Juneteenth Day Family Ride
MORE ON PAGE 10
INSIGHT NEWS Photo: Suluki Fardan
June 13 - June 19, 2011 • MN Metro Vol. 37 No. 24 • The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • www.insightnews.com
Al McFarlane
Louis King at podium provided an update to community response initiatives following the May tornado that struck North Minneapolis.
Northside Response Team
Mobilizing community assets By Al McFarlane and B.P. Ford, The Editors If it is true that stormy clouds may contain silver linings, North Minneapolis may be witnessing a golden lining in the wake of its most horrific tornado cloud experience.
Golden in the sense of the unprecedented level of compassionate, principled cooperation and sharing of resources, work, responsibility and credit. Golden in the sense of reflecting a higher standard of accountability and transparency, including the willingness to
admit and correct missteps in the rush to respond to people in need. Golden in the sense of being a community that is conscious and conscientious in clearly describing the situation and challenges in ways that render the situation analyzable and the challenges surmountable. Golden in the sense of
revealing a determination, an insistence, on cultural competence, inclusion, equity and fairness in the solution side of the natural disaster equation. Ten minutes or so, Sunday afternoon, May 22, Nature delivered destruction and mayhem in tornados that changed the look and feel of North
Minneapolis. Every minute thereafter, North Minneapolis responded with shared selflessness equal to, and most likely, greater than the storm’s impact. That was evident again last Tuesday afternoon when representatives of legacy community service agencies, and
city and county government, and businesses in North Minneapolis, announced that nearly 60 organizations ranging from nonprofits to faith-based groups are involved in the recovery effort to rebuild the area.
NORTHSIDE 9 TURN TO
Comcast donates $50,000 Northside recovery Comcast last week contributed $50,000 in cash and in-kind support to the tornado relief efforts in North Minneapolis. A donation of $30,000 from the Comcast Foundation went directly to the Minneapolis Foundation to assist with family and community needs in the aftermath of the devastating tornado that hit the community on May 22, 2011. Comcast augments that contribution with a minimum of $20,000 of in-kind public service announcement support to help raise awareness of on-going relief efforts. Minnesota State Representative Bobby Joe Champion and Minneapolis Council Member Don Samuels, as well as Sherman Patterson,
representing Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak were on hand for the check presentation Thursday at Comcast’s regional technical training facility, 801 Plymouth Av. North in North Minneapolis. The Comcast Foundation contribution supports two specific relief efforts - Minneapolis Helps – North Minneapolis Recovery Fund, and the Northside Home Fund. Both charities are providing assistance to families displaced by the storm by providing immediate food and shelter and longer-term needs such as rebuilding homes and businesses. “Comcast is pleased to support the North Minneapolis relief efforts and to lend a helping hand to families and
businesses affected by the destructive storm,” said Mary Beth Schubert, vice president of Corporate Affairs, Comcast Twin Cities. “We are grateful to The Minneapolis Foundation for creating a structure that enables organizations like Comcast to deliver funding and support to those in need.” Minneapolis Helps – North Minneapolis Recovery Fund established by the Minneapolis Foundation to help cover basic needs such as food and shelter for families displaced when homes were damaged and destroyed by the May tornado.
COMCAST TURN TO 9
Suluki Fardan
L-R: Sherman Patterson, Minneapolis Mayor’s Office; Emmett Coleman, Comcast Vice President of Government Relations; Celois Steele, Chair, Minneapolis Urban League; Ron Hick, Executive Director, West Broadway Business Area Coalition; Mary Beth Shubert, Comcast Corporate Affairs Vice President; Frank Forsberg, Senior Vice President of United Way; Sandra Vargas, President Minneapolis Foundation; State Representative Bobby Joe Champion (58-B); and Don Samuels, 5th Ward Minneapolis City Council.
Multicultural markets matter By Gerry Fernandez BUSINESS RATIONALE FOR MULTICULTURAL MARKETS The 2010 Census results made it clear beyond any reasonable doubt that minority, immigrant and multicultural consumers are driving the growth of the U.S. population and its economy. Similarly, multicultural markets are fueling the employment
pipeline for many industries, especially for the restaurant, foodservice, and lodging segments. All this growth in multicultural consumer segments means that there is business opportunity in serving the needs of these populations. The U.S., as well as global markets, is fast becoming multicultural in nature. Urban areas all across America have high concentrations of Black, Asian, and Latino residents. In fact, in
Education
Jeremy Lind Elementary gets VH1 Save the Music grant
PAGE 4
many of these communities, we actually represent the majority. Urban markets offer huge opportunities for operators who have the knowledge, vision and cultural intelligence to engage them. The spending power of Asian, Black, and Latino markets, which exceeds $1 Trillion dollars cannot and should not be ignored. The restaurant, foodservice and lodging industry is the number one employer of immigrants, minorities, and young people
Aesthetics
Beauchamp: Still investigating unsolved lynchings
PAGE 5
looking for career opportunities. These populations can provide the talent necessary for hospitality operators that wish to penetrate domestic emerging markets, while also becoming customers for the very companies they power. Urban market customers and employees are one in the same. As the hospitality industry grows, and suburban real estate becomes scarce, so called “nontraditional” locations have become more attractive. Urban
communities with high minority populations such as Brooklyn and Harlem in New York have produced high revenue generating restaurants for companies like Red Lobster and I-Hop. Urban and multicultural markets offer business opportunity; plain and simple. Global is important, but business leaders must not take their eye off the ball of opportunity that exists in their own back yards. Urban and domestic markets offer job
Lifestyle
Dan Bachman kicks off urban garden project
PAGE 8
growth and profits right here in America. THE MULTICULTURAL WORKFORCE The U.S. talent pool is fast becoming multicultural in nature. Consequently, the companies who build their employment brand with cultural sensitivity will be positioned to attract the best and brightest talent.
MARKETS TURN TO 4
Health
Senator Al Franken named Legislator of the Year
PAGE 11
Page 2 • June 13 - June 19, 2011 • Insight News
insightnews.com
Budget deficit: Choices and priorities Capitol Report By Rena Moran State Rep. District 65A This session was about choices and priorities. With Minnesota’s future at a crossroads, it was absolutely essential to make calculated, thoughtout decisions about how to strengthen the working and middle class and create jobs, in a way that was not only fair, but would also protect the most
vulnerable Minnesotans. New to the legislature, my top priority was balancing our state’s record budget deficit in a fair and equitable way that would encourage broad prosperity. I understood that this could not be accomplished without working in cooperation with members on the other side of the aisle and recognized that not only would they need to compromise, but so would I. Since entering the legislature, I have aligned my position on solving the budget deficit with Governor Dayton’s proposed solution—imposing a more fair tax system. Currently, the wealthiest Minnesotans pay a smaller percentage of
their income in state and local taxes as compared to working and middle class Minnesotans. Many have referred to the Governor’s plan as a “tax the rich” strategy, however, that is a misinterpretation. This budget solution would simply ask the top earners in our state to pay their fair share—the amount that middle class families pay. Merriam Webster’s dictionary defines compromise as “something intermediate between or blending qualities of two different things.” While the Governor has made steps towards finding middle ground with the Republican majority by raising taxes on the top 2% of earners instead of the top 5%,
Republicans have not moved one inch from their original offer. In fact, Speaker Zellers has said the GOP budget is their “first, best, and last offer.” I find it incredibly troubling that the Republican majority is unwilling to meet Governor Dayton half way and are instead choosing to make protecting the wealthiest 2% of Minnesotans their top priority. In order to protect special interests and the wealthiest 2% of Minnesotans, the Republican budget proposal would have devastating consequences for 98% of Minnesotans. Property taxes would increase by $1.3 billion across the state due to local property tax relief
cuts, reduction in the renters’ credit, and the elimination of the Market Value Homestead Credit, increasing the burden on homeowners and those with a fixed income. The GOP budget would grow the size of classrooms by making severe cuts to K-12 education, creating winners and losers for our children with disproportionate cuts across the state and deep cuts to special education. Urban students would see the most devastating cuts as Saint Paul Public Schools would be cut $8.5 million and Minneapolis Public Schools would be cut $9.6 million over the next two years. Additionally, the GOP budget
would make the largest cut to higher education in Minnesota’s history, severely restricting postsecondary opportunities for students across the state. As a result of drastic cuts to Health and Human Services, approximately 145,000 Minnesotans would lose health care coverage and seniors and disabled persons would see a reduction in services that allow them to live independently. Exorbitant cuts to hospitals would increase insurance premiums and eliminate good paying jobs people in our community rely on to support
MORAN TURN TO 3
Saint Paul City Councilmember Melvin Carter honored with National Leadership Award U.S. Representative Keith Ellison presented Saint Paul City Councilmember Melvin Carter, III with the Barbara Jordan Leadership Award on June 2nd at the Young Elected Officials Network national convening in Washington, DC. Given annually, the Barbara Jordan Leadership Award recognizes young elected officials with a distinguished record of public service to their community and to the progressive movement at large. Regarding the award, Representative Ellison had the following to say: “I’ve known and worked with Councilmember Carter on progressive issues for years now and this award recognizes what I and others have always known about him. His work on affordable housing, education, and access to good jobs at the local level is the sort of work we should be carrying over to the national level. Melvin lives the ideal that access to opportunity for everyone is critical to our shared success. This award is well deserved and I look forward to working with him in the future.” “It is a distinct honor to have been acknowledged by my peers from across the country with this award. Barbara Jordan was
Elliot Stewart-Franzen
Melvin Carter III
a champion for voting rights and equality, and unfortunately, those issues remain relevant today,” stated Councilmember Carter. “I am proud of the work we’ve done in the city of Saint Paul to advance equality, eliminate the achievement gap, provide job training opportunities, and increase access to transit so residents can secure good-paying jobs to support their families. This award underscores the critical importance of that work.” Councilmember Carter was recognized for his policy work as well as his efforts to build the progressive movement, including: serving as Minnesota State Director for the YEO Network; training organizers
and candidates in 26 states with several national organizations, including Wellstone Action, People For the American Way Foundation, and Progressive Majority; and engaging young people through unique events, such as “Candidate Karaoke,” an annual candidate forum where participants have to sing before they can speak. Councilmember Carter’s major policy areas of focus are education and transit. In 2009, he created a coalition among City, County, School, and community leaders to support high quality education outcomes for all children. That coalition was the foundation for what is now Saint Paul Promise Neighborhood, one of 21 Promise Neighborhoods nationwide to receive a planning grant from the U.S. Department of Education. An advocate for transit equity, Councilmember Carter has fought tirelessly for residents and businesses along Saint Paul’s planned Central Corridor Light Rail Line. As part of a broad community movement, he has worked to secure additional stations, support local businesses through construction, and create employment training and affordable housing opportunities
along the Corridor. Barbara Jordan, co-founder of People For the American Way Foundation, was a true visionary and public servant. Serving as the first African-American woman in the Texas State Legislature, and the first African-American US Congresswoman from the Deep South, she championed voting rights and the causes of the poor, the disadvantaged, and people of color. To honor Congresswoman Jordan’s dedication to public service and our country, each year the YEO Network recognizes an outstanding young elected official who is following in her footsteps. The Young Elected Officials (YEO) Network, a project of People for the American Way Foundation, consists of over 600 young, progressive City, County, State and Federal officials from all 50 states. At the network’s convening, elected officials discuss best practices and innovative policy solutions for issues ranging from economic development and education, to environmental policy and national security. For more information, please visit http://www.yeonetwork.org/ content/about-barbara-jordanleadership-award.
Chez’ron Marie Anderson
Chez’ron Marie Anderson dies Chez’ron Marie Anderson died in a traffic accident on June 2, 2011 doing what she loved to do — traveling to visit family and friends. She was loved by many for her warmth, compassion and non-judgmental approach to life. Anderson, as co-founder of Alternatives: A Program for Youth – a Minneapolis, Minnesota non-profit organization that focused on
challenges faced by “youth of promise’ in North Minneapolis, was able to give back through her work and was known as a friendly and positive youth advocate. Her early life was not an easy one, she become a single parent and struggled to overcome a number of adversities. Despite these challenges, Anderson did
ANDERSON TURN TO 3
insightnews.com
Insight News • June 13 - June 19, 2011 • Page 3
BUSINESS Let me get back to you on that Plan Your Career By Julie Desmond julie@insightnews.com Abbe’s co-worker is so laid-back. “He waits on everything,” she says. “He doesn’t return calls or respond to emails. He loses orders all the time. I wish he’d show some interest in his job!” The guy Abbe works with probably doesn’t lack interest. What he lacks is urgency. Urgency: the instinct to move rapidly to impact an outcome. Urgency
Moran From 2 their family. In addition to these reductions in services that
Anderson From 2 overcome with a combination of assistance and intestinal fortitude. Anderson’s earliest experiences behind her, found an opportunity to leave the bad to embrace the good. After a near fatal brain aneurism and the care of a childhood and long-time friends, she made a life-change. Anderson worked with one of those friends, Winfred Payne, to co-found Alternatives. The two worked tirelessly to develop the concept of a safe place for young people to gather and focus on alternatives to gang violence, drugs, crime, poverty
that fateful moment when he’s in it. Urgency happens when you’re paying attention and you know what outcome you are expecting. If Abbe’s co-worker knows what he’s waiting for (an order from a paying customer), is prepared for the conversation (knows his product or service and believes in it) and wants to impact results (make the sale, keep his job), then urgency happens. Some focused training will get this person into position, ready to move a little faster when he should.
back of the seat ahead of you. If your plane drops into Lake
Michigan, and your response is, “Let me get back to you on that,” then you’d better be a strong swimmer. Knowing in advance that there’s a life vest nearby ensures that in an emergency you will know what action to take. Urgency requires preparation. Because urgency impacts outcome, a sense of urgency comes more easily when a person has clear goals in mind. A good baseball game is all about urgency in action. If Abbe’s co-worker is standing on first base and a ball comes his way, will he say, “Let me get back to you on that?” Let’s hope not. Urgency kicks in because the guy has been ready, waiting, in the right place with a glove on his hand. He knows
2% of Minnesotans and the special interests that elected them, neglecting the needs and interests of the majority of Minnesotans. Instead of a session characterized by unity, fairness, and enterprise, this year’s session has become emblematic of misplaced
priorities and missed opportunities. These cuts will have devastating impacts on our community. I call on you to contact Governor Dayton and urge him to continue fighting on behalf of hard working, middle class families, seniors,
the disabled, children, and the disenfranchised. You can contact Governor Dayton by calling his office at 651.201.3400 or by submitting concerns online at http://mn.gov/governor/contactus/form. As always I ask for your continued partnership as we
move forward with the important work of this legislative session. Please contact me with any questions, ideas, or concerns. You can reach me by phone at 651.296.5388 or by email at rep.rena.moran@house.mn. We work better when we work together.
youth serviced by Alternatives. She coordinated daily activities, chaperoned outings to plays, baseball and basketball games, community events, and the like. Anderson attended meetings with representatives from corporations, government, and community organizations to promote Alternatives. She learned to use a computer to keep records and supervise the required computer keyboarding for every young person who participated in Alternatives. Teen mothers found her to be particularly supportive; she helped them care for their children and encouraged them to finish school and to be patient as they learned how to manage the magnitude of their new responsibilities. The gatekeeper
for respect among their peers, under her watch, the young people were not allowed to disrespect anyone or fight, any other negative behavior found no tolerance at Alternatives or from Ms. Chez’ron. Chez’ron’s life’s arc is a story about overcoming adversity and finding triumph through Christ. Chez’ron developed a deep and abiding faith, and embraced her religious commitment with zeal. She read her Bible daily and prayed constantly. She was frequently heard saying “Thank you Jesus for letting me live another day,” which she uttered every time she saw the beauty of the sun, even if it was twenty times a day. This faith and zeal for life allowed Chez’ron to live her life to the fullest. She never
complained. She never belittled others and she welcomed all with open arms. Chez’ron leaves a legacy of love to all those who knew & loved her. Her father Eddie Jackson, uncle Harry Anderson (Minneapolis, MN), sisters Kimberly Dawn Anderson (Minneapolis, MN), Candice Kibsgaard (Des Moines, IA) and Deborah Ann Jackson (Minneapolis, MN); brothers Eddie Jackson, Jr., Troy Jackson and Gregory Jackson, (all of Minneapolis, MN) and Rollandow Kibsgaard (Fort Lauderdale, FL); daughter Dum-A-Nagan Anderson Evans (Atlanta, GA), sons DeMonte Anderson & DeMeiko Anderson (Minneapolis, MN), her nephew and godson, Mario Anderson
Whitfield (Minneapolis, MN); her Alternatives co-founder, friend and “adoptive father” - Winfred Payne, whom she called “Dad”; ten grandchildren and a host of family and friends. The Chez’ron M. Anderson Memorial Fund has been created to defray memorial expenditures. Subsequent funds will be transferred to a foundation being established in her name, which will serve female “youth of promise” between the ages of 7 – 18 who face life challenges. Donations are being accepted on behalf of the Anderson Memorial Fund by Reverend Kelly Chatman of the Redeemer Center for Life. Checks and contributions should be marked “Chez’ron M. Anderson Memorial Fund.”
can’t be taught. Or can it? First a person needs to know what urgency is. The same guy who is slow to respond to customers likely would recognize urgency in other settings. Imagine walking into a sandwich shop, placing an order and hearing, “Oh, let me get back to you on that.” Instead, a good server moves rapidly to make the sandwich happen, because they know what’s on the line: customer satisfaction, money, their job. Once Abbe’s co-worker knows what urgency looks like, he has to realize that urgency doesn’t manifest itself out of nowhere. Think of your last plane trip. Concerted effort goes into making sure urgency prevails in case of emergency.
For example, the words Life Vest Under Seat appear on
many in our state rely on, the budget Republican budget proposal would eliminate more than 30,000 jobs at a time when 200,000 Minnesotans are unemployed. The Republican majority has made it their priority to represent the interests of the wealthiest and hopelessness. Anderson’s approach was the same whether addressing cautious and tough talking youth, skeptical county and city officials or distrustful parents and family members. She greeted everyone warmly, never became discouraged or angry--nothing could change her cheerful demeanor. The youth she worked with called her “Ms. Chez’ron” and knew that they had an advocate in her, no matter the nature of their troubles. Besides serving as a member of the Board of Directors for Alternatives, Anderson prepared and served two meals a day, six days a week during summer vacation and holiday breaks, and dinner every night of the school year for the
PhotoXpress
Julie Desmond is a recruiter with Specialized Recruiting Group in Edina, MN. Write to Julie@insightnews.com.
insightnews.com
Insight News • June 13 - June 19, 2011 • Page 5
AESTHETICS Beauchamp: Still investigating unsolved lynchings Interview
By Kam Williams kam@insightnews.com Award-winning filmmaker, Keith Beauchamp found his calling while making his first documentary about Emmett Louis Till, the 14-year-old Black boy who was abducted and tortured to death in August of 1955 for allegedly whistling at a white woman. The suspects subsequently arrested for the lynching were all acquitted by an all white jury. That heart-wrenching story of a young boy, beaten, shot, and thrown in a river, ignited the early civil rights movement. Decades later, the case was re-opened by the FBI because Keith Beauchamp uncovered new information in the course
INSIGHT NEWS www.insightnews.com
Insight News is published weekly, every Monday by McFarlane Media Interests. Editor-In-Chief Al McFarlane CFO Adrianne Hamilton-Butler Publisher Batala-Ra McFarlane Associate Editor & Associate Publisher B.P. Ford Vice President of Sales & Marketing Selene White Director of Content & Production Patricia Weaver Sr. Content & Production Coordinator Ben Williams Production Intern Andrew Notsch Distribution/Facilities Manager Jamal Mohamed Facilities Support / Assistant Producer, Conversations with Al McFarlane Bobby Rankin Receptionist Lue B. Lampley Staff Writer Ivan B. Phifer Contributing Writers Maya Beecham Brenda Colston Julie Desmond S. Himie Marcia Humphrey Alaina L. Lewis Ryan T. Scott Lydia Schwartz Stacey Taylor Photography Suluki Fardan Tobechi Tobechukwu Contact Us: Insight News, Inc. Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Ave. N. Minneapolis., MN 55411 Ph.: (612) 588-1313 Fax: (612) 588-2031 Member: Minnesota Multicultural Media Consortium (MMMC), Midwest Black Publishers Coalition, Inc. (MBPCI), National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) Postmaster: Send address changes to McFarlane Media Interests, Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55411.
murders. As each day passes, perpetrators and witnesses to these murders die off. So, it’s a race against time to get justice for those who paved the way for us to exist in this ‘free society’ and for their families.
of his research for The Untold Story of Emmett Louis Till. Bolstered by his ability to connect with potential witnesses who otherwise might not come forward in communities where such Civil Rights crimes have occurred, Beauchamp has become a passionate advocate for survivors seeking justice for victims and has assisted the FBI by developing new leads for some of the still unsolved cases from this shameful troubled chapter in American history. For his new TV series, The Injustice Files, Beauchamp combs through records; interviews family members, witnesses and investigators; and pieces together the known facts of each case. Beauchamp also attempts to interview potential suspects and individuals who may know who was responsible for these murders, sometimes confronting them in their driveways after attempts to contact them for interviews prove unsuccessful. Here, director/producer/ host Beauchamp talks about The Injustice Files which airs on the Investigation Discovery Network. (Check local listings for airtimes, or visit: http:// investigation.discovery.com/tv/ injustice-files/episode-guide. html)
KW: Is there any question no one ever asks you, that you wish someone would? KB: Yes. Have I ever received financial and moral support from prominent AfricanAmericans? KW: The Columbus Short question: Are you happy? KB: Wow, that’s a hard question. Considering the type of work I’m doing, it does have its downside. Dealing with death daily can really play on your mind and you find yourself often in dark places. I’m happy when I’m in the field working and producing my work. I still haven’t found a way to balance my personal and business life because I eat and breathe this work day in and day out. There are so many families who need help. I often joke that I will need some serious therapy when I’m done.
Kam Williams: Hi Keith, thanks for the time. Keith Beauchamp: Thank you Mr. Williams, for giving me another opportunity to share my work with you and the public. KW: What gave you the idea for The Injustice Files? KB: The Injustice Files is an extension of my previous work profiling Civil Rights murders from the 1950s and 1960s. It’s my third TV production produced in collaboration with the FBI’s Civil Rights Cold Case Initiative that began in 2007. KW: Tell me a little about the series? KB: The series is a 3-part docuseries produced by CBS News’ heavyweight, Susan Zirinsky and Eye Too Productions and premiered on Investigation Discovery. It follows the investigative efforts of myself and the FBI’s Civil Rights Unit Chief, Cynthia Deitle. There are three unsolved civil rights murders from the 1960s, of Wharlest Jackson, Oneal Moore and William Lewis Moore, that we hope to get solved.
KW: The Teri Emerson question: When was the last time you had a good laugh? KB: It’s really hard to say. I try to entertain myself by watching TV from time to time and my last laugh I would have to say watching old reruns of Sanford and Son. I’m a huge fan of old African-American sitcoms.
Keith Beauchamp KW: How hard was it to get the series off the ground, given the popular notion of America being post-racial? KB: It’s challenging to get a project of this nature greenlighted for TV. When I walk into a network, I always have to prove why this project is so important for this day and time. When you speak about Injustices and the Civil Rights Movement, many feel that it’s a thing of the past and it’s a Black issue, but in reality it’s an American issue. These are murders that need to be solved to help bring justice and closure for the victims’ families and we have all benefited from the American Civil Rights Movement. Racism still exists in this country and to forget our past we are doomed to repeat it. KW:
Do
you
ever
feel
concerned about your own safety while reopening these cases? KB: Dr. King once stated, “If a man hasn’t discovered something that he will die for, he isn’t fit to live.” This is a quote that I use everyday of my life investigating these murders, so my own safety has never been a concern. Although, I’m completely aware of the dangers that exist, I fear no man but God. KW: Are you getting support from the federal and local authorities when you are able to identify a perpetrator who is still alive? KB: Yes, that’s what makes this new project so exceptional. It was done with the full participation of the FBI and these cases are active investigations. It’s the first project of its kind where you have a filmmaker and the FBI working side by side for
a common goal, which is to get justice and closure for the families and the communities stricken with this pain. KW: How do you want viewers to react to episodes of Injustice Files? KB: I want people to understand that these murders need immediate attention. This is not just about learning our history; we need to solve these
KW: What is your guiltiest pleasure? KB: Riding in my SUV with the sunroof and windows open with music blasting. KW: The bookworm Troy Johnson question: What was the last book you read? KB: Unfortunately, I haven’t
BEAUCHAMP 11 TURN TO
Page 4 • June 13 - June 19, 2011 • Insight News
insightnews.com
EDUCATION Lind Elementary gets VH1 Save The Music grant Jenny Lind Elementary School is a public school in the Minneapolis Public School District in Minneapolis, Minnesota. We were the honored recipient of a VH1 Save The Music Foundation grant in the Fall of 2009. This wonderful program gave us 36 quality string instruments for our students to use. School principal, Aura Wharton Beck has the vision for all students in first through fourth grade to play a string instrument. During the first year of having our new instruments, I taught group violin lessons to all first graders. This school year we now have all the first and second graders taking violin lessons! Jenny Lind Elementary is an 87% free and reduced lunch school. We feel our students deserve to learn to play an instrument but realize that renting one from a store is not
Courtesy of MacPhail Center for Music
an option. Having the VH1 Save The Music grant is an incredible gift to our students and our community because it gives our students beautiful sounding instruments that will help them be successful string players. On February 17, 2011, we had our first grade “Take Your Instrument Home Concert.” Eighty-one first graders performed with hundreds of family and friends in the audience! It was wonderful. The students were so proud of themselves and many adults had tears in their eyes, including our principal and myself. The students take great pride and ownership in taking an instrument home to practice. We have a slogan at Jenny Lind Elementary, “Practice is Home Work.” Whether they are practicing their violin or their math, they are practicing for life.
Making girls smart, strong and bold By Chris Garner Contributing Writer Girls Inc. inspires girls to be smart, strong, and bold through their informal education which includes Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math— STEM. Girls Inc.’s roots go back to 1864 New England, and in Minnesota at the YWCA of Minneapolis it has been alive and well since the 1970s and was officially affiliated in 2007. Their goal, besides giving girls a safe environment, is to help them gain education in ways
they might not be able to in a school setting. “Girls still face a lot of inequalities today, and our program intentionally works to compensate for those inequities and make sure girls have the confidence and the tools to become self sufficient adults,” said Christa Perkins coordinator of all Girls Inc. programs at the YWCA of Minneapolis. Girls Inc. reaches hundreds of girls annually in Minneapolis Public Schools, predominantly girls of color with programs focused on academic success in STEM, leadership development, financial literacy, and healthy
decision making. The YWCA’s mission is to eliminate racism, and empower women and Perkins believes that by giving girls of color the power of education, they are helping shape smart, strong, and bold women of tomorrow. The program works to serve all girls regardless to demographic or parental income. They strive to make sure that girls have the tools to not just be smart in the classroom but in their everyday life. “We want to make sure our girls know the importance of saving money, spending money, sharing, and giving back to
the community. We want to make sure we give them the tools to be financially stable and independent adults and we too work around pregnancy prevention,” said Perkins. “Just because I’m a girl doesn’t mean I can’t do things,” said Laura Robinson, freshman Geological Engineering major at the University of Minnesota. Through Girls Inc., Robinson discovered her love for math and engineering. The South High School graduate credits Girls Inc.’s nonconventional learning environment which often introduces girls to women in the fields of Science, Technology,
Engineering, and Math to spark her interest in all things math related, and even power tools. “They made learning really fun,” said Robinson. At Girls Inc. girls are introduced to different women who have continued to break down barriers and show that anything boys can do, girls can do too—or better. They are also taught to break down the stereotypes set upon them be it race, gender, or culture. Though this year’s annual program is coming to an end, girls in grades 4–6 have the opportunity to learn how great it is to be a girl at Girls Inc.’s
summer program to be held at North Commons Park starting June 20. For those interested in finding out more information about Girls Inc. and the YWCA of Minneapolis, contact Christa Perkins at (612) 215-4375 or by email at cperkins@ywcampls. org. And for more information about Girls Inc. summer camp, contact Michelle Weeks at (612) 522-6559 ext. 2 or by email at mweeks@ywcampls. org. Scholarships are available, and Girls Inc. insists that they turn no girls away if they are unable to pay.
Six schools selected for Target-sponsored reading initiative Understanding that approximately 6,000 K-3 students in Minneapolis are not on track to reach the critical
academic milestone of reading proficiently by the end of third grade. Target recently announced plans to donate $6 million to
Minneapolis Public Schools over the next three years to support reading initiatives. As part of this donation, Target
convened the University of Minnesota Center for Reading Research and Minnesota Reading Corps to launch a pilot literacy intervention framework called Path to Reading Excellence in School Sites (PRESS) in six Minneapolis schools this fall. Today, Target is announcing the six schools that have been chosen to participate in the inaugural year of PRESS. These schools include: Marcy Open School Anishinabe Academy Anne Sullivan Communication Center Pillsbury Elementary
Harvest Preparatory School Best Academy Through this program, the selected schools will benefit from four key elements, including: A focus on quality core instruction with a school schedule that allows a literacy block of 90 minutes for instruction plus 30 additional minutes for supplemental intervention or enrichment in literacy Professional development for powerful staff development by allowing teachers to continuously improve and share their learning as well as monitor the progress of each student
A systematic process for data collection and prescriptive data analyses Tiered interventions and support for students who are not making adequate progress toward reading proficiency with the quality core instruction offered in the classroom This new initiative is just one example of how Target is striving to drive better reading outcomes in Minneapolis and nationwide. As a result of programs such as PRESS, Target is on track to reach $1 billion in giving to education, with a focus on reading, by the end of 2015.
Markets
respects and understands their unique cultural needs. In today’s world, it’s more about culture than color. Companies with high levels of cultural sensitivity, cultural connectivity, and cultural fluency will be able to navigate the changing marketplace more quickly than the competition. The challenge for the hospitality industry lies in the lack of diversity at the executive levels of management. While there are high percentages of Black and Latino employees at entry level, there are too few represented at the midand executive levels to help build the necessary cultural intelligence and connectivity. Some companies like McDonald’s and Darden (Red Lobster, Olive Garden, and Longhorn Steakhouse) have proved themselves capable of developing diverse talent to middle management and executive positions. However, for most restaurant and lodging companies very little tangible results can be seen. Without multicultural representation at senior levels, foodservice and hospitality companies cannot increase their cultural competency and cultural connectivity fast enough to keep pace with other industries. Consequently, the industry will not be attractive to the best and brightest multicultural talent.
re-investing in the communities, in which they operate, is the forest industry. When they harvest trees they re-plant new trees to ensure success for the next generation. For every harvested tree, logging companies replant three new trees to ensure success for the next generation. According to the American Forest and Paper Association “the forest industry’s commitment to sustainability, has produced 20% more trees today than there were 25 years ago on the first Earth Day.” Sustainability as a concept must be applied to how companies work with communities of color. Establishing robust supplier diversity partnerships that are committed to helping multicultural business grow is a sustainability strategy. The foodservice and hospitality industry must “plant trees in its own backyard” by targeting urban and multicultural communities for entrepreneurial talent. Multicultural means business opportunityopportunity to attract talent, to gain new customers, to create new business partners and to make profit. Multicultural consumers are very loyal and supportive of companies that support their communities; and they tend to reward those who give back. Commitment to supplier diversity is a simple way to demonstrate company’s willingness to re-invest in the communities and a proven way to earn loyalty from multicultural communities.
From 1 Diverse and multicultural talent will gravitate to work environments where they feel engaged, valued, and given the opportunity to contribute to the company’s success at the highest levels. Career opportunities along with a culturally sensitive and welcoming work environment must be highly visible to them or they will turn their interests toward other employers. In today’s world however, companies who want to succeed long term, cannot afford to lose these talents. The foodservice and hospitality industry is competing with other business sectors that have far more experience in engaging multicultural audiences. These industry segments include telecommunications, utilities & energy, professional services, technology, health care, and financial services. The food and hospitality industry will have to get significantly better at engaging diverse and multicultural communities if they want to compete for top talent. The restaurant, lodging, and foodservice segments have high minority engagement with both employees and customers. Yet, representation at executive levels of leadership and in the franchisee community is seriously lagging. A strategic urban focus could help improve the number of people of color that rise to senior leadership and ownership positions. THE ROLE OF CULTURAL UNDERSTANDING Management teams, in today’s markets, must build their “Cultural IQ” if they want to grow and lead diverse teams while delivering great business results. Multicultural consumers respond to leadership that
SUPPLIER DIVERSITY EQUALS COMMUNITY SUSTAINABILITY No company should look to communities without the concern for their long term economic health. It is only natural to want the communities, from which you draw employees and customers, to be healthy and prosperous. A commitment to supplier diversity is a way to make this happen and it is a form of sustainability. One example of companies
OTHER AREAS OF OPPORTUNITY Looking ahead, there are several additional key concerns for the foodservice and hospitality industry. They include: The velocity of changing demographics is increasing fast;
MARKETS TURN TO 9
Page 6 • June 13 - June 19, 2011 • Insight News
Renters
insightnews.com
• If your home is not getting the necessary repairs • If you have safety concerns about your residence
The City wants to hear from anyone who is concerned about the safety or livability of their home or apartment. To report issues with rental properties call 311 (612-673-3000) if calling outside of Minneapolis)
North Point Health and Wellness Center, Community cleanup
1315 Penn Avenue North, Minneapolis, is accepting donations to assist Northside residents who were affected by the May tornado. Food, hygiene and paper good donations can be dropped off at the NorthPoint food shelf. The food shelf and other areas of North Point are always in need of volunteers. There are volunteer opportunities for individuals, families and groups, for one-time events or projects and on a long-term basis. All donations are weighed with a receipt issued. Food donations can also be picked up. Call to make arrangements: 612-767-9175 For cash donations to North Point Health and Wellness Center Inc., one hundred percent of cash donations are used to purchase food items at cooperative prices from local food banks. Mail checks to North Point Food Shelf, 1315 Penn Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55411. Donations by credit card can be made online at www. northpointhealth.org.
efforts are being coordinated by several organizations. One is Urban Homeworks (immediate volunteer needs met; check Facebook page for updates).
Red Cross
shelter has moved to the North Commons Recreation Center at 1801 James Ave N. 612-871-7676 (The shelter at the National Guard Amory is now closed)
Minneapolis Public Works and Park The Salvation Army long-term recovery for North Board crews continue to work in north Minneapolis to make Minneapolis tornado survivors started last week. Families and
provide debris pickup for property owners in the affected area. Visit the city website or call 311 for more information.
Community radio station KMOJ continues to
share information about relief needs on the air (89.9 FM) and on the station’s website, www.kmoj.com. North Minneapolis Post Tornado Watch at http://www. facebook.com/mplstornado is a Facebook page providing updates on relief efforts.
individuals coming to The Salvation Army Worship and Service Center at 2024 Lyndale will be served through its regular social service programs. Qualifications for service will be based on need and available resources. The Salvation Army center is offering limited supply of foodshelf items and hygiene products for tornado survivors who are living in the official disaster zone area. Office hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday while supplies last. The Salvation Army has served 1,150 families so far from its 2024 Lyndale location since May 23. Other families from North Minneapolis are always welcome at our service center as we have been serving our neighbors there since 1897.
University of Minnesota Physicians Phyllis Wheatley Community Center is directly contacting and visiting client families in the community, Broadway Family Medicine at Emerson & including those staying in area shelters to determine and address The Prayer Center 821 1/2 West Broadway Minneapolis, Broadway is open to provide healthcare to those in need. People can call 612-302-8200 for an appointment. They can also re-charge cell phones and use our public computer while here. We are on the 5 and the 14 bus line.
The Disaster Recovery Center
at Farview Recreation Center at 621 29th Ave. N. has resources for other health related concerns including trauma and mental health.
Minneapolis Urban League (MUL) is partnering
with local emergency response organizations to assist in providing direction and support to tornado victims. MUL’s Glover-Sudduth Building in North Minneapolis at, 2100 Plymouth Avenue N. 612-302-3100, and MUL’s Sharon SaylesBelton Community Services Building in South Minneapolis, (address) 612-827-5673 are open and available to take inquiries. MUL is working with other community partners to assess the damage and needs in North Minneapolis and provide additional onsite support to the relief efforts in the area. Elected officials contact numbers: Ward 3 Council Offices Diane Hofstede - 612-673-2203 Ward 4 Council Offices Barbara Johnson - 612-673-2204 Ward 5 Council Offices Don Samuels - 612-673-2205 State Representative, District 58A Joe Mullery - 651-296-4262 State Representative, District 58B Bobby Jo Champion - 651-296-8659 State Senator, District 58 Linda Higgins - 651-296-9246 County Commissioner District 2 Mark Stenglein - 612-788-1235 US Congressman Keith Ellison - 612-522-1212 Legal Aid - 612-332-1441
unique needs and potential longer term issues. If you are a current client/program participant and have not heard from us, please call us at 612-374-4342 to let us know where you are and how you are doing.
Urban Homeworks is organizing volunteers to help in the clean-up effort. www.urbanhomeworks.org
The City of Minneapolis has created a Minneapolis
Recovers: North Side Tornado page with valuable information on the government’s response, as well as advice for citizens.
Northside Community Response Team, a partnership of more than 30 community based organizations formed in response to the devastating effects of the May 22nd tornado has authorized the Northside Home Fund Tornado Relief Fund to accept donations to support emergency home repair. Through their door-to-door canvassing efforts, the Northside Community Response Team is encountering a significant percentage of uninsured homeowners who have been unable to stabilize and secure their property. Immediate dollars are needed to provide relief for uninsured homeowners to secure their buildings, weatherproof them from the elements, and restore electricity. This is a short-term, damage-control effort. These homes must be secured quickly in order to avoid displacing more families if the weather turns. The Northside Community Response Team has developed a coordinated strategy that will: 1.Provide immediate support for uninsured homeowners 2.Avoid further displacement of residents in North Minneapolis 3.Engage and mobilize local and minority contractors
MN 55411. Will have food assistance. Contact Jariland Spence. 612-522-3015 theprayercentermn@gmail.com . Saturday, August 28th hours: 11am to 3pm. Closed Sunday and Monday. Accepting donations of non-perishable food, diapers (newborn size), hygiene items, gift cards/gas cards, trash bags, toilet paper, paper towels.
Shiloh Temple is offering shelter for women with children
(A partnering church will house men). Shiloh is located on Broadway and N. Fremont. Contact # is 612-302-1463. Shiloh Temple will need people with vans and trucks to deliver food and other resources in the community. They will also need volunteers to distribute and serve donates items as residents come in to receive them. Call them to see need. 1201 West Broadway Avenue. 612-302-1463.
The Bridge for Youth as a resource for families and
youth. They are offering youth shelter between the ages of 10-17. Family reunification counseling and other resources available. Call 612-377-8800 to reach the crisis line. www.bridgeforyouth.org
Masjid An-Nur,
1729 Lyndale Avenue N., is accepting the following items for donations: general toiletries: toothbrushes, toothpaste, pampers (all sizes), wet wipes, deodorant, socks, underwear (all sizes for kids and adults), groceries, and clothing! You can drop items there between 2 and 5p, and use the parking lot entrance. Call: 612-521-1749
Twafiq Islamic Center on 2900 Lyndale Ave N. 2900
Lyndale Ave N. 612-588-1160. Call for update.
University of Minnesota Urban Research will be providing rides on a case-by-case basis. Please and Outreach-Engagement Center Oak Park Neighborhood Center--located at 1701 Emerge call them at 612-529-9267 to coordinate rides. Please have them (UROC) is assisting the relief and cleanup efforts that are Oak Park Ave N on the North Side--had a steady stream of people provide the following: Name, requested time of pick up, and pick up
now under way in the aftermath of devastating tornado damage by supporting North Side neighbors, friends, and community partners who are facing major upheaval. North Minneapolis residents without power, can charge cell phones, make phone calls, and use some computers for internet access at UROC, 2001 Plymouth Ave North. Call 612-626-UROC (8762) for details. You can use facilities between 8am and 5pm The UROC Broadband Access Project (BAP) Computer Labs also provide free internet access and training at the following North Minneapolis locations: Phyllis Wheatley: 1301 10th Ave N Minneapolis, MN 55411. Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM Patchwork Quilt: 3700 Bryant Avenue North Minneapolis, MN 55411. Hours: Monday – Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Internet access also available at: • University of Minnesota Physicians Broadway Family Medicine at Emerson & Broadway, which is open to provide healthcare to those in need. People can call 612-302-8200 for an appointment. Visitors and clients can re-charge cell phones and use public computer on site. • Emerge Community Development 1101 West Broadway Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55411 (Emerson/Broadway- 2nd Floor) 612-5299267 Contact is Paul .Hours: 9:00am- 5:00pm.
coming in to use electricity to plug in cell phones, laptops, and other electronics. Furthermore, we have been inundated with phone calls from individuals and businesses looking for resources and referrals. We have responded to this crisis as we always have with time, energy, resources, ingenuity, and community support. PUC has extended its hours at the Oak Park Neighborhood Center from 8am to 9pm until further notice. Oak Park has opened its doors and meeting rooms for people to meet with insurance adjusters and other contractors, and phones, fax, computers, and a copier have been made available to the public. We have also provided coolers and ice, and have made transportation available. Moreover, we have relied on our broad network of partnerships to refer community members to the resources they will need to recover from this terrible tragedy. Secondly, one PUC facility located at 1200 37th Ave N was hit by the tornado. Damage at the Camden facility ranges from broken windows to roof, water, and additional damages, causing PUC to cancel programs, and relocate our programmatic and executive staff to the Oak Park Neighborhood Center location. Recovering from this tragedy will take both time and resources. Current needs include: flashlights, clothes, water, batteries, ice, coolers, blankets, and of course, emergency financial assistance. For more information or to make a tax-deductible donation to assist in the recovery efforts, please call 612-377-7000 or visit www.puc-mn.org.
address.
HomeLine,
a tenant advocacy organization, has written an advice column (http://www.homelinemn.org/main/2011/05/ information-for-renters-affected-by-the-tornado) for renters affected by the tornado. Renters are advised to call Legal Aid at 612-332-1441 or Minneapolis Housing Services at 612-673-3003.
Animal Humane Society, 763-522-4325, will assist
with animal and pet situations. You can also visit their website for lost and found animals. Minneapolis Animal Care & Control (MACC) will provide food and shelter for displaced animals. Dial 311. Tornado victims who need temporary pet sheltering can receive up to five days of no-cost kenneling from MACC. Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/tornado.pets / mpls. tornado.pets@gmail.com The Pet Project will be handing out food/supplies from the gym at River of Life Lutheran Church 2200 Freemont Av N. on Mondays and Thursdays through the month of June from 10 am to 2 pm.
insightnews.com
AnderBel, LLC CONTACT: Robert Belton PHONE: 612-685-2881 FAX: 612-377-7337 CITY: Minneapolis TYPE OF BUSINESS: General construction, construction management, architectural services E-MAIL ADDRESS: robert@anderbelconstruction.com
Arrington Floor Covering, Inc. CONTACT: James Arrington PHONE: 612-356-0026 FAX: CITY: Minneapolis TYPE OF BUSINESS: Installation of soft floors carpetVCT- vinyl sheet goods stairthread wallbase E-MAIL ADDRESS: j2917arrington@gmail.com
Brick It Your Way, LLC CONTACT: Paul Hill PHONE: 612-423-7016 FAX: 612-423-7016 CITY: Minneapolis TYPE OF BUSINESS: Masonry, brick, block, stone, glass block, tuck-pointing, concrete steps, sidewalks, etc. E-MAIL ADDRESS: brickiturway@aol.com
Callpashay Contracting, Inc. CONTACT: Doris Ruiz PHONE: 612-328-7969 FAX: 612-729-5355 CITY: Minneapolis TYPE OF BUSINESS: Residential & commercial roofing, siding, windows, doors, gutters, stucco & concrete E-MAIL ADDRESS: concho72@live.com
D&J Steele Construction, Inc.
CONTACT: Donald Steele PHONE: 612-728-9909 FAX: 612-728-9961 CITY: Minneapolis TYPE OF BUSINESS: Construction E-MAIL ADDRESS: no.problem@dandjsteele.com
Falcon Group, The
CONTACT: James Frisco PHONE: 612-290-1059 FAX: 651-459-3273 CITY: Minneapolis TYPE OF BUSINESS: Telecom services, computer network hardware, fiber optic E-MAIL ADDRESS: jefjco@msn.com
Gill Construction, Inc. CONTACT: Bobby Gill PHONE: 612-703-7724 FAX: CITY: Minneapolis TYPE OF BUSINESS: Residential, remodeling, rough carpentry, finish carpentry, roofing, siding, painting, drywall & floor E-MAIL ADDRESS: gillconstruction@gmail.com
K-Star RCI Properties, LLC CONTACT: Kester Wubben PHONE: 612-226-8700 FAX: CITY: Minneapolis TYPE OF BUSINESS: Lawn care and landscaping service E-MAIL ADDRESS: kester.wubben@yahoo.com
Larkins Construction, LLC CONTACT: Demetrius Larkins
Insight News • June 13 - June 19, 2011 • Page 7
PHONE: 612-703-0156 FAX: 612-521-1791 CITY: Minneapolis TYPE OF BUSINESS: General contractor, building, remodeling, pavers, and retaining walls E-MAIL ADDRESS: demetrius.larkins@yahoo.com
Lett Construction, LLC CONTACT: Darrell Lett PHONE: 612-823-0351 FAX: 612-823-0351 CITY: Minneapolis TYPE OF BUSINESS: General Construction E-MAIL ADDRESS: neverlett08@hotmail.com
Macrete Construction Services, LLC CONTACT: Ericka Mackey PHONE: 612-377-2775 FAX: 612-377-2775 CITY: Minneapolis TYPE OF BUSINESS: Concrete construction E-MAIL ADDRESS: maccretemikemac@gmail.com
Mitchell Construction, Inc. CONTACT: Anderson Mitchell PHONE: 612-588-3112 FAX: 612-588-3134 CITY: Minneapolis TYPE OF BUSINESS: General Contractor-Drywall, Framing E-MAIL ADDRESS: am@mitchellconstructionmn.com
MN Best Enterprises, Inc. CONTACT: Kate Snyder PHONE: 763-502-2355 FAX: 612-294-3352 CITY: Minneapolis TYPE OF BUSINESS: Construction and maintenance E-MAIL ADDRESS: mnbest@mnbestinc.com
New Finish Remodeling & Construction, Inc. CONTACT: Tom Hall PHONE: 612-490-0331 FAX: 612-259-7025 CITY: Minneapolis TYPE OF BUSINESS: Construction - remodel or build E-MAIL ADDRESS: thallinc@live.com
New World Electric CONTACT: Joseph Christensen PHONE: 612-275-9487 FAX: CITY: Minneapolis TYPE OF BUSINESS: Electrical design and construction company E-MAIL ADDRESS: newworldelectric@gmail.com
Prism Production & General Services CONTACT: Sobirimabo Youngharry PHONE: 651-335-5046 FAX: 651-917-2013 CITY: Minneapolis TYPE OF BUSINESS: Janitorial services E-MAIL ADDRESS: ppgscontract@yahoo.com
Rivera Exteriors, Inc. CONTACT: Ralph Rivera PHONE: 612-876-2201 FAX: 612-729-5355 CITY: Minneapolis
TYPE OF BUSINESS: Residential and commercial roofing, siding, doors, windows, gutters, stucco, brick, framing E-MAIL ADDRESS: ralph_1975@hotmail.com
Romeo Maintenance Clinic CONTACT: Romeo Sinsh PHONE: 763-957-0801 FAX: 763-767-0232 CITY: Minneapolis TYPE OF BUSINESS: Janitorial service E-MAIL ADDRESS: romeojs@aol.com
Skk Architects, LLC CONTACT: Peter Kim PHONE: 612-208-7271 FAX: 763-381-5834 CITY: Minneapolis TYPE OF BUSINESS: Full architectural service, interior design, drafting service, sustainable design consulting E-MAIL ADDRESS: pkim@skkarchitects.com
Tri-Construction, Inc. CONTACT: Calvin Littlejohn PHONE: 612-529-5924 FAX: 612-529-5934 CITY: Minneapolis TYPE OF BUSINESS: Building Construction E-MAIL ADDRESS: calvin@tri-construction.com
Vera Construction, LLC CONTACT: Jenny Emmes PHONE: 612-522-0887 FAX: 612-522-6062 CITY: Minneapolis TYPE OF BUSINESS: Concrete, Masonry, Restor, Carpentry, Electrical, HVAC, Roof, Paint E-MAIL ADDRESS: veracoinc@yahoo.com
Vincent Brown Trucking and Construction, LLC CONTACT: Vincent Brown PHONE: 612-250-1239 FAX: 612-588-1699 CITY: Minneapolis TYPE OF BUSINESS: Construction, rolloff, hauling, landscaping, roofing E-MAIL ADDRESS: veeannvince1@comcast.net
Well Done LLC Cleaning Services CONTACT: Sierra Remus PHONE: 612-267-5409 FAX: CITY: Minneapolis TYPE OF BUSINESS: Pre construction and cleanups, landscaping, janitorial, painting, windows & snow removal E-MAIL ADDRESS: sierraremus@ymail.com
Xstream Plumbing, LLC CONTACT: Suzanne Boyer PHONE: 612-236-4981 FAX: CITY: Minneapolis TYPE OF BUSINESS: Plumbing installation, remodel, water heaters, plumbing appliances and service E-MAIL ADDRESS: suzanne@xstreamplumbing.com
Page 8 • June 13 - June 19, 2011 • Insight News
insightnews.com
LIFESTYLE Dale Bachman kicks off urban garden project at Oak Park Center A newly expanded garden at Oak Park Center in the Jordan neighborhood of Minneapolis’ Near Northside will be growing food, science lessons and summer jobs for youth, thanks in part to Dale Bachman, recipient of the University of Minnesota Outstanding Achievement Award. The garden expansion began as part of a ceremony on April 30 honoring Bachman, who opted out of the typical formal awards ceremony and requested supporting a community project instead. Labor and gardening materials are being donated by
Bachman and his wife, Ruth. The ceremony speakers included Tim Kenny, University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum education director; Karen Beamon, a graduate of the program and now one of the program leaders; and University President Robert Bruininks. The site is operated by the arboretum’s Urban Gardening initiative, in which youth in the community maintain gardens as part of a program to teach urban agriculture and science, and to engage teens and young adults in a summer employment program. Photographer
Tim Kenny, Arboretum education director; Karen Beamon, urban gardening alumnus and program leader; Dale Bachman; Ed Schneider, director of the Arboretum. The garden expansion will mark the third year that Oak Park has been a site for the arboretum’s Urban Garden program. For 23 years, the Urban Garden initiative has provided children from diverse economic and cultural backgrounds an opportunity to forge connections with nature and
experience science in meaningful ways. Through the support of community and philanthropic partners, the initiative has evolved to meet community needs, including out-of-school time outreach, youth employment and building higher education aspirations.
“In addition to celebrating the personal and professional
achievements of Dale Bachman, we also want to recognize his volunteer leadership at the university and within the broader community,” said University of Minnesota President Robert Bruininks. “His decision to pay tribute to the arboretum’s Urban Gardening program is an example of his extraordinary generosity and commitment, and we are grateful for his contributions.” “The Urban Garden program has blossomed under the guidance of Tim Kenny in engaging youth to be curious about plants in their daily lives as well as preparing young adults to be leaders,” said Edward Schneider, director of the arboretum. “We are appreciative of Bachman’s support to expand the program further.”
GARDEN TURN TO 9
insightnews.com
Insight News • June 13 - June 19, 2011 • Page 9
COMMENTARY The argument against double standards in education By Benjamin Todd Jealous, NAACP President and CEO New York City has become the latest battleground in the national fight for education equality. In some schools, hallways serve as a stark dividing line. Classrooms with peeling paint and insufficient resources sit on one side, while new computers, smartboards and up-to-date textbooks line the other. One group of students is taught in hallways and cramped basements, while others under the same roof make use of fully functional classrooms. New York City has increasingly resorted to co-
Comcast From 1 Contributions from individuals and local businesses are helping the organization to meet its goals. Almost $1 million has been raised so far, said Sandra Vargas, Minneapolis Foundation president. The Northside Home Fund will focus on long-term funding to help rebuild clusters of homes in neighborhoods already hit hard by foreclosures and neglect during the recent economic downturn. For these North Minneapolis neighborhoods,
Garden From 8 Other urban gardening sites include the south Minneapolis
Markets From 4 the industry will have difficulty keeping pace if it does not act now.
Northside From 1 Many have vowed to participate for three years to ensure needs are met. “Nothing of this magnitude has ever happened in North Minneapolis,” said Louis King, president and CEO of Summit Academy OIC and member of the core team leading this effort. “We have gotten through the initial emergency phase and now we are in the business of rebuilding and ensuring there is continuity of care for residents who need it.” “Our sole purpose is to respond to the needs of North Minneapolis. Our commitment is to stay with this work until the last nail is driven in the last home that needs repair for damage suffered in the tornado,” said King. Saying the number of agencies
locating charter schools inside existing public school buildings as way to cut costs. When handled improperly, co-location can lead to visible disparities, division and tension among students. In many instances, traditional students are forced into shorter playground periods than their charter school counterparts, or served lunch at 10 am so that charter students can eat at noon. The inequity is glaring, and it is certainly not lost on the students themselves. Throughout our history, the NAACP has fought for equal educational opportunities for all Americans. When we saw inequality in school districts from Los Angeles, California to Topeka, Kansas, we never hesitated to fight for what was
right. Today, the fight continues in the nation’s largest school district. The struggle of black parents to create a better life for their children is one we cherish. We know that a good education is one of the most effective pathways out of poverty. There is no greater anguish for a parent than to live in a community where there are often little to no choices of a quality school. As a father, I personally know the yearning to give my daughter the best education possible. This is what makes us responsible, loving parents. Our commitment is to continue the historic fight for a quality education for all, but even as we wage that important effort, we support parents who are able to find a good education
for their child – whether at a traditional or charter public school. Last month, after a year of attempts to negotiate with the New York City Department of Education to correct these inequalities after they lost to us in court, the NAACP was forced to go to court again to compel them to comply with state law. Our return to court has triggered a smear campaign against the NAACP. In recent days we have faced a coordinated media attack designed to distort the conversation and inaccurately cast us as opponents of charter schools, which we are not. Unable to dispute the facts of the case, they’ve chosen to cast aspersions on the NAACP, to question our motivations, and
to sling mud at our legacy. This is a tactic meant to silence the NAACP, but we will not be silenced. The NAACP will always work for the day when all students can access highquality public education. We will not tolerate the neglect of the hundreds of thousands of families depending on traditional public schools, nor will we stand by as public schools are illegally closed, communities are ignored in defiance of the law and student success is left to chance. And we will never be silenced by attacks on our reputation. As the largest public school system in the United States, New York City is often viewed as a trend-setter on issues of education. Co-location schemes
are being considered in other states and counties nationwide, from Florida to Texas. The city is acting irresponsibly by allowing blatant inequality and lax enforcement of the law. We are determined to stand against this bad precedent before it spreads to other school systems. The NAACP has always believed that educating children in a separate and unequal system that provides a quality education to the lucky few at the expense of the many is the wrong kind of education. We will continue to fight, as we always have, for equal opportunity for all.
damage caused by the May 22 tornado is a heartbreaking setback; however, it is also an opportunity for the community to redouble its support for building programs currently underway. Vargas said the Foundation embraces the priority expressed by community based organizations that the economics and business of relief, recover and restoration efforts benefit Northside businesses, agencies and residents. Comcast and its local employees worked around the clock to restore communication services to impacted customers across Minneapolis after the storm. Nationwide, Comcast
has invested millions of dollars for infrastructure repair and replacement to restore and maintain services in areas hardest hit by recent tragic storms. In addition to the cash and in-kind contributions, Comcast employees are participating in clean-up, relief and rebuilding efforts throughout the city, as well as donating critical household supplies to those in need. Comcast has a strong, on-going presence in and commitment to the North Minneapolis community through its partnership with organizations, including: Comcast’s Regional Technical Training Facility in North Minneapolis: Current and
new Comcast employees enroll in training at the company’s marquee educational center. West Broadway Business Association – Comcast is an active member of the area association. Fundamentals of Leadership program: Comcast is currently partnering with the Salvation Army to head up a collection drive for people affected by the recent devastating tornadoes in North Minneapolis. Minneapolis Urban League: Urban League Academy Elementary School grants: Through the Comcast Foundation, the company donates $20,000 each year to Urban League Academy
to support students who need supplemental help to achieve in school. Most students are African American from low-income families that live in the federally designated Empowerment Zone neighborhoods in North Minneapolis. Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Greater Twin Cities and KIPP: Stand Academy of North Minneapolis: Comcast employees regularly mentor fifth- and sixth-graders in order for them to achieve academically and succeed as adults in the ongoing Beyond School Walls program. Comcast Cares Day: Each year Comcast employees volunteer their time to assist area
nonprofits with various indoor and outdoor projects. Some of the North Minneapolis nonprofits have included Aeon (Ripley Gardens), Minneapolis Urban League’s Academy Elementary, CommonBond and Salvation Army. “We have more than 1,800 employees in the Twin Cities and, like other companies, we are fortunate to have people who demonstrate a strong commitment to volunteering out of a sense of caring for those in need,” said Schubert. “We are glad to support our employees, our customers and the greater community with financial contributions as well as volunteer and in-kind efforts.”
Phillips, Prospect Park and Eliot Park neighborhoods. The Near Northside’s Jordan neighborhood, where Oak Park Center is located, has seen a growth of 33 percent in school-age youth. Revitalizing the “urban garden” at Oak Park Center
will benefit the students with new plant science learning and experience, help promote urban agriculture and nutritious eating and add edible and ornamental greenery to the city landscape for all to enjoy.
The University of Minnesota’s Outstanding Achievement Award recognizes graduates who have attained unusual distinction in their chosen profession and demonstrated achievement and leadership on a community,
state, national or international level. Bachman, who earned a bachelor’s degree in plant and soil science in 1972, is being recognized for his role in building Bachman’s, the family business founded by his great-grandfather
in 1885. He has also been an active volunteer leader in a variety of state and national horticultural organizations and has led the industry in taking steps to increase environmentally-sound practices.
Minority leadership succession planning has not been a priority. As highly recognized and accomplished minority leaders retire, there is not enough diverse talent in the organization to replace them. Talent development is
multicultural in nature. This will only increase over time, yet few companies have Black, Asian, or Latino leadership development programs in place. Attraction and retention of multicultural talent is an ongoing need, yet few companies have a
“pipeline” for delivering that talent. These challenges can be addressed by companies aggressively targeting diverse and multicultural markets, businesses, and leadership. People of color know how to
reach and talk to other people of color. Black leaders know the needs of Black communities. Latinos know where to go for Latino leadership. Asians communities know what Asian business need to grow. All leaders, but especially
White leaders, need to understand and embrace this concept if they want their companies to prosper in a multicultural world. The U.S. is multicultural. It’s time to invite all cultures to the dinner table of opportunity.
and organizations was too large to praise individually, King called the community response heroic, compassionate, expansive and consistent. He said public officials, including the council members from Ward 3, Ward 4 and Ward 5 deserve particular ovation, as do other legislative and county officials, and Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak, for rallying public and community resources and volunteerism to respond to the crisis. King said the entire region responded, and encouraged all to remain committed to Northside’s restoration. “Don’t forget about our community,” he said addressing the region via television news, “because this is not a sprint, this is a marathon.” Chad Schwitters, executive director of Urban Homeworks, agreed. “Our mission is to understand the catastrophe and the community.
We are committed to keeping the economics of the response, repair and restoration localized in ways that utilize and support Northside businesses, agencies, and residents,” Schwitters said. Urban Homeworks, a community development organization that rebuilds homes and is based in North Minneapolis, was instrumental in coordinating the initial debris cleanup on behalf of the City of Minneapolis. Urban Homeworks estimates that 3,000 volunteers conducted debris assessments and cleanup at more than 3,500 homes in North Minneapolis during the first week after the tornado. “The grassroots convergence of leaders from the faith community and neighborhood organizations has been an amazing thing to be a part of,” said Schwitters, a member of the core team leading the effort. “We are a team of many, working together
to understand and meet the needs of the people while making sure the economic exchange in this recovery stays and benefits the people and businesses of North Minneapolis.” “This collaboration is unique and exciting. Yes, there are ups and downs when it comes to mobilizing people and resources. But we have very positive momentum and a unified approach guiding our work. The Northside Community Response Team (NCRT) plans to assist individuals in several key areas including housing, human needs, employment and business revitalization, as well as fund raising to support the efforts. Many tasks have already taken place including developing and providing a list of approved contractors from the area that can offer assistance to homeowners, landlords, renters and business owners.
NCRT has vowed to work to ensure the money that is allocated to the rebuilding effort benefits the area. “We plan to utilize businesses in our community as well as local assets including faith-based organizations,” King said. “We can’t predict the future, but we can stand up and act responsibly, and ask our neighbors and friends to
join us in this venture.” In addition to King and Schwitters, the following individuals are part of the core NCRT team: Scott Gray, president of Minneapolis Urban League; Sondra Samuels, chief executive officer of Northside Achievement Zone; and Rev. Richard Coleman, executive director of the Sanctuary CDC.
Benjamin Todd Jealous is President and CEO of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.
Page 10 • June 13, - June 19, 2011 • Insight News
Calendar Send Community Calendar information to us by: email, andrew@insightnews. com, by fax: 612-588-2031, by phone: (612) 588-1313 or by mail: 1815 Bryant Ave. N. Minneapolis, MN 55411, Attn: Andrew Notsch. Free or low cost events preferred.
Events 15th Annual Reggae on the River Boat Ride Fundraiser - June 18 Benefit for Scholarships. Jamaica Minnesota Organization 15th Annual Reggae on the River Boat Ride Fundraiser, Sat. June 18 - Boarding 9:00 p.m. (rain or shine) at Harriet Island. Music: Lynval Jackson and Wain McFarlane & Ipso Facto Band. DJ Services donated by Ambassador One Sound. Contributions - $30 Advance $35 at the Boat. (Covers: Boarding fee, entertainment & door prizes.) Call JMO hotline 612.481.4306 for more info or visit www.orgsites.com/mn/jmo
insightnews.com
PHONE: 612.588.1313
October 9th. @ Powderhorn Park, near the stage. Urban Summer Academy - June-July Are you looking for a safe, affordable summer program for your child? Try the Park Avenue Urban Summer Academy. This is a fun and challenging academic enrichment program for age 4 - High School. Lunch provided, scholarships available, schedules convenient for working parents. Vacation Bible School - June 13-17. Academic Day Camps - June 20 - July 29. www.payfs. org to learn more and to register online. Resources for Men - June 7 Feat. VJ Thomas of MADDADS and Clarence Jones, Southside Community Health Clinics, Fathers Program. Tue. June 7, 7-8:30am at Park Ave. United Methodist Church 3400 Park Ave. Mpls. Whittier Neighborhood Theatre in the Park Series - June 11 The Theatre in the Park series is
FAX: 612.588.2031
Minneapolis Police Band - July 14, 7pm - Whittier Park 26th St and Grand Ave. Improv performance by Just Add Water - Aug. 4, 7pm - Washburn Fair Oaks Park 24th St & 3rd Ave.
June 21st, from 6-7:30pm at Downey Side Minnesota, 450 N. Syndicate St., St. Paul. Pre-registration required. To register, email stpaulmn@downeyside. org or call 651-228-0117.
Special Education: What Do I Need to Know - June 14 Free workshop for parents of children with disabilities. This workshop will be presented in Spanish. It is on Tue., June 14, 10-11:30am, in the Activity Building of Church of the Assumption, 305 E. 77th St., Richfield, MN. Advance registration is requested. To register for the workshop, call PACER at 952-8389000.
Practical Tips for Working Effectively with Culturally Diverse Families of Young Children - June 23 A free workshop for early childhood professionals. It is on Thursday, June 23, 2011, from 9 to 11:30 a.m., at PACER Center, 8161 Normandale Blvd., Bloomington, Minn. Advance registration is requested. To register for the workshop, call PACER at 952-8389000.
Readings by Writers - June 15 Saint Paul Poet Laureate, Carol Connolly, hosts Readings by Writers. Wed. June 15, Bloomsday Eve, 7:30pm performance. @ University Club Saint Paul 420 Summit Ave. St Paul.
21st Annual Antiquarian and Rare Book Show - June 24-25 For the 21st time since 1990, book dealers from around the country will gather for the Annual Twin Cities Antiquarian Book Fair. The event will be held Fri.– Sat., June 24–25, at the Progress Building, MN State Fair Grounds, 1621 Randall Avenue, St. Paul. Hours are 5–9 pm on Fri. and 10am–4pm on Sat.
African American Author Fair - June 16 A unique opportunity to meet multiple authors, learn about their work, and purchase their books. Come support African American writers and writing at Magers & Quinn. Thur. June 16 5:308:30pm 3038 Hennepin Ave S, Mpls; 612/822-4611. The 5th United Youth 4 Christ Conference - June 16-19 Transforming the next generation one youth at a time. At Trinity Lutheran Congregation Augsburg College 211 Riverside Ave. S. Mpls, MN. For times and more info: unitedyouth4christ.org
Major Taylor Bicycling Club
Suluki Fardan
Juneteenth Day Family Ride Major Taylor Bicycling Club (MTBC) of Minnesota is holding a Juneteenth Day Family Ride for the community. MTBCM was not awarded the grant to create and operate a North Minneapolis Bike/Walk Center, but decided to support bicycling in other ways, according to Anthony Taylor, a MTBCMN spokesperson. “The Club is committed to increasing the access and equity in bicycling. The Juneteenth Family Day Ride (June 18, 9:00am at the Upper Mississippi Regional Park) is a direct offshoot of this effort. Other events this summer will include The North Side Glide (July 9 at 9:00am at Northpoint Health and Wellness Center, 1313 Penn Ave N), and a discussion about “the greatest American athletic story ever forgotten” with Jim Fitzpatrick, author of “Major Taylor in Australia” (June 16 at 6:00pm at Center for Families, 3333 N 4th St.). The Ride and Slide events include free bike checks and tune-ups; the Discussion is free and will include refreshments.” Taylor said. For more information, please contact Anthony Taylor, 612-709-9138.
Really Really Free Market - June-Oct It’s like a swap meet, a potluck, and a block party all rolled into one! Bring stuff you want to share, take whatever you need. Everyone has old stuff lying around, taking up space, and never getting used. Why not share it with someone? 2pm, on the 2nd or 3rd Sunday of every month June 12th, July 10th, August 14th, September 18th,
coming back once again this summer! The three outdoor performances are free and all are welcome to attend. Bring blankets or lawn chairs for your comfort and enjoy a summer evening in your neighborhood park. Julius Caesar, performed by the Cromulent Shakespeare Company - Sat. June 11, 7pm - Washburn Fair Oaks Park 3rd Ave. & 24th St. E. Performance by the
EMAIL: andrew@insightnews.com
Help Sabathani to win a dream building makeover - Thru June 17 Help Sabathani win $50,000 in building renovations through the Maxwell House Drops of Good campaign by voting once a day every day from now until June 17th. http://www.kraftbrands.com/ maxwellhousecoffee/drops-of-good/ Pages/sabathani-community-center. aspx Twin Cities Anti Violence Coalition Motorcycle Ride - June 18 Fundraising motorcycle ride to St. Cloud in an effort to assist with fund raising for Twin Cities Anti Violence Coalition. Sat. June 18 at Brookdale Mall, 1108 Brookdale Brooklyn Center, MN 55430. Registration: 9:30-11:30am. Ride starts at noon in the southeast parking lot. $15 donation per bike. Step Up for Kids! - Children’s Advocacy Center Walk - June 19 Walk with us as we increase public awareness about the realities of child abuse that thousands of children face every day and how Children’s Advocacy Centers make a difference in these children’s lives. Sun. June 19. Check in: 7:30am. At: Minnesota State Capitol at 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, St. Paul. For more information and to register: visit http://walk4kids. eventbrite.com. Early Childhood Development and Strategies to Support Early Learning Skills - June 20 A free workshop for parents of children
Kathy Hardy
mnsinfonia.org
Sinfonia’s Magic of Music Families are invited to join the Minnesota Sinfonia in experiencing great favorites from the movies, the classics and everything in between - all chosen especially for children. Come listen to the story of Peter and the Wolf narrated by singer and actress Kathleen Hardy. The concert will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 21 at John A. Johnson Elementary School at 740 York Ave, St. Paul, 55106. Admission as always is free. Audience members should arrive early—all concerts are first-come, first-seated. Additional Minnesota Sinfonia concert information is available at 612871-1701 or www.mnsinfonia.org.
from birth to age 5 with developmental delays or disabilities. It is on Monday, June 20, 2011, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at PACER Center, 8161 Normandale Blvd., Bloomington, Minn. Advance registration is requested. To register, call PACER at 952-8389000. North High School Summer Camp June 20-Aug 5 The camp gives students in grades 5 – 8 and incoming freshman at North the opportunity to participate in activities offered in high school, which include badminton, baseball, basketball, bowling, cheerleading, cross-country running and skiing, dance, football, golf, show choir, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track and field, volleyball and wrestling. At North High School 1500 James Ave. N. Mpls, MN. Families may enroll students by calling North High School at 612.668.1700. Camp registration runs through June 20, which is the first day of camp. Pre Adoption Free Information Session for Minnesota’s Waiting Children - June 21 Downey Side…families for youth, invites community members to attend a FREE information session regarding adoption and Minnesota’s Waiting Children. Downey Side’s next information session will be Tuesday,
Dancing for Safe Water Everywhere - June 25 Hamline University School of Education’s Global Environmental Education invites the public to Solstice River dance performance, an annual event that it collaborates with Global Water Dances on each year. @ Stone Arch Bridge in downtown Mpls on June 5, 5pm. Twin Cities World Refugee Day June 25 The 2011 Twin Cities World Refugee Day Celebration will include entertainment, a resource fair, and much more! Sat. June 25, Minnehaha Park 12-6pm. For more information about the event and refugees worldwide, visit www.tcworldrefugeeday.org. Red Ribbon Ride - July 14-17, 4-day, nearly 300-mile charity bike ride for HIV/AIDS in Minnesota. The Ride starts at the Mall of America, travels to overnight stops in Lake City, Rochester and Northfield and ends at the State Capitol. Supported by an all-volunteer crew. Rider and crew registration fee is $75.00. Riders are required to raise $1,500.00; Crew are encouraged to raise $250.00 but not required. Eight Minnesota AIDS service organizations benefit: African American AIDS Task Force, The Aliveness Project, Claire Housing, Hope House of St. Croix Valley, Minnesota AIDS Project, One Heartland, Park House and Rural AIDS Action Network. Visit www. redribbonride.org for more information. Sapphire reads from her novel The Kid - July 15 A story of body and spirit, rooted in the hungers of flesh and of the soul, The Kid brings us deep into the interior life of Abdul Jones. 7:30pm, Fri., July 15, at Magers & Quinn Booksellers (3038 Hennepin Ave S, Minneapolis; 612/822-4611).
Coffee Break it 30. *Often involves a basket 35. Frees 37. ____ of March 39. Vital life, in Sanskrit 40. ____ mater 41. Empower 43. Yemen port 44. Spontaneous loss of consciousness 46. In bed 47. Spanish surrealist Juan (1893-1983) 48. Arctic plain 50. Ear-related 52. *They did it at the BBQ 53. Type of mountain goat 55. Sin over tan 57. *Played with mallets 61. Heavyset 64. *Summer sitcom, usually 65. Step on it 67. Same as vial 69. Unlace 70. Word between “dogs” 71. Pitchers 72. Enthusiastic enjoyment 73. DNA transmitter 74. Often goes with “ranted”
9. Moore in “Moonraker” 10. Kent State state 11. Average 12. Palm reader, e.g. 15. Cats’ favorite herb 20. Suggestive of the supernatural 22. *Located behind the plate 24. Strongbox 25. Plane or boat 26. Pilaff 27. Short for administrator 29. Dame ____, Australian celeb 31. Study all at once 32. Gymnast Comaneci 33. Unable to move 34. *Water ride 36. *Used to make castles 38. Lard cousin 42. Authoritative proclamation 45. Christian Trinity, e.g. 49. Famous for being honest 51. Barrel maker 54. Formerly used as anesthetic 56. Neutral middle vowel 57. Actress Penelope 14. Fan’s discontent DOWN 58. ____ Descartes S T A T E P O I N T 15. Type of salmon 1. Of a female 59. Scraps of meal CROSSWORD 16. It has blips 2. Having wings 60. Give up 17. aka Common Market 3. Do over 61. Stiff hair THEME: SUMMER FUN 18. Liquorice flavor 4. Perform in a play 62. Capital of Ukraine 19. NASA flier 5. *Farmer’s ______ 63. Ready and eager ACROSS 21. *Type of pool 6. Lend a hand 66. “Atonement” author 1. Group of wives? 23. *Ball holder 7. ___ vs. Wade McEwan 6. Parabola, e.g. 24. Wish harm upon 8. *Add this when making 68. Acid 9. Designer Hugo 25. Tax preparer Answers 13. Helen in Moscow 28. *Tire swing hangs from chocolate ice cream
o Qu
te
w e ek e h t of
“Just play. Have fun. Enjoy the game.” — Michael Jordan on page e 11
insightnews.com
Insight News • June 13 - June 19, 2011 • Page 11
HEALTH Hunger-Free Minnesota launches new program to fight hunger Hunger-Free Minnesota launched a three-year initiative recently with sights set on sustainably adding 100 million meals annually for hungry adults and children in the state. The organization was joined by corporations and community partners from across Minnesota that have pledged support. Hunger-Free Minnesota leaves the starting block with $3 million in financial support, a significant start toward the $20 million needed for phase one of the three-year target. The Hunger-Free Minnesota plan outlines specific, highimpact initiatives that will expand existing programs and increase efficiencies within the emergency food system, the Minnesota Food Support Program and Child Nutrition Programs. Its success relies on
a statewide network of diverse leaders to fight hunger locally and collaboratively. Hunger in Minnesota has doubled in the last five years, affecting people in all parts of the state – urban, suburban and rural. One in 10 Minnesotans runs out of food resources before the end of every month, missing an average of 10 meals every 30 days. The impact of hunger reaches beyond those who are missing meals. Hunger-associated costs total more than $1.2 billion annually in Minnesota. “Hunger-Free Minnesota is generating new dollars to help address issues of hunger throughout the state,” said Ellie Lucas, chief campaign officer, Hunger-Free Minnesota. “Our plan focuses on enhancing existing programs and
executing innovative solutions to close the gap in missed meals. The starting line and goals are clearly defined, and the initiatives measurable. We’re excited to announce that we’ve reached the first financial milestone toward our ultimate goal of $20 million to support the first phase of this program.” The formation of HungerFree Minnesota grew from efforts to more clearly define the scope of hunger in the state. Five targeted studies (http://www.hungerfreemn.org/ hunger-in-mn/hunger-facts) conducted between 2008 and 2011 helped to quantify the need for improved resources, the economic impact of hunger, barriers to access and the articulation of an end-goal. With initial support from Cargill and General Mills, Hunger-
Free Minnesota worked with The Boston Consulting Group to develop an action plan that analyzed various strategies and determined those with potential for the greatest impact. Founding partner Second Harvest Heartland has been behind the effort from the beginning. “Hunger-Free Minnesota is approaching the issue of hunger in a way that hasn’t been done before,” said Rob Zeaske, executive director, Second Harvest Heartland. “There is a lot of excitement about this, not just within our own state, but nationally. Other states recognize the unique and practical approach that HungerFree Minnesota is taking, and see the potential to replicate success in their states.” Founding partners include all six Feeding America Food
Banks in Minnesota (Channel One Food Bank in Rochester, Minn.; Great Plains Food Bank in Fargo, N.D.; North Country Food Bank in Crookston, Minn.; Second Harvest North Central Food Bank in Grand Rapids, Minn.; Second Harvest Northern Lakes Food Bank in Duluth, Minn.; and Second Harvest Heartland in St. Paul, Minn.), Hunger Solutions Minnesota and the Greater Twin Cities United Way. Corporate partners that have committed their support to date include some of Minnesota’s most prominent, community-oriented corporations, including Cargill, General Mills, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, Hormel Foods and a pledge to invest from the Greater Twin Cities United Way. “Hunger is a complex
problem that cannot be solved by one entity alone,” said Emery Koenig, senior vice president, Cargill. “Public-private partnerships can be a powerful force. As a food company, Cargill has an important role in fighting hunger in our communities around the world, including right here in Minnesota. We’re proud to support this unprecedented statewide effort.” Hunger-Free Minnesota is a statewide initiative to fight hunger in our communities. It unites a coalition of corporations and community hunger-relief partners in a fight against the devastating and debilitating effects of hunger. For more information or to join the coalition for a HungerFree Minnesota, go to www. hungerfreemn.org.
Mental Health America names Senator Al Franken Legislator of the Year Mental Health America honored Sen. Al Franken (D-Minn.) with its Legislator of the Year Award for his leadership on mental health issues in Congress. The award was presented on Thursday, June 9 at the Opening Night Reception of Mental Health America’s 2011 Annual Conference at the Hyatt Regency on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. “Senator Franken in his short tenure in Congress has emerged as a mental health champion in
Senator Al Franken (D-MN)
Solutions From 10
SUMMER FUN
Congress, cementing his state’s deep commitment to these issues,” said David Shern, Ph.D., president and CEO of Mental Health America. “We applaud his leadership and commitment to serving the needs of his constituents and millions of Americans living with mental health conditions.” As a member of the Judiciary and the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committees, Sen. Franken has played a critical role in shaping mental health
policy. In particular, he has led numerous efforts to have the Senate go on record in recommending to the Administration that they issue regulations to the Paul Wellstone and Pete Domenici Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act that reflect the intent of Congress. “I’m proud to follow in the footsteps of a giant, my friend and predecessor Paul Wellstone, on behalf of Americans who
suffer from mental health issues and addiction,” said Sen. Franken. “These problems are close to my heart and, while we’ve made a lot of progress on them in recent years, it’s important that we continue our efforts and fully implement the Paul Wellstone and Pete Domenici Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act.” Sen. Franken also won passage of legislation that creates a pilot program to pair service dogs to veterans coping with
the physical and psychological tolls of war. Service dogs help reduce depression, and help ward off panic attacks. He has also worked to address the problem of bullying in schools, introducing the Student NonDiscrimination Act, which would provide lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender youth with the same kind of rights that are extended to students based on race, religion, country of national origin, and language.
Beauchamp
of man and I’m not ashamed to admit I have room to do better.
From 5
KW: If you could have one wish instantly granted, what would that be for? KB: That I might become successful enough doing this work to be able to fully take care of my parents who have sacrificed so much for me and my career.
being able to focus on my own personal life. Since I’ve been doing this work – I’ve been in and out of relationships and haven’t been able to spend enough quality time with family. I’m the blame for that. I’m married to my work but I know that in time, the Creator will open a door for me to finally focus on myself.
with a steady pay check and that’s my reality. But I have learned that prayer, meditation and frequently speaking to my mother helps me to stay focused and on the right path.
had time to read any books for pleasure but the last book I’ve read was Investigative Discourse Analysis by Don Rabon. http://www. amazon.com/exec/obidos/ ASIN/0890895694/ref=nosim/ thslfofire-20 It teaches interviewing and interrogation techniques which come in very handy with the work that I do. KW: The music maven Heather Covington question: What are you listening to on your iPod? KB: People say I have an old soul. I love to listen to Sam Cooke and Curtis Mayfield for inspiration, and to Kanye West and Southern Hip-Hop to get my blood pumping before I go out to investigate murders. I guess it’s my way of keeping in touch with both the past and the present. KW: What is your favorite dish to cook? KB: Well, I’m from Louisiana, so I will have to say I’m known for cooking great Gumbo. KW: The Uduak Oduok question: Who is your favorite clothes designer? KB: At this point in my life, I wear many labels that help me look my best, but my favorite would have to be Gucci. KW: When you look in the mirror, what do you see? KB: When I look in the mirror, I see a man with a lot of potential to change minds and inspire, but not enough time. I’m still searching for higher knowledge
KW: The Ling-Ju Yen question: What is your earliest childhood memory? KB: My earliest childhood memory, which I speak about often, is when I first saw the photograph of Emmett Till at age 10 in Jet Magazine. I can honestly tell you, if it wasn’t for the murder of Emmett Till and seeing that photograph, I would not be a filmmaker today. KW: The Nancy Lovell Question: Why do you love doing what you do? KB: I love doing this work, because I’ve seen in my lifetime the fruits of my labor. My biggest accomplishments was the production of my first film, “The Untold Story of Emmett Louis Till” which took me nine years to produce, and getting his half-century old murder case reopened in 2004. It’s rewarding to know that I have the power to alter history and to undo some of the wrongs of our past by using the powerful medium of filmmaking. It is truly a blessing to receive emails and letters of encouragement almost daily regarding my work letting me know that I’m impacting lives and inspiring others. KW: The Zane Question: Do you have any regrets? KB: My only regret is not
KW: The Dulé Hill question. Do you think that the success you’ve achieved in your career is because of you, because of a higher power, or because of a mixture of both? KB: I would have to say that my success is a mixture of both but the majority is driven by my faith and a higher power. I realized that early on when I discovered that the work that I do is my calling in life. I’m guided by the spirit of our ancestors and I never fight that spiritual connection. KW: What has been the biggest obstacle you have had to overcome? KB: The biggest obstacle that I had to overcome is doubting myself and hesitating to follow my gut instinct. There’s so much negative energy at times when you are trying to do good that it’s hard to become motivated to move forward. KW: The Flex Alexander question: How do you get through the tough times? KB: It’s still a learning process for me. Being that I am a selfmade indie filmmaker that didn’t have any training, I continue to look for ways to reinvent myself to make a living. Civil Rights Activists will tell you that doing this type of work does not come
KW: The Rudy Lewis question: Who’s at the top of your hero list? KB: My parent’s would have to be first, because they instilled in me the value of speaking for those who can no longer speak for themselves, for the young and the old and those who have been affected by injustice. Secondly, without a shadow of a doubt would be the mother of Emmett Till, the late Mamie Till- Mobley who I worked with for 8-years until she passed away in 2003. She was the most influential person I every met and she continues to have a major influence on my life. The remarkable courage and dedication she had from the moment of Emmett’s murder until the day she passed away will forever be a part of my psyche. KW: The Dr. Cornel West question: What price are you willing to pay for a cause that is bigger than your own self interest? KB: I’m paying that price now, I was 23-years old when I started working on my first film that focused on the murder of Emmett Till and I’m 39-years old now still producing the same type of work. At times I feel that I’m running with the last of the dinosaurs, but I must push on because this mission is a much bigger cause than my own. Besides, the spirit in me won’t allow me to stop. KW: What advice do you have for anyone who wants to follow in your footsteps? KB: I will have to say follow your passion and learn perseverance. Fighting social injustice is a full time job which has many ups and downs. To be successful in your quest you must be persistent and believe in yourself no matter what people tell you. I’m a true testament of what one person can do to spark change and I know I won’t be the last. KW: The Tavis Smiley question: How do you want to be remembered? What do you want your legacy to be, and where are you in relation to that at this point in your life? KB: I want people to remember me as someone who was dedicated to the cause and who was able to become a ‘freedom conductor,’ sparking change in his own way - a true example of the power that one holds, but understanding that there is still much to be done. KW: Thanks again for another great interview, Keith, and best of luck with Injustice Files. KB: Thank you, Mr. Williams for your time and the opportunity.
Page 12 • June 13 - June 19, 2011 • Insight News
insightnews.com