Introducing Brian Spann: A Talented Eye Behind the Lens at Insight News and CoachLeah’s After the Whistle

Sports Editor

By Leahjean M. Denley, MBA

Insight News and CoachLeah’s

After the Whistle are delighted to welcome the exceptional talent of Brian Spann, photographer extraordinaire from Spannman Media. With his artistic vision and keen eye for detail, Spann brings a new dimension to our platforms, adding a captivating visual element to our sports coverage. Spann is no stranger to the world of photography.

With years of experience capturing stunning images, he has established himself as a respected name in the industry.

His portfolio spans various genres, but his true passion lies in candid photography. Through his lens, he expertly freezes moments in time, allowing viewers to relive the intensity, joy, and emotion of athletic competition.

Spann’s ability to capture the essence of events extends beyond the action at the moment. His photographs speak volumes, evoking powerful emotions and painting a vivid picture of the world.

At Insight News and CoachLeah’s After the Whistle, we understand the significance of visual storytelling. We believe that Spann’s talent and artistic approach will not only enhance our sports coverage, but will also provide our readers and viewers with a richer, more immersive experience. His photographs will offer a fresh perspective, drawing us closer to the athletes, their stories, and the spirit of the game.

Beyond his technical skills, Spann embodies the values we hold dear –professionalism, creativity, and a genuine appreciation for sports. He approaches each assignment with passion and dedication, striving to capture the essence of every moment. His work not only showcases his talent, but also highlights the beauty and power of sports as a universal language.

Join us in extending a warm welcome to Brian Spann of Spannman Media as he joins the Insight News and CoachLeah’s After the Whistle family. We are thrilled to embark on this visual journey together, where his photographs will bring the sports world to life, inspire conversations, and celebrate the incredible moments that define athletic excellence and other timely events.

Insight News Celebrates Brett McNeal: From All-American to Athletics’ Administrator, a Leader in Sports and Education

By Leahjean M. Denley, MBA

Sports Editor

Brett McNeal’s journey in sports has come full circle, culminating in his recent appointment as the Assistant Director of Athletics at Minneapolis Public Schools. A true embodiment of excellence, McNeal’s accomplishments both as a player and a coach –not to mention his community engagement efforts - make him a remarkable addition to the district’s leadership team.

During his time at Minneapolis North High School, McNeal showcased his exceptional talent as an everpopular Polar basketball player, earning the prestigious title of All-American. His skills and leadership on the court propelled his team to three consecutive state tournament appearances, leaving an indelible mark on the school’s athletic history. After honing his craft and gaining invaluable experience playing at the Div. 1 collegiate level at Western Kentucky University, McNeal returned to Minneapolis to work in the public sector and then in 2002 to his alma mater as the head coach of the Minneapolis North High School boys’ basketball team. Under his guidance, the team soared to renewed heights, culminating in a remarkable Minnesota state championship victory in 2003. McNeal’s strategic coaching, mentorship, and ability to inspire his players played a pivotal role in their success, solidifying his reputation as an exceptional leader both on and off the court. Now, as the Assistant Director of Athletics at Minneapolis Public Schools, McNeal brings his wealth of knowledge and passion for sports and education to the district level. His unique perspective as a former player, coach, and high school athletics director positions him perfectly to inspire and guide s scholar-athletes in their pursuit of athletic and academic excellence. McNeal is certain to build on the district’s existing athletic programs, fostering an environment that prioritizes inclusivity, equal opportunity, and the holistic development of scholar-athletes. Integrating the values of discipline, teamwork, and leadership into the fabric of Minneapolis Public Schools’ athletic culture. McNeal will motivate coaches and educators to empower scholar-athletes to reach their full potential both on and off the field. Insight News celebrates the appointment of Brett McNeal. Minneapolis Public Schools is fortunate to have such a talented and visionary leader guiding its athletic programs and their selection of McNeal demonstrates the district’s unwavering commitment to sports and education. With McNeal’s guidance and dedication, Minneapolis Public Schools’ scholar-athletes can look forward to a future filled with limitless possibilities and remarkable achievements.

W.D. Foster-Graham

BLACK GIRL, BLACK GIRL, WHAT DO YOU SEE?

I See a Black Princess Looking at Me!

By Dr. Talaya M. Tolefree &

Nnpa

From 3 on twitter regarding Watson’s prosecution.

Ozy recently released a statement regarding ten one thousand dollar grants that have not been delivered to their “genius award” recipients.

KennethMontgomery, an attorney on Watson’s legal team, said in a statement that, “the unwarranted criminal charges brought the company to a complete standstill and forced the cessation of operations. The Watson family firmly believes in making higher education accessible to all, which is why they cofounded Achieva College Prep Service well before Mr. Watson founded OZY.”

Carlos Watson, 53, is a graduate of Harvard University, Stanford University and Stanford Law School.

Lauren Victoria Burke is an independent journalist and the host of the podcast BURKEFILE and publisher of Black Virginia News. She is a political analyst who appears regularly on #RolandMartinUnfiltered. She may be contacted at LBurke007@gmail.com and on twitter at @LVBurke

Nia-Imani Tolefree

It is always gratifying to me to see more children’s books that center upon Black girls and boys, a far cry from the lay of the land decades ago. Independent authors deserve a hat tip for their labor of love in publishing these books, which instill education, teachable moments, and pride in who we are as descendants of kings and queens. Mother and daughter Dr. Talaya Tolefree and Nia-Imani Tolefree’s book Black Girl, Black Girl, What Do You See? I

See a Black Princess Looking at Me! epitomizes these principles. As a child of the 1950s, I grew up with the dichotomy of “good hair” vs. “bad hair” when it came to Black women. Beautifully illustrated by Simbarashe Langton Vera, with each page, this book affirms Black Girl Beauty, from the array of skin tones we have to the great variety of styles that complement natural hair, hair befitting a princess. It puts the lie to the belief that having natural hair is “bad hair,” and that Black girls have to live up to beauty standards of a culture not their own.

I loved Tolefree’s Sankofa moments of beauty and brilliance, loving the whole person. As for the affirmation, if I’d had