September 8th, 2011 Edition

‘A moral and intellectual compass’

Jim McLeod, pioneering Washington University dean, passes at 67

A laugh with Dad

By Rebecca S.Rivas Of The St.Louis American

“When you talk about changing lives and making dreams come true, that’s what Jim McLeod embodies.”

– Courtney Crawford, Ervin Scholar

STLand the MLK monument

Alphas from St. Louis help make dream a reality on National Mall

By Kenya Vaughn

Of The St.Louis American

“St. Louis has had its hands in the process to make this memorial a reality in a major way,” said Ty Christian. “And everyone should be as proud of that as I am –because now a King stands between two presidents.” He spoke of the St. Louis-based firm that was responsible for designing the lighting for the memorial. He mentioned the celebrities from St. Louis – including Nelly and

“There is someone who

looks like me on the Mall.” – Fred Sweets

Cedric The Entertainer – who gave their time and talents to promote fundraising for the project. But most of all, he is eternally grateful to fellow Christian Brothers College High School alumnus Harry E. Johnson Sr. – who fertilized the seed for the grand notion of Dr. King standing among the founding fathers on the National Mall in our nation’s capital. It was a project Johnson officially started while serving as national president of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity back in 2002, though it was first discussed in the fraternity (which counted King as a member) years before.

“For

was not only an influence in the world of students

United Way

By Rebecca S.Rivas Of The St.Louis American

“Many members of the Chapman Society are giving more to pick up the slack and help more people.” – Richard Mark,2011 chair of the African American Leadership Society

“The weak economy and persistent unemployment are increasing the need for more and human services for more people,” Ludemen said.

Unfortunately, the need increases just as the agencies that

$71M goal Danny Ludeman, CEO of Wells Fargo, is 2011 campaign chair See UNITED WAY, A8

“Not since the Great Depression have so many people felt the degree of need, desperation and fear as they do now,” said Danny Ludeman, CEO of Wells Fargo Advisors and 2011 United Way campaign chair. On Sept. 7, Ludeman announced that the United Way of Greater St. Louis’goal for its 2011 fundraising campaign is $71 million. Ludeman addressed more than 300 people at the kickoff event at Lumen in St. Louis. The campaign is now underway and ends early in November.

by

College-age members of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity sang “Lift Every Voice”at the private dedication ceremony for the MLK memorial held recently on the National Mall.They donned ties and hats in honor of Dr.Martin Luther King Jr.,who often wore a similar tie and hat.

Photo

Fred Sweets

Jordyn Jones, age 2, entertained her father Antonio Jones recently at the Festival of Nations held in Tower Grove Park.

Photo by Wiley Price 19442011

Photo by Wiley Price

EDITORIAL /COMMENTARY

STL needs to be forward-thinking

Supporters of either of the massive, bold economic development proposals that Paul McKee Jr. has helped to put on the table – NorthSide Regeneration and Aerotropolis – are sometimes accused of being naive by McKee’s many detractors, who predict McKee’s grand plans with fail after he has milked the public of millions of dollars in tax credits and subsidies. We are not naive about McKee or these projects. We simply realize St. Louis desperately needs to reinvent its economy if it is going to move ahead in the global world. This region needs to be able to create a more competitive environment to attract the businesses that are needed to grow and build jobs. We urgently need to make this place more attractive to private investment capital, and we can’t do this by doing the same things we have been doing. Obviously, what we have been doing in the last 20 years has not attracted enough people and capital to the region to make a difference. In fact, we are suffering business and relative population loss.

The economic development bill before the Legislature now includes several initiatives – including the major one, Aerotropolis – that could start to change the economic game in this region and state. Aerotropolis offers enormous potential to bring job-creating international cargo and high-value manufacturing to our region. If successful, Aerotropolis could be our region’s bridge to China and other fast-growing economies. It’s a badly needed step forward for a region and state that are mostly stagnant if not sliding backwards. The proposals are not without some risk, in redirecting scant state funds into a new tax credit program, but no feasible alternative has been proposed. (Let’s not forget the implausible suggestion of eliminating the income tax.) McKee’s detractors appear to be more concerned with stopping his project than offering a viable alternative. Further, the Aerotropolis proposals use a triggered, performance-based mechanism that has worked with other Missouri economic development programs, where if developers do

not build out and freight forwarders do not move freight, they don’t get the public funding.

Other things are happening in Missouri at the same time that are encouraging. There is the prospect that a major company – Express Scripts – will more than double in size. Beyond the direct impact, such developments are precisely what help to create an environment that is attractive to entrepreneurs. Growth has a cumulative effect – it’s not just the direct outcomes themselves. For example, the rapid growth in Express Scripts helps strengthen commercial trafic at our beleaguered airport, which means greater utilization of our excess capacity at Lambert will make the airport more cost-competitive and attractive to other carriers. Express Scripts beneits greatly from the unique public/partnership that created NorthPark and enabled this important, rapidly growing employer to locate its corporate facilities next to the campus of the University of Missouri–St. Louis. Along with the late Buzz Westfall, Bob Clark of Clayco and others, the much-demonized McKee played a key role in the realization of NorthPark.

We credit McKee with the foresight – and, quite frankly, the necessary cunning and savvy – to seize upon two of this region’s largest areas of unrealized potential (North St. Louis and the St. Louis airport) and devise far-reaching plans to transform them into more productive, jobenabling sectors of the region and its economy. This region needs more people like McKee who dream big, are forward-thinking and work hard to bring their vision to fruition. There is, of course, no assurance these plans will succeed, and it is imperative that we exercise due diligence and prudence. But we think Aerotropolis and other economic development initiatives represent a potential major leap forward for St. Louis, and we encourage our legislators and governor to include them in a completed and signed bi-partisan economic development bill that has safeguards to prevent abuse and political favoritism.

Recent reports of the increase in the black-white wealth gap barely scratch the surface of what is truly going on in the black economic community.

According to a recent Pew Research Center report, the median wealth of white U.S. households was $113,149, compared to $5,677 for blacks, a ratio of 20 to 1. If you take note of the fact that the average white household income is $54,461, compared with $32,584 for black households, it is not very surprising. Wealth is measured by the amount of houses, cars, bank accounts, stocks and mutual funds, minus the sum of debts such as mortgages, auto loans and credit card debt. As we all know income plays a large part in the number of assets a household can accumulate. The mere fact that the average African-American household makes 40 percent less than the average white household contributes to the increasing racial wealth gap. Looking upon these igures makes you wonder, what can be done to decrease the blackwhite wealth gap?

Education is commonly known as the great equalizer and key to success for all races. While African-American college graduates’ income still lags behind their white counterparts, the disparities tend to be less than those of high school graduates. In 2007 the median income for blacks with bachelor’s degrees is $46,000, compared to $55,500 for whites, according to a 2008 Current Population Survey from the U.S. Department of Commerce. This is 17.2 percent less than the median income of non-Hispanic whites with a bachelor’s degree. African Americans with master’s degrees had a median income of $57,500, which constitutes 88 percent of the median income of their white counterparts. Amongst white and black females with graduate degrees there was no income gap.

Thus, education is a well known key to economic prosperity. However, too few African Americans take hold of the beneits. In 2010, 92.1 percent of whites 25 years and over earned at least a high school diploma, compared to 84.6 percent of African Americans. Despite the increasing number of African Americans obtaining high school diplomas, only 20 percent have attained a bachelor’s degree or higher. According to the Bureau

of Labor Statistics, job force projections indicate that the demographic composition of the 2018 labor force will be dramatically different from today. By 2018, nearly half of all new jobs will require a post-secondary education credential with 31.4 percent of new careers requiring a bachelor’s degree. Although progress has been made in the areas of educational attainment, 70 percent of prime workingage African-American adults and 80 percent of Hispanics will lack the requisite education for almost 40 percent of projected new jobs (State of Black America 2011).

As we look at the inequality of wealth distribution in the American society, it is imperative that we as African Americans do what it takes to decrease the economic gaps. While disparities exist even at the master’s and doctoral levels, having a college education is crucial to increasing income and wealth in the black community.

Now is the time for a cultural shift in the African-American society towards teaching both older and younger generations the importance of attending and inishing college.

Buford is president and CEO of the Urban league of Metropolitan St. Louis

COMMENTARY

Wars, tax cuts, Bush and Cheney

Thank you, George W. Bush and Dick Cheney, for emerging from your secure, undisclosed locations to remind us how we got into this mess.

The important thing isn’t what Bush says in his interview with National Geographic or what scores Cheney tries to settle in his memoir. What matters is that as they return to the public eye, they highlight their record of wrongheaded policy choices that helped bring the nation to a sour, penurious state.

Questions about whether President Obama has been combative enough in dealing with the Republican opposition – or suficiently ambitious in framing his progressive agenda – seem trivial when viewed in this larger context. Obama is tackling enormous problems that took many years to create. His presidential style is important insofar as it boosts or lessens his effectiveness, but pales beside the generally righteous substance of what he’s trying to accomplish.

It was the Bush administration, you will recall, that sent the national debt into the stratosphere and choked off federal revenues to the point of asphyxiation. Bush and Cheney decided to ight two wars without even accounting for them, let alone paying. Rather than raise taxes to cover the cost of military campaigns in Afghanistan and Iraq, Bush opted to maintain unreasonable

and unnecessary tax cuts.

So far, the wars and the tax cuts have cost the Treasury between $4 trillion and $5 trillion. If Bush had just left income tax rates alone, nobody except Ron Paul would be talking about the debt.

When Bush was campaigning for the White House in 2000, the government was anticipating a projected surplus of roughly $6 trillion over the following decade. Bush said repeatedly that he thought this was too much and wanted to bring the surplus down – hence, in 2001, the irst of his two big tax cuts.

Bush was hewing to what had already become Republican dogma and by now has become something akin to scripture: Taxes must always be cut because government must always be starved.

The party ascribes this golden rule to Ronald Reagan – conveniently forgetting that Reagan, in his eight years as president, raised taxes 11 times. Reagan may have believed in small government but he did believe in government itself. Today’s Republicans have perverted Reagan’s philosophy into a kind of anti-government nihilism.

The Bush administration also pushed forward Reagan’s policy of deregulation – ignoring, for example, critics who said the ballooning market in mortgagebacked securities needed more oversight. When the 2008 inancial crisis hit, Bush did regain his faith in government long enough to throw together the $800 billion TARP bailout for the banks. But he failed to use the leverage of an aid package to exact reforms that would

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Old classmates, new strangers

The invitation was to my 50th class reunion of the 1961 January/June Vashon graduating class. It seemed strange, the number 50: strange, because who really keeps track of such events like this, which occur so fast in the scheme of a fastpaced life. I admittedly was nervous as I approached the Pear Tree Hotel. I thought about the years gone by, trying to replace myself at the old Vashon High School.

The faces of the past were blurred, the event surreal, the reality almost upon me. As I entered the lobby and looked across the room, I saw a white banner with blue letters spelling out VASHON. Suddenly, I was there again – this time older, more tired, yet so happy.

The faces were of my classmates, but the faces were also of strangers. I looked at my Yearbook pictures and cowardly sought to hide my lack of recognition of who it was who called my name. Where was the leet-footed track star, the rebounding basketball great, the beautiful-voiced alto, the one voted to succeed? They were there, but they wore another posture. The track star was slower, the alto spoke in hushed whispers, the basketball star – well, the game was over.

In the Bible, the prophet Ezekiel describes a scene in which God commands an angel to destroy all His people for their sins. As the bodies fell, the blood rose. The prophet standing in the midst of the carnage said, “And I was spared.” This was my reunion, 50 long years had passed, and all of us in that room were older, larger, slower, wiser – and we had been “spared.”

Edward Blair, St. Louis

Light shed on hate

I am the whitest of white males. I become slack-jawed watching the Republican/ Tea Party people as they try to tear President Obama to shreds. Their mouths smile while their eyes blaze with fury. I’ve seen it before in my life, and I think it is rac-

ensure that the inancial system served the economy, rather than the other way around.

Faced with similar circumstances, would today’s Republican leadership react at all? Or is it the party’s view that the proper role of government would be to stand aside and watch the world’s inancial system crash and burn?

This is a serious question. Just a few weeks ago, the Republican majority in the House threatened to force the United States government to default on its debt obligations -- a previously unthinkable act of brinkmanship.

The Bush administration took Reagan’s tax-cutting, government-starving philosophy much too far. Today’s Republican Party takes it well beyond, into a rigid absolutism that would be comical if it were not so consequential.

We face devastating unemployment. Many conservative economists have joined the chorus calling for more short-term spending by the federal government as a way to boost growth. But the radical Republicans don’t pay attention to conservative economists anymore. The Republicans’ idea of a cure for cancer would be to cut spending and cut taxes.

Perhaps they’re just cynically trying to keep the economy in the doldrums through next year to hurt Obama’s chances of re-election. I worry that their fanaticism is sincere – that one of our major parties has gone completely off the rails. Having Bush and Cheney reappear is a reminder to step back and look at what Obama is up against. You might want to cut him a little slack.

ism. Old-school racism, coming from way down deep in the DNA. Hate-driven politics must be brought into the light. I love the United States of America, and I support President Obama.

Daniel D. Spring, Olivette, Mo.

Race and redistricting

Adolphus Pruitt’s article “Courts must not dilute minority vote” cites the U.S. Voting Rights Act that “no plan for reapportionment may dilute the black vote.” He contends that doing so would “deny black voters the opportunity to elect a representative of their choice.”

Districting under this premise mandates that where there are black populations, black majorities must be established in order for black candidates to be elected.

The citizens of St. Louis elected a black mayor at a time when the city had no black majority and was allegedly racially divided. Barack Obama and other examples abound. So black candidates get elected just like other candidates: because of qualiications, political afiliation, etc., not necessarily because of their ethnicity or a black majority.

The drawing of political districts is fair when the districts have an equal number of residents without regard for societal factors and when the geographic boundaries of districts are simple shapes, rather than shapes resembling a fractal geometry problem.

Michael K. Broughton, Green Park, Mo.

Achieve together

We must recognize that America is blessed, but also realize that if we are to continue to enjoy this blessing we must assume personal responsibility. Grasping this personal responsibility will result in many individuals becoming productive citizens, which will result in the formation of caring communities. They will be able to understand that the greatness of America, as intended by God, lies richly in each American. And moreover, that

our economy and our national security are the responsibility of each citizen. As my bishop, Bishop Luther Blackwell, recently told me, “Together each achieves much.”

Allif H. Dove, St. Louis

James H. Buford

Columnist Eugene Robinson

Spurring investment and jobs around the under-utilized St. Louis airport is the primary goal of the Aerotropolis tax incentives.

Online index of Washington Park Cemetery reinterments

Genealogists searching for the burial places of African Americans have a new, free research tool available at the St. Louis City Recorder of Deeds and Vital Records website. The office has published indexing of 11,974 reinterments from Washington Park Cemetery, one of the St. Louis region’s largest African-American cemeteries.

In 1996, the City of St. Louis acquired the northern part of Washington Park Cemetery for purposes of aviation obstruction removals and land use compatibility relating to the largest runway at the city-owned Lambert-St. Louis International Airport.

The City’s Washington Park Cemetery North project included disinterment, transportation, and reinterment of the human remains buried in the affected areas. Twenty-three cemeteries in Missouri and Illinois were utilized.

The City was required to record a report containing the name of each deceased person disinterred and location of reburial.

The 299 page report was recorded with the St. Louis City Recorder and Registrar and is now available online as the Washington Park Cemetery North Reinterment Index at www.stlouiscityrecorder.org.

In most cases, each entry includes the name of decedent; previous burial location at Washington Park Cemetery; reburial location- name of cemetery and section, lot, and grave number; date of relocation. Acontact list for the reinterment cemeteries is also provided on the City Recorder and Registrar’s website.

The remaining southern section of Washington Park Cemetery remains in private ownership. The City Recorder and Registrar has no burial records relating to those interments.

Persons with questions relating to the Index may call 314-5898174.

Building character at Character Camp

Students at Cold Water Elementary School in the Hazelwood School District create posters to emphasize respect and treating others well during Character Camp.The camp sets the tone for the school year and helps students understand the school’s expectations of being responsible,respectful and safe.The students pledge,“We the people of Cold Water School promise to be responsible for ourselves,respectful to others,and safe in everything we do.”

Olderadults sought to tutorstudents

Pattonville is seeking older adult volunteers who can spend up to one hour a week tutoring a student in kindergarten through third grade through Pattonville’s OASIS tutoring program. Tutors help children with language skills. Afree, 12-hour training session is required. Pattonville will offer training on Sept. 15 and 16. To volunteer, contact Kelly Kendall in the Pattonville school-community relations office at 314213-8025 or kkendall@psdr3.org.

ESLfree health fairand concert

The City Professional Center Business Incubation, 4601 State Street

In East St. Louis, will be hosting the “Saving the Child In U” health fair and musical concert on Saturday, September 17 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“We will increase health awareness by providing health screenings, activities, materials, demonstrations, and information,” organizers claim. “We will also increase awareness of local, state and national health services and resources; we shall motivate participates to make positive health behavior changes; and teach self- care practices; identify topics and participants for future educational health programs. The event is free; space is limited and can be reserved by calling 618-215-5832 or emailing cpi.bi@yahoo.com.

Thinking deeper on black men and joblessness

By Ruth-Miriam Garnett Guest Columnist

Recently, a number of shoes have dropped in the political arena. Before venturing into the fray, I felt it pertinent to highlight issues from the not-so-distant past.

Author Haki Madhubuti’s 1991 tome, Black Men, Obsolete, Single Dangerous:TheAfrikan American Family In Transition, contended that high unemployment among black males, making it impossible for them to support their families, resulted in their involuntarily relinquishing head of household status.

In 1965, sociologist and Massachusetts Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan’s TheMoynihan Report argued that black women occupying the breadwinner role was emasculating and pathological, contributing to criminal behavior and broken families.

Citing anthropologist Bronislaw Manlinowki’s finding that all human groups acknowledge the paternal parent, Moynihan averred that female-headed households were innately aberrant, contrasting with the nuclear norm.Moynihan argued for the creation of jobs for black men to offset matriarchy, facilitating War On Poverty policy, despite his fundamentally flawed reasoning.

In fact, Malinowski and other anthropologists documented numerous societies which trace descent through the mother, making the maternal uncle the dominant male in the life of a child.Ironically, the only instance of matrilineal descent found in Western culture is in the American slave system, where black children of white males had no rights of inheritance due to them from white fathers.

Achild inherited the mother’s slave status, remained property and often went completely unrecognized by the white father/owner.This legally sanctioned practice was completely missing from Moynihan’s analysis, which, in 2001, he repeats:“We had stumbled onto a major change.” That is, many black children did not have a known father.So much for incipient pathology.

Strictly speaking, anthropology discourages imposing preconceived models drawn from Western social contexts onto others.Sociologists, observing modernized people, have often fallen prey to such projections.When observing African-American culture, such myopia is not rare.

Mr. Madhubuti’s discussion is an incisive and comprehensive dissection of external pressures brought to bear on black males and attendant crises.Author Michelle Wallace’s 1979 Black Macho and the Myth of the Superwoman, an earlier refutation of Moynihan, established convincingly the vulnerabilities of urban black women in the face of male absence and concomitant poverty.Madhubuti apparently embraced the black feminist argument that sexism, classism and racism are intertwined, while focusing on the black male predicament.

President Obama will speak to the nation on jobs, amid criticism coming from multiple directions.Many are eager for reprimand.I encourage avoiding simplistic commentary on black male joblessness in particular, but rather, a review of cogent summations by adept analysts. I have no doubt the president will give utmost credence to informed opinion.Madhubuti’s and others’work identifies problematical, quite germane questions.These should be revisited.

RuthMiriam Garnett

McLEOD

Continued from A1

and the curriculum, but he directed the African and African American Studies Program and kept it afloat, was largely responsible for the acquisition of the Hampton Archive, helped to launch the Black Alumni Council, and was mostly behind our joining the network of Mellon-Mays schools that encourage and support minority undergraduates to pursue the Ph.D.” McLeod received the St. Louis American Foundation’s Lifetime Achiever award at the 2008 Salute to Excellence in Education.

“Jim McLeod was a rare and beloved person who will be deeply missed and who can never be completely replaced in this community,” said Donald M. Suggs, president of the St. Louis American Foundation.

“He was a pioneer as a scholar and administrator at a world-class university, yet one that has not always done as well at its peers at attracting and retaining AfricanAmerican, intellectual talent. St. Louis owes Jim an enduring debt for nurturing a great many supremely talented African Americans in St. Louis. His gentle spirit was accompanied by a singular brilliance in a challenging area of scholarship.”

As director of the John B. Ervin Scholars Program, which was established in 1986 for the most promising AfricanAmerican students, McLeod was known for his endlessly caring and nurturing spirit.

“One of his legacies was that he never stopped working for other people,” said Courtney Crawford, an Ervin Scholar from 1996 to 2000 who is now a physician.

“When you talk about changing lives and making dreams come true, that’s what Jim McLeod embodies. He was truly a man whose walk was consistent with every word.”

Charles Brown Jr., an Ervin Scholar who graduated in 1996, said McLeod taught him many things, but humility stands out above the rest.

“The more personable thing we all learn from him was how to be the most important person in the room by being the most humble person in the room,” Brown said.

Charles’mother Shirley Brown said she and her husband were active on the Washington University parent council because both of their sons, Charles Jr. and the attorney Daniel R. Brown, were Ervin Scholars.

When Charles Brown Sr. became superintendent at the Wellston School district in

2005, he spoke to McLeod about ways the university could collaborate with Wellston. McLeod called Charles Sr. later and presented the idea of having Wash. U. host a summer school program for Wellston students. Soon after, Wellston met an extraordinary goal – all of the graduating seniors went on to colleges. It was largely because their eyes had been opened on Wash. U.’s campus, the Browns said.

“Without him, there was no way Wellston could have done something like that,” Shirley Brown said. “Jim got things done quietly. He empowered people. He enabled other people to want to help others.”

Though his impact on Wellston students was profound, McLeod would quietly say, “We are just being good neighbors of Wellston,” Shirley said. “You could see how that would make the students feel comfortable instantly.”

In 2004, McLeod led the transition to opening the Ervin Scholars program to all students, regardless of race. This year marked the inaugural for the McLeod Scholars Program, an undergraduate scholarship endowment that honors

McLeod.

‘The most important people’

Christina Williams interned at the Ervin Scholars office from her freshman year in 2007 to 2011, while also being part of the program.

“From the moment you walked on campus, he knew all of our names, where we were from and our background stories,” said Williams, who graduated with a double major in Spanish and Anthropology.

Williams knew McLeod for most of her life because his daughter and her brother were classmates since preschool. However, she and her friends still thought of him as a celebrity on campus.

“He was so important, but he would go out of his way to talk to us,” Williams said. “We would pretend like we were going to pass out when we saw him, he was such a celebrity.”

For many students, it was like having an “ever-present, moral and intellectual compass” available to them any time they needed him, said Jerome Strickland, an Ervin Scholar from 1996 to 2000.

“Dean McLeod made all of us students feel as though we

were the most important people on the planet,” Strickland said.“His ‘Habits of Achievement’lessons ingrained in me and my peers a more intense commitment to disciplined preparation in all areas of our lives.I cannot imagine how broad the effects of his leadership have spread.”

From 2002 to 2005, Strickland became part of the Ervin program staff. Strickland watched as McLeod demonstrated how gentle, thoughtful words can yield incredible influence, he said.

“In fact, just like Sampson, I think his power was in his hair – his Afro was legendary,” Strickland said.

A campus lifeline

One of the reasons why Courtney Crawford came to Wash. U. was because he saw McLeod as a father figure he could look up to and lean on, he said.

“He believed in our abilities probably more than we believed in ourselves,” Crawford said. “Despite stumbles and hurdles, today I’m a physician, and Dean McLeod helped me over those rough patches, undoubtedly.”

Charles Brown Jr. said

among the 100,000 licensed architects in the United States, 1,800 are African American.

The School of Architecture reflected as much during his undergraduate years, he said.

“Being at a majority institute like Wash. U., you could feel isolated or alone,” he said.

“The Ervin Scholar program gave me a family on the campus so I didn’t feel isolated.”

Chris King, managing editor of The St. Louis American, knew McLeod as an undergraduate, a graduate student and an adjunct faculty member in the AfricanAmerican studies program.

“He was helpful to me at every level,” King said. “He was always this calm presence who knew how the university system worked and tried to help people succeed in that system. He was a lifeline to black students and faculty –but not only to black students and faculty.”

campuses, “I thought about the long term.”

“Jim got things done quietly.He empowered people.He enabled other people to want to help others.”

– Shirley Brown

McLeod’s service to community didn’t stop at the Danforth Campus.

He served as a member of the Board of Trustees of the American Youth Foundation, the National Council on Youth Leadership, the St. Louis Art Museum, and Churchill Center & School for Learning Disabilities. He chaired the board of the Express Scripts Foundation and the advisory board of New City School.

“He had the expectation for all students – not just the scholars – to develop a responsibility towards community, towards self and towards and the global community,” said Charles Brown Jr. “He wanted the scholars to embrace community leadership as much as he expected us to embrace academic excellence.”

Foundation of respect

Jim McLeod grew up in Dothan, Alabama where he learned a great respect for education from his parents and family, he told The American in a 2008 interview.

With the support of his family, he graduated from Morehouse College in Atlanta and received his graduate degree at Rice University in Houston. His research included the cultural history of turn-ofthe-century Vienna and postwar Germany. He also spent a summer as a volunteer in Kenya with Operation Crossroads Africa and studied for two years at the University of Vienna in Austria.

While he said it was not his original plan to be a professor and spend his career on some the nation’s most prestigious

“I wanted to take the steps that would help me make the most of where I was and what I was doing,” he said. He found that space at Wash. U. in 1974 as an assistant professor of German, after a previous position in the German department at Indiana University in Bloomington. He went on to hold various administrative positions, including: assistant dean of the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences from 1974-77; assistant to Chancellor William H. Danforth from 1977-1987; and director of the African and AfroAmerican Studies Program (now known as African & African American Studies) from 1987 until 1992, when he was appointed dean of the College of Arts & Sciences.

In his 2008 interview, McLeod said he was just as enthused about academia then as he had ever been in his life.

“In some ways, I even enjoy it more,” he told the American

“As you get older things take on new meaning. Since I know what I am doing can mean for the community, it still charges me up. I am doing something that can last for generations. That’s what makes this a terrific job.” In addition to his many achievements, McLeod was a Woodrow Wilson Fellow, and a NDEA(National Defense Education Act) Fellow. In 1991, he received the Washington University Founders Day Distinguished Faculty Member Award.

“We oftentimes don’t see or hear of current legacies and individuals of greatness,” said Courtney Crawford. “We’re always talking about people who lived 50 years ago. Jim McLeod is that example. You don’t have to look further than Jim McLeod.”

“There is so much that all of us – faculty, staff, and students – owe Jim McLeod, for he truly enriched this place,” said Gerald Early.“Words are inadequate to describe the nature and extent of that debt.”

He is survived by his wife Clara, a librarian in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences in Arts & Sciences; a daughter, Sara, of Atlanta; his father, the Rev. James C. McLeod of Dothan; a brother, Jeff McLeod of Birmingham; and two sisters, Alice Head and Mary Parker, both of Dothan. He was preceded in death by his mother, Earline McLeod.

Washington University Dean Jim McLeod (right) visited with former Washington University Chancellor Bill Danforth and St.Louis American Foundation president Donald M.Suggs when the foundation honored McLeod with its 2008 Lifetime Achievement award at the 2008 Salute to Excellence in Education.

Photo by Wiley Price

Special to The American

In a show of appreciation and a way to say thank you, Lewis Place Historical Preservation Inc., is inviting everyone who lent a hand to the neighborhood’s recovery to its annual festival, this year themed “Rebuilding and Restoring One Home at a Time.”

The neighborhood outing is set for Saturday, September 17 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the parkway at 4600 Lewis Place. The festival will feature games, face-painting, a petting zoo, clown and a concert featuring Cheryl Brown and Co. In keeping with tradition, fundraising BBQ dinners of ribs and chicken will be sold, which can be purchased in advance. Free hot dogs, popcorn and punch will be avail-

UNITEDWAY

Continued from A1 provide those vital services suffer from cuts in government funding – an estimated $30 million this year alone, he said.

Although the United Way campaign had its official kickoff, the Charmaine Chapman Society has been busy for a couple of months, said Richard Mark senior vice president, Customer Operations, Ameren Missouri and 2011 chair of the African American Leadership Society for the regional United Way – the largest and most effective such United Way society in the nation.

“We have more than $400,000 pledged to our 2011 efforts,” Mark said. “African Americans continue to be disproportionately impacted by

Lewis Place says, ‘Thank You’

Invites those who helped with recovery to annual festival

able for all.

Nine months has passed since the New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2010 tornado hit the St. Louis area and wrecked havoc in the historic Lewis Place neighborhood and surrounding communities in North St. Louis City. Many homes were badly damaged by the fierce winds, and many homeowners were either displaced or forced to live in challenging conditions. Many of the residents are elderly with insufficient or no insurance.

Lewis Place is home to houses built between 18901920 featuring handsome brickwork. It is anarea where one of the first struggles by African-Americans to break the color line was waged against restrictive covenants, which enforced racial segrega-

unemployment and need. Many members of the Chapman Society are giving more to pick up the slack and help more people.”

United Way of Greater St. Louis invests more than $1 million each week in the community to help one in three people in the region through more than 170 local agencies it funds.

“The single most important thing I can let people know is every dollar raised truly does make a positive difference,” said Gary Dollar, CEO and president of United Way of Greater St. Louis. “Each of those dollars adds up, and with that we’re able to help people. Which is what this campaign is about, helping as many people in our region as possible.”

Last year, more than 200,000 people and 2,500 businesses donated to the

tion. Friends, neighbors, government, various church- and communitybased organizations and agencies rallied around Lewis Place to help the residents start the recovery process.

City and state officials pledged $1 million for repairs.

Friends, neighbors, government, various church- and community-based organizations and agencies rallied around Lewis Place to help the residents start the recovery process.

Organizations like The Prince Hall Masons, Thrivant, Kirkwood Baptist ChurchPassport Camp, Centennial Christian Church and others provided services ranging from repairs, painting, carpentry, clean-up, gardening, weeding

regional United Way, raising more than $68.07 million.

“The good news is that we have the power to avert a disaster by uniting to make certain that the safety net provided by the United Way and its agencies remains strong, intact and prevents struggling families from slipping into a generation, or more, of poverty,” Ludeman said.

The money raised for the local campaign will stay in the 16 Missouri and Illinois counties: St. Louis City, St. Louis County, St. Charles, Jefferson, Franklin, Warren, and Lincoln in Missouri; Calhoun, Green, Macoupin, Jersey, Madison, Clinton, St. Clair, Monroe and Randolph in Illinois.

Individuals can pledge a donation by calling 314-4210700 or visiting www.stl.unitedway.org.

and to the donation of supplies and equipment. Individuals donated money and time, including 13year-old Nile Trice who sponsored a skating party that raised $1,066.

“Progress has been made,” said Pamela Talley, head of the historical preservation. “We feel we’ve been showered with blessings.”

Individuals, organizations and groups that have contributed to the recovery of Lewis Place include: Laura Moore, Marin Powers, Teresa Scurlock, Thad

Jr. and Rita M Hollie, Margaret Ann McCabe, St. Margaret of Scotland School, Dorothy L. Moody, Angela Hester, Ruth Murray, Centennial Christian Church, St. Louis WHIP, Tony Renner, Lawrence & Catherine Long, Judy and Herbert Dean Bentley, Christ Community Bible Church, Mrs. Sylvia B. Pope, Grady Brown, Donnie Miles, S.W. William Kelley, MWPHGL1st District, St. Mathews The Apostle Church, Clara Mae Pinkton, Ramon and Ruby Trice, Beatrice & Lonnie Vicks, Charles McGaugh Jr, Tim A& Diana S Morrison, Regina Greer, Nile Trice, Maria Hill, TAHebron, Olabisi Solar, Antwine Rook and Alice M. Parham. They also include Parkway School District Board of Education, Manasseh Ministry,

Loretta Horton, Dorothy J. Bass, New Cote Brilliante Church of God, Pearlie I. Evans, CM Hay, Webster Groves Baptist Church, The Urban League of Metro St. Louis, Southeast MO-IL-WI Region of Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, St. Louis District CME Missionary Society, St. Thomas Holy Church ELCA, Mercy Seat Missionary Baptist Church, The Spirit Church, Prince Hall Masons, Robert Boyle/CEO of Justine Peterson, Federation of Block Units and Kirkwood Baptist Church-Passport Camp.

For more information about the festival, call Pamela Talley at 314-5341354 or visit www.LewisPlaceSTL.org.

Flint Fowler of Herbert Hoover Boys and Girls Club,United Way VP Orvin Kimbrough and attorney Don Calloway visited with Gary Dollar,CEO and president of United Way of Greater St.Louis,at the recent kickoff of the United Way’s 2011 African American Leadership Society.

Nearly 10 years and more than $120 million in funds raised after the campaign got underway, Johnson and his dream of honoring King became a reality. “I can’t begin to tell you how proud I am that a St. Louisan was spearheading the fundraising,” said Fred Sweets, Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist from St. Louis and a contributing editor at The St. Louis American

“There is something about St. Louis that develops tremendous brothers with a lot a follow-through.”

Because of their leadership, for the first time an African American has been honored with a federal monument on the National Mall.

“Now there is someone who looks like me on the Mall,” Sweets said.

‘Ain’t no little hurricane’

Two weeks ago, the plan was to honor the fruits of Johnson’s labor with a ceremony that would be observed internationally with remarks by President Obama. Though Hurricane Irene forced a cancellation, thousands of Americans braved the elements to honor King in a private ceremony led by the Alphas.

“With all the things black folk have been through, ain’t no little hurricane going to stop this,” the Rev. Joseph Lowery said at the prayer service on Saturday.

He stood alongside King back in 1957 as leaders of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference – and stood by his side back in 1963 when King delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech. Nearly 50 years later, Lowery stood in the same spot alongside a statue of King’s likeness.

“I witnessed the nation’s response to his suffering,” Lowery said. “Thank you, Jesus.”

Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha celebrate following the private dedication of the Dr.Martin Luther King,Jr.National Memorial on the National Mall in Washington,D.C.From left,Rev.Joseph Lowery,president emeritus of Dr.King’s Southern Christian Leadership Conference;Rev.C.T. Vivian,a close colleague of King’s;and Fred Sweets,a St. Louis native and St.Louis American contributing editor who documented the civil rights struggle.

The fact that King becomes the first non-president memorialized on the National Mall is worthy of praise.

“Forty-eight years ago, Dr. King took to the steps of the Lincoln Memorial and challenged our nation to fulfill his dream of equality for all Americans,” said National Park Service Director Jonathan B. Jarvis. “On the anniversary of that speech, we are proud to add the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial to the National Park System as a lasting tribute to this American hero.”

Lowery, also an Alpha, was on hand for the private dedication service that the fraternity held the day before. “It was some place I needed

to be, and it was a tremendous sense of brotherhood,” said Sweets, also an Alpha. “It was honoring a great Alpha brother alongside other great Alpha brothers in the movement like Joseph Lowery, C.T. Vivian and others.”

The dream as a teen Sweets was barely a teen when he first heard Dr. King speak during a fundraiser at a NNPAconvention in Cleveland with his father Nathaniel Sweets, who at the time served as publisher of The St. Louis American “What a humble and wonderful man he was,” Sweets

said of Dr. King. “I gave him all the money I had in my pocket.”

Afew years later, as a senior in high school, Sweets went to Alabama to take part in the march from Selma to Montgomery – and revisited the march as a working journalist 20 years later.

But on this day Sweets stood with his fraternity to pay homage to the monument that enshrines Dr. King and his struggle.

The memorial might have the capacity to inspire and incite the same way the man himself sparked something within an adolescent Sweets so many decades before.

“There’s something about

seeing the face of King and his fabulous quotes,” Sweets said of the monument. “Knowing his voice and the way that he spoke, when you read the quotes you can almost hear him speaking. It’s an emotional experience to see his likeness looking over the Tidal Basin for the first time.”

Christian saw visitors’emotional experiences first-hand when the monument opened its doors. He remembered seeing one young mother carry two children through the Mall on her hip to get to Dr. King.

“I can’t say what people are going to feel when they see it,” Christian said. “But I can assure you they will feel something. I’m just so grateful to

have been a part of it all, and I’m grateful to the team that worked under the leadership of Harry to make this a reality.”

The reality of the monument will help transform the reality of the future, Sweets said.

“There is a Native American saying that goes, ‘Your ancestors live as long as you think of them,’” Sweets said. “His desire for peace and brotherhood lives as long as we think of him and remember what he stands for.”

Information from the Washington Post contributed to this report.

Photo by Michael Dutton

Harry E.Johnson and Ty Christian visited Washington,D.C.as youth with classmates at Christian Brothers College High School.The friends from St.Louis later would spearhead,along with other Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity brothers,the successful effort to raise a monument to Dr.Martin Luther King Jr.on the National Mall.

Photo courtesy of Ty Christian

Nixon should and will put Draper on court

Some predictions regarding this incredibly impressive panel of nominees that the Appellate Judicial Commission submitted to Gov. Jay Nixon to ill the vacancy on the Missouri Supreme Court left by the retirement of Judge Michael A. Wolff

Judge Michael W. Manners – a circuit judge in the 16th Judicial Circuit (Jackson County) – will make Missouri justice proud and create national headlines with his handling of the Reginald Clemons case; he was appointed special master to review the Clemons case when the state Supreme Court last supended Clemons’ death sentence. He also will one day be a judge on the Missouri Supreme Court. But Manners will not be the next judge on the Missouri Supreme Court.

Joe D. Jacobson – a shareholder in the St. Louis law irm of Green Jacobson PC who has never been a judge –will continue to serve the New Northside Missionary Baptist Church as its expert pro bono transactional lawyer, among other volunteer legal commitments to the black community. He also will one day become the second Jewish person to serve as a judge on the Missouri Supreme Court.

But Jacobson will not be the next judge on the Missouri Supreme Court. The next judge on the Missouri Supreme Court will be Judge George W. Draper III, who is currently a highly respected judge on the Missouri Court of Appeals, Eastern District. Nixon will select Draper to become the second African American to serve on the state’s highest court. Judge Ronnie White is the only African American to serve on the court thus far. For the record, Judge Richard B. Teitelman, chief justice of the Mis-

souri Supreme Court and chair of the commission that selected this sparkling panel of nominess, is the only Jewish person to serve on the high court. He also is the only legally blind person to have done so and certainly one of the best-liked, most able and kindest. When Judge Draper joins him on the bench, he will give Judge Teitelman a run for his money as best-liked Supreme. Working in literally the most contentious ield among all the professions (except, perhaps, politics, a ield he now also has entered), Draper manages to be almost universally well-liked and respected. The commission handed Nixon an easy choice to do the right thing in ensuring African-American representation on the state’s highest court, presiding over a legal system that disproportionantly impacts black people in certain areas. Those who like to mull over the odds could make a case that the nominees were selected in a way that makes it easy for Nixon to choose the black candidate going into an election year when a sitting Democrat governor will need a large and loyal black turnout at the polls.

Why? Manners is at least Draper’s equal as a jurist; in fact, he received seven votes from the commission, compared to Draper’s ive votes and Jacobson’s four. But Manners is a past president of the Missouri Trial Lawyers Association, a signiicant source of campaign dollars for Democrats and a pet target of Missouri Republicans. Nixon would take a political hit from the right for picking Manners. Jacobson is eminently qualiied for the bench and also has few if any detractors in the profession. But unlike Draper, he has never worked as a judge,

and he received slightly less conidence from the commission than Draper did. Both men live in the St. Louis area, so geographic loyalties are divided between them. Thinking in terms of race, as in-touch politicians have no choice but to do, Draper is the obvious choice over Jacobson – and Nixon would take a political hit from the black community for passing over Draper. And consider this as well. When choosing nominees, the commission passed over another African-American applicant – Lisa White Hardwick a highly esteemed judge on the Missouri Court of Appeals, Western District – who is at least as qualiied as the three nominees who made the inal cut. A seasoned court watcher told the EYE it’s unlikely the commission would come back with two black nominees out of three, even if two of the three best candidates were black.

Had Hardwick made the panel, Nixon choosing her for the bench would have meant tilting the court to a female majority (Wolff’s resignation left the bench with three men

and three women).

Though the EYE is ready for a female majority on the Missouri Supreme Court, not everyone in the male-dominated legal profession whose support Nixon needs is ready for that.

So choosing Hardwick for the bench would have been more controversial in some circles than choosing Draper. Draper is an easy choice for Nixon to make, the choice he should make and the choice he will make.

Circuit, not deal, breakers

One of the major dilemmas facing legislators who favor the job creating aspects of Aerotropolis legislation is a section in the bill that eliminates the circuit breaker tax credit for renters. While the elimination of the circuit breaker credit for renters might seem reasonable given that the circuit breaker credit was initially established as a way to ease the burden of increases in property taxes for senior citizens on ixed income, like so many programs it has morphed over the years

to provide relief for renters whose rent might be affected by increases in property taxes.

An analysis of data provided by the Missouri Department of Revenue reveals that more than 100,000 Missouri citizens who are renters received $55,160,331 dollars in circuit breaker tax credits in 2010. In comparison, more than 106,000 property owners received circuit breaker credits.

A closer look at the impact of the circuit breaker tax credit program for renters in the legislative districts in North St. Louis puts the impact on lowincome people into perspective. The number of renters participating in the program in the 57th District is 1,840, while the number of home owners is 742. In the 58th District renters using the credit total 2,259, compared to 168 homeowners receiving circuit tax credit relief. These drastic differences in renters vs homeowners follow the same pattern in the three other North St. Louis districts. In the 60th District, there are 2,696 renters and 1,046 owners; the 61st District has 1,015 rent-

ers vs 273 owners; and the 63rd District has 1,354 renters vs 162 owners. In all, more than 14,000 city renters took advantage of the circuit breaker tax credit in 2010. The irony of this controversy is that the idea of eliminating the tax credit came from the special committee appointed by Governor Jay Nixon to study the impact of tax credits in the state of Missouri. It is hard for the EYE to fathom that state legislators would support the elimination of a credit that helps the poorest of its constituents. The furor behind the elimination of this tax credit has prompted one Republican senator to introduce a bill that would eliminate the credit through a six-year phase out. That’s better for these struggling citizens than nothing. However, the representatives elected from North St. Louis have united on this issue and are pulling support among Democrats. Those who don’t want the circuit breaker tax credit to become a deal breaker – which must not happen – need to ind a way to preserve this modest tax relief for needy citizens.

Judge George W. Draper, Joe D. Jacobson and Judge Michael W. Manners are the three nominess Gov. Jay Nixon has to choose from in illing the vacancy on the Missouri Supreme Court left by the retirement of Judge Michael A. Wolff.

Deltas hold Fall retreat

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., St. Louis Alumnae Chapter will hold its Annual Fall Retreat on Friday, September 9 and Saturday, September 10 at the Marriott St. Louis, Airport. The theme is “Inspiring Sisters to Reconnect.”

The Retreat will begin on Friday evening with a “Welcome Event” that promises to be an exciting evening of merriment and fellowship. Saturday’s activities will include Rejuvenating Workshops, an Inspirational Breakfast, a Motivational Luncheon and will conclude

with a Reconnection Dinner.

Deltas active and inactive are welcome and are encouraged to attend what will be a most significant, edifying, and enriched DELTA experience.

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., is a non-profit public service organization dedicated to academic excellence, social welfare and cultural enrichment. For additional information contact Quintella Ivory, Retreat Chair, at quentellaivory@hotmail.com or Lisa Jones at Strauther@hotmail. com.

Phyllis Wheatley Branch turns 100

An early membership meeting of the YWCA Phyllis Wheatley Branch. A series of celebrations to commemorate the branch’s 100th anniversary begins with A Journey Recognition 3 p.m. Sept. 25, at Centennial Christian Church, 4950 Fountain Ave.

YWCA celebrates anniversary with three events

Special to The American

In 1911 St. Louis was segregated by custom and by law. Yet, a persistence of spirit led a group of visionary AfricanAmerican women to start a YWCA branch to address the particular needs of AfricanAmerican girls, women and the community in which they lived. Administering its day-to-day operations was the Committee on Administration.

The establishment of the Phyllis Wheatley Branch was groundbreaking: The only other cities with black branches were New York City; Poughkeepsie, NY; St. Paul, Minn., and Dayton, Ohio.

One hundred years later, the Phyllis Wheatley Branch name is etched in the minds of the African-American community and continues to be imprinted on the buildings of the local YWCA headquarters and the Phyllis Wheatley Heritage Center, a state-of-the-art multipurpose event venue.

The Committee on Administration is sponsoring a series of celebrations to commemorate the legacy of the branch. The anniversary theme is “Honoring the Past, Focusing on the Future: Empowered, Encouraged and Enriched.”

A Journey Recognition will be held from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sept. 25, at Centennial Christian Church, at 4950 Fountain Ave., to pay homage to legacy leaders.

A Poems, Prose & Poetry event, featuring poetic expressions dedicated to the anniversary theme, will be hosted at 8 p.m. Sept. 30 at the Phyllis Wheatley Heritage Center, 2711 Locust St.

The 100th Anniversary Gala Dinner will be held at 6 p.m. December 10 also at the heritage center. The anniversary dinner is the only event with an attached fee of $60.

The Committee On Administration legacy thrives as well. The organization has served the YWCA continuously since

its 1911 founding. The group supports YWCA programs and champions the Transitional Housing Program for homeless women. The group also sponsors the annual Alberta E. Gantt Valentine Fashion Luncheon, the longest-running fundraising event of the YWCA.

Ruth Johnson was introduced to the YWCA as a teen. She was involved in what is now the YW-Teens program that promotes self-awareness and teen empowerment. Johnson, president of the Committee on Administration, said “We want to make the community aware of the role the branch has played in history for 100 years and that its continues to do so. We want to take a trip down memory lane and expose this generation to today’s YWCA.”

The Wheatley Branch was a beloved jewel in the AfricanAmerican community, providing a meeting place for fellowship, education, recreation and “respectable” temporary housing. It was located in the

middle of the black community within Mill Creek Valley and stood as a testament to black pride, hope, aspirations and achievements.

“They challenged the status quo and exhibited courage and leadership,” said Frankie Muse Freeman, speaking of the branch organizers. “And today, as then, the contributions and dedication of the Committee on Administration is unparalleled.” Freeman was the first woman to be appointed to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights and was the attorney who won the landmark case against the St. Louis Housing Authority in 1955 that ended segregation in public housing. She was recently honored with the NAACP Spingarn Medal Award. For more information about the Phyllis Wheatley Branch, how to sign up as a performer for the evening of poetry or for anniversary dinner tickets, call 314-531-1115 or visit, www. ywcastlouis.org.

Ribbon cutting for Workforce Innovation

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon jokes with St. Louis Community College Board

President Melissa Hatman and Chancellor Myrtle Dorsey during a ribbon cutting for the new Center for Workforce Innovation at the Florissant Valley campus in Hazelwood, Missouri on August 29. The new 32,000-square-foot facility will serve more than 500 students annually teaching training programs including a pre-employment program from Boeing from the St. Louis Aerospace Institute.

UPI/Bill Greenblatt

BUSINESS

The Clifton Davis’“Say Amen”Gala All-Stars celebrate a stellar benefit:“Amen”TV series actor Clifton Davis;club alumnus and professional recording artist Jamie “King James”Dennis;Cameron Hollway,editorial director, STLhighschoolsports.com;Maritz Vice President Dan McFadden;Mathews-Dickey Board Chairman and Greater Mount Carmel Missionary Baptist Church Pastor the Rev.Earl Nance Jr.;Keith Williamson,senior vice president,corporate secretary and general counsel,Centene Corporation;Barbara A.Washington,vice president,public relations and special events,Mathews-Dickey Boys’& Girls’Club;Ameren’s Chairman,President and CEO Tom Voss;and the president,CEO and co-founder of the Mathews-Dickey Boys’& Girls’Club,Martin Luther Mathews.

Ameren donates $206.8K to Mathews-Dickey

CEO

Tom Voss chairs 2011

‘Say Amen’gala to support

Special to The American Mathews-Dickey Boys’& Girls’Club recently celebrated the education program’s silver anniversary with a $206,833.40 check presentation.

Clifton Davis “Say Amen” Benefit Gala chair Tom Voss, Ameren Corporation’s chairman, president and CEO, bestowed the gift to the club’s President, CEO and CoFounder Martin Luther Mathews on August 20 at the Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark. “No organization deserves our support more than Mathews-Dickey,” said Voss. “We’re proud to support this legacy of pro-

By Eli Markham For The St.Louis American

There

PEOPLEON THE MOVE

Teisha Ashford, principal of Holman Middle School, is among those being honored this year in the 30 Leaders in Their 30s Award program by North County Inc. The award recognizes North County leaders in their 30s who are making a significant positive impact on the North County community through their profession and/or community involvement. Ashford has served in the Pattonville School District since 2004 and was named principal of Holman in 2008.

Steven C. Roberts, president & CEO of Roberts Hotel Group, to be a featured speaker at the Crittenden Real Estate Finance Conference in South Beach, Fla., September 18 – 20. He will speak on “Trends in the Hotel Industry” as hundreds of real estate professionals gather for dealmaking and networking. Roberts Hotel Group has a portfolio of 11 properties, including Choice,Wyndham, Marriott, and InterContinental hotel brands, as well as self-branded boutiques hotels.

club programs

“No organization deserves our support more than MathewsDickey.”

– Tom Voss,Ameren Corporation’s chairman,president and CEO

viding quality recreational and educational programs focused on respect, restraint and responsibility.” Mathews expressed thanks on behalf of the

club and the youth it supports.

“Hats off to Mr. Voss, Civic Progress and all our event supporters for helping us reach our fund-raising goal,” said Mathews. “These funds will help us sustain our yearlong computer training, tutoring, leadership and career development programming for 600-plus young men and women.”

NewsChannel 5 “Today in St. Louis” anchor Art Holliday and KMOX Radio’s “Overnight in America” Host Jon Grayson presided over the awards program, with preconcert entertainment by Collage and

Clay supports Obama in jobs crisis

By Chris King Of The St.Louis American

U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay (D–Mo.) recently opened Better Family Life’s first Pathways Out of Poverty Green Jobs Symposium with a call for both major political parties to put partisanship aside and focus on job creation as a matter of great national urgency.

“In my 28 years in public service, I have never seen the need for jobs as urgent as it is today,” Clay said. He referenced high unemployment numbers, especially in the black community.

“While the national unemployment rate hovers around 9 percent, more than 16 percent of African Americans are looking for work,” Clay said.

“Much pain is behind those numbers, including a failed system of urban education, too little investment in worker retraining, a tax policy that still rewards corporations who outsource good American jobs over-

seas, and the very real legacy of inequality and exclusion that perpetuates a lack of diversity in the economic life of our nation.”

The Green Jobs symposium, which Better Family Life, Inc. convened at the Metropolitan Training and Education Center in Wellston, brought together over 70 local elected officials, state legislators, labor leaders and community activists to form a united front to combat urban employment that has reached crisis levels.

“My fight is about jobs for this community, where the pain is great and the hardships are so widespread,” Clay said.“The truth is that when urban communities hurt, America hurts.And what elevates us lifts up the entire nation.”

The crisis-level unemployment statistics are just one of many indicators that the economy remains slow to recover from the

Marilyn Drew-Long has been named regional vice president of operations for the four Everest College campuses throughout the Dallas and Fort Worth areas and one campus in Springfield, Mo. Long will focus on long-range planning, employee development and regulatory compliance, as well as fostering relationships with community leaders and regulatory agencies. She joined Everest six years ago as an adjunct instructor and has been academic dean and campus president.

Dr. SalvadorCruz-Flores, professor of neurology at St. Louis University School of Medicine, has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the American Heart Association, Midwest Affiliate. Dr. Cruz will help further the association’s mission to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke through oversight of local revenue generation and health impact activities. He also serves as director of the Souers Stroke Institute and the Mid America Stroke Network.

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Edward Jones Diversity CareerFairon Sept. 27

Financial-services firm Edward Jones will host a diversity career fair from 4:30 to 7 :30 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 27, at the firm’s headquarters, 12555 Manchester Rd. in Des Peres, part of its Inclusion and Diversity Week. Edward Jones offers St. Louis-based opportunities in finance, internal audit, service, information systems, marketing, operations, human resources, training and development and compliance – as well as financial advisor and branch office administrator roles in St. Louis and nationally.

“The Diversity Career Fair is a unique opportunity to meet Edward Jones associates and leaders and learn more about the exciting careers available at the firm,” said Emily Pitts, Edward Jones’principal responsible for inclusion and diversity. At 5 p.m. that evening, Edward Jones’principal responsible for human resources, Anthony McBride, will speak. RSVPfor the event and submit a resume at STLCareers@edwardjones.com.

Kwame completes Harris-Stowe residence hall, dining facility

Kwame Building Group has completed work on a new $15 million freshman residence hall and dining facility at Harris-Stowe State University that was dedicated in honor of former St. Louis Mayor Freeman Bosley Jr. Ablack-owned business based in St. Louis, Kwame managed the yearlong construction project and currently serves as program manager for all Harris-Stowe capital improvement projects. Grice Group Architects and Trivers Associates Architects provided architectural services. K&S Associates was the general contractor. The new, four-story residence hall will house up to 200 students in single- and double-bedroom suites with furnished living rooms, kitchenettes, dining areas and private bathrooms.

Steven C. Roberts

Teisha Ashford

Marilyn Drew-Long

Dr. Salvador Cruz-Flores

Photo by Leon Algee

Lewis Carroll, the author of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, once said, “If you don’t know where you’re going, any road will get you there.” This is certainly true when it comes to investing: If you don’t know where you’re headed financially, then it is not as vital which investments make up your portfolio. If you do have a monetary destination in mind, then asset allocation becomes very important.

The term “asset allocation” is often tossed around in discussions of investing. But what exactly is it? Simply put, asset allocation is about not putting all your eggs in one basket. More formally, it is a systematic approach to diversification that may help youdetermine

ECONOMY

Continued from B1 tax revenue. State governments across the country will be forced to cut local jobs –teachers, state troopers and nurses – to balance their budgets. So will municipal governments. Hundreds of thousands of laid-off state and city employees will join the 14 million already on the unemployment rolls. But one group is doing better than ever: corporations. By the third quarter of 2010, non-financial corporate profits had recovered to $776

CLAY

What is asset allocation?

the most efficient mix of assets based on your risk tolerance and time horizon. Asset allocation seeks to manage investment risk by diversifying a portfolio among the major asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, and cash alternatives. Each asset class has a different level of risk and potential return. At any given time, while one asset category may be increasing in value, another may be decreasing in value.Diversificationis a method to help manage investment risk.Assetallocation and diversification do not guarantee against loss. So if the value of one asset class or security drops, the other asset classes or securities may help cushion the blow.

billion, or 5.3 percent of GDP – the highest level since the dot-com bubble. Profits for large corporations have recovered more quickly and more strongly than any other part of the economy. Businesses that pay minimum wages are especially profitable right now. Wal-Mart, McDonalds, Sodexo, Yum Brands (the operator of Pizza Hut, KFC, Taco Bell and other fast food chains) and Target all made greater profits last year than they averaged from 2002 to 2006. Why are corporations making record profits but not hiring new workers? It’s an economic problem: lack of

Continued from B1 recession precipitated by the bursting of the housing bubble and the debacle that ensued, with poorly regulated mortgage-backed securities bringing down the banking and financial sectors.

“The reasons for this slow recovery are many. And they are part of a broader, much more complex problem – when some elected officials put their politics ahead of their country,” Clay said.

PERSONAL FINANCE

By Charles Ross

Dividing your investments in this way may help you ride out market fluctuations and protect your portfolio from a major loss in any one asset class. Of course, it is also important to understand the risk versus return tradeoff. Generally, the greater the potential return of an investment, the greater the risk. As a result, the makeup of a portfolio should be based on your risk tolerance. Generally,

Charles Ross

you should not place all your assets in those categories that have the highest potential for gain if you are concerned about the prospect of a loss. It is essential to find a balance of asset classes with the highest potential return for your risk profile. Other factors that areimportantto developing an asset allocation strategy are your investment goals and time horizon. When you are consid-

demand.

The average American has over $10,000 in debt. Their house value has plummeted, and they see no chance of getting a pay raise in the near future. As a result, they’re not likely to spend a lot of money. Businesses know that, so they aren’t investing in new technology or new employees. Instead they’re just hoarding cash, waiting for the day when consumers start spending again. But consumers aren’t going to start spending again until businesses start hiring and raising wages. It’s a classic collective action problem. Everyone –including the corporations –

“When Congress returns, all of us should focus on how to simultaneously makeinvestments that are going togrow jobs while we put everything on the table to reduce spending in an honest and open way.”

Clay and his fellow members of the U.S. House returned to work on Wednesday. Clay spoke as if hopeful that Congress will wrest the agenda away from Republicans who have man-

would be better off if they started hiring again, but each business is maximizing its own short-term profits by being thrifty. Their hoarding has put the economy in a hole. This was the same problem America faced during the Great Depression, and the government solved it with a massive fiscal stimulus. The government paid people to build bridges and tunnels and dams, which then gave them money to go out and spend. Unfortunately conservatives in Congress have decided to focus on the debt instead of the economy – the equivalent of mowing the lawn while your roof is on fire – and the large

aged to elevate the debt ceiling and spending cuts as the major issues facing the nation, despite catastrophic unemployment numbers and a moribund economy.

“In the coming months, we will ask wealthy Americans who have done extremely well, to put something in the pot too,” Clay said.

ering how to diversify your portfolio, ask yourself what you want to accomplish with your investments. Are you planning to buy a new car or house soon? Do you aspire to pay for your children’s college education? When retirement rolls around, would you like to travel and buy a vacation home?These factors should all be considered when outlining an asset allocation strategy. If you require a specific amount of money at a point in the near future, you might want to consider a strategy that involves less risk. On the other hand, if you are saving for retirement and have several years until you will need the funds, you might be able to invest for greater growth

fiscal stimulus the country needs faces strong opposition in the House of Representatives. State governments, most of which are constitutionally mandated to run a balanced budget, are likewise unable to spend. But there’s a policy tool that costs the government nothing and could get the economy moving again: the minimum wage. The Economic Policy Institute estimates that President Obama’s 2008 campaign proposal to raise the minimum wage to $9.50 by 2011 would have generated more than $60 billion in new consumer spending.

“We can’t balance this budget on the backs of seniors, working people, at-risk children and minorities, who have already borne the worst of this recession.This is a time for shared sacrifice by all.”

potential, although this will also involve greater risks. Whichever asset allocation scenario you decide on, it’s important to remember that there is no one strategy that fits every type of investor. Your specific situation calls for a specific approach with which you are comfortable and one thatcould help you pursue your investment goals.

Without some help, American workers can’t get themselves out of this hole, and each month we delay sees greater numbers of American workers losing their employment, more families depending on low-wage jobs, and greater numbers of American children going hungry.

If we want to help Main Street recover, we should raise the minimum wage. Even if we are politically unable to do so at the federal level, raising the minimum wage state by state would still make a great difference.

Markham is a researcher with The National Employment Law Project.

Unlike some of his colleagues in the Congressional Black Caucus, however, Clay did not question the leadership of President Barack Obama in navigating the jobs crisis.

“I support President Obama’s pro-jobs, pro-growth agenda to help America outinnovate,out-educate and outbuild therest of the world,” Clay said. “And that’s why green jobs, and the St. Louis Green Impact Zone is so important.”

“Have you checked out the Rams’schedule this year? It’s freaking brutal.”

– Anthony Stalter, Washington Post

THE LOCAL LINE

With Earl Austin Jr.

On the ‘Ball’ in Wisconsin

Wentzville product scores four for Badgers

By Earl Austin Jr.

the St.Louis American

Several college football players from the St. Louis area enjoyed excellent performances during the opening weekend of the 2011 season.

Former Wentzville Timberland star Montee Ball got things going last Thursday night with a four-touchdown performance to lead Wisconsin to a 51-17 victory over UNLV in a nationally-televised game in Madison, WI. After losing 25 pounds in the offseason, Ball checked in at a svelte 205 pounds. He rushed for 64 yards on 10 carries and scored three touchdowns. He also had two catches for 67 yards and another touchdown.

As a sophomore, Ball rushed for 996 yards and 18 touchdowns while averaging 6.1 yards per carry. He rushed for 132 yards and two touchdowns in Wisconsin’s 21-17 loss to TCU in the Rose Bowl.

University of Iowa senior Marvin McNutt (Hazelwood Central) got his last season of college football started the right way with six receptions for 140 yards and two touchdowns in the Hawkeyes 34-7 victory over Tennessee Tech. Apair of local running backs who just graduated from high school last season enjoyed very successful collegiate debuts. Oregon State’s Malcolm Agnew (DeSmet) rushed for 223 yards on 33 carries and scored three touchdowns in the Beavers’2928 loss to Sacramento State. Agnew won the job as the Beavers’starting tailback during fall workouts. Agnew made a little history in the process as he became the first true freshman tailback to start his first game at Oregon State. He was also the first true freshman tailback to rush for more than 200 yards in a game.

Anthony Pierson (East St. Louis) gained 73 yards on just five carries and scored a touchdown for Kansas in the Jayhawks’victory over McNeese State.

The Mike Jones era at Lincoln University began with a bang as the Blue Tigers defeated Avila University 35-3 in their home opener in Jefferson City. Jones played with the St. Louis Rams and was the former head coach at Hazelwood East High. Lincoln U. will be coming to St. Louis to play in the St. Louis Gateway Classic on Sept. 24 at the Edward Jones Dome.

Former Wentzville Timberland star Montee Ball got things going last Thursday night with a fourtouchdown performance to lead Wisconsin to a 51-17 victory over UNLV in a nationally-televised game in Madison,WI.

Eyes on CBC

Cadets make early statement with two opening victories

By Earl Austin Jr.

Of The St.Louis American

The CBC Cadets have made an early statement that they will be one of the top Class 6 teams to watch in the area this season. That statement came in Week 1 when the Cadets defeated highly-regarded Fort Zumwalt West 52-49 on the road. The Cadets followed up that huge win with a lopsided 640 victory over Francis Howell Central. The Cadets are explosive and they have a lot of weapons. Senior quarterback Dalton Demos has thrown four touchdown passes while the talented backfield pair of Jonathan Parker and Antonio Brown have scored five touch-

PREP FOOTBALL NOTEBOOK

With Earl Austin Jr.

down each. CBC will face another big test on Saturday night when they play Metro Catholic Conference rival DeSmet at the Great America Football Classic at the Edward Jones Dome. Chaminade College Prep senior Dixon Anthon has had to fill some very large shoes as the Red Devils starting tailback. Those large shoes belong to former star tailback Rob Standard, who graduated last season as the St. Louis

Earl Austin Jr.

area’s all-time leading rusher. So far, so good for Anthon, who has put up some impressive numbers in the first two weeks of the season. Anthon scored five touchdowns in Chaminade’s openingweek victory over Riverview Gardens. He followed up by rushing for 179 yards and three touchdowns in a 54-6 victory over Roosevelt. In two weeks, Anthon has scored eight touchdowns. East St. Louis rebounded nice-

RAMS ROUNDUP

With Palmer L.Alexander III

What a difference a coach makes

Steve Spagnuolo moves Rams away from inept Linehan era

The Rams had the perfect pre-season. They had a 4-0 record for starters, and there were no major injuries to key players. There were plenty of spirited battles at every position, including the back-up quarterback position.

The Rams’ unblemished exhibition record means more than one would think.It shows the growth of this franchise over the last three years.

The Rams’unblemished exhibition record means more than one would think. It shows the growth of this franchise over the last three years. There was never a time during the Scott Linehan era that the St. Louis Rams looked and played the part of a competent football team. There were no fierce battles for competition on the field. The only battles were only among us media members on who’s first in line for pulled barbeque chicken, baked beans and potato salad.

I recall back in the spring of 2007, as a guest on PrimeTime Sports, host Randy Gardener asked me what do I think the Rams record would be at the end of that season. I said, “They’d be lucky if the finished 3-13.” They finished that season 2-14. So, the Rams took a different approach. They could’ve made a play for Rex Ryan after the Linehan/Jim Haslett debacle. But, they courted Steve Spagnuolo, and four years after I made those remarks about the former embattled inept head

See RAMS, B5

won bronze and silver medals in the women’s 100 metres hurdles at the 13th IAAF World Athletics Championships on September 3 in Daegu,South Korea.

East St.Louis rebounded nicely from its opening season loss to defeat Gardner-Edgerton (KS) 34-20 in the featured game of the East St.Louis City of Champions Classic.

ly from its opening season loss in Georgia to defeat GardnerEdgerton (KS) 34-20 in the featured game of the East St. Louis City of Champions Classic last Sunday at Jordan Stadium in East

Of

Dawn Harper and Danielle Carruthers of Team USA

It has been quite a time for the Rams since that last game in Seattle that cost them a playoff spot. After a draft lockout and four preseason games, here come the Rams, ready or not. In the past few days in my travels about town, the talk has turned from the Cardinals being done to what do you think about the Rams? People are overwhelmingly optimistic and that concerns me, as most of the support comes from a meaningless preseason that saw the Rams go undefeated. Nice, real nice, the Rams won some games that neither team was game-planning for.

I wonder how good they are. I have heard and read that

Rams: 6-10 if they’re lucky

CLAIB’S CALL

With Mike Claiborne

they are improved. Really? Oh, they cut Donnie Avery, Mardy Gillard and George Selvie, to name a few, and they are supposed to be better. Not long these guys were top draft picks for the Rams, ranging from rounds one to five. All gone after three seasons or less. So if the team is improved and these guys were taken in early rounds when the team

was really bad, how do we really know if the new players are better?

Remember, the same people who drafted and coached these other guys are now telling us that these new players should be better. I have two standing wagers that the Rams will be at least 8-8. I thought they meant they were going to win eight games over two seasons, and they corrected me and said it would hap-

pen this season. At that point, I was all over that bet. This time the urgency to win has overcome some. I even had someone remind me of the year that the Rams were dismissed, and they went on to win the Super Bowl. I remind them that team had more skill going into the season and they were going to be better. I also remind them of Haley’s Comet and its infrequent passing by the planet Earth.

If I sound a bit crusty about the season, then maybe I looked at the schedule and asked where were the wins going to come from?

Philadelphia, Giants, Baltimore, Washington, Green Bay, Dallas, New Orleans?

One, maybe two wins out of those seven.

Funny thing is, the only ones talking about their September predictions in January are those who have done well. Have you ever heard a guy on talk radio after his team went 3-13 talk about that 9-7 prediction he made?

No problem here, as I am quite comfortable in saying the Rams will go at best 6-10. Yes, I said it, 6-10. Tougher schedule, too many new faces and the lack of tested depth will do the Rams in.

Talking in football tongues

When I am watching or listening to a football game, whenever I hear an analyst talking in “football tongues” I turn the sound down, change the channel or just turn it off. I am amazed that so many former players who turned broadcaster talk as if each viewer and listener were handed the same playbook they were when they played.

While I get most of what they say, I find it comical that this is their security blanket –to give you jargon and verbiage that make them sound like an expert and you are not. Here is a news flash: the game has not changed that much. Terminology has changed but

the plays have not, so why act as if you have discovered the new world? If you are going to use the terms, then explain them. Football is not that complicated. As John Madden once said, “There is no such thing as a dumb football player playing in the NFLbecause dumb football players can’t play.” The same can be fot the fan who really pays attention. The more verbiage, the more insecure the analyst seems to be.

Net loss

If you know me, you know

I do not need a reason to watch Serena Williams on or off the court. It is the only reason I watch the U.S. Open, let alone any tennis match at length, as the rest of America is missing in action. The so-called child phenoms are getting their rackets and much more handed to them these days, and there is no relief in sight. The American women have a few hopefuls but it seems they take too long to get to the main stage, and by the time they do it is time for them to retire. As for the men, why bother?

Mike Claiborne

Donnie Avery caught his last pass for the Rams.

When James Hall first got to the Rams, you’d be satisfied if he was able to get you anywhere between 5-7 sacks a year. Today,can you imagine what the Rams’ front four would be like without him?

FOOTBALL

Continued from B3

St. Louis. Standout quarterback Lamontiez Ivy tossed three touchdown passes while freshman Naeteres Strong rushed for 90 yards and a touchdown in his high school debut.

On tap this weekend

WebsterGroves (2-0) at SLUH (1-1), Friday, 7 p.m. –

Two of the area’s most prolific offenses will be on display in this non-conference.

Quarterbacks Rayshawn Simmons (Webster Groves) and Trevor McDonough (SLUH) are two of the best in the St. Louis area.

Great American Football Classic, Friday-Saturday (Edward Jones Dome) – The annual football classic will feature 12-area teams in six games over the weekend at the

RAMS

Continued from B3

coach of this franchise, the Rams are on the move.

Now, I’m starting to see what made Spagnuolo the Rams main choice. Spagnuolo was the brains behind the championship New York Giants football team that took down the vaunted New England Patriots three seasons ago.

He really is a players coach. When James Hall first got to the Rams, you’d be satisfied if he was able to get you anywhere between 5-7 sacks a year. Today, can you imagine what the Rams’front four would be like without him? In the Rams’last pre-season game when he tweaked his back, there was a collective sigh of relief from us all when he rebounded.

That’s why I feel this is the year when we find out if the Rams are for real. The moral victories don’t count. The Rams will never be pampered like the baseball team here. But, when the Rams are clicking and on top, the baseball team has to share the spotlight.

This is a rabid football town. And a winning professional football team can be the toast of the town. It can very well be. Take at look at where the Rams are now from 10 years ago. The names have changed. The sizzle may not be there. However, that buzz has returned. And maybe soon the Rams can wash the toast down with a bottle of champagne.

P.S. Get on the bandwagon now.

Any questions or comments, email me at Livnlegend@hotmail.com.

Dome. The metro east will take center stage on Friday night with a Southwestern Conference double-header. Belleville East will take on Granite City at 5:45 p.m., followed by O’Fallon and Belleville West at 8 p.m. On Saturday, Suburban North Conference rivals McCluer North and Pattonville will open things up at 10:30 p.m. They will be followed by Eureka vs. Marquette at 1:15 p.m. and Wentzville Holt and Francis Howell Central at 4 p.m. The finale will feature Metro Catholic Conference rivals CBC and DeSmet in a conference showdown at 6:45 p.m. Both teams are currently 2-0. CBC is averaging a whopping 58 points per game while DeSmet has victories over Hazelwood Central and Hazelwood East.

MICDS (2-0) at John Burroughs (2-0), Saturday, 2:30 p.m. – Long-time ABC rivals MICDS and John Burroughs will hook up in a battle of two of the area’s top

small-school programs.

Hazelwood East (1-1) at Jefferson City (2-0), Friday, 7 p.m. – Spartans travel to Mid-Missouri in a battle of long-time Show-Me State powers.

Kirkwood (1-0) at Hazelwood Central (1-1), Saturday, 1 p.m. – Non-conference showdown between two teams with great tradition.

Gateway Tech (1-0) vs. Vashon (1-1), Saturday, 1 p.m. (at Sumner) – Public High League battle between two teams that qualified for the playoffs last season.

Fort Zumwalt West (1-1) at Bentonville (Ark.), Friday, 7 p.m. – Jaguars travel South for their annual tilt against Arkansas state power.

AMEREN

Continued from B1

Outstanding Club Alumnus Jamie “King James” Dennis. The 2011 award slate included two top memorial honors and 10 youth and adult volunteer accolades.

The Bill Maritz Award was bestowed upon Donald M. Suggs, president and publisher, St. Louis American, and the Benjamin F. Edwards III honor went to Frank Viverito, president of the St. Louis Sports Commission.

Other honorees were: Academic Scholars — Tiffanie

Toles, 17, and Jaylen Wilson, 16; Outstanding Computer Literacy Instruction Program (CLIP) Volunteers — Edward Jones’Sharon Jacobs and Centene’s Willie Thomas; Outstanding Tutor Volunteers — the late Obiora Chikeleze and the St. Louis Public Schools’Erica McAdoo; Outstanding Youth Volunteers — Eriyon Bailey, 16, and Charlie Soffner, 12; and Scholar Athletes — Ronald Harris, III, 18, and Jaidah Stewart, 12.

“Say Amen” has generated more than $2 million since its inception, in support of the Club’s Volunteer Tutorial, CLIP, “The Sky is the Limit” and “Maleness to Manhood Workshop Series” career and leadership training for Club members and students from 20-plus school districts. Headline 2011 sponsors were Ameren and Centene Corporation.Other sponsors included Anheuser-Busch, Inc., Centric Group, Engelhardt Family Foundation, KMOX Radio, NewsChannel 5 and the St. Louis Post-Dispatch The all-star evening also featured actor and the Rev. Clifton Davis, and a soulful, R&B concert by award-winning recording artist A’ngela Winbush.

Clifton Davis “Say Amen”Benefit Gala chair Tom Voss,Ameren Corporation’s chairman,president and CEO,bestows a $206,833.40 check to Mathews-Dickey President, CEO and Co-Founder Martin Luther Mathews.Left to right:NewsChannel 5’s Art Holliday,KMOX Radio’s Jon Grayson,Mathews and Voss.

Photo by Leon Algee

History is a trip in Memphis

Heritage meets music in a goodtime Southern city

By Cassandra Teague-Walker and Cass Teague

For The St. Louis American

Much of the rich heritage of Memphis, Tennessee’s largest city, surrounds the Beale Street Historic District, three blocks of night clubs, specialty shops, galleries and restaurants.

The music and entertainment pulse of downtown Memphis, Beale Street at the turn of the 20th century served as a haven for African Americans migrating from small towns, where legendary greats such as W.C. Handy, B.B. King, Rufus Thomas and Isaac Hayes showcased their talents.

Facing History and Ourselves is bringing its nationally acclaimed multimedia exhibition, Choosing to Participate, to the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library at 3030 Poplar Avenue, through November 30. The free exhibit examines the impact and history of bigotry and injustice, inspiring conversation about the choices we make every day to foster civic engagement, tolerance, and mutual understanding in our communities.

The National Civil Rights Museum, chronicling the Civil Rights Movement from slavery to present-day human rights movements, is at 450 Mulberry St., Memphis, site of the former Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. Call 901-521-9699.

POTPOURRI WITH DANA GRACE

‘Vagabonds’ of Barbados and St. Louis

dream of studying Chinese culture, arts and language; Laura plans to return to the States next year luent in several Chinese dialects. Minzu University is touted as the top University in China, especially for ethnic minorities. I am sure this will be a rewarding experience for Laura! St. Louis NAACP County and City chapters hosted a reception in honor

of Frankie Muse Freeman, Esq. on August 20. The event was planned to recognize Atty. Freeman as the 2011 recipient of the NAACP’s prestigious

organiza-

Bearden, Ringold, Lawrence among 54 Af-Am artists in UMSL exhibit

staff African-American artists respond to the American South in the exhibit “Southern Journeys: African American Artists of the South” which opens today (Sept. 8) and stays up until Oct. 1 in Gallery 210 at the

led by local guitar legend

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

“Well … name the band Dirty Muggs, baby,” Garry “Dee Dee” James said, impersonating his former boss –funk legend Bootsy Collins – in his trademark tone. It was Collins’ way of giving his blessing when DeeDee revealed he was returning home to start a band in St. Louis. “I don’t know what it means, but people laugh when they hear it,” James admitted. “Bootsy gives you a

name, and the name takes on a personality of itself.” Collins dubbed Kenneth Edmonds “Babyface” back when the singer/ songwriter was with The Deal – and the rest is history. And when James was on the road as Collins’ lead guitar player, Bootsy would say, “Come here, Dirty Muggs” as James’ cue for a solo. As he steps back from more than 20 years as one of the most soughtSee MUGGS, C4

Spingarn Medal. Atty. Freeman was awarded the medal on July 28 at the

Dirty Muggs starts the St. Louis American Foundation’s Salute afterparty jams at 9:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 16 at America’s Center Ballroom.

Dr. Pam Jackson, Lynne Fiddmont and her daughter Alana after an Island dinner and show in Barbados-West Indies. (P.J. & L.F. were celebrating their B-Days in the Caribbean Paradise). Photo provided by Dr. Pam Jackson

Dana G. Randolph See POTPOURRI, C4

Louis.

W.C. Handy House Museum, 352 Beale St., captures the lavor of old Beale Street at the Memphis home of one of the fathers of the blues.

“Doll” by Nina Buxenbaum

“Sepia Love Song” by Radcliffe Bailey

“Garden Falling Star” by Romare Bearden

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

Sat., Sept. 17, 7:30 p.m., Superstars of Soul starring El DeBarge, The Isley Brothers, Keith Sweat and After7, Chaifetz Arena. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com orcall (314) 534-1111.

Sat., Sept. 17, 7:30 p.m., Joe McPhee’s Survival Unit III, The Kranzberg Arts Center, 501 N. Grand. For more information, e-mail, newmusiccircle.stl@gmail.com

Sat., Sept. 24, 7 p.m., Chris Brown, Verizon Wireless Amphitheater.

Sat., Sept. 17, 2 p.m. & 5 p.m., Yo Gabba Gabba, The Fox Theatre. For more information, call (314) 534-1111 or visit www.metrotix.com

Sat., Sept. 29, 7:30 p.m., Uplifting rapperLupe Fiasco brings a collection of alternative hip-hop hits to Chaifetz Arena. Tickets go on-sale on Thursday, September 1 at 10 a.m.at MetroTix.com, charge by phone at 314-534-1111 and the Chaifetz Arena Box Office.

Oct. 6- Oct. 8, Gentleman Jack & Leisure Studies presents the inaugural Lola STL Music Fest, over three days Lola will host the best regional and national funk, soul, hip hop artists with special bites and drinks for the new annual event with guests that include Diamond D and Fatlip of Pharcyde and Van Hunt. Lola. For more information visit www. welovelola.com

Oct. 16, 6 p.m., Scream Tour 10th Anniversary starring Mindless Behaviorand Diggy Simmons with special guests The New Boyz, Jacob Latimore, Hamilton Park and introducing the OMG Girlz, The Fox Theatre. Tickets on sale Sept. 17 at 10 a.m. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com or call (314) 534-1111.

local gigs

Sept. 10, See the Greatest Show UnderEarth every Saturday in Septemberat Brennan’s in the Central West End. The Black and White Band turned it out in July and August and they are back by popular demand! 4659 Maryland Place. Call (314) 337-8087.

Wed., Sept. 14, 6 p.m. Lexus Len’s Jazz Happy Hour, 2 for 1 Drinks 6-8pm, Jazz Band 79:30pm, featuring: Under The Influence, The Loft, 3112 Olive.

Thurs., Sept. 17, 3 p.m., Trio Tres Bien and Danita in concert, Scruggs Memorial Church, 3600 Cook AveSt. Louis Mo.

Sept. 25, 7 p.m. (6 p.m.) AList Band SummerNights Concert Series featuring live music Live Music R&B, Motown, Blues and Jazz, Quintessential Dining & Nightlife 149 North Main St. St. Charles, MO. For more information, call (314) 5171995.

special events

Fri., Sept. 9, 9 p.m., Work/Play and Secret Sound Society are joining forces to present a Benefit how at the Handlebar. Work/Play will sell their artwork throughout the night inside while the outdoor patio hosts a show featuring some of the most promising and creative young musicians in the city. Scripts N Screwz,Teresa Jenee, and Michael Franco, The Handlebar,4127 Manchester Ave.

Sat., Sept. 10, Freedom River Walk To honorthe memory of those who died in the September11 attacks. Jefferson Barracks Park, South

CALENDAR

Trailhead on Hancock Road.

Sept. 10, 6 p.m., Jacoby Arts Centerpresents theirpremiere fundraising event, Arts & Champagne, The Jacoby Arts Center and offer a western theme of Diamonds and Denim and western food catered by POPS. Jacoby Arts Center, (618)462-5222.

Sept. 12, Are you ready for Monday night football?

Every Monday during football season at the All New Cotton Club in Kinloch. 8132 Scott Street. Free food, drinks specials and door prizes.

Wed., Sept. 14, 6 p.m., St. Louis, Backstoppers, Pattonville and Fenton Fire present Mr. Saint Louis’ upcoming fundraiserforSt. Louis Lifesaving Foundation, Lafayette Fire Company No 1.

Thurs., Sept. 15, 11:30 BMASTL’s monthly Marketing Masters Luncheon featuring keynote speakerTom Haas, CMO at Siemens Corporation, The Sheraton Clayton Plaza Hotel, 7730Bonhomme Ave.,Clayton, MO, 63105.

Sat., Sept. 17, 9 a.m., Mill Creek Annual Picnic, Heman Park.

Sat., Sept. 17, 10 a.m., MoDot Annual Show Me Safety Fair, FUN Activities PLUS Child Identification, Free Giveaways , Health Screening Games, Refreshments, Safety Interactive Demonstrations and Live Remote: Foxy 95.5 & HOT104.1, Urban League , 8960 Jennings Station Road St. Louis, MO 63136

Sept. 17, 10 a.m., The St.

Louis VAMedical Center and the City of Alton (IL) will host the annual commemorative Remembrance Ceremony in Honor of Former Prisoners of War and those still Missing in Action. The Alton (IL) Marina.

Sept. 17, 1 p.m., S.H.E.R.A.H. hosts a Pretty Party,Sabayet Community Center,4000 Maffitt Avenue, 63113. For More Information about the “Pretty Party” or to purchase tickets, visit: www.sherah.webs.com.

Mon., Sept. 19, The Miles Davis Festival pays tribute to the 85th birthday and 20yearmemorial of its favorite son, Miles Davis Dewey, III, with two jam sessions, Downtown BBs Jazz, Blues, and Soups, Featuring Willie Akins, Anthony Wiggins and Adaron Jackson Joining Mile Davis To Go Jazztet. For more information, please visit http://milesdavisfestival.com

Sat., Sept. 24, 11 a.m., U City Jazz Festival, Heman Park, For more information, visit www.ucityjazzfestival.com

Sun., September11, 2 - 5 p.m., more than 3,000 people are needed to volunteerfor the 9/11 Day of Service & Remembrance. United Way of Greater St. Louis has organized dozens of projects throughout the community for the 10th anniversary of 9/11 to pay tribute to those who were lost and those who rose in service. To find out about available projects and sign up, please contact United Way at www.stlremembers.orgor 314539-4296.

Fri., Sept. 16, 6 p.m., St. Louis American Foundation

24th Annual Salute to Excellence in Education, America’s Center. For more information, call (314) 5338000.

Thurs., Sept. 29, 6 p.m., Urban Artist Alliance for Child Development AllWhite Party Benefit with performances by Stallings, Knowledge, Xplicit, Fior Baptiste and more! For more information, e-mail keyamurdock@yahoo.com

Thurs., Sept. 29, 6 p.m., Episcopal City Mission Gala Fundraiser“Moment in Time,” Crowne Plaza Hotel, Clayton, MO. For more information, call (314) 436-3545.

Through Oct. 7, In celebration of the festival’s 20th year in St. Louis, Grand Center Inc. is seeking local and regional talent forFIRST NIGHT- St. Louis, a New Year’s Eve celebration of the arts that calls on artists of every medium to be the catalysts in creating a shared cultural celebration. For questions or to speak with a member of the First Night staff, please call Travis Howser at 314-2891507 (email travis@grandcenter.org).

Sun., Oct. 9, 2 p.m., Our Second Act Incorporated fundraiser starring Kim Massie, the Diva of blues, soul and R& B, Coco Soul and D.J.Mr. We, Robert Probstein Golf and Tennis Club House in Forest Park. Proceeds from the fundraiser will support scholarships for women over the age of 55. For more information, call (314) 875-9932.

Sat., Oct. 15, 9 a.m., City North Y’s Men and Women Club All You Can Eat Breakfast, To Support Y’s Men’s International Projects, Monsanto Family YMCA, 5555 Page Blvd.

Oct. 28 – 30, Extraordinary Events Presents its 2nd Annual Ladies Spa Retreat Weekend To Hot Springs, Arkansas. Call 314-219-4188 for more info or register online at www.sparetreatweekend. eventbrite.com.

Niecy’s Network Showcase, The showcase provides a spot for talent to shine! Fridays 8pm Klmaxx Room inside the Ambassador, 9800 Halls Ferry Road call (314)337-8087.

comedy

Fri., Oct. 28, 8 p.m., Fox Concerts presents Chris Tucker, The Fox Theatre. For more information, call (314) 534-1111 or visit www.metrotix.com.

Dec. 31, 8 p.m., New Year’s Eve Homecoming Comedy Jam Cedric The Entertainer Live featuring Malik S. Peabody Opera House. Visit www.ticketmaster.com

Sat., Sept. 10, 8 p.m., Lady Brown Entertainment presents Coffee House Open Mic Night, Not Just a Book Store, 4501 Manchester Ave. (Manchester and Taylor). For more information, call (314) 725-0040 or visit www.notjustabookstore.net.

Wed., Sept. 14, 7 p.m., St. Louis County Library Foundation presents Suspense Night 2011, The free event brings together seven suspense authors from across the country. St. Louis County Library Headquarters, 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd. The event is in partnership with the 2011 Bouchercon Convention which will be held from September 15-18 at the Renaissance Grand Hotel. Bouchercon is an annual national convention of mystery writers and readers (www.bouchercon2011.com).

Thurs., Sept. 22, 7 p.m., The St. Louis County Library Foundation and Pudd’nHead Books are pleased to present a Reading Garden Event Series program with acclaimed young adult author Margaret Peterson Haddix, who will discuss the latest installment in her Missing series, “Torn.” St. Louis Library Headquarters, 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd. Teus., Sept. 27, 7 p.m., St. Louis County Library Foundation’s Pacesetter AuthorSeries presents founderof Systems Service Enterprises, Inc. (SSE) Susan Elliott for a discussion of her memoir “Across the Divide: Navigating the Digital Revolution as a Woman, Entrepreneur, and CEO.” St. Louis County Library Headquarters, 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd.

theatre

Through Sept. 11, Mustard Seed Theatre’s 5th season opens with Falling, written by Artistic Director Deanna Jent, Black Box Theatre at Fontbonne University. For more information, or to make a reservation please visit www.mustardseedtheatre.com.

Sep. 9 – Sept. 25, Gitana Productions presents the original play Inalienable Rights: From Pearl Harbor To 911 Regional Arts Commission in the University City Loop. A panel discussion will follow the matinee performance at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, September 11, the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center.

Sept. 16 – 18, Up and Running by African playwright Martin Sophia, Shrewsbury Civic Center. 5200 Shrewsbury Road. Call (314)751-4527. Sept. 22 – Oct. 15, New Line

Yo Gabba Gabba! Live returns to the Fox.See CONCERTS for details

Theatre presents the hit Broadway musical Passing Strange. For more information, visit www.newlinetheatre.com.

Sun., Oct. 23, 3 p.m. & 7:30 p.m., Award Winning playwright, filmmaker and author David E. Talbert brings his newest stage production “What My Husband Doesn’t Know” to the Fabulous Fox Theatre. 314/534-1111. Order tickets online at www.metrotix.com.

arts

Fri., Sept. 9, 6 p.m., Opening Reception for Ronald Herd II: The Most Known Unknown (exhibit runs through October 7), Nu-Art Series’ Metropolitan Gallery, 2936 Locust Blvd., St Louis, MO, 63103. For more information, call (314) 535-6500.

Fri., Sept. 9, 5:30 p.m., The Sixth Season...Opening Night in Grand Centerand Uptown, There will be a free shuttle between the Pulitzer Foundation for the Arts, Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis (CAM) and Bruno David Gallery in Grand Center and the Kemper Art Museum and Steinberg Hall Gallery at Washington University.

Sept. 19, 5 p.m., St. Louis County Library will host a public reception fora series of Pop Art Workshops with New York artist Michael Albert. The workshops will be held at seven SLCLbranches and the public reception featuring the artist’s work will be held at the Florissant Valley Branch, 195 New Florissant Rd., South. The Pop Art Workshops are part of SLCL’s Art @ Your Library programming. For more information please call 314-994-3300 or visit www.slcl.org/art@yourlibrary2011/sept-oct.htm.

Through Sept. 16, FormerSt. Louisian Christine Flavin s show Where I Am Now, a photography exhibit in Gallery FAB at the University of MissouriSt. Louis. Areception will be from 6 to 9 p.m. Sept. 12 in the gallery. Gallery FAB is at 201 Fine Arts Building at Rosedale Drive and Florissant Road in St. Louis County (63121). For more information, call 314-516-6967.

Sept. 16- Sept. 18, the17th

Annual MOSAICS Missouri Festival forthe Arts, more than 110 juried and invited artists from across the state, region and country will exhibit, discuss, and sell artwork. Main Street in St. Charles. For more information on the

MOSAICS Missouri Festival for the Arts, call 314-482-5476 or visit www.stcharlesmosaics.org

Sun., Sept. 18, 1 p.m., U City in Bloom Garden Tour, A self-guided tour of 10 private gardens, and one community garden in University City. The tour will conclude at U City Centennial Gardens at City Hall where light refreshments will be served. For more information, call (314) 9733541.

lectures

Sept. 10, 4 p.m., The Sabayet Centerpresents a showing of a video of Minister Farrakhan and Dick Gregory, 4000 Maffitt Ave.

Sun., Sept. 11, 3 p.m., Gitana Productions presents INALIENABLE RIGHTS: FROM PEARLHARBOR TO 9/11. After play, at 4:30, a post-show discussion open to the public will be lead by Reena Hajat Carroll of the Diversity Partnership with special guests Alderman Terry Kennedy, the daughter of Japanese Americans that were sent to U.S. internment camps and two Muslim Americans. Regional Arts Commission, 6128 Delmar Call 314-7216556 or visit www.gitanainc.org

Thurs., Sept. 24, 6 p.m. The City Forum and a panel of experts present an audienceinteractive discussion about and colloquial definitions of “race,” “white,” and “black” have changed throughout history, the history of these words and what they mean to us today. MacDermott Grand Hall, Missouri History Museum. For more information, visit http://www.CitiTalkLiVE.com

Through Oct.8, High school students who plan to pursue higher education can get a head start by attending a workshop at six St. Louis County Library branches. The workshops are entitled “College & the Real World: AWorkshop for Teens” and feature author and youth motivational speaker Grant Baldwin. The workshops are free and open to the public, but registration is recommended. Teens and parents of teens are welcome to attend. Refreshments will be served. The workshop will be held at three branches on Saturday, September 24: Headquarters (1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63131) at 10:00 a.m. Rock Road (10267 St. Charles Rock Rd., St. Ann,

MO 63074) at 12:00 p.m. Lewis & Clark (9909 LewisClark Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63136) at 3:00 p.m. The workshop will be repeated at three library branches on Saturday, October 8: Natural Bridge (7606 Natural Bridge Rd., St. Louis, MO 63121) at 10:00 a.m. Samuel C. Sachs (16400 Burkhardt Pl., Chesterfield, MO 63017) at 12:00 p.m. Tesson Ferry (9920 Lin-Ferry Dr., St. Louis, MO 63123) at 3:00 p.m. The first 30 teens to arrive at each workshop will receive a free copy of “Reality Check” by Grant Baldwin. For more information and to register for one of the workshops, please call 314 994-3300.

Sat., October8, 10 a.m., the Black Alumni Council of Washington University presents “YourMind on Your Money – YourMoney on YourMind,” Alumni House Living Room, 6510 Wallace Circle. To register, call 314935-5645 or e-mail wubac@wustl.edu

TMAPYouth Empowerment Sessions, Thursdays, 4:45 p.m., 5019 Alcott Walbridge C.E.C. Riverview West Florissant -TMAPmeet for Youth Empowerment Sessions facilitated by Keith Minor Nuisance Coordinator in the 27th Ward and feature a variety of positive role models from the St. Louis Metropolitan area listen to and dialogue with youth in the Walnut Park neighborhood. Topics vary and are youth driven. Call the RWF-TMAP office at (314) 381-6999.

Thurs., Sept. 15, 4:30 p.m., Prostate CancerAwareness Happy Hour, Men - take charge of your health and set the date to learn about your health and your prostate! Christian Hospital Physician Office Building 2, 11125 Dunn Road Cancer Care Center Lobby. Space is limited; please call 314-747-WELLto make your reservation.

Thurs., Sept. 22, 11 a.m., OurSecond Act, Inc. presents ADay of Mind, Body and Spirit Rejuvenation, featuring inspirational message, nail care muscle therapy and more. Richmond Heights Community Center, 8001 Dale Ave. For more information, call (314) 875-9932.

health

Sat Sept. 10, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Health Fairat Christ Our RedeemerAME Church, 13820 Old Jamestown Rd. in Black Jack, Mo. Cancer information, electrocardiograms (EKGs), prostate and head/neck cancer screenings; Show Me Healthy Women information by Saint Louis University Hospital. For more information, call 314-741-4222 or email kmarti75@slu.edu

Sat., Sept. 10, 9 a.m., The Lab’s amazing team will be participating in ALIVE magazine’s Fall Fitness event at Forest Park’s Dwight Davis Tennis Center.

Tues. Sept. 13, 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. – St. Louis Regional Health Commission 10th Anniversary Summit, The Chase Park Plaza HotelKhorassan Room. 12 Noon key note address and lunch. Free registration at http://stlouis-regional-healthcommi.ettend.com or call 314446-6454x1101.

Tues. Sept. 13, 2nd Annual Health Missouri Health Literacy Summit, “Health Literacy Tools forBuilding a Patient-Centered Health Home, Hilton Garden Inn, Columbia, Mo. Keynote speaker is Dr. Howard K. Koh, 14th assistant secretary for Health, U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services. Registration $150 ($175 after August 15). For more information, go to http://www.healthliteracymissouri.org.

Sat., Sept. 24, 9 a.m., Shalom Church City of Peace will host a Health and Resource Fair, 5491 N. Highway 67 (Lindbergh), Florissant, MO 63034. Health screenings to include Mammograms (by appt), HIV/AIDS, Head, Skin and Neck Cancer, Sickle Cell Anemia and Mental Health. Free smoking cessation classes, emergency/disaster preparedness info and Alzheimer’s and Dementia resources. For additional information, please call 314653-2300 or visit www.shalomccop.org

Sept. 24, Merck, the American LiverFoundation, Coalition of Positive Health Empowerment, and OraSure Technologies are sponsoring Step Up to The Plate Against Hepatitis C, a program which is offering FREE chronic hepatitis C testings at Busch Stadium.

Sat., Sept. 24, 8:30 a.m., Covenant ForLife Christian CenterCommunity Health Fair In partnership with CHIPS Health and Wellness Center, 7200 W. Florissant. For more information, call (314) 489-7454.

Oct. 1 ,Majic 104.9 and Hallelujah 1600 present the 2nd Annual Sista Strut 3K Breast CancerWalk. Forest Park. For more information on the 2nd Annual Sista Strut 3K Breast Cancer Walk or to register online, visit www.sistastrutstl.com or www.kmjm.com. To volunteer contact Melanie Powell-Robinson, 2011 Sista Strut Committee Chair at sistastrutstl@gmail.com

Sat., Oct. 1, 9 a.m., Women’s CancerAwareness Luncheon - Bowling OverCancer, Christian Hospital Atrium, 11133 Dunn Rd. Paul F. Detrick Bldg. Please call to register. Space is limited. 314-

747-WELL, or 1-877-747WELL.

Oct. 1, 10:30 a.m., Women’s Initiative 2011 Worship Through Prayer, Greater Mount Carmel Missionary Baptist Church, 1617 North Euclid Ave, St. Louis, MO 63113. For more information, call (314) 361-8893.

Oct. 23, 10:30 a.m., Women’s Initiative 2011 Women’s Day Guest Speaker-Dr. Valerie Walker, Greater Mount Carmel Missionary Baptist Church, 1617 North Euclid Ave, St. Louis, MO 63113. For more information, call (314) 3618893.

Sept. 10 – Sept. 25, City Hope Bible Church will be celebrating their 8th church anniversary during the entire month of September / September 10, 2011, free benefit concert outside from 1 p.m. to

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erly Buchanan, Elizabeth Catlett, Radcliffe Baileu and Richmond Barthe. These and other cultural griots tell multilayered stories of the South in drawings, paintings, sculptures, prints and mixedmedia. The 54 artists in the exhibit have various geographical ties to the South. Some were born there and have remained. Others have moved beyond its borders. Many who have never lived there experienced it through American history and fable as well as their personal travel. They might have encoun-

tered the region as a literal space below the Mason-Dixon line where American slavery took its last stand, or a fabled region of myth, family memories, spirit history. The Stella Jones Gallery in New Orleans organized “Southern Journeys.” It is a program of ExhibitsUSA, a national division of MidAmerica Art Alliance; the Missouri Arts Council; and the National Endowment for the Arts. Gallery 210 is on UMSL’s North Campus, 1 University Blvd. in St. Louis County (63121). Regular gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. More information: http:// gallery210.umsl.edu/ or 314516-5976.

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tion’s annual convention in Los Angeles. Well-wishers gathered in the plush lobby and theatre at Centene Corporation. Gov. Jay Nixon presented Atty. Freeman with a crimson velvet swathed golden cane from the prestigious Missouri Squires organization of which Atty. Freeman is one of the newest members of their elite 100.

A few of Atty. Freeman’s close friends and colleagues offering congratulatory hugs and salutes were; Georgeanne and Governor Jay Nixon June Fowler (BJC Vice President), Ina Boon (former NAACP County Chapter President), Thelma Cook (Chairman, Harris-Stowe State University Board of Regents), Dr. Henry Givens Jr. (recently retired President Harris-Stowe University), Reverend E. G. Shields, AT&T President John Sondag Michael Neidorff (Centene Chairman and CEO), Atty. Keith Williamson (Centene General Counsel), Honorable Michael McMillan, Honorable Esther Haywood Mary Ratliff (NAACP Missouri State Conference President), Kelvin Simmons James Buford Patrice Rencher with mentor and Grand Dame Dr. Katie Harper Wright, St. Louis American Publisher Dr. Donald M. Suggs Atty. Wayman and Susan Smith, Rita Jackson Logan (SLPS), Dr. Leslie F. Bond Sr., Billie Jean and Dr. Bernard Randolph Sr., Judges Judy and George Draper Damion Trasada (Deputy Director Boards and Commissions for Gov. Jay Nixon), St. Louis Social Scene’s Mary A. Polk, Carol and Dr. Jerome Williams Sr. Dr. Rosalyn England Henry, Harold Antoine Sr. Annetta Booth, stellar event planner Shirley Brown Paula Knight, Dr. Cheryl Polk (EVP and COO United Way St. Louis), Dr. Nathaniel and Sandra Murdock and Albernice Fagen

MuGGS

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after guitar players in popular music – working with artists ranging from Ice Cube and Outkast to Paula Abdul and Color Me Badd – he has entered the spotlight as bandleader of some of the most talented musicians in the area.

When the St. Louis American Foundation decided to switch the style up for the official 2011 Salute after-party by incorporating live music instead of the usual DJ, the choice was clear.

“My job is to keep them on the dance floor, and that’s what we are going to do,” James said. “They are going to hear something old, something new, something for everybody – and something that they won’t forget.”

James created the band in the spirit of Earth, Wind and Fire and The Jackson 5 – with choreography and an eye-catching show to accompany the music. Because the musicians reflect a blend of generations, they have the capacity to cover everything from Snoop Dogg to Sam Cooke.

Certainly enjoyed seeing the Sidney Clark’s (AT&T) over the Labor Day holiday because, where the Clark family goes…. a good time follows. Up at 6 a.m. to barbeque the best beef, pork, chicken and a host of other sides, wife Tammy says she takes a back seat to Sidney when it comes to mastering the family grill. The end to a perfect summer; the family enjoyed trips to Branson, Chicago, Wisconsin Dells and camping this year. Brother Stanford Clark (P&G) served as co-chef while wife Judy coordinated the children’s Wii competition. Jewel, Collin, Cameron and Sydni are all So You Think You Can Dance hopefuls thanks to Michael Jackson’s popular Wii offering, The Experience. Parents Shirley and Steve Clark Sr. and Aunt and Uncle Anita and Les Bond Sr. were on deck enjoying the relaxing afternoon.

Best Friends Luncheon!

This well attended Saturday afternoon luncheon held on August 20, 2011 at SipNSavor in the city’s CWE. Mary Lawrence (Diamond Catering) hosted this unique event for friends who always promise to get together for lunch…. but never find the time. Invitees were instructed to bring a best friend and a written sentiment letting their friend know why they are considered their best friend. The notes were read aloud and needless to say emotions ran high. Mary says her guests enjoyed the day so much they are hoping she will make this an annual event.

A few best friends at the first annual included; Jerome and Joyce Wilks Helen Imes Mary Hayden (Jaden’s Diner), Carolyn Woodson, Rosalyn Madden Eujice Brooks Madelyn Matthews, Carol Hayes Freda Allen Michelle Allen and Merri Jeffries

“It’s a great event for us to be a part of, and we know what the Salute means to the St. Louis community.”

The St. Louis American Foundation’s 24th annual Salute to Excellence in Education is days away. Scheduled for September 16, 2011America’s Center. Tickets are limited. Please call Robin Britt @ 314-533-8000 to reserve your table now! Joyce M. Roberts (Founder/CEO, For Kids’ Sake, Inc. and retired SLPS Educator) will receive the prestigious Lifetime Achiever in Education award. Excellence in Education awardees will include; Nikki Doughty, MA Director of Admissions/Alumni Relations and Placement, City Academy and Latasha M. McClelland, 3rd Grade Teacher –SLPS – Lexington Elementary School. Enjoy your weekend! Dana Grace: dgrandolph@ live.com.

The band is new, but it seems like every time they play a gig another one comes out of it. Which is how they ended up at Salute.

They are not taking their position as ambassadors to the dance floor lightly.

“When I heard what the gala was like and what they wanted at the after-party, I was like, ‘This is perfect,’” James said.

“The newspaper is huge, and I am honored for the opportunity. They told us when the doors open from the main event, they don’t want anybody to leave the dance floor. And that’s exactly what they are going to get.”

“All of us come from different eras, from the ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘80s and on up to now,” James said of the band that also includes Edgar “Boni” Hinton, Jason “Dirty Lint” Moore, Justin Clay and Roderick “LS Bless” Smith.

Hinton and James are childhood friends who each created solid reputations in their own right in the music industry.

Working together as veterans, they harken back to an era when dance was incorporated into a band’s performance.

“You had to know the routine and the music, and that was what it was going to be about –like The Jackson 5, Cameo and bands like that,” James said.

“It’s a lost art form. We wanted to bring that type of performance back and start at home. You can see something like that in Vegas, but you don’t see it here.”

Though new to Salute as a performer, James knows what to expect from the reputation that precedes the gala. He said, “It’s a great event for us to be a part of, and we know what the Salute means to the St. Louis community.” The St. Louis American Foundation’s 24th Annual Salute To Excellence in Education Scholarship and Awards Gala will take place at 7 p.m. (prereception at 6 p.m.) on Friday, Sept. 16 at America’s Center Ballroom. The post-gala entertainment by The Dirty Muggs begins at 9:30 p.m. For more information, call 314-533-8000 or visit http://www.stlamerican. com/salute_to_excellence/education_gala/.

St. Louis NAACP County and City chapters hosted a reception in honor of Frankie Muse Freeman, Esq. , recipient of the NAACP’s prestigious Spingarn Medal, that drew a throng of Freeman’s close friends and colleagues.

– Garry “ Dee Dee” James

Blues,” where he wrote his most famous blues songs. Call 901-527-3427. W.C. Handy Performing Arts Park is an outdoor performing arts park at the corner of Beale and Third Streets. Call for concert schedule: 901-526-0115.

The Ida B. Wells Marker in honor of an outspoken journalist, abolitionist and suffragist of the early 1900s, and one of the first African-American women to publish a newspaper is near W.C. Handy Park. WDIA Radio Station, 47 Union Ave., established in 1948, was the first African-American format radio station in the country. Call 901529-4300.

The Memphis In May International Festival has great music, great BBQ, and loads of fun! Each year the lineup and focus of the festival changes. Call 901-525-4611.

The Orpheum Theatre, 203 S. Main, “Where Broadway meets Beale,” is a 1928 restored historic landmark, hosting opera, ballet, concerts, touring Broadway shows and African Americans in popular Broadway plays and gospel musicals. Call 901-525-7800.

Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum (Burkle Estate), 826 N. Second St., is a white clapboard house built in 1849 by Jacob Burkle, rumored to have served as a way station on the Underground Railroad for runaway slaves. Call 901527-3427.

W.C. Handy House Museum, 352 Beale St., is where you can recapture the flavor of old Beale Street at the Memphis home of the “Father of the

The Southern Heritage Classic bring folks from Mississippi and Tennessee together to celebrate Tennessee State University and Jackson State University as students, alumni and friends get together to party and tailgate, and maybe even watch a football game in the Liberty Bowl, the second weekend in September.

For more information on Memphis tourism, visit www. memphistravel.com or call 888-633-9099.

Wanted: memories of Tillie’s

Families seek people who did business with grandmother at her store

Special to The American Miguel and Carla Alexander, from the Jeff-VanderLou neighborhood, are seeking to rehabilitate their grandmother’s old grocery store, Tillie’s Food Shop (corner of Garrison and Sheridan Avenues).

Along with a group of students from Washington University in St. Louis, they are looking for customers, vendors, or anyone who visited or con-

ducted business with Mrs. Lillie V. “Granny” Pearson, who was well known as “Ms. Tillie.”

They are also looking to interview any other black and/or female small business owners in the city of St. Louis from 194888. Interviews will be used to build a local archive of black and women-owned business history, and to apply Tillie’s Food Shop to the National Register of Historic Places. Interested individuals are in-

vited to meet the Alexanders at the Old Neighborhood Reunion Street Festival on Saturday September 17, 12-6 p.m., 2700 Block of Howard Street, between Leffingwell & Elliot Streets in St. Louis. For more information, contact Sonia Lee, Department of History, Washington University, at 314-935-6507 or Miguel and Carla Pearson Alexander, in memory of Granny at Tillie’s Corner, at 314-535-2397.

BEALE

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Beale Street, Memphis Tennessee

Birthdays!

James

Charles

Marie

Duane

Byron

Pamela

Rashad

EasterHolmes (85)

Reunions

Beaumont High School Class of 1966 will have their 45-year reunion to be held Oct. 14-16, 2011.Friday night - Meet & Greet; Saturday night - Dinner Dance and Sunday morningBrunch.All events will be held at TheSt. Louis Airport Renaissance Hotel.Please contact Josh Beeks 314-3030791 or Evelyn Wright- 314479-7674.

Harris-Stowe State University is calling on the classes of 1946, 1951, 1956, 1961, 1966, 1971, 1976, 1981, 1986, 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006 and 2011, with the class of 1961 being the “Golden Class,” for its 50-year reunion at the annual Gold Gala in October.If you or anyone you know is a member of any of these graduating classes and would like to participate, please contact the Harris-

~ CELEBRATIONS ~

Retirement Retired & relocating

MinisterFrancine Womack Stuart retired from the State of Missouri after 18 years of service from the departments of Mental Health andProbation and Parole. She is relocating to Georgia to be closer to her children. On August 27,a surprisegoing awayparty was held for Minister Stuartat Breath of Life Christian Fellowship Church, andon Monday, August 29, a retirement party was also held at the office of Probation and Parole on Jefferson. Friends, family and co-workers came out to show her love for the service she gave in ministry and to the citizens of Missouri. In May of this year Ms. Stuart received her Masters in Counseling from Lindenwood University.

Stowe Office of Alumni Affairs at (314) 340-3390 or alumni@hssu.edu.

Northwest Class of 1981 30th reunion, Oct. 7-9, 2011, Hilton St Louis Airport, 10330 Natural Bridge Road, St. Louis, MO 63134, 314-4265500, $75 per person/$140 for couples, $79 king/ $84 queen double, money order or cash only please.Payable to: Northwest Class of 81 Reunion. For information contact: Annette Irving at 314640-1193, Karen NealCinningham at 314-477-5435, Donna McRae at 314-3692748 or Sharon Scott at 314484-7067.

Old Neighborhood Reunion, Inc. Street Festival “A Decade of Caring” Saturday, Sept. 17, 12-6 pm, 2700 block of Howard Street. Greet old friends and neighbors, hot dogs, soda, attendance prizes, entertainment.

Soldan High School Class of 1962 is in the process of planning our 50th class reunion for the second weekend in August of 2012. We are calling all classmates to come and celebrate this momentous occasion. Your contact information is urgently needed. Please call Bobbie Brooks at 314-838-

Married Couple tied knot Aug. 20

Christie Roberson and Tenell Cothrine were married on August 20, 2011. The wedding ceremony and reception were held at Tower Grove Piper Palm House. The bride is a graduate of Saint Louis University with a degree in computer science technology, and the groom attends St. Louis Community College where he is pursuing a degree in Diesel Technology. They will take their honeymoon trip to Tahiti on their one year anniversary.

Anniversary Sneeds celebrate 7 years

9207 or Hiram Wilkens at 314803-5580. You may email Sam Harris at harrissam@hotmail.com

Soldan High School Class of 1982 is preparing for its 30 year reunion in 2012.We are seeking contact information to complete our class directory. Please email information to Rahmina Stewart Benford and Bridgette West at soldanclassof82alumni@yahoo.com.

Soldan International Studies High School Class of 2002 is preparing for its 10-year reunion in 2012. We need your contact information to complete our class directory. Please email your information including mailing and email address to soldanclassof2002@yahoo.com. For more information please contact Denise Cobbs at 314-3231228 or email: denisecobbs83@yahoo.com. Please join our Soldan Class of 2002 group on Facebook.

SumnerAlumni, 46-51, Annual Fall Festival, Sun., Sept. 11, 2011, at the Savoy Banquet Center, 119 S. Florissant Rd., from 3-7:00 p.m. There’ll be bingo, karaoke, trivia, bid whist, bridge, bonanza and more; game prizes, too. For more

Tyrece & Kara Sneed celebrated 7 years of marriage on September 4, 2011 with family and friends.“We are so proud of our accomplishment! Our love for each other and our three children is very strong. Thank God for our Marriage Unity.”

information, contact Pauline Wolfe, 314-869-2847 or Althea Jackson, 314,383-3601.

SumnerHigh School Class of 1987 is looking for all classmates interested in celebrating our 25-year reunion. We are in the process of planning. Your contact information is needed ASAP. Please emailyour information to:sumnerco1987@gmail.com

Vashon and O’Fallon Branch Graduates of 1966, 45th Class Reunion Dinner/Dance Saturday, Oct. 1, 2011, 5:30 p.m. to midnight, Embassy Suites/Airport, 11237 Lone Eagle Drive, Bridgeton, MO 63044.Meet and Greet, Friday, Sept. 30, 2011, Cypress Village Apts Club House, 11324 Hi-Tower Drive, St. Ann, MO 63074, 7 p.m. – mid-

night, admission $5.

Baccalaureate Service, Sunday, October 2, 2011, Mercy Seat Baptist Church, 4424 Washington, St. Louis, MO 63108 beginning at 3:30. For more information contact: Marilyn at 314-438-8338, Betty at 314-524-3324 or email us at vashonclassof1966@yahoo.com

Vashon Home Coming Football Game Vashon vs. Sumner at Sumner High School, Saturday, Oct. 22, 2011 at 1:30pm. We need all former football players, cheerleaders, band members, majorettes, spirit squad, pompon,all students, andall staff of Vashon High School to come out to support our football players. ForT-Shirts contact, Coach Reginald Ferguson 314-533-9487.

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

Reunion notices are free of charge and based on space availability. We prefer that notices be emailed to us! However, notices may also be sent by mail to:

Kate Daniel, 4242 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108. Deadline is 10 a.m. on Friday.

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

RELIGION

West Side honors Dr. Doris Jones Wilson

Gospel legend celebrated at West Side Missionary Baptist Church

American staff

Dr. Doris Jones Wilson, music legend and icon, is retiring after 13 years as Minister of Music for the West Side Missionary Baptist Church and after 65 years of serving the entire St. Louis community. Her work has spanned every musical genre, including arrangement, instruction and performance.

A salute to Dr. Wilson, entitled, “The Lady, The Music, The Legacy” has been planned with a special city-wide celebration. It will be held on Sunday, September 11 at 4 p.m. at the West Side Missionary Baptist Church, 4675 Page Blvd, with Maestro Dello Thedford serving as Musical Director for this special event.

A special service planned for the members of the West Side Missionary Baptist Church is also planned for Saturday, September 10.

Many of Dr. Wilson’s special musical arrangements and productions will be recognized during the celebratory weekend. Local and national distinguished musicians, composers, choral directors and elected oficials have been invited to be present to honor Dr. Wilson for her passion, commitment and contributions to the musical heritage of the St. Louis community and the nation at large.

Doris Jones Wilson has earned a national reputation as an outstanding musician, teacher, and choral director for a number of signature musical arrangements. In September, 2010, The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, in Washington, D.C., featured a special performance of one of her most popular arrangements, “Even Me.” She earned a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Missouri; a Master of Arts

Dr. Doris Jones Wilson will be celebrated September 10-11 at the West Side Missionary Baptist Church, 4675 Page Blvd. She is retiring after 13 years as its Minister of Music.

in Teaching and a Doctor of Education in Music Education from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. For more information, you may call Darlean King at 314-517-1401 or email the Celebration Planning Committee at djwcelebrate@gmail.com.

Baptist women’s events

Southern Mission Baptist Church (SMBC), 8171 Wesley Avenue, Kinloch, Mo., will host its Christian Women Prayer Breakfast 10 a.m. Saturday, September 17. The speaker will be Min. Antoinette Hines of True Redemption Center. It will host its Christian Women Annual Day at 8 a.m. Sunday, September 18. Evangelist Faye Harris of New Paradise Baptist Church will speak.

Southern Mission Baptist Church-West (SMBC-West), 1800 Oak Tree St., St. Peters, Mo. will host its Christian Women Annual Day at 11 a.m. Sunday, September 18. Min. Serena Chambers of Southern Mission Baptist Church will speak. “Honor Where Honor is Due”

Jazz at the church

Trio Tres Bien will appear in concert with Danita Saturday, September 17 at Scruggs Memorial Church, 3600 Cook Ave. in St. Louis, Mo. Donation: $10 at the door. Time: 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Hope to see you there.

15th Pastoral Anniversary

Please mark your calendars for Bishop Ronnie and Winnetta Whittier’s 15th Pastoral Anniversary beginning Friday, September 23 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, September 25 at 4 p.m.Theme: Completely, Yes Lord (John 21:16 and Revelation 16:5-7). Location: Emmanuel Temple Church of God, 4932 Union.

First Baptist honors

Chuck Smallwood

On Sunday, June 26, Trustee Charles “Chuck” Smallwood of the First Baptist Church of Chesterield was recognized for his 32 years of service. During service, Mayor Bruce Geiger of Chesterield, Mo. read a proclamation declaring June 26, “Charles Smallwood Day,” and Smallwood and his wife received many gifts, including the surprise visit of their non-local family. First Baptist Church of Chesterield has also decided to name their driveway “Charles Smallwood Blvd.” as another token of appreciation of a great man who has sellessly served the church for many years and continues to do so today.

INSPIRATIONAL MESSAGE

Forgive for you have been forgiven

By James A. Washington Dallas Weekly

This past Sunday, I have to tell you I cannot remember all the minister was saying. However I can tell you the following phrase still resonates with me today. “Forgive, because you have been forgiven.”

Now there was a sermon attached to this statement and it had a lot to do with not being able to let go of your past, being a captive of your transgressions, not being worthy of God’s forgiveness. The point that I took away is the dificulty in accepting the fact that you are forgiven.

A good portion of the sermon focused on one’s inability to move on after people close to you have wronged you. They have gone on about their lives, but we stay stuck in that moment of pain. It cripples us and robs us of what life offers today. It becomes our virtual prison that sometimes we can’t see or understand.

It really is easier to forgive others than it is to forgive yourself. Remember my phrase, forgive because you have been forgiven? At irst, it sounded like forgiving others was the requirement of God to get on with the things He has prepared for you.

But as I contemplated, it became clearer to me that God was saying, get past all the junk and guilt and embarrassment and sin in your life, so I can do my work through you.

“Forgive (yourself) because I have forgiven you.” While focused on past transgressions made against you by others, you miss the opportunity to let it go because you’re afraid if you do, you have to deal with your past life and your transgressions against others, yourself and God. This may sound complicated but it’s not. Liken it to a fear of success, not failure. Why would anyone be afraid of success? This fear is based on a belief that you cannot succeed, don’t have it in you. Why should you think you can succeed when your life and the people in it have consistently told you, you would never amount to anything. God bless those who have overcome this. God bless those who are able to listen to Him and believe they can accomplish anything. Forgive because you have been forgiven. Sounds like a plan to me. God is simply pointing the way for you to fulill His destiny for you. But irst you must recognize and accept that in spite of all the crap you have done, been involved with and thought you couldn’t do without matters not. God was there saw it all and still in spite of you forgave you. He’s just waiting on you to realize it so He can do great things through you. I know. May God bless and keep you always.

Send your Message column (no more than 500 words) as a Word document and pasted text to cking@stlamerican. com and attach a photo of yourself as a jpeg ile. Please be patient; we will run columns in the order received.

James A. Washington

Celebrity Swagger Snap of the Week

STL rap star Murphy Lee kicked off his Wine and Women tour Wednesday night at the Old Rock House. The St. Lunatic had the crowd nodding thanks to classics from his debut platinum selling album Murphy’s Law, guest verses and brand new material laced with his signature low.

Eight days until the magic happens. Y’all only have a week to get it together for the biggest gala in the area – otherwise known as the St. LouisAmerican Foundation Salute to Excellence in Education. Please make sure your gown zips up without the aid of potato chip bag clamps. You’re gonna need that room to groove, because the Dirty Muggs band puts their ankles in it! I’ve reached out to Beyonce to see if I can borrow her Valentino VMA maternity gown, because at this point anything else will require a whale bone body magic that starts at the neck and I’m not tryin’ to decapitate myself on the dance loor. Either way, I’m kicking it…and y’all will too if you know what’s good for you. The party goes down at 7 p.m. Sept. 16th at America’s Center.

One more letting loose at Lola. When I entered Lola Friday night and saw Coco Soul perched on stage in cascading tresses as Nappy DJ Needles was on the decks behind her, I knew that this downtown hot spot had maintained the feelgood vibe that quickly made it the weekend staple it has become. While Coco’s irst set featured her signature wails on cover songs, the second brought back an old Café Soul featured game of Finish that Line. After practically begging the enthused, yet shy crowd to get her irst contestants, she was inally able to coax the classic boys versus girls scenario. The contestants had a choice between hiphop and R&B as Needles picked random tracks for them to inish after he cut the music. In this case, the ladies seemed to prevail as ole girl was easily able to inish lines of TLC’s “Creep” and Mary Jane Girls’ “All Night Long.” However, my boy couldn’t hang as he got stumped on D’Angelo’s “Brown Sugar” and LLCool J’s “Doin It.” Meanwhile DJ Nune was in the back serving quiet basement party tease playing cuts like Cameo’s “Candy” with Thelonius Kryptonite helping out on the microphone. A 1st Fridays Fiesta. 1st Fridays was nearly packed out at Flamingo Bowl last Friday. While some chose to be dapper in vest button downs and party skirts, others opted for the dust bunny gear featuring tall tees and leopard print from Foxmoore’s throwback collection. As a few snowlakes rocked their best WTH faces and quickly inished their last round of bowling, it was a gathering of the hip-hop club scene’s inest. Brassiere and hotpants lourished while I sat in the cut and wondered when the Fresh Prince box-cut made a return. Teddy of Bfree Paparazzi was on his hustle as party people posed with glee. As Charlie Chan Soprano got his spin on, the gags continued as ladies traipsed in with big fancy belts full of make shift holes. Here’s a tip. If you have to cut a hole in your best patent leather feature, just give up the ghost and carry your shape to your local Dress Barn. I’m sure you can ind a sale that tickles your fancy. A gentleman that seemed to look like Drake’s weathered-face big brother was posted seemingly declaring himself the party grand marshall as he parted the crowd like the Red Sea with an overly conident stroll. As the residents of the Peabody community continued to pile through the door, the 1st Fridays family kept the party rocking ‘til the morning light. A soulful big 5 (no 0).That’s right, for the ive of you uninformed folks Café Soul is celebrating ive years of open mic gold next Friday at The Loft and they always getitin.com (what? You know it’s catchy!) for their anniversary jams. This year they are bringing one of the most underrated soul singers in the game to headline the evening. Syleena Johnson will most certainly serve it up under any circumstances. Aanybody who was in the building for that jive turkey Jaheim (he was so lousy I had to take my slang back to “Good Times” to chop him properly) knows I’m right about it. I can’t wait. And the doors open at 8. Hold up, I might have to take my freestyle to the microphone to help pay tribute…okay, maybe not. What High School Runs this _______(shut yo’mouth)?! It was like the largest and most “soulful” banquet known to man at the Ambassador Sunday. Former U City Indians repped with homemade liers as Sumner and Northwest alumni stayed on their feet in rousing participation. Stripped pantsuits, discounted Party City balloons, bejeweled party tops, and dried split ends were all the rage.As a few freestyled on an old-school hip-hop beat, a few ladies took a prolonged time out of their seats as they took delicate party steps with a mean hip sway all the while not spilling their drinks. Darius Bradford was all smiles decked in the cleanest white suit jacket I’ve seen. The original big-nosed rapper, Mr. Humpty Hump himself (a.k.a. Shock G from Digital Underground) showed up with nose prop, glasses, fro, brown pinstriped jacket and moccasins. 2 Pac’s “Same Song” and “Humpty Hump” got the whole room doing their best throwback move.After all these years, he has still maintained the same level of gooiness that made him so magnetic in his heyday and aged pretty well for 48. After a few dog calls (ruff-ruff) to the fellas, he then got rid of the nose prop and silly coat to feel his gangster alter-ego as he went into “I Got Five On It” and “Kiss You Back” with an inserted 2pac tribute of “I Get Around” and “Shed so Many Tears” which found shock on keyboards. Once the artist formally known by his nose inished, Guy inally skipped on stage. I had to drench myself with water to remind myself it was Aaron Hall (and not R. Kelly) hard dancing in First Down bubble vests with a set that included “Spend The Night” and “Piece of my Love.” 47-year-old Hall still seems to feel himself after all these years…literally! Help. It was as if they came out, I sipped a drink, high ived a girlfriend, looked back, and he was nude (well, shirtless), in one fell swoop! I suppose such wardrobe change was all in preamble for their hit “Let’s Chill.” All in all, this will be a night that all the old heads will remember!

The return of the mistress of yodels & friends. Did you all hear about Marsha Ambrosius coming to town with Miguel? I am super excited about this one. I had to toughen through the likes of Keshia Hell-No and the many drop doors and ripped carpet of the Imperial Palace to see these two in the past. But to know they will be in a tolerable venue such as the Pageant on October 26th, just warms my heart! I hope Miguel brings his glowstick microphone and matching stand..for some reason it quietly illuminated my soul with life! September soul. Vanita Applebum has deinitely been on her grind lately. On the heels of a livelier showing from Bilal last month, she’s at it again bringing neosoul artist Anthony David back to headline the launch of Fusicology St. Louis. This concert will kick off Friday September 9th at Lola as doors open at 9:30p.m.

Cara and Alana kick it Friday night @ Amnesia

Keisha and Darryl @Jack Daniels and Bud Light Lime Day Party @ Cafe EAU Sunday Afternoon

Local Artists OOOPS and Kels show much love to Murphy Lee Wednesday @ Old Rockhouse for

Birthday girl Charysma and Erica get it in on Friday night for the Society, Envy, Plush Reunion @ Amnesia

Pash and Bre @ 1st Fridays @ Flamingo Bowl

Candice,Brittney,Kandice and James enjoy the breeze and the sun @ at Jack Daniels and Bud Light Lime Day Party @ Cafe EAU Sunday Afternoon

Dre and Latisha lounging Friday night @ Lola

Vanessa and Gerald @ Stress Free Fridays @ Jazz Cafe’

Lozell Stiles Owner of Jazz Cafe and Stress Free Fridays co-founder Mark Anthony Jones Friday night @ Jazz Café

Alicia and Gerard enjoy the Friday night vibe @ EXO

Photos by Lawrence Bryant

Community College opens Center forWorkforce Innovation

Aerospace Institute, preemployment program

Special to The American

More than 200 guests

joined St. Louis Community College representatives, elected officials, industry partners and community leaders Aug. 29 to dedicate and tour the college’s new Center for Workforce at 3344 Pershall Road.

“Fundamentally, we are here because we share a belief – that education is our common stake in the future,” said Melissa Hattman, chair of the STLCC Board of Trustees. “This

students and the community.”

Located adjacent to the college’s Florissant Valley campus, the 32,000-square-foot CWI will serve more than 500 students annually.

“Our Center for Workforce Innovation is another place where we serve students by providing access to new opportunities, helping them down the path to be better citizens for the future of Missouri,” said Myrtle E.B. Dorsey, Ph.D., STLCC chancellor.

“None of this would be possible without the ongoing support of our students, the public, our business and community partners, and our state and local legislators.”

The CWI houses some of the college’s newest and most cutting-edge workforce training programs, including several that were targeted in the Training for Tomorrow Initiative, as well as other innovative instructional spaces and a public access computing center.

One of the CWI’s centerpiece programs is the St. Louis Aerospace Institute. It began as a pre-employment program for Boeing, delivering technical instruction in aerospace structures and mechanical/electrical systems. Agrant from the U.S. Department of Labor laid the groundwork to expand this program to the general aerospace industry cluster as well as establish composites material training capability. It also will include new composites fabrication and assembly labs.

As part of the Training for Tomorrow Initiative, the college has established an energy technician program that now will be located at the CWI. This program is part of STLCC’s “green” jobs strategy that includes renewable energy, energy efficiency and sustainable design and construction. The energy technician curriculum includes residential and commercial energy auditing, advanced building control systems with remote monitoring, aspects of commercial energy retrofits, and facilities management with a focus on energy efficiency. It also will integrate BPI and LEED certification standards.

“The establishment of the Center for Workforce Innovation is another solid step forward for this region,” said Gov. Jay Nixon. “Repurposing a building of this nature, taking the various funding sources and putting them to work, merging education with business, merging education with the trades, and putting that all together in a place that is accessible and affordable during the day and at night for students is exactly the kind of work it will take to continue to turn this economy around.”

Coursework in sustainable construction also will be offered at the CWI, also part of the Training for Tomorrow Initiative. Sustainable construction has been based upon the college’s construction management and construction technology programs, and will incorporate training related to the LEED standards.

STLCC received funding through the Missouri Department of Higher Education’s Broadband Technology Opportunities program to develop the CWI’s public access computing area. This center will have 25 stations that will be open to the public on a walk-in basis, and offer computer training classes to help prepare unemployed and underemployed workers develop skills needed for the 21st century work force. The CWI also will offer industrial maintenance technician and programmable logic control programs to serve business and industry through customized curriculum. The CWI has general classroom space that can be expanded into a large multipurpose room, a computer classroom with 20 stations, conference room, staff offices and lounge-type area. Established in 1962, St. Louis Community College is the largest community college district in Missouri and one of the largest in the United States. For more information about STLCC, visit www.stlcc.edu

More than 200 guests joined St.Louis Community College representatives,elected officials,industry partners and community leaders Aug.29 to dedicate and tour the college’s new Center for Workforce at 3344 Pershall Road.