize transit.

The plan makes health care costs and premiums more affordable by extending the American Rescue Plan’s (ARP) cost savings, closing the Medicaid gap for low-income Americans, letting Medicare negotiate drug prices to lower prescription drug costs,

and helping seniors access critical health care services like dental, vision, and hearing care.

Extending the ARP’s cost savings would help 360,000 Black people and 730,000 Latinos save an average of $50 per person per month and allow 328,000 uninsured Black people and 580,000 uninsured Latinos to gain coverage.

The plan also adds dental, vision, and hearing coverage for the more than 5.8 million Black people and 5 million Hispanic people on Medicare and closes the Medicaid gap for low-income Americans. Caring for your family would be more affordable by extending the Child Tax Credit; making childcare and elder care more affordable; helping people, especially women, get back into the workforce; and making sure every 3- and 4-year-old in America can go to preschool. The President is working to get both pieces of legislation across the finish line, and the American people are demanding exactly the kind of investment that President Biden and Democrats are proposing. These are investments that will create jobs, lower taxes, and make life more affordable for working families.

Keeping the faith is not about patience or procrastination. It is about the courage to act, vote, and to enact legislation in real time. That time is now. Congress finally must now vote to approve Biden’s Build Back Better and Infrastructure bills. The future of our communities and the future of the nation are at stake. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. is president and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA).

I’ve been reflecting on the beginning of the collapse of American society as we’ve known it, and white America’s inability to deal with the moral reckoning of its inherent contradictions, and how the Herculean and heroic political effort of Black people will once again go unrewarded.

We regularly ask, what does this mean?

Once we quit trying to make sense of America, America makes sense. Which is why Camus writes at the end, “we can imagine Sisyphus happy.”

Michael W. Jones is a columnist and member of the St. Louis American editorial board.

A down payment on the American Dream

By Marc H. Morial

For decades, American families have struggled to achieve the American dream of economic prosperity, homeownership, and financial freedom due to years of neglect and failure of investment from Congress and the Trump administration. The United States ranked 22nd in U.S. News & World Report’s 2021 “Best Countries for Raising Kids” rankings, and 34th of 35 in Asher & Lyric’s “Raising a Family Index.” Among 31 countries rated by UNICEF for family-friendly policies, the United States fell at the very bottom. The World Economic Forum’s Global Social Mobility Report ranked the United States 27th. We have the worst income inequality among the G7 nations. The Social Progress Index, which measures the extent to which countries provide for the social and environmental needs of their citizens, ranks the United States 27th.

By almost every conceivable metric, the United States has fallen behind. President Biden recently

reassured the American people that their dreams have not been forgotten.

“We need to build America from the bottom up and the middle out, not from top down with the trickle-down economics that’s always failed us. I can’t think of a single time when the middle class has done well but the wealthy haven’t done very well. I can think of many times, including now, when the wealthy and the super-wealthy do very well, and the middle class don’t do well,” Biden said on Oct. 28. “These are not about left versus right, or moderate versus progressive, or anything else that pits Americans against one another. This is about competitiveness versus complacency.

It’s about expanding opportunity, not opportunity denied. It’s about leading the world or letting the world pass us by.

While the framework for the Build Back Better Agenda and Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill President Biden recently announced does not include all of the National Urban League’s priorities, it is a substantial down payment on a historic investment in a prosperous future. The framework is heavily based on the Main Street Marshall Plan, the National Urban League’s comprehensive plan to lift urban communities out of poverty and stimulate their economic growth. It will facilitate the creation of millions of family-sustaining jobs, enable more Americans to join and remain in the workforce, and expand the American economy to allow equal opportunity for growth.

The Build Back Better Agenda and Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill is an investment in a nation that is inclusive, equitable, and most of all, attainable. It is time for the House and Senate to pass it and send to the President’s desk so we can put the American people first.

Marc H. Morial is president and CEO of the National Urban League.

Letters to the editor

End the war on voting rights

Voting sustains our Democracy, but systematically, our right to vote is being crushed. Baseless allegations of fraud (if my candidate doesn’t win, the election must be rigged.); politicization of the courts; growing misinformation; rampant voter suppression bills; districts drawn so that only one party can win; baseless audits, costing taxpayers thousands of dollars; bills to make it more difficult to initiate petitions; and the elimination of polling places make voting increasingly difficult. Worse still, multiple legislatures are implementing laws that give them the power to change the count if they don’t like the result.

To counter these obstructive tactics, pressure your Congressmen to pass The Freedom to Vote Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Act. Encourage your friends, family, and neighbors to register and vote. Protect your vote by exercising it. Our Democracy requires it. Please register. Please verify your registration. Please vote.

Greg Meyer Metro St. Louis Advocacy Committee

Guest Columnist

Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr.

Columnist

Mike Jones

Columnist Marc H. Morial

celebrated a Harris-Stowe-PBS, partnership in sup-

Center.

Nine PBS tunes in with Harris-Stowe with educational impact

The goal is to increase youth literacy

St. Louis American staff

Nine PBS is partnering with Harris-Stowe State University to support its Community Impact Network Education Center. The Center recently opened the Nine PBS Early Learning Nook to encourage literacy for pre-K through third grade. Nine PBS donated PBS KIDS playtime pads, furniture, and toys that encourage imagination and learning through play.

“We have designated an area on our lower level for this resource,” Harris-Stowe Impact Education Center Executive Director Aline Phillips said. “We plan to use this space to encourage families and early childhood centers to bring young learners for storytelling, academic engagement, and literacy opportunities.”

The partnership is a part of the Nine PBS Raymond Wittcoff Community Engagement Fellowship, creating partnerships and

connecting community organizations and institutions to Nine PBS’s free educational resources.

“This partnership is more than just a shared space,” said Gina Watkins, a Wittcoff Community engagement fellow. “It is the hope that we can make a difference in the lives of the families of this community and do our part in changing the narrative. We understand that children with a solid foundation in pre-reading and social-emotional self-regulation skills would be on a path to college readiness. As young adults, parents, and grandparents benefit from the services offered by the center, it would be child friendly, a space for early learners to engage in learning activities.”

The Harris-Stowe State University Impact Education Center provides Early College Programs, Dual Enrollment, Continuing Education, HiSet Testing (an alternative to getting a high school degree similar to other high school equivalency tests, like the GED) and job training opportunities for students and families residing in the Normandy Collaborative School District and parts of North St. Louis County.

Fair redistricting gives more voters a voice

By Joan Hubbard

The League of Women Voters of Metro St. Louis is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization working to protect and empower voters.

I serve as chairman of its Voter Access Committee. We focus on educating the community on the state laws and procedures for voting and how voters can best take advantage of their right to vote. We also advocate for structural changes such as early voting, no-excuse absentee voting, same-day registration.

The legal structure for voting and the opportunity to select an official of choice provides the greatest opportunity for citizens to participate in our representative government. This means that the redrawing of maps in the redistricting process is of the utmost importance in creating a fair and equitable system for all voters.

As I told Missouri’s House and Senate redistricting commissioners at recent hearings in St. Louis, we believe the focus in drawing new district boundaries should be on keeping communities of interest together. It is important all communities in our state have a voice and a chance to have representation in our government. This enables voters to choose legislators that best reflect their values.

Furthermore, fair district maps encourage legislators to put the concerns of the people they represent above donors and special interests. There should be more competitive elections that hold lawmakers accountable and give voters a stronger voice in our government. Citizens should select who represents them; politicians shouldn’t select their voters.

For decades, the nonpartisan League of Women Voters of Missouri has fought for fair and effective representation. Fair maps give citizens a voice in their government at all levels.

The League also promotes a transparent and accountable process for redistricting the city of St. Louis. We’re watching as the Board of Aldermen works to cut the number of wards and re-align ward boundaries. We believe these boundaries should be based on neighborhood and common interests, not political clout.

We also support Prop R for Reform that will appear on the ballot on April 5, 2022. Prop R calls for an independent redistricting commission to take the task of drawing ward boundaries away from politicians. This citizen commission would use map-making tools and hold public hearings in a transparent process focused on drawing new maps based on the people’s best interest.

When maps are drawn, we ask it to be done transparently, allowing ample time for experts to analyze them and time for the public to respond. These maps will influence our government for the next decade, so they must be drawn fairly to best represent and empower all Missourians equally. We believe that this type of process will encourage more citizens to vote.

Joan Hubbard is chair of the League of Women Voters of Missouri Voter Access Committee.

Joan Hubbard

Dr. Aline Phillips, Harris-Stowe State University Impact Education Center executive director, Gina Watkins, Nine PBS Wittcoff Community Engagement fellow; LaTonia Collins Smith, Harris-Stowe interim president, and Alex Stallings, Nine PBS director of early learning recently

port of the school’s Community Impact Network Education

Photo courtesy of Harris-Stowe State University

to be born, raised and still live in North St. Louis.”

She told members of the media while hearing the gunshots was unfortunate, she didn’t flinch because hearing shots is a part of her life. Her description of the “lullaby of gunshots” is one heard in talking points throughout her campaign to become mayor.

“It’s unfortunate,” she said.

The incident attracted national media attention, with stories appearing in The Washington Post, CNN, New York Post and others.

Jones and Lucas were at the center Friday to meet with about 10 community members to discuss gun violence and prevention efforts in St. Louis.

The St. Louis Police Department released updated homicide numbers through Monday, which totaled 163. The city has experienced a drastic reduction in homicide numbers compared to last year, which at this time were at 263.

Redistricting

Continued from A1

wards, keeping them intact as much as possible, unlike they are now. His office noted the majority of the city-designated neighborhoods are all in one district in this proposed map.

“The first draft isn’t meant to be a plan that we would adopt as a final plan, at all whatsoever, because there are legal obligations that we have to meet along the way, and that draft plan is essentially a working document,” Reed said. He added they would take in the public’s additional feedback and rework the map based on those recommendation and concerns.

According to his office, each district has approximately 21,500 people in this drafted map. Most of the districts com-

Last year’s homicide rate was 30% higher than any of the past 50 years in the city — a trend that echoed throughout cities nationwide.

SLMPD Major Ryan Cousins told KMOV on Monday the homicide rate in St. Louis is 25 percent lower than at the same time the year before.

“We’re going to continue doing what we’ve done the whole summer, crime usually goes down in the winter months, but we’re not going to rest on that, we’re going to continue with proactive patrols hopefully we can get it under 200,” he said.

St. Louis reported 194 homicides in 2019, 187 in 2018, and 205 in 2017.

The roundtable was a chance for Lucas and Jones to hear from advocates and activists working in the city. They shared their experiences and perspectives on the prevalence of gun violence in the region.

Cheeraz Gorman founded Sibling Support Network, an organization dedicated to the needs of people who have lost blood-related or fictive kin sib-

bine existing wards, meaning next year, those aldermen who want to run for reelection in those areas may have to face off against each other for a seat on the much smaller board. Reed said while it’s hard to say what will happen next in the election, essentially, each alderperson will have at least one challenger because of the ward reduction.

So, in the northern part of the city, he said, alderpeople Sharon Tyus, Dwinderlin Evans, and John CollinsMuhammad would run in the same election under this proposed map. Following his logic, Aldermen Bret Narayan and Joe Vaccaro would also run against each other down south and back up north alderpeople Lisa Middlebrook, Brandon Bosley and James Page would also end up in the same election under the proposed map.

lings to violent crime after her younger brother was killed in August 2013.

She said one of the most important things the community needs to do is hold space for people experiencing the pain of losing a loved one and be careful in how individuals choose to distance themselves from the pain and harm of the violence.

“At times, we get so punitive about this notion of violence, and we also get dismissive because in language, what do we say? ‘That was senseless,’” Gorman said. “Not

“So, you will have areas where virtually every alderman will have an opponent, somewhere along the line in this thing,” he said. “This process where we’re reducing the number of wards and representatives in half, nobody’s going to be happy.”

He said those alderpeople who have a harder time compromising will also have a more difficult time with the redistricting process.

“But I can tell you what, the aldermen thus far, they’ve been tremendous in terms of coming to the table with a good, useful information,” Reed said. “Working collectively to come up with this draft map, right? If it continues like this, it’s going to be a smoother process than one might expect, but I’ve just been so happy with the fact that these folks really have been working collectively and

recognizing that behind every decision that someone makes to be violent, that was valid to them. However, when we choose to say ‘something is senseless,’ we as a community, we tap out.”

Others discussed the importance of simply being there, on the streets, interacting, and building solid relationships with those most likely to turn to violence.

“It’s a thing, you’ve got to have a heart,” Brother El with Cure Violence said. “We’ve seen so many times where

collaboratively to come up with ideas and honest recommendations.”

The map is available for the public to view and submit comments at www.stlouis-mo. gov/aldermen/redistricting Residents can also submit comments and questions by phone at 314-622-4114, email at redistricting@stlouis-mo. gov, or mailing them to the Board of Aldermen at 1200 Market St., Room 232 St. Louis, MO 63103 with “Attn: Redistricting.”

The committee’s next redistricting meeting will be held virtually at 11 a.m. Thursday.

City voters passed the ward reduction in a 2012 election, which stipulated the new 14 wards would be redrawn after the 2020 census. It laid out a plan for the first election in the newly drawn wards to be held in 2023 for all wards and the aldermanic president.

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas and St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones spoke with students and staff at the Flance Early Childhood Center during a tour on Thursday, Oct. 29, 2021. Both mayors have stated that preschool opportunities and educational success in kindergarten and elementary school will help stem gun violence in urban areas.

whatever authority swoops in, and we get the fingers pointed, people get the shackles put on them, and then they are gone. But we never get to the root of why it happened.”

He pointed to what many believe are the root causes of crime: lack of education, food, jobs and housing.

Lucas, who has been mayor of Kansas City, Missouri, since August 2019, was in the city Thursday and Friday for a visit with Jones. The two have publicly shown their support for one another in their respective

Odd-numbered wards would start with two-year terms to align with the city’s charter’s election schedule from 1915.

The Board president and even-numbered wards would run during that initial election for a full four-year term.

This ward reduction comes as census data supported what St. Louisans have known for a long time: the city’s population is in decline — with a population totaling 301,578 residents in 2020, down from 319,294 in 2010 and 348,189 in 2000.

The redistricting process occurs every 10 years following the release of new census data. Currently, the board’s legislation committee is charged with creating the new map, which will then be outlined in Board Bill 101, sponsored by Reed and Alderman Joe Vollmer, Ward 10.

campaigns. He noted it was powerful to ride along the night prior with the social workers who are now responding with police officers to some calls in the city. He said he believes St. Louis is too hard on itself when it comes to its issues with crime — citing the notable homicide reduction seen this year compared to last.

“The conversion we had, it just underscores the urgency of the need, as well as it underscores that it’s going to take us all of us — the burden of curing gun violence cannot fall solely on our government or our police officers, it’s going to take all of us working together and then making sure that we are addressing the root cause,” Jones said in her concluding remarks at the roundtable.

Others who participated in the roundtable included Kateri Chapman-Kramer, with Life Outside of Violence; Valerie Dent, with STL Mothers in Charge; Alderman Shane Cohn, Ward 25; Dr. Dan Isom, acting public safety director; and Joseph Yancey, with Places for People.

St. Louis city legislators released this first draft of a proposed district map Monday, cutting the 28 wards down to 14.

Photo by Wiley Price/ St. Louis American

service to others.

“I figured if I could get some young people involved in helping other people and perhaps not being so self-focused and self-absorbed, that might, you know, kind of change some perspectives,” she said. Curry ran the community service club for about nine years. Then, she said, the principal there suggested she would make a great school counselor. This solidified Curry’s path. She took a job as a paraprofessional educator, then completed her master’s degree to become a counselor. She had found her way of helping young people the way she dreamed.

Curry, who will be honored during the virtual Salute to Excellence in Education at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 5, started her current position as a counselor for St. Charles West High School in 2019, just before COVID-19 hit.

Now, in the third school year impacted by the pandemic, students need the mental and emotional support services school counselors provide more than ever. She said some students who attended school virtually last year are re-learning how to be in school in person. Others have developed anxiety and depression, she said, that was not present before COVID-19 or have seen their pre-existing problems at home magnified by the stress of these times.

One of Curry’s strategies is what she calls a “one-minute check-in.” She pulls a student aside and asks them a few questions to see how they’re doing.

“That has been helpful because there have been some kids that I never would have guessed are dealing with certain issues, like anxiety or maybe bullying,” Curry said. At St. Charles West, Curry also supervises the Multicultural Achievement Council, a group dedicated to promoting college readiness in students of color. The

Physician

Continued from A1 there’s unfortunately a lot of understaffing in a lot of my department. So that has to be my primary concern and where I start, making sure that folks in the health department feel valued, that we do what we can to support them and that I build as much capacity as I can for the work.”

Of course, she added, it’s a challenge because like any city department, she’s working under the constraints of a budget.

Prior to this role, Hlatshwayo-Davis focused a large part of her career on addressing health disparities among marginalized communities and battling the HIV epidemic. She said she will use this experience to focus on two main points regarding the COVID-19 pandemic and

vaccine rollout for children — which, she anticipates, will be soon: education and access.

The doctor noted with the pandemic going on for almost two years now, she must now also prioritize other aspects public health people are struggling with.

“And my primary focus across all of those priorities, whether it’s with my staff, with COVID, and with other health care conditions, is equity,” she said. “Making sure that I lead with equity, that I center equity, and that I do everything with a lens for equity.”

For her, that means using data to inform policy and seek health equity and justice.

“And it’s been very clear: We have zip code level data that shows that folks in the north part of our city, as well as certain parts of south city, are disproportionately impacted, meaning that there are a higher number of cases, higher hospitalizations and more

Multicultural Achievement Council runs the ACT-prep program and gives students opportunities to meet with professionals of color.

Curry said they just completed a four-week “College Admissions 101” series, where they supplied students of color with specific tools for college. In teaching students what

Curry and Head Counselor, Stephanie Moran of St. Charles West High School talk about testing options for students on Nov. 1. Curry will be honored as the SEMO Counselor of the year at the 2021 Salute to Excellence in Education at a virtual event on Friday, Nov. 5.

they can expect from the college admissions process and from the collegiate environment itself, Curry said she is empowering students to access the tools they need to apply for and attend college. She said throughout all her counseling work so far, she has learned that relationship-building is critical.

n “I really believe that I bring a lot to the table by way of being able to relate to the folks, but also bringing to them the highest level of expertise during this much-needed time.”

– Dr. Matifadza Hlatshwayo-Davis

deaths from COVID-19 than in other places. So, I have to start there,” she said.

She said the same data has identified who those people are, including the elderly, the uninsured and Black and brown folks. Hlatshwayo-Davis said this is crucial knowledge because without data to inform policy, the city cannot work to correct inequity in a culturally competent way.

The new health director noted the extra federal pandemic funding, which includes $8 million in public health infrastructure for the city, will help her achieve this goal. Right

now, she said she’s in the middle of understanding the department’s budget line-by-line to evaluate and decide exactly how the money should be spent to get information and resources directly to residents.

In her campaign earlier this year, St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones said gun violence must be declared a public health issue and dealt with as such. Hlatshwayo-Davis agrees, saying it is one of the main issues she’ll be addressing in the budget and throughout the department.

She said she’s worked in clinic settings and has seen

“Just taking a few minutes, you know, to get to know students and just let them know that you care about them that you’re there for them really does open them up to being able to receive from you later,” Curry said. “The relationship piece is really important.”

The 34th Annual Salute to Excellence in Education Scholarship & Awards Virtual Gala will be celebrated online as a free virtual event on Friday, Nov. 5, 2021, on stlamerican.com, the St. Louis American’s Facebook page and YouTube channel. For additional details on how to participate, please visit givebutter. com/2021EducationSalute.

firsthand gun violence’s impact on physical and mental health within primarily minority communities. As an infectious disease specialist, HlatshwayoDavis said she is drawing on the expertise of people in the region, such as Dr. L.J. Punch who has dedicated their life to this cause.

“[It’s important] to collaborate with folks like them, to make sure that we are operating from a lens of trauma-informed care,” the health director said. “Past that, it will rely on collaborations, open lines of communication and partnering with other departments that oversee the public’s safety and our police departments in order to make sure that all of the initiatives that are coming out of city government lead with a trauma-informed lens.”

Hlatshwayo-Davis said she is proud to be the second Black woman to become the city’s health director and the first Black female physician to do

so. She follows Melba Moore who served as acting health director from 2015 to 2018. Moore was appointed by former St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay and is a certified public health administrator.

“I believe my intersectionality is unique, right? I’m a Black woman and an immigrant and so I’m able to relate to many, many sectors of the population,” she said. “I’m a mother. … So, I relate to parents as they make these excruciating decisions and are desperate to protect their kids at a time when there hasn’t been that much by way of resources. And I believe that coupled with my infectious diseases background [and] my public health expertise, I really believe that I bring a lot to the table by way of being able to relate to the folks, but also bringing to them the highest level of expertise during this much-needed time.”

Photo by Jennifer Sarti / St. Louis American

Yolanda

The Ascension Charity Classic provided $200,000 for each of the tournament’s primary beneficiaries: Marygrove, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis, and Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis.

Ascension Charity Classic generates more than $800,000

Special to The American Tournament Officials announced, during a special event at Norwood Hills Country Club honoring their charity partners, that the recent inaugural playing of the Ascension Charity Classic presented by Emerson raised more than $800,000 for charitable organizations in North St. Louis County and beyond. The total includes $200,000 for each of the tournament’s primary beneficiaries, Marygrove, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis (BGCSTL), and Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis (ULMSTL).

Additionally, First Tee of Greater St. Louis and PGA REACH Gateway, the two benefiting charities of the tournament’s Legends Charity Challenge presented by World Wide Technology, were recognized during the ceremony. Each was presented with a donation in the amount of $30,000 as a result of an exhibition match held on Saturday, Sept. 11, featuring Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, Ozzie Smith, Craig Berube, and special guest Hale Irwin.

“The goal of the tournament from day one has always been about economic growth and charitable investment in North St. Louis County, and, to become one of the most charitable tournaments on the PGA TOUR Champions,” said Nick

Ragone, executive vice president and chief marketing and communications officer, with Ascension. “We are thrilled but not surprised at how St. Louis fans and the corporate community again showed the rest of the nation why our region is so unique and so special.”

Along with providing substantial philanthropic benefits to the region, the 2021 tournament also set attendance marks for first-year tournaments on PGA TOUR Champions and has established itself as a premier event on the senior circuit.

“This felt like a PGA TOUR event coming down the stretch on Sunday with the fan attendance and hospitality buildout,” said inaugural Champion David Toms. “I’m thrilled to be the first champion of the event, and even more inspired to know that the real winners of the tournament are its charities and the St. Louis community.”

“Ascension put community and philanthropy on center stage,” said Joe Bestgen, chief executive officer of Marygrove. “Marygrove, North County, and the entire St. Louis Metropolitan area owes a huge debt of gratitude to Ascension for leading the way in partnership with Emerson and World Wide Technology to host a premier event that really showcases the best of our region and will benefit so many in our community, now and for years to come.”

“The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis is grateful to Ascension Health for its generosity and passion for the children we are privileged to serve,” said Flint Fowler, president of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis.

“The Ascension Charity Classic presented by Emerson raised awareness about the impact our organization has on the lives of children and teens. The tournament’s gift represents hope and opportunity, particularly for those who need us most.”

“The Urban League is extremely grateful to the Ascension team and all of the sponsors and supporters of the Ascension Charity Classic by Emerson,” said Michael P. McMillan, President & Chief Executive Officer of the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis. “The demand for our services tripled during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and the residual impact on our most vulnerable communities continues to be significant. This gift means we will be able to continue meeting the needs of those who are most fragile and assist with their recovery. This is true corporate social responsibility in action, and we cannot be more appreciative.”

The 2022 Ascension Charity Classic presented by Emerson will be held the week of September 5 – 11, at Norwood Hills Country Club.

Missouri Sports Hall of Fame announces 2021 class

Includes Mike Claiborne and William Greenblatt

By K. Michael Jones

St. Louis American

The

Some of the most notable sports figures ever to walk across St. Louis’ sports pages will soon be honored by the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame, which will honor 13 individuals and five high school programs/teams.

It’s all part of the Hall of Fame’s Enshrinement presented by Great Southern Bank, set for Sunday, November 14 at the Chase Park Plaza in St. Louis. A noon reception will precede the ceremony, which will commence at 1 p.m. The Hannibal Regional Foundation also will be honored with the Founder’s Award.

CEO & Executive Director Jerald Andrews announced the Class of 2021 during a press conference Wednesday at Chase Park Plaza. The event will mark the Hall of Fame’s 11th Enshrinement away from Springfield for the non-profit, now in its 27th year. It also will be the third Enshrinement in the area, as the Hall of Fame held ceremonies in 2014 in St. Charles and 2018 in St. Louis.

The Class of 2021 is as follows: Larry Hughes, Andy Van Slyke, Charlie Brown, Steve Savard, Jack R. Watkins, Jr., John Vianney High School Boys Soccer Program, Frank Viverito, Barbara Berkmeyer, Mike Russell, MICDS Football Program, Mike Claiborne, Lafayette Wildwood High

School Girls Swimming & Diving Program, Jim Bidewell, William Greenblatt, Lindbergh High School Boys Cross Country Teams 1972-1979, Sandi Gildehaus, and the Francis Borgia High School Cheerleading Program.

Mike Claiborne –Sports Broadcasting

Mike Claiborne

Claiborne reached a milestone in 2021, as it marked his 40th year in sports broadcasting in St. Louis. He began at KMOX in February of 1981 co-hosting “Sports Open Line.” His various duties in St. Louis have consisted of being an analyst, providing play-by-play, a studio analyst and sideline reporter for Saint Louis University basketball, Missouri-St. Louis basketball, St. Louis Blues hockey, St. Louis Rams, Fox Sports Midwest and the St. Louis Cardinals. This year is his 15th as a part of the St. Louis Cardinals radio broadcast team with Mike Shannon, John Rooney and Ricky Horton. Overall, Claiborne has covered the Cardinals in seven World Series (1982, 1985, 1987, 2004, 2006, 2011, 2013). From 19911996, he was program director

of what’s now KFNS and has been a sports columnist for The St. Louis American newspaper.

William Greenblatt

William Greenblatt –Sports Photographer Greenblatt’s career as a sports photographer spans 49 years, mostly in St. Louis. His work has captured the history of the St. Louis Cardinals, St. Louis Football Cardinals, St. Louis Blues, St. Louis Rams, soccer’s St. Louis Steamers, Spirits of St. Louis and the University of Missouri. He has worked for United Press International for decades and also has been the official photographer of the St. Louis Fire Department, the St. Louis Sports Hall of Fame and politicians on both sides of the aisle. Greenblatt’s work has appeared in newspapers (including The St. Louis American) and magazines across the country, including with a Sports Illustrated cover photo of University of Missouri football player Michael Sam. He is a member of the St. Louis Sports Hall of Fame and recipient of the Jim Otis Award from the Lombardo Chapter of the National Football Hall of Fame.

Local firms step up to hire justice involved people seeking jobs

By Jeff Smith

ST. LOUIS – “I’ve stumbled

a little bit but when I get out, I will join AA, find a sponsor, and continue to stay sober, because I know that’s what I need to do – both for me and for my next employer,” said a young man named Dominic, who is currently incarcerated but set to be released later this fall.

“I’ve always been a hard worker, and nothing can change that.”

Dominic recently filmed a three-minute video for the St. Louis University-housed Transformative Workforce Academy, a nonprofit agency whose mission is to connect justice-involved individuals with steady employment and train employers on best practices to increase job retention. On Oct. 19, over 50 employers gathered on Zoom for a virtual Second Chance Job Fair hosted by TWA and presented by Centene Charitable Foundation.

TWA piloted the concept of a virtual job fair last year. To overcome barriers related to digital access, jobseekers worked with community agencies and nearly 100 volunteer job coaches to prerecord brief video presentations sharing their skills, work experience, and challenges they have overcome. These videos were screened for prospective employers, with additional information on supporting justice-involved employees

presented between videos. Afterwards, employers are connected to the candidates they would like to interview.

“This fair is a great opportunity for those who made mistakes but have turned the page and are ready to provide for their families,” said Lisa Cohn, TWA’s Program Manager, and chief fair organizer.

“That said, we aren’t asking employers to hire out of pity. Justice-involved jobseekers have talent, loyalty, and a work ethic that will benefit businesses and our region as a whole.”

This year, TWA has expanded to do something unprecedented in the St. Louis region, and as far as Cohn knows, anywhere else: it is enabling incarcerated jobseekers like Dominic to begin the interview process before release, to minimize the amount of time between release and a job start date, which research shows will reduce the likelihood of recidivism.

Scott Anders, interim director of the St. Louis County justice center, lauded the pilot program inside the jail. “I’m thrilled to bring this employment program into our facility,” he said. “It is just one component of our broader

County Reapportionment Commission takes shape

Judge rules with Bell for

Faulkner’s removal

Sophie Hurwitz

The St. Louis American

After they were informed that the St. Louis County charter prohibits members of the St. Louis County Reapportionment Commission — the bipartisan appointed body tasked with redistricting in the county — from holding other public office, two members of the commission have agreed to step down. St. Louis County Executive Sam Page announced their two replacements on Monday: John Kelly, a Republican from St. Ann (Dist. 2), and Karen Cloyd, a Democrat from Wildwood (Dist. 7). There is still one vacancy on the 14-member council, in which seven seats are reserved for Democrats and seven for Republicans. The deadline to apply for appointment to that seat is Friday, Nov. 5. The commission is charged with redrawing the seven County Council district boundaries as based on census numbers, which came out this year. According to the county charter, “the commission shall reapportion the council districts so that there is an equal number of residents in each district.” They have one month to complete this task: their deadline, as set by the County, is Dec. 2. For the weeks prior to this announcement, it was unclear whether one former commissioner was planning on resigning. Curtis Faulkner also served on the Board of Education of

the Special School District of St. Louis County, which made his service on the redistricting commission in violation of the County Charter. When presented with this conflict, Faulkner declined to resign from the school board to continue his service on the redistricting commission.

County Prosecutor Wesley Bell sent out a statement calling for Faulkner to resign his position. “This commission does serious and necessary work and only has until Dec. 2 to complete it, and Mr. Faulkner’s refusal to comply with the charter is preventing them from fulfilling their mandate,” he stated in a press release. He argued that Faulkner’s refusal to step down meant that any maps the commission made could be thrown out. “If this individual is allowed to stay on the commission, any decision this commission makes could be challenged in court because that decision would have been made in violation of the County Charter.”

Bell filed a Quo Warranto petition in court to expedite Faulkner’s removal from his position, which was granted by judge Thomas C. Albus on Nov. 1. Faulkner will be replaced on the commission by another Republican, in order to maintain its bipartisan structure.

The new council districts that the Reapportionment Commission determines will apply to the Nov. 2022 general elections.

vision, to make this the most rehabilitative correctional facility in the nation.”

Since job fair organizers have previously found that behavioral health challenges can be a barrier to job retention, they are hosting an online panel to address the issue at the outset of this year’s fair.

Hiring justice-involved jobseekers doesn’t just make good business sense, it also enhances public safety. We want people to leave the jail and never come back, and research shows that the faster releasees find gainful employment, the less likely they are to recidivate.”

SLU’s administrative leadership lauded the innovative program housed inside SLU’s Workforce Center. “Service to the community, especially to those in need of another chance, is a critical component of our Jesuit mission and reflects the values SLU holds dear,” said Father David Suwalsky, SJ, Saint Louis University Vice President for Mission and Identity.

Justice-involved jobseekers – or companies interested in becoming second chance employers – can learn more by visiting www.slu.edu/ secondchance or contacting TWA’s Lisa Cohn at 314-9775498 or lisa.cohn@slu.edu.

Jeff Smith is Missouri Workforce Housing Association executive director and chairs the County Justice Services Advisory Board

Guest Columnist Jeff Smith

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Metro East won’t lose any congressmen under new maps Democrats protect strongholds

By Eric Schmid St. Louis Public Radio

Residents in the Metro East have had three congressional representatives for the past decade, and that won’t change for the next one.

New boundaries passed by the Illinois General Assembly last week split the Metro East among the 12th, 13th, and 15th districts. But the number of downstate representatives is about the only thing that’s staying the same.

“The new maps are a fundamental change for the Metro East,” said Ken Moffett, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s political science department chair.

In recent years, the Metro East has only had Republican congressmen, but the new boundary lines will swing the 13th District back to the Democrats, he said. That district combines more populous and Democraticleaning parts of the region, like Belleville and East St. Louis, with Springfield, Decatur, and Champaign.

While the district is more solidly blue, that doesn’t make it easy to represent, Moffett said.

“The Urbana-Champaign area versus the Metro East, you have fundamentally different economic drivers,” he said.

“With Decatur, different still from both and then Springfield with a nontrivial part of the economy driven by the presence of state government.”

Moffett explained this challenge also applies to the 12th and 15th districts, which are also geographically large.

“Just physically in terms of getting to constituents in different parts of the district,

much less representing them in some ways simply because the people who live in that district are very different from each other,” he said. “As a representative, one of the things you want to do is you want to appeal to common district interests.”

The new map boundaries also increase pressure on the current Metro East Republican representatives, forcing Mary Miller and Mike Bost into the same district and making Rodney Davis decide if he wants to run in the Democraticleaning 13th or the Republicanleaning 15th, said Frank Calabrese, a political consultant and map-making expert.

Davis will have to move if he wants to run in the 13th.

n Under this map, it’s likely that Democrats will win 14 out of 17 congressional seats based on previous turnout, Calabrese added.

“The Democrats in Springfield were a little crafty,” Calabrese said. “They don’t want Rodney Davis running statewide, and they don’t really want him running in his former district.”

Having both Democratic and Republican representatives from the Metro East may provide some advantages for the region, like a clear path to lobby for resources from the government, Moffett said.

“No matter which party has

a majority of seats in one or both houses of Congress, you’d still have a built-in case for advocacy either way,” he said.

The newly passed maps also solidify Democrats’ major advantage, producing 13 solid Democratic seats and one more that leans to the left, Calabrese said.

“Down-ballot performance in these districts is much stronger for Democrats,” he said. “This is an improvement. Republicans had an opportunity under the first proposal, in my estimation, to win six or even up to seven seats.”

Under this map, it’s likely that Democrats will win 14 out of 17 congressional seats based on previous turnout, Calabrese added

“Democrats win in these districts from Biden all the way down to attorney general and treasurer, etc.,” he said.

Calabrese explained state Democrats achieved this by carving up DuPage County, which strongly rebuked Donald Trump in the 2020 general election but usually supports down-ballot Republicans.

Next year’s midterm elections will be critical for both political parties because whoever wins the downstate districts will likely hold onto them for the next 10 years, Moffett said.

“The hardest part to staying in office is getting in office,” he said. “The batting average of members of Congress to get reelected is over 90%.”

Eric Schmid covers the Metro East for St. Louis Public Radio as part of the journalism grant program: Report for America, an initiative of The GroundTruth Project.

CDC approval make vaccines available to youths age 5 to 11

St. Louis Public Radio

Vaccines for children are now available for children as young as 5 beginning on Saturday, Nov. 6, St. Louis County health officials announced.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention gave final approval for a lower dose of the Pfizer vaccine to be administered to kids ages 5 to 11, clearing the way for millions of U.S. children to get their shots.

Walgreens and CVS have announced certain locations will begin providing the childsize doses this weekend. More than 200 pharmacies and health care providers in Missouri have pre-ordered vaccine doses for children.

In St. Louis, the Department of Health will work with federally qualified health centers, schools, hospitals and community-based organizations to distribute COVID-19 vaccines to children, according to an announcement released Wednesday. The city will release a list of vaccination

events pending approval from the state health department. Parents and caregivers can bring children to the following vaccination sites in St. Louis County, even if they’re not county residents. Making an appointment in advance is encouraged but not required.

Health centers: John C. Murphy Health Center, 6121 N. Hanley Road, Berkeley, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays, beginning this week, and 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, beginning Nov. 8

South County Health Center, 4580 S. Lindbergh Blvd., Sunset Hills, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, beginning Nov. 9 North Central Community Health Center, 4000 Jennings Station Road, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, beginning Nov. 8

St. Louis County Public Libraries: Rock Road branch, 10267 St. Charles Rock Road, St. Ann, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturdays, beginning this week Lewis and Clark branch, 9909 Lewis and Clark Blvd., St. Louis, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Wednesdays, beginning Nov. 10

National Bridge branch, 7606 Natural Bridge Road, St. Louis, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Thursdays, beginning Nov. 11 Florissant Valley branch, 195 N. New Florissant Road, Florissant, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Fridays, beginning Nov. 12

For more information, residents can call 314-615-7967 or visit ReviveSTL.com.

“Taking Care of You”

Dr. Jade JamesHalbert, Ob-GYN and Care STL

Health director of women’s health emphasized the importance of prenatal care during the first trimester of pregnancy in reducing Black mothers’ maternal morbidity rate during the 2021 Elevate Conference at HarrisStowe State University.

‘There is no wealth without our health’

Conference addressed Black health disparities

By JoAnn Weaver The St. Louis American

The Black community’s economic health is related to its physical health, leaders said during the 2021 Elevate Conference, which targeted ongoing and persistent health issues that plague African Americans.

“If we aren’t able to address those things that lead us down the path of being healthier, then our economics don’t stand a chance,”

Veta Jeffery, Founder of Heartland Black Chamber of Commerce, said during the conference at Harris-Stowe State University.

Vendors set up booths and classes at the conference to provide more community resources. There were fitness courses, free flu shots, COVID-19 booster shots, and mammograms available at the event. Various community leaders addressed different health disparities during the conference.

According to the conference website, the African-American community has the highest indicators for individuals who face challenges including poor health care, education and resources along with complacency, an acceptance of living with HIV-AIDS, diabetes, hypertension, and other health challenges.

“We look at what’s happening today, look at the level of distrust between the communi-

By Dr. Graham A. Colditz Siteman Cancer Center

Though it doesn’t often make headlines these days, it’s hard to overstate how important quitting smoking is to health – and in ways many people may not be aware of.

Smoking impacts almost every organ in the body to some degree. It’s the main cause of lung cancer, of course, but it also causes 14 other cancers, including breast, colon, cervical and kidney cancers. It also greatly increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

Overall, smokers die a decade or more earlier than those who’ve never smoked.

Smoking also raises the risk of conditions that may seem less serious but that can have a major influence on quality of life and daily living. This includes rheumatoid arthritis, cataracts and macular degeneration, which is a common cause of severe vision loss in people over 50. If that’s not enough, smoking is also linked to tooth loss, slower healing of cuts, trouble getting pregnant and erectile dysfunction.

The good news is, quitting smoking lowers the risk of nearly all of these diseases and conditions – and over time, the risk of some drop to near that of a person who’s never smoked.

But you don’t need to wait years to see benefits. Minutes after your last cigarette, your heart rate drops. Then, in the next several days, carbon monoxide levels in your blood fall to that of nonsmokers. And within months, coughing and shortness of breath improve. While finding reasons to quit isn’t hard, actually doing it can be, as many smokers who’ve tried to quit know. The nicotine in tobacco is addictive, and that makes smoking different than many other behaviors we may try to change.

At the same time, quitting is far from impossible. Thousands of smokers stop for good every day. And getting help quitting can double, and maybe even triple, the chances of success.

But only a minority of smokers actually take

Advocating for breast cancer awareness

Dr. Lannis Hall informs community about all the available options

By JoAnn Weaver

St. Louis American

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have surveyed cancer doctors to identify differences in physician attitudes and beliefs that may contribute to a gap in referrals to genetic counseling and testing between Black women and white women with breast cancer.

The breast cancer mortality rate is 41% higher for Black women than white women. Part of the reason for that difference may be that white women are almost five times more likely than Black women to be referred for genetic counseling and testing, suggesting racial disparities in how some doctors refer patients for those services.

Dr. Lannis Hall, director of Radiation Oncology, Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital and Clinical Trials Leader of the Program to Eliminate Cancer Disparities, speaks to communities about breast cancer awareness. Her work in the community

started in college since she had close friends and relatives diagnosed with breast cancer.

“Since medical school and oncology radiation training, I, unfortunately, have seen a lot of pain and suffering caused by breast cancer,” Hall said.

Hall has a personal connection to breast cancer through her late aunt.

“I had an aunt who I loved very dearly who developed breast cancer; she had a mastectomy and lived a long life,” she said. “She didn’t talk about it at all, but she overcame it.”

Hall talked about the options available because of mammograms which can detect breast cancer earlier.

“Not only is survival higher if the cancer is found in an earlier stage, but surgery options greatly differ when caught earlier,” she said.

According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed

See HALL, A15

Photo courtesy of Elevate Conference

See COLDITZ, A15

The

Dr. Graham A. Colditz

From left, Dr. Lannis Hall, Sherrill Jackson, Jovita Oruwari, and the late Ozie Gilbert participated in a past Sista Strut Breast Cancer Walk.

Photo courtesy of Lannis Hall

“Taking

Black female physicians celebrate achievement, ‘amazing’ work

Inaugural brunch held Oct. 31

St. Louis American staff

Black girl health magic was the order of the day recently when about 30 Black female physicians representing various specialties gathered for an inaugural brunch.

Drs. Jade James-Halbert, Carolyn Pryor, and Ebonee Carter hosted the brunch at Cardinal Ritter College Prep.

The doctors came from every major health system, community health centers, insurance companies, private practice, and academic institutions from St. Louis and the Metro East.

“It was such an honor to be a part of this inaugural event to bring Black female physicians in the Metro St. Louis area together,” Pryor said. “There was so much excitement and energy in the room. It’s important for us as Black female physicians to network and support each other not only in our professional lives but in our personal lives. We need to make sure that we remain strong so that we can help the next generation of Black girls who aspire to become doctors.”

The doctors represented specialties including cardiology, family medicine, internal medicine, maternal-fetal medicine, OB/GYN, pediatrics, urology, breast surgery, psychiatry, podiatry, endocrinology, and sports medicines.

Retired pediatrician and St. Louis medical trailblazer Dr. Mary Tillman, 86, received a standing ovation when she entered the room. She was later presented with a bouquet of flowers by James-Halbert and Pryor.

“We love our community,” Dr. Kanika Cunningham, a family medicine physician, said. “It was such an honor to finally meet a St. Louis pioneer for Black women

Hall

Continued from A14

in women and is the second leading cause of cancer-related death.

“When I began practicing medicine, it became clear to me that many women didn’t know when they should begin screening and the importance of self-care,” Hall said.

Disparities

Continued from A14

ty, government, and health care systems along with medical researchers, where this distrust has been earned,” Dr. Fredrick Echols, Commissioner, City of St. Louis Health Department said. “We have to work to not only understand how we got to this point, but we also have to work to create a clear path forward so we can address these issues in a sustainable manner.”

Echols went on to say that 77% of new COVID cases are happening in the region.

Vetta Sanders-Thompson,

Colditz

Continued from A14

physicians, Dr. Mary Tillman, who started this journey in the 1960s. It’s because of her, Dr. Helen E. Nash, and a few others that so many of us stand strong today and continue to provide exceptional care no matter where we work. We love our community.”

The event highlighted the breadth of talent located in St. Louis. Many of the attendees were meeting colleagues for the first time.

“I’m so glad we did this. We needed it,” James-Halbert, OB-GYN, said.

Dr. Denise Hooks-Anderson, M.D., FAAFP, associate professor, SLUCare Family Medicine and The St. Louis American medical editor, called her fellow Black doctors “amazing.”

“The COVID-19 pandemic has been extremely exhausting for health care workers, particularly physicians of color,” Hooks-Anderson said.

“In addition to our daytime duties, many of us are putting in extra hours to educate our communities and families. So, being able to let our hair down and share a meal with our sister doctors was such a treat. My heart was so full of joy, and my soul was at peace.”

Carter said it’s easy to feel discouraged when Black people suffer disproportionately high rates of premature death and disease.

“It’s easy to feel depleted when we live in a country where Black people suffer disproportionately high rates of premature death and disease,” said Carter.

“We work in health care systems where our friends, family, and patients are scared to seek care because the U.S. medical system is fraught with racism and injustices,” she said. “ My heart was filled with fellowship, sisterhood, and support by my Mocha doc sisters, and it felt like we all really needed it.”

According to Hall, selfcare is knowing the lifestyle interventions one can take to prevent breast cancer from developing later in life.

“I would say early on in my career that it was important not to just treat cancer but also to prevent cancer,” she said. “I felt compelled to discuss important intervention methods with my community.”

Hall said many of her loved ones and patients have been

professor of Racial and Ethnic Diversity at Washington University, spoke about the socioeconomic cause of the disparity.

“Most of unemployment is due to health,” SandersThompson said. “There is no wealth without our health.”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate spiked to 14% in 2020. However, Black residents are nearly five times as likely as white residents to experience unemployment, according to the St. Louis City Government website.

13.1% of Black residents are unemployed, compared to 2.7% of white residents. If the unemployment rate were equi-

full advantage of approaches we know help with quitting. For most smokers, this means talking to a healthcare professional about a combination of medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and behavioral support. Medications can include nicotine replacement therapy, like patches or gum, or other drugs, like bupropion. Among its other benefits, behavioral support can help smokers learn to work through barriers to staying smoke-free, like crav-

diagnosed with breast cancer, but she always wanted to incorporate prevention and early detection into her practice.

According to the Carol Milgard Breast Center, there are more treatment options and a better chance for survival if breast cancer is found early. Women whose breast cancer is detected at an early stage have a 93% or higher survival rate in the first five years.

“I would say that we often

table, there would be 7,230 fewer unemployed Black residents.

“As the first Black woman mayor of the city, improving the quality of life for residents is a top priority for my administration,” St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones said at the conference.

St. Louis County Executive Dr. Sam Page referenced the 2021 health outcomes report in his comment on the health crisis, which showed COVID19 was the third leading cause of death in 2020, exposing the disparities among Black county residents.

“The association between adverse health outcomes and socioeconomic status has

ings and triggers that can lead to urges to smoke. Support can come in many different forms, including in-person or virtual classes as well as text-messaging and other programs. If you’re a smoker who wants to quit, you’re in good company. Nearly 70% of smokers feel the same way, and more than half have tried to

don’t know how important the decisions we make in our teens, our twenties, and our early adulthood affects illnesses that we confront later in life,” Hall said. “I think it is a worthwhile message to educate the community regarding how they have more control over their destiny than they think.” When asked what motivates her to spend the time speaking with different groups of people about breast cancer, Hall talked

been well-documented over the years, and during this pandemic, those living in poverty were the most vulnerable to the virus,” Page said.

Director of Women’s HealthCareSTL Health Dr. Jade James-Halbert talked about how resources alone aren’t enough to mitigate the health crisis, specifically maternal mortality.

According to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, maternal health care experiences are not consistent for all mothers.

Between 2014 and 2018, 27% of new Missouri mothers, or more than one in four, did not begin prenatal care in the first trimester. This

quit in the past year. So, if you’re ready to quit – or even ready to just start thinking about quitting – November can be a great month to do it. The American Cancer Society’s Great American Smokeout is Nov. 18. The annual event gives smokers a target date to quit, while highlighting resources at

about an overarching duty that medical professionals have to the community.

“I think the medical community at large has a responsibility to share that knowledge with others,” she said. “I don’t look at my practice as confined to the hospital or cancer center; my practice is the community.”

Hall went on to talk about the importance of a healthy lifestyle to prevent disease as people age.

number was significantly higher among Missouri Black women as more than one in three (40%) did not begin prenatal care in the first trimester.

This limits the ability of providers to address risk factors related to maternal morbidity and mortality, such as pre-pregnancy obesity, which in Missouri disproportionately affects Black mothers (35% compared to 26% of white mothers).

“It takes all of us,” JamesHalbert said. “When we talk about taking care of our mothers to affect maternal mortality, we all have to be there because motherhood doesn’t separate us.”

cancer.org for becoming and staying tobacco-free. Why not celebrate these last couple months of the year by doing something really wonderful for your health? Yes, quitting is hard. But you can do it. It’s your health. Take control.

“I look at prevention and early detection as important as treatment because engaging in healthy lifestyle changes can reduce your risk of developing multiple cancers,” she said. “If you can exercise daily and have a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables, that limits carbs and fats and minimizes animal protein, then you are well on your way to reducing your risk of many cancers that can occur later in life.”

Moreover, illnesses that disproportionately affect the Black community were an important topic of discussion.

Dr. Denise HooksAnderson, M.D., FAAFP and SLUCare Family Medicine associate professor, talked about mental health disorders and other illnesses like high blood pressure and diabetes.

“As a community, we are suffering,” Hooks-Anderson said. “Illnesses like high blood pressure are preventable if we get the right help and assistance, and we just start making some small changes. It didn’t start overnight, so it’s going to take time.”

Dr. Graham A. Colditz, associate director of prevention and control at Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, is an

Dr. Mary Tillman, 86, (seated) was a pioneering pediatrician before her retirement, and she was happy to share advice with resident physicians (from left) Dr. Christian Hendrix, Dr. Dymon Morgan, and Dr. Kyra Anne Forrest during an inaugural brunch at Cardinal Ritter College Prep Oct. 31. The event brought Black female physicians together from St. Louis and Metro East, many of whom had never met.

Photo courtesy of Dr. Denise-Hooks Anderson

PRESENT:

Take Your T ime!

Dining Out.

What Is ASize?Serving

GRAINS Keep ‘em Whole!

The Smart Way!

What Fits?

Warm Up & Cool Down

Fits?

Do This. Not That!

Exercise Game

First Day of Spring!

Standard Time

Calculate BMI

Tech-Neck

Nutrition Challenge:

When we’re lucky enough to have a chance to go out for dinner, there are a few ways to stay healthy with our food

Nutrition Challenge:

Nutrition Challenge:

It seems that all of us ar 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.

We each need at least 3 servings per day of whole grains. But what does that mean? How can we know what foods contain whole grains?

See if the restaurant will let you “share” a meal. Many meals are two, three or more times an actual serving size.

This allows your stomach to “catch

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

In our “Super-Size” world, we can easily lose track of what an actual serving size means. When reading labels on a food or drink product, you can determine the nutrients, sodium, fiber, sugar and calories of a serving size. But be careful; just because it looks like one small bottle

Look at the ingredients list of a package of food you are about to eat. If the word “whole” is used, then there is most likely a whole grain ingredient. A few items that don’t use the word whole

those leftovers for lunch the next day!

are popcorn, wheatberries, brown rice and wild rice.

Healthy Kids

Healthy Kids

Healthy Kids

Healthy Kids

different menu items are

in your diet can improve your

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!

Cocoa Puffers Cereal

> Decide you’re going to switch from soda to water.

lifestyle. You can do this by forming new habits. For example, if you decide to eliminate sugary drinks completely, it only takes a few weeks until this becomes what you’re used to. Here are the steps to making a healthy permanent change. We‘ll use the sugary drink change as an example.

As soon as you’ve divided your plate into the right size servings, ask your server for a to-go box. Go ahead and box up what you don’t need to eat right away. You can enjoy

Let’s make a game out of exercise!

up” with your eating, and know when you’re full. slowly when had enough you stop eating before become from you’ll eat

as stroke, diabetes, heart disease wholegrainscouncil.com for more

Exercise Challenge:

Exercise Challenge:

First, locate either a deck of cards or two dice.

Start by substituting one drink per day to water.

> Avoid gravies, cheese sauces and other kinds of toppings that often just add fat and calories.

Try this

Weekly Newspaper in Education Program

of soda — it may not be considered one serving size. For example, a 20-oz bottle contains 2.5 servings. So if the bottle states “110 calories per serving,” that means the entire bottle contains a total of 275 calories! Remember to watch those serving sizes and you’ll have better control over what you’re eating and drinking.

Deborah Edwards, School Nurse

Yonniece Rose, Registered Nurse

> Every few days increase the amount of water and decrease your soda intake. After 3-4 weeks, this change will become

Learning Standards: HPE 2, HPE 5, NH 1, NH 3, NH 5

> Stick with water to drink. Not only will you save money, but you won’t be adding in extra calories from a sugarfilled drink.

Learning Standards: HPE 2, HPE 5, NH 1, NH 5 Take Your T

Practice chewing each bite 30 times before swallowing.

Try this Practice chewing each bite 30 times before swallowing.

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

When you automatically reach for water instead of soda, it has now become a lifestyle change!

As spring approaches, warmer weather allows us all to get more outdoor exercise. Here are some ways to become a more active person.

> What are other ways to stay healthy while dining out?

Learning Standards: HPE 2, HPE 4, HPE 5, NH 1, NH 2, NH 3, NH 5

even simmered can all mean, “cooked in oil.” Instead, choose baked or grilled options.

Latoya Woods, DNP, APRN, FNP-C

Where do you work? I am a neonatal intensive care nurse at St. Louis Children’s Hospital.

Where do you work? I am a family nurse practitioner for BJC Medical Group.

Where do you work? I am the founder and distance counselor for Goal Driven Counseling, LLC.

Where do you work? I am a school nurse with St. Louis Public Schools.

Where do you work? I am a school nurse at Monroe Elementary School.

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,

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,

It’s important that before you embark on any kind of exercise to remember two things: warm up and cool down. Start with some slow stretches and movement (like walking) to increase your heart rate a little. Warm up for a good five minutes before increasing your heart rate.

March 20, 2021, is the first day of spring. With spring comes warmer weather and longer days (later sunset). Make it a habit to spend as much time playing outside as the weather allows.

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!

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!

Secondly, when you are finished with any kind of strenuous (very active) exercise, take some time to cool down. You can slowly stretch your arms and

Instead of playing video games — play baseball, football, badminton, or some other active game.

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

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

card and fold into a small square. Put these squares into a bowl.

Instead of watching TV — ride your bike with friends.

legs again, and continue with reduced speed movements until your heart rate begins to slow down.

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

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

and breathing. You want to have fun, but it’s also a great way to help keep your heart, lungs and body healthy.

Instead of surfing the ‘Net — go for a brisk walk around the neighborhood.

Next you’ll need to make a list of different types of exercise: jumping jacks, sit-ups, lunges, etc. Write each exercise item on a small piece of paper or index

Some fun outdoor games to play include tag, kickball, basketball, Frisbee, and bicycling. Choose activities that increase your heart rate

> NEVER walk on a “frozen” pond, lake, river or any other body of water. Just because it looks frozen does not mean it is safe.

Take turns rolling the dice (or drawing a card) and selecting an exercise from the bowl. The total number on the dice or card tells you how many of the exercise you must do. Face cards (king,

Make a list of your favorite 10 activities to do outdoors. Compare your list with your classmates and create a chart to see what are the most popular.

This warm-up and recovery period is important for your heart health. It also helps to reduce the amount of muscle pulls and strains.

Can you think of other ways to be more active? Going outside and staying active not only increases your heart rate and burns calories, but it also helps you build friendships!

Learning Standards: HPE1, HPE 2, HPE 5, NH 1, NH 5

On November 7, 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.

On November 7, 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.

Break into small groups and define what it means to be a bully. Share your ideas with the class. Did you have the same things listed (as the other groups) that you would consider as bullying behavior?

Now back in your groups, create a newspaper ad that includes at least two of the following:

A BMI (Body Mass Index) is a generic way to calculate where your weight falls into categories (thin, average, overweight, obese). However, it’s a good idea to remember that a BMI may not take into consideration many things such as athleticism (how athletic you are), your bone density and other factors. Discuss your BMI with your

How much time do you spend each day looking down at a phone, laptop or video game?

> If you are with someone that falls through the ice, first run (or call) for help. Do not try to go out onto the ice to help your friend. You can fall through the ice too.

Chiropractors around the country see young patients every day suffering from back, neck and head-aches resulting from the extra strain you put on your body when you look down for long periods of time.

> What to do if you see someone else bullied.

> Also — remember to look up! Icicles injure numerous people every year. If you see large icicles forming over your front steps,

queen or jack) should all count as the number 10. Aces are “wild” and you can do as many as you want! To really challenge yourself, have one person roll the dice and the second can select the exercise. See who can complete the exercise challenge first!

Learning Standards: HPE 2, HPE 5, NH 1

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

> What to do if YOU are the bully.

Learning Standards: HPE 5, NH 5

Learning Standards: HPE 5, NH 5

doctor if you have any questions. The formula to calculate your BMI is 703 X weight (lbs) ÷ height (in inches/squared) or search “BMI Calculator” to find an easy fill-in chart online. If your number is high, what are some ways to lower your BMI?

1. Most importantly — take breaks! Have a goal of a 3 minute break every 15-20 minutes. Move around, stretch your neck and relax, without looking down!

> How bullying hurts others.

> What to do if you are bullied.

“Questions

A couple of quick tips that will reduce that strain on your neck are:

> When walking on icecovered roadways or sidewalks, take baby steps. Walk carefully and slowly.

Look through the newspaper for examples of ad layouts and design. Discuss the words “compassion,” “empathy” and “sympathy.” How do they each play into your response to bullying at your school?

Learning Standards: HPE 1, HPE 2, NH 5

Where did you go to school? I graduated from McCluer High School. I then earned a Bachelor of Nursing and a Master of Nursing Practice from the University of Missouri – St. Louis. And finally, I earned a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Maryville University.

Where did you go to school? I graduated from Sumner High School. I then earned Associate Degree in Nursing from Forest Park College and a BS in Business Administration from Columbia College.

Apple Ladybugs

Apple Ladybugs

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

Ingredients:

Ingredients:

PRESENT: Banana PB Smoothie

Cracker-wiches

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

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

Ingredients:

8 Saltine crackers

4 Tbsp Peanut butter

Frozen Yogurt Blueberry Bites

Ingredients:

1 cup blueberries

Learning Standards: HPE 2, HPE 5, NH 4

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

Ingredients: 1/2 Cp Vanilla Greek yogurt, 3 Tbsp Natural peanut butter, 1 Ripe banana (sliced and frozen), Splash of vanilla (optional) 6 Ice cubes

2 Large Strawberries

1 Garlic clove, crushed

1 Tbsp Honey (optional)

1 cup non-fat Greek Yogurt

Where did you go to school? I graduated from Alton Sr. High School in Alton, Illinois. I then earned an associate’s degree from Forrest Park Community College in St. Louis and a Bachelor of Nursing from Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville, Illinois. I am currently attending the University of Missouri in Kansas City where I will graduate with a Master of Science in Nursing, which will allow me to practice as a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner.

Where did you go to school? I graduated from McCluer North High School. I earned an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing from Meramec College in Kirkwood and completing my bachelor’s degree at Webster University in Webster Groves.

Where did you go to school? I graduated from Whitney Young Magnet High School in Chicago, IL: same as former first lady Mrs. Michelle Obama. I then earned a Bachelor of Science in Social Work, and a Master of Social Work from the University of Missouri – St. Louis. I also completed two more years of supervision and exams to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Missouri.

What does a family nurse practitioner do? Each day I have office visits with patients to help treat new health conditions and/or manage established health conditions. I perform physical examinations on patients, order labs, read x-rays results, and more.

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.

2 Tsp Cumin, 1 Tsp Olive oil, ½ Tsp Salt Directions: Combine all ingredients in a blender until smooth. Enjoy with baked tortilla chips or raw vegetables.

Directions: Blend all ingredients until Smooth. Makes 2 yummy smoothies!

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.

Directions: Spread peanut butter on four of the crackers and top with sliced strawberries. Drizzle with honey and top with the other crackers to make four cracker-wiches.

Directions: Drop each blueberry into the yogurt. Using a spoon, swirl around to coat and place each blueberry on a cookie sheet topped with parchment paper. Freeze for at least an hour.

What does a school nurse do? I love giving students medications, so they’re able to focus on learning. I clean and bandage wounds. I use medical equipment like a stethoscope, for example, to evaluate whether or not my asthmatics are breathing well. Moreover, I teach and promote healthy habits to my students.

What does a Licensed Clinical Social Worker do? I use technology to help teens and young adults explore their emotions, better understand their feelings, work through relationships, and address common challenges completely online through a computer, tablet, or smart phone. Similar to a Facetime call, I support and guide my clients from the comfort of their home or private location where they are comfortable

What does a neonatal intensive care nurse do? I provide lifesaving care to infants who are born early or who may be born with a critical health condition. I work with teams of nurses, doctors, nurse practitioners, therapists, and other healthcare professionals to provide exceptional care to our babies and their families.

care nurse do? I provide lifesaving care to infants who are born early or who may be born with a critical health condition. I work with teams of nurses, doctors, nurse practitioners, therapists, and other healthcare professions to provide exceptional care to our babies and their families.

“Questions or comments? Contact Cathy Sewell csewell@stlamerican.com or 314-289-5422 Easy Hummus Dip Ingredients: 1 15-Oz Can Garbanzo beans

Why did you choose this career? I chose this career to help improve the health of my community.

What does a school nurse do? I assess the concerns of students who are ill, injured or experiencing alterations in their normal health. Nurses screen daily staff, students and visitors for safety. Monroe School is a pilot school for Covid-19 test sites in partnership with the city. Why did you choose this career? I love nursing because there are many opportunities in hospitals, schools, clinics and offices, insurance, legal and research. My passion is working in the schools with students, parents, staff and community partners.

Why did you choose this career? I am a St. Louis native, and was an asthmatic child who experienced frequent hospitalizations. Besides having the influence of nurses in my family, the local nurses who helped take care of me were my “angels” and always managed to nurse me back to health, thus sparking my interest.

Why did you choose this career? I chose nursing because in this field we have the opportunity to support families during difficult times. Due to my own personal experiences, I know how much of an impact a nurse can have on your life. I chose the NICU because it gives me the opportunity to give back to families. I wanted to provide care for sick infants and their families; the NICU allows me to provide familycentered care for all my patients.

Why did you choose this career? I chose this career because I enjoy being a support to teens and young adults in a very challenging phase of life that can be overwhelming. I enjoy teaching them how to best take care of themselves so they can live healthy and fulfilling lives.

Why did you choose this career? I chose nursing because in this field we have the opportunity to support families during difficult times. Due to my own personal experiences, I know how much of an impact a nurse can have on your life. I chose the NICU because it gives me the opportunity to give back to families. I wanted to provide care for sick infants and their families; the NICU allows me to provide familycentered care for all my patients.

What is your favorite part of the job you have? Many chronic health conditions (diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure) are preventable, and early detection is key. Thus my favorite part of the job is partnering with patients to establish and manage a plan to help them each live a long and healthy life.

What is your favorite part of the job you have? I enjoy when a child tells you, “I want to be a nurse.” And best of all, I love the smiles, hugs and “thank-yous”.

Learning Standards: HPE6, NH3

Learning Standards: HPE6, NH3

What is your favorite part of the job you have? In the NICU our tiny babies overcome huge obstacles. They are small, but they are strong and because of that I get the opportunity to witness miracles every day.

What is your favorite part of the job you have?

My childhood health challenges have given me sensitivity to children suffering with illness. After being given a new lease on life, I consider it an honor to be in a position to promote health to the children of my community, in whatever capacity I serve – in turn, being their “angel.”

What is your favorite part of the job you have? I love that my job makes talking about mental health not as scary and even makes it kind of cool. I love that I get to build valuable relationships with so many people that trust me to be there for them. I love that no matter where my clients are, we can simply connect with a video call and I can not only support them through hard times, but lots of good times as well.

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

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

Learning Standards: HPE6, NH3

Learning Standards: HPE 6, NH 3

Learning Standards: HPE6, NH3

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

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

Letecia Jones, BSN

Letecia Jones, BSN

Group seeks to reverse disinvestment

11-member coalition wants to boost hiring, spending in low-income areas

By Karen Robinson-Jacobs

The St. Louis American

For Stefani Weeden-Smith, a just-announced push to boost employment and spending in a low-income stretch of northern St. Louis County and city is personal.

“I’m a native St. Louisan,” Weeden-Smith, the newly minted director of the recently formed St. Louis Anchor Action Network, said. “I grew up in Ferguson, Missouri. So, it’s a very personal story for me to be able to come full circle and to be able to give back to this community.”

The network, made up mostly of area academic and health care institutions, aims to rewrite statistics brought on by years of disinvestment in 22 local zip codes covering communities including Ferguson and Jennings and in St. Louis neighborhoods including Penrose, O’Fallon, and The Ville.

The network aims to increase employment, income, and wealth in the focus area to address racial, economic, and other inequities in the

broader region.

The announcement comes as governments and business leaders nationwide confront yawning racial gaps in everything from health care to healthy food access – disparities highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic and by protests over inequalities in the criminal justice system.

In the focus area, 24% of the population lives below the federal poverty threshold of $12,880 compared with 11% in the broader region, according to a report released by the network.

The area – which includes about 300,000 residents or about 24% of the city/county population – is 70% Black and is home to at least half of the region’s unemployed Black residents.

The report said per capita income – the average income earned per person – in the area is

$22,828 compared with $35,753 for the region.

“These stark inequities do not only hold back individuals and families living in this geography. They hold back the entire region,” according to the report. “We can and must build shared economic prosperity and improve the quality of life in all communities in order to build a stronger St. Louis region.”

Todd Swanstrom is a professor of community collaboration and public policy administration with network member University of Missouri –St. Louis.

He cited research showing the greater the economic gap between American central cities and their suburbs, even when “you control for a whole bunch of other factors, … the slower the rate of growth of the region as a whole.”

He also noted negative publicity about a small area, as was seen during the protests following the police slaying of Michael Brown, can hamper the growth of the overall region if companies thinking

KAI honored for diversity, inclusion by AGC of America

Enterprises celebrated its 40th Anniversary in 2020, and 2021 has also held exciting news for the 100% Minority-Owned Business Enterprise. KAI was recently honored with the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) Diversity and Inclusion Excellence Award in the mid-size contractor category.

n “We are committed to diversity in our workforce, clients and projects.”

– KAI CEO Michael Kennedy, Jr.

“We believe that diverse perspectives and backgrounds bring strength to our work in both our daily operations and our final product,” said KAI CEO Michael Kennedy, Jr., while accepting the award in Orlando, Florida.

“As a minority-owned firm, we feel it’s important to advocate for inclusive communities, and we are committed to diversity in our workforce, clients and projects. Establishing a firm grounded on diversity is where the core of KAI’s foundation stands.”

According to the Robert Lanham, AGC president, the award honors AGC members that are champions in advancing diversity and fostering a culture of inclusion within their workforce, supply chain and in the communities they serve.

PeoPle on the Move

McAllister Fowler

The Cortex Innovation Community’s board recently elected June McAllister Fowler, senior vice president for communications, marketing and public affairs for BJC HealthCare, to be its board chair, serving a term through December 2022. Fowler is the first AfricanAmerican chair and the first female chair in the district’s history. Prior to joining BJC, Fowler was senior director of communications and community affairs for Mallinckrodt. She is retiring from BJC in November.

Magnus joins Thompson Coburn

announced that litigator

Magnus

Magnus has joined the firm as a partner in its St. Louis office. Magnus was previously a partner in the St. Louis office of Lewis Rice. She began her legal career by serving as the law clerk to the chief judge of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of Missouri. In 2020, Magnus was appointed by the Government of Canada, and confirmed by the State Department of the U.S., to serve as Canada’s Honorary Consul for the greater St. Louis area. Fowler named board chair for Cortex

Ojolola promoted at S.M.

S.M. Wilson & Co. has promoted Ayo Ojolola to assistant project manager. Ojolola joined S.M. Wilson in 2015 and has worked on several high-profile projects including IKEA, Solana East Cobb, BJC Campus Renewal and City Foundry STL. He is currently working on the Ladue School District project team, working on Old Bonhomme Elementary School, which includes two additions at two sides of the school and renovation throughout the existing school. Ojolola has a B.S. in construction engineering technology from Murray State University and is OSHA 30 certified.

Perine

Tamyka Perine will act as the third executive director of Cultural Leadeship and will be the first woman of color to assume the helm. Prior to taking on her role as executive director of Cultural Leadership, Perine served as director of development for City Academy, a local independent school in north St. Louis city committed to removing financial and economic barriers to high-quality education. The mission of Cultural Leadership is to develop a diverse group of youth into social justice changemakers who advocate for equitable and just practices.

Thompson Coburn

Sonette

Jume

Sonette

Tamyka

Ayo Ojolola

Perine to head Cultural Leadership

KAI Enterprises is 2021 recipient of an AGC of America Diversity and Inclusion Excellence Award. From left are CEO Michael Kennedy, Jr.; AGC of America Diversity and Inclusion Steering Committee Chair Henry Nutt, III; AGC President Robert Lanham; and Director, Global Construction, Willis Towers Watson (Awards Sponsor) Paul Becker. See KAI, B2

Stefani WeedenSmith

ARCHS grants $2.5 million for after-school programs

St. Louis American staff

Area Resources for Community and Human Services (ARCHS) has issued $2.5 million in funding to provide free after-school programming for 1,900 students at 29 locations in the Jennings and Saint Louis Public School districts.

Receiving grants are the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis, Gene Slay’s Boys and Girls Club, Hopewell Center, Northside Youth and Senior Service Center, Provident Behavioral Health, Stray Dog Theatre/ Arts in Mind, Unleashing Potential and United 4 Children - Professional Development Training.

ARCHS’ After School for All Partnership (ASAP) provides free, programming for under-resourced children in grades K-5. The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and Saint Louis Mental Health Board grants funding to ARCHS to support ASAP, and the Jennings School District and Saint Louis Public Schools also offer in-kind support.

Disinvestment

Continued from B1

of moving here are turned off.

“It damages the reputation of the region,” Swanstrom said. “I think it makes the region less attractive to young people who are looking for a modern economy or looking for diverse and exciting cities where they can pursue their careers. They’re going to be less likely to come to St. Louis if they feel like this is a place that’s deeply segregated and unequal.”

Weeden-Smith said many specific goals for the network, which is looking to add more members, have yet to be determined.

Broadly, in a news release the network listed goals of increasing the number of residents, especially Black and brown residents, in the focus area who network members hire, having more residents employed with network members attain higher wages through career development and promotion, and increasing spending within the target area, especially with Black and brown-owned businesses.

The report states for the Black employment rate in the target area to match the employment rate in the rest of the region, Black residents would need to fill 7,869 more jobs.

Some of the jobs exist but may not be a match for residents due to distance, especially for those relying on public transportation or education and skills set, said Swanstrom, who worked on the initial research

KAI

Continued from B1

“KAI is and has been an advocate for creating inclusive communities and is clearly dedicated to increasing diversity in their staff and workforce. KAI’s D&I efforts are a part of their core values and can be seen in their corporate processes,” according to D&I Awards judges.

The Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis is among the recipients of ARCHS’ grants to provide free after-school programming for students in the Jennings and St. Louis Public Schools districts.

The ASAP programs focus on academic support and enrichment, social and life skills, health and recreation, and parent and family involvement. All sites meet state licensing standards, its staff members are provided with professional development training opportunities.

for the network.

For the per capita income of Black residents in the target region to match the per capita income of the broader region, the income for every Black resident would have to be increased by $17,407, according to the network report.

The formal work of the network, which began as informal conversations in 2019, will begin with data gathering to create a benchmark.

“We are seeking to assess the number of employees and the sum of [their] wages

n “These stark inequities do not only hold back individuals and families living in this geography, they hold back the entire region.”

– St. Louis Anchor Action Network

… broken down by race and ethnicity in the footprint,” Weeden-Smith said.

Armed with $400,000 from the Missouri Foundation for Health, researchers also will try to determine how much money is being spent with Black and brown-owned businesses in the target area, according to the network report. Data totals will be shared with the community.

The study will include a bit of self-reflection for the 11 network members, which, besides UMSL includes Washington University, Harris-Stowe State University, Edward Jones, BJC Healthcare

“It is exciting to see companies like KAI continue to embrace and implement D&I efforts as not the ‘right thing to do’ but rather as a key element for the organization’s success.”

Women and minorities represent 49% of KAI’s staff, and the firm initiated several employment advertising campaigns in local publications that specifically target potential MBE/DBE/SDVE/WBE, the firm said in a release.

KAI also has a strong outreach program to identify

During the 2020-21 school year, ARCHS’ ASAP served 1,370 students at 29 locations through in-person and virtual settings. Students benefitted from 17,826 learning activities and 300,000 hot meals. For additional information, visit stlarchs.org

and the St. Louis Zoo, according to Weeden-Smith.

At least seven members are in the focus area.

“We really are working towards a measured accountability,” Weeden-Smith said.

“Really taking those looks at their organizations, …really looking at where they are and, you know, hopefully, to continue to get to a place that does show more diversity. Some places may already be closer to that than others. And so, we want to have some mechanism [in which individual network members] are able to be accountable for themselves and to the community.”

In the early research phase, the local network has looked to anchor-led networks in other cities that also are working to address racial inequalities. At the end of its first three years, BLocal, a collaboration of 28 anchor institutions and corporations in Baltimore, reported spending more than $280 million for purchasing or construction contracts with local and minority vendors and hiring an additional 1,700 Baltimore residents, the local network report said. Locally the target zip codes are: 63101, 63102, 63103, 63104, 63106, 63107, 63112, 63113, 63114, 63115, 63118, 63120, 63121, 63133, 63134, 63135, 63136, 63137, 63138, 63140, 63147, and 63155.

Karen Robinson-Jacobs is The St. Louis American / Type Investigations business reporter and a Report for America corps member.

minority-owned and woman-owned businesses that they can collaborate with on projects, and KAI participates in organizations and events that focus on minority inclusion in the construction industry.

“Diversity and inclusion are integrated into our job responsibilities because KAI feels that it is our duty to be the ambassador of diversity. We thrive on encouraging diversity and inclusion into our job functions,” said Kennedy. “We appreciate the AGC for honoring our diversity efforts.”

KAI Enterprises has also been named 2021 Firm of the Year by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Dallas The recognition goes to a member firm that has best demonstrated outstanding commitment to design, practice, community, and professional endeavors.

“This is a tremendous honor for our design firm. We couldn’t be happier than to be recognized by AIA Dallas for the commitment we have made to building community and improving the lives of Dallas-Fort Worth-area residents through our projects, particularly in the minority communities,” said KAI President Darren L. James, FAIA

“We are proud to have served the Dallas-Fort Worth community for over 20 years.”

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

Sports

InSIdE SportS

By Earl Austin Jr.

DeSmet seeks payback in showdown with CBC

The Missouri football playoffs have moved to the district semifinals stage this weekend, and there isn’t a bigger matchup than the showdown at CBC at 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 5. Metro Catholic Conference rivals CBC (9-1) and DeSmet (8-2) will square off for the second time this season in the Class 6, District 1 semifinals. Over the past four seasons, the winner of this district playoff game has advanced to the state championship game.

CBC defeated visiting DeSmet 44-29 in September and went on to clinch the MCC championship.

The Cadets boast one of the most potent offensive units in the state, led by quarterback Patrick Heitert. He has passed for 2,258 yards and 15 touchdowns, with just two interceptions.

A talented group of receivers is led by Jeremiah McClellan, who has 805 receiving yards and eight touchdowns. Ayden Robinson-Wayne has 505 yards and five touchdowns. Speedy junior Jeremiyah Love has rushed for a team-high 666 yards and 10 touchdowns.

DeSmet’s other loss this season was to powerhouse East St. Louis. The Spartans are led by dual-threat quarterback Christian Cotton, who has passed for 831 yards and rushed for 524 yards, accounting for 22 touchdowns. Junior Keshawn Ford has registered 483 yards and six touchdowns. Gavin Bomstad and Demetrion Cannon are fleet receivers, while Christian Gray is a home run hitter as a kick returner.

Week 10 Highlights

• Quarterback Hasaan Cody of Jennings rushed for 132 yards, passed for 115 yards, and had three touchdowns in the Warriors’ 38-0 victory over McCluer North.

• Quarterback AJ Raines of Timberland had 428 yards of total offense and six touchdowns in the T-Wolves’ 50-13 victory over Pattonville. He rushed for 240 yards and five touchdowns and passed for 188 yards and a touchdown.

• Running back John Clay of Brentwood rushed for 193 yards on 21 carries and four touchdowns in the Eagles’ 38-36 victory over Louisiana.

• Running back Deion Brown of Kirkwood rushed for 171 yards on 24 carries and a touchdown in the Pioneers’ 35-7 loss to DeSmet.

On Tap this Weekend (Missouri District Semifinals)

SLUH (6-3) at Marquette (9-1), Friday, 7 p.m., (Class 6, District 1)

Ladue (9-1) at Eureka (8-2), Friday, 7 p.m.

(Class 5, District 2) Vashon (7-1) at Gateway STEM (4-5), Friday, 7 p.m. (Class 4, District 2)

Timberland (7-3) at Francis Howell (9-1), Friday, 7 p.m. (Class 6, District 2) Hazelwood Central (8-2) at Troy (8-2), Friday, 7 p.m. (Class 6, District 2)

Lafayette (5-5) at Summit (10-0), Friday, 7 p.m. (Class 5, District 2) Festus (6-4) at Hillsboro (8-1), Friday, 7 p.m.

(Class 4, District 1)

Soldan (5-4) at MICDS (9-0), Saturday, noon, (Class 4, District 3) St. Dominic (6-4) at McCluer (8-2), Saturday, 1 p.m. (Class 4, District 4)

Illinois Playoffs (Second Round)

Class 6A: Oak Lawn Richards (8-2) at East St. Louis (8-2), Saturday, 6 p.m.

Class 5A: Marion (9-1) at Mascoutah (9-1), Saturday, 2 p.m.

Class 4A: Sacred Heart Griffin (9-1) at Bethalto Civic Memorial (7-3), Saturday, 5 p.m.

Class 4A: Carterville (8-2) at Freeburg (8-2), Saturday, 6 p.m.

SportS EyE

With Alvin A. Reid

Cougars roar

running back Kamron Long (3) paced a running attack that led the Cougars to a 36-20 victory over Lutheran South on Saturday, Oct. 30, 2021, at Gateway STEM High School.

Class 2A: Johnson City (9-1) at Mater Dei (10-0), Saturday, 2 p.m.

• Sydney Harris commits to Central Michigan Edwardsville High girls’ basketball standout Sydney Harris has committed to Central Michigan. As a junior, a 6’0” shooting guard, Harris was a member of the St. Louis American Girls Fab-Five All-Star Team after leading the Tigers to a 16-1 record. She is the top returning player in the Metro East area, and one of Illinois’s top prospects. As a junior, Harris averaged 19.8 points, 7.7 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.6 steals, shooting 53% from the field and 40% from the 3-point range.

St. Louis Cardinals, surprisingly, have already had a minority

Oliver Marmol is the St. Louis Cardinals manager following the abrupt firing of former skipper Mike Schildt. At 35, Marmol becomes the youngest manager in Major League Baseball. You’ve probably heard or read he is the first minority manager the team hired, or the story he is “officially” the first minority to hold the job. Before we visit a SportsEye from March 2018, I think Marmol’s hiring is historic for the franchise, but former Cardinals shortstop Mike González first made history. The Cuban-born Gonzalez served as an interim manager for 16 games in 1938 and six in 1940. He was a journeyman who played various positions, primarily catcher, throughout his 17-season career. He played for the Cardinals three separate times: 1915-18, 1924-25, and 193132. Cardinals player-manager Frankie Frisch hired González as a coach in 1934, calling him “a great guy, loyal and true,” according to a 1938 Sporting News article.

The team, known as the “Gas House Gang,” won the NL pennant and defeated the Detroit Tigers in a seven-game World Series. In 1938, Frisch’s squad was 63-72 when he was dismissed.

González took over for the final 16 games of the year. He went 8-8, and the Cardinals finished sixth in the National League. According to the Society for American Baseball Research (SABR), González was the first Latino manager in Major League Baseball.

Alvin A. Reid

“I hate to see him go,” Gonzalez, a close friend of Frisch’s, said. He’s a real pal and a good man. I didn’t want him to leave.” Cardinals executive Branch Rickey and owner Sam Breadon reportedly sought González’ input on a new manager. The franchise hired Gonzalez’s former manager at Columbus, Ray Blades. Blades led the Cardinals to a second-place NL finish with a 92-61 mark, 4 ½ games out of first, but Blades’ second season came to a quick end after posting a 14-24 record in 1940. González took over for six

At 35,

games and went 1-5.

manager

as a coach.

Southworth left for Boston in 1945, and Eddie Dyer was named manager. Again, González was retained as a coach. He coached third base when Enos Slaughter made his “mad dash” to score the go-ahead run in Game Seven of the 1946 World Series against the Boston Red Sox.

He insisted he waved Slaughter home because the bottom of the order was scheduled to bat, and he didn’t want to strand a runner at third in the bottom of the eighth.

According to some writers, Slaughter, who vehemently opposed MLB baseball integration and purposely spiked Jackie Robinson in 1947, never credited González for his role in the famous play. It would be the last game that González coached in the Majors.

To put the timeline in perspective, Gonzalez’s first stint as manager came nine years before Robinson played for the Brooklyn Dodgers and 16 years before Tom Alston became the Cardinals’ first black player.

The Reid Roundup

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin was right-

fully insulted when his name was linked with the open USC football team job. “I mean, that’s a joke to me. I got one of the best jobs in all professional sport. Anybody asking [Saints head coach] Sean Payton about that? Anybody asking [Chiefs head coach] Andy Reid about stuff like that?”…Former St. Louis/L.A. Rams head coach Jeff Fisher, a former USC player, is rumored to be ‘in the mix’ for the USC job…The New Jersey Devils announced that a Black-owned business logo will be featured on player helmets for 13 home games this season. Prudential Financial will finance the sponsorship fee…After undefeated Michigan State defeated Michigan on Oct. 30, head coach Mel Tucker became a leading candidate for the open LSU job. After former coach Mike Dantonio’s surprise resignation in February 2020, Tucker left

The Cardinals hired Billy Southworth to close that sea-

son, and he led the Cardinals to the World Series

St. Louis Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol is Major League Baseball’s youngest manager. Marmol is not the first Latino or minority manager in the team’s history. That achievement belongs to the late Mike González.

Carnahan

Carnahan will take on Lift for Life Academy in a Class 2 state playoff game on Nov. 6.

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

Earl Austin Jr.

Photo courtesy of the St. Louis Cardinals

Living It

Worth a thousand words

Esteemed photography hall of fame class includes Obama’s former White House photographer

By Danielle Brown

The St. Louis American

The International Photography Hall of Fame and Museum are not only honoring seven well-respected talented photographers but are displaying some of their work featured in an exhibition there until Feb. 11, 2022.

The Hall of Fame recognized Pete Souza, Dawoud Bey, Philip-Lorca diCorcia, Larry Burrows, David Douglas Duncan, Sally Mann, and Joyce Tenneson for their creative and visionary contributions to the art of photography.

The midtown museum also presented Joel Sartore with the first-ever IPHF Visionary Award, in addition to the Professional Photographers of America, the world’s largest nonprofit trade association for professional photographers, with the Leadership Award.

Hometown

love at heart of acclaimed film

Damien D. Smith’s ‘Target St. Louis Vol. 1’ plays SLIFF

By Kenya Vaughn For The St. Louis American

Though he left St. Louis soon after high school to pursue a career in film, television and stage, award-winning filmmaker Damien D. Smith remained connected to his hometown, mainly through his grandmother Sarah M. Barnes. She would mail him clippings of the latest news and current events from St. Louis newspapers and follow up with a phone call. In-depth, they discussed whatever she felt compelled to meticulously save, clip, and send to his current home base in Los Angeles. One of their routine of clips and conversations ended up setting him and his 4910 Rosalie Productions on the path to creating his first feature-length documentary, “Target St. Louis Vol. 1.” “I called her, and we talked about it, and I was so mind blown that I instantly wanted as many people to know about what was happening as I possibly could,” Smith said.

n Works of creative and innovative photographic visionaries on display at the midtown museum.

“Despite the challenges we continue to face around the world as a society, we are proud to add these exceptional honorees into the Hall of Fame and celebrate their contributions to the art of photography,” Richard Miles, chairman of the board of IPHF, said. Souza, a freelance photographer and bestselling author most known for his tenure as the

The topic was the covert chemical testing in the Pruitt-Igoe Homes and neighboring communities following World War II, during the Cold War era. “I thought, ‘I have a skill set, and I am going to use it to help my people. This is a story that needs to be told,’” Smith said. “I felt that for me to be able to do that was to put it in a documentary film.” Fresh on the heels of a “Best Documentary Feature” win at the Urban World Film Festival last month in New York City, Smith is bringing “Target St. Louis Vol. 1,” to the place where it all began.

chief official White House photographer during Barack Obama’s presidency, said he’s overwhelmed to be part of the IPHF.

“It’s the greatest honor to be inducted into this hall of fame,” he said. “It’s not something that I would’ve ever dreamed would be possible for me.”

Initially, he said he wanted to be a sportswriter during his undergraduate years at Boston University, but his dream job changed after completing a photography course.

He said there was something about the process of making and developing black and white photographs that felt magical for him, and that’s when he knew photojournalism was the better career.

After college, he transitioned from being a

See Photos, C2

“I don’t get to be home as much as far as presenting my craft,” Smith said. “So to not only be home but to have something focused on home is just amazing.”

The film will screen at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 5th , as part of the Whitaker 30th Annual St. Louis International Film Festival Programming.

“It is told through the eyes of survivors,” Smith said. “Some were children at the time of these tests, and they are just now telling their story through this film. This happened to one of the most vulnerable populations in St. Louis – a predominantly African American community.”

Much like the initial conversation with his grandmother, Smith was also blown away by the willingness and enthusiasm of his subjects. They were intentional and purposeful they were to make sure that the next generation hears their story, and within their experiences was the sheer horror of the residual effects on the people made to be unwitting guinea pigs, he said.

“These tests were conducted on this group of people without any regard for their safety or health or how it would impact them in the future,” Smith said. “There was no follow-up. These are my family members. This is my grandmother, my aunts, my extended family. They grew up in this area as well.”

Smith hopes that those who see “Target St. Louis Vol. 1” will be inspired to use their talents and skills as a method to shed light on injustices – past and present – within their respective communities.

“Prayerfully, something within the film will enact some type of mobilization,” Smith said. “The same thing that happened to me when I talked with my grandmother about what happened.”

See Film, C2

Deeper than Rap

MalcolmXavier raps conscious lyricism over trippy, trap production

By Danielle Brown The St. Louis American

MalcolmXavier may be new to music, but he’s clear about the message he wants his art to convey and in a way that still catches the listener’s ear. He wants to promote positive music over dope trap-infused production.

A student of hip-hop new to the game, he took a page out of the rapbooks of J.Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Big K.R.I.T., and Young Thug to help create a sound that collaborates the two worlds of forward-thinking rap on bass knocking beats for his debut EP, “Energy,” which was released in September.

“When I put the mixtape together, I asked myself how I can take a meaningful subject matter and place it on a beat that may be similar to a Playboi Carti type of beat,” he said. “Carti wouldn’t say what I’m saying, but it’s the perfect combination of how to get someone’s attention in today’s society.” He also made the EP 14 minutes for the same reason. He said he knows being a newer artist who isn’t signed to a major label calls for putting music in small doses first then working your way up to meatier projects.

n “There’s more people out there like you and can relate to you than you think. I had to get out of my head like ‘nah bruh, its other people that can relate to you.’”

- MalcolmXavier

“As a new artist that’s independent, you can’t expect someone to listen to 20 to 30 minutes of 18,” he said. “When music is short, people run it back more.”

The project was created on a humbug and built around the same track, “Energy.” In that song, he explains his life journey, doubting his musical capabilities and everyday issues he battles with as a 28-year-old man.

There was a point outside of music where he said he needed to refocus and get into a space of not feeling down or depressed. Him pulling himself out of that mindset is what he said inspired that song.

He said he’s confident in staying authentic and not playing into the typical content heard in trap music because it’s not related to his lifestyle.

While some rappers rap about selling drugs and how many people they’ve shot, that’s not something Malcolm wants to portray in his music because he doesn’t have those life experiences.

“Sometimes I feel like people get caught up trying to fit a certain image,” he said. “There’s more people out there like you and can relate to you than you think. I had to get out of my head like ‘nah bruh, its other people that can relate to you.’”

He said he makes music for regular everyday people, such as himself and his friends who are college-educated, have good jobs making great

See Rap, C8

Photo courtesy of Pete Souza

Jacob Philadelphia touches the head of President Barack Obama after Jacob had mentioned that his friends told him his haircut was just like the president’s.

A student of hip-hop new to the game, MalcolmXavier looked to create a sound that collaborates the two worlds of forward-thinking rap on bass knocking beats for his debut EP, “Energy,” which was released in September.

was elected to the Senate, he documented his first couple of years in office for the Chicago Tribune. It was an opportunity he said was exclusive for working with Obama’s hometown newspaper.

newspaper photographer into a junior official White House photographer during Ronald Reagan’s presidency.

“I was in my 20s when I started that job, and it was quite overwhelming to go from a newspaper to suddenly be walking into the Oval Office every day documenting that presidency for history,” he said.

“I was exposed to the most powerful people in our government in a very intimate way. It was a great experience for somebody that was as young as I was.”

He is best known for his role as the chief official White House photographer and director of the White House photo office during the Obama administration.

Surprisingly, he started working for him by happenstance. In 2004, when Obama

He said since he developed a professional relationship with him and appreciated how he conducted himself, Obama asked him to be his White House photographer when he was elected president.

Obama making history as the first Black president of the United States was something Souza, said he as a white male, was very cognizant about when snapping photos of him interacting with Black people and other people of color. He knew the significance of Black youth seeing a positive example of someone who looks like them in a powerful position.

“On a day-to-day basis, though, I looked at him as the president, not as the first Black president,” he said. “He’s making decisions like any other president, but it was these interactions with other people where I was very cognizant of him being the first Black president.”

Dawoud Bey, a Black inductee who is also deaf, is notable for capturing the daily lives of African Americans since 1975. His career launched as a street photographer taking photos of African Americans in Harlem and Brooklyn. His said reason behind the photos was because he wanted to make images he wasn’t seeing and showcase photos that conveyed the rich humanity of Black people.

“I didn’t want to portray them through a lens of sociology or pathology, as they often were but as fully and deeply human, like the people in my family or in my own Brooklyn neighborhood,” Bey said.

“For most of my career, I’ve made photographs of African Americans and young people; two groups that I think are not always given serious

photographic attention,” he said. “The fact that I am truly interested in the people I photograph and using my work as a platform for amplifying their presence allows them to trust me. That trust leads to photographs that have a deep sense of interiority and calm.” His current work explores history embedded in the landscape and how that history relates to the African American piece of the American narrative.

He said his creative process begins with extensive research before picking up his camera.

“So it’s not so much about ‘capturing’ something for me—which I consider to be a very aggressive term for what photographers do—but being grounded and then seeing as deeply into the subject as possible, and giving that an interesting photographic form,” he said.

Bey has worn a hearing aid since third grade and credits him becoming a photographer for having to depend a lot on his eyesight.

“It’s science we compensate for the lack of one sense through the overdevelopment of others,” he said. “That hearing loss also causes me to pay greater attention, and that attention, and the connection that results, was definitely important to my early portrait-based work.”

Some advice Souza gives photojournalists interested in the work he does is to stay authentic and true to what they’re creating.

“I think more than ever today, photojournalists or documentary photographers need to make authentic photographs,” he said. “We live in a time when the technology is such that it’s so easy to manipulate photographs or to create a false narrative with photographs.”

Visit https://iphf.org/ for more information about the exhibition.

Smith refers to “Target St. Louis Vol. 1” as a love letter to St. Louis, but he acknowledges the experience was more like a mutually beneficial exchange of affection.

Working to create “Target St. Louis Vol. 1” and its many versions before the awardwinning final product taught Smith about himself as a filmmaker, an artist, and an activist. Certain aspects of civic and social engagement have spawned from him taking that leap. Presenting the film at SLIFF is a dream come true that Smith admits hasn’t completely sunken in.

“I’ll have these moments where I’m just out, maybe riding my bike, and I’ll be like, ‘yo’, I’m going home to present a documentary I did about home and for home.’ And I’ll just get this feeling of euphoria,” he said.

“I ended up learning so many amazing lessons throughout the whole process of making this film,” Smith said. “And I was reminded that St. Louis is still looking out for me.”

“Target St. Louis Vol 1” will screen at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 5th at Washington University’s Brown Hall Auditorium (located on Centennial Greenway) as part of the Whitaker 30th Annual St. Louis International Film Festival. The festival takes place from Nov. 4-21 at various locations. For a full schedule of films, venues, and COVID19 health protocols, visit

Photo courtesy of Dawoud Bey

Mary Parker and Caela Cowan, Birmingham, AL 2012.

St. Louis American Staff

The steeple of the former Second Baptist Church at 500 North Kingshighway, the future home of the Gospel Music Hall of Fame-Missouri, was damaged by flames Oct. 26.

Located in the Central West End neighborhood Holy Corners, it is a Missouri Alliance of Historic Preservation site and one of nine buildings that comprise the Holy Corners National Register of Historic Places District.

“We are saddened but not

deterred over this unfortunate incident,” the Gospel Music Hall of Fame-Missouri founder Monica Butler said. “We are moving forward with this historic project which will enrich this community on so many levels. We’re just grateful no one was hurt in the fire and that the heroic firefighters of the St. Louis City Fire Department were able to contain the fire and limit the damage.”

Alderwoman Heather Navaro called the scene “devastating.”

“The community will rally around the protection of this historic and sacred space, and if anyone can restore the grandeur of the church out of the ashes, it will be the

catch my meaning: “…Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.”

Flames damaged the steeple of a former church in the Holy Corners neighborhood in St. Louis on Oct. 26. The site is the future location of the Gospel Music Hall of Fame-Missouri, which will include a gospel music education center.

Photo courtesy of Gospel Music Hall of Fame-Missouri

One of the key areas of “being Christian” I know I have problems with is the idea of forgiveness.

Maybe you do too.

Jesus, time and again, reminds His disciples although the laws of His Father are crystal clear, God is always receptive to a repentant heart.

“Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation…”

—2 Corinthians 7:10. Some say God is a second chance giver. Others know He is another

chance giver. The latter would apply to me. Without another chance or two or three, or four, my gaining entrance to the kingdom would certainly be a lost cause. The whole point of Christ’s crucifixion was to forgive us our sins, thereby freeing us from the prospect of trying to earn our way into God’s good graces. Christ took care of that for us indeed. “In Him, we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, per the

riches of God’s grace He lavished upon us with all wisdom and understanding.” –Ephesians 1:7-8. I guess this identifies forgiveness as the focal point for the Christian experience and deserves our serious attention. You see, even though Christ fulfilled His purpose on the cross, our obligation to forgive became critical as we assume the position of “being saved.” We, too, are now part of the forgiveness experience, if you

We must exhibit mercy and forgiveness in our own lives if we are to enjoy the blessing of mercy and forgiveness so graciously given to us. “Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you” Colossians 3:13.

wish harm on those who have done harm to us. It is so much easier to play the eye for an eye game.

This is not turn-theother-cheek stuff. This is just “let-it-go-forgive-and-forget” stuff and it’s hard. We are not built to hold grudges, not to seek revenge, not to want to get even or not to

When you understand your own unwillingness to forgive or your own just don’t want to attitude, it is easy to hear Christ say, and “He who is without sin cast the first stone.”

John 8:7

Some of us even have the nerve to walk around with rocks in our hearts as well as our hands. The honest Christian recognizes that the world is more easily navigated with a do unto others as you would have them do unto you

Center (formerly St. Louis Christian Center) in 1993,” she said. “I am still excited at the prospect of it being restored because the structure has been a quiet treasure of beauty in the community.”

The $22 million dollar renovation project is slated to include a soundstage, interactive exhibits, a café and an event space. Working with Butler are developer Steve Smith of The Lawrence Group, and the Hall of Fame-Missouri president Lin. Woods.

“The renovation of this historic church into a cultural arts, entertainment and gospel music education center will create jobs, spin off businesses and bring much needed economic opportunities to this community and the St. Louis region as it becomes a national tourist destination,” Woods said. For additional information on the renovation, visit www. mogospel.com

frame of mind. I don’t know about you, but I’d rather be done by people who will do me correctly. Do me in the name of the lord and I’ll do you likewise. You know, somewhere that loving your neighbor as yourself thing is messing with somebody reading this right now. As human beings, we tend to complicate the simplest of God’s edicts. So, allow me to put my point to you this way. The road to heaven is readily navigated by the ones who let the stones go. The road to hell is navigated by the ones who throw them. Which one are you? May God bless and keep you always.

Monica Butler,” Navaro said. State Sen. Karla May (D, 4th Ward) said the site has spe-

Columnist James Washington

FIREMEDIC

Pattonville Fire Protection District is accepting applications for a FIREMEDIC position. Must meet minimum qualification, please see website www.pattonvillefd. com for details. Applications can be picked up at 13900 St. Charles Rock Road, Bridgeton, Missouri, 63044; from 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M., November 8th, 2021 through November 19th, 2021.

CONSTRUCTION INSPECTOR

Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited university in Architecture, Mechanical or Civil Engineering and familiarity with general building construction.

Five (5) years of experience in the construction industry, preferably, as a craftsman of one (1) or more trades applicable to general building construction may be substituted for a degree. At least three (3) years of this experience must be in construction inspection. Starting Salary $55,000 Annually. Position will be opened until filled. Apply via our website www.slha.org. A Drug Free Work Place/EOE.

MAINTENANCE TECHNICIANS NEEDED

$20-$21/per hour visit: www.beyondhousing.org

COORDINATOR – INSURANCE UNDERWRITING –OPERATIONS (3 OPENINGS)

Perform a variety of entry and analytic processes inherent in the underwriting of prospective and current Excess Workers’ Compensation business and policy life cycle maintenance thereafter. Work performed adheres to established process procedures, guidelines, and customer service standards set by the organization with flexibility allowed in completion of tasks. To apply, please visit: https://www. safetynational.com/careers-page/

COORDINATOR – INSURANCE UNDERWRITING – TECHNICAL OPERATIONS

Responsible for planning, organizing, user acceptance testing, and documenting end users processes for the policy administration systems, various software applications, and continually aiding in the assessment and improvement of all Insurance Underwriting system support. To apply, please visit: https://www.safetynational. com/careers-page/

GUARDIAN AD LITEM –ORDER OF PROTECTION

Family Court of St. Louis County is seeking an attorney to serve as guardian ad litem in the Family Court to handle OP matters. A Guardian-ad-litem who serves the Court must commit to serve on various Family Court cases on an as needed basis for a monthly retainer to be paid by public funds. The current retainer is in the amount of $2,035.00 per month. . MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Graduation from an accredited law school, possession of a current license to practice law in the State of Missouri, at least three (3) years of trial experience, preferably in juvenile, family, or criminal law (additional years of trial experience and guardian ad litem experience are highly preferred), and completion of necessary guardian ad litem training as required by the Supreme Court of Missouri. Note: This position is subject to continued availability of funding.

To apply, please send a current resume, along with a cover letter, to the following address (application materials must be postmarked by November 5, 2021): Attn: Human Resources Department, Family Court of St. Louis County, 105 S. Central Ave., Clayton, MO 63105. EOE. Please contact the Human Resources Department at 615-4471 (voice) or RelayMo 711 or 800-735-2966 if you need any accommodations in the application process, or if you would like this posting in an alternative form.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

O’FALLON FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT

The O’Fallon Fire Protection District is currently seeking qualified applicants for the position of Executive Administrative Assistant. Applicant’s preferred minimum qualifications include: minimum 5 years prior related work experience; BA or BS in human resources, business administration, accounting or related field; working knowledge of personnel benefits and/or HR administrative functions; strong knowledge base of financial and accounting principles. Resumes are now being accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., through November 12, 2021 at 4:00 p.m. CST. Resumes may be submitted in person or by mail to: O’Fallon Fire Protection District, 111 Laura K Drive, O’Fallon, MO 63366. The O’Fallon Fire Protection District is not responsible for any correspondence or mail that is lost or misdirected, or received after November 12, 2021, 4:00p.m. CST.

The O’Fallon Fire Protection District is an Equal Opportunity Employer

HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER

Professional position, responsible for building, facilitating and supporting employee relations, engagement and communications within the company, reporting to the Director of HR Operations.

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

ASSISTANT – CLAIMS – MAIL OPERATIONS

Responsible for various tasks related to: categorizing and imaging incoming mail, processing corporate mail, and storage duties.

To apply, please visit: https:// www.safetynational.com/ careers-page/ An Equal Opportunity Employer

MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS STRATEGIST

The Marketing Communications Strategist is responsible for developing strategic plans to execute brand messaging that inspires prospective audiences to engage with and learn more about WashU’s inclusive, equitable community that is nurturing and intellectually rigorous. The strategist creates and/or oversees the development of brand copy and content including, but not limited to, brochures, print, emails, direct mail, website, and social media, and digital advertising. The strategist also works with the Director of Marketing & Communications to oversee the development of creative concepts that identify and utilize smart solutions to marketing problems. In addition, the strategist works with Marketing Communications team members in Admissions & Aid and throughout the undergraduate divisions to enhance Washington University’s brand awareness and reputation in key markets and drive success of program objectives. To view the full job description and to apply visit jobs. wustl.edu and enter job JR62832.

Bachelor’s in Management, 2 yrs exp. In job offered/ Accountant.

Resume: Midwest Geriatric Management LLC, 477 N. Lindbergh Blvd, Ste 310, St Louis, MO 63141

SENIOR COUNSEL

Under the direction of the senior attorney(s), responsible for assisting senior attorney(s)’ management of business transactional support, information security related issues, claims and select corporate related litigation, and other legal affairs of the Company. To apply, please visit: https://www.safetynational.com/ careers-page/

MANAGER – QUALITY CONTROL

Reports to the Vice President of Account Services and serves as the department’s top expert on product quality; to include all primary workers’ compensation, commercial auto, general liability and excess liability policies, transactions, premium audits and other documents that are distributed to our customer base. They will be responsible for ensuring our products consistently produce a positive perception of our company. They will also provide support and analysis for service provided to customers.

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

COORDINATOR – INFORMATION SERVICES – EDI OPERATIONS

Under minimal supervision, the Coordinator – EDI Operations role is accountable for quality and analysis of production EDI data. This position partners with assigned business units and helps to provide accurate data to support the best possible business decisions. The ideal EDI Operations Coordinator will identify and drive continuous improvements in the quality and availability of EDI data. To apply, please visit: https://www. safetynational.com/careers-page/

JANITORIAL - HIRING

Full & Part-Time positions, 3 Shifts Background check. Steady work history preferred. Apply at 314 N. Jefferson at Olive. M - F, 9A to 5P. Must have two forms of I.D.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Firefighter/Paramedic

North County Fire & Rescue Fire Protectiom District received a Federal Grant (SAFER) for a three (3) year period. The district still has thirteen (13) months remaining and is seeking a candidate to fulfill the remaining time left on the grant, for the position of listed below. Prior to filling out job application please visit our website: NOCOFR.com for Candidate Guidelines.

Interested candidates must complete an “Application for Employment Form” at the Fire District’s Headquarters located at 9933 Diamond Drive St. Louis Missouri 63137. Application forms will be available and accepted from 08:00 AM (CST) to 4:00 PM (CST) Monday through Friday, November8, 2021, through November 12, 2021.

SENIOR PRICING ACTUARY

Responsible for providing Pricing Analysis and Technical Support for Direct Lines of Business: Workers Compensation, Commercial Auto, General Liability and Umbrella Liability on a primary, large deductible and excess basis.To apply, please visit: https://www.safetynational. com/careers-page/

HUMAN RESOURCES ANALYST

Provide analysis support to the Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO). Will be involved in project in the Human Resources department and across multiple departments. To apply, please visit: https:// www.safetynational.com/ careers-page/

SENIOR DATA ANALYST

This is an experienced professional position that contributes to the accomplishment of I.S. practices and objectives that will achieve business goals and objectives. Responsible for the analysis of database development efforts across all teams based upon the needs of the end users. Will work with Data Architects, Data Engineers, and BI Analysts to help guide all data development efforts to meet the needs of our users. Requires expert SQL knowledge and strong understanding of relational databases. Coaching and mentoring of less experienced Data Analysts is to be expected. To apply, please visit: https://www.safetynational.com/ careers-page/

COORDINATOR

–LEGAL OPERATIONS

To handle the necessary administrative and organizational needs of the Legal Department in maintaining regulatory compliance, to support the Company’s operations and operational needs and to facilitate the transaction of business of the Legal Department and the various departments of the Company under the direction of Manager – Legal Operations.

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

St. LouiS american Bids & Public Notices St. LouiS

LOUIS AMERICAN

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

Paric Corporation is seeking proposals for the following project: 1717 Olive Street, St. Louis.

The project consists of renovating the Historic recognized Butler Building located on 1717 Olive Street. St Louis, MO into 384 units including amenity spaces such as a pool, walking track, fitness room and community areas. The project also includes an enclosed parking garage and retail spaces.

Fire Sprinkler System, Plumbing, HVAC and Electrical packages are design build and have already been awarded.

Bids for all remaining scopes of work, except finishes, will be due on November 16, 2021 at 2:00pm. Refer to the Bid Manual included in the documents for all design information. Work Packages will be created and issued by addendum. Bid forms and initialed Work Packages must be submitted with your proposal.

A walk thru / Pre-Bid Meeting will be held on site October 26, 2021 @ 9:00am Please send questions to Ruben Guzman at rmguzman@paric. com or Terry Turnbeaugh at tlturnbeaugh@paric. com. No questions are to be submitted directly to the design team. All questions to be submitted by end of day November 9th.

Diversity requirements for this project will comply with business and workforce participation as mandated by the latest diversity requirements included in the Bid Manual.

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

PARIC CORPORATION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

LETTING NO. 8738

REPLACEMENT OF EMERGENCY GENERATORS 50 AND 80

At St. Louis Lambert International Airport Sealed proposals will be received by the Board of Public Service in Room 301 City Hall, 1200 Market Street, St. Louis, Mo. Until 1:45 PM, CT, on Tuesday, December 14, 2021, then publicly opened and read in room 325. Plans and Specifications may be examined on the Board of Public Service website http://www.stl-bps.org (BPS On Line Plan Room) and may be purchased directly through the BPS website from INDOX Services at cost plus shipping. No refunds will be made.

Bidders shall comply with all applicable City, State and Federal laws (including MBE/WBE policies). Mandatory pre-bid meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 16, 2021, at 1:30 PM in the Ozark Conference Room at the Airport Office Building, 11495 Navaid Rd., Bridgeton, MO 63044.

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

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District Requests for Quotes, Bids and Proposals are posted online for public download. Please navigate to www.msdprojectclear.org > Doing Business With Us > View Non-Capital Bids (commodities and services) or >Visit Planroom (capital construction bids)

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

NORMANDY SCHOOLS COLLABORATIVE INTERIOR IMPROVEMENTS

CENTRAL & EAST HALLS – NORMANDY HIGH SCHOOL REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONSGENERAL CONTRACTOR

Normandy Schools Collaborative (NSC) is conducting a prequalification process for General Contractors seeking to participate in competitive bidding to construct Prop. V funded projects. NSC will be accepting qualifications from General Contractors interested in participating in bidding the future improvements at Central and East Halls on the Normandy High School campus. The entire Request for Qualifications (RFQ) package will be made available on Monday, October 25, 2021 by contacting KAI via email at khuntington@kai-db. com. This Prop. V funded project has an estimated construction value of approximately $11M. Construction shall be phased over 10 months starting in January 2022. The project will include Business and Work-Force Diversity Goals. For additional details about this RFQ, or to schedule an information session, please contact KAI via email at khuntington@kai-db.com

PORTABLE RESTROOM SERVICE

Great Rivers Greenway is seeking Portable Restroom Service. Go to www.greatriversgreenway. org/jobs-bids and submit by November 18, 2021.

INVITATION TO BID

ST. LOUIS COUNTY CHILDREN’S SERVICE FUND

The St. Louis County Children’s Service Fund (CSF) is seeking proposals from talented and uniquely qualified project manager(s) to coordinate a large-scale internal project on diversity, equity, and inclusion. The project management consultant(s) will be responsible for coordinating and overseeing potentially multiple collaborators for the wide-ranging equity initiative. Bid documents are available https://bit.ly/3sfVct8 bid #1406. Bids are due by November 15, 2021, at 2 PM.

NORMANDY SCHOOLS COLLABORATIVE INTERIOR IMPROVEMENTS

CENTRAL & EAST HALLS –NORMANDY HIGH SCHOOL REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Normandy Schools Collaborative (NSC) will be accepting sealed bids from Pre-Qualified General Contractor (GC) for the construction of the Interior Improvements Central & East Halls at Normandy High School. The entire bid package will be available electronically on Monday, November 8, 2021 by contacting TR,i Architects, via email at matt.miller@triarchitects.com. Estimated Construction Value is $11M. The project includes Business and Workforce Diversity Goals. Two (2) optional PreBid Informational Meetings will be held: Tuesday, November 9, 2021 @ 7:30 am (CST); and Friday, November 12, 2021 @ 11:00 am (CST). At these meetings, subcontractors, suppliers, and vendors will receive project information and meet NSC certified Pre-Qualified GCs. Only NSC certified Pre-Qualified GCs are eligible to submit GC bids. All subcontractors, suppliers and vendors are eligible to submit proposals to NSC certified Pre-Qualified GCs. To download the entire Advertisement for Bids please visit: www.normandysc.org or contact Matt Miller, with TR,i Architects, at matt.miller@triarchitects.com

2018 ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY

Great Rivers Greenway is seeking consulting services to update its 2018 Engagement Strategy. Go to www.greatriversgreenway. org/jobs-bids and submit by December 03, 2021

FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE CONSULTANT

Great Rivers Greenway is seeking RFQs for a Federal Legislative Consultant. Go to www.greatriversgreenway. org/jobs-bids and submit by November 24, 2021

BID NOTICE

Responses for St. Louis Community College on IFB B0004143 for Hylex Flex Room Supplies will be received until 3:00 PM (CST) on November 23, 2021. Go to https://stlcc.bonfirehub.com for bid document and submission.

BID NOTICE

Responses for St. Louis Community College on IFB B0004137 for Aviation Sheet Metal Components will be received until 3:00 PM (CST) on November 18, 2021. Go to https://stlcc.bonfirehub.com for bid document and submission.

NORMANDY SCHOOLS COLLABORATIVE ASBESTOS ABATEMENTCENTRAL & EAST HALLS – NORMANDY HIGH SCHOOL REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Normandy Schools Collaborative (NSC) will be accepting sealed Asbestos Abatement Bids for the removal of asbestos-containing materials from Central & East Halls at Normandy High School. The entire bid package will be available electronically on Monday, November 1, 2021 by contacting PSI, via email at greg. chambliss@intertek.com. The Scope of Work for East Hall is the removal and disposal of approximately 17,000 SF of Floor Tile and Mastic and 1,100 LF of Pipe and Pipe Fitting Insulation and the Scope of Work for Central Hall is the removal and disposal of approximately 23,640 SF of Ceiling Tile Adhesive and 1,575 LF of Pipe and Pipe Fitting Insulation. The project includes Business and Workforce Diversity Goals. A mandatory Pre-Bid Conference and Walk-thru is scheduled for Tuesday, November 9, 2021 at 4:00 PM (CST). To download the entire Advertisement for Bids please visit: www.normandysc.org or contact Greg Chambliss, with PSI at greg.chambliss@intertek.com

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

Paric Corporation is seeking proposals for the following project: MU Teaching Hospital Ct Replacement for The University of Missouri.

The scope of work includes but is not limited to Demo, Casework, Drywall Finishes, Fire Protection, Plumbing, HVAC and Electrical.

This project has a diversity participation goal of 10% MBE and 10% combined WBE, DBE, Veteran Owned Business and 3% SDVE.

Bids for this project are due on November 10, at 3:00 p.m. For any questions or would like to find out more detailed information on this opportunity, please contact John Davis at 314-704-6075 or jcdavis@paric.com

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

PARIC CORPORATION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

MWBE/DBE HAPPY HOUR

SITE Improvement Association is hosting a Happy Hour for Qualified and Certified M/ WBE and DBE contractors

The Happy Hour will be held 4:00-6:00 PM Wednesday, November 10, 2021 Ferguson Brewing Company 418 S. Florissant Rd. Ferguson, MO 63135

Drinks and Appetizers will be provided SITE Improvement Association supports Eastern Missouri Contractors in seven divisions, including: Highway/Bridge, Concrete, Asphalt, Earthmoving, Sewer/Utility, Landscaping, and Specialty Attendance is FREE, however you must Register at Leah@sitestl.org If you have any questions or concerns, or need any additional information, you can call Chris Davis at (314) 966-2950.

SEALED BIDS

Bids for Replace Roof, Benton Hall, Nevada Habilitation Center, Nevada, MO Project No. M2115-01 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, December 2, 2021. For specific project information and ordering plans, go to: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities

DELMAR DIVINE TENANT IMPROVEMENTS

Vanstar Construction is accepting subcontractor proposals to construct tenant build outs (Deli, pharmacy, credit union, financial advisor, Mental Health, Charity CFO, Childcare) at 5501 Delmar Blvd. Primary scope: doors, casework, glass, drywall, paint, flooring, HVAC, sprinkler, electrical, plumbing. Contact Erin ehugeback@vanstarconstruction. com / 314-770-2400 for more info. This project has MBE/WBE business goals per the Mayor’s executive order.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL:

SSD 101-22:

Roof Replacement at North County Technical High School and Litzsinger School. Bidding specifications will be available from RMT Roofing and Waterproofing Consultants at the Mandatory Pre-bid meeting to be held at North Technical High School, 1700 Derhake Road, Florissant, MO 63033 on November 17, 2021 at 10:00 AM.

SEALED BIDS

Bids for Missouri State Highway Patrol General Headquarters Annex 2nd Floor R e n o v a t i o n , P r o j e c t N o . R2115-01, will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1 : 3 0 P M , 11/18/2021 via MissouriBUYS. Bidders must be registered t o b i d . F o r specific project information, go to: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities

A $50.00 refundable deposit made out to Special School District will be required for the bidding specs. Deposits to be returned to the non-winning bidders after bid opening.

Bids are due at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, November 30, 2021 at Special School District Purchasing Department, 12110 Clayton Road, St. Louis, MO 63131 ATTN: Mike Schwartz

3 goals.

LouiS american Career Center

MISSOURI HISTORICAL SOCIETY REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP)

The Missouri Historical Society is seeking RFP’s for a graphic designer. The designer will lay out and design the cover for a short book on the history of the St. Louis Zoo Museum District.

For details, please contact Lauren Mitchell, Director of Publications, by email at LMitchell@mohistory.

The Missouri Public Service Commission is seeking a self-directed, detail-oriented individual to join our Information Services team as a systems administrator. Annual salary range for a Systems Administration Technician is $48,000 - $50,025. For complete details and to apply, please visit https://mocareers.mo.gov or https://psc.mo.gov/General/ Career Opportunities

“An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V”

CASE MANAGER

Covenant House Missouri (CHMO) is a non-forprofit organization that welcomes youth who are runaway, at-risk or experiencing homelessness.

CHMO is looking for a Case Manager, responsible for providing goaloriented support and individualized direct care and supervision of program youth.

CHMO opportunities can be found on our website: https://www. covenanthousemo.org/ workforchmo

CUSTOMER ACCOUNTS SPECIALIST

Customer Accounts Specialist. Bachelor’s in Business and Financial Management. Resume: ITF Logistics Group LLC., 11990 Missouri Bottom Rd., Hazelwood, MO 63042

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE:

Advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, imitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial\status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.“We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.”

Call Angelita Houston at 314-289-5430 or email ahouston@stlamerican.com to place your ads today!

money, are in committed monogamous relationships, and like to “turn up” (party) every now and then.

“You ain’t never gone hear me getting out of my character for a song,” he said. “Imma regular dude who wants to do good and have a family. I’m not tryna be out here on no extra s**t, but at the same time sometimes, I wanna turn up and pop my s**t.”

He first got into rapping and music at McCluer North High School alongside his childhood friends, Jarrod “JRod” Doyle, a superproducer for K Camp, and Josh “Qartier Q” Howard, an on-the-rise local rapper. The trio were in his basement one day and pondered on how they could make music. They learned about the audio editing software Audacity, bought a cheap microphone from Radio Shack and immediately started covering popular songs including Roscoe Dash’s “All The Way Turnt Up,” and Waka Flocka’s “O Let’s Do It.”

Things changed for Malcolm when he went away for college at Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO). He didn’t take music as seriously because his studies and other extracurricular activities took up most of his time.

A couple of years after graduating from SEMO, he decided to take it seriously after close friends encouraged him to release some music. He uploaded songs to Soundcloud that did well but knew he didn’t want just to be another “Soundcloud rapper.”

At that moment, he decided to release a full project and has since been recording. Now he’s working on his next body of work, creative collaborations with close friends, including vlogs and his first performance.

“You ain’t never gone hear me getting out of my

ter for a song. Imma regular dude who wants to do good and have a family.” - MalcolmXavier

He also has visuals on the way and a “Tiny Desk”-esque performance he recorded in the summer being released soon.

With a diverse city like St. Louis, there’s something to listen to for everyone. No rapper is the same here. With his music, Malcolm wants listeners to know he can not only rap, but he also knows how to make a good song.

“It’s people that can rap all day long. That doesn’t mean you’re gonna listen to their song,” he said. “I’m tryna find that connection of not sacrificing any of the artistic or wordsmithship of it but still make it fun and digestible for people to understand.”

MalcolmXavier’s music is available on streaming platforms.

October 3 through January 9, 2022 Visit the Information Desks or metrotix.com to

Art Along the Rivers: A Bicentennial Celebration explores artwork spanning over 1,000 years from St. Louis and surrounding areas. View Ken Light’s must-see photograph, Race Wall, St. Louis, Missouri, which documents one of St. Louis’ most important community-based art projects. This “Wall of Respect” was part of a national urban mural movement celebrating African American achievement and determination.

Photo courstesy of MalcolmXavier

charac-

Continued strong community support helps enable the mission of the St. Louis American Foundation

Still going strong at year 34

Despite an ongoing historic pandemic, we are pleased to celebrate the 34th anniversary of the St. Louis American’s Salute to Excellence in Education virtually again this year with the expectation we will return in person next fall. The event began in 1988 as a small, community-focused banquet, honoring multiple area achievers, with a few hundred attendees. We handed out some framed certificates to the awardees, had a few speeches, donated the modest dollars from the net proceeds to the community, and for the most part everyone had a “lovely evening.”

Today, tremendous support from the community and multiple higher education institutions has enabled this program to evolve and grow into an established uplifting community institution. The event is one of the largest celebratory awards events in the entire St. Louis region – much, much more than just a “lovely evening.”

In 1994, we created the St. Louis American Foundation, a 501c3 organization, with a primary focus on urban education. Fortunately, the St. Louis community, including public, private and non-profit sector organizations, along with some generous individuals, has embraced our mission: celebrating outstanding individual educators, while providing much-needed funding for high-achieving students with financial needs to reach their potential.

Since its inception (including pro-

Donald

M. Suggs President St. Louis American Foundation

ceeds from this year’s event), the Foundation and its education partners have made possible the granting of more than $12 million for local scholarships and community grants, including an astounding $2.9 million from this year alone. We are grateful and appreciative to have substantial scholarships this year from HarrisStowe State University, Missouri State University, Southeast Missouri State University, St. Louis Community College, University of MissouriColumbia, Webster University, Maryville University, Fontbonne University, Goldfarb School of Nursing, Saint Louis University, and the University of Missouri St. Louis, along with Anheuser-Busch.

We’re also appreciative of our Foundation’s collaboration with the Deaconess Foundation and Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis that provides $125,000 worth of scholarships, each year, for students interested in pursuing careers in nursing but lack the financial resources to do so.

In addition, we are proud that in response to a need we started an

innovated Newspaper In Education (NIE) program, with an emphasis on STEM education, in 2012. Our NIE program has repeatedly received first place national honors from both the Missouri Press Association and the National Newspaper Association. This recognition is heartening because this program aligns with our core values that include empowering educators to reach our children – opening their minds to STEM learning – while they are young. This classroom tool has demonstrated value in preparing students in underserved communities to achieve academically. We intend to continue to extend our reach, which is currently 7,000 elementary students in more than 300 classrooms.

As we reflect on our 34th year oif the Education Salute, we are proud that we now produce more than just a celebratory evening. We very much intend our efforts in the future, forging new partnerships and broadening our existing community partnerships, in the interest of better educational outcomes and the creation of more opportunities for our youth.

We want to congratulate heartily this year’s awardees and scholarship recipients and thank our dedicated staff, Salute volunteers, as well as our generous sponsors, particularly those that have increased their already generous contributions. We’d also like to thank our entire Gala committee.

Finally, on behalf of my colleagues at the St. Louis American Foundation, I want to thank all who are doing something positive to improve the lives of more of our young people.

The 2021 Salute to Excellence awardees

Lifetime Achiever in Education

Arthur R. Culver Superintendent, East St. Louis School District 189

Stellar Performer in Education

Gwendolyn W. Diggs,

Ed.D, VP of Head Start/ Early Head Start Urban League of Metrolpolitan STL

Bayer School of Excellence

James Avant Elementary School

SEMO Counselor of the Year

Yolanda C. Curry Counselor, St. Charles West High Schoo

Howard E. Fields III, Ph.D

Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources, Kirkwood School District

Brian M. Gant, Ed.D

Assistant Professor of Cybersecurity,

Excellence in Education Awards

Maryville University, John E. Simon School of Business

Lynn R. Hinton, M.Ed 8th Grade English Language Arts, Parkway Northeast Middle School

St. LouiS AmericAn the

One of the largest weekly newspapers in Missouri 60,000 copies – CAC audited 100% independently owned & operated Continuously published, without interruption since its founding in 1928

Nathan B. Young (1894–1993) – Founder

N.A. Sweets (1901–1988) – Publisher Emeritus

Bennie G. Rogers – (1914–2000) Executive Editor Emeritus

Administration

Donald M. Suggs –

Publisher & Executive Editor

Kevin Jones – Sr. Vice Pres. & COO

Dina M. Suggs – Sr. Vice Pres.

Robin Britt – Controller

Mary Easter – Receptionist

Cathy Sewell – NIE Mgr.

Editorial

Alvin A. Reid – City Editor

Wiley Price – Photojournalist

Earl Austin Jr. – Sports Editor

Sylvestor Brown Jr. –

Deaconess COVID Fellow

Karen Robinson-Jacobs –

Type Investigations/Report for America Business Reporter

Dana Rieck – News Reporter

Danielle Brown – Community Reporter

Sophie Hurwitz – News Reporter

JoAnn Weaver – Health Reporter

Ashley Trawick – Copy Editor

Sales/Marketing

Pamela Simmons – Sr. Acct. Exec.

Angelita F. Houston –Classified Manager

Jessica Jones – Acct. Exec.

Janice Brown – Acct. Exec.

Production

Mike Terhaar – Art Director

Melvin Moore – Graphic Designer

Digital

Jonathan Strong, Ed.S Pricipal, Meramec Elementary, St. Louis Public Schools

Ronda L. Wallace, Ed.D Principal, North Technical High School

Dawn M. Suggs – Digital Special Projects Director

James LeBine – Multimedia Specialist

Felicia Pearson – Operations Support

Isaiah Peters – Assistant Digital Intern

The St. Louis American 2315 Pine Street

St. Louis, MO 63108 314-533-8000

Fax: 314-533-2332 www.stlamerican.com

Excellence in Education Awardee

Howard E Fields III says

Dr. Howard E. Fields III currently serves as an Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources for Kirkwood School District. He is an international speaker and presenter and the author of the new book ‘How to Achieve Educational Equity.’

‘make the most of your opportunities’

By Sophie Hurwitz

The St. Louis American

Dr. Howard E. Fields III currently serves as an Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources for Kirkwood School District. He is an international speaker and presenter and the author of the new book How to Achieve Educational Equity, co-founder of Black Males in Education St. Louis (BMESTL) and EduOpenings.com. As an educational thought leader, he focuses on “remaining student-centered as well as equity-focused.”

Fields credits his success to his parents, Howard and Lynnette. His father, Howard Fields, “made me understand at a young age that nothing was owed to me, and if you do not work, you do not “eat.” Growing up in Pagedale, he provided countless lived experiences that placed an emphasis on making the most of your opportunities.”

And his mother, Lynnette, is, Fields said, “the most cerebral person” he has ever met. “It could be a complex academic matter, or a dynamic that requires

the highest level of “street smarts”: her time in Peoria, Illinois, prepared her to be the “glue” for not only her kids, but countless others.”

He was recognized as the 2020 National Elementary Distinguished Principal from Missouri.

Dr. Fields started his career in urban education, serving as a coach, teacher, assistant principal, and principal. In his first year as a principal, he was responsible for navigating what would become known as the Ferguson Unrest. Though the school was located down the street from where Michael Brown Jr. was shot and killed by a police officer, Dr. Fields’ leadership was a driving factor in increasing his school’s Annual Performance Report (APR) that year by 200%. This was among the highest growth of any North St. Louis County public elementary school in 2015.

by the Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals (MAESP) in 2016 with the Exemplary New Principal Award. In 2017, he was internationally recognized by the Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations for the innovativeness of his research. Accompanying his 132-page dissertation was a feature-length documentary on the topic of Missouri’s Student Transfer Law. This law forced unaccredited school districts to pay the tuition and transportation costs for students who decided to transfer from their home district to attend an accredited school district in the same or adjoining district.

eign languages.

In 2018, Dr. Fields expanded his involvement in shaping the future of the education field by becoming an adjunct professor at Harris-Stowe State University. Then, in 2019, he co-founded the organization Black Males in Education St. Louis (BMESTL) to support, develop, connect, mentor, and empower current and future educators of color. Later that year, he was inducted into the first class of the Mehlville School District Alumni Hall of Fame.

As a result, Dr. Fields was recognized

After nine years in urban education, Dr. Fields transitioned to a suburban school district in 2017. Dr. Fields expanded elective course options for sixth-grade students to include computer science, drama, art and design, and for-

In February of 2020, Dr. Fields co-founded the inaugural State of Black Educators Symposium (#SBE20), an event created to increase the recruiting, support, mentoring, and development of Black educators. With over 1,400 in-person registrants and an abundance of support from schools, universities, nonprofits, and businesses, The State of Black Educators Symposium returned in 2021 in a virtual format.

Dr. Fields plans to continue to advocate for the well-being of students and staff while also empowering them to be their authentic selves.

Howard E Fields III, Ph.D.

Photo courtesy of Dr. Howard E. Fields III

Excellence in Education Awardee

Dr. Brian M. Gant is an accomplished information technology, cybersecurity, and critical infrastructure educator and researcher. Currently, Gant is serving as an assistant professor of cybersecurity for the Maryville University Simon School of Business.

Brian M. Gant wants Maryville students to ‘think abstractly’

By Sophie Hurwitz

The

St. Louis American

Dr. Brian M. Gant is an accomplished information technology, cybersecurity, and critical infrastructure educator and researcher. Currently serving as an Assistant Professor of Cybersecurity for the Maryville University Simon School of Business, Dr. Gant brings over 20 years of federal government and teaching experience into his practice. As a graduate of Maryville, he continues to serve in various capacities across campus. Dr. Gant has dedicated himself to practical instruction and allowing his students to think abstractly about multi-layered approaches to complex problems. His

hands-on approach to instruction gives his students options to learn at different levels and communicate with each other as future cybersecurity leaders.

“If I can carry one ounce of impact with my students at Maryville University similarly to what my mother and aunt provided while with SLPS, then I will be able to sleep well at night,” Gant said. “My success is directly attributed to these phenomenal women.”

Dr. Gant has given presentations to government

Brian M. Gant, Ed.D

and private industry leaders, participated in cyber research, and analyzed real-world case studies concerning cybersecurity issues. His passion is his students, especially those from underserved backgrounds, because he said he believes in the power of access and education to better their lives. As a student at Maryville, he has served as an advisor to the Men of Color Brotherhood (MOC), Maryville Cyber Association (MCA), and board member of the

n “As an alumnus of Maryville and now faculty member, I have been drawn to the commitment of student-first led instruction and activities.”

– Dr. Brian M. Gant

Athletics Advisory Council.

“As an alumnus of Maryville and now faculty member, I have been drawn to the commitment of student-first led instruction and activities,” Gant said.

Photo courtesy of Dr. Brian M. Gant

Excellence in Education Awardee

Lynn R. Hinton serves her students, and her peers

Lynn Hinton poses with her sons. Hinton’s career as an educator spans over 20 years. Currently, she is an 8th grade English Language Arts teacher with the Parkway School District at Northeast Middle School.

By Sophie Hurwitz

The

St. Louis American

Lynn Hinton’s career as an educator expands over 20 years. Currently, Hinton is an 8th grade English Language Arts teacher with the Parkway School District at Northeast Middle School. Her unwavering dedication to teaching students the fundamental importance of mastering reading, writing, and English language comprehension does not end once the dismissal bell rings. Hinton extends her assistance and time after hours to ensure students have every opportunity for academic success by making herself accessible. Additionally,

Hinton supports her fellow educators by serving as the school’s N.E.A. (National Education Association) Building Representative. In this role, Hinton advocates on behalf of the educators at Northeast Middle School regarding various policies and concerns. Hinton serves as the liaison and says her goal is to find solutions that yield a work environment that encourages professional growth, safety, and goal attainment.

After school, Hinton also

Lynn R. Hinton, M.Ed.

supports her students by serving as a volunteer for the Parkway S.T.E.P. Team. Hinton weekly monitors their academics to ensure they are held accountable for maintaining an acceptable GPA to balance their academics and extracurriculars.

Hinton serves as the Correspondence Secretary for the National Association of University Women, and often volunteers at a local food bank. She would like to

dedicate this award to her mother, “Special School District educator, mentor, and best friend Sylvia Selvey,” who passed away two years ago

“I was a part-time, sometimes longterm substitute teacher for the Special School District of St. Louis County for years even after receiving my business degree,” Hinton said. “My mom saw something in me and continued to encourage me to become an educator. After much deliberation and reflection, I decided to take my mom’s advice and have never looked back. Thank you, mom.”

Photo courtesy of Lynn R. Hinton

Excellence in Education Awardee

Jonathan Strong follows family path to education career

Jonathan Strong, principal of Meramec Elementary in St. Louis Public Schools, says his purpose is to be a steward for learning.

By Sophie Hurwitz

The St. Louis American

Jonathan Strong is the principal of Meramec Elementary in St. Louis Public Schools. His philosophy for education can be summed up in one word: service. He said he believes it is his purpose to serve as a steward for learning and growth. His passion for education has led him to the St. Louis Public School District to serve as Meramec Elementary’s principal. Before St. Louis Public Schools, he served as an assistant principal in the Maplewood-Richmond Heights School District, and as a literacy coach Title 1 reading instructor, and fourth-grade teacher at Confluence Academy. Additionally, he taught at

Thurgood Marshall Academy.

“Education has always been my chosen career path,” Strong said. It’s also a family legacy:

“My grandmother was a school teacher in Natchez, Mississippi and my mother taught special education for St. Louis Public Schools for over 25 years.”

He also credits other educators with his growth as an educator and administrator.

Strong said. “They all instilled in me the same message: appreciate your staff and do it for the children. I took their lessons and messages to heart. In return, I do my best to give my all to Meramec Elementary, St. Louis Public Schools, and the city of St. Louis.”

Jonathan Strong Ed.S

“I was blessed to be supported and mentored by many strong educators like Charles and Gloria Shelton and Dr. Ian Buchanon, just to name a few,”

Strong holds a B.A. in Elementary Education from Alabama A&M University, an M.A. in Reading, and an Educational Specialist in School Leadership degree from Webster University.

Committed to shaping the gen-

erations that follow him, he serves as a mentor for young men. He works with various nonprofits dedicated to helping the youth and families of St. Louis. His passion for St. Louis continues to direct his path of service through education for the community that raised, nurtured, and led him to be the man he is today.

“I would be remiss if I did not honor my family and friends, the men of Omega Psi Phi, Fraternity, Inc., the teachers and staff of Meramec Elementary (SLPS) and most importantly my wife Morgan,” Strong said. “It is their influence and support that propels me to push the boundaries and work to provide an educational environment that [the] students and families of St. Louis deserve.

Photo courtesy of Jonathan Strong

Excellence in Education Awardee

Dr. Ronda Wallace serves as the principal of North Technical High School and has 23 years of experience in education at all levels.

Dr. Ronda Wallace a ‘risk taker’ in helping students grow

By Sophie Hurwitz

The St. Louis American

Dr. Ronda Wallace serves as the principal of North Technical High. With 23 years of experience in education at all levels, Dr. Wallace earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Texas Southern University, a Master of Arts degree in Counseling from Prairie View A&M University, an Educational Specialist degree in Administration and a Doctorate of Education in Educational Administration from Lindenwood University.

“Coming from a family of educators, I grew up stating strongly that I would never go into the field of education,” Wallace said. Then, watching her mom, a head start educator, work with the chil-

dren in her Kirkwood neighborhood began to change her mind.

“I became interested in teaching our neighborhood kids to be successful and productive,” Wallace said. “When you show children that you genuinely care, the process of learning begins, and their creative exploratory minds take them on academic journeys everywhere!”

Previously, Dr. Wallace has served as Assistant Principal at Normandy Middle School and in many educational and leadership capacities within the Houston Independent School District in Houston, Texas.

Ronda Wallace, Ed.D

She has also taught grades one to eight with a specialty in English and Writing and taught high school students many summers. She is a 2020 recipient of the Titus 2 Foundation Educator Impact Award, 2013 recipient of the Apple for The Teacher Award presented by Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Incorporated Alpha Zeta Chapter, and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

Wallace’s educational philosophy is “give them the opportunity, show them that you care, and watch our future thrive.”

She has four children:

Kharynton, a senior at The Jackson State University, Toni, a sophomore in high school, and twin sons Langston and Landen, who are approaching high school next school year.

“I would like people to know that it takes a village with educators as well,” Wallace said. “You never know who is watching, listening, notetaking and evaluating your work to become better themselves. It takes more than a degree and certification to be great at your career choice, it takes commitment, passion, dedication, and risk taking. As an Instructional Leader, I must be prepared to take risks to ensure the academic success of all students … just call me a risk taker! My motivation for student success runs deep!”

Photo courtesy of Dr. Ronda Wallace

Yolanda Curry uses school counselor role to touch young lives

Counselor of the Year

By Sophie Hurwitz

The St. Louis American

Yolanda Curry didn’t always plan to work with youth.

After getting her degree in journalism from Mizzou, she worked in the field and did communications work for the City of St. Louis.

One day, while sitting in church, Curry’s career path changed.

“I just remember being in a church service on Sunday and hearing about a young person in our community that I didn’t even know, but that young person had committed suicide,” she said. “It just really touched my heart. I just kind of said to myself that I wanted to do something to help other young people not go down that path, even if it was just one individual.”

So, Curry began her quest to find work that allowed her to shape the lives of young people positively. She started a service club at the local school where one of her children attended, teaching students to value service to others.

“I figured if I could get some young people involved in helping other people and perhaps not being so self-focused and self-absorbed, that might, you know, kind of change some perspectives,” she said.

Curry ran the community service club for about nine years. Then, she said, the principal there suggested she would make a great school counselor. This solidified Curry’s path.

She took a job as a paraprofessional educator, then completed her master’s degree to become a counselor. She had found her way of helping young people the way she dreamed.

Curry started her current position as a counselor for St. Charles West High

School in 2019, just before COVID-19 hit.

Now, in the third school year impacted by the pandemic, students need the mental and emotional support services school counselors provide more than ever. She said some students who attended school virtually last year re-learning how to be in school in person.

Others have developed anxiety and depression, she said, that was not present before COVID-19 or have seen their pre-existing problems at home magnified by the stress of these times.

One of Curry’s strategies is what she calls a “one-minute check-in.” She pulls a student aside and asks them a few questions to see how they’re doing.

“That has been helpful because there

have been some kids that I never would have guessed are dealing with certain issues, like anxiety or maybe bullying,” Curry said.

At St. Charles West, Curry also supervises the Multicultural Achievement Council, a group dedicated to promoting college readiness in students of color.

The Multicultural Achievement Council runs the ACT-prep program and gives students opportunities to meet with professionals of color.

Curry said they just completed a fourweek “College Admissions 101” series, where they supplied students of color with specific tools for college.

They just finished a four-week series, Curry said, “called college admissions 101, where I just really tried to provide

Yolanda Curry started her current position as a counselor at St. Charles West High School in 2019, just before COVID19 hit.

students of color with college knowledge.”

In teaching students what they can expect from the college admissions process and from the collegiate environment itself, Curry said she is empowering students to access the tools they need to apply for and attend college. She said throughout all her counseling work so far, she has learned that relationship-building is critical.

“Just taking a few minutes, you know, to get to know students and just let them know that you care about them that you’re there for them really does open them up to being able to receive from you later,” Curry said. “The relationship piece is really important.”

James Avant Elementary named Bayer School of Excellence

School to receive $2,500 and eight new laptops

2021 School of Excellence

By Sophie Hurwitz

The St. Louis American

James Avant Elementary School in East St. Louis School District 189 will receive the Bayer School of Excellence Award at the St. Louis American Foundation’s Salute to Excellence in Education virtual gala on Nov. 5. As elementary schools across the region struggled through the pandemic for the past 18 months, James Avant Elementary has stepped up to the plate.

Through a framework of collaborative, public teaching and learning, with a focus on socio-emotional development, the school has consistently improved student test scores over the past several years without sacrificing student well-being.

In addition to the award, Bayer will provide Avant with eight new laptops and a $2,500 education grant. This year, the foundation and its partners will distribute over $2.9 million in scholarships and grants for area youth and educators.

James Avant Elementary School Principal Quanshanda Nicholson credits the student body’s improved test data along with the staff’s practice of “addressing the whole child looking at social, emotional piece with the student as well as the academic, and being trauma-informed.”

That staff’s training was put to the test like never before as the school coped with COVID-19. School social workers were deployed to students’ homes when they didn’t show up on Zoom, communicating with parents in English and Spanish to ensure everything was alright. School lunches became take-home breakfast, lunch, and weekend boxes.

The focus on social and emotional

learning wasn’t just for the students. Nicholson explained as teachers coped with the pandemic, they were given weekly check-ins, online bonding events, and as much emotional and functional support as the school could muster.

“We would kind of do a … restorative circle just to check in to see where everyone is because we have a lot of teachers that were dealing with a family member that had COVID, [or] even lost parents due to COVID,” she said.

Students began coming back to the building last February. This academic year, for the first time since the beginning of the pandemic, all students are back at James Avant Elementary fulltime. Nicholson said this has been a transition for many students.

“The students were excited to come back,” she said. “We were excited to see the students back in the learning environment. We’ve had students that have come from other districts, so we’re just making those adjustments as we go, but we’re focusing on the [social and emotional learning] because that’s a major piece … We knew we had to focus on that first before learning began to take place.”

COVID rates at the school remain extremely low. Only one case was recorded last week, and the learning continues to grow, as teachers meet weekly to discuss the students’ performance data and figure out how to improve the learning environment. Some strategies they’ve used include “departmentalizing” the first

through fifth grades, meaning a team of two teachers teaches each grade: one for math and science and another for language arts and social studies so that each teacher can play to their strengths.

The school has also implemented a culture of what Nicholson calls “public practice,” where teachers exchange ideas, visit each other’s classrooms, and discuss curriculum ideas across the school rather than being “siloed” in their classrooms.

“We look at the data. We discuss it,” she said. “We create action plans, and we find the areas that we need to target, but beyond all the data and all the innovation, we’re here for our students. That’s our number one focus.”

Principal Quanshanda Nicholson helps a first-grade student at James Avant Elementary School on Tuesday, Oct. 19. James Avant is the 2021 Bayer School of Excellence. She said, “We create action plans, and we find the areas that we need to target.”

Photo by Jennifer Sarti / St. Louis American

2021 Donald M. Suggs Scholarship Recipients

Kathleen Harris

University of Missouri Columbia

Donald M. Suggs Scholar

Kathleen Harris is from O’Fallon, MO and is a May 2021 Summa Cum Laude graduate from Fort Zumwalt West High School. During high school, she was a member of the National Honor Society, Positive Peer Influence, a senior class officer, and the president of Health Occupation Students of America. In addition to those activities, she was a competitive dancer, taught dance classes, worked retail and fulfilled A+ community service requirements. Kathleen enjoys spending time reading and hanging out with friends and family. Kathleen is currently studying Biology and Psychology at the University of Missouri-Columbia and is a member of the school’s Honors College. She is currently conducting undergraduate research as an IMSD Fellow and as a Discovery Research Fellow. Kathleen plans on attending Medical School where she will one day become an Orthopedic Surgeon.

Joshua Nelson

Southeast Missouri State University

Donald M. Suggs Scholar

Joshua Nelson is a freshman at Southeast Missouri State University. Joshua Graduated from St. Charles West High School, earning Magna Cum Laude honors. While in high school, Josh was a three-year varsity basketball player, president of the school’s Minority Achievement Council, and the Huddle Leader for Fellowship of Christian Athletes During his senior year of high school, Josh started his own scholarship fund, Joshua Nelson Leaders in Action Scholarship, by donating $1,000 from his college savings. His story made national news, shown on stations including CNN and NBC Nightly News. His scholarship has grown in strength and now has enough funds to continue for over a decade. Joshua is majoring in Biomedical Science and hopes to pursue a career in Optometry.

Keana Ho

Saint Louis University

Donald M. Suggs Scholar

Keana Ho is a Senior from Eureka, Missouri majoring in Political Science and International Studies with a minor in Spanish. She attended Eureka High School and was interested in attending SLU because of its proximity to home, the great financial aid, and its high quality of education. At SLU, she is in her second year of chairing the Sustainability Committee of the Student Government Association, is currently doing a research internship with her advisor looking into the relationship between homeownership and voter turnout in the St. Louis area, and is an Investor Services Intern at TD Ameritrade. She hopes to enter a career in public policy so she can help people by creating change on a large scale.

Bryanna Jackson

Saint Louis University

Donald M. Suggs Scholar

Bryanna is a senior in the Medical Laboratory Science program at Saint Louis University. She was born and raised in Florissant in Saint Louis County. She graduated from McClure-South Berkeley High School in 2011. While juggling two jobs and being a full-time student, there isn’t much time for hobbies, but when she does get a chance to relax, she enjoys cooking new recipes and reading. Bryanna is beginning to apply for jobs within her degree field and hopes to be working as a Medical Lab Technologist in one of the many labs serving the St. Louis area.

Kaylee

Green

Washington University

Donald M. Suggs Wash U Pledge

Kaylee Green was valedictorian of the Class of 2021 at Jennings Senior High and College Prep Academy. She was president of the National Honor Society, secretary of the student council, and as an outstanding student in STEM courses, she served as secretary of the Girls Excelling in Math

and Science Club. She was a recipient of the Student of the Month award for the Missouri Association of Student Councils. She is a first-generation college student and recipient of the WashU Pledge. Now in her first year at Washington University, Kaylee is planning to major in Biomedical Engineering in the McKelvey School of Engineering,for which she is taking calculus II, intro to biomedical engineering, chemistry, and physics. After spending her first semester getting settled, Kaylee plans to join the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) so she can network with other students and open the door to additional pre-career opportunities.

Amsatou Mbacke

Washington University

Donald M. Suggs Wash U Pledge

Ashley battled through homelessness and depression, while also becoming a parent at a young age. Determined to provide for her family, Ashley worked multiple low-paying jobs to keep her family off the streets. But without training or an education, she wasn’t able to keep up with the cost of living and once again found herself homeless. Ashley realized that only a better education would give her the keys to unlock doors to a successful future. Ashley attended Soldan High School, and after many trials and tribulations, 10 years later, she is on her way to becoming the first member of her family to attend and graduate college, with a major in Business. After graduation, she plans to teach financial literacy to the underprivileged, and she also plans to open several businesses focusing on helping the community and the environment.

Amsatou Mbacke was valedictorian of the Class of 2021 at Soldan International Studies High School in St. Louis, Missouri. She was a participant in the WashU Saturday Scholars program, which allows students from the St. Louis area to learn about human anatomy both in a lecture and lab environment, while interacting with Washington University medical students. Additionally, Amsatou spent time as manager of the basketball team. She is a first-generation college student and a recipient of the QuestBridge College Match Scholarship, as well as being a recipient of the WashU Pledge. As a first-year student in the College of Arts & Sciences, Amsatou is planning to major in biochemistry on the pre-med track. She also intends to expand her interests by taking theater classes and classes in Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies. She is a member of the African Students Association, Black Student Union, and Muslim Students Association.

Ashley Hill

St. Louis Community College

Donald M. Suggs Scholar

Ashley Hill grew up in low-income housing in St. Louis with her parents and five younger siblings. As a teenager,

Lun Nem

Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College

Donald M. Suggs Minority Nursing Student Scholar

Lun Nem is a proud immigrant from Chin State, Burma/Myanmar and has called St. Louis home since 2009. As a first-generation college student, Nem is a graduate of George Washington University in May 2021 with a Bachelor of Science in biology, with a concentration in molecular and cellular. She is passionate about health equity, research, and patient-centered care. While attending an accelerated nursing program at Goldfarb School of Nursing, Nem works as a medical interpreter and advocates for Zomi people to receive accurate, reliable, and informative health information. Additionally, she trains refugee women on how to make jewelry, which provides a source of income. Her goals as a future nurse are advocacy, effective communication, structural competency, and health equity. She hopes to continue to expand ways she can contribute back to the Zomi and greater St. Louis Metropolitan communities.

2021 Salute to Excellence In Education

Anthony McCullough

Maryville University

Donald M. Suggs Scholar

Anthony Mccullough is a graduate of Liberty High School and is currently a nursing major at Maryville University. He plans to get his Bachelor of Science in Nursing and work in the newborn intensive care unit as a nurse. Future education plans include pursuing an advanced degree to become a Nurse Practitioner. In Anthony’s free time, he volunteers for the America Red Cross, coaching the boy’s little league soccer team and spending time with his younger siblings.

Anthony is proud to have graduated high school with Cum Ladue and participated in student government organizations, minority empowerment, and Health Occupations Students of America.

Ashanti McAlister

Maryville University

Donald M. Suggs Scholar

Ashanti McAlister grew up in St. Louis, North County, Missouri, and graduated Cum Laude from Hazelwood West High school. Currently, she is a first-year student and multicultural scholar at Maryville University. Ashanti is studying natural sciences to pursue a career as a Primary Care Physician specializing in Geriatric Medicine. She enjoys reading, yoga, meditating, studying history, creating art, writing novels on amateur sites, and creating content on social media to educate others on various modern issues.

Serinity Merritt

Maryville University

Donald M. Suggs Scholar

Serinity Merritt is a graduate of the Collegiate School of Medicine and Bioscience a currently pursuing a degree in Nursing. Her interest stems from her participation in the Future Health Professionals organization. Inspired by the knowledge she was receiving from the organization, Serinity completed an internship where she completed a medical terminology class, an independent research project, and a shadowing program with nurses. She likes to raise money for the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation and volunteers with the St. Louis City Board of Elections in her free time.

Tristen Moore

Maryville University

Donald M. Suggs Scholar

Tristen Moore is a graduate of Webster Groves High School and was a Magna Cum Laude Honors Student. Currently, he’s a part of the Multicultural Scholars Program at Maryville University. Some of Tristen’s interests are sports and music. Tristen intends to major in Sports and Business Management along with a minor in Photography. He plans on becoming an athletic director of a high school.

MJ Antenor

Webster University

Donald M. Suggs Scholar

MJ Antenor is from Fenton, Missouri and a graduate of Fox C-6 High School. At Fox, MJ was a Dean’s List student and won the Da Vinci Award For Excellence in Engineering. Outside of School, MJ plays Alto Saxophone and was active in Phi Theta Kappa and Fox High School Art Club. MJ plans to major in Games and Game Design while attending Webster and hopes to become a computer programmer or analyst.

Aanihya Beckwith

Webster University

Donald M. Suggs Scholar

Aanihya Beckwith is a St. Louis native and a graduate of Lift for Life Academy. At Lift for Life, Aanihya received the Citizenship Award, Principal’s Honor Roll and the Principal’s Certificate of Accomplishment. Aanihya was also appointed to the Metro Leadership League and participated in the Level Up Saint Louis Youth Conference. At Webster, Aanihya is studying Art with an emphasis in Illustration and plans to pursue a career that embraces creativity, such as Fine Art or Fashion Design and Apparel.

Alinka Bringas

Webster University

Donald M. Suggs Scholar

Alinka Bringas is a St. Louis native and graduated from McKinley Classical Leadership Academy where she was a

member of National Honors Society and the National Art Honor Society. Alinka also played tennis, served as Vice President of Future Business Leaders of America and volunteers as a translator at Trinity United Methodist Church. Now at Webster, Alinka is studying Business Administration and plans to pursue a career as a business executive.

Theodore Dang

Webster University

Donald M. Suggs Scholar

Theodore Dang is a St. Louis native and a graduate of McKinley Classical Leadership Academy. At McKinley, Theodore was active in Chess Club, Model UN, cross country and tennis. Theodore plans to major in Computer Science at Webster and pursue a career in business.

Emerald DuBose

Webster University

Donald M. Suggs Scholar

Emerald DuBose is from St. Louis and graduated from Lift For Life Academy, where she was active in Future Iota Leaders and International Opportunities. Emerald is majoring in Business Administration at Webster and aspires to become a business executive.

Nysa Gilchrist

Webster University

Donald M. Suggs Scholar

Nysa Gilchrist hails from Wentzville, Missouri and attended Wentzville Holt High School, where she was a member of Student Council, National Honors Society, the Dean’s List and Honor Roll. Now at Webster, Nysa plans to study Exercise Science to pursue a career in physical therapy.

Rachel Jackson

Webster University

Donald M. Suggs Scholar

St. Louis native Rachel Jackson attended Metro Academic & Classical High School,

where she was active in basketball, track and field, music, Poetry Club, Black Student Union and a songwriter and performer for St. Louis Story Stitchers. Rached was an Honor Roll student and earned the Young Community Leader Award. Rachel is majoring in Music at Webster and hopes to become a record label executive.

Matthew Nguyen

Webster University

Donald M. Suggs Scholar

Matthew Nguyen is from O’Fallon, Missouri and graduated from Francis Howell High School. At Francis Howell, Matthew played tennis and was active in Computer Programming and Raven Robotics. He was an A+ Student Recipient and an Honors student. While at Webster, Matthew will be studying Accounting and plans to become an accountant or actuary.

Jason Pho

Webster University

Donald M. Suggs Scholar

Jason Pho is from Saint Louis, Missouri and graduated from Collegiate School of Medicine and Bioscience. During his years at Collegiate, Jason served as an English Language Learning Teacher Assistant and was active in assistant coaching, cross country and Student Council. He distinguished himself with the following awards: The Rotary Club Community Service Scholarship, Outstanding in Latin II Award and Saint Louis Public School 2019 Scholar Athlete. Jason will be studying Biological Sciences with an emphasis in Health and Medicine at Webster University and plans to pursue a career in medical research.

Paige “Kita” Spearmon

Webster University

Donald M. Suggs Scholar

Paige Spearmon is from Saint Louis, Missouri and graduated from KIPP St Louis High School as an honor roll student. Now at Webster University, she plans to study Biological Sciences with an emphasis in Research and Technology and plans to pursue a career in either prosthetics or histopathology.

Gwendolyn Diggs named Stellar Performer in Education

She’s

helping give kids a Head Start

Stellar Performer in Education 2021

By Sophie Hurwitz

The

St. Louis American

Gwendolyn Diggs has spent the past 26 years following her calling to work on education, educating children of all ages throughout those years.

She has worked in administration in Jennings School District, FergusonFlorissant School District, and the National Institute for School Leadership in Washington, DC.

On Friday, Nov. 5, Diggs will receive the 2021 Stellar Performer in Education Award at the St. Louis American Foundation’s Salute to Excellence in Education Scholarship and Award Virtual Gala.

In addition to celebrating our outstanding educators, the foundation and its partners will award over $2 million in education grants and college scholarships to high-potential, local students of color during the virtual gala.

Diggs began her most recent role as the vice president of Head Start/Early Head Start for the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis in 2019. That means she has spent a large portion of her tenure there helping very young children — some of them too young to even be asked to wear masks regularly — begin to grow up during COVID-19.

Supporting those children, Diggs says, means supporting an entire community.

“It was very important to make sure that I considered all individuals,” she said as the pandemic began. “It didn’t matter if they were staff, students or parents or families and the community. So I wasn’t isolating any individual group, but it was taking care of everyone as best I could.”

Her leadership during this period has already earned her a 100 Most Inspiring Saint Louisans Award and the PNC Lift Up St. Louis award. She guided the Urban League’s Head Start centers, funded to serve a total of 931 students, through total shutdown into virtual learning and back into fully-in-person operation while complying with CDC standards. She also worked to make sure

Her desire to serve more students led Gwendolyn Diggs to pursue administrative certification.

the 184 staff members at the centers had what they needed.

“All of our teachers now have laptops, even those positions that are outside of the classroom,” she said.

During the months in which all Head Start and Early Head Start centers were closed, Diggs also facilitated the distribution of Hatch tablets — educational tablet devices to help young children with image recognition and reading comprehension — to all Head Start students.

Now, as all the Head Start centers are in entirely in-person operation again, Diggs says she is confident her team has the skills to go back to remote learning

and support parents in doing so, should it become necessary. While the number of children enrolled at the centers is still slightly lower than usual, thanks to families’ anxieties about COVID, Diggs says she looks forward to drawing families back in by working with her staff to improve the curriculum.

Diggs says she credits her success to mentors like Dr. Art McCoy, who she worked with while serving in administration at Jennings, and Michael McMillian of the Urban League.

She began her career as a classroom educator and says she “saw a lightbulb go off.” She said teaching kids and

watching their learning and confidence progress was what she loved to do. Then, the lightbulb went off again, and she realized she could spread that love for children at a wider scale by moving into administration.

“If I can help 20 kids in a classroom, I could have more kids if I was in a different position,” Diggs said. “So at that point, I started pursuing my administrative certification because I love seeing kids learn. At Jennings, Dr. McCoy and his leadership was very eye-opening for me. I just looked at him as a stellar educator and mentor.”

“It’s that eagerness or that hunger to make sure that I’m pouring into kids everything that I can pour into them,” Diggs said. Lately, she’s been focusing that eagerness on STEAM education for her very young students: making sure their introduction to ideas around creative scientific and artistic thinking doesn’t just start in elementary or middle school.

“I don’t want them to just wait until they are getting into kindergarten or third grade or eighth grade or middle school,” she said. “Having that exposure early is just to increase their motivation to want to learn more in that field.”

Diggs has set up partnerships between the Urban League’s Head Start program and various local institutions such as Washington University, PNC Bank, and Maryville University to achieve that early exposure.

In her work at the Urban League so far, Diggs is most proud of the feedback she’s gotten from parents and community members.

“Just hearing from someone else that something that I have done has made a difference for them and that can be different every day, you know, just knowing that my efforts made a difference in their lives,” she said.

Diggs is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and a regular volunteer at Urban League programs even outside the Head Start sphere.

The 34th Annual Salute to Excellence in Education Scholarship & Awards Virtual Gala will be celebrated online as a free virtual event on Friday, Nov. 5, 2021, on stlamerican.com, the St. Louis American’s Facebook page and YouTube channel. For additional details on how to participate, please visit givebutter. com/2021EducationSalute.

Photo courtesy of Gwendolyn Diggs

Arthur R. Culver is the Lifetime Achiever in Education

‘My entire career has been focused on improving educational outcomes for disadvantaged students.’

Lifetime Achiever

By Sylvester Brown, Jr.

The St. Louis American

East St. Louis School District 189 was in chaos in 2011 when Arthur R. Culver was appointed superintendent.

With about 7,300 students at the time, the district had failed to meet state standards for nine years under the “No Child Left Behind Act.” Only 60% percent of its students met or exceeded state performance standards.

Additionally, the district’s administration cost was higher than any other school district of similar size, making up 8.7% of its budget, compared to the statewide average of 3.5%.

By May of 2011, the Illinois State Board of Education had taken control of the school district. Culver was approached by Illinois education officials interested in him becoming the liaison between the state and District 189. In an interview with The Beacon that year, Culver described how he “fell in love” with the district.

“I’m motivated by challenges and by things that other people either can’t do or don’t want to do,” he said. “The longer I was here, the more I was reminded of why I went into education: to make a positive difference in the lives of students who are from high-poverty backgrounds and are not being successful in school.”

Culver will be recognized as the 2021 Lifetime Achiever at the St. Louis American Foundation’s Salute to Excellence in Education Scholarship and Award Virtual Gala Nov. 5. He said he is “deeply honored” to be recognized, adding that it’s an honor he shares with many people.

“I know the difference that a good education can make in a child’s life,” Culver said. “I know it truly takes a village to raise a child. No one person can do it all. The progress made within the East St. Louis School District is because of the strong involvement of multiple stakeholders. It is an honor to serve in the East St. Louis School District, where

Culver will be recognized as the 2021 Lifetime Achiever at the St. Louis American Foundation’s Salute to Excellence in Education Scholarship and Award Virtual Gala Nov. 5. He said he is “deeply honored” to be recognized, adding that it’s an honor he shares with many people.

we are committed to excellence.”

Culver, a former Champaign, Illinois school superintendent, had established a reputation as a “turnaround leader” in Illinois and Texas. He served in public education as a teacher and administrator for more than 30 years.

As superintendent of District 189, State Superintendent of Education Christopher Koch praised Culver’s

educational accomplishments upon his appointment.

“Art Culver’s willingness to embrace a challenge, his leadership and experience implementing systematic change in the Champaign district will be a great asset to the East St. Louis district,” Koch said in a written release.

While in Champaign, Koch noted how Culver improved African American

elementary math and reading scores by 30% percent and 26% percent, respectively. Additionally, in math and reading, African American middle school scores improved by more than 50% percent and 26% percent. Enrollment of African American students in honors and advanced-placement courses tripled

See CULVER, page 32

Photo by Jennifer Sarti / St. Louis American

2021 Salute to Excellence In Education

Culver

continued from page 31 during the same period.

Culver quickly established “structures and systems” aimed at ensuring teacher and student success. According to his bio, new implementations included “rigorous curriculum standards, increased teacher and principal accountability that includes responsibility for student academic growth and increased social-emotional support for students.”

Under Carver’s 10-year leadership,

the East St. Louis School District has earned accreditation through 2024. Additionally, the four-year graduation rate increased by over 13%, the college persistence rate increased by 12%, and the dropout rate decreased by 5% while student academic achievement rates have grown steadily.

Financially, the school district has gone from concerns about having enough funds to make payroll in 2012 to now having the state’s highest designation for financial stability.

Culver is a tireless advocate for changing the education funding formula in Illinois. East St. Louis has one of the

highest tax rates in the state. Local funding represents just under 15% of the district’s revenue. In the average Illinois district, local dollars make up nearly 70% percent of the budget.

Educational experts have often cited East St. Louis as one of the very worst models in the country for students in poor districts.

To address financial instability, Culver implemented multiple strategies to secure over $50 million in competitive grants, eliminate excess personnel and vendor contracts, and use working cash bonds.

Perhaps most impressive is Culver’s

innovative educational focus. Under Culver’s leadership, the district has added numerous social workers, counselors, and behavior specialists. It has also increased staff professional development to become trauma-informed and to “utilize restorative practices.”

The 34th Annual Salute to Excellence in Education Scholarship & Awards Virtual Gala will be celebrated online as a free virtual event on Friday, Nov. 5, 2021, on stlamerican.com, the St. Louis American’s Facebook page and YouTube channel. For additional details on how to participate, please visit givebutter. com/2021EducationSalute.

Photo by Troy Anthony Photography

Photo courtesy of Arthur Culver

Photo courtesy of Arthur Culver

East St. Louis School District Superintendent Arthur R. Culver poses with coaches and the state championship trophies the school won in 2019.

Photo courtesy of Arthur Culver

Photo courtesy of Arthur Culver

Photo courtesy of Arthur Culver

Past Excellence in Education Awardees

Looking back at all the awardees from the past 33 years

Salute Class of 2020

LaShanda R. Boone

Shantana Goodwin-Payne

Karen I. Hall, Ed.D

Romona Miller

Sheryl Denise Rogers

Rhonda Stovall

John E. Thomas

Craig A. Waddell, Ph.D

Salute Class of 2019

Petra Baker

Monica D. Diggs, Ed.D

Victoria A. Harris

Kimberly Patrice Long

Duane McGowan

Tina Clark-Scott

Lawerence Shields

Tanesia L. Simmons

Salute Class of 2018

Dr. Chauncey Granger

Kim I. Haywood

Bernard Long Jr.

Dorthea B. Nevils. ED.S.

Raymond K. Robinson, M.DIV

Dr. Leslie Thomas Washington

Dr. Tamara D. Wells

Rhea M. Wells

Salute Class of 2017

Alan Byrd, Jr.

Anya Gray Franklin

Dr. Crystal Gale

Shanise N. Johnson

Angela Keys

Dr. Kevin M. Martin

Dr. Raghib Muhammad

Dr. LaTisha A. Smith

Salute Class of 2016

Kimberly D. Berry

Dr. Sarah Briscoe

Cori Cloyd

Kathleen Foster

Dr. Stacy Hollins

Dr. Kacy Seals

Dr. Gladys Smith

Cynthia D. Warren, Ph.D., Ed.D.

Salute Class of 2015

Russell Arms

Dr. Erica L. Bumpers

Dr. Ingrid Clark Jackson

Alicia G. Davis

Veronica Hildreth

Dr. Ashley R. McGhaw

Bessie Bennett Peabody

Dr. Tiffany L. Taylor-Johnson

Salute Class of 2014

Wesley J.C. Bell

Nicole Binion

Nina D. Caldwell, Ed.D.

Edward M. Johnson, Ed.D.

James Paine, II, Ph.D.

Germaine Stewart

Jim Triplett

Martha Warren

Salute Class of 2013

Clara Collins Coleman

Tiffamy C.E. Fane, M.A.

Vanessa Howard, Ed.S.

Wanda P. LeFlore, Ed.D.

Nathalie Means Henderson, Ed.S.

Wilma L. Slaughter, MS

Jody J. Squires, Ph.D.

Deitre J. Terrell

Salute Class of 2012

Jason Brown

Earnestine Carr

LaChrisa Crenshaw

Duane M. Foster

Andrea N. Hayes

Jaqueline Storman Turnage

Doretta A. Walker

LaRhonda L. Wilson

Salute Class of 2011

Carolyn Blair

Nikki Doughty

Latasha M. McClelland

Michelle L. McClure

Art J. McCoy, II

Marsha Yvonne Merry

Natissia Small

Darnell P. Young

Salute Class of 2010

Dr. Celeste A. Adams

Michael Blackshear

Sheandra P. Brown

Florida M. Cowley

Bruce Green

Carole Johnson

Matthew McCallum

Sybil Selfe

Salute Class of 2009

Kelly Ballard

H. Eric Clark

Niyi Coker, Jr.

Natasha Mosley

Rona Roginson-Hill

Michelle A. Pendleton

Dr. Alice F. Roach

Margaret Williams

Salute Class of 2008

Julia Robinson Burke

Mama Lisa Gage

Terry J. Houston, Sr.

Eric D. Johnson, Sr.

RaShawn Johnson

Marilyn Mims

Darlene Morgan

Simone Williams

Salute Class of 2007

Luella Atkins

Haliday Douglas

Sonja P. Little

Romona Miller

Tyrone Jeffrey

Darlene Norfleet

Victor Poindexter

Brian Rogers

Salute Class of 2006

Jowanda Bozeman

Dr. Harvey Fields, Jr.

Kathryn Garrett

Clarice Hall

Crystal Herron

Howard Rambsy

Kathy Walker Steele

Zella Williams

Salute Class of 2005

Charles Ransom

Betty Robinson

Gwendolyn Shannon

Makeda Reid-Vales

Shirley Washington-Cobb

Chelsea Watson

Brian Weaver

Dr. Brenda Youngblood

Salute Class of 2004

Travis Brown, Sr.

Patrick Jackson

Pat Johnson

Vernon Mitchell

Terri Moore

Joan Barnes-Parham

Monette Gooch-Smith

Dr. Ann Chism-Williams

Salute Class of 2003

Vera Atkinson

Dr. Stephanie Carter

Rose Coleman

Dr. Vern Moore

Juanester Russell

Frank Smith

Dr. Linda Lou Smith

Dr. Gwen Turner

Salute Class of 2002

Cynthia Boone

Thomas Edwards

Terrance Freeman

Flossie Henderson

Billie Mayo

Edna Pipes

Salute Class of 2001

Dr. Edwin F. Bailey, Jr.

Terrence Curry

Juliette Hite

Dr. Larona Morris

Annie House Russell

Hattie K. Weaver

Salute Class of 2000

Prof. Bennie A. Adams

Ian P. Buchanan

Mabel Thomas Edmonds

Michael T. Railey, M.D.

Linda Riekes

Cynthia J. Sutton

Salute Class of 1999

Michael R. DeBaun, M.D.

Roland Nichols

Eugene B. Redmond

Althea Taylor

Kerry M. Woodberry, M.D.

Salute Class of 1998

Alexander Harris, O.D.

Louis M. Marion

Dr. Patricia Nichols

Dr. Savannah Miller-Young

Louis Zitzmann

Salute Class of 1997

Alice M. Aldridge

Marion Bosley-Evans

Cynthia L. Cosby

Ivory Johnson

Andrea Walker

Salute Class of 1996

Carol Barnes

Nino Fennoy

Dr. Charlene Jones

Bettye Reed

Chanuncey Trawick

Salute Class of 1995

Victoria Cothran

Dr. Charles Harris

Dr. Ernest Jones

Michelle Lowery

Viola Murphy

Salute Class of 1994

Dean James McCleod

Dr. Arvarh Stickland

Rudolph Wilson

Barbara Woods

Dr. Edith Mae Young.

Note: The specific category of “Excellence in Education” Awards commenced in 1994.

Past Merit Awardees:

Salute Class of 1993

Dr. Edna Allen

Dr. Frances J. Gooden

Elizabeth Hutcherson

Addie Bryan Jackson

Fontroy Todd

Salute Class of 1992

Dr. Harvest Collier

Dr. Lincoln I. Diuguid

Alicia Ivory-House

Sandra Murdock

Dr. Wilfred Sorrell

Salute Class of 1991

Dr. Nettie S. Armmer

Leon Burke, Jr.

Dr. Queen Fowler

Yvonne Howze

Louise Mitchell

Bessie L. Reid

Beatrice Strong

Betty Porter Walls

Louise T. Wilkerson

Salute Class of 1990

Lt. Col. Leroy Adkins

Stephen Banks

Marguerite Ross-Barnett

Lynn Beckwith, Jr.

Evail Boyd

Jerry L. Bryant

Lois Harris

Edward Hightower

Kermit Hill

Floyd Irons

Rev. Dr. Buck Jones

Jerome B. Jones

Betty Jean Kerr

Shirley LeFlore

Kathryn Nelson

Hershel J. Walker

Rochelle Walker

Wilma Wells

Edna J. Whitfield

Gaye S. Wilson

Dorrie K. Wise

Salute Class of 1989

Sarah Short-Austin

Ron Carter

Rose Davis

Mathew Foggy

Rev. C. Garnett Henning, Sr.

Hulas King

Andre Jackson

Oval Miller

Eugene Redmond

Ollie Steward

Eric Vickers

Salute Class of 1988

George Elliott

Jonathan Ford

Dr. George Hyram

Carolyn Kingcade

Richard Martin

Judge Theodore McMillan

Jamie Rivers

Irene F. Schell

Norman Seay

Willie Mae Ford-Smith

H. Phillip Venable, M.D.

Dannette Connor-Ward

Bill Wilkerson

School of Excellence Award Recipients:

• 2020 Hodgen Tech Academy

• 2019 Flynn Park Elementary

• 2018 Moline Elementary

• 2017 Jennings Senior High

• 2016 Riverview Gardens High

• 2015 Fairview Primary

• 2014 Gateway Elementary MST

• 2013 Vogt Elementary

• 2012 Columbia Elementary, SLPS

• 2011 Bermuda Elementary

• 2010 Patrick Henry Elementary

• 2009 Lexington Elementary

• 2008 Froebel Elementary

• 2007 Herzog Elementary

• 2006 Bel-Ridge Elementary

• 2005 Peabody Elementary

• 2004 Pierre Laclede Elementary

• 2003 Barbara C. Jordan Elementary

2020

Previous Salute to Excellence major award recipients

Doris A. Graham, Ph.D (Lifetime Achiever)

Sharonica L. Hardin-Bartley, Ph.D (Stellar Performer)

2019

Charles and Shirley Brown (Lifetime Achievers)

Valerie Bell (Stellar Performer)

2018

Johnetta R. Haley (Lifetime Achiever)

Michael P. McMillan (Stellar Performer)

2017

Michael A. Middleton (Lifetime Achiever)

Dr. Kelvin Adams (Stellar Performer)

2016

Dr. Charlene Lofton Jones (Lifetime Achiever)

Deborah Patterson (Education Advocate)

2015

Alice Faye Roach, Ed.D. (Lifetime Achiever)

Tiffany Anderson (Stellar Performer)

2014

Katie Harper Wright, Ed.D. (Lifetime Achiever)

Terrence L. Freeman, Ph.D. (Stellar Performer)

2013

Lynn Beckwith, Jr., Ed.D. (Lifetime Achiever)

Art J. McCoy, Ph.D. (Stellar Performer)

2012

Gerald Early (Lifetime Achiever)

Judge Jimmie Edwards (Stellar Performer)

2011

Joyce M. Roberts (Lifetime Achiever)

Anthony ‘Tony’ Thompson (Stellar Performer)

2010

2010

Dr. Zelema Harris (Lifetime Achiever)

Dr. Stanton Lawrence (Stellar Performer)

2009

Eugene B. Redmond (Lifetime Achiever)

Diane Miller (Stellar Performer)

2008

James E. McLeod, Ph.D. (Lifetime Achiever)

Donna Patton (Stellar Performer)

2007

Dr. Henry Shannon (Lifetime Achiever)

Don Danforth III (Stellar Performe

2006

Dr. John Wright (Lifetime Achiever)

Dr. Cheryle Dyle-Palmer (Stellar Performer)

2005

Dr. Queen Fowler (Lifetime Achiever)

Darlynn Bosley (Stellar Performer)

2004

Dr. Henry Givens (Lifetime Achiever)

Joyce Roberts (Stellar Performer)

2003

Martin Mathews (Lifetime Achiever)

Audrey Ferguson (Stellar Performer)

2002

Dr. George H. Hyram (Lifetime Achiever)

Vickie & Howard Denson (Stellar Performers)

2001

John E. Jacob (Lifetime Achiever)

Victoria Nelson (Stellar Performer)

2000

Rev. William G. Gillespie (Lifetime Achiever)

Carolyn D. Seward (Stellar Performer)

1999

Dr. James M. Whittico (Lifetime Achiever)

Gloria L. Taylor (Stellar Performer)

1998

Gloria Waters -White (Lifetime Achiever)

Steven N. Cousins (Stellar Performer)

1997

Judge Theodore McMillan (Lifetime Achiever)

Gwendolyn Packnett (Stellar Performer)

1996

Dr. Helen Nash (Lifetime Achiever)

Fr. Maurice Nutt (Stellar Performer)

1995

Kathryn E. Nelson (Lifetime Achiever)

Khatib Waheed (Stellar Performer)

1994

Bob Shannon (Lifetime Achiever)

Dr. Doris Wilson (Stellar Performer)

1993

Al Johnson (Lifetime Achiever)

Carol E. Jackson (Stellar Performer)

1992

Frankie M. Freeman (Lifetime Achiever)

Drs. Victor & Vincent Rodgers (Stellar Performers)

1991

Jesse Hill (Lifetime Achiever)

Dr. John H. Gladney (Stellar Performer)

1990

Fred H. Black (Gold Medallion Awardee)

1989

Bertha Gilkey (Gold Medallion Awardee)

1988

Vincent E. Reed (Gold Medallion Awardee)

The St. Louis American Foundation Statement of Mission and Purpose

The St. Louis American Foundation, a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization founded in 1994, is dedicated to enabling the African-American community to increase its access to careers in Journalism, the Sciences, and the Humanities. The Foundation has defined a unique mission. This mission combines a primary interest in promoting educational opportunity with critical support for activities that enable individuals towards being focused and assuming personal responsibility for pursuing constructive futures. Including the scholarships below, the St. Louis American Foundation has fostered more than $11 million in scholarships, education and community grants since its inception in 1994.

2021 St. Louis American Foundation Scholarships and Community Grants

2021 Donald M. Suggs Scholarships:

Fontbonne University Donald M. Suggs Multicultural Leadership Scholarships

Awarded by Fontbonne University..........................................................................................

Missouri State University Donald M. Suggs Scholarship

Awarded by Southeast Missouri State University...........................................................................

St. Louis Community College Donald M. Suggs Scholarship

Awarded by St. Louis Community College...................................................................................

University of Missouri-Columbia Donald M. Suggs Scholarship

Awarded by University of Missouri........................................................................................

University of Missouri–Columbia Donald M. Suggs Dissertation Fellowship (2)

Awarded by University of Missouri........................................................................................

Saint Louis University Donald M. Suggs Scholarships (2) Funds Awarded by Saint Louis University........................................................................................

Webster University Donald M. Suggs Scholarships

Awarded by Webster University............................................................................................

Maryville University Donald M. Suggs Scholarships

Awarded by Maryville University..........................................................................................

University of Missouri-St. Louis Donald M. Suggs Scholarship $48,000

Goldfarb School of Nursing Donald M. Suggs Minority Nursing Student Scholarship $25,000

Washington University Donald M. Suggs Wash U. Pledge $560,000 Total 2021 Donald M. Suggs Scholarships.................................................................................................................

Deaconess Nursing Scholarships

Computers for students and Monsanto School of Excellence

The St. Louis American Foundation is pleased to have an opportunity to support individuals and organizations who share our view that education is a critical need if African Americans are to be able to help themselves and to contribute to community progress.

2021 Salute to Excellence in Education – Sponsors

SALUTATORIAN Sponsors

HONOR ROLL Sponsors

• Harris-Stowe State University • Urban League of Metro St. Louis • WGU Missouri