Insight News ::: 5.28.12

REGINA MARIE WILLIAMS

LIVE ON THE DRIVE Thursday, June 14, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Victory Memorial Parkway

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INSIGHT NEWS May 28 - June 3, 2012 • MN Metro Vol. 38 No. 22 • The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • www.insightnews.com

Northside nice: Build community and the stadium

By Robert Woods, CEO/NAMC

Suluki Fardan

Aftermath of the North Minneapolis tornado on Sunday, May 22, 2011

Ellison: Smart leadership is being part of the solution, not tearing others down

By Representative Keith Ellison (D-MN) Originally published in the Star Tribune. Updated: May 22, 2012.

As I reflect on the tornado that hit the Twin Cities last year, my heart goes out to the families who lost loved ones.

I am thankful for the courage and generosity of our first responders and neighbors in the face of a storm that ripped up trees and destroyed homes.

Suluki Fardan

Representative Keith Ellison

Natural disasters happen, but the way our communities respond determines whether we can overcome and move forward.

Last year, we averted a lasting tragedy thanks to courageous first responders, congregations, public workers and over 2,000 volunteers.

People of all communities came together and collaborated to achieve one selfless goal: to ease the hurt for hundreds whose lives had been suddenly upended.

Unfortunately, some are trying to paint north Minneapolis as a place where neighbors are left to fend for themselves. Nothing could be further from the truth.

My Republican opponent, Chris Fields, recently penned an op-ed implying that north Minneapolis lacks leadership (“North Side needs attentive leadership,” May 21). I strongly disagree.

Artspeak

By Irma McClaurin, PhD Culture and Education Editor

Yes, I admit to rocking a Donna Summer in my afro “do” with bell bottomed jeans, and platform shoes.

I even do the Hustle on occasion, if the right jam plays.

The death of the sultry “Queen of Disco” on May 18, 2012 is a different kind of tragedy than that of songstress Whitney Houston.

Donna Summer succumbed to death

donnasummer.com

Health

One family’s journey with Alzheimer’s

PAGE 6

after losing her battle with lung cancer at age 63. The singer believed that the cause of her illness was “inhaling toxic particles” after 9/11, according to TMZ. Summer made history back in the 1970s disco era as a fivetime Grammy winner and with the success of her iconic songs such as “Last Dance,” “Bad Girls” and “Hot Stuff,” she

Interview

Jimmy Carter, president, peanut farmer, and Sunday school teacher

PAGE 7

Suluki Fardan

Robert Woods

is complex. We have chosen the National Association of Minority Contractors (NAMC) to spearhead this plan and are continuously recruiting the talent, expertise, and experienced professionals to NAMC to ensure success.

STADIUM TURN TO 5

Carla Bates

Kim Ellison

Doug Mann

Josh Reimnitz

Alex Phung

Darrell Washington

LEADERSHIP TURN TO 3

So long Donna Summer…

Disco Queen par excellence Donna Summer

I am a North Minneapolis Black man speaking on the economic future of people of color. We have developed a detailed plan of action, where we participate in rebuilding the Northside community now, in order to prepare for participation in building the Vikings stadium, a game changer. Whether you want to help the disadvantaged or want less tax spending, I challenge anyone to develop a better return on taxpayer dollars than the economics of rebuilding the Northside and the stadium by involving targeted businesses and residents in a real way. The Plan, Northside Nice,

became a disco legend. Hers was an unexpected success story. And if you of the younger generation have never heard “Love to Love You Baby,” then you haven’t lived. Nelly and all those who talk about sex in their music have yet to master the sensual poetry of Summer. With just six words, “ooooh, love

SUMMER TURN TO 5

Leadership forum hosts school board candidates

By Lydia Schwartz Contributing Writer The African American Leadership Forum (AALF) Education and Life-Long Work Group recently developed a strategy based on a series of achievement gaps that prevent low-income youth from succeeding in school. Co-chair of the

Full Circle

What does it mean to be humble?

PAGE 11

AALF Education Workgroup, Karen Kelly-Ariwoola, and Assistant Director of the City of Minneapolis Department of Human Rights, Michael Browne, hosted candidates who are running for open seats on the Minneapolis School Board to discuss these issues and how we as a community

SCHOOLS TURN TO 3

Nobody Asked Me

If gays want to marry, who are we to judge?

PAGE 13

Page 2 • May 28 - June 3, 2012 • Insight News

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Memorial Day means gardening for many

By Melinda Myers Get out the shovel and trowels – its Memorial Day weekend and that means gardening for many. Spend a bit more time getting your garden off to a good start and reap the benefits all season long. Proper planting and post planting care means less maintenance, fewer pests and more produce and beautiful flowers in your landscape.

Start by selecting healthy plants free of insect and disease problems. There’s no need to spend money on problems.

And keep in mind that bigger is not always better. Instead look for compact plants with sturdy stems. The leaves should be deep green or the proper color for that variety. Avoid plants that show signs of stress such as spots, brown leaf edges, and holes. And when all things are equal, purchase the perennials with multiple stems.

Keep your purchase properly watered before and after planting. Check transplants daily and twice a day when temperatures rise, watering as needed. Increase success and reduce the stress transplants often face. Apply a plant strengthener such as

JAZ Spray to protect potted plants from drying out until you are able to plant. Or apply to transplants to get your plants off to a vigorous start.

These organic products are not fertilizers but rather naturally occurring molecules that work like an immunization to help new and established plants better tolerate heat, drought, insects, disease, and other challenges plants face.

Prepare the soil before planting.

Though not glamorous building a good foundation for your garden will pay off this season and beyond. Dig one or two inches of compost, peat moss or

other organic matter and a low nitrogen slow release fertilizer into the top 12 inches of the soil.

Now slide, don’t pull, the plants out of their containers to avoid damaging their roots and stems. If they resist, gently squeeze small flexible pots or roll larger pots on their sides over the ground. This loosens the roots, releasing the pot from the container.

Gently tease any roots that encircle (girdle) the root ball.

Or use a knife to slice through girdling roots or the tangled mass that often develops at the bottom of the pot. This encourages the roots to explore the soil beyond the planting hole. And a bigger root system means healthier plants that are more productive and beautiful.

Set your plants at the same depth they were growing in their container. Tall leggy tomatoes are the exception.

These can be planted deeper or in shallow trenches to encourage roots to form along the buried stem. Cover the roots with soil and gently tamp to insure good root to soil contact. Water new plantings thoroughly; moistening the rootball, planting hole, and beyond. Spread a thin layer of shredded leaves, evergreen needles or other mulch over the soil to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the roots cooler when hot weather moves in for the summer.

Check new plantings every other day and water thoroughly and often enough to keep the soil slightly moist. Gradually reduce the frequency until your plants only need to be watered once a week in heavy clay soils and twice a week in sandy soils.

Of course you’ll need to water more often in hot weather.

And don’t forget about the rest of your landscape. Plant strengtheners can be applied to established plants to prepare them for the often stressful season ahead. Treated plants will be better able to tolerate heat and drought as well as attacks from insects and diseases.

So get out and start planting to make this the best gardening

Melinda Myers

season yet.

Nationally known gardening expert, TV/radio host, author & columnist Melinda Myers has more than 30 years of horticulture experience and has written over 20 gardening books, including Can’t Miss Small Space Gardening. She hosts the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment segments which air on over 100 TV and radio stations throughout the U.S. and Canada. She is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and writes the twice monthly “Gardeners’

Questions” newspaper column.

Melinda also has a column in Gardening How-to magazine.

Melinda hosted “The Plant Doctor” radio program for over 20 years as well as seven seasons of Great Lakes Gardener on PBS. She has written articles for Better Homes and Gardens and Fine Gardening and was a columnist and contributing editor for Backyard Living magazine.

Melinda has a master’s degree in horticulture, is a certified arborist and was a horticulture instructor with tenure. Her web site is www.melindamyers.com

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Leadership From 1 I made north Minneapolis my home over 20 years ago.

I raised my children on the North Side.

There are leaders in every inch of our community: block leaders, faith leaders, public safety leaders, business leaders and more. We do not have a crisis in leadership. The North Side is working to overcome generations of disinvestment.

North Minneapolis has historically faced isolation -- all the way back to the 1930s, when city planning maps referred to the North Side as the “negro slums.”

But now we are seeing more and more integration into the greater community thanks to the countless leaders that Mr. Fields apparently believes do not exist.

Despite hardship, I have seen people overcome tremendous hurdles. Every day is a new opportunity to make progress and move forward.

For example, I was proud

Schools From 1 have an obligation to ensure that the next generation is a competitive labor pool and will attract technology-forward companies. The forum was also attended by Carla Bates, Minneapolis School Board Member At-Large, who is up for reelection after her first term. The Education Work Group’s tactic for battling the achievement gap is based on five aspects that affect a child’s ability to succeed in school: Preparation: A child’s home environment, economic status, emotional and social development, health, and cultural identity are all related to achievement in school.

Unfortunately, race often becomes a proxy for larger underlying social forces and factors that contribute to poor performance in school.

Minneapolis school board candidates agree that they want to see a school district where children feel safe and know that they have the opportunity to learn.

Alex Phung, District

Insight News • May 28 - June 3, 2012 • Page 3 to recently partner with community and government leaders to secure a $28 million grant for a Northside Achievement Zone. This effort will cut the achievement gap and give our kids a better future by providing the tools they need to succeed.

In addition, I’ve collaborated with my colleagues in Washington along with neighborhood leaders to secure $400,000 for Summit Academy’s green jobs initiative and $150,000 for the Northside Economic Opportunity Network.

Mr. Fields, who moved to Minneapolis one month before last year’s tornado, is using the natural disaster as a wedge to divide our communities. He claims to offer “leadership” but offers little in terms of a vision for moving forward.

What specifically would he have done differently? These questions remain unanswered.

At the end of the day, smart leadership is about being part of the solution, not trying to tear others down.

Smart leadership is offering a vision for how to move our

communities forward.

As we look ahead to November’s elections, Minnesotans face a clear choice between two fundamentally different visions for our district, our state and our country.

It’s a choice between those who fight to defund women’s health organizations and those who fight to extend affordable health care to 31,000 children with pre-existing conditions in the Fifth District. It’s a choice between those who cut funding for emergency responders and those who protect the jobs of emergency responders. It’s a choice between those who would let student loan rates double and those who ask the rich to pay their fair share in taxes.

Minnesotans have faced big challenges before, like last year’s tornado. But we have always come together to help each other. We always will -because this is a place where we believe that everybody counts and everybody matters.

6 candidate, stressed the importance of encompassing all of the support systems surrounding a child’s academic career and supports increasing school instruction time and giving teachers the flexibility to use bold and innovative strategies.

“We don’t necessarily need to eliminate poverty first in order to improve education,” he said. “It’s a complex issue and there are many different avenues to fixing the system.”

Belief: Research shows that the high expectations and the ‘pressure to learn’ from teachers and parents greatly impacts student achievement.

Opportunities to engage in more rigorous curriculum choices increases achievement and must be made available to all students, particularly African American students who have historically been denied access to such programs.

Curtis Johnson, District 6 candidate, cited his experience working with kids who do not believe that they can achieve what they see others are achieving. He said that he tries not to ask his students “Are you going college?” But, “Where are you going to college?” It’s

a tremendous impact when an authority figure expects them to do it he said. “Minneapolis Public Schools can and should provide the best educational experience so all its students can achieve their full potential…We must be upfront in order to identify the issues and craft solutions that focus on reducing teacher turnover and get quality teachers into underperforming schools,” said Johnson.

Time: Studies show that if African American children enter kindergarten already behind, and spend the same amount of time on a task in school as everybody else, they have an extremely difficult time catching up. Much of the instruction time needed for a student to catch up needs to be made up at home, in afterschool tutoring, or in summer school. In order to close the achievement gap, extending the school day and school year will help to reduce the ‘summertime achievement gap.’

Kim Ellison, District 2 candidate, said, “It’s not that students who fail out of public school can’t learn. It’s that

SCHOOLS TURN TO 5

Many Faces. One Territory.

Twins Territory. A place where players, fans, vendors and even Mother Nature come together as one. A place to celebrate home runs.

To cheer for your home team. And a place to embrace all that makes us different. Join us each day as we celebrate our community and we celebrate diversity in Twins Territory.

Page 4 • May 28 - June 3, 2012 • Insight News

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AESTHETICS Modern dance documentary pays tribute to Jacob’s Pillow Festival Film Review

By Kam Williams kam@insightnews.com The Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival traces its roots back to the 1930s when it was founded on a farm nestled in the Berkshire Mountains by the legendary Ted Shawn (1891-1972).

Shawn envisioned the retreat as an oasis where modern dance might be practiced, choreographed and performed as a legitimate art form independent of classical ballet.

Other than being derailed by a temporary setback during The Depression, the festival’s stature grew steadily over the ensuing years. In 1942, Shawn built a theater in a converted barn so that patrons could enjoy modern for modern’s sake, independent of the distracting trappings of a big city opera house.

Now celebrating its 80th anniversary, Jacob’s Pillow is a veritable mecca recognized as America’s longest-running dance festival. Directed by Ron Honsa, “Never Stand Still” is an enchanting tribute destined to delight both modern dance devotees and the curious alike.

Narrated by Bill T. Jones, this alternately educational and entertaining

Photo by Christopher Duggan, courtesy of Jacob’s Pillow

The Erica Essner Performance Co-Op performing “Moon Uprising”, as seen in “Never Stand Still”, a film by Ron Honsa. documentary divides its time between concert footage and informative interviews with industry icons such as Merce Cunningham, Bill Irwin, Paul Taylor, Judith Jamison and

Suzanne Farrell. We learn that dance is definitely a calling and not a life for anyone who wants a secure career path, since performers are always just an ingénue or an injury away from

losing the limelight forever.

Jamison reminds the viewer, however, that to reach the top, one must be more than merely technically adept.

One needs to be among those

rarest of talents also capable of touching the human spirit.

Modern dance appreciated as a sacred endeavor enabling one to fly above the fray, if not literally, vicariously, at the

very least.

Excellent (4 stars) Unrated Running time: 74 minutes Distributor: First Run Features

Fun, food, and fellowship on the Andiamo “Fun, food, and fellowship” is the theme on the Andiamo river boat on Monday June 11 as funds will be raised for the St. Thomas Center for Academics and Sports which provides free summer academic and sports camps for

Twin City area youth with an emphasis on serving low income and diverse populations.

The event will feature a buffet dinner, live music, a silent auction, NO SPEECHES –just fun on the St. Croix. Boarding will begin

at 5:30 pm on June 11 at the Andiamo dock on the south end of Main Street in Stillwater with the cruise lasting from 6:00 pm until 8:30. Cruise Tickets are $35.

There will be a raffle with top prizes being a $1000 gift

certificate which can be used on the Andiamo boats or the Lowell Inn or split between the two; and a Minnesota Wild Jersey with authenticated autographs of all members of the 2011-2012 team.

Raffle tickets are $10 each and can be purchased in advance.

Last summer 400 youth from Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the East Metro Integration District were served by the summer camps with over 7000 kids served since 1991.

The largest group of participants (40%) in 2011 were African American, with the balance fairly equally divided between Latinos, Asian Americans, and Caucasians.

The federal government gave money to the NCAA to contract with as many as 200 colleges to put on summer sports camps for low income kids to become familiar with colleges so that they might consider going on beyond high school. The St. Thomas was unique in being the first

Williams From 1 Live on the Drive Regina Marie Williams With Thom West on piano, Dave Karr, sax, Kevin Washington on drums and Jay Young on bass Thursday, June 14 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

One of the most beautiful concert settings in the city: Victory Memorial Parkway at 34 th Avenue North,

smalltowngems.com

college to give equal emphasis on academics and sports. Once the government and the NCAA quit funding programs St. Thomas is one of about 20 still offering the programs by raising their own funds through partnerships, inkind contributions, grants, and

fund raisers.

To buy boat tickets, raffle tickets, make a contribution, or for additional information call Bob Brown at 651-962-4992 or email him at rjbrown@stthomas. edu. Checks should be made out to NYSP-UST.

Minneapolis FREE Pack a picnic, invite your neighbors, bring your friends and walk or roll to Live on the Drive!

Live on the Drive is presented by founding partner, North Memorial, with the Cleveland Neighborhood Association, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, the Northwest Minneapolis Business Association, North End Hardware and The Lowry Café, Camden Music School, NorthNews, Camden Pet Hospital, The

Capri Theater, Washburn McReavy, Emily’s F&M Café, and the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council. This activity is funded, in part, by appropriations from the Minnesota State Legislature with money from the State’s general fund, and its arts and cultural heritage fund that was created by a vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008. (sponsors to date) For more information, call 612-588-1155 or visit www. liveonthedrive.org.

insightnews.com

Insight News • May 28 - June 3, 2012 • Page 5

Schools From 3

Crystal Barnes

Nielsen

Crystal Barnes named Nielsen’s Vice President of Industry Relations

they have a lot going on in their life… Change starts at the top with principals holding school teachers accountable for students’ achievement.

Josh Reimnitz, District 4 candidate, emphasized that we are the adults in this situation, and we are responsible for our children’s education.

“Many parents simply do not understand how to help their children succeed in school,” he said.

Reimnitz said he supports a longer school day “because it would allow more time for recess and for what some tend to see as optional learning— such as music and physical education.”

Teaching: Everyone agrees that teacher effectiveness is especially critical for children furthest behind in

NEW YORK – Crystal Barnes, formerly Director of Industry Relations, was named Vice President of Industry Relations for Nielsen, a leading global provider of information and insights, effective immediately.

In her role, Barnes is responsible for expanding the reach of Nielsen’s thought leadership efforts across the media and consumer industries, focusing on the increasingly diverse and connected consumer.

Barnes began at Nielsen in 2004 as part of the company’s Emerging Leaders Program (ELP). As an Emerging Leader Associate, she was exposed to various industries and expertise across the company. Upon completion of the program, Barnes worked in public affairs and was instrumental in the expansion of Nielsen’s multicultural outreach efforts, strengthening the company’s communications and public affairs program. Since her appointment to the industry relations position, she has developed and managed strategic alliances with industry and business associations within the global business community.

Barnes applies significant strategic and tactical skills to expand and transform the company’s position in the industry, both with traditional and new associations in the digital space.

Prior to joining Nielsen, Barnes held production and communications positions at WHP, a CBS affiliate in Harrisburg, Penn. and Comcast SportsNet in Bethesda, MD. A native of Pennsylvania, she received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Broadcast Telecommunications and Mass Media from Temple University.

Nielsen Holdings N.V. (NYSE: NLSN) is a global information and measurement company with leading market positions in marketing and consumer information, television and other media measurement, online intelligence, mobile measurement, trade shows and related properties. Nielsen has a presence in approximately 100 countries, with headquarters in New York, USA and Diemen, the Netherlands. For more information, visit www.nielsen. com.

Summer

Stadium

people of all races.

The Stadium bill would not have passed without State Senator Rosen or the Wilf family’s leadership and persistence.

We are aligned with the direction that Minneapolis Mayor Rybak, City council members Barb Johnson and Don Samuels and interim Minneapolis CPED director, Chuck Lutz have chartered for the Northside and the Stadium.

First, we use our participation in the development of North Minneapolis to build the capacity of targeted groups to participate.

Next, we spread to the entire twin cities. We focus on building targeted businesses in health,

energy, all construction, and transportation.

Targeted businesses are held accountable in absorbing the hard-to-employ workforce, especially Northside residents where unemployment is 23%.

In our plan, we participate in building the stadium from the beginning through professional and technical consulting.

Within one year, we bring only the best construction workers and businesses with proven capacity to help build the stadium.

We transplant similar industry sector empowerment models to uplift economically distraught communities throughout Minnesota. But the work and business is done by the people who live in those

From 1 Our Northside Nice Plan is made possible through the efforts of many, including Governor Dayton, Commissioner of Transportation, Sorrel and Commissioner of Human Rights Lindsay. There has been strong bi-partisan legislative leadership from Republicans Beard, and Gimse as well as Democrats, Champion, Mullery and Dibble in passing the targeted group business (TGB) legislation for people of color, veterans, women and economically distraught

Curtis Johnson their academic growth from year to year. Current market incentives are working against teachers who are willing to work in priority schools.

Attracting a new generation of highly qualified teachers will require altering the value proposition of the profession and we must remove the barriers that prevent highachieving graduates and professionals, who are interested in teaching but do not have an education degree, from entering the teaching field.

Low-income and

African American children are disproportionately affected by having inexperienced teachers, high teacher turnover, and teachers teaching outside their field of study.

Doug Mann, candidate for the Minneapolis School Board At-Large, said he is painfully aware of the gross inequities that exist due to high teacher turnover and the education access gap. “Student overexposure to new teachers results in a greatly watered down curriculum,” he said. “All students benefit from having experienced teachers…Districts that are able to stabilize their staff see significant improvements in student performance.”

Leadership: Research also shows that school districts headed by strong superintendents and school principals, have been the most effective in closing the achievement gap for their students. Children need to be able to see a light at the

end of the tunnel through job creation and be prepared for a future that none of us can even imagine. There are great leaders in the principals who advocate for their school and set the academic climate of high expectations, they make sure that parents are involved.

Darrell Washington, District 4 candidate, said that access to quality, early education and parent teachercontact are unbelievably important, and complex, issues. “I believe my own daughters were prepared for kindergarten in public schools because of the high expectations my partner and I set for them,” he said. “There traditionally has been an issue of trust, of people believing in the education system and accepting it. I am optimistic that we are moving in the right direction but that we are not moving fast enough. It’s important to have leadership at the top that show they care.

There should be a smoking bubble that people have to go into—like at some airports, to isolate those who have to indulge. With smokers in my family, I know that it is an addiction, and I hope they find a cure soon.

Summer’s music has survived beyond the moment when it was first introduced.

I imagine her in heaven doing a “last dance,” fogging up the place with her sultry voice, and very possibly preparing to rock it with the recently departed Andy Gibbs of the Bee Gees.

Now that’s a performance worth seeing.

From 1 to love you baby,” Summer was able to invoke sensuality, pleasure, and mood, with just a few moans. Now that’s music!

We may never know the cause of Summer’s deadly lung cancer. But if her beliefs are correct, then all of us, not just the environmentalists, must pay attention to how we treat the air we breathe, and better prepare for disasters of any kind that have an impact on our environment. If it wasn’t the toxic particles, but the fault of the cigarettes she smoked or the smoked-filled air she inhaled when performing in clubs, then those who smoke should pay attention how their bad habits impact themselves and others who breathe the air they pollute. I am annoyed every time I walk in front of a public building and become enveloped in smoke by those who stand right in front and blow out their bad habits.

Irma McClaurin, PhD is the Culture and Education Editor for Insight News of Minneapolis. She is a biocultural anthropologist and writer living in Raleigh, NC, the principal of McClaurin Solutions (a consulting business) and a former university president. (www. irmamcclaurin.com) (@ mcclaurintweets) Wikimedia Commons

communities. In all, we remove 2,000 people from taxpayer assistance, permanently, trimming the state budget by $200 million and generating $50 million in new tax revenue in the process. We turn 1,000 foreclosed and vacant houses into energy efficient homes for working families, 500 in the metro area. In our plan $50 million is saved in building the stadium and we guarantee 2,000 season ticketholders.

Our value added convenient, creative, cost saving energy and parking design solutions that will make our Vikings Stadium world-class and save the City of Minneapolis, the Minnesota, and the Vikings owners money.

We plan to run the business

development component through the NAMC’s members and partners. The workforce piece will go through the Minneapolis Urban League, Summit Academy OIC, Twin Cities Rise, the unions, technical colleges and others.

Save this letter and reread it in 2016. If it’s business as usual, token government and contractor programs where numbers are manipulated and front companies rule the day, huge disparities between populations of color and white people will continue But when we are successful, the Northside will become a sustainable center of economic growth for the residents who lived there at the time of the

Tornado.

This is not a governmentrun, sanctioned, or controlled plan. We believe the tornado relief effort was a heroic response to the Northside crisis. But only the people, residents and business owners in our Northside community can empower themselves to create the multiplier effect needed for government programs and private support to work. You cannot do it for us. But you don’t have to live in the community to help. We realize that we need the entire state’s help and support to make it happen. We choose to control our own destiny. Count on us. We need business and work. Can we count on you?

Page 6 • May 28 - June 3, 2012 • Insight News

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HEALTH One family’s journey with Alzheimer’s

By Andrea Parrott, TC Daily Planet The police were called to Ann Small’s home a couple times before her husband was

INSIGHT NEWS www.insightnews.com

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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 Culture and Education Editor Irma McClaurin Director of Content & Production Patricia Weaver Sr. Content & Production Coordinator Ben Williams Production Intern Natalie Benz Distribution/Facilities Manager Jamal Mohamed Facilities Support / Assistant Producer, Conversations with Al McFarlane Bobby Rankin Receptionist Lue B. Lampley Staff Writer Ivan B. Phifer Contributing Writers Cordie Aziz Maya Beecham Harry Colbert, Jr. Brenda Colston Julie Desmond Fred Easter S. Himie Oshana Himot Timothy Houston Marcia Humphrey Alaina L. Lewis 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.

diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Small didn’t know why he was acting so differently, and at times, violently. She rationalized that perhaps the two were just spending too much time together and becoming frustrated with each other. The truth was more devastating. James Small, 82, had Alzheimer’s disease.

James and Ann Small grew up in Galveston, Texas where they met and married 56 years ago. In 1956 they moved to Minnesota. They have one daughter and three grandchildren.

His wife described him as someone who is used to being in control of situations. He worked at a company for 30 years, working his way up from assembler to an engineer.

After retirement James Small worked at a financial company and attended Bethel University for four years to become an ordained Baptist minister. His faith is very important to him and was a theme that ran throughout his conversation. Small taught Sunday school for several years, became a deacon, and served as associate pastor of his church, which the couple has been a part of for 20 years.

Small was very active in his church, starting Bible study groups and visiting a juvenile detention center. “I started teaching them about Christ,” he said about his activities at the detention center. He added, “If I live long enough, we’re going to change how we handle our kids, big time because we don’t teach them nothing. We let the world teach them.”

Even as Alzheimer’s disease has progressed in his body, Small remains confident that there is nothing that happens to him apart from God. He implied hope that the normal progression of Alzheimer’s disease will not

James Small necessarily be his fate. “I don’t worry about stuff because I know He has His hand out for me,” Small said. No matter what happened, he concluded: “My life has been blessed.”

Ann Small said that the signs of Alzheimer’s disease were hard for her to detect, but once he was diagnosed, she could look at events two years before and notice changes.

James Small said that there were no changes in his life, but his wife reminded him of explanations he had given in the past. He used to admit that two years ago he began to feel that something was not right with his mind.

“Dad was concerned about his memory,” said daughter Kathy Small-Rice about the reason the family took him to the doctor. “Things weren’t clear to him.”

She described noticing that her “handy-man” father had difficulty completing projects like painting and hanging blinds. She described a time when he became confused as he made shelves with her husband, and she described a comment he made while he drove on the freeway with her in the car. “He told me that for a moment he didn’t know where he was,” she said.

Courtesy of TC Daily Planet

Small has diabetes and his mother had dementia, two factors linked to higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease. When they took him to his primary physician, the doctor noted that Small’s demeanor was different and that he couldn’t remember how to take his medication.

The doctor referred him to a psycho-neurologist and Small was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in January 2011.

Ann Small said that the doctor referred her to the Alzheimer’s Association, which she accessed to begin learning about the disease.

While she connected with one of the support groups, her husband actively participated in programs through the Alzheimer’s Association.

Small said that she also enjoys the outings that she and her husband attend through the Alzheimer’s Association.

However, she notes that they are the only Black family at the events she has attended.

“As a Black community, we don’t want to talk about it,” she said, as a possible explanation for the lack of Black participation at the Alzheimer’s Association.

Thus far, caring for James

Small has meant making sure that he has something to do. He asserted that he spends most of his time reading the Bible, a favorite activity for him in the past, but Ann Small quietly clarified. He is no longer able to read as much anymore and watches a lot of TV. She said that after a brain hemorrhage in October of 2011 his memory has worsened.

James Small is still fairly independent and can take care of his own needs. He doesn’t drive, so his wife drives him to a weekly men’s breakfast that he started years ago. They regularly attend church, and Ann Small said that friends from church call her sometimes to make sure that things are going well. She didn’t feel that she needed a lot of support yet and looked forward to a trip to Florida with a group of friends. Their grandson will spend the night at their house to help James Small if he needs assistance.

Andrea Parrott is a graduate of Carleton College. She is a reader, deep thinker, and freelance writer. She has written on local news and events, city government, schools, and health. In 2011 Parrott received a MetLife Journalist in Aging Fellowship to write about African Americans and Alzheimer’s disease.

Twitter: andrea_parrott

Help is out there — here’s where to find it For more information about the Memory Loss Support group for African Americans, visit Family Memory Care for African Americans through Volunteers of AmericaMinnesota.

Volunteers of America has other resources for caregivers: Older Adults and Their Caregivers Find links to several resources for caregivers, older adults and their families, visit Wilder Foundation’s Community Services for Aging. You can also call 651280-CARE. A social worker will answer the call or return the call within 24 hours.

Not sure if you’re a caregiver? What is a Caregiver.org will help you learn more.

Alzheimer’s Association has information for caregivers, a support group finder, and a helpline (1-800272-3900).

The National Plan to Address Alzheimer’s Disease includes as part of its goals strategies to support families and caregivers of those with Alzheimer’s disease and to address ethnic and racial health disparities. You can read it here.

insightnews.com

Insight News • May 28 - June 3, 2012 • Page 7

Jimmy Carter, president, peanut farmer and Sunday school teacher

By Kam Williams James “Jimmy” Earl Carter, Jr., the 39th president of the United States, was born on October 1, 1924 in the tiny town of Plains, Ga. His father, James Carter, Sr., was a farmer and businessman, and his mother, Lillian Gordy Carter, was a registered nurse.

Carter was educated in the public school of Plains, attended Georgia Southwestern College and the Georgia Institute of Technology, and received a Bachelor of Science degree from the United States Naval Academy in 1946. On Jul. 7 of that year, he married his childhood sweetheart, Rosalynn Smith.

In the navy, Carter became a submariner, serving in both the Atlantic and Pacific fleets and rising to the rank of lieutenant.

Chosen by Admiral Hyman Rickover for the nuclear submarine program, he was assigned to Schenectady, N.Y. where he did graduate work at Union College in reactor technology and nuclear physics while serving as senior officer of the pre-commissioning crew of the Seawolf.

When Carter’s father died in 1953, the younger Carter resigned his naval commission and returned with his family to Georgia. He took over the family farms and he and Rosalynn operated Carter’s Warehouse, a general-purpose seed and farm supply company.

Carter soon became a leader of the community, serving on county boards supervising education, the hospital authority, and the library.

In 1962 he entered politics, winning election to the Georgia Senate, before becoming Georgia’s 76th governor in 1971.

Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter Carter ran for the highest office in the land and was inaugurated President of the United States on Jan. 20, 1977.

Though criticized for his lack of foreign policy experience and a failed rescue attempt of U.S. hostages held in Iran, significant foreign policy accomplishments of his administration included the Panama Canal treaties, the Camp David Accords, the treaty of peace between Egypt and Israel, the SALT II treaty, which called for the reduction of nuclear arm between the U.S. and the Soviet Union and the establishment of U.S. diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China.

On the domestic front, his administration’s achievements included a comprehensive energy program conducted by a new Department of Energy, deregulation in energy, transportation, communications and finance, major educational programs under a new Department of Education and major environmental protection legislation, including the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act. While in office, he also championed human rights throughout the world.

In 1982, Carter became University Distinguished Professor at Emory University in Atlanta and founded The

Sara Saunders/The Carter Center

Carter Center to engage in conflict mediation all over the world.

Carter and his wife regularly teach Sunday school at Maranatha Baptist Church of Plains.

In 2002, Pres. Carter was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.

The author of 25 books, here, he talks about his latest, “NIV Lessons from Life Bible.”

Insight News: Hi President Carter, I’m really honored to have another opportunity to speak with you.

President Jimmy Carter: It’s a pleasure for me, too. Thank you!

IN: What message do you think people will take away

from the “Lessons from Life Bible?”

JC: I think that what people will get out of these comments in the Bible, and also out of my previous book (“Through the Year with Jimmy Carter: 366 Daily Meditations from the 39th President”) is how pertinent, how important and how applicable the ancient texts are to our modern-day life.

That’s what I try to emphasize in all my Sunday school lessons when I teach at Maranatha Baptist Church. So, I think the main message to remember is that we must accommodate changing times while clinging to unchanging moral values.

That’s why I say the aim is to apply the text to modern-day life.

IN: Are you interested in writing a memoir focusing on your more recent accomplishments?

JC: I’ve already written a book about my more recent accomplishments. It’s called “Beyond the White House.”

IN: (Someone said) you have done more good after leaving office than any other United States president, from traveling the world, to certifying free and open elections, to working with Habitat for Humanity, to traveling to North Korea.

You have become the “Soul of American Diplomacy.” My question is why can’t the other ex-presidents (conduct similar efforts)?

JC: Well, I wouldn’t say they’re wrong, because each one of us is an individual, just like talk show hosts are different from one another, and newspaper columnists are different from each other.

So, former presidents are different from each other, too.

Some have gone into relative seclusion. Some have decided

to teach. In fact, I’m finishing my thirtieth year as a professor at Emory University. I’ve found it very enjoyable and very beneficial to me to keep active.

But I wouldn’t criticize any president who has chosen to take a different route.

IN: Is there a personal moral tension between being a good Christian and being a good Commander of a nuclear submarine? How can an officer – especially one of great faith – reconcile being asked to lead troops into battle with the Fifth Commandment, Thou Shalt Not Kill?

JC: The most important Bible teaching that I remembered when I was in the navy and when I was Commander-in-Chief, was that we worshipped the Prince of Peace. Jesus Christ is the Prince of Peace. So, I considered myself, as a submarine officer, as helping to preserve the peace. And I felt the same way when I was president. As a matter of fact, although we had some terrible challenges and temptations when I was in office, we never dropped a bomb, we never launched a missile and we never fired a bullet. I think that one of the main requirements for a strong military, like a strong submarine force, is to prevent war, not to cause war.

IN: It seems like we are at a point now where books are moving from bound paper to digital media. How will this impact the study and reverence for the Bible?

JC: You can already download any of the religious texts onto electronic mechanisms like a Kindle. But I think many people prefer to hold a book in their hands. We

CARTER TURN TO 9

Suluki Fardan

From left to right: Blanca Monter, Research Specialist - Roy Wilkins Center for Human Relations and Social Justice; Dr. Josie Johnson, Former University of Minnesota Regent; RoseAnn Zimbro, Director of Programs - Roy Wilkins Center for Human Relations and Social Justice; Al McFarlane, Editor-In-Chief, Insight News; Eric Schwartz, Dean, Hubert H. Humphrey School of Public Affairs; Liliya Savkova Makaveeva, Executive Director, Integro Association; Rositsa Zhivkova Ivanova, Secretary at the National Council on Inter-Ethnic Affairs; Daniela Kostadinova Nikkolova, Expert, National Council on InterEthnic Affairs; Ahavni Sarkis Topakbachian, State Expert, National Council on Inter-Ethnic Affairs; Desislava Dimitrova Zamfirova, Chief of Deputy Prime Minister’s Cabinet; Hon. Judge Lajune Thomas Lange; Georgi Nikolaev Krastev, Advisor to the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior.

Bulgarian delegation visits Roy Wilkins institute Former University of Minnesota Regent, Dr. Josie Johnson, and Hubert H. Humphrey School of Public Affairs Dean Eric Schwartz this month welcomed a delegation of governmental and nongovernmental organization (NG) representatives from Bulgaria to the Roy Wilkins Center for Human Relations and Social Justice at the Humphrey School.

The delegations visit to Minnesota was part of a State Department sponsored tour of several US cities to meet with education, public policy and business leaders on the subject of integration and the elimination of racial

and ethnic discrimination.

Members of the Wilkins Center Forum, Judge LaJune Thomas Lange, and Insight Editor Al McFarlane shared insight’s on the nature and legacy of racism and discrimination in current US culture. The Bulgarian delegation focused on that country’s efforts to end discrimination against its largest ethnic minority, the Roma.

Dr. Sam Myers invited the delegation to return to Minnesota in October to participate in the Wilkins Center’s 4th World Conference on Remedies to Racial and Ethnic Economic Inequality, scheduled for October this year.

Page 8 • May 28 - June 3, 2012 • Insight News

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COMMUNITY Calendar • Classifieds Send Community Calendar information to us by: email, natalie@insightnews.com, by fax: 612-588-2031, by phone: (612) 588-1313 or by mail: 1815 Bryant Ave. N. Minneapolis, MN 55411, Attn: Natalie Benz. Free

or low cost events preferred.

Events

Minneapolis Community Summer Events The City of Minneapolis invites and encourages Social Media and Marketing Specialist participation by every Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is acresident to each program, cepting applications for a Social Media and Marketing service and event Specialist to initiate and implement comprehensive and within the city. Events effective social media program, marketing campaigns and media initiatives. Requires Bachelor’s degree and include: Windom Park 5 years of experience. For more information and to apCarnival- Fri., June 1 ply online, visit www.minneapolisparks.org. Deadline http://www.windompark. for applications is noon on 6/4/12. org/ , Loring Park Acoustic Music Festival RENTALS Sat., June 9 http://db.tt/ Delton Manor is accepting applications for dFvvtGgH , Northeast future 1, 2, & 3 Bedrm apartment openings.

Ride Sat. June 2 http:// Delton Manor has 3 two-bedrm handicapped accessible units located in the building. Delton w w w. n o r t h e a s t r i d e .

Manor promotes equal housing opportunities org, and many more for all perspective residents regardless of race, Minneapolis Community color, creed, sex, sexual preference, religion, handicap, marital status, familial status, national events. For more info and origin or source of income. For applications and Mpls Events calendar, qualifications, contact NANCY at 218-759-2523. visit: http://www.

AN EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. minneapolismn.gov/ncr/ calendar/index.htm. For Boy Scout Program Leader American Indian Month Boy Scouts of America seeks coordinator to run youth program up Community Events to 15 hours per week. Will work with African-American boys & parCalendar visit: http:// ents at community sites in Twin Cities. Weekly meetings are held in tinyurl.com/7vqme9p. afternoons/evenings, activities on some weekends. Training will be provided. Compensation: $10/hour + mileage. Req: Willing to be a leader and serve as a positive role model for youth; some experience working with youth ages 7-21; high school diploma with some college preferred; age 21 or older; teaching or Scouting exp. preferred but not required. Must be able to drive to work sites, complete training & paperwork, track participants’ progress in achieving goals, keep accurate records. Must have valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, be able to drive to program sites, & current automobile insurance at levels of $100,000/$300,000/$100,000. Apply: Email resume to agoke@ nsbsa.org, fax to 763-231-7202, or mail to Northern Star Council, Attn: A. Goke, 5300 Glenwood Ave., Minneapolis MN 55422. For more information about Scouting, see www.northernstarbsa.org Equal Opportunity & Veteran Friendly Employer

City of Saint Paul Human Rights and Equal Economic Opportunity Director Salary Range: $94,224 - $129,000 The City of Saint Paul is seeking a visionary and inspirational executive to lead its Department of Human Rights and Equal Economic Opportunity. Functional areas of the department include: human rights enforcement; public bidding; capacity building and outreach; and contract monitoring, investigation and enforcement.

BA/BS degree and seven years of progressively responsible management experience in any of the functional areas listed above required. Advanced degree preferred.

Please review the official position profile at www.stpaul. gov/jobs.asp, email jobs@stpaul.gov, or call 651-2666500 for application information. Deadline: 6/26/12.

An AA/EEO Employer

Wanting to build your summer paddling, mountain biking and trail running skills?

May–June Join the City of Lakes TriClub! Using Minneapolis’ chain of lakes and oneof-a-kind trail network in Theodore Wirth Park, participants will learn from expert instructors the many ways to have fun during a Minneapolis summer. Stay active and expand your recreational horizons.

Club meets Wed. 5/23-6/20, 6–8pm. http://www.loppet.org/ adult-programming/ loppet-tri-club/ We Are Sabathani: Keeping Our History Alive - May 30 An historical event and art exhibit chronicling the

Phone: 612.588.1313

journey of Sabathani from its beginnings as a Baptist church through its evolution today as a nonprofit organization serving 30,000 people a year. Wed. May 30 2pm–7pm at Sabathani Community Center 310 E. 38th St., Mpls. http://www.sabathani. org for more info.

NorthPoint Health & Wellness Center sponsoring open house For new Teen Clinic at PYC May 30 Open house to showcase the New Northside Teen clinic located at PYC, Arts and Technology High School. KMOJ radio will be doing a live broadcast from the site and will be doing on air interviews with the event participants as well as providing music. Refreshments will be provided and all are welcome.

Takes place Wed., May 30 from 4pm–6pm at the clinic located at 2310 Oliver Ave. North MPLS. Tapestry FUNdamentals of Dance-African-based movement May 10, 17, 24, and 31 Tapestry Folkdance Center will be hosting FUNdamentals of Dance: African-based movement with Patricia Brown teaching. 7–8:30pm $8 general, $6 members, $5 students, free admission to kids under 13 (must be supervised by an adult). 3748 Minnehaha Ave Mpls, MN 55406 www.tapestryfolkdance. org Loppet Tri-Club May 23 – June 20 Perfect your paddling strokes, mountain bike maneuvers and trail running skills with this five week course. Get to know the water and trails before the TriLoppet. Boats provided for the Tri Club, but must have own bike and running shoes. Club runs Wed, 6:30 – 8pm, May 23 – June 20. Cost: $50. Contact Ingrid at 612.604.5334 for more info.

Minneapolis Public Schools

Fax: 612.588.2031

Nutrition Center Job Fair May 30 & June 2 Information regarding salary, benefits, and position requirements will be presented at the Job Fair. Applications accepted until June 4.Interviews the week of June 11.

Employment start date Aug. 6.

Candidates who want to apply for the positions at the job fair should bring an electronic copy of their resume and cover letter.

For more info or to apply online visit www.mpls.k12.mn.us and select “careers.” Minneapolis Public Schools strongly encourages diverse candidates to apply. Takes place at 425 5th Street N.E., Minneapolis 55413 May 30, 2pm – 7pm June 2, 9am– 3pm.

The West Broadway Farmers Market: Mid-June–Mid Oct. Northside grown mushrooms, veggies, fruits, sweet bread, quality art, and more. Music, cooking demonstrations (with free samples), physical activities and classes, art activities, health services (i.e. blood pressure checks), and more will take place weekly.

For updates and to sign up for the weekly email newsletter visit www.westbroadway. org or for any questions contact Alicia at 612.353.5178 or at marketmanager@ westbroadway.org Artists Who Cook 2012 and Related Events June 1 & 2 Two days and 3 programs with 9 talented Black artists create a unique fusion of art, food, and soulfulness. Community Conversation: Why Soul Food Restaurants Fail and Healthy Soul Food (free): Fri June 1, 7pm –8:30pm at Sunnyside Deli/ Elite Catering, 1825 Glenwood Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55405.

Artist Talk: Points Past and Present – The Works of Larry Walker (free): Sat. June 2, 11am –12:30pm at Obsidian Arts, 3501 Chicago Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55407. Artists Who Cook ($40): Sat. June 2 5pm –8pm at Marquette Place, 1314 Marquette Avenue, 35th floor, Minneapolis, MN 55403.

For more info 612.787.3644 obsidianarts@gmail.com.

African Nights 2012, African’s in the Snow June 1 & 2 Two evenings of African inspired performance as well as refreshments, trivia, and prizes, hosted by Ms. Kenna and Auntie Beverly as the storyteller.

Diverse lineup of local artists sharing their work around the theme “Africans in the Snow.”

Performances by spoken word artist IBé, Voice of Culture Drum and Dance, and vocalist Paul Maybon, among others.

8pm Patrick’s Cabaret 3010 Minnehaha Ave S Mpls MN 55406 $10 general admission $15 V.I.A. advance tickets at www.voiceofculturedance.com Twin Cities Bike Walk Week June 2–10 Organizers are challenging residents to pledge to bike or walk to work, school, errands, or fun, rather than drive for at least one trip during that week.

Bike Walk Week is packed with activities to generate

Email: natalie@insightnews.com

enthusiasm and participation, Like Thurs. June 7 unveiling of new USPS bicycle stamp, with stamps available for the first time in the nation at this event. To learn about the variety of daily events and to register visit: www.bikewalkweek.org.

Celebration of Bikes, Art, Games, and Community: The Northeast Ride, June 2 Creative cycling tour of Northeast Minneapolis. The ride will tour past historical landmarks like the Casket Arts Building and the Grain Belt Brewery. June 2 10am–2pm Starting and ending with registration tables, speakers, and ride info at Northeast Armory (across from Beltrami Park For more information, visit www.northeastride.org Reggae on The River Boat Ride: Special Jamaica 50 Edition June 9 Main door prize: hotel stay for 2 in Jamaica. Benefit for JMO Scholarship Program.

21+ (ID Required) Sat. June 9. Boarding 8:30pm (rain or shine) at Harriet Island, St. Paul. Contribution -$30 Adv, $35 at the Boat: Covers the Boat Ride Fee – Musical Entertainment – Door Prizes.

Tickets available at: Guyam Grocery – 612.522.9222, Harry Singh’s - 612.729.6181, Marla’s Cuisine – 612.724.3088, Black Dog Restaurant - 651.228.9274, Urban Lights Music – 651.647.9650. More info http:// www.orgsites.com/mn/jmo/ Women Vessel Ministries Fellowship: “Royal Bride” June 9 Workshops for women, door prizes, prayer, testimonies, healing, uncovering issues that women face. Light breakfast and lunch will be served. Sat. June 9, Registration 8am – 8:45am and program 9am – 3pm at 245 Ruth Suite 107 St. Paul, Mn 55119. Women of all Races and Ethnicities are encouraged to attend. White attire requested.

Suggested donation of $10.00 Limited to 40 spaces. Please RSVP BY: May 18, 2012. Please contact for more information: Maisha Barrett barrettmaisha@ gmail.com 651-815-2896 or Jennifer Lewis-Watson jenniferlewiswatson@yahoo. com 651-734-8575.

Supernatural the stage playJune 9 and 10 Directed by William Johnson, Supernatural, is an enchanting and amusing stage play centered around Guardian Angels. Sat. June 9, 7:30pm and Sun June 10, 3pm at the Empowerment Center, 5801 John Martin Drive, Brooklyn Center, MN 55430. Tickets $20.00 and can be purchased at www.afterworkprogram.com or 312.488.9311.

A night on the St. Croix river “Fun, food, and fellowship” June 11 St. Thomas Center for Academics and Sports which provides free summer academic and sports camps for Twin City area youth with an emphasis on serving low income and diverse populations is holding

a fun fund raiser. The event will feature a buffet dinner, live music, a silent auction, NO SPEECHES –just fun on the St. Croix. Boarding will begin at 5:30pm on June 11 at the Andiamo dock on the south end of Main St. in Stillwater with the cruise lasting from 6pm until 8:30pm. Cruise Tickets are $35. To buy boat tickets, raffle tickets, make a contribution, or for additional info, call Bob Brown at 651.962.4992 or at rjbrown@stthomas.edu Public Hearing for the Bottineau Transitway preferred route June 12 The Bottineau Transitway is a proposed 13-mile transit line serving the cities of Minneapolis, Golden Valley, Robbinsdale, Crystal, New Hope, Brooklyn Park, Maple Grove and Osseo.

Residents, business owners and neighborhood groups and others interested in speaking at the public hearing are encouraged to sign up ahead of time by calling Maggie at 612.348.9260 or you can sign-up at the public hearing. There is a three-minute limit for each speaker, so please prepare accordingly. Hearing is at 5pm June 12, in the Hennepin County Board Room, A-2400, 300 S. Sixth St., MPLS. It’s the BIG FIVE for Live on the Drive!

June 14, July 12, Aug 9 Celebrate by packing a picnic, bringing your family and inviting your friends to the fabulous fifth anniversary summer concerts on June 14, July 12 and Aug 9. The free concerts are held from 6 to 8pm on Victory Memorial Drive at 34th Avenue North in Minneapolis.

For further information, call 612-588-1155 or see www. clevelandneighborhood.org Regina Marie Williams is Live on the Drive June 16 With Thom West on piano, Dave Karr, sax, Kevin Washington on drums and Jay Young on bass Thur. June 14., 6– 8pm. Victory Memorial Parkway at 34th Avenue North, Minneapolis.

FREE, For more information, call 612.588.1155 or visit www. liveonthedrive.org.

MPR presents Tying the Knot: Songs for Our Fathers June 16 Emmy-winning actor T. Mychael Rambo curates and hosts an evening’s celebration of the unbreakable bonds that connect the richness of African-American culture to the vital and universal role of fathers and fatherhood in our communities. Sat. June 16 8pm at the Fitzgerald Theater in St. Paul. Tickets $32 and MPR members receive a discount.

For tickets call MPR box office at 651.290.1200.

2012 Juneteenth Celebration June 16 Saturday, June 16, 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. at North Mississippi Regional Park, 5114 North Mississippi Drive, Minneapolis.

This year’s theme is “Building the Future.” The Juneteenth Festival observes the June 19th 1865 proclamation of the abolition of slavery in Texas. This celebrates the freedom for people of all racial backgrounds. Schedule: 12:30pm to 1pm: Exotic Animals Petting Zoo Creative Creatures Live Animals Presents: Noah’s Ark. 1:30pm to 2:30pm: African Exhibit Bi-Okoto African Drumming & Dancing. 3pm to 4pm: Free Ice Cream for Kids. 4pm to 6pm Step Show and other Activities 6pmto 10pm DJ in the Park. Autographs by Yeremiah Bell Formally of the Miami Dolphins. 4pm Gospel Celebration. Vendor Deadline is May 31st, 2012 at 12:00 noon. Questions: 612.238.3733 or send email to info@ juneteenthminnesota.org Youth Employment Forum June 19 Open forum to discuss how the residents of Brooklyn Park can work with teens and young adults in finding work in this tough economy.

Parents of teens, community organizations, and teens and young adults encouraged to attend. Tue., June 19, 6-7:30pm at Brooklyn Park City Hall 5200-85th Ave N Brooklyn Park, MN 55443. For questions contact Kendra Kuhlmann KuhlmannK@district279.org or Samantha Brown Samantha. brown@brooklynpark.org

insightnews.com

Carter From 7 recently gave my daughter, Amy, a new electronic device, but since she used to work in a library, she still insists on reading exclusively from books. I take my Bible with me to church every Sunday to teach the Bible lesson. I do that whenever I’m in Plains, oh, about 35 to 40 times a year. So, I think that for many people, particularly when reading Holy Scriptures, a Bible you can hold in your hands is most appropriate.

IN: Do you see any parallels between the lead-up to the 1980 Presidential Election and the 2012 campaign?

JC: Not really. Back in those days, we didn’t have massive sums of money pouring in.

We never ran any negative advertisements.

I always referred to President Ford during the 1976 campaign as “my distinguished opponent.”

That was all. And I behaved the same way as an incumbent, when Ronald Reagan ran against

Insight News • May 28 - June 3, 2012 • Page 9 me in 1980. And the amount of money we raised against each other from special interest groups and from lobbyists for the general election was zero. Neither President Ford, nor Governor Reagan nor I ever raised a single dollar from them to run against each other in the general election.

Sadly, all of that has changed.

What this massive infusion of more money into the political campaign has caused is a mammoth increase in negative ads. That’s a tragedy, in my opinion, and a step backwards for the political system of our country.

IN: (Someone) read in the Wall Street Journal that not since Herbert Hoover has a party out of power had such an opportunity to run against everything that troubles the American family—prices, interest rates, unemployment, taxes, fear of the future, etcetera. Do you think the Republican Party will employ that strategy against an Obama administration which seems vulnerable in terms of both foreign and domestic policy?

JC: Well, I’m not a political

strategist, and I’m certainly not one for the Republican Party.

[Chuckles] I will say that any incumbent president has to run on his record, and President Obama has had a very limited number of accomplishments so far. But he’s been handicapped by the lack of any cooperation on the part of the Republicans who serve in the House and Senate. So, Congress has been an obstacle to President Obama.

I think the American people will be able to ascertain as the election approaches who is to blame for the stalemate and who deserves credit for the best proposals for the future.

IN: How should we as Americans and as voters work to overcome the sometimes hateful tone of our politics today?

JC: Unfortunately, every American citizen takes the same position, that we don’t like negative advertisements.

But they work! And, as you see, many a candidate has prevailed by tearing down the reputation of an opponent in a more advantageous position. I think that the best approach would be if the American people ever insist that we cut down on the massive amounts of money that moves into the campaigns from special interest groups, and if we resist publicly by saying “No more negative advertisements that destroy the reputations of one’s opponents.” In the meantime, just don’t pay any

attention to negative ads, if you can avoid them, and try to focus on the issues.

IN: (A reader asks) what is something that every Godbelieving American could do this year to bring more stability and safety to the youth of the country?

JC: I think all of us could insist on preserving the truth and preserving the peace. We could insist that political candidates tell the truth about controversial issues. And secondly, we should be sure to encourage our political leaders, after they’re elected, to preserve the peace.

My latest book, of course, is about the Bible. I worship as a Christian. I worship the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ. He’s not the Prince of War. That’s why it really aggrieves me when I sometimes see fellow believers lobbying to start a war over something minimal when the peaceful approach might be the best. I was lucky enough to get through four years in office under very trying circumstances. We never dropped a bomb, we never launched a missile, and we never fired a bullet in anger. And we not only resolved our problems peacefully, but we promoted peace between adversarial nations. For instance, Egypt and Israel had been at war four times in the quarter-century before I became president, and I was able to negotiate a peace treaty between them that has

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held up for over 33 years. So, I think peace and telling the truth are the keys.

IN: (Another reader) asks, based on your Biblical worldview, should the U.S. support Israel, militarily, at any cost?

JC: I tried to eliminate the need for Israel to strike out, militarily, by removing its major threat and attacker, and that was Egypt. I’ve written a few books on the subject. There’s no doubt that the best way to resolve Israel’s problems is to negotiate peace between Israel and its immediate neighbors, particularly the Palestinians.

And that’s something that’s not going to be achieved, in my opinion, without the strong involvement of the American president. I hope that President Obama, during his second term, will insist upon a peaceful resolution of the issues that divide the Israelis from their neighbors, and bring about a two-state solution with the (19)67 borders as modified by a common agreement that would let the Palestinians and the

Israelis and the Jordanians and the Lebanese and the Egyptians live in peace.

IN: (That same reader) also asks: What is your favorite bible verse and why?

JC: As a Christian, like a lot of other Christians, my favorite is John 3:16, where it explains in the Bible that God loves us all so much that he gave his only son to die and save us from our sins. Another favorite verse of mine is the one that says, “Be ye kind one to another.”

As I’ve already mentioned, I also like the ones that refer to Jesus promoting peace. And I like the one that Paul described to the Galatians which says that everybody is equal in the eyes of God – servants and masters, men and women, Jews and Gentiles; that every human being is equal to each other in the eyes of God. IN: (Finally, another reader asks) what words of wisdom might you have for President Obama?

JC: Tell the truth and promote the peace.

Page 10 • May 28 - June 3, 2012 • Insight News

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EDUCATION Reflecting on the anniversary of last year’s tornado Building Creative Capital

By Bernadeia H. Johnson MPS Superintendent May 22 marks the one year anniversary of the tornado that hit north Minneapolis and devastated a community.

Thousands of residents were affected by this unfortunate disaster, many of whom are part of the Minneapolis Public Schools family.

I want to acknowledge the amazing efforts put forth by the students, staff and community members in our schools and across the city that provided relief for families impacted by the tornado. Although many are still hurting from the aftermath of the storm and there is still work that needs to be done, I am impressed by the progress that has been made and by the steadfast resilience of those in the community.

Many of our students see their school as an anchor when their world may be caught up in a whirlwind, as it was last year. I have been proud to see Minneapolis Public

Schools staff collaborate not only with each other, but with north side community organizations, Hennepin County, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, the city of Minneapolis and countless others to support the recovery efforts.

Throughout the 2011-2012 school year, we have provided individualized support to our students while continuing to connect our families to generous community agencies that are able to provide additional support and aid.

Our schools have done so much to support our students this year. One example, Lucy

Laney, a school located in the heart of the disaster area, created a 4-week severe weather unit integrating literacy, writing and math to help students cope and prepare for future severe weather situations.

Those lessons include critical analysis of weather-related articles, journaling about the emotional impact of last year’s tornado and analyzing data, charts and graphs of daily weather observations. Principal David Branch told me that his staff members hope that these lessons will give students the knowledge and skills necessary to be prepared in the event of another storm.

Summer reading tips School is almost out for the summer, but how can parents help kids avoid a “summer slump” in reading skills?

Here are a few tips to keep kids ready for learning in the fall, courtesy of Minnesota Reading Corps, the nation’s largest state AmeriCorps program that provides trained literacy tutors for at-risk children age three through grade three.

Make reading a habit Read to your child for 15 minutes or more every day, at different intervals so reading becomes a routine.

Make friends with letters Play the “alphabet game.” Think of words that start with the same letter or the same sound, then take turns coming up with as many different words or sounds as possible.

Make words part of your routine Find new and different words every day and write them down, talk about their meanings and try

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to use them throughout the day.

By the end of the summer, your child will have improved his or her

vocabulary by 100 words or more.

To learn more or to tell others about becoming an AmeriCorps

literacy tutor with Minnesota Reading Corps, visit www. joinreadingcorps.org.

As we plan our upcoming move to north Minneapolis, I am honored that the new Davis Center will be a part of the north Minneapolis neighborhood.

The way the neighbors and the community have come

together to lift one another up despite the tragic circumstances is inspiring, and it is just the support that our students need to continue striving to achieve their dreams in pursuit of college and a career.

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Insight News • May 28 - June 3, 2012 • Page 11

FULL CIRCLE

What does it mean to be humble?

Man Talk

By Timothy Houston “…And what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8) I few years ago, I participated in a Bible study at work that provided some wonderful insight on the topic of pride and humility.

I have always been a person with a high sense of self esteem, and I believed that it was this confidence in self that allowed me to be successful in life. As I matured, I acknowledged that it was also my ego and pride that fueled me. But now more than ever, I feel the need to work on my humility. What does it mean to be humble? Perhaps you have heard the story of the parishioner who received recognition for being the humblest man in the church? They gave him a pin to wear. The following Sunday he wore it and they took it away from him for being proud. One wonders sometimes if humility is like this. As soon as we think we are humble, we are not.

Although humility is not easily attainable, it can be attained. Biblically speaking, personal humility carries the notion of lowering or abasing oneself in such a manner as to attain a place of meekness. This

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is the ability to acknowledge that your strength, talents, and abilities come from someone greater than yourself. You must know that you have been given a gift and with meekness and humility you must share it with others. Perhaps the best way to understand humility is attempting to see ourselves through God’s eyes rather than our own. “…For by grace you have been saved through faith;

and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9).

The following is a list of a few suggestions I have gleaned from others on how to humble yourself.

Take wrong patiently. (1 Peter 3:8-17) This has been a difficult one for me. When something is unjust I want to react and rectify it. However, patiently responding

to the unjust accusations and actions of others demonstrates our strength of godly character and provides an opportunity to put on humility.

Receive correction and feedback from others graciously.

(Proverbs 10:17, 12:1) In the Phoenix area, a local East Valley pastor was noted for graciously receiving any negative feedback or correction offered. He would

simply say “thank you for caring enough to share that with me, I will pray about it and get back to you.” Look for the kernel of truth in what people offer you, even if it comes from a dubious source.

Choose to serve others.

(Philippians 1:1, 2 Corinthians 4:5, Matthew 23:11) When we serve others, we are serving God’s purposes in their lives. Doing so reduces our focus on ourselves.

Purposely speak well of others.

(Ephesians 4:31-32) Saying negative things about others puts them “one down” and you “one up”…a form of pride. Speaking well of others edifies them and builds them up. Remember, you cannot keep another person down without staying down yourself.

Be quick to forgive. (Matthew 18: 21-35) Forgiveness is possibly one of the greatest acts of humility we can do. To forgive is to acknowledge a wrong that has been done to us and also to further release our right of repayment for the wrong. Forgiveness is not insisting on our way and our justice. Forgiveness is denial of self.

True humility cannot be obtained without acknowledging the work God has done in your life. The noted preacher, Charles Spurgeon, defined humility as,” making a right estimate of one’s self.” Another noted speaker stated that, “Humility is not denying the power or gift you have, but admitting that the gift is from God and the power comes through you and not from you.”

After World War II, Winston Churchill humbly commented that, “I was not the lion, but it fell to me to give the lion’s roar.”

It is with this affirmation that we humbly do what we do.

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

Page 12 • May 28 - June 3, 2012 • Insight News

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Point • Counterpoint The church and the gay marriage issue

By Dr. John E. Warren, Sr. Pastor, Eagle’s Nest Christian Center, San Diego, Ca. There has been so much said about the issue of “Gay Marriage” that it appears that the whole reason for “marriage as we know it has been lost in the discussion. I would like to provide a brief reminder because this topic is not one of “political correctness, but one of what God’s law says.

First, marriage as we know it, according to biblical

teaching is a relationship between a man and a woman.

Those of us who profess belief in God’s word as recorded in the Bible accept Genesis 2:22, 23, and 24 which says “And the rib, which the Lord God, had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. And Adam said, this is now bone of my bone, and flesh of my flesh, she shall be called woman, because she was taken out of Man. Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.”

God’s ideal plan for

marriage is one man for one woman for one lifetime. This union has become a family when children are born to it and it takes a man and a woman to produce children which are a reflection of both parents.

When God created the animals, he made them male and female for the purpose of continuing their species. So God set in the beginning Adam and Eve and not Adam and Steve.

Marriage is a “covenant relationship”. A covenant is different from a contract, even though marriage is reference by law as a “marriage contract”.

A contract requires an offer,

acceptance of the offer and mutual consideration by the parties for a “specified” time.

A covenant, by definition is more than a contract. It is an agreement—both spiritual and physical—entered into by both parties for life. It can only be broken by the death of one of the two making it.

A covenant involved blood, and today the only difference is, it is symbolic. In the ancient world, an animal was killed and divided in half, the covenantmaking parties walked through the blood signifying that only death and blood could break the agreement. When God made

his covenant with Abraham, he required Abraham to take a heifer of three years old, a she-goat of three, a male ram of three years old, and a turtle dove and a pigeon place them on an altar and “divide” them down the middle (Genesis 15 chapter).

Circumcision was important to the marriage covenant.

When God established circumcision for the Hebrew male child on the eighth day of his life, cutting away of the fore skin represented that male generation’s blood contribution to one’s personal covenant with God. The act of consummation

of marriage with sex between the man and woman for the first time resulted in the breaking of the hymen. Her bleeding represented her blood contribution to the union that now made them “one flesh” between a man and woman as was written in Genesis 2:24.

The marriage “vows’ traditionally taken are consistent with covenant.

Notice they end with “until death do you part”. This is a lifetime commitment which was not intended for divorce, but man made divorce

MARRIAGE TURN TO 13

Open letter to President Obama on gay marriage

By Pastor Bobby Scott Special to the NNPA from the LA Watts Times With all due respect, Mr. President, your position to advocate redefining marriage is dangerously wrong. If I may, please let me, as carefully as I can, clarify my position so that I am not misunderstood as a hatemongering bigot.

The Bible teaches that God made male and female equal, in His likeness, and different by design so that a male and a female could unite in one flesh and procreate. Even atheists agree that any definition of marriage

Pastor Bobby Scott

NNPA

must include a male and female.

Today, those affirming marriage between a male and female are not trying to discriminate against anyone’s rights. They are seeking valid compelling answers to the questions: why change the definition of marriage? and on what moral basis should it be changed?

Contrary to the contention of the left, love alone is not enough to validate the radical position of overthrowing the God-given, ageless definition of marriage.

If love is the sole criterion for marriage, then would the left call all Americans who oppose polygamy hatemongers who want to deny polygamists their

right to happiness? All societies must place some boundaries around the definition of marriage, and no modern society has so radically sought to alter that definition as America today.

Second, as an African American, I am stunned that you would cloak gay marriage with the heritage of civil rights. The legal protection that homosexuals have today strongly argues against any need to classify homosexuals as a group that warrants the special legal attention granted to blacks through the civil rights movement. Yes, it is evil when homosexuals are bullied and attacked for being gay. BUT what court (for that matter job,

school, media outlet etc.) in America would not prosecute such perpetrators of that bigotry with anything less than the full weight of the law? How does that remotely compare to the smiling-in-court, cigar smoking, celebrating murderers of Emmett Till who walked out of court FREE?! It is simply wrongheaded to try to equate the legal status of both groups.

Finally, Mr. President, as a professing Christian, you should know from the Gospel that while Jesus loves all sinners (homosexuals & heterosexuals), He is also Holy and He does not allow sinners of any to sort define what is right in their own eyes.

Jesus calls all sex outside of the monogamous covenant union of marriage between one man and one woman sin. Jesus’ loving response to sinners was to pay the debt that we never could and to give His righteousness to all who believe in Him as a gift of His grace. So any heterosexual or homosexual who turns from their sin to trust exclusively in Him, Jesus will save. Mr. President, I pray that you will see the error of your decision and reaffirm what you once said you believed and all the cultures of human history have affirmed—marriage is the covenant union designed (not evolved) by God between one man and one woman.

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Insight News • May 28 - June 3, 2012 • Page 13

If gays want to marry, who are we to judge?

Nobody Asked Me

By Fred Easter I’m having a little trouble understanding why there’s

all this flap about “marriage equality.”

I read somewhere that half of all marriages end in divorce.

Not surprisingly, all of mine have. No one in their right mind should care about my opinion on who they should marry.

If loving, consenting adults want to share their lives and their troth, who am I to say them nay? Who is anyone to weigh in?

We are our brother’s keeper,

but, decidedly not his opinion.

Would somebody help me understand who it is that has something to lose if same sex couples had the same rights as heterosexual ones? Whose ox gets gored? Is it employers or insurers? Who is it that sees dollar signs in this issue? Or, could it be, some Americans think when “freedom” is mentioned, it is a reference to their freedom to decide who

or what everyone else in the country and the world worships, believes, does or does not do?

These are probably the same people who made interracial marriage illegal in years past. I do not do research for my pieces –no surprise to most of you. But, I would not be surprised if some of those laws are still on the books in some states.

And, speaking of freedom; why should not fully grown

adults have the freedom to decide how big a family they want, and when to time the arrivals? For that matter, nearly grown adults should have that freedom too.

It is often a freedom even more important for these younger, potential parents.

I have always been more concerned about improving the lives and reducing the abuse of those young people who are with us.

Given the current condition of the planet and the impact humans are having on it, every birth should be a truly “blessed event.”

I am opposed to people having the freedom to shoot me for being brown and wearing a hoodie. But, I do concede their right to plan their families and their love lives without considering how I decide to vote.

Misuse of the Bible in the gay rights debate

By Bill Fletcher, Jr. NNPA Columnist In the aftermath of President Obama’s statement in support of gay marriage there was a lengthy article in the Washington Post regarding the potential impact that this might have on his base.

The article included interviews with two African Americans, both of who had been Obama supporters in 2008. As a result

Marriage From 12 necessary, not God (divorce is a topic for another discussion).

How does man change that which God has instituted since marriage between a man and a woman is a covenant relationship “ordained” by God? There can be no marriage relationship between two men or two women when marriage itself is by definition

of this announcement, one of them said that he is going to vote for Romney in order to be true to God. I found myself very perplexed by this statement. I want to make sure that I get it right. This individual has decided that it is OK with God for him to vote for someone who wants to make the poor poorer, quite possibly take us into a war of aggression with Iran, and is, himself, a member of a religious sect that until not very long ago thought that Black folks

had no place in their religion. Am I missing anything?

This character is illustrative of a much larger problem that needs to be addressed forthrightly.

There is a very selective use of The Bible when it comes to addressing matters relative to women and gays/lesbians. One such example that has been making the rounds on the Web has to do with Deuteronomy, and specifically, Chapter 22. If you are not up on Deuteronomy, among other things it says that if a woman is not a

virgin at the time of her marriage that she can be killed.

I found myself thinking about Deuteronomy in connection with the statement by the African American quoted in the Post. I asked myself, how selectively does this individual interpret The Bible? Does this person, for instance, believe that we should currently implement that section of Deuteronomy? If not, why?

There is nothing new about selective interpretations of The Bible. Growing up, my father

would regularly remind me that White supremacists claimed that Black people are the children of Ham and that we are Black because we are cursed. My father would point out that it did not matter to them that the Bible does not say that. The White supremacists wanted to believe this and they would find a way to connect that with their interpretation of God and God’s word.

I find it very disturbing that people continue to hide behind

The Bible in order to justify their own set of prejudices and demons.

Even otherwise very good people will offer a selective use of The Bible and I continue to find it very perplexing. Consider, for a moment, the amount of time that The Bible places on the question of injustice and the plight of the poor. I may be wrong but I do not remember Jesus focusing a great deal of attention on who

and nature—a covenant relationship that God has established between a man and a woman.

It is written in Leviticus that homosexuality is a sin punishable by death in the Old Testament. In the New Testament, according to the Book of Roman’s, it causes God to give up those who practice it to their “reprobate minds.”

Identifying one’s conduct as sinful does not mean that God hates the sinner. He loves the sinner, but hates the sin.

And because he hates all

sin, he is bound by his word to impose judgment. This does not mean that some of us are better than others. Roman’s 3:23 says that “all have sinned and come short of the glory of God” What is different is that God does allow forgiveness of sin.

Man has the power and ability to establish “civil unions” between same-sex persons and to call such Unions contracts, but those must be outside of the church since they are in conflict with God’s word.

God’s word on this issue is not

“evolving”. It is set by God. Man cannot change what God has created to suit his or her comfort level.

The fact that a same sex couple can adopt children by law does not make that arrangement a “family”. God has already defined “mother and father”. Man can’t change this fact through “political correctness”. The fact that at least eight states “permit” “gay marriage” does not mean that it’s okay with God. There is no gay marriage issue. There is for the church only the issue of

what God says, and what man is willing to accept.

Why do we deny samesex marriage and put such emphasis on what the Bible teaches? In 2 Timothy the Apostle Paul writes: “I charge, thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom, preach the word.

Be instant in season, and out of season. Reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine, for the time will come when they will not endure

sound doctrine. But after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears. And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. Finally, “all scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness,” (Timothy 3:16).

Since God allows us to make choices as to how we live, we can do no less for each other. But permission, is not acceptance.

BIBLE TURN TO 14

Page 14 • May 28 - June 3, 2012 • Insight News

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BUSINESS Getting healthy on the job without breaking a sweat Plan Your Career

By Julie Desmond julie@insightnews.com Curvy Jaleasa was surprised when her new manager described his leadership style as, “Healthy.” She envisioned the team holding hands around the conference table humming and opening up about their feelings. Or, worse, could it be jumping rope every morning in the office? Jaleasa had no interest in changing her lifestyle.

Sure, diabetes was on her radar, friends had been talking about it lately. But she generally made good food choices, she walked to work on nice days, and she was happy with her full figure. No changes needed, and certainly no changes driven by a new, granola peddling manager.

But she did not want to change jobs, either.

She decided to wait and see. The team overall was diverse in age and in fitness level, but they didn’t need to worry. Far from calisthenics or kumbaya, what the manager had in mind was incorporating simple, healthy moments into business as usual.

The first week, he added lowfat yogurt, apple slices and

bottled water to the vending machines.

He picked up bran muffins, clementines and, again, water, instead of pastries for the regular morning meeting.

Noting the slim selection, someone ran out for donuts, but the manager said nothing, and the donuts went mostly untouched.

The manager introduced stand up meetings, bringing in a stool for someone who was unable to stand comfortably.

Standing through a meeting meant the discussion went quickly and people returned to their desks invigorated.

Quick laps were another new idea for this team. When anyone stopped by his office

with a question or for a chat, the manager stood up, and together they headed down the hall and out the front door of the building. A five minute trek was usually enough to help a team member think through an issue, and both went back to their desks refreshed.

Initially, frequent walks seemed impractical, but the team got used to it. Two things happened as a result of quick laps. The manager knew that if someone stopped in, they truly needed his attention, because they knew they were going to get it in full. Also, nonsmokers on the team appreciated the opportunity to slip out of the office for five minutes on a

pleasant afternoon.

Occasionally, the manager called a quick lap for no special reason. Team members could go or stay, but Jaleasa welcomed the five minute break and usually chose to join in.

The healthy manager did not introduce fitness goals, weight discrimination or mandatory blood pressure checks. He did not invite massage therapists into the office. He did not bring in a treadmill desk.

What he did do was simply introduce opportunities for team members to refresh and recharge throughout the day.

He modeled healthy choices himself, but did not comment

either way when cookies appeared in the break room.

Approximately 12% of our population has been diagnosed with diabetes, and according to the American Diabetes Association, every 17 seconds, another new case is diagnosed.

Five minute walks and a bottle of water instead of a soda… these do not seem like much, but they can be excellent first steps toward keeping a team healthy, refreshed and attentive.

Julie Desmond is a Certified Staffing Professional and Talent Manager for Express Employment Professionals. Send your career planning questions to Julie@lakeregionstaffing.com.

Flex your (political) muscles Dissecting Diversity

By Cheryl Pearson-McNeil November is only six short months away, so the 2012 campaign for the White House is moving full-speed ahead.

Because we live in the miracle of this fantastically dizzying digital

age with news and information at our fingertips and coming at us from infinite sources; and because more than 274 million Americans are connected to the Internet, you probably won’t be surprised that we have converged upon the Internet for any and all tidbits surrounding the presidential candidates since the beginning of the year. Even though Mitt Romney is the presumed Republican nominee, I think it’s fascinating to see which candidates attracted the most visitors to their sites. Don’t you?

Aw, come on, aren’t you a little

curious?

Nielsen recently profiled the voter-age audience (18+) to see who was checking out which of the (once upon a time not so long ago) five presidential candidates.

The sample was extensive, covering 15 different sites during January 2012, including: ABCNEWS Digital Network, CBS News Network, CNN Digital Network, Daily Kos, drudgereport.com, Fox News Digital Network, Google News, Huffington Post, MSNBC Digital Network, NPR, NYTimes.com, Politico, USATODAY.com, Wall

Street Journal Digital and Yahoo!

News Websites. Any of those among your favorites?

In January, President Obama’s site received more unique American adult visitors than the four Republican candidates’ sites combined. (“Unique” is defined by web analytics as unduplicated or counting only once to a website over a specified time period, as opposed to “new” or “returning.”)

Hispanics comprised 17% of MittRomney.com, 37% more Hispanics than were active online during the entire month of

January 2012 (12%).

RickSantorum.com attracted the lion’s share of women visitors (60%), which was the largest male/female split among the candidates.

Interestingly, 76-year-old Ron Paul, the oldest of the Republican hopefuls, drew the youngest visitors. More than a third of his hits were from members of the 18-34 group.

Though it was almost neck-andneck with Newt Gingrich with male visitors, 56% and 51%, respectively, RonPaul2012.com won by 4.3 percentage points.

Newt Gingrich’s website guests were the most affluent and educated. Twenty-seven percent reported earnings of more than $100K and half had either a Bachelor’s or Post-Graduate degree.

The analysis of why American voters visit which sites is up to the political pundits.

Part of the research Nielsen conducted also focused on the News & Information sites that feature political content. Are you surprised to learn that Google News wins the race for the highest concentration of young visitors, those 18-24? Survey results showed that 23% more 1834 year olds visited Google News in January 2012 than were active online. (It is heartening to me to know that our young people are interested, engaged and involved in our political process. My son is only a few years away from legally casting his first vote.

Sigh.) More results:

The next age demographic, Americans 25-49, are most likely to visit Politico and Drudge Report (31%).

Of all the sites studied, NPR enjoyed the largest growth in visitors (up 21% since October 2011).

28% of visitors to Wall Street Journal Digital have a household income of $100K or more.

Surfers who land on the Drudge Report page were most likely to have a Bachelor’s degree, which is more than double the percentage of all active college grad Internet users (36% vs. 17%).

College graduates were more likely to visit a specific candidate’s site than visit a News & Information site.

I’m always telling you that knowledge is power, and stressing how you wield power as consumers and how important it is that we pick and choose to use that power wisely. Well, I hope you don’t tire of hearing me stress this point. This election is important – no matter which side of the political aisle you may stand on. Read. Watch. Listen.

Learn – so you can make the most informed decision possible.

The choice and power are in your hands.

Bible

dividing line but can turn a blind eye to the forces in this society that ravage the poor and promote war? What are we to make of those who have decided that gay marriage is against God’s word but are silent on Deuteronomy?

Just asking.

From 13 was marrying whom but it is clear that Jesus was very concerned about the poor and sick. He was very concerned about the money changers. And he was very concerned about the Romans who were oppressing the Hebrews.

What are we to make of those who have decided that gay marriage is the once and forever

Cheryl Pearson-McNeil is senior vice president of Public Affairs and Government Relations for Nielsen. For more information and studies go to www. nielsenwire.com

Bill Fletcher, Jr. is a Senior Scholar at the Institute for Policy Studies, the immediate past president of TransAfrica Forum, and the co-author of Solidarity Divided. He can be reached at papaq54@hotmail.com.

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