December 28, 2023 - MN Spokesman-Recorder

Inside this Edition...

Read about the best films of 2023 on page 7.

THE VOICE OF BLACK MINNESOTA SINCE 1934

December 28, 2023 - January 3, 2024

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Vol. 90

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YEAR IN REVIEW he CROWN Act, which stands for “Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair,” would prohibit discrimination based on traits associated with race, such as hair texture and hair styles. The bill HF37, introduced by Rep. Esther Agbaje (DFL-Minneapolis) passed by a 111-19 vote on Jan. 11. “I am proud of my colleagues for passing the CROWN Act into law,” said the chief author of the House bill Rep. Agbaje, when the bill was signed into law on February 1.

Black hairstyles that are protected under state law Photo by flow clark/unsplash

Rep. Esther Agbaje introducing HF37, the CROWN Act, in Minnesota’s house of representatives. Photo courtesy of Paul Battaglia

he year began with a series of bills passed in the Minnesota state legislature that were designed to advance the DFL agenda. The party’s progressive platform included legalization of adult-use marijuana; the passage of the Crown Act that prohibited hair discrimination; establishing Juneteenth as a state holiday; and House Bill HF55, which established the Office of Missing and Murdered Black Women and Girls, authored by Rep. Ruth Richardson. Months later, Rep. Richardson would resign from the legislature and take on the role of CEO of the regional Planned Parenthood organization. The issue of homelessness in the Twin Cities and the challenges of finding affordable housing were persistent concerns throughout the year—from encampment evictions at The Quarry that marked the beginning of the year, to the rally to stave off sweeps at Camp Nenookaasi in December. Throughout the year, fallout from the George Floyd murder, the DOJ report, and the criminal justice system continued to resonate with our community. From police reform to the new Minneapolis public safety commissioner’s arrival and departure, the $8.875 million the city paid to settle Derek Chauvin brutality cases, Chauvin’s stabbing in prison, the carjacking epidemic, crime and drug use on public transit, the standoff at Stillwater prison, and the debate over the relocation of the Third Precinct—are all evidence of the chronic issues that continue to plague our community. In North Minneapolis, the year began with the closure of Aldi’s grocery and Walgreen’s and the prospect of relocation and marginalization of Northside businesses and cultural institutions to make way for the proposed Blue Line extension. While the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians has played out nationally, the response to the crisis locally has been largely muted. However, there were “good news” stories in 2023—Saint Paul’s reparation legislation, hiphop’s 50th celebration, restoration of voting rights to those who were formerly incarcerated, and the exoneration and release of Marvin Haynes a few weeks ago after nearly 20 years in prison.

n March 3, Gov. Walz signed a bill crafted by state legislators that restored the voting rights of those who were formerly incarcerated. The law went into effect on July 1, allowing 55,000 Minnesotans to participate, without restrictions, in the most fundamental democratic process—voting. “They say if you want people to be successful and reintegrate into society, and you want to decrease recidivism, and you want to make sure that individuals are not going to re-offend, you make sure that they can be a part of the fabric of our democracy,” observed Senator Bobby Joe Champion.

Minnesota Senate President Bobby Joe Champion, who helped spearhead efforts to restore voting rights who were formerly incarcerated. Photo by Chris Juhn

n November, the Minneapolis City Council voted to purchase and relocate the Third Precinct headquarters to 2633 Minnehaha Avenue, an industrial park in the southern part of the Seward neighborhood that could potentially include tenants and a community safety center.

n April 28, the Minnesota Senate passed a recreational marijuana legalization bill along a 34-33 party-line vote, following the House’s passage of a bill. The House and Senate bills were merged, and a final version was signed into law by Gov. Tim Walz in May.

Pexels MGN As part of the marijuana legalization bill, most minor convictions for possession were automatically expunged.

The site of the old Third Precinct that was burned during the protests over the murder of George Floyd Photo by H. Jiahong Pan ■ See YEAR IN REVIEW on page 5

2 December 28, 2023 - January 3, 2024

Metro

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By MSR News Service

T

his year, several notable national Black figures passed away, including actors Andre

Braugher and Richard Roundtree, writer and activist Louise Meriwether, musician Rudolph

Isley of the Isley Brothers, Tulsa Race Massacre survivor Hughes Van Ellis, MLK’s sister Christine King Farris, music legend Tina Turner, actor and football Hall of Famer Jim Brown, actor and activist Harry Belafonte, and jazz pianist Ahmad Jamal among others.

Also among those we lost in 2023 are beloved and cherished members of the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder community—MSR publisher emeritus Norma Jean Williams, and longtime contributor to the newspaper’s health page and revered Black community supporter Dr. Charles Crutchfield. In addition, the Black community lost several longtime, prominent fixtures in the Twin Cities, whose contributions to our culture, history and character will be sorely missed.

Norma Jean Williams Norma Jean Williams joined the newspaper managing its backroom operations before taking on the role of vice president in 1976. During that time, she interviewed local and national celebrities such as Eartha Kitt, Rosa Parks, James Brown, and B.B. King for the newspaper. She died peacefully on June 6, at age 81, at the home of her daughter, MSR Publisher and CEO Tracey Williams-Dillard.

Archie Givens Jr.

A

Dr. Charles Crutchfield lll

Nothando Zulu

After battling non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma for two and a half years, Dr. Charles Crutchfield III died on June 21 at the age of 62. An acclaimed Twin Cities dermatologist and part of a prominent family of physicians, Dr. Crutchfield was known for his warm and outgoing personality, his playful sense of humor, his ability to bring people together, and a penchant for embracing life to the fullest. In addition to serving as the senior medical advisor for the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder, he also served as the team dermatologist for the Minnesota Twins, Minnesota Timberwolves, Minnesota Wild, and Minnesota Vikings.

Nothando Zulu was a master storyteller, cofounder, and president of the Black Storytellers Alliance (BSA) and producer of the annual Black Master Storytellers Festival, “Signifyin’ & Testifyin’” for the past 32 years. She was best known as a warm, loving community advocate whose storytelling prowess earned her numerous national and international awards for oral storytelling in the African and African American traditions. She passed on September 11, at the age of 78. Nothando, which means “mother of love” in the Zulu language, was proud to say that she was a country girl from rural Franklin in Southampton County, Virginia. Born a sharecropper’s daughter, she came to Minnesota at the age of 16.

Andre “Debonaire” McNeal

Gordon Kirk

Hosea Roberson

James E . rnest Williams, Jr

mong those notable community members who also passed away in 2023, were local businessman, philanthropist, and humanitarian Archie Givens Jr.; local music promot-

er and youth activist Andre “Debonaire” McNeal; as well as centenarians Gordon Kirk and Hosea Roberson. Kirk was a WWII veteran and longtime St. Paul resident. Hosea Roberson was honored in 2022 with the Congressional Gold Medal for his service as a Montford Point Marine in WWII. The tragic loss of Norma Jean Williams was followed by the death of her son, James Williams, Jr., brother of Tracey Williams-Dillard. He died on August 4. He enjoyed life, good food and had an infectious laugh that would bring a smile to those around him.

Richard Roundtree

T

Hughes Van Ellis

Tina Turner

Jim Brown

Harry Belafonte

his year, several notable national Black figures passed away, including actors Andre Braugher and Richard Roundtree, writer and activist Louise Meriwether, musician Rudolph

Isley of the Isley Brothers, Tulsa Race Massacre survivor Hughes Van Ellis, MLK’s sister Christine King Farris, music legend Tina Turner, actor and football Hall of Famer Jim Brown,

actor and activist Harry Belafonte, and jazz pianist Ahmad Jamal among others.

December 28, 2023 - January 3, 2024

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HOMES• FAMILIES• LEGACIES HOMES• FAMILIES• LEGACIES

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Health

4 December 28, 2023 - January 3, 2024

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Save a Life Stations aim to prevent opioid overdoses in public spaces By Cole Miska Contributing Writer Two local longtime friends, Jim Barrett and Andrew Kamin-Lyndgaard, often spoke to each other about the opioid crisis. The pair wanted to find a way to help the community, particularly in terms of preventing overdose deaths. Out of their desire to help, they created “Save A Life Stations”—containers stocked with Naloxone to reverse opioid overdoses, fentanyl testing strips, and other supplies aimed at preventing overdoses and saving lives. On average, one person died from an overdose every day in Hennepin County last year. Barrett hopes to Jim Barrett (far right) with a Save A Life Station. This station was given to reduce that number. “I just thought Audua Pugh of the Jordan Area Community Council (far left). that for one thing, the availability of Photo by Cole Miksa

“In 2021, it’s disheartening to note that bystanders were present at 46 percent of fatal opioid overdoses.”

Naloxone was one of the biggest issues,” he said. “I was thinking about it and was like, ‘What’s the easiest, simplest way?’” Save A Life Stations are made from old newspaper stands. KaminLyndgaard said one Save a Life Station costs about $200 to make. He modifies and applies a vinyl wrap to the boxes in his garage. Barrett is also hoping to make a smaller version that could be mounted on a wall, similar to an emergency first aid kit. The pair want the boxes

to be as common as fire extinguishers or defibrillators, saying the supplies within the Save a Life Stations are just as likely to save a life. “In 2021, it’s disheartening to note that bystanders were present at 46 percent of fatal opioid overdoses,” Barrett said. “Had they been equipped with Narcan/Naloxone and knew how to use it; lives could have been saved.” Barett carries Naloxone with him everywhere he goes. While he has not had to use it yet, he wants to

New cell-based gene therapies offer hope for sickle cell disease patients By Stacy M. Brown The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has greenlit two revolutionary cell-based gene therapies, Casgevy and Lyfgenia, marking a significant leap forward in treating sickle cell disease (SCD) for patients aged 12 and older. The approval by the FDA signifies the commencement of a novel epoch in managing sickle cell disease, providing optimism to individuals whose lives have been significantly disrupted by the arduous condition. Sickle cell disease, a group of inherited blood disorders, affects around 100,000 individuals in the United States and is predominant among African Americans. Health officials said the root cause of SCD is a mutation affecting hemoglobin, a crucial protein in red blood cells responsible for oxygen delivery. The genetic problem causes red blood cells to have a unique “sickle” shape, which can lead to vaso-occlusive events (VOEs) or vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs), which are very painful and damage organs. The recurrence of these crises poses life-threatening risks and potential disabilities. “Sickle cell disease is a rare, debilitating, and life-threatening blood disorder with significant unmet need, and we are excited to advance the field,” said Nicole Verdun, M.D., director of the Office of Therapeutic Products within the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research. Casgevy, a groundbreaking cell-based gene therapy, is the first FDA-approved treatment employing CRISPR/Cas9, a revolutionary genome editing technology. The therapy is for individuals 12 years of age or older who have recurrent vaso-occlusive crises. It changes the patient’s hematopoietic stem cells using CRISPR/Cas9, a technology that can precisely edit DNA. The edited cells are then transplanted back into the pa-

Courtesy of NNPA tient, enhancing the production of fetal hemoglobin and preventing the sickling of red blood cells. Lyfgenia is another cell-based gene therapy that uses a lentiviral vector to change genes. The FDA approved it for those 12 years of age or older who have SCD and a history of vaso-occlusive events. Lyfgenia changes blood stem cells to make HbAT87Q, genetherapy-derived hemoglobin that looks like adult hemoglobin and makes it less likely that red blood cells will sickle. Both therapies utilize the patients’ blood stem cells, administered through a one-time, single-dose infusion following myeloablative conditioning. “These approvals represent an important medical advance with the use of innovative cellbased gene therapies to target potentially devastating diseases and improve public health,” said Dr. Peter Marks, director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research. The Casgevy and Lyfgenia applications received priority review, orphan drug, fast track, and regenerative medicine advanced therapy (RMAT) designations. Casgevy was granted approval to Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc., and Lyfgenia to Bluebird Bio, Inc. The FDA said its approval of Casgevy was based on a singlearm, multicenter trial evaluating its safety and effectiveness in adult and adolescent SCD patients. Of the 44 treated patients,

93.5 percent achieved freedom from severe VOC episodes for at least 12 consecutive months. Common side effects included low platelet and white blood cell levels, mouth sores, nausea, and musculoskeletal pain. Lyfgenia’s approval was based on a 24-month multicenter study, with 88 percent of patients achieving complete resolution of VOEs between six- and 18 months post-infusion. Side effects included stomatitis, low blood cell levels, and febrile neutropenia. A black box warning highlighting the risk of hematologic malignancy accompanies Lyfgenia’s label, emphasizing the need for lifelong monitoring in patients. “Today’s actions follow rigorous evaluations of the scientific and clinical data needed to support approval, reflecting the FDA’s commitment to facilitating the development of safe and effective treatments for conditions with severe impacts on human health,” asserted Dr. Marks. Editor’s Note: At its present level of development, this sickle cell treatment is expensive, requires long hospitalizations, and is unlikely to be available to the great majority of people managing sickle cell disease, for some time. We will continue to follow the developments of this treatment. Stacy M. Brown is the NNPA Newswire senior national correspondent.

always be prepared—many opioid overdoses occur when people unknowingly consume opioids, either through drugs laced with fentanyl or counterfeit pills containing fentanyl. Barrett hopes to place the stations anywhere there might be people. He said bars, libraries, and retail locations were a few spots he would like to see the boxes. Once installed, supplies can be ordered for the boxes by the hosting locations. So far, Barrett and Kamin-Lyndgaard have produced two Save a Life Stations. One is located at the East Side Neighborhood Services building, and

the other was given to Audua Pugh of the Jordan Area Community Council. Pugh saw the Save a Life Station when Barrett and Kamin-Lyndgaard brought it to a community discussion on overdoses and harm reduction. She was impressed by the box and gladly accepted when the pair asked her to put up the Save a Life Station at the community center. Barrett said orders outpacing production of the stations would be “a good problem to have,” and they currently plan to continue making the boxes for anyone who wants one. Barrett recommends anyone who wants training on how to properly administer Naloxone to contact the Steve Rummler HOPE Network. In an emergency, there are also instructions provided by scanning a QR code on the side of a Naloxone kit that will detail its use. Barrett and Kamin-Lyndgaard are considering their next move. Barrett says he is unsure if they want to make a business for Save a Life Stations, but hopes that seeing the kits will inspire others to create their own solutions to help combat overdoses in their communities. For more info, visit bit.ly/SaveALifeStation.

Courtesy photo

Cole Miska welcomes reader responses at cmiska@spokesman-recorder.com.

CORRECTION:

In last week’s story “Harm reduction and drug use in Black communities,” it was stated that Dr. Ronda Marie Chakolis and Sam Simmons were former addicts, which was incorrect. We apologize for the error.

December 28, 2023 - January 3, 2024

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YEAR IN REVIEW Continued from page 1

risoners incarcerated at Stillwater, a maximum-security facility, were put on lockdown in September, following actions by some inmates who demanded better living conditions amid a near-record-breaking heatwave.

Protestors outside Stillwater prison

Photo by Chris Juhn

he city of Minneapolis declared October 14, 2023, Twin Cities Hip Hop Day honoring local legends on hip-hop’s 50th anniversary. The event recognized the local hip hop community at First Bridge Park on the riverfront.

Twin Cities honorees gathered for the 50th anniversary of hip-hop.

n December, the city indefinitely postponed the eviction of residents at Camp Nenookaasi, an unhoused encampment at 23rd Street and 13th Avenue in south Minneapolis, despite complaints of crime and drug use from nearby neighbors and the Metropolitan Urban Indian Directors (MUID).

Protestors rally to stop city from encampment sweep.

Photo by Cole Miska

arvin Haynes was released from Stillwater prison on December 11, after nearly 20 years behind bars for a wrongful murder conviction. “I’m so excited to see my family. It’s been years since I’ve seen a lot of them,” Haynes said after his release. “I haven’t seen my mom in like three or four years since she had her stroke. So that’s been difficult to deal with, to go through this and not being able to see them. It’s been a struggle. But I’m just glad I’m here.”

Photo by Chris Juhn

adshousands to run ONE TIME, the week beginning 12/24/2023 gathered outside the Minnesota State Capitol on Oct. 18, to rally in support of Palestinians and to call for a ceasefire in Gaza. Protestors brought signs condemning the actions of Israel while others waved the Palestinian flag atop the steps of the capitol building.

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Marvin Haynes at a press conference outside Hennepin County Courthouse following his

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6 December 28, 2023 - January 3, 2024

Business

2023 Black Business SPOTLIGHTS hroughout the year, the MSR has profiled Blackowned companies and entrepreneurs who are succeeding in a difficult economy. Many have bounced back from COVID, opening brick-and-mortar sites while bolstering their online businesses. In many instances, they have had to overcome personal struggles, difficulty finding employees, and lack of traditional financing. However, one thing they all share is a passion for what they do and a resilience in the face of obstacles. Here are just a few of the businesses we spotlighted this year from a plus-size clothing store, to a Saint Paul bookstore, to a coffee shop, to an architectural design firm. To learn more about these businesses and owners highlighted in our Black Business Spotlight and additional businesses featured throughout the year, visit www.spokesman-recorder.com.

Render Free

Arielle Grant, founder of Render Free Submitted photo more info on rental spaces, visit www.renderfree.com.

4RM+ULA “Entrepreneurship is not for the faint of heart,” said James Garrett, Jr., a founding partner in the 12-person, St. Paul-based, Black architectural firm, 4RM+ULA. “Anyone who has the courage to step up and take it on—I have to tip my hat to them.” 4RM+ULA Founder and Partner James Garrett Photo by Chris Juhn

Some of the Twin Cities business success stories Fresh Heir

The Hype Mpls “I’m a hip hop artist, teaching artist, and entrepreneur in the Twin Cities,” said Malik Watkins, who is also known as MaLLy on the local music scene. “In addition to the music business, I also have a commercial and residential newspaper delivery service, Fresh Heir Delivery, LLC,” added Watkin.

For more info about Fresh (l-r) Arif Mohamed, Sir Curtis Kirby, Yassir Mohamed, and Heir Delivery, email freshheirdAbdulkarim Abdulle Photo by Ashley Lauren Fresh Heir owner Malik Watkins elivery@gmail.com or call 612Photo by Chris Juhn 669-5520. The Hype Mpls opened its place to shop for locally owned doors in March of last year clothing brands. (MSR, March 26, 2022) and has become a destination for The Hype Mpls is located at professional athletes, artists, 2835 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis. and social media celebs on For more information, contact 612When Nadine Walker starttheir visits to the Twin Cities. 545-5314. Cutz by Hype is located ed her online business in 2012, Known for carrying the latest at 2817 Hennepin Ave. S., Ste. 110, she never imagined that she sneaker releases from Jordans Minneapolis. For more information, would eventually be able to to Yeezys, Hype is also the contact 612-323-6542. open a plus-size boutique in Brooklyn Park that caters to women of all shapes and sizes.

Nadine’s Plus Size Boutique

The unpretentious building sits across from Logan Park, nestled next to Elim Church. Once inside the 4,000 squarefoot location, Render Free—a new Black, woman-led company that offers a coworking space and lounge in Northeast Minneapolis—opens up to a beautiful atrium, multiple conference rooms, and flex spaces alongside a wellness classroom. Render Free is located at 685 13th Ave. NE, Minneapolis, and open Monday through Friday from 8:30 am until 5 pm. For

spokesman-recorder.com

4RM+ULA is located at 370 Wabasha Street N. in Saint Paul, MN. For more info visti www.4rmula.com.

Nadine’s Plus Size Boutique is located at 1444 85th Ave. N., Brooklyn Park, MN. For information, call 612-293-0371, or go to Boutique owner Nadine Walker www.nadinesboutique.store. Photo by Chris Juhn

In 1990, Melanie March Leehy was inspired to launch a nonprofit called The Dwelling. “It was a coffeehouse that mentored urban youth and gave them a place to be loved and to call home,” says Leehy, who is almost 60 now, recalling her first coffee shop. With When Gabe Tandoh opened her plan to be a sustainable cofTraining Day Fitness five years fee shop and a track record of ago, it wasn’t his first time work- community service, she won the ing as a trainer at the Brooklyn- bid to open her own coffee shop, Park location. “When the gym Mocha Momma’s Coffee, in the was about to permanently close, public library at 300 Nicollet Mall I saw my opportunity to come in June 2022. back and revamp it and give it new life,” said Tandoh. Mocha Momma’s Coffee is located at 300 Nicollet Mall, on the Training Day Fitness is located at first floor next to the entrance to 1460 85th Ave. N., Brooklyn Park. the public library. For more in- Mocha Momma’s Coffee owner Gabe Tandoh For more information, call 763-777- formation, go to their Facebook Melanie March Leehy Photo by Chris Juhn 5983, or go to www.tdfmn.com. page, or call (612) 474-5400. Photo by Chris Juhn

Training Day Fitness

Black Garnet Books

Mind the Crown

When Dionne Sims decided to launch Black Garnet Books in the summer of 2020, her life was headed in a totally different direction. “I was working in the tech industry in 2020,” said the 30-year-old Sims of her journey to becoming a Black bookstore owner.

“As Brown and Black women, we are told that we need to be strong at all times,” says Adrianna Willis, CEO and founder of Mind the Crown, LLC, which sells curated self-care gift boxes. “We have to guard our hearts at all times. We can’t be vulnerable because of the burden of having to be strong,” says Willis. Her goal is to let women know that “strong and strength are not equal.” says Willis. Find more info at mindthecrown. Founder Adrianna Willis com or call 612-275-5468. Photo by Jiccarra N. Hollmon

Mocha Momma’s Coffee

Renaissance Renaissance men’s clothing boutique is tucked away in St. Paul’s Maplewood Mall, on the first floor close to JC Penny, across the hall from Foot Locker. The entrance to the store is through door #5, where men can find an array of suits, hats, and accessories.

Black Garnet Bookstore is Renaissance is located at Malocated at 1319 University Avplewood Mall at 3001 White enue West in Saint Paul. For Bear Ave. in St. Paul. For more more information, call (651) Renaissance owner Marques information visit www.facebook. 641-7515, or go to www.black- Dionne Sims Armstrong com/reclaimingswag/, or call garnetbooks.com. Photo by Chris Juhn 612-886-4218. Photo by Chris Juhn

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Arts & Culture

December 28, 2023 - January 3, 2024

7

Top 10 films of 2023 By Dwight Brown As 2023 ends, this year’s best films are vying for awards that will crescendo with the Oscar race. Film fans don’t have to watch from the sidelines. They can join the fun and view them all in theaters, VOD or on streaming services. Below are the best and the brightest of the year. 10 Best Feature Films 2023 The Color Purple (***1/2) Steven Spielberg adapted a version of Alice’s Walker’s classic novel in 1985 and caused a rift. Women found their voice in the lead character. Black men were portrayed as devils. This modern version, based on the Broadway musical, is a new and much welcomed interpretation by screenwriters Marsha Norman and Marcus Gardley. Director Blitz Bazawule aces the song and dance routines, pulls stellar performances from the cast, and gives this new spin on a tale about two separated sisters verve. Fantasia Barrino’s captivating performance is superb. A surprising triumph.

Eileen (Thomasin McKenzie), a small town, young Bostonarea woman, works as a secretary in a boys’ prison. The day a blonde bombshell psychologist (Anne Hathaway) walks into the building, she’s smitten and led astray down a path of self-destruction. Credit novelist/screenwriter Ottessa Moshfegh and coscreenwriter Luke Goebel for spinning this twisted, flabbergasting tale. Director William Oldroyd (Lady MacBeth) delivers shocking ensuing drama so hot that it heats up the placid winter snow scenes. Flamin’ Hot (***1/2) Sometimes a film’s greatest accomplishment is that warmhearted feeling you take away from a story you couldn’t fathom. Richard Montañez (Jessie Garcia), a janitor at Frito Lay, turns the munchy food industry on its ears by climbing the corporate ladder and creating a snack that appeals to his Latino community, and the world. Controversy followed this bio/ film due to an embellished resume. But put this story in the narrative nonfiction category and the sting of exaggeration fades while pure joy prevails.

Eileen (****) She didn’t see it coming. John Wick: Chapter 4 (****)

directing never loses its enThe best action film of the 1920s Oklahoma. Can’t deny Past Lives (****) year features Hollywood’s the film’s artistry or fine acting. Creating three-character ergy. Lovely. most laconic actor in an iconic movies is a tough assignment. role surrounded by friends Maestro (***1/2 But somehow Korean-born A Thousand and One (****) who are foes and foes who Who knew that the guy who writer/director Celine Song Black urban dramas have could be friends. John Wick clowned his way through the manages to do that in the most long been stained by dehu(Keanu Reeves), a bad*ss hired “Hangover” franchise was an simple, graceful and roman- manizing tropes and stereokiller, works under the man- artiste? Now everyone does. tic way. As kids back in Seoul, types. Somehow, first-time dates of a clandestine coun- Bradley Cooper, as director, South Korea, Na Young and filmmaker A.V. Rockwell steers cil, The High Table. He’s done writer, producer and actor, Hae Sung were kindred spir- clear of that quicksand, which them wrong, and they send as- brings the story of famed New its. Life separated them. She is a credit to her creativity and sassins to hunt him and snuff York symphony conductor/ (Greta Lee), as an adult, lives in social consciousness. When him out. Mindboggling stunts composer Leonard Bernstein New York, is a writer, and goes her central character (Teyana are brilliantly shot by cinema- to life in shades and tones not by the name Nora. He (Teo Yoo), Taylor) kidnaps her son from seen in a film before. Brilliant- smitten and forlorn, tracks her NYC’s social welfare system tographer Dan Lausten. ly acted by Cooper and Carey down. He’s so enraptured he and tries to raise him on her Killers of the Flower Moon (***) Mulligan as his long-suffering pursues the now-married old own, her plight and journey To appreciate this western but always loving wife. 2023’s friend endlessly. Luckily her become a riveting experience classic, first you must address definitive art film. husband (John Magaro) is pa- that shatters the way films tell the elephant in the room. Why tient as the two sort out their tales about those living under in the 21st century is anyone Oppenheimer (***1/2) feelings. Song’s script is never constant stress. Rockwell tells stories like a shaman impartmaking films about the NaQuantum physics and a race less than poetic. ing wisdom. Brilliant on every tive American experience that against the Nazis motivated level. is not told from their point of J. Robert Oppenheimer to be Rye Lane (****) view or with them as the lead the big man on campus. This “If Love Actually” and “Love protagonists? If you want to retelling of the development Jones” had a child, this would Honorable mention films: learn something about Ameri- of the ultimate, war-ending be it. Dom (David Jonsson), a Air, All of Us Strangers, Barbie, ca’s Indigenous people, check weapon—the atom bomb—is 20something, is ugly crying in The Blackening, Blue Beetle, out the enlightening docu- spellbinding. Its cryptic sub- a toilet stall in the unisex bath- The Burial, Chevalier, Creed mentary “Lakota Nation vs ject matter is made discern- room of a bar in South London. III, Guy Ritchie’s The Covenant, United States.” ible by genius writer/director Yas (Vivian Oparah) overhears Equalizer 3, Fair Play, Flora and Still, this masterwork by Christopher Nolan. He pulls the wailing. Fate pulls them Son, The Holdovers, Joy Ride, veteran filmmaker Martin out all the visual stops as he together as they discuss their Missing, Mutt, Passages, SaltScorsese is an engaging crime/ catalogs government intrigue, exes while on an afternoon burn, Somewhere in Queens, thriller. It’s based on a bestsell- rivalries among scientists, and jaunt. First-time director Raine and Talk to Me. ing, narrative nonfiction book the hangers-on who were part Allen-Miller creates the wittithat’s centered around the of that fateful day in Nevada est, coolest, and most contemDwight Brown is a film critic murders of wealthy members when a flash of light and pow- porary rom/com in ages. Her for DwightBrownInk.com and of the Osage Nation back in er changed everything. breezy, moment-to-moment NNPA News Wire.

The year in jazz: My Top 10 favorites By Robin James Contributing Writer It’s the end of the year, and what a year it has been. To recap, there have been several amazing album releases from outstanding artists throughout the year. Some have even earned Grammy Award nominations, so we’ll see how things turn out come February. What were the best jazz albums of 2023? Here’s a quick top 10 overview of albums, which appeared in previous James on Jazz columns this year. Check them out. 1. Brian Blade, “King’s Highway” (Stoner Hill Records) 2. Louis Hayes, “Exactly Right” (Savant Records) 3. Eric Alexander, “A New Beginning-Alto Saxophone with Strings” (HighNote) 4. John Coltrane and Eric Dolphy, “Evenings at the Village Gate: John Coltrane with Eric Dolphy” (Impulse) 5. Nina Simone, “You’ve Got to Learn” (Verve Records) 6. Wynton Marsalis, “Wynton Marsalis Plays Louis Armstrong (Blue Engine Records)”

“Compton’s Finest” (Savant); as 7. Ron Blake, “Mistaken special original holiday compoMost Added: Gregory Tardy; Identity” (7Ten33 Productions) sition from guest vocalist Ashas Biggest Mover: Isaiah J. 8. Fred Hersh and Esper- ley Pezzotti—she sang “SnowThompson; as Most Reported: anza Spalding, “Alive at The bird” and her powerful vocals Emmet Cohen; as Highest DeVillage Vanguard” (Palmetto packed a big punch. Records) Other highlights included but: Stacey Kent; more at jazz9. Kenny Barron, “The Marcus Printup’s arrangement week.com. Source” (Artwork) of “Little Drummer Boy” with Wrapping up the year at 10. Joey Alexander, “Contin- drummer Obed Calvaire along Crooners in Fridley on Decemuance” (Mack Avenue Records) with his arrangement of “Go ber 28 from 6:30-8 pm will be This time of year also brings Tell It On The Mountain” with Stablemates with Bruce Henry what has become a holiday a stunning solo from trombonin the Dunsmore Jazz Room. tradition—Jazz at Lincoln ist Chris Crenshaw, and Ted He’s an internationally known Center with Wynton Marsalis Nash’s arrangement of “Oh vocalist, composer and storyon tour and in New York City Holy Night” featuring Pezzotti. teller. For more information, with Big Band Holidays perPrintup served as musical visit www.croonersmn.com. Looking forward to 2024: formances. After being on tour director for the evening and Blue Note Records has anin the U.S., they brought their did a fine job. His trumpet music back to their home—The playing was remarkable, too. nounced the release of One gift I will buy myself House of Swing in New York “nublues” from vibraphonist for Christmas is the new book, City on December 13-17. Joel Ross featuring his band “Becoming Ella Fitzgerald: The Good Vibes out February 9. Jazz Singer Who Transformed We can also expect “CompasAmerican Song” by Judith Tick, sion,” a new album from pianist which was originally published Vijay Iyer on ECM Records, out on December 5, 2023. February 2. According to the New York Actor Mahershala Ali told Times, Tick “chronicles the actress Julia Roberts that you slights and insults Fitzgerald can dance to jazz in the excelfaced as a Black woman on lent new Netflix movie “Leave tour, especially in the South. the World Behind.” This is my During the civil rights era, wish for everyone next year— some wished Fitzgerald had celebrated the influential pia- ber 9,1932. His output from to listen to more live and rebeen more outspoken. She nist and featured music from 1958-1976 revealed his devel- corded jazz and dance. felt she spoke more clearly his rare discography. He was opment from stellar hard bop Have a Happy New Year evborn 100 years ago this June. trumpeter to pioneer of R&B/ erybody! through her work.” This year was also marked Hope died at the age of 43 in Funk fusion. The live stream on JazzLive Earlier this month, Jazzon December 13 showcased by an Elmo Hope centennial 1967. Robin James welcomes readTrumpeter Donald Byrd was Week radio chart reported er responses to jamesonjazz@ soulful musical arrangements celebration. The radio proof holiday classics and even a gram “Jazz Night in America” born in Detroit on Decem- as No.1: Brandon Sanders, spokesman-recorder.com.

“There have been several amazing album releases from outstanding artists throughout the year.”

8 December 28, 2023 - January 3, 2024

Opinion

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‘Common Ground’ is a Testament to the Power of Film to Change Hearts and Minds

By Ben Jealous

Soil. It’s where our food comes from and the foundation of all life on land. The way human beings have traditionally farmed in the modern era devastates the soil. It impacts the quality of the food that people and farmed animals eat, and thus our collective health. It’s not sustainable, vastly reducing the amount of farmable land available to us and our ability to continue to feed the planet. There’s a solution, one that we need to consider carefully, that offers a path towards sustainability and environmental health. It’s called regenerative farming. The recent documentary film “Common Ground” provides a groundbreaking look into this critically important crisis and how we can fix it with regenerative farming. Normally when I’m asked to watch the latest “environmental documentary,” I admit to being susceptible to that mild sense of dread we all get when we’re about to be presented with the problems of the world further solidified before our eyes. But “Common Ground” is anything but bleak. To the contrary, it offers desperately needed hope raises of up to 160 percent, as at a time when environmental well as greater retirement se- degradation, the climate crisis, curity and union protections the extinction crisis, and threats for those working on electric to our natural resources are drivvehicles. ing cynicism among even the When workers are able to most optimistic. organize, bargain collectively, “Common Ground” explores and go on strike when nec- how, as Gabe Brown, a Bismarck, essary, the benefits are felt North Dakota, regenerative especially in communities of rancher featured in film, puts it, color. Unionization has been the current dominant system of an economic lifeline for gen- industrial agriculture “is working erations of Black people, in the to kill things,” while regenerative public as well as the private sector. My father was a bus driver in the city of Cleveland, and while we sure weren’t rich when I was growing up, his union wages and benefits meant that we could have a By Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. decent life. Unions are a force for racial Earlier this year the U.S. Deequity. While there are still partment of Education sent all colmajor pay and wealth gaps be- leges and universities across the tween Black and White work- nation a notice reminding them ers, they would be much larger that they need to comply with the if not for unions. And in 2022, newly updated cybersecurity regmedian earnings for Black ulations published by the Federal union members were more Trade Commission (FTC). than 20 percent higher than The regulations—which infor Black workers who don’t clude specifications such as imbelong to a union. plementing critical controls for No wonder African Ameri- information security programs, cans are more likely to be maintaining oversight of service union members and more like- providers, and designating an ly to support unions than the individual to oversee a school’s population at large. So, as we cybersecurity infrastructure— look at strategies for growing came in response to an uptick in the labor movement, organiz- ransomware attacks on schools ing Black workers must be a around the United States. top priority. While these regulations are Workers of all races are certainly warranted in an age feeling empowered and em- where personal data is becomboldened, claiming their seat ing increasingly vulnerable to at the table and inspired to cyber-criminals, the penalties take collective action. And for failing to comply with the strong public support is the regulations—especially the withwind at our back. Recent poll- holding of federal needs-based ing demonstrates that unions funding under Title IV—pose an enjoy sky-high approval rat- existential threat to schools opings, particularly among young erating under tight budgets. people. Growing numbers Take Historically Black Collegof people want unions to be es and Universities (HBCUs) that stronger and believe they are have throughout their existence good for the economy. struggled to find the substantial As we close out 2023, and funding that many state and look ahead to a new year, the private predominantly White challenge for those of us in the institutions (PWIs) of higher labor movement is to build on education enjoy are already this momentum. We must con- steeling themselves to deal with tinue standing up to the boss an expected surge of applicants and organizing new workers. following the Supreme Court’s We must continue bargaining regressive decision to effectively good contracts and electing end Affirmative Action admispro-worker allies. We must sion programs. continue, every day, to talk The loss of Title IV funding about and demonstrate the would drastically affect around power of the union difference. 80 percent of the student bodies at HBCUs and would have a Lee Saunders is president negative impact on the future of of the American Federation of these vital institutions of higher State, County and Municipal education. Endowments at HBEmployees (AFSCME). CUs pale in comparison to those

Union Momentum is Strong Heading into 2024 By Lee Saunders

That’s what happened in the standoff between the city When working people of San Jose, California and the stand together, raise their Municipal Employees’ Federavoices and show their power, tion–AFSCME Local 101 this they win. That’s the lesson of summer. Similarly, the Team2023, a year in which work- sters were prepared to walk off ers boldly asserted their rights the job at UPS but ultimately and refused to accept less didn’t have to, using the lethan their fair share of the verage of a 97 percent strike value they create. authorization vote to land a Through October, nearly historic contract. 500,000 workers had taken the courageous step of going on strike this year, three times the number that did during the first 10 months of 2022. And almost 900,000 union workers have won pay hikes of at least 10 percent over the last year. AFSCME affiliates across the country have been a part of this wave of strike activity. From workers in Yamhill County, Oregon, to employees in the Morgan County, Ohio, school district, AFSCME members withheld their labor until their employer afforded them the respect they deserve. This is happening across the Perhaps the year’s highesteconomy from health care to profile worker action came hospitality. Writers, actors and from the United Auto Workother workers in the entertain- ers. In an unprecedented gamment industry hung together bit, the union went on strike for months until they finally against all of the Big Three got a better deal from their automakers—Ford, General employers. Sometimes, just Motors and Stellantis—at the the threat of a strike forces same time. UAW now has conmanagement to soften and tracts with all three compacede to workers’ demands. nies that include life-changing

As we look at strategies for growing the labor movement, organizing Black workers must be a top priority.

submissions@spokesman-recorder.com

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submissions@spokesman-recorder.com.

agriculture “works in harmony and synchrony with nature, with life.” The status quo system of industrial agriculture abuses and degrades our soil with tillage, synthetic substances, monocultures—that is, the cultivation of just one crop in a given area—and not sequestering carbon. Regenerative agriculture, in short, doesn’t rely on these things. In contrast, it relies on methods that protect the soil and offers a sustainable, healthy alternative.

by studying nature, Carver taught an entire generation of Black farmers how to farm in harmony with nature, like the indigenous peoples of America. “Common Ground” also strikes an important chord in addressing climate. Healthy soil has the potential to sequester tremendous quantities of CO2. From large farms to urban gardens, the caretaking of soil can produce more profitable and more nutritious food and help mitigate the climate crisis. Common Ground’s celebrity “The one thing narrators open the film by passthat’s keeping ing on reflections in the form of a letter to current and future genus all alive is erations. One of them, Woody that soil you’re Harrelson, mentions that what standing on.” viewers are about to receive are “hard truths.” I couldn’t help but Even before today’s high-tech think of Al Gore’s “An Inconveagribusiness, industrial farming nient Truth,” which was instrumethods used by small and large mental in sounding the alarm and farmers alike were causing dev- raising global awareness about astation to our topsoil. Brown climate change. The impact and influence of points out that the Dust Bowl of the 1930s wasn’t caused by “An Inconvenient Truth” got an drought alone but by “copious important cultural boost when the film won the Academy Award amounts of tillage.” “Common Ground” uses histori- for Best Documentary Feature of cal examples in its storytelling that, 2006. It would benefit all of us for as a lifelong student of history, I “Common Ground” to gain similar love. One highlight is a newly told recognition (for the Academy’s account of the revolutionary agri- and America’s consideration). To borrow a phrase from cultural genius George Washington Carver (told by Leah Penniman, Woody Harrelson, “The one thing herself a farmer and author of the that’s keeping us all alive is that soil you’re standing on.” Let’s get book “Farming While Black”). While Carver is known in his- hopeful again about environmentory books as “the peanut guy,” he tal solutions (including soil). Let’s was far more. Carver understood work to find our common ground. that to take farmers out of poverty, you had to build healthy soil. Ben Jealous is executive director Peanuts, it turns out, put nitrogen of the Sierra Club, the nation’s larginto the soil. Using peanuts and est and most influential grassroots various techniques he developed environmental organization.

Supporting HBCU’s Sustainability in America at the U.S.’s top-ranked colleges and universities, with the overall endowments at all the country’s HBCUs accounting for less than a tenth of Harvard’s. The gap in funding between PWIs and HBCUs isn’t just because of smaller endowments, it’s also because state lawmakers keep funds from HBCUs. In North Carolina, for example, legislators awarded North Carolina State an extra $79 million for research while North Carolina A&T—the nation’s largest HBCU—was given only $9.5 million. When it comes to access to technology, HBCUs also face an uphill battle with 82 percent of HBCUs being located in socalled “broadband deserts.”

community and are willing to lend their hands—and their dollars—to support them. The Student Freedom Initiative (SFI), a nonprofit chaired by philanthropist and entrepreneur Robert F. Smith and funded by major tech companies like Cisco, has raised millions of dollars to help HBUs comply with the Education Department’s mandates. Cisco alone donated $150 million to the SFI with $100 million allocated to bringing HBCU cybersecurity system upgrades and $50 million going to establish an endowment to offer alternative student loans. With $89 million already distributed to 42 HBCUs across the nation, the initiative has already saved around $1.5 billion in needs-based funding to these colleges and universities and is The loss of Title IV funding making strong inroads to helping would drastically affect these institutions meet the new around 80 percent of the cybersecurity regulations. But student bodies at HBCUs more is required if all HBCUs are and would have a negative to be saved. impact on the future of Given the empowering imthese vital institutions of pact HBCUs have on the nahigher education. tion’s Black community and the future promise of a more incluDespite their struggles with sive America, it is imperative that funding, and the fact that these more companies support the schools constitute only three work the Student Freedom Inipercent of four-year colleges in tiative is doing to ensure these the country, HBCU graduates vital higher education schools account for 80 percent of all can continue to educate and inBlack judges, 50 percent of Black spire future generations. lawyers, 50 percent of Black We in the National Assodoctors, 40 percent of Black ciation for Equal Opportunity members of Congress, and our in Higher Education (NAFEO) country’s current vice president. https://www.nafeonation.org/ HBCUs truly know how to do stand in strong support of the more with less, but they cannot Student Freedom Initiative. We be saddled with costly regula- all should work together to entions that pose an existential sure the sustainability of HBCUs crisis to their ability to operate in America. and be given no help to deflect some of the costs. Fortunately, Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. is however, there are businesses chairman of NAFEO and president and individuals who see the im- and CEO of the National Newspaportance of HBCUs to the Black per Publishers Association (NNPA).

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9

St. Paul Public Library offers free youth programs during winter break The St. Paul Public Library (SPPL) is offering space for free hands-on events for kids and teens ages 7-18 during the winter break. In collaboration with organizations like Badwolf Adventure Studio, Children’s Theatre Company, COMPAS Arts, Now Make Art, and The Loft Literary Center, the library is launching a series of engaging programs at various library locations. “Winter break is a great time for kids, teens and families to visit the library,” said Kelsey Johnon-Kaiser, SPPL’s youth and family services manager. “We have lots of free, handson activities to spark fun, excitement and creativity around theater, writing, watercolor, and even Pokémon.”

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WINTER BREAK EVENTS: Writing Great College Application Essays for ages 1618: Aspiring college students learn basic creative writing elements such as strong characterization, compelling narrative structure, and an interesting premise to write the best possible college application essay. Presented by The Loft Literary Center. • December 27, 3-4:30 p.m. at Sun Ray, 2105 Wilson Ave. • January 2, 6:30-8 p.m. at Dayton’s Bluff, 645 E. 7th St.

DIY Slime for ages 7-12: Kids make their own slime to bring home. • January 4, 4-5 p.m. at Hayden Heights Library, 1456 White Bear Avenue Information provided by SPPL. For more information, visit sppl.org/winter-break.

Pokémon party for ages 7-12: Celebrate all things Pokémon with crafts and activities like making a Poké Ball, Pokémon keychain, Pikachu wallet, and more. • December 27, 2-4 p.m. at West 7th Library, 265 Oneida St. • December 28, 4-5 p.m. at Hayden Heights Library, 1456 White Bear Ave. • December 30, 11 a.m.-Noon at George Latimer Central Library, 90 4th St. W. • January 4, 2-3 p.m. at Merriam Park Library, 1831 Marshall Ave. • January 6, 2-4 p.m. at Dayton’s Bluff Library, 645 7th St. E. Theatrical makeup design for ages 13-18: In this threeday workshop, teens learn the illusion of theatrical makeup techniques to transform the actor. Presented by Children’s Theatre Company. Call 651-266-7400 to register. • December 27, 28 & 29 from 3-5 p.m. at Rondo Library, 461 Dale Street N. Dungeons & Dragons for ages 7-12: Kids learn to build a character and play D&D during these workshops. Presented by Badwolf Adventure Studio. All experience levels welcome. • January 2, 3, 4 from 2-4 p.m. at Arlington Hills Library, 1200 Payne Ave. • January 5, 6, 7 from 3-5 p.m. at Rondo Library, 461 Dale St. N. Color X Chalk Creations for ages 7-12: Kids create custom colors by blending multiple chalk colors on paper. Each unique color creation gets a name and is added to a hanging color collection mural. Presented by Now. Make. Art. • January 3, 3-5 p.m. at Sun Ray Library, 2105 Wilson Ave. • January 7, 2-4 p.m. at Highland Park Library, 1974 Ford Pkwy. Theater props and crafts for ages 13-18: Teens use found, recycled, and unusual objects to create props that will be used in the Children’s Theatre Company’s upcoming “Alice in Wonderland” theater production. This three-day workshop is presented by Children’s Theatre Company. • January 3, 4, 5 from 3-5 p.m. at George Latimer Central Library, 90 4th St. W. Clay Play for ages 13-18: Teens learn the tools and techniques of working with clay including sgraffito, inlay, and underglaze techniques. Completed creations will be fired and available to pick up afterwards. Presented by COMPAS. • January 3, 4-6 p.m. at Highland Park Library, 1974 Ford Parkway Watercolor Painting for ages 7-12: Kids learn how to paint with watercolors to create a landscape, bird painting, or any natureinspired work. Explore basic painting techniques including brushwork and color mixing. Presented by COMPAS Arts. • January 4, 2-4 p.m. at Riverview Library, 1 George Street E. • January 6, 3-5 p.m. at Rice Street Library, 1011 Rice Street

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10 December 28, 2023 - January 3, 2024

Bulletin

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Are you prepared for winter weather??

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Although the winter season kicked off with a whimper, at some point the temps are bound to plummet. FEMA Region 5 wants to ensure that families across the Upper Midwest identify and reduce the weather risks they face in the months ahead. FEMA’s #WinterReady campaign provides easy, low-cost tips to stay warm and healthy at home and travel safely when severe cold or winter storms threaten. “Though it’s been a relatively mild start to the colder months, we can’t be complacent to winter dangers.” said FEMA Region 5 Regional Administrator Tom Sivak. “Plan now. Know the risks where you are and en-

• If you must go outsure each member of your family knows how to protect side, cover all exposed parts themselves against all of the of the body. Wear layered threats that winter can bring.” clothing, a hat, and mittens, which are warmer than gloves. Wear boots or shoes Storms and severe cold: with rubber soles for the best individual safety • In case of a power traction. Use handrails when loss, ensure electronics are navigating outdoor stairs. • Don’t use a gas stove or fully charged and know where to find your flashlight oven to heat your home, and if you use a generator, do and extra batteries. • Verify warming cen- so only outdoors and away ters in your area before the from windows. • Learn the signs of and weather turns and know where you can go in case basic treatments for frostyour home loses power. bite and hypothermia. For • Stay indoors as much more information, visit: bit. as possible. If the roads are ly/HypothermiaWinter. icy and you must drive, stay • Build an emergency well behind the car in front supply kit for your car: first of you as it takes longer to aid kit, jumper cables, full fully stop on icy roads. tank of gas, cell phone and

cell phone charger, shovel, ice scraper, snow brush, sand/cat litter, warm clothing & blanket, water and snacks, tire chains, tow rope and flares. Winter storms and severe cold: protection at home • Prepare your home to keep out the cold with insulation, caulking, and weather stripping. Close the doors of rooms you are not using. Close the vents, shut the doors in these rooms, and keep the basement door closed. Place a rolled towel at the bottom of all doors to keep drafts out. • You may be eligible for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program

(bit.ly/HypothermiaWinter), which can help you pay your heating bills or get emergency services during an energy crisis. For home improvements that save money on energy, you may qualify for help through the Weatherization Assistance Program (https://bit.ly/WeatherizationAssist). • Clear rain gutters and cut away tree branches that could fall on your home during high winter winds. • Insulate pipes and allow faucets to drip a little during cold weather. Make sure that there is warm air circulating in any area where there are water pipes. Learn how to shut off water valves in case a pipe bursts.

• About 30 percent of a home’s heating energy is lost through its windows. Keep window coverings like blinds or curtains open during the day to take advantage of the sun’s heat in the winter—especially windows that get direct sunlight. • Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups. Learn even more about how to prepare for extreme cold and severe winter weather at www.ready.gov/winterready#power. Information provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

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Department/MN The Alliiance, Minneapolis, MN. Spokesman-Recorder Req. PhD in design, design research, or rel. fld., & Bach. or Masters in Architecture & 2 612-827-4021 yrs. exp. as design researcher, PHONE: architect, designer, or rel. occ. in environmental design research. Req. 2 yrs. exp. w/each of the following: Lead & conduct FOR BILLING research studies; Utilize Qualitrics, Excel & PowerPoint; INQUIRIES Conduct stat. analysis w/SPSS or PowerBI. Exp. may be & TEARSHEETS gained while pursuing degree. Position may allow for hybrid PL E A S E C O N TAC T work. Apply at careers@alliiance.us and https://alliiance.us/ AC C O U N T I N G D E P T careers No agencies or phone calls.

Sealed bids will be received by the Public Housing Agency of the City of Saint Paul at 200 East Arch Street, St. Paul, MN 55130 for MCDONOUGH HOMES 7 UNIT TOWNHOME DEVELOPMENT, Contract No. 24-115 until 2:00 PM, Local Time, on February 8, 2024, at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud via the Zoom App. Bids may be submitted electronically, in a pdf format, to Northstar Imaging, www.northstarplanroom.com, or may be delivered to the address above.

Sealed bids will be received by the Public Housing Agency of the City of Saint Paul at 200 East Arch Street, St. Paul, MN 55130 for DUNEDIN TERRACE 4 PHONE: 612-827-4021 UNIT TOWNHOME DEVELOPMENT, Contract No. 24-112 until 2:00 PM, Local Time, on February 6, 2024, at which time they will be publicly opened FOR and read aloud via the Zoom App.BILLING Bids may be submitted electronically, in a pdf format, to Northstar Imaging, www.northstarplanroom.com, or may be delivered INQUIRIES to the address above. & TEARSHEETS

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COACH MAC

“Even with kids that don’t go to college, we make sure Continued from page 12 we help them get a wellpaying job or help them get that the school administra- into a vocational training tors showed patience as he program. We have a menbuilt the Cleveland Heights toring program tied into our football program—it is not high school football program always about winning, he as well as a tutoring program.” stressed. “A lot of the kids Asked if he foresees play because it’s a ticket to himself pursuing a college maybe changing their life or coaching job someday, Stebeing able to go to college phens said, “My philosophy for free,” said Stephens. is to continue working hard

at what I’m doing and never to be outworked at what I’m doing.” He even suggested that he may find himself coming back to Minnesota. “I’ve always loved it up there. Who knows, maybe someday I’ll be coaching there.” Charles Hallman welcomes reader comments at challman@ spokesman-recorder.com.

SOE

cal therapist. “It’s been nice.”

PREP

Ellis-Milan graduated, led Central to the 2007 Class AAAA title with a 32-0 record before embarking on a Hall of Fame career at Marquette University. Buford, who was a freshman starter during Ellis-Milan’s senior year and a junior during Robinson’s final season, led the Minutemen to the 2008 Class AAAA crown her senior year and was an outstanding player for the Golden Gophers. While all three were outstanding prep and college players, they have gone on

win over High Point. And against Auburn, she had a Continued from page 12 15-point, 11-rebound effort. High scorers Wisconsin sophomore Norfolk State junior forI think it could be better. It’s a ward Kierra Wheeler (Minne- guard Ronnie Porter (St. Paul) great character sport where apolis) last week was named snatched nine rebounds along it’s not about talent as much as the Mid-Eastern Athletic with seven assists, four steals about work ethic [and] discipline. Your newspaper hasOffenagreedand to 12 participate theBadMinn points, one in of five Conference (MEAC) “I would really recommend these ads of inthe theWeek. mainThe news yourinnewspap sive Player gerssection in doubleoffigures a win wrestling to anyone,” said Blanc. per). At times, advertisers mayEastern request a specific Robbinsdale Cooper grad av- over Illinois last week.sect “I wouldn’t change it for the each Adswith may need to be decreased/incr eragednewspaper. a double-double world,” said Hulverson, who is Please doand not14 billrebounds for these ads. If you have welcomes questions, 24 points Charles Hallman studying kinesiology with a ca- for the week—33 points and reader comments at challman@ reer goal of becoming a physi- 17 rebounds in an overtime spokesman-recorder.com.

Continued from page 12

Coach Mac Stephens and his Cleveland Heights team

connection, which adds to the school’s legacy. The legacy began in 2005, Ellis-Milan’s senior year, when she led the Minutemen to a third-place Class AAAA finish in the state tournament before moving on to an outstanding collegiate career at the University of Minnesota. Robinson, who transferred from St. Paul Johnson, following her sophomore year, as

to make significant contributions as adults. Ellis-Milan is the head girls basketball coach at East Ridge High School. Robinson leads the girls team at Tartan High School, while Buford, who led Robbinsdale Cooper to the Class AAA state championship in 2018, currently serves as director of Alumni Relations/NIL at the University of Minnesota. Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald welcomes reader comments at mcdeezy05@gmail.com.

12 December 28, 2023 - January 3, 2024

Sports

Ohio high school coach played for Gophers, Vikings By Charles Hallman Sports Columnist ac Stephens got a full football scholarship at Minnesota back in the mid-1980s. He went undrafted but played two NFL seasons for three teams including the Vikings. Eventually Stephens found his calling as a high school football coach. “I’m operating in my Godgiven purpose to be able to affect these young people that are 14, 15, 16, 17-year-olds. It is a pretty awesome opportunity,” said Stephens in a recent phone interview. Stephens played his college ball at Minnesota (1986-89), then went on to New England and the New York Jets (1990) as an undrafted rookie, and finally with the Vikings in 1991. He eventually went into public service in Ohio before Cleveland Heights (Ohio) High School hired him as their football coach in 2015.

Coach Mac Stephens

tinued Stephens. “The original head coach had resigned. I applied for the job and got passed over, and decided to apply for the Cleveland Heights job. I think I was one of 56 applicants at the time and was for“We had a great tunate enough to be named season and we had a the next head coach.” great group of kids, Stephens has just comwho probably made pleted his ninth season and me look better.” is now in preparation for his tenth next year. “My first year Former Gophers position we played with 38 kids on the coach Dick Bedell first planted roster. We have about 115 the idea of Stephen someday kids every summer, but it took coaching, he recalled. “He some time to build that,” the helped shape me as a man, head coach admitted. Although his Cleveland ([and I] just always admired him for the way he poured into Heights team fell short of a me during those times at the state championship this year, Stephens was named All-Ohio University of Minnesota.” Later, “I was an assistant Division I Coach of the Year. “We had a great season and coach here at a high school in the city in which I live,” con- we had a great group of kids

spokesman-recorder.com

Wrestling is more about work than talent

benson Blanc is one of 13 Black head coaches in Division I wrestling. Quincy Hulverson is the only Black wrestler for the Gophers this season—one of 667 Black wrestlers nationwide, eight percent of all Division I wrestlers. A couple weeks ago, we spoke to both Blanc and Hulverson in separate interviews at the Minnesota-North Dakota State University dual meet at Maturi Pavilion on December 10. After four seasons, the last two as associate HC, Blanc is the Bisons head coach. Prior to coming to Fargo, he spent five years as a North Carolina Quincy Hulverson Submitted photos State assistant coach. “It is the sport that really who probably made me look gave me a lot of opportunities, “high energy” as a kid. “They better,” says Stephens. “We helped me strive for higher ex- wanted to throw me into a have a great assistant coach- pectations and opportunities,” sport that took all that energy ing staff, so it all came to- HC Blanc said. out, and made me calm down gether and some good things a little bit,” he recalled. “One happened. “Wrestling forces of my youth coaches made me “I coach in a very old-school fall in love with the sport.” you to be so way,” he explained. “We beBlanc, who wrestled in coldisciplined. lieve in playing very physical. lege at Lock Haven and OklaThat really But I think the biggest thing is homa State, made the NCAAs our kids have a lot of fun and four straight years and comprepares you they play with a lot of class,” he for life.” pointed out. Cleveland Heights, located Hulverson, a 125-pounder about 20 minutes outside of Cleveland, plays in one of the from Tea, South Dakota, is a state’s toughest high school redshirt freshman this season conferences. “We weren’t at Minnesota. He made his there nine years ago when I collegiate debut in 2022-23. first took over the program, The wrestler said he has been but now we’re one of the top able to make weight thus far. “I’m kind of small for 125,” teams” in Ohio, Stephens said noted the Gopher. proudly. According to his folks, as Obenson Blanc Stephens also appreciates a youngster Hulverson was Photo by Charles Hallman ■ See COACH MAC on page 11

Outgoing Hamline President Miller will be back to watch the games

Second of two parts ontrary to some reports, she wasn’t forced out of her job, according to Hamline President Dr. Fayneese Miller. However, it did appear that way after she announced her intention to retire in April, a couple months after a no-confidence vote by the school’s faculty. Instead Miller is leaving on her own terms, according to the outgoing president, taking a sabbatical before she officially retires in June of next year. She wanted to set the record straight during our recent Hamline President Dr. Fayneese Miller and Hamline Head sit-down interview. Photo by Charles Hallman Miller was widely criticized Football Coach Chip Taylor after a campus controversy over the showing of images of look at what happened to [Pres- trying to do our job and caring the Prophet Muhammad in an ident] Claudine Gay at Harvard. about the people whose lives art history class. The instruchave been entrusted to us.” tor was dismissed, but later “What sports does is, After an impromptu digresbrought back. it allows me to take a sion, Miller was glad to return “Faculty hire and fire facto our original topic—sports. “I deep breath. I could ulty. Not me,” said Miller. “The just love sports,” said Miller. say it’s my escape.” world is out there thinking “My son and my husband are I fired someone. That is the big [New York] Knicks fans. So, false story.” “I look at what happened to of course I love the Knicks too. She said that diversity on the immediate past president But I go to the Timberwolves campus as well as free speech of Temple. I could go on and on games,” she said, adding that now seem under attack. “I look and on about those of us who she is a Lynx season ticketholder. at what happened to me as a get criticized in ways that oth- “But I would say what I love most president here at Hamline. I ers did not or do not simply for is watching my students play.

Courtesy of Minnesota Athletics piled a 118-41 career record with 25 pins. “I think wrestling forces you to be so disciplined,” he said. “That really prepares you for life.” Armed with a bachelor’s in sports administration from Lock Haven in 2008, and a master’s in international business from Oklahoma State in 2010, Blanc started coaching in 2013. “I thought maybe I’d go into business,” he said, “but I enjoyed development and helping people grow, and it gives me a sense of purpose. I enjoy what I do.” Both Blanc and Hulverson understand that seeing wrestlers and wrestling coaches that look like them is not what it could be. “There’s good numbers,” said the coach. “But ■ See SOE on page 11

Coaches, former players taking lead versity of Minnesota women’s basketball team. As the Golden Gophers starting point guard, the sophomore scored 15 points with four assists and two steals in leading them to a 60-58 victory over the Purdue University Boilermakers in their Big Ten conference opener. In leading Minnesota to an 11-1 start to the season, Battle is averaging 9.9 points and seven assists per game. This week’s column is about two boys basketball coaches leading their teams, a former History: Milan, Robinson, Bugirls basketball star leading the ford making a difference Former St. Paul Central girls state’s top Division I program, basketball greats Ashley Ellisand three graduates from one Milan, Angel Robinson and of the state’s top high school Kiara Buford have a definite girls basketball programs who ■ See PREP on page 11 have gone on to leadership positions.

“I would say that’s the hardest thing for me leaving behind is the students. Not just my student-athletes,” she pointed out. “I called them my scholar-athletes most of the time because they’re really good students. They make this place special. I see them as giving life to the institution with what they bring to our campus. “I see them taking on challenges that many of us don’t take on anymore. Whether it’s speaking up for what’s right, [and] doing those kinds of things. I see them pushing us to be better than we currently are. So I’m going to miss that about the students.” As an unabashed sports fan, attending games in-person has served her well over the years, Thursday, December 20: Howespecially during her time as ell, Edwards lead teams Hamline president, she said. High school basketball “What sports does is, it al- coaches Scott Howell (St. Paul lows me to take a deep breath. Central Minutemen) and DarI could say it’s my escape. I can ren Edwards (South St. Paul) just be one of the crowd and saw their teams compete in the just watch the game. Cheer like Hutton Winter Classic at Hama fan, but do it the right way.” line University. Although Miller soon will be Behind the outstanding play leaving campus, she stressed of senior point guard Elonzo that she won’t completely go Simmons, the Packers jumped away. “I don’t want to get in out to an early lead before sethe way of the acting presi- niors James Kennedy and Vondent,” said Miller. “I’ve told te Lewis hit some clutch shots, the football team I’ll be back and junior Allan Lankfard Jr. to watch the games. I’ll come provided the floor leadership back to watch some of the that propelled the Minutemen other teams play the games. to a 72-68 overtime victory. “But these are my kids, these are my babies. I’m going to Sunday, December 10: Battle miss them.” St. Paul Central guard Vonte leads Gophers Former Hopkins High Lewis (13) at Hamline UniverCharles Hallman welcomes School girls basketball stand- sity Tuesday, December 20 reader comments at challman@ out Amaya Battle has emerged Photo by Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald spokesman-recorder.com.oes as a team leader for the Uni-