April 6, 2023 - MN Spokesman-Recorder

CITY COUNCIL RATIFIES AGREEMENT TO REIN IN MPD

By H. Jiahong Pan Contributing Writer

The Minneapolis City Council voted unanimously to ratify a courtenforceable agreement with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights (DHR) to rein in the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD).

The agreement, which will address community engagement, use of force and pretextual stops, comes after a two-year-long investigation by the DHR over the MPD’s patterns of racist and misogynistic policing and lack of effective accountability mechanisms.

The investigation was initiated days after George Floyd was murdered by former police officer Derek Chauvin in May 2020.

The City continues to await the findings of the Department of Justice (DOJ), which is conducting its own investigation

into the Minneapolis Police Department’s patterns of practice. Once the city reaches a consent decree with the DOJ, the Minnesota Department of Human Rights will modify the court-enforceable agreement so that it does not conflict with

the consent decree.

The Department of Human Rights engaged community members and police officers in a series of meetings last year, to understand what should be part of the agreement. This agreement, which originated

Opposition to MPD settlement agreement

By Abdi Mohamed Contributing Writer

Local police reform advocates gathered on Monday morning to call for a moratorium on the implementation of Minneapolis’s settlement agreement with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights (DHR), because the city took no accountability in the state agency’s findings.

The Unity Community Mediation Team (UCMT) held a press conference on April 3, in response to the settlement agreement between the city of Minneapolis and DHR on Friday, March 31. They expressed their frustration in feeling as though they were left out of the process despite having an influential role.

settlement agreement and your published narrative.”

The settlement agreement aims to reconstruct the city’s police department following the murder of George Floyd by former MPD officer Derek Chauvin. Last year, the DHR issued a report that found the police department were in violation of state law and exhibited a pattern of racial discrimination.

The Minneapolis City Council approved the settlement with an 11-0 vote, which was signed by Mayor Jacob Frey and Department of Human Rights Commissioner Rebecca Lucero last Friday.

with calls for humane treatment of residents and clarity from its police officers, is different from past policies and procedures because it forces the city to make the changes. “The City cannot walk away from this

Biden visits Twin Cities to tout green investments

Minnesota pols turnout for president’s visit

By H. Jiahong Contributing Writer

President Biden visited

the Twin Cities on Monday to tour a manufacturing plant in Fridley, and to tout his investment addressing climate change in his attempt to make the United States the leader in clean energy manufacturing.

The plant, run by engine manufacturer Cummins, announced a new line of hydrogen engines in March and is converting 100,000 square feet of their assembly lines to produce electrolyzers, which shocks water with electricity to produce hydrogen. Cummins says the investment is made possible because of increasing demand and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), as well as their goals to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

“As a result of this legislation, we saw demand for U.S.-made

electrolyzers skyrocket. And what we’ve seen here today is our ability to capitalize on that demand, and create 100 new jobs here in Fridley,” said Cummins Senior Vice President Tony

Satterthwaite. Their Fridley facility will be the first in the United States to manufacture them.

The IRA, which passed Congress in August 2022, invests

Rev. Ian Bethel, a pastor at New Beginnings Baptist Ministries where the press conference was held, was joined by members of the UCMT to voice their disapproval of the signed agreement. The organization, which dates back to the early 2000s, is a multicultural group of residents working to bring solutions around public safety and public health issues.

Rev. Bethel serves as the group’s chair and played a role in a 2003 agreement, which called for the reform of the Minneapolis Police Department then. The UCMT believes that their history in leading police reform and their involvement in reaching a settlement agreement were ignored.

“The content of the settlement agreement is really a reinstatement of the memorandum of understanding negotiated and signed by the Unity Community Mediation Team and the Minneapolis Police Department and vetted by the City Attorney’s office,” Bethel said.

“The Unity Community Mediation Team objects to being erased from history, and we insist that you correct the record and acknowledge the key role of the UCMT, and the diverse organizations and communities represented on the Unity Community Mediation Team in the

Commissioner Lucero and Mayor Frey both refer to the agreement as “a framework” to help guide the city in a direction that addresses race-based policing and upholds the integrity of public safety. Though the agreement is seen as legally binding, the city of Minneapolis and its police department admitted no fault to the findings of the DHR. This lack of accountability is what members of the UCMT believe falls short in the agreement.

“My biggest concern, as a Black man, is the lack of acknowledgement of the wrongdoing that our police officers have done to us,” said AJ Flowers, project coordinator for the Young People’s Task Force.

“If we cannot acknowledge the discrimination and abuse that we have suffered, our African American brothers and sisters and our Native brothers and sisters, along with all our melinated brothers and sisters within this city of Minneapolis, then we will never move forward on a path of true justice.” Minneapolis City Attorney Kristyn Anderson has stated that it is typical for a settlement agreement not to have an admission of liability. The agreement, she stated, was to come together for negotiations of reform.

Abdi Mohamed welcomes reader comments at amohamed@ spokesman-recorder.com.

in green jobs and technology. The act brings $8.5 billion in large-scale clean power generation and storage to the state, as well as associated jobs, over

North Minneapolis businesses concerned over Met Council’s proposed light rail extension

By H. Jiahong Pan

ContributingWriter

West Broadway business owners are among the latest group of people in North Minneapolis who are worried about the Metropolitan Council’s proposed plans to run a light rail line through their neighborhood.

Some of the concerns include parking removal, as well as how traffic and buses would be affected. They’re also worried about changes to buildings to accommodate street widening for the light rail, and concerns about how businesses, many of which are BIPOC-owned, would be affected during and after construction.

corridor that we have in North Minneapolis that has viable potential,” said Dean Rose, who owns the Broadway Liquor Outlet, as well as the building with 103 affordable housing units above it, on the northwest corner of West Broadway and Penn.

The Met Council’s consideration of an extension of the Blue Line light rail down West Broadway on the way to Brooklyn Park is a relatively recent development. The project, which has been in the works for almost a decade, was initially rerouted out of North Minneapolis because of gentrification concerns.

The agency is again proposing bringing the route back into the community because they were unable to convince Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad to run the light rail along-

side their tracks through Theodore Wirth Park.

These concerns come as Lyn-Park homeowners are worried about how the light rail would affect their property values and their ability to build generational wealth. They persuaded the Met Council to study running the route closer to Washington Avenue.

Business owners like Rose are concerned about how the light rail would affect buildings along the West Broadway corridor. As part of the 2007 West Broadway Alive plan, Rose worked to develop guidelines that require new buildings to build up to the sidewalk, as opposed to having off-street parking in front.

“We have been looking and developing West Broadway,” said Rose.

Rev. Ian Bethel is part of a group opposed to the DHR agreement.

Photo by Abdi Mohamed

■ See BIDEN on page 5

■ See MPD on page 5

Human Rights Commissioner Rebecca Lucero

Photo by H. Jiahong Pan

Cummins employee Brandon Moore introduced Biden.

Photo by Chris Juhn

Damon Williams (front) and Teto Wilson, owner of the barber shop and an aspiring developer, is worried about the light rail’s impact on his plans to redevelop buildings along the corridor.

Photo by H. Jiahong Pan

Metro

Protests continue more than a month after Yia Xiong’s police killing in St. Paul

By Cole Miska

Contributing Writer

Protests in St. Paul continue more than a month after the killing of a 65-year-old Hmong man, Yia Xiong, by officers from the St. Paul Police Department (SPPD). Over 100 people gathered in the Capitol rotunda Friday afternoon, March 24, to call for the arrest and charges filed against the two officers involved in the shooting.

Xiong was shot on Feb. 11 in the door of his apartment in Winslow Commons Apartments, a community home for the elderly and disabled, after a 911 call was placed saying a resident threatened others at a party with a knife.

Xiong walked to his apartment after officers arrived, and briefly entered it. Officer Noushue Cha kicked open the apartment door, and when Xiong emerged holding a knife, Officer Abdirahman Dahir fired his rifle, killing Xiong.

Snowdon Herr, chief organizer for the Justice for Yia Xiong organization, said the situation could have been handled differently. He called SPPD’s handling of the incident “irresponsible,” noting that Xiong was hard of hearing and did not speak fluent English.

Herr criticized officer Cha, who is also Hmong, for not attempting to speak with Xiong in Hmong. Herr also says the knife Xiong was carrying was a “cuaj puam,” which is a type of traditional Hmong “Riam” (literally translated as “knife”) that nearly every Hmong family

owns. A cuaj puam is commonly used for cutting meat, wood, or plants while gardening.

“The community is really upset and felt terrible and devastated that Yia Xiong was killed

call and report, and they might get killed just like Yia Xiong.” Herr says momentum for the protests has been growing, noting that fewer than 10 people came to the first protest in February.

offering support.

“I’ve been with his family as they break down crying,” Garraway Allen said during Friday’s protest. “I was with his brother and his sisters today and his nephew and his wife. And Mr. Xiong had children and it’s hard to see them all crying and just going through what so many of our families have gone through.”

Garraway Allen called the killing “wrong on so many levels.”

“I just feel like the situation could’ve got handled a little differently,” Garraway Allen said.

since his uncle’s death.

“My family has been trying to make sense of a loss that should’ve never happened,” Charles said. “It’s a pain that no family should ever have to endure knowing that a loved one was senselessly taken away, that their life was cut short by the very people that swore to protect them.

“These officers arrived on scene with disregard for my uncle’s life and they killed him in a matter of minutes, in less time than my speech today. If they had just taken a little bit of time to assess what was going on they would’ve seen that my uncle Yia was of no harm to anybody.”

so easily,” Herr said. “The elders of the community who are going to be doing their gardening in summer and in the springtime are also afraid that when they use their knife outside their homes or apartments doing their gardening, someone might

Toshira Garraway Allen, founder of Families Supporting Families Against Police Violence (FSFAPV), was one of the organizers of the protest last month. Garraway Allen has been in contact with Xiong’s family and has been

Minneapolis seeks community input on rebuilding the Third Precinct police station

“Not only was he hard of hearing, but he was 65 years old—he was an elderly person. He had disabilities because he lived in a disability building. He was a veteran so I think we should have a little more respect for him.”

Several state representatives and several members of

Xiong’s family spoke at the protest on March 24. Paula Yang, Xiong’s niece, called for the Black and Hmong communities to stand together in addressing the slayings of community members by police.

“As we all stand and watch Black lives deteriorate, today we say Black lives matter, because we lost so many brothers and sisters in the system through police brutality,” Yang said. “We need each other; we’re all going to embrace each other like this from now on.”

“I have a sister,” Yang said as she linked arms with Garraway Allen as a symbolic gesture of unity between the Black and Hmong communities.

The nephew of Yia Xiong, Charles Xiong, said his family has been going through “some of the darkest days of our lives”

Herr says he joined members of Xiong’s family and the Hmong community to meet with St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter and SPPD Chief Axel Henry after sending them a letter. Herr said the group left unsatisfied.

“They made it clear to us that no specific questions may be answered pending on [Bureau of Criminal Apprehension] investigations,” Herr said. “Nothing was really clarified or answered to our satisfaction.”

Herr and the Justice for Yia Xiong organization continue to call for two demands: that the two police officers involved need to be jailed and prosecuted by Attorney General Keith Ellison, and for reforms to be made at SPPD that improve both deescalation tactics and cultural awareness of the Hmong community and other minorities.

Cole Miska welcomes comments from readers at cmiska@ spokesman-recorder.com.

By H. Jiahong Pan

Contributing Writer

The city of Minneapolis is seeking the public’s help in deciding where it should locate the headquarters of the Third Precinct police station. Currently, the Third Precinct police officers work out of the City of Lakes building in downtown Minneapolis.

The Third Precinct’s headquarters, located at Lake Street and Minnehaha, was destroyed days after former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin, who used to work at that precinct, killed George Floyd by kneeling on his neck for nine minutes and 29 seconds. The city is considering restoring the precinct where it once stood, or several blocks away at 26th and Minnehaha.

Residents at an open house hosted by the Longfel-

low Community Council last May, mostly opposed the precinct’s headquarters returning to Lake and Minnehaha, with participants wanting the site to be dedicated as a place of care. “They want to see it become a pillar of the community that does not look like a fortress on the corner of one of the most important intersections in the area,” said Longfellow community organizer Bennett Olupo, adding that some wanted to see the building razed or repurposed for people needing access to services such as shelter, health care, food, jobs, and surviving sexual assault.

The city will host four meetings, with the first meeting being exclusively for business owners, to help understand the community’s thoughts on where the precinct should ultimately be lo-

cated. They are:

• Business owners: Tuesday, April 11, 6:30–8:30 p.m., at Hook and Ladder Theater and Lounge, 3010 Minnehaha Ave.

• General public: Thursday, April 13, 6:30– 8:30 p.m., at Midtown Global Market, 920 E Lake St.

• General public: Saturday, April 15, 10 a.m.– noon, at Roosevelt High School, 4029 S 28th Ave.

• General public: Wednesday, April 19, 6:30– 8:30 p.m., location TBD.

The city will provide food and beverages, as well as vouchers to Midtown Global Market vendors for the first 100 participants at the April 13 meeting.

H. Jiahong Pan welcomes comments from readers at hpan@ spokesman-recorder.com.

Justice for Yia Xiong protesters at the State Capitol on March 24.

Photo by Cole Miska

Photo by H. Jiahong Pan

It’s a pain that no family should ever have to endure knowing that a loved one was senselessly taken away, that their life was cut short by the very people that swore to protect them.

Can you fly safely?

By Sean J. Ennevor, MD

Guest Contributor

Travel of any sort can be a stressful experience for all, but there are special considerations for airline travel. Even prior to flying, one may have long distances to walk, baggage to carry, and encounter high levels of stress during air travel. While in flight, barometric pressure, noise, oxygen levels, or even the spaces where one sits all differ from what most people are familiar with.

The cramped aircraft cabin spaces make it difficult to move about freely. This immobility is known to increase the risk for medical conditions such as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolus. Both of these life-threatening conditions are more likely as one’s blood thickness (viscosity) goes up but your entire blood volume goes down, thus making clotting more likely.

Aircraft have less humidity, lower ambient pressure, and lower temperatures within

the cabin than other environments. Compared to sea level, there is lower barometric air pressure, lower humidity, and lower oxygen content.

The pressure within the aircraft cabin is equivalent to being at 5,000 to 8,000 feet of altitude. At that altitude there is less available oxygen in the air for one to consume. Although airflow exchange within the cabin is reported to be three times the rate seen to control hospital room infections, cold flu and other viruses still likely remain on airplane surfaces.

None of the above are ideal for patients with certain medical conditions, and some of these conditions are disproportionately seen in people of color. They include heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, and blood vessel disease. All listed conditions may be worsened by air travel due to the changes in the environment listed above.

Conditions such as hypertension, angina or diabetes can be

challenging to manage as traveling across time zones will impact medication timing or availability.

Time zone changes as one flies may cause “jet lag,” which presents as fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and sometimes confusion.

All symptoms are similar to what is possible during poor blood sugar control, stroke, or blood pressure changes from baseline.

Conditions such as hypertension, angina or diabetes can be challenging to manage as traveling across time zones will impact medication timing or availability.

Additional conditions of note include any recent post-surgical patient; they have increased needs as a lower blood count, or anemia, sometimes due to a

procedure’s blood loss, increases oxygen needs even more.

Gastrointestinal issues are common during flight as trapped gasses expand in one’s gut as altitude increases. A recent abdominal surgery or colonoscopy both have the potential for gas to remain within enclosed body spaces immediately after the procedure. Flying soon after such procedures could cause gas expansion in one’s gastrointestinal tract. The recent procedures and lack of access to one’s regular diet may lead to extreme distress from gas pains.

Dehydration is also a common condition when flying due the lower cabin pressures and dry air, as the higher one goes the drier it gets. Blood pressure may also be elevated or decreased during air travel due to lower cabin pressures and the overall stressors of travel.

The consumption of caffeine and alcohol will cause additional drying of airways,

skin or eyes. Drying of mucosal surfaces is irritating and will exacerbate coughs, cause severe cracks in skin, or even create issues with one’s contact lenses if worn.

In general, an individual with any unstable medical condition should get clearance from their physician prior to flying. Anyone with poor blood pressure control, asthma, emphysema, recent stroke, or recent surgical procedure (including ear or neurosurgical procedures) should make their provider aware that they are traveling.

Special consideration should be taken with air travel during pregnancy, as the physiologic changes of pregnancy may increase the risk of DVT, cause premature delivery or placental issues. Abdominal trauma from the “lap belt” during turbulence could also be detrimental during flight.

Psychiatric conditions can also be worsened by airline travel due to the added stressors, some psychiatric medi-

cations that affect digestion, and anxiety triggers due to enclosed space with crowding.

What can one do?

1) Talk to your provider if you are uncertain of the impact of air travel with your current conditions.

2) If on medications, have a plan to be consistent as to when to take them (carry medications on board).

3) Wash hands often and keep hands from your face.

4) Move frequently during air travel, which may help with GI issues and blood circulation.

5) Consider lower body compression garments to help with preventing clots.

6) Plan out diabetic management needs, particularly if crossing time zones.

7) Plan to arrive early and focus on relaxation techniques to lower stressors as you are able.

8) Stay hydrated with water while traveling and consider skipping alcohol and large amounts of caffeine.

Statistically, flying is a very safe and efficient way to travel if able, but with these considerations the experience can be made even safer and more comfortable.

Sean J. Ennevor, M.D. graduated with a B.A.S. in biology and economics from Stanford University, and as a Dean’s Scholar from UCLA School of Medicine where he received his MD. He completed his medical residency and fellowship in anesthesiology at Yale University, where he was chief resident and on staff. He practiced medicine in the Twin Cities for over 14 years, and presently serves as an advisor and investor for medical technology companies throughout the country.

MGN

themselves

result in an arrest or citation.

Continued from page 1

agreement. It is only the court that can and will end this agreement after the City reaches full, effective and sustained compliance with the terms of this agreement,” said Human Rights Commissioner Rebecca Lucero.

The agreement, which differs from a consent decree, includes developing a training curriculum for officers who want to be field trainers within 30 days. “The field training officer position was a part-time role that relied on volunteers and self-selection. And that led to inconsistent training,” said Minneapolis City Council Vice President Linea Palmisano.

It will also require the department to develop clear policies and procedures to make discretionary choices and searches. Officers and the public will have 45 days to comment on those policies and Minneapolis police officers will have to engage the community in multiple languages and at places and times convenient for both parties. The only exception is if the Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) board requires that changes be made. The Minneapolis Police Department will evaluate the policies annually. The agreement also bans pretextual stops, as well as discrimination based on race, gender or other protected classes. Officers will be required to tell individuals they stop why they are being stopped, and provide their business card upon request, or if a stop does not

They will also need to activate their body camera, document why the stop happened, and provide the case number to the person they stopped upon request. The agreement does not ban stops where there is reasonable suspicion of criminal activity. The MPD will also be required to develop training on how officers should take a trauma-informed approach to interacting with minors within six months. Minneapolis police officers will also have to offer access to mental and behavioral health and substance abuse services.

The agreement will also require the City to create a panel composed solely of the police chief, command staff, and police officers responsible for making policy changes within six months of when the agreement goes into effect, to review use of force, stops, searches and arrests to determine if it influences a policy change. The agreement goes into effect once the court approves it. It will also limit use of force to what is reasonable, necessary and proportional based on what the officers are facing, and require them to use de-escalation tactics. They will also be required to produce a report on use of force and promptly obtain medical treatment for those injured. They will not be able to direct paramedics to sedate those under their care with any medication, including ketamine, if they suspect the person being arrested is experiencing excited delirium.

The agreement also stipulates that officers cannot use chemical agents or crowdcontrol weapons to influence

and apprenticeship training programs to make sure this happens,” said Biden.

or disperse a crowd unless approved by the MPD chief, or unless officers and other people are facing imminent threat. In such cases, chemical agents and crowd-control weapons can only be used on the person initiating the threat.

• Bans excited delirium training

• Officers can no longer be coached or verbally notified, without documentation of their misconduct being included in their record

takes effect.

At a press conference hosted by the City on Friday morning, MPD Chief Brian O’Hara welcomed the agreement.

“This agreement will ensure that Minneapolis police will have the policies, training, support and resources that they need to deliver the highest quality of policing services that our residents deserve,” said O’Hara.

In response to a question that existing policy requires what the court-enforceable agreement asks for, O’Hara said, “You have a mandate to make certain investments that cities just do not make, because this is a very expensive process. It’s very manpower intensive. And ultimately, you have to prove to near perfection to an independent evaluator and independent monitor that your cops are actually carrying this out,” says O’Hara.

For chemical agents, officers must provide ample warning to individuals before dispersing the agent. Even then, they can only use enough of the chemical agent to make contact with individuals and evaluate if they need to disperse more. Officers will not be able to use chemical agents on anyone who is handcuffed or restrained.

The MPD will also be required to create a searchable database of disciplinary action for all officers rendered on and after June 8, 2020, within 90 days. They will also be required to create a website where people can report officer misconduct.

Additional requirements include:

• Requires off-duty officers to abide by on-duty guidelines while picking up side work

• Requires officers to identify

• Prohibits retaliation

• Implements early intervention system

It will also require the City to hire an independent evaluation firm that will ensure Minneapolis complies with the consent decree within 120 days of the effective date of the agreement. The evaluator will provide progress reports twice a year, allow the public to provide feedback on it, and survey the public annually on how satisfied they are with the policy changes. They will also maintain a website that has their budget, evaluation plan, court filings by the City and DHR, and schedules of upcoming meetings. The City will also create a unit to liaise between the mayor and the independent evaluator, to implement the agreement within 60 days of when it

Even with the changes outlined in the agreement, the city says they have already implemented what has been stipulated. O’Hara says it’s promising, even though they remain over 150 officers short, they have seen an increase in applications to the agency and are speaking with some officers who want to return. The chief also says the city is safer than it was a year ago.

The agreement does not address DHR findings that Minneapolis police officers targeted activists of color without a public safety objective, which the City disagreed with. Instead, the City continues to require police officers to justify the reasons for their actions. These accounts will be subject to examination by a review panel.

The agreement also allows

the City to avoid admitting any wrongdoing. “We don’t have to admit to all findings … because we want to resolve legal claims,” said City Attorney Kristyn Anderson.

The Department of Human Rights filed another lawsuit in Hennepin County District Court with the updated agreement to get court approval. The court will then decide how to move forward.

The city is not sure how much it will cost to implement the agreement. However, they anticipate having to invest heavily in information technology and early intervention systems. Mayor Frey’s budget has set-aside $2 million for investments this year and proposes $3 million for next year. “I am not confident that will be enough,” said Frey.

Meanwhile, the DHR will implement the courtenforceable agreement using resources they get from their annual request to the governor and lieutenant governor. This year, they are requesting $1.7 million over the next two years, which would allow them to hire two more full-time equivalent staff.

The agreement will be implemented in the MPD by first training police captains, who will then train the rank-and-file officers. O’Hara cautions that change won’t happen overnight. “Next week does not look much different than today,” said O’Hara. “This is not something that the city has gotten into overnight, and we’re not going to get out of this completely overnight.”

H. Jiahong Pan welcomes reader responses to hpan@spokesmanrecorder.com.

Continued from page 1

the next seven years.

The bill also calls for investment in technical trades programs to train people to work at these jobs. “We’re working with companies, community colleges, technical schools, union members,

Blue line

Continued from page 1

Cummins currently employs about 2,000 people across its three Minnesota facilities—its two other facilities in Shoreview and White Bear Lake—1,000 at the Fridley plant, 600 of whom currently work on generators that will be retrained to produce electrolyzers. They will also hire an additional 100 people to support its production.

“That [planning] allows for interaction of customers and pedestrians and community members to engage in commerce in a comfortable way that is accessible to bikes, pedestrians, autos and buses,” he adds. “When you make this shift to putting light rail down West Broadway,” he continues, “it flies in the face of all the development principles that we’ve been investing in for decades.”

It also makes it hard for Teto Wilson, who owns the building that houses his business—Wilson’s Image Barbers and Stylists, across the street from Broadway Liquor Outlet—to decide whether or not to buy other buildings along the corridor to rebuild.

“You’re literally taking a building I would have purchased at full price and you’re making it much smaller,” said Wilson, referring to a building he is interested in that the Met Council wants to remove five feet of to allow the light rail to pass through. “[It’s] putting a lot of people that have projects either in the works or in their minds in a holding pattern.”

Parking is also another issue for business owners such as Tara Watson, who owns a chiropractic prac-

Although hydrogen is the most abundant element in the atmosphere, it is also hard to isolate by itself. It can be obtained by shocking water into hydrogen and oxygen in an electrolyzer, but most of the hydrogen produced today involves blowing hot steam on methane gas. Aside from Cummins’ efforts in Fridley, St. Cloud received $1.09 million from the state to install an electrolyzer at their wastewater treatment plant. Despite the investment,

tice and franchises an Anytime Fitness on West Broadway. “We already struggle with parking on the avenue [at] certain times of the day because of the on-street parking regulations,” says Watson. “It just makes it really, really difficult now for you to reduce it down to one lane on each side with something going through the middle, congesting the area more [and] taking away people’s businesses.”

Business owners like Wilson are also worried that removing parking will make it harder for those with mobility access needs to visit their businesses by Metro Mobility or taxi.

“If I have a customer that’s in one of those Metro Mobility vans and they pull up in front of my business, they’re not going to be able to stop, get out, use the ramp, let the customer out, and bring them into the shop,” worries Wilson. “Because you’re gonna create a traffic bottleneck.”

People may have a harder time getting to West Broadway businesses by light rail because the Met Council is proposing up to three stops on West

Broadway, which is less than the nine and a half bus stops that exist today. Depending on the alternative, trains may either stop at Illion/James and Aldrich/Bryant or just at Emerson. Both alternatives call for the light rail to also stop at Penn.

“The train is gonna go right past all these other businesses,” said Wilson. “I just don’t see how it’s going to truly benefit the people here. What about us that have businesses here? It’s gonna be more of a negative impact for us versus having people to … not have to drive any longer.”

Some West Broadway business owners believe the Met

most hydrogen fuel cell vehicles mostly exist in California, with some examples being used in public transit facilities in Illinois and Ohio. And although no Minnesota agency has immediate plans to use vehicles powered by hydrogen, New Flyer in St. Cloud is one of two bus manufacturers in the U.S. who produces hydrogen-fueled buses.

H. Jiahong Pan welcomes reader responses to hpan@ spokesman-recorder.com.

Council would be better off running a shuttle with San Francisco-like cable cars or building a rapid transit bus route, similar to the C and D lines. “I don’t think you’re going to have anyone complaining about a [line similar to the] C Line compared to a rail line,” said Wilson. Metro Transit does indeed plan to build such a route on West Broadway after 2030, that runs to Robbinsdale Transit Center and 38th Street Station via Washington and Cedar Avenues, replacing Routes 14 and 22.

It’s possible that some of the concerns businesses have may be addressed later this year when the Met Council releases its report required by the federal government on how the project will affect the surrounding neighborhood, and what they plan to do to mitigate those concerns.

Although Metro Transit staff did not respond to repeated email requests to comment on West Broadway corridor businesses’ concerns, they plan to host community meetings to get more feedback this coming month. Their next meeting will be on Monday, April 17, from 5 – 7 p.m., at Sanctuary Covenant Church, 710 W Broadway Ave. They also have a virtual meeting scheduled for Wednesday, May 17, from 5 – 6 p.m.

H. Jiahong Pan welcomes reader responses to hpan@spokesmanrecorder.com.

“The City cannot walk away from this agreement. It is only the court that can and will end this agreement after the City reaches full, effective and sustained compliance with the terms of this agreement.”

“The train is gonna go right past all these other businesses. I just don’t see how it’s going to truly benefit the people here.”

(l-r) Rep. Ilhan Omar, Sen. Amy Klobuchar, Fridley Mayor Scott Lund, Gov. Tim Walz Photo by Chris Juhn

Metropolitan Council planners are evaluating this section of West Broadway for a possible extension of the Blue Line. Photo by H. Jiahong Pan

Porte Agency

Black Business SPOTLIGHT

By Abdi Mohamed Contributing Writer

When Liberian-born entrepreneur and designer Vanessa Lawson looked at the state’s landscape of modeling talent and agencies, she found little representation of Black and Brown models, who she felt were an underserved community in the Twin Cities.

A native of Brooklyn Park, Lawson founded Porte Agency, a model and talent agency, in 2018. The company is dedicated to leveling the playing field for those from marginalized communities in terms of visibility and representation.

Shortly after the launch, Lawson was sent on a 13-month deployment to Kuwait and Iraq as a paralegal by the U.S. Army.

Upon her return to the United States, Lawson’s goal of launching Porte was sidetracked once again by the coronavirus pandemic in 2020.

Nearly four years later, Lawson held a fashion exhibit at the state capitol in February, where the work of several Black clothing designers was on display in the rotunda, followed by a discussion panel that included all of the designers.

“I’m really happy that we were able to bring it together this year and do it during Black History Month. We were the first people ever to host something like that at the Minnesota state capitol,” she stated.

Lawson is a designer herself, having created the swimsuit brand Porte Celestial. The fash-

Creating opportunities for Black designers

cal designers. “I was definitely on board, and it was just amazing to see how many people were able to come and support and be able to talk about their accomplishment, their greatness and what they want to do for the future,” she said.

“I’ve always been one to think that bringing people together…for a greater cause was amazing,” Carter agreed. “Hearing about why she was doing it and where the event was being held, I just thought it was phenomenal that she wanted to put our voices out there and have our designers really be highlighted.

“I definitely think that my background, and just want-

ing to see people understand Black artists, is a part of why I really wanted to join. It was a blessing that these designers decided to take a chance on us and see what could come from it,” Carter continued. “So that’s how we got into the mix of these designers. They’re all absolutely phenomenal, talented, knowledgeable, and they were able to really speak their truth and speak to their story in a way that I just thought was very moving and got to the point of where art connects us.” Participants in the exhibit expressed their appreciation not only as an opportunity to promote their brands or designs but

ion event earlier this year was the agency’s first showcase, Lawson has been building a roster of talent, with her first model call garnering 200 applicants. The response from the community gave her the insight that there was a large void to be filled in the talent world.

ted their work, but they couldn’t get opportunities because [agencies were] already representing someone who looked like them,” Lawson recalled.

“When you go on modeling agency websites, there’s nobody that really looks like us. They just have one Black

of George Floyd created a moment where there was a lot of rhetoric about support for Black people, but little action to show it. Frustrated by this, she decided to kick things into gear and create an opportunity for local Black designers to have their work seen at a high level.

To do this, Lawson recruited two of her peers, Destiny Carter, who she had met through the military, and Muna Mohamed, who she met in college. All three were students at the University of Minnesota and had the desire to bring change to the fashion world. They worked closely together for several months leading up to the February event at the capital.

“I would hear conversations among models that they couldn’t get representation. They submit-

These

With Tax Day approaching, there’s no time like the present to get started on your 2022 returns and submit them well before the April 18 deadline.

This year, you have a few extra days to complete your taxes. With the typical deadline of April 15 falling on a weekend, followed by Emancipation Day on Monday, this year’s filing date is on Tuesday, April 18.

“Though there are a few extra days to file, make sure to still give yourself ample time to gather and organize your tax information to take advantage of any and all tax deductions, or other tax breaks that may apply to you and your family,” says Kelly Perez, Wealth Advisor for J.P. Morgan Private Bank. “Many key deductions that may reduce your tax bill or provide a refund are often left on the table due to lack of preparation. Whether you file on your own or work with a paid tax professional, the initial groundwork is the key to maximizing your benefits.”

Ready to submit or get started? Here are some tips to help simplify the process, maximize your potential refund or minimize your tax burden before you finalize your return.

• Get organized. Make sure you have important documents like last year’s return, current W-2s, 1099s and mortgage interest statements on hand. You’ll also want to gather receipts for tax-deductible pur-

chases, travel, charitable contributions and other potential write-offs. You can look online to find checklists of documents you might need to help you file.

• Be aware of tax law changes. While taxes are inevitable, what you may owe or get refunded might not be. As you finalize or start your 2022 tax return, be aware of changes to federal, state and local tax laws that could affect your refund or how much you owe. For example, if you benefitted from the child tax credit, earned income tax credit or child and dependent care credit on your 2021 return, don’t be surprised if you get a smaller refund this year. Credits expanded as part of federal Covid relief packages have now returned to pre-pandemic levels.

• Are you working from home permanently? If you have a home-based business, you might qualify for a home office tax deduction. You can potentially write off expenses for a part of your home you only use for business purposes.

• To itemize or not to itemize. Determine whether you’ll itemize your expenses or take the standard deduction. If you think your qualified expenses will be more than the 2022 standard deduction ($12,950 for most singles and $25,900 for most married couples filing jointly), it might be worth it to itemize. Taking the standard deduction can make the filing process easier, but it could

person or one Asian person. That’s not representation.”

Lawson said that the murder

For Mohamed, it was a chance to grow her sense of community while providing a platform for lo-

mean you pay more in taxes or receive a smaller refund.

• Contribute to retirement accounts. You can fund a traditional or Roth IRA through the April 18, 2023, tax filing deadline and have it count for 2022. Traditional IRA contributions lower your tax bill right now, while your Roth IRA withdrawals are tax-free in retirement. You can contribute up to $6,000 to an IRA each year, or—if you were 50 years or older in 2022—up to $7,000 of your earned income.

• Seek help when you need it. If you have a more comprehensive tax return, it can be a good idea to work with a certified public accountant (CPA). If you need assistance in general, check if you qualify for free in-person or remote programs offered by the IRS or local organizations depending on your income, age and disability status.

ing

prepaid

Need more time? If you can’t file by April 18, you can fill out a Form 4868 that will extend

ganized now will help make tax season easier this year and put you in better shape for years to come. For more tips to help you make the most of you and your family’s finances, visit J.P. Morgan’s U.S. Tax Center by scanning the code to the right or go to privatebank.jpmorgan. com/gl/en/insights/planning/ us-tax-center.

When you go on modeling agency websites, there’s nobody that really looks like us. They just have one Black person or one Asian person. That’s not representation.

(l-r) Destiny Carter, Porte Agency founder Vanessa Lawson, and Muna Mohamed

Photo by Abdi Mohamed

Liberian designer Victor Farmah’s fashion was featured at the State Capitol.

Photo courtesy of Facebook

Arts & Culture

Teach for America welcomes influential author of ‘Caste’ to Twin Cities Isabel

By Sheletta Brundidge

Contributing Writer

s an elementary teacher at a charter school in North Minneapolis, Averi Turner has big dreams for her students—and herself.

“Education will be my career. I’m in a principal certification program and will go on to get a doctorate starting in the fall. I want to write curriculum and be a school superintendent,” said Turner, 26. “I’m not in this work for myself. I’m in it to see my scholars, their families, and my community flourish.”

Turner left Minneapolis to attend Morgan State, an HBCU in Maryland, and she thought she might stay on the east coast to work for the government. Instead, she connected with Teach for America Twin Cities (TFA), and in 2019, returned to her hometown to begin a twoyear teaching commitment.

“The communities we go into are Black and Brown,” she said. “Research shows these children learn best from educators who look like them. TFA put me in a position where I could show my leadership.”

Teach for America recruits and trains a national corps of equityminded educators like Turner. They teach for two years in underserved, low-income schools and commit to building an anti-racist and studentcentered education system.

Turner is aware of the stubborn achievement gap in Minnesota, where students of color consistently show lower test scores and graduation rates than their White counterparts.

“We need to push for more deep conversations about this,” said Turner. “We need individuals who have the lived experience to push the agenda. We can’t continue to talk around the problem—we want solutions.”

That’s why Turner is eager to hear writer Isabel Wilkerson speak when Wilkerson visits the Twin Cities later this month. Pulitzer Prize-winner Wilkerson is the author of “Caste: The Origins of Our

Wilkerson to reflect on educational inequities

ca Twin Cities.

“To eliminate oppression and disparities, we need a cross-sector coalition to address systems from housing to healthcare to education. We are an anti-racist and student-centered organization that advocates for doing right by all our kids,” he said.

Since arriving in Minnesota in 2009, Teach for America Twin Cities has built a network of almost 1000 alumni; about half work in education, as teachers, administrators, policy-makers, and other leaders.

Now 27, Marcus Berg is part of that alumni group. He’s another Minneapolis native who left home for college—in his case, to attend Dartmouth, an Ivy League college in New Hampshire.

“I think about what way I can support students who look like me, help them learn and grow,” he said.

“There can be systemic change when you have a community of people passionate about education.”

Berg recently completed his master’s degree in education and plans a career devoted to improving educational equity. He will be in the audience listening to Wilk-

influential thinkers on race to a local audience. Previous distinguished lecturers have included Robin DiAngelo, author of “White Fragility,” Ibram X. Kendi, author of “How to Be An Antiracist,” and Heather McGhee, author of “The Sum of Us: What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together.”

Exposing America’s Invisible Scaffolding” featuring NY Times bestselling

Discontents,” (Random House).

The groundbreaking best-seller makes the case that American racial tensions can be explained “through the lens of caste,” a deeply rooted but often hidden hierarchy of race and class that places White people at the top and Black people at the bottom.

Teaching for America Twin Cities’ mission

Equity and closing Minnesota’s historic achievement gap is the top priority of Teach for America Twin Cities. The organization has set

To see her speak will be an honor, a growth opportunity. It will be a master class to be in her presence.

On the evening of April 28, Wilkerson will take the stage at Northrop Auditorium at the University of Minnesota. Wilkerson’s keynote lecture, entitled “Exposing America’s Invisible Scaffolding,” will be presented by Teach for America Twin Cities and the Minneapolis Foundation.

an ambitious goal of doubling the number of students reaching key educational milestones in the communities it serves by the year 2030.

“The idea of caste is especially relevant in Minnesota. We’re known as one of the best places to live—if you’re White. Almost the exact opposite is true if you’re Black,” said Charlie Braman, managing director of Teach for Ameri-

Because of a disruptive early childhood related to his mother’s addiction, Berg was put in a special ed program when he started elementary school. It was a fourth-grade teacher at his public school who, according to Berg, “Saw me. Got to know me. Pushed me and believed in me,” and thereby changed his schooling—and his future.

In part, it was that powerful connection that prompted Berg to become part of Teach for America when he graduated from college in 2019. His two-year TFA teaching commitment was at Hiawatha Academies, a network of highperforming college-preparatory schools focused on closing the opportunity gap in Minneapolis.

“TFA was a pivotal force in shaping my life. It gave me tools and helped me have confidence in my teacher self,” Berg said. “As a teacher, I view myself as a facilitator and a mentor. I’m going on an educational journey with my students.”

Berg has continued to work in the classroom, now as a high school history teacher. That role puts him in a professional group that’s sadly small: according to the organization Black Men Teach Twin Cities, fewer than 1 percent of Minnesota’s 65,000 teachers are Black men.

erson’s vision for change.

“To see her speak will be an honor, a growth opportunity,” Berg said. “It will be a master class to be in her presence.”

Wilkerson’s Minneapolis lecture will be the fourth DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) speaker event that Teach for America Twin Cities and the Minneapolis Foundation have presented.

Each of these signature events ha ve brought best-selling authors and

Courtesy of Random House

author and Pulitzer Prize-winner Isabel Wilkerson will be emceed by MPR’s Angela Davis. The live lecture is scheduled at Northrop Auditorium at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities on Friday, April 28 at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $10. For information and tickets, visit bit.ly/IsabelWilkersonTFA

Sheletta Brundidge welcomes reader comments to sbrundidge@ spokesman-recorder.com.

Envisioning the future of Minneapolis by elevating community dialogue through a series of three lectures with innovators working in Minneapolis and around the country.

Isabel Wilkerson Courtesy of Random House

Paid family and medical leave make a better Minnesota

By Cassie Sawyer

I am an art therapist and a yoga and reiki practitioner. My business is called Root to Crown Healing and Wellness, and I am a Black female solopreneur. I focus on helping our community heal from racial trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, and grief.

The African Diaspora gives meaning to the vice president’s historic trip

By Anne Marea-Griffin

Vice President Kamala Harris’ historic Africa trip to Ghana, Tanzania, and Zambia may be over, but the economic and cultural legacy will be felt for years to come.

The trip comes just as the U.S. is resetting its relationship with the continent. In August, the White House released a new U.S.-Africa strategy followed by the fanfare of the U.S.-African Leaders Summit in December, where 49 African heads of state convened in Washington.

Over the last three months, five Cabinet members and 18 senior U.S. officials traveled to Africa. Harris’ trip reinforces the new U.S. posture toward Africa, setting the stage for the president’s own travel to the continent later this year.

Harris didn’t shy away from addressing some of the continent’s challenges, especially Africa’s debt, energy, and food insecurities along with governance concerns. But the resounding theme of her trip highlighted a variety of mutually beneficial partnerships through enhanced trade and investment.

Africa is rich in natural resources, including critical minerals key to the planet’s renewable future and essential to stemming climate change. Moreover, Africa holds 69% of the world’s arable land and has the potential to be a global breadbasket.

In addition to recognizing Africa’s immense natural resources, Harris expressed appreciation for Africa’s human resource potential. The median age on the continent

is 19 and by 2050, nearly onequarter of the earth’s inhabitants will live in Africa.

Harris expressed the importance of capitalizing on young African ‘dreamers’ who were entrepreneurial and innovative. Her speeches also singled out the role of women. She announced a $1 billion publicprivate Global Initiative geared toward building economic empowerment and security for women and youth in Africa.

vice president visiting Africa.

The importance of the Diaspora was a continuous refrain during her trip. When visiting the slave dungeons at Ghana’s Cape Coast Castle, she spoke of the necessity of learning history despite the pain and the “anguish (that) reeks from this place.”

Harris also visited Ghana’s Black Star Square, a monument representing freedom from colonialism, noting Ghana’s outreach to the Diaspora through its “Year of the Return.” In a touching reminder of Harris’ own Diaspora story, she visited her grandfather’s old residence in Zambia.

My business really picked up during the pandemic, and especially after the increased rise in race-based stress. As a solopreneur, it’s really important to plan for our lives (trips, travel, holidays, etc.), but there are just some things that we can’t always plan for like emergencies.

As a self-employed person, getting secondary coverage for disability insurance or any insurance that would cover a leave of absence (e.g., maternity leave, illness) is not an option for me. It has proven to be impossible, as all insurers that I have reached out to have informed me that unless I was working for a business that offered it to all of their employees, I did not have the option for coverage as a selfemployed person.

hold space for others in our community because therapy doesn’t work that way.

In the past, I haven’t had the time for proper bereavement when I have lost family members. I haven’t been able to show up and care for my family and friends when they are sick or have babies, in the way that I would like to, because for me, there is no way that I can take time off as a

ability to start a family without fear that I would not be able to start my private practice back up like lots of therapists in our community end up doing.

It also would allow me to not fear getting sick or injured because I would know that I have access to something that can help support me while I am out.

I know that I am not the only business owner in this predicament. My story is one version of a similar story that so many solopreneurs and small business owners share. Passing “Paid Family and Medical Leave” makes a better Minnesota because it allows us all to take care of each other.

All my clients do better when I am doing better because our health ripples through the community. We all do better when we all do better, so I urge the legislature to pass the Paid Family and Medical Leave bill (SF2 and HF 2) for a more supported Minnesota.

Buoyed by President Biden’s $55 billion pledge to Africa during the December summit, she underscored themes of collaboration through public-private partnerships like the Digital Transformation Initiative for Africa. By collaborating with the private sector on the continent, the U.S. government can be exponentially more impactful than it could be on its own.

But beyond the potential for stronger U.S.-Africa trade and development, it was impossible to ignore the historic significance of the first-ever member of the African Diaspora to rise to the role of U.S.

In Tanzania, Harris met with President Samia Hassan, as two Black women ‘firsts’ to serve in their positions. The meeting allowed Harris to draw attention to strides President Hassan had made in strengthening democracy. There, Harris also announced US plans to finance exports in sectors related to digital technology, transportation, and power generation.

Harris also acknowledged the recent passing of Randall Robinson, an African American icon who, as the founder of TransAfrica, was a leading advocate in establishing ties with the Diaspora. Robinson inspired a global outcry and advocated for people of African descent worldwide. A renewed commitment to Robinson’s legacy could arguably help to augur in the new posture toward Africa.

Indeed, the Diaspora, both recent immigrants, and descendants symbolized by those enslaved at Ghana’s Cape Coast, can strengthen a new chapter of inclusion that promotes great possibility for the continent.

At December’s U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit, President Biden announced the creation of a U.S. Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement. The Council will be guided by the expertise and perspectives that emanate from the Diaspora. This group, along with others, will help interpret this reset in U.S.-Africa relations.

submissions@spokesman-recorder.com

Harris’s trip undoubtedly deepened economic and cultural ties the U.S. and Africa share, and built momentum for a deeper, mutually beneficial relationship. But beyond that, in an era where African news is often spun in negative terms, Harris’ travels were brimming with positivity and promise.

Anne Marea-Griffin is a senior fellow for National Security and International Policy at American Progress. She is an international development professional who has focused her professional life on African affairs, philanthropy, and program management.

This has delayed me being able to start a family and left me in fear of getting sick or hurt, because there is no way that my business can run without me. I don’t have a backup person that can step in and

therapist without sacrificing my business and income.

I feel so energized when connecting with Main Street Alliance and organizing “Paid Family and Medical Leave.” This option would give me the

To learn more about Minnesota’s Paid Family and Medical Leave efforts, visit the website paidleavemn.org. To get involved as a small business owner, go to bit.ly/SupportPaidFamilyLeaveMN

Cassie Sawyer is a solopreneur and small business owner of Root to Crown Healing and Wellness in Minneapolis.

Beyond thoughts and prayers

By Marian Wright Edelman

It happened again.

This time, the mass school shooting was at the Covenant School in Nashville, Tennessee. The victims were custodian Michael Hill, principal Katherine Koonce, substitute teacher Cynthia Peak, and nine-yearold third graders Evelyn Dieckhaus, William Kinney, and Hallie Scruggs.

Hallie was the daughter of the senior pastor at Covenant Presbyterian Church, the congregation where the private pre-K through sixth-grade school was located. Once again, a place of worship and elementary school that should have been sanctuaries were instead reminders that there are no safe havens from guns in our nation.

And once again, the shooter was armed with a handgun and two assault-style rifles. As Newsweek reported, “One of the weapons used appears to be a KelTec SUB2000 Carbine Rifle, a foldable semi-automatic weapon that the manufacturer describes as ‘fun to shoot.’”

The KelTec website went on: “Folded, it tucks away nicely in situations where space is limited, but it’s quick to deploy in situations where time is of the essence.”

Why does our nation continue to allow weapons of war that have no business in civilian hands to be manufactured, marketed, and mass distributed as fun-to-shoot, convenient ways of killing our children?

Soon after the shooting Rep. Andy Ogles, the Republican member of Congress who represents the Nashville community where the shooting happened, said in a statement that as a father of three he was “utterly heartbroken by

this senseless act of violence.”

But others were quick to reshare the Christmas message Rep. Ogles posted to social media in 2021 that featured a photo of him, his wife, and two of their three children smiling and holding rifles as they posed in front of a Christmas tree.

Burchett, was singled out for candidly explaining what he thought they would do next in our nation that stands alone as the only industrialized nation where gun violence is the leading cause of death for children and teenagers: “It’s a horrible, horrible situation. And we’re not gonna fix it.”

When a reporter followed up to ask Rep. Burchett if he thought there was any role Congress could play, he answered, “I don’t see any real role that we could do other than mess things up.”

When another reporter asked specifically what else could be done to protect other children like his own little girl and keep them safe at school, he replied that his child was homeschooled.

In his opening prayer in the Capitol the day after the shooting, Senate Chaplain Retired Rear Admiral Barry C. Black gave a rare, pointed, powerful plea on behalf of our nation’s leaders that stands as a prayer from all of us:

Eternal God, we stand in awe of You.

His caption read: “The very atmosphere of firearms anywhere and everywhere restrains evil influence—they deserve a place of honor with all that’s good.” And so in that family picture, guns were given their place of honor alongside the symbols of the good of Christmas.

Rep. Ogles is just one of a group of elected officials who have made a deliberate show of displaying themselves and their children in Christmas cards that glorify guns along with the birth of Christ.

Meanwhile, as many of those same officials once again offered their thoughts and prayers, another Republican Tennessee Congressman, lifetime NRA member Tim

Lord, when babies die at a church school, it is time for us to move beyond thoughts and prayers.

Remind our lawmakers of the words of the British statesman Edmund Burke: ‘All that is necessary for evil to triumph is for good people to do nothing.’

Lord, deliver our Senators from the paralysis of analysis that waits for the miraculous.

Use them to battle the demonic forces that seek to engulf us.

We pray, in Your powerful name, Amen.

It was impossible to ignore the historic significance of the first-ever member of the African Diaspora to rise to the role of U.S. vice president visiting Africa.

As a self-employed person, getting secondary coverage for disability insurance or any insurance that would cover a leave of absence is not an option for me.

Marian Wright Edelman is the founder and president emerita of the Children’s Defense Fund.

Why does our nation continue to allow weapons of war that have no business in civilian hands to be manufactured, marketed, and mass distributed as fun-to-shoot, convenient ways of killing our children?

BBS

Continued from page 6

elevating the work of Black artists in Minnesota. Ra’Shawnda

C. Scott, who participated in the show, founded Pieces of Kandakes Jewelry, a luxury jewelry brand, in 2019. Her designs are inspired by ancient history and African culture. As someone who often throws events and holds work-

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Continued from page 14

shops, Scott knew the importance of participation in the exhibit, not only for her brand but for her luxury jewelry business.

“I do realize that there is a need for more exposure for artists in Minnesota, especially for me and jewelry, just not Minnesota, just in general,” she said. “There’s a very slim lane for jewelry designers, so I’m hoping to get more exposure so that I can inspire other artists as well.

been a sport plagued by several myths about why Blacks aren’t more involved, ranging from fear of the water to swimming ruining our hair. But there’s also some truths, such as having less access to pools and swimming facilities and the cost factor, especially for those from disadvantaged areas.

But Black hair can’t be totally dismissed. “It’s more difficult than I would say for us than other people,” said Curtiss. “But most of the stereotypes are false. I love every day trying to prove those stereotypes wrong.”

Tiffany Monique Quash, a former division II swimmer, says that certain stereotypes, such as Black people can’t float, existed when she swam competitively, and sadly still exist today. “I experienced a lot of discrimination as a swimmer. That’s one of the reasons that really drove me to write the piece,” said Quash of her 2018 paper on Black swimmers’ experiences in college that was published in the “International Journal of Aquatic Re

search and Education.”

She also used that as her dissertation topic for her Ph.D., in quantitative research methodology at American University. In her spare time, she coaches swimmers in the D.C.-area. “More education and reeducation is needed,” said Quash. But despite the stereotypes, Blacks can swim.

Arizona State Senior Associate Athletic Di

rector Deana Garner-Smith pointed out, “I’ve

Denimani Livingstone was also a part of the exhibit and shared how much the day meant to him. “The fact that I was essentially nominated to represent within the building that’s for the people is a great opportunity.

“Being from Ghana, you know, there are certain things that we don’t imagine coming our way,” he said. “Me being able to show myself and speak and have a voice within this building is a very powerful thing.”

The Ghanaian and Liberian Livingstone has been designing for eight years, but believes none of it would be possible or worth doing without a sense of community.

“It’s essential,” he said. “We would just be solo on a hill if there wasn’t a community. I feel like this is a great opportunity for me to grow my personal community as well as the overall industry within Minnesota, so I’m also looking forward to more events like this

PreP

Continued from page 14

this season’s Twin Cities championship, averaging a team-high 18.3 points per game, netting a season-high of 26 points twice.

Olivia Wren, 5’10” junior guard, Minneapolis Roosevelt—Wren, an outstanding scorer and defender who reached the 1,000-point mark this season, led the Teddies to the Minneapolis City Conference and Twin Cities championship.

where I can meet more people in the community. We can grow as individuals, but also grow as a collective platform.”

Lawson believes that because the fashion and advertising industries have perpetuated a Eurocentric standard of beauty along with unrealistic body expectations, which have led to eating disorders and other mental health issues, Porte should team up with organizations to counter that as well.

Looking forward, Porte is set to expand its team and is seeking more individuals to become a part of its agency. “We’re willing to meet up with whoever we need to meet up with, talk to whoever we need to talk to, to create these opportunities for our talent because they deserve it,” Lawson said.

Abdi Mohamed welcomes reader comments at amohamed@ spokesman-recorder.com.

Photo courtesy of University of CaliforniaBerkeley Athletics Department

been working with our aquatics program, our swimming and diving teams, the women’s triathlon team, our women’s water polo team, and there’s definitely more diversity within those sports. For the past three or four years, we have had three African American swimmers on our team.”

Said Whitley, “The opportunities that this sport can give you are unparalleled.”

“The stereotypes aren’t true,” concluded Curtiss. “African Americans can swim.”

Charles Hallman welcomes reader responses to challman@spokesman-recorder.com.

Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald welcomes reader responses to mcdeezy05@gmail.com.

Scan here for passes to a free screening of “Chevalier”

the right field line, and the seating bowl ribbon boards, among others.

Additionally, in centerfield, the famed Minnie and Paul celebration sign got a technology makeover as well.

The historic characters in the Twins’ logo from the 196186 seasons—two White men shaking hands across the Mississippi River—will now have “Win! Twins” above them. The two will now also have mechanical moving arms.

A couple of years ago, MSR health columnist Dr. Charles Crutchfield, III suggested that the team should change the old logo to be more diverse. Both he and I were told that the Black doctor’s suggestions would be considered. So far, Minnie and Paul look just as White as they always have.

The Twins have struggled since the ballpark opened in

2010 to attract Black fans to home games. But, this is a baseball-wide problem, not just the local major league baseball team. However, this year’s roster features three U.S.-born Black players—outfielders Byron Buxton and Michael A. Taylor, and utility player Nick Gordon. Infielder Royce Lewis is recovering from ACL surgery and is on the 60-day injured list.

When asked if the Minnie and Paul sign somehow conflicts with the team’s ongoing commitment to attract more Black attendees to Twins games, Hodson said, “What we really want to try to do is beyond that particular marker.

It’s part of the reason we put in the public art last year. It’s part of the reason we are doing pregame activities throughout the year,” he continued.

“What we try to do with our food partners, our retail partners, our community partners is to make sure that everyone knows that Twins

baseball is for everyone.”

In addition, a new security checkpoint at each stadium gate will meet all those who come to the ballpark this season, doing away with bag restrictions that have been in place for several seasons.

“Whatever you’re carrying, you can keep that on you and walk right into the game from the street to your seat, unless you have something you shouldn’t have,” explained Peter George, Evolv CEO, before demonstrating the state-of-the-art screening system, Evolv Express.

The Twins are the first Minnesota professional team to use the Evolv system.

“We have about 30 different professional sporting stadiums around the country that are using our technology today,” including several MLB ballparks, added George.

Charles Hallman welcomes reader responses to challman@ spokesman-recorder.com.

“Big George Foreman”

Scan here for passes to a free screening of

Reece Whitley

Larry Perkins (Minneapolis North)

Olivia Wren (Minneapolis Roosevelt)

Report: Apprenticeship programs need to improve for Black workers

By Mike Moen

Labor leaders and various industries recently celebrated the 85th anniversary of a federal law that laid the groundwork for registered apprenticeship programs in the United States, including Minnesota. Apprenticeships are positions where workers can earn while they learn—meaning they can master specific skills while on the job.

But policy experts say meaningful opportunities are still hard to come by for Black workers. The Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies has issued a new report that says structural barriers still limit success for Black workers through these programs.

Volleyball

Continued from page 14

under the mandatory demand of her coach.

“If you did not go to camp then there was no need for you to try out the rest of your time in high school,” RileyBozier said.

Preston explained RileyBozier was tough but with love. Riley-Bozier’s love for Morgan State goes beyond sets, digs and nets; she was also a part of the 1986 track and field team as a Lady Bear and went on to be the first leg of the record-breaking 4x100-meter team who still hold the record of 44.47 seconds. Being on many collegiate teams also taught Riley-Bozier the importance of developing a skill set beyond the hardwood or net.

“I was not just concerned with making athletes better volleyball players,” RileyBozier said. “My biggest thing was I wanted to help them become strong women which is something I do not think I got in high school, someone who was really concerned with my well-being off the court. This even became more of my focus than teaching them how to pass the ball. I felt like this would help them believe in me, feel

The Center’s senior analyst for workforce policy, Justin Nalley, said it starts with enrollment. “Black apprentices only make up 9% of registered apprenticeship programs,” said Nalley, “but we make up 12% of the workforce.”

There are also gaps for Black workers in completing these programs, and

the ones that do are often excluded from higher-wage jobs. Nalley said data collection is an issue, with many programs not including race in their reporting.

Available data for Minnesota show that in 2021, people of color made up nearly 20% of apprentices, but the information wasn’t broken down for specific

racial groups.

In seeking program equity, Nalley said administrators should weave in support for “wrap around” services and scheduling flexibility—noting these are common barriers for Black workers wanting to advance their career through an apprenticeship.

“Can we make it to the apprenticeship program?—Trans-

portation,” said Nalley. “Do we have somebody to be able to watch [our] kids? — Child care. Are we able to provide lunch for that day?— Food services. Are we able to afford the equipment and materials that it takes?”

Last year, the U.S. Department of Labor issued grants aimed at modernizing ap-

prenticeships and boosting representation of workers of color in registered programs. Currently, roughly 600,000 apprentices are enrolled in programs across the country.

Mike Moen writes for the Minnesota News Connection. Support for this reporting was provided by Lumina Foundation.

that I care about them and work hard for me.”

This love and care have transcended into a lifetime of producing players that would turn into coaches who coached their teams the same way.

“The longer I coach, the more I become more and more like her (Riley-Bozier),”

Preston said. “One of the main things I took from her that I implement with my team is the overall focus on academics. You are here because you are a student first and athlete second.”

While Riley-Bozier roamed around Morgan State’s homecoming, a player who she had not seen in over a decade ran up to her with her arms open. As the two embraced, the former player burst into tears. The player expressed to her how the majority of the lessons Riley-Bozier tried to teach came full circle once she became a parent to children who play sports. As another one of her players, Preston was also able to use some of Riley Bozier’s wisdom to navigate her head coaching role.

Another ingredient to Riley-Bozier’s Hall of Fame recipe is the importance of knowing the true definition of team. She constantly asked each player to put their individual accolades aside and to

show for the greater good.

“I would sit a starter if she was having issues with another player on the team and you could begin to see that on the court,” Riley-Bozier said. “The starter needs to make those adjustments. If they did not make those adjustments, then they were just going to sit until we figured it out.”

This willingness to force players to put the team first and Riley-Bozier’s own dedication to team greatness is what has positioned her perfectly into her induction. Even with all the accolades to prove it, the call to deliver the Hall of Fame news still took the decorated coach by surprise.

Although Riley-Bozier’s days of coaching have come to an end, due to her nature to go over the moon for Morgan State, a position was created to keep her around. Riley-Bozier is now the Assistant Director for Intramurals and Wellness.

“I do not really like to use the word ‘retired,’” RileyBozier said. “It is not a word that I have ever said. I am no longer just coaching volleyball at Morgan State. Because I have always run a clean program, I have always shown Morgan as first.”

This article is republished courtesy of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference.

Courtesy of MNC

April Sister Spokesman focused on caregivers

Spring Concerts

AFKHAM CONDUCTS LA MER

SAT APR 15 8PM

Tracey Williams-Dillard, Sister Spokesman founder and host

The panel discussion covered topics ranging from finding culturally inclusive care, how to advocate for your loved ones with medical providers, and options for both older adults, as well as those with physical or mental disabilities. The live-streamed event can be found on Sister Spokesman’s Facebook page.

The remainder of the event included networking, games, and prizes, as well as a delicious lunch that was served.

Sister Spokesman’s next event will be “Celebrating Outstanding Moms,” on Saturday, May 6, from 12-3 p.m., at the Royal Foundry Craft Spirits, 241 Van White Memorial Highway, Minneapolis, MN.

Photos by Chris Juhn

David Afkham, conductor Emily Magee, soprano Minnesota Orchestra musicians will create a kaleidoscope of swirling sound in Claude Debussy’s classic portrait of the sea, La Mer. Richard Wagner’s Wesendonck Lieder is a set of five musical love letters, sung here by soprano Emily Magee, followed by Lili Boulanger’s introspective and melancholic Of a Sad Evening

BREA(D)TH

THU MAY 18 11AM

FRI MAY 19 8PM

SAT MAY 20 8PM

Jonathan Taylor Rush, conductor

Marc Bamuthi Joseph, librettist and soloist Steven Campbell, tuba Minnesota Chorale

29:11 International Exchange

Twin Cities Choral Partners

In a new work commissioned in the wake of George Floyd’s murder, composer Carlos Simon and librettist Marc Bamuthi Joseph tell a uniquely American story. As Simon and Joseph write: “ brea(d)th is a classical work, inspired by the enduring presence of George Floyd the Ancestor, asking America to consider an equitable future.” Rooted in the Minneapolis community, brea(dth considers the nation’s history, promise and possibilities. The concerts also include a performance of Wynton Marsalis’ Tuba Concerto.

GINASTERA, KODÁLY AND TCHAIKOVSKY

FRI JUN 9 8PM

Miguel Harth-Bedoya, conductor

Grace Roepke, harp

Miguel Harth Bedoya takes the podium, conducting Kodály’s Hungarian folk tune-inspired Concerto for Orchestra as well as the much-loved Dances of Galánta. You’ll also see Tchaikovsky’s brilliant Capriccio italien, and Ginastera’s Harp Concerto in a special performance by Chanhassen native Grace Roepke, winner of the FRIENDS of the Minnesota Orchestra Young Artist Competition.

JUNETEENTH: CELEBRATION OF FREEDOM

FRI JUN 23 8PM

André Raphel, conductor

Jevetta Steele, vocals

Alan C. Page, narrator

Malcolm-Jamal Warner, poet/actor

A program in honor of Juneteenth, the holiday commemorating the emancipation of the last African Americans still enslaved in Texas. The concert includes two works that will be heard at Orchestra Hall for the first time: Adolphus Hailstork’s jubilant Three Spirituals and Duke Ellington’s lively Harlem Talented and esteemed guests lend their voices to this evening of celebration and remembrance.

RUSH SIMON JOSEPH 612-371-5656 | minnesotaorchestra.org | Orchestra Hall

Fartun Weli, founder and director of Peace of Mind Care Center, which sponsored the event

(l-r)Maria Thomas, Tracey Williams-Dillard, Monisha Richard, and Fartun Weli

Sister Spokesman held its “Resource Fair for Caregivers,” event on Saturday, April 1, from 12-3 p.m. Although heavy snow the night before created power outages and slowed traffic throughout the Twin Cities metro area, Sister Spokesman believes the show must go on, and held a bright and informative event for those in attendance at LifeSource, located at 2225 West River Rd. N in Minneapolis.

April’s panel included caregiving experts Fartun Weli, the founder and director of the Peace of Mind Care Center, Maria Thomas, who has a master of social work, and is with Volunteers of America’s Culturally Responsive Caregiver Support and Dementia Services, and Monisha Richard, a community health worker and advocate, whose company The LinC Consulting educates community members about health and wellness and provides them with tools to advocate for themselves and their loved ones.

Bulletin

Employment & Legals

Business Administration, mortgagee, and filed in the office of the County Recorder in Hennepin County, Minnesota, as follows: Dated Date Filed Document No. December 30, 2022 December 30, 2022 T-5993078 Further, it is the intention of the above-named Petitioner to move the court for an order transferring title and possession of the parcels herein described, prior to the filing of an award by the court appointed commissioners, pursuant to Minn. Stat. §117.042. The Petitioner reserves its right to recover costs of clean up and testing and all other damages arising from the presence of pollutants, contaminants, or hazardous materials on the property described herein, from all potential responsible parties, including respondents herein where appropriate, in a separate legal action to the extent permitted by law. III.

That the following described lands in these proceedings taken are situated in Hennepin County, Minnesota; that the names of all persons appearing of record or known to your Petitioner to be the owners of said lands or interested therein, including all whom your Petitioner has been able by investigation and inquiry to discover, together with the nature of the ownership of each, as nearly as can be ascertained, are as follows:

FEE ACQUISITION Parcel 231A C.S. 2785 (494=393)

Employment & Legals

summons located at: 2700 Snelling Ave N, Suite 460, Roseville, MN 55113.

3. YOU MUST RESPOND TO EACH CLAIM. The Answer is your written response to the Plaintiff’s Complaint. In your Answer you must state whether you agree or disagree with each paragraph of the Complaint. If you believe the Plaintiff should not be given everything asked for in the Complaint, you must say so in your Answer.

4. YOU WILL LOSE YOUR CASE IF YOU DO NOT SEND A WRITTEN RESPONSE TO THE COMPLAINT TO THE PERSON WHO SIGNED THIS SUMMONS.

Please

The

Bilingual Spanish Legal Assistants

Wilson Law Group LLC seeks Bilingual Spanish Legal Assistants in Mpls MN to assist attys in prep of legal filings, inc. interview clients, draft forms, prep exh, and mtns, gather docs and comm w/ clients. Bachelor’s deg in Poli Sci, Law, or other rel soc sci. or related req’d. Foreign equiv ok. Mail app to Jessica Westendorp 3019 Minnehaha Ave, Minneapolis MN 55406 or email jwestendorp@wilsonlg.com

From Classified Department/MN Spokesman-Recorder PHONE: 612-827-4021

FOR BILLING INQUIRIES & TEARSHEETS

Please contact Accounting Dept @billing@spokesman-recorder.com

RAMSEY COUNTY LEGAL NOTICES FLAT RATE: $100

Please proof, respond with email confirmation to ads@spokesman-recorder.com

The MSR handles billing digitally. This means you will get e-tears and e-mailed invoices unless you specifically request a hard copy.

From Classified Department/MN Spokesman-Recorder

PHONE: 612-827-4021

FOR BILLING INQUIRIES & TEARSHEETS PLEASE CONTACT ACCOUNTING DEPT BILLING@SPOKESMAN-RECORDER.

EMPLOYMENT DISPLAY

SIZE: 2 COL X 2 INCH

RATE $44.60 PER COL. INCH

Please proof, respond with email confirmation to dis play@spokesman-recorder.com. For more exposure: We are also inviting our clients to advertise on our web site for 2 weeks for a flat fee of $150 per position with purchase of print ad.

The MSR handles billing digitally.

This means you will get e-tears and e-mailed invoices unless you specifically request a hard copy.

Blacks can swim

round 300 male swimmers and divers competed at this year’s NCAA championships at the University of Minnesota’s Jean K. Freeman Aquatic Center, from March 22–25. However, during the four-day competition, the eye check found only a few Black swimmers there. Two of them who spoke to the MSR said they weren’t surprised.

According to the NCAA, there were 259 Black males and 201 Black female swimmers in total in all three college divisions in 2022.

“I’m not gonna sugarcoat it,” admitted Cal graduate student Reece Whitley. “It is predominately White and has been since I’ve been a part of it.”

North Carolina State sophomore David Curtiss added, “I think we need to improve, bring the African American

community and Black people into the sport of swimming.”

Anthony Nesty is one of four Black men’s head swimming coaches. “I was good at swimming, but I wanted to give

coaching a shot,” said the fifthyear Florida men’s swimming coach. This is his second season as Florida’s women’s head coach. His men’s team finished third in the 2022 NCAAs and finished sixth this year.

Nesty also is the first Black coach to lead a U.S. team to the World Championships (2022). “I felt that I could inspire kids, help kids reach their potential, so I decided to

Outstanding players in Minneapolis and St. Paul

he 2023 high school basketball season was one to remember, particularly in the St. Paul City and Minneapolis City Conference.

First-year boys’ basketball coach Ricky Davis led Minneapolis North to the City Conference and the Twin Cities championship. Minneapolis’ Roosevelt girls’ basketball coach Tyesha Wright accomplished the same feat for the Teddies.

In St. Paul, Olonda England led the Como Park girls to the city championship. Colin Moore coached Johnson to the conference crown as well. Here are four players that caught the eye of this columnist during the season. Each would have gotten this columnist’s vote for City Conference Player of the Year.

PJ

Jr. (St. Paul Central)

All photos by Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald Shania Nichols VanNett (St. Paul Como Park)

PJ Blakey Jr., 6’2” guard, St. Paul Central—Blakey, an outstanding shooter and defender, was one of the conference’s most consistent players averaging 15.1 points per game—with a season-high of 21—leading the Minutemen to a St. Paul City Conference second-place finish.

Shania Nichols VanNett, 5’6” senior guard, St. Paul Como Park—VanNett, an out-

coach,” he noted. The Suriname native, Olympic gold-medalist, and 1994 Florida grad won three consecutive NCAA individual swimming titles in the 100-meter fly (1990-92) and held the school’s NCAA record for titles until 2006.

Whitley, a multi-time AllAmerican in the 100 and 200-meter breaststroke, and 200 and 400-meter medley relay, started swimming at a young age. “I wanted to be in water from a very young age. I failed the deep-water test at summer

camp, and I failed it two more times after that,” he recalled. “I asked my mom to give me some

lessons and she was gracious enough to enroll me.”

Curtiss, who said he has been swimming for over 12 years, is a two-time All-American in the 50-meter freestyle and 200-meter medley relay, a three-time USA Swimming National Team member and the American high school record holder in the 50-yard freestyle. This year’s NCAAs was his second consecutive appearance. “Last year I was definitely a lot more scared and nervous. But this year, I definitely feel like I’m supposed to be here.” Swimming has historically

Twins new scoreboards

he 10-year-old plus Minnesota Twins ballpark located on the ‘border’ of Minneapolis downtown’s North Loop and North Minneapolis will open Thursday, April 10, for the team’s 2023 home opener. Fans will see new electronic doodads around the park as they enter the gates through a newly installed security system.

Over the last couple of years, the Twins have spent nearly $30 million on stadium improvements including what team officials christened

Twins new Scoreboard 2.0 and Minnie and Paul sign.

“Scoreboard 2.0,” which replaced the old scoreboard with a brand new one. The team’s president and

standing shooter, averaged 19.6 points per game in leading the Cougars to its familiar spot atop the St. Paul City Conference.

Larry Perkins, 6’3” junior guard, Minneapolis North— Perkins, an instant-scorer and leader, led the Polars to their tenth consecutive Minneapolis City Conference title and

■ See Prep on page 9

By Alexis Davis

Content courtesy of the MEAC

he Ramona Riley-Bozier era of Morgan State volleyball almost did not exist. But the hundreds of young women who have put on their knee pads in Talmadge Hill Field House are beyond grateful to live through the historic time.

“To know her is to love her,” University of New Orleans head volleyball coach and former Morgan State assistant coach and player Ashley Preston said. “(Riley-Bozier) has a big heart and she will help any and all of us if she can. She loves Morgan State. She loves coaching and I just appreciate that our relationship has grown from player to coach to colleague and now to friend. It’s not too often where people are able to build a relationship like that with their coach.”

Being a MEAC Hall of Fame volleyball coach was not at the top of Riley-Bozier’s to-do list when looking at what her professional life had in store for her.

Her track coach and athletic director at Morgan State, Leonard C. Braxton, called Riley-Bozier and explained the volleyball program was in need of a coach.

“He said they needed a coach right away just to get through the season,” RileyBozier said. “I had just turned

24 and I got the call in the month of July asking me if I would come to do it. I actually told him no a couple of times. I told him I was not interested in coaching someone else’s kids. I remember this so clearly.”

Riley-Bozier was initially skeptical because she did not

have any experience coaching. MEAC Hall of Fame inductee Braxton (2002) reminded Riley-Bozier she was the captain.

“He told me to just go out there and be a leader,” the winningest coach at Morgan State said. “I told him I would do it that year to get them through and give them time to bring someone else in and that never happened, as you can see 34 years later.”

After only five years of being the head coach of Morgan State volleyball, Riley-Bozier brought home her first MEAC title. She would go on to repeat that three more times.

One of Riley-Bozier’s tactics to being an outstanding coach was analyzing the skill level of her players and meeting them where they were to produce better quality results.

“Her level of communication when going through a drill or skill really helped to meet players where they were at,” Preston said. “I think her prior experiences with communication styles that differed also helped out.”

This method translated into her players earning a spot in the NCAA Division I Tournament in 1997, making the team the first Historically Black College or University (HBCU) to get a chance at the big tournament.

Riley-Bozier admits one of the main dilemmas she faced

CEO, Dave St. Peter, and Matt Hodson, the business communications director, both bragged about the state-ofthe-art equipment as they unveiled the new video boards to reporters on March 28.

“The goal of Scoreboard 2.0 is to enhance the fan experience by providing more entertainment,” declared St. Peter of the new high-definition display for the main video board in left field, the auxiliary board in right field, the “Twins Tower” down

Photo courtesy of Minnesota Twins ■ See SOE on page 9

Morgan State Volleyball: The Ramona Riley-Bozier story

Preston faced a similar obstacle during her first year of coaching. Riley-Bozier’s former prized libero and outside hitter struggled with how to deal with players occasionally letting her down. But Riley Bozier had the perfect words for the young coach.

“I asked her what should I do to get over a player disappointing me,” Preston said. “Coach told me to think about it the same way a parent gets over their child disappointing them and that always stuck with me. If they disappoint me, I have to let it go, because I still have to love them.”

during her first few years as a coach was coaching young women who were also her former teammates and getting them to see her in an authoritative light. To complete this task, she relied on her volleyball fundamentals from high school.

Morgan State’s beloved coach’s love for volleyball sprouted in a small gym class at New Mark Middle School in Kansas City, Mo. With a little encouragement from her gym teacher, she decided to take it seriously and try out for varsity once she was a student at Oak Park High School.

Riley-Bozier earned a place on the varsity roster and got the next-level training she needed by attending volleyball camps

“I’m not gonna sugarcoat it. It is predominately White and has been since I’ve been a part of it.”

■ See View on page 9

Anthony Nesty

Photo courtesy of UAA Communications

David Curtiss

Photo courtesy of North Carolina State Athletics Department

Reece Whitley

Photo courtesy of University of California-Berkeley Athletics Department

Blakey

“My biggest thing was I wanted to help them become strong women which is something I do not think I got in high school, someone who was really concerned with my well-being off the court.”

Ramona Riley-Bozier Photo courtesy of Morgan State University