September 5th, 2019 Edition

Coming to grips with gun violence

mothers

‘Whatever the movement is going to be, I’m going to be part of it’

By Rebecca Rivas

Of The St. Louis American

Going to the football jamboree at Soldan High School on Friday, August 23 was a “reward” for eight-year-old Jurnee Thompson’s good behavior during her first two weeks at school.

“I got not one call from the school and not one bad report,” said Rasheed Thompson, Jurnee’s father. “I asked my baby twice if she wanted to leave. She said, ‘Yea.’ She hugged me. She kissed me and told me, ‘Bye,’ not knowing that would be the last time I would

n “When a grown person or teenager murders your eightyear-old child and you don’t come forward, it’s heartbreaking.” – Rasheed Thompson

see my baby.” Jurnee was shot and killed by a stray bullet while leaving the football game that

night. Thompson spoke at the candlelight vigil held for his daughter at her school Herzog Elementary on Wednesday, August 28. It was also a vigil for the 20 children killed by gun violence in St. Louis in 2019. The event was organized by radio stations 95.5 The Lou and Radio One Hot 104.1 and community organization Better Family Life Inc.

Jurnee’s killer remains at large, and CrimeStoppers is offering $25,000 rewards until September 10 for supplying information about her case and those of three other

‘It’s the safety we are creating’

By Rebecca Rivas Of The

Flynn Park Elementary School in University City has been on a journey these past three years, said Principal Nicalee Wilson. And it’s one that’s best illustrated through a story.

“I think of a student we received as a kindergartener, who had screaming tantrums all the time,” Wilson said. The student would tell her teachers that she couldn’t read because she wasn’t a reader. By second grade, she was using the calming area in the classroom, along with the calming practices she learned. And she experienced growth as a reader. Now the student

By Treasurer Tishaura O. Jones

For The St. Louis American

Recently, Bill McClellan penned a column about me titled “The Shadow Mayor of St. Louis strikes again.” The longtime PostDispatch columnist was referring to an op-ed I wrote here in The St. Louis American last week. I want to thank McClellan for the new title of “Shadow Mayor”; it brought some levity and laughter to the weekend. He was right: what I proposed would not completely “eradicate violence in the city, but at least they were ideas, programs, something more concrete than rewards and balloon releases.” And, although readers of his column also enjoy his humor, I want to be clear: violence is a serious problem and calls for comprehensive, transformative, evidencebased solutions.

Leaders like Comptroller Darlene Green, Circuit Attorney Kimberly Gardner, Superintendent Kelvin Adams, and Rev. Starsky Wilson should also be credited with helpful ideas to protect our children all published in The American But we must not look only to elected leaders and individuals for answers to end violence. Community groups like the Organization of Black Struggle (“OBS”), the Coalition Against Police Crimes and Repression (“CAPCR”), and the Close the Workhouse Campaign (led by Action St. Louis, ArchCity Defenders and The Bail Project) have spent years researching evidence-based methods for reducing crime in other cities. Crime in the city has been a problem for

Steve Roberts has announced, Megan Green is considering options, in

By

Michelle Sherod – longtime staffer for former U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill – is entering the race for the open seat to represent Missouri’s 5th Senate District, where state Senator Jamilah Nasheed (D-St. Louis) is term-limited. She has the strong endorsement of Nasheed, who speaks as if the

See FLYNN PARK, A7

Chris King Of The St. Louis American

St. Louis American

Photo by Rebecca Rivas

Keale Siebert, third grade teacher, reads to her class at Flynn Park Elementary.

St. Louis Treasurer Tishaura O. Jones

Rasheed Thompson, the father of 8-year old Jurnee Thompson, was comforted by a circle of

during a vigil for murdered children in St. Louis at Herzog Elementary School on Wednesday, August 28. Jurnee was killed by a stray bullet on August 23.

Photo by Wiley Price

Michelle Sherod

William Miller

Malik Yoba announces his attraction to transwomen, his children had no clue

Malik Yoba used his Instagram account to let the world know that he is attracted to transwomen. He made the admission in the caption of a video he posted of Maurice “Reese” Willoughby, a 20-yearold Philadelphia man being bullied on camera for dating a transgender woman, Willoughby reportedly died of a drug overdose after his girlfriend left him shortly after the incident.

After saying she has his support, the mother of Yoba’s two children voiced her frustration that the “New York Undercover” and “Empire” actor did not discuss his relationship with their kids.

“I expressed that 2 months ago to you when I became aware of your current trans relationship,” the woman, whose IG handle is Terryoneandonly, continued in her comment.

“Why did you NOT have a conversation with our children and wait till last night to text our 1st born with this info. Yet you were preparing your Public months ago on IG! Our children support you and keep so much a secret of what really goes down with our family dynamic. I asked to meet you over a month ago and you have yet to make time. So here I am !!

“This video is another heartbreaking example of the homophobia, transphobia hatred and hypocrisy WE as black folks, BLACK MEN in particular have to NAME, FACE and CALL OUT and do the work to heal!!!” Yoba writes.”I love ALL women AND count MYSELF among those that find themselves trans attracted and I too have felt the self-imposed shame that comes with that truth but it’s time to speak up. It is NOT about GENITALIA OR SEX but about attraction to the soul and humanity of an individual.”

If you know better, then do better! Family is first over ALL.”

Rick Ross reveals drugs were at the root of his health crises

In his new book, “Hurricanes: My Life Is a Movie,” rapper Rick Ross admits that his seizures were caused by drug abuse. “It was the codeine,” Ross told People Magazine in an interview to promote the book. “That mixed with the things I was drinking, the other

drugs I was doing, and on top of not resting.

[I don’t think] one particular thing would have killed me. But everything combined?” Ross also admitted his extended hospital stay inspired him to write his book.

Kevin Hart undergoes surgery after crash, expected to make full recovery

Comedian/actor Kevin Hart underwent surgery for “major back injuries” suffered during a terrifying car crash that took place over the weekend. He was a passenger in his car when the driver, friend Jared Black, lost control and veered off the road in the hills above Malibu early Sunday morning.

Leland “Pookey” Wigington, the president of Hart’s production company, told NBC News on Tuesday that Hart “is doing fine after back surgery” and “is expected to have a full recovery very soon.” Black was behind the wheel of Hart’s beloved vintage Plymouth Barracuda when it crashed about 10 feet off Mulholland Highway and into a ditch. TMZ obtained wreckage photos that showed the roof completely crushed by impact and the car destroyed. Black was found pinned in the driver’s seat under the roof. A

female passenger, identified as Black’s fiancée

Rebecca Broxterman, was also pinned.

Black was airlifted to UCLA Medical Center and his condition is unknown. Broxterman was unharmed. Hart left the scene after being picked up by his security, a witness told TMZ, and was taken to his nearby home. He was later treated for his injuries at a local hospital. Hart bought himself the Barracuda in July as a 40th birthday present.

R. Kelly reportedly moved out of solitary confinement

Earlier this month, embattled R&B singer R. Kelly’s lawyer claimed the singer was not doing well in solitary confinement while awaiting trial for multiple charges of sexual abuse against minors.

This week, R. Kelly’s legal team filed a motion to have him moved to general population. According to Variety.com, the motion has been granted.

Kelly was reportedly moved to general population on Tuesday with special precautions taken to ensure his safety.

Along with being allowed 10 non-attorney visits instead of just one, R. Kelly may now also have recreation time with the other prisoners.

R. Kelly is being held without bond and facing 18 counts of sexual misconduct.

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

Rick Ross

Malik Yoba

Jesuits seek descendants of slaves who helped establish SLU

Slavery, History, Memory and Reconciliation Project has no plan for reparations

By Clara Germani For The St. Louis American

The flowing script of an 1847 Jesuit missionary ledger page shows a matter-of-fact accounting of four payments, totaling $300, that one Matilda – a 34-year-old “colored servant” – made to buy her freedom from her Jesuit owners. The heading notes that she should pay directly to St. Xavier Catholic Church in St. Louis. Between those prosaic ledger lines are stories: the individual drama of the struggles and triumphs of Matilda – Matilda Tyler, to those (like her seven children) who knew and loved her – and the larger story of a system of human bondage so entrenched in the American economy that even a religious institution took part in it. The ledger page is just one of thousands of legal and financial documents –as well as personal diaries and letters – unearthed in a massive sleuthing project by Saint Louis University and the Jesuits of the USA Central and Southern Province. The two institutions established the Slavery, History, Memory and Reconciliation Project – staffed by researchers and translators – in 2016 to own up to slaveholding as an “undeniable” part of their history. The project is piecing together the long-obscured history of six enslaved men and women and their children, brought from Maryland to St.

Louis in 1823 by Jesuits. The forced labor of the enslaved –as cooks, laundresses, and farm laborers – enabled the priests and brothers to take on the operation of what is now Saint Louis University.

It is a monumental search, explains Jonathan Smith, director of the project and vice president for diversity and community engagement at Saint Louis University, because “there’s not a box marked ‘slavery’” in the archives. But rather, evidence of slavery permeates everything that was done in that era.

One short passage of a detailed diary of a young Belgian Jesuit, Felix Ferre, who was one of those who brought Matilda Tyler’s parents to St. Louis, unwittingly documents the powerful discontent of the enslaved and the Jesuits’ blindness to their plight.

“Ferre said, ‘It must be a means for their salvation to be able to live and work’ for the Jesuit mission. But then he said in the very next sentence, ‘Though we tried to convince [the enslaved] of their happiness, it was difficult if not to say impossible to do so,’” said Kelly Schmidt, the project research coordinator.

“And he went on to describe attempts to beat the enslaved despite the Jesuit rules against that ... and how the [enslaved] women on the farm would intervene to project their husbands.”

The project’s two-year status report last April explained

that the aim of the research effort is to uncover the truth in the rich but tragic stories of the enslaved and honor their memories. But ultimately, the goal is reconciliation by seeking “new ways to be in a relationship with African Americans, to work together to address the social injustices in our communities rooted in slavery.”

That reconciliation means tracing the whole story of the enslaved right down to their descendants today. So now, the project is searching for descendants – a number that, after nearly 200 years, could be a group of thousands who might have such surnames as Brown, Chambers, Ford, Franklin, Tyler, and Wilson. The number of descendants and names could be exponentially larger, too, because the project estimates that the St. Louis Jesuits owned, rented or borrowed close to 200 people

in the 40 years before the Civil War.

“A real important edge of this project is for descendants,” says Smith. “It helps fill in those gaps that all [African Americans] have [in] this inclination of wanting to know who my people are.”

Smith notes a barrier most African Americans meet in genealogical research. The 1870 U.S. Census, the first to note the black population, is considered a genealogical wall before which slavery and Jim Crow laws erased the potential for paper trails used in genealogical research. Black Americans, excluded from mainstream institutional recognition, often were not registered at birth, death and marriage or for the draft or voter rolls.

While African Americans searching backward in time for family ancestral lines today meet the end of a family paper

trail at that 1870 Census, the project has large amounts of pre-1870 documentation of individuals it is seeking to link forward in time to hurdle that barrier.

The project’s historic tracery even recently led researchers to an abandoned house in North St. Louis once owned by a descendant – a tantalizing discovery they hope will lead to contact with a living descendant.

The project, citing privacy, will not identify exactly who the search has led them to – but the first contact with descendants of those held in slavery in St. Louis was initiated recently when letters were sent to them.

And, project researchers hope that, as word of their search spreads, more descendants will be in contact through the project email address: SHMR@Jeusits.org

The path to reconciliation sought by the project,= is part of a larger national reparations and reconciliation movement. Reparations moves by federal legislators have become a part of the presidential debates; and individual institutions grappling with slaveholding pasts have initiated reconciliation projects that include everything from community conversations to name changes on buildings and streets. Students at Georgetown University voted in April to increase their tuition to create an education and health fund to benefit the 4,000 known living descendants of 272 enslaved people sold by Jesuits to finance the university. SLU and the regional Jesuits have not outlined what reconciliation might entail, said Smith. “We’re doing our best not to anticipate so as not to shape what the response is to the long history of slavery,” Smith said. “Our best place is to anticipate less and listen more. Our communities will let us know what things we should consider, what courses we should pursue.”

Above - St. Francis Xavier Church after it was torn down, with an inscription showing where the “negro chapel” was located.

Left - Peter Queen (Hawkins), enslaved by Jesuits in St. Louis, as an old man

Editorial /CommEntary

The police killing of Terry Tillman and the prisoners’ dilemma

If we feel trapped in an endless cycle of police killing civilians under often complex circumstances with many people disbelieving the inevitable police assertion that the shooting was justified, we should. In fact, we are all trapped in a version of the prisoners’ dilemma. We are all, in a way, prisoners of this dilemma.

The prisoners’ dilemma is a model from game theory where the best outcome for two individuals is to cooperate with each other without knowing whether the other person will cooperate. But they both have to blindly trust that the other also will trust and cooperate –while knowing that there is a guaranteed, though lesser, reward if they don’t cooperate but rather turn against the other person.

Consider St. Louis County Police Sgt. Benjamin Granda’s comments to media about a much better possible outcome from the police interaction with Terry J. Tillman, 23, on Saturday, August 31 that would leave Tillman dead and the community protesting another police killing of another young black man. The police interaction reportedly began when a police officer approached Tillman, who was visibly carrying a firearm, to tell him no guns were allowed in the St. Louis Galleria, where Tillman was shopping.

“I wish that they would have explained the policy again to him and that he would have parted ways and then come back to have completed his shopping on a different date or time when he was not armed,” Granda told media. “But unfortunately that is not what happened.” What happened instead was that Tillman fled and, after a pursuit, police shot and killed him – claiming (inevitably) that Tillman aimed to fire at them first, which would justify the fatal shooting if true.

Granda imagined the scenario from the prisoners’ dilemma where both potential adversaries cooperate with the other, blindly trusting cooperation from the other, and both escape. In Granda’s non-fatal scenario, Tillman stops to listen to the officer, who simply explains the mall policy and then lets Tillman leave the Galleria. In this scenario, Tillman trusts that the officer won’t harass him but will simply explain the policy he is violating and let him leave. The officer, presented with no evidence that Tillman was breaking any law other than the mall policy about firearms, would trust that Tillman was breaking no other law or presenting any danger and let him leave the mall without further investigation or harassment.

So why did Tillman turn against the police officer and flee, rather than trust and cooperate?

One of Tillman’s sisters, Racheal Jones, was asked this question during a vigil on Sunday. “You want to know why he ran?” Jones responded. “Ask all of these young black men.”

Young black men in St. Louis learn the hard way that, when a police officer approaches you, he is not likely to simply explain the policy he thinks you are violating and let you leave without further harassment. For example, though the police do not need to know your identity to inform you that the mall does not permit firearms, any young black man in St. Louis stopped by a police officer assumes that, at the very least, he will be directed to provide

identification. And, if Ferguson taught us nothing else, it taught us that there are nearly as many outstanding arrest warrants as people in this region.

So, if Tillman had trusted the police officer to perform this one simple task, as Granda envisioned, but the police officer had gone further than explaining the mall policy and asked for identification and checked police databases, in fact he would have found an arrest warrant for Tillman. The police officer did not know this, but Tillman knew it. Also, the police officer did not know that Tillman had a felony on his record and so was committing a Class D felony by carrying the firearm he brought to the mall. Expecting the police officer would do more than explain a mall policy and politely ask Tillman to leave without asking for identification, Tillman decided he would try to outrun prison. That decision – and a police officer’s subsequent decision to shoot him – cost him his life.

We will never know the disposition of the case for which Tillman was wanted when he was killed. But one can question the wisdom of a convicted felon committing a new felony and risking a return to prison by carrying a firearm. However, in an unsafe city like St. Louis, many people, not only young black men, feel more protected when they carry firearms. The law that makes it a Class D felony for a felon to possess a firearm presents yet another dilemma for a young man like Tillman: obey the law and leave yourself unprotected, or arm yourself and risk returning to prison every time you see a police officer. It’s a law that seems almost designed to turn prison into a revolving door.

If it’s fair to ask why Tillman ran – because he did not trust the police – it’s just as fair to ask why the police officer pursued him. By leaving the mall, Tillman had stopped violating the mall policy which reportedly was the police officer’s only concern in stopping Tillman. One might argue that the officer’s job had been made even easier by Tillman, who stopped breaking the mall policy before it was even explained to him.

Granda was asked this question – why did the cop pursue him? – at a press conference on Tuesday. “It’s 2019,” Granda said. “Any reasonable person that sees an extended magazine protruding from someone, especially in a law enforcement capacity, has an obligation to contact that individual and investigate. I will give you a couple days to turn on your evening news, look nationally, and see if we have any mass shootings.”

By this reasoning, even Granda admits his fantasy of mutual cooperation between the young man black man and the police officer was only a fantasy. Though firearms are generally legal in Missouri except where posted, the officer was going to do more than explain the mall policy to the young man with the firearm. He was going to “investigate.” Tillman knew that, as any young black man in St. Louis knows it. He has learned that to cooperate with a police officer while blindly accepting cooperation in return is not a rational strategy. Of course, neither is fleeing an armed agent of the law, knowing that he will pursue you and quite possibly kill you. That’s why it’s called a dilemma – and why we are all imprisoned in it.

Michael Brown, Steve Stenger and the future of St. Louis

By Rasheen Aldridge

For The St. Louis American

Our region recently recognized the 5th year anniversary of Michael Brown’s killing and the subsequent turmoil that placed the St. Louis region at the epicenter of chaos and disorder. The sad event of a young African-American male dying at the hands of an under-trained police officer exposed the underbelly of much deeper problems: systemic racism, parasitic governments, corrupt political systems that feed off the poor and a region clearly divided by the haves and have not’s. At the same time, our region was introduced to the new St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger. Stenger opposed diversity programs, was a brazen and accomplished liar, and was genuinely unconcerned about the affairs of Ferguson. His relationship with then-St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Bob McCulloch was akin to Batman and Robin as they took on the African-American community, with Stenger assuming the role of Robin. Stenger made very cosmetic accommodations to appease a few black ministers and politicians, but in reality was at constant war with established St. Louis County African-American leadership. As the region’s leader, Stenger showed no interest in stepping up and leading. If something did not offer political advantage or his personal enrichment, then it didn’t exist and therefore didn’t matter. However, he found no shortage of connected minions to carry out his evil plots, and for that we all suffered. So on the five-year anniversary of Michael

By Lynn Beckwith For The St. Louis American

For the past 12 years, it has been my honor to serve on the St. Louis County Library District Board of Trustees with pride and diligence. I have witnessed the library grow to become the busiest public library in Missouri and be recognized locally and nationally for its innovative programming and leadership. I have observed record-breaking circulation, impactful programs like summer reading club, author events, Hip Hop Architecture Camp and Career Online High School, as well as vital partnerships with community organizations such as the St. Louis Area Diaper Bank and Operation Food Search.

These resources serve all areas of the county and are a lifeline for those who face structural disenfranchisement. I have applauded library administration for their efforts to meet people where they are –whether it’s through bookmobile service or the Wi-Fi hotspot lending program. I have experienced the excitement of patrons attending events with worldclass authors and have cut ribbons for 18 new or renovated state-of-the-art library buildings. I am always amazed at the level of excitement when our patrons return to their branch and their library people.

the region and being excellent stewards of tax dollars. This included the decision to purchase land in Frontenac for the world-class History Genealogy Library and Administrative Library Building.

The library will be open to the public and will house a collection of more than 100,000 print and electronic resources, as well as expert library staff ready to assist family historians. Unique collections – including the St. Louis Genealogical Collection, the National Genealogical Society Book Loan Collection, the Julius K. Hunter and Friends African American Research Collection and the Jewish Genealogical Society of St. Louis Collection –will now be easily accessible to the public. The administration wing of the building will serve as the heart and soul of all library functions, including our virtual library telecenter, bookmobiles, youth and adult programming, book selection and information technology.

I serve on many boards, live in a diverse community and interact with people of all cultures throughout this region. I have been an educator in the St. Louis region for my entire adult life. The locations of our 20 library branches are intentional and open to all; these libraries are anchors for the communities they serve. I understand that we are better when we work together to serve the entire community.

I am dismayed at the recent criticism directed toward the St. Louis County Library Board of Trustees. We have led during this truly transformational time in St. Louis and have approached our roles with a focus on improving

Letters to the editor

Vicious fight to shield corrupt system

The case of Lamar Johnson should be of interest to everyone concerned about the future of American democracy. Johnson’s 1994 murder conviction was secured via malfeasance by police and prosecutors acting in concert. Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner (D) is trying to right the errant conviction via her newly formed Conviction Integrity Unit. However, Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt (R) is doing his best to thwart Gardner’s efforts. Circuit Judge Elizabeth Hogan is hindering Gardner’s efforts via her support of Schmitt. Meanwhile, Johnson remains in prison.

Brown’s falling victim to a police officer’s bullet, it almost seems preordained that Stenger would be sentenced to four years in prison. He succeeded at greed and shunned the opportunity to help pull our collective communities together. Yet his partners still stand and seem to continue his mission of selling out our region by selling our airport.

Most of Stenger’s corporate, political and other co-conspirators who empowered him have yet to answer for their roles. The political operatives who eagerly fed at the public trough have yet to be called to task. The politicians and ministers who didn’t stand for the people they represent must also make amends.

The same is true of the media that chose to accept and promote Stenger’s lies about Charlie Dooley and did his bidding for years, as well as St. Louis’ corporate community and the region’s Democratic machine. The full tragedy here was not only Stenger’s behavior but his overt embrace by St. Louis media, corporate St. Louis and the Democratic Party – not to mention Better Together. Unfortunately, little has changed in five years. Our region is long suffering, and there are few indicators that we have learned any lessons. In order to be better, we must take a long look at ourselves. To be relevant, our region had better start looking in the mirror.

Rasheen Aldridge was elected in 2016 as the youngest African-American Democratic committeeman in St. Louis history from the 5th Ward and currently is Democratic nominee for the 78 District state representative seat in the Nov 5 election.

Democracy is a desirable form of government, but fragile. Its foundation is dependent on the integrity of its politicians, police and prosecutors. It’s the threelegged stool concept: when one leg is defective, the stool gets out of balance, loses its integrity. Thus, integrity is the base element of the democratic foundation.

As a base element, integrity does not develop at the top of the democratic structure, then trickle-down to its lower parts. It’s developed at the base of the structure and becomes inherent to the structure only when those having integrity rise to leadership positions. So, the Conviction Integrity Unit and Kim Gardner are existential threats to corrupt government. Handing Lamar Johnson his freedom is acknowledgement of that corrupt system.

So, be assured, the politicians/police/prosecutors who have cultivated the system that sent Johnson to the pen will fight viciously to shield the corrupt system that maintains them.

Michael K. Broughton Green Park

If Rex really wants to help

If billionaire Rex Sinquefield really wants to make a difference in bettering our city he can. What he could do is to persuade our governor and rural legislators with the threat of funding their opponents if they continue to resist letting our

This building is not a “warehouse” or a “Walmart,” as some in Frontenac have described it. This is a library filled with library employees doing the important work of the library district. They will be conducting the exact same activities that have taken place for over 60 years just three quarters of a mile away, at the current headquarters location in Ladue. The St. Louis County Library Board of Trustees are invested in safeguarding these assets. Libraries are the fabric of our communities, as are the employees who make our library system great. These thoughtful and dedicated individuals serve the whole region – in all its 485 square miles. All of us treasure the diversity in our region. We are united in making our library system excellent not just today, but for the future, and not just in a few corners of the county. An excellent library system, accessible to all, is simply what St. Louis County expects. Lynn Beckwith Jr., Ed.D., is president of the St. Louis County Library Board of Trustees.

city establish common sense gun laws to combat the horrific gun violence. With our lax gun laws the city law enforcement has their hands tied behind their backs.

James Sahaida St. Louis

Balance between access and protection

Charlene Crowell’s recent column (“Consumer Financial Protection Bureau should go back to protecting consumers’ finances”) suggests that the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)’s small-dollar lending rule was designed to protect consumers. In reality, had it been allowed to go into effect on August 19, the rule stood to leave millions of Americans without access to a valuable source of credit.

According to the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve, nearly half of Americans could not cover an unexpected expense costing $400. Small-dollar loans are often the least expensive option

for these situations, particularly compared to overdraft or bounced check fees, unregulated offshore internet loans and penalties for late bill payments.

Yet as written, the CFPB’s rule would have forced more than 80 percent of storefront small-dollar lenders out of business, leaving many Americans with no choice but to seek out dangerous or more expensive alternatives. Throughout the rulemaking process, more than one million customers have submitted comments to the bureau opposing the initial rule and more recently supporting its reconsideration, sharing personal stories of how smalldollar loans helped in their time of need. Now, the bureau has a chance to truly listen to the Americans it serves and strike an appropriate balance between access to credit and consumer protection.

D. Lynn DeVault, chairman Community Financial Services Association of America Washington, D.C.

Guest Columnist Lynn Beckwith

Guest Columnist Rasheen Aldridge

County Library offers Cardinals-themed library card

St. Louis County Library and the St. Louis Cardinals are teaming up to offer a limited edition Cardinals library card in September for National Library Card Sign-up Month. Individuals without a library card are encouraged to sign up in September and take home the new Cardinals library card. A library card gives you access to free streaming content, books, DVDs, video games, online courses and more. Plus, you can check out interesting things with your library card including mobile hot-spots, telescopes, musical instruments, or binoculars. Individuals can sign up for a library card online or in person at any St Louis County Library location. A photo ID and proof of current address will be required. Library cards are free to those who live in or pay property taxes to St. Louis County, St. Louis or St. Charles County. Learn more at www.slcl.org/library-cards.

Oct. 15 application deadline for African-American heritage programs

There is an October 15 deadline to apply for funding assistance for African-American heritage programs through the Missouri Humanities Council. The mission of this heritage program is “to support partner organizations whose work increases our understanding of the African American experience through public programming in the humanities.”

We’ve got to get to the shooters before they shoot

By Jamala Rogers For The St. Louis American

The El Paso and Dayton massacres brought the total of mass shootings in the U.S. since January to 253, according to the Gun Violence Archive. The archive tracks mass shootings of incidents involving at least four people being shot. My reaction to the wails of grief and desperation is we know these shooters.

This was the point of a recent conversation with two local community activists, Martha Jane West and Doris Baltimore. Like other conversations in black and brown communities across the country, we are wondering what this latest trend of targeted people of color means for our safety.

contrast between how the mainstream media portrays the ethnicity of shooters. This column is about what we can immediately control in our own families and neighborhoods.

Big Mama knows her grandson Ray-Ray has a 9mm on the top shelf of his closet and that he’s easily agitated. David’s teacher read a disturbing essay about what he’d like to do to a rival. Jay is his cousin’s best friend and pretty much knows what he’s thinking – and when he’s ticking.

At the site of a homicide, news cameras capture inconsolable relatives and friends. A plea from a tearful loved one is always predictable: We gotta stop the killings! Words and prayers are powerful, but they don’t stop bullets. Personal intervention and collective action are required.

Most of those 253 mass shootings were done by young white men. Yet society has painted young blacks with a broad brush of criminality and violence. These misguided young black men are more likely to shoot their single victim in a fit of anger, unlike the white males who generally carry out detailed plans of mass murder with a high-powered arsenal and body armor.

Whether the shooter is a white, suburban male or a black, urban male, there are people who know or knew the person who pulled the trigger. These people are family members, friends, teachers, co-workers. The shooter has a circle of contacts around him who have witnessed his troubling behavior. The shooter is a friend, a son, a brother, an uncle, a grandson or a nephew. Too often, we act like we don’t know him or that his behavior came out of the blue. Our families and communities must take a more aggressive and compassionate approach to young men who are displaying behavior or communications that point to violent outcomes before law enforcement get involved. This is an important point of early contact that could curb the levels of violence infiltrating our daily lives.

Proposals should be submitted by a non-profit organization, or a civic, educational, or cultural organization that operates as a non-profit, including (but not limited to) schools and other educational institutions, local government and governmental agencies, and civic organizations. The council will fund up to $2,500 per awardee for projects and programs taking place in Missouri during 2020.

Detailed funding guidelines and application materials may be at www.mohumanities.org/african-americanheritage. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on October 15. Contact Caitlin Yager at caitlin@ mohumanities.org or 314-781-9660 with questions.

In recent weeks, five communities had to endure massacres with a body count of 35 and 81 injured. We know the racist and vitriolic hate from Trump’s bully pit has now put people of color in the crosshair of white nationalists.

Make a note of Trump’s irrefutable provocation although this particular column is not about him. Nor is it about the stark racial

This is a violent country. There have been multiple killing sprees from sea to shining sea. Every year, about 10,000 people are killed with almost double that amount injured. Let’s focus on the young people who let us know in some form or fashion that they are about to do harm to another human being. We need to get involved before these young men reach their breaking point. You know him. We know them. It’s past time that we stop being passive spectators and save some lives.

Jamala Rogers

Guns

Continued from A1

children. While several others speakers emphasized the need to “say something if you know something,” Thompson’s heart-wrenching words brought the hundreds in attendance to tears.

“I think people got it confused between snitching and telling,” Thompson said.

“Snitching to me is you go do a crime and one person gets caught and they bring up your name. When a grown person or teenager murders your eightyear-old child and you don’t come forward, it’s heartbreaking.” Before this happened to his family, Thompson would see the murders of other children and the police’s pleas for information on the news. He understands that desire to switch the channel or go back to playing video games, but he pled with the crowd not to do so.

“When your household is affected by it, it’s a whole different thing,” Thompson said. “I still have to move forward with my other two children, who are seven and 11, and be

Violence

Continued from A1 decades, and we are long overdue for comprehensive, transformative, evidencebased solutions to prevent crime and invest in our neighborhoods. Now is the time for solutions, not political posturing and pointing fingers.

I strongly support closing The Workhouse and using the $16 million savings to invest in Cure Violence, neighborhood revitalization, and other evidence-based crime prevention methods.

I propose the following first steps on how we can see this happen sooner rather than later.

Next week, when the Board of Aldermen returns, they should introduce a

there for them.”

Marnee Warren attended the vigil with her eight-yearold son.

“I’m ready to work with people to make a change because something has to happen,” she said. “It’s overwhelmingly heartbreaking to see that many kids on the screen. And it’s not even the end of the year. We still have four months left. That’s why we came. Whatever the movement is going to be, I’m going to be part of it.”

The Warrens came with Pamela Ellis, who called on neighborhood churches to start hosting more activities for children. She also wants to see more afterschool programs and community outreach.

“My husband tells me all the time, ‘You let those kids stay in that room and play that game,’” Ellis said. “But if they go outside, we worry about gunshots.”

While they both grew up riding their bikes freely in the neighborhoods, they don’t feel they can do that with their own children.

“If I’m not outside, he can’t go outside,” Warren said.

supplemental appropriations bill to fund Cure Violence. This appropriation should be offered as an annual match for corporate and philanthropic dollars to fully fund this program over a minimum of five years, with quarterly progress reports to the community. Another option is to propose a community benefits agreement for the new soccer stadium to include funding for these programs, since the city is providing the land free of charge. And for those who say that I should “put my money where my mouth is,” I offer the following receipts:

• The College Kids Children’s Savings program has over 13,500 children saving for post-secondary education and assets of almost $1 million since we started it

Black leaders call for action

On the same night, the St. Louis Board of Aldermen’s black caucus and U.S. Rep. Lacy Clay (D-St. Louis) held a town hall meeting at Harris-Stowe State University, where about 1,000 people attended.

“We’re here tonight because our nation, and this community, have reached a tipping point,” Clay said. “We are in the midst of an epidemic of gun violence that is inflicting devastating carnage on our community because of the culture of easy access to guns, and the failure of some elected officials to stand up to the gun lobby.” Clay spoke about his bill,

in 2015.

the Local Public Health and Safety Protection Act (H.R. 3435). This bill would — for the first time via federal legislation — prohibit any state that receives public safety grant funding from the U.S. Department of Justice from restricting the ability of a local government to enact tougher gun regulations than the current laws of that state.

Sharonda Edmondson, the mother of of 8-year old Jurnee Thompson, was comforted by James Clark of Better Family Life during a vigil for murdered children in St. Louis on August 28. Jurnee was killed by a stray bullet on August 23.

• Last fiscal year, I transferred over $11 million to the city to save the jobs of the Neighborhood Stabilization Officers, purchase tow trucks, and increase the city’s reserve fund.

• I raised wages to a minimum of $15 per hour for all employees in the Treasurer’s Office.

• My office paid for the Metrolink study, so we could get back in line for federal dollars to expand public transit in the city.

It’s worth noting that three out of four of my “receipts” answer calls to action from the Ferguson Commission. I am willing to work with anyone to make our city safe and to invest in communities so they can thrive and grow. But the continual pointing

Introduced in June, the bill is co-sponsored by over 20 congressmen, including U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II, D-Kansas City; U.S. Rep. Ayanna Pressley, D-Massachusetts; and U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-New York.

“We need Congress to act now,” Clay said. “Congress has the power to save American lives, and we

of fingers, platitudes, and posturing are distractions. We have everything we need to come together and put our city on a new path. The question is, will we?

What works

Cure

Violence: CAPCR, OBS, and several other organizations researched the best violence prevention programs around the country and proposed Cure Violence. This model has provided a 41-73 percent decrease in violence in targeted zones. Cities where it has been tried and studied include Baltimore, Chicago, New York, and Philadelphia. More mental health help, less incarceration: Miami shows what is possible with one aspect of the #CloseThe Workhouse approach to end mass incarceration. MiamiDade County created the Criminal Mental Health Project — a program that diverts people with mental disorders out of the criminal justice system and into community treatment to get

should be doing nothing less.”

On Tuesday, September 3, leaders of the Missouri Black Caucus met with Gov. Mike Parson but left without much hope for stricter gun control, St. Louis Public Radio reported.

State Rep. Ashley Bland Manlove (D-Kansas City) said the governor did not see legislative interest in making changes.

“There was discussion, but he seemed to be disheartened about his sway and making gun control an issue that we take over at a state level,” she told St. Louis Public Radio.

“He likes background checks, but he is concerned if he can make other people move based on their Second Amendment rights.”

Among the initiatives suggested were allowing municipalities like St. Louis and Kansas City to be able to require permits to carry a concealed weapon or restricting the sale of ammunition to anyone under 21.

State Rep. LaKeySha Bosley (D-St. Louis) said it was a starting point.

“That’s what this meeting was about,” said Bosley, “to try to find those avenues where we

can come together as a General Assembly, as the Black Caucus, as St. Louis city and Kansas City, to find functional things that work.”

Cure Violence

St. Louis is in the process of negotiating a contract for an alternative violence prevention program. The Cure Violence model — which treats violence as an epidemic outbreak and therefore a public health issue — is active in more than 25 cities throughout the world. The idea is to employ local residents who have respect, often ex-convicts, on the streets to prevent gun violence by de-escalating potentially violent situations before they happen.

On Thursday, Sept. 12, the community can hear updates and give input about this process at a meeting held by the Coalition Against Police Crimes and Repression (CAPCR). The meeting will be held from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Deaconess Center for Child Well Being, 1000 N. Vandeventer Ave.

St. Louis Public Radio contributed to this report.

help. Previously, according to a county judge, they were spending $218,000 a day, or $80 million a year, “to warehouse people in ... sub-par conditions.” So they trained over 4,600 police officers and saved millions by diverting people with mental disorders to get help, instead of enter the criminal justice system. After implementing the new program, their jail population had decreased from about 7,000 in 2008 to about 4,700 in 2014. The New England Journal of Medicine calls it a national model Community presence: Superintendent Adams wrote about SLPS’s Neighborhood Net program with Better Family Life. This uses a specific version of the “eyes on the street” approach that was studied with Chicago’s Safe Passage Program. According to one study, violent crime in those areas of Chicago declined by 14 percent on average, without a spillover effect. Adams also called for more collaborative leadership to solve this problem. I commend Adams for calling a work session on Thursday night, September 5 at 6 p.m. at Vashon High School. I encourage concerned citizens to attend.

What does not work

Rewards don’t work. Some research suggests a 2 percent claim rate More incarceration doesn’t work. As noted above, it’s expensive and the problems are often better solved by investing in communities. Surveillance without transparency doesn’t work The current proposal for body cameras is limited by state law that prohibits the release of footage until investigations are already complete, providing no opportunity for real public accountability.

Tishaura O. Jones is the treasurer of the City of St. Louis, the first woman and first African-American woman in that position. Her office’s investment strategy has yielded over $25 million for the city, and its College Kids program has helped 13,500 city students save nearly $1 million for higher education.

Photo by Wiley Price

Flynn Park

Continued from A1

can articulate her feelings and explain if she needs space.

“As she was able to better articulate her needs, she was better able to focus on her academic needs,” Wilson said.

“For that particular student, we needed to deal with the social emotional needs that she showed up here with. She is on the path to growth, and I am fully confident that as she remains here with us, she is going to be a student that we continue to celebrate.”

Wilson could tell many more stories of students who have faced trauma in their lives and struggle to focus in the classroom. It’s why the University City School District decided to make a “humancentered” transformation three years ago — one that involves a lengthy list of initiatives and partners. At the heart of it all is the commitment to give everyone a voice.

Flynn Park has consistently made academic gains over the years, Wilson said, but what the school community — teachers, administrators and families alike — is really celebrating are the gains in their “social-emotional connections.”

“It’s the relationships we are building with our students,” Wilson said. “It’s the safety we are creating. It’s the positive learning environment

Sherod

Continued from A1

Sherod also comes strongly endorsed by St. Louis Treasurer Tishaura O. Jones, who lost the crowded 2017 mayoral primary by just 888 votes or 1.6 percent of the vote.

“I believe Michelle has been called for such a time as this,” Jones told The American. “This seat has a long history of smart, bold, progressive, female leadership, and Michelle’s education and experience as an attorney, an accountant, and a small business owner is just what our region needs.”

Sherod brings with her campaign strong support from her years with McCaskill, as well as her legislative experience in the office. Tod Martin, McCaskill’s longtime, savvy deputy chief of staff, is working on Sherod’s campaign for state Senate.

Sherod told The American she is well suited to serve a diverse district that includes, she said, “parts of North City, the Central Corridor, a miniSilicon Valley, South City and Downtown.” For that reason, she said, “We need someone who is comfortable in the boardroom as well as in the community walking the streets. I think I can help get things done.”

Sherod, who grew up poor – “I cleaned houses with my mom when I was 12” – is licensed as both a lawyer and accountant. She currently runs her own legal and accounting firm, ALL Solutions. Previously she worked as an accountant with Deloitte and Touche, Ernst & Young and Southwestern Bell, and as an attorney with Sandberg Phoenix & VonGontard. She serves as president of the Jackie JoynerKersee Foundation’s Board of Directors.

Sherod enters the primary race knowing she has one primary opponent, state Rep. Steve Roberts (D-St. Louis), and suspecting she will have another, Alderwoman Megan Ellyia Green (D-St. Louis). Roberts already has announced his campaign, along with a string of previously reported endorsements. Green told The American she has opened an exploratory committee and will have an announcement soon.

“I sat down with Megan a couple of times. I sat down with Steve once,” Sherod told The American. “People have to follow their heart. I followed mine.” Taking into account two demographic factors that influence voting, if Green runs in the primary, then there would be two black candidates (Roberts and Sherod) and one white, as well as two female candidates and one male candidate. Green’s candidacy,

we’re creating. That is almost immeasurable, what we’re seeing. The students have learned how to express their needs, and we are learning how to meet those needs.”

For their important work, Flynn Park Elementary will be named the 2019 Bayer School of Excellence on Saturday, September 21, at the St. Louis American Foundation’s Salute to Excellence in Education Gala, held at America’s Center. “The honor represents the fantastic work of a dedicated and committed team at Flynn Park,” said Sharonica HardinBartley, superintendent of University City Schools, “a team that puts both the head and the heart at the center of the student learning experience.”

After Hardin-Bartley became superintendent in 2016, she led the district in drafting a strategic plan that aims to “humanize, personalize and problematize” the learning experience for their students. As a board member on the Ferguson Commission, Hardin-Bartley helped to write the commission’s recommendations for schools, specifically for addressing trauma. She is also a board member for Alive and Well Communities, a nonprofit that educates the region about trauma-informed practices. Hardin-Bartley brought all that expertise to the table when collectively and collaboratively writing the district’s new plan. So now when you have a

in this three-way field, could split the black vote and give the 5th District seat – historically a black seat in the Missouri Legislature – to a white progressive.

Green faced criticism for running for president of the Board of Aldermen this March when a black incumbent, Lewis Reed, faced a black challenger in Nasheed. Though Green was criticized by some for helping

conversation with educators at Flynn Park, it’s a whirlwind of acronyms and out-of-the-box sounding programs. There’s T.L.I. — Transformational Learning Institute — which trains teachers on how to build an environment where a “growth mindset” reigns.

There’s C.L.R. — Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Teaching and Learning, designed by Sharroky Hollie.

“We validate how they feel but we also re-teach, and that’s how we build the bridge,” said Rosalind Hollins-Lewis, a teacher instructional leader who coached the school in C.L.R.

preserve the status quo with Reed’s victory, Nasheed only beat her by 144 votes or 0.4 percent of the vote.

However, in recent years two black female candidates – Jones for treasurer and Kimberly Gardner for circuit attorney – won citywide offices against white candidates in crowded fields. There is some evidence that traditional binary thinking about voting

“With C.L.R. there is lots of time for movement to get up. Lots of times for students to celebrate each other, so it’s not just coming from their teacher. It helps build a sense of community.”

There’s also mindfulness training, where the school’s social worker Jona Ross comes in and leads the classes in 10-minute meditations. She also uses these practices with students one on one.

“It gives them time to separate the story in their head from the sensations in their body,” Ross said. “I ask them to put the story on pause and

demographics in St. Louis may be outdated.

Jones was diplomatic about the possibility of Green joining the primary.

“I would never ask someone not to run Jones told The American. “This is a democracy, and we all have a right to run for a seat if we believe we are the best candidate. I wish her the best and, if she decides to run, look

breathe and just pay attention to what they are feeling.”

Once they can get rid of the sensation, most of the time they are able to see things from a wider perspective, move past the issue and go back to class, Ross said.

There are also restorative circles.

“If a child feels like, ‘Something has happened to me,’ and it needs to be addressed in our classroom, then they have the ability to call that restorative circle,” Hollins-Lewis said. “The class meets and they problematize through that, ‘How can we solve this real-world problem?’”

Restorative circles have also helped to keep their suspensions down, HollinsLewis said, though the district has not completely stopped suspending students.

While many of these initiatives were district-wide, Wilson said that Flynn Park “sprinted” in adapting them at the school. Melissa Moussalli, a teacher instructional leader at Flynn Park, said that after the first year, the change was obvious — specifically in the teachers’ responses.

“We think of ourselves as the lead learners in this work,” Moussalli said. “We are learning alongside everyone else.”

Accepting that vulnerability in being learners, she said, is what helped them do what really needed to be done — let go.

forward to seeing her on the campaign trail next year, as I will be up for re-election for my third term as treasurer.”

“We relinquished what we thought was our role of running staff meetings,” Moussalli said. “We realized that wasn’t the way to shift culture, and we allowed more teacher voice in what this is going to look like in our building. Because ultimately they are the ones who fulfill this mission. That’s when the shifting started happening.”

Not everyone jumped in with both feet. Amanda Jones, an advanced placement teacher, remembers hearing the words “mindfulness” and cringing. It was a little too “kumbaya” for her taste, she said. But now three years later, she uses mindfulness and breathing techniques in her own personal life. And she’s seen how it’s helped her students to be more open to making mistakes and learning more freely, just as it has for her.

Laughing, Jones said about the mindfulness addition, “I’m not ashamed to admit that I was wrong.”

The 2019 Salute to Excellence in Education Gala will be held at 6 p.m. Saturday, September 21, 2019 at the America’s Center Ballroom, following a reception at 5 p.m. Tickets are on sale now. Individual tickets are $100 each/$1,000 table and VIP/ Corporate tickets are $1,500 table. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www. stlamerican.com and click on Salute to Excellence, or call 314-533-8000.

Sherod counted Maxine K. Clark, CEO of the ClarkFox Family Foundation and founder, Build-A-Bear Workshop, among her supporters in a conversation with The American, though when asked about the race –with the possibility of Green in the field – Clark was noncommittal.

“I don’t know enough at this moment to comment,” Clark told The American. “Michelle has a great reputation and is a solid business person –financially and legally savvy. Megan is a hard worker. I want a candidate that will represent a broader majority of St. Louis and the region.”

Photo by Rebecca Rivas

Jona Ross, school counselor, talks with third grader, Noah, at Flynn Park Elementary.

Racial equity and minority inclusion under Better Together’s Stenger

What if Better Together’s proposal had gone before the voters and been passed, as the editorial board of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch urged voters to do? What if Steve Stenger had become the new unelected mayor of the expanded metro St. Louis, as Better Together proposed (and St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson agreed, for reasons that are still difficult to comprehend)? What if William Miller had remained Stenger’s chief of staff, as Miller eventually told the FBI that Stenger had promised? What would that have looked like for racial equity in St. Louis? Remember “racial equity”? That was the key buzzword of the Ferguson Commission and its report: that St. Louis needed to be reviewed and reformed using a “racial equity lens.” Bill Miller remembered racial equity. Here he is talking the matter over with Stenger and Jeff Wagener (who had been Stenger’s chief of staff before he moved too slow to wrangle contracts for Stenger’s campaign donors via other arms of St. Louis County government).

Yaphett El-Amin directs MOKAN, which advocates for minority inclusion in the St. Louis building trades; previously she was a state legislator who advocated for minority inclusion statewide. Adolphus M. Pruitt uses his platform as president of the St. Louis NAACP to advocate for racial equity and justice –or, in the words of Stenger’s right-hand man, “inclusion and equity and shit.”

The transcript of the wiretap is dated October 2, 2018. Bill Miller is live.

“When you have [Yaphett] El-Amin [Director of MOKAN] and [Adolphus] Pruitt [Director of City NAACP] and all those f---ers arguing about inclusion and equity and shit, I’m like, f---, forget it. Of course, I have sued El Amin’s father, Eddie Hasan, for failing to pay his printing bill…. He wanted to f--- with me one night when we were trying to work out payment of this bill…so he made me go down to their place, it’s the Argus, which is in the f---ing hood…. I saw first-hand what MOKAN was…I just f---ing can’t stand those people, I just think it’s a racket.”

As a footnote, the Black Press makes an appearance in this transcript, which the Department of Justice reported in its sentencing memo for Miller. The Argus was a oncemighty local black weekly most recently owned by El Amin’s father, Eddie Hasan. Ironically, Miller himself has newspaper ink in his blood. He was the heir apparent to a family newspaper publishing and printing business, the Missourian Publishing Company, when he got active in politics, starting a long slide down the plumbing from legal counsel to Governor Jay Nixon to administrative law judge to Stenger’s right-hand man (at a salary of $130,000) and now, perhaps, Stenger’s prison cell mate.

This man who said he hated the president of the St. Louis NAACP and one of the region’s most staunch minority inclusion advocates, a man who equated “inclusion and equity” with “shit,” almost became the second most powerful person in St. Louis government. Had Better Together and the St. Louis Post-Dispatch editorial board had their way, he would have.

As Miller stated on December 6, 2018 in another discussion with Stenger and Wagener: “Every advice I give you is to make sure you’re OK, because the election is over, but 2020’s coming.”

St. Louis government. We have a skilled federal prosecution to thank for saving us from that nightmarish fate.

The DOJ wants Miller to pay for his crimes in strong-arming other county employees to do Stenger’s bidding. Assistant U.S. Attorney Hal Goldsmith, who led the prosecution, asked District Judge Rodney W. Sippel to sentence Miller within the federal guidelines of 15 to 21 months in prison. (Judge Catherine Perry sentenced Stenger to closer to four years.)

Goldsmith makes a strong case by showing how Stenger hand-picked Miller to replace Wagener when Wagener was not making enough rain fall on Stenger’s campaign donors. “As one executive at the St. Louis Economic Development Partnership put it when interviewed by the FBI, ‘Wagener would never threaten people the way Miller currently does,’” Goldsmith’s sentencing memo notes.

another Stenger staffer on how to get Sheila Sweeney, then the CEO of the St. Louis Economic Development Agency, to go along with the pay-to-play scheme. They are preparing for a group meeting with Sweeney, where Miller felt the need to show restraint. However, Miller said on November 20, 2018, “If it was just me and her, in some dark room somewhere, I might make it a little bit more forceful.”

‘Happy gone’ for Krewson?

Yaphett El-Amin director of MOKAN, and Adolphus M. Pruitt, president of the St. Louis NAACP, make a cameo appearance in the DOJ’s sentencing memo calling for prison time for William Miller, who was then-St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger’s chief of staff.

Photo by Wiley Price

This performance requires some unpacking for those who may not know all of the offstage players.

The “election” was Stenger’s reelection as county executive. What was coming in 2020 would be Stenger’s ascension, with Miller right behind him, to leadership of the unified metro

The transcripts also give us a glimpse of Miller’s art of the threat. It’s a chilling moment. Miller is coaching the (evidently wired and cooperating) Wagener and

Hearing how Stenger and Miller talked about politics and power when they thought they were “in some dark room somewhere” has made many people wonder what those transcripts reveal about how they discussed St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson and her vanishing role in the metro St. Louis government that would have vastly empowered Stenger. We do get to hear Stenger talk about moving Sweeney out of the way in the Miller sentencing memo.

“We ought to work a real careful plan on getting Sheila

gone and let her do something off into the sunset,” Stenger said to Miller and Wagener. “Maybe there’s a way to work it so she’s gone, and she’s happy gone…But she’s happy gone and not f---ing with us.”

One wonders: was there a “happy gone” worked out for Lyda Krewson under the Better Together scheme?

As much public interest as there may be in the volumes of covert recordings of Stenger and his minions, the DOJ generally does not use evidence it gathers publicly for anything other than the prosecution of cases, including pretrial hearings, trial, and sentencing. After all, a judge gave the DOJ permission to investigate specific crimes, not simply to eavesdrop indiscriminately. Also, the feds don’t like to disclose investigative techniques –source of recordings, presence of telephone wiretap, which individuals were wearing wires, what offices and homes were bugged – which could be gleaned from the recordings.

So we may not never know whether Krewson had a “happy gone,” and if so what that was – unless there is some criminal

element, in which case we may one day hear much more about it. As for Miller, he is scheduled for sentencing this coming Friday, September 6 at 11 a.m. before District Judge Sippel. In arguing against the defense’s appeal to leniency because Miller was merely following orders, Goldsmith responds with an awe-inspiring two-punch combo citing the most notorious trials, literally, in the history of the world and the United States. “Such a defense was soundly rejected 70 years ago by the Court during the Nuremberg trials following World War II,” Goldsmith argues. “We can also look to the Watergate scandal of the 1970s, where President Richard Nixon’s own Chief of Staff, H. R. Haldeman, attempted such a defense, but was convicted and sent to federal prison for his criminal conduct.”

Alexander Butterfield hotline

Goldsmith reminded the court that Miller had other options. Miller could have done what Alexander Butterfield did as deputy assistant to Nixon when he blew the whistle. Now Stenger’s interim successor, St. Louis County Executive Sam Page, wants everybody to be an Alexander Butterfield. On August 29, Page signed into law a bill that will set up a whistleblower hotline. The county’s director of Administration will now begin the process of hiring an outside company to operate a 24-hour hotline and allow for tips via phone, fax or email.

Justin Timothy Thacker

William Miller

The science of art

LaStarsha McGarity wants to combine art and science into a career, and the Saint Louis Art Museum is pleased to have helped make her dreams and aspirations come true. McGarity arrived at the Museum in August 2018 to begin a one-year internship in the Museum’s conservation department. When asked why she chose the Saint Louis Art Museum for her year-long internship, McGarity responded, “I felt SLAM would provide the right opportunity for me to learn about both unique and routine hands-on conservation treatments.”

With more than 34,000 works of art in the Art Museum’s collection, McGarity has worked on a wide variety of conservation projects, in addition to standard treatments such as polishing silver and dusting ceramics. During your next visit to the Museum, be sure to check out Richard Serra’s To Encircle Base Plate Hexagram, Right Angles Inverted in the asphalt of Fine Arts Drive between the front steps of the Museum and the St. Louis sculpture. McGarity and a team cleaned the metal, coated the embedded surfaces with a protective coating, and installed it in the roadway with a system that helps reduce rust occurrence. McGarity also had the opportunity to work on Al Loving’s painting titled Zayamaca #4, a gift of the

Ollie family, for the upcoming exhibition The Shape of Abstraction: Selections from the Ollie Collection. This sculptural painting is comprised of a paper collage painted with acrylic and mounted to plexiglas. The artwork was disassembled, and a stiffening material was adhered between the layers with archival materials to improve inherent structural weaknesses. McGarity especially enjoyed the numerous personal interactions she had while conserving the art. She spoke with Ron Ollie, the collector who gave the Loving painting to the Museum, and the artist’s estate, managed by Mara Kearney Loving, about Loving’s working style, artistic vision, and expressed wishes about the life of his art. McGarity is completing a Master’s of Art in Art Conservation and a Certificate of Advanced Study in Conservation Science in the Patricia H. and Richard E. Garman Art Conservation Department at SUNY Buffalo State College. In addition to her internship at the Art Museum, McGarity has gained invaluable experience with internships and fellowships at Museum of Mississippi History, Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, Brooklyn Museum of Art, Texas Southern University, Cleveland Museum of Art, Smithsonian’s National Museum of African Art, and Smithsonian’s

National Museum of African American History and Culture. McGarity finds the combination of art and science in conservation fascinating and feels connected to the stories that each piece she works on can tell. As an HBCU alumna, she hopes to encourage and support more students of color to pursue a career in conservation and to encourage the current field to serve communities and institutions of color better. According to the Art Museum Demographic Survey of 2018, people of color comprise only 11 percent of conservation professionals and only 4 percent of the new hires between 2015 – 2018.

The Saint Louis Art Museum’s Conservation Department opened in 1963 with one painting conservator. Today the department includes a director of conservation with nearly ten conservators and technicians conserving not only painting but also textiles, paper, and objects. McGarity bids farewell to St. Louis and begins the final step in her training to be a museum conservator with a three-year Andrew W. Mellon Foundation Fellow at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC starting in September. We know that McGarity will be a great addition to the museum conservation field.

Dancing in September at Twilight Tuesdays

By Ellen Kunkelmann

School is back in session, but your family can hang on to that mellow summer feeling with Twilight Tuesdays concerts at the Missouri History Museum! This familyfriendly, free outdoor concert series kicked off on September 3 with Motown Revue and will continue on Tuesdays throughout September, starting at 6 p.m. All concerts end by 8 p.m., so your kids can burn off pent-up energy but still get a good night’s rest. Space is available on a firstcome, first-served basis; plan to arrive early to save a spot on the Museum’s front lawn (facing Lindell Boulevard). You can bring blankets, lawn chairs, and tables that are smaller than 3 by 3 feet. Well-behaved dogs on leashes are also permitted. Pack a picnic basket or small cooler with snacks, soft drinks, water bottles, and alcoholic beverages (no glass bottles, please), or save time and support a local small business by visiting one of the many food trucks. Scheduled food trucks include Andrew’s Bayou Ribs, Beer Outside, Blues Fired Pizza, Brazil Express by Yemanja Brasil Restaurante, the Crooked Boot, Homestyle Grill, Scoops and More, Seoul Taco Truck, St. Louis Kettle Corn and Funnel Cakes, Street Dogz, Tikiz of St. Louis, and 2 Girls 4 Wheels. Please check mohistory.org/twilightTuesdays for the complete food truck schedule (subject to change), as well as a list of prohibited items. Parking is available in the Twin Lots just south of the Visitor Center in Forest Park, and there’s also plenty of street parking in Forest Park itself. Please see mohistory. org/twilight-tuesdays for information about using mass transit to get to Twilight Tuesdays. For last-minute weather cancellations, call the Twilight Tuesdays Information Hotline at (314) 454-3199

or listen to the iHeartMedia stations after 2 p.m. on concert days. On concert evenings the Museum’s History Clubhouse stays open until 7:30 p.m. Kids can learn about St. Louis’s history in a hands-on way by dressing up in historical costumes, putting on a puppet show, fishing over the edge of a canoe, pulling a steamboat whistle, and more! The Museum’s education staff will also host a make-and-take craft table in the gallery. Restrooms

n On concert evenings the Museum’s History Clubhouse stays open until 7:30 p.m. Kids can learn about St. Louis’s history in a hands-on way.

and quiet spaces are available inside the Museum for families who need some downtime. Twilight Tuesdays

September 10: Love Jones the Band Love Jones the Band—the winner of the RFT Music Award in the R&B category in 2015—is back for another Twilight Tuesdays show on September 10. Love Jones band members V. Kent Jones, Melvin Moore, Ryan Jones, and Tracy Mitchell are known for their wide range, covering artists from Stevie Wonder to Erykah Badu, as well as their pure love of music. As they say, “It’s always beautiful when you see a group of musicians who absolutely LOVE what

they do . . . you might even say they JONES for it!”

September 17: Coleman Hughes Project Featuring Adrianne

Concertgoers on September 17 will be treated to the smooth jazz and classic R&B of Coleman Hughes Project Featuring Adrianne, which has been called “a smooth version of Rufus featuring Chaka Khan.” Coleman Hughes Project includes Terry “TC1” Coleman, Carlos “Los” Hughes, Timothy “TC2” Chandler, and Jason “Swag” Swaggler, plus lead vocalist Adrianne FultonKing. This Twilight Tuesdays favorite has also performed at past Juneteenth celebrations at the Museum.

September 24: Brock Walker Tribute Band—Earth, Wind & Fire

The Museum will close its 2019 Twilight Tuesdays series with the Brock Walker Tribute Band, which will light up the twilight sky with a tribute to Earth, Wind & Fire on September 24. Musical director and keyboardist Brock Walker leads this 13-piece group of local artists who will fill the autumn night with wellknown songs such as “Boogie Wonderland,” “Fantasy,” and— of course—“September.” This tribute, originated by Walker in 2012, returns to the Twilight Tuesdays stage featuring Karl Holmes on lead vocals and the sweet background harmonies of Anita Jackson, Adrianne Felton-King, and Tasha B.

The Missouri History Museum is grateful for the support of our Twilight Tuesdays sponsors: Anthem, Hallelujah 1600, 103.3 KLOU, Majic 103.7, Out in STL, and Riverfront Times. We look forward to seeing you this September! Ellen Kunkelmann is associate editor at the Missouri Historical Society.

For The St. Louis American

UAPO celebrates Marcus Garvey, defends Kimberly Gardner

American staff

On Sunday, August 18, the Universal African Peoples Organization (UAPO), led by longtime human rights activist Zaki Baruti, held its 30th annual celebration of the great Pan-Africanist visionary Marcus “Mosiah” Garvey. The featured speaker was Kimberly Gardner, the first black circuit attorney for the City of St. Louis.

The event was held at Legacy Bookstore with over 175 people in attendance, who were there to celebrate Garvey’s 132nd birthday and to express their support for Gardner. The theme for the program was “The Quest for Social Justice Reforms.”

As Gardner entered the hall, she was greeted with a standing ovation. In her opening remarks, she revisited the trials and tribulations of Garvey, who was falsely accused and convicted of mail fraud in 1923. She compared his situation to the plight she is currently facing with the unprecedented attack upon her for the social justice reforms that she is working to implement through her office.

She reminded the audience that at the height of the popularity of Garvey’s movement under the Universal Negro Improvement Association with a membership of over two million, that the powers to be were determined to destroy his organization. In addressing social justice reforms, Gardner emphasized that she did not support the current trend across this country of mass incarceration. She pointed out that just locking up nonviolent offenders caused great harm to black and poor families in St. Louis and throughout the United States.

To that end, she outlined her diversion program as a logical alternative to incarcerating nonviolent offenders. This creative program would allow those who have run afoul of the legal system a second opportunity by engaging in community service work. The audience overwhelming supported her plans.

After her presentation, there was a lively question and answer session. Baruti, president/general of the UAPO, said that Gardner was under attack by the “white powers that be” for implementing her progressive diversion program; for her efforts to indict Eric Greitens, who was then governor of Missouri and darling of the national Republican Party; and for creating an exclusionary list of over 50 police officers from whom her office will not take any cases because of their documented misdeeds. In attendance were a number of progressive organizations that expressed their solidarity with Gardner.

In concluding the program, Baruti had the audience repeat one of Marcus Garvey’s great quotes: “Up, you mighty race, you can accomplish what you will!”

Be a Tourist in Your Own Town

Fall Festivals in St. Louis for everyone

By Kiara Bryant For the St. Louis American

The month of September is full of entertainment and festivals for you to enjoy. From Labor Day and beyond, you’ll find something for every member of your family. We hope you’ll check out these upcoming events in the area.

The Regional Business Council and The St. Louis Civic Pride Foundation recently kicked off a week-long celebration of skilled careers called STL. Works Week. At its heart, STL.works is a resource designed to enhance perceptions of skilled careers and encourage applicants to pursue careers in the areas of healthcare, tech, manufacturing, and construction trades. The initiative is born from the necessity of filling the pipeline with qualified applicants to help our region grow.

When BBQ is what you crave, you’ve got to come to Q in the Lou (September 27-29). Try some of the best barbeque at St. Louis’ BBQ Festival full of awardwinning, flavorful meats and live music downtown in Kiener Plaza. You can also learn from some of the best in BBQ with live demonstrations while eating a slow smoked rack of ribs or a seared steak.

In September, admire the works of art by nearly 200 visual artists from across the nation at the 25th Annual Saint Louis Art Fair on September 6-8 in downtown Clayton. In addition to the art, there are three stages of entertainment, hands-on educational activities for children and tasty treats.

If you’re looking to have aweinspiring family time, The Great Forest Park Balloon Race & Balloon Glow, takes flight September 20-21. This well-attended St. Louis institution is

The Regional Business Council and The St. Louis Civic Pride Foundation recently kicked off a week-long celebration of skilled careers called STL. Works Week.

celebrating more than 45 years of tradition and spectacular views.

Delight with all of your senses while taking in the food, music, and art offered at the annual Taste of St. Louis (September 13-15) which returns downtown this year at Soldiers Memorial. Be sure to stop by and try the region’s best restaurants, the Stella Artois Chef Battle Royale culinary competition, marketplace, and music stage as well as the kids’ kitchen and the village. And don’t forget to support the second annual Taste of Black St. Louis on Sept. 14 in Tower Grove Park which offers food, culture, music, and community. The heat may be cooling off, but local entertainment and events are certainly not. From live music, museum exhibits and your other favorite attractions, visit explorestlouis.com for the latest in ways to have fun around town.

Photo courtesy of the Regional Business Council.

Kimberly Gardner

Transforming students into medical pros

STLCC Forest Park opens new health workforce training facility

By Sandra Jordan

Nursing and health sciences students and faculty at St. Louis Community College at Forest Park have a beautiful new facility to train for skilled health careers of today and tomorrow with the opening of the Center of Nursing and Health Sciences. “In this new educational center, students will

Kymya J. Daily is 1000th patient of pediatric clinic in Ferguson

SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Pediatric Specialty Services clinic in North County recently served its 1000th patient, Kymya J. Daily, and staff celebrated with the little girl who hit the lucky number. The clinic – the only one of its kind in the North County area – opened earlier this spring at 3878 Pershall Rd. in Ferguson, in combination with SLUCare Physician Group. Key services offered at the site on include: Endocrinology, ENT, Gastroenterology, Imaging, Neurology, Orthopedics, Pulmonology, Renal/ Hypertension, Sleep Medicine, Sports Medicine and Urology. For more information, visit http://tinyurl.com/ yxt7gpwc.

be transformed into medical professionals who serve and benefit everyone here in our community,” said Bill Hubble, dean of STLCC District Health Sciences.

By David Patterson Silver Wolf For The St. Louis American

One of the reasons I became an addiction counselor and obtained advanced degrees in social work was my awareness that people in power neither resembled nor came from those communities most in need.

n We must develop a leadership team that resembles, reflects and accurately represents those beleaguered communities.

There are currently 444 nursing students enrolled in nursing.

Hubble says the estimated cost for the entire nursing program is $17,000. And,

“STLCC students will receive knowledge and be immersed in state of the art simulated environments to receive high quality training, and develop medical skills necessary to perform in dental hygiene, dental assisting, nursing, respiratory care, radiologic technology, diagnostic medical technology, clinical laboratory technology, surgical technology, emergency medical technology, and paramedic technology.”

In 1990, after I completed a 30-day addiction treatment program in Louisville, Kentucky, I decided that rather than returning to my job as a garbage man, I would enroll in the local community college and get an education. The only way I could pull that off was to enter the VOA – the Volunteers of America – and that meant living in a group home for over two years. At VOA, I lived with men who were homeless, addicted to alcohol and drugs, and suffering from other disorders. I looked like them, and they looked like me. Which is probably why, when my fellow residents had appointments with people who were supposed to help them, they asked me to accompany them. Like me, most of these men came from marginalized communities. Most of the “helping” professionals didn’t. During those days in the early 1990s, the professional’s condescension toward these folks resulted in additional barriers to treatment. These barriers led to unnecessary suffering and exacerbated issues of addiction. Today, such barriers lead to overdose deaths. Minorities in the St. Louis area now lead the state in opioid-related overdose deaths. If you are black or brown, you are probably unsurprised to hear this. Those leading efforts to tackle the opioid epidemic are also unsurprised. The data have been consistent for decades: minorities and the underserved consistently die from overdoses at disproportionately high rates.

Of The St. Louis American

St. Louis Community College Chancellor Jeff L. Pittman, students, staff and builders celebrate the opening of the Center of Nursing and Health Sciences at the Forest Park campus on Friday, August 23.

David Patterson Silver Wolf

Photo By Wiley Price

Mild asthma patients may not need inhalers every day

Washington University study questions wisdom of daily dose regardless of symptoms

By Shahla Farzan Of St. Louis Public Radio

Some kids with mild asthma only need to use their inhalers when they have symptoms, according to research from Washington University. That’s a major departure from traditional guidelines that recommend patients use their inhalers every day, regardless of how they’re feeling.

The study, which focused on African-American children in St. Louis, found no difference in symptoms or lung function between kids who used their steroid inhalers every day and those who used them as needed. Following an “as-needed” treatment strategy may help some patients cut down on the total amount of medicine they need to manage their asthma — and may reduce overall costs for lowincome populations.

For the past three decades, the Global Initiative for Asthma has recommended asthma patients take a daily dose of inhaled corticosteroids, which reduce inflammation in the lungs.

“It keeps those airways open, in case you’re exposed to a trigger,” said Reagan Nelson, program director for the St. Louis chapter of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. “If you get a cold, it’s going to trigger your asthma, and you want to have all the cards stacked in your favor.”

But some low-income patients might not be able to afford the daily medication. Between 2008 and 2013, the annual per person cost of having asthma was about $3,200. Prescription drug costs account for more than half of that total.

There are also concerns about the potential side effects of inhaling steroids every day, including reduced growth rate and hormonal

STLCC

Continued from A12 he said the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX) pass rates “compare and meet with the results of other highquality nursing programs. In 2018, the average pass rate for NCLEX was 94% for STLCC students.”

The ribbon-cutting celebration for the new building, led by STLCC Chancellor Jeff L. Pittman, took place Friday, August 23. It is the first new building constructed at the campus in 20 years.

“Not everybody has symptoms every day, so it’s very hard for the patient to be motivated to take their medicine every day, especially if they’re feeling well,” said Kaharu Sumino, a pulmonologist and associate

professor of medicine at Washington University.

A growing body of research shows “as-needed” inhaler use may be just as effective as daily preventative use in controlled clinical trials, but Sumino and her colleagues wanted to test whether these

patterns held up in real-life settings. They enrolled more than 200 African American kids with mild asthma in St. Louis. Not only are African American children more likely to have asthma than white children, according to the St.

Louis Equity Indicators Report, they’re also 10 times more likely to visit the emergency room for asthma-related problems.

Half the kids in the study used their steroid inhalers daily — the traditional recommendation — while

the rest only used inhalers when they had symptoms.

A year later, the kids in the two groups were virtually indistinguishable in terms of their symptoms and lung function.

What’s more, the kids who took asthma medication as needed used a quarter of the medicine as the daily users, potentially saving those families hundreds of dollars.

Because the study focused on patients with mild asthma, Sumino cautioned this treatment may not be for everyone.

“We’re not trying to say this is better; we’re trying to say it can be considered as an option,” she said.

Sumino and her colleagues hope to develop materials that doctors can use to educate their patients about this treatment strategy.

Reagan Nelson, who was not affiliated with the study, called the results “exciting” and said symptom-based treatment may help the low-income patients her organization serves better manage their asthma.

“Inhaled corticosteroids are very expensive, and cost is a huge barrier for a lot of families,” Nelson said. “Hearing that they can use less of the most expensive medicine that they need is really meeting patients where they are.”

But she stressed that patients need to talk with their doctors before changing the way they manage their asthma.

“I think it’s exciting that after 30 years we’re starting to look at alternative therapies,” Nelson said. “But like with any new strategy, it needs to be a partnership with your physician to maintain that asthma control.”

Follow Shahla on Twitter: @shahlafarzan. Reprinted with permission from news.stlpublicradio.org.

Continued from A12

Why?

At Washington University in St. Louis’ Brown School

I am proudly associated with two programs that are addressing minority health and wellness issues. The Kathryn M. Buder Center for American Indian Studies is committed to training Native American social work graduate students. The recently launched Collaboration on Race, Inequality, and Social Mobility

“For our region to flourish, college is a responsive resource for an educated and skilled workforce.” Fickas added that the new center will help address the critical skills gap that exists in the health care work force.

Health science programs at STLCC also train students for careers in fire protection, funeral services, occupational therapy assistant, physical therapist assistant and respiratory care. “I believe the environment that a student learns must be

“For our students, the college is a pathway from secondary education to a fouryear degree or a career or job,” said Julie Fickas, campus president and chief academic officer at STLCC-Forest Park.

in America (CRISMA) brings together scholars from multiple disciplines, including psychology, public health and social work, to examine and address the impact of inequality and structural racism.

Both programs focus on still-developing science associated with improving health outcomes in minority communities. However, their most effective mission – and the one related to this discussion – is their focus on training and educating individuals who come from minority communities. It

n “In this new educational center, students will be transformed into medical professionals.”

– Bill Hubble, dean of STLCC District Health Sciences

conducive to what the student is learning, so I am excited about this facility,” state Senator Karla May, an STLCC alumni, said at the event. “I appreciate the partnership that we invest in our future, we invest in our students and with this type of investment, we will continue to produce the brightest and most talented workforce in the health care industry.”

Linda Martinez, deputy mayor for development for

is not enough to rely on the good intentions of decisionmakers to ensure that these communities benefit equally and equitably from healthrelated services. In order to really address health disparities, the folks that need the help must be present and actively participating in decision-making about how best to identify and meet their needs.

Sal Valadez, a labor activist and fellow in the Washington University School of Medicine, states that Missouri’s response to the opioid crisis provides no specific strategies, no specific

the city of St. Louis, said with over eight major hospitals and medical centers, dozens of outpatient health care centers and two major medical schools, “this is among many reasons why we are grateful St. Louis Community College has chosen to invest in the latest technology, critical lab spaces, learning experiences for these in-demand programs.”

The $39 million, 96,000 sq. ft. center has a dental clinic, allied health, science labs and

programs and no dedicated funding to marginalized communities. In what Mr. Valadez calls lazy public health, there is no community member representation on the state’s leadership team.

To address the significant increases in local opioid overdose rates, our first step must be to develop a leadership team that resembles, reflects and accurately represents those beleaguered communities. Even those with the best intentions cannot solve problems that they don’t fully understand.

It’s been said that the disease of addiction has no

classrooms, simulation labs, teaching area, flexible space and seating, innovation space, natural light and is certified LEED Silver. An STLCC spokeswoman said funding for the Center for Nursing and Health Sciences comes from wraparound finances with bonds the college already owned. The college will only pay interest on new bonds until existing bonds are paid off. The Board of Trustees approved the cost and financing structure in August 2017 to have a minimal impact on the STLCC’s operating budget.

Pittman said the building was built on time and within budget.

racial preference; that it’s an “equal opportunity destroyer.”

But in real life, the poor and underserved – often people of color – shoulder the largest burdens and face the highest obstacles to receiving the help they desperately want and need.

This is true in part because, unlike the disease of addiction, public health responses do seem to have racial preferences.

To be sure, much of this is unintentional, and undoubtedly those charged with addressing such problems genuinely want to save lives and to do good.

But if Missouri is ever to

Sandra Rotty, vice president at Tarlton, said, “The single design and implementation of construction along a very diverse group of contractors, tradesmen and artisans are a direct representation of the college’s progressive thinking about requirements in today’s environment.”

The new Health and Sciences Center also becomes the new front door to the STLCC Forest Park campus, which is located at 5600 Oakland Ave. in St. Louis.

St. Louis-based KAI Enterprises and Tarlton led the design and construction. STLCC stated that many contractors involved in the project are designated womenor minority-owned business enterprises.

have an equality of response, there needs to be an equality of representation. As long as a racially and culturally homogeneous group of health leaders and decision-makers come solely from ivory towers and governmental offices, and not from the communities in the greatest need, the most marginalized and underserved among us will continue to pay the highest price.

David Patterson Silver Wolf, PhD, is an associate professor in the Brown School at Washington University in St Louis.

Cenya Davis, 9, puffs on her inhaler in this 2018 file photo. A new Washington University study followed more than 200 African American children in St. Louis, a demographic that is 10 times more likely to visit the hospital for asthma than white children. release.

Photo Ryan Delaney / St. Louis Public Radio

Fruits & Vegetables

What Is A Calorie?

Nutrition Challenge:

One way to make sure you’re getting the nutrition your body needs is to have a goal of (at least) 5 servings of fresh fruits and vegetables — every single day! Each serving is only about ½ cup, so it’s easier than you think! Here are a few tips.

Calories are a way to measure the amount of “energy” gained from eating something. So if you eat a medium apple (about 100 calories), that’ll provide the energy for you to do a simple physical task such as walk around the block. Calories aren’t the bad guys; extra weight happens

Healthy Kids Healthy Kids

> Start off your day with a piece of fruit!

> Try new fruits and vegetables each week.

> Why not add fruits or vegetables to your fall baking? You can boil and puree many different kinds to add to cakes, breads, etc.

> What are some other ways to add fruits/ vegetables to your diet?

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

when we consume (eat) more of them than we need. That’s why it’s important to stay physical and burn those calories throughout the day. Here are some ideas, and the calories an average 125-pound person will burn in 30 minutes (depending on speed).

One of the best ways to protect yourself from getting sick is to wash your hands. Think about surfaces that are touched by many people: door handles, computer keys, telephones, stair railings and sports equipment. If the person using it before you is sick and then you touch it, you could catch their illness from the germs they leave behind. So practice washing your hands multiple times a day, especially before eating, to stay healthier!

Learning Standards: HPE 2, HPE 3, NH 1, NH 7

Flav-O-Pop

> Walking = 120-150

> Running = 180-300

> Biking = 240-300

> Mowing = 135

> Watching TV = 23

Visit http://www.calorieking. com for an excellent guide to the calories in the foods you eat.

Learning Standards:

Ingredients: Low-Fat or Air-Popped Popcorn

Flavorings: Taco Seasoning, Parmesan Cheese, Hot Pepper Flakes, Garlic Powder, Italian Seasoning, etc.

Directions: Prepare popcorn. Sprinkle your favorite flavoring on top and shake, shake, shake! Experiment with different combinations to create a delicious snack!

Geoffrey Ikpeama, Infection Prevention Specialist

Where do you work? I work at St. Louis Children’s Hospital.

Where did you go to school? I graduated from Sunnydale Academy, Centralia, Missouri. I earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Kent State University in Kent, Ohio, a master’s degree in public health from St. Louis University and a doctor of medicine degree from the American University of Antigua.

What does an infection prevention specialist do? Every day I look for bacteria, viruses, and other things that cause infections. It lets me find ways to investigate how to keep people safe and fight off the different types of bacteria that make people sick.

Why did you choose this career? I really enjoy helping to keep people safe and fighting against all of the different types of bacteria and viruses. It’s a really great way to learn about how science is connected to so many things we interact with every day.

What is your favorite part of the job you I work with really great people and I learn something new every day. I also travel to other hospitals and cities, where I get to hear what other people do to keep people safe as well. This job really gives me the opportunity to work in a variety of settings and interact with a lot of different groups, such as doctors, but I also work with construction companies.

Learning Standards: HPE6, NH3

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

Did you know rockets are faster and more powerful than airplanes or helicopters? In fact, they have enough power to travel through the atmosphere into outer space. When they travel at speeds of 28,000 km/h, they enter orbit. The shape of rockets continues to change and evolve to improve their effectiveness. The shape of the fins on the bottom of the rocket have become wider to help the rocket stay on course. Fuel is burned with oxygen in a chamber. As the gases heat up, they expand and stream

backwards. This creates a thrust, which launches the rocket forward. Rockets require a lot of fuel to travel. That is why they are so big—to give them plenty of room for all of the needed fuel.

For more advanced information on rockets, visit: http://sciencelearn.org. nz/Resources/390-rockets-andthrust.

SCIENCE INVESTIGATION

Background Information:

In this experiment, you’ll create a thrust of energy that will propel a balloon forward.

Materials Needed:

• Balloon • 3 Meters Length of Kite String • Plastic Straw

• Tape Process:

q Thread one end of the string through the straw.

w Tie each end of the string between two solid supports such as a chair, table leg or door knob, making sure it is strung tightly. This creates your string track.

e Blow up the balloon but do not tie it.

Use your math skills to answer these questions.

z The gravity of the Moon is 17% of Earth’s gravity. To calculate your weight on the Moon, multiply your weight by 0.17. What is your weight on the Moon? ______

x Using the same formula (multiply weight by .17), if a dog weighs 35 pounds on Earth, what would it weigh on the Moon? ______

c How much would a 5 pound bag of sugar weigh on the Moon?

African-American Mechanical Engineer & Inventor Jerry Shelby

Jerry Shelby was born in New Orleans on June 23, 1950. When he was 18, he dropped out of high school to join the Marines and fight in the Vietnam War. During a mission, Shelby lost his left leg and suffered serious harm to his right arm: muscle loss, thick scarring, and tissue damage.

Shelby says, “At 19, I was home in New Orleans. I couldn’t walk very well with my new wooden leg and I couldn’t write very well because of the injuries to my right arm.”

To learn to reuse his arm, he took drafting classes while earning his GED. Next, he enrolled in Southern University in Baton Rouge, LA, to earn his mechanical engineering degree. He later earned his master’s degrees in management and business administration. After earning his degree, he worked for IBM in Texas, and then for General Dynamics, in California, before heading back to New Orleans to work at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center.

r Hold the opening of the balloon closed with your fingers, tape one side of the balloon to the straw so that it hangs horizontally below the string.

t Countdown to launch and let the balloon go.

y Observe as your balloon rocket travels across the string track.

Learning Standards: I can follow sequential directions to complete an experiment. I can observe, analyze, and draw conclusions.

v If you weighed 25.5 pounds on the Moon, what would you weigh on Earth?

For some math activities from NASA, visit: http://spaceplace.nasa.gov/math-activities/en/. To find your weight in different worlds, visit: http://www.exploratorium.edu/ronh/weight/.

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

NASA became operational on October 1, 1958 — one year after the Soviets launched Sputnik 1, the world’s first artificial satellite.

Learning Standards: I can read nonfiction text for main idea and supporting details. I can make text-to-world connections. The United Nations declared October 4-10,

On July 12, 1994, he received U.S. patent #5,328,132 for his engine protection system for a recoverable rocket booster invention. When rockets are propelled in to space, they will lose their boosters. Shelby’s invention allows these boosters to have extra protection so that they can be reused. This reusable device features an inflatable air bag hinged at opposite sides, with springs that force the bag open. This bag is in a “stowed” position during launch. Pressurized gas forces it open. As the bag inflates, it creates a seal. This seal prevents water from entering the engine as the booster becomes submerged in water.

Shelby was one of seven Purple Heart recipients inducted into the honor roll of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, George A. Rauh Chapter 2201.

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

MAP CORNER

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

Activity One —

Context Clues: Find 10 unfamiliar words in the newspaper. First, use your to guess what the word means. Next, use the dictionary to write the official definition. Finally, think of a synonym and antonym for the word.

Activity Two —

Alliteration: Alliteration is the repetition of first consonant sounds in words close to each other. For example, “The Sweet Smell of Success” Find 3 examples of alliteration in the newspaper. What is the purpose of alliteration? Choose a consonant and use it to create an alliterated headline.

Learning Standards: I can use the newspaper to locate information. I can apply context clues and use dictionary skills. I can evaluate the purpose and use of alliteration. I can create alliteration.

Russell Elementary School principal, Dr. Strauther, helps students Haylei Martin, Marcus Hester, Miracle Harris and Ma’Kenzie Gilbert work a science experiment found on the NIE STEM page of the newspaper.

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American.

Race, sex and disability and out-of-school suspension

Brown School, Forward Through Ferguson study shows ‘astronomical’ disparities

By Neil Schoenherr Washington University

In St. Louis area schools, some students are far more likely to be suspended than those least at risk — 20, 30 or even 60 times more likely, finds a new study from the Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis and Forward Through Ferguson.

The study found that being black, male or having a disability places students at greater risk of out-of-school suspension (OSS). When all three factors — race, sex and disability — were taken together, the numbers increased dramatically.

฀Every time we suspend a student, we risk harming their sense of self-worth, their sense of belonging in school, and ultimately their lifelong well-being,฀ said study co-author Karishma Furtado doctoral candidate at the Brown School, and research and data catalyst at Forward Through Ferguson. “Our students pay a horrible price because of our broken system of school discipline, and ultimately so do we all.”

The report, “Falling Through the Cracks: Disparities in Out of School Suspension in St. Louis at the Intersection of Race, Disability, and Gender,” was published online August 29 via the Forward Through Ferguson website.

Using publicly available data from the 2015-16 school year, Furtado and Alexis Duncan, associate professor at the Brown School – along

with co-authors Jennifer Kocher, parent advocate, and Pranav Nandan, Brown School master of public health candidate – investigated how race, sex and disability came together to affect risk of OSS for kindergartners through 12th graders in the St. Louis region.

They focused on the 30 public school districts located primarily in the City of St. Louis, St. Louis County and St. Charles County to align with previous work by the Keep Kids in Class Coalition.

The findings showed that while white girls with a disability were only 1.4 times as likely to receive an OSS than the least at-risk students (white girls with no disabilities), white boys without a disability were 2.7 times more likely to receive an OSS.

White boys with a disability were 9.1 times more likely.

Black girls without a disability were 11.0 times more likely. Black girls with a disability were 18.1 times more likely. Black boys without a disability were 18.3 times more likely. The most at-risk students, black boys with disabilities, were 24.6 times more likely than white girls with no disability.

“The magnitude of the combined effect of race, sex and disability on risk of outof-school suspension in the St. Louis region is astronomically high and nearly unheard of in public health,” Furtado said.

“A person could smoke a pack of cigarettes every day for 30 years and face a lower risk of getting lung cancer than the risk of OSS for a black boy with

The most at-risk students, black boys with disabilities, were 24.6 times more likely than white girls with no disability to get out-of-school suspension.

a disability. In some districts, black boys with disabilities are 40, 50, even 60 times more likely to get an OSS than a white girl without a disability.”

While the report used St. Louis-area data, the findings almost certainly apply beyond the region, Duncan said.

“Decades of research show that being male, black and having a disability are wellestablished risk factors for suspension due to systemic barriers like inadequate supports in schools, bias and institutionalized racism,” Duncan said. “Recent national studies have looked at disability status combined with race and found that the risks grow when you examine them intersectionally. We simply extended this to look at sex, in addition to disability and race.”

However, the St. Louis region and Missouri have historically had especially high

racial disparities when it comes to school discipline, she said.

The authors suggest that OSS is not an effective deterrent to perceived bad behavior, particularly when the child’s behavior is only a signal of an underlying need or issue.

“The scientific evidence shows that OSS doesn’t prevent kids from misbehaving in the future, and it is related to all sorts of negative outcomes that we are trying hard to prevent, like dropping out of school and involvement with the criminal justice system,” Duncan said.

“Time off of school may feel more like a reward than a punishment to many kids, so OSS may actually increase the likelihood of future misbehavior. In fact, the majority of kids who are suspended once go on to be suspended again.”

Few investigations of the school discipline gap have

taken into account the many identities that children hold simultaneously, including disability status.

“When children with disabilities are suspended, it is often due to behavior related to their disability,” Duncan said.

“OSS does nothing to help in these cases and has a lot of potential for harm. Students with disabilities don’t get the in-school services that they need and are already excluded from their typically developing peers in many ways — OSS just makes the problem worse.”

The report also discusses evidence-based strategies for closing the discipline gap and calls on parents, teachers and district leaders to redouble their efforts to implement them.

“In addition to restorative practices that take the place of exclusionary measures like OSS, we also know that schools can work to prevent problem

behaviors altogether,” Duncan said.

Effective preventative measures include traumainformed practices, positive behavior interventions and supports, social emotional learning approaches, and better use of Individualized Education Programs to support children with disabilities.

The report suggests that school districts should work to promote restorative alternatives to suspension, reduce disparities and prevent challenging behaviors.

“We also have to seriously look into how we can ensure disparities in the way we discipline students aren’t driven by biases on the part of educators and administrators,” Furtado said.

Download the “Falling Through the Gaps” report at https://tinyurl.com/y3p8flk9.

New hope in Fountain Park

Local developer partners with Theaster Gates in planned Fountain Park Arts Block

By Malena Amusa

For The St. Louis American

Kevin Bryant, a St. Louis native and founder of Kingsway Development, LLC, has set sights on resurrecting the shuttered Euclid Elementary School in Fountain Park into a hub of mixedincome artist lofts and creative space called the Fountain Park Arts Block.

“There’s enough negativity we could say about St. Louis, but it’s better to do something positive,” Bryant, 47, said at Third Degree Glass Factory on August 24.

To advance this mission, Bryant is attempting to enlist Theaster Gates, an internationally renowned potter who uses neighborhoods and social justice as his clay to mold beauty, culture, and community-informed change. Bryant wooed the Chicago-based Gates back to St. Louis

n “Fountain Park’s mix of large, stately brick homes, vacant lots and dilapidated structures are ripe for redefinition and rehabilitation.”

– Kevin Bryant, Kingsway Development

despite the closing of The Pink House, the artfocused development Gates launched in Hyde Park in 2011.

“There is strong programming interest both in St. Louis and outside the city in new artistic spaces and cultural venues,” said Gates, founder of the Rebuild Foundation. “The return

to St. Louis and possible collaboration with the cultural community here is a full-circle moment.”

The Fountain Park Arts Block will consist of a renovation of 32 loft apartments and the construction of 21 new units in a U-shape. It will feature a fully equipped arts center located on the grounds of the Euclid School. The project will also partner with Washington Montessori School across the street to provide students supplementary arts education facilitated by residents of the loft building.

“Fountain Park’s mix of large, stately brick homes, vacant lots and dilapidated structures are ripe for redefinition and rehabilitation,” Bryant said.

“There are several major projects being

Normandy grads benefit from new IT student internship

Gabrielle Brown: ‘They are helping to kick start my career as a black woman’

By Sharifah Sims-Williams Normandy Schools Collaborative

n “We talk about increasing the numbers of people of color and women in IT, and I wanted to put something in place to help bridge that gap.”

– Teri Green, Information Technology director

At Normandy High School’s graduation last spring, the speaker shared with the crowd that the class valedictorian planned to major in computer science. Teri Green was in the audience and had an epiphany. Green, the Information Technology director with the Normandy Schools Collaborative, has been working to increase the number of women and people of color in the IT field. According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, only 7.4 percent of the IT workforce is African American. The numbers are similar for women. After the ceremony, Green approached class valedictorian Gabrielle Brown and told her and her classmates about the idea for an IT intern program for

See NORMANDY, B2

Sheneé McCoy was selected as one of 35 Missouri Regional Teachers of the Year for 2020 by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Committees comprised of education peers and key stakeholders for each Regional Professional Development Center in Missouri selected the 2020 Regional Teachers of the Year. She is a fifth grade at Kratz Elementary School in the Ritenour School District.

Larry D. Sewell was elected vice chairman of the Executive Board of Directors for the AfricanAmerican Credit Union Coalition for a second term. He vice president of Corporate Partnerships and Advocacy for Anheuser-Busch Employees’ Credit Union and its divisions. The coalition advocates on behalf of communities often under-served by majority financial institutions, and promotes the personal and professional growth of members through leadership, internship, and mentorship.

Pastor Earnestine Blakley was recognized as a Pioneer in Education by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. She spent her education career teaching in St. Joseph schools and was named Missouri Teacher of the Year in 1991. In 1994, Blakley began Helping Other People Excel, an outreach ministry that works with the needy and promotes literacy.

Justin Robinson was named the 2018-2019 Gatorade Missouri Boys Track & Field Athlete of the Year. A senior at Hazelwood West High School, he won three individual events and anchored the winning 4x200 relay team at the Missouri Class 5 State Championships. He also volunteers as a mentor for young athletes and maintains a B average. The award recognizes athletic excellence and high standards of academic achievement and character. Makita Hill was promoted to Leadership Program manager for FOCUS St. Louis. She previously served as Program and Events coordinator, a role she held since joining FOCUS in December 2017. FOCUS St. Louis provides experiencebased leadership training, civic issue education and public engagement initiatives with its continuum of six civic leadership programs.

Joshua Pryor was elected MidWestern Regional teen secretary –Jack and Jill of America, Inc. He is an honors student at Chaminade College Preparatory School. Jack and Jill of America, Inc. is a membership organization of mothers with children ages 2 – 19, dedicated to nurturing future African American leaders by strengthening children through leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving and civic duty.

Makita

Larry D. Sewell

Joshua Pryor

Justin Robinson

Shenee McCoy

Earnestine Blakley

Art-based developer Theaster Gates (middle) with Brian Phillips, executive director of Washington University Medical Center (right) and Abdul-Kaba Abdullah, executive director of the Park Central Development (left)

Photo by Malena Amusa

Gabrielle Brown (center, holding laptop) assists Normandy art teacher Theresa Hopkins with her device. Brown and Ariel Piphus (at right) are 2019 Normandy graduates who served as interns in the district’s IT department last summer.

Photo by Sharifah Sims-Williams

Boys & Girls Clubs partners with St. Louis Internship Program

August 31 deadline to apply for Inner City Capital Connections

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis has partnered with the St. Louis Internship Program to help prepare area teens for jobs.

Shanise Johnson, director of the St. Louis Internship Program, said it offers “job readiness training (soft skills), college credit, postsecondary planning, summer paid internships, and personal development activities.”

n “We believe this affiliation will be beneficial to students and employers.”

– Kelvin Westbrook, SLIP board chair

The St. Louis Internship Program (SLIP) works in partnership with businesses and community organizations to develop the regional workforce. According to SLIP, since 1992, 98 percent of 4,000 SLIP interns “have successfully acquired employability skills, graduated high school, and pursued their career goals.”

Kelvin Westbrook, SLIP board chair, said the partnership will help SLIP reach more teens. “We believe this affiliation will be beneficial to students and employers as well as contribute significantly to the betterment of the greater St. Louis community,” Westbrook said.

To be a part of the program, teens need to be a member of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis. For more information, call 314-335-8000 or visit www.bgcstl.org.

Normandy

continued from page B1

Normandy graduates. Some of the graduates had other plans or interests; however, Brown, and classmate Ariel Piphus signed on. “There’s a big push to

increase the numbers of African Americans and women in IT, and it hit me,” Green recalled. “I can help make their dreams come true while bridging a gap in our field.”

As part of the Change Begins Now program, interns (or TechTerns) learn the basics of IT, working with teachers and staff on hardware

specifications, adding hardware to the domain, creating user accounts, and uploading software to the machines.

Piphus, who is planning to attend the University of Missouri-Columbia to study nursing, participated in the program because she has always had an interest in technology.

“I want to learn and always have been tech-savvy,” Piphus said. “I’m the one who fixes the Wi-Fi at home, helping my older family members and keeping them up to date [on technology].”

Brown, who will begin coursework at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, is majoring in computer science. She is appreciative of the opportunity to work with her alma mater, and with Green.

“This is another example of how [Normandy] has supported us and provides us with opportunities like this,” Brown said. “I’ve been a student here since kindergarten and appreciate how they are

Park

continued from page B1 planned for Fountain Park, and the ArtsBlock is one that stands to give our area international attention. We have already began construction on the first three homes around the Fountain Park circle, and we are working with one of the local housing organizations to assist existing homeowners with basic repairs this fall so that they keep pace with development.”

18th Ward Alderman Jesse Todd, who said he has felt like “the last one standing” in Fountain Park, said Bryant’s commitment is giving him new hope.

“He’s very passionate and not just about the money, but about good leadership,” Todd said.

The Arts Block is in its planning phase, but already there is diverse buy-in from people focused on uniting the lingering racial and economic divide in St. Louis. Nearly 30 of them joined Byrant at Third Degree Glass Factory to kickoff support of the project.

Attendees included Todd; Mayor Lyda Krewson; 26th Ward Alderwoman Shameem Clark Hubbard; Brian Phillips, executive director of Washington University

helping to kick start my career, especially as a black woman.” Brown and Piphus are two of four students who graduated from Normandy with their high school diploma and an associate degree in general transfer studies. The students were enrolled in the Gateway to College program, a partnership with Normandy and St. Louis Community College which allows talented students the opportunity to earn an associate degree and high school diploma simultaneously. Green, who is also chief information officer with FantasTechs, a technology consultant, is pleased with the progress of the TechTerns.

Medical Center; Emily Rauh Pulitzer, chair of the Pulitzer Arts Foundation; Lisa Small, principal of Washington Montessori; Pamela Lucas, the interim president of Park Place Housing & Economic Development; Jim Dwyer, president of Central West-End Housing Association; AbdulKaba Abdullah, executive director of the Park Central Development; Kelly Annis, Urban Land Institute St. Louis District coordinator; architect Chip Crawford of Clayco; Lisa Potts, project director of the Community Mental Health Fund; Tammie Holland; and Derrick Hibbler, president of the Kingsway Merchant Association.

“What’s the opposite of divide? To unite,” said Nick Dunne, the communications director of Third Degree Glass Factory.

“Whereas a bridge would indicate something superficial which connects the two ends, we could just as easily unite Delmar by continuing to do public engagement and community-informed building. We have to address the needs and wants of the community and act upon those.”

Toward that goal, developer Gates wields a proven method to community-informed building at the intersection of arts.

In Chicago, Gates’ art-

According to the St. Louis Internship Program (SLIP), since 1992, 98 percent of 4,000 SLIP interns “have successfully acquired employability skills, graduated high school, and pursued their career goals.”

Long-term plans include extending the summer internships to a year-round program.

“I’m a solution-oriented person which is why I named the program ‘The Change Begins Now,’” Green said. “We talk about increasing the numbers of people of color and women in IT, and I wanted to put something in place to help bridge that gap. But more importantly, when our students graduate from college, they have the degree and relevant experience to be successful in whatever field they eventually decide to pursue.”

infused development in the South Side has gained global attention. Along Dorchester Avenue, Gates led the transformation of deteriorating, abandoned buildings into breathtaking cultural assets. His Archive House and Black Cinema House are now frequented by world travelers and residents alike. The key to his approach is engaging neighbors as investors.

Talking to South Side drug dealers, for example, Gates, 45, said. “If you’re going to be on the corner anyway, can you put on a ‘security’ shirt and help me out in the process? And while you have it on, don’t sell weed.”

In addition to working closely with all stakeholders, Gates surrounds himself with black women, young and older, to liaison with the community in a way that he cannot. They offer that “maternal touch” in black neighborhoods, Gates said.

“While it is still too early to tell how successful we are going to be at pulling together everything we need to move this project forward,” Bryant said, “I am energized with the overwhelming support that I am seeing thus far.”

To learn more about Byrant, this project and the Kingsway Merchant District of the 18th Ward, visit https://www. kingswaydevelopment.net/.

n “I’m going to show people that, look, Pittsburgh had something special and they let it go.”

— New York Jets running back Le’Veon Bell

Sports

Impressive win for Cardinal Ritter

Cardinal Ritter College Prep opened the season with a huge statement win as it ventured to the Chicago area and defeated Nazareth 32-21. It was arguably the biggest victory in the history of the Lions’ football program.

Senior quarterback Mekhi Hagens enjoyed a tremendous performance as he completed 23 of 30 passed for 335 yards with four touchdowns and no interceptions. Hagens connected with sophomore sensation Luther Burden III on three of those touchdown passes. Marvin Burks provided the Lions’ other touchdown on a 68-yard run in the first quarter.

Cardinal Ritter’s defense was just as impressive as it forced four turnovers, all coming on interceptions of Nazareth’s standout quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who has already committed to Michigan.

The Lions will face Lutheran North on Saturday evening in a battle of Class 2 powerhouse teams at the Gateway Scholars Classic at East St. Louis.

Big Debut at CBC

Sophomore Ayden Robinson-Wayne of CBC has some huge shoes to fill as he became the Cadets’ new quarterback after the brilliant career of Blaine Gabbert, who is now the starting quarterback at Miami of Ohio.

The quarterback position at CBC appears to be in good hands as the 5’10” Robinson-Wayne enjoyed a tremendous debut performance in leading the Cadets to a 65-28 victory at O’Fallon (Illinois).

An excellent dual-threat quarterback, Robinson-Wayne completed 13 of 17 passes for 248 yards and three touchdowns while rushing for 174 yards and another score. Junior receiver Chevalier Brenson caught six passes for 105 yards and two touchdowns for the Cadets.

Coming off unprecedented year for postseason success Andy Ruiz Jr. too

Ezekiel Elliott raised eyebrows when he decided not to return to the Dallas Cowboys without a new contract. There was little doubt that the star running back’s on-the-field talent warranted being one of the top players at his position. However, his penchant for problematic behavior off-the-field led many to wonder whether the timing was right for “Zeke” to pull up to the AT&T Stadium in the Brinks truck. This summer, Elliott made headlines after he was handcuffed and questioned by police for pushing a man down in Las Vegas. Elliott was not arrested as the man declined to press charges. However, it was the latest in a series of poor decisions by the John Burroughs School graduate. Elliott has previously faced accusations of domestic abuse (for which he was suspended six games in 2017), breaking a man’s nose at a nightclub and pulling down a woman’s shirt

at a St. Patrick’s Day parade. It must be noted that Elliott has never been arrested nor charged with a crime in relation to any of the incidents. It is easy to see why the repeated occurrences, accusations and headlines would give pause to Cowboys’ owner Jerry Jones on writing a ginormous check to the habitual line-stepper. However, that’s exactly what he did. According to Yahoo Sports, Elliott and the Cowboys agreed to a “whopping six-year, $90 million contract extension that will make Elliott the highest-paid running back in the history of the NFL.” Should Elliott play out the entire contract, he’ll earn nearly $103M over eight seasons. Unlike the NBA, NFL contracts are typically not fully guaranteed. So the guaranteed amount is always what matters most. In Elliott’s case, the $50M guarantee eclipses the $45M mark set by St. Louis Los Angeles Rams

Earl Austin Jr.

Sistrunk

McCluer running back Cameron Cole (10) takes a hit from a Jennings defender during their home game Fri., Aug. 30, 2019. The Comets of McCluer went on to defeat the Warriors of Jennings 8-0 in a rain-shortened game.

running back in the NFL. Elliott’s $50M

Photo by Wiley Price

SportS EyE

With Alvin A. Reid

Kelly Bryant’s brilliance in Mizzou debut run over by miscues, shoddy defense

During the flight home from a frustrating 37-31 loss to unheralded Wyoming on Saturday night, Missouri quarterback Kelly Bryant had to be thinking “every other team I’ve played for would have won that game.” That includes Clemson, high school and youth football.

Welcome to Tiger Land, Kelly.

Bryant threw for a careerhigh 423 yards and two touchdowns with an interception. He added 20 yards rushing. That calculates to a 148.2 quarterback rating. Heisman Trophy here he comes.

He showed his athleticism on Mizzou’s first drive by avoiding a sack, scrambling and hitting Jonathan Nance with a 3-yard touchdown pass. Bryant’s first appearance ended with a 12-play, 65-yard drive for a TD.

said.

“I’m just focused on how we can get better and win next week.”

Granted, his second quarter fumble was returned 30 yards for a touchdown to cut Mizzou’s lead to 14-10. He also threw an unwise wobbler that was intercepted in Wyoming’s end zone to spoil another solid drive.

“I shouldn’t have done it,” Bryant said.

The following drive, Bryant again showed his moxie by connecting on a pair of key third down passes, to Johnathon Johnson for 13 yards and Daniel Parker for 10 yards, respectively. The drive saw Bryant pass for 69 yards and it ended with Larry Roundtree crashing in from the 2-yard line for a touchdown – 14-0 Missouri. SEC Championship game, here they come.

With a Top 25 ranking assured with a victory, Missouri then went AWOL.

The Tigers’ defense got run over the rest of the half and Wyoming surged to a 24-14 lead.

After the game, Bryant almost seemed to take all the blame.

“(I have to) look myself in the mirror and make sure I did everything I can do,” Bryant

However, it wasn’t his fault that Roundtree fumbled away an almost sure touchdown with less than a minute in the second quarter. It was returned deep into Missouri territory before a hustling Bryant caught up with the defender.

Technically, the half was over but Bryant was penalized for a horse-collar tackle. The untimed down was used for a Wyoming field goal that stretched the lead to 27-17.

In my opinion, Bryant’s tackle didn’t cost the Tigers three points. It saved them four points because without his determination and hustle, Wyoming has its second defensive touchdown of the game.

“I was the only one that was close, so I just tried to stop him from scoring a touchdown,” he said.

It also wasn’t his fault Missouri’s defense turned into a sieve when it came to stopping Wyoming’s running game.

Wyoming had two players rush for more than 100 yards and 297 yards total rushing. The Tigers were a 16.5-point favorite at game time, and previews of the game gave the Cowboys little hope against Missouri’s defense.

Bryant could have had an even more spectacular debut if his receivers didn’t drop several passes.

“We just kept shooting ourselves in the foot on both sides of the ball, stalling,” Bryant said.

“Got the red zone and we just didn’t put it in.”

West Virginia comes to Columbia for an 11 a.m. Saturday kickoff. The Mountaineers barely held off outmanned James Madison 20-13 in a game that was tied 10-10 after three quarters.

Bryant looks like the real deal. But he now realizes that crazy games can lead to bitter defeats for Missouri’s football program. He truly is a Tiger now.

SEC Least

Even with the upset loss at Wyoming, Mizzou could still challenge for the SEC East title.

Georgia blasted Vanderbilt –a team known for stout defense – 30-6. But the rest of the division looked awful over the past two weeks.

Florida was a turnover machine and narrowly escaped rebuilding Miami 24-20 on August 24.

In the shocker of the early season, Georgia State beat 25-point favorite Tennessee 38-30 on the road, leading Panthers coach Shawn Elliott to say, “we pushed them around.”

South Carolina lost to the North Carolina Tar Heels 24-20 in Charlotte. Mack Brown returned to lead a North Carolina team that won two games last year, brought a new staff with him and started a true freshman at quarterback –and still beat the Gamecocks. He also danced with his players in the locker room after the victory.

Kentucky managed to beat Toledo 38-24, but its rock-solid defense from 2018 has certainly changed. The Wildcats surrendered 246 passing yards and 176 rushing yards. This leaves them ranked 104th in the nation in yards per game defensively.

Selling out, selling shirts

I wonder if Colin Kaepernick was invited to the free concert in Grant Park before Thursday’s NFL opener between the Green Bay Packers and host Chicago Bears.

Meghan Trainor, Meek Mill, Rapsody, and DJ Pharris have been lined up by the NFL and Jay-Z’s Roc Nation to perform and, according to a release, “proceeds from the concert will be donated to social justice organizations.”

Trainor, Mill, and Rapsody have been named the first “Inspire Change Advocates” and Inspire Change apparel will be available for purchase later this year. Here are some Twitter

responses to this travesty:

“Those of us who criticized the Jay-Z and NFL partnership predicted this. Honestly, this is disgraceful. And if you think profits won’t go in the pockets of Jay Z and the NFL you’re a fool. How do you with a straight face ban Kaepernick then make money off of him?”

Mike Freeman, former NFL player and Bleacher Report writer.

“The NFL is now profiting off of what Colin Kaepernick started while simultaneously blackballing him,” Steven Ruiz, NFL writer at For The Win and USA TODAY contributor.

“And now Jay Z selling social justice t-shirts? I’m exhausted,” actor Jeremy Bearimy.

“It’s wild that Jay Z said it’s time for action and then one of the actions is to sell apparel to fund programs when Kaepernick was already funding programs & orgs out of his own pockets,” Ryan Herring, The Ghetto Monk founder and editor-in-chief.

Concert goers should be ashamed to support this sham –or they should kneel the entire concert.

The Reid Roundup

Something isn’t right as the Chicago Cubs and the St. Louis Cardinals will clinch the National League Central before the teams meet the final week of the season at Busch Stadium … Cardinals coach Willie McGee should be on somebody’s possible managerial list when the offseason arrives. San Francisco Giants? ... When trailing 27-17 at half-

time to underdog Wyoming, Mizzou coach Barry Odom said, “I don’t know that anyone hit the panic button at halftime. Very stern wake-up call.” Barry, your team wasn’t “woke.” … Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott agreed to a six-year $90 million contract extension late Tuesday and was expected to practice Wednesday … Twenty players will be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in conjunction with the NFL celebrating its 100th anniversary. This should mean former St. Louis Rams receiver Isaac Bruce finally receives his gold jacket … Pittsburgh visits Super Bowl champion New England on Sunday night. By the evening’s close, Ben Roethlisberger will regret helping chase Antonio Bryant out of town and Steelers coach Mike Tomlin will be on the hot seat … Hurricane Dorian will leave behind heat and sticky humidity when the Kansas City Chiefs visit Jacksonville on Sunday. Super Bowl champion head coach and NBC commentator Tony Dungy says it will give the Jaguars an advantage … Kansas is 1-0 and Missouri is 0-1. I’m sorry Tigers fans, I couldn’t resist.

Alvin A. Reid was honored as the 2017 “Best Sports Columnist – Weeklies” in the Missouri Press Association’s Better Newspaper Contest and is a New York Times contributor. He is a panelist on the Nine Network program, Donnybrook, a weekly contributor to “The Charlie Tuna Show” on KFNS and appears monthly on “The Dave Glover Show” on 97.1 Talk.” Find him on Twitter at #aareid1.

Alvin A. Reid

Missouri quarterback Kelly Bryant threw for a career-high 423 yards and two touchdowns in a frustrating loss to unheralded Wyoming on Saturday night.

from The eAST Side

With Maurice Scott Jr.

ESL Flyers, Trinity go at it this weekend

If last Saturday night’s football display by East St. Louis against Illinois Class 7A No.

2 Batavia is any indication of what’s in store for football fans against Trinity Catholic this weekend, the new artificial turf at Clyde C. Jordan Memorial Stadium just might need repairs after the game.

Darren Sunkett’s offense burned the Bulldogs for 571 yards of total offense in taking a 31-17 victory. In addition, the defense held Batavia to 121 yards of total offense in the first half and cruised to a victory in a game that wasn’t as close as the score indicated.

The Flyers had three scores called back due to officials – I meant penalties – to keep the game respectable. But week number two is here, and Trinity Catholic comes to the “House of Pain.” Kickoff is slated for 7:30 p.m. It will be the fourth and final game of the day in the Fourth Annual Gateway Scholars Football Classic.

The opening game will pit former NFL first round draft choice John Clay’s Cahokia Comanches against the

Clutch

Continued from B3

According to ESPN, he is just the third running back since the NFL/AFL merger to lead the league in rushing twice during his first three seasons. Had he not faced suspension, Elliott was on pace to lead the league in 2017 as well. In layman’s terms: Elliott’s got the juice. Since he’s such a stud in the backfield, Elliott gets treated like a workhouse. He eclipsed 300 carries in 2016 (322) and 2018 (304). Many running backs have seen drastic decreases in production and/ or significant injuries following 300-carry seasons. Adrian Peterson DeMarco Murray LeSean McCoy, Arian Foster and Doug Martin are just a few of the backs who saw their production fall off a cliff following seasons of 300+ carries. According to the NFLPA, the average career for an NFL running back is less than two and a half years. Obviously, Elliott is an above average player and has already eclipsed that number. However, running back is still a position where players are considered old by the age of 30. At just 24-years-old, Elliott should have several years remaining as a productive running back. He probably hasn’t yet reached his prime. However, with the amount of carries he sees in the Cowboys backfield, it was important that he capture the bag as soon as possible.

All it takes is a glance over to the NBA at DeMarcus Cousins to see how a serious injury (or a series of them in Boogie’s case) can not only cripple the player, but his earn-

Chaminade Red Devils. Cahokia pitched a shutout against Collinsville last week 26-0, while Chaminade thumped Belleville East 50-6 as Amar Johnson rushed for 210 yards on 18-carries. Quarterback Brady Cook passed for 224 yards and two touchdowns.

Game No. 2 will feature Chicago Public League power Chicago Phillips (1-0) against the Dragons of St. Mary’s (1-0). St. Mary’s defeated Westminster last week 26-15 as big time quarterback Cam’Ron McCoy passed for 262 yards and three touchdowns. The Dragons feature one of the area’s top sophomores in Kevin Coleman, who is a big-play performer.

Game No. 3 will probably be one of the biggest matchups in the area this season as Lutheran North will play Cardinal Ritter with bragging rights on the line and a upper hand in district ramifications latter in the season.

Lutheran North beat Trinity Catholic 25-6 as running back Ali Wells rushed for 158

yards on 11 carries and scored two touchdowns on runs of 66 and 67 yards. The Crusaders’ defense also limited Trinity to 207 yards of total offense and had three interceptions. They also blocked two punts and a field goal on special teams.

Meanwhile, Cardinal Ritter had one of the most impressive wins in the history of the school last Saturday as the Lions went North and beat one of the Cadillac teams in the state of Illinois in Nazareth Academy.

The feature game of the day will feature Trinity Catholic against the Flyers. It’s a rematch of last year’s triple overtime thriller when the Flyers defeated Trinity 32-26.

Scott Jr.

Nazareth is the defending Illinois class 7-A state champions, and Cardinal Ritter’s offense and defense put on a show in the Chicago suburbs.

The Lions defense intercepted Nazareth highly touted quarterback J. J. Mc Carthy four times. The University of Michigan recruit was outplayed by Ritter’s sensational quarterback Mekhi Hagens, who was 23 of 33 for 335 yards and four touchdowns.

East St. Louis has at least nine Division 1 prospects on this year’s roster, led by defensive-back/wide receiver Antonio Johnson (undecided), who is the top-rated senior in the state of Illinois is worth the price of admission.

Also, Flyers running back DeMonta Witherspoon had 238 yards rushing and a touchdown against Batavia, and dual threat quarterback Tyler Macon put on a show as well, throwing for 277 yards and three touchdowns.

Lawaun Powell Jr., who narrowed his college choices to Illinois, Purdue and Nebraska – was his amazing self, as well. However, junior wide-receiver Cameron Lovett had five receptions for 89 yards and two touchdowns. He could have easily had four touchdowns

including a 90-yard pitch and catch for a score from Macon which was called back. In addition, junior wide-out Keontez Lewis had five catches for 90 yards against Batavia.

The Flyers’ offensive line was outstanding last Saturday night, led by Tennessee recruit Javontez Spraggins, Tyres Williams and Brian Bonnett. On defense the Flyers were stellar as well.

Senior Kevon Billingsley had seven tackles and safety Jamariante Burgess had 10 tackles and a huge interception in his first varsity start.

Trinity Catholic lost to Lutheran North last week. In addition, they lost one of the best players in the country in Mookie Cooper who withdrew from Trinity and reports have said that he enrolled at Pattonville. Cooper is an Ohio State recruit.

Tickets are $10 for the entire day for the Gateway Scholars Football Classic.

Last season 10,000 fans attended the family friendly Classic.

ing potential as well. Nine-to-fivers often scoff at gargantuan deals signed by athletes but the reality is that the money is there to be made. Jones and his front office cronies will make money hand over fist due to TV contracts, naming rights, sponsorships, tickets, concessions, etc. So we should all be excited when the players, the talent that drives the league, get a nice chunk of change for their services.

Now that Zeke has gotten paid, the running back’s summertime stay in Cabo San Lucas (Mexico) is finally over. He returned to practice on Wednesday, trading in Mai Tais, sandy beaches and clear, blue ocean views for Gatorade and minute holes between massive defensive tackles.

Running back is a tough position. There is little doubt that Elliott will once again take

a pounding as he attempts to carry the Cowboys into the playoffs. Fortunately, he’ll now have a fat stack of cash to pad every fall.

Ruiz holdout also successful

Speaking of successful holdouts, the rematch between unified heavyweight boxing champion Andy Ruiz Jr. and fallen champion Anthony Joshua is finally finalized. Though there was a rematchclause in the original fight contract, Ruiz refused to sign off on the rematch until a few more Benjamins were added to his purse.

The lack of Ruiz’s signature caused a bit of embarrassment for Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn. Hearn had announced that the fight would take place in Saudi Arabia on Dec. 7 to

top games

much fanfare before Ruiz’s proverbial “Nah” sent him into a panic.

According to The Athletic, Ruiz was set to earn approximately $8M, per the terms of the rematch clause. Ruiz threatened not to show up unless the fight was held in the United States or Mexico. At the end of the day, those demands were negotiating ploy to level up his pay grade. The holdout helped him secure a guarantee of approximately $10M. Now that the contracts have been signed and the ink is dry, both fighters will enter the ring in December with something to prove. For Ruiz, he’ll have an opportunity to prove that his seventh-round KO of Joshua in the first fight was not a freak occurrence. Ruiz (33-1-0, 22 KO) entered the first fight as a huge underdog and overcame a

third-round knockdown to drop Joshua four times en route to a shocking upset victory. Joshua (22-1-0, 21 KO) and his team have proclaimed that the stunning defeat was a fluke and the result of a “lucky

Scott’s Notes

• I’ve been watching the coaches for University City Youth Football. They have an excellent program, but I see some shady stuff going on with a particular coach and that’s not cool.

• Belleville Althoff got shellacked by IC Catholic 52-7 last week. And I guess the money is starting to dry up by some Althoff Boosters.

• One of the bright spots for the Crusaders is senior defensive back Anneus Riggs. Riggs is being recruited by Eastern Illinois, Culver Stockton, Marian University in Indianapolis, Milliken University, among others.

• I’m going to take it easy this year on my North County Trinity Catholic fans. Trinity REALLY got my respect last year. So since Mookie is not playing for Trinity this year, I’m going to be nice.

E. St. Louis 55, Trinity 13.

punch.” Now Joshua will have the chance to prove that he’s a superior fighter and that his chin can withstand the hands of the portly-but-powerful and speedy Mexican-American fighter.

Continued from B3 passing game was on full display on Saturday as they defeated Jefferson City 61-35 in Mid-Missouri. Junior quarterback Kannon (great name for a quarterback) Nesslage passes for 437 yards and an incredible nine touchdowns for the Pioneers. Nesslage had several talented players to throw to as junior Jaylen Phipps had five receptions for 160 yards and three touchdowns, junior William Lee had four receptions for 101 yards and two touchdowns, while junior Jackson Fortner caught five passes for 99 yards and two touchdowns.

The Fort Zumwalt North Panthers will be a factor is Class 5 again this season behind its senior dynamic duo of Izaiah Hartrup and Cairo Payne. Both came up with big performances in North’s victory at Francis Howell last Friday night. Hartrup, a Southern Illinois recruit, rushed for 101 yards and caught two passes for 76 yards and scored an offensive touchdown. On defense, he had two interceptions and returned one 50 yards for a touchdown. Payne rushed for 145 yards and scored on an electrifying 58 yard touchdown run to open the scoring.

Kirkwood Air Show

The Kirkwood Pioneers’ Prep

On Tap This Weekend

The Gateway Scholars Classic at East St. Louis on Saturday will highlight this weekend’s football action. The four games include: Chaminade vs. Cahokia at 11 a.m., St. Mary’s vs. Chicago Phillips at 2 p.m., Cardinal Ritter vs. Lutheran N. at 5 p.m. and East St. Louis vs. Trinity at 8 p.m.

The ST. LouiS AmericAn PreP AThLeTe of The Week

Porter SLUH – Football

The senior running back enjoyed a big opening night in leading the Jr. Billikens to an exciting victory over Battle High in Columbia. The 5’11,” 196-pound Porter rushed for 135 yards and scored five touchdowns to lead SLUH to a 52-47 victory. He is already halfway to his season total of touchdowns scored last season.

As a junior, Porter rushed for 948 yards and 10 touchdowns as one of the bright spots in a 1-9 season for SLUH. He averaged more than five yards a carry. After receiving several scholarship offers from collegiate programs, Porter committed to Missouri State University in Springfield.

Dynamic Duo at Fort Zumwalt North

Other

CBC (1-0) at Edwardsville (1-0), Friday, 7 p.m.

Ladue (1-0) at SLUH (1-0), Friday, 7 p.m.

Andy Ruiz Jr. celebrates his shocking upset of Anthony Joshua on June 1, 2019. Ruiz and Joshua will face off again in a rematch on Dec. 7 in Saudi Arabia.

David Steward of Lion Forge and David Steward of World Wide Technology, investors in Worldwide Technology Raceway, greet one of the race car drivers during the prerace ceremonies for the Bommarito 500 at the raceway in Madison, Ill. on August 24.

St. Louis Black Restaurant Week returns September 3-8

St. Louis Black Restaurant Week returns for its second year September 3-8 featuring TKO, Prime 55, Seafood by Crushed Velvet, The River Lillie, Just Chicken (both locations), Burger 809, and JC Supper Club. The event, organized by Frank R. Williamson, is designed to promote economic diversity while providing minority-owned restaurants with social media and mainstream marketing opportunities with a goal promoting St. Louis food tourism and multicultural engagement.

“This is another way to show how proud we are of our city and all it has to offer while truly making a difference for these businesses,” Williamson said. For more information, visit www.stlbrw.com.

Financial Focus

By Roger Macon, AAMS

Photo credit: Worldwide Technology Raceway

Living It

Hip-hop driven 5K returns to Ville on Saturday

‘We wanted to promote healthy lifestyles and healthy communities’

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

The inaugural Northside Trap Run 5K and Community Festival was a sight to see last year. There were people from all sorts of backgrounds running, jogging and walking the race route, which stretched across a few North St. Louis neighborhoods, primarily The Ville.

By 9:30 a.m., some had already powered past the finish line and were stopping to visit vendors, fellowship with other runners or let their bodies recover with a trap yoga session facilitated by Brittany Hill just beyond the finish line.

Residents peeked out to see what was happening – some so curious that they followed racers towards the vendor booths and DJ stations to get a closer look.

“We wanted to build a neighborhood staple that people look forward to every year in order to build around that,” said Aaron Williams, codirector of Trap Run.

At 8 a.m. on Saturday, September 7, Trap Run will return – even bigger than it started. Last year, there were six DJs blasting hip-hop at several spots from the starting point at 4057 Evans Avenue to the finish line. This year, there will be 12. They’ve also added a brunch catered by

Gourmet Soul and teamed up with ConsciousFest – a full line up of musical performances and poetry that celebrate black culture. Once Trap Run programming is complete – and time is allotted for a set up change – ConsciousFest will take place in the same location.

“When I’m out, I tell people you are going to have an entire day of black excellence,” said Trap Run co-director Kameel Stanley. “Trap Run in the morning and then ConsciousFest in the afternoon.”

The 5K is a brainchild of Stanley and Williams

Beauty in her baldness

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

more insecure

bring awareness to alopecia than to put it on the runway,” McCleary said.

“Beyonce never woke up like this. We wake up and one of our eyebrows may be gone. We because I felt like I had no identity with my hair gone.” Not

– and facilitated through The Young Friends of The Ville community organization.

“We thought, ‘if they can do a rock and roll marathon, then maybe we could do a hip-hop one.’ It’s all black culture. It’s for us and it’s in our neighborhood to celebrate us.”

They noticed that in black communities, runs and walks were mostly tied to something else. A march against gun violence, or a Sickle Cell Walk or prostate cancer walk.

“We can do 5ks too,” Williams said. “We wanted to promote healthy lifestyles and healthy communities. We wanted to show that we can go run in our own community, because most runs are everywhere else.”

They reached out to African-American exercise affinity groups, including We Run The Lou, Black Girls Run, BKM Fitness and Girl Trek St. Louis.

“They were super excited about the idea,” Stanley said. “We channeled their energy.” They were hit with more flak than expected because of the event’s name – even potential sponsors who offered support, but only if they were willing to call it something else.

“I feel like we are only getting this reaction because we are talking about a Northside community,” Williams said. “If we had the Trap Run in Tower Grove Park, I don’t think anyone would question it – And that to me is a problem. It’s like we don’t want to acknowledge the reality of our communities.” Trap music refers to a subgenre in hip-hop that chronicles hood life, but Williams said that millennials don’t view the term as negative.

“It’s like we can’t see the beauty of what’s

‘From the page to the stage’

Best-selling author, life coach and ‘Fix My Life’ host Iyanla Vanzant, presenting her ‘Acts of Faith: Remix” Tour Thursday, August 22 at The Touhill Performing Arts Center.

Iyanla Vanzant stops in STL for ‘Acts of Faith’ 25th anniversary

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

As a bestselling author, life coach and spiritualist Iyanla Vanzant is a household name for black women. She proved herself to be on August 22 when she packed out the Touhill Performing Arts Center to celebrate the 25th anniversary of her book, “Acts of Faith.” “We’ve been together a long time,” Vanzant told the followers who filled the Touhill for the “Acts of Faith: Remix Tour.” “Some people ought to stay married as long as we’ve been together.” She wrote three books before “Acts of Faith.” But the daily devotional that features wise words from thought leaders, spiritual gurus, musicians and historical figures became an urban culture sensation. Each page starts with a quote that Vanzant expounds upon to reveal a powerful lesson in faith. She grabbed the attention of Oprah Winfrey, who often featured Vanzant on her talk show

See Iyanla, C4

The first Trap Run had 315 registered runners, more than 100 volunteers and 30 vendors. The estimated total participant headcount was more than 600.

Top: Pierre McCleary (center) is shown love from family members Tiff, Shelby and Brittany during the 2017 Hats Off Alopecia Fash ion Show at The Polish Heritage Center.

Bottom: Two of the lovely model’s from the 2017 edition of Pierre McCleary’s Hats Off Alopecia Fashion Show at The Polish Heritage Center.

Photo by V. Lang

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

Fri., Sept. 6, 7 p.m., Liberty Bank Alton Amphitheater presents Nelly. 1 Riverfront Dr., Alton, IL. 62002. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Sun., Sept. 8, 5 p.m., Ear Hustle: A Conversation & Performance with Sy Smith and Theresa Payne Kranzberg Arts Center, 501 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Sun., Sept. 8, 6:30 p.m., Sheldon Concert Hall presents The Temptations 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com.

Tues., Sept. 10, 6:30 p.m., Fox Theatre presents Lenny Kravitz. 527 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com.

Fri., Sept. 13, 6:30 p.m., An Evening at the Opera with Morris Robinson. A benefit concert for the Biome School and the importance of music and art education. The Ethical Society, 9001 Clayton Rd., 63117. For more information, visit www.thebiomeschool. org.

Fri., Sept. 13, 7 p.m., The Ready Room presents Pink Sweat$: Pink Beginnings Tour Part 2. 4195 Manchester Ave., 63110. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Fri., Sept. 27, 8 p.m., Fox Theatre presents Boyz II Men. 527 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www.fabulousfox.com.

Sun., Sept. 29, 6 p.m., The Pageant presents Chrisette Michele: The Self Love Tour. 6161 Delmar Blvd., 63112. For more information, visit www.ticketmaster.com.

local gigs

Tues., Sept. 10, 6 p.m., Missouri History Museum presents Twilight Tuesdays with Love Jones the Band. 5700 Lindell Blvd., 63112. For more information, visit www. mohistory.org.

Thur., Sept. 12, 7 p.m., St. Louis Symphony Orchestra Free Forest Park Concert. Pack a picnic, enjoy a concert and fireworks display. Art Hill, Forest Park, Fine Arts Dr., 63110. For more information, visit www.slso.org.

special events

Fri., Sept. 6, 6 p.m., 6th Annual Hooray For Howl E Woof 2019 Runway Show. Silent and live auctions, dinner and open bar, and a spectacular runway show featuring local celebrities and assistance dogs. Sheraton Westport Chalet Hotel, 191 W Port Plaza, 63146. For more information, www.champdogs.org.

Fri., Sept. 6, 8 p.m., Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Omicron Theta Omega Chapter HBCU House Party. Machinists Hall, 12365 St. Charles Rock Rd., 63044. For more information, call (314) 283-8213.

Sat., Sept. 7, 10 a.m., Spirit of St. Louis Air Show & STEM Expo. Aerial demonstrations, military and civilian aircraft, and an interactive expo for children of all ages. Spirit of St. Louis Airport, 18260 Edison Ave., 63005. For more information, visit www.spirit-airshow.com.

Sat., Sept. 7, 11 a.m., 4th Annual ConsciousFest. A celebration of community, culture, vendors, performances, and more. 4057 Evans Ave., 63113. For more information, visit www.facebook.com.

The Guide

Kenya Vaughn recommends

Sat., Sept. 7, 11:30 a.m., Healing and Mending Ministry invites you to the 5th Annual Dine With The King Hat & Tea Party. Proceeds benefit victims of domestic violence. Hilton Garden Inn, 4450 Evans Pl., 63134. For more information, visit www. healmending.org.

Sat., Sept. 7, 1:30 p.m., Girls Circle YD, Inc. invites you to an All Girls Resource Fair. Women entrepreneurs are invited to be the examples girl entrepreneurs need to see. Center of Clayton, 50 Gay Ave., 63105. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Sat., Sept. 7, 4 p.m., Alton Jazz &Wine Fest. A celebration of Mile Davis. Alton Amphitheater, 1 Riverfront Dr., Alton, IL. 62002. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com.

Sun., Sept. 8, 1:30 p.m., St. Peter’s Church Annual Community Picnic. inflatable obstacle course, petting zoo, photo booth, and much more. 1425 Stein Rd., 63135. For more information, visit www. stpeterschurch.org.

Through Sept. 8, St. Louis Black Restaurant Week. Participating restaurants

include River Lillie, Burger 809, Prime 55 Restaurant & Lounge, and more. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Sun., Sept. 8, 1:30 p.m., St. Peter’s Church Annual Community Picnic. We will have an inflatable obstacle course, petting zoo, photo booth, and much more. 1425 Stein Rd., 63135. For more information, visit www. stpeterschurch.org.

Sun., Sept. 8, 3 p.m., The 7th Annual Taste in Ferguson. Feat. foods from more than 25 vendors. Proceeds help provide scholarships. The Savoy Banquet Center, 119 South Florissant Rd., 63135. For more information, visit www. thetasteinferguson.com.

Sept. 11 – 15, Alton Expo. Enjoy fair foods, games, rides, live entertainment and more. Alton Amphitheater, 1 Riverfront Dr., Alton, IL. 62002. For more information, For more information, visit www.facebook.com.

Sat., Sept. 14, 10 a.m., Taste of Black St. Louis. A day with food, music, shopping, and learning. Tower Grove Park Southwest Kingshighway Experience, 63110. For more information, visit www.

Sat., Sept. 21, 3 p.m., Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Xi Zeta Chapter Countdown to Centennial. Troy’s Jazz Club, 4519 Olive Blvd., 63130. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Sat., Sept. 21, 4 p.m., 2019 Old Webster Jazz & Blues Festival. 124 W. Lockwood Ave., 63119. For more information, visit www. oldwebsterjazzfest.com.

Sat., Sept. 21, 6 p.m., St. Louis American Foundation 32nd Annual Salute to Excellence in Education Scholarship and Awards Gala, America’s Center. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www. stlamerican.com and click on Salute to Excellence, or call 314-533-8000.

Sat., Sept. 21, 6 p.m., Affinia Healthcare Foundation invites you to the Boldly Inspired 2019 Starburst Gala & Auction. Stifel Theatre, 1400 Market St., 63103. For more information, visit www. affiniahealthcare.org.

eventbrite.com.

Wed., Sept. 18, 10 a.m., JobNewsUSA.com presents the St. Louis Job Fair Doubletree Hotel Westport, 1973 Craigshire Rd., 63146. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com.

Thur., Sept. 19, 5 p.m., YWCA of Metro St. Louis presents the 7th Annual Walk A Mile In Her Shoes. An international men’s march to speak out against rape, sexual assault and gender violence. Missouri Athletic Club, 405 Washington Ave., 63102. For more information, www. ywcastl.org.

Fri., Sept. 20, 9 p.m., Blaze the Stage STL Live. An evening of poetry, comedy, art, music, and more. Special Tymes Event Hall, 5950 Natural Bridge Rd., 63120. For more information, call (314) 656-7558.

Sept. 20 – 21, 47th Annual Great Forest Park Balloon Glow and Race. Central Field, Forest Park, 63112. For more information, visit www. greatforestparkballoonrace. com.

Sept. 20 – 22, Greater St. Louis Hispanic Festival. Soulard Park, 7th St. and Lafayette Ave., 63104. For more information, visit www. hispanicfestivalstl.com.

Sat., Sept. 28, 11 a.m., The Village Resource Fair and Education Summit. Clothing assistance, safety education, finance information, cooking demonstrations, youth mentorship opportunities, and more. O’Fallon Park Rec Complex, 4343 W. Florissant Ave., 63115. For more information, call (314) 4658360.

Saturdays, 8 a.m., The Ferguson Farmers Market Plaza at 501, 501 S. Florissant Rd., 63135. For more information, visit www. facebook.com.

literary

Thur., Sept. 5, 6:30 p.m., St. Louis County Library hosts author Gina Whitlock Fletcher, author of Stumble to Rise: My Life Surviving and Thriving with M.S Grant’s View Branch, 9700 Musick Rd., 63123. For more information, visit www.slcl. org.

Tues., Sept. 10, 7 p.m., Left Bank Books hosts author Minda Harts, author of The Memo: What Women of Color Need to Know to Secure a Seat at the Table. Kranzberg Arts Center, 510 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www.left-bank.com.

Sat., Sept. 21, 10:30 a.m., BookFest St. Louis. Attendees will enjoy author presentations, panel discussions, activities,

Fox Theatre presents Boyz II Men. For more information, see CONCERTS.

and more. McPherson & Euclid, 63108. For more information, visit www. bookfeststl.com.

art

Sept. 6 – 8, Saint Louis Art Fair. Featuring 181 artists from around the world exhibiting their work. 225 S. Meramec Ave., 63105. For more information, visit www. saintlouisartfair.com.

Sat., Sept. 21, 11 a.m., Black in the Abstract: Meditations on Black Artists Working With Abstraction From the 1950s to the Present. Lecture by Valerie Cassel Oliver. St. Louis Art Museum, 1 Fine Arts Dr., 63110. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

comedy

Sept. 6 – 8, Helium Comedy Club presents Karlous Miller 1151 St. Louis Galleria St., 63117.

Thur., Sept. 12, 7 p.m., Focus on the Funny presents the 1Life2Live Comedy Run Feat. Marquise Moore, Jason Nelson, James “JB” Buchanan, and Nicholas Cuvar. Dink’s Bar, 521 S. Vandeventer Ave., 63110. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com.

Sept. 19 – 21, 8th Annual Compass Improv Festival. See local and national performers including local improv troupe, U People. The Improv Shop, 3960 Chouteau Ave., 63110. For more information, visit www. compassimprov.org.

Sept. 19 – 22, Helium Comedy Club presents Deray Davis. 1151 St. Louis Galleria St., 63117.

theatre

Through Sept. 8, TLT Productions presents Karmatic The Play. The

Kenya Vaughn recommends

Marcelle, 3310 Samuel Shepard Dr., 63103. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Sept. 13- Sept. 21, Slaying Dragons Theater Troupe presents A Long Day’s Journey Into Night by Eugene O’Neill, The Chapel, 6328 Alexander Drive, Clayton, MO 63105. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/ SlayingDragons1/ Through Sept. 22, The Black Rep presents Don’t Bother Me, I Can’t Cope. A social commentary on economic and racial injustice is weaved into an song and dance numbers that fuse gospel with jazz, soul and calypso. Edison Theatre, Washington University, 6465 Forsyth Blvd., 63105. For more information, visit www.

theblackrep.org.

lectures and workshops

Thur., Sept. 5, 5:30 p.m., What’s Next? The CityCounty Merger. Three experts on regional governance discuss next steps now that plans for a City/County merger have collapsed. Hillman Hall, Washington University, 1 Brookings Dr., 63130. For more information, visit www. JFedSTL.org/events.

Sat., Sept. 7, 9 a.m., The Alzheimer’s Association presents Aging-Friendly Congregations Workshop. St. Andrew United Methodist Church, 3975 N. Highway 67, 63034. For more information, visit www.

An Evening at the Opera with Morris Robinson. See CONCERTS for details.

communityresourcefinder.org.

Wed., Sept. 11, 6:30 p.m., FAFSA Workshop. FAFSA completion assistance is also available by appointment. The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis, 6825 Clayton Avenue, Suite 100, 63139. For more information, visit https://www. sfstl.org/

Thur., Sept. 12, 11 a.m., Making Your Money Work for You: The Keys to Understanding Your Financial Statements. St. Louis Economic Development Partnership, 6439 Plymouth Ave., 63133. For more information, visit www. missouri.ecenterdirect.com.

Sat., Sept. 14, 8:30 a.m., SistaKeeper Empowerment Center presents the Be A Keeper! Teen Girl Summit 2.0. For girls 7-12th grade to

hear from speakers, participate in interactive session, and more. Washington University, 1 Brookings Dr., 63130. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Sun., Sept. 15, 2 p.m., Mother 2 Mother: Five Years Later. Weeks following the killing of Michael Brown, 5 Black mothers took the stage to discuss their experiences. 5 years later they will discuss how things have changed. Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell Blvd., 63112. For more information, visit www. mohistory.org.

Thur., Sept. 19, 6:30 p.m., The Legacy of the Annie Malone Children’s Home. Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell Blvd., 63112. For more information, visit www. mohistory.org.

Fri., Sept. 20, 8:30 a.m., AGAPE Reentry Program presents the Successful Second Chances Employer Panel. Millennium Student Center, UMSL, 1 University Blvd., 63121. For more information, call (314) 3810401 ext. 100, or (314) 5165748.

health

Sun., Sept. 15, 9 a.m., Families United Let’s Move St. Louis 5K Walk/Run. Our goal is to reduce Type 2 Diabetes, decrease high blood pressure, and obesity prevention. Creve Coeur Park, 13725 Marine Ave., 63146. For more information, visit www.healthyrelationshipstl. com.

Thur., Sept. 19, 9:30 a.m., Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s National Educating America Tour. Student Center, Saint Louis University, 20 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www.alzfdn.org/event.

Thur., Sept. 26, 6 p.m., The Right Time for Medicare for All. CWA Hall, 2258 Grissom Dr., 63146. For more

information, call (314) 2653412 or visit www.facebook. com.

Through Sept. 5, 7 p.m., Christ the King United Church of Christ Fall Revival: Born to Worship. Guest speakers: Rev. Dr. Leslie Callahan and Rev. Dr. Gina Stewart. 11370 Old Halls Ferry Rd., 63033. For more information, visit www.ctk-ucc. org.

Tues., Sept. 10, 7 p.m., FerVent 2.0: An Evening with Priscilla Shirer feat. Worship with Anthony Evans. Crosspoint Church, 5001 Little Rock Rd., 63128. For more information, visit www. ferventtheevent.com.

Sept. 10 – 13, 6:45 p.m., The Lite of Jericho Missionary Baptist Church invites you their Fall Revival: Remembrance, Repentance, Renewal. Guest revivalist, Pastor Clifford Mayes. 5429 Saint Louis Ave., 63120. For more information, call (314) 383-6087.

Sat., Sept. 14, 5 p.m., Surrender2HimLife presents Love & Peace Festival. A family event to encourage Christian talent in the area. January Wabash Park, 501 N. Florissant Rd., 63135. For more information, visit www. facebook.com.

Sun., Sept. 15, 5:30 p.m., Arts & Faith St. Louis Ninth Annual Interfaith Concert: “Songs of Hope.” Featuring musicians from Christian, Jewish, Muslim and Buddhist vocal ensembles. The Sheldon Concert Hall, 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit www. artsfaithstl.org.

Fri., Sept. 27, 8 p.m., Touhill Performing Arts Center presents CeCe Winans in Concert. 1 University Blvd., 63121. For more information, visit www.touhill.org.

Continued from C1

“I didn’t want to embarrass my family. I don’t want people to talk about me.” It took the words of her seven-year-old grandson, who told her she was beautiful with her bald head to ease her into the idea of being her whole self 100 percent of the time. Then a small voice, that she calls the voice of God, confirmed it

– and affirmed her grandson’s words. The voice said, according to McCleary, “How are you going to be a blessing to somebody else, if you cover yourself up?” She says that having the strength to be her authentic self has helped other women –those with alopecia and those without it.

We are gluing. We are pasting. We are wigging. We are doing everything but showing our hair.”

But when she lost the wig, she found herself.

“I gained so much love for myself,” McCleary said. “And that’s what I’m trying to show people who might be going through the same thing. This is me. Without the wig, without the lashes or the makeup.”

I said, ‘I’m going to create my own yeses,’ McCleary said. “In my fashion shows, I want those models who feel like they can’t do it. Those are the people that I want, because those are the people I can reach. My shows have meaning. My show has a purpose. I don’t do it to make money. I do it to make a difference in someone’s life.”

who was made fun of at school because she has alopecia,” McCleary said. “I do it for the little girl who feels like she has to wear hats to school. I do it for the people who don’t believe enough in themselves to take that wig off.

Pierre McCleary presentation of her Hats Off Alopecia Fashion Show will take place on Sunday, September 8 at The Polish Heritage Center, 1413 N. 20th Street. Doors open at 6 p.m. Show starts at 7 p.m. For more information, call (314) 933-4405. Beauty

“I know in our culture, we were taught that our hair was everything – but at the same time, in our culture, we never wear our hair,” McCleary said. “We are in the beauty supply.

Run

Continued from C1

in front of us,” said Williams.

“We only want to look at the bad. We need to embrace our communities in their current form and celebration them.”

The overwhelming response to the first Trap Run supports Williams’ notion. They had 315 registered runners, more than 100 volunteers and 30

vendors – and estimate the total participant headcount at more than 600.

The Chuck Berry Family Foundation has once again signed on as a major sponsor. Last year their 5K raised more than $10K that will be given back to the community through The Young Friends of The Ville. This year they are hoping to raise even more – and pour the funds into a crowdfunded capital campaign to stabilize and eventually restore the building that once housed

sentation highlighted the power of faith.

Continued from C1

to help her viewing audiences “live their best life.” She is currently the host of “Iyanla Fix My Life” on the Oprah Winfrey Network.

“This has been an incredible journey. You see, it was 25 years ago that I started doing this work publicly,” Vanzant to the audience. “It was then that I wrote a little book called ‘Acts of Faith.’ That book took on a life all its own. I want to bring some of the wisdom of ‘Acts of Faith’ from the page to the stage.”

There were only a few passages over the course of her talk that referenced the book, but the entire transparent pre-

“Faith will allow you to take this magnificent gift called life and use it to its maximum capacity,” Vanzant said. “Faith will take you from one dream to another; from one victory to another. It doesn’t matter what anybody has to say. It only matters where you put your faith.”

Her own life story is a testament to the power of faith. Her mother died from breast cancer when Vanzant, then known as Rhonda Harris, was a toddler. Vanzant’s mother was her father’s mistress. She was shifted from household to household until she was forced to become the head of her own when she became a teenage mother.

She would become the mother of three before her 21st

Her runway show will feature models with alopecia and standard models.

“I heard so many no’s, that

famed Ville eatery Sarah Lou’s.

“We’re talking about The Ville: It’s royal in my opinion,” Williams said. “This is the breadbasket of black St. Louis. Most of our history ties back to The Ville.”

Though it’s only the second year, they feel the impact that the run has had on the community.

“The cool thing is all while we were planning the first year and this year, we have run into quite a few black people in our communities who either

birthday. Despite the obstacles and challenges, she was able to work full-time and put herself through law school and become a successful lawyer, only to discover that she hated practicing law.

Vanzant immersed herself in faith-based readings and teachings from around the world as she sought purpose and attempted to start over.

“We get so turned around and turned off by the lessons that we face,” Vanzant said. “These things don’t come to break you. They come to stretch you and grow you. But if you’ve got a closet control freak – and because you can’t control the outcome – you think that these things are happening to you rather than for you.”

Her journey to wholeness through the reading and studying of religions and faith teach-

Sunday’s show will feature 40 models and 15 designers, with bald beauties strutting right along with models with hair.

“I do it for that little girl

began running or have really embraced it or stepped up because of Trap Run, and that’s very heartening.” Stanley said.

One of those people is Ramona Scott a lifelong resident of the Greater Ville. She heard about Trap Run and decided it would make a fitting finale to the goal she set for herself to complete 19 5Ks in 2019 as a New Year’s resolution.

“I’m not a runner, but I said, it’s just three miles,” Scott said.

“There’s plenty of them in St.

ings planted the seeds for “Acts of Faith,” the 19 other books she’s written in over the past 28 years – and the life work that grew out of them. Since the release of “Acts of Faith,” Vanzant has been on a mission to get others to activate their own faith.

“When you have a burning desire to do a thing – know that it is not coming from you. It is coming from God,” Vanzant said. “When you can see it and feel it, when you want it and want to do it – you have to do it, because that’s how you demonstrate your faith.”

Her talk was a lesson in faith, with self-love and trust mixed in.

“Faith is an inner knowing that dares your soul to go beyond what your eyes can see and what your mind can comprehend,” Vanzant said.

I was every one of those persons in my own insecurities – the ones that couldn’t accept that I have alopecia.”

She is grateful that God chose her to be a vessel of transparency and beauty beyond the traditional standards.

“I want them to leave the

Louis, so, go for it.”

That’s exactly what she did. She walked and took cycling to ready herself and is now only one race away from meeting her goal.

“It just shows me when you set your mind to a goal, you can do it,” Scot said. “Put your mind to it, but it out into the universe, prepare and it will come naturally. I truly love my community – so to be able to complete this goal at the Trap Run just confirms my belief in North St. Louis.

She talked about “faith killers,” which included inauthenticity and worry.

“Don’t worry, be happy,” Vanzant said, quoting the title from Bobby McFerrin’s hit song, which served as her “Acts of Faith” devotion for February 13.

“Worry is the vampire that drains life from its force. Worry stagnates the mind, creates an imbalance in the immune system,” Vanzant said, quoting herself. “We worry about the things we cannot control – the past and the future. We worry about the things we do not have, cannot get and have already lost. Worry creates confusion, disorder and helplessness.”

According to Vanzant, worry is a culprit of lost faith – and so are trust issues.

“One of the reasons we lose

show inspired enough to be free, even if it’s just a piece of freedom,” McCleary said. “I want everyone who enters to leave free enough to be themselves – to receive who they are as a whole person, whatever their perfect imperfections are.”

It shows that people really care about the Ville and are willing to put their care into action.”

The 2nd Annual Northside Trap Run 5K and Community Fair will take place at 8 a.m. on Saturday, September 7 at 4057 Evans Avenue. For more information, visit https://www. facebook.com/pg/YFVille/ about/?ref=page_internal or https://www.facebook.com/

faith is because we disrespect faith’s mother. Faith’s mother is trust,” Vanzant said. “It’s not that we don’t trust; it’s just that sometimes we put our trust in the wrong things – and our faith is violated. If you have [the right kind of trust] trust, faith is a natural outcome.” She discussed the caterpillar’s metamorphosis as evidence of the power of trust and having faith in the process.

“It surrenders to the moment and what happens is something comes out – and not what went in – but something totally different and beautiful,” Vanzant said. “That means if you want to change, you have to be willing to crawl out to the ledge and eat [expletive]. It’s your [expletive]. It’s nobody else’s, because there is nobody in there with you.”

Iyanla

Nuptials

Congratulations to Rev. Dr. and Mrs. Gregory L. Stewart who were married on August 3, 2019, St. Louis, MO.

Celebrations

Birthdays

Love-filled 21st Birthday Blessings to our daughter, Dream Dennis on September 1. We are so proud of you. Continue to live your best life! She’s a senior at Mizzou, enjoying her recent internship in South Africa. Love, Mom, Dad & Family

Happy 106th Birthday to Minnie Anderson on September 7! She will celebrate at Grand Manor nursing home, where she is a resident.

Kyle and Daniel McKissick were born on September 11. They are loving, caring and smart. Both were accepted and are now students at the new STEAM high school in Ferguson. The world would be a better place if people loved and respected each other as these boys do. Happy 15th Birthday!

Reunions

Beaumont High Class Of 1969 will celebrate its 50-year reunion Sept 20-22, 2019 at Embassy Suites St. Charles. Come join us as we celebrate these golden years, “Living Life Like It’s Golden.” For more information contact Dennis Hayden 314 276-6188

or beaumontclassof1969@ yahoo.com or send your questions to P.O. Box 155, Florissant, MO 63032.

Beaumont High Class of 1979 is planning its 40-year reunion. All activities are scheduled for the weekend of September 27-29. The location is The Airport Marriot at 10700 Pear Tree Drive, St. Louis 63134. For more information, contact Milton Jackson at 314-2764392 or Yolanda Lockhart at lockhartyo08@gmail.com.

Soldan High Class of 1970 “Reunion Committee” is sponsoring a “Bazaar” Saturday, September 14, 2019 from 7 am-12 noon at The

Heritage House Apts. 2800 Olive Street, St. Louis, Mo 63103 (between Harris Stowe College and Wells Fargo). Plenty of parking in back of building. “Stop on by, surely you will find something you like.” For more information please call (314) 707-9221.

Soldan High Class of 1974 Alumni Association is planning its 45-year reunion. Please get your contact information to dhblackjack@ charter.net or call 314-7493803.

Sumner High Class of 1957 Annual Dinner Buffet, September 21, 2019 at 5pm, Lombardo’s Restaurant,

10488 Natural Bridge Rd. (next to Drury Inn) For more information call Martha Ballentine at 314-456-2051.

Vashon-Hadley Old School Reunion 1960-67, October 19, 2019, 2-6 pm at The Atrium in Christian Hospital. For more details text (only) Brenda Mahr at 314-580-5155 or email at: brendamahr@att.net.

Vashon High Class of 1969 Alumni committee is planning it’s 50-year Reunion: October 18 and 19, 2019, at the Renaissance Hotel, 9801 Natural Bridge Road, Berkeley, MO. Meet and Greet will take place Friday night from 6-10 p.m. Reunion

Banquet is Saturday night from 6-11 p.m. Contact Genies Jordan 314-4486658, Yvonne Clemons 314-620-0551 for additional information or email Liz35206@yahoo.com to register.

Vashon High Class of 1974 is planning for its 45th reunion. We are in the process of rounding up all classmates. To provide or update your contact information, please email ljbady@gmail.com or contact: Joe Verrie Johnson 314-640-5842, Jordan Perry 314-724-4563, or LaVerne James-Bady 314-382-0890.

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

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

Swag Snap of the Week

Two weeks until Salute. Yes, I am hongry (yes, hongry), but I am almost to the point where I can exhale without a real fear of busting clean up out of my glorious and glamourous Salute ensemble like the Incredible Hulk or an overheated canister of Pillsbury Crescent Rolls. What? Beauty is pain. And I plan to show up even the most stylish repeat-offenders of the St. Louis American Foundation’s 32nd Annual Salute to Excellence in Education Scholarship and Awards Center Saturday after next (September 21). But enough about me and this killer gown, bag and shoe combo; let’s talk about how St. Louis premiere evening for black St. Louis elegance is just two weeks (and two days) away. I cannot wait! Aside from Dr. and Mrs. Brown sharing the Lifetime Achievement Award honors – I honestly cannot fully express how much I love them both – the night is shaping up to be absolutely everything. We have fresh talent for the Jazz Cabaret in the form of the Coleman-Hughes Project. And the official after party is going to be ____________(insert new slang for lit) with DJ Sir Thurl on the tables. Yo, I’m telling y’all to get these tickets and get your life! Visit www.stlamerican.com to purchase online. Or all my analog folks can call (314) 533-8000. En Vogue in Memorex. A lot of people might not know this, but I am one of En Vogue’s biggest fans. So much so that I smuggled a “Hold On To Your Love” freakum dress in and out of the house in a bookbag to change into without my folks knowing how fast I actually was. So y’all already know that I was making my way to the River City Casino to catch them live Friday night. Now let me say that they looked absolutely fantastic. They sounded good, and their performance to those tracks was rehearsed to perfection. But there was something missing for me. No shade to the new girl, but I guess Maxine and Dawn took the soul with them when they left the group. It was a cute show, don’t get me wrong. And the last thing on earth I want to do is to be accused of being like those delusional Toni!Tony!Tone fans who still haven’t grasped that Raphael Saddiq has not been a member of that band for 20 whole years. Understand that En Vogue still had the range, but in hindsight, it was too pop for me. I’m guessing that’s what a Vegas-style performance feels like. I liken it to the off-brand oatmeal crème pie vs. Little Debbie. The flavor is pretty much the same, but they are so dry you need a quart of milk to fully wash down. And how y’all gonna come all the way to my city and not sing “Don’t Go.” Terry leads that song, so there is no excuse.

Coco Soul, center stage. A funny thing happened as I booked it out of the River City concert hall, fully focused on catching a few free smells from their steak, jumbo shrimp and crab leg buffet before it shut all the way down. I was walking through the casino and heard a voice I could recognize anywhere. By the time I made it to the club Judy’s, I knew for sure it was my girl Coco Soul. And she was giving me all types of energy that I truly needed but didn’t get from En Vogue. I can’t say I was crazy about the song selection that included Bruno Mars, Lakeside (the band that brought us “Fantastic Voyage”) and all sorts of songs in-between. But her stage presence could not be denied. Girl, Why didn’t you’d be back in town for a show? I’m glad my need for a cheat meal aroma allowed me to catch a part of the show.

A house party hit. Anthony Robinson took the party up a notch with his end of summer set at the architect house. Lord, I don’t ask for much, but can you give me a convertible house that can accommodate a full party and a live band? Amen. After seeing Kalonda Kay and her band rip it in his living room, I will be forever ungrateful for my current habitat. That was so live, that I got over my jealousy and had a good time. Speaking of “good time,” am I the only one that was Saturday years old when I found out that Beyonce had mixed Cameo’s “Candy” in with her “Before I Let Go” cover? Perhaps I was too unbothered to hone in. Happy belated b-day, Bey.

Biko’s nod to MJ. I knew he would do it just right, so I hit up the Ready Room Saturday night for James Biko’s Michael Jackson spin session. Let me call out a man who goes by Mr. Black personally. I knew your fandom was not a game when you rolled up with the red jacket (sleeves zipped off) and the zippers. But you still impressed me with your mastery of the “Smooth Criminal” choreography. “Billie Jean” and “Thriller” is one thing, but to know all the moves to “Annie are you ok” is a level I can only dream to reach.

Night of the living day parties. I knew the folks weren’t going to let me have a lazy Sunday on a holiday weekend. But can I tell y’all how grateful I am that most of the kicking it took place with the sun kind of still up. My first stop was Delmar Hall for the Mo Spoon, Orlando, Rhashadism and Triky Everybotee joint venture. It was too cute. Even though I don’t really remember any memorable shirts, I couldn’t have asked for a better way to kick off a long day of kicking it. Just like I stumbled upon Coco Soul, it was serendipity that led me over to the day party that had Blue bursting at the seams. The handsome men of Kappa Alpha Psi rounded out my day party scene. They were as dapper as always in their all-white ensembles. The one thing I love about kicking it with the Kappas is that you see different generations getting together for a good time. I get a real kick out of seeing the all-age inclusive “Freaks Of The Industry” stroll. And I found out when the DJ played “Pretty Girl Rock” that there were plenty of AKAs in the house as well at Dos Salas.

Applause for Art & Soul. My weekend wrapped up with Bell Darris and her team’s triumphant presentation of Art & Soul: A Live Exhibit Sunday at .Zack. Three floors of action that included live music, art being created on the spot, plenty of Afrocentric vendors and a rooftop silent party was a great way to close out the weekend. I was even more impressed this year than the last one!

Jameka, Alycia, Kim and Tracy celebrated a portion of the holiday weekend with the Kappas @ their all white party Sunday @ Dos Salas

Malik and LaShonda arrived on the 2nd floor of .Zack during The Art & Soul Live Exhibit hosted by Belle Davis Sunday

A 3-day weekend was in full effect for Victoria, Jamila, BriBrenae and Beth as they kicked things off with @ReFresh Friday @Pepper Lounge

VaLencia and Vlacc showed their love for the King of Pop @ James Biko’s MJ Tribute Saturday @ The Ready Room

The Day Party STL crew, also known as Triky, Mo Spoon, Rhashadism and Orlando closed out the summer with EVERYBODTEE Sunday @ Delmar Hall

Lissa and Ashley slid thru Delmar Hall just to enjoy one last summer celebration Saturday afternoon

Tonya and Artavis completing their tour of .Zack’s 4th Floor for the The Art & Soul Live Exhibit

Lisa and Camille kicked back and bid farewell to summer @ EVERYBODTEE Sunday @Delmar Hall

Kenya was helping Tyonna properly begin her birthday celebration Saturday @ShiSha

The party was warming up when Taylor and Mike stepped in the building for EVERYBODTEE Sunday @ Delmar Hall

Shante’ Redden, rising comedy star Kountry Wayne and Jo Lena Johnson following his Saturday, August 31 performance at Helium Comedy Club. He made a name for himself as social media sensation, but has become one to watch among the latest crop of standup comics.

Photos by V. Lang

MESSENGER/ CUSTODIAN

Foster & Adoptive Care

Coalition has open employment opportunities. For more information go to: www.foster-adopt.org/employment

COMMUNICATIONS

SPECIALIST

ARCHS, a highly respected not-forprofit funding agency, is seeking a full-time Communications Specialist with dynamic digital-age expertise. Use creative and technical skills to convey ARCHS’ story through strategic use of social media, writing, graphic design, photos, and videos. Requirements: Minimum of a bachelor’s degree; 1-2 years of digital media experience; highly organized; deadline focused; multi-tasker; outgoing; inquisitive; have reliable transportation/ able to travel locally. ARCHS’ benefit package includes a 401(k) match. Be prepared to provide portfolio of work upon request. EMAIL initial letter of application and resume by August 30, 2019 to careers@stlarchs.org or FAX to ARCHS’ HR, 314-289-5670. No Phone Calls Please.

VIRTUALIZATION

SYSTEMS ENGINEER II

Responsible for building, maintaining and proactive management of a stable and secure virtualization infrastructure, providing Tier 2 and 3 technical support, administering VMware vSphere Infrastructure, Cisco UCS infrastructure and VMware SRM with some knowledge of NetApp’s cDOT Infrastructure for related backup and DR functions. To apply, please visit: https://www. safetynational.com/careers-page/

FILINGS COMPLIANCE

ANALYST I

To be responsible for preparation and submission of insurance carrier rate, rule, and form filings to insurance departments for assigned products. Inclusive within such responsibility are communication with state regulators, documentation of filing communications and dissemination of filing status reports to various personnel and various corporate departments. This position involves moderately complex assignments, problem solving and decision making. To apply, please visit: https://www. safetynational.com/careers-page/

Responsible for delivery of mail, supplies, packages and similar materials; performance of various unskilled laboring assignments included moving furniture and supplies, maintaining cleanliness throughout the building, snow and ice removal on sidewalks and parking lots and other maintenance tasks. HS Diploma and some prior delivery, chauffer and/or public contact experience. Must possess an excellent driving record and be capable of performing the physical duties of this position. Apply via website https://slha.aaimtrack.com or by mail to St. Louis Housing Authority, Attention: Althelia Thomas, 3520 Page Blvd., St. Louis MO 63106 on or before 5pm September 13, 2019. A Drug Free Work Place/EOE.

FIREMEDIC

Pattonville Fire Protection District is accepting applications for a FIREMEDIC position. Must meet minimum qualification, please see website www.pattonvillefd.com for details. Apply at 13900 St. Charles Rock Road, Bridgeton, Missouri, 63044; from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., August 13th, through August 28th, 2019.

COORDINATOR

ACCOUNT SERVICES

POLICY OPERATIONS

Responsible for providing client / customer support for the department’s operational functions to include the production of Excess Workers’ Compensation transactions (New Business, Renewals, Endorsements, Cancellations, Reinstatements, Notices and Nonrenewals). This position includes the accuracy in which transactions are issued, correct billing and proper distribution of final product to our customers. To apply, please visit: https://www. safetynational.com/careers-page/

CLAIMS MANAGER LIABILITY

Responsible for handling assigned claims from initial assignment to closure as well as provide assistance in various administrative functions associated with the large casualty lines of business. To apply, please visit: https:// www.safetynational.com/ careers-page/

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

The St. Louis Housing Authority is seeking a highly qualified and experienced individual to serve as its Director of Operations – HCV and Public Housing. The Director of Operations is responsible for the coordination and management of the daily operations of the Housing Choice Voucher and Public Housing Programs. The selected candidate will be responsible for ensuring that admissions and occupancy are performed in accordance with HUD guidelines and SLHA policies and procedures, monitoring the HCV and Public Housing budgets, monitoring the private management agents to ensure compliance with security, safety and regulatory contract provisions, monitoring and analyzing market trends to ensure the housing programs are competitive, supervising the daily activities of departmental personnel and ensuring high performance on the PHAS and SEMAP indicators. The ideal candidate must have a minimum of a 4-year college degree from an accredited college or university and ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in property management or managing public housing programs. Must be certified as a Public Housing Manager within six (6) months of employment. Apply via website https://slha. aaimtrack.com or by mail to St. Louis Housing Authority, Attention: Althelia Thomas, 3520 Page Blvd., St. Louis MO 63106 or via email to athomas@slha.org on or before 5pm September 18, 2019. A Drug Free Work Place/EOE.

ASSISTANT CLAIMS-LARGE CASUALTY MAIL

Responsible for various tasks related to: categorizing, imaging and processing incoming mail

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

TECHNOLOGY SPECIALIST

Troubleshoot hardware and software problems. Install computers, peripherals, and software. Associate degree, technical school diploma, or equivalent experience in computing, networking, information technology.

Posting closes 8/28. Apply at www.fergflor.org

SENIOR PRICING ACTUARY – WORKERS COMPENSATION TREATY REINSURANCE

Responsible for providing Pricing Analyses and Technical Support for Treaty Reinsurance with a focus on Workers Compensation. To apply, please visit: https:// www.safetynational.com/ careers-page/

LOAN PROCESSOR/ HOMEOWNERSHIP ADVISOR

The Housing Partnership, Inc., a nonprofit organization, has an immediate opening for a full-time employee. Responsible for client file management for participants in the Homebuyer Services program. Establish and maintain records of client files and ensure conformity to HUD guidelines and funder requirements. Looking for individual with experience in real estate, mortgage lending or housing counseling. Aptitude with numbers and excel spreadsheets important. For more information go to

EOE.

FOUNDATION ADMINISTRATOR

The City of Clayton is now accepting applications for the full-time position of Foundation Administrator for the Clayton Community Foundation. To apply, go to www.claytonmo.gov/jobs. EOE

QUALITY ASSURANCE ARCHITECT

Responsible for the development and delivery of the automated testing roadmap and pipeline. The QA Architect is a thought leader and change agent who will provide cross platform, cross tooling automation solutions that span delivery models (agile/DevOps) at different maturities. Has expertise in a broad range of solutions, tools and architectures. Ability to perform assessments, create proposals and lead the strategy, development and implementation of automated testing on a wide variety of projects. Demonstrates advanced working knowledge of automated software testing. Reports directly to the Quality Assurance manager.

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

CASE WORKER PANTRY

FT position responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Food Pantry. BA/BS plus 2 years of related experience required. $13-16/ hr. Cover letter/resume to: GASA, 1127 N. Vandeventer Ave., St. Louis, MO 63113, Fax (314) 231-8126, hr@gasastl.org. EOE.

the direction of the program Test Lead. To apply, please visit: https://www. safetynational.com/careers-page/

GROUNDSKEEPER SEASONAL

De Smet Jesuit High School seeks groundskeeper full-time from April until November each year. HS diploma or equivalent and at least one year grounds’ experience or work requiring similar skill. CDL or heavy equipment operator training a plus. Visit our website: https://www.desmet.org/about/ careers to apply. EOE M/F/D/V – Committed to Diversity and Inclusion

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Responsible for the analysis, implementation and oversight of claims administrative functions for new and renewal Large Casualty accounts.

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

PRIMATE UNIT KEEPER (TEMPORARY SEASONAL)

The Saint Louis Zoo is seeking a temporary seasonal keeper to join the Primate Unit. Primary placement will be in the Primate House, although the successful candidate may assist at the Jungle of the Apes and may be assigned there depending on the needs of the unit. The position will have roughly 450-500 hours spread during the period from approximately mid-September 2019 to mid-February 2020, generally working two to three days per week. The successful candidate must be available to work weekends and during the holiday periods including potential scheduling on the holidays themselves.

Responsibilities: Successful candidates will be adaptable and flexible, able to manage a wide array of duties and responsibilities, follow all protocols, foster a safe working environment, and possess strong communication and teamwork skills. Keepers will perform a wide variety of specialized work including daily animal care, exhibit/area cleaning, enrichment, behavioral training, animal observations, animal health care, documentation and record-keeping, minor exhibit maintenance, public presentations and tours, and other related duties as needed.

Qualifications: Some college classes/credits are preferred, previous animal care experience is a plus. A strong focus on safety and attention to detail are essential. A successful candidate will bring a strong focus on teamwork and positivity to the position. Good observation skills are important, and a strong interest in animal welfare is required. Candidates must have the physical ability to perform required duties as assigned, including standing for long periods of time, lifting, bending, climbing, and working in all types of weather. A competitive candidate will actively support and embody the Saint Louis Zoo’s core values of community, creativity, openness, integrity and life-work balance; and will be passionate about providing the highest quality of life for the animals in his/her charge. All successful candidates for this position will be required to submit to a criminal background check and drug test.

Position closes on September 5, 2019

To apply, please go to http://www.stlzoo.org/about/contact/ employment/currentjobopenings/

INFORMATIONAL MEETING FOR CONTRACTORS

Forest Park East Waterways Project

Construction contractors, please join us to learn about upcoming construction project to restore & improve the East Waterway in Forest Park.

September 11, 2–4 p.m.

Dennis & Judith Jones Visitor and Education Center

5595 Grand Drive in Forest Park

Email dlenczycki@forestparkforever.org with questions

BID NOTICE

Little Dixie Construction, LLC (1431 Cinnamon Hill Lane, Suite 209, Columbia, Missouri 65201) an EEO employer seeks MBE and WBE subcontractors and suppliers for all divisions of work on the Boone County Family Resources Office, located in Columbia, MO. Drawings, specifications and other related contract information may be obtained by calling or emailing MacKenzie Thorp (mthorp@ldconst.com / 573-449-7200). Notable deadlines are listed below. This is a prevailing wage and tax-exempt job.

RFI Deadlines –September 5th at 5pm CST Bids Due –September 12th at 2pm CST

CITY OF ST. LOUIS

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS

The City of St. Louis Department of Public Safety is seeking qualifications from interested firms to provide body worn cameras to the Division of Police. To obtain a copy of the RFQ, please visit https://www.stlouis-mo.gov/government/ procurement/index.cfm. The RFQ will be listed under “Active RFPs, RFQs and RFIs.” Proposals must be received by 12:00 Noon, CDT on Monday, September 23, 2019.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

Altman-Charter Co., requests subcontractor/supplier proposals for the construction of Sylvan Springs Senior Apartments in St. Louis, MO. This is a new 2-Story, 50 unit apartment building. Proposals are due at the office of Altman-Charter Co., 315 Consort Dr., St. Louis, MO 63011 on or before Thur., September 19, 2019 at 3:00 PM (CT). Qualified Minority, Section 3, and Women owned businesses are encouraged to submit proposals. Plans can be viewed at FW Dodge, Construct Connect, SIBA, MOKAN, Cross Rhodes Reprographics, and the Altman-Charter plan room in St. Louis. Bidders should contact Mr. Greg Mehrmann with any questionsor to submit a proposal at gregm@altman-charter.com. Our telephone # is (636) 207-8670.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Henges Shooting RangeJob# 90-23-19 & 90-23-20. Due 09.11.19 by 2 PM. Demien Const. 636.332.5500 / 636.332.5465 Fax / Call for Email

LETTING #8703

SLMP PROPERTY CUSTODY / TACTICAL RELOCATION

Sealed proposals will be received by the Board of Public Service in Room 208 City Hall, 1200 Market Street, St. Louis, Mo. Until 1:45 PM, CT, on September 24, 2019, then publicly opened and read. Plans and Specifications may be examined on the Board of Public Service website http://www.stl-bps.org/planroom.aspx (BPS On Line Plan Room) and may be purchased directly through the BPS website from INDOX Services at cost plus shipping. No refunds will be made.

A pre-bid conference for all contractors bidding on this project will be held onsite at 2150 S. 59th Street, St. Louis, MO 63110 on September 3, 2019 at 10:00 A.M.

Bidders shall comply with all applicable City, State and Federal laws (including MBE/WBE policies).

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

Missouri,Project No.O1906-01 willbereceived byFMDC,State ofMO,UNTIL 1:30PM,Tuesday, 9/24/2019,via MissouriBUYS. Biddersmustbe registeredtobid. Forspecificproject informationand orderingplans,goto: https:// missouribuys. mo.gov.

NOTICE OF FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT AND NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS

Date of Publication: 09/05/19

City of St. Louis: Community Development Administration (CDA) 1520 Market Street St. Louis, Missouri 63103 314-657-3700 / 314-589-6000 (TDD)

These notices shall satisfy two separate but related procedural requirements for activities to be undertaken by the City of St. Louis (“The City.”)

REQUEST FOR RELEASE OF FUNDS

On or after 09/23/2019, the City will submit a request to the U.S. Dept. of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) for the release of the City’s Federal CDBG Program funds under Title II of the National Affordable Housing Act of 1990, as amended, to undertake the following projects:

Project Title: Lookway Court II

Purpose: Development of seven (7) new construction single-family homes on seven platted lots in the Lookaway Summit subdivision

Location: 10052, 10054 Lookaway Drive; 710, 711, 712, 714, & 715 Lookaway Court, St. Louis, Missouri 63137

Estimated Cost: Total development cost of this project is approximately $1,430,000, with $169,932 of funding coming from St. Louis City’s Year 2017 Federal HOME Partnership funds.

FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT

The City has determined that this project will have no significant impact on the human environment. Certain conditions will apply to this project. Therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is not required. Additional information for each project is contained in the Environmental Review Record (ERR) on file at the City CDA, at the above address, where the ERR is available for review and may be examined or copied weekdays, 8 A.M. to 4 P.M.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR to Jason Hensley, Residential Development Manager, CDA, at the address listed above. All comments received by or on 09/20/2019 will be considered by the City prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds. Comments should specify which notice they are addressing.

RELEASE OF FUNDS

The City certifies to HUD that, Lyda Krewson, in her capacity as Mayor, consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. HUD’s approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities and allows the City to use the City’s above-referenced HUD program funds.

OBJECTION TO RELEASE OF FUNDS

HUD will accept objections to its release of funds and the City’s certification for a period of 15 days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases: a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer of the City; b) the City has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58; c) the grant recipient has committed funds or incurred costs not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of the release of funds by HUD; or d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58.76) and shall be addressed to Ms. Renee Ryles, Acting Community Planning & Development Director, HUD, 1222 Spruce Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103 (314) 418-5405. Potential objectors should contact HUD to verify the actual last day of the objection period.

Lyda Krewson, Mayor Certifying Officer

Specifications

The bid document will be identified as 10140 RFP. If you do not have access to the internet, call 314.768.2735 to request a copy of this bid.

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

Notice

CITY OF JENNINGS

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS PROFESSIONAL DESIGN SERVICES FOR MUNICIPAL FACILITIES – RFQ #01-19

The City of Jennings (“City”) is currently seeking a design consultant (“Firm”) to provide the professional design services required to plan, design and construct a new city hall and recreational center. Bid specifications may be obtained from Jennings City Hall, 2120 Hord Avenue, Jennings, Mo., 63136 on or after August 21, 2019, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. (CST) or via the City’s website (www.cityofjennings.org).

Sealed bids proposals shall be delivered to the above address no later than 11:00 a.m. CST, September 12, 2019. The “Firm” interviews will be conducted starting at 12:00 p.m. in the Council Room at City Hall.

St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

BIDS

Rubicon Corporation 17452 Orrville Rd, Wildwood, MO 63005 is seeking Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) and Women Business Enterprises (WBEs) for the construction of 30 single family homes. Project bids are due on Thursday, September 5, 2019 at 2:00 PM local time. Subcontracting opportunities are in the following areas: Framing; Roofing; Siding; Foundation; Flatwork; HVAC; Plumbing; Electric; Grading; and Landscaping.

All disadvantaged businesses interested in bidding any subcontract opportunities should contact Rick or Mathew at sales.rubiconcorp@ gmail.com with questions. All bids must be submitted prior to, or on due date by 2 pm. Pricing must include all taxes, fees, and permits and held for 90 days. Plans and specifications are available for free electronic download, contact estimating at the email above.

METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS SEWER DISTRICT

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is accepting proposals in the Purchasing Division, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103-2555 until 10:00 a.m. on October 3rd, 2019 to contract with a company for: Screw Press & Installation.

Specifications and bid forms may be obtained from www.stlmsd.com, click on the “MSD AT WORK” link, (bid opportunities). The bid document will be identified as 10145 RFP. If you do not have access to the internet, call 314.768.2735 to request a copy of this bid.

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

Public Notice of Single Source Procurement

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure: Immediate Need of Deep Sewer Replacement at Union Pacific Yard. The District is proposing single source procurement to JH Berra for this service because JH Berra is a deep sewer contractor prequalified with the District and on the emergency contractors list. Any inquiries should be sent to ameyer@stlmsd.com.

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

CITY OF ST. LOUIS

BOARD OF PUBLIC SERVICE

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS for PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTING SERVICES, ST. LOUIS LAMBERT INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT. Statements of Qualifications due by 5:00 PM CT, WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2019 at Board of Public Service, 1200 Market, Room 301 City Hall, St. Louis, MO 63103. RFQ may be obtained from BPS website www.stl-bps.org, under On Line Plan Room-Plan Room, or call Board of Public Service at 314-622-3535. 25% MBE and 5% WBE participation goals.

METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS SEWER DISTRICT

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District will receive sealed bids in the Purchasing Division, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103-2555 until 10:00am September 19, 2019 for: VOLT SWITCHGEAR UPGRADE

Specifications and bid forms may

Public Notice of Single Source Procurement

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure: FOXBORO SYSTEMS SUPPORT SERVICES: SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC SYSTEMS USA was used for this service. Any inquiries should be sent to gjamison@stlmsd.com.

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

ST. LOUIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES HOUSING URBAN DEVELOPMENT CONTINUUM OF CARE FY19 GRANT

The St. Louis County Department of Human Services - Homeless Services Program is seeking proposals for the Housing Urban Development Continuum of Care FY19 Grant. The total funding available is approximately $4,173.034. 00. Proposals are due by 11:00 a.m. on September 9, 2019. A Pre-Proposal Conference will be held on August 29, 2019 from 10:00 -11:30 a.m. @ the Department of Human Services, 500 Northwest Plaza, 1st floor training room, St. Ann, MO 63074. Request For Proposal details and specifications can be obtained at the St. Louis County Bids and RFPs webpage located at http://www.stlouisco.com/ YourGovernment/BidsandRFPs

Fulton, Missouri,Project No.C1915-01 willbereceived byFMDC,State ofMO,UNTIL 1:30PM, 9/10/2019via MissouriBUYS. Biddersmustbe registeredtobid.

Public Notice of Single Source Procurement

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure temporary help services from Aarkay Technologies in an effort to support the IT Technology Plan. The District is proposing single source procurement for this service because it does not have the internal expertise to fulfill this Information Technology role. Any inquiries should be sent to strenz@stlmsd.com.

Public Notice of Single Source Procurement

Religion

Churches wipe out millions in medical debt for others

RIP Medical Debt helps churches retire millions in debt with only thousands of dollars

By Roxie Hammill Of Kaiser Health News

The leaders of Pathway Church on the outskirts of Wichita, Kansas, had no clue that the $22,000 they already had on hand for Easter would have such impact.

The nondenominational suburban congregation of about 3,800 had set out only to help people nearby pay off some medical debt, recalled Larry Wren, Pathway’s executive pastor. After all, the core membership at Pathway’s three sites consists of middle-income families with school-age kids, not high-dollar philanthropists.

But then they learned that, like a modern-day loaves-and-fishes story that smaller amount could wipe out $2.2 million in debt not only for the Wichita area but all available debt for every Kansan facing imminent insolvency because of medical expenses they couldn’t afford to pay — 1,600 people in all.

Eighteen have worked with RIP in the past year and a half, said Scott Patton, the nonprofit’s director of development. More churches are joining in as word spreads.

The mountain of bills they are trying to clear is high. Medical debt contributes to two-thirds of bankruptcies, according to the American Journal of Public Health. And a 2018 Kaiser Family Foundation/ New York Times poll showed that of the 26 percent of people who reported problems paying medical bills, 59 percent reported a major life impact, such as taking an extra job, cutting other household spending or using up savings. (Kaiser Health News is an editorially independent program of the foundation.)

n “When a person has their debt forgiven, we want them to experience that as a kind of no-stringsattached gift,”

– Kenny Camacho, lead pastor of Revolution Annapolis

As Wren thought about the message of Easter, things clicked. “Being able to do this provides an opportunity to illustrate what it means to have a debt paid that they could never pay themselves,” he said. “It just was a great fit.”

Churches in Maryland, Illinois, Virginia, Texas and elsewhere have been reaching the same conclusion.

RIP Medical Debt, a nonprofit organization based in Rye, N.Y., that arranges such debt payoffs, reports a recent surge in participation from primarily Christian places of worship.

The federal Consumer Financial Protection Bureau proposed a rule recently to curb debt collectors’ ability to bug those with outstanding bills, and some states have tried various measures, such as limiting the interest rates collectors may charge. But until a comprehensive solution emerges, churches and others are trying to ease some of the load by jumping into the debt market.

A big part of RIP’s appeal comes from the impact even a small donation can have, say participating church leaders. When a person can’t pay a bill, that debt is often packaged with other people’s debt and sold to bill collectors for some fraction of the total amount of the bill. Those debts usually come from low-income people and are more difficult to collect.

RIP Medical Debt buys debt portfolios on this secondary market for pennies on the dollar with money from its donors. But instead of collecting the debt, RIP forgives it.

To be eligible for repayment from RIP, the debtor must be earning less than twice the federal poverty level (about $25,000 a year for an individual), have debts that are 5 percent or more of their annual income and have more debt than assets.

Because hospitals and doctors are eager to get those hard-to-collect debts off their books, they sell them cheap. That’s how, Patton said, those 18 churches have been able to abolish $34.4 million of debt since the start of 2018.

Working this way puts a high-dollar project within reach of even small churches. Revolution Annapolis, a nondenominational Maryland church with Sunday attendance of around 200 and without a permanent building, wiped out $1.9 million in debt for 900 families in March. Total amount raised: $15,000.

Revolution leaders heard about RIP Medical Debt on a segment of John Oliver’s “Last Week Tonight” in 2016, said Kenny Camacho, lead pastor.

But at the time, they didn’t think they had the resources to make much of a splash.

After hearing about another church that paid off millions last year, Revolution leaders decided to try it.

At most, they hoped to have an impact in their area, Camacho said. But the money went much further, eventually covering 14 counties in eastern and central Maryland.

Emmanuel Memorial Episcopal Church, a congregation of about 175 families in Champaign, Illinois, had a similar experience. The original idea was to try to have an impact just in Champaign County, said the Rev. Christine Hopkins. But their $15,000 abolished $4 million of debt for the entire diocese, which stretches across the southern half of the state.

“We were bowled over, actually,” Hopkins said. “It was to the point of tears.”

In many cases, churches have not had to do a fundraising campaign because their contribution came from money already on hand. Emmanuel Episcopal, for instance, had leftovers from a campaign set up a year ago to celebrate the centennial of its church building.

The Fincastle Baptist Church, with 1,600 members in the Roanoke, Virginia, area used money it had budgeted for an annual “Freedom Fest” event to honor first responders, and then partnered with local television station WSLS in a telethon to raise more. That effort abolished over $2.7 million in medical debt targeted at veterans.

The RIP nonprofit allows donors to choose geographic areas they want to reach and can pinpoint veterans as recipients. But beyond that, no restrictions are allowed, Patton said. A church can’t specify which types of medical procedures could be paid for or anything about the background of the recipients.

That didn’t bother church leaders contacted for this story. But it is a subject that’s been broached by donors of all types in the past, Patton said. For instance, some potential donors have asked to exclude people from different faiths or certain political parties, he said. “It’s just absurd. This is not a revenge tactic,” Patton said. “People who are requesting those things really don’t understand philanthropy.”

Churches don’t necessarily experience a direct return in the way of new members. All the processing goes through RIP Medical Debt, which sends letters notifying the beneficiaries their debts have been forgiven. Donors can have their names listed on those letters, but not everyone opts to do so.

New membership wasn’t the point for Pathway Church in Kansas, Wren said. “Sometimes the more powerful spiritual message is when you’re able to do something for somebody that you’ll never meet.”

The Revolution Church decided against putting its name on the notification letters, Camacho said, because it didn’t want beneficiaries to feel obligated. “When a person has their debt forgiven, we want them to experience that as a kind of no-stringsattached gift,” he said. “We don’t want there to be any sense that because we did this now they should visit our church or something.”