Insight News ::: 05.04.15 by Insight News, Inc

Master loctician Michael Kuykindall escapes death and transforms lives MORE ON PAGE 10

Insight News May 4 - May 10, 2015

Vol. 42 No. 18 • The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com

WASHINGTON AVENUE SHUT DOWN IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

Protesters rally in support of Baltimore, Black lives By Harry Colbert, Jr. Contributing Writer

Minneapolis receives federal Promise Zone designation Promise Zone initiatives seek to revitalize high poverty communities

In a scene that has become far too familiar, hundreds took to the streets – this time in downtown Minneapolis – to protest the killing of a Black person at the hands of police. The latest round of protest comes on the heels of the death of Freddie Gray in Baltimore and the unrest in that city that followed. On April 12 Gray was seen on video being taken into police custody and appeared to have little or no use of his legs. While in custody of police, just minutes after being placed in a police van, Gray had a “medical emergency” and was transported to a hospital where he died a week later. Gray suffered a spinal cord injury that led to his death.

RALLY TURN TO 9

Harry Colbert, Jr.

David Bradley

Gathering on Hennepin Avenue Bridge in Downtown Minneapolis.

“Pallbearers” (clockwise top to bottom) Asmar “KJ” Abdullah, 19, Cornell “June” Griffith, 30, Kris Owens, 22, and Wesley Hampton, 24 carry a coffin to symbolize those killed by police throughout the nation.

Police violence coverage takes mental toll By Jazelle Hunt NNPA Washington Correspondent WASHINGTON (NNPA) – Police have killed at least 369 people in the first four months of 2015, with 103 Black Americans – 28 percent – making up a disproportionate number of the victims, according to Ferguson protester project, Mapping the Police. But a growing number of medical experts say the damage inflicted extends far beyond the number of actual victims. Unarmed Black male victims are currently en vogue in the media, with images of the victims’ last moments on loop hour after hour. And each incident adds a fresh layer of offense – from Deputy Robert Bates in Tulsa, Okla., who was charged with the manslaughter of Eric Harris but allowed to vacation in the Bahamas after the court hearing,

POLICE TURN TO 6

The Obama Administration announced that a large portion of north Minneapolis has been selected to be designated as a Promise Zone, which Arne Duncan will prioritize Federal resources to the area. U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan made the announcement during an event at the Northside Achievement Zone (NAZ). In 2011, the Obama Administration named NAZ a Promise Neighborhood, a precursor to the Promise Zone designation launched in 2013. Minneapolis was one of six cities across the nation to be awarded the Promise Zone designation, out of 97 cities that applied. The other urban Promise Zones were awarded to Camden, N.J. Hartford, Indianapolis, Sacramento and St. Louis County, Mo. “We have Betsy Hodges been working hard to put equity at the center of growing One Minneapolis. We have received national notice for our efforts, and (the) reward of the Promise Zone designation is a tremendous step forward,” said Minneapolis Mayor Betsy Hodges. “Now that we have been selected for the Promise Zone, we’ll be equipped with more of the support and resources we need to build a better and brighter future for north Minneapolis, which means a better and brighter future for all of Minneapolis.” “The achievement gap between white and Black students in Minneapolis is too high. Too many people of color can’t make ends meet. Racial exclusion is increasing inequality and decreasing opportunity. But we Keith Ellison know our neighbors deserve better,” said Rep. Keith Ellison whose district encompasses north Minneapolis. “Minnesotans believe we should give support to families who need it most, which is exactly what the Minneapolis Promise Zone is all about.

NEWS TURN TO 5

Insight 2 Health Feel energetic and healthy on your next getaway

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Health Don’t wait, vaccinate: Protect infants from deadly diseases

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Women Leading Change 25 motivational quotes that will inspire you to make a difference

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Commentary The Star Tribune has it out for Black folks

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Page 2 • May 4 - May 10, 2015 • Insight News

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FIVE TRAVEL TIPS

Feel energetic and healthy on your next getaway

By Julie McMahon CHHC Sound Nutrition LLC Whether you are getting away on a much needed vacation or packing up for yet another business trip, being able to stick with a healthy eating plan while traveling can be a trick. It’s hard enough to know what to eat when you are home, but trying to figure out how to avoid unhealthy foods while on the go can seem nearly impossible. Here are five tips to help you navigate the food world on your next trip: 1. Stay Hydrated! Water is always important, but when you travel by airplane it becomes especially important. The air in an airplane can be as low as 1% humidity....very dry!! Our bodies

work best around 50% humidity. Many people get headaches, cramps, fatigue and brain fog just from dehydration. Drink water and herbal teas AND avoid dehydrating drinks such as coffee, soda and alcohol. 2. Have a plan!! Be proactive!! Bring healthy snacks along that will give you nutrition and energy, so that you are not at the mercy of a vending machine at an airport. Some ideas for snacks you can have in your purse or carry-on would be nuts, trail mixes, fruit, veggies sticks, kale chips, protein bars (look for minimally processed bars with fewer ingredients, at least 8g of protein and under 10g of sugar), and even a protein powder pack that can be mixed with water or milk while on the run.

3. Airport ideas!! Okay let’s say you weren’t proactive, you don’t have a plan, and you are stuck at the airport feeling hungry. There will be MANY choices at an airport. The good news is that eating healthy is becoming more trendy and many airports are trying to offer some better choices for their discerning customers. Look for smoothie bars, salads, wraps, fruits, trail mixes and water. Better choices are there, so walk right past the fast food stands and challenge yourself to find the better option. 4. Restaurant ideas!! Many hotels are trying to cater to their healthier clients. If you know where you will be staying, check out the hotel restaurants online ahead of time to see if there are some good choices. Look for meat and fish items that

are broiled, baked, roasted or grilled. Look for veggies that are steamed, roasted or sauteed. Avoid fried foods that will only give you indigestion....who wants that when you are traveling!?! Another great resource is the concierge at the hotel. The concierge will love to help you pick out a local restaurant to suit your needs! If you would like to avoid restaurants all together, you can always stop at a grocery store and stock up on salads, fruits, nuts, seeds and water and stash your items in your hotel refrigerator! 5. Alcohol! It’s worth talking about, since alcohol is frequently mixed in with both leisure and business travel. Ideally, I would advocate for skipping the alcohol, mainly because of its dehydrating

effects. If you do partake, go easy, have a glass of wine, or a beer or a clear liquor choice with club soda, water or on the rocks. Happy Travels!! Julie McMahon, Founder/Owner of Sound Nutrition, is a Certified Holistic Health Coach and Raw Food Nutrition Educator who is passionate about Nutrition, Health and Wellness. Julie believes in the power of whole foods to create optimal health and maximum energy flow and works with her clients in a step by step approach to achieve their personal vision of health. For more information, or to schedule a free nutrition consultation, visit www.mysoundnutrition.com or call NutritionJulie at 612-270-9344.

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Insight News • May 4 - May 10, 2015 • Page 3

HEALTH PARENTING

Don’t wait, vaccinate: Protect infants from deadly diseases (StatePoint) It may seem like diseases like polio, measles and whooping cough are a thing of the past. But the 201415 measles outbreak is a stark reminder that these viruses still circulate and children who are not immunized are at risk. During National Infant Immunization Week, April 1825, pediatricians highlighted the importance of protecting our most vulnerable children from infectious diseases. “One of the most important decisions you can make as a parent is to immunize your child against disease,” says Sandra G. Hassink, MD, FAAP, president of the American Academy of Pediatrics. “It’s best to immunize your child on time, according to the recommended vaccine schedule. These diseases are unpredictable, and we never know where they will pop up next in our communities. ” Protection Begins Early The American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention all recommend children be immunized against 14 vaccinepreventable diseases by the time they are two years old. Mothers can even begin protecting their infants before they’re even born. “Protecting your newborn should start during pregnancy. Infants don’t receive their first dose of tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis vaccine until they are two months old, and they can’t receive a flu vaccine until six months. When pregnant women are immunized with these vaccines, that protection extends to their newborns,” says Hassink. Expectant parents can also encourage their families to be vaccinated

against flu and pertussis (also known as whooping cough), to provide a cocoon of protection around the newborn. Follow the Schedule Your pediatrician will outline the recommended schedule of vaccines. The first vaccine is Hepatitis B, which infants usually receive a day or two after birth. Your child’s first year will also include immunizations against influenza pertussis,

diphtheria, tetanus, rotavirus, pneumococcal, polio and Haemophilus influenza type b (Hib). The immunization schedule has been carefully designed so children receive each vaccine when it will produce the best response from their immune systems, and when the child is most vulnerable to a particular disease. Delaying vaccines means delaying protection from these diseases. Talk with your pediatrician if you have

BREATHE EASY WITH PROPER ASTHMA CARE.

questions about your child’s vaccines. Ease Tears While vaccinations can cause discomfort, most babies calm down quickly after being held by parents and hearing their reassuring voices. Breastfeeding during or immediately following the vaccination can provide significant relief. Some pediatricians might offer remedies, such as a cooling

spray or topical anesthetic cream. Combination vaccines include up to five vaccines in a single vial, so fewer needles are needed. Remember, any discomfort your baby feels is experienced as a single event, even if he or she receives multiple vaccines in a visit. Spreading vaccines over multiple visits will only increase the number of times your baby feels pain, and leave your baby unprotected longer.

“Infants are especially vulnerable to infectious diseases. Following the recommended immunization schedule ensures your baby will be protected as soon as possible,” Dr. Hassink said. Learn more about infant and childhood immunizations at www.healthychildren.org. Just as you never leave home without buckling your baby into a car seat, you should always protect your child from infectious diseases.

You belong. The health plan with you in mind.

Asthma affects more than three million African Americans and often starts in childhood. Substances that trigger asthma symptoms include flowers, smoke and smog, chemicals and cleaning products, and perfume. In serious cases, a full-blown asthma attack can occur, which can lead to an ER visit. It’s important to know what triggers can cause a serious attack, so you can prevent it from happening. At North Memorial, our providers can help diagnose and treat asthma. Call (763) 581-CARE to schedule an appointment. Learn more about asthma at northmemorial.com/sneeze.

At Medica, you’re not just part of a health plan. You’re part of a community that believes in better health for all. Learn more at medica.com

Page 4 • May 4 - May 10, 2015 • Insight News

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BUSINESS

Fundraising and basketball FUNdraising Good Times

By Mel and Pearl Shaw Recent columns have focused on questions for employers to ask prospective fundraising employees, and questions for interviewees to ask their interviewers. Our goal: to help all parties understand the critical role of fundraising professionals and what it takes for them to be successful. As a nonprofit executive – or as the person in charge of fundraising for an organization – you need to know what to look for in a candidate when hiring. And,

as a fundraising professional you have to know how to ask questions that will reveal whether or not you are joining a fundraising team or if you will be expected to be a miracle worker. A number of readers reached out to us in past weeks, sharing reactions to these columns along with true confessions. We heard from a development director looking for work because the new executive director doesn’t know fundraising and doesn’t know strategic planning. Another confessed he really hadn’t given his all in his prior position: he never felt a part of the team. Through our work we have heard a common plea from executive directors and board members who talk with us about their staff, asking in exasperation “why don’t they just raise the money?”

Great basketball players go beyond scores and defense and are known for how well they elevate the play of their fellow team mates.

Given that it’s NBA playoff season we offer the analogy of basketball. Consider these comparisons. Great basketball players go beyond scores and defense and are known for how well they

elevate the play of their fellow team mates. Think of superstars such as Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Oscar Robertson. The list is long. Point guards such as the Warrior’s Steph Curry, the

Clipper’s Chris Paul and the Spur’s Tony Parker make sure the strengths of each player are brought to the game. In fundraising it’s the same. Sure there are superstar vice presidents and development directors who exceed fundraising goals year over year. But are they leading a fundraising team? Some are, but some hog the ball, becoming a one person team. These fundraisers don’t take the time to invest in their team members. Think about it: do all members of your team have a chance to play, or are some left consistently sitting on the bench? And, what happens when your top people leave? A fundraising superstar engages the key players. As the chief fundraising officer he or she is the “play maker,” setting things in motion. He

or she takes the time to learn the strengths of team members and figure out how to best deploy these. Fundraising team members include the chief executive or president, board chair, development chair, chief operating officer, chief finance officer, the data management and administrative team, researchers, and proposal writers. All these individuals need to be in motion, working the game plan. More next week. Copyright 2015– Mel and Pearl Shaw Mel and Pearl Shaw position nonprofits, colleges and universities for fundraising success. For help with your fundraising visit www. saadandshaw.com or call (901) 522-8727.

The Saint Paul Foundation announces 75th Anniversary Racial Equity Grant Program The Saint Paul Foundation recently announced a new grant program designed to raise awareness of the work nonprofits are doing to end racial disparities – and enable them to carry out and/ or deepen their racial equity work. Government entities and nonprofit organizations may apply for grants of up to $75,000 from a total grant

pool of $300,000. “For 75 years, The Saint Paul Foundation has worked with people and organizations to keep Saint Paul strong and vital,” said Carleen Rhodes, president and CEO of The Saint Paul Foundation. “Today, advancing racial equity is one of the most critical challenges and biggest opportunities facing Saint Paul

and East Metro communities. The Saint Paul Foundation is committed to supporting efforts to end racism so that everyone in the East Metro has opportunities to thrive for the next 75 years.” The deadline to apply for The Saint Paul Foundation’s 75th Anniversary Advancing Racial Equity Grant program is June 30, 2015; grant recipients will be notified in September 2015. “We welcome a broad array of projects, initiatives and programs that advance racial equity in the East Metro,” Rhodes said. “We encourage applicants to seek support for both internal and

external efforts.” Examples include organizational capacity building, arts, advocacy, research, antiracism dialogues, leadership development, and initiatives aimed at closing racial disparities. The Foundation will host two information sessions in May to assist the community in applying. The first one will be held on Friday, May 15 from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m., the next one on Wednesday, May 20 from 1p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Interested parties should visit saintpaulfoundation.org/ advancingequitygrants for more details, locations, and to register.

Carleen Rhodes

DiversityInc unveils Top 50 Companies for Diversity Diversity and inclusion’s keystone event in America took place at Cipriani Wall Street Thursday evening, April 23, as DiversityInc announced the 2015 Top 50 Companies for Diversity. “With more than 1000 companies participating, the competition for a spot on the DiversityInc Top 50 and Specialty Lists was up over 30% this year,” said DiversityInc Founder and CEO Luke Visconti. “Companies are recognizing the importance of diversity for corporate reputation - which directly effects millennial-generation recruiting and retention. And whether you’re talking about Silicon Valley, Ferguson, or Indiana, there’s no denying that stories about how far we still need to come regarding diversity have

been dominating the headlines in 2015.” DiversityInc Top 50 companies have significantly more diversity than average American corporations. Compared with EEOC statistics, Top 50 companies have 20% more Blacks, Latinos, and Asians in management, and 13% more women. In the Top 10 the contrast is even sharper, with 41% more Blacks, Latinos, and Asians, and 46% more women than US corporate average. This year, for the first time, the National Organization on Disability tracker was required for the Top 10 Disabilities list. CNBC covered the DiversityInc Top 50 event and provided the stock market econometric evaluation. “The Top 50 list

outperformed the market on a short and long-term basis which has been the case over the past several years. This shows evidence of the link between excellence in diversity management and superior corporate governance,” said Visconti. Any company with over one thousand U.S.-based employees is eligible to enter, and there is no cost to compete. Each company’s rank is based on objective analysis of 183 separate factors, based on data from a 300-question survey. The four equally weighted areas of measurement include Talent Pipeline, Equitable Talent Development, CEO/Leadership Commitment, and Supplier Diversity. Novartis Pharmaceuticals

Corporation remained at the top of the rankings for their second year, while Kaiser Permanente jumped two spots to come in second. “We are extremely honored to be recognized by DiversityInc as the top ranked company for a second year in a row,” said Christi Shaw, President, Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation and US Country Head, Novartis Corporation. “For us, Diversity & Inclusion are an important part of our culture and strategic business focus. Fostering an environment where authenticity and collaboration can flourish enables us to drive future breakthroughs and innovations that help patients live fuller, healthier lives.” The announcement dinner included a keynote address from Reverend Jesse Jackson, Sr., whose Rainbow PUSH Coalition has been calling on the tech industry to embrace more diversity as a business opportunity. DiversityInc also released 13 lists for the following select specialty areas: • 25 Noteworthy Companies • Top 10 Companies for LGBT Employees (Wells Fargo, No. 1) • Top 10 Companies for Supplier Diversity (AT&T, No. 1) • Top 10 Companies for People With Disabilities (EY, No. 1) • Top 10 Companies for Recruitment (PricewaterhouseCoopers, No. 1) • Top 10 Companies for Mentoring (EY, No. 1) • Top 5 Utilities (Ameren, No. 1) • Top 10 Regional Companies (Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, No. 1) • Top 10 Companies for Veterans (Northrop Grumman Corporation, No. 1) • Top 10 Companies for Global Diversity (IBM, No. 1) • Top 10 Companies for Employee Resource Groups (Merck & Co., No. 1) • Top 10 Companies for Diversity Councils (EY, No. 1) • Top 5 Hospitals and Health Systems (Henry Ford Health System, No. 1) For the entire Top 50 list, visit http://www.diversityinc.com/ top50 or follow the conversation online with the hashtag #DITop50.

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Insight News • May 4 - May 10, 2015 • Page 5

25 motivational quotes that will inspire you to make a difference Women Leading Change By Dr. Artika Tyner What is in your hands to make a difference in the world? This is a question for each of us to ponder throughout our life’s journey. Could you be the one who plants the seeds for the promotion of environmental sustainability (like Wangari Maathai, Green Belt Movement), fair sentencing (like Bryan Stevenson, Equal Justice Initiative), or children’s rights (like Marian Wright Edelman, Children’s Defense Fund)? Each of us have a unique set of gifts and talents which can be employed to lead social change. Therefore, our daily challenge is to be a wise

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Insight News is published weekly, every Monday by McFarlane Media Interests. Editor-In-Chief Al McFarlane Publisher Batala-Ra McFarlane Assistant to the Publisher Shumira Cunningham Associate Editor & Associate Publisher B.P. Ford Associate Editor Afrodescendientes Carmen Robles Associate Editor Nigeria & West Africa Chief Folarin Ero-Phillips Associate Editor Culture and Education Irma McClaurin Director of Content & Production Patricia Weaver Sr. Content & Production Coordinator Ben Williams Production Intern Sunny Thongthi Distribution/Facilities Manager Jamal Mohamed Receptionist Lue B. Lampley Contributing Writers Harry Colbert, Jr. Julie Desmond Fred Easter Timothy Houston Penny Jones-Richardson Alaina L. Lewis Darren Moore Carmen Robles Lydia Schwartz Ryan T. Scott Toki Wright Photography David Bradley Contact Us: Insight News, Inc. Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Ave. N. Minneapolis., MN 55411 Ph.: (612) 588-1313 Fax: (612) 588-2031 Member: Minnesota Multicultural Media Consortium (MMMC), Midwest Black Publishers Coalition, Inc. (MBPCI), National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) Postmaster: Send address changes to McFarlane Media Interests, Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55411.

steward over our gifts. Our daily challenge is to pick up our mantles of leadership and leave the world a better place than how we found it. This begins with the recognition that leaders have the power of influence. The influence to lift your voice for justice, change laws & policies, and cultivate people power. These quotes will provide you with the inspiration to move from the sidelines to the full court of social action by becoming an active participant in the quest for justice and freedom for all. You will gain insights into how leaders have leveraged their influence to challenge marginalization and oppression. Each quote, will provide you with the inspiration to discover the leader within: 1)

I had learned early in life that if you want something, you had better make some noise. Malcolm X

The freedom we are looking for is the freedom to be ourselves, to express ourselves. Don Miguel Ruiz 3) Be ashamed to die until you have won some victory for humanity. Horace Mann 4) The function of freedom is to free someone else. Toni Morrison 5) There is always time to make right what is wrong. Susan Griffin 6) Freedom is never given; it is won. Philip Randolph 7) Until we are all free, we are none of us free. Emma Lazarus 8) Life without liberty is like a body without spirit. Khalil Gibran 9) They tried to bury us. They didn’t know we were seeds. Mexican Proverb 10) Liberty for all; chains for none. Frederick Douglass 11) We cannot be satisfied until justice rolls down like waters and righteousness

12)

13) 14)

15)

like a mighty stream. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Nobody can give you freedom. Nobody can give you equality or justice or anything. If you’re a man, you take it. Malcolm X Men must not only know, they must act. W.E.B. Dubois Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. When we let freedom ring, when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God’s children, black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing in the words of that old Negro spiritual, “Free at last! Free at last! Thank God Almighty, we are

16)

17) 18)

19)

20) 21)

free at last!” Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The artist must elect to fight for freedom or slavery. I have made my choice. I had no alternative. Paul Robeson In a gentle way, you can shake the world. Mahatma Gandhi The process of democracy is one of change. Our laws are not frozen into immutable form, they are constantly in the process of revision in response to the needs of a changing society. Justice Thurgood Marshall Everyone wants a voice in human freedom. There’s a fire burning inside of all of us. Lech Walesa Never forget that justice is what love looks like in public. Cornel West If you join a fight for social justice you may win or lose, but just by being part of the struggle, you win, and your life will be better

for it. Howard Zinn 22) You lose nothing when fighting for a cause… In my mind the losers are those who don’t have a cause they care about. Muhammad Ali 23) It’s time for those of us who have a voice to speak out for life, for love and for justice […] Chaka Khan 24) When an individual is protesting society’s refusal to acknowledge his dignity as a human being, his very act of protest confers dignity on him. Bayard Rustin 25) The new definition of freedom today is self-determination. John Hope Bryant Each of these quotes connect leadership with a moral imperative to take action. Change requires action and action is an exercise of power. You have the power to transform lives and communities. How will you leverage leadership for social justice?

In health, income has greater impact than race By Freddie Allen NNPA Senior Washington Correspondent WASHINGTON (NNPA) – Being poor can have a bigger impact on your health than your race, according to a recent report by the Urban Institute. “Income is a driving force behind the striking health disparities that many minorities experience,” stated a recent report by the Urban Institute, a research group originally founded in 1968 to study the programs associated with the War on Poverty. And even though Blacks have higher rates of disease than Whites, “these differences are dwarfed by the disparities identified between high- and low-income populations within each racial/ethnic group,” the report said. “Poor adults are almost five times as likely to report being in fair or poor health as adults with family incomes at or above 400 percent of the federal poverty level, or FPL, (in 2014, the FPL was $23,850 for a family of four) and they are more than three times as likely to have activity limitations due to chronic illness,” stated the report. In 2010, Whites “had twice the income of Blacks and Hispanics, but six times the

wealth,” the report said. “In 2011, almost one-quarter (23.3 percent) of adults with family incomes under $35,000 per year had no usual place of medical care, compared with 6.0 percent of those with incomes of $100,000 or higher,” stated the report. “Similarly, 22.6 percent reported not having seen a dentist in more than five years, compared with 4.3 percent of adults with family incomes over $100,000.” The effects of poverty on low-income families are often inescapable. “Public transportation is often inadequate to enable residents to commute to employment, to find a better job, or to reach a supermarket,

a reliable childcare provider, or health care services,” stated the report. Poor families also live in neighborhoods plagued by environmental pollution and live near busy highways and industrial factories. Poor families often lack access to fresh produce and live in communities super-saturated by fast food restaurants, carryouts and liquor stores. Safe places for children to play can be scarce. Families with yearly incomes below $35,000 were “four times more likely to report being nervous and five times more likely to report sadness ‘all or most of the time,’” compared to families that made more than $100,000.

News

communities country.

From 1

Klobuchar, Franken, Ellison announce more than $6 million to improve infrastructure at Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport

of our nation’s 21stcentury transportation network.” “The Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport is an important part of Minnesota’s economy and serves as a gateway for millions of people,”said Franken.“These critical infrastructure upgrades will improve airport safety, help create jobs, and go a long way towards updating Minnesota’s overall transportation infrastructure.” “The Department of Transportation grant announced today will ensure the Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport remains a reliable hub for travelers,”said Ellison.“Whether they’re flying to see loved ones or to do business, millions count on the MSP Airport to get them safely to their destinations. Investing in Minnesota’s transportation network isn’t just a win for our home state – it’s a win for our nation. Safe and efficient transportation benefits everyone.” The $6,219,743 will fund the second phase of a project to rehabilitate 26,200 square yards of the airport’s apron, where planes are parked, loaded, and unloaded.

I raised my family in North Minneapolis and I’m proud to see our neighborhood get the critical investment it needs.” “I’m thrilled for not only north Minneapolis, but for the future for our entire city,” said Sondra Samuels,president and CEO of NAZ. “It’s an acknowledgement that Minneapolis is serious about giving all children equal opportunities to succeed.” In his 2013 State of the Union address, President Barack Obama announced that he would designate 20 Promise Zones nationwide. This initiative recognizes and rewards cities that develop innovative approaches and aligned programming that will revitalize high-poverty

across

the

Washington, D.C. – Sens. Amy Klobuchar and Al Franken, along with Rep. Keith Ellison, announced that the Department of Transportation has awarded the Minneapolis-St Paul International Airport (MSP) $6,219,743 for infrastructure improvements. “With millions of passengers traveling through each year, the MinneapolisSt. Paul Airport is known for providing safe and reliable air service,”said Klobuchar.“This investment will help the airport update its infrastructure so it can stay on the cutting edge

Children who live in lowincome households are at greater risk for childhood obesity and experience higher rates of asthma than middle- and highincome families. According to a 2010 American Lung Association report, the prevalence of asthma is 35 percent higher among African Americans compared to Whites. In 2012, the Center for American Progress said that asthma costs the country about $14 billion annually because of lost wages and missed schooldays. And instead of saving employers money, low-income workers often cost their employers more, the report said, because of higher health care expenses and diminished productivity, as a result of missing more days at work and coming to work sick. Adults who have suffered adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), which can include oral, physical or sexual abuse or family dysfunction, are twice as likely to have heart disease, cancer, stroke, and diabetes and four times as likely to have chronic lung disease, the report said. “Policies that reduce adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) or that promote improved educational outcomes can translate into improved

economic well-being, better health outcomes, and lower health care costs,” the report explained. “Similarly, the effects of unemployment on health may be buffered by unemployment assistance and other resources (e.g., savings, family resources, and social or business contacts).” The report also recommended making stronger investments in early childhood education and expanding community-based programs and improving service provider networks. Citing a British study, the Urban Institute researchers noted that adults (60 to 64 years-old) who had grown up in the wealthiest households often “had 7 to 20 percent better cognitive performance” than adults who had grown up in the poorest households. “People and interest groups working to solve these problems are doing more than improving income and wealth: they are ultimately benefiting population health for all age groups,” said the report. “Improving the economic conditions of Americans at many income levels—from those who are poor to those in the middle class— could improve health and help control the rising costs of health care. Jobs, education, and other drivers of economic prosperity matter to public health.”

Drivers’ license for all one step closer to reality

repeals the requirement of U.S. citizenship, short-term admission to the U.S. and authorized presence status. “I am pleased this bill is one step closer to being signed into law,” said Champion. “My provision is about making sure all productive members in our communities have the opportunity to learn to drive and learn the rules of the road. This policy will allow them to legally buy auto insurance, and will ultimately make our roads and streets safer. This bill is about fairness and doing the right thing.” A conference committee will be named to iron out the differences between the Senate and House Transportation Bills. “I am hopeful that Drivers’ License for All will be part of the final agreement,” said Champion.

State Sen. Bobby Joe Champion’s bipartisan legislation to allow undocumented individuals to obtain a Minnesota drivers’ license passed as part of the Omnibus Senate Transportation Bill. Under current law,undocumented immigrants cannot get drivers’ licenses or car insurance in Minnesota. “Thousands of immigrants who live in Minnesota are forced to drive without a legal license for everyday tasks like getting to work and taking children to school. Many of these people live in fear that if they get caught driving, they will be deported and separated from their families,” said Champion. “Once in the criminal justice system, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) intervenes and starts deportation proceedings against many people who have done nothing more than drive to work.” The bill also changes the types of documents needed for people to use as a form of identification that is accepted to receive driver’s licenses. Additionally, the bill

Rep. Raymond Dehn comments on liquor bill The Minnesota House passed an Omnibus Liquor bill that contained an expansion of Sunday liquor for craft breweries to sell growlers. Variations on amendments to allow for full Sunday sales were rejectedby the full House. Rep. Raymond Dehn joined 126 of his 134 colleagues in voting the bill. “I’m glad that Sunday sales for growlers was included in this bill.I’ve worked for more than two years to expand sales opportunities for our local craft breweries,” said Dehn. “I received a lot of mail from constituents encouraging full Sunday sales and that made that vote really difficult one for me.In the end I voted against full Sunday sales because if that language was included in the bill, it makes it far easier for the Senate to strip all the Sunday sales language out, including the Sunday growler sales provision that we’ve worked so hard to achieve.”

Page 6 • May 4 - May 10, 2015 • Insight News

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COMMENTARY The Star Tribune has it out for Black folks Nobody Asked Me

By Fred Easter Nobody asked me, but, Jeffrey Hassan’s opinion piece on the Star Tribune’s questionable opinions is well written and on point. The Strib (Star Tribune) is doing with pen and ink what America’s police forces are doing with pistols and bullets, which is to say skipping lightly around facts to shoot brothers and sisters in the back and kneel on their

necks. As Brother Hassan points out, the concept of “potential impropriety or wrongdoing” is laughable. It is designed to construct a word salad that Republican half-truth mongers can build on and run with. I am loath to call out white led organizations that are “focused” on the “gap problem.” I consider them to be on my side and harbor hope for their success. Nevertheless, organizations such as Generation Next, the Greater Twin Cities United Way and AchieveMpls to name a few, could be accused of unimpeachably managed, well funded, “potential, long term ineffectiveness” I will not be holding my breath until the Strib questions

If you’re interested in looking at a place where that “gap” is being effectively attacked, take a stroll down Lake Street to MTS Minnesota Transitions Charter School. their abilities and focus. Enough of that. To say more would be “piling on” Brother Hassan’s well-constructed rebuttal.

Now, if you’re interested in looking at a place where that “gap” is being effectively attacked, take a stroll down Lake Street to MTS Minnesota

Transitions Charter School. I met a friend there last week and was very impressed. Here is a school with about 220 high school students in an urban charter school that is getting great things out of their students. There is a JROTC (Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps) program in the school – the only such in the metro and one of only a few in the state – that’s achieving success. It serves nearly 25 percent of the student body. Larry Ronglien is the principal there. Neil Heatherington heads JROTC. They are building leaders. One such example is Devon Killebrew (no relation to Harmon Killebrew). Young Devon is a cadet 1st lieutenant. He is

African-American. He has been Cadet of the Month twice and Cadet of the Year last year as a sophomore. He is the company commander and the odds on favorite to be named Cadet of the Year again in this, his junior year. Though I found it hard to believe, as he toured me around the facility, young Devon is actually on the autism spectrum. America should be proud of this young man. We all should be pleased and thankful that Devon found his way to MTS where such a great fit was possible. Devon cares deeply about, and is proud of the Corps and the school. That is immediately obvious in any conversation with him. I can’t wait to see what he accomplishes in his senior year.

Mr. President, your silence is deafening Commentary by Harry Colbert, Jr. Mr. President, where are you? I know that must seem like a silly question because I can turn on any cable news channel and I can see you and know your whereabouts as you’re talking about the issue of the moment. I’ve seen you talking about the Israeli/Palestine conflict. I’ve seen you talking about your transportation bill. I’ve seen you talking about affordable college funding programs. I saw you joking around with The Ohio State University football team. Just this past weekend I saw you yucking it up at the White House Correspondents Dinner. I even got to see your angry alter-ego, Luther. But you know where I didn’t see you? I didn’t see you in Staten

Island after Eric Garner was choked to death. I didn’t see you in Ohio when John Crawford, III was gunned down in Wal Mart for having the gall to pick up a toy gun that was inside the store. I didn’t see you in Ferguson when Mike Brown was gunned down in the middle of the street and he didn’t even have a toy gun. He had nothing. Ferguson burned … and burned yet again when it was announced that Ferguson Police Officer Darren Wilson would not be tried for his murderous act. But curiously, you were absent in Ferguson. You had another chance to be seen in Ohio when young Tamir Rice, just 12-years-old, was shot point blank without question for holding a toy gun (side note: men of color, please stay away from toys – as the warnings say, “objects may be hazardous to health”), but you

chose to stay distant. In South Carolina, when former member of the U.S. Coast Guard, Walter Scott was shown to have been defenselessly gunned down, you had the perfect opportunity to make your presence known, as in that case there was enough video evidence that an officer was finally charged for the murder of an unarmed black man. You are the Commander and Chief. This was a former military man. You could have stepped up then and made the historic speech all of us in this country have been waiting on for nearly seven years. With each one of these horrific deaths, people seem to have chosen sides. Blacks, who have been subjected to brutality and harassment took one side (and call me biased here, but I think we are justified in our anger) and whites, who have lived most of their lives with the comfort of knowing police in a

far different light, have sided with police and the now familiar script of, “the officer was in fear of his life and ‘neutralized the threat.’” Now Baltimore is burning … and it’s partially your fault. Yes, Mr. President, I lay blame at your feet. I lay blame at your feet because when it comes to race relations in this country you offered hope with no substance. You have let us down. And when I say us, I’m not just talking about black people, I’m talking about the American people. I remember the night you were elected. I’ll never forget it. I was sitting in front of my television watching the results and interacting with people on social media. Tears were falling from my eyes. I was seeing a tectonic shift in America. I was proud to be an AfricanAmerican and I was proud to be an American. But my pride

soon turned to fear when a very prophetic person commented on social media that things were about to get worse for blacks in America (who would have thought that things could get any worse). Aside from the radical white hate groups – whose numbers are on the rise since your election – many other whites (with prejudices that countless humans have regardless of ethnicity) began to fear that their America was gone. There was a feeling that they were becoming the minority (and having been a minority in this country for going on 45 years now, trust me, that’s not a position you want to be in). So there is deep fear among whites. I get it. There’s fear on all sides and fear has boiled over into anger. We are on the precipice of an all-out racial war and you are remarkably absent. Remember when your

campaign was in jeopardy because of good ‘ol Pastor Jeremiah Wright? Remember how remarkably at that moment you knew you had to address the elephant in the room – race in America? Well guess what, that was all fine and good as Candidate Obama, but you are the nation’s leader and we need you to seriously address the issue of race as President Obama. And I’m not talking about no damn Beer Summit either. Remember when President George W. Bush failed to get to New Orleans? Remember how vilified he was? Hell … that was only five days. You’ve let years go by without addressing the key issue of your presidency. We need to have a serious discussion on race and you must lead it. Every president leaves a legacy. The question, Mr. President is, what is yours?

A crisis and an opportunity to lead We are at another critical junction in American History. The recent death of Freddie Gray, along with those of Walter Scott, Eric Garner, Trayvon Martin and Minnesota’s own Terrence Franklin are stark reminders of America’s century’s long struggle of valuing Black lives. This is not a new issue; it is as old as our country itself. It is not an issue that will be solved without struggle, unbelievable and frankly unfair sacrifice on the part of Black folks and more deaths at the hands of the justice system. If we are honest with ourselves, Gray’s death is not the last unjust death that will occur at

the hands of our justice system. Gray and his grieving family are but a part of a pattern that will continue unabated unless new tactics and a new approach to leadership are approached from within the community. The African American Caucus is not asking for the greater community to hear the pain, fear and anguish of a community under attack. That should be expected by American citizens who claim to value the lives and contributions of their fellow citizens. For citizens who subscribe to the inalienable rights of all Americans to “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” it

should be obvious that the broken spine and crushed voice box of Gray are of far greater concern to achieving the American Dream than the hurt, devastated and outraged responses of an affected community expressing themselves in a manner that has occurred countless times throughout American history. Riots are nothing new in America. One need only pick up a history book, or Google American riots and a long list of civil unrest will appear, reflecting people expressing themselves when they are terrified of the future ahead of them. In general, those faces in

those past riots have not been Black and brown faces, but they do reflect that America does not always deal with her issues fairly or expeditiously. This is not to excuse such behavior, nor is it to demonize any particular group, but it does point to a symptom of real fear in a community that has had to deal with countless Emmett Tills every generation. We are not requesting this statement to be published in the Star Tribune or Pioneer Press, because this needs to be an internal discussion within our community. Nor is the African American Caucus seeking to lead on this issue,

because leaders do exist in Minnesota that have consistently stepped up to injustice. They will again. What the African American Caucus is asking is that leadership within the Black community turn inward to deal with these issues. We are asking that the disagreements be put aside to deal with the coming storm of a blatant disregard for Black life. We agree that the Caucus itself has, in the past, allowed itself to be bogged down by countless internal battles and disagreements with leadership in the community. We are learning and have taken guidance from feedback received from the

community. Now is the time to organize, to work together, to realize that while we may disagree on an approach, our hearts are in the right place and that ultimately we want to see a community at peace and free to live in peace; not because of the benevolence of America, but because our leaders support one another and make that dream a reality. The Caucus will support its leaders and community and contribute in any way that we can. Hold us accountable.

Police

Rekia Boyd’s murder because the prosecutor deliberately filed lesser, inappropriate charges. “The repetitive nature of this, the fact that this is chronic…. Chronic experiences of racial discrimination, and I’d include

vicarious discrimination, can influence mental and physical health outcomes,” says Amani Nuru-Jeter, associate professor of public health at University of California-Berkeley and researcher on racial health

disparities. “I’m not saying it’s the same as post-traumatic stress disorder, but we do some similarities in how people cognitively respond.” Other depressive or schizophrenic symptoms (such as paranoia or emotional numbness) can emerge, as well as physical health problems such as cardiovascular disease. On an individual level, racism in general has gradual, but potentially lifeshortening effects on the mind and body. These effects can be even more acute for those who make their Blackness the most important part of their self-identity, and/or those who internalize the racism against them. “We found that it’s associated with ‘cellular aging,’” Nuru-Jeter says, referring to a body of public health research to which she has contributed. “We used a measure called telomeres, which are biological indicators of the age of the cells in our bodies and indicate premature biological aging.” On a communal level, being under the threat of police violence backed by the authority of the local, state, and sometimes national government, is enough of a burden on its own. When this oppression stretches from the mundane to the life threatening – such as the discriminatory fines up and the National Guard deployment in Ferguson after Officer Darren Wilson was not indicted – it is easy for Black communities to fall into a sense of

hopelessness. The more a community feels bound by the same identity (be it racial, socioeconomic, or otherwise), the more deeply the effects of chronic racial discrimination are felt. “There’s also collective racial identity. There’s [an academic field] called social capital…and in that, there’s a concept called bonded social capital,” Nuru-Jeter explains. “Identity can increase solidarity. For example, what we saw in Ferguson was an outcry of, ‘We’re tired of being treated like this, we’re raising our voice to say Black lives do matter to us.’” There’s also the matter of images. Some media outlets have routinely reported on the victim’s past crimes and encounters with the justice system, and used either an old mugshot or image of the victim dead or dying to accompany their coverage of the deceased. One Change.org petition specifically asked the Washington Post to stop using victim mugshots in covering police violence. After some outcry on social media, CNN began to air a blurred version of the footage of Walter Scott’s killing, as captured by bystander, Feidin Santana. Nuru-Jeter points to neuroscience research involving FMRI scans (which map both brain activity and structure) that show how images or films can create a vicarious experience for the viewers. “Some of these studies show that the same parts of

the brain light up compared to when people have their own experience. I’m extrapolating here, but the suggestion is [there],” she says, especially for people who see themselves and their loved ones represented in the victims on TV. As police killings continue to be a hot topic in the news – and as police departments continue to use lethal force in their interactions with civilians – it is likely that media coverage of this violence will continue. Nuru-Jeter highlights two ways to protect one’s self and loved ones from the mental toll of these tragedies. First, having strong racial identity can be a buffer, if it is experienced in a proud way. By focusing on Black pride, and drawing strength from the positive aspects of the Black American experience, individuals and communities can balance out the painful parts. Finally, supportive people and systems are key for overall wellbeing. “What happens when we see a constant message of devalued Black life in society? One way people can cope with this is to share the experience, and not hold it in,” she says. “Even if you’re not getting individual support, simply being a member of a group [as in protest] can help. ‘There’s strength in numbers’ counts as a cliché, but I think the evidence is there to support that.”

From 1 to Officer Dante Servin in Chicago, found not guilty for

Hollies Winston African American Caucus

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Insight News • May 4 - May 10, 2015 • Page 7

EDUCATION A BRIGHT FUTURE ON THE HORIZON

Amira Warren-Yearby selected as the 2015 ThreeSixty Scholar ThreeSixty Journalism, a nonprofit program of the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of St. Thomas, has selected ThreeSixty student Amira Warren-Yearby as the 2015 ThreeSixty Scholar. WarrenYearby will receive a fulltuition, four-year scholarship to study Communication and Journalism at St. Thomas starting in Fall 2015. Each year, high school seniors, who are graduates of ThreeSixty programming, compete for the ThreeSixty Scholar award – currently valued at more than $34,000 per year, or more than $130,000 over four years. Currently, there are four ThreeSixty scholars attending St. Thomas. Warren-Yearby, a senior at St. Louis Park High School, is one of ThreeSixty’s senior reporters – the program’s

Barbara McDonald

Amira Warren-Yearby

Landon Pirius

Matt Entenza

highest designation – and a member of the 2014-15 Student Executive Board. She is a graduate of ThreeSixty’s 2013 Journalism Summer Camp and was one of 42 teenagers selected to attend the 2014 Asian American Journalist Association’s J-Camp in Boston. Warren-Yearby also produces videos for The Echo, the St. Louis Park High School newspaper, and is a St. Louis Parktacular ambassador. “Being selected as a ThreeSixty Scholar fulfills my goal I set for myself growing up, which is going to college,” said Warren-Yearby. “I will be attending my top choice of schools and have a shot at a brighter future.” During her tenure at ThreeSixty, Warren-Yearby has reported on topics such as race, religion and technology. As a young journalist, she has developed an interest in poverty

and homelessness in the United States, the achievement gap and the lack of African-American studies in schools. “Amira embodies the spirit of ThreeSixty Journalism,” said ThreeSixty Executive Director Chad Caruthers. “She is committed and passionate, and she has all the tools to lead and succeed at St. Thomas and beyond.” Warren-Yearby also has a passion for videography and plans to minor in Film Studies to complement her Communication and Journalism major. She hopes to one day have her own production company and “help completely reshape the outlook of ethnic people in the media,” she said. “I hope to impact the world in a positive way. I’m looking forward to making many more friends, connections and memories at St. Thomas, and getting the full college experience.”

Community College on Thursday, April 30. The MnSCU Board of Trustees is expected to consider Chancellor Steven Rosenstone’s

recommendation at its May 20 meeting. The anticipated start date of the new president is July 1, 2015.

Tony Summers

Semifinalists for President of North Hennepin Community College named Minnesota State Colleges and Universities has named four semifinalists who are under consideration to be president of North Hennepin Community College. The candidates are Matt Entenza, Barbara McDonald, Landon Pirius, and Tony Summers. The candidates were recommended by a search advisory committee comprised of students, faculty, staff, and community leaders, and chaired by Tim Wynes, president of Inver Hills Community College and interim president at Dakota County Technical College. The candidates are scheduled to visit North Hennepin’s campus between April 27 and April 30, 2015. The campus visits present an opportunity for students, faculty, staff, and members of the community to meet each of the candidates and offer feedback. Details of the candidates’ campus visits and the process for providing feedback are available at http:// www.nhcc.edu/presidentialsearch. Matt Entenza is a practicing attorney who has served as minority leader of the Minnesota House of Representatives. He served six terms in the House representing St. Paul. He was also an assistant Hennepin County attorney and an assistant attorney general for the State of Minnesota. He was founder and senior fellow at Minnesota 2020 – a Minnesota think-tank. He serves on the Augsburg College Board of Regents and was an adjunct instructor at St. Mary’s University. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Macalester College, a diploma in Legal Studies from Oxford University in the United Kingdom, and a juris doctorate from the University of Minnesota. He will visit the campus of North Hennepin Community College on Wednesday, April 29. Barbara McDonald has served as interim president at Minnesota West Community and Technical College since 2014. Previously, she served at Itasca Community College as provost, dean of academic affairs and student services, and director of institutional effectiveness. Prior to Itasca Community College, she served as a faculty member at Rainy River Community College. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Colorado, Boulder, a master’s from the American University in Cairo, and a doctorate from the University of Minnesota. She will visit the campus of North Hennepin Community College on Monday, April 27. Landon Pirius has served at North Hennepin Community College as interim chief academic officer since 2014, and as vice president of student affairs and enrollment management since 2011. Previously, he served Inver Hills Community College

as dean of students, associate dean of students, and director of enrollment and online service. He also served Minnesota State University, Mankato, as associate registrar and Walden University in several capacities. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Gustavus Adolphus College (MN) and a master’s and doctorate from the University of Minnesota. He will visit the campus of North

Hennepin Community College on Tuesday, April 28. Tony Summers has served Richland College (TX) as vice president for student services since 1993. Previously, he served the Community College of Allegheny County as director of minority affairs and director of financial aid for the Boyce Campus. He holds an associate’s degree from the Community College of

Allegheny County, a bachelor’s degree from Duquesne University, a master’s from the University of Pittsburgh, and a doctorate from Walden University. He will visit the campus of North Hennepin

Please join us for the 26th annual AFRICAN-A AMERICAN ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS CONVOCATION Sunday May 17, 2015 3:00 pm

Central High School 275 Lexington Parkway N Saint Paul, MN 55104 High school counselors are encouraged to nominate high school graduating seniors of African heritage earning a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher via the nomination page before April 17, 2015 “SCHOLARS ASCENDING TO GREATNESS”

Event co-sponsored by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. & Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity For more information visit www.akadpo.org or www.alphamn.org

UNIVERSAL PICTURES AND GOLD CIRCLE ENTERTAINMENT PRESENT A GOLD CIRCLE ENTERTAINMENT/BROWNSTONE PRODUCTION “PITCH PERFECT 2” ANNA KENDRICK REBEL WILSON HAILEE STEINFELD BRITTANY SNOW SKYLAR ASTIN ADAM DEVINE EXECUTIVE KATEY SAGAL ANNA CAMP ALEXIS KNAPP MUSIC HANA MAE LEE WITH JOHN MICHAELEXECUTIVEHIGGINS AND ELIZABETH BANKS SUPERVISOR SARAH WEBSTER MUSIC PRODUCERS JULIANNE JORDAN JULIA MICHELS MUSIC PRODUCED BY MARK MOTHERSBAUGH PRODUCERS SCOTT NIEMEYER JASON MOORE BY PAUL BROOKS MAX HANDELMAN ELIZABETH BANKS WRITTEN DIRECTED BY KAY CANNON BY ELIZ ABETH BANKS A UNIVERSAL RELEASE © 2014 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS

LOCAL LISTINGS FOR STARTS FRIDAY, MAY 15 CHECK THEATERS AND SHOWTIMES

Page 8 • May 4 - May 10, 2015 • Insight News

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LIFESTYLE

Happy Mother’s Day! Man Talk

By Timothy Houston Although many of us celebrate Mother’s day, we may not know much about its history. Mother’s Day in the United States is annually held on the second Sunday of May. It celebrates motherhood and it is a time to appreciate mothers and the mother figures in our individual and collective lives. This is celebrated in different ways. Many people give gifts, cards, flowers, candy, or some other act of appreciation. The origins of Mother’s Day

are attributed to different people. Many believe that two women, Julia Ward Howe and Anna Jarvis were important in establishing the tradition of Mother’s Day in the United States. Other sources say that Juliet Calhoun Blakely initiated Mother’s Day in Albion, Michigan, in the late 1800s. Her sons paid tribute to her each year and urged others to honor their mothers. I personally believe that mothers have been celebrated since the beginning of time, and having a day that we can do it collectively makes it that more impactful. We do have some insight into the early origin of collectively celebrating Mother’s Day. Around 1870, Julia Ward Howe called for Mother’s Day to be celebrated each year to encourage pacifism and disarmament amongst women. It continued to be held

At the end of the day, if you make one mother smile, you can rejoice knowing that on that day, the whole world is smiling with her.

in Boston for about ten years under her sponsorship, but died out after that. In 1907, Anna Jarvis held a private Mother’s Day celebration in memory of her mother. Her mother, Ann Jarvis had organized

“Mother’s Day Work Clubs” to improve health and cleanliness in the area where she lived. Anna Jarvis launched a quest for Mother’s Day to be more widely recognized. In 1908, Anna Jarvis was

instrumental in arranging a service in the Andrew’s Methodist Episcopal Church in Grafton, West Virginia, which was attended by 407 children and their mothers. The church has now become the International Mother’s Day Memorial. It is a tribute to all mothers and has been designated as a National Historic Landmark. Although Mother’s Day has become a day that focuses on recognizing mothers, it has also become an increasingly important event for businesses in recent years. This is particularly true of restaurants and businesses manufacturing and selling cards and gift items. Mother’s Day is the secondbiggest holiday in terms of consumer spending and this year Americans are expected to spend between $18 billion and $20 billion dollars.

Each one of us can celebrate Mother’s day this year. Whether it is with your biological mother or someone you hold near and dear, you can show them love. For those who do not want to be a part of the commercialization of this day, you can make your own card, write a poem, take a picture together, or do something that is more personal. At the end of the day, if you make one mother smile, you can rejoice knowing that on that day, the whole world is smiling with her. Timothy Houston is an author, minister, and motivational speaker who is committed to guiding positive life changes in families and communities. For copies of his book, questions, comments or more information, go to www.tlhouston.com.

Making your dreams a reality Motivational Moments

By Penny JonesRichardson Stop right where you are and think about that one dream that is always on your mind, but you’ve

given up on it for one reason or another. Maybe you dropped out of college many years ago and the thought of going back and finishing has always been in the back of your mind. Or maybe you always wanted to move out of your current town but fear has paralyzed you into staying. If any of these scenarios remind you of yourself or someone you know, then I am here to tell you that it is never too late to finish what you start.

I have recently started coaching older individuals who have a lot of regrets about things they didn’t complete when they were younger. They are happy in their lives now, but there is always that one thing that they wish they could have done when they were younger and full of life. Then there are the older individuals who share their stories of being daring and courageous. These individuals followed their dreams and are

very proud that they didn’t allow anyone to prevent them from achieving their goals. I met a women who told me that she didn’t even start college until her children had graduated from high school and was no longer in her house. She stated she had many dreams and goals that keep her up at night, therefore she always knew that the best was yet to come for her. She knew that no matter what her circumstances were,

nothing was ever going to stand in her way of being the person she wanted to be. When there is something that is placed in your heart to do, it is placed there for a reason. Your destiny is to follow your heart and see where it leads you. The lesson I’ve learned most in this is that happiness lies within you. You’re in charge of making yourself happy and finding what it takes to make your dreams a reality. The key

is to never give up and take some chances in life. And as always, stay focused, stay determined, and keep striving for greatness. Penny Jones-Richardson is a published author and life coach. She can be reached via her website at www. thequeensproject.com or email at penny@thequeensproject. com.

Know your allergy and asthma symptoms and triggers Tinelle Kuglin, North Memorial Health Care RN and Certified Asthma Educator Allergies and asthma can go handin-hand with some of the same substances that trigger allergy symptoms also causing asthma symptoms. Allergic reactions begin in the immune system when it overreacts to an allergen and produces antibodies that release

histamine and other chemicals, causing symptoms like nasal congestion and itchy eyes. For some, the same reaction leads to asthma symptoms in the lungs and airways. And, in serious cases, a life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis can occur.

Allergy triggers

Allergic asthma triggers

Non-allergic asthma triggers

Pollen

Exercise

Dust mites

Anxiety / Stress

Signs & symptoms Allergies and asthma affect one out of five Americans. While hay fever is the most common type of allergy affecting airways, sinuses and nasal passages, allergies to

Trees, grass & weeds

Viruses or other irritants

Mold

Cold air or dry air

Animal dander

Smoke

Latex

Chemical odors / Cleaning products / Paint Hyperventilation fumes

Insect stings

Flowers

Medications

Perfume

Food

Cigarette & wood smoke Car fumes & smog

food, drugs and insects can affect the digestive system and skin. Asthma typically starts in childhood. The exact cause of asthma is not known and it cannot be cured, but with proper management people with asthma can live full, active lives. It’s estimated that up to seventy percent of people with asthma also have acid reflux or heartburn. GERD or acid reflux can cause bronchial spasms and irritation which can lead to an asthma attack. Triggers It’s critical to know your triggers and get ahead of them. Both allergies and asthma can be triggered by dust, trees, mold, animals and pollen. In general, there are three pollen seasons. The timing of these seasons, as well as

Allergy symptoms

Asthma symptoms

Constant clear runny nose

Coughing

Itchy/watery eyes

Shortness of breath

Dry cough

Wheezing

Post nasal drip

Chest tightness

Sneezing the plant varieties, varies based on your climate. Trees pollinate in the spring with birch, cedar, pine and cottonwood being big allergy triggers. Grass releases pollen in the summer including Rye and Timothy as well as Johnson grasses. Weeds cause hay fever in the fall and ragweed is the biggest trigger. While allergic asthma is the most common form of asthma, there are other types with different kinds of triggers. Many people have more

than one asthma trigger. Care Talk to your doctor at the first sign of allergies or asthma. Strive to get ahead of the triggers and prevent a full-on allergic response. For example, if you’re allergic to pollen, look at the pollen levels and air quality index and avoid going outside on high pollen count days to minimize exposure. Start your allergy medication one month before your trigger

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season arrives so you build up the antihistamine levels in advance. Rinsing your nose with a neti pot or other nasal irrigation can relieve sinus symptoms and triggers before they have a chance to cause inflammation. You can also trial an over-the-counter allergy medication. Tips to reduce symptoms • KNOW YOUR TRIGGERS and avoid or minimize them. • LIMIT OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES during high pollen count days. • CLOSE YOUR WINDOWS at home and in the car to keep pollens out. • TAKE A SHOWER and change your clothes after coming indoors so the pollen doesn’t bother you all night. • Keep your home WELL VENTILATED AND MAINTAIN HUMIDITY levels between 30 to 50 percent. • DUST WITH A WET CLOTH AND VACUUM using a HEPA filter or filterless vacuum twice weekly. • COVER YOUR MATTRESS AND PILLOWS in dustproof, zippered cases. • WASH LINENS, RUGS AND CURTAINS often. Need help identifying your triggers? North Memorial Clinics can help diagnose and treat asthma and allergies with a team of physicians, pharmacists and certified asthma educators supporting you. To schedule an appointment, call 763.581.CARE.

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Insight News â&#x20AC;˘ May 4 - May 10, 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 9

COMMUNITY New season of Minneapolis walking tours begins Preserve Minneapolis launches its brand-new website and announces the line-up of the latest season of its popular Walking Tours of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic neighborhoods. These tours are the best way to get to know Minneapolis, to experience the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s diverse neighborhoods, and to get familiar with Minneapolisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; many historic resources. During the summer of 2015, Preserve Minneapolis will offer over 20 unique tours that highlight the built, natural, and cultural treasures found throughout the City. The 2015 schedule runs from May 9 through September 19. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tours include: â&#x20AC;˘

A brand-new tour for Preserve

Minneapolis, one highlighting T.P. Healy. An immigrant from Nova Scotia, Healy made his home in Minneapolis and was a significant contributor to the architectural heritage of the city. He built a prolific number of homes in the Lowry Hill East/Wedge neighborhood of Minneapolis. â&#x20AC;˘ North Minneapolisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Homewood neighborhood, a remarkably well-preserved example of one of Minneapolisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; early planned communities, once a well-known Jewish enclave; â&#x20AC;˘ The Pillsbury A Mill, built in 1881 as the largest and most advanced flour mill in the world, and currently being developed into affordable housing for artists; â&#x20AC;˘ Wirth Park Golf Course, the

first public golf course in the state, and its unique Swiss-style clubhouse, built in 1922; â&#x20AC;˘ Prospect Park, the eclectic academic enclave largely designed by denizens of the University of Minnesotaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School of Architecture; â&#x20AC;˘ The Hennepin Avenue Cultural District, the newlydesignated district stretching from the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden to the Mississippi Riverfront. â&#x20AC;˘ Park Avenue; Pioneers and Soldiers Memorial Cemetery; the under-appreciated Old Highland neighborhood of North Minneapolis; and the once-derelict Gateway area. On each tour, guides with experience in fields like architecture, history,

and preservation will tell the â&#x20AC;&#x153;stories behind the storiesâ&#x20AC;? and give participants a greater understanding of the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s social and built historyâ&#x20AC;Świth fun and a sense of humor. Most tours are $9 per person. Participants will need to preregister and pay for tickets online. Pre-payment/registration and more information is available at: www.preserveminneapolis.org/ wpfile/tours/ The 2015 TOURS are: â&#x20AC;˘ Lowry Hill East Walking Tour: The Houses of T.P. Healy, May 9 â&#x20AC;˘ Theodore Wirth Golf Club: A Walking Tour of Minnesotaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s First Public Golf Course,

May 20 â&#x20AC;˘ Red Cedar Lane Walking Tour, May 30 â&#x20AC;˘ The Lost Gateway District of Minneapolis, June 6 â&#x20AC;˘ East Hennepin: Minneapolisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; first Neighborhood, June 7 and September 13 â&#x20AC;˘ Pillsbury A Mill Artist Lofts Tour, June 16 â&#x20AC;˘ Park Avenue: Age of Opulence Along the Minneapolisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Golden Mile, June 22 â&#x20AC;˘ East Lake Harriet Parks and Residences, June 25 and August 29 â&#x20AC;˘ The Edwardians: Downton Abbey Meets Bryant Avenue, July 9 â&#x20AC;˘ Old Highland, July 11 â&#x20AC;˘ Warehouse District, July 15 â&#x20AC;˘ Homewood: An Urban

Planned Community, July 18 â&#x20AC;˘ Como-Harriet Streetcar Line, July 19 â&#x20AC;˘ Tangletown and Minnehaha Creek, July 21 â&#x20AC;˘ Midtown: A Place to Call Home, July 23 â&#x20AC;˘ Lakewood Cemetery, July 25 â&#x20AC;˘ Downtown Minneapolis Riverfront, July 29 â&#x20AC;˘ Queer History, August 9 â&#x20AC;˘ Hennepin Cultural District, August 15 â&#x20AC;˘ Off the Grid: Prospect Park, August 16 â&#x20AC;˘ Architect Avenue, August 20 â&#x20AC;˘ Nicollet Island, September 12 â&#x20AC;˘ Murder & Mayhem: Minneapolis Pioneers and Soldiers Memorial Cemetery, September 19

Youthprise Summer Food Service Program Youthprise is participating in the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP). Breakfast and lunch will be provided to all children, without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability, at no charge. All meals meet nutritional standards established by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Meals will be provided at the following sites (see graphic). For more information visit: www.youthprise.org/programs/ nutrition-program/ USDA Disclaimer Nondiscrimination Statements (Updated April 2015) In accordance with Federal Law and U.S. Department of

Site Name

Site Address

Dates and Days of Operation

Meals with Service Times

Sanneh Foundation Conway Center

2090 Conway St St. Paul, MN 55119

Monday-Sunday June 15 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Aug 21

11 AM â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2 PM Breakfast 4-5 PM Lunch

Patchwork Quilt

3120 Washburn Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55411

Monday â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Friday June 8 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Aug 21

9 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10 AM Breakfast 12:30 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1:30 Lunch

McDonough Recreation Center

1544 Timberlake St. Saint Paul, MN

Monday â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Friday June 15 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Aug 21

1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2 PM Breakfast 4:30 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5:30 PM Lunch

Agriculture policy, Youthprise is prohibited from discriminating on the bases of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, gender identity, religion, reprisal and, where applicable, political beliefs, marital status, familial or parental status, sexual orientation, or all or part of an individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s income is derived

from any public assistance program, or protected genetic information in employment or in any program or activity conducted or funded by the Department. (Not all prohibited bases will apply to all programs and/or employment activities.) If you wish to file a Civil Rights program complaint of

discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/ complaint_filing_cust.html, or at any USDA office, or call (866) 632-9992 to request the form. You may also write a letter containing all of the information requested in the form. Send

your completed complaint form or letter to us by mail at U.S. Department of Agriculture, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 202509410, by fax (202) 690-7442 or email at program.intake@usda. gov. Individuals who are deaf,

Rally From 1 Both peaceful and violent protest have been occurring in Baltimore and as of press time the city was under a called state of emergency. The situation in Baltimore had become so surreal that the Baltimore Orioles and the Chicago White Sox played a baseball game with no fans allowed inside the stadium due to the unrest. Here in Minneapolis supporters of the Black Lives Matter movement gathered at Gold Medal Park and later took to Washington Avenue to stand and march in solidarity with the protesters of Baltimore, just as they did months earlier in support of protesters in Ferguson, Mo., New York and Cleveland following the killings of Michael Brown, Eric Garner and 12-yearold Tamir Rice â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all at the hands of police. Brown and Garner were unarmed when they were killed by police and Rice had a toy B.B. gun. In each case the killings were ruled justified by prosecutors. â&#x20AC;&#x153;People act like theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re sick of seeing us in the streets; to be honest Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m tired of being in the streets, but weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to be in the streets until there are no more Black deaths,â&#x20AC;? said Mica Grimm, one of the Minneapolis organizers of Black Lives Matter. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is for Mike Brown, this is

Harry Colbert, Jr.

Black Lives Matter organizer, Mica Grimm, addresses Twin Cities protesters at a rally in support of protesters in Baltimore following the death of Freddie Gray in police custody. The April 29 protest and march happened to coincide with the 23rd anniversary of the Los Angeles uprising following the acquittal of four white police officers in the taped beating of motorist, Rodney King. for Eric Garner, this is for Tamir Rice â&#x20AC;Ś this is for Aiyana Jones (killed by Detroit police when they mistakenly raided the wrong home looking for a suspect). This is for all those lost their lives at the hands of those who were supposed to protect them.â&#x20AC;? A relative of now deceased Marcus Golden, who was killed in January by St. Paul police, called for changes in the law and policies

among various law enforcement agencies. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Every police officer should be wearing body cameras,â&#x20AC;? said Monique Cullars-Doty. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Also, no police department should be doing internal investigations when there is a homicide (involving police). And these officers should not be rewarded with paid time off while families are left home to grieve. Things that happen in Ferguson,

Classifieds

things that happen in Baltimore, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re happening here too â&#x20AC;Ś theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re happening everywhere. This is a national crisis. We are in a state of emergency.â&#x20AC;? The gathering of the hundreds of protesters â&#x20AC;&#x201C; estimated to be as high as 1,500 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; was noticeably multicultural with a preponderance of the crowd Caucasian. But while most in solidarity of the area Black Lives

Phone: 612.588.1313

Assumed Name

DUMP TRUCK DRIVER

VACANCIES

1. State the exact assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted: Animal Menagerie

Wanted experienced dump truck driver. Only experienced need apply: Call Jesse Green (651) 815-7197 or email jessegreen625@yahoo.com

Cokato Apts, Cokato, MN (a seniors complex 62 or over or handicapped) has vacancies on 2nd Floor for one BR apts. Waiting list open. Contact Don at 320-286-2758. E-Mail cokapts@embarqmail.com

2. State the address of the principal place of business: 40 S. 7th St. Suite 212 Box 137, Minneapolis MN 55402 3. List the name and complete street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name OR if an entity, provide the legal corporate, LLC, or Limited Partnership name and registered office address. Attach additional sheet(s) if necessary: Rosemary, Sage, & Thyme, 1180 Cushing Circle, St. Paul MN 55108 Diane Minner, 40 S. 7th St. Suite 212 Box 137, Minneapolis MN 55402 4. I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Minnesota Statues section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath. Signed by: Diane Minner Date Filed: 4/2/2015 Insight News 4/27/2015, 5/4/2015

Information Services Specialist The U.S. District Court, District of MN is accepting applications for a full-time Information Services Specialist in our Minneapolis location. Starting salary range is $45,185 to $53,654. For more information, visit the courtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website www.mnd.uscourts.gov, Employment. An Equal Opportunity Employer

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

RENTAL UNITS AVAILABLE

The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Housing Authority has rental units available in Cass County, MN. Please call 218-335-8280. Must meet certain qualifications.

Child Development Center Teachers

Bethel University is seeking a Preschool and Toddler Teacher for our King Family Foundation Child Development Center located in the St. Paul Frogtown neighborhood. The position is responsible for implementing activities which are designed to develop a range of spiritual, social, cognitive, and/or motor skills for individual and/or groups of children and supervise the development of the whole child. Bethel is an institution of higher education committed to integrate the evangelical Christian faith into every area of life. For more information and application visit our website at https://www.bethel.edu/employment/openings/staff.

Matter were white there were several hundred Black supporters in the crowd and organizers had a special message for the Black protesters. In a move that caught many off guard, while at the park, high atop a hill, organizers called all the Blacks in attendance into a circle and asked non-Blacks to remain back, outside of the center. Grimm told the whites in

Fax: 612.588.2031

hard of hearing, or have speech disabilities and wish to file either an EEO or program complaint please contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339 or (800) 8456136 (in Spanish). Persons with disabilities who wish to file a program complaint, please see information above on how to contact us by mail directly or by email. If you require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) please contact USDAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s TARGET Center at (202) 7202600 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

support of the movement that, â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is not to separate us; this is a piece of the healing.â&#x20AC;? Inside the circle, the mood was both somber and hopeful with hugs among the group and calls for fists in the air. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is for us,â&#x20AC;? said Grimm. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This goes deep. The things that happened with Michael Brown â&#x20AC;Ś Tamir Rice â&#x20AC;Ś it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just happen to the families, it happens to all of us.â&#x20AC;? Once the circle disbursed Grimm again addressed the group as a whole. â&#x20AC;&#x153;That was a little different and I know that was hard for you (the whites left outside of the circle),â&#x20AC;? said Grimm. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But in Minnesota almost all space is white space and we need to have these spaces as Black people because we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have that. We need those moments for ourselves and we thank you for showing us love and allowing us that space.â&#x20AC;? Following the gathering at Gold Medal Park the crowd that ranged from the very young to the elderly took to Washington Avenue and marched with police escorts from Washington Avenue to Hennepin Avenue and across the Hennepin Avenue Bridge. The march culminated in a concert on 2nd Street with hiphop artist, Brother Ali. Traffic in both directions on Washington was halted for more than an hour and traffic eastbound on Hennepin was also diverted.

Email: info@insightnews.com

West Falls Estates Int'l Falls, MN Â&#x2021; (OGHUO\ GLVDEOHG EHGURRP DSWV Â&#x2021; 7RZQKRXVHV ZLWK RU EHGURRPV Â&#x2021; ,PPHGLDWH RSHQLQJV IRU EHGURRP WRZQ KRXVH EHGURRP HOGHUO\ GLVDEOHG DSDUWPHQW Â&#x2021; 5HQW EDVHG RQ RI DGMXVWHG LQFRPH &DOO 3DWULFLD %URZQ DW 7''

Director of Professional Development Job Summary: The Director of Member Services The Director of Professional Development is an exempt employee who reports to the Executive Director and has primary responsibility for planning and managing educational events and conferences. Required Qualifications: Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s level degree in Event Planning, Marketing, Communications, or related field; with at least three years related work experience. Ability to handle multiple tasks, projects and priorities effectively and professionally. Excellent, positive interpersonal and customer service skills. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Experience in planning, managing and developing conferences and educational events. Organized, able to attend to details and multiple deadlines. Closing Date: May 17, 2015 Salary: $41,200-$61,800 Contact: For more information, or to submit a resume czeise@mnssa.org | www.mnssa.org

Page 10 • May 4 - May 10, 2015 • Insight News

insightnews.com

Vafa Kaamil

Master loctician Michael Kuykindall escapes death and transforms lives By Toki Wright Twitter @mrwrighttcc Minneapolis Loc Starz natural hair salon, 217 Oliver Ave. S., Minneapolis sits on an unsuspecting side street in the Bryn Mawr neighborhood. Inside you’ll find many of the same things you would find in other salons. The key difference is the focus on natural hair locking and styling. Natural hair is polarizing. A person’s hair must naturally grow in tight curls that can be locked, a key trait of most Black people in America. Understanding the relationship between artistry, hair, community and one’s soul are key to the work of Master Loctician Michael “Micone” Kuykindall. His own journey speaks volumes to the sacred value of people’s connection to their roots. AS: When you tell people what you do what are people’s impressions in

relation to being an artist? MK: First people think that I change locks on doors (laughter). “You change doors (people ask)? I say, “No, no, no, hair. I have to go into detail. I’m an artist. I don’t get too tied up on costs. I look out for people. Yesterday I was closed and one of my clients was going to Italy. I came in just because I didn’t want him to go looking crazy. With locs it’s really personal. A lot of people don’t want other people in their head. People see that you aren’t going to put negative energy into their hair. A lot of people see that as sacred. AS: How did your upbringing play into how you do your work? MK: I grew up in Chicago. We lived in Cabrini Green until first grade and then we moved to Wicker Park. It was a really cultural area with graffiti and rhyming. My mom and pops

we’re around a lot until my brother passed in (19)91, ‘92. Experiences in my life made me learn how to listen and communicate with people and build with kids. Sometimes people force locs on kids and I don’t like when they do that. It doesn’t make a good experience for them. AS: The story about what happened with your accident is powerful. Do you mind sharing? MK: The summer of third grade the Batman movie was coming out. We went to my grandmother’s house to have a picnic. We were coming from the grocery store heading down Lake Shore Drive and our car was hit by a drunk driver that knocked us into the water. It was me, my cousin Tzadik, my cousin Ebony and my brother Marcus. My grandmother was driving with her husband. Once the car went into the water something told me

to swim out of the window. Something just told me to swim though I didn’t know how to swim. I bumped into my grandmother in the water and she didn’t know how to swim either. Somebody pulled us out of the water. The water is 20 feet deep. The car was sinking and my brother and two cousins were still in the water. It just so happened to be some off duty police officers were parked with scuba gear on their boat. They pulled my cousin, Tzadik, out first, then my cousin Ebony, she was 2 (years old), and pulled my brother out last. We went to the hospital and my cousin (Ebony) died that day. Tzadik was in a coma. My brother, Marcus, came out of a coma but he couldn’t talk or walk anymore. He went to rehabilitation for a while and ended up coming home. My mom was in the medical field and wanted to take care of my brother at home. One day he had a really bad fever and we took him to Children’s

Hospital. They sent him home saying he had bronchitis and the next day he died in my mom’s arms with pneumonia. My family took it hard. My mom and father started doing drugs. My mom and father separated. I stayed with my mom but she would disappear sometimes. But I stayed focused on the positive. I made sure I did well in school. In (19)96 I started my locs at South Shore High School. The principal told me we couldn’t have locs or braids. He called my hair twigs. I said, “No Mr. Horton these are locs.” He was trying to get his “Lean On Me” on (laughs). My best friend, Booda, started working at a shop in Chicago called the Tribesman. Him being there gave me the knowledge from a professional standpoint. In 2005 I moved back to Chicago go work at Tribesman. I decided to move back to Minnesota because my daughter was starting school. We started Nature’s Roots in my cousin, Tzadik’s loft. In

2009 (I) shifted over to work with Dre at LocStarz. AS: What’s the history behind your connection to Kool Herc? MK: I had a hip-hop crew in Chicago, Skwd57 – MCs, breakers, graffiti, just a bunch of hip-hop cats hanging out. Booda finished his album around the time I came back. I was driving a cab so I had the flexibility to make music. My crew, Alienated, (was) doing Monday night open mics at the Exodus in Wrigleyville. Booda put a tour together with Kool Herc. I ended up becoming the tour driver and was able to rock a couple songs. It was cool to be in his presence. When we got to Chicago I got to really talk to him. One thing I remember he said, “give the people what they want to hear.” That’s deep. There are different types of people that want different types of things. I really took that in.

insightnews.com

Insight News • May 4 - May 10, 2015 • Page 11

Alma Andina

Cyhi the Prynce

DJ Keezy

May 4 - 10

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

Sophia Eris

Beverly Cottman

Monday, May 4 SOUL/JAZZ/ EXPERIMENTAL Sophia Eris x Prophis, Medium Zach, Safe Jazz, Cat Sax Kitty Cat Klub 315 14th Ave. S.E., Minneapolis 9 p.m. No cover Dayton, Ohio native Sophia Eris has made a significant impact on the Twin Cities arts and culture scene, performing, organizing events, DJing and rhyming alongside Lizzo. Her new project “Sophia Eric x Prophis” has the lounge feel of Amel Larrieux with hip-hop in the mix.

Tuesday, May 5 SALSA/CUBAN Salsabrosa w/ Alma Andina Honey The Cedar Cultural Center 416 Cedar Ave S, Minneapolis 7-11PM $12 adv, $15 door In celebration of Cinco De Mayo, The Cedar Cultural Center is bringing a night of performance, dance and cultural awareness. There will be live salsa, Cuban and Aztec dancers representing the U.S., Mexico and Cuba. Tickets available at www. thecedar.org.

Wednesday, May 6 HIP-HOP/FUNDRAISER The Stone that the Builder Refuse 2nd Annual Give Back Honey 205 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis 7 p.m. – 11 p.m. The second annual give back is a fundraiser going directly into building educational opportunities for high school students on the Northside. The Stone that the Builder Refuse is a unique opportunity to support the artistic empowerment of youth in north Minneapolis with performances by Toki Wright, BdotCroc, Truth Maze, Dra Muzic, Mic Q.A., Creative Creature, DJ Keezy and hosted by Miss Brit of Soul Tools Radio.

Thursday, May 7 Tech N9ne w/MURS and

Techn9ne

more Myth 3090 Southlawn Dr., Maplewood All ages $35 One of hip-hop’s most successful yet best kept secrets, Tech N9ne has one of the top live performances in music complete with precise rhyming, harmonizing and choreographed movement. West Coast king, MURS and Kansas City’s Krizz Kaliko open along with Chris Webby, King and Zuse.

Friday, May 8 HIP-HOP/PERFORMANCE Cyhi the Prynce Fine Line Music Cafe 318 1st Ave. N., Minneapolis 7:30 p.m. 21-plus $20-$31

Member of Kanye West’s G.O.O.D. Music, Cyhi the Prynce has been on the scene dropping mixtapes and singles. On a rare appearance the “Huey” MC plays the Fine Line alongside Twin Cities standouts Lioness and Mac Irv. For tickets to go http:// bit.ly/Cyhimpls or call (847) 773-7637.

Saturday, May 9 READING Story Time with Beverly Cottman Ancestry Books 2205 Lowry Ave. N., Minneapolis 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. Join Ancestry Books as it starts story time up again. The hour will be led by Beverly Cottman, who will be sharing stories from African and African-American oral traditions. Cottman is an interdisciplinary artist creating at the intersections of visual, literary and performance art. As a

BENEFIT

member of the Ways Ensemble, Cottman has performed in collaborative productions at Pangea World Theater, Hopkins Center for the Arts and the Avalon Theatre.

Voice: Songs for Those Who Are Silenced Release Show Bedlam Theatre Lowertown 213 E. 4th St., St Paul Rhiannon Les Exodus.jpg _ Giddens .jpg _

Sunday, May 10

Local musicians Haley Bonar, Dessa, Holly Hansen, Charlie Parr, Carrie Rodriguez and Luke Jacobs, John Hermanson, The Ericksons, We are the Willows, Robert

Robinson, Reina del Cid, Joey Verskotzi, Jon Rodine, The Prairie Fire Lady Choir, Shá Cage and Jayanthi Kyle, The House Of Mercy Band, Angel with Angie, Chris Koza and Ben Weaver contribute to this compilation of songs using only their voices to bring to light the most basic needs of children and adolescents trapped in the vice of sex trafficking here in Minnesota.

The show is a fundraising project for the Women’s Foundation – MN Girls Are Not for Sale campaign bringing awareness and helping to end sex trafficking of children in Minnesota. In conjunction with the CD release and concert, Hamilton Ink Spot will host an exhibition of posters by local artists, giving voice to those

Page 12 • May 4 - May 10, 2015 • Insight News

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