Insight News ::: 11.11.13

Singer, songwriter Janey Neal bares all MORE ON PAGE 5

November 11 - November 17, 2013

Betsy Hodges

Vol. 40 No. 46 • The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com

Abdi Warsame

Alondra Cano

Blong Yang

Chris Coleman

Coleman wins in St. Paul, Hodges presumptive Mayor of Minneapolis

Warsame, Yang, and Cano make City Council history

By Harry Colbert, Jr. Contributing Writer FRIDAY, NOV. 8 -- Nov. 5, 2013 will be remembered as a day of history and infamy in Minnesota elections – Minneapolis in particular.

For the first time in a

major election, voters took to the polls faced with a ranked choice voting ballot and an absurd number of candidates – 35 to be exact – vying to become Minneapolis’ next mayor.

The combination meant a 17-inch long ballot for voters and days of tabulations for city elections officials. At

Opportunity:

the time of press, while it is presumed that Betsy Hodges will be named the city’s mayor elect, the results were not yet official after a staggering 15 rounds of ballot counting and Hodges was about 10,000 votes shy of being named the victor even though her closest challenger, Mark Andrew

already conceded.

As a first choice, Hodges received more than 36 percent of the vote with Andrew garnering just under 25 percent of the vote. According to the Minneapolis City Clerk Casey Carl, tabulation will continue until either one candidate has 50 percent of the total vote or

the field has been narrowed to the top two vote getters, in which case there would be a special run-off election.

Following the madness with tabulation, the Minneapolis Charter Commission voted to raise the candidate filing fee from $20 to $500 – the fee that is in place in neighboring

St. Paul. Carl said while some may feel the fee would disenfranchise some from the political process, most voters would welcome the change.

“With 108 candidates total on the ballot and 35 for mayor, that’s a long ballot,” said Carl.

ELECTION TURN TO 12

FOX Searchlight

12 Years a Slave

Using our growing diversity as our biggest strength Gateway to excellence

By Scott Gray MUL President/CEO

Inside H. Jackson Brown’s Life’s Little Instruction Book, he says that “nothing is more expensive than a missed opportunity.”

These little words of wisdom can help us understand the compounding negative impact of poverty, discrimination, institutional bias, and lack of opportunity that exists among communities of color. We now understand that the “achievement gap,” “wealth gap,” “income gap,” and “housing gap” may stem from a foundational “opportunity gap.”

I was encouraged by several of our new leaders’ platforms as they professed a recognition and interest in closing the stark opportunity gaps that exist in Minneapolis. As Minneapolis becomes more diverse it is more important than ever to narrow these gaps and make Minneapolis a great city for all. Taking on this challenge is sometimes a lonely road, but I say to our political leaders, it

REACTIONS | 12 Years a Slave Email correspondence compiled by Al McFarlane, Editor-In- Chief

Commentary by Eric Mahmoud Last week I had the opportunity to attend the screening of the most brutal, gut wrenching, and emotionally overwhelming film I’ve ever seen in my 53 years.

MAHMOUD TURN TO 9

Laysha Ward, President Community Relations for Target, invited a small group

of community leaders to a prerelease screening of the film, 12 Years a Slave at Walker Art Center. The group included me, Scott Gray, President and CEO of Minneapolis Urban League, Louis King, CEO of Summit Academy OIC, Ella and Eric Mahmoud, founders and leaders of Harvest Prep and Best Academies in North

Minneapolis, and Sarah Bellamy, Associate Artistic Director of Penumbra Theatre in St. Paul.

Like most in the audience, we all sat silent, transfixed by the enigmatic contradictions laid bare by this powerful story and cinematic masterpiece.

FILM TURN TO 11

GRAY TURN TO 11

Health

Business

Community

Lowering blood pressure: There’s more to it than the pills

Speech: The retro communication tool that still works

Asian American and Pacific Islander community holds summit in Minneapolis

PAGE 4

PAGE 10

PAGE 3

Who won the fiscal showdown?

insightnews.com poll

Page 2 • November 11 - November 17, 2013 • Insight News

Abeni ni Hill Yoga is an important part of healthy living. ing.

According g to the Mayo Clinic, yoga helps maintain heart functions and lowers blood pressure through controlled breathing exercises ises and movement.

“You respond to stress more calmly,” said certified yoga instructor Jamie Minor.

Minor started practicing yoga about nine years ago.

“I belonged to a gym and had been doing weights. I did one (yoga) class at the gym and loved it right away,” said the instructor.

Minor said she had preconceived notions about yoga. “I assumed that it would be easy especially because I was pretty strong in the weight room,” said Minor. “It is physically challenging.”

Yoga is also known to be a

mind activity as well as a body activity.

“Yoga helps you to have more body awareness. It is important to pay attention to your body,” said Minor.

“The mind-body connection is extremely important. You retrain your brain and learn how to focus on one thing at a time.”

Minor said to id she h began b see the benefits of practicing yoga in all aspects of her life.

“You pay attention to what you put into your body as well,” said Minor. “You learn how to breathe through the challenge. You retrain your brain to learn how to focus on one thing at a time.”

Minor said people should not feel limited to one type of yoga. “With any type of exercise it is important to do different kinds,” said Minor.

“If I only lift weights, I will only be strong in lifting weights.”

insightnews.com

Minor feels people who haven’t tried yoga may have misconceptions about iit. She said some people pperceive yoga as religious but b that is the case, and not necessarily th said there are a variety of yoga. types of yoga Minor is certified in Mino teaching power yoga, also teach known as Vinyasa, and hot yoga, also known as Bikram.

The difference between power yoga and hot yoga is that hot yoga is taught in a room that is heated to about 105 degrees.

This type of yoga focuses on releasing toxins from the body through sweating.

“Hot yoga helps to cleanse my body and recover after lifting weights,” said the instructor.

Minor currently teaches at CorePower yoga and said she plans to start teaching yoga at the gym that she and her husband own, The F.I.T. Lab, which is located in St. Paul.

Jamie Minor

THE BENEFITS OF MEDITATION

By Mayo Clinic staff If stress has you anxious, tense and worried, consider trying meditation. Spending even a few minutes in meditation can restore your calm and inner peace.

Anyone can practice meditation. It’s simple and inexpensive, and it doesn’t require any special equipment.

And you can practice meditation wherever you are — whether you’re out for a walk, riding the bus, waiting at the doctor’s office or even in the middle of a difficult business meeting.

Understanding meditation Meditation has been practiced for thousands of years. Meditation originally was meant to help deepen understanding of the sacred and mystical forces of life. These days, meditation is commonly used for relaxation and stress reduction.

Meditation is considered a type of mind-body complementary medicine.

Meditation produces a deep state of relaxation and a tranquil mind. During meditation, you focus your attention and eliminate the stream of jumbled thoughts that may be crowding your mind and causing stress.

This process results in enhanced physical and emotional wellbeing.

Benefits of meditation Meditation can give you a sense of calm, peace and balance that benefits both your emotional well-being and your overall health. And these benefits don’t end when your meditation session ends. Meditation can help carry you more calmly through your day and can even improve certain medical conditions.

Meditation and emotional well-being

© PhotoXpress

When you meditate, you clear away the information overload that builds up every day and contributes to your stress.

The emotional benefits of meditation include: • Gaining a new perspective on stressful situations • Building skills to manage your stress • Increasing self-awareness • Focusing on the present • Reducing negative emotions Meditation and illness Meditation also might be useful if you have a medical condition, especially one that may be worsened by stress. While a

growing body of scientific research supports the health benefits of meditation, some researchers believe it’s not yet possible to draw conclusions about the possible benefits of meditation.

With that in mind, some research suggests that meditation may help such conditions as: • Allergies • Anxiety disorders • Asthma • Binge eating • Cancer • Depression • Fatigue • Heart disease

• • • •

High blood pressure Pain Sleep problems Substance abuse Be sure to talk to your health care provider about the pros and cons of using meditation if you have any of these conditions or other health problems. In some cases, meditation can worsen symptoms associated with certain mental health conditions. Meditation isn’t a replacement for traditional medical treatment. But it may be a useful addition to your other treatment.

Types of meditation

Meditation is an umbrella term for the many ways to a relaxed state of being. There are many types of meditation and relaxation techniques that have meditation components.

All share the same goal of achieving inner peace.

Ways to meditate can include: Guided meditation.

Sometimes called guided imagery or visualization, with this method of meditation you form mental images of places or situations you find relaxing.

You try to use as many senses as possible, such as smells, sights, sounds and textures. You may be led through this process by a guide or teacher.

Mantra meditation. In this type of meditation, you silently repeat a calming word, thought or phrase to prevent distracting thoughts.

Mindfulness meditation.

This type of meditation is based on being mindful, or having an increased awareness and acceptance of living in the present moment. You broaden your conscious awareness. You focus on what you experience during meditation, such as the flow of your breath. You can observe your thoughts and emotions but let them pass without judgment.

Qi gong. This practice generally combines meditation, relaxation, physical movement and breathing exercises to restore and maintain balance.

Qi gong (CHEE-gung) is part of traditional Chinese medicine.

Tai chi. This is a form of gentle Chinese martial arts. In tai chi (TIE-chee), you perform a self-paced series of postures or movements in a slow, graceful manner while practicing deep breathing.

Tr a n s c e n d e n t a l meditation. You use a mantra, such as a word, sound or phrase repeatedly silently, to narrow your conscious awareness and

eliminate all thoughts from your mind. You focus exclusively on your mantra to achieve a state of perfect stillness and consciousness.

Yoga. You perform a series of postures and controlled breathing exercises to promote a more flexible body and a calm mind. As you move through poses that require balance and concentration, you’re encouraged to focus less on your busy day and more on the moment.

Elements of meditation Different types of meditation may include different features to help you meditate. These may vary depending on whose guidance you follow or who’s teaching a class. Some of the most common features in meditation include: Focused attention.

Focusing your attention is generally one of the most important elements of meditation. Focusing your attention is what helps free your mind from the many distractions that cause stress and worry. You can focus your attention on such things as a specific object, an image, a mantra, or even your breathing.

Relaxed breathing. This technique involves deep, evenpaced breathing using the diaphragm muscle to expand your lungs. The purpose is to slow your breathing, take in more oxygen, and reduce the use of shoulder, neck and upper chest muscles while breathing so that you breathe more efficiently.

A quiet setting. If you’re a beginner, practicing meditation may be easier if you’re in a quiet spot with few distractions — no television, radios or cellphones. As you get more skilled at meditation, you may be able to do it anywhere,

MEDITATE TURN TO 3

insightnews.com

Insight News • November 11 - November 17, 2013 • Page 3

HEALTH Lowering blood pressure: There’s more to it than the pills

By Nicole Winbush MD High blood pressure (hypertension) is a condition where the pressure with which the blood is pumped through the arteries of the body at a higher pressure than normal. You may feel fine, but the high pressures when uncontrolled, can be slowly killing you. Chronic high blood pressure (also known as hypertension), increases the risk of developing several conditions like stroke, heart attack and heart failure (a condition where the heart does not pump normally).

In addition, hypertension is a leading cause for kidney failure and can lead to dialysis.

Despite all of the potential health problems associated with hypertension, there is hope. One can often lessen or prevent one’s need to use BP medication with everyday long term lifestyle changes.

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 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.

womensheart.org

tonetactics.com

Knowledge is power You can’t solve a problem if you don’t know it exists. Many people have hypertension but do not know it. So, start with getting your blood pressure checked and encouraging friends and family members to do the same.

A normal blood pressure is considered to be 120/80 or less and hypertension is diagnosed when one’s blood pressure is usually greater than 140/90.

It is estimated that over 1/3 of US adults have Hypertension.

These numbers are higher in the African American community with close to half of AfricanAmerican adults living with

hypertension.

Eat your minerals Eating a diet rich in minerals like Magnesium, Calcium, Zinc and Potassium, has been shown to lower blood pressure. How does one eat a diet rich in minerals?

Eating whole foods, especially lots of fresh vegetables is a start.

Avoid processed foods (think anything that comes in a box or bag and that is made in a factory) as they usually contain added salts and sugars. Most people have heard of the benefits of salt reduction for blood pressure control. However, sugars have also been shown to increase water retention which may in the

long term contribute to elevated blood pressures. Many of us eat a lot of wheat products and there is increasing awareness that many people are sensitive to these products and not able to digest them well. In addition, other grain products (like brown rice, quinoa, amaranth) are even richer sources of important vitamins and minerals than wheat products. Consider adding some new grains to your diet for variety and health benefits.

Adopt an eating plan (notice I did not say diet) Diets don’t work. Changing the way you eat permanently does. This is usually a gradual process and there are some specific eating strategies that provide guidance and have good evidence for blood pressure lowering. One plan is the DASH Diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension). In short, this plan is high in vegetables and fruits and low in sodium, total fat and saturated fat. There are abundant free resources available regarding the DASH plan on the internet.

Another eating plan which has been shown to lower

blood pressure (in addition to decreasing blood sugar and improving cholesterol) is the Mediterranean Diet. This diet is similar to the DASH diet but also puts an emphasis on healthy fats. Specifically, it encourages the use of olive oil and nuts.

Research has shown that regular use of olive oil in cooking is associated with improved blood pressure control. There are many resources available for the Mediterranean diet, including versions that adapt to different cultures. Additional information can be found at http://oldwayspt. org.

Some medications can worsen blood pressure There are some medications that can worsen blood pressure control and it is important to know this so that you can avoid or use them as little as possible. Many over-the-counter cold medicines or decongestants contain drugs (e.g. pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine) which can raise blood pressure. Long term use of some pain medications can be hard on the kidneys and increase the risk of more blood pressure

Stress and anxiety Stress can come from any event or thought that makes you feel frustrated, angry, or nervous.

Anxiety is a feeling of fear, unease, and worry. The source of these symptoms is not always known.

Many people have stress when they need to adapt or change.

Examples are: • Starting a new job or school • Moving to a new home • Getting married • Having a child • Breaking up with someone An injury or illness to you, a friend, or a loved one is a common cause of stress. Feelings of stress and anxiety are common in people who feel depressed and sad.

When these feelings happen often, a person may have an anxiety disorder. Other problems where stress may be present are:

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder • Panic disorder • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Some drugs may cause or worsen symptoms of stress.

These can include: • Some inhaler medicines used to treat asthma • Thyroid drugs • Some diet pills • Some cold remedies Caffeine, cocaine, alcohol, and tobacco products may also cause or make symptoms of stress or anxiety worse.

Stress is a normal feeling. In small doses, stress can help you get things done. Stress does not affect everyone the same way.

Many people feel stress symptoms in their body. You may be having pain in your abdomen,

headaches, and muscle tightness or pain.

When you are very stressed, you may notice: • A faster heart rate • Skipped heartbeats • Rapid breathing • Sweating • Trembling • Dizziness Other symptoms include: • Loose stools • Frequent need to pee • Dry mouth • Problems swallowing You may have a harder time focusing, feel tired most of the time, or lose your temper more often. Stress may also cause sexual problems. It can also cause problems with falling or staying asleep and nightmares.

What relieves stress is not the same for everyone. Making

certain lifestyle changes is the best start.

Start with eating a wellbalanced, healthy diet as well as getting enough sleep and exercise, Also, limit caffeine and alcohol intake and don’t use nicotine, cocaine, or other street drugs.

Finding healthy, fun ways to cope with stress helps most people. You can learn and practice ways to help you relax. Find out about yoga, tai chi, or meditation.

Take breaks from work. Make sure to balance fun activities with your job and family duties.

Schedule some leisure time every day. Spend time with people you enjoy, including your family.

Try learning to make things with your hands, playing an instrument, or listening to music.

Think about what might be giving you stress. Keep a diary

Meditate

gently return your focus to your breathing.

Scan your body. When using this technique, focus attention on different parts of your body.

Become aware of your body’s various sensations, whether that’s pain, tension, warmth or relaxation. Combine body scanning with breathing exercises and imagine breathing heat or relaxation into and out of different parts of your body.

Repeat a mantra. You can create your own mantra, whether it’s religious or secular. Examples of religious mantras include the Jesus Prayer in the Christian tradition, the holy name of God in Judaism, or the om mantra of Hinduism, Buddhism and other Eastern religions.

Walk and meditate.

Combining a walk with meditation is an efficient and healthy way to relax. You can use this technique anywhere you’re walking — in a tranquil forest, on a city sidewalk or at the mall. When you use this method, slow down the pace of walking so that you can focus on each movement of your legs or feet. Don’t focus on a particular destination. Concentrate on your legs and feet, repeating action words in your mind such as lifting, moving and placing as you lift each foot, move your leg forward and place your foot on the ground.

Engage in prayer. Prayer is the best known and most widely practiced example of meditation.

Spoken and written prayers are found in most faith traditions. You can pray using your own words or read prayers written by others.

Check the self-help or 12-steprecovery section of your local bookstore for examples. Talk with

From 2 especially in high-stress situations where you benefit the most from meditation, such as a traffic jam, a stressful work meeting or a long line at the grocery store.

A comfortable position. You can practice meditation whether you’re sitting, lying down, walking or in other positions or activities.

Just try to be comfortable so that you can get the most out of your meditation.

Everyday ways to practice meditation Don’t let the thought of meditating the “right” way add to your stress.

Sure, you can attend special meditation centers or group classes led by trained instructors. But you also can practice meditation easily on your own.

And you can make meditation as formal or informal as you like — whatever suits your lifestyle and situation. Some people build meditation into their daily routine.

For example, they may start and end each day with an hour of meditation. But all you really need is a few minutes of quality time for meditation.

Here are some ways you can practice meditation on your own, whenever you choose: Breathe deeply.

This technique is good for beginners because breathing is a natural function. Focus all attention on your breathing. Concentrate on feeling and listening as you inhale and exhale through your nostrils.

Breathe deeply and slowly.

When your attention wanders,

problems.

Stress Reduction Stress can have big impacts on our physical life. Finding ways to manage and lower your stress level is important to all areas of your health and can improve your blood pressure.

Stop Smoking This should come first on my list (but I did not want folks to stop reading the article if they are stuck here). Quitting smoking is a huge benefit to one’s health. In fact, the risk of developing a heart attack or stroke is higher in smokers than in non-smokers even with similar blood pressure elevations. It is a challenging addiction to break. But, it can be done. There are lots of resources out there to support you, many of them free. The Minnesota Quit Plan offers free online and telephone smoking cessation counseling 7 days a week at quitplan.com or 1-888-354PLAN or talk to your healthcare provider.

So in conclusion, there are many things that you can do to lower your blood pressure.

When combined, many of these strategies have been shown to be as effective as blood pressure medications. With time and consistent practice using these strategies, you may be able to prevent or reduce your need for blood pressure medication and gain other benefits too like more energy or weight loss. However, remember that implementing these changes can take time.

So be patient with yourself and if you are already taking blood pressure medications keep taking your medication and consulting your healthcare provider about monitoring your lifestyle changes.

of what is going on when you have these feelings.

Then, find someone you trust who will listen to you. Often just talking to a friend or loved one is all that you need to feel better.

Most areas also have support groups and hotlines that can help.

Reasons you may want to seek more help are: • You have feelings of panic, such as dizziness, rapid breathing, or a racing heartbeat.

• You are unable to work or function at home or at your job.

• You have fears that you cannot control.

• You are having memories of a traumatic event.

Do not stop taking any prescribed medicines without talking to your doctor.

(Source: AllinaHealth)

your rabbi, priest, pastor or other spiritual leader about resources.

Read and reflect. Many people report that they benefit from reading poems or sacred texts, and taking a few moments to quietly reflect on their meaning.

You also can listen to sacred music, spoken words or any music you find relaxing or inspiring. You may want to write your reflections in a journal or discuss them with a friend or spiritual leader.

Focus your love and gratitude. In this type of meditation, you focus your attention on a sacred object or being, weaving feelings of love and gratitude into your thoughts.

You can also close your eyes and use your imagination or gaze at representations of the object.

Building your meditation skills Don’t judge your meditation skills, which may only increase your stress. Meditation takes practice.

Keep in mind, for instance, that it’s common for your mind to wander during meditation, no matter how long you’ve been practicing meditation. If you’re meditating to calm your mind and your attention wanders, slowly return to the object, sensation or movement you’re focusing on.

Experiment, and you’ll likely find out what types of meditation work best for you and what you enjoy doing. Adapt meditation to your needs at the moment.

Remember, there’s no right way or wrong way to meditate. What matters is that meditation helps you with stress reduction and feeling better overall.

(Source: Mayo Clinic)

Page 4 • November 11 - November 17, 2013 • Insight News

insightnews.com

BUSINESS Speech: The retro communication tool that still works Plan Your Career

By Julie Desmond julie@insightnews.com People today communicate more than ever. There’s email, Twitter, Facebook, iChat and instagram, for starters. A person could spend a productive day on almost any job without actually talking to anyone. So, when someone spends thirty-five hours a week not talking, what happens during those five hours of real, oldfashioned verbal, interpersonal communication?

Likely, the same thing that happens when someone trained as a runner suddenly has to hop on a bike - he’s going to be a little wobbly. Once he gets used to the new environment, he can adapt. But there’s a good chance he might fall down before he gets there. Knowing the key aspects

© PhotoXpress

of effective bike riding (balance, keep two hands on the handlebars, look ahead so you know where you’re going) will help.

In the same way, someone who does not have to talk to people much during the day might

be pretty wobbly at first both on the phone and in person. Knowing the key aspects of effective verbal communication can help you ride away with the results you want from every out loud conversation.

What are those key aspects?

Balance, keep two hands on the handlebars, and look ahead so you know where you’re going.

Conversation is a balancing act. Talk. Listen. Talk. Listen.

My grandmother said God gave us two ears and one mouth for a

reason: talk, listen, listen, talk, listen, listen. The point is, don’t try to dominate a conversation.

Even if your point is important and correct, realize that the person you’re communicating with likely has a point, too, and it might be correct. Sometimes, asking questions is more effective than just babbling. Keep a good balance.

Conversation requires your attention. Keep two hands on the handlebars – keep your mind engaged in the conversation. With email, you have time to read and then respond. With real-time verbal conversation, you have to listen and think at the same time. This is especially difficult in our ADD culture. We want to jump around and come back to something later. In conversation, it’s important to stay focused on the conversation itself. If you lose track, if your mind wanders, try repeating what the other person just said, either in your mind or aloud, to keep yourself focused on the conversation.

Why talk, anyway? Before you get on the conversation

bike, check in on why you are having the conversation. Do you need information? Do you want to describe your products? Do you want someone to change a behavior? Or maybe you just want to say hello. Whatever your purpose, keep it in mind. Effective communicators put the agenda first. For example, “Hi, I’m calling to tell you about my products, but first, how’s your Grandpa doing after that surgery?” Because the person you are speaking with talks to people only as often as you do, they might appreciate knowing why you chose to call instead of just sending an email.

Even as it gets pushed aside, verbal communication has an important role in business today.

Remember the rules, and practice occasionally, so you’ll be up to speed when someone wants to hear you speak.

Julie Desmond is IT Recruiting Manager with George Konik Associates, Inc. Comments to jdesmond@georgekonik.com or CALL 952-641-3438.

African American corporate executives: We need you!

FUNdraising Good Times

By Mel and Pearl Shaw The expertise and connections of African American corporate executives can help chart a sustainable future for historically black colleges and universities.

Historically black colleges and universities are amongst the largest African American controlled businesses in America.

Many date back to the 19th century.

They have educated generations and built the black middle class.

They are major employers in communities across the country.

They also face well-documented challenges as they operate in an increasingly competitive educational marketplace.

These challenges can be addressed through a deep and meaningful partnership with African American corporate executives. These executives have increased corporate profits, managed turnarounds, introduced new products, increased employment, expanded operations, managed globalization, developed new technologies, and introduced social media to market and sell

their products. Their expertise and management skills – when combined with that of academic leaders and trustees – can creatively and strategically address highereducation challenges in areas such as recruitment, retention and graduation; finances; marketing; and fundraising including alumni giving, corporate, foundation, state and federal support.

African American corporate executives can serve as executive coaches and mentors to presidents and chancellors, shadowing these leaders and working with them to provide additional strategies, perspective and potential solutions gained from their corporate experience.

They can volunteer to serve as

trustees providing HBCUs with the same level of professionalism they would bring to a corporate board. They can serve as interimpresidents acting as change agents who help address unresolved structural challenges. They can serve on a corporate leadership team – joining with their peers – to provide management expertise and connections that can transform institutions. Such a team can surround and support the president and trustees helping to resolve challenges and take advantage of unleveraged opportunities.

Corporate executives can also provide funding and resources needed to stabilize our HBCUs. They can build endowments.

They can ensure the continued

competitiveness of HBCUs through timely capital investments in facilities, equipment and technology. Mutually beneficial strategic collaborations can support corporations who place a premium on attracting and retaining a diverse talent.

When the White House or a state governor needs top talent they often turn to the private sector, calling upon the patriotism of corporate executives, asking them to take a leave of absence to serve their fellow citizens.

Today we need African American executives to heed the call to service. HBCUs provide a special brand of higher education. They play a critical role in educating African American, Hispanic and

first generation students who seek an education that will allow them to fully participate in the global economy and build a strong future for themselves and their families.

Increased “business knowhow” and financial investment can help HBCUs continue to play a key role in addressing educational disparities. Reach out to these institutions, share your know-how, and help them grow to the next level. Volunteer now!

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.

VETERANS’ DAY

SALE 3O% TO 75% OFF STOREWIDE LAST DAY! ALL-DAY SPECIALS MON, NOV. 11

FREE ONLINE SHIPPING EVERY DAY + EXTRA 1O%-2O% OFF Free shipping with $99 purchase. Use promo code: VETDAY for extra savings; offer valid 11/6-11/11/2013.

Exclusions apply; see macys.com for details.

TAKE AN EXTRA 1O%-2O% OFF †

WITH YOUR MACY’S CARD OR PASS †EXCLUSIONS APPLY; SEE PASS. ELECTRICS VALID 11/6-11/11/2013

SAVINGS ON ALL SALE & CLEARANCE WOW! PASS EXTRA APPAREL! (EXCEPT SPECIALS & SUPER BUYS)

EXTRA 2O% OFF

SELECT SALE & CLEARANCE APPAREL FOR HIM, HER & KIDS EXTRA 15% OFF ALL SALE & CLEARANCE FINE & FASHION JEWELRY, WATCHES, COATS, SUITS, DRESSES, IMPULSE, INTIMATES; MEN’S SUIT SEPARATES & SPORTCOATS AND SELECT SHOES & SELECT HOME ITEMS EXTRA 1O% OFF ALL SALE & CLEARANCE ELECTRICS/ELECTRONICS Also excludes: Everyday Values (EDV), Doorbusters, Deals of the Day, furniture, mattresses, floor coverings, rugs, cosmetics/fragrances, athletic shoes for him, her & kids, men’s store electronics, gift cards, jewelry trunk shows, previous purchases, special orders, selected licensed depts., special purchases, services. Exclusions may differ at macys.com. Cannot be combined with any savings pass/coupon, extra discount or credit offer except opening a new Macy’s account. EXTRA SAVINGS % APPLIED TO REDUCED PRICES. TEXT “CPN” TO 62297 TO GET COUPONS, SALES ALERTS & MORE! Max 3 msgs/wk. Msg & data rates may apply. By texting CPN from my mobile number, I agree to receive marketing text messages generated by an automated dialer from Macy’s to this number. I understand that consent is not required to make a purchase. Text STOP to 62297 to cancel. Text HELP to 62297 for help. Terms & conditions at macys.com/mobilehelp Privacy policy at macys.com/privacypolicy

STOREWIDE VALID 11/6-11/11/2013

VETERANS’ DAY SALE PRICES IN EFFECT 11/6-11/11/2013. MERCHANDISE WILL BE ON SALE AT THESE & OTHER SALE PRICES THROUGH 1/4/14, EXCEPT AS NOTED. OPEN A MACY’S ACCOUNT FOR EXTRA 20% SAVINGS THE FIRST 2 DAYS, UP TO $100, WITH MORE REWARDS TO COME. Macy’s credit card is available subject to credit approval; new account savings valid the day your account is opened and the next day; excludes services, selected licensed departments, gift cards, restaurants, gourmet food & wine. The new account savings are limited to a total of $100; application must qualify for immediate approval to receive extra savings; employees not eligible.

Singer, songwriter Janey Neal bares all

By Harry Colbert, Jr. Contributing Writer There’s a certain amount of pain in Janey Neal’s songs.

But there’s also a certain amount of hope and love.

There’s something so real, so raw that as a listener, one is fully captured by Neal’s sultry, raspy voice. When listening to Neal pour out her emotions to melody, one can’t help but think she’s either talking directly to the

listener or speaking for the listener.

“I’m very emotional,” said Neal. “My music is very moody – up and down. I see things very black and white, it’s on or off.”

There’s a reason Neal’s music is so hot and cold.

Neal is clinically diagnosed with bipolar disorder – a condition associated with mood swings that range from the lows of depression to the highs of mania.

“A lot of people say they

can hear that in my music,” explained Neal. “People hit me up privately and ask about me being bipolar and they say ‘so am I’ or ‘so is my family member’ or friend. I think by me being so open about it, it’s bringing awareness to the condition.”

Being bipolar is a condition that Neal manages daily, but when it comes to her music and her singing, it’s purely a side story, as Neal is a gifted songwriter and accomplished singer. But

Neal wasn’t always a singer and songwriter. Neal realized her talents while hosting a weekly open mic as a spoken word artist.

“I started meeting people who were saying I should put music behind my poetry, so I started writing songs instead of poetry,” said Neal. “I didn’t know I could sing. I was always a writer, but I never tried to sing.”

NEAL TURN TO 6

Margeaux Davis steps forward to be heard

By Harry Colbert, Jr. Contributing Writer It’s hard to believe Margeaux Davis is just 27-years-old.

The jazzy singer/ songwriter/actress is wise beyond her years and it’s reflected in her music. Davis hasn’t fallen into the trap of singing about the trend of the day. She’s not caught up trying to sell sex to sell records. Davis isn’t about lust … she’s about love. She’s like titles of a couple of her songs. Davis is about “Feel Good Music” and she’s the “Essence Of Soul.”

If it seems like Davis, a graduate of North Community High School, is an old pro at

this performing thing, well … she is.

“I started singing when I was 4-years-old,” said Davis.

“My dad got me a keyboard at age 3 and I heard Michael Jackson’s rendition of ‘Rockin’ Robin’ and I just started wailing away.”

Davis’ music is nothing like what’s being played on contemporary radio. So how does one describe Margeaux Davis’ music?

“I’d say it’s Etta James meets J Dilla,” said Davis, who has appeared in productions of “Rent” and “Ragtime” and has performed the National Anthem at both Timberwolves and Lynx games. “I don’t think I sound like anyone else.”

MORE

• From slavery to the pulpit

Margeaux Davis

That’s pretty much a spot-on description. It’s only unfortunate that much of today’s force-fed radio won’t play Davis’ music because she doesn’t fit in their tiny boxes. Shame on those radio programmers, because they are depriving the rest of us of greatness.

Those who haven’t been deprived of Davis’ greatness have become immediate fans.

That list includes the late Ruth Brown and soul icon Gladys Knight.

“I was 17 and was in (Las) Vegas at a place called Bootleggers where they do this open mic and it’s all the big names who come out on Monday nights,” explained

• Kerry Washington, star of Scandal, is pregnant

the jazzy, neosoul artist. “I met Buffie Lucas who sang background for Gladys Knight and she introduced me (to Knight) and I got to sing for her at the open mic. Not anybody can get up there. The host heard me and said, ‘OK, yeah, you can sing; we’ll put you on.’”

Now the 2010 winner of the First Avenue award for best female R&B artist is ready to be “put on” by the rest of us. At a recent performance opening for Ashley DuBose, fresh off of DuBose’s debut on NBC’s “The Voice,” though clearly people came to celebrate and hear Dubose, Davis’ talent could

DAVIS TURN TO 7

• Opening this week for November 15

Page 6 • November 11 - November 17, 2013 • Aesthetically Speaking

insightnews.com/aesthetics

From slavery to the pulpit

By Gail Choice Special to the NNPA from Our Weekly If you have not seen “12 Years a Slave” then you are missing out on one of the most important films about slavery in recent history.

“12 Years a Slave” is based on the true story of a man’s fight for survival and freedom.

In pre-Civil War United States, Solomon Northup (Chiwetel Ejiofor), a free Black man from upstate New York, is abducted and sold into slavery. What follows in the movie from that point is the will of the spirit. Northrup determined he was not going to die a slave, and that he would return to his family.

For the first time in film history, I believe a Black man or woman can actually experience emotionally what it must have been like to wake up one morning and find you’re dressed in filthy rags chained to a wall like an

animal. Because Northup’s journey is based on his real life, and you know he lived to tell about it, it’s easier for you to watch the film.

Watching the film, you get a greater understanding of the evil of slavery, and why no one

really wants to talk about it.

One character that simply haunts me is Patsy (Lupita Nyong’o), the young female slave who caught the eye of her wicked master, and the disdain of his very jealous wife. Patsy’s life was hell;

she was born into slavery, and could pick more cotton than anyone in the field. Yet that didn’t save her from the torment of being a Black woman, who at the whim of her master or mistress could suffer bodily harm at a

moment’s notice.

“12 Years a Slave” was beautifully written, directed and the performances are flawless. I will be highly disappointed if this film does not receive a number of Oscar nominations, and wins.

Many escaped and former slaves attributed their freedom to their faith and trust in God. The message was clear, “Go Down Moses . . . Let My People Go.” Today God’s message is often harder to focus on, because we enjoy so many freedoms for which our ancestors fought and died.

For years, the church was at the forefront of our battles for civil liberties, but today it appears that those behind the pulpit are now front and center.

Take “Preachers of LA” for example. It is apparently the show people love to hate.

Oxygen Network claims that the ground-breaking docuseries has shattered records.

In fact, Oxygen delivered its best Wednesday primetime ever with adults ages 18-49 driven by the latest episode of “Preachers of L.A.” Last week’s episode was the network’s highest-rated of the series among all key demographics, delivering 1.2 million total viewers.

Kerry Washington, star of Scandal, is pregnant

By Blair Adams Special to the NNPA from the Afro-American Newspaper Rumors are flying around the entertainment industry that Kerry Washington, star of the hit ABC series “Scandal”, is

Kerry Washington

pregnant with her first child.

Sources told E News, US Weekly and People that they thought Washington was pregnant at the Emmys in September, when she wore an empire-waisted gown that “hid her tiny figure.”

“She’s about four months along,” a source told US Weekly.

This will be the first child for Washington and her husband, San Francisco 49ers cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha, who were wed in June after dating for one year.

But “Scandal” fans are wondering how Washington’s real-life pregnancy will affect her onscreen character, Olivia

Pope?

Washington could not be reached for comment and her reps have declined to comment on the star’s personal matters. In a recent interview with Glamour magazine, Washington said she preferred to stay silent about her personal life.

“I learned through experience that it doesn’t work for me,” she said. “I’ve had earlier times in my career when I did talk about it. But I couldn’t just turn around and say, ‘I only want to talk about the good stuff, but not the bad stuff.’ So I just thought, ‘Okay, no more.’”

Still under-represented in Hollywood, study shows

By Zenitha Prince Special to the NNPA from the Afro-American Newspaper Hollywood continues to be a bastion of homogeneity where people of color are underrepresented, according to a new study from the University of Southern California at Annenberg.

Professor Stacy L. Smith and her team analyzed 500 top U.S. box office films released in 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2012 for the racial and ethnic representation both behind the camera and in more than 20,000 speaking roles.

They found that in 2012, only 10.8 percent of speaking

Neal From 5

characters were Black, 4.2 percent were Hispanic, 5 percent were Asian, and 3.6 from other (or mixed race) ethnicities. Comparatively, over three-quarters of all speaking characters were White (76.3 percent).

Broken down per film, the analysis found that in nearly 40 percent of all movies released in 2012, Black characters comprise less than 5 percent of the speaking cast, while only 9 percent of movies met national demographic trends and had Black actors comprising 12 to 14.9 percent of the cast.

“There is still a noticeable lack of diversity across the landscape of popular films,” Smith, the principal investigator, said in a Neal, who now lives about an hour north of the Twin Cities, regularly appears at Arnellia’s in St. Paul on

statement. “This year is the 50th anniversary of the Civil Rights movement, and the Census shows that the population of the United States is more diverse than ever. Our film content,

however, depicts something very different.”

The scarcity of Black faces occurs not only on the screen, but also in the director’s chair, the report found. Among a total of 565 directors and 500

Thursdays as a featured performer.

For the listeners blessed to hear Neal belt out her latest single, “Wish You’d Let Me Love You,” what they hear are some of the most haunting, honest lyrics of a love that’s near, yet far at the same time.

If Rihanna got a hold of this song, it’d be a smash hit – not because Rihanna would sing it better, but solely because of her recognizable brand. Simply printing lyrics to the song doesn’t do it full justice, but even in print, the lyrics such as

I can honestly say, I’m addicted to your touch/I’m addicted to your love, and I’m drowning in this lust/and I know that you’re the one/and I just cant get enough/I don’t know what we are waiting on … I wish you’d let me love you, say enough to let people know that Neal’s songwriting is a cut above most.

“I see myself as a songwriter who likes to sing,” said Neal.

“I don’t want to be a singer my whole life. I’d rather be a songwriter.

The prolific songwriter

top-grossing films from 2007 to 2012, only 33 (5.8 percent) films had directors who were Black. Accounting for multiple films directed by the same person, only 22 unique Black directors helmed topgrossing films in the last five years, and only two of those directors are female.

“It is hard to believe that across all of these top directing jobs, there are only two qualified Black females.

Other talented Black female directors exist. Where are they?” Smith said.

The absence of directors of color influences the number of minority actors getting jobs, as minority directors are more likely to hire actors of color, the report found.

For example, among films

that had a Black director, 52.6 percent of that movie’s speaking characters were Black, compared to just 9.9 percent for films with nonBlack directors, the study found.

“Quite simply, when we see diversity behind the camera, we see a difference in the percentage of diverse characters on screen,” said Marc Choueiti, a co-author of the study. “The question is: are these directors encouraged to create more diverse stories that reflect the world? Or is the type of story they are entrusted with an exclusive story about their own racial or ethnic group?”

To view the report, visit annenberg.usc.edu or click here.

recently signed a record deal with City House Records, an independent label out of St. Cloud. For Neal, she said the marriage between her and City House just made sense.

“I had offers with other, more established, labels, but I wanted to be a part of building something special,” said Neal.

“I chose to go with them because they grind. They push and they work really hard, and that inspires me.”

Janey Neal’s music can be found on her website, www.janeyneal.com. Neal is working on a new project, which she plans on releasing early next year.

insightnews.com/aesthetics

Aesthetically Speaking • November 11 - November 17, 2013 • Page 7

Opening this week for November 15 BIG BUDGET FILMS

(Unrated) Political expose’ highlighting the present plight of Puerto Rico and simultaneously proposing solutions to alleviate the beleaguered island’s host of financial and social woes. (In Spanish with subtitles)

“The Best Man Holiday” (R for profanity, sexuality and brief nudity) Christmas-themed sequel, set 15 years after the original, finds college pals reuniting to reminisce, find romance and revive rivalries.

Ensemble includes Morris Chestnut, Nia Long, Terrence Howard, Sanaa Lathan and Taye Diggs.

“The Book Thief” (PG-13 for violence and mature themes) Adaptation of the Mark Zusak novel of the same name, set in Nazi, Germany and revolving around an abandoned 9 year-old girl (Sophie Nelisse) adopted by foster parents (Geoffrey Rush and Emily Watson) hiding a Jewish refugee (Ben Schnetzer) from the SS. With Kirsten Block, Nico Liersch and Sandra Nedeleff.

(In English and German with subtitles) “Charlie Countryman” (R for sexuality, nudity, drug use, pervasive profanity and brutal violence) Shia LaBeouf portrays the title character of this romantic comedy about a tourist traveling to Bucharest who falls in love with

“Lion Ark” (Unrated) Animal cruelty documentary uncovering Bolivia’s illegal trade in circus lions.

Featuring Bob Barker, Jorja Fox and David Kopp.

© Universal Pictures

“The Best Man Holiday” the wife (Evan Rachel Wood) of a ruthless Romanian mobster (Mads Mikkelsen). Narrated by John Hurt and featuring Rupert Grint, Melissa Leo and Vincent D’Onofrio. (In English and Romanian with subtitles)

INDEPENDENT & FOREIGN FILMS

“12-12-12” (R for sexuality, nudity, profanity and violence) Satanic possession horror flick about a demonic baby born on 12-12-12 (Double 6-6-6, get it?) who proceeds to murder everyone in his midst. With Sara Malakul Lane, Samantha Stewart and Jesus Guevara.

“Dear Mr. Watterson” (Unrated) Reverential retrospective chronicling the career of Calvin & Hobbes

comic strip creator Bill Watters. Includes commentary

by Seth Green, Berkeley Breathed and Bill Amend.

“Faust” (Unrated) Adaptation of Goethe’s classic play about a man (Johannes Zeiler) who comes to regret selling his soul to the devil (Anton Adassinsky) for boundless knowledge and worldly pleasures.

With Isolda Dychauk, George Friedrich

and Hanna Schygulla. (In German with subtitles) “Final: The Rapture” (PG13 for violence) Faith-based drama featuring a quartet of parallel tales revolving around Judgment Day. Starring Jah Shams, Mary Grace and Masashi Nagadoi.

(In English, Japanese and Spanish with subtitles) “The

Great

“Nebraska” (R for profanity) Road trip drama about a father (Bruce Dern) and son (Will Forte) who travel from Billings, Montana to Lincoln, Nebraska to claim the prize money in a million-dollar sweepstakes. With Stacy Keach, June Squibb and Bob Odenkirk.

“Sunlight Jr.” (Unrated) Matt Dillon and Naomi Watts co-star in this baby maybe drama about a Florida couple whose struggle to survive on minimum wage jobs is compounded by an unplanned pregnancy.

Support cast includes Norman Reedus, Tess Harper and Yvonne Gougelet.

Fallacy”

Book review: Shattered Mirrors: Broken in Plain Sight These doting elders’ sage advice is gratefully recounted in Shattered Mirrors: Broken in Plain Sight, an unblinking autobiography graphically describing the host of woes visited upon Karl as a kid.

What makes the collection of painful reflections both worthwhile and handy is how the author has highlighted his insightful grannies’ words of

By Kam Williams “I became convinced I needed to write this book after an experience with a friend…

He was struggling with many of the issues that I struggled with in my youth.

I tried to be a mentor and friend to him whenever I found the time. However, one day when he called, I couldn’t give him the time that I knew he so desperately needed.

Days later, I attempted to return the call, only to learn that he had killed himself.”

In that moment an intense feeling of responsibility overtook me… I wish I could have found that young man and helped him to find his strength… What he did not know was that at his very age and for the same reasons, I too had attempted suicide.

I am writing my experiences to help any other person who is struggling with life and who feels as if they have nowhere to turn.”

-- Excerpted from the Introduction (page 9) It’s easy, at first blush, to conclude that Karl Allen Griggs was dealt a horrible hand in life. After all, the bullet-ridden body of the father he never really knew was found in a dumpster while Karl was still young.

Later, his widowed mother failed to protect him when she remarried a pedophile preacher. Not only was Karl molested by his new stepdad, but he was also sexually

assaulted by the church’s assistant pastor.

And things weren’t any better for him in grade school in inner-city Detroit when he was routinely teased with epithets like “sissy” and “faggot.” In the 4th grade, he was raped in the boys’ bathroom by a bully a couple of years older. To add insult to injury, the administrator who came upon the crime scene compounded the violation by forcing Karl to fellate him on the spot instead of punishing

wisdom in bold print.

Thus, it is easy to locate their universally-themed proverbs, such as Gramma Velva’s admonition that, “True love will cherish and adore you, and you will know when you have it because they will put your happiness above your own.”

A priceless primer on picking up the pieces of a life

shattered birth.

practically

from

Shattered Mirrors: Broken in Plain Sight

by Karl Allen Griggs DM&V Publishing Paperback, $15.00 238 pages ISBN: 978-1-4675-7474-7

the perpetrator.

The neverending spiral into depravity culminated years later in Karl’s attempting suicide with sleeping pills when the principal of his high school threatened to divulge all of the above to his mother. Fortunately, he survived the overdose and went on to thrive, thanks in large part to the love and attention lavished on him by his biological grandmothers, Doris and Velva, and by his step-grandmother, Mary.

Davis From 5 not be denied.

Davis is currently working on her latest EP project, “Won’t Do It Again,” which is also the title of her current single.

While success hasn’t come as quickly as Davis would have liked, the singer/songwriter isn’t one bit deterred.

“I’m 27-years-young and I’m still pushing and I believe I will get there,” confidently said Davis.

For fans looking to hear Davis live, her next performance is set for Nov. 17 at 5 p.m. inside Coffman Memorial Union on the University of Minnesota campus. The performance is part of a student produced fashion show.

UNIVERSAL PICTURES PRESENTS A BLACKMALED/SEAN DANIEL COMPANY PRODUCTION A MALCOLM D. LEE FILM “THE BEST MAN HOLIDAY” MORRIS CHESTNUT TAYE DIGGS REGINA HALLPRODUCED TERRENCE HOWARD SANAA LATHAN NIABASEDLONG HAROLD PERRINEAU MUSIC ON CHARACTERS EXECUTIVE

BY STANLEY CLARKE PRODUCER PRESTON HOLMES CREATED BY MALCOLM D. LEE

BY SEAN DANIEL p.g.a. MALCOLM D. LEE p.g.a.

WRITTEN AND A UNIVERSAL PICTURE DIRECTED BY MALCOLM D. LEE SOUNDTRACK ON RCA RECORDS

© 2013 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS

LOCAL LISTINGS FOR THEATERS AND SHOWTIMES STARTS FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15 CHECK

Page 8 • November 11 - November 17, 2013 • Aesthetically Speaking

insightnews.com/aesthetics

get help p

compare

choose

Land of 10,000 reasons to get health insurance.

Welcome to MNsure. The new way to get help, compare and choose from a variety of health insurance companies to find the coverage that’s right for you.

MNsure will also show if you qualify for low-cost or free plans.

Visit MNsure.org today or call toll free 1-855-3-MNSURE (1-855-366-7873).

insightnews.com

Insight News • November 11 - November 17, 2013 • Page 9

Reset your emotional clock Man Talk

By Timothy Houston The clocks have been set back an hour again. This is also a good time to think about resetting your emotional clock.

What do you do when you get overwhelmed? How do you deal with the stress and the pressure that each day brings? Every day, a little more pressure is added to your emotional reservoir. Every day it gets closer to capacity.

Without some way to reset your emotional clock, you will become a time bomb waiting to explode. You must learn to reset your emotional clock and

refresh your spiritual reservoir.

To begin with, everything requires a reset. When I turn on my home computer in the morning, it goes through a series of bleeps and flashes which it does every time it starts up. It checks to make sure all of the drives and the cylinders are operating correctly. It also checks the main memory to make sure none of the data has been corrupted since it was shut down on the night before. The computer then makes the minor adjustments necessary to keep it running smoothly. It checks itself against itself. These daily adjustments and alignments keep the computer from crashing. These adjustments are an essential part of the well being and longevity of the computer.

Your emotional clock must be reset. You are more complex and complicated

than a computer. If your home computer needs to check itself daily, you also need to check

Many people skip this allimportant function for a few extra minutes sleep in the

Quiet time leads to selfexamination, and examination is necessary to remain healthy.

daily the computer that is in your brain. Daily self-evaluation and adjustments keep your life’s hard drive running smoothly.

morning. Important self-checks are not being performed. As a result of this, their cylinders are skipping, their main memory

is failing, and their system is headed for a crash. Quiet time leads to self-examination, and examination is necessary to remain healthy. We all must regularly check our mental and emotional condition.

Your spiritual clock must also be reset. Men and women need daily quiet time with God. The man often carries the weight of the world on his shoulders, and the woman often carriers the family calendar, schedule and details on hers. They are both complicated system that are comprised of a spirit, soul and body. This complexity is further complicated by the combination of their divine destiny, the things they have experienced in the past and the present consequences for their actions. Without God to sort through their emotional baggage, men and women will explode emotionally and

physically, and the whole world will suffer. When this happens, our community as a whole will be at risk.

The need to calm down and slow down is all around us. When you reset your internal clock, you reset your emotional clock as well. Inner peace produces outer peace.

You are able to face the world and the things in it without losing perspective on what is important. Our families benefit from this peace. This peace is like a river that flows from the heart of God into the heart of men and women.

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

For questions, comments or more information, go to www. tlhouston.com.

Imagine you had everything you wanted Motivational Moments

By Penny JonesRichardson For a moment, I want you to imagine what your life would be like if you had everything you ever wanted.

Imagine how your life would be if you woke up in

Mahmoud

From 1 12 Years a Slave is British director Steve McQueen’s adaptation of a memoir by the same name, written 160 years ago by Solomon Northup.

Northup was a freeman who lived in New York. He was tricked, drugged, kidnapped, taken to New Orleans, and made a slave.

Northup’s story is oneof-a-kind because it is told by the victim of the slave condition himself. This firstperson perspective makes the condition impossible to sanitize. One woman in the theatre could be heard weeping through half the movie. Whites and Blacks alike were in tears by the time the viewing was over.

Imagine being free one day and shackled the next.

When Northup tried to assert his rights as a free Black man, he was brutally beaten by his kidnappers. He was stripped of his name and identity. He had to hide his education, as revealing his ability to read and write could have led to his murder. One day Solomon Northup existed as a literate,

the morning and didn’t have a worry in the world. Everything you ever wanted was right there at your fingertips. Can you imagine this for a moment with me? Can you take a moment and totally imagine living the life you always wanted?

This is something that I like to have my clients do from time to time. Some find it difficult, but others love this exercise. It helps to visualize goals you set for yourself and what your life would look like if you had everything you wanted. It also opens you up to

seeing a whole different side of what life would be like to have everything you could ever want.

The other side of this exercise is to get one to think about not having to work on any goals. If you miraculously woke up with everything you ever wanted, then what would you be working to gain?

If you didn’t have to work on any goals how could you appreciate what you have?

Most people who achieve their goals have worked very hard to do so. They first had to

visualize themselves achieving the goals and then do the work to get there. Having everything given to you on a silver platter is probably great, but it is also great to see the outcome of your hard work.

So when you think about all the work you are putting into achieving your goals and the time that it may be taking to do so, also think about the satisfaction of doing it yourself. No one is going to drop anything out of the sky on your lap so you are the one who has to get out there and

make your dreams a reality.

You are the one who has to never give up on your ideas of being a success at whatever you set your mind to. You are the one who is in charge of your destiny and it is you who will be accountable for what happens in your life.

Now for a moment, I want you to imagine what your life would be like after you have achieved all of your goals and you have everything you could ever want. Through your hard work and determination, you have the desires of your heart

because you took control of your life and became exactly what you set out to do. All things are possible when you believe.

And as always remember, stay focused, stay determined and keep striving for greatness.

free man. The next he did not.

12 Years a Slave brings us into the world of the slave-making process and the sadistic treatment Black people had to endure. Women were savagely raped by their slave masters in their slave quarters while the male and female slaves looked on. In the most horrid and inhumane scene in the movie, a slave named Patsy, favored by her master for rape, leaves the plantation to find soap to wash her body because she said she couldn’t stand the smell of herself. She returns only to be tied to a post and whipped, and then—to further dehumanize her and all her fellow slaves— the slave master orders Northup to “whip the skin off her back”. Northup resists, but the master threatens to kill every slave present unless his command is carried out.

As an African American educator who has studied the historical, social, and psychological condition of African American people all of my adult life, I am particularly interested in how history has had an impact on our current condition as African American people. Some may think that it would be a stretch to link the institution of slavery to

the current condition of Black people in America; however, Sigmund Freud reminds us that “in the human mind the past is always present”.

It is easier for us to understand the debilitating psychological effects of war on a soldier even after the war is long over. We call this condition Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). But, as clinical psychologist Dr. Joy Degruy points out, there is also a condition known as Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome (PTSS). PTSS represents behaviors and beliefs that

are passed down through generations by Black people to their children based on the oppressive conditioning of the slave system. Emotions such as self-hatred that lead to high rates of Black-on-Black crime; the belief in Black intellectual inferiority – these are symptoms of PTSS. In a two-hour movie that covered the ordeal of one man’s traumatic experience over a 12-year period, it became clearer to me that the condition that many Black people continue to struggle with today is directly related

to the oppressive conditioning that many Blacks were subjected to under the slave system. From the inordinate rates of violence in the Black community to the lack of engagement of some Black parents in the education system; all of these issues are vestiges of the unbroken mental chains of the 400-year institution of slavery.

At the conclusion of the film it was Northup’s education, grit, and the conscious act of a stranger that happened to be white (who took a great risk himself) that finally

liberated Northup from his enslavement. I’m convinced that the only way we (all conscious adults regardless of ethnic background) will liberate a significant number of Black people from the shackles of poverty, crime, and underachievement is by providing Black children with a belief in their infinite possibilities, as well as a solid, world-class education.

It worked for Northup almost 200 years ago, and it can work for our children today.

Penny Jones-Richardson is a published author and life coach. She can be reached via her website at www. thequeensproject.com or email at penny@thequeensproject. com.

Page 10 • November 11 - November 17, 2013 • Insight News

insightnews.com

COMMUNITY Asian American and Pacific Islander community holds summit in Minneapolis In collaboration with Asian Media Access, Hawman and Company, Project Sweetie Pie, Strategies and University of Minnesota Urban Research and Outreach-Engagement Center (UROC), the Twin Cities Regional Center (TCRC) has held the Asian American and Pacific Islander Community Summit on Oct. 29.

The summit hosted seven professional workshops, with more than 60 participants. All presentations were interwoven with each other; largely focusing on transit oriented development, from how small businesses can grow with transit to health impacts.

Penny Vang opened up the event and welcomed participants introducing now City Councilman Elect Blong Yang, who detailed a lot the several of needs of north Minneapolis.

Having lived in the north Minneapolis area for the past 10 years, Yang voiced concerns about public safety, ethnic equality and home ownership.

The newly elected councilman stressed these concerns are not

easily taken care of, especially when they have been talked about for the past 30 years, yielding few results.

Following Yang’s speech, Peg Thomas, the executive director of TCRC shared a detailed report about the well being of Asian-American businesses in north Minneapolis.

A major topic of discussion was the federal EB-5 program.

Available since 1990, the EB-5 investment program is rigorously monitored by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, a division of Homeland Security. North Minneapolis has been designated as a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) where

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 MNsure Educational Forum at Sabathani – Nov. 13 The community is invited to an educational forum about MNsure, Minnesota’s central marketplace for affordable health insurance on Wed., Nov. 13, 2013, from 6:008:00 p.m. in Sabathani Community Center’s Auditorium, 310 E. 38th Street, Minneapolis.

Manny MunsonRegala, J.D., Assistant Minnesota Health Commissioner, will present information and respond to questions on how to access MNsure, shop for, and purchase health insurance plans.

MNsure is a new central marketplace where Minnesota individuals, families and small employers can get quality, affordable health insurance and access tax credits or assistance to help pay for coverage. MNsure will offer an easy-touse website where you can search and compare plans, a hotline you can call to talk with someone about your options, and places where you can sign up in your community. Enrollment begins October 2013 with plan coverage starting January 1, 2014.

For further information

Asian Media Access

Small business owners exchange ideas.

contact Pat Anderson at (612) 821-2315, (612)718-4523, or panderson@sabathani. org.

NOMMO, featuring Marilyn Nelson - Nov. 14 The 10th annual NOMMO African American Author Series, featuring host and moderator Alexs Pate will take place Thursday, November 14, 7:00 p.m. at the Hubert H. Humphrey Center, Cowles Auditorium, University of Minnesota, 301 19th Ave. S., Minneapolis.

Our first event features poet Marilyn Nelson on November 14, 2013.

Nelson will be reading from her book of poems, “Faster Than Light.”

These dynamic events feature the authors reading from their work and engaging in spirited dialogue with Pate about the state of the art of African American literature. This event is Free and open to the public.

Reservations Requested.

Images of Africa Film Series - Nov. 15-21 The Film Society of Minneapolis St. Paul presents Images of Africa, a film series highlighting the cinema of Africa. The series is part of the Film Society’s Diaspora Project, a program of films, dialogues and discussions illuminating elements of the human experience that exist across cultural boundaries and explore the experiences of Minnesota’s new international

communities. Images of Africa will present 30 narrative and documentary films from some 15 countries.

Several visiting filmmakers will be in attendance, as will experts in the field of African history and cinema, to add context for attendees. Opening and closing nights will include public receptions. The series runs from November 15 to November 21, 2013.

Screenings take place at the St. Anthony Main Theatre at 115 SE Main Street in Minneapolis and at the Mixed Blood Theater, 1501 S. 4th Street, Minneapolis. For information on tickets, visit www. mspfilmsociety.org.

H a b i t a t Homeownership Expo – Nov. 16 Twin Cities Habitat is building in North Minneapolis! Habitat invites you to join them on November 16th from 1pm-5pm at Shiloh Temple International Ministries (1201 West Broadway Avenue, Minneapolis) for a FREE information session to learn about Habitat’s 0% Interest Home Mortgage Program – you could own a home for what you are paying in rent!

Breakout sessions will be at 1pm, 2:30pm, and 4pm, and Habitat staff will be around in between sessions to answer any questions.

For additional information, go online at www.tchabitat.org or call 612-331-4090.

Marketing

Your

foreign investments can be made in sums of $500,000. Each investment must produce 10 full-time jobs that are sustained for over a two-year period. The investing family is then granted permanent residency status.

Investors pay all additional fees associated with their verification and immigration process.

Phone: 612.588.1313

EB-5 investments are atrisk investments and the return of each investment is not guaranteed. Additionally, if the jobs are not sustained for two years, investors may lose their money or face deportation.

“The EB-5 program has been established since the 1990s and is still being used by many regional centers nationally to help the growth and expansion of many businesses,” said Thomas. “But Twin Cities Regional Center is different, it is a gem amongst the other regional centers nationally because it is a non-profit with a strong mission drive to help the distressed neighborhoods.”

Minnesota Rep. Joe Mullery (59A) who was present at the summit voiced his concerns about EB-5. One of his biggest concerns centered on how the program was not being used as an economic development strategy.

Ange Hwang, executive director of Asian Media Access said TCRC is a win-win strategy for both the neighborhood and the investors, but she wants to take the model a step higher by

Fax: 612.588.2031

Email: info@insightnews.com

“Goal Setting/Where are you going?” is scheduled to be held on November 21st, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Women Achieving New Directions, 2143 Lowry Ave. N., Minneapolis, MN 55411.

On-site child care and a light meal provided.

For more information call Pat in Minneapolis at (612) 752-8554. For further information contact Candice RogersSiers at (612) 752-8495.

Karamu Forum #6 - Nov. 11 Freedom’s Journey: from Emancipation Proclamation to Contemporary Civil Rights Issues. Guest Moderator is speaker, writer, and change agent, Dr. Artika R. Tyner. At the University of St. Thomas School of Law, Dr. Tyner serves as Clinical Law Faculty and Director of Diversity. She teaches in the Community Justice Project and award-winning civil rights clinic. The work of the Community Justice Project focuses on training law students to serve as social engineers who create new inroads to justice and freedom. Dr. Tyner will co-present with her students on Monday, November 11th, 2013 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm at St. Peter Claver Church located at 375 Oxford Street, St. Paul, MN 55104. The host is Father Kevin McDonough.

An Evening with Said Salah Ahmed: Somali Storytelling (tpt’s MN Original) Nov. 14 Spend the evening with Somali educator, poet, storyteller, playwright, and filmmaker Said Salah Ahmed on Thursday, November 14, 2013, 7-9 p.m. at the Minnesota Humanities Center, 987 Ivy Avenue East St. Paul, MN 55106. Come gather at the “Ardaa” before the evening star sets as Ahmed illustrates the role of storytelling in non-formal and formal classroom settings, as well as explains how to teach through the art of oral literature and performance. The cost is $10 per person, includes light snack and materials. 2 clock hours available upon request. For more information or to register please visit: http://www.minnesotahumanities.org/ mno or call (651) 774-0105.

Business Seminar – Nov. 21 SCORE “Mentors to America’s Small Business” will hold a seminar “Marketing Your Business” on Thursday, November 21st. from 9:00 a.m.

– 1:00 p.m. at Wilder Center, 451 Lexington Parkway North, St. Paul.

The seminar covers identifying your target market, pricing of products and services, making the sale and customer relations

management. Fee info and to register go to the SCORE website www. stpaul.score.org or call 651-261-1429.

Career Workshop Nov. 21 Women Achieving

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.

Administrative Assistant The MN House of Representatives Chief Clerk’s Office has a full-time Administrative Assistant position available.

The complete job posting can be found at: www. house.mn/jobs or call 651-297-8200 for a faxed or mailed copy. Cover letter and resume must be received by Wednesday, November 13, 2013.

EEO/AA EMPLOYER

SCHOOL BUS DRIVER

Saint Paul Public Schools seeks a School Bus Driver to join its team! Candidates must have a High school diploma or G.E.D. and two years of experience as a School Bus Driver, which includes experience working with special needs students. Must have a valid Class A or B commercial driver’s license (CDL) with a current unlimited school bus driver’s endorsement and a current passenger endorsement.

For more details and to apply, visit hr.spps.org/Search_Jobs_and_Apply.htm. Saint Paul Public Schools is an equal opportunity employer and supports an inclusive workplace environment.

Townhomes

Available Fieldcrest in Moorhead, MN Rent based on 30% of income

2 & 3 bdroms open MetroPlains Management

701-232-1887 www.metroplainsmanagement.com

New Directions offers individual counseling and on-going career development workshops.

Career counselors will help you find ways to increase your income, get a promotion or develop a new career path. . A workshop on

engaging the investors into the business projects.

“We don’t want to leave them in the dark for those two years,” said Hwang. “I want them to see where their money is going. I want them to see that their money is being used for things that really benefit the community. I also want them to see that there is a community ready to accept them as they both work together to make this work.”

During much of the summit, participants expressed their visions in seeing a much more positive image of north Minneapolis.

Presenters acknowledged the importance of integration of the neighborhood culture into the economic development process.

The summit was sponsored by the Great Streets Neighborhood Business District Program. For more information about the summit, the presenters, or the presentation materials, visit the TCRC website at www. tcrc-mn.org, or call (612) 3767715.

9th Annual Camden Music School Holiday Sing-Along - Dec. 7 9th Annual Camden Music School Holiday Sing-Along plus “A Recipe for FUN” Craft and Bake Sale A simply delightful, neighborly way to celebrate the season.

4pm, Saturday, December 7 CMS/ Camden: Luther Memorial, 3751 Sheridan Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN. 55412. FREE. Proceeds from the craft and bake sale go to the CMS Scholarship Fund, a sponsored project of Our Neighborhood Works, w w w. o u r n e i g h b o r hoodworks.com.

For more information: 612618-0219 or www. camdenmusicschool. com.

Register at any time for lessons at Camden Music School Ongoing Looking for a place to play? You can enroll in lessons at CMS at any time! Tuition is prorated to the number of lessons you take.

All ages, abilities and experience levels are welcome. The CMS Fall Term runs through Saturday, January 18.

Recitals will be held on January 25. Spring Term starts the week of February 3. CMS offers vocal and instrumental lessons, Musikgarten early childhood music classes (newborn to age 8), hand drumming,

community choir, music theory and more!

Family rates and discounts are available. Scholarship applications for the spring term will be available Monday, December 2. Classes in Camden: Luther Memorial Lutheran Church, 3751 Sheridan Ave. N., 55412.

CMS in Northeast Minneapolis: Grace Center for Community Life (formerly Holland School), 1500 6th St. NE, 55413. More information: 612618-0219 or www. camdenmusicschool. com.

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 Reduce Gym Membership Fees Save money, get in shape, and help your neighbor!

Develop strong muscles by shoveling the snow off a grateful senior citizen’s walkways and driveway. Adopt a yard until the weather warms.

Resident will provide the thankful smile.

Perfect opportunity for apartment/condo dweller that yearns to

be outside. Work with a partner and you can take turns shoveling.

Family teams and small groups welcome; youth must be age 7 or older and supervised by an adult. Exact location TBD in Minneapolis, depends upon where the senior citizen resides. We offer unpaid volunteer opportunities year-round.

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 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 onetime 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@ neighborhoodinvolve. org or call 612746-8549 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.

Assumed Name

Assumed Name

1. State the exact assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted: ObO Autos

1. State the exact assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted: Music To My Ear Music Services

2. State the address of the principal place of business: 8739 N. Maplebrook Circle, Brooklyn Park, MN 55445

2. State the address of the principal place of business: 3300 Bass Lake Road Suite 120B, Brooklyn Center, MN 55430

3. List the name and complete street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name OR if an entity, provide the legal corporate, LLC, or Limited Partnership name and registered office address. Attach additional sheet(s) if necessary: Roblee Perkins, 8739 N. Maplebrook Circle, Brooklyn Park, MN 55445

3. List the name and complete street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name OR if an entity, provide the legal corporate, LLC, or Limited Partnership name and registered office address. Attach additional sheet(s) if necessary: Carla Bland, 5214 N. 4th Street, Minneapolis, MN 55430

4. I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Minnesota Statues section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.

4. I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Minnesota Statues section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.

Signed by: Roblee Perkins, CEO Date Filed: 10/16/2013

Signed by: Carla Bland/Owner Date Filed: 10/22/2013

Insight News 11/04/2013, 11/11/2013

Insight News 11/04/2013, 11/11/2013

insightnews.com

Insight News • November 11 - November 17, 2013 • Page 11

COMMENTARY The power of our shared vision and partnership Opinion

By Ben Jealous, President and CEO, NAACP Two decades ago, as a young organizer in Mississippi, I learned that there are only two types of temporal power: organized people and organized money. I also learned that in a democracy, the people can win every time - but only if we are organized.

Today, when I reflect back on my half-decade at the helm of the NAACP, I am deeply proud of what we have accomplished together as we organized our communities. We have abolished the death policy in five states, defended voting rights from coast to coast, freed multiple

wrongfully incarcerated people, and shrunk prison systems.

We have increased funding for health care, defended the rights of workers, held wayward mortgage companies accountable and curbed the school-to prison-pipeline in multiple states. We have built powerful bridges to help faith communities join the struggle for marriage equality and against the scourge of HIV, and come to the aid of our allies in the struggles for environmental protection and immigrants rights. Through all this, we have dramatically expanded the ranks of those who would assist us in combating racial discrimination in the streets and at the ballot box.

Five years ago, the NAACP was what it had been for most of the past half century; the biggest civil rights organization in the streets. Today, we are that and also the biggest online, on mobile and at the ballot box as well.

As organizers, we understand that while the future will come no matter what, we have the power to make the future come faster.

All of this success is testament to the power of our shared vision and partnership to come together for a stronger, more inclusive America.

Things could have gone a different way. Since 2010, far-right wing extremists have repeatedly and simultaneously attacked the most basic civil rights protections of most

Americans. They’ve attacked women’s rights, affirmative action, workers rights, immigration, LGBT equality, food security, health care, and even our right to drink clean water and breathe clean air.

One has to wonder whether their decision to attack all of us all at once was motivated by mere greed or by an even

Benjamin Todd Jealous is the outgoing president and CEO of the national NAACP. Contact: Ben Wrobel 917846-0658 bwrobel@naacpnet. org @NAACPPress.

Louis King

she stated, “There’s still work to be done.” That was Mom’s homegoing theme… words she lifted up often and right before her passing… “We still have so much work to do!” God I miss her... I’m going to go over and sit in the presence of her shell and spirit. Here is mighty peace and wisdom for me... her resting place, in her beloved Northside. I’ll get some energy from her sister friend, Aunt Bernadette A., (Anderson) who’s a few plots over from Mom.

Film

From 1 I was not able to stay for the discussion that followed, but I reached out to get impressions of friends who did stay. Laysha Ward, in a post event email, graciously thanked those she had invited to the screening. I seized the moment to ask Ward and the list to share reactions for publication in Insight News.

Eric Mahmoud went deeper with excellent commentary that properly frames our email conversation. Robin Hickman of SoulTouch Productions, did stay for the discussion and shared her comments, feelings and insights.

This is a conversation that needs to expand. I invite readers to join this conversation online at insightnews.com and at facebook/insightnews.

-----Original Message----From: Laysha Ward Sent: Wednesday, October 30, 2013 11:57 PM To: Scott Gray; Al McFarlane; Sarah Bellamy; Louis King; Eric & Ella Mahmoud Subject: Thank you Scott, Al, Sarah, Louis, Ella and Eric Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedules to join me at the Walker tonight for the screening of 12 Years a Slave.

Tonight was the 3rd time I’ve seen the movie and I’ve just started to read the book. I often describe the film as brutal and yet beautiful, if these two emotions can live in the same space.

We are all left to wrestle with what is most compelling about this true story.

For me ultimately it’s about love, freedom and the resilience of the human spirit to conquer hate. It’s also a reminder that while we’ve made progress there is still work to be done to create freedom and equity for all. It is in that spirit that I’m grateful for your leadership in our community, focused on education, jobs, bringing a voice to our stories and so much more.

Scott Gray

Robin Hickman

On Oct 30, 2013, at 11:55 PM, “emahmoud” <emahmoud@ thebestacademy.org> wrote:

the day today discussing it with my wife, Bobbie Ford. I am comparing this film to Django, which stirred a certain sense of satisfaction from the fiction of retaliation.

Laysha, On behalf of my wife and me, I want to thank you for inviting us to the very powerful, disturbing, emotional and thought provoking film 12 Years a Slave . I must say that it took me a while to regain my composure after viewing the film this evening. I kept thinking about not just the devastating psychological impact that it had on Solomon and the other slaves almost 200 years ago; and most importantly, what are the residual psychological effects that this kind of brutality and dehumanization has on Black people today. Sigmund Freud said that “in the human mind, the past is always present.” If Freud is right, then this may provide some explanation for Black on Black crime (Solomon whipping Patsy) as well as explaining the origin of the Belief Gap (Black people being convinced that they are intellectually inferior) that so many of our children come to school with.

As someone said at the postfilm discussion tonight, this film will open up a much needed dialog about the devastating effects of the institution of slavery in the shaping of the American ethos. Thanks again for thinking about us and creating the opportunity to learn from what will prove to be one of the most important films of our time.

Sincerely, Eric Mahmoud Sent: Thursday, October 31, 2013 5:34 PM To: ‘Laysha.Ward’

12 Years a Slave , however, doesn’t fuel that fantasy. Rather it demands that I examine the points at which I would have thrown in the towel and said “no more” …”no mas”!... choosing suicide by lynching... or some certain death at the hand of my oppressor.

Then I weigh that impulse against the biggest message in the movie, the imperative of reaching grandparenthood, against all odds and at all costs, and embracing, holding, eternity...the child.

Laysha, I think you identified it as love.

The takeaways for me: 1: We trust. We are deceived.

We trust again. We are deceived. Still, again we trust.

2: This film debunks the myth of the slaveholder’s wife as an innocent bystander/victim.

3. I call on those who see the Brad Pitt character in themselves to act on their convictions today.

I would love to compile brief impressions of your/our group for publication as a screening review in Insight News. What do you think?

Laysha, thank you again.

Kudos to you and Target for helping move the ball forward.

Al McFarlane On Nov 1, 2013, at 10:19 AM, “Louis King” wrote: Laysha,

I’m honored that my role at Target has given me the opportunity to know and work alongside you.

Dear Laysha,

Best, Laysha

So I dreamed about the film last night and have spent most of

Whew! I saw Gravity the previous weekend and I thought that it had me on the edge of my seat. 12 Years a Slave was gut wrenching and initially confusing. I experienced so many emotions and had to take

Gray

created to address these very gaps. However, in order for us to be successful, we need alliances, we need supporters, and we need the government leaders onboard. The “time is now” to be courageous and to allow communities of color facing these challenges to build the capacity to provide and produce solutions. I am hopeful that MUL along with many other capable organizations can help our new leaders help the people.

The Minneapolis Urban League has been committed to removing barriers to opportunity for 87 years and we are continuing to create

innovative strategies that address the current challenges for communities of color.

Some of those innovative programs include the 13th Grade initiative; customized workforce development and Project Big Step. One of the benefits of our Gateway is that this year alone our workforce development programs will have helped to create 132 livable wage job opportunities for our community members.

We know that the need is much greater and our elected leaders can help make a more significant impact.

My hope is that this new leadership class will

From 1 is not a road you have to travel alone.

Each year thousands of people enter the doors of the Minneapolis Urban League seeking assistance and opportunity. The disparities that we see on a daily basis at MUL are the result of opportunity gaps beyond education and extend to health, occupation, income, homeownership.

The MUL’s current strategic program platform “The Gateway to Opportunity” was

Thank you for inviting me/us to screen 12 Years a Slave .

Laysha Ward the time to think about them.

Django was, at the core, about family, and so was this movie: except, the good guy did not win against those who wronged him. (This story was) much like being imprisoned unjustly and set free with just a handshake.

Brad Pitt brought to life those who have always been there.

They simply recognize that the injustice is wrong and are willing to help if we are willing to stand up--same line of thought in Django when the character would not shake hands with a man who put dogs on a slave.

Family, faith, and friends are the ties that bind.

-Louis King From: Laysha.Ward Sent: Friday, November 01, 2013 10:38 AM To: Louis King Wonderful reflections, Louis.

My great great grandma Hattie Mae, who was born in 1880 and died at the age of 105, always told us growing up that “there are a few things in life worth fighting for- freedom, family, friends, faith and an education.”

This film also reconnected me with her and the spirit of our ancestry. She often spoke of a focus on fighting for what is right and just in the world and that many things she fought for, generations later, were being realized in me. Powerful.

who were treated so unfairly and inhumanely, got through this type of oppression. I also see the correlation of this horrific experience to the struggles that exist for Black people today.

I agree with Louis that strong faith kept us. Many of our unsung heroes, including those we learn about in stories like this, illustrate that hope, faith and selflessness have been critical qualities for our survival. Many would contend that we should move past these stories and embrace “multiculturalism” where we all have an equal opportunity to achieve. However, the current realities prove again and again that we have not all arrived.

There still exists a subconscious pain that inundates, permeates us, and even binds us, whether we are at the neighborhood corner or in the corporate suite. We must lead a new movement with that same faith and selfless nature of our ancestors and show the world that we are “a people that have a true destiny”.

Scott Gray To: Robin Hickman From: Al McFarlane Dear Sister Queen,

On Nov 1, 2013, Scott Gray wrote:

Here is the thread of our conversation re: 12 Years a Slave. Please send 2-3 paragraphs adding your voice to ours. Thanks, One Love, Al

Laysha,

Dearest Brother Al-

I was out of the office yesterday, and still I probably needed a day to rein in my emotions. I share the emotions expressed by each of you. At the end of the movie when Al asked me what I thought, I had just one word: brutal.

Deepest gratitude. I just parked my car at Crystal Lake Cemetery for a visit with dear Momma, the Queen Mother Patricia. I usually turn radio off and put the phone away during this sacred time. But I was drawn to check my email and here is your message.

Thanks for sharing Laysha’s thoughts. I got chills when

As I reflected on this movie, I wondered how “our people”

successfully pursue their platforms of removing the opportunity gaps in this city. I welcome and challenge you to partner with organizations that offer innovative and proven strategies to complete this work.

The MUL has a plan in place to accomplish these goals. We want to help make Minneapolis a vibrant community where our children are reaching their full potential and families benefit from good livable wage jobs.

Leading with this platform can only enhance our city, as the nation will start to identify Minneapolis as a place where opportunities exist for all and opportunity has no boundaries.

confident that there is a bright future for both the Association and the larger civil and human rights struggle.

We may have started this century like we started the last: fighting assaults on our voting rights and pushing back against attacks on our most basic civil and human rights. Nonetheless, this time we have a distinct advantage. We know that no matter what happens in the courts, every year our ability to defend and expand civil and human rights protections at the ballot box, in statehouses and on city councils will increase.

Moreover, as organizers, we understand that while the future will come no matter what, we have the power to make the future come faster.

more devious design to ensure that we would Balkanize as we each retreated into a defensive posture.

However, together, we chose the courageous path. We have marched forward arm in arm, repeatedly embracing the motto of the three musketeers: all for one, and one for all. As a result: we have passed powerful anti racial profiling legislation in New York City and even abolished the death penalty in Maryland with the help of leaders in the LGBT community; passed marriage equality bills from coast to coast with increased support from faith leaders and communities of color; and most recently we have built a powerful defense-and offensefor voting rights by pulling the entire progressive family together in ways incomparable in recent memory. Occasionally, we have even picked up new conservative friends and allies.

Today, as I prepare to leave my position at the NAACP, I am

I’m very excited about the possibility of your proposed special 12 Years a Slave African diaspora film screening and conversation. It would be powerful and perfect as a part of the Ordway’s African Diaspora in Harmony focus to facilitate a conversation between African immigrants and legacy African American residents. This is a conversation that needs to take place between African Americans and Somalis, Ethiopians, the Oromo, Ghanaians, Liberians and Afro Caribbean and Afro Latino residents of our community.

During the Q&A I posed questions and comments to the film’s producer Bill Pohlad, related to plans for community/ educational engagement, development of discussion materials and the link to current disparities of Black people in Minnesota.

It is important that people know that a descendant of slaves, my uncle, Gordon Parks, directed the first epic film about Solomon Northup for PBS 25 years ago with very little acknowledgment in the national buzz.

Young Black men should know that these two Black men, Gordon Parks and Steve McQueen, (director of 12 Years a Slave ) have lifted up the story of a strong Black man, Solomon Northup.

This will encourage them to tell their stories. This is a powerful film and most appropriate for such a time as this.

It was interesting, but not surprising that many of the audience questions focused on the artistic and production elements/ value of the film (which was AMAZING), but not many about the content.

I look forward to what we’ll do with this historic gift in cinema. Blessings In spirit, Robin

Page 12 • November 11 - November 17, 2013 • Insight News

insightnews.com

MN employment improves, but racial gap remains

By John Michaelson, Minnesota News Connection While Minnesota officially has recovered jobs lost over the Great Recession and the unemployment rate continues to trend down, the state is still struggling with a major

employment gap among races.

Minorities are two to three times more likely to be unemployed than whites, said Law professor Nakima LevyPounds. She cited multiple reasons including a lack of networking opportunities.

Often, she said, when it comes to finding a job, it isn’t just what you know, it’s who you know.

“When people are applying

for employment positions, if they know someone who can help them get their foot in the door, that’s going to possibly be a factor in terms of who is hired,” she said. “So, if you lack access to those networks, that’s going to hinder your potential for landing a position.”

During the recession, the jobless rate for whites in Minnesota topped out at slightly

ST. CLOUD STATE UNIVERSITY offers a world of diversity and a wealth of programs and opportunity, but that’s just the beginning ...

STCLOUDSTATE.EDU/INSIGHTNEWS

MORE THAN

200 ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

“ I chose to attend St. Cloud State because I wanted to further my education and because I had a passion in life that I knew I had to pursue.”

D O NTRELL TOWNSEN D SO PH OMO RE, MASS CO MMU N ICATIO NS/RAD IO EM PHASIS H O M ETOWN: CH ICAG O, I LLI N O IS

A MEMBER OF THE MINNESOTA STATE COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES SYSTEM

more than 8 percent, while it reached 16 percent for Hispanics and around 23 percent for African-Americans.

One effort that would help close the racial employment gap is doing more to support minority-owned businesses, she said, adding that those, in turn, would hire more workers.

“One of the strategies that many stakeholders have been discussing is how to increase the capacity, so that they have enough capital to accelerate the growth of their businesses, but also so that they’re able to hire people from the community, and people from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds,” she said.

Leveling the playing field in education is another key, and Pounds said it’s vital to the future economic health of the state as the need for a skilled and

Election From 1 “Even the most dedicated of voter will say, ‘wow, that’s a challenge.’”

In an overcrowded field for mayor, two prominent Northsiders did not fare as well as had hoped. Former City Council President Jackie Cherryhomes only managed about 4.5 percent of the first choice vote, while former councilman Don Samuels was able to get more than 10 percent of the first selection vote, but still well short of the number of votes needed to capture the nod. Samuels fared well as the

well-trained workforce grows.

“As workers begin to retire in what some call the ‘silver tsunami,’ we do not have enough qualified workers to take over those positions,” she said.

High school graduation rates

in Minnesota are at around 80 percent for whites, compared with less than 50 percent for black students.

More information is online at positivelyminnesota.com.

voters’ second choice, gaining 14,170 second choice votes, a total only bested by Hodges, who captured 14,399 second choice votes.

Though it seems Hodges’ selection as Minneapolis’ next mayor is a formality, she has yet to declare victory, but several of her fellow candidates have issued concessions.

“While the election results are not final and the Ranked Choice Voting process has not been completed, it is apparent that City Councilmember Betsy Hodges will be elected the next mayor of Minneapolis,” said Cherryhomes. “I want to congratulate Betsy for her victory and wish her the best as

mayor.”

Andrew, the closest challenger to Hodges, offered a concession the night of the election. The following day he issued congratulations to Hodges via his Facebook page.

“I spoke with Mayor-elect Hodges on the phone and congratulated her on her wellearned victory in yesterday’s election,” said Andrew on his Facebook page. “We ran an incredible campaign but in the end, we just couldn’t shake her (Hodges). Betsy was tenacious, determined and she peaked at the right time. These assets will serve her well as she transitions into her new role as leader of our City. I have offered my friendship and support in pursuit of elevating Minneapolis to its next level of greatness.”

Warsame makes history In Minneapolis’ 6th Ward, Abdi Warsame made history becoming the city’s first elected Somali-American to city council. Warsame, who was DFL and labor endorsed, captured more than 40 percent of first choice votes and 20 percent of the second choice votes.

In a statement on Warsame’s Facebook page the councilman elect said his victory was a victory for all 6th Ward residents, which has the largest concentration of Somali-Americans.

“As I’ve said from the beginning, this campaign was about community - about us,” said Warsame in his Facebook message. “Thank you to our volunteers and supporters.

You took ownership over this campaign. You educated, organized, and empowered yourselves. You were relentless and reliable, and I am humbled to have been elected to serve you. I will spend my time as a Council Member honoring your support and continuing to work toward an innovative, equitable, and inclusive Minneapolis where everyone has a chance to succeed.”

History was also made in Minneapolis’ 5th Ward where Blong Yang was elected to serve as the ward’s councilman. Yang is HmongAmerican, making him the first to serve on the council once he is sworn in. Yang bested fellow DLFers Ian Alexander and Brett Buckner and Green Party candidate Kale Severson.

In Ward 9 Alondra Cano led 41% to Ty Moore’s 38% and though official election results may not be available till Monday, observers are saying that Cano will be the Ward 9 City Councilwoman. Neither Cano nor Moore met the threshold to claim victory so the contest continues with ranked choice distributions until one of the candidates meets the threshold of 50% +1. Pundits are betting Cano will surpass the threshold before Ty Moore. Cano will become the first Mexican-born person elected to Minneapolis City Council.

In St. Paul things were far less dicey for the city’s top job as Mayor Chris Coleman was easily elected to another term.

But in a hotly contested special election for councilperson in the city’s 1st Ward, a reallocation of votes has been called with Dai Thao leading with 1,346 votes to Noel Nix’s 1,165, Johnny Howard’s 727 votes and Debbie Montgomery’s 681 votes. A threshold of 2,384 votes is needed to declare a winner in that race. A reallocation had been set for Monday (Nov. 11).

The 1st Ward seat was vacated by Melvin Carter III, who took a position with the Minnesota Department of Education.

Choose well New choices in health care are here. Introducing UCare ChoicesSM, affordable new health plans from a leader in Minnesota health care, with coverage for young adults, families, empty nesters and everyone in between.

Find out more at UCareChoices.org, and look for us on the MNsure health insurance marketplace. Choose well. Choose UCare Choices.