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Welcome to The St. Louis Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Planned Parenthood challenges new Missouri law blocking Medicaid payments to its clinics.

• Upcoming Los Askis concrert

• A deep-dive into the life of Kevin Kline

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“If plan “A” doesn’t work, the alphabet has 25 more letters – 204 if you’re in Japan.” 

–Claire Cook

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Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

Which annual St. Louis music festival showcases local, national, and international jazz artists, offering free performances across multiple stages?

A) The St. Louis Jazz Festival

B) The LouFest Music Festival

C) The Big Muddy Blues Festival

D) The Chesterfield Jazz Festival

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The St. Louis museum dedicated to the exploration of the American West, featuring art, artifacts, and interactive exhibits, is D) The Museum of Westward Expansion

News

💼 Business

Genomic research conference nonprofit names new leader. (Link)

St. Louis entrepreneur sells another company, plans to stay on to see brand grow. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Cardinals had chance to ‘bury’ Padres, but left themselves vulnerable in 7-5 loss. (Link)

Cardinals DFA Shawn Armstrong in another controversial roster move. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Planned Parenthood challenges new Missouri law blocking Medicaid payments to its clinics. (Link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

🏌️ Ascension Charity Classic - Friday
Norwood Hills Country Club, St. Louis
Fri, Sep 6th - Sat, Sep 7th at 8:00 AM | (More info)

⚾ Seattle Mariners at St. Louis Cardinals
Busch Stadium, St. Louis
Saturday, Sep 7th | 6:15 PM | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Los Askis
El Volcán Discoteque, St Louis
Saturday, Aug 31st | (More info)

🎵 Jagged Edge
Ballpark Village, St Louis
Sunday, Sep 1st | (More info)

Family

🎵 Big Muddy Blues Festival 2024
612 N 1st St, St. Louis
Sunday, Sep 1st | (More info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “St. Louis where every building is equipped with solar and wind power” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

St. Louis Historical Events

St. Louis School Board Desegregation (1983) - Landmark case for school integration.

In 1983, St. Louis became the stage for a landmark case in the movement toward educational equality and school desegregation in the United States. This came as a resolution to a protracted legal battle that began in the early 1970s, aimed at addressing the systemic racial segregation in St. Louis public schools. The case, Liddell v. Board of Education of the City of St. Louis, culminated in a court-approved settlement that mandated the implementation of a desegregation plan. This plan was monumental, not only because of its comprehensive nature but also because it signified an earnest effort to dismantle the racial barriers that had long defined the educational landscape in St. Louis.

The desegregation plan incorporated several innovative strategies to promote racial integration. One of the most significant components was a voluntary inter-district transfer program, allowing African American students from the city to attend schools in predominantly white suburban districts, and vice versa. This encouraged a more balanced racial mix in schools and aimed to provide equal educational opportunities to all students, irrespective of their race. Additionally, the plan supported the creation of magnet schools with specialized programs in areas such as science, the arts, and vocational training, making these schools attractive to students from diverse racial backgrounds and promoting a natural form of integration.

The St. Louis school desegregation effort of 1983 had profound implications for the city and set a precedent for similar initiatives across the country. While it faced challenges, including logistical issues and resistance from some community segments, it represented a critical step forward in the fight against educational inequality. The legacy of the case is a testament to the power of legal action and community advocacy in pushing for social change and has continued to inform discussions around educational equity and integration policy in the United States.

Famous People From St. Louis

Ike Turner (1931–2007) - Musician, songwriter, and record producer, part of the duo Ike & Tina Turner, began his career in St. Louis.

Roots in the Blues: The Early Years (1931-1949)

Ike Turner's journey began in Clarksdale, Mississippi, where he was born into a world imbued with the sounds of the blues. His early life was steeped in music, fostering a deep appreciation and talent that would guide his career. This period was marked by Turner's initial foray into the music scene, learning piano and guitar, and forming his first band, the Kings of Rhythm, as a teenager.

The Kings of Rhythm: Rising to Prominence (1950-1959)

In the 1950s, Turner and his band started making waves in the music scene in and around St. Louis, where he had moved. This decade was crucial in Turner's evolution as a musician and bandleader, developing a distinctive style that combined rhythm and blues with elements of rock and roll. His work during this time laid the groundwork for his future success and innovation in the music industry.

Creating the Ike & Tina Turner Revue (1960-1969)

The 1960s heralded the union of Ike Turner with Anna Mae Bullock, who would become Tina Turner. Together, they formed the Ike & Tina Turner Revue, a dynamic and explosive act that would redefine soul music. Their performances were electrifying, marked by Tina's powerful vocals and Ike's sharp musical arrangements, propelling them into the spotlight both in the United States and internationally.

Success and Struggles (1970-1976)

This period was a mix of professional success and personal struggles for Ike Turner. The duo's fame continued to rise, with hits like "Proud Mary" securing their place in music history. However, behind the scenes, their relationship was tumultuous, with reports of Ike's drug addiction and abusive behavior tarnishing their public image.

Separation and Decline (1976-1984)

The mid to late 1970s saw the dissolution of Ike & Tina Turner, both professionally and personally. The separation deeply impacted Ike, leading to a decline in his career. While Tina went on to achieve solo stardom, Ike struggled with legal issues and drug addiction, diminishing his influence and output in the music industry.

A Fall from Grace (1985-1993)

During these years, Ike Turner's life seemed to spiral out of control. His legal troubles mounted, culminating in a prison sentence for drug-related offenses. This period was marked by public and critical disregard, overshadowing his contributions to music and casting a long shadow over his legacy.

Rediscovery and Rehabilitation (1994-2000)

The late 1990s brought a resurgence of interest in Ike Turner's music, partly fueled by the broader recognition of the foundational role of rhythm and blues in the development of rock and roll. Ike began to rehabilitate his image and career, working towards sobriety and returning to the studio to produce new music.

The Comeback (2001-2007)

The early 2000s saw a remarkable comeback for Ike Turner, who had once again found his footing in the music industry. He released several albums to critical acclaim, showcasing his enduring talent and versatility as a musician. This period was a time of redemption, with Turner receiving recognition and awards that reflected a reevaluation of his legacy.

Final Years and Legacy (2007 and Beyond)

Ike Turner passed away in 2007, leaving behind a complex legacy. His contributions to music are undeniable, having shaped the sound of rhythm and blues and rock and roll. Yet, his personal life and actions cast a shadow that cannot be ignored. His death prompted a reexamination of his life and work, balancing his musical genius with his personal failings.

St. Louis and the Blues Tradition (Throughout Career)

Turner's connection to St. Louis was a pivotal aspect of his career. It was here that he honed his craft, absorbing the rich blues tradition of the city and contributing to its musical landscape. St. Louis served as a launchpad for Turner's career, influencing his music and providing the backdrop for the early years of the Ike & Tina Turner Revue.

Key Achievements of Ike Turner:

• Pioneered the development of rock and roll with early recordings in the 1950s.

• Formed the legendary Ike & Tina Turner Revue, influencing soul and rock music.

• Won a Grammy Award for ""Proud Mary"" and received several nominations throughout his career.

• Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991 for his contributions to music.

• Experienced a late-career revival, winning critical acclaim for his work in the 2000s.

Ike Turner's story is one of musical innovation marred by personal controversy. His contributions to the development of rock and roll and soul music are monumental, laying the foundation for future generations of artists. Yet, his life was also marked by struggles with substance abuse and allegations of domestic violence. The duality of his legacy serves as a reminder of the complex narratives that often accompany great artistry."

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-Matthew Larsen

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