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Insight News January 30 - February 5, 2017
Vol. 44 No. 5• The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com
Proud to be ‘Who We Are’ TURN TO PAGE 2
Rebecca Rabb
Page 2 • January 30 - February 5, 2017 • Insight News
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About the cover … “This mural is dedicated to our ancestors, who give us the will to use our creativity in pursuit of building a more just existence for our community.” Those words accompany the powerful mural, “Who We Are,” that is emblazoned upon the east wall of Juxtaposition Arts, 2007 Emerson Ave. N. The mural is the result of a collaborative effort by Juxtaposition Art students Kymari Love, Destiny Howard,
Antonio Bell-Cepeda, Namir Fearce, Cameron Downey, Salem Murre, Rochelle Lund, Catherine Kisongo, Changō Cummings, Ysabella Johnson, Adrienne Doyle, Tia-Simone Garner and Roger Cummings along with Emory Douglas and Jamal Cyrus. Insight News photojournalist Rebecca Rabb photographed the artists during the mural’s painting and the project upon completion. “Who We Are” is inspired
by the works of Emory Douglas, former minister of culture to the Black Panther Party for Self Defense (1969-1979). Work began on the mural in June of 2016, shortly after the passing of Prince and Muhammad Ali. The mural’s rays are filled with images of Black cultural icons such as Malcolm X, Jackie Robinson, Jimi Hendrix, the Hon. Elijah Muhammad and Janet Jackson. It also offers images of those tragically lost
to brutality, racism and police violence such as Emmett Till, Michael Brown, Sandra Bland and others. During the making of this mural the area and the nation saw the killings of both Philando Castile in St. Paul and Alton Sterling in Baton Rouge. “We also saw Lashae Jones lose her two year old toddler, Le’Vonte King Jones, a few blocks from the JXTA campus,” the plaque accompanying the mural reads, referencing to a
shooting that took place on Penn Avenue near Lowery Avenue. “In this spirit of affirming Black life we see the basis of the mural as the Black Madonna, a historical figure that depicts mother and child as the iconic symbols of the continuity of life. As a spiritual symbol the Black Madonna is found in Afro-diasporic faith systems, such as in the Haitian Vodun faith, in which she takes the form of Erzulie to represent ideas of beauty and love.
“We believe Black Madonna is an inherently revolutionary figure because she represents source of power, which counters the more pervasive images of Black women and children as submissive and helpless. The Black woman is a pillar of the Black community and so the mother and child image is also deeply political. She pushes us to think about freedom not as a ballistic series of events but as a space of radical communion.”
An artist puts the finishing touches on “Who We Are,” a powerful mural celebrating Blackness on the Juxtaposition Arts wall at 2007 Emerson Ave. N. in Minneapolis.
The finished mural, “Who We Are.”
Images from one of the rays of “Who We Are.”
Photos that make up the child of Black Madonna – the central figure of Juxtaposition Arts’ “Who We Are.” Photos by Rebecca Rabb.
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aesthetically speaking
Aesthetically It!: Events, concerts, venues in the Twin Cities
MORE ON PAGE 10
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Insight News January 30 - February 5, 2017
Vol. 44 No. 5• The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com
Melvin Carter kicks off campaign for St. Paul mayor
Photo courtesy of Melvin Carter for Saint Paul
Melvin Carter Melvin Carter, former St. Paul city councilmember and advisor to Gov. Mark Dayton, kicked off his campaign for mayor of St. Paul with a grassroots event and door knock on St. Paul’s East Side. “My great-grandparents came to St. Paul looking for a safe and welcoming community, the chance to get ahead, and the hope of a better life for their children,” said Carter, speaking to a room of supporters in A Greener Read, an independent bookstore located at 506 E. Kenny Rd. “We have work to do to fulfill St. Paul’s promise for every person in every part of our
city. That’s why I’m running for mayor.” After the event, Carter’s supporters braved brisk temperatures and snowy streets to talk to their neighbors about why they support Carter as the next mayor of east metro city. Last summer the campaign launched a series of listening sessions, called Imagine St. Paul, hosted in homes and small businesses in every ward. Earlier this month, Carter hosted a concert and fundraiser to celebrate his 38th birthday at Amsterdam Bar in downtown
CARTER 7
Margot Lee Shetterly
‘Hidden Figures’ leading in the box office as story of excellence resonates with audiences
Book author credits Black Press archives as part of her research By Harry Colbert, Jr. Managing Editor Who would have guessed that the story about ordinary women doing extraordinary things would be resonating with so many?
In its first two weeks of national release, “Hidden Figures” – the story of the African-American women whose mathematical genius guided America’s space program – sat atop the box office ratings, bringing in nearly $60 million and earning an additional $16.3
million in its third week, though it was outpaced in week three by “Split” and “xXx: The Return of Xander Cage.” At least one person is not surprised at the film’s success. That person is the author who penned the book, “Hidden Figures: The American Dream and the Untold
Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race,” Margot Lee Shetterly. “I think a lot of people are really hungry for this kind of story … a story of American
SHETTERLY 9
Survey affirms reasons Twin Cities has problem retaining professionals of color By Harry Colbert, Jr. Managing Editor For some, they didn’t need a survey to confirm what they already knew, but to the corporate executives, they had to see the data spelled out for them. For years, Twin Cities companies have been victim to a brain drain when it pertains to retaining people of color. The issue was reported on three years ago in the Jan. 20 – Jan. 26, 2014 edition of Insight News. Now, Make it MSP, an organization dedicated to recruiting and retaining talent to the Twin Cities, has made it a top priority to stop the exodus. But in order to stop it, they needed to understand what was causing it in the first place. Make it MSP conducted a study surveying more than 1,200 people of color to find out what factors led to their decision to locate to the Twin Cities, what’s keeping them here and why might they choose to leave. The fact that it was a mystery to many in the majority may be part of the problem, as nonwork factors were often addressed in a one size fits all approach. “I think (the results of the survey) is something a lot of us who have been here a while already knew,” said James
Rep. Keith Ellison
Ellison pens op-ed, says Democrats will unite and take back the country By Rep. Keith Ellison Unity is often discussed, but difficult to obtain and maintain. In 1964, Democrats unified around Civil Rights to create a winning coalition. That unity took guts, especially since it risked the last of the Southern Democrats. Four years later, in 1968, the Democratic convention was marked by conflicts about Vietnam, race and the assassinations of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Bobby Kennedy and Malcolm X. Discord and the inability to pull the coalitions together led to the Nixon Administration, which brought us the War on Drugs, the Southern Strategy, Watergate, etc. When Democrats fail to unite, the American people pay. Today, we are at another
crossroads. We have a president who actively seeks to divide the American people. He blames economic hardship on immigrants and peddles racial stereotypes about African-Americans. He recently attacked my hero and colleague, Rep. John Lewis, saying his district was “falling apart” and “crime infested.” We’ve seen these dog whistles before, cynically designed to divide white Americans from their Black neighbors. Now, more than ever, every person who values equality, fairness and respect must come together for our country. But unity doesn’t just happen. It takes work and an understanding that we are stronger when we fight for opportunity for all. These are, after all, the core values we share.
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Business
Tax tips for the Black community
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Commentary
I2H
Tips to get in shape in 2017
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Scott’s story: Lessons children teach adults
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SURVEY 9
Community
Adult Academic Program’s Memory Quilt project wins two state awards
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Business
Defining your legacy FUNdraising Good Times
By Mel and Pearl Shaw Each day we are creating the legacy that one day we will leave to our family and the world. We do it with our words and daily actions. We do it with our giving. What is most important to you and your family? How do you want to be remembered?
INSIGHT NEWS
When an organization captures your heart you think about how you can contribute to their work. You give of your time, resources and talents. You can also plan to continue your giving in the future, even when you’re gone. You can start at 20 years old or 70. Age is not a barrier. Think about the assets you have or may accumulate – your home, IRA, 401K, stocks and bonds, rental properties, life insurance and other investments. Have you made a decision about what will happen to these upon your death? Are you willing to give some of what you have accumulated to help advance those things you believe in? You can. And you can provide for your family as well. It’s not an “either or” choice. Take time to consider what you want your legacy to be and
to whom you want to leave your assets. Set aside time to talk with your family about this. Then talk with your accountant or attorney and ask for guidance. They can
or attorney, talk with friends to learn who they trust and give that person a call. Depending upon the specifics of your assets and what
Take time to consider what you want your legacy to be and to whom you want to leave your assets.
provide you with information or refer you to someone they trust who specializes in what you are trying to accomplish. If you don’t have an accountant
you are trying to accomplish, you may be able to obtain immediate tax benefits, help your heirs decrease their tax liability, and/ or increase the assets you leave
to them and others. Talk to your attorney and accountant about a living trust. Here are a few things to consider. When considering IRA, 401K, insurance policies, brokerage accounts know each of these allow you to designate a beneficiary. The beneficiary is the person or organization to whom you would like to leave the account’s funds. You can leave all the funds within an account to one organization or you can split the funds among several organizations. And, yes, you can leave a portion, or the majority, to your family members at the same time. Check online for the forms you need to set this up. You can also purchase a life insurance policy and designate an organization you believe in as the beneficiary. This is an often
over-looked way of leaving a large gift through small monthly payments. Talk to your insurance broker about this. You can leave your home and/or commercial property to your church, a college or nonprofit through your will, a trust or another estate planning vehicle. Talk with an attorney and tax advisor to learn what would be best for you. Take the time to define your legacy. Think about who and what is important to you and take action. Copyright 2017 – Mel and Pearl Shaw Mel and Pearl Shaw are authors of four books on fundraising available on Amazon.com. For more, visit www.saadandshaw.com or call (901) 522-8727.
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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 Managing Editor Harry Colbert, Jr. Associate Editor Afrodescendientes Carmen Robles Associate Editor Nigeria & West Africa Chief Folarin Ero-Phillips Associate Editor Culture and Education Dr. Irma McClaurin Associate Editor Leadership and Social Enterprise Dr. Anita Davis-DeFoe Director of Content & Production Patricia Weaver Content & Production Coordinator Sunny Thongthi Yang Distribution/Facilities Manager Jamal Mohamed Receptionist Lue B. Lampley Contributing Writers Melvin Carter, Jr. Julie Desmond Fred Easter Gloria Freeman Timothy Houston Penny Jones-Richardson Michelle Mitchum Darren Moore Artika Tyner Toki Wright Photography David Bradley Rebecca Rabb Contact Us: Insight News, Inc. Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Ave. N. Minneapolis., MN 55411 Ph.: (612) 588-1313 Fax: (612) 588-2031 Member: Minnesota Multicultural Media Consortium (MMMC), Midwest Black Publishers Coalition, Inc. (MBPCI), National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) Postmaster: Send address changes to McFarlane Media Interests, Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55411.
Tax tips for the Black community By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Contributor Tax season has officially begun and it’s time to find those deductibles and items that might help offset some of what you might have to pay the government by April 15. For African-Americans, filing income taxes has never been simple – nor has it historically been anything to look forward to. “One thing that’s certain at the top of each year is tax season. Yes, that one thing that most of us dread yet we know we have a short window of time to complete what should be done as the new year begins,” said Cozette White, an author, financial analyst and tax strategist. White is also founder and CEO of My Financial Home Enterprises, a financial management firm. White said it’s important to decide early on who will be preparing your returns. “Tax preparers are the least trained, but the cheapest to hire,” she said, noting that enrolled agents are typically more competent than tax preparers but much less so than a certified public accountant. Further, White said it’s important to be organized. “Schedule your appointment early, especially if you have a child applying for financial aid and, if you have not updated your payroll department with your new address, do so today to avoid delays,” said White. The new tax year accompanies an interesting set of new facts for AfricanAmericans, according to the White House. For instance, the unemployment rate for AfricanAmericans has seen a larger percentage-point decline in the recovery, much faster than
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the overall unemployment rate over the last year, President Barack Obama’s administration reported. The real median income of Black households increased by 4.1 percent between 2014 and 2015 and President Obama enacted permanent expansions of the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit, which together now provides about 2 million African-American working families with an average tax cut of about $1,000 each. A recent report from the Census Bureau revealed that the real median household income grew 5.2 percent from 2014 to 2015, the fastest annual growth on record. Income grew for households, with the fastest growth among lower- and middle-income households. The number of people in poverty fell by 3.5 million, leading the poverty rate to fall from 14.8 percent to 13.5 percent, the largest one-year drop since 1968, with even larger improvements including for African-Americans, LatinoAmericans and children. The poverty rate for African-Americans fell faster in 2015 than in any year since
1999. While the poverty rate fell across all racial and ethnic groups, according to a Census Bureau study released last year, it fell 2.1 percentage points for African-Americans, resulting in 700,000 fewer AfricanAmericans in poverty. African-American children also made large gains in 2015, with the poverty rate falling 4.2 percentage points and 400,000 fewer children in poverty. So, for tax time, it means more African-Americans need to better understand what they should and shouldn’t do and what deductions and credits might be available. White urges contributions to 2016 Roth accounts and, if donations have been made to charities in any amount above $250, be sure and have the proof to support the write-off. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) says that charitable contributions are deductible in the year made and donations charged to a credit card before the end of 2016 count for the 2016 tax year, even if the bill isn’t paid until 2017. Also, checks to a charity count for 2016 if they are mailed by the last day of the year. Taxpayers who are over
age 70 ½ are generally required to receive payments from their individual retirement accounts and workplace retirement plans by the end of 2016, though a special rule allows those who reached 70 ½ in 2016 to wait until April 1 to receive them. So, what else can be done to limit tax liabilities for individuals and businesses? “Defer bonuses,” said Lisa Greene-Lewis, a certified public accountant and Turbo Tax consultant. “If your hard work paid off this year and you are expecting a year-end bonus, this extra money in your pocket may bump you up to another tax bracket and increase your tax liability,” said Greene-Lewis. Folasade Ayegbusi, a certified public accountant (CPA) and owner of Suncrest Financial Services in Maryland, advises business owners to call their payroll processing company and have them process a one-time annual salary amount to satisfy any S-Corp reasonable compensation requirement. Also, she said, purchasing depreciable assets like a car, furniture, iPad, computer and other items needed for a business would help offset any tax burden. Randy Hughes, founder
of Counting Pennies, a nationwide tax and accounting firm that specializes in tax preparation, bookkeeping and debt management, said AfricanAmericans need to immediately think about taxes and not wait until the April 15 deadline. Hughes recommends making wise business purchases, maximizing health savings accounts and managing tax withholdings and exceptions. “Employees that changed jobs or started a new job should review their tax withholdings and exemptions claimed on their new hire paperwork,” said Hughes. “Claiming too few exemptions could result in giving the government more money than necessary, which could result in a cash flow problem for you during the year.” Perhaps as important as any suggestions, the IRS said it continues to see an uptick in tax scams – one of the most recent involved a caller telling a taxpayer that he or she is entitled to a large refund, but first must hand over a certain amount of money first. “Taxpayers across the nation face a deluge of these aggressive phone scams,” IRS Commissioner John Koskinen said in a statement. “Don’t be fooled by callers pretending to be from the IRS in an attempt to steal your money. We continue to say, ‘if you are surprised to be hearing from us, then you’re not hearing from us.’”
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Insight News • January 30 - February 5, 2017 • Page 5
Insight 2 Health
Keep an eye out for glaucoma The National Eye Institute encourages people to save their sight from vision loss and blindness by knowing their risk for glaucoma and doing something about it. Glaucoma is a group of diseases that damages the eye’s optic nerve. It can lead to vision loss or blindness if left untreated. More than half of all people with glaucoma don’t know they have it. And, quite often, by the time
people are diagnosed with glaucoma, they have already begun to notice changes in their side, or peripheral, vision. This is especially true for African-Americans. Those over age 40 and those with a family history of glaucoma are at higher risk for the disease. More than 520,000 African-Americans have glaucoma, and this number is expected to increase by
January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month
more than 300,000 over the next 15 years. The disease is a leading cause of blindness among African-Americans. African-Americans over 40 are encouraged to see their eye care professional and get a comprehensive dilated eye exam every one to two years. Eye professionals warn not to wait until vision problems arise to see an eye care specialist. To learn more about how
to protect against glaucoma visit www.nei.nih.gov/ glaucoma. The National Eye Institute (NEI) leads the federal government’s research on the visual system and eye diseases. NEI supports basic and clinical science programs to develop sight-saving treatments and address the special needs of people with vision loss.
Tips to get in shape in 2017 Courtesy of StatePoint Every year, losing weight and living a healthier lifestyle top millions of people’s New Year’s resolutions lists. Unfortunately, it’s a lot easier to set a goal than it is to actually achieve it, so it’s important to have a game plan in order to see results. Here are some sustainable tips to help lose weight and feel great in 2017. Set goals mindfully Setting a goal to “lose weight” sounds great, but it is pretty vague. It’s hard to achieve a goal without a specific plan or focus. Remember to think about health beyond just the numbers on the scale. Whether it’s deciding to train for a 5k race or choosing to reduce one’s sugar intake by half, getting specific and setting realistic goals helps get a clear sense as to whether one was successful.
Seek support Even a well-balanced diet combined with exercise can use extra support. any disease. “The lifestyle-based approach to dieting can mean better and more sustainable results than fads that require you to eat only from limited list of foods,” said Greg Horn, formulator of Modere M3, a weight management
system. The Modere M3 plan requires a person to make key changes that support health and weight management by letting the person pick three of the five healthy lifestyle behavior options such as committing to walking 7,500 steps a day, cutting out fried foods and sugary drinks, or avoiding refined flour and white rice.
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Missing money? We’ll help you find it.
Get hydrated One simple way to cut back calories and sugar is to make water the drink of choice. Eliminate highcalorie beverages like juice and soda. Start the New Year off by setting a simple goal of drinking at least five 12-ounce glasses of water a day. Sustainable meal planning A sustainable diet is not about deprivation, it’s about eating nutritious, enjoyable meals. For example, a Mediterranean diet, which focuses on fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and healthy fats like olive oil often offers better nutrition, better flavors and better results than a fad diet. In fact, people who followed a Mediterranean diet lost 52 percent more weight than those with a standard low-fat diet according to a study published in a peer reviewed journal. Over a period of two years, the Mediterranean diet group lost 9.7 pounds while the low fat diet group only lost 6.3 pounds. Make exercise fun Exercise is critical for a healthy body and mind. Whether it’s taking the dog out for a daily walk, signing up for a dance class or committing to hitting the gym three to four times a week, find a workout routine and commit to it.
Common types of unclaimed property include: • Uncashed checks • Forgotten bank accounts • Insurance settlements
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Page 6 • January 30 - February 5, 2017 • Insight News
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Commentary Scott’s story: Lessons children teach adults Child Watch
By Marian Wright Edelman A number of years ago, I heard a deeply moving story at a Children’s Miracle Network event – a charity that raises money in partnership with Children’s hospitals around the country and helps serve sick and injured children in their local communities. A speaker shared this heartwrenching story of a father and son with the audience and agreed to let me share it with others after I requested a copy. According to the speaker, the father began his story with a question.
“Everything God does is done to perfection. Yet, my son Scott cannot learn things the way other children do. He cannot understand things as other children do. Where is God’s plan reflected in my son,” asked the father. “I believe that when God brings a child like Scott into the world, an opportunity to realize the divine plan presents itself. And it comes in the way people treat that child.” He then shared this experience. “Scott and I were walking past a park where some boys were playing baseball and Scott asked, ‘Do you think they will let me play?’ I knew most boys would not want Scott on their team. But I understood that if he was allowed to play it would give him a much-needed sense of belonging. “I approached one of the boys on the field and asked if Scott could play. The boy looked
around for guidance from his teammates. Getting none, the boy said, ‘We are losing by six runs, and the game is in the eighth inning. I guess he can be on our team and we’ll try to put him up to bat in the ninth inning.’ “In the bottom of the eighth inning, Scott’s team scored a few runs but was still behind three. At the top of the ninth inning, Scott put on a glove and played outfield. Although no hits came his way, he was obviously ecstatic just to be on the field, grinning from ear to ear as I waved to him from the stands. “In the bottom of the ninth inning, Scott’s team scored again. With two outs and the bases loaded, the potential winning run was on base. Scott was scheduled to be next at bat. Would the team actually let Scott bat, and give away their chance to win the game? “Scott was given the bat.
Everyone knew a hit was all but impossible because Scott didn’t even know how to hold the bat properly, much less hit the ball. Scott stepped up to the plate, the pitcher moved a few steps to lob the ball softly so Scott could have a chance to make contact. The first pitch came and Scott swung clumsily and missed. “The pitcher again took a few steps forward to toss the ball softly toward Scott. As the pitch came in, Scott swung at the ball and hit a slow ground ball to the pitcher. The pitcher picked up the soft grounder and could easily have thrown the ball to the first baseman to end the game. “Instead the pitcher took the ball and threw it on a high arc to right field, far beyond the first baseman. Everyone started yelling, ‘Scott, run to first. Run to first.’ Never in his life had Scott ever made it to first base. He scampered down the baseline, wide-eyed and startled.
“Everyone yelled, ‘Run to second. Run to second.’ The right fielder had the ball and easily could have thrown the ball to second base for a tag. But he understood the pitcher’s intention, so he threw the ball high and far over the third baseman’s head. Scott ran towards second base and the runners ahead of him deliriously circled the bases towards home. “As Scott reached second base, the opposing shortstop ran to him, turned him in the direction of third base, and shouted, ‘Run to third.’ As Scott rounded third, the boys from both teams were screaming, ‘Scott, run home.’ “Scott ran home, stepped on home plate and was cheered as the hero, for hitting a ‘grand slam’ and winning the game for his team. “That day,” said the father softly with tears now rolling down his face, “the boys from
both teams helped bring a piece of the divine plan into the world.” If the actions of the boys on both teams were part of God’s divine plan for the world, as Scott’s father and I believe, we should all follow their example in high places and low places – honoring the sanctity of every child and human person. Not only must every adult respect the dignity of every human person regardless of disability, race, gender, income or religion, they must teach children by their example whether presidents or preachers or parents or teachers, that every human being is of equal value. Marian Wright Edelman is president of the Children’s Defense Fund. For more information go to www. childrensdefense.org.
What to expect from the Trump camp By William Reed Ask anyone what they think of Donald Trump and you are guaranteed one of two reactions … “He is great” (I admire his guts, love his strength and honesty) or “he is awful” (he is a disgusting, self-serving bigot and demagogue). When during the campaign Trump said, “What have you got to lose” talking about the current conditions of many living in our nation’s inner cities, he didn’t move many AfricanAmericans. He got less than 8 percent of the Black vote, while Hillary Clinton ran away with 88 percent, winning 94 percent
of Black women and 80 percent of Black men. American voters are far more pessimistic about progress in race relations under Trump. Nearly half of U.S. voters (46 percent) expect Trump’s election will lead to worse race relations, while just 25 percent say they will improve and 26 percent say there will be no difference. Roughly threequarters of Blacks (74 percent) expect race relations to worsen under Trump’s presidency; while just 5 percent expect them to improve (17 percent expect little change). Will it be business as usual for Blacks under a Trump administration? As Trump moves into the Oval Office, Republicans
predict Trump will be a sort of CEO-president, setting grand strategy for the country. Blacks in business and entrepreneurial ventures expect low taxes, light regulation and free markets where capitalists can start and thrive with a minimum of government involvement. Who has Trump’s ear to set strategy toward his “new deal for Black America.” The billionaire rarely talks with and to blacks. In his campaigning Trump talked about Blacks’ plight in America; criticizing years of Democratic rule for leaving Black America behind. “American politics is caught in a, time loop. We keep electing the same people over and over and over,” said
Trump, addressing issues affecting the Black community. “My deal is grounded in three promises – safe communities, great education and high-paying jobs.” It’s time Blacks ignore paid Democratic operatives and engage “new thinking.” Too many African-Americans have been left behind. So, what can AfricanAmericans expect from a Trump administration? Who is helping Trump set goals and strategy that affect Black America? Why aren’t there more Blacks speaking to and about “Black issues?” With Black Americans suspicions of Trump, will he seek to attain, or exceed, the “diversity levels” of the Clinton, Bush
and Obama administrations? Recently, Trump brought Jim Brown to a meeting at Trump Tower with it pegged as a discussion about issues facing the African-American community. Cleveland Pastor Darrell Scott orchestrated the meeting. Former “Apprentice” star Omarosa Manigault sat in on the meeting in which Trump gave a “verbal commitment” to Brown’s Amer-I-Can program. For decades, Brown has been active in inner-cities with AmerI-Can programs to “empower individuals to take charge of their lives and achieve their full potential.” While Jim Brown and Don King are great Photo ops, Trump needs some Jesse Lee Peterson, J.C. Watts and
Claude Anderson-types too. If Trump is smart he’ll do all he can to erase the stigma of the racially divisive 2016 campaign. One way of dealing with that image will be deploying African-American surrogates in high-profile positions that signal diversity. Will we see African-American Republicans talking about conservative social policies in ways that are connected and resonate in black communities? William Reed is publisher of “Who’s Who in Black Corporate America” and available for projects via Busxchng@his.com
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Insight News • January 30 - February 5, 2017 • Page 7
Education Ellison: Students don’t feel represented in history they are taught Afro descen dientes By Ingrid Ferlo Contributing Editor When it comes to education in the public schools, Kim Ellison is an expert with innovative ideas. She was recently reelected to serve at large on the
Minneapolis Public Schools Board, capturing with 80 percent of the vote. As a member of the board, Ellison doesn’t shy away from the issues facing the district. “There is institutional racism within our education system and the Minnesota Public Schools (MPS) are no different,” she said discussing issues of disparities among students of color in public schools. Ellison was recently a guest (Jan. 10) on the “Conversations with Al McFarlane,” which airs live every Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. on 90.3 FM (KFAI) and
reaches global audiences on www.kfai.org. Ellison’s platform includes closing the achievement gap and expanding access to ethnic studies courses. One major issue she has noticed is the need to have more teachers of color. According to Ellison, 66 percent of MPS students are of color, yet only 10 percent of teachers are of color. The board member said newly hired superintendent, Ed Graff, has made it a priority to hire more teachers who reflect the majority student population. To change the dynamics in the
classroom for the students, last year the district invested in the Grow Your Own program that offers avenues for students and non-teaching staff of color to earn education degrees. The program is starting its second cohort, which Ellison said will increase diverse instructor representation in the classroom. Ellison also believes that history courses need to be given priority, but currently are taught unequally where Eurocentric histories are taught as main courses while histories of people of color are taught as electives. She said she often hear‘s
students say that they don’t feel represented in the history that they are being taught. “We can serve all students within the public house district,” said Ellison, saying she is determined to create an allinclusive space for students to learn about their history so that no student feels left behind. With a budget of $758 million, more than 38,000 students and 6,000 employees, Ellison said the Minneapolis Public Schools are looking at investing in professional development for teachers and create relevant, inclusive
curriculums and more offer engagement with Black communities. She said looking forward she feels very hopeful about improvements being made by the district. For overall student success Ellison said parents need to have more presence in demanding quality education for their children. “(Parents should) look for opportunities to engage to make sure that their voices are being heard at tables that represent them,” said Ellison.
Asian Media Access hosted cultural exchange trip to South Korea
Photos courtesy of Asian Media Access
Asian Media Access’s Youth Cultural Ambassador Team (center photo) spent more than two weeks in Seoul, South Korea and shared images from their travels. The group later visited China on its Far East excursion. After a year of preparation, Asian Media Access’ executive director Ange Hwang led a 14-members delegation to China and Korea to support cultural exchange opportunities, from Dec. 14 to Dec. 31. Asian Media Access’s Youth Cultural Ambassador Team included 11 young members and performers. They were MaiYoua Her, Jason Lee, Aeola Lu, Saysetha Philaphandeth, Keng Thao, Nancy Thor, Alexis Vang,
Carter From 3 St. Paul. Local performers and longtime friends, including Toki Wright, PaviElle French,
Lucy Vang, Nooshilon Vang, Karen Yang and PaTher Yang. The delegation’s first stop was Seoul, South Korea. The youth performed open street dances at Hongdae and Myeongdong, two of the busiest shopping districts, which are known for their urban arts and indie music culture and entertainments. Two members were suffering from minor injuries, but insisted to complete the hip-hop dances with the team.
They entertained more than 300; many of whom reportedly asked for photos and autographs. After the street performances, the youth toured the Hongik University and had a chance to speak to Professor Chris Choi to learn more about the South Korean education system. The following day, the youth visited and participated at the One Million Dance Studio, to learn Kpop dances and
participated in the Seventeen Fan Club meet-and-greet. Many got a chance to have a close contact with their favored Kpop stars. At night the delegation enjoyed the traditional Korean barbecue. On the last day, the delegation spent time at the Namsam Park’s North Seoul Tower – a landmark of Seoul that overlooks the city, along with a memorable 1000-plus stairs around the Park that marked the
oldest Palace Stone Wall. After the Namsam Park, the group visited the Ihwa Mural Village, home to beautiful stenciled images situated along narrow city lanes and steps. Many “mural villages” were once underserved neighborhoods that are now getting makeovers in the form of vibrant murals and art installations. The delegation experienced South Korean street arts through performances and murals, they
expressed that they especially appreciated the Korean way of engaging such youthful expressions without further enforcement, and how Korean artists respect such channel without abusing the privilege by carefully selecting their images to support the public enjoyment. Following the South Korean visit the delegation headed to China where it will file additional reports.
Yolande Bruce, and Heiruspecs all performed during the event. Also in January, Melvin Carter for Saint Paul hired Emily Weber (previously of Chris Coleman for Saint Paul, Dayton for Governor, Hillary for America) as campaign manager and Chris Kluthe (previously of Angie Craig for Congress,
Our Vote Our Future, Franken for Senate, and New Blue Interactive) as finance director. In its January 2017 Campaign Finance Report, Melvin Carter for Saint Paul will report that the campaign has raised more than $130,000 to date. Carter is a lifelong St.
Paul resident and Central High School graduate. He represented Ward 1 on the St. Paul City Council from 2008 to 2013. Carter currently serves as executive director of the Minnesota Children’s Cabinet and as an advisor to Dayton. Carter holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration
from Florida A&M University and a master of public policy from the Humphrey School of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota. Carter has amassed an impressive list of endorsements including those from Rep. Keith Ellison, State Rep. Rena Moran, Ramsey Commissioner
Toni Carter, St. Paul Council President Russ Stark, St. Paul School Board President Jon Schumacher and St. Paul School Board members Mary Vanderwert, Steve Marchese and Jeannie Foster among others.
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Page 8 • January 30 - February 5, 2017 • Insight News
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Lifestyle Project Sweetie Pie plants seeds for food justice and freedom In a collaborative effort to revitalize the economy and the community of North Minneapolis, Project Sweetie Pie, an urban farming movement working to seed healthy changes in the community, has as one of its principal goals the mentorship of 500 local youth in growing food and obtaining practical sales and marketing skills. Launched in 2010 Project Sweetie Pie has aligned dozens of community partners with hundreds of urban youth to implement community garden and farm stand initiatives, which together have resulted in a framework for a more selfsufficient and self-aware urban community. “Before we went to big (agriculture) and big food and everything was so impersonal, we were really small villages and hamlets. You knew everyone in the village and you worked much like a family,” said Michael Chaney, Project Sweetie Pie founder. “If we’re really going to offset the greed of the Monsantos of the world well … if they get control of the seeds then we’ll
all be slaves. So how do we go about stemming that tide from individualism and corporate greed to really figuring out how we as a community can support the growth and development of all the children and families?” In 2010, to begin to solve for this challenge Chaney approached a fellow environmental activist and restaurant owner with a proposition – would the restaurant owner buy sweet potatoes from him if he could enlist students from the local school (North Community High School), which was under threat of closure, to grow them? The answer was yes. Chaney then approached the school to see if he could teach gardening and Project Sweetie Pie was born. Various community partners quickly joined the fray helping to plant gardens throughout the neighborhood, which would in turn be farmed by local students. In three years Project Sweetie Pie had grown from five gardens planted on empty urban lots donated by local residents and 50 community partners to 25 gardens and
Photo Karl Hakanson
Michael Chaney, founder of Project Sweetie Pie, an urban farming movement based in North Minneapolis to seed healthy changes in the community. 130
community partners. “People are always asking me what we should grow,” said Chaney. “We’re building a movement. We’re really growing the infrastructure. That’s more important.” Project Sweetie Pie is now the umbrella name that covers the many projects, programs, and initiatives being implemented by Chaney and his network of activists, volunteers, gardeners and supporters. From scattering community gardens across the
city and teaching local youth how to grow their own food and sell the surplus, Chaney is hoping to spread the underlying concepts of food freedom and self-determination. He feels that food justice issues are often overlooked or minimized in the food movement as priorities over organic labeling and irrigation methods take up so much time and attention. “At the base and theory of it is that we have become so individualized,” said Chaney.
“How can we shift that paradigm from communities, particularly low income communities that have become marginalized? How can we work with folks so they can become part of the free enterprise system, and that they are not merely there for the sake of being consumers? How do we give them the skills so they can become producers?” To help move the needle, Chaney joined other Minnesota activists in pushing forward a new urban agriculture bill. “Myself and others went to the Council on Black Minnesotans and we created the first of its kind legislation that in populations of 10,000 or more in the state of Minnesota that land be set aside for urban farming and that there be monies allocated from the Minnesota Department of (Agriculture) to do demonstration projects,” said Chaney. If funds are allocated, Project Sweetie Pie hopes to execute its latest demonstration project, a school-based greenhouse to teach students how to produce food and value added products during the winter.
Chaney’s over arching goal with Project Sweetie Pie is to keep growing the framework for food freedom in Minneapolis, to debunk myths about who should farm and who shouldn’t and to dispel assumptions regarding things such as poverty rates and the location of food desserts.| “We have to debunk myths, because poverty and hunger is always conveniently placed in racial terms instead of really looking at the facts of the matter,” said Chaney. “There are large tracts of land all over the world where people who once farmed them left farming behind and went to the big city. The skills of generations before them were pretty much shelved and people came to the conclusion that now we’ll let ‘Big Ag’ grow our food. I think it’s incumbent on all of us, regardless of where we come from, that we should know how to grow food so we can survive. If we’re not sharing that, if we’re not passing that information on, if we’re turning our nose up at it and saying that’s not for me? That’s insanity.”
The dreams from Obama’s America
By Dinesh Sharma
Barack Obama will most likely be remembered as one of the greatest political orators of our times. His soaring rhetoric that swooned the audience in 2004 in Boston during the Democratic National Convention when he recited “There’s not a Black America and white America and Latino America and Asian America; there’s the United States of America.” That same type stirring speech was on display again during his farewell address at McCormick Place near the South Side of Chicago where the young Obama cut his teeth in community organizing and politics. “It’s good to be home,” he told his followers, some of
whom had waited for hours in the freezing temperatures near Lake Michigan to get a glimpse of their political avatar. Obama’s peppered grey hair, hardened brow and wizened face showed the pain and sorrow of his nation – wary of two long wars in Afghanistan and Iraq – and still reeling from the ominous rise of ISIL and ongoing security challenges. Heart-broken at the bitter loss of his chosen successor, Hillary Clinton, his followers seemed inconsolable, chanting repeatedly, “Four more years. Four more years.” Many were teary-eyed and weeping; overcome with nostalgia. How could a president who still enjoys 60 percent approval be denied long coat-tails as a symbolic third term? How could Americans who voted for the first Black president twice be so fickle and turn on him,
Former president, Barack Obama despite the record of landmark achievements? No doubt, the president accomplished a great deal in eight years, but his victories now rest on icy shores of Lake Michigan as a “hostile takeover” of his legacy is already underway by the Trump supporters and the
GOP in an attempt to “repeal and replace” the Affordable Care Act. Obamacare, as it is known, is among the first legislation on the chopping block. Republicans have attempted to repeal it multiple times. They may finally succeed, even though the GOP has no replacement in place. The Dodd-Frank Act may also be expunged as the millionaires and billionaires fill the Trump cabinet. We have seen seven years of continuous jobgrowth and a buoyant market. Will the market remain steady or will it go through cyclical gyrations again? Obama’s multilateral foreign policy may be gutted for a more muscular approach – attempting to reclaim American power around the globe – in the Middle East, Pacific and Europe. “Make America Great Again” at home will translate to “America First” abroad. Obama’s foreign
Ellison From 3 The choice between the white working class and people of color is a false one. Hardworking Americans of all backgrounds are being left behind. In my district, which is 63 percent white, people in the African-American area of North Minneapolis want the same things for their families as those in mostly white working class suburbs. This is true across our country, not just in my hometown. We have to stand for racial justice and economic justice, because if we don’t fight for both, we’re not going to achieve either. We have to actively fight the wedges and stop conversations who want to turn Democratic coalitions against each other. It’s no secret I was a Bernie Sanders supporter. But I enthusiastically supported Sec. Hillary Clinton when she became our party’s nominee. I campaigned for Hillary in nine states, from
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policy achievements in Cuba, Iran, India and the Asia-Pacific may be reversed. Will this approach generate more antiAmericanism abroad? Obama’s attempts to heal the racial divides at home, as the first Black president, seem now to be overwhelmed by the rise of the so called Alt-Right and white ethno-nationalism. Will Americans be able to unify under the new president? Obama’s senior advisor, David Axelrod has said Trump is the antithesis of Obama. This may be true just as the election of Obama was partly a reflection of “the Bush fatigue” eight years ago. Bruce Levine, a clinical psychologist writing in Huffington Post diagnosed the problem – stripped of false realities, Americans are facing a political “psychotic break.” Levine said, “Every so often, the American societal-political veil lifts, and what was clear to George Carlin and other cynical nonvoters is difficult to deny even for voters skilled at denial.” The American dream seems to be in abeyance. Obama’s farewell address sounded the alarms on at least three big issues – growing inequality, racial division and post-truth politics. Add to this the growing sense of cybersecurity threats – potential hacking of 2016 elections by the Russians confirmed by the intelligence community – the vulnerabilities of the American system seem precarious. We
know the DNC computers and the federal personnel files have already been compromised by foreign entities. The Democrats lost more seats in the past eight years than in any previous administration in recent times. Obama’s popularity may have waxed and waned through the two terms, but his approval abroad and in the bi-coastal multicultural, multiethnic, multiracial enclaves of the new America, always remained relatively high. Barack Obama will always be America’s first Black president, with roots in Africa, Asia, and the Pacific – who could walk and chew gum at the same time – and who inspired the world to believe that the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s dream can come true that one day little Black boys and girls will be holding hands with little white boys and girls. In the long span of history, Obama’s legacy will be a shining moment at the onset of the 21st century when America rose up and lived out the true meaning of its creed, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.” We must carry forward the dreams from Obama’s America. Dinesh Sharma, associate research professor at SUNY Binghamton University is the author of “Barack Obama in Hawaii and Indonesia” and “The Global Obama.”
talking to young professionals in Charlotte, to hosting a community forum with MuslimAmericans in Dearborn, Mich. fearful of Trump’s call for an immigration ban and a Muslim registry, to rallying with college students in Orlando, who were concerned about student debt. I traveled to Nevada during the summer to meet with state party leaders and Sanders delegates for several hours. We talked through differences, and when everyone in the room was able to truly listen to each other, we emerged united. As a member of the DNC Platform Drafting Committee, I worked together with Sanders and Clinton delegates to produce the most progressive Democratic platform ever. I was a strong advocate of the final product, and urged others to support it, too. It’s a platform all Americans can be proud of, unlike the divisive Republican platform that embraces LGBTQ discrimination, mass deportation and privatizing Medicare. But there are other coalitions that are being turned on one another, as
well. Take labor protection and environmentalism – two core Democratic values. Republicans claim you can’t both have clean air and grow jobs. This too is a false choice. Unions and environmental groups recognized this 10 years ago when they formed the BlueGreen Alliance to build a clean, fair economy for all. You don’t often think “environmentalist” when you hear “steelworker.” But David Foster, their first executive director, left his post with United Steelworkers District 11 in Minnesota to take on the task of bridging the divides he often saw with environmental advocates. In fact, the two current cochairs are Leo W. Gerard, the international president of the United Steelworkers, and Michael Brune, the executive director of the Sierra Club. The Democratic Party needs to follow the lead of folks like David, Leo and Michael by showing where we can find common ground and standing up to attempts to drive us apart. Because whether you’re struggling to find work after your factory shut down in western Pennsylvania, a Dreamer going to school in Arizona, or working three jobs to make ends meet in Atlanta, know that Democrats are your champions. We are the party that fights to raise the minimum wage, guarantee high-quality education and provide affordable health care. What we need is a Democratic Party that is willing to listen to everyone and organize conversations that bring people together. Because at the end of the day, we’re a team. So when Republicans bring divisiveness, we have to bring the unity. It’s who we are. And it’s how we take our country back.
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Insight News • January 30 - February 5, 2017 • Page 9
Community Adult Academic Program’s Memory Quilt project wins two state awards The Adult Academic Program (AAP) was recently awarded two prestigious state awards for its innovative programming. The Literacy Action Network Projects of Need and Innovation Award and the MCEA Partnership Project Award were given to AAP’s Memory Quilt grant project. For the project, immigrant students from two classes at the Adult Academic Program partnered with senior residents at Covenant Village Retirement Home in Golden Valley. For this unique project, AAP teachers had student goals to learn about the U.S. elder-care system and related job opportunities, to practice English language and writing skills and to build community by establishing relationships with the seniors. To accomplish the project
goals, the two groups learned about and created individual paper art projects using photos, fabric, ribbon, buttons and other similar items. The art project was a first-time experience for a number of students. The squares memorialized important people and events in students’ lives, while seniors wrote of fond memories from their past. The stories and artwork were printed onto photo fabric that later became the colorful squares of the Memory Quilt. “As a result of participating in this project, students learned about aging in the U.S. and developed empathy and appreciation for older adults,” said Colleen Crossley, teacher at the Adult Academic Program and creator of the memory quilt project. “They connected and learned from each other as well
Photo courtesy of Adult Academic Program
Immigrant students at the Adult Academic Program partnered with senior residents at Covenant Village Retirement Home in Golden Valley to produce an award-winning Memory Quilt.
as from senior participants. Fast friendships were formed between individuals from different cultures, backgrounds, and age groups. In addition, several students became interested in pursuing elder care as a career pathway.” Annually, the Robbinsdale Adult Academic Program provides instruction to more than 1,200 students including those seeking to improve their English language skills or their reading, writing, and math skills. AAP students can also complete their high school diploma, prepare for the GED, and get ready for college. The Adult Academic Program is located in the Crystal Learning Center at 305 Willow Bend in Crystal. Additional classes are located online and at Hennepin Technical College in Brooklyn Park.
Minnesota Coalition for Battered Women host youth summit at Mall of America Nearly 1.5 million high school students experience physical abuse from a dating partner in a single year, making teen dating violence all too common. Additionally, young women between the ages of 16 and 24 experience the highest rate of intimate partner violence, making it more important than
ever to focus on educating young adults to form healthy relationships early on. On Feb. 18, the Minnesota Coalition for Battered Women will host its 2017 Youth Leadership Summit at Mall of America. Sponsored by Verizon’s HopeLine program, the summit will bring together
approximately 100 young people ages 12-18 to discuss the issue of teen dating violence awareness and prevention. Through presentations and interactive exercises, participants will learn about dating violence, gain resources to help themselves or a friend who may be experiencing abuse, and get the opportunity
to design their own campaign around teen dating violence prevention. The summit will take place at the Parkview Meeting and Events Center ( a new space in the mall). There will also be a mall-wide scavenger hunt that requires participants to think critically about media and
advertising, talk to strangers about the summit and complete all the stops on the list to win a prize. The event will begin at 9 a.m. with registration, snacks and icebreakers. The main program begins at 10 a.m. and will be wrapped up by 3:30 p.m.. The presenters have
developed a presentation on teen dating violence and will be facilitating an “In Their Shoes” activity, which is a type of “chose your own adventure” that walks through the actual experiences of dating violence by real teens.
Survey
no children were more likely to leave than those above 40 and with children. So, what’s the reason for that? “People of color don’t feel connected here,” said Sharon Smith-Akinsanya, workforce recruitment and retention strategist and founder and executive producer of the People of Color Career Fair. “They feel like they are an outsider. People want meaningful relationships, especially young people. Once people get a girlfriend or a boyfriend and have a child, then they will stick.” And thus the corporate
dilemma. While companies put a lot into creating positive and healthy work environments, they offer little to no support in creating positive and healthy social environments for people of color – particularly African-American professionals. While the Twin Cities offers wonderful social amenities such as lakes, parks, museums and theaters, those amenities – for whatever reason – do not seem welcoming to African-Americans, who make up 18 percent of the Minneapolis population, 13.5 percent in St. Paul and just 6 percent of the state’s population according to
the 2015 adjusted U.S. Census. While suburbs of Brooklyn Center and Brooklyn Park have larger Black populations, many Black professionals are widely spread in the metro with no defined Black middleclass enclaves. While many believed that weather was a primary reason that people would leave the region, only 11 percent of survey respondents said it was a concern. Instead, more than half of respondents (56 percent) said they are dissatisfied with the quality and quantity of culturally relevant events and activities and amenities.
With no central area for social interaction the next alternatives are clubs, bars and other social hangouts. “The problem there is we don’t own any of these places,” said Zachariah Oluwabankole Babington-Johnson, director of innovation for the Twin Cities Black Employee Network and director of audits, compliance and diversity for the Thor Companies. “A lot of socializing traditionally happens in the church, but many people younger than me have stopped going to church, so it’s about other social activities. The problem is when people of color go out, we’re not
allowed in certain places unless we’re dressed to the nines. We can’t just show up in jeans like everyone else.” Much of that unwelcoming culture comes from lack of access, said Smith-Akinsanya. “It has to start from the top down,” said Smith-Akinsanya. “CEOs have to change their golfing buddies. They have to change who they invite to their suites at the Vikings game. Often we’re looking past people of color. At the watercooler people talk about their cabins, yet most Black people never get invited to these cabins.”
a mass audience. The story was familiar to her because her father worked at NASA alongside the women who became known as the “human computers.” “I knew many of these women. They worked with my father and were sorority sisters of my mother,” said Lee Shetterly, who grew up in Hampton, Va. Many of the genius mathematicians who literally and figuratively launched America’s space program were graduates of historically Black,
Hampton University. Shetterly said in addition to shedding light on the Black mathematicians of NASA, “Hidden Figures” shines a light on the great job that Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) do in educating students – especially as it relates to STEM related vocations. “Hampton Institute (now Hampton University) played a critical role in this story,” said Lee Shetterly. “Black colleges have done a spectacular job
of preparing Black students in astrophysics and engineering. I think it’s important to show the role of the Black college. My dad, who worked at NASA, went to Norfolk State (a HBCU in Norfolk, Va.)” In addition to bestowing praise on HBCUs, Lee Shetterly said were it not for the Black Press this critical story may not have been told. “This book would not have been possible if not for Black newspapers,” said Lee Shetterly,
who specifically named periodicals Norfolk Journal and Guide and the Pittsburg Courier. “These Black newspapers, for me, are just as much a character in the book and movie as the women. This is an ode to Black newspapers as well.” While “Hidden Figures” is Lee Shetterly’s first book, she said it is the first of a trilogy that delves into the daily work lives of African-Americans in the mid-1900s. “I think that’s a part of the
American narrative that hasn’t been told,” said Lee Shetterly. Lee Shetterly will be in the Twin Cities speaking at the University of Minnesota courtesy of the Humphrey School of Public Affairs Distinguished Carlson Lecture Series on Feb. 21. The 6 p.m. lecture at Northrop – like many showing of “Hidden Figures” – is sold out.
From 3 Burroughs, chief inclusion officer for the state of Minnesota. “The important piece is how do we use the data now to address the problem.” The data in the survey found that while it’s challenging retaining people of every ethnicity, the problem is most pervasive among AfricanAmerican professionals. According to the survey that was released shortly after the New Year, people under 40 with
Shetterly From 3 history with high drama and with protagonists we haven’t heard from; African-American women,” said Lee Shetterly. Lee Shetterly began her research for the book and subsequent movie back in 2010, saying she wanted to tell the story that was familiar to her to
Classifieds STATE OF WISCONSIN
CIRCUIT COURT
PROGRESSIVE UNIVERSAL INSURANCE COMPANY AS SUBROGEE OF DAWN R JOHNSON
Phone: 612.588.1313
Our File #T860635 PIERCE COUNTY
LILL’S ANGELS Support Group
Case No. 16SC000382
African American culturally specific
Plaintiff,
MEMORY LOSS
vs. KASSANDRA J FLAKE
Support Group
AIMEE A PACE SHAWNA K ALLEGRO Defendants. SMALL CLAIMS AMENDED SUMMONS
Northeast Minneapolis
TO:
Monroe Village
KASSANDRA J FLAKE 4142 31ST AVE S PO BOX 7142 MINNEAPOLIS MN 55407-0142
1900 Central Ave. NE, Minneapolis Meets the 2nd Wednesday of each month from 5 to 7:30 p.m. South Minneapolis
You are being sued by: PROGRESSIVE UNIVERSAL INSURANCE COMPANY AS SUBROGEE OF DAWN R JOHNSON in the Small Claims Court of PIERCE County, located at PO BOX 129 - 414 W MAIN ST ELLSWORTH WI 54011. A hearing will be held at 9:00 a.m. on February 15, 2017. If you do not appear, a judgment may be given to the party suing you. A copy of this amended summons along with the summons and complaint is being mailed to you. Dated at Milwaukee, Wisconsin this Jan 25 2017. KOHN LAW FIRM S.C. BY:
/s/ JOSEPH R. JOHNSON JOSEPH R. JOHNSON Plaintiff's Attorney State Bar No. 1053052 735 N. Water St., Suite 1300 Milwaukee, WI 53202 (414) 276-0435
Lunds & Byerly’s Grocery 1450 West Lake St., Minneapolis Upstairs meeting room Meets the 2nd Friday of each month from 1 to 2:30 p.m. NEW LOCATION - Brooklyn Center
Jehovah Jireh Church 6120 Xerxes Ave. N., Brooklyn Center First meeting is Feb. 8 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Meets the 2nd Wednesday of each month To RSVP, or for questions, please call Dorothea Harris at 952-945-4175
Fax: 612.588.2031
Email: info@insightnews.com
Oak Terrace 1171 Hadley Avenue North Oakdale, MN 55128 (651) 730-6440
LEGAL SECRETARY Central Minnesota Legal Services
NOTICE: OPENING THE 1 BEDROOM WAIT LIST
Wide range of administrative duties in a 17-person office (Mpls). Legal word processing work; e-filing. Legal areas include family law, housing. Exc. Oral & written communication skills req. WORD+. Second language+. Sal: D.O.E. Excellent benefits. Specifying interest & skills to: Ginger Palmquist, CMLS, 430 1st Ave N, #359, Mpls, MN 55401-1780 or cmls@centralmnlegal. org Resume, refs, & cover letter by 2/13/17 (late appls accepted until filled) EOE No calls.
CommonBond Communities Equal Housing Opportunity
Volunteer Customer Service Assistants
Westonka Estates 2461 Commerce Boulevard Mound, MN 55364 952-472-4952
Hennepin County is seeking volunteer greeters for its North Minneapolis human service center at 1001 Plymouth Avenue North to welcome and guide visitors, answer questions and assist with special projects. Reliable adults who enjoy working with people and who are available for a few hours twice a week are encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates will be able to volunteer for a minimum of three months. Volunteers are integral to Hennepin County’s mission of enhancing the health, safety and quality of life of its residents and communities in a respectful, efficient and fiscally responsible way. Get involved by visiting http://www.hennepin. us/humanservicevolunteer and submitting a volunteer application.
Applications may be downloaded at www. commonbond.org from 9am January 15, 2017 until 12pm February 28, 2017. Completed applications must be received by mail or hand delivered, on or before February 28, 2017. All qualified Applicants will be placed on the Waiting List in the order they are received.
NOTICE: OPENING THE 1 BEDROOM WAIT LIST
Project-Based Section 8/202; rent based on income for qualified applicants. Applications may be downloaded at www.commonbond.org from 9am January 1, 2017 until 12pm January 31, 2017. Completed applications must be received by mail or hand delivered, on or before January 31, 2017. All qualified Applicants will be placed on the Waiting List in the order they are received. CommonBond Communities Equal Housing Opportunity
South Shore Park 255 Mill Street Excelsior, MN 55331 (952) 474-9036
NOTICE: OPENING THE 1 BEDROOM WAIT LIST
Project-Based Section 8/202; rent based on income for qualified applicants. Applications may be downloaded at www.commonbond.org from 9am January 1, 2017 until 12pm January 31, 2017. Completed applications must be received by mail or hand delivered, on or before January 31, 2017. All qualified Applicants will be placed on the Waiting List in the order they are received. CommonBond Communities Equal Housing Opportunity
Volunteers Make a difference in the life of a child. The Mothers First program provides prevention and intervention services for pregnant women who are abusing chemicals. Mothers First is seeking a Child Care Assistant volunteer to help agency staff in providing supervision and care for the children with our Mothers First program while mom is attending counseling sessions. Volunteer Drivers are also needed to provide transportation to mothers in recovery to/from groups with our Mothers First program. Reimbursement for mileage is provided. Contact Ramsey County Health & Wellness Service Team — Volunteer Services at 651-266-4090 for additional information or e-mail to HumanServicesVolunteer@co.ramsey.mn.us.
Page 10 • January 30 - February 5, 2017 • Insight News
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Ladysmith-Black-Mambazo
Jan. 30 – Feb. 5
Monday, Jan. 30 SOUL/HIP-HOP PERFORMANCE I Sing on the Cake Honey 205 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis 8:30 p.m. 21-plus $5
Jan. 30 Feb. 5, 2017
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
205 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis 9 p.m. 21-plus $5 This production showcase focuses on hardware (as opposed to software instruments). With Heckadecimal, Ghostband and Akwius.
Wednesday, Feb 1
Gabriella Jacobs hosts this night of soul and hip-hop with Cale Wulf and Commanda Charles, Lizzie Fontaine, Freq Moody, Likeminds, Sieed Brown, Blanda, Kia Rathke and Anna Bomb.
HIP-HOP/ PERFORMANCE
Tuesday, Jan. 31
Check out this upbeat celebration of the life of Malcolm X with performances by Truth Maze, Mitch Haze, Lvndscvpes, Dark Matter and Axel Foley, Ashley Mari
PRODUCTION/ PERFORMANCE Strictly Hardware Honey
“Fences,” (Fences | Trailer & Movie Site | December 25, 2016 )
Malcolm fle[x] Nomad World Pub 501 Cedar Ave. S., Minneapolis 8:30 p.m. 21-plus $5
(FreeQueenSee), MycDazzle, Nyasia, RÅDĮØ ÅHŁËË, Khem Clan and Remy Skye. The event is hosted by Sol Rebel Ras and DJ Cassie M.
NIGHT Reggae Danchall First Friday Dancing Ganesha 1100 Harmon Pl., Minneapolis 10 p.m. 21-plus
Thursday, Feb. 2 HIP-HOP/ PERFORMANCE Love Daze: The Rich Garvey Miniseries Nomad World Pub 501 Cedar Ave. S., Minneapolis 9 p.m. 21-plus $7 Rich Garvey continues his weekly miniseries at the Nomad with Adrian Fields, D’Allen White (Music), Sieed Brown, Devata Daun and Unknown Creatures.
Friday, Feb. 3 REGGAE/ DANCEHALL/DANCE
“Hidden Figures,” (Hidden Figures (2016) - Official Movie Site | 20th Century Fox)
Sound of Fujun brings you the best in dancehall and soca music.
Saturday, Feb. 4 WORLD/ PERFORMANCE Ladysmith Black Mambazo State Theater 805 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis 8 p.m. $30-$50 Four time Grammy Award winners, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, have performed with grace and eloquence since the early 1960s. Hailing
from South Africa, the group is one of the country’s most known and respected acts. Sunday, Feb. 5 FOOTBALL WATCH PARTY/DANCE NIGHT Super Bowl LI at Darby’s feat. DJ A-Quil Darby’s Pub and Grill 315 5th Ave. N., Minneapolis 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. 21-plus No cover Whether you are in it for the game or just want to come out to have a fun time, there’s a reason to party on Super Bowl Sunday. Head down to Darby’s for the most exciting Super Bowl party in town. DJ A-Quil spins throughout the day and the game plays on multiple televisions. There will also be door prizes and other giveaways.
“Moonlight,” (Moonlight – Official Movie Site)
2017 Oscars will be ‘Not So White’ this time around By Kam Williams
Following two years of no Black actors or directors even being nominated for
an Academy Award, this time around the Academy embraced diversity, nominating seven actors of color. Denzel Washington and Viola Davis received nominations
for “Fence,” along with Mahershala Ali and Naomie Harris for “Moonlight,” Octavia Spencer for “Hidden Figures,” Ruth Negga for “Loving” and Dev Patel for
“Lion.” “Moonlight,” the Golden Globewinning Best Drama, landed eight Oscar nominations in all, including Barry Jenkins’ for Best Director and Best
Adapted Screenplay. Director Ava DuVernay, overlooked by Oscar for “Selma” a year ago, was recognized this time around in the Best Documentary category
for “13th.” The Academy Awards airs live, Feb. 26 at 7:30 p.m. on ABC. The show will be hosted by Jimmy Kimmel.
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Insight News • January 30 - February 5, 2017 • Page 11
Georgia Ellyse lands fulltime anchor position at KBJR 6 in Duluth Former KMOJ personality Georgia Ellyse is now on-air anchor for KBJR (NBC affiliate) in Duluth. Ellyse, who was working at WTVM in Columbus, Ga., will co-anchor the morning newscast, “KBJR 6 News Today,” alongside Michael Raimondi and meteorologist Adam Lorch. She will solo anchor at noon, and will host a special report, “Making a Difference” at 10 p.m. on Tuesdays. In Minneapolis Ellyse, dubbed Ms. Georgia, hosted a popular midday show on 89.9 FM KMOJ. Ellyse left KMOJ to become the morning show co-host on Columbus’ top radio station, Foxie 105 FM. While in working full-time at Foxie 105, Ellyse worked part-
Georgia Ellyse
time for CCG-TV, hosting her own television show called “Breaking the Cycle.” From there, she shifted into news as a reporter for ABC affiliate WTVM. “I am excited to be in Minnesota,” said Ellyse. “This is an amazing opportunity to expand my career in news. Starting from community radio and now a fulltime anchor at an NBC affiliate; I am humbled.” In a Facebook post, Ellyse, a Minneapolis native, gushed about her new surroundings. “It is an honor to be a part of the Northland (Duluth) community,” said Ellyse. “Just to wake up every day along Lake Superior is breathtaking.”
Stellar Gospel Music Awards nominees announced Tamela Mann and Travis Greene lead with nine nominations CHICAGO (PRNewswire) – Central City Productions announced the nominees in 26 categories for the 2017 Stellar Awards. Hailed as an “epic night in gospel music,” this year’s Stellar Awards will return to the Las Vegas Orleans Arena on March 25. The telecast will premiere on TV One April 9 at 6 p.m. with encores at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. Praise and worship breakthrough artist Travis Greene, and chart-topping soloist, Tamela Mann lead the nominations with nine each. Greene is having an amazing year, in the running for both Male Vocalist of the Year and Song of the Year, for his work on “The Hill.” This inspirational psalmist is also nominated for CD of the Year, Contemporary Male Vocalist of the Year, Contemporary CD of the Year, and Praise and Worship CD of the Year. Gospel superstar Mann joins Greene on the Stellar Awards nominee leader board, nominated this year for Artist
wikipedia.com
travisgreene.tv
Tamela Mann of the Year, Albertina Walker Female Vocalist of the Year and Contemporary Female Vocalist of the Year, and she is also competing for CD of the Year, Producer of the Year, Song of the Year, and Traditional Female Vocalist of the Year. With seven and six nominations respectively,
Travis Greene
veterans Hezekiah Walker and Kirk Franklin demonstrate their staying power in gospel music, recognized for Male Vocalist of the Year, Choir of the Year, Contemporary Choir of the Year and Contemporary Male of the Year for their projects “Azusa The Next Generation 2: Better” and
“Losing My Religion.” Franklin also receives a nod for Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, CD of the Year, Producer of the Year and Contemporary CD of the Year. Jekalyn Carr, nominated for Artist of the Year, and Todd Dulaney are in contention for Male Vocalist of the Year, CD
of the Year and Contemporary CD of the Year. Other artists earning multiple nominations include newcomers, Bri (Brianna Babineaux), Livre’, Enon Tabernacle and living legend Shirley Caesar. Multiple Stellar Awards and Grammy Award-winning solo artist, nationally-
syndicated radio host and television personality Erica Campbell joins multiple Stellar Award winner, songwriter and arranger Anthony Brown to co-host the 32nd Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards. “Our 2017 nominees represent the strongest group of Gospel artists and songs in our 32-year history of the Stellar Awards,” said Don Jackson, founder of the Stellar Awards and chairman of Central City Productions “This year’s large number of artists who are first-time nominees is a positive testament to the new and upcoming artists in gospel music, as well as, a reflection of the tremendous growth of the gospel music genre.” The announcement of the 2017 nominees corresponds with the launch of www. stellartv.com, the first phase of the Stellar TV Cable Television Network, which will be officially introduced during the taping at the 32nd Annual Stellar Awards.
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Page 12 • January 30 - February 5, 2017 • Insight News
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G Sharp and the Bizness funk up Sunday nights at Lee’s Liquor Lounge
Photos by Harry Colbert, Jr.
G Sparp (left) and Chazz singing a Prince medley.
Those heading over to Bunker’s on Sunday nights looking to hear the smooth vocals of G Sharp might be in for a bit of a shock to no longer see him on stage with Dr. Mambo’s Combo. Sharp parted ways with the mainstay group and he, along with former Combo member “Downtown” Billy Brown, are now at Lee’s Liquor Lounge every Sunday as a part of G Sharp and the Bizness. The Time’s
Jellybean Johnson, who regularly sat in with the Combo also sits in with Sharp. One of the area’s premier vocalist, Sharp had added a number of songs to his repertoire, including several Prince classics. Joining Sharp and Brown are singer Chazz, singer and keyboard player, Cass (who does a mean Vanity Six), Deevo (Sounds of Blackness) on guitar and more, including
procession and horns sections. Popular vocalist Kathleen Johnson is also over at Lee’s, but on Sundays she let her food do the singing, catering from her food truck, Wholesoul, a Lavender and Sage Eatery. The wings alone are worth the trip. G Sharp and the Bizness take the stage at 8:30 p.m. weekly.
“Downtown” Billy Brown (left) and Deevo bringing the funk.
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Simone Clay (left) and Angie Sheppard celebrating 10 years of togetherness.
The living legend, Jellybean Johnson.