Bedlam Theatre and Mixed Blood Theatre presents
MORE ON PAGE 5 VOCREnsemble
Ku soo Dhawaada Xaafadeena
INSIGHT NEWS July 4 - July 10, 2011 • MN Metro Vol. 37 No. 27 • The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • www.insightnews.com
The messengers
MillerCoors honors the nation’s Black press in 21st Annual Journalism Competition MillerCoors and the National Newspapers Publishers Association (NNPA) recently announced the winners of the 21st annual MillerCoors A. Philip Randolph Messenger Awards. This year’s Awards, hosted June 23rd in Chicago at the Drake Hotel, honored the men and women of the nation’s Black press and the important
role they play in serving as the “messengers of the AfricanAmerican community.” The award is named in honor of the late A. Philip Randolph, who inspired social consciousness. His mission lives on through these committed members of the Fourth Estate. This year’s competition acknowledged
exemplary journalism in categories including Breaking News, Commentary, Economic Empowerment, Feature and Sustainability. The 2011 award winners were: Kathy Chaney, The Chicago Defender; David L. Horne, Our Weekly; Christian Morrow, The New Pittsburgh Courier; David
for MillerCoors; (middle, from left) Jennifer FrenchParker, Crossroads News; Kathy Chaney, The Chicago Defender; Al Thomas, The Philadelphia Tribune; Rod Doss, The New Pittsburgh Courier; (front row) Larry Waters, vice president of multicultural relations for MillerCoors, Bobbie
Stokes, The Atlanta Inquirer and Wendell Hutson, The Chicago Defender. Pictured above (second row, from left) are; Natalie Cole, Our Weekly; Wendell Hutson, The Chicago Defender; David Miller, Our Weekly, Moses Brewer, director of multicultural relations, African-American segment
Dorefoster, The Skanner; Clyde Jiles, The Houston Defender; Irv Randolph, The Philadelphia Tribune; and John B. Smith, The Atlanta Inquirer. The MillerCoors APR Messenger Awards bestowed this year’s honorees trophies, and a top monetary award of $5,000 each for a total prize pool of $25,000.
PHOTO © 2011 BY CLIFTON HENRI/COURTESY FLOWERS COMMUNICATIONS GROUP
Summit Academy targets women for green construction trades By Lydia Schwartz Contributing Writer Summit Academy OIC (SAOIC) is working to change the face of the construction industry. Typically seen as a maledominated field, more women are showing an interest in participating in Minnesota’s construction industry as it shifts towards an environmental focus. Programs that educate individuals from disadvantaged communities serve to improve neighborhoods through economic and environmental development. SAOIC, a non-profit education and vocational training center, helps individuals and families from the most economic disparate communities to enter the economic mainstream. The school prepares and empowers adults residing in the most economically depressed neighborhoods in developing their ability to become educated, employed, and contributing members of their community. They support the development of self-sufficiency in every person, regardless of background, economic status, or level of ability.
The cutting-edge carpentry and weatherization training program prepares its students for the emerging green-collar job market in the fields of renewable and sustainable energy. When members of low-income communities earn a living wage, they can eventually stop receiving government financial assistance. Families are able to pay local taxes and spend more money in their neighborhoods. SAOIC boasts graduates who are skilled and motivated workers and are able to care for their families, stabilize, and revitalize their communities. These types of programs strengthen the community by preparing individuals to assume their roles as workers, parents, and citizens. It allows individuals, who aspire to provide a better life for themselves, to have pride and stability in what we all want for our families, our environment, and Minnesota’s economy. The largest opportunity for women and minorities to participate in Minnesota’s thriving construction industry yet, lies in road and bridge reconstruction.
SAOIC TURN TO 11
Commentary Giving boys a strong start
PAGE 2
I am worthy: Art inspires abuse awareness feelings to describe the inner and outer pain associated with abuse; books, poems, and films have been dedicated to building awareness of these struggles. Gretchen Dreisbach, a Minneapolis-based visual artist, has dedicated her works to this movement. Her work reflects her own experiences of abuse and have the intent to educate and inspire all. Dreisbach will present one of her biggest shows yet, “I am Worthy: Art Inspires Abuse Awareness,” July 14-24, at the Calhoun Building on 711 Lake Street in Minneapolis, MN. The
By Alaina L. Lewis Contributing Writer Abuse can be many things: physical, verbal, sexual, or even self-inflicted. Through each struggle between the powerful and the powerless, comes the will to overcome such atrocities. There are many words and Courtesy of the artist
Painting by Gretchen Dreisbach titled ‘My Entity Luciano’, size: 7’ x 5’-6”, materials: acrylic paint on canvas, made in: 2004.
traveling exhibit was created to encourage the public to not only appreciate her artwork and her story, but to also assist in ending all forms of abuse everywhere. Dreisbach utilizes her creativity to transform the innocence of a whitewashed canvas into a journey of colorful strokes and hidden meaning. Having spent 32 years daring her spiritual consciousness to connect with her paintbrush, she has sent her artwork on a journey through various channels,
ART TURN TO 11
What if? Contemplating the shutdown Gateway to excellence By Scott Gray MUL President/CEO As I was penning these words, I was reflecting on the fact that at this very moment-as a community, and moreover as a state-we are all filled with trepidation, wondering
Northside relief effort
NEON grant supports Northside business growth
PAGE 3
what will happen in just 48 hours. We contemplate the keen uncertainty, as we watch Governor Mark Dayton and the Minnesota Legislature jockey to approve a 2011-12 state budget. July 1 is the start of the new fiscal year, but will it commence? Governor Dayton wants to raise $1.8 in new taxes, spending $35.8 over the next two years, while the legislature wants to only spend the $34 billion the state is projected to collect. Will a compromise be made? Hopefully, as you read this
today in print, if a government shutdown has occurred, it has already been resolved, and better yet, it never came to pass at all. Even considering a best case scenario, one has to ask the questions what if a government shutdown were to last 30 days, who is impacted most severely, and how do government shutdowns contribute to pushing those already living in peril on the fringes, practically over the edge. A Political Financial Storm The state’s $5 billion budget deficit has been festering
Education
Emerson and Windom students spend week in Puerto Rico
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since November 2010. The Governor wants to tax the wealthy, and the legislature aims to cut spending but not increase taxes. Can they compromise for the greater good? Can they work together for the benefit of this state over the next two years, and will the issues faced by those most in need be entered into the financial equation? The sad fact is that those who rely upon the human and health services, the social programs,
GRAY TURN TO 11
Health
Congressman Ellison participates in National HIV Testing Day
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COMMENTARY
Giving boys a strong start but Shawn realized those who had taken mostly gym weren’t moving on to much of anything. Today Shawn leads the Campaign for Black Male Achievement for the Open Society Foundations. He shared this story at an achievement gap symposium hosted by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) and the Children’s Defense Fund (CDF) on June 14 that brought together some of the leading educators, researchers, and policy experts in Washington, D.C. to confront the crisis facing the 3.5 million Black boys from birth to age nine and to highlight programs that are making a difference. A Strong Start: Positioning Young Black Boys For Educational Success addressed the daunting achievement gap many incorrectly believe is too big to solve and shared examples of best practices and leadership that are doing so. The need to increase and support parent involvement was a key theme throughout the conference. In a week when the nation was preparing to celebrate Father’s Day, scholars noted that the high percentages of Black boys growing up in poverty and in
Child Watch
By Marian Wright Edelman When Shawn Dove was in sixth grade, the students at his New York City school were asked to decide which academic track they wanted to follow for the next two years. He decided to choose “major gym,” just like the rest of his friends. But when he brought the form home to his single mother and said “Hey, Mom—can you sign this for me?,” his mother said, “No—you’re not going to major in gym! There’s no future in gym. You’re taking science and math.” Shawn spent the next two years mad at his mother every day as he could hear the noise and laughter coming from the gym while he went thirty yards down the hall for math and science classes. But then when Shawn finished eighth grade, he understood. He and the other young people who had majored in science and math had the chance to move on to good high schools like Bronx Science,
PhotoXpress
EDELMAN TURN TO 11
What is the economy anyway? By Ann Manning The current GOP leadership and their colleagues in the Minnesota House and Senate are the unfortunate victims of the Taxpayer’s League and Governor Tim Pawlenty’s foolish “no new taxes, ever” pledge. I suspect many Republican legislators know that the best thing for
Minnesota right now is to ask everyone to pay their fair share -- and that means a small tax increase for the top 2 percent of Minnesota’s high-income households. When I hear the conservative mantra that we are unfairly “taking from the rich,” I want to remind them that in any legitimate democracy we all benefit from and “take” from each other and the rich do take from the middle class and
the poor. The amazing public systems in this country -physical infrastructure, patents and trademark protection, public schools, libraries, and hospitals -- are something we built together, as citizens. The wealthy have not only benefitted enormously from these investments we all helped build, but over the past 30 years, they have further used their wealth to enact tax policy to benefit themselves
disproportionately to the rest of the citizens. Corporations, who are also doing enormously well, have slowly but steadily eroded the power of workers and shifted a disproportionate share of the enormous economic growth in this country to the top. Wages and household income for the middle class and the poor are either flat or down over the past 30 years. We all know what’s happened at the
top --astronomical increases in income and wealth. This is not the “invisible hand” of the market. This is cronyism in the boardrooms of America and the power of money to write the rules. The economy is a measure of how well we are doing. It exists to serve “we the people,” and to sustain a vibrant, living planet. We somehow have turned it all backwards and now worship and worry about
the economy. “Oh, no, we can’t raise taxes -- it will hurt the economy!” As a brilliant communications strategist, Anat Shenker-Osorio notes: It’s not the economy that hurts, it’s we the people! The economy is the metaphor we use to describe how we are all doing on the journey through life. Right
ECONOMY TURN TO 10
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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 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.
Insight News • July 4 - July 10, 2011 • Page 3
NEON grant supports Northside business growth The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) has awarded a $200,000 grant to the Northside Economic Opportunity Network (NEON), a nonprofit collaborative that specializes in providing guidance and economic development services to businesses and entrepreneurs in north Minneapolis. The grant is part of a commitment that Gov. Mark Dayton made in March to encourage business and job growth in a part of the Twin Cities that has struggled with issues of poverty and chronic unemployment. “We are pleased to award
Suluki Fardan
Grover Jones
this funding to a group that knows the neighborhood and
has done much to promote entrepreneurship and economic activity in north Minneapolis,” said DEED Commissioner Mark Phillips. “The Northside Economic Opportunity Network is committed to creating an environment that encourages job growth and other opportunities for residents in that part of the city.” Under the effort, the group provides a variety of services to neighborhood businesses and entrepreneurs, including counseling, business planning and marketing, access to capital, cashflow management and startup assistance. The one-year initiative began July 1 and will run through June
30, 2012. All services provided under the program are available at no cost to clients. Neighborhoods that are eligible for services under the initiative are Harrison, SumnerGlenwood, Near North, WillardHay, Jordan, Hawthorne, Cleveland, Folwell, McKinley, Victory, Weber-Camdem, Shingle Creek and Lind-Bohanon. The Northside Economic Opportunity Network, formed in 2005, is led by executive director Grover Jones. Current partners in the group are Build Wealth Minnesota, Catalyst Community Partners, EMERGE Community Development, the Metropolitan Consortium of Community
Developers, Metropolitan Economic Development Agency, the Minnesota Black Chamber of Commerce, the Neighborhood Development Center, Northway Community Trust, ProBid LLC and the West Broadway Business and Area Coalition. DEED is the state’s principal economic development agency, promoting business recruitment, expansion and retention, workforce development, international trade and community development. For more details about the agency and our services, visit us at www. PositivelyMinnesota.com. Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ PositivelyMN.
Helping children cope with trauma Murua
By Dr. BraVada GarrettAkinsanya, Ph.D., L.P. I love children, don’t you? They see the world so honestly and they approach life with such pure abandonment, courage and genuineness. They are often openly affectionate and loving. In fact, there is nothing “fake” about a child. In fact, I recall a story of a little boy around 4-5 years old who went to get his Annual wellness check-up at a
place like NorthPoint Health and Wellness Center. While there, the doctor checked his throat and in her attempt to be engaging she asked the child “Do you think I’ll find the ‘Cookie Monster’ down there?” The child politely gargled “No” and looked at the doctor as if she had come from another planet. She proceeded to conduct the examination by checking his ears and asking: “Do you think I’ll find ‘Big Bird’ in there? Again, the child looking a little exasperated said to the doctor: “No ma’am, I don’t think so!” Finally, the doctor took her stethoscope to check his heart and asked him: “Do you think I’ll find ‘Barney’ in there?” The child emphatically replied, “No, Love is in my heart!... Barney’s on my underpants!”
Children then, are especially vulnerable socially, emotionally and physically when a traumatic event occurs such as the tornado that hit North Minneapolis. After any disaster, children are most afraid that the event will recur, that they or someone they love will be hurt or killed, that they may be separated from those they love and be left alone. Meanwhile, parents and caregivers are often at a loss when they notice a shift in their child’s attitudes and behaviors. One mother with whom I recently spoke described her child as exhibiting characteristics of withdrawal whereas he was normally one of the most out-going children in the household. Researchers say that when
Affordable Care Act to improve data collection, reduce health disparities HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius recently announced new draft standards for collecting and reporting data on race, ethnicity, sex, primary language and disability status, and announced the administration’s plans to begin collecting health data on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) populations. Both efforts aim to help researchers, policy makers, health providers and advocates to identify and address health disparities afflicting these communities. “Health disparities have persistent and costly affects for minority communities, and the whole country,” Secretary Sebelius said. “Today we are taking critical steps toward ensuring the collection of useful national data on minority groups, including for the first time, LGBT populations. The data we will eventually collect in these efforts will serve as powerful tools and help us in our fight to end health disparities.” Under the plan, HHS will integrate questions on sexual orientation into national data collection efforts by 2013 and begin a process to collect information on gender identity. This plan includes the testing of questions on sexual orientation to potentially be
HEALTH TURN TO 10
traumatic events occur, they impact our brains’ ability to function. We have a threat response that leads to only three choices: “fight, flight, or freeze.” What that means is that the most primitive parts of our brain (called the limbic system) put into motion a series of commands that tell us that we are experiencing a perceived imminent threat. We make our decisions based on the memories associated with our past experiences with danger as well as an awareness of our current environmental options. The problem with children is that, well, they don’t have much experience and their brains are still developing logical pathways to decision making. These logical
pathways lead to skills in the area of Executive Functioning. The National Center for Learning Disabilities defines Executive Functioning as a “set of mental processes that helps connect past experience with present action.” Therefore, when our children experience trauma, we have to understand that they may not know how to handle what has happened and we must consider the context in which any past trauma experiences have occurred in their lives. The National Association of School Psychologists report that when it comes to trauma, the closer a child is to the
TRAUMA TURN TO 10
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EDUCATION Emerson and Windom students spend week in Puerto Rico Fourth- and fifth-graders from Windom Dual Immersion School and Emerson Spanish Immersion Learning Center in early June embarked on an immersion experience, spending a week in Puerto Rico to study Spanish and learn about the island’s culture. “The best way to learn about another culture is to totally immerse yourself,” said Windom teacher Jim Clark. “We work hard to create authentic Spanish-speaking environments in our schools, but of course they are not entirely real. These students experienced a new culture firsthand and had an incredible opportunity to practice their Spanish and make new friends.” The idea for the trip came from Windom Principal Lucilla
Emerson and Windom students
Courtesy of MPS
Yira, a native of Puerto Rico who has led similar trips for high school students. Participants from Windom and Emerson included around 30 students from each school, along with five staff members and five parent chaperones. Students attended classes in San Juan each morning with Puerto Rican students and spent the afternoons enjoying the island’s cultural and natural resources. Emerson Principal Mark Quinn said that in addition to strengthening Spanish language skills and meeting young people from another culture, the trip provided an opportunity for students from Windom and Emerson to build relationships with one another. Students from both schools attend Anwatin Middle School,
a dual immersion/international baccalaureate school, for grades six, seven and eight. “Traveling and studying together will help our students build new bonds of friendship that they can strengthen as they transition to middle school,” he said. The cost per student was $1,400 and all money earned from general fundraising was shared to allow as many to participate as possible. “Many parents really sacrificed to help their kids take this trip,” said Clark. Quinn and Clark said plans are underway to make the Puerto Rico trip every two years, with Puerto Rican students visiting Minnesota in alternating years.
Hale Elementary math students place top in nation Students from Hale Elementary School on June 14 were recognized by the Minneapolis Board of Education for their achievements in the “First in Math” online learning program. Hale placed first out of all grades in the state of Minnesota and 21st in the nation. In addition, a thirdgrade class taught by Josh
Bliss finished 30th in the nation for all grades and first in the nation for third grade. Two students in Bliss’s class were individually honored for placing in the top 100 in the nation. Mandie Flint placed 30th for all grades, fifth for all third-graders in the nation and first overall for the state of Minnesota. Emma
Haugstad ranked 66th in the country for all grades, 11th for all third graders in the nation and second in the state for all grades. The First in Math program works to increase student achievement in mathematics by reinforcing regular classroom math teaching. First in Math uses a brain-based learning
technique known as “deep practice,” which accelerates skills in computation, problemsolving, critical thinking and pattern recognition. These efforts are aligned with the Minneapolis Public Schools strategic plan goals of raising rigor and academic achievement for all students. “Research shows the
effectiveness of using online methods to practice math skills, and the First in Math program functions as this type of online supplement,” said Mary Ellen Knappmiller, a teacher on special assignment with the MPS Teaching and Learning department. “It also provides reinforcement in testtaking skills. It really stretches
any student, no matter where he or she is at.” The exceptionally high scores achieved by Bliss’s class were roughly 60 percent higher than the second place national scores. There were over 1.2 million participants in the “First in Math” program this year.
Hopkins Public Schools hosts three-day Equity Symposium Hopkins Public Schools hosted an Equity Symposium on June 7, 8 and 9. Each day was devoted to a different topic around equity and education. About 60 people attended each session, which was open to equity specialists, equity team members, principals, master teachers, and school board members. Three facilitators led the symposium. The lineup is listed as follows:
Dr. Mac Hines, III
June 7 – “Undoing whiteness: calling out the wizard behind the curtain.” Led by Dr. Heather Hackman. June 8 – “Teaching BeBe’s kids: methodology for teaching ‘hard to teach’ students.” Led by Dr. Lucian Yates, III. June 9 – “Race matters when teaching and reaching African American students.” Led by Dr. Mack Hines, III. The purpose of the seminar
was to give teachers and staff the tools, knowledge and instructional methods to reach the knowledge base of all students and teach to their strengths. These tools increase the self-confidence and selfesteem of students, which also broadens the potential for academic success. “In order to become culturally proficient, we must constantly be in search of
opportunities to grow our knowledge of the cultures and races represented in our schools and classrooms,” said Dr. Stanley Brown, coordinator of equity and inclusion for Hopkins Public Schools. Hopkins Public Schools is committed to equity and inclusion for all students. Currently, 36 percent of students are of color and 34 percent qualify for Free and
Reduced Price Lunch. About 7 percent are English Language Learners. Participants left the symposium with a greater knowledge of the importance and the relevance of teaching with race and culture in mind. Each day was constructed to challenge thinking, provoke courageous conversations on race and expand perceptions on teaching and learning.
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AESTHETICS 2011 Minnesota Black Music Awards salutes Alexander O’Neal The 20th MBMA Awards on July 15th at the Pantages Theatre will benefit the Northside relief efforts. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to support the survivors of the tragic tornados that occurred in May. Program founder and producers Pete and Kim Rhodes said, “The 2011 MBMA program is honored to join the community to support the Northside community relief efforts and celebrate the 31st anniversary of the artist’s music and contributions to our arts, culture and diversity of the twin cities music community”.
The awards will salute one of R&B music most versatile singers Alexander O’Neal. Other recognition will be presented to Rhymesayers Entertainment, Next, The Bennett Family (Marie Graham, Ann Nesby, Jamecia and Paris Bennett), Bobby Lyle and Irv Williams. Additional awards will be presented to art industry and community leaders. The Minnesota Black Music Awards program returns Friday, July 15th 8:00pm to the Pantages Theatre. Tickets are available at TicketMaster and
Alexander O’Neal
the State Theatre Box office. The Awards master of ceremony is Singer/actor T. Mychael Rambo. Performers include Darnell Davis & The Remnant, Boom Box, Toki Wright, fDeluxe (formally The Family), Kredentials, Diva’s on the Rise featuring Chantel SinGs, Laura Bell, Margeaux Davis and Ashley Dubose. Special guest cameos performances from Alexander O’Neal, Auburn, Bobby Lyle and Next. Members of the National R&B group, Mint Condition and Next will chair an 11:00am
free music symposium at Seven Restaurant in downtown Minneapolis. The workshop features industry mentors discussing artist management, finances, health, production and marketing. A VIP red carpet event will open the evening at 7:00pm followed by the MBMA all-stars post party following the awards show July 15th at Seven Ultra Lounge Sky bar. Visit The Minnesota Black Music Awards official website at www. blackmusicamerica. com for event schedule and information.
Bedlam Theatre and Mixed Blood Theatre presents
Ku soo Dhawaada Xaafadeena For more than 100 years, immigrants to Minnesota have called Cedar Riverside their first home. Ku soo Dhawaada Xaafadeena (Welcome to Our Neighborhood), an original play created by, for, about and with the people of Cedar Riverside, in collaboration with playwright David Grant, sheds light on the experiences of the thousands of East African immigrants who now call Minnesota home. Inspired by dozens of personal narratives, which were collected during a series of community story circles organized by Bedlam and Mixed Blood Theatres, the engaging drama weaves together a tapestry of fictionalized stories that will be performed by the Voices of Cedar Riverside Ensemble of emerging East African youth and young adult actors. Ku soo Dhawaada Xaafadeena (Welcome to Our Neighborhood), directed by Bedlam’s John Bueche, will be presented for two weekends: July 23-24 at 7:00pm in conjunction with East African community celebrations, and July 28-31 at 7:00pm. All performances take place at the Cedar Cultural Center, 416 Cedar Ave., Minneapolis. In Ku soo Dhawaada Xaafadeena (Welcome to Our Neighborhood), Nadifa Islaweyne (Hamdi Mohamed) is a gifted high school senior with a bright future awaiting her. Abdi Hassan (Abdi Farah) is a respected youth worker and part-time college student. The
couple’s growing commitment to each other is tested when a close friend of Abdi’s is arrested on suspicion of terrorist activity and Abdi is arrested for allegedly sheltering him. The Voices of Cedar Riverside Ensemble includes Amal Ali, Sakariya Ali, Samira Ali, Chaltu Berento, Abdi Farah, Fardosa Jama, Sharmarke Jama, Ifrah Mansour, Hamdi Mohamed, Shirwa Mohamed, Sara Mohammed Nur, Shemse Nuru, Farrington Starnes and Shaadiah Swenson. Performances on SaturdaySunday, July 23-24 at 7 pm are free as part of an East African community celebration of entertainment and cultural events. Tickets for the July 28-31 shows are $15 general admission, $10 student price, and free to Cedar Riverside residents. Purchase tickets in advance at 612-338-6131 or online at www. mixedblood.com. This project is made possible by a grant provided by the Minnesota State Arts Board, through an appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature from
VOCREnsemble
Above: Chaltu Berento and Sharmarke Farah. Front page, clockwise from left: Sharmake Farah, Chaltu Berento, Sara Mohammed Nur, Zak, Amal Ali, Hamdi Mohamed, Shemse Nuru, Shirwa Mohamed, Ifrah, Abdi Farah, Fardosa Jama, Farrington Starnes
Anointed Entertainment, Inc Boys To Men Group Home SBurress Enterprises PRESENT:
Marvin Sapp Colon Cancer Awareness Benefit
“An Evening For Your Soul, A Night of Internal Peace” July 23, 2011
Designed by: Kathy 612-282-0310
Hit Songs Include: Never Would Have Made It He Saw The Best In Me
The O’Shaughnessy at St Catherine University
Hosted & Special Performance By Gospel Comedian SHED G
2004 Randolph St. St. Paul, MN 55105 Doors Open: 6:00pm ~ Show Starts: 7:00pm Ticket Information: 651-690-6700 & 612-414-2454 Driving Instructions: oshaughnessy.stkate.edu
$20~$35~$50. . . True Apostolic Children of Grace Choir featuring: Tonia Hughes
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“At the request of the American Cancer Society, a portion of the proceeds will go to the Northside Disaster Relief”
the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund with money
from the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.
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HEALTH
Congressman Ellison signs the consent form and gets tested.
Congressman Ellison participates in National HIV Testing Day Congressman Keith Ellison (D-Minneapolis) joined Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-California) last week on National HIV Testing Day to renew his commitment to ending the stigma of being tested for HIV. “Today I received a rapid mouth swab HIV test in Washington where I was found to be negative. I wanted to show
the importance of being tested on a regular basis, it’s the only way you can know your status” Ellison said. At the moment 1 in 5 people living with HIV do not know they are infected with HIV. As HIV rates in the United States climb it is increasingly important for individuals to be tested regularly. “The stigma of being tested for HIV is still present in many
communities. By renewing my commitment, I hope to show those in my district and around the country that this simple test could possibly stop the transition of HIV to another person” Ellison added. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), a staggering 56,300 Americans are newly infected with HIV each year. HIV can only be spread
through breast milk, unprotected sex, blood transmission, and needle sharing. New medical technology enables doctors to stop the transmission of HIV from mother to child. Rep. Ellison is a consistent advocate for HIV awareness and today, by renewing his support, he hopes to strengthen the fight against this preventable disease.
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LIFESTYLE
How to throw a great BBQ (StatePoint) Warmer weather means it’s time to take the party outdoors. But don’t settle for simply doling out burgers and dogs on a paper plate. Unique party themes and dishes can help you wow your guests from the comfort of your back porch. Here are some ideas to consider before your next barbeque:
Spices add new flavor to grilling classics
Alison Miksch
They also say you should be flexible with flavor and advocate innovative recipes for sprucing up your brisket with espresso or turkey with a smoky coconut rub. It’s all about trying new flavors and dishes to create a unique barbeque experience.
Pick a Theme A party without a theme is like a song without a rhythm. It provides the beat of the party and informs all creative decision making, from food to music to decoration. No matter where you live, consider a summer beach theme, encouraging guests to wear bikinis and board shorts. Other great themes include a Hawaiian luau, a Texas BBQ or a southern hoedown. These grill-friendly party options are a perfect way to celebrate the season.
Entertain You’ve got the food and decorations covered, but you’re not done yet. Be sure to set up speakers in your backyard so guests aren’t straining to hear tinny beats from your laptop. And if your friends are the type to engage in a loud dance party, always warn the neighbors. Lawn games are also a fun addition to a summer shindig. Badminton, whiffle ball and bocce ball are easy to set up and sure to be crowd pleasers. For those less athletically minded, a card game is a fun follow up to dinner.
Go Beyond Burgers All too often, hosts confine their barbeque to burgers with little flavor on a tasteless bun. “Grilling is not simply a matter of tossing food over fire,” says Andrew Schloss, co- author with David Joachim of “Fire It Up: More Than 400 Recipes for Grilling Everything.” Schloss and Joachim say you can go beyond the burger by grilling just about anything, from duck to dessert.
Keep It Safe Grilling can be dangerous if you aren’t careful. Keep it safe by grilling outdoors, away from children and pets. Use clean, undamaged equipment. And while nothing goes better with a BBQ than beer, the grill master should avoid impairing his or her reflexes and judgment. “If your grill catches fire, turn off your grill and gas supply,” says Joachim. “If the fire is anywhere
near the fuel source (propane or natural gas), evacuate the area and call the fire department.” For more grilling tips and recipes, check out the new “Fire
It Up” cookbook or visit www. davejoachim.com. With a little creativity, you can turn a good party great in your own backyard.
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COMMUNITY An unusual business alliance helps stock food shelves Now through July 30th, 14 Twin Cities area independent Picture Framing shops and Art Galleries have joined forces to help stock the food shelves. These designated drop sites will be collecting nonperishable food items and financial donations to benefit the Emergency Foodshelf Network, a local full service food bank located in New Hope. “The willingness of this diverse group of business owners to work together for this food drive shows just how involved each Picture Framer is in their own individual community” stated Tracy Goodland, executive vice president for TC Moulding. With the recent storm disaster in North Minneapolis and economic issues continuing to take a toll on
local food shelves, TC Moulding, a Roseville distributor of picture framing supplies to the arts, has coordinated a group of their creative arts businesses for this first of its kind food drive. The goal of this collective food drive is to provide over 10,000 individual meals through the network of businesses and their customers. A website has been established, www.fooddrive.tcmoulding.com, to locate the 14 framers who have registered as drop off sites and this food drive effort. For any additional information, or to be added as a drop site for this food drive please call Tracy Goodland at 651-636-6646 ext.111 or email tagoodlund@tcmoulding. com Ben Williams
Classifieds/Calendar DUPLEXES FOR RENT East St. Paul - 2 bdrm remodeled duplex unit. $795/month - Income Restricted Properties - EHO - 651-430-1888 www.applegateproperties.com
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 Summer Dance Series - Thurs. thru Aug. 4 Every Thursday through August 4, the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts is hosting its Summer Dance Series, a free event located at the Landmark Plaza in downtown Saint Paul. This series includes free lessons and dance demos, as well as live music from local bands, every week! Whether you want to groove to Reggae music or perfect your Ballroom steps, there is something for everyone. Food and beverages are available for purchase starting at 5:30pm, dance Instruction begins at 6pm, and live music begins at 7:15pm. For more info call 651.224.4222 or visit http://www.ordway.org/summerdance/” 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
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10th, August 14th, September 18th, October 9th. @ Powderhorn Park, near the stage. Minnesota’s Waiting Children PreAdopt Training - June Downey Side…families for youth, invites perspective adoptive parents for Minnesota’s Waiting Children to attend MN Public Private Adoption Initiative Pre-Adopt Training on June 16, 20, 23, 27 5:30-8:30pm, and June 25 9am-1pm. Trainings will be located at Downey Side Minnesota’s St. Paul office, 450 N. Syndicate Street, St Paul, MN 55104. There is no charge to families preparing to adopt children under state guardianship. Pre-Registration is required. To register, email stpaulmn@ downeyside.org or call 651-228-0117. Waiver Overview for Individuals Under 65 - July 5 People who are disabled and under the age of 65 are invited to a free information session on Wed., July 5, 10:30am-12:30pm, Hennepin County Library – Ridgedale, Room 229, 12601 Ridgedale Dr., Minnetonka. Waivers are designed to allow enrollees easier access to home and community-based services versus receiving care in hospitals or nursing facilities. Information to be covered includes: The service menu for each waiver program, examples of how programs are used, the process to apply. You must register for this session. Call 612-596-6631 or go to www.hennepin. us/adsinfo. Cast Members of “Annie Jr.” Visit The Red Balloon Bookshop. - July 9 A delightful morning awaits you at The Red Balloon Bookshop when members of the cast of Stages Theatre Company’s
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EMAIL: andrew@insightnews.com
production of Annie, Jr., the awardwinning musical based on the comic strip Little Orphan Annie, come to story time. Enjoy hit songs from Annie, Jr. performed by Miss Hannigan (actress Jennifer Kirkeby) and Annie (actress Tori Adams). Sat. July 9 10:30am. FREE
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.
St. Joan of Arc Church MH/MIM 2nd Mon - July 11 Mon, July 11, 5:45-8:15p; Light meal provided; Film: Inside Outside: Building a Meaningful Life after the Hospital, www.patdeegan.com; Info: Free/open to all; Certificate of Attendance; Roseann 612.823.8205; Mary claudemaryparadis@comcast. net; @ St. Joan of Arc Hospitality Hall, Door 1, 4537 3rd Ave. S., Mpls; www. stjoan.com
Live on the Drive - July 14 The 10-piece all-star group La Gran Charanga brings their romantic boleros, hip-shaking meringues and salsa music to Live on the Drive, Thursday, July 14, 6-8pm, at 34th Avenue North and Victory Memorial Parkway, one of the most beautiful concert settings in the city. The event is free.
Adoptees and Parents, Adoptees as Parents: Transforming the Power Imbalance - July 13 Presented by Dr. John Raible from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. John Raible’s life experiences have given him much insight into living as an adopted person and adoptive parent. Wed., July 13, 12-1:30pm. $15/person ($25/person includes webinar CD) Registration details: Contact Julia Decker, 612-7465133, j.decker@aha.mn 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
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). Poetry & Open Mic - July 15 Feat: Hersi, IBé & (i am) isis - from New York. Fri. July 15 6-9pm @ the Loft 1011 Washington Ave. S. #200, Mpls. FREE - Advanced sign-up required or register to perform @ mshale15years. com Youth as Contributors: The Role of New Media & Technology - July 18 This webinar will explore the meaning of media literacy, highlight positive ways youth can and are using new technologies, and discuss the challenges and opportunities in doing so. Mon., July 18, 11:30-1:00. Free, but registration is mandatory: http://
www.regonline.com/Register/Checkin. aspx?EventID=987701 Art at St. Kates - July 23 Quality fine crafts and fine art, is produced by Artists’ Circle, a Minnesota non-profit art organization promoting fine crafts since 1995, and Textile Center, a national center for fiber arts in Minneapolis. Sat. July 23 10am-5pm. www.artatkates.org 3rd Annual Walk for Pilgrim - July 23 Lace up your tennis shows and grab your water bottle. Our goal is to raise $7,500 to fund our ministries that affect and support our community. Visit our website at pilgrimbaptistchurch.org for pledge forms and more information or contact Stephanie Dilworth at 612 626-6985. Sat., July 23 at Como Park 9-11:30am. 12th Annual Comedy for Choice July 28 Singer, actor, and writer Leslie Ball, founder and host of BALLS Cabaret, will lend her many talents to the 12th Annual Comedy for Choice, a fundraiser for NARAL Pro-Choice Minnesota. Comedy for Choice will showcase the comedic art of Nate Abshire, Mary Hirsch, Pat Susmilch, and Amber Preston. Thur. July 28, Doors at 6pm. Varsity Theater - 1308 4th St. SE Mpls. Minnesota Sinfonia: Northside Music and Arts Festival - July 28 Thur., July 28 at 5pm. North Commons Park, 1801 James Ave. N., Mpls. Rainsite at North High School, 1500 James Ave. N, Mpls. FREE. 612.871.1701 www.mnsinfonia.org
Coffee Break
S T A T E P O I N T CROSSWORD THEME: 21ST CENTURY ACROSS 1. Involuntary contraction 6. Mad Hatter’s beverage of choice 9. Additional
13. “Fear of Flying” author Jong 14. Argo propeller 15. Whale’s lunch 16. Language like Chinese, e.g. 17. Plays for pay 18. Mountain nymph of Greek mythology 19. *Asian disaster, 2004 21. Screw up
23. *”___ and a Half Men” 24. Tropical tuberous root 25. Bar association 28. 1/36th of a yard 30. Give expression to 35. Bottle to a baby? 37. Student’s dwelling 39. NE’s largest city 40. Very dark black 41. Double-reed woodwinds 43. Miners’ passage 44. Blood vessel 46. *Author of “Decision Points” 47. *Chilean disaster locale 48. *Did Casey Anthony have one? 50. Needlefish 52. Jack and Jill did it 53. St. Louis attraction 55. Flightless bird 57. Farthest from point of origin 60. *Has 140 character limit 64. Panna _____, dessert 65. Promissory note 67. Balance zodiac 68. Chicago’s planetarium 69. In good shape 70. Antelope with twisted horns 71. *World’s fastest man 72. *H1N1 73. Central Asia inhabitants, to ancient Greeks DOWN 1. Cobblestone 2. Plural of #17 across 3. Hokkaido language 4. Less than the right amount 5. Mozambique neighbor 6. Large South African antelope
7. A corncob 8. Smell of baking bread, e.g. 9. Makes a mistake 10. “Place” in French 11. “Sounds like a plan,” acr. 12. Old age, archaic 15. *Self-declared independent state, Europe 20. World in Italian 22. Before, archaic 24. Drive-_______ 25. At right angle to length of ship 26. Hindi courtesy title 27. Terminate, as in mission 29. Baseball great infamous for surly temperament 31. Allah’s cleric 32. Rock bottom 33. *Economic behemoth 34. Consumed at dinner, e.g. 36. Not in favor 38. ____ Verde National Park 42. Mole relative 45. *Highest-grossing movie ever, 2009 49. *21st century of Common ___ 51. Upside down frowns 54. Vertical rock exposure 56. Being of service 57. Famously extinct 58. It will 59. Proofreader’s “disregard” word 60. *Portman’s character attire, 2010 61. Type of ski lift 62. European sea eagle 63. Radicals 64. *In many cities, this yellow ride got greener 66. *Spilled from the Horizon
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“You must learn to say no when something is not right for you.” — Leontyne Price Answers on page ge 9
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Insight News • July 4 - July 10, 2011 • Page 9
BUSINESS Sharing salaries: Someone’s not going to be happy Plan Your Career By Julie Desmond julie@insightnews.com Working forty plus hours with the same people week after week, co-workers commonly develop close friendships. And with long weeks comes
some amount of down time, which leads to conversations which leads to deeper trust levels. All this is great for company morale. But that friendship can end abruptly if someone senses the boss is playing favorites, especially with salaries. The “I’ll tell you mine if you tell me yours,” conversation starter always has the same ending: someone is going to walk away mad. Let’s say you are earning far more than your co-worker for the same job. You did not
mean to let your pay rate slip out. Maybe you overheard what someone else was making and you acted surprised; maybe you laughed out loud. Now your colleague is curious. He wants to know why you never complain about low wages. She wonders why you eat out every day, when everyone else brings a sandwich from home. Maybe you even felt some pride about your superiority. That’s what it is, right? If you earn more than your co-worker, you must be more significant in
the eyes of the company where you work, right? Wrong. You are just the same person doing the same work, sacrificing the same amount of sweat as everyone else. Maybe you caught a break and were able to develop more experience than your friendly co-worker. Education plays a part in compensation calculations. So does potential. If you are earning more, and your friendly cohorts find out, you will have more time to focus on your work because
your friends are going to walk away angry, or puzzled and scratching their heads, wondering what you’ve ever done to deserve that kind of money. The second possible outcome when salary chatter begins is that you will discover you are earning far less than your co-worker. What does that do for you? Do you feel compelled to file a formal complaint? Do you think it would put a few more dollars in your pocket? It won’t.
But it will put a rift in your friendship. This time the one walking away angry is you. A third possibility is that when someone starts talking salaries you will discover everyone is earning the same amount of money for equivalent work. But don’t count on it. Julie Desmond is a recruiter with Specialized Recruiting Group in Minneapolis, MN. Write to julie@insightnews.com.
UCare names Houlton Behavioral Health Services Director UCare has hired Nancy Houlton as the organization’s Behavioral Health Services Director. Houlton previously was Manager of Long Term Care, Adult Protective Services, and Managed Care at Ramsey County Human. In that role, Houlton oversaw managed care services, home and community programs supporting the elderly and people with disabilities, foster care licensing, and adult protective services. In her new position, Houlton is responsible for the clinical quality, operational
efficiency, strategic planning, and fiscal management of UCare’s behavioral health services. She oversees UCare’s compliance with regulatory requirements from UCare’s oversight agencies, including the Minnesota Department of Health, Minnesota Department of Human Services, and the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Houlton also is responsible for UCare’s business relationships with contracted and delegated behavioral service entities. “We created the new
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21ST CENTURY
Director of Behavioral Health Services position to help us strengthen our integration of medical and behavioral services at UCare,” says Dr. Kuzel. “Nancy has extensive management experience in both the treatment and administrative aspects of mental health care in county and nonprofit agency settings. Prior to joining Ramsey County Human Services, Houlton was manager of the Ramsey County Mental Health Center in St. Paul for 14 years. Professional affiliations include serving
Nancy Houlton
as a representative with the Minnesota Association for Community Mental Health Programs, and the Ramsey County Mental Health Advisory Board. She is a member of the Women’s Health Leadership Trust-Minnesota. UCare (www.ucare.org) is an independent, nonprofit health plan providing health care and administrative services to more than 225,000 members. UCare partners with health care providers, counties, and community organizations to create and deliver innovative
health coverage products for: Individuals and families enrolled in incomebased Minnesota Health Care Programs, such as MinnesotaCare and Prepaid Medical Assistance Program. Adults with disabilities and Medicare beneficiaries with chronic health conditions. Minnesotans dually eligible for Medical Assistance and Medicare. Medicare-eligible individuals throughout Minnesota and in western Wisconsin.
We Care, Northside Certified Section 3 Contractors. Note: Homeowners and businesses should always verify license and insurance.
Page 10 • July 4 - July 10, 2011 • Insight News
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Trauma From 3
Ignacio Carrilo
Courtesy of FCG
Ignacio Carrillo to lead FCG Latino Flowers Communications Group (FCG), a leader in multicultural communications, recently appointed Ignacio H. Carrillo as Vice President. As the agency celebrates 20 years in business and five years of its FCG Latino practice, Carrillo continues to strengthen the firm’s Hispanic marketing communications efforts and expand its depth in the social media and creative sectors. Carrillo, a seasoned communicator with years of experience in general market and multicultural markets, has previously held seniorlevel posts at the Experiencia Agency, Weber Shandwick/ Axis, and The Jeffrey Group. “Ignacio is smart, energetic, and results driven. More importantly, he is passionate about the Hispanic consumer market and understands how to create programs that make the connection,” said FCG president, Rashada Whitehead. “His considerable experience and consumer-centric approach through social media, live engagement and non-traditional public relations are timely and relevant. As a part of his duties at FCG, Carrillo also oversees the MillerCoors account. “We are very excited about the opportunity of working with Ignacio (Carrillo),” said Larry Waters, VP of multicultural relations at MillerCoors. Prior to joining FCG, Carrillo was consulting for agencies like Fleishman-Hillard and Schwartz Communications among others. During this time he developed and managed
new business development plans, social media campaigns, and experiential consulting strategies. It’s key we leverage consumer insights, social media tools, and innovative creative to continue to drive our clients’ business forward.” Carrillo will be instrumental in the growth and expansion of FCG’s Latino and social media practice groups. He will lead a team of his FCG colleagues working to expand the agency’s US Hispanic and digital media practice, including Tony Balasandiran, Juan Alvarez, Harvey Henao, Ebonne Just, Paris Tyler, Daisy Garcia, and Chevonne Collins. Flowers Communications Group (FCG) is one of the country’s leading multicultural communications agencies. Founded in 1991 by D. Michelle Flowers Welch, the agency over the past 20 years has been recognized with countless industry accolades for working with its client partners to create and deliver integrated communications programs that reach and respect diverse consumer segments. FCG is a member of IPREX, one of the world’s largest public relations networks, comprised of independent PR agencies in major markets worldwide, and the Alliance of Business Leaders and Entrepreneurs (ABLE). Learn more about and stay connected to FCG by visiting the agency’s website at www. flowerscomm.com or through BLOOM at www.flowerscomm. com/bloom.
location of a threatening and/ or frightening event, and the longer the exposure, the greater the likelihood of severe distress. Risk factors also include having relationships with the victims of disaster as well as the child’s ability to understand the nature of the traumatic event. Some children may not view a traumatic event as threatening because they are too developmentally immature to understand the potential danger, while others may report perceiving the event as extremely threatening and/or frightening. The adult and/or parental reactions to the traumatic event seem to influence children’s abilities to make sense of, understand and cope with tragic events. Organizations like the Association of Black Psychologists, the American Psychological Association, the National Association of Black Social Workers, and American Counseling Association have several web-based resources that parents can access in order to learn more about trauma and its impact on children. Listed below are some tips to help your children cope with trauma: Be age appropriate in the
Health From 3 incorporated into the National Health Interview Survey. The department also intends to convene a series of research roundtables with national experts to determine the best way to help the department collect data specific to gender identity. “The first step is to make sure we are asking the right questions,” Secretary Sebelius said. “Sound data collection takes careful planning to ensure that accurate and actionable data is being recorded.” The proposed standards for collection and reporting of data on race, ethnicity, sex, primary language and disability status in population health surveys are intended to help federal
Economy From 2 now it’s real people that are hurting because those we have entrusted to drive the bus, to run the economy, are either driving drunk or taking us on a wild ride that is not going to end well. When people like Sens. Kahn and Hann say that it’s “unfair” to take money from those who have “earned it,” they are ignoring the
We Care, Certified Section 3 Contractors. Note: Homeowners
ways that you expose children to information about the incident. For example, children under the age of 6 should not be exposed to TV videotape coverage of the tornado or other traumatic events, and the viewing time allowed older children should be limited. Talk About it. Allow children to express their feelings about what has happened and share your feelings with them. Don’t try to tell children to “be strong,” “be a big boy or girl” or “act tough.” In fact, it is very likely that a child’s former age-based behaviors (i.e., thumb-sucking, waking up in the middle of the night and bed wetting) may occur in response to the trauma. Do not punish or scold children for these regressive behaviors, but instead try to help them put their feelings into words. Reassure your children that their feelings and behaviors are normal responses to an abnormal situation. Reassure your children that they are now safe and that they are loved; try to hug them often, and spend extra time with your child, especially doing something fun or relaxing for both of you. Be honest with children about what has occurred and provide facts about what happened. Children usually know when you are “faking it.” Try to return to your family’s normal routine as much
as possible. This helps provide a sense of security and safety. Review, create and practice safety procedures so children will feel prepared the next time an emergency situation occurs. In fact, you can make it a game of running down to safety in “record” time. When they get there, have a treat of cookies and milk! Safety procedures should be applied to other conditions as well (fires, dealing with strangers) so that children can “learn” what to do when in danger. Talk with teachers, babysitters, daycare providers and others who may be with your children so they understand how your child has been affected. Ask them to watch for signs of repetitive play in which children re-enact all or part of the disaster. Although excessive re-enactment of a traumatic experience may be a warning sign, this behavior is an appropriate form of expression of emotions. Encourage a child who is not able to articulate their express their feelings through coloring, drawing, or painting. Seek support from a professional, should you, your child or a family become overwhelmed. Through a grant from the Minnesota Department of Human Services, Children’s Mental Health Division, the Minneapolis Urban League
BraVada Garrett-Akinsanya, Ph.D., L.P. is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who serves as the President of Brakins Consulting and Psychological Services, and Executive Director of the African American Child Wellness Institute. She has over 30 years of experience in the field psychology specializing in violence recovery and multicultural mental health and is recognized as a Board Certified Diplomat/Fellow, in African Centered/Black Psychology by the Association of Black Psychologists. Dr. GarrettAkinsanya warns that this column should in no way be construed as constituting a therapeutic relationship through counseling or advice. To forward a comment about this article or to make an appointment, please contact Dr. Garrett-Akinsanya by emailing her at: bravadaakinsanya@ hotmail.com or by telephone at 763-522-0100 or 612-302-3140.
agencies refine their population health surveys in ways that will help researchers better understand health disparities and zero in on effective strategies for eliminating them. The race and ethnicity standards, for example, will provide additional categories from which racial and ethnic differences in health care and outcomes can be examined in more detail, particularly among Asian, Hispanic/Latino and Pacific Islander populations. The disability standards would consist of six items that are already being used successfully in the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey. It is intended to improve researchers’ ability to monitor health disparities. “These new data standards, once finalized, will help us target our research and tailor stronger solutions for
underserved and minority communities,” added HHS Director of the Office of Minority Health, Dr. Garth Graham. “To fully understand and meet the needs of our communities, we must first thoroughly understand who we are serving.” In anticipation of these efforts, HHS, over the past year, has consulted with federal agencies, requested recommendations from the HHS Data Council, and held listening sessions with relevant community stakeholders. The public may submit comments for the draft minority data collection standards at www.regulations.gov under docket number HHSOMH-2011-0013. Public comments will be accepted until August 1. Information is also available at www. minorityhealth.hhs.gov/
section4302. Under Section 4302 of the Affordable Care Act, the Secretary is required to ensure that any federally conducted or supported health care or public health program, activity or survey collects and reports data, to the extent practicable, on race, ethnicity, sex, primary language and disability status, as well as other demographic data on health disparities as deemed appropriate by the Secretary. For more information on improving data collection to reduce health disparities please visit http://www.healthcare. gov/news/factsheets/ disparities06292011a.html For more information on improving data collection within the LGBT community visit http://www.healthcare. gov/news/factsheets/ lgbt06292011a.html
overwhelming evidence of the past 30 years. The wealthy have unfairly rigged the system through wage suppression, tax cuts or tax subsidies, and have literally taken the wages from the bottom 90 percent and lined their own pockets. I am not suggesting we shouldn’t have some differences in economic outcomes -- we want people to succeed and do well. But the current system is rigged and we need to come to grips with that so “we the people” can get back to living our lives and not worrying every night if we can
pay the bills tomorrow. Around the country, over 150 patriotic millionaires have come together to tell Congress to raise their taxes. Many wealthy business people in this state are well aware of the inequities in the system and are speaking out about their willingness to be taxed fairly. There are many good and thoughtful people running our companies. All of us though, to some degree, have become blinded by this “myth of the economy” and the power of the “free market.”
Our economy exists to serve us. Good business and economic policy will allow it to work for all of us again. It’s time we heard these voices even more clearly and push the legislature to act on their wisdom now.
has partnered with the African American Child Wellness Institute to provide emotional support to uninsured and under-insured children of African descent and their families. Please contact us at 612-302-3140 for an appointment to participate in the African American Child Wellness & Success program or for a referral to another agency or provider of your choice.
Manning, outreach director for Wealth for the Common Good. She is also a former CPA with Coopers & Lybrand and was director of corporate planning for Medtronic.
Northside and businesses should always verify license and insurance.
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Gray From 1 and other vital government assistance are already struggling before a government shutdown occurs. The even harsher reality for Minneapolis is that amongst people of color, even before a shutdown, the joblessness rate is three times as high, poverty is widespread, and education completion levels are dismal. Historically inadequate levels of funding and splintered stakeholder support are only ineffective band-aid approaches, and rarely resolve a challenge at its roots. When politics and ideology converge, too often those facing the most educational, social, economic, health and employment barriers are further derailed. A government shutdown only serves to further erode an already comprised standard of living; and in light of this year’s tornado, that certainly is
SAOIC From 1 The MN Dept. of Transportation aims to create a construction workforce that is at least elevenpercent minorities and sixpercent women. This helps the hundreds of women- and minority-owned companies that are certified in Minnesota to receive government highway and bridge contracts. In today’s economy, competition for government contracts is fierce, and small construction companies usually lack the front end cash needed to compete.
Edelman From 2 single-mother households has had a devastating effect on Black boys’ outcomes. But as Shawn pointed out in his story, although being a single mother to Black boys is full of challenges, his mother made the right choices that opened doors for him. All parents need to be encouraged and educated to make the same kinds of choices throughout their sons’—and daughters’—development. Many lessons came out of the symposium’s sessions, but above all, speaker after speaker reinforced how critical it is to intervene early. Dr. Iheoma Iruka, a researcher in the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, warned us, “we can’t wait for the gap to show up”—because by the time
Art From 1 in addition to creating avenues for her sought after pieces to be displayed in the backdrop of such establishments as the Como
Insight News • July 4 - July 10, 2011 • Page 11 the case in Minneapolis right now. Numerous individuals and families had their lives shattered in a split second, and face certain additional hardships when government shutdowns are allowed to occur. Perhaps as you ponder this, we have been able to sidestep this state budget meltdown, but looming in the horizon is yet another possible federal shutdown, and just like stacked dominoes, when one falls, they all come cascading down until all have toppled over. This can also be viewed as a “what if” as much of state money is federal pass-through dollars that support key programs and services; so indeed the financial health of state governments are intricately tied to the proceedings in Washington.
shutdowns occurs, non-profits are crippled as they attempt to maintain service delivery when severely cash strapped. This is a glaring “what if” which becomes a major challenge that must be resolved in the face of financial shutdown storms. What if medical assistance is
what-ifs is long. The most startling “what if” according to the website Politics in Minnesota is the fact that no one has assessed or has a clue about the impact of a 2011 widespread government shutdown. “One of the few things that’s clear at this point is that no one has ever tried
define critical services that are essential for protecting health and safety in the event of government shutdowns, a list that suggests curtailing horse racing and the state lottery, but also lists halting funds to schools and curtailing job training programs. In my view their definition of
“...looming in the horizon is yet another possible federal shutdown, and just like stacked dominoes, when one falls, they all come cascading down until all have toppled over.”
are but a few of the “what ifs” that immediately come to mind. Workforce Centers, parks, issuance of driver’s licenses, zoos, health inspections, human rights services, all stand to be impacted whenever a shutdown occurs. But what if the Governor and Legislature chose to work together with strategic vision? What if social and educational programs were funded at levels that could actually spur sustainable change? What if the effort to diminish the employment, education and health disparities in communities of color were adequately funded? What if the policymakers and number crunchers acknowledged and responded to the fact that until all segments of the community are elevated, overall economic vibrancy and social wellness are not assured? What if in addition to working to balance the state budget, more focus is placed on balancing the needs of the affluent with those most challenged? What if?
The Impact of What If? The Minneapolis Urban League (MUL), like some 3,000 nonprofit human development organizations in the state provide services that are paid for with state funds, and when government
paused and lifesaving medications cannot be purchased? What if mental health services are stopped for those who vacillate between a sound mind and sheer insanity? What if seniors are shut out of vital services and have no one to turn to for help? The list of
to catalog the range of services that could be affected in a broadscale government shutdown — much less model their economic and political impacts. That has not stopped insiders from trying to imagine the consequences.” The courts are tasked to
critical services seems flawed. Closing state prisons, veterans homes, and state mental health facilities; disruptions in paying hospitals, health care cost for low-income seniors and individuals with disabilities; a delay in unemployment checks,
With a lack of women in the field in the first place, these goals simply cannot be mandated on local governments. Mostly because many construction companies argue there are not enough qualified minority and women applicants in the workforce to meet such a guideline. As a result, construction contracts are often given to companies who minimally prove that they tried to hire more women and minorities. Alex Tittle, the Education Director of SAOIC, however, does not lay blame entirely on contractors. “One of the biggest problems,” he says, “is that women often don’t know where to go for this type
of training. It’s an issue of perception that we’re trying to change.” SAOIC is active in ensuring the success of its female students. Students are linked with vocational counselors, financial aid counselors, and job placement specialist who offer in-depth guidance and support through the process of training, graduation, and employment. The school offers courses that address personal issues and fears related to work. People living in lowincome neighborhoods often need additional assistance to overcome the frequent barriers of training and employment: a lack of transportation, childcare, or funds to pay for
training. SAOIC works to ensure that these barriers are addressed and that students can successfully complete their training and move into the job market. SAOIC’s Carpentry Dept. Manager, Gary Courtney, says that it is critical to offer personal finance classes due to the cyclical nature of the construction industry in Minnesota. “When it starts getting cold you’re going to get laid off,” he says. “We want to make sure our graduates have the financial skills to make it through the down times.” SAOIC also has winter training programs so students can continually prove their eligibility to employers.
SAOIC is accredited by the North Central Association Commission on Schools and licensed with the Minnesota Higher Education Offices. The school also offers childhood education programs and adult vocational training in the health care field. SAOIC has a number of relationships with hiring partners and contractors in the Twin Cities area. It has placed graduates into high-profile constructions projects such as the Central Corridor Light Rail Transit Project, the FBI Building, and the Whipple Building to name a few. Training people of color and women in the skills of the future multiplies
the effectiveness of every taxpayer dollar spent in the state. Investing in Minnesota’s infrastructure, a renewable energy future, and the education necessary to attain them creates a breakthrough opportunity for struggling communities in Minnesota. By building a renewable future for all of us, construction students are able to transform both their lives and the environment. There are free information sessions on campus every Wednesday at 10am (935 Olson Memorial Hwy Minneapolis, MN 55405) and every Thursday at 10am at the Plaza Latina (925 Payne Ave. St. Paul, MN 55130).
we measure achievement gaps in school, many Black boys are already behind. She explained that “the social and family disparities exist at birth and continue throughout. When you start at that low level you stay at that low level and the disparity continues.” Right now, too many people don’t even see our nation’s educational achievement gap as a problem that affects them. Many Americans think they lack any self interest in assuring a level playing field for other people’s children, especially poor and minority children. But Black, Hispanic, and other minority children will be the majority of the child population in 2019. As Tulane University professor Dr. Oscar Barbarin put it, Black boys often function like the proverbial canary in the coal mine, giving us our first indication of how well or how poorly our society’s systems are doing. When they are suffering, we should all be paying attention because this is the early warning for everyone—
and if we fix our educational system for Black boys, we will fix it for all children. ETS and CDF—working with many others—are taking steps to focus on this most vulnerable group in America. Our schools and communities are failing the 3.5 million Black boys under age nine in shocking ways. They face a toxic cocktail of poverty, illiteracy, racial disparities, violence, massive incarceration, and family breakdown. A Black boy born in 2001 has a one in three chance of going to prison in his lifetime. But ETS, CDF, and many of the leaders attending the symposium believe that by looking at the early years and providing a high quality continuum of care and high expectations for every child, we can impact and change the odds for young Black boys right now. Focusing on an evidencebased approach to education and early childhood development can change the trajectory for young Black boys and all underserved
children. CDF and ETS hope by identifying best practices, policies, and strategies that work it will be possible to rewrite the story for young Black boys and replace the cradle to prison pipeline with a pipeline to college, work, and a productive life. This symposium brought together researchers who have analyzed what works specifically for the 0-9 age group of Black boys with scholars and program leaders sharing research-based solutions and effective programs that show negative outcomes can be averted with local investment in local programs, community involvement, nutrition, and, at every stage, parental involvement. These kinds of proven results provide a guide for policy changes at the state and national level for we don’t have a moment or a child to waste. I hope we will follow this symposium with one on Black boys ages 9-13 and subsequent ones which get them
out of high school and into and through college. President Obama has called education the civil rights issue of our time. Now is the time for the next transforming freedom moment and movement—to set our children free from illiteracy, low expectations, and jobless, hopeless futures, preparing them to thrive and succeed in the lives God provided them. Children have only one childhood, and for them tomorrow is today. We need to act with urgency to narrow the achievement gap, stop the erosion of the hard-earned progress of the past 50 years, and move our nation towards true educational equality and excellence for all children. But this will not happen unless adults in all walks of our children’s lives step up and pick up our responsibilities to nurture and protect the next generation. As the symposium was documenting examples of what works to save children and money in the long haul, the very kinds
of critical programs and supports we know can close achievement gaps are on the chopping block in statehouses around the country and in our nation’s capital. Providing all children a healthy start, quality early childhood experiences, first rate schools with first rate teachers, and stimulating high quality out of school time programs must be the first order of national business in this quick fix, quarterly profit driven culture. Our most dangerous deficit is not the budget deficit—it’s our values deficit.
Park Conservatory. “My works are visual, vibrational, forms of love that are sealed with my astral body. It is my intention to give back to the healing of humanity and the planet through my work, my love, and my knowledge,” explains Dreisbach in her artist statement.
Her work is easily recognized; equipped with the Dreisbach stamp of chaotic swirls, daggered strokes, and layers of rich colors –abstract, yet each piece is well-defined by its title, some even coupled by words that further illustrate meaning. Even after seeing the beauty of one of her pieces, or
engaging in a conversation with this talented woman, it’s hard to see past the beauty of her spirit and actually consider the notion that she, too, is a survivor of an abusive situation. Quite like a writer writes what they know, Dreisbach paints her personal journey. There will be an opening night
reception July 14 from 6-9 pm at the Calhoun Building which will feature 20 of Dreisbach’s large paintings, all exemplifying her road to redemption during her nine years of trauma recovery. The show hopes to attract individuals of all walks of life who have been a “victim” of abuse, either past or present, or
those who know someone who has or is suffering from abuse. The gallery is open to the public July 15-17 and July 22-24, from 12-5pm, or by appointment. Admission is free. For more information on Gretchen Dreisbach visit: www.mnartists. org/Gretchen_Dreisbach
Marian Wright Edelman is President of the Children’s Defense Fund whose Leave No Child Behind® mission is to ensure every child a Healthy Start, a Head Start, a Fair Start, a Safe Start and a Moral Start in life and successful passage to adulthood with the help of caring families and communities. For more information go to www. childrensdefense.org.
Certified Section 3 Contractors. Note: Homeowners and businesses should always verify license and insurance.
We Care, Northside
Page 12 • July 4 - July 10, 2011 • Insight News
insightnews.com
We Care, Northside! WHO TO CALL. WHERE TO GO. Hotline - Information and referrals, assistance and support 763-746-5823 Oak Park - Social service referrals 612-377-7000 If you are a victim, FEMA: http://www.fema.gov/ • Red Cross Disaster Services 24-hour helpline — 612-871-7676
Renters
• 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)
NorthPoint Health and Wellness Center, Community cleanup efforts are being coordinated by The Salvation Army 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 NorthPoint 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 NorthPoint 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 NorthPoint Food Shelf, 1315 Penn Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55411. Donations by credit card can be made online at www.northpointhealth.org.
University of Minnesota Broadway Family Medicine
Physicians
at Emerson & 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.
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 Sayles-Belton Community Services Building in South Minneapolis, (411 E. 38th St., Minneapolis, MN 55409) 612827-5673 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 - 651296-8659 State Senator, District 58 Linda Higgins - 651-296-9246 County Commissioner District 2 Mark Stenglein - 612-7881235 US Congressman Keith Ellison - 612-522-1212 Legal Aid - 612-332-1441 University of Minnesota Urban Research and Outreach-Engagement Center (UROC) is assisting the relief and cleanup efforts that are 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 612626-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) 612-529-9267 Contact is Paul .Hours: 9:00am- 5:00pm.
several organizations. One is Urban Homeworks (immediate volunteer needs met; check Facebook page for updates).
Minneapolis Public Works and Park Board crews continue to work in north Minneapolis to make 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. Phyllis Wheatley Community Center is directly
contacting and visiting client families in the community, including those staying in area shelters to determine and address 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.
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
Oak Park Neighborhood Center--located at 1701
Oak Park Ave N on the North Side--had a steady stream of people 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 taxdeductible donation to assist in the recovery efforts, please call 612-377-7000 or visit www.puc-mn.org.
long-term recovery for North Minneapolis tornado survivors started last week. Families and 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.
The Prayer Center 821 1/2 West Broadway Minneapolis, 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. For more information, call 612302-1463. 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.
Emerge will be providing rides on a case-by-case basis. Please call them at 612-529-9267 to coordinate rides. Please have them provide the following: Name, requested time of pick up, and pick up 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 612-6733003. 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.