Insight News ::: 08.01.16

August 9th primary endorsements

STORY ON PAGE 2

Insight News August 1 - August 7, 2016

Vol. 43 No. 31 • The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com

Mariana Cress Olympics bound

Fierce International

Mariana Cress

Sasha Dean’s Mom, Dena Silcox

Young fan Sasha Deans (center) poses with (left to right) Aldayne Haughton, Kamardo Blake, Kieron Cunningham and Phillip McFarlane of EarthKry at Open Streets on Lake Street, Sunday, July 24th.

EarthKry and Ipso Facto rocked Bunker’s

By Harry Colbert, Jr. Managing Editor The sound of the islands made its way to the land of the lakes this

past week when Jamaican reggae band EarthKry made its first ever trip to Minnesota, playing a series of shows at venues and events around town, including a Thursday (July 21) evening show

at Bunker’s that turned out to be a double-billed family affair with Ipso Facto.

Hailing for Kingston, Jamaica, EarthKry, a youthful and talented foursome that includes keyboard

player Phillip McFarlane, drummer Kieron Cunningham, bass guitarist Kamardo Blake and vocalist/guitarist Aldayne

CONCERT TURN TO 9

By Harry Colbert, Jr. Managing Editor Eighteenth birthdays are special, but for one area teen her 18th birthday will be extra special.

That’s because on Aug. 12 when Mariana Cress celebrates her birthday she’ll be doing it in Brazil as an Olympian, running in her heat of the 100 meter

dash. And sure, some people are thinking they know all the members of the U.S.A. women’s track and field team and Cress is not one of them. That’s correct.

Cress isn’t on the U.S. squad.

She’s running for the blue, white and orange of the Republic of the Marshall Islands. Just shy of 18-years-old and entering into her senior year of high school, Cress is the island nation’s top ranked sprinter. She has been representing the nation for a few years now, earning three bronze medals (100 meter, 200 meter and 4x100 relays) in the 2014 Micronesian Games in Pohnpei.

The Marshall Islands, with a population of just more than 53,000 and located halfway between Hawaii and Australia, is competing in the Olympics for just the third time. Cress has not set foot on the island, but her father was born in the islands, thus under international rules, Cress is eligible to represent the island chain. For Cress, who was a member of the 2015 state

CRESS TURN TO 8

It can be done!

U.S. Bank stadium exceeds workforce, contractor goals

By Harry Colbert, Jr. Managing Editor A marvel in design and construction, U.S. Bank Stadium is also being touted as a model for diversity in its workforce and contracting.

Soon to be home of the Minnesota Vikings, the 2018 Super Bowl, the 2017 and 2018 X Games, the 2019 NCAA Men’s Final Four and more, the stadium that sits on the site of the former

Metrodome was built at a cost of $1.1 billion. Many of those dollars ended up in the pockets of people of color, women and veterans. So while many of the “VIPs” selected to attend the stadium’s ribbon cutting and open house July 22 ogled over their NFL team’s new home, much of the talk from those involved with the project focused on the labor force that built the state-of-the-art dome that has radically changed the Minneapolis landscape and skyline.

“This stadium is where

opportunity meets reality,” said Michele Kelm-Helgen, chair of the Minnesota Sports Facility Authority (MSFA) – the group responsible for the oversight of the new stadium. “We far exceeded our business and workforce goals.

I believe we set a new standard for business in the state. This is a premiere example of what a public/private partnership can be.”

Receiving state funds, the stadium that is double the size of

STADIUM TURN TO 6

Harry Colbert, Jr.

Gov. Mark Dayton (center) watches the video countdown as he prepares to cut the ribbon to U.S. Bank Stadium. Next to Dayton are Minnesota Vikings owners, Ziggy Wilf (far left) and Mark Wilf (left), Michele Kelm-Helgen, chair of the Minnesota Sports Facility Authority (right) and stadium designer Jeff Vandersall of HKS Architects (far right).

Photo courtesy of Jeff Hayden

Taylor Hayden (left) and mother, Joyce Hayden, following Taylor Hayden’s graduation from Prairie View A&M

Taylor Hayden: A shining star Bright, vivacious, charismatic.

Those are the words Sen. Jeff Hayden used to describe his sister, Ms. Taylor Hayden, just 25 years old when she was killed July 22 by an errand bullet while leaving an Atlanta nightclub in the posh Buckhead district. According to

police reports rival gangs began shooting at one another and Ms. Hayden, in Atlanta for a “girl’s weekend,” was an innocent bystander caught in the middle of

HAYDEN TURN TO 9

Another Country Examining violence at home from afar

PAGE 3

U.S. President Barack Obama and Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton

Urban News Service

Emotions ran the gamut at DNC

By Harry Colbert, Jr. Managing Editor Philadelphia – A range of emotions were felt during last

week’s Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia.

There was anger from the “Bernie or Bust” crowd – supporters of the presidential bid of Sen. Bernie Sanders.

There was enthusiasm with the passionate speech of Michelle Obama followed by grief with the speeches of mothers whose children were killed at the hands of law enforcement. There was

Education

Business

Harvest Network kicks off campaign featuring Minnesota Teacher of the Year

Three ways to elevate volunteer engagement

PAGE 4

PAGE 6

contempt for the Republican presidential nominee, Donald Trump; and when President Barack Obama spoke there

DNC TURN TO 9

Aesthetically Speaking Jovonta Patton debuts at No. 1 on Billboard’s gospel album chart

PAGE 10

Page 2 • August 1 - August 7, 2016 • Insight News

insightnews.com

August 9th primary endorsements About the omnibus budget bill

L-R: Rep. Keith Ellison (D-5), Minnesota Supreme Court Justice Natalie Hudson, Sen. Jeff Hayden (DFL-62), Sen. Bobby Champion (DFL-59) and Rep. Rena Moran (DFL-65A) Ellison leads the charge inviting Sanders supporters to stand with him and Sanders in unifying the Democratic Party and rejecting venomous and hateful divisiveness that is the hallmark of Donald Trump’s campaign for president as the Republican Party nominee.

Ellison will employ his considerable gifts of organizing and effective representation to continue to broaden the tent of the Democratic Party. Rightly, he describes civic participation, voting and volunteering as civil virtues, and admonishes apathy and a failure or refusal to vote as civic sins.

Justice Natalie Hudson has the education, experience and training that makes her worthy of our support.

Hudson was appointed to the Minnesota Supreme Court in 2015 by Gov. Mark Dayton and

Insight News endorses Rep. Keith Ellison (D-5), Minnesota Supreme Court Justice Natalie Hudson, State Sen. Jeff Hayden (DFL62), State Sen. Bobby Champion (DFL-59) and State Rep. Rena Moran (DFL-65A), for the Aug. 9 Minnesota primary elections.

And Insight encourages voters to turn out for the primary election as never before because the stakes are just that high. Each of the endorsees faces at least one challenger and only the top two vote getters in each contest go on to the Nov. 8 general election.

Keith Ellison remains a phenomenal, trail-blazing leader on the national level as the voice of the progressive wing of the Democratic Party. Ellison engaged early and intensely in support of Sen. Bernie Sanders’ bid for the Democratic Party nomination for president. Now, the practical visionary that he is,

now must stand for reelection to the Court. Hudson served on the Minnesota Court of Appeals for more than 12 years, prior to her appointment to the Supreme Court, and served as St. Paul City Attorney before that.

State Senators Jeff Hayden, Deputy Majority Leader, and Bobby Joe Champion successfully navigated conflict-riddled legislative waters this year finding completion and accomplishment in applauding Dayton’s signing of the omnibus supplemental budget bill. The bill included historic and unparalleled investments secured

by Hayden and Champion that will begin to address Minnesota’s alarming racial and economic disparities.

Through their leadership of the Senate Subcommittee on Equity, Hayden and Champion secured ongoing investments for programs that will create

In total, 26 organizations and programs are funded through the equity provision of the omnibus budget bill. Additionally, the agriculture provision and the education provision of the bill also fund programs dedicated to eliminating root causes of Minnesota’s persistent disparities.

The Grow Your Own program received $1.5 million, supporting paraprofessional pathways to licensure. The Good Food Access program got $250,000 to address barriers to nutritious, affordable food by providing grants, low-cost loans and technical support for new or enhanced grocery stores, mobile markets and farmers’ markets for projects around the state.

Others receiving funds include Neighborhood Development Center – $1.5 million, Ujamaa Place – $600,000, Enterprise Minnesota – $1.75 million, YWCA Career Development Programs (St. Paul) – $1 million, YWCA Minneapolis – $750,000, EMERGE Community Development – $4.25 million, Twin Cities Rise! – $1.2 million, Metropolitan Transit – $407,000, Metropolitan Economic Development Association (MEDA)

jobs, strengthen businesses, help families find homes, provide educational programs and more.

The Equity Subcommittee’s recommendations for funding in the larger omnibus supplemental budget bill, totaled $35 million in one-time funding and $17.5 million each year in ongoing funding. The investment has

Business Development and Assistance Services – $2.5 million, Minneapolis Foundation (North at Work Grant) – $1 million, Career Connections Pathways Hennepin County – $2.5 million, Pathways to Prosperity Program – $1 million, White Earth Nation Integrated Business Development – $500,000 and Construction Careers Foundation – $2 million.

In addition, the package includes funding for economic disparities in the Latino community – $1.5 million, education disparities within NativeAmerican communities – $800,000, Somali youth and community resiliency – $2 million, emerging entrepreneurs – $500,000, the Youth at Work grant program – $1 million, capacity building grants program – $320,000, the expansion of the Family Stabilization Plan program – $500,000, the Landlord Guarantee Fund Pilot – $250,000, funds to increase the number of women in high wage, high-demand, nontraditional jobs – $1.5 million, grants to address economic disparities in Southeast Asian Communities – $2 million and services to the blind – $1 million.

been called the largest one-time infusion of funding for programs aimed at addressing Minnesota’s significant disparities.

State Rep. Rena Moran stood shoulder-to-shoulder with her Senate colleagues, gaining the Republican led-House of Representatives’ support for the omnibus bill signed by the

governor.

Moran’s focus on education, housing, workforce development and jobs has been critical for her district. She has become increasingly effective as a legislator.

She received an A++ rating from Voices of Racial Justice for her work on racial equity.

Jordan weighs in on conversation of police brutality donations to the NAACP and to the International Association of Chiefs of Police’s Institute for Community-Police Relations. The Institute for Community-Police Relations was established to foster better relationships between police and the communities they serve through various community policing initiatives.

Jordan’s July 25 announcement came via a statement released to The Undefeated, an online platform of ESPN that explores the intersection of sports and ethnicity.

In his statement, Jordan, who has been widely criticized in

When it comes to celebrities and athletes lending their voices to the conversation of police D. Myles Cullen brutality and Michael Jordan the AfricanAmerican community, one voice has been noticeably silent until now.

Michael Jordan, arguably the world’s most famous athlete, is speaking up and at the same time putting his money where his mouth is, offering two $1 million

the past for not speaking out on cultural issues, said he could no longer remain silent.

“As a proud American, a father who lost his own dad in a senseless act of violence, and a Black man, I have been deeply troubled by the deaths of AfricanAmericans at the hands of law enforcement and angered by the cowardly and hateful targeting and killing of police officers,” said Jordan.

Just as with his donations, Jordan also toed the line of condemning police violence against African-Americans and showing support for law

enforcement.

“Over the past three decades I have seen up close the dedication of the law enforcement officers who protect me and my family.

I have the greatest respect for their sacrifice and service. I also recognize that for many people of color their experiences with law enforcement have been different than mine,” said the six-time NBA champion.

With the recent killings of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile, two African-Americans killed by police officers – Castile, killed in Falcon Heights by a St. Anthony police officer – and the

subsequent killings of police in Dallas and Baton Rouge, many athletes have used their celebrity and sport as a platform to advocate for social change. The Minnesota Lynx wore t-shirts in support of Black Lives Matter and the Dallas police prior to its July 9 game against the Dallas Wings.

That game was prior to the killing of Baton Rouge police officers, which occurred on July 15. The team, along with several other WNBA teams, was fined $5,000 and each player $500 for their choice to speak out. Last week those fines were rescinded.

Prior to Jordan’s

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announcement NBA stars Carmelo Anthony, LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Paul jointly called for an end to police brutality and the retaliatory violence during the recent 2016 ESPY Awards.

In his statement, Jordan said he hopes by speaking out and through his donations he can contribute to healing the nation’s ethnic divide.

“I have decided to speak out in the hope that we can come together as Americans, and through peaceful dialogue and education, achieve constructive change,” said Jordan.

insightnews.com

Insight News • August 1 - August 7, 2016 • Page 3

COMMENTARY Another Country: Examining violence at home from afar

By Keith Johnson “The earth also was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence.” – Genesis 6:11 “And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force.” – Matthew 11:12 I work in a remote indigenous area called Bamaga. This is located at the farthest northern point of the state of Queensland and the continent of Australia. This community may have 2,000 people in it, give or take some. I teach at the high school and this is my second year teaching at this school.

My home base is just to the south of the city of Brisbane.

Australia has essentially been my home since March 2009.

Finding my love online in 2007, spirit guided me to make a leap of faith to come and meet her in person. Blessings abound. It has been a fantastic, exciting, challenging, but so very rewarding journey that continues. After working as a teacher for one year in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates in 2010-2011, we were able to lodge a visa in September of that year. Using a lot of patience and perseverance, my permanent resident visa was finally granted in January 2015.

I remain an American citizen. I always will be. I hold an American passport. I voted in the presidential election in 2012 by absentee ballot and will do the same in 2016. My parents, siblings, three children, along with other family and scores of friends still live in America.

The internet and Skype are vital connectors to those that I love, especially with working in such a remote place.

Social media also is a way to attempt to keep my finger on the pulse of what is going on in my country. The national news in Australia does report and has correspondents in the United States, usually based out of Los Angeles.

More and more these days, certainly in 2016, the breaking news that comes out of the United

Keith Johnson States, especially the stories of violence, mostly of the gun variety, is now making the top of the news.

Of course, the international stories of “terror” attacks, especially in places frequented by Australians, are played over and over, seared into everyone’s consciousness.

The time difference here is 14 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time. Since I am from Minneapolis, the 15-hour time difference is what runs in the Timex of my brain. Many of the breaking news stories are presented on the morning national news shows. Lately, unfortunately, my thought has been “What will be the breaking news from the U.S. today?”

Upon hearing the news of the death of Prince, a very loud audible “no” rang out. I Didn’t know him intimately, but do know so many people who do and did meet him briefly. That is one of those events most will remember where they were and what they were doing when they heard.

That is one kind of breaking news. The other, breaking news of violence is almost becoming more of the “norm.” France, Belgium.

Turkey. Iraq. Syria. Different countries in Africa have all been sites of “terror” attacks. They get everyone’s attention. The mention of terror evokes thoughts and all kinds of emotion about Islam and specifically Muslims. Islamic State

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Our condolences to those slain, and appeal for reform We, the members of the Omicron Boulé of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, offer our condolences to the Castile and Sterling families on the untimely deaths of their loved ones, Philando and Alton.

We are outraged, horrified and saddened by the tragic killings of more African-American men at the hands of law enforcement officers.

We are also similarly aggrieved by the recent murders of police officers in Dallas and Baton Rouge and offer our condolences to the families of those fallen officers.

These senseless killings must stop.

We add our voices to those demanding change and a critical examination of the current state of our criminal justice system, most notably, the circumstances and conditions that contribute to the disturbing and increasing frequency with which the lives of African-American men are interrupted as a result of encounters with law enforcement. We call for our national and local leaders to advocate for and secure meaningful reforms that restore the sanctity of all lives and that hold accountable those – especially those entrusted with the responsibility of protecting and serving – who act with a biased indifference against the welfare of any member of our community. These reforms must

go beyond the surface and address the underlying root causes of the issues that disproportionately impact communities of color, namely, those of concentrated poverty, under-resourced schools and inadequate economic opportunities.

We stand ready to engage with all who share a vision for a better tomorrow. It is our belief that real change can only occur as a result of constructive dialog and a commitment to listening and learning from our many perspectives regarding how to best realize that vision.

This letter is signed by the executive committee of the Omicron Boulé of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity on behalf of our 50 members.

Signed, Calvin Allen, Edina; the Rev. Alfred Babington-Johnson, Minneapolis; Kenneth Charles, Golden Valley; Walter Chesley, Eden Prairie; Woodson Fountain, Edina; Carson Funderburk, Plymouth; Jerome Hamilton, Woodbury; Ronald James, Plymouth; Leo Lewis, Jr., Eden Prairie; Cornell Moore, Edina; Bryan Phillips, Minnetonka; the Hon. David Washington, St. Paul.

Corrections Stakes high in primary elections In the print version of an article that appeared in the July 25 – July 31 edition of Insight News on the upcoming Aug. 9 primary elections, Mohamud Noor was incorrectly identified as a current member of the Minneapolis Public Schools board. The article should have identified Noor as a former board member of the Minneapolis Public Schools.

The truth unheard In the print version of an article that appeared in the July 25 – July 31 edition of Insight News highlighting the works of summer interns in the Minneapolis Public School’s Office of Black Male Student Achievement program, a student was incorrectly identified in a photo. Royaire Holliday was incorrectly identified as Malik Riley.

has become the words that are used in many acts of “terror,” even if it is not necessarily the cause or the real reason for the violent act.

The news that has now been breaking from the U.S. involves gun violence. Mass killings in Orlando and the court house in Michigan were all leading stories.

Then the last couple of days of a much needed two week break in between terms, on July 7, July 8, and July 9, the violence of the police shootings of Black men, Alton Sterling in Baton Rouge, then Philando Castile in Falcon Heights, along with the sniper attack on police officers in Dallas, exploded on the news and the internet.

With Alton Sterling, seeing

the cell phone footage (could only watch once), the posts and coverage on Facebook, then seeing the gut wrenching news conference where Sterling’s 15-year-old son broke down, was overload for me. I had to close my laptop and disconnect for a few hours. When I had recharged, what was the first thing to greet me when signing back on? It was the live footage from Diamond Reynolds’ cell phone, showing Philando Castile bleeding out, basically dying before our very eyes … the officer standing at the window, gun still drawn. Ms. Reynolds commentary as this was going on and the fact that there was a 4-year-old in the back seat … a 4 year old … was too much. I could only watch this

once. The building tension I could feel all the way across the Pacific.

There was no downtime from this volcanic eruption of violence.

Then in North Minneapolis, a story breaks on the internet about a 2-year-old shot and killed and a 15-month-old injured in gang related shootings. Babies. How is this? Why? So many questions.

How much more is what I am saying? There was more. Then on the internet first, a friend in Dallas, on Facebook, makes a brief post about “an active shooter.” Breaking news is then coming from Dallas, about “shooters” and that people were injured and officers were dead. Five officers ended up

VIOLENCE TURN TO 5

Page 4 • August 1 - August 7, 2016 • Insight News

insightnews.com

EDUCATION Harvest Network kicks off campaign featuring Minnesota Teacher of the Year The Harvest Network of Schools has launched a two-month campaign to demonstrate that African-American students can be high achievers.

With PSAs, student profiles, alumni of the schools and a short video featuring Minnesota Teacher of the Year, Abdul Wright, Harvest Network seeks to pierce the narrative that suggests that African-American children cannot learn at high levels and

they can demonstrate success in school and life. The campaign is titled “Does Your Student Have the Wright Teacher?”

Harvest Network schools have nearly 1,300 predominantly low-income African-American scholars in three schools – Harvest Preparatory School, Best Academy and the Mastery School.

“We are very excited to use this campaign to celebrate Mr. Wright because he represents

The Harvest Network of Schools

Abdul Wright

the very best of what teaching is about,” said president and CEO, Eric Mahmoud. “He represents transformation. He has transformed his own life from one of personal challenge to receiving our state’s highest teaching honor.

He transforms his students’ lives by accelerating their emotional and intellectual growth. He is one of the many great teachers at the Harvest Network of Schools.”

Wright was named Minnesota

Teacher of the Year last May in a program coordinated by Education Minnesota. He is the youngest recipient, the first African-American male, and the first teacher from a charter school to win. He teaches 8th grade language arts at Best Academy, where he started in 2011.

“I am honored and humbled to be part of the campaign to tell the community what a great place for students and teachers the

Harvest Network is,” said Wright.

“It’s important for our students— and all students—to believe in themselves and to know that they have the ability to learn and be successful. That is what we try to instill in our students every day.”

The PSAs and student profiles are expected to run on local television stations, social media and the Harvest Network’s website. The campaign will run through Oct. 1.

Minnesota charity supports Ethiopian library Commentary

By Kellen Kebaara OROMIA, Ethiopia – On any given evening during the school term you will find the Nedjo Public Library in Oromia, Ethiopia, bursting with users, many times filled to its capacity of 300 and often handling up to 70 other users with no place to sit.

The fact that the library is open 12 hours a day, 7 days a week does not seem to help with the congestion.

Most visitors are regulars such

Gadiyon Metwos

Said Kadir

Sisay Donis

Tolessa Nega

as the teachers from neighboring schools for whom the reference resources and Internet services are

a treasured goldmine, or pupils like Said Kadir and Gadiyon Metwos, who find the library an excellent

location for studying.

Said is in grade 12 reading natural science. Coming to the

library daily has helped him develop good reading habits and improved his grades. It gives him

the chance to exchange ideas with his counterparts and prevents time wasting.

“Here, there are no distractions from my family, which is a good thing if you are preparing for exams,” said Said. “And besides, my relationship with my mother is at its best; she knows where I am all the time.”

Gadiyon, who is in grade 10, says physics is his best subject.

Coming to the library every day is something he knows he has to do if his dream of becoming a pilot after

LIBRARY TURN TO 5

Comcast and HUD collaborate to close the digital divide PHILADELPHIA – Comcast and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) ConnectHome initiative took a step to close the digital divide in America.

Now, public housing and HUD-assisted residents living in Comcast’s service area are eligible to apply for Internet Essentials, the company’s high-speed Internet adoption

program for low-income families. Including homes covered by Comcast’s pilot public housing expansion announced in March, an estimated total of up to 2 million HUD-assisted homes, including public housing, housing choice voucher, and multifamily programs, will now have access to low-cost Internet service.

“ConnectHome is opening

doors of opportunity for our next generation of Americans,” said HUD Secretary, Julián Castro. “(This) announcement has the potential to transform the lives of hundreds of thousands of kids across the nation by giving them the tools to reach their full potential.

We’re grateful to Comcast for joining the ConnectHome initiative, which has extended its reach to more than 1.5

million children in one short year.”

“This announcement reaffirms Comcast’s determination to make a meaningful impact to close the digital divide for low-income families in this country,” said David Cohen, senior executive vice president and chief diversity officer of Comcast.

“This is the single largest expansion of the Internet

Is your child ready for SCHOOL? Choosing a school for your little one is one of the most important decisions you’ll make!

The Harvest Network of Schools is a nationally-recognized leader in delivering culturally-affirming, enriching education through a growing portfolio of K-8 public charter schools in North Minneapolis.

Schedule a tour with one of our admissions counselors to determine the best fit for your child!

Now Enrolling K-8

612.876.4191

Welcome to the Neighborhood!

Tuesday August 2 : 6pm-9pm Join The Mastery School for National Night Out with lots of food, fun, games and great giveaways!

PLUS! Check out the 89.9 KMOJ stage with music, special guests and your favorite radio personalities!

Come out and meet your neighbors...and enjoy the last few days of summer!

For more information call: 612.876.4191 www.themasteryschool.org

Essentials program in its history, and we’re thrilled to be working with HUD to help connect even more families, including seniors, veterans, and adults without children, to the transformative power of having Internet service at home.”

Between 2009 and 2014, broadband service providers spent more than $422 billion on capital investments, and three in four American households now use broadband at home. Despite this, one in four American households still don’t access the Internet at home, particularly lowerincome families with children. According to the 2013 American Community Survey, less than 43 percent of individuals without a high school diploma or equivalent lack home Internet access.

This is the ninth time in five years Comcast has expanded eligibility for Internet Essentials. The policy change marks the first time, nationally, households without children eligible to participate in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) are officially

able to apply for Internet Essentials.

Earlier this year, another pilot program extended Internet Essentials to those living in public housing in Miami, Nashville, Philadelphia, and Seattle.

Comcast has expanded the number of schools where every student in the school will be deemed eligible for the program so long as a certain percentage of the kids in that school are NSLP eligible – from 70 percent, to 50 percent, and now to 40 percent. As a result, Comcast estimates auto-enrollment now applies to about half of the 48,000 schools across its service area.

Internet Essentials provides low-cost Internet service for $9.95 a month plus tax; the option to purchase an Internet-ready computer for less than $150 and multiple options to access free digital literacy training in print, online and in-person.

For more information, or to apply for the program, visit www.

InternetEssentials.com or call (855) 846-8376. Spanish speakers should call (855) 765-6995.

IT-Ready grads employed at 90 percent rate The Creating IT Futures Foundation reports that 90 percent of Twin Cities ITReady certified graduates were employed in the information technology (IT) industry one year after completing the program.

As part of the city of Minneapolis’ TechHire initiative, the free IT-Ready program trains, certifies and places unemployed and under-employed adults into their first jobs in the IT field.

The accelerated tech-training program is offered at no cost to students ages 18 or older.

“During the past four years of the program in the Twin Cities, 90 percent of our certified graduates are still employed in IT occupations one year after graduation, whereas nationally, typical workforce development programs average closer to 33 percent job retention after one year,” said Charles Eaton, CEO of Creating IT Futures.

“We attribute our success to a five-part strategy to recruit, assess, train, certify and place students with more than 60 local employers. Many other industry training programs don’t screen applicants as heavily as we do, and don’t have the close connections with potential employers, helping transition graduates directly into full-time career opportunities.”

The next eight-week ITReady class will be held in Edina, starting Oct. 10.

Applications will be accepted through Sept. 19 at www.

ITReady.com. IT-Ready will host two information sessions, Thursday, Aug. 4, at 10 a.m. and Tuesday, Aug. 23, at 10 a.m. for potential students to learn more about the program.

To register for the information session, email knordmeyer@ comptia.org.

In IT-Ready, students get hands-on labs taking apart and building desktop computers and other hardware, learn about motherboards, printers, peripheral devices, memory and physical storage, connections and mobile devices, set up computer networks and troubleshoot networks, displays, printers and operating systems, configure operating systems and hardware and secure networks, systems and data.

IT-Ready students also receive targeted professional development in key business “soft” skills such as professional communication and presentation, teamwork and collaboration and critical thinking and problem solving.

After completing their training, students sit for the CompTIA A+ certification exam, which covers desktop and help-desk technical support duties and skills.

IT-Ready students receive free tuition, books and learning materials, more than 240 hours of classroom and hands-on tech and soft skills training and certification vouchers toward the CompTIA A+ exam.

The class in Edina will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. every weekday beginning Oct. 10.

insightnews.com

Violence From 3 losing their lives. A dozen cops were injured, as well as people at this rally. Initial reports said there were three people in custody and one “shooter” remained in parking garage, engaged with police in a standoff. The shooter then is dead after the standoff. He does not take his own life. He is blown up by an explosive device used with a robot.

Doesn’t that create another entire set of variables for the U.S.?

There have been three more officers shot and killed in Baton Rouge. These executions done by an ex-Marine, who says he had no affiliation with any group. He was bothered by the violence against black citizens by the police and was, as he said, just looking for justice.

After this shooting, when President Obama spoke to the media, for the first time in his two terms, I saw weariness … something that was beyond sadness, disappointment, frustration.

Then there was the slaughtering of civilians in Nice, France. Eighty-

Library From 4 college is to come true.

“I am learning to focus and to manage my time, and I cannot afford the time to hang out with friends,” said Gadiyon. He also likes the reference books, which are not available at his home.

Said and Gadiyon are fond of the internet services, which they credit for improving their computer skills and changing the way they view the world.

Since 2015 the library has come to acquire a special significance to a new cadre of clients. These are the adult students like Tolessa Nega and Sisay Donis who are enrolled in distance learning and weekend classes with Wollega University. For this group, 613 of whom are in distance learning and 150 in weekend classes, the library is a gateway to a better life. And the 10 miles or more that some of them have to travel to get to the library is worth it.

Nega is a father of four and is in his 40s. He is taking a master’s program in teaching English as a foreign language. To him, the library is giving a service to people who thirst for education.

“If this library was not here, I would not have had that opportunity, and to me that opportunity is worth more than money,” said Nega, who teaches English at Nedjo Preparatory

Insight News • August 1 - August 7, 2016 • Page 5 four were dead, hundreds injured.

This received a lot news coverage here in Australia because among those injured were Australian citizens. A failed coup attempt in Turkey has claimed hundreds of lives. Talk of the death penalty being brought back to this country for the first time in some 30 years has been mentioned.

Being in another country gives you a different perspective of this violence. At least it does give me a different feeling.

Violence does not have different frequencies, one frequency for this type of violence, one for that type. There is no separation of this from the collective whole. All of these acts of violence represent a form of terror. Just because ISIS claims responsibility, that does not separate its acts of violence from police shooting citizens, citizens shoot police, citizens shooting each other, domestic violence, whatever form that violence may take. Fear and terror are related and work together in unison.

This jolt in our world, right now, my belief, is that it is the unseen world, the spiritual world.

Too many violations of the basic

commandments given to us on life and the respecting of life have, and continue to occur. There really is no earthly explanation for what is happening at this time. There have been too many debit withdrawals from God’s bank of humanity and not enough credits. The animal world and the earth we inhabit has also been groaning and creaking.

We have fallen down as God’s chosen caretakers.

What do we do to get back up … to put some credit back in the account? We must examine our hearts. We ask, “Do we love our neighbors as ourselves?” Do we “do unto others as we would have them do unto us?” Are we gentle in our speech? Do we help one another when we see a need? Are we “our brother’s keeper?” All of these questions can and must be asked in order for this frequency of violence to be quelled. Humanity has the capacity; the ability. Does it have the want and wear with all?

I’ll quote the late great Michael Jackson. “I’m starting with the man in the mirror, I’m asking him to change his ways.”

School. “My goal is to provide quality education to my students, and maybe also one day I will proceed to the next university level.”

Sisay Donis is a lecturer focal point at Nedjo Agricultural and Veterinary College. He is working on a postgraduate degree in international relations. Like everyone else at the library he is looking for a better future, and he believes that the library gives the knowledge to make that possible.

“For me, this library has already changed my life; it gave me the courage to imagine that the future could be different,” said Donis.

Donis is very grateful for the help from Books for Africa – a Minnesota based nonprofit – and other supporters, who he says have contributed to empowering people to help themselves. He has some suggestions too.

“Of course, we would wish for more computers and that the books were up to date,” said Donis.

He believes that it would be great to focus on science books and computer resources for teenagers, particularly resources that will help drive girls to science. “We should now think of how we can work to help empower girls and provide them with the books and information that will show them proper role models. This library can transform the life of girls in this town,” said Donis.

This little library has a lot of work to do to satisfy the needs of

the 200,000 member community it serves. Its resources are inadequate.

It is difficult, for example, to imagine how its 14 computers are shared during the peak periods; how the large weekend classes are accommodated or how it manages without a photocopy machine. A little bit of the crowding problem will be eased when Jarso, Ethiopia, which is 18 miles away, eventually builds its library, but that will make only a small dent in the demands on the Nedjo library.

The community is committed to seeing the library succeed and grow. Their dream is that one day it will be a modern reference facility supported by a digital learning center, which they would like to build on the open lot adjacent to the library. That is quite ambitious given that the level of investment that would be required would be difficult for them to raise. But according to Jote Taddese, the Nedjo library project coordinator and a Books for Africa Board director, “We would be failing these children if we stopped trying and just gave up. And I believe that it is our responsibility to provide them with the tools, skills and knowledge that will empower them to function as global citizens and to be the leaders and innovators they are capable of being. The dreams I have for my three boys are the dreams I have for the Nedjo children.”

Kellen Kebaara, a Books for Africa supporter, visited the Nedjo library recently.

Page 6 • August 1 - August 7, 2016 • Insight News

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BUSINESS Three ways to elevate volunteer engagement FUNdraising Good Times

By Mel and Pearl Shaw How can you increase the time, money and expertise available to your nonprofit?

Some of us want to increase the hours in our days from 24 to 30. Others believe “cloning” is an alternative. We understand the lament “not enough hours in the day” and so we offer a proven solution – elevate your volunteer engagement program. Here are three things to consider.

Leadership Your volunteer

engagement

program should be led by an individual who is as talented and experienced as your chief fundraiser. This is not a position for an entry level employee who is new to your organization.

When your volunteer engagement program is successful, it can result in meaningful investments of time, talent and expertise. Volunteers can transform programs, open new offices, redesign (or create) your evaluation program, update budgeting and bookkeeping methods, provide legal strategy and counsel, and more. But this doesn’t happen overnight, and it doesn’t happen without consistent attention. The value and impact of volunteers depends on the quality of your preparation.

Preparation Before engaging volunteers, identify areas where volunteers can make a difference. Volunteers

Taking the time to build a volunteer engagement program can yield impressive results.

make a great impact on fundraising activities such as special events, phon-a-thons and direct mail, but there are other ways they can transform an organization. Review your strategic plan to identify the agreed upon areas of growth.

Reflect on conversations about the vision for your organization.

Cultivation and retention How you prepare to engage volunteers will influence how well you cultivate and retain them. Like fundraising, volunteer recruitment is 90 percent preparation and 10 percent solicitation. Once you have identified the right people with the right skills to help you with a specific, well-defined project, you can then begin the

What is holding you back?

Identify the skills, experience and relationships needed to implement your plans. Carefully consider who would be ideal volunteers to complement your staff and board.

Create short job descriptions that outline the goals your organization is seeking to reach and the ways

Stadium

Mel and Pearl Shaw are the authors of “Prerequisites for Fundraising Success” available on Amazon.com.

David Mortenson, chairman of Mortenson Construction. “This was not just about bringing jobs, it’s about starting careers.”

To that point, Ravi Norman, CEO of Thor, said this level of participation can’t end with the completion of U.S. Bank Stadium.

“What’s happening next is what’s really important,” said Norman. “What happened with the stadium was greatly important, but it’s a short-term stimulus.

The push has to be for additional opportunities. We’re not going to have mega stadiums coming along all the time. If we don’t fill the demand for long-term opportunities the people will become disillusioned. On the other side of hope is resentment.”

residents, taking away potential jobs from area labors – many who are people of color.

“This project put thousands of people to work and thanks to the Minnesota Sports Facility Authority board and Mortenson Construction it put a lot of people of color to work,” said Gov. Mark Dayton. Mortenson was the lead builder on the project and it worked closely with Thor Construction – a black-owned firm – and others to complete the stadium buildout.

“The fact that minority-, women- and veteran-owned businesses participated to the tune of $240 million paid out on this stadium and we had 37 percent people of color, has been unheard of in this state,” said

From 1 the old Metrodome was mandated to have 32 percent minority workforce participation and six percent women participation.

According to MSFA numbers, the project topped out with a 37 percent minority workforce and women at 10 percent. Of the 37 percent minority participation, 10 percent was African-American labor. According to KelmHelgen, 90 percent of the workers permanently reside within the state.

That number is key because past major construction projects were accused of shipping in white non-

A look from the end zone of the newly opened U.S. Bank Stadium.

process of introducing them to the work of your nonprofit, and asking for their help. Meet in person with each volunteer and share the vision and goals of your nonprofit, and the specific project you would like assistance with. Offer each volunteer the opportunity to “own” the project and take the lead. This is different from asking someone to complete a task and report back to you for approval. The person responsible for volunteer engagement should be dedicated to following up with each volunteer and facilitating the resources she needs to help your organization be successful.

Taking the time to build a volunteer engagement program can yield impressive results.

in which each volunteer could help you reach those goals.

Be prepared to use volunteer management software to track skills and engagement. This will become part of the infrastructure that supports your volunteers. A volunteer orientation program, assessment process, evaluations, policies, procedures and a benefits and public promotion program are other aspects of the infrastructure you should put in place.

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Insight News • August 1 - August 7, 2016 • Page 7

HEALTH Let’s move to end childhood obesity

By Gloria Freeman

INSIGHT NEWS

deficiencies can cause developmental problems among our infants and toddlers, along with long-term effects that can lead to challenges with achievement in school and emotional issues.

According to the institute, children age three and under who grow up in food-insecure families are 90 percent more likely to have fair or poor health rather than good or excellent health, 31 percent more likely to spend time in the hospital and 76 percent more likely to have problems in cognitive, language and behavioral development.

In the coming weeks and months, I will endeavor to share creative, innovative solutions to our community’s most pressing childhood development issues on the pages of this highly esteemed, historic newspaper. I know it’s sometimes difficult to give even a cursory thought about – or glance at – issues such as childhood development when the sounds of gunshots still ring fresh in our ears from our fellow community members who are unnecessarily killed at the hands of police officers, and yes, sometimes each other.

However, when it comes to our babies, even in the face of an often unkind and painful world, it is of the utmost importance that

we continue to shape a healthy and fruitful future for the littlest ones among us. And, one of the easiest, kindest ways we can help pave a triumphant, healthy path for our children is to load up their plates at the earliest ages with colorful, vibrant fruits and veggies.

At Olu’s Center, a new childcare and senior day facility located in the former City, Inc. building in North Minneapolis, we use organic formula or mother’s breast milk along with organic grain cereal for our infants, followed by steamed, fresh veggies and puree for our babies. We start with serving fresh veggies from our very own on-site garden. We do not buy, nor do we serve baby food.

All of us can work together to eliminate food insecurity.

Even though feeding our children healthier foods may sometimes lead to short-term money insecurity, making the investment in our children at the earliest age will pay off in spades. I look forward to seeing you on these pages next week. Until then, let’s give our babies the greatest gift of all. Let’s Move.

Associate Editor Culture and Education Dr. Irma McClaurin

Childhood obesity rates in America have tripled, according to Let’s Move, the childhood obesity prevention initiative championed by first lady, Michelle Obama.

According to the Let’s Move initiative, in the AfricanAmerican community alone, nearly 40 percent of the children are overweight or obese. Among young African-American children, more than 11 percent of children ages two-five are already obese.

Let’s Move tells us what most of us already know – that obesity can cause chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure.

The Let’s Move website states, “Children need 60 minutes of active and vigorous play each day, (and suggests) serve fruit or veggies with each meal, substitute water or low-fat milk for sweetened beverages and pick a vegetable (children) like and find different, tasty ways to prepare it.”

Clearly, research, data, and common sense tells us there is no substitute for including fruits and veggies when planning for a wellbalanced diet for our children.

But, the reality is healthy foods,

Associate Editor Leadership and Social Enterprise Dr. Anita Davis-DeFoe

Marshall Smith will oversee state-operated health systems

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Marshall Smith Marshall Smith has been named health systems chief executive officer in direct care and treatment at the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS).

Gloria Freeman including fruits and veggies, tend to cost more. It’s true, in the short-term, fruits and veggies do cost more. However, the longterm cost of not serving our children a well-balanced diet is much higher, for families and society.

Many of us are familiar with money insecurity, relationship insecurity and emotional insecurity. But, did you know there is actually a formal definition of food insecurity?

According to the Urban Child Institute, “Food insecurity is not the same as hunger. Foodinsecure families are often able to avoid hunger by choosing cheaper, more filling types of food over more costly nutritious foods. For young children, the result is often a diet that provides

Smith will oversee stateoperated facilities and programs that provide mental health treatment and be responsible for leadership aimed at improving patient care and outcomes, enhancing and strengthening quality and compliance and overseeing medical services.

“Marshall brings a wealth of experience and expertise as a leader in health care,” said Human Services Commissioner Emily Piper.

“He truly understands and appreciates the unique nature of our hospitalbased programs, the challenges we face and our dedication to providing the very best care to our patients.”

inadequate nutrients for normal growth and development.”

The Urban Child Institute reports that a family fits the description of being foodinsecure if they can’t afford nutritious meals, shrink the size of meals because of an already shrunken pocket book and/or alter the quality of foods they eat because of financial insecurity.

Initiatives such as Let’s Move often talk about the importance of feeding our children fruits and veggies to prevent childhood obesity, but there are more reasons to introduce our children to healthy foods at the earliest of ages beyond the concern of weighing them down with extra body fat.

The Urban Child Institute informs us that nutritional

Smith will guide the work of state-operated mental health treatment programs across the Minnesota. This includes a network of 16-bed community behavioral health hospitals as well as the Minnesota Security Hospital in St. Peter and AnokaMetro Regional Treatment Center, two of the state’s largest mental health care facilities.

Together, 1,800 employees work at these locations.

Smith has served as a top executive in a variety public, nonprofit and for-profit hospitals and health-care systems across the country. Most recently, he operated his own health-care consulting business. He holds a bachelor’s degree in nursing and master’s degree in health care

Gloria Freeman is president/ CEO of Olu’s Center and can be reached at gfreeman@ olu’shome.com.

administration.

Piper said Smith’s dual combination of clinical and management skills is a real advantage for the agency.

“He’s an experienced health care practitioner and seasoned administrator and will be a great addition to our hospital-based programs,” said Piper.

You belong.

Photography David Bradley

The health plan with you in mind.

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Page 8 • August 1 - August 7, 2016 • Insight News

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LIFESTYLE

The truth about juicing contain carrots, beets or other vegetables with high doses of beta-carotene, you can develop a condition called “carotenosis,” a disease that causes skin to become a yellowish-orange tint.

When making juices, try to make just enough for one setting.

If not consumed right away, juices can develop harmful bacteria and cause food poisoning. Also, make sure to wash fruits/vegetables thoroughly to remove pesticides, dirt and bacteria. Very dangerous bacteria can live on your fruit and make you sick.

A couple of my favorite juice/ smoothie recipes are:

The Orange Moon

By Michelle Mitchum, MPH. HHP Within recent years, juicing has become the “thing to do.”

The trend is not without benefit, as there are great healing properties of juicing. Juicing is a great way to add the nutrients from fruits and vegetables that you may not eat normally.

There are claims that juicing can prevent cardiovascular disease, cancer and arthritis. Also many fruits and vegetables contain a compound of flavonoids, which has great oxidative properties that protect against cellular damage.

While juicing is a great alternative to eating fruits and vegetables, it is not a good idea to juice with the

Cress From 1 championship 4x100 relay team of Minneapolis’ Edison High School, it doesn’t matter how she made it to the Olympics, but that she made it to the Olympics.

And now that she is going, reality is setting in.

“It didn’t really hit me until recently and I was sitting in my room by myself and I started crying and saying, ‘I’m really going to the Olympics,’” said the bubbly Cress.

Cress, whose best time in the 100 meter is 12.78 seconds, said her goals are not to win – though that would be nice – but to compete hard and positively represent the Marshall Islands and Minneapolis.

intention of sustaining your health by only consuming juices.

Fiber from fruits and vegetables is vital to maintaining a healthy digestive system, so be aware of claims that juicing is enough to keep your body healthy.

Also, do a little research before you jump into juicing. If your juices contain mostly sweet fruits or very little vegetables, you can actually put yourself at risk for developing diabetes. Or, if you frequently make juice blends that

“I’m just excited to get the experience,” said Cress. “My goal is to break my personal record. I just want to have fun and meet other athletes. I want to meet Usain Bolt.”

Cress arrived in Brazil this past Sunday (July 31) and will be there until Aug. 24. Her mother, Briana Cress, will join her later in the week, stay for the race and depart a few days later. Briana Cress said she’s still in disbelief that her daughter is a soon-to-be Olympian.

“It’s kind of surreal. It’s monumental,” said Briana Cress.

The Marshall Islands is only sending a handful of athletes to compete in the 2016 Olympics and for Mariana Cress, her selection wasn’t a lock. She was pressed by an unlikely competitor.

“There was this girl who was

a wrestler and she didn’t qualify in wrestling, so she switched to track and I’m like, ‘Oh no, she’s not about to take my spot,’” said Cress, who said her friends motivated her to train harder. “If I’m having a day when I’m not motivated they say, ‘Girl, you about to go to the Olympics. You better get out there and train.”

Mariana Cress isn’t the first Olympian in her family.

Her father, Roman Cress, represented the Marshall Islands in the Olympics in 2008.

Beyond this year’s games, Cress hopes to earn a college track scholarship and four years from now compete in the 2020 games.

“Hopefully they’ll (Marshall Island Olympic Committee) send me again,” laughed Cress.

Green Goodness (juice) • ½ cup of kale • ½ pear • 1 small peeled lime • 1 ½ cucumber • ¼ fresh pineapple Red Sunshine (smoothie) • ½ small beet • 1 banana • ½ cup mango • 1 cup of mixed berries • 1 cup spinach • ¼ small ginger root Incorporating juicing into your lifestyle is a great idea; just be sure to do a little research before beginning.

Michelle Mitchum MPH, HHP, is a graduate of Morgan State University, (Baltimore, MD) and the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, (New York). She has been featured on Fox Business News, Essence Magazine and is a contributing writer to Heart and Soul Magazine as well as other notable publications. In 2013 she founded the OrangeMoon Holistic Health and Wellness to empower people to make intelligent and informed decisions about their health and to introduce and educate clients on holistic lifestyle alternatives.

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Insight News • August 1 - August 7, 2016 • Page 9

COMMUNITY The Way celebrates 50th Anniversary

Minnesota Lynx announce Xcel Energy Center as home for 2017 season The Minnesota Lynx announced that the Xcel Energy Center will be the team’s venue for home games during the 2017 season.

The team will relocate due to the previously-announced major renovation and complete shutdown of Target Center taking place during the summer and early fall of 2017.

“Our fans will enjoy the experience and amenities that Xcel Energy Center has to offer, while eagerly anticipating the conclusion of our newly renovated home in Minneapolis in time for the 2018 Lynx season,” said Chris Wright, Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx president.

“I’m thrilled to be welcoming Minnesota’s three-time WNBA champions to the city of St. Paul for their 2017 season,” said St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman. “The Lynx are a powerhouse of a team, and an amazing group of athletes

Concert From 1 Haughton draws its sound from its varied influences that include Bob Marley, The Beatles, Peter Tosh, Black Uhuru and Steel Pulse – all of which were evident

Hayden From 1 senseless violence. Sen. Hayden said the violence affecting the African-American community has

DNC From 1 were the mixed emotions of joy and sadness. But according to Minnesota delegate and Hillary Clinton supporter, Husniyah Dent

to watch – and we hope fans from across the state enjoy doing so from the capital city.”

The Xcel Energy Center is home to the NHL’s Minnesota Wild and host to more than 150 sporting and entertainment events each year.

“We are proud to welcome these world-class athletes to our building for the 2017 season,” said Jack Larson, Xcel Energy Center vice president and general manager. “The Minnesota Lynx are a great addition to the wide variety of events Xcel Energy Center has become known for hosting and represent our commitment to the community and fans from around the state.”

“We are excited to bring the Lynx to St. Paul and to provide free access to thousands of young people in our community,” said Pat Harris, chairman of Visit St. Paul.

“It’s a win-win for all.”

“For a Moment We Had The Way” by Rolland Robinson tells the story of The Way Unlimited, Inc. A celebration of The Way’s 50th anniversary takes place Aug. 6 at the Urban Research and Outreach-Engagement Center (UROC), 2001 Plymouth Ave. in Minneapolis.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of The Way Unlimited, Inc., founded in 1966 at 1925 Plymouth Ave., which is now occupied by the Minneapolis Police Department Fourth Precinct.

The Way, an organization for social justice and political change, offered programs in African-American studies, poetry, art, dance and music and in 1967 brought the celebration of Kwanza to the Twin Cities. Several community activist and leaders either furthered their platform or got their start at The Way. People such as Mahmoud El-Kati, Dr. Josie Johnson, Harry “Spike” Moss, Vusumuzi Zulu, Nothando Zulu and Verlena Matey-Keke all came through The Way. At one point during The Way’s existence a Hennepin County grand jury indicted The Way’s leadership for “coddling criminals” for teaching Black history classes in prisons in the state. Muhammad Ali once visited The Way during a trip to Minneapolis, as did James Brown and Amiria Baraka.

A celebration of The Way will take place on Saturday (Aug. 6) from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Urban Research and Outreach-Engagement Center (UROC), 2001 Plymouth Ave., Minneapolis. The celebration will offer panels from former members and instructors of The Way and members of Black Lives Matter.

during the energetic two-set show at Bunker’s. The Bunker’s show was one of a series of shows in the Twin Cities that included gigs at the Cedar Cultural Center and the Open Streets festival in Minneapolis.

The show at Bunker’s featured the Twin Cities iconic reggae band, Ipso Facto as the

opener. Ipso’s show and body of work stands alone, but this one was a bit more special as Ipso’s Wain McFarlane, Greg McFarlane and Julian McFarlane are cousins to EarthKry’s Phillip McFarlane.

The impromptu family reunion was a bit sweeter as Greg McFarlane is just a few months

removed from receiving a new kidney from his niece, Angela Tieh, who was also there to see Ipso and EarthKry. Wain McFarlane is also a kidney recipient … a kidney he received from his niece (and sister to Angela Tieh), Yai Tieh.

The audience filled with family, friends and general lovers

of reggae danced until the wee hours with EarthKry performing tunes from its latest CD, “Hard Road.” Haughton’s vocals and masterful guitar riffs blended with the dynamic playing of McFarlane, Cunningham and Blake; and combined with the evening temperatures in the mid80s served as a virtual island

getaway for the folks “up north.”

And while the vibe was light and fun, lyrics from songs such as “Hard Road” and “Revolution” and “Fight” let everyone know there’s a message in the music.

EarthKry hit several other major cities on its U.S. Tour, including shows in New York and Chicago.

to end.

“The question isn’t just about the guns, it’s about why do some people feel the need to lash out at one another in such destructive ways,” asked Sen. Hayden.

“Where are we as a people when we don’t respect innocent women, children … babies like

the child that was killed a couple of weeks ago (in Minneapolis) and bystanders?”

Sen. Hayden said his sister was a shining light whose bulb was dimmed far too soon.

“Taylor had just begun her career with Enterprise Leasing in Houston; she just purchased

her car. She graduated from Prairie View A&M (Texas). She really had the world at the palm of her hands,” said Sen. Hayden.

“We are killing our seed core.

We’re losing our next Barack and Michelle Obamas, our next Steve Jobs, possibly our cure to cancer (with the murders in the African-

American community).

Ms. Hayden was an alumnus of Seed Academy, Fair Schools and Wayzata High School and was a Jack and Jill debutante. Ms. Hayden was the daughter of Joyce Hayden and Dr. Peter Hayden, executive director of Turning Point, Inc., an encompassing

chemical dependency treatment facility in North Minneapolis.

Additionally, Ms. Taylor Hayden leaves behind sisters Erin Hayden and Sidney Hayden.

Ms. Taylor Hayden was laid to rest this past Saturday (July 30) at the Living Word Church in St. Paul.

Bradley, the biggest emotion was a feeling of optimism with the belief that the party is unified and will deliver the presidency for Clinton come November.

“People have the belief that they are being a part of history in electing the first woman president,” said Dent Bradley.

“There were quite a few people

upset that Sen. Sanders didn’t get the nomination – some people walked out after the rollcall vote and turned in their (convention) badges – but a lot of people are saying they will support Hillary Clinton despite their candidate not getting the nomination.”

Dent Bradley said third party candidate Jill Stein was at the convention hoping to woo disgruntled Sanders supporters and a few large demonstrations took place, but by the convention’s end, overall, most were aligned with Clinton after several of Sanders’ positions were adopted

into the party’s platform.

The Minnesota delegate said the Wednesday keynote speech of outgoing president, Barack Obama, was by far the most moving moment of the convention. Dent Bradley, who is African-American, said seeing the president give his last great speech in office brought tears to her eyes.

“I also noticed almost all the African-American delegates stood up for his whole speech,” said Dent Bradley. “It was definitely emotional. I teared up a bit just thinking about how

different it has been having the Obamas in the White House. I was both happy and sad.”

With less than 100 days to go between now and the Nov. 8 presidential election the race has tightened between Clinton and Trump. Following the Republican National Convention

several polls showed Trump leading Clinton – moving ahead of her in key battleground states such as Ohio and Pennsylvania.

Jumps in the polls are typical following conventions, so Clinton is expected to poll higher coming out of Philadelphia and heading into the debates.

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Minnesota Housing is a trusted state agency that works with ůŽĐĂů ůĞŶĚĞƌƐ ƚŽ ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞ ĂīŽƌĚĂďůĞ ŚŽŵĞ ůŽĂŶƐ͘ 'Ğƚ ŽŶ ƚŚĞ ƌŝŐŚƚ ƉĂƚŚ ǁŝƚŚ ŚŽŵĞďƵLJĞƌ ĞĚƵĐĂƟŽŶ ĂŶĚ counseling programs. Then use our ůŽǁ͕ ĮdžĞĚ ƌĂƚĞƐ and downpayment loans up to $10,000 to make homeownership ǁŽƌŬ ĨŽƌ LJŽƵƌ ďƵĚŐĞƚ͘

'Ğƚ ƐƚĂƌƚĞĚ ƚŽĚĂLJ ďLJ ǀŝƐŝƟŶŐ www.mnhousing.gov.

Classifieds REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) NO. P16007 – HOUSING CHOICE VOUCHER – FAMILIES OUT OF SHELTER PROJECT BASED VOUCHER INITIATIVE – PROPOSALS DUE BY 8/29/16 AT 2:00 PM CST

Minneapolis Public Housing Authority (MPHA) invites proposals for HOUSING CHOICE VOUCHER – FAMILIES OUT OF SHELTER PROJECT BASED VOUCHER INITIATIVE. MPHA plans to allocate up to 50 vouchers for Project Basing for the specific purpose of creating subsidized affordable housing for lowͲincome families with children in Minneapolis who are residing in Hennepin County homeless shelters.

Proposals shall be submitted to Minneapolis Public Housing Authority, Attention: Ayla LeRoy, 1001 Washington Ave N, Room 204, Minneapolis, MN, 55401. Proposal responses are due by August 29, 2016 at 2:00 PM CST.

RFP documents are available for viewing and downloading on MPHA’s website under Contracting Opportunities at www.mphaonline.org. Monitor the MPHA website for any addenda. MPHA reserves the right to reject any or part of a proposal, accept part or all of a proposal, and to waive any informality in the selection process in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. All costs of proposal preparation and submittal shall be borne by the proposer.

MINNEAPOLIS PUBLIC HOUSING AUTHORITY EQUAL HOUSING/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AGENCY

Phone: 612.588.1313

Financial Technician

The U.S. District Court, District of MN is accepting applications for a full-time Financial Technician in Minneapolis, MN. Salary range is $41,551 – $67, 534. For more information visit the court’s website, www.mnd.uscourts.gov, Employment.

An Equal Opportunity Employer

Fax: 612.588.2031

Architect/ Project Architect Candidates must be graduates of accredited architecture programs with 5-15 years of experience and licensure in process or completed.

Architectural Intern/Designer Candidates must be graduates of accredited architecture programs with 3-5 years of experience and licensure in process or completed.

Manager of Casework Services

Interfaith Outreach is hiring a Manager of Casework Services. This position is a leadership position supervising 7 case managers working with over 2000 families per year.

The Interfaith Outreach work environment is client centered, values driven, team orientated, fast paced, diverse and focused on learning and professional development.

We have a strong internal culture of collaboration and team support and a deep commitment across staff to mission. Apply here: http://iocp.org/about/open-positions.

We are looking for creative, energetic team players who are passionate about design to join our multi-studio practice. Professional growth opportunities are available in aviation, academic, civic/cultural, lifestyle and workplace. Experience with Revit is required. Experience with AutoCAD is desired.

Please submit cover letter and resume to Stuart Stephens at careers@alliiance.us. Portfolio excerpts or electronic links are also welcomed. AA/EOE Employer. www.alliiance.us. We thank you in advance for your interest!

Email: info@insightnews.com

Minnesota Council of Churches ACCOUNTING CLERK, 20 hours/week. General accounting, AP, AR, financial reporting. Open until filled. Appl at http://www.mnchurches.org/about/employment.html.

Child Care Assistant Volunteer/ Volunteer Drivers Make a difference in the life of a child. The Mothers First program provides prevention and intervention services for pregnant women who are abusing chemicals. Mothers First is seeking a Child Care Assistant volunteer to help agency staff in providing supervision and care for the children with our Mothers First program while mom is attending counseling sessions. Volunteer Drivers are also needed to provide transportation to mothers in recovery to/from groups with our Mothers First program.

Reimbursement for mileage is provided. Contact Ramsey County Health & Wellness Service Team — Volunteer Services at 651-266-4090 for additional information or e-mail to HumanServicesVolunteer@co.ramsey.mn.us.

Mail Room Assistant

Help this large social service agency’s mail room operation by processing returned, incoming and out-going mail. Flexible daytime shifts available Monday through Friday.

Volunteers must be at least 16 years of age.

Contact Ramsey County— Volunteer Services at 651266-4090 for additional information or e-mail to HumanServicesVolunteer@ co.ramsey.mn.us.

Page 10 • August 1 - August 7, 2016 • Insight News

insightnews.com

Jovonta Patton debuts at No. 1 on Billboard’s gospel album chart

By Harry Colbert, Jr. Managing Editor Kirk Franklin, Shirley Caesar and Marvin Sapp move over, there’s a new name atop the gospel charts and he’s from right here in the Twin Cities.

Jovonta Patton is not signed to a major record label, he doesn’t have any retail distribution and he hasn’t even filmed a video for his

newly released album, “Finally Living.” But that didn’t stop him from debuting on the Billboard charts at No. 1.

With the July 15 release of “Finally Living” – the North Minneapolis resident’s second solo project – Patton’s sales earned him the top spot on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums chart. He said the success of his latest project is mostly due to fan support on social media.

“Social media has changed

the game,” said Patton, who also hosts a gospel show on KMOJ. “I was on Facebook mostly, but Twitter, Instagram and Snap Chat too, and all I did was talk about my album and the people kept liking and sharing my posts. I haven’t even made one flyer, so to outsell Kirk Franklin, Tasha Cobbs …

Shirley Caesar – even if it’s only for one week – is amazing.

Social media is also how the singer first learned

his album was No. 1.

“I got tagged in a Facebook post from Donald Lawrence (the Grammy-winning artist and producer who worked with the likes of Donnie McClurkin, Kirk Franklin, En Vogue and Mary J. Blige) saying congratulations for having the No. 1 gospel album, so that’s how I found out,” said Patton.

Patton said although he put out his album independently, that wasn’t

necessarily his first choice.

“I met with every major label doing gospel music and they all said no for various reasons; either their roster was full, or they felt I was too similar to another artist, so I just kept doing what I was doing and stepped it up a notch,” said Patton. “When the guy from Billboard called me, he said I did it (reached No. 1) the Master P way – straight out of the trunk; just

my trunk was social media.”

Patton isn’t the only Twin Cities artist on the charts.

Out of St. Paul, at No. 16 on the Top Gospel Albums chart is “iBelieve” by Steven Daniels and the Shiloh Gospel Choir. That project of the Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church debuted weeks ago and has been rising consistently.

“Finally Living” is available for purchase online at Patton’s website, www.jovonta.com.

Billingsley: ‘Pay what you can’ music classes

By Harry Colbert, Jr. Managing Editor With schools across the nation cutting courses in the arts due to dwindling budgets and other reasons, many don’t have access to arts training that could be critical to one’s development.

Those who have access to training often do so via private lessons – lessons that over time can cost thousands. No money, no lessons, therefore the world could be missing out on the next Quincy Jones, the next Alecia Keys, the next Misty Copeland … the next Prince.

David Billingsley is not about to allow that to happen.

Billingsley, the talented and entertaining keyboardist of area soul/funk/party band, MPLS has opened the Billingsley School of Music and Arts (BSOMA) and at BSOMA, money is not a barrier to arts education.

Students are encouraged to pay what they can. In some cases it’s the full (but nominal) fee of $6 per class. In other cases the fee is nothing. For Billingsley and the other instructors at BSOMA the reward is not in dollars made, it’s in lives transformed.

“In the times we’re living in I refuse to talk about

another problem. I’m all about action,” said Billingsley.

“We have to be (about action). This work is critical.”

The groundwork for BSOMA was laid a couple of years ago, however the project stalled for various reasons. But with the April 21 passing of Prince, an artist who Billingsley greatly admired and who he played for on multiple occasions, Billingsley made sure this time the doors to BSOMA – housed in the Cowles Center for Dance and Performing Arts, 528 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis – would open.

“If there’s any way to honor the life and legacy of Prince it’s to start a school that continues the tradition of the Minneapolis Sound and teach it to the next generation,” said Billingsley.

Billingsley is not alone in his efforts to share knowledge to those of lesser means. Offering classes in music, dance, visual arts and fashion, BSOMA instructors include MPLS bandmate and Mint Condition drummer, Brandon Commodore, KMOJ’s DJ Chuck Chizzle, renowned painter, Kenneth Caldwell, designer Felicia Perry, drummer, Arthur “L.A.” Buckner, and The Julliard School graduate, dancer Hassan Ingraham, just to name a few.

David Billingsley At just 31 years of age, Billingsley credits his arts education with him earning more than $500,000 in his lifetime. He hopes his school can offer careers to those who

otherwise may not have had an opportunity to receive an education in the arts.

“My parents spent $20,000-plus on my music training. By the time I was

18 I had earned $60,000,” said Billingsley. “I want to do that for someone else.”

BSOMA classes are held on Saturdays at the Cowles Center and this session

runs through Aug. 27.

Dates for a fall session have not yet been announced.

For more information, visit www.bsoma.org.

insightnews.com

Insight News • August 1 - August 7, 2016 • Page 11

Breaking the silence: How Maya Washington is redefining inclusion and protest in the arts on how police violence has impacted our communities; how it has impacted the deaf community. It was truly an act of solidarity,” said Washington. “But here we are a year and a half later and it’s in our backyard.”

Her voice cracked a little as she noted that Castile worked a few blocks from Penumbra’s location.

The lines between art, history and inclusion blur when it comes to Washington. She’s currently working on a documentary about her father, former NFL player Gene Washington. He was one of a few AfricanAmerican players who played a critical role in helping

By Sagirah Shahid Contributing Writer Maya Washington shapes her hand into the American Sign Language word for “yes” to indicate the audio on her end of the Facebook Video application is working just fine.

It’s a Sunday afternoon and Washington is in Los Angeles working on her latest film project and has agreed to speak with us remotely. The only problem is the video application is misbehaving.

Initially, we can’t hear a word she says.

Those brief moments of tech-induced silence feel oddly appropriate; Washington has spent the better part of her career generating and curating art that seeks to improve the alliance of the hearing creative community with the deaf creative community.

For the most part, the multitalented actress/ director/playwright/poet/ producer has been successful in utilizing her eclectic skillset to facilitate these sorts of conversations.

Most notably, an awardwinning short film she wrote and directed.

“White Space,” is a film that follows the journey of a deaf spoken word artist who performs an impassioned poem to a hearing audience entirely in American Sign Language (ASL). Washington said the film created an opportunity for the deaf and the hearing to work together in a creative space. She’s also quick to point out that her role as an ally isn’t to come in and tell the community what it needs. Her role is to listen and to be intentional about being inclusive.

“There isn’t a whole lot of effort to reach out to voices from the disability community. We hear about diversity quite a bit as a buzzword, but rarely is that conversation including the disability community,” said Washington.

Washington’s first experience with deafness in a creative space was as a teenager. Growing up, her family was one of the only Black families in

Kelsey Daly

Maya Washington at the first Twin Cities Black Poets Speak out event, which happened in 2015

to integrate the sport at the college level. The film, “Through the Banks of the Red Cedar” includes a clip of her first “Black Poets Speak Out” event. Her father is in attendance and there are ASL interpreters. Washington reflects on theses parallels.

“I’m writing for the little girl 50 years into the future … people who will have their own set of challenges, who are going to need to look back and say ‘wow, this is what happened then. Let’s make sure it doesn’t happen again.’”

“Through the Banks of the Red Cedar” is set to release in 2017.

White Space Poetry Project

A shot from Maya Washington’s movie, “White Space.” her Twin Cities suburban neighborhood. Oftentimes, said Washington, this experience made her feel “othered.” Even though she pursued and excelled at dance and theater at a young age, it wasn’t until she started taking college courses through the Post-Secondary Educational Option, that she felt truly at home in her art.

“My junior year of high school I started taking courses at the University of Minnesota and was consciously choosing things like AfricanAmerican theater and women’s (literature),” said Washington. “There was no way I would be able to take these courses at my suburban high school.”

It was at the university, during a modern dance class, where Washington met a deaf young woman

in the class who would eventually became her friend. The friendship left a lasting impact on young Washington.

Now, a graduate of the University of Southern California’s undergraduate acting program and with a Master’s of Fine Arts in poetry from Hamline University, the adult Washington brings a certain level of intersectional intentionality in all the work she does.

Recently, she organized a “Black Poets Speak Out” event at Penumbra Theater in St. Paul. The event was a response to the recent deaths of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling, two African-American men killed by police. At the event, Washington made sure ASL interpreters were center stage.

The event was painfully reminiscent of an earlier “Black Poets Speak Out.” In January of 2015 Washington helped organize the Twin Cities’ first “Black Poets Speak Out” at Penumbra, which was in response to Mike Brown’s murder.

“We were able to speak

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Page 12 • August 1 - August 7, 2016 • Insight News

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STORYTELLING The Art of Neighborly (National Night Out) 49th Avenue and Humboldt Avenue North, Minneapolis 8 p.m. $15 Aug. 1 - 7

Aesthetically It! is a list of picks from the editors of Aesthetically Speaking.

Aesthetically It! features venues, events, outings and more that are worthy of “It” status. If you have a venue, event or outing that you feel is “It” worthy, email us at aestheticallyit@ insightnews.com

Monday, Aug. 1 DJ NIGHT Mondays with Jumonday Acadia Café 329 Cedar Ave. S., Minneapolis 8 p.m. – 11 p.m.

Jumonday spins classic R&B, reggae, and hip-hop vinyl every Monday in August at Acadia Café.

The Art of Neighborly, is a fun, family-friendly, housing justice oriented National Night Out event on the Humboldt Greenway in North Minneapolis. There will be an in latable bouncing castle (for kids), sidewalk chalk (kids and adults), water balloons (kids and adults), light refreshments, a DJ, performances, community development speakers, a housing justice rally and more.

Wednesday, Aug. 3 JAZZ Sasha Masakowski Dakota Jazz Club 1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis 7 p.m. $17 - $21

Saturday, Aug. 6

“You’re My Latest, My Greatest Inspiration” and (of course) “Love TKO” – all performed with a 14-piece orchestra.

FITNESS

Sunday, Aug. 7

Drakula with DJ sets

by Wndrlnd and Dro.

Tuesday, Aug. 2

Circle of Discipline

Sasha Masakowski was born into a family of musicians in New Orleans and has been a leading voice on the New Orleans music scene since 2009, when she was awarded “Best Emerging Artist” by the Big Easy Association.

Thursday, Aug. 4

Birthday Party Sushi Tango – Calhoun Square 3001 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis 10 p.m. – 2 a.m.

21-plus Come celebrate with Dan Verve (Tryg’s, Independent) as he spins vinyl hip-hop and soul classics for his 44th birthday.

2nd Annual Get FIT Challenge Circle of Discipline, Inc. 1201 E. Lake St., Minneapolis 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Circle of Discipline 2nd Annual Get FIT Challenge involves various physical itness events such as running, walking and various aerobic exercises. The goal is to promote physical itness and living a healthy lifestyle.

LIVE MUSIC

HIP-HOP/ PERFORMANCE Rescheduled EPMD Fine Line Music Café 318 1st Ave. N., Minneapolis $27 Originally set for Aug. 4, this show has been rescheduled to Saturday, Aug. 20.

HIP-HOP/DJ DJ Dan Verve’s 44th

Friday, Aug. 5 DANCE NIGHT Mario Party 6664 The Cabooze 917 Cedar Ave. S., Minneapolis 9 p.m.

18-plus $5

Love TKO – A tribute to Teddy Pendergrass Cowles Center for Dance and Art 528 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis 8 p.m. $29-$34

A mainstay of regional R&B music, Johnnie Brown pays tribute This whacky party to the late Teddy features performances Pendergrass.

by Prollytris, Chance Audiences can expect York, Lux + Longley to hear favorites such and Gym. The night as “Close the Door,” is hosted by Mac

DAY PARTY Shed G’s Day Party 7 Sushi Rooftop 700 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.

21-plus Free Shed G is back with another day in the sun on the rooftop of 7 Sushi.

R&B/SOUL/ PERFORMANCE Rescheduled Chrisette Michele Mill City Nights 111 5th St. N., Minneapolis 7 p.m.

Once again the Chrisette Michele show has been rescheduled. The Grammy Award winning powerhouse was set to come Aug. 7 but for a second time the show has been rescheduled – this time not until Feb. 17 of next year. We’ll see if she inally shows.

JOIN US AND HELP BRING OUT THE BEST OF OUR TWIN CITIES.

There’s no place like the Twin Cities. Great parks and trails, excellent food and the best people to hang out with. It’s why we’re working with local leaders to make our community an even better place to live, work and play. From connecting you to fun, free events to helping you live comfortably and independently, we’re helping you get the most out of life here in the Twin Cities.

Get to know us at aarp.org/twincities

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