Insight News ::: 2.23.09

Jazz At Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis PAGE

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February 23 - March 1, 2009 • MN Metro Vol. 34 No. 8 • The Journ nal For Community News, Business & The Arts • www.insightnews.com

Encore! Taylor Hill breaks the state scoring record

By Ryan T. Scott ryan@insightnews.com Minneapolis South High School senior Taylor Hill is someone to keep eyes on. She has long been considered a prodigy in the world of basketball, but now we get see the young lady develop into a woman who will serve as a wonderful ambassador to the youth of Minnesota’s future.

Last week, Hill broke the state scoring record previously held by Minnesota Gopher player Katie Ohm. The current talley of her assault on the record books is 3,701 points. Hill averages 31.7 points per game, and still has a couple of games left to play before the season concludes.

In the midst of such a historic achievement Hill provides a sign of greatness in stating, “It’s time to move on and get ready for section and state tournaments.” B

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Hayor Bibimma Dance Company gaining momentum

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Scholar/athlete Taylor Hill was featured on KFAI’s Conversations with Al McFarlane recently.

(L-R) Al McFarlane, Taylor Hill, broadcast co-host Wain McFarlane, and Paul Hill

Suluki Fardan

Frias to lead St. Paul Human Rights program Luz Maria Frias has been named the director of Saint Paul’s newly merged Human Rights and Equal Economic Opportunity (HREEO) department.

Following a nationwide search, Frias’ appointment came after an extensive process that included applicant interviews and evaluations by the community and a 13-member selection committee.

“Thanks to the commitment and hard work of a wide variety of individuals and organizations over the past year, we now have the right plan in place and the right person to move this department forward,” Saint Paul Mayor Chris Coleman said. “I have full confidence in Luz Maria Frias’ leadership.

Her capability, dedication, and integrity will enable us to further our mission and achieve our goals of increasing economic opportunity for all.”

“The formation of the HREEO

Luz Maria Frias

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Brian Korthals

McFarlane: Making waves in entertainment biz

From Minnesota to world stage LOS ANGELES — When Micah McFarlane’s career brought him to Minnesota for a few days, he took the opportunity to reconnect with some former classmates from Worthington.

Those longtime friends not only got a chance to reminisce with McFarlane, but also to meet his current client, country music star Dwight Yoakam, when Yoakam performed recently at Jackpot Junction Casino in Morton, MN. McFarlane

United celebrates 35 years of inspirational musical ministry

currently serves as tour manager for Yoakam.

A few days later, during a telephone interview from his headquarters in Los Angeles, McFarlane reminisced about his days growing up in Worthington and a career path that has him rubbing elbows with celebrities such as Yoakam, Bob Newhart, Cyndi Lauper and Deborah Harry.

McFarlane moved with his parents and 11 siblings to Worthington in the 1960s. He was just five-years-old, and his

MCFARLANE TURN TO 4

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Tom Olmscheid, Chief Photographer, MN House of Rep.

Economic/Community Outreach

Micah McFarlane, Dwight Yoakam, and Blas Gonzales

By Beth Rickers Worthington Daily Globe

Gospel Choirs

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department presents us with distinct opportunities to achieve economic inclusion in a more integrated fashion and on a larger scale,” said Luz Maria Frias.

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Construction workers, from left, Ryan Primous, Lindell Jack, and Junior Jackson

MnDot challenged Over 400 people rallied last Tuesday night at the American Indian Center on Franklin Avenue in Minneapolis for the third in a series of H.I.R.E. MN Town Hall Meetings and vowed to make their voices count as Minnesota and the nation struggle with job retention, job creation and saving the nation's economy.

On Wednesday afternoon, nearly 100 people showed up at the State Office Building for a hearing of a Minnesota House of Representatives legislative oversight committee on transportation. Speaker after speaker challenged MnDOT and the Legislature to ensure that the MnDOT hiring goals of minorities and women are enforced.

State Representative Bobby Joe Champion, vice chair of the sub-committee, thanked citizens for attending the meeting and said

"I am looking forward to continuing our work to foster inclusion as a means to improve our quality of life. Please remain engaged and I encourage all of you to attend the State Legislature Town Hall Meeting on February 24, 2009 at the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Headquarters, 2117 West River Road, from 6:00-8:00.

The meeting will allow you to hear about the Governor's proposed cuts and for you to provide testimony about what we, as legislators, should protect or cut to balance the State's budget."

Louis King called the effort a success. He described mobilizing workers and citizens and organizations as a "campaign with the right message, the right organization, and with bold and effective mobilization. This is a marathon and not a sprint," he said. "Let's give them more of

No opening night jitters for newest star in Carter family

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Suluki Fardan

Bobby Champion (DFL) 58B (L) and Louis King

what they came here for: sustained, effective and withering pressure."

H.I.R.E. stands for Healthcare, Infrastructure and Renewable Energy and the acronym has become the mantra and battle cry for an expansive group of progressive organizations and institutions committed to ensuring funding from the federal economic HIRE TURN TO 2

100 Strong Who Care: Building bridges for the next generation

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Venezuela gives go-ahead to Chavez With nearly 70% voter turnout, Venezuelans approved a constitutional amendment to end term limits for all elected officials by a much wider margin than predicted. Results of the referendum released by the National Electoral Council (CNE) revealed that 54.36% voted in favor of the amendment, while 45.63% were opposed. Visit www.cne.gob.ve for results in Spanish.

CNE Director Tibisay Lucena congratulated the Venezuelan

people for having carried out the voting in a civic and democratic atmosphere. She called on opposition groups to calmly accept the results "of this marvelous day in which they, too, were protagonists."

Similarly, in a speech at the presidential palace, President Hugo Chavez called the peaceful electoral process -- one of about a dozen in the last decade -- a victory for all Venezuelans. He also said he expected to be a candidate in presidential elections

in 2012, "unless the people decide otherwise."

The referendum demonstrates that most Venezuelans remain satisfied with their country's system of "participatory democracy," which is based on the "transfer of power to the people."

According to UN statistics, government policies have dramatically reduced poverty over the last 10 years, giving Venezuela the lowest rate of socioeconomic inequality in the region.

NBA mid-season report

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U.S. House and Senate “honor and praise” NAACP for 100th anniversary Both the U.S. House and the U.S. Senate saluted the NAACP with “honor and praise” by unanimously passing a resolution to officially recognize the organization on its 100th anniversary, which was February 12. Recognition came with the unanimous passage of legislation (H. Con. Res. 35) by both the House and the Senate. H. Con. Res. 35 was introduced by US Rep. Al Green (TX), and passed the House by a unanimous vote of 424-0. It later passed the Senate by a unanimous vote as well.

Green, who has introduced similar resolutions every year, has been a champion of several NAACP legislative efforts.

During debate on the resolution, Green said, “in the inner sanctum of my soul, I believe that although the arc of the moral universe is long, as Dr. King put it, it bends toward justice. However, I must confess that in the cognitive confines of my cranium, I know that it does so because of organizations like the NAACP.” Republican Congressman

Lamar Smith, also of Texas, said during the debate, “For a century now, the NAACP has fought to bring justice and racial equality to all of America.”

US Rep. Sam Farr ((D-CA) said, “…the founders of the NAACP offer an important lesson on how such a diverse group can accomplish so much. The men and women—black and white, from different backgrounds and from different careers and from different religions—these people came together to create a force for good.”

US Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA) said, “The NAACP is an organization that has made a difference from the very beginning.”

In the Senate, an identical resolution, S. Con. Res. 3 was introduced by Sen. Christopher Dodd (CT) also a long-time champion for the NAACP. Dodd and Sen. Roland Burris (IL) (who is a life-time member of the NAACP) both spoke about the NAACP and the positive impact it has had on America. The White House also acknowledged the

organization’s 100th anniversary.

Vice President of Advocacy and Director of the NAACP Washington Bureau, Hilary Shelton, commended the Congress for its recognition, and stated that he and the NAACP “look forward to continued work with Congress and the White House in making democracy real for all Americans.”

In both cases, the resolutions detail the founding of the NAACP, much of the work that has been accomplished by the Association over the last 100 years through

non-violent means, as well several of its more recent legislative work.

The resolutions ended by recognizing “the 100th anniversary of the historic founding of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People” and honoring and praising “the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People on the occasion of its anniversary for its work to ensure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of all persons.”

Putting Ebony in its proper place Business Exchange

By William Reed Black Press A Black American icon, the Chicago-based Johnson Publishing Company (JPC) is struggling to survive in the modern media landscape.

Editorial reorganizations are occurring at Ebony and JET magazines. The question is: Will the changes have any impact among African Americans and their modern-day mindsets?

Sacred cow as it is among aging African Americans, JPC’s flagship magazine, Ebony has circulation numbers that are anemic and advertising revenue has fallen. The Company’s Chair

and CEO says that she is “deeply committed to maintaining our presence and long-standing legacy in the African American community”. Linda Johnson Rice says the changes are to ensure the 67-year-old company’s “longterm success” in the tumultuous publishing industry.

The company Rice’s dad started in 1945 is the world’s largest African American-owned and-operated publishing company. When Rice took over as Chair and CEO in 2003, the company had businesses in cosmetics, radio broadcast, television production and fashion targeted to an African American consumer audience. JPC’s Ebony and Jet are household names across Black America and among the company’s premier brands, along with the Fashion Fair Cosmetics line.

When 27-year-old businessman John H. Johnson launched Ebony Magazine Black GIs who had helped “make the world safe for democracy” were

returning to civilian life and ready to challenge racial discrimination at home. Johnson founded Ebony “to project another dimension of the Black personality to the world.

We wanted to give Blacks a new sense of somebodiness and sense of self-respect. We wanted to tell them who they were and what they could do.” That strategy took Ebony to the top among African American audiences for 60 consecutive years and made the Johnsons Black America’s richest family.

Over the years, Ebony always addressed African American issues, personalities, and interests in positive and self-affirming ways. Ebony cover pages graced coffee tables of Black households from coast-to-coast. A classic is the August 2008 Ebony special eight-cover edition that featured the “25 Coolest Brothers of All Time”. That line up included Jay-Z, Obama, Prince, Samuel L. Jackson, Denzel Washington, Marvin Gaye, Muhammad Ali and Billy Dee Williams.

HIRE From 1 stimulus initiatives reach communities that too often were ignored and abandoned by "business as usual" practices and policies.

Louis King, President of Summit Academy Opportunities Industrialization Centers, and his co-chair for H.I.R.E MN, environmentalist Will Steger, President of the Will Steger Foundation, were joined by Jennifer Jimenez, of the Alliance for Metropolitan Stability, Bill Means of Minnesota OIC State Council, Karen Monahan, Environmental Justice Advocates of Minnesota, Valerie Martinez, Indigenous People’s Green Jobs

Suluki Fardan

Task Force, Clyde Bellecourt, of American Indian OIC and Al McFarlane, Editor In Chief of

Insight News joined political leaders in calling the community to action around training and

The Ebony Fashion Fair was started in 1956 to support worthy causes among African American organizations. Over 4,000 Fashion Fair events have been sponsored by nearly 200 non-profit civic groups, sororities and fraternities.

The JPC has been at the forefront highlighting Black achievements.

Ebony hosted an “Ebony Presents Hollywood in Harlem.” Oscar party and started the Pathfinder Awards to honor John H. Johnson, with the awards being presented during halftime at the Super Bowl.

Contemporary 30-something Black Americans may not grasp the symbolism of Ebony. John H. Johnson (1918 – 2005) was a teenager when his family moved from Arkansas City to Chicago in 1933. After working for Supreme Liberty Life Insurance Co., the 24-year-old Johnson began to publish Negro Digest as a weekly publication using a format similar to that of Reader’s Digest. It became Ebony in 1945. By the 1950s the large-format glossy

magazine’s circulation had climbed to 500,000. It reached one million in the 1970s. Jet, was introduced in 1951 and Ebony’s Fashion Fair became a traveling show in 1958 and raised $48 million for scholarships and charities. In the 1970s Johnson Publishing moved into the cosmetics business and was ranked as the nation’s secondlargest African American–owned company. In the 1990s JPC had added more cosmetic lines, radio and television production, greeting cards and a book division publishing African American authors to the business and employed 2,600 people.

JPC is “reorganizing” because Ebony’s revenues are down 18.8 percent and JET is down 40.9 percent. Now more than ever, JPC products and publications deserve more support among contemporary African Americans.

JPC deserves to get its mojo back. Ebony is unique in its primary purpose of promoting the welfare of the Black race. In spite

contracts for imminent federal and state spending for infrastructure improvements and renewable energy investment for the new green economy.

Representative Karen Clark, Representative Jeremy Kalin, Councilmember Robert Lilligren, Councilmember Cam Gordon, Commissioner Toni Carter, Commissioner Peter McLaughlin, Commissioner Mike Opat provide legislative analyses of the value of effective community organizing and mobilization and listened to the concerns of their constituents.

Much of the evening's discussion focused on what was described as a consistently lackluster performance by Minnesota Department of Transportation in its effort and ability to support training and hiring of people of color for the millions of dollars of

construction and road maintenance the department handles each year. Some 200 people signed post-cards yesterday requesting that MnDOT be accountable, transparent, and invest in a training system for communities of color.

King thanked partner organizations for attending the Town Hall Meeting. "Our government is making big decisions about how to stimulate our economy. This is happening at a time when climate change is considered by many scientists to be the most serious threat facing the world and while millions of people are unemployed," he said.

"We believe that making public investments in healthcare, infrastructure, and renewable energy can jump-start our economy, create living-wage jobs

www.msnbc.msn.com

John H. Johnson

of post-racial attitudes among African Americans under 40, Ebony is still relevant. It’s a good read toward knowing what is going on in America concerning Blacks and their welfare. Instead of seeking identities in mainstream media Blacks should be renewing subscriptions and displaying Ebony, JET and local Black newspaper publications like days of old.

(William Reed – www.BlackPressInternational.com)

with affordable benefits for our communities, ease the climate crisis, and promote healthy communities," he said.

The rally ask participants to "demonstrate our power through calling elected officials to tell them to support House File 680, a bill outlining the use of federal weatherization funds in Minnesota. This bill would create jobs in weatherizing homes, making them more efficient so energy costs can be reduced. He encouraged participants to tell elected officials that the legislation will create much needed jobs in communities experiencing disproportionately high rates of unemployment, including rural, tribal, lowincome, and communities of color.

Louis King testified that • Mn/DOT has inadequate minority recruiting and training programs; • • •

Contractors do not follow rules on hiring goals; Mn/DOT does not adequately enforce hiring goals; The Legislature, until now, has not held the agency accountable.

King said the Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) is charged with recruiting employees and contractors from all of Minnesota's diverse populations.

• He said there is a lack of accountability at MnDOT that leaves many unanswered employment questions: 1. How many projects qualified for these goals?

2. What were the budget amounts of these projects?

3. What was the performance of each project against the goals?

4. Did Mn/DOT have an overall minority hiring goal for the period of 2007-2008?

5. Did Mn/DOT accomplish this goal for each year and what was the actual performance?

The office of Civil Rights conducted 14 in-depth EEO compliance reviews, on contractors working on Mn/DOT projects, each year in 2007 and 2008, he said.

King offered the following recommendations: • Increased Accountability: Amend the law to require quantitative results reporting to the legislature; • Increased Transparency: Require the agency to establish a website that reports the quantitative information and contractor performance to the public on a monthly basis; • Invest $4 million in developing a robust recruitment and training pipeline that follows principles accepted by practicing professionals; • Require mandatory training of prime contractors on hiring regulations and DBE participation and consequences for noncompliance; • Invest more dollars in compliance officers to increase performance; • Establish a community oversight committee that is independent of Mn/DOT; • Require Mn/DOT to establish 25% minority/female participation on stimulus project goal areas (1800 jobs).

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Courtesy of Hayor Bibimma African Drum and Dance

Hayor Bibimma Dance Company gaining momentum quickly throughout the region. On January 29th, Hayor Bibimma performed at Highland Park High School in a benefit concert to raise funds to purchase African drums for Highland Park Elementary.

Hayor Bibimma continues to deliver a powerful message of unity as they travel to colleges and venues outside the Twin Cities.

On February 15, Hayor Bibimma traveled to South Dakota State University to perform at the

African Students’ Association Africa Nite event, and on February 20th they opened for Ladysmith Black Mambazo at Orchestra Hall in Minneapolis.

Originally from Ghana, Artistic Director Francis Kofi is a world-renowned drummer, dancer, and choreographer who has been teaching dance around the world for many years. He is the founder of the original Hayor Dance Company in Accra, Ghana,

which toured internationally. Now Kofi is based in the Twin Cities, still determined to educate audiences not only about the traditional dances and their meanings, but the welcoming spirit of his culture to share the dances. Judging from the reaction of the audience at Highland Park High School, his message was well-received after Kofi invited the audience to participate in the last dance. He said in Africa the

Traditional West African Dance Company Hayor Bibimma finds success with their spirited highenergy performances intended to educate as well as entertain audiences. Hayor Bibimma Artistic Director Francis Kofi created the company to demonstrate how cultural differences should unite and not divide. His company is a living example of this often lost message. The company members

themselves come from diverse backgrounds, but share the common thread of music and dance.

“Dance is for the entire community to participate in,” says Kofi, “regardless of your background or beliefs, we all live together and should dance together—Dance sees no boundaries.”

The spirit of Hayor Bibimma is contagious and is spreading

McFarlane

couldn’t get fired — they were my brothers. … I was just the guy who was on the phone, trying to make things happen, organizing and promoting, putting posters up.”

Throwing himself headfirst into the effort, McFarolane organized his first music festival, the Midwest Reggae Fest, hiring a national act as the headliner and “Introducing Ipso Facto.” The tactic worked, and soon Ipso Facto was touring college campuses and opening for national acts.

“Because of working at Duffy’s, I had befriended the guys in UB40, and they came over to the Ipso house in Minneapolis where all of us lived and rehearsed in the basement,” McFarlane said. “They came over to hang out and got snowed in; their trucks of equipment couldn’t make it, so we loaned them our equipment. Out of the friendship, the repay was the next year we got to tour with UB40.

We did five shows with them in the Southeast and put out our first record.”

Eventually, the McFarlanes “decided we wanted to be brothers again instead of business partners,” and went their separate ways. They perform as Ipso Facto occasionally, such as for the 2004 Windsurfing Regatta and Unvarnished Music Festival in Worthington.

Wain is still active in the music business, although health problems in recent years have sidetracked those endeavors. Due to complications from hypertension, he has undergone a kidney transplant and is currently recovering from his second liver transplant, the first one rejecting.

During those years with Ipso Facto, McFarlane also took on gigs as a stage manager and/or production manager for events such as Riverfest, the St. Paul Winter Carnival, the Minnesota Black Music Awards, Taste of Minnesota and Taste of Colorado.

“It gave me a whole other group of connections, and I

learned how to network more and more. … It was on-the-job training,” he said.

In the 1990s, he began working as a producer, promoter and event coordinator for Prince at Paisley Park. He also helped develop a new project called the New Power Generation Dance Company that featured Prince’s then-wife, Mayte. Unfortunately, the endeavor was not a great success.

“We built this million-dollar dance company and then did five shows. We had to put the rumor out that Prince was going to show up to sell tickets,” McFarlane recalled.

McFarlane’s résumé from the last 10 years details working as a tour manager for bands and performers including Sonia Dada, Lifehouse, Michelle Branch, Joe Firstman, Revis, Cyndi Lauper, Bob Newhart and Blondie. There is also a long list of festivals and special events in which he’s been involved in different capacities.

Now, McFarlane is ready to move into a new phase of his career, joining Monarch Entertainment Group, a marketing company operated by Joseph Bon Jovi.

“We’re partnering up,” he explained.

“He does entertainment marketing, I do artist management. I’m moving away from the touring as we speak. The reason I took on Bob (Newhart) and Dwight (Yoakam) is they don’t tour (on a big scale); they only work on weekends and special event stuff. This next phase is into artist management, which is actually going back to my roots, what I started doing with Ipso Facto.”

Newhart is McFarlane’s “ultimate favorite” client. “He’s just in a whole other category,” he tried to explain. “Bob is cool to the point of where I’m pinching myself because of the people I get to be around — Don Rickles, John Landis — having dinner with these guys. The whole time, I’m not really saying anything, I’m just listening … kind of in awe.”

McFarlane also praises Lifehouse, which he guided through a first tour experience; Cyndi Lauper, who he said “beats to her own drum” and “wears her emotions on her sleeve”; and Deborah Harry — “if they needed a definition of the world ‘cool’ in the dictionary, they should put her name behind it.”

It’s the people connections that McFarlane enjoys the most about his career, as well as the constant variety. His ability to communicate and attention to detail are traits that have helped him to succeed in a competitive business.

While working in the entertainment industry has its perks, spending a decade touring almost non-stop takes a toll on family life. McFarlane is divorced, although still close with his ex-wife, Elizabeth. He doesn’t have any kids himself, but is close to his many nieces and nephews, and, of course, to his siblings.

“We’re talking about doing another Ipso Facto record,” he shared. “We want to see if we can make a strictly reggae-styled album. It’s something we want to do, and we’re trying to get everybody on board.”

And at some point when his hectic schedule allows, McFarlane hopes to pay another visit to Worthington, the place he still considers home.

“When people ask me where I’m from, I don’t say Minneapolis. I say Worthington,” he said. “It was the greatest place on earth to grow up.”

from the University of Iowa. In addition to working in the Minnesota House of Representatives, Frias’ previous experience includes that as chief legal officer of Centro Legal, family court magistrate in the Second and Fourth Judicial Districts, and hearing examiner for the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community.

“Throughout the selection process, the desire among community members to find a talented candidate truly committed to their needs has remained consistent,” said Councilmember Melvin Carter.

“Luz brings a long history of

dedication to equity and access, as well as the skills necessary to lead this vital department into the future. This has been a long public process—from the Hall audit until now. I am confident that we found the right person for the job.”

Frias brings more than 10 years of experience in management, program development, fundraising, and leadership training. A noted civil rights advocate for over 20 years, Frias has extensive experience as a mediator and frequent lecturer on social justice issues; diversity issues within the courts and mediation process; cross-cultural negotiation issues; immigration

public policy reform; and the use of interpreters within the legal system. Most recently, Frias served as Saint Paul’s external affairs director where she secured more than $27 million in supplemental funding to spearhead the City’s major initiatives.

By merging functions across the City, the new HREEO department brings civil rights enforcement; contract analysis and procurement; contract monitoring, investigation, and enforcement; and capacity building and workforce development under one roof.

Having one department with a

central mission will increase accountability, improve access, and ensure equal opportunity for all of Saint Paul.

In addition to the Mayor, the Human Rights and Equal Economic Opportunity Commission will provide some performance oversight of the department. The commission, a 21-member board of representatives from a variety of sectors of the community, currently has 10 openings and residents are encouraged to apply.

From 1 family was among the city’s first African American residents. He attended school at Central Elementary, Worthington Junior High and briefly at Worthington High School before his family moved back to Missouri in 1975.

He graduated from high school in Raytown, MO, a suburb of Kansas City. However, he’s stayed connected to the Worthington High School Class of 1977 through friends such as Blas Gonzalez, Mike Brower and Doug Hansen. He returned to Worthington in 2007 for the 30year class reunion.

“For me, it was really a formal time of my training, from age five to 16½,” McFarlane said about his time in Worthington. “It was great, great childhood memories.”

After serving in the U.S. Army Military Police for three years, McFarlane moved to Minneapolis with the notion of joining the Minneapolis Police force. But those plans got derailed by his interest in music, and he started working at some music clubs instead.

“I just have this absolute love and passion for music because of my family,” he explained. “I was one of those kids who sat up in my room and read the back of every record, cross-referenced who played on what. My brother, Wain, was my idol.”

Older brother Wain was a musician who performed with his first band during high school in Worthington. While Micah was working at Duffy’s Nightclub in the Twin Cities, Wain came to him with the idea of starting a band. Ipso Facto, a reggae group based on their Dad’s Jamaican roots, was born in 1983.

“He recruited my brothers, Julian ‘JuJu’ and Greg, and got my sisters involved at that time. I said, ‘OK, I’ll be the manager,’” McFarlane recalled. “So that’s where my training came from. I

Frias From 1 “I am excited for this new opportunity to work with talented staff and community members to achieve our shared vision.”

As the new HREEO director, Frias will be introduced to the community at a meeting on March 3 from 5 - 6 p.m. at Oxford Community Center, 270 Lexington Pkwy North.

Recently recognized by Minnesota Lawyer as a 2008 Attorney of the Year, Frias holds both a master’s and law degree

Daniel Cleland

(L-R) Cyndi Lauper, Micah McFarlane, and Sarah McLachlan

dancers do not perform by themselves, but with the audience, because the audience members are co-creators. The company has already been busy this year appearing at numerous local institutions for residencies, workshops, and performances.

For more information about Hayor Bibimma visit www.hayorbibimmadance.org

Kevin Cofield

Micah McFarlane (L), and Blondie’s Debbie Harry

INSIGHT NEWS www.insightnews.com Insight News is published weekly, every Monday by McFarlane Media Interests.

Editor-In-Chief Al McFarlane CFO Adrianne Hamilton-Butler Publisher Batala-Ra McFarlane Associate Editor & Associate Publisher B.P. Ford Director of Content & Production Patricia Weaver Sr. Content & Production Coordinator Elliot Stewart-Franzen Web Design & Content Associate Ben Williams Distribution/Facilities Manager Jamal Mohamed Receptionist Lue B. Lampley Contributing Writers Paul Edward Hamilton Ryan T. Scott Julie Desmond Rashida McKenzie Marcia Humphrey Photography Suluki Fardan Tobechi Tobechukwu Contact Us: Insight News, Inc. Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Ave. N. Mpls., MN 55411 Ph.: (612)588-1313 Fax: (612)588-2031 Member: Minnesota Multicultural Media Consortium (MMMC) Midwest Black Publishers Coalition, Inc. (MBPCI) National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) Postmaster: Send address changes to McFarlane Media Interests, Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Avenue North Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55411.

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Insight News • February 23 - March 1, 2009 • Page 5

COMMENTARY

We all benefit from giving others a second chance Commentary

By State Rep. Bobby Champion, 58B The word repentance is defined as having both a change of mind and a change in direction. For many ex-offenders leaving the correctional system without the prospect of support, shelter, or a good job, the change of mind is much easier to achieve than the change of direction.

I believe policies in the area of public safety must also include

forgiveness. While it’s important for people to face the consequences of their criminal activity, we must also strike a balance that allows individuals who have paid their debt to society to have a fair chance to rejoin society.

Newly released inmates are often driven right back to prison by their difficulty in obtaining jobs, education and housing, as well as by the social stigma that accompanies a prison record. In addition, many of these people suffer from mental illnesses but have no access to treatment. If past patterns hold true, more than half of the prisoners released this year will be back behind bars within a few years. Nationwide, nearly 2 million children have a parent in prison and those children are 6 – 10 times more likely to end

up in prisons themselves.

With the prison population exploding and the price of incarceration rising faster than our state coffers (current costs are more than $30,000 per year per inmate) we must focus on ways to reduce recidivism.

Last week, I joined Sen. Mee Moua, the Council on Crime and Justice and other community organizations, ex-offenders and their families to discuss the importance of second chances and offender reentry issues as part of “Second Chance Day on the Hill.”

I’ve also introduced legislation with Sen. Moua and others that would help ease the transition back into society for ex-offenders who have paid their debts to society, giving them a fair shot at a second chance.

There is a growing realization

that a criminal justice system that simply punishes cannot be effective. Sanctions against exoffenders in Minnesota restrict people from pursuing certain careers and obtaining professional licenses, limit housing options and access to education. Those who were arrested but who may have never been convicted of a crime are also harmed by collateral sanctions that deny them employment or housing based solely on an arrest or court appearance.

Additionally, unofficial sanctions from landlords and prospective employers are often more severe and longer-lasting than the actual criminal punishment.

At a rally at the State Capitol on Second Chance Day, we heard stories of personal redemption from people who have

successfully turned their lives around. One woman, released from prison after a conviction for fifth-degree drug possession, found the initial challenges she faced nearly insurmountable.

Finding long-term housing was difficult. Her desire to go back to school was hindered because she wasn’t eligible for federal student loans. While she overcame those obstacles and now owns and operates a halfway house for exoffenders, she summed it up when she said: “Although we are good people who made poor choices, we deserve a second chance.”

So this issue really is about redemption – and about moving forward. It’s about helping people who have paid for poor choices pursue the things that most of us take for granted - like renting an apartment, driving to work,

obtaining a job and going to school.

We know reformed offenders are far less likely to commit new crimes if they have better housing, educational and work options.

And we all benefit when good people are able to find and keep work. Removing some of the barriers that keep people from moving forward will go far toward helping more people move beyond their past to become contributing members of society.

Questions? Please feel free to contact me any time by email at rep.bobby.champion@house.mn, by phone at (651) 296- 8659, or by mail at 329 State Office Building, St. Paul, Minnesota, 55155. I look forward to hearing from you.

Connecting the bridge to nowhere to the new reality

By Hector Garcia MediaForum.org Taxpayers around the globe have paid over $13 trillion (more than a quarter of the gross global product) to bail out financial, insurance and other organizations as well as investors. Was this global crisis — which with each passing hour is casting millions of Americans out of their jobs, out of their homes, and into a deep well of debt — truly inevitable?

In 1993, the gross global product represented about $20 trillion and derivatives traded in the world markets, $12 trillion.

Although derivatives have appropriate functions, such as making hedging possible and lending liquidity to markets, they are instruments whose value is not intrinsic but derived from that of mortgages, securities and other

assets. Yet by 2008, while the gross global product had grown to $56 trillion, derivatives had reached approximately $530 trillion! When the derivatives’ underlying value was eroded by reckless mortgage loans, the huge excess in speculation and the artificiality in the financial edifice were revealed.

As far back as the early 90s, books such as When Corporations Rule the World; hearings by the House Banking Committee on the derivatives market; leaders in academia such the former president of Harvard University, Derek Bok; and reporters, such as Thomas Friedman, laid out different consequences of the practices and policies unfolding in global markets.

Economists of the stature of Joseph Stiglitz and a handful of prudent, long-time investors including Warren Buffet called attention to the growing dangers. The outcome was foreseen by those who were willing

to see.

If there’s any hope of full recovery, we must look at the mythical mindset, symbolized by the infamous Bridge to Nowhere, which blinded us to that outcome as a means of connecting us to a brighter future.

Many believed that “the end of history” had been reached, that capitalism — not on the basis of enlightened self-interest but unregulated and unrestrained selfinterest — was infallible, and that the U.S. had become the only “indispensable nation,” free to disregard others. Meanwhile, over 40 million Americans did not have a bank account, approximately 45 million did not have health insurance, and 30 million adults were considered illiterate.

The need for interconnectedness with our own poor and with other nations means that Americans’ image of ourselves, and

our aspirations — the essence of what defines “the American Dream” — must undergo radical change.

When Americans disconnected the identity of the nation from the reality of its own marginalized community and from the international reality, during a period of rapidly evolving globalization, our mindset became dysfunctional.

We manifested our own loss of faith in the principle of broadly-shared prosperity.

Now, it’s time to stop being awe-struck by the cleverness of those who have been intent on succeeding at the expense of everyone else.

Intelligence, knowledge and power alone do not necessarily translate into ethical, moral, or enduringly productive behavior; without wisdom and balance, they have repeatedly produced elitist excess … and they did so once again in bringing about the current crisis.

We the people need to ask what changes and sacrifices are required in order to move in a worthwhile direction. The future of our country demands that all of us build a bridge back to reality. A good start is recognizing that the necessary flows of capital, products and services of globalization are not sustainable in a ruthless system of commerce that relies on low- or no-pay for work, and the assumption that our natural and human resources are expendable. The notion of unending, increasing affluence, and of lax or nonexistent accountability, must be abandoned.

It is not too late and our history holds the answers: a return to honoring the truths that are “selfevident,” “a decent respect for the opinions of mankind,” and the full, educated, responsible engagement of the people. This is the essence of modern democracy and the source of the longstanding success of our

country.

The timing is favorable.

President Obama has been a bridge between those in power and the rest of the country on a platform built on hope and inclusiveness. The economic crisis has placed us outside our comfort zone, which makes a revolution of thought possible. We can all help replace the paradigm built on the fantasies of self-proclaimed masters of the universe with one based on the profound realities that the founders of the nation modestly disclosed.

This paradigm shift will reveal the new 21st century frontier. It is a challenge to be grasped now. As candidate Obama observed, this is our and the peoples of the world’s moment.

Hector Garcia is a consultant on international trade and investment and on intercultural communications.

Letter to the editor:

Are foreclosures helping North Minneapolis?

MinnPost recently published an article titled "Are foreclosures helping North Minneapolis?" in which CM Samuels and I were quoted. Clearly, this has not sat well with at least some people. I must say I object to the MinnPost article's title, but I feel quite strongly that its content - telling the story of a Hawthorne resident and the vision of the Ackerberg Group, not to mention a wonderfully informative historical sidebar - was, in my mind, impeccable.

Rev. Staten is of course free to express his opinions and you are free to give a forum for such opinions.

I appreciate what Insight News has done in this manner for North Minneapolis and the African American community (which I consider myself a part of as I live, work,

worship, and do much of my shopping in North Minneapolis).

But this recent Insight issue tells only one side of a multi-faceted story.

I have spent the past nine years of my life working against many of the failed housing policies that led us to this point both as a community organizer and as a mortgage originator.

When the Glass-Steagall Act was replaced by the Gramm-LeachBiley Act, and when the CRA was weakened, I marched in protest.

As a mortgage originator, I spoke to elected officials about the need for MORE, not less, regulations in my industry, thus risking the ire of many colleagues and perhaps diminishing the number of business partnerships I could make. I have spoken against the racial disparities inherent in our

mortgage lending system, and helped pass Minnesota's landmark 2007 legislation against predatory lending. When NRRC was abandoned by the Home Ownership Center and others, I publicly spoke out that our leaders did an immeasurable disservice to North Minneapolis - this to the chagrin of my own Hawthorne board members who thought I was sticking my neck out too far. So please, tell me what "failed housing policies" have I supported?

While I stand by my record, I am open to hearing from people constructive ways in which I may do a better job. My unique blend of mortgage originating and community organizing experience has given me the opportunity to be a leading voice on many housing issues, and I want to use that

opportunity wisely and for the benefit of my community.

However, I take great umbrage at the notion that I am blaming the victim. And although Rev. Staten puts "blessing" in quotation marks, I have never used that word to describe any aspect of this crisis. God knows, I wish we weren't dealing with a foreclosure crisis at all, much less one that is decimating my community to such a degree. But that is the reality of where we stand. Another aspect of that reality is that we have drug dealers, prostitutes, pimps, johns, and nuisance properties in North Minneapolis. In light of THAT reality, who is the victim?

When my neighbor calls 911 repeatedly because a property across the street is a central location for drugs and

prostitution, and his truck is set on fire in retaliation, who is the victim? (The owner of this house is now in foreclosure and it will be vacated by early summer.)

When another neighbor surrounded by two houses with open-air drug dealing has no fewer than ten windows broken because he stands up against such behavior, who is the victim?

When the intersection of 31st Ave N and 6th St N was - WAS, not is - known as a central location for drugs, prostitution, and other illicit behavior, hasn't the community been victimized?

If I could choose, I'd take a North Minneapolis with no housing crisis over our current situation in a heartbeat. But when a foreclosure forces people who are terrorizing my community to go somewhere else, that is a

positive aspect of a crisis that is unquestionably tragic.

This discussion over the various impacts of the foreclosure crisis is one that I believe needs to be ongoing and conducted in a civil and equitable manner. To that end, I am requesting an opportunity to write a counterpoint to the editorial that appears in this edition of Insight. I am not asking for any more space than what was given, only the opportunity to express a different point of view that I hope will contribute to constructive dialogue.

Jeff Skrenes

Page 6 • February 23 - March 1, 2009 • Insight News

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FULL CIRCLE Gospel Choirs United celebrates 35 years of inspirational musical ministry

By Brenda Colston On Sunday, May 17, 2009 at 5:30 PM, Gospel Choirs United will come together to offer praise in song as they celebrate 35 years of music ministry. GCU is billing this event as the “Celebration of all Celebrations.” The venue will be Mighty Fortress International Ministries at 6400 85th Avenue North in Brooklyn Park, MN. The success of GCU dates back to 1974 when the group

was founded by Phyllis Williams, and the late Sam Davis (of the Sam Davis Ensemble).

In 1974 Sam Davis, with Zion Baptist Church’s Inspirational Choir and Phyllis Williams with Sabathani Baptist Church’s Pastor’s Chorus, joined together to form a new choir. The Choir performed in 1974 and again in 1975. The fellowship was indeed inspirational.

In 1976 Carl Walker and the Mount Olivet Celestial Choir joined them to form what was

then called “Gospel Choirs Unlimited”, with the belief that an unlimited number of choirs would eventually be invited to join in. In 1980 Vera Jean Jenkins with North Central’s Angelic Choir, and Donnell Smith with New Hope’s Adult Choir, united musical minds to make the perfect union of what is now known as Gospel Choirs United (GCU). \ The choir’s first album was recorded at the Lindquist Chapel, produced and directed by Herman Cain and Sam Davis (Cain & Davis: CADA Records). Selections on the second album; “Together with Jesus”, included songs composed by Vera Jean Jenkins and by Thom West.

In 1986 Carl Clomon joined the Gospel Choirs United music team as Mount Olivet Choir’s new music leader and director and soon became Chairman of the GCU Board of Directors.

The rich history of GCU includes performances such as the Guthrie Theater’s highly acclaimed ‘Gospel at Colonus’ (1987), the Plymouth Music Series Witness Choir under the direction of Phillip Burnell, featuring actor James Earl Jones, and the Harlem Nutcracker at the Northrup Auditorium (1996).

The 20th Year Reunion Concert was held at the World (Fitzgerald) Theater. Former local directors and choir members reunited to perform more than 23 selections In 1996, Davis directed the choir for the last time in one of his arrangements of the spiritual, “I’ve Got a New Name”. This concert was special because they had the opportunity to say thanks and present him with a plaque.

The 25th Year Reunion Banquet was held in 1999 at the Shrine Center prior to the annual concert. The Concert was performed the following day at the Minneapolis Auditorium with more than 1,000 people in attendance and 150 choir members participating.

GCU returned to the Lindquist Auditorium in 2000 and again in 2001. During the years 2002 to 2008, the choir returned to the more traditional church setting with concerts at Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, First Covenant church, and Fellowship Baptist Church.

Other choir participants over time included Pilgrim’s Choir under the direction of J. D. Steele, Church of God in Christ Mass Choir under the direction of Robert Eddie Robinson, Redeemer Choir, under the direction of Sam and Belinda Davis, Free At Last Choir, under the direction of Tanabe Gatlin, Greater Friendship under the direction of Gezelle Carr, (later under the direction of Greg Washington), and Wayman AME Choir, under the direction of Betty Webb. GCU has been comprised of as many as 200 angelic voices from more than 6 local Gospel Choirs.

GCU is currently hosted by Macedonia Baptist Church Choir, under the direction of Nerita Hughes (Pastor Charles Graham), and Mount Olivet Baptist Church, under the direction of Carl Clomon (Pastor James Thomas). Singing with 100 voices, this compelling choir is composed of some of the most talented singers in the Midwest.

Featured choir members that help to comprise GCU are recent participants representing such churches as: Fellowship Baptist Church Mass Choir, Bethesda Baptist Church, Christ in You Ministry, Colonial Church of Edina, Community Covenant Church, Fellowship Baptist Church, Free at Last Church of God in Christ, Greater Friendship Baptist Church, New Hope St. Paul, New Hope –New Hope, MN, New Jerusalem Tabernacle, Progressive Baptist Church, Shiloh Baptist Church, Shiloh Temple International Ministries, and Wayman AME Church.

Not only is the choir fantastic but the band is terrific and sometimes, quite honestly, off the charts! With rhythmic grooves and intricate harmonies, the choir and band are an awesome combination.

Excitement!

Energy!

Excellence! These are the emotions you will experience as you enjoy the concert of the year.

The choir has featured many national recording artists in concert such as Daryl Coley, Keith Pringle, Steven Roberts and Jeffery LaValley, just to name a few.

Special guests for this celebration include the anointed stylings of Minister Jeffery

Suluki Fardan

Phyllis Williams

LaValley of Flint Michigan.

Minister LaValley will teach a music workshop as part of this great celebration.

The primary mission of GCU is to spread the gospel to all people. This is evident in the choices of music slated for this concert. It is GCU’s belief that gospel music should be appealing to people from all walks of life. This year, 2009, we celebrate 35 years singing and praising His name, spreading the gospel in song as we continue to “press toward the mark of the high calling in JESUS”.

Minneapolis DFL 2009 Precinct Caucus & Ward Conventions Information for Wards 3, 4, and 5 Precinct Caucuses, Tuesday, March 3, 2009, starting at 7:00 pm Ward 3 all precincts Sheridan Intl School, 1201 University Ave NE Jerry Foss 612-623-3677 jerryfoss@aol.com Georgianna Yantos 612-807-2428 gyantos2004@yahoo.com Ward 4 all precincts Patrick Henry High School, 4320 Newton Ave N Jeff Strand 612-588-4817 Jeff_Strand@msn.com Roberta Englund 612-588-1392 rrenglund@msn.com Ward 5 all precincts North High School, 1500 James Ave N Brian Bushay 612-522-2776 bbushay@nmpls.com Judy Baker 612-529-4917 georges01@aol.com Convention Dates, Locations and Contacts ( Registration 9am, Convenes 10am): Ward 3: Saturday, March 28 East Side Neighborhood Services, 1700 2nd Ave NE Ward 4: Saturday, March 21 Creekview Park Gymnasium, 5001 Irving Ave N Ward 5: Saturday, March 28 North Commons Park Center, 1801 James Ave N

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Insight News • February 23 - March 1, 2009 • Page 7

AESTHETICS No opening night jitters for newest star in Carter family

By Deb Pleasants TC Daily Planet “On opening night, I thought I was going to be nervous, said Amani Ward. “But as soon as the lights came up, I wasn’t nervous anymore.”

At age ten, Ward already displays a level of self-confidence equal to other members of the esteemed Carter family.

Following in the footsteps of grandmother Toni Carter and uncle Melvin Carter III and other family members, this Crossroads Elementary fourth-grader is showing she, too, has acting talent. This week she opened portraying the lead role in Steppingstone Theatre’s latest production Ruby! The Story of Ruby Bridges.

Ward infuses some of her own charming personality as well as the mannerisms of her six-yearold sister Afiya into the character of Ruby. However, she tries not to over-analyze her role.

Knowing she is portraying an important historical figure has left a lasting impression. “Sometimes I feel sad for what she had to go through,” Ward said, “but, at the same time I feel glad because she did that…It would be really cool if she came to see the play.”

Ward’s desire to act comes naturally. She is part of the next generation of artists and performers in the Carter family.

He mother, Anika Ward, is the executive director of ARTS-Us— a nonprofit, community-based program whose stated mission is “to develop young leaders in and through the arts.” The program was co-founded 15 years ago by Ward’s grandmother, Ramsey County Commissioner Toni Carter.

Toni Carter points out that the Carters have been involved in the arts for several generations. Many were actors, storytellers and musicians; some even performed in the circus. “We’re a family of performers,” she said.

Toni Carter is a veteran of the stage herself. In 1971, Carter moved here from Cleveland, OH

Weekly film previews

By Kam Williams kam@insightnews.com BIG BUDGET FILMS Crossing Over (R for sexuality, nudity, graphic violence and pervasive profanity) "Crash"-like ensemble drama chronicles the clash of cultures in L.A. resulting from the flood of immigrants attempting to attain legal status in the U.S. Cast includes Harrison Ford, Ray Liotta, Ashley Judd and Alice Braga.

Jonas Brothers: The 3D Concert Experience (G) Available in 3-D only, this Disney flick features both the performance highlights and backstage antics of siblings Nick, Joe and Kevin as the pop phenoms crisscross the country on their 2008 "Burning Up Tour."

Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li (PG-13 for sensuality and martial arts violence) Screen adaptation of the popular video game franchise stars Kristin Kreuk as the kicking title character of an action adventure which pits the highkicking heroine against the forces of evil in an epic showdown on the mean streets of Bangkok. Supporting cast includes Michael Clarke Duncan, Chris Klein and Neal McDonough.

Jazz at Lincoln Center at Orchestra Hall The Music of Thelonious Monk Fri Mar 6, 2009 8PM Orchestra Hall | $35-$59, $77 VIP The legendary jazz pianist and composer Thelonious Monk wrote mostly for quartets and quintets— but, fortunately for us, his works also exist in great arrangements for larger ensembles. Prepare to be dazzled in this very special concert by the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis: big-band renditions of Monk’s fascinating, idiosyncratic compositions that will make you fall in love with jazz all over again.

to attend Carleton College. While there, she joined the Carleton Thespian Society and the Carleton Black Actors. Upon graduation, she relocated to the Twin Cities where she worked at IBM during the day and performed at Penumbra Theatre at night.

“Penumbra became my second home early on,” she said.

Her love of the arts and belief that they help develop the whole person led her to leave corporate America and become a teacher at Crosswinds School in Woodbury—a school that engages students in academics through the arts. Later, she was elected to the Saint Paul School Board where she advocated for the arts.

Even now as a County Commissioner, Carter sits on the board for ARTS-Us. In its 15-year history she has personally seen many talented people in the program rise up to become leaders. “Many of them are storytellers and great speakers.

One of them, my son, is on the city council,” she said.

Saint Paul Councilmember Melvin Carter III is Toni Carter’s son and Amani Ward’s uncle. He took part in several community theatre programs including SteppingStone and ARTS-Us. That early experience may have helped prepare him for the political stage. He believes being in front of an audience helped build self-confidence. Although he enjoyed acting, he discovered he connected more deeply with the audience through storytelling—an art he learned from watching his mother.

“I felt I could break down that invisible barrier with the audience,” Councilmember Carter said. “It’s not just about acting or storytelling. It’s about learning to communicate effectively.”

Like her uncle, Ward is also involved with ARTS-Us. She attends their afterschool program and is part of their young storytellers program. This summer she hopes to be part of the cast for their original production Kumbayah—The Juneteenth Story, which is a story commemorating the end of

Amani Ward as Ruby Bridges. slavery.

With so much talent to draw from, Ward had several family members offering support and guidance. Someone was always willing to help her practice her lines. She is clearly a dedicated performer; however, while preparing for the show, there were times she preferred to do other kid-centered activities.

“They forced me to practice every single day of my break…I couldn’t play my Wii,” Ward said.

Her family’s intense level of involvement has not dissuaded Ward from pursuing an acting career. Although she can envision herself someday starring in a TV show, she is not ruling out a possible future in politics. She said her long-range goals may include someday becoming president. Whatever she pursues, she knows she has the full support of her family.

“They want me to follow my dreams,” Ward said.

Councilmember Carter sees

Steppingstone Theatre

his niece, and all of the Carter children, as the next generation of leaders. “I charted my own path, yet it’s not dissimilar from my mother’s path. Whatever they do, whether it is acting, politics or being a neurosurgeon, it will be through a lens of wanting to improve the community.”

Ruby! The Story of Ruby Bridges will play from now until March 1.

Tickets are: Children/Seniors-$9; Adults$11.For show times for this play or information about the remaining plays this season, contact Steppingstone at (651) 225-9265 or visit their website at http://www.steppingstonetheatre. org/ Deb Pleasants worked as a probation officer for 15 years prior to becoming a stay-at-homemom. In addition to caring for her son, she is a freelance writer and citizen journalist. She resides in St. Paul with her family.

Page 8 • February 23 - March 1, 2009 • Insight News

James Burroughs

Suluki Fardan

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Students at Cityview Performing Arts Magnet School

Suluki Fardan

100 Strong Who Care: Building bridges for the next generation

By Mehgaan Jones Many bridges of hope and admiration were built at Cityview Performing Arts Magnet School on February 18 and 19.

The Minneapolis School District and Twin Cities Black Employment Network (TC-BEN) have partnered to present the first annual 100 Strong Who Care:

Building Bridges for the Next Generation.

The event was the brainchild of James Burroughs, Director of Diversity and Equal Opportunity for the Minneapolis School District and TC-BEN in an effort to develop a community project that would bring together African American professionals to inspire our future leaders.

“We are calling the volunteers

inspirational models, not role models. We want to show the youth examples of leaders who look like them,” said Burroughs.

Burroughs explained that a leader who he was able to identify with as a child inspired him to become a lawyer. He believes the volunteers will inspire and give hope to the children.

The event generated a buzz larger than expected. “The event

is getting a lot of attention by the media and surrounding community. Right now we have 88 volunteers and our goal is to reach 100,” said Burroughs prior to February 18.

The well anticipated event will included reading sessions and a career day. Grades K-8 also participated in the activities with the younger school children reading Black History stories with

various community leaders and spending time with African American leaders who care about their future.

The older children, grades 5th –8th, participated in an informal career day. They participated in small group activities where they were introduced to careers in marketing, law, science, human resources, computer technology and many other professions.

MPS and TC-BEN hope to create a series of 100 strong which will include events for Asian, Native American, Hispanic and other ethnic groups.

“Our ultimate goal is to get volunteers to continue working with the youth in the future,” said Burroughs.

The event coordinators are more than willing to assist with mentoring opportunities for volunteers.

The City, Inc.’s Southside school honored The City, Inc.’s Southside School, a Minneapolis contract alternative school, was one of 20 schools in the state recently honored for making Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) for two consecutive years after not making AYP for one year or more.

On Thursday, February 12th, Bill English, School Director, Kate Benson, Language Arts teacher, and three City, Inc. high school students were honored at an event which took place at the Continuing Education and Conference Center in St. Paul. It was hosted by the Minnesota Center for Reading Research of the University of Minnesota’s College of Education and Human Development.

According to information provided by the Minnesota House of Representatives House Research

website (www.house.leg.state.mn. us), the Federal “No Child Left Behind Act of 2001” requires schools to make adequate yearly progress toward students becoming proficient in English and math. The goal of Title I of the Act “is to ensure that all children have a fair, equal and significant opportunity to obtain a high-quality education and reach, at a minimum, proficiency on challenging state academic achievement standards and state academic assessments.” The federal law requires schools to make sure all students and specific subgroups of students, including African American students, are making AYP. Benson, Language Arts teacher, attributes the City, Inc.’s AYP success to a four-prong approach

that includes: a) setting high standards; b) staff consistency; c) creating a learning community that provides positive reinforcement for scholastic achievement; and d) tightening up on behavior issues that may impede academic success.

“After 40 years of serving the community, the City, Inc. has made significant strides with helping students, who for a variety of reasons have not succeeded in more traditional academic settings,” said Fred Easter, President/CEO. “It’s wonderful to be able to share such a great honor with the community, as well as to invite students seeking an alternative learning environment to check us out.”

Teresa Mullins

(L-R)Peter Bielawski, Archolia Jackson, students; Bill English, School Director; Kate Benson, Teacher; and Roger Lott, student.

Rites of Passage event to celebrate, recognize African American males At a time when so many negative images of young Black men are featured in the media, a local effort is mentoring and celebrating those who are headed in positive directions. That’s the 11th Annual Rites of Passage, set for 6 p.m.

March 7 at the Marriott Southwest in Minnetonka.

Sponsored by the Minneapolis chapter of Jack and Jill, the combination banquet, ceremony and celebration is designed to recognize young African American males who are seniors in high school as they make their transition into adulthood. Each year, the evening is dominated by an Afro centric theme designed to instill pride. Participants have excelled in academics, citizenship, entrepreneurship, community service and athletics.

Moreover, the Rites of Passage program is designed to promote an understanding of African American value systems relative to developing a positive lifestyle; awareness of the significance and importance of being a responsible man in today’s

society; self-awareness; and positive conscious behavior toward immediate and extended family.

The young men have participated in a series of workshops that focus on building leadership, college preparation, life plan development, journaling and mentor relationships to encourage learning more about themselves and their role as responsible men. The seven principles of Kwanzaa – Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (selfdetermination), Ujima (collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (cooperative economics), Nia (purpose), Kuumba (creativity), and Imani (faith) -are also incorporated into the program as a guide for daily living.

This year, 15 seniors from various high schools will be in the Rites of Passage program.

Participants include Joseph Brooks, Drew Bryant, Sage Cross, Jacob Dodd, James Hoskins, Ayo Idowu, Daanjerae Johnson, Charles Jones, Ethan Lassiter, Aaron Leonard, Bryce McNeal, Marsalis SimpsonFaxio, Emmanuel Speare, Marlon

Watts and Darian Yancy.

Janie Westbrook, mother of previous participant Jarrett Westbrook, knew of the program and reflected on what it meant to both the family and her son when he took part last year.

“Having witnessed firsthand the journey the young men took from beginning to end in the Rites of Passage program, I am extremely impressed and proud of them all for their commitment, their support of each other and their future goals and endeavors,” said Westbrook. “I am also thankful for the Minneapolis Jack and Jill chapter for caring enough to embrace and sponsor a Rites of Passage program. There is no doubt in my mind that this program has made an impact in my son’s life and future.”

The event is a fundraiser and proceeds will go to help a non-profit that the initiates choose. Tickets are $65 and are available by contacting: Rightsofpassage.mpls@gmail.com

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Insight News • February 23 - March 1, 2009 • Page 9

LIFESTYLE How to plan and execute a perfect birthday party Style on a dime

By Marcia Humphrey My five-year-old son, Landon, has been invited to a birthday party on Saturday. That’s the same day that my oldest daughter, Alanna, turns into an official teenager-thrilling 13.

Actually, Alanna is a leap year baby, having been born February 29th, 1996. So her actual birthday only comes every four years. We often get asked on which day we celebrate her birthday when it’s not a leap year. Our solution is simple; we pick the nearest Saturday and celebrate! Often the celebration lasts for a few days, and our children really enjoy that. Whether attending a birthday party or hosting one, the costs can get quite pricey.

So here are a few tips to help you keep those birthday celebrations under control.

Birthday Cards and Invitations I am embarrassed to confess that, despite my lifetime of frugality, there was a short period of time when I actually bought birthday cards for small children. It was during those early years, when, as a firsttime mom, I was still learning the ropes (never again!).

I learned that you save big money when your children make cards for their friends. My daughter, Arianna just made me a beautiful Valentine Day card.

It’s amazing what some construction paper and glitter glue can do!

Never underestimate the creativity of a young one. If you are throwing a party for your child (or yourself,) handmade invitations can be a fun alternative to storebought ones. Finally, evite offers free online invitations for you to send to everyone on your guest list, www.evite.com. In addition, evite provides party planning ideas, and tools to help you stay organized and on budget.

Birthday Cakes Rather than spending big bucks on a custom cake, consider making it yourself. If the party is in honor of your child, let him help with the baking. If you are looking for themed birthday cake ideas, check out books and magazines from the library or visit your local Michael’s Craft Store for ideas, www.michaels.com . There you will find all the supplies to make any type of cake you can imagine. Michaels also has a free craft program just for kids.

The next event, on March 14, happens to be about birthday party ideas. Call the Michael’s nearest you to sign up.

Birthday Presents Since birthdays are sure to

come, it is always a good idea to have a few gifts on hand to give when you are invited to a party. Shopping in advance greatly reduces the stress of trying to get the perfect gift.

Right now, Target among other retailers, still has clearance items available at 75%off.

Also, Instead of picking up an overpriced battery-operated toy, consider buying a floor puzzle (a good brain work-out), activity books or some craft supplies. My children love to showcase their artistic skills on the fridge.

Homemade gifts from craft items are always fun and are sure to be remembered; beaded necklaces, bracelets, or personalized picture frames (with a picture included) are a

few good ideas. These same low-cost homemade gift ideas also make fun party activities.

If skating, bowling, and Chuck E. Cheese parties are not in the birthday budget right now, no worries. There is plenty of fun to be had when you have a birthday party, in the comfort of your own home. Don’t mistake an expensive and elaborate party for a better party. I recently drove past a sign on a business that says it all; “It’s not what you have, it’s what you Enjoy!

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

http://www.wallpapers.net/download/birthday_cake-1024x768.jpgto-

Page 10 • February 23 - March 1, 2009 • Insight News

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COMMUNITY The Fabulous Boot Affair raises money to combat domestic violence

By Ryan T. Scott ryan@insightnews.com There is nothing fabulous about violence against women and children. The quickly developing, community business group ‘Sistas that Rock the Cradle,’ are fabulous, and the event that they recently held is proof of that.

The Fabulous Boot Affair was a great event with an even greater cause. Deb Foster, Director of Development for the Minnesota Coalition for Battered Women (MCBW), showed an overwhelmed sense of pride for the time and effort that the ladies of ‘Sistas that Rock the Cradle’ put into bringing greater attention to violence against women and children.

The event featured a fantastic display of cutting edge men’s and women’s shoes, a free buffet provided by The Favor Café, and all of that in addition to a spirited performance by the well-known smooth jazz star Wenso Ashby.

Donations were accepted at the event, and it can proudly be

reported that nearly $600 was raised, in a very short period of time, to provide financial support to MCBW. During a brief musical intermission Deb Foster gave a convincing assessment of the widespread effects of violence against women and children, as well as the extremely successful services provided by the MCBW. According to the MCBW, in 2008 at least 22 women and 10 children lost their lives as a result of domestic violence and child abuse. One in 5 females, said Foster, experience intimate partner violence, and these women are much more prone to pregnancy, alcohol abuse, suicide, and substance abuse.

In a very poignant exclamation Foster stated, “1,381 female victims of violence sought shelter and services due to domestic violence.” After a brief pause Foster added, “and that was in one day!” Another key mention

by Foster was that more and more teens are being exposed to this violence.

“The key to fixing this

problem is to stop it before it starts,” said Foster. The MCBW provides the public awareness and prevention services to stop this form of violence before it starts.

MCBW also provides legal assistance; training and technical assistance for domestic violence programs throughout the state; State and Federal public policy and legislative advocacy service as a statewide informational clearinghouse for local, and national, news and information via e-mail listserves, newsletters, and e-updates.

The MCBW believes in the strength of diversity, affirms the power of collaborative efforts, encourages the leadership of survivors, and believes that it is the community’s responsibility to confront perpetrators.

These tenets provide understanding for how the ‘Sistas that Rock the Cradle’ and others are drawn, and welcome, to the causes of the MCBW. “These women are a tremendous class act who have taken time out to truly contribute,” said Foster in thanking the group.

Angela Tucker-Dawson,

Suluki Fardan

Doneva Williams, Ladonna Young, Angela Dawson, Natasha George, and Deb Foster owner of The Favor Café stated, “We all know women affected by violence, and when you add the direct and indirect affect on children, it really hits home that we have to stay vigilant and continuously do something about it. ‘Sistas that Rock the Cradle’ is a sisterhood that supports strong

female business leaders. We are doing so many positive things that it is our charge to include those who should be empowered along with us, but are held back by painful obstacles such as domestic violence. We are going to succeed together, and do plenty to reach back in the process,”

If you are interested in partnering with, or inquiring about MCBW, please contact Deb Foster (Director of Development and Communications) at (651) 6466177 or dfoster@mcbw.org.

Elizabeth Glidden announces Eighth Ward Community Leader Awards The Eighth Ward Community Leadership Awards and Stephanie Ball-Bailey Youth Leadership Awards were presented at "Early Mornings with Elizabeth" January 30 at the Turtle Bread Company, 48th Street and Chicago. Award recipients were recognized for thier dedication and service to community.

Community Leadership Awards • Park Avenue Youth and Family Services (Central neighborhood): Providing

service to youth and families in Central, Powderhorn Park, and Phillips neighborhoods with summer camps, academic programs, and family services.

• Catherine Williams (Field neighborhood): Lifelong community leadership and political activism, including service as an election judge for over 20 years.

• Steve Jevning (Kingfield neighborhood): Founder and director of Leonardo's Basement, promoting community connections and creative learning for youth and

adults through a mixture of art, science and technology.

• Ceola Lazo (Regina neighborhood): Inspiring her Green Central students by "making history real", organizing and fundraising for a yearly trip to the Bad Lands.

Stephanie Ball-Bailey Youth Leadership Awards • Shonda Allen (Powderhorn Park neighborhood): Spearheading creation of Kidz Café, a creative combination of nutritional meals and adult

mentorship for neighborhood youth • Ashley Coleman (Bryant neighborhood): Founder of Diva Rags at the age of 15, 23year-old Ashley promotes a business model that incorporates community service and "giving back."

Elizabeth Glidden welcomes questions and comments at (612) 673-2208 or elizabeth.glidden@ci.minneapo lis.mn.us

Catalina Carbonell, Tessa Trepp, Councilmember Elizabeth Glidden, Catherine Williams, Ashley Coleman, Ceola Lazo, Shonda Allen. Not Pictured: Winner Steve Jevning.

Black History Month events at University of Minnesota Black History Month/Youth Essay Contest Tuesday, Feb. 24 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

U of M Sports Pavilion The University of Minnesota Athletics Department will celebrate Black History Month with a youth essay contest Tuesday, Feb. 24 at the Sports Pavilion. The U will bring approximately 400 to 500 5th and

6th graders to campus from Nokomis Montessori Magnet School and Maxfield Magnet Elementary School in St. Paul and Richard R. Green Central Park School, Harvest Preparatory/Seed Academy and WISE Charter School in Minneapolis. For more information contact Tex Ostvig at: uconnects@umn.edu or (612) 625-3958.

The Negro Experience Tuesday, Feb. 24 7-9:30 p.m.

St. Paul Student Center The U of M Black Student Union sponsors an engaging discussion about African American/Black stereotypes in our society today, whether it be through the media or everyday experiences. This will be a riveting discussion so make sure to come out and participate.

Also spread the word and bring friends.

For more information contact the U of M Black Student Union at (612) 624-8938 or bsu@umn.edu.

The Great Debate Wednesday, March 4, 4-6 pm Coffman Union, room 303 The U of M Black Student Union

sponsors a movie watching and debate March 4 from 4-6 p.m. at Coffman Union. Participants will watch the Great Debate, a movie starring Denzel Washington and follow that by participating in a debate. Debaters can join one of two teams, affirmative and negative, arguing on the following sentence: The State of Black America is progressing.

“This event will enlighten the

hearts and souls of all students with the art of persuasion,” said BSU organizers. “There will be controversy, heated argument, strong opinions, sharp minds and the will to outshine the opponents.”

For more information contact the U of M Black Student Union at (612) 624-8938 or bsu@umn.edu.

Vacancies on Minneapolis Commission on Civil Rights violations of their civil rights.

The Civil Rights Commission was created by ordinance Chapter 141, 12-30-75, s. 7 in 1975 to implement the City’s Civil Rights policies through public information and education; mediation and conciliation; and enforcement.

The commission’s members serve on standing committees and hearing panels that hear allegations of citizens regarding

Board Contact: Monica Diaz, 612-673-2091 City Clerk Contact: Julie Meintsma, 612673-3358 Deadline: Applications must be postmarked and/or received by 4:30 pm on February 27, 2009.

Vacancy:

There are currently five (5) vacancies. One term is to start immediately expiring on 08/31/2009. This applicant shall be a Lawyer. Two terms are to start immediately expiring on 08/31/2011. The applicants for these terms shall be Lawyers.

Two terms are to start 08/31/2009 with terms expiring on 08/31/2012. These applicants are non-lawyers.

Requirements: Minneapolis residency is required. Commission members must be known to favor the principals of equal opportunity, non-discrimination and the objectives of the title. Nonattorney members must be willing to contribute 8-10 hours per month on commission related duties/meetings and

attorney members 10 - 12 hours per month. The commission’s members serve on standing committees and hearing panels that review/adjudicate investigative determinations regarding allegations of civil rights violations.

Application Process: Application forms are available: - in electronic form in MS Word, Adobe PDF, online at Current Boards and Commissions Openings or - from the Office of the City Clerk, 304 City Hall, Minneapolis, MN 55415, 612673-3358; Persons may apply on their own behalf, nominate others for consideration, or inform the Office of the City Clerk of persons to whom they wish application materials to be sent.

Selection Process: Applications are forwarded from the City Clerk to the Mayor and Health, Energy and Environment Committee (HE&E). Applicants are then schedules to speak at a public hearing in front of HE&E. Then applications are reviewed by the Mayor, HE&E Chair, and Civil Rights Staff for recommendation to the full Council.

Note: Monthly meetings generally take place on the third Monday of each month, at 6:00 pm in Room 241 of City Hall.

Hearings and Reviews are conducted in the evening and on weekends.

Commission members are compensated $35.00 per monthly meeting and each date they participate in

hearings. Attorneys receive $50.00 per hearing, in which they are the presiding commissioner. The commission has 21 members appointed by the Mayor and Council in staggered years (year 1: Mayor appoints three, Council appoints four; year 2: Mayor appoints four, Council appoints three; year 3: Mayor appoints seven).

A minimum of six and a maximum of eight members must be lawyers.

This information is available in ASCII disk, cassette tape, Braille or large print upon request. Deaf and hard-ofhearing persons may call 612673-3220, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday or the Minnesota Relay Service at TTY 612-673-2626.

Translations - For assistance in translating this information, contact: Hmong - Ceeb toom. Yog koj xav tau kev pab txhais cov xov no rau koj dawb, hu 612-6732800; Spanish - Atención. Si desea recibir asistencia gratuita para traducir esta información, llama 612-673-2700; Somali - Ogow. Haddii aad dooneyso in lagaa kaalmeeyo tarjamadda macluumaadkani oo lacag la’ aan wac 612-673-3500 For additional languages and translation information, please contact 311 (dial 3-1-1 within the 612 area code, or 612-6733000 outside the 612 area code).

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Page 12 • February 23 - March 1, 2009 • Insight News

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SPORTS

NBA mid-season report Mr T’s Sports Report

By Ryan T. Scott ryan@insightnews.com

The NBAAll-Star Game is over, and now it’s time for the real part of the NBA season. If you have ever gone to an NBA basketball game, you have witnessed the slow lumbering that takes place in the first half of the game, versus the “playing for money” (and stats) feel that you get from the second half of the game.

That is unless your star player cashed out in the first half.

Timberwolves superstar Al Jefferson did cash out in the first half of this year after an unfortunate injury, thus the remainder of the teams’ season will pretty much amount to intense practice for budding stars Kevin Love and Randy Foye. Somehow, the Timberwolves product still attracts me because of the talent of those budding stars (add Rodney Carney to those two), and the workman approach of others like Ryan Gomes and veteran Brian Cardinal. One thing is for sure: Timberwolves fans should be acutely tuned in to the best college basketball players, because most likely one of them will be on your team next year.

And in the event everyone comes back healthy, Timberwolves fans may have something fun on their hands.

In the meantime and in between time, how ‘bout we talk about the

lovely array of teams that will more than likely stomp the puppy chow out of the Timberwolves (all the more reason to catch a game, because the victories will be celebrated like Mardi Gras).

The NBA All-Star game was boring as usual, but the other competitions more than made up for it. The kryptonite and Superman dunk was classic, as was that ridiculous off-the-side-of-thebackboard dunk by Dwight Howard.

All of these players and teams are coming to a city near you on their way to try and collect an NBA Championship.

Naturally, the majority of discussion focuses on the 2008 NBA Finals incumbents, the Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers.

The 2009 Celtics don’t quite seem to be what they were last year.

Likely, it simply comes down to the loss of hunger for the championship prize after the feast they devoured last year. Kevin Garnett seems mildly subdued, and the team overall seems to have fallen into the trap of thinking that they can turn their effort on and off at will, and still pull off victories. Most of the time that does seem to be the case, but it leads to a false sense of security.

The best remedy for a false sense of security is a 6’8” 250 lbs man who seems to be able to leap small buildings in a single bound. Of course that man is LeBron James, and he is on a basketball warpath like never before. Most importantly, James’ team, the Cleveland Cavaliers, have managed to acquire the proper level of talent to be worthy of the “Kings” court. All of this, in

Hill From 1 Barack Obama shows us that leaders fix their gaze on the future and what more can be done. Hill shows us that the seed is well planted.

In high school basketball, one of the biggest honors that a young athlete can have bestowed upon them is that of being classified as

http://weblogs.newsday.com/sports/basketball/knicks/blog/natedunk.jpg

Nate Robinson Jumps right over Dwight Howard to win the 09 Dunk Contest addition to the simple fact that the Cavaliers took the Celtics to a full seven-game series last year. So in other words, there should be a changing of the guard from the Eastern Conference, and “King” James should reign supreme from that side of the Mississippi.

As far as the Western Conference goes, you already know the deal. The Los Angeles Lakers are running things despite the recent loss of their budding star center Andrew Bynum. Last year the Lakers made

it to the NBA Finals without Bynum, and it seems likely that they should be able to do the same this year, unless they get some static from the perennial pain-in-the-butt San Antonio Spurs (in my Laker opinion).

Though you probably expect me to be a “homer” and predict that the Lakers will win the Championship, I have to appeal to my greater sports instincts and project the Cleveland Cavaliers as the 2009 NBA Champions. I do have to think that

we may see one of the greatest NBA Finals ever if it involves Kobe and Lebron.

And yes, the only teams that matter are the ones mentioned in this article. Oh yeah, I guess I did mention the Timberwolves. That’s just so everyone comes out and joins me at the wonderful social event known as the Timberwolves basketball games.

I was just kidding about the NBA Champions. As we like to say, “Lakers fool.”

a McDonald’s All-American. Hill received that honor last week joining the likes of most great national basketball players that we see in the NBA and WNBA. A great hope that we can hold onto is that Hill will join the Minnesota Gophers after she concludes her high school career.

Within the crowds that feverishly follow Hill are representatives from many of the very best collegiate programs in the country.

Gopher women’s

basketball head coach Pam Borten chose to be front and center to support Hill, and nobody would blame Borten if she chose to camp out on Hill’s front lawn in hopes that she can secure a player that will likely transform an already great program.

There is a strong feeling of hope that is circulating, and young leaders such as Hill provide a palpable presence for others, young and old, to add as fuel to reach greater heights in our

community. Hill statements show that she is prepared for the work of leadership. Let us celebrate our local young icons and use them as beacons to inspire the many youth whose hope wanes under the pressure of many societal ills.

Sometimes record breakers fade away after setting their mark, and sometimes the mark they make is only a milestone in a greater journey. I think we have a good idea of which category Hill falls into in that respect.

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Insight News • February 23 - March 1, 2009 • Page 13

Survived a lay-off? Don't get too comfortable in an industry that's going, in his words, "the way of the dinosaur."

Rod knows he's lucky to have a job.

But when the fickle finger of fate turns toward him, he wants to be ready. Brainstorming with Rod provided a wealth of ideas which might benefit others in his situation.

Having just moved, Rod can't see asking his wife and teenage son to relocate again very soon. She found a good job, and their son has adapted well to a new school and sports teams. So Rod's opportunities are limited to the area where they live now. Essentially, he has no connections here outside his current employer, which will make it tough to find something new. Rod has to start connecting with people now,

Plan your career

By Julie Desmond julie@insightnews.com Rod relocated with his family for a position he thought was a sure thing.

Six months later, the only thing he knows for sure is that his job is safe for the next few months, but fifty of his co-workers have been let go, into a town where he has no connections,

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both within and outside of his current industry.

The first, easiest tools to fire up are going to be LinkedIn and any professional associations that cater to his niche industry. Because he sees major changes in this line of business, he should also look at professional groups that are peripheral to it: vendors, for example, who service both his industry and others.

Next, he should take advantage of connections his wife and son are making as they adapt to the new community. Schools offer social events and volunteer opportunities that present the dual benefits of encouraging networking and letting Rod stay involved with his son.

Nothing to lose; much to gain.

Rod doesn't have an advanced degree. He is looking at classes offered by the community colleges and universities in his area. Taking a few classes or achieving a degree or certificate will benefit his current employer, and make looking for that next job somewhat easier.

He should consider classes in areas that parallel his industry, in order to help him

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Legal Notice STATE OF MINNESOTA COUNTY OF HENNEPIN

DISTRICT COURT FOURTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT FAMILY COURT DIVISION Court File No. 27 FA 09 823

In Re the Marriage of: Lorrain Shaw-Torbert, Petitioner

SUMMONS

Johnny Bee Torbert, Jr., Respondent.

THE STATE OF MINNESOTA TO THE ABOVE NAMED RESPONDENT: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED AND REQUIRED TO serve upon Petitioner an Answer to the Petition (which must be in writing) that is herewith served upon you, within thirty (30)days after service of this Summon, exclusive of the day of service.

If you fail to do so, judgment by default will be taken against you for the relief demanded in the Petition.

This dissolution includes real property located at 6012 - 68th Avenue North in the City of Brooklyn Park, County of Hennepin, State of Minnesota and legally discribed as: Northview Estates, Lot 009, Block 002.

NOTICE OF TEMPORARY RESTRAINING PROVISIONS UNDER MINNESOTA LAW, SERVICE OF THIS SUMMONS MAKES THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS APPLY TO BOTH PARTIES TO THIS ACTION UNLESS THEY ARE MODIFIED BY THE COURT OR THE PROCEEDING IS DISMISSED: (1.) NEITHER PARTY MAY DISPOSE OF ANY ASSETS EXCEPT (A.) FOR THE NECESSITIES OF LIFE OR FOR THE NECESSARY GENERATION OF INCOME OR PRESERVATION OF ASSETS, (B.) BY AN AGREEMENT IN WRITING, OR (C.) FOR RETAINING COUNSEL TO CARRY ON OR TO CONTEST THIS PROCEEDING; AND (2.) NEITHER PARTY MAY HARASS THE OTHER PARTY; AND (3.) ALL CURRENTLY AVAILABLE INSURANCE COVERAGE MUST BE MAINTAINED AND CONTINUED WITHOUT CHANGE IN COVERAGE OR BENEFICIARY DESIGNATION; AND (4.) PARTIES TO A MARRIAGE DISSOLUTION PROCEEDING ARE ENCOURAGED TO ATTEMPT ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION PURSUANT TO MINNESOTA LAW. ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION INCLUDES MEDIATION, ARBITRATION, AND OTHER PROCESSES AS SET FORTH IN THE DISTRICT COURT RULES. YOU MAY CONTACT THE COURT ADMINISTRATOR ABOUT RESOURCES IN YOUR AREA. IF YOU CANNOT PAY FOR MEDIATION OR ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION, IN SOME COUNTIES, ASSISTANCE MAY BE AVAILABLE TO YOU THROUGH A NONPROFIT PROVIDER OR A COURT PROGRAM. IF YOU ARE A VICTIM OF DOMESTIC ABUSE OR THREATS OF ABUSE AS DEFINIED IN MINNESOTA STATUTES, CHAPTER 518B, YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO TRY MEDIATION AND YOU WILL NOT BE PENALIZED BY THE COURT IN LATER PROCEEDINGS; AND NOTICE OF PARENT EDUCATION PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS (5.) UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, SECTION §518.157, IN A CONTESTED PROCEEDING INVOLVING CUSTODY OR PARAENTING TIME OF A MINOR CHILD, THE PARTIES MUST BEGIN PARTICIPATION IN A PARENT EDUCATION PRORGAM THAT MEETS MINIMUM STANDARDS PROMULGATED BY THE MINNESOTA SUPREME COURT WITHIN 30 DAYS AFTER THE FIRST FILING WITH THE COURT. IN SOME DISTRICTS, PARENTING EDUCATION MAY BE REQUIRED IN ALL COUSTODY OR PARENTING PROCEEDINGS. YOU MAY CONTACT THE DISTRICT COURT ADMINISTRATOR FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION REGARDING THIS REQUIREMENT AND THE AVAILABILITY OF PARENT EDUCATION PROGRAMS. IF YOU VIOLATE ANY OF THESE PROVISIONS, YOU WILL BE SUBJECT TO SANCTIONS BY THE COURT.

Date: Feb. 5, 2009

Signed by Petitioner: Lorraine Shaw-Torbert 6012 - 68th Avenue North Brooklyn Park, Minnesota 55429

transition smoothly into a different type of position. And he should ask his employer to reimburse him for educational expenses, even though times are tough.

Having a job means Rod can start positioning himself for his next search right now. Importantly, he needs to become visible. He should work with his employer to start a blog or podcast which would, again, bring value to his employer and visibility to himself as an individual.

Some people contribute comments or articles to trade magazines, and some make a point to attend conferences and classes sponsored by industry professional groups.

Offering to speak at a conference or chairing a committee brings far more recognition and better connections than simply attending the event. This may be outside Rod's comfort zone, but this is no time to get comfortable.

National networking groups, including BNI International, have chapters in most large cities.

Attending a meeting like this once a week when you are employed might seem like a hassle. However, consider, again, the value your networking can bring to your current employer. The benefit to you personally, of course, goes far beyond that.

Keeping an ear to the ground may sound uncomfortable, but it is the best way to find out about something new while you're still

working. Rod is not actively looking for work right now, but if the past is any indicator of the future, he might want to keep his options open.

Julie Desmond is a Senior Recruiter with The Walstrom Group in Minneapolis.

Write to Julie@insightnews.com.

Page 14 • February 23 - March 1, 2009 • Insight News

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