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Insight News January 21 - January 27, 2019

Vol. 46 No. 3• The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com

NCAA partnerships will help to rebuild community resources

NCAA comes to North Minneapolis to announce Final Four activities

By Harry Colbert, Jr. Managing Editor @HarryColbertJr The NCAA Men’s Final Four is not merely a series of three basketball games; it’s four days of area-wide events bringing in upwards of 100,000 visitors pouring millions of dollars into the local economy.

And then it’s gone.

But the affects of the April 5 – April 8 events, culminating in the championship game at US Bank Stadium, will be long-lasting thanks to intentional planning by those of the area host committee. That intentionality was on display this past Wednesday (Jan. 16) when in announcing the series of fan experience events that announcement was not made at a predictable location such as the stadium or convention center or somewhere along Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis where many events will occur.

The announcement was made at 1801 James Ave. N. That is the address to North Commons Park in the heart of North Minneapolis.

Though the NCAA may not have had North Minneapolis specifically in mind

A graphic showing CBS’ announced new hires to cover the 2020 presidential election.

No Blacks in CBS’ initial ‘embed’ team of digital journalists for 2020 campaign Harry Colbert, Jr.

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey (left) addresses an audience inside North Commons Park in Minneapolis as the NCAA Final Four announced a litany of fan events taking place April 5 – April 8. when it chose its host city for the 2019 Final Four, it has been made clear through action that the neighborhoods – and more importantly, the people – that make up North Minneapolis will not be left out in the cold.

The announcement of fan activities – activities that include the Final Four Fan Fest at the Minneapolis Convention Center, Final Four Friday, a free

open practice of the four teams who will compete for the crown, a daily tailgate on Nicollet Mall, the March Madness Music Series at the Armory, and Final Four Dribble, a youth parade – was highlighted by the announcement that the gymnasium where the activities where unveiled will get a facelift thanks to the NCAA Final Four host committee, Tri-Construction,

and volunteers from Unilever and Target.

The gym, built in 1908, a facility of Minneapolis Parks & Recreation, serves as a community hub for North Minneapolis, serving residents from youth to elderly.

For Willie Jasper, a

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Lola Velazquez-Aguilu to chair Commission on Judicial Selection Gov. Tim Walz has selected Lola Velazquez-Aguilu to serve as the chair of the Commission on Judicial Selection.

The Commission on Judicial Selection solicits, considers, and recommends candidates to the governor for vacancies in the District Trial Courts and the Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals. It is a joint commission, appointed by the governor and the Supreme Court, made up of nine at-large members, including the chair, and four district members from each of Minnesota’s ten Judicial Districts. With the appointment Velazquez-Aguilu will chair the Commission she has served on since 2016. “(Velazquez-Aguilu) is a self-driven and dedicated public

Lola Velazquez-Aguilu servant and an accomplished attorney whose leadership will set the tone of the Commission,”

said Walz. “We are committed to working together with Ms. Velazquez-Aguilu and members of the Commission to ensure that those who uphold the rule of law are qualified and representative of our communities.”

Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan said Velazquez-Aguilu’s record for fairness, equity and diversity speaks for itself.

“We are confident that, as Chair of the Commission, she will continue her commitment to supporting a diverse and independent judiciary,” said Flanagan. “Our courts are the conduits of equal and fair justice and should reflect the diversity of Minnesota. We look forward to continue creating an equal and fair judiciary system by identifying excel-

lent judges in partnership with the Commission under Ms. Velazquez-Aguilu’s leadership.”

In her time on the Commission on Judicial Selection, Velazquez-Aguilu participated in the selection and appointment of 13 new judges. She currently serves as litigation and investigations counsel at Medtronic.

Previously, she has served as an assistant United States Attorney, an associate at Dorsey & Whitney, LLP and as a law clerk for Justice Ann Montgomery and the Justice Alan Page. She has also served as the co-chair of the United States District Court Magistrate Merit Selection Panel, on the Transition Committee for Attorney General-elect Keith

VELAZQUEZ-AGUILU 3

Washington, D.C. – The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) said the body is disappointed and disturbed about CBS News’ recent announcement showcasing new hires for coverage of the 2020 Presidential election.

The uproar began following a producer’s tweet that included a graphic with 12 staffers, of which none are African-American or Black.

Immediately the graphic set off a wave of criticism throughout the media industry, as well as the general public, with many expressing concern that Blacks will not be covering the 2020 election and issues important to African-Americans would not be addressed.

“It is unfortunate that we are still having these discussions about diversity and inclusion,” said NABJ President Sarah Glover. “Ironically last year the 50th anniversary of the Kerner Commission Report was a major topic and now in 2019 we’re still asking media organizations specifically, and society as a whole to do the right thing. CBS’s political team takes previously heralded steps back half a century.”

CBS responded to the criticism saying the team that was announced is “an initial wave of what will be an outstanding and diverse group of journalists assigned to cover the 2020

election for CBS News.”

Additionally, the company says recently promoted Lorna Jones, who is African-American, is the new managing editor for the CBS Washington Bureau and will oversee much of the political and other news coverage. The new hires showcased in the tweet are digital journalists who are field reporters and will be embedded in political campaigns.

NABJ vice president of Digital, Roland Martin said, “It is unacceptable that no African-Americans are even in the initial group of hires. We implore CBS to significantly improve its hiring from a healthy pool of African-Americans, not only in political coverage but in areas company-wide.

We are closely watching developments in hiring practices of CBS and all media companies, not only in the political arena but company-wide.”

NABJ said it hopes to work with CBS and others to ensure that more diverse staffs and diversity in coverage are always part of discussions when making decisions.

“It makes good business sense to be fair and balanced in everything we do,” added Glover. “We can’t hold others accountable, if we are not practicing basic, sound business practices.”

Keith Ellison interview series: Part 3

Justice system stunted and stopped AfricanAmerican ambition

By Al McFarlane Editor-In-Chief

Cyntoia Brown granted clemency

al@insightnews.com

The political landscape: Al McFarlane: What’s the landscape? There are five Attorney Generals who are AfricanAmerican.

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Correspondent @SatcyBrownMedia

Keith Ellison: True.

At long last, one of the greatest injustices in recent history has been corrected.

Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam granted clemency on Jan. 7 to Cyntoia Brown, a woman serving a life sentence for murder who says she was a victim of sex trafficking. The outgoing Republican governor, whose term ends later this month, chose to show mercy to the now 30-yearold Brown by releasing her Aug. 7. Brown was sentenced to life in prison for killing a man when she was 16. Brown killed the man while being trafficked by a pimp and says the

Al McFarlane: That’s a big deal.

Keith Ellison: It’s huge.

Al McFarlane: Why is it a big deal?

Reuters. Screen capture from video.

Human trafficking victim and convicted murderer, Cyntoia Brown, was granted clemency Jan. 7 by outgoing Tennessee Republican Gov. Bill Haslam. man she killed assaulted her.

She will remain on parole

Business

Black chefs break the glass ceiling in the culinary world

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supervision for 10 years on the condition she does not vio-

BROWN 3

Keith Ellison: It’s a big deal because so often, the legal system and the system of justice is stunted and stopped AfricanAmerican ambition. It’s what kept us segregated, poor, in fear, and without. It was a law that said you and I were articles of merchandise. It was the law that said we weren’t. There’s

Community

I2H

A winter walk for better health

PAGE 4

A new sheriff in Ramsey County … well, not brand new

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Attorney General Keith Ellison the law that said we were articles of merchandise, but we couldn’t sit where other folks sat, ride in the bus where other folks could ride, drink in the fountain where the folks could drink, and it was the law that changed that as well.

So now, to be the Attorney General is something else.

When the state government in Mississippi said we’re not going to follow Brown v. Board, it

ELLISON 3

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iLLism ‘Illuminates’ on duo’s new album

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Page 2 • January 21 - January 27, 2019 • Insight News

insightnews.com

for your life.

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Fred Wescott We has been growing apples in the small sm southeast Minnesota town of Elgin for more than 40 years. Stop by Cub and find the best selection of local apples, right in your y backyard.

insightnews.com

Insight News • January 21 - January 27, 2019 • Page 3

Business

Black chefs break the glass ceiling in the culinary world

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia The culinary business world is as cut throat as any other.

It’s also known as an industry that hasn’t always allowed for much diversity in management and ownership at its higher echelon. However, it appears that African-Americans are finally breaking barriers, starring in many kitchens around the nation and serving up fine delicacies and treats that have those of all races and backgrounds coming back for second-helpings.

“Memphis is a foodie town with a minority-majority makeup … thoughtful discussions about equity in the food industry are at the forefront here and folks care about presentation, which is at the heart of the issue,” said Cynthia Daniels, the founder of Memphis Black Restaurant Week. “I’ve also seen the difficulty that Black-owned restaurants experience with not having big marketing budgets to advertise for new business.”

That’s why she

founded Memphis Black Restaurant Week and has advised other cities to do the same.

“It’s a celebration that advocates for Black chefs, brings more awareness around their food and beverage traditions, generates new income, and moves the needle in terms of inclusivity in the culinary world,” said Daniels.

That inclusion and enthusiasm appears to have caught on.

“I am truly optimistic for the future with the culinary industry because while there are still a lot of areas in which to grow, we are slowly chipping away the stereotype of what AfricanAmerican chefs have to offer,” said award-winning executive chef and QVC food stylist Kristol Bryant. “We are diversified in our skills, talents and cuisines. African American chefs are no longer just soul-food or southern cuisine chefs, we are so much more. Through education and exploration, we can finally break into areas that we never knew were there. Being seen on television is great for us but being a legitimate authority in culinary in the corporate, private and entertainment sectors is the next step.”

Executive Chef Edouardo Jordan/Courtesy The Strand House An article in the culinarycentric publication, FSR Magazine, noted that when its reporters wrote about the rise of African-American chefs in the U.S. three years ago, several themes prevailed, including a wide range of talented AfricanAmerican chefs had emerged, like Edouardo Jordan in Seattle, Marcus Samuelsson in New York and Mashama Bailey in Savannah, Ga. Often, AfricanAmerican chefs are stuck in the kitchen as sous chefs or line chefs and routinely failing to be given an opportuni-

ty to become head chefs, according to FSR. And, AfricanAmerican chefs, on the whole, have encountered tougher obstacles raising funds to open their own establishments.

However, the industry now has several AfricanAmerican chefs serving as role models and paving the way for more minority chefs to make their mark in the U.S. Examples include Justin Sutherland of St. Paul – winner of “Iron Chef” and contestant on “Top Chef”, Dieuveil Malonga, a 26-year old Forbes 30 under 30 Congolese chef and a finalist for

the Basque Culinary World Prize. Malonga works closely with luxury and fashion brands such as Rick Owens to bring awareness about the African continent through exclusive culinary experiences around the world.

With private clients like A$AP Rocky, Mos Def and others, Malonga has been featured by The New York Times, Vogue and BBC. He’s also spoken at the United Nations World Tourism Organization.

Chef Ronnie Rainwater of Delmonico Steakhouses, Las Vegas, also serves as another example of African-Americans breaking the proverbial glass ceiling in the culinary world. He attended Western Culinary Institute in Portland, Ore. and obtained a culinary arts Degree in 1999.

One of his early jobs in the industry was an internship in the kitchen at the Playboy Mansion in Beverly Hills, where he helped prepare dinners and private events for guests. In 1999, Ronnie was offered a position as a cook at Emeril Lagasse’s Delmonico Steakhouse at The Venetian and moved to Vegas. In 2007, he was promoted to executive sous chef at the restaurant.

In January 2011, after working with Emeril for more than 11 years at his restaurants in Las Vegas and on the East Coast, he was tapped to become the next chef de cuisine of Delmonico Steakhouse.

The rise of the African-American chef also was seen at the 2018 James Beard Awards, where four African-American and Caribbean-American chefs were honored at the ceremony.

“There is a Black hand in many pots and today, talented chefs are using their culinary skill-set as platforms to create, motivate and inspire,” said Charla Draper, a former food editor at Ebony and Southern Living magazines, who now serves as a consultant providing marketing services for food and food-related business. “Chefs are using their talents traditionally and non-traditionally to mentor and open doors for others.”

INSIGHT NEWS www.insightnews.com

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

From 1

Editor-In-Chief Al McFarlane

29-year employee at North Commons Park, the coming upgrades are heartwarming.

“I cried (when I heard about the upgrades) because with so many bad things happening around here; to hear about something good makes me cry,” said Jasper, who was given the ceremonial honor of cutting down the nets on a basketball goal inside of the North Commons gym. “North Commons is a part of me. This (the facility upgrades) is for the community.”

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey said the decision to announce upcoming Final Four events at North Commons demonstrates an overall commitment to North Minneapolis.

Publisher Batala-Ra McFarlane Associate Editor & Associate Publisher B.P. Ford Managing Editor Harry Colbert, Jr. Culture and Education Editor Dr. Irma McClaurin Associate Editor Afrodescendientes Carmen Robles

Harry Colbert, Jr.

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Ellison From 1

might’ve been “the government” on TV, but it was Mississippi’s Attorney General arguing the doctrine of interposition, which says that the federal government can’t tell the state government what to do. It’s important for people to understand states have a lot of power relative to the federal government. The federal government is a government of limited powers.

The Constitution is written like this: The federal government can regulate interstate commerce. They can regulate on all kinds of things like that, but they cannot just regulate just anywhere they want to. All other powers are left to the state, so that’s why even though we passed a great prison reform bill, well over 90% of the prisoners in the United States are state

Velazquez-Aguilu From 1

Ellison, and as president of the Infinity Project. VelazquezAguilu attended the University of Wisconsin – Madison where

Brown From 1 late any state or federal laws, as well as holds a job and participates in regular counseling sessions, the AP reported.

“Cyntoia Brown committed, by her own admission, a horrific crime at the age of 16.

Willie Jasper, a 29-year employee of North Commons Park, cuts down the nets in a ceremony to celebrate upcoming facility improvements. prisoners.

If you want to do criminal justice reform, you’ve got to do it at the state level, or it’s not really getting done. Voting, state. Healthcare, often state. In fact, Medicaid is administered through the state. Medicare is administered through the federal government. But so many things are at the state level. In fact, a state Attorney General sues the federal government all the time.

There’s attorney generals suing the federal government regarding the census, regarding the Affordable Care Act, regarding consumer protection, environmental protection, all kinds of things.

Affording your life with dignity and respect:

ond, I’m going to make sure everybody can live with dignity and respect in Minnesota and around the country. What does the first one mean? Help people afford their lives. Well, if some big company that manufactures insulin is jacking up the prices beyond what you can afford, I’m going to step up and confront them about that. If Comcast is trying to make sure your cable bill is sky high and you can’t afford that, we’re going to make sure that they’re held accountable abiding by the law.

Al McFarlane: Before you go further, what legal challenges are you being handed by your predecessor? Comcast was in the news.

She’s part of the lawsuit on the Affordable Care Act protection because the federal government refuses to defend the law in court. She is part of the challenge regarding the FCC and the internet neutrality.

And, there’s some things she’s defending that I have got to really think about.

Keith Ellison: There’s the Cruz-Guzman case, which is an educational desegregation case that’s been filed, and the Attorney General was on the other side of that. That’s something I have got to put a lot of thought into because I’ll just tell the people I could never stand with discrimination in education or anywhere. Yet, we have these horrible disparities, so we’ve got to do something. I’m not the Attorney General, so I’m not making the calls at this point.

mean to African-Americans and people of color.

In history, there has not been an apparent and articulated ongoing discussion or narration about equity and the sense of ownership. So, part of my job as a communicator is to always talk about access, equity, the ability of our people in our community to hold and direct the levers of power with intentionality and acting with agency to developing policy and practice in the state, in the marketplace that is fair to us.

It means being at the table of decision, not excluding anybody, but ensuring that our voice, our history, and our vision, our expectations are part of the consideration of developing public policy. I think you represent an opportunity for that to be more real than it has ever been. I think it’s been real. It’s been moving along an arc that bends toward justice, as Dr. King would say.

Keith Ellison: Two main priorities. One is I’m going to help people afford their lives. Sec-

Keith Ellison: Lori has filed some good lawsuits, and we’re going to maintain that tradition.

One of them is the Comcast one.

One of them is the lawsuit regarding opioid manufacturing.

Purdue Pharmaceuticals is subject to a lawsuit.

Al McFarlane: One of my goals, Keith Ellison, is to talk to you about what your being Attorney General can and should

she received her Bachelor of Arts and Juris Doctor degrees.

“It is truly an honor to be asked to serve as chair of the Commission on Judicial Selection,” said Velazquez-Aguilu. “The merit selection process is critical to ensuring the advancement of a strong, independent, and diverse judiciary. Thankfully, Minnesota is blessed to have a deep

pool of qualified lawyers from all backgrounds and all sectors of the profession who represent the best of our State. I look forward to working with the commissioners, the bench, and the governor and lieutenant governor, to recruit and select the future members of our judiciary.”

“Ms. Velazquez-Aguilu is an extraordinary lawyer, with a

demonstrated and deep commitment to creating a fair justice system that reflects the community,” said Lariss Maldonado, immediate past president of the Minnesota Hispanic Bar Association and an attorney at Stinson Leonard Street LLP. “She is authentic, thoughtful, and exceptionally intelligent.

Governor Walz’s appointment

of Ms. Velazquez-Aguilu is historic and empowering for the Latino community, for people of color, and for Minnesota as a whole. The Minnesota Hispanic Bar Association looks forward to seeing strides for equality and excellence on the bench.”

Yet, imposing a life sentence on a juvenile that would require her to serve at least 51 years before even being eligible for parole consideration is too harsh, especially in light of the extraordinary steps Ms. Brown has taken to rebuild her life,” Haslam said in his statement.

Brown’s case has attracted national attention from criminal justice reform advocates, and attention has amped up as Haslam’s second and final

term entered its final weeks.

Celebrities such as Kim Kardashian West and singer Rhanna threw their support behind the fight for her release.

The governor’s office was inundated with thousands of phone calls and emails from supporters.

“Thank you Governor Haslam,” Kardashian West tweeted soon after news of the clemency decision broke.

Brown was convicted in 2006 of murdering 43-year-

old Nashville real estate agent Johnny Allen two years before.

Police said she shot Allen in the back of the head at close range with a loaded gun she brought to rob him after he picked her up at a drive-in in Nashville.

However, according to her lawyers, Brown was a victim of sex trafficking who not only feared for her life but also lacked the mental state to be culpable in the slaying because she was impaired by her mother’s alcohol

use while she was in the womb.

Brown expressed thanks in a statement released Monday by her legal team.

“I am thankful for all the support, prayers, and encouragement I have received. We truly serve a God of second chances and new beginnings. The Lord has held my hand this whole time and I would have never made it without him,” Brown said. “Let today be a testament to his saving grace.”

Al McFarlane: What do you see as your priorities as Minnesota’s Attorney General?

Associate Editor Nigeria & West Africa Chief Folarin Ero-Phillips Director of Content & Production Patricia Weaver Content & Production Coordinator Sunny Thongthi Yang Distribution/Facilities Manager Jamal Mohamed Receptionist Lue B. Lampley Intern Kelvin Kuria Contributing Writers Nadvia Davis Fred Easter Abeni Hill Timothy Houston Michelle Mitchum Latisha Townsend Artika Tyner Toki Wright Photography David Bradley V. Rivera Garcia Uchechukwu Iroegbu Rebecca Rabb Artist Donald Walker 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,

Page 4 • January 21 - January 27, 2019 • Insight News

Insight 2 Health

insightnews.com

A winter walk for better health

The thought of a winter walk may chill you to the bone, but do so, and you’ll age better.

Researchers at King’s College in London found that the stronger your legs are over time, the fewer age-related brain changes you’ll have. In short, to keep your smarts, strengthen your legs. An easy way to do that? Walk.

If you walk beneath a starry sky down a candlelit path, in the company of family and friends, even better.

From 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. on Friday (Jan. 25), you and your family can take a candlelight walk on the Gateway State Trail. The luminaries start at the Wildwood Elementary School, 8698 75th St. N., Stillwater, and line the trail for about one mile. A bonfire to warm and beverages to refresh will be available.

The Gateway State Trail is a converted rail trail and offers 18 paved miles for nonmotorized use. It starts in St. Paul, and travels through Maplewood, North St. Paul and Oakdale, through Washington County, ending at Pine Point Regional Park. The trail connects with several parks and trails, including the Phalen-Keller Regional Park and the Bruce Vento Regional Trail. From start to end, walkers will pass downtown St. Paul, the State Capitol, parks, lakes, wetlands and fields.

On Jan. 25, however, one of those miles will be lined with flickering light. Dress for the weather and walk for better health.

DNR

Candlelight walk on the Gateway State Trail.

Two medical students awarded for standout participation in the Academy’s Minority Ophthalmology Mentoring program

American Academy of Ophthalmology and National Medical Fellowships announce recipients of new scholarship SAN FRANCISCO – The American Academy of Ophthalmology and National Medical Fellowships announced the recipients of a new scholarship that supports the mission of both organizations to provide more opportunities to underrepresented minority students pursuing medical careers.

The inaugural National Medical Fellowships Scholarship in Ophthalmology was awarded to Ja’Qulane Scales of Howard University College of Medicine in Washington, D.C., and Joshua Chazaro of Loyola Stritch School of Medicine in Maywood, Ill. Both are second-year medical students participating in the Academy’s Minority Ophthalmology Mentoring program, which was designed to attract underrepresented minorities to a career in ophthalmology and help prepare them to be competitive residency applicants.

National Medical Fellowships provides scholarships and support for underrepresented minority students in medicine and the health professions. Since 1946, the organization has awarded more than 30,000 scholarships totaling $40 million. Recipients are selected based on leadership qualities demonstrated through their research, academic performance and extracurricular activities.

Funding for the scholarships are provided through a grant from Reader’s Digest Partners for Sight Foundation.

Both Scales and Chazaro are pursuing a medical education, not only to pave the

Both Ja’Qulane Scales and Joshua Chazaro are pursuing a medical education, not only to pave the way for minority students interested in becoming ophthalmologists, but also to provide better care to patients in underserved communities. way for minority students interested in becoming ophthalmologists, but also to provide better care to patients in underserved communities.

There is a critical need to diversify the medical workforce. African Americans make up 12.8 percent of the general population, but only 2 percent of ophthalmologists.

Hispanics and Latinos make up 16.3 percent of the population, but only 4.6 percent of ophthalmologists. Overall, the shortage of health care professionals in communities of color is estimated to be between 46,000 and 90,000 physicians by 2025.

The Academy and the Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology pairs juniors and seniors in college and first- and second-year medical stu-

dents with seasoned ophthalmologists dedicated to supporting their career development and helping them become competitive residency applicants. Scales and Chazaro are among the first 22 students selected by the Academy to join the program for its inaugural year.

Scales is a native of Little Rock, Ark. and a member of the United States Navy. As a first-generation college graduate, she says the path to becoming an ophthalmologist can be challenging. She intends to practice ophthalmology in an underserved community, working to close the gap in health disparities.

Chazaro is a native of Upland, Calif. Having witnessed the discomfort marginalized populations experience in a medical set-

ting, he said he is committed to becoming a physician dedicated to delivering a better care experience.

“This scholarship will give me the opportunity to expand my goals as a medical

student and further achieve my dreams,” said Chazaro.

“National Medical Fellowships (NMF) is thrilled to have collaborated with the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s Minority Ophthalmology Mentoring program and grateful to the Reader’s Digest Partners for Sight Foundation for its support,” said president and CEO Esther R. Dyer.

“Through this scholarship, NMF can support the next generation of diverse leaders in the highly competitive field of ophthalmology.”

Past president of the Academy, Dr. Keith Carter, is also a past recipient of an NMF scholarship.

“I have always been grateful for this generosity,” said Carter. “The scholarship was very important and inspirational because of the effort of an organization offering to assist me with my training expense.”

There is a critical need to diversify the medical workforce. African Americans make up 12.8 percent of the general population, but only 2 percent of ophthalmologists. Hispanics and Latinos make up 16.3 percent of the population, but only 4.6 percent of ophthalmologists.

insightnews.com

Insight News • January 21 - January 27, 2019 • Page 5

Community A new sheriff in Ramsey County … well, not brand new

By Carmen Robles Associate Editor If you’ve ever been to a swearing in of an elected government official, you know the event is buzzing with family, friends and supporters, all coming together to experience the moment of jubilation that commemorates the hard work of campaigning.

For newly elected Ramsey County Sheriff, Bob Fletcher, the room at the St. Paul City Hall building located at 15 W. Kellogg Blvd. was filled to the brim with guests spilling out into the hallway. The ceremony was as unique as the candidate’s journey to regain this seat.

Talk about a come-back story. Fletcher was Ramsey County Sheriff from 1995-2011. He ran for re-election in 2010 losing to Matt Bostrom in 2010. During

his departure from office, his life was changed forever when his son, Kyle, died at age 26 from a drug overdose. Fletcher knows first-hand the tsunami effects of the opioid epidemic, the devastation of this plague.

One might think that was his underlying motivation to run for office. It’s more than that, however. His love and passion for Ramsey County, its 16 cities and two townships runs deep.

Surrounded by his family, his team of deputies by his side sharing the spot light, Fletcher took the oath of office. But that’s not all he took. He immediately took center stage declaring the foundation of his administration with one word “kindness.” Followed by his daughter Kelsey’s reading of a passage from Corinthians13, essentially planting the seed that he hopes will flourish throughout the Ramsey County’s Sherriff’s department

these next four years.

While most newly elected officials share words of inspiration, encouragement and highlights of the campaign, Fletcher went a step further honoring individuals who helped shape his victory.

Quite the showman, Fletcher opened his remarks by showcasing a picture of a little girl from the camps of Ban Vinai, sharing her struggles and unveiling, with great fanfare, that the little girl became the judge, Sophia Vuelo, who presided over his swearingin.

This was followed by a picture of little boy from Chicago, Andre Robinson, who moved to St. Paul and became a community advocate; helping turn the lives around of those who find themselves lost in the streets of our cities.

Reflecting on the early days of his career Fletcher recalled

Bob Fletcher takes oath of office. his memory of law school days at Hamline University. One day while getting his Whopper at Burger King he said he saw a green sign that read, “Police officers wanted – apply at …” On

a whim and a gentle push from a girlfriend, Fletcher went to the sign-up event with more than 1,800 individuals interested in a career in public safety.

“Stevie Winfield and I at-

tended the same event. Steve went into community outreach and I fell in love with becoming an officer. Convincing my mother, was another thing, though.”

Jokingly recalled Fletcher.

Get involved in the 2019 legislative session Commentary by Sen. Bobby Joe Champion The 2019 legislative session began Jan. 8 and I’m excited to submit a regular column to Insight News to help keep you informed about issues that matter for Senate District 59 at our state Capitol.

I’ve worked hard since being elected to the legislature in 2008.

Since being elected, I’ve worked on restoring individual’s rights to vote, partnered with AARP to redefine the definition for paid sick leave to include using this work-related benefit for those caring for an aging parent. I’ve also chief authored the bill to allow immigrants the right to drive

Sen. Bobby Joe Champion regardless of one’s immigration status, and I continue to fight to eliminate disparities in education, health care, housing and in employment opportunities for felons and communities of color. I will continue to be a leading advocate and champion of these important initiatives in 2019.

With a new DFL governor and House of Representatives, state lawmakers have a unique opportunity to work across party lines to do right by the people of Minnesota. Chief among our responsibilities this year is creating a new two-year state budget that adequately funds our public schools, public health care programs, and provide stable funding for transit and transportation.

According to the latest economic forecast released in December, Minnesota has a positive budget balance and a healthy amount saved in our reserves. However, state budget experts warn that market volatility and an aging workforce could result in an economic slowdown beginning in as little as several years. Although I want to make

sure local families have the resources they need for a better life, taking a cautious approach to our budgeting process and exercising fiscal responsibility in the coming year is a priority for me. The full economic forecast is available to the public online at www.mn.gov/mmb.

A revised forecast is scheduled to be released later in February.

During the next five months, people of all backgrounds from all corners of our state will flood the Capitol to advocate for the ideas and values they care about most. There are a lot of ways to get involved in the legislative process, whether you visit the Capitol to participate in a “Day on the Hill,” write a letter to your elected officials, or provide testimony for a public

hearing. For a helpful guide that explains how a bill becomes a law, visit www.leg.state.mn.us/ leg/howbill. I invite you to get involved in the legislative process and play a role in improving the lives of your family and other Minnesotans by shaping your state government.

Needless to say, my door is always open to each and every resident of our district. Please call, visit, write or email. To contact me with your ideas and feedback, you can reach me by phone at (651) 296-9246 or by email at bobbyc@senate.mn. You can also mail letters or visit me in the Minnesota Senate Building, Room 2303, right across the street from the Capitol. Thank you for allowing me to represent you at the state Capitol.

Please check your local newspapers such as Insight News for updates about the state budget, my work on restore the vote, drivers’ license for all, important equity legislation, and other necessary policies. These are all issues that affect everyone living in Senate district 59, and I want to keep you informed on these and other issues as we move forward this session.

You can also subscribe to my email newsletter by visiting www.senate.mn/senatorchampion, find me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SenBobbyJoeChampion and on Twitter at @BobbyJChampion. By subscribing, you will have more information on the issues that affect your daily lives.

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Page 6 • January 21 - January 27, 2019 • Insight News

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Lifestyle Rajané Katurah joins Children’s Theatre Company’s acting company Rajané Katurah will join the Children’s Theatre Company (CTC) Acting Company.

Katurah relocated to Minnesota in 2017 when she accepted the offer to become one of the 2017-2018 performing apprentices and has most recently appeared in Park Square Theatre’s “Marie and Rosetta.” During her time as a CTC performing apprentice, she performed roles in “Dr. Seuss’s How The Grinch Stole Christmas,” “The Wiz,” and “Dr. Seuss’s The Lorax,” which was performed both at CTC as

CTC

Rajane Katurah

well as The Old Globe in San Diego. She joins as the fifth Acting Company member alongside Autumn Ness, Dean Holt, Gerald Drake, and Reed Sigmund.

“I am over-the-moon excited to become an Acting Company member at Children’s Theatre Company,” said Katurah. “I admire the current members so much and I’m humbled to join the ranks of such amazing artists. I hope to continue to grow, learn, be challenged, succeed, and stretch myself during this

new chapter of my life. I ultimately hope to inspire children of color everywhere to dream big, and be grateful for each ‘No’ that prepares them for their ‘Yes.’” “It is a true pleasure for all of us to welcome Rajané to our Acting Company,” said CTC Artistic Director Peter Brosius. “Rajané brings not only a wealth of talent, but also an incredible warmth and joy to every encounter.

She is an actor of great depth and range and is passionate about creating extraordinary work. It was such a delight

to have her as a Performing Apprentice and we are truly thrilled to now have her join our Acting Company.”

Children’s Theatre Company (CTC) is the nation’s largest theater for young people and serves a multigenerational audience.

CTC is the only theater focused on young audiences to win a Tony Award for regional theater and is the only one in Minnesota to receive three Tony nominations (for its production of “A Year with Frog and Toad”).

PPGJLI marks 400th anniversary of slave arrivals in the U.S. with Ghanaian trip Dr. Artika Tyner, founder and executive director of Planting People Growing Justice Leadership Institute (PPGJLI), will be hosting a trip to Ghana in 2019 as part of what the Republic of Ghana President Nana Akufo-Addo has declared “The Year of the Return.”

It marks the 400th anniversary of when the first enslaved Africans arrived in the United States in 1619.

“Visiting Ghana is an important bridge between the past, present and future,” said Tyner. “You can visit the slave castles in Elmina and Cape Coast, Dr. W.E.B. Dubois Center, and the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum. Each visit will provide renewed hope and restore unwavering perseverance for African-

Americans. This trip will be a unique Sankofa experience of returning home and reclaiming our rich cultural heritage. This is a gift to humanity.”

Registration is being accepted for those that want to participate in the The Year of the Return that will take place June 28 – July 8. During the nine-day experience, individuals will learn about the cultural heritage of Ghana and history of the transatlantic slave trade.

Participants will visit the cities of Accra, Cape Coast and Senchi. Travelers will be able to spend an afternoon at the Cape Coast Castle and learn about slavery from Ebenezer Ayesu, professor, researcher and lecturer at the University of Ghana, take

a canopy walk at Kakum National Park, one of only three such features in Africa, connecting seven tree tops and access to the forest; tour Cape Coast, the first capital of Ghana; relax on the beach and learn to cook the famous jollof rice, a delicacy that continues to fuel the Jollof Rice War. Launched in 2015 by Tyner, the PPGJLI provides a platform for the initiation of social change, cultivation of collective leadership, and promotion of public policy advocacy. The organization’s goal is to challenge 10,000 leaders worldwide to make a difference in their communities.

To learn more about the upcoming trip, go to www. artikatyner.com/ghana.

Dr. Artika Tyner

‘Black Memorabilia’ premieres on PBS’ ‘Independent Lens’

YET THEY PERSIST Celebrating women who change our world SUN, FEB 24, 2019 | 4-6 PM | Orchestra Hall, Minneapolis FEATURING VocalEssence Chorus Spelman College Glee Club VocalEssence Singers Of This Age

San Francisco — “Black Memorabilia,” A PBS documentary, explores the world of racist material, both antique and newly produced, that propagate demeaning representations of African-Americans and promotes white supremacy.

From industrial China to the rural South to Brooklyn, the film shines a light on those who reproduce, consume and reclaim these racially-charged items, from “Jolly Nigger” banks to “Mammy” kitchenware, confederate flags, Nazi insignia and other ephemera.

Produced and directed by Chico Colvard, “Black Memorabilia” premieres on “Independent Lens” Feb. 4, 10 p.m. (CST) on PBS. “I grew up with images of the coon, mammy, buck, sambo, pickaninny, and blackface characters, portrayed in subservient roles and mocking caricatures,” says filmmaker Colvard. “From Uncle Remus and Aunt Jemima at breakfast, to the Little Rascals, Shirley Temple and Bugs Bunny in blackface on Saturday morning TV, to Uncle Ben staring at me from the cupboard – these exaggerated and demeaning representations of African Americans were alien to the hard-working and dignified people I knew.”

At the intersection of international commerce, racial

Black Memorabilia identity, and historical narrative, “Black Memorabilia” explores the meaning of these objects and questions their continued production. The film visits a Chinese factory that manufactures reproductions of racist Black memorabilia and a flea market in Raleigh, N.C., where vendors and consumers gather to buy, sell and trade a variety of racist, confederate and KKK collectibles. From there the film travels to Bedford-Stuyvesant in Brooklyn, where AfricanAmerican artist Alexandria uses racial minstrel show tropes to strip them of their power.

Chico Colvard’s film traces the modern trade of objects that are the physical embodiment

of cultural stigma and the literal objectification of people into racial stereotypes,» said Lois Vossen, “Independent Lens” executive producer. “At times uncomfortable and often unexpected, ‘Black Memorabilia’ is a thought-provoking, stimulating addition to our nation’s ongoing conversations about how we think and talk about race. Chico pushes the boundaries of documentary form as he explores where these objects come from, what they mean to us, why they persist, who profits from them, and how their meaning can be reclaimed.”

The film will be available for online viewing beginning Feb. 5.

NCAA From 3 Former Minneapolis Mayor Sharon Sayles Belton

Congresswoman Ilhan Omar

Council Member Andrea Jenkins

“They persisted. I am able to be here, and I am able to call out things now, because they paved the way.”

—United States Congresswoman Ilhan Omar

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“There are some extraordinary things happening here in North Minneapolis and we need to highlight them,” said Frey.

Minneapolis Parks & Recreation Board Commissioner Kale Severson said the commitment to North Commons warms his heart.

“I feel like they are investing in our community,” said Severson. “And the fact that youth of our community will benefit most means the world to me.”

“There are some extraordinary things happening here in North Minneapolis and we need to highlight them.” -Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey

North Community High School boys’ basketball coach Larry McKenzie said the NCAA’s commitment to North Minneapolis will pay dividends for years to come.

“It’s planting a seed.

We know a lot of kids in our

community can’t participate in (Final Four) events because of costs, so to come here and open themselves up to our community; this investment is major,” said McKenzie, a Minnesota Basketball Hall of Fame coach.

insightnews.com

Insight News • January 21 - January 27, 2019 • Page 7 neapolis 6:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Fitness trainer Jacob Johnson, motivational speaker Jesse Ross and MC Niles perform at this special event with DJ Huh Whut?

Wednesday, Jan. 23 Monday, Jan. 21 – Sunday, Jan. 27 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

HIP-HOP Jarren Benton with Aaron Cohen The Pourhouse 10 5th St. S., Minneapolis 8 p.m.

18-plus $17 advance One half of the production team The Flush and former Funk Volume member Jarren Benton hits The Pourhouse in downtown Minneapolis.

Clear Soul Forces Nomad World Pub 501 Cedar Ave. S., Minneapolis 9:30 p.m. – 2 a.m.

21-plus $10-$12 Detroit’s Clear Soul Forces plays a special performance at the Nomad with St. Paul Slim, DJ SoSupreme, DJ

Francisco, and hosted by Truth Maze.

Saturday, Jan. 26 KITES Kite Festival Lake Harriet 4135 W. Lake Harriet Pkwy., Minneapolis 12 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Art Shanty Projects – think art homes on ice – are featured at this festival of kites.

Take part in bingo, rae’s smores and more.

Sunday, Jan. 27 JAZZ

Lady Day Dakota 1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis 7 p.m. $25-$35 Celebrated singer Thomasina Petrus presents some of the best works of Billie “Lady Day� Holiday at the Dakota.

Thomasina Petrus Sings

DAVE BRUEBECK’S “TIME OUT� WITH

THE RICHARD JOHNSON TRIO Performing the entire album “Time Out�

Monday, Jan. 21

Thursday, Jan. 24

WRITING

GOSPEL/SOUL

“A formidable jazz pianist�

Playwriting I with Josh Tobiessen Guthrie Theater 818 S 2nd St., Minneapolis 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. $150

Sweet Honey in the Rock Dakota 1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis 7 p.m. $50-$70

- Chicago Tribune

Discover the key ingredients of great drama and comedy and work toward creating your own short play in this six-week class with local playwright Josh Tobiessen.

Sweet Honey in the Rock is a performance ensemble rooted in African-American history and culture. This internationally renowned Grammy nominated female a cappella group has a history dating more than four decades.

Tuesday, Jan. 22 MOTIVATION The Time is Now Phoenix Theater 2605 Hennepin Ave., Min-

Friday, Jan. 25 HIP-HOP

A renewed focus: you.

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Your bonus will be deposited into your new consumer checking account within 45 days after eligibility and qualiďŹ cations are met.

Find a branch near you: wellsfargo.com/locator *Important things to know about this offer: Checking and Savings Bonus Eligibility: Only certain consumer checking accounts, including non-interest earning checking accounts, are eligible for this offer. Teen Checking,SM GreenhouseSM accounts, and the prepaid Wells Fargo EasyPayÂŽ Card are not eligible for this offer. All consumer savings accounts are eligible for this offer, excluding Time Accounts (CDs). This is an exclusive, non-transferable offer. A valid bonus offer code will be provided to each customer while meeting with a banker.

You are not eligible for this offer if: you are a current owner of a Wells Fargo consumer checking account, you are a Wells Fargo team member, or you have received a bonus for opening a Wells Fargo consumer checking account or savings account within the past 12 months. Offer is only available to customers in the following states: MN, MT, ND, SD, WI. Bonus Qualifications: To receive a $500 bonus: 1. Open a new, eligible consumer checking account with a minimum opening deposit of $25 by March 22, 2019. All account applications are subject to approval. Within 150 days of account opening, receive a cumulative monthly total of $500 in qualifying direct deposits to the checking account opened for this bonus offer for three consecutive months. During this time, your new account balance must be $1 or more. A qualifying direct deposit is the customer’s salary, pension, Social Security, or other regular monthly income, electronically deposited through the Automated Clearing House (ACH) network by your employer or an outside agency. Non-qualifying direct deposits for purposes of this offer include transfers from one account to another (for example, transfers between your own accounts, or person-to-person transfers using a transfer service such as ZelleŽ**), or deposits made at a branch or ATM, or through mobile deposit. AND 2. Open a new, eligible savings account with a minimum opening deposit of $25 by March 22, 2019. All account applications are subject to approval. Within 10 days of account opening, deposit at least $25,000 in new money into either the new checking or new savings account, and maintain a minimum combined balance of at least $25,000 total in your new checking and/or savings account(s) for 90 days. New money is defined as new deposits to the eligible accounts from sources outside of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., or its affiliates. Due to the new money requirement, accounts may only be opened at your local branch. Bonus Payment: We will deposit the bonus into your new checking account within 45 days after meeting all offer requirements.

The new checking account must remain open in order to receive any earned bonus payments. You are responsible for any federal, state, or local taxes due on the bonus and we will report as income to the tax authorities if required by applicable law. Consult your tax advisor. Additional Important Information: Checking and savings accounts are subject to monthly service fees; please refer to the Consumer Account Fee and Information Schedule (available at www.wellsfargo.com/onlinebanking/consumer-account-fees) or speak to a banker for more details. The consumer savings accounts eligible for this offer are interest-bearing accounts with variable interest rates (which vary by account). For example, Wells Fargo Way2SaveÂŽ Savings pays an Annual Percentage Yield (APY) of 0.01% on all balances and requires a minimum opening deposit of $25.

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Page 8 • January 21 - January 27, 2019 • Insight News

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iLLism

iLLism ‘Illuminates’ on duo’s new album

By Toki Wright Frontrunners of the new Minneapolis Sound, hip-hop group iLLism (www.illismmusic. com) returns with a new album, “Illuminate.”

The new 15-track sophomore release follows up 2017’s “Love and Loyalty” album. The married duo of soul singer Fancy and rapper Envy balance R&B grooves with introspective bars and soulful beats.

The group describes the new album as “a reflection of their personal and musical journeys … evok(ing) passion and emotions that listeners all over the globe can connect with.”

Standout cuts include “Outta My Head” where Envy raps, “it ain’t good to feel weak in the place I grew up, where the men here are taught to be tough.” Fancy later sings, “I have a tendency to overthink things, that destroys all the good in me.” The song touches on the anxieties of personal growth from a male and female perspective.

The production on the album is a step in the right direction building off of the momentum of past projects. “Illuminate” blends live elements with traditional hip-hop studio production. Producers Blu Majic, Dope Boyz, Dreamlife, Illuid Haller and Tone Jonez join the iLLism band in shaping their signature sound.

THE STORY OF A DREAM. PASS IT ON.

In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we remember to continue the legacy of those who stood for something. Learn more at aarp.org/blackcommunity.

A perfect example of this is “Who You Loving” with the dreamy saxophone accompaniment of Willie Moore.

Illism has accomplished a lot in the past few years including being a top three finalists in Paisley Park’s Battle of the Bands, performances at Super Bowl Live and NPR’s Tiny Desk, and charting on the North American College and Community Radio chart and coming in at No. 34 on The Current’s Top 89 local of 2017.

The duo says, “this album is using full music form. It’s our blood, sweat, tears and heartbeats. That’s how special it is. It’s therapeutic. It’s a release. It’s a celebration.”