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August 16 - August 22, 2010 • MN Metro Vol. 36 No. 33 • The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • www.insightnews.com
Mark Dayton DFL victory an upset
By Al McFarlane and B.P Ford, the Editors Mark Dayton will lead Minnesota Democrats’ quest for the Governors office this November. He defeated DFL-endorsed rival Margaret Anderson Kelliher by less than two percentage points in a neckto-neck battle for last week’s Primary Election. The third force vying for the DFL nomination, Worthington,
Official Photo
DFL Gubernatorial Nominee Mark Dayton
MN, native and former House Speaker, Matt Entenza, conceded early on election night August 10, as returns flowed toward Dayton and Anderson Kelliher. In many ways, the Dayton victory was an upset. Not only did he turn conventional wisdom on its head by refusing to seek endorsement in the precinct caucus process, which consequently yielded party support for Anderson
Courtesy mn2020.org
Matt Entenza
Kelliher, Dayton masterfully crafted a strategy that could be described in rural/urban, versus, the urban/rural strategy that, at the end of the day, did not yield victory for Entenza. With the DFL’s endorsement, odds were on Anderson Kelliher as the party’s standard bearer going into the primary. But this was an unusual election for several reasons. First, both Dayton and Entenza possess financial wherewithal to mount formidable initiatives to speak directly to democratic voters, even without the endorsement. Neither flinched in investing personal wealth to achieve the nomination. Both outspent Anderson Kelliher by a margin of 4-1. Anderson Kelliher raised and spent in the area of $1 million while Dayton and
Official Photo
Margaret Anderson Kelliher
PRIMARY TURN TO 9
Five years since Hurricane Katrina: Pain index still at crisis level for many By Bill Quigley, Davida Finger, and Lance Hill
Photos courtesy NNPA
Clockwise from top left: D’Army Bailey, Barbara Arnwine, Ron Walters, and Charles Ogletree
Obama needs staff for key issue of race By Hazel Trice Edney NNPA Editor-in-Chief WASHINGTON (NNPA) – The Obama Administration is missing a key element that has proven a detriment to America’s growth since he has been in office. That element is a staff presence to deal with the rancorous issues related to race in America. That is the sentiment of at least three seasoned civil rights warriors who say the cases of former Agriculture Department employee Shirley Sherrod; the advent of racial elements within the Tea
Party Express; the uprising following the Oakland, CA, subway shooting trial of Oscar Grant; and the Arizona racial profiling and immigration protests are among daily issues that graphically illustrate a dire need for White House intervention on the race issue. Some even say the President is “skittish” or “timid” on race and has neglected the need for policies and procedures that could help quell controversies or abate them in advance. “In general I think that if they had developed a better and more comprehensive way
OBAMA TURN TO 3
Business:
The human face of the mortgage foreclosure crisis
PAGE 3
NEW ORLEANS (NNPA) - It will be five years since Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans on August 29. The impact remains quite painful for many. This article looks at what has happened since Katrina - not from the perspective of the higher ups looking down from their offices, but from the street level view of the people – a view which looks at the impact on the elderly, the renter, people of color, the disabled, the working and nonworking poor. So, while one commentator may happily say that the median income in New Orleans has risen since Katrina, a street-level perspective recognizes that is because large numbers of the poorest people have not been able to return. Five years after Katrina, tens of thousands of homes in New Orleans remain vacant or blighted. Tens of thousands of African American children who were in the public schools have not made it back, nor have their parents. New Orleans has lost at least 100,000 people. Thousands of elderly and disabled people have not made it back. Affordable housing is not readily available so tens of thousands pay rents that are out of proportion to their wages. Race and gender remain excellent indicators of who is underpaid, who is a renter, who is in public school and who is low income. In short, the challenges facing New Orleans after Katrina are the same ones facing millions of people of color, women, the elderly and disabled and their children across the U.S. Katrina just made these challenges more
Education:
Harold Baquet
While New Orleans has successfully begun its rebuilding project, five years later, African Americans are still struggling twice as hard as whites. clear in New Orleans than in many other places. Here is where we are five years later:
before Katrina; now 20,000. St. Bernard had 64,000 before Katrina; now 40,000.
Overall population Five years after Katrina, the most liberal estimates are that 141,000 fewer people live in the metro New Orleans area. The actual population changes will not be clear until official Census Bureau findings are released in November, but it is safe to say that over 100,000 fewer live in the City of New Orleans. The New Orleans metro area is made up of several parishes, primarily Orleans, Jefferson, Plaquemines, St. Bernard and St. Tammany. Orleans had 455,000 people before Katrina. Now they have 354,000. Jefferson had 451,000 before Katrina; now 443,000. Plaquemines had 28,000
Displaced People Louisiana residents are located in more than 5,500 cities across the nation, the largest concentrations in Houston, Dallas, Atlanta and San Antonio. A majority of displaced residents are women – 59 percent, compared to 41 percent men. A third earn less than $20,000 a year. Lost Housing More than one in four residential addresses in New Orleans is vacant or blighted – by far the highest rate in the U.S. Though the numbers have been reduced somewhat in the last three years, 50,100 residential properties in New Orleans remain blighted or
Preparing to make this school year a great year
Minnesota Guard Quick Reaction Force
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have no structure on them. About 58 percent of city renters and 45 percent of suburban renters pay more than 35 percent of their pre-tax household income for housing. Households should spend less than 30 percent of income on housing. Anything over 30 percent means that housing is not really affordable for that family and they are likely to cut back on other necessities. Over 5,000 families are on the waiting list for traditional public housing and another 28,960 families are on the waiting list for housing vouchers – more than double what it was before Katrina and the government destruction of thousands of public housing apartments. Since the
KATRINA TURN TO 2
Sports Report:
NFL legends inducted into the Hall of Fame
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Page 2 • August 16 - August 22, 2010 • Insight News
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COMMENTARY Let’s reclaim the dream on August 28th
By Rev. Al Sharpton NNPA Columnist Forty-seven years ago, people of all races gathered on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. to urge their federal government to live up to the standards and ethos embodied in our Constitution. Forty-seven years ago, we demanded equal access to education, voting rights, desegregation across the board, just employment opportunities and equanimity in society. And forty-seven years ago, men and women from all walks of life, and from all ethnic persuasions rallied and marched for a larger federal government to intervene because states were failing to ensure our basic human civil rights. It was on August 28th, 1963, that the great Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. unequivocally summarized the sentiments of the over 250,000 attendees and millions across the country at home when he delivered his ‘I Have a Dream Speech’. Now forty-seven years later, it is time to Reclaim that Dream. National Action Network and I invite you to join us on August 28th in Washington, D.C as we mobilize along with other progressive leaders, clergy, activists and dream keepers to
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unanimously Reclaim The Dream. We will meet at 11 AM at Dunbar High School and then march forward in the same peaceful manner as Dr. King did on that historic day. When most people reflect on August 28th, 1963, they often forget the premise of why Dr. King and other leaders organized such a massive congregation to begin with. Billed as the “March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom,” the August 28th rally pushed for the federal government to take more direct action in enforcing laws and policies that would end institutional racism and create a level playing field for all people despite race, color or creed. The three-hour long program at the Lincoln Memorial united civil rights leaders like John Lewis and Dr. King himself to present a unified front in the quest for justice. And the following year, the success of that day and Dr. King’s relentless work were realized when Congress passed the Civil Rights Act, and one year later passed the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Dr. King undoubtedly understood the necessity of immediacy. He knew that despite the emancipation of
Warren K. Leffler
March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, 1963
slavery, “one hundred years later, the Negro is still not free,” and that “one hundred years later, the Negro lives on a lonely island of poverty in the midst of a vast ocean of material prosperity.” Today, with incomprehensible unemployment rates as high as 50 percent in places like NY, unequal access to decent education and housing, astronomical arrest and imprisonment rates, skyrocketing foreclosures and remaining strongholds of racial injustice, African Americans are still vying to fully realize Dr. King’s dream. With ridiculous state laws like Arizona’s antiimmigration SB 1070 bill, Latinos and other minorities are welcoming federal intervention to fully realize Dr. King’s dream. And as women still fight for higher wages and an end to discriminatory policies, the dream must still be fully realized. Join us at Dunbar High School at 11 am as we mobilize once again those that refuse to settle for injustice and inequality. In honor of
Dr. King, we will again march in the country’s capital as we call on our federal government to ensure our inalienable rights when states sometimes fail to do so. But we will in no way be deterred by those dividers like Glenn Beck and other Tea Party members who are attempting to tarnish the legacy of this historic day and our impeccable leader. We will not allow them to hijack the dream, nor destroy Dr. King’s mission. And we will not give credence to this disturbance, and distraction - for that is all that it is. In true non-violent Dr. King fashion, we will not be silenced. We again are living in tumultuous, volatile times, but we again remain hopeful and vigilant that change is just around the corner. It begins with laws and policies that create opportunity and impartiality. And it begins with each one of us. On August 28th, 1963, Dr. King famously stated: “I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.’” Let everyone who believes in justice join us in Washington on the 28th as we RECLAIM THE DREAM.
Five years after New Orleans’ levees broke By Julianne Malveaux NNPA Columnist (NNPA) - On August 29, we will commemorate five years since Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans drowning the city in feet of water. Five years ago our nation exhibited some of the most profound indifference to human beings as thousands of New Orleaneans were stuck without food, water, or sanitation in the Super Dome. In the aftermath of those five years, those divisions of race and class have determined which individuals have recovered from Katrina and those who have not. Five years after the levees broke, the City of New Orleans is still bruised from the tragedy of a natural disaster, a manmade disaster, and an indifferent government. Bill Quigley, Legal Director of the Center for Constitutional Rights, Loyola University law professors Bill and Davida Finger, and Tulane University researcher Lance Hill have compiled a “Pain Index” for New Orleans in 2010. They make the case that too many people have been permanently displaced, the infrastructure remains badly frayed, and that there is insufficient affordable housing. They note that while some say the median income in New Orleans has risen since Katrina, that income has only risen because so many poor people can’t come back. There are at least 100,000 fewer people in New Orleans today than five years ago. One in four residential addresses are
Kevin Finneran
vacant or blighted. Nearly 20,000 people are still waiting for money from the Road Home program to rebuild their homes. Meanwhile, rents have spiraled, and 5,000 people are waiting for public housing; another 28,000 or so are waiting for housing vouchers. The public school system has been decimated, and it is unclear whether charter education has been an improvement. In 2005, a New Orleans businessman promised the Wall Street Journal that the business community would use Katrina to reconfigure New Orleans politically, demographically and economically. With the city now being represented in the US House by a Vietnamese American
Republican, Joseph Cao, and with a major demographic shift in the City Council, one might say that the businessman kept his promise. Whether benignly or deliberately, poor people have gotten the word – they are unwelcome in New Orleans. Data tell one story, but it is souls and spirits that tell another. I’ve been to New Orleans twice this year, first for the Essence Music Festival, then for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority’s 50th Convention. The events were great, as events go, with highlights, challenges, and plenty of crowding. The best part of going to New Orleans these days, though, is talking to the people who live there about
their thoughts and feelings about “recovery.” “I wouldn’t live anywhere else,” the brother said. His voice has the thickness of gumbo, the jazzed nuance of many New Orleanean voices. The second time he picks me up to take me from one place to another, we get to talking and he tells me his story. He is 68, former military, and a retiree when Katrina hit. But he and his wife had to start all over because they lost everything. So instead of enjoying retirement, he drives three days a week, and does “odd jobs” to make ends meet. When I ask about federal government help, he grunts, utters an expletive, and then says, “I told you we had to start over.”
The housekeeper at the Hilton is a sweet chatterbox. When she brings extra tea bags, she natters on about why she prefers coffee to tea. When I ask her how she managed after Katrina, though, she grows silent and her countenance takes on sadness. “I lost my mother two years ago. I really think that storm killed her,” she said. She tells me a harrowing evacuation story that landed part of her family in Atlanta and part in Houston. Three of her five children chose to stay in Atlanta, feeling that starting over was too much. “I miss them and I miss my grands, but I have two others here,” she said. She speaks of Sunday dinners past with a wistfulness in her voice. “It is as if our family has been broken in half. People visit, but it’s just not the same,” she allowed. And, she says, she is grateful for what she does have, including her health, her home, and good relationships. Langston Hughes called stories like these “the sweet flypaper of life.” Not enough to write a research paper on, just enough to get some flavor for. That flypaper isn’t as sweet for many New Orleaneans as it was five years ago, and material conditions have worsened as well. When we turn the lens on New Orleans in a couple of weeks to commemorate the five years since Katrina, what can we say about the possibility that this city and its residents will ever be made whole? Julianne Malveaux is President of Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, North Carolina.
Letter to the editor: English only laws I am saddened to hear of cities such as Lino Lakes enacting “English only” laws and I sincerely hope that other cities in Minnesota will not follow. As citizens of the 21st Century and of the great state
of Minnesota, it is in our best interest that non-English speaking residents, citizens and visitors in our communities are able to interact with the local government. Local governments should foster that
interaction. I call on my mayor R.T. Rybak to prevent similar legislation from ever happening in Minneapolis, Gov. Tim Pawlenty to prevent this from happening on a state
level and our senators Amy Klobuchar and Al Franken to prevent similar laws from being enacted on a federal level. I am a proud Minnesotan and I hope that we can all come
together to make sure that Minnesota supports all of the populations who help make our state a great place.
Katrina
the grant policy was racially discriminatory and that Black homeowners received far smaller grants than White homeowners. The judge in that case has opined that “on average, African American homeowners received awards that fell farther short of the cost of repairing their homes than did White recipients.” The judge also found it “regrettable that this effort” to rebuild New Orleans “appears to have proceeded in a manner that disadvantaged African American homeowners who wish to repair their homes.” At least 19,746 applications for rebuilding homes that are eligible for funding have not received any money from the Road Home Program grants.
down about 16 percent. Black and Latino households earn incomes that are $26,000 (44 percent) and $15,000 (25 percent) lower than Whites. White household income is $56,000, Latino household income is $41,000 and African American household income is $35,000 in the metro New Orleans area. New Orleans has a poverty rate of 23 percent more than double the national average of 11 percent. But because of the loss of people in New Orleans, there are now more poor people living in the surrounding suburban parishes than in the city. Within New Orleans the majority of households are lower-income.
African American, has declined by 43 percent since Katrina. But an average increase of 5 percent a year in enrollment for the last two years (35,976 to 38,051 from 2008-2009 alone) indicates that people whose children attend public schools continue to return as housing and employment opportunities allow. In 2008, 85 percent of white students in New Orleans attended private schools, one of the highest percentages in a major city in the U.S. New Orleans now has more charter schools than any other public school system in the country. Of the 89 public schools in New Orleans, 48, more than half, are charter schools. In other words, sixty percent of students now attend privately managed, but publicly funded schools. The Metro area has recovered 79 percent of public and private school
enrollment.
From 1 post-Katrina bulldozing of several major public housing developments, there has been more than a 75 percent reduction in the number of public housing apartments available. Rebuilding Under Louisiana’s “Road Home” program to rebuild storm-damaged housing, rebuilding grants for homeowners on average fell about $35,000 short. The shortfall hit highly flooded, historically African American communities particularly hard. The Greater New Orleans Fair Housing Action Center filed suit in 2008 against state and federal agencies charging that
Economic Health The metro area has 95,000 fewer jobs than before Katrina,
Public and Private Education The number of students in public schools in New Orleans, which are over 90 percent
Erika J. Doerr, Minneapolis
People Receiving Public Assistance More than one-third of Social Security recipients who lived in New Orleans have not returned. There were 74,535 in 2004 and 47,000 in December 2009. Medicaid recipients have declined by 31 percent: preKatrina enrollment in Medicaid in New Orleans was 134,249. December 2009 enrollment was 93,310. Supplemental Security Income recipients are down from pre-Katrina 26,654 to 16,514 – a 38 percent decline. Public Transportation Total ridership has declined to 65.7 percent – from over 33 million in 2004 to about 13 million projected for 2010.
KATRINA TURN TO 8
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Insight News • August 16 - August 22, 2010 • Page 3
BUSINESS The human face of the mortgage foreclosure crisis Commentary
By Irma McClaurin, PhD Suicides, divorce, anxiety attacks, depression, and displacement of children from homes and schools are not what we associate with the mortgage foreclosure crisis. But we should. Instead of following the money, we should pay attention to the human side of the crisis. In this third year of the mortgage tsunami, while we debate about who profited and which federal agencies should have better monitoring, we ignore how people now choose between buying medicine for chronic illnesses and mortgage payments, or paying rent after foreclosure, and how communities are dying. On the ground, agencies
that offer financial literacy workshops for current owners and potential buyers, mortgage loan consultations, legal aid advice for those in foreclosure, and bankruptcy counseling may prevent future catastrophes, but short term, they are ill prepared to respond to the human suffering, and provide professional mental health counseling or make referrals. To the rescue is a small group of community based researchers at the University of Minnesota’s Urban Research and Outreach/ Engagement Center. They are following the people. Since 2008, University faculty, staff, and community researchers, the UROC Action Planning Team (UROC ART), have looked behind the money to learn how people’s health and wellness are affected. Their findings are still preliminary, but they are clear about one thing—individual, family, and community health and wellness have suffered as a result of this crisis. They also
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track resiliency among people and communities who adopt innovative strategies to survive this economic tsunami. Initially gathering hundreds in community forums, UROC ART now holds open meetings weekly, not just to talk, but to actually do the research. The team is led by Drs. Shonda Croft and Sara Axtel, University of Minnesota’s Department of Family Social Sciences,
and Makeda Zulu-Gillespie, UROC Community Liaison. Tisa Thomas is an FSS graduate student who grew up on the Northside and residents’ Leola Crawford and Raymond Dehn are paid community researchers. They’ve analyzed over 5000 articles from mainstream and community papers, and used participatory action research methods to identify themes that illustrate how individuals, their
families, and their communities are negatively affected, and their coping strategies. Minneapolis Congressman Keith Ellison understands the human side. His fifth ward district was hardest hit, and he collects their congressional testimonies. Ironically, though Minneapolis is considered one of the “best places” to live in the country, not so for those who call North Minneapolis home. In 2007, fifty-seven percent of all foreclosures in metropolitan Minneapolis occurred in North Minneapolis, where Congressman Ellison locates his office in the Minneapolis Urban League. Across the street, UROC ART operates out of a derelict shopping center, recently renovated by the University of Minnesota as part of its urban land grant vision. UROC ART is analyzing recent data collected by Leola and Tisa in direct interviews with local businesses. Once completed, the group will share their findings locally
and nationally to build public awareness about the human face of the mortgage foreclosure crisis. Their ultimate goal is to divert some of the funds coming down the federal pipeline for additional financial mortgage programs to already stressed community and county health agencies responsible for mental health services, and to communitybased organizations working to restore the health and wellbeing of their neighborhoods. Irma McClaurin, PhD is an anthropologist, writer, Associate Professor, Founding Executive Director of the University of Minnesota Urban Research and Outreach/Engagement Center, a former team member of UROC ART (www.uroc.umn.edu), and a former Associate VP at the University. She is currently on study leave. ©2010 McClaurin Solutions (mcclaurinsolutions@gmail. com)
Too busy to connect? Use professional networks online Plan Your Career By Julie Desmond julie@insightnews.com After eight hours on the job, most people balk at spending priceless evening time surfing
Obama From 1 of dealing with racial matters, they would have handled this differently,” says Barbara Arnwine, executive director of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law. She was talking about the forced Sherrod resignation as it relates to the overall handling of race matters by this White House. “I think that they’re skittish. They continue to be too skittish on issues that directly impact race relations, racial interactions, racial intolerance and racial conflict. They have not figured out how to handle those matters well. That’s why they continue to stumble on these matters.” Arnwine continues, “I think the fact that they have no veteran civil rights expert in the administration, that’s a problem. They have Black people. They have other people of color, but they really don’t have a person who really knows the civil rights community well, who understands our history, our role and our aspirations. They have people with some experience, but they’re not in those roles.” Former Tennessee Circuit Court Judge and civil rights activist D’Army Bailey agrees. “The lesson here is that we have to keep pressures on the White House. We cannot take for granted that just because we have an African American president that the sensitivity is going to be there,” says Bailey, founder of the National Civil Rights Museum in the old Memphis’ Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., was assassinated in 1968. He is also author of a new book, The Education of a Black Radical, which chronicles his own civil rights history. “I know that in the Oval Office, there is a bust of Dr. King. I have no concern about this president’s Blackness. But, his timidity when it comes to the tough issues of race, that does concern me,” Bailey says. “And, apparently, some of those people who he has as his key advisors in the White House are not people who’ve got that steely resolve to stand up when the going gets tough and to stand up for the principles of Blackness – not as a racial matter – but as a fairness to Black people and fight for us.” Bailey adds, “Every person of an ethnic group who comes into a position of leadership anywhere in the world carries with them - necessarily - the unique feelings, aspirations and interests of that ethnic group and ought not to run from it or
professional networks online. If you are not currently looking for work, why bother? Here’s why: You might meet someone. You might learn something. You might have an opportunity to help someone else get ahead. I have enough connections, you say. Sure. Today you do. But when you lose your job tomorrow, or choose to relocate or retire or change careers altogether, then how many connections are
enough? And do most of your connections know or care that they are connected with you? On a scale of tight to barely attached, how connected are you, really? Professional networks are a platform for meeting people. One in eight married couples today met online. By developing your network, you improve the odds that you will know the right person when an excellent opportunity opens up for you. Cultivate
your connections by keeping up, notice and comment on others’ successes and comment professionally on discussions. Ask questions you already know the answers to; this lets you see someone else’s perspective. Groups within these networks offer dynamic, current thought on professional issues that matter. Pay attention and you just might learn something that will help either you or your employer. Education is
golden, we all know, and these sites are rife with articles and commentary on virtually every topic. Learn about innovations in your industry, hear your competitor’s views and volley about current problems in your field. That whole “goes around comes around” motto is tiresome but true. Getting active on a professional networking site increases your visibility, meaning someone who needs you might ask
a question or request an introduction to someone you know. Never discount the value of a favor in the bank. What goes around… well, you know.
be fairer than thou with regards to the issues of serving that people.” President Obama has spoken strongly on race. Even recently during the National Urban League 100th Anniversary Conference, he spoke strongly on the Sherrod case, receiving applause when he said, “The full story she was trying to tell –- a story about overcoming our own biases and recognizing ourselves in folks who, on the surface, seem different -– is exactly the kind of story we need to hear in America.” He has also received rousing standing ovations at the NAACP’s centennial conference in New York and at the Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference last year. At these functions, he spoke almost predominately on issues from a race perspective. But, some say that just speaking on the issues are not enough. Others disagree that President Obama should take leadership in dealing with America’s race issues. Among those is Harvard Law Professor Charles Ogletree, founding and executive director of the Charles Hamilton Houston Institute for Race and Justice. “I don’t think it’s as important for the president to lead us in these discussions as it is for us to address some of these issues personally,” says Ogletree, who just last year, represented Black Harvard
professor Skip Gates in his run-in with a white Cambridge police officer. The public debacle ended with a so-called “beer summit” at the White House. With African American representatives from every segment of “an increasingly divisive society,” Ogletree says, “at some point we need to realize that this movement starts from the bottom up.” He adds that Blacks who are economically able should personally concentrate on helping others. This must happen outside the White House, he said. “We have to have our own new Black renaissance movement,” Ogletree says. “And we have to be much more focused on the unity of us all.” But, Dr. Ron Walters, a political analyst and racial politics expert, says because of the gravity of the race issue in America and the fact that the problem is prone to grow, the issue must be dealt with by the White House. “There needs to be, in the White House structure, someone with credibility to handle outreach to the Black community. I’m talking about the staff. He’s given that to Valerie Jarrett. But, nobody knows who Valerie Jarrett is,” Walters says. “The second thing is that his staff needs to respect race as a dynamic issue in American society and culture and politics that will confront them at every step
of the way. This is not a side issue. It is the most dynamic issue in American society and he is Black, which means his approach to it has to have the same respect as other issues,” added Walters. Arnwine, who has participated in issues meetings at the White House, says the President is never there. “So, that means that everything we say; everything we try to communicate is getting filtered by somebody else’s voice to him,” Arnwine said. Clinton was different in that he would often show up and even disagree with his staff and side with civil rights leaders, she described. Instead, she says, the Obama administration has “a lot of people who believe that it is their duty to protect the president. I think that’s one of the problems – that they’ve insolated him. … Therefore you get this interaction where nobody can tell you what they’re going to do. They can’t commit to anything.” Notwithstanding the need for a person or staff on race, Bailey says, there are other steps Obama can take to at least connect more with the Black community. “He has to work harder to avoid the isolation of the White House and connect with the hard-felt sentiments of the people in the streets,” Bailey says. “Just like he’s vacationed in Florida and in the Gulf to show his empathy, he’s got to
come off the vineyard and get out into the community and
feel those people too and relax and vacation.”
Julie Desmond has fifteen years’ experience in recruiting and career consultation. She currently leads job search and career planning workshops in Minneapolis, St Paul and Edina, MN. Write to julie@ insightnews.com.
Page 4 • August 16 - August 22, 2010 • Insight News
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EDUCATION Preparing to make this school year a great year Superintendent Column By Bernadeia H. Johnson MPS Superintendent We are busy preparing to welcome students in grades 1-12 back to school on August 30 and welcome our new kindergarten students on September 1.
Families often ask me what they can do to help their children do their very best. Families play a critical role in their child’s academic progress. You can help your child prepare to learn each day. Help your child get ready in the morning so he or she arrives on time and ready to learn. Ask your child what he or she learns in school each day. Set aside time each night to help your child with his or her homework. Visit the open house at your
child’s school before the first day. Your child will come to school confident and eager to succeed. We are working hard to make every school a great school. That means every classroom has an effective teacher, every school has a strong principal and every staff member shares the same high expectations for all students. How will we make that happen? We have a plan to deliver on this promise and it starts with clear priorities. My chief priority this school year is to develop a more tightly-
aligned system of curriculum, instruction, and assessment. What students are taught, how they are taught and how they are measured is the foundation of a system of great schools. All three of these elements will be consistently implemented at schools district-wide. That means that no matter which Minneapolis Public School your child attends, you will encounter a predictable and consistent curriculum. That means academic rigor regardless of where you live and where you choose to send your child to
school. To accomplish this, I am going to make sure that teachers have time to plan for their lessons. This is critical. I also want to recognize our very best teachers and hold them up as models for what effective teaching looks like. We have many talented and accomplished educators in our midst. And that is where family comes in again. I hope you will take some time early this fall, as soon as school starts, to get to know your school’s principal
and your child’s teachers. Open lines of communication between families and teachers make for a better education. This is a chance to celebrate your child’s successes and to identify and correct small issues before they become big ones. With our focus squarely where it should be – on the classroom and learning – and your involvement in your child’s education, I am confident that 2010-11 will be an exceptional year in the Minneapolis Public Schools.
Sylvia Booker Little: Unsung She-ro both children and for the senior citizens. She could retire, but she still keeps helping people. Mrs. Little believes that all children should learn about their history and culture. She learned that her ancestors came from South Africa many, many years ago and that her family is part of the Zulu culture. Keep up the good work Mrs. Little!
By Karriona Drain and Davant Moore So many children are unaware of the examples of great leadership, knowledge and sacrifice that so many men and women have made in Minneapolis’ African American communities. Every week WE WIN Institute brings in a new African leader from the Twin Cities to teach the children about what they do and how they have made a difference in the world. Children had the opportunity to learn about Sylvia Booker Little who is an opera singer, mother and advocate for children and seniors. Students read a biography of Little, answered questions and drew pictures of her. Little talked about her life, experiences as an opera singer, and her mission in life, which is to help feed the hungry and assist youth in realizing their dreams. She offered any child in the program who helps with training their voices or needed extra help learning the piano that she would be willing to work with them. Children listened to music and watched a video of Little in concert. Children had an abundance of questions to ask her including, “What do you like most about music?” and, “Was it hard to learn
Photo courtesy WE WIN Institute
Sylvia Little seated in the middle with students of WE WIN Institute. Davant Moore, student to the right, in front of Mrs. Little in the t-shirt and Karriona Drain standing behind Moore with the blue and white key chain around her neck wrote about their Unsung-She-roe. how to play the piano at such a young age?” Little had a great time answering questions and telling the children more exciting facts about herself. Two students, Karriona Drain and Devante Moore shared what they learned about Sylvia B. Little. Sylvia Booker Little By: Karriona Drain Sylvia Booker Little was born in Sioux Falls, SD on April 22, 1930. She was one of the first African American children to be born in Sioux Falls. When Mrs. Little went to elementary, junior high, she was the only Black person in all of her classes. In high school there were only 4 Black students and 2 of them were her brothers.
Mrs. Little loves music; when she was four-years-old, she started playing the piano. I would love to learn how to play the piano. Mrs. Little said she would like me to learn it. Mrs. Little also loves to sing. She has been asked to sing all over Minnesota and the United States. At Sabathani Community Center in south Minneapolis, she sang for Coretta Scott King. I think it would have been really cool if I could have sang for Mrs. King before she died. Mrs. Little was honored with a proclamation from the city of Minneapolis and by the state of Minnesota for all the great work she has done for the last 80 years. I am so proud of all she has done to make things better for
Sylvia Booker Little By: Davant Moore, 8-years-old My first time meeting Sylvia B Little was the best day ever. This is because she is Ms. Titilayo Bediako’s mom; Ms. Bediako is the director of WE WIN Institute. Mrs. Little helps support WE WIN. She works with the Greater Country Food Bank. Mrs. Little makes sure that senior citizens get food every single week. She also makes sure that kids at WE WIN get food, too. It makes her feel bad when people are hungry. Mrs. Little has met famous people like Maya Angelou, Coretta Scott King, President Jimmy Carter and Vice President Joe Biden. Mrs. Little can also sing Opera really good. She has sang for many people including former governor Jesse Ventura. The most important message that Mrs. Little gave us is that children should never give up on their dreams and that we should always give our best. I might ask Mrs. Little to teach me some songs on the piano. Mrs. Little really cares about people and I think it is great that she makes sure people always have food to eat. She thinks that it is great that WE WIN Institute has a garden and that lots of food comes from it.
Target, Salvation Army help prepare 300 kids for school Target and the Twin Cities Salvation Army took 300 kids shopping for back-to-school clothes last Tuesday, Aug. 10, at Target locations in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Brooklyn Park, Chaska, Monticello and Stillwater. The event was part of Target School Spree, a nationwide effort in which 12,000 kids received an $80 Target Gift Card to purchase new clothes at nearly 500 Target stores. Each child shopped with a Salvation Army volunteer. Most of the children and their families are regularly served by Salvation Army operation centers across the Twin Cities. “We appreciate Target and their shared commitment to improving the lives of children and their families,” said Major
Suluki Fardan
Sgt. Stephanie Weibye, Khamena T., Joanna G., and Jessica G. Darryl Leedom, commander of the Twin Cities Salvation Army. “Giving the kids new clothes increases their self-esteem and helps ensure they start the new
school year ready to learn. It also relieves financial stress on parents, allowing them to free up resources for food, housing and other essentials.”
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Insight News • August 16 - August 22, 2010 • Page 5
AESTHETICS
Crews on call: The Expendables interview
There was definitely a pecking order, and when Stallone walked in, we were like, “All hail!” He came in with his big forearms, pointing and telling everybody where he wanted the cameras with his big cigar ablazing, and you just go, “This is Stallone!” with admiration, because none of us would be here without this guy. That’s the thing, he changed movies forever. And remember how he wrote the first Rocky in a few days, and wouldn’t sell the script even though he was starving, because they wanted to put somebody else in the lead role. To see what he’s accomplished, dog, that’s what it’s all about.
Film Review By Kam Williams kam@insightnews.com Hailing from Flint, MI, Terry Crews has not only one of the most recognizable faces around, but maybe one of the most recognizable physiques as well. The handsome hunk is currently one of the busiest actors in Hollywood, having a trio of flicks released in August alone, namely, The Expendables, Lottery Ticket and Middle Men. He’s also starring in “Are We There Yet,” the hit, new TV sitcom airing on the TBS Network. Prior to entering showbiz, Crews attended Western Michigan University where he blossomed into a football phenom as a walk-on. Senior year, he was drafted by the San Diego Chargers, and then went on to enjoy a six-year career in the NFL. Since retiring from pro football, Crews has already compiled over 40 screen credits, including memorable performances mostly flexing his pecs in Training Day, Terminator Salvation, Street Kings, Get Smart, Idiocracy, Balls of Fury, Gamer, Starsky & Hutch, The Longest Yard, Deliver Us from Eva, Friday after Next, White Chicks, Malibu’s Most Wanted, Click and The Benchwarmers. And on TV, he’s appeared on “The District”, “My Wife and Kids”, “CSI: Miami”, “All of Us” and “Everybody Hates Chris”. Crews and his wife, Rebecca, a former beauty queen and Christian recording artist, recently celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary. The couple lives in L.A. where they are raising their five children. Kam Williams: Hey, Terry, thanks again for some time. Terry Crews: Oh, you got it, my man, how’re you doin’? KW: Very well, thanks. Gee, your career has really taken off since the last time we spoke. TC: Brother, I’m hustling! KW: Well, you deserve all the success that’s been coming your way. It’s especially great to see you get a chance to exhibit your range playing a lead in your very own sitcom after being typecast a lot in beefcake roles. TC: Thank you. It feels kind of weird because I feel like I’ve got this market all to myself right now, at least until some bigger dude comes along who’s funnier. They don’t even have a big, buff white guy with his own sitcom right now. KW: Do you feel a little funny playing Nick on “Are We There Yet”, given that the role was originated by the show’s executive producer, Ice Cube,
KW: Did you learn anything from working with him? TC: Yeah, he took me under his wing, and showed me a lot of what being a star is all about. It’s really about humility. He works the hardest. Like they say, “To be king of all, you must be servant of all.” He was out there doing everything.
Terry Crews in The Expendables who is also in the cast? TC: Yeah, at first, I felt a little funny when I got the call saying they wanted me to play Nick who Cube played, because a lot of people liked that movie and I just didn’t want to be the one to mess it up. But the fact is, Cube has been validating me by letting me know that, “We want you to be you, just be Terry Crews and do what you do.” And the bonus of having him acting in the series kind of validates it and gives the show his stamp of approval. KW: So, you’re not intimidated by the presence on the set of the actor who originated the role? TC: No, no, never, never. The only thing intimidating
about Cube is that he’s the father of gangsta’ rap. You just worry about getting your lines right, or he might shoot you. [Laughs] KW: How’s it working opposite Essence Atkins who plays your wife? TC: Let me tell you, I always wanted to work with Essence ever since seeing the way she was doing comedy in Dance Flick. She’s so gorgeous, you had to wonder whether she’s willing to get a little ugly and whether I was getting a person I could really bounce off of. But she’s been great! And I just really feel blessed to be working with this entire cast and crew, it’s been like a family.
KW: Well, one of your three movies opening this month is The Expendables, co-starring Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Mickey Rourke, Jason Statham, Stone Cold Steve Austin, Jet Li, Dolph Lundgren, Bruce Willis and Randy Couture. I’ve never seen so much beefcake in one movie.
Lionsgate Publicity
TC: I’m telling everybody, “Bring your deodorant to the theater, because it’s going to be funky from all those dudes in there.” [Laughs] KW: Was it a nightmare on the set with so many big egos to juggle? TC: No, it was awesome! Look, there are egos everywhere.
KW: How was it making Lottery Ticket? TC: I have the greatest appreciation for [producers] Matt Alvarez and Ice Cube. They put me in Friday after Next, and now this, which I hope is just the start of a long, wonderful relationship. I love the urban comedies, because they keep you famous, keep you having fun, and keep you in love with the business. Those are my roots. I’ll always
CREWS TURN TO 7
Page 6 • August 16 - August 22, 2010 • Insight News
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HEALTH New NMA president to tackle health care disparities By NNPA Staff WASHINGTON (NNPA) Leonard Weather Jr., M.D., R.Ph. has been named the 111th president of the D.C.-based National Medical Association, an organization representing more than 30,000 Black physicians around the nation and their patients. Taking office in the era of health care reform, Weather, a gynecologist who practices in both New Orleans and Shreveport, LA, has three key areas of focus in addition to the traditional role of the NMA president of eliminating health care disparities. Minority women’s health, attention to the effects of the environment on minority health, and relief for African American physicians who are struggling economically will be additional issues that he will tackle. “I’m very concerned about health care disparities, and one of the issues that is pervasive, of course, is health care reform. The health care legislation does have a major effect on us,” Weather said. “It’s not perfect, but it’s certainly better than what we had.” Weather knows that these ongoing problems will not be solved quickly, but strategically over time. He says that educating physicians and patients is the solution as well as cooperation with schools, churches and other community organizations.
The issue of women’s health is actually a family health issue because of the role of women in their families. “If you have a healthy woman or mother, then we’re assured to more likely have a healthy family,” Weather said. “If we look at the mothers, in many instances a low birth-weight child or if the child’s healthy — that may be a reflection on what the mother eats or doesn’t eat.” Diet is an important part of women’s health, he said, because obesity is too prevalent, and obesity leads to many other health issues. “We have to change this epidemic. It’s pervasive,” Weather said. “If you start looking at what’s involved if the woman is obese, it also links us to other illnesses — diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease. The No. 1 killer in women is cardiovascular disease, and that many times is a reflection of the diet.” People’s health often reflects their environments, he said. Many neighborhoods are “food deserts” with too many foods and drinks saturated with sugars, and too few healthy fruit, vegetable and milk options. In addition, smoking and mental health are also problems that should be addressed. “Endometriosis and infertility are linked to obesity,” Weather said. “People need to know that a high BMI is not acceptable for African American women, and
Dr. Leonard Weather we need to educate them more about what BMI means and what being obese means. Many African American women kind of feel that in lieu of being obese, ‘I’m just overweight.’ “If a better diet was pushed and promoted to the community, to the churches and through various schools, I think we’d
Photo courtesy NNPA
have a tremendous advantage in terms of decreasing obesity, and also decreasing cardiovascular disease, hypertension and premature death.” As a resident of Louisiana, with its many oil refineries, the devastation of hurricane Katrina, and the recent oil spill, environmental issues are also a
hot button for Weather. Research shows that millions of people live in houses and attend schools short distances from toxic waste sties and refineries. Respiratory ailments, endometriosis and bleeding problems are on the increase among AfricanAmericans, he said. “The numbers of children with respiratory problems and inhalers are up. They’ve never been like this before,” Weather said. “It’s an amazing thing, and I think clearly we need to be cognizant of this. The Agency for Toxic Substance and Disease Registry has a map that you can use to identify where all the various toxic waste sites are located. I truly feel that every state society of NMA should know what’s in their communities. “So looking at environmental health, we clearly need to look at the causes of cancer, and even look at attention deficit problems, because that’s been linked,” he said. The third major issue Weather hopes to address is the problems facing African American physicians. Even though 12 percent of the U.S. population is African American, only 4 percent of physicians are African American. More support of medical programs at traditional schools for African American physicians — Morehouse College of Medicine, Howard University and Meharry Medical College — is needed. “More money is put for
research and technology and less money to those schools that actually favor or have a devoted interest in producing primary care physicians, which is really what we need,” Weather said, adding that with 32 million more people expected to have better access to care under health system reform, more primary care physicians are needed. And when those physicians enter practice, they face great financial burdens, such as paying student loans, increasing malpractice insurance premiums and declining reimbursements for treating Medicare and Medicaid patients. “We have to protect and inform our physicians about the various insults that are taking place,” Weather said. “The better that physicians are treated so they can sustain themselves, then the quality of care is enhanced.” A driver for this change is the health system reform legislation approved by Congress. “We have to look at the good parts of it, magnify it and accept it,” Weather said of the legislation. “The parts that are not acceptable — we have to try to eliminate those things. “We have to improve on the law as it’s being implemented. This is what our task is with health care reform for the sake of our physicians, our patients and, of course, the communities. This is something we must do and shall do to fight for the underserved and our doctors.”
Colorectal cancer awareness: What you should know (NNPA) - We’re all familiar with messages like this one: “Men and women aged 50 and older should have regular colorectal cancer screening tests.” We read this message in our community newspapers and hear it on television and radio, and we even see celebrities like Morgan Freeman speaking out about the importance of colorectal cancer screening.
Why is there so much media attention on colorectal cancer screening? Well, here’s a message you might not have seen: over the last decade, in part due to increased screening, rates of new cases and deaths from colorectal cancer have been on the decline. According to the latest Annual Report to the Nation on the Status of Cancer, if current trends
continue, rates of death from colorectal cancer could drop by more than one-third by 2020. And if Americans increase use of colorectal cancer screening, adopt more favorable health behaviors, and obtain optimal treatments, the rate of death from colorectal cancer could decrease 50 percent by 2020. Mortality rates cut in half - that’s a big deal. Now all
the reminders about colorectal screening and related health behaviors make sense. Despite the improvements of the last decade, colorectal cancer remains the third most frequently diagnosed cancer in both men and women, and the second leading cause of cancer deaths, in the United States. And rates of colorectal cancer diagnosis and death are higher for African Americans than for all other racial and ethnic
groups in the United States. Colorectal cancer screening is a vital part of both prevention and early detection. Because colorectal cancer can take many years to develop, early detection and treatment of the disease greatly improve the chances of a cure. Screening also enables doctors to detect and remove abnormal colorectal growths, or polyps, before they even become cancer. According to current
guidelines, people at average risk for this disease should be screened regularly starting at age 50. If any family members have had colorectal cancer, you should talk to your doctor about when and how often you should be screened, because you are at a higher risk. Unfortunately, almost half of people aged 50 to 75 are not being screened regularly for
CANCER TURN TO 7
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Insight News • August 16 - August 22, 2010 • Page 7
Aviators are Minnesota Guard Quick Reaction Force By Sgt. 1st Class Daniel Ewer There is a new Quick Reaction Force in town. Alpha Company, 834th Aviation Support Battalion has taken over the responsibility to provide immediate security and crowd control support to the governor of Minnesota. This aviation company, having recently finished their reintegration training after a tour in Iraq, were selected to replace the existing metro-area Quick Reaction Force. Alpha Company was officially validated as the QRF in January when the Soldiers and their commanders had their responses tested in various scenarios. This is the first time a non-infantry unit has been selected as a QRF in the Minnesota National Guard. “The QRF is a big responsibility,” said 1st Lt. Bryan Peterson, the QRF Officer In Charge. “A Company had a wide variety of responsibilities during the deployment. That’s probably one reason we were chosen for this high profile mission. Initially we were unsure about this mission, but each training session we improved dramatically. The Soldiers did not give up. The soldiers rocked it!” Typical of Army training, the soldiers began with the basics. “Like anything else it was crawl, walk, run …” explained Staff Sgt. Patrick Rock, one of the QRF squad leaders. “A
Cancer From 6 colorectal cancer. And despite some gains, African Americans are still less likely to be screened than whites. If cost is keeping you from making that appointment, remember that most insurance plans help pay for colorectal cancer screening tests for people aged 50 or older. Many plans also help pay for screening tests for people younger than 50 who are at increased risk for colorectal cancer. Check with your health insurance plan to determine your colorectal cancer screening benefits. If you do not have insurance, call 1-800-4-CANCER to
Crews From 5 love doing those. KW: Is there any question no one ever asks you, that you wish someone would? TC: Wow! I think I’ve been asked almost everything. [LOL] KW: The Tasha Smith question: Are you ever afraid? TC: Yeah, I’m scared of my wife. [Chuckles] KW: The Columbus Short question: Are you happy? TC: Yes I am. I’m very happy. I’m doing what I love. KW: The Teri Emerson question: When was the last time you had a good laugh? TC: Yesterday, seeing how people were reacting at a screening. KW: The bookworm Troy Johnson question: What was the last book you read? TC: The Relationship Cure by this guy named John Gottman. It just talks about how to improve your relationship with your wife. KW: The music maven Heather Covington question: What was the last song you listened to? TC: Let’s see, it was “Forever” by Drake from that More Than a Game soundtrack. KW: The Ling-Ju Yen question: What is your earliest childhood memory? TC: Hmmm… Christmas... I think I was about four yearsold. Yeah, Christmas. KW: The Uduak Oduok question: Who is your favorite clothes designer? TC: Nana Boateng. Remember the name, He’s baaaaaad! KW: When you look in the mirror, what do you see? TC: I see a wrinkled head! [Giggles] KW: If you could have one wish instantly granted, what would that be for? TC: Wow! That we would all
small group of us were trained up on tactics and we trained the company. We started with PowerPoint briefings, then got some hands-on with the equipment. We learned striking tactics and how to employ shields.” After this initial internal training the 834 ASB demonstrated advanced civil support skills for the aviation brigade headquarters. The training was a State Active Duty Exercise with a realistic training scenario based on the potential of the Democratic National Convention coming to the capitol in 2012. In the scenario the capitol police requested National Guard support for security, crowd control and protestor intervention at a political rally event on simulated capitol grounds. Over 100 soldiers in civilian clothes were utilized as rioters, media members, and politicians. “The protestors understood they had to take the intensity to a certain level regardless of their personal politics,” remarked Col. Michael Huddleston, 34th Combat Aviation Brigade Commander who stood in as the governor of Minnesota for the demonstration. “The training was very good,” remarked Huddleston, “but there is always room for growth. More realistic training should include how to use hand cuffs and how to fill a breach. The soldier/protestors in civilian clothes were particularly effective.”
Sgt. Nicholas Olson
Alpha Company, 834th Aviation Support Battalion trained up for their new role as the Minnesota National Guard’s Quick Reaction Force during their annual training period at Camp Ripley, Minn., July 17. Photo by Sgt. Nicholas Olson
learn about free or low-cost screening options in your community. Your local health department may also have information. Under the health insurance reforms signed into law earlier this year all new private plans will provide basic preventive services such as colon cancer screening at no cost. If fear or a lack of understanding is keeping you from making that colorectal screening appointment, start by learning more about the different screening options available to you. On www. cancer.gov (search term: Colorectal Screening), you can read about screening options and compare the advantages and disadvantages of each. Typical screening options are
colonoscopy every 10 years, yearly fecal occult blood testing (FOBT), and flexible sigmoidoscopy every five years along with FOBT every two to three years, but new and potentially more comfortable screening techniques are being developed. You can also ask your doctor the following questions about screening: • Which screening tests do you recommend for me and why? • How much do the tests cost? • Will my health insurance plan help pay for screening tests? • Are the tests painful? • How soon after the tests will I learn the results? For more information about colorectal cancer, call the National Cancer Institute’s (NCI’s) Cancer Information Service toll-free
at 1-800-4-CANCER, Monday through Friday from 8 am to 8 pm EST. A trained information specialist is available to answer your questions. For those who prefer using the computer, you can also chat live with a cancer information specialist by visiting www.cancer.gov/ help. NCI staff is available via online chat from 8 am to 11 pm EST. Or you may choose to email a cancer information specialist using the form available at www.cancer.gov/ contact. Learn about all you can do to lower your risk of colorectal cancer and take control of your health. NCI leads the National Cancer Program and the NIH effort to dramatically reduce the burden of cancer and improve
be in Heaven.
means, right there.
which is very, very sad to see.
KW: What advice do you have for anyone who wants to follow in your footsteps? TC: Have resolve! Just be resilient, and never, ever, ever stop!
KW: The Mike Pittman question: Who was your best friend as a child? TC: My best friend is was a guy named Darwin Hall. And he still is my friend today.
KW: The “Realtor to the Stars” Jimmy Bayan’s question: Where in L.A. do you live? TC: Pasadena.
KW: What is your favorite dish to cook? TC: Buffalo rib-eye steaks, on the grill, is my favorite meal, seriously. It has less fat, more vitamins and more protein than beef. It is wonderful. Look, it was what the Indians ate, and they were very healthy. It’s very good meat.
KW: What is your guiltiest pleasure? TC: Dessert. [LOL]
KW: The Boris Kodjoe question: What do you consider your biggest accomplishment? TC: My family. When I look at my family, that’s all life
KW: The Laz Alonso question: How can your fans help you? TC: By just being respectful and cool. KW: What was the biggest obstacle you had to overcome in life? TC: Coming out of Flint, Michigan. I went back there recently to visit my parents. The city’s still deteriorating,
KW: The Tavis Smiley question: How do you want to be remembered? TC: As a great father. KW: Thanks again for the interview, Terry, and best of luck with all your many endeavors. TC: Thank you, Kam, it was nice speaking with you again. Take care. To become familiar with Rebecca Crews Ministries’, visit: http://www. rebeccacrews.com/
the lives of cancer patients and their families, through research into prevention and cancer biology, the development of new interventions, and the training and mentoring of new researchers.
For more information about cancer, please visit the NCI Web site at http://www. cancer.gov or call NCI’s Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER.
Page 8 • August 16 - August 22, 2010 • Insight News
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LIFESTYLE
Buying less means a clean house and saving money Style on a Dime By Marcia Humphrey marcia@insightnews.com Last Night I stayed up too late watching the addicting cable television show, “Clean House”. Hosted by the quick-witted actress, comedienne, Miss Niecy Nash, the show sets out to rescue homeowners from overflowing clutter that has taken over their homes-and their lives. The families apparently struggle with buying and hoarding, regardless of whether or not they need it. Although your home may not be a candidate for the “Clean
House” show (yet), most of us have been guilty of buying things we don’t really need or want. If left unchecked, this issue can turn your home into a dumping ground, and drain your bank account and your peace. Here are a few money-saving (and common sense) questions to ask yourself before hitting the stores and bringing more stuff into your living space. Can I afford it? If you take home the stylish high-heeled strappy shoes, will it mean that you will be $30 short on your electric bill? If the answer is “yes” then you can’t afford them. Maybe you are not to that extreme. While you would never dream of jeopardizing your home’s electricity, did you commit to repaying that $100 loan to Aunt Bessie this week?
If so, you still can’t afford the shoes. Tip: have a little talk with yourself-and tell yourself that the shoes can wait. They’ll feel better on your feet when your priorities and conscious are clear. Do I have to buy it? Instead of creating unnecessary debt, could you borrow the item from a friend or family member? For instance, we need to power wash our deck, and were thinking of renting one (much cheaper than buying). We happened to be talking to a neighbor, and he offered to let us use his-which is even better than renting! Tap into your network of friends and neighbors. You’ll be surprised by how mutually beneficial it can be. Am I shopping with a clear mind? Have you been overly tired or
Katrina From 2 Crime Violent crimes and property crimes have risen in New Orleans since Katrina and remain well above national rates.
depressed lately? If so, it could definitely affect your shopping habits. Some people use shopping to distract from their real issues. Especially if you are considering a major purchase, rather than buying on the spot, give yourself time to consider it overnight. After a restful sleep, you be better able to make a wise decision. Just because the merchandise
is 90% off, it doesn’t mean you have to buy it-as tempting as that may be for us. When you do bring new stuff into your home, make sure it has a place to reside. If not, then clear out other, unused items, declutter, and simplify your living space. Not long ago, many of us seemed to be falling into the supersizing trap: more stuff, bigger houses, and bigger vehicles. Then suddenly, our
The challenges of postKatrina New Orleans reflect the problems of many urban and suburban areas of the US – insufficient affordable rents, racially segregated schools with falling populations, great disparities in income by color of households, serious pollution from remote uncaring corporations, and reductions in the public services like
transportation. Katrina made these more visible five years ago and continues to make a great illustration of America’s failures to treat all citizens with dignity and its failure to achieve our promise of liberty and justice for all. Bill Quigley is legal director of the Center for Constitutional Rights and a law professor
economy gave us an unexpected reality check. One of the hidden blessings is this: instead of trying to “live large,” more of us are trying to “live well.” Enjoy! Marcia Humphrey is an interior decorator and home stager who specializes in achieving high style at low costs. A native of Michigan, she and her husband, Lonnie, have three children. at Loyola University New Orleans; Davida Finger is also a law professor at Loyola University New Orleans; Lance Hill is executive director of the Southern Institute for Education and Research at Tulane University. They can be reached at quigley77@gmail. com; dfinger@loyno.edu; and lhill@tulane.edu respectively.
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Insight News • August 16 - August 22, 2010 • Page 9
Waters, Rangel downplay race in investigations
By Hazel Trice Edney NNPA Editor-in-Chief “People are speculating all kinds of things,” Waters said in an August 6 interview with the NNPA News Service. “There is one thing that I am clear about though. I am clear that if this gets obscured with any other argument before we get our facts out, we don’t stand a chance because people will say we’re hiding behind race or something. So, I think what has to happen is the charges have to be clear, we have to have our day in court and then let’s deal with the process and how the system is working or not working.” At NNPA deadline, Waters awaited enumeration of charges involving the receipt of $12 million in bailout funds by the Massachusetts-based One United Bank, where her husband owns stock. Rangel faces 13 charges involving reporting of income on his financial disclosure forms and alleged fund-raising violations. Rangel is moving on with campaigning for re-election to the office he has held since 1971. He is being challenged by Adam Clayton Powell IV. Rangel succeeded his grandfather, Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. “Do I believe the case is racially motivated? No.
Primary
From 1 Entenza each raised less than $1 million but spent more than $4 million of their own money to get to DFL voters. While Entenza ignited the urban and youth vote in a strategy that we call urban/rural, by contrast, Dayton pursued and gain elderly voters’ support in a strategy focused first on rural voters, then urban elders. Anderson Kelliher suffered, some observers say, from over reliance on the middle, not reaching out to elders or youth, and not having a solid base of financial support from the DFL
So, I’d like to acknowledge my re-election which I’m concentrating on,” Rangel said in a message left on the NNPA voice mail. “And the hearing date has not been set, so that’s about the size of it.” The fact is that of 30 probes considered since late last year, the only members considered for full-fledged investigations have been CBC members. So far, Rangel and Walters are the only two to face charges. This has drawn charges of racism from pundits, Black journalists and publishers. Both Rangel and Waters have been icons for Black justice in Congress and pioneers for programs to help the poor and underserved. “If It Sounds Like Racism and Acts Like Racism, Then It is Probably Racism,” states the headline on a commentary written by NNPA Chairman Danny J. Bakewell, Sr. and published on the NNPA News Service. Political Scientist Ron Walters says it seems both Waters and Rangel would politically embrace the racial allegations given their Black constituencies. Her 35th Congressional District is about 35 percent Black; about 10 percent White and the rest predominately Latino. His Harlem-based district is predominantly Black. “But they don’t want race to get in the way of the facts,” Walters
Rep. Charles Rangel (D-NY) says. Both Rangel and Waters acknowledge the support from
Black newspapers and other leaders for justice. “I thank the NNPA for the
DEMOCRATIC-FARMER-LABOR
TOTALS
PCT
Margaret Anderson Kelliher and John Gunyou Peter Idusogie and Lady Jayne Fontaine Matt Entenza and Robyne Robinson Mark Dayton and Yvonne Prettner Solon
175782 3134 80502 182681
39.76 0.71 18.21 41.32
Party that would allow her to distinguish her candidacy in a field of high profile players. To their credit, Anderson Kelliher and Entenza closed ranks behind Mark Dayton hours after Dayton’s win became clear, committing themselves and their supporters to a unified DFL campaign, supporting Mark Dayton against Independent Party primary winner, Tom Horner, and against Republican party endorsee, Tom
Emmer. In other primary election races, former St. Paul Police Chief John Harrington, is in line to become the first African American to win a seat in the Minnesota Senate since Robert Lewis represented St. Louis Park in the Senate in the 1970s. If Harrington wins the November General Election, he will be the first African American elected to the Senate from a district with a sizable
File Photo
population of people of color. St. Paul was the scene of another election upset. TakeAction MN-endorsed Rita Moran defeated DFL-endorsed Jeremiah Ellis to gain the DFL nomination to House seat 65A, a seat formerly held by Cy Thao, who said he would not seek reelection. As in the Anderson Kelliher defeat, the Ellis defeat raises questions about the value of a DFL endorsement, when,
supportive work that they’ve done and Mr. Bakewell has been terrific. Thank you,” he said in the voice mail. “You guys are doing fine. Just keep doing what you’re doing,” says Waters, expressing her respect for the First Amendment. “Other people need to have the opportunity to say what they think. We have to have a chance to get our story out,” she said. “If we don’t have a chance to get our story out, we don’t stand a chance. And so let other people speculate. But for us, we just have to deal with our facts and let those chips fall where they may.” Waters is pushing for a speedy trial long before the November 2 election in which she faces Black Republican homeless activist Ted Hayes. He is not considered to be a formidable candidate or a threat to her seat. But, her reputation and the truth are still concerns, she says. “I am deeply concerned by the Committee’s failure to announce a date for a public hearing in its most recent press release,” she wrote in a letter to Reps. Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) and Jo Bonner (R-AL), chair and ranking member of the ethics panel. “I feel strongly that further delay in the scheduling of the hearing violates the fundamental principles of due process, denies my constituents
the opportunity to evaluate this case, and harms my ability to defend my integrity.” CBC Chairwoman Barbara Lee (D-CA) is standing with Waters as she has with Rangel. “Throughout her tenure in Congress, and in the California State Legislature before that, Waters has been a tireless and effective advocate for underrepresented and underserved communities and institutions. She continues to be an important voice on those and many other issues and should not have her rights usurped by politicians or the press,” Lee wrote in a statement. Lee says the media has appeared to try to convict Waters before the trial, an appearance that is particularly frustrating to Waters. “The media doesn’t even have the story yet. The facts are not out yet,” she said in the NNPA interview. “And that’s why I have asked that the charges be put forth and that we have an opportunity to respond to them and have a fair proceeding in which all the facts are laid out.” She is emboldened by the longstanding support for her and her legacy. “We have a lot of support out there. People want to know what’s happening,” she said. “We will be fighting both legally and politically.”
in the past, such endorsement was tantamount to election in Minnesota contests. In Minneapolis, incumbent Linda Higgins beat back a challenge from Troy Parker, who still showed respectably the 27% of votes compared to over 68% for Higgins. In Hennepin County, 2nd District Commissioner, Mark Stenglein, who has declared himself a DFLer and received DFL endorsement for this contest, enjoyed a commanding victory, garnering 71% of the vote in a non-partisan primary contest. Minneapolis DFL voters nominated Richard Mammen for one of two at-large seats on the Minneapolis School
Board. But he still has to vie in November with three other candidates: incumbent T. Williams, education activist Chandra Baker-Smith and newcomer Kathy Gagnon, both of whom outpolled Williams in the primary. The race that bears close watch is the Brooklyn Park city council race that is placing Boyd Morson in contention. Morson came in second in a field of 5, his numbers likely diminished by another Black candidate. The possibility of Morson reaching out to immigrant African voters, as well as African American and other dissatisfied residents, can mean Brooklyn Park will elect its first Black City Council Member.
Page 10 •August 16 - August 22, 2010 • Insight News
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COMMUNITY
Events Send Community Calendar information to us by: email, ben@insightnews.com, by fax: 612-588-2031, by phone: (612) 588-1313 or by mail: 1815 Bryant Ave. N. Minneapolis, MN 55411, Attn: Ben Williams. Free or low cost events preferred.
Young Writers - Aug A gathering of aspiring young poets, novelists, fiction writers, essayists and more. Open to ages 13-19. Second and Fourth Tuesday of the month 6PM 8PM at Intermedia Arts 2822 Lyndale Ave. S, Mpls. FREE!
2014 Project SUCCESS – August 23-26 Project SUCCESS, working with the Minneapolis Public School District designed a four-day event, August 23-26, aimed at helping all Minneapolis Public School 8th graders successfully transition to high school. The entire event is at NO COST to students and
PHONE: 612.588.1313 FAX: 612.588.2031 55413. Cost is $10 per person for adults, $5 per person for children 12 & under. Vegetarian option will be available.
“Ghosts of Rwanda” - Aug 24 World Without Genocide, an organization dedicated to education and advocacy to prevent genocide and mass conflict, will show the awardwinning Frontline documentary “Ghosts of Rwanda” on Tue., Aug.24, at 7pm. at the Guthrie Theater, 818 South 2nd St, Mpls. The event is free, open to the public, and no reservations are required.
incorporate dance, discussion and film clips and is led by dance icons Rokafella and Kwikstep. This workshop will be provided to the first 25 youth ages 12-19 registered for only $15. Light refreshments for youth provided. Sun., Aug. 29; 2-3:30PM For youth registration contact 612-871-4444 or email info@ intermediaarts.org.
Chocolate - The Exhibition Oct 2 - Jan 2 From rainforest treasure to luscious treat — immerse yourself in the story of chocolate. Minnesota History Center, 345 Kellogg Blvd W., St. Paul MN 55102-1903.
Innaviews - Youth Performance - Aug 26 This one-hour performance of Innaviews is scheduled for youth at a discounted price of $5 and will be followed by cookies and conversation with the artists. Thur., Aug. 26 7-9PM @ Intermedia Arts, 2822 South Lyndale Ave. (612) 871-4444.
African Dance / Afro Modern - Ongoing African Dance: Every Wednesday 7:00pm - 8:30pm. Live drumming by Fode Bangoura & Dan Handeen. Afro Modern: Every Thursday 5:30pm - 7:00pm. Zenon Dance Company and School, 528 Hennepin Ave. #400 Mpls. Visit http://www.zenondance. org/news.asp?news_id=503 for details & registration.
Willard-Homewood Block Club Leaders (and Residents) Meetings – Ongoing Every third Thursday of the month, 6:30-8:00 pm at Northpoint Health & Wellness Center, 1315 Penn Ave. N. (Human Services Building, not the clinic), Mpls., Room 108. See the block club page at www. willard-homewood.org.
Gospel Phat Fashion Show & Glow Concert
Knockin Down Hunger Spaghetti Dinner/Bowling Event - Aug 24 Bowling is at 4-6:30p.m, Buffet 5:30-7:30p.m at Elsie’s Restaurant & Bowling center: 729 Marshall St. Ne. Mpls, Mn
Wanted: Community-minded book lovers - Ongoing
2nd Annual African Arts Festival - Aug 28 Dance, music, art, fashion, food, vendors and more... Sat. Aug. 24 Noon-5pm at El Colegio Charter School, 4137 Bloomington Ave. Mpls. Adults: $5, children free.
Hip-Hop Dance Workshop led by Rokafella and Kwikstep Aug 29 This two-hour workshop will
One in seven U.S. adults lack the literacy skills necessary to enjoy great books, help their children with homework, or understand medication labels. But you can change this by volunteering with the Minnesota Literacy Council. With only two or three hours a week, your love of reading can create a stronger community. Tutor an adult learner, assist in an adult classroom, or teach a basic English or GED class. We have locations throughout the Twin Cities area, flexible scheduling and training to help you get started. Contact Allison at volunteer@themlc.org or 651-645-2277, Ext 219 or visit us on the web at www.themlc. org.
POSITION SUMMARY: This is a substitute position designed to fill in as needed on a short or long term basis for permanent teaching staff. Substitute Teacher participates in long and short range activities for students in accordance with curriculum objectives and engages students in developmentally appropriate activities. Assists with ensuring that the classroom is appropriately staffed and maintained to provide a safe and secure environment for each child. POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. Works with teaching staff to implement program curriculum and coordinate students activities. 2. Plans and supervises the arrangement of the classroom environment in accordance to program goals and philosophy. 3. Maintains a safe and healthy environment, including safely managing developmental activities for the participants. 4. Keeps all appropriate records such as records, attendance, time sheets and accident reports. 5. Maintains open communication with parents/guardians of the program participants regarding the developmental needs of the participants. QUALIFICATIONS: Education: Associates degree or equivalent in early childhood development. B.S. in Early childhood Development preferred. Licensing and Certifications: CPR and Meet all applicable licensing regulations. Valid Driver’s License and proof of insurance. Minnesota Teachers’ License (preferred). Work Experience: 5 years of Child Care Center or related experience required. Other Requirements: • Dealing with confidential information. • Tight deadlines. • Dealing with unfavorable weather conditions. • Excellent verbal and written communication skills. • Ability to work effectively with employees, colleagues and manager. • Agree to mandated child abuse reporting guidelines. • Ability to relate to children from diverse socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. To apply, send a cover letter, resume, salary requirements and references to: Hallie Q. Brown Community Center ATTN: Human Resources 270 N. Kent Street Saint Paul, MN 55102 651-224-7074-Fax hr@hallieqbrown.org
On Wednesday, Aug. 11, the Muslim community in Minnesota and around the world began the month-long fast of Ramadan (rom-a-don), the 9th month of the Islamic lunar calendar during which Muslims abstain from food, drink and other sensual pleasures from dawn to sunset. Because the beginning and end of Islamic lunar months depend on the sighting of the new moon and different communities use varying methods to determine the moon-sighting, the start and end dates for Ramadan may vary. The fast is performed to exercise discipline, selfrestraint and generosity, while obeying God’s commandments. Traditional sweet treats Fasting (along with the prepared with honey, filo, declaration of faith, daily dates and powdered sugar are prayers, charity, and pilgrimage commonly used to break the to Mecca) is one of the “five fast during Ramadan. Photo by Navy Petty Officer 1st Class pillars” of Islam. Local mosques host Katherine Hofman iftars (fast-breaking meal) on a daily basis, as well as other social activities. Mosques also have special prayers, called taraweeh, after the daily nighttime prayer. In the last odd-numbered nights of Ramadan, Muslims mark Lailat ulQadr (“Night of Power” or “Night of Destiny”). On Friday, August 20 at 7:30 pm, CAIR-MN will hold its annual Community Ramadan Dinner at the Mounds View Community Center, 5394 Edgewood Drive, Mounds View, MN 55112. CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.
Touch Kickball at Phelps Park – Ongoing Come and play TOUCH kickball with your family & friends June 27 - Aug. 22 (except the 4th of July). 4:00 every Saturday at PHELPS PARK, 39th & Chicago Ave. More information: 612-824-4900, kelley01@visi. com.
Neighborhood Development Center business workshops – Ongoing NDC is a non-profit that works to empower low-income Twin Cities communities through successful entrepreneurship. Visit www.ndc-mn.org or call 651-291-2480 for information. Workshops are free.
Credit Smart – Ongoing FREE class explains how to manage credit. Tuesdays from 6–8 pm at the Minneapolis Urban League, Glover-Sudduth Center, 2100 Plymouth Ave. N., Minneapolis. To RSVP call Theresa at 612-827-9268.
HIV/AIDS prevention and awareness workshops – Ongoing To schedule a workshop, contact the Minneapolis Urban League at (612) 302-3100 and ask for our case management services program.
African Dance with Whitney. Sat. 1-2:30pm $12 Jawaahir Studios 1940 Hennepin Ave. Mpls.
Are you interested in visiting homebound or isolated elders in their homes and helping with transportation for appointments or errands? If so, the Senior Companion Program would like to match you with people in the community who need a little extra help to stay in their homes. Senior Companion volunteers earn a tax-free stipend, mileage reimbursement, training and liability insurance while serving. Volunteers must be 55 or older and serve 15 hours a week. For more information, contact Ron Urbanski with the Senior Companion Program of Lutheran Social Service at 651310-9445 or at ron.urbanski@ lssmn.org.
Hazelden Offers Free Educational Opportunity Ongoing Concerned about someone’s alcohol or drug use? Addressing Concerns Together (ACT), Hazelden’s new outreach program, can help. Join us for a free event to learn more about addiction, intervention, assessment, and treatment. Hazelden’s St. Paul campus, 680 Stewart Ave., St. Paul. 2nd and 4th Mon. of each month at 6pm. This is an open event and there is no need to register. If you have questions, please contact Hazelden at 800-257-7800.
Sabathani Farmers Market Ongoing Get to Know Guild – Ongoing Hear from individuals served, family members, and staff about the work Guild Incorporated is doing to help people move along their paths of recovery. To RSVP or for more information, call George Broostin at 651-925-8454. Visit www.
Every Wednesday, 3:30-6:30pm. @ Sabathani Community Center 310 E. 38th St. Mpls, MN 55409 Tel: 612-827-5981
New Saturday African dance class with Whitney - NowAugust
accompaniment. Every Tuesday 5:30-7pm Patrick’s Cabaret 3010 Minnehaha Ave. S. $17 per class, $150 - 10 class card, $5 Drum rental - Must call or email ahead if renting a drum (651338-5409).
Minnesota’s Waiting Children Free Information Sessions Ongoing Downey Side…families for youth invites community members to attend a FREE information session regarding adoption and Minnesota’s Waiting Children. Sessions are held every third Tuesday of the month from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at Downey Side’s St. Paul office located in the Bigelow Building at 450 No. Syndicate Street – Suite 380.
West African Drumming with Fode Bangoura - Ongoing
Classic Black films at VOA Park Elder Center – Ongoing
Learn traditional rhythms from Guinea West Africa. This is an open level class that will teach beginners basic technique and foundations of hand drumming while offering experienced drummers the opportunity to broaden their repertoire and learn challenging
First and third Mondays of each month, 11 am - 12:15 pm. These films are free of charge and the public is invited. Popcorn, hotdogs and drinks are provided for a suggested donation of $1. VOA Park Elder Center, 1505 Park Ave. Mpls. 612-339-7581, parkcenter@voamn.org
CLASSI C LAS SIFI FIE EDS DS
Hallie Q. Brown Community Center Substitute Teacher DEPT: Early Learning Center SUPERVISED BY: Youth Program Manager TITLES SUPERVISED: N/A FLSA: Non-Exempt SALARY GRADE: $10-13/hour
guildincorporated.org/events. htm for more info.
Senior Companions Make a Difference - Ongoing
Refuge Christian Center (RCC) youth will release the Gospel Phat clothing line, T-Shirts, Skullies, Hoodies, and Jogging suits for men and women at the Clothing Line Release & Glow Concert on August 21, 2010 at Refuge Christian Center, 225 Cleveland Ave South in St. Paul. Doors open at 6:30pm. Event Time: 7:00-8:30pm. Free Will Offering. Experience the newly released fashion line glowing in the dark and an opportunity to purchase apparel, wristbands and glow necklaces. This is a fashion show and musical concert for the whole family. Founded by Pastor Marcus Cage, RCC has a seven-year history and is invested in growing spiritual seeds in youth and community through leadership, entrepreneurial development, and artistic expression. For more info: pastorcage@msn.com or 763-607-8544.
families. To register, go online at www.projectsuccess.org and click on the 2014 logo, call 612-874-7710, or email 2014@ projectsuccess.org.
Minnesota Muslims begin Ramadan
EMAIL: ben@insightnews.com ONLINE: www.insightnews.com
PHONE: 612.588.1313
FAX: 612.588.2031
EMAIL: sales@insightnews.com
Education Liaison The Minnesota Office of Higher Education, a cabinet-level state agency, is seeking an individual to serve as a Middle/High school Education Liaison for its early college awareness program, Get Ready/ GEAR UP. Candidates must possess, at a minimum, a bachelor’s degree, at least two years of classroom experience delivering curriculum/presentations, and youth development experience with children ages 11-18. Applicants with teaching certificates/ degrees, school counseling backgrounds, and/or experience teaching English as a second language are encouraged to apply. Job description and application instructions are available at www.ohe.state.mn.us/jobs or call (651) 259-3941.
EMPLOYMENT/HOUSING Townhomes Available Fieldcrest in Moorhead, MN Rent based on 30% of income 2 & 3 bdroms open MetroPlains Management 701-232-1887 w w w. m et r o p l a i n s management.com
Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action
Mid-MN Legal Assist Exec Dir Mid-MN Legal Assist (MMLA). MMLA is an urban-rural prog serv 20 counties in central MN, incl Mpls, on poverty law issues, and the entire state on disability law and legislative issues. The posn is located in Mpls. Ideal candidate will have personal qual that incl integrity, commitment to MMLA’s mission, respect for diversity and the ability to inspire and motivate. Must be a strategic thinker, with a demonstrated commitment to low-income and disadvantaged people’s issues; possess mngmt and litigation exp and be able to lead, motivate, and dev staff. More info: www.midmnlegal.org/jobs.
Thank you for your business
Employer
ABA Minnesota Blizzards Basketball The Minnesota Blizzards ABA Basketball Team is announcing a program for college Internships for the fall and winter. The program will consist of five teams of 5 interns each in the following areas: (1) Sales, (2) Basketball Operations. (3) Marketing (4) Public Relations (5) Business administration. Each team will have a leader and be given challenging assignments. We are looking for college students majoring in Sports Management, Business, Public Relations, Marketing Sales, Broadcasting and Event Planning. We need 20 or 25 interns working with us for a (minimum of 8 hours a week) on a part-time basis. Interns will gain valuable experience, and in most cases college credits. Interested Parties please send resume to: The Minnesota ABA Team Attn: Internship Program 10125 Crosstown Circle #200 Eden Prairie, MN 55344
GIS Specialist The City of Brooklyn Park is seeking a full-time GIS Specialist in the ITS Division/Finance Department to provide GIS application development, database maintenance, and general GIS support to all city departments; assist with the help desk and phone support; and all other ITS operations Hiring wage: $24.97-$27.00/hour plus FT benefits. City and supplemental application forms and job posting with additional information and required qualifications available on city web site or at address below. Closing date: 5 p.m., Monday, August 30, 2010. City of Brooklyn Park 5200 85th Avenue North Brooklyn Park, MN 55443 Phone: 763-424-8000 Fax: 763-493-8391 www.brooklynpark.org Equal Opportunity Employer
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Insight News • August 16 - August 22, 2010 • Page 11
SPORTS NFL legends inducted into the Hall of Fame for me to say top 10 when the man is #1. And did I mention that Rice also #1 in NFL history with the most touchdowns!!! A receiver!! Running backs even have the benefit of: 1. Not having to catch the ball for most of their touchdowns, and 2. Getting several no-brainer 1-inch, 1ft, or 1yard touchdowns, which is easy money. Brett Favre holds the NFL records for a handful of longevity-related statistics at the quarterback position, and several other quarterbacks in Favre’s performance class seem to get the most lauding as the greatest NFL player ever. That’s all beautiful for comparison except for one fact…Rice has three Super Bowl victories. Case closed. And if you want to
Mr. T’s Sports Report By Ryan T. Scott ryan@insightnews.com Many, including myself, consider Jerry Rice the Greatest Football player to ever grace an NFL field; and I do mean grace. While Rice did have a few “diva” years in the beginning of his NFL career, you don’t hear much of that because of the hard work and professionalism shown throughout Rice’s career. Typically, you can make a statement like that and it just breezes by without one really noticing the words “hard work” and “professionalism”, and really thinking about there meaning. With Rice, you must pay attention to these words (See: Rice’s legendary training regiment, and meticulous nature all the way down to his uniform), because he is one of those unique individuals who mastered the meaning of the George Washington Carver quote: “When you do common things in life in an uncommon way, you will command the attention of the World.” The only way to really compare Rice’s NFL statistical career is to compare him to some other player, in some other sport, because only a few in NFL history can even sniff (and I do mean sniff)…sniff, the statistical success Rice achieved in his career. I highlight the word “sniff” because there is one of those “sniffers” sniffin’ ‘round the Vikings current roster. I’m sure Brett Favre, said sniffer, has a nose like a bloodhound, but I have to use him as an example of why the few historically accomplished NFL souls such as himself, cannot sniff…ok I think you got it by now. To explain, Jerry Rice
Jerry Rice holds the overall NFL record for the most yards gained from scrimmage (the scrimmage line is wherever the referee places the ball for the offense), with 23, 540!!! That is 4.5 miles of catching a ball while running through some of the worlds strongest, finest athletes, who are dead set on knocking your nose in the dirt. The most important thing to keep in mind with that statistic is that Rice is a wide receiver. Wide receivers run around and wait for someone else to throw them the ball in order for them to be successful. Quarterback statistics aren’t coupled with the receivers and running backs because for the most part quarterbacks sit back and toss the ball to someone else,
and so it’s easier physically to throw a ball 1,000 times, than to run the ball 1,000 times (though the mental acumen is more difficult for the quarterback). Running backs have the ball handed to them most of the time, or at the very least are only catching the ball a short distance from the quarterback who is throwing it to them. Receivers line up the farthest from the quarterback; run through and around multiple lightning-fast behemoths; then turn their heads and look for the quarterback and ball through the forest of lightning-fast behemoths; then clear their mind of all the lurking danger so they can concentrate on catching the ball before being pummeled by a behemoth
Courtesy redfalcon.picturepush.com
running full speed at them (which many times the receiver can’t see, but can only hear the ground pounding, and behemoth grunting getting louder and louder as they near impact); and then once the receiver has caught the ball, they must have the presence of mind to start their break dance routine of spins and jukes, because the behemoths don’t care that you just went through all of that to get the doggone ball, so they still wanna break you off something vicious (and for a few million dollars I don’t blame ‘em). I go through all of that because when looking at the NFL record books, Jerry Rice is the only receiver in the top 10 for overall yards; and it’s wrong
compare Rice to anyone, it would be Wayne Gretzky…who they call The Great One. Gretzky is Canadian, so congratulations Jerry Rice, you are The Great One in American Sports. Jerry Rice is so great (at football, not “Dancing with the Stars”) that I only have space to say Emmitt Smith (#1 in yards in NFL history for a running back) had the best Hall of Fame speech, and John Randle of the Vikings, also inducted in the 2010 NFL Hall of Fame, picked on me in the weight room at Mankato too often so he gets last mention. Hope I see him so I can tell him to put some more weight on the doggone bar. That was in the 90s and my chest still hurts …but congratulations to that behemoth, too.
Page 12 • August 16 - August 22, 2010 • Insight News
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