WINNER: 2018 NNPA MERIT AWARDS: 3RD PLACE BES T COLUMN WRITING
WINNER: 2019 GENERAL EXCELLENCE, 3RD PLACE, COLUMN WRITING, 2ND PLACE
Insight News
October 14, 2019 - October 20, 2019
Vol. 46 No. 41• The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com
Honoring elders
Harry Colbert, Jr. Pastors Jessica Jackson and Timothy Jackson presented Elder Sticks to civil and human rights icon, Dr. Josie Johnson and McFarlane Media CEO, Al McFarlane during a webcast interview at the Marcus Garvey House in North Minneapolis. Watch the interview online at https://youtu.be/WVzKveZeWOA. Johnson and McFarlane were part of the 2018 cohort of We IMPACT! Community Impactor awardees, all of whom were presented custom crafted South African canes symbolizing their status as village elders. The 2019 We IMPACT! Community Impactor Celebration, 5:30pm Saturday, Oct. 19 at Science Museum of Minnesota in St. Paul, is themed “Black Love Works” and honors couples who exemplify the power of love and family in our community. For tickets and information: 612-724-2329.
In the tradition The annual We IMPACT! Celebration, Saturday October 19, 2019 from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. at the Science Museum of Minnesota, showcases talented African-American youth in leadership and recognizes powerful Community Impactors who have demonstrated exemplary life-long service to community and society. The We IMPACT! Mission is to solve problems, improve communities and inspire hope through secular and spiritual programming. The vision is four-fold, according to We IMPACT! Founder/ Executive Director, Jessica Jackson: • Erase generational poverty through education • Empower individuals through financial literacy, economic dignity & entrepreneurism • Encourage healthy lifestyles • Eliminate recidivism We IMPACT! in 2015 officially launched as a 501(c)3 after laying the groundwork in each of these fields through IMPACT LIVING Christian Center (www.impactlivingcc. org). The new organization introduced itself that year by recognizing and honoring its first group of Community
Impactors – dynamic AfricanAmerican men. The next celebration, in 2017, recognized
B
lack Love Works
The theme for this year’s Celebration is “Black Love Works” in recognition of trailblazing African-American couples who will be honored with Community Impactors awards: • Arts IMPACTORS – Toni PierceSands and Uri Sands, Founders & Artistic Directors, TU Dance • Civic IMPACTORS – Don and Sondra Samuels, CEO of MicroGrants and CEO of Northside Achievement Zone (respectively) • Education IMPACTORS – Eric and Dr. Ella Gates Mahmoud, Executive Director, Harvest Best Academy and CEO, Seed Daycare, Inc. (respectively) • Entrepreneur IMPACTORS – April and Richard (posthumously) Estes, Founders, Estes Funeral Home • Faith IMPACTORS – Dr. Willa Grant Battle and Reverend Dr. Walter L. Battle (posthumously), Founders and Pastors, Grace Temple Deliverance Center • Health & Wellness IMPACTORS – Atum and Ahmad Azzahir, Founders
and honored phenomenal African-American women. In 2018, with the
theme, “Go Forth”, the We IMPACT! celebration reflected the voice and spirit of powerful
African-American elders “upon whose backs we all stand,” lauded celebration organizers.
and President, Cultural Wellness Center and International Kepheran Institute • Mentorship IMPACTORS – Deanna & Roger Cummings, Founders, Juxtaposition Arts
of the University of Minnesota S.T.E.M. IMPACTOR – Dr. Reatha Clark King, Chemist and Former President of Metropolitan State University & General Mills Foundation
Director, We IMPACT! & Lead Pastor, IMPACT LIVING Christian Center
Past Awardees
2017: African-American Women
2018: African-American Elders Civic Leadership IMPACTOR – Sharon Sayles Belton, Former Mayor, City of Minneapolis Education IMPACTOR – Archie Givens, Jr., President, Givens Foundation for African-American Literature Faith IMPACTOR – Reverend Gloria Roach-Thomas, Lead Pastor, Camphor United Methodist Church Health & Wellness IMPACTOR – Dr. Joseph White (posthumously), Professor Emeritus at U of CA-Irvine and “Father of Black Psychology” Mentorship IMPACTOR – Mahmoud El-Kati, Professor Emeritus at Macalester College & Cultural Commentator Social Entrepreneur IMPACTOR – Al McFarlane, Founder & Publisher, Insight News Social Justice IMPACTOR – Dr. Josie Robinson Johnson, Former Regent
Criminal Justice IMPACTOR Patricia Crumley, Esq., Crumley Law Office Education IMPACTOR – Doris Baylor, Founder, YMCA Beacons Program Faith IMPACTOR – Reverend Marchelle Hallman, Chaplain, MN Department of Corrections Health & Wellness IMPACTOR – Maya Moore, World Champion/ MVP, WNBA MN Lynx Mentorship IMPACTOR – Wokie Weah, Founder/President, Youthprise We IMPACTOR! Award – Dianne Binns, Hennepin County Community Corrections & Welcome Home Prison Reentry B.E.A.S.T. IMPACTOR (Bold, educated, advanced, strong, tenacious) – Pastor Jessica Jackson, Founder/Executive
2015: African-American Men Criminal Justice IMPACTOR – Former Chief Judge Michael J. Davis, U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota Education IMPACTOR – Justice Alan Page, Founder, Page Education Foundation Faith IMPACTOR – Pastor Timothy Jackson, Senior Pastor, IMPACT LIVING Christian Center Global IMPACTOR – Blessing Rugara, Founder/Managing Director, Circle Capital Global – South Africa & Minnesota Health & Wellness IMPACTOR – Melvin Anderson, Founder, Track MN Elite Mentorship IMPACTOR – Ezell Jones, Owner, Fifth Quarter Enterprise, LLC & Associated Insurance Agents, Inc. We IMPACTOR! Award – Jim Bransford, Retired Hennepin County Public Defenders & Welcome Home Prison Reentry Program
“Since our wonderful inaugural dinner four years ago, as an organization, we have continued to deepen our understanding of community needs, refine problem-solving strategies, assess the keys to successful implementation and results, reinforce relevant partnerships, grow our presence, and work to scale our programs,” says Jackson in outreach to community supporters and program participants. Community members can support the Celebration by attending Saturdays event and considering hosting a table and inviting family, friends, and colleagues. A table of 8 is $600. We IMPACT! encourages community members to ask their employer or organization to become a sponsor and invites supporters to sponsor one or more College Crew youth and/or parents to attend at $75 per person donation Online registration and ticket sales are at Eventbrite: https://weimpact.eventbrite. com/ Individuals, businesses and organizations interested in becoming sponsors, can contact Pastor Jessica Jackson at jljackson@impactors.org or 612-724-2329.
Page 2 • October 14, 2019 - October 20, 2019 • Insight News
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Insight News • October 14, 2019 - October 20, 2019 • Page 3
Insight News WINNER: 2018 NNPA MERIT AWARDS: 3RD PLACE BES T COLUMN WRITING
October 14, 2019 - October 20, 2019
WINNER: 2019 GENERAL EXCELLENCE, 3RD PLACE, COLUMN WRITING, 2ND PLACE
Vol. 46 No. 41• The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com
Ellison sues Northside landlord Court order protects tenants who want to contact housing inspectors Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison last week announced that his office has obtained a court order halting Steven Meldahl — the landlord of 25 properties in North Minneapolis — from retaliating against his tenants when they contact city housing inspectors. The order was a result of his office’s lawsuit against Meldahl alleging he preys on low-income tenants in a systematic and widespread “eviction for profit” scheme. As part of this scheme, Meldahl forces his low-income tenants to pay large security deposits and high monthly rent to live in dilapidated houses, which Meldahl not only refuses to adequately repair but requires his tenants to repair, contrary to law. Meldahl also requires tenants to sign leases that illegally forbid them from seeking health and safety inspections and repairs and threatens re-
Attorney General Keith Ellison taliation if they do. If they do, Meldahl evicts them — then refuses to return their security deposits, which he has sometimes required in amounts as high as $2,000 or more. Meldahl has bragged that
he has evicted 99 percent of his tenants. He has called himself “the most experienced inner-city landlord probably in the history of the city.” Even though Meldahl has illegally suppressed inspec-
tions, City of Minneapolis housing inspectors have cited him for more than 1,300 housing-code violations at his rental properties since 2009. “It’s almost impossible to afford your life and live with dignity and respect if you’re cheated out of safe, healthy, stable housing at a fair price. Tenants are consumers who deserve the same protections from fraud and abuse as all consumers — and State law gives the Attorney General broad authority to protect Minnesota consumers,” Attorney General Ellison said. “That’s why my office sued to stop Steven Meldahl’s ‘eviction for profit’ scheme that violates both State law and common decency. I’m glad the Court has seen fit to protect tenants from his illegal action. “I’ll keeping using the powers of State law and my office to protect tenants the same as we
protect all Minnesota consumers from fraud and abuse,” Attorney General Ellison concluded. Attorney General Ellison’s office filed a civil lawsuit last week against Meldahl, who sometimes does business as S.J.M. Properties, Inc. The State alleges that Meldahl: 1) misrepresents tenants’ legal rights to habitable housing and unlawfully shifts the burden of making housing repairs, even normal wear and tear, from himself, as the law requires, onto his tenants; 2) deceptively tells his tenants that they cannot have their homes inspected by local authorities without his permission; and 3) charges his tenants late fees that exceed those allowed under law. These allegations represent violations of the State’s Consumer Fraud Act, Deceptive
Trade Practices Act, and the Habitability, as well as of State law regulating late fees. The Attorney General’s office seeks permanent injunctive relief, restitution for harmed tenants, civil penalties, and attorneys’ fees. The State’s lawsuit was filed in Hennepin County District Court. The Court issued a Temporary Restraining Order that requires Meldahl to stop retaliating against his tenants that contact the City of Minneapolis’s Housing Inspectors. The Court also froze 10 of Meldahl’s bank accounts. In his order, Judge Patrick Robben wrote, “There is good cause to believe that the State will likely prevail on the merits of its claims that Meldahl has violated, is violating, and is about to violate” the Consumer Fraud
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Former Lady Gopher Kim Bell slam dunks motherhood with delivery of twins By Dr. Irma McClaurin,PhD Culture and Education Editor Giving birth is one of the most magical moments in life. But when you slam dunk and bring twins into the world, it’s double magic. On October 8, 2019, Kimberly Bell, a 6’7 former player for the University of Minnesota’s Lady Gophers (No. 54) delivered Saige Rene and Karter Jay into the gopher family. Both at 21 inches and 7lbs 14 oz and 7lbs 3oz, these Minnesota twins already seemed destined for greatness. Both mother and babies are doing well. When Kim Bell hit the gopher courts as a freshman, she was a unique in what she had to offer the University of Minnesota’s Lady Gopher basketball team. Bell signed on to come to Minnesota in 1998 and expectations were great. She was, after all, a local star and at 6 feet, 7 inches, the tallest Gopher ever. Despite a garbage bag filled with athletic offers from colleges and universities around the country, Kim chose to stay close to her hometown so that her mom and dad would be able to watch her play. Born with height, Kim still had to prove herself; she lost weight and learned to manage
Kimberly Bell as Mom.
Kimberly Bell as Lady Gopher. her problem knees. In the process, she developed into a Top Ten star blocker for the Lady Gophers. To her credit, by the
time she graduated, Kim was considered a “force on defense, where she... [had] collected 134 blocks to rank second on
the Minnesota career list...[and had] developed a nice touch on a sweet jump-hook shot” to boot. By 2001, her senior year, Kim Bell was noted more for her leadership in helping to develop a winning team and coaching younger players for the Lady Gophers than putting in time on the court playing. Brenda Oldfied, Gopher coach at that time, described
the senior player in this way: Kim is a captain in every sense of the word. ...She puts the team ahead of herself in every single thing that she does. It’s only fitting to see her finish her career with that infectious smile that shows she’s having the time of her life.” (https://gophersports.com/ news/2001/12/11/Bell_Making_the_Most_of_Gophers_Re-
cord_Breaking_Start.aspx) Now Kim is back in action on the court of motherhood—one of the toughest that those of us who have been there know about firsthand. But we have no doubts that the same leadership, compassion, infectious smile, and positive spirit Kim displayed on the courts will be reflected in her new role as a mom. She has spent her time since leaving University of Minnesota and the Lady Gophers working with youth and so has hands-on experience already. Wonder if the twins, Saige and Karter, realize that they are not just getting a mom, but also a coach and a former Lady Gopher leader? Somebody better warn them that behind their mother’s smiles lurk a defensive guard laying in wait. Insight News congratulates Kim Bell and welcomes Saige Rene and Karter Jay into the world. Proud grandparents are Reece Rene Bell and Ralph Bell. And by the way, I’m not just the author of this story, but a grand Tia (grand aunt) to the twins. (C)2019 Irma McClaurin Solutions (http://irmamcclaurin. com/). Irma McClaurin is an anthropologist and award-winning writer as well as the Culture and Education Editor for Insight News.
People-powered neighborhoods Dave Colling to lead northside Minneapolis business coalition
West Broadway Business and Area Coalition hires new executive director Dave Colling has been chosen to lead the West Broadway Business and Area Coalition (WBC) as executive director. For the past five years, Colling has been working with nonprofit organizations in several roles including two years as the executive director of the Harrison Neighborhood Association. “I am so honored to serve as the executive director at WBC, an organization that shares
Dave Colling my passion building strong communities,” Colling said. “I’ve admired the work WBC has done over the years, and I’m looking forward to working with the board, staff, and partners as we grow this vibrant and impactful organization.”
Colling worked as a political strategist managing Keith Ellison’s first congressional campaign in 2006. “Executive transitions call on the board to step up to a higher level of engagement and lead the organization through a crucial period that will determine our future course,” said Dr. Tara Watson, board chair of WBC. “I am confident with our new ED our organization will be ready and prepared for the exciting opportunities ahead of us.” With more than 20 years’ experience working with government agencies, political and nonprofit organizations, and inside the marketing communications industry, Watson said Colling brings a community-focused
News
Dr. Benjamin Chavis Jr. visits with Bill Cosby
PAGE 4
approach to his work. The West Broadway Business and Area Coalition leads initiatives to bring businesses, non-profit organizations and neighbors together to create an inviting and vital West Broadway corridor.
Jordan Area Community Council annual meeting The Jordan Area Community Council will hold its annual meeting, on Thursday (Oct. 17) from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. at the Davis Center, 1250 W. Broadway Ave. In addition to the annual meeting, there will be a costume contest, door prizes, “star” neighbors will be honored and youth scholarships awarded.
A social hour in the cafe’ with live entertainment, food and refreshments begins at 5 p.m.
Midtown Phillips Neighborhood Association
Call for utility box artists An open call has gone out for visual artists to work with Midtown Phillips Neighborhood Association’s community outreach partners to create public art on utility boxes in Midtown Phillips neighborhood. Four professional artists will be chosen and paired with community partners that serve youth to design and create the art for the utility boxes with the youth. The artist will take
direction in designing the process from the youth and staff of the paired community outreach partner organization, drawing from the specific work of the organization and communities that the organization serves. The theme of this public art project is to hold up images in the neighborhood of physical and cultural health through connections. Artists can apply by sending a cover letter, resume, work samples of artwork, (preferably public artwork) and work sample descriptions by Oct. 25 to midtownphillips.outreach@ gmail.com. Up to five images are allowed. Artists chosen will receive $1,000 for working on the project with the community partners.
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Page 4 • October 14, 2019 - October 20, 2019 • Insight News
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Dr. Benjamin Chavis Jr. visits with Bill Cosby By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia On the first anniversary of his imprisonment, Bill Cosby received a visit from Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., civil rights leader and lead-member of the famed political prisoner group known as the Wilmington 10. Chavis, who is the president and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association, the trade organization that represents the Black Press of America, joined Cosby’s longtime crisis manager Andrew Wyatt for a visit with the entertainer. It was Chavis’ third visit with the fallen icon, who has refused to meet or speak with representatives from any other news organization. The meeting took place at the request of Cosby, who in 2018, received a threeto-10-year prison sentence following his conviction on charges of aggravated indecent assault. “We saw a strong Bill Cosby today,” Chavis said. During the visit, Chavis said he prayed with Cosby and discussed a range of topics from health and family, to his conviction and the pending appeal. While Chavis said details of what he and Cosby discussed are personal, the visit reminded him of the near decade he and the other members of the Wilmington 10 spent behind bars.
“The conditions inside all prisons in America are architecturally designed and standardly built to breakdown and suppress the spirit and emotions of those in prison,” Chavis stated. SCI-Phoenix stands behind what Chavis called internationally outlawed, lifethreatening razor-sharp barbed wire fences that are fortified by 20-foot electrified concrete walls. The jail contains nineby-five-foot solid steel cages. Asked why it was important that he visit Cosby, Chavis said the issue is more significant than Cosby. “The Black Press of America maintains a proud tradition of not only exposing the various injustices that are done to Black America but also it is our tradition to be an advocate for those who have been unjustly labeled as outcasts,” Chavis stated. During the visit, Wyatt and Cosby both praised the Black Press for its coverage of Cosby’s trials. “Mr. Cosby said that he appreciates that the Black Press was the only African-American media at both trials every single day,” Wyatt stated. “Mr. Cosby never asked for favors, and he only asked that the media would treat him fairly and look at the facts. Thanks to Dr. Chavis who sent his reporter there, Mr. Cosby remains grateful to the Black Press for its fairness.” Chavis has long held an interest in the Cosby case. As a civil rights activist, Chavis was concerned
Pool photo
Chavis said Cosby is using his time in prison to help others. about numerous unconstitutional rulings by the trial judge in the case. Further, tactics used by prosecutors during jury selection, opening and closing statements, and throughout the trial proved troublesome for most courtroom observers. Before the start of the second trial last year, one juror who’d just been selected to serve on the panel told other potential jurors, “We can all go home, he’s guilty.” That should have disqualified the juror, but the trial Judge Steven T. O’Neill rejected defense arguments to remove him. Another juror admitted that she was friends and neighbors with the court reporter, who serves as an em-
ployee to the judge. O’Neill refused to recuse that juror. One other juror said he had a “personal relationship” with one of the detectives who investigated Cosby, and he too remained on the panel despite defense objections. Additionally, Assistant District Attorney Stuart Ryan shouted out in court that he was “tired of this Black sh*t,” which set the tone for the racially-charged trial. Ryan’s colleague, Kristen Feden, also lashed out at Cosby’s team during jury selection. Feden said the Cosby team already had their token Black juror. “They already have their one. What more
do they want,” Feden stated within earshot of the judge, lawyers, and media. Chavis noted that mainstream media’s coverage of the trial lacked facts, and the racially and politically-charged atmosphere inside and around the Pennsylvania courthouse may have deprived Cosby of a fair trial. Cosby is appealing his prison sentence. He’s currently awaiting a ruling from the state Superior Court, which heard oral arguments from Cosby’s attorneys, prosecutors, and the state attorney general in August. Meanwhile, Chavis said Cosby is using his
time in prison to help others. “As the Wilmington 10 discovered, Bill Cosby is not serving time. He is making time serve the liberation of the minds and consciousness of his fellow inmates through mentorship, spiritual, personal, and collective development sessions,” Chavis said. “His spirit, mind, body, and soul are strong and getting stronger each day. The fact that he is blind has not handicapped him or prevented him from maintaining his integrity, self-worth, value, and intellectual genius.” When asked what makes Cosby a political prisoner, Chavis said the answer is similar to what caused the Wilmington 10 political prisoners. “The systematic injustice of his racially-motivated and orchestrated charges, trials, conviction, and imprisonment pending his appeal,” Chavis stated. “I know this from firsthand experience with the unjust incarceration of the Wilmington Ten political prisoner group in North Carolina during the 1970s. The Wilmington 10 were officially declared political prisoners by Amnesty International and by the United Nations. The Pennsylvania prison that Bill Cosby is now unjustly imprisoned exemplifies the prisons that are designed to break the spirit of those in there. It is important for Black America to know that mass incarceration is not the end. Bill Cosby is showing that you can promote personal and collaborative transformation inter-generationally.”
The Trump Effect: Is this administration a present danger to the Black psyche? By Gregg Reese Our Weekly News Contributor “Today, more than 150 years after the end of the Civil War, America is again divided, by geography, party, ideology, economics and race.” —From “Is America Heading For Another Civil War?” By Austin Sarat on July 30, 2019. The debate over the merits of Donald John Trump’s presidency continue with no sign of closure in sight. The constituency that elected him has remained steadfast in its support, as the marginalized and ethnically diverse who oppose him, stay at odds with his policies and (in their view) offensive rhetoric. Vast segments of the psychiatric
community, including the editorial staff of Psychology Today, and the eminent Yale psychiatrist Bandy Lee, have expounded on the potential harm of the chief executive’s mental fitness, on our collective psyche. That said, we have reached out to a cross section of (non-white) mental health clinicians to get their take on the man in the Oval Office and his impact on people of color in these United States. A rudderless community in the wake of a storm “Radical” is the word conjured up by Dr. Sandra Cox, the head of Los Angeles’ Coalition of Mental Health Professionals, when confronted with the name Donald Trump. For decades a custodian and shepherd to the needs of the South L.A.
INSIGHT NEWS www.insightnews.com
Insight News is published weekly, every Monday by McFarlane Media Interests. Editor-In-Chief Al McFarlane Publisher Batala-Ra McFarlane Associate Editor & Associate Publisher B.P. Ford Managing Editor Harry Colbert, Jr. Culture and Education Editor Dr. Irma McClaurin Associate Editor Afrodescendientes Carmen Robles Associate Editor Nigeria & West Africa Chief Folarin Ero-Phillips Director of Content & Production Patricia Weaver Content & Production Coordinator Sunny Thongthi Yang Distribution/Facilities Manager Jamal Mohamed Receptionist Lue B. Lampley Intern Kelvin Kuria
Contributing Writers Maya Beecham Nadvia Davis Fred Easter Abeni Hill Timothy Houston Michelle Mitchum Inell Rosario Latisha Townsend Artika Tyner Toki Wright Photography David Bradley V. Rivera Garcia Uchechukwu Iroegbu Rebecca Rabb Artist Donald Walker Contact Us: Insight News, Inc. Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Ave. N. Minneapolis., MN 55411 Ph.: (612) 588-1313 Fax: (612) 588-2031 Member: Minnesota Multicultural Media Consortium (MMMC), Midwest Black Publishers Coalition, Inc. (MBPCI), National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) Postmaster: Send address changes to McFarlane Media Interests, Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Avenue North, Minneapolis,
community, Cox now serves a largely Black and Hispanic clientele. The specter of fear cast by the man in charge is apparent to both demographics. Immigrants with little or no command of the English language (who, in turn, are likely to have questionable legal status regarding their residency in this country), are reluctant to openly express an opinion about the man or his policies. Those with more stable footing feel slightly freer to talk about the relative merits of the current administration. Nativeborn Blacks demonstrate an erosion in self-esteem as well. “In my opinion, the state of the African-American consciousness is lower now than it has been in the last 50 years,” she said. “My greatest fear is the impact of racism has increased exponentially. That has led to self-hatred and denial of one’s African roots.” As a seasoned activist who was nurtured in the progressive advocacy of the mid20th century, Cox regrets the loss of commitment and idealism of subsequent generations. “Some of these brothers have got their heads in the sand, and they have no idea on the impact this is having on their lives and their children,” she declared. Being forced to “man up” Stoicism is defined as the endurance of pain or hardship without the display of feelings and without complaint. “The stigma of ‘looking crazy’ and ‘acting dramatic’ is a profound one. In many ways, the Black population is told that this is not something that ‘we’ do. We don’t have the luxury to ‘revel’ in our emotions.” —By Britt Julious from “I am not OK: Stoicism, mental health,
Gage Skidmore/Wikimedia Commons
Donald Trump speaking at a rally in Fountain Hills, Az. and
the
Black community” “Simple” is the word conjured up in Alisha Woodall’s mind when the name Donald Trump comes up. By this she means the comparative lack of “polish” Trump has compared to others in the political arena. Within six months of the Trump election, therapist Woodall, who maintains a private practice in a suburb of Houston, noticed a new, previously underrepresented demographic seeking her services; Black men. What makes this unique is the fact that this group generally refrains from utilizing psychiatric treatment because of cultural stigma within the Black community, and the masculine resistance (found in all ethnicities) to open up about emotional issues. Trump’s abrasive manner may be an impetus in bringing these issues to the surface. His lack of refinement brings to the surface all the anxieties, fears, and trepidations Black people have cultivated over the past four centuries of their residency in the Americas. In other words, the stress of the
new administration has forced these people to sidestep their trepidation of psychiatric treatment. Political observers of the past 30 years might advance that more skillful politicians with subtle charm, such as a Ronald Reagan, might pass questionable legislation that could be over-looked by all but the most “woke” constituents. (Not) just us “I believe Mr. Trump has hurt all Americans.” —Joshua Cenido, who is completing his medical residency at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science. “Fearful” is the word uttered by Dr. Joshua Cenido, a native of Cerritos. As a Filipino-American, he points to the duality of his culture, meaning that his community is by turns conservative economically and financially, but progressive when it comes to social issues, including tolerance of the LGBTQ lifestyle. Like Woodall, Cenido believes Trump’s crudeness can bring up buried emotions to those with a history of
persecution (common enough in immigrant populations). “Mr. Trump’s actions and language have justified many of the fears and concerns people of color face with regards to persecution, whether it is systemic or interpersonal. It also doesn’t help that he’s emboldened those who’re already inclined to mistreat and persecute people of color to exercise their prejudice,” he notes. Cenido offered an opinion that might go a long way in explaining why the current office holder, a man who )“…consistently disregard(s) the expectations of integrity, dignity, and respect that many might expect…”) managed to secure the presidency. “I believe Mr. Trump has worked to align himself with individuals who are willing to confer power on him. Right or wrong, he has become a representative voice for certain marginalized groups who craved a voice,” said Cenido. “As unpopular as he may be, he is popular enough to maintain the supports that continue to secure his particular position of leadership.”
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Insight News • October 14, 2019 - October 20, 2019 • Page 5
Millennials expand gaming industry By Destiny Royston Special to The New Tri-State Defender The gaming industry is expanding, and millennials are the driving force. What used to be considered a waste of time and quarters is now a full-blown industry. There is a such a thing as a professional gamer now. Some of them are celebrities on YouTube as they livestream their games. Tournaments can be found on television. And gaming can even help raise funds for your favorite charity. St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital has a program called St. Jude PLAY LIVE, where gaming broadcasters with online handles like “DrLupo” and “iamBrandon” gather in Memphis to support the annual St. Jude PLAY LIVE Summit. “We’re fortunate to have the support of the gaming community,” said Melanee Hancock, chief digital and innovation officer at ALSAC. “People can use their passion for gaming to change the world.” According to Nielsen, 71 percent of millennial gamers watch gaming content on YouTube and Twitch, another streaming platform. Streamers bring recognition to the gaming culture through their popularity. And that popularity translates into dollars. The gaming community has raised $12 million for St. Jude through PLAY LIVE. Gamers from around the globe participate in St. Jude PLAY LIVE. Memphis has received even more support from the gaming community because BraveDog Games is bringing the BraveDog Video Gaming Innovation Center (BDIC) to the city. Founded back in 2015, BraveDog Games’ mission is creating more diverse video game content. The LemoyneOwen College Community Development Corporation (LOC CDC) will construct the center that will capture the legacy of 38126. The BDIC will feature a premium video
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What used to be considered a waste of time and quarters is now a full-blown industry. There is a such a thing as a professional gamer now. And gaming can even help raise funds for your favorite charity. game lounge, a state-of-the art esports arena, a student video game development training facility, an entrepreneurial training center and more. “We as a company are ecstatic about this partnership,” said Dusting Mack, chief executive officer and cofounder of BraveDog Games Innovation Center. “We envision Memphis becoming a catalyst for innovation within the video games and esports industries.” For millennials born between 1981 and 1996, video games have always existed – from the all-time classic Ms. Pac Man through the recent hysteria of Fortnite, kids who played video games grow into adults who play video games. Fifty-four percent of millennial gamers have a fulltime job, according to Nielsen. And a portion of that money goes right back into gaming – consoles, subscriptions and extra gaming content. Local gamer and millennial Ralphael Burks, is a full-time employee and game broadcaster on Youtube. Gaming has impacted his life since he was a kid and now he’s part of the reason why gaming is expanding. “I remember playing Mario Kart 64 with my siblings on the Nintendo 64, and from
then on my interest in video games grew,” Burks said. “Gaming has allowed me to meet other gamers and find interest in broadcasting games.” As an active streamer, Burks plays various games, each with a new and unique experience. “It’s like you’re watching a movie and you’re controlling what the main character does,” he said. “It allows me to play a different role and do things that I couldn’t do in reality.” Now with the BraveDog Video Gaming Innovation Center coming to Memphis, Burks sees an opportunity for AfricanAmerican youth to participate in something new and educational. “The BraveDog Innovation Center will help the youth stay off the streets and keep them on the right path.” he said. And gaming isn’t just for the boys. Latoria Goodman knew she loved video games when she got her own Nintendo 64. She uses her love for video games by streaming on Twitch.tv and for Black Girl Gamers (BGG). “Black Girl Gamers is a safe and inclusive space for Black women all over the world.” Goodman says. Black Girl Gamers was founded by Jay-Ann Lopez back in 2015. She created BGG for those who felt invisible by the gaming community. The community now has over 5,000 members. “It’s a safe space that heightens black women’s voices in gaming and advocates for diversity and inclusion.” Lopez said. Gaming has even inspired Goodman to write. And if you assume she’ll be writing code, you might be wrong – she wants to tell stories. “Gaming immerses you in another world.” Goodman says. “I love a game that tells a good story. There’s something really fascinating about that and makes me want to get in the industry of writing for video games.” Destiny Royston is a rising sophomore at the University of Memphis and a City of Memphis Summer Youth Employment intern at The New Tri-State Defender.
Steve Cole: CD Release Event
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NOV 9
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NOV 14
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Donna the ƍƷÝńŕ
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Page 6 • October 14, 2019 - October 20, 2019 • Insight News
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Insight 2 Health 3D Mammography now available at North Memorial Health Breast Center in Robbinsdale Approximately one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. While all women are at risk, studies show Black women are more likely than other racial and ethnic groups to be diagnosed at later stages and have the lowest survival at each stage of diagnosis. They are also more likely to be diagnosed with an aggressive type of breast cancer that is linked to low survival rates. Today, one of the best ways to detect breast cancer early is with regular mammograms starting at age 40. Innovations in technology continue to provide
more tools for physicians to detect breast cancer as early as possible. And because North Memorial Health Breast Center in Robbinsdale strives to offer exceptional care, they now offer breast tomosynthesis, also known as 3D mammography. Studies have shown that tomosynthesis could be especially effective for women with dense breast tissue. 3D mammography looks at layers through the breast, which removes visual issues with overlapping tissue and improves images for certain types of abnormalities. It could also be used to further examine
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an identified abnormality— such as a lump or discharge. The North Memorial Health Breast Center balances a healing, spa-like setting—complete with soft music and warm, cozy robes—with insightful, board-certified experts and incisive technology. Experienced, welcoming staff work to help ease anxiety and make sure each customer has an exceptional experience. And, a mammog-
raphy screening typically takes less than 20 minutes, the level of pain is minimal, and the screening cost is usually covered by insurance. The North Memorial Health Breast Center in Robbinsdale and our other mammography locations are accredited by the American College of Radiology and Intersocietal Accreditation Commission – the gold standards in radiology. Experienced technologists perform the mammograms and subspecialized radiologists interpret the images. Check with your
primary care provider to see if you’re due for a mammo-
you’ll want to make sure test results are sent back to your
Approximately one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.
gram and if so, which test, or technology may be best for you. While you don’t need a referral for mammograms,
provider for your records. Here’s to your health! To schedule a mammogram, call 763-581-3554.
insightnews.com
Insight News • October 14, 2019 - October 20, 2019 • Page 7
WAYS TO EXPLORE AFRICAN AMERICAN
HISTORY WITH
See their faces light up.
JOIN THE DISCUSSION Join the African American Interpretive Center of Minnesota and LSE Architects for a panel discussion on the unique experience of being a black architect in Minnesota, past and present. Crossing the Color Line: A Discussion with Minnesota’s Black Architects, Oct 14, Mill City Museum, Minneapolis.
TELL US WHAT YOU THINK TEL Take our survey online and attend a public meeting to provide input on whether the current name of Historic Fort Snelling adequately reflects the expanded stories being shared there. Find meeting dates, times, and locations at mnhs.org/naming.
oct. 1 - Nov. 3 SEE A FILM M
7pm–10pm Sun–Thurs | 7pm–11pm Fri & Sat Wind your way through more than 5,000 glowing carved pumpkins. Get lost in the magic. Don’t miss the 2nd annual Jack-o-Lantern Spectacular at the Minnesota Zoo. Let the area’s best pumpkin artists take you on a journey around the world. Enchanting for all ages.
Tickets available at mnzoo.org
First Thursday Films: Toni Morrison: Pieces I Am Film Screening (Oct 3) and Marshall Film Screening (Nov 7), North Community High School, Minneapolis.
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Page 8 • October 14, 2019 - October 20, 2019 • Insight News
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Act and Deceptive Trade Practices Act. Judge Robben also wrote, “Under Minnesota law, tenants have an unwaivable right to report habitability concerns to the local authorities, without retaliation, as well as to live in habitable housing that complies with health and safety laws.â€? Mark Iris, sta attorney of Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid, also announced that his organization, representing all current tenants of Mr. Meldahl, has ďŹ led a classaction lawsuit against Meldahl. “Meldahl has been proďŹ ting o the backs of low-income tenants in North Minneapolis. These are people that already have few options and even fewer resources to assert their rights to safe and healthy housing,â€? said Mr. Iris. “Our lawsuit is merely an attempt to restore Meldahl’s tenants with the fundamental housing rights that all other tenants in Minnesota are aorded:
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raising children in a home without exposure to mold or lead, being able to call on maintenance to have working appliances, paying a consistent and predictable monthly rent. We are optimistic that both lawsuits will have a direct impact on improving the housing conditions of Meldahl’s tenants and indirectly beneďŹ t tenants across the state.â€? Among the orders the City of Minneapolis has issued to Meldahl are: replace heating equipment so homes can be heated suďŹƒciently; exterminate insects and vermin, which have included rats, mice, cockroaches, and squirrels; replace exterior doors that did not function; repair broken windows; repair or replace non-functioning appliances; remove interior waterdamaged surfaces; install missing smoke detectors; remove an illegal bedroom; repair or replace electrical components; remove exit-window obstructions; repair or replace foundations; repair or replace plumbing; replace cabinets and counters; repair or replace exterior walls; repair or replace exterior stairs; install clothes dryer ducts;
and repair or replace roofs. In 2006, the U.S. Department of Justice sued Meldahl for failing to comply with the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act. Meldahl was ordered by the court to pay civil penalties and abate and mitigate the lead paint in 31 of his rental homes in Minneapolis. Attorney General Ellison encourages anyone who has been victimized by Steven Meldahl and S.J.M. Properties, Inc. to ďŹ le complaints with the Minnesota Attorney General’s OďŹƒce by calling (651) 296-3353 (Metro area) or (800) 657-3787 (Greater Minnesota), emailing attorney.general@ag.state.mn.us, or submitting an online complaint form on the Attorney General’s website at www.ag.state.mn.us/ OďŹƒce/Complaint.asp.
Meldahl currently owns the following 25 properties in North Minneapolis: • 3725 6th St. N. • 3313 Lyndale Ave. N. • 2942 Dupont Ave. N. • 2819 Fremont Ave. N. • 2322 Irving Ave. N. • 2411 Irving Ave. N. • 2610 Irving Ave. N. • 2622 Irving Ave. N. • 2306 James Ave. N. • 2623 Knox Ave. N. • 528 Morgan Ave. N. • 1523 Morgan Ave. N. • 3507 Morgan Ave. N. • 810 Newton Ave. N. • 1410 Newton Ave. N. • 2910 Newton Ave. N. • 2623 Oliver Ave. N. • 2805 Oliver Ave. N. • 2931 Oliver Ave. N. • 3335 Oliver Ave. N. • 2900 Queen Ave. N. • 3115 Thomas Ave. N. • 317 23rd Ave. N. • 1118 24th Ave. N. • 2219 29th Ave. N. # 1
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