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Insight News

June 13 - June 19, 2016

Vol. 43 No. 24 • The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com

Muhammad Ali remembered as ‘The Greatest’, a ‘true American hero’

By Stacy M. Brown The Washington Informer Muhammad Ali’s historic win against George Foreman in Kinshasa, Zaire in 1974 was perhaps the greatest of all of his ring victories.

Ali dropped Foreman in the eighth round of that heavyweight bout known as “The Rumble in the Jungle.” Foreman was among the first to pay homage to the fallen champion when news of his death spread late Friday evening on June 3. He was 74.

“It’s been said it was ‘ropea-dope,’ Ali beat me with,” tweeted Foreman. “No, (it was) his beauty that beat me.”

Early Saturday morning, Mike Tyson tweeted, “God came for his champion. So long great one.”

After a long battle with Parkinson’s disease, the worldrenowned champion died at a Phoenix area hospital. The iconic sports figure was fighting respiratory issues that were complicated by the Parkinson’s that he was diagnosed with in the 1980s, the Associated Press reported. Ali had been hospitalized several times in recent years.

Boxing great and former world champion Sugar Ray Leonard, said that he woke up

Library of Congress/ Creative Commons

Muhammad Ali photographed in 1967.

Saturday morning with a tear streaming down his cheek. In a statement, Leonard said that he admired, idolized and loved Ali. “My true feelings have not totally surfaced yet, because no one beats Muhammad Ali. So to continue his journey I will thank God for bringing this incredible man into my life,” said Leonard.

In a press statement, Ali’s family said his funeral would be held in his hometown of Louisville. Ali’s family also thanked the public for the outpouring of support.

Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff in Ali’s honor.

“The values of hard work, conviction and compassion that Muhammad Ali developed while growing up in Louisville helped him become a global icon,” said Fischer in statement released on Twitter. “As a boxer, he became ‘The Greatest,’ though his most lasting victories happened outside the ring. Muhammad leveraged his fame as a platform to promote peace, justice and humanitarian efforts around the world, while always keeping strong ties to his hometown.”

President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama also paid tribute to Ali.

ALI TURN TO 3

Harry Colbert, Jr.

Looking back; moving forward Insight News’ managing editor shares vision for publication’s growth

By Harry Colbert, Jr. Managing Editor As I take in the surroundings of my new office inside the Marcus Garvey House – home to McFarlane Media and Insight News – I oftentimes find myself staring at the walls in awe.

Aside from the ornately beautiful African art, one of the walls are adorned with what I feel is priceless memorabilia – past issues of Insight News. Staring back at me is more than 40 years of history. It’s the history of the company, but more importantly, it’s the history of the community.

INSIGHT TURN TO 3

Historic investments to address racial and economic disparities signed into law

Ed Graff, MPS superintendent

Minneapolis school board approves Ed Graff contract The Minneapolis Board of Education voted unanimously to approve a superintendent contract with Ed Graff.

Approving a contract was the final step in MPS’ search for a new superintendent.

Graff replaces interim superintendent Michael Goar who ran the district for nearly 18 months following the resignation of Bernadeia

GRAFF TURN TO 7

Senate Equity Subcommittee co-chairs and Sen. Bobby Joe Champion (DFL-Minneapolis) and Deputy Majority Leader Sen. Jeff Hayden (DFLMinneapolis) applauded Gov. Mark Dayton’s signing of the omnibus supplemental budget bill.

The governor’s signature made official investments secured by Hayden and Champion, which will begin to address Minnesota’s racial and economic disparities.

“Throughout this session, there was a prevailing concern that despite all the incredible energy and support from the community driving the conversation for these investments, that Republicans would try to kill our proposals to address disparities,” said Hayden. “While Republicans don’t share the same urgency around disparities, I am very pleased that in negotiations the governor and DFL Senate were able to not just secure one-time funding, but also secure on-going investments for programs to bring opportunity to Minnesotans of color who are struggling.”

“Beginning the end of these economic disparities was a major priority this session for members of the Subcommittee on Equity,” said Champion.

“While there’s still work to do, we’re off to a good start through what we’ve achieved this session – passing legislation

Department of Education Scott, Conyers speak on new civil rights data

PAGE 3

Representative Tony Cornish (R-23B)

A lesson for State Rep. Tony Cornish Senator Bobby Joe Champion (DFL-59) that will create jobs, strengthen businesses, help families find homes, provide educational programs and more. The work completed this session is a first step in creating a state where everyone has the opportunity to achieve and succeed. And thanks to the hard work of many, we’re on our way there.”

The Equity subcommittee’s recommendations for funding were included as a funding article in the larger omnibus supplemental budget bill totaling $35 million in one-time funding and $17.5 million each

Senator Jeff Hayden (DFL-62)

year in on-going funding. This investment has been called the largest, one-time infusion of funding for programs aimed at addressing Minnesota’s disparities.

“I want to thank the passionate and impactful organizers and community that rose up to support these initiatives and fought for their final passage,” said Hayden.

“Having the vocal and present support of my constituents and those who are living this struggle at the Capitol allowed us to be successful in the negotiations.

To those of you who may think that your government doesn’t hear you or doesn’t see you, know that this funding is because people showed up and were heard by their elected leaders.”

In total 26 organizations and programs are funded through the Equity Article. In addition, the Agriculture Article and the Education Article of the bill also fund programs dedicated to eliminating drivers of Minnesota’s persistent disparities.

Editorial by Harry Colbert, Jr. Managing Editor Normally a reader-submitted letter to another newspaper would never get ink in Insight News, but when that letter flows with coded racist undertones and is penned by a high-ranking elected official; well, we’ll make an exception.

And quite frankly State Rep. Tony Cornish, we take exception.

This past Wednesday (June 8), for reasons we find inexplicable, Cornish, a Republican representative from Vernon Center – a bustling town of 326

CORNISH TURN TO 3

Closing the gap

2016 Graduates

Community

New report sheds light on promising ways to close the achievement gap

We salute you

Open Streets Minneapolis kicks off sixth season

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Page 2 • June 13 - June 19, 2016 • Insight News

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Insight News • June 13 - June 19, 2016 • Page 3

Scott, Conyers speak on new civil rights data from Department of Education WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) unveiled new data from the 2013-2014 school year showing gaps that remain in educational equity and opportunity for students.

Education and the Workforce Committee Ranking Member Rep. Bobby Scott (Va.) and Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Rep. John Conyers, Jr. (Mich.) said the

Insight From 1 When Prince performed his first concert at the Capri Theatre,

INSIGHT NEWS www.insightnews.com

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

Editor-In-Chief Al McFarlane Publisher Batala-Ra McFarlane Assistant to the Publisher Shumira Cunningham Associate Editor & Associate Publisher B.P. Ford Managing Editor Harry Colbert, Jr. Associate Editor Afrodescendientes Carmen Robles Associate Editor Nigeria & West Africa Chief Folarin Ero-Phillips Associate Editor Culture and Education Dr. Irma McClaurin Associate Editor Leadership and Social Enterprise Dr. Anita Davis-DeFoe 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 Melvin Carter, Jr. Julie Desmond Fred Easter Timothy Houston Penny Jones-Richardson Alaina L. Lewis Michelle Mitchum Darren Moore Carmen Robles Artika Tyner Toki Wright Photography 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.

Representative Bobby Scott

Representative John Conyers

Insight News was there. When Minneapolis elected its first Black mayor, Insight News was there.

When Kirby Puckett led the Twins to victory in the World Series, Insight News was there. When Keith Ellison was making history by becoming Rep. Keith Ellison – the first Muslim elected to the U.S. House, Insight News was there. When the Riverview, South Beach, Quest and Glam Slam were “the spots,” Insight News was there. When this nation elected its first Black president, Insight News was there. More recently, when a broad and diverse coalition took to the streets to declare that police brutality perpetrated on people of color would no longer be tolerated and that “Black lives matter,” Insight News was there.

Insight News has established itself as a revered and respected voice of the community and in doing so has become the largest community newspaper in the state.

With that understanding I treat my appointment as the publication’s new managing editor with the utmost respect for the groundwork that has already been laid. I truly stand on the backs of giants.

It is with that understanding and reverence of past excellence that I am charged in driving Insight News forward.

New and exciting change for Insight News is coming. With that being said, to our legacy or longtime readers, understand that we have not, nor will we ever, abandon coverage of the issues that are of most importance to the African-American community.

Insight News was founded to give voice to a community that has historically been marginalized, demonized and underserved. It is with great honor that we serve our community. That service will never end.

With the wonderfully changing demographics of the Twin Cities,

Insight News’ role is as vital as it has ever been. Within the Black community we are growing with transplants from other cities. I am one of those transplants. We are also growing in population and strength within our Somali, Liberian, Ethiopian, Eritrean, Nigerian and other communities of the African diaspora. Also, with the expanding diversity of the area, we recognize the many commonalities we have with our Latino, Asian, and Native brothers and sisters. We also recognize the differences and need for positive dialogue.

To continue our mission and to be of best service to the community we have to embrace change. Part of that change is recognizing the impact of social media and maintaining an adaptive digital presence. In the coming days and weeks, online readers and followers of Insight News will notice a dramatic increase in postings to our social media pages. We are also in the process of relaunching our website, www. insightnews.com. The new site will soon offer daily content in addition to the weekly content that mirrors our weekly print publication. We’re expanding our arts and sports coverage, while maintaining our commitment to news and community happenings.

Once complete, our site will rival any news outlet for content and appearance. It will be a site that like our print publication already, we’ll all be proud to call ours. I’m honored to be one of the drivers of this new change.

Many years down the road when someone comes behind me, it is my hope that one day they’ll look at the wall, see a paper from 2016 and feel the same sense of awe that I feel every day when I come into the office.

For me, the work starts now.

Ali

the world how a true champion can stand with courage, selfrespect, and dignity. Muhammad Ali made a considerable impact on the world and his spirit and his work will live on for generations to come. On behalf of the Congressional Black Caucus, we send our deepest condolences to his family, and we mourn the loss of a true American hero.”

The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) also released a statement mourning Ali. “We extend to the Ali family our heartfelt condolences.

Representing the Black Press in America and throughout the world, the NNPA affirms Muhammad Ali’s outstanding world-class achievement, leadership and courage in boxing, human rights and philanthropy,” said NNPA President Dr. Benjamin Chavis.

From 1 “Like everyone else on the planet, Michelle and I mourn his passing,” said Barack Obama in a statement. The president said he keeps a pair of Ali’s gloves on display in his White House study. “But, we’re grateful to God for how fortunate we are to have known him, if just for a while; for how fortunate we all area that ‘The Greatest’ chose to grace our time.”

“Muhammad Ali was not only a champion in the boxing ring, but he was a champion of human and civil rights,” said G. K. Butterfield, the chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus. “During a difficult time in American history he stood on principle to end racism and bigotry. In doing so, Ali showed

Cornish From 1 (give or take a person or two) – decided to put fingers to keyboard and opine on “what we (people of color) can do to reduce the use of force by police,” a most legitimate question being posed with the almost routine abuses of power and excessive force at the hands of law enforcement. In his letter to the Star Tribune good ol’ Mr. Cornish, who is a former deputy sheriff, offered up some “sage” advice. While he bulleted (cops love their bullets) a list of dos and don’ts, I’ll sum it up without the bullets. Heaven knows we don’t need any more bullets flying around.

In a nutshell Cornish’s “advice” … Negroes, stay in your place.

To hell with your rights, those don’t apply. Now to be fair, Cornish didn’t say Negroes. Instead he used the neocon’s favorite code word, thug.

See, in Cornish’s ill-informed mind anyone ruffed up by police is a criminal by default. Damn the millions of dollars state police departments are forking out in either settled or lost law suits demonstrating a pattern of police violence. According to our friend from Vernon Center, the victims deserved their brutal beatings.

Jamar Clark got what was coming to him.

And though most of us who don’t for one second buy the police narrative in the Clark killing,

in the letter, Cornish offered no explanation for the killings of citizens such as 12-year-old … let’s say that again … 12-yearold Tamir Rice or John Crawford, III who undisputedly had broken absolutely no laws when they were gunned down by police. Cornish had no good reason to justify the arrest and later, death of Sandra Bland.

Oh wait, that’s right; Bland caused her own death because as Cornish put it, she should have known her place and known “don’t flap your jaws when the police arrive.”

When will you Negroes learn to not question The Man? America was such a wonderful country when folks knew their place. Now people have the nerve to believe they are afforded rights and stuff.

Quit thinking freedom of speech applies. Hell, quit thinking about freedom altogether.

Funny thing is the representative admits in the letter that his own “grandpa” … um, “served time in Stillwater State Prison.” That’s his polite way of saying grandpa was a criminal – dare I say thug. Wonder if “Grandpa” deserved to have been beaten or even killed by law enforcement – possibly wiping out the possibility for Cornish to have been spawned?

See, there will be no grandchildren for Tamir Rice.

None for Sandra Bland either. They were not afforded the opportunity to bring forth life. Then again, maybe that’s exactly how Rep. Tony Cornish wants it.

new data is disturbing, but should not come as a shock.

“The report released from the Department of Education is a disturbing reminder of what too many families already know, and what was confirmed in the report from the General Accountability Office (GAO) we unveiled last month,” said Scott and Conyers in a joint statement. “Our nation’s increasingly diverse student population is too often hyper-

segregated in K-12 public schools and, sadly, educational opportunity is not available to all students of color on equal terms. This new data, and GAO’s study, are a call to action.”

The two have introduced a bill that would amend Title VI of the Civil Rights Act to allow individuals to bring suits against school districts that implement practices and policies that have disparate

impact based on race, color or nationality.

“We must honor our obligation to fulfil the promise of Brown v. Board of Education and seize the opportunity presented by the Every Student Succeeds Act to take meaningful and deliberate action – supported by the Federal government – to level the playing field in public K-12 schools,” read the joint statement.

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New report sheds light on promising ways to close the achievement gap In a state with the highest racial disparities in the nation, a group of North Minneapolis nonprofits and schools is making strides in developing best practices to close the achievement gap.

The Northside Achievement Zone (NAZ) collaborative is demonstrating success in preparing children for kindergarten and in increasing reading proficiency, according to data collected and analyzed

by Wilder Research.

The data shows a path to closing the gaps in achievement between white children and children of color. For example, the research cites that a multilayered approach, where NAZ children are enrolled in early learning programs and whose parents participate in parenting classes, are more than twoand-a-half times more likely to be ready for kindergarten than North Minneapolis children who do not participate in NAZ. Wilder measures the progress of children and families enrolled in NAZ on a regular basis to ensure that programs are effective and meeting objectives.

“The data show us what is working and where improvement

Sondra Samuels is needed,” said Sondra Samuels, NAZ president and CEO. “For example, the report shows that NAZ students do better in schools that deeply embed and integrate NAZ supports. We know that schools can’t close the achievement gap alone. NAZ works with teachers to identify children who are furthest behind, and surrounds the student’s family with a team of support that includes everything from extra academic opportunities, to parent education, to behavioral health counseling, to housing.”

Though the gap still exists, NAZ is seeing measureable progress.

“Wilder tells us this approach is working, especially to improve reading performance.

The achievement gap is far from closed, but we are beginning to turn the corner,” said Samuels.

While Wilder reports clear progress for NAZ children in reading, math is a different matter. There, the results are mixed.

“We are in discussion with partners around promising strategies to address this challenge,” said Samuels.

“What we know – and what all the research confirms – is that

proficiency by third grade is as important in math as it is in reading. If children don’t learn fractions by the third grade, they are likely to never be proficient in math without significant intervention.”

The data in this report reflects performance during the 2014-2015 school year, when NAZ was still in the process of growing the organization’s capacity to full scale.

NAZ Chief Operating

Officer Michelle Martin said, “After two school years of implementation as Promise Neighborhood, this data shows strong indications that our collaborative approach is working. As the 43 NAZ partner organizations work together through our continuous improvement process, our work together gets better and better.

There is much work ahead to reach our long-term goals. Each Wilder Report is an accelerant

for our future outcomes. We are confident our success will grow with each school year.”

This spring, NAZ and their partner schools began working with former Minneapolis Public Schools Superintendent Bernadeia Johnson, who is acting as a NAZ consultant.

Their collaborative focus is to maximize current academic successes and improve results.

“North Minneapolis is a place very near to my heart, and this role offers me the chance to partner with Northsiders in a meaningful way. It’s an exciting time for me,” said Johnson.

“I’m very hopeful about the future,” said Samuels.

“We’re seeing proof that the achievement gap is actually an opportunity gap. It’s not a failing on the part of our children. When children are given opportunities, they do amazing things. In North Minneapolis and throughout the state, we severely lack a level playing field. Our lowincome children of color face an educational opportunity gap that is unhealthy for the future of our state. Together we are getting better at creating the opportunities they need most.”

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Insight News • June 13 - June 19, 2016 • Page 5

HEALTH June is Men’s Health Awareness Month We are losing far too many Black men due to preventable causes.

That’s the premise behind an upcoming event designed to encourage healthy eating and a healthier lifestyle for Black men.

Eat Well, Feel Well, Live Well: Helping Men Understand the Importance and Health Benefits of Clean Eating is being presented by Caroline Carter, a certified raw vegan chef. She plans to demonstrate to men how to create and prepare a meal that will please the palate, nourish the body and cleanse the gut for a leaner, stronger and healthier

soul. Along with Carter is her special guest sous chef, Walter “Q Bear” Banks of KMOJ. Banks has been open about his health issues and recently his radio counterpart, Samuel “Big Sam” Williams was hospitalized after suffering a stroke. Williams returned to the air this past week.

The healthy eating event takes place Sunday, June 26 at 3 p.m. at Seward Community Co-op, 317 East 38th St., Minneapolis.

During the event Carter will teach how to define clean foods, identify and shop for clean foods

and how to prepare a variety of healthy dining options. Tickets for the event are $30 and available at www.eventbrite. com/e/using-real-food-to-helpmen-eat-well-feel-well-andlive-well-tickets-25845660065.

Carter is the creator of “Cooking Raw,” a weekly television program that aired on Milwaukee Public Television.

She co-authored with her daughter, Shenita Ray, “A Mother and Daughter Diary of Raw Food Recipes for Beginners.”

June is Men’s Health Awareness Month.

Tackling dementia, with support and humor

By Deb Taylor, CEO of Senior Community Services Lynn’s mother, Edna, developed dementia in her 70s. An early clue was when Edna placed her electric rice cooker on the stovetop burner and turned the burner on high. The plastic in the rice cooker quickly melted producing strong, noxious fumes. Thankfully, Edna was able to turn the stove off at that point in her disease.

Later, Lynn noticed her mother using a toothbrush to comb her hair; they had a good laugh about it and moved forward.

Edna’s symptoms grew more pronounced. Unable to self-manage, she would forget to eat, wear the same clothing for a few days, and was often found sitting in her dark apartment, unable to fathom what she should do next. Lynn, a very devoted caregiver, was unable to maintain the frequency of visits her mother required.

Volunteers and friends helped,

but more care was needed.

Edna was moved to a wonderful group home that specializes in the 24/7 care of older adults with dementia. She is happy and more content as the devoted staff keeps her engaged in interesting and fun activities.

We believe nearly 100,000 Minnesota seniors are living with Alzheimer’s disease, just one of many forms of dementia. Dementia leaves affected adults increasingly incapable of self-managing their lives. They have trouble with everyday functions like bathing and food preparation. Their speech is affected as they grow increasingly unable to find the proper words to communicate.

Memories fade, and they’re easily confused and may act in unsafe ways.

Humor Helps On a personal level, my Mom has stage six (of seven) Alzheimer’s and my Dad is her primary caregiver. Married 55 years, they still enjoy living in their home.

Long ago, Dad decided to face

the caregiving challenges with humor, resilience and optimism.

Earlier in their marriage, Dad never cooked. Now, he does all of the meal preparation. At each milestone along the way of this challenging journey, Dad has adapted and achieved. We’re so proud of him. And we do all we can, of course, to support Mom and Dad to make their heartfelt desire for independence continue to work.

Across town, Jon provides caregiving for his elderly mother at home. He finds great value in the Senior Community Services’ Caregiver Support Group that meets regularly at the local senior center. “The group has helped reduce my anxiety and the energy drain I often feel as a constant caregiver,” Jon said.

“And it helps to hear how other caregivers deal with similar challenges.”

Like my Dad, Jon’s able to maintain his sense of humor to help him deal with the stress and challenges of each day so he can face tomorrow. “Things can always get worse, and

with caregiving, they often do, sometimes slowly, sometimes quickly, and not always in the way you anticipated,” Jon adds.

“So you have to keep perspective and see the humor in those daily moments.”

Research has found that people who maintain a positive attitude and seek ways to live more vitally, are less prone to depression and other ailments.

Humor brings some sunshine into those most challenging and darkest moments.

“If life isn’t going the best, break into song,” Jon advises.

“Learn how to cope and get the help you need so you can face this giant in your life.”

Good prescriptions for how to Reimagine Aging.

Deb Taylor is CEO of Senior Community Services (www. seniorcommunity.org) and its Reimagine Aging Institute, a nonprofit that advocates for older adults and helps seniors and caregivers maintain their independence through free or low-cost services.

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Page 6 • June 13 - June 19, 2016 • Insight News

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2016 G RADUATES

“God and nature first made us what we are, and then out of our own created genius we make ourselves what we want to be. Follow always that great law. Let the sky and God be our limit and eternity our measurement.”

– Marcus Garvey To the graduates of 2016 – be it elementary, secondary or post-secondary – Insight News revels in your wonderful accomplishments and wishes you continued successes throughout your educational endeavors and within your personal and professional lives.

We salute you.

Alexis “Lexi” Tieh Boyd High School Graduate Irondale High School

Cortez Martin High School Graduate Thomas Jefferson High School

Brooklyn Boyd Kindergarten Graduate Sunnyside at Pike Lake Center

Jachai McNeal High School Graduate Cooper High School

Micah Janssens High School Graduate South High School

Dr. Sousada Chidthachack Hooded at the University of Minnesota

Ja’Vahn Jones High School Graduate Blake School

Monico Real High School Graduate Irondale High School

Ciara N. Royston College Graduate Mankato State University

Kennedy Rabb Preschool Graduate La Creche

Julian Evans and Remir Wilson High School Graduates Fair School

Ronnie Cartlidge Jr. 5th Grade Graduate Poplar Bridge School in Bloomington

Kamia Johnson-Newell Kindergarten Graduate Minnehaha Academy

Congratulations Class of 2016 - PYC Arts & Technology High School!

Sierra McLaughlin Minnesota Internship Center

TaQuan Chatman High School Graduate Holy Angels

Tai Turnbough High School Graduate Irondale High School

Terrance Frelix Jr. High School Graduate Henry High School

Royon Mack High School Graduate Henry Sibley High School

Raeme Cheatham High School Graduate Richfield High School

Row 1 from left to right: T’Nayia Davis, Ashley Brown, Gatazha Hodge, Leann Exum, Cierra Collins Row 2: Tayshauna Mosby, Amani Wagner, Alysha Washington, Sironta Solomon, Khazzmine Berry, Dariel Lipscomb, Da’Kresha Stewart Row 3: Lupita Hernandez-Hernandez, Jan’Qwes Tivis, Alvontae Dillard-Turner, Cortez Duckett, De’Monta Harris Row 4: Tyler Lynam, Dayshawn Porter, Cleotha Jones, Davion Kensey, Eodis Gibson III, Martice Clark, Ha Vue Back Row: La’Nica McKinnie, Deja Cole, Antoine Daniels, Jr. Not pictured: Talon Benavides Jamilla Burnett Tou Chang Jonathan Chue

Kelly Do Carlos Espinoza Elizabeth Eubanks Brian Guillen-Barrera

Ilhan Hashi Darsherria Hatcher Pachi Her Yesenia Johnson

Lanick Knight Ching Kue Dejia McCoy Jazmen McRaven

Safia Mohamed Cherry Vue Shad’ysha Washington

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Insight News • June 13 - June 19, 2016 • Page 7

BUSINESS How to be a confident nonprofit solicitor FUNdraising Good Times

By Mel and Pearl Shaw Part two of a two part series Fear of heights. Fear of snakes.

Fear of asking someone to give to a nonprofit organization.

While we can’t help with the first two, we can provide suggestions for overcoming fear of soliciting.

Personally asking someone to make a gift to a nonprofit you believe in is one of the most valuable things you can do. For some this is done with comfort, ease and joy. For others there is a twinge of fear, or maybe a silent scream of terror. Our words of advice: don’t let your fear hold you back. You can become one of the previously reluctant solicitors who now rejoice after a successful solicitation. It is truly a great feeling to know you are helping others give to a cause that you and they believe in.

While some people will make a meaningful gift to a nonprofit they haven’t had

Graff From 1 Johnson. Goar was up for the permanent job and was a pen stroke away from having the interim tag dropped but community activists disrupted the process and called for the school board to reopen the search process. This was after a nationwide search resulted in the offering and then rescinding of the offer to Sergio Paez. Paez’ selection was immediately derailed

personal contact with, many who give a major gift do so because they were asked. In fact those who have the capacity to make a major gift often expect to be asked. “We would have given more, but we were never asked,” is something we have heard from more than a few donors and funders over the years. People want to be asked, and it is an honor to make the ask. That is the solicitor’s responsibility.

If you haven’t personally solicited a gift before, here are a few non-technical things to contemplate before doing so.

1. How do you feel about money in general? Is it the root of all evil? A medium of exchange? A way of expressing your values?

2. How do you feel when people ask you for money?

3. How do you feel about asking someone else for money?

4. Were you raised to not talk about money?

5. Do you feel it is impolite to ask for a specific amount?

6. Would you feel that you were bragging if you mentioned your philanthropy when asking someone else to give?

Mull these over before talking with others. Doing so can

when allegations of abuse at his former Boston school district came to light.

This time around MPS board members say they got it right.

“On behalf of the entire board, I’d like to thank everyone — our families, community members, staff, and all those who shared their thoughts — for their efforts to help us find the best superintendent for our district,” said Board Chair Jenny Arneson. “We look forward to welcoming Superintendent Graff to Minneapolis and standing behind him as our new leader.”

uncover the source of your reluctance to solicit, and help make you feel more comfortable talking about money.

Here are three technical things to remember. First, before you can ask anyone else to give, you need to make your own gift. If you are soliciting a major gift you need to have made a major gift. Second, take the time to participate in a gift solicitation that someone else is coordinating. Be prepared to play a secondary role, and observe how the more experienced solicitor makes the ask. Third, ask the development staff person to coordinate a role-playing session so that you and others can experience asking and being asked. Role playing can help you become comfortable and help prepare you for the unexpected.

Remember, fundraising is part of life so it is rare that things go exactly as planned!

For more details download our free online tool at s a a d a n d s h a w. c o m / h o w - t o solicit-a-gift/.

The Gig That Started It All.

Copyright 2016 – Mel and Pearl Shaw For help growing your fundraising visit www. saadandshaw.com or call (901) 522-8727.

Superintendent Graff said he is ready to hit the ground running.

“I’m very excited to have finalized a contract, and I look forward to visiting Minneapolis next week to learn more about the district and the community,” said Graff. “My job is to make sure MPS provides a foundation for every student to achieve their dreams, and I can’t wait to get to work.”

Graff will officially start as the new superintendent of Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) at the beginning of July.

Photo: Greg Helgeson

Be @ the Capri www.thecapritheater.org 2027 West Broadway Minneapolis 55411

Page 8 • June 13 - June 19, 2016 • Insight News

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Insight News • June 13 - June 19, 2016 • Page 9

COMMUNITY Open Streets Minneapolis kicks off sixth season This season’s first Open Streets Minneapolis event took place on Lyndale Avenue South this past Sunday (June 5).

This year, Open Streets has eight events, giving residents, families and neighbors opportunities to walk, bike, skate, have fun and shop in a safe, car-free environment.

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

There will be seven more Open Streets Minneapolis

Open Streets Nicollet

events on different dates throughout the summer, including upcoming events in Downtown (July 10), East Lake (July 24), Northeast (Aug. 7), Franklin (Aug. 21), West Broadway (Sept. 10), Nicollet (Sept. 18) and University of Minnesota (Oct. 1).

The first Open Streets Minneapolis event took place on Lyndale Avenue South six years ago and drew more than 5,000 participants. According to organizers, since then, the number of events has grown each year and are now attended annually, in total, by tens of thousands of pedestrians, bicyclists, skateboarders and wheelchair users.

Open Streets Minneapolis is a City event hosted by the Minneapolis Bicycle Coalition and presented by the Center for Prevention at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota. Sponsors of this year’s events include Metro Transit, the University of Minnesota, the Minneapolis Downtown Council, North Memorial Health Care, Meet Minneapolis, Xcel Energy, KFAI Radio, and AARP Twin Cities.

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

Interfaith community meals for neighbors during Ramadan As Muslims take part in the month of Ramadan (June 6 – July 5), mosques and Islamic community centers throughout the metro area and as far away as Rochester are extending an invitation to their non-Muslim neighbors for a traditional Ramadan Iftar – (a fast-breaking meal).

During the evening participants will be able to learn about Islam, witness Muslim prayer and share food and conversation.

Ramadan is the month on the Islamic lunar calendar during which Muslims abstain from food and drink from sunup to sundown. The fast is performed

to learn discipline, self-restraint and generosity. Fasting during Ramadan is one of the “five pillars” of Islam. Each day the fast is broken at sundown with a meal called Iftar.

Taking Heart has been bringing Muslims and nonMuslims together for food and conversation for six years.

PCYC announces free Summer Food Service Program sites Plymouth Christian Youth Center (PCYC) is participating in the Summer Food Service Program.

Meals that meet nutritional standards established by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will be provided to all children without charge. Sites include PCYC, 2210 Oliver Ave. N., June 13 – Aug. 12,

(breakfast, 9 a.m. – 9:30 a.m., lunch, noon – 1 p.m.); PCYC, 2021 W. Broadway Ave., June 20 – Aug. 12, (breakfast, 9 a.m.

– 9:30 a.m., lunch, noon – 1 p.m.); Capri Theater, 2027 W. Broadway Ave., (for registered students only), July 11 – Aug. 12, (breakfast, 9 a.m. – 9:30 a.m., lunch, 12:30 p.m. – 1 p.m.) and Cleveland Park, 3232 Queen

Ave. N., June 20 – Aug. 12, (breakfast, 10 a.m. – 10:30 a.m., lunch, 1 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.)

All sites are located in North Minneapolis and programs run Monday – Friday. For more information contact Catrice O’Neal at (612) 643-2026 or coneal@pcyc-mpls.org.

HALLIE Q. BROWN COMMUNITY CENTER

“Last year nearly 700 community members participated in Taking Heart during Ramadan. Our hope is that many more people will join us this year for an Iftar dinner,

There are more tech jobs than tech workers in the metro.

especially those who have never had the opportunity,” said the Rev. Cynthia Bronson Sweigert, who coordinates the program for the Minnesota Council of Churches.

These events are free and open to the public but registration is required. Information and registration materials can be found at bit.ly/takingheart.

Are you ready for a career in tech?

Minneapolis Saint Paul TechHire prepares you for a job in tech with accelerated training online or in the classroom.

Learn more at www.msptechhire.org

For reasonable accommodations or alternative formats please contact 612-673-5001.

People who are deaf or hard of hearing can use a relay service to call 311 at 612-673-3000.

TTY users call 612-673-2157 or 612-673-2626.

Para asistencia 612-673-2700 - Rau kev pab 612-673-2800.

Hadii aad Caawimaad u baahantahay 612-673-3500.

Basic Needs * Children * Seniors History * Heritage * Community Space Programs Food Shelf Clothing Closet Senior Programs Early Learning Center Youth Enrichment Program

"U dreamed of a world of never ending happiness where U can always see the sun, day or night.

We work to help everyone have that world.

We will never forget you."

Donate - Volunteer - Participate NOW HIRING for Early Learning Center teachers 270 N. Kent Street St. Paul, MN 55102 651-224-4601

www.hallieqbrown.org

Thursday, June 30, 2016 5:30 pm • Social Hour | 6:30 pm • Dinner Program

$90 per Ticket | $1,000 per Table Hilton Minneapolis | 1001 Marquette Avenue | Minneapolis, MN 55403

Page 10 • June 13 - June 19, 2016 • Insight News

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Photo: Lester Cohen

‘Dave Chappelle’s Juke Joint’ was party for the ages

By Harry Colbert, Jr. Managing Editor Who said Minnesotans don’t party on a Monday night?

Dave Chappelle celebrated Prince’s birthday in royal fashion June 6 at Aria with a star-studded party and concert. The comedian and close friend to Prince hosted the event that lasted into the early morning hours of June 7 – Prince’s actual birthday – billed as “Dave Chappelle’s

Juke Joint.” As the clock struck midnight Chappelle stopped the music to say happy birthday to Prince, who would have celebrated his 58th birthday if not for his untimely passing on April 21.

Advertised entertainment was harmonica player extraordinaire Frederic Yonnet and the Band with No Name and notable hip-hop DJ, D-Nice, but the select crowd of about 300 was treated to a bonus when “sons of Prince,” Mint Condition took to the stage

for a surprise performance.

The performance – a mix of Mint classics and Prince covers – was closed out with an impromptu jam session to Prince’s “She’s Always in My Hair” that included cameos by Brother Ali, Jamecia Bennett, Yonnet, members of the NPG Horns and MPLS’ David Billingsley on organ. That jam session led to another with Yonnet and the band soloing out to a funky, bluesy version of “Otis.” Chappelle also joined in on vocals.

While the surprise of the night was Mint Condition, the shock of the night was Yonnet. Calling the musician who has played with Prince, Stevie Wonder, Ed Sheeran and more just a harmonica player is thoroughly inadequate. Between the lips of Yonnet the harmonica, fueled by his lungs, was a full brass and rhythm section encapsulated in about three inches of metal.

Chappelle’s Monday night party that lasted until nearly 3 a.m. brought out an

eclectic crowd that included such notables as Minneapolis NAACP President Nekima Levy-Pounds, the branch’s communications chair, Raeisha Williams, Black Lives Matter’s Mica Grimm, Paris Bennett, David Glen (MPLS, Hustle Rose) Pete Rhodes and Kimberly Rhodes of Black Music America/“Urban Perspectives,” Jeff Taube of Mid-America Talent and more.

Comedian and “Chappelle Show” veteran Donnell

Rawlings provided added entertainment when he performed his song, “Lotion,” a parody of O.T. Genasis’ “CoCo.” Most know Rawlings for the character Ashy Larry from Chappelle’s hit television series.

Monday night’s party was the culmination of a week of quickly announced events starring Chappelle, including performances at First Avenue and the State Theatre.

Gov. Mark Dayton declared June 7 Prince Day in Minnesota.

Andrea Jenkins Above, a portrait of Leslie Barlow’s brother, a newly sworn-in Minneapolis police officer.

It is titled “Do Not Cross.”

Flow Art Space presents ‘A Third Space’ new works

by Leslie Barlow Flow Art Space hosts an opening reception for “A Third Space,” the first solo exhibition for Twin Citiesbased painter Leslie Barlow.

The showing is July 21 from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. with a second event scheduled for Aug. 9.

Barlow’s portraits address the complexities of family and community racial identity.

Her paintings, with the use of vibrant color and brushstrokes and often blurred lines, suggest uncertain boundaries.

Barlow graduated in May with a Master of Fine Arts from Minneapolis

College of Art and Design.

She is a recent recipient of the Minnesota State Arts Board Artist Initiative Grant.

Barlow has shown her work in numerous venues around the Twin Cities, including two previous group exhibitions at Flow Art Space.

This exhibition is on view July 21 – Aug. 13.

Flow Art Space is located in the Northern Warehouse in Lowertown at 308 Prince St., Suite 226, St Paul. Entry to the gallery is free. For more information call (612)-564-3569 or go to www.flowartspace.com.

‘Queer Voices’ celebrates 10th anniversary “Queer Voices” is celebrating its 10th anniversary at Intermediate Arts.

To celebrate the reading series dedicated to LGBT artists will present stories from all the season’s readers including award-winning poet and activist, Andrea Jenkins. Jenkins is the co-curator of “Queer Voices” and currently works collecting

oral histories from hundreds of people in the Upper Midwest transgender community as an oral historian in the JeanNickolaus Tretter Collection in Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Studies.

“Queer Voices” is said to be the longest-running series of its kind in the country. The final reading of the 10th anniversary

season, takes place at the Minneapolis Central Library, 3000 Nicollet Ave., downtown Minneapolis on June 28 at 7 p.m. Admission is a suggested donation of between $5-$25.

In addition to Jenkins, the event will feature Jessie Chandler, Chelsey Clammer, Venus DeMars, Ben French, Julie Gard, Christina Glendenning,

Rachel Gold, Ellen Krug, Raymond Luczak, Oskar Ly, Nikolas Martell, John Medeiros, Nasreen Mohamed, Michael Moore, Paul Canada Nemeth, Gary Peter, Trina Porte, Sonic Rain, William Reichard, Savannah Schneider, Bradford Tice, Christine Marie and Chardenai.

Youth-curated LGBT arts festival coming to Minneapolis Pride month means many things – festivals, parades, celebrations with friends and families; though to the Youth Leadership Council at Intermedia Arts, it means it’s time for submissions to the second annual LGBT art festival, Up and Out: Revolution of Self.

Up and Out:

Revolution of Self is a free, multidisciplinary, two-day festival at Intermedia Arts celebrating the artwork and identities of LGBT youth from around the country.

The Youth Leadership Council is calling for work ranging from visual art to performances, film, music and poetry, as well

as proposals for workshops during the festival.

This is the second Up and Out festival focusing on youth and LGBT artists.

The Youth Leadership Council is accepting submissions of multidisciplinary artwork and workshop proposals through July 31. Young

people interested in submitting their work can do so at www.IntermediaArts. org/Apply-Up-And-Out. The Up and Out: Revolution of Self festival will be held at Intermedia Arts, 2822 Lyndale Ave. S. in Minneapolis Oct. 1 and Oct. 2. The festival is free and open to all ages.

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Insight News • June 13 - June 19, 2016 • Page 11 Moors Blackmon

Dave East

June 13 June 19

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, June 13 HIP-HOP/PERFORMANCE Pledge Empire Records Presents Late Nightssssss Honey 205 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis 8 p.m. $10 Come see performances

by Sti-Lo Reel , Ced Linus and Louie P. DJ Danarchy will be on the wheels.

Tuesday, June 14 FORUM

Community Forum on Minneapolis Gun Violence Oak Park Center, Minneapolis 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Thursday, June 16

The Community Forum on Minneapolis Gun Violence is a collaborative effort with Pillsbury United Communities Oak Park Center and Urban Homeworks designed to get community members and leaders together to discuss and coordinate efforts around the gun violence we are experiencing in our community.

HIP-HOP/PERFORMANCE

Wednesday, June 15 COMEDY KMOJ Comedy Series Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy Mall of America, Bloomington 6:30 p.m.

This installment of the monthly comedy series features headlining comedian Honest John and host, Shed G. The KMOJ Comedy Series takes place the third Wednesday of every month.

Dave East Mill City Nights 111 5th St. N., Minneapolis 8 p.m.

18-plus Dave East, arguably the hottest buzzing rapper on the planet right now, comes to Minneapolis at Mill City Nights.

East gained attention in 2014 from his mixtape “Black Rose.” Since the release of his mixtape, East has been signed to Nas’ label, Mass Appeal Records. The show also features StiLo Reel, Reed Benjamin and Dynasty of MCC.

Friday, June 17 COMMUNITY/ PICNIC/GOLF Positive Images Annual Father’s Day Dinner, Golf Outing and Picnic Doubletree Hotel

2200 Freeway Blvd., Brooklyn Park Brookland Golf Park/Central Park, Brooklyn Park 8232/8440 Regent Ave. N. 6 p.m. (Friday dinner), 11 a.m. (Saturday golf), 3 p.m.

– 7 p.m. (Saturday picnic) $40 dinner, $25 golf, picnic is free

This is the final opportunity to see the 2016 Be Heard team in action (along with some incredible surprise guests) before they head to Washington, D.C. to represent Minnesota at the annual international youth poetry slam and festival, Brave New Voices.

The Positive Images annual Father’s Day Weekend dinner, golf outing and picnic are back. The events bring together men and women of all ages to celebrate the fathers in the community. The Friday evening dinner features keynote speaker the Rev. David Keaton and will honor several men in the community including Jeff Hassan of the African American Leadership Forum and Gary Cunningham, councilmember of Metropolitan Council.

Proceeds from the events provide scholarship dollars to area teens entering college.

Saturday, June 18

POETRY/PERFORMANCE Be Heard MN 2016 Team Sendoff Show Rarig Center 330 21st Ave. S., Minneapolis 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. $5

HIP-HOP/PERFORMANCE Summer Sessions Concert Series Vol. 1 Bedlam Lowertown 213 4th St. E., St. Paul 9:15 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. $8 Saturday’s event will be the first in the Sessions Concert Series. Curated by Jay McKinney and Twitch Hylland, this concert series brings together artists from all over the musical spectrum for a night of expression, art, dancing and community.

Performers include Chadwick “Niles” Phillips, Mamadu (Toki Wright), Moors Blackmon, Dream of the Wild and Hvman Natvre.

Sunday, June 19 THEATER “Scapegoat” Pillsbury House Theatre 3501 Chicago Ave. S., Minneapolis 3 p.m.

The small town of Elaine is the flashpoint for this tale of social and racial unrest in 1919 Arkansas. Black sharecroppers Effie and Virgil are attempting to organize with others for better wages when emotions and violence erupt among white and Black residents, leading to one of the deadliest racial confrontations in American history. In part two of the play, two interracial couples accidently stumble upon present day Elaine only to discover the effects of history in their “post-racial” society.

“Scapegoat” runs through June 26.

Page 12 • June 13 - June 19, 2016 • Insight News

CONGRATULATIONS

TONY OLIVA On your induction into the Negro League Baseball Museum’s Hall of Game

From your friends at the Minnesota Twins

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