WINNER: 2020 T YPOGRAPHY & DESIGN, 1ST PLACE, PHOTOGRAPHY (PORTRAIT & PERSONALIT Y), 1ST PLACE, WEBSITE, 3RD PLACE
Insight News
December 6, 2021 - December 12, 2021
Vol. 48 No. 49• The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com
DeAnna Perkins
New leader at Harold Mezile Community YMCA
Calling Northsiders back to community By Brandi Phillips The YMCA located on West Broadway in North Minneapolis, has been a mainstay in the community for over four decades - helping to provide food, fitness, recreation, and congregation to community members, with the goal of continuous growth and improvement. The Harold Mezile Community YMCA is ever-changing. As the Y continues serve - under new leadership- the development of new programming to fit the needs of members, will be a big part of the mission. You know the saying, “There’s a new sheriff in town?” DeAnna Perkins (formerly Smith), is Harold Mezile North Community YMCA’s new sheriff. As the newly appointed Executive Director, she is eager to continue youth programming and bring the over forty crowd back to the location. With an education, sports, and a community
involvement background going back to her childhood, Perkins told Insight News, “I am really passionate about community, youth work, and bringing the city together through systems of the community. I am grateful to be back at the place that I grew up. I am trying to make sure our children have the same opportunities growing up, that I did in North Minneapolis. My goal is to bring those who grew up participating in our past programs, back to participate in our current programs.” Perkins, a wife and mother of two, grew up in North Minneapolis, and attended North High School, where she participated in volleyball and swimming., She is known to be an athlete among her peers both at North High School and at the YMCA. So coming back to get this career position is a full circle moment. Although physical fitness programs are a part of her vision, she said, “We had to shift our focus from just working out, weights, and fitness programs to the
holistic approach to health and wellness. We have brought on a therapist to help with trauma, not only within our youth and our members, but also within our team. We want it to be a place for the whole community to feel safe and get heathy.” Maintaining community trust and integrity as well as staying true to the mission of the YMCA are important to Perkins. With physical and social programming for youth in grades K-12 a consistent focus across decades, the North Community location under Perkins’ leadership, will also provide focused programming for the over 40 population. Forever Well, is the current program designed for older adults and includes virtual and in-person activities such as cooking, networking socials, swimming lessons, and acupuncture. Some older adults may qualify for a free membership based on their health insurance provider. As mental health concerns and lack of arts funding continue to increase
across the nation, Perkins wants to adapt programming to fit the needs of the community. Along with therapy options, she is adding more arts programs and a tech center with cricket machines, podcast equipment, sewing, robotics, and music studio equipment that will all be a part of the Mezile Community location in the near future. Harold Mezile was a long time mentor, and Executive Director working at YMCA branches in both Misouri and Minnesota. The Harold Mezile North Coummity YMCA is just one of many branches of the YMCA of the North. Here is how the St. Paul and Minneapolis become one organization and The Harold Mezile Community YMCA was estblished. • 1844—George Williams organizes the first YMCA in London to meet the practical and spiritual needs of young men relocating to London during the Industrial Revolution. • 1851—First U.S. YMCA opens in Boston
• 1856—St. Paul YMCA founded • 1866—Minneapolis YMCA founded • 1975—The original North Community YMCA opened on West Broadway • 2009—The Y Center on Broadway Opened • 2012—Minneapolis and St. Paul YMCAs merge, forming the YMCA of the North • 2014—The Y Center Renamed to the Harold Mezile North Community YMCA Partnerships are a part of the growth process for the YMCA. For future projects, Perkins would like to add more partnered programming. She is looking forward to building camps that occur during student academic break times (spring, summer, and holidays). These camps may possibly include biking, dance, art, sewing and other activities. Setting a positive example for youth by following the positive leadership of older adults is also a goal of Perkins’ team. “We want to be examples of professionalism; developing
each other. We want you to come back and hang out with us; Come back and workout with us; Comeback and play ball with us; Come back to the Y. Let’s make the Y what it used to be, for our entire families,” she said. The location is prime for members to get to. It is on the bus line and right in the heart of the Northside. Whether you are looking for youth programming, fitness and technology for those over 40, or activities for older adults, the Harold Mezile Community YMCA is working to fulfill the needs of the community, while focusing on improving our overall holistic health and wellness. For more information you can call 612-588-9484. You can also visit the website at https://www.ymcanorth.org/ locations/north_community_ ymca Brandi D. Phillips is a freelance writer, mom of two, life partner, and lover of adventure. If you have any questions about this article, you can reach her at wellifethreesixty@gmail.com.
Page 2 •December December 6, 2021 - December 12, 2021 • Insight News
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WINNER: 2020 T YPOGRAPHY & DESIGN, 1ST PLACE, PHOTOGRAPHY (PORTRAIT & PERSONALIT Y), 1ST PLACE, WEBSITE, 3RD PLACE
Insight News December 6, 2021 - December 12, 2021
Vol. 48 No. 49• The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com
Weekly monoclonal antibody appointments will increase; MOA vaccination site to increase capacity to 2,000 doses per day
Minnesota to expand monoclonal antibody treatment, vaccinations
Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, State Rep. Ruth Richardson, DFL 52B, Former State Senator Jeff Hayden and Dr. Peter Hayden at bill signing at Capri Theater in North Minneapolis last Monday.
Photo by Rebecca Rabb
First in nation
Bill creates murdered and missing Black women and girls task force Columnist
By Brenda Lyle-Gray The Chinese use two brush strokes to write the word crisis. One brush stroke stands for danger; the other for opportunity. In a crisis, be aware of the danger, but recognize the opportunity. the late John F. Kennedy Minnesota Governor Tim Walz last Monday signed into law a bill creating a task force to explore why the statistics on missing and murdered Black girls and Back women are so staggering. Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan, Public Safety Commissioner, John Harrington, State Representative, Ruth Richardson, and a room almost filled to capacity joined Walz in a press conference at the Capri Theater in North Minneapolis to question why the lives of Black women don’t command the same attention from law
enforcement, the media, and city and state leadership as their white counterparts. Richardson, who penned a large segment of the bill, said Minnesota will be the first state in the country to bring attention to the crisis. She said it took two legislative sessions to bring the bill to fruition. “When I first became a St. Paul police officer at the Western District,” said Commissioner Harrington, “the murder rate was the highest in the city’s history. I met a lot of moms and Nannas from the Black community in particular whose worlds were shattered by the disappearance of a child or a loved one. But that’s not what started my career in law enforcement. It was an early meeting with Anita Carter and Joy Freeman with “Breaking Free” who showed up at our office to talk to me about human trafficking and the disappearance of young girls and women in the St. Paul area. Since 1996, the organization has helped thousands of women escape prostitution through survivor advocacy, empowering them to build new lives. I also met with Neita Pressley, a mother from
the Aurora St. Anthony block club, whose murdered daughter’s body was left in a cornfield in Wisconsin.” Harrington said while 13% of Minnesotans are African Americans, some 30% of murder victims are African American women. “We have seen Black women shot and killed in both St. Paul and Minneapolis and in a manner never experienced before. We know a few things. We know that Black women die of homicide at twice the rate of the general population of women. We know that cases involving Black women tend to receive less attention from both law enforcement and from the media. As of this week, nationally, 543,000 women are are missing and 33% or 145,000 are people of color.” “What we know right now is that we don’t know enough about missing Black girls and women or those who have been murdered,” said Richardson. “What we do know is that in the U.S., somewhere between 64,000 and 75,000 Black girls and women are missing. We know that cases involving Black girls and women stay open four times
longer than other cases on the average. Black girls are less likely to receive an Amber alert -- which means there are no Amber reports that will get the media’s attention, as is common for a white girl. Black families don’t get the same resources if their child is classified as a runaway versus a child who is missing and in need help.” Richardson said structural deficiencies need to be addressed in how we respond to domestic violence, human trafficking, law enforcement, sexual exploitation, and economic exploitation. Dr. Peter Hayden, founder and CEO of Turning Point, described how his daughter was gunned down on an Atlanta, GA street by an unknown assailant. “For a woman who carries a baby for nine months, delivers that child, and twenty-five years later that child is dead, how do you explain the why? But understand,” he said, “in many cases, there are fathers like me right there watching that child being born and loving that child every day of our lives. I have three daughters and a son, but
TASK FORCE 4
After guilty verdicts, civil rights leaders exhort Black America to ‘Never stop running for Ahmaud By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia After nearly two years of pain, suffering, and wondering if the men who killed Ahmaud Arbery would pay for their heinous crime, the 25-year-old’s family finally received justice. A Glynn County, Georgia, convicted Travis McMichael, Gregory McMichael, and William Bryan of felony murder. “Guilty. Guilty. Guilty,” civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump exclaimed. “Nothing will bring back Ahmaud, but his family will have some peace knowing the men who killed him will remain behind bars and can never inflict their brand of evil on another innocent soul,” Crump continued. NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson called the verdicts long overdue. “Ahmaud Arbery’s death was unnecessary and fueled by racist ideologies
deeply engrained into the fabric of this nation,” Johnson insisted. “Generations of Black people have seen this time and time again, with the murder of Emmett Till, Trayvon Martin, and many others,” he continued. “The actions and events perpetrated by the McMichaels and William Bryan leading up to Ahmaud’s death reflect a growing and deepening rift in America that will be its undoing if not addressed on a systemic level. “We must fix what is genuinely harming our nation: white supremacy.” The jury found Travis McMichael, who shot Arbery in February 2020, guilty of all nine charges, including malice murder and four counts of felony murder. The panel found his father, Gregory, not guilty of malice murder but convicted him on felony murder, unlawful imprisonment, and other charges. Bryan escaped a guilty verdict on malice murder, but the jury found him guilty of three felony murder counts, aggravated assault, false
“The violent stalking and lynching of Ahmaud Arbery was documented on video for the world to witness. Yet, because of the deep cracks, flaws, and biases in our systems, we were left to wonder if we would ever see justice,” said Attorney Ben Crump. imprisonment, and criminal intent to commit a felony. The men, who also face federal charges, could spend life in prison when sentenced. Judge Timothy Walmsley bound the men over and will soon set a sentencing date. Immediately following the announcement of the first guilty verdict against Travis McMichael, Arberry’s father, Marcus Arbery, shouted, “long time coming.” Judge Walmsley asked court officials to
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BIPOC college students need structured supports to graduate
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the senior Arbery. “Ahmaud Arbery should be alive today. This tragedy should have never happened,” said Florida Congresswoman Val Demings, who is a Democrat. “I am keeping his family in my prayers. But we must move forward together to dispel the shadows of our past and to ensure the safety and civil rights of every American,” Demings asserted.
AHMAUD 5
Governor Tim Walz last week announced the arrival of a federal medical team to increase the availability of the COVID-19 monoclonal antibody treatments for Minnesotans and expand capacity at the state’s popular Mall of America community vaccination location. Governor Walz requested the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) medical team to bolster the Administration’s strategy of providing even more COVID-19 tools to Minnesotans by vaccinating everyone who is eligible and providing lifesaving treatments to those who are sick. “We have powerful tools at our disposal to fight COVID-19: getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and others from the virus, and treatments like monoclonal antibodies can help sick Minnesotans get better. To make sure more Minnesotans can access these life-saving vaccines and treatments, we requested and have received significant support from FEMA,” said Governor Walz. “I am grateful for our ongoing partnership with Biden Administration – and I urge
Gov. Tim Walz Minnesotans to take advantage of these opportunities to stay safe from COVID-19. Get your shot if you haven’t yet. Get a booster right away if you’re eligible. Get tested if you are feeling ill so you can get the treatment you need.” “I am continually impressed by Minnesotans’ strong interest in getting their children vaccinated and receiving their booster shots, and I am deeply thankful for effective COVID-19 treatments like monoclonal antibodies,” said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. “This FEMA team will help more Minnesotans get their shot and receive treatment if they need it. I thank the Biden
VACCINATIONS 4
Malcolm X
Investigators exonerate men convicted in the 1965 assassination of Malcolm X By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia Two of the men found guilty of the assassination of Malcolm X had their convictions thrown out on Thursday, the Manhattan district attorney, and lawyers for the two men said, according to the New York Times. The stunning reversal recasts history and reopens the case of the slaying of Malcolm X, who died in a hail of gunfire at the old Audubon Theater in New York’s Harlem area. The exoneration of the two men, Muhammad A. Aziz, and Khalil Islam, represents a “remarkable acknowledgment of grave errors made in a case of towering importance: the 1965 murder of one of America’s most influential Black leaders in the fight against racism,” the Times reported. The newspaper noted that a 22-month investigation conducted jointly by the Manhattan district attorney’s office and lawyers for the two men found that prosecutors and two of the nation’s premier law enforcement agencies — the Federal Bureau of Investigation
and the New York Police Department — had withheld key evidence that, had it been turned over, would likely have led to the men’s acquittal. The two men, known at the time of the killing as Norman 3X Butler and Thomas 15X Johnson, spent decades in prison for the murder, which took place on Feb. 21, 1965, when three men opened fire inside a crowded ballroom at the Audubon Ballroom in Manhattan as Malcolm X was starting to speak. Earlier this year, the civil rights leader’s daughters formally requested that authorities reopen the murder investigation because of new evidence. “Any evidence that provides greater insight into the truth behind that terrible tragedy should be thoroughly investigated,” said Ilyasah Shabazz, one of Malcolm X’s six daughters. Shabazz and her family cited a deathbed letter of confession from a man who was a policeman at the time of the 1965 killing, alleging New York police and the FBI conspired in the murder. Raymond Wood wrote his
MALCOLM X 5
I2H
The COVID-19 pandemic offers an opportunity to make a healthy shift in body ideals
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Insight News • December 6, 2021 - December 12, 2021 • Page 3
Together with small businesses, we’re helping bring hope to the streets.
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Page 4 •December December 6, 2021 - December 12, 2021 • Insight News
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The U.S. justice system has failed Black America again & now White America is feeling it Culture and Education Editor
By Irma McClaurin, PhD An earlier version published Nov. 24, 2021 on Medium (https://irmamcclaurin.medium. com/the-u-s-justice-has-failedblack-america-again-nowwhite-america-is-feeling-itd4fec8db284b). The latest jury decision that brazenly allowed the Kenosha County, Wisconsin killer to walk free is proof positive that the American justice system has failed. And the judge’s demeanor didn’t only highlighted the obvious—we need judges who can discard their white lens and deliver justice equitably (https://www. nbcnews.com/think/opinion/ kyle-rittenhouse-trial-exposedproblem-electing-judgesncna1284461). But Black America knew that already. Now white Americans are finding out that if they support an equitable and just democratic society as well as #BlackLivesMatter (BLM), they become targets of white supremacist vigilantes—and their deaths will not be avenged by the American justice system. Sidebar to POTUS Biden, you got it wrong big time. (https://www.nbcnews. com/think/opinion/after-kylerittenhouse-trial-biden-stillthinks-jury-system-worksncna1284295) . Take off your white man blinders—the judicial system does NOT work! It is truly broken! I suggest “no comment” next time or hire some #BIPOC press people to review before you put your foot in your mouth!
Task Force From 2 the child who was most like me, who protected me, was the first daughter,Taylor.” Hayden said Taylor “was not raised on the streets. She went to the best schools, graduated from Prairie View A & M, and was a born leader. She was out with a few friends just
Photo by Elena Mozhvilo on Unsplash
Photo by Jon Tyson on Unsplash
True story: a white supremacist young man (Kyle Rittenhouse) goes to a #BLM protest rally with a gun! Somebody dies! No sh*t! That’s the punchline. Those who carry guns expect to use them. There is no authentic self-defense justification that can be used to make shooting unarmed protesters ok! And yet, a 99% white jury—clearly his peers—felt he was justified in killing an unarmed white young protester. No safe space if you are protesting for anyone— Black or white! You are taking a risk! Rittenhouse defense lawyers used the same, lame phrase that white policemen use to justify shooting unarmed Black children, Black women, and Black men: “He feared for his life.” Even though, Rittenhouse was armed, and even though he came from out-
of-town looking to disturb and confront protesters at a #BLM rally he didn’t believe in. In other words, Kyle Rittenhouse, was like a western gunslinger just itching for a fight. And he was gonna get what he came for—another notch on his proverbial white supremacist belt buckle—one way or another. Rittenhouse claims he heard a gunshot and acted in “self-defense.” Gun Reflexif you carry a gun, the odds are 99 to 1 (and I am not a betting woman) that you will use it, even, the situation didn’t require it—gun reflex takes over. But no evidence of another weapon was ever found. No other shooter was arrested. Rittenhouse heard a sound, which he “believed” to be a shot, and responded with his gun. In firing his weapon, Rittenhouse fulfilled his
on a weekend trip when someone close by has a beef with someone else. Shooting breaks out. Bullets fly. and our precious child is hit. When the police came to their door, Hayden said, he “knew Taylor was gone. Many of you are here because you feel my pain, and some of you have your own loss. I just want you to understand that some parents take care of their families and are not prepared to envision their child left bleeding
in the street taken out by someone who didn’t care about the sanctity of life. Taylor is in our hearts today. Her spirit is here in this place.” “We’re gathered here today just a few days after Thanksgiving, the most family focused holiday we celebrate in this country,” Governor Walz said greeting the audience. “Tens of thousands of families are reminded of their loss when they look at that empty chair every single year. To all the family members who are here, thank you for doing what seems almost unimaginable to those of us who have never gone through what you have. You have turned this tragedy into something positive for the entire community. And yet, every time you tell the story, you relive the heartbreak. And every time another young girl is murdered or missing, your heart is ripped out again. Walz said Minnesota needs to tell its whole story and that of Black women. “We need to make sure we are lifting up
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Insight News is published weekly, every Monday by McFarlane Media Interests. Editor-In-Chief Al McFarlane Publisher Batala-Ra McFarlane Associate Editor & Associate Publisher B.P. Ford Culture and Education Editor Dr. Irma McClaurin, PhD. Associate Editor Afrodescendientes Carmen Robles Associate Editor Nigeria & West Africa Chief Folarin Ero-Phillips Columnist Brenda Lyle-Gray Book Review Editor W.D. Foster-Graham Director of Content & Production Patricia Weaver Content & Production Manager Sunny Thongthi Yang Distribution/Facilities Manager Jamal Mohamed Receptionist Lue B. Lampley
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Vaccinations From 2 Administration and federal doctors and nurses for making these resources available in our state.” In total, 16 FEMA personnel are in Minnesota to support vaccination and monoclonal antibody treatment efforts.
afterwards, if he was able to talk. Remember those cases of white policemen wrongly killing, wounding, or arresting Black undercover police simply because they were Black men with guns?! Black people, in the mindset of white supremacist police, NEVER have a justifiable reason to be armed! Lives are changed forever by Rittenhouse’s actions— two white protesters were killed and another wounded for trying to make America a just and equitable place for ALL Americans. There is also Kyle Rittenhouse. He must live his life as an un convicted killer and carry the knowledge that he literally got away with murder! Caveat occisor (killer/ murderer beware). I believe there are balances in the universe, and that karma has a way of catching up with people, who may delude themselves that they have escaped justice, to hold them accountable. Keep Watch! Let’s see what happens with the Arbery trial. Will the American justice system fail us again? Late Update: A jury with similar composition to Rittenhouse (eleven whites and one Black), found the Arbery murderers guilty in Georgia! There is HOPE! (c) 2021 Irma McClaurin (http://irmamcclaurin.com / @ mcclaurintweets) is the Culture and Education Editor for Insight News and in 2015 was selected “Best in the Nation” columnist by the Black Press of America. An activist anthropologist, the American Anthropological Association honored her with a 2021 “Engaged Anthropology” Award. Dr. McClaurin works as a consultant and leadership coach through Irma McClaurin Solutions.
mission—one articulated by the Proud Boys: “stand back and stand by” (https://www.nytimes. com/2020/09/29/us/trumpproud-boys-biden.html). Traveling from Illinois all the way to Wisconsin, with a “semi-automatic “AR15 style rifle”—and being in close proximity to a rally in whose cause he did not believe, civil unrest over the police murder of Jacob Blake (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ Kenosha_unrest_shooting)— Rittenhouse was “standing by” and prepared! His reason for coming is clear— to do harm to those with whom he disagreed with ideologically. Why meet the protestors on their own turf? Why insinuate yourself in their midst, unless the purpose was to disturb their peace? That was his mission, influenced by the 45th and Proud Boys,” all along. Why else bring a gun, if not to disrupt and destroy? And the police at the time of the incident greeted a young white man, clearly armed with a rifle, amidst a #BLM
protest rally, with acceptance and unofficially endorsing him—even handing him a bottle of water, after he explained he just shot someone. Rittenhouse walked casually with his hands up in the air, carrying a rifle in one, confident that he would NOT be shot by his white comrades in arms—the Kenosha County police. The police displayed white solidarity with ham, and did not arrest him, proving that white supremacy is a “whites only” membership social club. White people are automatically enrolled at birth—and those who don’t subscribe to white supremacy and racist thinking, have to work like hell to unsubscribe. Among the club’s membership, racial hierarchy thinking is so pervasive that it’s considered “normal,” even by white law enforcement. In such a white supremacist worldview, it’s ok, even expected, for white people to be openly armed. Had Rittenhouse been Black and openly carrying a gun—no water, he would have been greeted with bullets first from the police; then questioned
Black women. Where’s this story on the news? If tragedy happens to a white woman, it will be on the news for two or three weeks. We must change the narrative to valuing every single woman and girl. Our administration must make sure resources are available. Allow me to be very clear. I will expect a strong critique. If this task force suggests things and it doesn’t happen, I want to hear the loudest voices asking why it hasn’t happened. That’s called accountability.” Flanagan said “We know these issues are not new ones. And we have answered the call to do whatever we can to end violence towards Black girls and women. The task force will rely on the experiences of survivors and their families as it works towards identifying effective strategies that are grounded in community. That has always been Representative Richardson’s vision amplified by her leadership, determination, and tenacity.” Flanagan went on to
thank Senator Koonish and legislators who helped get the bill across the finish line. “As women of color, as indigenous women, and as Black women, we will not be used for political maneuverings. This work should simply be supported and done. We will prove this is possible. And to every task force member and every family member, thank you for making sure this issue was front and center and making sure it got the attention it deserved. We will be beginning an action plan by first listening to the experts and then moving forward. We can make Minnesota a safer place for everyone. When African American girls and women are safe, that makes us all safe. We have a lot of work to do and I’m proud to be in this moment to stand with you to commemorate this incredibly important step,” she said. “For us to be on the forefront of this historic move is paramount, but we also know we have some of the largest disparities in this state and in
this country. And that is why the work must begin here. We know that Black women carry this load. As you are caring for your families and community, you are also caring for the policies and solutions. Let us bear some of that load along with you. This is our collective responsibility. Take care of yourselves in this work, too. We need you in this fight for the policies and solutions that will come afterwards. I’m honored and humbled to stand here with you to do this work. As Representative Richardson said, we’re going to leave this task force with a blueprint for change; a blueprint that will help bring back Black girls and women; a blueprint that will help solve crimes perpetrated against them; and a blueprint that will be able to ensure everyone gets equal access to the services they need when they need them. We are not going to leave anyone behind in the process.”
With the FEMA team’s arrival, capacity at the Mall of America vaccination site will increase from 1,500 doses per day to 2,000 doses. The site is a popular location for Minnesota families seeking vaccinations for 5- to 11-year-olds, as well as fully vaccinated Minnesotans seeking boosters. Since Nov. 3, the site has administered nearly 14,000 doses to 5- to 11-yearolds, and it administered 800 booster doses to adults last week alone. Minnesotans age 12 and up are also receiving their primary series of the vaccine at MOA. The FEMA team will also allow more COVID-19 patients in central Minnesota to receive the monoclonal antibody treatment. The Administration and medical providers around the state are working to increase accessibility of monoclonal antibody treatments. Minnesota has been administering about 2,000 doses of the treatment per week since the beginning of October, and that has been increasing in recent weeks. For the week ending November 24, providers administered over 3,000 infusions for the first time. Last week, MDH expanded hours and capacity
at its St. Paul Clinic and M Health Fairview added about 300 appointments for monoclonal antibody treatment at its Columbia Heights clinic. Together, the measures increased Twin Cities monoclonal antibody treatment capacity by 50%. With the FEMA team’s arrival, Minnesota will be able to further expand monoclonal antibody treatment capacity. Patients and their providers seeking monoclonal antibody treatments can use the state’s online tool, the Minnesota Resource Allocation Platform (MNRAP) that helps match those who most need treatment with available appointments. When demand for monoclonal antibody treatments increases, as has happened recently, the Minnesota health care system will give priority to treating patients who are ill and who have the highest risk of developing severe illness and requiring hospital admission. These sites are not open to walkin appointments. COVID-19 monoclonal antibody treatment can help qualifying patients get better, faster. It is an outpatient
treatment for patients with mild to moderate symptoms that started within the past 10 days, and who are at high risk of their illness leading to hospitalization or death. Learn more at the webpage COVID-19 Medication Options. “Monoclonal antibody treatments are an important tool, but they are not a substitute for vaccination. All those who are eligible should get vaccinated,” said Minnesota Department of Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm. “We are working to ensure every Minnesotan has fair and equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines and monoclonal antibody treatments. Capacity in our health care system is still very tight, so we are thankful for the support of these FEMA staff to help bolster our capacity. We also need all Minnesotans to take steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by getting vaccinated and using the other layers of mitigation such as masking so that we have the health care capacity available to provide COVID-19 treatments to those who really need them.”
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Governor Walz announces first $100,000 college scholarship winner for ‘Kids deserve a shot’ campaign Today, Governor Tim Walz announced the winner of the first $100,000 Minnesota college scholarship drawing for the “Kids Deserve a Shot” campaign is Kaitlyn Knutson of Plymouth, Minnesota. 16-year-old Kaitlyn got vaccinated to stay safe while being able to see her friends and family and doing what she loves — playing hockey. “I chose to get vaccinated because it allows me to be with my friends and family without having to really worry about COVID as much as before,” said ‘Kids Deserve a Shot’ scholarship winner Kaitlyn Knutson. “It also allows me to get to play the sport I love, hockey, while being safe. This $100,000 scholarship means so much to me because it opens up so many more opportunities for myself when picking a college and major.” “Congratulations
to Kaitlyn for getting the protection of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and being our first $100,000 college scholarship winner,” said Governor Walz. “I am proud of our Minnesota kids like Kaitlyn who are rolling up their sleeves to stay safe with family, friends, and doing the things they love — like hockey practice. Get fully vaccinated and get your shot at a $100,000 scholarship.” “Congratulations on winning $100,000 for college, Kaitlyn,” said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. “I love seeing young people join our fight against COVID-19 and do their part to keep themselves, their friends, and their families safe. Getting vaccinated is the best way to stay safe doing the things you love, like hockey practice! All kids 12-17 years old: don’t miss
your shot at $100,000. Enter the drawings once you’ve gotten your second shot!” “As a parent, I can attest that when it comes to our kids, we want them healthy and to have access to every opportunity available for their success,” Minnesota Office of Higher Education Commissioner Dennis Olson said. “With this drawing, Kaitlyn embodies both. Her vaccine will help protect her and others from COVID-19, while the scholarship ensures she is able to pursue whatever career she chooses. I hope this incredible moment for Kaitlyn encourages all eligible students to get their vaccine and earn a shot at one of the remaining scholarships.” As part of the ‘Kids Deserve a Shot’ campaign, all Minnesotans 12-17 years old who have completed their
COVID-19 vaccine series can have a chance to win a $100,000 Minnesota College Scholarship and other Minnesota experiences donated from some of the biggest names in the sports and entertainment industries. Three more drawings will take place over the next month. ONLY 2 MORE CHANCES TO ENTER: Parents and guardians can enter their fullyvaccinated children for the weekly drawings at mn.gov/ covid19/vaccine/vaccinerewards/kids-deserve-a-shot/. Drawing 4 happening December 10, entry deadline is December 6. Drawing 5, last drawing happening December 17, entry deadline is December 13. Parents and guardians must enter their 12-17-year-old by the entry deadline to be eligible for the following drawing(s). Once a kid
Kaitlyn Knutson is entered, they will be included in all following drawings. $200 GIFT CARD DEADLINE TUESDAY: The deadline to register for a $200 Visa gift card was, November 30. Minnesotans 12-17 years old who start and complete their
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two-dose COVID-19 vaccine series between October 18 and November 30 are eligible to receive a $200 Visa gift card. Parents and guardians can register their 12-17-year-old for a $200 Visa gift card online. Registration closes 11:59 p.m. November 30, 2021.
Enrollment is not enough
BIPOC college students need structured supports to graduate By Buffy Smith, PhD Guest Commentary A lot of time, resources, and energy is devoted every year to reimagining how to recruit the next incoming class of college students and attract a more diverse student body. However, if colleges and universities prioritize enrollment numbers over graduation rates, we are sustaining the status quo and the inequities in our higher education system and society. Some of the national wealth and racial inequities witnessed in prior years, and currently across the U.S., stem from a void of structural opportunities for more marginalized groups to graduate with their bachelor’s degrees. For instance, 62% of students from highearning families graduate with bachelor’s degrees versus 13% of students from under-resourced communities, according to 2021 data from the Pell Institute. This huge educational attainment gap is a result of a structural failure in our higher education system, and we need a structural solution. Many universities and colleges are beginning to offer more financial resources to students to attend their institution. However, making college affordable or free is only the first step on the journey
Ahmaud From 2 Crump insisted that Black America must keep fighting for civil rights and justice. “This case, by all accounts, should
Malcom X From 2 responsibility was to ensure Malcolm X’s security team
toward educational equity. The overall dropout rate for undergraduate college students in the United States is 40%, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), and the dropout rate for students of color is even higher. The five-year graduation rate for Black students is only 40.5%, trailing Hispanic or Latino students who have a 5-year graduation rate of 41.5%. That compares to white students who have a 5-year rate of 62.2%. These numbers show the inequities ahead if we don’t address the issues now, given college graduates earn 67% more than non-college graduates, according to 2021 released data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Since college degrees are game changers for individuals, families, and communities, we should focus our attention on graduating more students with bachelor’s degrees within a reasonable amount of time. That’s the goal of Dougherty Family College (DFC), a two-year college at the University of St. Thomas that serves motivated, determined, and resourceful historically underrepresented scholars. In fact, 93% of DFC scholars identify as Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) community members. As the interim dean of Dougherty Family College, I
Mike Ekern, University of St. Thomas
Buffy Smith am proud to see that our average two-year graduation rate at Dougherty is 57% compared to the 31% average Minnesota community college three-year graduation rate (MN Office of Higher Education). In addition, 71% of Dougherty Family College alumni are either enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program or have graduated with their bachelor’s degrees. That’s quite the feat for the young college, which launched in 2017 and has had three graduating classes. Dougherty Family College is an equity missiondriven college created to specifically address the educational attainment gap and workforce gap in the state of Minnesota. It offers the same general and rigorous core
have been opened and closed,” Crump demanded. “The violent stalking and lynching of Ahmaud Arbery was documented on video for the world to witness. Yet, because of the deep cracks, flaws, and biases in our systems, we were left to wonder if we would ever see justice,” Crump remarked.
“[The verdict] indicates progress, but we are nowhere close to the finish line. America, you raised your voices for Ahmaud. Now is not the time to let them quiet. Keep marching. Keep fighting for what is right. And never stop running for Ahmaud.”
were arrested days before he was shot dead in Manhattan, the daughters stated. The men convicted were all members of the Nation of Islam and were each
sentenced to life in prison. At the time of his death, Malcolm X had separated himself from the Nation of Islam. Assassins gunned him down at the age of 39.
Now – Dec 27 612.377.2224 / guthrietheater.org
CHARLES DICKENS adapted by LAVINA JADHWANI directed by JOSEPH HAJ by
courses as the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of St. Thomas, with lower tuition. Almost 50% of our scholars pay approximately $1,030 out of pocket for tuition and fees. This low cost is made possible because of the generosity of our partners and the internal investments of the University of St. Thomas because they believe in our model. For one, we intentionally incorporate our scholars’ voices and interests in designing our college practices, procedures and policies. Additionally, the success story of Dougherty Family College is based on six core structured supports that provide a pathway to graduation: 1. Rigorous Curriculum & Culturally
Responsive Pedagogy 2. Mentoring Scholars through the Hidden Curriculum of Higher Education 3. Cohort Model Fosters a Strong Sense of Belonging 4. Culturally Affirming Wrap-Around Support Services 5. Professional Development and Paid Internships 6. Student Resources: Free Textbooks, Laptop, Meals, and Metro Pass We know that higher education offers the promise of upward social mobility and an opportunity to break the cycles of intergenerational poverty. That’s why diversity, equity and inclusion is part of the DNA of DFC. Although we have a lot of social problems we need to address in our society, we can eliminate the educational attainment gap in our lifetime. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. stated, “there is no deficit in human resources, the deficit is in human will.” Therefore, as a state and nation, we must ask ourselves if we have the human will to provide students from under-resourced communities opportunities to thrive in college and earn college degrees. At Dougherty Family College, we not only believe that college is possible, we believe that with structured and culturally affirming supports,
graduation is inevitable. Dr. Buffy Smith is interim dean at the Minneapolisbased Dougherty Family College. She considers it a privilege to work with motivated, determined, and resourceful historically underrepresented scholars who want to pursue a bachelor’s degree after they complete their associate degree at Dougherty Family College. References Minnesota Office of Higher Education, online graduation report: http://www.ohe.state. mn.us/sPages/GraduationRates. cfm National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) analyzed by educationdata.org: 5-year graduation rate: https://educationdata.org/ number-of-college-graduates Dropout rate: https:// educationdata.org/collegedropout-rates Pell Institute: Indicators of Higher Education Equity in the U.S. 2021 Report: http://pellinstitute.org/ downloads/publicationsIndicators_of_Higher_ Education_Equity_in_the_ US_2021_Historical_Trend_ Report.pdf U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: https://www.bls.gov/ careeroutlook/2021/data-ondisplay/education-pays.htm
Page 6 •December December 6, 2021 - December 12, 2021 • Insight News
Insight 2 Health
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The COVID-19 pandemic offers an opportunity to make a healthy shift in body ideals than leaving it up to chance and forgoing them entirely or doing them too close to my bedtime, which interferes with my sleep. For role models, I look to the behavior of other strong women – such as the women of Girls Gone Strong, an organization that promotes women’s health and strength through fitness – to inspire me to achieve my goals.
By Janet J. Boseovski Professor of Psychology, University of North Carolina – Greensboro The COVID-19 pandemic has changed everyday life for many people in both trivial and profound ways. Embracing pants without a waistband, trying out creative baking – and perhaps spending a great deal of time sitting, whether for virtual meetings or Netflix binges. For many people, these kinds of behaviors, coupled with the ongoing stressors and limitations of the pandemic, translated to pounds gained and newfound or increased feelings of discomfort about body image. It may seem untimely to think about addressing weight loss or body image while still dealing with the uncertainties and pressures of the ongoing pandemic. However, science has shown that living through disasters and personal upheavals often causes a shift in life priorities and thinking more about the value of one’s own life. Science also reveals that life disruptions can be a great time to think about, and bring about, habit change. I’m a developmental psychologist and health coach. I’ve taught university students about cognition and motivation for the past 20 years, as well as about lifelong physical and mental wellbeing. Behavioral scientists find that when these sorts of upheavals disrupt regular routines, it can become easier than ever before to get rid of unhealthy behaviors and replace them with positive changes in personal habits. That said, this isn’t another article about how to
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Behavioral science researchers have found that people tend to have more positive body self-images when they appreciate the body for what it can do – not just how it looks. lose weight. It’s not intended to provoke a knee-jerk reaction like pursuing a Jennifer Lopez rear or Chris Hemsworth-y lats. Instead, I am inviting people to redefine “the ideal body” by better appreciating the body’s functionality – what it can do – rather than focusing mostly on how it appears. Celebrities aren’t good role models According to Merriam-Webster, an ideal is a “standard of perfection, beauty or excellence.” However, respecting and appreciating one’s body for what it can do, rather than how it looks or compares to cultural ideals, can positively influence body image. For example, behavioral scientists have found that exercising for health, enjoyment and wellness is associated with a positive body image and healthy eating habits, while a more negative body image is associated with exercising for appearance-related reasons. There are physical
benefits as well. For example, putting an emphasis on fitness goals, rather than weight loss, has been shown to enhance longevity. Scientists have also found that exercise can reduce an adult’s risks for a severe case of COVID-19 as well as potentially deadly complications. On top of all this, as journalist Charles Duhigg reports in his book “The Power of Habit,” experts have found that exercise is a keystone habit that often supports adopting other positive health behaviors, such as better nutrition. Appearance and attainability As a psychologist, I am aware that we are an appearance-oriented culture. I’m not suggesting that people disregard aesthetic goals. Rather, I’m suggesting that looking to other people to define one’s own body image ideals can be maladaptive. This is especially true when people choose celebrity icons and social media influencers as their ideals. For instance, there’s evidence that comparing one’s
own appearance to images of celebrities is associated with both body image dissatisfaction and disordered eating. Research suggests that the most effective role models are people with whom one identifies or shares some similarities. This makes it easier to set goals that are attainable, rather than focusing on the public images of celebrity icons. Here, too, it is important that the goals are realistic and applicable to people’s own lives. It’s also important that they avoid making appearance comparisons to people that they know, as this can also lead to body dissatisfaction. Setting attainable goals instead involves focusing on specific behaviors to which one can commit. For example, if someone sets a goal of moving with greater ease, they might plan on going to the gym for 30 minutes three times per week. If the goal is fitting into pre-pandemic clothing, they might eliminate a less-than-healthy snack from the daily eating routine.
These are actions that people can control directly, whereas it is unclear how one would achieve the appearance or weight of a particular celebrity or friend. A personal example Clarifying the personal meaning of “ideal body” isn’t just a thought experiment. Understanding one’s values helps in setting goals and then establishing habits in daily life to achieve them. Using myself as an example: As a 48-year-old, my personal body image ideal involves becoming as strong as possible as I age. I don’t want to feel or look delicate, so my workouts primarily involve resistance training – with some running thrown in for stress relief. These are attainable because I value the benefits of these activities. To be sure that I will maintain my exercise routines, I schedule them in advance so that I know exactly how I will fit them into my day rather
Changing the context Even after figuring out personal body image values and setting attainable goals, it can still be hard to let go of older unhealthy habits. Wendy Wood, a University of California psychologist and foremost expert in this arena, has found that many behaviors are activated automatically by being in a context – a location – that has past associations with that behavior. Further, those associations matter more than a person’s current goals. Say that attaining one’s body image and fitness goals involves taking a brisk walk every morning. Turning that into a habit means avoiding past behaviors – don’t set the coffee maker to make the morning java, turn on the television or check the phone before the walk – as well as adopting new behaviors, such as setting out the right clothes the night before and establishing a route in advance. How to get started? A fruitful first step might be to ask: In what ways has the pandemic crisis changed my life values, priorities and attitudes? The answers may be a good foundation for successfully making a healthy shift in body ideals. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license.
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Insight News • December 6, 2021 - December 12, 2021 • Page 7
IN MEMORIAM:
Pioneering Black golf champ Lee Elder dies at 87 By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia Lee Elder, a golfing pioneer, and the first Black player to compete in the Masters has died at 87. “It’s remarkable to look back on Lee’s life and career and realize the hardships he endured and the sacrifices he made to reach golf’s highest level,” said PGA TOUR Commissioner Jay Monahan. “To have the success he had while paving the way for others to dream big and achieve is a testament to the type of man he was and how much talent he possessed. The TOUR is profoundly grateful for the career of Lee Elder, and we extend our sincere sympathies to his family.” Born in 1934 in Dallas, Texas, Elder took up golf to help his parents financially. He caddied at the all-white Tennison Park Golf Club in Dallas, but soon the golf pro began allowing Elder to play the course. In 1959, Elder joined the United Golfers Association In 1959, Elder joined the United Golfers Association and dominated the all-Black group. According to BlackPast.org, Elder won four Negro National Open Championships and an eyeopening 18 of the 22 tournaments in which he participated. Using the purses from those victories allowed Elder to participate in the 1967 qualifying school for the PGA TOUR. In 1971, Elder made history as the first Black player invited to participate in the South African PGA Tournament. “His participation in that event made this the first integrated sports event in South Africa since the establishment of the official Apartheid
Lee Elder policy in 1948,” researchers at the Black Past wrote. However, they noted further that Elder and other Black golfers continued to face racial challenges at home. “Although the PGA Tour was officially open to African Americans, it was not friendly to them. Many tournaments would not allow Black golfers into the clubhouse and instead required that they change and eat in the parking lot,” the researchers wrote. However, in 1975, Elder made history again in
Augusta, Georgia, when he was invited to compete at the Masters Open, the most prestigious tournament in golf. With his victory at the 1974 Monsanto Open, Elder automatically qualified for the Masters Open, but he also became the first Black player invited. Unfortunately, Elder missed the qualifying round in the tournament. Still, his entrance was an African American milestone covered by almost every major magazine and news program in the country,
noted
the Black Press. Elder played in five more Masters, won three PGA tournaments, and was named to the 1979 Ryder Cup Team. He had a combined 12 tournament victories on the PGA and Senior Tours, earning more than $1 million on each tour. However, his invitation to the Masters in 1975 proved that African Americans could compete at the highest levels of golf, the researchers continued. “Lee Elder was a pioneer, and in so many ways,”
legendary golf champ Jack Nicklaus told Bill Fields during a PGATOUR.com interview. “Yes, he was the first Black player to compete in the Masters Tournament, but that simply underlined the hard work Lee put in to further the cause of everyone who has a dream to play on the PGA TOUR and perhaps thinks there were too many barriers before them. It was wonderful that the Masters Tournament and Augusta National paid a well-deserved tribute to Lee by inviting him to be an Honorary
Starter on this last Masters. That morning, you could see the joy in Lee’s face, and Gary Player and I were honored to enjoy that moment with him. That memory will remain special for so many, including me, for many years to come. “Lee was a good player, but most importantly, a good man who countless people very well respected,” added Nicklaus. “The game of golf lost a hero in Lee Elder. Barbara and I send our heartfelt condolences to Lee’s wife Sharon and their entire family.”
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When you put as much food on as many holiday tables as we do, you learn a thing or two about giving thanks. So we’d like to take this opportunity to say thank you – for shopping here, for working here, for growing and making great products and selling them here. Thank you. Thank you for your time and dedication to quality and service. Thank you for your passion, knowledge and expertise. Thank you for your friendship and loyalty. Thank you for every email and call, for every like and share. For each and every way you’ve been a part of Kowalski’s this year, we thank you most sincerely. It is an honor to be your grocers at this time of year and all year long. May your holiday season be full of happiness, kindness and, most of all, the joy of good food.
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Page 8 •December December 6, 2021 - December 12, 2021 • Insight News
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This holiday season, give the gift that pays to return. Holiday scratch games!
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