Insight News ::: 12.17.12

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INSIGHT NEWS December 17 - December 23, 2012 • MN Metro Vol. 39 No. 51 • The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • www.insightnews.com

HipHopGods

By Harry Colbert, Jr. Contributing Writer

W

hen Chuck D, founder of Public Enemy and creator of the HipHopGods Tour, talks about hip-hop acts, he refuses to use the term, “old school.”

“That’s being dismissive of who we are and what we do,” said Chuck D. “We are classic artist.”

See, old school artists don’t get called for gigs. Their shows are few and far between. On the other hand, classic rock acts such as the Rolling

Stones and Fleetwood Mac are selling out arenas worldwide. Old school just doesn’t sell – at least that’s what concert promoters told Chuck.

Never mind the fact that Public Enemy was just nominated for induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, or fellow tour mate, Monie Love, has a top show – “Ladies First” – on Backspin Radio, a satellite channel dedicated to old school … um … classic hip-hip music. Forget the fact that X Clan has one of the most powerful albums in hip-hop, To the East, Blackwards. The Leaders of

PUBLIC ENEMY 15 TURN TO

Michele Spaise

Welcome to the Terrordome. PE front man Chuck D raps as iconic hype man, Flava Flav shows he’s not just window dressing by jamming out on the bass.

Inset: Flamboyant as always, Flava Flav greets the First Avenue crowd wearing a tri-color fur jacket.

Occupy Homes MN rallies; occupies vacant house, Chuck D, Brother Ali protest foreclosures

By Harry Colbert, Jr. Contributing Writer

Michele Spaise

Insight reporter Harry Colbert, Jr. speaks with rapper and activist, Brother Ali, inside the home of Bobby Hull. Ali was on hand to show support for the Occupy Homes MN movement.

One year after the Occupy Homes MN movement gained national attention in its fight to keep foreclosed residents in their homes, the group occupied a vacant property for a homeless man.

On Dec. 6, 2011, syndicated radio personality and MSNBC host, Ed Schultz, broadcasted his television show live from the home of United States military veteran, Bobby Hull.

Hull’s home, in the 3700 block of Columbus Avenue South in Minneapolis was foreclosed

OCCUPY TURN TO 14

Volunteering among Americans hits fiveyear high, Minnesotans ranked fourth Washington, D.C. – As the holiday season spotlights charitable contributions and acts of kindness, a new national study shows that Americans significantly increased their commitment to volunteering and civic engagement in 2011, with the national volunteer rate reaching

a five-year high.

Minnesotans ranked fourth in the nation for volunteering with 38 percent of its residents participating in some sort of volunteering activity. On average, the state’s residents committed 41.5 hours to volunteer efforts

U of M

Broadway Family Medicine Clinic key player in Northside health

PAGE 2

with 1.58 million Minnesotans volunteering their time to various causes. That totals to nearly 171.8 million hours of service. Fortyfive percent of parents in the state volunteer, ranking them fourth

VOLUNTEER TURN TO 12

Business

Tweepwise promotes Twitter efficacy

PAGE 4

Freddie Allen/NNPA

Reverend Al Sharpton, president and founder of the National Action Network addresses the media after meeting with more than 40 leaders on a “Black Agenda” in Washington, D.C.

Creating a black agenda

By Freddie Allen NNPA Washington Correspondent WASHINGTON (NNPA) – After a four-hour meeting of some the best minds in civil rights, business, education and the media, dozens

of Black leaders from across the nation outlined a “Black agenda” that would be presented to President Barack Obama and Congress early next year.

The leadership group was assembled by Marc Morial, president and chief executive officer of the National Urban League; Al Sharpton, founder and

Aesthetics

Queen of the castle

PAGE 7

president of the National Action Network; Benjamin Todd Jealous, president and CEO of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), and Melanie Campbell, president and CEO of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation.

AGENDA TURN TO 6

Health

A new series...

Prediabetes: A wake up call for health

PAGE 9

Page 2 • December 17 - December 23, 2012 • Insight News

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Broadway Family Medicine Clinic key player in Northside health

By Shaina Brassard, West Broadway Coalition The University of Minnesota Physicians, Broadway Family Medicine Clinic (BFM) has played an important part in the health of North Minneapolis for 40 years.

Like so many businesses and organizations along the West Broadway corridor, it’s both unassuming and strikingly exceptional and a place run by passionate, highly capable people that love what they do.

The state-of-the-art clinic on West Broadway is made special by a diverse team committed to the interconnected goals of providing quality medical care to the community and training the nation’s next generation of urban-based family doctors.

As the home to a University of Minnesota family medicine residency training program, BFM’s clinicians include 18 faculty doctors and 30 residents participating in a three year program. It’s important to note that the residents aren’t students,

Alicia Uzarek

Stephanie Harr and Dr. Mike Wootten of BFM at the West Broadway Farmer’s Market

Shaina Brassard

From L to R: Linda Davis, Brittany Mayberry, Gladys Burton, and Barb Bazoff but medical doctors that have finished medical school and chosen to specialize in family medicine. Resident physicians receive additional training under

the guidance of the clinic’s faculty doctors so that they can qualify to take their board exams.

The BFM’s program is one of the best of its kind in the country.

Each year, 140 doctors from all over the country interview for a chance at 10 resident slots.

Family medicine as a specialty aims to provide

continuing, comprehensive health care for the individual and family, emphasizing prevention and wellness and a knowledge of the patient in the context of the family and the community.

Unlike many other clinics, BFM’s work is not limited to the clinic’s walls; it is associated with North Memorial Hospital, where BFM doctors follow their patients to deliver babies and

provide other medical care to patients in hospital.

Dr. Michael Wootten, the clinic’s Program Director, has been at BFM for 18 years.

Wootten oversees the resident training, and he also has what is known as a panel of patients that he sees consistently. In his opinion, being a residency

BFM TURN TO 5

Katrice Albert named new VP for Equity and Diversity University of Minnesota President Eric Kaler has announced that Dr. Katrice Albert will be the university’s new vice president for Equity and Diversity, effective June 28, 2013, pending approval by the Board of Regents.

“I am delighted to welcome Dr. Albert to the U,” said Kaler.

“She is a visionary leader who brings a wealth of experience working with underserved and diverse communities, a deep understanding of the land-grant mission and a strong focus on assessment and accountability.

She also has a strong commitment to the role of K-12 outreach in supporting access to the University of Minnesota system.”

Albert comes from Louisiana State University (LSU), where she has served since 2005 as the institution’s chief diversity officer. In

University News Service

Dr. Katrice Albert was named vice president for Equity and Diversity on Dec. 7, 2012. that role, she developed and implemented strategic initiatives and policies aimed at cultivating a campus environment that embraces individual difference,

sustains inclusion and enhances institutional access and equity.

As a member of the senior leadership group, Albert will lead the university’s access,

equity and diverse multicultural resources and programs, and play an important role in advancing excellence at the University of Minnesota. She will also work collaboratively with diverse Minnesota communities and uphold educational and employment equity as core values of the university.

“It is a great honor to join the University of Minnesota system,” said Albert. “The U of M has ambitious diversity goals and, moving forward, I am thrilled to provide leadership to its ongoing work. I look forward to working collaboratively with the Board of Regents and the strong leadership teams on all five campuses to continue building upon a solid commitment to excellence through inclusiveness.”

Previously, Albert served in leadership positions in the Office of Multicultural Affairs

at LSU from 2001-2004, as a pre-doctoral intern/fellow in the Center for Multicultural Training in Psychology at the Boston University School of Medicine from 2000-2001, and as program coordinator for the Office of Multicultural Affairs at Auburn University from 19992000.

Albert holds a Ph.D. in counseling psychology. Her teaching experience includes serving as an adjunct professor in LSU’s College of Education, where she taught a graduate course on multicultural counseling. She also wrote, presented and consulted on issues of cultural competence, corporate social responsibility, educational and workforce diversity, gender and dynamics of power, the complexities of diverse populations, educational access, community university partnerships, and the application

of psychological knowledge to ethnic minorities and other underserved populations.

Albert has also demonstrated a strong commitment to and engagement in her local community, and has been the recipient of several women’s leadership awards, including being recognized by the National Diversity Council as one of Louisiana’s Most Powerful and Influential Women in 2010.

Associate Vice President for Equity and Diversity Kris Lockhart provided interim leadership during the search process and will serve in that role until Albert’s appointment commences in June.

University of Minnesota Duluth Chancellor Lynn Black and College of Education and Human Development Dean Jean Quam co-chaired the search committee for this position.

GOOD HEALTH CAN ALSO BE CONTAGIOUS. Find the plan that’s right for you at bluecrossmn.com.

Blue Cross® and Blue Shield® of Minnesota is a nonprofit independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

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Insight News • December 17 - December 23, 2012 • Page 3

Patina Park heads Division of Indian Work When Noya Woodrich moved into her new position with the Greater Minneapolis Council of Churches five months ago, she and the board of the Division of Indian Work set an ambitious goal of having a new executive director for DIW in place before the end of the year.

With three weeks to spare, that goal was met when interim director Roger Meyer welcomed Patina Park to the oldest direct-

Patina Park

DIW

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service organization for American Indians in the Twin Cities Before joining DIW, Park, a lawyer from the Cheyenne River tribe in South Dakota, was a child welfare project coordinator with the Ho-Chunk Nation Department of Justice. She has strong connections in Hennepin County, with Minnesota tribal communities and experience in tribal government. “I am very

excited by the opportunity and humbled by the excitement I am feeling,” she said. “DIW is a wonderful organization and I am optimistic that with everyone’s help, we can continue to expand its impressive impact.”

Woodrich said Park will be a good fit for the organization and that she has the skills and vision to lift DIW even higher. “Her organizational management and

fundraising abilities are stellar,” she said. “She is already well respected and connected in the community.”

Park has already met the DIW and GMCC staff members and she and Meyer are working together on a smooth transition. There will be additional opportunities for supporters and community members to get to know Patina better after the first of the year.

DIW, founded in 1952, empowers American Indian people through culturally-based education, counseling, advocacy and leadership development.

It is a partner with the Greater Minneapolis Council of Churches, a human-service nonprofit which also focuses on helping seniors, nurturing families, mentoring youth and fighting hunger.

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Page 4 • December 17 - December 23, 2012 • Insight News

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BUSINESS Tweepwise promotes Twitter efficacy Plan Your Career

By Julie Desmond julie@insightnews.com 140 characters.

Can every thought be drilled down to just 140 letters, numbers, hashtags and spaces? Can a really important or impactful idea be brought across in 140 keystrokes or less? Yes. Friendships have been made,

businesses have been developed and national revolutions have been launched on Twitter.

While many (most?) people have caught on to how to tweet generally, taking it to a more useful level is another story.

This week, I met with Josh Beccara, founder of Tweepwise, (www.tweepwise. com). Tweepwise is a St. Paul company dedicated to bringing businesses the “most authentic and responsible way to grow a highly targeted following on Twitter.” While his target customers are marketing folks who want to develop a relevant following and thus get their

name and brand out into the world effectively, he had a few recommendations for the smallbusiness user, as well.

In Josh’s experience, improving a Twitter profile is the first step to cultivating a strong following. Twitter Profile Optimization, he calls it, starts with improving your profile. Is your handle catchy enough? Your bio is searchable; does it contain the keywords that will lead customers to your profile? Are your background, photo and location information appropriate?

Josh suggests coming up with a few goals for what you

want Twitter to do for you. In my case, I want to connect with people who want new work; I want to quickly share information about job leads and useful career planning information with people who want to know; and I want to build a rapport with these people in order to be viewed as a trusted resource, someone who will help them when they need it.

Once you know what you want out of Twitter, you can easily make the tool work for you. Spend the time it takes one Saturday afternoon to update your profile background

and your bio.

Then, take a look at your stats. You should have about the same number of followers as people you are following. Remove those followers who look like spammers, aren’t interesting to you or are so far across the world that it makes no sense to keep them.

Next, choose ten or twenty or 100 people you want to follow. If they follow you back, great. If they don’t, consider unfollowing them for a while, and follow a few more. This is a give and take tool. Your best followers are people you actually stand some chance of

meeting in person someday.

Finally, think about how you are going to engage with all your new followers. Especially if you are new to the game, your posts should be thoughtful and interesting, a mix of some personal and some professional comments. Pay attention to other people on Twitter, and learn as you go along, so you can tweet smart, or Tweepwise, as Josh would say.

Julie Desmond is IT Recruiting Manager with George Konik Associates, Inc. Write to Julie at jdesmond@georgekonik. com.

How you can use Kindle to generate free business leads

By John S. Rizzo and V. Michael Santoro Special to the NNPA from the Milwaukee Community Journal Imagine Amazon sending you business leads regularly and even paying you to do so. Why would they do it?

“Amazon is desperate for reading material and you can publish your content for free as Kindle books,” says V. Michael Santoro, a managing partner with John S. Rizzo of Globe On-Demand, an internet

technology company. The two are also the co-authors of, “Niche Dominance: Creating Order out of your Digital Marketing Chaos,” (www.

NicheDominance.com).

“The twist is to use them as a generation system for sales leads.”

The audience is huge – Kindle is no longer just for people who purchase Kindle tablets. Amazon has also written Kindle Reader applications for every major smartphone, tablet, and computer including the Android phone or tablet, iPad, iPhone, Mac, Windows 8

Kindle Fire HD and the iPad 3 PC or tablet, BlackBerry, and Windows Phone 7, Santoro says.

“Most businesses hesitate to use Kindle to generate sales leads because they think they need to write an actual book,” says Rizzo, “But that’s not true.

You can write and publish short reports — as long as the content is original, of high quality and does not violate its Terms of Service (TOS), Amazon will publish your material.”

The key is to include a compelling free offer with a strong call to action and a link to a lead capture page – the page on your website where people can sign up for more information, special offers, your newsletter, etc.

And Amazon will even help market your book – for free!

When a new Kindle book is approved and published, Amazon will: • Feature it in their new releases section.

• Email their customer base announcing it to those who have previously purchased a Kindle book in that genre.

• Offer the Kindle KDP Select Program for ongoing free promotion.

• Allow customers to highlight, make notes, and share your book’s content via Twitter and other social networks.

“By enrolling in the free Kindle KDP Select Program, you give Amazon exclusivity

on a renewable 90-day basis,” Santoro says. “This program allows their readers to borrow your book from the Kindle Owners’ Lending Library, and when they do, Amazon pays you a royalty, as well as for book sales. However, the real benefit is that Amazon provides five days per quarter to give your book away for free.”

Why give your Kindle book away for free?

“Because, as a lead generation system, you want as many individuals as possible to download your Kindle book and visit your lead capture page, Santoro explains. Additionally, Amazon views each book download as a vote and rewards your book with higher page ranking. The more downloads, the better the chance of an Amazon Page 1 placement.

To create your Kindle report: • Use Amazon to determine what current Kindle books or paperbacks are published about your topic.

• Decide what information will be helpful to your potential customers. Make sure it is original and offers value. Avoid information that is easily found on the Internet.

• Create your report in Microsoft Word and include images if appropriate.

• Include your call to action – a message that prompts readers to visit your website — and link to your website’s lead capture page.

• Create a cover graphic.

Publishing on Kindle is fairly simple:

• Go to http://kdp.amazon.com and sign up for a free Kindle account.• Watch the “How To” Kindle publishing video.

• Fill out the Amazon Author Page to track your statistics.

• Reference the book on your website and link to your Amazon book page.

• Announce it on your Facebook, LinkedIn, Google+ and Twitter accounts.

“The goal is not to sell books, but rather to generate leads from Amazon’s huge customer base,” Rizzo says. An additional benefit is that you will differentiate yourself from the competition by being a published author. If your content is excellent and helpful, you will also build trust which will help to increase sales from these new leads.

John S. Rizzo obtained his bachelor’s degree in business administration and spent three years as a consultant for Amazon’s publishing group. He has assisted several businesses with digital marketing strategy and has served in leadership positions for multiple initiatives for the Charleston, S.C., Chamber of Commerce.

V. Michael Santoro has more than 10 years in the digital marketing field. His prior experience includes international senior marketing positions in technology fields.

He has a master’s degree and was an adjunct professor with the computer science department of Western Connecticut State University.

insightnews.com

Insight News • December 17 - December 23, 2012 • Page 5

COMMENTARY

Twins need to trade Joe Mauer Nobody Asked Me

By Fred Easter I fully expect President Obama and Speaker of the House, John Boehner will manage to do what the electorate needs them to do and I can turn my attention to an opinion on a local issue for a week.

The Twins need to trade Joe Mauer.

In a sport where pitchers are nearly half the roster, a team cannot be successful if one player,

a non-pitcher, consumes more than 20 percent of the payroll.

Half price, cut rate pitchers do not lead their teams into the playoffs.

Joe Mauer, while a lousy singer, is a great hitter, above average receiver and all around good guy – with or without his sideburns. I get that as a home grown product, it will be more painful to trade him than it was to move Kevin Garnett. It was probably unfortunate that the building of Target Field and Mauer’s free agent year nearly coincided. The Twins would’ve seemed money grubbing and miserly if they’d let this local legend leave via free agency while begging public money to help build the finest baseball venue in the nation. Now, the stadium is here and empty seats are beginning to appear as the

BFM From 2 training program with the University of Minnesota allows BFM to provide the absolute best care to its patients.

“For patients, you have these young, energetic, very intelligent people that are right at the crest of the wave of medical care, and then you have all of us old hats in the background watching over them,” said Wootten.

According to the director, medicine as a field is constantly evolving and advancing, and the newest doctors bring the most current knowledge. A patient’s care is commonly informed by at least two opinions; for Wootten, that combination of senior experience and fresh perspective means, “good problem solving.”

The desire to be in an environment that values learning, community and teamwork is shared throughout the clinic.

“I really do learn something new every day. In one sense or another we are all educators and

Shaina Brassard

Hattie Allen

we learn from each other, and we give that back to our patients,” said BFM nursing manager Pamela Winter, RN. Monica Stalling, who lives in the same neighborhood as the clinic, has worked there as a medical assistant since 1999.

“I love it. I love my coworkers because we’re such a close-knit family. I like that we watch patients grow up. It’s nice

Wikimedia Commons

Joe Mauer

Twins put together “worst in the league” win-loss records. In a trade, Mauer can command front line pitchers. Yeah, maybe two of them. And his salary savings

to live in the community and then help the community. People know me on the street and say, ‘Hey, that’s my nurse,’” Stalling relates with a smile.

Though there is yearly turnover for resident physicians, Stalling thinks her patients feel at home at BFM because of the continuity of the rest of the clinic staff. She explains, “It’s nice for them to come in and see a familiar face. They walk in and know (the usual person) will be there to greet them, they know I’m going to be there.” When a resident physician finishes the program, Stalling is there to introduce his or her patients to their new doctor and reassure them that they’ll, still get the same care they got with the former doctor.

Another long-serving staff member is Northsider, Linda Davis, a patient representative who has been with BFM for 16 years. She can be found at the front desk or working the phones in a side room.

“I do a lot of things actually.

I am the workers compensation and motor vehicle specialist for

could pay them without blowing up the payroll. No catcher, in the game, will hit with Mauer; but Drew Butera and Ryan Doumit are a more than adequate tandem.

Doumit can hit and Butera can shut down a running game.

Imagine our Twins running Josh Beckett or Zack Greinke out there every five days (though the latter will probably not happen as Greinke was just traded to the Dodgers).

I will miss Denard Span and Ben Revere, but, I understood the moves. We should still be able to field a better defensive outfield than any we had that included Delmon Young. Maybe I’m a purist, but, I like watching teams that are built on pitching and defense. I hate watching guys kick balls around the outfield while they’re thinking about their next

shot at that slider they whiffed on last inning. I miss the piranhas.

Hit, bunt, run the bases, do all the little things. Justin Morneau and Josh Willingham will be up soon.

Carl Pavano was a nice guy.

He ate innings, had a great work ethic and was probably a good influence on the younger arms.

But, 88 mph fastballs on the fists are a clear and present danger to folks sitting in the left field seats.

We need some power arms that can keep hitters from sitting on the pitches on the outside part of the plate. And, we need bona fide top of the rotation arms.

I must also say that I’m not impressed with the team’s ability to assess and develop pitching talent. Too many pitchers experience marked improvement when they leave – and don’t, when they stay. Francisco Liriano and

Nick Blackburn are examples of the latter. Examples of the former are too numerous to mention.

If we trade Mauer for already successful major league pitchers, our coaching weakness will hurt us less. I think Steve Little and Jerry White were scapegoats. If White’s responsibility was infield defense, he was hamstrung by an infield with faster moving parts than the cards in a three-card monte game.

Wish I could afford a few weeks in Ft. Myers, Fla. this February. It’s going to be interesting watching Gardy (Ron Gardenhire) and the guys construct a team from spare parts.

Two front line pitchers and one fewer catcher would help. But, then, nobody asked me, and nobody’s likely to.

the clinic. I collect insurance information or help people apply for insurance,” said Davis. She and her coworkers also rotate a post called patient advocacy, helping patients navigate through the healthcare maze, as well as connecting them to other community resources.

Davis is not shy about the fact that she loves what she does and feels good about it every day. She’s been working at BFM so long that she’s developed a relationship with many patients; she greets them by their names and is there to reassure them when there’s a wait. When training new coworkers, Davis emphasizes that the patient experience, “starts at the front, and then it moves on through the clinic. Communication is key here.”

It’s not hard to understand how Davis’ above and beyond efforts help to build patients’ confidence in their healthcare provider, making them more likely to seek out and better respond to the care they need.

Dr. Tria Lor is unique in that he is a resident physician and

North Minneapolis native.

“I grew up in the area, thus it is great working in my community. I also enjoy the relationships that I have with the staff, most of whom are from the community,” said Lor. “I am Hmong and fluent and thus able to care for many of the clinic’s Hmong speaking patients, especially the elderly.”

He feels that he and other residents are essential to the clinic because, “we are eager to care for patients, be a part of patients’ lives, and to learn and change things for the better.”

BFM saw 8,500 patients last year, half of them from the 55411 zip code.

BFM is also a state certified medical home, which means it offers additional services in an effort to counteract the fragmentation in healthcare and create a place where the patient belongs, especially for patients that have complicated illnesses that require specialists. The clinic employs bilingual care coordinators that assist patients with administrative issues and offer support between office

visits. The clinic also has a patient advisory committee, where patients provide feedback on programs and the general state of care. The committee meets every other month and is always looking for more patients to serve.

For these and many more reasons, Broadway Family Medicine is an outstanding neighborhood clinic, one with deep local roots and nationallyrecognized credentials. As Program Director Wootten said, it’s a clinic that, “wants to be aware of what’s going on in the community, what resources there are, and we want to be one of those important resources.”

University of Minnesota Physicians Broadway Family Medicine Clinic 1020 West Broadway Minneapolis, MN 55411 612-302-8200 (phones answered 24 hours) Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. www.umphysicians.org/ broadway

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Page 6 • December 17 - December 23, 2012 • Insight News

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EDUCATION NAACP report urges education reform

By Damon C. Williams Special to the NNPA from The Philadelphia Tribune The NAACP, in confronting the myriad debilitating issues facing public education nationwide, has released a report that contained four core areas in which the education sector should concentrate its efforts.

Those four areas are prekindergarten preparation, increased effective teaching, longer school days and school years and, finally, targeted education spending, where the proceeds from smart investments would go to the neediest students.

NAACP leadership and

members of the greater education community publicized the report during a press conference and call-in on Thursday.

“This report is a resource and roadmap for grassroots activists who want education reform in their community; our status as world leader in education is slipping,” said NAACP Education Director Beth Glenn, noting that America has steadily slid down the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development’s list, in regard to math, reading and science. “We want to improve the education system. If the United States is to remain competitive in the global marketplace, we must have a strong and innovative workforce.

To attain that workforce, we need to educate students at a

higher level than in the past.”

The NAACP further explained the four-pronged approach in the report. The first element, “Prekindergarten Prep for Achievement,” suggests that higher quality, universal prekindergarten programs that better prepare students for school; the second, “Effective Teaching,” seeks to better prepare teachers and make ensures that only the most qualified teachers lead classrooms.

“More Time, More Learning,” points to both a longer school day and an extended school year, while “Targeted Spending for Widespread Success” points to the better usage of the limited resources schools and school district have.

Agenda From 1 Morial was quick to say that the meeting did not represent the formation of another group, but a collaborative effort to send a clear message to the White House during President Obama’s second term.

More than three dozen leaders attended, including National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) Chairman Cloves Campbell, Southern Christian Leadership President Charles Steele and grassroots activist Ron Daniels, president of the Institute of the Black World 21st Century.

“We seek not to create a new organization, we seek to turn a corner towards a direction of being collective and proactive in the pursuit of the challenges our nation faces, said Morial.

Many of those challenges such as unemployment, poverty and health care disparities are far greater among Blacks, a group that supported Obama with 93 percent of their votes in

Freddie Allen/NNPA

Marc Morial, president and CEO of the National Urban League, addresses the media after meeting with more than 40 leaders on a “Black Agenda” in Washington, D.C. November.

In a joint statement following the meeting, the group wrote: “As we approach the 50th anniversary of the Great March on Washington and the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation, we must have a seat at the

table to fully leverage the talents, intellectual capital and contributions of our leaders to craft a domestic agenda that brings African-Americans closer to parity and equality, and fulfills the promises of these milestones.”

Morial summarized five priorities that would be fleshed

“If America is going to lead the world in this century the way we did the last, we must lead the world again in education,” said NAACP President and

CEO Benjamin Todd Jealous. “’Finding our Way Back To First’ is the road map for our activists, the communities they serve, and the nation as a whole. Our proposition is simple: if every public school does what the best schools do, every child will be able to get a great education. The NAACP has pushed America toward greatness before, and with this plan as our guide our army of advocates will do it again.”

United States Department of Education Secretary Arne Duncan hailed the department’s longstanding relationship with the civil rights organization, and said it is now beyond the time to act for the sake of children in the public school system.

“We need to approach this with a tremendous sense of urgency. While there are many individual success stories, we really have a crisis on our hands,” Duncan said, adding that the NAACP can play a unique role in advocacy. “A 25 percent drop-rate means a million students leave school for the streets every year, and in the African-American and Latino communities, the rate is 50, 60 percent. It devastates entire communities.

“Folks aren’t going to agree on everything, but our common enemy is academic failure,” Duncan continued. “We have to do this with a sense of urgency, and I am looking forward to a continued partnership with the NAACP.”

out in the new agenda: • Achieve economic parity for African-Americans • Promote equity in educational opportunity • Protect and defend voting rights.

• Promote a healthier nation by eliminating healthcare disparities • Achieve comprehensive reform of the criminal justice system “This is a first step towards developing a public policy agenda and we pledge to cooperate and work together with clearly defined objectives,” said Morial.

NAACP Washington Bureau Director Hilary Shelton agreed.

“It was important that we had this kind of conversation to begin utilizing our resources and coordinating even better and moving these initiatives forward through each of our own disciplines,” he said.

Morial said that the lesson to be learned is that we have to be proactive.

“We can’t wait and sit back and expect any elected official

to write an agenda,” Morial added. “We have to do it.”

Sharpton echoed that sentiment.

“We can not ask the president to write an agenda for us to himself,” explained Sharpton. “We need to take this from rhetoric to results from people saying we need an agenda to trying to sit down and collectively come up with one, from just complaining to convening and going forward.”

As a nation watched gay and Latino groups pressure President Obama to take definitive action on issues affecting their communities, critics of Black leaders have suggested that they didn’t complain enough during Obama’s first term.

Gay rights groups heckled President Obama during fundraising events and speeches. Latino leaders organized sit-ins near the White House in opposition to the deportation of undocumented immigrants.

In 2011, President Obama worked to repeal the Clinton era “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” policy on gay’s serving openly

in the military, and in 2012 Obama became the first sitting president to support gay marriage.

And while the DREAM Act, legislation geared towards immigration reform, stalled in Congress, President Obama announced in 2012 that his administration would stop deporting young undocumented immigrants.

When CNN contributor and host of TV ONE’s “Washington Watch” Roland Martin pressed Morial on how far the leaders were willing to go to ensure that the White House addressed their agenda and if they were willing to take “external action” similar to what the civil rights leaders took 50 years ago, the NUL leader refused to go into the details.

“We are not going to let anyone peep our cards today in terms of what we are going to do,” said Morial.

He said that the group of leaders will reconvene and plans to present the Black agenda to President Obama and every member of Congress early next year.

Benjamin T. Jealous

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Insight News • December 17 - December 23, 2012 • Page 7

AESTHETICS

Queen of the castle Interview

By Kam Williams kam@insightnews.com Tamala Jones has created a varied career based on her prodigious talent, working steadily in comedic and dramatic projects for both film and television. At 20 she made her feature film debut in How to Make an American Quilt as the great-grandmother of Maya Angelou’s character. That same year, she racked up television roles in The Wayans Bros., The Parent ‘Hood and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, as well as a recurring role as Joanie on ER. From there she joined the regular cast of the ABC drama Dangerous Minds, which gave her a chance to show her dramatic chops as a teenage mother facing parenthood and an abusive spouse.

In 1997 Jones landed a supporting role in the popular comedy Booty Call and a recurring turn on Veronica’s Closet. She was next featured in the teen comedy Can’t Hardly Wait. That same year she was cast in a more grown-up role as a divorcee on For Your Love, showcasing a winning combination of irreverent moxie and surprising sweetness.

Jones was featured in both the romantic drama The Wood and the action comedy Blue Streak, then was seen in the musical drama Turn it Up and the comedies The Ladies

Man and Next Friday. On television, she amassed credits that included a turn as Lucille of rock song fame in the biopic Little Richard.

In 2001 she renewed her focus on the big screen in supporting roles in the AfricanAmerican ensemble features The Brothers and Kingdom Come, which gave her the opportunity to create characters while working alongside more experienced performers. Later that year Jones was one of the women being schooled in the management of men by Vivica A. Fox’s savvy but stumped character in the comedy, Two Can Play That Game, and in On the Line she had a turn as an ambitious and controlling advertising executive who clashes with the idealistic hero, portrayed by *NSYNC’s Lance Bass.

In 2003 she worked opposite Chris Rock in Head of State and had a co-starring role as the wife of Traci Morgan in the self titled Traci Morgan Show. Since then, Jones has co-produced an independent movie, Nora’s Hair Salon, and starred in several more films, two of which were Daddy Day Camp, with Cuba Gooding Jr., and Janky Promoters, opposite Mike Epps.

In late 2009 she appeared on the big screen in the Oscarnominated feature Up in the Air, with George Clooney. In 2010 she completed post production on another independent film she co-produced entitled 35 and Ticking, in which she also stars alongside Nicole Ari Parker, Keith Robinson and Wendy Raquel Robinson.

KW: Tell me a little about your character, Dr. Lanie Parish.

TJ: She’s sassy, she knows her stuff, and she doesn’t play around.

KW: What type of research did you do to prepare for the role?

TJ: I read a lot of coroner books and I also watched a lot of reality crime shows like “Dr. G: Medical Examiner,” “The First 48” and “Forensic Files.”

KW: During the show’s third season, Lanie had a relationship with Detective Esposito, but they later broke up. Is there another romance in store for her this season?

TJ: I really don’t know.

[Executive producer and screenwriter] Andrew Marlowe is very secretive about what he has in store, so I have to wait and see what’s going to happen along with all you guys.

KW: You’ve done a lot of movies and TV shows. Which is your preference?

TJ: I love them both; I don’t have a preference. I wish I could do them both at the same time.

KW: How about drama versus comedy?

TJ: I love comedy, because I’m naturally a very silly person.

Tamala Jones Kam Williams: Hi, Tamala, thanks for the interview.

Tamala Jones: My pleasure!

KW: What interested you in Castle?

TJ: Playing a doctor because it was something that I’d never

John Ngyen

done before. And Nathan Fillion. I’d watched him and followed his whole career. He’s a great guy!

KW: Who would you like to paired opposite in a romantic comedy?

TJ: Bradley Cooper!

KW: What film director would you like to work with?

TJ: Steven Spielberg. I love

JONES TURN TO 11

BOOK REVIEW

Women of a New Tribe: A Photographic Celebration of the Black Woman just try. Perhaps in seeing their beauty, we will come to see what makes a woman truly beautiful… Just maybe we will come to understand that real beauty is more than that which can be seen. Real beauty is that which lifts us, real beauty touches our hearts.”

-- Jerry Taliaferro in the Preface (pg. 10)

By Kam Williams “African-American females have had a very difficult history: from slavery to racism to poverty. Although slavery has been abolished in this country, and we are working on eradicating racism and poverty, in the 21st Century, AfricanAmerican females face one of the most difficult hurdles we have ever had to face: a severe lack of self-respect.

We have allowed the media to make us believe that we must have straight hair, light skin, thin bodies and ’European’ features to be considered beautiful. This book is not only an opportunity to reaffirm to all black women that we are ‘fearfully and wonderfully made’ by God, but also an opportunity for everyone to see the emotions and beauty Jerry Taliaferro wrought through his camera lens.”

-- Cheryl A. M. Waymer, mother and model, as excerpted from the Foreword (pg. 7) “These beautiful women have

always been around us. They are our wives, mothers, sisters,

daughters and friends. We can see the beauty in them if we

Jerry Taliaferro is a West Point graduate who turned to photography full-time after leaving the military in 1988 following a decorated career in the service as a Special Forcers Officer. Over the intervening years, he has met with considerable success at his true calling, though devoting most of his attention to commercial assignments.

Recently, however, after preparing a single portrait of an African-American female originally intended simply to serve as a sample in his portfolio, Jerry was struck by the fact that “Very little attention had been paid to the beauty of the black woman. The black

woman was almost invisible.”

So, he came up with the novel idea of portraying sisters in a glamorous style from the Forties reminiscent of the classic, black and white fashion shoots of such classic Hollywood actresses as Greta Garbo and Katherine Hepburn.

The upshot of his efforts is an enchanting, emotionallyengaging and spirituallystimulating masterpiece entitled “Women of a New Tribe: A Photographic Celebration of the Black Woman.” Taliaferro proves himself to be quite a gifted artist behind the camera with this eclectic collection of over 100 photos. For the images of this impressive collection achieve far more than merely capturing each model’s physical beauty. No, the pictures also magically reveal an intimate aspect of the subjects’ souls as well.

It is noteworthy that this groundbreaking tome features

a rainbow of African-American females in terms of color, shape, size and age, and not just ones who meet a shallow Eurocentric standard of beauty. “What about the jet black goddess with skin like glass, the caramel toned Amazon or the GreatGrandmother whose beauty defies time?” the author asks in the Introduction. “This book is an attempt to see them too.”

Indeed, an overdue homage which wonderfully elevates and illustrates both the inner and outer beauty of all sisters, a segment of society often taken for granted, if not denigrated or marginalized by the mainstream culture.

Women of a New Tribe: A Photographic Celebration of the Black Woman

by Jerry Taliaferro Amazon Digital Services Digital Edition, $8.00 180 pages ISBN: 978-0-9797309-0-0

Page 8 • December 17 - December 23, 2012 • Insight News

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LIFESTYLE HOLIDAY SEASON

Great tips for holiday gift baskets (StatePoint) Looking for a thoughtful gift this holiday season? Give a gift basket!

Don’t be intimidated by the task -- it`s easy to create the perfect gift basket for even the fussiest person.

“A food basket is a welcome gift for all occasions,” says Bonnie Tempesta, founder of the cookie company Boncora Biscotti. “You can make it as elegant, whimsical or celebratory as you want -- and at whatever cost your budget allows.”

Gift baskets also offer a chance to inject some personality into a gift.

“What you choose to put in a gift basket is a reflection of who you are as a gift giver,” says Jean Thompson, Owner and CEO of Seattle Chocolates, maker of premium chocolate bars and truffles. “It`s a great way to share your good taste.”

Follow these simple tips to make unique gift baskets for everyone on your list: • Decide what you want to include before you buy the basket so you can pick the right size. No matter what size basket you use, it should be overflowing.

• If a traditional wooden basket isn`t your style, look for

other vessels: a colorful paper bag, a pretty pastry box, a flower pot. The possibilities are endless -- and inexpensive.

• Fill the basket with higherand lower-priced items to keep overall costs down. Include items of varying heights to add visual interest.

• Arrange the contents around a theme, such as all things red or everything handmade or all chocolate!

• Choose foods you love or products you`re excited about trying. Chances are, if you were wowed by a treat, your gift recipient will be too.

• “Go for edibles that don’t need to be eaten right away,” says Edmond Sanctis, co-founder of Sahale Snacks. “Treats that

GIFTS TURN TO 11

StatePoint

Stay safe at home over the holidays Minnesota Department Public Safety and Department of Health officials are urging Minnesotans to be aware of safety hazards in the home as they celebrate the holidays and settle in for the winter.

Fires, unsafe toys and carbon monoxide are among the biggest

concerns this time of year, said Dr. Ed Ehlinger, Minnesota Commissioner of Health.

“The holiday season and the beginning of winter are a time for joy and celebration, but they also pose special risks,” Dr. Ehlinger said. “As people alter their normal routines for the holidays and begin

spending more time indoors, they should take steps to protect themselves and their families.”

Fires According to State Fire Marshal Jerry Rosendahl, 80 percent of the 56 fire deaths in Minnesota during 2011 occurred in the home - and residential fires occur most frequently during the holiday season. Last year, 166 home fires

were reported between Dec. 24 and Jan. 1.

Every year, the leading causes of fires are cooking incidents, candles or other open flames, and heating problems. Careless smoking is the leading cause of fire deaths.

The State Fire Marshal offers

SAFETY TURN TO 13

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Insight News • December 17 - December 23, 2012 • Page 9

HEALTH PART 1 OF 3

Prediabetes: A serious wake up call for health Our Health

By Nicole Winbush MD This article is the first in a threepart series about prediabetes. This articles reviews the increasingly common health condition of prediabetes and describes how you can find out if you have or are at risk for this condition.

Subsequent articles will address common misconceptions about prediabetes and action steps that we can take as individuals and as communities to prevent and reverse this condition.

What is prediabetes?

Prediabetes is a condition where individuals have elevated blood sugars but these sugar levels are not quite high enough to meet the criteria for diabetes. Someone who has one of the following (on repeated testing) meets the definition of prediabetes: a fasting blood sugar between 100 - 125, a blood sugar 2 hours following a standardized glucose challenge test between 140-199, or a Hemoglobin A1c (a number that

provides a sense of average blood sugar over the past 3 months) of ≥ 5.7 and less than 6.5.

A silent health epidemic in our communities The majority of people who have prediabetes do not even know it.

It is estimated that approximately 80 million Americans (one quarter of the US population!) have prediabetes, and a significant number of these individuals will go on to develop full blown diabetes each year. The number of prediabetics (and diabetics) is expected to climb over the next decade and research has shown that many individuals in the prediabetes range are already at increased risk for heart disease and other cardiovascular complications. However, with knowledge and the motivation to make lifestyle changes, it is often possible to reverse the metabolic changes that lead to prediabetes.

It is more than just high blood sugar In many ways the term prediabetes is an oversimplification. It makes people think that it is all about the blood sugar. However, as I often discuss in this column, health and disease involve an interplay between many factors. In the case of prediabetes, it is more than just high blood sugar. The high blood sugar is a symptom of

the underlying dis-ease process.

The food we eat, how we sleep at night, how we manage stress in our lives and how much we move our body, all of these affect

still be carrying around excess fat around their middle that is not readily apparent. So, it is not just about losing a certain number of pounds. When attempting to lose

Prediabetes is a condition where individuals have elevated blood sugars but these sugar levels are not quite high enough to meet the criteria for diabetes.

our health and can have impacts (directly and indirectly) on our blood sugar.

If my blood sugar is high, don’t I just need to lose weight?

Oftentimes, prediabetes is diagnosed when individuals begin to put on more weight (especially around the middle) and for many individuals a weight loss program can improve blood sugars.

However, many individuals who are considered to be a normal weight or even look thin may

weight, it is important to maintain a balanced eating plan that provides enough calories so that your body does not end up burning muscle. This is also why physical activity during weight loss is so important. Regular physical activity (walking, bicycling, some weight training, etc.) while losing weight will assist your body in maintaining needed muscle.

What can you do?

First assess your risk Knowledge can often provide the

motivation and power we need to make changes. So first, find out and assess your situation and risk factors for prediabetes. Some of these tests you can do yourself.

First, measure your waist. You can do this by getting a flexible tape measure and measuring the distance around your waist which is located 1/2 way between the top of your hip bone and your bottom rib. This may or may not be where you wear your pants. For women, an ideal waist circumference is 35 inches or less and for men it is 40 inches or less.

If your waist measures more than this, it is a sign that you are likely carrying excess fat tissue around your middle. This increased fat distribution around the middle can lead to higher risk for prediabetes.

Next, see your healthcare provider or participate in a health screening.

Get your blood pressure, blood sugar and your cholesterol checked.

I recommend that you do not just get a fasting blood sugar, as individuals who have prediabetes may often have normal fasting blood sugars but have elevated blood sugars following eating.

An A1c or glucose challenge test will give a more accurate picture of your blood sugar control. Also, get your cholesterol checked, as individuals at risk for developing prediabetes will often have cholesterol test abnormalities.

In the coming weeks, I will discuss common misconceptions regarding prediabetes and steps that you can take to lessen your chances to develop prediabetes and diabetes and to help reduce your blood sugars if you already have these conditions. In the meantime, work on gathering your numbers and thinking about your personal health priorities for the coming year.

Dr. Winbush is a family physician practicing at NorthPoint Health and Wellness Center. She has a strong interest in wellness and patient education to help individuals feel empowered to optimize their health and functioning.

Please provide feedback, leave suggestions for future articles and find additional resources as mentioned in the article at www. functionwellmedicine.com.

The information contained herein should not be used as a substitute for the advice of an appropriately qualified and licensed physician or other health care provider. The information provided here is for educational and informational purposes only.

In no way should it be considered as offering medical advice. Please check with a healthcare provider if you suspect you are ill.

Perchlorate: Drinking water peril? national standards for how much perchlorate can be allowed in drinking water without putting people at risk. As part of the process, the agency is studying the available science on the health effects of perchlorate exposure and evaluating laboratory methods for measuring, treating and removing perchlorate in drinking water. The

Comstock/Thinkstock

Eleven million Americans live in areas where concentrations of perchlorate -- a chemical used in the production of rocket fuel, missiles, fireworks, flares and explosives -- are significantly higher in public drinking water supplies than what is considered safe.

By EarthTalk® E - The Environmental Magazine Dear EarthTalk: What is “perchlorate” in our drinking water supply and why is it controversial?

- David Sparrow, Chico, CA Perchlorate is both a naturally occurring and man-made chemical used in the production of rocket fuel, missiles, fireworks, flares and explosives. It is also sometimes present in bleach and in some fertilizers. Its widespread release into the environment is

primarily associated with defense contracting, military operations and aerospace programs.

Perchlorate can be widespread in ground water, soils and plants, and makes its way up the food chain accordingly—even into organically grown foods. To wit, A 2005 Journal of Environmental Science and Technology study using ion chromatography to find contaminants in agricultural products found quantifiable levels of perchlorate in 16 percent of conventionally produced lettuces and other leafy greens and in 32 percent of otherwise similar but organically produced samples.

Today, traces of perchlorate are found in the bloodstreams of just about every human on the planet.

Perchlorate in the environment is a health concern because it can disrupt the thyroid’s ability to produce hormones needed for normal growth and development. Besides its potential to cause endocrine system and reproductive problems, perchlorate is considered a “likely human carcinogen” by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Some 11 million Americans live in areas where concentrations of perchlorate in public drinking water supplies are significantly higher than what is considered safe.

Per the mandate of the Safe Drinking Water Act, the EPA is currently working on setting

Despite overall improvement, gaps persist for American Indian teens, teens of color Collectively, Minnesota’s teens are doing better today on key health measures than they were in the 1990s, according to a recent analysis by the Minnesota Department of Health.

Since the 1990s, students 12 to 19 years old from all racial and ethnic groups have experienced substantial declines in rates of smoking cigarettes, binge drinking, sexual activity, hitting or beating up another person, carrying a weapon on school property, drinking pop or soda, and riding in a car without a seat belt, according to The Health and Well-Being of Minnesota’s Adolescents of Color and American Indians: A Data Book (PDF: 3.62MB/86 pages) from the Minnesota Department of Health. One exception is the level of emotional distress,

which has remained basically the same since the mid-1990s.

This marks the first time, the Minnesota Department of Health has systematically compared the health of teens from different ethnic and racial backgrounds, White, Latino, African-American, Asian, and American Indian, and found a persistent wellness gap between Minnesota’s white adolescents and its adolescents of color and American Indians.

“This teen fact book shows that efforts in some targeted areas have been working to protect adolescents of color and American Indians, but it also shows that much more needs to be done,” said Ed Ehlinger, Minnesota Commissioner of Health. “With its increasing diversity Minnesota cannot thrive without creating more opportunities for improving

the health of these teens who will be tomorrow’s leaders, innovators, workers, business owners, and parents.”

The number of American Indian and adolescents of color in Minnesota has doubled since 1990. Currently, one-quarter of Minnesota’s public school students are students of color or American Indians.

One area of success has been teen pregnancy. Birth rates for teens 15 to 19 years of age have declined in all racial-ethnic groups since the 1990’s. The largest decline has occurred among AfricanAmerican teens, where the birth rate fell from 169 per thousand in 1992 to 64 per thousand in 2009.

The data book paints a picture of American Indian

GAP TURN TO 10

EPA will publish a proposed rule on the matter for public review at some point in 2013.

“We are happy that the EPA is moving ahead with a drinking water standard...but we are concerned that it won’t be strict enough,” reports Renee Sharp of the nonprofit Environmental Working Group (EWG). The

group would like to see the U.S. adopt “a truly health-protective drinking water standard lower than 1 ppb [parts per billion]” for perchlorate. Insiders don’t believe federal policymakers will go that low, however, since the EPA says

WATER TURN TO 14

Page 10 • December 17 - December 23, 2012 • Insight News

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FULL CIRCLE

What Christmas is all about Man Talk

By Timothy Houston What is Christmas all about?

What is the real meaning of Christmas? In 1965, CBS debut the animated TV special “A Charlie Brown Christmas” to address this all important question. At the beginning of the program, the main character Charlie Brown confides in Linus that even though Christmas is approaching, he still feels depressed due to the over-commercialization of Christmas. Is Christmas overcommercialized? If we don’t keep things in perspective, this season can easily become overwhelming.

Eventually, Charlie Brown had to visit Lucy in her psychiatric booth. So to

Gap From 9 children and those of color being more likely to start off with economic and educational disadvantages that put them at greater risk regarding drugs,

rehearsals, but he is unable control the situation as the uncooperative kids are more interested in modernizing the

help you enjoy this Christmas season, here are few important lessons to learn from “A Charlie Brown Christmas.”

First, there is more to Christmas than just presents.

Become more involved in the things that connect you to the real meaning of Christmas.

On Lucy’s advice, Charlie Brown agreed to direct a school nativity play. Look around.

There are opportunities to give of yourself at church, school, and throughout the community.

These things will help remind you of the real meaning of Christmas.

Next, not everyone is on the same journey as you. On the way to the auditorium, Charlie Brown stops by Snoopy’s doghouse, only to find out that even his own dog has gone commercial. He later runs into his sister Sally, who asks him to write her letter to Santa Claus requesting large sums of money.

For some, it is about getting. To them, it is more about the cost of the gift than the spirit it was

given in. The financial pressure of keeping up with the “Jones” can be overwhelming. Steer clear of people and events that

add to your frustration.

Thirdly, there are some situations during this holiday season that are outside of your control. Choose your battles.

Charlie Brown arrives at the

play with dancing and lively music. Charlie Brown in an effort not to let the play become too commercial decides to focus on the traditional side of the story. To bring everyone back

teen pregnancy, stress, violence, and other hazards, as they move through the teen years.

Data are drawn from the 2010 Minnesota Student Survey and other sources. Poverty rates are three to five times higher among American Indian adolescents and those of color compared to white adolescents, and failure

to graduate on time is two to three times higher. These factors contribute to AfricanAmerican, American Indian, and Hispanic youth generally experiencing negative health much more often than white adolescents.

The Health Department collected the data to further its

efforts to close the wellness gap between white children and American Indian children and children of color.

“Parents know what puts their children at risk – lack of healthy activities, drugs, tobacco, alcohol, auto accidents and unsafe people and environments,” Ehlinger

Look around. There are opportunities to give of yourself at church, school, and throughout the community.

These things will help remind you of the real meaning of Christmas.

in focus he decides they need a Christmas tree. It’s ok to go against the grain. Make sure the choices you make this season reflect how you truly feel.

Finally, Christmas is a wonderful time of the year.

Never give up on your quest for the true meaning. Some people will laugh, while others will help. Charlie Brown was determined. With Linus in tow, he sets off on his quest. When they get to the tree market, he zeroes in on a small baby tree which, ironically as well as symbolically, is the only real tree on the lot. They return to the school auditorium with the tree and everybody laughs at him. In desperation, Charlie Brown begins to wonder if he really knows what Christmas is all about. Linus steps in to help and recites the second chapter of the Gospel of Luke, verses 8 through 14: “And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo,

the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not; for, behold, I bring you tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you: Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace and goodwill towards men.” “...

And that’s what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.”

said. “We plan to use these data to work with our community partners to achieve the goal of making sure that all the children in Minnesota have an equal opportunity for success.”

In September, MDH held a community forum to share the data and convene leaders from racial and ethnic communities.

A panel of community professionals working with youth led a lively discussion at the forum. Jina Downwind Jubera, director of the Omniciye youth program at the Little Earth community in south Minneapolis, said the findings of this report are “the legacy of cultural trauma that is still with us today. We have to involve young people in strengthening the American Indian community and connect our youth back to our community and culture.”

Verna Cornelia Price, founder and director of Girls in Action, emphasized the importance of straight, honest talk with teen girls. The purpose of Girls in Action is to convince and help teenage girls to focus on building a future and showing them how they can do that. The program promotes strong positive expectations for girls, including staying away from sexual involvement to focus on a future that includes graduating from high school in four years and attending college. “We try to catch them before the downward spiral that often afflicts teen girls can gain momentum,” Price said.

Jennifer Godinez, associate director of the Minnesota Minority Education Partnership, urged the audience to advocate for a public policy approaches that help students complete their post-secondary education. “We need to create a strong talent development infrastructure that develops

pathways for our youth.”

Parts of the Health Department, such as the Office of Minority and Multicultural Health, the Statewide Health Improvement Program, and the Community and Family Health Division, are currently implementing the following strategies to improve adolescent health: Protect teens from obesity and chronic diseases in later life by working with communities and schools to improve nutrition and physical activity.

Protect teens from the risks of tobacco, alcohol, and drugs by reducing access to these substances and increasing their costs, helping parents to monitor their kids, and providing teens with positive opportunities for engagement in academics, sports and recreational activities.

Protect teens from pregnancy and sexual diseases by promoting healthy youth development, parental involvement, education and communication about sexual and reproductive health issues such as abstinence and contraception.

Protect teens from injury and violence through car safety programs, protective head gear, and safer communities.

More information, including the report, is available at http:// www.health.state.mn.us/divs/ chs/mss.

This year, MDH also completed the Minnesota Adolescent Sexual & Reproductive Health Data Book, which provides additional data on pregnancy rates, sexuallytransmitted infections, and HIV/ AIDS among young people of different racial-ethnic groups.

This report can be found at http://www.health.state.mn.us/ youth/pubs.html.

Timothy Houston is an author, minister, and motivational speaker who is committed to guiding positive life changes in families and communities.

For questions, comments or more information, go to www. tlhouston.com.

insightnews.com

Insight News • December 17 - December 23, 2012 • Page 11

Millennial Jobs Report: Youth unemployment at 10.9 percent WASHINGTON -- Generation Opportunity a national, non-partisan organization advocating for Millennials ages 18-29, is announcing its Millennial Jobs Report for November 2012. The data is non-seasonally adjusted (NSA) and is specific to 18-29 year olds: The overall unemployment rate for 18-29 year olds for November 2012 is 10.9 percent (NSA).

The unemployment rate

Jones From 7 him. I respect him. And he gave us E.T. KW: The Tasha Smith question: Are you ever afraid?

TJ: Yes. I’m afraid that I won’t do a good job when I go into an audition.

KW: The Columbus Short question: Are you happy?

TJ: Yes! KW: The Teri Emerson question: When was the last time you had a good laugh?

TJ: Just the other day. A friend of mine made me watch a video on Youtube, “Hot Cheetos and Takis.” I don’t know what a Taki is but those kids were rocking out and that was so funny to me.

Gifts From 8 can be nibbled and shared all season long are ideal gift basket additions.”

for 18-29 year old AfricanAmericans for November 2012 is 18.5 percent (NSA); the unemployment rate for 18-29 year old Hispanics for November 2012 is 12.5 percent (NSA); and the unemployment rate for 18–29 year old women for November 2012 is 10.5 percent (NSA).

The declining labor force participation rate has created an additional 1.7 million young adults that are not counted as “unemployed” by the U.S.

Department of Labor because they are not in the labor force, meaning that those young people have given up looking for work due to the lack of jobs.

If the labor force participation rate were factored into the 18-29 unemployment calculations, the actual Millennial unemployment rate would rise to 16.4 percent (NSA).

“Today’s unemployment picture for Millennials offers little in the way of promise

for a generation in which genuine opportunities continue to be few and far between.

Expected temporary seasonal hiring brought the overall 1829 year old unemployment rate to 10.9 percent. However, more than 1.7 million young adults are still not counted by the Department of Labor as unemployed because they have given up looking for work due to the lack of available jobs. If you factor in those young adults, the Millennial

unemployment rate rises to 16.4 percent, which is virtually identical to last month,” said Matthew Faraci, Senior Vice President for Communications at Generation Opportunity and a former U.S. Labor Department spokesperson.

“Millennials have high expectations of those who were elected in November and are eager for the kind of real job growth that would finally, after years of stagnation, afford them a chance to put their substantial skills to work.”

The November jobs report is the first since the 2012 Presidential Election, when Millennials voiced historic frustration with the lack of access to opportunity at the voting booth. According to national exit polling published

by The New York Times, the incumbent candidate’s margin of support among 18-29 year olds dropped 11 points from 2008 levels.

PRNewswireUSNewswire

KW: What is your guiltiest pleasure?

TJ: Laying in bed and sleeping all day.

KW: The Sanaa Lathan question: What excites you?

TJ: Hopping on a plane and going to discover a new island I haven’t been to before.

be?

TJ: Abraham Lincoln. I really want to talk to him and understand why he wanted to free the slaves. The real reason, not the one stated in history books.

KW: The Kerry Washington question: If you were an animal, what animal would you be?

TJ: A Tiger!

people share?

TJ: I think that we all share the will to succeed, drive. We never give up.

KW: The Pastor Alex Kendrick question: When do you feel the most content?

TJ: When I’m working and my love life is in order. When things are in order, when I can put food on the table and I’m healthy, I’m content.

KW: What advice do you have for anyone who wants to follow in your footsteps?

TJ: Never give up. Always be yourself. Don’t feel like you have to change who you are to be successful. As long as you’re true to yourself and you never give up, you will succeed.

KW: The bookworm Troy Johnson question: What was the last book you read?

TJ: “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho. http://www.amazon.com/exec/ o b i d o s / A S I N / 0 0 6 11 2 2 4 1 6 / ref=nosim/thslfofire-20 KW: The music maven Heather Covington question: What was the last song you listened to?

TJ: Tammi Terrell’s “All I Do Is Think about You.” http:// w w w. a m a z o n . c o m / e x e c / obidos/ASIN/B00005V1AY/ ref=nosim/thslfofire-20 KW: What is your favorite dish to cook?

TJ: Macaroni and cheese.

• Splurge on indulgences your recipient normally wouldn`t buy for him or herself, like limitededition holiday chocolate from Seattle Chocolates. You can find a wide range of such products in all colors and styles to suit any gift basket theme at www.

KW: The Uduak Oduok question: Who is your favorite clothes designer?

TJ: I love Yves Saint Laurent. I love Chanel. And Versace! Such beautiful gowns!

KW: Dante Lee, author of “Black Business Secrets,” asks: What was the best business decision you ever made, and what was the worst?

TJ: I made the best business decision at 14 when I decided to get into acting. The worst was owning 2 homes at the same time.

KW: The Michael Ealy question: If you could meet any historical figure, who would it SeattleChocolates.com.

• Add a food item that’s new or hard to find. For example, Boncora Biscotti, available only online, are handmade to order.

Plain or dipped in chocolate, they go great with a cup of joe, so pair this gift with some gourmet

KW: When you look in the mirror, what do you see?

TJ: A silly, crazy girl living in a woman’s body.

KW: If you could have one wish instantly granted, what would that be for?

TJ: To end hate and world hunger.

KW: The Ling-Ju Yen question: What is your earliest childhood memory?

TJ: Making up stories and playing them out in the backyard. That was my favorite pastime.

coffee. Read more about Bonnie Tempesta’s handcrafted biscotti at www.BoncoraBiscotti.com.

• Include unusual flavor combinations that can be used for snacking as well as cooking.

Sahale Crunchers almond snacks can be eaten out of hand or used

KW: The Toure question: Who is the person who led you to become the person you are today?

TJ: My grandmother. I’m definitely a grandma’s baby. My mom was always there but my grandmother is the reason I am who I am.

KW: The Judyth Piazza question: What key quality do you believe all successful for holiday meal prep. Plus, they’re gluten free. Find delicious recipes at www.SahaleSnacks. com.

• Use colorful, recyclable paper, like tissue paper or shredded paper, to fluff up the contents of your basket.

KW: The Tavis Smiley question: How do you want to be remembered?

TJ: As a kind, fun-loving beautiful person inside.

KW: Thanks again for the time, Tamala, and best of luck with the film.

TJ: Thank you, Kam! It was a pleasure!

• The finishing touch on a gift basket is not the shrink wrap; it`s the note. Tell your gift recipient why you chose what you did!

With these tips, you’re sure to create a gift your friends and family will appreciate.

Page 12 • December 17 - December 23, 2012 • Insight News

Volunteer From 1 among states for parent volunteer rates. The Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area ranked highest of all metropolitan areas with a 37 percent volunteerism rate.

The findings come from Volunteering and Civic Life in America, a report issued by the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) in partnership with the National

Conference on Citizenship (NCoC).

The report also finds that nationally, parents of school-aged children contributed more than 2.5 billion hours of their time to volunteer efforts in 2011, most of it to school-based projects, underscoring the pivotal role that schools play as hubs for local volunteer efforts.

Overall, 64.3 million Americans (more than one in four adults) volunteered through a formal organization last year, an increase of 1.5 million from

2010. The 7.9 billion hours these individuals volunteered is valued at $171 billion. Among citizens who volunteered through an organization, the top activities included fundraising or selling items to raise money (26.2 percent); collecting, preparing, distributing, or serving food (23.6 percent); engaging in general labor or transportation (20.3 percent); or tutoring or teaching (18.2 percent).

In addition to this formal volunteering, two out of three Americans (65.1 percent or 143.7 million individuals) volunteered informally by doing favors for and helping out their neighbors, an increase of 9.5 percentage points from last year. Among other key findings, almost half of Americans (44.1 percent) actively participated in civic, religious, and school groups.

“Volunteering and civic engagement are the cornerstone of a strong nation,” said Wendy Spencer, CEO of CNCS, a federal agency that supports and strengthens volunteering through its AmeriCorps and Senior Corps programs, which collectively engaged 3.7 million Americans in volunteering in 2011. “Hurricane Sandy provides a prime example of the importance of people working together, with volunteers throughout the Northeast and elsewhere in the country stepping up to support recovery and relief efforts. When volunteers and residents come together, it has a positive and powerful impact on a community.”

The report shows the volunteer rate among parents is seven percentage points higher than the national average (33.7 percent compared to 26.8 percent).

Nearly half of parents in their late forties with school-aged children volunteer, despite time-consuming child-rearing responsibilities.

Among working mothers, the volunteer rate is nearly 40 percent.

U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan said the findings reinforce how community participation is an essential factor in school success.

“CNCS’s report crystallizes that our schools are essential hubs for volunteering and civic activity,” said Secretary Duncan. “Every day, AmeriCorps and Senior Corps members help more than three million disadvantaged youth by serving as teachers, tutors, mentors, and counselors.” Duncan added that, “In America, education must be the great equalizer—and robust engagement from communities, families, mentors, tutors, and other volunteers is absolutely vital to achieving that core American ideal. As a nation, we are so much stronger working together collaboratively to advance student learning than working in isolation.”

The report also ranks all 50 states and the nation’s largest cities and metropolitan areas for their volunteering and engagement rates. It has become a useful tool for elected officials, civic leaders, and nonprofit executives who recognize the economic impact of an engaged community.

“Volunteering and Civic Life in America helps tell the story of the quiet civic reawakening we see happening around the country—a story about people helping communities devastated

by Hurricane Sandy; serving on the PTA; connecting with friends through social media; and advocating for their favorite causes,” said Ilir Zherka, executive director of NCoC. “We believe this data shines a light on this reawakening, and is essential to inspiring all sectors of our society to work together to bolster it.”

The full report is available at www.volunteeringinamerica.gov.

Key Findings: States and Metropolitan Areas The top five states for volunteering are Utah (40.9 percent), Idaho (38.8 percent), Iowa (38.4 percent), Minnesota (38.0 percent) and South Dakota (36.8 percent).

The five states with the greatest percentage point increase in volunteering from last year are Delaware (+5.3 percent), Oregon (+5.0 percent), Alaska (+4.4 percent), Georgia (+3.7 percent), and Idaho (+3.7 percent).

The survey results indicate that some gains for Delaware and Oregon were due to increases in collecting/distributing food when volunteering (+1.0 percent, Delaware; +2.3 percent, Oregon).

The top five metro areas for volunteering are Minneapolis-St Paul-Bloomington, Minn-Wis. (37 percent), Rochester, N.Y. (34.8 percent), Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, Wash. (33.4 percent), Salt Lake City, Utah (33.2 percent) and Jacksonville, Fla. (32.2 percent).

The five metro areas with the greatest gains in volunteering are San Diego-Carlsbad-San Marcos, Cal. (+7.2 percent), Louisville, Ken. (+7.1 percent), SacramentoArden-Arcade-Roseville, Cal. (+6.3 percent), Austin-Round Rock, Tex. (+5.6 percent), and Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, Fla. (+5.4 percent).

Key Findings: Parents (who have

insightnews.com children under 18 years of age at home) The parent volunteering rate in 2011 was 33.7 percent nationwide, which is a 0.1 percentage point increase from the prior year.

This translates to 22.7 million parents volunteering with a formal organization for approximately 2.5 billion hours, which is valued at $54 billion.

Parents between the ages of 26 and 50 with school-aged children volunteered at a significantly

higher rate than non-parents in this age range, with volunteering rates for parents peaking at nearly one in two parents (46 percent) in their late 40s.

Working mothers are a key segment of volunteering parents, as nearly four in 10 (38 percent) volunteered.

The top five states for parent volunteering rates are Utah (52.0 percent); South Dakota (46.2 percent); Iowa (45.9 percent); Minnesota (45.0 percent); and

Wisconsin (44.3 percent).

Schools and other youth service organizations are the most popular places for parents to volunteer.

More than 40 percent (43.1 percent) of parents volunteered at one of these places.

Parents also expressed some or a great deal of confidence in the public schools their children attend, with nine out of 10 parents (90.4 percent) in 2011 feeling this way.

insightnews.com

Insight News • December 17 - December 23, 2012 • Page 13

PUZZLES

Safety From 8 these safety tips: Holiday Decorations: If you have a real tree, water it daily.

Do not combine more than three light strings unless the product directions say you can. Do not overload electrical outlets. Keep wiring for lights hidden from children - it poses an injury risk, and may also contain lead.

Candles: Place candles on a solid base, away from decorations and other flammable materials.

Do not leave burning candles unattended, and keep them away from children. Consider using flameless (battery-powered)

candles; they’re attractive, safe even scented - and priced much like their wax counterparts.

Heating and Fireplaces: Make sure your central heating system is clean and working properly.

Use space heaters carefully follow directions and keep them away from combustible materials.

If you have a fireplace, keep the chimney clean and free of creosote. NEVER burn wrapping paper in your fireplace.

Cooking: Stay on top of things when you cook! Never leave the stove unattended.

Don’t try to cook if you’re sleepy, taking medications, using alcohol or otherwise impaired.

Keep pressurized containers and flammable materials - including cleaning products - away from the stove. Keep your stovetop

2012 in review ANSWERS TURN TOO 14

clean and free of grease. If you have a grease fire, DO NOT try to put it out with water; water will spread the flames. Don’t move the cooking vessel. Instead, smother the fire with a lid or cookie sheet and turn off the burner.

Smoking: Quitting now will reduce long-term health risks and eliminate a serious fire hazard.

Don’t smoke when you’re tired, on medication, using alcohol or otherwise impaired. When you finish a cigarette, put it out completely in an appropriate, stable container. Remember that the peat material in planters is flammable, and cigarettes deposited there may smolder until they start a fire.

Products Safety Commission (CPSC) issued 30 recalls of unsafe toys, and 15 have been issued to-date in 2012. In most cases, the potential risks were burns, choking or injuries, but exposure to lead or lead paint continues to be a possibility.

“It can be difficult to determine whether a toy poses a lead hazard,” said Randi Callahan, State Lead Case Monitor. “Older toys, home-made toys and toys with red or yellow paint are more likely to contain lead; having toys tested is the best protection.”

Callahan suggested checking the CPSC website for possible recalls at http://www.cpsc.gov/ cgi-bin/prod.aspx.

Unsafe Toys Last year, the U.S. Consumer

Carbon Monoxide Carbon monoxide (CO) problems

ACROSS 1. Come from an egg 6. Bad-mouth 9. Cargo 13. Gem state 14. Make a choice 15. Move sideways 16. Chocolate substitute 17. Wade’s opponent 18. *”The _____” moved to Chicago from NYC 19. *GOP’s 2012 choice 21. *Deceased singing legend 23. Pock mark disease 24. Boris Godunov, e.g.

25. Chicken order 28. Vegetative prickle 30. Speed of play, pl.

35. Like decorated cake 37. Luau souvenirs 39. Third rock from the sun 40. Laughing on the inside, in a chatroom 41. Small drum 43. Memorization method 44. Full of pep 46. Russian parliament 47. Farmer’s purchase 48. Auteur’s art 50. Peacock’s pride 52. *Ann to Mitt 53. “Anything ___?”

55. Excessively 57. *PSY’s style 61. Bronx Bomber 64. Whippet or Basset, e.g.

65. Bard’s before 67. Lifeboat support 69. Elephant trainer’s goad 70. Summer mo.

71. “Lohengrin,” e.g.

72. In a golfer’s pocket 73. Registration, for short 74. One born to Japanese immigrants

DOWN 1. Wino’s sound?

2. Month of Purim 3. Tropical tuber 4. Bite 5. Rub elbows 6. Nemo’s forgetful friend 7. *Facebook’s big move 8. Seethes 9. Dryer fire hazard 10. Scandinavian war god 11. Burn soother 12. Refuse to accept 15. Evening party 20. Jump for joy 22. Pillbox or tricorne, e.g.

24. Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, e.g.

25. Whitman’s dooryard bloomer 26. A threat to food safety 27. “___ __ on the ground floor” 29. Part of ROM 31. *”Curiosity” landing site 32. Preface 33. Weasel’s aquatic cousin 34. Outbuildings 36. *Felix Baumgartner’s space ____ 38. “Brave New World” drug 42. Indian side dish of yogurt and cucumbers 45. Corrects or edits 49. Chicken _ __ king 51. *Where many struck gold 54. _____ campaign 56. Giraffe-like African animal 57. Steps to the river 58. First rate 59. Heat in a microwave 60. African migrators 61. Safecracker 62. December 24 and 31, e.g.

63. Michael Collins’s country 66. Parisian way 68. Chi precursor

tend to spike during the winter; in 2011, nearly one-third of incidents reported to Minnesota fire departments - 472 out of 1,732 - occurred in January and December.

These precautions will help protect you and people you live or work with from CO poisoning: All homes should have CO alarms and smoke detectors; both can be purchased at discount hardware and building supply stores.

Have a qualified technician inspect your furnace and check fuel-burning appliances in the fall. Make sure all fuel-burning appliances are adequately vented and properly maintained.

When using a fireplace, wood stove or space heater, provide adequate ventilation.

Portable propane camping equipment and gas barbecues are approved for outdoor use only. They should never be used inside cabins, tents, fish houses, recreational vehicles or boats. Read labels on recreational appliances and follow manufacturers’ operating instructions.

If your car is stuck in the snow, clear the tail pipe of snow before starting the engine. Keep it clear if you use the engine for heat. Watch for symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.

During power outages, do not use gasoline engines or burn charcoal in enclosed spaces, including a garage, even if the door is open. Do not use gas stoves or ovens to heat living areas.

Page 14 • December 17 - December 23, 2012 • Insight News

insightnews.com

COMMUNITY Calendar • Classifieds LEGAL NOTICE STATE OF MINNESOTA COUNTY OF HENNEPIN

DISTRICT COURT FOURTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT FAMILY COURT DIVISION Court File No.:27 PA FA 11 1026

In Re the Matter of Thomas Boyd Johnson Petitioner, SUMMONS

Alfreda Coleman Johnson and Alex J. Vah a/k/a Jimica David, Respondents.

THE STATE OF MINNESOTA TO THE ABOVE-NAMED RESPONDENT. WARNING: THE ABOVE-REFERENCED PETITIONER, THOMAS BOYD JOHNSON, HAS FILED A LAWSUIT A COMPLAINT TO ESTABLISH PATERNITY AND CHILD CUSTODY. A COPY OF THE PAPERWORK REGARDING THE LAWSUIT IS SERVED ON YOU WITH THIS SUMMONS. THIS SUMMONS IS AN OFFICIAL DOCUMENT FROM THE COURT THAT AFFECTS YOUR RIGHTS. READ THIS SUMMONS CAREFULLY. IF YOU DO NOT UNDERSTAND IT, CONTACT AN ATTORNEY FOR LEGAL ADVICE. 1.

The Petitioner, Thomas Boyd Johnson, has filed a lawsuit against you asking the Court to adjudicate the legal father of a minor child.

2.

You must serve upon the Petitioner and file with the Court a written Answer to the Complaint, and you must pay the required Court filing fee.

If you do not serve and file an Answer, the Court may adjudicate and give the Petitioner everything he is asking for in his Complaint.

3.

If you do not have a lawyer, you can get the Answer to the Complaint at the Family Court Self Help Center, 1st Floor, Family Justice Center, 110 S. 4th Street, Minneapolis, MN 55402. Telephone: 612-596-8519.

4.

You must serve your Answer upon the Petitioner within twenty (20) days of the date you were served with this summons.

This proceeding does not involve real property.

Dated: November 20, 2012. __________________________________ Signed by Petitioner: Thomas Boyd Johnson 1707 – 69th Avenue North, Apt. 123 Brooklyn Center, MN 55430 Telephone: 763-439-9348

Occupy From 1

Send Community Calendar information to us by email: info@insightnews.com, by fax: 612.588.2031, by phone: 612.5881313 or by mail: 1815 Bryant Ave. N. Minneapolis, MN 55411. Free or low cost events preferred.

EVENTS

and

5.

Phone: 612.588.1313

Fax: 612.588.2031

United States distributes the Black Music America Network in Minnesota and western Wisconsin. To RSVP contact: Lugenia Smith Program Coordinator at 612-341-2447.

tunes, it’s the perfect holiday show for your entire family. A free-will offering is taken at the performance to support the Choir’s programs. Thursday, December 20 @ 7:00 pm at The Basilica of Saint Mary Church, 88 North 17th Street, Minneapolis, MN. For more information call 612-317-3438.

AFRIKAAPS Dec. 21 Award winning South African filmmaker Dylan Valley presents his film AFRIKAAPS Dec. 21, 2012 at the Wilder Foundation, 451 Lexington Parkway North, St Paul, MN. This film traces the history of the Afrikaans language back to the slaves who were brought to Cape Town in the late 1600’s. The film features musical greats Jitsvinger, Kyle Shepard, Emile (black noise), Moenier Parker, Shane Cooper, Blaq Pearl, the powerhouse B-boy, Bliksemstraal and the poetic genius of Jethro Louw.

Doors 6:30pm / Film 7:00pm.

The African Children’s Choir in Concert Dec. 20 An African Christmas with the African Children’s Choir will bring you and your family the warmth of a Christmas celebration in the villages of East Africa. From African traditional songs to all your favorite carols and Christmas

Black Music America Channel celebrate 28 years of broadcasting Dec. 21 Pete and Kim Rhodes owners of BMA channel 937 will host an anniversary and holiday celebration on Friday December 21, 2012, 4-7pm at The Dakota Jazz Club, 1010 Nicollet Mall in Minneapolis. The event celebrates their 28th year MINNESOTA DFL SEEKS of broadcasting with music, COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR food and gifts. Comcast The Minnesota DFL Party is accepting applications for the nation’s largest cable Communications Director. The Communications Director operator, home internet leads the Communications Team. Please visit www.dfl.org for more in-depth job description. service provider, and third largest home telephone The deadline for applications is Wednesday, service provider in the December 19th, 2012.

Water From 9 it cannot detect perchlorate below 2 ppb. But EWG point out that Massachusetts is already testing for it with a 1 ppb cut-off, per the mandate of its statewide standard set back in 2006.

The only other state to have

upon by his lender, Bank of America, but he refused to vacate the property. Following the national media attention, Bank of America made the

a drinking water standard for perchlorate is California, which set 6 ppb or less as an allowable concentration back in 2004. But that state’s Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment recently proposed lowering the standard to 1 ppb based on new data regarding environmental exposure, possible effects of perchlorate and consideration of infants as a susceptible population.

decision to allow Hull to remain in the home. To mark the pivotal moment in Occupy Homes MN’s movement – a year to the date, nearly 200 people gathered at Hull’s house for a rally and march to an unoccupied home in the neighborhood which it claimed for another homeless veteran who was foreclosed upon.

“My neighbors are here, my family and friends are all here, just like you were a year ago,” said Hull, speaking to the large group gathered on his front steps and lawn. “Last year we took over my house, and this year we’re going to take over the neighborhood.”

This time around, the Minneapolis grassroots organization was joined in its fight by music icon, Chuck D of the group Public Enemy.

The iconic rapper was joined

by Wise Intelligent, formerly of the group Poor Righteous Teachers. The two were asked to attend the rally by fellow hiphopper, Brother Ali, who is a Minneapolis resident and whose current CD is charging up the Billboard charts.

“I called (Chuck D) and said I need you to come to this protest and he didn’t even ask, he just said, ‘I’m down,’” said Brother Ali. Brother Ali was arrested in June on charges of trespassing and refusing to depart during an Occupy protest at a home being foreclosed upon by PNC Bank.

Chuck D said the fight being waged in Minneapolis is no different than many other fights throughout the nation.

“When I was growing up during the time of R and B – Reagan and Bush – I couldn’t understand why there were so many vacant homes,” said Chuck D. “All these boarded-up cribs and banks getting bigger and bigger. This is happening everywhere in the country.

Never have so many been screwed by so few.”

Answers From 13

Email: info@insightnews.com

The Love Project Dec. 28-29 So, you think you know a thing or two about love . . . . The

If the EPA develops a tough new standard, almost every state will need to readjust its water monitoring systems to take into account how much perchlorate is making its way to our taps and into the foods we eat—a no doubt costly process but one that will greatly benefit both current and future generations.

CONTACTS: Environmental Working Group, www.ewg.org;

Love Project is a collaborative performance project based on a collection of love poems by playwright and poet Maxie Rockymore. Ten visual artists, dancers, singers, spoken word artists and a DJ mine love poems for aspects that touch their own lives offering up a personal re-mix. Artists include: Christopher Harrison (painter), Kenna Cottman (dancer), Peggy and Anthony Brewer (singers), Stephani Booker (poet/writer), Kevin “Kaoz” Moore (spoken word art-ist), Nothando Zulu (storyteller), Rashin Richardson (singer), DJ Mixwell (DJ), Nicole Smith (spoken word artist), and Maxie Rockymore (poet/playwright). Performances Friday, Dec. 28, 2012-7:00 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 29, 2012-7:00 p.m. at Obsidian Arts/Pillsbury House, 3501 Chicago Ave. So., Mpls, 55407 Cost: $10.00 adults / $5.00 students. Tickets: 612-7873644 / www.blackartsmn.org

EPA Perchlorate Info, http://water. epa.gov/drink/contaminants/ unregulated/perchlorate.cfm.

EarthTalk® is written and edited by Roddy Scheer and Doug Moss and is a registered trademark of E - The Environmental Magazine (www.emagazine.com).

Send questions to: earthtalk@ emagazine.com. Subscribe: www. emagazine.com/subscribe. Free Trial Issue: www.emagazine.com/

Photos: Michele Spaise

Homeowner Bobby Hull on the front steps of his home, rallies the troops as they prepare to “occupy” a vacant property for a homeless veteran.

Wise Intelligent said the Occupy Homes MN mission is right in line with the mission of hip-hop music and culture.

“Hip-hop is about empowering the people,” said Wise Intelligent. “Let’s occupy Minneapolis, occupy Trenton (the city in New Jersey from which he hails), let’s occupy America.”

Hull said Occupy Homes MN and the city of Minneapolis brokered a deal where nonprofits would manage vacant homes owned by the city and allow homeless individuals to inhabit the properties.

Once such property is the home where the group marched to and moved in U.S. Air Force veteran, John Vinje. Vinje and his family are recently homeless after their home was foreclosed upon.

“What’s going on with the foreclosure crisis does not represent the country I fought for,” said Vinje.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Chuck D delivers a message to nearly 200 supporters of the Occupy Homes MN movement. Chuck D was in town for a concert, but took time out to join the rally.

According to Anthony Newby of Neighborhoods Organized for Change and Occupy Homes MN, homelessness in Hennepin

County is at a six-year high and one in four homeless people is a veteran. Newby said 8,000 people in the metro area sleep on the streets or in shelters daily.

Insight News • December 17 - December 23, 2012 • Page 15

Michele Spaise

PSK from makin’ that green. Schoolly D brought the crowd to life with his outrageous stage show.

Public Enemy From 1

a Pause,” “Don’t Believe the Hype,” “911 Is a Joke,” “Welcome to the Terrordome ,” – which particularly was a highlight as Flav shocked the audience and took the bass from Davey and began playing along with the rest of the band (Flav later played drums to “Timebomb” as Slug and Brother Ali of Rhymesayers laced the stage with back-andforth freestyles), “Shut ‘Em Down,” “Night of the Living Bassheads,” “He Got Game,” “Arizona” and “Black Steel in the Hour of Chaos.”

The group ended its powerpacked set with its best known single, “Fight the Power,” which further delighted the frenzied crowd.

I’d be doing the reader a disservice if I didn’t mention

that PE’s DJ, DJ Lord is the truth. Lord’s turntable wizardry is second to none. His brilliance was on full display when he scratched records at breakneck speed using his fingers, nose, stomach, back and various other body parts to manipulate the records and fader.

The rest of the crew Monie Love’s set was brief, but highly entertaining. Once again showing the Twin Cities is full of talent, Love brought a local artist, Mally, on stage to perform. Love said she never met Mally, but he emailed her his song and she enjoyed it so much she wanted to bring him

PUBLIC ENEMY 16 TURN TO

ON SALE NOW! JANUARY 9-13 Tickets: Target Center Box Office 800-745-3000 Ticketmaster.com

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the New School are, well, old school and thus the members of the group aren’t being called to perform. Now of course, former member Busta Rhymes continues to have one of the most influential voices in hiphop and I seriously doubt he’s having troubles getting promoters to answer his calls, but for his former band mate, Dinco D; not the case.

So when Chuck D decided to create the HipHopGods Tour, these classic artists dusted off their Kangols, Africa medallions, Adidas shell-toes … and for PE hype man, Flava Flav, his infamous clock, and took to the road for a concert that can only be described as classic.

First, First Avenue was the perfect venue to host this show. It feels old sch … sorry, classic. It has a look and feel of a 1980’s hip-hop venue.

It smells like it hasn’t been bathed in a while. It’s raw, it’s gritty --it’s hip-hop.

As the crowd packed in

(and the place was packed), the energy in the room was palatable. And from the moment opening act Awesome Dre took the stage to the time Public Enemy caused me to lose my voice; the show was nonstop excitement.

Let’s get right to the best part – Public Enemy put on one of the greatest shows ever.

Immediately prior to PE taking the stage (keep in mind Chuck D hosted the entire evening, so he never really left the stage) DJ Davey DMX, who is well known in hip hop as a DJ and producer for Run DMC, Kurtis Blow (he wrote and produced the classic, “If I Ruled the World” for Blow), the Fat Boys and more; took to the stage to display his turntable skills. And the man still has skills. But Davey wasn’t done there. He then picked up the bass guitar on stage and proceeded to play bass for the PE set. Yes, PE used a live band with a guitar player who was as much rock as he was soul, an in-the-pocket drummer, Davey on Bass (mostly – I’ll get to that later) and DJ Lord on the turntables. Who said hip-hop artists aren’t musicians?

Then came the sirens.

Those familiar, intense, high-pitched sirens that can only mean one thing … as Flav says so often, “PE in the house, boy.” Public Enemy’s near hour-long set could only be described as, you got it … classic.

Immediately, Chuck and the band were joined by Professor Griff and the S1Ws who went into their precise military-style steps as Chuck began rapping in his familiar cadences. It wasn’t until midway through the opening number when the crown-prince of hip-hop, Flava Flav hit the stage in a black, white and brown fur jacket.

Thankfully the eyesore of a jacket came off and Flav was up to his old tricks, gyrating about stage, hopping off speakers and hyping the crowd the entire time.

Unlike many acts that run from their more popularly known songs in favor of new material, PE came to bring the noise – literally, as they performed hit after hit, including, of course, “Bring the Noise,” “Rebel Without

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Page 16 • December 17 - December 23, 2012 • Insight News

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Photos: Michele Spaise

Fight the power. Members of Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Public Enemy, show the crowd at First Avenue that after 25 years of making music, they still have a lot more fight left in them.

Public Enemy From 15 on stage.

Love performed her verse to the Queen Latifah song, “Ladies First,” and her classic hit, “Monie in the Middle,” ending the set with her iconic dance from the song’s video.

The performance of the night (besides PE) belonged to Wise Intelligent. Wise’s lyrical delivery was flawless on the Poor Righteous Teachers’ classic, “Rock This Funky Joint.” Wise then performed his new single, “I Said It” and judging from the crowd, it too will have staying power, as the audience chanted along with Wise, “I said it, I said it, that’s right, I said it.”

Then there’s Schoolly D. Schoolly didn’t stay on stage long but while he was there; wow. There’s something about seeing a middle-aged shirtless man with a flabby chest and protruding belly that lets you know caution has been thrown to the wind and it’s time to party. But then again, what’s to expect from the man who performed the music for and occasionally narrates “Aqua Teen Hunger Force,” a staple of Cartoon Network’s “Adult Swim” line-up.

Dinco D of Leaders of the New School represented the group by himself as Charlie Brown didn’t show for the gig and Busta is no longer affiliated with the group. But still, Dinco’s verses on such classics as “Case of the PTA,” “Sobb Story,” and the truly classic,

Monie Love, one of the pioneering ladies in hip-hop, gettin’ it during her performance of “Monie in the Middle.”

“Scenario” were enough to keep the crowd hype.

Though I’m betting most people in the crowd never heard of Awesome Dre, they showed him mad love (as us old sch … darn it … classic hip-hop heads would say). Dre was followed by Son of Bazerk who a few more may have been familiar with. Quite honestly, I wasn’t wowed by the group’s performance.

The biggest disappointment of the night was the performance of X Clan. Without the voice of Professor X, who died in 2006, X Clan just isn’t the same.

Front man Brother J was nice in his delivery, but the group didn’t perform many of its hits and the hits it did perform were done so to unfamiliar beats, thus most of the crowd didn’t get into the performance.