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November 30 - December 6, 2009 • MN Metro Vol. 35 No. 48 • The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • www.insightnews.com

Minnesota leading on health reform

By Al McFarlane and B.P. Ford, The Editors Metro area Congressional Representatives Keith Ellison (MN-5) and Betty McCollum (MN-4) early this month voted for landmark health care legislation that passed the U.S. House of Representatives.

Last week, Minnesota’s Senators, Amy Klobuchar and Al Franken voted to move the health care reform debate forward in the U.S. Senate.

Ellison said the House bill aims at making health care affordable for the middle class, provide security for seniors, and guaranteeing access to health insurance coverage for the uninsured – while responsibly reducing the federal deficit over the next decade and beyond.

“This is an historic moment in America. For the first time in our nation’s history, we are making health care a right of all Americans, and not a privilege for only those who can afford it,” Ellison said.

McCollum called the House vote “a historic step toward making health care reform a reality.” She urged the Senate to stay focused and committed so an equally strong bill that would meet H.R. 3962 in conference committee.

“I am committed to sending a health care bill to the President’s desk that will bring meaningful reform for American families, seniors and businesses. With passage of this legislation health care will no longer be a privilege for those who can afford it,” McCollum said.

“Our goal is to achieve universal coverage so that every

U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar

U.S. Senator Al Franken

Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-4)

Congressman Keith Ellison (MN-5)

Minnesotan and every American has the ability to access quality, affordable health care. The Affordable Health Care for America Act (H.R. 3962) comes closer than ever before to

realizing that goal by extending health insurance coverage to ninety-six percent of Americans,” she said.

Speaking in support of the more recent Senate vote to move

debate on healthcare reform forward, Senator Al Franken said, “We are on the verge of passing historic legislation that will do more than any bill in recent history to make our

country healthier, our economy more stable, and our working families more secure.

“Make no mistake. This bill

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Tyler Perry gives $1 million to NAACP

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McCollum seeks pay as you go policy for Afghanistan Washington, DC – US Rep. Betty McCollum (MN-04), one of 10 original co-sponsors of H.R.4130, explained the legislation introduced by Appropriations Chairman David Obey that seeks to establish a temporary surtax to offset the costs of the Afghanistan war.

In a statement to the press Monday McCollum said, “Achieving stability in Afghanistan and Pakistan is a national security priority that directly impacts the safety of our

citizens. All additional funding necessary to achieve stability in this region should not be put on America’s credit card, but paid for today. In a time of economic crisis, borrowing billions of dollars from China to pay for war in Afghanistan actually undermines our national security.

Shared sacrifice means not only committing to fight a war but also committing to pay for it.”

McCollum serves on the House Appropriations & Budget Committees.

The NAACP, the country’s oldest and largest civil rights organization, announced Monday that acclaimed film director Tyler Perry has donated $1 million dollars, marking the largest gift ever given by an artist. In addition, Perry purchased several NAACP commissioned Jacob Lawrence lithographs and additional lithographs by celebrated artists Jonathan Green, Elizabeth Catlett and Sam Gilliam. The gift, which will be distributed over the next four years, was made to commemorate the organization’s Centennial anniversary.

“We are honored that Tyler Perry chose to support the NAACP,” said Julian Bond, Chairman of the NAACP. “Tyler is a courageous pioneer in bringing positive images of African American culture and struggles to the screen. His remarkable journey from poverty and childhood abuse to become one of the world’s most successful filmmakers and entrepreneurs is an inspiration to us all,” Bond said.

“Tyler Perry exemplifies an unyielding commitment to uplifting and bringing hope to the disenfranchised and those less fortunate,” stated Benjamin Todd Jealous, President and CEO of the NAACP, “Both in his films and in his life, he reflects an impressive

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Tyler Perry

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Julian Bond

ethos of caring and conscientiousness. We are deeply grateful for his support.

“I feel so honored and blessed to be in a position where I can give to the NAACP.” Perry said.

“Had it not been for the perseverance and vision of the thousands who came before me in the 100 years of this legendary organization, I would not be in the position I am in today. I continue to be thankful for the tireless work of the NAACP, and I am proud to be able to help in their mission to fight for the equality of all people, and to work towards the elimination of discrimination against race.”

“This is a paradigm shifting moment in Black philanthropy.

Here is a civil rights organization that is receiving a donation that is usually targeted only at education or cultural institutions. Tyler

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Benjamin Jealous

Perry is setting a high standard for others to follow,” said Maxim Thorne, Senior Vice President of the NAACP. “The generous gift by Tyler Perry will be used to support our Second Century Society advocacy programs on economic equality, education, health care and criminal justice” stated Benjamin Todd Jealous, President and CEO of the NAACP. Since making his film debut in 2005 with Lionsgate’s Diary of a Mad Black Woman, Tyler Perry has become a multimedia phenomenon. Eight of his nine films have debuted at #1 at the North American box office. Perry’s first book, Don’t Make a Black Woman Take Off Her Earrings: Madea’s Uninhibited Commentaries on Life and Love,

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Rep. Frank Hornstein, DFLMinneapolis

Rep. Jean Wagenius, DFLMinneapolis

PCA blocks downtown garbage plant expansion Minneapolis legislators and several environmental organizations applauded the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency’s denial of an administrative amendment to expand the Hennepin County downtown garbage incinerator.

This is the second time Hennepin County has been blocked in their effort to expand the burner capacity by 20%. In

June, the Minneapolis Planning Commission rejected Hennepin County’s application for a Conditional Use Permit for the burner expansion. Covanta then appealed the decision to the City Council which has delayed action on the matter until the MPCA clarifies permit requirements.

“This action by the MPCA

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By Sophia Adem Special to the NNPA from the Howard University News Service WASHINGTON (NNPA) – Mildred Muhammad sought closure for her children. “They need closure and to see their dad one last time before he is placed in the ground.”

D.C. sniper John Allen Muhammad, and Mildred had three children John, 19; Salena, 17; and Taalibah, 16.

Muhammad was executed by lethal injection at Greenville Correctional Center in Jarratt, VA, for the murder of one of his 10 victims, Dean Meyers, who was gunned down at a gas

station. Muhammad’s death was confirmed at 9:11 pm November 10.

Neither Ms. Muhammad nor the children visited Muhammad the day of his execution although his first wife, Carol Williams, and son Lindbergh Williams, 26, did “He didn’t put their names on the visitor’s list, and he didn’t call them,” Ms. Muhammad explained. “His attorney said that it was out of shame that he didn’t want to do that. He couldn’t muster up the courage to see our children.”

Ms. Muhammad was not surprised by his actions. The children had had no contact with him while he was incarcerated.

Even his silence before the execution was what she

cutting case ends with misdemeanor guilty plea

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Seeking closure for children following sniper’s execution Rep. Jim Davnie, DFL – Minneapolis

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New Moon Interview

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still paying for wrongdoing

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BUSINESS 2010 salaries: Lucky to be working? You should still expect fair pay Plan your career

By Julie Desmond julie@insightnews.com Marcus writes: I have been asked to prepare the 2010 budget for my new purchasing department mainly departmental salaries. I want to research what we should be paying as I suspect we are ALL underpaid because we were all hired during the down economy.

My buyers are asking for more and I, too, feel underpaid.

Julie says: This is tough because our down economy still hasn’t come around, and with so many talented people available to work, employers have the upper hand on compensation decisions. Still, you and those in your department

Health From 1 will change. There will be amendments to it that make it an even better bill. And there may be amendments that make it less to my liking, and therefore a less good bill from my point of view.

But the final bill will make health care available to tens of millions more Americans,” Franken said.

He said proposed health reforms will make health insurance more secure for all

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 Director of Content & Production Patricia Weaver Sr. Content & Production Coordinator Elliot Stewart-Franzen Web Design & Content Associate Ben Williams Distribution/Facilities Manager Jamal Mohamed Receptionist Lue B. Lampley Contributing Writers Brenda Colston Julie Desmond Marcia Humphrey Mehgaan Jones Alaina L. Lewis Rashida McKenzie Ryan T. Scott Photography Suluki Fardan Tobechi Tobechukwu Contact Us: Insight News, Inc. Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Ave. N. MinneAPOlis., MN 55411 Ph.: (612) 588-1313 Fax: (612) 588-2031 Member: Minnesota Multicultural Media Consortium (MMMC) Midwest Black Publishers Coalition, Inc. (MBPCI) National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) Postmaster: Send address changes to McFarlane Media Interests, Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55411.

should always expect to be paid fairly. To find out what “fair” means, these days, research from three different angles: Web sites such as salary.com, payscale.com and jobstar.org are easy first places to start doing compensation comparisons. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov) also publishes wage information.

Make sure your results are industry-and locationspecific if possible.

After that, connect with any professional organizations related to your positions, as they commonly post member surveys related to salaries and benefits.

Compare what you learned in step one with what you hear from these organizations.

Finally, ask around. HR people from competing companies probably won’t give you salary info, but peers, friends or LinkedIn/Facebook connections who do similar work in other companies or comparable industries might be willing to give you ballpark numbers for each position if you explain why you’re Americans who have it and it will put an end to the unsustainable cost trajectory. The reform measures avert an otherwise inevitable catastrophe to our health care system, and our economy, Franken said.

“The reality right now is that we are denying millions of Americans their shot at the American Dream because of our irrational health insurance system,” Franken said.

“This bill guarantees secure coverage that will be there for Americans, and stay there when they need it. This isn’t going to help just individual Americans; it’s going to help small businesses too. And there are urgently needed changes that will go into effect the day we sign this bill into law. The Senate bill also requires transparent reporting of how health insurance companies

asking. You can also type your job description into a search engine like Indeed.com and see what salary parameters are most common. Do a reverse search, too, typing in your expected salary to find out how many other companies are hiring your position at that comp level.

If you can’t secure all the money you’re looking for, consider other negotiating chips (more days off, flexibility, training or education or more $$ toward your health care, for example) or see if you can negotiate a six month salary agreement stating the budget will be revisited at the mid-2010 mark. If you’re stuck with today’s lowball salary until 2011, keep an ear on the ground for other positions, and expect a bigger jump in compensation in a year or so. A lot can change between now and then.

Julie Desmond is Director of Career Planning Resources for Help Wanted! Workshop. Send your career planning questions to julie@insightnews.com.

ccording to 2009 World Health Organization figures, America – the richest country in the world – ranks 45th in the world for infant mortality – just behind Cuba, and just ahead of the Faroe Islands. We were 43rd last year, 12th in 1960, and 21st in 1990.

In an America without universal health care 6.3 infants die per 1000 live births. Thirty thousand infants die in an America without health care each year.

Life expectancy at birth in an America without universal health care ranks only 47th in

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are spending your money. This transparency is especially important as we cover an additional 31 million Americans under this bill. We know from their profit margins that right

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highest total life expectancy compared to other countries.

According to the Health Affairs 2005 Journal, about half of the bankruptcy filings in the United States are due to medical expenses.

For all of that, the United States currently spends twice as much on health care per capita ($7,129) than any other country…In 2005, according to the National Center for Health Statistics; the national health care expenditures totaled $2 Trillion.

now, insurance companies are price gouging.

But clear reporting will help us hold them accountable for every dollar we invest in health insurance,” Franken said.

“Based on our experience in Minnesota, I know we can do even more to reign in marketing, wasteful administrative costs, and profits in health insurance.

In the coming weeks, we’ll debate this bill, amend it, and make it even better. And I’ll be pushing to require that an even higher percentage of your premiums go toward actual care,” he said.

“The reason I believe we can provide high quality care without excessive profits is because Minnesota already does it. We are distinguished by the fact that 90 percent of Minnesotans are served by a non-profit health plan. These plans outperform their national peers and are able to put an average of 91 cents of every premium dollar toward actual health care services,” he said.

“So the first important change that health reform will bring is choice of plans for small businesses. They will be able to participate in the exchange which will offer a choice of reliable plans. This coverage will be less expensive and provide better coverage than what’s available today.

“Right now, if you’re a business with, say, 15 employees, and one of them gets sick or maybe has a baby, your premiums are going to go up dramatically. That’s because your risk pool is 15 people. But when you choose from policies on the exchange, your risk can be pooled with hundreds, even thousands of other businesses.

That’s the point of insurance: to spread the risk over the

Perry

and Mary J. Blige. Along with Oprah Winfrey and Lionsgate, he also helped release Lee Daniels’ critically acclaimed film, Precious.

Perry has a long history of supporting programs that help the hungry and the homeless.

Founded in 1909, the NAACP is the nation’s oldest and largest civil rights organization. Its more than half-million members and supporters throughout the United States and the world are the premier advocates for civil and human rights in their communities, conducting voter mobilization and advocating for equal opportunity in the public and private sectors.

From 1 debuted at #1 on The New York Times hardcover nonfiction bestseller list the week of April 30, 2006, and was named both Book of the Year and Humor Book of the Year at the October 2006 Quill Book Awards. Last year, Perry unveiled Tyler Perry Studios, a 200,000-square-foot studio created from a former Delta Air Lines facility in Atlanta, where his films and television shows are filmed.

This fall, Perry released his ninth film, I Can Do Bad All By Myself, co-starring Taraji Henson

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Insight News • November 30 - December 6, 2009 • Page 3

Walmart line cutting case ends with misdemeanor guilty plea

By Special to the NNPA from the Afro-American Newspaper (NNPA) - A woman who faced up to 15 years in jail for an altercation which began when she allegedly cut the line at a Missouri Walmart has pled guilty to misdemeanor charges.

Heather Ellis went on trial November 18, for two felony charges of assault in Kennett, Mo. But just a few hours after the case went to the jury on November 20, Ellis accepted a plea deal.

The deal dropped the two felony charges of assault in exchange for Ellis pleading guilty to two

Sniper From 1 expected.

“He stayed true to the person that I knew,” she said. “He didn’t

misdemeanor charges, disturbing the peace and resisting arrest, according to reports in the Daily Dunklin, a newspaper in Kennett, MO. As part of her plea, Ellis will spend four days in jail before the end of the year. Then she will undergo an unsupervised probation for a year and she will have to attend two hours in an anger management class. She is also required to pay the costs of her prosecution in the case. If she complies with the terms of the deal, the incident will be sealed and her record expunged.

The deal is similar to one which Ellis was offered by prosecutors shortly after her arrest, a deal that

she refused several times.

According to a report in the Southeast Missourian, Ellis said it had been worth it to go to trial, saying, “I still think it’s important my story got out.”

While the incident occurred almost three years ago, Ellis’ case gained national attention in the weeks leading up to her trial, largely due to efforts of prominent advocate Boyce Watkins and his organization, Your Black World Coalition. Watkins worked in concert with the local NAACP chapter and the Southeast Missouri ACLU to provide support for Ellis and her family.

In a statement on BlackVoices.com, where Watkins

is a regular contributor, he said he was happy that this ordeal was over for Ellis and her family.

However, he expressed surprise at the outcome of the case, and said he would urge the Justice Department to investigate wider issues of prosecutor intimidation.

In an interview before the trial, Ellis’ mother, Hester, told the AFRO that her daughter was innocent.

“I think the truth is a very important element,” Hester Ellis said. “There is nothing really to prove their story. She’s innocent and that’s her stand. Hopefully the truth will come out.”

But after accepting the plea deal, Heather Ellis told reporters,

want anybody to know how he felt. He didn’t want anyone to dissect his last words or give them anything to hold on to. I told my children before it even happened, ‘Your dad’s not going to do that. So don’t look for that.’”

No Hard Feelings Ms. Muhammad holds no hard feelings toward her ex-husband.

She said that she is at peace and has found closure. She also makes sure that she doesn’t speak negatively to her children when reflecting on her marriage.

“They have the facts,” she said. “I’m not going to distort it.

I will never say anything bad about their father. They have a right to love him and it would be wrong for me to speak badly to them about him.” Now an author and national spokesperson on domestic violence, Ms. Muhammad shares her experiences with abuse in her marriage as a way to empower and help others who are in similar relationships.

In mid-October, Ms. Muhammad released her first book, Scared Silent, a collection of personal journals, a comprehensive safety plan for victims to escape their abusers and resources. Published by Simon & Schuster/Strebor Books, Scared Silent talks of her relationship with her ex-husband and stresses that “you don’t have to have physical scars to be a victim or survivor of domestic violence.” She has also started an organization called After the Trauma.

Domestic abuse, which is the verbal, psychological and economic degrading of one’s partner, is also a part of domestic violence, Ms. Muhammad said.

“Unfortunately, the abuse part of domestic violence is not looked upon as serious, because there are no physical scars to prove that type of victimization,” she said. “There have been several men and women that have approached me and told me they didn’t know that they were

(AP Photo/Corey Noles, Dexter Daily Statesman, File)

Heather Ellis, left, arm-in-arm with her mother, Hester Ellis, exiting the Stoddard County Justice Center in Bloomfield, MO. “I was responsible for my actions and I was able to say what I did wrong and I think it’s important that everyone else step up to the

plate and admit what they did was wrong, too.”

victims until they heard me speak, because they thought that they had to have a physical scar.”

‘I Didn’t Look Like a Victim’ The domestic abuse survivor said that it was hard for her to get support when she sought it.

“He was in the community,” she said of her ex-husband. “He was charismatic, very well spoken, well dressed, an attractive man. Nobody believed he was doing those things that I said because he presented himself one way to the public and he was a different way at home. [Secondly] I didn’t look like a victim, by coming in crying. I was a professional person and I wasn’t going to belittle myself to try to get the help that I needed,” said Ms. Muhammad.

This was her only experience with domestic abuse, but she said the first threat was enough to make her leave “Statistics said it takes seven times for a woman to leave. I left the first time. I didn’t need to go back to find out if he was going to kill me. He said he was going to kill me. It was enough for me,” she said.

Changed by the Gulf War As she recalls her five-year relationship with Muhammad, she notes that he was not always abusive.

“He was a person that was always talkative,” Ms. Muhammad said. “Even when he woke up in the morning, he was always talking about something.”

However, she noticed a change after he came back from the Gulf War. “He was very quiet and withdrawn,” she recalled.

“He didn’t want anything to do with anyone. He was just so reserved that I knew something was going on.”

In addition to the custody battle over the children and the divorce, the lack of debriefing from the military aided little in John’s reign of terror, she said.

“I believe that had he had debriefing and counseling for his PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) then perhaps he would not have exploded the way he did,” she said. “I will say that they had a part in it, but he was

recognize it, but when you start acting that’s when you take your power back.”

She stressed that planning is also a key element in fighting against domestic abuse and violence.

“If you’ve got the time to plan, then that’s what you need to do,” she said. “You need to be strategic when leaving an abuser, because they’re always thinking

still able to make decisions on his own and I feel he knew what he was doing.”

‘Stop Reacting and Start Acting’ As a domestic abuse survivor who had a hard time receiving resources, Ms. Muhammad makes sure that her organization, After the Trauma, provides victims with the courage, shelter and support that they need whether they decide to stay in or leave the relationship.

“There are professional people that I am helping right now that are trying to figure out how to maneuver between home and keeping their jobs because they are victims,” she said.

“Some people were in the military and they’re saying, ‘my husband is acting the same way and he just came from a war zone and nobody’s listening to me.’”

Ms. Muhammad said the most important advice she can give victims is “to stop reacting and start acting...As long as you’re reacting to what he’s doing, he’s keeping you off balance so that you don’t

ahead of you. You always have to stay one step ahead of them in order for you to save your own life. That’s what I had to do.”

A New Life Ms. Muhammad is content with her new occupation and is enjoying life with her new husband of two years, Reuben Muhammad.

“He is a counselor for substance abuse teenagers,” she said. “We have a lot in common.”

As of now, Ms. Muhammad has no plans to rest in her campaign against domestic violence.

“I’ve got a lot of work to do,” she said. “I’m not tired from it.

I’m not running from it. I’m working through it face forward and trying to help as many people that I can.

“We concentrate on the 20 percent; we forget totally about 80 percent of us walking around.

If you slit us down the middle and turned us inside out, then you will see all of the scars that you will need to see.”

Garbage

input. In a November 19 letter the MPCA told Covanta, “The application [for an administrative amendment] is being returned

existing laws stating, “MPCA staff would like to caution you to continue to comply with existing permit condition.”

From 1 gives the public and policy makers the time to come up with other options for handling Hennepin County’s garbage in more environmentally responsible ways,” said Rep. Jim Davnie, DFL – Minneapolis. “I hope that all players are now willing to come to the table in the public interest and with a broader vision.”

Earlier this month, Covanta, the incinerator operator, sought a rarely used administrative amendment from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) to railroad the expansion through without further public

“Statistics said it takes seven times for a woman to leave. I left the first time. I didn’t need to go back to find out if he was going to kill me. He said he was going to kill me. It was enough for me,”

“This action by the MPCA gives the public and policy makers the time to come up with other options for handling Hennepin County’s garbage in more environmentally responsible ways,” because the requested change does not qualify for an administrative amendment.” The MPCA further stated that the application, “does not include information needed for the MPCA to make a determination” on the permit amendment. The state agency also took the step of warning Covanta to comply with

“Hennepin County sought the administrative permit amendment to by-pass public input and proper environmental study,” said Rep. Frank Hornstein, DFLMinneapolis, a burner opponent.

“Given the MPCA action, the City Council should reject the burner permit once and for all and demand that the County increase recycling and composting instead of its reliance on incineration.”

Rep. Jean Wagenius, DFLMinneapolis, a key legislative environmental leader added, “More burning is not a responsible option when we all need to help reduce greenhouse gases. The responsible option is more composting and recycling.”

Ten Minneapolis legislators authored a letter in the summer urging the City Council and Mayor to reject increased incineration.

Environmental organizations with extensive membership in Minneapolis also oppose the burner expansion.

Clean Water Action, Sierra Club, Environment Minnesota, Neighbors Against the Burner, and Minneapolis Neighbors for Clean Air, joined the legislators in demanding that Minneapolis oppose increased burning.

“Minneapolis and Hennepin County should be role models for ramping up the reuse, recycling and composting practices that protect our air and water for generations to come,” said Margaret Levin, State Director of the Sierra Club’s Northstar Chapter, with 3500 members in Minneapolis. “Burning more garbage at the downtown incinerator would be a step backwards for our clean, renewable energy future. We can do better.”

A City Council panel is expected to debate the burner expansion on December 10.

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EDUCATION Recruitment and retention initiatives boost state university enrollments The system provided funds to every college and university to expand programs and services that have proven to be effective.

The best practices include

Enrollment of new students from groups traditionally underrepresented in higher education increased by 22 percent this fall at the 32 Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, according to a new report presented to the Board of Trustees. These groups include students of color, low-income students and students whose parents did not attend college.

The state colleges and universities system enrolled 7,300 new underrepresented students. In addition, 8,000 more underrepresented students returned to the system’s institutions this fall, a 15 percent increase over a year ago. The total number of underrepresented students this

fall is 94,302, an increase of 18 percent.

“These increases are important for the state of Minnesota,” said Chancellor James H. McCormick. “The numbers show we have made substantial progress in recruiting and retaining more underrepresented students, although the economy also played a role in the increase.”

To help the state’s employers maintain their competitive edge in the global marketplace, Minnesota needs more students from these groups to complete postsecondary programs as aging baby boomers retire and the state’s population grows more diverse, McCormick said.

The system produces 33,500

graduates each year. Eighty percent of them stay in Minnesota to work or continue their education.

Though the state colleges

and universities have been working to improve recruitment and retention of underrepresented students for years, a system initiative called “Access, Opportunity and Success” began in the fall of 2007. The Board of Trustees allocated $11 million a year for the initiative.

programs to help new students succeed in the transition from high school, advisors who routinely initiate contact with students, learning communities of students, summer programs and tutoring.

Brochures, posters and a Web site in nine languages also reached out to students from

Health

family, local, state and federal budgets. We must make the system cost-effective, proactive and stable,” Klobuchar said Klobuchar said health care discussions should reflect these priorities “First, we must reform our system to reward high-quality, efficient care. As it happens,

Health Policy and Clinical Practice, if spending for chronically ill patients everywhere in the country mirrored the efficient level of spending in the Mayo Clinic’s home region of Rochester, MN, Medicare could save $50 billion in taxpayer money over five years. To rein in costs, we need to

costs for taxpayers. To reduce prescription costs, health care reform legislation should allow the government to negotiate the drug prices for Medicare Part D. “Another way to incentivize more affordable health care in general is to better regulate insurance and create meaningful competition for health care services,” she said.

“Third, I want to ensure that health care reform takes into account the needs of rural Americans. People in rural areas are less likely to have access to employer-provided health insurance, which means more people rely on the individual insurance market or public programs like Medical Assistance and, in Minnesota, MinnesotaCare,” Klobuchar said.

“Finally, it is imperative that health care reform does not ignore the importance of elder care. Seniors want to be able to live independently and stay in their own homes as long as possible. Family support is

From 2 greatest number of people,” Franken said.

“The second key benefit for small businesses is tax credits to help business owners purchase coverage.

Effective immediately, these credits will ease the burden on small business owners who offer coverage but are being squeezed in the current market. For business owners who haven’t been able to offer insurance, the tax credits will provide a new incentive to begin covering their workers, keeping the workforce healthy and productive,” said Franken.

“The public option will bring much-needed competition, and the incentives for high-quality care will make us all healthier.

Taken together, these elements will bring our country into a new era in which high-quality – and affordable – health care is a reality in this country.

“Passing national health reform this year is my top priority because I’ve listened to Minnesotans across the state.

They’ve told me—loud and clear—that the current health insurance system isn’t working for them. And they’ve told me that they want access to care.

And I’ve heard them,” Franken said.

Klobuchar, in statemens on her website, said, “Minnesotans are facing higher health care costs than ever before — costs that have far outpaced the growth in family incomes.

She said many businesses, particularly small businesses, can no longer afford the costs of health insurance, even though they want to cover their employees. Employees are forced to pay a larger share of the premiums - or they get no health insurance at all. And more and more Minnesotans with health insurance struggle to pay escalating deductibles and copays “We need to keep what works and fix what’s broken. Ever escalating health spending now accounts for more than one-sixth of our economy. Unchecked, it will increasingly choke our

The state colleges and universities system enrolled 7,300 new underrepresented students.

We need to keep what works and fix what’s broken. Ever escalating health spending now accounts for more than one-sixth of our economy. doctors and hospitals in many regions of the country, including Minnesota, practice exactly this kind of medicine. However, Medicare does not currently reward them for it. The problem is that, despite periodic efforts at reform, Medicare pays for quantity not quality. States that have historically delivered low quality, inefficient care are still rewarded for wasteful practices, while efficient states such as Minnesota are punished. For example, according to a study by the Dartmouth Institute for

have all states aiming for highquality, cost-effective results like those we have achieved in Minnesota.

“Second, America has a serious problem with health care inflation, runaway costs and wasteful spending,” said Klobuchar. “Ever-rising drug prices are among the leading causes. The “non-interference” clause in Medicare Part D expressly prohibits Medicare from negotiating directly with drug companies to obtain lower drug prices for seniors and lower

non-English speaking backgrounds in the 8th through 10th grades to explain the benefits of attending college and to encourage them to prepare for college.

“Underrepresented students often face barriers to entering college and succeeding once they get there,” McCormick said. “The Legislature and the governor have supported this initiative, and we are grateful for their interest. It is gratifying that we are making some notable progress, but we still are a long way from eliminating the achievement gap that separates low-income and minority students from others.”

Enrollment was up in nearly all subgroups. The number of

new students of color this fall grew by 16 percent, new firstgeneration college students increased by 21 percent and new students eligible for Pell grants increased by 37 percent. Pell grant eligibility is typically used by higher education institutions as an indication of family income.

The Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system comprises 32 state universities and community and technical colleges serving the higher education needs of Minnesota. The system serves about 250,000 students per year in credit-based courses and an additional 140,000 students in non-credit courses.

essential to making that option available.

However, elder care responsibilities can result in high out-of-pocket health and longterm care expenses for families that care for aging parents and relatives,” Klobuchar said.

“This is the change Americans have asked for. Like the landmark laws that came before it: Social Security, The Voting Rights Act, and Medicare – the Affordable Health Care for America Act will change the face of America for the betterment of all,” Ellison said.

Ellison and McCollum were among the prevailing Members who voted 220-215 in support of the measure.

• Improve Medicare for 76,000 beneficiaries, including closing the prescription drug donut hole for 8,600 seniors.

• Allow 21,100 small businesses to obtain affordable health care coverage and provide tax credits to help reduce health insurance costs for up to 18,400 small businesses.

• Provide coverage for 45,000 uninsured residents.

• Protect up to 900 families from bankruptcy due to unaffordable health care costs.

• Reduce the cost of uncompensated care for hospitals and health care providers by $184 million.”

McCollum said, “This legislation will make quality health care more affordable and more accessible for every patient.

It will protect families from falling into bankruptcy due to unaffordable costs by limiting out-of-pocket costs, lifting lifetime limits on coverage, and lowering premiums.”

Ellison said the Affordable Health Care for America Act will: • Improve employer-based coverage for 358,000 residents.

Provide credits to help pay for coverage for up to 159,000 households.

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Insight News • November 30 - December 6, 2009 • Page 5

AESTHETICS

New Moon rakes in over $72 million on opening day

By Alaina L. Lewis Contributing Writer The Twilight Saga: New Moon, the second installment from a children’s book series that has found major success in the world of motion pictures, next to the unstoppable Harry Potter, has already shattered a box office record that was previously set by last summer’s smash hit The Dark Knight. The film raked in over $72 Million in its first day at theatres and $140 Million gross in its opening weekend. Those are pretty incredible stats for a teenage thriller about Vampires.

Adapted from Stephanie Meyer’s Twilight book series, the story follows the life of a teenage girl named Bella Swan, who after moving to Forks, WA to live with her father, falls in love with a 104year-old vampire named Edward Cullen, who’s posing as a 17-yearold highschool student.

Reminiscent of the story of Romeo and Juliet, their forbidden love is met by many challenges and struggles, that go further than Edward’s initial fear of not wanting to, as the saying goes, “suck her blood.” With a tribe of werewolves watching their every move, and a plethora of other individuals —both human and vampire— who are standing in the way of their forbidden love, they encounter many moons of excitement that take them on an amazing journey past the first Twilight, into a New Moon, then onto an Eclipse of adventure, until the moment when they find themselves finally Breaking Dawn.

The series has become an addiction with fans from every generation, and quite like the consequence of a vampire bite, it appears to have an immortal presence that is continually progressing within its growing franchise and following of faithful “Twi-Hards.”

Insight News caught up with two of the New Moon stars, while they were on a promotional visit to Minneapolis’ Mall of America.

Kenyan born actor Edi Gathegi, who plays the vampire Laurent, and British native Jamie Campbell Bower, who slides into the role of Caius, gave us the scoop on this Winter’s hottest film, and clued us into the idea as to why the world can’t stop screaming for these incredible vampires.

Insight News: How’s your day going guys?

Jamie Campbell Bower: That’s a toughy.

IN: Oh no, it’s a toughy? Well then tell me why it’s tough.

JCB: Just kidding, it’s going good, that was just a tough question.

IN: [Laughs] Nice, nice, you got me on that one.

Edi Gathegi: I love those hard hitting questions all early in the morning. But Jamie, how is your morning, I didn’t even get to talk to you before this interview?

JCB: It’s pretty good, I went for a walk.

EG: Well I went to the gym.

JCB: How was that?

EG: The gym was nice. I had acupuncture last night.

IN: What’s going on Edi? Are you alright?

EG: It’s my neck, I think I might have pinched a nerve in it. I got it released, and I actually slept for the first time last night.

IN: So you two are just doing interviews all day and then you’ll rush to the Mall of America and hear all the screaming fans. Are you both excited about all of that?

JCB: Yeah, I’m excited, I even think Anya Marina is playing there tonight. So that will be cool, we’ll get to hang out with her for a bit.

IN: Now Jamie, this is your first time in the Twilight Series, what made you want to be in the second installment of the film/book series?

JCB: I read the script for the first one, and I really enjoyed the first film and the reading of the first script. I really wanted to be apart of that, but unfortunately it had come during a time in my life when I wasn’t able to be seen for it. I was just very busy, so when they approached me about being in the second one —here I am— I took the chance.

IN: Edi, were you a fan of the book series before you started the movie or how did you get approached by Twilight and become apart of this film?

EG: I think because I was on the ground floor as it were, very few of us even knew what this was or

had any idea how big this was.

The books had sold very well, but you couldn’t really find anyone who had read it, so it was under the radar. After I got the part, that’s when I finally picked up the books and read them and fell in love with the books. I said to myself, ‘Okay, this is something here.’ The first time we as a cast collectively understood how big this could be was at Comic Con when the fans camped out overnight, 6,000 of them, and achieved the highest decibel level the convention had ever had. They screamed like we were the Beatles. We felt like we were the Beatles.

IN: You are one of the only African American cast members in the film series, how does that make you feel and how do you think you’re reaching the African American audience?

EG: I think I’m reaching African American audiences everywhere by virtue of me just being in it.

They can look at the screen and go, ‘Thank you, I’m represented.’

But honestly, the character wasn’t originally written as being African American. He was described as being olive-toned, so when I got cast, there was a lot of fan backlash and they were pretty upset about it, and made a fuss about it online.

JCB: Really?

EG: This was very early on, so I just decided to address the issue head on. I did an interview with one of the websites and they mentioned it, and I said, ‘Listen one of the reasons why I’m cast in this movie is because Stephanie [Meyer] was very genius in the description of my character. She described Laurent as being olive toned. Now there are many different types of olives and black olives are one of them.’

ALL: [Laughs] EG: So I won them over with humor.

IN: Well you’ve definitely gone into the role well and made it your own. Is this your last time in it Edi, or are you going to make some appearances in the next film, Eclipse, that’s due out next summer? I’ve read the books, this is like the end of the road for the character Laurent, correct?

EG: [Singing] I know we’ve come, to the end of the road, but Laurent must go.

ALL: [Laughs] EG: I don’t have any scheduled shoot days as of now, but who knows, they may need some flashback images of Laurent from the previous two films, if they do that. But yeah, this is the end of the road, and I’m not upset by any stretch of the imagination. I’m happy that I was in two of them and I think that it was a great career move and I’ve had a great time and will always remember these experiences.

IN: That’s good to know. You’re in Harry Potter’s Deathly Hallows that comes out next summer, Jamie.

JCB: I am, but I’m also in New Moon, too. [Laughs] IN: Working on one big film and then immediately another —how did that work out? Was Sweeney Todd your first movie?

JCB: Yes, yes it was.

IN: Did it take a lot for you to get into the roles, or was it easy to step into each character?

JCB: Well the thing is there are

Edi Gathegi (left) and Jamie Campbell Bower books, so it’s not like with other films where you’re going in with just the script where you have to sit down at a round table and really discuss this character. All we really had to do was read the books and everything is there. As actors we all bring our own flavor to what we do. That’s all we can do. We just take what Stephanie [Meyer] has written and do what we do.

EG: She’s written this blue print, and the rules are very specific and if you read the books, she tells you what it is to be a vampire and you as a human being, what you bring to the table is just going to be unique if you follow the rules.

You will be your unique vampire.

IN: So what do you want to leave the readers of Insight News with?

Maybe a special message.

JCB: Just hold out for Breaking Dawn, because the Volturi come

back with a vengeance. [Laughs].

IN: So have they confirmed they’re going to adapt the fourth book into a film yet?

JCB: Well we haven’t confirmed it yet, but they’re definitely looking into it, but I still can’t say yay or nay on it.

IN: But you do have hopes that they will.

JCB: I would love to be back for Breaking Dawn.

EG: I would like to say this.

Stephanie Meyers did something phenomenal.

She wrote something that is just as addictive as a drug is. People cannot put this down. I’ve heard stories of Mothers leaving their kids in the bathtub —which is not good— because they were reading the books. The books are highly addictive and people are able to read them in just a matter of days.

The good thing is, it has gotten kids excited about reading again this series. There are many books out there that will bring you to wonderful worlds, so I want the kids to take their love for this series and continue to just be passionate about books.

JCB: Nice.

IN: Before you go Edi, where can we see you next?

Brenda J King

EG: Well I’m working on another job right now. I have something else in the can right now too, but it will probably never see the light of day.

IN: Well I’m glad to know you got something on the rise because fans would love to see you again soon. Thank you both for your time.

Page 6 • November 30 - December 6, 2009 • Insight News

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HEALTH Report makes case for health insurance reform in Minnesota HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced the release of a new report highlighting the benefits of health insurance reform for Minnesota.

“Families, seniors and businesses are all suffering under the health care status quo,” said Sebelius. “Our new reports demonstrate how health insurance reform will improve health care for all Americans.”

Under health insurance reform in Minnesota: • 519,000 residents who do not currently have insurance and • •

• 356,000 residents who have nongroup insurance could get affordable coverage through the health insurance exchange.

• 282,000 residents could qualify for premium tax credits to help them purchase health coverage.

• 747,000 seniors would receive free preventive services.

• 133,000 seniors would have their brand-name drug costs in the Medicare Part D “doughnut hole” halved.

• 72,400 small businesses could be helped by a small business tax credit to make premiums more affordable.

The report also cites: • Health Insurance Reform Provides Early Relief and Health Security.

• Proposals implemented in 2010 and 2011 will produce real benefits for: • Families:The 5.2 million residents of Minnesota will benefit as reform: • Ensures consumer protections in the insurance market.

• Creates immediate options for people who can’t get insurance today.

• Ensures free preventive services.

• Supports health coverage for

early retirees.

• Seniors: Minnesota’s 747,000 Medicare beneficiaries6 will benefit as reform: • Lowers premiums by reducing Medicare’s overpayments to private plans • Reduces prescription drug spending.

• Covers free preventive services.

Small businesses: While small businesses make up 76 percent of Minnesota’s businesses, only 40 percent of them offered health coverage benefits in 2008.11 72,400 small

businesses in Minnesota could be helped by a small businesses tax credit proposal that makes premiums more affordable.12 And these small businesses would be exempt from any employer responsibility provisions.

States: State budgets will be relieved from rising health care costs as reform: • Reduces state employee premiums.

• Reduces uncompensated care.

The report also notes that if we do nothing, by 2019 the number of

uninsured people will grow by more than 30 percent in 29 states and by at least 10 percent in every state. Without reform, the amount of uncompensated care provided will more than double in 45 states.

Additionally, businesses in 27 states will see their premiums more than double and fewer people will have coverage through an employer if the status quo continues.

To read the complete report and learn more about health insurance reform visit www.HealthReform.gov.

Black nurses recommend “gold

standard” for mammography The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has made new recommendations on mammography screening for women. It now advocates that mammography screening should begin at age 50. The recommendations are based on a model that focuses on the balance of risks and benefits of women having their first mammogram at the age 40 or the age 50; and the need to have a mammogram and annually versus every two years.

The National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) is recommending that women continue to follow the “gold standard” of breast health screening as detailed by the American Cancer Society, that a woman begins an annual mammogram screening at age 40. NBNA also recommends that all women continue to use self breast exams as explained by their health care provider.

NBNA is concerned that thousands of women are diagnosed with breast cancer annually. Only half of breast

cancer diagnosed in African American women is found in the earliest stages, compared to 62% in white women. The major reason for the difference is a lack of mammograms and inadequate screenings. There continues to be a health care

Therefore, NBNA recommends to its membership and to all women that you keep doing what you are doing, get a mammogram starting at age 40, have an annual mammogram and continue self breast exams.

These are the first line of

Only half of breast cancer diagnosed in African American women is found in the earliest stages, compared to 62% in white women. disparity gap among African American women who are diagnosed at later stages of breast cancer; and who die at an earlier age and more frequently with breast cancer.

The NBNA will continue to rely on evidenced based guidelines and will advocate and educate women as we always have. Mammograms have always been an important lifesaving tool in the fight against breast cancer and our strategy for saving the lives of all women will not change.

defense tools that save lives.

The mission of the National Black Nurses Association is to provide a forum for collective action by Black nurses to investigate, define and advocate for the health care needs of African Americans and to implement strategies that ensure access to health care, equal to, or above health care standards of the larger society.. said Debra Toney, president of the association.

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Insight News • November 30 - December 6, 2009 • Page 7

Historic Health Care Bill passed in House, now Senate must act

By Marc H. Morial NNPA Columnist (NNPA) - After winning this year’s American League Eastern Division championship, the New York Yankees faced a gauntlet of 11 more games before they could claim their 27th World Series title. Each playoff victory took the team

their health care championship series when the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Affordable Health Care for America Act, which would extend health care coverage to 96% of Americans and guarantee stability, lower costs, and higher quality while strengthening efforts to address racial and ethnic health disparities.

“The ‘war room’ includes phone banks, cross-country rallies and the mobilization of Black radio stations to marshal the votes needed…” closer to its final goal, but as Yankee legend, Yogi Berra once said, “It ain’t over till it’s over.”

The same can be said about health care reform. On November 7, the American people won the first round of

It was an historic achievement, marking the first time that any chamber of Congress has ever passed comprehensive health reform.

And it could not have happened

without the tenacious leadership of Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the strategic genius of Majority Whip, James Clyburn or the principled participation of the Congressional Black Caucus led by its dynamic chairman, Congresswoman Barbara Lee of California. Passage of the House bill was also assisted by an unprecedented Civil Rights Health Care War Room effort.

This is a grassroots campaign to mobilize public support led by the joint efforts of the National Urban League, the NAACP and the Black Leadership Forum. As reported in the Afro Newspapers, “The ‘war room’ includes phone banks, cross-country rallies and the mobilization of Black radio stations to marshal the votes needed…” for real health care reform with a public option.

These efforts were instrumental in securing the passage of the House bill, but

this was just a first round victory. The second round involves passage by the Senate and the opposition promises to be even tougher. President Obama has said that he wants to sign a final bill before the end of this year. But opponents are already gearing up to delay and ultimately defeat a Senate bill.

That is why we are keeping the Civil Rights Health Care War Room in operation until we achieve a final victory. I urge you to call the war room hotline at 1-866-783-2462 to speak to your Senator and make your voice heard. Health care reform is especially critical to our communities. People of color are more likely to suffer and die from chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes and heart disease. At that same time, they are less likely to have health insurance and on average spend more of their income on health care.

As Congresswoman Barbara Lee has said, “Grassroots mobilization helped elect the first African American to the presidency of the United States of America. Grassroots activism will help us pass a health care

reform with a strong public option.”

We won round one, but we need your help to achieve a final victory. Remember, “It ain’t over till it’s over.”

Page 8 • November 30 - December 6, 2009 • Insight News

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Sending holiday greetings on the cheap Style on a dime

By Marcia Humphrey I am embarrassed to confess that there is one aspect of the holiday season that makes me feel a bit anxious, and I know that it will begin happening any day now. I am talking about receiving that first holiday greeting card in the mail from a friend or family member.

While I thoroughly enjoy hearing from my loved ones, my anxiety level usually increases slightly with

each greeting card that our family receives. Sounds crazy, right? (I agree-Help me Lord!)

You see, I am much more organized in my mind than I am in reality, and walking out to the curb to pick up yet another envelope containing a Christmas card, is a nagging reminder that I have not yet sent my own cards out. Well, I decided that this year would be different; no more stress for me.

Rather than buying expensive greeting cards for those on our list, I am adopting a new low-stress, low- budget, procrastination-proof Holiday Shout-Out letter. Yes, I’m going back to the old-school way of writing (read: typing) a short yearend letter to my loved ones.

to know that you are okay and that you survived 2009 —bumpy roads and all— and you should want them to know that you are thinking of them and praying for their prosperity in 2010.

Why do a shout-out letter??

Simple, you have been blessed this year! Your friends and family want

What should i talk about??

Remember the K.I.S.S.S. rule (keep it simple and short, smarty-

Where do i get supplies??

You probably have everything you need at home; paper, pen, or computer. If you want to upgrade from plain white paper, two of my favorite places to find pretty, colored paper on the cheap are at Dollar Tree ($1) and Big Lots (around $1-$2). If you own a printer you can make copies of your letter yourself, otherwise, Office Max, Kinko’s, and Office Depot are good options.

pants!). In your letter, talk about something meaningful to you, something uplifting and encouraging. Start your letter with something like: “The most important thing I learned this year was…” or “One of my favorite memories for 2009 was…” or even “One of the ways I made a positive impact on someone this year was…” or “I was faced with a large challenge in ’09 and this is how I overcame it…” In short, think of how you were impacted deeply in ’09 and share your experience.

Most likely your sharing will inspire your loved ones to do the same. Don’t bore your friends with two pages of endless details about your extremely perfect (or extremely imperfect) kids and don’t go on and on about what’s going wrong with your life. Take this time to focus on your blessings

of the year. Let your kiddos contribute to the letter, too. Let them complete one of the above sentences, or write a poem or draw a picture to include in the letter.

Finally, if you have a family picture that you’d like included in the letter, it’s easy to reduce the size and copy it right onto the letter.

When should I write the shoutout??

For those severe procrastinators, this concept should work for you!

Anywhere between now and January you can write a short Shout-Out. Because you create a customized letter on your computer (or on the public library computer) you can celebrate Christmas, Kwanza, New Years, etc., and there is not the stress of getting it out by December 25th!

What do you do with the holiday greeting cards that you receive when the season is over? Have you been saving them year after year, creating excess clutter or do you toss them after one or two weeks?

If you want to cut expenses this season, save some trees, and add that personal touch that has gone missing from our modern-day society, consider making your own custom Holiday Shout-Out. Your friends will appreciate your creativity and you will appreciate the value! Enjoy!

Marcia Humphrey is an interior decorator and home stager who specializes in achieving high style at low costs. A native of Michigan, she and her husband, Lonnie, have three children.

Make your kitchen a cozy delightful retreat When the weather outside is frightful, your cozy kitchen can become a delightful retreat from the holiday hustle and bustle. ,Tis the season, after all, to create new traditions and yummy yuletide comfort foods that will make friends and family think you’ve finally found grandma’s secret recipes!

And speaking of hidden secrets, these easy-to-make, easyto-bake holiday recipes share one of their own: all rely on quick and convenient frozen dough from your grocer’s freezer.

Using readily-available frozen cinnamon rolls, these Frosty Friends can be made in just minutes. Kids of all ages should love helping with this silly-fun, creative and extra tasty project.

Consider this smart recipe for

Christmas-cheery Cherry Kolachy Rolls. They’re surprisingly fast and simple. But they look fantastic and are sure to please.

Whoever you have over will relish the flavor and gooey goodness of these better-than-store-bought bakery treats.

For all you candy cane fans, go ahead and pair what you love with frozen dough to make deliciously-sweet Peppermint Twists. Of course they’re good fun, and you can fill up a basket full for a neighbor or friend in no time.

Holidays get busy. And hectic.

The convenience of frozen dough helps you bake up a wonderland of scrumptious recipes that may become new little traditions around your house.

Cherry Kolachy Rolls • 6 Rhodes Texas™ Rolls or 12 Rhodes™ Dinner Rolls, thawed but still cold • cherry pie filling • 1 cup powdered sugar • 1 tablespoon butter, melted • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla • 2-3 tablespoons milk • 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract Flatten each Texas roll or 2 dinner rolls combined into a 3-inch circle. Place circles on a large sprayed baking sheet. Cover with sprayed plastic wrap and let rise until double. Remove wrap. With fingertips press indentation in the center of each roll. Spoon in 1 tablespoon of pie filling or jam.

Bake immediately at 350°F for 15-20 minutes (during baking cycle add more filling if desired).

Remove from pan to cooling rack.

Combine powdered sugar, butter, vanilla, milk and lemon extract.

Mix well. Brush each roll lightly with icing while still warm. After they have cooled, drizzle with remaining icing.

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Insight News • November 30 - December 6, 2009 • Page 9

COMMENTARY We cannot sit idly by and watch our innocent children die

By Rev. Al Sharpton NNPA Columnist (NNPA) - For decades now, I have traveled across this nation to listen, learn and absorb the concerns and frustrations of the community. I’ve marched with victims of police brutality, consoled families who have viciously lost loved ones and called for transparency and proper judicial proceedings for those that have been wrongfully victimized by our system.

But after years of civil rights activism, and after years of countless troubling incidents, never before have I been as outraged as I am today. On November 16, a 15-year-old girl in the Bronx, NY was walking home from school when a stray

bullet struck her in the back of the head. The alleged shooter, described by mainstream media as a “baby-faced 16-year-old” is now held without bail, along with four others – all 23 and younger – who authorities say coerced the young shooter to pull the trigger.

Last month, a Decatur High School junior football varsity player in Atlanta was laid to rest after falling victim to a drive-by shooting. In Baton Rouge, LA, a 16-year-old was shot and killed as two ‘men’ struggled over a handgun in early October. The shooter in this case – a 22-yearold - is now charged with negligent homicide. And a few weeks ago, a Spelman College sophomore was hit and killed by a stray bullet while walking on campus. Sadly, the list of innocent victims appears to have no end in sight.

The level of gun usage and the epidemic of violence in communities across the country has hit an astronomical level.

According to the Violence Policy

ruin their own lives.

On November 23, National Action Network, along with community members from around the nation will led a first ever

The plight of violence in urban communities is horrendous, worrisome and simply out of control.

Center, firearms are the second most frequent cause of death overall for Americans aged 15-24.

If we are not fed up and outraged already, the time to stand up and do something is NOW. We cannot sit idly by and watch our innocent children die so senselessly. Nor can we run from the underlying issues that lead some young people to pick up a gun in the first place, and in turn,

National Day of Outrage. We simultaneously convened at 2 PM EST in cities like Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Atlanta, Philadelphia and many in between. As parents, aunts, uncles, cousins and more join together to honor their lost loved ones, concerned citizens, elected officials and community activists will call for an end to the unprecedented and frightening

national epidemic.

We all watched the graphic videotape of the beating death of 16-year-old Chicago Fenger High School honor student Derrion Albert. But what many may not realize is that this high school remains a ‘war zone’ where children simply seeking an education to advance themselves do not feel secure even in a classroom. How can we urge our kids to strive for higher achievement when we fail to provide them with the basic tools of development? And what can we expect for the future of the United States when our most precious citizens are arming themselves and engaging in warfare on streets in virtually every state.

Unfortunately, the excessive and exponentially growing outburst of violence is not

confined to children and teenagers. Last month, a 92year-old grandmother was watching TV inside her Bronx home when a stray bullet ended her fruitful life. The plight of violence in urban communities is horrendous, worrisome and simply out of control. It is our babies, sons, daughters, grandparents and loved ones that are losing in every sense of the word. I am outraged; the community is outraged. But together we can work to find a sustainable solution so that none of us will have to watch another horrific video, witness another tragic shooting or lose another precious soul. We must reclaim the value of life for the sake of our own lives.

Thanksgiving means lifting up each other

By Julianne Malveaux NNPA Columnist (NNPA) - The last five weeks of the year, the days beginning with Thanksgiving and moving through the New Year, are days when we all wind down. Some of us don’t want to admit it, citing business as usual. But the fact is that from the first thanksgiving party to the last holiday gift exchange, we have collectively decided that the year is over and we can’t do much about it.

This year is different from many others.

One in six Americans does not have a job.

One in four African Americans is unemployed. This means that our holiday parties must be muted by the challenge of acknowledging and supporting those who are impaired in our midst. It also means lifting up those who deserve the lift up,

those who have done such phenomenal things this year that they need a shout out.

I will lift up my sister friend Susan Taylor for her National Mentoring Cares Movement ad for the phenomenal love she sows into African American people as we grow, develop, and learn to heal from our hurt. As she crosses the country, she infuses her gentle spirit into the many ways we can embrace our futures. She is a force that must be loved, respected and appreciated.

I will lift up Dr. Boyce Watkins for his embrace of Heather Ellis, the young sister from Missouri who faced 15 years in jail for cutting a line.

Heather Ellis did what so many of us do – went to the store with a friend (cousin), took separate lines, and decided that whoever got up first would hook the other up. How did this turn into a racial farce of utter insanity? It would

take the people in Kenneth, MO to tell us. Here is what I know – Boyce Watkins spent time, effort, energy and money in rallying people around Heather Ellis. I am grateful for his activism and lift him up for his work.

I will lift up Donna Richardson Joyner, who has both embraced Bennett College for women and Black women around the globe in her positive and joyful commitment to healthy living. Thanks to Donna, we are doing work on growing a healthy garden and embracing healthy habits at Bennett, but more importantly, thanks to Donna, we all have a model of how to live and how to be.

I will lift up Blanche Williams and the National Black Women’s Town Hall and the many ways that Blanche is into hooking sisters up. Blanche’s mantra is “Embracing Greatness” and she is unselfish about that embrace. She is a blessing and a

lesson, a joy and a leader. I am so very excited about their work.

There are so very many more who deserve the lift up. And, there are so many who must be acknowledged as they struggle through these times. I am especially concerned by those who are marginalized by the notion of these holiday celebrations, marginalized by the

down.

I always find the end of the year poignant. We always have much to reflect on, much to celebrate. We lift up those who have assisted, accomplished, and moved us more aggressively to a better world. And, at the same time, we acknowledge those who have been tousled by our economy. We ask that all of us

As long as there are racial economic gaps, there is cause to work, challenge, and focus. reality that they have not much to celebrate. What do we celebrate through the storm? Mostly we celebrate that we are still here.

Still here? Still navigating, functioning, managing, holding it up. And we celebrate the fact that in the middle of the winddown, we are indeed winding

do the work we must do to provide analysis as we move forward. We wonder if we suffer from the paralysis of analysis.

At the end of the day, we know that the end-year act of winding down offer us an amazing possibility to lift up and respect our past and yet be challenged by

our present. We know that there are those whose contribution has been stellar; we know we all want to do more. We inhale this moment called the end of the year, appreciating the opportunity to wind down, looking forward to the challenge of winding back up.

As long as there are racial economic gaps, there is cause to work, challenge, and focus.

When the Black unemployment rate is nearly twice the white rate, when Black wealth is a tenth of white wealth, there is work to do.

For many the end of the year should be nothing more than a momentary respite. There is, still, much work to do.

Julianne Malveaux is President of Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, N.C. She can be reached at presbennett@bennett.edu.

Page 10 • November 30 - December 6, 2009 • Insight News

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Candidates must also possess expert level skills in word processing, spreadsheets and database management programs.

Salary is commensurate with education and experience.

Valid Driver's license required. EEO/AA Employer. Position open until filled. Women and minorities encouraged to apply. Submit all resumes to cbennett@saoic.org. No phone inquiries, please.

POLITICAL WRITER FREELANCE Insight News is looking for an enthusiastic and experienced political writer for a beat that includes covering high profile elected officials and the community events they sponsor — or a not so-well attended neighborhood or block club meeting. This is a freelance position. The perfect candidate is someone who is a selfstarter who can work in a fast-paced environment as well as produce news features, and jump on breaking stories when needed.

Strong writing skills are a must, as well as a proven track record connecting local/neighborhood issues to national/federal policy. Interested applicants should send a cover letter, resume and three to five writing samples to: Patricia Weaver, Director of Content, Insight News, PO BOX 581367, Minneapolis, MN 55411 or email patricia@insightnews. Please note "POLITICAL WRITER" in the subject line.

No phone calls or walk-ins, please.

Send Community Calendar information to us by: email, ben@insightnews.com, by fax: 612-588-2031, by phone: (612) 588-1313 or by mail: 1815 Bryant Ave. N. Minneapolis, MN 55411, Attn: Ben Williams. Free or low cost events preferred.

Events 2009 IBEW Holiday Lights in the Park – Now through Dec. 31 Daily Nov. 24 through Dec. 31.

Hours of Operation: 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm each day. Phalen Park in Saint Paul at 1615 Phalen Drive East.

Benjamin Franklin: In Search of a Better World – Now through Jul 4 Minnesota History Center, 345 Kellogg Blvd W., St. Paul. Nov. 27, 2009 through July 4, 2010. http://events.mnhs.org

We are looking for college students majoring in Sports Management, Business, Public Relations, Marketing Sales, Broadcasting and Event Planning. We need 20 or 25 interns working with us for a (minimum of 8 hours a week) on a part-time basis. Interns will gain valuable experience, and in most cases college credits.

Minneapolis North Boys Basketball League A 10 to 12 week program for boys and girls in grades K-6 There will be separate boys and girls teams in each grade level if there are significant registrations.

Games are scheduled to be played primarily on Sundays, 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., starting December 8, 2009. It may be necessary to also schedule an occasional evening or Sunday game. The season will end on February 28, 2010. For more information, registration or volunteering, contact Bo Powell Basketball, 1500 James Ave N., Minneapolis. 612-668-1717.

Interested Parties please send resume to: Minnesota Blizzards Attn: Internship Program 1161 Vierling Drive, Ste 161 Shakopee, MN 55379 Ph: 612-242-1909 Fax: 480-302-5813 ben@minnesotaBlizzards.com http://www.minnesotablizzards.com

Holiday Art Sale - Ongoing Dec. 5, 6, 12 & 13. Saturdays: 10am – 4pm. Sundays: 1pm – 4pm. All Nations Church, 1515 East 23rd St. Mpls. Original beadwork, jewelry, leatherwork,

ABA

Minnesota Blizzards Basketball The Minnesota Blizzards ABA Basketball Team is announcing a program for college Internships for the fall and winter. The program will consist of five teams of 5 interns each in the following areas: (1) Sales, (2) Basketball Operations. (3) Marketing (4) Public Relations (5) Business administration. Each team will have a leader and be given challenging assignments.

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fabric, soaps, perfumes & much more. Free to the public. For more info, call (715) 386-3100.

Exhibit Reception, ‘Inventive Women: Portraits of Scientists and Engineers from the University of Minnesota’ – Dec. 1 Minnesota History Center, 345 Kellogg Blvd W., St. Paul. Time: 5 to 8 p.m. Free. Phone: 651-2593000. This exhibit is offered in conjunction with “Ben Franklin: In Search of a Better World” on view concurrently through July 4, 2010, at the Minnesota History Center.

Planning your website – Dec. 2 Weds., Dec. 2., 9 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at University Bank, 200 University Ave. W., St. Paul.

Learn the basics of doing business on the internet including the purpose of the website, graphics design, system security and Search Engine Optimization.

To register go to the SCORE website www.score-stpaul.org or call 651-261-1429 for more info.

Free introductory classes on legal guardianship – Dec. 2 Weds., Dec. 2, 5 to 7 p.m., at Eastside Services, 1700 2nd St. N.E., Room 111, Mpls. Call 612781-6011 for directions. Mon., Dec. 7, 10 a.m. to noon, at the Hennepin County Library – Eden Prairie, 565 Prairie Center Drive, Eden Prairie. Call 952-847-5375 for directions.

To register, call 612-596-6631.

Sponsored by Hennepin County’s Human Services and Public Health Department.

A Morning at Blake – Dec. 3 Thurs., December 3, 9 – 11:30 a.m., Pre-kindergarten – Grade 5.

Wayzata Campus, 301 Peavey Lane, Wayzata All admissions and financial aid applications must be received by January 31, 2010. Prospective families are also invited to attend a financial aid workshop on Saturday, January 9 at 9 a.m. on Blake’s

Hopkins campus. information: www.blakeschool.org, 988-3420.

More (952)

Stories of Faith and Organizational Life – Dec. 3 Dec. 3, 6:00 - 9:00 pm. The interfaith program will include a light supper, a panel of organizational leaders talking about their personal experience the tensions between their faith and organizational pressures, and group discussion of the topic.

Reell Precision Manufacturing (1259 Willow Lake Blvd, St Paul, MN). RSVP required (http://faithandorganizations.eve ntbrite.com/ or 612-234-1122).

Free. Donations accepted.

Healthcare & Public Option: Cuba and the US Health debate - Dec. 3 Dec. 3, 6-9pm at Carlson School of Management, Rm. 1-147, West Bank Campus, U of MN (Address: 321 19th Ave. S, Mpls) www.minnesotacubacommittee. org Lake Wobegon Brass Band to Perform at Colonial Church of Edina – Dec. 4 Friday, Dec. 4, 2009, from 7 p.m.

– 9 p.m. at Colonial Church of Edina which is located at 6200 Colonial Way in Edina. Log on to www.familiesmovingforward.or g for more information.

Mn/DOT – 20 Class A Commercial Driving License Scholarships Important dates: Application Deadline: December 11, 2009 Selected candidates notified: December 30, 2009 Class dates: January 6, 2010 – Feb 3, 2010.

Location/Time for CDL Classes: Century College Transportation Training Center, 14386 Hudson Rd S, Afton, MN 55001. Monday – Friday 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more info, contact, for Minneapolis: Roosevelt Gaines, Minneapolis Urban League, 2100 Plymouth Avenue North,

Minneapolis, MN 55411. Tel: 612-302-3117; Fax: 612-5211444; EMAIL: rgaines@mul.org. And for St Paul: Abe Hassan, Merrick Community Services, 715 Edgerton Street, Saint Paul, MN 55130. Tel: 651-771-9339, Ext. 1004; Fax: 651-771-8465; EMAIL: ahassan@merrickcs.org.

ART AT RAMSEY - Dec. 5 Sat., Dec. 5, 2009, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Ramsey Junior High Gymnasiums, 1700 Summit Avenue, St. Paul. For online info: http://www.artistscircle.org Krewe de Walleye Presents: Dennis Stroughmatt and Morris Ardoin - Dec. 6 Zydeco Lesson with Flory Katz at 7:30 p.m.; Dance begins at 8:00 p.m. Half Time Rec,1013 Front Ave., St. Paul. 651-4888245. www.halftimecajun.com, www.krewedewalleye.org.

Occupation 101 – Dec. 6 Sunday December 6, 2009, 4:00 pm at Hennepin Methodist Church, 511 Groveland Ave. Mpls. Following the film there will be a panel discussion featuring local experts. For more information e-mail mn.to.gaza@gmail.com.

Joyous Jazz and Scrumptious Singing Christmas Concert – Dec. 6 Dec. 6, 3 pm, at Minnehaha UCC, 4001 38th Ave S, Mpls.

Tickets at the door: $15 adults, $8 children under 12. Canned food donations to the Minnehaha Food Shelf are welcome.

Scrooge in Tha Hood “A Classic Folk Tale with an Urban Twist - Ongoing 12/07, 12/08, 12/09, 12/10, 12/11, 12/12, 12/13 (all 7:00pm; December 12th 2:00pm & 7:00pm) at Christ Church International 3015 13th Avenue S. Mpls. For more information, visit

www.scroogeinthehood.com Christmas Lunch for Seniors – Dec. 10 11:00 am - 2:30 pm at Salem Covenant Church, 2655 - 5th Street NW (just south of 694 on Silver Lake Road), New Brighton. Free, but must RSVP

by December 3 to attend. After you eat, you will enjoy a concert

by DeCantus, an a capella choral group who will be dressed in Victorian costumes while they sing. RSVP to Becky Cole, 612781-3630 or email OutreachNE@yahoo.com Holiday train event supports Eastside food shelves – Dec. 12 Sat., Dec. 12, 8 p.m. at Shoreham Yards, 2800 Central Ave. NE, Mpls. For more information about the 2009 Holiday Train Event supporting food shelves at East Side Neighborhood Services call 612.787.4019 or visit www.esns.org.

2009 Holiday Train event supports Eastside Neighborhood Services – Dec. 12 Sat., Dec. 12, 8 p.m. at Shoreham Yard, 2800 Central Ave. NE, Minneapolis. This event is free and open to the public. For more information about the 2009 Holiday Train, call 612.787.4019 or visit www.esns.org.

5th Annual Camden Music School Holiday Concert, SingAlong and Bake Sale – Dec. 12 Saturday, December 12, 3-4pm, Luther Memorial Lutheran Church, 3751 Sheridan Ave. N., Minneapolis.

Free.

More information: 612-618-0219 or www.camdenmusicschool.com.

Where’s Claudia? / ?Donde Esta Claudia? - Dec. 12 Show times: 10 AM & Noon.

Make-n-Take workshops: 11 AM. Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theatre, 1500 E. Lake Street, Mpls, 612-721-2535, www.hobt.org.

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Insight News • November 30 - December 6, 2009 • Page 11

SPORTS Notre Dame still paying for wrongdoing Mr T’s Sports Report

By Ryan T. Scott ryan@insightnews.com The University of Notre Dame football program has been treated as an entity that is above its gridiron peers. With 11 national championships in their history, seven before 1950, Notre Dame has earned their place for consideration of greatness in a college football program. But whereas most college football programs play within a set division (i.e. the Gophers belong to the Big Ten Division), Notre Dame is one of the few teams listed as an Independent.

Over their stadium sits an impressive, polished gold dome and religious likeness referred to as “Touchdown Jesus”. And if you haven’t noticed, Notre Dame is the only team to have its own television network dedicated to broadcasting their home games; the little network they broadcast through is called NBC. Yes, indeed, the Fighting Irish (Notre Dames mascot) have a special place in the annals of collegiate football.

Yet over the last decade the Fighting Irish have lost a lot of their scrap.

Last week a television pundit suggested that their religious image above the stadium should be referred to as “Field Goal Jesus” to compliment the school’s less accomplished recent performances on the football field.

Notre Dame has had three

api.ning.com

“...over the last decade the Fighting Irish have lost a lot of their scrap” permanent coaches since their last great coach, Lou Holtz, left in 1997. Each of those coaches has achieved a winning record that falls somewhere in the .500 range. Two of those coaches were allowed to continue their quest for national collegiate greatness for a fair and full five years. After five years a coach has clearly accumulated enough of his own chosen high school recruits to where the product on the field fully represents what that particular coach has brought to the institution. Bob Davie and Charlie Weis are the two coaches who were afforded those five year stints.

Sandwiched in-between Davie and Weis was head coach Tyrone Willingham. I’ll go ahead and mention now that Tyrone Willingham was the first African American head coach in the history of this storied University. Willingham was

fired after three seasons while toting a winning percentage equal to that of his predecessor Bob Davie.

Weis, who currently sits terminally attached to the proverbial chopping block, has a winning percentage of .574 over his five years as head coach. The case against Davie felt like “Well, it’s just time.” The case against Willingham was that he lost big in a few games against rivals, though his record shows that his Notre Dame team did at least beat the teams that Notre Dame traditionally beats, like Navy.

The case against Charlie Weis seems more like “darnit we tried coach, but I don’t know what else we can do…we’d love to keep you.”…and they mean that.

Both Weis and Willingham came out of the gates with impressive 1st seasons. Weis uniquely, and oddly, was

immediately offered a contract extension on his 6-year contract making it a 10-year contract.

The supremely odd thing about it was that this extension was given far before the first season was near completion. Perhaps the University wanted to help Weis by comforting recruits with the issue of coaching stability (a typical strategy of Universities looking to comfort recruits that their coach won’t leave soon). Weis’ first season was 9-3; Willingham’s first season was 10-2. No contract extension for Willingham.

Willingham suffered five brutal defeats of over 30 points during his three years, though it should be mentioned that three of those loses came at the hands of the University of Southern California (USC) during one of their most historic stretches of dominance. USC hosted quite a few beat downs like that during that period of time, some of which came in national championship games, so the Notre Dame losses were commonplace for most teams facing USC in those days. As for Weis, he managed to break the string of 43 victories over Navy and post the University’s all time worst record of 3-9; these losses came during Weis’ 3rd year…the same year Willingham was fired.

All three of Notre Dame’s recent head coaches did a pretty poor job by Notre Dame standards of success.

Obviously, two of the three were given a little more wiggle room than the other. Perhaps “wiggle room” is a bad term; we’ll go with “freedom” instead. In the words of Da Mayor from the movie Do the Right Thing “Always do the right thing.”

liberalevangelical.org

“Last week a television pundit suggested that their religious image above the stadium should be referred to as “Field goal Jesus” to compliment the schools less accomplished recent performances on the football field.”

Page 12 • November 30 - December 6, 2009 • Insight News

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