Insight News ::: 05.29.17

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Insight News May 29 - June 4, 2017

Vol. 44 No. 21• The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com

Stepping into Summer TURN TO PAGE 2

Don Walker

Page 2 • May 29 - June 4, 2017 • Insight News

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Leading with art: Don Walker

Steppin’ into Summer

By Harry Colbert, Jr. Managing Editor “When others think of Black people they think in dull colors; they think we’re always sad. That’s just not the case.” – Don Walker When Don Walker thinks of Black people he thinks in bright, vibrant, lively colors.

He thinks of the joy of his people. He sees the light, the life … the laughter.

“Steppin’ into Summer,” this week’s cover art, started as a portrait of Walker’s daughter, Carla WalkerRowe, but the artist was inspired to add elements while attending his grandson, Ryan Rowe’s, stepping performance – a form of group dancing made popular by Black Greek organizations. Rowe, 16, is a member of the Wayman Steppers for Christ. Walker added outlined inverted images of Rowe to each side

of his work, with brightly colored, non-symmetrical panes in the background.

“The background and the outline of (Rowe) add to the abstract,” explained Walker.

“Steppin into Summer” is the perfect piece to adorn the Insight News cover with Memorial Day being recognized as the unofficial start to summer … a summer we hope will be as vibrant and as lively as Walker’s work.

As we continue our Leading with Art series, we offer other artists the opportunity to display their works on our cover.

For those interested in becoming a Leading with Art artist, email managing editor Harry Colbert, Jr. at harry@insightnews. com.

Submissions can be paintings, drawings, sculptures, photography, crafts, performance art and more.

On the anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education, “Cissy” Marshall laments lack of progress

Thurgood Marshall’s widow keeps his legacy alive

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Contributor Cecilia Marshall never imagined that the battle for equal rights in schools and elsewhere would still be as vital today as it was six decades ago when her husband, United States Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, fought to end legal segregation as a civil rights lawyer with the NAACP Legal Defense Fund.

“We haven’t made too much progress,” said Cecilia Marshall, 88. “Sixty-three years later, we’re still fighting in the courts for equal treatment and that’s not what my husband, nor I would have imagined would be going on today.”

There’s little argument that one of the greatest achievements in the long and illustrious career of the late-Justice Thurgood Marshall, who died in 1993 at the age of 84, was the landmark decision in the 1954 Supreme Court case Brown v. Board of Education.

According to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, in 1940, “Marshall became the key strategist in the effort to end

Thurgood Marshall Center for Service and Heritage

Cecilia Marshall, Justice Thurgood Marshall’s widow, keeps his legacy alive. racial segregation, in particular, meticulously challenging Plessy v.

Ferguson, the Courtsanctioned legal doctrine that called for ‘separate but equal’ structures for whites and Blacks.”

The Brown v. Board of Education lawsuit began as five separate cases filed in South Carolina, Delaware, Virginia, Washington, D.C. and Kansas.

The plaintiffs in all of the cases alleged that the civil rights of their children under the 14th Amendment had been violated.

A biography about Justice Marshall that appears on The Legal Defense Fund’s website said that, “Marshall won a series of court decisions that

(From left-right) Cecilia Marshall, John W. Marshall, Justice Thurgood Marshall and Thurgood Marshall, Jr. gradually struck down ‘separate, but equal’, ultimately leading to Brown v. Board of Education, which he argued before the Supreme Court in 1952 and 1953,” finally overturning the doctrine and acknowledging that segregation greatly diminished students’ self-esteem.

On May 17, 1954, the

Supreme Court unanimously ruled that separate educational facilities were “inherently unequal” and that racial segregation of public schools violated the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

The Brown decision came more than a decade before

Marshall’s appointment to the Supreme Court. The decision has been credited with inspiring the Civil Rights Movement that unfolded over the next decade and it also led to Marshall being recognized as one of the most successful lawyers in America.

“He accomplished so much and worked so hard, but I thought by now we would have come so much further. He would have thought that, too,” said Marshall, whom loved ones and others affectionately call “Cissy.”

Her work continues in her husband’s memory.

“The problems remain and this anniversary comes against the backdrop of a significantly troubling retrenchment of access to education for AfricanAmericans, Latinos and other children,” said Marshall.

She cited a Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights report that said there are numerous factors that appear to have combined to cause the rapid re-segregation of schools since 1991, the year her husband retired from the bench.

The courts began turning against desegregation plans in the 1980s – denying new petitions to desegregate schools, ending previous court imposed plans and even striking down voluntary plans created by local

school districts, according to the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, a diverse collective of more than 200 national civil and human rights groups.

Further, executive branch agencies topped the aggressive campaign to enforce the Brown decision and the Civil Rights Act that proved successful in the 1960s and 1970s, the Leadership Conference reported.

In a statement about the report, the Leadership Conference said that the rapid growth of the Hispanic and African-American populations and growing income disparities have increased the concentration of minorities living in high poverty districts.

“The NNPA reaffirms the living legacy of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall,” said Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., the president and CEO of the NNPA. “We note this month the 63rd anniversary of the landmark 1954 Supreme Court decision. Marshall utilized his legal genius and courage to win that case. Today, it’s important to reassert the critical importance of continuing to demand equal, high-quality education for Black American students and all students across the nation.”

State of Black America Report

Blacks show slight gains in 2017

By Lauren Victoria Burke NNPA Newswire Contributor In their annual State of Black America report, called “Protect Our Progress,” the National Urban League (NUL) suggested that the nation should invest in a “Main Street Marshall Plan” that would solidify gains made

by Black Americans during the Obama Administration.

The plan includes many policy ideas the NUL has proposed in previous reports including funding for expanding pre-K, increased Pell grant funding, increasing the minimum wage, and funding for summer jobs.

“During the Obama era, the economy added 15 million new jobs, the Black unemployment rate dropped and the high school graduation rate for AfricanAmericans soared. Now that progress, and much more, is threatened,” said Marc Morial, the president and CEO of the National Urban League, during a brief press conference about the release of the 2017 report.

By the metrics the report used to assemble their data, the “2017 State of Black America” report concluded that the overall equality index for African

Americans is 72.3 percent, up from 72.2 percent the year before, the social justice index for Black Americans dipped from 60.9 percent to 57.4 percent and the health index for Black Americans grew from 79.4 percent in 2016 to 80 percent in the 2017 report.

Morial also suggested that recent activism against many of the Trump Administration’s proposals, including massive cuts to the Department of Housing and Urban Development, have been delayed or blocked completely.

“Because of the vital work of the Urban League and other civil rights activists the administration has backed off of many of their first massive proposed cuts,” said Morial.

“These cuts would be a massive move backwards for AfricanAmericans.”

Morial has a familiar ask – a $4 trillion investment in education, infrastructure and job training. The “Main Street Marshall Plan” is one of the most detailed proposals impacting African-Americans put forward by any civil rights organization in the U.S. “These main streets are in big cities and in small towns ... they are where this nation’s poor and middle class live,” said Morial. “We need action and not

Freddie Allen/AMG/NNPA

Marc Morial, the president and CEO of the National Urban League, suggested that recent activism against many of the Trump Administration’s proposals, caused the White House to change course. In this photo, Morial speaks during the “2016 State of Black America” launch event at the Newseum in Washington, D.C. rhetoric.”

A special about the “State of Black America” will air on TV One on May 31.

Learn more about the 2017 State of Black America report at www.stateofblackamerica. org.

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Insight News • May 29 - June 4, 2017 • Page 3

aesthetically speaking

Aesthetically It!: Events, concerts, venues in the Twin Cities

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Insight News May 29 - June 4, 2017

Vol. 44 No. 21• The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com

Bill to celebrate 400 years of Black history passes U.S. House

By Lauren Victoria Burke NNPA Newswire Contributor In a rare display of bipartisanship in Congress, the United States House of Representatives voted to establish a commission to examine 400 years of AfricanAmerican history.

House bill H.R. 1242 is designed “to develop and carry out activities throughout the United States to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the arrival of Africans in the English colonies at Point Comfort, Virginia, in 1619.”

Rep. Bobby Scott (D-Va.)

sponsored the bill in the House and Senators Tim Kaine (DVa.) and Mark Warner (D-Va.) sponsored the bill in the Senate, where it’s waiting to be passed.

According to Washington insiders, the bill will most likely pass by unanimous consent in the Senate.

Once the bill known as the “400 Years of African-American History Commission Act,” or H.R. 1242 in the House, passes Congress, it will land on President Donald Trump’s desk.

If H.R. 1242 becomes law, the resulting commission would consist of 15 members, who would serve without pay. The legislation would authorize the commission to create grants to communities, nonprofits and

other groups to hold events that would commemorate the anniversary of slaves arriving in the U.S. The commission could hire staff and also accept volunteers to perform its mission. The commission would be required to submit a report to Congress and terminate in July of 2020.

In a statement about the bill last year, Kaine said that he’s been lucky to be a part of federal commissions that have been formed to study and celebrate English and Hispanic history.

“Well, if English lives matter, if Latino lives matter, then African-American lives matter and they’ve mattered every day since the landing of those ‘20 and odd’ African-Americans

at Point Comfort, Va.,” said Kaine. “The story has a lot of pain to it, but it’s a story that has to be told to commemorate that we as a nation – had it not been for 400 years of African American history – would be absolutely unrecognizable.

What we hope to do with this bill is engage in something we should do to tell the story in a different way than it may have been told 50 to 100 years ago.”

In late March, the Congressional Budget Office estimated, “that implementing the bill would cost about $2 million a year – a total of $6

BILL 4

Freddie Allen/AMG/NNPA

Rep. Bobby Scott said that African Americans have contributed greatly to the United States and their achievements deserve to be celebrated. This photo was taken during a forum on criminal justice reform in Northwest Washington, D.C. in July 2015.

Comcast names John Keller Regional Vice President for the Twin Cities

Comcast

Janet Uthman, the division vice president of Inclusion and Multicultural Marketing at Comcast, says that the cable giant continues to create content to appeal to African-American and multicultural audiences.

Janet Uthman works to expand Comcast diversity

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Contributor In 2016, Janet Uthman was named to Ebony Magazine’s Power 100, a distinction handed out to such notable AfricanAmerican achievers as the Obamas, Lonnie Bunch, Melissa

Harris-Perry and John Legend.

Other publications have featured her as a “mover and shaker” and now Uthman, a former corporate marketing director at BET, has transitioned into a new role at Comcast, as the division vice president of Inclusion and Multicultural Marketing.

“As the head of Inclusion and Multicultural Marketing for Comcast’s Northeast Division,

I am responsible for overseeing the planning and execution of diversity and inclusion efforts, as well as multicultural marketing strategies across the division,” said Uthman, who joined Comcast in 2008, as region director of product management.

Uthman’s division is spread across 14 states

UTHMAN 4

Comcast recently announced that John “J.D.” Keller has been appointed regional vice president for the company’s Twin Cities Region. In this role, Keller is the top executive responsible for customer experience, sales, operations and financial performance for the region.

Keller will report to Steve White, President of Comcast’s West Division, and will oversee Comcast’s operations serving nearly 600,000 customers and managing more than 2,400 employees.

Keller comes to Comcast from ADT Security Services, where he worked for 22 years.

He served in several senior leadership roles, including Vice President, Sales and Operations, directing the company’s largest region with $1.5 billion in revenue and more than 4,000 employees. His teams consistently improved the customer experience, increased J.D. Power scores and employee satisfaction while growing the business. Keller began his career working in call center operations for Dean Witter.

“Comcast has evolved into a leading media and technology company, offering innovative products that make life simpler and delivering superior customer

John Keller service, and I am excited to join the team,” said Keller.

“J.D. brings to Comcast a strong operations background and deep experience in leading large organizations, while consistently delivering exceptional results through focused execution,” said White. “With broad functional experience and a commitment

to the customer experience, J.D. will be a valuable addition to our leadership team and the Twin Cities Region.”

A native of Utah, Keller earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Utah and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Phoenix.

Astronaut remains a forgotten pioneer NASA barely mentions Robert H. Lawrence Jr. during anniversaries, memorials

By Erick Johnson Chicago Crusader (NNPA Member) Two historic events that changed America occurred 50 years ago.

While many will remember the 50th anniversary of the failed Apollo 1 space flight, an equally historic event that affected Black America remains largely forgotten.

The 50th anniversary of the tragic death of America’s first Black astronaut, Major Robert H. Lawrence, will perhaps go unnoticed in 2017. Lawrence was a determined individual whose career into space never got off the ground. Like the three astronauts who perished during a fire on the Apollo 1 flight, Lawrence’s dreams of orbiting the earth also ended in tragedy.

Ambitious and fearless, he aspired to venture to the moon at a time when people of color were not wanted in parks, restaurants and neighborhoods here on earth.

Lawrence’s launching pad was his hometown of Chicago, where he blasted through high school and graduated at just 16-years-old. Poor and Black, Lawrence faced tremendous odds against breaking into the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) lilywhite stratosphere, but when he did, he became America’s first Black astronaut.

Black pride turned to sorrow after Lawrence was killed in a jet crash at Edwards Air Force Base in California. The accident happened just 11 months after an electrical fire aboard a rocket in flight killed three Apollo I astronauts on Jan. 27, 1967. This year marks the 50th Anniversary

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Life insurance is one of the keys to Black wealth

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of the deaths of four astronauts, but NASA and America have remembered the three astronauts in the Apollo 1 disaster as heroes, with special commemorations, while Lawrence remains a forgotten pioneer whose memory has been lost.

Despite campaigns and efforts to recognize his contributions, Lawrence’s legacy is drifting like a wayward space satellite. Schools and scholarship funds named after Lawrence have vanished, and with Lawrence’s most avid crusaders of his legacy gone (his wife, mother and other relatives), the legacy of a man who inspired many Blacks to dream big has faded over five decades.

Before the release of the movie, “Hidden Figures,” many Blacks were unaware of the historic contributions of Black NASA mathematicians Katherine Johnson, Mary Jackson

and Dorothy Vaughan. Though it was Johnson’s use of analytic geometry that helped bring John Glenn back to Earth, she was among the few Black heroes who toiled, unsung, behind the scenes at NASA, where only three percent of 19,000 employees were Black in 1961. Morehouse College, Tuskegee University (then Tuskegee Institute) and other historically Black schools were cranking out physicists, scientists and mathematicians every year, but many did not apply to NASA. Some Black leaders accused NASA of not working hard enough to recruit minorities.

From NASA’s inception, astronauts were considered the face of the agency.

All of them were white and male.

Though working for NASA behind the scenes was difficult for Blacks, becoming an astronaut was considered a seemingly

impossible mission for people of color.

After Black voters propelled John F. Kennedy into the White House in 1961, his administration aimed to increase minorities at NASA, as well as to place a man on the moon. Kennedy wanted to make history by selecting the first Black astronaut.

In 1963, NASA officials chose Ed Dwight to train at the Aerospace Research Pilot School to go into space, but NASA did not select Dwight for its space mission. While the agency said his academic qualifications weren’t good enough, many Blacks believed the failure of his candidacy was based on racism.

The Black Press, including the influential Ebony and Jet magazines, wrote aggressively

LAWRENCE JR. 9

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Why I’m proud of the BCU grads that protested Betsy “DeVoid”

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Let’s talk lunch

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USAF/Wikimedia Commons

Robert Henry Lawrence, Jr. was the first African-American selected as an astronaut by the USAF.

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Jessica Lundquist winner of Minneapolis Farmers Market Bag Design Contest

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Business

New dating app puts premium on non-negotiables

By Edward Henderson San Diego Voice and Viewpoint/NNPA Member First dates can be nerve-racking, but every once and a while, you get swept off your feet by the potential of someone you’ve met.

The butterflies in your stomach are dropping deposits and applying for permanent residence, fantasies of travel, deep conversation and future plans are dancing in your mind. While all of this is great, San Diego-based

entrepreneur and life coach Angela Harris implores us to remember our “non-negotiables,” before we jump off the cliff into an ocean of what we think is love.

To do this, Harris has created a new dating app called “Non Negotiable.” The app asks users a series of important questions about the things that he or she refuse to compromise on when it comes to love and relationships while matching you up with others who share the same views.

“My whole desire has been speaking life into women and always doing it from a relationship standpoint and holding women to own their truth,” said Harris. “It’s all about you owning what you say

My whole desire has been speaking life into women and always doing it from a relationship standpoint and holding women to own their truth is important to you and not settling for anything less than people who will respect and honor what your truth is.”

The app, which is available now on Android and iOS, opens with a questionnaire so that users

can identify what’s important to them in various categories related to dating and relationships. Along with the dating component, the app also attempts to educate people on the nuances of who they really are and to provide advice on how to become the best versions of themselves, before bringing someone else into their lives.

Another interesting twist to the app, that makes it different from others, is that users will not be able to upload a photo on their profiles. Harris made this decision in order to eliminate some of the superficial mistakes that can be made while looking for a partner.

“People can easily get caught up in looks and not listen

to what’s being said,” explained Harris. “With this app, users can know on the first day as to what the thoughts and views on certain things are instead of having trivial conversations without getting to the heart of who you really are.”

Harris is entering into a $2 billion industry with more than 1,500 sites. The success of the industry has given her confidence that “Non Negotiable” will carve a niche even though she’s never been on a dating app herself.

“I have never used a dating app,” said Harris. “My goal of doing this is, because of the success stories I’ve heard from people doing it. It’s a huge business of people who are meeting and

connecting that way. I may even become more engaged with it as the app grows and speak from a different standpoint.”

Harris has trademarked the phrase “non-negotiable” and is the only person who can benefit financially from its use as a name of a business. She also plans on doing focus groups and driving traffic to the app via social media for feedback. To learn more about Harris’ app, visit www. nonnegotiable.org.

The San Diego Voice and Viewpoint is a member publication of the National Newspaper Publishers Association.

Eugene Mitchell and New York Life are creating $50 billion in Black wealth

Life insurance is one of the keys to Black wealth INSIGHT NEWS

to move to the next level. What we’ve put together is a community empowerment plan that’s about financial literacy.”

Mitchell said that leveraging financial tools to really make a difference is what’s important.

Instead of thinking of life insurance as just a means to cover funeral expenses, Mitchell urges Black families to consider life insurance as protection

and an investment for future generations. He based his plan on four principles – protect what you own and those you love, prioritize financial goals, plan for major life events and pass on assets to individuals and institutions you care about.

“We’re not only trying to create wealth, but to spend it in the right place; to build upon it and protect it and leverage it for the future and pass it on, so that money is never an issue,” said Mitchell. “Knowing collectively that we’ve created $50 billion and changed the financial future of our community shows that Black wealth matters.”

A revelation struck Mitchell when his employers explained that his value to the company was $2.5 million. Mitchell said that was the current value of his future earnings at the company, just his salary alone, without bonuses.

“So, it made me think about valuing my life. If someone got on the bus and was acting up, it taught me to move to the other side, for example,” he said. “You tend to take better care of yourself, your children and your family and make better decisions, when you know you’re worth a million

dollars or more.”

Other races, particularly whites, inherit their wealth, most through life insurance payouts, said Mitchell.

“You really can’t work your way to wealth, you have to invest your earnings somewhere,” said Mitchell. “It’s time to consider tools like life insurance, as well as, looking at places where we can find money to invest. We could empower ourselves, and send more kids to school, create endowments, lessen crime and create more home ownership, collectively.”

Buying life insurance isn’t a government handout, or someone else doing for the community, Mitchell said.

“It’s us, getting ourselves together with what we have,” explained Mitchell. “To teach our children better, to act better ourselves, and to use these tools that are readily available that have been underleveraged in our community, so that we can raise expectations and create a new legacy for generations to come.”

Quite simply, life insurance isn’t a lottery ticket, Mitchell stressed.

“We can insure our parents,

ourselves and our children to build this within our own families. By getting our mindset and spending habits right, we can start setting up college savings plans and down payments for homes like others,” said Mitchell. “If you had inherited $250,000 from Big Momma, would it have helped you put aside your nest egg, put a down payment on a home or have startup capital for a business?”

Already, after just six years, the plan is nearing its goal. In 2016 alone, New York Life paid out $5 billion in death claims, Mitchell said. African-American agents at the company handled more than $100 million in claims from Black Americans.

“The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) salutes New York Life and Eugene Mitchell for this transformative initiative to undergird the building of wealth for Black families and communities,” said Dr. Benjamin Chavis, Jr., the president and CEO of the NNPA. “The $50 billion is just a starting point,” said Mitchell. “It could be used on top of the trillion dollars of earned income that Black people already have.”

that African-Americans have contributed greatly to the United States and their achievements deserve to be celebrated.

“The history of Virginia and our nation cannot be fully understood without recognizing the role played by the slave trade,” said Scott. “Slavery was an abhorrent institution; but for

hundreds of years, it was the foundation of the colonial and early American agricultural system and was essential to its economic sustainability. The 400 Years of African-American History Commission Act will be instrumental in recognizing and highlighting the resilience and contributions of African

Americans since 1619. From slavery, to fighting in the Civil War, to working against the oppression of Jim Crow segregation, to the civil rights movement, the rich history of African Americans and their contributions to our Nation began hundreds of years ago but obviously does not end there.”

Lauren Victoria Burke is a speaker, writer and political analyst. She appears on “NewsOne Now” with Roland Martin every Monday. Burke is also a frequent contributor to the NNPA Newswire and BlackPressUSA.com.

president of Marketing and Sales at Comcast.

“This past year, I helped assemble a group of leaders across the Division who are committed to being champions of diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our business,” said Uthman. “Together, we have continued to build on our initiatives to ensure all 22,000 of our employees across the division have an equal opportunity to succeed at Comcast and reflect the diverse communities in which we live and serve.”

The company’s Beltway Region Black Employee Network has also proven successful.

The Beltway Region, which includes the Washington, D.C. area, kicked off the Black Employee Network Employee

Resource Group (ERG) last March to champion growth, development and opportunity for individuals of color, Uthman said.

“Understanding the importance of employee resource groups, the region also recently launched the Veterans Network, Women’s Network and Young Professionals Network, and is looking to include others,” said Uthman. “In addition to networking, these groups provide peer-to-peer mentoring, help drive business initiatives, as well as improve community relations, as several members are involved in local organizations around the Greater Washington, D.C. area.”

Uthman has also been busy offering guidance on programming and product enhancements that appeal to

multicultural audiences, and looking for opportunities to meet with customers at various local events, recognizing that not all customer segments can be addressed with one general marketing message.

“We continuously look to create culturally relevant marketing ads, as well as expand our programming content to appeal to African-American and multicultural audiences,” said Uthman. “We recently added the Impact Network, ASPiRE and REVOLT to our channel lineup, as well as distributed an RFP to add two additional AfricanAmerican majority owned networks by January 2019.”

Uthman said being named to Ebony’s Power 100 is humbling.

“It was a tremendous honor to be named alongside

such luminaries. I was literally speechless when I heard the news,” said Uthman. “Ebony Magazine was a huge part of my life growing up, as it was one of the few places to see positive portrayals of African-American people in the media at that time.”

While honors and accolades are welcome, Uthman said she’s most passionate about her job and what it entails.

“I love having the opportunity to build on and create new initiatives to ensure all our employees across the Northeast Division have an equal opportunity to succeed in the organization,” said Uthman. “I also enjoy partnering with our corporate team to create strategies to attract and retain multicultural consumers. This role is the perfect combination of my passion and my purpose.”

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Contributor

www.insightnews.com

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

Editor-In-Chief Al McFarlane Publisher Batala-Ra McFarlane Assistant to the Publisher Shumira Cunningham Associate Editor & Associate Publisher B.P. Ford Managing Editor Harry Colbert, Jr. Associate Editor Afrodescendientes Carmen Robles Associate Editor Nigeria & West Africa Chief Folarin Ero-Phillips Associate Editor Culture and Education Dr. Irma McClaurin Associate Editor Leadership and Social Enterprise Dr. Anita Davis-DeFoe Director of Content & Production Patricia Weaver Content & Production Coordinator Sunny Thongthi Yang Distribution/Facilities Manager Jamal Mohamed Receptionist Lue B. Lampley Contributing Writers Melvin Carter, Jr. Julie Desmond Fred Easter Gloria Freeman Timothy Houston Penny Jones-Richardson Michelle Mitchum Darren Moore Artika Tyner Toki Wright Photography David Bradley Rebecca Rabb Contact Us: Insight News, Inc. Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Ave. N. Minneapolis., MN 55411 Ph.: (612) 588-1313 Fax: (612) 588-2031 Member: Minnesota Multicultural Media Consortium (MMMC), Midwest Black Publishers Coalition, Inc. (MBPCI), National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) Postmaster: Send address changes to McFarlane Media Interests, Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55411.

If Black lives matter, then Black wealth should certainly matter, too.

That’s the motto that Eugene Mitchell, a corporate vice president and market manager in the African-American Market Unit for the New York Life Insurance Company, often shares.

Since 2011, Mitchell has been on a mission to create wealth – $50 billion to be exact – in the Black community through an innovative backed by his employers and the 1,200 African-American insurance agents the company employs.

“We are on mission to create $50 billion of tax-free future income in the Black community,” said Mitchell. “I believe the issues in the Black community are not crime (or) drugs; those are symptoms of a greater and deeper rooted issue, which is about economics. Without economics, without college saving plans in place, without down payments for new homes, folks struggle

Bill From 3 million over the 2018-2021 period.”

In a floor statement about the bill last summer, Scott said

Uthman From 3 including Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, Delaware, Connecticut, Massachusetts and the District of Columbia.

She holds a master’s degree in business administration in marketing from the University of California, Los Angeles Anderson School of Management and a bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance from University of California, Berkeley and previously served as region sales director for the Disney Channel.

Prior to taking over her current role in October 2015, Uthman worked as vice

New York Life

Eugene Mitchell, the corporate vice president and market manager in the African-American Market Unit for the New York Life Insurance Company, said that investing in life insurance policies can increase wealth in the Black community.

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Summertime, when the livin’ is hard for hungry children Commentary

By Marian Wright Edelman Summertime, and the livin’ is easy Fish are jumpin’ and the cotton is high Oh your daddy’s rich and your ma is good-lookin’ So hush, little baby, don’t you cry.

– Lyrics to Summertime, sung by Ella Fitzgerald Ella Fitzgerald knew a lot about the haves and have nots.

She grew up poor and at 17 had been homeless and hungry for a year before she was “discovered” at The Apollo in Harlem in 1934.

Think of the millions of hungry children in rich America today who might never be “discovered” or are kept from realizing their talents. And for them summertime is very hard with bouts of hunger.

On the last day of school they’ll leave behind more than teachers and friends. They lose access to the school breakfasts, lunches, and after-school snacks that help keep them healthy and ready to learn during the school year. For many

children these are their best or only meals of the day.

The 100 percent federallyfunded Summer Food Service Program will once again this year be a food lifeline for millions of low-income hungry children during the long hot summer. Right now many community sponsors, including school districts, local government agencies, camps, and private nonprofit organizations are working through their state agencies to be ready to serve healthy meals to millions of children this summer. The Summer Food Service Program tries to meet the need and helps to deliver the dollars to pay for the basic nutrition every child needs every day. For communities that use it, the benefits are enormous.

It not only feeds children but provides much needed summer jobs for youth and adults often in communities where jobs are scarce — including cafeteria workers, bus drivers and many others who enable children to stave off summer hunger.

The tragedy is too few of the children who receive school breakfasts or lunches get free meals in the summer. Many more go hungry. The Food Research & Action Center (FRAC) notes more than 20 million children received free or reduced-price school lunch during the 2014-2015 school year, but only 3.2 million of them

no income but benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, or food stamps as I still call it), and there is talk of threats to even that critical piece of the safety net, every eligible community must find a way to ensure their children are fed. Find out where the summer feeding sites are in your community. Check with other organizations in your community that provide summer activities for children to help them find ways to add meals. They may need a little help from local foundations or community donations to cover extra expenses like refrigerators or coolers. Smaller programs may be able to link to other food programs in their community to get meals to feed the children in their care. If transportation to summer feeding sites is a problem for children, as it is in a number of states, mobile food vans may be an option with help from local bus or other transportation services.

Summer feeding programs could become the hub for other child-focused activities. Adding programs and services and keeping sites open longer could not only reduce summer hunger but help communities create some desperately-needed jobs and implement greatly needed quality out-of-school-time programs — a win-win. Other communities are testing electronic benefit transfer

— one in six — received meals during summer 2015.

No states come close to reaching all their hungry children during the summer. In 2015 only nine states and the District of Columbia served summer meals to more than 20 percent of children who participated in free or reduced-price lunch programs during the school year. Eleven states served summer meals to fewer than one in 10 of their lowincome children. But some good news is that state efforts are slowly growing: 29 states did better in summer 2015 than in summer 2014.

States and localities can and must do far more to stop summer hunger.

It’s unconscionable that states and communities are leaving millions of dollars on the table that could be used to feed hungry children right now and create jobs supporting summer feeding programs in communities that desperately need them. No communities should be allowed to ignore these funds. As Mrs. Coretta Scott King once said: “I must remind you that starving a child is violence.”

The first step, of course, is to make sure federal, state and local summer nutrition programs remain a budget priority and do not lose ground or go backwards.

When more than one million households with children have

(EBT) cards to help families purchase extra food for children during the summer. We should be using the Summer Food Service Program as effectively as possible with the achievable goal of ending summer child hunger in every community.

There’s still time to do your part. The Children’s Defense Fund is proud that all of our CDF Freedom Schools® sites will be serving meals this summer, some with Summer Food Service Program partnerships. There is still time to start a site or to link other programs to existing sites.

The USDA’s Summer Food Service Program’s website is a helpful resource and offers tips: In order for a site to exist in your community, a school, nonprofit organization or local government agency must be the program sponsor and be responsible for the administration of the program. To begin mobilizing your community, contact the following people or groups, and tell them you want to help feed hungry children in the community this summer. Contact: • The school principal • Teachers • The Parent Teachers Association • The school food service manager • School officials such as the school board or superintendent of schools

• The Mayor’s office • Recreation and Parks Office County officials • Elected officials.

As the USDA says: Volunteer! Our best SFSP [Summer Food Service Program] sites have organized, well-run activities that keep the interest of the children and teens coming back to the site day after day. Some of these activities include arts and crafts, tutoring, mentoring, drama, sports, computer training, music, gardening, reading programs, cooking or any other creative ideas you may have. Many sites have enlisted local fire and police departments, local celebrities, local businesses and local political figures to make presentations to their SFSP sites. The only limitation is your imagination.

Please do your part to make this summer a time when living is easier for children by helping stamp out hunger.

Marian Wright Edelman is President of the Children’s Defense Fund whose Leave No Child Behind® mission is to ensure every child a Healthy Start, a Head Start, a Fair Start, a Safe Start and a Moral Start in life and successful passage to adulthood with the help of caring families and communities. For more information go to www. childrensdefense.org.

BCU grads protest Betsy DeVos in epic fashion

Why I’m proud of the BCU grads that protested Betsy “DeVoid”

By Julianne Malveaux NNPA Newswire Columnist I could not be more proud of the students at Bethune-Cookman University (BCU) than if I had raised them myself.

Responding to the university’s very late selection of Education Secretary Betsy DeVos for the spring commencement speaker, graduating seniors chose to turn their backs on a woman who described HBCUs as “pioneers of school choice.” The students’ repudiation of DeVos’ very right to be present was well coordinated; the protest reflected their ability to be sophisticated, not reactive when confronted with a speaker that epitomizes the very refutation of their HBCU education. It is my hope and dream that these students can continue to operate in formation, as they oppose oppression.

I don’t know how DeVos (hereafter referred to as “DeVoid,” as she is devoid of good sense, history, literacy and even courtesy) came to be BCU’s commencement speaker. I suspect that the White House (Omarosa Manigault) made a call to offer an administration speaker and they went for it. Maybe Trump Whisperer Manigault’s new hubby, Florida Rev. John Allen Newman, has some ties to the college and he saw this as a way of burnishing his wifey’s credentials as a HBCU savior. Maybe there is a bunch of Black Republicans on the BCU board of directors standing in the wings and hoping for goodies from “45.” Truly, this is all speculation but, most of the time, commencement speakers are secured months before graduation.

This speaker was thrust on students and their families just 10 days before the ceremony.

For most students, speakers are the sideshows, not the main deal in commencement, unless the speaker is someone like President Barack Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Denzel Washington or Viola Davis. White folks might prefer Tom Hanks, Meryl Streep, Wolf Blitzer or Sheryl Sandberg.

Commencement speakers are expected to spout uplifting platitudes, offer sage advice, maybe share a private challenge, and wish the graduates well and do it in less than 20 minutes. Students are sitting at the edge of their seats, not because they are waiting for the punchline, but because they want their degrees.

What was BCU President Edison Jackson thinking? In his printed statement on May 1, he said, “The legacy of Dr. (Mary McLeod) Bethune is that she was not constrained by political

Betsy DeVos Julianne Malveaux says that Betsy “DeVoid,” is no Mary McLeod Bethune. ideology, but worked across all parties to support BCU. Moreover, students are directly impacted by funding dollars that are dispersed through the Department of Education. BCU receives $4 million annually through Title III, which supports teaching, research and infrastructure. Additionally, Title IV impacts the ability of BCU students to receive federal financial aid, overall influencing the ascension of BethuneCookman University students.”

Maybe President Jackson thought he was making friends by inviting DeVoid to speak at B-CU’s graduation. Actually, he made a spectacle of the graduation by inviting a woman who had already disparaged HBCUs with her ignorance. And he did it in the same week when her boss, “45,” said (and then quickly reversed himself) that he was not sure that some federal provisions for HBCUs, such as the HBCU Capital Finance Program, are constitutional.

It is odious that DeVoid has received an honorary degree

from BCU. What has she done to earn it? According to President Jackson, “Through Secretary DeVos’ life work, her contributions extend far beyond her home state of Michigan. Secretary DeVos has supported educational opportunities for students in over 25 states and supported Central Florida through several philanthropic efforts:100 Black Men of Central Florida; Jones High School, and the Parramore neighborhood located in Orlando to name a few. Secretary DeVos is a graduate of Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Mich. She is the wife of community activist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Dick DeVos, where they have four adult children and six grandchildren.”

This earns her an honorary degree? Really?

I reached out to Jackson and several members of his team to discuss this. I’ve been to BethuneCookman University twice under his leadership and know, all too well, what kinds of pressures that HBCU presidents face as they juggle constituencies –faculty,

1

2

students, alumni, community, trustees and many others. He might have found himself stuck between a rock and a hard place, when he invited DeVoid; or he may have welcomed the opportunity.

We in HBCU Land (my special term for our space) play ourselves cheap. Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Dartmouth, Columbia, Georgetown, and Stanford aren’t rushing to give Betsy DeVoid honorary degrees. They don’t think she deserves them. The woman with a simple undergraduate degree from the unremarkable Calvin College (yes, my elitism is showing), whose only contribution to the education arena is her rabid embrace of school choice, should not get an honorary degree from anywhere. Unfortunately, Bethune-Cookman University was first in line to debase itself by offering a degree to DeVoid.

DeVoid insulted the BCU community by recounting Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune’s life story as part of her commencement speech. How dare she tell us about ourselves in a way to attempt to endear us to her? Betsy DeVoid,

you are no Mary McLeod Bethune.

You can go to her gravesite, but you can’t channel her energy.

Don’t get it twisted.

The low point of the BCU commencement was the spectacle of Jackson chiding his students, because they had the integrity to protest the presence of Ms. DeVoid. He is their leader, their guru, their mentor. He should not have threatened his students, but instead offered them, and Ms. DeVoid, a series of palliative statements designed to honor the protest spirit of Dr. Bethune, and the awkwardness of the moment.

Had I been a scolded student, I would have felt slimed; had I been understood, I might have felt differently.

If I were a member of the Bethune-Cookman University class of 2017, I would contribute,

for the next few years, to a fund that supports student activists.

I’d find a classmate to run the fund outside the confines of the university. I’d support the fund, because I support my college, but not an administration that insults the best day of our college career with an odious and repugnant speaker.

We have to resist the ways that “45” and his minions like Omarosa Manigault are pimping HBCUs. “Woke” Black people have to be aggressive in our financial support of HBCUs, and indifferent to the disingenuous overtures that would bring a devoid presence like Betsy DeVos to an HBCU campus.

Julianne Malveaux is an author, economist and founder of Economic Education. Her podcast, “It’s Personal with Dr. J” is available on iTunes.

Page 6 • May 29 - June 4, 2017 • Insight News

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Insight 2 Health Don’t get stuck in fast food trap

By Julie McMahon Holistic Nutrition and Wellness Coach Let’s face it, we are all busy people! We run around all day from the moment we wake up.

The key to feeding yourself right is to have a plan....otherwise when the afternoon munchies arrive you will want to grab anything that’s handy. Don’t get stuck in the “fast food” trap, instead let’s talk about having some good ideas, that are quick, convenient and ready to grab.

1. The easiest thing to do is pack up your lunch the night before. Pack up some of your leftovers from dinner and have them ready to grab in the morning.

2. A sandwich is okay....a sandwich loaded with veggies is even better...a sandwich, loaded with veggies and put in a wrap instead of a big bun or bread is even better, or best yet, take all your sandwich fixings and roll them in a large lettuce leaf.

I love Ezekiel wraps, look for them in the refrigerator section at the grocery store. Skip the chips and pair your wrap with fruits like apples or pears or berries or veggies like carrots, celery and radish.

3. Salads: For my week I like to keep a big batch of a couple different kinds of salad that I can just grab throughout the week. A simple green salad

can be upgraded just by adding chicken, nuts, seeds, peppers, onions, olives or whatever veggie you love!

4. Soups: For those cooler days, soup or chili may taste good. Again, it has the advantage of making a big batch on Sunday and having it ready to go in your refrigerator all week!

5. Spring Rolls: Again, I make up a huge batch at the beginning of the week and keep them in the fridge to munch on for lunches and snacks. Roll your favorite veggies, such as carrot, zucchini, peppers and avocado along with sprouts and cooked quinoa or rice, into a rice wrap or nori wrap... if you are a sushi fan you will love the nori (seaweed).

Think Fruits and Veggies.... ditch the fast foods, sodas, chips and fries!! Think about eating from all the colors of the rainbow...not from skittles, but from all the lovely produce that is now in season!! These foods will give you energy and have you feeling great!!

Here’s a quinoa salad that you can use for lunches and snacks all week: Citrus Basil Quinoa Salad Recipe For the Quinoa Salad: 1 1/2 cups dry quinoa 3 cups water 1 cup Orange Basil Dressing (recipe below) 1/2 cup finely diced red onion

The Detoxinistra

Citrus Basil Quinoa Salad

1 cucumber, chopped 2 cups fresh spinach 1 red bell pepper, chopped salt and pepper For the Orange Basil Dressing: 1/2 cup orange juice 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar 1/2 cup olive oil 1/4 cup tightly packed fresh basil 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1 tablespoon honey Directions: **Combine the dry quinoa and water in a medium saucepan over high heat. Bring to a boil,

then cover and reduce the heat, allowing the quinoa to cook for 15 minutes, or until all of the water is absorbed. Remove from the heat, and fluff with a fork. **To prepare the Orange Basil Dressing, combine all of the ingredients in a blender, and blend until completely smooth and emulsified. Adjust the flavor to taste, if desired. **Transfer the quinoa to a large bowl and toss with one cup of the Orange Basil Dressing and all of the chopped vegetables. (Don’t be surprised if the spinach wilts from the heat

of the freshly cooked quinoa.) **Season with salt and pepper, to taste, and allow to marinate in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. Serve chilled, or at room temperature. **This dish will last for up to a week in the fridge, when stored in a sealed container. The flavor gets better as it marinates!

Note: The leftover Orange Basil dressing makes a delicious addition to any leafy green salad, and will last for up to a week in the fridge. Recipe from The Detoxinistra 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 nutrition consultation, visit: www.mysoundnutrition.com or call NutritionJulie at 612-2709344.

fresh • local • organic Your neighborhood source for local and organic foods and wellness products

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Insight News • May 29 - June 4, 2017 • Page 7

Solving your relationships equation Man Talk

By Timothy Houston Relationships are complicated.

They are based on multiple variables that are constantly changing. You must also factor in the prospective, perception and priorities that each person brings to the relationship. With all of these moving parts, relationships can be a mathematical and emotional nightmare. This is the challenge that is facing the

modern-day relationships. There is hope. Here are a few simple tips in solving your relationship equation.

To solve your relationship equation, you must identify a common denominator. A denominator is a shared trait or something held in common with the numerator (the other person being considered). Their feelings must be at the top of your relationship equation. If your relationship is based on the way a person looks (external) and not on how you make each other feel (internal), it will be a fraction of what it should be.

In math, when the denominator is equal to the numerator, the relationship is one.

To solve the relationship equation, you must solve for

To solve the relationship equation, you must solve for a single variable. There are seven dimensions of the human person – spiritual, moral, mental/ intellectual, physical, social, economic and political.

a single variable. There are seven dimensions of the human person – spiritual, moral, mental/ intellectual, physical, social, economic and political.

These dimensions should be approached from most-important

to least-important. To put more value on the physical than the spiritual, or economics before morals is a mistake. Character precedes conduct, and spiritual and moral integrity are more of an indicator of relationship

success than money and looks.

The spiritual health of a person is the most important variable in solving the relationship equation.

Finally, to solve the relationship equation, you must balance the equation. This is a math and chemistry concept.

Every successful relationship must have good chemistry. The relationship between two people should produce something greater than what each person could have produced individually. If any person in the relationship is diminished, the relationship is out of balance and an adverse chemical reaction will eventually follow.

Common goals and interest, mutual respect, and trust, must be balanced and equal.

Complex relationships can be simplified, but you must be the one that begin the process.

In the beginning, you must be your own numerator and denominator. Work on your spirit, morals, and values. Take some time to determine what your common denominator is.

This will balance your internal equations and bring wholeness to your personal life. From this platform of wholeness, you can simplify and solve your relationship equation.

Timothy Houston is an author, minister, and motivational speaker committed to guiding positive life changes in families and communities.

For more information, go to www.tlhouston.com.

San Diego trainer overcomes hurdles on the track and in life

By Edward Henderson San Diego Voice & Viewpoint/NNPA Member Ra’Shan Guillory remembers the hunger pangs the most.

Several months pregnant with her daughter Journey, and kicked out of her parents’ house, Guillory’s new address was anywhere she could park her car.

Doing her best to stay warm in the chill of San Diego nights, Guillory often had to choose between saving her money for a hotel and satisfying her cravings for food. These are only a few of the low moments for an athlete who used to soar over hurdles on the track at record speeds.

Guillory began running track at the age of 10 and quickly realized that she had talent that was beyond her peers. She traveled the country running for the Junior Olympics and went on to set records in the 100-meter hurdles at Lincoln and Kearney High Schools in San Diego that still stand today.

“When you’re at your

peak shape you feel like you can fly,” said Guillory. “You don’t get tired and everything is passing you by. You feel like a super human. It’s a cool feeling, because not everyone can do what you do.”

The young track star was in peak condition and setting her goals toward a run at the Olympics when the first major hurdles away from the track appeared in her path. She became pregnant, her abusive father kicked her out of the house, and she stepped away from track for a year. Accompanied by the father of her child, Guillory recalls taking baths in parks and worrying for the safety of her unborn daughter living on the street.

“It was scary and embarrassing.

Life was happening to me, I was mad at God, but I had to rely on faith,” said Guillory. “I just asked the Lord to guide me in the right direction.”

Over time, the two secured jobs and were able to save up enough money to secure an apartment. Friends donated furniture to the young couple and their daughter Journey was

Hurdles and Hair

Ra’Shan Guillory started a personal training business she called “Hurdles and Hair” to accelerate her own training program and to help athletes and others get in shape. delivered safely. The hurdles kept coming, however, as her marriage to the father of her child ended, sending her back

into the abusive environment of her father’s home.

“His abuse came from anger. It wasn’t a safe place. I forgive him, but he’s not worthy enough to have a relationship with me,” said Guillory.

Now a single mother, Guillory was back to living in her car to avoid her father’s abuse and would stay with friends while she had her daughter.

Seeing the cycle repeat itself, she made the decision to take control of her life and pursue her athletic dreams fueled by the most important part of her life … her daughter Journey.

“My baby kept me going. I wanted her to be proud of me,” said Guillory. “There’s so much joy in what I’ve been through because it made me stronger.”

Guillory rejoined her long-time track coach Bradrick Cooper and their team to get back in shape for competition again. However, it would take time to get anywhere close to the shape she was in before her pregnancy.

“I was going through postpartum depression. I used to come to practice and cry when I was running, because I felt like

the fat girl on the track when I used to be the fastest girl on the team,” said the young mother.

To accelerate her training, Guillory began working out other athletes for extra money and discovered a new passion.

She started her personal training business she called “Hurdles and Hair,” inspired by comments spectators would make on her big hair when she ran track as a child.

“I would consider myself a faith-based trainer. I like to bring the aspect of spirituality and having a centered mind while you’re improving yourself and your body,” she said. “Your mind has to be right for your body to work.”

She currently trains athletes, community members, and corporate groups between San Diego and Los Angeles, catching the attention of some high-profile clientele.

She was recently invited to mansion party as an athlete and met a mentee of Don-AMatrix, the personal trainer for Kanye West. Guillory received an invitation to meet the famous trainer at a concert and got to do a workout with him. Matrix

was impressed and has provided an inside track toward securing celebrity clientele like West himself and the Kardashians.

“My life changed right then and there,” said Guillory.

“Now all of this cool stuff is happening.”

Guillory has also gained a lot of attention from her daily Facebook Live morning routines.

Each day she hits the mat to lead her audience through Olympic warm-ups and training routines.

She’s often accompanied by her daughter Journey.

In the future, Guillory plans to try out for the 2020 Olympic track team for hurdles and continue to grow her personal training business.

“I want to bring the word of God to fitness. I want to give people hope and another aspect of the Christian experience,” said Guillory. “You can be beautiful, sexy, fun, edgy and a Christian woman at the same time.”

The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint is a member publication of the National Newspaper Publishers Association.

Page 8 • May 29 - June 4, 2017 • Insight News

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Insight News • May 29 - June 4, 2017 • Page 9

Menthol cigarettes particularly dangerous in our community Stopping habits that hurt you and hurt those around you can be hard, but it can be done.

Congregations in Minneapolis and St. Paul joined with thousands in the AfricanAmerican faith across the United States to observe No Menthol Sunday.

On May 28, faith leaders discussed how the tobacco industry specifically markets mentholated tobacco products to African Americans and the negative health impact of their success.

As federal policy expanding access to healthcare is threatened, we have to take a more active role at the ground level to educate our communities

and equip them with strategies to guard themselves against the tobacco industry and to protect their health.

“The country is undergoing a lot of change right now, and we want to be sure this issue is not left behind,” said Delmonte Jefferson, executive director of the National African American Tobacco Prevention Network.

“We just can’t lose another life to tobacco death, especially when we know that simply banning the sale of the menthol flavored tobacco could save so many.”

According to The Centers for Disease Control (CDC), more than 88 percent of adult

African Americans who smoke choose menthols, and 83 percent of African American youth smokers use menthol. Menthols are particularly dangerous to our youth. Menthol smooths out tobacco’s harshness, making it easier for our youth to start smoking, leading them down a road to a lifetime of tobacco addiction and disease.

Sylvia Amos, President of the State Baptist Women’s Auxiliary agrees.

“We must continually educate the youth in our community about the devastating harm menthol tobacco does and stop them before they start,” Amos said.

Each year, 47,000 AfricanAmericans die due to tobaccorelated illnesses. This year’s theme, “Not Another Life,” is a wake-up call to preserve the lives of our brothers and sisters through education and action.

Now is the time to bring attention to the issue of menthol, so our communities are not victimized by tobacco any longer. Our aim in Minneapolis and St. Paul is to combat the predatory marketing of mentholated tobacco products to African American communities and to assist those who want to quit in finding the support and resources they need.

Through the power of collective strength, we can impact our

communities today to create healthy futures for all.

Reverend Alphonse Reff, Wayman AME Church, Minneapolis Reverend Michael Gonzales, Mother St. James AME Church, Minneapolis Reverend Carmen Means, The Movement Church, Minneapolis Reverend Billy G. Russell, Greater Friendship Baptist Church, Minneapolis Reverend John L. Bowen, Greater Mt. Vernon Baptist Church, Minneapolis Reverend Charles Yates, Greater Mt. Nebo Baptist Church, Minneapolis Reverend

Gaither Robinson, Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, Minneapolis Reverend Charles Gill, Pilgrim Baptist Church, St. Paul Bishop Divar Kemp, New Mt. Calvary Baptist Church, St. Paul Reverends Kevin C. & Aretta-Rie Johnson, Resurrection Temple, St. Paul Reverend James Thomas, Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, St. Paul Reverend Runney D. Patterson, New Hope Baptist Church, St. Pa ul Reverend Celester Webb, United COGIC, St. Paul Reverend Vernell Benettie, New Covenant MB Church, St. Paul Bishop Charles Foye, Christ Temple, St. Paul

Goodbye (hopefully) Bert Blyleven

By Wilfred Easter, Jr. Sports Editor fredeaster@insightnews.com This diehard Twins fan fervently hopes that the appearance of Jack Morris, Tori Hunter and LaTroy Hawkins in the broadcast booth is a sign that Bert Blyleven is being phased out. The Dick Bremer/ Bert Blyleven broadcasting team has been a sore point of mine for decades. Blyleven publicly celebrates his lack of education.

I don’t want to appear elitist, but, boasting about one’s poor math skills seems to me to be setting a poor example for young

people. To be sure, he has had a successful life without the benefit of much education, but, he had a devastating 12 to 6 curveball. A path available to few, if any, of his young listeners’. Moreover, his contributions to the broadcast seem limited to the fine points of each pitchers delivery mechanics and a recitation of past stats.

If he says “balance point “ or “downward plane” one more time, l think I’ll scream. The three “auditioners” actually add to the listeners’ enjoyment of the game. They are more up to date on today’s players and managers, club house dynamics and current game strategy. Jack Morris has been out of the game as long as Bert, but, he has a broader grasp

of the game and is far more interesting at the microphone. Tori and LaTroy played with many of the current players and have a rich trove of stories and insights.

Whether or not that change is in the offing, there are excellent developments on the field. Our heroes have recently turned in two watershed games, away from home, against what l thought was one of the American League’s premier teams. They won the first two games of a series against the Baltimore Orioles in startling fashion. First, after Kyle Gibson had given up 6 runs early; they roared back with a ten run salvo over two middle innings to take control. To his credit, Kyle finished the fifth

inning strong and the 20 plus hit outburst earned him credit for the win. Next day Ervin Santana made two runs stand up with his 2 hit, complete game shutout.

And, wonder of wonders, another capable starting pitcher has appeared. Adelberto Mejia was called back from Rochester to start Saturday’s game against Kansas City. He did so well, Kyle Gibson would be a fixture in our AAA rotation if Phil Hughes wasn’t hurt again. Phil stunk it up in his Sunday start and went on the Disabled List.

So, now, we have a rotation led

by Ervin Santana, followed by Hector Santiago, Jose Berrios, Mejia and either Phil Hughes or Kyle Gibson. But, not both. I’m

Jessica Lundquist winner of Minneapolis Farmers Market Bag Design Contest Lawrence Jr. From 3 about Dwight’s experience.

Dwight left the Air Force and became a sculptor. Just this past week a Dwight work, a bust of former Minneapolis mayor Sharon Sayles Belton was unveiled inside Minneapolis City Hall. To date he has sculpted 129 pieces dedicated to African-American history.

With Dwight gone, Lawrence’s NASA candidacy renewed the hopes of Black America; he was brilliant and had impressive credentials. As Dwight’s hopes of flying into space crashed, Lawrence’s career

was gaining altitude.

Lawrence never made it to the stars. On Dec. 8, 1967, he died while training another NASA astronaut to land a F-104 Starfighter Jet. The exercise was part of a six-month training program. Lawrence sat in the rear seat as trainee, Maj. Harvey Royer, landed the jet too fast, causing it to crash on the runway. The landing gear collapsed, the canopy shattered and the plane bounced and skidded on the runway for 2,000 feet. Royer was ejected but escaped, albeit with serious injuries.

Lawrence was still strapped to his ejector seat, however, his parachute failed to open. He was dragged 75 feet

Classifieds

looking forward to summer, if it decides to come and stay.

Welcome back Lynx!!

They are off to a 4-0 start. I’m a diehard Lynx fan, too. I died hard last year when they lost a heartbreaker in the finals.

That they are a year older is not the plus for them that is is for the young Twins. We’ll see what magic Cheryl Reeve can conjure, but Lindsey Whelan and Seimone Augustus are in the twilight of their careers. Maya Moore and big Syl Fowles are still forces to be reckoned with and Rebekah Brunson is like “Ol Man River”. She just keeps rolling along. Natasha Howard, Renee Montgomery, Jia Perkins and Plenette Pierson are going to

have to step up for the Lynx to reach the finals again.

You can’t beat Minnesota summers.

The Minnesota Women’s softball team got ripped off by the NCAA tournament selection committee. They spent most of the season ranked in the top ten.

They finished the regular season ranked no.1, but couldn’t get ranked among the top 16 in the tournament and have the right to host regionals. So they had to face Alabama in Tuscaloosa.

The weather was so nice this past weekend too, we’d have handled the Tide here at Sage Cowles’ house. They must have Timberwolves’ lottery luck.

Jessica Lundquist of Anoka Hennepin Regional High School is the winning designer of the 5th Annual Minneapolis Farmers Market Reusable Bag Design Contest. Lundquist took home a $1,000 scholarship and was presented with a poster version of her design. Her artwork will also adorn hundreds of reusable bags that will be given to shoppers throughout the season. Runners up each took home $500 scholarships. Entrants followed the theme, “Give, Grow and Be Green.”

from the wreck. Just 32 years old, Lawrence was dead and so too it appeared, were Black America’s dreams of a Black astronaut in space. Even so, the fact that he was training a white pilot was an extraordinary contribution during an era when segregation and racism at NASA was still prevalent. While Lawrence’s death stunned America, the loss deeply affected Black America, which was still trying to push past the disappointment of NASA not selecting Dwight as an astronaut.

Sadly, Lawrence’s grieving widow, son, and parents would suffer emotionally in the years to come. In 1991 at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Fla., the Astronaut

Memorial Foundation (AMF) dedicated a memorial in honor of astronauts who gave their lives for the space program. NASA didn’t consider Lawrence an astronaut, saying he had never flown 50 miles. After a public campaign led

by Rep. Bobby Rush, Lawrence’s name was added to the memorial in 1997, 30 years after his death.

His widow, son, mother and sister attended the dedication.

Time has shown that Lawrence is nothing more than a name to NASA. Though his name is engraved high above on the Space Mirror Memorial, NASA doesn’t hold anniversary remembrances of Lawrence the way it does for other deceased astronauts.

Phone: 612.588.1313

As the 50th anniversary of Lawrence’s death approaches, a NASA official told the Crusader that unlike ceremonies held in Washington and at Cape Canaveral for the three Apollo 1 astronauts, there won’t be a 50th anniversary remembrance ceremony honoring Lawrence.

Fifty years after his death, NASA still maintains that Lawrence was never an astronaut.

On its website, the agency mentions the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 1 astronauts, but mentions nothing about the 50th anniversary of Lawrence’s death. Asked why NASA would add Lawrence to its astronaut memorial, yet not commemorate his other historic milestone,

Fax: 612.588.2031

the NASA official referred the Crusader to another department, which did not respond to the reporter.

It gets worse for Lawrence’s legacy. A scholarship fund set up in Lawrence’s name at Bradley University after he died was discontinued years ago.

And the Robert H. Lawrence Elementary School in Chicago closed in 2013. Some 16 years after Lawrence’s death, Guion “Guy” Bluford became the first Black astronaut to fly into space.

Mae Jemison became the first Black woman astronaut in 1987.

Since Lawrence’s death in 1967, 13 Black astronauts have traveled into orbit.

Email: info@insightnews.com

Clerk of Court

U.S. District Court, District of Minnesota is accepting applications for a full-time Clerk of Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This position is located in the U.S. Courthouse in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Court is seeking a Clerk of Court with experience as an administrator of a diverse and innovative organization, preferably in a court environment. This position has overall management authority and responsibility for the administrative activities of the Clerk’s Office, and oversees the performance of the statutory duties of the office. The position requires an individual who possesses the experience, management skills, and technical expertise necessary to anticipate and resolve complex administrative, operational, budgetary, and information technology challenges quickly and efficiently. Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills are required, along with a proven record of leadership and accomplishment.

The Clerk reports directly to the Chief United States District Judge, and communicates regularly with the district and magistrate judges and Clerk’s Office staff. The Clerk of Court works in collaboration with the Chief U.S. Probation Officer and the Clerk of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court.

The ideal candidate will have a thorough understanding of organizational, procedural, and human aspects in managing a complex organization, preferably in a court environment. Salary range is $149,213 – $198,684, Depending on Qualifications. For more information visit the court’s website http://www.mnd.uscourts.gov, Employment.

An Equal Opportunity Employer

Minnesota Council of Churches Refugee Health Case Manager, Provide intensive Case Management services to refugees with complex medical needs. http://www.mnchurches.org/about/employment.html Due 5/31/17.

STAFF ATTORNEY

Central Minnesota Legal Services seeks full-time attorney for its St. Cloud of¿ce. Fam. Law; some work in other poverty law. Licensed in MN prefd.

Post-law school pov. law exper., fam. law or clinical exper. prefd. Spanish or Somali language a plus. Salary $47,000+D.O.E. Excellent benes.

Resume with references and writing sample to CMLS, 110 6^ Avenue S, St. Cloud, MN #205, 56301. Email to smerriman@centralmnlegal.org.

Appl. deadline: 06/19/17 or until ¿lled. EOE.

Initial Opening: Thursday, June 1, 2017 through Saturday, June 3, 2017 More Information: MPHAOnline.org/FamilyWaitlist You must apply using a device with Internet access.

MPHA does not have computers available to the public.

Upon request, MPHA will provide application assistance or alternative accessible formats for qualified individuals with a disability.

To be eligible for two-bedroom family housing, you must: Have at least two family members, including one dependent.

Not exceed income limits (family of two - $54,400; family of three - $62,200).

It does not matter which day you apply.

Eligible applicants will be placed on the waitlist according to preference points.

The wait for housing may vary considerably.

Following the initial opening, the Two-Bedroom Family Waitlist will open online on the third Wednesday of every month. Family waitlists for four- and five-bedroom units are also open.

Three-Bedroom Family Waitlist closing until further notice.

This list has reached capacity, and will open for a final time on May 17, 2017.

Opportunity Equal Housing Opportunity – Equal Employment Opportunity

NOTICE: OPENINING THE 1 BEDROOM WAIT LIST Project-Based Section8/202; rent based on income for quali¿ed applicants.

Applications may be downloaded at www.commonbond.org from 9am May 15, 2017 until 4pm July 14, 2017.

Completed applications must be received by mail, on or before July 27, 2017. All quali¿ed Applicant will be placed on the Waiting List in the order they are received.

CommonBond Communities Equal Housing Opportunity

MinnesotaDepartment of Corrections Two-Bedroom Public Housing Waitlist Will Open June 1

Westonka Estates 2461 Commerce Boulevard Mound, MN 55364 952-472-4952

A career you can be proud of!

Are you seeking a career path, competitive pay, and great benefits?

The Minnesota Department of Corrections employs Special Teachers, Corrections Officers, Nurses, Food Services, Maintenance Professionals, and many more positions. For more information on all of our positions please go to: https://mn.gov/careers or visit the DOC at: www.doc.state.mn.us.

Affirmation Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.

Women, Minorities, Individuals with Disabilities, and Veterans are Encouraged to Apply.

LIL’S ANGELS MEMORY LOSS SUPPORT GROUP Northeast Minneapolis: Monroe Village, 1900 Central Ave. NE, Minneapolis; Meets the 2nd Wednesday of each month from 5 to 7:30 p.m.

South Minneapolis: Lunds & Byerly’s Grocery,1450 West Lake St., Minneapolis; Meets the 2nd Friday of each month from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m.

Brooklyn Center: Jehovah Jireh Church, 6120 Xerxes Ave. N., Brooklyn Center; Meets the 2nd Wednesday of each month from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

To RSVP, or for questions, please call Dorothea Harris at 952-945-4175 Volunteers of America MINNESOTA AND WISCONSIN

Maple Terrace 1560 Howard Avenue Maple Plain, MN 55369 763-479-1131

Oak Ridge Manor 1199 Bahls Drive Hastings, MN 55033 651-437-1367

NOTICE: OPENING THE 1 BEDROOM WAIT LIST Persons 62 years of age or older or with veri¿able disability, rent based on income for quali¿ed applicants.

NOTICE: OPENING THE 1 BEDROOM WAIT LIST Project-Based Section 202; rent based on income for quali¿ed applicants.

Applications may be downloaded at www.commonbond.org from 9am May 8, 2017 until 4pm July 7, 2017.

Applications may be downloaded at www.commonbond.org from 9am May 15, 2017 until 4pm June 13, 2017.

Completed applications must be postmarked on or before July 28, 2017. All quali¿ed Applicants will be placed on the Waiting List in the order they are received.

Completed applications must be received by mail or hand delivered, on or before June 27, 2017. All quali¿ed Applicants will be placed on the Wait List in the order they are received.

CommonBond Communities Equal Housing Opportunity

Boulevard Gardens 11333 FairĮeld Road Minnetonka, MN 55305 952-542-9338 NOTICE: OPENING 1 BEDROOM WAIT LIST Section 202 PRAC (62+) Rent based on income for qualified applicants Applications may be downloaded at www.commonbond.org or picked up at Boulevard Gardens during office hours beginning at 9AM May 1, 2017 until 12PM July 31, 2017.

Completed applications may be mailed or dropped off to Boulevard Gardens on or before August 14, 2017. All qualified Applicants will be placed on the waiting list in the order they are received.

CommonBond Communities Equal Housing Opportunity

CommonBond Communities Equal Housing Opportunity

BasseƩ Creek Commons 10505 Eight Avenue North Plymouth, MN 55441 763-416-0369 NOTICE: OPENING 1 BEDROOM WAIT LIST Section 202 PRAC (62+) Rent based on income for quali¿ed applicants Applications may be downloaded at www.commonbond.org or picked up at Bassett Creek Commons during of¿ce hours beginning at 9AM May 1, 2017 until 12PM July 31, 2017.

Completed applications may be mailed or dropped off to Bassett Creek Commons on or before August 14, 2016. All quali¿ed Applicants will be placed on the waiting list in the order they are received.

CommonBond Communities Equal Housing Opportunity

Page 10 • May 29 - June 4, 2017 • Insight News

insightnews.com Lil Boosie

Kashimana

Monday, May 29 SOUL/R&B Dr. Mambo’s Combo Bunker’s 761 N. Washington Ave. Minneapolis 9:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.

21-plus $7 The longest running soul/ funk/R&B show in town, Dr. Mambo’s Combo hits the state at Bunker’s.

Tuesday, May 30 May 29 June 11, 2017

SOUL/GOSPEL The Steeles Dakota Jazz Club 1010 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis 7 p.m. $30 Twin Cities family, The Steeles, have been a pillar in the music community. Check them out in a special show at the Dakota.

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

Wednesday, May 31 HIP-HOP/JAZZ The Feels Icehouse 2528 Nicollet Ave. S., Minneapolis 9 p.m.

21-plus $8 The Feels is a night of artistry dedicated to healing, presented by Soul Tools Entertainment and KBEM Jazz 88. This month’s event features performances by Keem

Anderson (Koo Keem), Destiny Roberts, Kashimana Ahua and Brandon Jay Riddley. Sounds

by DJ Cassieopeia with the afterset spun by DJ Miss Brit.

HIP-HOP A Great Day to Be Dope The Cabooze 917 Cedar Ave. S., Minneapolis 9 p.m.

18-plus $10 advance, 12 door Sti-Lo Reel, Tek, Baby Shel, Devon Reason, Dot Ducati, T La Shawn and DJ Airman Heat party in celebration of Niko Slim’s birthday. Hip-hop music all night long.

Thursday, June 1 YOGA Intro to Kundalini Yoga with Rebeka People’s Movement Center 763 E. 41st St., Minneapolis 6 p.m. – 7:15 p.m. $5-$20 (sliding scale) Kundalini yoga is called the “yoga of awareness.” It is a dynamic, powerful tool that is designed to give you an experience felt in the body and the soul. The class will cover the foundational aspects of kundalini yoga.

Friday, June 2 HIP-HOP Lil Boosie Privé 315 1st Ave. N., Minneapolis 10 p.m. – 2a.m.

Baton Rouge legend Boosie is one of the most respected names

in southern hip-hop. Catch a rare Minneapolis appearance.

Saturday, June 3 PARTY Frogtown Backyard Celebration Frogtown Park and Farm 946 W. Minnehaha Ave, St. Paul 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

All ages No cover Get some free food, take part in activities for the family and more at Frogtown Park and Farm.

Sunday, June 4 HIP-HOP/FOOD HWMR: Presents the Hip-Hop Brunch H. White Men’s Room 1500 44th Ave. N., Minneapolis 12 p.m. – 3p.m.

Tasty food and a new line of Black Excellence t-shirts on deck at this Black-owned business on the Northside.

Monday, June 5 COMEDY Open Mic Night Acme Comedy Co. 708 N. 1st St, Minneapolis 18-plus No cover Every Monday new comics try out their skills at Acme in downtown Minneapolis.

Tuesday, June 6

HIP-HOP Ackronem’s Summer School Honey 205 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis 9 p.m.

21-plus $3-$5 This series features Lyric Marid, Sieed Brown, Juice Lord, Omie Tha Homie and Rich Lee.

Wednesday, June 7 R&B John Legend Northrop Auditorium 84 Church St. S.E., Minneapolis 9 p.m. $82-$152 Fresh off the release of his new video, “Surefire” John Legend hits Minneapolis with the Darkness and Light tour.

Tickets are pricey but Legend is known for memorable performances.

Thursday, June 8 HIP-HOP Tupac Day Honey 205 E. Hennepin, Minneapolis 10 p.m.

21-plus $8 Celebrate the life and music of Tupac with dancing all night from DJ Airman Heat and host Big Wiz.

Friday, June 9 BLOCK PARTY Rondo Land Bridge Block Party

822 Old Rondo Ave., St. Paul 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Join ReConnect Rondo for a Rondo Land Bridge Block Party. There will be food, live music and activities for participants of all ages. There will also be an opportunity for the community to learn about the possibilities of a land bridge, ask questions and give input on what they’d like to see in their community moving forward. This event is free and open to the public.

Saturday, June 10 FASHION Out the Box: V2 Lightbox Studio 2600 26th St., Minneapolis 5 p.m. $15-$35 Royal Krew Productions is curating another edition of Out the Box Streetwear Fashion Show. Out the Box: V2, puts an emphasis on urban streetwear clothing, style, music, lifestyle and culture.

Sunday, June 11 FUNK Tuxedo (Mayer Hawthorne & Jake One) Fine Line Music Café 318 1st Ave. N., Minneapolis 7 p.m.

18-plus $20 general admission, $35 VIP Seattle-based producer Jake One joins forces with Michigan’s Mayer Hawthorne to perform as the duo Tuxedo at Fine Line. DJ King Otto spins.

UNIVERSAL PICTURES PRESENTS IN ASSOCIATION WITH PERFECT WORLD PICTURES A SECRET HIDEOUT/CONSPIRACY FACTORY/SEAN DANIEL COMPANY PRODUCTION

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BY ALEX KURTZMAN p.g.a.

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BY DAVID KOEPP AND CHRISTOPHER MCQUARRIE AND DYLAN KUSSMAN

BY ALEX KURTZMAN A UNIVERSAL PICTURE SOUNDTRACK ON BACK LOT MUSIC

© 2016 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS IMAX® IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF IMAX CORPORATION.

LOCAL LISTINGS FOR STARTS FRIDAY, JUNE 9 CHECK THEATERS AND SHOWTIMES

insightnews.com

Insight News • May 29 - June 4, 2017 • Page 11

Omar Washington

Training youth for the big leagues

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Contributor Omar Washington, a former professional baseball player with the Philadelphia Phillies and the Boston Red Sox is on a mission to increase Black participation in Major League Baseball.

It wasn’t long ago that comedian and actor Chris Rock referred to African-American baseball fans as an endangered species.

Last year, USA Today released an updated report on the demographics of Major League Baseball, which revealed that 69 of the 862 players on 2016 opening day rosters and disabled lists were African-American.

Just eight percent MLB players are African-American.

Rock’s comments and the raw numbers only serve to underscore some of the challenges faced by Washington, who heads what he calls the most successful minority youth baseball academy in the nation, Citius USA. “We have a rich history of moving young ball players to the next level to play college and, or, professional baseball,” said Washington, who was drafted in 1990 by the Philadelphia Phillies and played

Former professional baseball star Omar Washington, leads Citius USA, one of the foremost minority youth baseball academies in the nation. (Omar Washington) for the Boston Red Sox during his career. Washington’s son, Ty Washington, plays for the Florida Marlins organization.

“There are trials and tribulation,” said Washington.

“The challenges of making things happen are always tied in with the economics of it and the biggest problem in dealing with the youth in our inner-cities is finances, because parents are forced to choose whether to pay their rent, their car note or for their child to participate in baseball.”

Still, Washington and his staff have maintained a

willingness to stick to it.

With the rising cost of all-important tournaments that aspiring baseball stars must participate in, Washington estimates that he’s spent more than $27,000 of his own money to ensure that his young players were able to compete and showcase their skills.

Citius USA began in Texas, but has now expanded to New York, Florida, California and Chicago with a total of 63 teams that contain as many as 16 kids per squad.

“The tournament prices have risen to $6,400

for a bunch of kids who can’t afford it,” Washington said.

“We’ve been doing this for the last few years and you take a bunch of kids and their parents are worried about keeping their lights on, paying for their car that they need to go to work and then you tell the kid’s parent that they need $1,000 to play in a tournament.”

Former Los Angeles Angels general manager Tony Reagins, who was appointed as Major League Baseball’s senior vice president for youth programs, told the baseball news website, the Big Lead, that

research has revealed that “the financial barrier is an important barrier participating” in the decline of the participation of African-Americans.

“For soccer or basketball at the early ages, the financial outlay may include just the cost of a ball and shoes (and a relatively inexpensive pair of shin guards for soccer),” the article said. “For baseball or softball, those costs can include a bat, a fielding glove, multiple pairs of pants, batting gloves, shoes, and a batting helmet, and a bag to manage and transport all of it.”

The Big Lead article continued: “Once in the sport, the financial barriers for continuing in competition can escalate even more. This is particularly true as kids get to the 12- and 13-yearold age groups, when baseball begins to see the participation decline. Local community-based leagues may have a relatively affordable entry fee, but once tournament baseball becomes a bigger part of the equation, fees escalate.”

Tournament fees don’t include hotel accommodations, gas and food money, as well as costs for any family member who desires to travel with the player.

Washington has resisted the temptation of calling on past or present superstars like Derek Jeter, Andrew

McCutchen, Lorenzo Cain and others.

“I’m trying hard to help and, right now, we’re the number one ranked minoritybased organization in the whole country and with that you’d think those guys who have made it would look at this situation because of the economics and do something,” said Washington. “I can’t make them do anything. I would love to tell them to stop being naïve and that these kids are you. They are who you were once and they are striving to get the same opportunities that you got.”

Even the various urban youth academies run by Major League Baseball itself have failed to flourish – or at least they’ve been unsuccessful in establishing a rapport with young African-Americans.

“The programs really are nonexistent for us in the areas that we are in,” said Washington. “They don’t consider the hardships that the kids go through and they don’t address that at all. Those academies are not nearly enough to make a difference.”

So, Washington continues to push on – seeking to hit homeruns where he can, but taking it one base at a time, which he notes is the only reasonable alternative.

Amirah Vann

The “Underground” Interview with Kam Williams Ready for Her Close-Up! An actress and singer/ songwriter from Far Rockaway, Queens, Amirah Vann began performing at a young age.

Pursuing her passion for performing, she completed her undergraduate study in acting at Fordham University at Lincoln Center before entering a graduate acting program at NYU›s Tisch School of the Arts.

Soon thereafter, Vann began working with The Continuum Company. She traveled with the company to Florence, Italy, performing in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” while collaborating as a vocalist with Jonathan Batiste (“The Late Show”) to develop original music for the production. She also performed in the company’s popular production of “Pericles.”

She began her television career in roles on “Girls» (HBO), “Believe» (NBC) and «Mozart in the Jungle” (Amazon). Her film credits include “Tracers,” “And So It Goes,” “Don’t Worry Baby,” “Once More with Feeling” and “Three and a Half Thoughts.”

Vann was recently

nominated for a NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for her work in “Underground,” WGN America›s critically acclaimed hit series. Here, she talks about her role on the show as Ernestine.

Kam Williams: Hi Amirah, thanks for the interview.

Amirah Vann: It’s my pleasure, Kam. Thank you.

KW: What interested you in “Underground?”

AV: Misha Green and Joe Pokaski’s writing. It’s smart, dynamic, and bold.

KW: Congratulations on your character’s expanded role during the second season.

AV: Thank you. Ms. Ernestine is such an amazing, complex woman that I was thrilled to get the opportunity to go deeper into her story.

KW: How would you describe her in 25 words or less?

AV: She’s like so many women I know … strong, resilient, wise and beautifully flawed.

KW: Has her plight ever struck an emotional chord in you?

AV: Most definitely.

Sculpture Garden Reopens June 3

WALKER WIDE OPEN

OPEN TO ALL SIZES

Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen Spoonbridge and Cherry 1985–1988 Collection Walker Art Center; Gift of Frederick R. Weisman in honor of his parents, William and Mary Weisman, 1988 ©Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen

Media Partner

WALKER CAMPUS OPENING SPONSOR

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Amirah Vann These are our ancestors, and what they had to endure is almost unimaginable.

But the fact remains that Ms. Ernestine found the courage to get up and face another day.

So, it is my duty to share her

courage and her humanity.

KW: What message do you want people to take away from the series?

AV: Let’s all be soldiers.

Join me on the front lines.

I am arming myself with

a voice that speaks for equality and justice, a spirit of love, and a walk with God. KW: AALBC.com founder Troy Johnson asks: What was the last book you read?

AV: “God, Dr. Buzzard, and the Bolito Man” by Cornelia Bailey. It beautifully reflects both the Gullah Geechee Nation, my African-American father’s history, and my mother’s stories of Puerto Rico.

KW: What is your favorite dish to cook?

AV: My favorite meal is pollo guisado with arroz con habichuelas and a side salad with avocado, and stewed chicken with rice and beans.

KW: What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever done?

AV: Daring to pursue my dreams.

It’s not such a crazy idea y’all!

KW: If you could have one wish instantly granted, what would that be for?

AV: Leadership that reflects the diverse citizens they represent.

KW: Who is your favorite clothes designer?

AV: Hmmm...

That’s tough. I can say I love baggy

jeans and a hoodie as much as I do an elegant dress.

KW: Is there anything that you promised yourself you’d do if you became famous, that you still haven’t done yet?

AV: Give back. Love doing that and will continue.

KW: (A reader) asks: With so many classic films being redone, is there a remake you’d like to star in?

AV: I would love to be in a remake of “Set it Off.” KW: (Another reader) asks: What key quality do you believe all successful people share?

AV: They pressed on through the storm.

KW: Finally, what’s in your wallet?

AV: A Metro card. Always ready to jump on the train.

KW: Thanks again for the time, Amirah, and good luck with Underground.

AV: Thank you, Kam. To see a scene from Underground, featuring Amirah singing «Move, Daniel,» go to www.youtube.com/ watch?v=mhvVxVF0JIk.

Page 12 • May 29 - June 4, 2017 • Insight News

insightnews.com

Photos by Harry Colbert Jr.

DJ Advance at Monarch.

Those who attended the Eric Benet/Marsha Ambrosius concert at Muse Event Center in Minneapolis were treated to an outstanding evening of soul music.

For “old timers” Muse is better known as Trocaderos

– the spot that housed a bevy of soul/neosoul shows in the early to mid 2000s. Now, Muse, is a private event locale more associated with weddings than concerts. Thankfully, Muse is not exclusively a wedding venue, as it served as the perfect

Michelle Miller (left) and Gary Williams enjoying the show.

setting for crooners Benet and Ambrosius, who both sounded amazing. While both performed semi-track shows – usually a letdown for true music fans – it didn’t feel like the normal stripped-down track show. The sound was rich and full and

each artist truly performed.

Ambrosius played keys on multiple songs, helping to fill out her more than one hour set.

Twin Cities, continue to support live soul/neosoul/ R&B shows. We need more events like this.

Loving couple, Pierre Douglas (left) and D’Zire Douglas.

4 Seen’s George Shannon at the Eric Benet/Marsha Ambrosius concert.

MNHS.ORG

Explore art, race and a nation on stage through the prism of the African American experience.

Eric Benet hitting that note.

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Marsha Ambrosius’ voice sounded amazing.