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Aesthetically It! Upcoming venues, events, and outings in the Twin Cities
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Insight News April 4 - April 10, 2016
Vol. 43 No. 14 • The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com
I’m not just a reporter; I’m a Black man in mourning over another police killing of a Black person Commentary by Harry Colbert, Jr. Contributing Writer
No charges filed Courtesy of Kenya McKnight
By Harry Colbert, Jr. Contributing Writer The police officers responsible for the death of an unarmed man will not face criminal charges in Hennepin County. That is because Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman said Minneapolis Police Officers Dustin Schwarze and Mark Ringgenberg acted in self-defense in shooting 24-year-old Jamar Clark in the head this past November – a claim supporters of Clark continue to contest. Freeman’s March 30 announcement was immediately challenged by Clark supporters who accused Freeman of being
Harry Colbert, Jr.
part of a police cover-up. According to Freeman, Clark’s death was a direct result of his own actions. He said Clark tried to take Ringgenberg’s gun and the officer “feared for his life.” In an ambulance videotape Clark can be seen standing facing away from the officers when Ringgenberg forcibly grabs Clark from behind, places him in a chokehold and slams him to the ground. The struggle continues beyond the view of the ambulance camera, but according to Freeman, Clark was wrestling away Ringgenberg’s gun when Ringgenberg called for his partner Schwarze to “shoot him,”
Top-left: Jamar Clark. Top-right: Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman shows a group of reporters video footage from an ambulance at the scene of the killing of Jamar Clark. Footage captured Clark being yanked to the ground by an officer, but did not show the fatal shooting or the struggle that led up to it.
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Left: Nekima Levy-Pounds (far right) questions Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman’s account of the events in the Nov. 15 killing of Jamar Clark by Minneapolis police officers as Mica Grimm (left) of Black Lives Matter and Raeisha Williams (middle) look on.
Harry Colbert, Jr.
As a journalist you’re taught to be the “fly on the wall” – just sit there and observe. When covering a story you’re not supposed to interject. Report the story, don’t become the story. Ask objective questions. Don’t form an opinion. In reality, it’s more like hide your opinions as best you can. In the police killing of Jamar Clark – shot point blank in the head – I was able to do that … for the most part. During the March 30 press conference at the Hennepin County Government Center to announce whether or not charges would be filed against both or either Minneapolis Police Officers Dustin Schwarze or Mark Ringgenberg, I was able to suspend reality – as Hennepin County Atty. Mike Freeman wanted us to do –
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Immigrants: The fraternal faces of the Twin Cities Opinion
By Chief Folarin Ero-Phillips, Associate Editor, West Africa Courtesy of KEG
Keith Baker
Keith Baker named VP Kaskaskia Engineering Keith Baker has been named vice president of Minnesota Operations for Belleville, Ill. based Kaskaskia Engineering Group, LLC (KEG), a 100-percent woman-owned and managed civil engineering and construction contracting firm.
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“Bang Bang: 4th Precinct Shutdown” FAIR High School original one act play entitled “Bang Bang: 4th Precinct Shutdown” performed by FAIR High School Youth at the Avant Garde “Expressions of Black Progression,” a Celebration of Black History Month production presented by FAIR School and Hennepin Theatre Trust. The one-act play was a reaction to the Jamar Clark protests in North Minneapolis. Cast (in order of appearance): Xiomara Guzman –Penelope; Shaunassey Johnson
– Valerie; Belushey Previl – Maggie (girl facing the camera pictured); Camryn Junkers – Ophelia; Ananda Cordova Stuart – Sara; Jonathan Strom – Joseph; Samuele Margiotta – Peter; Mackenzie Wittkopf – Danielle; and Meara Molitor – Isabelle. Crew: Destiny Lanning and Lucille Yoemans. Director: Andre Samples, Education Associate with Stages Theatre Company. Photo: February 23 at the State Theatre by Rebecca Rabb.
Part 1 of a series Welcome to Minneapolis/Saint Paul airport with International aviation code MSP. The largest metropolis in the State of Minnesota known as Land of 10,000 Lakes. Currently, immigrants account for large and growing shares of the economy and population. To evaluate and discuss urban gentrification in Minnesota in the past forty years will be incomplete without mentioning sources of the critical demographic changes that are taking place, and subsequently changing faces of the people and multiple social activities. Yes, while immigrants from Latin America and many Eurocentric nations have been settling in Minnesota for ages, the diversity and distance of current groups are very different.
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George Curry
Commentary
Health
Lifestyle
After attacks on Brussels, more personal attacks on Obama
The moment we have been waiting for
NMA launches campaign to address African-American deaths
Meditate through the madness
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After attacks on Brussels, more personal attacks on Obama George Curry Media By George E. Curry Columnist Not even President Obama would argue it was the best of timing. While he was on the first leg of a two-stop trip to mend a 50-year non-relationship with Cuba and a 20-isolation from Argentina, terrorists attacked Brussels. Instead of rushing home, which would serve as propaganda for terrorists, Obama continued his scheduled journey. But instead of being applauded for his resolve, the president was attacked for everything from attending a baseball ball game in Cuba to dancing the tango at State Dinner in Argentina. Andrew Napolitano said on Fox News Channel’s Fox & Friends, “At a time when we have a crisis, is that the impression that he wants to convey? He’s
a great dancer and maybe he didn’t want to change his plans. But I’m not so sure he should be doing that when everybody else is worried about where ISIS is, who they’re going to kill next, and are they going to come over here. Perhaps he should be giving a different impression of strength and preservation of freedom and safety.” Aside from the reality of President Obama having access to the same tools he would have had if he had returned to Washington, he is being held to a different standard. Bernard Goldberg, a former CBS broadcaster, acknowledged, “...too often conservatives on radio and television wouldn’t give Barack Obama credit if he found a cure for cancer. Look, we need honest analysis, and too often what we’re getting is not honest opinion journalism.” That’s the understatement of the year. As was pointed out by this website, “A particularly intolerable meme continues to play out in the news media and online: apparently U.S. history began on January 20, 2009 when Barack Obama was inaugurated.
In case you were unaware, President Obama is evidently the first president to take vacations; he’s the first president to play golf; he’s the first president to be photographed without a suit or tie; and he’s the first president to routinely use a teleprompter. If you believe any of that, then you’re a moron who needs to refresh your memory about all things pre-2009. There you’ll find that not only are Obama’s vacations and so forth in line with most previous presidents, but in terms of overall time off, he’s taken the fewest vacation days of any modern president other than Bill Clinton. “The latest round of outrage directed at the president has to do with his so-called ‘bad optics’ - allegedly inappropriate non-presidential behavior. In this latest case, Obama’s crazy decision to remain in Cuba for his historic reopening of U.S./Cuban relations following the dual terrorist attacks in Brussels on Tuesday. A cursory check of AM talk radio, Fox News Channel and conservative Twitter reveals the usual double-standard and historical amnesia we’ve seen over and over again.”
To refresh their memories: • EVENT, October 10, 1981 -- The funeral of assassinated Egyptian President Anwar Sadat. REAGAN OPTICS, October 10, 1981 -- Reagan went horseback riding at Camp David. • EVENT, August 29, 1983 -Two Marines were killed and 14 wounded in Beirut. REAGAN OPTICS, August 29, 1983 -- Reagan remained on vacation at Rancho Del Cielo, California. • EVENT, September 1, 1983 -- Reagan was still on vacation in California when the Soviets shot down Korean Airlines Flight 007. REAGAN OPTICS, September 1, 1983 -According to Fox News Channel’s Chris Wallace, as well as contemporaneous accounts, Reagan planned to remain on vacation until he was photographed horseback riding and was convinced to return to the White House. • EVENT, October 22, 1983 -- The administration began planning its military incursion
into Grenada. REAGAN OPTICS, October 22, 1983 -- Reagan remained on vacation at the Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia. Repeat: golf resort. • EVENT, July 18, 1984 -- 21 people were killed and 19 wounded when a gunman entered a San Ysidro, California McDonald’s and opened fire. REAGAN OPTICS, July 21, 1984 -- On the day when many of the gun massacre victims were to be buried, Reagan went horseback riding at Camp David. • EVENT, April 2, 1986 -Four Americans were killed in a terrorist attack at a TWA counter at the Athens Airport, Greece. REAGAN OPTICS, April 4, 1986 -- Two days later, here’s Reagan’s uber-presidential optics, while on vacation (!!) at Rancho Del Cielo. • EVENT, September 5, 1986 -- The Pakistani military stormed the hijacked Pan Am Flight 73. 22 people were killed, including two Americans, and 150 were injured.
REAGAN OPTICS, September 6, 1986 -- Again, while on vacation at his California ranch, Reagan went horseback riding with the First Lady and was photographed with a “Just Say No” sign. On top of that, conservatives had the temerity to criticize First Lady Michelle Oabma’s decision to showcase her well-sculptured shoulders early in the Obama presidency. Yet Donald Trump’s wife can expose more intimate body parts on the cover of magazines and expect to receive a pass. George E. Curry is President and CEO of George Curry Media, LLC. He is the former editor-inchief of Emerge magazine and the National Newspaper Publishers Association News Service (NNPA). He is a keynote speaker, moderator, and media coach. Curry can be reached through his Web site, georgecurry.com. You can also follow him at twitter.com/ currygeorge, George E. Curry Fan Page on Facebook, and Periscope. See previous columns at http://www.georgecurry.com/ columns.
Criminal justice reform snagged in campaign politics By Dee Hunter, Urban News Service Planned reforms to federal drug and sentencing laws that imprisoned many AfricanAmericans have become locked up by election-year politics. “The cost of incarceration and a growing awareness of the problems with mandatory minimum sentences have created a diverse coalition calling for reforms,” said Kevin Ring, of Families Against Mandatory Minimums. Reform supporters span civil rights advocates, law enforcement organizations, numerous federal judges, conservative groups and even Republican stalwarts, the Koch Brothers. Eighty percent of American voters support ending
mandatory minimum sentences for drug offenses, according to a February Pew Charitable Trusts poll. President Obama has made this issue a priority. He issued an executive order in January to prohibit solitary confinement of juveniles. He discussed criminal justice reform in his latest State of the Union address, and pardoned 95 federal inmates at Christmas. He also became the first president to visit a federal prison. Several relevant bills enjoy broad bipartisan support in Congress. The Senate Judiciary Committee approved the Sentencing Reform and Corrections Act of 2015 by a 15-5 vote last October. Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) introduced this legislation, which enjoys 28 Senate co-sponsors. “Our
Senator Cory Booker (D-New Jersey) sentencing bill is a compromise that shows that senators from both sides of the aisle can come together to address a serious problem in a reasonable and responsible way,” Grassley said. Traditional crime fighters and criminal-justice reformers debate whether drug offenders are violent. Thirty-five percent of drug offenders in federal prison had
Joe Ruffin
minimal criminal histories and no previous imprisonment, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics. However, BJS also reports that 25 percent of drug offenders also used weapons in their most recent offenses. Senator Ted Cruz (R – Texas) voted against the bill. As amended, it provides “leniency for violent criminals who use guns and gives lighter sentences to criminals already serving time,” he said before the Judiciary Committee. “That claim is false and does not factually line up with the reality of who is behind bars in our federal prisons,” said Senator Cory Booker (D-New Jersey) in response to critics who say the bill would free violent criminals. “Each case must also go before a federal judge, with the prosecutor present for an independent judicial review.” Grassley’s measure addresses
several stringent sentencing provisions that have helped swell the federal prison population over the past 30 years. It would repeal the “three strikes” law that requires a mandatory life sentence without parole for anyone with a third conviction on drug or violent-felony charges. Instead, the bill creates a mandatory 25year sentence. This legislation retroactively applies a 2010 sentencingreform provision that reduced the disparity between crack and powder cocaine penalties. This change alone would let about 6,500 prisoners petition the courts for release or reduced sentences. Grassley’s bill also includes juvenile-justice reforms and language to help former prisoners transition back into society. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky), facing pressure from tough-on-crime Republicans, has not said whether he will allow a vote on Grassley’s proposal. “Our system of justice is not broken,” former U.S. attorney general John Ashcroft wrote last month in a letter to McConnell, signed by 40 highranking former law-enforcement officials. “Mandatory minimums have caused a dramatic reduction in crime.” Reform advocates do not consider Grassley’s legislation the major overhaul of mandatory-
minimum sentences for which they long have fought, saying his bill does not go far enough. “It’s a Goldilocks reform bill. It’s not too much. It’s not too little. But it’s better than nothing,” said Nkechi Taifa of the Open Society Policy Center. “There was a time when this looked like a slam dunk…It was the right issue at the right time. Now it is not so clear.” This bill only applies to the federal justice system, where about 200,000 inmates are held. This is just 8 percent of the 2.5 million Americans confined to state prisons and local jails. While the Senate’s path remains clouded, the measure has a brighter future in the House. Legislators and reform advocates consider Speaker Paul Ryan (RWisconsin) an ally in overhauling sentencing and drug laws. Ryan said he supports all the measures that have cleared the House Judiciary Committee. “We will schedule floor time for them,” Ryan told journalists at a recent Capitol press briefing. Until then, reformers sound as impatient as ever. “All there has been is talk, and more talk,” said civil rights leader Barbara Arwine. “Action is long overdue. Mass incarceration threatens many of the gains we fought for in the Civil Rights Movement. It’s time for a vote.”
Student journalists get jobs, Black newspapers get reporters By Howard University News Service WASHINGTON – The nation’s black newspapers will get a new infusion of talent from Howard University and young journalists will get hands-on training from seasoned professionals this summer under a program by the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) and Chevrolet. The program, entitled “Discover the Unexpected,” was announced last week and will provide eight students from Howard’s journalism program to work at the Atlanta Voice, the Chicago Defender, the Washington Informer and the Michigan Chronicle in Detroit. The students will be paid for the summer and also receive a scholarship. In addition to the students, the newspapers will also receive temporary use of a new Chevrolet Malibu so the young journalists can get to their assignments. Hip Hop pioneer MC Lyte is helping Chevrolet and NNPA get the word out. NNPA officials said the program could be expanded to other historically black colleges and universities if it proves successful in its first year. Gracie Lawson-Borders, dean of the Howard University School of Communications, welcomed the opportunity for her students. “This will give them an experience of going out into communities and covering stories and gathering content through print, social media and through photos and video,” LawsonBorders said. “It’s a chance for them to grow and hone their craft, but also hear their stories and give
HU News Service
these stories context.” She also applauded Chevrolet for its support. “This is really a commitment of supporting the community on behalf of General Motors and Chevrolet,” she said. Paul Edwards, U.S. vice president, for Chevrolet Marketing, said the students from the program “will highlight and celebrate positive stories of men and women making a tremendous impact in their communities.” “Chevrolet is fully committed to this important initiative,” Edwards said. “We believe our . . . fellows are leaders in the next generation of African American journalists and storytellers, and we are proud to support them in their mission to create meaningful narratives that foster a collective sense of pride.” Benjamin Chavis, NNPA’s president and CEO, said his organization is looking forward to the infusion of young talent and new ideas. “These students get a lot of their news from social media 24 hours a day,” Chavis said. “Videos are posted as events are happening
and they go viral, with most of them focusing on the violent aspects of what’s happening in their neighborhoods and to their generation. “Our fellows are going to discover and report those unexpected stories, the ones that say their generation is making a difference, the ones that say we’re greater than what you see on the nightly news or read in the papers.” The students are selected by a panel of NNPA publishers and editors and Howard University faculty. MC Lyte has signed on as the program’s national spokeswoman. “Young people have always been on the forefront of reporting what’s happening in the African American community,” MC Lyte said during the announcement. “I’m excited to be involved with emerging young writers who have the power to shape our voices the same way hip hop emcees broke ground telling our stories.” - Taj Brayboy, Howard University News Service, contributed to this story
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BUSINESS Knutson Alliance Program (KAP) a unique business solution Knutson Construction recently launched a new program to support contracting opportunities and development of minority subcontractors. The firm’s Knutson Alliance Program (KAP), was created and will be managed by Ramona Wilson, Knutson Construction Director of Diversity. Wilson said minority subcontractors often are not able to get the work from general contractors because they may not be the lowest bidder, or because general contractor project managers have difficulty finding subcontractors in the various
scopes of works. “The KAP initiative will address both concerns,” Wilson said. “The subcontractors will learn to put their bid packages together through a 10-week construction training session. Knutson project managers will now have access to subcontractors that represent various scopes of work from mechanical to construction final cleaning.” “We have formed partnerships with Minneapolis Urban League, ProBid LLC and MEDA to assist with the implementation of KAP. ProBid LLC will provide the 10-week bid training for small business
Subcontractors attending KAP training session held at Knutson Office.
owners who participate in the program. MEDA (Metropolitan Economic Development Association) will provide working capital and technical assistance. The Minneapolis Urban League (MUL) will provide a pipeline to workers who are seeking to enter the construction trades by enrolling in and completing Urban League construction trades skill training,” Wilson said. Support for the subcontractors doesn’t stop after the 10 weeks of bid packaging training, Wilson
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Wearing many hats is not bad FUNdraising Good Times
By Mel and Pearl Shaw “We wear a lot of hats around here.” This is a common refrain at many small and mediumsized nonprofits. It’s even true amongst larger nonprofits that are under-resourced. Sometimes it’s said with pride. Other times it is followed by a sigh that signals fatigue. We understand both sentiments. If you are one who “wears many hats” we salute your ability to multitask, pursue multiple priorities, and keep your eye on the big picture and the details
simultaneously. We recognize your agility and flexibility. You do what must be done, often without recognition. We also recognize that sometimes you struggle with too many responsibilities. “Many hats” can become “too many hats.” Things fall through the cracks, you feel overworked, you want to be successful in all your endeavors and yet you begin to feel resentful. It gets worse when people criticize. Here’s what we know: it is rare for a nonprofit professional to specialize or to work only in her area of responsibility. If you read the fine print, most job descriptions include the phrase “and other responsibilities as assigned.” Small and medium sized nonprofits often lack the resources to support specialized staff. For example, many have a development/marketing
Tax Day is coming, consider filing your taxes for free The time to file taxes is quickly approaching. Tax Day is Monday, April 18 this year and Minnesota’s Claim it! campaign wants taxpayers who have not filed their taxes yet to know about the free tax preparation options they may have this filing season. “Free tax preparation can save low- and moderateincome households hundreds of dollars in fees,” said Tracy Fischman, Prepare Plus Prosper executive director. “Filing for free is a highquality option to help people claim tax credits they earned like the Earned Income Tax Credit and Minnesota Working Family Credit.” Throughout Minnesota, there are free tax preparation sites where IRS-certified
volunteers help taxpayers file federal, state and property taxes at no cost. Taxpayers who are age 60 or order, disabled, speak limited or no English, or have an annual income that is $54,000 or less generally qualify for in-person free tax assistance. Taxpayers who want to file their taxes online and made $62,000 or less can use MyFreeTaxes. MyFreeTaxes provides free federal and state taxes in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The software is sponsored by the United Way and has free telephone, email and online chat support from IRS-certified specialists. For those not required to file before April 18 or who
All members of your staff should have some skills that can enhance your development and fundraising activities, beyond their primary responsibilities. manager. That’s one person responsible for two priority areas. One person managing special events, creating and sending out direct mail, managing social media, writing grants, hosting small friendraisers, meeting oneon-one with donors, supporting
board members, managing the data based, producing reports, sending out thank you letters... You get the idea. Dealing with this reality requires many hats, and many hands. Here are a few suggestions for building a
healthy fundraising team. First, cross training is a must. Your organization cannot rely on any one person to fulfill all fundraising related activities. All members of your staff should have some skills that can enhance your development and fundraising activities, beyond their primary responsibilities. In some cases you will have to rely on people from the outside to supplement the skill sets that you need. Before asking for help, know your needs. Your fundraising plan should reveal the types of people and skills you need, whether from staff or volunteers. Second, remember that wearing many hats is not a bad thing, especially during times of staff transition in the area of fundraising. If your team has been contributing to the development and fundraising work of the organization, there
may be someone who can fill in while you search for your new development person. Third, as a CEO or board member you should constantly seek out professional development opportunities for your staff and volunteers. These can include workshops and conferences, webinars, coaching, books, periodicals and blogs. Related to this, you, and members of the board (especially the chair of the development committee), should have a general knowledge of fund development in order to effectively manage the fundraising function. Copyright 2016– Mel and Pearl Shaw For help growing your fundraising visit www. saadandshaw.com or call (901) 522-8727.
You don’t have to move to get that new-home feeling.
TAXES TURN TO 6
Consider a U.S. Bank Home Equity Line of Credit for your next project. With competitive rates and flexible payment options, lasting home improvements could be within reach. Introductory rates start as low as 1.99% APR. Call 800.209.BANK (2265), visit a local branch, or go to usbank.com/dreambig.
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*1.99% Introductory Annual Percentage Rate (APR) is available on Home Equity Lines of Credit with an 80% loan-to-value (LTV) or less. The Introductory Interest Rate will be fixed at 1.99% during the five-month Introductory Period. A higher introductory rate will apply for an LTV above 80%. Offer is available for new applications submitted from February 20 – April 29, 2016. After the five-month introductory period: the APR is variable and is based upon an index plus a margin. The APR will vary with Prime Rate (the index) as published in the Wall Street Journal. As of February 9, 2016, the variable rate for Home Equity Lines of Credit ranged from 3.24% APR to 8.50% APR. Higher rates may apply due to an increase in the Prime Rate, for a credit limit below $125,000, an LTV above 80%, and/or a low credit score. A U.S. Bank Consumer Checking Package account is required to receive the lowest rate, but is not required for loan approval. The rate will not vary above 18% APR, or applicable state law, or below 1.99% APR. Choosing an interest-only repayment may cause your monthly payment to increase, possibly substantially, once your credit line transitions into the repayment period. Repayment options may vary based on credit qualifications. Interest only repayment may be unavailable. Loans are subject to credit approval and program guidelines. Not all loan programs are available in all states for all loan amounts. Interest rates and program terms are subject to change without notice. Property insurance is required. U.S. Bank and its representatives do not provide tax or legal advice. Your tax and financial situation is unique. You should consult your tax and/or legal advisor for advice and information concerning your particular situation. Other restrictions may apply. Mortgage and Home Equity products offered by U.S. Bank National Association. Deposit Products are offered through U.S. Bank National Association. Customer pays no closing costs, except escrow-related funding costs. An annual fee of up to $90 may apply after the first year and is waived with a U.S. Bank personal Platinum Checking Package. The Consumer Pricing Information brochure lists terms and conditions that apply to U.S. Bank Consumer Checking Package accounts and can be obtained by calling 800.872.2657. Member FDIC ©2016 U.S. Bank. All rights reserved. 160083 2/16
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COMMENTARY The moment we have waited for Child Watch
By Marian Wright Edelman Rev. C.T. Vivian, legendary civil rights leader, believes young people today are inheriting the world at a unique crossroads in history and that “this is the moment we have waited for. When I say ‘we’ve’ waited for, I’m talking about humankind has waited for. I’m talking about all the great philosophers and thinkers have waited for this moment. We have lived like we have lived, blowing each other up, killing each other, stealing from each other, making a world that is not fit for human beings we have lived that way because it’s been allowed to be.” But Rev. Vivian believes we are reaching a tipping point where many are realizing we just can’t go on this way and survive. I truly hope so for our children and grandchildren’s sake! Vivian, a Presidential Medal
of Freedom winner, leader in the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), a confidant of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and a role model for so many of us in the 1960s era of civil rights activism and still, has been and remains an indispensable long haul moral, racial and economic justice warrior. At 91 years young he has a crystal clear message for today’s young people and all of us. He inspired and challenged a receptive Children’s Defense Fund audience of college students when he said he is convinced this is the generation that will finally create new ways of solving social problems to make that new, better world we must build together with urgency and persistence. “The human drama of your time will not be a military drama . . . Even if they want it, it can’t happen, because we’ve come to the point that violence cannot solve human problems . . . We can’t live in an atomic world and think like we used to think in terms of how wars were fought, in terms of how men killed each other, because today, if we decide to
It’s up to us to create the world we really want... We’ve got to make it real.
live like we lived yesterday, none of us will live at all.” Instead, “we have to come with a different understanding of our relationships to the world around us, and that’s the most important thing of all . . . You can’t live in yesterday’s world. And I want you to be very thankful of that, because you are forming.” He explained, “The central task will be to remove violence as a means of solving social problems. When we really think of it that way, then we are on our way. The task will
be different than before. We all dreamed of it. We sat in church and talked about it. We made songs about it. We talked about a new world coming. We talked about all of that, right? Now that it’s here, we’ve got to make it real.” It’s up to us to create the world we really want . . . We’ve got to make it real. The 1960s Civil Rights Movement laid a foundation for the new world as ordinary people tired of injustice seized the moral high ground and confronted the racial violence surrounding
them with controlled, disciplined, nonviolent action which allowed America to see there was another way to create change. When C.T. Vivian was jailed and beaten, he never wavered. He says: “Gandhi and the world he lived in changed because he used a different method and a different means. Dr. King changed America because he used a different understanding. He used a different way to move” and Rev. Vivian believes today’s young people can finish what his generation began. His words have a special meaning and challenge today when violence as a conflict resolution strategy has become a daily threat internally and externally in this era of domestic and global terrorism; relentless gun violence in our nation driven by a powerful gun lobby that saps the lives of 30,000 human beings every year including thousands of innocent children; and out of control demagogic political discourse which encourages violence at home and fuels anger around the world by demonizing people who believe and pray differently
from many of us. What is it going to take for enough of our political leaders and citizens to stand up and reject the old world view too often riddled with intolerance and hatred? When will a critical mass of citizens and leaders come together to build a new nation and world fit and safe for all of our children and confront those who fuel racial and religious intolerance within and without our borders? And how many of us will stand up and say no to the violence of coarse and careless political, racial, gender, or any rhetoric intended to demean another human being and that teaches our children we cannot disagree without being disagreeable? Marian Wright Edelman is president of the Children’s Defense Fund whose Leave No Child Behind® mission is to ensure every child a Healthy Start, a Head Start, a Fair Start, a Safe Start and a Moral Start in life and successful passage to adulthood with the help of caring families and communities. For more information go to www. childrensdefense.org
Vote for democracy’s sake By Lee A. Daniels George Curry Media Columnist This year’s presidential election has cast the importance of voting and of American citizens’ right to vote in the sharpest relief and no more so than this month. One reason is our contemporary drama: Donald Trump’s success in wrecking
much of the “old” Republican Party; the popularity among GOP voters of the “platform” of bigotry both Trump and Ted Cruz are running on; the continuing efforts of GOP-controlled state legislatures to block Black and Hispanic voters from voting; and the Republican effort to prevent President Obama’s nominee to the Supreme Court from even being considered by the Senate. All these are rooted
in conservatives’ “long-game” strategy to preserve White conservative control of state governments and the Congress by denying as many Americans of color as possible their right to vote. But a second reason is because March itself has an extraordinary history in the postWorld War II freedom struggle. That history underscores the point that not since the struggle
for Black Americans’ voting rights in the South - which reached its dramatic climax 51 years ago in Selma, Ala. has the fundamental question Americans have always grappled with been so clear and so stark: Is America to be a democracy or not? Before 1965, it was a democracy for Whites only. Negro Slavery; the decimation of First Nations’ peoples; rampant discrimination against Hispanic Americans and Asian Americans and Asian immigrants characterized the horrible flip-side reality of White Americans’ incessant boasting of their commitment to “liberty and justice for all.” The Selma Movement, building on decades of struggle across the South, set in motion a dramatic expansion of democracy that is still producing progress - and provoking fierce resistance - today. On March 15, 1965, eight days after the infamous ‘Bloody Sunday” assault of civil rights marchers at the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, President Lyndon Baines Johnson stood before Congress to declare that within days he would submit the legislation that became the landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA). LBJ opened his great speech, “The American Promise,” with these resounding words: “I speak tonight for the dignity of man and the destiny of democracy.” He was doing so, he proclaimed midway through the speech, “... because it is not just Negroes, but really it is all of us, who must overcome the crippling legacy of bigotry and injustice.” And then, for emphasis, he repeated words that were the signature declaration of the Civil
Rights Movement: “And we shall overcome.” A decade earlier no one would likely have imagined an American president speaking those words. Instead, civil rights forces had to brace for the fundamental message of the Southern Manifesto of 1956. That document, signed by nearly all the Southern Senators and Representatives in Congress and made public on March 12, 1956, was the White South’s answer to the 1954 Supreme Court Brown decision outlawing racial segregation in public schools: That white Southerners’ “massive resistance” to equal rights for Blacks should include violence. (Among those who didn’t sign the statement was Lyndon Baines Johnson, then the Senate Majority Leader.) It was White Southerners’ allegiance to the Southern Manifesto that made the Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA) necessary that year - and ever since. The law’s protections enabled Black voters to marshal their voting power and play smart politics in the only party open to them, the Democratic Party. That four-decade-long effort reached a pinnacle in President Obama’s 2012 reelection. Then, for the first time in American history, the Black voter-turnout rate surpassed that of Whites. The massive voting-booth support Black, Hispanic, and Asian-American voters (along with Jewish- and Muslim-American voters) gave the president, underwrote his victory. The swift racist reaction that exercise in democracy provoked led the following year to the Supreme Court’s then-majority conservative bloc gutting the VRA’s most important
protection, the so-called pre-clearance clause. That violation of democracy, in turn, inspired a substantial increase in the efforts of Republicandominated state legislatures to enact voter identification laws and other measures to limit the number of Democratic-leaning voters from reaching the ballot box. Those efforts are sure to increase between now and November, as Trump and Cruz, for their part, make it more and more clear how threatening a Republican in the White House would be to Americans of color and the interests of democracy. That reality has intensified campaigns by a constellation of Hispanic-American, AsianAmericans and MuslimAmerican groups, respectively, to increase their representation on the nation’s voting lists. Those campaigns, along with similar efforts to get more blacks registered and confident of their ability to overcome states’ voter identification laws, are the bedrock of this year’s voting-rights movement. They underscore what is righteous Americans’ most important responsibility in 2016: to vote Democratic - for democracy’s sake.
KAP
“This is exciting for Knutson,” Wilson said, “because this is the first of such an effort in the industry.” She said key to the program’s potential to be a game changer is the support of the Knutson executive management. “In diversity, if you don’t have support from the top, then nothing gets done,” she said. “In order to implement KAP – company executives had to approve the resources needed to make it happen. Now KAP is well underway and training classes are currently being held at the East Side Enterprise Center, 904 Margaret Avenue in St. Paul. Wilson brings a 30-year history of spearheading
diversity efforts in the corporate and community sectors. She pioneered groundbreaking diversity programs at Xcel Energy for 25 years, then brought that expertise to the non-profit community for about 3 years before joining Knutson Construction 3 years ago. As the Director of Diversity at Knutson Construction she is developing and implementing the innovative KAP effort to help small subcontractors learn more about the business of construction and more about working with general contractors in a way that addresses and reduces the frustration from both sides— the smaller subcontractors and the general contractor project managers.
fall. The tax sites can assist taxpayers file their Minnesota Homestead Credit Refund and Renter’s Property Tax Refund, more commonly known as the “renter’s rebate.” The tax sites can also assist taxpayers file previous year returns. MyFreeTaxes can be used to
complete returns until Oct. 15. To locate a free tax preparation site, visit the Claim it! campaign’s website at www. youclaimit.org. Taxpayers can also call United Way 2-1-1 by dialing 211 from a cell phone or (800) 543-7709 from a landline.
From 5
UNIVERSAL PICTURES PRESENTS AN ON THE DAY/GARY SANCHEZ PRODUCTION MELISSA MCCARTHY MUSIC “TEXECUTIVE HE BOSS” KRISTEN BELL KATHY BATES TYLER LABINE AND PETER DINKLAGE BY CHRISTOPHER LENNERTZ PRODUCED PRODUCERS ROB COWAN KEVIN MESSICK BY MELISSA MCCARTHY p.g.a. BEN FALCONE p.g.a. WILL FERRELL WRITTEN ADAM MCKAY CHRIS HENCHY p.g.a. BY MELIDIRECTEDSSA MCCARTHY & BEN FALCONE & STEVE MALLORY A UNIVERSAL PICTURE BY BEN FALCONE © 2015 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS
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said. “The KAP initiative is a 2 to 5-year commitment. After the 10 weeks, subcontractors will meet monthly for ongoing construction and business presentations, for example, promoting a safety program, bonding, communication and social media, etc. The KAP initiative will not only support the development of construction, but will also improve the business acumen for subcontractors by preparing them with the skill and ability to bid competitively with Knutson and other general contractors.”
Taxes From 5 did not meet the deadline, there are a select number of free tax preparation sites open during the summer and early
Lee A. Daniels, a former reporter for The Washington Post and the New York Times, is also a former editor of The National Urban League’s The State of Black America. He is a keynote speaker and author whose books include Last Chance: The Political Threat to Black America. He is writing a book on the Obama years and the 2016 election. He can be reached at leedaniels journalist@gmail.com
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Insight News • April 4 - April 10, 2016 • Page 7
HEALTH NMA launches campaign to address African-American deaths By Tom Gitaa Mshale News Special to Insight News Heart disease and stroke are the leading killers in women, and stroke disproportionately affects African Americans said Roslyn Daniels, president and founder of Black Health Matters, a patient and consumer-focused health information website for African Americans. Daniels addressed the Multicultural Health Marketing conference in Minneapolis last month, citing the results of a recent
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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 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 Sr. Content & Production Coordinator Ben Williams Production Intern Sunny Thongthi Distribution/Facilities Manager Jamal Mohamed Receptionist Lue B. Lampley Contributing Writers Melvin Carter, Jr. Harry Colbert, Jr. Julie Desmond Fred Easter Timothy Houston Penny Jones-Richardson Alaina L. Lewis Darren Moore Carmen Robles Lydia Schwartz Ryan T. Scott Artika Tyner Toki Wright
study by the American Heart Association. Of African American women ages 20 and older, 49% have heart disease. Only 1 in 5 African American women believes she is personally at risk. Only 52% of African American women are aware of the signs and symptoms of a heart attack. Among Black men age 20 and older, 44.4% have heart disease and are at highest risk of dying early from heart disease and stroke, she said. Daniels was one of the featured speakers at the annual conference that looks into the best practices of marketing to multicultural communities. There are a number of risk factors contributing to the deaths of African Americans, Daniels said. Results from Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) national surveys from 2009 to 2010 estimate that if all the risk factors such as elevated
Roslyn Daniels cholesterol, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and smoking were completely eliminated, about half of the
cardiovascular deaths could be prevented. According to a Cleveland Clinic survey among over
Inc. has been selected as the media partner for the initiative,” Daniels said in Minneapolis. The Prescription for Exercise partnership will send the National Medical Association message to its entire membership with the goal of presenting directly to 5,000 physicians who will treat more than 1 million patients annually. Physicians will learn how to write a prescription for exercise and will do so at the conclusion of each patient visit. The National Medical Association will also hold symposiums in 5 key markets where the rates of physical inactivity are the highest. Additionally, it will create a monthly newsletter that will highlight physician testimonials on their success in motivating patients to exercise as well as a series of original articles to be shared with NMA members and other health advocacy and professional medical associations.
Volunteers, the not-so-secret ingredient for success By Deb Taylor, CEO of Senior Community Services Senior Community Services serves tens of thousands of Minnesota seniors and their caregivers annually, and much of the caring outreach is done thanks to the dedication of 3,700 volunteers. Yes, nearly 4,000 compassionate souls who step forward when there’s a need to make life better for older adults and their families. April is Volunteer Appreciation Month, but we should brag about them all year long. Minnesota’s volunteers are among the 26 percent of Americans who give their time and talents
to serve their communities. And they love it; the feeling of doing good is satisfying. It reminds us that we can make a difference. Volunteering strengthens our families, our communities and gives us a sense of purpose larger than ourselves. Being a blessing to others is one of the purposes for our lives as humans - to make a difference with our lives - to be of service. And we’re discovering that volunteering is good for our health, and even enhances lifespan longevity. Researchers at Britain’s University of Exeter Medical School found that volunteers are more likely to experience less depression, increased life satisfaction, enhanced well-being and even a 20 percent decrease in mortality compared with those
who don’t volunteer. Volunteering feeds the mind, body and spirit. Volunteers discover that every day by the many ways they enrich their lives and the lives of others. Here’s one of my favorite tributes to volunteers: Valuable Is the Work You Do V aluable is the work you do. O utstanding is how you always come through. L oyal, sincere and full of good cheer, U ntiring in your efforts throughout the year. N otable are the contributions you make. T rustworthy in every project you take. E ager to reach your every
Consortium on law and values in health, takes place April 14 Police shootings of young Black men in Ferguson, Mo., New York, Baltimore, Minneapolis and elsewhere have sparked a national conversation about race and justice. These shootings remind us that racial bias, violence, job inequalities and housing segregation all contribute to the health disparities that have long plagued African-American communities. In her April 14 lecture, “Lessons from Ferguson and Beyond: Bias, Health & Justice,” Sidney D. Watson, JD (Center for Health Law Studies, St. Louis University) will discuss current controversies regarding violence against people of color and the role that health law – particularly the Affordable Care Act – and grassroots advocacy can play in addressing racial bias and promoting health justice. Watson will share insights she gained as both an advocate for health care access and a longtime resident of St. Louis County, where events in nearby Ferguson
Kola Okuyemi, MD, MPH
Sidney D. Watson, JD
have exposed the strategies of bias used against Black residents. She will also describe a new civil rights provision of the Affordable Care Action, Section 1115, that prohibits health insurers and health care providers that receive federal financial assistance from discriminating on the ground of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. Dr. Kola Okuyemi, a professor of program in health disparities research at the University of Minnesota will
be on hand to offer perspective he gained over two decades spent creating culturallytailored interventions to improve the health of minorities and underserved populations. A question-and-answer period will follow. The lecture will be held on Thursday, April 14, 2016, 11:30 am-1 pm in the Coffman Theater, Coffman Memorial Union, University of Minnesota, 300 Washington Ave. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455.
Photography David Bradley
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1000 adults, only 20% of adults in the country know that guidelines recommend they exercise at least 150 minutes a week to prevent heart disease. And 40% of respondents said they exercised less than the recommended 150 minutes per week. “Do you know one of the barriers to Black women exercising is their hair? They don’t want to mess it up,” Daniels said. To address the crisis in the Black community, the National Medical Association (NMA) through a partnership with the Coca-Cola Foundation early this month launched the “Prescription for Exercise” to motivate the community to engage in regular exercise. The National Medical Association (NMA) is the nation’s oldest and largest medical association representing the interests of more than 35,000 African American physicians and their patients. “Black Health Matters,
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goal. E ffective in the way you fulfill your role. R eady with a smile like a shining star, S pecial and wonderful—that’s what you are. Thank you Minnesotans for all you do to make your communities better.
Deb Taylor is CEO of Senior Community Services (www. seniorcommunity.org) and its Reimagine Aging Institute, a nonprofit that advocates for Minnesota seniors and caregivers so they can maintain their independence..
Page 8 • April 4 - April 10, 2016 • Insight News
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LIFESTYLE Meditate through the madness How do you get started on this wonderful path of spiritual greatness and optimal health you ask? First, it is important to understand the intent of the practice. Once you do, here are a few tips to help you start your journey.
By Michelle Mitchum, MPH HHP Lately there has been a lot of talk about meditating, and I must admit that I like it J. However, when some people speak of meditating (i.e.; ‘I gotta meditate on that’, or ‘lemme go home and meditate, before I hurt somebody’, lol), I am not sure the meaning of meditation is accurately understood. By the dictionary’s definition, meditation is a practice of concentrated focus upon a sound, object, visualization, breath, or movement itself in order to increase awareness of the present moment, reduce stress, promote relaxation, and enhance personal and spiritual growth. But I believe the majority of us, (our society), have abbreviated its purpose to simply relaxation, and possibly stress reduction, and that’s cool. But, mediation is an ancient practice, and archaeologists have discovered texts that date the practice back to 1500 BC, with origins in India. It is widely believed by spiritualists, that the practice of meditation is meant to help
deepen the understanding of the sacred and mystical forces of life. And, from a spiritual perspective, when someone feels the need to “meditate,” this means that their soul may be calling for peace, clarity, calm or perspective, and they
should really take a moment to honor that. Medical research supports that meditation has a plethora of healing benefits if practiced correctly and regularly. The benefits are so vast, that if I explained ¼ of the benefits
this article would be over 50 pages long. But here is a tidbit - if you suffer from conditions such as hypertension, high cholesterol, or depression, and take a moment to meditate each day for at least 15 minutes, chances are highly likely
that your health will improve by at least 30%. Meditation has also been documented to increase fertility, increase brain capacity, reduce the rate of aging and improve immune response, just to name a few of the benefits.
1. Find the time to meditate. It is not an action that should be rushed. If you are a beginner, set a timer for 5-10 minutes before you begin your practice. 2. Create a peaceful and quiet space. 3. Wear comfortable clothing. Clothing may create a distraction, and it can become difficult to fully experience the practice 4. Sit in your quiet space, with you back straight, (use a cushion if you feel discomfort), and relax your entire body. 5. Make sure your comfortable space is as silent as can be. 6. Try to silence your mind. There may be many thoughts passing through your mind as you attempt this process, and if it becomes difficult to quiet your mind, focus on your breath. 7. Take a deep breath, and focus on it, but do not be overly critical of it.
You are never truly alone Man Talk
By Timothy Houston Men and women view time alone differently. Men often see time alone as an opportunity to do the things they enjoy like hunting, fishing, or any other outings that allows them time to get away.
Immigrants From 1 There is considerable diversity within the populations. Major factors responsible for the changing faces of Twin-Cities are traceable to some of the civil crisis in Asia and Africa. In 1975, a distinct ethnic group with roots in China began coming to Minnesota as refugees moving away from destructive wars that ravaged their homeland in Laos. According to a current report from Minnesota Historical Society, the Twin-Cities Metro is home to the largest concentration of Hmong population in America. To that effect, Hmong immigrants have made a profound impact on their adopted home of Minnesota.
Baker From 1 Baker has 30 years of business experience in private, public and non-profit sectors, as well as 18 years of experience with MnDOT. “Keith is an influential leader in business and has a genuine compassion for the community and its development,” said Geri Boyer, KEG’s president and founder. “He’s the perfect individual to drive KEG’s operations in the Twin Cities region.” Baker said KEG is a significant asset to the region. “Demand is high for (women and) minority-owned firms in the region (to fill government contracts), yet few firms exist,” said Baker. “KEG has the expertise and the capabilities to fill this gap.” Baker said KEG will build and nurture long-lasting relationships, forging new partnerships, and fostering collaborations with communities, agencies and the industry to advance opportunities for women and minority-owned firms to help them compete. According to Baker, there is an abundance of contract opportunities in the region for
Women have a different view on time alone. Some see time alone as being absent from the ones they love. The fear of being alone may be one of the reasons some stay in unhealthy relationships. But this temporal unhealthy relationship is not good because it does not allow the time alone needed to discover real self-value. “There is a tremendous difference between loneliness and aloneness. When you are lonely, you are thinking of the other, feeling that it would have been better if the other - your friend, your wife, your mother, your
beloved, your husband – were there. Loneliness is absence of the other.” - Osho The difference between loneliness and aloneness is a matter of perspective. Loneliness is a feeling and not a reality. It is a negative state because it equals you minus the other. This is an indication that you may be placing greater importance on others than yourself. Loneliness suggests that you are less when others are not present. It makes you dependent on others instead of using your time alone to work on yourself. “Aloneness is the presence
of oneself. Aloneness is very positive. It is a presence, overflowing presence. You are so full of presence that you can fill the whole universe with your presence and there is no need for anybody.” - Osho Aloneness is a choice. It is power and freedom. Relationships with the other is a by-product of “self,” and as a result, strengthening yourself, strengthens your relationships. When there is no significant other, when there is quiet time, you have the power to choose to use this time to develop yourself,
to become greater. All your energy and effort, the time and energy that you might otherwise have to expend on others can be concentrated on you. This will help you to avoid relationships that will drain you. Time alone allows you the opportunity to gain the knowledge that will show you how to attract those that will add positive value to your life. Because of the God-given power within, you do not need anyone to make you whole. God has done that for you. He has declared you to be all
together beautiful and fearfully and wonderfully made. Never settle for less. This is the true knowledge of self. God has promised that he will never leave or forsake you and to be with you always even to the end of the age. Because of this, you are never truly alone.
Suffice is to mention that anyone who drives around the TwinCities will see visible influence of Hmong, Latino and African culture, trade and services. The first wave of Liberian refugees came to America following the first Liberian Civil War between 1989-96 when thousands migrated to the United States. Nonetheless, following the second Liberian Civil War (1999-2003), a larger number of Liberians arrived in the US and began settling in various communities in America with a larger number in the Twin Cities, especially in Northern suburbs of Minneapolis. Current estimates of Somali immigrants living in USA vary widely. Year 2010 American Community Survey data indicates there are approximately 85,700
immigrants of Somali ancestry living in the US. Of that number, about one third live in Minnesota. According to Arab American Institute, Somalis are among the largest Arab-American population in the country. The heaviest concentration of Somalis in the US are in the Twin-Cities, followed by Columbus, Seattle, San Diego, the Washington DC area and limited numbers in a few other cities throughout the country. In a more pronounced way, urban gentrification is beginning to show its largest impact in t Saint Paul and Minneapolis more than any other community in the State. According to reports from the Minnesota Business Immigration Coalition and the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, “immigrant
entrepreneurs have transformed commercial corridors such as University Avenue in Saint Paul and Lake Street in Minneapolis.” Studies about refugee resettlement have also shown that “from year 20002011, about 82% of refugees
arriving into Minnesota were originally from Somalia, Ethiopia and Liberia.” In recent years, other communities in the state have been experiencing some level of population shift due to the arrival of new
immigrants and refugees. Increased collaboration among immigrant populations and positive dynamics between the leadership of the City of Saint Paul and Minneapolis will form the bedrock for a greater State of Minnesota.
minority-owned businesses. He said over the next 10 years, $10 billion is slated for public infrastructure improvements and private development in the Twin Cities metropolitan area alone, and $6.8 billion is projected in the next 20 years for projects in
Rochester. Baker is an executive board member and program chair with Everybody In, an organization with the goal to eliminate racial employment disparities in St. Paul and Minneapolis and the seven-county region by 2020.
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.
Introducing HWMR a lifestyle brand whose mantra is Excellence, more specifically, Black Excellence. HWMR was born out of the barbershop in the Camden section of North Minneapolis. It’s founder, Houston White, believes the barbershop is the mecca for black men across America. It’s a place where black men from diverse backgrounds converge. It’s for us, by us – the music, the incense burning, and the pictures on the wall – a reflection of our greatness. The networking potential is unbelievable. In fact, it’s the very place where H. White laid the foundation for the wildly successful H. White Custom Homes. The HWMR brand is a reflection of our times; it borrows from the past, yet aims to propel the classic style of yesteryears into the future. It’s vintage modernism. “It feels like the men of my generation have dropped the ball when it comes to the way we as a whole present ourselves to the world. As stated by G. Bruce Boyer, we make decisions based on peoples appearances.” — H. White
Photo: Rebecca Rabb
“It is both delusional and stupid to think that clothes don’t really matter and we should all wear whatever we want. Most people don’t take clothing seriously enough, but whether we should or not, clothes do talk to us and we make decisions based on peoples appearances.” — G. Bruce Boyer
The goal of HWMR is to provide superior products with excellent service while inspiring greatness. Please join in as we realign with the awesomeness of our forefathers vision and forge the new frontier of Black Excellence. A portion of every dollar earned by HWMR will go towards the HWMR Scholarship fund for future entrepreneurs. •
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Insight News • April 4 - April 10, 2016 • Page 9
COMMUNITY Forging equitable communities By Gary L. Cunningham President and CEO, Metropolitan Economic Development Association Editor’s note: This article is the second of a three-part series on creating new structures of opportunity. It was first published by PRRAC in the March 2016 issue of P&R. Caste System: Alive and Well in Minnesota In 1998, I became the director of planning and development for Hennepin County. In this role, I was the person in charge of policy research for one of America’s most prosperous counties. Soon after I arrived, I was summoned to a commissioner’s office and he asked me point blank: “Why are so many young men populating street corners in the middle of the day, rather than working earning a living and raising their families” (Gary L. Cunningham, 2006). Regardless of that commissioner’s awareness, his question triggered a significant four year quest to find answers. With my help, the African American Men Project (AAMP) was born. AAMP enlisted the support of community leaders, academics, politicians and the business community. Together we took a deep look at the ecosystem in which young African American men live. We found some startling realities for these young men (John M. Bryson, Gary L. Cunningham and Karen J. Lokkesmoe, 2002). In 2002, African American males 18-30 years of age in Hennepin County shared in the following (Crossroads, 2002): • 49% lived in one of Minneapolis’ five poorest and
Clark From 1 referring to Clark. The Hennepin County prosecutor – relying on testimony from the officers involved – said Clark told the officers he was “ready to die.” “We’re tired of being lied to,” said Mica Grimm of Black Lives Matter immediately after Freeman’s announcement. “We watched video of Jamar Clark being taken down forcefully and that was not mentioned in the narrative Mike Freeman gave. This is not justice. This building
Commentary From 1 and tolerate his justification for the homicide of Clark, an unarmed 24-year-old Black man. I was able to watch the grainy videos Freeman chose to show – most showing nothing, but one showing an officer yank Clark from behind with Clark not facing any officers and seemingly posing no threat to anyone. I was able to tolerate Freeman’s claim that Clark
least safe neighborhoods. • Homicide was the most common cause of death. • Over 44% of this population were arrested each year in the three years studied—a higher percentage than were arrested in the South Africa at the height of apartheid system. • Twenty-seven times more likely to go to jail than young white men and twice as likely to die. • Criminal justice expenditures involving them were over $220 million per year. • 54% of young African American children in Hennepin County were being raised in single parent households.
Federal and local housing policies shaped the present-day geographic areas of raciallyconcentrated urban poverty.
that public policy has prompted significant increases in racial concentrations of poverty. Increasingly so, a person’s zip code is all that’s needed to accurately predict their likely life outcomes. If you’re white, the Twin Cities metropolitan region is one of the best places to live in the country. The Twin Cities is ranked as the fittest, cleanest, best for running, best for finding a job, and among the most literate cities in the nation (Rankings, 2012). The list goes on. According to the Metropolitan Council, in 2015, the Twin Cities ranked #1 or #2 among 25 largest metropolitan areas in the following categories (Metrostats, 2015):
vitality of this region. Currently, residents of color make up almost one-quarter of the metro’s population; by 2040, their share in the region’s total will be 40 percent. The Twin Cities region cannot and will not continue to thrive if disparities hold back a growing share of its population” (Choice, Place and Opportunity, 2014). Holding in place these horrendous disparities are deeply embedded historic housing patterns, ones that nurture and enforce segregation (Structural Racialization, 2012). Federal and local housing policies shaped the present day geographic areas of racially concentrated urban poverty. These housing policies are reinforced by a variety of systems of opportunity that maintain racial and ethnic inequalities. These include opportunities for:
short of obtaining the social and human capital necessary to pursue the American Dream. I recently had lunch with a young planning researcher at the University of Minnesota, a man whom I consider a friend. Of East Indian descent, he and his family had moved to North Minneapolis a few years back. This young man was advocating for social change in the community. He started the conversation off by stating, “While I’m not a segregationist, I believe that we shouldn’t move low-income people of color out of this community to the suburbs and create gentrification.” He further stated that he believes the best approach is “equity in place” to reinvest in the inner city communities so that they can become engines of equity and opportunity. I said to him, “Anytime you have to start your argument by saying you are not a segregationist, that’s problematic. Segregation has not worked for us.” Yet on one significant point, my friend is correct: Migrations are happening today in metropolitan areas throughout the country. The areas near downtown—where
low-income people of color live—are being gentrified. Professionals (mostly white) who once coveted the suburban lifestyle are now migrating to inner city communities. The impact of their housing choices are driving up property values and displacing low-income people of color. Over this last decade, events and opportunities, which I’ll describe, taught me many things. They also convinced me that stable, mixed income, racially diverse communities are the key. Only with them can we address the tenacious problems—sown over decades of isolation from opportunity structures—that low-income people of color face.
(Hennepin County Government Center) is fake. This proceeding is fake. We will not accept it, so if we can’t find justice here we will find it in the streets.” Grimm said by finding it in the streets she means a continued strategy of long-term nonviolent protests. In fact a couple of large gatherings took place the evening of the announcement – one at the scene of Clark’s shooting on Plymouth Avenue North and another at Elliot Park, south of downtown. Protesters from both events marched to the Hennepin County Government Center where an hour-long rally was held. Additional protests have
been planned in hopes of getting a federal indictment of the officers. Freeman said Clark’s DNA was found on Ringgenberg’s gun and utility belt, however Clark’s fingerprints were not on the gun or belt. Freeman explained away the absence of fingerprints saying prints were hard to collect from the gun handle, but he did not address the lack of prints on the belt or any other part of the gun. “The entire case seems to hinge on police statements and DNA evidence … DNA that was handled by the Minneapolis Police Department,” said Grimm. “The other issue is the point that Freeman made that (Clark)
was not handcuffed,” said Raeisha Williams, communications chair of the Minneapolis NAACP. “(Freeman) reiterated that over and over. Being handcuffed should not be the determining factor to determine if it’s OK for someone to be murdered.” Several witnesses stated Clark was handcuffed when he was killed, a fact in dispute since the onset. “It basically says the word of police officers who murder will be placed over the word of dozens of witnesses in the community,” said Nekima Levy-Pounds, president of the Minneapolis NAACP.
In clearing the officers of any criminal wrongdoing, Freeman did say that Ringgenberg’s chokehold takedown of Clark was “not the preferred method” by the Minneapolis Police Department of handling a suspect and attributed the tactic to training Ringgenberg received when working as an officer in San Diego. The interaction of the officers and Clark began when police were called to the scene following an altercation between Clark and a woman described as his girlfriend where the woman injured her leg, thus the call for an ambulance. Freeman
said ambulance workers called for officers because they were fearful of Clark, who they said was behaving aggressively towards them. Video footage (that is online on the Hennepin County attorney’s website) does show Clark interacting with the woman and paramedics but that interaction is verbal and there is no audio accompanying the video. “The narrative that Mike Freeman presented does not corroborate with what we saw on the video,” said Danny Manning, a pastor and member of the Black Lives Matter movement.
reached for and had control of an officer’s gun – a claim backed up by the evidence of Clark’s DNA on Ringgenberg’s gun, utility belt and holster (DNA that could have been transferred by sweat, spit or the blood of an exploded head) – but not one fingerprint or palm print of any kind could be found on the officer’s equipment. I was able to tolerate Freeman’s use of vile language attributed to Clark in an attempt to demonize and discredit Clark … the victim … the one with a hole in his head
… the one whose cause of death on his death certificate reads homicide. I was able to tolerate Freeman’s repeated claims that Clark spontaneously became suicidal and shouted,“I’m ready to die.” I could tolerate all of that. I was emotionless. In reality I was numb. It wasn’t until we got outside of the courtroom of Freeman’s announcement that emotions … reality … hit me. A separate press conference was hastily called by Minneapolis NAACP President Nekima Levy-Pounds. Levy-
Pounds, along with other members of the Minneapolis NAACP and the Black Lives Matter movement, passionately and angrily spoke calling out Freeman’s press conference for what it was … a carefully crafted act of smoke and mirrors. I remained professional … dare I say stoic. That was until after LevyPounds, Mica Grimm, Pastor Danny Givens, Raeisha Williams and Wintana Melekin called an end to their press conference and Levy-Pounds,
Givens and others broke into tears. The reality of what just happened sunk in for them … and then it sunk in for me. LevyPounds and I (and later Grimm and I) embraced and we cried. The NAACP president and Grimm weren’t my subjects, they were people in mourning and I was in mourning with them – firsthand witnesses to what we saw as a murderous cover-up. Being a journalist is my profession. I can always change professions; I can never change being Black. The reality is we saw a
Black man – flawed, but not beyond redemption – with his back to police and posing no threat, violently placed in a chokehold, yanked to the ground and pulled away from the lens of a recording camera. The officer who initiated physical contact got up and dusted himself off. Clark never got up. Excuse me as I break from Associated Press style and address a person in subsequent reference by his first name. Jamar never got up. Jamar will never get up. And together as a community we all mourn … again.
In 2010, Michelle Alexander defined the mass incarceration of African American men as the new Jim Crow (those subjugating laws so pervasive across the South from 1870 to 1965). According to Alexander, “The racial dimensions of mass incarceration is its most striking feature. No other country in the world imprisons so many of its racial or ethnic minorities. The United States imprisons a larger percentage of its population than South Africa did at the height of apartheid” (Michelle Alexander, 2012). Problem: Structures Lock in Poverty Research confirms that children and adults living in highly concentrated poverty and segregated places experience mutually reinforcing and cumulative negative impacts. Adding together the greater likelihoods of 1) lower educational attainment, 2) living in substandard housing, and 3) being involved in—or being the victims of—crime, the net outcome is falling far
Classifieds
Race Matters: The Twin Cities is Best and Worst Place to Live Five years ago I was appointed by Minnesota’s Governor Mark Dayton to sit on the regional planning body called the Metropolitan Council. Part of the Metropolitan Council’s charge is to plan economic development of the Minneapolis/St. Paul metropolitan area. Working on the council, I learned firsthand
Phone: 612.588.1313
• Population of age 25 with high school diploma • Percentage of the civilian working age population that is employed • Percentage of individuals with incomes at or above the federal poverty threshold • Percentage of householders who own their own homes However, if you’re a person of color, particularly African American, your family’s outcomes are diametrically opposed to the above data. In fact, in the same study, the Metropolitan Council found that “the Twin Cities metro’s disparities between African Americans and white, non-Latinos in educational attainment, employment, poverty rates and homeownership are the largest among the top 25 metro[politan areas]” (Metrostats, 2015). According to the Metropolitan Council, “Unchallenged, these disparities jeopardize the future economic
Fax: 612.588.2031
Employment Access to capital Education Health care access Justice in policing and the courts • Transit and transportation Shifting and often reorganizing themselves, these systems of opportunity impact—and are impacted by—the vast networks of our individual and collective behaviors. Next week: Solution: No Easy Answers Gary L. Cunningham (gcunningham@media.net) is President and CEO of Metropolitan Economic Development Association, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota. He is a Metropolitan Council Member, and chairs the Community Development Committee.
Email: info@insightnews.com
Reimbursed Senior Volunteer Positions
E. SHANELL SALON IS NOW HIRING!
Operations Generalist – Duluth
Parent Aware Quality Coach: FT
Senior Corps is seeking volunteers aged 55+ willing to help seniors as friendly visitors in their homes and for outings in the community OR to help kids in schools as mentors. Tax free stipend, travel reimbursement, and other benefits. Contact Lisa Beardsley at 651.310.9450 or lisa.beardsley@lssmn.org
South Minneapolis salon is looking for a mature and responsible Stylist and Nail Technician. Space available for booth rent. E. SHANELL SALON, 4118 Cedar Ave S Minneapolis MN. 55407. For more information: Call 612-724-4435.
The U.S. District Court, District of MN is accepting applications for a full-time Operations Generalist in Duluth, MN. Salary range is $39,171 - $63,664. For more information visit the court’s website, www.mnd.uscourts.gov, Employment.
Facilitator Positions (volunteer)
An Equal Opportunity Employer
Care Consultant Manager Alzheimer’s Association - Edina, MN
$14.76 - $16.24 DOQ. Some Child Development college credit; 3 yrs. Exp.; 1 yr. RBPD; driver’s license; reliable transportation; Knowledge: Child development; early learning standards; community resources; Abilities: Work independently; meet deadlines; maintain confidentiality; team environment; PC computer; home visiting; work with diverse populations; Duties: Provide TA to providers in Anoka/Washington Counties; recruit child care programs; present recruitment information sessions; Full description app at www.accap.org. ACCAP is an Equal Opportunity Employer ACCAP is an Equal Opportunity Employer
The Care Consultant Manager is primarily responsible for managing all aspects of the care consultation program in the nine county metro area and providing technical assistance to the MN Regional offices, as needed. This position will also provide care consultation services by assessing individual/caregiver/ family, developing individualized treatment plans to address biopsychosocial needs and implementing the treatment plan accordingly. This position will fulfill requirements of related grants including documentation and tracking referrals, and additional collaborative administrative projects. This person will assist with delivery of centralized, high quality, evidence-based educational programs and outreach events for people with dementia, their families, and professionals in the community. Please apply with cover letter, references and resume to http://www.alz.org/mnnd/in_my_ community_about.asp.
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.
Would you like to gain 140 pounds after the Empower older adults to manage their health! Volunteer facilitator positions have opened at East Side Neighborhood Services (ESNS). ESNS, in collaboration with Metropolitan Area Agency on Aging and the Wilder Foundation, is hosting evidencedbased classes and workshops: Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance, A Matter of Balance, and Living Well with Chronic Conditions. We are seeking leaders who are comfortable and engaging in front of a small group. Experience working with diverse communities required. Facilitators must attend training (varies from two to four days depending on the class), commit to leading two entire sessions of a class or workshop (six to 12 weeks per session depending on the class), and adhere to established curriculum. We anticipate most groups will meet during the day. Classes and workshops meet either twice a week for one hour or once a week for two hours. To apply, contact Brenna Horn, Senior Health and Wellness Coordinator at ESNS: 612-787-4055 , bhorn@esns.org.
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Volunteer Greeters
Foster Care
Volunteers of America, MN Would you like to gain 140 pounds after the Holidays? Not physically gain this weight, but weight in the sense of another person! Volunteers of America-MN is looking for skilled, dedicated parents to provide care for at-risk youth, ages ranging from infants to teenagers. We provide foster parents with lots of friendly training, 24-hour support, and a monthly stipend. For more information, please contact Brittani Walker at 952-945-4064 or visit our website http://www.voamnwi.org/foster-care
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insightnews.com Jay Electronica
Pusha T
Father
Habib Koite and Vusi Mahlasela Flatbush Zombies
SF Jazz Collective West Bank Open Mic The SFJazz Collective is an all-star jazz ensemble comprising of eight performer and composers. Each year the ensemble performs a new list of compositions by a modern jazz master and new pieces by the collective members. This time around it music originally performed by the King of Pop, Michael Jackson.
April 4 - 10
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
Monday, April 4 JAZZ/POP/PERFORMANCE SFJazz Collective: The Music of Michael Jackson Dakota Jazz Club 1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis 7 p.m. $35-$45
Tuesday, April 5 HIP-HOP/PERFORMANCE Acoustic Africa feat. Habib Koité and Vusi Mahlasela The Cedar Cultural Center 416 Cedar Ave. S., Minneapolis 7:30 p.m $30-$35 Hailing from the musically prolific West African nation of Mali, the guitarist and composer Habib Koité has been named the biggest pop star of the region by Rolling Stone. Vusi Mahlasela, is simply known as “The Voice” in his home country of South Africa and is celebrated for his distinct, powerful voice and his poetic, optimistic lyrics.
and helped push the careers of artists like iLoveMakonnen. This show features Bobby Raps, Martin Sky, Tiiiiiiiiiip and bvkwoods. RSVP at www. redbullsoundselect.com.
Saturday, April 9 Wednesday, April 6 HIP-HOP Flatbush Zombies First Avenue 701 1st Ave. N., Minneapolis 6 p.m. All ages $20 Flatbush Zombies has emerged as a template for independent musicianship. The group’s live shows are nothing less than high energy mayhem. The night features performances by A$AP Twelvyy and Remy Banks. HIP-HOP Pusha T Mill City Nights 111 N. 5th St., Minneapolis 8 p.m. $35
Pusha T, one half of the legendary duo Clipse comes to Mill City Nights.
Friday, April 8 HIP-HOP/R&B/SOUL
Thursday, April 7 HIP-HOP/DANCE/ PERFORMANCE West Bank Open Mic: Music as Power Cedar Commons 2001 Riverside Ave., Minneapolis 8 p.m. – 10 p.m. $20 This week’s open mic will be about music and the power that it has to tell our stories and to push towards change and to raise consciousness. The show features Joe Davis and The Poetic Diaspora.
Minnesota Music Summit with Toki Wright and Big Cats feat. Ashley Dubose Amsterdam Bar and Hall 6 W 6th St., St Paul The Minnesota Music Coalition is a statewide network for independent musicians who care about creating and sustaining a vibrant popular music community. This year’s summit headliners include Toki Wright and Big Cats and Ashley Dubose. HIP-HOP/PERFORMANCE Red Bull Sound Selects Presents: Father The Cabooze 917 Cedar Ave. S., Minneapolis 18-plus $3 (must RSVP) Atlanta’s Father has racked up millions of Internet impressions
POP/R&B Herschel and the Detainees Gluek’s 16 N. 6th St., Minneapolis 21-plus $5 Catch this eclectic live band in downtown Minneapolis.
Sunday, April 10 HIP-HOP Jay Electronica Cabooze 917 Cedar Ave. S., Minneapolis 18-plus $20 On the short list of hip-hop artists with mainstream appeal, artistic integrity and old school support, Jay Electronica is an anomaly. Catch the Roc Nation signee with Sarah White and Greg Grease.
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Insight News • April 4 - April 10, 2016 • Page 11
Penumbra presents ‘Sunset Baby’ by award-winning playwright Dominique Morisseau From the acclaimed playwright of “Detroit ‘67” Dominique Morrisseau presents her new play “Sunset Baby.” Directed by Lou Bellamy, “Sunset Baby” is a fatherdaughter drama about the emotional cost of revolution and the possibility of love. The production opens April 14 and continues through May 8 at Penumbra Theatre, 270 North Kent St., St. Paul. Previews are April 12 and 13. Tickets range in price from $15 to $40 and are on sale through Penumbra Theatre’s box office at (651) 224-3180 and online at www.penumbratheatre.org. “Sunset Baby” is the story of Kenyatta Shakur. His wife has died, and now, this former Black revolutionary and political prisoner, is desperate to reconnect with his estranged daughter Nina. If he truly wants to reconcile his past, he must first mend his broken relationship with Nina. As father and daughter connect, old wounds are revealed, generational differences are exposed and painful truths laid bare. The cast includes Jasmine Hughes, Penumbra Theatre Company member James Craven and Twin Cities newcomer Ronnel Taylor.
Courtesy of Penumbra Theatre Company
Tres Chic Angelique! By Kam Williams Angelique Rivera is a talented young actress who arrived in Hollywood and shortly thereafter landed her first major role starring in the second season of the criticallyacclaimed, ABC drama, “American Crime,” created by Oscar-winner John Ridley. She stars on the series as ‘Evy’ who is central to the drama’s storyline as the only witness to a major crime. And she is joined on the show by an all-star cast including Regina King, Felicity Huffman and Timothy Hutton. Angelique may be new to Hollywood, but she is no stranger to acting. She began performing at an early age and knew she had found her calling. Growing up in Kissimmee, Fla., she starred in her high school’s musicals as well as in local community theater productions. Angelique graduated from the University of Florida in December 2014 with a Bachelor’s degree in Theatre Performance before moving to Los Angeles to launch her career. Away from work, she enjoys such activities as swimming, paddle boarding and yoga. She is a self-proclaimed foodie who enjoys cooking and exploring exotic cuisines, too. Kam Williams: Hi Angelique, thanks for the interview. Angelique Rivera: Thanks for having me, Kam. KW: Congratulations on making a spectacular screen debut on “American Crime,” and on getting raves from Entertainment Weekly and others for your performance as Evy Dominguez. AR: Thank you so much! It’s been such an amazing ride and I feel very fortunate to be a part of this show. KW: Did you expect to make such a splash? AR: No, not really, but it’s nice knowing that people are connecting to Evy. She is very special to me and I worked hard
to make sure that I accurately portrayed her truthfully and authentically. KW: Was there a special approach you took to the character that might have helped turn it into a breakout role for yourself? AR: I really wanted to experience what her life was like. So, I volunteered at a learning center for students who come from low-income families. It was so eye- opening. I really got to know these kids and see the environment they lived in, because the center was located in their apartment complex. It really informed me about Evy and what her day-to-day life looked like. Also, seeing these kids with smiles on their faces, despite their circumstances, proved to me just how strong they are. I had a better understanding of Evy’s strength through that experience. Physically, I decided to inhabit Evy’s tomboyish ways in my life off set. I stopped wearing makeup, I stopped whitening my teeth, I grew out my eyebrows, I stopped getting my nails and hair done, and I wore baggier clothes. I felt like I needed to make being a tomboy feel more normal for me because I am naturally such a girly girl and I didn’t want to show up to set not feeling comfortable in Evy’s appearance. So I got used to it and then it felt like second nature. KW: It probably helps that the series was created and written by John Ridley, who won an Oscar for the script of 12 Years a Slave. AR: Oh yeah, that helps. [Laughs] To be honest, it’s hard to be bad when the writing is so good. It’s a gift for an actor to work with John and the team he has assembled, the writers, the directors, the crew, etcetera. KW: You graduated from the University of Florida less than two years ago. How did you
RIVERA TURN TO 12
Jasmine Hughes, who plays the main character Nina in “Sunset Baby”
Page 12 • April 4 - April 10, 2016 • Insight News
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Rivera
go was swim or at least that’s what we thought. Mind you, this is not a small lake and the water is also freezing! I have no idea what we were thinking, but my boyfriend convinced me to swim across this lake with him. Half way through my boyfriend says we should turn back, but I was like no we are going to finish it now. The current was strong and I ended up losing my bikini bottoms shortly after. It was literally like [the Discovery Channel’s] “Naked and Afraid.” There was a point where I thought I was going to drown and die because I was getting so tired from swimming. By the grace of God, we both made it across and I could not move I was so exhausted. I had to put on my boyfriend’s swim trunks and we ended up walking back around the entire lake to get back to our friends. You couldn’t pay me to get into that lake again.
From 11 manage to conquer Hollywood so quickly? AR: Well, the summer before I graduated I interned at a talent agency and that experience really prepped me for my big move to L.A. One of the agents gave me advice and told me one of the first things I needed to do was get a manager, someone to shape my career from the beginning. So that’s what I did. I set up meetings with managers before I moved to LA and met with Joan Green Management my first day in LA and then signed with them a week later. So, I hit the ground running and the rest is history. I had no time to waste and I’m so grateful to my managers for believing in me when all I had on my resume was college theatre and student films. [Laughs some more]
KW: Wow! If you could have one wish instantly granted, what would that be for? AR: I would wish for world peace. Cliché? I know but I think we desperately need it.
KW: Can you share a surprising development involving your character we can expect to see later in the season? AR: John likes to keep things under wraps for the most part. However, I will say that Evy is going to be faced with a tough decision that could greatly affect Taylor’s case. She also will understand more of what Taylor has been going through because of something that happened to her at school with another boy.
KW: The Sanaa Lathan question: What excites you? AR: The sunrise: the sign of a new day. KW: What is your guiltiest pleasure? AR: Ben and Jerry’s Half Baked ice cream.
KW: Besides acting, you also studied singing and dancing. Which is your favorite? AR: Acting is my favorite, but singing is a close second. I love musical theater, because then I get to do both and throw some dancing in there, too!
KW: “Realtor to the Stars” Jimmy Bayan asks: What’s your dream locale in Los Angeles to live? AR: Up in the hills, somewhere remote and quiet. KW: The Kerry Washington question: If you were an animal, what animal would you be? AR: A dolphin, hands down. I love to swim and to be in the ocean. They are also the smartest animals, other than humans, of course, and I think they are the cutest.
KW: Harriet Pakula-Teweles asks: With so many classic films being redone, is there a remake you’d like to star in? AR: West Side Story. Ever since I was a little girl, I always wanted to be Maria. KW: What’s your dream movie role? AR: I feel like people look at me and don’t see as “bad guy,” but I would love to play a villainous character. I love to challenge myself by playing characters that are nothing like me.
KW: Larry Greenberg asks: Do you have a favorite movie monster? AR: Does Gollum count? Kevin Thomas Photography
Angelique Rivera KW: What is your favorite dish to cook? AR: I love Brussels sprouts and I make this mean Brussels sprout dish with mushrooms, onions, garlic, spinach, and goat cheese. KW: Who loved you unconditionally during your formative years? AR: My family. They have always been supportive of me, my mom and grandma especially. They never missed a performance I was in. KW: Was there a meaningful spiritual component to your childhood? AR: My family raised me in the Christian church. My whole family is Christian, so I’ve never known anything else. However, I’m not religious. To
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me, spirituality doesn’t come from a religion but from a personal relationship with God. KW: What was your very first job? AR: My first job was as a character performer at Walt Disney World. I was “friends” with Princess Jasmine, Chip and Dale, Jessie, and King Louie. It was the best first job ever! I loved it. KW: What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever done? AR: This past summer, I went on a camping road trip with my boyfriend, my best friend and her boyfriend. Our first destination was Lake Tahoe. We went to one of the lakes in that area and my boyfriend wanted to go cliff jumping off the rocks across the lake. The only way to
KW: Sure, why not? Judyth Piazza asks: What key quality do you believe all successful people share? AR: Passion! KW: The Tavis Smiley question: How do you want to be remembered? AR: I want to be remembered as the woman who spread love and light wherever she went, as well as the woman who inspired others to pursue their dreams because, if she did it, so can you. KW: Finally, what’s in your wallet? AR: Lots of receipts, debit cards, credit cards, rewards cards and my checkbook. [Sarcastically] REALLY exciting stuff. [LOL]. KW: Thanks again for the time, Angelique, and best of luck with the show. AR: Thank you so much, Kam