April 18, 2019 - MN Spokesman-Recorder

April 18-24, 2019 Vol. 85 No. 37 www.spokesman-recorder.com

Rep. Omar supporters protest Trump visit

By Chris Juhn Editorial Intern

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undreds of Rep. Ilhan Omar supporters faced off with President Trump supporters during a protest against the president’s Minnesota visit. Protesters lined both sides of the street in front of Nuss Trucking in Burnsville on Monday where Trump’s motorcade passed through. Rep. Omar supporters marched along one side carrying “I Stand With Ilhan” signs, amongst others, in protest of Trump’s tweet sharing an edited video of Omar that connected her to 9/11. “You put a target on the back of a sitting congresswoman,” Jaylani Hussein, the exec-

utive director of the Community on American Islamic Relations, Minnesota (CAIR MN) shouted via megaphone to Trump’s motorcade as it made its way past the protesters. “Today, Minnesotans came out to support Ilhan and to tell President Trump that Minnesotan values do not align with his values,” CAIR told the MSR. “Our protest is mixed with… different ages, groups, peoples’ backgrounds. Minnesota will continue to lead this nation by sending people like Congresswoman Ilhan Omar [to Washington] as well as to reject Trump’s policies.” Since Trump’s tweet, Rep. Omar said she has been plagued with death threats. “I have experienced an increase in direct threats on

my life — many directly referencing or replying to the President’s video,” said Omar, who was not in attendance, in a recent statement. Omar also shared that counties that hosted Trump rallies in 2016 saw a “226 percent increase in hate crimes” as well as increases in assaults. “Violent crimes and other acts of hate by rightwing extremists and White nationalists are on the rise in this country and around the world,” said Omar. “We can no longer ignore that they are being encouraged by the occupant of the highest office in the land. “Violent rhetoric and all forms of hate speech have no place in our society, much less from our country’s Commander in Chief,” she

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continued. “We are all Americans. This is endangering lives. It has to stop.” Chris Juhn welcomes reader responses to cjuhn@ spokesman-recorder.com. Photos above from left to right: Jaylani Hussein

– Photo by Chris Juhn Ilhan Omar – Photo by Mandel Ngan/AFP/Getty Images

Asma Mohammed Nizami, advocacy director at Reviving the Islamic Sisterhood for Empowerment – Photo by Chris Juhn

Reentry fair offers formerly Career Fair targets professionals of color incarcerated ‘second chance’ By Solomon Gustavo Contributing Writer

By Dwight Hobbes Contributing Writer Knowledge is power when it comes to living on the right side of the law. This is especially true for Minnesota’s formerly incarcerated who are forced to subsist on society’s sidelines, where the stigma of a criminal record commonly relegates the rehabilitated and impenitent alike. The upcoming Minnesota Second Chance Coalition (MSCC) Resource Fair on April 24 seeks to capitalize on the age-old adage by providing access to resources to help those reentering from the criminal justice system. In partnership with Goodwill Easter Seals of Minnesota, the event cele-

brates Second Chance Month where individuals and families can meet local providers and learn about programs to overcome reentry barriers. “They can’t take advantage of resources they don’t know exist,” said MSCC Board member Randy Anderson. “The idea of a resource fair is to help bring together a

ment providers, housing providers, treatment providers. “The point of the fair is to show that there are resources, but they’re not easy to find. We hear people coming out of prison saying they don’t know resources exist. A lot of them feel they don’t have help and will resort back to their old behaviors.”

The POC Career Fair returns this spring, another day-long hiring event for the professionals of color (POC) in Minnesota. The fair at the Minneapolis Convention Center on April 30 will feature some 30 employers aiming to connect with under-employed talent. “It’s a career fair, not a job fair,” Sharon SmithAkinsanya, event founder and CEO of the Rae Mackenzie Group, made clear in a recent interview with the MSR. She sees solving the problem of educated people of color unable to find professional work as her niche. Minnesota’s POC community is already in bad shape when it comes to jobs, so being hit with a workforce shortage spells crisis. There are talented, educated, well-trained people of color already

being ignored who might get pushed further back. “We have a crisis in the state of Minnesota,” said Smith-Akinsanya. She said the unemployment rate currently among people of color (POC), especially among Blacks and Latinx, is two to four times higher than Whites’. This bodes badly, she noted, with 2020 state workforce outlooks forecasting a roughly 100,000 employee shortage. It’s a problem she got the state to recognize, first meeting with then-Gov. Mark Dayton about the issue before launching the career fair in 2016. The current state administration and Twin Cities leaders also agree: Gov. Tim Walz, Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter all will be in attendance. Smith-Akinsanya aims to bridge the gap with the career fairs. She doesn’t believe employers ■ See Career fair on page 5

“We are in a moment where the energy for reform is high locally and nationally.” broad spectrum of community resources available for those who have involvement with or have been impacted by the [criminal] justice system,” said Anderson. “[Those resources include] employ-

Anderson, who has a BA and is a licensed alcohol and drug counselor (LADC) as well as a criminal justice reform advocate, has been ■ See SeCond ChanCe on page 5

Submitted photo

BLACK BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: THERAPY OF CHAMPIONS Boosting self-healing through cryotherapy become the third business in the country to offer the service. “I opened with just a machine and an office back in 2010,” he said of his first location in downtown Minneapolis. He opened up another shop a few years later, sold that, and then opened his latest venture, Therapy of Champions, two and half years ago. We caught up with Johnson to find out what cryotherapy is, why he thinks it’s a game-changer in whole body healing, and what success looks like to him.

Branden Johnson All photos by Chris Juhn Branden Johnson has been on a healing mission since his former days in the NBA Development League. He was first introduced to cryotherapy, a form of medical therapy, after NBA greats Jason Kidd and Jason Terry suggested he try it out. “I literally fell in love with it,” said

Johnson, who then researched everything he could about the service, which was brand new to the U.S. “People were just kind of finding out about cryotherapy at that point.” Figuring he had gone as far as he would in the pro-basketball world, purchased his own cryotherapy machine to

BJ: Whole body cryotherapy is the number-one thing that we do — it helps activate the emergency response so the body goes into an instant place of healing. MSR: How does it work? BJ: With cryotherapy, you get to almost 220 degrees below zero and you stay in the cryotherapy chamber for about three minutes. We use vaporized liquid nitrogen to actually help surround the body, and it forces the body to start that fight or flight response.

that are really just tailored to helping the body operate at an optimum level where it’s not building up inflammation, making sure the lymphatic system is circulating appropriately, and just really kind of pushing the body to always be in a place where it’s trying to heal.

MSR: How has business been? BJ: It’s been good. There’s been a ton of ups and downs as a small business owner and people just kind of learning about what the therapy is. When I first opened up, my first clients were the Timberwolves because MSR: Tell us about Therapy of MSR: And that helps…? I was already in that kind of arena. But, Champions. BJ: Cryotherapy helps release endorBranden Johnson: It’s a human mainte- phins — it’ll help get get rid of stress outside of that I maybe had a couple nance facility. We specialize in helping very fast. It also forces the body to uti- random lawyers or doctors that were people maintain their body so they do lize all available nutrients and helps to also downtown looking for ways to not have to go to the doctor every time reset a lot of the body’s natural capabili- optimize. they’re injured because they’re not get- ty to heal on its own. MSR: Now you work with athletes ting injured. And we help with inflamthroughout the state. What’s been the MSR: What other services do you mation management. most rewarding part? provide outside of the cryotherapy? MSR: What is your primary service? BJ: We have a number of other therapies ■ See SBS on page 5

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April 18-24, 2019

Five factors to consider when choosing your child’s preschool By Kimberly V. Porter, M. Ed. Contributing Writer

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ftentimes, parents get a bit nervous when it comes to their child’s education, especially when their child is entering preschool or kindergarten. For many parents, choosing their child’s early learning experiences is one of the most valuable decisions they will make. Research shows children who participate in quality early child development (ECD) programs do better both academically and professionally. Throughout my career in ECD, I have interviewed various parents during enrollment and heard their concerns about making the best choice for their child’s early learning experiences. One of the biggest factors, they tell me, is choosing a school based on their child’s learning style or whether to be in a full-time or part-time setting. Another key factor is how the center provides discipline guidance. While those all play important roles, here are five more factors that parents should consider when searching for a quality early child development program. Classroom Environment Your child’s school should have a well-developed floor plan showcasing a safe environment and low shelves, tables, and chairs and a visual bathroom. Parents, please look for general cleanliness, all safety features that include covered electrical sockets, safe storage of possibly unsafe materials, including all paint and cleaning supplies and diverse toys without sharp edges. High-quality programs offer the early learner time to play and explore. The classroom should have areas that encourage language, problem-solving, imagination, social, emotional, physical, and intellect. Specifically, look for science, math, diverse floor and table puzzles, writing, sensory, block/ cars and trucks large and small, dramatic play area. Any classroom materials should be in locations accessible for classroom choice time to our early learners.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images developmental delays, health concerns and or diverse learning disabilities. Work with your child’s teacher to address the concerns and or issues if any concerns arrive and are identified. This information should be shared with parents during parent/teacher conferences and be available anything throughout the year. Teaching Quality Teaching is supposed to be meaningful and goal-directed. Early learners need a program that is sensitive to their individual needs, including appropriate stimulation and

Teacher’s Education Requirements While teachers will meet state-mandated education and licensure requirements, highquality schools may require teachers to meet additional certifications. They may also provide ongoing training for their teachers and assistance in pursuing additional certifications or higher education. Once you’ve made a list of potential schools, be sure to consider the above factors in selecting am environment that best suits you and your child’s needs. Once you nar-

row down choices, be mindful that the best school will be the one that brings out the best in your child. Kimberly V. Porter, M. Ed. is an early childhood development professional, author, and editorin-chief for eLATION magazine. She welcomes reader responses to kporter@spokesman-recorder. com.

Research shows children who participate in quality early child development programs do better both academically and professionally. Teachers who present activities that encourage thinking and problem-solving will also offer clear understanding regarding tracking your child’s developmental progression. Student Performance To ensure your scholar’s success, be sure to find out their teacher’s expectations. Check with the program of your choice on what their criteria are regarding academic and cognitive skills. How do other students measure up? Here are a few samples: • Social skills (ability to take turns, control impulses and play cooperatively). • Academic skills (identify letters and numbers, know how to hold a book and turn the pages). • Early math concepts (counting, names of shapes). High-quality schools will offer a clear way to track developmental progress and provide information concerning assessments that showcase social and emotional development, as well as academic readiness. This valuable information will give parents and teachers help when it comes to important developmental concepts such as cognitive, fine motor, self-esteem, following through with tasks, language and other varieties of academic development necessities. As a parent, you are to be notified if your child’s teacher has any concerns regarding

time to rest. It is important that a teacher makes sure each individual learner has the chance to explore and experience what is around them. Our early learners need love, attention and the opportunity to form the kind of comfortable, secure relationship with teachers that will nurture each individual learners’ healthy emotional development. Ask the teacher how they report on scholar activities. They should be able to articulate not only what activities the scholars are doing, but also why they are doing them and what the academic goal is. For example, if scholars are painting and mixing various colored waters in ice cube trays, the teacher should be able to explain that the students are learning about the basics of color theory — i.e., blue and yellow make green — as well as encourage their creativity. Student/Teacher Interactions Connecting with early learners is essential, especially through conversation which helps develop language. Ask how the teacher engages students. Does the teacher spend time listening to scholars? Does the program have materials or curriculum focused specifically around language development? This includes: • Opportunities to practice new skills • Offer choices so scholars become more independent learners • Various strategies to help manage frustrations

TRAVEL BEHAVIOR INVENTORY

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April 18-24, 2019

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Vaccinations are key for measles prevention

By Charles E. Crutchfield III, MD

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ew York Mayor Mark DeBlasio recently declared a public health emergency requiring measle vaccinations. An outbreak of over 300 cases of measles has been reported with several affected persons hospitalized and in need of intensive care. The culprit is a resurgence in the anti-vaccination movement along with miseducation around the vaccines being spread in certain religious communities and neighborhoods. Fortunately, properly educated citizens are addressing the vaccination issue and, as a result, more and more children are now getting vaccinated to break this dramatic health crisis and to prevent it from spreading. A recently published report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, involving a study of over half a million people, confirms that vaccinations are not associated with autism. Outbreaks in the United States are rare, but when they occur, they need to be addressed promptly. There are over 200 million cases of measles still reported annually worldwide. What is measles? Measles is an illness transmitted by a virus and is extremely contagious. In fact, if you have not been

vaccinated or have not had it before, the chances of anyone contracting it after being exposed to someone with it is exceptionally high.

tions include diarrhea, pneumonia, and ear infections. In severe but rare cases, the virus can infect the brain, causing swelling, pain, seizures and even death.

What are its symptoms? The symptoms start with a fever and flu-like symptoms. Then, shortly afterward, the patient develops a cough, very runny nose, little white bumps inside the mouth on the inner cheeks, and red, irritated eyes. Shortly after these symptoms appear, the classic red, bumpy rash starts on the face and neck and moves down, covering the entire body.

How can measles be prevented? The best way to prevent measles is to vaccinate children on schedule. The vaccination is a combination vaccine that protects against three viral diseases: measles, mumps, and rubella. The first vaccine is given at around age one, and a second booster vaccine is given about the time children start kindergarten, at about age five. The pediatrician will recommend the best schedule for your child. For children under age one and adults who may need a vaccination for the first time, consult your doctor for the best recommendations in these particular circumstances.

How is measles spread? It is spread in water droplets that become airborne when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It is extremely contagious, so if one is exposed (by being in a room where an infected person has coughed or sneezed), there is a very high chance that, if not immunized, the exposed person will get measles. With the exception of New York, there currently are no active areas (natural reservoirs) in the United States with significant cases of the measles, so the way measles spread is from someone who has traveled from a country with areas of large numbers of measles cases, who then brings it back to the United States. In all the reported cases in Minnesota, the people who contracted measles had not been vaccinated. How serious is measles? In 25 to 75 percent of cases, patients recover well without longterm effects. Unfortunately, in about one-quarter of the cases, there are additional complications beyond fever, flu-like symptoms, runny nose, irritated eyes, and skin rash. These additional complica-

What if a family member has measles? Rather than bringing them to a clinic and exposing others at the clinic, first, call the clinic for directions. Often, the clinic will refer them to a children’s hospital with an emergency room that is much better equipped and prepared to treat such an infectious viral disease. What about those who don’t want to be vaccinated? The anti-vaccination movement is still a problem, but it is not as common as it once was. Unfortunately, false reports linking claiming that vaccinations are not kosher or are linked to autism have put a terrible scare into parents. There has also been a concern with trace amounts of mercury (a preservative) contained in vaccines. The research that suggested the autismvaccination connection has been

Photo courtesy Getty thoroughly debunked and discredited. There are now vaccines that are free of preservatives. There are no scientifically valid reasons why children should not be vaccinated. The reason we vaccinate is to protect our children, so people who are worried about vaccines should look at the goal, which is protecting children. These diseases can kill children. That is why we vaccinate.

Remember, measles, mumps and rubella vaccine is extremely safe and effective. Charles E. Crutchfield III, MD is a board-certified dermatologist and Clinical Professor of Dermatology at the University of Minnesota Medical School. He also has a private practice in Eagan, MN. He received his M.D. and Master’s Degree in Molecular Biology and Genomics from the Mayo Clinic. He has been selected as one of the top 10 dermatologists in the United States by Black Enterprise magazine. Dr. Crutchfield was recognized by Minnesota Medicine as one of the 100 Most Influential Healthcare Leaders in Minnesota. He is the team dermatologist for the Minnesota Twins, Vikings, Timberwolves, Wild and Lynx. Dr. Crutchfield is an active member of both the American and National Medical Associations, and president of the Minnesota Association of Black Physicians.

How is measles treated? Because the disease is viral, treatment is mostly supportive care. That means hydration, reducing fever, assisting breathing, and soothing the rash. In three-quarters of cases, the disease will resolve without additional complications, like recovering from a bad cold or flu. In cases with significant further complications, additional medical support will be required. The best thing to do to treat measles is to prevent it from occurring in the first place. That means following the vaccination schedule recommended by the pediatrician.

Cancer death gap narrows between Blacks and Whites tus face more barriers to high-quality health care, including lack of insurance. For example, the study authors note that in 2017, the proportion of Blacks living below the federal poverty level (21 percent) was more than double that of Whites (9 percent), and 22 percent of Blacks had completed four years of college compared with 36 percent of Whites. About 98,020 cancer cases in Black men and 104,240 cases in Black women are expected to be newly diagnosed in 2019. Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Black men, and breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed in Black women. Each makes up nearly one-third of cancers diagnosed in each gender. Lung and colorectal cancers are the second and third most commonly diagnosed cancers in both Black men and women. Together, the four most common cancers — breast, prostate, colorectal, and lung — account for 54 percent of all cancer cases among Blacks. Photo courtesy Getty Historically, cancer and cancer death rates have been higher for African Americans than for Whites. New research, however, shows that the disparity gap is starting to narrow. According to research from the American Cancer Society (ACS), the overall cancer death rate is dropping faster in Blacks than in Whites, mostly in three cancer types: lung, colorectal, and prostate. The “Cancer Statistics for African Americans, 2019,” report, along with its companion piece Cancer Facts & Figures for African Americans 2019-2021, also shows the overall statistics on new cancer cases, deaths, survival, screening test use, and risk factors for African Americans. From 2006 to 2015, the overall cancer death rate declined faster among Black men and women than White men and women in the U.S. Continuous declines for the past 25 years have meant more than 462,000 fewer cancer deaths. Among men, the overall cancer death rate was 47 percent higher for Blacks than for Whites in 1990 versus 19 percent higher in 2016. Among women, the disparity decreased from 19 percent to 13 percent over the same period, with the gap nearly eliminated for some age groups. “Seeing the substantial progress made over the past several decades in reducing Black-White disparities in cancer mortality is incredibly gratifying,” said Len Lichtenfeld, MD, interim chief medical officer for the American Cancer Society,

in a statement. “This progress is driven in large part by drops in the lung cancer death rate driven by more rapid decreases in smoking over the past 40 years in Blacks than in Whites. To continue this progress, we need to expand access to high-quality cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment for all Americans.”

“To continue this progress, we need to expand access to high-quality cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment for all Americans.” While the gaps are reducing, the report shows that African Americans in the U.S. still have the highest death rate and lowest survival rate of any racial or ethnic group for most cancers. About 202,260 new cancer cases and 73,030 cancer deaths are expected among Blacks in the U.S. in 2019. Much of the difference is because of lower socioeconomic status and less access to medical care. People with lower socioeconomic sta-

Gap differs among age groups The progress is even more striking in some

age groups. Among men ages 40-49, the cancer death rate during 1990-1991 was 102 percent higher in Blacks than in Whites. But it was only 17 percent higher during 2015-2016. Among women, ages 40-49, the gap narrowed from 44 percent to 30 percent. Among Black women ages 80-89, the death rate was eight percent higher than among White women during 2002-2003, but three percent lower during 2015-2016. Additional findings: In Black men, rates of new cancer cases overall from 2006 to 2015 decreased by 2.4 percent per year compared with 1.7 percent per year for White men. In Black women, rates of new cancer cases overall from 2006 to 2015 remained unchanged compared with a slight increase in White women. This is because rates for breast, endometrial, and pancreatic cancer went up while rates for lung and colorectal cancer went down. —Information provided by American Cancer Society

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April 18-24, 2019

The Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder (MSR) welcomes and values commentary and feedback from the community. The articles found here are edited for clarity and/or space, but the opinions are the author’s own and do not reflect the views of the MSR.

We need to honor the ‘Nipseys’ in our own communities By Chelle Wilson Guest Commentator Bothered by the overwhelmingly negative images of African Americans in the news, movies, and books, poet Langston Hughes penned the essay “The Need for Heroes” for a 1941 issue of The Crisis. He took note of the growing erasure of Black heroes, such as icons Denmark Vessey and Mary McLeod Bethune to the not-so-well-known, like Sam Solomon, who in 1939 led the first African Americans to vote in Miami, and Roscoe Dunjee, who in 1915 started the Black Dispatch newspaper in Oklahoma City to challenge and expose racism and violent attacks on the community.

These are all heroic efforts, to be sure, but so were Nipsey’s. Why are so many of us just learning about his heroics? My mother used to always say, “Give me my flowers while I live.” I view her words a little differently now. Nipsey’s transformative work in community development, entrepreneurship, economic empowerment and, efforts to end gang violence will be recorded in the Congressional Record, but all of this comes posthumously. Celebrating our heroes does as much for us as it does them. Most who put in work to improve our communities (using whatever resources they have), don’t do it for flowers, applause, or any other recognition. However, is it too much to ask of our-

Let us honor the Nipseys right here in our own neighborhoods, schools, churches, community organizations, sororities, and fraternities. Hughes believed heroes like these would never make the news. “Why bother with the [news] at all?,” wrote Hughes. “Look around you for the living heroes who are your neighbors — who may or may not always speak perfect English, but who are courageous, straightforward, strong…and whose words and thoughts gather up what is in our own hearts and say it clearly and plainly sitting quietly in a chair in front of you.” I remembered Hughes’ words as I began to read all the articles and tributes celebrating the life and legacy of Nipsey Hussle. I was saddened that I didn’t know more about Nipsey, his story, and all of his accomplishments before his passing. From major national news outlets to local dailies, I’ve seen stories of the “everyday hero” featured all the time. For example, a high school principal who installed washing machines so his students wouldn’t miss school because of dirty clothes; a nurse that adopted a baby who had been in the hospital for over a year without any visitors; and a chef who left his Michelin-rated restaurant to try and add some flavor to school lunches in New York.

selves to let them know they are seen and valued? “We have a need for heroes,” wrote Hughes, “[heroes] that will encourage and inspire our youth…to move and stir them to be forthright, strong, clear-thinking, and unafraid.” I believe we have just that kind of hero all around us. Nipsey Hussle may not have ever described himself as a hero, but his mission to transform the community that he both loved and lived in was heroic. Let his sudden loss remind us to honor the Nipseys right here in our own neighborhoods, schools, churches, recreation centers, community organizations, sororities, and fraternities. If we look, they are there. We will find them doing the important work Nipsey embodied in life and death, “more faith and less fear…talking about dreams. Better to do it and let it be seen, cause then it’s clear.” Chelle Wilson is a speaker, journalist, and the International Secretary of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Noor trial begins with more questions than answers Through My Eyes The Minneapolis Story Continues

By Ron Edwards Contributing Commentator The trial of Mohamed Noor, former Minneapolis police officer, for the July 15, 2017 shooting death of Justine Ruszczyk Damond is officially underway. Hennepin County District Judge Kathryn Quaintance gaveled the trial’s opening on April 8, 2019. Hennepin County Attorney Michael Freeman originally charged Noor with 3rd-degree murder and 1st-degree manslaughter. One year later, in 2018, fresh from his re-election victory, Freeman upgraded charges against Noor to 2nd-degree murder. This is the first time in the history of Minnesota that a peace officer has been charged with both offenses. For some, this shooting trag-

edy shall forever live in infamy. For others, there is much suspicion of the legal process. There has already been controversy in regard to the number of both media and citizens that will be allowed in one of the smallest courtrooms in the government center. The Australian media has almost as many seats as the American media, by order of the presiding judge. Due to the intervening by both Minneapolis officials and multiple news organizations, the presiding judge has at least changed her mind to allow courtroom video to be viewed by the public, due to the intervening in this trial by both official Minneapolis and multiple news organizations. According to the law, the prosecution goes first. In presenting its case against Noor, the prosecution may call as many as 50 witnesses who allegedly have knowledge regarding the shooting, even though only four were in the alley. Prosecution wit-

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nesses will tell their stories, attempting to reflect on Noor in the most negative of ways. Justice is based on rules, yet given the complexities of this case surrounding race and actions of a peace officer, the judge has indicated it is often difficult for a trial to be fair. Among the questions we hope the trial answers are what calls were made on the night of July 15 and early morning of July 16? Were these calls authorized by the Minneapolis Police Department’s (MPD) command staff? Who, other than the homicide detectives, called Justine’s fiancé in his hotel room at his hotel? And, who from the MPD called government officials in Australia to provide information to Australia’s Prime Minister Turnbull, alleging the violent nature and the poor training of Black officers in the Minneapolis Police Department? These questions are reinforced by articles presented in Australian papers and other Australian media. As of the writing of this column, the defense was debating whether to put Noor on the stand in this very volatile case. Why is it that the only officer in the 5th Precinct who was ordered to disengage and not carry out his responsibility or supervision that night was of Somali descent? That raises other questions regarding bias toward Somalis. In the interest of unity and fairness, these and other questions should be answered under oath. Failure to do less supports the judge’s concern about a fair trial and a true effort to reach a fair conclusion on the spectrum dealing with levels of guilt and intent. Stay tuned. Ron Edwards is an author and hosts radio and TV shows.

We need safe spaces of worship By. Rev. Irene Monroe Contributing Commentator The high holy holidays of Passover and Easter are fast approaching and Ramadan is in May. Attacks, however, on places of worship are becoming too frequent in this global climate of intolerance. As a worshiper, I need our president to make us safe. The Pittsburgh Tree of Life synagogue mass shooting occurred in October 2018, injuring seven and killing 11 people. It was the deadliest anti-Semitic attack on the Jewish community in the country. Last month, the Christchurch mosque shootings in New Zealand were two consecutive terrorist attacks at mosques, killing 50 people and injuring over 50 more. The gunman, a self-described eco-fascist and ethno nationalist, livestreamed his first attack on Facebook Live. When news broke this month that three historically African American Baptist churches had burned within 10 days in rural Louisiana’s St. Landry Parish, sadly, the horror was all too familiar. The only good news in these recent incidents is that there were no casualties. Before the assailant was apprehended, none of the church burnings had been labeled as hate crimes, suggesting that the over 100-year-old churches were perhaps subject to accidental ignition due to old and crumbling infrastructures, faulty wiring, or thunderstorms that can cause power outages and occasional fires. Instead, Holden Matthews, the son of St. Landry Parish’s sheriff deputy, was arrested as the arsonist, igniting a wave of panic throughout its Black community. Matthews, 21, is White. He was influenced by “black metal” music, a subgenre of heavy metal is known for its anti-Christian and demagogic rhetoric and promoting neoNazism. While Matthews’ behavior is undoubtedly disturbing to its residents — both Black and White — his actions are not new. The link between White supremacy and attacks on African American churches in this country has been both historically documented, and anecdotally known in Black communities. For example, the 1963 bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama killed four little African American girls. It is one of the iconic images of White supremacist domestic terrorism. Massachusetts, however, which is known as the bluest of blue states, proved that church burnings are not the sole province of the South. Church burnings were one more persistent reminder why during antebellum America, hush harbors were places where my enslaved ancestors gathered in secret to worship. These recent fires remind me how African Americans’ desire for safe and sacred spaces — especially places of worship — continue to be challenged with acts violence. The Macedonia Church of God in Christ in Springfield was burned just hours after Obama was elected that historic night of November 2008 as our country’s first African American president.

In 2015, African American church burnings occurred suspiciously in rapid succession following the Charleston Black church massacre, which left nine dead — including its senior pastor. The day before the church massacre, precisely 197 years prior, “Mother” Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church was burned to the ground due to the racial violence of a mob of White slave owners.

Places of worship are supposed to be sanctuaries. However, African Americans are not the only ones confronted with this challenge. The roots of the Tree of Life massacre were White supremacy and anti-Semitism. When the gunman was apprehended by a SWAT officer he allegedly told him, he “wanted all Jews to die, and that Jews were committing genocide against his people.” The roots of the Christchurch massacre were White supremacy and Islamophobia. The gunman praised President Trump in his 74-page manifesto posted online, in which he lauded Trump as a symbol “of renewed White identity and common purpose.” This attack has our Muslim brothers and sisters on edge. Just blocks from me, the mosque in Cambridge was on 24-hour surveillance for fear of a copycat incident. During a press conference, Trump was asked if he ”see(s) today that White nationalism is a rising threat around the world” in the wake of mosques attacks in New Zealand. ”I don’t really. I think it’s a small group of people that have very, very serious problems, I guess,” Trump replied. Trump’s statement reminded me of his repugnant “blame on both sides” comment about the Charlottesville mayhem that took place the summer of 2017. By condemning counter protesters similarly as White supremacists and swastikawielding neo-Nazis at the rally, Trump suggested both groups were at fault, and one was equally in the wrong as the other. It is these type of statements that keep White supremacist terrorism alive, here and abroad, and our places of worship in danger. Places of worship are supposed to be sanctuaries. Freedom of religion is guaranteed in our constitution, and it’s a freedom that should be upheld globally. With many of us approaching the high holy holidays these coming days and weeks ahead, nothing would be more comforting than knowing our places of worship are safe. Rev. Irene Monroe is an African American lesbian feminist public theologian, sought-after speaker, and preacher.

April 18-24, 2019

Second chanceS Continued from page 1

there. He served 87 months for drug possession. Employers can well afford to pick and choose among prospective workers and flat-out refuse to hire someone with a blemished history. The unscrupulous can, in fact, in the guise of giving an ex-con a break, exploit him or her, paying poor wages, laying down harsh working conditions, and demanding excessive working hours. Affordable housing is elusive for even the stably employed and practically unthinkable for those just out of prison. There is also the issue of getting or staying off drugs, chemical dependency being a health issue more realistically addressed with help for the addict or alcoholic rather than moral judgment. But getting a fighting chance, Anderson acknowledged, is a great deal better than thinking you have no chance at all. “There’s a pathway that’s not easy and takes of lot work, but it is possible…to be successful.” This is of great importance for Minnesota’s Black population that faces alarming racial disparities. Af-

rican Americans are incarcerated at nearly 11 times the rate of their White counterparts. But, the fair is by no means, a quick fix to a complex problem. A hurdle with which Anderson still contends is expungement, the courtordered procedure by which the legal record of an arrest or a criminal conviction, while not destroyed, is sealed and erased in the eyes of the law. “[It’s] a barrier I’ve run into, getting a professional license as an LADC, being disqualified by felony drug convictions,” he said. “I had to request a reconsideration to ask the Department of Human Services to have my criminal record set aside. Every time I go to work somewhere, I have to do a new [set-aside].” He’s encouraged by the prospect of that being one less hoop through which the formerly incarcerated must jump. “Coalition partners wrote a bill that will go into effect in August if approved by the Senate and House and Governor Walz signs it. It would place into effect a traveling set-aside, which means if you’ve done one set-aside, and it’s approved, you won’t have to repeat the process. You won’t have to worry about it.” Anderson is one of many MSCC

board members who have been incarcerated or gone through the criminal justice system. “Our board of directors all are impacted and have faced barriers,” he said. “We’re trying to show people still impacted that there is help for them.” Outside of the fair, the nonprofit coalition is made up of hundreds of nonprofit member organizations and individuals advocating for “laws, policies, and practices” for those who have paid their debts to society. “The MN Second Chance Coalition has played a vital role in educating Minnesotans about the barriers faced by individuals with justice system involvement, advocating for administrative and legislative reforms and connecting advocates, community providers and impacted individuals,” Deputy Commissioner of Corrections Sarah Catherine Walker told the MSR via email. “The Second Chance fair is a continuation of this work,” Walker said, “and while the coalition continues to make progress in stemming the tide of mass incarceration and supervision, the process of education, advocating and raising the voice of impacted individuals, must continue. We are in a moment where the energy for reform is high locally and na-

tionally, but we will only make progress with these ongoing efforts.” Anderson summed up, “We want to make more people aware we exist and of the work we’re doing.” There will be information sessions at the fair on expungement and set-asides. Also planned is a screening of The Restoration Series: Jonathan’s Walk, a five-part documentary following one man as he re-enters his community after 15 years in prison.

BJ: I never send anybody out unhappy. A lot of people are tired of this whole “go to the doctor and get a prescription for something” that masks the problem when the body can actually heal on its own. I have joy every day because I don’t have to ever give any bad news. Your body has the ability to do it on its own — we can help promote that process beyond anything else that you’ve ever done. And people are really attached to that. As long as they have regular good eating habits or a regular workout routine and you add the cryotherapy to that, I mean, it just changes everything you’re doing because you can wake up and not be sore in the morning. Your body’s kind of going, “I want more, let’s keep this process going.” And it just makes everything happen faster. MSR: What was your biggest challenge? BJ: It was really awareness. You tell people you want to freeze them for two to three minutes, they instantly think, “What, Ted Williams? Freezing people’s heads and trying to bring them back to life afterwards?” I had to say, “No, all my clients are happy. They come in alive and they leave alive! [laughs]” But yeah, there was a lot of just unknowns for people as far as how the cryotherapy process went and what it did. There was this uncertainty of what exactly it was, what it did, and why we would possibly use nitrogen to make people cold. People aren’t that excited about being cold. MSR: How did you break through that? BJ: It helped out that some of the Housewives shows

Continued from page 1

don’t want people of color. It’s just that “they can’t find them,” she said. Instead, people of color with doctorate degrees are working low-level jobs. Smith-Akinsanya said those who have gone to school for four, six or eight years have earned “the dignity of a good job.” They should be fully enjoying doing the things that make Minnesota a great place to live for the general population — and Minnesota should enjoy the higher tax revenues such employment would provide.

The Minnesota Second Chance Coalition and Goodwill Easter Seals of Minnesota Second Chance Fair takes place April 24, 3 - 7 pm at 553 Fairview Ave. N. in St. Paul. The event is free and open to the public. Dwight Hobbes welcomes reader responses to dhobbes@spokesmanrecorder.com. Front graphic credit: Getty

seeing. It starts with how well you’re handling yourself and you taking care of yourself and making yourself a priority.

Continued from page 1

career fair

Submitted photo

Randy Anderson

BBS

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MSR: What does success look like for you? BJ: Success for me is my time. I have kids. So I spend time coaching my kids in every sport, literally. So I’m normally running around outside of the business, but really I want to have five Therapy of Champions around the city. I’m not really too worried about franchising. I’m not worried about making a billion dollars during the process. I want to be able to have time to raise my kids, is really what it is. Making sure that they see what it’s like to work hard and build something and actually start it and see it all the way from inception to completion. MSR: What’s one thing you wish you knew before launching? BJ: Things I wish I knew! We’d have to have a Branden Johnson places client in the cryotherapy chamber. whole new conversation for that! I wish I knew evAll photos by Chris Juhn erything before that. One thing, I would say, is be started showing. So, I started kind of getting that our space, you’ll also notice that we have a lending very selective about the people you surround yourcrowd that was looking for the calorie burn — a library. All the books that we have here are all tai- self with and make sure you have successful peohuge part of the cryotherapy is you’ll burn an extra lored to bettering oneself. Whether it’s from a spir- ple around you or people that all have goals, so 500-800 calories. Everybody sees it and they’re like, itual aspect or business aspect, everything that we that even if you fall in the middle, you’re falling in “Hey, I can do this instead of work out,” but it really have back there is something that’s going to help a good place. you be a better version of yourself. I believe that doesn’t work like that. Yes, you burn the calories, but you’re going to eat our goals, as a community, should always just be Therapy of Champions is located at 1415 E 66th St. that back pretty fast because your body wants to to beat yesterday. You don’t have to have massive in Richfield. For more information, visit therapyofchamre-regulate itself. It wants to go into a state where lofty goals, but you have to beat the day before. pions.com. And this is kind of that “aha” moment for a lot it’s able to utilize nutrients to heal. And if you’re not of people after they literally stood in the cold champutting in the correct foods, that’s hard to do. Interview conducted by Stephenetta Harmon ber for three minutes and say “I feel amazing.” MSR: How do you see your business impacting And we’re just a place where it kind of shows people, hey, it all starts with you. It doesn’t start with the community? BJ: I see it as kind of a gateway. If you come into us. It doesn’t start with the doctors that you’ve been

On top of the tax base, “a more diverse workforce means a more productive workforce,” said Smith-Akinsanya. National companies like Target and Wells Fargo, she said, will be among the employers on hand, and they need employees who reflect the nation and their customers. Also among the employers who will have people there faceto-face to speak with prospective employees about all types of upper level jobs, is the state of Minnesota, US Bank, Anderson Windows, Sleep Number, Metro Transit, Best Buy, Ameriprise Financial, Boston Scientific, Bremer Bank and more. Smith-Akinsanya said she knows people are getting hired

because sponsors and hiring managers from the above companies continue to come back. Those companies will have plenty of prime candidates to choose from; Smith-Akinsanya anticipates 750 people to be in attendance. “The energy in the career fair is unlike any other,” she said, adding the event doubles as a great POC networking opportunity for those who already have a job. Trained and talented people of color can find excited employers who “value their degree,” she added. Those POC workers, in turn, find a committed and inclusive workplace to join. Participants are also offered

a free headshot — a must, said Smith-Akinsanya, for those who want a good-looking LinkedIn page. You can also register to vote. There is no cost and the event is open to the public. There’s even a free Metro Transit ride, said Smith Akinsanya, for those who download the pass online.

“We made it easy for you to make your elevator pitch and get on the bus stress- free. Just come on down.”

visit poccareerfair.com.

The POC Career Fair — Spring 2019 will take place April 30 at the Minneapolis Convention Center, located at 1301 2nd Ave. S. in downtown Minneapolis. For more info,

Solomon Gustavo welcomes reader responses to sgustavo@ spokesman-recorder.com. All photos submitted by POC Career Fair,.

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April 18-24, 2019

Paisley Park, Mpls. landmarks honor life and legacy of Prince In honor of the third anniversary of Prince’s passing on April 21, Paisley Park will celebrate his legacy with several events and tributes. Beginning Thursday, April 18, fans touring Paisley Park can once again place memorial messages on a special Prince4Ever tribute fence within the interior grounds of the property. The fence will display many of the fan-donated memorial messages and artifacts that have been archived since Prince’s passing. Messages added this year will be archived and preserved by Paisley Park, adding to the massive collection of thoughtful tributes to date. On Sunday, April 21, a special “Paisley Park After Dark” DJ Dance Party will be held from 6 to 11 pm with DJ Michael Holtz in the NPG Music Club Room. Like other Paisley Park After Dark parties, the entry fee includes a tour of the museum. From Thursday, April 25 through Sunday, April 28, the estate will welcome fans from around

Minneapolis buildings and landmarks have gone purple to honor Prince every year after his passing. Photo by Steve Floyd the world for Celebration 2019 to enjoy four days of live music, concert screenings, panel discussions and special presentations highlighting Prince’s tremendous talent, influence and importance as a composer, musician, producer, live per-

former and filmmaker. Paisley Park will also be hosting a special concert event titled PRINCE: In Concert on the Big Screen at The Armory on Friday, April 26 at 8 pm. The show will feature newly re-

mastered and never-before-released audio and video of Prince accompanied live on The Armory stage by an all-star ensemble of musicians who performed alongside the icon throughout his storied career. Attendance to this event is in-

cluded with a Celebration ticket or can be purchased individually. Finally, in celebration of Prince and the show at the Armory, Minneapolis landmarks will join Paisley Park in turning purple on Friday, April 26. Buildings and landmarks scheduled to turn purple include the I-35W Bridge, IDS Center, Target Field, and Hennepin County Lowry Avenue Bridge. Paisley Park once again encourages cities and landmarks around the world to join in this purple tribute by lighting buildings, bridges, and landmarks purple throughout the week! Fans are also encouraged to wear purple and upload pictures to social media using #PrinceCelebration2019. Tickets for Celebration 2019, Paisley Park After Dark, and PRINCE: In Concert on the Big Screen are still available for a limited time at officialpaisleypark.com. —Information provided by Paisley Park

Black-owned businesses get a boost at Chameleon Shoppes

Crystal Lemar By Stephenetta Harmon Editor-In-Chief The NCAA frenzy may have left town, but shoppers can still take delight in the more than 20 small Black-owned businesses selling their goods and services at Gaviidae Common. The businesses are part of West Broadway Business & Area Coalition’s (WBBAC) Shop Northside partnership with Chameleon Consortium pop-up retail initiative. The Chameleon Consortium also partnered with Neka Creative and Impact Hub MSP to activate the shops, which take over the first and second floors at Gaviidae. The Chameleon Shoppes are chock full of everything from African clothing and accessories and jewelry to beard oils, body butter, and art. They not only help bring to life vacant retail space in what should be a prime downtown Minneapolis location, but also create afford-

able opportunities for minority- and women-owned businesses to expand their reach and marketing efforts. As a vendor, myself, they also offer an affordable opportunity to expand outreach efforts. Felicia Perry, WBBAC Business Resources Coordinator, said that was a primary goal in partnering. “The opportunity for our clients to test out their products and services with a different market than they typically have in their own neighborhoods is huge,” said Perry. “We also get to show off how we show up in pop-ups to a different commuMSR file photo nity — especially given the unique marketing strategies required to pull people into a place that we know was already struggling.” Shop Northside has two retail shoppes on the ground floor, along with a salon and barber experience featuring such services as threading, mini makeup makeovers, a braid bar, microblading and haircuts. Participating vendors include Tionna Dionne Fashion, Black Excellence, Bowtie Billionaire, Nature’s Syrup, TiAngy Designs, Bimpe Bata Footwear, Just Hair USA, We Wanna Rock, Body Love, Allure Cigars, Cald2Art and Christyle Closet. The shops will remain open through the end of April. After that, Perry said WBBAC will continue its longstanding efforts to create small business opportunities for its clients. “We’ve been doing this economic development work in different ways for a while now and we intend to continue to find creative ways to plug our business owners, artists and mak-

ers into economic opportunities as we discover them ourselves,” said Perry. This includes their monthly “Northside Business Lunch” — this month’s April 18 session is focused on “Retail Hustle” and tips for being a successful retail entrepreneur. “It’s a great experience to be downtown,” said Crystal Lemar, owner of Christyle. “It’s exciting because I’ve always wanted to open up or have a boutique in downtown Minneapolis. So this is my opportunity to live out my dream for the month of April.” Perry added that supporting and creating opportunities for these businesses to thrive also keeps money within the community. “This is where they stay and this where they spend their money,” she said. “That’s real ac-

tual economic and social development because we’re not just getting to know a new business, but we’re getting to know our neighbors, as well.” The Chameleon Shoppes are located in Gaviidae Common, located 651 Nicollet Avenue in downtown Minneapolis, and are open Wednesday-Friday, 10 am - 2 pm now through April 26. For more information on Shop Northside, visit northmpls.org. For more info on Chamelone Shoppes, visit chameleonconsortium.com. Stephenetta Harmon welcomes readers responses to sharmon@spokesman-recorder.com.

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Educator’s personal journey powers children’s storytelling

By Julia Johnson Contributing Writer

L

ocal author Donna Gingery has published her first children’s book Red’s Adventures: The Egg Pie to help youth find their superpower. Gingery, a 58-year-old educator of Prior Lake, MN, based the book on her life growing up in Selma, Ala. in the ’60s. The story follows a precocious African American girl named Red who overcomes everyday challenges with

humor and creativity as she grows up under the watchful eye of her Granny. Gingery’s goal in telling this story is to encourage kids to learn in fun ways. “I grew up my whole life with a disability I never knew I had,” she confided. “I disliked school as a child; I was just not good at it.” During her early years, Gingery’s mother knew that her daughter was not performing on the same academic level as most of her classmates. Her mother had her tested and was informed that Gingery had a learning

disorder. But the doctors or schools had nothing in place to help with her disability. Gingery’s mother disagreed with the diagnosis at the time. She believed that her daughter’s sharp memory and communication skills did not equate to her being mentally disabled. She decided to not tell Gingery the test results. “As I grew older, though, I knew something was wrong with me,” said Gingery. “I could not perform on the same level as my sister and it was a struggle for me to read.” Elementary, middle and high school continued to be a very steep hill for Gingery to climb. However, she pressed on. “I’m resilient, so I kept going; I graduated high school with a 1.7-grade point average [GPA],” she said. After high school, Gingery and her mother moved to Minnesota to live with her grandmother. Gingery enrolled in a community college, known as Metro. It was there that Gingery began to find her wings. “I loved college,” Gingery recalled. “My classmates and I worked together and helped each other out, and I was interested in what I was studying. As her interest in her studies grew, so did her GPA — she earned a 2.7 GPA, which later progress to a 4.0. It was also during college that Gingery decided to ask her mother about the disability of which she never knew the name. “My mother and grandmother told me that I had dyslexia, and I asked my mom why she never told

me.” Her mother responded, “Because I did not want you to grow up feeling bad for yourself.” She continued, “Looking back, I’m glad my mother did not tell me. I was five years old when The Bloody Sunday occurred, and in the second grade when schools integrated. I did not need another hindrance in my life, especially for a disability that at the time that they had no treatment for.”

Donna Gingery

Submitted photos

Gingery’s mother eventually moved back to Selma. However, Gingery decided to stay because “I just needed to be in a bigger environment.” After Gingery received her associate’s degree, she enrolled at the University of Minnesota where she studied the arts. “I loved the arts; I knew that’s where I was supposed to be, but it took me quite some time to get my degree,”

she said. Gingery now holds a B.A. from the University of Minnesota, a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Saint Mary’s University, and an Administration license K-12 from the University of Minnesota. She found work as a “para” (professional educator) and began her 25-year journey working with kids with emotional disorders. Her creativity and imagination are greatly utilized when de-escalating classroom situations. While working with children, Gingery realized that kids are lacking representation in the type of stories being told. It was this realization that inspired Red’s Adventures: The Egg Pie. Gingery said she believes that all elementary school students will love this book and the main character because the “superpower is that she is a normal kid and every kid can relate to that.” Gingery looks forward to writing more books to help children learn how to express and believe in themselves. When asked what she hopes people take away from her journey, she said, “God did not stop making brains when he made you.” For more on Donna Gingery and Red’s Adventures: The Egg Pie, go to dgsarts.com/about.html. Julia Johnson welcomes readers responses to jjohnson@spokesmanrecorder.com.

Robert Cray, Taj Mahal, Tower of Power headline Music in the Zoo series Get your coins together, music lovers — an all-star lineup has been unveiled for the 27th annual Music in the Zoo summer concert series. This year’s artists include, among many others, Robert Cray, Dave Koz and Friends the Taj Mahal Quartet, Keb’ Mo’ and Jontavious Willis, Tower of Power, Johnny Lang, and a “Pop 2000 Tour” hosted by Lance Bass of ‘Nsync with performances by O-Town, Aaron Carter and Ryan Cabrera.

Tower of Power

Submitted photos

Tickets go on sale Sat., April 20 at 10 am. All shows begin at 7:30 pm (unless otherwise noted) and take place at the Minnesota Zoo, located at13000 Zoo Blvd. in Apple Valley. Tickets will be available online atsuemclean.com/zoo and Etix.com, by phone at 1-800-5143849. Tickets can be purchased in-person at Bunker’s Music Bar & Grill, located at 761 N. Washington Ave. in Minneapolis on April 20 from 10 am – 1 pm only. For concert schedules and more info, visit suemclean.com/zoo. Keb’ Mo’

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April 18-24, 2019

PUBLIC MEETING: Implementation of body cameras for Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office deputies

BULLETIN

The Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office will be holding public meetings in the next few weeks to gather public input about the upcoming implementation of body cameras for deputies in Ramsey County. The meeting will cover an overview on the technology to be used, the vendor selected, the method selected for data storage, and the timetable for implementation will be shared. The discussion will also cover the ways in which the Minnesota Data Practice legislation governs data storage and information sharing. Public input and questions will be the bulk of the evening’s program. Details for Ramsey County District 4 are as follows: When: Tuesday, May 7 Where: Hallie Q. Brown Community Center, 270 North Kent Street, St. Paul Time 6:30 pm

Pioneering U of M professor, activist John Wright retires

Prof. John S. Wright

Submitted photo

The Departments of African American & African Studies and English at the University of Minnesota have announced the retirement of Professor John S. Wright after 35 years of exemplary faculty service. Wright’s service to the U of M precedes and extends beyond his years as a professor. In 1969, Wright was an undergraduate member of the Afro-American Action Committee and was instrumental in the 1969 Morrill Hall takeover. He drafted the takeover’s seven demands -- administrators agreed to most of the them the day after the takover. Those demands ultimately led to the establishment of an African American Studies Department and special advising and counseling resources for Black students. The Department of African American & African Studies began offering courses in

1970, followed by the Martin Luther King, Jr. Program supporting historically underrepresented communities, which Wright directed for three years as a graduate student. His activism for equity and diversity at the University has remained unbroken in recent years. Wright served on the Advisory Board for the provocative University Libraries 2017 exhibit ”A Campus Divided: Progressives, Anticommunists, Racism and Antisemitism at the University of Minnesota 1930-1942.” The exhibit demonstrated that University administrators deliberately maintained segregated housing for undergraduate and graduate students and oversaw political surveillance of Jewish and other politically active students. ”A Campus Divided” led directly to President Eric Kaler appointing a committee of historians, faculty, students, and alumni — including Wright — to examine the U’s troubling history and to arrive at appropriate responses. As a scholar, Wright has focused on African American and African cultural, intellectual, and literary history, oral tradition, and cultural movements such as the Harlem Renaissance and Black Arts Movement. He has multiple writing and research projects in progress as he transitions into retirement.

Public meeting Sen. Sandy Pa with PPaS

ISAIAH lead ers of Camph or Memorial Francis De Sa United Metho les are co-hos dist Church an ti ng an engagemen pas of Distric d St. t with MN Se t 65 on how to nator Sandy Pa cr ea te a caring econ family — no m pomy where ev atter what they ery Min nesota look like, whe money they ha n re they come from ve — can thri , or how much ve in a robust nizes the dign m ul ti-racial democ ity of every pe racy that reco rson. Residents of th ge district will te ll core issue prio their personal rities matter to narratives ab out why these us: (1) paid fa immigrants, (3 mily leave, (2 ) restoring the ) dr iv er vo ’s licenses for te , (4) affordable (5) protecting and equitable and expandin ch g M ild care, and in ne sotaCare. Sen. Pappas w ill be asked to share how sh ture to ensure e is leading in that real inve the MN Legisl stments are be collective futu ain g made on thes re. e issues for ou r When: Saturd ay, April 27 Where: Camph or Memorial U MC is located one-half bloc in St. Paul at 58 k east from D 5 Fuller Ave., al e and two bloc Time: 3-5 pm ks north of I-9 4.

— Information provided by the U of M Look for an interview with Professor John Wright’s legacy in future edition of the MSR.

Photo by Paige Elliott

Update: City of Mpls. transportation plans workshops Due to the hazardous weather on April 11, the Community Workshop for the Vision Zero Action Plan and Transportation Action Plan in South Minneapolis was rescheduled to May 9 (see the updated schedule below). The City of Minneapolis is hosting community workshops to inform City staff as they develop the Minneapolis Transportation Action Plan and the Vision Zero Action Plan. The Transportation Action Plan will be a 10-year plan to implement the transportation vision outlined in the Minneapolis 2040 Comprehensive Plan. It will develop strategies and actions on the following topics: advanced mobility, pedestrian, bicycle, transit, freight, street operations and street design. The Vision Zero Action Plan will be a three-year plan to advance the City’s commitment to ending traffic fatalities and severe injuries resulting from traffic crashes on our streets by 2027.

FIND WORKSHOP LOCATIONS BELOW: Downtown Mon. April 22, 4–6 pm Minneapolis Central Library, Doty Board Room, 300 Nicollet Mall, Mpls. North Wed. April 24, 5–7 pm Fairview Recreation Center, 621 N 29th Ave., Mpls.

Online Open House (Facebook Live) Tue. April 30, 6:30–7:30 pm City of Minneapolis Facebook page South Thurs., May 9, 5-7 pm Longfellow Recreation Center, 3435 36th Ave., S., Mpls.

You can also help the City prioritize efwforts in the Vision Zero Action Plan by completing a 10-minute survey at bit.ly/VisionZeroMpls. Find more info about the Vision Zero at visionzerompls.com. Find more info about the Transportation Action Plan at go.minneapolismn.gov. —Info provided by the City of Minneapolis

April 18-24, 2019

Legals

Employment

STATE OF MINNESOTA COUNTY OF HENNEPIN

DISTRICT COURT PROBATE DIVISION FOURTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court File No.27-PA-PR-19-156 NOTICE AND ORDER FOR HEARING ON PETITION FOR DESCENT OF PROPERTY

Estate of MARY ANN MILLER, Decedent

A Petition for Determination of Descent has been filed with this Court. The Petition represents that the Decedent died more than three years ago, leaving property in Minnesota and requests the probate of Decedent's last will, if any, and the descent of such property be determined and assigned by this Court to the persons entitled to the property. Any objections to the Petition must be filed with the Court prior to or raised at the hearing. If proper, and no objections are filed or raised, the Petition may be granted. IT IS ORDERED and Notice is further given, that the Petition will be heard on May 10, 2019, at 9:00 AM by this Court in Courtroom C556, Hennepin County Govt Center,300 South 6th St., Minneapolis, MN. (1) Notice shall be given to all interested persons (Minn. Stat. 524.1-401) and persons who have filed a demand for notice (Minn. Stat. 524.3-204). (2) Notice shall be given by publishing this Notice and Order as provided by law and by:Mailing a copy of this Notice and Order at least 14 days prior to the hearing date. By: Elizabeth V. Cutter, APril 3, 2019 3:06 PM Judge of District Court, Probate Division Sarah Lindahl-Pfieffer Court Administrator Self Represented Mark Miller 6345 Zane Avenue N, #`104 Brooklyn Park, MN 55429 (612) 816-0036 / markmiller7748@gmail.com

State of Minnesota Certificate of Assumed Name Minnesota Statutes Chapter 333 ASSUMED NAME: Music Box Karaoke and Sushi Lounge PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS: 2111 E. Franklin Avenue Suite 1 Minneapolis, MN 55404 USA NAMEHOLDER: Jing Jay Mei

2906 S. Parnell Ave Chicago, IL 60616 USA I, the undersigned, certify that I am signing this document as the person whose signature is required, or as agent of the person(s) whose signature would be required who has authorized me to sign this document on his/her behalf, or in both capacities. I further certify that I have completed all required fields, and that the information in this document is true and correct and in compliance with the applicable chapter of Minnesota Statutes. I understand that by signing this document I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Section 609.48 as if I had signed this document under oath. SIGNED BY: Jing Jay Mei, owner EMAIL FOR OFFICIAL NOTICES: encorekaraoke.jm@gmail.com DATED: 2/07/2019 11:59 PM

THE STATE OF MINNESOTA TO THE ABOVE-NAMED RESPONDENT: WARNING: YOUR SPOUSE (HUSBAND OR WIFE) HAS FILED A LAWSUIT AGAINST YOU FOR DISSOLUTION OF YOUR MARRIAGE. 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, (your spouse) has filed a lawsuit against you asking for dissolution of your marriage (divorce). A copy of the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage is attached to this Summons. 2. You must serve upon Petitioner and file with the Court a written Answer to the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, and you must pay the required filing fee. Answer forms are available from the Family Law Facilitator Program, Family Court Self Help Center located in the Family Justice Center, 110 South Fourth Street, Minneapolis, MN 55401. You must serve your Answer upon Petitioner within thirty (30) days of the date you were served with this Summons, not counting the day of service. If you do not serve and file your Answer, the Court may give your spouse everything he or she is asking for in the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. 3. This proceeding does not involve real property. NOTICE OF TEMPORARY RESTRAINING PROVISIONS: Under Minnesota law, service of this summons makes the following requirements apply to both parties to the action, unless they are modified by the Court or the proceeding is dismissed: (1) Neither party may dispose of any assets except (A) for the necessities of life or for the necessary generation of income or preservation of assets, (B) by an agreement of the parties in writing, or (C) for retaining counsel to carry on or to contest this proceeding. (2) Neither party may harass the other party. (3) All currently available insurance coverage must be maintained and continued without change in coverage or beneficiary designation. (4) Parties to a marriage dissolution proceeding are encouraged to attempt alternative dispute resolution pursuant to Minnesota law. Alternative dispute resolution includes mediation, arbitration and other processes as set forth in the district court rules. You may contact the Court Administrator about resources in your area. If you cannot pay for mediation or alternative dispute resolution, in some counties, assistance may be available to you through a nonprofit provider of a court program. If you are a victim of domestic abuse or threats as defined in Minnesota statutes, Chapter 518B, you are not required to try mediation and you will not be penalized by the Court in later proceedings. IF YOU VIOLATE ANY OF THESE PROVISIONS, YOU WILL BE SUBJECT TO SANCTIONS BY THE COURT. Date: 4/9/2019

Fitz

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So many really good players were in the hunt and playing well. Tiger used his great mind and experience and talent to pounce on the critical error made by Molinari, the leader, when he hit his approach shot in the water on the par three 12th hole. Tiger hit his shot on the green and made par and picked up two shots. Tiger then got hot and birdied three of the next four holes on the back nine, 13, 15 and 16, and never gave up the lead. Tiger said, “This is unreal. To be honest with you, the whole tournament has meant so much to me over the years. Coming here in 1995 for the first time, being able to play as an amateur and winning in ’97 and to come full circle 22 years later and be able to do it again… And just the way it all transpired today… There’s so many different scenarios that could have transpired on that back nine. “There were so many guys with a chance to win,” Tiger continued. “The leader board was absolutely packed, and everyone was playing well. You couldn’t have more drama than we all had out there. Now you know why I’m balding — this stuff is hard. “Just to come back here and to play as well as I did, and do all the little things well this week, and to do it here, this means so much to me and my family. This tournament and to have everyone here is something I’ll never ever forget.” And neither will any of us. Larry Fitzgerald can be heard weekday mornings on KMOJ Radio 89.9 FM at 8:25 am, on WDGY-AM 740 Monday and Friday at 9:10 am, and at www.Gamedaygold.com. He also commentates on sports 7-8 pm on Almanac (TPT channel 2). Follow him on Twitter at FitzBeatSr. Larry welcomes reader responses to info@larry-fitzgerald.com or visit Larry-Fitzgerald.com.

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SOe Continued from page 10

of four. TMR also reports that the Twins’ FCI dropped this season from $237.72 to $210.72. “I think we all are worried about rising costs,” Spike said. He added that the team this season introduced “family value” sections at the ballpark: “You can get a $4 hot dog, $3 bag of peanuts… A fan can come in and have a hot dog and a soda for $6. Or, they can have a beer and a hot dog for under $10.” Spike says that his company and the Twins will always look at ways to keep prices as affordable as possible. “We are trying to keep those prices down the best we can without having to pass that on to our guests.” Fight fans ‘robbed’ The year’s second 10-bout fight card at the Armory last Saturday once again ended in controversy. Headlined by Osseo’s Caleb Truax fighting New York’s Peter Quillin, the IBF super middleweight title eliminator bout was stopped after two rounds

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and ruled no decision after Truax suffered a cut from an accidental head butt. Quillin was winning according to the three judges’ scorecards, provoking loud boos from the record crowd (4,117) after the ruling. “Not me and Caleb but the Minnesota fans got robbed of this fight,” Quillin pointed out. “People would rather see him fight without an eye, but I’d rather have the guy be able to fight another day. I want to do it again with Truax here in Minnesota or come back to Brooklyn, my home.” “I’ll heal up and see what’s next,” Truax responded. Also announced: Minneapolis’ Jamal “Shango” James’ next fight is set for Saturday, July 13 at the Armory, his opponent to be announced later. “We are ready to go to get closer to this title shot,” he told me during a break in Saturday’s action. Charles Hallman welcomes reader responses to challman@spokesmanrecorder.com.

View Continued from page 10 The Lynx, which I have covered for 20 seasons, is respectful depending on who’s in their media relations office at the time. But away from home is remarkably different. WNBA league staff routinely do not differentiate between us and mainstream media types. The National Collegiate Hockey Conference, which I have covered since its inception, also treats me respectfully even though I don’t cover a specific league team. The MIAC commissioner sought me out recently and praised our coverage of his league. But back at home, especially with some home teams, my body of work that spans over four decades is instead treated like that of a first-time blogger. My treatment lately doesn’t compare to that accorded Wendell Smith, who wasn’t allowed to work in the baseball press box when

he covered Jackie Robinson’s first Major League Baseball season. Or that of basketball reporter Amber Dodd, who published in February her experience as the only Black reporter covering Mississippi State women’s basketball in hoopfeed.com. “I’m not the typical face you see in the White-maledominated [sports media] field… [With] my chocolateskinned self always standing out,” she recalled, “I didn’t feel welcomed.” The frequent disrespect by home teams such as the Wolves over the years has built up like journalist scar tissue, hard to ignore. To expect that I should be treated fairly and respectfully isn’t asking too much. I only want what Aretha demanded in song — a little respect. But these days it’s more like a B.B. King classic — the thrill of covering sports in this town is slowly disappearing. Charles Hallman welcomes reader responses to challman@ spokesman-recorder.com.

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April 18-24, 2019

TIGER WOODS WINS 15TH MAJOR! Ghettoizing Black media takes

S

unday, April 14 was a day in sports history that millions around the world will never forget. After 11 years of not winning a Major, Tiger Woods won the Masters and grabbed his fifth green jacket and 15th Major Championship. By any measuring stick, this win is one of the single greatest achievements in sports history. It’s among the greatest comebacks ever, along with those of Ben Hogan, Magic Johnson, Michael Vick, Joe Montana, Peyton Manning, George Foreman, James Connor, Josh Hamilton and others. What the world witnessed Sunday was Tiger’s first win at Augusta since 2005. That’s 14 years, the longest void in history between green jackets at the Masters.

After four back surgeries and a personal fall from grace shamed by scandal in losing his marriage, Tiger is back on top of golf. That’s what winning a Major Championship means for Tiger, restoring his pristine image and domination of the game since 1997 when he won his first Masters by 12 shots. Knee and back injuries had many believing Tiger was done as a Major winner. But last year, Tiger finish sixth in the Open Championship and second in the PGA Championship. He won the PGA TOUR Championship and finished second in the Fed-Ex Cup PGA playoff. So he has been very close recently, but win-

ning Majors is what it’s all about, especially for Tiger. This win is huge for golf; nobody moves the needle like Tiger. His last Major win was his career 14th in 2008 at Torre Pines. Thirtythree years ago in 1986, Jack Nicklaus won his 18th and final Major at age 46. It was called a win for the ages. Sunday, at age 43, Tiger became the second-oldest player to win the Masters. His final round of 70 gave Tiger his first-ever career comeback in a Major championship. He started the final round two shots behind Masters leader Francisco Molinari, the best player in Europe and reigning British Open Champion. Tiger won by one shot with -13 over reigning U.S. Open and PGA Champion Brooks Koepka, world number-

two Dustin Johnson, and Xander Schauffele, who has won twice this year. It was PGA career win number 81 for Tiger, the second-most all-time to Sam Snead at 82. Nicklaus’ 18 career Major wins appear to again be in Tiger’s sights. Masters Champion has such a ring to it. It’s the first Major of the year, and it’s golf’s greatest prize. Everyone dreams of winning the Masters at Augusta National. Tiger was brilliant all four days, 70-68-6770, under par each day. He trailed by four shots after day one and got in position playing in the final group on Sunday. ■ See Fitz on page 9

the fun out of sports coverage A man earlier this year said to me, “You get into games for free and talk to players. It must be fun.” I Charles quickly pointhallman ed out that I pay dearly the price of humiliation and disrespect for such “fun.” It once was fun covering sports. Nowadays, however, media days and post-game press conferences more resemble White House press briefings. Team media relations folk are more controlling than ever; players and coaches are less accessible than ever. During the recently ended Wolves season, my 30th year of covering them, I too often was subjected to media row musical chairs that other media seemingly didn’t have to go through. It wasn’t always that way, but this current Wolves media relations regime has mostly treated the local Black media as an afterthought, clustering the few of us together in a ghettoized fashion I call “the Black row.”

ANOTHER

VIEW

No press box seat for us at Midway’s new soccer spaceship MSR file photo dance, but I had no press box seat, nor was my name listed anywhere. They gave me a seat in the “overflow” section facing a nice white wall with no way of seeing the playing field. I left without ever taking off

Twins staff and higher-ups before they finally understood this reporter’s primary mission of covering their teams. Then the respect level greatly improved. We politely explained that I provide

“With my chocolate-skinned self always standing out, I didn’t feel welcomed.” Last weekend at the new spaceship-looking soccer stadium in St. Paul’s Midway, there to cover the Minnesota United FC’s first game, we left barely 15 minutes after our arrival. We followed MNUFC media relations protocol and emailed our intention to be in atten-

my coat. Other than the Gophers, the Minnesota Twins, the St. Paul Saints, the MIAC and the Lynx to a certain extent, our coverage is largely marginalized, underestimated and undervalued. It took a couple of “Come to Jesus” meetings with Gophers and

critical, unbiased analysis and other pieces for our readers, not rah-rah for the home team feel-good stories. I provide a different perspective and context not often found in the mainstream media. ■ See View on page 9

‘Meat-on-your-bones soul food’ joins Twins stadium vendors By Charles Hallman Contributing Writer Chef Gerard Klass and his wife Brittney are the first Black husbandwife duo with a concessions stand at the Minnesota Twins ballpark. The couple co-owns Soul Bowl, the only Black-owned vendor among the stadium’s 2019 new concessions offerings. “We’re serving authentic soul food,” Gerald Klass told us. Stadium-goers can create their own combination dishes, which include Shaggy Yellow Rice, JR Jong Jerk Chicken, Rich Ross Smoked Mushrooms, Sade Sweet Corn, Biggie BBQ braised beef, #MPLS Mac & Cheese, and Jill Scott Greens. “You can pick and choose,” he added. “We are always looking for hot

tips on brands and how they might fit,” Delaware North Sportsservice General Manager Pete Spike explained. “Chef and his wife are great folk. We had a sit-down with them and were very interested in how their product and brand could fit with the Target Field experience.

[home] games…the entire season,” Minnesota Twins Communications Manager Matt Hodson said. How does Soul Bowl fit in with the already pricey items at the Twins stadium? It is “pretty affordable,” in Klass’ view. According to the 2019 MLB Fan

Sports odds and ends

“This is our first time in a major stadium.” They have a great product.” Located at Section 120, the vendor provides “great soul food, great meat-on-your-bones food, something I think our fans will really enjoy,” Spike continued. “This is our first time in a major stadium,” Chef Klass admitted. “Soul Bowl will be here for all 81

Cost Index (FCI) report by Team Marketing Report (TMR), the cost of attending baseball games this season is about $4 more than last season (from $230.90 to $234.38). The FCI factors in the average cost of tickets, food and drinks, parking and souvenirs at a game for a family

Gerard and Brittney Klass

■ See SOe on page 9

Photo by Charles Hallman

State tournament photoS 2019 Here are a few pictures from the 2019 state boys’ basketball tournament.

PreP Scene Dr. mitChell Palmer mCDonalD

Brothers Kendall Brown and Courtney Brown Jr. (East Ridge) Nasir El-Amin (Minneapolis North)

DeLaSalle’s Andrew Irving (20) and Waseca’s Malik Willingham (2)

Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald welcomes reader responses to mcdeezy05@gmail.com. All photos by Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald Park Center’s Kahari Broadway (10) and Emmanuel Tamba (20)

Kerwin Walton (Hopkins)

Davon Townley Jr. (Minneapolis North) guards Chet Holmgren (Minnehaha Academy)