December 29, 2022 - MN Spokesman-Recorder

he year 2022 started on a tragic note for the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder (MSR) with the untimely passing of beloved community editor and activist Mel Reeves on January 6. His pen, passion, and trusty bullhorn are sorely missed.

With the help of the community, the MSR soldiered on and reached great heights this year as Publisher/CEO Tracey Williams-Dillard was recognized as one of AARP’s “50 Over 50” for the MSR’s health coverage during the pandemic, as well as Sister Spokesman, a monthly networking event series for women that made a successful return this year after a hiatus due to the pandemic.

Likewise, longtime sportswriter Charles Hallman was awarded many times over, including a Hall of Fame induction by the U.S. Basketball Writers Association, for his continued coverage of women’s and local sports and his steadfast commitment to coaching youth sports.

Also, the MSR was selected, along with 14 other Black and Latino news outlets across the nation, to take part in the Google News Initiative, which helped advance advertising strategies and grow digital revenue. Another high point was the completion of the MSR mural on the 38th Street side of the building which was reimagined by the gifted hands of the collective Creatives After Curfew.

Relatively speaking, the year seemed a bit calmer in the Twin Cities as communities continued to reemerge from the fog of Covid and adapt to a landscape forever changed in its wake.

The aftermath of George Floyd’s murder continued with the federal and state sentences of the former Minneapolis police officers charged with his killing. Fatal police shootings continued, however, and no such charges were filed in the February police shooting of Amir Locke during a no-knock raid, nor in the fatal shooting of Tekle Sundberg during a stand-off with police in July, to name a few.

The continued fallout from Floyd’s murder could also be seen in the changing landscape of police structure and leadership as both St. Paul and Minneapolis ushered in new police chiefs. Minneapolis also welcomed its first public safety commissioner.

In sports, the MN Vikings hired its first Black general manager in Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, and Minneapolis served as host to the Women’s NCAA Final Four tournament.

In June, Minneapolis honored its favorite son Prince Rogers Nelson with a block party to celebrate the completion

Mel Reeves

Tracey Williams-Dillard and Charles Hallman

Photo by Paige Elliott

MSR mural

Photo by Paige Elliott

A protest for Amir Locke

Photo by H. Jiahong Pan

Vikings GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah MN Vikings Hennepin County Sheriff-elect Dawanna Witt

Photo by Travis Lee

Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson MGN

Abortion protests took center stage this year. MGN

Mayor Carter (l) with SPPD Chief Axel Henry

Photo by H. Jiahong Pan

Mayor Frey (l) with MPD Chief Brian O’Hara City of Minneapolis

(l-r) Senators-elect Zaynab Mohamed, Clare Oumou Verbeten, Erin Maye Quade

(l-r) Tou Thao, Thomas Lane, and J. Alexander Kueng

WNBA star Brittney Griner

MGN The Prince mural

Photo by Steve Floyd

Metro

The year in local police killings

By Charles Hallman Contributing Writer

In the year 2022, we witnessed again two more local killings of Black people at the hands of police. Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman last week announced that no charges will be filed against the officer or officers involved in the shooting death of Tekle Sundberg last July after a long standoff at his Minneapolis apartment building.

Earlier this year no charges

were filed in the police shooting death of 23-year-old Amir Locke inside a downtown Minneapolis apartment in the early morning hours after a no-knock search warrant was used.

Both incidents, however, highlighted this year, legally speaking. MSR legal expert and law professor Angi Porter last week offered her Afrocentric analysis as well as a look toward the upcoming new year.

A former local discrimina-

tion investigator and vicepresident of the Minnesota Association of Black Lawyers, Porter now teaches torte, higher education law, and Africana legal studies at American University Washington College of Law in Washington, D.C. where she joined the faculty this school year.

“I think that is a huge tragedy,” she said of the Locke killing. “He should be alive today, and somebody should have been held responsible and nobody has. Like most

people, I was taken aback when no criminal charges were brought against anyone who was involved in the killing.

“It just didn’t make sense. There are people who will tell you how it made legal sense. I am not of that variety.”

As a seasoned lawyer, Porter spent several years as a litigator at Dorsey & Whitney law firm and once clerked for U.S. District Court Judge Michael Davis. She understands the legal process and how it

can be frustrating, especially when it involves a Black person killed by police.

“The fact is that there was no attempt to redress that killing…and I don’t know what the motivation was [for not filing criminal charges],” continued Porter.

The law professor did highlight some successes in the courtroom this year, such as the three former Minneapolis police officers charged and found guilty of violating George Floyd’s civil rights.

Floyd was killed in 2020.

“I think people start to see just how long the criminal process can take… Unfortunately it is just part of the legal lifespan of the case,” explained Porter. “That was a big lesson for the George Floyd-related proceedings this year.”

But like many Blacks, she admitted she is bothered by how law enforcement still protects its own when it comes to civilian shootings, and even more so when it comes to shooting Black people: “We know that it’s neverending.”

She strongly suggested that the public remain ever vigilant “where officers who participate in the murder [of a Black person] now have to protect the narrative and the legacy. Check the talk about these incidents. As soon as we have the truth to come out of these trials—and sometimes it comes, sometimes it doesn’t.

“Now we have a full frontal assault on the truth,” she said.

Outgoing Hennepin County attorney reflects on six terms

By Charles Hallman Contributing Writer

After spending nearly a third of his adult life in public service, first as a Minnesota state legislator, then in a total of six terms in two separate stints as Hennepin County attorney, Mike Freeman will retire in January.

Sitting recently in his office, Freeman told the MSR, “I’ve been thinking a lot about this. It’s bittersweet for me. I love this job. I’m just not a spring chicken anymore. And there’s also time for a fresh face and some newness, and I want to go out on my terms.”

Freeman was first elected as county attorney from 1991-1999, then ran again for the post in 2006 and was reelected in 2007. He oversees a 400-plus staff, including nearly 200 attorneys in the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office (HCAO). During his tenure, Freeman has advocated for refining marijuana laws, more studies to better understand racial disparities, and helping domestic violence victims, among other things.

However, Freeman also is known for several high-profile police shootings of Blacks, several of which never produced any charges. This put him in the crosshairs of activists and critics who cried racism, resulting in a divide between his office and the Black community.

In his September 2021 released statement announcing he will not seek reelection in 2022, Freeman listed accomplishments he is proud of, but offered some regrets as well.

He noted his deep disappointment that no charges have yet been filed against whoever shot and killed threeyear-old Terrell Mayes in December 2011, or in the killing of six-year-old Aniya Allen and critical wounding of 10-yearold Ladavionne Garrett, Jr. in 2021. “Our efforts must never cease to stop this senseless killing of children,” he stressed.

But Freeman, during our nearly one-hour interview, discussed at length his reason for why the HCAO didn’t charge the Minneapolis police officers involved in the killing of Jamar Clark. The 24-year-old Clark was fatally shot on the city’s Northside in 2015, and its aftermath led to nearly a month’s occupation outside the Fourth Precinct station in protest.

“One of the toughest decisions I made,” he admitted of the issue he believed led many Blacks to distrust him and his office. “On those police shooting cases,” he explained, “the question is, ‘Did the police commit a criminal act?’”

The Clark killing “was a very hard decision. But it wasn’t criminal,” Freeman contended. “And a lot of people distrusted me for that. I said that’s one of the cases I really regret because it did help to poison relationships with some people in the Black community, and that wasn’t good for everyone.

“I don’t think that decision was wrong,” Freeman continued, “but the decision has to be viewed in [light of] did they commit a criminal act, and I think the answer is no.”

state’s first Black AG. “It was an honor to work with Keith. He’s a very interesting man. He knows criminal justice and he knows trials, and he’s a very decent human being. I am honored with my partnership with Keith.”

nella Frazier, who filmed city police officers killing Floyd.

“That’s the first case that I’m aware of in Minnesota that a police officer in the line of duty has been charged with manslaughter for disregarding public safety and driving their car in a chase,” he noted. “I think it’s justified. My only disappointment is that [the trial] is supposed to go to trial in November and now it’s been put off until April [of next year] because the defense attorney is not available.”

Freeman continued, “One of the things I’m most proud about is when I arrived here, there were three or four lawyers of color. “Today 30% is BIPOC. We’ve hired lots of Blacks, Native Americans and Latinos. I’m pleased with that.

initiatives: HEALS 2.0, a publicprivate partnership started in January 2022 that brought together members of the local faith community, business leaders, law enforcement, and others to address the increase in carjackings and violent crime; and Operation Endeavor, led by Dr. Cedric Alexander, the city’s first community public safety commissioner. That initiative has an HCAO senior attorney embedded to help law enforcement in clearing cases, bringing better cases for prosecution, and helping reduce complaints against law enforcement.

“The cases [the Minneapolis police] were giving us weren’t as good as they used to be,’ said Freeman, briefly explaining the reason for HEALS 2.0. “The principle really is pretty basic. It’s partnerships—cops can’t do it by themselves or cops and prosecutors can’t do it by themselves. We need the community… We need some of the unique strengths in this area.”

On Operation Endeavor, “Cedric Alexander is a real thing. I think Alexander is go-

ing to help with public safety,” Freeman said.

Mary Moriarty will assume the Hennepin County top attorney’s job in January. She is a former county chief public defender and defeated former Hennepin County judge Martha Holton Dimick.

Moriarty will inherit a “really, really good public law office,” Freeman stressed. “They’re committed to justice… We made mistakes, including me, but we acknowledge those mistakes.

“Each county attorney has policy decisions that they need to make,” he said of Moriarty. “She needs to recognize [that], and I think she does.”

Finally, after a half-century of public work, the 74-yearold Freeman said of retirement, “I’m not going to make a commitment to do anything, particularly until after Labor Day.”

Look for an interview with the newly elected Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty in the upcoming editions of the MSR.

Fast forward several years later when Freeman’s office teamed up with Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison to successfully prosecute former Minneapolis Officer Derek Chauvin for killing George Floyd in 2020.

“I asked him to join with me,” Freeman said of Ellison, the

Freeman also pointed out with pride that HCAO charged a police officer for killing a

chasing a carjacked vehicle. Frazier was the uncle of Dar-

“We can never do enough” in improving diversity in HCAO, added the retiring county attorney. “The communities [are] entitled to have the constituency. This office [should] reflect our community, and when you got 30%, you’re getting there.”

Freeman also is proud of two

The Clark decision did help to poison relationships with some people in the Black community, and that wasn’t good for everyone.

Mike Freeman

Photo by Charles Hallman

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

“There are people who will tell you how it made legal sense.

I am not of that variety.”

Angi Porter

photo

Metro

Looking out for moms

Women in need get special holiday pampering in St. Paul

By Sheletta Brundidge Contributing Writer

Dozens of women around the Twin Cities were dressed to impress this holiday thanks to a pop-up event held in St Paul. “Moms need a little loving,” said Marsha D. Carter, the organizer of the event. “Not to slight children, but they are always thought of this time of year. We can give to children by supporting their mothers.”

pants and leggings—they shopped head to toe.”

Connecting with several nonprofits that identified underserved women, Carter created a festive atmosphere. She treated them to a hot meal, complete with chicken, beans, rice, mac and cheese, peach cobbler and pound cake. While the moms worked with 15 volunteers who helped them pull together their outfits, the kids who accompanied them en-

can give to children by supporting their mothers.

On Dec. 18, Carter, founder of the nonprofit Beyond the Dance Network, invited close to 75 women who are unhoused or living in transitional settings to a makeshift store that had no price tags or cash registers. The women had the opportunity to “shop” the racks of donated new and gently used clothes and pick an outfit, complete with coats and shoes.

“We provide fashion, comfort and warmth; we have it all,” said Carter. “High-end clothes, sweaters, down vests, sweat

joyed the food and a coloring book station just for them.

Carter said she was motivated to stage the pop-up because she wants to “lighten the load” carried by a group of women who are often overlooked. “Moms will give anything extra to their kids. They sacrifice so much. But selfcare is important,” said Carter, who works as a hairstylist.

“I came from a single-parent home, the youngest of five children. My mom raised us to the best of her ability, but it

Community health workers make inroads in MN

By Mike Moen

It’s been three years since Covid-19 cases first surfaced.

While doctors and nurses have treated those patients, community health workers continued to elevate their role in Minnesota to make sure other health needs were met.

McKinney, she and her colleagues serve as a bridge between patients and the healthcare system. She noted that she often helps those who have experienced homelessness, or who have trouble accessing medication.

From reminding them about their appointments to helping with transportation, these workers want to ensure marginalized patients can navigate the healthcare maze more easily. “I know I’m successful when a patient does not need me anymore,” said McKinney, “and that should be the goal.”

Shawn McKinney is a community health worker in South Minneapolis. According to

of a mural dedicated to the late artist in downtown Minneapolis. Also, on June 7, what would have been the legend’s 64th birthday, First Avenue North (between 7th and 8th Streets) was formally rechristened “Prince Rogers Nelson Way.”

There were many pivotal moments nationally, as Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson became the first Black woman Supreme Court Justice. Elsewhere, the January 6th Committee hearings seemed to surprise pundits by capturing the public’s attention while unmasking the players—especially the former president’s involvement—in the Capitol insurrection.

Minnesota became a haven for abortion seekers following the conservative Supreme Court’s stunning overturning of Roe vs. Wade.

McKinney recently became a board member of the American Heart Association of Minnesota. In that role, she said she wants to bring a face to community health workers so that the public—as well as decision-makers,

get a better sense of their contributions.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics says that there are more than one thousand commu-

nity

said during the pandemic, these workers have played a crucial role in helping certain community health centers work with patients to

was a struggle. When she was able to get some help, things got better for us.”

Carter was moved by the gratitude expressed by the attendees and said that she felt “so much joy” while staging the event.

“The price of food and clothing has escalated. My motivation is to just help,” Carter said. “Some people were born into tough situations; others get down on their luck and need a hand. I know someday these people will be in a position when they can help too and give back and keep it going.”

Two more clothing giveaways are planned in the coming months. A pop-up store offering women’s clothing is scheduled for Jan. 21. Another event on Feb. 18 will provide clothing to men. Both popups will be held from 1-4 pm at 713 Minnehaha East, Suite 217 in St. Paul, the office space for the Beyond the Dance Network.

Carter welcomes clothing donations or funds. She can be reached at beyondthedancenetwork@gmail.com.

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

their blood pressure.

He said efforts through telehealth have paid off in trying to reduce cardiovascular risks. “There’s a piece missing thereof follow-up,” said Bell, “and then being able to contract with community health workers was what allowed them to cause that gap to close.”

Bell said having McKinney on their board hopefully will lead to more opportunities to find health solutions at the community level.

Minnesota is the first state with a wide-ranging competency-based community health worker educational program offered in post-secondary schools. The curriculum is currently being used in five other states.

Subsequently, voters seem to recoil at the idea of the re versal of long-held rights and freedoms, and the predicted Republican “red wave” during the midterm elections result ed in little more than a trickle.

Nationally, Democrats kept the Senate and lost far fewer House seats than expected.

And Minnesota joined Maryland, Massachusetts, and Michigan in voting for full Democratic control of the Legislature—the

first time in the state since 2014.

Oumou Verbeten became the first Black women ever elected to the Minnesota Senate. Also, Hennepin County elected its first Black sheriff with Dawanna Witt defeating contender Joseph Banks.

In December, WNBA star Brittany Griner was freed in a

prisoner swap after spending 294 days in Russian custody for possessing less than a gram of cannabis oil.

The year ended on a dramatic note as Winter Storm Elliott brought blistering cold weather across the nation that altered holiday plans and made for an unforgettable Christmas weekend.

Though this year was challenging, we thank all the contributors, readers, advertis -

We

Marsha D. Carter (bottom, right) with a family at the pop-up

Submitted photo

health workers employed in Minnesota.

The American Heart Association’s Vice President for Health Strategies Justin Bell

reduce

Mike Moen writes for the Minnesota News Connection.

MNC

I know I’m successful when a patient does not need me anymore.

By Sean J. Ennevor, MD

We are well into winter, but contrary to what many have been told about the dangers of cold exposure, there is little scientific support that the cold directly depresses immune function and makes us sick. What may be occurring during the cold winter months is a vitamin D decrease due to fewer daylight hours and less time spent outside. People with low vitamin D levels tend to have increased rates of infections.

Colder weather also makes people less active, which decreases their blood circulation. Increased circulation, such as seen during exercise, may mobilize specialized cells within our immune system. These cells are used for fighting infection, but when we have little physical movement they are not delivered to all parts of the body.

Furthermore, movement may also increase body temperature, which could slow virus replication as viruses are known to replicate faster in cold conditions.

Viral strains

Is cold weather bad for our immunity?

Most people are familiar with the common cold caused by the virus class known as rhinoviruses. There are at least 150 variations of the rhinovirus, and these variations are known as strains. Strains are essentially the same virus, but with some slight changes to the virus makeup.

There are over 200 different viruses that can be spread from person to person and many cause cold and flu symptoms. Influenza, the cause of seasonal flu typically seen from October through April here in North America, is an example. Another is the Sars-Cov-2 virus that causes COVID and its related symptoms. Both kinds of viruses can transform into new strains, which sadly can make us quite sick.

Cold dry air

The cold dry air during winter allows viruses to spread more easily since our mucous membranes dry out and are not as effective in blocking the viruses from entering our bodies. Unfortunately, the decreases in temperature and humidity seen during winter may also allow viruses to replicate faster.

People in warm weather climates without dramatic temperature or humidity decreases may have more cases of flu during the rainy season. This is likely due to more time being spent indoors around others.

Close contacts

Greater time around others, particularly indoors, increases the risk of virus exposure. This is due to increased person-to-person contact, which exposes one to more viruscontaining respiratory droplets in the air and on surfaces.

Cold exposure therapy

While cold weather may introduce physiologic stressors and a triggered immune response, cold exposure can also trigger a beneficial cascade of immune cells and beneficial neurotransmitter effects. The overall result can have a positive impact on the body over time.

The benefits of cold exposure include:

1. Reduced inflammation: Short exposure to the cold can reduce the inflammatory responses that trigger

damaging blood enzymes and neurotransmitters. Exercise creates an inflammatory response by breaking down muscle fibers that rebuild over time and cause eventual muscle growth.

If you use cold therapy a day or two after exercise, the

from our lungs and noses.

The benefits of cold exposure can be obtained from super cold dry air at -200F to 260F, cold showers, or any cold water exposure done over a few minutes.

2. Better brain function: Brain function and mood may be boosted by the release of norepinephrine, the neurotransmitter involved in focusing attention and mood. Low levels of norepinephrine can lead to depression or ADHD.

skin, is an insulator to trap heat, but large amounts of white fat increase the risks of heart disease and stroke. The beneficial caloric increase of brown fat activation burns calories, which decreases the overall amount of white fat.

What can one do to stay healthy?

• Humidify the air taken in during dryer days.

• Generate internal heat by exercising regularly.

• Wash hands with alcoholbased products to kill viruses.

• Consider masking when around others if an outbreak is known.

• Eat nutritious foods whenever able.

• Get adequate sleep to lower stress hormones.

• Lastly, do get vaccinated against the viruses. We have vaccines that aid one’s immune response.

immune response from the cold may reduce muscle discomfort. Also, the increased respiratory rate and larger breaths from exercise may flush out viruses and bacteria

3. Fat loss: Fat loss, from an increase in burned calories, occurs when brown fat activation is triggered by cold exposure. Triggering is done to generate heat, which allows for better body functions.

Brown fat is found around our organs, and its presence is increased by exercise. White fat, typically found under the

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

Health insurance

that fits my budget? I’m covered.

Movement may also increase body temperature, which could slow virus replication.

Business

Improving your financial health in the new year and beyond

Whether you love or hate the tradition of making New Year resolutions, studies show that one of the most popular resolutions is healthier living— followed closely by setting financial goals.

These two resolutions are also interdependent, as 72% of people report experiencing money-related stress at least some of the time. That means financial wellness is proving to be more vital to overall health and happiness than ever.

It’s also a fact that only a small percentage of people who make resolutions actually keep them.

Luckily, Chylon Pappas, vice

president of marketing at First Tech Federal Credit Union, has tips and savings tricks to get you started on the path to improving your overall financial health in 2023 and beyond.

Make a plan

Mapping out your financial goals is the first step. This will serve as a guide you can reference and fine-tune. Investing, saving for retirement, and reviewing spending habits regularly can seem daunting, but there are a few ways to make the process less overwhelming:

• Conduct research and educate yourself to make more informed decisions.

• When it comes to investing, start small.

• Exhaust all available employer options, such as an employer-sponsored retirement plan, Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Health Savings Account (HSA), etc.

“Financial priorities tend to shift and change in different life stages, whether it’s

sending your child to school or planning your retirement. The key is setting long-term goals and not letting yourself get discouraged by shortterm changes along the way,” explains Pappas.

Become a SMART shopper

Another tip for reducing spending is to stick to a budget. Pappas recommends setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals, which lead to better budgeting and allow you to adjust it as needed.

For example, eating at home and being mindful of “entertainment” expenses, such as dining out or tickets to sporting events, can help eliminate unnecessary spending. Being a savvy shopper also makes all the difference. This means planning, writing things down, and avoiding tempting impulses in store or online purchases.

Whether it’s spending less on groceries, entertainment, or cutting costs associated with other household needs, the key to success is holding yourself accountable to your

specific goal. One way to do this is to work with a friend or family member so they can help keep you focused and on track to turn your goals into reality.

Flex your savings muscles

Planning and budgeting may automatically strengthen savings, but you don’t have to cut off all your spending to save. There are ways you can boost savings and still have room to “treat yourself,” all while keeping a cushion for those rainy days. Pappas suggests:

• Gradually increasing your savings by 1% each year.

• Following the 50/30/20 rule by allocating 50% of your monthly income towards bills and non-negotiables, and 30% towards savings, leaving 20% to fulfill wants.

• Utilizing multiple savings

accounts to support specific needs using the 50/30/20 rule.

• Using a credit card that deposits cash back.

Becoming financially healthier Many people are reluctant to talk about money, but real change only happens when

you take a close look and rethink your current habits. Get a running start by planning, and you may soon be well on your way to improving your financial wellness and reaping the rewards of your efforts.

NAPS.

In banking and business, relationships matter more than ever. Talk to a Bremer banker today. Understanding is everything.

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that make bigger things possible.

© 2022 Bremer Financial Corporation. All rights reserved. Bremer and Bremer Bank are registered service marks of Bremer Financial Corporation.

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The key is setting longterm goals and not letting yourself get discouraged by short-term changes along the way.

Improving your financial wellness can be less stressful with a bit of planning. Courtesy of NAPS

By Dwight Brown

Call it a comeback! In 2022, the movie industry roared back with high-quality films, stellar performances, and great artistry. For the record, movie theaters aren’t dead yet, and streaming is a part of the equation but not the whole picture.

These noteworthy films and artists will vie for awards in weeks to come. Check out the best in cinema in 2022. Enjoy.

find the most compelling way to respect the demise of the first Black Panther and eulogize Chadwick Boseman. Both their souls live on in this ingenious and beautiful (cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw) sequel that invites Mesoamerican warriors into the mix. Angel Bassett owns the screen. Tenoch Huerta Mejía introduces a dynamic element. And Letitia Wright holds it down as the legend of the African king becomes an immortal spirit.

“Avatar: The Way of Water” (****)

A human-turned-avatar and his family flee from an elite team of soldiers. They find refuge in an ocean-bound territory among amazing sea creatures. Writer/director James Cameron and his tech crew have taken the art of fantasy film to a new level. Nothing you’ve screened previously— not even the first Avatar—can prepare you for the images you will see, the journey you’ll take, and the feelings that will envelop you. The most visually astounding film of the year.

“The Banshees of Inisherin” (****)

Best friends in an isolated village on a small Irish isle go through a rough patch. Colm (Brendan Gleeson) decides Pádraic (Colin Farrell) is dumb and beneath him. Colm: “I just don’t like you anymore!” Things go awry, escalating into an abusive, emotional psychological war. Writer/director Martin McDonagh magically crafts a toxic bromance for the ages. Layered, perceptive, simple, and oafish.

It’s a bitter tale that heads down an increasingly macabre path. Farrell’s vulnerability breaks hearts. Gleeson’s relentless vitriol shocks. Kerry Condon as Pádraic’s concerned sister and Barry Keoghan as the court jester and son of an abusive father add to the excellent ensemble acting. Evocative cinematography and a gorgeous score make this a spellbinding men-gonewrong fable.

“A Jazzman’s Blues” (***1/2)

Tyler Perry tucked away his light comedy sensibility to create a serious work of art. Two young, star-crossed lovers (Joshua Boone, Solea Pfeiffer) in the deep South try to weather all the complications of racism. But can’t. Perry takes this fated notion to the highest level with a complex and melancholic script that is complimented by exquisite music, art direction, production design, costumes, and cinematography. Adult romantic melodramas don’t get much better than this. No wrinkles. No mistakes. Perry the consummate auteur? Who knew?

“She Said” (***1/2)

The #MeToo movement and its ramifications are on view in this powerful feminist ode. Screenwriter Rebecca Lenkiewiz and the very astute director Maria Shrader retrace the steps New York Times journalists Jodie Kantor (Zoe

“Till” (****)

The very savvy director Chinonye Chukwu and brilliant co-writers Michael Reilly and Keith Beauchamp have respectfully turned the tragic death of Emmett Till into a galvanizing story of courage. The era and places are meticulously recreated. The most gruesome aspects of the incident are wisely recollected off-camera. It’s a choice only filmmakers with the greatest sensitivity for the subject, family, and viewers would make. Till’s murder sparked a new era in the Civil Rights Movement and stirring performances by Danielle Deadwyler as Mami and Jalyn Hall, as her sweet son, keep that history alive.

“Top Gun: Maverick” (***/12)

Tom Cruise single-handedly carries the weight of this gigantic action/drama. As a top naval aviator pushing 60 years old, his character Maverick trains the next generation of fighter pilots, and it isn’t easy.

Director Joseph Kosinski’s (TRON: Legacy) and cinematographer Claudio Miranda’s (Life of Pi) make the footage’s daring aerial displays stunning. A multi-ethnic young cast breathes new life into a 30-year-old premise. Miles Teller, Monica Babaro, Manny Jacinto Raymond Lee, and Jay Ellis (Insecure) shine. Fun to look at, always entertaining, and often exhilarating.

“The Whale” (****)

Sometimes a small set, a few actors and a tiny character study are all you need to make a big statement. That’s the case with this intense look at a man battling depression and weight issues. Playwright Samuel D. Hunter wrote the stage play and screenplay. Director

Darren Aronofsky transforms the script into a gripping personal drama. Actor Brendan Fraser wears the lead character’s misery and vulnerability on his sleeve. Supporting cast of Sadie Sink, Hong Chau, Ty Simpkins, and Samantha Morton surround Fraser and the lead character with love, anger, fear and hope in a fine collaborative effort. Dark and haunting. Quite excellent.

“The Woman King” (***/2) They once were warriors. From the 1600s to1800s, in West Africa, the mighty women of the Agojie militia protected their empire. A highly creative team of female producers, a masterful

Davis heads a cast that battles. Well-shot and choreographed action sequences impress. The raw emotion and determination on view are enough to make you stand up and cheer. Bold and joyful.

“Women Talking “(****)

Women talking about what needs to be fixed becomes an astounding stream of thought for 1h 44m in this consciousness-raising allegory. Wives and mothers in a remote Mennonite community discover they’ve been abused and act on those findings. Canadian writer/director Sarah Polley guides a co-op of brilliant actors who spill their characters’ hearts out as they contemplate a remedy. Superb acting and dialogue so rich in context you hang on every word. Gorgeous B&W cinematography (Luc Montpellier) with hints of color. A parable for our times.

Dwight Brown is an NNPA News Wire film critic. Find more of his work at DwightBrownInk.com.

Panther: Wakanda

Kazan) and Megan Twohey (Carey Mulligan) took to investigate Harvey Weinstein allegations. It’s a journey of discovery that’s consistently

awe-inspiring. The reporters help witnesses and victims of Weinstein’s sexual abuse coalesce and make damaging public accusations. Taut editing and powerful acting. A thriller, a cautionary tale, and a day of reckoning for one of the movie industry’s biggest bullies.

storyteller (screenwriter Dana Stevens) and a gifted director Gina Prince-Blythewood bring that tale of bravery to a 21st-century audience. Viola

“Avatar: The Way of Water”

20th Century Studios

“A Jazzman’s Blues”

Netflix

“Till”

MGM Studios

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Brittney Griner and the U.S. State

By Margaret Kimberly

Brittney Griner’s ordeal in Russia is over. But she has been secreted away for “reintegration” and the U.S. continues its own brand of international hostage-taking.

WNBA player Brittney Griner was arrested in Moscow on February 17, 2022, exactly one week before the Russian government began what it called its Special Military Operation in Ukraine. Griner was returning home from playing in Russia during the off-season and was carrying CBD oil in her luggage.

While legal in much of the United States, any marijuana formulation is illegal in the Russian Federation. She was finally released on December 8, 2022, in a prisoner swap for Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout.

The terms of the exchange seemed unequal to many people who wondered why a man dubbed the “merchant of death” was allowed to go free in exchange for an athlete. Bout was an arms dealer flying a fleet of more than 60 Sovietera cargo planes in the 1990s and early 2000s from one hotspot to another, including Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sierra Leone, and Afghanistan. His companies even did business with the U.S. in Iraq after the 2003 invasion, flying material into Baghdad.

Yet Bout somehow ran afoul of his erstwhile business partners and he was arrested in Bangkok, Thailand in 2008

after U.S. agents targeted him in a sting operation. They claimed to be Colombian rebels looking to kill Americans and Bout took the bait. After three years of pressuring Thailand to violate its own laws, the U.S. succeeded in extraditing him in 2011. He was convicted of terrorism charges in 2012 and sentenced to 25 years in prison.

The “merchant of death” moniker was an overstatement meant to make the case for a kidnapping. After all, the U.S. has the world’s biggest defense budget and uses coups, sanctions, invasions, and proxy wars to get what it wants.

proposed to swap him for Bout, but the Trump administration wasn’t interested. Neither was the Biden team disposed to do a swap. But all that changed with Griner’s arrest.

Her arrest put Whelan and Bout back in the news. From the beginning, Russia proposed swapping Griner for Bout. The Biden administration wanted to include Whelan in the deal but the Russians played hardball and eventually got what they wanted. Bout and Griner are now back in their respective countries. Bout is moving about freely, and even giving interviews. Griner is in what is called a “reintegration” facility at an army base in San Antonio, Texas.

U.S. defense contractors are the biggest arms sellers in the world. The merchant of death nickname could be accurately ascribed to every American president and to their military contractors such as Blackwater, later called Xe, and now known as Constellis.

Regardless of the name, it is a company of mercenaries operating under U.S. auspices.

Bout was stuck in an American prison with no hope of getting out until Russia arrested American Paul Whelan in Moscow in 2018. Whelan is a court-martialed former marine who was involved in murky business dealings in Russia.

From the moment he was arrested the Russian government

There are predictable criticisms that a basketball player was swapped for an arms dealer and racist claims that the deal was based on “wokeness” because Griner is Black and gay. The more important issue is that an innocent woman found herself in the crosshairs of a foreign government, a U.S. kidnapping, and now her continued inability to be a free person.

Bout is not alone in being snatched up by the hegemon. The U.S. renders people it labels as terrorists to Black sites, Guantanamo is still open, and Venezuelan diplomat Alex Saab was kidnapped and is in U.S. custody.

The U.S. came up with dubious legal rationales against Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou, using the Canadians to try to do to her what they did to Saab. Russia didn’t like the way its citizen Bout was treated, entrapped in a sting because he hadn’t broken any U.S. laws. A kidnapping was the only way for the U.S. to get its hands on him.

Griner ended up being freed because the Russians were angry about Bout’s imprisonment. Biden eventually agreed to Russia’s terms, staged a photo opportunity with her wife, and then whisked her off to an army base where she is being reeducated, or rather reintegrated.

Of course, Griner is said to “hate America” for saying that the national anthem should not be played before WNBA games. Her mild statement was followed by an apology of sorts, “I don’t mean that in any disrespect to our country. My dad was in Vietnam and a law officer for 30 years. I wanted to be a cop before basketball. I do have pride for my country.”

Her fence straddling did her no good and millions of White people are angry because Griner and other Black people exist at all.

By Ben Jealous

holiday

judges give us something to celebrate

I’ve written about the importance of judges a few times over the last year. Every time I do, I realize that many people have never met a judge. Or they have, but it was at a time when they’d rather have been anywhere else. So, the idea that judges are on my mind as something to celebrate this holiday season may strike you as strange. But bear with me.

Since President Biden came into office, he has made it a priority to nominate federal judges who are not only legal stars but are diverse, come from underrepresented professional backgrounds, and have a deep commitment to civil rights.

Many of them have been civil rights lawyers or public defenders. This is a real change, even from past Democratic presidents. For decades, presidents most often nominated corporate lawyers or prosecutors to the bench. Those people were also overwhelmingly white and male. Not anymore.

At the federal circuit level, which is the level above the district or trial courts and just below the Supreme Court, 41% of Biden’s nominees have been Black. So far, more Black women have been confirmed to the circuit court bench than during all previous presidencies combined.

At the district level, Biden has nominated people of color, LGBTQ+ people, and people of diverse faiths, who are historic “firsts” on their respective courts. Not only that, but we have our first Black woman on the Supreme Court, Ketanji Brown Jackson. Her presence inspires me every day, even though there are many reasons to be dissatisfied with the Court’s far-right majority.

Thanks to President Biden, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, and Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Dick Durbin, the pace of nominations and

confirmations has been fast— very fast. This was critical, because during the Trump presidency, the Far Right raced to confirm as many ultraconservative judges as possible.

President Biden is beating Trump’s pace with one of the fastest confirmation processes ever. As I write this, 97 lifetime federal judges have been confirmed in the first two years of Biden’s presidency. Trump had 85 in his first two years.

Biden’s pace is the second fastest in a quarter century.

The Biden administration is actively seeking out judicial nominees who will improve the quality of decision-making in our courts because of the lived experience they bring. It’s seeking people who have seen the justice system from all sides, in their work or in life. People who are committed to upholding rights for everyone, not just the wealthy or privileged. And already, decisions by fair-minded Biden nominees have improved justice for many Americans in areas like workers’ rights and the environment.

When we have fair judges and fair courts, our lives are dramatically better. Fair courts hold police officers accountable for brutality. Fair courts protect our right to vote and strike down laws aimed at voter suppression. Fair courts protect our jobs, our air and water, and our right to health care, including abortion care. The list goes on and on.

When the Senate returns in January, there will be a spectacular roster of nominees just waiting for the final step in their confirmation process: people like Nancy Abudu, an advocate for voting rights and civil rights through her work at the Southern Poverty Law Center and the ACLU; Natasha Merle, an advocate for racial justice at the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund; Tiffany Cartwright, a civil rights litigator whose cases include police misconduct; and Julie Rikelman, the longtime litigation director for the Center for Reproductive Rights.

So why does all this matter? It’s not just because having people from underrepresented communities on our courts is inspiring to see and long overdue. Both of those things are true. It’s because the nominations and confirmations represent the administration’s commitment to building fairer courts overall.

MAIL BAG

So, in addition to celebrating all the great new judges the Biden administration and Senate leadership have given us, there’s one more thing we can do. All of us can call our senators’ offices in January and encourage them to keep up to the momentum by confirming all the rest of the president’s judicial nominees. It’s an easy way to make a difference.

As I’m thinking of things to be thankful for this holiday season, I’m thankful that many of our federal courts really are changing for the better. So many of the rights and freedoms we’ve worked for in the past and will work for in the future depend on this progress. We need to keep it going.

Ben Jealous serves as president of People for the American Way and professor of the Practice at the University of Pennsylvania. A New York Times best-selling author, his next book “Never Forget Our People Were Always Free” will be published by Harper Collins in January 2023.

Rush City mired in sadism, should be closed

Rush City prison is mired in sadism, employees addicted to committing sadistic acts, administered to provide op-

They practice a lot of denial of resources at Rush City prison: denying fresh air, jobs, mental health care, fining inmates for bogus charges, while denying prisoners their money and isolating prisoners from the company of oth-

sadism, maybe because of the sadism/masochism connection. Being a victim of sadism does not automatically make the victim a masochist.

But with guards there mocking prisoners for not responding to them with violence, “not standing up” for themselves, the guards imply that. This is the relationship staff seeks: sadistic staff and masochistic inmates.

This is what the Buddha said about sadism: “Mired in sadism Back they fall.

portunities to inflict sadism. “Mental breakdowns happening left and right” while there’s “not one mental health worker.” This is deliberate. Enabling suicides: deliberate. How long has it been going on?

Hopefully, her reeducation/ reintegration will be of short duration and she can return home as soon as possible. She will still be Black though, and living in a country that hates her and also gives itself the right to imprison whomever

ers. This is what the State of Minnesota does. In Norway, inmates get released with degrees.

People use the word cruel. Its use in U.S. media is up, but hardly anyone uses the word

they want for whatever rationale they may need at any given moment.

The U.S. doesn’t bother reintegrating some of the two million people who manage to be freed from the mass incarceration system. Perhaps one

Bonds of lust are not as strong as attachment to sadism”

City prison needs to be closed.

—Constance Bonniwell

day Griner will shrug off the reintegration foisted upon her and talk about all the injustices created by this nation.

Margaret Kimberly is the executive editor and senior columnist of

In response to “Rush City prison promotes violence” By Alonzo Graham

Rush

This is the relationship staff seeks: sadistic staff and masochistic inmates.

Millions of White people are angry because Griner and other Black people exist at all.

Black Agenda Report.

This

season,

So far, more Black women have been confirmed to the circuit court bench than during all previous presidencies combined.

Cold weather tips and reminders

duce the risk of burns or fires.

The City of Minneapolis is reminding renters that they have a right to a warm home in the winter. From Oct. 1 to May 15, every rental unit must have heating facilities that are safe and effective.

Rental property owners are responsible for keeping the heat working, no matter who pays the heating bill. If the heat isn’t working, start by contacting the owner, manager, or maintenance person at your building. They should respond quickly to restore your heat. If the heat can’t be fixed right away, like if the furnace needs to be replaced, then the prop-

erty owner needs to provide temporary heating sources. If you don’t have space heaters, the property owner needs to provide two space heaters to each rental unit for as long as the heat isn’t working.

Who to call If the rental property own-

er or manager does not take immediate steps to restore heat, you can report it to the City and an inspector will respond to you on the same day. Call 311 or 612673-3000 to report no heat or low heat from 7 am to 7 pm on weekdays and 8 am to 4:30 pm on weekends.

Metro Transit’s minibusses a boon to commuters

By Sheletta Brundidge Contributing Writer

North Minneapolis resident Charles Hallman is well acquainted with public transportation. But now, in addition to boarding Metro Transit buses and light rail trains, he’s become a fan of the more personalized door-to-door rides available through Metro Transit micro.

Metro Transit micro is a new option that provides on-demand service. It uses minibusses to pick riders up and drop them off at an

gap for me.”

The bright blue and white minibusses can travel on city streets to make easy customized pickups at homes, churches, stores, businesses, and other transit route stops in North Minneapolis.

Riders can summon a Metro Transit minibus using the Metro Transit app similar to the way they connect with app-enabled ride-share services like Lyft and Uber—but at a far lower price.

Metro Transit micro

star ticket.

A fleet of five minibusses is available to the North Minneapolis service area so wait times are minimal, usually under 10 minutes. The minibusses are operating between 5 am and midnight.

“We wanted to focus on improving access to the existing transit system, especially to low-income and BIPOC communities who can benefit from service on demand,” said Victoria Dan, transit planner with Metro Transit.

Outside of 311 hours, call 911 to report low heat or no heat. The 311 agent or 911 dispatcher will take your contact information, and an inspector will contact you to set up an inspection as soon as possible.

Heater safety

• Do not use your stove or oven for temporary heat. It can cause a buildup of carbon monoxide in your home, which can be harmful or fatal. It’s also a burn hazard for kids and pets.

• You can use UL-approved space heaters to temporarily heat your home. “UL approved” means that the heater has been tested for safety to re-

• Don’t use more than two heaters at a time in each unit.

• Do not use extension cords or outlet adaptors.

• Never leave the space heater unattended.

• Keep it three feet away from curtains, furniture, or anything else that could catch fire easily.

• Never leave kids unsupervised around space heaters.

Cold weather rule

The cold weather rule is a state law that applies to all residential utility customers, whether they own or rent their homes. Utility companies cannot shut off your electric or natural gas service between Oct. 1 and April 30.

The utility company must offer you a payment plan that is reasonable for your household’s financial situation. If the bill is in your name, call the utility company if you need to set up a payment plan.

Get help making payments and winterizing Energy Assistance Programs can help families make utility payments and provide assistance in weatherizing their homes. For Minneapolis residents, the provider is the Community Action Partnership of Hennepin County at bit.ly/CAPEnergyAssistance.

exact destination within the North Minneapolis service area.

“I don’t have a car anymore, and this gives me a different level of service. I used it yesterday to pick up my prescription,” said Hallman, 67, a retired teacher and working writer. “I live a few blocks from the closest bus stop, and this closes a

rides cost the same as regular local bus fare, and transfers are free to regular buses and LRT. Riders can pay with cash, a Go-To Card, or the Metro Transit app. TAP cards and reduced-fare cards are also accepted. To transfer to an express bus or Northstar, you must purchase an additional express or North-

“Some people are using the microservice regularly, but others ride occasionally if they miss their bus or their car isn’t working. Some riders like it when they’re shopping and their arms are full of grocery bags,” she added.

Using a smartphone is not the only way to access Metro Transit micro. Hallman,

who said, “I’m not an app person,” prefers to book the Metro Transit minibus by making a phone call to 651-602-1170.

A pilot project, Metro Transit micro launched in September and will run for a year. Hallman hopes his fellow North Minneapolis residents will

take advantage of the option to demonstrate its value so the service will continue and maybe even expand.

“Especially in winter, walking to the bus isn’t always seniorfriendly. It’s not so easy to get backup when you fall in slippery weather,” he said. “This is

really handy.”

Download the free app on the App Store or Google Play. For more info, visit www.metrotransit.org/micro.

Sheletta Brundige welcomes reader responses to sbrundidge@ spokesman-recorder.com.

Source: The City of Minneapolis

Submitted photo

was both blessed and lucky at times, resourceful at others throughout this year, 2022—my 47th year as a journalist.

I got exclusive quotes from the likes of famed filmmaker, producer and lifelong New

2022 a busy year for this

sportswriter

ments that escaped mainstream media’s gaze, like the state’s only Black female college hockey player in her last collegiate season, and the children of fathers who once played college and pro ball. I attended my first fencing tournament and found several Black fencers in an otherwise White environment. Also found Black baseball and volleyball fans in our never-ending search for both.

York Knicks fan Spike Lee, who was a featured speaker at a crypto currency convention in downtown Minneapolis, and attorney Ben Crump inside a ballroom in Las Vegas. I worked the room in Springfield, Mass. at the Basketball Hall of Fame. I sat in the dugout at both Twin Cities baseball parks and talked to the respective Black players from the Twins and the Saints.

We reported on historic mo-

Minneapolis hosted the 2022 Women’s Final Four for the first time since 1995—it was my fourth-ever WBB event. I witnessed Dawn Staley become the first Black coach male or female to win two national basketball championships and got some stolen moments with her. I also got some stolen moments from the South Carolina band director, the only Black leader of the four school bands.

I connected with several members of the 1982 Cheyney State national runners-up team, which then and now is the only HBCU team that ever competed

for a national title. Deb Walker gave me a Cheyney State button because I spent time speaking to her and her mates.

By attending this summer in Vegas my first in-person NABJ convention since the pandemic, I ran into attorney Crump, got HOF Spencer Haywood to sign my copy of his autobiography, ■ See View on page 9

The week in review

Former prep stars shine in collegiate victories

Christmas Day belongs to basketball

he NBA first began playing games on Christmas in 1947. Over the years, great individual and team performances took place, and playing on Dec. 25 has become as much a tradition as football games played on Thanksgiving.

Before last Sunday’s five NBA Christmas Day telecasts on ESPN and ABC, Analysts Richard Jefferson and J.J. Redick answered ques-

tions about the annual tradition from reporters, including the MSR, on Zoom.

“I remember my second year in the league,” recalled Jefferson when asked by the MSR. “We got a rematch with the Boston Celtics after we played them in the Conference Finals. That was my first Christmas Day game.

“Playing on Christmas is a mark of significance, it’s a mark of validation, and it carries meaning,” added Redick. “You know it’s going to be nationally broadcast—you got excited to play.”

Both analysts are former NBAers. Jefferson is a 2001 first round draft pick who played in

Jefferson Courtesy of Twitter

the league (2001-2018). Redick also was drafted in the first round in 2006 and played from 2006 to 2021.

“You’ve got NFL on Thanksgiving…Normally Christmas Day is basketball as football is Thanksgiving,” said Jefferson.

■ See SOE on page 9

his past week was busy as prep stars contributed to victories for the University of Minnesota men’s and women’s basketball teams, a high school boys’ team gets its first victory of the season, and the Timberwolves set a team scoring record.

Thursday, December 22

Sophomore forward Dawson Garcia (Prior Lake), junior forward Jamison Battle (DeLaSalle), freshman forward Joshua OlaJoseph (Compass Prep/Osseo), and freshman guard Braden Carrington (Park Center) led the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers men’s basketball team, led by former player and head coach Ben Johnson (DeLaSalle), to a 58-55 nonconference victo-

ry over Chicago State University at Williams Arena.

Garcia led the way with 18 points, Battle added 14, Ola-Joseph seven points including a dunk, and Carrington chipped in six.

Sophomore guard Wesley Cardet Jr.’s 17 points and 16 from senior backcourt mate Elijah Weaver led the Cougars.

Thursday, December 22

Freshman guard Amaya Battle (Hopkins) scored six of her nine points in the final period, helping the University of Minnesota women’s basketball team to a 59-48 nonconference victory over Eastern Illinois University at Williams Arena.

Former St. Cloud Apollo star Lariah Washington, a senior guard averaging 20 points per

Tuesday, December 20

Guards Dhimani Tucker, Ka’Jon Jordan, Dewayne Givens, Jalani Mays, Michael Jett Jr. and Colin Moore Jr. helped St. Paul Johnson defeat St. Croix Prep 56-36 for the Governors’ first victory.

Monday, December 19

Guard Anthony Edwards scored 37 points, leading the Minnesota Timberwolves to a 150-126 NBA victory over the Chicago Bulls.

The Timberwolves set a record for most points in a game.

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

New ‘Dinkytown Marketplace’ helps Gopher athletes ‘monetize’ themselves

By Charles Hallman Sports Columnist

ince July 2021, Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) is how college players can monetize themselves. This is thanks to former UCLA basketball player Ed O’Bannon and 19 others who successfully sued the NCAA in the late 2000s for violating antitrust laws by not allowing athletes to share in revenues generated from use of their names and images on video games.

Thus far there is no federal NIL legislation. In other words, it can be likened to the Wild, Wild West for boosters and influencers. Furthermore, the NCAA has really been pretty cagey on NIL guidelines, leaving it up to the colleges and universities.

But this fall, the governing body introduced an interim NIL policy. It didn’t create any new rules, but supposedly this will help schools have a better idea on what types of deals student athletes can seek.

Overall, colleges and universities can’t be involved in servicing, negotiating or facilitating NIL deals for players. Schools, however, can offer legal advice to athletes on contracts, so long as this service is also available to all students.

Also, schools must adhere to state NIL laws, if applicable. And some schools still don’t allow their players to seek NIL deals.

Last week Minnesota Ath-

letics Director Mark Coyle announced updates to his athletic department’s support for NIL, including the launching of the Minnesota NIL Marketplace. It includes currently over 100 Gopher players from various sports who are available to fans and businesses “to connect, formulate an NIL agreement and transmit payment,” said the Dec. 21 release.

Such services as shoutouts

(as low as $10), five-minute video chats ($50-100) and endorsements ($100-150) are available depending on the particular athlete.

“Before NIL, it was zero percent of my time. Since then, it’s been about 70% of my time,” admitted Jeremiah Carter, Minnesota’s compliance director. He sat down with the MSR and discussed all things NIL, which he quickly stressed is everchanging.

The St. Paul native, a former Gopher football player (19982002) with two seasons as a graduate assistant coach, Carter has been in his present position since 2015. Prior to that, he worked six years in various roles at the NCAA in academic and membership affairs. Carter also serves as the school’s primary liaison to the NCAA Division I Committee on Student Athlete Reinstatement and Recruiting and Personnel Issues.

“We have watched this really evolve and change,” noted Carter on NIL, whose deals can range from million-dollar set-

ups to in-kind contracts and everything else in between.

“We’ve seen the majority of things that University of Minnesota student athletes have been involved in have been things

vertisers to reach because it’s younger folks,” he pointed out.

This fall, Dinkytown Athletes was launched as the first NIL collective to support U of M student athletes. It is not connected to the university, Carter stressed, but the venture is dedicated to creating opportunities for Gopher players to connect with local fans, donors and businesses.

Carter said his office has been working with Dinkytown “from the very inception to make sure that they were setting that up in a way that is permissible under NCAA rules.”

on social media,” stated Carter. “That can be anything from an in-kind deal, like a local business is looking to attract more customers. They will, instead of giving a student athlete cash, they say, ‘You can have $200 worth of food at a restaurant for promoting our restaurant.’

“Our student athletes’ social media following is a group that is oftentimes very hard for ad-

In the long run, Carter maintained, the NIL is good for student athletes. His job is to ensure that the Minnesota players are protected. “I’m going to advocate for [them] and I don’t mind putting in the extra time to make sure that we’re able to open up those avenues for our student athletes.”

game, had nine for Eastern Illinois.

University of Minnesota guard Amaya Battle

St. Paul Johnson guard Michael Jett Jr.

Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards

Eastern Illinois University guard Lariah Washington

University of Minnesota forward Joshua Ola-Joseph

All photos by Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald

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

Jeramiah Carter

Photo by Charles Hallman

“The venture is dedicated to creating opportunities for Gopher players to connect with local fans, donors and businesses.”

“It was a good year. Can’t wait for 2023.”

Photo by Mitchell Palmer McDonald

“Playing on Christmas is a mark of significance and it carries meaning.”

Richard