Insight News ::: 9.12.11

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INSIGHT NEWS Matt Nelson and MerQuery Phoenix

September 12 - September 18, 2011 • MN Metro Vol. 37 No. 37 • The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • www.insightnews.com

The Somalia agenda

By Lydia Schwartz Contributing Writer Seasonal rain disruptions across Eastern Africa are causing widespread drought, crop failure, and vast loss of life. The crisis comes at a time when the region is already suffering from an unstable economy, rebel activity, and crowded living conditions.

Foreign aid experts agree that United

States lawmakers must continue to support international relief efforts that are operated by local, democratic governments.

Refugees from southern Somalia are suffering from severe malnutrition as they flee to their neighboring countries of Kenya and Ethiopia.

Many people are being forced to make a journey that could take up to three weeks. They walk, carrying nothing but their children, to the capital Mogadishu

Oxfam East Africa

in search of food and safety. What they find are overcrowded conditions, overwhelmed aid organizations, and widespread diseases such as cholera and the measles.

Dr. Raj Shah, Administrator of USAID (The United States Agency for International Development), oversees the 0.5% of the United States’ entire federal budget that provides economic

FAMINE TURN TO 7

Cate Turton/Department for International Development

Above: Refugees eagerly await the installation of a new water tank. Inset: A malnourished child in an Medicins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders) treatment tent in the Dolo Ado camp, near Ethiopia’s border with Somalia.

Jobs first: Ellison tells super committee

By Al McFarlane Editor-in-Chief Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN), Co-Chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, last week introduced the “Emergency Jobs Now Act” to require the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction to create at least 3 million jobs over years 2012 and 2013.

The bill requires the Super Committee to draft and vote on job-creating legislation by October 14. Congress would then have to vote to approve the measures by October 31, which is well before

File photo

Representative Keith Ellison (D-MN)

the December 23 deadline for the Super Committee to vote on deficit reduction measures.

“We are in a national unemployment emergency,” said Rep. Ellison. “The ‘Emergency Jobs Now Act’ ensures that deficit reduction does not jeopardize our economy’s growth even more than it already has—and that we focus on the millions of Americans who are out of work. Creating at least 3 million jobs by the end of 2013 will generate the economic activity we need to pull out of this Republicancrafted recession.”

Ellison’s bill seeks to redefine the mission and work of the Joint Select Committee by inserting reference to job creation in its name.

His bill renames the “Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction”

to “Joint Select Committee on Emergency Job Creation and Deficit Reduction,” and it provides the Joint Select Committee with a mandate to enact emergency jobs legislation that creates no less than 3 million jobs in both 2012 and 2013 in addition to reducing the deficit by $1.5 trillion from fiscal years 2014-2021.

Ellison also asks the Committee to accelerate the timeline for the Joint Select Committee to address emergency jobs legislation: He proposes a September 23, 2011 deadline for House and Senate Committees to provide emergency jobs recommendations to the Joint Select Committee, with subsequent

benchmarks: • October 14, 2011: Deadline for Joint Select Committee to vote on report and proposed emergency jobs legislation • October 17, 2011: Deadline for Joint Select Committee to submit report and legislative language to the President, Vice President, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the majority and minority leaders in the House and the Senate.

• October 24, 2011: Deadline for House and Senate committees to report out legislative language from Joint Select Committee • October 31, 2011: Deadline for House and Senate to vote on

emergency jobs legislation from Joint Select Committee.

Ellison’s bill addresses discretionary spending limits by striking the budget caps for fiscal years 2012 and 2013 in order to allow for emergency jobs legislation.

Ellison calls for the Joint Select Committee to achieve $1.5 trillion in deficit reduction from fiscal years 2014-2021.

His bill also allows for an increase in the statutory debt ceiling comparable to the cost of emergency jobs legislation that would be approved by the Joint Select Committee and enacted in to law.

Ramadan reflections: Eid Mubarak

By Muhamed Ibrahim muhamed@insightnews.com First, I would like to wish everyone Eid Mubarak (Blessed Eid).

Eid-ul Fitr is the holiday celebrating the completion of Ramadan. The word “Eid” literally means “festivity” in Arabic. And “festivity” perfectly describes the atmosphere on this day. The day begins with a trip to the Mosque in which a special prayer is held.

As I previously said, mosques are filled with people during Ramadan and even more so during the last ten days of the month. However, it seems everyone comes to the mosque on Eid! It’s like every Muslim living in the Twin Cities comes to pray. I’m always baffled as to where these Muslim are the rest of the year. I’m happy to see my Muslim brothers and sisters, especially in such a time of happiness, but I am somewhat disappointed. Where are these people the rest of year?

On Eid, it is difficult for

Education

Gone to Ghana: You live here

PAGE 4

Suluki Fardan

Ending the Ramadan fast at Masjid An-Nur in North Minneapolis

Artspeak

Destination Curaçao and the North Sea Jazz Festival

PAGE 5

most mosques to accommodate the massive amount of Muslims present on that day, so they will generally host the prayer at another location. Here in the Twin Cities, some of these venues included high schools, community centers and even a church. The most visited venue was the Minneapolis Convention Center, though in other locations, especially in Muslim countries, the Eid prayer is held outside. Coincidentally, one of my earliest Eid memories is praying outside in beautiful San Diego.

Lifestyle

Resistance training is beneficial in the first trimester of pregnancy

PAGE 8

At the Mosque or venue, Muslims recite a prayer called Takbeerat-ul Eid. The recitation is led by someone, usually an elder or Imam, but some places pass the microphone to anybody who wants to lead. Takbeerat-ul Eid is read in a call and response manner; after the lead reads a line, everyone else repeats the same line. The time of the Eid Salat (prayer) varies from place to place, but we prayed at 8:45AM at my Masjid.

RAMADAN TURN TO 10

Plan your career

Cope with or capitalize on change in the workplace

PAGE 10

Page 2 • September 12 - September 18, 2011 • Insight News

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Senate District 61 Special Partisan Primary this week Voting in the September 13 Senate District 61 Special Partisan Primary?

Here’s what you need to know Twenty-three of the 131 Minneapolis precincts are involved in the upcoming Special Election for Senate District 61. A Special Partisan Primary will be held Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2011, and the Special General Election will be held Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2011. Polls are open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Senate District 61 is an area in south central Minneapolis that includes the entirety of

Ward 6 and portions of Wards 8, 9, and 10.

Individuals of Senate District 61 are eligible to vote if they are at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen who has resided in Minnesota for at least 20 days prior to the election.

Any voters who have moved or changed their name since they last voted must re-register.

For further information, Minneapolis voters can visit the city’s new Web address, www. minneapolismn.gov/elections, or may call Minneapolis 311, which can also be reached at (612) 673-3000

or TTY/TTD 612-673-2157.

Special Partisan Primary is Tuesday, Sept. 13 The Sept. 13 Special Partisan Primary ballot will include all partisan candidates for Senate District 61. There are no writeins in a primary.

All voters receive the same ballot and privately vote within the political party of their choice. The top candidate in each major political party will be on the general election ballot, along with minor party candidates and independent candidates.

To view candidate filings

for Senate District 61, follow the link posted on the web at www.minneapolismn.gov/ elections.

Minneapolis 311 open during voting hours for the Sept. 13 Special Partisan Primary & October 18 Special General Election Minneapolis 311 will extend its usual hours by one hour to serve voters while the polls are open, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 13 and Tuesday, Oct. 18. Minneapolis voters can call 311 for information on how to register and where to vote, as well as questions about other city services. From outside the city limits, call (612) 673-3000 or TTY/TTD 612-673-2157.

Election Day Registration with state-required proof of

residence If you missed the Aug. 23 deadline to pre-register for the primary, you may still be able to vote. Minnesota is one of several states with Election Day registration. Individuals may register at the polls on Election Day by providing one of the forms of identification required

by Minnesota law. Please allow extra time at the polls to register. See our website for the types of identification that are needed to register on Election Day. On-line tools help voters participate The Absentee Ballot Lookup is an easy and convenient way for voters to check on the status of their absentee ballot. https:// mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us/ AbsenteeBallotStatus.aspx The Voter Registration Lookup allows voters to enter their name, birthday, and address, to quickly find out if they are registered at that address. https://mnvotes.sos. state.mn.us/VoterStatus.aspx The MN Polling Place Finder allows voters to enter their zip code and street address to find their Ward and Precinct number, the name and address of their polling place, a map showing the polling place location, and view a Sample Ballot when available. http:// pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us/ Absente Voting information Voters may vote in person, or conduct the entire process through the mail. Allow at least seven days to complete the entire process through the mail.

Absentee voting for the Special Partisan Primary continues through Monday, Sept. 12 at Minneapolis City Hall, 350 Fifth St. S. – Room 1B (ground floor of Minneapolis City Hall) and Hennepin County Elections, Government Center – 300 S. 6th St. - Public Service Level. On Saturday, Sept. 10, absentee voting hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. On Monday, Sept. 12 absentee voting closes at 5 p.m. Call Minneapolis 311 or (612) 673-3000 for further information.

For further information The Minneapolis Office of Elections and Voter Registration is responsible for administering elections in the city of Minneapolis. For information about registering and voting in Minneapolis, or to serve as an election judge, residents can visit www.minneapolismn.gov/ elections or call Minneapolis 311, which can also be reached at (612) 673-3000 or TTY/TTD 612-673-2157.

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Insight News • September 12 - September 18, 2011 • Page 3

Shawn Dunbar

Danielle Palmer

Alaina L. Lewis’ film at Twin Cities Black Film Festival

The Projection Room (Minneapolis, MN) Back from its opening day screening at the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival sponsored

by Macy’s, screenwriter Alaina L. Lewis will showcase her latest short film “The Projection Room” at Minneapolis’ own Twin Cities Black Film Festival (TCBFF) .

This year TCBFF, founded by Natalie Morrow, is sponsored by Cadillac, HBO, Vitamin Water and Hershey. The Projection Room is scheduled to play on September 17th, 2011 at 2:15pm at the Trylon microcinema.

Written by Lewis, and Directed/Produced by Howard L. Day, the film is about a man named Cole, who after an ordinary trip to his mailbox, removes a package that causes a reaction not like the norm. A heart-shaped locket, addressed to his true love Laila- whom he believes was sent to her by her “Secret Admirer,” drives us down a rabbit hole filled with Cole’s inner rage and a hurt that soon erupts into a barrage of projections that he sees as a guest

in his own story. The Projection Room is a mind-bending thriller that illustrates the arduous battle Cole undergoes as he struggles to define what is real and what is merely a projection of his subconscious. The film stars Zachariah Delventhal as Cole, Danielle Palmer as Laila, and Shawn Dunbar as Dr. Pierce.

Lewis’ motivation behind the project was to create a story that illustrated the consequence of nursing “unattended baggage,” raising the question, ‘what if your subconscious became a visual nightmare?’ “We all know the cliché saying, ‘think outside the box’, well I wanted to play on that axiom and amplify it in a way no one had ever heard,” Lewis says, “Thinking outside the box is exactly what ‘The Projection Room’ is. It’s a film that conveys what happens to one man, when his subconscious can no longer be contained in a shell.”

Lewis has been writing for four years as both a journalist and now, a screenwriter, where she’s

Alaina L. Lewis

File photo

had the opportunity to entertain the world from behind the stroke of her pen. She has written for many publications, but spent the majority of her journey at YO! Raps Magazine, Clutch Magazine, and Insight Newspaper where she’s interviewed individuals such as Russell Simmons, Idris Elba, Tyrese Gibson, Davis Guggenheim, Will Smith and many others. She also interned at the Production Company Werc Werk Works (Thin Ice, Life

During Wartime, Howl) and Kare 11’s “Showcase Minnesota,” while completing her degree in Screenwriting.

As an African American screenwriter, Lewis seeks to create works that have a diverse and universal voice, tickle the wowfactor, and create verve in her audience long after the last frame has rolled to close. Currently, Lewis is working on a Feature for a movie producer based in Los Angeles, and will spend the end of the year in Natchitoches, Louisiana doing research for the film.

Trylon microcinema is located at 3258 Minnehaha Ave, Mpls, MN 55406 (www.take-up. org) www.willwriteforfilm.com To request an interview, tickets, or for more information, please contact: Alaina L. Lewis: info@ willwriteforfilm.com (612)385-5202 www.willwriteforfilm.com

Photos courtesy of Alaina L. Lewis

Zachariah Delventhal

Page 4 • September 12 - September 18, 2011 • Insight News

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EDUCATION

Gone to Ghana: You live here

By Cordie Aziz My entire life, growing up, I knew that I would not make the United States my permanent home. Now, don’t get me wrong, I am very grateful for all the freedoms that being an American affords me. After all, I can travel to most countries freely, without a lot of hassle and excess fees, I was afforded free education growing up and, through my

hard-work, I have been able to do better than the last generation of my family. In fact, I must say, even a large part of my selfconfidence comes from me being an American, and depending on whom you ask that is a good thing.

So when I decided to move to Ghana, those who really knew me, were not shocked that I was finally living out my dream of living abroad. They wished me well, threw me going-away

Cordie Aziz

parties and made sure they added me to their skype accounts. Ten weeks in, I have settled in my new home, I am making friends and finding opportunities daily. I must admit, I love Ghana.

However, I must also admit, I am surprised that more Ghanaians don’t love Ghana.

My natural hair and Western style dress often instantly let Ghanaians know I don’t belong. it is not hard to identify the fact that I don’t come from Ghana.

Once they can’t help but to ask where I’m from and how long I am staying. They are always excited to hear that I moved from Washington, DC, the same place Barack Obama lives, but when I

tell them I have moved to Ghana, permanently, their excitement fades and their faces drop.

“Eeeeh, you have moved here to Ghana from the United States, why, are you in school?”

It is always the first question they ask. I chuckle to myself, because once I tell them I am not in school, they become concerned.

Their faces twist up, and I can imagine the thoughts that are running through their head. I am sure most of them think I am running from the law, evading taxes or in love with some quicktalking Ghanaian man. For some reason, they just can’t believe an American would leave one of the most developed countries in the

world and to come to Ghana.

This is the point where I start educating them on their country. Telling them Ghana’s GDP grew 25% last year, the largest growth in the world and that the opportunities to create a successful business in Ghana are tremendous. Not to mention, the return on most investments, in Ghana, will be grow exponentially over the next few years. How could I not move here? But they just stare with a blank look, not so sure of my mental capacity.

It is slightly disheartening to know that people don’t believe in their country like I do, and they don’t see all of the

potential that surrounds them.

These encounters have taught me that many people, throughout the world, not just Americans, don’t understand the potential Africa really has. Africa is the last undeveloped frontier of the world, it holds 3/5 of world’s resources and it is still in its industrial phase. For any creative, entrepreneur Africa is a gold mine, both literally and figuratively. The type of wealth that can be amassed in Africa cannot be generated anywhere else in the world, at this time, but I guess it’s like the old saying says, “One man’s junk, is another man’s treasure.”

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Insight News • September 12 - September 18, 2011 • Page 5

Curaçao at night Irma McClaurin Dionne Warwick

Courtesy of Irma McClaurin

Artspeak: Destination Curaçao and the North Sea Jazz Festival

By Irma McClaurin Twitter: mcclaurintweets While Curaçao is a tiny country of less than 150,000 inhabitants, it pulled off an enormously successful music event for the second time on September 2&3, 2011.

If you want beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and a cultural cornucopia of Papiamento, Dutch, Spanish, English, with residuals of Portuguese, African and indigenous native Americans, set sail for Curaçao and the North Sea Jazz Festival before Labor Day about this time next year.

The venue allows you to be up close and personal at the indoor stages and within good sound and viewing range outdoors if you don’t get to the front of the stage early.

I kicked it down front with Kassav and sat on the floor in front of Dionne Warwick close enough to see her sweat.

I wasn’t fast enough to beat the crowd to Stevie Wonder, but I could see the stage, watch the flat screens, and hear him loud and clear everywhere in the World Trade Center. I had a nice side view of Sting and his backup singer.

I was impressed that every act began on time. Sound checks occurred for everyone, resulting in impeccable sounds. And I can’t say enough about the cleanliness of the bathrooms, the reasonablypriced food, and events staff willing to help even when they didn’t know the answer.

Next year the organizers should consider asking taxis to agree to fixed prices or arrange for shuttles. But these are minor and fixable details.

Before or afterwards, consider lingering for a few extra days; it will allow you to leisurely stroll the colorful streets of Punda, cross the swing bridge, or take the ferry across from Otrabanda. People are courteous and helpful and

most locals are fluent in at least four languages.

Conservation is taking hold since water and electricity are expensive Curaçao gets it’s water through desalinization --a timely and expensive process. Don’t forget to have a meal by the sea at many of the restaurants that include Cuban, Italian, Middle Eastern, local, and Dutch European cuisines.

If you want to visit a little piece of a uniquely distinctive part of the African Diaspora, forget Aruba and head straight to La Bonita Isla de Curaçao in the newly independent Netherlands Antilles. And ...relax.

For more information-http://www. curacaonorthseajazz.com/en/ Irma McClaurin is an anthropologist, writer and former President of Shaw University and Assoc VP at UMN. (c) 2011 McClaurin Solutions www.irmamcclaurin.com

Hallie Q. Brown Early Learning Center

Now Enrolling!

651 651--224 224--4607 www.hallieqbrown.org

Since 1929, the Lighthouse of the Community 9 AM - 2 PM

we se, u o h e your Com l! o t . n e r s ia a thou and le so spec h g i L r grow Cente the r! r For hildren s ou r a t o u c e k p l a o f m he hat l t o d a y w e i se ma or e l l a C

Page 6 • September 12 - September 18, 2011 • Insight News

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HEALTH Self determination and how to actually lose weight Murua (Swahili for ‘Respect’)

By Dr. BraVada Garrett-Akinsanya, Ph.D., L.P. Obesity is a deadly, costly, and prevalent problem in the United States. According to the Center for Disease Control about onethird of U.S. adults (33.8%) are obese. Likewise, since 1980, obesity prevalence among children and adolescents has almost tripled, with significant racial and ethnic disparities existing such that non-Hispanic black girls are significantly more likely to be obese than non-Hispanic white girls. In fact, Non-Hispanic blacks have the highest rates of obesity (44.1%) compared with Mexican Americans (39.3%), all Hispanics

(37.9%) and non-Hispanic whites (32.6%). Approximately 17% (or 12.5 million) of children and adolescents aged two—19 years are obese. Obesity-related conditions include heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. In 2008, the medical costs associated with obesity were estimated at $147 billion –paying $1,429 more for obese people than those of normal weight.

Many of you know that I tried for YEARS to lose weight.

It seemed that whatever I did the weight just stayed on me….I would lose weight…only to find it a couple of weeks later (again). Each time I tried (and quit) a new diet, I saw my blood pressure going higher and higher as I gained (and regained) more weight. I tried everything from Slim-fast, to Opti-fast only to inadvertently set myself up to “Die-fast!” I was always on a diet and literally tried everything from Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig, Nutri-system, Do Not- eat-

Carbs- diet, Only-Eat Carbs, The Dolly Parton Diet, to the South Beach Diet and the Atkins plans.

Absolutely nothing seemed to work for very long until one day I decided to actually lose weight.

This past Labor Day weekend marks the two-year anniversary of my decision to “actually lose weight”. I had prepared to go through bariatric surgery by going through a psychological evaluation, meeting with

to lose weight was because I was constantly talking about wellness—but I was not well myself!

My blood pressure was so high that it could not be managed by medication alone.

I could barely walk because my knees and back hurt. I wanted to lose weight for emotional reasons as well. I wanted to shop in the “regular” woman’s sections and I noticed subtle ways that people discriminated against fat folks like

close to 90 pounds for two years--I still have more to lose, but I am satisfied with my progress.

I had two reasons for trying to lose weight naturally. First, I did not want to change my lifestyle in order to adjust to having a surgery that forbade me from having water 30 minutes before, during or after meals. I did not want to avoid ice cream, an occasional glass of wine, steaks or carbonated drinks.

I did not want to eat small meals

“There are several core strategies to utilize if you actually plan to lose weight. Most importantly is the sincere decision to believe in your ability to determine what you do with your own body. ” dieticians, physicians, physical therapists and many other health care professionals. It was a big decision…one that would change my life forever. I was ready to change. I was ready to change because earlier that year (after months of trying to control my skyrocketing blood pressure) I had to be rushed to the intensive care unit of a local hospital because I had an allergic reaction to a new blood pressure medication that had been prescribed by my physician. My husband was in Nigeria; I was alone and thought about how important he was to me and how much I wanted to live to love him until we were old—old. That moment change me. I wanted to live—more than I ever wanted a brownie, a Snickers bar, a Frosty or a bag of Doritos! I wanted to live because I wanted to be able to continue to contribute to my family, and my community. I wanted to live because I knew that I still had work to do and I wanted to honor my God, the Creator of my Spirit. I wanted to live. Therefore, as you can see, several factors contributed to my wanting to lose weight.

Another reason that I wanted

me. For example, when I got on the airplane, I always worried that I would be like that sister in “Why did I get married” and be too large to comfortably sit in the seat or have to ask for an “extension” for the seat belt. I wondered if people would attribute my obesity to me being weak, lazy, undisciplined or personally and psychologically flawed somehow. Additionally, I noticed that booths in restaurants are designed for small people; and that people would make insensitive statements around over-weight people by laughing and saying things like “Oh, look at his belly!” Alternatively “She wears a size 12—she is HUGE”(when you know you wear a size 26)!

Just a few days before I was scheduled to have my bariatric surgery/operation, and “go under the knife” I decided to try one more diet program -Slimgenics.

I called my doctor, cancelled the surgery, and said to myself: “I have been a psychologist for over 25 years and I have helped my patients lose hundreds of pounds…..I guess I could change my behavior!” This time, I decided to actually lose the weight. I have lost and kept off

consisting mostly of protein…. and I did not want avoid bowls of soup or salads. More importantly, either almost everyone I knew who had bariatric surgery had gained a lot of their weight back or they had serious physical complications related to the surgery. I was flat out scared.

Consequently, by the time I had decided to lose the weight, ANY diet plan probably would have worked because changing my eating and exercise habits seemed like a happy alternative to the life choice of surgery that I had in front of me. I had no choice—I had to do something if I wanted to live! I had to lose weight, lower my blood pressure and cholesterol. Since that day, I have realized that losing weight is not at all about the so-called “program” or “diet plan, ” it has more to do with your mental state and readiness to change than just about anything else.

Therefore, understanding where you are in your readiness to change is an essential element to the change process. The Stages of Change Model was originally developed in the late 1970’s and early 1980’s by James Prochaska and Carlo DiClemente in their

research with smokers who were trying to give up cigarettes. The researchers noticed that successful change processes involved a number of Stages of Change.

The first stage was called Precontemplation. An individual in this stage is unaware that there is a problem behavior that needs to be changed (such as when we as a community discovered that salt increased blood pressure). The second stage of change is called Contemplation. In this stage, individuals acknowledge that there is a problem but they are not yet ready or sure of wanting to make a change.

The next stage of the change process is called Preparation.

This is the stage during which the individual is getting ready to change by exploring options and gaining information. The fourth stage of change is called the Action/Willpower stage.

During this phase individuals actually start changing their behaviors little by little they practice new ways of behaving.

The fifth stage of change is called Maintenance. During this phase, people work to maintaining the behavior changes that have been learned. If conditions of stress or trauma occur (such as during our recent government shut down or tornado), individuals can go through another phase called Relapse. During the Relapse phase, people may be observed to abandon their new changes and return to their older, unhealthy (but familiar) behaviors. For example, during the recent government shut down, many of my contracting agencies were unable to pay for work that my team and I had performed and I was worried about making payroll for my staff. I also felt awful thinking about the many families who would be affected by the game of political pingpong—but mostly I was just plan angry, sad and depressed.

Suddenly, I found myself sitting

HEALTH TURN TO 7

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Health From 6 in front of McDonalds eating an ice-cream cone! I came to my senses (after almost finishing the ice cream) and screamed: “Oh my Lord, I’ve relapsed!”

There are several core strategies to utilize if you actually plan to lose weight.

Most importantly is the sincere decision to believe in your ability to determine what you do with your own body. The African principle, Kujichagulia (SelfDetermination). The value of Kujichagulia was introduced

by Maulana Karenga as part of the principles of the Nguzo Saba (often associated with Kawanzaa). It means that we define ourselves, name ourselves, create for ourselves, and speak

Insight News • September 12 - September 18, 2011 • Page 7 for ourselves. In other words, we take responsibility for ourselves and determine the outcomes, the health trajectories and wellness goals for ourselves!

We can choose to control our own destines; we can choose to actually change!

The staff at the Mayo Clinic suggest that when you are setting goals, think about both process and outcome goals. Process goals are designed to describe the habits that you plan to change (i.e. exercise regularly). Outcome goals, on the other hand, describe your desired end result (i.e. lose 20 pounds). Changing processes (habits) will always lead to your desired outcome (losing weight).

Finally, the Mayo Clinic suggests that your goals are SMART: specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-limited. An example of a SMART goal is aiming to walk for 30 minutes a

day, five days a week for the next three months, and logging your results.

Here are some other tips adapted from the Mayo Clinic that may be useful to making the changes that you want in order to achieve your weight loss goals: 1. Make a commitment- A lifelong commitment to weight loss takes time and effort. It also requires that you stay committed to lifestyle changes such as rest, diet and exercise. Also, make sure that you are ready to deal with stress, conflicts and life challenges in a new way (relief is NOT in that gallon of ice cream)!.

2. Set exercise goals that are obtainable and realistic.

Researchers say that in order to lose one to 2 pounds a week, you need to burn 500 to 1,000 calories more than you consume each day.

Many of us fail to lose weight because we do not set reasonable goals. For example, you know that your treadmill is used for a dress rack and you have not used it in two years-- you are probably

File photo

Representative Keith Ellison (D-MN)

Famine From 1 and humanitarian assistance around the world. This agency must stretch their funding globally to assist countries recovering from disaster, help people to escape poverty, and make a better life for themselves in a free and democratic country. Since 1961, USAID has been in operation of the non-military federal foreign assistance budget, sharing knowledge and technologies that can easily be incorporated into local, agriculture-based economies. Shah says that it

NOT going to exercise for one hour every day.

Therefore, setting an exercise goal of 15 minutes three times a week may be something you would actually do!

3. Eat and Enjoy Healthier Foods. To me, the most important aspect of my weight loss journey has come from the realization that I cannot eat EVERYTHING. You must learn to decrease your caloric intake by eating a healthy breakfast daily, and incorporating vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, and low-fat dairy products into your diet. You also need to watch the number/amount of meat and breads that you consume.

4. Identify Your Motivation and Reasons for Wanting to lose Weight. Writing a letter to yourself explaining why you need to lose weight is a good way to clarify your values and rationale.

In addition, you may wish to write a list with the pros and cons for losing weight. Finally, it may be advisable to get a support group or person (even a therapist)

Suluki Fardan

who can help “keep you honest” in your weight loss journey..

5. Change your Perspective.

For me, changing my perspective meant that I had to make the decision that I wanted to live, that I had a right to be well and that I had to achieve it—by any means necessary. I then changed my mind and decided to actually lose the weight. I discovered that it is not good enough to simply start eating healthy foods or exercise for daily-- when you have not dealt with the decision that you need to gradually change the habits and attitudes that have sabotaged your weight loss efforts in the past. There is a saying that: “Insanity is continuing to repeat the same behaviors -- expecting different results”. You will have to move beyond your “insane” patterns of coping and plan for the occasional setback or relapse --and move forward. If you find yourself being stuck with diet or exercise issues, you may seek help from life coaches, therapists, or trainers.

Suluki Fardan

Representative Nancy Pelosi, (D-CA)

Dr. Raj Shah, Administrator of USAID

is important for development initiatives in Somalia to be structured in such a way as to prevent future collapse.

But for aid workers, actually gaining access to the remotest parts of Somalia is often very difficult.

Food and medical convoys must navigate treacherous terrain, while in constant fear of rebel attacks from group of Islamic anarchists, the Al-Shabaab Youth Movement. Al-Shabaab has begun to gain control in many areas and are interfering with relief efforts as part of their war against a democratic government in Somalia. Even though this is a time of fiscal challenge, Shah maintains that we can still find ways to make international developments more effective, and to spur innovation.

“The famine is not just the drought,” Shah says, “nor is it simply related to food access. The famine is children dying. Nutrition and health interventions are what save lives, and we need as much help as we can get from the medical community…It isn’t effective to worry about food convoys being attacked at the expense of making improvements.”

As a United States Representative of a large SomaliAmerican community, Keith Ellison (DFL-Minneapolis) agrees that this great crisis can be used as a great opportunity to show Somali-Americans that America truly does care about all homelands, and the value that immigrants bring to Minnesota.

Our efforts have a positive influence in changing the future of Somalia as an independent nation.

By showing support of emerging democratic governments and free markets, especially across Africa and Arabia, also shows our true character as a nation.

“There has been an international neglect of, and reluctance to act, in Somalia,” Ellison says. “So many of our neighbors, friends, and coworkers hail from the Horn of Africa. In our hyphenated America, built

by immigrants from around the world, we can have our feet rooted here but still extend a helping hand to others around the world. The political turmoil in Somalia will happen again if we do not help them to build a secure infrastructure for their country.”

Democratic Leader from San Francisco, Nancy Pelosi— who was sworn in as the first woman Speaker of the House of Representatives on the same day Ellison became the first Muslim to serve in the Unites States

BraVada Garrett-Akinsanya, Ph.D., L.P. is a Clinical Psychologist in private practice, serves as President of Brakins Consulting and Psychological Services, and is the Executive Director of the African American Child Wellness Institute. The mission of the African American Child Wellness Institute is to promote the psychological and spiritual liberation of children of African Descent by providing culturally specific mental health services and by developing culture-based, holistic wellness resources, research, and practices.

Dr. GarrettAkinsanya warns that this column should in no way be construed as constituting a therapeutic relationship through counseling or advice. To forward a comment about this article or to make an appointment, please contact Dr. Garrett-Akinsanya by email @ bravadaakinsanya@hotmail.com or by telephone at 612-302-3140 or 763-522-0100.

Congress—agrees it is imperative to support funding for USAID efforts in Somalia and to teach our children to have a strong, international consciousness.

“We have to recognize,” Pelosi says, “that alleviating poverty, eradicating disease, and ending despair worldwide should be the forefront of America’s agenda. It is a statement of our values to allocate funds for international aid…A picture is truly worth a thousand words, the American people are affected by pictures of babies dying from this famine. They are as precious to us as any baby in the United States and our consciences are being challenged.”

United States Representative Tom Walz (DFL-Southern Minnesota)—who is currently on unpaid leave from his Geography teaching position at Mankato West High School—says that one way to prevent this tragedy from happening again is to teach the next generation of leaders and scientists to have a strong,

FAMINE TURN TO 10

Page 8 • September 12 - September 18, 2011 • Insight News

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LIFESTYLE Resistance training is beneficial in first trimester of pregnancy Staying healthy during pregnancy is something most women prioritize, but when it comes to exercise, how much is too much?

In the past, pregnant women have had little accurate information concerning the effects resistance training may have during their pregnancy. However, this month, a first-of-its-kind study found that an exercise routine including resistance training in the first trimester is extremely beneficial to mother and child, and has no correlation to increased risk of complications during pregnancy.

In fact it may also help reduce the risk of gestational diabetes and pregnancy induced hypertension.

The new study, conducted

by Michigan State University in partnership with Anytime Fitness and AnytimeHealth.com, studied women who had given birth within the last five years. Overall, the study found that the women who performed resistance training during the first trimester were similar, if not better to those who did not, in respect to maternal weight gain, gestational age at delivery, length of infant at birth, and birth weight. ”We know aerobic activity has been shown to improve the health of mother and child during pregnancy and with this new research we can now say that resistance training can be

beneficial as well during the first trimester,” said Michigan State University Kinesiology Professor, Dr. Jim Pivarnik. “These preliminary results suggest that not only is this type of exercise safe, but the study also found that weight lifting may help reduce the risk of gestational diabetes, pregnancy induced hypertension and weight control, since the women in the study who resistance trained had a lower pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI).”

Of the 214 women studied, 56 performed resistance training using either free weights or weight machines an average of 2.9 days per week for 30 minutes a session.

During the first trimester, the F.I.T.T. principle (focus on frequency, intensity, time and exercise type) is the best method for women to exercise safely and effectively. It is also a simple way for expectant mothers to begin to improve their muscular strength and endurance in just four easy steps: Frequency: 3 days a week Intensity: Low amount of weights and higher repetitions (around 12 to 15) Time: 20 to 30 minutes a session Type: Free weights, weight machines, resistance bands, or kettle bells “Staying fit and active during

Anytime Fitness

pregnancy can have positive effects on mother and child and the F.I.T.T. principle is a great

place to start to improve muscular strength and endurance,” said Brian Zehetner, director of

AnytimeHealth.com, one of the study’s co-sponsors. “To get the most benefit from resistance

training, it is important to also include aerobic activity in your weekly workout regiment.”

Pivarnik and Zehetner recommend the following tips for pregnant women, pre- and postpregnancy, to stay motivated and to make exercise more enjoyable: Start slow and build up to your goal.

Work out with a friend, or a group of friends (bring your stroller if you need to!).

Find a group exercise class – many options, such as prenatal yoga, Pilates, or Zumba, will improve both cardio and muscular strength.

Sneak physical activity into daily life by taking a 10-minute walk at lunch or during breaks.

Find exercises to do at home with resistance bands, so you can work out while the kids are napping.

“It is important to remember that women should always communicate with their health care provider before initiating an exercise program,” Pivarnik said.

The findings of this research are part of an ongoing study by Michigan State University that is available to all women who belong to Anytime Fitness and AnytimeHealth.com.

The Michigan State University study was conducted

by Erin E. Kuffel; Karin A. Pfeiffer, FACSM; Claudia B. Holzman; Daniel R. Gould; and James M. Pivarnik, FACSM, in 2011. The women in the study completed online surveys and were recruited by Anytime Fitness and AnytimeHealth.com.

insightnews.com

Insight News • September 12 - September 18, 2011 • Page 9

President Obama addresses job crisis

Remarks of President Barack Obama in an Address to a Joint Session of Congress Thursday, September 9, 2011.

Mr. Speaker, Mr. Vice President, Members of Congress, and fellow Americans: Tonight we meet at an urgent time for our country. We continue to face an economic crisis that has left millions of our neighbors jobless, and a political crisis that has made things worse.

This past week, reporters have been asking “What will this speech mean for the President?

What will it mean for Congress?

How will it affect their polls, and the next election?”

But the millions of Americans who are watching right now: they don’t care about politics. They have real life concerns. Many have spent months looking for work. Others are doing their best just to scrape by – giving up nights out with the family to save on gas or make the mortgage; postponing retirement to send a kid to college.

These men and women grew up with faith in an America where hard work and responsibility paid off. They believed in a country where everyone gets a fair shake and does their fair share – where if you stepped up, did your job, and were loyal to your company, that loyalty would be rewarded with a decent salary and good benefits; maybe a raise once in awhile. If you did the right thing, you could make it in America.

But for decades now, Americans have watched that compact erode.

They have seen the deck too often stacked against them. And they know that Washington hasn’t always put their interests first.

The people of this country work hard to meet their responsibilities.

The question tonight is whether we’ll meet ours.

The question is whether, in the face of an ongoing national crisis, we can stop the political circus and actually do something to help the economy; whether we can restore some of the fairness and security that has defined this nation since our beginning.

Those of us here tonight can’t solve all of our nation’s woes.

Ultimately, our recovery will be driven not by Washington, but by our businesses and our workers.

President Barack Obama But we can help. We can make a difference. There are steps we can take right now to improve people’s lives.

I am sending this Congress a plan that you should pass right away. It’s called the American Jobs Act. There should be nothing controversial about this piece of legislation. Everything in here is the kind of proposal that’s been

supported by both Democrats and Republicans – including many who sit here tonight. And everything in this bill will be paid for. Everything.

The purpose of the American Jobs Act is simple: to put more people back to work and more money in the pockets of those who are working. It will create more jobs for construction workers, more jobs for teachers, more jobs for veterans, and more jobs for the long-term unemployed. It will provide a tax break for companies who hire new workers, and it will cut payroll taxes in half for every working American and every small business. It will provide a jolt to an economy that has stalled, and give companies confidence that if they invest and hire, there will be customers for their products and services. You should pass this jobs plan right away.

Everyone here knows that small businesses are where most new jobs begin.

And you know that while corporate

profits have come roaring back, smaller companies haven’t. So for everyone who speaks so passionately about making life easier for “job creators,” this plan is for you.

Pass this jobs bill, and starting tomorrow, small businesses will get a tax cut if they hire new workers or raise workers’ wages.

Pass this jobs bill, and all small business owners will also see their payroll taxes cut in half next year. If you have 50 employees making an average salary, that’s an $80,000 tax cut. And all businesses will be able to continue

writing off the investments they make in 2012.

It’s not just Democrats who have supported this kind of proposal. Fifty House Republicans have proposed the same payroll tax cut that’s in this plan. You should pass it right away.

Pass this jobs bill, and we can put people to work rebuilding America. Everyone here knows that we have badly decaying roads and bridges all over this country.

Our highways are clogged with traffic. Our skies are the most congested in the world.

This is inexcusable. Building

a world-class transportation system is part of what made us an economic superpower. And now we’re going to sit back and watch China build newer airports and faster railroads? At a time when millions of unemployed construction workers could build them right here in America?

There are private construction companies all across America just waiting to get to work. There’s a bridge that needs repair between Ohio and Kentucky that’s on one

OBAMA TURN TO 10

ABUSED, NEGLECTED, AND MAYBE AWAY FROM HOME…

Be a Child’s Voice in Court!

We need people who care about children caught in our child protection system. Consider becoming a volunteer child advocate for kids. Help children remain in safe & stable families. Free training & support are provided.

Minneapolis Trainings begin in September and October St. Paul Training begins Mid September PLEASE CALL FOR AN INFORMATION PACKET Dakota County (651) 554-6231

Hennepin County (612) 348-6824

Ramsey County (651) 266-5270

VOLUNTEER GUARDIAN AD LITEM PROGRAMS

Page 10 • September 12 - September 18, 2011 • Insight News

INSIGHT NEWS www.insightnews.com

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

Editor-In-Chief Al McFarlane CFO Adrianne Hamilton-Butler Publisher Batala-Ra McFarlane Associate Editor & Associate Publisher B.P. Ford Vice President of Sales & Marketing Selene White Director of Content & Production Patricia Weaver Sr. Content & Production Coordinator Ben Williams Production Andrew Notsch Distribution/Facilities Manager Jamal Mohamed Facilities Support / Assistant Producer, Conversations with Al McFarlane Bobby Rankin Receptionist Lue B. Lampley Staff Writer Ivan B. Phifer Contributing Writers Maya Beecham Brenda Colston Julie Desmond S. Himie Marcia Humphrey Alaina L. Lewis Ryan T. Scott Lydia Schwartz Stacey Taylor Photography Suluki Fardan Tobechi Tobechukwu 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.

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Cope with or capitalize on change in the workplace Plan Your Career

By Julie Desmond julie@insightnews.com A few years ago, on an ordinary Tuesday, a few planes flew off course and suddenly life in America changed forever.

Change happens. Not every change is cataclysmic, but it is often unexpected and it always

Famine From 7 international consciousness. This means learning to think critically about how our actions can have

requires people to respond.

When change happens at work, your response can make or break your career. What are your options?

Option #1: Sit there and take it. Most people wouldn’t let a mosquito buzz in their ear for an extended length of time. Yet, in work situations, minor irritations can fester into major bugbites. Say your company initiates a new policy that creates more work for you for no obvious reason. You can choose to go along with it… buzz… buzz…

Option #2: Stand up. You

like your boss but you dislike the policy. Consider that most changes in the workplace are not random. A policy change requires the time, energy and resources of at least a few leaders. Invoke the curiosity card; talk to your boss to gain a good understanding of what’s behind the change.

Does the new policy save the company money, generate more business or solve a corporate problem? Before those planes hit those towers, removing your shoes in an airport would have been considered seriously strange behavior.

Knowing

why a change occurred can make it much easier to go along with it.

Option #3: Capitalize on the change. When Manager Bonnie allowed her best people to post for promotions to other departments, she was left with the challenge of hiring and rebuilding an entire department.

She kept an upbeat attitude and everyone noticed. The executive team appreciated her training and mentorship abilities; her peers appreciated that great employees were available for their positions; and her staff knows she is their

advocate. She gains loyalty, support and resources in return for her enthusiasm during a time of much change.

When change happens, and it always does, ask yourself: Will I cope? Or will I capitalize? It’s not easy to see the opportunity in every transition, but when you seek it out, it’s there.

positive or negative influences internationally. Many school districts are facing stiff budget cuts and may be forced to remove geography and international social studies from school curriculums. Walz argues that if children are educated without a

comprehensive understanding of different cultures in context of each other, the next generation may not fully understand how to prevent tragedies from happening again.

“We are truly citizens of the world,” Walz says, “and I

reject the notion that action is impossible. We cannot simply check our morals at the border.”

For more information, visit www.

USAID.gov.

Solutions From 11

Ramadan From 1 After the prayer, families and friends usually get together for a breakfast/brunch meal.

Muslims exchange greetings and gifts. Everyone is dressed up and smiling. Muslims are encouraged to wear new clothes or their best attire. Children receive candy and toys while most teenagers prefer cash instead.

Then in the afternoon, Muslims families will do something “fun”.

Many events are held by Muslim organizations such as picnics and carnivals. This year many people went to Valley Fair. However, the long standing tradition here in the Twin Cities is to visit the Mall of

Obama From 9 of the busiest trucking routes in North America. A public transit project in Houston that will help clear up one of the worst areas of traffic in the country. And there are schools throughout this country that desperately need renovating. How can we expect our kids to do their best in places that are literally falling apart? This is America. Every child deserves a great school – and we can give it to them, if we act now.

The American Jobs Act will repair and modernize at least

America.

Some advice to my NonMuslims friends who plan on shopping or visiting at Mall of America on Eid, do not do it.

The place is packed with people beyond comprehension! Everyone goes to the Mall with their family and friends. People travel from Rochester, an 85 mile trip, to come to the Mall of America on Eid. Eid was good this year.

However, this Eid was the first without my mother and brother as they are out of the country. Eid is best celebrated as a complete family. Their absence makes me feel empty inside. But this feeling quickly leaves, when I listen to the news. I still have my health and safety when compared to some of my brother and sisters around the world.

Please do not forget to visit Muslims who don’t have much family around them especially brothers and sisters who have recently accepted Islam. It really isn’t Eid without family.

Ramadan was truly a blessing.

It came at the perfect time for me: before the beginning of school. I really needed Ramadan. Being a Muslim student at university can be difficult at times. There are many distractions.

Now that Ramadan is over, what’s next? Do we return to our “normal” lives? Do we return to our old ways? “Ramadan is about spiritual change not spiritual restraint,” said a friend of mine. We should continue our good actions into these months following Ramadan.

35,000 schools. It will put people to work right now fixing roofs and windows; installing science labs and high-speed internet in classrooms all across this country. It will rehabilitate homes and businesses in communities hit hardest by foreclosures. It will jumpstart thousands of transportation projects across the country. And to make sure the money is properly spent and for good purposes, we’re building on reforms we’ve already put in place. No more earmarks. No more boondoggles. No more bridges to nowhere. We’re cutting the red tape that prevents some of these projects from getting started as quickly as possible.

And we’ll set up an independent fund to attract private dollars and issue loans based on two criteria: how badly a construction project is needed and how much good it would do for the economy.

This idea came from a bill written by a Texas Republican and a Massachusetts Democrat. The idea for a big boost in construction is supported by America’s largest business organization and America’s largest labor organization. It’s the kind of proposal that’s been supported in the past by Democrats and Republicans alike. You should pass it right away...

Read the full text online at insightnews.com

Julie Desmond is a recruiter with a Fortune 500 company in Minneapolis. Write to Julie@ insightnews.com.

TV FAMILIES

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Insight News • September 12 - September 18, 2011 • Page 11

North Minneapolis Neighborhood beat...

By Ivan Phifer, Staff Writer Webber Park redesign The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) will hold a community survey and a multi-day design kick-off event for Webber Park. The planning process will bring together the community and a professional design team to create a vision for the future of Webber Park. This vision will guide $4 million in improvements in 2012-2013. The Webber Park multi-day design kick-off event is scheduled for September 29, 30 and October 1 at 4400 Dupont Ave N. The 6:30-8:30pm September 29 community meeting is for the design team and community to discuss demographics, program opportunities, natural resources, and community visions for the park. The 3-5pm September 30 design team will be working on concepts based on the September 29 meeting.

Community members can watch progress and visit with the designers during the 3-5pm open studio. From 9:30am-Noon, Saturday September 10, there will be a community open house to review. For more information contact Jennifer Ringold at 612-230-6464, or ringold@ minneapolisparks.org Lowry Avenue Harvest Festival The Lowry Avenue Harvest Festival takes place 11-5pm, Saturday, September 17, at the corners of Penn and Lowry in North Minneapolis. The event features: music, a car show, arts and crafts, food, a kids’ zone with appearances by Pickles the Clown, JoJo the Balloon Guy, the Raptor Center, caricaturist, storytellers, and a magician. The festival also includes a farmers’ market and community information tables.

The Festival’s ”Biggest Vegetable Contest” awards prizes for the biggest tomato, green pepper, zucchini and pumpkin, as well as the weirdest shaped vegetable. A pie recipe-baking contest will select a winner’s pie to be featured at the Lowry Café. A percentage of sales will be donated to the charity of the winner’s choice.

Donations will also be accepted for the local food shelf. For more information contact the Webber Camden Neighborhood Organization at 612-521-2100.

Tree Stumps The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board began work Thursday, Aug. 11 to remove boulevard tree stumps left by the May 22 tornado on the North Side. The stump removals mean the City of Minneapolis will soon be able to begin repairs to sidewalks damaged in the tornado. The Mayor and City Council approved sidewalk repairs without assessing any of the cost to property owners. This is similar to what the City did in 2009 when a tornado damaged neighborhoods in South Minneapolis. Around 1,600 sidewalk panels were damaged when the tornado cut through North Minneapolis, according to a survey of the damage done by the City’s Public Works department. Also, around 600 feet of curb was damaged in the tornado and will need to be replaced. Almost all of this damage was caused when the tornado toppled trees along sidewalks and curbs, causing the roots to push up the concrete. Once the tree stumps and roots are removed, the ground can be patched up and sidewalk work can begin.

Park and Recreation Board crews have spent the last several weeks working with Gopher State to locate utility lines around each of the 1,529 “tipped” stumps on boulevards that have exposed roots, in order to make sure the removal can be done safely.

Gopher State Central Minnesota is a general contractor specializing in areas of commercial construction, pre-engineered metal buildings, and construction management. The work will begin in the northernmost section of the tornado area and move south, and work to remove tipped stumps. This is expected to take about a month. The City expects to begin sidewalk work around Sept. 1, once enough stumps are removed to allow crews to work continuously on sidewalk and curb repairs.

Classifieds/Calendar Events Edison Class of 1961 - 50 Year Class Reunion - Sept 15-16 4 fun activities planned. Contact Gary Jones ASAP - 612.789.7000 The Invisible Children - Sep 16 Children with incarcerated parents are among the most vulnerable populations of children. Learn how to best support the healthy development of these children.

Job Placement Specialist Summit Academy OIC, a non-profit adult education and vocational training center, is seeking a full-time highlymotivated Job Placement Facilitator who is skilled and experienced in forming partnerships with hiring agencies and is familiar with job readiness, placement and recruitment trends and processes, which will be necessary in assisting our students to obtain gainful employment after graduating our program. Candidates will have a Bachelor’s degree in Construction Project Management, Counseling, Human Resources or a closely related field. 5-7 years of progressive job placement or readiness work may be substituted for the education requirement. A Global Career Development Facilitator Certificate is highly preferred.

Community Appreciation Luncheon honoring “The Good Shepard” - Sept 17 The Prom Center, 484 Inwood Ave., Oakdale, 1:00PM – 3:00PM Tickets: $25 ($10 ages 6-12; free under age 6) For more information, please contact the church office 651-487-4092.

2011 Minnesota Walk for Children with Apraxia — Sept 17 The walk, dedicated in honor of all children

Salary is commensurate with skills and experiences. Valid Driver’s license required. EEO/AA Employer.

Position is open until filled. Please send resumes with cover letter attention Human Resources Manager at hresources@ saoic.org or by fax at 612-278-5242. No phone inquiries please.

Lind-Bohanan The 7th Annual Riverfest and Heritage Day event from 1-5pm, Saturday September 17, celebrates the history of the Mississippi River. The event will be held at Carl Kroening Interpretive Center, 4900 Mississippi Court North. For more information, contact Brenda Yarfitz at 612 335-5891.

Victory Monthly meetings for the Victory Neighborhood Association take place on the fourth Wednesday of each month. The September meeting will be held at 7pm, September 28 at The Warren; An Artist Habitat, 4400 Osseo Road, for an annual meeting and board election. For more information on the Victory Neighborhood Association, contact Debbie Nelson at 612 5289558 or visit www.victoryneighborhood.com Polar Pride The North High Polaris celebrate 2011 homecoming with a game against the South High Tigers from 12-2pm, Saturday, September 17 at Minneapolis North High.

For more information, contact Principal Peter Christenson at 612 668-1700 or Peter.

Christensen@mpls.k12.mn.us or Assistant Principal Carly Jarva at 612 668-1818 or Carly.

Jarva@mpls.k12.mn.us Harrison Open Mic The Heritage Park Neighborhood Association and Urban Strategies have partnered to create Heritage Park Open Mic. The event takes place from 5-6pm Tuesday September 20. This bi-weekly event, hosted by local spoken word artist Tish Jones, is held at 1000

PHONE: 612.588.1313

Fri. Sept. 16 at College of St. Benedict, St. Joseph. Free for family members impacted by incarceration, $15 for all others. Register conta.cc/pHCdDw

The ideal candidate will have the following skills and abilities including: • Established networks in the Construction and or Healthcare Industries • The ability to form new and effective partnerships with corporations, non-profits, community partners and government agencies to identify employment needs and provide advocacy and consultive advice to students • The capability to evaluate and assess current and graduate students of various abilities and diverse backgrounds, conduct interviews and recommend placement of the most qualified students for various job opportunities • Advanced knowledge of database and spreadsheet creation, maintenance and reporting; • Advance proficiency in Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and Publisher) s • Demonstrated ability to present and facilitate large group meetings and excellent oral and written communication skills.

The cost of sidewalk and curb repair work is approximately $300,000, and the City Council has approved a resolution seeking reimbursement of these costs from FEMA and the State of Minnesota.

Olson Memorial Highway in the Heritage Park Community Room. A feature artist will perform at each open mic. Slots available on a first come first serve basis. For more information, contact Kristy Clemons at 612 767-1061 or kristyclemons@hotmail.com Homework Help Volunteers are needed for Homework Help at Heritage Park. The first session will start at 3:30pm Monday, September 19 in the community room of 1000 Olson Memorial Highway. The sessions will run every Monday and Wednesday afternoons. All skill levels are welcome and needed, as difficulty level of student varies depending on grade level. For more information, contact Community Liaison Alecia Leonard at 612 767-1055.

UROC celebration The Urban Research Outreach and Engagement Center will hold a special open house to celebrate two years of programs and partnerships at UROC. The celebration takes place from noon to 6pm Tuesday, September 20 at the UROC office 2100 Plymouth Ave N. There will be a short program and reception at 1pm. The event is free and open to the public.

For more information on the event, contact Makeda Zulu-Gillespie at 612 626-9829 or at zulug001@umn.edu Willard Homewood/Near North The Northside Residents Redevelopment Council will hold its monthly meeting from 6:30-8pm Monday September 19, 2011 at Northpoint Health and Wellness Center 1315 Penn Ave. The meetings are held each third Monday of the month. For more information contact Ishmael Israel at 612 335-5924 or Israel@nrrc.org Willard Homewood Organization WHO will hold their monthly community meeting from 6-7pm, Thursday, September

FAX: 612.588.2031

with Apraxia, will be located at Normandale Lake Park, West Grounds on Sat., Sept. 17 at 10am and is open to adults and children.

On-site registration and check-in begins at 9am. Anyone interested in participating should contact Michelle Rutoski, Walk Coordinator, at michellerutoski@gmail.com OR visit the website at: http://www.apraxiakids.org/mnwalk for more information.

Anniversary Worship Service - Sep 18 At Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church North Location. 501 W. Lawson Ave. St. Paul.

8-11am Worship Services. Guest Speaker: Dr Frank E. Ray, Senior Pastor of Salem Missionary Baptist Church, Memphis, TN Living with Division - Sept 20 Michel and Carmen are Christians living in Bethlehem and Jerusalem, respectively, with a family life severely complicated by Israel’s occupation of the West Bank. Learn about their trials and Project Olivewood, an organization that sustains 46 Christian

Outreach Director Minnesota DFL seeks qualified applicants for Outreach Director position. Must have a practical background in field or community organizing, experience developing relationships with historically underrepresented communities, and proven ability to use technology as an effective organizing tool. Position requires a commitment to engage and respect diverse constituency groups. EOE. For more info visit dfl.org/contact/internship-opportunities

Employment Development Coach Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Minneapolis is seeking a part-time Employment Development Coach. Qualified applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree and one to three years of employment coaching and training experience. Job duties include screening and evaluating job seekers and providing one-on-one training. This position is benefits eligible and will work in part with the Student African America Brotherhood at Minneapolis Technical and Community College. E-mail Tammy Cohen at HumanResources@jfcsmpls.org or fax 952-593-1778 to apply. AA/EEO

15 at Northpoint 1315 Penn Ave N. For more information contact Al McFarlane at 612 6950147 or al@insightnews.com Tree Trunk distribution Tree Trust a local nonprofit is looking for volunteers to distribute and replace 300 sixfoot tall trees in North Minneapolis destroyed by the tornado. The North Minneapolis Tree Distribution is a two-day event located at 2117 W River Parkway in Minneapolis. The distribution has two different shifts each day.

Shifts for the first day of distribution are 112pm and 2-4:30pm Sunday, October 2. The second day will have shifts from 1:30-4pm and 4-6pm Monday, October 3. Tree Trust is looking for 6-8 volunteers per shift. Volunteer as a lifter or Tree Trainer. For more information about tree distribution, contact Diana Preisen, Community Forest Specialist at Tree Trunk at 612 590-1421, or dianap@treetrust.org Fashion Show Benefit Keiona L. Cook “Day”, owner of the 501(c) (3), non-profit Qe’Bella, will be putting on the 2nd Annual Fashion Show Benefit 8:30pm Saturday, September 17 at Historical Capri Theater 2027 West Broadway.

Cook is raising scholarship funding for youth to continue the art of sewing in North Minneapolis at Homewood Studios, located at 2400 Plymouth Ave N. Cook, a young talented graduate of North High School is back in the community because she believes in it’s continued growth. Take time out to come out and support the show. Tickets are $15 in advance for general admission and $20 at the door. If you are unable to attend, consider making a donation. For questions on how to get tickets or donate, call (612)384-1971.

Tickets can also be purchased online at www. vitalculture.com. Follow Keiona Cook on Facebook, and visit www.qebella.com

EMAIL: andrew@insightnews.com

families living in Bethlehem. Tue., Sept.

20 7pm. @ Robbinsdale United Church of Christ - 4200 Lake Rd. Ave., Robbinsdale.

More info: Carole Rydberg at 763-5465368.

MR|DI debuts draft Upper Riverfront parks development report - Sept. 20 & 21 On Tue., Sept. 20, the Minneapolis Park Board invites the community to join Advisory and Technical committee members to a 6-8pm briefing on the draft report at Park Board headquarters, 2117 West River Road.

HR&A, along with TLS/KVA and Project Manager Mary deLaittre, will present to the MR|DI Steering Committee on Wed., Sept.

21, beginning at 7:30am, also at Park Board headquarters.

Hawthorne’s Annual Meeting and Board of Directors Elections - Sept 22 This meeting is free and open to the public and all Hawthorne residents are encouraged to attend and participate. Dinner will be served for all those in attendance. Thur., Sept. 22 6-8:30pm at Farview Park.

Walk for Recovery - Sept. 24 Saturday, September 24: 9 a.m. – 10 a.m.

Registration, 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Walk for Recovery, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Postwalk celebration. Lake of the Isles Lutheran Church, 2020 West Lake of the Isles Parkway, Mpls. The Walk for Recovery, a 2.9 mile walk around Lake of the Isles in Minneapolis, is designed to inspire hope in the community at large that long-term recovery is possible, to celebrate those who have sustained long-term recovery, and to spur support and encouragement for those who are still struggling with addiction. More information at minnesotarecovery.org 5th Annual Twin Cities VisionWalk Sept 25 Join hundreds in the fight against blindness at VisionWalk, the national signature 5K

fundraising event of the Foundation Fighting Blindness. Sun., Sept. 25 - Registration: 9am - Walk Starts: 10:30am. @ Lake Harriet Bandshell 4135 W. Lake Harriet Parkway, Mpls. Info: MDivincenzo@FightBlindness. org Changing Realities in the Middle East and North Africa - Sept. 28 A Talk by Sara Flounders, co-director of the International Action Center. Wed., Sept. 28 7pm. Walker Community United Methodist Church, 3104 16th Ave. S., Mpls. FREE and open to the public.

4th Women’s Empowerment Symposium - Oct 1 Powerhouse Terrie Williams, president and founder of The Stay Strong Foundation will serve as the keynote speaker at The Women of Courage Awards Luncheon. Other honorees are Tonya Puckett, Sheila Raye Charles and more! Sat. Oct. 1 8am-3pm @ Crowne Plaza Hotel and Suites Three Appletree Square at I 494 and 34th Ave. For more information contact emmett_till_ legacy@yahoo.com or call 888-509-9614 ext 82 Benefit to End Homelessness Features Pianist Steven C - Oct 1 Wells Foundation pianist/composer Steven C and Special Guests Mary Beth Carlson, Tom Hedrick, & Patty Peterson. Saint Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral, 519 Oak Grove Street (Loring Park), Mpls. Sat., Oct. 1 (doors open at 6 p.m., concert starts at 7 p.m.) All proceeds support grants to organizations that use social innovation to end homelessness. Tickets can be purchased in advance by calling (952) 525-2237 or online at www.wellsfound.org. Tickets will be available at the door, subject to availability.

Coffee Break STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: TV Families ACROSS 1. Divisions of a family or clan 6. Threat to illegal aliens 9. Greek goddess of youth, wife of Hercules 13. Whitman’s famous flower 14. *Homer Simpson’s exclamation 15. Craze 16. Pleasant odor 17. Spermatozoa counterpart 18. Tear-jerker 19. Treat cruelly 21. *Nora plus 5 kids 23. CD-___ 24. Among 25. Adam’s famous part 28. Often served hot with sushi 30. Relating to skin 35. *The Formans’ son on “That ‘70s Show” 37. *The Cunninghams had only one on “Happy

Days” 39. *Dora the Explorer’s cousin 40. Actress Sofer’s given name 41. “Or else” in music 43. Mountain goat terrain 44. Render harmless 46. Upper layer of earth’s crust 47. “The Simpsons” palindrome 48. *Ozzie or Harriet 50. *Where Stewie sleeps on “Family Guy” 52. Buddhist doctrine 53. Done before wash?

55. Xanthan ___ 57. *Jim Bob and Michelle plus 19 kids 61. Make one a sir, e.g.

65. Embryo cradles 66. Pen ___ 68. Slobber 69. Frantic 70. Under the weather 71. Churchill/Roosevelt/ Stalin meeting site 72. Throat-clearing sound 73. Tax helper 74. Sometimes used to

describe dragon

34. Enter user name and password DOWN 36. Lightning McQueen 1. Block movie 2. Irish name of Ireland 38. The one with pants on 3. Walk, as through mud fire 4. Less wild 42. Done to printer car5. *Lynette and Tom plus tridge 6 kids 45. Artwork of many 6. America’s choice pieces 7. Thanksgiving time 49. Neither here ___ there 8. Medieval oboe 51. *Al and Peggy plus 9. Beefcake kids 10. Fourth largest Great 54. Gelatin Lake 56. No such thing as this 11. Uncouth person type of victory?

12. European sea eagles 57. Russian governmental 15. Bowed out, as in cards agency 20. Idealized image 58. The Beehive State 22. Assistance 59. DNA segment 24. Plane discomfort 60. Sinister 25. *Thomas family friend 61. Singer Fitzgerald on “What’s Happening!!” 62. Western cord necktie 26. _____ Adler, Sherlock 63. Lesotho money Holmes’ romantic inter64. Distinctive elegance est?

67. One of a range in 27. Twofold Europe 29. Mistletoe tradition 31. Puerto ____ 32. *Fred or Ethel Answers on page 10 33. Popular jewelry stone

Page 12 • September 12 - September 18, 2011 • Insight News

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