Insight News ::: 06.30.14

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Insight News June 30 - July 6, 2014

Vol. 41 No. 27 • The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com

James Barnett leads Minneapolis College Prep By Harry Colbert, Jr. Contributing Writer At just 28 years of age and not too far removed from college himself, James Barnett is charged with making sure that students at Minneapolis College Preparatory School attend and graduate college themselves. Barnett took over the

two-year-old charter high school located on the first two floors at 2131 12th Ave. N. in May of last year and already in one year, student test scores are up a few points. Barnett said student success is measured on how well students do on pre ACT and SAT tests. The ACT and SAT tests are the two major tests used – along with grade point averages – to determine college admissions. But for Barnett,

COLLEGE PREP TURN TO 4 Harry Colbert, Jr.

James Barnett

Matthew Little with his Midwest contingent prior to the ‘I Have a Dream’ speech by Dr. Martin Luther King

PART III

Rattana Sengsoulichanh

Jeremiah Bey Ellison

The Gateway By Lydia Schwartz Contributing Writer The John Biggers Seed Project (Seed), a public art and design effort that engages renowned African-American artists in mentoring young artists, revealed its designs for a massive art project that seeks to transform the Olson Memorial Highway Bridge over Interstate 94.

The plans were displayed at the University of Minnesota Urban Research and OutreachEngagement Center (UROC), 2001 Plymouth Ave. N. UROC is one of the project partners. Seed plans to rebuild the walls of the bridge between East and West Lyndale Avenues over the freeway to make the area more pedestrian-friendly and to create a “new gateway” between north Minneapolis and downtown. It will feature over 300

Mpls Civil Rights Dept African American DFL Caucus supports current direction

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Bridge art connects downtown to northside

porcelain enamel panels, approximately 4x6 feet tall, created by fusing glass material onto steel, allowing for vibrant and intricate artwork. Besides its elegance and color, the artists decided to use porcelain enamel because it is exceptionally durable compared to other art media. Construction on the bridge is expected to be complete in early 2015. Thirteen local emerging artists are learning the enamel

process at the Chicago Avenue Fire Arts Center, 3749 Chicago Ave. S., under the guidance of master artists, Willis Bing Davis from Ohio, Jon Onye Lockard from Michigan and local lead artists, Tacoumba Aiken and Seitu Jones. “It’s been great to be able to collaborate with so many different artists on this,” said Jeremiah Bey Ellison,

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Fires of the 60’s vs the deity of daddy By Azaniah Little My father believed (like most men in the 1950s) that my mother’s role was in the home raising his children, and my mother raised all of us to understand that, “Your father is very important.” My Father would appear on television with politicians such as John F. Kennedy, Donald Frasier, Hubert H. Humphrey, numerous figures from the civil rights movement such as the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Andrew Young, A. Phillip Randolph and Jessie Jackson. Our mother would beckon us

to halt our activities, then line us up in front of our black and white Motorola television … telling us with a tone of endearment and reverence compared to nothing else I heard falling from her lips to, “hush, your father is about to come on.” But as a little girl all I knew was that I wanted my daddy at home, and combined with the responsibilities of the leadership role he played in the Civil Rights Movement, and the 17 hours of backbreaking work he performed daily in order to take care of his

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Lifestyle

Education

Health

Your declaration of interdependence

Empowering youth through digital involvement in North Minneapolis

BMI measurement may be missing 25 percent of children who could be considered obese

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African American DFL Caucus supports Minneapolis Civil Rights Department’s current direction and leadership By The African American Caucus of the DFL In light of the recent criticism directed at both the work and leadership of the Civil Rights Department, the African American Caucus of the DFL is expressing its support for the Minneapolis Department of Civil Rights. For quite some time Minneapolis has had some of the worst disparities in the country between African Americans and Whites with regards to poverty, education, unemployment, criminal justice (both adult and juvenile) and participation in the child welfare system. Because of this, the Caucus

supports the Equity agenda of the Civil Rights Department under the leadership of Velma Korbel. The inequity that exists in Minneapolis has been a long time in the making and we realize that the corralling of resources, building of public opinion and simple rollout of so ambitious a plan takes time and should take time if done correctly. We also support the leadership Velma Korbel has brought to the Mpls. Civil Rights Department. Her very real record of eliminating the department’s back log of unresolved complaints (which existed prior to her appointment) and ability to turnaround a department

Velma Korbel

with limited resources is commendable. In addition, the Civil Rights Department even before Korbel’s hiring, has constantly struggled with garnering the authority to make the decisions that will lead to positive outcomes. Despite this environment, Korbel has made the difficult decisions necessary to help bring a real vehicle for equity in Minneapolis. In addition, as a Caucus we are always wary of African American women unduly facing a stereotype of being overbearing and dictatorial. It has negatively and unjustly affected too many careers, and we would ask that any such accusations be handled in a fair and cautious matter, without

Seed From 1 an emerging artist building the enamel panels as well as working on the overall design. “But of course, at the same time, we’re all trying to get our individual voices through.” Seed as a community art effort tries to create a sense of place that speaks to the culture of north Minneapolis for young artists in the community. Master artists are able to provide career development skills and education about African-American art history. Obsidian Arts and Juxtaposition Arts, partners on the Olson Memorial Highway bridge project, were organizations that Seed helped to create. The art collaborative was inspired by the “Celebration of Life” mural created in 1996, an acclaimed public artwork led by John Biggers, a highly-respected and influential African-American artist. The mural was painted onto a freeway sound-wall located at Lyndale Avenue N and Olson Memorial Highway. It had used mythical symbols

Jeremiah Bey Ellison “It’s been great to be able to collaborate with so many different artists on this” to convey a tale about the beginning of life and quickly became an inspiration for African-American artists in

north Minneapolis. Shortly after Biggers’ death in 2001, despite fierce opposition from the

community, the City of Minneapolis tore the mural down in a midnight deal to make way for the Heritage

Park housing project. Aiken and Jones both worked with Biggers to create “Celebration of Life” and said its destruction

undue political influence. Korbel has been up front with many of the policies and procedures she has championed within the department. Even partnering with neighborhood groups to educate and discuss the proposals she has on the table. In this spirit we would like to offer to host a town hall in which we will invite Korbel and local leaders to discuss the real policy of the Civil Rights Department’s Equity agenda. For more information on The African American Caucus of the DFL , please visit http:// www.dfl.org/party-leaders/ constituency-caucuses/africanamerican-caucus/ or email us at: Secretary.dflaac@gmail.com.

cut deep. They soon started The John Biggers Seed Project in his honor and hope that the Olson Memorial Highway Bridge project over I-94 will commemorate the tragic loss that the community suffered and will plant a new seed that will serve to inspire young artists in north Minneapolis. They are happy to be working with master artists Bing Davis and Onye Lockard, who also worked with Biggers during his lifetime. “The storyline and design developed by the Seed artists speaks the same visual language, as spoken by Bing Davis, Jon Lockard and John Biggers,” said Jones. The project is funded partially by the City of Minneapolis Art in Public Places Program, the National Endowment for the Arts Our Town Program, the McKnight Foundation Regions and Communities Program, the Pohlad Family Foundation and the North Loop Association. The artists are encouraging donations at their IndieGoGo. com webpage (listed under The John Biggers Art Bridge Project), which will be available until July 17.

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COMMENTARY Inspiring lessons from Seattle Pacific University Child Watch

By Marian Wright Edelman On June 14th I had the honor of giving the undergraduate commencement address at Seattle Pacific University. Commencement speakers usually do their best to share a lesson or two with the graduates, but this year Seattle Pacific University students, administration, and faculty inspired me and people across the nation by how they responded after a campus tragedy that should have been unthinkable but instead has become all too routine: a shooting at their beloved school. Just days before graduation a young man with a history of mental illness entered a science and engineering building on the university’s campus armed with a shotgun and more than 50 rounds of ammunition and began firing. He killed 19-year-old freshman Paul Lee, a young man with an enormous smile whose friends said he was known for his laugh and sense of joy, and wounded two other students before 22-yearold student security monitor Jon Meis pepper-sprayed and tackled him as he paused to reload, ending the deadly rampage. The shooter’s plan had been to harm as many people as possible before taking his own life. The private Christian university’s expressed mission is

to equip students to engage the culture, change the world, and pursue scholarly excellence rooted in the gospel. How wonderful to see it in practice during such a difficult time. It brought the community closer together, united by a common sense of faith. While students expressed anger, there was also an immediate sense of forgiveness and mercy towards the shooter, with many expressing pity instead of hatred for him. Jon Meis, the courageous student who stopped the attack, has been adamant about not wishing to be considered a hero. He helped set the tone in a powerful statement released after the shooting where he said: “[W] hat I find most difficult about this situation is the devastating reality that a hero cannot come without tragedy. In the midst of this attention, we cannot ignore that a life was taken from us, ruthlessly and without justification or cause. Others were badly injured, and many more will carry this event with them the rest of their lives. Nonetheless, I would encourage that hate be met with love. When I came face to face with the attacker, God gave me the eyes to see that he was not a faceless monster, but a very sad and troubled young man. While I cannot at this time find it within me to forgive his crime, I truly desire that he will find the grace of God and the forgiveness of our community.” Other students spent the day after the shooting in prayer circles and small groups studying passages like this one: “Forgiveness is the key that unlocks the door of resentment and the handcuffs of hate. It is a power that breaks the chains of bitterness and

While students expressed anger, there was also an immediate sense of forgiveness and mercy towards the shooter, with many expressing pity instead of hatred for him. the shackles of selfishness.” Sophomore Hallie Brinkman told a reporter what that passage meant to her: “‘Everyone is shocked and angry,’ she said of the campus and the pervasive sense of violation. But at least in her circle of friends, she said, sympathy, charity, and forbearance are fighting back. Of the gunman, she said, ‘I haven’t heard anyone, so far, say anything other than, ‘I feel sorry for the guy.’’” South African Archbishop Desmond Tutu in the new The Book of Forgiving coauthored with his daughter says: “It is perfectly normal to want to hurt back when you have been hurt. But hurting back rarely satisfies. We think it will, but it doesn’t. If I slap you after you slap me, it does not lessen the sting I feel on my own face, nor does it diminish my sadness over the fact that you have struck me. Retaliation gives, at best, only momentary respite from our pain. The only way to experience healing and peace is to forgive. Until we can forgive, we remain locked in our pain and

locked out of the possibility of experiencing healing and freedom, locked out of the possibility of being at peace.” The genuine sense of forgiveness and grace at Seattle Pacific University is remarkable. The school’s students, faculty, and administration truly struggle to live their faith. I was deeply moved that my mother’s favorite hymn, “Great is Thy Faithfulness,” opened the graduation ceremony, walling off despair though not sadness during this difficult time. Even in the middle of tragedy and loss there was also a profound sense of gratitude that the attack was able to be stopped before more life was lost. What if the shooter had had an assault weapon? The student security monitor was able to subdue the shooter because he had to stop to reload his shotgun. If he had been armed with a semiautomatic rifle and a large capacity magazine capable of firing more than a few rounds without reloading, the tragedy would almost certainly have grown—as

we have seen over and over again in similar attacks. Instead a young man with a brave heart armed only with pepper spray was able to seize available seconds to act with the help of other unarmed bystanders and bring a tragedy to a quick end. At the same time we must all ask: could this have been prevented from happening at all? The shooter, who reportedly had an obsession with the shootings at Columbine High School and a long history of mental illness, was detained and committed to mental health facilities twice before the attack at Seattle Pacific University. In 2010 he called 911 to report he “had a rage inside him” and wanted to hurt himself and others, and in 2012 police found him lying intoxicated in a roadway, where he told officers he wanted a SWAT team “to get him and make him famous.” Both times he was taken to a hospital for evaluation. His history of involuntary commitments to mental health facilities should have barred him from possessing a gun. Washington State does require reporting of mental health records to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System, according to the Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence, but does not have a universal background check law in place. At least one source says the shooter, who also reportedly worked for eight years at a gun range, used that loophole and purchased his gun legally through a private seller. And another critically important concern continues to go unaddressed—the need to ensure timely and appropriate mental health treatment, in the community

whenever possible, for children of all ages and for young adults. While steps have been taken in Connecticut and a few other states since the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre, so much more is needed. According to Everytown for Gun Safety, the attack at Seattle Pacific University was the 73rd shooting on a school or college campus in the United States since the tragedy at Sandy Hook. I am so grateful to the Seattle Pacific University community for their witness of strength, forgiveness, and deep faith. Yet I am heartbroken that they and so many other children, youths, and adults walk in fear on a daily basis and keep having to worry about experiencing this at all. Why is our nation saturated with guns— four million in military and law enforcement hands and 310 million in civilian hands? Why are American children and teens 17 times more likely to die from gun violence than their peers in 25 other high-income countries combined? Why is our mental health system still so inadequate to respond to the cries of those needing help? When will we all say enough? We can and must do better. Marian Wright Edelman is President of the Children’s Defense Fund whose Leave No Child Behind® mission is to ensure every child a Healthy Start, a Head Start, a Fair Start, a Safe Start and a Moral Start in life and successful passage to adulthood with the help of caring families and communities. For more information go to www. childrensdefense.org.

Anti-effeminacy in the Black community By Jeremy Bamidele Words such as sissy and other disparaging descriptive adjectives can often be heard in the Black community to describe a man who falls outside the comparatively restrictive confounds of Black male masculinity. However, why Black men in particular focus on masculinity more than their other racial counterparts is often misunderstood. Two theories seek to explain the culture of anti-effeminacy in the Black community. Sexism is something that pervades our country and society. With the average

Jeremy Bamidele woman making about four to seven percent less than her male counterparts when accounting for differences in total hours worked, job position and total unpaid hours leave taken during

the year, according to the U.S. Labor Department. In other words, the average woman would have to work 7.5 percent more or 168 hours more to earn as much as man. However, sexism can not only be seen in the marketplace when looking at men in relation to women but in relation to masculine vs. “less masculine” men. Studies show that men with traits that are perceived to be more masculine are more likely than those possessing feminine traits to receive higher starting salaries and receive promotions at a much higher rate than feminine men. Furthermore, a study comparing the salary of male to female transsexuals pre and post transition, shows income

falling by approximately one third following transition. In addition, a study by Lee Badgett concluded that gay men earn 11 to 27 percent less than straight men. These studies while focusing on disparate communities, share a common story – as masculine traits decrease, so do incomes. Consequently, it is arguable that Black men, by promoting restrictive and traditional views of masculinity, are trying to serve the best interest of the community by keeping Black male income higher than it would be with a more effeminate male population. This hypothesis is made further credible since Black men earn less than their white male counterparts for the same jobs and positions,

giving them further incentive to hoard their wealth. While some hypothesize that intragender privilege in the Black community results from the desire to attain higher incomes, others point to a historical anthropological perspective. Many scholars argue that anti-effeminate views in the Black male community are rooted in homophobia derived from a historical context wherein Black men were repeatedly raped when kept in captivity. This captivity exists not only in the past, but also in the present, with many Black men being incarcerated and raped in jails. These individual experiences were, and are, so pervasive as to become shared cultural memories. According

to this theory, Black men are not naturally anti-effeminacy but instead adopt this trait as a selfprotection mechanism against dangers that have that have existed and continue to exist. In conclusion the narrative of Black anti-effeminacy is not one produced within the Black community, but instead one shaped by the collective Black experience. The hatred aimed at its own members seeks to insure the protection and wellbeing of the community as a whole. Jeremy Bamidele is a former faculty member at Rancho Santiago Community College in California and currently lives in Philadelphia where he is completing graduate school at the University of Pennsylvania.

Freedom Summer: 50 years later By George E. Curry NNPA Columnist The 50th anniversary of Freedom Summer is being commemorated this week in Mississippi and it provides the perfect backdrop to reflect on the transformation of not only Mississippi, then the deadliest state in the nation, but the entire region. As I have written in the space before, there was a popular joke about Mississippi making the rounds during the height of the Civil Rights Movement. Supposedly, a Chicago seminary student was awakened at 3 a.m. by a voice imploring him: “Go to Mississippi! Go to Mississippi!! Go to Mississippi!!!” The seminary student said, “Lord, you said that you will be with me always, even until the end of the earth. If I go to Mississippi, will you go with me?” The heavenly voice replied, “I’ll go as far as Memphis.” Of course, if the Lord was reluctant to go to Mississippi, the chances of a Black surviving there were slim and none. I had just completed my junior year at Druid High School in Tuscaloosa, Ala. in the summer of 1964. Alabama had its own violent history when it came to race relations, but Mississippi was the one state we knew was worse. In fact, whenever a national ranking of any kind came out, we would always say, “Thank God for Mississippi.” Of course, we all awaited the beginning of Freedom Summer, a national mobilization

George Curry of mostly college students who would descend upon Mississippi in 1964 to help civil rights activists, led by Bob Moses of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), assist Blacks in voter education and voting. More than 1,000 students, about 90 percent of them White, participated. With so many northern Whites descending on the state, the nation would be watching. And Blacks like me, who grew up under America’s version of apartheid, knew that virulent White racists in Mississippi would not go quietly into the dark. They would go into the dark – where they did their most tawdry work – but they wouldn’t be quiet about it. And sure enough, at the outset of Freedom Summer, three civil rights workers – James Chaney, Michael Schwerner and Andrew Goodman – were arrested in Nashoba County by Sheriff

Cecil Price, a member of the Ku Klux Klan. That night, they were released. Tipped off about their impending departure, Klansmen abducted the three and murdered them. Their bodies were discovered seven weeks later 15 feet below an earthen dam. While looking for the three civil rights workers in rivers and swamps, other Black bodies were discovered. One was Herbert Oarsby, a 14-year-old boy who was wearing a Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) T-shirt. The bodies of Henry Hezekiah Dee and Eddie Moore, who had been expelled from Alcorn A&M College for civil rights activities, were also discovered. The remains of five more Black men were found, but never identified. It wasn’t until 1970 that anyone was imprisoned for the slayings of Chaney, Schwerner and Goodman, with six years being the longest time served. In 1964, only 6.7 percent of Blacks were registered to vote, the lowest in the nation. Today, more than a third of Mississippi’s voters are Black and the state has the largest number of Black elected officials in the nation. But that progress came with a price, with people losing their jobs –and even their lives – simply because they wanted to exercise their constitutional right to vote. The casualties extended beyond the three civil rights workers. According to the book, Freedom Summer by Doug McAdam, in the summer of 1964 alone: At least four Blacks from

Mississippi were murdered because of their civil rights activities; • Four people were seriously wounded; • 80 summer workers were beaten • 1,062 people were arrested’ • 37 churches were burned or bombed and

• The homes or businesses of 30 African Americans were bombed or burned. Visiting college students weren’t the only ones responsible for the success of that summer. When Berea College withdrew as a training site for students headed South, Western College for Women in Oxford, Ohio, now

part of Miami University, stepped forward. Attorneys volunteered from the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, the National Lawyers

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Minneapolis officer Abdulkadir meets families living at 2909 Bloomington Ave. S Recently 50 residents living at 2909 Bloomington Ave. S. met with Minneapolis Police Officer Mukhtar Abdulkadir to find solutions to crime and safety problems that have been plaguing their neighborhood and their building. The people living at 2909 Bloomington Ave. S. are predominantly Somali, and many residents speak limited English. In the past the language barrier has often meant that some residents have not contacted the police to report crime problems, and when they do they often feel the police do not understand them and are slow to respond adequately. Meeting with Abdulkadir, who is Somali, was the first time many of the residents have talked in their native language about their crime and safety problems with a police officer. They explained in detail to Abdulkadir what was happening in their neighborhood and in their building. Their biggest complaints were about intruders who on a daily basis get into their building and sleep in the front lobby and stairwells overnight, sneak into the underground garage and break into cars, sell drugs in the building, urinate in the hallway and kick in windows in the middle of the night. Residents also said that prostitutes regularly walk the sidewalk

Curry From 3 Guild and the ACLU. Medical professionals, participating as individuals as well as members

College Prep From 1 he said his greatest success at Minneapolis College Prep (www.minneapoliscollegeprep. org) is not measured in test scores, it is measured in lives transformed. “What we care about is the students growing and gaining knowledge on a daily basis,” said Barnett. “We’re doing this with any kid that walks through the door. We’re a school where our kids wear uniforms and their sole focus is on going to college. There aren’t the social pressures here that are at other

Somali police officer Mukhtar Abdulkadir meet with residents of a predominantly Somali apartment building in the Phillips neighborhood. outside their building, and even get into the building and ply their trade downstairs and in the stairways. Families also talked about concerns they had for the safety of their children. Scores of children live at 2909 Bloomington Ave. S., and everyday dozens play in the

open space out back. Their play often spills out into the alley. Parents said that many drivers speed through the alleys at excessive speeds, and the residents suggested that their children would be safer with a fence separating the play area from the alley traffic. After hearing the lengthy

and passionate descriptions of the intrusions and problems, Abdulkadir said that the problem with the intruders was so big that he thought security inside the building was necessary. He also said that working security cameras were a must. Abdulkadir also said he was ready to continue working with

the residents to successfully deal with their crime problems. Abdulkadir told the families about how he became a Minneapolis police officer, and encouraged the youth to consider a career in law enforcement While frustrated by the crime problems in their neighborhood and building, many said they

felt heartened after their meeting with Abdulkadir, and appreciated having a police officer they knew who could speak their own language. The building residents also hope to meet with councilmember Alondra Cano to voice their concerns.

of the Medical Committee for Human Rights, also joined the caravans headed to Mississippi. The level of national support emboldened Black Mississippians, such as Fannie Lou Hamer, to challenge the seating of the all-White

Mississippi delegation to the 1964 Democratic National Convention in Atlantic City. As Attorney Thomas N. Todd likes to remind us, this was done before the existence of Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and other social media.

It’s good that civil rights vets are celebrating Freedom Summer this week. But the challenge today is to reignite that passion and sense of commitment. Many of the problems of 1964 are still prevalent today. We need another Freedom Summer, Winter, Fall

and Spring.

moderator, and media coach. Curry can be reached through his Web site, www.georgecurry. com. You can also follow him at www.twitter.com/currygeorge and George E. Curry Fan Page on Facebook.

schools. At Minneapolis College Prep all the social pressure is being geared towards academic success.” In a relatively short career as an educator Barnett has worked wonders in helping students achieve academic success. Following his graduation from St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minn., Barnett joined Teach For America, a national organization that recruits teachers to work a minimum of two years in lower economic, under-performing schools. During his time at Teach For America Barnett was nominated for the 2010 Sue Lehmann Excellence in Teaching Award and as a first year 8th grade science teacher

at KIPP Academy Charlotte (North Carolina), Barnett led 93 percent of his students to pass the state’s standardized test for science. This was impressive considering science was not in Barnett’s formal background. “I uncovered a great injustice by how little kids knew about science, so in my third year with Teach For America I decided I to teach science,” said Barnett. “If you think about growth and advancement we have to expose our kids to science – expose them to genuine creation where they see their futures form out of those experiences.” The second year principal said he is working to expose the students at Minneapolis College

Prep to as many careers and disciplines as possible. “You don’t know what you want to be until you see it, so the goal of the school is to expose our students to a bit of everything in terms of opportunities,” said Barnett, who said students are regularly visited by area professionals to discuss careers. “We expose them to everything from arts and music to careers in science.” Of course, Barnett is facing some unique challenges at Minneapolis College Prep – challenges he said he’s overcoming daily. “Charter schools at the high school level have generally been seen as alternative schools

for at risk or under-performing students, so there are parents who are apprehensive about putting their trust in a 28-yearold guy who says, ‘I’m going to get your child ready for college,’ because they’ve heard these promises before and have been let down,” said Barnett. “But we have a student population that is 98 … 99 percent minority – 95 percent on free or reduced lunch – yet 20 percent are performing above proficiency and collectively they grew two points further on college preparedness.” The principal said he is also proud to say his school has very low incidence of discipline. “We didn’t have one fight

George E. Curry, former editorin-chief of Emerge magazine, is editor-in-chief of the National Newspaper Publishers Association News Service (NNPA.) He is a keynote speaker,

last year,” said Barnett, who said he prides himself on how he communicates with his students. “I don’t yell at the kids because if I start yelling that means I have given up on trying to understand them.” Barnett said though students are off for the summer he is working on boosting enrollment for the coming school year. He said his goal is to mature to annual graduating classes of 120. “We have an open door policy. All we ask is that students come in and have an ultimate goal of being able to go to college,” said Barnett.

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LIFESTYLE Your declaration of interdependence Man Talk

By Timothy Houston As we move closer to celebrating this year’s Declaration of Independence and enjoying family and friends on the 4th of July, you should also take some time and reflect on your own declaration of interdependence. We are all born into this world with a dependency on others. As new born babes, we need someone to feed and nurture us. Without this care, we could only live for a few days at most. Moving from dependence to interdependence takes time, growth, and development. As we move through the maturity continuum, we all progress through several stages. The three major stages of maturity are dependence, independence, and interdependence, with the highest stage being interdependence. The first stage on the maturity continuum is dependency. Dependence is the state of being influenced, determined by, or subject to another. One of the

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characteristics of a dependent person is that they will use the “you” statement. “You did not get it for me” or “It’s your fault that I am this way”. Dependency is the lowest level of maturity and requires others to provide physical, mental, emotional, and financial support. Each of these dimensions reaches maturity at different points so a person that is physically independent may still be financially dependent on

someone else. When growth and development is done properly, the individual will move from dependence to independence in all dimensions of their life. The second stage on the maturity continuum is independency. Independence means to be self-governed. You are no longer dependent or subject to the control of others. Unfortunately, some people never make this transition. They

remain physically, emotionally, or financially dependent on others. The person that is independent will use the “I” statements. “I have may own car,” or “I can pay my own way,” or “I take responsibility for myself.” Moving from dependence to independence is a major milestone in life. It defines the transition into complete adulthood where the person is emotionally and financially

responsible for self and has developed mentally where they can carry their own weight. This stage must be completed. Only an independent person can move to interdependence. The final stage on the maturity continuum is interdependency. Interdependence is a reciprocal relationship that involves two or more people. It requires the greatest amount of maturity because getting along with others

is more demanding than getting along with self. Interdependence can only be achieved between two independent people. If one person is dependent, the other will only serve as an enabler. The person that is interdependent uses the “we” statement. “We can do it,” or “we will work it out together.” This is necessary to build families and communities. Two people working collectively will always achieve more than they ever could on their own. Make your declaration of interdependence. Getting to interdependence is a necessary part of human development. No one can ever accomplish true greatness working alone. Each one of us must move on the maturity continuum from you, to I, to we. Each of us must move from dependence, to independence, to interdependence. As you mature in these stages, you mature in life and achieve the greatness you deserve. Timothy Houston is an author, minister, and motivational speaker who is committed to guiding positive life changes in families and communities. To get copies of his book, schedule a speaking engagement, or for questions, comments or more information, go to www. tlhouston.com.

Success is not measured by material things Motivational Moments

By Penny JonesRichardson What is the true measure of success? Is it the money that a person makes? Is it the size of a person’s home? Maybe it’s the

type of car that they drive? The truth is success is not measured by any of these things. Success is how you feel about yourself. It is also about the goals you set and achieve. Any time you work hard at achieving goals and every time those goals are met, then you are a success. Many people do measure success by the things that a person has, but having everything you want has nothing to do with success. What about the person who

goes back to high school and gets a high school diploma? Aren’t they a success? I would say so. What about the person who buys that home that they have been saving for? Doesn’t that have success written all over it? I would say that anyone who sets goals and achieves them is the definition of a successful person. Setting goals is hard sometimes because it shows that there is something that you want to change about your

life. And change can be hard for some. If a person has the mindset that they are already successful, then how often will they set goals? I have a friend that worked as a waitress for years. She always talked about going back to school to get her high school diploma, but she needed to work to take care of her kids. She didn’t leave that job until her youngest child graduated from high school. I always wondered why she didn’t go after her goals

earlier and become the success that she always talked about. She simply said, “I didn’t graduate from high school, and neither did my mother or father. But I was going to make sure I did everything in my power to ensure that my children did.” You see working this job allowed her to be home every evening to help with homework, make it to all afterschool events, and was head of her children’s school PTA. Talk about success! Again I say, success is

not measured by what you have, it is measured by what’s in your heart and what makes you a better person. 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.

FOOD

Men: Don’t just grill, learn your way around the kitchen too • 2 1/2 pounds small lamb rib chops, cut 1/2 inch thick • Coarse salt (kosher or sea) and cracked or freshly ground black peppercorns • 1 tablespoon hot red pepper flakes, or to taste • 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced • 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh rosemary • 1 to 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, depending on the

cooking method

minutes.

• Lemon wedges, for serving

• Heat one tablespoon extra virgin olive oil in a large castiron skillet or on a plancha over high heat until shimmering. Add the lamb chops in a single layer (work in batches as needed) and cook until well-browned on the bottom, about three minutes. Turn and cook until well-

Directions • Arrange the lamb chops in a single layer on a baking sheet. Generously season one side with salt and pepper and half of the hot pepper flakes, minced garlic, and rosemary. Drizzle two tablespoons of olive oil over the chops and pat the ingredients onto the meat with your fingertips. Turn and repeat on the second side. Marinate in the refrigerator for about 20

Lucy Schaeffer Photography

Finger Burner Lamb Chops (StatePoint) All too often, men stay out of the kitchen, relegating their food preparation to the outdoors. But even master grillers know that eating well means being versed in more than just barbecue. “Men cook for pleasure and showmanship -- not just for practicality -- which explains why they are so attracted to the grill, but indoors there are plenty of occasions to play with knives, fire and flavor,” says bestselling cookbook author and award winning food writer, Steven Raichlen. Raichlen’s new book “Man Made Meals: The Essential Coobook for Guys,” teaches men to navigate the kitchen with confidence, style and tenacity. He operates under the principle that whether you’re frying an

egg, building a quesadilla, or putting together a four-course meal, using quality ingredients and proper techniques can make or break a meal. And with just a bit of knowledge, men can stop relying on takeout or someone else for homemade cooking. Whether single or married, in college or retired, on a budget or on the board of directors, learning the way around a kitchen can help you eat well and you can even show off while doing it! Give this flavorful recipe -- that you can eat with your hands -- a try! Finger Burner Lamb Chops: Ingredients

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

browned and the meat is cooked through or to taste, about three minutes for medium. • Place the chops on a platter and encourage everyone to pick them up and eat the meat straight from the bone. Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing and plenty of napkins.

Page 6 • June 30 - July 6, 2014 • Insight News

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EDUCATION Empowering youth through digital involvement in North Minneapolis

Dr. Lanise Block talking to a scholar

By Ge Gao, TC Daily Planet Dr. Lanise Block believes that digital applications and digital instructions are powerful tools to engage students to learn. As the founder of Digital Empowerment Academy and an educator for 18 years, Block works with students, especially in North Minneapolis, to share digital tools and learning. The Second Annual Digital Empowerment Youth Conference showcased that engagement on June 7 at the University of Minnesota Urban Research and OutreachEngagement Center (UROC) center in North Minneapolis. Specialists (instructors who mentor at DEA), scholars (students who are enrolled at DEA), and family members came and celebrated another year’s achievement for students from various North Minneapolis high schools. During the breakout sessions, over 15 students presented their research on diverse social issues, such as homelessness, human trafficking, worldwide sweat

shops, bullying at school, teen suicides, gender stereotypes and so on. All presentations were shown from iPad apps, such as iMovie, Prezi, Flowboard, Haiku Deck, and so on. In this program, all students could use a free iPad for research and they learned to transfer words, charts, photos and videos to different apps for a presentation. “When I started learning [about the] digital divide, as related to the achievement gap, I felt the need to have this program, particularly in north Minneapolis,” said Dr. Block. “Statistics spell out that north Minneapolis has the most nonusers of software and hardware. ... I love working with teenagers. So I founded this program, specifically to teach youth about digital advocacy and empowerment, particularly in north Minneapolis.” Dr. Block got funded partly from Minneapolis Public Schools Equity Diversity department, Best Buy, UROC, and Code Savvy. Since 2013, she has worked with local high schools and recruited teenagers, mainly from the 13-17 year-old age group. Three-hour meetings

“Graduation day” for second-year scholars at the YMCA on Broadway Avenue every Saturday teach them how to do research online and how to navigate apps and use them for presentations. “We want to expand our program to younger kids and our scholars (current students) could be their mentors,” Dr. Block said. We also want to have programs for communities and families. It’s all the matters of finding space and time,.” Brian Lowenski, a PhD Candidate from University of Minnesota, spoke about Maya Angelou, and quoted her saying, “There is no greater agony than bearing the untold story inside you.” He complimented the young scholars’ presentations as a great way to showcase awareness of social issues and using digital media as a powerful tool to do that. Lowenski said that this program helps youth become media producers instead of simply being media consumers nowadays.

Scholars doing presentations

African American parents want school board to ‘double down’ their efforts By Sheila Regan, TC Daily Planet Members of the Parents of African American Students Advisory Council (PAASAC) met in Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS) district headquarters Thursday, June 12, for a listening session with three school board members about issues they hoped to address with the board. Attended by about 18 people, including board members Keith Hardy, Mary Doran and John Broderick, as well as Chief Executive Officer Michelle Walker, the listening session focused on a need for more African Americanfocused curriculum, more African American and teachers of color, and stronger steps toward ending the achievement gap. The listening session included a number of questions that were presented to the three school board members. The first was a question about mandatory inclusion of African American history into classrooms in Saint Paul Schools, and there was some discussion about whether that meant offering elective programs, or schools that have a specific African American focus (in the same vein as schools that currently have a Hmong focus, for example). For the most part, the parents said they wanted to see more natural tie-ins into the regular curriculum, not just for high school

students, but for elementary as well. “Our kid need to see why we are such great contributors,” said one woman, who is taking her children out of the district next year. Michelle Walker, Chief Executive Officer of SPPS, said the district does have goals to make African American history not “relegated to the month of February,” and that there are plans to incorporate more African American-specific curriculum into classes, especially social studies classes. In addition, “we need to have elective classes,” she said, noting that Obama Elementary is moving toward an African American focus throughout the whole school. Another issue that was brought forward by parents was the lack of teachers of color in the district. The board was asked what they would do to work with colleges and universities, for instance, to increase the diversity of the teaching pool. They discussed “Urban Ed” teaching programs available at some colleges, but noted that those programs still produce primarily white teachers. “To call it an Urban Ed program means zero if all the students are white,” said one man attending the meeting. “How are you working with educators to move the needle differently?” “We need more teachers of color,” School board member

Mary Doran agreed. “I would like suggestions about how to do that.” School Board member Keith Hardy said he could commit to having conversations with his friends at Hamline, MCTC and St. Paul College, as well as to Superintendent Silva about ways to address the problem. One parent, Elaine Gillespie, said she thought even for teachers who aren’t African American, they still need to have an understanding of African American culture. “If you don’t have knowledge about our culture, that’s a problem,” she said. Toward the end of the meeting, the parents expressed frustration at the lack of progress that has been made toward supporting African American students and students of color. “Our kids — they are learning,” said one grandfather. “They are being taught to become prisoners in the penal system. They are being taught not to achieve.” Among the suggestions that could be used to “double down” on the achievement gap, longer school days, longer school years, and moving the best teachers to the schools that were struggling were discussed, but Chief Academic Officer Michelle Walker said that the district, while doing everything they could, were limited by their contracts with teachers to making such changes.

Saint Paul Public Schools to provide free summer meals at more than 70 locations Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS) will provide free meals this summer to children 18 years old and younger, and people 19 years of age and older who have a mental or physical disability and who participate during the school year in a public or private non-profit school program for the mentally or physically disabled. The Summer Food Service Program began June 11, 2014 at some sites and ends August 22, 2014. Meals will be available at more than 70 locations throughout the city, including community sites, park and recreation centers and schools. Meals may include breakfast, lunch, supper or a snack, depending on the site’s hours of operation. For a list of participating sites and meal service times

please visit www.2harvest. org/summerfood. Families and children can also call United Way’s 2-1-1 information line (also at 651-291-0211) or text their location to 612-516FOOD to find meals nearby. Call 866-3-HUNGRY or 877-8-HAMBRE (for Spanish speakers) to find a free, nutritious summer meal site near you. The Summer Food Service Program is a federal program that helps ensure that children in low-income areas continue to receive nutritious meals during school vacations. Saint Paul Public Schools has been a local sponsor for more than 25 years, providing over 375,000 meals to students each summer. Meals will be provided in accordance with federal law and USDA policy. The U.S. Department of

Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD). For more information about summer meals in St. Paul, call the Saint Paul Public Schools Nutrition Services Department at 651-603-4950. For more information about the Summer Food Service Program, visit www.fns.usda.gov.

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Insight News • June 30 - July 6, 2014 • Page 7

BUSINESS Car review: 2014 Toyota 4Runner By Frank S. Washington NNPA Columnist DETROIT – The 2014 Toyota 4Runner is a throwback, one of the few true sport utilities on the market. That, is it has body on frame construction. The sport-utility has been revamped with a more rugged exterior and a more refined interior. There are three trim levels: the SR5, the Limited and the Trail grade. We test drove the Trail grade. It had a redesigned front fascia that was bulkier,

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 Assistant to the Publisher Shumira Cunningham 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 Production Intern Sunny Thongthi Distribution/Facilities Manager Jamal Mohamed Receptionist Lue B. Lampley Contributing Writers Harry Colbert, Jr. Julie Desmond Fred Easter Abeni Hill Timothy Houston Penny Jones-Richardson Toki Wright Alaina L. Lewis Darren Moore Photography Michele Spaise David Bradley 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.

2014 Toyota 4Runner which conveyed a rugged physique. The grille was more muscular, and it had inlays that extended the headlights to the bumpers. There was also the hood scoop that imbued the Toyota 4Runner with a sense of power. Under that scoop was a 4.0-liter V6 that made 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. It was mated to a five-speed automatic transmission with a transfer case. It had dual independent variable valve timing that optimized torque across the engine’s operating range. The Toyota 4Runner had decent fuel economy. It had an EPA rating of 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway in 4X2 mode. In 4X4 mode, it got

17 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. Its maximum towing capacity was 5,000 pounds and like all 4Runners it featured an integrated tow-hitch and wiring harness. This engine provided plenty of power. Although the Toyota 4Runner did have that low-engine whine of a pickup truck at very low speeds, there was enough oomph for it to be maneuverable on expressways. One thing was lacking though, a lane change indicator. What’s more, the midsize SUV didn’t have blindside-alert, either. That might be part of an option package that the test vehicle didn’t have. Still, when driving utility vehicles, it helps to be able to alert other drivers easily

that you’re changing lanes and for you to know when another vehicle is in your blind spot. The interior of the 4Runner was upgraded, too. Door trim was soft touch with faint French stitching that you’ve really got to be an expert to tell if it is faux or real. The steering wheel was leather wrapped as was the gear selector knob. The instrument panel housed the speedometer, tachometer, voltage, fuel and coolant temperature gauges, plus a multiinformation display. The instruments’ background was black and the numerals were white with a blue background. It was a really clean look. Toyota has moved towards an interior

horizontal layout in the 4Runner. The centerstack was not really a stack; it was wide but not too vertical. And by moving the 4Runner Trail’s off road control switches to an overhead console, designers again created a clutter free appearance on the dash. The Trail trim 4Runner had two rows as of seats, the third row was folded. With just two rows of seats, there was an expansive storage area behind the second row. The SUV also came with a full-size spare that, fortunately, we didn’t have to use. There wasn’t much optional equipment on our Toyota Trail Premium 4X4, probably because with what came in this package not much more was

needed. Options included a dynamic suspension system and rigid running boards. Standard equipment included a backup camera, a moonroof, Bluetooth, satellite radio, a navigation system, heated sideview mirrors, a power sliding liftgate window, heated front seats and Toyota’s Entune app information system. With a base price of $38,645, several options and freight cost, as tested the total was $41,825. That’s a lot of capability for a reasonable price tag. Frank S. Washington is editor of AboutThatCar. com<http://www. aboutthatcar.com/>

Accountability and trust: Keys to partnership BHPMSS at http://bhpmss. org/ Copyright 2014 – Mel and Pearl Shaw Mel and Pearl Shaw position nonprofits, colleges

FUNdraising Good Times

By Mel and Pearl Shaw Part two of a three-part series on private/public partnerships Are you considering a private/public partnership to advance the work of your nonprofit? Learn from those who have already waded into the waters. Cathy Davis, executive director of Bayview Hunters Point Multipurpose Senior Services , Inc. (BHPMSS) in San Francisco, CA is a leader with experience. We wanted to know, based on her experience, what a nonprofit must have in place in order for a partnership to work. “You have to have your house in order to work with other partners,” Davis began. “For an African American agency the stakes are higher, and the bar is raised higher because of the general lack of trust given to African American based agencies. You have to work harder with less, and maintain your integrity at all times. That is just the way it is and surrendering to it allows you to be prepared in the ways you need to be.” “The public sector requires a great deal of accountability and as non-profit we had to prove our capacity to provide services and then be able to

Rendering: Cathy Davis facilitated a $58 million nonprofit/ private/public partnership to build senior housing in San Francisco’s African American Bayview Hunters Point community. step into the partnership,” she shared. “You don’t have to be perfect, but you have to be willing to change and be more accountable. Each partner has to recognize their strengths and weaknesses and be willing to rely on the partner with the best expertise. At some point you have to trust each other’s expertise.” We asked her about the challenges a nonprofit may encounter in creating a partnership. “There are many challenges for a non-profit to be in a good negotiating position with public and private partners,” she began. “The board has to understand the process and be willing to risk the agency’s credibility and finances along the way. Ultimately there are no guarantees: taking on large projects requires a leap of faith. Be ready to be called a ‘sellout’ or ‘greedy’ by others who are not willing to partner with for- profits or the City. You will be tested and asked to support the efforts of the City: this goes with the

territory if you want funding from them. You will be told you are ‘too small,’ you have no experience doing this, or you are ‘over your head’ often in subtle ways.” Yet there are also benefits. “We needed each other to make the project happen. As a local non-profit we know what the community needs and were able to garner political support. The developer had the financial clout and expertise to build it. The City had access to funding, understood the process of working with other city departments, and was able to sell the project to city officials,” Davis recounted. “We were able to access $58 million for our project through City, State and low income housing tax credits. Our agency had no history in housing development and we were able to create the partnerships to make this happen for the community.” Next week: Compromise, relationships and faith Learn more about

and universities for fundraising success. For help with your campaign visit www.saadandshaw.com or call (901) 522-8727.

Page 8 • June 30 - July 6, 2014 • Insight News

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HEALTH Mayo Clinic: BMI measurement may be missing 25 percent of children who could be considered obese ROCHESTER, Minn. — Physicians using body mass index (BMI) to diagnose children as obese may be missing 25 percent of kids who have excess body fat despite a normal BMI, which can be a serious concern for long-term health, according to a Mayo Clinic study published online today in Pediatric Obesity. The researchers found that BMI has high specificity in identifying pediatric obesity, meaning BMI accurately identifies children who are obese, but has a moderate sensitivity, meaning the BMI tool misses children who actually should be considered obese, according to the percent of fat in their bodies. “If we are using BMI to find out which children are obese, it works if the BMI is high, but what about the children who have a normal BMI but do have excess fat? Those parents may get a false sense of reassurance that they do not need to focus on a better weight for their children,” says Francisco Lopez-Jimenez, M.D., senior study author and director of preventive cardiology at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. In the meta-analysis, the researchers used 37 eligible studies that evaluated 53,521 patients, ages 4 through 18. It is the first systematic review and metaanalysis to assess the diagnostic performance of BMI to identify excess body fat as compared with techniques considered reference standard to measure obesity. These other techniques include skin-fold thickness measurement and dualenergy X-ray absorptiometry, which can be used to measure body composition and fat content. It is known that childhood

Asma Javed, M.D. obesity can lead to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, says Asma Javed, M.D., the study’s first author and a pediatric endocrinology fellow at Mayo Clinic Children’s Center. “Our research raises the concern that we very well may be missing a large group of children who potentially could be at risk for these diseases as they get older,” Dr. Javed says. “We hope our results shine a light on this issue for physicians, parents, public health officials and policymakers.” While not part of this study, its results mirror what has been found in Dr. Lopez-Jimenez’s research of adults. Over several years of research, he and investigators discovered what they call normal weight obesity (NWO), wherein adults have a normal BMI but a large percentage of body fat. NWO shares some of the risks of obesity, which can lead to pre-

Mayo Clinic

diabetes, metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular death. “The lesson is that we need additional research in children to determine the potential impact of having high fat in the setting of normal BMI to recognize this issue and perhaps justify the use of body composition techniques to detect obesity at an early stage,” he says. Other authors of the Pediatric Obesity study are: Marwan Jumean, M.D., Tufts Medical Center, Boston; Dale Okorodudu, M.D., Duke University Medical Center, Durham, N.C.; Ondrej Sochor, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn., and St. Anne’s University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic; and M. Hassan Murad, M.D., Seema Kumar, M.D., and Virend Somers, M.D., Ph.D., all of Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. About Mayo Clinic Recognizing 150 years of serving humanity in 2014, Mayo Clinic

is a nonprofit worldwide leader in medical care, research and education for people from

all walks of life. For more information, visit 150years. mayoclinic.org, MayoClinic.org

or http://newsnetwork.mayoclinic. org/.

Malcolm X

Doris Moss-Robinson, Azaniah Little (at 14) and Alice Chatham

Little From 1 family, he barely had this luxury. However, privately, my adoration for him – even as a little colored girl – always suffered a severe disconnect with his civil and political work because I silently watched his own Robins Island experiences

Stokley Carmicheal and the Black Panthers and I wondered what I could do to help him, but it seemed as though the more I tried, the more yet another unseen fire would erupt … often within me as well. Its flames lapped at the

values projected on my favorite show “Leave it to Beaver.” Discontent was everywhere and June Cleaver was now despised and deemed an idiot for staying in the house taking care of Ward, Wally, and ‘The Beave.” The light of the fires were cast upon contorted faces of everyone and everything that moved and radicalism became the order of the day. Teenagers “dropped out” becoming hippies, college professors openly took LSD, draftees proclaimed, “Hell no … we won’t go,” referring to the Vietnam War, and openly burned draft cards and American flags. Seniors formed the Gray Panthers, Blacks – the Black Panthers, the Native-Americans formed the American Indian Movement, women, the Women’s Liberation Movement, nature lovers – the (radical) Environmentalists Movement … cat and dog lovers, the Animal Rights Movement. Prisoners, students – even nuns demanded their rights, but not the way of my father. Everyone wanted their rights “right now” and by any means necessary. For me, the fires only complicated the tribulations and insecurities associated with puberty especially in the area of body image. Locked deep within my psyche were imprisoned incessant images from a dominant white society, which told me along with all

the other little Negro girls of that time that in a nutshell, “white women are beautiful ... And you are … well … just niggers.” My father offered the redemptive power that only a father can offer his little girl. Despite working a 17-hour day, he would enter the house, drop his lunch box and thermos, retrieve that twinkle in his eye when he saw me, and call me his “angel.” To be called angel in a world that was on fire, and being trapped in a body at war with itself, and that the world saw as a nigger was beyond medicinal – it was sacred. It was not the fact that my father (as my mother would say) was important, it was the

Azaniah Little (at 21) in New York while working in the revolution. fact that despite the fact that in the public arena there was tearing away of the psyche of America, he – in very simple ways – made me feel important … important and beautiful in a time when Black people were not allowed to think of themselves as beautiful. We were steeped in the venom of loathing at our full lips, large buttocks, course hair and broad noses. There were no Black models then, the only Blacks on television were Amos and

LITTLE TURN TO 10

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Insight News • June 30 - July 6, 2014 • Page 9

Page 10 • June 30 - July 6, 2014 • Insight News

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Twins fighting as All-Star home game approaches Moments in Sports By Ryan T. Scott ryan@insightnews.com The Minnesota Twins are doing what they consistently do, which is ‌ play gritty baseball, and hope that a couple of their small market (dollar bill y’all) stars rise to carry the team beyond expectations. The latter doesn’t always happen, but with the Twins you always have to respect the effort and tradition. Of late, the team picked up a four game sweep of the rival Chicago White Sox to pull slightly closer to a .500 record. Several streaks of the sort

Little From 8 Andy (which my parents forbid us to watch). There

will be needed to challenge the leaders in the American League Central Division. The Detroit Tigers are the usual suspects leading the division, but an unusually hot mid-season stretch from the Kansas City Royals is stirring one of the more exciting early division races in the American League. Fortunately, as it stands, only five games separate the Twins from the Tigers, and so per norm, the Twins are in the mix. The overall stage for the Twins is brighter than usual, as the MLB All-Star game will be shining brightly in downtown Minneapolis (July 11-15). Successful new stadiums such as Target Field (completed 2010) are often awarded favor in the selection process for high revenue events such as the All-Star game. Of course our state’s most recent executive

MLB

Danny Santana

were no Black politicians and for the most part the only Black businesses were chittlin’ shacks, liquor stores, barber shops and mortuaries. As the fires continued to crackle, Daddy’s consistent declaration to me was that

celebration came through the Vikings being awarded honors

as host of the 2018 Super Bowl. And though executives

I was his angel and that I was beautiful. This in my estimation is the inherent need of every little girl – no matter what color. As a result, I dreamt of marrying a man just like my father, and no matter what my father was enduring

in his personal life, he would affirm my dreams, sometimes with sweat bursting from his forehead after pushing lawn mowers under the hot sun. Even then, he would declare, “You are going to make some lucky man a wonderful wife

Calendar • Classifieds Send Community Calendar information to us by email: info@insightnews.com, by fax: 612.588.2031, by phone: 612.588-1313 or by mail: 1815 Bryant Ave. N. Minneapolis, MN 55411. Free or low cost events preferred. EVENTS Celebrate Minnesota’s Summer of Civil Rights July 12 - July 31 July 2, 2014 marks the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Help celebrate the golden anniversary of this landmark legislation by taking part in the many events that are part of Minnesota’s Summer of Civil Rights. Saturday, July 12, 5 p.m.-7 p.m. University of Minnesota Coffman Memorial Union, 300 16th Ave. SE, Minneapolis, Key reflections on the Civil Rights Act from Minnesota judges. Wednesday, July 23, 5 p.m.-8 p.m. William Mitchell College of Law, 875 Summit Ave.,

Phone: 612.588.1313

8- First Steps of Starting Your Small Business: Learn the basics of a business plan and get introduced to the resources NDC has available to help you start and finance your small business. Tuesday, July 15-Branding Your Business: Learn the basics of branding and how it can help strengthen relationships with your customers, gain more recognition in the marketplace and give your customers a unique experience. Tuesday July 22- Internet Marketing: Learn about internet marketing and receive different tools and strategies. Tuesday, July 29My Small Business Brainstorm: Want to start a business and do not know where to start? Come brainstorm and find out your talents and gifts that could be profitable. Explore different sectors, ideas and opportunities that may spark a flame inside. Be sure to register for these free workshops, they fill up fast. The limit is 12 participants. Contact Cicely Corbett at 651-379-8113, or email at

Saint Paul, and Thursday, July 31, Location TBD 50th anniversary closing ceremony. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 outlawed discrimination in the United States based on race, color, religion, sex or national origin. It also provided voter registration protections and ended racial segregation in schools, workplaces and facilities that serve the general public. Neighborhood Development Center’s Free Business Workshops - June 17 - July 29 All workshops held at the Rondo Community Outreach Library, 461 N Dale St., St. Paul 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, June 17Demographics Now: Learn the demographics as well as purchasing patterns of the households who live in a selected area. Monday, June 23- Understanding Accounting: Learn about financial analysis, ratio analysis and how to read and understand financial statements. Tuesday, July

Operations Generalist – Duluth

Office Manager/Legal Assistant

The U.S. District Court, District of MN is accepting applications for a full-time Operations Generalist in our Duluth location. Salary range is $38,334 - $62,307. For complete job description, visit the court’s website www.mnd.uscourts.gov, Employment. An Equal Opportunity Employer

Central Minnesota Legal Services-St. Cloud Office

Administrative Assistant

Full-time position in our Saint Cloud office. Duties include: maintaining filing and storage sys.; compiling reports; client intake; drafting legal docs; referrals to com svcs; other duties as assigned. Microsoft Word a plus. Salary: D.O.E. up to $32,816. Excellent benefits. Resume, references, and cover letter by 06/16/14 (late applications accepted until filled), Terri S. Thorson, Managing Attorney, CMLS, 110 6th Avenue South, Suite 205, 56301. No calls please. EOE.

HENNEPIN COUNTY Department of Human Resources Hennepin County Government Center 300 South Sixth Street Minneapolis, MN 55487

City of Minneapolis: Case Investigator –

http://hennepin.jobs INVITES APPLICATIONS FOR THE POSITION OF:

Job # 21506 /$49,369 to $67,861 Annually Under the supervision of the Director of the Office of Police Conduct Review, responds to complaints of alleged police misconduct by conducting preliminary and/or administrative investigations and summarizes the chronology of events and the evidence gathered for each assigned case. Qualifications: Education - Two (2) years of post-secondary education in Criminal Justice, Sociology, Psychology or a closely related field; Experience - two (2) years investigative experience including actual interviewing; Equivalency: equivalent combination of related education / experience may be considered. Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license while employed in the position. Applications accepted June 23, 2014 through July 7, 2014. To review a complete job announcement, including requirements/instructions, and to apply online, visit www.minneapolismn.gov/jobs.

Administrative Assistant SALARY: $38,906.40 - $60,251.36 Annually OPENING DATE: 06/09/14 CLOSING DATE: 06/20/14 5:00 PM Central Time JOB TYPE: Full-time LOCATION: North Minneapolis, Minnesota DEPARTMENT: NorthPoint Health and Wellness An Equal Opportunity Employer

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immediately celebrate the award, Twin Cities’ residents are more inclined to celebrate the MLB All-Star Game when the overtime paychecks and generous tips flood their pockets from the estimated 160,000 visitors and $75 million economic impact. The 1992 Metrodome Superbowl was estimated to have had a $79 million impact. It is hoped that the improved pedestrian nature of Target Field, along with the efficiency of the Hiawatha Light Rail, will help to drive greater overall impact (small businesses would be wise to “get in where you fit in�). The highlight of the modern MLB All-Star Game is the Home Run Derby (July 14). All-Star voting ends July 3, but thus far Toronto’s Edwin Encarnacion leads the league with 24 home runs. Twins’ second baseman Brian

Dozier is the team leader with a respectable 15 home runs, though it is very unlikely to see him in the All-Star spotlight event. The Twins aren’t known for hitting the “long ball,â€? but rather “small ballâ€? (easy explanation is that they don’t rely on home runs to win games), but are seeing hopeful returns from new players such as catcher Kurt Suzuki, and rookie centerfielder Danny Santana, whom is the team’s latest must see attraction. To understand how the Twins system cultivates its players, is to constantly see hope that the bats and pitches will eventually catch fire to reward the club’s consistent approach. Until then fans can relax and enjoy the national All-Star spotlight, the league’s best stadium, and baseball’s greatest selling advantage ‌ summer. Enjoy.

one day, and I would roll back on my heels and smile after having received the “prize� from him yet once again.

currently seeking publication for her first book, “Purpose for Your Pain...� She is the proud mother of Namibia Little who lives in Minneapolis.

Azaniah Little lives in Seattle. She works as a freelance writer, minister and consultant, and is

Fax: 612.588.2031

ccorbett@ndc-mn.org. To find more, visit the Workshop page at http://www.ndc-mn.org/ The Bloomington Human Rights Commission hosts, Freedom Riders - thru July 6 The exhibit will be on display Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-10 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, 1-10 p.m. The exhibit features powerful photography, news coverage, and first-hand audio accounts from the Freedom Riders, the Kennedy administration and the international community. in commemoration of the 50th anniversary at the Bloomington Civic Plaza Lobby. For more information and event registration, contact: 952-563-4944, TTY 952563-4933 or reservations@ BloomingtonMN.gov, 1800 West Old Shakopee Road, Bloomington, MN 55431. “Real Change: Breaking the Cycle of Domestic Violence� – July 24 Women’s Advocates host

Section 8 Housing for Seniors 62 and older 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. 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

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.

community conversations around domestic violence and solutions to prevention. Titled “Real Change: Breaking the Cycle of Domestic Violence,� the event will be held July 24 at Penumbra Theatre, 270 North Kent Street in St. Paul. July 24, 2014: “Bringing Together the Elements: Violence and Public Health� 5-5:45 p.m.: Reception and refreshments; 6-6:30 p.m.: Welcoming remarks; 6:30; 7 p.m.: Presentation by Deborah Prothrow-Stith, MD ; 7-8 p.m.; Moderated discussion with T. Mychael Rambo. For more information about the event and to RSVP, visit www. wadvocates.org or call 651227-9966. This event is free and open to the public, though RSVPs are encouraged. Ordway Announces 2014 Summer Dance Series Lineup - thru July 24 The Ordway Center for the Performing Arts announce the lineup for the 2014 Summer Dance Series. The popular series offers free, family-

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

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

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

friendly dance events and live music in Rice Park in downtown Saint Paul on select Thursday evenings throughout the summer. Beginning June 19, the Ordway Summer Dance Series will highlight a different dance and music genre each week, offering free lessons from professional instructors from around the community, followed by live music and open dance in the park. Each evening will begin with a social gathering at 5:30 p.m. where food and beverages will be available for purchase from The Saint Paul Hotel, R.A. MacSammy’s, Potter’s Pasties and the Leprechaun’s Dreamcycle. At 6:00 p.m., local dance professionals will lead group dance lessons focusing on a different style each week. At 7:15 p.m., attendees can show off what they learned at an open dance with live music from local bands. All events are free and open to the public. For more information about the series, visitwww. o r d w a y. o rg / s u m m e r d a n c e .

RENTALS

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.

Email: info@insightnews.com

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

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.

West Falls Estates

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

insightnews.com

Insight News • June 30 - July 6, 2014 • Page 11

SOUND

SYSTEM By Toki Wright Urban radio remains one of the strongest forces to spread style, music, culture and ideas throughout the world. For nearly 40 years 89.9 FM, KMOJ has stood as a powerful source in the state of Minnesota. Music director, on air personality, and programmer, Chris Styles, has become one of our most recognizable voices. I recently sat down to talk with him about the power of radio and what it can do to change how we think as people. “My mission in all honesty is to bring balance to people’s lives,” said the 10-year radio veteran. “I’m fortunate enough to be heard by different ages, colors and creeds. We’re all different but in many cases we’re all the same.” Urban radio provides another voice in the story of America that can redirect the attitudes of all citizens. Whether it is staying current with regional and international news,

playing classic music or giving exposure to up and coming artists.” Though KMOJ maintains an urban adult contemporary format it is impossible to ignore the presence and need for hip-hop culture. Many argue down the impact of hip-hop simply dismissing it as a self-destructive cancer in urban communities. In discussing the influence Chris Styles stated, “I believe that two generations were programmed the wrong thing. There is science of how to program music for people but nine times out of 10 the people in those positions do not have love for the culture. They have a love for the money.” Chris Styles programs and hosts KMOJ’s most popular program, Tite@ Nite. Weeknights from 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. listeners can hear current day national hip-hop music, classic songs and up-and-coming hometown artists. The award-winning show is one of the few places you can actually hear songs

An in depth interview with KMOJ music director Chris Styles

Chris Styles

STYLES TURN TO 12

Monday, June 30

Dwele Shiro Dame

Lauryn Hill First Avenue 701 1st Ave. N., Minneapolis 8 p.m. 18-plus $65 The soulful and sometimes aloof Ms. Hill returns to First Ave as a part of her current tour.

June 30 - July 6

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 Night Blues Jam Minnesota Music Cafe 499 Payne Ave., St Paul 8 p.m. – Midnight

DJ Kool Akiem

DJ Willie Shu Metasota

Cipha Sounds

A weekly blues jams session hosted by KFAI’s Lady J and The Root Doctors.

Glopesci

Tuesday, July 1 Discussion and Book Signing of “The Myth of Race, The Reality of Racism” Golden Thyme Coffee Shop 921 Selby Ave., St. Paul 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. In this 20th anniversary release of Mahmoud El-Kati’s “The Myth of Race, The Reality of Racism,” he poses his thesis on the concept of race and the impact of racism. In this second

edition, El-Kati adds several key essays addressing ideas that are often confusing to many such as nationality, culture and ways to address “man’s most dangerous myth” – race. His critical analysis of race, racism and the doctrine of white supremacy provide profound insight into the destruction caused to human dignity and the impact on society’s growth.

Wednesday, July 2 St. Paul Summer Blowout Minnesota Music Cafe 499 Payne Ave., St. Paul 21-plus $6 The St. Paul Summer Blowout is an evening of live performances

from St. Paul Slim, Long Doe, Glo Pesci, Mastermind, DJ Kool Akiem and more.

10:00PM 21-plus $5

Thursday, July 3

Celebrate with Soul Tools DJ Willie Shu at this pre 4th of July jam.

Red, White, and SHU w/ DJ Willie Shu Honey 205 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis

Friday, July 4 IT! TURN TO 12

Page 12 • June 30 - July 6, 2014 • Insight News

insightnews.com

Clocks and Clouds will be Live on the Drive The annual Northside summer concert series, Live on the Drive, continues it’s seventh year. The unique sounds of Clocks and Clouds classical fusion will perform on Thursday, July 10th, from 6 to 8pm. The second of three concerts held outdoors this summer on the scenic Victory Memorial Drive at 34th Avenue North in Minneapolis, one of the most beautiful concert settings in the city. Clocks and Clouds has stunned audiences with their unique fusion of rock and classical music. The group consists of violinist Stephanie Shogren, cellist Lucas Shogren, and drummer Derek Powers. Each member brings their own individual musical style and ideas to create exciting and epic music that has been met with enthusiasm in audiences of all ages. By adding pick-ups to their acoustic instruments, incorporating guitar effects and loops, using a full drum kit, and writing original rock music for stringed instruments, a

Clocks and Clouds sound is created that is instantly appealing to listeners. Come with an appetite and

enjoy dinner from food vendors The Lowry Café, Mama Donato’s Woodfired Pizza, Gramsky’s

Sandwiches, and treat yourself with gelato from Nona Rossa’s. Stay into the evening for a

movie in the park, featuring “Remember The Titans” at dusk right at the Live on the

Drive concert site. Our “green” events feature recycling and composting, diverting 93% of materials out of the waste stream last year. Live on the Drive is presented by founding partner, North Memorial, with the Cleveland Neighborhood Association, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, North End Hardware and The Lowry Café, Hennepin County, Westphal Auxiliary Legion, Healy Creative, North News, Victory Neighborhood Association, Washburn-McReavy, and the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council. This activity is funded, in part, by appropriations from the Minnesota State Legislature with money from the State’s general fund, and its arts and cultural heritage fund that was created by a vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008. For more information, call 612-588-1155 or visit www. liveonthedrive.org

BOOK REVIEW

“One Nation: What We Can Do to Save America’s Future” By Kam Williams “In February 2013, I gave a speech at the National Prayer Breakfast… I warned my fellow citizens of the dangers facing our country, and called for a return to the principles that made America great… but our nation’s decline has continued. Our growing debt and deteriorating morals have driven us far from the founders’ intent… Worst of all, we seem to have lost our ability to discuss important issues

calmly and respectfully… We have to come together to solve our problems. Knowing that the future of my grandchildren is in jeopardy because of reckless spending, godless government, and mean-spirited attempts to silence critics left me no choice but to write this book… a road [map] out of our decline, appealing to every American’s decency and common sense.” - Excerpted from the Book Jacket Ever since Barack Obama jumpstarted his historic presidential campaign with

“The Audacity of Hope,” it seems that writing a book has become a prerequisite for anyone with eyes on the White House. In recent weeks, Democratic frontrunner Hillary Clinton (“Hard Choices”), potential spoiler Elizabeth Warren (“A Fighting Chance”) and Republican Rick Santorum (“Blue Collar Conservatives”) have all published position papers. Now, neurosurgeon Dr. Ben Carson has written his prescription for what’s ailing the U.S., namely, “One Nation: What We Can All Do to Save America’s Future,” a

SUMMER AT THE GUTHRIE The hummable, quotable, utterly enjoyable musical for the whole family.

JUNE 28 – AUGUST 31 SPONSORED BY

book and lyrics by

ALAN JAY LERNER

music by

FREDERICK LOEWE

based on Pygmalion by

GEORGE BERNARD SHAW

directed by

JOE DOWLING

A laugh-out-loud comedy with a touch of naughty.

JULY 19 – AUGUST 31

clarion call for an end of the dysfunctional partisan politics which has left Washington, D.C. utterly gridlocked. While the outspoken independent hasn’t officially aligned himself with either the Democrats or Republicans, his tough love philosophy has resonated more with right-wing conservatives, leading to regular appearances on the Fox News Network. Dr. Carson has been a media darling since leveling criticism at President Obama while delivering the keynote speech at last year’s National Prayer Breakfast. In this frank opus, he fleshes out his positions on a variety of issues, ranging from faith to healthcare to bigotry to morality to education.

For example, in terms of the welfare state, he argues that “Giving able-bodied people handouts rather than requiring they work for pay is every bit as cruel as the activities practiced by racists of the past.” As for gay rights, he states, “I believe marriage is between a man and a woman” because humans have no right to change the Biblical definition. A devout Christian, he cites Scripture before concluding that “Condoning homosexual behavior goes directly against God’s commands.” Obviously no fan of political correctness, Dr. Carson feels that, “If we are to survive as a united nation, we must learn how to engage

in civil discussion of our differences without becoming bitter enemies. And as far as presidential plans, he says he will only run, if called upon by God. An old-fashioned, family values candidate awaiting a sign from the Lord that his moment to lead the nation out of the wilderness has indeed arrived.

Styles

at the core of our discussion. I had to question where we were out of balance, to which Chris Styles responded, “An individual goes through a day. They have their highs and their lows. They have their good moments and their bad moments. The music should be a reflection of that. We should have our happy moments, our sad moments, there must be balance. I, for one, can’t sit here and only play club music. I’d lose my mind. I’m sure there are some individuals that can do that but as a community no.” Styles said when a community is programmed to hear only one thing, “They ultimately consume, conform and replicate. I’ve been able to host shows and witness the music the DJ was playing create energy to get people to fight. There are times where people have called me to play a song and they’ve cried. Imagine the impact that would have on a group of people over a lifetime.” Chris Styles also touched on the importance of yesterday, today and tomorrow. “In order for us to truly know where were going we have to know where we came from,” said Styles. “For today it’s always important to be relevant.

Then you have tomorrow. You must allow people to prepare themselves to be aware of what is to come and in many cases expose them to something they weren’t aware of, like music they haven’t heard. In addition, you have to have your highs, mediums and lows – highs replicating energy, party, club, mediums under control and having a good time and vibing (and) lows when you quiet yourself down and slow yourself down a little bit.” The continuous contributions and countless hours spent creating balance will not go overlooked. Chris Styles remains one of the most important leaders in the development of Minnesota – a Minnesota that needs balance as it grows. “I know there’s a kid out there that wants to do what I do and he’s paying very close attention to what I play, I say and what I do,” said Styles. “They will apply those same things and carry it on.” To be played on Tite@Nite Styles said music must be edited, it must be mastered properly, and in mp3 form. Artists should send submissions to titeatnitemusic@gmail.com.

and old school and reggae with Disco T (Open Air Club). All white dress is required. Advance tickets at www.ticketfly.com.

sounds like an afro/astro world where Fela Kuti jams with Parliament and smokes with the Art Ensemble of Chicago.

Saturday, July 5

Sunday, July 6

From 11 directly made by people living in the inner cities of Minnesota in rotation with other music. Combined with open dialogue, the show is a hub for some of the rawest conversation in the region. This combination allows hip-hop the necessary platform to exist as a positive force. Many fail to understand the great importance of showcasing Minnesota music. “First and foremost the opportunity to be heard by 100,000 people at any given moment (is huge),” said Chris Styles. “(It’s) Exposure for those that take it (making music) seriously and want to make a living, and in many cases servicing the community. When you think of community you shouldn’t necessarily always think of your demographic. The Minnesota community is a reflection of the world – a big gumbo pot – Black, white, Asian, Hispanic, Somali and that’s just the cultures. We have kids ages one all the way up to grandma that’s 80.” The importance of maintaining balance remained

IT! From 11 14th Annual White Out Affair The Venue/Fineline/Open Air Club 9:00 p.m. – 2 a.m. 21-plus $30 advanced purchase general admission, $60 advanced purchase VIP

SPONSORED BY by

CHRISTOPHER

DURANG

directed by

JOEL

SASS

612.377.2224 GUTHRIETHEATER.ORG

Sumthin’ Special has teamed with Thee Urbane Life for the White Out Affair, taking place simultaneously at three clubs. At this annual event hear the sounds of Grammy nominated soul/neosoul/R&B star, Dwele (Fine Line), New York’s Hot 97 DJ, Cipha Sounds (The Venue)

Sound Verite Presents: Zulu Zuluu w/ Shiro Dame Dakota Jazz Club 1010 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis 11 p.m. 18-plus Minneapolis rapper Greg Grease joins DJ Just Nine, keyboardist Taylor Johnson and MPC player Trelly Mo in a new experimental hip-hop group that combines Grease’s rap, soul, jazz, funkedup beats and hard grooves that

“One Nation What We Can All Do to Save America’s Future” by Dr. Ben Carson and Candy Carson Sentinel HC Hardcover, $25.95 254 pages ISBN: 978-1-59523-112-3

Destroy the Archetype Featuring Cage and Sadistik The Pourhouse 10 South 5th St., Minneapolis 8 p.m. 18-plus $15 Kid Cudi collaborator and one time Eminem nemesis, Cage returns to Minneapolis with Seattle’s Sadistik. Also on the bill are Metasota and Ecid.

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