12 12 16 insightnews

Sen. Bobby Joe Champion presents a free night of music featuring Ashley DuBose, Paris Bennett, Darnell Davis & the Remnant and more, Dec. 20 at the Cowles.

aesthetically speaking

Aesthetically It!: Events, concerts, venues in the Twin Cities

MORE ON PAGE 10

WINNER: 2016 NNPA MERIT AWARDS: 1ST PLACE COMMUNIT Y SERVICE, 3RD PLACE BEST USE OF PHOTOGRAPHS

Insight News December 12 - December 18, 2016

Vol. 43 No. 50• The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com

Courtesy of Jeremiah Ellison

Jeremiah Ellison

Ellison seeks 5th Ward seat

By Harry Colbert, Jr. Managing Editor Citing the Minneapolis Police shooting of Jamar Clark and its aftermath as the catalyst, artist and activist Jeremiah Ellison Tuesday, December 6 announced he will run for Ward 5 Councilperson in

Mint Condition

Minneapolis. Voters will choose City Council representative in November 2017 elections.

The seat is currently held by first term councilperson, Blong Yang.

Ellison said in the wake of the Clark shooting and the subsequent Minneapolis Police Department Fourth Precinct protests, Yang

ELLISON 9

If Ellison takes DNC post

Hayden, Champion looking at Ellison’s Congressional seat

KING

Sen. Jeff Hayden

Sen. Bobby Joe Champion

Sen. Jeff Hayden (DFL-62) says he is very much interested in 5th Congressional District seat if Rep. Keith Ellison resigns to become Democratic National Committee (DNC) chair.

“I’m looking at it closely and I’ve started talking to family, friends and supporters, but nothing is formal,”

SEAT 9

Mint Conditon, KING earn Grammy nominations

By Harry Colbert, Jr. Managing Editor

Mint Condition, the preeminent soul R&B band of the past 25 years, was nominated for a 2017 Grammy in the category of Best R&B Album for the LP, “Healing

By Ingrid Ferlo Contributing Editor Reaching the multitude of KFAI listeners, the Dec. 6 “Conversations with Al McFarlane” featured varied guests discussing the passing of Fidel Castro.

Castro was a complex man who changed the face of Latin America and Cuba during and after the Cuban Revolution of 1959. The Cuban Revolution is still a topic of controversy, with some thinking that it benefited Cuba and others

thinking that it failed to deliver the equality for which Cubans fought.

McFarlane’s panel included Yrak Aenz Orta, a Cuban rapper who is in the United States on an artist exchange program, Maria Isa Perez, a Puerto Rican singer, songwriter, actress, activist and the CEO of SotaRico and Villarosa Music, Roberto Fonts, founder and CEO of Dialogue One and Jorge Allen, a Cuban-born Minnesota business owner.

Each guest presented unique stories and varied points of view revealing that although the world saw Cuba as a united stronghold following the revolution, within, the country was divided.

CUBA 9

Health

Despite progress, colorectal cancer claims thousands of Black lives

PAGE 3

King.”

The two groups with a shared

GRAMMYS 7

Santa Larry brightens Mall of America

Cuba: Finding balance Afro descen dientes

Season,” and the soulful trio, KING, earned a nomination in the category of Best Urban Contemporary Album for its first full-length project, “We Are

By Harry Colbert, Jr. Managing Editor

Santa Larry and Reginald Milton McKeever, III

While some on the Internet seemed to have conniptions at the mere thought of the fictional character, Santa, being anything

but white, the feeling was quite the opposite for the hundreds who met “Santa Larry” in person at the Mall of America.

Larry Jefferson was on duty at the Mall of America for

SANTA TURN TO 4

Business

Commentary

Community

Timberwolves, Lynx create fellowship program for female college graduates

Facebook’s ‘Ethnic Affinities’ option violates the Fair Housing Act

Minnesota African American Heritage Calendar showcases contributions

PAGE 4

PAGE 6

PAGE 9

Page 2 • December 12 - December 18, 2016 • Insight News

insightnews.com

insightnews.com

Insight News • December 12 - December 18 • Page 3

Insight 2 Health Despite progress, colorectal cancer claims thousands of Black lives

By Dr. Patricia A. Maryland NNPA Newswire Guest Columnist

Few diseases cause as much pain and suffering as cancer.

While survivors, activists, policymakers and healthcare professionals have been successful in raising awareness for some types of cancer, others are not as high profile. Among them, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men and women combined in the U.S. Even less widely known is the fact that African-Americans have

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 Assistant to the Publisher Shumira Cunningham Associate Editor & Associate Publisher B.P. Ford Managing Editor Harry Colbert, Jr. Associate Editor Afrodescendientes Carmen Robles Associate Editor Nigeria & West Africa Chief Folarin Ero-Phillips Associate Editor Culture and Education Dr. Irma McClaurin Associate Editor Leadership and Social Enterprise Dr. Anita Davis-DeFoe Director of Content & Production Patricia Weaver Content & Production Coordinator Sunny Thongthi Yang Distribution/Facilities Manager Jamal Mohamed

Patricia A. Maryland says that there’s also a need for a broader conversation about increased risk and the need for prompt, diligent colorectal cancer screening in the African American community

the highest incidence and mortality rates for colorectal cancer.

The disparities are impossible to ignore. African-Americans are about 25 percent more likely than whites to be diagnosed with this form of cancer, and about 50 percent more likely to die from it.

This is particularly troubling when considering that, in many cases, colorectal cancer can be prevented and is highly treatable, if it’s detected early.

While we’re still working to understand why African-Americans are more susceptible to this type of cancer, one of the causes of the disparity in mortality is that minorities lag behind in screening for colorectal cancer. Researchers at the University of Texas have shown that African-Americans are less likely than white patients to receive a colonoscopy – the most common form of colorectal cancer screening – even when controlling for health insurance coverage and access to quality healthcare providers.

Both patients and providers bear some responsibility for the lower rates of colorectal cancer screening among African-Americans. On the patient side, African-Americans may not know that they are at a heightened risk of experiencing colorectal cancer earlier than other groups. In the African-American community, the share of colorectal cancer cases that occur before the

generally recommended screening age of 50 is almost twice as high as among whites. That’s why experts advise African-Americans to begin screening at age 45 – five years earlier than other demographics.

But encouraging early and proactive screening is complicated.

The invasiveness of the procedure, coupled with fears of pain, often causes African-American patients to rule it out as a preventive measure. What’s more, a lack of access to a physician they trust leads many members of the African-American community to delay this important procedure until it’s too late.

In addition, healthcare providers sometimes contribute to the low colorectal cancer screening rates among African-Americans. A recommendation from a physician has been shown to increase the likelihood that a patient will get a colonoscopy, but according to the American College of

Gastroenterology, AfricanAmericans are roughly one-third less likely than whites to get such a recommendation.

These racial and ethnic disparities illustrate the need for a patientcentered, culturally competent approach to healthcare. As with many diseases, a broad range of factors determine a person’s risk of developing colorectal cancer.

Genetics, family history, personal medical history, diet, weight and physical activity all can have an impact.

That’s why healthcare providers must treat each patient in a way that takes into account all of the influences on their health. This includes their race and ethnicity, which in the case of colorectal cancer is a critical factor in determining whether a physician

should recommend a colonoscopy, when a patient’s screening should start and concerns a doctor should address about the procedure.

Training healthcare professionals to understand the unique colorectal cancer risks of African-Americans, as well as the unease with which many view colonoscopies, is an important step toward increasing screening rates and catching more cases in their early stages.

There’s also a need for a broader conversation about increased risk and the need for prompt, diligent colorectal cancer screening in the African-American community.

This disease will have claimed close to7,000 African-Americans lives this year alone. It’s time to make sure the impact of colorectal cancer is just as widely known as that of other forms of cancer. And

it’s time to replace misperceptions and fear by embracing a culture of health that puts awareness and prevention first. Fortunately, incidence and mortality rates for colorectal cancer have been on the decline among both AfricanAmericans and other racial groups across the board, but substantial gaps in health outcomes remain.

Healthcare providers and the African-American community must work together to ensure that all patients have and take advantage of the opportunity to access a colonoscopy or other screening procedure that could save their life.

Dr. Patricia A. Maryland is the president of Healthcare Operations and chief operating officer of Ascension Healthcare, a division of Ascension.

Memory Loss Support AFRICAN AMERICAN CAREGIVER SUPPORT KEEPING FAMILIES TOGETHER

Lill’s Angels Support Group

Caregiver HOLIDAY GATHERING

Receptionist Lue B. Lampley Contributing Writers Melvin Carter, Jr. Julie Desmond Fred Easter Gloria Freeman Timothy Houston Penny Jones-Richardson Michelle Mitchum Darren Moore Artika Tyner Toki Wright Photography David Bradley Rebecca Rabb 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, Minnesota, 55411.

Thursday, December 15 at 5:30 – 8 pm VOA – MN Southwest Center 3612 Bryant Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55409

Featuring: Fea Fe eaat atur tur uriri : A caregiver panel \ Ethylon (E.B.) Brown, ordained Minister of Music, ensemble, and instrumental music. Her passion for inspirational and interactive choral music draws audiences of every age in expressive, enthusiastic rhythms and melodies that celebrate life given by God the Creator.

Be prepared to share your favorite Christmas tunes to sing along.

Lift your spirits with the joy of music.

By RSVP only – 952-945-4173

Dinner served at 6 pm

The Holiday Gathering will replace the December support groups

You belong.

The health plan with you in mind.

At Medica, you’re not just part of a health plan.

You’re part of a community that believes in better health for all.

Learn more at medica.com

Page 4 • December 12 - December 18, 2016 • Insight News

insightnews.com

U.S. based My-Star Radio strikes partnership with Citi-FM Ghana Timberwolves, Delaware Valley, Del. – My-Star Radio, an African radio station that operates out of the Delaware Valley in the U.S. finalized arrangements in November to formally begin broadcasting live news segments from one of the biggest media companies in Ghana – Citi FM. This arrangement means MyStar Radio will be able to pick up the feed for live news bulletins

Santa From 1 four days to sit with children of all ages and learn what was on their Christmas lists. For some, having the opportunity to talk with a Santa who shared similar pigment was fulfillment enough, as Santa Larry is African-American. He is the first Black Santa in the Mall’s 24 year history. “‘Mommy, I’m here with Santa’ is what my daughter kept saying,” said Mawusi Ahelegbe, who took her 4-yearold daughter, Selom Ahelegbe,

for broadcast to its American audience with a particular interest in Africans in diaspora.

My-Star Radio is one of the brands under the umbrella of the KOJAC Media Inc., started in 2014 by Ghanaian, Kofi Jacquaye.

The company also runs MyStar TV, which airs programming for Africans in the United States.

Plans are in the works to churn

to see Santa on a recent Sunday in December. “And later in the car, without me saying anything, she said, ‘And he’s brown like me.’”

Mawusi Ahelegbe said it was important for her to have her daughter see and sit with a Black Santa.

“We’re always shown this typical image of a white guy coming down the chimney.

I wanted (Selom) to know Santa comes in all images,” said Mawusi Ahelegbe, who said she found the controversy absurd. “I mean, Santa is not a real person, so I don’t understand why Santa has to be white only. And while Santa is not real, I was glad that the real

out two other brands – My-Star Gospel, a 24-hour gospel channel, and an online classifieds company.

Citi 97.3 FM is an Englishspeaking radio station that operates from Adabraka in Accra, the capital of Ghana, on 97.3 megahertz and online via www.citifmonline.com Citi 97.3 FM radio combines comprehensive news backed by

person my daughter associates Santa with is Black.”

Amber Webb agrees. She said she took her 4-year-old son, Gavin Caldwell, to see Santa because she too likes the idea of her child associating Santa with a person who can look similar to him.

“Santa is a magical character, so if we have the opportunity to see this person (Gavin) is looking up to and he looks like Gavin then that’s a positive thing,” said Webb.

Webb said her son took pictures with a white Santa last year and when looking at the two pictures next to one another Caldwell questioned why Santa looked different this

listener-driven on-air programs.

The station has become known as a strong advocate for consumer issues, including road safety, sanitation, education, health care and security among others.

The focus of My-Star Radio is educating and informing listeners. To find out more, visit www. mystarradioonline.com.

Kofi Jacquaye

time around.

“I explained to him that Santa comes in all colors, and this time you got to meet the Santa that looks like you,” said Webb.

While Ahelegbe and Webb – along with hundreds of others who got to meet Santa Larry – saw the experience as positive, unfortunately, throngs of others took offense to the thought of a Black Santa.

Though this is supposed to be a time of love and joy, several whites espousing hatred via the Internet called for a boycott of Mall of America for briefly offering a Black Santa option during the holiday season. At least one area news site had to disable comments because the

tone of those postings went beyond civil discourse and in many instances comments were deemed as racist.

Webb said she chooses not to focus on the Internet criticisms, saying her reasons for bringing her son to see a Black Santa far outweigh any negativity being spewed via various social media sites.

“I’m looking at what benefits my family. My focus is what’s best for my children,” said Webb. “This was a wonderful, positive experience for Gavin.

That’s what’s most important.”

Lynx create fellowship program for female college graduates

The Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx are accepting applications for their newly developed fellowship program, available exclusively to female college graduates.

“The sports industry has historically under-represented women and our goal is to create a more inclusive and diverse workplace,” said Timberwolves and Lynx CEO Ethan Casson.

“We’re committed to closing the gender gap and growing fu-

From banks to beauty products the ‘Buy Black’ movement is real

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Contributor It’s a trend that many are hoping won’t just turn into a passing fad.

Late last month, Essence magazine noted that after years of slowburning idealism, “Buy Black” has seen a community-wide takeoff.

And, as the holiday season moves into full swing, the Buy Black campaign has led many to imagine what would happen if AfricanAmericans – with an estimated $1.2 trillion in spending power – demonstrated allegiance to the 2.6 million Black-owned businesses that exist in America.

“I think the Buy Black initiative

is a good move for the Black community and not just because of dollars and cents,” said Walt Jones III, principal of the SEQ Advisory Group, a Bethesda, Md. based management consulting and advisory firm. “There’s the deeper perspective of reinvesting in our own community and building up the local businesses, some that are owned by our friends, neighbors, and relatives.”

The Buy Black movement has helped Black-owned banks realize substantial gains. In one month, this summer, Washington, D.C.-based Industrial Bank opened more than 1,500 new accounts with deposit balances of about $2.7 million – or more than the number of accounts that are usually opened in a sixmonth period. At Baltimore-based

Harbor Bank, new accounts totaled about $10 million in deposits, said Joseph Haskins Jr., the bank’s president and chairman.

Sonja Thompkins, a business strategist and founder of SincerelySonja.com, said Buy Black is a welcome movement.

“I believe it gives people a sense of pride to see businesses like ours that offer an array of quality products in our own communities,” said Thompkins. “The recent occurrences of injustice make people want to do something.

Everyone’s not protesting in the street. They have chosen to make a statement economically.”

Black buying power has seen an 86 percent increase since 2000 and accounts for 8.7 percent of the nation’s total.

“Buy Black is important because so much of us do not buy Black, and subsequently we watch Black businesses get shut down because of this,” said Gerra Harmon, founder of Affirmative-clapbaction.com. “In the past, African-Americans would overlook Black businesses and we do not want to do so anymore. The (Buy Black movement) is about empowering our people and I think it is a great movement because we are not only letting our communities know, but letting the world know we are worth more than what we have been given in the past.”

Being a Black-owned business in the beauty industry presents a unique set of challenges, said Richelieu Dennis, the founder and CEO of Sundial Brands, the largest Black-owned beauty company in

the country.

“So, I am especially encouraged to see the raised level of consciousness that many Black beauty bloggers are driving to bring attention to an issue that has long been a challenge for Black-owned beauty brands,” said Dennis.

He said the reality is that Black beauty is at the forefront of the beauty revolution; therefore Black businesses should be the No. 1 beneficiary.

“We have to be positioned to serve all consumers as other groups evolve into embracing new, more inclusive beauty standards. It is critical that we capture the market we have created and that we don’t leave it for someone else to capitalize on which has historically been the case,” said Dennis.

ture leaders within our organization. We want this fellowship to give a holistic view of working for a professional sports organization and help the fellow gain the experiences necessary to be prepared for a career

COLLEGE TURN TO 8

LAST DAYS! GET $10 FOR EVERY $50 YOU SPEND IN STORE NOW-12/15 & ONLINE NOW-12/14. GET UP TO $40 IN MACY’S MONEY. SEE BELOW.

TUES, DEC. 13-THURS, DEC. 15

3O%-75% OFF STOREWIDE USE THIS PASS TUES-THURS ‘TIL 2PM

SELECT SALE & CLEARANCE CLOTHING & HOME ITEMS

$1O OFF

YOUR PURCHASE OF $25 OR MORE. MACYS.COM PROMO CODE: MERRY25 EXCLUSIONS MAY DIFFER ON MACYS.COM Excludes ALL: cosmetics/fragrances, Deals of the Day, Doorbusters/web busters, electrics/ electronics, Everyday Values (EDV), furniture/mattresses, Last Act, Macy’s Backstage, rugs, specials, Super Buys, Breville, Coach, Dyson, Fitbit, Frye, Hanky Panky, Jack Spade, Kate Spade, KitchenAid Pro Line, Le Creuset, Levi’s, Locker Room by Lids, Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors Studio.

Michele watches, Natori, Sam Edelman, Samsung watches, Shun, Stuart Weitzman, The North Face, Theory, Tumi, Vitamix, Wacoal, Wolford, Wüsthof, Tory Burch, UGG, littleBits, 3Doodler, Movado Bold, M by Macy’s Marketplace, athletic clothing, shoes & accessories, designer jewelry/ watches/accessories, designer sportswear, gift cards, jewelry trunk shows, previous purchases, select licensed depts., services, special orders, special purchases, tech watches/jewelry/ accessories; PLUS, ONLINE ONLY: baby gear, kids’ shoes, Allen Edmonds, Brahmin,Birkenstock, Hurley, Johnston & Murphy, Merrell, RVCA, Tommy Bahama, toys. Cannot be combined with any savings pass/coupon, extra discount or credit offer except opening a new Macy’s account. Dollar savings are allocated as discounts off each eligible item, as shown on receipt. When you return an item, you forfeit the savings allocated to that item. This coupon has no cash value and may not be redeemed for cash or applied as payment or credit to your account. Purchase must be $25 or more, exclusive of tax and delivery fees.

VALID 12/13-12/15/2016 ‘TIL 2PM. LIMIT ONE PER CUSTOMER.

USE YOUR MACY’S CARD OR THIS PASS TUES-THURS

EXTRA 2O% OFF

SELECT SALE & CLEARANCE CLOTHING PLUS JEWELRY EXTRA 15% OFF SELECT SALE & CLEARANCE WATCHES, SHOES, COATS, SUITS, DRESSES, LINGERIE, SWIM FOR HER, MEN’S SUIT SEPARATES & SPORT COATS & HOME ITEMS MACYS.COM PROMO CODE: MERRY EXCLUSIONS MAY DIFFER ON MACYS.COM Excludes ALL: cosmetics/fragrances, Deals of the Day, Doorbusters/web busters, electrics/ electronics, Everyday Values (EDV), furniture/mattresses, Last Act, Macy’s Backstage, rugs, specials, Super Buys, Breville, Coach, Dyson, Fitbit, Frye, Hanky Panky, Jack Spade, Kate Spade, KitchenAid Pro Line, Le Creuset, Levi’s, Locker Room by Lids, Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors Studio, Michele watches, Natori, Sam Edelman, Samsung watches, Shun, Stuart Weitzman, The North Face, Theory, Tumi, Vitamix, Wacoal, Wolford, Wüsthof, Tory Burch, UGG, littleBits, 3Doodler, Movado Bold, M by Macy’s Marketplace, athletic clothing, shoes & accessories, designer jewelry/ watches, designer sportswear, gift cards, jewelry trunk shows, previous purchases, select licensed depts., services, special orders, special purchases, tech watches/jewelry/accessories; PLUS, ONLINE ONLY: baby gear, kids’ shoes, Allen Edmonds, Brahmin, Birkenstock, Hurley, Johnston & Murphy, Merrell, RVCA, Tommy Bahama, toys. Cannot be combined with any savings pass/coupon, extra discount or credit offer except opening a new Macy’s account. Extra savings % applied to reduced prices.

VALID 12/13-12/15/2016

3-DAY GIFT PRICES IN EFFECT 12/13-12/15/2016. MERCHANDISE WILL BE ON SALE AT THESE AND OTHER SALE PRICES NOW THROUGH 1/2/17, EXCEPT AS NOTED. HOW MACY’S MONEY WORKS: For any single transaction of $50 or more you make in store 12/9-12/15 or online 12/9-12/14/2016, we’ll give you a $10 (spend $50-74.99), $15 (spend $75-99.99), $20 (spend $100-149.99), $30 (spend $150-199.99) or $40 (spend $200 or more) Macy’s Money Reward Card at the register. EXCLUDES THE FOLLOWING PURCHASES: Apple Products, tech watches/jewelry/accessories, gift cards, services & fees, sales tax, macybed, all phone & live chat orders, lease depts, restaurants, international orders, online backorders, e-gifting. USE YOUR MACY’S MONEY REWARD CARD from 12/16-12/24/16. May not be: redeemed for cash, used to purchase Macy’s gift cards or applied as payment or credit to your credit card account. If a purchase used to accumulate Macy’s Money is returned, your return may result in a reduction of the value of your Macy’s Money Reward Card and/or a reduction of your total refund amount. The remaining balance of your Macy’s Money Reward Card will reflect the Macy’s Money amount you qualify for after deducting the returned item(s) from your original purchase amount. For more information, go to macys.com/macysmoney

insightnews.com

Insight News • December 12 - December 18 • Page 5

Page 6 • December 12 - December 18, 2016 • Insight News

insightnews.com

Commentary Clinton gets 2 million more votes than Trump Everyone pretends they don’t notice

By Lauren V. Burk NNPA Newswire Contributor

Imagine if Donald Trump got two million more votes than Hillary Clinton, but by some fluke of electoral college math, Clinton won.

What would Trump be saying? The answer is easy. He’d be saying what he said weeks before Election Day – that the election was rigged against him. Why the same isn’t true the other way around is anyone’s guess.

On Nov. 23, we learned that Clinton received two mil-

lion more popular votes than Trump. Yeah, I know … Trump will be the next president. But at some point someone has to ask, does it make sense that the person who received the most votes isn’t the winner? Does it make sense that Clinton has a wider vote margin over Trump than seven people who eventually became president?

The talk after the election was that the Democratic Party needs an overhaul and all is lost for the party. But the Democrats should be careful not to over-correct. If receiving two million more votes signals a crisis, that’s quite something.

Just imagine that Democrats received 2 million more votes with an imperfect candidate

more specifically President Obama — do instead? As the leader of the party, the president handpicked Hillary Clin-

Hillary Clinton carrying loads of baggage from the past.

The bigger problem for the Democrats is running establishment candidates at the top of the ticket in an age of anti-

establishment politics. The 2008 run of Barack Obama should have taught them the value of change-politics to the American voters. But what did the Democratic Party —

Democrats need to reconsider running establishment candidates at the top of the ticket in an age of anti-establishment politics. ton as his successor, put her in the position of Secretary of State, selected a Democratic National Committee Chair

who wouldn’t get in the way and fought against Vice President Joe Biden and Sen. Bernie Sanders’ efforts during the primaries. And we all know what happened next.

It’s unlikely all of that would happen again, but after President Obama made the DNC an afterthought in favor of his Obama for America (OFA) affinity project, who knows what the future holds.

Lauren Victoria Burke is a political analyst who speaks on politics and African-American leadership. She can be contacted on Twitter at @LVBurke.

Facebook’s ‘Ethnic Affinities’ option violates the Fair Housing Act Black Press of America

By Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., President and CEO, NNPA Racism is a malignant, powerful, and harmful reality for millions of persons of color throughout the world.

Here, inside the United States, racism is institutionalized and we have the evidence that this dreadful, racially discriminatory system of oppression now has been digitized thanks to Facebook.

We must oppose all forms, nuances, and modes of racism.

I am defining “digital racism” as the deliberate and systematic exclusion and discrimination of people from any Internet access, benefit or policy-making procedure based on race, color, ethnicity, or any other social or cultural factor.

I know when this is read, some of you will be shocked while others will be in some form of denial. Such was the case when I first coined the term “environmental racism” more than 30 years ago. But the truth is the truth. And the truth is therapeutic.

Racial and ethnic cleaning at Facebook is the manifestation of digital racism on one of the most powerful social media platforms in the world. The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) is opposed to racial and ethnic discrimina-

tion. We are alarmed and we resolutely join with the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) in demanding that Facebook

sent a letter to Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Facebook, concerning this issue.

“We are writing to express

Benjamin F. Chavis says that the online and digital worlds should not be permissive of racism. stop engaging in racially discriminatory practices.

Earlier this month, the CBC

our deep concerns with reports that Facebook’s ‘Ethnic Affinities’ advertising customization

feature allows for advertisers to exclude specific racial and ethnic groups when placing housing advertising,” stated the CBC. The CBC letter was signed by Rep. Robin Kelly (D-Ill.), Rep. Emanuel Cleaver (D-Mo.), Rep. Yvette Clarke (D-N.Y.), and Rep. G.K. Butterfield (D-N.C.), the chair of the CBC. Their joint statement concluded, “This is in direct violation of the Fair Housing Act of 1968, and it is our strong desire to see Facebook address this issue immediately.”

The Fair Housing Act of 1968 says it is illegal “to make, print, publish, or cause to be made, printed, or published any notice, statement, or advertisement, with respect to the sale or rental of a dwelling that indicates any preference, limita-

tion, or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.” The enactment of the Fair Housing Act of 1968 was a milestone accomplishment of the Civil Rights Movement.

“By allowing online advertisers to promote or market a community or home for the purpose of sale to select an ‘ethnic affinity’ as part of their advertising campaign, Facebook is complicit in promoting restrictive housing practices,” the CBC letter stated.

This is clearly a violation of the law. The NNPA agrees with the CBC. This practice must be stopped immediately.

Today, we all should remain vigilant and committed to stand

PRESS TURN TO 7

fresh • local • organic Your neighborhood source for local and organic foods and wellness products

2823 E. Franklin Ave. | Minneapolis & 317 E. 38th St. | Minneapolis w w w.seward.coop

insightnews.com

Insight News • December 12 - December 18 • Page 7

Grammys From 1 lineage will find out if they bring home the Grammy hardware on Feb. 12.

For each, this is not their first experience with the Grammys, but in previous years those experiences were shared, whereas this time around the groups are being recognized solely for their independent efforts.

“It’s always wonderful to get nominated and to have been in this business for 25 years and still be relevant; it’s a blessing,” said Mint Condition bass player, writer and vocalist, Ricky Kinchen. “We’ve been able to have Top 10 records in three straight decades, so that along with this latest recognition is amazing.”

Mint Condition was previously nominated for a Grammy for “Not My Daddy,” a song that appeared on albums of both Kelly Price and Mint Condition.

In one of the most anticipated

Press From 6 up and speak out against all instances of racial and ethnic discrimination. Facebook needs to right this wrong. The online and digital worlds should not

Voting From 1 During a recent forum on the 2016 presidential election on Capitol Hill, voting rights advocates and civil rights leaders expressed concerns about the role that restrictive voting laws might have played in the outcome.

The forum also tackled the problems faced by AfricanAmericans and Latinos on Election Day.

albums ever, KING’s “We Are King” lived up to the hype, earning the group its second Grammy nomination. KING earned a Grammy for its contribution to Robert Glasper Experience’s “Black Radio,” which took home the trophy for Best R&B Album in 2012.

Comprised of Minneapolis natives, Paris Strother and Amber Strother, and Los Angeles native, Amber Bias, KING took the soul music world by storm in 2011 with the group’s three-song EP release, “The Story.” The EP caught the attention of many, including his royal badness himself, Prince, who took the trio of young ladies under his wing. Prior to his death in April, KING had plans to perform with Prince at Paisley Park. Paris Strother said earning a Grammy nomination for the long-awaited project further validates the group’s decision to not rush the project.

“We’re so thrilled. It feels so amazing, especially as indie artists. The album was made in our home studio, completely independently written, recorded,

produced, released and selffunded,” said Paris Strother, who was touring in Tokyo at the time of the announcement. “I found out on Twitter because my phone kept getting notifications. (It’s) such a surreal moment, I didn’t believe it at first.”

Paris Strother said with the nomination KING is living up to Prince’s dream for the group.

“One of the first things Prince said to us was that he wanted us to get the Grammy for the album, and we’re so proud that he got to hear the finished version before he so sadly departed,” said Paris Strother. “It’s incredible to think that his intention for us could be coming true.”

To bring home the trophy KING is competing witgh reigning queen and princess – Beyoncé and Rihanna – who are nominated in the category along with Anderson .Paak and Gallant.

Alongside Mint Condition; BJ the Chicago Kid, Lalah Hathaway, Mya and Terrace Martin are vying for Best R&B Album.

be permissive of racism.

With all the technological advances to hopefully ensure that the quality of life of all people will ultimately be enhanced in the U.S. and throughout the world, we must strive to identify, call out and stop racism wherever it may arise. Therefore, we call upon Facebook to stop its digital racism and its

“Ethnic Affinities” discriminatory program.

“I did not get a call from any of the white voting districts,” said civil rights attorney Barbara Arnwine, the president of the Transformative Justice Coalition.

Some panelists even speculated that the election was stolen due to the weakened Voting Rights Act inability to fully protect the right to vote.

“I think what happened in this election is that voter suppression and manipulation and the voting rolls and every other kind of ID law – I think we saw, basically, a stolen election,” said Ben Ptashnik, the executive director of the National Election Defense Coali-

tion.

Ptashnik told the packed room on Capitol Hill that Donald Trump was right when he said that the election was rigged, but not in the way the Republican candidate, now president-elect had perceived it. Ptashnik also spoke on the issue of voting machines being proprietary in such a way that only allow the vendors to fix them, if necessary.

The Rev. Dr. William Barber, who led the “Moral Mondays” effort in North Carolina as the president of the NAACP’s branch in that state, had a lot to say about how the strategy

Give the gift of thanks this season.

Give thanks for the healthy kids in your life, and give to those who are not.

Support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® at any Best Buy® store.

Donate Now

Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. is president and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) and can be reached at dr.bchavis@nnpa. org.

WE WIN INSTITUTE PRESENTS

St. Jude patient Mohammad

©2016 ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

© 2016 Best Buy. All rights reserved.

Missing money?

We’ll help you find it.

DEC. 26 | 7PM | THE ORDWAY Grammy Award Winning

SOUNDS OF BLACKNESS THOMASINA PETRUS

TONIA HUGHES

BLACK STORYTELLERS ALLIANCE VOICES OF CULTURE

LONGSHOT

TAMIKO FRENCH

Common types of unclaimed property include: • Uncashed checks • Forgotten bank accounts • Insurance settlements

Celebrate the Kwanzaa principles through student performances of dance, drum, and storytelling.

Featuring

T MYCHAEL RAMBO as Master of Ceremonies

GET TICKETS AT ORDWAY.ORG 2016 SPONSORS:

This performance is made possible in part by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation

we-win.org

www.missingmoney.com unclaimed.property@state.mn.us

Page 8 • December 12 - December 18, 2016 • Insight News

insightnews.com

Lifestyle

Kwanzaa for all

By Titilayo Bediako Kwanzaa is the AfricanAmerican holiday acknowledging the achievements of Black people; yet it is much more.

This celebration is based on a seven principle value system called the Nguzo Saba. These principles invite people of all nationalities to come and celebrate African-American greatness and their own eminence.

WE WIN Institute is celebrating Kwanzaa Dec. 26 at the Ordway Theater, 345 Washington St., St. Paul.

WE WIN Institute youth, with the help of Grammy award winning Sounds of Blackness, T Mychael Rambo, Thomasina Petrus, Tonia Hughes and other entertainers will all be a part of this musical celebration.

This is WE WIN Institute’s 20th anniversary of sharing this African-American holiday with Minnesota. WE WIN works with youth ages 5-18, teaching them the importance of knowing themselves, their culture and community.

Understanding Kwanzaa The first principle of Kwanzaa

Photos courtesy of WeWin Institute

WE WIN is in its 20th year of celebrating Kwanzaa. This year’s celebration, featuring the music of Sounds of Blackness, T Mychael Rambo, Thomasina Petrus, Tonia Hughes and others, takes place Dec. 26 at the Ordway Theater, 345 Washington St., St. Paul. is Umoja. It means to help each other, to love and cherish your family, your community and your nation.

Kujichagulia (Koo-g-chagoo-lee-ah) means selfdetermination, which is the second principle of Kwanzaa and is critical for development.

It means we are all responsible for learning who we are as a people. It also means to develop goals and the strategies needed to reach them.

Ujima (Ooh-G-mah) is the third principle of Kwanzaa, which means collective work and responsibility.

Ujamaa (Ooh-jah-mah),

meaning cooperative economics, is the fourth principle of Kwanzaa. Ujamaa encourages creating our own businesses and develop a pathway to work and profit together.

Nia (Nee-ah) is the fifth principle of Kwanzaa and it means purpose.

The sixth principle of Kwanzaa

is Kuumba (Kah-Oom-bah), which means creativity. Kuumba is all the ways we dance, sing and all the creative ways we bring happiness to our homes and our communities.

Imani (E-mah-nee) is the seventh and most important principle of Kwanzaa. Imani means faith. Faith means to

believe in ourselves and our ability to accomplish all our hopes, dreams and plans. With faith, everything is possible.

For more information on the WE WIN celebration of Kwanzaa, go to www.ordway. org.

Man Talk: Getting to happy Man Talk

By Timothy Houston “Merry Christmas” and “Happy New Year” are familiar sayings that are known to all, marking the season of giving followed by the beginning of a new year full of hope and promise.

Unfortunately, this is not true for all. For some, the word happy

is a distant memory of times long ago, and for others it is a present reminder of sorrow and depression. According to some experts, more people suffer from depression during the holidays than any other time of the year. Now more than ever, it is necessary for all of us to take deliberate actions to aid in our quest for happiness.

Everyone deserves to be happy.

The pursuit of happiness is the sovereign right of every man and woman endowed to them by God, and it should be exercised by all.

The word “pursue” implies that one must go after it. Deliberate actions are required to battle the things that work against our happiness. We will all experiences

life’s ups and down. For some, it may be as temporary as the loss of a job while for others; it may be as permanent as the loss of a loved one. Therefore, we must all take action to prepare our hearts for these unknowns. You can get to happy.

To get to happy, you must make room in your heart. When I think of this I am reminded of the words of my favorite Christmas carol, Joy to the world, the Lord is come/let earth receive her king/Let every heart prepare him room. Every heart must prepare him room. This requires you to get rid of anger, bitterness and wrath and make room for forgiveness. This will bring joy,

happiness, peace and good will towards men. The world is better when the hearts of men and women become better.

Also, you must simplify your life. No more broken things in your life. Clean out the clutter from your physical and emotional closets. Say goodbye to friends, clothing, collectibles and conversations that do not add value. Get rid of old relationships and the emotional baggage that comes along with them. If you do this, your new year will be full of new possibilities.

Next, you must think happy thoughts. Your thoughts create your environment. They are the building blocks for your actions.

Your thoughts are the greatest defense against life’s adversity.

When negative things happen that are beyond your control, remember, you still get to choose your response. Always think the best. A line from a poem written

by Walter Wintle says it like this.

“If you think you are defeated you are. If you think you dare not, you don’t. If you like to win, but you think you can’t, it almost a cinch that you won’t. Life’s battle doesn’t always go to the stronger or faster man, but sooner or later the man who wins is the one who thinks he can.”

Finally, to get to happy, you must make peace with God. This is a spiritual necessity. The peace

of God will bring peace with others. Without internal peace, there can be no external contentment.

Peace with God brings about peace with all. The pursuit of happiness is the pursuit of peace.

During this Christmas season, may you find peace on earth and good will toward men.

Timothy Houston is an author, minister, and motivational speaker who is committed to guiding positive life changes in families and communities. For questions, comments or more information, go to www.tlhouston.com.

2016 Lexus CT 200h

By Frank S. Washington DETROIT – The 2016 Lexus CT 200h is a great car but it is a tough sell.

2016 Lexus CT 200h F SPORT profileThis Lexus is a hybrid. It was powered by a 1.8 liter four cylinder engine coupled with a 650 volt electric motor/generator.

Combined, the propulsion unit makes 134 horsepower. The gasoline engine made 105 lb. ft.

of torque.

It had a second electric motor that acted as a starter and a generator to charge the Nickel Metal Hydride battery. The car had a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Lexus CT 200h had an EPA rating of 43 mpg in the city, 40 mpg on the highway and 42 mpg combined.

The CT 200h had a drive mode selector. Normal was an essentially linear throttle response that gave natural progressive power is the way that

Park it Here for an Exciting Career

Are you looking for a great place to start or advance your career? Look no further than Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board! The nationally rated #1 park system is looking for talented people to add to our growing organization.

Check out current full-time, part-time and seasonal opportunities or sign up to recieve email notifications about future openings at www.minneapolisparks.org/jobs.

An equal opportunity employer

Lexus put it. That’s where we left the car for pretty much all of our week-long test drive.

However a couple of times we did switch to sport mode. It gave a quicker throttle response time and the steering tightened a bit. With the ECO mode, the air conditioning and throttle response were reduced according to the pedal angle to emphasize fuel economy. And EV mode allowed the CT to be driven short distances using just the electric motors.

The powertrain on our test car was responsive, although the car wasn’t quick. The CVT was a little loud under hard acceleration. But handling was good and the CT was imbued with the legendary quiet ride for which Lexus is known.

2016 Lexus CT 200h interiorOur test vehicle had a MacPherson strut front system with a fully independent double-wishbone rear suspension. A lateral performance damper system was designed to absorb and minimize body vibrations to offer a more linear steering feel and further enhanced ride comfort.

The CT 200h stayed planted on the road, there was very little

noise, vibration or harshness and the car responded to driver input quickly. Of course, as all hybrids do, the car had regenerative braking to recharge the battery pack and it was equipped with 17-inch wheels.

This Lexus didn’t look like a Lexus. It was small and cubed.

The CT 200h did have the spindle grille that was flanked by headlight clusters on both sides and set higher than the grille itself. The side view mirrors were small with LED turn signals.

The tail lamps had a Lexus L-shape design. The rear bumper and finned rear undercover smoothed airflow and that enhanced stability and bettered fuel economy.

Inside, the dash board was divided into two zones. Lexus called the upper zone the display zone. There was a seven-inch multi-display screen. The lower operation zone was where the shift lever and system controls were housed.

The front seats had pronounced side bolsters that provided additional support. There was lots of metallic finish and there were also plenty of soft touch materials. Ecological plastics

College

ship sales, corporate partnership activation, business intelligence and live programming and entertainment. The experience will also include oneon-one mentoring, executivelevel coaching and a glimpse into basketball operations.

Candidates will need to submit a resume, video essay and two letters of recommendation to be considered. To be eligible, candidates must currently be in

From 4 in any area of the business.”

The fellow will participate in eight, six-week business rotations. The business units will include marketing, public relations, ticket sales, membership services, corporate partner-

2016 Lexus CT 200h with 30 percent plant-based Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) materials were used for the floor mats, deck side and deck board trim.

2016 Lexus CT 200h F SPORT rear1The CT 200h was also more than 80 percent recyclable and it was designed to be easily dismantled. Recycle marks have been placed on the front, rear and tailgate trim to facilitate optimum recycling.

The car was equipped with the premium package which included a navigation system, auto-diming rearview mirror, rain-sensing wipers and four-way power passenger seat and heated front seats. It had LED headlights, fog lights, daytime running lights and

headlight washers.

The navigation system came with a rearview camera; there was a premium audio system, remote touch controller, Enform safety, service, remote, destinations and app suite. This 2016 Lexus 200h was equipped with park assist and it had a moonroof.

The options pushed the price from the base of $31,250 to $38,495. Add a $940 freight charge and the total came to $39,435. That was not a bad price for this car. The problem is the competition; not from other luxury brands but from Lexus which makes five other hybrids.

But if you want a different kind of Lexus, the 2016 CT 200h might fit the bill.

their fourth year of college or a recent graduate of a four-year program in Minnesota. Applications will be accepted until Jan. 13and are available at www. nbateamjobs.teamworkonline. com/teamwork/r.cfm?i=105826.

The term of the fellowship will run from May 31, 2017 through April 30, 2018. Along with an hourly pay rate, fellows will have access to company benefits.

The Timberwolves and Lynx

are implementing additional efforts to create a more diverse and inclusive work environment, including a new hiring guideline that requires all hiring managers to interview a minority and female candidate for any open positions in the company and a mandatory conscious inclusion training for every employee.

insightnews.com

Insight News • December 12 - December 18 • Page 9

Community Minnesota African American Heritage Calendar showcases contributions

African American Leadership Forum

Rev. Billy Russell

Morris Goodwin

For the 11th year, the Minnesota African-American Heritage Calendar Award Committee (MAAHCC), a component of the Progressive Center for Educational and Economic Development Foundation, has produced its annual calendar to showcase African-Americans’ accomplishments with roots in Minnesota.

The calendar recognizes individuals and entities for their community works. This year’s theme, “Community

At Large,” specifically recognizes 12 individuals for their contributions that have inspired the dreams of thousands of Minnesotans.

Honorees for the 2017 calendar are African American Leadership Forum, Hallie Q Brown Center, Greg Coleman, Jamil Ford, Morris Goodwin, the late Gleason Glover, Lisa Holyfield, Debbie Montgomery, the Rev. Billy Russell, Stella Whitney-West, Steve Winfield, Stephanie Wright and Mychael Wright

and Rondo Avenue Inc. The unveiling ceremony and celebration will be held Jan. 27 at 7:30 p.m. at Progressive Family Life Center, 1505 Burns Ave., St. Paul.

MAAHCC hopes to place the calendar in Minnesota’s school classrooms and libraries through the MAAHC Adopt a

Stella Whitney-West

Jamil Ford

Stephanie and Mychael Wright

School campaign. The goal is to use the calendar to generate discussion about African-

Americans contributions and history among teachers and students. The cost of this

year’s calendar is $17 each or $12 for bulk purchases of 10 or more.

Cuba

the countries with the highest literacy rates in Latin America.

Prior to the revolution, people of color were marginalized and had had few opportunities for social mobility. According to Orta, that changed with Castro’s ascension to power.

The new social and political alignments were not welcomed by everyone in Cuba, and Castro’s emergence caused hundreds to flee as refugees to the United States, which offered them asylum. One of these that came as a refugee was Allen, a Cuban-born Minnesota businessman. Allen comes from the Cuban town of Cienfuegos. He recounted that his mother and father fought

to overthrow former Cuban strongman, Fulgencio Batista, Castro’s predecessor. After the revolution was won, Allen said the educated middleclass was disheartened as Castro placed foreign people as head of ministries.

“It was like replacing one dictatorship with another,” said Allen, emphasizing that the revolution was not social but political, and as such it failed to deliver what the middle class was expecting.

Cuban-born Fonts, who founded Dialogue One, a company with more than 20 years managing cross-cultural communication services, brought Cuba’s situation into

perspective saying, “The foundation has been built; now Cubans need to experience what a democracy is.” He also said the embargo placed on Cuba by the United States did not produce the results that the U.S. sought.

During the past five years, illness had relegated Castro to the background of political relations.

His brother, Raul Castro, who assumed leadership duties in Cuba, has undertaken initiatives to reconcile U.S.-Cuba relations that could put an end to the embargo. Last year President Barack Obama visited Havana, showing promise of a cordial relationship developing

between the two countries.

During Fidel Castro’s era, Cuba developed in specific areas such as education and healthcare, which became unparalleled in Latin America.

Yet, other areas are still undeveloped.

Isa Perez, a Minnesota-born Puerto Rican, reminisced about the revolution stating Puerto Rico and Cuba were together in the fight for freedom and equality, like two wings on an eagle. Puerto Rico faltered and Cuba was left to stand against the United States on its own, said Isa Perez.

Isa Perez was in Cuba on Nov. 25 recording an album when Fidel Castro died. She

talked about her experience in Cuba during the nine days of mourning honoring Fidel Castro’s passing. She said the sadness of the people could be felt in the atmosphere, saying no music was allowed and all clubs were shut down.

Isa Perez composed a song that spoke to the topic, emphasizing finding the balance in development.

“I want my people to live in unity,” said Isa Perez.

“This is nothing new to me.

I say, spiritually, everyone has a balance. Find tu (your) balance.”

not interested in having a political seat for sake of having a political seat.”

Jeremiah Ellison said key issues he intends to address if elected are public safety and policing, economic empowerment and environmental justice. When it comes to public safety, many may remember that during the protests over the police killing of Clark, unarmed, Jeremiah Ellison had a police rifle raised to his head as he stood with his hands raised. The photo of that incident went viral and Rep. Keith Ellison called the

police actions “agonizing.”

In discussing economic development, Jeremiah Ellison said while economic development is coming to North Minneapolis, he doesn’t want to see the growth to come at the expense of longtime residents.

“We don’t want to see the people that live here now get pushed out due to ‘natural market forces,’” said Jeremiah Ellison. “We want improvement that doesn’t displace.”

Party Chairman Raymond Buckley and South Carolina Democratic Party Chairman Jaime Harrison for the DNC post.

Ellison said while he is pursuing the DNC job he remains committed to the residents of the 5th District.

“Serving my neighbors in Congress and fighting for them has been the best job I’ve ever had.

Until the DNC Chair election, I plan to continue doing just that,” said Ellison in a statement.

From 1 Orta spoke about the identity the Cuban people assumed after Castro rose to power.

He said people identify themselves as “Fidelistas” rather than communists, which meant a spirit of equal opportunities. He said Castro’s ascension realigned the social classes in a way that benefited all. According to the rapper, illiterate people received free education, which in turn placed Cuba as one of

Ellison From 1 proved to be an ineffective and unresponsive leader.

“There was poor leadership and a degree of callousness during the Fourth Precinct protests,” said Ellison. “You don’t have to agree with the protest, but you still have to show some humanity and recognize one of your neighbors was just killed. We need leaders

Seat From 1 said Hayden, who holds a senior leadership role in the Minnesota

Lisa Holyfield

who care.”

Another factor in Ellison’s decision to run is Yang’s opposition to a $15 minimum wage in Minneapolis.

“We have one of the only wards where we’re represented by someone who was against the $15 minimum wage. He (Yang) voted against commissioning a report … just a report,” said Ellison.

“That in my mind is a direct vote against the Northside. We need a representative that understands policy better; that understands people better.”

Jeremaih Ellison

This is Ellison’s first foray into the political arena, but the candidate does carry significant name recognition. Twenty-seven year old Ellison is the son of Rep. Keith Ellison (MN-5) and Minneapolis Public Schools board member, Kim Ellison. Jeremiah Ellison said he’s not running on his name, but on his works.

“Every vote … every bit of support … I’ve got to earn on my own,” said Jeremiah Ellison.

“People need to know that I’m invested in the future of the Northside. This is my home. I’m

Senate DFL Caucus. “The work I’m doing in the State Legislature translates well to what we need in Congress and would help in continuing the great leadership Rep. Keith Ellison has been able to give to us for the past 10 years.”

Sen. Bobby Joe Champion (DFL59) said he is not ruling out a run for Congress, saying he hasn’t given it much thought and wasn’t “putting the cart before the horse.”

Ellison issued a statement last week saying he would give up his

seat if he is chosen to be the head of the Democratic Party saying, “Whoever wins the DNC chair race faces a lot of work, travel, planning and resource raising. I will be ‘all-in’ to meet the challenge.” Ellison is up against New Hampshire Democratic

Classifieds

Courtesy of Jeremiah Ellison

Phone: 612.588.1313

Fax: 612.588.2031

Email: info@insightnews.com

Communications & Administration Assistant

Buyer 1 Salary Range: $18.66-$26.99/per hour; $38,962-$56,355/annually The Management Materials Division seeks to fill a Buyer 1 position. This position will provide leadership and service to government entities in the acquisition of products and services in a social and environmentally responsible fashion.

Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree and one year of experience in purchasing, developing/evaluating specifications, and issuing purchase orders/contracts; or equivalent combination of education and experience. A sample of your purchasing work may be requested. Bachelor’s degree with an analytical, legal or communications focus preferred.

To Apply: go to http://www.mn.gov/careers and apply to the Job ID # 9748.

Closing Date: 12/20/2016 Contact: If you have questions about the position, contact Nella Austin at nella.austin@state.mn.us or 651.201.8005.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The Minneapolis Parks Foundation is seeking a Communications & Administration Assistant.

This position will assist with a variety of duties, providing support primarily to the Director of Communications & Strategic Partnerships and to the Executive Director. This position is fulltime, hourly, and benefited. For the full job description and how to apply, visit https://mplsparksfoundation. org/blog/ and scroll to the November 30 posting.

The application deadline is December 16. EOE.

TUTORING OPPORTUNITIES Volunteer with Kids at East Side Learning Center. At East Side Learning Center build a life changing relationship by meeting the individual needs of diverse children on St. Paul’s East Side through one-on-one reading tutoring with K-2nd graders. Tutoring opportunities available Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Volunteers tutor a minimum of one child, once a week for about 45 minutes. Training, materials, and on-site support are provided.

Please contact the Volunteer Coordinator at 651-793-7364 for more information on this or other volunteer opportunities or visit www. eastsidelearningcenter.org

Information Desk Attendant Be the smiling face that provides a warm welcome, and general information to visitors of the Ramsey County Government Center East. Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age. For more information, Contact Ramsey County— Volunteer Services at 651-266-4090 or e-mail HumanServicesVolunteer@co.ramsey.mn.us.

Cookie Cart Volunteer Opportunities Cookie Cart welcomes individuals and groups of up to 25 to volunteer in the bakery at any time of the year and especially during the busy holiday season – this year the bakery expects to bake approximately 25,000 dozens of cookies between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Volunteer shifts are available weekdays, weekday evenings, and Saturday and Sunday. It’s a fun way for family, friends and colleagues to give back to the community while working alongside the talented and dedicated Cookie Cart teens. For information about volunteer opportunities, contact Sara Ernst at 612-843-1942 or sernst@cookiecart.org.

Page 10 • December 12 - December 18, 2016 • Insight News

insightnews.com

Darnell Davis

Ashley DuBose

Paris Bennett

In addition to being a statesman, Sen. Bobby Joe Champion (DFL-59) is a music aficionado.

Champion’s love for music will be on display next Tuesday (Dec. 20) at the Cowles Center for Dance and the Performing Arts, 528 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, as he presents Music for the Holidays – a free concert featuring Ashley DuBose, Paris Bennett, Darnell Davis & the Remnant, Wayne Starks, Tonya Hughes, Ginger Commodore, Robert Robinson, Jesse Larson, Sarah Renner and The Hurst Family Experience.

The event kicks off with a 6 p.m. reception with performances starting at 7:30 p.m. Those with transportation needs can call (651) 296-9246.

This event is co-sponsored by Insight News.

Letter to the editor In 2016 … almost 2017, it’s rare that newspapers receive Letters to the Editor that are actual letters.

Nowadays, almost all communications that come into the office arrive via someone’s email inbox. But earlier this month Insight News received an actual letter. It was addressed to the Marcus Garvey House – the given name of our North Minneapolis office – and in red print it was stamped “Mailed from the Hennepin County Adult Corrections Facility.” The letter was from Patreacia McCloud. McCloud explained that she was a writer hoping to publish some of her works and reached out to us for advice and/or assistance. She also explained that she grew up in foster care after being separated from her five siblings at the age of 12, which is when she began writing to deal with her pain. Along with the letter were some examples of her work. In reading them, we decided her voice was one that should be heard; therefore we are publishing one of her poems, “Beyond Trauma.”

I was once that little girl trapped in the closet Closed in with fear, with no right direction Covert to the world I knew nothing about Having a lost identity I dare to figure out All I could do was take my anger out So enclosed, but yet ajar I refuse to be stigmatized by my upbringing To understand and be aware that it was inevitable In coming to be content with that and becoming less rancor Forgive without the need to forget To move on, hold on, and stay strong For I know too I have done wrong I’m letting go of pain to stay sane Surrendering with no fear of judgment Setting my inner child free So I become the woman in me Dropping the unwanted luggage that’s holding me back Beyond all measures this will get better It’s OK to start a new chapter Beyond Trauma –

Patreacia McCloud

© Can Stock Photo / thesupe87

insightnews.com

Insight News • December 12 - December 18 • Page 11

Courtesy of “The Steve Harvey Morning Show”

Steve Harvey is set to host a reboot of “Showtime at the Apollo.”

Steve Harvey returns to the Apollo for ‘Showtime’

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Contributor

Steve Harvey has a lot on his plate these days.

The comedian, who is beloved by millions, has been busy preparing for the reboot of the classic “Showtime at the Apollo.”

The first episode of the reboot aired Dec. 5 on FOX. Harvey’s schedule also includes the his popular syndicated morning radio show, hosting the “Family Feud” and “Little Big Shots,” and recently cutting a new deal to produce a new daily and yet to be titled television show to be distributed by NBC Universal.

Working non-stop is just what the legendary “King of Comedy” prefers.

“Steve just keeps it real all of the time,” said his longtime friend and former “Steve Harvey Show” costar, Cedric the Entertainer.

“We’ve been friends a long time. We have a good time, all of the time.”

Earlier this year, Harvey revealed in a candid interview with People magazine that, while he’s amassed a fortune north of $100 million, he was once homeless and living out of his Ford Tempo.

“It kills me when I hear very successful people say, ‘I always knew I would get here,’” said Harvey. “I didn’t.

I always hoped I would get somewhere, but this is above and beyond. My imagination didn’t even go this big.”

Last month, a Los Angeles Times feature on Harvey explored how the star has become the new “hardest working man in show business.”

The newspaper noted what happened when

the taping for “Steve Harvey’s Funderdome,” an upcoming “Shark Tank”style ABC TV competition series in which two entrepreneurs vie for the approval of a live audience, had just completed.

As the crowd started to leave the Television City studio in Hollywood, Harvey, the host made it clear he was not done with them yet.

The entertainer, who has become a one-man force of nature in the past 15 years with a seemingly endless cavalcade of successes, wanted to follow the fun with his message of faith.

“If you think you can make it without God, your (behind) is trippin’,” the sharply dressed entertainer with the thick mustache and shaved head declared.

“I imagined, when I was 10 years old, that I would be on TV one day, and I believed in God and got successful.

You’ve got to believe. Don’t ever give up.”

In his earlier life, Harvey worked as an auto mechanic, a carpet cleaner and for the United States Postal Service as a mail carrier. Harvey began doing standup comedy in Cleveland in the late 1980s and, after becoming a finalist in the famed Johnnie Walker National Comedy Search in 1990, he was picked to host “It’s Showtime at the Apollo.”

He scored his first television role on the shortlived ABC show, “Me and the Boys,” before hitting pay-dirt with the successful and popular “The Steve Harvey Show,” which ran for seven seasons.

Joining Cedric the Entertainer, D.L. Hughley and Bernie Mac, Harvey launched a comedy tour in 1997 called “The Original Kings of Comedy,” which led to a feature film directed

by Spike Lee.

Harvey went on to appear in several movies and, in 2009, penned the bestseller, “Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man,” which was optioned into a big screen hit.

The “Showtime at the Apollo” reboot is expected to feature performances from established stars and the legendary “Amateur Night” segment.

“I’m excited to be going back home to the Apollo to celebrate the history of this great theater,” said Harvey in a statement. “I have great memories from my time there, and this is going to be a homecoming party that you won’t want to miss.”

A second “Showtime at the Apollo” special is already scheduled for early next year with aspirations of the talent showcase returning regularly.

WINTER2016-17 A N O R D WAY PRODUCTION

TICKETS ON SALE

NOW

SOMI

DEC 8-31*

JAN 27 +

SPONSORED BY FRAUENSHUH MEDIA PARTNER PIXEL FARM CREATIVE STUDIO

“THE ULTIMATE ELVIS TRIBUTE ARTIST EVENT”

FEB 12

OYATE OKODAKICIYAPI:

AN EVENING OF CONTEMPORARY DANCE

MAR 4+

GROUPS 10+ SAVE BIG 651.224.4222 TTY651.282.3100

ORDWAY.ORG

* MUSICAL THEATER SERIES SPONSORED BY

+ WORLD MUSIC & DANCE SERIES SPONSORED BY

Page 12 • December 12 - December 18, 2016 • Insight News

insightnews.com

Harry Colbert, Jr.

Harry Colbert, Jr.

Sylvia’s 50th Dr. Sylvia Bartley, global director in the Medical Education division of Medtronic, program director at Medtronic Philanthropy and co-chair of the African American Leadership Forum, recently celebrated her 50th birthday in style during a private event at the Crowne Plaza in downtown Minneapolis.

With a room full of well-wishers, Bartley, showing off her red dress, partied to the sounds of soul singer Dahlia Jones and DJ Sxooba. Photographers captured a bit of the celebration.

(Top left) Among those wishing Sylvia Bartley (center red) a happy birthday were some of Medtronic’s past and present, from left to right, Tonya Hampton, George Omae, Kelly Robinson, Marcie Dewalt, Ravyn Miller, Valerie Turner and Samantha Pree-Stinson.

(Bottom left) Being a star in business and community, several community members came out to party and celebrate with Sylvia Bartley. Among them were (left of Bartley) Cheryl Mayberry, Bill English, Eric Mahmoud, (right of Bartley) Carolyn Smallwood, Sondra Samuels and Teto Wilson.

Harry Colbert, Jr.

(Large right) Sylvia Bartley (left) poses with African American Leadership Forum executive director, Jeffrey Hassan (center) and party organizer Sharon Smith-Akinsanya.

(Right insert) Also on hand to wish Sylvia Bartley (center) a happy 50th were Metropolitan Economic Development Association CEO Gary Cunningham (left) and Minneapolis Mayor Betsy Hodges.

Courtesy of Sylvia Bartley