Insight News ::: 05.26.14

The Dandies Project New coffee table book highlights fashion-forward men of color TURN TO SECTION B

Insight News May 26 - June 1, 2014

Vol. 41 No. 22 • The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com

Reva Chamblis

Brooklyn Park DFL endorses Reva Chamblis for city council The Brooklyn Park DFL Unit held its first Endorsing Convention on May 17 and endorsed Reva Chamblis in her bid for the suburb’s city council.

Chamblis, a 14-year resident of Brooklyn Park, running for the open Brooklyn Park East District seat, won the endorsement running on a platform of prosperity and equality.

Chamblis, who sits on both the city’s Human Rights Commission and Public Safety Task Force, said she intends to use her experience, knowledge and leadership to create strong support for growth of new and existing businesses both small and

CHAMBLIS TURN TO 4

Harry Colbert, Jr.

Joy Marsh Stephens in her Brooklyn Park home.

DFL endorsed for Brooklyn Park Mayor

Joy Marsh Stevens poised to make history

By Harry Colbert, Jr. Contributing Writer Brooklyn Park is the second most diverse city in Minnesota

but one would not know it by looking at its elected officials.

In the history of the city, which was incorporated in 1969, Brooklyn Park has never had a non-white council member

or mayor. Joy Marsh Stevens is looking to change all of that as she seeks to become the city’s next Mayor. And with the endorsements rolling in, Marsh Stevens, who is African-

Target Field Station

American, is primed to make history.

Just this past week Marsh Stevens, 42, received the Brooklyn Park DFL endorsement. That, to go

From transit line to transit system Target Field Station opened last week creating a central, multi-modal transportation hub and community gathering space in downtown Minneapolis.

According to Hennepin County Commissioner Peter McLaughlin, widely viewed as a regional transportation visionary, Target Field Station embodies the principles of open transit by integrating all modes of transit within a strategy of economic development which focuses on architecture that creates iconic indoor and outdoor spaces, appeals to passengers, residents, office workers and visitors alike, as well as integrating culture with transit.

McLaughlin told owners of Twin Cities ethnic media during a guided tour of Target Field Station just days before the May 17 formal opening, “This is the moment of change. We are shifting from being a Light Rail Transit (LRT) line to becoming a regional transit system.”

County Commissioner Peter McLaughlin was Master of Ceremonies for the Target Field Station ribbon cutting

Insight 2 Health

Business

Fight back against spring allergies

The feedback loop

PAGE 2

PAGE 5

STATION TURN TO 3

with the endorsements of SEIU Minnesota State Council, the Minnesota DFL African American Caucus,

STEVENS TURN TO 3

Climate change Disproportionate impact on people of color

By Lydia Schwartz Minneapolis, MN—On May 15, Green For All and The Sierra Club hosted a public forum at Kwanzaa Community Church, located at 3700 Bryant Avenue North, to discuss the realities of climate change and its disproportionate effect on people of color. The event included a panel discussion moderated by United States Representative Keith Ellison (DemocratDistrict 5), spoken word, and a passionate performance by the Minneapolis High School for the Recording Arts’ Green Team, a

CLIMATE TURN TO 5

Moments in Sports

Fatima Muhammad

More money on the horizon for Floyd Mayweather Jr.

Minneapolis Youth Coordinating Board After-school project director

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Page 2 • May 26 - June 1, 2014 • Insight News

FIGHT BACK AGAINST SPRING ALLERGIES

insightnews.com

Special to the NNPA from The Washington Informer Though the allergy season in the District area began late this spring, it has is already shaping into a particularly uncomfortable one. And if recent findings from the Landover, Md.based Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America are any indication, things could become increasingly worse area residents.

The AAFA cited in their annual Spring Allergy Capitals report that D.C. ranked 67 among “the 100 most challenging places to live with allergies” during the spring and fall seasons. The data measured and compared each season includes: pollen scores (airborne grass/tree/weed pollen and mold spores), number of allergy medications used per patient, and number of allergy specialists per patient.

The worst cities for allergies are Louisville, Ky., Memphis, Tenn., and Baton Rouge, La. Baltimore ranked 73rd.

Allergy symptoms can include sneezing, swollen eyes and rashes, but allergies can trigger more serious conditions such as asthma, so people need to pay attention to their bodies.

Nearly 45 million Americans are living with nasal allergies and 25 million have asthma. These patients already have a chronic sensitivity to things like pollen, mold and other airborne allergens, but they can also be more susceptible

to rapid changes in temperature and moisture, and to catching a common cold or flu. A blending of the winter and spring means these patients are at risk of multiple symptoms simultaneously. But with the proper planning and early treatment, patients can prepare and find relief.

Cities with an exceptionally high concentration of trees, grass, or weeds may have more pollen in the air, according to allergist Miguel Wolbert.

Local environmental factors such as wind, humidity, typical temperatures — and air pollution — also play a role in allergies.

“If you are around certain river basins, such as in Ohio or Mississippi, higher pollen counts occur due to high humidity levels.

Pollen thrives in high humidity,” Wolbert said.

Symptoms can include congestion and an itchy, runny nose, as well as asthma-like symptoms.

The Mayo Clinic suggests staying indoors on dry, windy days, in addition to going outside after it rains on high pollen days as the rain helps clear pollen from the air; not hanging laundry outside because pollen can stick to sheets, towels and clothing; delegating lawn mowing and other gardening chores that can stir up allergens to others; paying attention to pollen forecasts and current pollen levels to reduce outdoor time when the levels are high; and keeping indoor air clean by using air conditioning in houses and cars; and finally, keeping indoor air dry with a dehumidifier.

insightnews.com

Insight News • May 26 - June 1, 2014 • Page 3 Envisioned as one of Minneapolis’ foremost gathering spaces, Target Field Station broadens the connections between the North Loop and surrounding neighborhoods to downtown Minneapolis. Because thousands of people will pass through Target Field Station each day, the facility opens the door to redevelopment opportunities that complement the station, Target Field, Minneapolis Farmers Market and the surrounding area.

Target Field Station is a project of Hennepin County, the Hennepin County Regional Railroad Authority, and the Hennepin County Housing and Redevelopment Authority, and

has been a continual collaborative effort between Hennepin County, Knutson Construction, and Perkins Eastman.

Connecting Transit Target Field Station connects communities throughout the region through the Hiawatha LRT (the METRO Blue Line), Northstar Commuter Rail, and the Central Corridor LRT (the METRO Green Line), which will open just prior to the All Star Baseball Game next month. The proposed Southwest and Bottineau Transitways will also stop at Target Field Station destination.

L-R: Pete Rhodes, president of Urban Mass Media Group and BMA Channel 937 Television; Hennepin County Commissioner Peter McLaughlin; Tom Gitaa, publisher of Mshale; Richard Aguilar, president of Aguilar Productions; Al McFarlane, MMMC president and Insight News, editor; and Wameng Moua, publisher of Hmong Today.

Station

• •

From 1

•

Led by Minnesota Multicultural Media Consortium (MMMC) chair, Richard Aguilar, president of Aguilar Productions and publisher of Latino American Today, the tour group included Wameng Moua, publisher of Hmong Today, Tom Gitaa, publisher of Mshale, Pete Rhodes, president of Urban Mass Media Group and BMA Channel 937 Television, and Al McFarlane, MMMC president and Insight News, editor.

McLaughlin said Knutson Company and Hennepin County exceeded all goals for workforce participation and contracts mandated to ensure workers and businesses from communities of color benefitted from the $80 million project.

At the May 17th ceremony, 5th District U.S. Congressman Keith Ellison, (D-MN) acknowledged the presence and contributions of an African American woman who worked as a carpenter on the

• • • • •

Stevens From 1 womenwinning, State Sen. Chris Eaton, State Rep. Debra Hilstrom, Minneapolis Councilman Blong Yang, the mayor of Brooklyn Center and the president of the Vietnamese Community of Minnesota, makes Marsh Stevens a serious contender for the city’s top job.

Marsh Stevens said it is time for things to change in Brooklyn Park.

“The leadership (in Brooklyn Park) is not truly invested in the city,” said Marsh Stevens. “And it has also not recognized the changing demographics in our community and given equal access to true opportunity.”

The city’s diversity is relatively new. In 2000, according to the U.S. Census, the population of Brooklyn Park was a bit more than 70 percent white with just more than 14 percent African-American. Just 10 years later the population shifted to 52 percent white and 24 percent African-American.

Today it’s estimated that the non-white population of this city has overtaken this city’s white population. The northern suburb of Minneapolis has also seen significant increases in the Asian and Somali communities as well.

Marsh Stevens said the changing demographics of Brooklyn Park is one of the things that excites her about the possibility of becoming the city’s next mayor.

“I think Brooklyn Park is one of the best cities in Minnesota,”

• • •

Michelle Jones, Janice Smith, Gregory Thomas, Katrina Smith, Herrin Jones, Sr., and Herrin Jones, Jr. project. He asked Katrina Smith to take a bow to the rousing applause of people assembled to witness the Target Field Station grand opening.

“At the end of the day it’s not only about numbers and percentages, it’s about workers like Katrina and her family who are proud to help build the future of transportation for our region, and who are able to earn living wages as part of the skilled workforce,” he said.

The total cost of Target Field Station came in at $79.3 million, with funding (44 percent) coming from local sources. The remaining funding came from state (22 percent) and federal (34 percent) sources.

said Marsh Stevens, who is a graduate of the University of Minnesota with both a bachelors and masters from the university.

“We have the greatest diversity in the entire state and we have the ability to be a North Star city. We can be the example of how you can live and thrive as a multiracial community.”

Marsh Stevens said a priority as mayor would be to bring jobs and commercial industry

to the suburb. According to the candidate, Brooklyn Park has one of the highest rates of unemployment in the region.

She said Target had promised to bring jobs to the city in exchange for concessions with one of its outlets but the current administration allowed the retailer to renege on its initial promise.

“When it came time to hold Target accountable the city

Cost breakdown: • Hennepin County, $21.4 million • Hennepin County Regional Railroad Authority, $10.8 million

TIGER III Grant, $10 million Federal Highway Administration, $6.9 million Federal Transportation Administration Grant, $500,000 Minnesota State Bonds 2009 appropriation, $3.7 million 2011 appropriation, $11 million 2012 appropriation, $2.5 million Metropolitan Council Formula Funds, $10 million Minnesota Ballpark Authority, $1.5 million City of Minneapolis, $500,000 Mississippi Watershed Management Organization, $500,000

Additional funding was provided by Target, Minnesota Twins and United Properties.

Located next to Target Field, connected to the North Loop neighborhood and adjacent to the historic Warehouse District, Target Field Station connects communities by linking the region’s growing light and commuter rail transit network, and miles of bike and walking trails as well as daily bus operations that connect the Twin Cities Metropolitan area.

allowed Target to renegotiate its deal,” said Marsh Stevens.

“I, along with other concerned individuals as private citizens, had to open talks with Target to make sure Target lives up to its end of the deal.”

The primary for the Brooklyn Park mayoral race is Aug. 5.

You belong.

The health plan with you in mind.

At Medica, you’re not just part of a health plan.

You’re part of a community that believes in better health for all.

Learn more at medica.com/PublicPrograms

Page 4 • May 26 - June 1, 2014 • Insight News

insightnews.com

LIFESTYLE Build healthy relationships with mutual respect Man Talk

By Timothy Houston In relationships, both men and women must be mutually respected, and they both must be seen as a value to the relationship.

There is no big “I” and little “you.” This value transcends into respect and consideration needed to support a healthy relationship.

Mutual respect is the foundation for honesty, trust, and meaningful communication. In order for relationships to remain healthy, both the man and the women must be equally respected and appreciated.

Mutual respect is defined as a proper regard for the dignity of a

person or position. It is the value we see in the other person. For some, mutual respect is a new mindset. The old mindset gives little or no credit or appreciation to what the man or woman is currently doing. It is based on an old script that was shaped during childhood, and it is influenced by the belief that the man and woman have defined roles and neither should receive or expect to receive any praise for doing what it is his or her job to do.

The truth is that anytime anyone shares their hand or heart, they should be valued and appreciated for it.

Mutual respect is intentional.

It is based on traditional values and simple acts of appreciation like a woman saying “thank you” to a man that holds the door open for her, or responding to a simple “good morning,” and a man’s belief that it is still necessary to do these things. The modern day man and woman have been

Men and women, who are disrespected, will lose respect for the other person and the relationship.

programmed to dislike each other. With statements like “there are no good men out there,” or “all men are dogs,” or in the case of men “women are golddiggers” or the “woman’s place is barefoot and pregnant” it is inevitable that this frame of mind will result in a lack of respect. If women that believe that all men

are dogs, at some point, she will start treating men like dogs. And if men believe that a woman’s place is in the home, he will not value her contribution outside of the home. When mutual respect is intentional, all of these misconceptions are pushed to the side and a joyful relationship becomes possible.

Although mutual respect is intentional, it is not universally accepted. This lack of acceptance may be caused by a shift in our culture. Men now have to deal with the fact the woman may earn more money or in some cases are the primary provider for the family. Also, although most women have dispelled the notion that the woman’s place is in the home, many women still hold on to the idea that the man’s place is in the workplace. When situation occur, and the man is not working, a lack of respect for the man may surface. Don’t assume the other person shares your same value. Because each relationship is different, each couple should sit down and discuss what respect feels like and establish boundaries and expectations.

Mutual respect is a must.

When either the man or the women in the relationship is not respected, the relationship as a whole suffers. Men and women,

who are disrespected, will lose respect for the other person and the relationship. As a result, they will seek love, affection, affirmation, and respect in all the wrong places.

This will result in more disrespect and a circle of disrespect will be created. This must come to an end.

The intention of the above is that mutual respect is critical for the enjoyment and survival of any relationship. It is therefore, the responsibility of anyone entering into a relationship to ensure that this foundational building block of a healthy relationship is secured before continuing or allowing the relationship to advance further than it is at the moment.

Timothy Houston is an author, minister, and motivational speaker who is committed to guiding positive life changes in families and communities. For copies of his book, questions, comments or more information, go to www. tlhouston.com.

Changing your life for the better Motivational Moments

By Penny JonesRichardson

This week I would like to talk to you about changing your life. I don’t mean anything drastic, but I am talking about changing for the better. Look at it this way.

Recently, I have found that there are many things that I have to change about my own life. I’ve had to

change my eating habits and start exercising more. This is a goal I set that will also make me feel better in the end. Yes, this one will take a lot of work but in the end it will be the best decision that I’ve ever had to make.

Change can be hard for many people.

Sometimes

you can get accustomed to doing things a certain way and any interruption to this routine could make anyone uncomfortable.

We are creatures of habit and we like for things to stay the same if at all possible.

I remember when a good friend of mine had to adjust

to some huge changes that happened in her life. She had to move her family to another state in order to start another job. Now this was a change in life that was totally unexpected. It was a better job and paid more money, but it was very far from all of her family and friends. Now

RATE INCREASE NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS FOR XCEL ENERGY Xcel Energy has asked the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) for a two year increase in electricity rates. For 2014, the requested increase is for $192.7 million, or about 6.9 percent. For 2015, the requested increase is for $98.5 million, or about 3.5 percent. The total increase for the two year proposal is $291.2 million, or about 10.4 percent.

The MPUC will evaluate our request and will make its decision in 2015. If final rates are lower than interim rates set by the MPUC and effective on January 3, 2014, we will refund customers the difference with interest. If final rates are higher than interim rates, we will not charge customers the difference.

PUBLIC COMMENT Administrative Law Judge Jeanne M. Cochran has scheduled public hearings so that customers may have an opportunity to present their views on the adequacy and quality of Xcel Energy’s service, the level of rates, or other related matters. Any Xcel Energy customer or other person may attend or provide comments at the hearings. You do not need to be represented by an attorney.

Date

Time

June 23

1:00 pm

Earle Brown Heritage Center 6155 Earle Brown Dr., Minneapolis

June 23

7:00 pm

Sabathani Center 310 East 38th St., Minneapolis

June 24

1:00 pm

West Minnehaha Rec Center 685 West Minnehaha Ave., St. Paul

June 24

7:00 pm

Woodbury Central Park 8595 Central Park Pl., Woodbury

June 25

7:00 pm

Civic Center 1 Civic Center Plaza, Mankato

June 26

7:00 pm

Eden Prairie City Center 8080 Mitchell Rd., Eden Prairie

1:00 pm

EFFECT OF RATE CHANGES The table below provides examples of the effect of the proposed increase on typical bills of Xcel Energy’s customers. Individual changes may be higher or lower depending on actual electricity usage.

The rate changes described in this notice have been requested by Xcel Energy. The MPUC may either grant or deny the requested changes, in whole or in part, and may grant a lesser or greater increase than that requested for any customer class or classes.

Average monthly bills:

Customer Classification

Public Hearings Schedule

June 27

Energy Regulation and Planning, the Minnesota Office of Attorney General-Antitrust and Utilities Division, and others to present testimony and to cross-examine each other’s witnesses on the proposed rate increase.

Locations

Lake George Municipal Complex 1101 7th St. South, St. Cloud

BAD WEATHER? Find out if a meeting is canceled – call (toll-free) 1-855-731-6208 or 651-201-2213, or visit www.puc.state.mn.us WRITTEN COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC: You may also send written comments to: Adminsitrative Law Judge Jeanne M. Cochran Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) Email: ratecomments.oah@state.mn.us P.O. Box 64620, St. Paul, Minnesota, 55164-0620 Or Minnesota Public Utilities Commission Email: PublicComments.puc@state.mn.us Telephone: 651-296-0406 or 1-800-657-3782 121 Seventh Place East, Suite 350, St. Paul, Minnesota, 55101 Written comments are most effective when the following items are included: 1. The Docket Numbers (MPUC E-002/GR-13-868 and OAH 68-2500-31182) in the subject line or heading 2. Your name and connection to the docket 3. The specific issues that concern you 4. Any knowledge you have about the issues 5. Your specific recommendation 6. The reason for your recommendation.

Please include your email address and daytime telephone number in the text of your correspondence. The deadline for written comments is July 7, 2014.

IMPORTANT – COMMENTS ARE PUBLICLY AVAILABLE Comments will be made available to the public on the MPUC’s website, except in limited circumstances consistent with the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act. The MPUC does not edit or delete personal identifying information from submissions.

Average Monthly kWh Usage

Current Monthly Cost

2014 Interim Monthly Increase*

Proposed 2015 Final Monthly Increase*

Residential Overhead line service

553

$67.29

$3.39

$8.65

Residential - Underground line service

812

$97.06

$4.86

$12.12

Energy-Controlled (Dual Fuel)

986

$74.81

$3.05

$5.39

Small General Service

936

$107.12

$5.23

$11.67

1,426

$139.25

$6.38

$13.98

17,020

$1,559.74

$70.55

$150.78

183,180

$13,902.48

$578.07

$1,154.45

64,337

$7,180.66

$351.59

$873.67

581,635

$50,087.99

$2,221.88

$5,026.71

566

$68.73

$3.42

$7.65

5,085

$540.15

$25.98

$54.85

Small General Time-of-Day Service General Service General Time-of-Day Service Peak-Controlled Service Peak-Controlled Timeof-Day Service Small Municipal Pumping Municipal Pumping

*Monthly increases do not include the portion of your bill for fuel, riders, sales taxes and municipal franchise fees, and may vary by customer based on usage.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Xcel Energy’s current and proposed rate schedules are available at: Xcel Energy Web: http://www.xcelenergy.com/About_Us/ Rates_&_Regulations/Rates,_Rights_&_Service_Rules Phone: 1-800-895-4999 414 Nicollet Mall Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Minnesota Department of Commerce Web: https://www.edockets.state.mn.us/EFiling/search.jsp Select 13 in the year field, enter 868 in the number field, select Search, and the list of documents will appear on the next page.

Phone: 651-539-1534 85 Seventh Place East, Suite 500 St. Paul, Minnesota 55101 ACCOMMODATIONS If any reasonable accommodation is needed to enable you to fully participate in these public hearings (e.g. sign language, foreign language interpreter, large print materials), please contact the MPUC at 651-296-0406 or 1-800-657-3782 one week in advance of the hearing. Citizens with hearing or speech disabilities may call through their preferred Telecommunications Relay Service.

EVIDENTIARY HEARINGS Formal evidentiary hearings on Xcel Energy’s proposal are scheduled to start on August 11, at 9:30 a.m. in the Large Hearing Room, Minnesota Public Utilities Commission, 121 Seventh Place East, Suite 350, St. Paul. The purpose of the evidentiary hearings is to allow Xcel Energy, the Minnesota Department of Commerce-Division of Energy Resources, www.xcelenergy.com © 2014 Xcel Energy Inc.

this took some getting used to. Her whole life changed very quickly and it was an adjustment.

Her children were also affected by this change. They had to change schools and make new friends. (This can be a huge hurdle for some children.)

But the good part of this was that she looked at it as another adventure for her and her children and she taught them to do the same. She set a goal to learn everything about her new state and find places of interest for her and her family.

This change worked for her, but however there are some individuals that just don’t welcome change well at all. They may like how things fall into place or that their life has been the same for so long and maybe change is not possible. Maybe they think they don’t deserve anything to go any differently for them. Maybe they think that their time has come and gone, and that this is the best that life has to offer them.

I believe that anyone who wants to change their life can.

It starts with setting goals and working on them. Don’t let the fear of change stop you from doing anything you set out to do.

And as always, stay focused, stay determined, and keep striving for greatness.

Penny Jones-Richardson is a published author and life coach. She can be reached via her website at www. thequeensproject.com or email at penny@thequeensproject. com.

Chamblis From 1 large. As a city council member Chamblis said she would also support inclusive strategies and decisions to create prosperity for all segments of its populations.

The newly DFL-endorsed candidate said her desire is to create more well-paying jobs and a wide spectrum of housing options, including senior housing within the city. She also said she plans to help make Brooklyn Park a destination place by supporting development plans for available spaces and open land to create community centers, a variety of restaurants, more retail and entertainment venues.

Also endorsed by the convention Rich Gates for Brooklyn Park Central District City Council and Joy Marsh Stephens for Brooklyn Park Mayor.

The goal of the convention was to endorse viable Brooklyn Park candidates that have demonstrated progressive Democratic values while being intimately acquainted with the issues that concern Brooklyn Park.

insightnews.com

Insight News • May 26 - June 1, 2014 • Page 5

BUSINESS

The feedback loop Plan Your Career

By Julie Desmond julie@insightnews.com This wasn’t my idea. But I wish it were. It wasn’t my friend Kirsten’s idea, either, but is works so well that she has adopted it as her own. It’s the Feedback Loop and HR Director Kirsten uses it

INSIGHT NEWS www.insightnews.com

Insight News is published weekly, every Monday by McFarlane Media Interests.

Editor-In-Chief Al McFarlane CFO Adrianne Hamilton-Butler Publisher Batala-Ra McFarlane Associate Editor & Associate Publisher B.P. Ford Vice President of Sales & Marketing Selene White Culture and Education Editor Irma McClaurin Director of Content & Production Patricia Weaver Sr. Content & Production Coordinator Ben Williams Editorial Intern Abeni Hill Production Intern Sunny Thongthi Distribution/Facilities Manager Jamal Mohamed Receptionist Lue B. Lampley Contributing Writers Harry Colbert, Jr. Julie Desmond Fred Easter Timothy Houston Penny Jones-Richardson Toki Wright Alaina L. Lewis Darren Moore Alysha Price Photography Michele Spaise Corey Collins Contact Us: Insight News, Inc. Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Ave. N. Minneapolis., MN 55411 Ph.: (612) 588-1313 Fax: (612) 588-2031 Member: Minnesota Multicultural Media Consortium (MMMC), Midwest Black Publishers Coalition, Inc. (MBPCI), National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) Postmaster: Send address changes to McFarlane Media Interests, Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55411.

“all the time,” which means at work, at home, at dance class and anywhere she spends time with people who want to improve a skill or reach a goal.

The Feedback Loop (FL) has four parts: What’s working?

What’s tough? What could you do? And, I have some feedback for you, if you want it.

Straightforward? Sure. Easy?

Well, yes and no. Easy, once you get used to the taste of blood in your mouth resulting from biting your tongue. The FL works because the insight comes from the person who wants to improve.

Not from the boss, coach or parent.

This makes perfect sense. A person climbing Mount Everest knows when she’s not quite at the summit. Likewise, the person missing sales goals knows his paycheck isn’t what it could be.

FL begins with the premise that our friend is aware and has given it some thought. Kirsten’s role is to let him unwrap the package and discover his own solutions and then support him in those

solutions as he improves. Kirsten says anyone can do this.

First you ask, “What’s working?” Then listen and repeat what you hear. “So, you’re saying that when you put gas in your vehicle, it runs better?”

“Yes,” says your friend,

appreciating your support. This is when you take the first bite of your own tongue. Don’t fix the problem, even if the solution is jumping up and down in the room. Wait. Listen. Ask the next question.

“What’s been a challenge

for you?” Listen. Wait. Bite. If you must make noise, make it a paraphrase of what you’ve heard.

“So, you’re saying, when you run out of gas, the car stops moving?”

“Yes, yes,” says your friend, grateful to be understood.

“What might you do about

that?” Listen. Listen. Wait for it…

“I could carry a gas can in the trunk in case I run out,” your friend proclaims. Amen?

“Yes,” you tell him, “You could do that.” You pause to be sure he’s out of ideas and then say, “I have some feedback for you, if you want it.” If. You. Want.

It. You must be willing to sever that tongue between your teeth if your offer is denied. If your friend says, no, I’m good, then your job is to leave the door open.

“Okay, just know I’m here for you.” This is a neutral statement: no emotion attached. No guilt on either side. According to Kirsten, people should be allowed to fail sometimes. And if they do, they will know they can trust you to be cool when they come back looking for feedback… or a ride to the gas station.

Julie Desmond is IT & Software Recruiting Manager with George Konik Associates, Inc. Write to Julie at jdesmond@ georgekonik.com.

Graduating to a lifetime of giving FUNdraising Good Times

By Mel and Pearl Shaw Happy graduation! You did it!

This column is for graduates and their families. We salute your commitment to your education, your future and the future of your family. Graduating from high school, community college, a technical training school, or a four year college or university is a big deal. No two ways about it. You are celebrating a

Climate From 1 youth hip-hop group dedicated to environmental justice.

The forum was held in response to the recent release of the National Climate Assessment, created by the United States Global Change Research Program.

The scientific research team was established by a presidential initiative in 1989 and was made mandatory by Congress the following year. The lengthy report confirms that current trends in energy consumption will continue to adversely damage the planet and the health of its inhabitants.

According to the National Client Assessment, humaninduced climate changes will amplify existing health threats.

Children, the elderly, the sick, the poor, and communities of color are especially vulnerable.

At the public forum, Nikki Silvestri, Executive Director at Green For All, spoke to the importance of the government finally addressing the impact that environmental changes has on human health, especially for people of color. “African Americans are four times as likely to have asthma,” she said. “This is huge for us.”

Rising carbon dioxide levels and toxic air pollutants around the globe has increased the overall amount of particulate matter and ground-level ozone, creating smog. Smog is associated with many health problems including diminished lung function, asthma, and premature deaths.

Air pollution also contributes to higher pollen concentrations and longer pollen seasons, increasing allergic sensitizations and asthma episodes.

The global warming caused by excess carbon in the atmosphere has triggered many changes to the Earth’s climate. Over the last 50 years, much of the United States has seen increases in prolonged periods of excessively high temperatures, heavy downpours, intense winter storms, tornadoes, severe floods, and droughts.

Extreme rainfall and rising temperatures can also foster indoor air quality problems, including the growth of indoor fungi and molds, increasing respiratory

milestone and the beginning of “what’s next.” We hope you will realize the economic and social benefits of your education. And we hope you will take the time to thank your family for their encouragement. It takes a lot of support to persist towards a degree and to graduate. And, as you well know, it takes money.

As a new graduate, we encourage you to make a commitment to “paying it forward.” Here are three suggestions to transform you from a graduate into a major donor. You can follow these steps even if you graduated years ago: it’s never too late to make a difference.

First, make a small monthly commitment to your alma

mater. Look at your budget and find an amount you can commit to giving every month.

Automate your giving through a direct transfer or debit. Set it up and forget about it. As you go through life you can increase your monthly gift. If you start with $25 a month, you can increase to $35 a month next year, and $45 a month the following year. Notice we are talking about monthly gifts.

That’s because it is easier to give small consistent amounts, than it is to give a one-time larger gift.

Twenty-five dollars a month is $300. But for many people, it is difficult to give $300 – there is always another need. Twentyfive dollars is more manageable.

Second, create a small

giving circle to support your school. This can be formal, as in the Ujima Legacy Fund that Reginald Gordon discussed in our last two columns, or it can be informal. For example, think about your high school and the impact ten or twenty graduates can make by giving on a monthly basis. Using the starting point of $25, you could collectively give $250 to $500 dollars depending upon how many people participate.

Third, if you are a member of an alumni association take a long hard look at the expenses associated with homecoming, reunions and other special events. Can we reverse the trend by spending more on scholarships than hotels, travel,

parties and lavish awards?

You can make a difference in the culture of your alumni association: let’s put students first.

Over time you can grow into a major donor who shares his or her success with the school or college that prepared you for your life and career. Start small – plan BIG. Copyright 2014 – Mel and Pearl Shaw

and asthma-related conditions.

While heat stroke remains the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the United States, heat waves are also associated with an increase in hospital admissions for aggravated cardiovascular, kidney, and respiratory disorders.

The most direct way to mitigate the effects of climate change is to reduce emissions from the energy sector, by using energy more efficiently and switching to lower carbon sources. The demand for electricity is high and a failure in the electrical grid, because of a disruption in the supply of fossil fuels or adverse weather, would shut down and threaten many vital systems including water treatment, transportation services, public health, and food safety.

According to the National Climate Assessment, many Midwestern

cities have aging infrastructures that are particularly vulnerable to heat waves, flooding, and other forms of extreme weather.

Research shows that carbon dioxide emissions can also be lowered by adopting energyefficient components and systems in buildings, vehicles, manufacturing processes, and appliances. At the public forum, Silvestri discussed how easy it is to make construction designs ‘greener,’ and the importance of supporting the few government institutions who do take a stand against environmentallydamaging practices. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does have the authority to regulate greenhouse gas emissions, and the efficiency of appliances, under the Clean Air Act of 1970. However, the

agency faces stiff opposition from large businesses who are reluctant to change their practices. “Our job is to protect the EPA, just as they protect us,” Silvestri said. “Green construction isn’t rocket science; it’s just that we’ve never done it before.”

Marty Cobenais, an organizer for the Indigenous Environmental Network and member of the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians, was also a panelist at the public forum and discussed the array of human-induced, climate change impacts and vulnerabilities that directly affect the native peoples of Minnesota. Future climate change impacts on tribal groups are projected to be especially severe, since these impacts are compounded by poor social

and economic conditions made persistent by historical and contemporary government policies.

According to the National Climate Assessment, reservation lands have experienced significant decreases in water quality and the environmental damages from mining fossil fuels are forcing many tribal communities to relocate. In addition, the lack of government mechanisms to fund or support them is causing a painful loss of their community and culture, further exacerbating tribal impoverishment. “We need to leave the fossil fuels in the ground,” Cobenais said, “and live in a good way with Mother Earth… I think that if we take it in baby steps, we can lower our carbon footprint.”

Mel and Pearl Shaw position nonprofits, colleges and universities for fundraising success.

For help with your campaign visit www. saadandshaw.com or call (901) 522-8727.

Page 6 • May 26 - June 1, 2014 • Insight News

insightnews.com

More money on the horizon for Floyd “Money” Mayweather Jr. Moments in Sports

By Ryan T. Scott ryan@insightnews.com Floyd Mayweather, Jr. brought home the exclamation point to a memorable May Saturday in sports.

Three seventh games, of seven-game NBA playoff series and a unique Kentucky Derby spectacle preceded the 12-round bout between Marcos Maidana, WBA (Super) Welterweight Champion, and Mayweather, WBC Welterweight Champion. When the disputed gloves came off (or on), payper-view customers felt a deep sense of satisfaction, and Mayweather walked off with a new championship belt, $32 million, a couple of knots on his forehead, and a most admirable list of accounts receivable; including the immediately requested rematch with Maidana.

Several worthy young suitors await the chance to provide Mayweather with his first loss; at this point, to do so would make history. Amir Khan, Kell Brook (undefeated), Shawn Porter and Adrien Broner are just a few principal contenders in the Welterweight (147-pound) division. Manny Pacquiao is the top rated contender. Though we can stop short of announcing a rebirth of a golden age in the middleweight classes, things are far from the days of “Marvelous” Marvin Hagler, Tommy

Wikimedia Commons

Floyd Mayweather Jr. “Hitman” Hearns, and “Sugar” Ray Leonard. Yet guarding against youth and inspired aggression – in interviews many young boxers have proclaimed beating Mayweather to be their daily inspiration and mental picture – Mayweather should keep a choosey eye with future opponents, as he has in recent

years.

Mayweather, 37, is now 46-0 in his 16-year career.

Known as a master of the “sweet science” of boxing, barber shop arguments for Mayweather’s rights to the title of “greatest ever” are sure to ring louder as he approaches a potential professional career without

North Minneapolis kicks-off Open Streets Minneapolis summer event on May 31 The first of this summer’s Open Streets Minneapolis events will take place in North Minneapolis and will showcase the potential of a Greenway in the location of the event.

The North Minneapolis Greenway Experience will take place on Saturday, May 31 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and will close Humboldt Avenue North and Girard Avenue North from West Broadway Avenue to 42nd Avenue North to motor-vehicle traffic to allow families and neighbors to walk, bike, skate, have fun and shop in a safe, car-free environment.

Open Streets events are designed to help promote environmentally friendly transportation choices such as walking, bicycling and mass transit. They also help promote good public health by encouraging active, healthy lifestyles.

The location of the North Minneapolis Greenway Experience is where a Greenway is currently being

considered. A network of 12 neighborhood, community and culturally based organizations are conducting outreach activities to engage area residents to gauge their interest in developing the Greenway. “We are proud and excited to have the kickoff Open Streets Minneapolis event in our neighborhood,” says Will Lumpkins.

The North Minneapolis Greenway Experience will feature a pop-up roller rink, a portable playground, an urban farm fair, a BMX stunt show, a 3:3 basketball tournament, gardening demonstrations, live bands, a bike scavenger hunt, an old North Minneapolis history display and a pop-up flower park, as well as other activities and displays.

The first Open Streets event in Minneapolis was held in 2011 on Lyndale Avenue South and drew more than 5,000 participants. Last year, four events were held and this year six events are scheduled.

Open Streets Minneapolis

events are now officially sanctioned by the City of Minneapolis. The Minneapolis City Council authorized the Department of Public Works and Police Department to provide in-kind services for the events.

Open Streets Minneapolis has a number of financial and in-kind sponsors including the Minneapolis Bicycle Coalition, the Center for Prevention at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, City of Minneapolis, Metro Transit, 89.3 The Current, car2go Minneapolis and Peace Coffee.

For more information on this year’s events, visit the Open Streets website at www. openstreetsmpls.com.

To learn more about bicycling in Minneapolis, visit the City’s bicycling website at w w w. m i n n e a p o l i s m n . g o v / bicycles. More information on the North Minneapolis Greenway project can be found at www.minneapolismn. gov/health/living/ northminneapolisgreenway.

Classifieds APARTMENT OPENINGS Delton Manor located in Bemidji, MN is accepting applications for future 1, 2, & 3 Bedrm apartment openings.

Delton Manor has 3 two-bedrm handicapped accessible units located in the building. Delton Manor promotes equal housing opportunities for all perspective residents regardless of race, color, creed, sex, sexual preference, religion, handicap, marital status, familial status, national origin or source of income. For applications and qualifications, contact NANCY at 218-759-2523.

AN EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY.

RENTALS Tapestry Management, LLC has various sized apartments/townhomes for rent in the following locations: St. Paul, Golden Valley, Mankato, Red Wing, N. St. Paul, Rochester, Plymouth, Jordan, Winona, Olivia, and Redwood Falls. Rental assistance is available to qualified applicants in all locations. Please contact the appropriate location for availability and additional information.

Birmingham Townhomes – St. Paul 952-854-8800 Calvary Center Apartments – Golden Valley 763-546-4988 Colonial Square Apartments – Mankato 507-345-1321 Cooperidge Apartments – Red Wing 651-388-1500 Franklyn Park Apartments – N. St. Paul 651-770-1504 Innsbruck Townhomes – Rochester 507-289-1319 Mission Oaks Townhomes – Plymouth 763-559-5770 Newbridge Apartments – Rochester 507-282-8284 Northgate Community Housing – Rochester 507-289-1319 Oakridge Apartments – Rochester 507-281-1031 Schule Haus – Jordan 952-492-2084 Wapasa Apartments – Winona 507-429-9261 Westcourt Apartments – Olivia 320-523-2101 Westfalls Townhomes – Redwood Falls 507-641-5933

blemish. This final decade (or so) of his career could be a mesmerizing attraction in a way similar to the final innings of a no-hitter in baseball.

Rocky Marciano – now forever linked to the movie “Coming to America” – is the most recognized undefeated boxing champion in the sport’s history.

Bergstad Properties is accepting application for Seniors 62 and older. Applicant must be income eligible and must qualify for Section 8 Housing. Please visit our web site at www.bergstad.com for a virtual tour and application.

The following sites are currently accepting application.

understand how to best combat Maidana’s aggressive style.

Or maybe he just got tired of getting hit. Those hits may have had more painful consequences if long contract negotiations hadn’t demanded Maidana use a more standard style of glove than those he prefers. At this point in Mayweather, Jr.’s career, every detail must be scrutinized, because suitors may resort to unsavory tactics, considering the history and money to be made.

Boxing, like many sports, can heavily depend upon the match-up of styles. For several recent years, the Mayweather, Jr. versus Pacquiao match-up has been the most anticipated potential bout for boxing fans (contractual details and issues with management have been the dilemma). Maidanas’ relentless approach resembles that of Pacquiao, and thus provides a hint of foreshadowing to imagine the coveted bout. Pacquiao’s 2012 loss to Timothy Bradley has allowed the other mix of matchups to become more attractive for Mayweather, Jr. One could argue that the loss created a perfect storm for Mayweather, Jr.’s future line-up of fights; and thus paychecks.

The middleweight classes are keeping up the glamour in boxing. The 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro could be a potential platform to boomerang a new crop of champions into the next generation of boxers – perhaps even “the one” to beat Floyd “Money” Mayweather, Jr. I doubt it. He’s too close to undisputed history, and potential $70 million paydays make Money allergic to losses.

Back to Back State AAU Champions

Phone: 612.588.1313

Section 8 Housing for Seniors 62 and older

Mayweather’s opponents (haters too) are watching the sands of his career’s hourglass with a less celebratory mindset.

Emboldened by an impressive showing against Mayweather, Maidana had his own thoughts about Mayweather’s place in history.

“He didn’t fight like a man,” said Maidana (note to kids – when someone can’t crack your discipline, their last resort is to attack your pride … say, no go).

After throwing a soul tiring 858 punches, 637 of which connected, Maidana has the value of being able to say that he definitely took a swing at history.

It can also be credited that his successful punches landed with a purposeful thud, and resulted in a record number of punches (221) landed on Mayweather. Yet it was Mayweather’s clean power shots to Maidana’s jaw that left the greater boxing impression for the evening; though an adjusted game plan in the future would be advisable, if he wants to keep his titles.

According to Mayweather, he defied his fathers’ instruction to avoid the heavy activity expected from Maidana. Mayweather, Sr. also suggests that his son should avoid a rematch with Maidana all together. Instead, Mayweather, Jr. quite impressively stood firm and square before Maidana.

Early rounds in the match had Mayweather, Jr. seem to follow Muhammad Ali’s script for the “rope-a-dope” (purposely sandbagging and allowing the opponent to tire out) yet later in the bout it showed that it simply may have taken him time to

7th grade MN Stars...the Stars knocked out MN Crossfire who they lost to two weeks ago (our only lost this year!)... and beat North Tartan in the championship. Four of the young ladies from this team all play for Minneapolis Farview Park Cardinals who placed 2nd in State this winter (D’layla “Lay-bron” Chakolis, Danella “Shay Shay” Gardner, Aja “Da Thief” Wheeler, and Robbie “Robbie-Rob” Grace). What a great weekend! Both teams are coached by Jamal Guy and W.H. Nelson.

Fax: 612.588.2031

Email: info@insightnews.com

Vacancies Cokato Apts, Cokato, MN (a seniors complex 62 or over or handicapped) has vacancies on 2nd Floor for one BR apts. Waiting list open. Contact Don at 320-286-2758. E-Mail cokapts@embarqmail.com

Townhomes Available

West Falls Estates

Rent based on 30% of income

International Falls, MN. 56649 Rent based on 30% Of adjusted income Call Patricia Brown At 218-283-4967 TDD 800-627-3529

Park Street Apartments 321 West Park St. Cannon Falls, MN. 55009 507-263-4773 200 Levee Drive Apartments 200 Levee Drive Shakopee, MN. 55379 952-445-2001

Fieldcrest in Moorhead, MN

2 & 3 bdroms open MetroPlains Management

701-232-1887 www.metroplainsmanagement.com

RENTAL UNITS AVAILABLE The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Housing Authority has rental units available in Cass County, MN. Please call 218-335-8280. Must meet certain qualifications.

Central Minnesota Housing Partnership

Is currently accepting applications for Residency or the waiting list at the following property locations Granite Ledge Townhomes Tower Terrace Townhomes Ridgeview Court Townhomes Timberland Townhomes Grand Oaks Townhomes Grand Oaks Court Townhomes Meadow View Townhomes Northcrest Townhomes Braham Heights Johnson Apartments Gilmanor Apartments Groundhouse Apartments Randall Apartments Waverly Community Homes Eden Place Apartments Highland Court Townhomes River View Townhomes West Birch Townhomes Sprucewood Townhomes Brickstone Apartments Shoreline Common’s Apartments

Cold Spring, MN Cambridge, MN Paynesville, MN Brainerd, MN Baxter, MN Baxter, MN Zimmerman, MN Mora, MN Braham, MN Pine City, MN Foley, MN Ogilvie, MN Randall, MN Waverly, MN Eden Valley, MN Little Falls, MN Sauk Centre, MN Princeton, MN Baxter, MN Avon, MN Howard Lake, MN

320-685-8650 763-691-1091 320-243-2010 218-822-3701 218-822-3661 218-822-3661 763-856-8048 320-679-4592 320-258-0682 320-258-0682 320-258-0682 320-258-0682 320-258-0682 320-258-0682 320-258-0675 320-616-7094 320-352-5101 763-389-2400 320-822-3661 320-258-0675 320-543-2663

Notice of U.S. Magistrate Judge Vacancies The Judicial Conference of the United States has authorized the appointment of one full-time and one part-time United States Magistrate Judge for the United States District Court for the District of Minnesota.

The salary of the full-time position is $181,332 per year and the position will be located in Minneapolis or St. Paul. The term of office for a fulltime magistrate judge is eight years; incumbents may be reappointed to successive terms. The salary of the part-time position is $13,439 per year and the position will be located in Bemidji.

The term of office for a part-time magistrate judge is four years; incumbents may be reappointed to successive terms.

The full public notice, application instructions for each position, and application form is available on the Court’s website at www.mnd.uscourts.gov.

Applications must be received no later than 5:00 p.m. Central Time on Monday, June 16, 2014.

insightnews.com

Insight News • May 26 - June 1, 2014 • Page 7

Fatima Muhammad: Minneapolis Youth Coordinating Board(YCB) After-school project director

GATEWAY TO OPPORTUNITY

MINNEAPOLIS URBAN LEAGUE

8 8 TH A N N I V E R S A R Y

A NEW ERA OF

TRANSFORMATION

By Abeni Hill

SAVE THE DATE

Fatima Muhammad was named the after-school project director of the Minneapolis Youth Coordinating Board (YCB) last month.

The YCB goal is to provide Minneapolis youth with opportunities that promote overall well being including a substantial education and overall in health and safety. Muhammad has already begun working with the YCB to uphold its mission.

“My focus has been youth development,” said Muhammad.

Recently, Muhammad has been working with YCB to create a website for parents, caregivers and youth. According to Muhammad, this online tool will help the community have access to high quality afterschool programming.

“Now the city will be able to have a resource that all families and youth will be able to access for programs during out of school time,” said Muhammad. “Families will have access to safe and high quality opportunities.”

Muhammad said afterschool programming could help youth explore different aspects of their personality and help them gain independence. “Youth need variety to develop their own person,” said Muhammad, who said being involved in an after-school program can enhance a student’s interest while diminishing the chance to be involved in negative

June 19, 2014 Keynote Speaker

Marc H. Morial National Urban League President & CEO

Hilton Minneapolis Hotel

Fatima Muhammad activities. The program will offer a variety of different types of activities such as athletics, music and theater.

“Studies show that youth not engaged in out of school time are more likely to engage in delinquency,” said Muhammad.

Muhammad said she is looking forward to this new role.

“I am excited to be the one delegated to leading this project,” said Muhammad.

While Muhammad’s new role focuses on development of after-school programming, she has a background working with youth after school programming

and youth development at the YWCA. During her years at the YWCA, Muhammad led the Black Achiever’s Program.

Prior to her work with the YWCA, Muhammad worked with young people who were dealing with challenging home lives and helped them become independent.

Muhammad said her passion is youth empowerment.

“If we don’t invest in youth, we will fail as a society,” said Muhammad. “They are our future, they are our now.”

For more information about YCB and the upcoming after-school programming visit www.ycb.org.

The Embassy Suites Minneapolis North would love to help you plan your perfect day! We are here to cater to your needs and can customize menus for your event.

The Embassy Suites is a great location for: Wedding Receptions Rehearsal Dinners Fundraisers Family Celebrations Call : 763.560.2700 for availability or to schedule a tour

JK Movement mentors, empowers young people JK Movement participants from Murray Junior High School successfully completed the first ever service-learning project fully manned by JK Movement scholars.

Both the Theresa Living Center and Caroline Family Services in St. Paul benefited from the students’ efforts. The school’s participants designed, organized and executed a clothing drive resulting in more than 300 pieces of clothing being donated. JK Movement founder and executive director, Johnny Allen, Jr., delivered the donated clothing to the organizations.

The JK Movement is a non-profit organization providing mentorship programs for youth in the metro and surrounding areas. Its mission is to empower and inspire effective change in

the minds, bodies and spirits of young people.

Program areas the organization provides services in include life-skills and healthier living), sports team leadership training and mentoring. The JK Movement programs will form partnerships with local school districts, non-profit organizations and the juvenile court system. According to those affiliated with the organization, the JK Movement’s goals are to foster a commitment to young people that will promote pro-social friendships, strong interpersonal skills and reassert a sense of hope for the future.

To learn more about The JK Movement, visit www. thejkmovement.com, email johnny@thejkmovement.com or call (612) 275-0804.

RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY FOR SUMMER TERM AT SAINT SAI PAUL PUBLIC SCHOOLS! Now's the time to plan for Summer 2014!

Summer Term (S-Term) is a way for students to have an active mind and body throughout the summer. At Saint Paul Public Schools, students in grades K-12 can learn important academic and leadership skills. Session 2 starts July 14, and it’s not too late to reserve your spot.

If you have questions, please call the Office of Alternative Education at 651-744-8020 or visit summer.spps.org.

LA ESCUELA DE VERANO 2014. Para más información, visite summer.spps.org. | TACLIINTA DUGSIYADA XAGAAGA 2014.

Wixii macluumaad dheeraad ah waxaad ka eegtaa summer.spps.org | KEV KAWM NTAWV LUB CAIJ NTUJ SO 2014. Yog xav paub ntxiv, mus saib hauv summer.spps.org |

Photographer

Afterschool scholars from Murray Junior High

www.minneapolisnorth.embassysuites.com

Page 8 • May 26 - June 1, 2014 • Insight News

insightnews.com

Choose well New choices in health care are here. Introducing UCare ChoicesSM, affordable new health plans from a leader in Minnesota health care, with coverage for young adults, families, empty nesters and everyone in between.

Find out more at UCareChoices.org, and look for us on the MNsure health insurance marketplace. Choose well. Choose UCare Choices.

The

Dandies Project New coffee table book highlights fashion-forward men of color

S Above (From left to right) Dandies Amara Kamara, Byron Shannon, B Justin Parker, Chris McDuffie, Reuben Thomas and Jamel Harris walking the walk of being a Dandy.

Dandy, Dane Johnson (left)

ttyle tyl yle is subjective.

But when it comes to tthe he image of young men of color, color a general perception is i th thatt too many dress in a manner that dishonors their elders and shows a lack of selfrespect. There have been calls from both outside and within the community to have Black males pull up their pants and quit showing the world their brand of underwear. Several cities even have laws on the books saying as much.

But that perception of young Black males does not apply to all. And with a new locally-produced coffee table picture book, several are doing their part to erase the unflattering picture

of unkempt Black men altogether. If the participants of the book have their way, they’ll be having young men cinching up their belts and wanting to be “Dandies.”

“The Dandies Project” is a hardback, full-color photo book of Twin Cities men of color who, according to the project’s visionary exemplify class, style and sophistication.

Complete with the gentlemen’s bios, the book tells a story with pictures and words.

“My inspiration was to have young men of color to serve as role models for other men of color,” said Richard Moody, who conceptualized the book. “I know what experiences we have as men of color if we don’t network collectively.”

Moody, along with

several other area men, took part in photo shoots displaying their unique senses of fashion. Most are donning suits and bow ties.

Moody said that’s the whole point about being a Dandy.

“We know when we go to church in our ‘Sunday best’ we feel good about ourselves.

When we pull up our pants we feel good about ourselves,” said Moody. “That’s what being a Dandy is all about. It’s not about the designer or how much something costs, it’s about looking your best and feeling good about yourself.”

“The Dandies Project” model, Amara Kamara, said the book and project was something he couldn’t say no to.

“I’m excited to be seen as a role model for young Black youth,” said Kamara, 46, who

owns a fitness consulting business. “For me it’s all about leadership. It’s not just about the clothes. It’s about how you represent and present yourself.”

Kamara has lived in the Twin Cities for the past 14 years and is a native of Liberia.

Fellow Dandy, Jamel Harris said he was a Dandy long before the book.

“For me being a Dandy is just about being me,” said Harris, 36, who is a model and actor. “It’s how you brand yourself. It’s having that confidence all of us Dandies in one way or another have.”

Kamara said being a Dandy is carrying on a tradition of superior dress that was in many ways abandoned.

“When I saw pictures of Malcolm X, Stokely Carmichael – (the Rev. Dr.)

Martin Luther King, Jr. – they spoke before they even opened their mouths,” said Kamara.

“How do we bring that back?

‘The Dandies Project.’”

The youngest Dandy, Dane Johnson, 24, said his father taught him to be a Dandy.

“My father would always put emphasis on dressing in a way that respects yourself,” said Johnson. “Being a Dandy sets a better precedent for the youth.”

According to Moody, “The Dandies Project” is going to be the basis for a program to be implemented in an area charter school highlighting the importance of personal appearance and self-respect.

Currently the book is on sale at the Minnesota Art Institute and online at www. iammoody.com.

Photos Nick Gallop

Below Taste-maker, Nick Hooks was one of the first to sign on with “The Dandies Project.” (right)

B Harry Colbert, Jr. By Contributing Writer C o

Page B2 • May 26 - June 1, 2014 • Aesthetically Speaking

insightnews.com/aesthetics

Photos: The Napoleon Complex Project

STEP AFRIKA!

May 27 - June 1 at the Ordway Center for Performing Arts

Flint Hills International Children’s Festival The Ordway Center for the Performing Arts announced the lineup for the 14th annual Flint Hills International Children’s Festival from May 27-June 1. Minnesota’s signature arts festival for children and families—one of the largest of its kind in the nation—features local, regional and international artists representing 25 countries on seven indoor and outdoor stages. The Festival fills downtown Saint Paul’s Rice Park, Landmark Center, Landmark Plaza, Hamm Plaza, Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, and the Lehr and Lab Theaters.

More than 16,000 children from schools across Minnesota

and western Wisconsin attend international performances,

participate in hands-on activities and engage in artist workshops

“THE DIRTIEST

DAMN WESTERN COMEDY EVER.” Peter Travers

Come have lunch at the Dakota 11:30 - 2 Monday through Friday From Chef Derik Moran, find daily specials, salads, sandwiches and more, and never forget dessert by Pastry Chef Katie Elsing.

Prices starting at $8 View our complete menu at

dakotacooks.com

UNIVERSAL PICTURES AND MRC PRESENT A FUZZY DOOR PRODUCTION A BLUEGRASS FILMS PRODUCTION SETH MACFARLANE CHARLIZE THERON “A MILLION WAYS TOMUSICDIE IN THE WEST” EXECUTIVE AMANDA SEYFRIED GIOVANNI RIBISI NEIPRODUCED L PATRICK HARRIS SARAH SILVERMAN AND LIAM NEESON WRITTENBY JOEL MCNEELY PRODUCERS ALEC SULKIN WELLESLEY WILD

BY SCOTT STUBER SETH MACFARLANE JASON CLARK

BY SETH MACFARLANE & ALEC SULKIN & WELLESLEY WILD DIRECTED A UNIVERSAL RELEASE

BY SETH MACFARLANE SOUNDTRACK ON BACK LOT MUSIC

© 2014 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS AND MRC

CHECK LOCAL LISTINGS FOR AND SHOWTIMES STARTS FRIDAY, MAY 30 THEATERS

throughout the week during School Days (May 27-30).

During Family Weekend (May 31-June 1), professional artist groups whose works transcend boundaries – Step Afrika! (Ordway Music Theater), De Temps Antan (The Lab Theater), Flying Foot Forum (The Lehr Theater) and Terrapin Puppet Theatre (Weyerheuser Auditorium) will perform — for only $5 a ticket. Family Weekend also features free outdoor stages and activities in the parks including international cuisine, pop-up performances and more.

This year’s featured outdoor highlight is Cirque Mechanics’ Gantry Bike, a giant, selfcontained circus spectacular.

Designed to amaze and powered by bicycles, Cirque Mechanics’ defining mechanical gizmo is a 20-foot, baroque lattice on which aerialists, contortionists and acrobats put on awe-inspiring performances for the crowd, all while two drivers pedal the whole magnificent machine through the Festival grounds.

Throughout School Days and Family Weekend, the Clear Channel ARTwalk celebrates young artists’ creativity. In the professionally-curated exhibition, more than 600 visual art projects from Minnesota’s talented students appear in windows of downtown Saint Paul businesses.

A new Family Weekend feature adds local youth performing groups to the free performance schedule, celebrating the diversity of the region and representing cultural traditions from Vietnam, Ukraine, Puerto Rico, Laos, Ireland, Mexico, China, India – and more.

“More than 50,000 people attend the Ordway’s Flint Hills International Children’s Festival,” says Dayna Martinez, artistic director of world music, dance and international children’s festival programming at the Ordway. “Each year we think, we can’t top this. But this festival’s lineup is awesome!”

General admission tickets can be purchased ahead of time through the Ordway ticket office and online at ordway.org/ festival.

insightnews.com/aesthetics

Aesthetically Speaking • May 26 - June 1, 2014 • Page B3

Page B4 • May 26 - June 1, 2014 • Aesthetically Speaking

insightnews.com/aesthetics and Pierre Douglas, Sr. Reunion Fridays’ Tribute to Smoke-Dee and Derrick Delite Jammin’ Wings 2590 Freeway Blvd., Brooklyn Center 25-plus 10 p.m.

Admission $10-$25

Mayda

Washburn Blackbox Theatre Showcase

Derrick Delite Mixed Blood Majority

May 26 - June 1

Saturday, May 31

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

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

Monday, May 26 Shrek The Musical Children’s Theater Company 2400 3rd Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN (Runs through June) Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright David LindsayAbaire collaborates with Tony Award nominee Jeanine Tesori for this stage adaptation of “Shrek.” For more information call (612) 874-0500 or visit www. childrenstheatre.org.

Tuesday, May 27 The Poet’s Groove – Open Mic Blue Nile Restaurant

Reunion Fridays is taking a trip back in time with two popular Twin Cities radio personalities by paying tribute to Anthony “Smoke-Dee” Richie & Derrick “Delite” Stevens.

Smoke-Dee Hot Sauce Pink

Ashley Dubose 2027 E. Franklin Minneapolis (612) 338-3000 10 p.m.

Free admission

Ave.,

Billed as the longest running weekly open mic in the state of Minnesota, the Poet’s Groove is an open mic hosted by Chadwick “Niles” Phillips that features a full live band including world-renowned drummer Kevin Washington. Sign up for performers is at 10 p.m. every Tuesday at the Blue Nile and the show starts at 11 p.m.

Wednesday, May 28 Washburn Blackbox Theatre 1 Showcase Washburn High School 201 W 49th St., Minneapolis

7 p.m.

Admission: $3 Washburn’s Theatre 1 students showcase an original new play dealing with breaking down stereotypes, battling peer pressure and facing the force of technology.

Thursday, May 29 VIBE Twin Cities feat. Ashley DuBose Crooked Pint Ale House 501 Washington Ave. S., Minneapolis 7:30 p.m.

21-plus Admission: $12-$20 St. Paul based singer/songwriter Ashley DuBose continues to build off of her success as

contestant on NBC’s “The Voice” with a performance at the Crooked Pint Ale House in downtown Minneapolis.

All proceeds from the show go to support Project Footsteps’ youth empowerment programs.

Food and drinks are available.

Visit www.vibetwincities.com for more information.

Upset the Setup Honey Minneapolis 205 E. Hennepin Minneapolis

Ave.,

DJ Just Nine and Greg Grease present a monthly reggae dance party at Honey with Upset the Setup. Come down to Honey right outside of downtown in northeast Minneapolis to hear reggae, ska, dub, roots, rock steady, bass, and lovers rock.

This month’s special guest DJ is Booka B.

Friday, May 30 Laugh Out Loud 6 feat.

Brandon “Hot Sauce” Glover Ras Lounge 2516 W. 7th St., St. Paul 9 p.m.

21-plus Admission $10, VIP admission $20 Renowned funnyman from Comedy Central, Showtime and BET’s “Comic View” Brandon “Hot Sauce” Glover host a cast of regional and area comics during the monthly Laugh Out Loud comedy series. Glover, a native of St. Louis, regularly packs such iconic venues as the Laugh Factory, Funny Bone, The Improv and more. Most recently, Glover was a featured guest on the Tom Joyner Morning Show. Others on the bill include Kelly Kellz, E-Griff

Mayda “Busy Signals” Release Party The Turf Club 1601 University Ave. W., St Paul Minnesota Korean Adoptee, Mayda Miller, celebrates a brand new album inspired by her recent tour to South Korea and Europe. While performing she also found her birth parents, who influenced the new album.

“Busy Signals” is slightly different sounding from what fans are used to, blending more of an organic rough electro funk pop feel. The project features DJ Chris Neviator, Michael Bland (Prince, Soul Asylum), Ryan Leistman (The Jonas Brothers) Danish Korean producer, DJ NikoYu (AfruBeats) and more. The event is hosted by Toki Wright with performances by Mixed Blood Majority, Hiponymous, MuTaiko drummers and more.

Tickets available at w w w. f i r s t - a v e n u e . c o m / event/2014/05/mayda.

Sunday, June 1 Go outside!