PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID MINNEAPOLIS MN PERMIT NO. 32468
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
The Insight News family is thankful for your continued support. We wish you a wonderful and safe holiday season, and a prosperous New Year.
December 21 - December 27, 2009 • MN Metro Vol. 35 No. 51 • The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • www.insightnews.com
Demanding our share: Ellison, CBC threaten boycott By Hazel Trice Edney NNPA Editor-in-Chief WASHINGTON (NNPA) Decrying willful failure to acknowledge the crippled economy’s devastation to Black communities, U.S. Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN) joined Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) members demanding immediate action to include Black businesses in financial rescue and recovery initiatives. Ellison said he and CBC members are “receiving the calls and emails everyday” asking “when’s our turn?” He said business and institution leaders are demanding Congress and the Administration take note of hyper-crisis ravishing Black America. “We need real jobs programs. We need something to help small, minority businesses. We need to know that there is a vibrant, historic and very strong African American business community here
in the United States and in my state of Minnesota. It really struck me that every single industry is being severely impacted,” Ellison said in an interview with the Black Press of America. Ellison, one of 10 Black members of the powerful House Finance Committee, was applauded this week by the Black Press and Black leaders nationally for boldly boycotting a committee meeting in order to force a $4 billion allocation to benefit the Black community. CBC committee members are saying they plan to escalate protests if lawmakers continue to ignore the suffering of their constituents, including advertising discrimination against Black newspapers. “We’re out of the box, we’re full speed ahead and we are not going to sit back and watch our communities suffer in silence,” said U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA), the ranking Congressional Black Caucus Member on the Committee, who led the December 2 boycott.
Chamber salutes Comcast for community outreach, investment
PAGE 2 The 10 Congressional Black Caucus Members of Congress who sit on the House Financial Services Committee are, from left, Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II (Mo.), Rep. Gwen Moore (Wis.), Rep. Mel Watt (N.C.), Rep. Al Green (Texas), Rep. Andre Carson (Ind.), Rep. Maxine Waters (Calif.), Rep. David Scott (Ga.), Rep. Gregory Meeks (N.Y.), Rep. Keith Ellison (Minn.), and Rep. William Lacy Clay, Jr. (Mo.). “The 10 African American members of the Financial Services Committee have cooperated with the leadership, we have cooperated with the administration, we have supported the bail out and now
we’re saying, what do we get for all of this cooperation? What are we delivering to our communities? And the answer is little or nothing,” said Waters. Describing horrid conditions in
their districts that clearly illustrate disparate suffering in the African American communities, each of the 10 members - in separate interviews
CBC TURN TO
9
Valeria Silva
Mission: Peace
takes leadership of St Paul Public Schools
in the Horn of Africa By Basha Saed African News Journal, Publisher Part 2 of 2 Sponsored by African News Journal, Eritrean Forum in Minnesota, and organized by Confederation of the Somali Community, Eritrean Forum and Gambella Relief Organization, The Horn of Africa Peace Forum examined pathways to peace in the Horn of Africa region and explored ways of empowering the grass root and civil society so that a lasting peace can be based on understanding and trust. Somalia experience: What the rest can learn Dr. Ahmed Samatar, Dean of the Institute for Global Citizenship at Macalester College, gave a stern
PAGE
warning to those in attendance: “I am warning you, Horn of Africa Africans, please, listen to me carefully, accept the principle of non-violence and you have a chance to survive in the Horn.” According to Samatar, Somali people “confront these elements” which can make for a very catastrophic environment. He said some Somalis are aware of this while other’s aren’t. The elements are, said Samatar, 1) Loss of Sense of Peoplehood (nothing else we have in common except we look alike, talk alike and meet in places like coffee shops); 2) the death of national institutions (lack the rule of law) and the bad odor of leadership (the absence of a leader capable of facing the current challenges through legitimacy, with wisdom and skills). “With those scenarios, I think we are
AFRICA TURN TO
8
Suluki Fardan
From left, Lulu Flores, President of the National Women’s Political Caucus, Tare-Sheika Larkins, Amirah Ellison, and Denia Larkins. Ellison announced the creation of Children for Change a nonprofit she and her colleagues launched to expand civic engagement among young youths.
The women’s equality imperative By Lydia Schwartz Contributing Writer The Minnesota Women’s Political Caucus’ (MNWPC) 31st Annual Luncheon, “Walking on Broken Glass…Shattering the Stereotype, Why Women’s Equality is still a Cause for Today,” was held on Thursday, Dec, 10, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in St. Paul. The MNWPC is a multipartisan organization comprised of members from across the state who are dedicated to identifying,
recruiting, training, and supporting pro-choice women for elected and appointed public office. They seek to be an expert resource for the women of Minnesota and women candidates supporting women’s issues. The MNWPC’s ultimate goal is equality and equal representation on all levels of government. The luncheon was a festive affair that included a poetry reading by St. Paul’s first Poet Laureate Carol Connolly, honored by St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman in 2006, whose wife was in
attendance. The event even included singing “Happy Birthday” to Ramsey County Attorney Susan Gaertner, led by the MNWPC Executive Director Tonia Johnson. Johnson also pointed out that the MNWPC is heading a bill that will mandate paid sick days which includes if a parent needs to stay home when a child is ill. In attendance were men and women who have been champions of women’s issues in politics:
LUNCHEON TURN TO
By Lydia Schwartz Contributing Writer President Obama
Obama receives Nobel Peace Prize By Gloria J. BrowneMarshall; Special to The Black Press OSLO, NORWAY—The overcast skies did little to temper the excitement accompanying the arrival of President Barack Obama in Norway. His helicopter landed
on the roof of Norway’s Opera House. Traffic stopped. Police cars filled the streets. Usually staid Norwegians rushed to their windows to witness the Obama’s descent into Scandinavia with its history of Vikings and sea travel. Over 92 million Kroner was spent on security alone for this latest
OBAMA TURN TO
3
Morgan Freeman stars as Nelson Mandela in inspirational historical saga
PAGE 5
7
Pawlenty burdens cities, counties State Representatives expect the 2010 Minnesota Legislative Bonding Session, starting in February, to be intense and lively as the state faces a $1 billion shortfall and a gubernatorial election in November. Several State Senators and Representatives are planning on running for governor, including the Speaker of the House, Margaret Anderson Keliher. Almost $1 billion had been borrowed in the 2009 Regular Session. Now the Legislature must contend with a Capital Improvement Budget and make major cuts to deal with the deficit. According to State Rep. Bobby Joe Champion (DFL-58B), “The deficit could have been as high as $4.4 billion if we didn’t have the cushion from federal stimulus funding…We have to make sure it is used appropriately and adheres
“Do Good. Live Well.” campaign encourages social responsibility
PAGE
State Rep. Bobby Joe Champion (DFL-58B)
State Rep. Jeff Hayden (DFL–61B)
to federal requirements.” He said that the biggest issue this year is “jobs; getting Minnesotans back to work.” Even though this is a lameduck year for Gov. Tim Pawlenty, he has promised to veto any new revenue bill in what many say is an effort to preserve his image for his conservative friends across the country. According to State Rep.
Jeff Hayden (DFL–61B), the problem with a governor being able to say, “‘I didn’t raise any taxes,’ is that some else had to.” When the State denies funding for certain projects, the financial burden is then placed on counties and cities, which are forced to
BUDGET TURN TO
4
2
7
MN Vikings preparing for the Playoffs
PAGE 11
Page 2 • December 21 - December 27, 2009 • Insight News
http://insightnews.com
BUSINESS Keep looking: No winter break for job seekers Plan your career
By Julie Desmond julie@insightnews.com Holiday preparation checklist: wrap gifts, plan parties, eat sweets, oh, and find a job. If you are unemployed over the holidays, you might think this is a slow time for hiring. You might be tempted to take a break from your networking, applying, and interviewing routine. You might be making a mistake. At year end, a
few critical stars align that can make the holidays an ideal time to look for new work. First, most companies create an annual budget, with a certain dollar amount designated for salaries per department or branch. This year every company has saved money by laying off workers, holding back on raises and otherwise spending less on staffing. Some department heads get to year-end and realize they have staffing money to burn or headcount allowance to account for. This is where you come in, ready to be hired. Head hunters know that the last week in December is typically fabulous for staffing. While this year is anything but typical, it is possible that in some companies, some last minute hiring will be in the works.
Secondly, the holiday season is famous for getting people out of their shells – and out of their offices. Job seekers will have the opportunity to stand at the bar with people they do not ordinarily mingle with, including relatives, neighbors and those dear, old friends you only see once a year. Of course, you will refrain from passing out your resume along with the eggnog, but you can use these encounters to politely inquire about everyone else, asking, What do you do? Showing genuine interest in someone else’s work may lead to a follow-up conversation. Don’t ruin a good party by sharing the details of your lay-off on the spot, but if it makes sense, ask permission to call this person next week to find out more about his or her job/company/industry.
Finally, if everyone else thinks hiring takes a holiday break, your chances of rising to the top of the pile of applicants improves exponentially. While many people do take vacation at the end of the year, those left behind often have a more relaxed attitude toward their day and may be willing to take a phone call or even agree to an informational interview that they would ordinarily be too busy to bother with. Keep looking, continue networking and don’t give up. You just might be able to give yourself the gift of a new job for the holidays. Julie Desmond is Director of Career Planning Resources for Help Wanted! Workshop. Write to julie@insightnews.com.
www.flickr.com/photos/sfgal/3951984042/sizes/l/
Chamber salutes Comcast for community outreach, investment On December 2, Comcast received the honored company recognition at the annual Minnesota Keystone Program Luncheon, hosted by the Minneapolis Chamber of Commerce. The Keystone Program honors companies that donate 2% or 5% of pre-tax earnings to help meet the needs of our communities and contribute to our area’s outstanding quality of life. Each company also participated in a live interview on stage with emcee Angela Davis, news anchor on WCCO-TV. The
discussion included comments about our company’s founder, Ralph Roberts, and his vision to build a company with a commitment to serve the communities where it does business. “We are so honored to receive the award,” said Bill Wright, region senior vice president. “I’m so proud of our Twin Cities team. Your dedication to supporting those in need is an inspiration not only for me, but for the community at large.”
Budget
contribution to the tax base. We need to make sure those highincome earners pay their fair share, but not more, and that everyone contributes what they can.” He added that, “We’re all in this together as Minnesotans and we need to use these challenging times not to attack each other but to come together.” General Assistance Medical Care (GAMC) will be another big issue this session since the
From 1 raise property taxes. Hayden said that this creates a situation where a “select group of Minnesotans, property owners, has to pick up the tab to cover basic [government] services.” Champion said Minnesotans should “return to the idea of fair taxes where everyone makes their
Courtesy of Comcast
Mary Beth Schubert, Vice President of Corporate Affairs, Comcast Twin Cities Region, discusses Comcast’s community investment initiatives with Angela Davis, event emcee. program will be eliminated March 1, 2010 and everyone enrolled will be transferred to MinnesotaCare. Champion said he hopes that “we can get this safety net back in play and extend it for an additional 16 months. The erosion to MinnesotaCare is unsustainable…We need to protect what is already allotted for health care coverage.” Local hospitals face millions of dollars in funding cuts and
Hayden said he is “very concerned with getting health care to those who need it most without bankrupting hospitals.” The House is hoping to provide Minnesotans with coverage for preventative care, mental health services, disability services, and chemical dependency and intervention services. Hayden said Minnesotans can also expect a ‘Bill of Tenants’ Rights’ in effort to revamp tenant
Mary Beth accepts the award on behalf of Comcast. With Mary Beth is Angela Davis, WCCO-TV news anchor and event emcee, along with Todd Klingel, President & CEO, Minneapolis Regional Chamber of Commerce. and landlord laws that tend to favor landlords. Creating equal rights for both will address the issue of “tenants being evicted because they didn’t realize the landlord couldn’t pay the mortgage,” he said. Child homelessness is another hot issue in which Hayden plans to be heavily involved. He hopes to build a coalition between the Early Childhood Caucus, out-ofhome placement programs, and
the public school system to diminish the number of children in foster care. Hayden pointed out that “There is a direct impact that not having a safe place to live has on being able to learn in school…Very young children are most at risk and getting them into a healthy environment early is a precursor to having a greater outcome in school.”
http://insightnews.com
Obama From 1 Nobel Laureate. Obama would remain in the city for only twenty-four short hours. Long enough to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize and deliver the speech to explain why he should receive it. The evening before the ceremony, African-Americans who travelled from Baltimore, New York City, Texas, Oklahoma and Hawaii for the ceremony mingled with African American residents of Oslo who were joined by AfricanScandinavians at a restaurant in downtown Oslo. It is a gathering of the tribe. Invitations came by word of mouth, email, and chance. The beat of traditional drums blended with guitar as new friendships were made. Every conversation came back to Barack Obama. Viewpoints were unanimous regarding pride in a Black American president but mixed concerning his selection for the coveted Peace award. “It was a political decision,” said Carl Proctor, a dredlocked artist originally from New York City. He has lived in Norway for over 20 years. “The [Nobel] committee wanted to bring him here and that’s why they chose him for the award.” Pat Davis, a real estate agent from Maryland, disagreed. “This is the right time and he is the right person for this award,” she said. Their debate was more like a discussion among relatives around a Sunday dinner table. Some view Obama’s selection as premature but a motivation to continue a path toward peace. Others criticize the Nobel Committee for selecting the Commander-inChief of a country currently involved in two wars with a peace prize. Few examine
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 Alaina L. Lewis Rashida McKenzie Ryan T. Scott Lydia Schwartz Stacey Taylor 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.
Insight News • December 21 - December 27, 2009 • Page 3 whether the criticism is racially motivated. Some view Obama’s selection as premature but a motivation to continue a path toward peace. Others criticize the Nobel Committee for selecting the Commander-inChief of a country currently involved in two wars with a peace prize. Few examine whether the criticism is racially motivated. However, the fact remains that America is involved in wars with Iraq and Afghanistan; these are not traditional conflicts. Both
countries are working with their American “enemy” to defeat an insurgent force within their borders. Alfred Nobel was one of the wealthiest men in the world; he gained his massive wealth from war. He created explosives. Yet, he created a prize for peace to be bestowed on a person who increases fraternity between nations. Given this, Barack Obama is the first sitting American President to travel to meet with the leaders of the Arab world while orchestrating the closing of prisons at
Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Obama is the proponent of a promising health care initiative —the progress of which is being watched around the world. Under Barack Obama’s stewardship, America’s domestic financial meltdown, which threatened to devastate economies globally has slowed. Obama has met with leaders in Africa, Europe, and Asia. The President received the Nobel Prize at Oslo City Hall. The room has marble floors with walls over 100 feet high covered in murals depicting the
history of Norway in bright pastel colors. Trumpeters dressed in traditional velvet outfits heralded the entry of Barack Obama. With him were King Harald and Queen Sonja of Norway and Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg and his wife. Obama moved among royalty with his traditional athletic gait and calm composure. Thorbjorn Jagland, chair of the Nobel Prize committee, explained in Norwegian and English the process for selecting a recipient and the reasoning behind Barack Obama’s selection.
President Obama sat listening intently, legs crossed, wearing a black suit, white shirt, and stormy grey tie. Finally, the introductions ended. Musical selections, both classical and contemporary, came to a close. Michelle Obama sat on the front row, concern etched across her face. With history in hand and in mind, Barack Obama approached the podium. At first, his speech was stilted. His hands shook slightly as he OBAMA TURN TO 5
Page 4 • December 21 - December 27, 2009 • Insight News
http://insightnews.com
EDUCATION Valeria Silva takes leadership of Saint Paul Public Schools The Saint Paul Public Schools Board of Education last week approved a contract to have Valeria Silva serve as the District’s Superintendent effective Wednesday, December 16. “This has been a collaborative and productive negotiation process and Ms. Silva’s leadership and commitment to Saint Paul Public Schools is clear,” said Board Chair Kazoua Kong-Thao. “This bodes well for a productive and successful relationship between the Board and
Superintendent Silva. We are fully ready to support her leadership and are anxious for her to begin her term as superintendent, which is why we asked that she begin effective December 16, 2009.” Silva said that she is glad the negotiation process is complete. “Now I can get down to the work of leading Saint Paul Public Schools for at least the next three years while we all continue our work of providing a premier education for every student,” Silva said. “I look forward to
showing that, as a leader, I hold myself to the same expectations that I ask of the staff and organization.”
Officer. Prior to that assignment, she was Director of English Language Learner Programs, Assistant Principal at Dayton’s
“Now I can get down to the work of leading Saint Paul Public Schools for at least the next three years while we all continue our work of providing a premier education for every student,” Silva has served in a variety of roles at SPPS, most recently serving as Chief Academic
Bluff Elementary, Principal at Adams Spanish Immersion School and Coordinator of
Spanish Immersion Program / Curriculum. She has also spent time as a Specialist for Standards and Accommodations for the Minnesota Department of Education. Silva holds B.A. degrees from St. Cloud State University and Pontifica University of Chile and M.A. and ED.S. degrees from the University of Minnesota. She also is a recent graduate of the prestigious Broad Superintendent’s Academy.
Valeria Silva to serve as the District’s Superintendent
Too many are opining that too many people go to college By Julianne Malveaux NNPA Columnist (NNPA) - A had the participating on NPR attendance.
week or so ago, I privilege of in a conversation about college Sparked by a
successfully navigate college attendance. Marty Nemko says it is a cost-benefit thing. Sandy Baum says that everyone should have opportunity and access. Nobody mentions race, but I think it is the elephant in the room. Too many white folks are opining that too many people go to college, but their
All in all, it seems that college attendance and graduation are value propositions for our society. conversation in the Chronicle of Higher Education, a group of “experts” were opining that too many people are going to college. Too many? Conservative and racially biased Charles Murray (author of The Bell Curve) thinks that too few high school students have the cognition to
kids are in college. So do they really mean that too many Black folks go to college? Are their objections really about reinforcing a class system? Here is what we know about the benefits that come from college attendance: • College graduates have lower unemployment rates than
those who did not graduate from college. • College graduates have higher lifetime earning than those who did not graduate from college. • College graduates are more likely to vote, and to be civically involved than those who did not graduate from college. • College graduates are more likely to contribute to philanthropic causes and to volunteer than those who did not graduate from college. All in all, it seems that college attendance and graduation are value propositions for our society. Of course, the data I cite are average data, which means that everyone has a Diddy story of the high school grad or college dropout who made good, gave back, and all that. By and
www.flickr.com/photos/alphakappa/15199315/sizes/o/
large, though, college attendance and graduation are worthy goals for our society to
encourage. At the same time, we have done poorly in fully encouraging college attendance and graduation. Forty percent of those 55-64 have either an AA or a BA degree, which means that the United States has the highest rate of college graduation for that age group of any country in the world. Fast forward 30 years and still 40 percent of 25-34 year olds have either an AA or BA degree. This means that our ability to produce college graduates has not improved in 30 years! While we are first for 55-64 year olds, we are tenth for 2534 year olds. Canada, North Korea, and Spain are among the countries that top our college attendance for young people. They are investing in their educational systems, while we are ignoring ours. To be sure, there are some young people who are simply not ready for college. But there have been too many barriers to the college attendance of African American students, both historically and contemporaneously. Historically Black colleges mainly exist because white folk excluded us from matriculation. Even today, there are students who could not attend college but for the nurturing and remediation that comes with HBCU attendance. My NPR colleagues said that students who are at the bottom of their high school
classes are among those who should not go to college. But many in the bottom half of their classes are only there because of the poor quality of education that is delivered in inner city high schools. Many students come damaged and with educational deficiencies but are able to remedy their deficiencies with special programs that bring them up to speed. I don’t think we should write off a single student, no matter where she fell in her high school distribution. Most young people who are willing to learn can learn if they are enthusiastically encouraged. This is the HBCU story. I bristle at conversations that speak of restricting access to college, especially when the conversation is not viewed through a racial lens. The fact is that college opens doors for young people, and many young people of color need doors opened for them. If there are too many people going to college, there are not too many Black people. I bristle at the notion that we would restrict college access when all evidence suggests that education not only transforms individual lives, but also can transform our world. Julianne Malveaux is President of Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, North Carolina. She can be reached at presbennett@bennett.edu
http://insightnews.com
Insight News • December 21 - December 27, 2009 • Page 5
AESTHETICS
Morgan Freeman stars as Nelson Mandela in inspirational historical saga By Kam Williams Film review kam@insightnews.com When Nelson “Madiba” Mandela (Morgan Freeman) became President of South Africa, an important aspect of his mission was to help his fellow citizens develop a collective consciousness in the wake of the dismantling of Apartheid. This was to be no mean feat, for that de jure system of segregation had strictly enforced color lines which had kept Blacks and whites apart and at odds for decades. Furthermore, the nation had just finished a bloody civil war which left both groups very suspicious of each other’s motivations. Whites worried about how they would suddenly be treated as a minority, while Blacks were primarily concerned about improving their lot in life after
Obama From 3 spoke of a just war, more attainable peace, and the recognized sense of selfdefense. Then, he became centered and that recognized cadence returned. From his speech, it is clear that Obama does not strive to be Martin Luther King, Jr. or Mahatma Gandhi. His pragmatic optimism mirrors Ralph Bunche, the first African American to receive the prize. His speech provides a further glimpse into the man behind the presidency. He is a traditionalist who refuses to follow a predetermined path, unless he believes in it. After the ceremony, a noticeably relieved President Obama and Michelle walked
having suffered second-class status for generations on end. Although Mandela himself had endured extreme hardships at the hands of the Apartheid regime, including 27 years of brutal incarceration as a political prisoner, he was determined to govern impartially, seeking to balance Black aspirations with white fears. Then, in 1995, with the country set to host the Rugby World Cup Championship, he seized on the idea of using the event to unite the people by encouraging everyone to rally around the Springboks, the South Africa national team. So, ignoring the skepticism of his closest advisors, Mandela announced that, “Reconciliation starts here!” This is the point of departure of Invictus, a combination sports saga and historical drama directed by the legendary Clint Eastwood. The film co-stars Morgan Freeman, who disappears
imperceptibly into his role as elder statesman Mandela, opposite Matt Damon who perfected an Afrikaner accent in portraying Francois Pienaar, the captain of the Springboks. The movie is based on the best seller Playing the Enemy: Nelson Mandela and the Game That Made a Nation but takes its title from William Ernest Henley’s classic poem containing the immortal lines: “In the fell clutch of circumstance… I am the master of my fate; I am the captain of my soul.” A critical component of Mandela’s plan involved inspiring Pienaar and his teammates to embrace the motto “One team, one country!” Still, a slogan alone would not be enough, which meant Mandela also needed the Springboks to rise to the occasion and prevail in the tournament, if his novel notion were to take hold and sweep across the land. This is why he brought them on an outing to the
infamous Robben Island, sharing those memorable lines from “Invictus” which had sustained him during his incarceration in a dank prison cell there. The movie works better when recounting such poignant, personal interludes which reveal Mandela’s complicated psyche than during the scenes recreating rugby matches staged in Ellis Park Stadium. Unfortunately, Invictus focuses far more on the latter than the former, thereby subtly attributing South Africa’s critical turn towards racial reconciliation more to a fairlyformulaic, sporting exploits than to the wise insights of a sage leader who envisioned forgiveness as the only path to a lasting peace. “The rainbow nation starts here!” Very Good (3 stars) Rated PG-13 for PG-13 for brief profanity. Running time: 134 minutes
http://invictusmovie.warnerbros.com/#/Photos
Morgan Freeman stars as Nelson Mandela in inspirational historical saga
side-by-side behind the royal entourage surrounded by applause. That evening the couple stood on the balcony of the Grand Hotel as have all Nobel Laureates in past years. The crowd of thousands holding fiery torches and shouting blessings and praise is the largest in Norway’s history. Beautifully dressed and smiling, the Obamas waved to the joyous crowd albeit behind bullet-proof glass. Gloria J. Browne-Marshall is a freelance journalist, associate professor at John Jay College of the City University of New York and founder/director of The Law and Policy Group, Inc. She is also the author of Race, Law, and American Society: 1607 to Present.
Ernest Marshall
Ernest Marshall
Page 6 • December 21 - December 27, 2009 • Insight News
http://insightnews.com
HEALTH Public urged to follow American Cancer Society’s guidelines Due to recent public discussions about mammograms and the time table women should follow - and the apparent confusion these discussions have created, the American Cancer Society is issuing a reminder about the Society’s screening guidelines for several cancers. This reminder is important due to the evidence that continues to show the positive impact screenings have in several areas. In the U.S. death rates from breast cancer in women have been declining since 1990, due in large
part to early detection by mammography screening and improvements in treatment. Cervical cancer incidence and mortality rates have decreased 67% over the past three decades with most of the reduction attributed to the Pap test, which detects cervical cancer and precancerous lesions. Early screening for colorectal cancer can identify and remove precancerous abnormalities preventing cancer altogether. Our general guidelines are as follows:
Breast cancer For women in their 20s and 30s, it is recommended that clinical breast examination (CBE) be part of a periodic health examination, preferably at least every three years. Women aged 40 and over should continue to receive a clinical breast examination as part of a periodic health examination, preferably annually. Women should begin annual mammography at age 40. Colon and rectal cancer Beginning at age 50, both men and women at average risk for developing colorectal cancer should use one of several screening tests available. The tests that are designed to find both early cancer and polyps are preferred if these tests are available to you and you are willing to have one of these more invasive tests. Talk to your doctor about which test is best for you.
Prostate cancer Health care providers should discuss the potential benefits and limitations of prostate cancer early detection testing with men and offer the PSA (ProstateSpecific Antigen) blood test and the DRE (Digital Rectal Examination) annually, beginning at age 50, to men who are at average risk of prostate cancer, and who have a life expectancy of at least 10 years. The American Cancer Society does not support routine testing for prostate cancer at this time. The Society does believe that health care professionals should discuss the potential benefits and limitations of prostate cancer early detection testing with men before any testing begins. Cervical cancer Cervical cancer screening should begin approximately three years after a woman begins having vaginal intercourse, but no later
Flight to the North Pole Minnesota-based Sun Country Airlines partnered with United Way and Big Brothers Big Sisters to give 90 children, ages 5-12, a unique holiday experience.
The airlines welcomed the children to the Humphrey Airport last Tuesday, where they boarded a Sun Country Boeing 737, for a “Flight to the North Pole.”
than 21 years of age. Screening should be done every year with conventional Pap tests or every two years using liquid-based Pap tests. Testing may be done at a longer interval after a pattern of normal tests has been established, and may in later years be stopped if certain criteria are met. These guidelines can be viewed in greater detail by going to www.cancer.org/guidelines. The American Cancer Society combines an unyielding passion with nearly a century of experience to save lives and end suffering from cancer. As a global grassroots force of more than three million volunteers, the American Cancer Society fights for every birthday threatened by every cancer in every community. The organization save lives by helping people stay well by preventing cancer or detecting it early; helping people get well by being
there for them during and after a cancer diagnosis; by finding cures through investment in groundbreaking discovery; and by fighting back by rallying lawmakers to pass laws to defeat cancer and by rallying communities worldwide to join the fight. As the nation’s largest nongovernmental investor in cancer research, contributing nearly $3.4 billion, the American Cancer Society turns what it know about cancer into action. As a result, more than 11 million people in America who have had cancer and countless more who have avoided it will be celebrating birthdays this year.
Employees of Sun Country including pilots, flight attendants and agents greeted the children with holiday cheer. On-board activities included singing holiday carols and writing letters to Santa, as they kept watch for Santa and his reindeer. A meal was provided
by Sky Food Catering. Following the “flight” the children were greeted by Santa who gave them gifts donated by Sun Country employees. The Metropolitan Airport Commission donated the funding to cover all airport fees.
To learn more about us or to get help, call us anytime, day or night, at 1-800-227-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.
http://insightnews.com
Insight News • December 21 - December 27, 2009 • Page 7
Luncheon From 1
Jonathan Chapman
UnitedHealthcare Volunteer Jeanne Gosselin gives Lijia Brown a gift as part of the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities AdoptA-Family program while Lijia’s brother, Keyshawn, plays with Nordy, the Minnesota Wild mascot. The Adopt-A-Family event is part of UnitedHealthcare’s “Do Good. Live Well.” social responsibility campaign which encourages employees to volunteer in their communities.
City Council members, Park and Recreation Board members, Board of Estimate and Taxation members, Minnesota Senators and aides, Minnesota House Members and aides, and many other distinguished members of the MNWPC. The Mistress of Ceremonies was Lulu Flores, President of the National Women’s Political Caucus, who celebrates 2009 as the 89th anniversary of the addition of the 19th Amendment to the US Constitution, which gave women the right to vote. Flores also noted, “We’re still fighting for equal pay and access to reproductive healthcare.” Toni Carter, Ramsey County Commissioner (District 4) and the MNWPC Board Director, also spoke at the luncheon. Carter was first elected in 2005. Prior to her election, she served as a member and chair of the St. Paul Board of Education. Carter was a cofounder and the executive director of the community-based nonprofit organization ARTS-Us, which
provides urban youth with opportunities in the arts, environmental education, and peer leadership for nonviolence. The Guest Speaker, Assistant Majority Leader Sen. Tarryl Clark (DFL-15), who is running for Congress against Republican US Rep. Michele Bachman (MN-6), joked about finally getting to wear pants on the MN Senate floor. Clark was first elected in 2005. She is an advocate for issues such as education, health care, jobs and economic development, and strengthening communities. The keynote speaker of the luncheon was MN Attorney General Lori Swanson. She told stories of the discrimination she faced while running for office and points out that “The number of women in legislative government still does not match the percentage of women in the population…It is so important that we encourage women to run for public office.” Swanson was elected in 2006. She is one of the only four female elected Attorney Generals in the nation and the first in the State of Minnesota. Swanson has been a strong advocate in areas such as predatory lending, health care reform, financial fraud against the
elderly, utility rate hikes, consumer protection, criminal justice, public safety, and protecting our natural resources. Also in attendance were US Rep. Keith Ellison’s (DFL-5) wife Kim and their daughter Amirah. Amirah and two of her friends spoke about a nonprofit they started called Children for Change, which is meant to get young people involved in politics and to help them to find their voices. “Our lives are being dictated by politicians…We should have a say if our schools are closed,” she said. Kathleen Murphy, the Executive Director for the Minnesota Constitutional Amendment for Equality (CAFE) Coalition, spoke about one of the main political actions that the MNWPC is currently supporting. The coalition is attempting to secure equal rights between men and women into the Minnesota State Constitution. The amendment reads, “Equality of rights under the law shall not be abridged or denied by the State of Minnesota or any of its political subdivisions on account of gender. The legislature may enforce the provisions of this section by
appropriate legislation.” The Minnesota CAFE Coalition believes such an amendment is necessary because while most gender issues in Minnesota statutes have been equalized, including the Human Rights Act, legislation can be rolled back. A statute can be more easily changed or limited by either the Legislature or the courts. Saying ‘legislation is enough’ is saying that equal rights between men and women are not important enough to be protected and upheld in the State Constitution, they argue. Other Constitutional amendments include the authorization of a state lottery, protecting hunting and fishing rights, dedicating money to the environment, and authorizing money to Vietnam and Persian Gulf Veterans. The coalition asks, “Are these amendments more important than equal rights for ALL the citizens of our state?” For more information on the Minnesota CAFE Coalition, visit www.mnCAFEcoalition.org. For more information on the MNWPC, visit www.mnwpc.org.
Page 8 • December 21 - December 27, 2009 • Insight News
http://insightnews.com
Hide those extra holiday pounds with some slimming glitz and glam By Marcia Humphrey marcia@insightnews.com If you were to look in the furthest corner of my closet, you would discover where I store my festive attire; my gold metallic jacket, my sequined tank top, my gold shimmery blouse and a couple of other items. While I really like these pieces, I only wear them during November, December, and January because they are my official holiwear (holiday celebration wear-all of which can be worn with my favorite pair of black pants). When this season comes around each year, I enjoy dressing myself as much as I enjoy dressing my Christmas tree.
Of course, if I were a super star, I could ‘rock’ this kind of clothing year round (but my oldest daughter keeps begging me not to; especially not the gold jacket!) The thing about my holi-wear, is that after attending a few holiday parties and indulging in a few too many baked goods, I’m finding that the fit of my gear has changed (I think it shrunk in the wash; that’s the story I’m sticking to!) If you have discovered your favorite holiday outfit has inexplicably become snug, illfitting, or outdated, no worries! I have a few budget-minded suggestions that may help you achieve the glam-factor for the remainder of the holiday season.
Instant holiday slimming undergarments If you’ve found a few extra pounds hiding on your body, don’t panic. Instead, head to your local department or discount store for the newest slimming undergarments and shapers; camis, slips, unitards, and briefs (they even have a slimming tank for men to contain the beer-belly). Wear your new smoothing slimmer under your old holi-wear and enjoy fewer bulges and more confidence. I just picked up a Flexees brand camisole for around $22 at Kohl’s (on sale, with extra 30%-off coupon-you know how I do).
Hot holiday slimming styles If you are in the market for a new outfit for the employee Christmas party, dazzle your coworkers with the slimming style of a wrap-around top with a v-neckline. Whether you choose a top or dress, the plunging neckline draws the eye up toward the face. In addition, the wraparound style helps create a waistline and camouflage a thicker midsection. In fact, many manufacturers are making clothing with tummy control panels built inside of the garment. They can be found at discounted stores like WalMart, as well as the high-end retailers. Touchable holiday textures If you want to achieve the glitz and
glam look for that special New Year’s Eve party, then select a shimmery blouse, with metallic threading. A top with sequins looks great peeking from underneath a slimming black jacket. You could also choose a velvety dress with draping that hides the trouble spots. Let’s not forget about accessoriesthey always make the outfit pop; patent shoes, glittery pumps, or strappy-buckle boots, dangly earring, chunky necklaces and shiny bracelets. Are you feeling the need to perk up your holiday look and cinch in your holiday waistline? Head over to your favorite retailer and (first try on, then) buy one of these magical slimming garments. Whether you pick up wonder-undies, or go for the
outfit with the “built-ins,” you’ll look great, feel confident, and have much more fun getting your groove on during the festivities. Finally, once you have gotten dressed for that special evening and the mirror confirms that you are looking good on the outside, don’t leave the house without the two most important garments that go with every style, every color, and every occasion; your SMILE and your LOVE. Dear Friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. 1 John 4:7 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.
Africa From 1 facing catastrophe,” Samatar said. Samatar continued, “the other point I want to present in this forum relates to what I mentioned before: Can Somalis survive in their own political death? I am not sure, if they can. One can’t give up human beings who are still alive.” He said recent reports show the Somali population in Somalia now are 45-50% malnutritioned. “Even the current president came to Minnesota recently and never even spoke about it,” he said. Somalia’s fate, he said, is currently in the hands of a legless, no capacity government and merciless militia that want to force onto the Somali people what he called an “Islamist Project.” So, what are the lessons for the other people in the Horn of Africa can learn from this, the people in the region? “The answer is the flip side of this,” said Samatar. “Despite the animosity between the Ethiopians and Eritreans, I think these communities should think bigger.” He called for triple identity, Eritrean should become Eritrean first, then Ethiopian and PanAfricanist and Ethiopians vise versa. He warned that if you don’t do that and retreat to nationalism or your own comfort, it will not solve anything including the challenges we face in the Horn of Africa. “Triple identity concept with action not just talk can bring results and can make you survive from political death.” Samatar told the audience. Samatar concluded that the people of the Horn of Africa need: Freedom – respecting of individual liberty, equality – Everyone equal under law, democracy – accepting the differences and adopting principle of non-violence. Putting Humanity Ethnicity
Before
Dr. Ahmed Samatar Magn Nyang, and Obang Metho Obang Metho, who travelled from Canada where he currently resides, told the audience repeatedly that no one is immune from abuse until we all embrace that all humanities are equal. Obang who came from the Gambela region, South West of Ethiopia, said when he went back to his region after studying in Canada, he was shocked with what he saw there. One hospital for half million people, one doctor for all, no access to clean water. He said Gambela is the most marginalized region in Ethiopia. Obang mentioned the massacre that took place in Gambella on December 2003. He said Ethiopian forces went from house to house killing civilians. These people were “mostly educated, some of the people I was working with. The idea of the government was kill the snake from the head and the rest of the body is nonsense no matter how big it is,” he said. In that killing, the head of the Enuak people eliminated. “I think until we can come together and value the life of everyone, we will not be where we want. Governments abuse their power on to one group while
others watch. Then what happens next, the abuse moves to another group, and another group. Obang said: “The educators told us the academic solution, but I will tell you the humanity solution: put yourself under shoes of others and think. The only way we can stop any form of violence or injustice is to put our humanity first and ethnicity second or third. Let us respect the universal law of individual right is a human right.” “There are those who may question the very idea of a Diaspora community far away from the daily suffering and challenges of the people of the Horn of Africa trying to get involved in a civic effort that is intended to enhance the possibility of peace in a region desperately starving for lasting peace,” said Seyoum Tesfaye, Chairman of Eritrean Global Solidarity. He said, “Do we have a right or a duty to get involved in a very volatile region that we have left behind voluntarily or were forced to abandon it due the crisis that seems endemic to the region? It is a legitimate doubt presented by a way of question.”
Tesfaye said that those of us who feel that we have a duty and a responsibility to do our share to contribute, to the extent that is possible, be it from the comfort zone of an air-conditioned American conference room, must take the doubt raised with all the seriousness we could master. The effort to add our modest voices to the expanding conversation on how best to give back to our former homeland while at the same time waging an all-out efforts to find our rightful place in the American quilt will not be an easy process. Which comes first: the egg or the chicken? Should the Diaspora first focus in finding a more accelerated way of becoming an integral part of the ongoing American grand experiment or stay confined within the margin while being consumed by cascading events in the country or region of origin? This is not counterpoising two possibilities, but setting up the parameters of the challenge to stress the choice being faced by newly arriving immigrants from the Horn Region like all other previous immigrants that had finally blended in into the
Photos: Suluki Fardan
Dr. Bereket Habte Sellassie and Seyoum Tesfaye American society empowered and integrated into the very fiber of the political and economic system. Tesfaye posed the question: Could a Diaspora community experimenting with its newly enshrined hyphenated existence be formidable enough to leverage its limited integration into the American civilization to help enhance the possibility of peace in a besieged region? Responding to his question he said, “the most optimistically simple and simplistic answer will be yes it could.” Tesfaye said he is a firm believer that our duty to America, once we have voluntarily accepted US citizenship, comes ahead of our loyalty to our former country. Cultural ambiguity and sense of loss that most immigrants feel when giving up their original citizenship is understandable. But failing to grasp the full legal implication of being an American citizen and not deploying this new privilege in its correct and legitimate way has grave consequences. “When dealing with our
former homeland. We must stand for democracy, rule of law, justice, human rights and fairness,” Tesfaye said. Tesfaye concluded by saying: “Like all other immigrants who wish to do their best to help their country of origin we will slowly build our skill level and, whether we like it or not, be absorbed into the American system as Eritrean American, Ethiopian American and Somali American- with the hyphenation as a comforting concession to our African (ancestral) soul. We are citizens of the USA. We are Americans. We have to respect the American Constitution and present our concerns under the protection of the Bill of Rights.” This event was sponsored by the African News Journal and The Eritrean Global Solidarity, hosted by Al McFarlane of Insight News, coordinated by Saeed Fahia of Somali Confederation, Dr. Magn Nyang of Gambella Relief Organization and Petros Haile, of Eritrean Global Solidarity, Minnesota Chapter.
Presenting...
Marvelous Mondays at BROOKSIDE BARBERSHOP
Starring
“Barber Extraordinaire”
DARIUS KNIGHT CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT (APPOINTMENT ONLY)
SHOP: (952) 929-3998 CELL: (612) 414 - 9696
6102 Excelsior Boulevard, St. Louis Park, MN 55416
Check out travellingbarber.com for deals and updates
http://insightnews.com
CBC From 1 - described what their constituents are dealing with and told why they must continue to act. “Members of the Congressional Black Caucus are being bombarded with requests for assistance by minority businesses that have no capital,” continued Waters. “The banks won’t lend them any money. They’re either closing down or threatening to be closed down. The joblessness is off the scale. Not only do we have long lines seeking unemployment, but on Thanksgiving Day around the country - including the scenes that came out of Atlanta and Los Angeles - there were thousands of people standing in line for turkeys and turkey dinners. In Los Angeles, I walked a four-block square place
Insight News • December 21 - December 27, 2009 • Page 9 hurting most.” What the 10 Black members did was boycott the committee’s final vote on a broad-sweeping financial overhaul bill. Instead, they were over at the White House trying to obtain greater funding for economic advances in the Black community. The vote passed narrowly, but the CBC’s action effectively forced $4 billion to the table to go directly toward helping people keep their homes after they’ve lost their jobs. In addition to the needs of Black businesses, home owners and the jobless, a news release describing the boycott specifically cited the importance of spending federal advertising dollars with Black newspapers. “Like other businesses, access to capital has been a challenge for this industry as well. With declining ad revenues, newspapers everywhere are struggling to survive,” the statement said.
"So, now we are using our muscle to address the high jobless rates in our communities and the high foreclosure rate." where they were giving out baskets. In that line were the disabled. One lady was 94-years-old.” Joblessness, frustration, hopelessness - the sentiments are synonymous from state to state. “They’re going through a tremendous, tremendous desperation effort,” said U.S. Rep. David Scott (D-GA). “Even if you look at all of your own newspapers, advertising dollars are not there. We sit here as Congress people with tremendous leverage and power. It was so important for us to use that leverage.” U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA), Chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus, is supportive of the Financial Services Committee’s stance and said in a statement following remarks by President Barack Obama on job creation and economic growth: “President Obama’s speech was another sober reminder of the important work we must do to grow our economy and create jobs. While we agree with the president that support for small businesses, infrastructure investment and green jobs is essential, we also believe that much more needs to be done, particularly for those Americans who are
Danny Bakewell, chairman of the 200-member National Newspaper Publishers Association, was credited by several members for helping to spark the protest by his firebrand lobbying around Capitol Hill. Bakewell said he is delighted at the stance taken by the CBC, but much more must be done to recognize the power of the Black Press to the nation. “We have been the backbone and the foundation on which America was built. And in this case, what we are realizing is that we continue to be the foundation on which many of these corporations make their profits and develop their brands throughout the country and we’re not going to continue to sit idly by and let them do that while the very fabric of our community is crumbling from within. We’re serving notice on General Motors, Ford, Toyota, and other automotive companies and the automotive industry that there will be no more business as usual,” said Bakewell. Bakewell and NNPA Foundation Chair Dorothy R. Leavell, as well as Mollie Belt, 2nd Vice Chair of NNPA and Michael House, NNPA Marketing
Chairperson, have begun a series of meetings with corporations and have already made inroads. “We’ve met with AT&T. They have been very receptive. They represent what we believe at this point we can say is a good corporate citizen,” Bakewell said. “We’re not asking for a bail out or a hand out, we’re asking for reciprocity and respect.” Bakewell explained that the Black community, Black newspapers included, are being shortchanged for the dollars they spend with businesses and corporations. “We’re asking what percentage of the market share do we represent a company’s business, their profit margin? If we represent one percent, we don’t expect to get anything more than one percent. But, if we represent 50 percent, we expect to have 50 percent of their resources and their effort going to strengthen their brand and building their brand in our community,” Bakewell said. In order to avoid legal ramifications, the committee agreed to target the money toward communities with the highest socioeconomic impact rather than by race. That includes most of the CBC districts. “Across the country, it is absolutely shocking,” said U.S. Rep. Al Green (D-TX). “It is very unfortunate that we have to make this commentary, but the truth of the matter is that there are people who are suffering and who have not been identified properly...We cannot leave these communities behind. If it goes to the areas where the unemployment is the highest, it covers the people who are suffering the most. Green said his office has found that the federal government spends about 5 percent of $4.3 billion for ad-related expenditures on small business and minority businesses. “We can do better than that,” he said. “These newspapers, not only do they benefit from the ads, but the community benefits from the message that the ads bring to the community because it goes to a corner of the community that is not penetrated by other newspapers.” Part of the money will come from the TARP (Troubled Asset Relief Program). “There’s no more troubled assets than a job and your home,” said Scott. “So, now we are using our muscle to address the high jobless rates in our communities
and the high foreclosure rate.” CBC members are hoping to get even more as they continue to use creative ways to call attention to the swelling problems in the Black community that have shaken up the offices of the CBC members. “The traditional role of a member of Congress before the economic downturn was to basically intervene with the federal government agencies on behalf of constituents, people didn’t get their VA checks or social security checks or they were needing help getting their travel documents or visas or passport,” said U.S. Rep. Mel Watt (D-NC). “But, disproportionately now, people are calling for grassroots down in the community help. I need food, I need housing. I need to be protected from a foreclosure. I need assistance with mortgage modification, I need you to find me a job. Businesses are calling saying I can’t find any loans, I can’t get credit.” Congressman Gregory Meeks (D-NY) says his district has been hit especially hard in homeownership. “My district in the city of New York is number one in foreclosures. So, more people are losing their homes and thereby losing wealth. And so much so that I’ve had to get not-for-profit organizations that have expertise in helping individuals work through these problems,” he said. “We really can’t make a decision in trying to save people’s homes. So they’re feeling that the dream that they had, the American dream of having home ownership, they had it, but they’re losing it and as a result losing their credit, which might mean they may not be able to gain it again.” U.S. Rep. Lacy Clay (D-MO) said it’s like the lifeblood flowing
Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN) precarious to our community, unique to our community. U.S. Rep. Eldridge Cleaver (DMO) said his constituents are wise to the fact that they’ve been neglected while big businesses were bailed out. “It is not just impacting the uneducated, it’s impacting the entire community. We gave General Motors billions of dollars. They don’t advertise in Black newspapers. They don’t advertise
“We gave General Motors billions of dollars. They don't advertise in Black newspapers. They don't advertise on Black radio. That's not right.” out of the communities. Missouri, like the rest of the country, is hemorrhaging, especially in the African American community from the economic woes of this country...There is no job creation, there is no rescue or bailout for those African-Americans who have been caught in a cycle of home foreclosures, job losses and health care benefits, all of that is
on Black radio. That’s not right. And there’s no reason for us to remain passive or silent as that’s happening,” said Cleaver. CBC members have known all along about the disparate treatment of Blacks. But recently they were enlightened to the point of taking their consciousness to a new level of protest. “As we worked through the
process of getting to the point where we were going to vote for the final Wall Street bill, it became more and more difficult for the 10 members of financial services to vote for it because it felt like we were navel gazing,” said Gwen Moore (D-WI) “We saw that we were presiding over the entire collapse of the Black economy. We had to make a decision about how to get attention on a whole sector of our economy that was about to go under. It wasn’t like the Black community was getting a hair cut, we were being beheaded.” With the Black unemployment rate surpassing 15 percent while the overall rate is at 10 percent, there is one cry above all others for which the CBC vows to continue to stand: “Jobs, jobs, jobs, jobs, jobs,” lamented Rep. Andre Carson (DIN) “We’re dealing with so many contentious issues in Congress, to see people who are bold and unapologetic, you can’t do anything but respect it whether you agree or disagree philosophically, the boldness that comes with that stand can’t be overlooked.”
Page 10 • December 21 - December 27, 2009 • Insight News
http://insightnews.com
COMMUNITY CALENDAR 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 Free film showing: “THE BIG SELL-OUT” – Dec. 21 Mon., Dec. 21, 6:30 PM. Lower level – St. Joan of Arc Church, 4537 Third Ave. S., Mpls. The film shows how international financial institutions such as the IMF and the World Bank demand huge cuts in
Job Announcement The Minneapolis Urban League is looking for visionary directors who are able to see the "Big Picture". These positions are for individuals who are looking for a great opportunity to be a part of launching the MUL "Gateway 2 Opportunity" strategic plan, and shaping and enhancing the mission of the Urban League. Health & Wellness Director - The Director is responsible for managing all Minneapolis Urban League (MUL) Health and Social Wellness Programs and expanding the current programs and services to other heath disparities to achieve results and meet annual goals. The Director will plan, develop, implement, and evaluate health education strategies, interventions and programs to improve the quality of life and health outcomes of diverse populations. This is a professional position working in the development and coordination of health education, health promotion, and community outreach activities. They accomplish their objectives by building collaborative relationships with staff, peers, leadership and the community. WorkForce Solutions Director - The Director is responsible for managing all Minneapolis Urban League (MUL) WorkForce Solutions Employment Programs and workforce development activities, including long-established programs as well as start-up activities. The Director will ensure that all contract requirements are met, and support WorkForce Solutions managers, supervisors, and staff with expansion of their programs and services. These positions require a Bachelor's degree in human services, business workforce development, health education, health promotion, or related field. Five to ten years of leadership or management experience in the non-profit sector. Three to Five years of leadership or management experience in employment and training services or in a social service agency, especially helping individuals with barriers to achieve independence. Social Engagement Manager - The Social Engagement Manager is a member of the Fund Development Team and creates, implements and manages the MUL Brand in ways that build support and increase revenue from individuals, corporate, events and campaigns. The Social Engagement Manager will research revenue sources, cultivate and manage relationships and solicit donation by writing grants and other fund raising related activities. The Social Engagement Manager will develop, execute and manage MUL events such as: Family Day, the Annual Dinner, special receptions, membership campaigns, and individual donors. A savvy social media expert who will be responsible for the development, implementation and management of MUL online networks such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, e-news services, and others to build membership. This position requires Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Public Relations, Communication, Journalism or English, or related field. Event development and management experience is required and securing sponsorships is preferred. Minimum of (2) years experience in grant research, grant writing, public relations/marketing, editing and writing publications, and meeting/special events planning, and experience with online marketing. To apply email cover letter and resume to sploveless@mul.org; fax to 612521-1444 or mail to 2100 Plymouth Ave. No., Mpls, Mn 55411, Attn: HR Preferred method is email. The deadline is December 29, 2009.
public spending, the privatization of public services and market liberalization as the path to economic development. Protect The E.D.G.E and Urban Stars Christmas Basketball Clinic – Dec. 21, 22, 23 Dec. 21, 22, and 23. 8 - 4:30 pm each day at Colin Powell Basketball Center. 2924 4th Ave S., Mpls. For Boys and Girls, ages 817. Cost: Now $65.99 / participant includes: Lunch, T-shirt, awards/participation certificates. Register online at: http://www.protecttheedgenow.co m/xmasclinic.html
CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING INTERNSHIP PCL Construction Services, Inc. is seeking an Engineering or Construction Management student to fill a full-time internship opportunity during the summer of 2010. Position details & application can be found online at www.pcl.com. Job ID # 1530. No phone calls or walk-ins please. PCL is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V
ABA
Minnesota Blizzards Basketball The Minnesota Blizzards ABA Basketball Team is announcing a program for college Internships for the fall and winter. The program will consist of five teams of 5 interns each in the following areas: (1) Sales, (2) Basketball Operations. (3) Marketing (4) Public Relations (5) Business administration. Each team will have a leader and be given challenging assignments. We are looking for college students majoring in Sports Management, Business, Public Relations, Marketing Sales, Broadcasting and Event Planning. We need 20 or 25 interns working with us for a (minimum of 8 hours a week) on a part-time basis. Interns will gain valuable experience, and in most cases college credits. Interested Parties please send resume to: The Minnesota ABA Team Attn: Internship Program 10125 Crosstown Circle #200 Eden Prairie, MN 55344 952-829-1250 Fax: 952-829-1040 www.minnesotablizzards.com
Jamaica Minnesota Organization Benefit Raffle All Proceeds Benefit JMO Scholarship Program. $5 Contribution per ticket. Increase your chances with multiple tickets. Contact JMO members for tickets or Mail contributions to JMO at address: JAMAICA MINNESOTA ORGANIZATION, P.O. Box 580726, Minneapolis, MN 55458. For contributions by mail, JMO will mail out tickets. More info: 651-639-7687 Free job search workshop - Dec. 22 Tues., 1 - 3:30pm at New Horizons Learning Center, 4510 W 77th St in Edina. Help Wanted Workshop will offer a free job search workshop to test the curriculum for future seminars. We’re looking to include 8-12 people to participate and provide feedback. To register, call Julie at 763-656-3808, email: julie@helpwantedworkshop.com or website: www.helpwantedworkshop.com. Winter Break Nature Camps for Children 6 to 12
Powderhorn Park and Recreation Center, 3400 15th Ave S, Mpls. Dec. 28 - 31, 1 to 4 p.m. 2101 Franklin Ave W, Mpls. Dec. 21-23, 1 to 4 p.m. 4400 Dupont Ave N, Mpls. Dec. 28 - 31 9a.m. to 4p.m. (9-12:00 on Thurs). More information and registration at www.minneapolisparks.org Snowshoeing at Wirth Park – Dec. 26 Sat., Dec. 26, 10:00am to 11:30am. Snowshoe through Wirth Park in an area that most people only see in summer. Watch for wildlife as you tromp through the snow. Snowshoes provided. Meet at the Wirth Beach parking lot on Glenwood Ave just east of Theodore Wirth Parkway. Register at minneapolisparks.org or call 313-7725. Mighty Fortress International Church New Year’s Eve Celebration - Dec. 31 6500 85th Ave N., Brooklyn Park, MN. Doors open at 9 pm. Celebration starts at 10 pm. After party 1 am until. FFI: (763) 5154800, ww.mfim.net
M & E COORDINATOR PCL Construction Services, Inc. is seeking a full-time M & E Coordinator to work from our Burnsville, MN office. Travel required. Degree in Engineering or Construction Management required & 7-10 years experience preferred. Position details & application can be found online at www.pcl.com. Job ID # 1642. No phone calls or walk-ins please. PCL is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V
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.
Grants and Appeals Coordinator Summit Academy OIC is seeking a highly skilled and experienced grant and appeals writer to coordinate and develop long-term, expanded constituency for grants, and gifts for support of vocational education programs of the Summit Academy OIC. The ideal candidates must have a four-year college degree and at least four years proven grant writing experience and development work in the non-profit sector. 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.
“Yolka”: Masked Ball for Kids and Adults - Jan. 9 Sat., Jan. 9, 3 pm at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1720 Minnehaha Parkway, Mpls. Registration: 612-978-6209 or email:elesha52@yahoo.com. www.rusculturemn.com Winter Trails at Fort Snelling Jan. 9 Sat., Jan. 9, 1pm – 4pm; Fort Snelling State Park Picnic Shelter A, Minneapolis, MN. Visit www.wintertrails.org for more information or call 651-635-0211. Listening to the Past: Brownie Girl Scout Workshop – Jan 9 Jan. 9, 10:30 a.m. to Noon at the Minnesota History Center, 345 Kellogg Blvd W., St. Paul. For more info and ticket information: www.minnesotahistorycenter.org, 651-259-3000. Reservations required. Jawaahir Dance Company 17th Annual Henna Party – Jan 10 Sun., Jan. 10, 2–5 P.M. at Jawaahir Dance Company, 1940 Hennepin Ave., Mpls. $10 single, $8 each for groups of five or more. 612-8726050, www.jawaahir.org New Year’s Tea Brunch & Bible Fellowship – Jan 16 Saturday, January 16, 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM at Dennis Ministries (located in the Dymanyk Electric Bldg), 1919 Broadway NE, Mpls. R.S.V.P by: January 12. 763-9512288, dennisministries@yahoo.com.
2010 Census Apply Now!
Temporary, part-time jobs
Census Jobs offer: • Good Pay • Flexible Hrs up to 40/wk • Mileage reimbursement • Work near home Call 1-866-861-2010 EOE
Thank you for advertising with us!
http://insightnews.com
Insight News • December 21 - December 27, 2009 • Page 11
SPORTS MN Vikings preparing for the Playoffs Mr T’s Sports Report
By Ryan T. Scott ryan@insightnews.com In African American vernacular speech you may find the word ‘grill’ which is a synonym for face. ‘Grill’ can also be used as a verb that is synonymous with ‘stare’; for example, she was
grillin’ me from all the way across the room. Wishful thinking. I establish these terms because the Vikings’ crown prince of recession suppression (he’s bringing in money and making recession life easier for broke Minnesotans), Brett Favre, has a new look on his face. Favre officially has on his ‘Playoff Grill’ and seems poised to lead the Vikings to a place that only he on this team is familiar with, the Superbowl. The surprising loss to the Arizona Cardinals a couple weeks ago served a good purpose for the Vikings. That game served the purpose of driving home the
reality that the Vikings were not going to be able to smile their way to a championship. For the first three quarters of the season the Vikings have been a regular fun bunch. With game winning “HailMary” touchdown victories, and the other games, which seem to get settled by halftime, the Vikings have had plenty of time to enjoy jolly sideline time in the blowouts, and jubilant lockerroom celebrations for the last minute movie script type wins. And so the Vikings have seemed to be on a sort of cruise control, that two victories over their next closest division rival Green Bay provides them the comfort off.
prod.static.vikings.clubs.nfl.com
Favre and company celebrate last second win against San Francisco 49ers
In one of my Vikings articles from December of last year, I commented on the many demons that the Vikings needed to conquer in order to reach the level of success that their talent suggests they should achieve. Their December schedule of games last year had contests versus the Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, and NY Giants. These are all teams that have caused the Vikings very painful memories from recent history. The Vikings did pretty well during that stretch, winning two of the three games. Oddly enough, the Cardinals were the first team they played in those final three games, and the Cardinals went on to play in the Superbowl despite the fact that the Vikings firmly put their foot in the Cardinals backside with a 35-14 victory. Go figure. This year, the Cardinals came around on the schedule and served the Vikings up a friendly reminder of what time in the football season it is. At this point in the NFL season players begin looking forward to the potential for a few extra paychecks should they make the playoffs and advance. Naturally everyone is a bit more engaged when there is some money on the line, and Superbowl victories reward players and coaches with a Mt. Kilimanjarosized ring that is good for book deals and paid autograph sessions from here until someone turns out the lights on this small planet (that’s why I don’t get players leaving championship teams for a slightly bigger paycheck elsewhere). The Vikings were joyfully enjoying their season up until that loss, which the Cardinals played like a playoff game, and the Vikings played like…well…they played like a group of happy fellas having fun. After getting smacked around a few times, and throwing a few interceptions, Favre had a look on his face of uncertainty for the first time this year. Favre fell apart last year for the Jets due to
injury, and now the same questions of his durability were creeping in. So what did Favre do? He dropped the “regular season smile” and put on his “playoff grill.” In the immediate game after the Cardinals, against the Cincinnati Bengels, Favre looked about as stoic and focused as a man facing a real Bengal tiger. This “playoff grill” and the effect that it and the return of cornerback Antoine Winfield should have on the team, could mean that the Vikings and their fans get to open up the big box with the big bow for this NFL holiday season. I’m writing a lot about the Vikings because after the emotional roller coaster of this
year, I don’t think that Mr. Favre will return for the encore next season; which may involve a much better Green Bay Packer team considering the feverish way that they are finishing the season with victories, and Favre wants no parts of the thought of losing to them next year. So enjoy the Vikings current success and consider it a Christmas gift during a cold recessionary winter. There are plenty of sports options for adults and youth, to either watch or participate in, during this family focused time of year. Take advantage, and Merry Christmas.
Page 12 • December 21 - December 27, 2009 • Insight News
http://insightnews.com
HOLIDAY HOURS Most Stores Open Until 4 pm on 12/24 All Stores Will be Closed 12/25 All Stores Open Regular Hours on Saturday 12/26/09 We accept these credit & debit cards SUNDAY
MONDAY
SAVE UP TO
TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY
DECEMBER DECEMBER DECEMBER DECEMBER DECEMBER
20
21
22
23
24
Proud Grocer of the Minnesota
$50.00 WHEN YOU PURCHASE THESE FRONT PAGE
ADVERTISED SPECIALS
PRICES EFFECTIVE: SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20 THROUGH THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2009
Cook’s Semi-Boneless Whole Ham or Butterball Turkey
78¢ Frozen 10-22 Lb. Avg.
lb.
WITH PURCHASE OF $25 OR MORE SAVE UP TO $1.41 LB. • LIMIT 1 EACH
88¢
Cooks Bone-In Half Ham SAVE UP TO $1.41 LB. LIMIT 1
lb.
Roundy's Spiral Sliced Half Ham
Semi-Boneless Beef Rib Roast
$5.99
Brown Sugar or Honey
lb.
$1.99
lb.
SAVE UP TO $1.00 LB.
SAVE UP TO $3.00 LB.
Hormel Black Label Sliced Bacon
Sargento Shredded Cheese
Selected 12-16 Oz. Varieties
Selected 5-8 Oz. Varieties
SAVE UP TO $4.98 ON 2 LIMIT 2
SAVE UP TO $6.09 ON 3
3/$4.98
2/$5
Washington Granny Smith, Red or Golden Delicious Apples
California Broccoli
99¢
Each
99¢
lb.
SAVE UP TO 50¢ LB.
SAVE UP TO 90¢
Apple or Traditional Pumpkin Pie
Green Asparagus
$1.69
8 Inch • From Our Bakery
lb.
2/$5
SAVE UP TO $1.60 LB.
SAVE UP TO $4.98 ON 2
Cool Whip Whipped Topping or Dips
Roundy's 31-40 Ct. Cooked Tail-On Shrimp
Selected 5.5-8 Oz. Varieties
Also Available Frozen in 2 Lb. Bags for $13.76
99¢
SAVE UP TO $1.00
$6.88
lb.
SAVE UP TO $2.11 LB.
We reserve the right to limit quantities and correct all printed errors. Not all varieties available at all locations. Prices subject to state and local taxes, if applicable. No sales to dealers. Purchase requirements exclude discounts, coupons, gift cards, lottery tickets and bus passes. Check out our website at: www.rainbowfoods.com *Free promotion will be applied to item of least value.