Insight News ::: 8.20.12

Harvest Prep, Best Academy and the New Mastery School scholars return to school MORE ON PAGE 3

INSIGHT NEWS August 20 - August 26, 2012 • MN Metro Vol. 39 No. 34 • The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • www.insightnews.com

Raymond Dehn

Terra Cole

Linda Higgins

Blong Yang

Joe Mullery

Dehn edges Cole, Yang faces Higgins, Mullery prevails

Surprising results in Northside primary A night of tight races surprising results in the week’s primary elections again proved that every counts.

By Harry Colbert, Jr. Contributing Writer

and past once vote

In one of the most highlycontested races, Raymond Dehn bested Terra Cole by just 19 votes (876-857) in the DFL primary for state representative in House

District 59B with Ian Alexander in third with 627 votes. Though extremely close, the vote would not trigger an automatic recount according to Patricia Trugeon

of the Minnesota Secretary of State’s office.

Trugeon said an automatic recount is triggered when the vote margin is within one half

of one percent. The margin of votes that separated Dehn from Cole was .81 percent.

PRIMARY TURN TO 14

Homeowners facing foreclosures susceptible to predators, scams technique used to renegotiate the original terms of a home mortgage. It is much like refinancing, with the major difference being with refinancing; generally the homeowner is in good standing with the primary lender and is current on mortgage payments.

With a loan modification, the homeowner is either in or near

By Harry Colbert, Jr. Contributing Writer With the economy still depressed and unemployment relatively high – especially among AfricanAmericans – officials are warning homeowners to beware of loan modification scams.

Loan modification is a

foreclosure. Oftentimes, the homeowner is “underwater” on the loan, meaning the amount owed on the home is greater than what the home is worth.

With those in or near foreclosure, a loan modification may be the only way the homeowner can remain in the home. But Minnesota Commerce Commissioner Mike Rothman

said there are people out to prey on desperate homeowners.

Rothman said his department is stepping up its efforts to educate Minnesota homeowners and assist in finding creditable loan modification resources.

“I have a zero tolerance for those who prey on Minnesota consumers with predatory loans, phony loan modifications and

other scams,” said Rothman.

Rothman called out the outfit, Save My Home USA by name. He said the company bilked 118 homeowners out of nearly $300,000 promising loan modification assistance but did none of the sort. The Commerce

LENDING TURN TO 5

Getting fit after 60 (or at any age) The Black vote

Taken for granted by the left; ignored the by the right

By Al McFarlane Editor-in-Chief Editor’s Note: Join me, Tyrone Minor and his team of master fitness trainers, and mental health expert, Dr. Darren Moore, Ph.d., for the Chizel, Inc., Fitness Training Clinics at Urban League Family Day, Plymouth & Penn, N., 1-5pm Saturday, August 25.

Find out if getting a personal trainer is what you need to get in shape and stay fit. Our program, Getting Fit After 60, has tips for Getting Fit At Any Age. Call me if you need more information or to pre register for Free Fitness Clinics, 612-588-1313.

You may have heard me talking, on the verge of bragging, about

By Cloves C. Campbell NNPA Chairman

Master fitness trainer Tyrone Minor wanting to get fit. Some of you may have seen the video trailer done by the incomparable Twin Cities filmmaker, Alaina Lewis.

The video is called “Getting Fit After 60.” It introduces a video blog documenting my commitment to changing my

Courtesy of Tyrone Minor

lifestyle, particularly my food regimen and my fitness regimen.

MINOR TURN TO 12

The day Ghana stood still Gone to Ghana

By Cordie Aziz Columnist Last Friday, for the first time since arriving in Ghana, the streets were silent in Accra.

Market women packed up their provisions and textiles from street shops, taxi drivers took the day off and grocery stores and diplomatic missions closed

Courtesy of Cordie Aziz

Former President Rawlings and his wife at the funeral of President John Evans Atta Mills on Wednesday

Business

Back to school?

Stick with it

PAGE 4

Health

their doors. Friday was also the first time a President had died in Ghana.

President John Evans Atta Mills was the subject of controversy at times, but then again most powerful people are. He rose to power thanks to former President Rawlings.

Rawlings, was the dictator of the junta military that controlled Ghana for 11 years. When he decided to switch from fatigue to business suits, he chose Atta Mills as his Vice President. And the rest, as they say, is history.

GHANA TURN TO 6

Last week I penned an article titled “Show Me the Money.”

The article questioned whether or not the Black Vote was being taken for granted by the OBAMA campaign due to the small amount of resources allocated to the Black press and other Black entities. I also stated that the Romney campaign allocated “0” dollars to the Black press and other Black entities that I was aware of. Recently, as of this writing, I have had several conversations with various staff members from the OFA campaign. Each voiced their displeasure with the tone of my article and questioned my position on the issue. Conversely, I have still not received one reply from the Romney Campaign at all. That leads me to believe that the Romney Campaign is not taking the Black vote for granted….. they just don’t care about the Black vote period!

Let’s make sure we are putting my position in the proper perspective. At no time did I say that Black folks are not supporting our President.

At no time did I say that the Black Press did not support our President. At no time did I say that we will not support our President. What I did say and ask was, as we are less than 100

Aesthetics

Back to school wellness for kids

Carmen Ejogo: The Sparkle interview

PAGE 7

PAGE 9

Cloves C. Campbell

NNPA

days out “Show Me the Money.”

We know how the Romney Campaign feels about the Black vote, actions speak very loudly.

When Romney can go to the NAACP conference and boldly state that the first act he would make as President of the United States of America is to repeal “OBAMACARE”, it is obvious that his campaign does not care about the Black vote. That position has been crystal clear for months. If you care to argue that point….I’ll bet you $10,000 dollars I’m right.

With over $3 billion dollars being spent, I questioned why our newspapers were not being used for advertising. What I was told was that the audience our newspapers reach was not the demographic of the campaign.

CAMPBELL TURN TO 3

Full Circle Not a church, a ministry

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Insight News • August 20 - August 26, 2012 • Page 3

EDUCATION Harvest Prep, Best Academy and the New Mastery School scholars return to school After blowing away the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment II - III (MCA II-III) examinations for a second straight year, close to 1000 student scholars from Harvest Prep, Best Academy and the new Mastery School returned to school on August 13, 2012.

According to data released

serving low income and AfricanAmerican children in the state of Minnesota.

Because of the outstanding success of Harvest Prep and Best Academy, Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) have entered into a collaborative agreement with the leaders of these schools to

in Reading of 79% proficiency exceeded the statewide average as well.

African-American boys at Best Academy did even better, with a resounding 83% proficiency in Math and 82% proficiency in Reading, blowing away the statewide average

State of Minnesota’s Top Public Schools g Low Income Children Serving 90 81 77

80

72

75 71

70

66 61

Photos courtesy of Harvest Prep

K’Jeane Callender and Ms. King (Teacher Assistant)

60 50

46

40 30 20 10 0 MCA-III Mathematics Harvest

Best

Global

by the State of Minnesota Department of Education, Harvest Prep had the highest proficiency of any school in the state of Minnesota serving African-American and low income children. In fact, Harvest Prep’s test scores in Math of 81% proficiency exceeded the statewide average by almost 20 percentage points, and its scores

Campbell From 1 They believed their resources would be better utilized by targeting younger Blacks that are more inclined to use digital,

Twin Cities

HLA

FA

Higher Ground

Bluff

by 21 percentage points and 6 percentage points, respectively.

These test scores shatter the myths concerning AfricanAmerican boys.

For the second year in a row Harvest Prep and Best Academy have closed, and in fact reversed, the achievement gap, substantially exceeding the test scores of every other school

start four new Mastery Schools in Minneapolis, with the first Mastery School opening on Monday, August 13th, 2012 on the same school campus as Harvest Prep and Best Academy.

The new Mastery Schools, beginning with 165 students in grades kindergarten to second grade, will expand by one grade each year, and within 10 years will

social media and other electronic means of communication. I believe that our newspapers touch all areas and also offered those platforms in our proposal.

Let’s keep it real. The Black press has been and continues to be the most trusted source for news for Black Folks for over

100 years. When any events of significance have occurred in the Black community the Black Press has always been and continues to be the most trusted source by Black folks! Our member publications reach 19.5 million Black readers each week.

No other information outlet

Mia Kennedy, Amonye Jefferson, and Ms. Ashley Kolles (from left to right) add three more schools, providing educational opportunities for almost 2,000 low income students in Minneapolis.

The leaders and board of directors of the new Mastery Schools want to give special recognition to the strong community partnership with

Insight News and KMOJ radio station who helped promote these new educational opportunities for our children.

can make that statement. Our members, our history, our legacy and our publishers stand by the credo of Black Press. It states: The Black Press believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national antagonisms when it accords to every person regardless of race,

color creed, full human and legal rights. Hating no person, fearing no person, the Black Press strives to help every person in the firm belief that all are hurt as long as anyone is held back.

Let’s put this to an end right now. Black folks, young and seasoned, read Black

Newspapers every week. We the Black Press will continue to support the President, his campaign and his administration.

But don’t get it twisted, we will ask the questions when they need to be asked. Need I say it again….?

Page 4 • August 20 - August 26, 2012 • Insight News

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BUSINESS

Back to school? Stick with it Plan Your Career

By Julie Desmond julie@insightnews.com Ah, September! When the leaves change and the school buses come out and everyone gets new backpacks and goes back to old routines. Reality check: for some people, back-to-school is a dreaded thing. Whether the fall brings high school, college, rehab or the graduate program you have been dragging yourself through, seeing it through to the finish line, to graduation, is not always fun, easy or even imaginable. Admit it. And then try a few tricks to help yourself stick it out.

Imaginable is a key word.

Regardless of why you started, who wants you to finish or what will happen next, can you IMAGINE yourself graduating? Sketch a picture of yourself standing on a stage somewhere, in a funny cap and gown, accepting a diploma.

Seeing is believing, right? So,

PhotoXpress

if you can imagine it, you can probably do it. Whenever you think of quitting take another look at that picture, every day if you have to, to remind yourself of your goal.

Competition can be inspirational, so keep a scorecard.

You might not make it to graduation, but try to stay in longer than anyone else. Make a list of people in your program, your own name first, followed by names of five people most likely to finish, and then five or so people you think are most likely to quit.

When someone drops out, cross his name off your list. You have now gone further toward graduation than that person.

As others exit, you will see that your name is still there, top of the list, not quitting yet. Suggestion: don’t tweet your list, or even share it with anyone. This one is personal.

Enlist allies. Armies have allies, teams have managers; create your own network of people who want to see you finish.

Friends, teachers, classmates, coaches, church leaders… connect and enlist their support early on so you will know who to call when things get tough.

Run for the hydrants.

Distance runners build up stamina by alternating short and long runs. One runner I know pushes himself by going just to the next fire hydrant, and then to the hydrant after that. If getting to graduation seems too far to go, try a shorter distance: just get through today, this week, this semester. My dad was a heavy smoker in his twenties. Now 89, he says he’s still a smoker, but he just hasn’t had one in over 60 years. “I might smoke tomorrow,” he says. You might quit school tomorrow; but for today, you’re riding it out.

Finally, plan ahead. You have a picture in your mind of graduation day. What will you do after that? If you can see yourself moving on, you will begin to see that this is only one step, it is not your entire future. Do what you have to do now so you can do what you want to do later.

If you are someone who struggled to finish and made it, please write to me. I’d love to hear your success story!

Julie Desmond is IT Recruiting Manager with George Konik Associates. Write to julie@ lakeregionstaffing.com.

Central corridor marketing campaign launches with billboard and bus ads The first round of advertising to promote Central Corridor businesses affected by light rail construction began appearing last month on Saint Paul and Minneapolis billboards and Metro Transit buses.

The advertising campaign kicks off a two-year, $1.2 million initiative by the Metropolitan Council to promote businesses along the 11-mile Central Corridor during light rail construction. The rail line will be known as the Green Line. Saint Paul-based MOD & Company is conducting the ad campaign on behalf of the Metropolitan Council.

“Our goal with this ad campaign is to focus attention on the actual Central Corridor business owners, and their businesses,” said Luke

Soiseth, co-owner of MOD & Company. “We’re emphasizing the uniqueness, specialness and excellence of businesses that Twin Cities residents will not find anywhere else in our community.”

“There are outstanding businesses and business owners all along the Central Corridor, from Saint Paul to Minneapolis, so it only makes sense to feature these businesses in this campaign,” said Saint Paul Mayor Chris Coleman. “I am excited to see the launch of this campaign, and the positive business results I believe it will help generate.”

According to Soiseth, the advertising campaign will break up the 11 miles of Central Corridor into nine business “nodes,” or districts, which will

Central Corridor Campaign advertisements

campaign. Over our two-year contract, we will be equally promoting businesses in each of the designated districts.”

The businesses initially appearing in Central Corridor billboard and bus side advertising were selected based on input from community representatives to showcase a variety of Saint Paul- and Minneapolis-based businesses. Additional Central Corridor businesses will be featured in future advertising.

The first stage of the Central Corridor billboard and bus side advertising campaign features the following businesses: Saint Paul businesses Bangkok Cuisine,

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CAMPAIGN TURN TO 11 each have their own branding and advertising.

“It would be next-toimpossible to promote all 11 miles of the Central Corridor as a singular entity,” Soiseth

said. “By dividing the Corridor into business districts, each with their own unique attributes, features and businesses, we are essentially creating ‘minicampaigns’ within one larger

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Insight News • August 20 - August 26, 2012 • Page 5

Travelin’ the world lookin for somethin’ - Eurythmics, Sweet Dreams are Made of This

Artspeak

By Irma McClaurin, PhD Culture and Education Editor Sweet Dreams are made of this Who am I to disagree?

I travel the world and the seven seas.

Everybody’s lookin’ for somethin’.

INSIGHT NEWS www.insightnews.com

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

Editor-In-Chief Al McFarlane CFO Adrianne Hamilton-Butler Publisher Batala-Ra McFarlane Associate Editor & Associate Publisher B.P. Ford Vice President of Sales & Marketing Selene White Culture and Education Editor Irma McClaurin Director of Content & Production Patricia Weaver Sr. Content & Production Coordinator Ben Williams Production Intern Natalie Benz Distribution/Facilities Manager Jamal Mohamed Facilities Support / Assistant Producer, Conversations with Al McFarlane Bobby Rankin Receptionist Lue B. Lampley Staff Writer Ivan B. Phifer Insight Intern Abeni Hill Contributing Writers Cordie Aziz Harry Colbert, Jr. Julie Desmond Fred Easter Oshana Himot Timothy Houston Alaina L. Lewis Lydia Schwartz Photography Suluki Fardan Tobechi Tobechukwu Contact Us: Insight News, Inc. Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Ave. N. Minneapolis., MN 55411 Ph.: (612) 588-1313 Fax: (612) 588-2031 Member: Minnesota Multicultural Media Consortium (MMMC), Midwest Black Publishers Coalition, Inc. (MBPCI), National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) Postmaster: Send address changes to McFarlane Media Interests, Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55411.

People often ask me why I travel. And it’s only after I return home that I can truthfully answer that question. Perhaps, like the Eurythmics’ lyrics suggest, I am looking for something. And that is true, then what?

Travel, for me, is an adventure.

It is like tumbling down Lewis Carroll’s famous rabbit hole in Alice in Wonderland.

In another moment down went Alice after it [the White Rabbit], never once considering how in the world she was to get out again.

The rabbit-hole went straight on like a tunnel for some way, and then dipped suddenly down, so suddenly that Alice had not a moment to think about stopping herself before she found herself falling down a very deep well.

Travel is a trip into the unknown—a “rabbit hole” experience. You can pack your suitcase, plan an itinerary, but in the end, you never know what’s going to happen, who you will meet, if the weather will cooperate—in other words, travel is a space over which you have little control. And, if you throw in language barriers, such journeys can be very unsettling and disconcerting, or you can view them as adventures of unexpected consequences and unknown outcomes.

My most recent travels took me to Europe this time.

I accompanied a friend to an African Studies Conference in Edinburg (pronounced Edinborrro) Scotland. Hosted by the Centre for African Studies at the University of Edinburg, two topics at the conference caught my attention and stood out— studies of the Chinese in Africa and the implications of their presence on African cultures and their economic landscape, and memory studies by scholars using the recollections of aging Africans who recall the slave trade and their personal experience with it. Attendees were from Scotland, of course, but also from Paris, Ghana, South Africa, Japan—yes, there are African Studies programs in Japan, Korea, and China— Denmark, Ireland, and a small number, including us, from the United States. .

I traveled with Tricia Callender, a doctoral Sociology student at Columbia University Teachers College.

She had just returned from two years of field work in Cape Town, South Africa studying immigration and education policy issues.

Her time at the conference was spent networking and learning about research that might inform her own study.

My time was spent observing the dynamics of professional conferences where clearly we were the outsiders. I am always amazed at how “endogamous” academics are—that is generally sticking to their own kind, and not really very friendly. We did happen upon a few exceptions— the Secretariat from Malawi and the Scottish couple (Rev. Dr. Iain White and wife; he had conducted his own research on slavery and Scotland.) After the conference we relocated from the University

Lending From 1 Commissioner said Save My Home USA is no longer allowed to do business in Minnesota.

According to Rothman, during the recession nearly 136,000 Minnesota homes have fallen into foreclosure. Rothman, who was appointed to his post

by Gov. Mark Dayton, said the elderly are among the most vulnerable to lending scams.

“Talk to elderly who maybe have had a loss of their cognitive skills and help them avoid scams,” said Rothman. “Talk to the doctors and accountants of those who may be vulnerable.”

Congressman Keith Ellison (MN-5) said for those facing foreclosure all is not lost and help is available.

“My office worked with a constituent who owed $20,000 on her home and was in foreclosure,” said Ellison. “We worked with the constituent and the bank to help her stay in her home and now she owns it outright. We can’t guarantee you an outcome, but we can guarantee you our effort.”

Ellison said in addition to his office, help can be found via community organizations such as the Jewish Community Action and Northside Community Reinvestment Coalition.

“If you’re facing foreclosure, don’t feel like all is lost. There

Courtesy of Irma McClaurin

Malik of African & Caribbean Culture Centre, McClaurin, Centre visitor to one of the numerous B&Bs in Edinburg, and visited historic buildings, including the Queen’s palace.

The moment of epiphany for me was finding out information about the name I carry “McClaurin/MacLaren/ MacLaurin/McLaren/”—my “slave” name, yes, but still a part of my personal history. I secured some help from the receptionist at the National Archives of Scotland located in Edinburg (http://www.nas.gov.uk/about/ default.asp) . After two hours of chit-chatting in the lobby and looking up information in the book of Scottish names, he introduced me to one of the librarians who showed me to a very small section of books on Scottish people who had emigrated to the U.S. South.

Most went to North Carolina, and then spread out from there. Some obviously settled in Mississippi, where my father was born, but I could not find a direct link, so I will have to try and find more from the Mississippi side.

The next stop was Glasgow— a bit further north, it was colder and more rain, and eerily, the sun did not begin to set until around 9pm. The long days played havoc with sleeping when it was still light outside. While in Scotland, I experienced summer solstice, some of the longest days of the year, and the longest I’ve ever known in my life. Despite the rain, people in Glasgow were friendlier. As we stopped to look at a map and figure out our directions, people would stop and ask “can I help you find something?” One man walking his dog actually walked us back to our hotel as we navigated streets that twisted and curved.

And the B&B served the best smoked salmon and scrambled eggs that I had tasted. We also found time to connect with the large African immigrant and refugee population in Glasgow.

They are trying to build community through the African and Caribbean Centre (http:// www.glasgowcityofmusic.com/ find_a/5199_afro_caribbean_ network_centre).

After a few days of cool weather and lots of rain, rain, and more rain, my travel partner and I are people here to help,” said Ellison.

According to the Congressman, AfricanAmericans’ wealth plunged 53 percent due to the housing crisis.

Ellison said much of AfricanAmericans’ financial worth is tied to the equities in their homes. He went on to admonish primary lenders for preying on potential homebuyers with high interest, adjustable rate loans.

“The foreclosure crisis did not happen because ordinary citizens tricked banks into giving them predatory loans,” said Ellison. “(The banks) didn’t care if you were going to make good on the loan because the banks were going to sell it on the secondary market anyway.”

Ellison said he is calling on Congress to greater regulate banks and lenders.

Rothman said there are things consumers can do to avoid becoming victims to scams.

He suggests first, contacting the mortgage company directly to try and make payment arrangements or modifications.

In addition, Rothman said never pay advance fees to anyone offering loan modification assistance. He said consumers can get free assistance from the Minnesota Homeownership Center. The Commissioner said if someone feels they have been fallen victim to scam or fraud, contact his office at (800) 6573602 or online at www.mn.gov/ commerce.

went our separate ways. She went on to Aberdeen, while I headed for London. There I found more rain, but the excitement of the upcoming Olympics gave the city a festive air. I connected with friends I had not seen in over a decade, and enjoyed visiting the train stations.

But it was by bus that I made my way through the English Channel and onward to France. What can I say about Paris, except I love it. There is a quality about the people. They are enthusiastic, passionate, and seem to enjoy each other’s company. I first noted on the subway that couples laughed with each other, held hands (old and young), and talked. Unlike American couples who always seem to be angry at each other, the French seemed to take delight in their companion—gay or straight.

My most wondrous observation came while sitting at sidewalk cafés, of which there are many. People were not plugged into phones and computers.

They actually still engaged in the art of conversation, a dying tradition in America. Walk into any Starbucks in the U.S. and you will see people talking on

their cell phones even as they sit at the table with another person, or typing away at a laptop. The days of coffee and chit-chat have disappeared. Not so in Paris!.

Having arrived during Fashion week, my favorite French term was “soldes” or sales. Crosscultural communication was not a problem when buying items.

Somehow I got what I wanted, and the store clerks got a sale.

And when translation was an issue, they often enlisted the aid of a nearby customer. In one store, the information was communicated in French and translated into Spanish, which I and the customer both spoke.

Yes, I travel the world, looking for something, and in Paris, I found it. I just enjoyed the musical energy of the jazz clubs— especially Jazz Acts (www.jazzact.com) in the Montparnasse area, a newly-opened club by a Senegalese engineer who was born in Paris, and retains a love of music nurtured from when he was a child. On my visit, I was treated to live music by a Cuban flutist visiting from Habana, accompanied by musicians from the Cuban diaspora in Paris. And my good friend, John Betsch—a great drummer, tipped me off on

this one, and other places to go and hear jazz, including himself (http://7lezards.com/musiciens/ betsch.htm). He has a new album coming out (http://tribaldisorder. com/2.0/john-betsch) .

Staying in the Latin Quarters at Résidence les Gobliens (http:// www.hotelgobelins.com/en/ component/content/article/406hotel-residence-les-gobelinsparis-13-eme-arrondissement. html), located on rue de Gobliens, off of Ave des Gobliens—yes, lots of Gobliens, I wandered around amidst a diversity of immigrants and French people.

In fact, the owners of Hotel des Gobliens are a Jamaican woman married to a Frenchman. While the monuments like the Eiffel Tower are wonderful, a visit to the Museum National D’Histoire Naturelle, with its historic Jardin des Plantes (botanical gardens) will give you proper exposure as well as a stroll along the Rue Monge. The last time I stayed near the Sobornne. This time, it was the Latin Quarters.

Each area has its own charm.

Thanks to a new friend Kristi of C.T. Weekends (http://www. ctweekendsforwomen.com/) from Raleigh who was in Paris for Fashion Week, I got to experience a delightful restaurant called SPRING at 6 rue Bailleul with noted chef Daniel Rose— Iron Chef and Food Network, move over (http://www. springparis.fr/). I kept waiting for the hidden camera to appear—it was that good. With seating for just 29 people, it was an intimate experience as we watched our food prepared in close proximity.

Eating is a wonderful pass time in Paris, and it’s true that “French women don’t get fat” because they walk--- a lot!

The train from Paris to Luxembourg was uneventful and cheap. Upon arrival, I discovered the train station was just two blocks from my hotel. My European style quarters consisted of a double bed, a built-in desk, tiny shower/toilet and flat screen TV. Once I settled in, I asked how to get to the town center.

The desk clerk informed me Luxembourg was very small, and

TRAVEL TURN TO 8

Page 6 • August 20 - August 26, 2012 • Insight News

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COMMENTARY Village currency: The principles of timebanking

By Dr. Artika Tyner Difficult economic times are widespread both nationally and locally. In Minnesota, African Americans are facing tough economic times which are evidenced by 37.2 percent of families living in poverty and the largest unemployment gap disparity in the Nation (between Blacks and Whites).

The Community Justice Project and the St. Paul Chapter of the NAACP are working together to develop practical solutions for addressing these economic challenges impacting the African American community and other diverse populations.

One such solution is supporting the growth and development of TimeBanks locally.

Timebanking follows the traditional community values of respect, love, and service that are embodied in the notion of: “It takes a village.” Deeply rooted in African American

tradition and culture, we recognize that it takes a village to build strong and vibrant communities.

Timebanking establishes an opportunity for each community member to serve as a valuable contributor and play a key role in maximizing our human capital.

Timebanking creates a new form of currency- “village currency” that can be used to alleviate poverty and support local economies. It is a form of currency that is based upon human capital hence not limited by one’s financial means and access to resources.

Timebanking combines the basic premises of time and banking. Starting with time.

Each person can have a lasting impact on the life of another community member, one hour by one hour. Members of a TimeBank exchange services such as home improvement (painting, plumbing), personal assistance (tutoring, home care, driving), or professional

development (coaching, resume development). Each service equates to one hour of service which can in turn be used as a “TimeDollar.” This acknowledges that everyone

of Timebanks earn and redeem TimeDollars with each hour of a service exchange. The recipient of services redeems hours while the service provider earns hours when performing the

Timebanking creates a new form of currency- “village currency” that can be used to alleviate poverty and support local economies.

has something to give and each contribution is equally as valuable.

Similar to traditional notions of banking, members

given task. There is a database that keeps track of the service hours that you have received, the number of hours that you have earned, and the balance

of the total hours. TimeDollars can be used to pay for services that you would normally pay out of pocket for therefore alleviating some financial stress. Combining principles of time and banking provides a framework for meeting the basic economic needs of community members and promoting community-building by offering opportunities to exchange services rather than only being required to pay for services.

A practical model of how timebanking is put into practice begins with a community member attending orientation and joining a timebank.

This community member brainstorms and lists his/her gifts and talents as possible services to render. Let’s say this community member would like to help with painting kitchens, providing basic car repairs, and offering small business development support. These potential services are added to

the TimeBank directory. Once in the TimeBank directory, other community members can contact this member for services they need. In turn, the member may also contact others for services that he/she may need, whether it is help with starting a small garden in your backyard, tutoring for a class, or repairing a broken electrical outlet, a member of a TimeBank can help. There are a wide range of services that can be made available which represents the wealth of untapped resources in the village.

Let’s put this idea of village currency in practical terms with examples of home services exchanges. To fix a leaky faucet, you would need to call a plumber and pay for the initial service call. You would also have to pay for the actual services rendered. This transaction could cost about

CURRENCY TURN TO 8

Worrying about my Black boy’s future

By Allison R. Brown America’s Wire Writers Group Our angst certainly isn’t unique among parents of Black boys.

What’s unique for us and for other such parents is that when we peek inside the matrix, we panic. Agents out there are bearing down on our son — bloodthirsty for his dignity, his humanity — as if he were the one. We feel outnumbered, but we hunker down for battle.

My husband and I fuss and fret over our Black boy.

Like other parents, we worry about a lot. We want him to use his smarts for good.

Do we coddle him too much?

We want him to be tough and kind, but assertive and gentle, and not mean. His boundaries of independent exploration are radiating outward, concentric circles growing farther and farther from us.

We wring our hands and pretend to look away in acknowledgment that he’s ready to claim his freedom, even as we cast furtive glances his way. We’re beginners in the worry department. He’s only 9 years old.

Our angst certainly isn’t unique among parents of Black boys. What’s unique for us and for other such parents is that when we peek inside the matrix, we panic. Agents out there are bearing down on our son — bloodthirsty for his dignity, his humanity — as if he were the one. We feel outnumbered, but we hunker down for battle.

This is not a paranoid conspiracy rant. Recent data from the Office for Civil Rights in the U.S. Department of Education reveals that Black boys are the most likely group of students to be suspended or

America’s Wire

Allison R. Brown expelled from school. Black men and boys are more likely than any demographic group to be targeted — hunted, really — and arrested by police.

Meanwhile, the number of Black males taking advanced courses in elementary, middle and high schools and entering college remains disproportionately low.

Suicide among Black boys is increasing. Media imagery and indifference have locked Black boys in their sights.

Prisons have become corporate behemoths with insatiable appetites for Black and brown boys and men.

My husband and I rightfully agonize about our boy. We agonize alongside many who are working to help, including the federal government. I know firsthand the work that

the federal government has done and is doing to improve circumstances for Black boys.

This includes internal memos and meetings, interagency planning sessions, public conferences, community meetings and listening sessions, and now a White House initiative.

I also know that the federal government is accountable to numerous constituencies that sometimes have conflicting needs. Federal government workers must walk a fine line among varying public interests, which occasionally has meant unintended consequences for Black boys.

For instance, in 1994, the federal priority of “zero tolerance” for anyone bringing a weapon to school was signed into law as the Gun-Free

Schools Act. That priority reached fever pitch after the Columbine school massacre in 1999 and subsequent copycat slayings and attempts to kill. Federal requirements were overshadowed by local authorities and school administrators who stretched the parameters of “zero tolerance” in schools beyond logical measure to include, for instance, spoons as weapons and Tylenol as an illegal drug, and to suspend and expel students as a result.

“Zero tolerance” has entered the realm of the ridiculous.

Many schools have removed teacher and administrator discretion and meted out harsh punishment for school uniform violations, schoolyard fights without injury and various undefined and indefinable categories of offense such as “defiance” and “disrespect.”

Students are suspended, expelled and even arrested for such conduct without investigation or inquiry.

There is no evidence to support use of exclusionary

Ghana From 1

2012

Minnesota

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International media may have people believe it was a sudden death, but Atta Mills’ health was one of the most controversial issues in the country. In fact, when news came he was dead, many did not react. After all, a rumor of his death swirled around every few months. It was not until the traditional flutes started playing over radio and tv airwaves that many Ghanaians realized, that the death of Atta Mills was, in fact, not a rumor. It was also this time that Ghanaians started to show a tremendous amount of brotherhood.

Now, for the record, Ghanaians are naturally a friendly people. However, it is a voting year and, well, everyone, worldwide, knows how politics can split a house.

discipline practices as tools for prevention, and they have no educational benefit. The brunt of this insanity has fallen on Black boys.

Recent federal priorities have targeted harassment and bullying in school to protect lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students from peer-on-peer discrimination dismissed by, and in many cases encouraged by, school administration.

Again, understandable.

The goal is praiseworthy — to protect, finally, a population of students and segment of society that has long been a whipping post for every political party, ignored in political discussions except to condemn. While my husband and I have ardently supported federal protections for LGBT students, practically speaking, we continue to lose sleep over our Black boy.

Another peek inside the matrix tells me that the fever pitch around this latest federal agenda item will mean a significant cost to Black boys when new categories of offense are created, new ways to characterize them as criminals unworthy of participating in mainstream education or society.

It’s one thing for educators to guide student conduct and educate students about how to care for and respect one another, which is a primary focus of the federal move against harassment and bullying. It’s quite another to change mindsets of adults who run the system, too many of whom believe and speak negatively about Black boys and what they cannot accomplish or should not do.

To speak and think affirmatively, to affirm behavior and Black boys as people, is to relish the silly jokes they tell within their context, to compliment them on their haircuts or groomed and styled dreadlocks and cornrows, to adopt lingo they create and add it to classroom repertoire, and to invite their

But over the past week, the only political rhetoric you hear is let us do what is best for Ghana. Members of the opposing party now when they talk about the NDC party, don’t seem as harsh. Instead, they want to honor the memory of a fallen Ghanaian and continue to push the county forward. It is amazing how a man’s sins die with him.

The death of Atta Mills has brought about a solidarity amongst Ghanaians that I have not seen since coming.

When it was time to view the body in the State House, thousands of Ghanaians lined the streets. It was the first time where tribe, class and political affiliation did not matter. They quietly nodded to each other in the streets and had quiet discussions about the President’s death. And the sea of red, black and white clothing Wednesday-Friday was an amazing site.

There is an old saying

fathers, grandfathers, uncles, brothers, cousins to participate in the educational experience.

To support Black boys is to celebrate their physical playfulness and the unique ways in which they may support and affirm one another. As with any other children, we must teach Black boys through instruction and by example how to read and write, and how to conduct themselves without erasing their identity and attempting to substitute another. We must hone their instincts, whims and knowledge base so they can be empowered to exhibit all the good in themselves. We must be willing to show them our human frailties so they know how to get up and carry on after falling down. Yes, these things can benefit all children, but many children receive them by default. Black boys do not.

To love Black boys is to refuse to be an agent of forces clamoring for their souls and instead to be their Morpheus, their god of dreams, to help them believe in their power to save all of us and to train them to step into their greatness.

Those agents in the matrix are real. If everyone combines forces and uses common sense, we can declare victory for Black boys and eventually all of us.

But without a change in mindset, federal initiatives, no matter their good intentions or the incredible talents that give them life, will continue to leave Black boys by the wayside as collateral damage.

My husband and I will continue to fret, knowing the formidable challenges our son faces. We hope that if he has a son, that boy can be just a boy.

Brown is a former trial attorney for the U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division, Educational Opportunities Section. She is president of Allison Brown Consulting, which works with educators, students, families and other key stakeholders to improve the quality of education, especially for Black boys.

that God doesn’t make any mistakes and after watching the Atta Mills funeral I am inclined to believe it is true.

It is an amazing thing to think that a man, running for President , dies less than four months before the election; an election that many people though would tear Ghanaians apart. Now, because of his death, Ghanaians have been brought together with one thought in their mind, “Let us do what is best for Ghana.” If you ask me, this is the greatest legacy President Atta Mills left with his people. May he rest in peace knowing his country is better than when he left.

Cordie Aziz is a former congressional staffer who relocated to Ghana in 2011 after losing her job. She is passionate about encouraging young entrepreneurs to do business in Africa and helping people actualize their dreams. Find her on twitter @GoneiiGhana.

insightnews.com

Insight News • August 20 - August 26, 2012 • Page 7

HEALTH Back to school wellness for kids Our Health

By Nicole Winbush MD Young people are headed back to school. We can support their school success by creating habits at home that will support both the health of their body and mind.

A good day starts with the night before Children require more sleep than adults to be able to function their best during the day. Elementary and middle school age children should be getting 10-12 hours of sleep per night and high school students 9-10 hours.

In young people, the signs of poor sleep differ from adults and can often be characterized by ‘hyperactive’ behaviors.

As caregivers, we must create an environment that allows children to rest. We can help our children establish consistent sleep routines by modeling these behaviors ourselves. For

long-term health this school year is an intervention.

example, is important to set limits on the use of technology (computers, cell phones, ipods) especially in the evening hours.

It is also recommended that children not have televisions in their room.

They have got to move it move it Kids (and adults) need to move to be healthy. The evidence shows that regular physical activity is associated with better school performance. School age children should get at least an hour of physical activity each day. How do we do this? Many of us have children. None of us have enough time. Offer to do childcare exchanges -- take your kids and your friend’s kids to the park while they prepare dinner and they can do the same for you the next night.

Make it a competition, have kids compete e.g. doing wind sprints or jumping jacks. If you really cannot get outside look at youtube for kids workouts, there are many.

Start the morning with breakfast (read on, not just any breakfast) It matters what we have for breakfast.

It is the most important meal of the day.

Eating a breakfast that contains protein (e.g. a serving of healthy breakfast meat, eggs, peanut butter, yogurt, cheese) and complex carbohydrates (e.g. oatmeal, a slice of whole grain toast, brown rice) will allow your child to have a constant source of fuel that gets them through the morning. Studies have shown that children who skip breakfast perform less well in school.

Help your kids to stop drinking (their calories) The average American consumes 150 pounds of sugar per year.

For kids the number is even higher and most of his sugar intake comes in the form of high calorie sweetened beverages (soda, sweet teas, juice drinks).

Increasing numbers of children

PhotoXpress

and young people are dealing with very grown up health issues like being overweight, diabetes and heart disease. As a result, this may be the first generation where children may not live as long as their parents.

The consumption of sugar and sweetened drinks is being shown to be very addicting. The same rules apply as to quitting any other addiction: enlist support, do not keep it in the house (stop buying soda and teas and juices)

and plan and provide alternatives (water, milk and whole fruits).

You may need to go slow. If you fall off the wagon start again. If your children have developed a (sugar) drinking habit, one of the best things you can do for their

Reading is Fundamental As parents we all want our children to reach their full potential and be successful.

Helping our children to establish a lifelong love for learning is crucial. So, even when the homework is done, make reading a priority. Assist

HEALTH TURN TO 11

Eliminating the diabetes health disparity Health: Africans in America

By Joyce Onyekaba, MD It has been established that people of African descent living in the United States, experience a diabetes rate that is twice than those experienced by Caucasians.

According to a report released in 2005 by the National Institute of Health, people of African descent in the US, have an 80 percent higher rate of death from stroke, a 50 percent higher rate of death from heart disease and a 320 percent greater rate of

diabetes related end-stage renal disease than those in the general population. If untreated, diabetes could lead to coronary artery disease, heart attack, congestive heart failure, kidney damage and death.

Diabetes is the 6th leading cause of death in Minnesota, the leading cause of blindness, kidney failure and lower-limb amputations. In our State, there are racial and ethnic disparities in the prevalence, complication and death rates from diabetes, and in the preventive care received by those who have it. The disease is also more likely to develop at a younger age among peoples of African descent compared to Caucasians. African American adults are far more likely to develop adult-onset, or type 2, diabetes than adult whites with women much more likely than

men to develop the disease.

In Minnesota, diabetes is also the leading medical risk factor during pregnancy. Complications during pregnancy can result in poor outcomes for both the mother and the child. Pre-existing diabetes-complicated births are 2.1 times greater in African Americans. One in four people in Minnesota have pre-diabetes including 92,000 children, some 78% are overweight or obese, 42% have high blood pressure, 38 % have high cholesterol, and 16% currently smoke.

Racial and ethnic disparities in diabetes complications and diabetes-related deaths are made worse by many factors.

These include lack of culturally appropriate diabetes preventative education materials, support systems, lack of cultural diverse and competent health care

Teens and preteens need shots too Vaccines keep healthy teens healthy. Did you know that your kids need shots when they begin their teen years? Starting at around 11 or 12 years old, kids need three vaccines. And it’s not too late for your older teenagers who didn’t get these vaccines at 11 or 12 years old. They can get them at their next doctor/clinic visit.

Tdap The Tdap vaccine protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (also known as whooping cough).

Kids also get vaccinated against these same diseases when they are younger and they need the Tdap vaccine to boost their protection against these diseases.

It’s important for teens (and adults too!) to be vaccinated against pertussis, not only to protect themselves, but to prevent spreading it to babies who are too young to be vaccinated.

Meningococcal The meningococcal vaccine protects against dangerous brain and blood infections. These illnesses are not very common, but they are very serious when they happen. People can lose their arms or legs, have brain damage, or die. One of the most likely times for people to get meningococcal infections is between the ages of 15 and 24. Teens need meningococcal vaccine at 11 or 12 years and a booster at 16 years.

HPV The HPV vaccine protects against two types of human papillomavirus that cause most cervical cancer and other kinds of cancer. One of the HPV vaccines also protects against genital warts.

Boys and girls need three doses of HPV vaccine when they are 11 to 12 years old.

How and Where Your child can get these vaccines at the same time, and they can be given at any doctor visit. If your child’s school has a health clinic,

vaccines may be available there too. Your local health department may also have these vaccines.

Many people can get vaccines for free or for a low cost. Ask about this at the doctor’s office.

More Information

For more information about vaccines, ask your doctor or local health department. You can also get information about vaccines for adolescents on the Minnesota Department of Health website at http://www.health.state.mn.us/ immunize.

providers are the barriers to effective diabetes management and prevention.

In the State of Minnesota, the annual cost of diabetes in terms of medical cost, disability, loss of work and premature death is estimated to be over $2.3 billion.

The social and economic burdens on the State and on the individuals due to undiagnosed and untreated diabetes are very high. We believe that morbidity and mortality rates due to this disease can be reduced

through simple preventive health education.

Crown Medical Center in collaboration with the office of Minority and Multicultural Health of the Minnesota Department of Health are developing and implementing interventions that will bridge the gap in healthcare disparity particularly for diabetes in the minority and immigrant African communities.

Simply put, diabetes is a disorder of metabolism and as

the general population gets more overweight the incidence of the disease is expected to increase in the future.

The most commonly asked questions about the disease include the following: What is diabetes?

What can happen to me if my diabetes was not properly treated or controlled?

DIABETES TURN TO 10

Page 8 • August 20 - August 26, 2012 • Insight News

Travel From 5 I could walk just about anywhere.

He was right. I strolled along the streets with many others and found myself in a town square where beer is served in a real glass for which you pay one Euro refunded upon return. I watched Disney’s Nemo in French and German on an outside screen set up in the square where I was able to take wonderful photos of children playing; I became intrigued by the number of men out along with their children, and just began photographing them.

I was fortunate to get a brief visit with the American Ambassador to Luxembourg, the Honorable Ambassador Robert A. Mandell. To him, diplomacy is an “art,” and he knows what that means better than anyone, since Mandell is also an accomplished painter in addition to being a saavy businessman, and strong Obama supporter.

insightnews.com

My final stop was Konz, Germany. It is about 45 minutes outside of Luxembourg. My Raleigh neighbors, Rosie, Frederick, and their son Oliver, who are originally from Germany, graciously hosted me. They also assisted me in my search for a lost Afro-German cousin—but to no avail.

All in all, it was a wonderful adventure— Scotland, London, Paris, Luxembourg, and Germany. And, more fun than tumbling down a rabbit hole, I must say: Yes indeed, “…sweet dreams are made of this—travelin’ the world, lookin/ for something.” ©2012 McClaurin Solutions Irma McClaurin, PhD is the Culture and Education Editor for Insight News of Minneapolis. She is a bio-cultural anthropologist and writer living in Raleigh, NC, the Principal of McClaurin Solutions (a consulting business), and a former university president. (www.irmamcclaurin.com) (@ mcclaurintweets)

Irma McClaurin and bagpipe player, Edinburgh

Currency From 6 $175-$200. With timebanking, you would use 3 of your service hours/TimeDollars and pay a nominal amount for supplies

($8-$10) for this repair. Or another example could be cleaning your gutters. Gutter cleaning can be a tedious task and physically impossible to perform for some. It also can cost in excess of hundreds of dollars depending on the number of stories of your

home. With timebanking, you can use your service hours/ TimeDollars to perform this task semi-annually. Through these examples, you can see the money-saving potential of timebanking and the power of village currency.

Timebanking is being used to promote economic development around the globe.

Nationally, there are over 250 TimeBanks in the United States and TimeBanks are operating in 26 countries. Timebanking can also be a vehicle to address other social issues like juvenile justice reform, reentry/reintegration initiatives, and elder care programming.

Communities have narrowly tailored the timebanking model to meet their needs. One notable example is Homecomers Academy, which incorporates the principles of timebanking into a re-entry/reintegration initiative that provides job development and builds community support networks for those who are returning home from prison. Homecomers Academy participants help to rehabilitate houses in their local communities. Another example is a timebanking initiative in Rhode Island that

Courtesy of IrmaMcClaurin

provides respite care for seniors ranging from meal preparation to transportation services, in order to ensure that they can maintain their homes and live independently. Both of these examples demonstrate how timebanking helps to build a support network in communities and ensure that communities can remain viable.

The founder of timebanking, Dr. Edgar S. Cahn, opened the TimeBank Global Conference, with the following remarks: “There is tremendous wealth in this room, tremendous wealth in the nation…if [there] [is] ever a time to tap into it, it is right now.” You can tap into village currency today by joining a local TimeBank.

For more information about timebanking, please visit TimeBank USA’s website: http://timebanks.org/. Interested in joining a local TimeBank, visit Hour Dollars’ website: http://www.hourdollars.org/.

Dr. Artika R. Tyner, law professor and director of diversity, at the University of St. Thomas School of Law (http:// www.stthomas.edu/law/)

insightnews.com

Insight News • August 20 - August 26, 2012 • Page 9

AESTHETICS Carmen Ejogo: The Sparkle interview Kam Williams: Hi Carmen, thanks so much for the time. I really appreciate it.

Carmen Ejogo: Thank you.

Interview

KW: My brother Larry is the librarian at a Friends school that I think you’re very familiar with.

CE: Oh, wow! That’s so cool! That’s where one of my kids got their start. Small world!

By Kam Williams kam@insightnews.com Carmen Ejogo was born in London on New Year’s Day 1974 to Elizabeth Douglas and Charles Ejogo, a couple of Scottish and Nigerian extraction, respectively.

She made her U.S. film debut opposite Eddie Murphy playing Veronica ‘Ronnie’ Tate in the 1997 comedy Metro.

Carmen then went on to star in films such as Kenneth Branagh’s adaptation of Shakespeare’s Love’s Labour’s Lost, What’s the Worst that Could Happen? opposite Martin Lawrence, Neil Jordan’s The Brave One opposite Terrence Howard and Jodie Foster, Gavin O’Connor’s Pride and Glory opposite Ed Norton, and in Sam Mendes’ 2009 indie hit Away We Go opposite Maya Rudolph. Ejogo can next be seen starring opposite Tyler Perry in the feature I, Alex Cross, a psychological thriller based on the James Patterson novels about Washington DC detective Alex Cross.

Additionally, Ejogo garnered the attention of television critics and audiences alike for her portrayal of Sally Hemmings, the

KW: What interested you in Sparkle?

CE: You wouldn’t ask that question, if you’d seen the movie, Kam. This role is to die for. It’s such a great role. The highs and lows of the character’s sister [Sparkle, played by Jordin Sparks] are so dramatic and nuanced and layered that you’d be a fool to turn this role down.

Still of Carmen Ejogo, Tika Sumpter and Jordin Sparks in Sparkle title character in the 2000 CBS miniseries Sally Hemmings: An American Scandal. Later, Ejogo starred as Coretta Scott King in HBO’s critically acclaimed film Boycott opposite Jeffrey Wright and Terrence Howard. Her role

earned her a 2001 NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Actress in a TV film or miniseries. In 2005, Ejogo starred in HBO’s Emmy nominated Lackawanna Blues.

Her role as Aalen earned her a

© 2012 Stage 6 Films, Inc. All Rights Reserved

second Image Award nomination.

Ejogo will next star as FBI agent Baca Sunjata in the highlyanticipated ABC television series Zero Hour opposite Anthony Edwards.

Carmen and her husband,

actor Jeffrey Wright, live in Brooklyn which is where they are raising their two children. Here’s she talks about her latest role as Sister in Sparkle opposite Jordin Sparks and the late Whitney Houston.

KW: Did you go back and Watch Lonette McKee’s performance in the original version of Sparkle in preparing to do this role?

CE: No. No, I don’t know how you make a role your own if you do that. So, watching another actress play the same character in preparation for my own performance is the last thing I would ever do, particularly with Sister, since Lonette made it so iconic that it would be a crazy idea to watch her. I think

EJOGO TURN TO 15

Artists commissioned for Union Depot months to engage additional artists in projects at Union Depot.

For more information on selected commissions visit

Tim Prentice,“Staysails,”2009. Prentice has been commissioned to create a suspended kinetic sculpture in Union Depot’s Kellogg Entrance.

Amy Baur and Brian Boldon,“The View from a Distance,”2006.

Baur and Boldon have been commissioned to create a photographic mural in ceramic and glass in Union Depot’s carriageway.

The Ramsey County Regional Railroad Authority (RCRRA) approved the selection of artists for public art commissions at historic Union Depot in St. Paul’s Lowertown neighborhood. The selected artists will begin a process of designing works specifically for the depot, to be installed in 2013.

Applications were received from 156 artists who wanted to be a part of the program, including many local and national artists, and a few international artists. Four artist teams with experience on public infrastructure projects were recommended by a review panel comprised of artists, art professionals, historic preservationists, project partners and community representatives.

“We were thrilled with the response,” said Commissioner Jim McDonough, chair of the RCRRA. “These artists will make a lasting mark on the building, and help to create a place that people will want to visit and experience again and again,” he continued.

Selected artists include: • Amy Baur and Brian Boldon of In Plain Sight Art Studio (Minneapolis, MN) have been selected to produce a work of art in the carriageway of Union Depot, which will serve as a primary drop off site for those arriving at Union Depot by auto, taxi or accessible transportation services.

• Ray King (Philadelphia, PA) has been selected to create an elegant suspended sculpture in the Great Hall Atrium, which will be visible from the depot’s front plaza and from inside the Great Hall.

• Tim Prentice (West Cornwall, CT) will create a suspended kinetic sculpture in the newly built Kellogg Entry, where transit riders will ascend

from street level to the train deck and historic waiting room.

• Steve Dietz of Northern Lights.mn (Minneapolis, MN) will direct a team of local, national and international artists in the development of an interactive multimedia artwork platform that will engage visitors of Union Depot with various multimedia projects. Dietz’s team includes:

internationally celebrated light artist Jim Campbell; Mouna Andraos and Melissa Mongiat of Daily tous les jours; Michael Murnane, a Twin Cities-based lighting and projection artist; Jeffrey Scherer, an architect and world-renowned library expert; Sarah Peters, a public engagement and community partnership specialist; and Cynthia Hilmoe, an expert in user interface and design.

The RCRRA is investing approximately $1.25 million towards public art at the renovated Union Depot, with 80 percent ($1 million) of those dollars coming from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA).

The four selected commissions make up about 85 percent of the overall public art program budget. The RCRRA plans to issue a supplemental Call to Artists in the coming

http://www.regionalrail.org, or follow Union Depot on Facebook at http://facebook. com/uniondepot.

Page 10 • August 20 - August 26, 2012 • Insight News

insightnews.com

FULL CIRCLE

How do I feel about that?

Man Talk

By Timothy Houston Communication relationships

can

within be

challenging. Sometimes the intent of the message gets lost between “what I said,” and “what I heard you say.” To be effective at bridging this gap, we need to use every tool available to us. Some years ago, I learned a powerful communication technique that I think will be helpful in accomplishing this goal. This technique involves written communication followed by

an oral discussion. The writing and discussion are both based on a statement called the “How did I feel about that” or “HDIFAT” statement.

This tool can be used to improve communication around an emotionally charged discussion, or to even the communication playing field by allowing both parties to have an equal say. First, participants should agree on

Go Ahead, Eat with Your Fingers!

a topic statement to start the written expression of “How do I feel about that.” The topic statement can be something as simple as, “You never answer your cell phone when we are together.” How do I feel about that?

After the topic has been established, each participant must go into separate rooms to write down how they felt about the statement. The writing should not be done in the same room because the presence of the other person may take away from the effectiveness of the exercise. If one person finishes quickly, the other individual may feel as though they have to rush to get their thoughts on paper. A time limit of 15 - 30 minutes should be established up front, after which the parties should meet up to exchange their papers so the other person can read their response. Responses should be read twice, once for content and the second time for feeling.

Next, participants should discuss how they felt about what they just read. They should use “I feel” statements

Diabetes From 7 Who is at risk of getting diabetes?

Almost every person of color knows someone who has diabetes.

An estimated 18.2 million people in the United States of America or about 6.3 percent of the US population have diabetes. Of these number, an estimated 13 million people have been diagnosed while about 5.2 million people who have not visited a doctor for screening are yet to be diagnosed.

It has been showed that each year, about 1.3 million people aged 20 or older are diagnosed with diabetes.

In view of the serious nature of diabetes it becomes important to educate and engage the general public especially communities of color on the disease.

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ON THE GREEN LINE

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a disorder of metabolism, which is the way our bodies use digested food as source of energy and for growth. Most of the foods we eat are broken down into glucose, a form of sugar which is the main source of energy or fuel for the body.

After consuming a good meal, the food is digested or broken down into glucose. The glucose passes from the bloodstream into the cells of the body. The cells utilize this simple sugar for growth and for energy production.

For glucose to get into cells and to be properly used for these purposes (cell growth and energy production), a hormone called insulin must be present. Insulin is produced by the pancreas, a large flat- shaped gland that is located behind the stomach.

For normal individuals, when we eat, the pancreas automatically

(expression of feeling) over “I feel that” statements (expression of an opinion).

Because we are the owners of our feelings, “you make me feel” statements should also be eliminated. After one party has shared, the listening party should begin their response with “What I heard you say is” statement. This should be repeated until what is being said, and what is being heard is agreed upon.

Finally, participants should dispose of the papers. They are not tools to be used at a later discussion. Remember to always be mindful of the feelings of the other person.

Two important factors should be kept in mind. One, people are more important than feelings. You should never use any type of communication to win the battle at the expense of losing the other person. Two, feelings are more important than the events that caused them. The details of the event are secondary to how the person felt about it. You are not trying to prove your point, but rather to create a healthy outlet

for sharing feelings. Also bear in mind that the other person involved is someone you care about, and their feelings are just as important and valid as yours.

Effective communication is not an easy task. HDIFAT is a powerfully tool. It has the power to bridge the great communication divide.

Tools that help develop clear honest, open channel for communication are needed. The “HDIFAT” technique is an also excellent way to get couples who may have a difficult time discussing sensitive issues to begin talking during their alone time. This simple exercise presents an opportunity to clear up misunderstanding and miscommunication.

produces the right amount of insulin to move glucose from blood into our cells. For the individuals that have diabetes the pancreas either produces little or does not produce any insulin at all. In some cases, because of one problem or the other, the cells do not at all respond appropriately to the insulin that is produced.

Since glucose is not metabolized or broken down for use by the body, glucose therefore builds up in the blood then overflows into the urine, and passes out of the body. The body loses its main source of energy or fuel even though the blood contains large amounts of glucose which is wasted through excretion in the urine.

There are three main types of diabetes: Type 1 diabetes Type 2 diabetes Gestational (pregnancy associated) diabetes Type 1 diabetes is a form of autoimmune disease. An autoimmune disease results when the body’s defense cells, whose duties are to fight foreign infections turn against any part of the body. In type 1 diabetes, the body defense cells also called the immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells, called Beta cells located in the pancreas. Over time, the body defense cells ultimately destroys the Beta cells and eventually the insulin producing pancreas causing them to produce little or no insulin. Therefore individuals with type 1 diabetes must take daily insulin injections. As of date we do not know exactly what causes type 1 diabetes but we think that autoimmune disease, genetic, environmental factors, and possibly viruses could be involved or incriminated. Type 1 diabetes accounts for about 5 to 10 percent of cases diagnosed

in the U.S. and the incidence is common in children and young adults, but can also occur at any age.

Symptoms of type 1 diabetes develop over a short period of time and it is associated with increased thirst and urination. It is not uncommon for the individual to experience constant hunger, weight loss even when they are fully fed. Individuals may also have blurred vision and become easily tired on minor exercise or exertion. A person with type 1 diabetes if not quickly and effectively treated, they can go into a life-threatening diabetic coma which may result in death.

Type 2 diabetes is generally the most common form of diabetes. Majority of diabetic patients seen at Crown Medical Center have this form of diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes is readily seen in older people, obese or over weight individuals and in those with a family history of diabetes, and in people who live sedentary or inactive lifestyles. Sometimes we observe this type of diabetes in pregnant women who have gestational diabetes or diabetes associated with pregnancy. This kind of diabetes is common in people of African descent. In type 2 diabetes generally, the pancreas produces enough insulin, but for some unknown reasons, the body cannot use the insulin very well.

We call this condition insulin resistance. After many years with this condition the insulin production gradually decreases.

This causes glucose to build up in the blood since the body cannot efficiently make use of this simple sugar. Over time, the symptoms observed in type 1 diabetes narrated above will become manifest in these individuals.

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

For questions, comments or more information, go to www. tlhouston.com or email at tim@tlhouston.com.

DIABETES TURN TO 15

insightnews.com

Insight News • August 20 - August 26, 2012 • Page 11

Not a church, a ministry

By Ivan B. Phifer Staff Writer At age 25, most people are still figuring out life.

Some are going back to school, while others are finishing school and either job searching, or trying to figure out what type of job they want. For one 25 year old however, this is far from the case.

Richard Terrell, from the Powderhorn Park neighborhood in South Minneapolis, has accomplished much throughout his life. A small list of accomplishments includes working at a prestigious law firm by age 16; writing and editing for a college newspaper (The Northerner), leading a weekly boys group at Richard Green Park Community School in South Minneapolis, an internship in Washington, D.C. and being a part of the Coalition of Adoption Institute; which promotes adoption and engages parents to become more efficient

Health From 7 your children in finding books and information that they will enjoy and that will expand their

Campaign From 4 University Ave. W., Saint Paul Black Dog Coffee & Wine Bar, 308 Prince St., Saint Paul Bonnie’s Cafe, 2160

his coveted internship.

The achieving Terrell attended North Dakota State University and Normandale Community College. He attained a degree in Communications with a minor in Biblical Studies from North Central University.

“When I graduated from North Central, I was studying for the law school admissions test and debating which law school I wanted to go to,” said Terrell.

With dreams to open his own law firm, become a prosecutor or an attorney general, Terrell said he was called to enter the ministry.

“Around February of this year, one night I was studying for the LSAT law school admissions test,” said Terrell. “As I was reading; something told me to stop, put the books down, and start looking up seminaries. The next day, I called seminaries and began visiting them.”

Terrell grew up with his mother and grandparents.

“My father was away, but I

had many mentors; the biggest impacts were Dudley Smith from Briggs and Morgan, and (the) Rev. Jimmy Ashford,” said Terrell.

The young minister said he is also influenced by the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., his pastor, the Rev. William Austin of God’s Revelations Missionary Baptist Church and Bishop T.D. Jakes.

Currently, Terrell is working on a preaching series including three of his sermons called “It’s Time to Dream. He is also a youth minister of God’s Revelation Missionary Baptist Church and has recently founded R. Terrell ministries.

The mission of his ministry is to inspire, motivate and empower young people through the word of God. “It is not a church, it’s a ministry,” said Terrell. “As the founder, my goal is to bridge gaps between youth at local churches and denominations.”

For more information, visit www.rterrellministries.org.

The information contained herein should NOT be used as a substitute for the advice of an appropriately qualified and licensed physician or other health care provider. The information provided here is for

educational and informational purposes only. In no way should it be considered as offering medical advice. Please check with a healthcare provider if you suspect you are ill.

Dr. Winbush is a family physician practicing at NorthPoint Health and Wellness

Center. She has a strong interest in wellness and patient education to help individuals feel empowered to optimize their health and functioning. For more information and additional resources as mentioned in the article visit www. functionwellmedicine.com.

Acadia Cafe, 329 Cedar Ave S., Minneapolis Arts & Architecture, 3338 University Ave. S.E., Minneapolis Big 10 Restaurant, 606 Washington Ave. S.E., Minneapolis Bun Mi Sandwiches, 604 Washington Ave S.E.,

Minneapolis Cupcake, 3338 University Ave. S.E., Minneapolis Southern Theater, 1420 Washington Ave S., Minneapolis Future parts of the Central Corridor advertising and marketing campaign will include bus shelter ads, targeted ads in mainstream and ethnic

print media, social media ads, and selective radio and television ads. Additionally, the MOD Marketing Team is producing a directory and guide of Central Corridor businesses.

The directory will be available in late summer in retail Central Corridor businesses.

at foster parenting.

He has also made a conscious decision to alter his professional direction from law to ministry.

“For years, I was battling if I should be either a lawyer, or a pastor, or both,” Terrell said.

“For years I struggled with that.”

Terrell was licensed as a minister on May 18, 2003 at age 16 by the Rev. Jimmy Ashford of Trinity Temple Missionary Baptist Church. He also started his internship at the law firm Briggs & Morgan that same year, where he would intern for eight years.

“My experience at the law firm really helped me,” said Terrell. “They taught me a lot about the law, politics and the structure of a corporation. I will always give them the respect, because they opened their doors for me to intern. I was blessed to have the opportunity.”

Terrell attended Ramsey International Fine Arts for his elementary education, Volunteers for America

Alternative in middle school, and is a graduate of North Community High School.

Terrell achieved his Briggs and Morgan internship

through STEP UP – a program of Achieve Minneapolis. A meeting with one of the STEP UP coordinators, Jessica Rogers, was pivotal in obtaining

world. Before children are able to read, read to them. As they transition becoming independent readers, you can read with them and then discuss what you have read. Ask them their opinion about events in the world and listen carefully (you may be surprised). Encourage the use

of community information resources - our local library system, local writers and free weekly community newspapers.

Whatever our children’s dreams and aspirations, being able to read information, comprehend it and apply it in their life is a skill that will ensure their health and

success.

University Ave. W., Saint Paul Flamingo Restaurant, 490 N. Syndicate St., Saint Paul Glamour with New York Cuts, 446 University Ave. W., Saint Paul Milbern Clothing, 1685 University Ave. W., Saint Paul Ngon Bistro, 799 University Ave. W., Saint Paul

Royal Tire, 1695 University Ave. W., Saint Paul Succotash, 781 Raymond Ave., Saint Paul Tay Ho, 302 University Ave. W., Saint Paul Transformation Salon, 931 University Ave. W., Saint Paul

Richard Terrell

Minneapolis businesses

Courtesy of Richard Terrell

Page 12 • August 20 - August 26, 2012 • Insight News

insightnews.com

Expand access, reduce digital divide

By Antonio Lizano Recently I was invited to speak at the graduation ceremony for the very first Asian Media Technology Training. That night the Asian community was overflowing with gratitude as supportive families of the graduates filled the audience of over 100 people. The 15 graduating students were honored and proud to be the first group to take part in this media training provided by the Asian Community Technology Center, with assistance from the University of Minnesota’s Broadband Access Project.

Minor From 1 The idea is that at 64, I am deciding that if I want to live a long life, I need to be in better shape.

I started riding a bicycle last year. I was at the Minneapolis Urban League Family Day, coaxed into showing up on a bicycle by both my daughter, Batala McFarlane, and by my friends over at the Major Taylor Bicycle Club (MTBC). The Major Taylor people had been pushing me toward bicycling for a long time. I did the obligatory, “Yes, sure. Sure.” But it never happened. Things converged when MTBC organizer, Anthony Taylor, delivered a bicycle to me at home the night before the Urban League Family Day last August. I rode Family Day. And boy, did I love it!

Having succeeded in getting me into bicycling, Batala next said I should get a fitness trainer.

The training lasted six months and concentrated on teaching students the five most common ways to use media in today’s world. Topics of study covered how to put together a newspaper, how to craft interviews for radio broadcast, how to construct a website or a blog, how to develop social media strategy and how to create videos that can be used to transmit messages.

After the ceremony I talked to some of the graduates about what they wanted to do with their newfound knowledge.

Some of them had the idea to start a publication that would let people know about their

community, others were looking to reach out and connect with other communities. Some even wanted to use their new skills to develop a for-profit project that would focus on creating a magazine or radio program to promote the positive aspects of their community. Even though the amount of information was overwhelming the graduates pulled through. Now they have a whole new set of skills that will help them thrive in today’s media focused world. Also impressive is that so many of the graduates want to use what they learned to spread a positive message about their communities, showing the determination of people of

color to continue to make strides towards making their voices heard.

The course was created by the Asian Community Technology Center but none of this success would have been possible without the aid of the Broadband Access Project (BAP), a project run through the University of Minnesota’s Urban Research and Outreach/Engagement Center. This project, that seeks to lessen the digital divide by increasing broadband access, awareness, and use in four federally designated poverty zones in Minneapolis and St. Paul, is funded with the aid of a federal grant. It supports 12

new or enhanced community based public computer centers in four federally designated poverty zones in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Unlike computers in public libraries, there is no time limit on the use of BAP computers, and a trained apprentice is on hand at all times to provide personal, one-on onehelp to users. Because leaders of the project understand that computer adeptness has become a key job skill, the development of computer literacy through education is an important aspect of the BAP. Group classes targeting all levels of proficiency are offered at the larger BAP computer labs. These classes

cover topics regarding Microsoft Office, financial support, social media for business use, and even Internet programming and design. Since 2009 the BAP has opened doors for community members to develop the technological skills needed to succeed in today’s times.

The Asian Community Technology Center in partnership with the Broadband Access project looks forward to continuing technological training in order to lessen the growing digital divide among underserved communities in the Twin Cities metro. For more information please visit http:// www.bap.umn.edu/centers/actr

She was relentless. “Did you call him? Did you call him? Did you call Tyrone Minor?”

Tyrone Minor owns Chizel, Inc. I interviewed him for the “Conversations With Al McFarlane” public policy program on KFAI FM 90.3.

We talked about his vision and mission as a fitness trainer, and about me as his student, pursuing physical fitness for the first time earnestly, in the sixth decade of my life. The complete interview is archived at http://feeds. feedburner.com/insightnews/ conversationswithalmcfarlane.

Here are excerpts of the interview:

your approach to helping me understand the importance of physical training and fitness?

Tyrone Minor: I start with saying that I am just one piece of the puzzle. It is really about a lifestyle. Physical training is one aspect of that. If you are looking to enjoy a higher quality of life, you absolutely need to be involved in your health. Physical fitness is one aspect of that.

For you, I wanted to redefine what it means to be fit throughout your lifetime. As people age it really boils down to what I like to call functional fitness. That means having the strength to do the things that you need to do in life whether it is carrying groceries, doing chores or even being involved in recreational activities. As we age, we tend to think that we have to give up some of the things of our youth.

Actually, we can continue to do the things that we have always done and the things that we enjoy as long as we take care of the body.

AM: My wife and I changed our food regimen to a plan called the slow carb diet. We eat lots of lean protein and lots of vegetables, but no fruit, no sugar, no carbs, except for one day a week. One day a week you can eat whatever you want.

I am having great results with the fitness training and the slow carb diet so far. I am really pleased with that and I am committed to continuing. So what are you observing in me and how can what I am doing, what you are teaching me, be elevated to instruction for our community?

TM: What I see in you reminds me of our childhood enthusiasm. You are what I call “all in”-- you are fully invested.

You were discussing earlier how your daughter brought you along.

You were reluctant at first. That is the experience of many people.

I make the comparison to testing the water. If you run some bath water, you want to stick your toes in and see if it is too hot or too cold. That is usually people’s experience with physical fitness.

Because they have neglected their bodies for so long, they are reluctant to get started. They say to themselves, “I have dug myself in such a hole that I can’t get out.”

What ends up happening is either people start and do too much too soon and end up just quitting because they are not seeing the results, or they get injured.

But fitness is a process. What I have seen in you from day #1 is that you are committed to it.

You came in and you wanted to work hard and you wanted to be pushed. I don’t think you knew exactly how hard I was going to push you, but you definitely rose to the challenge. You know with my personal training and the way I do things I change it up. By changing the workout, I make sure that the person is stimulated mentally and physically.

I have seen you not only be fully invested with your own training, but because you are so invested, you are seeing the results. Now I see that enthusiasm being spread out to the community. It is basically like you have unlocked a secret and now you are trying to share it with the community.

I love a person who wants to work hard. That makes my job easier. My job is to make sure that they are safe and that I motivate them.

With many, many clients the biggest thing is motivation. You are one of the easier clients to work with because you bring the motivation. I just have to bring the heat. I bring a challenging and stimulating workout that is ageand fitness-level appropriate. I am thrilled with the results that we have seen so far together as a team. I am looking forward to where we can take this.

have plenty of talented people in track and field. In a sport like track and field, where there is not necessarily a professional level, you have to make a decision after college about what you are going to do with your career. For me, it balanced it out. I continued to compete doing my own training and I was able to take it to another level until I ended up qualifying for the Olympics trials in the 100 m, and went to the Nationals multiple times in the long jump.

I still hold numerous conference and section records.

We (St. Paul Central) were State champions in track and field, my senior year in high school. Actually, I believe we were one of the last urban champions in Minnesota history, and definitely in Saint Paul history.

So for me being fit and active has always been a part of my life. As I transitioned out of my own career, I wanted to share my experiences of being fit and active and what that can do for you. That is how I started Chizel, Inc.

Al McFarlane: I was maybe 40% committed to Batala’s idea, sort of yielding to pressure from her. But when I started the training I got committed instantly and that is where I am right now, committed to making this happen. So first of all, thank you. I am over 60 and looking for guidance in getting physically fit. When I called you, what was

AM: Tyrone, you have been a competitor forever. You got into the fitness training after a stellar athletic career both in Minnesota and around the globe.

You set track and field records in Minnesota that haven’t been broken yet.

TM: It’s kind of humbling for you to talk about my accomplishments. I started out as a football and track athlete in high school and fortunately for me I was able to take my track talent to a whole another level.

I ended up competing nationally and internationally in track, was a full scholarship athlete first at Drake University in Des Moines and then later at University of Minnesota.

Here is where my experience differed from many others. We

AM: So what is the mission of Chizel, Inc.? What is the vision?

TM: It is to have people reach the pinnacle of their physical fitness in a way that will translate into other aspects of their lives. I think of it as a triangle. Physical fitness goes along with being mentally sharp. And then there is a spiritual component. Physical fitness is one piece of that triangle, one corner, so to speak.

All of them work together and are necessary to be totally healthy.

AM: What have been the defining moments in your life that sort of made you who you are?

TM: In my neighborhood, there was a sense of competitiveness even in grade school. We pushed each other. I don’t know if there is one defining moment for me. I grew up with a lot of extremely talented athletes.

Where I did differ, though, was that I had that internal fire. I am a competitor.

So if someone was on my level, I wanted to make sure that they didn’t stay on my level. I worked to get better and be better.

For me, winning is good. I won a High School State championship my junior year. Some might win and become complacent. But I knew that winning meant there was a target on my back. That meant I knew I had to work harder.

MINOR TURN TO 14

insightnews.com

Insight News • August 20 - August 26, 2012 • Page 13

Princess Titus

Jamaree Eddington

Ivan Arrington

Qadiym Washington

Stephanie Gasca

Photos: Suluki Fardan

Jasper Kist

Students explore alternatives to violence

By Ivan B. Phifer Staff Writer With a seeming uptick in youth violence one organization has teamed up with a community park

to help youth create solutions.

Protect Minnesota, arranged by the Conflict Resolution Center, is a program providing instruction and classes to develop the Youth Leadership Peace Program at North Commons Park, 1710 Irving Av. N. The program was

launched July 19, and is a sixweek summer program that goes until Aug. 26.

“It’s about developing listening skills and communication; being able to recognize other perspectives and come to an agreement,” said Mary

Christianson, a volunteer with the Conflict Resolution Center.

Christianson trains the students in mediation and communication skills. “Conflict is a part of our lives, but we focus on positive ways to work with conflict.”

Jamaree Eddington, a 14-year-

old participant in the program who enjoys skateboarding, BMX biking and video games, said he learned how to get along with his peers and not become involved in violence.

“I didn’t really have anything to do, so instead of roaming the

streets I got involved with this program,” said Eddington. “We play games, sit down and talk and just have a good time.”

Ivan Arrington, a musical artist of North Minneapolis and Protect

YOUTH TURN TO 14

Vikings player E.J. Henderson joins fight against illegal guns The City of Minneapolis and its officials recognize that youth violence is a public health epidemic that requires a holistic, multi-faceted response.

The city, in partnership with a host of community stakeholders, including NFL player E.J. Henderson, Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak and other public officials released a public service announcement in which

Henderson calls on people to report illegal gun violence in order to protect youth.

“I love Minnesota and I’ve met so many great people here,” Henderson said in the PSA. “There are many kids working hard to succeed in school and on the field. Our young people can grow up to do amazing things, but I am troubled by the gun violence in our communities.”

The Department of Family

and Health Support for the City of Minneapolis has identified four goals in its so-called Blueprint for Action. These goals are to connect every youth with a trusted adult, intervene at the first sign that youth are at risk for violence, restore youth who have gone down the wrong path and unlearn the culture of violence in our community.

“We all need to come together to help protect our

youth,” said Henderson. “A kid’s life and their bright future could be in your hands. If you see an illegal gun, do not hesitate to say something about it.”

The initiative is a part of a national movement called Mayors Against Illegal Guns (MAIG). It comes during a time when the Washington, D.C. gun lobby is attempting to allow non-residents to carry

concealed and loaded guns in their communities.

According to Mark Glaze, Director of MAIG, forced gunlaw reciprocity is opposed by more than 625 mayors, many national, regional and state law enforcement organizations, a coalition of more than 30 national religious groups, a coalition of 56 domestic violence victim advocacy organizations, the American

Prosecutors Association, attorney generals, faith leaders and many others who care about states’ rights and public safety.

“Unlike Florida, at least 23 states currently give police discretion to deny a concealed carry permit if the applicant has an arrest record or pattern of behavior that suggests that he would be a threat to others,” Glaze said.

Page 14 • August 20 - August 26, 2012 • Insight News

insightnews.com

COMMUNITY

The children’s crusade

By Maya Beecham On any given weekday morning in 1963 average schoolchildren stood upright in classrooms, hand over heart, reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. It was a customary act. Ironically, the lives of average Black children and their families during that time were at odds with the pledge’s line, “one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

Their humanity was threatened on a daily basis by the rule of Jim Crow laws and practices.

In 1963 Martin Luther King, Jr. and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) struggled with the need to revive the campaign to desegregate Birmingham, Alabama. In order to build momentum they made a

controversial decision to recruit students to serve as protesters for the Birmingham Civil Rights Movement.

A new pledge was taken. On May 2, 1963 nearly a thousand elementary, middle and high school students in Birmingham, Alabama changed the tide of the civil rights movement and sent ripple effects across the world by participating in The Children’s Crusade. They skipped school and marched from Sixth Street Baptist Church to downtown Birmingham utilizing the tactics of nonviolent direct action, taught to them by the SCLC and the Alabama Christian Movement for Civil Rights. As they approached police lines they were arrested and hauled off in school buses and paddy wagons. The children were undaunted. On May 3, 1963 hundreds more children showed

showedupandshowedout.wordpress.com

Birmingham Children’s March up to march. Bull Connor, commissioner of public safety in Birmingham, Alabama at the time ordered firemen to attack the children with fire hoses and the police force to assault them

Calendar • Classifieds Send Community Calendar information to us by: email, natalie@insightnews.com, by fax: 612-588-2031, by phone: (612) 588-1313 or by mail: 1815 Bryant

Assumed Name 1. State the exact assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted: Rebecca’s Cookie Curb 2. State the address of the principal place of business: 4540 Ximines LN N, Plymouth, MN 55442 USA 3. List the name and complete street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name OR if an entity, provide the legal corporate, LLC, or Limited Partnership name and registered office address. Attach additional sheet(s) if necessary: Rebecca Susan Rabb, 4540 Ximines LN N, Plymouth, MN 55442 USA 4. I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Minnesota Statues section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.

Primary From 1 Trugeon said if there is to be a recount; Cole would have to request it through Hennepin County.

Minnesota House district 59B encompasses the lower portion of North Minneapolis and downtown.

Fax: 612.588.2031

Email: natalie@insightnews.com

Events

Supervising Attorney – Senior Law Project, Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid. For details go to http://www.mylegalaid.org/jobs.

Insight News: 8/13/2012, 8/20/2012

Phone: 612.588.1313

of the Southern Poverty Law Center’s documentary on the 1963 Children’s March, as a kick-off to the Minneapolis Urban League 2012 Family Day. The event will take place at the Glover Sudduth Center for Economic Development & Urban Affairs, 2100 Plymouth Ave N, Minneapolis, MN 55411.

The free event includes a social hour with food beginning at 6:00p.m., and the film screening at 7:00p.m. The evening will conclude with a panel discussion facilitated by Professor and Community Elder Mahmoud El Kati, and featuring panelists Dr. Rose Brewer and Dr. John Wright from the University of Minnesota. The event was sponsored by African American Leadership Forum, Headwaters Foundation for Justice, and Minneapolis Urban League.

Ave. N. Minneapolis, MN 55411, Attn: Natalie Benz. Free or low cost events preferred.

Supervising Attorney

Signed by: Rebecca Susan Rabb Date Filed: 07/03/2012

with batons and dogs.

Strong arm tactics by the police were to no avail. Violent images of children being attacked were televised and printed in newspapers nationwide. The

U.S. Department of Justice intervened and the campaign to desegregate Birmingham ended on May 10, 1963, with an agreement between SCLC and local officials to halt demonstrations and boycotts in lieu of releasing protesters from jail and desegregating downtown stores. Within a matter of weeks Birmingham Board of Education suspended and expelled students from school.

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and SCLC fought the issue in the local federal district court, where the ruling was upheld. On May 22, 1963, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals reversed the decision.

On Friday, August 24, in honor of the 49th year anniversary of the Children’s Crusade, Group Solidarity is hosting a special screening

Community Conversation about Storytelling in Video Games Aug 21 “Choosing Your Own Adventure: Where Do Video Games and

Come taste what you’ve been missing! - Aug 23

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Warm Up To Raw with a soup favorite – Oh My Chili with Glitz crackers and Spicy Cheddar Cheese. You won’t believe it’s raw!

August 23rd at Mississippi Market Co-op 1500 West 7th Street.

Pre-registration is required.

Tasty Summer Salads and Dressings to Live For Valley Outreach Teaching Kitchen, 1901 Curve Crest Blvd. W., Stillwater.

Pre-Registration at River Market Co-op 221 N. Main St., Stillwater, MN 55082 651-439-0366.

Please register two days prior to the scheduled class.

by it. Abortion inordinately affects the African American community, visit: http://blackgenocide.org/ home.html. 40 Days for Life will run from Wednesday September 26 - Sunday, November 4 For more information visit the local website: http://www.40daysforlife.com/ twincities and or call Rev. Brian Walker, Twin Cities coordinator: 651-771-1500 ext 211.

Khalifa Aug. 22 Akmed Khalifa holds bachelor of arts and master of arts degrees from Metro State University, and is currently a candidate for a master of fine arts degree in writing at Hamline University.

The author will sell and sign his book after the event. Free and open to the public. Wed. Aug 22 6–8pm at NorthPoint Health and Wellness 1313 Penn Ave North, Minneapolis, MN 55411.

Storytelling Meet?”

Tue. Aug. 21, 6pm at Honey, 205 E. Hennepin Ave. The Loft and Coffee House Press are teaming up to address questions in a discussion led by moderator Chris Fischbach, with panelists Andy McNamara

(editor-in-chief of Game Informer magazine); Reinhardt Suarez (teaching artist for the Loft’s firstever video game narrative class); and Erika Stevens (Coffee House Press editor and gamer).

In nonpartisan primaries, the top two vote getters for every open seat move on to runoff in the November general election.

In other races, Rep. Joe Mullery won easily over Marcus Harcus in district 59A and will face Republican Cindy Lilly in the general election.

That district covers the upper portion of North Minneapolis.

Congressman Keith Ellison will move on to face Chris

Fields in the November general election for the Fifth District U.S. House seat. Ellison easily defeated his two DFL primary opponents, capturing nearly 90 percent of the vote. Field was unopposed on the Republican side.

Controversial Rep. Michele Bachmann breezed through the Republican primary in the Sixth Congressional District. She will face off with Jim Graves

in November. Graves ran unopposed in the DFL primary.

In Brooklyn Park the results for the nonpartisan race for East District Member were Peter Crema, 771, Dakota Huseby, 291, Reva Chamblis, 223, David Anderson, 188 and Bernard Omwenga Muko, 125.

In the special election for West District seat, just five votes separated Bob Mata (536) from Wynfred Russell (531) with

Joseph Meyer Gearin receiving 215 votes.

In Robbinsdale, George Selman captured 640 votes in the race for mayor to move on to face off against Regan Murphy who received 583 votes. In the city’s race for Ward 1 Council Member, William Blonigan received 242 votes, Barbara Richardson got 85 votes and Brian Lease had 58.

I look at my training business the same way. I look at what other trainers are doing and if those people are close to me,

that means I need to step my game up because I want to be a State champion. I want to be that premier training service.

There is a saying in sprinting when a person that is really fast and can continue to get faster as the race goes on. They say “if we are even, I am leavin.’” That is how I feel. If I am even with you then that means I am about to leave you, I am going to take off on you.

are going public with your experience is great on many levels. One of them is there is accountability on your part. I mean you are putting yourself out there. So now you are going to have to make sure that you are going to stay on your game but also now you have broadened that support system that you have.

For many people, the support system is very important in keeping them on track with their fitness goals, even life goals, I am looking forward to Minneapolis Urban League Family Day because I am going to redefine what fitness is and what it means to be fit is.

TM: You can reach me at www.chizelinc.com and you can also call me 612-916-0930 or email at info@chizelinc.com

Looking for Christian Roommates?

North & South Minneapolis * $400/month + utilities urbanhomeworks.org/housing/urban-neighbors 612-910-6054 / un@urbanhomeworks.org

FT Parent Advocate Nonprofit seeks FT advocate to assist parents of children w/disabilities on education related issues. Position offers great benefits, competitive salary and rewarding environment. Call PACER 952-838-9000 or www.pacer.org/employment.

Parents of children with disabilities are encouraged to apply. EEO/AA

In the nonpartisan race for the District 2 County Commissioner seat, City Councilman Don Samuels received 961 votes even though he announced in July that he was dropping out of the race.

The top two, who will move on to the November ballot, are Linda Higgins – who easily outpaced a crowded field with 4,695 votes – and Blong Yang who captured 1,852 votes.

651-690-0507.

Minor From 12

40 Days for Life Twin Cities training meetings - Aug 21 & Sept 13 A campaign of prayer and fasting for the end of abortion and healing for the women and men affected

Black Men Reading: Akmed

AM: The competitiveness you are describing is not a question of tripping the other guy up. You are saying you are simply being yourself and your propensity is to win, to excel and to cross the finish line. How do we foster that attitude as the defining character of our community.

TM: The fact that you

Youth From 13 Minnesota staffer expressed a sense of hopelessness area youth may feel.

“Growing up in certain situations, it (violence) is almost inevitable,” said Arrington. “We do not want to see these kids go through the pain we went through, as far as jail or death is concerned, or as we call it ‘the trap’, which is what it really is.”

Jasper Kist, 11, said he joined the program to help stop violence in Minneapolis. He explained how an exercise in communication illustrated how a simple statement can lead to conflict.

“Somebody told the class a story. One group of people told it to another group of people and so on, until the last person reported back what they heard to see if the story was similar,” said Kist.

“By the time the story was

YOUTH TURN TO 15

insightnews.com

Youth

Insight News • August 20 - August 26, 2012 • Page 15 should not be on the streets.

“My uncle and close friend died from violence when I was nine,” said Washington. “Violence is not the key to solve your problems. Solve it violence free.”

Stephanie Gasca, a Youth Leadership Program volunteer, became involved through an event were victims of gun violence

held a protest. Gasca, who also coached a baseball team, jumped at the chance to volunteer at North Commons for the program.

“I met Heather (Martens, Executive Director of Protect Minnesota, at the protest), who informed me of upcoming Protect Minnesota meetings. She mentioned the program was at

North Commons Park, where my son played football and baseball,” she said.

Princess Titus, whose son, Anthony Titus, was shot and killed July 4, 2010, is a part of a healing group called From Death to Life; a group for parents who either have children in prison for murder, or who have lost

their children to gun violence. It was through that group in which she was introduced to Protect Minnesota. Titus is optimistic, yet realistic in the task of getting youth to solve their problems nonconfrontationally.

“So far the response is positive and we have a good turnout,” Titus said. “I thought it was really

cool to see (a) student helping another next to him, who is not like him, demonstrate diversity and teamwork.

For more information on the program, contact Protect Minnesota at (651) 645-3271 or visit www.protectmn.org.

diabetes.

From 10

type 2 diabetes within 5 to 10 years if not controlled through preventative health education and medication.

As a warning, presentation of one or more of these clinical signs may not necessarily signify that the individual has diabetes but only your healthcare provider can make such a determination and judgment through special laboratory tests.

The last type of diabetes is called gestational diabetes. This develops only during pregnancy.

Incidence of gestational diabetes has been observed more often in women of African descent, Native American and Hispanics. Women who have gestational diabetes have a good chance of developing

What can happen to me if my diabetes was not properly treated or controlled?

Diabetes is now one of the leading causes of death and disability in the United States. Diabetes has been associated with long-term complications that affect almost every part of the person’s body.

When untreated it could lead to blindness, heart and blood vessel disease, stroke, kidney failure, amputations of limbs, and nerve damage. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to complications in pregnancy, including birth defects in babies born to women with

that means the patient must learn to manage their illness through ways their physician would prescribe. Generally treatment for diabetes includes insulin shots, use and compliance with prescribed medications, making wise food choices (eating healthy foods), engaging in regular exercise and weight loss. These are summarized below: 1. If you are overweight attempt to lose weight. Excess body fat causes the body cells to become resistant to insulin so attempt at reducing your body fat hence your weight.

2. Eat healthy food and Follow the Pritikin Eating Plan for diabetes. Eat choice carbohydrates over refined carbohydrates. Eat plenty of

fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes. Your diabetic nurse will assist you with the development of such eating plan.

3. Exercise regularly and increase your daily activity level. Regular exercise regime and physical activities decreases insulin resistance in muscle cells hence allow more glucose to enter the cells and be metabolized.

4. Cut down on your fat and cholesterol intake. Reduction in fat and cholesterol intake in our diets generally reduces the blood cholesterol levels and thus assists with weight loss.

5. Do not over indulge in foods, but eat small, frequent meals. This helps to keep blood sugars within a healthy range.

Eating large meals at a time

can flood the bloodstream with glucose.

6. Visit your doctor to get screened for diabetes and to receive preventative health education. Finally if you are diabetic, you must be compliant with your medication.

For more information and questions on diabetes and other health related matters, please contact Crown Medical Center or visit us at www. crownmedicalcenter.org

because of the opportunities that did come because I had to fight harder for roles.

would that be for?

CE: That Sparkle’s a huge hit! [LOL]

up there. In terms of artists, this will change, but I’m really into a performance artist named Marina Abramovic’ right now.

KW: When you look in the mirror, what do you see?

CE: Oh, my goodness me!

[Chuckles] A mommy.

KW: The Ling-Ju Yen question: What is your earliest childhood memory?

CE: Summers in Scotland when I was 3.

From 14 finished, it had completely changed,” said Arrington Qadiym Washington, 11, became involved with the program because he believes guns

Diabetes

Egojo From 9 our movie pays homage to the original, but it’s definitely different in numerous ways.

KW: What message do you think people will take away from the movie?

CE: It’s essentially about not letting your light be dimmed by anybody who doesn’t appreciate the dream that you’re trying to pursue. It’s about knowing who you are, and following your path even if you’re not given support by those around you. And it’s also about family.

KW: Editor/Legist Patricia Turnier says: I looooooved your performance in Metro. She asks: Do you enjoy being a member of Mensa and what is your IQ? CE: [LOL] That is hilarious!

Oh my God! I had no idea until recently that my being in Mensa was even on Wikipedia or somewhere else. It is true, but it’s funny that it should come up as interview question.

KW: So, how high is your I.Q.?

CE: 156, for anyone that’s interested. But I probably wouldn’t be able to get as high a score after raising two kids and losing a lot of brain cells in the process.

KW: Patricia also says: Musicals are an amazing art form. We used to see a lot of them with people like Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly and The Nicholas Brothers. They were an integral part of Hollywood and it was common to see actors sing, dance and act. But by the 1950s, the decline began and we rarely see big musicals anymore besides Chicago. How do you explain this phenomenon and what do you think it will take to reverse the trend?

CE: I’m not a film historian, so I couldn’t say for sure. But my guess is that the costs involved in making musicals was pretty high, and that the taste of what was pleasing to movie audiences changed by the time you got into the Sixties and Seventies. I was a big fan of John Cassavetes, his wife, Gena Rowlands, and that era of filmmaking which was about realism and which represented the antithesis of the dreamy escapism you found in musicals. I’m guessing that musicals didn’t make sense anymore because of the changes in the political environment that began in the late Sixties, an era of self-awareness and social revolutions. Musicals are finally kind of coming back to a degree now, perhaps out of a sense of nostalgia.

KW: Marcia Evans says: I’m a huge fan of yours. I loved your role in my favorite film, Lackawanna Blues. I was so proud that HBO showcased such an amazing story about a piece of the patchwork to our cultural history quilt. You PLAYED that role! What was it like for you to portray Alean, and to be paired opposite the gorgeous and talented Jimmie Smits?

CE: What’s interesting is that that role was actually Halle Berry’s. She had to pull out at the very last minute, which meant I literally had only a couple of days to prepare for that role. Honestly, it was like baptism by fire, because I was so underprepared that I had to work on instinct. I was feeding off the energy of those excellent actors while trying to find my place which made it a really exciting experience for me.

KW: April Hughes asks: What was it like working with Whitney Houston?

CE: Amazing! She is an icon, and she brought a passion from the heart for telling Sparkle’s story that made her an inspiration to watch every day and it also made it a pleasure to perform opposite her.

KW: April would also like to know if you have any advice for aspiring actresses/singers?

CE: Yes, go back and watch the great performances in your business so that you can understand the heights that should be aspired to. There are many mediocre entertainers who don’t aspire to much more than fame and glory. It’s very easy to have them as your role models because there aren’t as many greats. Go back, discover the greats, and take it from there.

KW: Larry Greenberg says: I read that your director, Salim Akil, worked with schizophrenics before he started working with actors. He asks: Did that make him a more patient director than others you have worked with?

CE: Oh my God! I had no idea. But that makes sense. He is literally the calmest director I’ve ever worked with. He was so willing to step back and let us do our work without feeling that he had to interfere and tell us what to do just for the sake of looking like a director. He had such confidence in himself.

So, it wouldn’t surprise me, if he’s had experience outside of the business, because he has much deeper soul than that.

Working with people troubled in that way could be great training for working with actors who themselves can be a little schizophrenic at times. [Laughs]

Who is at risk of getting diabetes?

Diabetes is not an infectious disease like the common cold.

That means you cannot get it from your spouse, friend, child or coworker. Certain factors can increase your risk of developing diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes occur equally among males and females, but is more common in whites than in nonwhites, while type 2 is more common in people of African descent, Native Americans and some Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders.

Treatment of diabetes Since diabetes is a chronic illness

really simple but the flavor is so pungent and intense that I feel like I’m a real chef whenever I create it.

KW: Harriet Pakula Teweles says: You’ve portrayed Coretta Scott King and Sally Hemmings.

She’s wondering whether there’s another historical figure you’d like to play in a biopic?

CE: I’d love to play Betty Davis, one of Miles Davis’ wives.

She was sort of like Madonna before there was a Madonna. I’d love to play a full-out rocking chick. Like a Sister 2.0.

KW: Dante Lee, author of “Black Business Secrets,” asks: What was the best business decision you ever made, and what was the worst?

CE: Leaving my first agent was both my best business decision and my worst business decision. It depends on how I want to look at my career because of opportunities that may have come had I stayed with him and

KW: How hard is it to balance working and parenting, giving that you and Jeffrey are both actors?

CE: It explains why I haven’t been onscreen very much the last ten years. [Laughs] It’s very hard.

It’s been getting easier as I give myself permission to work again.

It’s all about my guilt level.

KW: Is there any question no one ever asks you, that you wish someone would?

CE: Great question! Ooooh, gosh! You know what? That is a question I don’t have an answer for. You’ve stumped me!

KW: If you could have one wish instantly granted, what

KW: The Judyth Piazza question: What key quality do you believe all successful people share?

CE: That depends on how you define success. Success for me will be where the body of work I’ve done afforded me the opportunity to be as good as I can be, and to explore myself and to see what I’m capable of. People like that share a willingness to be scared and to take chances.

KW: The Rudy Lewis question: Who’s at the top of your hero list?

CE: Oh man, it’s so hard to answer that. In terms of dignitaries, Nelson Mandela’s

Joyce Onyekaba, M.D. is a US civil surgeon a Board certified Internist and Medical Director at Crown Medical Clinics in Minneapolis and Brooklyn Park, Minnesota.

KW: The Sanaa Lathan question: What excites you?

CE: My children.

KW: The Teri Emerson question: When was the last time you had a good laugh with them?

CE: There’s a lot of laughter in our house. I get their American/ British sense of humor and they get my British sense of humor.

KW: The Tavis Smiley question: How do you want to be remembered?

CE: Oh my! I’m a bit young to be asked that. [Laughs] KW: Yes, you are. Sorry.

Thanks again for the time, Carmen, and best of luck with Sparkle.

CE: Thank you, Kam.

Many Faces. One Territory.

KW: The Tasha Smith question: Are you ever afraid?

CE: Oh yeah. A lot. The great fear I’ve had to overcome, particularly this past year, is the fear of failure. It can be safer to stay in a comfort zone that’s not stretching yourself. I tried to overcome that fear playing Sister. You have to be willing to be afraid, if you’re going to be an artist.

KW: The Columbus Short question: Are you happy?

CE: Yes. I’m happier than I’ve been for a very long time, for all kinds of reasons. I’m glad my kids are happy. I’m grateful that my work is going well. I’m happy that this moment in my career arrived at this age, because I’m ready for it in a way that I might not have been at 20.

KW: What is your guiltiest pleasure?

CE: I don’t have a lot of guilt.

KW: The bookworm Troy Johnson question: What was the last book you read?

CE: Darwin’s “Cathedral”.

It’s about evolution and religion and it’s gonna serve me well for Zero Hour, my new TV show that I start filming soon. http:// www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ ASIN/0226901351/ref=nosim/ thslfofire-20 KW: I see that you’ll also be starring opposite Tyler Perry in Alex Cross this fall.

CE: That’s right! That’s coming out in October. That was fun, too!

KW: What is your favorite dish to cook?

CE: I make a really delicious eggplant and squash curry that’s inspired by Vij of Vij’s Restaurant, a great chef and restaurateur in Vancouver. I like to cook that dish because it’s

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Page 16 • August 20 - August 26, 2012 • Insight News

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