Lia Renee Dior Loving the skin she’s in MORE ON PAGE 5
July 8 - July 14, 2013
Vol. 40 No. 28 • The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com
Sex offender overload
By Harry Colbert, Jr. Contributing Writer Concerned residents of neighborhoods in north Minneapolis are calling on state, county and city officials to address the concentration of registered sex offenders in the community. As of July 2, there were 130 registered level 3 sex offenders residing in Minneapolis. Of that, 63 lived in north Minneapolis zip codes of 55405, 55411 and 55412. The heaviest concentration of level 3 offenders – 35 – dwelled in the 55411 zip code. In contrast, during the same time there was only one level 3 sex offender residing in the more affluent 55419 zip code of south Minneapolis. As of July 2, there were 32 registered level 3 sex offenders residing in all of St. Paul. Level 3 sex offenders are those considered most likely to re-offend. A community meeting held at the North Regional Library, 1315 Lowry Ave. N., presented by the Jordan Area Community Council, allowed residents to hear from state, county and city officials on what can be done to deconcentrate the number of sex offenders in the area. Harry Colbert, Jr.
Minneapolis City Councilman Don Samuels addresses concerned north Minneapolis residents regarding the high number of sex offenders residing in the area.
NORTH TURN TO 12
Trade Africa: Obama launches new partnerships THE WHITE HOUSE – President Obama announced the launch of Trade Africa, a new partnership between the United States and sub-Saharan Africa that seeks to increase internal and regional trade within Africa, and expand trade and economic ties between Africa, the United States, and other global markets.
The announcement came on July 1. Trade Africa will initially focus on the member states of the East African Community (EAC) -- Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda. The EAC is an economic success story, and represents a market with significant opportunity for
U.S. exports and investment. The five states of the EAC, with a population of more than 130 million people, have increasingly stable and probusiness regulations. They are home to promising local enterprises that are forming creative partnerships with multinational companies. And EAC countries are benefiting
from the emergence of an educated, globalized middle class. Intra-EAC trade has doubled in the past five years, and the region’s GDP has risen to more than $80 billion – quadrupling in only 10 years. In its initial phase, Trade Africa aims to double intra-
AFRICA TURN TO 2
President Barack Obama
Voting rights advocates Insight News wins NNPA Best Layout and Design face uphill battle By Freddie Allen, NNPA Washington Correspondent WASHINGTON (NNPA) – In the aftermath of the Supreme Court’s 5-4 ruling in Shelby County v. Holder, striking down section 4 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, civil rights organizations and voting rights advocates are preparing to battle against an expected the avalanche of new voting laws that threaten to wipe out the incredible gains ushered in the passage of the 1965 Voting Rights Act. The ruling effectively ended voting rights protections under section 5, forcing Congress to update the coverage formula
NNPA
Kimberlé Crenshaw says voting rights advocates must move beyond the status quo.
that required nine states and the counties and jurisdictions in six other states to preclear any changes to state and local voting laws with the Justice Department
MAAM Building Legacy Oral History Project
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or a federal court. Writing the majority opinion for the Supreme Court’s decision, Justice Anthony Kennedy acknowledged that “voting discrimination still exists,” but challenged the relevancy of the section 4 coverage formula originally crafted nearly 50 years ago. However, Congress has extended the law for times, saying it is still needed. Hours after the Supreme Court decision, state officials in Texas and South Carolina announced that they were moving forward with new voting regulations that civil rights groups say will disproportionately
VOTE TURN TO 12
The winning layout
NASHVILLE, TENN - Insight News took first place for the newspaper Layout and Design category in National Newspaper Publisher’s Association Merit Awards last week. “We have a great product and a great team producing a high quality journalism experience for our readers,” said Al McFarlane, Insight News editor. The St. Louis American won the top award for general excellence for the second consecutive year Thursday night at the National Newspaper Publishers Association’s (NNPA) Annual Merit Awards ceremony. For the first time, the NNPA also presented excellence awards for two smaller categories. Winning in Category B was the Houston Defender. The Miami Times won
in Category C. “There were many exceptional entries this year,” said Karl B. Rodney, Merit Awards Chairman and publisher of the Carib News. “We congratulate not only the winners, but other papers that exemplify excellence every week.” Mary Alice Thatch, publisher of the Wilmington Journal, was selected “Publisher of the Year” by her colleagues. Thatch was the driving force behind the NNPA’s successful national campaign win pardons of innocence for the Wilmington Ten. Her paper provided the lead coverage of the issue. The stories were then distributed to member newspapers by the NNPA News
NNPA TURN TO 12
Education
Business
Full Circle
Keeping students strong, safe, smart over summer
Is this your first job? How to take time off
Brief history of the Rondo Days celebration
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Page 2 • July 8 - July 14, 2013 • Insight News
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Building Legacy Oral History Project The Minnesota African American Museum (MAAM) announced the Building Legacy Oral History Project collaboration with Public Allies, a partner with Pillsbury United Communities. As a part of the project, five student leaders have been working since February, learning about Minnesota, its diverse African-American communities and its historians. The initial round of interviews consist of recorded interviews and videos of historians from the greater Twin Cities area. The students spent 12 Fridays receiving training from several professional experts from the community in interview skills and techniques, AfricanAmerican history, and media production.
The team had the opportunity to work with Ed Irwin at Youthprise, as he passed along his many media gifts to the team. The historians on the project include Marvin R. Anderson, Judge LaJune Lange (retired), Spike Moss, and the Rev. Noah and Hallie Smith. The final work will be presented on July 19, at 9 a.m. at MAAM, 1700 3rd Ave. S., Minneapolis. The public is invited to the showing. According to Coventry Cowens, founding board member and project chair, the importance of this project is clear. “This project supports the mission of MAAM, and being an authentic collector of Minnesota African-American history, it identifies many unsung African-
MAAM
Public Allies Community Service Project Team: Daniel Berhane, Elizabeth Farmer, John Vang, Brittany DeLeon, Amira Jama Americans that have contributed extensively in cultural, political, economic, and religious arenas that enhanced the development
of the state of Minnesota. The Building Legacy Project is dedicated to uncovering and preserving their legacy.”
Many African-American communities have few documents or artifacts that preserve and tell their stories of arrival, settlement, lifestyle and culture in Minnesota therefore, oral history is one of the best ways to preserve this important history and to ensure that it becomes part of Minnesota’s historical record. The interviews will be digitalized and serve as resources for educators and students and will be available on the MAAM website, www.maamcc.org. The site features people who comment with authority on their community’s composition, challenges, achievements and contribution to Minnesota’s cultural landscape. The mission of the Minnesota
African American Museum and Cultural Center is to increase understanding and appreciation for the contributions made by African-Americans in Minnesota. MAAM attempts to accomplish its mission through research, acquisition, presentation and celebration of pioneering AfricanAmericans in Minnesota and the Midwest. In 2008, the founding board members of MAAM acquired The Amos B. Coe mansion near downtown Minneapolis to fulfill its purpose and immediately began the acquisition process, capital campaign and subsequent renovations to the property. The mansion is located on the Minneapolis Avenue of the Arts.
We must build our greatest strength: Diversity By Benjamin Todd Jealous, President and CEO NAACP “For a country regarded as the paramount leader in a multicultural world, the United States has yet to embrace its own diversity; continuing failure to do so will have profound consequences for governance.” That quote came from a 1996 report by Allan E. Goodman, former executive dean at the Georgetown School of Foreign Service. For decades, American leaders in business, education and economics have lamented the
Africa From 1 regional trade in the EAC, increase EAC exports to the United States by 40 percent, reduce by 15 percent the average time needed to import or export a container from the
wide racial and ethnic gaps in our education system. Last week’s Supreme Court ruling on affirmative action reminded us that we have a long way to go. In the case of Fisher v. Texas, the Supreme Court ruled on the constitutionality of the University of Texas’ admissions policy. The university currently allows admissions officers to consider an applicant’s race among a number of other qualifying factors. The Court voted to send the case back to a lower court of appeals. In doing so, they reaffirmed the use of race in admissions, and the importance of educational diversity in the 21st century.
The decision in Fisher upheld an important precedent set in the 2003 case of Gruttinger v. Bollinger. In that case, Justice Sandra Day O’Connor refuted the idea that our society had advanced beyond affirmative action. She argued that the need for “crossracial understanding” was still necessary to break down racial stereotypes, and that “student body diversity is a compelling state interest.” Justice O’Connor’s argument was based on sound social research. In her words, “major American businesses have made clear that the skills needed in today’s increasingly global marketplace can only be developed through exposure to
widely diverse people, cultures, ideas, and viewpoints.” Like Allan Goodman, Justice O’Connor also saw diversity as a national interest. This is even truer today. When Goodman wrote about the multicultural world in 1996, only one out of every thirteen Americans had access to the Internet. Google, Twitter and Facebook were still rough ideas scribbled in students’ sketchpads. Seventeen years later, technological advances in communications, travel and trade have given rise to a new era of globalization. Leaders in business and government need to know how to work with people of vastly different races, cultures and
perspectives. We will be stronger as a nation if we embrace our growing diversity and ensure that the pathways to leadership remain wide open. Numerous studies reveal that mere interaction is the best way to avoid intergroup conflict. Sociologists have even found that diversity increases opportunities for creativity. In light of the Supreme Court’s decision, America’s educational institutions should recommit to fair and thoughtful ways to foster diversity. In the coming months, the NAACP will work with universities, policymakers, and the business community to see that qualified students from a
diversity of backgrounds get a close look and a fair shot at admission to top schools. Justice O’Connor wrote that “effective participation by members of all racial and ethnic groups in the civic life of our Nation is essential if the dream of one Nation, indivisible, is to be realized.” Our country’s pledge is to be one nation, and our country’s challenge is to lead a global economy that is increasingly flat. If America is to maintain its role as a moral and economic leader in the 21st century, we must build on our greatest strength: diversity.
ports of Mombasa or Dar es Salaam to land-locked Burundi and Rwanda in the EAC’s interior, and decrease by 30 percent the average time a truck takes to transit selected borders. The United States also hopes to expand its collaboration with other regional economic communities in Africa,
including in cooperation with other partner nations. Increasing trade between the United States and Africa will be the focus of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum in Addis Ababa on August 9 - 13. The Forum will celebrate the progress achieved through AGOA since it was signed into
law in 2000, and will help pave the way to AGOA’s renewal by 2015.
and Investment Partnership (TIP) announced in June 2012. Activities underway include: Exploration of a U.S.-EAC Investment Treaty to contribute to a more attractive investment environment; Launch of negotiations on a Trade Facilitation Agreement and expansion of the TIP to include regulatory issues that
affect the competitiveness of EAC regional and global trade (including with the United States), particularly the development of product standards, and regulatory systems related to food safety and plant and animal health; Establishment of a new
Increase U.S.-EAC Trade and Investment Trade Africa will help mobilize resources to support increased U.S.-EAC trade and investment, building upon the U.S.-EAC Trade
Ben Jealous is president/CEO of the NAACP.
AFRICA TURN TO 4
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Insight News • July 8 - July 14, 2013 • Page 3
EDUCATION Keeping students strong, safe, and smart over summer Building Creative Capital By Bernadeia H. Johnson MPS Superintendent Summer has finally arrived and Minneapolis Public Schools is pleased to again team up with community organizations for the Summer Strong partnership, thereby providing key educational programs and
resources for students over the summer. We want our students to stay strong, safe and smart during the summer months when they are not in school. Summer Strong offers access to basic needs, summer school, as well as activities and events at local parks, libraries and other community sites. Events include radio station KBEM/Jazz88’s concerts in the park. The concerts will take place from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at parks across the city on Wednesday afternoons. You can find a schedule at mpls.
k12.mn.us/partner_events. html. Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board will host its safety camp for students entering the third, fourth and fifth grades, from August 6 to 8 at Theodore Wirth Park. Police officers and firefighters serve as counselors to the youth, teaching them personal and social safety skills in a fun and friendly environment. Find more information at minneapolisparks.org. For families that love books, the Hennepin County Library offers many ways
for students of all ages to win books, participate in fun programs and join a book club. Minneapolis Central Library hosts a photo pop-up book class for students entering grades 3 through 5 to learn how to use photography to illustrate stories. More information is available at mpls.k12.mn.us/ partner_events.html. Our summer school program is underway and our students are finding great opportunities to catch up on their schoolwork and also speed ahead. MPS summer school provides a strong and engaging
academic program that includes classroom time and field trips for students who qualify with free transportation and great food. Speaking of great food, MPS unveiled its brand new food truck as part of the Summer School launch a couple of weeks ago. The food truck will visit various sites across the city, which will enable MPS to provide more children with free breakfast, lunch and dinner during the summer. Follow the MPS food truck at http:// summerlunchmap.2harvest. org/.
Thank you again to our Summer Strong partners including the City of Minneapolis, the Minneapolis Police Department, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, Hennepin County Sheriff’s Department, Hennepin County Attorney’s Office, Hennepin County Library, United Way 2-1-1 and the Minneapolis Youth Coordinating Board. Resource guides are available at schools, parks, libraries, and other community locations and online at www.summerstrong.org.
Maho Aikawa selected Metropolitan State University outstanding student Maho Aikawa has been selected spring semester outstanding graduate student in Metropolitan State University’s College of Health, Community and Professional Studies. Aikawa was one of about 1,030 students receiving bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees April 29 at the university’s 92nd commencement exercises in Saint Paul. Aikawa’s graduate degree is in psychology. Her master’s thesis examined the well-being of immigrants and refugees, focusing on the social support they sought. “So far, I’ve found that immigrants who seek social support have higher well being than those who don’t,� said Aikawa, who lives in Minneapolis. “But what was interesting is that the longer they stay in the United States, the less they seek social support.� Aikawa regularly participated in a community garden jointly operated by Metropolitan State and Inver
Metropolitan State University President Sue K. Hammersmith and Maho Aikawa
MSU
Hills Community College that supplied vegetables for Saint Paul’s East Side residents and others. The 24-year-old Miyakonojo, Japan, native was also active with the East African Women’s Center of Minnesota, assisting in the English as a Second Language and early child-care programs. A member of the Minnesota Psychology Association, the Society for Personality and Social Psychology and the Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues, Aikawa graduated from Tsuda University in Tokyo in 2011. Her degree was in international and cultural studies. She previously was a college exchange student in Minnesota. During the 20092010 academic year, Aikawa attended Minnesota State University-Moorhead. Her future plans include pursuing a doctoral degree in public health. Ultimately, Aikawa hopes to study the health and well being of minorities.
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BUSINESS Is this your first job? How to take time off Plan Your Career By Julie Desmond julie@insightnews.com Arene was one month into her first summer job when her parents told her that they were all going out of town for the weekend. “But I’m scheduled to work,” she told them.
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 Culture and Education Editor Irma McClaurin Director of Content & Production Patricia Weaver Sr. Content & Production Coordinator Ben Williams Production Intern Sunny Thongthi Distribution/Facilities Manager Jamal Mohamed Receptionist Lue B. Lampley Contributing Writers Cordie Aziz Harry Colbert, Jr. Julie Desmond Fred Easter Timothy Houston Alaina L. Lewis Darren Moore Alysha Price Photography Suluki Fardan Michele Spaise 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)
“You’ll have to find someone to cover,” they explained. So she tried. Two hours into the road trip, she was frantically typing into her phone and commented that she couldn’t get anyone to take her shift. “I’m sure your manager will figure it out,” her parents said. The puzzled look on Arene’s face told her parents there was a disconnect. Arene hadn’t talked to her manager. People who have experience in summer jobs, internships and careers assume everyone knows what they know about taking time off. When it’s a first job, however, it is helpful to have things spelled out. That’s how the rest of us learned, after all.
So, here are a few pointers on taking time off for those just getting started in the working world. First, don’t. Do not take time off because you were out late last night, have a party to get ready for or just don’t want to miss out on the fun your friends seem to be having. Even in a single summer, there will be events you will want or need to attend (a college orientation, a family reunion, the concert of the century). Save your time off for these big moments. Workers who consistently show up for work are more likely to get the time off when it really matters.
Second, tell your manager first, in person. And be honest. Explain, my mom and dad planned this trip and I have to go along. Explain, the concert of the century is three weeks from Friday and I really want to attend. Then, ask permission. “Is it possible to take the day off three weeks from Friday?” You are giving as much notice as possible, allowing your manager time to figure out how to cover your shift. After you ask permission, and if your manager agrees, say thank you, of course, and then ask if you should make a note anywhere. People who manage people are busy and often
doing several things at once. Your request can be lost in the shuffle if it isn’t written down. If the manager says, “No, I’ll remember,” then help yourself out by sending a quick text or email saying, “Thanks for the time off on August 3rd. I really appreciate it.” Later, when the manager says she never agreed to give you the time off, you will have a written record of the conversation, and so will she. Trust me, this small gesture can go a long way throughout your career. Finally, ask if the manager would like you to find someone to cover. If he says yes, then do your best, starting immediately.
If you don’t have luck, let him know about your progress. After Arene let her manager in on her problem, things got easier for her. The manager knew someone who was asking for extra hours and was able to easily cover the gap. Asking for time off can cause anxiety for workers at any stage in a career, but doing it right and not very often can make the process smooth and painless. Julie Desmond is IT Recruiting Manager for George Konik Associates. Looking for work? Send your resume to Julie at jdesmond@georgekonik.com.
Moving beyond overhead myth FUNdraising Good Times
By Mel and Pearl Shaw A public discussion is stirring on the topic of nonprofit overhead and the extent to which overhead costs should influence giving. The three leading sources of information about nonprofits recently issued a call to action asking individual and institutional donors to stop using “overhead” as the measure of a nonprofit’s success. GuideStar, Charity Navigator, and BBB Wise Giving Alliance have issued a call to donors to move beyond the “Overhead Myth.” Here’s the background. Nonprofits are required to report administrative costs and fundraising costs when they file their 990 form with the IRS. These are costs that are not directly related to nonprofit services or programs. Administrative costs include things such as human resources and accounting personnel, information technology and management systems. Fundraising costs include staff time and materials dedicated to donor development, and fundraising events among others. Together these represent “overhead.” Some people believe that low overhead is a sign of an effective and well run nonprofit. We join GuideStar, Charity Navigator, and BBB Wise Giving Alliance and others in taking a different stance. Long time readers know that we believe “impact” is the measure of a nonprofit. And, for many
Africa From 2 U.S.–EAC Commercial Dialogue to bring the private sector together with policy makers and increase opportunities for trade and
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organizations and institutions high impact requires an investment in what we refer to as “capacity and infrastructure” or “overhead.” Nonprofits need to invest in technology and talented staff. They need to compensate employees with competitive salaries and benefits and provide them with the tools they need to best deliver on their mission and vision. Overhead ratios do not communicate effectiveness. Emphasizing these ratios as a basis for funding and giving decisions has led to what the
Stanford Social Innovation Review has called the The Nonprofit Starvation Cycle and what the Center on Nonprofits and Philanthropy, Urban Institute & Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University refers to as Getting What We Pay For: Low Overhead Limits Nonprofit Effectiveness. Overhead costs and ratios may vary from year to year, and from institution to institution. There are always new ways to consider minimizing costs, but a “race to the bottom” is not what the nonprofit sector needs. Consider looking at
impact instead. Encourage the nonprofits you believe in to participate in Charting Impact (www.ChartingImpact. org). Prepare to answer these five questions: What is your organization aiming to accomplish? What are your strategies for making this happen? What are your organization’s capabilities for doing this? How will your organization know if you are making progress? What have and haven’t you accomplished so far? If you are concerned about how donated funds are used by a nonprofit you support, take
the time to review their annual report, their 990 form (posted online at www.Guidestar. org), and ask to speak with management. Looking at overhead costs won’t answer your questions. Learn more at www. overheadmyth.com.
investment; Transformation of the U.S.–Africa Trade Hubs into U.S. Trade and Investment Centers to provide information, advisory services, and risk mitigation and financing to encourage linkages between U.S. and East African investors and exporters; and,
Advancing the “Doing Business in Africa” campaign to encourage U.S. businesses to take advantage of growing trade and investment opportunities and to promote trade missions, reverse trade missions, trade shows, and business-tobusiness matchmaking in key sectors.
The United States is also supporting the EAC’s efforts to advance regional integration, through bilateral and regional trade facilitation and a new partnership with TradeMark East Africa, with specific focus on: Reducing barriers at borders, including by moving to single border crossings and implementing customs modernization programs using
innovative technologies that allow customs services to communicate with each other; Supporting the transition to a single EAC customs and revenue sharing authority; and, Addressing barriers to transit that constrain the region’s competitiveness, including by reducing the number of roadblocks and the amount of time spent and fees paid to move products from the ports to neighboring borders.
Support EAC Integration
Regional
July 13–August 4 “Pay What You Can” Saturday, July 20, 7pm
Postmaster: Send address changes to McFarlane Media Interests, Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55411.
www.SteppingStoneTheatre.org 55 Victoria Street North | Saint Paul | 651-225-9265
Copyright 2013 – Mel and Pearl Shaw Mel and Pearl Shaw are the authors of “Prerequisites for Fundraising Success.” They position nonprofits for fundraising success. Visit them at www.saadandshaw.com.
Increase EAC Trade Competitiveness The United States will also form public-private partnerships with East African and U.S. industries and trade associations to stimulate greater trade in goods under the African Growth and Opportunity Act and, specifically, to: Build the capacity of private sector associations in Africa to provide sustainable business services and promote investment in key growth sectors in Africa, including agriculture, health, clean energy, environment and traderelated infrastructure; Formalize partnerships between American and African associations to increase trade through collaboration on trade shows and business-tobusiness matchmaking; Work with governments and National Export Associations to develop export strategies and establish export resource centers across the EAC to provide sustainable services for firms looking to export under AGOA.
Society influences what I write about. Society, life struggles – that’s my inspiration
By Harry Colbert, Jr. Contributing Writer
Lia Renee Dior
Loving the skin she’s in
MORE
• Bullock and McCarthy unlikely partners in good cop, -bad cop comedy
One of the most requested songs on 89.9 KMOJ-FM isn’t from established icons such as Beyoncé, Kelly Roland or Robin Thicke – it’s a song from an artist living right here in south Minneapolis. The song title lives up to its name – “Beautiful.” The artist is 23-year-old songstress, Lia Renee Dior. And judging from the number of calls coming into the only radio station in the area regularly playing R&B/soul/neosoul, Dior might just be the next big Minneapolis export. Judging from her poise on stage, Dior may not be next – she may be now. With her debut album “Love Child,” Dior hopes not only to entertain, but also to inspire. “‘Love Child’ is about me and the lessons I’ve learned in discovering who I am and loving who I am,” said Dior. “And with the song, ‘Beautiful,’ it’s about how do we define beauty, not in a physical sense, but mentally. That’s why I ask the question (in the hook), ‘what is beautiful.’ In some sort of way we are all beautiful.” Dior, who went to North Community High School
and is a 2008 graduate of Thomas Edison High School, said she’s been singing since she was 3 years old and singing professionally for the past four years, when she linked up with area hip-hoppers, Swag House and later with The Moguls. Though still affiliated with some of the members of the two camps, Dior decided to go her own way this past year and put out her own project, which she describes and hip-hop inspired, conscious neosoul. Every song on “Love Child” was written by Dior, with production from Major the General, DJ Cooley and Steven Butler. “Society influences what I write about. Society, life struggles – that’s my inspiration,” said Dior. “I have a message to give. I’m here to deliver a message.” Though young in her career, Dior has already shared the stage with industry heavyweights Mint Condition and showcased at the pivotal Jack the Rapper music convention in Atlanta. “It’s a blessing to be able
• Hart wows sold-out garden in concert tour finale
to be on stage with these people,” said Dior, speaking specifically of Mint. “I’m almost too comfortable. It’s almost like family when you are a Minnesota artist. They don’t treat you like (a lesser artist) because they’re above you – it’s family.” Looking to the near and distant future, Dior will be performing July 21 at Rondo Days in St. Paul, and is already working on her next project, titled “Growing Pains.” “(‘Growing Pains’) is a more mature project,” said Dior, who also plays drums and violin. “I don’t want to stay stagnant, and I want the people to grow with me. I’m still growing. When you stop growing, you stop living. The music and the message I have are very important. I want my fans to be happy and love who they are.” “Love Child” is available online at iTunes, Amazon, CD Baby and during Dior’s performances about town. For performance and other information, visits Dior’s site at www. liareneedior.com.
• Snapshots
Page 6 • July 8 - July 14, 2013 • Aesthetically Speaking
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Twentieth Century FOX
Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy
Bullock and McCarthy unlikely partners in good cop-bad cop comedy By Kam Williams FBI Agent Sarah Ashburn (Sandra Bullock) has been dispatched to Boston where she’s assigned to apprehend a ruthless drug kingpin. However, her boss is concerned about the uptight, 12-year veteran’s horrible habit
of rubbing her relatively-relaxed colleagues the wrong way. Sure enough, upon arriving in Beantown, the proper Yale grad manages to irritate her new partner even before they’re formally introduced, when the two have a spat over a spot in a police precinct parking lot. Sarah subsequently meets foulmouthed Shannon Mullins (Melissa McCarthy), a hardnosed city cop working a beat on a rough side of town. They still grudgingly agree to investigate the narcotics case together, and it doesn’t take long for their contrasting law enforcement styles to generate a lot of friction. Nerdy Sarah tends to play it by the book while Dirty Harry-like Shannon could care less about following the rules or respecting suspects’ rights. Nevertheless, they’re soon following a trail of clues that takes them from a seedy nightclub to a rundown
tenement to an abandoned warehouse along the waterfront. So unfolds “The Heat”, a good cop-bad cop comedy reuniting director Paul Feig with Melissa McCarthy, the relentlessly-raunchy scenestealer who upstaged the rest of the ensemble in his equallyhilarious “Bridesmaids”. Here, McCarthy holds her own in a lead role opposite Sandra Bullock, with the pair generating just the right chemistry as terminally-mismatched partners. Though the talented supporting cast includes Marlon Wayans, Michael Rapaport and Jane Curtin, make no mistake, this flick is all about the witty repartee between the protagonists. Typical is this salty exchange coming in close quarters, where Sarah’s complaint “Your breast is invading my space.” is met by Shannon’s fair warning to “Keep
your finger off my areola.” In another scene, Sarah blushes while Shannon plays a game of Russian roulette with a pistol pointed directly at a perp’s gonads. Despite all the bawdy jokes, “The Heat” is grounded by a sensitive storyline that actually has you investing emotionally in the characters. So, don’t be surprised to shed a few tears as the curtain comes down on this two-fisted tale of female empowerment about a pair of polar-opposite lady lawmen who eventually set aside their differences to get their man while forging an enduring friendship worthy of a sequel.
Excellent (4 stars) Rated R for violence, crude humor and pervasive profanity Running time: 117 minutes Distributor: 20th Century Fox
Green Central partnering with local artist to create large-scale mural Award-winning local artist Greta McLain will bring hundreds of Richard R. Green Central
Park School students and neighborhood residents together for the Central Identity Project
(CIP), a series of workshops and forums to design, paint and install a 2,000-square-foot mural that will transform the exterior of Green Central School, located at 3416 4th Ave. S. McLain, who has installed murals on buildings throughout the Twin Cities and internationally, will use a mural technique called the parachute cloth method that allows for greater community participation by children, elders, residents with disabilities and others traditionally left out of projects like these due to their
physical limitations. Rather than painting directly on the wall, the mural design is transferred onto a lightweight synthetic material that is partitioned into various sections and painted at community art workshops. When all panels are painted, the mural is installed on the building creating a spectacular and long-lasting work of art for the community. The technique has never been used in a Minneapolis community mural project.
MURAL TURN TO 7
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Aesthetically Speaking • July 8 - July 14, 2013 • Page 7
Hart wows sold-out garden in concert tour finale By Kam Williams Move over Chris Rock, Eddie Murphy, Steve Harvey and Katt Williams, the hottest black comic around right now is Kevin Hart. The diminutive, 5’ 2” funnyman has skyrocketed to the heights of showbiz ladder lately, making myriad memorable performances on both TV and film. This year on TV alone, he’s hosted “Saturday Night Live” and launched a sitcom spoofing reality shows called “Real Husbands of Hollywood.” On the big screen, he can currently be caught in the ensemble comedy “This Is the End,” which comes close on the heels of hits like “Think Like a Man” and “The Five-Year Engagement.” “Kevin Hart: Let Me Explain” is a concert flick featuring the best of his recent concert tour across North America and Europe, with stops at ports-ofcall as far afield as Vancouver, Toronto, Oslo, Copenhagen and Amsterdam and Birmingham, England. The film opens at a Mix and Mingle party where a frustrated Kevin finds himself accused of letting success go to his head. That confrontation eventually dissolves into a series of post concert shots all over the world of fawning foreign fans with thick accents gushing about how much they enjoyed his performance. But the bulk of the material was captured on camera in front of a standing room only crowd at a sold-out Madison Square Garden, the final stop on the circuit.
Mural From 6 “The project provides a positive outlet for youth and I believe it will serve as a nexus to train youth and residents
Kevin’s irreverent brand of observational humor involves opening up his private life for public scrutiny. Employing the recurring theme, “Don’t judge me, let me explain,” he reflects upon subjects ranging from being happily-divorced (“I cheated. Do I regret it? No!”), to whether he likes dark-skinned girls (Yes), to humping a bean bag while on Ecstasy, to dating advice (“The only thing you don’t want in your house is a female who doesn’t trust you.”). Be forewarned, Kevin curses liberally and gratuitously sprinkles in the N-word occasionally for further dramatic effect. The personal anecdotes he relates are routinely engaging with satisfying payoffs, the only disappointment being that the picture only lasts less than an hour if you subtract all the time devoted to audience reaction shots. Nevertheless, you know a comedian has indeed arrived when his punch lines are periodically punctuated by pyrotechnics on stage. And you know he’s still humble enough to remember where he came from when tears can be seen streaming down his face as he takes bows at Madison Square Garden.
Very Good (3 stars) Rated R for sexuality, ethnic slurs and pervasive profanity Running time: 75 minutes Distributor: Summit Entertainment in using art as a vehicle to address community issues,” said McLain. “The mural will reflect the history and culture of the school and neighborhood and will promote a positive Central neighborhood identity.” Local youth between the ages of 12 and 19 are invited
Summit Entertainment
Kevin Hart to join open paint workshops on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. in room 411 of Green Central. Youth will help plan the final mural design, help prepare the mural and learn basic to advanced painting skills while working
on portions of the mural. A permission slip can be found at www.centralidentityproject. blogspot.com/2013/06/middleand-high-school-youth-comepaint.html. CIP is a Minneapolis Community Education program. In addition to the youth
workshops, CIP will host 10 community painting days around the Central neighborhood where community members are invited to talk, eat, dance and paint on the mural panels that will culminate in the largest mural in the Central neighborhood. The first community paint workshop
is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Thursday, July 11 at the Youth Farm’s Bahai Farm located at 3645 Chicago Ave. S. For more information and ways to contribute to the project, visit www.centralidentityproject. blogspot.com.
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Page 8 • July 8 - July 14, 2013 • Aesthetically Speaking
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Snapshots
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In a weekend full of events, Aesthetically Speaking photogs were able to catch a couple of events, including #MPLS (formerly BoomBox) performing at the Dakota Jazz Club and the Whiteout Affair at Mill City Nights. Here are few scenes from the cameras’ lenses.
“CLYBOURNE PARK IS A PLAY EVERYONE SHOULD SEE.” – MinnPost.com
1) (Left to right) Regina Mhiripiri, Denise Williams and Melissa Essien enjoying #MPLS at the Dakota Jazz Club. 2) Beatrice Joseph feeling the vibe at the Dakota Jazz Club during the late night show of #MPLS. 3) Hypnotizing! The ladies of Hpnotiq (Dekisa Okoi, Yuri Gayton and Brittany Alise) at the Whiteout Affair at Mill City Nights. 4) Marklyn Johnson kickin’ it at the Whiteout Affair at Mill City Nights. 5) Bianca Dennie and Ina Carter flash smiles for the camera at the Whiteout Affair at Mill City Nights.
by
BRUCE
NORRIS
directed by
LISA
PETERSON
6) Strawberry fields forever: Anna Gonzales and Carlos Gonzales during the Whiteout Affair at Mill City Nights. 7) Brandy Lee looking lovely at the Whiteout Affair at Mill City Nights. Don’t trip, that’s just water in her cup!
Now – August 4, 2013 McGUIRE PROSCENIUM STAGE 612.377.2224
GUTHRIETHEATER.ORG
SPONSORED BY BELL STATE
BANK AND TRUST
PHOTO (LEFT): KATHRYN MEISLE AND SHÁ CAGE; (RIGHT): ANSA AKYEA, EMILY GUNYOU HALAAS AND JIM LICHTSCHEIDL (MICHAEL BROSILOW)
8) Looking lovely: Miranda Holman posing for the camera during the Whiteout Affair at Mill City Nights.
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Insight News • July 8 - July 14, 2013 • Page 9
FULL CIRCLE Brief history of the Rondo Days celebration Man Talk
By Timothy Houston As a people, we have learned to turn lemon into lemonade. Every day, we experience events that would break the spirit of ordinary people, but as a resilient people, we have managed to find the silver lining. Time and time again we have found positive responses to adversity. The annual Rondo Days celebration is a testament of our resilience. Here is a little history of the Rondo Days celebration. According to the Rondo
Days website, In the 1930s, Rondo Avenue was at the heart of Saint Paul, MN’s largest Black neighborhood. AfricanAmericans whose families had lived in Minnesota for decades and others who were just arriving from the South made up a vibrant, vital community that was in many ways independent of the white society around it. The construction of I-94 in the 1960s shattered this tight-knit community, displaced thousands of African-Americans into a racially segregated city and a discriminatory housing market, and erased a now-legendary neighborhood. The website further stated that in 1982, Marvin “Roger” Anderson and Floyd Smaller came up with an idea to bring back a sense of community, stability, and neighborhood
The festival plays a critical role in educating our youth on the history of our community
values of the old Rondo community. It was their intent to create an organization dedicated to sharing the contributions of African Americans and the rich cultural history of the Rondo community to the City of
Saint Paul, and the great State of Minnesota; and to bring people together to celebrate the positive growth and diversity of our beloved Rondo community. As the founders, their hard work and dedication to
the memory of the Rondo community resulted in the formation of the “Rondo Avenue, Inc.” organization and the Rondo Days Festival. The Rondo Day Festival celebrates the best and brightest of Minnesota’s African-American stories, achievements and culture. It reunites a dispersed people, welcomes new neighbors and encourages everyone to be mindful of the extent to which neighborhoods nourish our souls. Today, Rondo Avenue, Inc. is a community based 501(c) 3 organization that sponsors a number of community events and workshops that seek to preserve Rondo’s rich heritage for future generations while rebuilding and strengthening present community relationships. The Festival plays a critical role in educating
our youth on the history of our community. It is that time again to join with others in our community during the Rondo Days celebration. Although the construction of I-94 radically changed the landscape of the neighborhood, the community of Rondo still exists and its persistence and growth are celebrated through events like Rondo Days and the Jazz Festival. Come on out on this Saturday and enjoy the lemonade of our resilience. Timothy Houston is an author, minister, and motivational speaker who is committed to guiding positive life changes in families and communities. To get copies of his books, for questions, comments or more information, go to www. tlhouston.com.
Community celebrates life of Bishop William A. Watson, III The life of Bishop William A. Watson, III to be celebrated July 6 The Twin Cities lost a prominent member of its religious community on June 27 when Bishop William A. Watson, III of Revelation Christian Center International passed away unexpectedly. He was 53. Bishop Watson was born on April 14, 1960 in Banning, Calif. to William A. Watson, Jr. and Ruth McGriff Watson. He grew up in San Bernardino, Calif., graduating from Pacific High School in 1978. Bishop Watson attended Howard University in Washington, D.C., where he graduated in 1982 with degrees in political science and criminal justice. Upon graduation, Bishop Watson entered the field of law enforcement, becoming a Special Agent in the U.S. Secret Service, and served as director of security services at various colleges and universities, including the Claremont Colleges, Bethel University and the University of Minnesota Hospitals and Clinics. Bishop Watson was called to the ministry at the age of 11, and baptized his first believer at the age of eight. From there,
Bishop William A. Watson his ministerial path included postgraduate studies at Eastern Theological Seminary, Fuller Theological Seminary, Bethel Seminary and ministerial
appointments as youth minister, Temple Baptist Church in San Bernardino; associate pastor, Omega Industries in Philadelphia; associate minister,
Sunshine Missionary Baptist Church, Washington, D.C.; youth pastor, Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, Pomona, Calif.; and associate pastor, Bethesda Baptist Church in San Bernardino. Bishop Watson later joined Macedonia Baptist Church in Minneapolis as an associate minister, and became its senior pastor in 1995. In December of 2006, Bishop Watson left Macedonia, becoming founder and senior pastor of Revelation Christian Center, International, in St. Paul, as well as Apolistic Overseer of New Genesis Baptist Church in Minneapolis and Fruit of the Spirit Christian Center in Costa Rica. Calling himself “an urban pastor,” whose “heart beats to the rhythm of the inner-city,” Bishop Watson was always an involved member of the Twin Cities community, serving as a board member or volunteer with organizations including the Illusion Theater, Habitat for Humanity, AMICUS, ReArmor Homes, Phyllis Wheatley Community Center and the Minnesota Council on Black Minnesotans.
Bishop Watson was a voracious reader who loved good coffee, watching Saturday morning cartoons, adding to his collections of watches and African artifacts, listening to Car Talk on Minnesota Public Radio and collecting comic books. Bishop Watson also enjoyed good pipe tobacco, fine cigars, and great conversation at The Perfect Ash.
The bishop is preceded in death by parents. He is survived by his daughter, Sarah Carthen Watson – a junior at Northwestern University in Chicago, siblings Julius and Satyra Watson, his uncle, the Reverend William Davis, and several nieces, nephews and godchildren. He will be greatly missed by family, friends and the Twin Cities community.
Page 10 • July 8 - July 14, 2013 • Insight News
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Karamu Community Forum moves to Camphor Methodist By Mahmoud El-Kati Karamu, the community wide forum , which is designed to explore the meaning of the 150th anniversary
of the Emancipation Proclamation, which was issued by president Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863. The proclamation that impacted the people of Minneapolis / St. Paul and elsewhere across the nation, and became
known as Juneteenth. The purpose of this series, running monthly for the rest of the year is to gain real understanding of this most significant document. Along with the Declaration of Independence of
1776, the writing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787, the proclamation declared the enslaved American population Free, ranks as the greatest political documents in the modern world. The Karamu
Community Calendar Send Community Calendar information to us by email: info@ insightnews.com, by fax: 612.588.2031, by phone:( 612)5881313 or by mail: 1815 Bryant Ave. N. Minneapolis, MN 55411. Free or low cost events preferred.
day outdoor art fair in Saint Paul. It is located on the beautiful green triangular lawn at Cleveland and Randolph Avenues on the Saint Paul campus of St. Catherine University. The art fair showcases 100 local artists from the upper Midwest.
EVENTS FREE SUMMER MEALS thru Aug. 23 Free Summer Meals for youth age 18 and under at MASJID AN-NUR, 1729 LYNDALE AVE. N. (across from Cub Foods). Schedule is as follow: BREAKFAST: 8am - 10:30am, June 17 – Aug. 23 (No Service 7/4, 5, 8/7,8,9); LUNCH: 11:30am – 2pm (Fridays1pm), June 17 – July 3 and Aug. 12 – Aug. 24; DINNER: 8:30pm – 10:00pm, July 9 thru Aug. 6. Kelsey Sutton, Some Quiet Place Publication Party July 12 Debut YA author Kelsey Sutton is launching her new book at Red Balloon on Friday, July 12, 6:30 pm. In Some Quiet Place, Elizabeth Caldwell doesn’t feel emotions . . . she sees them in human form. One emotion, Fear, is obsessed with finding the answer to one question: What happened to Elizabeth to make her this way? Elizabeth’s very survival depends on discovering the truth about herself. Celebrate this stunning debut and join us for a great discussion, book signing, and refres hments. (Recom mended for ages 13 and up) Art at St. Kate’s July 13 th The 6 annual Art at St. Kate’s, a juried art fair of quality fine crafts and fine art, is produced by Artists’ Circle, a Minnesota non-profit art organization promoting fine crafts since 1997, and Textile Center, a national center for fiber arts in Minneapolis on Saturday, July 13, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free event. Free parking. This is the finest one-
Fifth Annual Groundbreaker Battle July 13 The heart of downtown Minneapolis will beat louder than normal thanks to The Cowles Center for Dance and the Performing Arts and their fifth annual Groundbreaker Battle on Saturday, July 13, 2013. From noon to 8pm a free, community-centered event celebrating the artistry and culture of the hip hop community will take place in the Butler Square Parking Lot on the corner of Hennepin Avenue and 5th Street. The Cowles Center’s annual breaker battle is an opportunity for breaking crews from around the country to share their talents with community members in a positive and affirming competition. Teens Read Book Club July 15 Do you want to read something new? Really new? Not-evenavailable-to-the-public new? Then join Red Balloon Bookshop’s Teens Read book club, open to teens in 7th-12th grade on Monday, July 15, 6:30 pm. Every month, each teen participant will select one Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of an upcoming book, write a short review, and come back the next month to talk about it. Other opportunities include planning author events and book parties, volunteering at the store, blogging, and more. Come to hang with friends, eat snacks, and discover your next favorite book! Teens Read meets every 3rd Monday at 6:30 pm. Questions? Call Red Balloon at (651) 224-8320 or email Amy at events@ redballoonbookshop. com.
Chapter & Verse Book Club July 18 Chapter & Verse is a national book club for members of Children’s Literature Network and other children’s literature enthusiasts who wish to discuss children’s and young adult fiction, nonfiction, picture books, and poetry. They meet Thursday, July 18, 6:30 pm, the third Thursday of every month at Red Balloon. July’s books are Zebra Forest, by Adina Rishe Gewirtz and The Camping Trip That Changed America, by Barb Rosenstock, illustrated by Mordicai Gerstein. Please bring suggestions for stories about tense circumstances. w w w. c h i l d r e n s literaturenetwork.org Northside Film Classics July 19 Northside Film Classics will continue our celebration of Gangster Movies on Friday July 19 with a screening of Miller’s Crossing directed and produced by Minnesota’s own gangsters, the Coen Brothers. (Of course you have to be a little bit of a gangster to get a movie made in Hollywood!) Producer/director team Ethan and Joel Coen were born and raised in St. Louis Park, Minnesota. Come and see why Time magazine called Miller’s Crossing, one of the top 100 movies of all time. Admission is free. Film to begin at 7:00 with discussion to follow. Find Waldo Local on (or near) Grand Ave! thru July 31 Where’s Waldo? On Grand Ave, of course. The famous children’s book character in the striped shirt and black-rimmed specs is visiting twentysix different local businesses throughout our community this July. Pick up a “Find Waldo Local� passport at Red Balloon Bookshop, 891 Grand Ave., St. Paul, MN. 55105 and collect signatures when you find the well-
forum series offers the community to gain an understanding this document which changed the world as we knew. The forum and its leaders and attendees will continue to explore the meaning, values, purpose and
impact on present day reality. How did we get from there to here? Why did Lincoln sign this sea changing piece of paper? How and to what extent did the enslaved population benefit? These are just a few of the questions
Phone: 612.588.1313
hidden Waldo at any of the participating businesses. Those who spot him can win prizes, including stickers, book coupons, and more. “Find Waldo Local� is a great summer vacation activity, and a wonderful way for residents to support local business and the Shop Local movement. Join us for a Where’s Waldo Celebration on Wednesday, July 31, 6:30 pm, and enter to win Waldo books and gift cards to local businesses. For more information and a list of participating busin esses, visit www. r e d b a l l o o n bookshop.com /findwaldo. Frogtown Fall Festival Aug. 17 A community event to Support Youth Programming on August 17, 2013 from 10am- 5pm. located at the Park and Recreation Center, 685 W. Minnehaha Avenue in St. Paul. There will be fun for all ages, including youth football scrimmages, community resources, K9 unit, fire and police vehicles, jump castle, climbing wall, senior bingo, basketball tournament, entertainment, concessions, and much more. Come out, sponsor a table, and/or donate. For more information, please call (612) 462-1720. Visit frogtownconnections. com for more information. Truth and Reconciliation G r a d u a t i o n Dinner.......Aug. 25 A Truth and Reconciliation Graduation Dinner amongst African descent people and African people (Part 1) will be held August 25, 2013 at MASJID AN-NUR, 1729 Lyndale Ave. N. Minneapolis, MN from 9am to 2pm. Please RSVP Al-haqq Zayid (612) 338-0889 by July 25, 2013. There will be three guest speakers, and DVDs will be shown as well. Continental
breakfast will be serve from 9am to 10: 30am. Dinner will be serve at 1pm. The food is Halal. This is a mosque, please dress appropriate. Walking and Biking Tours through September 15 During the summer of 2013, Preserve Minneapolis will offer 27 unique tours that highlight the natural, built, and cultural treasures found throughout the City. The 2013 schedule runs from May 19th through September 15th. On each tour, guides with experience in fields like architecture, history, and preservation will tell the “stories behind the storiesâ€? and give participants a greater understanding of the area’s social and built history‌with fun and a sense of humor. Tours typically cost $8 per person. Participants must pre-register online. Tours fill up fast and will be held to their size limits; however, when space allows, we will accept lastminute additions and cash payments of $10 at the tour starting points. Prepayment/registration and more information is available at: h t t p : / / w w w. preserveminneapolis. org/wpfile/tours/ Volunteers of America Foster Parent Information Meetings Ongoing Foster Parent Information Meetings for interested skilled parents desiring to provide care for troubled youth in the Volunteers of America foster care program. Kids of all ages are in need of a stable home with dedicated parents. Information meetings are held at Volunteers of America Corporate Office every Friday from 10am-11:30am. To RSVP or for additional information on becoming a foster parent, contact Jolene Swan at (952) 945-4064, email ftpfostercare@voamn. org or online at voafostercare.org
that could be raised. This offers community members to do some critical thinking to challenge what we know, in short, to free our collective minds. A moderator will lead the discourse. Karamu is an opened
forum with no holds barred. The forum is a creative collaboration between the black church and Solidarity, a volunteer group of social activists collectively committed to political education, in the name of
Fax: 612.588.2031
Frederick Douglas. The next forum will be held on Thursday, July 11, 6:00pm – 8:00pm at Camphor Memorial Methodist Church, under the ministry of reverend Gloria Roach Thomas, a graceful
and timeless worker for social justice. Camphor Memorial Methodist Church is located at 585 Fuller Avenue in St. Paul, MN. For more information, please call (612) 819-7173.
Email: info@insightnews.com
ADVERTISEMENT FOR PROPOSALS Project:
Minnesota Multi-Purpose Stadium
Owner:
Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority
Construction Manager:
Mortenson Construction, in association with Thor Construction
Architect:
HKS, Inc.
Mortenson Construction (the Construction Manager at Risk) is soliciting proposals for Procurement Package #1 and Procurement Package #2 on the Minnesota Multi-Purpose Stadium Project. Notice is hereby given that responses to this Request for Proposals (RFP) will be received by Mortenson for the provision of Preconstruction and Construction Services on the Minnesota Multi-Purpose Stadium project for the following subcontract categories: Procurement Package #1 x SC 1.1 - Long Span Structural Steel Fabrication and Erection x SC 1.2 - ETFE Roof Systems Procurement Package #2 x SC 2.1 - HVAC Mechanical Wet and Dry (including Temperature Controls) x SC 2.2 - Plumbing x SC 2.3 - Fire Protection x SC 2.4 - Electrical The current projected process and schedule for selecting the subcontractors is as follows: 50% Design Development Documents Issued RFP Proposal Manual Issued Pre-Proposal Meeting and MWBE Meet and Greet RFP Submission Proposer Interviews Selection
June 21, 2013 July 3, 2013 July 12, 2013 July 18, 2013 July 25-26, 2013 August 1, 2013
All dates are approximate and are provided as a courtesy to Proposers. Mortenson reserves the right, acting in its sole judgment, to modify this process or schedule. Plans and specifications are available via www.isqft.com. For access to the plans and specifications on isqft.com, contact My Nhia Vang at mynhia.vang@mortenson.com (Phone: 763-287-5639). Copies of the plans and specifications will also be provided to the following plan rooms for viewing: NAMC of Upper Midwest 4801 4th Avenue S. Minneapolis, MN 55409 612-827-2211 St. Paul Builders Exchange 445 Farrington Street St. Paul, MN 55103 651-224-7545 Rochester Builder’s Exchange 108 Elton Hills Lane Rochester MN 5590 507-282-6531 MEDA Minority Contractors/AGC of MN Planroom 250 2nd Ave S., Suite 106 Minneapolis, MN 55401 612-332-6332
Duluth Builder's Exchange 802 Garfield Ave Duluth, MN 55802 218-722-2836 Minneapolis Builders Exchange 1123 Glenwood Avenue North Minneapolis, MN 55405 612-381-2620 McGraw-Hill Plan Room www.fwdodge.com St. Cloud Builder’s Exchange 110 6th Avenue South St. Cloud MN 56301-3621 320-252-5832
One (1) electronic copy and five (5) bound copies of Sealed Proposals shall be submitted to Mortenson at the address provided below no later than 2:00 pm on July 18, 2013 which is the deadline for submittal of Proposals. M. A. Mortenson Company 700 Meadow Lane North Minneapolis, MN 55422 Attention: Kevin Dalager, Construction Executive Phone: 763-287-5804 Proposals shall be valid for 120 days. Proposals will be opened privately by Mortenson in the presence of the representatives of the Minnesota Sports Facility Authority, if requested by the Authority. The subcontract will be held by M. A. Mortenson Company. The form of Subcontract Agreement, together with the Construction Services Agreement between the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority and Mortenson, are available within the RFP. The Owner has adopted a comprehensive Equity Plan for the construction phase of the Project. The Targeted Business Program sets an 11% and 9% goal for construction contracts for the Project to be awarded to women- and minority-owned Minnesota-based business enterprises (MWBE), respectively. The Targeted Business Program also establishes a Veterans Inclusion Program to ensure that our veterans have every opportunity to participate in the Project. The Veterans Inclusion Program will include efforts to include small veteran-owned businesses. See the RFP Proposal Manual for Subcontract Category specific MWBE goals. The Work Force Program sets a 32% and 6% goal for workforce utilization for the Project of minorities and women, respectively. The Equity Plan applies to all subcontractors and suppliers of all tier levels. The Veterans Inclusion Program will also include efforts to utilize veteran in the construction workforce. Proposers are expected to use all necessary and reasonable means to comply with the Equity Plan, including without limitation soliciting work from a broad number of Targeted Businesses and for work scopes suitable for their participation. Pre-Proposal Meetings and MWBE Meet and Greets have been scheduled at the Mortenson Office, 700 Meadow Lane North, Minneapolis, MN 55422. If needed, contact the Mortenson Representative for directions. Scope Procurement Package #1 (Long Span Structural Steel, ETFE) Procurement Package #2 (Mechanical, Plumbing, Electrical)
Date and Time Friday, July 12, 2013 at 10:00 am Friday, July 12, 2013 at 2:00 pm
All questions regarding this RFP shall be directed in writing to Kevin Dalager, Mortenson Construction Executive, at the address above or via email at kevin.dalager@mortenson.com. Interpretations or clarifications considered necessary by Mortenson in response to such questions will be issued by Addenda to all parties recorded as having received the RFP documents. Questions received less than seven (7) days prior to the date for openings of the Proposals may not be answered. Only responses issued by formal written Addenda will be binding. Oral and other interpretations or clarifications will be without legal effect. Addenda may be issued to modify the Proposal Documents as deemed advisable by Mortenson. END OF ADVERTISEMENT FOR PROPOSALS
Classifieds Phone: 612.588.1313 Fax: 612.588.2031 Email: info@insightnews.com
Office Administrator SteppingStone Theatre for Youth Development in St. Paul seeks an outgoing and organized Office Administrator to handle Customer Service and Clerical duties. Full-time. Call 651-225-9265 or email ross@steppingstonetheatre.org for job description and requirements.
Foreclosure Sale 36 Unit Apartment Complex Lamberton, MN
MINNESOTA OFFICE HIGHER EDUCATION
OF
Research Director The Minnesota Office of Higher Education, a cabinetlevel state agency, is seeking an individual to serve as the Director of Research. Candidates must possess, at a minimum, a Master’s degree with three years of demonstrated leadership in higher education research, analysis, teaching, and senior level management to be considered. To apply for this position, use the on-line Resume Builder at http://www.careers.state.mn.us/ and select vacancy posting #13MOHE000005.
Attorney - Central Minnesota Legal Services St. Cloud Office FT attorney spec. in family law, and government benefits. Job resp. incl. litigation, community legal ed, community outreach. Post-law school poverty law exper. a plus. Spanish/Somali lang. a plus. Valid driver’s license and vehicle needed as travel required. Licensed in MN or elig. for next bar exam. New grads considered. Salary up to $49,346 D.O.E. Excellent benefits. Send resume, cover letter, writing sample to Judy Hollie, CMLS 430 1st Ave N #359, Minneapolis, MN 55401. Applications accepted until filled. EOE
Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer
Minneapolis Urban League
Immigration Attorney Immigration Attorney, Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid. For details go to http://www.mylegalaid.org/employment.
Supervising Attorney Supervising Attorney, Legal Services State Support. For details go to http://www.mylegalaid.org/employment.
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Minneapolis Urban League School Office Coordinator
Job summary: Under the supervision of the School Principal coordinate all school administrative activities, assisting with operational, academic, college access, career development and family engagement activities. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: Demonstrate a strong knowledge of administrative support procedures and practices; knowledge of basic office machines and equipment. Strong technology skills, as well as verbal and written skills. Must be a team player with excellent customer service skills. Attention to detail, flexible and willing to cooperate with other team members. Ability to follow oral and written instructions, ability to communicate effectively and tactfully with school personnel, students, parents and guardians, and the general public. Minimum Qualifications: Graduation from high school, some community college attendance preferred. Administrative Professional certification desired with proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly EXCEL and POWERPOINT.
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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
Note: This advertisement is placed by HUD and does not constitute the legal notice of foreclosure sale.
HOW TO APPLY: Email cover letter and resume to vdavis@mul.org; fax to 612-521-1444 or mail to 2100 Plymouth Ave. No., Mpls, Mn 55411, Attn: HR - Preferred method is email. This position is open until filled.
Job Summary: The high school business teacher instructs students in business at a secondary school level that in turn leads some students to pursue a business or technology as a career or improves the student’s business knowledge and career skills. They teach business curriculum such as resume writing, business careers, account checking, computer keyboarding and computer courses, and financial literacy skills. Working with computers, the business technology teacher instructs and teaches students about spreadsheets, word processing, graphics and databases. They prepare the students business assignments and exams, grade the papers and evaluate the student’s progress. While teaching the instructor maintains classroom order, sets acceptable behavior from their students and enforces school rules. Experience and Qualification Requirements: A solid foundation in the use and application of computers, software and proper integration into the curriculum, information technology and business. Minnesota Teaching License with certification to teach Business Education. Must have a bachelor’s degree with a major in business education or equivalent. Experience working w/student placement in internships, and school-to-work certification. Classroom management skills a must. Ability to work cooperatively with parents and staff. Ability to work well with high school students in an alternative school setting. HOW TO APPLY: Email cover letter and resume to vdavis@mul.org; fax to 612-521-1444 or mail to 2100 Plymouth Ave. No., Mpls, Mn 55411, Attn: HR - Preferred method is email. This position is open until filled.
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Assumed Name 1. State the exact assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted: AskC Supply
Assumed Name
2. State the address of the principal place of business: 1041 James Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55411
1. State the exact assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted: AskC
3. List the name and complete street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name OR if an entity, provide the legal corporate, LLC, or Limited Partnership name and registered office address. Attach additional sheet(s) if necessary: Lazarus Consortium, LLC, 1041 James Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55411; Kore Manifold Holdings, Inc., 1041 James Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55411; Knowledge on the Rise and Evolving, Inc., LLC, 1041 James Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55411
2. State the address of the principal place of business: 1041 James Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55411
4. I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Minnesota Statues section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath. Signed by: Keillen Curtis Date Filed: 06/17/2013 Insight News 07/08/2013, 07/15/2013
3. List the name and complete street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name OR if an entity, provide the legal corporate, LLC, or Limited Partnership name and registered office address. Attach additional sheet(s) if necessary: Lazarus Consortium, LLC, 1041 James Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55411 4. I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Minnesota Statues section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath. Signed by: Keillen Curtis Date Filed: 06/17/2013 Insight News 07/08/2013, 07/15/2013
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Insight News • July 8 - July 14, 2013 • Page 11
HEALTH 100 Black Men of America focus on health and wellness The 100 Black Men of America (100 BMOA) focused on the awareness and solutions for a number of health and wellness issues impacting African Americans at its 27th Annual Conference held June 5-9, 2013 in New Orleans. Under the theme: Optimizing Health & Wellness: Body, Mind and Spirit, over 2,100 attendees, including many youth, heard experts on panels and in workshops, learned about new mentoring and education techniques, and recognized best practices to improve health personally and in their communities. “Health and wellness is crucial to the youth we serve through our ‘Mentoring the 100 Way Across a Lifetime.’ Our efforts, that also include education and economic empowerment, are not nearly as effective if the youth we mentor are not healthy and well,” said Curley M. Dossman, Jr., Chairman of 100 Black Men
of America, Inc. “So we are intensifying our efforts to raise the consciousness of the state of health in the African American community, and enhancing our programs’ impact in this area.” The health state of African Americans was put in the spotlight since there is greater
incidence of prostate cancer, diabetes, hypertension, and HIV/AIDS for them versus the general population. Further, African Americans are more likely to die from heart disease, lung cancer, and stroke than Caucasians. Obesity and high blood pressure are also
significant issues that are affecting Black youth. In his conference keynote address, Dr. John E. Maupin, Jr., president of Morehouse School of Medicine, challenged the audience to help change the health and wellness culture of the African American
community saying, “We are out of balance, out of order, and almost out of time.” In response to the growing risks for prostate cancer – the incidence rate is 60% higher for African Americans and the death rate is 2 ½ times that of Caucasian men –the 100 BMOA reaffirmed its 2012 Prostate Cancer Statement that the current standard medical guidelines for prostate cancer screening are insufficient for African American males, putting them at greater risk. As stated by Dr. Adewale Troutman, Health & Wellness Committee chairman of 100 Black Men of America, Inc. and president of the American Public Health Association (APHA), “The problem before us today is there are no definitive guidelines for African American men at highest risk of prostate cancer. Therefore, 100 BMOA stands by our 2012 statement and urges the AUA (American
Urological Association), the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, and other appropriate organizations to convene a panel for the specific purpose of developing guidelines applicable to high risk men.” The 2013 Education Issues Summit was titled, “Reclaiming Our Black Males and Public Schools through Advocacy, Public Policy, and Community Engagement.” Chairman Dossman moderated a panel which consisted of: David Johns, White House Initiative on Education Excellence for African Americans; J. Delano Ford, Louisiana Recovery School District; Dr. Amy T. Wilkins, The College Board; John Jenkins, University of Houston; Dr. Bryant Marks, Morehouse College; Ken Campbell, BAEO; and Henry Hipps, The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. In addressing
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Study: PrEP can reduce HIV risk among people who inject drugs
Key Trial Findings · Overall, daily oral tenofovir reduced the risk of contracting HIV by 49 percent · Participants who took the medication consistently saw a 74 percent reduction in HIV transmission, underscoring the importance of adherence · There were no significant safety concerns and no one who became infected with HIV during the trial developed drug resistance, consistent with previous studies In response to the trial outcomes, CDC is also releasing interim clinical guidance to healthcare professionals who wish to prescribe pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention among people who inject drugs.
percent. Those who took the medication most consistently had even higher levels of protection, according to a new study announced today by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – in collaboration with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and the Thailand Ministry of Public Health (MOPH). This is the first evidence that pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) offers significant protection to individuals exposed to HIV through injection drug use. The findings were published online today in the Lancet. “This is a significant step forward for HIV prevention. We now know that PrEP can work for all populations at increased risk for HIV,” said Jonathan Mermin, M.D., director of CDC’s Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention. “Injection drug use accounts for a substantial portion of the HIV epidemic around the world, and we are hopeful that PrEP can play a role in reducing the continued toll of HIV infection in this population.” The findings are from the Bangkok Tenofovir Study, a clinical trial launched in 2005 involving more than 2,400 men and women at Bangkok city-run drug treatment clinics. Injection drug use accounts for eight percent of new HIV infections in the United States and approximately ten percent of new HIV infections worldwide. In some regions of the world, such as Eastern Europe and Central Asia, this route of transmission accounts for up to 80 percent of new infections. Daily PrEP with tenofovir – alone or in combination with emtricitabine – has been proven to reduce the risk of sexual transmission of HIV among heterosexuals and men who have sex with men. This trial is the first to examine efficacy among people who inject drugs.
Daily HIV medications now proven to prevent HIV among all groups at high risk A daily dose of a medication used to treat HIV infection reduced the risk of HIV acquisition among people who inject drugs by 49
Study Findings A total of 2,413 men and women were enrolled in the study and randomly assigned to take a daily dose of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) or placebo. Two participants were determined to
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention today released the first evidence that daily medication used to treat HIV infection can also reduce the risk of HIV acquisition among people who inject drugs. The new data are published online in the Lancet. The findings come from the Bangkok Tenofovir Study, conducted by CDC in collaboration with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and the Thailand Ministry of Public Health. Since daily PrEP has already been proven to reduce sexual transmission of HIV among both heterosexuals and gay/ bisexual men, the new findings complete the picture of PrEP efficacy – PrEP is now proven to prevent HIV transmission among all populations at high risk. The study included more than 2,400 men and women at Bangkok city-run drug treatment clinics. Participants were randomly assigned to receive a daily oral pill containing either the antiretroviral medication tenofovir or placebo, and all participants were provided a package of proven HIV prevention tools and services.
have been HIV-infected before enrollment and were excluded from analysis, which included the remaining 2,411 HIV-negative participants. All participants in the study were provided HIV prevention counseling, a risk reduction package for both sexual and drug-related risks, and monthly HIV testing. In the primary analysis, among the 1,204 participants taking TDF, there were 17 HIV infections, compared with 33 infections among the 1,207 participants taking placebo. This translates into a statistically significant 49 percent reduction in risk of HIV acquisition overall. The researchers also conducted a separate analysis to better understand the level of protection for those who adhered most closely to the daily regimen. This analysis was among participants who chose to be on directly observed therapy, met pre-established criteria for high adherence (taking TDF at least 71 percent of days and not missing more than two consecutive days) and had detectable levels of TDF in their blood. In this adherent population, HIV acquisition risk was reduced by 74 percent. “These findings add to the mounting scientific evidence that high adherence to PrEP is essential to achieve the greatest benefit,” said Mermin. “When used consistently and in conjunction with other proven prevention measures, PrEP can provide important additional protection for many people who remain at high risk for HIV, including those who inject drugs.” Consistent with prior studies, the Bangkok trial did not identify any significant safety concerns associated with PrEP use, although participants assigned to the TDF group were more likely than those in the placebo group to report nausea, which typically resolved after two months. Risk behaviors, including injecting drugs, sharing needles, and having sex with more than one partner, decreased substantially during the course of the trial in both the TDF and placebo arms of the study. No tenofovir resistance was detected among participants
who become infected with HIV during the trial. “We are grateful for the extraordinary dedication of our Thai trial volunteers over many years and salute Thailand’s leadership in HIV prevention research,” said Michael Martin, M.D., Chief of HIV Clinical Research for the Thailand MOPH – U.S. CDC Collaboration, and the lead CDC investigator on the study. “Their efforts have provided hope that many HIV infections can be prevented, saving lives here in Bangkok and around the world.” Implementation Next Steps Many important questions remain about how best to implement PrEP in conjunction with other proven prevention measures for people who inject drugs. The
best way for people who inject drugs to reduce their risk for HIV is to stop using injection drugs. However, for people who will not or cannot stop injecting, PrEP may complement other available tools, including access to new sterile needles and syringes and regular HIV testing. Key implementation questions that CDC and its partners will examine for the United States include acceptability, strategies to support adherence in less controlled settings than a clinical trial, and the best settings for delivery of PrEP for this population. Tomorrow, CDC will publish initial guidance in the weekly Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, recommending that providers who wish to prescribe PrEP to people who inject drugs follow the same cautions and
YOUR
procedures in CDC’s existing interim clinical guidance on the use of PrEP to prevent sexual transmission and deliver PrEP in combination with other proven prevention services to reduce both sexual and drug-related transmission risks. CDC is currently working to finalize full Public Health Service clinical guidelines on PrEP use, which the agency anticipates publishing later this year. In Thailand, trial participants will now be offered access to TDF for HIV prevention for one year as part of a follow-on study which will provide additional data to help assess use and effectiveness outside of a trial setting. CDC will also support BMA and MOPH as they work to determine how to best incorporate PrEP into HIV prevention efforts locally.
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Page 12 • July 8 - July 14, 2013 • Insight News
Vote From 1 disenfranchise Black, Latino and poor voters. “All the states and jurisdictions that were covered by section 5 utilizing the section 4 formula have now been released, said Hilary Shelton Washington, D.C. bureau chief of the NAACP. “So [those states] can go ahead and make all those changes that the Justice Department has blocked over the years.” In a June 2013 study released a few weeks before the Shelby County v. Holder decision, a Brennan Center for Justice report stated, “In the most recent legislative session and as of April 29, 2013, 28 restrictive voting bills65 were introduced in the states that are covered, wholly or in part, by Section 5. Two have already passed, and 17 are still pending as of June 10, 2013. The bills introduced include, for example, a strict photo identification requirement in Virginia, restrictions on early voting and same-day registration in North Carolina, and a South Carolina bill requiring documentary proof of citizenship to register to vote.” Kimberlé Crenshaw, cofounder of the African American
Conference From 11 a condition that results in only 50% of Black males graduating from high school, the panel offered solutions for both our communities and school systems. 100 BMOA conducted its traditional Community Empowerment Project (CEP) by providing a health and wellness fair for Central New Orleans residents in partnership with the 100 Black Men of Metro New Orleans. The CEP was held at the Ashe´ Cultural Arts Center. More than 1,200 residents received health education that included: disease prevention strategies, diet and exercise, disaster preparedness, spiritual health, financial health, and affordable health care access.
insightnews.com vacated its authority and handed it over to a Congress that has been dysfunctional and unable
Policy Forum, a civil rights think tank that works to advance racial justice in the United States and abroad, said that the Supreme Court’s decision wasn’t about facts, or even about proof of ongoing voter discrimination in the once-covered states. Crenshaw said that the Supreme Court decision was about one thing – ideology. “It’s like building a dam to keep the lowlands from flooding and for 40 years the lowlands don’t flood and then deciding that you don’t need the dam anymore,” said Crenshaw. Civil rights and voting rights advocates want all voters to be prepared and vigilant when it comes to restrictive bills that pop up across the country, such as voter ID laws, proof of citizenship requirements, bans on Sunday voting, attempts to purge naturalized citizens from the rolls, the elimination of same-day registration and cuts to early voting periods. “All these policies are aimed at making it harder to vote for people of color,” said Judith Browne Dianis, co-director of the Advancement Project. Voting rights advocates now will also lean heavily on section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, but most admit that many laws will go into effect and lawsuits may not come fast enough. “In essence this decision says
that ‘discrimination is still real and must still be challenged,’ but rather than address the issue
on the front end as preclearance allows. [The Supreme Court] says, ‘Let it happen. Let’s allow elections to go forward knowing that discrimination exists,” said Rev. William J. Barber, president of the North Carolina State Conference of the NAACP. When Congress extended the Voting Rights Act in 2006, it passed the House on a vote of 390-3 and the Senate 98-0. But given the current bickering, many worry whether repairing the damage created by the recent decision is possible. “The Supreme Court has
to take decisive actions on the key moral issues of our time,” said Gihan Perera, executive director of the Florida New Majority, a grassroots civil rights organization. The Department of Justice has also pledged to step up its efforts to protect voters. In a statement shortly after Shelby decision was released, the Attorney General Eric Holder said that even though our country has changed for the better since 1965, we still haven’t reached the destination that we seek.
In addition, health screenings for HIV/AIDS, prostate cancer, breast cancer, dental issues, and stroke were conducted, as were body mass index and blood pressure checks. Exhibits and demonstrations on healthpromoting subjects, such as how to cook nutritious meals, were also given in a festive atmosphere of healthy food, fun, and games that engaged the entire family. At this year’s conference, 100 BMOA announced the following partnership investments: Wells Fargo $400,000 (Impact Expansion in Mentoring & Education), UPS $125,000 (Leadership Development & Scholarships), Anheuser-Busch $175,000 (Mentoring & Water Conservation), Aetna $50,000 (Health Power 2013 / Youth Movement), and General Motors $35,000 (Impact Expansion for Mentoring &
Education). “These partners reflect our collaboration with like-minded organizations and individuals who share our common cause of mentoring youth in atrisk situations,” Chairman Dossman said. “As part of our ‘100 as One’ platform, we are deepening our One Cause and broadening our One Network. These partners are part of that network which extends internationally through our 110 chapters.” During the conference, individuals and one corporation were recognized for making a significant difference in their respective areas. The awards and honorees that were announced were:
Ashley Matthew, medical and doctoral student at University of Massachusetts Medical School
The Supreme Court has vacated its authority and handed it over to a Congress that has been dysfunctional and unable to take decisive actions on the key moral issues of our time [...]
Chairman’s Award for Education Asia Matthew, medical and doctoral student at University of Massachusetts Medical School
Chairman’s Award for Economic Empowerment Alden McDonald, Jr., president and CEO, Liberty Bank and Trust Company Chairman’s Award for Mentoring Leadership Dr. Charles Teamer, Sr., vice chairman of the Board, First NBC Bank Chairman’s Award for Transformational Leadership Lt. General Russel L. Honore´, United States Army (retired) Leadership in Youth Activism Mary-Pat Hector, founder, Youth Move
“We will not hesitate to take swift enforcement action using every legal tool that remains to us against any jurisdiction that seeks to take advantage of Supreme Court’s ruling by hindering eligible citizens full and free exercise of the franchise,” said Holder. “Although today’s decision represents a serious and unnecessary setback, the Justice Department remains committed to moving forward in manner that is consistent with the arc of American history which has always been a story of increasing equality inclusion and access to the franchise This is what makes America truly exceptional and this is what we will zealously guard.” For some civil rights groups, restoring section 4 of the VRA, won’t solve the myriad problems in a system that allows “13,000 voting jurisdictions in this country that run elections 13,000 different ways.” “Under this confusing, patchwork system, the freedom to vote is left to mercy of state officials. It doesn’t make sense to have a system where every jurisdiction can make up its own rules,” said Rashad Robinson, executive director for ColorOfChange.org, an organization that advocates for social and political change in the Black community. “It only
serves to make it easier for politicians to manipulate the system for political gain.” The movement for access to the ballot must continue, said Crenshaw, the law professor at UCLA. “The movement has to go beyond just restoring the status quo,” said Crenshaw. “It has to go, not just go to broadening political participation, but to the well-being of segments of our community who have taken a tremendous hit during [The Great Recession].” Crenshaw added that with civil rights groups and voting rights advocates can utilize the tools of the day to gain unique and direct access to a broad majority of a diverse electorate through pop culture and hip hop music. “When they saw people like Marlon Brando and Harry Belafonte and Muhammad Ali jump behind the Civil Rights Movement, that brought millions of people on board it gave them the sense of what was right and wrong about their current condition,” said Crenshaw. “It was responsible and just and cool to be involved in social justice.” Crenshaw continued: ““How much more can we hear about getting paid? What about getting real and getting involved for this generation and the next?”
Conventions & Meetings Committee, 100 Black Men of America, Inc.
Rutgers University Dr. Louis Sullivan, chairman of the board, National Health Museum Dr. David Satcher, director, Satcher Health Leadership Institute Dr. M. Jocelyn Elders, professor emeritus of pediatric endocrinology, University of Arkansas School of Medical Science
James T. Black Award Charlie Hill, 100 Black Men of Virginia Peninsula, Inc. Knight Award Marvin Dickerson, vice chairman of development, 100 Black Men of America, Inc. Community Impact Award Dr. Norman C. Francis, president, Xavier UniversityLouisiana Walter M. Kimbrough, president, Dillard University Dr. Victor Ukpolo, chancellor Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO)
Corporation of the Year The Coca-Cola Company Mentor of the Year Cornelius Stafford, 100 Black Men of DeKalb, Inc. (GA) Mentee of the Year Brandon Fountain, 100 Black Men of DeKalb, Inc. (GA) Collegiate 100 Chapter of the Year Collegiate 100 of Hillsborough Community College
chair,
Chairman’s Award for Leadership in Health and Wellness C. Vivian Stringer, head women’s basketball coach,
“Would you have this high number (of sex offenders) in Edina, Eden Prairie – near Lake Calhoun,” questioned Jordan neighborhood resident, David Haddy. “I demand answers, we demand answers. Enough is enough.” According to state Department of Corrections (DOC) officials, once a level 3 sex offender is released from prison, that offender must report to a halfway house for a period of 60 days and many of the halfway houses are located in north Minneapolis, which could explain the proliferation of offenders in the area. Officials also said many sex offenders find refuge with property owners who are willing to rent to them, and some of these owners own multiple properties in north Minneapolis. Haddy, who is white, said he believes the heavy concentration of sex offenders in north Minneapolis neighborhoods is a deliberate state and city plan to house dangerous sex offenders in largely African-American areas.
“This is an act of purpose to concentrate these level 3 (sex offenders) in lower income, minority populations,” said Haddy, who said though many offenders committed their initial crimes in other areas – and even counties far from Hennepin County – the offenders tend to end up in a dense area of north Minneapolis. According to Haddy, five level 3 sex offenders live on one single block and six additional offenders on Golden Valley Road share the same apartment building. “We know the (state) statute has gaping holes,” said State Senator Bobby Joe Champion. “We have to recommit ourselves in the legislature to change the statute.” Champion said in addition to beefing up the language in the state statute as the where sex offenders can reside and what is considered “concentration,” the city needs to examine an ordinance on the matter. Hennepin County Councilwoman Linda Higgins laid blame squarely at the feet of the state DOC. “The state Department of Corrections says they
have nothing to do about this concentration, but they’re wrong; dead wrong,” said Higgins, who said the department needs to change it’s policy on where released offenders can reside. According to Higgins, once released, level 3 offenders have to demonstrate what she termed as weak ties to an area in order to have their civilian living approved. Ward 5 City Councilman Don Samuels, who was on hand for the beginning of the meeting, said the state’s law concerning the placement of released sex offenders does not do enough to protect the residents of north Minneapolis and said the city needs to draft an ordinance to limit the places where sex offenders can reside. “Quite frankly, it’s an outrage for the city to have such a high concentration of sex offenders in one area where half the population is under the age of 18 years of age,” said Samuels, who is vying to become the city’s next mayor. A complete list of registered level 3 sex offenders can be found on the Minnesota DOC website at www.doc.state.mn.us/ level3/search.asp.
North
Florida Courier New York Amsterdam News
From 1
BEST FEATURE STORY Philadelphia Tribune Houston Forward Times Call & Post
BEST USE OF PHOTOGRAPHS (Tabloid) Chicago Defender Washington Informer Los Angeles Watts Times
Wimberly Award Kevin Patterson,
NNPA From 1
Service. NNPA Legacy Awards were presented to Jesse Jackson, Sr., founder and president of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, and James Farmer, former vice president of General Motors Acceptance Corp. (GMAC). The NNPA’s Front Page Award was presented to Roland Martin, host of “Washington Watch with Roland Martin” on TV One cable network, and Larry Waters, Senior Director of Community Commerce and Partnerships for MillerCoors. Merit Award winners were (in order of 3rd, 2nd, then 1st place): BEST EDITORIAL Skanner Philadelphia Tribune Afro BEST COLUMN St. Louis American Los Angeles Sentinel Philadelphia Tribune BEST NEWS STORY St. Louis American
BEST LAYOUT & DESIGN (Broadsheet) St. Louis American Miami Times Insight News BEST LAYOUT & DESIGN (Tabloid) Houston Defender Washington Informer Los Angeles Watts Times BEST LIFESTYLE Philadelphia Tribune Houston Forward Times Call & Post BEST YOUTH WRITER (1623) Philadelphia Tribune New York Amsterdam News Houston Forward Times BEST USE OF PHOTOGRAPHS (Broadsheet) St. Louis American Houston Defender Los Angeles Sentinel
BEST CHURCH PAGE Miami Times Indianapolis Recorder South Florida Times BEST SPORTS SECTION Houston Defender Daily Challenge Los Angeles Sentinel BEST BUSINESS SECTION St. Louis American Miami Times Pittsburgh Courier BEST ENTERTAINMENT SECTION St. Louis American Los Angeles Sentinel Miami Times DIGITAL EXCELLENCE Pittsburgh Courier St. Louis American Miami Times GENERAL EXCELLENCE St. Louis American Houston Defender Miami Times