December 9, 2021 - MN Spokesman-Recorder

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Inside this Edition...

THE VOICE OF BLACK MINNESOTA SINCE 1934

December 9–15, 2021

Vol. 88

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No. 19

p o t te r Tr i a l b e gi n s Only one Black juror to sit on controversial Potter case

By Mel Reeves Community Editor

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ou can’t remove race from this,” said anti-police violence activist Toussaint Morrison of the Kimberly Potter trial. “It seemingly tips it in the favor of the defense.” Only one Black juror, a mother and teacher, was chosen for the jury panel that will decide the fate of former

Brooklyn Center police officer Potter, who shot and killed Daunte Wright on April 11 of this year. Potter told authorities that she meant to shoot Wright with her taser and not her service revolver. She is on trial for first-degree and seconddegree manslaughter. “In less than two minutes her chief was able to put out propaganda that said she didn’t know her left from her right,” said Morrison while shak-

ing his head. “She had been on the force longer than Daunte had been alive. It comes off as intentional, or at the least it’s definitely manslaughter.” The trial marks the second time in a year that all eyes will be on the Twin Cities as the U.S. justice system and the system of policing are again in the spotlight. And again there is palpable pessimism on the part of many in the community. “I am going to hope for the best

and prepare for the worst,” said Amity Dimock, whose son Kobe DimockHeisler was killed August 31, 2019 by Brooklyn Center police. According to Dimmock, former officer Potter was the first ranking officer on the scene, and she told the officers to turn off their body cameras, for which she was later reprimanded. “I never have confidence in the system,” said Dimock. “I have concerns about the demographic of the jury,

MN launches nation’s first task force on missing Black women

MGN By Paige Elliott Digital Editor

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innesota has become the first state in the nation to launch a panel addressing the disproportionately high number of missing and murdered Black women and girls. On Nov. 29, Gov. Walz and Lt. Governor Flanagan,

flanked by victim advocates, lawmakers, and public safety officials, including Rep. Ruth Richardson (DFL-Mendota Heights) and Department of Public Safety Commissioner John Harrington, held a ceremonial bill signing at the Capri Theater in Minneapolis to launch the nation’s first Missing and Murdered African American Women Task Force.

The 12-member task force, established with bipartisan support in the legislature’s 2021 Public Safety and Judiciary Omnibus Bill, will report recommendations back to the legislature in an effort to end violence against African American women and girls in Minnesota. The panel consists of victim advocates, law enforcement representatives, and court officials who

met for the first time at the signing. “We know African American women and girls are disproportionately subject to violent crime,” Gov. Walz said. “That’s why we took action and established a first-in-the-nation Missing and Murdered African American Women task force.” In 2020, almost 34% of the missing women in the U.S.

were Black, according to the National Crime Information Center of the FBI, while Black women comprise just 13% of the female population. “We are seeing African American women killed in numbers we’ve never seen before,” Commissioner Harrington said at Monday’s press conference. “Despite the small number of African Americans in Minnesota, 30% of the victims in domestic violence settings are African American women.” A recent Violence Free Minnesota’s (VFM) report found disproportionate numbers of Black and Native domestic violence homicide victims compared to statewide demographics. “In 2020, 40% of domestic violence homicide victims were Black, while comprising less than 7% of Minnesota’s population. “Four women were pregnant at the time they were killed by a current or former intimate partner, and three of them were Black,” read the VFM report. “These violent disparities are attributed to histories of colonization, chattel slavery, genocide, generational trauma, and ongoing systematic oppression.” ■See MISSING on page 5

African nations punished for warning the world of omicron virus Travel bans called unfair, ineffective by many health experts

By Niara Savage Contributing Writer Some infectious disease experts critical of the United States’ travel bans on African countries say the measure intended to curb the spread of the omicron variant of the coronavirus is ineffective and reveals an anti-African bias. “Scientists in Southern African nations revealed the presence of the omicron COVID-19 variant, but the good deed was punished with worldwide travel bans,” read a statement that appeared on the World Health Organizations (WHO) website November 28. “The World Health Organization (WHO) makes clear that the rationale for the ban is of dubious benefit and needlessly harms the targeted nations.

the variant is already here, because we are seeing community transmission in the U.S.,” said Dr. Priya Sampathkumar, an infectious disease specialist with the Mayo Clinic. South African scientists first detected omicron late last month and reported the variant to the World Health Organization on Nov. 24. By Nov. 26, the WHO publicly identified omicron as a “variant of Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Dr. Cameron Webb Dr. Priay Sampathkumar WHO photo Photo courtesy of Dr. Cameron Webb Photo courtesy of Mayo Clinic concern,” saying it appeared to display a “big jump in evolution” compared to previous versions of the virus. Dutch health authorities announced last week that they found the new omicron variant of the coronavirus in “The role of rich nations in cans who are now the target peared when Africa became cases dating back earlier last month, indicating that it was hoarding vaccines and the of blame,” the WHO state- the focus of attention.” “While we were busy ban- already spreading in western continued patents on vac- ment continued. “Pledges ■See OMICRON on page 5 cines increase harm for Afri- to ‘follow the science’ disap- ning travel from South Africa,

“I think this actually sets back public health.”

and it’s not close to Brooklyn Center’s demographic.” Recent data shows Blacks or African Americans make up 29% of the city’s population. “I’m kind of afraid there are some jurors who believe police can do no wrong,” Dimock said. “I am afraid that some people have not revealed their hand so they could get on the jury.” Jury selection for the trial went rather quickly and was uneventful as ■ See POTTER on page 5

St. Paul School Board votes to close, merge schools Painful cuts forced by ‘current enrollment reality’ By Feven Gerezgiher Contributing Writer The St. Paul School Board voted 5-2 on Dec. 1 to approve a revised version of Envision SPPS, a series of school closures and mergers intended to address declining enrollment and to provide a “well-rounded education” district-wide. The move will close five schools at the end of the 2021-22 school year and one the next year. Envision SPPS impacts 2,165 students, 6% of the district’s enrollment, with a higher rate of Black students being impacted than the district average. Many parents in attendance for the vote declined to comment to

Joe Gothard, St. Paul Schools Superintendent MSR file photo the MSR, citing overwhelming feelings of exhaustion and disappointment. The decision follows weeks of emotional testimony by St. Paul families and educators that packed public hearings in opposition to the proposal. “I know that no matter what the data say, closing a school is traumatic for students, families and staff,” wrote St. Paul Superintendent Joe Gothard in a release. “Closing schools is the last thing that I, members of my leadership team, or board members want to do. But when our current enrollment reality is negatively impacting our ability to provide every student with the education and services they need and deserve, something has to change.” At the meeting, board members expressed how difficult the decision was to make. Board Member Jim Vue sought and failed to pass a motion delaying closures another year. “It doesn’t end here. You have been heard,” said Board Member Janelle Foster, speaking to families about the many concerns expressed ■See SCHOOLS on page 5

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December 9-15, 2021

Opinion Biden admin pledges to ‘shop small in a very big way’ Tens of billions earmarked for ‘small disadvantaged businesses’ By Isabella Casillas Guzman

Cops and their vigilante allies have deep roots in slavery Rittenhouse and Arbery show how this ‘special relationship’ continues By Richard Moser In late November, Jackie Johnson, the district attorney in the Arbery murder case, was arrested and charged with obstruction of justice for showing “favor and affection” toward the murderers. No wonder it took over 70 days for the killers to be arrested. No wonder it took a public campaign to even bring the case to trial. Sure, the guilty verdict against the three murderers gives us some basic accountability but justice? Not yet. For justice, we need to expose and abolish the policevigilante alliance. According to detailed coverage in the Atlanta JournalConstitution, a pattern of immunity for police-involved killings had already been established. The murderers saw themselves as patrolling their neighborhood in lieu of regular police. And, they enjoyed a special relationship with authorities which the charges against Johnson accurately describe as “favor and affection.” In fact, Johnson had previously worked with ex-cop Greg McMichael. It was a classic cop-vigilante alliance. Johnson was released on her “own recognizance.” She did not have to pay the bail so routinely used to control Black, Brown, and working-class suspects. The waiver of bail implies that Johnson is no threat to public safety. But this the second time

she was on the wrong side of a police shooting. In 2010 Caroline Small, an unarmed Black woman, was killed by police. Johnson intervened, clearing the police of any wrongdoing. The claims of misconduct—possibly criminal—against her in Small’s death were raised by former Glynn County prosecutors. Johnson will be tried for the crime of telling police officers that no crime had occurred and instructing them to lay off the shooters. George E. Barnhill, her friendly neighboring DA, also concluded that no crime had been committed. In an official letter, Barnhill wrote, “We do not see grounds for the arrest of any of the three parties.” Is this a criminal conspiracy or just the default mode of a racist, classist penal system? Greg McMichael, the former cop now a convicted murderer, and his son the convicted shooter would not have been so willing to be cop, judge, jury and executioner had they not been accustomed to the protections and immunities usually granted to police and their allies. Kevin Mathewson, a former Kenosha politician and self-styled “commander” of the “Kenosha Guard,” circulated a call to action on Facebook recruiting would-be vigilantes to oppose the protesters. Did the police counteract the command from a militia leader? No, but the police did use “rubber” bullets,

tear gas, flash-bang grenades and armored vehicles to drive protestors into the hands of the vigilantes—including their most famous pawn, Rittenhouse. “Kettling” has become a common police tactic. The cops showed “favor and affection” to the vigilantes (as is consistent with the historical pattern) so they could wash their hands of the violence and let their allies take the heat. But in truth, the cops did everything but pull the trigger themselves. Missing the forest for the trees While many journalists were obsessed with the details of the case, they were all but silent about the much bigger story that unfolded in Kenosha, in Minneapolis, in Portland, and in other cities. The story of police and their vigilante allies has everything to do with how the ruling class rules. White Supremacy is more than bad attitudes or who shot who—its most powerful forms are systematic and routine. What the left media should have said is that the legal system is broken. We have a penal system for Black, Brown, and working-class people and a justice system to protect the chosen few. The left-leaning defense of the Rittenhouse verdict claimed their stand was principled. But, self-defense, right to a trial of your peers, due process: These are only actual legal principles in a system where everyone—rich and poor, Black and White, powerful and powerless— have equal protection under the law. That is clearly not the case. Why is the cop-vigilante connection far more important than the verdict in any one case? Individual trials are episodes that set an uncertain legal precedent while the cop-vigilante alliance is a structural feature of policing with deep historical roots reaching back to slavery. It is also evidence of a tyrannical police state that extends from the front-line police to the 18 secret police forces we euphemistically call “the intelligence community.” These forces—top to bottom—are hostile to our human and political rights and part of the reason the old Constitution is dead as a doornail. We abandoned the rule of law long ago, and we will not recover it easily. Richard Moser writes at befreedom.com.

At the centennial of the Tulsa Race Massacre in June, President Biden laid out his vision to open more doors to federal contracting with an ambitious goal: Increase the share going to small, disadvantaged businesses by 50% by 2025.

Small businesses create two-thirds of net new jobs and generate more than 40% of our economic output. With their creativity and grit, they define our neighborhoods and build thriving communities in every corner of our nation. At the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), we’re working to nurture their economic potential to deliver an equitable and sustainable economic recovery. Under the leadership of President Joe Biden, we’ve partnered across the federal government to take “shopping small” to a whole new level by transforming how the U.S. government—the world’s largest buyer—spends billions of America’s tax dollars on goods and services each year. An equitable federal procurement strategy that prioritizes small, disadvantaged businesses will help level the playing field and rebuild our economy from the bottom up and the middle out.

that half of all small businesseligible contracts went to businesses in just 35 congressional districts in the final year of the previous administration. We must do better. Buying from small, disadvantaged businesses will

Achieving President Biden’s new contracting goal will be a giant leap forward and make a big difference for many small businesses. In FY 2020, 1.9% of federal contracts went to Black-owned firms while 2.1% went to Latino-owned firms and 3.2% went to AAPI-owned firms, even though they represent 9.9%, 12.8% and 8.1% of all small businesses, respectively. And SBA’s analysis found

leverage the federal government’s purchasing power to reestablish domestic supply chains and Made in America products—using market growth opportunities to strengthen our nation’s industrial base.

■ See Pledge on page 9

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

A big job awaits the next Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty is prepared to tackle it As a rookie lawyer working in Hennepin County, I learned an important lesson my first day on the job. From my very first criminal case, I saw the power county attorneys have in our criminal justice system. It is county attorneys who recommend bail; it is county attorneys who decide whether a person should face criminal charges and what those charges should be; and it is county attorneys who control the plea deal process, where most cases are resolved. Until very recently, prosecutors across the nation have largely used that power to simply uphold the status quo. They cynically claim to be “tough on crime,” but instead they feed a system that often makes crime worse, fails to protect our neighborhoods, and perpetuates racial disparities. Prosecutors are best positioned to lead on meaningful reform, but too often they have failed to use their power to fix a broken system. Thankfully, the county attorney is one of the only key players in the justice system directly accountable to the people, with competitive elections held every four years. Through this one election, voters have the power to change the direction of our justice system. In Hennepin County, we will be voting for a new county attorney in November 2022. After I made the decision in September to run for reelection [as a state legislator] and not to seek the position of county attorney, many have since asked who I will endorse. Here is my answer: The next Hennepin County Attorney has a monumental task in front of them. And it won’t be easy. Mary Moriarty is the clear choice to be our next Hennepin County Attorney. Everyone deserves to feel—

and be—safe. That’s as true on the North Side of Minneapolis as it is in New Hope and Rogers. Unfortunately today, that is too often not the case. The next county attorney will need to answer urgent calls for reform, help build trust between law enforcement and the community, and respond to the nationwide increase in violent crime that is impacting both suburban and urban parts of Hennepin County. This will be a big job. But Mary Moriarty is up for the challenge. Mary understands that most people who go to prison eventually get out and come back home to our communities. That’s why it is not enough to be “tough” on crime. Tough isn’t enough. People who commit serious crimes must be held accountable, but we deserve a more thoughtful, effective approach that will help rebuild our communities. Mary gets that. And she will bring a comprehensive approach to addressing violence in our communities that will help keep us safe. My professional experience working closely with Mary in the Hennepin County Public Defender’s office early in my career has given me insight into her integrity, character, and ability to lead. During her time as chief, Mary managed a staff of 140 attorneys and over 70 support staff including investigators, dispositional advisors, paralegals, IT personnel, legal office assistants, and law clerks. An independent evaluation from the National Center for State Courts stated that under Mary’s leadership as chief, Hennepin County had one of the most highly regarded public law offices in the country.

The Hennepin County Attorney leads the largest public law office in the state, with over 460 employees handling tens of thousands of adult felony, juvenile, and civil cases each year. Mary’s management experience makes her uniquely qualified to manage this large and vitally important office. My personal experience with Mary for almost two decades has shown me that she is exceptionally intelligent, empathetic, approachable, innovative, and extremely hardworking. Mary has a good heart and thick skin. I trust Mary to make tough decisions and be transparent about how and why she made them. Mary is not a politician. She is not interested in using the position of county attorney as a platform for higher office. This is the only office she is running for. She will focus on the safety of Hennepin County residents and not any future political ambitions. We are fortunate to have many great candidates in the race. They are good people and qualified lawyers in their specific practice areas. But when it comes to courtroom experience, public safety, and managing a large public law office, Mary’s resume and track record speaks for itself. We need a county attorney who has the expertise and vision to meet this critical moment in our county, state and country. Mary Moriarty is that leader. Cedrick Frazier is the Minnesota State Representative for district 45A, which includes the cities of New Hope, Crystal and Plymouth. Frazier also serves as vice-chair of the Minnesota House Public Safety and Criminal Justice Reform Finance and Policy ommittee.

Health & Wellness

December 9-15, 2021

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Knowing and controlling your risk factors for heart disease a blood vessel can cause the symptoms of coronary artery disease, and a complete blockage can cause a heart attack.

By Mosi Bennett MD, PhD Guest Contributor Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Heart disease develops at a younger age in African Americans, and mortality from heart disease is higher in African Americans than in White Americans. Coronary artery disease is the most common type of heart disease. Coronary artery disease occurs when the main blood vessels to the heart become blocked or damaged. When the blood vessels to the heart are blocked, the heart is not able to receive enough oxygenrich blood in order to pump effectively. Blockages in the blood vessels are caused by the progressive buildup of plaque over years, or by inflammation and clot formation that can occur suddenly. A partial blockage in

Symptoms The most common symptoms of coronary artery disease are chest discomfort and shortness of breath. This chest discomfort is often described as a pressure, or squeezing, in the center of the chest. Often, the chest discomfort associated with coronary artery disease is brought on by exertion or activity, and is relieved by rest. Chest discomfort can radiate to the arm, neck or jaw, and can be associated with shortness of breath, sweating and nausea. In women, symptoms of coronary artery disease can be slightly different and can include discomfort or pain in the shoulders, indigestion or heartburn. A heart attack can occur when the blood flow through an artery is suddenly and completely blocked. The blockage is often due to a clot in a blood vessel. The symptoms of a heart attack are similar to the symptoms of coronary artery disease, but are usually more severe, and last longer than a few minutes. An untreated heart attack can cause permanent damage to the heart muscle and can be life threatening. If you think you are having symptoms of a heart attack, it is very important to seek immediate help and call 911.

Risk factors The risk factors for coronary artery disease include high blood pressure, cigarette smoking, diabetes, lack of exercise, obesity, high cholesterol, and having a family history of heart disease. Risk factors for heart disease are more common and often poorly controlled among African Americans. The disparities in heart disease outcomes are due to many factors including differences in access to health care or health insurance, as well as differences in access to healthy foods, safe neighborhoods, nutritious food, and exercise options. Coronary artery disease often develops over decades. Therefore, you might not notice a problem until you have a significant blockage. Diagnosis and treatment Based on symptoms and risk factors, your doctor may suspect coronary artery disease and then order additional tests to make a diagnosis. • An electrocardiogram (ECG) can measure the electrical activity in your heart. • A stress test may involve walking on a treadmill and images of your heart in order to determine if your heart receives enough blood with physical activity. • An echocardiogram is a heart ultrasound that allows your doctor to observe the structure and pumping function of the chambers of the heart.

Make your health a priority.

• A cardiac catheterization is a procedure where a tube is moved through blood vessels up to your heart and a special dye and Xray are used to create detailed pictures of the coronary arteries. Blockages can be fixed or opened up with balloons and stents during a cardiac catheterization. • Severe coronary artery disease can be treated with coronary bypass graft surgery, where a surgeon uses other blood vessels from your chest, leg or arm to create new pathways to deliver blood to the heart. Prevention You can take simple yet powerful steps to prevent coronary artery disease by

knowing and controlling your risk factors. Coronary artery disease can be treated with lifestyle changes. Blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar can be controlled with diet and exercise. Aim to eat a heart-healthy diet of lean proteins, fruits, vegetables and whole grains while avoiding processed foods and sugars. Increase physical activity to 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week. Try to maintain a healthy weight and avoid tobacco. Medicines can be used to prevent and treat coronary artery disease by lowering blood pressure, reducing cholesterol, and preventing blood clots. Heart-healthy lifestyle choices

can improve your overall health and reduce the risk of getting coronary artery disease. Make your health a priority. It is never too late to start. Mosi Bennett, MD, PhD is a board-certified heart failure and transplant cardiologist with the Minneapolis Heart Institute at Abbott Northwestern Hospital. He completed his undergraduate work at the University of Pennsylvania. He went on to attend medical school and graduate school at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, Maryland. He completed his Internal Medicine residency at Johns Hopkins Hospital, and then cardiovascular disease and heart failure fellowships at the Cleveland Clinic.

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December 9-15, 2021

Business Protecting yourself from fraud

These steps can help protect your money and your information. How a simple email or text message could open you up to fraud.

starting to contact victims by text message or phone, most often from a number you don’t recognize, and telling you there’s a problem with your bank account, including Sponsored by that it’s closed, frozen, or will be terminated unless you call a phone number or go to a website listed in the message financial future. These steps can help and give your personal and/or protect your money and your account information. FAQ: What should coninformation. How a simple FAQ: Are there specific sumers be looking for when email or text message could signs to look for? it comes to scammers? open you up to fraud. HODAN: Yes, here are a Sponsored by INSERT [JP couple of surefire ones: HODAN: Let’s start with Morgan logo] • Scammers will often The pandemic has acceler- emails and texts. Phishing is tell you there is a problem the fancy name for emails ated identity theft—and the or a prize. They might say pretending to be from repuimpact on regular people is you are in trouble with the significant. In fact, Americans table companies—including government, you owe money, banks. They’re really from have lost more than $382 someone in your family has criminals who are trying to million to scams related to get your personal information, an emergency, there is a stimulus checks and unsuch as passwords and credit problem with an account of employment benefits, fake yours, or that you won lotcard numbers. treatments for COVID-19, tery money. Remember—if it The email could ask you and more, according to the sounds too good to be true, it to reply or click on a link that Federal Trade Commission. probably is. takes you to a website that Even worse, Black and • After setting up the problooks like your bank’s site. Latinx consumers are more lem or prize, scammers will Then they’ll ask you to give likely to be victims of fraud pressure you to act immedithan their White counterparts. your username, password, ately. They want you to hand That’s why it’s crucial to recog- account number, personal over your sensitive informaidentification number (PIN), nize activity designed to steal tion before you have time to Social Security number, or your hard-earned money. think. They might threaten other personal information. JPMorgan Chase is available to help consumers learn Also, if you click on an attach- you, stress a sense of urgency, or say time is running out. ment to that email, it could to spot suspicious activity— However, no legitimate busidownload software called from fake emails and texts ness or government agency malware that tracks or steals to bogus claims about ways will pressure you in this way your information. to stay healthy. We sat or ask for your personal So, be very careful about down with Hodan Ahmed, information, like your Social clicking on a link in an email; local branch manager from Security number, bank acinstead, go directly to the the Chase branch on E. company’s website. And don’t count or credit card numbers Franklin in Ventura Village, over the phone or email. click on attachments unless for some frequently asked FAQ: How can consumyou’re sure it’s from someone questions (FAQ), and to ers protect their money and you know and trust. discuss tips and best pracScammers are increasingly their information? tices for securing a better

HODAN: Here are a few best practices: • Guard your online information. Download and update antivirus software for your computer, and don’t enter sensitive information into public computers or on unsecured networks. Also, be careful about giving out your financial username and passwords on the internet—this includes financial websites and apps that offer tools to help you manage your accounts, invest or prepare your taxes. • Make purchases only on secure websites. Look for the symbol of a lock in the address of an internet site. That will help protect your credit card number, expiration date and three-digit CVV. • Change your passwords often. Change your passwords frequently and use a combination of letters, numbers and special characters. Don’t use your pet’s name, your child’s name, or anything else that could be easily figured out. • Create a separate password for each financial institution. This provides an additional level of protection

other documents that have your account information. Keep monthly checking and savings account statements in a secure location until you file your taxes and then shred these as well. Chase and other banks offer paperless statements, letting you see the information online without having to worry about paper. • Check your credit report. At least once a year, read through your credit reports carefully. You can request a free annual credit report from each of the three national credit reporting agencies, even if you don’t suspect any unauthorized activity on your account. Visit www.annualcreditreport.com.

in case there is an issue at one institution. • Monitor your accounts. Log into your accounts frequently—even daily— through online banking or on your mobile banking app to monitor transactions and your account balance. Look for transactions you don’t recognize. Also, check out your monthly statements and FAQ: How does Chase if there’s an issue, contact protect customers from your bank right away. fraud? • Set up extra confirmaHODAN: We see it as a tion. The proper name is partnership; we help protect two-factor or multi-factor your accounts and informaauthentication. It just means tion, and so do you. We you’ll need to take an extra monitor all of our accounts step or two to access your around the clock, including information. For example, it using security measures you could be requesting a text can’t see. with a code to be sent to the Also, if we find or you flag a mobile phone number you transaction that you didn’t augave the company before. At thorize, we offer Zero Liability Chase, when you sign into Protection, meaning you won’t your Chase account electronibe held responsible for it. cally for the first time or with a device we don’t recognize, Visit the Ventura Village we’ll ask you for your userbranch on E. Franklin to learn name, password and a tempomore about JPMorgan Chase’s rary identification code. And commitment to customer we’ll send it to you by phone, security through our fraud email or text message. prevention and protection tools. • Shred banking records, We look forward to working checks that you deposited with you. through mobile banking, and

Deluxe Business Spotlight:

Elsa’s House of Sleep continues legacy of service Sponsored by

During the 1970s, Elsa Rezene brought her entire family and her entrepreneurial spirit from Eritrea, Africa to Minnesota, vowing to own and operate her own business. Her son, Tetra Constantino, fondly remembers how his mother began their family business, Elsa’s House of Sleep, in the Midway neighborhood. “She started this business with a credit card and a prayer,” said Tetra. Today, and a generation later, this longest-running Black-owned furniture store carries on Elsa’s legacy by treating customers like family and embracing everyone who enters the store with their legendary service. And while Tetra and team understand the value of continuing this customer-

first mindset, they also see the furniture industry and their beloved neighborhood changing. So in a serendipitous moment, Elsa’s was one of six Black-owned businesses selected to be featured in Season 6 of the Small Business Revolution—an Emmynominated series by Deluxe designed to help small businesses overcome business challenges such as marketing, finance and operations to strengthen their future success. Reimaging the brand While many of the business practices have remained unchanged over the years, it was time to consider modernizing visual aspects of the brand to keep up with the changing market. That meant starting with Elsa’s logo. Original Logo

The design team’s goal was to refresh the look to pay homage to the founder,

while also conveying Elsa’s is more than just a mattress store. The updated design features an elegant signature style, reminding everyone that Elsa was not just the founder, but the heart and soul of the business.

Updated Logo

Refreshing the website In addition to modernizing Elsa’s brand, the Deluxe team saw an opportunity to enhance Elsa’s online presence to infuse market differentiators such as highlighting layaway, personalized sales, and their renowned delivery service. Featuring Personalized Service Highlighting Unique Services

Watch the complete makeover For those interested to see all the changes made to this multi-generation business—including a full remodel of the store—head to Hulu or smallbusinessrevolution. org, where Deluxe teams up with community leaders and industry, financial and tech experts to help Tetra and teams continue the evolution of Elsa’s dream and the business of family.

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December 9-15, 2021

Potter Continued from page 1

the 12 jurors and two alternates were chosen over a four-day period. Too many Asians However, two jurors who were not selected stirred up a bit of controversy. An Asian woman who said she was a first-year law student, admitted to having attended a racial justice protest, came off as level-headed and socially in tune was rejected outright by the defense, which used what is called a peremptory strike to eliminate her from the jury. When the prosecution raised a Batson challenge,

which is a motion that allows counsel to challenge the other side for eliminating a potential juror solely on the basis of race, the challenge was rejected by Judge Regina Chu, who is Asian as well. Judge Chu responded, “There are already two Asians on the jury.” The curious statement left one to wonder if it would be possible to have too many Whites on the jury. Interesting story Jury selection also revealed information by a juror (no. 52) which may have indicated former officer Potter’s views on race. According to the potential juror, a White woman, someone driving her friend’s car while the friend was in the back seat committed a hitand-run accident. She said that detective

Schools

Potter came to her friend’s apartment and instead of interrogating her about the accident “she started interrogating her about her boyfriend, who is Black.” The potential juror said the boyfriend was not present in the apartment but was at work at the time. She said Potter asked, “Why would you be with a guy like that? He’s a bad influence for you.” She described her friend as being mixed but said her hair is blonde and “she is White.” When Judge Chu asked the potential juror if she made the remarks because Potter thought he was a bad influence, or because he was Black, juror 52 answered, “Because he was Black and because he would be a bad influence to her.” The juror did not witness

any of this first hand but went on record saying, “I think assured the judge that her he [Yanez] did the right thing… friend “would not lie about This guy, in my mind, should never have been charged.” this.” Gray also implied in the interview that Yanez was jusGray for the defense Defense attorney Earl tified in killing Castile because Gray was criticized and seen “He did not say he had a perby many in the Black com- mit.” When Rosario asked, munity as persona non grata “How many people who are when he went on the record about to shoot you are going denigrating Philando Castile, to tell you they have a gun?” even after he had collected Gray answered, “Some would.” Gray also appeared to slanhis check for getting former St. Anthony policeman Geronimo der the dead man by continuYanez off on manslaughter ing to maintain that Castile was high, although that was charges. Immediately after the ver- never conclusively proven. In dict Gray chastised Ramsey none of his statements after County Attorney John Choi for the verdict did he acknowl“kowtowing” to public pres- edge the tragedy of the situsure and filing charges against ation or express sympathy for Yanez in the first place. In an Castile’s family. ill-timed and ill-conceived interview with Ruben Rosario Activists sound off “The only reason there will soon after the verdict, Gray

Community members lauded the changes at a Nov. 30 public hearing, yet warned the school board about its priorities. Jim Hilbert, chair of the education committee of the St. Paul NAACP, said, “The district is facing significant challenges that are greater than a well-rounded education.” He stressed that SPPS risks exacerbating racial segregation in the midst of an ongoing lawsuit. Parts of the proposal that remain, according to the Board, include: ● Cherokee Heights Montessori program relocates and merges at J.J. Hill Montessori and Cherokee Heights reopens as a community school.

● J.J. Hill Montessori relocates to the Obama site once remodeling is complete either fall 2024 or fall 2025 ● Galtier Elementary School closes and merges at Hamline. ● John A. Johnson Achievement Plus Elementary closes and merges at Bruce Vento. ● Jackson Preparatory Elementary School community program closes and merges at Maxfield. ● Jackson Preparatory Elementary School Hmong Language merges at Phalen Lake. ● L’Etoile du Nord French Immersion (LNFI) lower closes and merges at the LNFI upper campus ● Parkway Montessori and Com-

nanas home? Together we can never stop trying to protect our daughters from the violence in the streets,” HarContinued from page 1 rington said. Punctuating the press conference with emotion was Peter Hayden, the Harrington said he hoped that father of former state senator Jeff together the panel and lawmakers Hayden and the founder of Turning could tackle the question of “How Point, a culturally responsive chemiwe can bring our moms and our cal health clinic. Hayden recounted

the tragic shooting death of his daughter Taylor Hayden, 25, who was lost to random gun violence outside of an Atlanta nightclub in 2016. Peter Hayden noted that Tay-

Continued from page 1 during weeks of public comment. In response to community outcry, board members on Monday announced a revised version of Envision SPPS that removed three schools originally slated for closure: Paul and Sheila Wellstone Elementary School, Highwood Hills Elementary School, and LEAP High School. They cited the Highwood Hills neighborhood’s geographic isolation, Wellstone’s sustainable student enrollment size, and LEAP’s unique program.

Missing

Continued from page 1

Europe before the first cases were identified in southern Africa. The National Institute for Public Health and the Environment also acknowledged this on Nov. 30. The world acted swiftly to implement measures intended to limit omicron’s spread. The United Kingdom and the United States banned foreigners from South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Angola, Mozambique, Malawi, Zambia, Lesotho and Eswatini. After two people in the UK tested positive for the variant, Matifadza Hlatshwayo Davis, a Zimbabwean immigrant and health director for the city of St. Louis, tweeted, “But let’s only ban South Africa and 7 other African countries. And

there are other countries, without a clear link to South Africa. Not only are travel bans ineffective and performative, but this specifically perpetuates stigma and xenophobia.” Effectiveness of bans questioned Other countries, including Australia and Canada, have enacted similar restrictions. But some experts question the effectiveness of the bans. At least 15 U.S. states and 38 countries reported confirmed cases of the omicron variant by Dec. 5. By the time cases become widely reported, “the virus is much more widespread than we think,” Sampathkumar said. “And so, banning one particular country doesn’t really help with public health measures.” The infectious disease expert said, “The bans have never been applied in a fair manner.” She also noted that the U.S., which saw a rise in

munity Middle School closes and reopens as the Hmong Language Immersion and Culture Program upper campus

be some level of accountability is because people put pressure on them through protests,” said Toshira Garraway, who heads the group Families Supporting Families Against Police Violence. “Had that pressure not been applied, there would likely have been no trial. And without the video we would not be here as well.” Dimock added, “The defense that it was a mistake does not fly. It might fly if she had been like the officer in my case who had been on the job for only three months. They make [the taser] bright yellow and lightweight, and they put it on one side of the body for a reason. It’s not an acceptable error.” Mel Reeves welcomes reader responses to mreeves@spokesman-recorder.com.

● Riverview West Side School of Excellence community program closes and merges at Cherokee.” The district anticipates repurposing closed sites for early childhood programs, community partnerships, and temporary space during construction. Schools officials say while they anticipate more parent engagement and studies conducted concerning implementation, students from closed and merged schools will have priority placement for a school of their choosing. Feven Gerezgiher welcomes reader responses to feven.gerezgiher@gmail.com.

over the Gabby Petito case. Advocates charged that Black women and girls missing during that same time received minimal coverage compared to the around-the-clock media attention for Petito, which has been the norm historically. “There are so many examples where the data just tells us that we’re not placing that value or premium on the lives of our Black girls and women,” Richardson lamented. She said she hoped the task force serves as a blueprint for Minnesota and other other women.” states. “We are the first [state with a She added, “Black girls are much task force] and should not be the last. less likely to get Amber Alerts than Other states need to take action to White girls are. And that’s a really ensure that they’re doing the work to important distinction, because when protect Black women and girls.” there are no Amber Alerts, there are The panel is tasked with delving no police resources invested in the into the underlying causes of misscritical first 48 hours. And you don’t ing and murdered Black women and get the media attention when some- girls— including historic trauma, racone is classified as a runaway versus ism, sex trafficking, intimate partner a child in need of support or seen as violence, and media neglect—and a victim.” producing findings and policy soluAccording to a 2010 study by tions to the Commissioner of Public Ohio State University researchers, Safety and Minnesota Legislature by Black children made up 33.2% of December 2022. missing children cases but received only 19.5% of news media coverPaige Elliott welcomes reader age. This issue was pronounced responses to pelliott@spokesmanduring the recent media frenzy recorder.com.

ardson said. “Because when we look at the data, we see some really concerning disparities. Cases involving Black women and girls stay open four times longer than cases involving

“The data just tells us that we’re not placing that value or premium on the lives of our Black girls and women.”

lor Hayden was “not raised in the streets” and graduated from Prairie View A&M. “Some of the parents take care of their families,” he said. “But nobody tells you when the day is gonna come. No child should be left bleeding in the streets because someone didn’t care.” Rep. Richardson, who spearheaded the legislation behind the task force, spoke about the disproportionately high numbers of missing and murdered Black women and girls during an appearance on Peacock’s “Zerlina.” “I think one of the things that we’re really struggling with as a society is Governor Walz signs ceremonial bill authorizing the Missing and Murdered that we have not done enough work to place a value on the lives of Black African American Women Task Force. Courtesy of the Office of Gov. Walz women and Black girls,” Rep. Rich-

Omicron

Obama Elementary student testifies at St. Paul School Board meeting. Photo by Michelle Higgins

5

COVID-19 cases before omicron emerged, could have had a harder time identifying a new variant than South Africa because of the onslaught of cases facing scientists and health care workers. “[South Africans] were in a much better situation than the U.S. They were in between waves so-to-speak,” Sampathkumar said. “They certainly saw case numbers rising and then sequenced the virus and were able to show that it was a new variant. That is why South Africa picked it up first.” “Other countries may be less forthcoming about reporting new cases of the variant, now that they’ve seen how quickly restrictive bans followed South Africa’s finding,” lamented the doctor. “They know what will follow. So there’s going to be pressure on the scientific community to keep these results hidden if there are future variants. I

think this actually sets back public health.” Researchers with the University of Washington’s Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences found that travel bans “upend economies, communities and health care systems,” although there is little evidence to support their effectiveness. Travel bans are “little more than “public health theater,” said Northeastern University Professor Wendy Parmett.”It’s inappropriately stigmatizing,” said Parmet, who researches health policy and law. “Everybody can still travel to Scotland, but you can’t travel to South Africa? You’re sending the wrong signal.” However, Dr. Cameron Webb, a senior policy advisor for the White House COVID-19 Response Team, said, “The travel restrictions on African nations aren’t intended

to be discriminatory and are instead based on the number of cases in the banned countries. We know that travel bans are certainly not going to stop the spread of this variant. “[President Joe Biden’s] intention all along was to delay the inevitable as much as we could,” said Webb. He defended the decision-making process that brought about the ban while acknowledging that its “effect” could inflict disproportionate harm on the targeted countries. In the U.S., officials with the Centers for Disease Control say the number of omicron cases is likely to rise. A Minnesota man was among the first reported cases of the omicron variant in the country. The man recently attended an anime convention in New York City and later tested positive for the variant. He was fully vaccinated and had gotten a booster shot weeks before the

convention that drew tens of thousands of people. About 15 people who attended the convention with the man have also tested positive for the variant. The omicron variant is spreading twice as fast as delta in South Africa, scientists found in a study published on Dec. 2. “The speed and transparency of the South African and Botswana governments in informing the world of the new variant is to be commended,” wrote Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO regional director for Africa, on its website last week. “WHO stands with African countries which had the courage to boldly share life-saving public health information, helping protect the world against the spread of COVID-19.” Niara Savage welcomes reader responses to niaraalexandra@ gmail.com.

6

December 9-15, 2021

Arts & Culture Grab the eggnog— it’s time for holiday TV fun!

By Nadine Matthews Contributing Writer It’s that time of year again when our TV screens become a cornucopia of holiday cheers and tears as we take in holiday comedies, dramas, and everything in between. Indulge! We can lounge in our ugliest sweaters and comfiest PJs, enjoy cups of eggnog and plates full of leftovers, while taking in hours of feel-good TV without shame or guilt. Below is a sampling of holiday shows in December. Cheers! OWN “A Christmas Stray” 12/14, 7 pm A man with an empire state of mind finds himself hopelessly stranded in a small town on Christmas Eve, unable to shake the stray dog who ran him off the road, and irresistibly drawn to the free-spirited, local veterinarian. Stars Rhyon Nicole Brown. “A Chestnut Family Christmas” (streaming at www. oprah.com) When a talented pastry chef, who has always been the family black sheep and is

addiction. Stars Nick Cannon, Marsha Warfield, Teyana Taylor, Tommy Davidson.

Chaz Lamar Shepherd (l) and Demetria McKinney star in “Kirk Franklin’s A Gospel Christmas.” Courtesy of Lifetime currently working as a live-in cook/maid, accidentally commits to hosting her family for the holidays, she pretends she is the wealthy homeowner with a pitch-perfect life to impress them. BET/BET+ “Merry Switchmas” - 12/9, 7 pm Two identical sisters have a merry time when they play identity switch during a Christmas party, finding out more about their family and themselves before the night ends. Stars Valarie Pettiford.

“A Christmas Wish” 12/16, 7 pm A single mother needs a miracle so she and her daughter can survive Christmas. “Christmas For Sale” 12/23, 7 pm A fledgling real estate agent pretends to be a billionaire’s yoga instructor on a holiday ski trip to gain access to the kind of people with big bank accounts. Will her deceit spoil her chance at unexpected love? Stars Nadine Ellis.

VH1 “Let’s Get Merried” 12/13, 8 pm Follows a not-so-smart, hard-partying, down-on-herluck grinch who impetuously decides to get married at a Christmas-themed adventure park to a man she hasn’t met. Features Xosha Roquemore and Tajh Mowry. “Miracles Across 125th Street” - 12/16, 7 pm Follows a wild Harlem rapper who wants to confront his past on Christmas Eve by returning to his family’s church after battling drug

LIFETIME “Kirk Franklin’s A Gospel Christmas” (streaming on Lifetime with cable subscription) Demetria McKinney stars as an assistant pastor who grapples with the position of head pastor (and romance) coming her way in a new church. With Kirk Franklin as executive producer, you know the music is slamming. It doesn’t disappoint! The show aired Dec. 4 but you can still watch online at www. mylifetime.com/movies/agospel-christmas. “Mistletoe in Montana” 12/17, 7 pm Unlucky in love, rancher Merry’s luck might be about to change when a marvel of a man and single father Mark and his two kids book the ranch for Christmas week. Stars Duane Henry, Melissa Joan Hart.

mas tree whisperer Charlie Freemont cross paths when Charlie finds the perfect tree for the Maine Governor’s Holiday Celebration—right in Alma’s back yard. Will Christmas work its magic and bring these two strong-willed women together? Stars Tattiawna Jones. “Writing Around the Christmas Tree” - 12/25, 7 pm It’s a different world of love when successful novelist Mikaela Leighton decides to revive her deceased mother’s annual holiday writer’s retreat at her father’s snowy chalet in an attempt to cure her writer’s block. Stars Krystal Joy Brown, Curtis Hamilton, Dawnn Lewis. PEACOCK “The Real Housewives of The North Pole” - 12/9 (streaming) Boomerang’s Tetona Jackson is featured in Christmas Queens of North Pole as neighbors try outdoing each other for Best Holiday House decorating.

“Under The Christmas Tree”Nadine Matthews welcomes 12/19, 7 pm reader responses to nmatIn this tale of hate at thews@spokesman-recorder. first sight, marketing whiz com. Alma Beltran and Christ-

M OV I E R E V I E W

Halle Berry’s ‘Bruised’ packs a light punch By Dwight Brown NNPA Syndication film critic The American Black Film Festival named actressturned-director Halle Berry its official ABFF Ambassador in 2021. As the fest celebrated its 25th year, Berry proudly showcased her directorial debut “Bruised.” Normally the fest takes place in Miami, but this year ABFF’s Black films screened on their streaming service ABFFPLAY.com. Berry’s new film was one of the bright spots. “Bruised” (**1/2) Former UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) legend Jackie Justice (Halle Berry) is on the comeback trail as a New Jersey mixed martial arts fighter and a protective mother. There are a lot of challenges for the character to digest and a lot of plot devices for an audience to believe.

gets to show she still has Yet that’s what’s on the pages of the cliché script (Mi- fight in her bones. A sleazy promoter (Shamier Anderson) chelle Rosenfarb) that Berry offers her an opportunity for a uses as a blueprint. It’s like champion bout. It’s a glimmer starting a boxing match with a weight on one foot. Respect of hope but is complicated the the source material but know day her mom (Adriane Lenox) shows up with a surprise: that its generic words and characters are putting Berry’s “That’s your son. His daddy died.” The baby she gave up best intentions to the test. However, somehow, when at birth is now a kid named Manny (Danny Boyd Jr.). the bell rings, Berry flies out The script packs on so her corner—as a director/actor—and finds a way to build a much melodrama and backstory that it stretches reality story with heart and momenway past any norm: child, tum that lasts until the final spousal and parental abuse. round. Drinking her troubles away Alcoholism, homelessness, and underhanded payoffs. isn’t helping Justice’s plight. The final over-the-top device Her failed fighting career is a lesbian relationship that has reduced her to cleaning goes nowhere. houses and scrubbing toilets But even these trifling to make money. One fateful machinations don’t stymie night, her volatile boyfriend Berry’s solid instincts as a diand smarmy manager Desi rector. She pulls decent- -to(Adan Canto) coerces her into good performances from her attending an underground, cast. The martial arts fights unsanctioned MMA match. are well staged and photoThrough a mishap, Justice

Halle Berry stars in and directs “Bruised.”

Justice needs him most. Lenox graphed (cinematographer (“The Blind Side”) plays the Frank G. DeMarco). fighter’s tough-talking mother Everyone is cast approas a woman who gives what priately and wears clothes she gets in verbal spats. Sheila that reflect their being Atim (“The Underground (costume designer Mirren Gordon-Crozier). If the editors Railroad”) dignifies the role of Buddy the trainer/lover and Jacob Craycroft and Terilyn steals scenes with her stoic A. Shropshire had exhibited tighter control, 10-15 minutes presence. Berry’s skills behind the of excessive footage would be on the cutting room floor and camera are a work in progress. In front of the lens, she scenes wouldn’t drag in this is a virtuoso. No noticelong-winded 2h 9 m film. able makeup, glamor, or her Canto as the brute boytrademark sexiness. She looks friend is suitably threatening her age (55), and her face and temperamental. Anderappears as weathered as that son as the sketchy promotor of any pugilist who wears her is equally immoral. Great profession’s bruises and scars to see Stephen McKinley with pride. Henderson (“Fences”) in any She gets angry, sad, lost movie, and especially here as and loving—always playing a coach who steps up when

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Courtesy of Netflix the emotions deep. Her best acting is reserved for the ring. Body blows, punches and chokes holds—she makes it look like Justice is fighting for her life. Says Jackie to Buddy. “I have to figure my life out... I have to do it on my own.” Similarly, Berry seems very motivated to pursue her goals as a director and shows great promise. She’s got it. Netflix audiences will be impressed. On Netflix now. For more information about ABFF go to ABFF.com. To screen ABFF films all year, try ABFFPLAY.com. Visit NNPA Syndication film critic Dwight Brown at DwightBrownInk.com and BlackPressUSA.com.

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December 9-15, 2021

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Mpls Mayor Frey forms community safety group By MSR News Service Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has formed what his office has called a community safety workgroup tasked with developing public safety and accountability recommendations. The new group includes participants from various backgrounds, including former Mayor Sharon Sayles

pens in city hall and taking to the streets along with many other activists, I recognize that it’s time to come on the inside and do what I can do in collaboration with the people who have signed up to be a part of this massive undertaking,” Levy Armstrong said at a news conference announcing the new workgroup . “Minneapolis deserves a critical examination of the practices, laws and policies that underpin policing and community safety,” Levy Armstrong said. “This workgroup’s focus will be on developing evidence-based, detailed proposals that reflect the different voices across our city. I look forward to working with Mayor Frey and this team to continue developing concrete change The workgroup will be and reforms.” co-chaired by Nekima Levy Dr. Davis is the lead minisArmstrong and Rev. Dr. ter for the Plymouth CongreDeWayne Davis. Levy Armstrong is a civil rights lawyer, gational Church. He has a B.A. founder of the Racial Justice in economics and philosophy from Howard University, and Network, and co-owner of an M.A. in government and Black Pearl LLC. “As someone who normally politics from the University of Maryland, among other works outside of what hapto the table whose voices effectively reflect community safety priorities across Minneapolis neighborhoods. “Minneapolis has an extraordinary opportunity to show the rest of the country that true progress is within reach,” Frey said. “By setting aside politics and honing in on outcomes, we will be wellpositioned to enact lasting, meaningful change in our city.”

“This workgroup will be collectively resolved to show that we are serious about instilling accountability and enacting reforms.” Belton, Steve Cramer, Minneapolis Police Chief Medaria Arradondo, Jan Unstad and Christopher Uggen of the University of Minnesota, and Michelle Gross of Communities United Against Police Brutality (CUPAB). According to the mayor, he prioritized bringing people

Nekima Levy Armstrong (r) will co-chair a new public safety workgroup formed by Mayor Frey. Submitted photos academic accomplishments. “As a city, we have the opportunity to respond— with decisive action—to the trauma and grief we’ve experienced over the last 18 months,” Davis said. “The eyes of the world remain fixed on Minneapolis, and this workgroup will be collectively resolved to show that we are serious about

instilling accountability and enacting reforms. I’m grateful to the mayor for taking on these challenges in a substantive way and look forward to the hard work ahead.” Davis continued, “We have competing demands right now…that include the need to address the longstanding issues within the Minneapolis

Police Department and to bolster the leadership of Chief Arradondo and those who have remained in the department, as well as to address public safety concerns, particularly that the Black community has been experiencing.” The workgroup will begin meeting the week of December 13.

Sweet potato and pumpkin pie vie as holiday desserts Pumpkin pie and sweet potato | Photos by Kasumi Loffler on Pexels.com By R.B. King Contributing writer When it comes to Thanksgiving dessert, two pies reign supreme. Pumpkin and sweet potato pies are vital to the holiday feast, but which one is on the table is sometimes rooted in cultural and or regional preference. In many Black households, bringing a pumpkin pie to the Thanksgiving feast may result in folks getting the side-eye. And a sweet potato pie with a soggy crust may mean that the baker was not aware of the browning-the-pie-shell trick that keeps the crust nice and flakey. Sweet potatoes come from South America. They were first made into pies and tarts in Britain. It was a particular favorite of King Henry VIII and became associated with luxury desserts. Yes, the vaunted sweet potato pie has high-brow and bourgeoisie roots. Sweet potato pie made its way from Europe to colonial America and found roots in the South, where the weather was more suitable for the plant. It was often made on plantations by African slaves for slave-owners.

ing community.” They hand out pies after tragedies, on Juneteenth, on MLK day—the list goes on because they see how much the dessert can mean to people. Pumpkin pie has a very similar history to sweet potato pie. Pumpkins originated in Central America and were brought to Europe in the 1500s. It was originally called “pumpion” from the French “pompon,” in reference to its round shape. It was quickly adapted into a pie, and this recipe remained popular with settlers in New England. While the Rose McGee climate in New England made Submitted photo a result, it became linked to Black culture, and few Black folks can remember a time when sweet potato pie wasn’t on the table for a holiday gathering. “I’ve always considered the sweet potato pie to be the sacred dessert of Black culture,” said Rose McGee of Sweet Potato Comfort Pie. “To us, it has more soul than pumpkin.” She began the organization when Michael Brown was killed when driving down to Ferguson with some pies to hand out.

Sweet potato pie The cooks added their own taste, making it more to their liking, and kept the recipe and passed it down. As

She hasn’t looked back. Sweet Potato Comfort Pie’s mission statement is, “A catalyst for caring and build-

“I’ve always considered the sweet potato pie to be the sacred dessert of Black culture.” it difficult for sweet potatoes to prosper, pumpkins were well-suited. Over the years, pumpkin has become associated with Thanksgiving because it coincides with its harvesting time. In the 19th century, Thanksgiving was a controversial topic. Southern states saw the New England attempt to make the day a national holiday as trying to force their culture down their throat, and saw pumpkin pie, as a regional food, to be evidence of anti-slavery sentiment. Incidentally, in the 19th century pumpkin pie was favored by abolitionists, most

of whom hailed from the New England region of the U.S. Several of them included the pie in their written works.

Whether you’ll be eating sweet potato or pumpkin pie during this year’s festivities: Happy Holidays!

MSR staff contributed to this story. R.B. King welcomes reader responses to kaysi003@umn.edu.

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Fifth Precinct inspector issues public safety reminder For info, call 651-266-0600 or visit bit.ly/RamseyServiceCenters.

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MGN In light of recent robberies and carjackings, 5th Precinct Inspector Katie Blackwell has offered some public safety reminders. The area has seen an increase in aggravated robberies, particularly in the Lowry Hill East and Whittier Neighborhoods. Some incidents have occurred in the Kingfield neighborhood too. The suspect descriptions vary in race, gender and age. The majority of suspects have been described as males, and in a few cases females, in their late teens to 20 years old. Often, suspects approach victims when there are additional suspects nearby functioning as lookouts or drivers. In some cases a weapon is displayed or implied. It appears most victims are by themselves or in pairs, either walking, sitting in their vehicles or near their vehicles. The

suspects have attempted to steal vehicle keys, wallets, purses and/or cell phones. In some incidents, the suspects have used the stolen credit cards shortly after the incident, or they may steal the vehicle. Public safety officials are asking the public to remain aware of their surroundings, drive or walk away if they are not comfortable with a situation, lock their car doors, and provide the best description they can of the suspects and/or their vehicle to 911. There will be additional squads that are actively conducting directed patrols in the high-pattern areas. Inspector Blackwell will be working with specialty units to focus on these incidents and investigations. Information provided by MPD.

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Employment & Legals Free sand-salt for sidewalks and streets Welp! You knew it was coming and it’s finally here: the start of winter weather, along with slippery roads and icy sidewalks. Did you know the City of Minneapolis offers several sites where residents can pick-up a free sand-salt mixture for their residential sidewalks and driveways? The salt was added to the sand to prevent freezing. The ratio is up to 25% salt and 75% or more sand. The sand-salt mix is for Minneapolis residents only and limited to one five-gallon bucket. Locations are open 24-hours-a-day. Just bring your own pail and shovel!

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Plaintiff vs Issack Hassan Defendant THIS SUMMONS IS DIRECTED TO the above-named Defendant: 1. YOU ARE BEING SUED. The Plaintiff has started a lawsuit against you. The Plaintiffs Complaint against you is attached to this summons. Do not throw these papers away. They are official papers that affect your rights. You must there may be no court file number on this summons. 2. YOU MUST REPLY WITHIN 20 DAYS TO PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS. You must give or mail to the person who signed this summons a written response called an Answer within 20 days of the date on which you received this Summons. You must send a copy of your Answer to the person

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who signed this summons located at: Brantingham Law Office 2200 E Franklin Avenue, Suite 202 Minneapolis, MN 55404 332 Minnesota Street, Suite W1610 St. Paul, MN 55101 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

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THIS SUMMONS. If you do not Answer within 20 days, you will lose this case.

Certificate of Assumed Name

You will not get to tell your side of the story, and the Court may decide against

Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 333

you and award the Plaintiff everything asked for in the complaint. If you do not

ASSUMED NAME:

True North Tidy Co

PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS:

530 5th Street SE Minneapolis MN 55414 USA

want to contest the claims stated in the complaint, you do not need to respond. A default judgment can then be entered against you for the relief requested in the complaint. 5. LEGAL ASSISTANCE. You may wish to get legal help from a lawyer. If you

NAMEHOLDER(S): Name:

Jennifer Andrews

do not have a lawyer, the Court Administrator may have information about places

Address:

530 5th Street SE

where you can get legal assistance. Even if you cannot get legal help, you must

Minneapolis MN 55414

still provide a written Answer to protect your rights or you may lose the case.

USA If you submit an attachment, it will be incorporated into this document. If the attachment conflicts with the information specifically set forth in this document, this document supersedes the data referenced in the attachment.

Continued from page 10

The Honorable: Dynna L. Street

respond to this lawsuit even though it may not yet be filed with the Court and

• 6036 Harriet Ave., S. on West 60th St., between Lyndale and Harriet avenues • 1809 Washington St. N.E., at 18th and Jefferson • East 27th Street, just east of Longfellow Ave., near the Public Works gate • 2710 Pacific St., outside the main Public Works gate between 27th and 28th Ave., N.

SOE

6. ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION. The parties may agree to or be ordered to participate in an alternative dispute resolution process under Rule 114 of

Big Ten Player of the Year Stephanie Samedy, the first Black player to win the award in Gopher history. Miner had 31 assists and seven digs against Minnesota, and 52 assists in Stanford’s four-set win over Iowa State Dec. 3. She told the MSR, “My teammates have been so supportive… I’ve learned so much this year, and I think that I’m still learning. There definitely has been a really big learning curve” from high school and club to collegiate volleyball. She led the conference with 11.42 assists per set, good for eighth nationally, and posted a team-best nine double-doubles. The first-year setter also was named Pac-12 Freshman of the Week four times this season. But Miner quickly pointed out when asked about her season honors, “I really didn’t think about it much. I’m just trying to stay in the moment with my team and not worry about the accolades,” she said. What hasn’t been said about the 6’-2” Samedy, who led Minnesota with 16 kills in the victory over Stanford, and had 13 in the team’s 3-0 sweep over South Dakota last Friday? “I don’t know what her favorite color is,” said a smiling

December 9-15, 2021

9

McCutcheon on his star opposite hitter. It is expected that the redshirt senior, in her 5th and final collegiate season, will surpass 2,000 career kills (she’s now at 1,998) to become the fourth Gopher ever to reach the two-thousand kills’ mark. “She’s just so so special,” continued McCutcheon on Samedy, who broke all types of records during her time in Minnesota. “It’s just been such a joy to coach her.” Said Samedy after Saturday’s win, her 143rd career match, tops in program history: “It means a lot to play at The Pav and in the tournament. It’s awesome to continue to grow as a team.” She has a psychology degree, is attending graduate school, and hopes to play internationally this coming spring. Freshman outside hitter Natalie Glenn appeared in her first NCAA match, getting a key dig in set three against South Dakota. “She’s a really calm competitor,” said McCutcheon of the 5’-10” Glenn. “Her ability to step in like she did tonight and fill the space and help us out—it’s great.” “Just being on the sidelines is very nerve wracking,” said Glenn, “but being able to go onto the court and play in front of these amazing fans—just awesome.” Charles Hallman welcomes reader responses to challman@ spokesman-recorder.com.

the Minnesota General Rules of Practice. You must still send your written response the Complaint even if you expect to use alternative means of resolving this dispute.

By typing my name, I, the undersigned, certify that I am signing this document as the person whose signature is required,or as agent of the person(s) whose signature would be required who has authorized me to sign this document on his/her behalf, or in both capacities. I further certify that I have completed all

Bronston

required fields, and that the information in this document is true and correct and in compliance with the applicable chapter of Minnesota Statutes. I understand that by signing this document I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth

Continued from page 10

in Section 609.48 as if I had signed this document under oath.

Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder December 9, 16, 23, 2021

SIGNED BY: Jennifer Andrews MAILING ADDRESS: None Provided EMAIL FOR OFFICIAL NOTICES: truenorthtidy@gmail.com

State of Minnesota Certificate of Assumed Name

MinnesotaSpokesman-Recorder Spokesman-Recorder December 9, 2021 Minnesota December 9, 16, 2021

Case: Fatima Ibrahim v Issack Hassan: 02-CV-21-5454 Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 333 Size: 3.4167 x 10.25 Ad Run: 12/9/21 - 12/23/21 ASSUMED NAME: Ravel, a Curion Company Ad Options: PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS:

201 Irving Avenue North Suite 210 Minneapolis Minnesota 55405-1816 USA

Pledge

to make it easier for more small businesses owned by Continued from page 2 People of Color, women and Client: True North Tidy Co veterans to do business with Size:It will spur3.4167 x5 the federal government. innovation— Ad Run: 12/9/21 To support these improvehelping America’s entrepreAd Options: $150.00 ments, the Biden-Harris neurs to develop and bring Administration is now directto market the products and ing over 40,000 federal services of the future. contracting officers across Achieving President several federal agencies Biden’s new contracting goal to spend tens of billions will be a giant leap forward of dollars more with small, and make a big difference disadvantaged businesses. for many small businesses In other words, America and communities across the is about to shop small in a country, putting an extra very big way and put equity $50 billion into the hands of at the heart of how we do America’s small, disadvanbusiness. taged businesses over the We’re moving to implenext five years. ment these changes quickly We’re disaggregating to position small businesses federal contracting data to for vast opportunities ahead. track equity across racial With the unprecedented and ethnic categories, and opportunities created by the advancing reforms that Infrastructure Investment will increase transparency, and Jobs Act’s $1.2 trillion encourage accountability in historic investments to and, most importantly, drive upgrade America’s transinclusion in the U.S. govportation, water, energy ernment’s small business and broadband systems, we contracting system. Included in these reforms need to make sure all of our small businesses can get in is an effort to make certain that “category management,” the door to compete. a government-wide initiative Isabella Casillas Guzman is to strategically source comthe 27th administrator of the monly purchased goods and U.S. Small Business Adminisservices, doesn’t shut out tration. small businesses. We want

NAMEHOLDER(S): Name:

Curion LLC

Address:

111 Pfingston Road Suite 450 Deerfield MN 60015 United States

If you submit an attachment, it will be incorporated into this document. If the attachment conflicts with the information specifically set forth in this document, this document supersedes the data referenced in the attachment. By typing my name, I, the undersigned, certify that I am signing this document as the person whose signature is required,or as agent of the person(s) whose signature would be required who has authorized me to sign this document on his/her behalf, or in both capacities. I further certify that I have completed all required fields, and that the information in this document is true and correct and in compliance with the applicable chapter of Minnesota Statutes. I understand that by signing this document I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth

team (2016-17), and then ended up that very next season with the girls. This will be my fifth season with the girls.” Her first season was the school’s first winning campaign in a long time. Bronston credits the change in attitude along with using Hudl technology, which is used by high school coaches around the country. “I wish every team used Hudl because it makes it so much easier when we can exchange film,” declared Bronston. “That saves us time from having to go and watch games [in person]. Each of my players has their own login. Not only do we watch film together, they

watch film individually.” It’s more than basketball for Bronston. “It’s very important to me that I am an example for my players. Not just my African American players, [but also] for my players from other races. I may be the only Black woman that they come across every day. So, the example that I set for them is extremely important to me, because I know everybody is watching. “When they leave me, what do I want them to leave with? That [Black women] are very capable of managing and running programs. I feel like that’s doing my part to change the world.” Charles Hallman welcomes reader responses to challman@ spokesman-recorder.com.

in Section 609.48 as if I had signed this document under oath. SIGNED BY: Pam Ball MAILING ADDRESS: 111 Pfingston Road Suite 450 Deerfield Illinois 60015 EMAIL FOR OFFICIAL NOTICES: ap@curioninsights.com

Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder December 9, 16, 2021

View Continued from page 10

COMMUNITY CLINIC ATTORNEY Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid. For details, go to: https://mylegalaid.org/employment Client: Ravel, a Curion Company Size: 3.4167 x 5invited to join the Writers Ad Options: Spokesman-Recorder For an additional $150 with print, you can get online Without print $300 The Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder, weekly African Client: MN Legal Aid American community newspaper (print and online), Size: 3.4167 x 1 welcomes inquiries from freelance writers interested in Run Date:compelling 12/9/21 news stories and features. writing Ad Options: For an additional $150 with print, you can get online Looking for Without writersprint intimately $300 familiar with the African American experience, interested in telling its stories.

Experience in journalistic writing preferred. Payment is per article and is commensurate with experience. Send inquiries to Mel Reeves (Community editor), at mreeves@spokesman-recorder.com.

1982. Hunt became the first Black sportswriter inducted into the Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame in 2017, and was 2011 NABJ Journalist of the Year. “I covered high school, college and professional sports at the Tribune,” Hunt told the MSR. “I covered just about every major sports person in the last 30 years in Philly.” His 2008 column started the drive to get Wilt Cham-

berlain on a U.S. stamp, which became a reality in 2014. He also penned columns on Dawn Staley and John Chaney among many local and national notables. “There’s always a story to write,” noted Hunt, who officially retired Dec. 1. “I’ve been really blessed to have a long career. “I’m going to spend some time with family and friends now,” he concluded. “I still plan to do some writing.” Charles Hallman welcomes reader responses to challman@ spokesman-recorder.com.

10

December 9-15, 2021

Sports Gopher men’s basketball season off to a great start irst-year University of Minnesota Men’s Basketball Coach and DeLaSalle alum Ben Johnson has gotten the Golden Gophers off to a 7-0 start

University of Minnesota point guard Payton Willis tries to get around Purdue Fort Wayne University guard Damian Chong Qui during a 78-49 victory on Friday, November 19, at Williams Arena.

University of Minnesota guard Jamison Battle (DeLaSalle) during a 55-44 victory on Wednesday, November 24 at Williams Arena.

with victories over the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Western Kentucky University, Princeton University, Purdue Fort Wayne University, Jacksonville Univer-

University of Minnesota Head Men’s Basketball Coach Ben Johnson (DeLaSalle) has led the Gophers to an impressive 6-0 start.

sity, the University of Pittsburgh and Mississippi State. Here are some photos from the Gophers’ undefeated streak.

University of Missouri-Kansas City guard Jacob Johnson (Champlain Park) guards University of Minnesota forward Eric Curry during a 71-56 Gophers win on Tuesday, November 9 at Williams Arena.

Despite slow start, Gopher volleyball in post-season play

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

University of Minnesota guard Sean Sutherland takes a charge from Purdue Fort Wayne forward Ra Kpedi during a 78-49 victory on Friday, November 19 at Williams Arena.

Few second chances for Black coaches

get their feet in the door.” “If you don’t make it, that door may not open for the next woman of color or Black woman to come through that door,” noted Nikki Fargas, who coached at two Power Five schools and now is president of the WNBA’s Las Vegas Aces. She added that Black women coaches shouldn’t have to “walk on a wire with their jobs.” lack women’s college University of Southern basketball head coaches often aren’t offered California Associate AD Julie Rousseau said Black women second chances if fired after Kami Miner Stephanie Samedy Natalie Glenn coaches need support from their first coaching opportutheir schools. She asked, Photos by Mitchell Palmer McDonald nity, says a new Global Sport “How can these women find Institute (GSI) study. their identity and feel comGSI, which is located at the most Black players (three) this program are extremely after a 3-3 start this fall as fortable in such an unsupArizona State University, among the four-team field last McCutcheon assembled one of high,” admitted McCutcheon portive space?” looked at HBCU and Power weekend. Iowa State had two to reporters, including the the toughest non-conference The Gophers’ last two Five head coaching hires MSR, last Saturday after Min- and South Dakota zero. slates in Gopher history, play(1984-2020) and found The Cardinal-Gopher match nesota’s 3-0 first-ever sweep ing five top-25 teams and 14 that Black women had the last Saturday featured two ranked opponents overall, along of Stanford in the NCAA second-largest gain (+9) second round at Maturi Pavil- sistahs as starters: Pac-12 with the always-tough Big Ten behind White men (+10) and Some doubted early on Freshman of the Year 6’-0” setion. “The preseason is tough. schedule, to best prepare his well ahead of Black men (+1). whether Minnesota would ter Kami Miner, and two-time We’re better now.” squad for December play. But Black women had the make this post season field Minnesota and Stanford had “The expectations around ■ See SOE on page 9 shortest average head coach- opponents prior to beginning Big Ten play Monday vs. ing tenures and were least Nebraska featured virtually likely to get a second head all-Black teams but coached coaching job, while White by White women. women were twice as likely “It means a lot to look on to get second chances. the court and see Black playOther findings include: ers, and then on the sidelines Black women are held to see Black head coaches…behigher standards than White females and male peers, even ing their authentic selves and I really wanted to get back learned from her as a player By Charles Hallman not trying to fit into any mold,” if Black women often are into coaching, because I just and as a coach as well.” Sports Columnist said former Tennessee player more qualified on average loved it.” Bronston played Division Andraya Carter, now an in terms of previous playing When her youngest son I basketball (Central Conolanda Bronston’s ESPN/SEC Network analyst. experience and educational started playing basketball, necticut State, 1991-95) and simple goal as a coach “I think it broadens the image background. Black women his coach asked Bronston to coached in college (Norfolk is to improve each day. that little girls see when they in particular also face more State assistant, 1996-98). But help out. Then she started She is in her fifth season as picture their future.” racial and gender stereocoaching other youth teams she admitted that she really head girls’ basketball coach didn’t see herself in coaching. “for a few years” while she was types than their White peers, at Saint John’s Country Day, a working at her day job—Bron- making it harder to get into “I grew up in Blacksburg, small private school in suburcoaching in the first place as ston has an MBA. But a sudVirginia—greatest small town ban Jacksonville, Fla. (Orange den change in her life became well as to advance. in the country,” she said. “I Park). The MSR recently attended a wish fulfilled. just wanted to make money Bronston was a featured a virtual GSI panel discussion “I got downsized,” she because I didn’t grow up with speaker at Hudl’s Swish ’21 on women’s basketball. The virtual event in September. panelists noted that Black Her 10-minute presentation female coaches do not reflect on creating a championYolanda Bronston the percentages of Black feship culture was impressive Courtesy of Hudl male players: 92% of HBCU enough that the MSR reached players and 42% of PWI out to her to further expound. ond Black woman to win a (primarily White institutions) “I want to be part of a national championship and players are Black. winning program,” noted Donald Hunt first Black woman to win an Black athletes aren’t reBronston. “I’d seek out those Submitted photo Olympic gold medal both as a a lot of money. recalled. “I called my husband ceiving an equal opportunity coaches that I see are very player and head coach. when it comes to coaching, and I was so happy. I knew “When I left Norfolk State, successful. I’ve read ev“Hopefully one day I’ll get Hunt retires said Penn State Assistant that day I wanted to coach.” I got married and moved to erything that the late great Veteran sportswriter DonHistory and African American The Saint John’s job Jacksonville, Fla.,” she noted. coach Pat Summitt wrote, and to meet her and talk to her,” continued Bronston. “Dawn Studies Professor Amira Rose ald Hunt retired last week But soon thereafter, she real- “landed in my lap,” said BronI’ve tried to implement a lot Staley has been like an idol after over four decades, most Davis. She added that Black ized that coaching was a part ston, the school’s business of those things in everything of mine since I was 14 years with the Philadelphia Tribune, office associate. “I started out coaches often must resort of her. “I looked around and that I do as a coach.” old [when] she was playing where he started working in to looking at HBCUs to find as an assistant for the boys’ tried to get [back in] coachBronston also follows at the University of Virginia. I ing, but nothing panned out. coaching opportunities “and Dawn Staley as the sec■ See Bronston on page 9 ■ See VIEW on page 9

oo often overshadowed by football, college volleyball’s post season now is in full swing. No. 12 Minnesota (22-8, 15-5 Big Ten) this weekend is in its 19th NCAA Regional Semifinals in program history, and in its eighth under Head Coach Hugh McCutcheon. They will play No. 5 Baylor Thursday, Dec. 9 in Madison, Wisc.

“I’m just trying to stay in the moment with my team and not worry about the accolades.”

“There’s always a story to write.”

Black coach wants to win because ‘everybody is watching’

“It’s very important to me that I am an example for my players.”