October 31st, 2013 edition

I

Pastor and captain

By Bridjes O’Neil

Of The St.Louis American

Wayne Luster is a captain in the St. Louis Fire Department today because he was a pastor first.

Some 25 years ago, Luster was an associate pastor at New Jerusalem Cathedral Church of God in Christ (COGIC), where he noticed a recruitment flier for firefighters on a bulletin board. It had been posted by Wendell H. Goins, a member of New Jerusalem Cathedral and a founding member of the Firefighters Institute for Racial Equality (F.I.R.E.), a fraternal organization for African-American firefighters.

“Wendell Goins is the one who brought me on,”

Wayne Luster is founding pastor at Victory Outreach Ministries Church and a captain in the St.Louis Fire Department.

Celebration of legal community

By Chris King Of The St.Louis American

of Law hosts event in honor of Margaret Bush Wilson

unanimously ruled that housing covenants restricting

Last week the Washington University School of Law hosted a celebration of the

Slay loses water fight

Veolia is out, MSD will consult on city water division

By Rebecca Rivas Of The St.Louis American

After almost a year of protests against a $250,000 consulting contract with Veolia Water North America, the controversial company has decided not to do business with the City of St. Louis, according to Mayor Francis G. Slay’s representative who spoke at an aldermanic committee meeting on Tuesday morning.

Slay’s office spoke with the Metropolitan Sewer District (MSD) on Monday about taking on the role that Veolia would have played – improving the functions and efficiency of the water department –said Mary Ellen Ponder, the mayor’s special assistant. However, Slay’s announcement did not stop the

Sweet Potato Project brings national movement to STLwith help of SLU

By Sylvester Brown Jr.

For the past two years, I have urged the Sweet Potato Project youth to see themselves as “urban pioneers.” I tell them they will lead a food-based economic movement in long-neglected, impoverished neighborhoods.

Today, they are planting sweet potatoes on vacant lots. The yield is used for the sweet potato cookies they will sell in a couple weeks. I ask them to imagine whole blocks where food is grown in

Photo by Wiley Price

Court

Sweet Potato Project students Keith Young, Darryeon Bishop and Marquitta Williams prepare a batch of sweet potato cookies under the supervision of Chef Bryan Rogers,a sous chef at Saint Louis University’s Salus Center.

Photo by Wiley Price

Journi Williams,7,and her cousin Anayiah Neely,8,work their magic on pumpkins Saturday at the Moonrise Hotel in the University City Loop.The annual Pumpkin Carve & Glow event is the fall kick off in the Loop

Evelyn Lozada blocks BBW season five reunion show

There will be no reunion show for Basketball Wives season five because Evelyn Lozada refuses to be in the same room with Tami Roman Tasha Marbury

A source told Hip Hollywood that since filming wrapped Lozada has fallen out with both Marbury and Roman, and is now afraid that both ladies will air certain secrets involving her relationship with former husband Chad Johnson and new relationship with L.A. Dodger Carl Crawford during the reunion.

The source would not divulge what those “secrets” were, but did say Lozada was so adamant about not being involved in the reunion that she even told production that they could “sue her” if necessary.

Chris Brown enters rehab after latest assault charge

Monday in a Washington, DC court room, Chris Brown‘s assault charge was reduced from a felony to a misdemeanor and he pled not guilty. The 24-year-old singer is also required to stay 100 yards away from the victim. Reports say the altercation began after the man tried to get into a picture with Brown and two other

of rapper Drake’s entourage confronted Brown on the dance floor.

The man told police Brown punched him in the face, and police say the area around his nose was swollen and bruised. Another man stepped between them and also punched the man before grabbing Brown by the arm and leading him toward the tour bus, according to the report. Brown remains on probation for assaulting his on-again, offagain girlfriend Rihanna in 2009 just before the Grammy Awards.

Brown, who lives in Los Angeles and is originally from Virginia, has been involved in other altercations since 2009. Police have said a 2012 brawl at a New York nightclub began when members

Brown’s arrest could affect his probation in the Rihanna assault case. Brown is due back in court Nov. 20 in Los Angeles to update a judge on his probation. According to reps for the singer, he entered rehab on Tuesday.

“Chris Brown has elected to enter a rehab facility,” reps for the singer said in a statement. “His goal is to gain focus and insight into his past and recent behavior, enabling him to continue the pursuit of his life and his career from a healthier vantage point.”

R. Kelly impersonator situation gets interesting

Furious R. Kelly fans claim a stunt double took the stage instead of the real thing at a recent concert in Louisiana.

According to reports R. Kelly fans in Monroe, Louisiana, who purchased their concert tickets from Ticketmaster, booed a lipsyncing R. Kelly impersonator off the stage after barely five minutes.

And the drama surrounding R. Kelly’s alleged no-show on Saturday took another bizarre turn when the soul singer’s representative insisted the hit maker was the performer fans mistook for a local

impersonator. It appears even promoter Cedric Johnson was left confused - he initially stated he “got duped” over the show, but has since denied he made the remark.

A bun in the oven for Kerry?

Scandal star Kerry Washington is said to be pregnant with her first child. Kerry Washington, who secretly married husband San Francisco 49er Nnamdi Asomugha back in June is reportedly four months pregnant. A close friend confirmed the pregnancy to US Weekly earlier this week, but Washington’s camp has been mum about the rumors for more than a month.

Ciara and Future engaged

Congratulations are in order for singer Ciara and rapper Future after the rapper asked the pop star to be his wife. Future proposed to Ciara on bended knee at a celebration for her 28th birthday with a 15-carat diamond ring. Ciara confirmed the engagement to E! News with a picture showcasing her massive stone. The couple has been dating for one year.

Sources:

Scholarship in the name of a pioneer

Nash family establishes Helen E. Nash MD

Scholarship

By Sandra Jordan Of The St. Louis American

Two students from St. Louis will receive support to attend college in Missouri from the newly created Helen E. Nash MD Scholarship, in honor of the late pioneer in medicine.

The Helen E. Nash MD renewable scholarship, administered through the Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis, will go to one or two undergraduate students who come from schools in the City of St. Louis and have demonstrated financial need and excelled academically. Funds will help fund tuition and expenses at fouryear colleges or universities in Missouri.

Dr. Nash’s niece Lauren Nash Ming said the scholarships would provide up to $5,000 annually and there is a preference for minority applicants, but no requirement.

“We are very honored to have been selected by the Nash family to carry out Dr. Nash’s wishes,” said Faith Sandler, executive director of the Scholarship Foundation.

“Dr. Nash believed strongly that access to education and health care are the keys to building strong individuals and communities. With this scholarship, young people from the city with the drive and passion to pursue higher education will now have the financial resources to realize their dreams.”

Dr. Nash broke through gender and racial barriers during her career. After graduating from Spelman College in 1941, she was one of very few women attending Meharry Medical College in 1945.

Upon completion of her

United Way: a common table

By Orv Kimbrough

For The St. Louis American

United Way exists to create conditions to help people live their best possible lives. You might be surprised to learn that more than a $1 million is contributed to United Way of Greater St. Louis annually by individual leaders at other health and human services organizations right here in our region.

Orvin Kimbrough

After the initial shock of this – shock because these charities have their own powerful missions, shock because these charities themselves are, too, scraping to raise needed funds to help people – you might think the employees only give because United Way supports them.

But a million dollars? That’s a lot of support. Not to mention that about 40 agencies that run United Way campaigns are not United Way member agencies.

This speaks to the power of collaboration and the belief among many that if we are going to move the needle on poverty, if we are going to create new pathways to opportunity or ensure that a strong fabric of helping is in place, we have to have a common table.

pediatric residency at Homer G. Phillips Hospital in 1949, Dr. Nash was one of only four AfricanAmerican physicians (and the only woman among them) invited to join the Washington University School of Medicine faculty, as well as the first African American asked to join the St. Louis Children’s Hospital staff.

“Helen refused to let others marginalize her, even when that meant facing extreme prejudice and bigotry,” said her niece, Alison Nash, MD.

An energetic, ambitious and highly committed physician, Dr. Nash started her private practice in 1949, while remaining on staff at Homer G. Phillips Hospital, serving as pediatric supervisor and associate director of pediatrics from 1950 to 1964. She was

president of Children’s Hospital attending staff from 1977 to 1979.

Dr. Nash retired from private practice and her faculty position in 1993. She then served as dean of minority affairs for Washington University School of Medicine from 1994 to 1996.

“She loved her patients, and pushed institutions to change to improve children’s health and lives,” Dr. Alison Nash said.

Helen Nash followed her father’s footsteps by pursuing a medical career. He was a general practitioner in Atlanta. Her younger brother, Dr. Homer E. Nash Jr., and her niece, Dr. Alison Nash, followed Helen Nash into pediatrics.

“She set very high standards for herself and the people around her,” Dr. Alison Nash said of her aunt.

“She was very clear that she not only wanted to practice medicine, she also wanted access to cuttingedge research, and to make an impact on the future of medicine by teaching and mentoring new physicians.”

Monique Gale, program supervisor at The Scholarship Foundation, said, “Dr. Nash was my pediatrician and always encouraged me and all her patients to dream big. This is an exciting way to honor her memory.”

The signing event was held at The Scholarship Foundation on October 7, the anniversary of Dr. Nash’s passing. For more information on the Helen Nash MD Scholarship, visit www.sfstl.org.

This table must be inclusive of diverse interests and regional in scope, and United Way is that common table. In an era of decreased resources and increased needs, we have to rethink how we tackle issues. Going it alone, history tells us, is less optimal than shared ownership, shared vision and collective action.

I am looking forward to working with all of our partner agencies, other key health, religious, academic, and economic development institutions in the region and our nearly 200,000 individual and institutional investors to change the discussion of how we help people live their best possible life in the days, weeks, months and years ahead. Thanks for supporting this year’s United Way campaign. It is not too late. Simply put, you are changing lives.

The United Way’s 2013 fundraising campaign runs through November 6. To give, contact 314-421-0700 or visit www.stl. unitedway.org.

Kimbrough is president and CEO of the United Way of Greater St. Louis.

Scholarship Foundation external relations director Karin McElwain-West; Dr. Helen Nash’s nieces and trustees of her estate, Lauren Nash Ming and Dr. Alison Nash; and Scholarship Foundation program supervisor Monique Gale

Slay, Nixon take defeat differently

“Whatever else it may be, the Charter of the City of St. Louis is undeniably a masterpiece of diffusion of power.” Thus spake Judge Robert H. Dierker Jr. in his 1990 ruling in the City of St. Louis vs. Virvus Jones, a local landmark decision requiring that all professional service contracts in the city go before the Board of Estimate and Apportionment.

The diffusion of power in the City of St. Louis and the State of Missouri has resulted in new political defeats for the city’s and state’s chief executives, Mayor Francis G. Slay and Governor Jay Nixon. For reasons that are difficult to grasp, given only the known facts, both pushed this month for very unpopular policy changes. Slay pushed – far harder than a mere $250,000 contract would warrant – for a French multinational to be awarded a consultancy with the city’s water division, without this specific contract being approved by the Board of E&A, the city’s chief fiscal body that includes Slay, Comptroller Darlene Green and aldermanic President Lewis Reed. Nixon pushed for the state to make unilateral cuts to its federally funded Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program that would have deprived 25,000 unemployed people in the St. Louis region alone of food stamps. Slay was opposed aggressively by environmental activists, Reed and most city aldermen. As a result of this opposition, Slay said, the contractor, Veolia Water North America, stepped away from the table, which we consider to be the mayor’s attempt to save face rather than admit to a political defeat. Nixon was opposed by the Missouri Association for Social Welfare, state Sen. Jamilah Nasheed and this newspaper. Unlike Slay, the governor did not pout or seek to pin the loss on someone else. While the ink was still wet on our editorial last Thursday, Nixon decisively withdrew his proposal to enact cuts to SNAP. We regret his initial misstep and commend the governor for retracting this needlessly hurtful proposal and accepting a political rebuff like the skilled

navigator of diffused political power that he is.

Slay and his senior staff have a much more difficult time gracefully navigating the diffusion of power. Over many years they have shown skill in exploiting weaknesses in the city’s diffuse power structure, such as having their way with critical boards (civil service, public service) that one might expect to be diffuse in their governance but actually are run by compliant mayoral appointees. See, for example, the career of Fire Chief Sherman George or the large mass of Slay campaign contributors who are annually awarded public service contracts.

But when Slay and his senior staffers lose, they turn petulant and insulting. Chief of Staff Jeff Rainford has been the administration’s principal voice of public insult, but he recently shared the microphone with Eddie Roth, Slay’s new operations chief and former editorial writer for the Post-Dispatch. Roth made extremely condescending comments about the city voters who opposed the Veolia contract. He also told his former colleagues at the Post that the city’s pattern of arresting the wrong people for crimes and detaining them indefinitely is not one of the many things he “worries about.” If you or your loved one has been wrongfully arrested in this city, isn’t it good to know that one of the mayor’s most senior appointees isn’t worried about your problems?

Lewis Reed warns that Slay has not conceded defeat on Veolia because – for reasons, again, that remain unclear – Slay has not given up his fight for this unpopular contract. “The Mayor’s Office is just trying to go around the process,” Reed said about Veolia reportedly withdrawing from the deal. “I don’t think they’ve given up.” We have bad news for the mayor. He may not have given up the fight, but he is not the only person or institution that has not given up. And as long as power remains diffuse in our quirky democracy, he is going to have to learn to live with that reality. Ask Jay Nixon for pointers.

Commentary

An old slur is still a slur

I’m a bit late to the topic, but the Washington, D.C., professional football team really ought to change its name. As encouragement for the franchise’s stubborn owner, we should just stop saying the offensive word.

The term “redskins”

-- it’s hard to write a column about a word without using it, I’m afraid -- is a racial slur. Fans of the team, myself included, have pretended not to notice this uncomfortable fact for many years. Now we’re beginning to confront it. The name fails the most basic tests of acceptability. Can you imagine employing it to address someone? Would you use it to describe anyone not associated with the team?

If you overheard someone using the term in a non-football context, would you think more of that person or less?

The answers are obvious. To be honest, they always were.

We ignored the fact that we were uttering a vile and condescending insult – often, during games, yelling it at the top of our lungs – because we loved the team. So we told ourselves that hey, it’s just sports, and maybe everybody should lighten up. But we knew that this was a dodge. No one can seriously argue that sports are somehow insignificant or

tangential to American life. Of the 20 most-watched broadcasts in U.S. television history, do you know how many were Super Bowls? All of them.

The national movement to get rid of racist team names and mascots is decades old by now.

It’s odd, when you think about it, that the practice of naming sports teams after American Indians became so widespread in the first place – Braves, Chiefs, Seminoles, and so on. Apologists say it was a sincere attempt at paying homage to fierceness and bravery. I have my doubts.

George Preston Marshall, the owner who in 1933 changed the team’s name from Braves to Redskins, was a notorious racist. For more than a decade after other pro football teams began putting AfricanAmerican players on the field, Marshall’s team remained an all-white bastion. Covering a game against the Cleveland Browns, legendary Washington Post columnist Shirley Povich once wrote acidly that the great fullback Jim Brown, “born ineligible to play for the Redskins, integrated their end zone three times.”

So it strains credulity that Marshall intended the new name to be a “badge of honor,” as current team owner Dan Snyder claims. More likely, it was casual racism of the kind that isn’t practiced in polite society anymore.

In May, Snyder told USA Today, “We’ll never change the name. It’s that simple.”

But public opinion is clearly shifting. Earlier this month, Snyder took what he must have intended as a more empathetic approach: an open letter to the team’s fans. It was pretty much an unmitigated disaster.

Snyder’s missive was a convoluted mixture of arrogance, petulance and historical fantasy. He essentially argued that since the name has been used for 80 years, and since he went to his first game when he was 6, and since some Indians apparently don’t consider the name offensive, it stands to reason that ... well, it’s unclear just what those elements were supposed to add up to.

The fact that a slur has been used for many years does not impose a duty to keep using it. Language and attitudes evolve; Snyder’s problem is that discomfort with the team’s name has gone viral. We can all think of words in common usage eight decades ago that would start a fight today.

Snyder’s vision is clouded by nostalgia and an unjustified sense of grievance. Fans of the team should sharpen his focus by simply declining to use the name – and calling the team “Washington” instead. If fans don’t allow the slur to pass their lips, at some point the name shifts on the balance sheet from tradition-steeped asset to embarrassing liability. Eugene Robinson’s email address is eugenerobinson@ washpost.com.

The new Vashon

By Kelvin R. Adams For The St. Louis American

Close your eyes and think about Vashon High School. What images come to your mind?

If you have watched television news or listened to radio reports or read newspaper stories for the past 10 years or so, your images of Vashon may not be very positive. Are you ready to have your eyes opened?

It’s time St. Louis gets to know the real Vashon High School. New Principal Joseph Williams III has re-energized the student body at one of St. Louis’ most challenged high schools with a hands-on, caring approach to learning that may become the model for other urban high schools to follow. Starting in November, Williams will introduce the Vashon Honors Program for the school’s top 50 freshmen. Membership in the Vashon Honors Program is a privilege and must be earned through academics, attendance and citizenship. In short, the Vashon Honors Program is for highly motivated learners. Students accepted into the Vashon Honors Program will

take Honors Level courses in English, algebra, American history, biology and American government. These students will be subjected to a rigorous and differentiated curriculum and will learn higher-level thinking skills and problemsolving techniques that will more than prepare them for college and beyond. Are you starting to see different images of Vashon High School? Keep reading.

One of St. Louis’ most respected companies, Wells Fargo Advisors, has forged a

n Starting in November, Principal Joseph Williams III will introduce the Vashon Honors Program for the school’s top 50 freshmen.

partnership with the students of Vashon High School to provide tutoring in reading and math, financial literacy and incentive programs to mark progress. Nearly 75 Wells Fargo Advisors employees leave their office each week to work one-on-one with Vashon High School students. They

Letters to the editor

Thank the governor

The last few weeks have seen some harrowing moments, not the least of which has been the threat of lost funding for a certain population of Missourians who utilize the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP. With one in six Missourians living in hunger, I would like to thank the governor for withdrawing his previous proposal to cut back the federal waiver allowing healthy adults with no children to receive assistance. There are more than 58,000 men and women who will benefit from this decision.

I understand that there are times when a preemptive move is in the best interest of the state. However, I also believe that able-bodied, healthy citizens make a strong state. Reversing this decision and allowing the waiver to stand is, without a doubt, continuing the construction of a solid platform needed to raise needy Missourians back up so they can stand on their own feet. I would also to thank the Missouri Legislative Black Caucus and various community organizations for continuing to stand strong with me on this issue.

State Sen. Jamilah Nasheed St. Louis

Very thankful

We are very thankful that Gov. Nixon has ordered the Department of Social Services to pull back the proposed rule change on SNAP. We invite those who want to send a thank you message to the governor to visit our Hunger Task Force webpage at http://www.masw. org/programs/hunger.php.

Jeanette Mott Oxford executive director Missouri Association for Social Welfare St. Louis

Nominations caught up in politics

I believe both Dave Spence and Pastor Freddy J. Clark were excellent candidates for the police board, but their nominations were caught up in politics. I do not believe there was enough thought put into the potential consequences of

have seen the real Vashon High School and they look forward to their tutoring sessions each week.

Inside a beautiful, stateof-the-art building, Vashon High School students are truly focusing on academics. Many seniors are earning college credit through a dualenrollment partnership with St. Louis Community College. Career-minded students are gaining real-world experience in areas such as marketing, computer networking, desktop publishing and fashion through valuable internships.

Despite poverty levels nearing 90 percent, more than six out of every 10 Vashon graduates continue their education at a two-year or fouryear college. At one time, Vashon was one of St. Louis’ most revered high schools, turning out notable graduates such as New York Yankees star Elston Howard, jazz musician Clark Terry and U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters. Today’s Vashon students have that same potential. They just need the rest of St. Louis to see them in that light.

I encourage you to take three minutes and visit www.slps. org/ShowMeVashon to see today’s Vashon students in the proper light. Kelvin R.

this legislation. The result is we have an ordinance on the books that has deterred potential candidates and jeopardized the operations of the police board.

Our staff has worked for weeks to try and remedy the stumbling blocks created when the County Council passed new legislation regarding candidate qualifications; however, as Mr. Spence indicated in his statement, the questions around privacy and the use of this information could not be answered completely and he felt it necessary to withdraw. I understand his concern and I share it.

Finding candidates is not the problem; we have had excellent candidates who have refused to go forward after discussions about the new legislation. I certainly hope that as we move forward the Council will examine their true intent and find a remedy for this situation.

County Executive Charlie A. Dooley Via email

Another devastating loss

I was devastated to receive word today that we have lost yet another young person, James Moore, to the senseless violence that occurs too often in our city. My heart goes out to this young man’s family as they cope with this devastating loss. This is a wakeup call for our community as we deal with the reality of an environment where the lives of young people are at risk even when waiting for a school bus. We must come together to change this culture of violence and create a place where our children can be safe and secure, and where they have the opportunity to grow into successful adults.

State Rep. Joshua Peters St. Louis

A strong choice

The NAACP has made a strong choice in appointing Lorraine Miller to serve as interim President and CEO. Lorraine has a long history as a dedicated public servant and community advocate, having served as the first African-American clerk of the House of Representatives, an aide to Nancy Pelosi and John Lewis, president of the Washington D.C. chapter of

the NAACP and a member of the NAACP’s National Board of Directors. I was honored to work with Lorraine during her time with the House, and I look forward to partnering with her in this new capacity as we continue the fight for economic, civic, educational and social equality for all.

U.S. Rep. Elijah E. Cummings Washington, D.C.

Columnist Eugene Robinson

Guest Columnist Kelvin R. Adams

County Library

to sponsorwinter reading club

St. Louis County Library’s Winter Reading Club will kick off November 1 and run through January 31, 2014. All ages are invited to participate. Registration begins November 1 and participation is free; simply stop by any St. Louis County Library branch to sign-up. The Winter Reading Club will have two categories: ages 0-11, and 12–Adult. Those in the younger category will be encouraged to read for five hours; those in the older group will be asked to read four books to complete the club. Those who do will entered into a prize raffle. Each of the library’s 20 branches will choose three winners in each age group.

Prizes for the kids include: sleds, movie gift cards and family memberships to The Magic House. Prizes for teens and adults include: movie gift cards, Amazon gift cards and Kindle Fires.

For more information, call 314994-3300 or visitwww.slcl.org/winter-reading-club.

NeighborDriving Neighborprogram forseniors

The Saint Louis County Department of Human Services operates the County Older Resident Program (CORP). CORP’s Neighbor Driving Neighbor program matches volunteers with older adults living nearby and needing rides for medical appointments.

Many older residents also are unable to access public or even senior transportation and are not able to afford taxis. In CORP’s Neighbor Driving Neighbor program, volunteers use their own cars for rides that are scheduled in advance and are free of charge for seniors. Orientation and mileage reimbursement are available. CORPprovides many opportunities for helping older adults.

To learn more about the Neighbor Driving Neighbor program or other volunteer openings, call CORPat 314-615-7430.

Links, WUSTLpartneron Alzheimer’s education

The St. Louis Chapter of The Links, Incorporated partnered with the Washington University at St. Louis KnightAlzheimer’s Disease Research Center(KADRC) to present two days of education on Alzheimer’s Disease to the St. Louis community.

The first event was the 8thAnnual Norman R. Seay Lecture.This year’s topic, “The Three Keys to Closing the Disparities Gap in Alzheimer’s Disease,” was presented by Consuelo Wilkins, MD, MSCI, executive director of Meharry-Vanderbilt Alliance and Associate Professor of Medicine at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee. The event was followed by a reception sponsored by the St. Louis Chapter of Links.

The following day, the St. Louis Links and the KADRC co-sponsored a seminar and luncheon at the Renaissance Hotel-Airport with Centene Corp. and Home State Health Plan entitled “Alzheimer’s Disease:Unraveling the Mystery.”

Featured speakers included Link Monica Parker, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia; and John C. Morris, M.D., Principal Investigator of the KADRC.

Food pantry open house is a success

Jewish Family & Children Service raised $80,000 and collected six pallets of non-perishable food at its sixth annual food pantry open house, held recently at the Harvey Kornblum Jewish Food Pantry.This will provide more than 320 meals to those in need. The Harvey Kornblum Food Pantry is always looking for more donations.For more information about Jewish Family & Children’s Service, call 314-993-1000 or visit www.jfcs-stl.org.

Stay close to your teenager

By J.Michele Brown Guest Columnist

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports the U.S. teen birth rate reached a historic low in 2010, dropping to the lowest level reported in the seven decades for which a consistent series of rates is available. While the experts say this drop can be contributed to better sex education and better access to contraception, can more be done?

Even though the divorce rate is on the rise in the U.S., big props are due to the fathers who have stepped up and been positive contributions in the everyday lives of their children.

J.Michele Brown

And with the rate of marriages in our country dropping significantly and steadily over the past 40 years, according to the National Center for Family and Marriage Research, mothers still overwhelmingly are heads of households. Whether married or not, mothers have such a great impact on their children. In most cases, mothers are the first demonstrators of self-respect and self-worth.

According to the Parents As Teachers publication “The Important Role of Fathers in the Lives of Young Children” by William Scott and Amy De La Hunt, fathers play a significant role in fostering social-emotional development in the lives of their children. Our sons want to be like Dad, and our daughters want to find a man like Dad.

The teenage years are often a time when parents feel their children trying to separate from them. But according to the article “AdolescentParent Attachment: Bonds that Support Healthy Development” (published in the October 2004 issue of Pediatrics & Child Health, the journal of theCanadian Pediatric Society), public health initiatives that encourage parents to stay connected with their adolescents would help to change the general impression that parents hold about adolescent disinterest and rebellion.

Support within the educational system, emphasizing the continued importance of attachment to parents and other adults during adolescence, would also be beneficial. We must get closely involved with the activities our teenagers are interested in and the people with whom they are involved.

LAW

Continued from A1

“Her father was a real estate broker who sold the Shelleys their home in 1945,” Norwood said of Wilson.

The home with the restrictive deed covenant that the Shelley family purchased was located in the Lewis Place neighborhood, just north of the Central West End in St. Louis. Wilson had graduated from the Lincoln University School of Law in 1943, so as a beginning lawyer she observed seasoned civil rights lawyers begin to prepare the Shelleys’case.

Washington University and the first person to hold a new endowed chair in Arts & Sciences named for Wilson. He told another tale of the local African-American legal community involving, of all people, future U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas.

“When you find someone else in need, help them.”

– Margaret Bush Wilson,to Clarence Thomas

“She told me that exposure to those lawyers cast the mold of the kind of lawyer she wanted to be,” Norwood said of Wilson. Next to take the podium was John G. Baugh, professor of African and AfricanAmerican Studies at

SLAY

Continued from A1

Ways and Means Committee members from approving a board bill, 5-2, to officially block the Veolia contract.

This month, Slay angered both city aldermen and environmental activists by claiming that the board had approved the Veolia contract when it passed the city budget in June.

Several aldermen on the Ways and Means committee called this claim of Slay’s “insane” and “sneaky.”

To clarify any differing opinions on the legislative process, Alderman Terry Kennedy introduced Board Bill 216 on Friday to “unappropriate” $250,000 from the water

At the time, in 1974, Thomas was himself a green attorney freshly graduated from law school at Yale University, struggling to find a job. U.S. Senator Jack Danforth, who graduated from Yale with divinity and law degrees, suggested that Thomas move to St. Louis and take the Missouri bar exam.

“They happened to be dinner mates about this time, and the senator asked Margaret Bush Wilson where Clarence Thomas might live in St. Louis,” Baugh retold the story Wilson had told him. “And she said, ‘He will live with me.’”

That summer, Thomas lived with Wilson and her family. “It was the first truly intellectual

division’s budget. This would force the consulting contract to go before the Board of Estimate and Apportionment, which has long been the standard process, he said.

Slay’s claim that the Board of E&Adid not have to approve the Veolia contract caused a lot of confusion about the budget process, Kennedy said.

“There is still a larger issue that we need to look at,” Kennedy said. “Whatever we can do to legislate and make that process clear, we should do that. I would never want to see this committee and this board go back through this again.”

The Veolia contract has been criticized by aldermanic President Lewis Reed and the St. Louis Dump Veolia

black family Clarence Thomas had ever seen,” Baugh said.

“He watched her husband Robert do the New York Times crossword puzzle every day –in ink.”

At the end of his stay, Baugh said, Thomas asked Wilson what he owed her.

“You owe me nothing,” Baugh said she responded. “When you find someone else in need, help them.”

The event’s featured speaker, Theodore M. Shaw, professor of professional practice at

Coalition, among others.

Opponents say Veolia Water, a French multinational and the largest private water services provider in the world, operates under questionable environmental and human-rights standards.

Despite Slay’s statement that Veolia does not want to do business with St. Louis, Reed and activists remain on guard. Reed said Slay may try to employ Veolia on a subcontract with MSD. He is not taking Slay’s word for it that Veolia has truly stepped away, he said.

“The Mayor’s Office is just trying to go around the process,” Reed said. “I don’t think they’ve given up.”

Lance LeComb, spokesperson for MSD, said MSD can complete most of the work in-

Kimberly Norwood, professor of law and of African and African-American Studies at Washington University,listened intently as Theodore M.Shaw,professor of professional practice at Columbia University School of Law,spoke on civil rights landmark legislation last week at Washington University School of Law.

Photo by Wiley Price

Columbia University School of Law, was introduced by Rufus J. Tate Jr., principal of the Tate Law Firm.Tate spoke with awe about Shaw, who was an attorney with the NAACP Legal Defense Fund for 23 years, serving (among other roles) as associate directorcounsel (1993-2004) and director-counsel and president (2004-08).

“This man is always on cases that go before the U.S. Supreme Court,” Tate said of Shaw. “He doesn’t touch any-

house. However, when asked about concerns that Veolia could be a MSD subcontractor for the work, LeComb said he could not comment. MSD would use its consultant selection process for any outside subcontractor, he said.

At this point, the agreement between the city and MSD is strictly verbal, LeComb said, and more details on costs and responsibilities will be finalized in the coming weeks.

In Ponder’s testimony on Tuesday, she said several times that the Veolia contract was “politicized” over the past year. Improvements to the water division have been held up by politics for too long, she said.

Alderman Antonio French responded, “You keep saying this is politicized. I don’t think the people out here are here for a political reason. This whole process highlights how this administration does not get

PROJECT

Continued from A1

North St. Louis, processed and turned into products that can be used locally and sold regionally or nationally.

I have told them they will become entrepreneurs, business owners and employers who will run spin-off businesses such as bakeries, grocers or trucking companies. Is this a pipe dream?

Absolutely not, says Chef Steve Jenkins, director of the Food Innovation and Entrepreneurship Program with Saint Louis University’s Department of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Recently, the Sweet Potato Project partnered with SLU to produce sweet potato cookies and other products. It is a good fit, Jenkins contends, considering that Mildred MattfeldtBeman, chair of the department, is a pioneer in the region’s locally grown food and product movement.

“She understands the power of food and the issue of social justice within our food systems,” Jenkins said of Mattfeldt-Beman, “and she recognizes the disparities that exist within them.”

Working out of SLU’s Salus Center, Jenkins’crew provides breakfast, lunch and snacks made from locally-grown harvests to public, private and charter schools. The department also trains students in the art of culinary entrepreneurship.

Afood-based revolution is exploding in America. The Evergreen Cooperativesin Cleveland, Ohio are workerowned cooperative groups committed to local job creation and sustainableworkplaces and economic development. Its spin-off initiatives include the Cooperative Laundry, Ohio Cooperative Solar and the Green City Growers Cooperative.

Detroit’s Black Community Food Security Network is a non-profit, grassroots organization engaged in urban agri-

thing unless it’s going to the Supreme Court.” Shaw then took the podium and proceeded to share with the sizable audience, comprised mostly of AfricanAmerican students, what life is like at the top of the civil rights legal profession. Not surprisingly, for a field based on arguing, it is contentious at the top. He reminded the audience that the NAACPLegal Defense Fund, where he worked, was separated from

along well with others.”

French said Slay disrespected the Board of Aldermen when he suggested that the aldermen had approved the Veolia contract – without their knowing it.

“The worse example was this letter to Comptroller Darlene Green, demanding that she sign the contract,” French said. “That’s not really how you get along with other officials. I hope the administration has learned something.”

In an Oct. 4 letter to Green, City Counselor Patricia Hageman, who is appointed by the mayor, said Green must sign the contract out of “ministerial duty.”

Kathleen Logan Smith, director of environmental policy for the Missouri Coalition for the Environment, agreed with French.

“The Mayor’s Office was poised to approve a Trojanhorse contract, and it would

“We’re on the cusp of an agricultural renaissance in the city of St.Louis.”

– Karen Davis, Lincoln University’s Urban Impact Center

culture based on a mission to address food disparities and “grasp larger control” over foods systems to build “selfreliance” in urban communities.

The Hattie Cartham Community Gardenin Brooklyn, N.Y., reclaims empty or abandoned spaces in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood, which are used for urban gardens and community educational centers. The agency grows fruits and vegetables, as well as medicinal herbs for local residents, and offers entrepreneurship programs. According to Mike Sorth, executive director of Gateway Greening, St. Louis is uniquely positioned to join this revolution.

“We were founded on the fur trade, and we grew on agriculture,” Sorth said of St. Louis. “We’re surrounded by farms in southern Illinois and throughout Missouri, but most of what’s grown are commodity crops (corn, soybeans, etc.). We need more of what’s known as ‘specialty crops’–the food we eat daily or buy at grocery stores every day.” Gateway Greening supports more than 200 community gardens and urban greening projects and offers about 75 school and youth-focused gardens. It also operates the City Seeds Urban Farm program on a 2.5acre vegetable farm downtown, where disadvantaged clients are mentored in horticulture and job training while

the NAACPby the IRS in 1957. So when Wilson was serving as president of the St. Louis NAACPand the Missouri NAACP, as well as chair of the national NAACP Board of Directors, she was leading organizations that had a shared history with the Fund, but the organizations were distinct and, in fact, often in conflict. In the 1980s the NAACP even sued the Fund, unsuccessfully, for trademark infringement.

“I joined the Fund in the early ‘80s, when that was going on,” Shaw said. “There were titans on either side. The lawyers from the two organizations had relationships. It was a complex time. I and others understood whoMargaret Bush Wilson was and her commitment to civil rights, but institutions have egos – and egos are realities.”

First among the event’s many co-sponsors was the Mound City Bar Association. Mound City President Nicole Colbert-Botchway and Vice President Jared Boyd both gave brief remarks. Norwood said the event was the “brainchild ” of her soror, ColbertBotchway.

have cost the rate payers of the City of St. Louis an unknown amount of money,” Logan said. Logan said she believes MSD is a good choice to complete the work because the district is currently under legal scrutiny. In June 2007, the coalition, the State of Missouri and the EPAfiled a lawsuit against MSD – in part, because untreated sewage was flowing into the Mississippi River. In August 2011, the EPA announced a settlement agreement that calls for MSD to spend $4.7 billion over the next 23 years to eradicate over 350 sewer overflows.

Because of the settlement, MSD is being watched very closely, she said. “It was shocking and encouraging that Veolia has decided to swim downstream,” Logan said. “It speaks highly of citizen involvement.”

“We need more of what’s known as ‘specialty crops’–the food we eat daily or buy at grocery stores every day.”

– Mike Sorth, Gateway Greening

learning hands-on vegetable production and landscape maintenance.

Karen Davis, regional horticulture specialist for Lincoln University’s Urban Impact Center, believes the possibilities for urban agriculture are endless, especially if we utilize the recently passed House Bill 542. Signed into law this year, it allows local municipalities to create Urban Agriculture Zones (UAZ) within lowincome communities. These areas are eligible for tax incentives for “systematic repurposing of blighted areas” in the state’s urban core.

Although Kansas City has signed on, Davis contends that city aldermen must be informed and urged to promote passage of urban agriculture zoning in St Louis.

“There’s a bunch of us working to educate the aldermen to get it approved in St. Louis,” Davis said. “If we do, it opens the door to even more possibilities – tax write-offs for businesses, farming on vacant land tax abatements, and allocations to start urban farming programs in schools. We’re on the cusp of an agricultural renaissance in the city of St. Louis.”

This is the second of a fourpart series that explores the possibilities of economic turnaround in long-neglected areas of St. Louis For more information , visit sweetpotatoprojectstl.org or call 314-341-4071.

LUSTER

Continued from A1

Luster said.

Luster began his career at Engine House No. 9 and recently celebrated his 24th anniversary in the fire department on October 2.

Goins led him into the fire service, but Luster said it was the Lord who led him into pastoral work.

While at New Jerusalem Cathedral, Luster said, the Lord called him to start his own ministry. His mentor, Elder Solomon L. Williams, senior pastor of New Jerusalem, gave his blessing, and Luster founded Victory Outreach Ministries Church in 2009.

“We actually started in a daycare,” Luster said.

That daycare was Perfect Gift Nursery, located at 1318 N. Newstead Ave. Victory Outreach Ministries is currently located in Hazelwood at #14 Village Square.

Luster’s spiritual roots might be in C.O.G.I.C., but his church is nondenominational, with its doors open to people of all religious faiths. As a pastor, he said, he tries to make the “glorious gospel of Jesus Christ” plain and describes his preaching style as “practical.”

“We address the social ills that are faced in our society,” Luster said. “Because the Bible says, ‘It’s first natural, then spiritual.’You have to deal with the natural man as well as the spiritual.”

At Thanksgiving, for example, Victory Outreach Ministries partners with the Covenant House to feed homeless teens who stay there, while dishing out a helping of “spiritual nourishment” as well.

“We’re a biblically-based church, but we’re actively engaged,” he said.

Luster holds a bachelor’s degree in biblical general studies from the Mid-West Bible Institute. He also earned an associate’s degree in business administration and marketing

Church: Victory Outreach Ministries Church

Address: #14 Village Square, Hazelwood

Denomination: Nondenominational

Founded: 2009

Pastor: Wayne Luster

First Lady: Michelle Luster

Membership: 125

Ministries: Women, G.R.A.C.E (Girls Reared in Anointing Character and Excellence), D.I.V.A.S (Divine Intervention for Victory and Salvation), Men, B.R.O.T.H.A.S. (Bring Real Ones To Higher Authority & Salvation), Married/Unmarried, Prison and Health and Wellness.

and advertising from St. Louis Community College. But fighting fires is how he has fed his family.

He is proud to say that he is able to pay college tuition at Alabama A&M University for his daughters, Charity and

“We address the social ills that are faced in our society.You have to deal with the natural man as well as the spiritual.”

– Wayne Luster

Crystal. He also financially helped his wife, Michelle, to launch her own business, Alternative Nail Salon & Spa.

Luster would not have entered the fire service without the support F.I.R.E. Its mission is to promote the hiring, retention and upward mobility of African-American firefighters. It currently has about 275 members, including Battalion Chief Steve Simpson, Captain John Watson Jr. and Captain Dave Scott.

In Luster’s former role as vice chairman of F.I.R.E., he served as a political liaison. He organized marches and spoke

out against the contested demotion of then-Fire Chief Sherman George in October 2007. The city’s first AfricanAmerican fire chief, George retired and sued Mayor Francis G. Slay for racial discrimination, without success.

Luster believes that diversity within the fire department should be representative of the city of St. Louis, which has a plurality of African Americans, according to the 2010 census.

One of F.I.R.E.’s diversity initiatives is geared toward African-American youth.

Luster credits current F.I.R.E. President Capt. Abram Pruitt Jr. with leading the effort to promote firefighting as a viable career path for youth.

Luster is not finished pursuing promotions himself. He is currently captain of Engine House No. 1, located at 2910 S. Jefferson Ave. in the Benton Park neighborhood. He has his sights set, next, on battalion chief and has been studying for the promotional exam.

Men will judge his capacity to lead in the fire department, but he has a higher authority in the pulpit. Luster said, “I excel in the ministry by pleasing God and by serving people.”

This story is part two of a four-part feature series entitled, “F.I.R.E. in the Pulpit.”

Movin’ with JJK

Olympian Jackie Joyner-Kersee spent the morning at Hickey Elementary School last Thursday teaching St.Louis Public Schools students and parents about the importance of physical activity and good nutrition.

Photo by Wiley Price

Normandy board votes not to pay tuition for transfers

Struggling district lays off 103 teachers and staff, closes one elementary school

By Dale Singer Of The Beacon

After agreeing to save money by laying off 103 teachers and staff members and offering

early retirement incentives to 98 more, the Normandy school board took an unexpected stand last Thursday night by voting against paying $1.3 million in tuition and transportation bills

for transferring students for the month of September.

The deciding vote in the surprise 3-2 decision came from board President William Humphrey. Humphrey was

joined in the vote by board members Sheila Williams and Terry Artis. Humphrey said he was not so naïve to think that the districts that have accepted students transferring from Normandy won’t get the money from the state. But he said he wanted to send a message from the district about the state law that allows students who live in unaccredited districts to

transfer to nearby accredited ones – a model he called “unsustainable.”

“This is a public policy decision gone wild,” Humphrey said. “The only ones who can fix this situation is the legislature.”

Under guidelines issued by Missouri’s Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, if an unaccredited district refuses to pay

tuition for two successive months, the state would “(withhold) the amount of tuition associated with each transferring child and (distribute) that amount to the receiving district(s).”

A statement from DESE, released after the board vote, said: “The department’s guidance document indicates that the state will withhold tuition from unaccredited districts for failure to pay after two consecutive months.”

Earlier, Artis had cast the only vote against the planned layoffs, saying that he thought the district’s administration is top-heavy and the burden of efforts to cut costs in Normandy shouldn’t fall on teachers and staff.

The cuts include teachers – 35 in elementary schools, 14 in middle schools and 22 at the high school – as well as support staff. Class sizes are projected to rise at all levels, with the highest being 25.9 in fifth grade.

District officials said decisions will be made based on seniority, tenure, certification and performance. Those who will lose their jobs will be notified Nov. 13, with the cuts taking effect at the end of the semester in December.

Normandy officials said that by laying off 103 teachers and staff members and offering early retirement packages to 98 more, the district would save more than $3 million this school year and more than $7 million in the 2014-15 school year. Its current budget of $49 million was established before the transfer program was implemented.

The board also voted to close Bel Nor Elementary School, which is the oldest Normandy building, built in 1926. Students there will be assigned to other district elementary schools. Even with the budget cuts, the district needs additional funding to make it to the end of the school year. The state board of education has voted to ask the General Assembly for another $6.8 million for the district, but the reception to the request has not been very positive.

Normandy officials explained the need to cut the budget with some statistics. On the last day of school in May, the district had 3,835 students. On the last Wednesday of September, Normandy had 3,000 students. About 1,010 students are taking part in the transfer program, including 250 who live in the district but have never attended Normandy schools. The district has 88 percent of the student population it had this time last year.

Normandy’s tuition for the current school year is $12,000; $6,300 of that comes from the state, with the rest from the federal government and local taxes. The districts to which Normandy students transferred have tuition rates ranging from $9,500 to more than $20,000. With expected bills for tuition ranging between $13 million and $15 million, about 30 percent of the district’s budget will pay transfer costs. Because of the adjustments prompted by the personnel changes and the closure of Bel Nor, the district is cutting one instructional day from its school year, down to a total of 176 days, two more than the minimum required by the state. Humphrey noted that without any reductions in Normandy’s budget, it was likely to go broke in March.

“We have a simple plan – to survive the year,” Humphrey said.

Board member Henry Watts, who was appointed earlier this year to fill a vacancy, said during the meeting that he wanted to make sure he and his colleagues did what they could to help the district stay alive.

“If we don’t do something, the lights in this building will be off. Our neighborhood schools will be gone,” Watts said.

“I don’t want to see the lights off here. I don’t want to see the Normandy school district down. I don’t want to see my grandson, who is a junior here, be part of the last graduating class at Normandy High School.”

Edited for length and reprinted with permission from

Redditt Hudson to file for Community College board

Longtime community leader and social justice advocate Redditt Hudson announced his intention to file as a candidate for a seat on the St. Louis Community College Board of Trustees to an overflow crowd gathered at Greater St. Mark Family Church last Thursday. Supporters in attendance included Bishop Lawrence M. Wooten, president of the Ecumenical Leadership Council; state Representative Tommie L. Pierson, also an Ecumenical Leadership Council member; Rev. Marvin Sanders; Rev. Solomon Williams; Bishop James Stewart; Cedrick Clarkson; former St. Louis Fire Chief Sherman George; Dellwood Mayor Reggie Jones; Northwoods Mayor Everett Thomas; and current St. Louis Community College Board of Trustees Vice Chairperson Doris Graham “Redditt Hudson is a man that we can depend on to make sure that the quality of opportunity for higher education remains a top priority for the St. Louis Community College,” Bishop Wooten said. “That’s why I, along with the entire Ecumenical Leadership Council, strongly endorse and support Redditt Hudson’s candidacy for a seat on the St. Louis Community College Board of Trustees.” Among the business leaders supporting Redditt Hudson’s candidacy was Ada Joyce Taylor, chief executive officer of Deer Valley Home Health, one of the largest home health organizations in Missouri. Taylor sponsored the event with a lavish spread from Dominic’s Catering. Hudson announced his candidacy nearly two months before filing opens on December 17. The seats up for election next year are those currently held by Melissa Hattman (Subdistrict 1) and Libby Fitzgerald (Subdistrict 4). Subdistrict 1 includes the Hazelwood, Ferguson/Florissant, Riverview Gardens, Jennings, Pattonville, Ritenour, University City, Normandy, Clayton and Ladue school districts. Subdistrict 4 includes the school districts of Parkway, Lindbergh, Mehlville, Rockwood, Valley Park, Meramec Valley, Hancock Place and small portions of Jefferson and Franklin counties. Hattman voted with Graham and board Chair Craig Larson to extend former Chancellor

Myrtle Dorsey’s contract. Fitzgerald, Hattie Jackson and Joan McGivney voted against Dorsey. Hudson will run in Subdistrict 1 – Hattman, reportedly, will not run for reelection. Fitzgerald, who opposed Dorsey, deserves an African-American challenger. The election will be held April 8, 2014.

The deeper Post

The EYE is more forgiving of the Post-Dispatch after the massive story package on wrongful arrests reported by Robert Patrick and Jennifer S. Mann that was rolled out in this past Sunday’s paper.

The EYE wishes the front page dedicated to such serious, local, public-interest investigative reporting were not masked under a World Series section that has been taking precedence over news during the series, but Post editors could argue that they rolled out the enterprise story in an edition where readership would be high, with Cardinals fans – who are as ubiquitous, in St. Louis, as wrongful arrests – flocking to the newsstand.

Very unusually for a Post news report, this story even takes to task some darlings from the administration of Mayor Francis G. Slay (and Circuit Attorney Jennifer Joyce, who is elected independently of Slay but counts many of the same supporters).

“Confronted 21 months ago by reporters with examples of several wrongful arrests, Jennifer Joyce, the circuit attorney, and Eddie Roth, a senior aide to Mayor Francis Slay, expressed concern and pledged reforms,” Patrick and Mann report.

“But their response has hardened since the deeper PostDispatch investigation. ‘I worry about a lot of things. I don’t worry about this,’ Roth said in a recent interview.”

Needless to say, the reporters and their editors know that Roth – Slay’s new operations guy and a former Post editorial writer – will look like a callous, ignorant jerk to be caught saying this out loud. If you don’t worry about the city you run arresting and holding in jail the wrong people for crimes that have been committed by others who remain at large, then you’re worrying about the

Redditt Hudson visited with St. Louis Community College Board of Trustees Vice Chairperson Doris Graham at Greater St. Mark Family Church last Thursday after he announced his intention to file as a candidate for the St. Louis Community College Board of Trustees.

wrong things.

And now, let’s enjoy that phrase for a moment: “the deeper Post-Dispatch investigation” into city government. Yes, again: the deeper Post-Dispatch investigation into city government. Let’s have more – much more – of that sort of thing. Undoubtedly there is a need in the region for a media entity with the resources and reach of a comprehensive daily newspaper paying critical attention to city government.

Why not Daly or Carpenter?

Alderman Jeffrey Boyd has said he will run against Mavis Thompson, Gov. Jay Nixon’s appointee for license collector, when the seat is decided by voters next August. Boyd, who campaigned for the appointment after Michael McMillan resigned to accept Jim Buford’s old job running the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, has every right to feel snubbed. Though he should understand that Nixon was not about to appoint so closely aligned with people like Slay and state

Note: both Collector of Revenue Gregory F.X. Daly and Recorder of Deeds Sharon Quigley Carpenter will defend their citywide seats next August on the same ballot as Mavis Thompson. The EYE wonders why Jeffrey doesn’t run against one of these white candidates instead of trying to take a seat away from an experienced, incumbent black official?

Executioner picks new poison

The part of our state government that puts people to death has joined Texas in picking a deadly new poison of choice. The Missouri Department of Corrections announced recently that it has adopted a new one-drug execution protocol, using pentobarbital, which will be administered intravenously. This replaces propofol, which the department had intended to use in future executions.

On Oct. 11 Gov. Nixon halted the scheduled execution of Allen Nicklasson via Propofol, which had been set for Oct. 23, following threats from the European Union to limit the drug’s export to the United States if governments here intended to use the widely used anesthetic to kill people.

Joseph Paul Franklin will have the dubious distinction of being the first man to die by pentobarbital in Missouri on Nov. 20.

TeamFour no more

TeamFour Architects –which gave its name to the infamous “Team Four Plan” – is no more, at least as a stand-alone company. It has been acquired by St. Louisbased Etegra, Inc., a facilities planning and management company, and is now a division within that firm.

Senator Jamilah Nasheed

But the EYE has to wonder – why is Jeffrey’s heart so set on license collector? Clearly, it wasn’t his first choice for citywide office. He already has run for city treasurer, a vastly more influential office, getting defeated by Tishaura O. Jones in a four-way primary. So why shouldn’t Jeffrey keep moving down the line and sampling other citywide bids?

Nearly 90 percent of the nation’s propofol is imported from Europe, according to the AP. Missouri also is now getting into the business of making the poison the state uses to end lives. “The department also announced that it has added a compounding pharmacy to its execution team,” the state notes in a release. “The compounding pharmacy will be responsible for providing pentobarbital for executions carried out under the new protocol.” It doesn’t add that this extra burden on taxpayers is required because European drug-makers are increasingly strategizing to avoid providing ingredients for American executions.

Assuming the state’s compounding pharmacists get their poison ready in time,

You might say Etegra has chutzpah to acquire a brand synonymous, to many, for calculated disinvestment in North St. Louis, though the architectural firm (or, now, division) is hardly to blame for the deterioration of the North Side. As William Albinson, a principal of Team Four, pointed out in a 2008 column in The American, there never was a Team Four Plan to disinvest in half of the city (the half where most black folks live). The urban legend of a nonexistent “Team Four Plan” arose, Albinson wrote, from the Post-Dispatch’s bungled reporting on the 1975 St. Louis Draft Comprehensive Plan. Team Four wrote several technical memos for that plan, including Memorandum 6B, which suggested different development strategies for three types of areas in the city the firm dubbed Redevelopment, Conservation and Depletion areas. The Post report linked Memorandum 6B with an unrelated map from another plan, creating the false impression that a large part of North St. Louis had been written off for “Depletion” in the Comprehensive Plan. “Memorandum 6B had no map and there was no intent to apply a single policy to any large section of the city,” Albinson wrote in The American. “Depletion Areas were considered as varying in size and location but not the size of neighborhoods or large parts of the city.”

PRESENT:

Exercise

Nutrition Challenge:

If you have a bag FULL of Halloween candy — what can you do to help you resist over-loading on sweets? Some tricks to follow are:

Brush your teeth after you’ve had a piece of candy. Having fresh, clean teeth can help you resist eating another piece. Bonus — brushing also helps get the sticky sugar off of your teeth to help prevent cavities!

Exercise Challenge:

Celebrate our local sports team’s playoff efforts by having your own post-season fun!

Create a school (or neighborhood) playoff competition. Create a list of challenges and draw up a chart. 2-4 players face each other at

Healthy Kids Kids

Consider “donating” your candy to a food pantry, family shelter or other group that might appreciate your leftover treats.

When you do have a treat, remember to do some extra, fun activities to burn off the extra calories.

Can you think of other uses for your bag-o-candy?

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

a time for each challenge. (The challenges can include basketball shooting, ringtoss, football throws, baseball hitting, base-running, etc.)

Select activities that include balance, stamina, accuracy and speed for the best healthy benefits!

Use your chart to

As the weather starts to turn colder, flu season can hit area schools. To avoid passing/or getting someone else’s germs, remember to:

> Sneeze into a tissue and immediately throw it away.

> If caught without a tissue, sneeze

narrow down your leaders after each round. For example, you could say only the top four players in each challenge move forward. Eventually you can come up with your top two and finish with your playoff champion! Have fun, burn calories and increase your heart rate all at the same time!

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

your elbow (while turning away from your friends). Do not sneeze into your hands!

> Wash your hands frequently throughout the day and avoid touching your face: eyes, nose, and mouth.

Learning Standards: HPE 3, NH 1, NH 7

Where do you work? I work for Mercy Hospital.

Where did you go to school? I graduated from Soldan High School. I received an Associates of Science & Certificate in Ultrasound from Forest Park Community College. My position requires a high school diploma and an associate degree.

What does a staff

ultrasonographer do? I take pictures of adults’ and children’s internal body organs (such as gallbladder, liver, pancreas, spleen and kidneys) and also head ultrasounds on newborn babies.

Why did you choose this career? I knew that I always wanted to do something where I would be helping others because I love talking and working with people.

What is your favorite part of the job you have? My favorite part of my job is that I get to meet people of all different ethnic backgrounds and all ages from newborn to senior citizens. I really enjoy performing pediatric (children) ultrasound exams.

Learning Standards: HPE 6, NH 3

CLASSOOM SPOTLIGHT

SCIENCE CORNER

If you have seen a sickle, a rounded tool used for cutting wheat, then you can imagine the crescent shape of a sickle cell. In the body, red blood cells carry oxygen to all of your cells. Round is the best shape for red blood cells because they can move easily. Sometimes, the blood cells are shaped like a sickle. This particular shape does not travel well and often gets caught inside smaller blood vessels. When this happens, there is pain in the bones. It also affects other organs, such as the brain, heart, and kidneys. When the body recognizes that the sickle cells do not work properly, they destroy them. Unfortunately

SCIENCE EXPERIMENT

What Is Sickle Cell Anemia ?

these cells are destroyed more quickly than new cells are made. Therefore, the body does not have enough red blood cells and the person becomes anemic. Since this particular cause of anemia is the sickle-shaped blood cell, it is called sickle cell anemia.

For more information, visit: http://kidshealth.org/kid/health_ problems/blood/sickle_cell.html

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

The Shrinking Egg Trick!

SCIENCE STARS

AFRICAN AMERICAN CELLULAR BIOLOGIST: John K. Haynes

John K. Haynes was born October 30, 1943, in Monroe, Louisiana. His parents, a teacher and a principal, valued education and Haynes was able to begin first grade at just four years old. He attended Morehouse College when he was seventeen and received his bachelor’s degree in biology in 1964. Six years later, he obtained his doctorate degree in biology from Brown University.

It was at Brown University that Haynes began his research on sickle cell anemia. He worked with Vernon Ingram, the scientist who discovered the amino acid difference between normal blood cells and sickle cell hemoglobin. From there, Haynes became a junior faculty member at Meharry Medical School and continued his study of sickle cells in the Department of Genetics and Anatomy. In 1979, he returned to Morehouse College as a biology professor and the director of the Office of Health Professions. He created a program for high school students interested in the medical field. Agencies like the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI), and the National Institute of Health (NIH) helped Haynes recruit minority students into science. In 1991, he went to Brown University to continue his work on sickle cells. He has served as Dean of Science and Mathematics at Morehouse College since 1999. Haynes has published papers on cell biology, as well as studies on undergraduate STEM education.

Questions:

q What do you think a cellular biologist does?

w Would you like to be a cellular biologist? Why or why not?

Materials Needed:

1 Plastic Container • Vinegar

• 2 Ziploc Sandwich Bags

• Clear Corn Syrup

• 1 Raw, Shell-less Egg • 1 Glass

Disappearing Egg Shell

Directions:

q Place raw egg in container and cover with vinegar. Notice the egg bubbling from the chemical reaction.

w Leave the egg in the vinegar for 2 days, then take it out and wash off the vinegar. The egg is now shell-less and clear.

Shrinking Egg Directions:

q Fill the Ziploc bag halfway with corn syrup.

w Place the shell-less egg in the bag. Take careful note of the size of the egg. Now place the bag in the glass for support.

MATH CONNECTION

Scientists often rely on measurements when they are collecting data. In this activity, you will practice converting measurements. Remember the Rule!

1296 in. =

62

91

DID YOU KNOW?

e Check the egg in a few hours, then again the next morning. Did it look bigger or smaller? Let the egg sit for 3 days, by now you should see a size difference.

r Remove the egg from the corn syrup, and gently wash it. The egg should look shriveled, and you can feel the yolk.

t Fill another Ziploc bag halfway with water, and put the egg in it. Let it sit supported by the glass for a few days. Does it continue to shrink or does it grow back to normal?

Analyze: Look up the definition for osmosis. How do you think osmosis affected this process?

Learning Standards: I can follow directions to complete a procedure. I can make predictions and analyze results.

12

Learning

e Why is there a strong connection between biology and medicine?

Learning Standards: I can read biographies of individuals who have made contributions to science.

MAP CORNER

Use the newspaper to complete these activities:

Activity One: Look through the newspaper for pictures, stories, and advertisements that demonstrate how people change the environment. Remember to identify the 5 Ws: who, what, when, where, and why.

Activity Two: Many natural hazards make the news: earthquakes, wildfires, volcanic eruptions, floods, tornadoes, hurricanes. Look for a newspaper story or a picture about a natural hazard. Identify the natural hazard and its effect on people and places.

Learning Standards: I can use a newspaper to locate information. I can summarize an article and recognize cause and effect.

Photo courtesy www.thehistorymakers.com

Obituaries

Two years have come and gone, but you will always be in our hearts, memories and thoughts.

Emerson C. King Sr.

Emerson C. King Sr. had a hard time finding a desirable job as an educator in the 1950s. Interviewers praised his resume, but then said he lacked certain college courses. He overcame the racial double standard by taking more classes until he wound up with a master’s degree of education from Emporia State University in Kansas, plus 30 hours.

In 1964, King finally found the kind of job he wanted, as a teacher Soldan High School. He was an assistant principal at O’Fallon Tech and Metro high schools before retiring from the school system. An outgoing man, he liked to share the new slang of his students, tell amusing stories about them and

demonstrate their latest dance steps. After school, he worked part-time at Mercantile Bank downtown, training clerical personnel. His teaching specialty was “distributive education” in office skills like typing, shorthand and using business equipment.

Most nights, he returned to his home North County home and cooked the family’s dinner with ingredients his wife Betty had prepped. He made delicious dinner rolls from scratch and tasty fried chicken. He bragged about figuring out most of the “secret” ingredients in the batter of the original Kentucky Fried Chicken.

King served in World War II. At first, he was being trained as a commando but was reassigned to be a cook. The segregated Army had changed

its mind about arming black soldiers with heavy weapons. He turned that discrimination to his personal advantage by becoming an avid home cook. He also liked to bowl.

In retirement, he worked part-time at the Missouri School for the Blind. He co-owned his family’s landscaping company in Hutchinson, KS, where he was born on Feb. 12, 1923 to Oscar and Cleopatra (Morgan) King.

Emerson Sr. died Friday, October, 18 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Richmond Heights. He was 90. A funeral service was held, with burial at Jefferson Barracks.

He was preceded in death by wife Betty Jean (Cooper) and sisters Bessie Coleman Bell, Opal Hughes and Maxine Carpenter.

He is survived by brother Kenneth of Hutchinson, sisters Lilla King of Hutchinson and Wilda King of South Hutchinson, KS, son Emerson Jr. and daughter-in-law Donna (Wells) of St. Louis, daughters Emily King of Chevy Chase, MD and Alberta King of St. Louis, grandson Lamar King of St. Louis, granddaughter Jasmine King of Hazelwood, great-grandsons Gage, Noah

and Rahmiel King, and greatgranddaughters Imani and Kaley King.

Clifford “Scotty” Williams

Williams, age 64, passed on Sunday, October 20, 2013, at the Jefferson Barracks Medical Center (Jefferson Barracks, MO). He was born in St. Louis, MO, on January 29, 1949 to Gladys and Clifford “Beaver” Williams, Sr. The East St. Louis-based Montclairs recorded sweet, soulful ballads in the early 1970s, including “Dreamin’s Out of Season” (1972); “Beggin’ is Hard to Do” (1974); “Make Up for Lost Time” (1974); and “Baby You Know (I’m Gonna Miss You)” (1974). Members of the group were David Frye, George McClellan, Phil Perry, Kevin Sanlin, and Scotty Williams. The group disbanded in 1975. Scotty was preceded in death by his mother, Gladys Williams. He leaves to Clifford Williams

cherish his memory two sons, Clifford (Sharifah) Williams III (Florissant, MO) and DeMon (Meyako) Williams (Chicago, IL); father, Clifford (Marian) Williams, Sr. (East St. Louis, IL); three sisters, Renee (Paul) Mayfield (Centreville, IL); Crystal (Robert) Pinske (Thomasboro, IL); Princess (Joseph) Hayes (Belleville, IL); one brother, Bruce Williams (Douglasville, GA); five grandchildren: DeMon, Jr.; Aliya; Layla; Nylah; and Sumayah; two Godsons, George (Buster) McClellan and Gerald McClellan; former wife, best friend, and confidant, Clara “Boot” Williams; a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, beloved sister-in-laws Toni, Patty, and Winnie; and his Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church Family.

Hon. Phillip E. Jones, Sr.

The Honorable Phillip E. Jones, Sr. died peacefully with his family by his side on Tuesday, October 22, 2013. He was 62 years old.

Commissioner Jones was engaged in private legal practice for over sixteen years, with a primary focus in the area of family law. In 2000, he was appointed to serve as a Family Court Commissioner for the St. Louis County Circuit Court, Division 65. He was recently reappointed to serve his fourth term on the bench.

He is survived by his wife Linda; his mother Shirley; his children Phillip, Jr. and Danielle; his step-daughter, Allison; his daughter-in-law Jamila; and his mother-inlaw Ruby. His children have blessed him with five grandchildren, Alexandria, William, Maya, Phaelin and Christopher. Also, left to

celebrate his transition are his siblings, Ronald, Terri and Charles; his sisters-in-law, Laschelle, Marsha and Helena; his brothers-in-law Michael, Alex, Robert, Otto, Matthews and Mark; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his daughter Daphne and his father Charles E. Jones.

In Memory of Elder

Avon R. Hobbs

September 16, 1941— October 31, 2012

Our dearest mother and grandmother, Avon R. Hobbs, how we miss your love, your kind words, your giving, your singing, and most of all your teaching. Words cannot express the void we feel in our hearts. We thank God for the legacy you have left behind and instilled in us. We thank God for the wisdom, the teaching you gave to us and the counseling you gave married couples that needed a little guidance. Also to the hopefuls seeking a spouse. Mother, you had a word for everyone.

We imagine you’re in that heavenly choir doing what you do best, leading the heavenly choir, singing praise and worship songs.

Mother, we know you will always be our guardian angel that watches over us daily. If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane; I’d walk right up to heaven, and bring you home again.

Love you, Your children and grandchildren: Marvin Jr., Marlene, Marvin III, Angie and Azuree

Jake Poe III

From Mom and Dad: Jake & Delores Poe; Siblings: Alvin, Aaron, Sharon Poe, Chandra Poe Crawford of Dallas, Texas

Emerson C. King Sr.

Phillip E. Jones, Sr.

Avon R. Hobbs

BUSINESS

and CEO of

Ameren talks diversity

Minority employees host discussion of ‘Inclusion in the Next Generation’

By Bridjes O’Neil

Of the St.Louis American

The Ameren Network of Minority Employees (ANME) hosted its 3rd Annual “Let’s Talk Diversity” networking reception and panel discussion recently at Ameren headquarters in downtown St. Louis, 1901 Chouteau Ave.

ANME is an Ameren employee resource group established in 2004 to develop, support and retain minorities. The group’s key initiative is to assist in the professional and personal development of Ameren employees. The event brought out roughly 90 local

“The most important thing you can do in diversity and inclusion is to have courage.”

– Sharon Harvey Davis,Ameren

leaders, advocates and supporters of organizational diversity efforts. This year’s panel discussion theme set its sight on the future: “Diversity and Inclusion in the Next Generation.” The discussion mainly was focused on how to enhance diversity compe-

tencies and diversity-sensitive policies and practices in the workplace.

The panelists were Carlton Adams, senior vice president of global supply chain management at Peabody Energy; Tim Fitch, chief of police with the St Louis County Police Department; Anna Shabsin, senior lecturer at the George Warren Brown School of Social Work at Washington University; and Rabbi Susan Talve, founding Rabbi of Central Reform Congregation.

Ayoung woman, who described herself as a millennial, asked the panelists whether

See GEE, B2

Fourexcellent awardees

Execs at Bank of America, Brown Shoe, Emerson, Mallinckrodt honored

PEOPLEON THE MOVE

Lorraine A.GoffeRush

Lorraine A. Goffe-Rush has been named vice chancellor for human resources at Washington University in St. Louis. She will become a member of the University Council, which comprises the chief administrative officers and deans of the university. She succeeds Ann B. Prenatt, who will retire Dec. 31. She joined WUSTLin 2000 as director of employee relations and was promoted to director of human resources in 2006 and to assistant vice chancellor for human resources in 2010.

Michael P. McMillan was recently selected to Ebony Magazine’s 2013 Power 100 list. Chronicled in “The Dream Keepers” section of the list, McMillan was recognized for his ability to inspire others in their pursuit of civil rights and economic empowerment. He is president and CEO of the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis and formerly served as license collector and alderman for the City of St. Louis. The 2013 Power 100 list will appear in the December/January issue of Ebony.

Alberta Clark was recently recognized as a Hospitality Super Hero for exceptional service provided by hospitality industry employees by the St. Louis Convention & Visitors Commission. She works as an employee cafeteria attendant at the Sheraton Westport Plaza Tower. This recognition program honors frontline hospitality workers. Nominations were solicited from management of hospitality industry companies and judged by customer service experts.

Deacon James Joiner will be recognized as an Ageless-Remarkable St. Louisan by St. Andrew’s Resources for Seniors System at its gala Nov. 10 at the Hyatt Regency St. Louis at the Arch. He serves as community relations director at Friendly Temple Missionary Baptist Church, helping to coordinate the church’s numerous outreach and building projects, to establish a variety of senior service programs, and to solidify its fiscal policies and procedures.

BUSINESS BRIEFS

$3.2M in tax credits enable business relocations, expansions

U.S. Bancorp Community Development Corporation, the St. Louis-based community development subsidiary of U.S. Bank, has closed on $3.2 million of New Markets Tax Credit equity to support the relocation and expansion of T-REx, St. Louis coworking space and technology incubator, and Bissinger’s, a local chocolate company and confectioner.

USBCDC committed $1.7 million to support TREx’s purchase of and move to the Lammert Building at 911 Washington Ave., where it will continue to house its more than 70 startup companies, accelerator programs, and venture capital firms (such as Cultivation Capital, Capital Innovators and Arch Grants) and grow to accommodate up to 50 more companies, creating 240 additional full-time jobs over the next five years.

Bissinger’s, which sells its wares at gourmet retailers across the country, and its team of 70 employees are outgrowing the company’s current headquarters and production facility at 3983 Gratiot Street. The company’s relocation into North City at 1600 North Broadway in late 2014 will allow Bissinger’s to hire an additional 90 full-time employees in the next five years.

These commitments were made possible in partnership with St. Louis Development Corporation, which earmarked tax credits for these project earlier this year.

By Rebecca Rivas

reception begins at 11 a.m., and the luncheon and program start at noon.

Rhonda Denise Jones, Emerson

Rhonda Denise Jones, director of immigration at Emerson, has more than 25 years in the legal field and joined Emerson in 1993. For the last three years, she has been responsible for overseeing Emerson’s U.S. Immigration program. Recently, her responsibilities have been expanded to include global immigration. Agraduate of Fontbonne College, Rhonda earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and is currently working on a master’s in international business at Washington University. She is a graduate and alumnus of the St. Louis Business Diversity Initiative

Fellows program. The program refines leadership skills through a strategic curriculum and the sharing of wisdom and best practices. She is a board member for the African-American Experience Museum, a non-profit virtual museum. She is the founder of Sistah Soul Food Sunday, an affirmation and empowerment group for women of all ages, and Know2No, an organization

developed to enlighten, educate and elevate youth to say NO to disreputable behavior.

David Rodgers, Brown Shoe

David Rodgers is vice president of real estate management for Brown Shoe Co. headquartered in Clayton, MO. He oversees more than 1,300 retail outlets operating under the banners of Famous Footwear, Naturalizer, Dr. Scholl’s and Sam Edelman. Rodgers first joined Brown Shoe Co. in 1999, as manager of lease audit and accounting at the Famous Footwear division in Madison, Wisconsin. It was the first year that the audit team’s recoveries eclipsed the

See CLAY, B3

Free all-day veteran entrepreneurworkshop Nov. 7

The SBASt. Louis District Office and the Veterans Business Resource Center (VBRC) are hosting a free all-day veteran entrepreneur workshop for military members, veterans, and spouses 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, November 7. Sessions will include Introduction to the Entrepreneurial Experience; Right Idea? Basics of Opportunity Recognition; Determining & Discovering Your Market: Who’s Buying What You’re Selling; Your Business Model: How Do You Make $; Financing the Money to Make It Happen; Legal Issues: Keeping Yourself out of Trouble; What to Do If You Get in Trouble; Moving Forward: Business Planning; and Resources Available & Next Steps. The workshop will be held at theRobert A. Young Federal Building, 1222 Spruce Street, 2nd Floor Auditorium. Lunch is not provided, and parking is not included. RSVPis required to Angie Wells at 314-539-6613 or email angela.wells@sba.gov.

Richard Mark,president,chairman

Ameren Illinois,listened attentively to a panel discussion about diversity organized recently at Ameren headquarters in downtown St. Louis by the Ameren Network of Minority Employees.

Photo by Maurice Meredith

Michael P. McMillan

Alberta Clark

Deacon James Joiner

Rhonda Denise Jones David Rodgers Michelle D.Tucker Dexter Evans

Don’t ignore tax deduction formoving expenses

By Jason Alderman

Whether you’re relocating across town or across the country, moving is expensive. By the time you’ve paid to have your household goods packed and moved, cancelled and reconnected utilities and racked up storage fees, you could easily be out thousands of dollars.

Many people don’t realize that if they’re moving to start a new job, transferring with a current employer or even returning to the U.S. to retire after working abroad, their moving expenses may be tax deductible. Plus, moving expenses are an “above-theline” deduction, which means they reduce your adjusted gross income and can be claimed even if you don’t

SALUTE

Continued from B1

$1 million threshold, and he was awarded Famous Footwear’s Award of Excellence. Since then, annual recoveries have averaged over $3 million. In 2006, Rodgers returned to St. Louis as director of lease

itemize deductions. Two tests generally must be satisfied to claim a movingexpense deduction: Distance test. The distance between your new job and your former home must be at least 50 miles farther than your previous workplace is from that home. For example, if you used to work 10 miles from home, your new workplace must be at least 60 miles from your old home. If this is your first job or you were unemployed, the job must be at least 50 miles from your old home. Time Test. Regular employees must work full-time at least 39 weeks during the 12 months after moving, although the weeks needn’t be consecutive or for the same employer. (For self-employed people, it’s 78 weeks during the first 24

audit and accounting for Brown Shoe Co. That same year he was featured in Chain Store Age Magazine’s Rising Stars 40 under 40.

In 2008, Rodgers participated in the St. Louis Business Diversity Initiative Fellows Program. In 2010, he helped to form the program’s alumni association and was elected to serve as its inaugural president.

PERSONAL FINANCE

months.)

If you moved this year, you can claim the deduction on your 2013 taxes even if you haven’t yet met the time test, provided you expect to during the coming year. If you later fail to meet the time test, you must reverse the deduction, either by including the amount as “other income” on your 2014 tax return, or by filing an amended 2013 return.

Qualified moving expenses include:

ï Costs for packing and transporting household goods, personal effects, pets and vehicles.

ï Fees to disconnect and/or connect utilities.

This year, Rodgers joined the United Way of Greater St. Louis’ Multicultural Leadership Society. In January, Rodgers joined the board of directors for Wyman, Inc.

ï Travel costs for you and household members to the new home. (Meals cannot be charged).

ï Use of your car during the move.

ï Storing and insuring your possessions for up to 30 days.

ï Note: Family members needn’t move at the same time nor by the same means of transportation.

Expenses that do not qualify include:

ï Expenses of buying or selling a home, including closing costs, mortgage fees, house-hunting expenses, home improvements or new furnishings.

ï Loss on the sale of your

The 14th Annual Salute to Excellence in Business Awards & Networking Luncheon will be held Thursday, November 14 at the Ritz-Carlton, St.Louis.

Michelle D.Tucker,Bank of America

Michelle D. Tucker, a senior vice president of Bank of America, is currently responsible for strategic oversight and management of the company’s multi-million dollar local grant and sponsorship budgets across Missouri and parts of Illinois. She works as a member of the Global Marketing and Corporate Affairs team, part-

old home.

ï Charges for signing or breaking a lease.

ï Fees for new car tags or driver’s license in your new locale.

ï Expenses incurred on side trips en route to your new home (e.g., sightseeing).

ï Security deposits (including any given up due to the move).

ï Also, you cannot take a moving expense deduction and a business expense deduction for the same expenses.

See IRS Publication 521 for all eligible and ineligible expenses and other details about the moving expense deduction. To file for the deduction, complete IRS Form 3903 and attach it to a Form 1040 Income Tax Return. You don’t need to complete a

nering directly with the bank’s Missouri state president in support of Bank of America’s corporate social responsibility and brandbuilding strategy, including community outreach and associate volunteerism.

She has served as a senior vice president for over 11 years, holding various leadership positions. Tucker was one of the establishing chapter chairs of the bank’s black professional affinity group in St. Louis. She also has served as a member of the bank’s national Consumer Real Estate Diversity Action Council. She serves as a board director for Epworth Children and Family Services and the Urban

AMEREN

Continued from B1

they thought diversity issues in the workplace will disappear once the so-called baby boomers retire.

“I think it’s a start,” Chief Fitch joked.

League of Metropolitan St. Louis. She also serves as vice president of FOCUS St. Louis’ Board of Directors and currently chairs its development committee.

Dexter Evans, Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals

Dexter Evans is the senior director of manufacturing at Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals. For 23 years, he has held leadership roles in manufacturing within the pharmaceutical industry.

At Mallinckrodt, he is responsible for the manufacturing operations of radiopharmaceutical plants in the United States and Europe. His facilities specialize in the making of sterile fill and terminally sterilized pharmaceuticals.

“My manufacturing organization supports more than

Adams said no because history “will revisit you.”

“What’s the norm for your generation will be revisited by subsequent generations as being ridiculous and difficult to deal with,” Adams said.

Schedule Aunless you are otherwise itemizing deductions. (You cannot claim moving expenses on a 1040EZ Form.) Also note: If your employer reimburses you for any deductible expenses, you must reduce your moving deduction by that amount; and, employer reimbursement for nondeductible expenses will likely be treated as wages on your W-2 Form. Take a few minutes to calculate whether you qualify for the moving expense deduction – you could save a bundle on your taxes.

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

$300 million in annual sales,” Evans said, “and we have a proven track record of successfully operating in a very demanding regulatory and customer service environment.” Evans earned his bachelor’s degree in marketing from Morris Brown College, and he also holds an MBAfrom Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. He is a graduate of the St. Louis Business Diversity Initiative Fellows Program. The 14th Annual Salute to Excellence in Business Awards & Networking Luncheon will be held Thursday, November 14, 2013 at the Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis, networking reception at 11 am, luncheon program at noon. Tickets are $100 for VIP/Preferred seating, $75 for general admission. Call 314533-8000 or visit www.stlamerican.com for more information or to purchase tickets.

He also stated that this is the first time in history where four separate generations have been in the workforce at one time. Because of this, he said, the next generation has an edge.

“If you’re able to learn from the challenges you had with the generation that was holding on for dear life to the power strings, you have the opportunity to make it better,” Adams said.

Shabsin agreed, stating that people are brought up by those in older generations who teach their children what they think is right or wrong.

“We all have stereotypes and ways we think the world works,” Shabsin said. “We should get real and understand who we are and bring that to the table, because that will be more helpful in determining how we go from here.”

Addington Stewart, south central regional director of the International Association of Black Professional Firefighters, wondered where we go from here. Stewart said it is time to stop talking and start implementing ideas regarding diversity and inclusion.

“I’m getting too old to be having a conversation,” said former Fire Chief Sherman George. “I’d like to see something done for these young people who want to have an opportunity.”

George said that racism still exists in the St. Louis community and across the nation and is the “silent killer” of young African-American men and women.

Chief Fitch responded that he will hire any qualified applicant and that employers should look to organizations like the NAACPas a recruiting agent to increase workplace diversity and inclusion.

Shabsin said the problem is that no one has defined best practices in terms of diversity and inclusion.

“One of the things that came out of this conversation is that the most important thing you can do in diversity and inclusion is to have courage,” said Sharon Harvey Davis, vice president, diversity and chief diversity officer at Ameren.

“Because it’s going to take each person individually having the courage and willing to confront something they see as wrong.”

Follow this reporter on Twitter: @BridjesONeil.

“My passion is always positive.It’s always positive. It’s going to remain the same way.”

– Dallas Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant,on his sideline outbursts during last weekend’s loss to the Detroit Lions

PREP FOOTBALL NOTEBOOK

With Earl Austin Jr.

State playoffs get underway

The state playoffs get underway for schools on both sides of the river. Here is the schedule for this week’s postseason action.

Missouri Class 6 (All games on Friday at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted) District 1 Parkway North at Eureka; Parkway South at Lindbergh, Marquette at Lafayette, Mehlville at Oakville.

District 2 Francis Howell North at Hazelwood Central, (Saturday, 1 p.m.); Pattonville at DeSmet, Hazelwood West at CBC, SLUH at Ritenour

District 3 Troy at Francis Howell, Timberland at Fort Zumwalt West, Columbia Hickman at Francis Howell Central, Rock Bridge at Jefferson City.

Missouri Class 5

(All games on Thursday, Oct. 31 at 7 p.m., unless otherwise noted) District 1

With Ishmael H.Sistrunk

And other questions entering a

Ishmael H. Sistrunk

Tuesday night kicked off the start of the 2013-14 NBA season, and with the season tip off comes plenty of questions for the upcoming season. Of course, any road to the championship must go through LeBron James and the mighty Miami Heat. The twotime defending championship squad returns for a three-peat attempt, largely with its championship roster still intact. While there’s no question the Heat will once again be a key ingredient in the championship mix, there are several unanswered questions around

The Nets have tremendously updated its team in talent – and in AARP points.

the league that may affect who, if anyone, can get in the way of their quest to Glory Road.

1. Is Derrick Rose back –forreal?

The short answer is yes. The Chicago Bulls’allworld point guard is finally back after a long, agonizing wait for Chi-town faithful. Rose went down with an ACL injury April 28, 2012 and missed the entire 2012-13 campaign while rehabbing his injured knee. The wait would have been less painful for fans

had the star, or the team, declared the former MVPout for the entire 2012-13 campaign early into the season. Instead, they dangled his possible return in front of fans like a carrot on a stick.

Ultimately, his knee was never strong enough to hop back in the lineup and, despite a fairly strong season without its star player, the Bulls were bounced by the eventual champs rather easily in the conference semifinals.

Rose’s confidence in his refurbished knee will go a long way in determining how much of a dogfight the Bulls put in up a surprisingly competitive Eastern Conference. The Nets, Knicks and Pacers have joined the Bulls in the arms race to

Red Birds and Sox, few black players

~ See ‘Claib’s Call’ page B4 ~

Fox at Summit, Seckman at Poplar Bluff, Vianney and Jackson have first-round byes

District 2 (Friday, Nov. 1 at 7 p.m.)

Chaminade vs. McCluer North (at Fort Zumwalt South), McCluer at Hazelwood East (2 p.m.), Riverview Gardens at Webster Groves. Kirkwood has a first-round bye District 3 (Friday, Nov. 1 at 7 p.m.)

Parkway West at Parkway North, Fort Zumwalt South at Fort Zumwalt North, Holt at Parkway Central. Fort Zumwalt East has a first-round

See PREP, B4

SIDE

With Maurice Scott,Jr.

Situation ‘Normal’ in ESL

Flyers head north for 14th consecutive playoff appearance

The football fans and alumni of East St. Louis Senior High School really enjoy this time of year. The leaves are falling, the weather is changing, and basketball season is right around the corner. It also means that the Flyers are in the state football playoffs again. East Side will face Normal West in the first round of the Illinois Class 6Aplayoffs on Saturday at 1 p.m. The Flyers have reached the playoffs for the 14th consecutive year, with expectations once again high for the team to go deep into the playoffs in 2013. After a 1-3 start, the Flyers are sporting a five-game winning streak. They are playing at a level that satisfies head football coach Darren Sunkett this time of year.

“I’m proud of this team,” Sunkett said. “After a few weeks of not playing our style of football, we have turned it around. Our goal is to play for the state championship on November 30.”

The Flyers have reached the playoffs for the 14th consecutive year, with expectations once again high for the team to go deep into the playoffs.

The last time the Flyers competed in Class 6Awas the 2000- 01 season, when then head coach Terry Hill’s team finished 73 after an openinground playoff loss. East Side had been competing in Class 7A up until this season. “Last time I checked the size of the state championship trophy, they were the same size,” Sunkett said. “These young men have gotten their playoff assignment, and we are looking forward to competing in Normal on Saturday afternoon.”

Normal West (8-1) finished second in the Big 12 Conference, with its only loss on the road inWeek 5 to cross-town rival Normal (Community) High, 35-21. The Normal West Wildcats love to run the football. Last week

Kobe Bryant suffered a devastating torn Achilles to end his season,but if anyone can overcome such an injury in his mid-30s it’s the success-obsessed Bryant.

Maurice Scott

See EAST SIDE, B4

Photo by Wiley Price

Earl Austin Jr.

Cleveland Jr.NROTC defensemen Michael Wells (1) and Brian Crump (18) try to pull down Clayton running back Cailer Keaton (2) during the Greyhounds 49-6 win Saturday at Southwest high School.

CLAIB’S CALL

With Mike Claiborne

Red Birds and Sox, few black players

This October has been the best sports month we have had around here in a long, long time, win or lose. Each situation has given us hope that things will be better. Some continue to remind us that it is what it is and there is no relief in sight. I for one, enjoy the conversation and the “what ifs?” At this stage, there is a whole lot to inhale. The question is: How quickly should we exhale?

The Cardinals and their fans have been scratching their heads over this World Series. There have been some strange endings, and the bats have gone cold. Losing the last game at home left many fans in a quandary.

World Series has the lowest AfricanAmerican participation since 1950.

Cardinal baseball has been an annual staple of October with respect to their playoff involvement and run for another World Series title. Baseball is good for the city. It creates good will, increases revenues and gives you the feeling that you are part of something positive. Even those who are not baseball fans – because the game is too slow or not enough African Americans play it – will sneak a peek this time of year.

For the record, this World Series has the lowest AfricanAmerican participation since 1950. In 1950, when the New York Yankees played the Philadelphia Phillies, there were no African-American players or coaches on either roster. This year, Boston’s Quintin Berry is the lone par-

CLUTCH

Continued from B3

unseat the Heat in the East. But don’t forget that Rose is the only player besides James to win an MVPaward in the past five seasons. He has looked solid in the pre-season, like a slightly less-explosive version of his old self with a better jumper. If D-Rose returns to MVP form, the Heat may have a problem.

ticipant of color from this country, and he appeared only in a pinch-running role.

Mizzou blew one

There have been more things to smile about when it comes to Missouri football, as the Tigers found themselves at 7-0 at one point this season. It also saw them ranked as high as 5th in the country, if you follow such items. I am one that does not subscribe to all that, as the system and the method of voting are too flawed. For those who do, bully for you.

But a funny thing happened on the way to 8-0 at Mizzou as the Tigers blew one against South Carolina. Yes, it happens. Reality set in on Matty Mauk and the fact that he is young and has to learn a few things. All of you who were ready to anoint him as a Heisman hopeful, have a seat

Boston’s Quintin Berry is the lone participant of color from this country in the 2013 World Series, and he appeared only in a pinchrunning role.

month of October. Someone thought it was a good idea to schedule a lot of home games in the month of October, when Blues fans had to be real, serious Blues fans by going to hockey games while still keeping track of the post-season Cardinals. It has been a great start for the team that many think will play well into the post-season. They already own a road victory over the Stanley Cup champion Chicago Blackhawks.

Brett Favre? Really?

The St. Louis Rams are the enigma of St. Louis sports. They have good, young talent and an experienced coaching staff. So how in the hell are they 3-5?

With quarterback Sam Bradford injured, the Rams still found a way of not-scoring on a fourth-and-goal to lose to Seattle on Monday. That was solely the fault of the coaching staff for poor play selection.

for a while. Still, there is hope that Missouri will have some serious bowl participation in January.

Blues howlers

St. Louis Blues fans had something to howl about in the

It is a sad day in football when Brett Favre can say no to a team in coming back to the game to help the Rams. It’s sad because he could not play the game himself at the end of his career. It’s sad for someone to think Favre is better than the available free agent options. That lets you know the game could be in trouble. I know there were Bradford haters out there, and they will see first-hand that he is better than what the Rams will run out there at quarterback for the remainder of the season. To give up on him now and draft another quarterback would signal that we need to start over again. Then again, that has been ongoing since Kurt Warner left some 10 years ago. Yes, another long season is in front of us when it comes to pro football.

2. Is Brooklyn forreal? No team has made more noise in the offseason than the Brooklyn Nets. By acquiring Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, Jason Terry and Andrei Kirilenko the Nets have tremendously updated its team in talent – and in AARPpoints. Garnett, Pierce and Terry are all north of 35 years old. Besides Pierce, all the newbies missed a fair amount of time last season due to injuries. Of course, the Heat fielded one of the oldest teams in the league the past two seasons and has championship bling to show for it. Then again, the Heat has a prime King James to balance out its age issues. Brooklyn doesn’t have the best player in the game, but it does field prime-aged All-Stars in Deron Williams and Brook Lopez to help take the pressure off the old fogies. If rookie coach Jason Kidd can find a way to balance the minutes of Pierce and Garnett and keep them away from the IR, the Nets could return a banner to the Burroughs.

ing the Los Angeles Lakers as the 12th best team in the Western Conference and rating Kobe Bryant as the 25th best player in the NBA. Sure, the 35-year old superstar suffered a devastating torn Achilles to end his season, but if anyone can overcome such an injury in his mid-30s it’s the successobsessed Bryant.

When Bryant learned of ESPN’s lowball rankings, he responded as we expected he might. The Black Mamba changed his Twitter avatar to “1225” as inspiration to come back at the top of the totem pole.

3. Can Kobe come back to make an impact? ESPN set the water coolers on fire this offseason by rank-

There’s no doubt in my mind that Bryant is still a topfive player if completely healthy. Still, it will be a long road back to respectability for Bryant and the Lakers. Number 24 probably has another great season left, but I’m not so sure this will be the one.

4. Which otherinjured stars will return to form?

The 2012-13 season was seemingly the year of the injured star. In addition to

Rose and Bryant, perennial All-Stars such as Russell Westbrook, Rajon Rondo, Dirk Nowitzki, Steve Nash and Kevin Love missed significant time or suffered season-ending injuries.

Of those players listed, only Westbrook’s Thunder is considered to be legitimate threats to the crown. Much of that potential will fall on Westbrook’s broad shoulders and delicate knees. Since he has already suffered a few setbacks, expect Oklahoma City to take its sweet time to ensure he’s ready before returning.

Nowitzki and Love could power surprising turnarounds for their teams. Both sweetshooting power forwards missed significant time last season as their teams watched the playoffs at home like the rest of us. Both teams made modest upgrades in the offseason and (if healthy) could push each other to reach the lower rungs of the playoff ladder out West.

Follow Ishmael and In the Clutch on Twitter @IshmaelSistrunk and on Google+.

PREP

Continued from B3 bye

District 4 (Friday, Nov. 1 at 7 p.m.)

Washington at Sedalia Smith Cotton

Missouri Class 4

District 1 (Thursday, Oct. 31 at 7 p.m.)

DeSoto at Hillsboro, North County at Sikeston, Farmington at Cape Girardeau Central, Perryville at Festus

District 2 (Friday, Nov. 1 at 7 p.m.)

Lutheran South vs. Vashon (at Sumner), Roosevelt at Affton, (Thursday, 7 p.m.), Windsor at St. Mary’s. (Miller Career Academy has a first-round bye)

District 3 (Thursday, Oct. 31, 7 p.m.

Pacific vs Ladue (at SLUH), Priory at Union, St. Clair at Sullivan, Borgia vs. Westminster (at Parkway North)

District 5 (Thursday, Oct. 31, 7 p.m.)

Normandy at St. Charles West, Gateway STEM at St. Charles, Jennings at Clayton (Nov. 1, 7 p.m.), University City vs. MICDS (at Kirkwood, 7 p.m.)

Missouri Class 3

District 2

DuBourg at St. James (Nov. 1), Kennedy at Cardinal Ritter (Oct. 31, 6 p.m.), Owensville at Soldan (Nov. 1, at Gateway Tech). John Burroughs has a first-round bye

District 5 (Thursday, Oct. 31 at 7 p.m.)

Winfield at Duchesne, Wright City at Orchard Farm (Nov. 1, 7 p.m.), Sumner vs. McCluer South-Berkeley, Trinity at Christian-O’Fallon.

Missouri Class 2

District 2 (Thursday, Oct. 31 at 7 p.m.)

Cleveland at Carnahan (at Gateway Tech), Principia at Transportation and Law (at Sumner), Maplewood at

Brentwood, Herculaneum at Lutheran North

Illinois State Playoff Pairings

Class 8A: O’Fallon at Neuqua Valley

Class 7A: Oswego East at Belleville West, Andrew at Edwardsville

Class 6A: East St. Louis at Normal West

Class 5A: Carbondale at Highland, Jerseyville at Bartonville Limestone

Class 4A: Althoff at Columbia, Alton Marquette at Herrin, Mater Dei at Olney East Richland

Class 3A: Breese Central at Mt. Carmel

EAST SIDE

Continued from B3 against Champaign Centennial, they piled up 611yards of total offense, with 479 yards coming on the ground. The Wildcats are led by running backs Dominique Stevenson, who had 179 yards on 21 carries last Friday, and Darin Bethke, who added 130 yards. Meanwhile, East St. Louis is rolling into the playoffs with its offense in high gear. The Flyers have outscored their opponents during the five-game winning streak, 242-40. They are playing with a chip on their shoulders after many jumped off the kids’ bandwagon six weeks ago. Leading the way is quarterback Dominic Nelson, who has thrown for 1,091 yards and 12 touchdowns in only six games. Nelson’s favorite target is freshmen wideout and return man Jeff Thomas. Thomas has 38 receptions for 691 yards and seven TDs. Thomas is a threat in the return game as well. Darren Sunkett’s team has a chance at State title No. 8! Good luck, ESLFlyers!

Mike Claiborne

With Palmer Alexander

The St.Louis Rams’Daryl Richardson runs through a huge hole in the Seattle defense Monday night in St.Louis.The Rams fell just short losing 14-9.

Rams lose winnable one

Dropped passes, penalties and questionable play-calling spell doom

If there was ever a time for Jeff Fisher to have the St. Louis Rams fired up and ready to kick some butt at home on Monday Night Football, that time came on Monday night against the 6-1 Seattle Seahawks and their dual-threat quarterback and MVPcandidate, Russell Wilson. But Seattle left St. Louis with a 14-9 win. The Rams put forth their most dominant effort to date this season –including their lopsided win a couple of weeks ago against the Houston Texans. Against the Seahawks, every member of the Rams defense recorded a tackle. The Rams defense constantly hit, hurried and harassed Wilson, tallying seven sacks against a weak offensive line. Six of those sacks were split between Chris Long and Robert Quinn, with one by William Hayes. Marshawn Lynch was very quiet in the Seattle backfield, with only 23 rushing yards against the Rams. On offense, Zac Stacy

showed his stuff before a national audience that was flipping back and forth between this football game and the World Series. Stacy ran for 134 yards on 26 carries against one of the best run defenses in the NFL. Daryl Richardson didn’t do bad, either, chipping in 39 yards on eight carries. The Rams had 200 yards on the ground.

Against the Seahawks, every member of the Rams defense recorded a tackle.

This bruising smash-mouth style of football is what the Rams are going to need if they ever want to win another game this season. The Rams also won the time of possession battle by more than 17 minutes. This was a winnable game. But the Rams still lost. The Rams shoot themselves in the foot, or hoof, so much they should start parking ambulances where they park the team bus. The dropped passes, penalties, and questionable

Brian Wallace of Christian Brothers College High School has been selected to play in the 2014 U.S.Army All-American Bowl on Saturday, January 4,2014,at the Alamodome in San Antonio,Texas.The annual East vs.West match-up will be televised live on NBC at noon CST and will feature the nation’s top 90 high school football players.“Wallace is a talented athlete whose leadership and teamwork qualities have made him a standout at Christian Brothers College High School,”said Mark Davis,deputy assistant secretary of the Army for marketing.In the 2013 NFL Draft,eight U.S.Army All-American Bowl alumni were drafted in the first round.

T. LOUIS AMERICAN

Prep Athlete of the Week

Marcus Jester

DeSmet – Football

The senior running back enjoyed a record-breaking performance in the Spartans 75-0 victory over Parkway North last Thursday night.

Jester rushed for 242 yards on 19 carries and scored eight touchdowns, which set a new state record. He scored on runs of 9,5,5,38, 16, 5, 26 and 25 yards.

For the season, Jester has rushed for 779 yards and scored 25 touchdowns. He is averaging nearly seven yards per carry. Jester has already committed to play football at Illinois State University.

DeSmet will host Pattonville in the Class 6, District 2 playoffs on Friday night at 7 p.m.

play-calling doomed them. When is this going to stop?

How do you trust Kellen Clemens to throw a forward pass on the last play of the game? Zac Stacy and the running game were the Rams’best friends all game long. Yes, Stacy was hobbled by an ankle injury, but after seeing how Daryl Richardson got knocked absolutely backwards by Seahawks safety Earl Thomas, I thought maybe the Rams would give it to Stacy again.

There are plenty of positives in this loss for the Rams that might help them in the rest of the season. The gang-tackling has returned. The highpressure schemes have finally been unleashed by Tim Walton, with positive results. We saw a much-improved running game from the new thunder-and-lightning combination of Richardson and Stacy. However, the less Kellen Clemens throws the football, the better their chances of winning are. The Rams need to keep him under 25 throws. The season isn’t lost yet. But, should the Rams lose this Sunday against the Tennessee Titans, kiss the playoffs goodbye – again – if you haven’t already.

Palmer L. Alexander

Wells Fargo partners with SLPS

Hands on Banking program brings financial literacy to middle schoolers

By Shelly Shepard For The St.Louis American

In a first for the program, Wells Fargo’s Hands on Banking is partnering with a metropolitan school district to use its curriculum as a source of financial education for students.

In conjunction with the Missouri Council on Economic Education, a nonprofit that promotes economic and financial education in the state’s schools, Wells Fargo’s Hands on Banking course for teens will be incorporated into social studies classes at 11 St. Louis public middle schools.

Wells Fargo Community Development Vice President Laraine Davis, who orchestrated the partnership, said it “took tremendous trust and teamwork among Wells Fargo, the school district and the council to achieve this groundbreaking collaboration.”

Mike English, president and CEO of the Missouri Council on Economic Education, said, “The district had a need for financial training, and I saw Hands on Banking as a good fit to integrate into the social studies curriculum. And the online Hands on Banking training is so well done that it will really keep the kids engaged.”

The State of Missouri requires all students to pass a high school personal finance class to graduate. This requirement, English said, leads him to believe that the Hands on Banking program would be a good fit for schools throughout the state.

Davis said that English worked to imbed the Hands on Banking material into the school curriculum, which will make things much easier for

the teachers. She also worked with Georin LaGrant, a senior securities operations specialist with Wells Fargo Advisors, on getting the district’s buy-in.

“Georin volunteers with the school district and knows some of the administrators, and he was of tremendous value to the process,” Davis said.

Wells Fargo and the council hosted a workshop on Aug. 7 in St. Louis at the Wells Fargo Advisors campus for about 45 teachers. Davis said that the workshop stressed that the goal

“By teaching our students to manage money effectively, we are equipping them with the tools they need to make informed decisions.”

– GegiMara Ra-El

is for teachers and students to use the knowledge outside the classroom, as well.

“I heard positive feedback from several of the teachers, many who said that the classes

would be helpful for their church group or scouts, too,” Davis said. “We also introduced them to Hands on Banking for seniors and the military, to show them how

extensive the curriculum is.”

“I’m so excited about infusing this material into our middle schools,” English said. “It will help lay a great foundation for students as they grow and have an increasing need for financial knowledge.”

GegiMara Ra-El, social studies curriculum specialist for St. Louis Public District, said, “Quality of life is substantially influenced by an individual’s level of financial literacy. By teaching our students to manage money effec-

GegiMara Ra-El, social studies curriculum specialist for St.Louis Public Schools,and Laraine Davis,community development vice president for Wells Fargo

tively, we are equipping them with the tools they need to make informed decisions.”

Hands on Banking provides free financial education resources for kids, teens, adults, entrepreneurs, seniors and the military. In 2012, about 2,800 team members volunteered, reaching just over 153,000 people in schools and community centers across the U.S. For more information, visit www.handsonbanking.org.

Photo by Wiley Price

Stevie vs. Donny

Will Robinson and The Soul Experience take on R&B masters at The Kranzberg

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

“It’s not necessarily a competition thing, but it’s about us showcasing them as two of the greatest singer songwriters in the world of R&B,” Will

said.

As singer and front man for The Soul Experience, Robinson will perform the music of Stevie Wonder and St. Louis native Donny Hathaway at the Kranzberg Arts Center on Friday, November 8. “I want them to be able to sing along to their favorite songs that they don’t get a chance to hear live very often,” Robinson said. “I’m bringing out a lot of material that I haven’t touched yet. We’re jumping in the crates.”

Wonder is one of the most prolific artists in contemporary music with a career that has spanned five decades since he burst on the scene

in 1963 at the tender age of 13 with “Fingertips: Part II,” thanks to Motown. Hathaway had a much briefer journey. Although he only recorded five albums (two with Howard University classmate and friend

Will Robinson and The Soul Experience will perform the songs of Stevie Wonder and Donny Hathaway Friday, November 8 at The Kranzberg Arts Center, 501 N. Grand.

in soul music nearly 35 years

Season of understated styles

By Danie Rae, Style Broker

For The St. Louis American

It’s no secret that fall is in full effect.

Being my favorite season, I am hyped about wearing layers and experimenting with different fabric textures.

This fall season, it’s all about having understated style. I know that can be a little vague, but basically, less is more. Now, don’t get me wrong. Bling will never go out of style. But this season, it’s all about letting the clothing speak for itself.

I’m dishing on the most popular styles to look out for this season and giving a glimpse at the hottest ready-towear pieces from The Limited (Galleria location) paired with the illest fall ambiance to showcase how to stay fly for fall. It doesn’t matter if it’s black or white. Black and white will forever be a style staple. One could never go wrong. If I had a penny for every time I’ve said, “Black looks good on everybody,” I would be Oprah ballin’.

But it’s the truth. Black does a body good.

And being that no one follows oldschool fashion rules anymore, white can be worn all year. This season some of the industry’s top designers, like Givenchy, Saint Laurent and Chanel, are keeping the color palette simple and chic with the use of these understated colors.

Photos: Lawrence Bryant

Hair: Kristopher Wilkerson

Makeup: Joy Loveless

Styling: Danie Rae, Style Broker

Models: Brittney Mckinnes and Leiko Mai

The ‘90s are back. The 1990s were a prosperous time for our country, so it’s only natural for us to want to return to the good times when everything that was big was better. Girls would rock oversized clothing, like their dad’s jeans, flannels and even boxers, to achieve that “gangsta boo” style.

Well, it’s time to raid a guy’s closet again for the oversized gear to get fresh. Or if that’s taking the trend too far, try incorporating simple style cues like tying a coordinating jacket around the waist or wearing a thick, chunky belt as your

FASHION, C4

John E. Rozelle hosts show for North St. Louis Arts Council at RAC

By Chris King Of The St. Louis American Award-winning contemporary artist and St. Louis native John E. Rozelle is offering his paintings and collages in a two-day art sale to benefit North St. Louis Arts Council.

On Friday, November 1 from 4-8 p.m. and again Saturday, November 2 from 12-4 p.m., Rozelle is hosting the sale of his work at the Regional Arts Commission, 6128 Delmar in conference room B on the second floor. The original artwork ranges in price from $25 to $1,000. Rozelle is associate professor emeritus in the drawing and painting department in the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. He received his bachelor of fine arts from Washington University, after defecting to visual art from his initial interest in engineering.

“The painter Manuel Hughes introduced me to the work of Romare Bearden in a class titled ‘Black Art’ when I was an engineering student,” Rozelle said. “Later, as I switched to visual arts, I became more acquainted with this wonderful work, and the drawings and watercolors were useful in digesting Picasso and other cubists.”

He went on to earn an a M.F.A. New

film portrays free black man sold into slavery

By Kenya Vaughn

In Steve McQueen’s film 12 Years a Slave, Chiwetel Ejiofor stars as Solomon Northup, a free black man in upstate New York duped and sold into slavery in the South.

“Man Child/Voodum Child,” 48 x 24 inches, mixed media on paper mounted on fiber panel, 1999-2012, by John E. Rozelle

Comic staple Sinbad will bring his classic brand of clean comedy to St. Louis when he takes the stage at the Peabody Opera House Saturday night.

Robinson

Roberta Flack) before mental illness cut his career and life tragically short, Hathaway’s influence is still felt

How to place a calendar listing

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

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

concerts

Sun., Nov. 3, 4:30 p.m., Sheldon Concert Hall 25th Anniversary Celebration feat. Oleta Adams. 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit www.sheldonconcerthall.org or call (314) 533-9900.

Thur., Nov. 7, 7 p.m., The Mildred Times Foundation forPancreatic Cancer presents 9th Annual Fall Benefit Concert feat. Denise Thimes. ATribute to the Late Great Songstress Phyllis Hyman. The Voices of Zambia Men’s Chours and Comedienne Monique Marvez will perform. The Sheldon Concert Hall, 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, call (314) 773-0337 or visit www.metrotix.com.

Mon. Nov. 11, 7:30 p.m., The Scottrade Center presents P!NK: All about the truth Love Tour. 1401 Clark Ave., 63103. For more information, visit www.scottradecenter.com or call (314) 622-5435.

Mon., Nov. 11, 8 p.m., The Old Rock House presents Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue. Troy ‘Trombone Shorty’Andrews has Godgiven talent, natural charisma and a relentless drive to bridge music’s past and future. In a very real sense, the torch is passed from one great New Orleans band to another on the new album. 200 South 7th St., 63104. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com.

Fri., Nov. 15, 5 p.m., The Sheldon presents Friends of the Sheldon, featuring Audra McDonald. Unparalleled in the breadth and versatility of her artistry as both singer and actress, with a record-tying five Tony Awards, most recently for Porgy and Bess, two Grammy Awards, and a long list of other accolades to her name. 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com.

Tues. Nov. 19, 8 p.m., The Scottrade Center presents The 20/20 Experience World Tour: Justin Timberlake 1401 Clark Ave., 63103. For more information, visit www.scottradecenter.com or call (314) 622-5435.

Nov. 30, 13 Black Katz welcome Kindred: The Family Soul, Grand Renaissance Hotel, 800 Washington. For more information, call (314) 288-9988 or visit http://13blackkatz.com/

Wed., Dec. 4, 7 p.m., The Sheldon presents Lynne Fiddmont feat. Jazz Saxophonist Keith Fiddmont Besides touring with Stevie Wonder, Lynne has explored many musical ventures with artists such as Phil Collins, Whitney Houston, Babyface, Queen Latifah, B.B.King, Elton John, Nancy Wilson, Dave Brubeck, George Duke, Kenny Loggins, Eric Benet, and many more. 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit ww.metrotix.com.

local gigs

Fridays through December, 8 p.m., The Precinct presents R&B Saxophonist Tim Cunningham. 1900 Locust Ave., 63103. For more information, call (314) 588-8899 or visit www.timcunningham.com.

Saturdays, 3 p.m., The Kendrick Smith Quartet, Premier Lounge, 5969 Dr. Martin Luther King Drive. For more information, call (314)385-5281 or e-mail crusadersforjazz@hotmail.com.

Sundays, 6 p.m., Chuck Flowers Live, InSpot, 5854 Delmar.For more information, visit www.artistecard.com/cflowers

Sundays, 6:30 p.m. (6 p.m. doors) Jazz @ Eventide, featuring Black and White Trio

CALENDAR

Sip N Savor, 286 DeBaliviere, 1/2 block north of the Forest park Metro link. For more information, call (314)3612116.

special events

Through Oct. 31, The Butterfly House presents Owls and Orchids. Our collection of owl butterflies expands to more than 1,000 during October, so come in and watch them up close during the day, or catch them in flight during special Tuesday evening hours. Meet other nocturnal creatures from the St. Louis Zoo and the World Bird Sanctuary when they join the fun on Tuesdays. 15193 Olive Blvd., 63017. For more information, call (636) 530-0076 or visit www.butterflyhouse.org.

Sat., Nov. 2, 9 p.m., Bubbling Brown SugarProductions presents Miss Fannie’s Ball 2013. The Ambassador, 9800 Halls Ferry, 63136. For more information, call (314) 8699090.

tion call (314) 389-4804 or visit www.projcope.org.

Sat., Nov. 9, 9 a.m., Tower Grove Park hosts Race for Home 5K & 10K and 1 Mile Walk. The walk is benefitting Peter & Paul Community Services’work with those who are homeless. 4256 Magnolia Ave., 63110. For more information, call (314) 588-7111 ext. 203.

Sat., Nov. 9, 9 a.m., Cupcake 5K Run & Walk. Aclassic battle between those who eat and those who compete will pit speedy runners against speedy eaters in a battle between foot and mouth. Benefiting Lift For Life Academy- St. Louis’first charter school serving city children. 5300 Wells Ave., 63110. For more information, call (314) 862-1188.

Thur., Nov. 14, 11 a.m., World Wide Technology, Inc. and the St. Louis American Newspaper present 14th Annual Salute to Excellence in Business. Awards & networking luncheon honoring Jimmie Williams, Adrian Bracy, and Rodney Gee. RitzCarlton, St. Louis, 100 Carondelet Plaza, 63105. For tickets and more information, call (314) 533-8000.

anchor, Christine Buck will emcee the evening. 700 Clarks St., 63102. For more information, visit www.dapstl.org.

Fri., Nov. 15, 6 p.m., Norwood Hills Country Club hosts WINE Sip For Scholarship. The 5th Annual National Coalition of 100 Black Women – St. Louis Chapter (NCBW) wine tasting, recognizes phenomenal women in St. Louis. The proceeds from this event will be used to provide free programming to the St. Louis community and scholarships for women who return to college to complete their education. One Norwood Hills Country Club Dr., 63121. For more information, call (314) 363-6835.

Sat., Nov. 16, 10a.m.-2p.m., Pleasant Grove Church host Homeless Toiletry Drive. Eta Mu Sigma and Zeta Sigma St. Louis Alumnae Chapters of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. are requesting that you bring travel size toiletries to be donated to Homeless Ministries. 2411 Belle Glade Ave. 63113. For more information, visit www.sgrho-etamusigma.org.

Sat., Nov. 16, 7:30 p.m., The Washington University Black Alumni Council cordially invites you to join them in celebrating 30 years Featuring the High Velocity Band! The kickoff event will take place at the 560 Music Center Ballroom, 560 Trinity Ave., 63130. For more information call (314) 935-6543, or visit www.Edison.wustl.edu.

Sun., Nov. 17, 1 p.m., Santa’s Helpers, Inc.Warehouse hosts Santa’s Helpers annual silent auction. ASt. Louis non-profit organization that provides gifts during the holidays to under resourced and seriously ill children and their families since 1968, bid on a number of great items, including: Disney World one day park-hopper passes for family of four, Footballs signed by the St. Louis Rams, Baseballs signed by the St. Louis Cardinals, other sports memorabilia, and much more.1401 Pierce Ave., 63110. For more information, call (314) 6471800.

Thurs., Nov. 14, 5:30 p.m., Busch Stadium hosts Annual Diversity Dinner, which will feature cultural entertainment by local performers and a silent auction. Dr. Elizabeth (Beth) J. Stroble, President of Webster University, will present opening remarks and news

Nov.29 – Dec. 1, The America’s Centerplaza presents Holiday Magic. Celebrate the holidays at this familyfriendly weekend show that offers a variety of entertainment and shopping options, including full-scale carnival rides, trackless train rides, and a vendor district full of exhibitors and gift ideas. Photos with Santa are also available. 701 Convention Plz., 63101. For more information, visit www.stlholidaymagic.com. Thursdays, 7 p.m. (6 p.m. practice), The Cultural Bop Society

or info:sumneralumniassn@ yahoo.com

Sun., Nov. 3, 5 p.m., The Polish Heritage Center hosts Project COPE’S 28th Anniversary Gala. ‘Celebrating Second Chances.” Project COPE provides community re-entry support for selected ex-offenders through faith-based volunteer team partnerships and transitional housing. 1413 N. 20th St.63106. For more informaAmeren Missouri Thanksgiving Day Parade. The Midwest’s best holiday parade features colorful floats, bands, storybook characters, carriages, equestrian units and Santa Claus as it winds through downtown St. Louis to kick off the holiday season. The parade begins at North 4th Street and Washington Avenue, proceeds South on North 4th Street to Market Street, continues West on Market Street and ends at 10th Street. For more information, visit www.christmasinstlouis.org.

Fri., Nov. 22, 5 p.m., Kiener Plaza in Downtown St. Louis presents Macy’s Festival of Lights. Downtown St. Louis will hold the official start of the holiday season by turning on the Christmas lights. Special holiday activities and a fireworks display will be held.

5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. with an after party from 7:30 p.m.9:00 p.m. 500 Pine St., 63101. For more information, visit www.christmasinstlouis.org.

Sat., Nov. 23, 9 a.m., ManchesterUnited Methodist Church host Annual FairTrade Market Market filled with Fair Trade goods, including chocolate, from all over the world! Enjoy the huge selection of home décor, holiday decorations, jewelry, clothing, toys, food, and much more. Fair trade means that artisans, farmers and producers earn a living wage for their work and much more. 129 Woods Mill Rd., 63011. For more information, visit www.manchesterumc.org/ftm.

Thurs., Nov. 28, 8:45 a.m. Downtown St. Louis presents

Nov. 2, 8 p.m., The Peabody Opera House welcomes Sinbad. Peabody Opera House, 1400 Market. For more information, visit www.peabodyoperahouse.com or call (314) 499-7600.

Sat., Nov. 2, 3 p.m.,Nu Art Series and The Scott Joplin House present Dream Carriers starring Shirley Bradley LeFlore, Scott Joplin House historic site, 2658 Delmar. For More information, call (314) 340-5790 or visit http://www.thenu-artseries.org/ Sat. Nov 9, 3 p.m., Nu Art Series and The Scott Joplin House present Dream Carriers starring Michael Castro, Scott Joplin House historic site, 2658 Delmar. For More information, call (314) 340-5790 or visit http://www.thenu-artseries.org/ Sat., Nov. 16, 3 p.m., Nu Art Series and The Scott Joplin House present Dream Carriers starring Marsha Cann, Scott Joplin House his-

The Nu Art Series and The Scott Joplin House present Dream Carriers starring Shirley Bradley LeFlore.See LITERARY for details.

toric site, 2658 Delmar. For More information, call (314) 340-5790 or visit http://www.thenuartseries.org/

theatre

Oct. 31- Nov. 3, Touhill

Performing Arts Center presents ForColored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When The Rainbow Is Enuf, performed by UMSL’s Theatre, Dance and Media Arts Departments. One University Blvd. 63121. For ticket information log on to www.touhill.org or call (314) 516-4949 One University Blvd. 63121

Nov. 1- 3, The Fox Theater presents Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. The smash hit Broadway musical, is coming to St. Louis! Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature film, this classic musical love story is filled with unforgettable characters, lavish sets and costumes, and dazzling production numbers. 527 N Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com or call (314) 534-1678.

Through Nov. 2, New Line Theatre presents Night of the Living Dead. Washington University South Campus Theater,6501 Clayton Rd., 63105. For more information visit www.metrotix.com.

Fri., Nov. 8, 6:30 p.m., Guest Who’s Coming To Dinner, Awoman’s Christian upbringing is tested, Please come and see what she will do in this original Christian/Musical/Comedy.

St. James A.M.E. Church, 4301 St. Ferdinand. For more information, call (314) 3710687.

Through Nov. 10, The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Fly. Based on the experiences of the Tuskegee Airmen, this inspiring story follows four courageous young AfricanAmerican pilots as they train to fly combat aircraft during World War II. 130 Edgar Rd., 63119. For more information, call (314) 968-4925 or visit www.repstl.org.

Nov. 19 – Dec. 1, The Fox Theater presents SisterAct. 527 N Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com or call (314) 534-1678.

Dec.4 – Dec. 22, The Black Rep presents Black Nativity –AHoliday Celebration, Harris-Stowe State University Emerson Performance Center. For more information, call (314) 534-3807 or visit www.theblackrep.org.

Thurs., Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m., The Fox Theater presents A Christmas Carol. 527 N Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com.

Jan 8 – Jan. 26, The Black Rep presents The Meeting, Harris-Stowe State University Emerson Performance Center. For more information, call (314) 534-3807 or visit www.theblackrep.org.

arts

Through November1, “Curious Industry,” a new installation by poly-media artist Eto Otitigbe that combines sculpture, performance and moving image, The Gallery of Contemporary Art at St. Louis Community College-Forest Park, 5600 Oakland Ave. The opening reception will be 6-9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11, with a performance at 7:30 p.m. The gallery is located in the Library building. The gallery is open 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday through Thursday, or by appointment.

Through Nov. 4, 10th Street Gallery’s presentation of East St. Louis native Abraham Lincoln Walker (1921-1993). This unforgettable exhibition was curated by Dr. Jacquelyn Lewis Harris, Associate Professor of Education andDirector of the Connecting Human Origin & Cultural Diversity program at the University of Missouri, St. Louis. 419 N. 10th Street. For more information, call 314436-1806 or visit www.10thstreetgallery.com.

Sat., Nov. 16, 9 a.m., Bridgeton Machinist Hall hosts Unique Treasures VendorShow. Gobble up some great deals from local crafters, vendors and small business owners. Get a jump on your Christmas shopping list during this holiday arts and crafts show. 12365 St. Charles Rock Road 63044. For more information, visit www.uniquetreasures.ayg2.com.

Sat., Nov. 16, 7 p.m., St. Louis Contemporary Art Museum presents Choice Art 2013. This unique social affair and art auction will include a juried selection of local and national art, hors d’oeuvres, signature drinks, and a fantastic opportunity to meet new and like-minded people.It is an evening of cocktails and conversation, but most importantly, it’s an art show and auction that supports the crucial reproductive health care and education work Planned Parenthood does in our community. 3750 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, call (314) 535-4660 or visit www.choiceart.org.

Through Jan. 6, Rashid Johnson: Message to Our Folks. Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum, Washington University, One Brookings Dr., 63130. For more information, call (314) 935-4523.

lectures

Fri., Nov. 1, 6 p.m., Avenues of Activism: An Evening with Michelle Alexander. Acclaimed civil rights lawyer and legal scholar, Michelle Alexander, will discuss her book, The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness, which challenges the civil rights community – and all of us – to place mass incarceration at the forefront of a new movement for racial justice in America. Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell Blvd., 63112. For more information, call (314) 746-4599 or visit www.mohistory.org.

Wed., Dec. 11 6:30 p.m., The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis host FAFSA Workshop. Learn about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), including the part it plays in the college application process. Why it is important to complete the form accurately and submit it as early as possible when seeking financial aid. For more information, call 314-725-7990 or visit www.sfstl.org.

health

Nov. 2., SSM Health CareSt. Louis is offering FREE Seasonal Flu Vaccinations Walk-ins are welcome, but vaccine availability is not guaranteed without reserving a time. Since the vaccines are injection only (no Flu Mist), attendees are asked to wear appropriate clothing for easy access to their upper arms. There is a limited supply of preservative-free vaccines for pregnant women only. For people who can’t make one of the free clinics, SSM Urgent Care is offering vaccinations for anyone ages nine and older and are available without an appointment between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. daily. Attendees are asked to call 1-866-SSMDOCS (776-3627) or register online at www.ssmhealth.com/fluto schedule an appointment during the clinic times.

Sat., Nov. 2, 8 a.m. , FREE public flu clinics offered by SSM Health Care - St. Louis SSM DePaul Health CenterMay Center, 12303 DePaul Drive, Bridgeton, MO 63044.

Sat., Nov. 2, 8 a.m., The Black Women Breast Cancer SurvivorProject presents Black Women & Breast Cancer: The Knowledge is PowerConference. This conference is free.Breakfast and lunch provided. The Mammogram Van from Siteman Cancer Center will be offering screening by appointment. Please bring your insurance card with you. Please bring non-perishable canned food to support Food

Sheldon Concert Hall 25th Anniversary Celebration featuring Oleta Adams.See CONCERTS for more information.

Outreach. Space is limited to the first 300 registrants –please register early. Millennium Student Center, UMSL, North Campus. For more information and to register, visit pcs.umsl.edu/bwbc or call (314) 516-5994.

Sun., Nov. 3rd, 2 p.m., Understanding the Health Insurance Marketplace in Missouri. Jen Bersdale of Mo. Health Care for All, a non-partisan, faith & community based grassroots movement, will explain what the new Marketplace is, who can shop in it, what’s for sale, and how to get help.

Transfiguration Episcopal Church, 1860 Lake St. Louis Blvd. Located 3/4 mile So. of Interstate 70 at the Lake St. Louis exit. www.transfigurationchurch.org

Nov. 7 – 9, Church of God in Christ’s Health Fair. St. Louis County Health will be present. Free ask the doctor sessions. Screenings offered include total cholesterol, blood pressure, STD/HIVtesting, and more. America’s Center, 701 Convention Plaza, 63101. For more information, call (314) 342-5036 or visit www.cogic.org.

Thur., Nov. 7, 6 p.m., St. Louis Children’s Hospital Foundation at GreaterSt. Paul Missionary Baptist Church presents Children’s Asthma, “Building a Healthy Community Together.” 5503 Gilmore Ave., 63120. RSVP by Oct. 31 to (314) 545-5437.

Thur., Nov. 14, 6:30 p.m., Memory Care hostsannual event, Memories and Melodies Over 3,500 caregivers benefit from our programs annually. In the last 18 months, families in the lowincome bracket being seen by Memory Care Home Solutions increased to 85 percent; there has never been a greater time for your support. Starlight Room, Chase Park Plaza, 212 N. Kingshighway Blvd., 63108. For more information, call (314) 645-6247.

Sat., Nov. 16, 9:30 p.m., Coventry Health Care pres-

ents HealthFest. Established in 2003, it is a one-day event featuring educational booths from a variety of area health professionals and health-related organizations. They offer free information, health screenings for all ages, giveaways, and more. HealthFest’s mission is to provide education to visitors/families about current issues and research, information about services available to the community, and introductions to careers in healthrelated fields. 5050 Oakland Ave., 63110. For more information, call (314) 289-4400.

St. Peter’s United Church of Christ in Ferguson is partnering with the Muslim Community of St. Louis physicians to provide free basic healthcare to adults. The clinic is offered at the St. Peter’s UCC at no charge each Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on a walk-in basis. Call 314-521-5694 for more information.

Monday – Thursday, 9 – 12 a.m. & 1 p.m. – 3 p.m., Free Confidential HIVTesting. Results are available in 20 minutes. No appointments necessary. Anyone testing positive will be linked with quality HIVmedical care and there is assistance available for those who are uninsured.

Washington University Infectious Disease Clinic, 4570 Childrens Place, 63110. For more information, call (314) 747-1237 or (314) 747-1237.

spiritual

Nov. 4 – 12, The Church of God in Christ 106th Holy Convocation. Event highlights include COGIC Health Fair, 4th Annual Job Fair, “Christmas in November,” and Annual Presiding Bishop’s Scholarship Banquet. The America’s Center, 701 Convention Plaza, 63101. For more information, call (314) 342-5036 or visit www.cogic.org

Fri. Nov. 8, 6:30 p.m., Memorial Tabernacle Christian Life Center pres-

ents Wisdom OverHustle Music Label Launch/Youth Explosion. Acelebration of a new Christian Record Label in St Louis. National Recording Christian Hip Hop Artist ‘Scooda’& wife Nisie have combined with the Memorial Tabernacle Christian Life Center Youth Ministries to bring a gospel explosion for youth of all ages. Scheduled Artists are: ChurchBoy, Mike Real, STLien, Wisdom Over Hustle Music Praise Team, and headlining for the first time in 10 years ‘Scooda’. 1350 South Lafayette Street Florissant, 63031. If you or your church would like to bring your youth please feel free to email: wisdomoverhustle@ gmail.com.

Sun. Nov. 10, 5 p.m., Dello Thedford and the Gospel Symphonic Choir present the 2013 Joe and Ethel Thedford Scholarship Concert, at Shalom Church (City of Peace), 5491 N. Hwy. 67, 63034.

Nov. 17, 4 p.m., 20th Anniversary Celebration forThe W.J. Ellis Morning Gospel Choir, 8645 Goodfellow Blvd., St. Louis, MO63147. For more information, call (314) 381-5730.

Fri., Nov.1 , 12 Years a Slave starring Chiwetel Ejiofor and Brad Pitt opens in theatres nationwide.

Thurs., Nov. 7, 6:30 p.m., Central Library Cinema presents, APryor Engagement, a film series showcasing the films and comedy of Richard Pryor. The film series will kick-off with Richard Pryor: Live on the Sunset Strip.This evening will also showcase three local comedians performing 10-minute sets before the film as openers for Richard Pryor - featuring Nick Branson, Jack Daniels and Kenny Kinds. 1301 Olive St., 63103. For more information, visit http://www.slpl.org.

Sat., Nov. 16, 1 p.m., Film Workshop with Olivia Block, Sandra Gibson, and Luis Recoder. New Music Circle will host a workshop and talk with artists Olivia Block, Sandra Gibson, and Luis Recoder. The artists will demonstrate their extended approaches to film and sound. Contemporary Art Museum, 3750 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, call (314) 535-4660 or visit www.camstl.org/nmcworkshop.

Sun., Nov. 24, 6 p.m., Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis presents Reconversão. Afree screening of Thom Andersen’s film investigation into the work of Portuguese architect and 2011 Pritzker Prize-winner Eduardo Souto de Moura. Afterward, enjoy complimentary Stella Artois and music by KDHX DJ Rob Levy as SLIFF announces the audience-choice and juried competition awards. 3750 Washington Blvd. 63108. For more information, visit, camstl.org.

from Fontbonne University, with major emphasis in painting and minor concentration in sculpture. A fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts and artist-in-residence at the Studio Museum in Harlem followed.

Before leaving St. Louis, Rozelle joined the Board of Directors of the North St. Louis Arts Council founded by his Washington University classmate, photographer Larry Clark. The council began in 1982 with the dual mission of bringing arts into the community and supporting African-American artists in the community.

Founded 31 years ago out of Walbridge School in

Walnut Park by Clark and educator Mary Ferguson, the organization has provided performances, artists in residence, and art exhibits in schools, community centers and senior citizens homes and other venues throughout the city.

“The art sale is another expression of the North St. Louis Arts Council’s vision of ‘bringing you and art together,’” Rozelle said. Rozelle will share proceeds from the art sale with the North St. Louis Arts Council to continue its programming for youth and adults.

As for the work itself, it is mostly mixed media, a medium that Rozelle finds conducive to “object-making practices” common to Africa and the Diaspora.

“I share this mixed media experience with many other artists, and it can be found in abundance among African-

American artists,” Rozelle said. “In some societies, magical powers or mystical properties are often bestowed on what appears to be, to the uninitiated, apparently unrelated objects. I try to find spiritual connections in this object-making. African sensibilities are used in the presentation of contemporary social/political concerns, much like objects in use in African societies where traditional practices exist today.”

A prolific painter and collagist, Rozelle has been awarded top honors and his work is housed among various museum, private and corporate collections.

For more information about the North St. Louis Arts Council, contact Larry Clark at 636-3463422 or Mary Ferguson at maryferguson518@gmail.com

12 Years a Slave tells this story visually, with slaves crying out as they are bought and sold like livestock, enduring backbreaking labor in the cotton picking, and suffering unspeakable violence at the hands of vicious masters and overseers. In his screenplay, John Ridley presents cruel paradoxes from the age of slavery.

Masters provided worship services featuring intentionally misconstrued Bible passages that, they believed, justified their actions. Girls forced to endure sexual torture won a special place in the hearts of the masters who lusted for them – even more so than their wives. And yet, these same men beat the slave girls within an inch of their lives.

12 Years a Slave benefits from compelling

performances. Chiwetel Ejiofor is breathtaking in his portrayal of Solomon/Platt. He spirals from a man of dignity to a broken shell with his mind set only on staying alive. Lupita Nyong’o’s portrayal of Patsey, the unwilling apple of her master’s eye, is astonishing. One can’t help

n Solomon Northup’s first-hand experience of slavery from a formerly free man’s point of view is thought-provoking.

but ache for her as she longs for Platt to aid her, only to learn there is no scope for heroism in his world. Michael Fassbender leaves a haunting impression as slave owner Edwin Epps. He nails the conflicts, contradictions

and evil as he transitions between rage and lust while constantly referring to his Christian principles.

Through 12 Years a Slave, audiences will see the ugliest chapter in American History plainly stated. African Americans in particular can bear witness to their ancestors being denied the most basic human rights. Even as a free man, Northup’s liberty was vulnerable simply because he was black.

At time, some will shield their eyes or turn their heads from the horror. But Northup’s first-hand experience of slavery from a formerly free man’s point of view is thought-provoking. Viewers will be forced to confront the past and pose the question: What would I have done?

Steve McQueen’s “12 Years a Slave” opens in theatres nationwide on Friday, November 1. The film is rated R with a running time of 133 minutes.

FASHION

Continued from C1

accessory.

Do whatever it takes to bring you back to when TLC rocked their hats to the back and pants down real low. In there with outerwear I love fall because I can pull

n This fall season, it’s all about having understated style. Basically, less is more.

out my fanciful coats and jackets. They at times can make or break your overall look. This season, your coat is your calling card. It has to make a statement, and it should complement both your silhouette and your personality type. So if one is more introverted but has a bottomheavy shape, go for more of the wool, swing coat or jacket. Try to stay away from the boxy style of coats that will have you confined, and contort your figure. Don’t be afraid to accentuate – even with your outerwear. Make space

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

By Melanie Adams

Lecture on mass incarceration

Author of ‘New Jim Crow’ at History Museum Nov. 1

Every time I read a new book, I get another idea for a program at the Missouri History Museum. After eight years my staff has learned to be on guard when I start a sentence with “I just read this great book.”

Sometimes this strategy works, and sometimes it doesn’t. We were successful in getting authors such as Isabel Wilkerson (The Warmth of Other Suns) and Rebecca Skloot (The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks). Not as lucky with Annette Gordon Reed (The Hemings of Monticello) or David Blackmon (Slavery by Another Name).

I am happy to add Michelle Alexander to the name of authors coming to the Missouri History Museum. On Friday, November 1 at 7 p.m. she will discuss her book, The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Obama

Published in 2010, The New Jim Crow quickly became a must-read for anyone interested in learning how the justice system continued to perpetuate the country’s history of racial and class warfare against African Americans. Starting with slavery, the book takes readers on a journey through history that illustrates the policies and practices that were put in place to control African Americans. From the Dred Scott decision to the doctrine of “separate but equal” to the war on drugs, America has continually instituted policies that protected the rights of whites at the expense of African Americans.

While there were many enlightening moments in the book, the one that stood out for me dealt with the war on drugs that started with Ronald Reagan’s campaign to “Just Say No.” Alexander provided the data that showed if Americans were serious about having a war against drugs, they would have raided fraternity houses on college campuses, not government housing in inner cities.

As a college graduate and former higher education professional, I can only say that she is onto something with that statement. Ms. Alexander reiterated that sentiment during her appearance on The Colbert Show. Host Stephen Colbert challenged her data by saying if that was the case why wasn’t The Wire set in Greenwich, Connecticut instead of Baltimore, Maryland? She responded that the truth didn’t always make good entertainment.

Because of the popularity of her book, Ms. Alexander has been in high demand with speaking engagements around the country as well as with television and radio appearances. The History Museum first contacted her two years ago to begin the process of securing a date and looking for a community partner to help support her visit. The Washington University Law School immediately responded to the call for collaboration, and we are pleased that we are able to continue our relationship with the university.

Due to the high community interest in this program, we have a few things in place to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. First, the event is free, but tickets will be required. Tickets are available on a first come/first served basis

ROBINSON

Continued from C1

after his death at age 31.

“I’m not being biased because he is a St. Louis native, but I would definitely go with Donny as my favorite between the two,” Robinson said.

“His voice as well as his concept of music in everything that I’ve heard and studied from him is mind-blowing. I definitely connect with him as a vocalist and a performer. He’s always been one to stay true to the music in his own personal format.”

In the three years that he has been a full-time performer, Robinson has relied on lessons learned by tuning into Hathaway’s music.

“His original works are amazing, but his interpretations of other songs that I’ve heard him do just bring a different light,” Robinson said. “Part of my career is a cover artist doing other people’s songs, so I kind of took his spin on it as far as utilizing your voice and putting your own feeling behind the words and behind the groove of the music and making it your own.”

Robinson was heavily influenced by both artists in his own work as a singer/ songwriter.

“Stevie’s a living legend,” Robinson said. “It’s sad that Donny Hathaway had to pass away at such an early age. To think of him still being around and having his music reach the heights of Stevie Wonder – I think it would have been great to see both of those guys going at it.”

In a weekly Soulful Sundays set at Lola, Robinson covers a host of artists, so he can’t wait to hone in on his two favorites.

n “His voice as well as his concept of music in everything that I’ve heard and studied from him is mind-blowing.”

– Will Robinson, on Donny Hathaway

out songs that weren’t really noticed or didn’t get the proper applause because they weren’t necessarily radio songs,” Robinson said.

starting at 6 p.m. on November 1. Each person can get one ticket. Once the auditorium is at capacity, we will begin filling up the overflow areas, the AT&T Multipurpose Room and the Grand Hall. Even though these are for overflow, you will still need a ticket to sit in these areas. If you cannot get to the museum, but would still like to see the lecture, we are live-streaming it – our first time in using this technology for a program. The live-stream link will be available on the main page of the Museum’s website. This is a great way for people who do not live in the immediate area to take advantage of this extraordinary program.

An Evening with Michelle Alexander Friday, November 1

6 p.m. Reception / 7 p.m. Program (limited seating - please arrive early) FREE • Lee Auditorium

Please take notice of another program of importance:

Women’s Group on Race Relations

Groping Towards Democracy Monday, November 4 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. FREE • AT&T Meeting Room

A community discussion with author and University of Missouri-St. Louis faculty member Dr. Priscilla Dowden-White on how we can work together to unite our community. Open to everyone. You are welcome to bring a bag dinner to eat during discussion.

“It’s being able to focus on two artists and pulling

“This is going to be more intimate. We always put our own spin on the songs we do, and it’s going to have a very special feeling to it. If you love

Stevie and you love Donny, you will love this show.” Stevie vs. Donny: A tribute to Stevie Wonder and Donny Hathaway will take place at 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. on Friday, November 8 at The Kranzberg Arts Center, 501 N. Grand. Tickets are available at www.ticketweb.com.

Michelle Alexander will discuss her book

The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Obama to at the Missouri History Museum 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 1.

Pastoral celebrations

The Family of

many family and friends as possible to unite with him and have a wonderful time! Information: www.st-augustine-stl.org, 314-395-1934.

~ CELEBRATIONS ~ Birthdays

Congratulations to PastorAmberCole and the Breath of Life Christian Fellowship Church Family on their 6th Anniversary. Please join her and her colaborer as they thank God for the gift of servitudes. Saturdays, November 2, 9, 16, 23, 2013 10:30 am weekly, 9930 Halls Ferry Road.

Reunions

All reunion announcements can be viewed online!

Beaumont High School class of 1969 is preparing for its 45th reunion in 2014. Contact info LaDonne Felton at beaumontclassof1969@yahoo.com for more information.

Beaumont Class of 1979 will be having a fundraising Fish Fry on Saturday, October 26, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Location: Coleman Wright CME Church, 9777 New Halls Ferry Rd., Jennings, MO 63136. For additional information, please contact Scarlett McWell at 314-458-7782 or send email to msscarletto@yahoo.com or Sandra Hooker at ayaina612@sbcglobal.net.

Beaumont High School Class of 1984 is holding meetings to plan its 30 year class reunion. For information contact Rochelle Williams 314 6808404 or leave a message in the

class email at beaumont_1984@yahoo.com.

St. Louis Gospel Choral Union, Inc. celebrates its 80th Local Convention Musical and Consecration Services on Fri., Oct. 25 and Sun., Oct. 27, 7 p.m. and 4 p.m. (respectively) at West Side Baptist Church, 4675 Page Blvd., 63113. For more information, call 314535-9002, ext. 203.

Soldan Class of 1974 reunion kickoff, Sunday, Nov. 10, 2013 from 4-6 pm at St. Louis Enterprise Center, 6439 Plymouth Ave., St. Louis, MO 63133.

Shirley Johnson will celebrate her 59th birthday on October 28. She is a proud wife, married for 38 years and the proud parent of one daughter, three sons, 10 grandchildren and four greatgrandchildren.

Happy 50th birthday to Lucille Davis on October 28. God bless you on your big day! From your husband, daughters and entire family

Nicholas Nash (16) — October 25

Vanikab Lovett — October 25

Earl F. Kelly Sr. (60) — October 29

Earl F. Kelly Jr. (26) — October 28, 2013

Jeffrey Hill Jr. (16) — October 30

Charlie Simpson — October 30

Courtney Carter— October 31

Soldan Homecoming is Saturday October 26, 2013 at 1 p.m.Come out and support the football tigers to a win as they play Sumner.

SumnerClass Of 1974 is sponsoring a Happy Hour on Oct. 25, 2013, 5-7 p.m.at Club DeJa Vu II Café, 2805 Halls Ferry Road St. Louis, MO 63136. Raffle tickets are for sale and purchase for a drawing that day. If you would like to sell or purchase tickets please contact Brenday Conway at 314-503-6945.

SumnerClass of 1979 is looking for classmates to partici-

pate in activities leading up to its 35th Class Reunion, June 20-22, 2014 in Lake of the Ozarks, MO.Please forward contact information to sumner1979@ymail.com or call Sara at 314-482-1558.Various activities are planned and we want as many classmates as possible to participate.

U-City High School Class of 1984 will host a Happy Hour Fundraiser & Raffle on Friday, Nov. 1 from 7-11pm at Level 2 located at 7555 Olive Blvd. The cover is $5. The event is leading up to the 30-year Class Reunion.

OF CHARGE

Do you have a celebration you’re proud of? If so we would like to share your good news with our readers. Whether it’s a birth, graduation, wedding, engagement announcement, anniversary, retirement or birthday, send your photos and a brief announcement (50 words or less) to us and we may include it in our paper and website – AT NO COST – as space is available Photos will not be returned. Send your announcements to: kdaniel@stlamerican. com or mail to: St. Louis American Celebrations c/o Kate Daniel 4242 Lindell Ave St. Louis, MO 63108

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

James and Betty Boykin celebrated 50 years of marriage on October 19, 2013 at the North County Recreation Center with 100 of their closest family and friends. This black and gold themed lavish event was hosted by the couples’three daughters: Deena, Sabrina and Katina.

Golden anniversary

Black clergy push ‘Obamacare’ enrollment

By Hazel Trice Edney

Of TriceEdneyWire.com

A team of African-American preachers has sent a letter to President Barack Obama affirming their “commitment to the Affordable Care Act” even as the president has ordered the website overhauled.

“We believe that access to quality health care is a fundamental civil and human right in America. Historically, over seven million African Americans have been uninsured and denied access to care with devastating consequences. The Affordable Care Act provides AfricanAmericans, along with Americans of all nationalities, access to desperately needed quality health care,” states the letter, signed by 14 black preachers, all of whom lead major clerical or civic organizations.

“We affirm our support for the Affordable Care Act. We understand that over time aspects of the Act will be revised as government learns more and to-be-expected administrative glitches will be appropriately addressed but it is essential that we work aggressively with what we have right now. We cannot afford to put this off any longer. Any further delay will have catastrophic effects on the nation’s uninsured.”

The 14 names on the letter are the Rev. Dr. Otis Moss Jr. chair, Faith Partnerships; Inc.; the Rev. Dr. Barbara Williams-Skinner, co-chair, National African American Clergy Network, who is heading the effort; the Reverend Dr. T. DeWitt Smith, Jr., co-chair, National African American Clergy Network; the Rev. Dr. Carroll A. Baltimore, president, Progressive National Baptist Convention, Inc.; Bishop George E. Battle, Jr., senior bishop, African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church; Bishop Charles Edward Blake, Sr., presiding Bishop and Chief Apostle, Church of God In Christ, Inc.; Bishop John R. Bryant, senior bishop,

The Rev. Dr. Barbara WilliamsSkinner, co-chair, National African American Clergy Network, is heading the effort of black clergy to support President Barack Obama as implementation of the Affordable Care Act goes into effect and to push for enrollment in health insurance.

African Methodist Episcopal Church; the Rev. Dr. Ambassador Suzan Johnson Cook, founding president, Women In Ministry International; Bishop Paul A. G. Stewart, Sr., acting senior bishop, Christian Methodist Episcopal Church; Bishop Paul S. Morton, international presiding bishop, Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International; the Rev. Dr. Julius R. Scruggs, president, National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc.; the Rev. Al Sharpton, president, National Action Network; the Rev. Dr. Stephen Thurston, president, National Baptist Convention of America, Inc., the Rev. Dr. C. T. Vivian, president, Southern Christian Leadership Conference.

The letter was released only hours after President Obama held a Rose Garden press conference deploring the embarrassing glitches that have slowed enrollment on the website, HealthCare. gov, while praising the benefits of the new plans for those who have successfully enrolled.

“The problem has been that the website that’s supposed to make it easy to apply for and purchase the insurance is not working the way it should for everybody. And there’s no sugarcoating it,” Obama said. “The website has been too slow, people have been getting stuck during the application process. And I think it’s fair to say that nobody is more frustrated by that than I am – precisely because the product is good.”

For anyone experiencing problems or needing answers to questions, he announced the toll free number, 1-800318-2596 for help. The president has also embraced the Republican-invented nickname for the Affordable Care Act. In a video, distributed by mass e-mail, he has appealed for people to “Join Team Obamacare.”

Meanwhile, amidst escalated criticism of the plan – mainly by Republicans – the pastors and their associates bolstered their support.

“We, leaders of predominantly AfricanAmerican denominations and other faith leaders, who lead millions of AfricanAmerican people of faith, believe that our devotion to God requires us to be actively involved in promoting the well being of all people,” states the letter.

The letter lists their specific commitments, including to “facilitate the critical enrollment numbers necessary to ensure the success of the Affordable Care Act” and to “seek other opportunities to work towards improving the health status of our constituencies.”

They also appealed for other pastors to sign onto the letter and the commitment.

We all know the story of the Prodigal Son, how he asked for his inheritance, traveled to a far country and squandered his substance. He lived a life with no rules. Then his money ran out and he had to take a job feeding swine. When he came to himself, he decided to go home. After going home and apologizing to his father, his father threw a party to celebrate. There’s another family member we need to look at, the older brother. In a family with two children, imagine the sibling rivalry. One a goody-two-shoes and the other just the opposite. One doing everything to please and the other rebellious in all things. One a hard worker and the other watching TV and playing video games. One always trying to out-do the other. They never showed affection for each other because they were not friends, just brothers. When was the last time you said “I love you” to your sister or brother? When was the last time you spent quality time with a family member? When was the last time you forgave your sibling for some childhood prank? When was your last call?

When was the last time you said “I love you” to your sister or brother?

When the father saw the attitude of the older son, he tried to convince him to come in the house and join the celebration but he would not. The older son’s complaint was that the younger brother left home, spent all his money and now that he’s back, he gets the best meat for a party and the good clothes reserved for our guests. Of course, the father is happy, it’s his baby boy. The older son was resentful. He stayed at home, worked hard, he followed all the rules and he wasn’t a problem to anyone. He was a good son but he never got a party for his friends. The father’s response was, while you were here with me, all that I had was yours. Your brother was lost but now he’s found. He was dead but now he’s alive. Don’t be like the older brother. We can possess all the blessings of the Father and it’s freely given to each of us. Don’t get upset when he shares his grace, mercy, love and forgiveness with others. Pray for restoration and rejoice when others rejoice, cry when your brother cries.

The American is accepting Inspirational Messages from the community. Send your column (no more than 400 words) as a Word document and pasted text to cking@stlamerican.com and attach a photo of yourself as a jpeg ile. Please be patient; we will run columns in the order received.

Marla P. Goodwin

Celebrity Swagger Snap of the Week

Halloweenin’ with the best of them. I thought I was going to be typing “Halloween Gone Wild” in that heading after what I assumed would be an epic weekend, so pardon my lack of cuteness. Boy was I wrong. I know that as you are reading this you have a bottle of Febreeze on hand to “touch up” portions of your naughty suit, but can you take a moment to raise your hand to co-sign that this past weekend was one of the most underwhelming I’ve seen in all of my years? Now I’m almost certain that tonight (Halloween) will make up for it, but I was still disappointed in the city for giving me less than a handful of parties that were noteworthy – when I’m used to having to whittle things down to make room. I might as well get on with it, so here we go…As usual, the 13 Black Katz gave me life as I kicked off my Saturday night with them at The Ritz Carlton! And I had as much fun charging people up about their costumes as I did with the whole party. Look, it’s okay to say “girl, I don’t know what this is supposed to be besides sexy…and I wanted to get one more wear out of this synthetic hair unit.” You don’t have to play me with a “Guess…I’m the rhinestone feather fairy in a ‘Girl 6’ wig.” Girl stop. I did catch a few costumes that I recognized from the jump – like the Sumner High offensive lineman from the class of 1967. It takes a special kind of confidence to strut your seasoned stuff in those fitted football uniform pants. I let it slide because –as per usual I had a blast with the Black Katz Halloween Bash.

Parr-taying! After the Katz I made my way over to Majic 100.3 FM’s Arika Parr’s costume party at Lola Saturday night. I’m telling you that I haven’t seen people having such a genuine good time in a while – maybe those bottomless cups had a hand in it. Whatever the case may be, I left there thinking “these people came to party!” They were getting it in with karaoke in the front, and tearing the club up in the back. And because it was all in good fun – I will leave my opinions of the folks and their performances completely out of it especially “Nasty Girl”. Okay, back to the good news. You could tell Arika was having as much fun as anybody in the mix. If you didn’t recognize her beneath her sickening Egyptian queen ensemble, you would have thought she was just a regular reveler. Now that’s my kind of party! I ran in to all types of folks up in there too – Atia Thurman, Nikole Shurn Perkins were just a couple of the movers and shakers I hadn’t seen in a minute who partied alongside plenty of the Majic personalities. I mean, if I were to give a theme song to that party it would be “Off The Wall” because the folks left their nine to five on the shelf and just enjoyed themselves – do you hear me!?!

Eye Candy unwrapped. On Friday I scooted over to Soho to see what MPAC and the crew were serving up with their Halloween party edition. I was anticipating saying something disgraceful about it being more tricks than treats in the building, but aside from the cleavage and cat suits it was mostly cute and classy. I think the weather had plenty to do with it. Whatever the case, I had a good little time kicking it with Mo Spoon and his gang as I started my Halloween weekend.

Happy b-day to ya Jessie Taylor! It wouldn’t have set right with my soul if I had missed my boy Jessie’s all-star comedy birthday bash at the Ambassador Sunday night – so that’s how I capped my weekend off. After attending, I know three things for sure. First, Jessie is heelarious (yes, I said heelarious). The second thing I know is that Kenny Howell is going to tell the same jokes until he goes to heaven. And finally – regardless of how ridiculous it may be, I know for a fact that comedians think that saying the filthiest thing that they can possibly think of is funny just because they have to say it out loud in front of a crowd. I mean, they don’t try to be clever or spin the slightest sip of wit into it. They’ve just decided if they can gross you out enough, your gag will magically transform into a cackle. And while I’m too traumatized to remember his name, that brother on stage with the Maxi Priest braids owes me $10. Because after hearing part of his reemblactment of acts reserved for the bedroom, I couldn’t even stomach the thought of finishing my buffalo wings. I had a blast until I lost my appetite though.

A round of applause for Poetic Justice. After promising myself that I would more times than I care to say, I made my way to Corey Black’s Poetic Justice event Sunday night at The Blank Space. It was really cute and intimate as the folks got up and did whatever they felt like doing – from songs to poetry, to gospel quartet interpretations of Fantasia. And it gave me the feeling of a urbanized episode of “Cheers” as folks came in and knew everybody – from Corey on the mic, to Black Spade on the tables, Tree by the door and everyone in between.

Lucky Seven for Got Lyrics. Since I’m already talking about poetry, I might as well hip y’all to the Got Lyrics 7 year anniversary going down next Thursday (Nov. 7) at the InSpot (its seventh location). It’s supposed to be going all the way down next week with host and founder Mocha Latte as she features Robia aka IGGNYHTE in the spotlight. I wish the doors opened at seven so I could start and end with the number, but they don’t. You can show up early and wait outside if you want to though – but if you want to go straight to the party, the doors don’t open until 8 p.m.

Mo Spoon was back at it for the Halloween edition of the Eye Candy Party with his lovely models all dolled up in the most devilish of costumes Friday night @ Soho

Nikki,Birthday Girl Tameka and Chaunita play dress up for their Halloween-birthday party at the Coliseum Saturday night

Arika Parr and Kory Johnson paid tribute to Egyptian royalty @ her Costumes and Cocktails Party Saturday night @ Lola

Ivette and Henry couldn’t help but be in the

Kayla, Jami and Devin made the dead presidents costume look awful good @ MPAC’s Eye Candy Halloween Friday night @ Soho

Kato and the Green Hornet had more swag than usual @ The 13 Black Katz Halloween party Saturday night @ The Ritz Carlton

The Coliseum Bartenders were serving up ghoulish drinks all Saturday night

Best Friends Brian and Redd came out to experience the Beautiful nightmare that went down Saturday night @ Soho

Corey Black, Coultrain and Black Spade were most graceful as they came together to present Poetic Justice Sunday night @ The Blank Space

Ashley and Jennifer enjoying the scene at Soho for the Halloween edition of MPAC’s Eye Candy party

They’ve been on comedy stages around the world –including Def Comedy Jam and Comic View – and Sunday urban comedy stars Marcus Combs and Kenny Howell joined STL’s own Jessie Taylor at The Ambassador for his All-Star Birthday Comedy Bash.

Photos by Lawrence Bryant