DJ Charlie Chan Soprano coming to Minneapolis Run DMC’s DJ to spin at Darby’s on Sept. 21 MORE ON PAGE 5
Vol. 40 No. 38 • The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com
Corey Collins/Moda Photography
September 16 - September 22, 2013
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he Insight-2-Health Fitness Challenge kicked-off on Saturday, Sept. 7. The program is a collaboration between McFarlane Media Interests (MMI), Insight News’ parent company, and The F.I.T. Lab, Co., a St. Paul, Minn., fitness studio owned by Tyrone Minor, a certified personal trainer.
Pictured above, challenge participant Erick Goodlow tests how many curl-ups he can complete in one minute. The F.I.T. Lab, Co. fitness trainers Tyrone Minor (l), Adam Stein (c) and Rachel Schutz watch and count reps. Inset: Challenge participant Tene Wells tests how many squats she can complete in one minute while Adam Stein and Rachel Schutz observe. For more information, turn to page 12.
Carter leads NACo focus on human services, education
MINNEAPOLIS CITY COUNCIL
5th ward contest heats up By Abeni Hill Minneapolis 5th Ward city council candidates recently participated in a candidates’ forum which provided them an opportunity to explain how, if elected, their time in office would impact the community. The candidates who participated in the forum on Saturday, Sept. 7, included Ian Alexander, Brett Buckner, Kale Severson and Blong Yang.
Ian Alexander
Brett Buckner
Blong Yang
MN Neighborhoods Organizing for Change (NOC) hosted the forum at the Capri Theater, 2027 Broadway Ave. N., Minneapolis. While NOC
wrote most of the questions, other community organizations and audience members were invited to submit questions as well. Topics ranged from the
employment gap to affordable housing and homelessness.
COUNCIL TURN TO 4
Obama opts for diplomacy instead of war By George E. Curry NNPA Columnist WASHINGTON (NNPA) – Speaking to a war-weary nation Tuesday night, President Barack Obama asked Congress
to postpone a vote authorizing him to launch an air attack against Syria while he explores a Russian diplomatic proposal that could rid Syria of its arsenal of chemical weapons. In a televised 16-minute
address from the White House, Obama said: “…over the last few days, we’ve seen some encouraging signs. In part because of the credible threat of U.S. military action, as well as constructive talks that
I had with President Putin, the Russian government has indicated a willingness to join with the international community in pushing Assad to
OBAMA TURN TO 4
FORT WORTH, TEXAS – Ramsey County Commissioner Toni Carter recently joined 2,300 fellow county officials from across the country during the 2013 National Association of Counties (NACo) Annual Conference held in Fort Worth, Texas. The commissioners convened to establish national policies for counties and to work collaboratively on innovative solutions to the challenges that face American communities. At the conference Commissioner Carter was appointed to serve as chair of the NACo Steering Committee on Human Services and Education by NACo President, Commissioner Linda Langston of Linn County, Iowa. “I am thankful for the opportunity to advance policies and partnerships to help counties meet the most pressing needs of people in our communities,” said Carter. Active in the Association of Minnesota Counties (AMC)
NNPA
Commentary
Business
Ben Jealous resigns as NAACP president
High school students can earn college credit
How to move from lightbulb moment to flipping the on switch
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Toni Carter, Ramsey County Commissioner and NACo since her election to the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners in 2005, Carter also serves as 1st Vice President of AMC, and on
CARTER TURN TO 11
Motivational Moments Turn your passion into your dream job
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Page 2 • September 16 - September 22, 2013 • Insight News
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Ben Jealous resigns as NAACP president By Freddie Allen NNPA Washington Correspondent WASHINGTON (NNPA) – Five years ago, Benjamin Jealous, president and CEO of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, made two promises. The first was to the NAACP to help the organization get to the next level, revitalizing the mission and the relevancy of the storied civil rights group for the 21st century and old and new battles ahead. The second promise was to his then 3-yearold daughter that he would return to being a full-time daddy in five years. He says now is the time to keep that second promise. “Leadership involves
Freddie Allen/NNPA
Benjamin Jealous, president and CEO of the NAACP addresses the audience at the August 24th National Action to Realize the Dream March in Washington, D.C. commemorating the 1963 March on Washington, for Jobs and Freedom in Washington, D.C. knowing when to step up, and when to step down,” Jealous said Monday on a telephone call with reporters. Looking back at his
accomplishments, he mentioned how the annual revenue of the NAACP doubled from $23 million in 2007 to $46 million in 2012. Donors also increased
from 16,000 to 132,000 over the same period. According to Jealous, the NAACP has more activists online (1.3 million) and on mobile devices (more
than 430,000) than any other civil rights organization. “We’re not just more powerful and more effective and larger, we are also financially solvent and more sustainable,” Jealous said with pride. And many activists agree. Ron Daniels, president of the Institute of the Black World 21st Century, a group that works to build economic social and political power in Black communities, said that Jealous energized the NAACP by bringing a lot of young talented and gifted people on board. He also said Jealous highlighted the issues of environmental justice, mass incarceration and the war on drugs. “[Jealous] uplifted these issues as being vitally important to healing and revitalizing
sectors of Black America moving forward,” said Daniels. “There is a way that people tend to stay in these positions for a very long time, five years is not a long time. His tenure was really successful and I was actually looking forward to more.” Al Sharpton, president and founder of the National Action Network, said that he had mixed emotions when he learned that Ben Jealous would resign from the NAACP. “I am happy that he has done so well and leaves his post with no scandal, shame, or physical challenges, and young enough to have a bright future,” said Sharpton in a press release. “There is sadness, however, because for the last several years he has
JEALOUS TURN TO 3
Minneapolis veteran gets home makeover Nathaniel Hull, an Army veteran who served his country in Vietnam
received the gift of a lifetime on Sept. 11, as 40 volunteers from
The Home Depot Foundation and the Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity renovated his home. Struggling physically and financially to make needed home repairs, Hull worked alongside these volunteers as they installed new windows, fans, air conditioning units, and a wheelchair ramp. Volunteers also remodeled Hull’s bathroom to make it easily accessible, waterproofed the basement and made repairs to the front porch. This effort in Minneapolis is part of The Home Depot Foundation’s third annual Celebration of Service campaign, a two-month initiative between Sept. 11 and Veterans Day that is designed to address the unique housing needs of veterans and their families. Since 2011, The Home Depot Foundation has invested more than $470,000 in the Minneapolis area to renovate veterans’ homes and facilities. The Home Depot Foundation’s Celebration of Service campaign, is a five-year, $80 million commitment, to military veterans and their families that seeks to
Team Depot
Nathaniel Hull’s Home ensure they have a safe place to call home. This year, foundation will invest $3 million, and more than 9,000 thousand Home Depot associates will complete more than 350 service projects across the country. On any given night last year, 62,619 veterans were homeless.
There are currently about 22 million veterans living in the U.S. – 3.5 million of whom have service-connected disabilities and 40 percent of whom are over the age of 65. Many need accessibility modifications to live comfortably and safely or are unable to perform maintenance on their
homes. The inability to modify, maintain and repair their homes impacts not only the veterans, but their families and caregivers as well. For more about Team Depot’s activities throughout Celebration of Service, visit www. homedepotfoundation.org.
Nolan Cramer
North beats Southwest By Nolan Cramer
In North Community High School’s first game of the 2013 football season, it was on the edge of equaling its entire 2012 winning record when the team faced St. Paul Como Park. But a missed two-point conversion as time ran out handed the Polars a 27-26 loss. At the end of the game head coach Charles Adams III, assured the team that if it did not ditch its spirit of commitment and determination it could anticipate better results on the Southwest High School Lakers turf, Friday Sept. 6. With true grit to match last year’s record and the game strategy in place, the Polars made their move on the very first play of the game against Southwest – an onside kick. As North’s Martice Clark kicked off, he squibbed a 10 yarder, which slithered through the surprised grasp of Southwest’s Chris Calland, and allowed Notrh’s Dallas Griffith to make the recovery and set up the Polars quarterback, Tyler Johnson for the first touchdown of the game. Johnson hit Malik Mathews for the first of seven touchdowns in the game for North. North receiver, Kyon Thomas, also hauled in a touchdown catch. Lakers starting quarterback, Al-Jureau Ray threw for four touchdowns in a losing cause as the final score had the Polars on top 48 - 24.
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Insight News • September 16 - September 22, 2013 • Page 3
COMMENTARY High school students can earn college credit Nobody Asked Me
By Fred Easter Nobody asked me, but since young folk everywhere are heading back to school, my thoughts turn to that pesky “achievement gap.” I had the opportunity, earlier this year, to do some work for the Center for School Change and, indirectly, the Minnesota State Department of Education. In so doing, I learned a lot about Dual Credit Programs that are available to high school students beginning as early as 9th grade. There is an alphabet soup of dual credit programs under an umbrella called PSEO (Post
Secondary Education Options). CIS (College In the Schools) is one. AP (Advanced Placement) is another. IB (International Baccalaureate) is yet another. Dual credit means students can earn both high school and college credit while in high school. As you might imagine, students who arrive at college, whether the two or four year variety, with credits in hand, spend significantly less time and money there. Work done while in high school is free to the students – no tuition, no cost for books. Generally, at least one of these options is available at most high schools, Charter schools and some alternative schools as well. The work I referred to was aimed at opening up these creditearning pathways to students who achieved at a level below the school’s academic stars. As my father used to tell me, school is 95 percent perspiration and 5 percent inspiration.
As my Father used to tell me: School is 95% perspiration and 5% inspiration. No point in my trying to lay out in some organized fashion how each of these programs work. Counselors are much better suited for that. But – and this is important – don’t let them tell you that your child isn’t capable and don’t you believe either, that the knucklehead you see around
the house isn’t college material. When I was a senior in high school, I met with my “college counselor” for about 20 seconds. Long enough for her to shuffle through some papers and say, “Easter, you are not college material. Get a job.” My parents had one high school diploma
between them. I can make this a longer story, but, the punch line is, this past May, I traveled to Cambridge, Mass. to celebrate our 50th reunion with my classmates at Harvard University. I’ll be the first to admit that I didn’t dominate Harvard while I was there, but I earned “the paper” fair and square. Won the college’s public speaking prize, too. In my experience, which includes a stint as associate director of admissions at Carleton College, the finest human beings on the planet are high school counselors, but, so are the worst. Back in New York City, teachers got deployed as “college counselors” when they could no longer manage a classroom. Many parents, far too many, think,“We don’t have the money to send this kid to college.” It’s a mistake to give up before they start. There are scholarships, loans and work
available to students. All colleges and universities have scholarship funds in accounts that they cannot use to pay their own bills until they attach a student’s name to it. In short, they give you money so you can give it back to them to put in their “other pocket.” These days, President Obama is talking a lot about the crushing loans college graduates leave with. I hope something gets done. But, whether or not it does, consider that research shows that college grads will earn over $1 million more in their lifetimes than folk who don’t graduate from high school. Who wouldn’t beg or borrow $30,000 for a million dollar payout? Over a 42-year working career, that’s an additional $23,000 per year. Look into dual credit courses. I’ll be bugging you about this in subsequent columns. Give a kid a chance – particularly, if it’s yours.
Civil society provides common ground in Syria INSIGHT NEWS www.insightnews.com
Insight News is published weekly, every Monday by McFarlane Media Interests. Editor-In-Chief Al McFarlane CFO Adrianne Hamilton-Butler Publisher Batala-Ra McFarlane Associate Editor & Associate Publisher B.P. Ford Vice President of Sales & Marketing Selene White Culture and Education Editor Irma McClaurin Director of Content & Production Patricia Weaver Sr. Content & Production Coordinator Ben Williams Production Intern Sunny Thongthi Distribution/Facilities Manager Jamal Mohamed Receptionist Lue B. Lampley Contributing Writers Harry Colbert, Jr. Julie Desmond Fred Easter Timothy Houston Alaina L. Lewis Darren Moore Alysha Price Photography Suluki Fardan Michele Spaise Contact Us: Insight News, Inc. Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Ave. N. Minneapolis., MN 55411 Ph.: (612) 588-1313 Fax: (612) 588-2031 Member: Minnesota Multicultural Media Consortium (MMMC), Midwest Black Publishers Coalition, Inc. (MBPCI), National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) Postmaster: Send address changes to McFarlane Media Interests, Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55411.
By Mel Duncan Founding Director Nonviolent Peaceforce MDuncan@nvpf.org During my visit to Syria and Lebanon last May, I met with representatives of the Syrian government, religious leaders, the Syrian Arab Red Crescent, Hezzbolah, the nonviolent opposition, the Free Syrian Army and the UN. Most importantly I talked with refugees in Lebanon and internally displaced people in rebel held territories in Syria. While the use of chemical weapons is deplorable, any action must be viewed through the lens of what will help lead to a just and lasting peace. Mass atrocities have accelerated for over two years killing more than 100,000 people, including many civilians. All sides have targeted civilians.
The end of the war will require a political, not military, settlement. There will be no quick or easy fixes. Firing Cruise missiles and bombing military sites will escalate the conflict in a tense region already teeming with weapons. These actions will fuel a furious spiral of violence. Syrians must decide Syria’s future. What started as a nonviolent uprising has been hijacked into a geo-political, sectarian war that is anything but civil. The displaced people I met don’t care a whit about these international crosscurrents. They want to go home. Yet the country is whip lashed by proxy wars: US-Russia, Iran-Saudi Arabia, Israel-Hezbollah and on and on. And religious differences have been inflamed in what was a secular country. As one colleague from Aleppo told me, “I didn’t know I was Sunni until I was 20.” At this very moment,
courageous Syrian women and men are working for a peaceful settlement. They are mostly ignored by the world. Most of them are opposed to the government. Some lean towards the regime. They are doing peacebuilding and reconciliation work. They are establishing local ceasefire zones. While differing in view points they share a commitment to a peaceful, pluralistic and democratic Syria. One nonviolent opposition leader explained, “We have much more in common with the ‘logical loyalists’ than the radical opposition. We don’t want to live under Sharia law.” The Syrians working nonviolently for a sustainable Syria deserve our support, not a fragmented, violent opposition who are committing war crimes. These civil society actors, a substantial number of who are women, provide the common ground for a peaceful
transition. They need diplomatic and financial support. Their leadership needs to be promoted in the international initiatives including Geneva II. Chairs at negotiating tables should not be reserved exclusively for men with guns. On the international level President Obama and other leaders can decrease the violence to allow civil society to do their work. They can help stop the flow of weapons. The US can start by withdrawing our support for armed actors and engaging Russia to follow suit. The two nations could exert tremendous pressure on their respective allies to stop supplying weapons. They could jointly offer a Security Council resolution sanctioning any nation supplying arms to any group in Syria. Likewise, the US and Russia could lead the way in establishing a ceasefire. They could create an
opening for the new leadership in Iran to play a constructive role. Unarmed civilian peacekeepers could be deployed to protect civilians and support Syrian civil society in preventing violence and building peace from the ground up. Such nonviolent peacekeepers could come from international civil society and thus, not represent national or multi-national interests. Indeed, unarmed civilian peacekeepers are working effectively today in such places as the Mindanao region of the Philippines, South Sudan and Colombia. As Congress debates a military intervention, we must engage our moral imaginations. A host of effective options lie between doing nothing and firing Cruise missiles. The methods are there. The people are ready. Will there be the political courage to invoke them?
My story: Towards a peaceful future in Syria
last customer saying, “Yellah, yellah,” the Arabic word for let’s go. I look around in amazement as so many different kinds of people live together peacefully, going to those cozy small, warm, Arabic houses sitting on Arabic couches; I remembering being in those houses that are now nothing more than dust and broken rocks. I take myself back and remember wondering at that time, “How much can you
thank someone who gives you a meal that cost them a week’s wages?” Syrians do that. They will just give you the best of what they have because you’re their guest and its culture to give you the best of what they have. Slaughter the fattened calf if you will. Syrian people are some of the most beautiful and peaceful people I have ever met. They love to share with you the best of what they have. My friendship with my husband grew as we traveled the Middle East. I looked up at the pyramids with him and his family. We saw the blue mosque and I watched on curiously as he and his family prayed, laughed, lived and loved with each other in a different way than I was familiar with. As time went on, I kept coming back to him for advice on how to deal with my family, friends and life. His words always rang with love and respect. There was something in his culture I wanted to be a part of, something so beautiful and
breathtaking. If someone had told me as a Christian American woman, at 26 I would be sitting in a mosque with my shoes off and my hair covered, converted to Islam and getting married, I would never have believed them. I had always been the woman who had envisioned the big church wedding, the white dress and walking down the aisle. The adventure has been amazing. My husband and I met overseas; he is Syrian with most of his family still living in Syria. We finally decided to have a small party and get married in Turkey on New Year’s Eve. Most of his family couldn’t make it because of the war and none of my family could not make it because of not having passports, extensive travel and lack of notice. Living with Syrians over the past nine months has taught me so much. It’s taught me to give whatever I have to help people because some will always have less than me. I cherished
staying awake all hours chatting, drinking tea and coffee because I’m with loved ones and those moments are worth more than sleep. I have come to realize while living with my husband’s family and hearing their stories that these people have lost so much. They still ask me to come into their homes to share their happiness. I may never be able to understand this fully. If it was me, I wonder if I would have lost all hope, if I would have given up. I have found Syrian people are so strong and so faithful to their culture and God. This is the face of the Syria I know and have experienced. They are kind, generous and willing to give because they love to share all they have. The past two months of my life in Turkey have been not only living next to, but living in a one bedroom apartment with my husband’s family. As a new bride this is not
interest in the organization that it would create a more livelier organization.” She said he accomplished that mission. “[Jealous] stayed on the case all the time and he made sure that the NAACP was in the forefront of trying to deal with the emerging issues,” Berry explained. “That it is positioned to deal with some of these major issues like the economy. He made it stronger and more possible for the [NAACP] to go to the next level.” Jealous said that once he steps down at the end of the year, he will dedicate more time at home being a dad, help train the next generation of leaders and work on a political action group that can help Black, Latino and other progressive candidates of color compete for leadership positions in the South. Jealous tenure was not without its problems. In 2010, the NAACP became embroiled in the
firing of Shirley Sherrod, an official at the U.S. Department of Agriculture. A doctored video posted by a right-wing website appeared to show Sherrod making racist remarks recounting how she didn’t’ help a White farmer as much as she should have. Without reviewing the original video, Jealous backed her dismissal. He later viewed the full tape, retracted his initial statement, and claimed he had been “snookered.” The NAACP urged Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack to give Sherrod her job back at the USDA. Sherrod accepted the NAACP’s apology and Jealous was able to put that incident behind him. As the NAACP begins its search for the next president and CEO, Berry said the organization still needs someone who can maintain the financial solvency and keep the progress going with the membership and the leadership.
Daniels said that it’s important that the next president of the NAACP continue to foster a strong relationship with the faithbased community. Rev. Amos Brown, pastor of Third Baptist Church in San Francisco, Calif. since 1976, agrees. “The Black church is the base for political engagement in the Black community and that’s why we have got to maintain that relationship with the church,” said Brown, an NAACP board member. “Because of our condition in this country, the Black folks of America are the most religious group of people in the world, and the Black church, for good or ill, has been our forum.” Jealous recognizes that he leaves the organization although stable at a time of great change in the country. Jealous said that the first century of the organization’s existence their work revolved around federal court cases.
Now in the second century, Jealous said that the NAACP’s focus has shifted from federal litigation to state legislation. Addressing issues at the state level will take more boots on the ground and more diverse collaborations. “We have to get much more adept at building big robust coalitions of people,” he said, listing the NAACP’s recent efforts in bringing together Black, Latino, gay rights groups and city council members representing Muslim and Arab populations to effectively combat the “stop-and-frisk” tactics conducted by the New York City Police Department. Recently, a judge ruled those tactics unconstitutional in practice a major victory for the NAACP and its partners. Jealous said, “That is how a democracy works and we in the civil rights community have been rising to that challenge and becoming more effective.”
By Alissa Jeub Two years ago when the war started in Syria, I saw my husband, my friend at the time, losing his hair by the handfuls because of the stress of watching the war in his country from overseas. A year and a half ago he couldn’t take not knowing the real situation in Syria. Despite my worry, he went to Syria; he and told me on our broken phone conversations that all was “OK” but it wasn’t good in remote areas. This is my story. This is one story out of millions. My story with Syria runs a little deeper than many Americans. I have walked in those dusty streets. Closing my eyes I can smell and taste the Falafel cooking, drinking that strange Arabic coffee as the prayer call rings out in the background. I can hear the salesmen trying to catch that
Jealous From 2 joined Marc Morial (National Urban League president), Melanie Campbell (president of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation), and me as we tried to broaden the civil rights leadership of the 21st century movement. Ben Jealous has operated with integrity and a real sense of hands-on activism.” Mary Frances Berry, history professor at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia and former chairperson of the United States Commission on Civil Rights, was on the NAACP selection committee to pick a successor to Bruce Gordon. “We expected him to make the organization financially solvent and he did,” said Berry. “We hoped by appointing someone younger and someone new that had a lot of energy and
Alissa Jeub
SYRIA TURN TO 11
Page 4 • September 16 - September 22, 2013 • Insight News
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BUSINESS How to move from lightbulb moment to flipping the on switch By Julie Desmond julie@insightnews.com Cartoon characters having good ideas are often shown with a light bulb over the head. Anyone who has ever had a good idea knows the feeling: thinking of something really terrific lights you up, gives you energy, puts a kind of electricity into the atmosphere that is hard to ignore. And yet, many, many brilliant ideas are abandoned. Were they bad ideas? Maybe, maybe not. Some people are genetically wired to generate ideas; other people are wired to execute. An ideas person can execute, but they need to know
Find out who is doing what you want to do, and try connecting with people involved. Why are they successful? Why are they failing? Gather some facts so you can learn from other people’s experience. Try finding experts willing to help you. Expert accountants can help you determine what your idea might cost in dollars. Expert legal folks can help you understand the regulatory or licensing hurdles you need to overcome. Graphic Designer Kathy told me her customers are mostly start-up businesses. She routinely talks them down from too-big launches. “You don’t need to do everything at once,” she explains. A simple website, a logo that can be used across the brand… starting a business on a shoestring is possible. Trust experts when they tell you to scale back your ideas. If they advise to go big or go home, go ask a few more
experts before you invest any more time or money. Once you know whether you want to pursue this idea, once you’re organized and you have a few good people to lean on, you are well on your way to flipping the switch that changes a good idea, a lightbulb moment, into a shining, successful reality.
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Plan Your Career
how. A few steps in the right direction can make it easier for people to move from lightbulb moment to the reality, the “On” switch. Try living together. Living with your idea for a while will help it gel in your mind. Some creative types experience an entire concept instantly – they can visualize the sculpture or they can see exactly what the new store or restaurant or product will look like. For others, a bright idea appears, followed by a series of related concepts which fit like a puzzle around the main thing. Before marriage, before committing anything more than your own imagination, give your idea some time to evolve. Try seeking out comparable ideas. There is no new idea under the sun. Whatever you think of next, it is not entirely unique. Even Apple computers carry parts from earlier models.
Julie Desmond is IT Recruiting Manager with George Konik Associates, Inc. Write to Julie at jdesmond@georgekonik. com.
Fundraising: Investment or afterthought? FUNdraising Good Times
By Mel and Pearl Shaw Investing in the fundraising operations of a nonprofit is an investment in the organization’s future. It takes time to build a fundraising program that is capable of securing revenue from multiple sources. It takes vision, planning, leadership and resources – including money.
Obama From 1 give up his chemical weapons. Assad has since admitted that it has these weapons, and even said they’d join the Chemical Weapons Convention, which prohibits their use.” In a speech originally planned to drum up support for military action against Syria, President Obama changed gears as he expressed willingness to exhaust all diplomatic initiatives before using force. “It’s too early to tell whether this offer will succeed, and any agreement must verify that the Assad regime keeps its commitments. But this initiative has the potential to
And, it doesn’t necessarily “pay off” right away. A fundraising program takes time and attention to mature. Often three-to-five years. And during that time the investment in fundraising needs to be consistent. Once a fundraising program is well established it can support a nonprofit organization or institution in meeting its revenue goals. But, again, it takes time. And even once established, it cannot be put on “automatic pilot.” Fundraising needs consistent attention from the organization’s top leadership. That means the CEO and board members have to be willing to cultivate and
solicit gifts all the time, not once in a while. The focus needs to be on building and sustaining a pool of prospective donors and funders. You need a pool who can collectively give three times the fundraising goal because not everyone who wants to give will be in a position to do so when asked. You have to know who these people are. You have to be in contact with them. You have to know what they want from a funding or giving relationship with your organization. Don’t wait until the organization needs money to build a fundraising program. That’s when it’s too late. Our recommendation: attract the
people and expertise to build and sustain your programs and simultaneously attract the people and expertise needed to raise money for the program in future years. It can take a minimum of 12 to 18 months to secure meaningful investments from foundations, corporations or individuals. Having a strong program that meets community needs doesn’t mean an organization will be able to raise money when funds are needed. Successful fundraising is the result of consistent planning and engagement. With the economy turning around and money beginning to flow again now is the time for
nonprofits to build sustainable fundraising programs. Prepare for future challenges. Get your house in order. Be proactive, not reactive. Build a program that attracts unrestricted funding as well as the “easier” to obtain restricted funding. Yes, it takes time and creativity to find ways to secure unrestricted funding: but if you don’t make the investment you won’t have the unrestricted funds. Ensure your board and CEO are committed to fundraising. Seek out volunteers who are fearless fundraisers. Create a fundraising plan that seeks funds from multiple revenue sources – not only foundation or government
grants. Attract, train and invest in committed and experienced staff. Review and refine your case for support. Articulate your uniqueness. Align your organization with community needs. Respond to the market. You can do it: it takes vision, planning, commitment and your time.
remove the threat of chemical weapons without the use of force, particularly because Russia is one of Assad’s strongest allies. I have, therefore, asked the leaders of Congress to postpone a vote to authorize the use of force while we pursue this diplomatic path.” Russia, a close ally of Syria, announced that it had gotten Syria’s agreement to turn over its chemical weapons to Russia, the United Nations and other countries. However, Russia is opposing a UN resolution that would authorize military action if Syria does not follow the outlined plan. President Obama announced that Secretary of State John Kerry will meet with his Russian counterpart in Switzerland on Thursday and that he would continue to hold
talks with Putin in an effort to break the stalemate with Syria. Opinion polls show that most Americans opposed taking military action against Syria although they are convinced Assad gassed his own people. The latest intervention by Russia gives Obama time to seek more support in Congress. There was little doubt that the president’s plan, at least in its present form, was headed for defeat on Capitol Hill. Postponing the vote spares President Obama public humiliation. In an uphill battle to shift public opinion, President Obama listed and answered many of the “hard questions” Americans have against being involved in yet another war: Won’t this put us on a slippery slope to another war? It is worth acting if we don’t take out Assad? What about the dangers of retaliation? Why should we get involved at all in this place that’s so
complicated, and where those who come after Assad may be enemies of human rights? Why not leave this to other countries, or seek solutions short of force? Why should we be the world’s policeman? Obama offered a point-bypoint rebuttal to each objection, all of which led back to the president’s primary theme: “If we fail to act, the Assad regime will see no reason to stop using chemical weapons. As the ban against these weapons erodes, other tyrants will have no reason to think twice about acquiring poison gas, and using them. Over time, our troops would again face the prospect of chemical warfare on the battlefield. And it could be easier for terrorist organizations to obtain these weapons, and to use them to attack civilians. “If fighting spills beyond Syria’s borders, these weapons could threaten allies like Turkey, Jordan, and Israel. And a failure to stand against
the use of chemical weapons would weaken prohibitions against other weapons of mass destruction, and embolden Assad’s ally, Iran — which must decide whether to ignore international law by building a nuclear weapon, or to take a more peaceful path. This is not a world we should accept. This is what’s at stake.” Obama provided graphic descriptions of the toll the turmoil in Syria has taken on its citizens. On Aug. 21, according to U.S. officials, Assad forces used chemical weapons that killed more than 1,400 people outside Damascus, many of them children. Obama said that put the death toll in Syria to at least 100,000 at the hands of Assad’s administration. The president said he understands the reluctance engage in another war. “Now, I know that after the terrible toll of Iraq and Afghanistan, the idea of any military action, no matter how limited, is not going to be
popular. After all, I’ve spent four and a half years working to end wars, not to start them,” he said. “Our troops are out of Iraq. Our troops are coming home from Afghanistan. And I know Americans want all of us in Washington – especially me – to concentrate on the task of building our nation here at home: putting people back to work, educating our kids, growing our middle class.” Still, the president said, the U.S. has a vested interest in what happens in Syria. “After careful deliberation, I determined that it is in the national security interests of the United States to respond to the Assad regime’s use of chemical weapons through a targeted military strike. The purpose of this strike would be to deter Assad from using chemical weapons, to degrade his regime’s ability to use them, and to make clear to the world that we will not tolerate their use.”
Council
Addressing funding for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, Yang brought up the $600 million Vikings Stadium. He argued that Minneapolis residents could get just as much funding to eliminate homelessness. “If we had the will to eliminate homelessness, we could fund it with $600 million,” said Yang. “The fact that we are not doing that is just a tragedy.” Alexander said that over the years funding for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund has decreased from $9 billion to $6 billion. “Politicians talk about doing things for the homelessness, but when push comes to shove, often the big money controls where money is spent.” If elected, Alexander said he would sit on the community development board that makes decisions about how money is delegated and work with organizations that assist people
who cannot afford housing. When questioned was about the employment gap, Yang said most of the hiring of minorities occurs in places that have a high percentage of minorities. By enforcing minority hiring bills, Yang said more minorities in north Minneapolis will have a greater opportunity of being hired. He also wants to work with the Minneapolis Civil Rights Department to get this issue resolved. “Get our Civil Rights Department to be funded properly so these minority hiring bills actually happen,” said Yang. Alexander said he would work with the city to get north Minneapolis schools up to code. “It is just unacceptable for above 50 percent of African-American males between the ages of 18-30 (to be unemployed or under employed),” said Alexander, who believes that the source of
the solution is better education. Buckner wants to create jobs through preservation of the city. “We have to start to think about an equitable solution to rebuild our community,” said Buckner. He said the infrastructure of the city is weak and North Minneapolis can hire workers to make the homes more physically sound. “Once we have the grand avenues, now we start to build better facilities,” said Buckner. “We need to start building for the next 100 years.” Before the candidates offered their opening statements, Mike Griffin from FairVote Minnesota acquainted voters with the new rank choice voting system, which will be used to help decided this November’s mayoral race. “That gives you more choice and more choice gives you more power,” said Griffin.
From 1 “Having a home and somewhere where you can actually have a roof over your head – especially in a climate like Minnesota – is not just critical, there is no other way around it,” said Buckner. Buckner said Minneapolis has a duty to stop homelessness and suggested working with various faith-based organizations to make sure no one is sleeping on the street. Severson said that faithbased organizations are not for everyone. “Not everybody uses faithbased organization to better themselves,” said Severson. “We need to be fully inclusive.” With Minnesota’s harsh winters, Severson agreed, access to housing is crucial. “Housing is a right in Minnesota, not just a choice.”
Copyright 2013 – Mel and Pearl Shaw Mel and Pearl Shaw are the authors of “Prerequisites for Fundraising Success.” They position nonprofits for fundraising success. Visit them at www.saadandshaw.com.
Courtesy of Charlie Chan Soprano
DJ Charlie Chan Soprano spins. Chan Soprano is the special guest DJ for Expressions Graphic T-Shirt Party, Saturday, Sept. 21 at Darby’s, 315 N. 5th Ave., downtown Minneapolis.
DJ Charlie Chan Soprano coming to Minneapolis Run DMC’s DJ to spin at Darby’s on Sept. 21
By Harry Colbert, Jr. Contributing Writer The art of DJing is still alive. For most of the time in hip-hop, DJs have played the background while the MC got most of the shine. But that wasn’t always the case. In fact, during the early days of hip-hip, it was the DJ that got top billing. Just look at the names of some of the pioneering groups in hip-hop – Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five (Flash was the DJ), DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince, (DJ) Eric B & Rakim. But at some point the culture shifted.
It became about the MC and the producer. The DJ was phased out on records. The sound of a record scratching has all but disappeared from hip-hop recordings. But during shows, no hiphop artist would dare take the stage without a capable DJ. And no party is complete without a skilled technician behind the turntables. And despite the fact many pop parties are being turned into a joke; clumsily spun by celebrities such as Paris Hilton and Pauly D, true, masterful DJs are rocking parties and exciting crowds throughout the world. Thank goodness for DJ
Charlie Chan Soprano. Born Quentenas Charles Beason, Charlie Chan (he added the Soprano later) has been electrifying crowds since his days in middle school in University City, Mo. – a suburb of St. Louis. From the beginning, Chan was considered one of the best street and club DJs in the area. And when Radio One announced it was launching a hip-hop station in St. Louis, the first person executives reached out to was Chan, who was hired as an onair DJ and mix-show director. Chan went on to be named the Riverfront
SOPRANO 6 TURN TO
Polished and shining bright as before By Alysha ‘AP’ Price Google “Sparkle” and images of the 1976 film will appear – a classic film detailing the struggles of a young female singer. Much like the film, Sparkle the singer has been remade. The similarities between “Sparkle” the film and Sparkle the singer are quite ironic… being mentored just as the main character only her mentor was no love interest named Stix, he was more like a brother who we all know as R. Kelly. Transparent and ready to set the record straight, Sparkle isn’t
holding back. There is no secret that her longtime friend and mentor, R. Kelly, was charged with child pornography and Sparkle was called to testify against Kelly as the child in question is Sparkle’s niece. Although the trial caused division in her family and put her music career on hold the platinum-selling artist has overcome adversity and understands the only way to reach her fans is to air her dirty laundry. I spoke with the R&B diva about everything from her zodiac sign to business and personal relationship with singer/producer R. Kelly.
MORE
• Stages Theater Company celebrates 30 years
Sparkle
Photo courtesy of the artist
AP: Your musical foundation began in church, how influential is church in your musical career now? And what other things influence your love for music? Sparkle: (Church) is very influential because it is my foundation and my first love for music. The rush I get from a great hymn or praise and worship song is for me everything. Other influences; I just love a great story. Everybody loves something that they can relate to. AP: We fell in love with you and it felt like you vanished. Where have you been and why the long break?
• An overachiever making a difference
Sparkle: My hiatus was by default. I had to deal with an unfortunate set of circumstances. I always had/ have my family as a first priority. This was one of the biggest ordeals of my life, it had taken such a toll on me emotionally that people around me decided that this needed to be completely – or almost completely – out of my system before moving forward creatively doing anything. AP: Obviously you’re coming back with a vengeance. The “Dirty Laundry Remix” has everybody talking. Why were
SPARKLE TURN TO 6
• Snapshots
Page 6 • September 16 - September 22, 2013 • Aesthetically Speaking
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Stages Theatre Company celebrates 30 years
“Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse” & Rock the Block Begin anniversary season Stages Theatre Company (STC) begins its 30th anniversary season with “Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse” adapted by beloved local playwright Kevin Kling. The play opens Sept. 20 at the Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins. Written by Kevin Henkes, this story features Lilly, a young mouse that loves everything about school and the world around her. “My hope is for audiences to be caught up in this world of exuberance and delight in the adventure that is Lilly’s journey,” said director Jeannine Coulombe. Following the opening of “Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse” is the season kickoff event Rock the Block on Saturday, Sept. 21 from noon to 4 p.m.
Soprano From 5 Times (the entertainment bible for the region) Best DJ – he won the award four times – and eventually landed a gig opening for Run DMC. When the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame duo decided to reunite, Charlie Chan was on stage with them, spinning where the late Jam Master Jay once spun. “The night 2 Pac died, there was a DJ battle in Lawrence, Kan. and I drove down and won the battle and first prize was $500 and a chance to open for Run DMC a few weeks later,” said Chan, recalling how he became affiliated with the
Sparkle From 5 you attached to this song? How therapeutic was it to make this song? Sparkle: First off, I thought the song was really dope. Kudos to Kelly (Rowland) and The Dream. Second, the song felt like a Sparkle song. It sounds like a Robert-produced track that I was all too familiar with. As far as content, I thought it was fitting for me to remix it and put my spin on it. I find it therapeutic to talk things out in whatever form you can and this was my way of talking it out. AP: In Dirty Laundry you say, “Ya’ll don’t know the half of this industry.” What are you referring to? What are
at the Hopkins Center for the Arts. The free event features carnival games, face painting, bouncy houses, skateboard demonstrations by 3rd Lair Skatepark, glitter tattoos, cupcake decorating and a 1 p.m. performance of “Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse.” The 30th anniversary season at STC showcases nine productions for children and young adults, which includes three world premiere productions. In “The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs” audiences will decide the verdict and how the show ends. The last production on the season, “The Dandelion Seed” allows parents and children to participate in the performance with hands-on interaction geared for ages 18 months to 3-years-old.
Since 1984, STC has featured 194 productions, 50 off-site productions, 12 tours and more than 100 world premieres. “Each step along the way represents a cherished memory for someone who was there – youth actors, staff and parents. Yet, while it’s wonderful to look back and appreciate the positives of the past 30 years, we cannot stand still. We offer you a 30th anniversary season to remember,” said artistic director Sandy Boren-Barrett. “Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse” opens Sept. 20 and ends Oct. 20, with a run time of 60 minutes and is suitable for all ages. Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.stagestheatre. org or by calling the box office at (952) 979-1111, Tuesday through Saturday from noon
to 6 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for children (ages 5 to 17) and seniors (60 and older). Lap passes are available for free (ages 0 to 2) and $5 (ages 3 to 4). Stages Theatre Company was founded in 1984 and since then has grown to become one of the largest professional theatres for young audiences in the country. The company engages young artists with themes relevant to their lives and involves them in creating works featuring young people in meaningful roles. Through theatrical productions, workshops, conservatory classes and other outreach programs, Stages Theatre Company annually serves more than 130,000 young people and their families.
group. “I get back to St. Louis and Run DMC is there at a club where I was the regular DJ. They were coming off stage and I stopped Jay and said, ‘Stand right here.’ I went to the mic and announced to the people that I won the contest to open for them in Kansas and I did the routine I did to win the battle.” That routine was a scratch of Run DMC’s hit song, “Peter Piper,” which was the group’s homage to Jam Master Jay. “Jay loved it, so he said we’ll see you in a couple days. Then I rocked the Kansas show and after Jay said, ‘Look, if you want, you can go on tour with us and open and close the shows, but we can’t pay you,
but we’ll make sure you get the exposure.’ So I said bet,” recalled Chan. “I was on the road with them and Jay and I got real cool. He introduced me to Jermaine Dupri and told Jermaine he should hire me to DJ for Da Brat. Next thing you know, I’m on the road with her. I did that from 1997 until 1999.” Following his stint with Da Brat, Chan, who is a Core DJ and founded 24 Scientist One Way Production, DJed for fellow University City native, Nelly. He appears in Nelly’s video, “Air Force Ones.” Though Chan was no longer touring with Run DMC, he and Jam Master Jay remained close. Chan said he
was devastated when he got word of Jay’s murder in 2002. Following Jay’s death, Chan would routinely pay tribute to Jay with the routine he used to win the Kansas DJ battle. Then in 2004 when DMC decided to begin touring solo (DMC and Run had decided not to perform or record without Jay), he called on Chan to tour with him – a gig Chan maintains today. Last year when Run DMC reunited, Chan was on stage with the group, spinning the records once spun by Jam Master Jay. Chan and others, including Jay’s son, continue to perform with the group, which only performs select dates. The turntable wizard is coming to town on Saturday,
Sept. 21 for Thee Urbane Life’s Expressions Vol. II – Road Trip Edition at Darby’s, 315 N. 5th Ave., downtown Minneapolis. Expression is a graphic T-shirt party where partygoers wear various decorated shirts and dresses. The event begins at 9 p.m. and goes until 1 a.m. Admission is $10. The party is a 21 and up show presented by Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey, Big Frog Custom T-Shirts, Wilson’s Image Barber & Stylists and Realistic Manes Hair Boutique and Salon. “I can’t wait to get up there to Minneapolis,” said Chan. “It’s gonna be nothing but party rockin’ – none of that
jukebox playing. We’re gonna give you something from the 70s, 80s, 90s, and some new stuff, too. Man, I’m so lookin’ forward to this gig. It’s gonna be about skills and straight party rocking.”
the things aspiring singers or women in the industry should beware of? Sparkle: There’re so many layers to this industry. The makings of a great song or album are the easier part of this industry. After that, you have to massage and deal with the many personalities, egos and insecurities of the people you are working with and/or have to go through. For men, they have to portray a certain level of gangster or toughness, and it’s worse for women --it can come down to who you (are having sex with) or willing to (have sex with). Neutral parties are afraid or don’t wanna stand up to what or who they feel are giants, so when they know something isn’t right they’ll go hide face or sweep it under the
rug as if nothing ever happened. A shame, right? Women, we just need to stick together and be supportive of one another. Men already have an upper hand, (women) shouldn’t give ‘em much more by giving in to what I previously mentioned, belittling, or (defecating) on one another for a position. AP: When you came on the scene in 1998, R&B music was dominating the airways, but you created your own lane. What made you stand out then and what are you bringing to the game now? Sparkle: I have to give a bit of that credit to Robert as well, he created that “lane,” but it stemmed from my true personality – real and low tolerance for bull. I naturally stayed to myself, so he would write records that had a sexy, mystic and realness to them. I’m still going to bring you Sparkle, with more transparency to my current world. AP: You’ve mastered songs for the broken hearts of women
everywhere; what connects you with those slow “get your mess together” ballads? Sparkle: It’s my personality again. If I were just talking to you about a relationship that you shouldn’t be in anyway, I tell you “get your (stuff ) together and get over it.” Music isn’t any different for me. I’ll say to you in music what I’ll say to you in your living room – especially if we’re supposed to be girls and my female fan-base are “my girls.” AP: You’re a natural storyteller. How much of your upcoming project will detail your experiences over the past 10 years? How much do you plan to share about the trial or your personal life in general? Sparkle: The upcoming project will definitely bring you up to speed on my last 10 years. I don’t know exactly how much, but it’ll be in there, and not the things that have been wrongly publicized, there’s other (stuff ) that has yet to be touched. It may be in “concept,” but it’ll be
in there. AP: Sometimes highs become lows overnight; you sort of touch on that in “Dirty Laundry.” What kept you strong during the low times? Sparkle: My faith kept me strong, along with a few loved ones who held me down, for real for real. AP: If there is one misconception that you want to clear up, what would it be? What do you want people to know about Sparkle? Sparkle: Wow, just one? There’s a few. I think the one that sticks out most is that I’m mad with Robert about my career. Not at all. It’s hard to get people to understand that I knew Robert was a great producer, songwriter, etc. even when I asked for my release. I knew what I was leaving, but more importantly, why I was leaving. Robert was my family. Hopefully, you can grasp what I’m getting at. Imagine having an older
brother that’s gifted in some area that watched you until your parents got home from work. Remember it’s your brother, but he doesn’t want you in his room, around his friends, or going outside. You’ll eventually ask him – or your parents – if you could go to your friend’s house until the parents get in. That’s all I did. Furthermore, your reaction to his gift won’t be the same reaction that friends from school reaction would be. I acknowledged and appreciated his gift, but it was my brother’s. AP: Lastly, you’re a Taurus – so am I. How much of the stereotypical bull-headed, stubborn characteristics are true when it comes to your personality? Sparkle: I’m a sweetheart until you (screw) with me, then the horns surface. To connect with Sparkle and witness her path back to the top, follow her on Twitter @iSparklei.
Expressions Vol. II – Road Trip Edition Twin Cities’ Official Graphic Tanks & T-Shirt Party Feat. DJ Charlie Chan Soprano and DJ Dell Dilla of Mashwell Brothers. Saturday, Sept. 21 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. Darby’s 315 N. 5th Ave., downtown Minneapolis $10 21 and up
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Aesthetically Speaking • September 16 - September 22, 2013 • Page 7
An overachiever making a difference By Kam Williams Bridget O. Davis grew up in Harlem, in the Drew Hamilton Projects, with her four sisters. Some of her close friends took to the streets -- selling and using drugs, and becoming stick-up kids. Her mother, a counselor at a drug rehabilitation center, would often bring home recovering heroin addicts to show her daughters, first hand, the severely detrimental effects of narcotics abuse. So, Bridget found refuge in writing and praying in her secret place of the “Most High,” her bedroom closet. She also enjoyed playing hopscotch and jumping DoubleDutch. At the age of 13, Bridget tried her hand at writing, and won an essay contest which afforded her the opportunity to attend a writing camp in Russia. This trip would change Bridget’s life forever. Upon returning home, her love for writing grew exponentially. Now exposed to a life outside of Harlem, Bridget had something else to aspire to besides what she witnessed on the streets from her bedroom window. After losing her mother to cancer at the age of twenty, Davis vowed to pave the way to the pinnacle of success. Feeling helpless about being unable to save her mother’s life, Bridget went to college and became a Registered Nurse, specializing in Emergency Room, I.C.U. and Operating Room care. She made this choice specifically in order to help save the lives of many. Bridget also took it upon herself to found the Pocono Mountains Film Festival (PMFF). Currently in its 11th year, the PMFF has been graced with the presence of such Hollywood legends as Billy Dee Williams, Jack Palance, Joyce Anne Dewitt, Edie Adams, Robert Townsend, Joe Jackson, Cliff Robertson, Robert Vaughn and Fred Williamson. Bridget says, “My calling is to prepare a place for the creative to use their gifts of writing, acting, speaking and directing, and to engage in the higher process of healing at all levels of life’s deficiencies. And to bring hope to those in despair.” Kam Williams: Hi Bridget, thanks for the interview and congrats on your hosting the Pocono Film Festival for its 11th year. How did a sister from Harlem end up in the Pocono mountains? Bridget Davis: After witnessing all of the lives lost while growing up in Harlem to drugs and street violence, I was determined to make a positive difference in my community. After having two children with two men who did not share my same family values, I went
BD: Through my experience in watching Christian films, I have been able to broaden the demand to meet a greater need in our population to fulfill the creativity in that particular genre.
BD: When my time comes to leave this Earth, I don’t want to have any regrets. I can say, I did it, everything that I wanted to do, I accomplished my dreams. I want my epitaph to read “Job Well Done!”
KW: I also see that the festival has honored such icons as Billy Dee Williams, Roberta Flack, Robert Vaughn and Oscarwinner Cliff Robertson. Who is this year’s winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award? BD: We have a couple of people in mind that we are still reaching out to.
KW: How would you describe yourself? BD: I would describe myself as strong, sensitive, ethical, driven and as not a person to be handled.
KW: Parenting, nursing, writing, filmmaking, running a film festival, etcetera. Why do you try to juggle so many things?
KW: Is there any question no one ever asks you, that you wish someone would? BD: Why do you stay so busy helping other people fulfill their dreams? My answer: I
DAVIS TURN TO 8
Courtesy of Bridget Davis
Bridget O . Davis to college and studied science with the goal of becoming a Registered Nurse. As an R.N., I would become financially independent. I would not have to depend on any man to decide the outcome of our lives. KW: How were you able to make it out of Harlem when so many of your friends weren’t? BD: In life, either you get it or you don’t. You cannot allow anyone else to tell you what direction you should go. My take on life is that your life should be determined by your own choices. If you fail, it will reflect your lack of hard work. KW: Where did you, as a Registered Nurse, get the idea of starting your own film festival? BD: I wanted to see my second novel, “Henry’s Heart,” turned into a screenplay and independent film here in the Poconos. There was no place in the Pocono’s that had a venue to screen indie films. The Poconos being a beautiful place, a film festival was missing. KW: What were the biggest obstacles in getting it launched? BD: Being an AfricanAmerican female in a predominantly-white community, I received no financial support from the Arts Society or State representatives. As I brought Academy-Award winners to the Poconos the challenge became greater. I had to work double shifts in the Emergency Room to pay for the event. The shift of negativity in this environment came when the folks here saw that I was fair to all independent filmmakers.
KW: What was the initial reception of the Pocono community to the festival? BD: Negative, due to the fact that other people had tried to develop a film festival and they were not successful. Also, I made it clear that everyone would have an opportunity to showcase their work and win honestly regardless of color, political agenda or socio-economic status. Blacks, Christians, Muslims and Jews had the same opportunity to compete in the Indie Film category and win. KW: How many attendees did you have that first year? How many last year? BD: The first year we had over 300 attendees and last year we had over 2000. KW: Why should people come to the Poconos for a film festival? What else is there for them to enjoy besides the movies? BD: People should come to the PMFF to support filmmakers who are creative and would otherwise not have an opportunity to showcase their work to the professionals that we have partaking in this forum. Besides the movies, the PMFF has great networking opportunities for people trying to break into the film industry. We have high profile celebrities in attendance to spearhead workshops. We have an annual honorary awards ceremony in which we honor filmmakers for the “Best Full Feature,” “Best Documentary,” “Best Screenplay,” Best Film Short,” “Best Reality Show,” and “Best Christian Film” We have film critics to interview the
independent filmmakers and we have distributors present to shop. KW: Does the festival have a philosophy in terms of films it is looking for? BD: We look for films that motivate, educate and provide a deep sense of healing. We also feel that creativity is infinite and we are open to all ideas that could stimulate the human mind and assist with the conception of greater ideas and exchange. KW: I noticed that this year you are looking for submissions of Christian and Reality films. Why so?
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Snapshots
insightnews.com/aesthetics The voices (tuned or not) were out in full force to help celebrate KMOJ’s Ray Richardson’s birthday during his and Chantel SinGs Back in the Day Karaoke at Famous Dave’s in Uptown. Aesthetically Speaking photographers were in the place and captured a few moments from the evening.
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1) KMOJ’s Ray Richardson and Chantel SinGs emceeing the evening.
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2) Diasha Lewis belting out Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing.” 3) The killer Bs: Bianca “Cali” Lewis and Bianca Rhodes pose for a photo.
Davis From 7 realized that I never lived until I was able to help someone who could not repay me. The feeling is wonderful! KW: The Teri Emerson question: When was the last time you had a good laugh? BD: The last time that I had a good laugh was when I got dressed in the dark and arrived in the E.R. with two different color shoes on. KW: What is your guiltiest pleasure? BD: My guiltiest pleasure is when I am able to look at the people who made my life difficult and yearned for me to fail. I smile and look at them and say, “I am so proud of my accomplishments. I beat the statistics” I am an E.R. nurse, I authored 3 published novels, I founded and own the Pocono Mountains Film Festival, and I am a motivational speaker. I wrote and produced a documentary. Success is the greatest revenge! KW: The bookworm Troy Johnson question: What was the last book you read? BD: “Living and Dying in Brick City” by Dr. Sampson Davis. h t t p : / / w w w. a m a z o n .
com/exec/obidos/ ASIN/1400069947/ ref=nosim/thslfofire-20 KW: The music maven Heather Covington question: What was the last song you listened to? BD: “The Impossible Dream” by Luther Vandross. h t t p : / / w w w. a m a z o n . com/exec/obidos/ASIN/ B0000029HG/ref=nosim/ thslfofire-20 KW: What is your favorite dish to cook? BD: Macaroni and cheese. KW: The Sanaa Lathan question: What excites you? BD: When a patient comes into the E.R. and they are experiencing a life threatening illness, I save them and visit them the next day sitting up in bed smiling. Also, when I speak at women’s Prisons and I begin by telling them that it is only for the grace of God that I am not sitting where they are sitting. I share my personal experiences with them and share how I was able to rise above the immediate predicament and became successful through setting boundaries that I would not go outside of. Also, at the honorary Awards dinner we will call the winners up to receive their award and to see the expression of happiness on their faces is worth all of the
hard work planned. KW: The Mike Pittman question: What was your best career decision? BD: I have two best career decisions. The first one was becoming an E.R. nurse. This decision allowed me to bankroll my other career decision to create the Pocono Mountains Film Festival. KW: When you look in the mirror, what do you see? BD: I see a person that could change the course of many lives for the better if I had the financial means. I see the eyes of a person who loves life as long as she is able to assist with helping someone else survive. I see a caretaker of everyone regardless of race or economic status. I see a grown woman with the spirit and innocence of a little girl. I see success! KW: If you could have one wish instantly granted, what would that be for? BD: My one wish would be to destroy the Prison Industrial Complex System. Corporations should invest in education and colleges not slavery. That way, little boys and girls would have their daddies at home with them where they should be to help with childrearing to adulthood.
KW: The Jamie Foxx question: If you only had 24 hours to live, how would you spend the time? BD: I would spend my last 24 hours telling everyone not to waste time on issues that they cannot change. Don’t look back at yesterday’s mistakes. Instead, focus on making tomorrow better. KW: The Ling-Ju Yen question: What is your earliest childhood memory? BD: My earliest childhood memory was when I brought my dad to school in the second grade for “Show and Tell.” I was so proud of him in his mailman uniform. Many of my classmates’ fathers had taken off and mine was still around. KW: The Melissa Harris-Perry question: How did your first big heartbreak impact who you are as a person? BD: My first big heartbreak impact that decided who I was as a person was when the Pocono Record tried to destroy my credibility by printing that I was under investigation. I called a press conference and when the Assistant District Attorney arrived, I asked him in front of all of the media why he was investigating me. I informed him that “I save lives, I have never been arrested, and I would not come from Harlem
to the Poconos to engage in any criminal activity, when I knew the real Nicky Barnes, Frank Lucas and other drug dealers in Harlem.” I did not run from a lie because I knew that their objective was to discredit my character and fold a successful Film Festival that I had conceived. After handling that situation, I knew that I was stronger than I ever imagined and there was no turning back at that point.
KW: The Tavis Smiley question: How do you want to be remembered? BD: As a person that gave it her all, who never gave up, who loved people and cared for those who couldn’t care for themselves. And as a person who enjoyed making people happy and bringing out the best in everyone. I want to be remembered as a person who accomplished all of her dreams.
KW: The Judyth Piazza question: What key quality do you believe all successful people share? BD: Hard work and sacrifice without caring what others think of their endeavors.
KW: Thanks again for the time, Bridget, and best of luck with the festival. BD: Thank you, Kam.
KW: What advice do you have for anyone who wants to follow in your footsteps? BD: Remain humble at all cost and focus on your agenda. Take responsibility for your projects, work hard for what you believe in, and never take anything for granted. KW: Attorney Bernadette Beekman asks: What is your favorite charity? BD: My favorite charity is any charity that helps women who were abused get back on their feet and become financially independent through education.
The Pocono Mountains Film Festival begins October 18th with an opening Meet and Greet with all honorees and filmmakers. We are now accepting all films and Screenplays / This year’s winners will receive monetary gifts. Submission forms can be downloaded through our website at http://www. poconomountainsfilmfestival. com/ All questions regarding tickets and reservations (570) 619-4101 The deadline for film submissions is October 10, 2013 The festival is also looking for more distributors to assist with placing the best of the best independent films.
Black Storytellers Alliance welcomes YOU to the 22nd Annual Black Master Storytellers Festival coming September 26th – 28th
“SSignifyin’ & Testifyin”
All events are FREE, Family Friendly and open to the public! This activity is made possible in part by a grant provided by the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council, through an appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature from the Minnesota Arts and Culture heritage Fund with money from the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008. Additional funding received from Minneapolis Radiology Oncology, US Bank Foundation and the Minneapolis Community Action Agency.
Thursday, September 26th, 2013 7:00 – 9:00 PM: Opening Ceremonies & Storytelling Historic Capri Theater located at 2027 West Broadway, Minneapolis
Friday, September 27th, 2013 7:00 – 10:00 PM: The Liar’s Contest The Ames Elks Lodge located at 1614 Plymouth Avenue North, Minneapolis
Saturday, September 28th, 2013 7:00 – 10:00 PM: Grand Finale: Master Storytellers Concert Perpich Center for Arts Education located at 6125 Olson Memorial Highway, Golden Valley
Featured Storytellers
A big thank you to our sponsors A A a
MRO Minneapolis Radiology
For more information contact Nothando Zulu - Black Storytellers Alliance 612.529.5864 www.blackstorytellers.com or email at nzulu@blackstorytellers.com.
insightnews.com
Insight News • September 16 - September 22, 2013 • Page 9
Turn your passion into your dream job Motivational Moments
By Penny JonesRichardson Where’s your passion? Is it in the work that you do on a daily basis? Are you still trying to figure out how to turn
that passion into a job? Then you are not alone. There are so many people who go to work and daydream about one day doing what they love to do. They dream about turning that passion into a profitable business for themselves and their families. And then there are those who aren’t in it for the money. They just want to do what makes them happy or what would bring some happiness to someone else. A true passion is something that you would do even if you didn’t
get paid. Not everything is about monetary satisfaction. There is satisfaction in knowing that you have a peace of mind and you are doing what makes you happy. I once met a woman when I was a teenager who could sew without even having a pattern. She would make dresses for young girls for proms, homecomings, and even weddings sometimes. When I asked her why she charged so little to do so much work, she
simply said, “I have a passion for making beautiful dresses. I know that many of these girls would not be able to get a dress like the ones I make, so I make their dreams come true for less than what the stores would charge them.” This woman made dresses for most of the young girls in the neighborhood where I grew up. She was able to do exactly what she had a passion to do. Later I learned that she was fired from a store after working there for 25 years
because they found out she couldn’t stand for long periods of time any more. She worked in a store selling fine clothes. So think about it for a while. Stop and think about what you would do if you could be paid to work where your heart is. Think about how wonderful it would feel if you could work and get paid to do your true calling. This is possible and so many people know this to be true. But the bottom line is that you must have faith and believe that the
impossible is possible. Believe that you could turn your passion into your dream job and live the life you were meant to live. Believe in miracles; I know I do. And as always remember, stay focused, stay determined, and keep striving for greatness. Penny Jones-Richardson is a published author and life coach. She can be found at www.thequeensproject.com or contacted via email at penny@ thequeensproject.com.
Extend the harvest this season Take four inch cuttings from healthy herbs. Remove the lowest set of leaves and place the cut end in a well-drained potting mix. Once rooted, plant the herbs in individual containers or mixed with other herbs in a windowsill planter. Start the seeds in a flat, in individual pots or directly in a planter. Keep the rooting mix warm and moist until the seeds sprout. Move to a sunny location or under artificial lights as soon as the seedlings break through the soil. Wait until the seedlings develop two sets of leaves and then transplant them into their permanent planter if needed. So get busy planting and soon you will be enjoying the tasty benefits of fall and winter gardening.
By Gardening Expert Melinda Myers Didn’t get enough gardening in this season? Don’t worry there is still time to grow garden-fresh vegetables and herbs this fall and winter. Purchase transplants and seeds that will grow and flourish in the cooler fall and winter temperatures. Lettuce, spinach, Swiss chard, root vegetables, edible pansies and calendula as well as cole crops, like broccoli, are a few to consider. Those gardening in colder regions need to select short season crops like lettuce, spinach and radishes that will mature before extremely cold winter temperatures set in. Extend the fall garden season into winter with the help of floating row covers, coldframes and portable greenhouses. Many of the elevated garden systems now have built in cold frames or row cover attachments to make extending the season much easier. Try container and elevated gardens like the VegTrug™ (www.gardeners.com) to extend the growing season and increase your enjoyment. These contained gardens allow you to plant herbs, vegetables and flowers anywhere. Place a
“Courtesy of Gardener’s Supply.”
Elevated gardens allow gardeners to easily plant herbs, vegetables and flowers anywhere. few right outside the front door or on the balcony for fun and convenience. Plus, contained gardens can easily be moved to a sheltered location or covered and protected from frost. Or move your garden indoors.
Select vegetables and herbs that can tolerate the less-than-ideal indoor growing conditions. Greens, onions and root crops, like radishes and short carrots, will grow in a sunny window. Expand your selection with the
help of artificial lights. Basil, oregano, thyme, sage, parsley, chives and of course mint are a few favorite herbs to grow on your kitchen or other sunny windowsill. Increase your harvest with the help of artificial
lights or try an indoor tiered grow light stand to save on space. Take cuttings from healthy herbs growing in the garden, purchase new transplants or start herb and vegetable plants from seeds.
Gardening expert, TV/radio host, author & columnist Melinda Myers has more than 30 years of horticulture experience and has written over 20 gardening books, including Can’t Miss Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” DVD series and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment segments. Myers is also a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine. Myers’ web site, www.melindamyers.com, offers gardening videos and tips.
Our trees need your help! United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service You can feel the dryness beneath your feet walking on crunchy leaves that have dropped early. Our trees are thirsty and you can help! Please water all of your yard and boulevard trees, not just newly planted ones. Following are simple ways you can give those trees what they need: • Turn your hose on to a very light trickle and water for two hours at a time at each of the four corners of the tree. • Wrap a soaker hose around the base of the tree, at least a foot away from the trunk, and water for 6 to 8 hours at a low
Watering your tree flow rate. • If you do not have a hose that will reach the tree, you can use a 5 gallon bucket to slowly pour a total of 25 gallons of water around the base of the tree. • Wrap a gator bag around
Tree Trust
the tree and fill it up. They are easy to fill and relatively inexpensive. Most garden centers carry them. Fill it up once a week, this will give the tree about 20 gallons of water. Did You Know?
Our city trees work hard! They help save on heating and cooling costs; clean our water and air; can increase our property values; and make for a more pleasant place to live. According to the USDA Forest Service “Trees Pay Us Back” publication http://na.fs. fed.us/urban/treespayusback/ vol2/page7.html a twenty year old tree in the Midwest provides $60 in net annual benefits; if that trees lives to be 100 years old that’s $6,000 in net benefits over its’ lifetime! The mission of the Forest Service is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity our nations’ forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer
Page 10 • September 16 - September 22, 2013 • Insight News
Community Calendar • Classifieds Send Community Calendar information to us by email: info@ insightnews.com, by fax: 612.588.2031, by phone:( 612)588-1313 or by mail: 1815 Bryant Ave. N. Minneapolis, MN 55411. Free or low cost events preferred. EVENTS Target Free Thursday Nights – Sept. 19, 26 The Walker Art Center’s Target Free Thursday Nights in September feature a Chef-in-Residence event with Peter Ireland (Thursday, September 5); A Preview of the 2013-2014 Performing Arts Season (Thursday, September 5) and Music in the Garden featuring The Field of Medicine (Thursday, September 5). Target Free Thursday Nights in September also includes a Teen Art Lounge (Thursday, September 19), and Conversation: The Politics of Home with University of Minnesota history professor Tracey Deutsch (Thursday, September 19). Galleries open 5–9 pm. “The Illusionist: Shakespeare Reveals All” performance – Sept. 19,20 “The Illusionist: Shakespeare Reveals All” an original play by author, Jerry Wilson, will be presented by The Park Theater Company at the Hopkins Center for the Arts Studio Theatre, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins on September 13 (Fri); September 14 (Sat); September 19 (Thu) and September 20 (Fri), Curtain 7:00pm. Performed by Jerry Wilson, Rachel Ratkowski, and Symone Wilson, this original play tells the story of William Shakespeare, characterized as the world’s greatest playwright, and his greatest opponent Christopher Marlowe. Shakespeare reveals the personal secrets and intrigues that inspired his works. However, Christopher Marlowe does not consider Shakespeare a notable or competent dramaturgist. Intense combat ensues in this “war of words.” Come see who wins! Tickets: $15. Phone: 952-935-5762 Please visit website: www. theparktheater company.com or online: w w w. b r o w n p a p e r t i c k e t s . c o m / event/447118. Aging Eye Forum – Sept. 26 Eye specialists from Phillips Eye Institute will discuss age-related vision issues and options for treatment at the Aging Eye Forum, Thursday, September 26, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Phillips Eye Institute 2215 Park Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55404. Topics will include cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, intraocular lens implants, glaucoma, macular degeneration and laser vision correction surgery. Products and resources from the Minnesota Low Vision Store will be on display. To register, call (612) 775-8964 or email Elizabeth.albrecht2@ allina.com by Tuesday, September 24. The Aging Eye Forum is sponsored by the Kirby Puckett Education
insightnews.com
Phone: 612.588.1313
Fax: 612.588.2031
Email: info@insightnews.com
the website: www. theblackparentgroup. com or send an e-mail to info@ theblackparentgroup. com
Center of Phillips Eye Institute and Alcon. “With Privilege Comes Responsibility” Workshop – Sept. 26 The “With Privilege Comes Responsibility” Workshop to focus on ways to turn knowledge and understanding into action, and the role that people of privilege must play in the fight for racial justice will be held on Thursday, Sept. 26th, 2013—6:30 to 8:30 pm at the YWCA downtown facility (1130 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403). Price: $25 for YWCA members, $50 non YWCA members. Tickets may be purchased through the YWCA website (Workshops), or at the door. For more information please contact Jerad Green, jgreen@ywcampls.org or call Sara Jensen at 612-215-4133. Market to Mississippi Ride & Dine - Sept. 27 Join your neighbors in the West Broadway community for a FREE family-friendly bike ride from the West Broadway Farmers Market to the Mississippi River on Fri., Sept. 27 3:00pm - 7:00pm 900 West Broadway Avenue. After the ride, share a local foods meal at the market. The day’s events will include: Registration and free bike safety checks by Venture North Bike Shop; A bike ride led by Major Taylor Bicycling Club; Chef Robert demonstrating how to make simple and delicious dishes; A meal at the market consisting of tasty seasonal food from the market; and Shopping at the West Broadway Market. Nice Ride bicycles available for those 16+ with advance registration. Helmets required and available for free from Venture North Bike Shop. . Please RSVP for the event by going to www. westbroad waymarket.org. Black Genealogy Family History Group – Sept. 28 We invite all who are interested in family research to participate in this important discussion that will have great impact on Black Minnesotans of Southern Ancestral roots. This meeting will bring together various community members and genealogy groups to discuss the importance of organizing a chapter of the Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society, Inc. in Minnesota. This meeting will be held Saturday, September 28, 2013 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Sumner Library, 611 Van White Memorial Blvd., Minneapolis, MN 55411. Any questions contact: Jerry Blue (612) 543-6875. Third Annual Big Gay Race – Sept. 28 Last year, more than 7,000 people ran, jogged and walked to show their support for the freedom to marry. Join us this year on Saturday, September 28 at St. Anthony Main, 65 SE Main Street, Minneapolis, MN 55 to celebrate marriage equality and thank all the legislators who voted yes! This wasn’t the easiest thing to do for some of our state lawmakers – but in
PCLG Parent Support Group – Ongoing 2nd Mon. of each month Parent-led support group where parents can share the challenges of parenting a child with mental health concerns. Open to any parent or caregiver of a child with mental health concerns residing in or receiving services in Hennepin County. 6:30pm–8pm, 2nd Monday of each month at Sabes Jewish Community Center 4330 South Cedar Lake Road, St. Louis Park, MN. Contact 612.825.9615 hcpclg@ yahoo.com or visit website at www. hccmhc.com
Xcel Energy’s 2nd Annual Day of Caring As part of Xcel Energy’s 2013 Day of Caring, more than 500 Xcel Energy employees, family members, retirees and friends volunteered at more than a dozen nonprofit
the end, a bipartisan majority chose to follow their own consciences and do the right thing for all Minnesota families. Everyone is welcome at this fun and festive event! There’s no skill level required, and you can walk or run at your own pace. The most important thing is that you show up and participate. Check-in /Day of Race Registration 8:30 am - Race begins at 10:00 am. To register: mnunited. org/biggacerace. Follow the Big Gay Race on Twitter: @ BigGayRace. Health & Fitness Expo at Saint Paul RiverCentre Oct. 4–5 The Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon Health & Fitness Expo is being held on Friday Saturday, Oct. 4-5 at the Saint Paul RiverCentre – Exhibit Halls A & B. EXPO HOURS: Friday, Oct. 5 - Noon - 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6 - 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. This year’s expo will feature over 100 vendors including hands-on health and fitness exhibits, great bargains on running and fitness gear, free samples and massages and information on equipment, nutrition and other runner events. The expo is free and open to the public. Attendees who are signed up for a Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon Weekend event can pick up their race number and packet any time during the expo. The Twin Cities Financial Planning Day – Oct 5 Find answers to your money management questions at the Twin Cities Financial Planning Day with KSTP’s Joe Schmit Oct 5th, 2013 10am to 2 pm at Wilder Foundation, 451 Lexington Parkway North, Saint Paul, MN 55104. The Financial Planning Association of Minnesota (FPA) is giving the Twin Cities community a day of free financial advice. FPA is teaming up with the City of Saint Paul, the
Executive Administrative Assistant Brakins Consulting& Psychological Services, LLC & the African American Child Wellness Institute seek a highly motivated individual for a full-time position to work primarily with African American children, adolescents and adults in a community-based private practice clinic. The Executive Administrative Assistant (EAA) will be responsible for performing moderately complex to complex administrative tasks in support of the Executive/Clinic Director and the Mental Health Service Delivery Treatment team. Duties include extensive meeting scheduling, providing assistance to coordinate larger and complex meetings. Compiling information and preparing moderately complex documents, spreadsheets and reports using appropriate software; assisting, screening and/or selectively referring callers; handling complex and sensitive inquiries/calls from external/internal sources. The EAA is also responsible for confirming travel arrangements and managing payments for payroll and expense report reimbursement. The EAA will also provide support within areas of reporting for business documentation and team/individual goals, personnel changes and department record keeping processes. The successful candidate proactively tracks procedures and deadlines. The candidate may work closely with both internal and external customers to meet service needs. The EAA will also act as an onsite assistant for the Treatment team for miscellaneous duties such as equipment assistance, delivery support and supplies. Performing special projects as requested. The successful candidate must have a minimum of 2 to 4 years of college plus 2 years experience as an administrative assistant; possess strong written and verbal communication skills and have experience with interacting with ethnically diverse mental health consumers. Finally, Punctuality, Reliability and Dependability are a must. Unqualified applicants need not apply. Interested candidates should send a resume, interest letter and at least 3 references to: BraVada Garrett-Akinsanya, Ph.D., LP, Clinic Director Brakins Consulting& Psychological Services, LLC & The African American Child Wellness Institute 4050 Olson Memorial Hwy # 195 Golden Valley, MN 55422 (Phone) 763-522-0100 (Fax) 763-588-0100 Email: bravadaakinsanya@hotmail.com
Wilder Foundation, and Neighborhood House to bring this one-of-a-kind opportunity to people who have questions about money. The free event is open to the public and will include workshops, one-onone financial advising sessions, and a resource fair to learn more about programs and services that are available. Don’t miss this opportunity to get free, private advice on the financial issues that matter most to you from qualified professionals from FPA. For information visit www.Financial PlanningDays.org/ TwinCities or call (877) 861-7826. Anniversary Celebration – Oct. 17 M i n n e a p o l i s MADDADS 15 Year Anniversary Celebration will be held Thursday, October 17, 2013 at Heritage Park Senior Center. Come join in the celebration for: Nonalcoholic Cocktail hour from 5:30 to 6:00pm; Dinner and program at 6:00pm; Entertainment throughout the evening; Live and Silent Auction and Special Guest Speakers. Minneapolis MADDADS has been dedicated to addressing the problems of drugs, gangs and violence, restoring our communities and deterring youth and families from a life of violence and destruction since 1998. MADDADS programming succeeds by providing realistic, tangible hope through effective programming. For ticket information and to register please call Patricia Banks at (612) 232-1598. HCMC Exhibit – Now -Oct. 30 A new exhibit featured in the Hennepin Government Center, The World Within Our Walls: The history of departments inside HCMC, which highlights the vast array of skills, abilities, and concerns that are necessary to fulfill our patient care mission opens Sept. 3 and runs through Oct. 30, 2013. This exhibit contains historic and current documents, objects and photographs that tell the story of each hospital department’s contribution to our health care mission. For more information, visit our website at www.hennepin medicalhistory.org, or
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organizations in Minnesota. Xcel Energy’s employees have a long history of giving back to the communities it serve as they donated more than 20,000 hours in 2012. In
stop into the History Center on Tuesdays or Thursdays from 10am2pm located inside HCMC in BL 226 and 227, 701 Park Avenue, Minneapolis, or call (612) 873-6090. The Hennepin Gallery is free and open to the public Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., at the Hennepin County Government Center, A Level, 300. S. Sixth St., Minneapolis. Volunteers of America Foster Parent Information Meetings – Ongoing Foster Parent Information Meetings for interested skilled parents desiring to provide care for troubled youth in the Volunteers of America foster care program. Kids of all ages are in need of a stable home with dedicated parents. Information meetings are held at Volunteers of America Corporate Office every Friday from 10am-11:30am. To RSVP or for additional information on becoming a foster parent, contact Jolene Swan at (952) 945-4064, email ftpfostercare@voamn. org or online at voafostercare.org PROGRAMS & SERVICES RAKE IT Fall Yard Clean-Up - Seasonal: Oct. – Nov. Improve your health while helping a senior citizen in Minneapolis remain independent in their home! You choose the date and time to rake and clean up the yard. Perfect for individuals, groups, and families. Seasonal: October – November (depending upon the weather). This is a one-time unpaid fun, flexible activity on weekdays or weekends. Feel free to sign up multiple times! Exact location TBD in Minneapolis, depends upon where the senior citizen resides. Ongoing unpaid volunteer opportunities are also available. Please contact Jeanne the NIP Seniors Program, Volunteer Coordinator at srvolunteer@ neighborhood involve.org or call 612-746-8549 for more information. Our website is www. neighborhoodinvolve. org NOTE: Senior citizens who reside outside our service area should contact the Senior Linkage Line at 1-800-3332433 for information about services in their
neighborhood. HELPING SENIORS IN MINNEAPOLIS Seniors Program of Neighborhood Involvement Program assists elders aged 60 and over in North and Southwest Minneapolis with a variety of services so that they can remain safely in their home or apartment. Our services are specialized for each resident and we strive to provide as much as possible via the assistance of volunteers. To be eligible for seniors’ services, people must live within the following boundaries: south of 44th Avenue in North Minneapolis, north of West 36th Street in Southwest Minneapolis, 35W on the east, and France Avenue on the west. For information about NIP Senior Services email seniors@ neighborhoodinvolve. org or call 612374-3322. Our website is www. neighborhoodinvolve. org West African Dance & Drum Classes African Dance w/ Whitney $12 - All classes Drop-In. Every Saturday 1:00pm 2:30pm; Every Tuesday 7:00pm - 8:30pm. at Patrick’s Cabaret, 3010 Minnehaha Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55406. Foster Parent Information Meetings Find out about becoming a foster parent and changing a child’s life! Open information meetings are held every Friday from 10AM-11:30AM at 7625 Metro Boulevard Edina, MN 55439. Volunteers of America-Minnesota is looking for skilled parents to provide 6-9 months care for troubled youth in our new Multidimensional Treatment Foster Care Program (MTFC). We have kids, ages 12-17, who are in need of a stable home with dedicated parents who appreciate the difficulties of childhood! Volunteers of America provides quality foster parents with lots of friendly training, 24 hour support and a monthly stipend. If you would like more information contact Jolene Swan at 952-945-4064 or ftpfostercare@voamn. org, or visit us online at voafostercare.org!
the photo, Xcel Energy employees work in the Lyndale Park Gardens for the Minneapolis Parks & Recreation Department. (Photo credit: Xcel Energy)
Prep and skills development courses offered Minneapolis Public Schools-Adult Education is offering free GED, ELL, College Prep and skills development courses. Prepare for GED exams; Increase Math, Reading, and Writing skills; Develop Computer skills; Job training and specific certifications; Comfortable learning environment; and Day and evening classes available! For more information, please contact staff at: Minneapolis Public School Adult Education, 1250 W. Broadway Ave., Minneapolis, MN, 55411 or Abe.mpls.k12. mn.us or (612) 6681863. SUPER DUPER HANDYPERSON WANTED Help an elderly Minneapolis resident stay in their home. Assist with MINOR REPAIRS to make certain that their home is safe. Snowbirds, retirees, and trainees welcome (over the age of 18). You must have some experience to ensure that the work is done correctly (license not required). Choose your own schedule. Adult individuals, two-person teams, and small groups welcome. Exact location TBD in North or SW Minneapolis, depends upon where the senior citizen resides. One time opportunities are also available. Please contact Jeanne the NIP Seniors Program, Volunteer Coordinator at srvolunteer@ neighborhoodinvolve. org or call 612746-8549 for more information. Our website is www. neighborhoodinvolve. org Volunteer at Skyline Tower Conversation Group Reach out to your neighbors for an hour of coffee and conversation, Thursdays 5-6 pm! Share your stories and learn about other cultures while helping English language learners gain confidence in their language abilities. Our participants are mainly Vietnamese, Somali and Ethiopian residents of Skyline Tower at 1247 St Anthony Ave. For more information, contact lisa.vogl@ commonbond.org or (651)999-7528.
GED, ELL, College Volunteer English
RENTAL UNITS AVAILABLE
The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Housing Authority has rental units available in Cass County, MN. Please call 218-335-8280. Must meet certain qualifications.
West Falls Estates Rent based on 30% Of adjusted income Call Patricia Brown At 218-283-4967 TDD 800-627-3529
as an Teacher
with the Minnesota Literacy Council. Help adult refugees and immigrants learn the reading, writing and speaking skills needed to thrive in the U.S. Morning, afternoon or evening classes are available throughout the Twin Cities. The literacy council provides training and support. Interested? Contact volunteer@mnliteracy. org or call Allison at 651-251-9110. Or visit www.mnliteracy. org/volunteers/ opportunities/adults The Mu Rho Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc at the U of MN is searching for former members Currently, the sorority is collecting historical information to add to it’s archives. This includes information pertaining to former Eta Chapter members (1922-1964) and Mu Rho Chapter members (1979-Present).For more information please contact the Graduate Advisor, Peggye Mezile by email: ga@akadpo.org Hazelden Offers Free Educational Opportunity Concerned about someone’s alcohol or drug use? Addressing Concerns Together (ACT), Hazelden’s new outreach program, can help. Join us for a free event to learn more about addiction, intervention, assessment, and treatment. Hazelden’s St. Paul campus, 680 Stewart Ave., St. Paul. 2nd and 4th Mon. of each month at 6pm. This is an open event and there is no need to register. If you have questions, please contact Hazelden at 800-257-7800. Free Classes for Adults The Minnesota Literacy Council, a non-profit organization, has free classes for adults at our Lake Street Learning Center at 2700 East Lake Street, 2nd floor, above Denny’s. For classes and more info, visit: http://www. mnliteracy.org/ Free Internet Access Access internet, check email, look for housing, type up resumes, job search, practice typing, learn Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. M-F 11am-2pm and 5pm7pm. At Sabathani Community Center Room 324 310 E 38th St Mpls, MN 55409.
STAFF ATTORNEY Central Minnesota Legal Services seeks full-time attorney for its Minneapolis office. Fam. law with some work in govt benes. Licensed in MN pref’d. Postlaw school pov. law exper., fam. law or clinical exper. pref’d. Spanish or Somali language a plus. Salary $45,000+D.O.E. up to $49,436. Excellent benes. Resume with references and writing sample to Judy Hollie, CMLS, 430 First Ave. No., #359, Minneapolis, MN 55401. Appl. deadline: 10/11/13 or until filled. EOE.
APARTMENT OPENINGS Delton Manor is accepting applications for future 1, 2, & 3 Bedrm apartment openings. Delton Manor has 3 two-bedrm handicapped accessible units located in the building. Delton Manor promotes equal housing opportunities for all perspective residents regardless of race, color, creed, sex, sexual preference, religion, handicap, marital status, familial status, national origin or source of income. For applications and qualifications, contact NANCY at 218-759-2523. AN EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY.
Youth Business Club Develops Entrepreneurial Skills Kids learn with support and guidance from community. The Selby Avenue Youth Business Club is open to youth ages 9-16 who are interested in starting their own or learning more about business. The group meets the first and third Saturday of ever month from 9:30 am to noon at Golden Thyme Cafe on Selby and Milton. For more information, interested parties can visit http:// selbyareacdc.org/ Saybcindex.html , e-mail at SAYBC10@ gmail.com or contact at: 615-964-0710. Free Lead Paint Testing If you meet the following criteria, you may be eligible to receive new windows through a Hennepin County grant program: • Home built before 1978 • A child (5 or under) lives in or frequently visits your home • Live in Hennepin County • Meet certain income qualifications Sustainable Resources Center have partnered with the National Center for Healthy Housing to bring a national perspective to our efforts in Minnesota. SRC will be working with public, private and nonprofit organizations throughout the State to develop the plan. This is a great opportunity to encourage and support the creation of healthy homes for all! Call Sustainable Resources Center at 612.872.3281 to schedule a free home visit! Communication available in Spanish, Somali, and Hmong. http://www.src-mn.org/ Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity Mortgage Foreclosure Prevention Program (MFPP) MFPP provides free counseling for Minneapolis homeowners struggling to pay their mortgages (and referrals for clients outside of our service area). Located in the Minneapolis Urban League building at 2100 Plymouth Ave N, call 612.331.4090 and select option 3 to speak with a MFPP representative and set up an appointment. The Black Parent Group - Mondays Free weekly support group for parents of any race raising African American children. Mondays at 7–830pm at: Washington Tech Middle School 1495 Rice St. Saint Paul. Please visit
Seniors Program of Neighborhood Involvement Program If you are aged 60 live within the following boundaries: 44th Avenue in North Minneapolis, West 36th Street in South Minneapolis, 35W on the east, and France Avenue on the west in MPLS and need help with a variety of services email seniors@ neighborhoodinvolve. com or www. neighborhoodinvolve. org or call 612.374.3322 for more info. Need to read better? Call us for free classes or tutoring near your home. • Improve your reading or math • Get ready for your GED • Learn computer skills • Study English as a Second Language Minnesota Literacy Council’s Adult Literacy Hotline: 1.800.222.1990 w w w. t h e M L C . o r g / hotline An Individualized Internet Course for Senior Adults At last! Individualized instruction to help you find health information on the Internet. Free, ongoing classes and workshops held at these locations: Eastside Neighborhood Services 1700 2nd St. NE, Mpls. 55413 .612.787.4020 or The Seniors’ Place 1801 Central Ave. NE, MPLS. 55418 (612.788.9186. Greater Minneapolis Crisis Nursery Serves all of Hennepin County, offering a 24hour crisis hotline, crisis counseling, up to 72-hour overnight residential care, community referrals, parent education, parent support group, and a home visiting program. For more information or if you need services: .763.591.0100. Services are accessed voluntarily by families through the Crisis Hotline. Pillsbury Crisis Nursery - A program of Pillsbury United Communities Serves all of Hennepin County, offering a 24hour crisis hotline, crisis counseling, emergency day care, and limited 72-hour overnight home based care. For more information or if you need services: 612.302.3500. Services are accessed voluntarily by families through the Crisis Hotline. Homeless Intervention Services Are you a Minneapolis resident who needs help finding housing? Call the Minneapolis Urban League’s In-take Line at (612) 827-9299. For more information about the services, contact the Minneapolis Urban League, Sharon Sayles Belton Community Services Center, 411 38th Avenue S., Minneapolis, (612) 827-5673.
Executive Director Headwaters Foundation for Justice seeks experienced Executive Director. Responsibilities include fundraising, staff development, board relations, strategic partnerships and alliances. ED reports to 18-member board. The successful candidate will understand and be committed to community organizing as a model for social change. Will employ a participatory leadership approach and have the maturity, experience and skill to instill confidence and build a shared vision with stakeholders. The ideal candidate must possess exceptional written/ verbal skills, excellent strategic planning abilities, solid management skills, and the capacity to translate vision into results. Require at least 5 years progressive leadership experience, BA or equivalent experience. Excellent benefits, salary commensurate with experience, to apply email resume, cover letter and salary history to search@ dendros.com by September 16 – position open until filled. No phone calls. EOE.
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Insight News • September 16 - September 22, 2013 • Page 11
HEALTH Obese teenagers who lose weight at risk for developing eating disorders ROCHESTER, Minn. — Obese teenagers who lose weight are at risk of developing eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, Mayo Clinic researchers imply in a recent Pediatrics article. Eating disorders among these patients are also not being adequately detected because the weight loss is seen as positive by providers and family members. In the article, Mayo Clinic researchers argue that formerly overweight adolescents tend to have more medical complications from eating disorders and it takes longer to diagnose them than kids who are in a normal weight range. This is problematic because early intervention is the key to a good prognosis, says Leslie Sim, Ph.D., an eating disorders expert in the Mayo Clinic Children’s Center and lead author of the study. Although not widely known, individuals with a weight history in the overweight (BMI-for-age greater than or equal to the 85th percentile but less than the 95th percentile, as defined by CDC growth chart) or obese (BMIfor-age greater than or equal to the 95th percentile, as defined
Syria From 3 what I had expected; however, at the same time I was thanking my lucky stars that I didn’t marry into the family down the road who had seven adults and one child in a one bedroom apartment. I was also so grateful that I had a roof over my head and not a tent or, even worse for some Syrians, nothing at all. While in Turkey I was sitting on my balcony watching as the people turn on and off their lights and bang pans in a peaceful way I felt like to say, “Please let us live our lives.” I sat there listening to the ocean and feeling a bit of electricity as I was being a part of history – to see people stand up for something real. I watched a country stand up for and ask for religious and personal freedom; something I, as an American, could never begin to understand living without, as I have had it my whole life. I keep asking myself how many people must die or who must die before Syria can have peace again. Why do people have to die to bring peace? Isn’t it an oxymoron to bring peace through violence? Living in
Carter From 1 NACo’s Large Urban Counties Caucus, Healthy Counties Advisory Board and Arts and Culture Commission. Founded in 1935, NACo seeks to improve the public’s understanding of county government, assists counties in finding and sharing innovative solutions through education and research and provides value-added services to save counties and taxpayers money. NACo’s annual conference gathers county officials each year to address a wide range of issues such as health
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by the CDC growth chart) range, represent a substantial portion of adolescents presenting for eating disorder treatment, says Dr. Sim.
“Given research that suggests early intervention promotes best chance of recovery, it is imperative that these children
and adolescents’ eating disorder symptoms are identified and intervention is offered before the disease progresses,” says Dr. Sim.
This report analyzes two examples of eating disorders that developed in the process of obese adolescents’ efforts to
Turkey for most of this year was hard for my husband’s family as they missed their home. We have seen a lot of unrest in Turkey as well, but mostly peaceful protesting. Fast forward to August 2013. There has been one of the worst attacks in Syria ever in the capital of Damascus as a chemical weapon was used and took the lives of more than 1,400 people. I couldn’t tear my eyes off the television. I had come back to the United States to be with my family because I was homesick for the USA after not seeing it for two years. I remember hearing the news on Sept. 11, 2001, at the age of 15, of the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon – it seemed like the whole world stood still that day. The concern was on the individuals that were in the Twin Towers and Pentagon that day, whether or not they escaped, and how this would impact their families. As I sat in front of the television listening to the reports of the chemical attack in Damascus I felt as if my world was standing still. The feelings I felt on 9/11 were coming back again – only this time they were more personal. In my mind, it will always be the moment where “my
everything” stopped. Who should I call? Was my husband’s family safe? How far did the devastation reach? All I could do was cry and hope that it wasn’t my best friend’s dad who died, my husband’s grandparents, or my sister in law. I realized there was nothing I could do; I had never felt so hopeless or lost. As the reality and devastation hit me in that moment I did the only thing I knew how to do, I prayed. I said, “God I have nothing, I don’t know what to do, I give you all this and pray for peace.” Who are the bad guys here? Too many people have asked me that. Honestly, I don’t know. There were problems and bad things happening; one day someone shouted enough. As an American I treasure the freedoms we have and feel that everyone should have that kind of freedom in the world – a freedom to live, pray and love how they want as long as they are not hurting others. I was flying over the United States going to New Mexico while President Obama gave his speech about the six ships sitting by Syria. I looked around. Was I the only one crying on the plane? Was I the only one thinking about all the lives that are to be lost if we go to “save”
Syria? How is killing so many innocent lives “saving” anyone? Is there no way to bring peace peacefully? Is there no way to bring assistance from other countries without the further loss of life? I sit here wondering, who will stand up for the Syrian people? I will. I will stand up for them; I will stand up with them. I stand with them for a better future and life, but in a peaceful way. You can’t fight fire with fire. Syria, please remember the good times. Please unite and stop fighting. The words of Eminem’s song “Not Afraid” ring in my ears. “I’m not afraid to take a stand/Everybody come take my hand/We’ll walk though this world together/Through the storm whatever weather/Cold or warm/Just letting you know that
you’re not alone.” In my wildest dreams I could never imagine my words reaching the ears of President Obama or others in the Oval Office, but I can try to get my voice heard. If it were heard, I would put those men and women in the shoes of a Syrian grandmother, the one who stands there shaking as men burst into her house, through her doorway where she and her husband started their lives together, the doorway her children ran through when they were young, and her grandchildren now run through to see their beloved Nana, only now to be told at gun point to leave and never come back. My mind and my soul can’t take it anymore. If I could have my wish, it would be no more death, fear and torture. We all
care, support for vulnerable children, seniors and the disabled, transportation and water infrastructure, and court and jail systems. Major issues addressed this year included advancing comprehensive immigration reform, a new campaign to combat human trafficking and protecting the tax-exempt status of municipal bonds which enable state and local governments to more affordably build essential infrastructure projects, such as schools, hospitals and roads. Conference attendees also heard from experts and prominent national speakers throughout the four-day conference, including U.S. Secretary of Health and
Human Services Kathleen Sebellius. Earlier this year Carter participated on NACo’s Immigration Task Force to establish principles for comprehensive immigration reform now advancing through Congress. Also representing Ramsey County at the NACo Annual Conference were Ramsey County Commissioners Victoria Reinhardt and Jim McDonough, appointed to chair the Environment, Energy and Land Use Steering Committee and the Healthy Counties Initiative Advisory Board, respectively.
YOUR
reduce their weight. Both cases illustrate specific challenges in the identification of eating disorder behaviors in adolescents with this weight history and the corresponding delay such teenagers experience accessing appropriate treatment. At least 6 percent of adolescents suffer from eating disorders, and more than 55 percent of high school females and 30 percent of males report disordered eating symptoms including engaging in one or more maladaptive behaviors (fasting, diet pills, vomiting, laxatives, binge eating) to induce weight loss. Eating disorders are associated with high relapse rates and significant impairment to daily life, along with a host of medical side effects that can be life-threatening, says Dr. Sim. The article is published online September 9 in the journal Pediatrics. Dr. Sim’s co-authors include Mayo Clinic researchers Jocelyn Lebow, Ph.D., and Marcie Billings, M.D. - Mayo Clinic News Network
grieve the deaths and the losses of so much life. I feel though that grief and death need not warrant more violence. Please could we play the Syrian national anthem and ask the Syrians to unify and come together instead of brothers killing brothers? The United States, along with others, has such a power. I hope this power can be used for healing a broken country to give hope to its weary people. Mr. President, I’m asking you to try another option to bring peace. This is my story and these are my thoughts. My tiny little voice, if it touches one heart or changes one mind in a peaceful direction then I am truly happy. If it reaches the ears of the White House and helps people move towards a peaceful future, then I have accomplished what I wanted.
VOICE IS STILL BEING HEARD.
WE’VE
BEEN EXPECTING YOU.
At UCare, we know Boomers. So as you make your move to Medicare, consider the health plan that hits all the right notes. UCare for SeniorsSM lets you choose from plans that cover prescription drugs, travel, eyewear, dental, fitness programs like SilverSneakers® and more. There are no co-pays for primary care visits with most plans. And you’ll get to talk to a real person 24/7 when you call customer service. It’s just what you’d expect from health care that starts with you. Learn more about the benefits of UCare for Seniors in our new eGuide to Medicare at ucareplans.org/eguide. Or call (toll free) 1-877-523-1518 (TTY) 1-800-688-2534, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.
UCare Minnesota and UCare Health, Inc. are health plans with Medicare contracts. ©2013, UCare H2459 H4270_101512 CMS Accepted (10202012)
Page 12 • September 16 - September 22, 2013 • Insight News
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Five teams, each lead by professional fitness trainers competing for success in losing weight and getting fit!
IN IT TO WIN IT
Tyrone Minor, lead trainer and owner of The F.I.T. Lab, Co., is on a mission to transform the shape of Minnesota, both physically and mentally. The personal trainer, who has been conducting private lessons and group classes for the better part of 10 years, has gathered a group of stellar certified personal trainers to help him complete his mission.
The Insight-2-Health Fitness Challenge is a fun, yet challenging, fitness and lifestyle initiative designed to promote measurable and long-lasting health and fitness outcomes in program participants. The objective is to introduce lifestyle changes that are sustainable. Teams meet once per week with their assigned personal trainer and are required to workout with their teammates. Participants also receive one-on-one consultation with a registered dietician and coaching on food, weight gain/ loss with a mental health professional. Next week, we’ll introduce the teams and their trainers. Join challenge participants on their 10-week journey by checking these pages and following Insight News and The F.I.T. Lab, Co., on Facebook. Photo: Corey Collins/Moda Photography
Healthy Recipes “This recipe was given to me by my ex-husband Bruce. He is always trying new recipes. This one was a keeper.” - Deirdre A. Golden
RED BEANS AND RICE Recipe by Deirdre A. Golden Makes 8 servings • 1 pound dried red or pinto beans • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil • 1 cup chopped onion • ½ cup chopped green bell pepper
“This is a quick and easy recipe to share with your children or grandchildren. I got the recipe from my daughter and we prepared it together with her children and my grandchildren. It’s nutritious and it helps them like kale and beans by adding the fruit.” - Stella Whitney-West
FRUITED BLACK BEAN & KALE SALAD
Recipe by Stella Whitney-West Makes 4 to 6 servings • 3 cups fresh Kale, center rib removed, rolled, sliced • 1 cup diced mango • 1 cup diced fresh strawberries • 1 cup diced red, yellow or orange bell pepper • 1 jalapeno, seeded and diced • 6 green onion, thinly sliced • ¼ cup chopped cilantro • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained • ¼ cup lime juice • 1 tablespoon olive or vegetable oil Stir together all ingredients. Cover and refrigerate remaining salad.
Presented by NorthPoint Health & Wellness Center staff • 2 tablespoons minced garlic • 1 package (13 ounces) turkey sausage cut into ¼ inch slices • 1 tablespoon paprika • 1 tablespoon dried thyme leaves • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper • ½ teaspoon black pepper • 2 bay leaves • 2 quarts chicken stock • Cooked brown or white rice Soak dried beans according package directions. Drain beans; set aside. Place vegetable oil in large pot; heat pot over medium-high heat. Add onion, and bell pepper.
Cook, stirring frequently, until pepper is tender about 6 to 8 minutes. Add garlic and sausage. Cook 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Stir in drained beans, paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper and bay leaves. Stir in chicken stock. Cook until boiling; reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and simmer 1 hour and 30 minutes, stirring every 30 minutes. Uncover, increase heat slightly, cook 30 to 40 minutes until beans are tender and liquid slightly thickened. Remove bay leaves before serving. Serve with cooked brown or white rice