Insight News ::: 5.3.10

May 3 - May 9, 2010 • MN Metro Vol. 36 No. 18 • The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • www.insightnews.com

Admission Possible seniors set the pace in scholarships

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Photo by Elliot Stewart-Franzen

The Bottineau Corridor extends between Downtown Minneapolis and North Minneapolis through the Northwest Suburbs of the Twin Cities

Light rail transit may spur Northside recovery

By Lydia Schwartz Hennepin County is currently in the analysis stage of planning a light rail line along the Bottineau Corridor. The county must determine what route makes sense by taking into account factors such as potential ridership, economic access, and the impact it will have on housing and parking.

Transit officials are taking on this project in order to integrate a comprehensive transportation plan for the Twin Cities, decrease car miles traveled, and

increase access to historically disadvantaged communities.

The Bottineau Corridor extends between downtown Minneapolis and North Minneapolis through the Northwest Suburbs of the Twin Cities. These include Golden Valley, Crystal, Robbinsdale, New Hope, Osseo, Brooklyn Park and Maple Grove. In addition, the travelshed for this corridor will eventually extend through the rapidly growing communities of Dayton, Rogers, and Hassan Township.

State Rep. Bobby Joe Champion (DFL-58B) is

heading a Bottineau Residents Discussion Group to identify issues and solutions for the future development of the Bottineau Transitway. He applauds the engineers and transit experts at Hennepin Country who have done a lot of great work so far but wants the community to review what they have done and voice its opinion. “You don’t have to know everything about transit [to make this contribution to your community]. There are technical people to support our discussion,” Champion said.

One concerned citizen at the

Bottineau Residents Discussion Group pointed out that much of the decision-making power is in the hands of the corporations and institutions rather than the residents that this project will affect.

Champion agrees, saying that “the power is in the beginning of the process. We all have questions and we want to be able to give our recommendation [back to Hennepin County].” He says it is also the responsibility of the community to build a plan for the economic development along the Bottineau Corridor.

There were originally 21

possible routes but transit engineers at Hennepin County have narrowed it down to basically two main alternatives.

Both will begin in Robbinsdale and run south along the Burlington Northern Santa Fe rail line.

Their first alternative would then turn east on 36th Avenue North to stop at North Memorial Medical Center; head southeast on Broadway Avenue West to stop at Penn Avenue North; turn south on Penn and stop at Plymouth Avenue

RAIL TURN TO

Book review: “The Other Wes Moore: One Name, Two Fates”

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Organizing Apprenticeship Project says:

Q&A legislative session was best and worst Part one in a series from “Conversations with Al McFarlane” Public Policy Broadcasts on KFAI-90.3FM (in Minneapolis) and 106.7FM (in St. Paul) and online at kfai.org

Suluki Fardan and studiotobechi (Bill English photo)

Chris Stewart, T. Williams, Bill English and Rev. Randolph Staten.

Jermaine Toney, of the Organizing Apprenticeship Project, joined program host Al McFarlane to discuss the organization’s Legislative Report Card. Toney, the lead researcher with OAP, OAP TURN TO 2

Amhearst Wilder Neighborhood leadership program graduates 32

PAGE 7 Jermaine Toney

Courtesy of OAP

MPS will invest in North Minneapolis DFL endorses Anderson-Keliher School Board chooses 1250 West Broadway for brand new district headquarters facility

By Al McFarlane & B.P. Ford, The Editors The Minneapolis Board of Education last Tuesday voted to move forward with a proposal to relocate the school district offices to a new facility it will build at 1250 West Broadway in North Minneapolis.

The decision was hailed as a significant victory for supporters of public education and education reform advocates who maintain that the business of education is an integral part of the mission of education.

“By developing a new headquarters facility in North Minneapolis, and by awarding the nearly $30 million contract to a firm that has excelled in creating economic inclusion and parity by setting and exceeding sub-contractor and workforce wmbe/dbe goals, the Board is signaling that it will align how it does business with the interests of its customers, the majority of whom are children of color and their families,” said the Rev. Randolph Staten, co-chair of the Coalition of Black Churches/African American Leadership Summit (CBC/AALS).

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Margaret Anderson-Keliher thanked DFL supporters Monday for selecting her to become the party’s standard bearer in this fall’s Minnesota Governor race.

She won the party’s endorsement Saturday in the party’s state endorsing convention in Duluth.

Anderson-Keliher still faces opposition from at least two strong DFL candidates who say they will seek nomination by DFL voters in the August Primary Election.

Former Senator Mark Dayton had previously announced he would take his case directly to DFL voters by placing his name on the ballot in the Primary Election. Former DFL House Leader Matt Entenza used the convention to announce he would not seek endorsement by the

convention, but, like Dayton, would seek to become the party nominee for governor by competing against other DFLers in the August Primary.

“It’s been a whirlwind since we clinched the DFL endorsement late on Saturday night, and I want you to know that we won because of your strong support of this campaign,” Anderson-Keliher said in a fundraising letter to DFLers.

“We built the best organization and the strongest convention team and we simply could not have done it without you and the thousands of great Minnesotans supporting us.

There’s no two ways about it,” she said.

“Today, I’m writing from my statewide DFL Unity Tour with

File Photo

Margaret Anderson-Keliher

Sen. Al Franken, Rep. Tim Walz, Rep. Betty McCollum, Rep. Keith Ellison, Secretary of State Mark Ritchie, State Auditor Rebecca Otto, Mayor R.T. DFL TURN TO 7

Look for another series

of Kobe’s championship Nike puppet commercials

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Page 2 • May 3 - May 9, 2010 • Insight News

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Clay receives Spirit of Democracy award Washington, DC -Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Information Policy, Census, and National Archives, US Rep. William Lacy Clay (D-MO), is among the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation’s 2010 Spirit of Democracy Award recipients, Melanie L. Campbell, executive director and CEO of The National Coalition, announced recently. The awards will be presented during The National Coalition’s 13th Annual Spirit of Democracy Awards Gala on Wednesday, May 19.

Other 2010 Spirit Honorees include: Ralph Everett, president and CEO, Joint Center

for Political and Economic Studies; Tony Gladney, vice president, National Diversity Relations, Harrah’s Entertainment, Inc.; Marc Morial, president and CEO, National Urban League; and Makani Themba-Nixon, executive director, The Praxis Project.

“All of our 2010 honorees work in their own way to make change happen,” said Campbell.

“This year’s theme is ‘The Year to Make Change Happen,’ so we selected people who have taken the lead to make change happen in poor and underserved communities across the country.”

The Spirit of Democracy Awards are presented to individuals and organizations who have demonstrated a consistent commitment to creating balance in the democratic process and support the NCBCP’s mission and vision of making civic participation a cultural responsibility and tradition. Sponsors include Amgen, AT&T, Verizon, AFLCIO, and AFT, among others.

Founded in 1976, The National Coalition is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to increasing African American participation in civil society.

The current programs and

initiatives of the organization include Black Youth Vote!, Black Women’s Roundtable, and the Unity Diaspora Coalition’s 2010 census and mid-term election campaigns.

The National Coalition has trained and engaged African American leaders and community activists in overcoming institutional barriers that have hindered the growth of Black communities politically, socially and economically.

The event is open to the public. Individual ticket prices are $175. For tickets or more information call (202) 659-4929 or visit www.ncbcp.org.

Congressman Clay (D-MO)

File Photo

Regional transit system ranks high in efficiency

By Peter Bell Over the last seven years, the Metropolitan Council has had considerable success in expanding our regional transit system and growing ridership.

We’ve opened our first light rail line in the Hiawatha corridor and begun work on our second in the Central corridor. We’ve started service on our first commuter rail line in the Northstar corridor. And we’ve completed the first phase of bus rapid

OAP From 1 is a graduate of Patrick Henry High School, received his B.A. from University of St. Thomas in St. Paul and received his M.S. from New School for Social Research in NYC. Al McFarlane: What is the Organizing Apprenticeship Project?

Jermaine Toney: We work to reduce racial and economic and cultural inequities by training and building community leaders. We also do it by strategic convening: bringing people together to advance justice work. We also do it through policy research tools like the Minnesota Legislative Report

transit improvements in the I-35W and Cedar Avenue corridors.

However, we’ve also worked very hard to ensure that our system is as efficient and cost-effective as possible.

Our transit system compares very well with peer systems around the country, as shown by a new report compiled by our transportation staff.

The performance evaluation report, required by state law, compares our transit system with 11 others – including Baltimore, Dallas, Denver, Milwaukee, Portland, Seattle and St. Louis.

Here are a few key findings: The ridership of our system grew by 17 percent during the period 2005 to 2008, compared with 8.5 percent for our 11 peers.

Our system’s operating costs – adjusted for inflation – increased by 7.4 percent during this period, compared with 12.1 percent for our peers.

Our farebox recovery rate – the percentage of operating costs covered by fares – ranked third highest in 2008 among the 12 systems examined.

Our subsidy per passenger in

2008 averaged $2.61, compared with $3.24 for our peers.

In other words, our ridership is growing faster, our service is more efficient and it requires a lower subsidy per passenger than most of our peers.

One place where we lag a little is in the amount of transit service we offer. Our system provides 19.9 miles of transit service per capita, putting us in sixth place among the 12 regions studied and just below the peer average (20.7).

However, we hope to improve in is this area as we continue to expand

our bus system, and develop our network of rail and bus transitways.

On May 26, the Council will be acting on a recommendation from Hennepin County that we move forward with our third light rail line in the Southwest Corridor between downtown Minneapolis and Eden Prairie. The 14-mile line would connect with our other rail lines at the inter-modal station near Target Field.

When this rail line is completed, we will have nearly 130 miles of transitways providing fast, hasslefree service in some of our most heavily traveled corridors.

Overall, the new report is a tribute to the outstanding performance of our staff at Metro Transit, Metro Mobility and our entire transportation services division.

Card on Racial Equity.

attention to Minnesota’s racial and economic inequities.

Studies coming out right now show that if we fail to address them we will undermine our future prosperity and future growth.

Criminal justice policy considerations led it to being the one of the best of sessions. One piece of legislation that the Legislature passed and the Governor signed looked at the high rate of juvenile incarceration.

Minnesota ranks eighth worst in the nation in terms of putting our kids in juvenile custody. But youth of color get placed in custody far more often even though the crimes they commit may be the same as white youth.

So one bill actually directs the state to look at this, discover what’s leading to these inequities and then make some recommendations to turn the situation around. This is huge in terms of addressing a racial disparity. It is a marker of progress towards racial equity.

Last session, Minnesota led the nation in putting forward

progressive legislation called Ban the Box. If you are seeking employment at a government agency and you have a prison/arrest record, you don’t have to disclose that in the job application. You have done your time and you want to get a job. You won’t be automatically excluded from the opportunity to interview for a job because you had to check the box that asked if you had arrests or imprisonment. This gives the job seeker the chance to advance to the interview before he or she has to disclose the criminal record. At least you have the opportunity to speak for yourself instead of being automatically disqualified because of your record.

of color who are released from prison have a vision of finding gainful employment. However, it is well publicized that the record of the formerly incarcerated has been a major barrier to employment.

While there has been movement at local levels of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, House File 1301 “bans the box” by removing questions about criminal records from all public employment applications until the person has received an interview.”

Jermaine Toney: Other states are looking to replicate this. But Minnesota is the first state in the country to ban the box.

Al McFarlane: What are your key findings in the report this year?

Jermaine Toney: Race matters and leadership for racial equity matters. Communities of color and low-income communities have been disproportionately hit during this recession.

The two big indicators of that are job loss and unequal treatment in foreclosure crisis.

Since 2007, communities of color and low-income communities across the state have lost jobs at a faster rate. We also see that the unequal treatment in mortgage landing led to some pretty nasty foreclosures that really hit hard in communities of color.

Given that backdrop we also know that our future prosperity requires that we pay special

Al McFarlane: What are the major categories and findings in this report?

Jermaine Toney: It’s a multi-issue, multi-racial assessment of the state legislature and Governor and their commitment to public policies and budget decisions that allow us to move forward. The report addresses racial disparity in education, in wealth building and economics, in health care, in criminal justice and civil rights.

There is a section on American Indian issues.

We found that it was the best of sessions and the worst of sessions.

Al McFarlane: According to the report, “one third of Minnesotans

(Peter Bell is chair of the Metropolitan Council, a 17-member body that oversees regional planning, transit, wastewater services, and regional parks and trails.)

Al McFarlane: You grade Minnesota’s Legislature in the area of Health Equity. What do you

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Insight News • May 3 - May 9, 2010 • Page 3

BUSINESS Work life boundaries: Nothing is personal Plan your career

By Julie Desmond julie@insightnews.com During busy season, Karen’s company keeps cots in a closet so employees can catch a nap while working all night on projects. Lea’s best friends are the people she works with. She doesn’t have time to forge

friendships anywhere else.

Spending forty or fifty hours a week with a group of people for months or years at a time, it seems natural that you would become friends, or even like family, after a while. But when is “close” too close? Where is the line between personal and professional, when you work alongside the same people day in and day out?

Religion and politics have long been taboo in the workplace. Yet, these topics are difficult to steer clear of because they often play a part in the news and TV shows we want to discuss, and because passion for a topic can override

good judgement. Use your own expectations to test whether to step into or walk away from a conversation. Inviting your coworkers to a concert at your church might be acceptable; expecting them to meditate with you in the break room is not.

When others cross that line, have a comment ready to use to excuse yourself. It can be simple, “I’d better get back to work.” Say it politely, and then reinforce that boundary by walking away.

Childcare issues are another delicate area. I have seen many managers make project and promotion decisions based on their perception of what

someone can handle, whether that perception is accurate or way off. When you are at work, everything is fine with the family. Remember that. And use your break or lunch hour to deal with family issues. If you are a single parent, find two or three back-up options for childcare so you can get to work when you need to.

If someone else in the office is giving too much information about their children or spouse, cut them off politely but with a simple statement such as, “You must be so proud of your little guy, but I’d better get back to my work.” The physical act of turning away will usually end

the conversation. It may seem rude; however, turning away often produces the surprising result of deference. When people know where your line is, they tend to respect it.

Disabilities, unrelated hobbies and salary issues are also off-limits, as is office gossip about employees not present. Assume that anything you say out loud in your workplace will be broadcast on speakers throughout the building because, often, that’s more or less what happens. Ask yourself, first, whether this conversation has anything to do with work and, second, is it a conversation you would gladly

share with everyone? If the answer to either question is no, walk away.

You want to be known at work for your professional accomplishments.

Keeping your personal life, well, personal, will help you avoid the misunderstandings and misconceptions that can send your day and your career careening off track.

Julie Desmond leads 21st Century Job Search workshops for Help Wanted! Workshop in Minneapolis. Send your career planning and job search questions to julie@insightnews.com.

US Census takers start visiting households The U.S. Census Bureau began “Non-Responsive Follow-Up” Operations on May 1st with the 28% of households in the U.S. who did not return their questionnaire by mail. Census takers will visit a household several times in an effort to get the basic information on the ten questions on the 2010 Census.

When a census taker visits a home, he or she will try to collect the information by interviewing an adult member

of the household. If a census taker cannot contact a household after repeated attempts, they will seek information in any way possible to estimate the number of people living in the home.

Dennis R. Johnson, Regional Director of the U.S. Census Bureau, stated, “I encourage the public to cooperate with census takers when they are working in your neighborhood. The 2010 Census is not yet completed and

this work is vital to our efforts to get a complete and accurate count of everyone living in your community.”

These follow-up operations will be conducted by official census takers. An official census taker must present an ID Badge with a Department of Commerce seal and expiration date; may be carrying a bag with a U.S. Census Bureau logo; will provide you with their supervisor’s phone number

and/or the local census office phone number for verification.

The 2010 Census is a huge undertaking that also provides temporary employment opportunities for local residents interested in working on the census. Census jobs offer good pay, flexible hours and paid training while performing an important public service. Best of all, those hired may work in their own community.

Census jobs are perfect

summer jobs for teachers, students (over 18-years-old), retirees, and just about anyone interested in earning some extra money. Interested applicants must be U.S. citizens, 18 years or older, have a valid Social Security Card, and be available to work 20 to 40 hours a week.

Applicants must take a basic skills test and pass a background check.

Interested persons should call 1-866-861-2010 to find out how and where to apply

for a job working on the 2010 Census.

The 2010 Census is an actual count of everyone living in the United States and it is mandated by the U.S. Constitution.

Census data is used to allocate congressional seats to the states and to distribute more than $400 billion in federal funds to tribal, state and local governments each year.

Understanding Medicare a complicated process

By Jason Alderman Most people are somewhat familiar with Medicare, since it’s likely they or a family member are already covered by the governmentprovided health insurance program.

But with its alphabet soup of options and complex rules, Medicare can be daunting to the uninitiated.

If you’re approaching 65, here are some Medicare basics you’ll need to know: Medicare provides benefits to people age 65 and older and those under 65 with certain disabilities or end-stage renal disease. Most people’s initial enrollment period is

Rail From 1 North; turn east on Olson Highway and stop at Van White Boulevard; then connect with the light rail line downtown Minneapolis.

There are a few sub-

the seven months beginning three months before the month they turn 65. If you miss that window, you may enroll between January 1 and March 31 each year, with coverage beginning July 1.

Medicare offers numerous plans and coverage options, including: Part A helps cover in-patient hospital, nursing facility and hospice services, and home health care. Most people pay no monthly premium and are automatically enrolled upon turning 65, or after receiving Social Security disability benefits for 24 months.

Part B helps cover doctor’s services, outpatient care and some preventive services. It’s optional

and has a monthly premium. Most people are automatically enrolled at the same time as Part A. To opt out, follow the instructions that accompanied your Medicare card (mailed about three months before your 65th birthday). Weigh opting out carefully because there’s often a sizeable penalty if you enroll later, unless you’re currently covered by an employer’s plan.

Part C (Medicare Advantage) plans are privately run HMO or PPO Medicare plans that provide coverage similar to Parts A and B, but may also include additional benefits such as prescription drugs, dental and vision coverage. In exchange for lower out-of-pocket costs and additional benefits, you’re

alternatives along Penn if this route is chosen. The rail could either be placed on the east side of Penn with one-way traffic on both Penn and Oliver Avenues in the center of Penn so there still would be two-way traffic, or have the rail on Oliver.

The second main alternative would mainly follow Olson;

stopping at Golden Valley Road, Penn, and Van White; then head downtown. This route has a higher potential ridership from suburban commuters but bypasses North Minneapolis.

There is also in the making a high speed train line that would make about a three and a half hour trip between Minneapolis and Chicago, IL. Hennepin County must compete for federal funding with other rail projects across the country. The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) takes into account several factors when deciding where to allocate tax-payer funding.

Ratings are based on many criteria such as cost effectiveness, the economic development effects of such a project, environmental benefits, and whether the local government can match the funding that the FTA provides.

Hennepin County is planning on obtaining local funds through the sales tax. Without federal funding, or if there are too many delays, the Bottineau Transitway project will not happen.

By 2012, Hennepin County hopes to be moving into the next stage of development where a detailed environmental study must be conducted in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) before preliminary design and engineering can begin. The study will look at factors such as pollution prevention and energy efficiency, habitat and wetland impacts, and the effects on minority and low-income communities.

The Southwest Transitway is currently undergoing the NEPA study. This proposed light rail line will serve Minneapolis, St. Louis Park, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Edina, and Hopkins.

Preliminary design plans will include detailed cost estimates, property impacts, zoning changes, and station area plans.

The Central Corridor Light Rail, which will travel between

usually required to use the plan’s provider network, which may be more restrictive than providers you could access through regular Parts A and B. Part D helps cover prescription drugs. It’s optional and carries a monthly premium. These privately run plans vary widely in terms of cost and medications covered. As with Part B, you may be charged a late-enrollment penalty if you don’t sign up when first eligible and later decide to enroll. If you’re in a Part C plan with drug coverage, you don’t need Part D. Many people purchase additional Medigap (or Medicare Supplemental) insurance, which is offered by private insurers and

follows strict government coverage guidelines. Medigap helps pay for many items not covered by Medicare, including deductibles, copayments, coinsurance and, sometimes, coverage when traveling abroad.

Medigap coverage is already included in Part C Medicare Advantage plans; plus some employers and unions offer it to their retirees. Medigap plans can vary widely in terms of cost, covered benefits and states participating so compare your options carefully.

Understanding and choosing the right Medicare options for your individual situation can be a complicated process. For assistance,

State Rep. Bobby Joe Champion downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul along University and Washington Aves, is entering the final design stage before construction begins. Champion cited the ‘Stops for Us Campaign’ composed of community members along the central section of the line. The central section goes through low-income areas and its stops were one-mile apart. The stops everywhere else along the line were less than a half of a mile. “[It was community outcry that was] able to influence the final

decision to add three more stops,” Champion said.

Professional Engineer Joseph Gladke, Manager of Engineering and Transit Planning at Hennepin County Housing, Community Works and Transit, also says that “there are no final decisions [regarding the Bottineau Transitway].”

Hennepin County hopes to move the Bottineau Transitway into the final design stage in 2014. This is when Hennepin County will begin property

call 1-800-633-4227 or visit www.medicare.gov, where you’ll find: Helpful publications, including “Medicare & You 2010” Tools to compare prescription drug plans, hospitals, nursing homes and Medigap plans in your area A resource to find local doctors and other health practitioners who participate in Medicare Services covered by various Medicare plans Enrollment instructions.

Jason Alderman directs Visa’s financial education programs. Sign up for his free monthly e-Newsletter at www.practicalmoneyskills.com/newsl etter.

Suluki Fardan

acquisition and relocation assistance, begin infrastructure investments, and will plan the construction phases.

By 2016, Hennepin County hopes to begin the construction of the Bottineau Transitway. It will work to maintain business and residential access and hopes the line will be completed in 2019.

For information on attending a Residents Group Transportation Meeting, email Joan@MetroStability.org.

Page 4 • May 3 - May 9, 2010 • Insight News

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EDUCATION Admission Possible seniors set the pace in scholarships When Cooper High School senior Samuel Ogunyemi opened his mailbox last week, what he found was a free ride to college. Ogunyemi, who has been participating in Admission Possible’s free after school college prep program for the past two years, is one of 20 Minnesota high school seniors to receive the Gates Millennium Scholarship.

The award, supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, covers all expenses for an undergraduate degree at the college or university of the recipients’ choice, and even the cost of a doctorate degree in some fields of study.

When he opened the letter, Ogunyemi was overwhelmed.

“It said, ‘Congratulations, Samuel,’” he recalls. “I said ‘wow’ for at least 30 minutes.

Just ‘wow’ over and over. I showed my mom, and she was jumping up and down. It felt good.”

Originally from Nigeria, Ogunyemi moved to Minnesota when he was 10. “My parents wanted me and my brother and sister to get an education in the Unites States,” he said. “They said if you get a degree here, you can go anywhere in the whole world.”

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Insight News is published weekly, every Monday by McFarlane Media Interests.

Editor-In-Chief Al McFarlane CFO Adrianne Hamilton-Butler Publisher Batala-Ra McFarlane Associate Editor & Associate Publisher B.P. Ford Vice President of Sales & Marketing Selene White Director of Content & Production Patricia Weaver Sr. Content & Production Coordinator Elliot Stewart-Franzen Web Design & Content Associate Ben Williams Distribution/Facilities Manager Jamal Mohamed Receptionist Lue B. Lampley Contributing Writers Brenda Colston Julie Desmond Marcia Humphrey Alaina L. Lewis Rashida McKenzie Ryan T. Scott Lydia Schwartz Stacey Taylor Photography Suluki Fardan Tobechi Tobechukwu Contact Us: Insight News, Inc. Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Ave. N. MinneAPOlis., MN 55411 Ph.: (612) 588-1313 Fax: (612) 588-2031 Member: Minnesota Multicultural Media Consortium (MMMC) Midwest Black Publishers Coalition, Inc. (MBPCI) National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) Postmaster: Send address changes to McFarlane Media Interests, Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55411.

When he arrived, Ogunyemi’s elementary school classmates had a hard time understanding his English, so he decided not to talk at school for three months and to just listen. He avidly watched children’s programming like “Arthur” and “Teletubbies” and practiced English on his own.

At the end of the school year, he spoke again. “I made three friends the last month of school,” Ogunyemi said. “I learned by just listening.”

In high school, Ogunyemi’s friends encouraged him to join Admission Possible with them.

“I’m glad I joined Admission Possible because it pushed me to apply for more scholarships and taught me more about college,” Ogunyemi said. In Admission Possible after school sessions, he worked on applying for the Gates Scholarship, setting goals to complete sections of the 22page application one at a time, including each of the eight essay questions.

Ogunyemi plans to attend North Dakota State University this fall and major in mechanical or electrical engineering or both. He wants to be a robotics engineer and plans to take advantage of the Gates Scholarship to go on to graduate school. “I’m just counting the days until college.

I’m pretty excited.”

This year, Admission Possible students make up half of Minnesota’s Gates Millennium Scholarship winners, bringing the total

Samuel Ogunyemi and Admission Possible coach Ryan Rassmussen number of Admission Possible Students who have won the award since its beginning to 28.

Each one of the more than 600

current Admission Possible seniors has worked diligently to complete scholarship applications. The students have been awarded more than 100 scholarships to date, including the nationally recognized Horatio Alger Scholarship.

“Paying for college can be an overwhelming obstacle for high school seniors, and especially for low-income students,” said Jim McCorkell, Admission Possible CEO and founder. “Scholarships are one more step toward making college possible for our students. For our students to win such prestigious awards is an honor not only for them but also for Admission Possible.”

Last year’s Admission

Possible seniors won more than $2.9 million in scholarships, an average of more than $4,650 per student. The approximate average unmet need for lowincome students is $4,000, as reported by the college access newsletter Postsecondary Education Opportunity, so for many Admission Possible students, scholarships help them overcome the financial obstacle college presents.

Helping students secure financial aid is a core piece of Admission Possible’s mission.

The AmeriCorps coaches who work with seniors in the program help students complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) process and identify private

Courtesy of Admission Possible

scholarships to which they can apply. The Admission Possible after-school curriculum for seniors includes lessons on how to compare financial aid packages offered from different institutions and the differences in forms of financial aid ranging from loans to grants.

In addition to national scholarships, Admission Possible students apply to many state and local opportunities.

Thirty-one of the 42 Horatio Alger scholarships awarded in Minnesota - made possible by the Carl & Eloise Pohlad Family Foundation - went to Admission Possible seniors.

Six students earn Gates scholarships Six Minneapolis Public Schools students were among 1,000 scholars nationwide selected as the recipients of good-throughgraduation college scholarships from the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Gates Millennium Scholars (GMS) Program. Fadumo Abdullahi and Abdullahi Ali of Edison High School and Doua Kha, Mai Vang, Soua Chang and Susan Vang of Patrick Henry High School will receive scholarships that can be used to pursue degrees in any undergraduate major at the college or university of the recipients’ choice. The Class of 2010 Gates Millennium Scholars represent 45 states, the District of Columbia and three U.S. territories: American Samoa, Federated States of Micronesia and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Established in 1999 with the goal of developing the next generation of America’s leaders, UNCF’s Gates Millennium Scholars Program is funded by a $1.6 billion grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates

Foundation. To date, over 13,000 students have received GMS scholarships, attending more than 1,500 schools, including Ivy League colleges, flagship state universities and UNCF member historically black colleges (HBCUs).

In addition to financial assistance, Gates Millennium Scholars receive academic support, mentoring and leadership training. As a result, recipients have an average fiveyear graduation rate of almost 80 percent, 45 percent higher than the six-year rate for all college students.

“The 20,000 young men and women who will attend college as Gates Millennium Scholars will make a major contribution to helping the United States fulfill President Obama’s goal of regaining for America world leadership in the proportion of citizens with college degrees,” said Michael L. Lomax, Ph. D., UNCF President and CEO. “The Gates Millennium Scholars Program is an investment in both the futures of these students and the

country’s economic and social strength and competitiveness.”

UNCF’s management of the Gates Millennium Scholars Program is a partnership with the American Indian Graduate Center Scholars (AIGCS), the Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF) and the Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund (APIASF) to serve Gates Millennium Scholars in all fifty states, the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Federated States of Micronesia, Guam, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

“Of all the ways to increase opportunities for lower-income youth, education is the most important,” said Margaret Daniels Tyler, Senior Program Officer at the Gates Foundation.

“By supporting a diverse cadre of students to earn their degrees, we can help develop the next generation of leaders in communities across the country.

That is what the Gates Millennium Scholars Program is all about.”

Rotary Club partners with Friendship Academy of Fine Arts Read-aa-TThon For one week in mid-March, the Minneapolis South Rotary Club supported Friendship Academy of Fine Arts in its annual ReadA-Thon. FAFA, located at 2600 E. 38th Street, conducted the event during the week of March 8- 12 at the school.

Members of the Minneapolis South Rotary Club volunteered hours of their time to read to children in various classrooms.

Club members, Jesse Lee, Ethel Lee Norwood, and Karin Treiber, club president, developed a project to fund awards for the three classrooms and the three students that achieved the highest reading

goals during the week-long program.

FAFA Administrator, Ethel Lee Norwood, expressed the views of the teachers, parents, and students in her comment, “The 2010 Read-a-Thon was a great success. The winning students and classrooms are so appreciative of the books they were able to purchase with gift certificates from the Minneapolis South Rotary Club.”

Presently, the FAFA does not have a library to serve its 150 students in grades K-6.

Consequently the Minneapolis South Rotary Club applied for

and received a Rotary International Community Assistance Grant in the amount of $500 to assist individual classrooms in enhancing the collection of books for the students in these classes and to present individual awards to students so they can build their home libraries.

Rotary International is a worldwide organization of community-based, serviceminded volunteers who work on literacy, hunger, water-safety, and other needs.

insightnews.com

Insight News • May 3 - May 9, 2010 • Page 5

AESTHETICS Book review: “The Other Wes Moore: One Name, Two Fates” Book Review

By Kam Williams “This is the story of two boys living in Baltimore with similar histories and an identical name: Wes Moore. One of us is free and has experienced things that he never knew to dream about as a kid. The other will spend every day until his death behind bars for an armed robbery that left a police officer and father of five dead.

The chilling truth is that his story could have been mine. The tragedy is that my story could have been his. Our stories are obviously specific to our two lives, but I hope they will illuminate the crucial inflection points in every life, the sudden moments of decision where our paths diverge and our fates are sealed...

It is my sincere hope that this book does not come across as self-congratulatory or selfexculpatory… Rather, this book will use our lives as a way of thinking about choices and accountability, not just for each of us as individuals, but for all of us as a society.

This book is meant to show how, for those of us who live in the most precarious places in this country, our destinies can be determined by a single stumble down the wrong path, or a tentative step down the right one. This is our story.”

— Excerpted from the Introduction (pgs. xi-xiv) In December of 2000, Wes Moore saw his name in the newspaper when the Baltimore Sun ran a blurb about how he’d

just been awarded a prestigious Rhodes scholarship to do post graduate work at Oxford. But overshadowing that brief mention of him as a “local product done good” was a sensational, front-page story about a brother with the identical name who had been arrested for shooting a police officer to death during the aftermath of a botched armed robbery of a jewelry store.

Wes Moore, the college grad, was struck by the coincidence and wondered exactly what set of circumstances might have led his namesake to commit such a heinous act for the sake of some bling. After all, he knew at the very least that they were both young African American males from the city of Baltimore. He continued to be nagged by that curiosity to the point that when he returned from England a couple of years later, he decided to contact Wes the lesser, now a convicted murderer serving a life sentence without the possibility of parole.

An exchange of correspondence led to a series of face-to-face visits, and the two forged an enduring friendship, since they had a lot in common, their contrasting fates notwithstanding. As it turned out, they had both been raised by a single mothers in a rough neighborhood where they had frequent run-ins with the police.

Both had also dropped out of school to hang out on the street corners with a fast crowd. But where one Wes would benefit from an intervention that would send him to military school for a serious attitude readjustment, the other, in the absence of a mentor, was simply allowed to slip between the cracks.

Their parallel and ultimately sharply diverging paths in life are recounted in fascinating fashion in The Other Wes Moore, as engaging, illuminating and touching a

memoir as one could hope to encounter. Studiously avoiding the temptation to put on any “holier than thou” airs, the author instead altruistically embraces a “There but for fortune” tone, suggesting that he and his jailed alter ego’s lots could just as easily have been reversed.

Wes even goes out of his way to pay tribute to the slain police officer who left behind a widow and kids. “Let me be clear,” he writes, emphasizing the point that any empathy for the other Wes Moore “is not meant in any way to provide excuses… The only victims that day were Sergeant Bruce Prothero and his family.”

This imperceptiblyinterwoven double-biography is a brilliant primer on the discouraging odds of making it out of the average, inner city ghetto nowadays. For those unforgiving environs remain likely to prune the potential of any misguided, unprotected or impressionable youngster unfortunate enough to take even one false step en route to adulthood.

The Other Wes Moore: One Name, Two Fates

by Wes Moore Spiegel & Grau Hardcover, $25.00 252 pages, Illustrated

Author Wes Moore

Courtesy Random House

Black Film Festival is platform for independent filmmakers

Joseph Nevels

Photo courtesy TCBFF

On Saturday May 8, Minneapolis’ own Fine Line Music Café is getting a Hollywood makeover with an East Coast twist, by hosting a Fashion Show Fundraiser to benefit the 8th Annual Twin Cities Black Film Festival scheduled for this October 15th – 17th.

TCBFF, founded in 2002 by Natalie Morrow, was created to give Independent African American filmmakers a platform to showcase their work within the community while providing opportunities for national exposure. The organization is also responsible for splicing the flair and magnetism of urban Hollywood with our upper Midwest flavor, to narrow the gap between tinsel town and our own backyard.

Apart from the annual Film Festival, through Morrow’s work with the TCBFF, Minneapolis has been fortunate enough to attend a multitude of

premiere events hosted by the company, that celebrate African Americans in motion picture, literary and performing arts.

In the past, the events/workshops held by Morrow have been occasionally hosted by a celebrity guest speaker. Prior keynotes have included Hill Harper, Nate Parker, and many others. The events, which vary in design, can be as relaxing as a preview screening of a film, a book signing, to last year’s Madea Rally at the Favor Café on Lake Street, which was organized by Morrow and Lionsgate Films to promote the opening of Tyler Perry’s Madea Goes to Jail.

All the events, although individually packaged to promote a single cause, work in unison to provide an overall excellence; the importance of exposing the Twin Cities to positive dimensions of African Americans in the arts.

This year’s Hollywood

Fashion Show will be hosted by Essence Magazine’s April “Eye Candy,” Joseph Nevels. The event is sponsored by Jay Z’s Rocawear Clothing Company, and will feature the entire line as it makes its way down the runway. Other sponsors include Juicy Couture, Aveda and more.

Tickets are priced at $20 per person. VIP tickets are $50, which include a gift bag, preferred seating, movie passes to Death at a Funeral, and a Meet and Greet with Mr. April himself, Joseph Nevels.

Supporting this Fundraiser aids the Twin Cities in having that continued voice in a very vocal industry.

TCBFF continues to deliver the message, and it is up to answer the call. … especially the call for fashion.

For more information/tickets, please visit www.tcbff.com or call (612) 309-3818.

Page 6 • May 3 - May 9, 2010 • Insight News

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HEALTH African American men: Health, family and self

By Abdullah Jones Press Associate Men’s Health Network The Office of Minority Health (OMH), a division of the Department of Health and Human Services, has put men at the heart of National Minority Health Month.

At their Fatherhood and Men’s Health Forum on Sunday, April 18 – held at Busboys and Poets in Washington, DC – the panelists used four words to articulate the role of men: provide, nurture, guide and protect.

But what happens when young boys are raised in a community where there are few responsible men who present a positive way of life for the boys to follow?

Several key issues were discussed, from the man’s perception of health to the grandmother’s role as the matriarch of the family.

The events moderator was Attorney Tonya Lee Lewis, the spokesperson for “A Healthy Baby Begins with You� campaign. She stated that the goal of Sunday’s forum was not

to criticize men for what they don’t do. It was a chance for those who attended to share information. “I certainly love my Black men and I’m trying to help them as I help myself.� said Lewis.

Dr. Garth Graham, the deputy assistant secretary at OMH, established the connection between health and the longevity of life early in the discussion.

If people are doing meaningful work and have access to health insurance, their perception of health will change, according to Dr. Willie J. Parker. As a result, they will be more productive and able to contribute rather than cost society. “When people are healthy they can be more selfdetermined,� said Parker.

According to statistics obtained from OMH’s website, African Americans have a higher risk than Caucasians of being diagnosed with or dying from any of the top health threats. For instance, they are twice as likely of being diagnosed with diabetes and 33 percent more likely of dying

from all types of cancer.

On the topic of youth violence, Parker stated that the youth feel as though they aren’t important so they act out violently – even sexually.

That feeling of inadequacy is only one example of the stress that affects the mental health of the African-American community. “We’re seeing the outcome of some internalized negative valuation,� said Parker.

According to Dr. Jermaine Bond, a research associate at the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies, the media doesn’t help the youth develop a positive self image by regularly showing negative images of African Americans.

About single mothers, Roland Warren, the president of the National Fatherhood Initiative, believes single mothers can raise responsible men – but they shouldn’t have to.

He also pointed out that many grandmothers (mostly the mothers of men) don’t have access to their grandchildren.

Therefore, if young mothers want access to their children’s children when they grow older,

the need to understand that the type of father their son(s) become is connected to their knowledge of what it means to be a father.

During the question and answer component of the forum, an anthropologist and representative for her mentor who is a professor at the University of Maryland, stood up to contribute to the discussion.

She said that family law judges need to be trained to deal with young, African American males – since so many are seen before the courts repeatedly, and so many are fathers. Instead of sentencing them to time away from their children, they should be sentenced to parenting classes.

This event is being followed by another forum at Hue-Man Bookstore & CafĂŠ in New York City.

This years National Minority Health Month was dedicated to men. OMH wants men to “Man Up for Your Health� because “Healthy Men Move Our Communities Forward.

Leroy Skalstad

Projects aiding the poor strengthen mentoring ties Participants in the Big Brothers Big Sisters “Beyond School

Walls� program will donate 18 hand-made blankets to

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homeless families and their children at People Serving People in Minneapolis. As part of a service learning project, mentors (Bigs) from Comcast and mentees (Littles) gathered at the KIPP: Stand Academy to create tie quilts from fleece donated by Comcast’s St. Paul headquarters.

After working together to create the blankets, Bigs and Littles participated in a scavenger hunt for which they researched local homeless

shelters to learn about the services they provide, who they serve, and what their mission is.

Using the information they learned, the group voted on which shelter would receive their donation. “My Little Brother Bennett and I shared a very rewarding experience completing the tie quilt project,� said Comcast Big Brother Jeremy. “It took us a few sessions to complete, but as we wrapped up the final ties on the blanket, I could really sense

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craft activity!� “These blankets will be given to homeless families who often are able to fit all of their personal items into one garbage bag. They don’t have many personal belongings.

A handmade quilt can be very comforting and is something they can take with them when they move into a home of their own. On behalf of the families and children at PSP, we are grateful for this donation from Big Brothers Big Sisters and Comcast,� said Jim Minor, President and CEO of People Serving People. “I thought it was kind of cool. I never did anything like that before. I think it’s nice for them to have something to sleep with,� said Little Sister Ta’Nysha. When asked what it was like working on a service project with her Big Sister, she said, “It makes me feel like she’s actually my big sister. I’m not around my real big sister much. The program makes me feels safe.�

Elevating our voices in health disparities research

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The University of Minnesota’s Distinguished Visiting Scholar Series on Health Disparities Research will feature Barbara Israel, DrPH, Professor of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, and Angela Reyes, MPH, Executive Director of the Detroit Hispanic Development Corporation, in a forum Tuesday, May 11 from 12:001:00 p.m. in room 2-530 Moos Tower on the University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus.

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that Bennett felt proud of sticking to it and completing the project with a little grit and determination. We both felt good that we were able to complete something we hadn’t done before and knowing that it was going to someone who could benefit from it made it that much more enjoyable.� “It was about donating to homeless people because that’s what God would have wanted me to do!� said Little Brother Ben. During this service learning project, several of the Littles were able to share their personal experiences with shelters and talk to their Bigs about the support their families received and about the great work they do in the community. “His desire to share this [information] with me demonstrated that these organizations have a greater impact than you can put in to words,� continued Big Brother Jeremy. “It also showed that making a blanket with someone can serve as more than just a

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The Distinguished Visiting Scholar Series on Health Disparities Research is sponsored by the University of Minnesota Medical School’s Program in Health Disparities Research, and Center for Health Equity, and the School of Public Health’s Health Disparities Work Group.

For further information: TEL: (612) 626-9192 or online at www.healthdisparities.umn.edu

insightnews.com

Insight News • May 3 - May 9, 2010 • Page 7

Amhearst Wilder Neighborhood leadership program graduates 32

Courtesy NLP

NLP program participants. Top: Nell Goepel, Brian Hubbard, Rob Barbosa, Nilka Betharte, and Lily Moya. Bottom: Sandy’Ci Moua, Elise Peterson, Luisa Ortega Castrellon, and Alissa Grier.

On Monday, April 26, the Amherst H. Wilder Foundation’s Neighborhood Leadership Program (NLP) will graduate 32 students from its 2009-10 program. The event, to be held at Wilder Center, 451 Lexington Parkway North, in Saint Paul, will feature a reception at 5:30 pm with the program beginning at 6:30 pm. Saint Paul Chief of Police John Harrington will offer the keynote address, and Alicia Huckleby, Saint Paul Public Housing Agency (PHA), will also offer remarks.

“In a world that is networked and where our relationships define our roles, we must have all hands pushing and pulling together for progress to be made,” said Harrington. “The NLP brings residents from various neighborhoods together where skills and relationships develop into positive social change.”

Harrington joined the St. Paul Police Department in 1977 and during his tenure has held various roles in the department, including as its Chief since 2004. Through different programs and initiatives Harrington has created a greater sense of community and a reduced crime rate for the city.

Huckleby, PHA Recovery Act Coordinator, said “The Wilder Neighborhood Leadership Program graduates leaders who understand that cohesive leadership and responsiveness to change is at its most effective when guided by the voices of the community.”

The 32 NLP graduates represent the various cultural and geographic neighborhoods in the St. Paul area, bringing the multifaceted, diverse community together to have a clear representation of the city.

Participants have spent six months in the intensive NLP, which works on the premise that authentic leadership and active neighborhood involvement emerges from visions for positive change.

The NLP focuses on Saint Paul’s core, urban neighborhoods and provides participants leadership skills with the intent of strengthening community through a healthy infrastructure of services and

businesses, ethical leadership, effective local organizations and active citizen participation.

“The people who participate in NLP are individuals committed to creating a strong and vibrant Saint Paul,” said Kate Kelsch, NLP Program Manager.

“Through participation in the program they gain skills, connections and personal insight. Each year the NLP group is unique, drawing from

different parts of the city and its diverse cultural groups.”

Approximately 500 individuals from many of Saint Paul’s neighborhoods have participated in the program since its inception fifteen years ago.

For questions about the Wilder Neighborhood Leadership Programs, call (651) 280-2457 or e-mail NLP@wilder.org.

For over 80 years, Hallie Q. Brown has been the Lighthouse of the Community...

...this is why we shine so bright.

Andrew Velasquez named FEMA regional administrator

File Photo

Andrew Velasquez III

WASHINGTON - President Obama’s has appointed Andrew Velasquez III as Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Regional Administrator for Region V, which encompasses Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin.

“Regional Administrators are crucial to our ability to respond effectively to emergencies based on the needs of the communities we serve,” said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate.

“Andrew Velasquez is not only an experienced emergency manager with deep roots in the region, but also a dedicated public servant.

His knowledge and experience make him uniquely qualified to help lead our efforts there.”

Velasquez has served as Director of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) and

DFL From 1 Rybak, State Sen. John Marty, State Rep. Paul Thissen, Mayor Chris Coleman, DFL Chair Brian Melendez, and DFL Associate Chair Donna Cassutt. We’re visiting Bloomington, Mankato, Rochester and Morehead today and we’ll be criss-crossing the state visiting other communities in the coming weeks,” she said.

She added: “the Pawlenty administration has been devastating for so many Minnesotans. It is so critical that we put a DFLer back in the governor’s office this year.”

Republicans this week will decide who will be their endorsed candidate for the August Primary.

State Homeland Security Advisor since 2007, and prior to that was Executive Director of Chicago’s Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC).

As Director of IEMA Velasquez directed the response and recovery effort of more than 100 Illinois counties declared State disaster areas. He has also served as the state coordinating officer and the governor’s authorized representative for eight presidential disaster declarations.

A native of Chicago, Velasquez was appointed Executive Director of the city’s Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) in 2005 after serving in the Chicago Police Department in various capacities for ten years. He was also a member of the U.S. Army Reserve for a total of six years.

Velasquez serves on the Board of Directors for the Central United States Earthquake Consortium (CUSEC) and was chairman of the response committee for the Governor’s Campus Safety Task Force (CSTF), which was formed after the Virginia Tech shootings.

Velasquez holds a Bachelor’s degree and a Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Illinois State University. He also received a Master of Business Administration in Management from Saint Xavier University.

In 2009, Mr. Velasquez completed the Executive Leadership program at the Naval Post Graduate School - Center for Homeland Defense and Security.

The Hallie Q. Brown Early Learning Center is currently accepting applications for enrollment.

We are a licensed daycare and preschool program with a 4 Star Parent Aware rating. We feature licensed and trained staff, Project Early Kindergarten (PEK) curriculum and a sliding fee scale. We gladly accept Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) Contact us today for a tour and more information.

Hallie Q. Brown Community Center 270 N. Kent Street St. Paul, MN 55102 651-224-4601 www.hallieqbrown.org

Page 8 • May 3 - May 9, 2010 • Insight News

insightnews.com

LIFESTYLE Got good insurance? You need to fully understand your policy Style on a dime

By Marcia Humphrey Last week I was involved in a car accident. Thank God, no one was hurt; only my pride. See the accident was my fault. Once I made sure the passengers in the other car were fine, we immediately pulled out paper and pens to exchange insurance information. The young lady commented, “I sure am glad you have insurance.”

“Yes, I have good insurance,” I replied. Or so I thought. Little did I know that my insurance was not “all that.”

This experience taught me a valuable lesson; I need to fully understand the type of insurance we have and the details of the coverage provided. Long story short, we were not happy with the way our insurance company seemed to be trying to avoid paying a fair settlement to the other

OAP From 2

party. We try to always treat people the way we want to be treated, and we did not find their actions acceptable.

Do you have good health and life insurance?? What about the coverage on your car, home, or apartment?? Have you read the fine print lately?? Here are some money-saving tips and questions to ask your agent to determine if you actually have good insurance coverage.

Always negotiate your auto insurance claim.

Auto insurance companies almost always try to give you the least amount of money they can. In my case, instead of completely addressing the damage I caused to the other vehicle, they wanted to pay a discounted portion of the claim since the other car was not in perfect condition. In my eyes, that was wrong, and I immediately called my insurance company. At the conclusion of my conversation with one of the managers, he commented, “I have never had a customer advocate for the other party in this way.” It’s always right to do the right thing. You sleep better at night and God’s blessing flow upon your life.

What’s Your Deductible Amount? The same week I had

my accident, my girlfriend had an accident of her own. A super tall tree fell in her backyard, destroying their fence, tearing the pool cover, and barely missing the house. She and her kids watched it happen and just stood there in disbelief. She was shocked to find out that the deductible on their homeowner’s insurance was several thousand dollarsprobably close to the amount it will cost to repair everything.

At least annually, you should review the terms and conditions of your insurance, so you won’t be surprised later. Weigh your options carefully and pick the one that fits best with your current situation.

Smokers’ life and health insurance policies will usually cost more. Want to save money on this type of insurance?

Consider kicking the habit.

Some health insurance policies even offer a discount to those who maintain a healthy lifestyle by going to the gym at least 12 times per month. Also, if you are going to buy life insurance, do it while you are young, otherwise you will pay big bucks when you get older.

Buy insurance from a reputable company. While I

love a bargain, one of the things you can’t skimp on is a reliable insurance company. When shopping for insurance do your research; compare prices and check the company’s rating with the Better Business Bureau.

Consider starting off with www.Progressive.com. They were rated the #1 insurance website for 2009 (and I get tickled every time I see Flo, the lady on their commercials). And whatever you do, get grownpeople insurance, so you can be in “good hands” (hear the deep, comforting voice of that handsome brother from the All State commercial).

The way I see it —insurance works great as long as you never need to use it. Call your agent this week to review your policy details and ask any questions you may have. That way, you won’t be caught off guard if you are ever involved in an accident. When you do need to file a claim, remember that you have rights, so do not be intimated by the process.

Communicate your questions and concerns professionally, (resist the urge to cuss somebody out-it rarely produces a favorable outcome) and keep speaking to the next layer of

mean by that?

Jermaine Toney: This is a great state to live in, health wise, but communities of color aren’t sharing in that success. A bill Minnesota enacted into law expands access to health care to

22,000 more poor kids, disproportionately kids of color who are more likely to face poverty and unemployment. This bill says, “Hey! We are going to step up and cover you”, so that’s remarkable progress.

illness may trigger interventions that are more expensive than proactive measures.

The report says that “since 2001, we have made some progress in decreasing disparities. Infant motility rates have declined for all groups with decreases ranging from 26 to 75% for Minnesota people of color and American Indians. Disparities in death from heart disease have decreased for Blacks by 94%. While heart disease remains a challenge for Asian Pacific Islanders and Latinos, there are no visible disparities. And despite progress, stark health disparities remain in health status, life expectancy and quality of life for people of color and American Indians compared to whites. “ And broad race categories often obscure underline in equities

Al McFarlane: Your report says that Minnesota tops the nation’s charts on health indicators, at the same time Minnesota is home to some of the widest inequities among whites and people of color and American Indians.

Minnesotans of color are more likely to face premature death, poor quality of life, disease and illness compared to their white counterparts; racial inequities in health are heavy in cost; they cost lives and millions of dollars.

Poorly, managed chronic illness inequitable treatment or persistent

www.kopecinsurance.com

management, until a suitable resolution is reached.

As for how my situation ended, after about three lengthy phone calls, I was finally able to convince my insurer to review their initial assessment, and they came back with a more favorable settlement, which allowed for the other car to be

taken care of properly-like it should have been. Drive Safely.

Enjoy!

in health such as those that exist within Minnesota’s Asian Pacific Islander communities. Our health policies,” your report says “must build on the progress especially as we head into the next decade with populations of color, new Minnesotan’s and American Indians continuing to shift the face of health care.”

Jermaine Toney: The Closing Inequities through Healthy Communities initiative allows those who are most impacted by health inequities to work with governmental bodies to close the gaps.

payments. Now, that money is already claimed by certain players and is that part of the problem; that programs already in place are used to those revenue streams didn’t want to allow those revenue streams to be diverted to new uses?

Jermaine Toney Well going down that street wasn’t a priority for the Legislature and it didn’t become law. We were looking at racial inequities and here is a proactive piece of legislation that could help turn it around. Now, we have to look to the future hoping for progress and make sure that dollars step behind really good policies with vision of turning around the racial disparities.

Al McFarlane: It seems like part of the challenge was money. This act in particular called for funding of organizations that would be coming from a sustainable pool probably from the annual tobacco

Marcia Humphrey is an interior decorator and home stager who specializes in achieving high style at low costs. A native of Michigan, she and her husband, Lonnie, have three children.

For more information on OAP, www.oaproject.org or (612) 7464224.

insightnews.com

Insight News • May 3 - May 9, 2010 • Page 9

COMMENTARY Regulate health premiums or reform benefits will be lost to many

By Judge Greg Mathis The President and Congress successfully overhauled the healthcare system in a major way, making it possible for nearly four million Americans to get needed healthcare insurance.

Despite this great – and historical – news, more work remains. One of the remaining obstacles we have to overcome is making sure health insurers

can’t raise their premiums by an exorbitant amount. Without oversight on this front, the benefits of the healthcare bill will be lost to many.

Insurer Anthem Blue Cross in California plans to raise its insurance premiums by 39percent, a move that has many customers on edge. The company has put the rate hike on hold for now, but the very thought of such an increase from any insurer has legislators moving quickly to act. U.S

Senator Diane Feinstein (DCalifornia) and U.S Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-Illinois) are pushing legislation that would prevent insurance companies from raising premiums without prior approval from a regulatory body. Some states already have this step in place, most do not.

Of course, leaders in the insurance industry say that more regulation is not the answer.

They want federal officials to instead work to reduce rising medical costs, which play a part

in driving up premiums. Indeed, skyrocketing medical costs is something the country needs to work on but the insurance industry premium increases do require oversight, plain and simple.

Policymakers attempted to include such legislation in the healthcare bill but that provision was ultimately cut. Ironically, it was the threat of the rate hike from Anthem that resurrected the healthcare bill.

Unfortunately, lawmakers make

a grave mistake when they let the bill pass without this mandate.

If they move quickly, they have a chance to get it right.

Requiring insurance companies to get prior approval before significantly raising their rates is the best approach to making sure all that health care reform promises does not ultimately fall flat.

Judge Greg Mathis became the youngest judge in Michigan’s

history and was elected a Superior Court Judge for Michigan’s 36th District. He has been called upon as a regular contributor to national television programs, including “Larry King Live,” “Politically Incorrect,” CNN’s “Talk Back Live,” “Showbiz Tonight” and “Extra” to discuss his opinions on complex issues of the day, such as national security, unique sentencing, affirmative action and celebrity scandals. He also offers his take on high-profile legal cases.

Title I fund formula disadvantages many children it was created to help Children’s Defense Fund

By Marian Wright Edelman (NNPA) - Title I was created “to ensure all children a fair and equal opportunity to obtain a high-quality education.”

However, the formula for distributing Title I funds is stacked against the very children it was most intended to help.

The current formula (a complex combination of four formulas) favors large districts regardless of their child poverty rate while children trapped in areas of concentrated poverty in midsized cities and rural districts are seriously disadvantaged. The inequities between and within states are blatant and must be rectified in this reauthorization cycle.

Why should Mississippi, the state with the highest concentration of Title I eligible

students (27.2 percent) and the highest concentration of child poverty (30.4 percent), get an average allocation of $1,318 for each Title I eligible student while Wyoming, with the lowest percent of Title I eligible students (11.6 percent) and a three times lower child poverty rate (11.6 percent), receives an average of $3,149 per Title I eligible student—a $1,831 difference per child?

And why should Virginia’s Buchanan County Public School District, with over 30 percent Title I eligible students and a 28 percent child poverty rate, receive $1,363 per eligible student while Virginia’s Henrico County Public Schools, with 9 percent Title I eligible students and a 10 percent child poverty rate, receive $1,943—almost $600 more per eligible student?

This is simply wrong and widens the opportunity gap between rich and poor districts and rich and poor children Title I was intended to help close. This resource inequity denies children in areas of concentrated poverty a way out and fuels the cradle-to-prison pipeline which is creating a new American

apartheid. A revised and more just allocation must ensure ALL children an equal opportunity to learn and succeed. Injustice to any child or group of children for a single day is morally indefensible, and the five years of this reauthorization period is a very long time in the life of a child.

The Children’s Defense Fund (CDF) believes that the most effective way to fix these inequities is to reform the formula but recognizes that a complete formula change this year may not be possible. In any case, immediate steps can and must be taken now to ensure many poor children a more level playing field including: Supporting early learning by incorporating the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) Early Learning Challenge provisions for children 0-5; including 0-5 children in any formula determining funding allocations to high poverty districts; and requiring a percentage of these funds to be directed to support quality programs for young children.

Providing additional new

competitively awarded monies to those districts and students most in need (as a partial way of dealing with the funding inequities) by including “poverty concentration” among the selection criteria; giving incentives to public-private partnerships in those areas; and ensuring these districts the technical support essential to success.

Providing effective educational support and stability for children in juvenile justice facilities and foster care under Title I-D to reduce recidivism and help children escape the prison pipeline. The Department of Education must require that children and teens in juvenile facilities receive a high quality education, coordinated with the public school curriculum, and that schools facilitate their successful transition back to regular classrooms. Children in foster care also need stability and equal access to educational opportunity.

The Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act of 2008 requires state and local child welfare agencies to collaborate with

education agencies to promote educational stability for foster children.

Reciprocal requirements on education agencies are now needed in ESEA. Ending zero tolerance school discipline policies and out-ofschool suspensions which disproportionately affect minority children. While school safety is not negotiable, one size fits all zero tolerance policies contribute mightily to school drop outs and the cradle to prison pipeline. Current school discipline policies too often are based on the serious misbehavior of 5-10 percent students. While violent and seriously unruly students must be separated from the rest of the class, they need appropriate counseling and ways to keep up with coursework in a supervised, supportive learning environment until they are ready to rejoin their peers.

The Department of Education must promote positive, consistent, and fair discipline measures that keep students in school and learning and focus more on preventing and re-enrolling school dropouts

building on proven strategies.

In 1969, CDF’s parent organization, the Washington Research Project, issued its first report: Title I: Is it Helping Poor Children? The answer then was “no.” Unless major changes are made to Title I’s funding inequities and more attention is paid to those most vulnerable poor and minority children who are at risk of dropping out and going to prison, the answer will still be “no” for millions of children.

It is time for the federal government to be an instrument of equality rather than inequality. CDF stands ready to do everything we can to help achieve this doable and long overdue goal.

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.

In the age of Obama, is the movement for reparations dead?

Business Exchange

By William Reed Black Press Business/Economics Like many Black Americans, the Project 21 Black Conservative Leadership Network called the US Senate’s “apology for slavery” resolution “useless”. But, Project

21 seems to be singing somebody else’s agenda when they say: “apologizing for slavery and segregation will be used as a lobbying tool to acquire reparations payments.”

Is the concept of reparations for Blacks a dead issue and is Project 21 contributor Jimmie L. Hollis right in urging the Senate to “move on”? Hollis says: “As an American of African ancestry, I think this apology is ridiculous and useless.

It is just another ‘feel good’ action.

If we are to start apologizing for every injustice and wrong done in the past, we will spend the next few decades just apologizing.”

Most American descendants

from slaves would agree “an apology is not enough.” In 2010, a disproportionate number of African Americans are in jails and ensconced in judicial systems.

Unemployment among Blacks remains, as it has for decades, twice that of Whites.

Black institutions, social agencies, education and communities are typically funded below rates for Whites. Yet, in the face of America’s institutionalized pattern of discrimination, this cadre of young Blacks steadfastly stands for the status quo.

Can any deny the “rightness” of reparations? Its human and legal rights advocates say African American reparations are based on a legal precedence: that when a society or group willingly and knowingly commits a crime or “moral wrongs”, a form of compensation is due.

The movement has been led, before his death, by Johnnie L. Cochran, Randall Robinson and a venerable constitutional attorney Dr. Robert L. Brock. Cochran was heading a reparations for slavery lawsuit

against the United States of America.

Brock says “a debt is owed Blacks for the centuries of unpaid slave labor that built America’s early economy and money owed from discriminatory wage and employment patterns Blacks have been subjected to since emancipation”. A legend in Black Reparations circles, Brock gets little mainstream media with statements like: “The wealth of America is our legal property.

But we must make our legal claims to get money as others have.”

Before some Project 21 contributors were out of high school, Brock was holding meetings across America, supporting US Rep. John Conyers’ H.R. 40 Bill “to form a Commission to Study Reparations Proposal for African Americans”.

In the years before he became House Judiciary Committee Chair, Conyers made it a ritual to submit H.R. 40 in Congress each year since 1989. Basically H.R. 40: 1) acknowledges the fundamental

injustice and inhumanity of slavery; 2) establishes a commission to study slavery and its subsequent racial and economic discrimination against freed slaves; 3) studies the impact of those forces on today’s living African Americans; and 4) commission would then make recommendations to Congress on appropriate remedies to redress the harm inflicted on living African Americans.

But the imperative of correcting and repairing the legacy of slavery and its continuing effects on African Americans is on the skids. Conyers has now given up on what now appears to have been a 20-year facade of legislating for slave reparations in America. Conyers was recently quoted saying “the reparations issue is too controversial to pursue at this time.”

For the few who think things have changed, for most Black Americans, situations have remained the same. For the majority of African Americans the vestiges of slavery and de jure

segregation continue. Yet, the House Judiciary Committee’s first Black head now says reparations are “too controversial to pursue”.

At a time when America has its first Black President and first Black Judiciary Chair; it is more than ironic that the level of discussion about absence of wealth, work, educational, and economic capacity among Blacks is more muted than under previous people in those positions.

It’s odd that Blacks would damper down discussions about reparations during the Presidency of a Black man? Are the voices of Project 21’s protégées the political reality?

Have conversations regarding rectifying economic injustices done Blacks completely died; or will African Americans give attention to, and make the passage of, H.R. 40 a priority despite Conyers and Obama?

(William Reed – www.BlackPressInternational.com)

Page 10 • May 3 - May 9, 2010 • Insight News

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Library examines Asian cultures through food traditions Asian Americans make up approximately six percent of Hennepin County residents. The largest groups are Hmong, Vietnamese, Asian Indian and Chinese. Asian celebrations are centered around food and Asian cuisine is known the world over for its rich flavors and spices.

This May, in celebration of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, Hennepin County Library's Spice and Slice of Asia 2010 series explores the role food plays in Hmong, Indian, Korean and Vietnamese cultures. Local culinary professionals and community figures will share the history and traditions of food and festivities within their respective communities.

Mai Nguyen of Mai Village Restaurant, St. Paul, will discuss some special foods connected with Vietnamese celebratory dinners, including seven beef dishes.

Librarian Phuoc Tran will talk about Vietnamese comfort foods with lotus as their main ingredient, and the symbolisms attached.

The Korean Service Center will present a typical kids' birthday table and describe significant birthday celebrations and foods consumed at other life-defining occasions.

Local culinary expert and award-winning cookbook author Raghavan Iyer will weave in personal stories of Indian foods such as whole milk creams, succulent opo squash croquettes and stewed plantains, and discuss their symbolic meanings in the Indian cultural tradition.

Hmong Culture Center representatives will discuss

Spice and Slice of Asia: Hmong Foods and Festivities Brookdale Library, 6125 Shingle Creek Pkwy, Brooklyn Center Saturday, May 22, 1:30 p.m.

Exhibit: May 1-31 Hmong artifacts, including "Talking Suitcases" that focus on issues of immigration, personal loss and identity

Dates and locations of programs are: Vietnamese Foods and Festivities Minneapolis Central Library, 300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis Doty Board Room Saturday, May 1, 1:30 p.m.

Exhibit: May 1-31 Vietnamese artifacts and traditional cooking utensils

Vietnamese artifacts and traditional cooking utensils May was designated by President George H. W. Bush in 1990 to be Asian Pacific American Heritage Month to commemorate the immigration of the first Japanese to the

PHONE: FAX:

“http://www.mul.org/”www.mul.org Contact Theresa (612) 827- 9268

Credit Smart- Ongoing FREE Credit Education Classes. Every Tuesday, 68pm. Minneapolis Urban League 2100 Plymouth Ave. N. Mpls. HYPERLINK

Hallie Q. Brown Community Substitute Teacher

Realizing the American Dream – Ongoing Home Buyer Program. First Thurs. of every month, 68pm. $25.00 per Family, Minneapolis Urban League 2100 Plymouth Ave. N. Mpls.

HYPERLINK “http://www.mul.org/”www.mul.org Center Contact Theresa (612) 827- 9268

DEPT: Early Learning Center SUPERVISED BY: Youth Program Manager TITLES SUPERVISED: N/A FLSA: Non-Exempt SALARY GRADE: $10-13/hour POSITION SUMMARY: This is a substitute position designed to fill in as needed on a short or long term basis for permanent teaching staff. Substitute Teacher participates in long and short range activities for students in accordance with curriculum objectives and engages students in developmentally appropriate activities.

Assists with ensuring that the classroom is appropriately staffed and maintained to provide a safe and secure environment for each child.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES: 1.

Works with teaching staff to implement program curriculum and coordinate students activities.

2.

Plans and supervises the arrangement of the classroom environment in accordance to program goals and philosophy.

3.

Maintains a safe and healthy environment, including safely managing developmental activities for the participants.

4.

Keeps all appropriate records such as records, attendance, time sheets and accident reports.

5.

Maintains open communication with parents/guardians of the program participants regarding the developmental needs of the participants.

QUALIFICATIONS: Education: Associates degree or equivalent in early childhood development. B.S. in Early childhood Development preferred.

Licensing and Certifications: CPR and Meet all applicable licensing regulations. Valid Driver's License and proof of insurance. Minnesota Teachers' License (preferred).

Work Experience: 5 years of Child Care Center or related experience required.

Other Requirements: • Dealing with confidential information.

• Tight deadlines.

• Dealing with unfavorable weather conditions.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Ability to work effectively with employees, colleagues and manager.

• Agree to mandated child abuse reporting guidelines.

• Ability to relate to children from diverse socio-economic and cultural backgrounds.

To apply, send a cover letter, resume, salary requirements and references to: Hallie Q. Brown Community Center ATTN: Human Resources 270 N. Kent Street Saint Paul, MN 55102 651-224-7074-Fax hr@hallieqbrown.org

Hallie Q. Brown Community Center Executive Coordinator DEPT: Administration SUPERVISED BY: Director of Finance and Operations & Executive Director TITLES SUPERVISED: N/A FLSA: Exempt SALARY GRADE: $25,000 - $33,000 POSITION SUMMARY: Coordinates the day to day affairs of Executive Management for the agency. Key responsibilities include: Executive support, office administration; human resources program coordination, customer relations, employee records management and regulatory compliance support.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. Supports the overall leadership for the Agency.

2. Provides administrative support for the Executive Director, including but not limited to: Taking projects from start to finish including troubleshooting, problem solving and providing updates as necessary; anticipating and proactively supporting the administrative needs of Executive Director including conducting research and analysis, preparation of correspondence, reports and charts, managing calendar and schedule. Maintains files and records as appropriate.

3. Assists Executive Management with Board meeting logistics and details, including scheduling and administratively supporting the production of Board meeting information packets, etc.

4. Supports the Director of Finance and Operations in the coordination of the human resources function, including maintaining personnel files and appropriate agency documentation to support compliance requirements; documents the HR activities, actions and processes related to hiring.

5. Develops reports and budget information as needed.

6. Provides general office support to Executive Management.

7. Professionally represents HQB in various community engagement activities and meetings, as appropriate.

8. Acts as a liaison between general public, partners, organizations and other key constituents and Hallie Q. Brown Executive Management.

9. Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS: Education and Work Experience: Bachelors Degree with 2-3 years of administrative experience, Associates Degree with 3-5 years of administrative experience or the equivalent required.

Conversation Circles - Apr. 5 to May 10 Mondays, April 5-May 10, 6:15 p.m. at Augsburg Park Library. Non-native English speakers: practice your English and make new friends in an informal, volunteer-led setting, and learn about the library, too. Call 612-630-6069 for more information in English or, in Hmong, 952847-8845; in Somali, 952-847-8756; in Spanish, 952-847-8510.

“The House of Bernarda Alba” by Federico García Lorca - Apr. 9 to 25 All shows at 7:30 p.m. at the SteppingStone Theatre, 55 Victoria Street North. Tix: $15 General Admission / $12 Students & Seniors. 612-203-1088, www.PangeaWorldTheater.org “Critical Conversations: Middle East Conflicts, Root Causes” - Ongoing A course on Middle East Conflicts will be held through St. Paul Community Education, every Tues. from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. for five weeks, beginning Tues., April 20 at Como Park Senior High School, 740 West Rose Ave., St. Paul. Fee: $35. Info / registration: call 651-293-8733.

Red Balloon Bookshop Upcoming Events – Thru May A series of book clubs and events for children, and adults. Includes author meetings and readings, book clubs for kids, book clubs for adults who enjoy children’s books and more. To see all upcoming events, visit: http://www.redballoonbookshop.com/ A Gospel Music Celebration Honoring Reverend Carl Walker - May 1 Sat. May 1, Concert begins at 4pm, with a banquet to follow at 5:30pm. St. PaulReformation Lutheran Church - 100 N. Oxford Street St. Paul, MN 55104 - For more information or to buy tickets, contact

Hallie Q. Brown Community Center ATTN: Human Resources 270 N. Kent Street Saint Paul, MN 55102 651-224-7074-Fax hr@hallieqbrown.org

Adoption Meeting - MAY 3 Learn about the many types of adoption, children who need families, timelines and costs at a FREE Adoption Informational Meeting from 7-8:30pm Monday, May 3 at HOPE Adoption & Family Services, 5850 Omaha Ave N, Oak Park Heights, MN. The meeting is free but please register: 651-439-2446 or www.hopeadoptionservices.org.

Lowertown Reading Jam - May 3 The Saint Paul Almanac’s popular monthly Lowertown Reading Jam series continues in May with an evening showcasing what it means to be a Cultural Worker and the power of using the arts to heal, create and build community. 7-8:30pm. Black Dog Café, 308 Prince St, St. Paul The Hormel Strike: After 25 Years - May 4 In August 1985, workers went on strike at the Hormel plant in Austin, Minnesota. A quarter-century later, get a perspective from two participants in the strike, Dale Chichester and Pete Winkels, as well as historian Peter Rachleff, author of Hard-Pressed in the Heartland.

Tues., May 4, 7 pm at UFCW 789 Hall, 266 Hardman Ave., South St. Paul Minnesota Veterans Career Fair - May 5 The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development is sponsoring the Veterans Career Fair on May 5 to help connect military veterans looking for work and employers who are hiring. 11am3pm on Wed., May 5. at the Earle Brown Heritage Center, 6155 Earle Brown Drive, Brooklyn Center.

Overcoming Debt and Embracing Financial Independence – May 5 Geoff Bullock will explain how to develop a personal debt-management plan, how to prevent garnishments and rebuild credit, and what Fair Debt rights are.

Bullock will also cover the deceptive practices of debt collectors. Wed., May 5 at 6:30pm. Rice Street Library, 1011 Rice Street, St. Paul.

Parent resource fair for those affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders - May 7 Friday, May 7th, 2010 will be held from 10:00am12:00pm. at HSI at 7066 Stillwater Blvd. N in Oakdale. For more information and to register for this event, please call Cathy Luiken at 651-351-3152.

May E. Kiazolu, Plaintiff, v.

Varney Jumor Kiazolu, Defendant.

United States on May 7, 1843, and to mark the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad by mainly Chinese immigrants on May 10, 1869.

For further information contact: Chaleng Nong Lee, Asian Outreach Liaison, Hennepin County Library at 952-847-5641 or call the Hmong Phone Line: at 952-847-8828. www.hclib.org/pub/info/welcome/?language=hmong

EMAIL: ONLINE:

Annual Mother’s Day Recognition Dinner - May 2 Sunday, May 2 at St. Paul Masonic Center; 200 E. Plato Blvd. in St. Paul, MN -4 pm to 7 pm. Donation: Children age 5-11 - $5; age 12-Adult - $8. For questions or reservation call (612) 825-5636 before/or

by April 26th deadline.

COUNTY OF ORANGEBURG

ben@insightnews.com http://insightnews.com

2010 National Poetry Slam Preview/Fundraiser – May 7 w/ Guante, dial_system, Mnemosyne, Fresh Squeeze, See More Perspective, DJ Nak and top Twin Cities slam poets. Fri., May 7, at the 501 Club.9pm. 21+. No cover.

The Hollywood Fashion Show Fundraiser - May 8 New York Style, Featuring Jay Z’s Rocawear Line.

Sat. May 8, with Special Guest Joseph Nevels.

Fineline Music Cafe, 218 First Ave S. Mpls. Doors at 8pm, show at 9:30, Donation $20 Hope House Benefit Auction - May 8 Hope House of St. Croix Valley, an adult foster care home for people living with AIDS, will be holding their 15th Annual Benefit Auction on Saturday May 8, From 10am to 2pm, rain or shine, at 451 North Everett St. Stillwater, MN. TAWU Artist Development Network Monthly Meeting - May 8 The TAWU Artist Network is seeking new members.

Artists interested in working as a group to secure exhibition sites, selling and training opportunities, and/or simply being in the company of a supportive group of visual artists should check us out. Sat. May 8, 2010 - Noon - 2:00 p.m.

Mother’s Day Brunch – May 8 Picture of a Virtuous Mother – Sat., May 8, at 11:00am. Zion Baptist Church 621 Elwood Ave. N. Mpls, MN 612-377-5436 Hungry Planet: What the World Eats – Now thru May 9 Bell Museum of Natural History, 17th Ave. SE in Minneapolis, on the University of Minnesota campus.

Free admission on Sundays. Info: 612-624-7083.

Register: 612-624-9050.

From Hybrid Corn to Honeycrisps: University Agricultural Success Stories by Photographer David – Now thru May 9 Bell Museum of Natural History, 17th Ave. SE in Minneapolis, on the University of Minnesota campus.

Free admission on Sundays. Info: 612-624-7083.

Register: 612-624-9050.

St. Joan of Arc Church Mental Illness Ministry Event –May 10 Speakers: Theresa Carufel and Dennis Jackson; Topic: Family Members and Mental Illness; 5:45—6:45: Light meal provided; 7—8:15: Speaker; free and open to all; no RSVP needed; Roseann 612.823.8205; Mary, claudemaryparadis@comcast.net; www.stjoan.com/mimfr.htm; Site: SJA Church Hospitality Hall, Door 1, 4537 Third Av S, Mpls.

CLASSIFIEDS

) ) )

IN THE FAMILY COURT FOR THE FIRST JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

PHONE: 612.588.1313

) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) )

Docket No. 10-DR-38-278

FAX:

612.588.2031

EMAIL:

sales@insightnews.com

SUMMONS

THE DEFENDANT ABOVE-NAMED YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED AND REQUIRED to answer the Complaint in

this matter, a copy of which is herewith served upon you, and to serve a copy of your answer to said Complaint upon the subscriber at his offices located at 2000 Park Street, Suite 100, Post Office Box 8596, Columbia, South Carolina, 29202-8596, within thirty (30) days from the service thereof, exclusive of the day of such service; and if you fail to answer the Complaint within the time aforesaid, judgment by default will be rendered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint.

Other Requirements: • Ability to deal with confidential information • Ability to handle tight deadlines • Exceptional computer skills • Excellent verbal and written communication skills • Excellent customer service skills • Organized and detail oriented • Ability to work effectively with employees, colleagues and manager • Agree to mandated child abuse reporting guidelines • Ability to relate to people from diverse socio-economic and cultural backgrounds • Dealing with unfavorable weather conditions To apply, send a cover letter, resume, salary requirements and references to:

612.588.1313 612.588.2031

cdoesmusic247@aol.com

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA

TO:

wegotserved.blogspot.com

Spice and Slice of Asia: Vietnamese Foods and Festivities Augsburg Park Library, 7100 Nicollet Ave., Richfield Sunday, May 23, 1:30 p.m.

Exhibit: May 1-31

Spice and Slice of Asia: Korean Foods and Festivities Southdale Library, 7001 York Ave. S., Edina Saturday, May 8, 1:30 p.m.

Exhibit: May 1-27 Korean cooking objects that focus on issues of immigration, personal loss and identity

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Events

Spice and Slice of Asia: Indian Foods and Festivities Eden Prairie Library, 565 Prairie Center Dr., Eden Prairie Saturday, May 15, 1:30 p.m.

Exhibit, May 1-31: Indian cookbooks, cooking utensils, serving pieces

the role food plays in important and deeply religious Hmong ceremonies such as funerals and weddings, and how shamans use food as a communication tool with the world of spirits.

There will be companion exhibits of typical cooking utensils or serving pieces at presenting libraries throughout May. The Korean and Hmong exhibits also will include a selection of "Talking Suitcases" -handmade vignettes that tell stories of immigration, personal loss and identity.

ISAACS & ALLEY, L.L.P. G. Robin Alley, Esquire 2000 Park Street, Suite 100 Post Office Box 8596 Columbia, SC 29202-8596 (803) 252-6323 Attorneys for the Plaintiff gra@isaacsandalley.com Columbia, South Carolina February 12, 2010 NOTICE: The Summons in this action, of which the above is a copy, together with the Complaint therein was filed with the Clerk of Court of Orangeburg County on March 5, 2010

Administrative and Project Support Staff position The PEACE Foundation is looking for someone to join its team as a full time Administrative and Project Support Staff. Requirements for this position include: excellent computer skills in MS Office, strong communication skills with an ability to interact effectively with many different people, a high attention to detail and accuracy, flexibility, and previous office experience work in a similar capacity. Please send a resume and cover letter

by May 17th to laura@citypeace.org, or to PEACE Foundation, 1200 West Broadway Ave., Suite 180, Minneapolis, MN 55411.

ABA Minnesota Blizzards Basketball The Minnesota Blizzards ABA Basketball Team is announcing a program for college Internships for the fall and winter. The program will consist of five teams of 5 interns each in the following areas: (1) Sales, (2) Basketball Operations. (3) Marketing (4) Public Relations (5) Business administration. Each team will have a leader and be given challenging assignments.

We are looking for college students majoring in Sports Management, Business, Public Relations, Marketing Sales, Broadcasting and Event Planning. We need 20 or 25 interns working with us for a (minimum of 8 hours a week) on a part-time basis. Interns will gain valuable experience, and in most cases college credits. Interested Parties please send resume to: The Minnesota ABA Team Attn: Internship Program 10125 Crosstown Circle #200 Eden Prairie, MN 55344 952-829-1250 Fax: 952-829-1040 www.minnesotablizzards.com

insightnews.com

Insight News • May 3 - May 9, 2010 • Page 11

Girl Scouts discover, connect and take action at luncheon

By Chris Garner On Thursday, April 8, 2010, The Girl Scouts of Minnesota and Wisconsin River Valleys held its second annual Women of Distinction Luncheon which celebrated seven women who have shown extraordinary courage, confidence, and character, as well as the goal of Girl Scouts preparing young female leaders of tomorrow.

The MC for this year’s award ceremony was FOX 9 news anchor and former Girl Scout Robyne Robinson, who opened up the ceremony by asking all girl scouts and former girls scouts to join along with her in singing the Brownie Song.

The event focused on teaching young women the purpose of discovering their talents and attributes, learning to work together and being able to take action to make a difference.

This is a goal executive director of Girl Scouts of Minnesota and Wisconsin River Valleys Linda Keene wanted to not only get across to her girls but to the people who influence and make a difference in their lives.

“Studies have shown that girl’s leadership aspirations and

MPS From 1 “This is an extraordinary victory for North Minneapolis and for the entire city,” said William English, CBC/AALS co-chair. “For the first time the district is showing its commitment to our community in an economic sense. Our community has suffered loss of teachers of color due to rigid seniority systems. The loss of teacher incomes means our communities have suffered economically.”

“This decision may signal a reversal in that trend,” English said.

“The School Board awarded the most diverse development team in history of Minnesota with the Thor/Mortenson partnership and the Legacy/Mortenson partnership, and others. The decision is symbolic because it says that our community and our needs are more than just a

qualities can develop through organized skill building activities and exposure to leadership opportunities,” said Keene. “Through participation in Girl Scouts, girls gain skills and capacity to succeed in life and to make a positive difference in the world.”

Barbara Boelk, public relations specialist for Girl Scouts of Minnesota and Wisconsin River Valleys believes it is important to show young girls adult female role models making a difference. “If we don’t give these girls actual real life examples, how will they learn,” said Boelk, who gave 30 girls from all over the Minnesota and Wisconsin River Valleys the opportunity to attend and host the luncheon. It is important to her that these young girls are empowered and understand their importance.

This message of female leadership was further pushed by the event’s key note speaker, the first woman of color in space, Dr. Mae Jemison.

Jemison wanted lunch attendees as well as the future female leaders of tomorrow to know that they should not let time pass them by without seizing possibilities and taking responsibility to put things into

action. “If we wait for tomorrow, tomorrow will come, if we don’t wait for tomorrow, tomorrow still comes,” said Jemison, “we have to risk putting things into action.”

The women honored were Susan S. Boren, one of the first female partners at Spencer Stuart; Gail K. Boudreax, president of United Health Care and executive president of United Health Group; Yvonne Cheung Ho, president and CEO of Metropolitan Economic Development Association, whose mission is to help entrepreneurs of color succeed; Nancy Lindahl , a distinguished volunteer and philanthropist ; Mee Moua, first Hmong American elected to a state legislature, senator of District 67 in the state of Minnesota; and last but not least, Kim Nelson, senior vice president of General Mills and president of General Mills snack division.

Along with honoring accomplished adults, Girl Scouts also honored one of their own young women who has made a difference, Patrick Henry High School senior, Miranda Yang. Yang, a member of Girl Scouts and GSMV’s sister program, Hmong Women’s Circle, strives to teach

women like her that they don’t have to sacrifice their culture, but should embrace who the are as Hmong Americans. Yang said “I am a woman, a Hmong American, a Girl Scout.”

As the afternoon event closed Robinson asked all the luncheon attendees to pick up

the Girl scout envelopes on their table and each donate what they can to send a girl to camp or conference so they can continue to the create and develop young female leaders of tomorrow.

Each guest also left with a token of appreciation from the girls, a homemade card and a river rock

that either read connect, discover, or take action, all goals each person should try to achieve in their own journeys to success.

For more information on Girl Scouts of Minnesota and Wisconsin River Valleys, www.girlscoutsrv.org.

source of revenue. The decision establishes the notion that if we are going to change the outcomes for our students, we have to be involved at every level of the education enterprise. This is evidence of that. It gives us motivation and inspiration to stay at the table, to confront when needed and to cooperate always.”

School Board Director Chris Stewart said he supported the choice of West Broadway because it met three criteria. First, he said, “It recognized the difficulty the District faces trying to balance academic improvement while facing an environment of declining enrollments and declining revenues.”

“Secondly, it provides the opportunity to consolidate operations effectively and efficiently so that the district will be able to invest more money into the classrooms,” he said.

“Third, with any large business decision, it makes sense to consider

the economic and social impact. This decision does that,” Stewart said.

He said North Minneapolis has the largest number of kids in the district, but is the area where the District has lowest market share of those kids. “Many of the kids we do serve in North Minneapolis are the most marginalized, not only academically, but socially and economically.”

Stewart said he rejected critics who argue that the District is giving North Minneapolis an unfair advantage by paying too much attention to North Minneapolis at the expense of other areas of the city.

The Board approved constructing a new building 1250 West Broadway, on the North Star School site. Administrative staff from 807 NE Broadway, Webster, the Lehmann Center and the current 1250 West Broadway building will be housed in the new headquarters.

The new headquarters will open September 2012.

Adult Basic Education and existing childcare programs for the children of MPS students may also be located at the new headquarters.

Board Director T. Williams, who lives in North Minneapolis, said he voted for the West Broadway site because the proposal addresses critical space needs and because of the strong recommendation from District administration staff.

“This proposal increases the opportunity for the district to engage the community. It will stimulate more volunteerism both on the part of District employees and on the part of corporate and community stakeholders who are committed improving outcomes for students and their families,” Williams said.

Williams reflected on a program several years ago where teen parents received childcare and mentoring in a program set up in the corporate headquarters of Honeywell. “They created a safe and welcoming environment that was supported by

the corporation and its employees.

That program made a difference in the lives of these young parents,” he said.

He said headquarters childcare resource for children of students can replicate the secure, supportive environment that can deliver positive results for students.

Asouth side welcome center will be developed at 2225 East Lake Street, the former Brown Institute and Anishinabe Academy building, as a part of this plan.

Currently, MPS operates administrative offices in four buildings: 807 NE Broadway, Webster School in Northeast Minneapolis, 1250 W Broadway and the Lehmann Center on West Lake Street in South Minneapolis.

School administrators said the new headquarters proposal rightsizes the amount of administrative space to the number of employees, reducing administrative office space from 633,000 square feet to 275,000.

The District said consolidating space into one facility will save approximately $10 million over the next three decades and provide administrative staff with an appropriate place to work.

Informational community meetings were held on April 8, 20 and 22 to review three prospective proposals. The three proposals reviewed included: • 1250 West Broadway: New build-to-suit structure for District Headquarters/Welcome Center. The proposal includes a partial renovation of the former Anishinabe building at 2225 East Lake St. for Welcome Center/Community Ed/Adult Basic Education.

• 807 NE Broadway (current headquarters): Full renovation of existing district administration building.

• 11th Avenue & 3rd Street South (Valspar Building): Lease of an existing single tenant office building with parking ramp.

Jackie Means

Dr. Mae Jemison and Girls Scouts from different troops within Minnesota and the Wisconsin River Valleys.

Page 12 • May 3 - May 9, 2010 • Insight News

insightnews.com

SPORTS Look for another series of Kobe’s championship Nike puppet commercials Mr T’s Sports Report

By Ryan T. Scott ryan@insightnews.com Basketball ain’t what it used to be, but it’s pretty impossible not to marvel at the size and grace of the young men flying – but mostly lumbering – down the court, and regularly flying sky high over the rim. I mean Dwight Howard of the Orlando Magic seems likely to be able to dunk a ball over the backboard, and every time I see his shoulders I think of the Eddie

Murphy stand-up phrase “Aw look at his shoulders.”

Lebron James is the closest thing to a live video game character, and Kobe Bryant has finally achieved the status of “Greatest Michael Jordan Look Alike of All-Time.” So I suppose when I think about it like that, I remember that Magic Johnson was huge, and actually had hops before he got his Hollywood weight; and I would also imagine that Wilt Chamberlain could dunk a ball over the backboard. So maybe things aren’t so different after all…except for Dwight Howard’s bison sized shoulders…and martian sized little head (he-he).

Though the overall brand of NBA basketball ain’t what it

L.A. Lakers, 2009 Playoff Champions used to be – disciplined – it’s no less enjoyable to watch the very best players in the game exert their exotic abilities in the intimate confines of the basketball arena – the physical theatrical set-up of basketball makes for good distraction watching the fans, for the moments when it gets lame watching big dudes slowly dribble a ball (I’m watching hockey while I write this, and think hockey would be a more popular sport if they didn’t have the glass between the action and the crowd. And I also figured I didn’t want you to miss out on the visual of a pro hockey game without the glass to protect people from screaming slapshots. That way the fans could be missing teeth just like the players.).

Anyway, the NBA Playoffs are underway so we have night after night of dribble drama. The defending champions, the Los Angeles Lakers, have looked better in past championship years entering the playoffs, but

they have been known to play like some lax prima-donnas causing unnecessary drama, and quite the high amount of “pisstivity” in my family’s households.

All the Laker Haters are lathered-up, nonetheless, and praying for the downfall of the Hollywood sign and the potential next Laker Dynasty.

Well, Hugh Hefner is saving the Hollywood sign, and Kobe Bryant is saving the Lakers by finally being forced by Father Time to pass the friggin’ ball. The young legs of the Oklahoma

don’t see any other problems in the Western Conference for the Zen mastered reigning champions Los Angeles Lakers. While I’m quoting Eddie Murphy, I’ll use his Coming to America Sexual Chocolate character quote to describe the Lakers “They play so beautiful don’t you agree.” They started here in Minnesota, so of course, they play beautiful (smile).

Talking about the Lakers possibly playing the Cavliers in a Finals match-up is talking about some real ballin’ goin’ on.

LeBron has Shaq on his side now,

“Shaq is still dunking on people real hungry like.”

Thunder, was one of my biggest concerns for my favorite team coming into the playoffs. Besides the problems that the Thunders’ fresh, young, “don’t know any better than to think they can win” brashness and ability, I really

and as much as people like to think Shaq is washed-up: He is still 7’2” and 340 or so lbs., and he still has a big butt to push people around and then dunk on them real hungry like. Ain’t nothin’ changed except the

lakers.topbuzz.com

country Cleveland backdrop when it comes to Shaq and the NBA playoffs, and the addition of Antawn Jamison to the Cavaliers provides another veteran who knows how to get his, and play his role at the same time.

And though people seem to ignore the fact that the Orlando Magic were in the Finals last year, last I checked they were the first ones to polish off their 1st Round competition, and their new addition, Vince Carter, was a part of the same national champion North Carolina team that taught Antawn Jamison how to close the deal.

I’ve got two words for you: Twin Towers. If Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum of the Lakers don’t forget how to play that nifty game of volleyball that they do around the basket, then we can ALL look forward to another series of Kobe’s championship Nike puppet commercials. Those we’re definitely some of the best commercials in the history of television…in my humble opinion. Kobe. Pass the ball.