Insight News ::: 01.19.15 by Insight News, Inc

5 for ’15: Minnesota R&B/ soul’s top five new prospects

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Insight News January 19 - January 25, 2015

Vol. 42 No. 3 • The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com

Mayo Clinic Square connects community to world-class sports medicine Mayo helps launch round five of the Insight-2-Health Fitness Challenge By Carmen Robles Associate Editor Afrodescendientes The Mayo Clinic, Rochester’s world-renowned medical center has brought its “Mayo Model of Care” for patients in sports medicine to the Twin Cities. The state of the art facility in the former Block E retail complex in the heart of downtown Minneapolis, is now providing every aspect of quality care in sports medicine, except surgery. The new Mayo Clinic Sports Medicine Facilities is a partnership with pro basketball’s

Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx. No public funds were used on the $50 million dollar renovation which includes a street level corridor, first floor with restaurants, second floor skyway level with office space and some service retail, including team stores for The Wolves and Lynx. The third floor houses the 20,000 square-foot gym. There are practice courts, a workout area and numerous amenities including a concierge service to help navigate patient’s visits.

MAYO TURN TO 8

Mayo Clinic Square gym (rendering)

Thomas Jefferson: Quintessential white supremacist Notes on the struggle By Professor Mahmoud El -Kati

Part III of III To intentionally overemphasize the point that very clever people, and not the simple-minded invented the idea of “race,” I chose to select an American intellectual giant. He was “a great American.” A man whose words to some is equal to Holy Scripture. He was without

question, one of the most brilliant intellects this republic has ever nourished. President John F. Kennedy said of this man that his single mind exceeded the brains of all 12 of his brilliant cabinet members. This man is perceived by the great majority of Americans as just below that of angels. And yet I have chosen this man to be

one of the examples and greatest exponents of the American brand of racism. He is the quintessential “white supremacist,” and by racism I mean “white supremacy.” There is but one racist doctrine ruling this country and that is the doctrine of “white supremacy.” And the winner is, Thomas Jefferson.

I shall not make an attempt to speak for him, since he speaks so well for himself. Following are excerpts from, Thomas Jefferson’s Book, “Notes on the State of Virginia” published 1787. This is the only full-length book that Jefferson wrote. Here he expressed his thinking on “race.” Jefferson wrote, “The first

difference which strikes us is that of color, whether the black of the Negro resides in the reticular membrane between the skin and the scarfskin, or the scarfskin itself, whether it proceeds from color of the blood, or color of bile

RACE TURN TO 8

Remarkable progress five years after Haiti earthquake earthquake in 2010, CDC has made significant investment in the national laboratory and disease surveillance systems in Haiti” said David Lowrance, M.D., M.P.H., director of CDC’s Haiti office. “These systems and capacities are vital to preventing, detecting, and responding to public health threats before they become crises and to protecting the health of the Haitian people and the global community.” Disease control efforts by CDC and its national and international partners have led to significant advances in efforts to

Mshale

Bill Blazer

African business owners key to state’s future

HAITI TURN TO 8

By Faiza Abbas Mahamud, Mshale Associate Editor MINNEAPOLIS – The Minnesota Somali Chamber of Commerce held its first annual celebration dinner Saturday, January 10 at the Safari Restaurant in Minneapolis. Bill Blazer, interim president of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, and other distinguished guests attended the Somali chamber’s gala dinner to celebrate and mark its achievements.

AFRICAN TURN TO 4

Five years after the devastating earthquake in 2010 left millions in need of urgent medical care, Haiti has made significant progress toward rebuilding the national public health system. Working with the Haitian government, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other partners have made progress toward the reconstruction of the public health sector to establish disease

As an instructor looks on, students learn lab techniques at the National Public Health Laboratory in Port-au-Prince. CDC staff support the lab with training and equipment, and the site serves as a training facility for lab technicians across Haiti. surveillance systems, enhance laboratory capacity, and develop human capacity in clinical services, epidemiology, and public health leadership. Today Haiti has more disease detectives to quickly detect outbreaks and effectively

respond; over 250 water and sanitation technicians to help rural areas improve drinking water; more vaccinated children; and new Ministry of Health facilities for laboratory, epidemiology and research staff. “Particularly since the

Staff members of DINEPA (the National Directorate for Drinking Water and Sanitation) test water for chlorination at a private residence in the city of Mirebalais, Haiti. With the support of the CDC, the office is both testing water quality in Haiti and mapping existing water sources for future use.

CAP

West Broadway

Lifestyle

Education

Structure, stability and strength can eliminate disparities

West Broadway Improvement District begins operations

Churches screen Selma, discuss race relations and reconciliation

Nellie Stone Johnson Middle School athletes show ski-racing prowess

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Structure, stability and strength can eliminate disparities Washington, D.C. — While research overwhelmingly shows that a strong family unit means improved stability for children and adults, the public debate around family units has largely tended to pit the advantages of families headed by married couples against the disadvantages of single-parent homes. In order

to move this debate past such simple binary terms, the Center for American Progress today released a report that introduces a new framework for discussing family policy, broadening the debate beyond just family structure to include family stability and strength—a new framework that CAP refers to as the three

S’s. CAP’s report offers both new and tested social and economic policy solutions to combat the instability that can affect low-income and middleclass American families. Considering these three factors together yields a richer and more balanced understanding of how family factors influence well-being and economic

security than would focusing exclusively on any single one, CAP’s report explains. “Today in America, there is no such thing as a typical family unit. But our policies, especially at the federal level, have failed to keep pace with our country’s changing households, and we know that children and adults alike can

succeed and feel supported in a range of family arrangements,” said Shawn Fremstad, Senior Fellow at CAP and co-author of the report. “It’s time to move past just thinking about structure and include stability and strength as key factors that can affect the health and wellbeing of families.” “The growth in economic

Shawn Fremstad

“ THERE IS A SPIRIT, AND A NEED, AND A PERSON AT THE BEGINNING OF EVERY

GREAT HUMAN ADVANCE.

Melissa Boteach

EVERY ONE OF THESE MUST BE RIGHT

FOR THAT PARTICULAR MOMENT OF HISTORY

OR NOTHING HAPPENS. “ - Coretta Scott King

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M A C Y ’ S L I F E ,

I N

C E L E B R AT I N G

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A N D

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inequality since the 1970s has profoundly shaped and constrained the family-related choices facing parents without four-year college degrees,” said Melissa Boteach, Vice President of the Poverty to Prosperity program at CAP and co-author of the report. “We all have a vested interest in ensuring the success of families of all types, and policymakers on both sides of the aisle should work together to address the economic and social issues that can exacerbate family instability.” CAP’s analysis, “Valuing All Our Families: Progressive Policies that Strengthen Family Commitments and Reduce Family Disparities,” also highlights key economic and social recommendations to strengthen family commitments and reduce family disparities. The economic plank covers recommendations to address the economic factors that have made families—and particularly working-class families—more vulnerable to risks related to the three S’s, including: • Increasing overall employment • Increasing the minimum wage substantially, strengthening basic labor standards, and making it easier for workers to form and join labor unions • Substantially increasing the earned income tax credit, or EITC, for adults without custodial children, and particularly young adults • Ensuring that disadvantaged married and cohabiting couples have meaningful access to key work and income supports • Reducing marriage penalties in the Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, program for people with disabilities • Enacting work-family policies, including paid family leave, earned sick days, and high-quality child care, and increasing the availability of flexible and predictable work schedules • Improving access to postsecondary education and training for both men and women The social plank includes recommendations to provide social supports and services that reduce the risks that all families face related to the three S’s but that would also disproportionately help lowincome and working-class families. Specifically, these recommendations include: • Increasing access to birth control and other reproductive health services • Increasing access to effective couples counseling • Modernizing the child support system and family law • Continuing successful home-visitation programs and increasing access to parenting education • Reforming our nation’s criminal justice and immigration systems to avoid separating families unnecessarily

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Insight News • January 19 - January 25, 2015 • Page 3

HEALTH White House awards $625,000 to North Memorial Medical Center (Washington D.C.) – Michael Botticelli, acting director of the Office National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), announced 680 Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Support Program grants, totaling $84 million, to communities across the country. The grants will provide local communities funding to prevent youth substance use and support the Administration’s National Drug Control Strategy, which treats the nation’s drug problem through what administrators call a balanced public health and safety approach. Partnership for Change (PFC), a local coalition sponsored by North Memorial Medical Center in Robbinsdale was one of the grant recipients and will receive $625,000 over five years in DFC grant funds

to involve and engage their local community to prevent substance use among youth. “President Obama designated October as National Substance Abuse Prevention Month because we know the best way to reduce youth drug use is to stop it from ever beginning,” said Botticelli. “I congratulate prevention advocates for their continuing hard work and dedication to young people many of whom are struggling with peer pressure and other challenges in today’s society.” “Community members are committed to working to reduce alcohol and drug use among our youth and young adults here in Northwest Hennepin County,” said Teresa Lunt, community chair for Partnership for Change. “Research shows that prevention is the most effective

tool we have to reduce the terrible consequences associated with alcohol and drug use. This new funding will allow the Partnership for Change coalition to continue our efforts in Northwest Hennepin County. We aim to see our young people on a path toward success and enable them to live healthier and safer lives. We are excited to continue our work.” “Drug-free coalitions across the nation are mobilizing to mount effective, coordinated prevention programs against substance use, especially among youth,” said Pamela Hyde, administrator of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). “SAMHSA is honored to partner with the White

House Office of National Drug Control Policy in building these critically important community coalitions.” PFC is comprised of community leaders, parents, youth, teachers, religious and fraternal

organizations, healthcare and business professionals, law enforcement and media. PFC will specifically work toward increasing community collaboration and to reduce youth substance abuse. The coalition plans to increase the

number of partners who are actively collaborating toward coalition goals, strengthen coalition member capacity to address marijuana and medicine abuse prevention, and expand youth participation in coalition activities.

We can’tnot afford v to have health insurance. Everyone deserves insurance they can afford. MNsure can help you get it. MNsure is a free service where you can compare health plans to ﬁnd the best plan for you, often at a surprisingly affordable price. In fact, most people qualify for ﬁnancial help. Free in-person or phone assistance is available.

Call 1-855-3MNSURE or visit mnsure.org Text ENROLL to 30644 for information

Influenza and Sepsis: Mayo expert describes warning signs of severe sepsis, septic shock Sepsis can be a dangerous complication of almost any type of infection, including influenza, pneumonia and food poisoning; urinary tract infections; bloodstream infections from wounds; and abdominal infections. Steve Peters, M.D., a pulmonary and critical care physician at Mayo Clinic and senior author of a recent sepsis overview in the medical journal Mayo Clinic Proceedings, explains sepsis symptoms and risk factors, the difference between severe sepsis and septic shock, and how sepsis is typically treated: What is sepsis? Sepsis occurs when chemicals released into the bloodstream to fight an infection trigger inflammatory responses throughout the body. This inflammation can trigger a cascade of changes that can damage multiple organ systems, causing them to fail. “Many infections can cause it,” Dr. Peters says. “It is most common with bacterial infections, but you can get sepsis from other types of bugs also.” What are symptoms to watch for? A high fever; inability to keep fluids down; rapid heartbeat; rapid, shallow breathing; lethargy and confusion are among the signs. If sepsis is suspected, seek emergency care, Dr. Peters advises. Rapid intervention is critical. “Let’s say one feels some nasal congestion, and achy, like a cold or upper respiratory illness they’d had many times before, or a low-grade temperature of 99 or 100 F, and otherwise they’re up and around and able to drink fluids: That would not call for going to the emergency department,” he says. “But, if one was not able to take fluids, became more sleepy and lethargic and was lying down all day, and starting to look quite ill or appearing confused, for example — that person should definitely be seen by a doctor.” How is sepsis treated? The first step is diagnosis: Cultures are taken from the blood and any other relevant parts of the body. Intravenous fluids are given, and antibiotics are usually started right away. “Probably the single most important thing is to try to maintain fluids,” Dr. Peters

says. “The damage of sepsis probably begins with loss of fluids.” If sepsis is severe, with rapid heart rate, rapid breathing and shortness of breath, and the initial fluid given doesn’t prompt rapid improvement, patients are usually hospitalized. What are the differences among sepsis, severe sepsis and septic shock? Sepsis refers to signs of inflammation in the presence of a presumed infection, Dr. Peters says. “Severe sepsis means you’ve got that and signs of organ damage: lung injury, impaired kidney function, impaired liver function,” Dr. Peters explains. “Septic shock means you have all of those findings of severe sepsis, but now you’ve been given fluids, and there’s still poor blood pressure, poor urine output, breathing troubles, and there are still ongoing signs of sepsis.” Septic shock can be fatal. Among hospitalized patients, septic shock is associated with a 20 to 30 percent risk of death,

Dr. Peters says. Sepsis is such a concern in hospital critical care units that Mayo Clinic has developed a sepsis “sniffer” to help detect it in patients and spot who is at higher risk. Recent improvements to the sniffer are outlined in another new article in Mayo Clinic Proceedings. Who’s at risk? Anyone can develop sepsis. People on chemotherapy or other immune-suppressing drugs are at higher risk, as are the elderly and people with open wounds that could lead to infection. Often, immune-suppressed patients are given antibiotics preventively. Is there anything you can do to prevent sepsis if you catch the flu or another illness? “Taking your temperature is important, because it gives a good assessment of how severe this might be,” Dr. Peters says. “Probably the single most important thing is to try to continue taking in fluids. Watch for signs and symptoms, and seek urgent medical care if you suspect sepsis.”

IS IT A COLD OR THE FLU? Know the difference, so you’ll know what to do. Symptoms of a cold include headache, runny nose, cough, head congestion and stuffiness. The best treatment is rest and plenty of fluids. The flu affects your whole body. The symptoms include fever, aches, chills and fatigue. If you or your child has these symptoms, contact North Memorial quickly: antiviral medications can be prescribed within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms. North Memorial Clinics offer walk-in appointments at many locations. Our Urgent Care and Urgency Centers offer short wait times and same-day treatment. Go to northmemorial.com/locations to find a location near you. Or just stay in bed, and visit northmemorial.com/northecare to get an online diagnosis and treatment plan within an hour.

Page 4 • January 19 - January 25, 2015 • Insight News

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West Broadway Improvement District begins operations By Shaina Brassard, West Broadway Business and Area Coalition

established in the community,” said Jackie Cherryhomes, outgoing President of the Board of Directors of the West Broadway Business and Area Coalition (WBC). WBID services and amenities for 2015 include: litter pickup, graffiti and weed removal, branded street banners for 175 light poles and holiday decorations. After an extensive bidding process, the WBC selected Better Futures Enterprises Minnesota for streetscaping. The WBID will provide services along West Broadway from West River Road to 26th Avenue and along Washington Avenue North from 17th to 21st

The start of the New Year marked the beginning of implementation of the West Broadway Improvement District (WBID). West Broadway Business and Area Coalition officials say ongoing services on West Broadway, the primary commercial corridor in north Minneapolis, will have a positive and long-lasting impact on both the neighborhood and the larger community of Minneapolis. Residents, business owners and visitors have already noticed the difference made after the first rounds of litter pickup and poster removal undertaken by WBID crews. A Business Improvement District (BID) or Special Service District (SSD), as they are called per Minnesota state statute, is a public/private partnership in which commercial and industrial property and business owners elect to make a collective contribution to the maintenance, development and promotion of their commercial district above and beyond regular city services. The mission of the WBID is to create and promote a West Broadway Coalition cleaner, greener, safer West Broadway Business A WBID worker removes litter near the Capri Theater. District. The WBID was established after a long process led by business and property owners. Following Minneapolis City Council approval of the 2015 WBID Operating Plan and Budget in September 2014, commercial and industrial property owners had 45 days to dissent to the additional tax assessment that will fund the district’s services. Of the 144 ratepayers within the district, there was only one detractor. An additional five nonprofit property owners voluntarily opted in to the assessment, recognizing that the WBID will provide value to their organizations. “This overwhelming West Broadway Coalition support is a testament A worker in WBID-branded safety vest to the West Broadway business community’s removes posters from a public light post. desire to better serve residents, and to the level of trust the West Broadway Avenues. The WBID is the only BID/ Business and Area Coalition has

African From 1 Despite a slow start of the night, guests enjoyed the evening dinner and the dynamic interaction. Some of the dignitaries attending the event included Dr. Bruce Corrie of University of Concordia St. Paul, Faruk Cingilli, president of Turkish Somali American

Friendship Association, Nasibu Sareva, executive director of African Development Center, as well as Unity Cooperative Council’s executive director Hussein Khatib. Mohamud Beenebeene, executive director of the Minnesota Somali Chamber of Commerce kicked off the gala dinner by thanking all the parties that have contributed to the chamber. Speaking mostly in Somali, Beenebeene

Dr. Tara Watson, WBID ratepayer and supporter, outside Watson Chiropractic. SSD outside of the Downtown Improvement District (DID) to be self-managed. In Minneapolis there are 15 active SSDs. The WBID will be managed by West Broadway Business and Area Coalition staff and governed by the WBC’s constituent-based

Board of Directors, which is required to be comprised of a minimum of three-fifths assessed property owners, such that a majority of the board shall be comprised of property owners participating in the assessment. City of Minneapolis public works

staff will provide oversight for the WBID. Dr. Tara Watson, owner of Watson Chiropractic and Anytime Fitness on West Broadway, is a strong supporter of the WBID and a member of the WBC Board of Directors.

“This is a united front for businesses to work together. This service district unifies us in another way, making our voice stronger, showing others we care about what goes on outside our businesses as well,” said Watson.

shared the chamber’s history and achievements and outlined visions of the chamber going forward. The Minnesota Somali Chamber of Commerce was conceived by a group of business women and men in June 2013 and was launched in 2014. It represents more than 210 Somali businesses in Minnesota. “This initiative was formed by a group of men and women who wanted a business platform,” Beenebeene said. “We wanted to advocate, exchange ideas and support one another.” “Somali entrepreneurs working together to advance a Somali business is our biggest success. We have created a lot of awareness both state and federal level.” The members of the Minnesota Somali Chamber of Commerce embraced many state officials in helping to promote the chamber. Among the officials mentioned were Mayor Betsy Hodges and Representative Keith

Ellison, D-Minn. Hodges and Ellison were not in attendance. “We have created good relationships with Minnesota officials,” said Beenebeene. “They have paved the way for advocacy. They have also helped us understand the rules and regulations.” Some of the sponsors of the chamber are Afro Deli and Catering, Family Care and Transportation, Medina Realty, Olympic Money Transfer, AMA and African Development Center. Farhiya Farah, a trained researcher based in the Twin Cities delivered a captivating and powerful speech. In her remarks, the young woman spoke passionately about Somali business women’s contributions and challenges in the society. “We have been exposed to an environment with difficulties and yet we succeed,” she said, looking at the crowd fiercely. She continued, “Investing in a woman is an investment in the future.” Farah’s speech was one that shook the crowd and reminded guests about the importance of a woman regardless of her ethnic background. Her heartfelt remarks earned her applause

and a standing ovation from the cheering loud crowd. Saciido Shaie and Ayan Dean, members of the Somali community shared that their main goal for the night was to “come out here and support this great initiative.” Blazer, accompanied by his wife Mary and other members of his Chamber, took the stage to address two key points: building businesses and Minnesota’s economy. Blazer discussed the gains of the emerging workforce and how it contributes to the economy. “Immigrants are key to supplying the workers at all levels of skills. Somalis participate and contribute critically to the workers shortage our state faces,” he said. He advised the chamber on how to grow successful businesses in Minnesota. Blazer urged the chamber to follow the model of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce in order to develop and grow businesses: advocacy and working one-on-one with businesses. Blazer giving praise to the enthusiastic crowd said, “Your contributions can be much greater as entrepreneurs and as bridge to the growing African economy.”

Blazer shared his worry about the state’s economy and some of the unchanging traditions in the last century. He emphasized the importance of new entrepreneurs and their growing impact on the state’s economy. “The businesses that have done well here have started here. In the next 20 years your entrepreneurship spirit will grow this economy substantially.” he said confidently as he gazed back-and-forth over the crowd. Blazer highlighted the growing significance of the African market and ways the Minnesota Somali Chamber of Commerce can help to lobby for the African community. Thinking about the link to Africa, “Somali businesses people here in Minnesota understand the culture and know the language,” he said. “Without your voice our World Trade office will not realize or recognize the opportunities Minnesota companies have in Africa.” He concluded by reassuring the crowd that his chamber will help the Minnesota Somali Chamber of Commerce advance entrepreneurship and be a bridge to the growing African economy. Sarah Radosevich, policy research analyst for the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce was convinced that the formation of the Minnesota Somali Chamber of Commerce will help bring unity to the Somali business community. “This (Somali) chamber will make it easier for Somali businesses to be heard by legislators at the Capitol,” she said.

TOWN HALL MEETING With Senator Bobby Joe Champion

Minnesota has moved out of a decade of budget deficits and towards a more stable economy. Now that our state has a budget surplus, it is time to address some of the issues important to our communities. I urge citizens to attend my Town Hall Meeting and hear about some 2015 legislative topics such as the budget, education, transportation and more.

“

Scottie Tuska

-- Senator Bobby Joe Champion

Thursday, January 22, 2015 Food served from 6:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Meeting from 6:30 pm - 8:00 p.m.

at the UROC 2001 Plymouth Ave North | Minneapolis, MN 55411 Sponsored by: The Harrison Neighborhood Association, The Minneapolis Downtown Council, The East Downtown Council, The Jordan Area Community Council The Elliott Park Neighborhood Association, And more

Please join me I value your opinion and want to hear your views! If you have any questions, contact: 651-296-9246

Faiza Abbas Mahamud is Associate Editor at Mshale having started as a Staff Reporter. She has a BA in Journalism and Women’s Studies from Augsburg College. She is author of the documentary “Somali Women’s Education”. She is based in Minneapolis.

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Insight News • January 19 - January 25, 2015 • Page 5

LIFESTYLE Churches screen Selma, discuss race relations and reconciliation More than 150 members of seven area churches attended a private showing of the new movie, “Selma,” on Jan. 11, at the Southdale 16 movie theater in Edina. “After watching the movie, which portrays many of the events that fueled the Civil Rights Movement, those who attended discussed their feelings about how far we have come and how far we have to go to improve race relations in our community,” said the Rev. Nazim B. Fakir, pastor of St. Peter’s AME Church in Minneapolis. Dr. Hallie Hendrith Smith, a 98-year-old Selma native, spoke of her experience with bigotry and the difficult struggles of Blacks during the Civil Rights Movement. Another Black viewer and a white viewer said they both lost some white friends who did not understand the need for

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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 Culture and Education Editor Irma McClaurin Director of Content & Production Patricia Weaver Sr. Content & Production Coordinator Ben Williams Production Intern Sunny Thongthi Distribution/Facilities Manager Jamal Mohamed Receptionist Lue B. Lampley Contributing Writers Harry Colbert, Jr. Julie Desmond Fred Easter Timothy Houston Penny Jones-Richardson Alaina L. Lewis Darren Moore Carmen Robles Lydia Schwartz Ryan T. Scott Toki Wright Photography David Bradley 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.

protesting the recent killings of Blacks and said the movie was relevant to today’s issues of race in America. The Rev. Alfred BabingtonJohnson, president/CEO of the Stairstep Foundation, who said he grew up during the Civil Rights Movement, quoted Frederick Douglass saying, “If there is no struggle, there is no progress. It must be a struggle. Power concedes nothing without a demand.” Some believe that the election of Barack Obama, the first Black president of the United States, signaled that we now live in a post-racial America, however, the circumstances that led to the recent deaths of a number of Black males (Trayvon Martin in Florida, Michael Brown in Ferguson, Mo., Eric Garner in Staten Island, N.Y., Tamir Rice in Cleveland and Terrance Franklin in Minneapolis), suggest otherwise. “Black males are often vilified and viewed as lazy, dangerous or incorrigible. In addition, they are often profiled by a law enforcement system that sees them as criminals and stereotyped by an educational

Willie Dean

New Creation Church Members system that expects them to fail. Recent deaths of Blacks at the hands of police, security guards and vigilantes suggest that we have much work to do to improve race relations in this country,” said Fakir.

Lutheran Church and Calvary Lutheran Church. Fakir pointed out that the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was only 39 years old when he was murdered in 1968, which means that he was only 36 when

Congregations that viewed the movie and participated in the discussion included St. Peter’s AME Church, St. James AME Church, Wayman AME Church, Zion Baptist Church, New Creation Church, Our Saviour’s

the Voting Rights Act was signed into law in 1965. Fakir invited the faith community to continue the dialogue and to work together on race relations and reconciliation.

Chavis, MC Lyte on new book bridge hip -hop/civil rights gap LOS ANGELES – Civil rights leader Dr. Benjamin Chavis, Jr. and hip-hop icon MC Lyte have joined forces with the penning of “FUSION: Bridging the Gap Between Civil Rights and Hip Hop” (www.fusionthemovement. com). The book was spawned from a private conversation about social justice between Chavis and Lyte last summer. The dialogue examines how the Civil Rights Movement helped with the emergence of hip-hop and how hip-hop continues to help the survival of the Civil

where Chavis and MC Lyte serve as senior advisory board member and Chairman/ Founder, respectively. “‘FUSION’ and my partnership with Dr. Chavis allow me to continue to lead my generation in delivering positive images and messages about our continued efforts to achieve justice and equality, while providing access to higher education, mentorship and tools for social responsibility,” said MC Lyte. “Working with MC Lyte to publish ‘FUSION’ will help to stimulate more constructive

Rights Movement, with a rare focus on the roles women played throughout this unique era. Misogyny, the evolution of gender roles in the movement towards justice and equality, and the pervasiveness of music on Black culture and its global impact are discussed between the two authors who are passionate about the continued advancement of peoples of color around the globe. A portion of the proceeds from “FUSION” benefit #EducateOurMen, the signature education initiative of Hip Hop Sisters Foundation,

and progressive dialogue, as well as direct social action, to achieve freedom, justice and equality for all while highlighting the positive transformative attributes of hip-hop culture and the ongoing Civil Rights Movement,” said Chavis. “FUSION” is described as a rare look at two worlds – civil rights and hip-hop – colliding in a riveting dialogue between two historic and lyrical leaders. Books can be purchased on Amazon and at www.fusionthemovement.com.

Setting and keeping the right New Year’s resolutions Man Talk

By Timothy Houston The beginning of every year ushers in a fresh start and inspires the idea of improvement. “I’m going to lose 10 pounds.” “I’m going to save more money.” We believe that we will accomplish every goal set on New Year’s Day. However, many of these worthy objectives get quickly lost when we return to our daily routines. Check out this information from LabDoor.com about New Year’s Resolutions and see if you can find the secret to sticking to your goals this year. 5 Most Common New Year’s Resolutions: • Lose weight • Get organized

• Spend less. Save More. • Enjoy life to the fullest • Stay fit and healthy The Top 3 Resolutions We Break: • Eat healthier • Lose weight • Minimize stress What is missing from both lists is the plan. Without a plan, you are subject to the ebbs and flows of life. Your good intentions get overrun by deadlines, appointments, emergencies, and crisis management. You need a life plan. Those who fail to plan unknowingly plan to fail. Below are a few suggestions that should be a part of every plan. 1. Prioritize a nutritionally adequate diet. We are what we eat. 2. Maintain a consistent exercise regimen. Make this a priority not an afterthought. 3. Identify healthy outlets for stress. Emotional health impacts all areas of our lives 4. Ensure your spirit is

Goals may require help from others Motivational Moments

By Penny JonesRichardson This week I had the pleasure of reading about a young woman who achieved a goal of losing over one hundred pounds in a year. I was so impressed with this young woman that I had to reach out to her and hear her story. She stated that she decided at the beginning of last year that she would set of goal to lose weight and not just a few pounds, but enough weight for her to be healthy again. She shared with me that she grew up in an environment filled with self hate and not a lot of positive, motivating people. She turned to food when she felt alone, scared or just unhappy. So by the time

she reached her twenties, she was overweight and “under-loved” as she put it. She said the only time she felt good about anything in her life was when she was cooking a big meal for her family or friends. To make a long story short, she set a very big goal that she knew she would need help from others to complete. She stated that this goal was so important to her that she ended up doing things that she had never done before. She asked other people to help her. People from her church, her job, and even some people in her neighborhood would help her manage how much food she ate, take walks with her at lunch time and some neighbors would ride bikes or walk the neighborhood with her. The point I am trying to make is that some goals we set for ourselves will take us on a journey that will require us to ask for help from others. It’s nice

GOALS TURN TO 7

measurements, boundaries, and limitations are seen as a means to the end. The “no” you say to the donut because a “yes” to eating healthier and getting fit. Emotionally, you will feel better because you are doing something good. It is not too late to get a life plan for this year. Do your homework and put together the best life plan possible. A healthy life is a gift to you and to the

healthy; your spirit is the total essence of who you are, and out of it comes your choices. A healthy spirit leads to healthy choices. Begin this year with a life plan. It is not only the building blocks to a healthier life; it is also the glue that cements it together. When you have a plan, the little steps you make become a part of a bigger objective and

world. Be healthy, be happy, and be blessed. 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.

reverend dr. martin luther king, jr.

celebration! celebration!

MONDAY, JANuary 19 | 6:30-7:30 PM Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Park | 4055 NICOLLET AVE S | MINNEAPOLIS

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: ‘What are you doing for others?’”

EMCEE

Chad Jackson

- Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Senior Account Executive – Minnesota Twins

KEYNOTE

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Ashley DuBose Contestant on NBC’s hit television show, “The Voice.”

and Zacc Harris Trio 2015 LIVING THE DREAM AWARD

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Page 6 • January 19 - January 25, 2015 • Insight News

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COMMENTARY Reflections on MLK, race & colorism By Bill Duke, Filmmaker and Author As the nation celebrates Martin Luther King Jr.’s 86th birthday, we are immersed in an intensive, often divisive, conversation about race in America. Sixty years after King marched through the streets, like he did in Selma and cities throughout the South, we find ourselves still on the streets battling many of these same issues. The 2014 “battle” has focused on how police treat us in our communities, which have pitted “white police” against black citizens. My concern is that we are too narrowly focused. We need to make sure we battle this issue of race on all fronts. Today, we face prejudice from those outside the black community and from within it as well. Let’s face it: Skin color is still an issue in our community. The bullying that takes place between dark skinned and light skinned people is alive and well – and quite

honestly Martin Luther King would be hurt to know that we’re not living up to his call for us to judge each other by the content of our character, not the color of our skin. In recent years, I’ve engaged thousands of people in conversations about race and colorism in producing my documentaries – Dark Girls and Light Girls. Admittedly, I’m not a psychiatrist or sociologist, I’m a filmmaker. Just last year I spoke at the Apollo Theater where had done a screening. When an elderly woman asked me, “Why are you airing our dirty laundry?” I looked at her, and I don’t think she liked it when I said, “because its stinking up the house.” We have to get over this. We have to engage ourselves in this conversation to help us better understand the ways in which we slight each other. We have to grasp the notion that colorism – the prejudice based on the lightness and darkness of one’s skin – shows that darker skinned individuals have to

We have to grasp the notion that colorism shows that darker skinned individuals have to overcome even greater incidents of prejudice than light skinned individuals. overcome even greater incidents of prejudice than light skinned individuals. You know the “doll test” that originally was done in the 1940s by researchers Kenneth and Mamie Clark who were setting out to measure the impact of segregation on AfricanAmerican children. Many others have replicated this study over the past 70 years, but results

have not changed: Young girls and boys repeatedly characterize the dark skinned dolls as dumb, evil and unkempt. Add to this the bullying that light skin girls get from their dark skin sisters who think they’re “stuck up” or “too good”. I’m sure I’m not talking about anything you haven’t heard discussed in your own home. Last year when Lupita Nyong’o’s won an Oscar

for her role in the movie, 12 Years a Slave, it was significant in many ways, particularly as a dark skinned woman. In many ways, she has become a poster child for dark skin women, celebrating their beauty and promoting confidence. On the other hand, Beyoncé is increasingly criticized for “looking too white” on her CD and magazine covers in which she appears. Add to this the growing number of white females who are regularly going to tanning salons, getting Botox to plump up their lips and getting butt lifts. This issue is not unique to the United States, but in this world that is increasingly full of brown people. As we reflect on King, he made it clear that people are judging you on what they see, how you look and the color of your skin. If you’re a darkskinned black, there’s even a greater burden. If you’re a dark skinned black woman, you face even greater scrutiny. Dark skin people have both whites that are

uncomfortable with the color of their skin. You face namecalling from all sides, including your own family. Your selfesteem and self-perception takes a beating. What I’m hoping for is that we’ll find ways to engage in conversations in our homes, in our classrooms, in our churches that will inspire us to elevate ourselves beyond these prejudices. We know that’s what King would have wanted. Director, producer, and writer BILL DUKE is the godfather of African-American cinema. He was recently honored with a Lifetime Achievement Tribute from the Directors Guild of America, placing him in the company of directors like Stephen Spielberg and Clint Eastwood. Duke’s productions include “American Gigolo,” “A Rage in Harlem,” “Predator,” and many more. He has degrees from Boston University, NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts and the American Film Institute.

The education of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Opinion

By Julianne Malveaux As he labored for social, civil and economic justice, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was extremely concerned both about the educational inequities that were a function of segregation, and about the purpose and quality of education. As early as 1947, as a Morehouse College

student, he wrote an article, The Purpose of Education, for the Maroon Tiger, the college newspaper. His article is as relevant today as it was then. Today, much of the focus of education is on passing standardized tests; and while educational measurement is important, Dr. King suggests that these measures are insufficient. In his article, he pondered the meaning and purpose of education. He wrote that “Education must enable a (person) to become more efficient, to achieve with increasing facility the legitimate goals of his life.” King was critical of the

results of specific aspects of education when he wrote, “education must also train one for quick, resolute and effective thinking. To think, incisively and to think for one’s self is very difficult. We are prone to let our mental life become invaded by legions of half-truths, prejudices, and propaganda. A great majority of the so-called educated people does not think logically and scientifically. Even the press, the classroom, the platform, and the pulpit in many instances do not give us objective and unbiased truths.” True in 1947, but even more so today with 3-minute

commentary passing for news, and some classrooms the site of propaganda delivery. Some Southerners still believe that the South won the Civil War, and they fly the confederate flags to honor it, and teach this falsity in their classrooms. A friend who lives in Georgia said nearly half of her junior high school-age daughter’s U.S. history curriculum covered aspects of the Civil War. From that perspective, young King was quite critical of segregationist, their intelligence, ad their prejudice. “The late Eugene Talmadge, in my opinion, possessed one of

the better minds in Georgia, or even America. Moreover, he wore the Phi Beta Kappa key. By all measuring rods, Mr. Talmadge could think critically and intensively yet he contends that I am an inferior being. Are these the types of men we call educated?” King said that intelligence is not enough. He said, “Intelligence plus character is the goal of true education.” We must develop and support young people who are educated in the King tradition – young people with character and discernment. We cannot do this work without a consciousness of people who

are committed to breaking down educational barriers, closing the achievement gap, improving the quality of schools and access to education. But while other countries are increasing their commitment to education, the United States is cutting back. Said King, “The most dangerous criminal may be the man (person) gifted with reason, but no morals.” How moral is it to consign millions to low wages, refusing, even, to increase the minimum wage. How moral is it to cut food stamps and jobs programs

MALVEAUX TURN TO 7

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Insight News â&#x20AC;˘ January 19 - January 25, 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 7

BUSINESS

Recommit to fundraising FUNdraising Good Times

By Mel and Pearl Shaw Is fundraising at the top of your to-do list for 2015? Are you ready to recommit to help ensure the vitality of your nonprofit or college? Will you sign your fundraising commitment form again? What?!? Your organization doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t use one? Now is the time to change that. Here are three suggestions for how you can make a difference in your organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fundraising. If you are a fundraising or development professional:

Review the commitment forms that board members completed last year. Set up a time to meet with each member to review and plan for 2015. Meeting in person is ideal, but a phone or video meeting could work well too. Ask each to rate their fundraising participation for the prior year. Ask what worked well, and what didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. Inquire about training that could help increase their involvement. Let each know you are available to partner and support their efforts. Ask each to recommit for 2015. If your board doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t use a fundraising commitment form, now is the time to introduce this. Most likely there will be resistance. That is a good thing: you want to grow into a board where members are proud to give and fundraise. Introducing a formal commitment form can start a catalytic conversation.

Your commitment will show up on the bottom line!

If you are the chair of the board development committee: Meet with members to assess your commitment as a committee, and to assess the boardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to fundraising. What is working?

What strategies or activities were most successful? Are there problem areas that impede fundraising? What needs to be addressed in the new year for the board to take on a larger role in

fundraising? Is there a specific project or fundraising priority the board can take on? If the board is not yet a â&#x20AC;&#x153;fundraising boardâ&#x20AC;? what activity can be introduced in 2015 to move in that direction? Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to set a specific amount as a goal. A defined goal (with a timeframe) allows you to measure progress. Be sure to measure! If you are the CEO of a nonprofit or the president of a college: Commit to your role as the chief fundraising officer. You may have a development director or even an advancement department, but at the end of the day you are the person responsible for the organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s or institutionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bottom line. Review your calendar and make time for cultivation and solicitation activities with potential major donors and

supporters. Schedule time to meet with your top fundraising/ development person. Ask â&#x20AC;&#x153;what do you need to be successful,â&#x20AC;? listen to the response, and work together towards success. Set your own fundraising goal: determine how much you will personally raise in the coming year and secure the involvement of those who can help you reach that goal. Your commitment will show up on the bottom line! Copyright 2015â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Mel and Pearl Shaw Mel and Pearl Shaw position nonprofits, colleges and universities for fundraising success. For help with your fundraising visit www. saadandshaw.com or call (901) 522-8727.

Bureau lists top ten scam schemes of 2014 Scammers tried out some new tricks in 2014, but stuck with some old â&#x20AC;&#x153;classics,â&#x20AC;? as well. Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota ÂŽ (BBB) looks back on 2014 and offers an informal list of the top ten scams from last year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You hate to use the word ambition when it comes to scammers, but they are creative and relentless,â&#x20AC;? said Dana Badgerow, president and CEO of BBB of Minnesota and North Dakota. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They are also, often, professionals. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important for everyone to know who and what theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re up against.â&#x20AC;? Though the list of scams reported to BBB and monitored by its staffers was long, these were the top ten scams in terms of their

overall reach. Bogus IRS calls â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Unknown callers falsely claim an affiliation with the IRS and tell intended victims they owe taxes and must make an immediate payment using a pre-paid debit card or via wire transfer. Scammers threaten those who refuse to pay with arrest or even deportation. However, the IRS contacts people by mail in regard to unpaid taxes. The Caller ID Scam â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Your phone rings and you see your name and phone number pop up on caller ID. If you answer, a computerized message claims to be able to lower your credit card interest rates. Any action consumers take, such as pressing 1 to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;opt out,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; tells fraudsters that the phone number is â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;good,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;

and that number is then added to lists which scammers sell to other scammers. And those promises of lowering your credit card interest rates? Not legitimate. Timeshare scams â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Timeshare owners receive calls from individuals claiming to have secured buyers or renters for their timeshares. After receiving official-looking contracts, consumers are eventually informed they have to provide funds upfront to cover transfer fees, title or closing costs and/or taxes in order to close the deals, which arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t real. Online Pet scams â&#x20AC;&#x201C; People find websites claiming to offer purebred puppies for free or at very low prices. However, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re told transfer fees have

Goals

herself, she never imagined that she would need to bring others along with her. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the power of self motivation! When others see that you are motivated to change something that will make you a better person, then they may want to help you along your journey. If you have those people in your life, be THANKFUL! Because they are there to help

you become the best you yet! And as always, stay focused, stay determined, and keep striving for greatness.

education in our nation.

author and economist based in Washington, D.C.

From 5 to say you completed something on your own, but it is also nice to know that there are people cheering you on and there to help you stay on the right track. When this young lady set this goal for

Malveaux From 6 in the name of economic growth, although many are still suffering? The art and science of politics is about compromise, but how do we compromise with peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives and well-being? There ought to be a floor under which no citizen is allowed to fall. Wages, health career, education, and access to housing should not be bargained over, but automatically given. Too many of our legislators are educated, but lack morals. It is shameful to watch them celebrate the shredding of the safety net. Budget cuts have made education less obtainable than ever. While many parents hire coaches to help their children write essays and complete their college applications, working class parents donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the money to do this kind of hiring. The American School Counselors says that many states mandate a ratio of between 500 and 750 students per counselor. Even at the lower number, a counselor can spend just an hour per student per semester, hardly enough to get advice about college attendance, the filling out of applications, and other matters. Some states have no mandate at all. They include (but are not limited to) Florida, Illinois, Kansas, and Kentucky. Unless parents or civic organizations are willing to step up, some students face major barriers to college attendance and career preparation. President Obama says he wants the US to be a leader in world education. Others could care less about the education of too many students. Those who fail to care about the next generation are, in Dr. Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s words, â&#x20AC;&#x153;dangerous criminals.â&#x20AC;? Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s celebrate the King holiday with a commitment to close the achievement gap and to improve the quality of

Julianne

Malveaux

to be wired to release the puppy or payment has to be made to a third-party shipper. The funds are paid, generally via wire transfer or prepaid debit cards, but the pet never arrives. Mystery Shopping offers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; People receive mailed solicitations, accompanied by sizable checks, to become mystery shoppers. Though the checks look legitimate, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re bogus. Consumers should be aware that legitimate mystery shopping firms donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t operate in this manner. Tech Support Scam â&#x20AC;&#x201C; You receive a call out of the blue saying thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a problem with your computer. A â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;helpfulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; expert offers to help you fix it and/or asks for your credit card information. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t play along! Cooperating

could give scammers access to your computer and/or sensitive financial information. When thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a problem with your computer, you call the expert â&#x20AC;&#x201C; they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t call you. Sweepstakes/Lottery solicitations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; You receive a notice saying youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve won a huge cash prize. All you have to do is pay taxes, insurance or fees and the â&#x20AC;&#x153;prizeâ&#x20AC;? will be yours. However, if you have to claim your winnings, you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t won anything. Bogus postcard/Survey scams â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Good news! Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been told youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve won a $100 gift card from a major retailer or will get one for taking a short survey. The bad news? These â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;offersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; are fake and the people behind them just

want your credit card number or personal information. Fake subscription renewal notices - Consumers receive subscription renewal notices promising the lowest rates on newspapers or magazines, but discover the notices are sent by a third-party. They also discover renewing directly through the periodicalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s publisher costs less. Grant schemes - Usually these grant â&#x20AC;&#x153;notificationsâ&#x20AC;? come via the phone, but people may also receive them through mail and email. Individuals who receive them are told theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re either eligible for or have been awarded a government grant, but processing fees must first be paid. However, there are no processing fees for federal grants.

Penny Jones-Richardson is a published author and life coach. She can be reached via her website at www.thequeensproject. com or email at penny@ thequeensproject.com.

WITNESS Stomp & Sing

Experience the rhythmic spirit of the Gullah from the Sea Islands of South Carolina and Georgia with guest artist Melanie DeMore and the VocalEssence Chorus.

Sunday, February 9, 2014 at 4 pm Orchestra Hall 1111 Nicollet Mall Minneapolis

Melanie DeMore www.VocalEssence.org â&#x20AC;˘ 612-371-5656

UNIVERSAL PICTURES PRESENTS A BLUMHOUSE/SMART ENTERTAINMENT/NUYORICMUSICAN PRODUCTION A FILM BY ROB COHEN JENNIFEREXECUTIVELOPEZ â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE BOY NEXT DOORâ&#x20AC;? RYAN GUZMAN JOHN CORBETT IAN NELSONPRODUCEDAND KRISTIN CHENOWETH BY RANDY EDELMAN NATHAN BARR PRODUCERS COUPER SAMUELSON JEANETTE VOLTURNO-BRILL ZAC UNTERMAN BY JASON BLUM p.g.a. JOHN JACOBS p.g.a. ELAINE GOLDSMITH-THOMAS BENNY MEDINA JENNIFER LOPEZ WRITTEN DIRECTED BY BARBARA CURRY BY ROB COHEN A UNIVERSAL RELEASE Â? <50=,9:(3 :;<+06:

CHECK LOCAL LISTINGS FOR STARTS FRIDAY, JANUARY 23 THEATERS AND SHOWTIMES

Page 8 • January 19 - January 25, 2015 • Insight News

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EDUCATION Nellie Stone Johnson Middle School athletes show ski-racing prowess More than diverse 50 middle school students from Anwatin, Nellie Stone Johnson and Northeast Middle Schools recently competed in short, timed ski races at the Second Annual Farview Sprints. The middle school athletes are all part of the Loppet Foundation’s year-round ski and mountain bike teams run through a partnership with the Minneapolis Public Schools. Medals were awarded to the top three boys and the top three girls, as well as to the winners in each grade level. The Farview Sprints held at Theodore Wirth Park offered an opportunity for the athletes to prepare for the Rossignol Junior Loppet at the City of Lakes Loppet Ski Festival , (Jan. 30 Feb. 1). Loppet Foundation is the nonprofit organization behind the highly popular winter festival that last year drew 11,000 participants across 21 different events from cross country ski races and snow sculpture contests to a dogsled race and the magical Luminary Loppet, now in its 10th year. Sherman Powell and Melvin Russell are in their third year on the Nellie Stone Johnson team. The African-American boys are

Race From 1 or from that of some secretion, the difference is fixed in nature, and is as real as if its seat and cause were better known to us. “Are not the fine mixtures of red and white, the expressions of every passion by greater or less suffusions of color in one (whites), preferable to that eternal monotony, which reigns in the countenances, that immoveable veil of black which causes the emotions of the other race? “They have less hair on the face and body. They secrete less by the kidneys, and more by the glands of the skin, which gives them a very strong and disagreeable color. “They seem to require less sleep. A Black, after hard labor through the day, will be induced by the slightest amusements to sit up till [sic] midnight, or later though knowing he must be up with the first dawn of the morning.

Haiti From 1 eliminate malaria and lymphatic filariasis from Haiti, as well as gains in access to tuberculosis treatment services and access to improved water and sanitation

Mayo From 1 Originally called Block E, the troubled retail complex now has one of the nation’s most recognized, respected and prestigious health organization as its tenant. The space is now known as the Mayo Clinic Square and is open to the public. Innovators and creators of Insight 2 Health Fitness Challenge (I2H) Al McFarlane, Tyrone Minor, owner, The F.I.T. Lab, Jaime Minor and yours truly recently toured the facilities. Walking through the doors that opened into the one of a kind gym with its 21st century equipment was akin to Dorothy’s opening the exit door of her tornado ridden world and stepping fantastically from black and white into the colorful world of Oz. We had entered

The Loppet Foundation

Sherman P., Li’Tavius M., Phillip G. and Kemari W. prepare to start the Peace Coffee Pre-Loppet on Sunday, January 11. The young athletes compete on the Loppet Foundation’s middle school ski and bike team at Nellie Stone Johnson Community School. three-year ski-team veterans. Hispanic students skiing in their first race included Northeast Middle School ‹s Johnny Llizisaca, Zecilia Martinez and Brian Gabino. A group of Hmong athletes on the Anwatin team included Leslie Vang (8th grade) and her younger sister

Angelie Vang(6th grade) as well as several of their teammates. Organizers of the race say it is important because it is introducing winter sports to people not traditionally associated with such activities. They say Minneapolis is known for being an outdoor-active

community but there is great disparity with respect to health outcomes, use of parks and activity levels among minorities. To date the Loppet Foundation has taught 6,500 youth, including 5,500 from north Minneapolis , to cross country ski, paddle, mountain bike, run

trails and generally appreciate the outdoors. Organizers said the Farview Sprints provided a great opportunity to highlight this important work and the skiing talents of north Minneapolis youth who have learned to ski through Loppet programs and are on a path of participating for their

high school ski teams, helping to diversify the city’s high school cross country ski teams. Established in 2002 with an 800-person ski race, the Loppet Foundation is a nonprofit that now welcomes 40,000 participants annually to its events and programs.

“They are at least as brave and more adventuresome. But this may perhaps proceed from want of forethought, which prevents their feeling a danger till [sic] it is present. “They are more ardent after their female, but love seems to be with them a more eager desire, than a tender delicate mixture of sentiment and sensations. “Their grief is transient ... in general their existence appears to be more in sensation than in reflection. “Comparing them by their faculties of memory, reason and imagination, it appears to me, that in memory equal to whites, reason much inferior, as I think one could scarcely be found of tracing and comprehending the investigation of Euclid, and that in imagination they are dull, tasteless, and anomalous. “But never yet could I find a Black who had uttered a thought above the level of plain narration, never even an elementary trait of painting or sculpture. “In music they are more

generally gifted than Whites with accurate ears for tune and time, and they have been capable of imagining a small catch ... whether they will be equal to the composition of a more extensive melody, or complicated harmony, is yet to be proved. “Misery is often the parent of the most affecting touches of poetry. Among the Blacks is misery enough, God knows, but no poetry. Love is the peculiar ostrum of the poet. Their love is ardent, but it kindles the senses only, but not the imagination. “Religion indeed has produced a Phyllis Wheatley; but it could not produce a poet. “I advance it therefore as a suspicion only, that the Blacks, whether originally a distinct race or made distinct by time and circumstances, are inferior to the whites in the endowments both of body and mind.” I am of the opinion that at least half of the solution to any problem is having the correct definition of the problem. The “Race” problem in this republic can never be

solved, will never be solved, until we go to the radical roots of the problem, itself. Denying that it exists exacerbates the problem. The words of Thomas Jefferson are as relevant now as they were then. We can learn a lot from them. They inform the collective consciousness of Americans. Jefferson was not simply a man of his times, he is a man of our times. The present is informed by the past. To acknowledge the past is not about “guilt.” It is about the present and being responsible to the present. The dictum of James Baldwin is apropos – “Nothing can be solved that can’t be faced.” Almost anything that human beings make or do can be measured in degrees. Thomas Jefferson was a “man of his times.” Friend’s Society of Germantown in Philadelphia and the Quakers were people of Jefferson’s time as well. Young America, like the rest of the western world at that time (late 1700s) was caught in a vice between freedom one side slavery on the other between progress and the status quo, between the

age of “enlightenment,” modern ideas and the “Dark Ages.” This time in America was a rare time. Like Jefferson, the Quakers, were slaveholders. However, they were directed to free people from captivity by their faith and they did. Jefferson is credited with writing “The Declaration of Independence,” one the great documents elevating the dignity of “all men” and yet chose to deny freedom to men, women and children who were held in bondage. The contradiction between Jefferson’s written ideals and his practice as a slaveholder in a thoroughly evil system is a great part of what America is as a society over many generations. In his life, Thomas Jefferson violated the very principles that claimed freedom for all men. However, there is a way to get around that fact. Such a claim is not all that unusual in human behavior for one to hold two radically contrasting views in one mind. Nevertheless, there are overriding morals, principles, that a civilization or society claims.

The morals of Judeo-Christian and the freedom of all-humans should provide context for the final meaning of Jefferson’s life as a sincere voice for the masses. The crisis facing America today is the same crisis that faced them in Jefferson’s day. What we face are not simply politics issues to be resolved. In the words of John F. Kennedy, “We face, therefore, a moral crisis as a country and as a people. It cannot be met by repressive police action. It cannot be left to increased demonstrations in the streets. It cannot be quieted by token moves or talk. It is a time to act in the Congress, in your state and local legislative body and, above all, in all of our daily lives. It is not enough to pin the blame on others, to say this is a problem of one section of the country or another, or deplore the fact that we face. A great change is at hand, and our task, our obligation, is to make that revolution, that change, peaceful and constructive for all.”

facilities. Today, 87 percent of HIV-positive pregnant women in Haiti receive treatment to prevent the transmission of HIV to their babies, one of the highest rates in the developing world. Haiti has made significant progress but much more is needed. “There is a cohort of children who have been missed

by the routine immunization program; outbreaks of epidemic diseases still occur; and progress has been slow and limited in restoring the physical health infrastructure,” said Dr. Lowrance. After the earthquake, existing HIV/AIDS programs enabled CDC’s Haiti office to rapidly

expand its mission through postearthquake investments. “Following the earthquake, CDC expanded the partnership with the people of Haiti to not only support their fight against HIV/AIDS, but to support reconstruction and rebuilding of the health system and to respond to the subsequent cholera

epidemic,” noted Tom Kenyon, M.D., M.P.H., CDC’s director of global health. This synergy has enabled implementation of other activities related to global health security, including capacity building for the prevention, detection, and response to potential epidemic diseases and

natural disasters. “Haiti has a lot to be proud of in the health sector and we look forward to continuing this work and to helping sustain the gains Haiti has made over the last five years,” Lowrance said. For more information, http:// www.cdc.gov/media/dpk/2015/ dpk-haiti-earthquake.html

the wonderful world of the Mayo Clinic Sports Medicine Facilities with cutting edge exercise equipment! While Al McFarlane and I were in awe of the facilities, Tyrone Minor and Jaime Minor were in their element. Tyrone Minor is an American Council on Exercise (ACE) certified personal trainer and licensed physical education teacher. H is a three time state high school track and field champion, decorated former division I track and field athlete, a track and field national competitor and an Olympic trials qualifier. He prides himself in designing, creating and developing individually cutting edge fitness routines and exercises for the client. His wife, Jamie Minor, is a certified personal trainer and certified yoga instructor and has been a registered yoga teacher since 2006 and earned her Registered Yoga Teacher

200 certification from the Yoga Alliance. Jaime teaches power yoga and hot yoga, leads teaching training certification programs and creatively combines her extensive background in yoga and weight lifting to enhance the client’s physical fitness level and mind/body. Together they form the team that is giving our community the tools and support needed to create sustainable health habits throughout our lifetime. They are the team teaching us from a holistic foundation, helping us take charge of our health. Motivating and inspiring us by example. The Insight 2 Health Fitness Challenge began January 17 and goes through March 28, 2015. At the I2H January 17 kickoff event, invited guests from the Mayo clinic conducted a voluntary survey that assess relevant health history and risk factors; barriers to change; spirituality, physical activity habits, beliefs,

and support systems; and dietary habits, beliefs / and awareness. “Mayo Clinic is thankful for the opportunity that brings us to Minneapolis. Mayo Clinic will be an active member of the community and give back in ways we can to elevate lives,” said Richard C. Larsen, operations manager, Mayo Clinic Sports Medicine. As a participant who is approaching a significant age, is overweight, physically inactive and from a family background of diabetes, it’s comforting to know Insight 2 Health Fitness Challenge and the Mayo Clinic have my back. Check out www. Insight2HealthChallenge.com for more information. Thank you Mayo Clinic and welcome to the ‘neighborhood’ … hood (urban slang); el barrio (Spanish); Khu phố (Vietnamese); xaafadda (Somali); zej zog (Hmong); susjedstvo (Croation); otunwe

(Dakota Native Indian word for town/city). These are just a few of the more than 100 languages spoken in households throughout the multi-ethnic, multi-cultural, multi-diverse Twin Cities.

The Mayo Clinic Square is conveniently located at 600 Hennepin Ave. Suite 310. https:// sportsmedicine.mayoclinic.org/

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Insight News â&#x20AC;˘ January 19 - January 25, 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 9

COMMUNITY Mattie Davis: A example of excellence Mattie Davis loves and cares for people â&#x20AC;Ś all people. When someone is in need, she does what she can to help. She lives in Booth Manor, a senior high-rise across the street from Loring Park that houses 275 hundred elders, including an enclave of Russian immigrants. It troubled Davis seeing seniors who were alone during the holidays. Davis took the lead by organizing a holiday party in her building. With the hard work of a small but dedicated group, they invited a large number of residents to share their talents with each other and share the love. She went to Susan Smith, who works with the African American Professional Network (AAPN), which is

part of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota. The AAPN not only donated meals to Booth Manor, which included drinks and desserts, but the organization served the food to 100-plus seniors at the party. They also gave a holiday present to every resident in the 21-floor complex. Seniors sang holiday songs together; they read poetry, shared Russian music and dance. The multi-cultural complex is a demonstration of the importance of building community where people live. Booth Manor residents are an example of compassion, love and giving their best to each other. Mattie Davis demonstrates to all of us the importance of giving and caring for our neighbors.

Pictured are the people that helped organize the party: Front row seated: Mattie Davis. 2nd row l-r: Tiffany, Nancy Norman, Judy Burton, Judy Schreiner, and Sarah Shannon. 3rd row l-r: Heather, Adrienne Ratliff, Karen Ravine, LaToya Bell, Diane Davis, and Roger Clarke.

Senior Community Servicesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; HOME chore program expands as Neighborhood Involvement Program ends senior services Nonprofit Senior Community Services (SCS), which operates the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest chore services program for seniors, has acquired a household chore program serving Minneapolis seniors from Neighborhood Involvement Program (NIP), which ended direct client services Dec. 31. With the change, Senior Community Services is available to serve hundreds more seniors in Minneapolis, in addition to those seniors

for a more structured, and more costly, senior facility. In addition, Minneapolis residents now have access to a broad array of other helpful services from us.â&#x20AC;? The expanded HOME program now includes nearly 4,000 volunteers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a 78 percent increase â&#x20AC;&#x201C; who donated more than 18,000 hours of service annually. HOME also now encompasses a larger network of staff handypersons, homemakers, and independent

already being served by the HOME (Household and Outside Maintenance for Elderly) program elsewhere in the metro area. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Senior Community Services is pleased to bring Minneapolis seniors into our program. There is a growing need for services that help struggling and lowincome seniors and caregivers maintain independence,â&#x20AC;? said SCS CEO Deb Taylor. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Without this program, many seniors would have to trade their homes

contractors who provide lowcost home repair, cleaning, and maintenance services. Former NIP senior programâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s director, Jon Burkhow, has been hired to lead the expanded HOME program, and former NIP staff member Jeanne Rasmussen is Senior Community Servicesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; new volunteer and outreach coordinator. The expanded HOME programâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s service area includes Minneapolis, Bloomington,

Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, Crystal, Deephaven, Eden Prairie, Edina, Excelsior, Golden Valley, Greenwood, Hopkins, Long Lake, Maple Grove, Minnetonka, Minnetonka Beach, Mound, New Hope, Orono, Osseo, Plymouth, Richfield, Robbinsdale, Shorewood, Spring Park, St. Louis Park, Tonka Bay, Wayzata and Woodland. Through the HOME program, low-cost household services are available for people

60 years of age and older, regardless of income. Services include housecleaning and laundry, snow shoveling, lawn mowing, interior and exterior painting, minor repairs and plumbing, installation of safety devices, errands and grocery shopping, leaf raking and other yard chores, window washing and more. For more information on the HOME program call (952) 746-4046 or visit www. seniorcommunity.org.

Mother Dorothy Williams celebrates 98th birthday Mother Dorothy Williams celebrated her 98th birthday Jan. 14. A birthday celebration in her honor was held on Sunday, Jan. 11 at New Hope Baptist Church, 712 Bradley St., St. Paul. She was born in Kansas City, Kan. Jan. 14, 1917. St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman proclaimed Jan. 14 as Mrs. Dorothy Williamsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Day. State Representative Rena Moran, (D-65A) presented a proclamation from the Minnesota State Legislature. Williams has worked with people in the church during their times of great trouble, counseling and praying with many people throughout the Twin Cities. She is known for her famous â&#x20AC;&#x153;praise Godâ&#x20AC;? statement everywhere she

goes. Williams organized several spiritual retreats that provided an environment for life-changing meditation and renewal. Williams became president of the Minnesota Ministersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Wives and Widows International during the 1980s and 1990s. She left her mark as she traveled to its conventions around the country and throughout Canada. She later organized debutante pageants, girls clubs and administered etiquette classes for the social development of both young girls and boys. She also was a leader in the Mission Society. One of Williamsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; greatest accomplishments was when she organized the Junior Achievers in Christ (â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jayceesâ&#x20AC;?). The young ladies started with her at

the tender age of eight or nine years of age and flourished as growing women into adulthood under her devout guidance and tutelage. The leaders-in-training learned about Jesus Christ, the importance of a solid prayer life and living a Christian life, which, ultimately, lead them to knowing, believing and living out the virtues of Jesus. These ladies still stay in contact with Williams and have gone on to contribute positively to their own respective communities. Williams is a devoted mother, grandmother, great grandmother and great great grandmother to more than 60 grandchildren. For more 60 years before his passing, Williams was married to the Rev. Dr. Kneely Williams, founder of New Hope Baptist Church.

Pastor Runney D. Patterson and Mother Dorothy Williams

Classifieds

Phone: 612.588.1313

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Email: info@insightnews.com

North Memorial Needs Volunteers to Help Victims of Domestic Abuse SafeJourney, a program serving North Memorial Medical Center and Maple Grove Hospital, helps patients and individuals in the community who are experiencing domestic abuse. Volunteer advocates are needed to provide a listening ear, support, safety planning, information and referral. You do not have to have previous knowledge or experience, but rather looking for people who are sensitive to the issue, caring, and non-judgmental. Advocates sign up for 2 on-call shifts per month. Flexible scheduling - daytime, overnights, and weekends. Training is provided. Deadline to apply and schedule a short interview is January 26. Please call Suzy at 763-581-3942.

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Page 10 • January 19 - January 25, 2015 • Insight News

insightnews.com Audiyo Element

Louisa Olbekson

Margeaux Davis

Proper-T

Spencer Wirth-Davis

Eric Mayson

Mina Moore

5 for ’15

By Toki Wright Twitter - @mrwrighttc

At the heart of any city you will find music. Music pulsates through every crevice and crack in the sidewalk. Music can be found inside of every home, speaking the language of generations from each bedroom. Music tells stories from the people in various perspectives. A city that doesn’t recognize its

own soul will be at a great loss when that heartbeat stops. Following the great tradition of musicians such as Prince, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Next, Mint Condition, and Sounds of Blackness, Minnesota has developed some top prospects in R&B/ soul for 2015. These musicians bare their heart and soul and it has not gone unnoticed. Each artist on this list has the potential of becoming a nationally recognized artist or

group. Take a minute to get to know who they are before the rest of the world.

Mina Moore Soul singer Mina Moore has been quickly building a name for herself as a must-see artist in the Twin Cities. Some may have seen Moore singing backup for arguably the best live show in the state with Sonny Knight & the Lakers.

Minnesota R&B/soul’s top five new prospects

Her cool voice is reminiscent of a more edgy Corinne Bailey Rae. In December she released the first track from her forthcoming record titled “Amanhã” produced by her and Casey O’Brien. The midwinter scorcher is an excellent introduction to her music. Moore has also been very vocal about the proper representation of artists of color in the Twin Cities. After being mistaken for Ashley Dubose in an article Moore

wrote an open letter to City Pages expressing concerns with the marginalization of Black women in music. City Pages swiftly responded and some healthy dialogue came out of the mistake. For reasons like this Mina Moore has proven to be an unapologetic and refreshing new voice in Minnesota music. Listen to “Amanhã” at w w w. s o u n d c l o u d . c o m / minamoore/amanha.

Talk about proving the skeptics wrong. In a discussion on where they should hold their next show, drummer Blayr Alexander’s bandmate brother, Byron Alexander II mentioned First Avenue’s main room. Though half-joking the ambitious

FIVE TURN TO 11

PLAY/READING

Donnell Rawlings

There Are Other Worlds The Playwrights’ Center 2301 E. Franklin Ave., Minneapolis 1:30 p.m.

Sankara

Junauda Petrus Wale

Minnesota FR3SH

Aerialist and playwright Junuada Petrus invites all to a play/reading of her newest project, “There Are Other Worlds.” This reading is part of the Many Voices mentorship and the play will be released in March at Intermedia Arts.

Wednesday, Jan. 21

Jan 19 - Jan 25

Aesthetically It! is a list of picks from the editors of Aesthetically Speaking. Aesthetically It! features venues, events, outings and more that are worthy of “It” status. If you have a venue, event or outing that you feel is “It” worthy, email us at aestheticallyit@ insightnews.com

Audiyo Element

COMEDY/PERFORMANCE

Monday, Jan. 19

Varsity Theater 1308 4th St. S.E., Minneapolis 18-plus $25-$30

HIP-HOP/PERFORMANCE

Seeing a career catapult by featuring Lady Gaga on the track “Chillin” just before her

Wale

stratospheric rise to fame, Wale has gone from a little known underground MC to a major player in the music industry. Hailing from Washington, D.C. with roots in Nigeria, Wale returns to Minneapolis at The Varsity Theater in Dinkytown

with opener Doja Cat.

Tuesday, Jan. 20

KMOJ Comedy Series w/ Donnell Rawlings and Tyler Craig Rick Braun’s House of Comedy 408 East Broadway Bloomington $15 advance, $20 door 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

IT! TURN TO 12

insightnews.com

Insight News • January 19 - January 25, 2015 • Page 11

INY ASIAN DANCE THEATER’S ‘LONGING FOR QEEJ’

Dance drama showcases Hmong-American artists “Longing for Qeej” was recently presented by Iny Asian Dance Theater on Dec. 19 at Concordia University’s E.M. Pearson Theater (275 Syndicate Street North, St. Paul). “Longing for Qeej” is a Hmong dance drama, interweaving a series of acrobatic movements and dances to portray the origin of Qeej (pronounced as khang). Qeej is a mouth organ with six bamboo pipes of different lengths attached to a wooden air chamber. Iny Asian Dance Theater is a dance troupe famous for its explosive physical capabilities, beautiful costumes that utilize traditional fashion fused with contemporary fashion, and contemporary music from different Asian regions. Created by award winning choreographer Iny Xiong, “Longing for Qeej” was a unique dance drama that showcased several Hmong

Five From 10 Blayr said “why not” and began putting the gears in motion to present a new showcase called “The Main Event.” While many held low expectations for the event the collective was able to pull in a crowd of more than 700-plus people with the help of a stellar lineup. Audiyo Element’s group members are Blayr Alexander (drums), Colin Elliston (bass), Mike Green (guitar), Byron Alexander II (Lyrics/MC), Ebony Nelson (vocals), Mikal Garrett (vocals/keys), Jay Jemenii (vocals) and Marcus Woodard (keys). In the vein of Mint Condition the group

Photos: Nolan Ly

The Qeej Dance, performed by IADT dancers. American artists and their talents. The performance attracted an audience of more than 350 who enjoyed the family friendly, Hmong dance drama. As told in the folklore, Sinsay is a great Hmong warrior. Whenever Sinsay won a challenge, his prize was to marry one beautiful woman from that kingdom.

Eventually, Sinsay conquered seven kingdoms with seven wives and enjoyed seven celebrations. In total, 23 dances were performed throughout the show. As legend has it, God decided to have a grand festival to honor Sinsay. All seven wives arrived, found out each other and God told the women, “If all seven of

is made up of bona fide musicians. Check out Audiyo Elements work at www.audiyoelement. com.

Speaking article it was also noted that Davis appeared in productions of “Rent” and “Ragtime” and has performed the National Anthem at both Timberwolves and Lynx games.” After playing countless shows pounding the pavement to be recognized it is finally starting to pay off. Raising more than her $2,500 goal on Kickstarter, Davis was able to fund the debut project “Won’t Do It Again.” The seven-song EP feature tracks such as “Love My Life” and the first single, “Jet Lagged.” Davis has a larger than life voice and a “take no prisoners” stage show. Though rumored to be relocating to New York City fans have an opportunity to

Margeaux Davis Fearless singer-songwriter Margueax Davis got the ultimate “good look” from English songstress Marsha Ambrosius at the Fine Line Music Café when she was handed the microphone mid concert. The compliment Ambrosius gave Davis helped to push along the buzz that she’d been building in the music scene for years. In an earlier Aesthetically

Hero - Sinsay, performed by XueFeng Lee and Hmong Heroes. you say that each of you are his wife, then each of you must go and make something so that when all seven parts are put together into one, words will come out of it.” So each of them went off to make something, and all came back with different length of pipes. The seven pipes were put together, becoming one

instrument – Qeej – and when it was blown, the words came out in one unified sound. God declared that all of the women were Sinsay’s true wives. Since then, the Qeej has become the symbol of the Hmong culture. One of the special guests during the show was Dr. Yang Dao, who composed

“Ib Lub Neej Tshiab” (A New Beginning). “Hearing my song with the dance, brings me so much joy, it reminds me when I was younger in the days,” said Dao. The event is made possible in part by the grant provided by the MN Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

check out Davis online and locally until the move takes place. Learn more about Margeaux Davis online at www.facebook.com/ margeauxdavismusic.

surprised the internet by releasing a reinterpretation of John Lennon’s “Isolation.” Clocking in at just over two and a half minutes, the short introduction caught the ear of many in the music scene and was instantly added to local radio playlists. Now in the studio with Big Cats working on his full-length project Mayson is poised to release a major solo effort in 2015. Hear “Isolation” online at www.soundcloud.com/ericmayson/isolation.

titled “The One.” I remember asking Grease who the standout crooner was because of his unique, polished sound. Since then Proper-T has released multiple tracks with Grease, started his own band, Soulflower Collective, plays alongside Grease in Afrofuturist band, ZULUZULUU and has been stepping out on his own. With a piano-vocal combination reminiscent of D’angelo, Proper-T capitalizes on a minimalist format to captivate an audience. Look for him to make some major noise nationally this year. Proper T quietly released the 8-track project “Revelations” in February. Listen to “Revelations” at www.proper-t.bandcamp.com.

Eric Mayson Eric Mayson may be the most well rounded new musician in Minnesota. A virtual one man band, he is a singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist. Most known for singing with hiphop fusion group Crunchy Kids, Mayson has been touring nationally and singing alongside Toki Wright and Big Cats. In August of 2014 Mayson

Proper-T My first introduction to Proper T was listening to the then unreleased track by his cousin, Greg Grease

Page 12 • January 19 - January 25, 2015 • Insight News

insightnews.com

Motirô: Afro-Brazilian contemporary dance at Cowles Center The percussive music weaving through the enormous, crowded hall of the 2008 Joinville Dance Festival, the largest international dance festival in Brazil, caught the attention of choreographer Marciano Silva dos Santos like never before. “I kept following the music,” explained Silva dos Santos. “I could barely hear it at first, but it was all I could focus on. It was like love-at-first-sight when everything around the person is suspended for a moment. Except it wasn’t a person, it was music. I connected to it instantly.” Silva dos Santos followed the connection to find a humble, soft spoken and friendly composer, Divanir Antonio “Divan” Gattamorta. In 2011 Marciano cofounded Contempo Physical Dance in St. Paul and asked Gattamorta if he could use the recorded music he received at

the festival for Contempo’s first full-length work, to which he agreed. That work, “Motirô,” premiered at the Ritz Theater in Minneapolis to sold-out audiences in 2012. Silva dos Santos worked

with Gattamorta again in 2014 for the production of “SenZalma,” which premiered at The Cowles Center. They worked across borders using Skype to simultaneously create the musical score and

choreography. They haven’t met in person since that day at the Joinville Dance Festival, but they are connected by the unusual rhythm and musicality of their work as they create new music and

IT!

$15 advance, $18 door 7:30 p.m.

and Greg Schutte (composer).

cross-discipline multicultural concert series focused on recognizing, accepting and celebrating differences between artistic disciplines, cultures, and communities.

From 10 Known for his “Ashy Larry” character from “The Chappelle Show,” Donnell Rawlings hits the House of Comedy along with comedian Tyler Craig. The show is hosted by Shed G of the “KMOJ Morning Show.”

Thursday, Jan. 22 PLAY “U/G/L/Y” Intermedia Arts 2822 Lyndale Ave. S., Minneapolis

Motirô by Contempo Physical Dance

Sha Cage curates the second in her three-part trilogy that looks into identity. Her first play of the series, “N-Word,” played to sold out audiences and “U/G/L/Y” is on pace to do the same. “‘U/G/L/Y’ conjures a rare immediacy while invoking laughter, tears, and hollers all in the same breath,” said Cage. Collaborators include Katherine Pehrson (violin), E.G. Bailey (director), Chastity Brown (vocals/musician), Ananya Chatterjea (movement advisor), Sherine Onukwuwe, SoulEye Films (film/video), Janaki Ranpura (installation artist), Keena Sarge (choreographer)

Tickets are $10 for groups of eight or more and range up to $25 for the performance. Tickets are available online at www.ima.tixato.com/buy/ugly or by calling (612) 871-4444

Friday, Jan. 23 MULTI-GENRE/ PERFORMANCE “Shifting Perspectives” Bedlam Lowertown 213 4th St., St. Paul 7 p.m. $10 – $12 Part one of a four part series, “Shifting Perspectives” is a

Dwayne Williams

For more information email info@shiftingperspectivesart. com.

Saturday, Jan. 24 HIP-HOP/PERFORMANCE Hip-Hop for Earth liberation benefit concert and teach-in Minnehaha Free Space 3747 Minnehaha Ave., Minneapolis 21-plus

dance. Working with Gattamorta on “SenZalma” compelled Silva dos Santos to go back and relook at the music and choreography of his first work. “Divan’s prerecorded music was great for the work, but I was curious what would happen if we created original music for it,” said Silva dos Santos. With Silva dos Santos in St. Paul and Gattamorta in Brazil, they began to work on the new music. Contempo Physical Dance will perform “Motirô” with new, original music at the Cowles Center for Dance and the Performing Arts, 528 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, Jan. 30 – Feb. 1. Contempo Physical Dance aspires to be internationally recognized for its dynamic Afro-Brazilian contemporary dance fusion. Now in its fourth season, the company is dedicated to contemporary

dance research, the creation of vibrant new movement, and the performance of dance works that challenge human physicality and invigorate audiences everywhere. Founder, artistic director and choreographer, Silva dos Santos, is a native of Brazil and came to the United States after being recognized by the American Folkloric Society as a culturally diverse artist of exceptional merit. Contempo Physical Dance presents “Motirô” Friday, Jan. 30, 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 31, 7:30 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 1, 2:00 p.m. The Cowles Center for Dance & the Performing Arts, 528 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis For tickets ($20-$25, all fees included), visit www.thecowlescenter.org/ calendar-tickets/contempophysical-dance-1 or call the box office at (612) 206-3600.

6:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. Suggested donation $5 (no one turned away)

Art of Liberia and Sierra Leone” Minneapolis Institute of Arts 2400 3rd Ave. S., Minneapolis Free general admission (exhibition tickets available)

This is a benefit concert and teach-In for Unist’ot’en First Nation activist blockade against an oil pipeline through their lands. The event has been listed as a “family oriented, disability accessible, sober space.” Performances by The Fr3sh Mn aka Chris Lollie, Joe Davis, and many more.

Sunday, Jan. 25 ART GALLERY “Visions from the Forests: The

“Visions from the Forests” surveys the art of Liberia and Sierra Leone collected by William “Bill” Siegmann (1943–2011), a former curator of African art at the Brooklyn Museum who lived and worked in Liberia between 1965 and 1987. A Minneapolis native, Siegmann donated many of his treasures to the Minneapolis Institute of Arts in 2011. The exhibition run through Feb. 8. Tickets are available at www. new.artsmia.org/visit/tickets/#.