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Counting down to our 90th Anniversary
February 15 - 21, 2024
Vol. 90
The Biracial Side of Blackness By Al Brown Assignment Editor s our Black History Month discussion progresses, we shift the dialogue to how biracials define their cultural identities. Living in a nation that once implied that one drop of Black blood made you a Black person, navigating a mixed heritage may present unique societal and individual challenges.
include racial profiling, stereotyping and prejudice. (3) Family dynamics: Multiracial families may experience internal tensions related to cultural differences, societal perceptions, and family expectations. (4) Lack of representation: Mixed-race individuals often find it difficult to find relatable role models in media, literature, and other forms of pop culture. For example, Bob Marley is one of the more rec-
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No. 29
Sabathani exhibit
Photos courtesy of Sabathani Community Center
The Living History Museum Sabathani to unveil memorable walk through history Feb. 22
By Vickie Evans-Nash Contributing Writer
CEO, felt it wasn’t getting proper attention. “I thought there is just so much great history, so many great folks that led the way of n Thursday, February 22, from building Sabathani, building Minneapolis.” During the summer, Sabathani con5-8 p.m., Sabathani Community Center will host a community ducted a community needs assessment celebration honoring its legacy and those and three listening sessions to determine who helped to build it. The event is free what programming the community wantand open to the public. It will include a ed Sabathani to continue and what new preview of its Living History Museum and programming they could offer. Feedback performances by Grammy Award-winning from youth and seniors indicated the Sounds of Blackness. need for a better understanding of their The Living History Museum was in- background and ways to have intergenstalled in the building a few years ago, erational conversations. ■ See SABATHANI on page 5 Scott Redd, Sabathani president/CEO but Scott Redd, Sabathani’s president and
MDH creates new Office of African American Health DaVonna Rucker is named director
(l-r) Kylee Jackman and brother Anthony Gaston Courtesy photo Among those challenges are identity issues: (1) Some people of mixed heritage may struggle with their sense of identity. Some may even feel disconnected from both sides of their heritage, leading to a search for belonging and acceptance. (2) Microaggressions and racism: Mixed-race individuals, particularly those with a Black parent, may face microaggressions (indirect, subtle, or unintentional discrimination against members of a marginalized group) and discrimination from within and outside their communities. This can
ognized artists, living or dead. Rarely is he recognized at first glance as a biracial individual. With his powerful and distinctive Afrocentric dreadlocks, most would associate Marley as a Black Jamaican. (5) External cultural pressures: Some individuals of mixed heritage may feel pressured to conform to one specific racial or cultural identity, which can lead to feelings of erasure or the suppression of the other non-dominant cultural side. Kylee Jackman, 18, a biracial teen from Bloomington, ■ See BIRACIAL on page 5
he Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has selected DaVonna Rucker as the new Office of African American Health director. Rucker’s first day at MDH was February 7. “Please join me in extending a warm welcome to DaVonna as she undertakes this crucial role within the Office of African American Health,” said MDH Assistant Commissioner Dr. Halkeno Tura. “I am confident that her expertise and passion will significantly contribute to our ongoing efforts to promote health equity across the state.” The Office of African American Health was established through the Minnesota Legislature in the 2023 session. The office is dedicated to addressing the root causes of health inequities that disproportionately impact Minnesota’s African American communities
DaVonna Rucker Photo by MDH and convening a statewide African American Health Advisory Council. With nearly a decade of dedicated experience in the equity space, Rucker brings a wealth of expertise in leadership, program development, partnership management, and program analytics and evaluation. Known for advancing equity frameworks across organizations, Rucker excels in community partnerships, com-
plex problem-solving, empowerment leadership, program development and evaluation, and collective impact. Most recently, Rucker served at YWCA Minneapolis, working to eliminate racism and empower women. Over the last four years, she has focused on promoting juvenile-justice relating to their mental and social-emotional well-being. Rucker is recognized as a visionary and a
Rucker brings a wealth of expertise in leadership.
munity members. Rucker holds a bachelor’s degree in family and consumer science and a master’s degree in psychology in leadership and is currently pursuing her doctorate in human services. She values continuous learning and actively seeks growth opportunities that drive positive change in her surroundings. Outside of work, Rucker is a devoted family person. She and her partner share two beautiful children and a puppy. In her free time, Rucker enjoys playing card and board games with her family, participating in physical and competitive activities, and indulging in all art forms, including movies, music, theater and dance.
Information provided by builder, deeply committed to serving her community and the Minnesota Department of improving outcomes for Black Health. and other marginalized com-
Dr. Umar Johnson delivers at Northrup Gives cautionary advice on local education
By Abdi Mohamed Associate Editor
mental health in the Black community, the education system, the political landniversity of Minnesota scape, and mental health. students and several Over the years, Johnson has community members gained a large online following turned out in big numbers with several of his interviews Thursday evening February 8 in on platforms such as the popuanticipation of Dr. Umar John- lar radio show “The Breakfast son’s appearance for an event Club,” garnering millions of billed as a “transformative views. His unbending views toevent.” The Philadelphia-based wards interracial relationships educator, public speaker, and have mainly been a source of internet personality attended his notoriety and contention. the event at Northrop, the Before becoming a houseuniversity’s performing arts hold name, Johnson graduattheater, at the invitation of the ed from Millersville University Black Student Union. of Pennsylvania and attended In a conversation moder- the Philadelphia College of ated by the student group’s Osteopathic Medicine, releadership, Johnson ad- ceiving a Psy.D. in clinical psydressed roughly 600 guests chology. on several topics, including Toward the beginning of his
“The revolution will be waiting for you after graduation, but it’s important that you earn the grades you need and finish on time so you can join the revolution.” The student moderators asked Johnson about his progress at the Frederick Douglass Marcus Garvey Academy. The school project, which has been years in the making, is a point of scrutiny for many critics against Johnson, who has long requested donations to construct the Dr. Umar Johnson speaks to an engaged group of moderators. school. He announced to the Photos by Abdi Mohamed audience that there would be a grand opening for the acadremarks, Johnson implored the dents. “Make sure you don’t emy this year after completstudents in the audience to forget why you’re in college, ing inspections and receiving find a suitable balance in their and that’s to finish with high a certificate of occupancy activism and life as college stu- marks,” he said. from the state.
On mental health and education Before his life as a public speaker and online personality, Johnson worked as a school psychologist and school administrator. Much of his commentary and opinions stem from these dual viewpoints. In 2013, Johnson released “Psycho-Academic Holocaust: The Special Education & ADHD Wars Against Black Boys,” where he argued that attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder and other behavioral disorders were misdiagnosed in Black boys for economic gain. In addressing the way in which public schools address mental health, Johnson stated ■ See UMAR on page 5
2 February 15 - 21, 2024
Metro
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‘Round Up’ this February at Seward Co-op to support a legacy neighborhood of Black culture and history Dreamland Café was started by Anthony B. Cassius, a refugee from the Tulsa riots, who established with Dreamland the first integrated restaurant in the Twin Cities. Anthony Taylor (they/them), community development lead at the Cultural Wellness Center, says that Each month, Seward Co-op partners with Dreamland was “a business where for the cost a local organization for a simple yet power- of a soda, the young hotheads could conspire ful community giving opportunity that allows against the system.” In addition to a record store, barber shop, shoppers to “round-up” their grocery bill at the grocer, and other Black-owned businesses, the register for recipient organizations. Called the SEED program, this series of part- area was also (and is still) home to the Minnenerships allows Seward Co-op to work along- sota Spokesman-Recorder, the longest familyside organizations that share our commitment run African American newspaper in Minnesota, to a healthy community. All funds donated at as well as the Tilsenbilt Homes District, a housing project that was one of the first in the the register are given directly to the recipicountry to offer FHA-insured mortgages to ent organization at the end of each month. all buyers, regardless of race, as well as This February, Seward Co-op is excited the first privately developed project in to have the Cultural Wellness Center as Minneapolis to be interracial. our SEED recipient. A nonprofit foundThe The Cultural Wellness Center was ed and sustained by African Amerifuture founded in 1996 as the living legacy cans, the Cultural Wellness Center Dreamland of a health initiative called Healthy works to unleash the power of on 38th Street Powderhorn, which ran the previpeople to heal themselves and will include an ous two years as a study into why build community. incubator for some Black babies lived while othOne of the Cultural Wellers were dying at a higher rate than ness Center’s main efforts is African American White babies. As it turned out, Black to establish their future world entrepreneurs, children with access to African culheadquarters, called Dreamand community tural traditions, connectedness, and land, on 38th Street, just a gathering community were thriving. block from the Seward Co-op and event Today, the Cultural Wellness Friendship store. space. Center is focused on finding Not only will this be a hub for a solution to the problem that Cultural Wellness Center activity, losing culture and it will also play a significant role in community is making supporting a thriving corridor of Black people sick. In more culture and business that has a legacy in recent years, this drive the area. SEED donations in February will has linked deeply to real help the Cultural Wellness Center on their estate development, which journey to breaking ground on Dreamland. The history of this neighborhood goes back creates a physical space many decades, but an igniting spark came in for culture, connectedness the form of the Dreamland Café, founded in and community. Dreamland 1937 on the same ground where the Cultural on 38th Street will be that center. Its Wellness Center plans to develop their world connection to the past booming neighborhood of Black middle class life, culture headquarters.
Sponsored by
Courtesy of Seward Co-op and validation in the 38th For Anthony Taylor, the most exciting thing Street corridor makes it all to look forward to is the creation of a place the more significant. where the community is able to validate their The future own humanity and study themselves from a Dreamland on 38th legacy standpoint. Street will include an This February, ask to round-up at the Seward incubator for African Co-op register, or add any donation amount to supAmerican entrepre- port the construction of Dreamland on 38th Street neurs, a community and the future of the Cultural Wellness Center. gathering and event space, and a guided selfSeward Community Co-op is open 8 a.m.study community archive to support 10 p.m. daily, and has stores located at 2823 E. people to dig deeper into and docu- Franklin Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55406 and 317 E 38th Street, Minneapolis MN 55409. ment their own story.
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Health
February 15 - 21, 2024
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Winter activities the whole family will enjoy Parenting Today presented by
When the holidays have passed, you’ll have more time to spend relaxing and adventuring with your family. Spending time together outdoors is a great way to bond, even in the winter! If your area is cold and snowy, make sure to wear appropriate winter gear when you head outside—a layer of moisture-wicking fabric and waterproof boots make all the difference! Here are seven great family-friendly activities to try this season. Soak in a (natural) hot spring Soaking in hot water with cool air all around is a remarkably peaceful experience. If you live in the western part of the country, there are many natural hot springs within driving distance. If you aren’t lucky enough to be close to one, contact local spas and resorts to see if they have an artificial “hot springs experience” set up outdoors. Kids as young as age four can safely soak in hot springs with adult supervision, so plan a special family adventure. You can often find other fun experiences nearby, including snowshoeing/ice fishing in colder areas and beautiful hikes in warmer climates.
nect, and let your kids invite their friends, too! Make sure to check any local ordinances, but most areas at least allow fire pits. Set up some camp chairs, make hot cocoa, and provide blankets if it’s extra cold. Add a portable speaker with a fun playlist, and you’ve got the perfect winter-evening party. Spend the night in a cabin Colder temperatures and wet/snowy weather don’t mean you have to hole up at home all season! Find a cabin close to home and book it for a weekend family getaway. You can explore rustic options that only use wood fires for heat or something more luxurious tucked away in a private spot. Either way, getting away from the typical distractions of home will allow you to reconnect as a family. Because cabins aren’t as popular in the winter, it should be easy to book your ideal location. Make sure to take extra food, water and blankets in case your trip lasts longer than expected. Packing some board games is an excellent idea, too.
Go plogging Does your family enjoy getting outside to exercise together? What about volunteering to help the community? Combine the two with a Swedish craze that’s taking over the world: plogging. From Host a bonfire block party the Swedish words “plocka” When the nights get dark (to pick) and “jogga” (to jog), so much earlier, it can be chalplogging is essentially a trashlenging to spend time out in cleanup jog around town. the neighborhood connecting Grab some gloves and a with other families. Organize trash bag and head out to your a bonfire block party to recon-
Noriko Cooper via 123RF local parks, nature preserves, or even your kids’ school grounds. Jog along until you find trash, then try to pick it up as quickly as possible, and continue your workout. You can make it a friendly competition among family members, too! Register your family’s efforts on the international site to track community progress.
gin the search! Plus, you can take memorable photos on a smartphone without having to invest in specialized equipment. Make a photo book of your adventure to remember the fun for years to come.
Winter stargazing Because the Earth is tilted on its axis, the night sky visible during the summer is differTake nature photographs Whether the ground is ent from what you can see in covered in snow or your days the winter. Take advantage of are humid and balmy, winter some new constellations this photography is a great way to season by planning a stargazcapture the unique elements ing adventure. of the season as a family. Have Drive somewhere remote the kids make a list of certain to minimize light pollution, plants, animals, and natural el- then use an interactive sky ements they want to find and chart to input your location, capture in your shots, then date, and time for a detailed plan a drive, or hike out to be- map of what you can see with
the naked eye. If it’s frigid outMake wonderful famside, take sleeping bags and ily memories this season with blankets to snuggle with on these fun winter activities. the hood of your car. Kids will think it’s so fun to stay up way MSR + Minnesota Departpast bedtime. ment of Health (MDH) share a mission of protecting, maintainConduct winter science ing, and improving the health of experiments ALL Minnesotans. Our shared If you need an indoor ac- vision for health equity in Mintivity for the days when the nesota, where ALL communities weather outside is unbearable, are thriving and ALL people have try some science experiments what they need to be healthy is that unlock the secrets of win- the foundation of our partnerter—everything from ice struc- ship to bring readers our feature, ture to pinecone behavior. Parenting Today. Good health Even if you don’t have snow starts with family! To view our outside, you can conduct ex- weekly collection of stories, go periments with ice from your to our website or scan the code. freezer. Older kids can also record weather observations and track nature patterns to compare with observations in other seasons!
4 February 15 - 21, 2024
Business
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North Minneapolis feels the departure of Breaking Bread Cafe By Abdi Mohamad Associate Editor Breaking Bread Cafe shuttered its doors this past August, accelerating a decline in food options in North Minneapolis. Its closure came months after Aldi departed from Penn and Lowry avenues, creating a challenging situation for Northside residents seeking quality food retailers. The restaurant opened back in 2015 at 1210 West Broadway Ave. N. under Appetite For Change (AFC), a nonprofit whose mission was to create a restaurant in North Minneapolis that offered traditional African American dishes with healthy alternatives. While its closure has reverberated in the community, the team at AFC is optimistic in their plans to find a “forever home” for the restaurant. Tasha Powell co-founded AFC alongside Michelle Horovitz and Princess Haley in 2011. As a longtime Northside resident, Powell refused to allow the circumstances in North Minneapolis to dictate how the community sees itself. “I don’t really try to look at my community as a food desert,” she said. “I believe that we have an abundance of unhealthy food options, which is an issue.” After the restaurant’s closing, AFC announced that they would end their collaboration with Station 81 out of Union Depot in St. Paul and the closure of their catering business. However, they assured the continuance of their youth training and opportunities pro-
Plans for Breaking Bread and the Northside Although there have been some changes in the business Launching pad for food model for the organization, businesses and a community gathering space Powell reasserted that the For years, Breaking Bread goal is to have a home for the Cafe provided food entreprenonprofit. “I just want to be clear that Appetite for Change, neurs with a location to pursue the parent organization of their ventures. AFC acquired Kindred Kitchen, an organizaBreaking Bread, has been tion that provided new food looking for a forever home business owners access to an somewhere in North Minneaffordable commercial kitchen apolis, and we want to be able space in 2014 as a social enterto have a space where we can include all of our programming prise. Individuals could host popwhich includes Breaking Bread up shops at the restaurant, while as a cafe,” she said. food truck owners would utilize For a forward-looking aptheir kitchen space to prep food. proach, Nolan referred to the Breaking Bread’s closure last August leaves a void in the North Minneapolis eatery landscape. Minneapolis Food Vision, a “There’s sort of a Courtesy of Appetite For Change 10-year plan designed to create durable and local food psychological loss and manager of the Peoples’ dent of business development Ahad roughly two years ago. systems through policy stratwhenever anything Market of MPLS, witnessed the at the Northside Economic Ahad purchased the building egies and innovative initiaon the North Side location’s impact on the youth Op Network (NEON), a North for $1.2 million to expand the tives. she worked with. Minneapolis-based organiza- ZaRah Wellness Center, where To help address the lack of closes.” “We’ve also had lots of magic tion whose goal is to help small she continues supporting Black affordable commercial kitchen on that patio,” she said. “I could business owners and entrepre- women business owners in the space in North Minneapolis, Geoffrey Wilson began see what it meant for the young neurs find paths to creating space. She shared that she had NEON is set to break ground working at Breaking Bread in people to have a place to come wealth. According to Fix, 40% given a 14-month extension this spring in constructing a 2017 when he became the and rest after they spent hours of their clients are food indus- on the lease with AFC and a center to benefit food business 60-day notice before their exit owners and entrepreneurs on restaurant’s manager and most pulling produce for the urban try-related. Kindred Kitchen at Break- date. the Northside. recently held the role of direc- agriculture program that then Ahad currently rents the The center will include a tor of catering. “Breaking Bread ends up at the farmer’s market.” ing Bread provides affordable, accessible kitchen space, and space out to several tenants 22,000-square-foot commuwas a place where we could NEON offers technical assis- and plans to make renovations nity kitchen, retail space, food [bring in] people who didn’t Food landscape in North tance and business planning. in the fall, where she plans to storage, and spaces for private have the work experience or Minneapolis Wilson shared his perspec- While disappointed by the loss create a space for a new restau- kitchens. According to Fix, the polish you might need to work in some of the other restau- tive on how Breaking Bread’s of the space, Fix underlined rant—one she hopes to have center will have resources for rants in the Twin Cities,” he said. closing impacts the community. that AFC was still in opera- extended hours on evenings everyone, including a new DeVon Nolan, a self-pro- “There’s sort of a psychological tion and reaffirmed that NEON and weekends to accommo- entrepreneur and a business claimed “cheerleader” of Break- loss whenever anything on the would support them through date the surrounding neighbor- owner looking to sell consumer hoods. packaged goods at an ample ing Bread, expressed her disap- Northside closes,” he said. “It this transition. The building in which Break“Just because our relation- retail space. pointment in seeing the space can feel like a step back in the close after having spent years slow progress that we’re mak- ing Bread Cafe operated along ship didn’t work out doesn’t collaborating with AFC in pro- ing towards equitable resourc- with AFC’s administrative offic- mean they’re not an important Abdi Mohamed welcomes gramming the space for youth. es and community experiences.” es and other organizations was resource for the community,” reader responses to amohamed@ Ann Fix is the vice presi- purchased by Kenya McKnight- she stated. Nolan, a food justice activist spokesman-recorder.com. gram and their urban agriculture program.
Building a more inclusive economy: Q&A with JPMorgan Chase’s Thelma Ferguson Sponsored by
All communities should have the resources they need to strengthen their economic futures. This Black History Month, JPMorgan Chase is affirming its commitment to breaking down barriers—including the racial wealth gap—and promoting opportunity for all. In recognition of Black History Month, we connected with Thelma Ferguson, global head of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and the vice chair of commercial banking at JPMorgan Chase, to get her insights on how she’s celebrating Black History Month, how JPMorgan Chase is advancing equity and inclusion and what she hopes to achieve in the year ahead. 1) Tell us a little about yourself and your role at JPMorgan Chase. The majority of my 25-year tenure at JPMorgan Chase has been in commercial banking, providing clients with the financial solutions they need to grow their businesses. Yet, no matter what my role was, I have always been focused on driving inclusion and equity. Today, as the global head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, I’m proud to look after our leading strategies to uplift employees, clients and the communities we serve as the bank for all. I also continue to serve as vice chair for commercial banking, building and managing key client relationships from coast to coast.
also understand that our company can play a role in helping communities grow, driving local economies, and helping people build their prosperity. We’re helping to power economic growth by breaking down barriers and creating opportunities in communities across the globe. We do that through a focus on advancing diversity, equity and inclusion within our own workforce, as well as through business and community investments and policy advocacy.
Inequity stifles economic growth.
4) How has your company’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion strategy evolved over the past couple of years as the spotlight has been put on the country’s lingering racial inequality and social injustice issues? We’re working to address inequities, including the racial wealth gap, in a meaningful way. Our efforts to Thelma Ferguson is the global head of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and vice support inclusive growth dates back chair of commercial banking at JPMorgan Chase decades. One more recent example is our $30 billion, five-year Racial Eqthe achievements and struggles of and enable impactful conversations uity Commitment (REC) focused on our Black communities. To me, this and opportunities to continue our advancing sustainable homeownermeans honoring the immense reach, commitment to help create more eq- ship, driving small business growth, depth and richness of Black com- uitable pathways for all. bolstering financial health and exmunities’ global history, in addition panding access to banking. to its connection and intersection 3) How is JPMorgan Chase working to Through this commitment, we’re 2) What does Black History Month mean with other communities. At JPMor- advance a more inclusive economy? helping to create greater access to afto you and how are you celebrating? gan Chase, we organize events and We believe that we are only as fordable home loans, low-cost checkBlack History Month is an im- activities to honor the designation, strong as the communities we serve ing accounts and financial health portant opportunity to reflect on highlight Black history and culture, and the economies they support. We education workshops in the commu-
nities we serve and particularly in historically underserved neighborhoods. Our goal is to help close the racial wealth gap and ensure all members of communities—including our own employees—can access the resources they need to strengthen their economic futures. 5) How should other companies and individuals be thinking about diversity, equity and inclusion as it relates to the growth of their business? Inequity stifles economic growth. If you start with that fact, it becomes clear how engaging more communities and helping to create more equitable opportunities is just smart business. Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are not buzzwords. Their tenets should be core ingredients in the design and execution of your business strategies and run with the same commitment and rigor as other parts of your business. 6) What are your goals for this year and what are you looking forward to in 2024? This year, my goals include deepening our culture of inclusion for our 300,000 employees, across all backgrounds and geographies and perspectives. I’m also focused on further embedding inclusive practices and solutions within JPMorgan Chase to inform our business, gain efficiencies and deepen impact. I am optimistic about the road ahead and continued progress in helping to lift all. MSR + JPMorgan Chase have partnered to bring you the Finance FYI series. For more from this series, visit spokesman-recorder.com.
February 15 - 21, 2024
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BIRACIAL
him differently because he’s of mixed heritage. “Yes and no; because nobody believes my mom’s White. People would not expect me to have a White
concluding that he prefers to be identified as mixed-race. As for navigating between the two cultures, Kylee expressed that the differences are quickly noticed at family events. “At one side of the family, we have family reunions near farms with hot dogs, homemade Rice Krispy bars, and so on. At the other, we’re having cookouts with barbecue and R&B music. So between the two, I do notice a change in my personality. Given the He also sees a strength in setting, I notice a shift in my being biracial. “It’s the best of cultural identity,” she explained. Regarding the data on states both worlds, learning two different cultures, two different with the most people identified upbringings,” he said, while as biracial, the Pew Research
Center found that the states with the highest percentage of biracial individuals in the United States are Hawaii, Alaska, Oklahoma, and Nevada. However, it’s important to note that the experience of mixed-race individuals can vary widely based on factors such as geographic location, socioeconomic status, and individual family dynamics. We invite those of mixed heritage, specifically those with a Black parent, to share your experience of navigating cultural identity in America.
Sabathani played a role in that history.” The museum features an exhibit showing how redlining was used to block access to Blacks buying homes in the community. It includes information on Prince, who attended Central High School just a few blocks away. It also features a timeline of buildings and people who represent Black life and leadership in Minneapolis, along with the founding members of Sabathani. “We stand on the shoulders of giants,” Redd says. “When you think about the folks who came through here, whether it’s Neva Walker, Bill English, and of course Cecil Newman, we want
to be able to uplift them and give them the thanks that they deserve for the hard work that they put into making Minneapolis the place that it is today.” As one of the oldest non-
nity that it has been for almost 60 years. “Most importantly, we want our youth and the folks who come through these doors to see what leadership looks like,” he says, “making
by Chelles’ Kitchen, will honor those contributing to the Sabathani community, like the Royal Red Hat Sabathanettes. The museum, which changes quarterly, will highlight Sounds of Blackness this quarter. “We are highlighting…the great work that Sounds of Blackness has done to unite our Black community and to share the story of Black folks across the world,” Redd says. The group will perform at the event and Gary Hines will be speaking. “We want to continue to profits founded by African sure that we create that new invest in the building, but we also want to invest in this comAmericans in the state, Redd round of leaders.” Sabathani Southside Com- munity. It’s so important that wants Sabathani to continue to be the beacon for the commu- munity Celebration, catered folks come out and see what’s
happening in this [38th Street] corridor right now.” “We want to collaborate,” Redd continues. “We want to build back together. And for that to happen we need strong Black voices not just at this event, but at the table supporting one another, making sure that we make our elders proud of the work they laid in front of us. And that will be the message not just on the 22nd, but moving forward.”
capital of Black people” following the numerous high-profile police-involved shootings of Black men in the Twin Cities metro. He also addressed the disparities in employment and housing between Black and White Minnesotans, but stated that none of these issues could be addressed without first determining who in the community was truly there to help. “If we want to save Black Minneapolis and St. Paul, the first thing you gotta do is separate the serious from the sellouts, because until you separate the serious from the
pan-Africanism, where he believes that despite the nationalism, creed, or tribal affiliations one might have, one’s African identity should be first. “The problem that I have with the chauvinism and the biases that we display towards each other is out of ignorance because if we don’t learn to stand together, we will all perish as fools,” he said. Johnson pointed to other races and stated that although there might be a sense of superiority between different cultures in both the White and Asian communities, they’re Northrup crowd gathers Feb. 8 in anticipation of Dr. Umar Johnson’s conversation.
treats myself differently.” Being a biracial teen she is Continued from page 1 expected to wrestle with the dual cultures embedded from birth, but not young Kylee. “I Minnesota, shared what it is believe that I have a unique perlike growing up interracial. “I sonality that nobody can really identify myself as biracial, but imitate. This is because of being a lot of times I don’t even men- raised by two different cultures tion race only because it leads and seeing two viewpoints.” to 1,000 questions and pictures,” Although many celebrities she explained. “I don’t feel like are biracial, many don’t autojustifying who I am every time matically see them that way. someone else is curious about “I do wish there were more my race.” people like me to look up to She adds that because she and relate to,” she says. “Beappears White to the common cause there are so many queseye, the question of race is not tions I’d like to ask. Every time asked as much. “I like to think I think about telling somebody that I’m the only person who that I’m biracial, there’s tons of
emotions I experience.” Kylee’s older brother Anthony Gaston, 30, being a darker shade than his sister, has sometimes felt some have treated
SABATHANI Continued from page 1
“I thought what better way to have an intergenerational conversation than in a museum that had not been getting much use,” said Redd. The museum was previously housed on the second floor of the building, where it was much less visible. “Let’s bring this living museum alive,” Redd responded. “Let’s bring it onto our first floor so that when people come into our building, they will see the heroes, our founders, and understand the history of South Minneapolis and how
que, local nt from the n American mmunity's UMAR
Continued from page 1
that “Special education is nothing more than a scam to intentionally miseducate Black boys and create a permanent underclass by which White racism never has to compete equitably with the very Black children they intentionally miseducated.” Johnson stated that Dr. Lisa Sayles-Adams, the newly appointed superintendent of Minneapolis Public Schools, would have difficulty improving the outcomes for Black children due to the influence of the local teacher’s union. “One thing you gotta understand about public education is that it exists for the comfort of the White female teacher, not the best interest of the Black male or female child,” he stated. While he wished the superintendent luck, Johnson stated that until she has the ability to hire and fire teachers, there won’t be much progress in closing the education gap in Minneapolis.
mother being the shade I am,” Anthony explains. But he adds that there have been times he’s felt that he had to pick a side, based on his surroundings.
“I don’t feel like justifying who I am every time someone else is curious about my race.”
“We want to continue to invest in the building, but we also want to invest in this community.”
union of Black votes. Then you force the candidates of all major parties to come into a room like this and have a conversation with just us,” he said.
tion, but overall I thought it was a productive conversation,” she said. Willie Roller and Jasmine Hornbrook had heard about Johnson’s visit to Minnesota through friends and decided Reception of attendees Rana Khidir, a student at to purchase tickets to hear his the university, shared that she commentary in person. Though sellouts, you don’t know who willing to settle their differenc- attended the event because engaged with his online conyou’re working with,” he said. es if there is a greater threat or Johnson was a significant Black tent, they wanted to hear him figure and wanted to hear from in person. One question written by an goal to their race. “It’s different seeing it on audience member asked JohnIn answering a question him because there weren’t son about his views on the about the upcoming election, many that students had the op- YouTube and memes and hearing him go full in on a theory divide within the Black com- Johnson furthered his call for portunity to hear from. “He had a lot of points that or a topic that he doesn’t usuOn political parties and Black munity, particularly between Black unity despite personal Black Americans and African differences. “We don’t need I agreed with, a lot that I ally go in,” Roller said. “Coming unity e: Johnson referred to Minne- immigrants. Much of Johnson’s a party because we’re not in didn’t necessarily agree with, exclusively from Minnesota, apolis as “the police genocide commentary revolves around the majority, but we do need a especially on special educa- where you have fragmented
“If we don’t learn to stand together, we will all perish as fools.”
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Al Brown welcomes reader responses to abrown@spokesmanrecorder.com.
Sabathani Community Center is located at 310 East 38th Street in Minneapolis. The event is free, but registration is suggested on their website at sabathani.org.
sets of Black people, you don’t hear these conversations a lot.” Hornbrook shared her appreciation for Johnson’s commitment to the diaspora and enjoyed his delivery. Roller agreed, stating that the comedic tone Johnson used kept him intrigued and didn’t make it feel like he was lecturing them. “I appreciated how he talked about mental illnesses like ADHD and explained how that has come about and kind of demystifies that,” Hornbrook said. Abdi Mohamed welcomes reader responses to amohamed@ spokesman-recorder.com
6 February 15 - 21, 2024
Arts & Culture
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Oglesby’s ‘Handprints’ captures an artist’s coming of age By Abdi Mohamed Associate Editor Since arriving on the Twin Cities theater scene roughly 20 years ago, Greta Oglesby has held a variety of different roles, which has allowed her to showcase her range and ability as an actress. Whether it’s her performance in “King Lear,” “The Wiz,” and “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner,” the veteran performer has showcased time and again that she’s capable of escaping into a variety of such rich and adored characters in the world of theater. Her latest play, “Handprints,” has been nearly four years in the making and is arguably the most personal as an actor for Oglesby, who embarked on a journey to capture her life story on stage. Based on her 2012 book, “Mama ‘n ‘Nem, Handprints on My Life,” the production takes audiences through Oglesby’s early life as the child of a pastor and her journey of discov-
to audiences. When the op- ‘It just needs to become comportunity arose to work with pletely a piece of art,’ and this Oglesby on her play, Thompson ancestral quilt just needs to seized it without hesitation. cover the entire stage,” Moore “One of the things I’m in- said. Throughout the show a terested in,” he said,” is bringing more perspective to what checkered quilt drapes the history is and what stories are stage, similar to the one worn told. With Greta’s piece, I want by Oglesby at different points to honor artists, because I be- in the play. The ancestral quilt lieve artists are a reflection of serves as a motif in reference to the several individuals deour world.” Having worked with Ogles- picted in the play whose lives by in the past, Thompson had and lessons played an imno concern in regards to her mense role in Oglesby’s life. ability to perform and put on a good show. His focus in directing the play was to ensure that What originally Greta Oglesby Photos courtesy of The History Theatre Oglesby’s story was accurately portrayed in the way she envi- was intended as a ering herself in the performing and performed by Oglesby, sioned it. one-woman show “I listened to Greta a lot arts world. “Handprints” sets the production was directed morphed into a out to highlight the individuals by Richard D. Thompson with about what her interests were, more dynamic in Oglesby’s life, especially her Sanford Moore serving as its what her concerns were, and what the story is that she’s father whose difficult legacy music director. performance Thompson has been the put down on paper, and then and parenting have come to between Greta History Theatre’s artistic direc- worked with her knowing define her life. The show premiered at the tor for just over a year, and in her talents, her abilities, to Oglesby and History Theatre in downtown taking on the role expressed best bring about that story,” Dennis Spears. St. Paul on Jan. 25 and is set his interest in bringing stories Thompson said. Kirby Moore, who was in to run until Feb. 18. Written that offer another perspective charge of the scenic design of the play, has been with the The show is split into two History Theatre for 12 years. acts, the first being roughly a His role in the show was to half hour followed by a short help bring about a backdrop intermission with an hourfor Oglesby’s production. long second act. In the first At first, he considered de- half, we meet a young Greta, veloping a way to depict Chi- the daughter of a strict pastor, cago and Minneapolis skylines who would come to fear her in the background but decided father’s temper as she dealt that the design should have with physical abuse. We’re a more integral role in the also introduced to Oglesby’s production. “We just kind of nurturing mother and aunt. What originally was intossed that aside and just said,
Abdi Mohamed welcomes reader comments at amohamed@ spokesman-recorder.com.
Black Citizenship in the Age of Jim Crow explores African Americans’ fight for racial equality and full citizenship that unfolded in the 50 years following the Civil War.
“Handprints” highlights key figures in Oglesby’s life, especially her father.
walkerart.org
tended as a one-woman show morphed into a more dynamic performance between Oglesby and Dennis Spears, who takes on a variety of roles including Oglesby’s father, husband, and her grade-school bully. Originally, Oglesby developed the play with Marcela Lorca at Ten Thousand Things, but due to the pandemic had called off the production. In their time together, Lorca and Oglesby agreed that there was a need for another performer to help bring the play to life. Throughout the entire production, Oglesby showcased her wide-ranging vocals, breaking out into original songs to emphasize the emotion in each scene. She does this, all the while giving enough space in her performance to allow herself to engage with the audience almost as a third party to her own life experiences as she narrates downstage. The play gives audiences the opportunity to sit in and experience what life was once like for a young girl who grew up in a Black family in Chicago through its culturally rich depiction, and meet the loved ones whose influence helped shape her life to becoming a featured talent in the Twin Cities.
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This exhibition has been organized by the New-York Historical Society.
Lead support for the exhibition provided by National Endowment for the Humanities: Exploring the human endeavor. Major support provided by the Ford Foundation and Crystal McCrary and Raymond J. McGuire. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in these programs do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
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Opinion
February 15 - 21, 2024
7
PERSPECTIVES FROM WITHIN
Is the Dept. of Corrections knowingly inflicting pain upon prisoners? By Keith Crow
Democrats and the mediocre Black misleaders
Since 2023, the Minnesota Department of Corrections has been discontinuing the medication prescribed to prisoners by medical physicians. Why? In 2016, A physician prescribed 300 mg of gabapentin to be increased over time to 800 mg for sciatic nerve damage, degenerative disc disorder, and my chronic back pain. In October 2023, a nurse practitioner at MCF-Rush City informed me that I would be discontinued from taking gabapentin. I was in disbelief as I tried to process this. “Why?” I asked. She said, “[The] Minnesota Department of Corrections has seen a rise in abuse.” The nurse practitioner prescribed cymbalta; I explained I had tried it two years ago and experienced excruciating pain in my stomach along with diarrhea. In November 2023, a different nurse practitioner recommended I try keppra, which had worked for me previously. Apparently, the MN Dept. of Corrections central office did not approve the medication, citing I did not meet the criteria without elaborating more. What is the criteria now? When were the criteria changed, and why? If my medical injuries and records reflect-
ed that I previously met the requirements, why not now? I’m dealing with the side effects of a psyche medication prescribed (amitriptyline) or no help with pain management. What are my options? It is not like I can go to the clinic and see a physician; I must wait and try every other medication with side effects that affect my daily living. We have signed contracts being broken by the MN Dept of Correction. What is the legality of this? Does breach of contract amount to cruel and unusual punishment?
nesota prisoners? If the Minnesota Dept of Corrections cannot medically care for its aging prison population, let out those who have earned good time under MMRA law or Work Release Minn Stat.244.065, which allows work release at 50 percent of the time. I humbly ask anyone who has family or friends with medical conditions that require medication to consider contacting the Minnesota Dept of Correction Central office at 651-361-7200 for updates on your loved one’s prescription requirements. We seek the help of any medical professionals, attorneys, and genuine good Minnesotans to assist us by calling on our behalf to ask why this is happening.
pushing it past New Hampshire, throw money around to anyWe have signed where they didn’t even bother one who is willing to repeat the contracts being with a primary campaign. As party line, and if the grifters in broken by the MN in the rest of the South, regis- question are Black, they lower The Democrats offer noth- tered Democrats in South Car- the standard even further. The Dept of Correction. In strife, electoral propagandists don’t ing but fake opposition and the olina are usually Black. Keith Crow duopoly is splitting. The chosen The decision to have an early need to be smart or offer anyInstead, there seems to be a oid# 205852 Black spokespeople are pre- contest in a southern state is thing new. In fact, that is the desire for prisoners who have dictably hacks who get paid to politically sound, but nothing last thing their patrons want. legitimate injuries to sit in daily Perspectives from Within feacomes out of it for Black people Any skills or intelligence go spout meaningless drivel. pain. Is this a ploy to prescribe ture concerns from inmates in The Democratic Party except photo ops with the likes out the window and we are psyche medications to hope- partnership with the Twin Cities shows its contempt for the of Congressman James Clyburn, left with sad analogies about fully keep us incapacitated and Incarcerated Workers Organizing Black voters they depend a leader of the congressional picking cotton. Doing otherlimit our mental functions so Committee, a union of prisoners, upon in a myriad of ways. They establishment who has been wise would rock the political we cannot write a grievance ex-prisoners, families, and comtalk a good game and pretend falsely portrayed as an indepen- boat and expose the fakery nor keep a train of thought? munities working to transform to do what Black people want dent actor, a kingmaker. that is rife in American politics. We are prescribed medica- the justice system in MN. The while also engaging in duopoly Of course, this is a difficult tions by physicians. Why is MN expressed views are not those treachery, falsely pointing to moment as the ruling classes The quadrennial Dept. of Corrections so intent of the Minnesota SpokesmanRepublicans as the obstacle to are openly splitting on key iselection process on inflicting pain upon Min- Recorder Media Group. doing what the people want. sues. The Democratic Party is a grifter’s dream “But Trump!” will be their is saddled with an unpopular come true. most popular expression in president and a discredited for2024. This year will present mer president who is still mannumerous occasions for paIt is true that Biden recently aging to lead in the polls. Demtronizing treachery against the won in South Carolina over- ocrats gave away the store as people whose support they whelmingly with 96 percent of the saying goes in coming up need the most. the vote, but with only a four with an immigration bill that By Steve Subera Jalali’s endorsement of the at introducing a tenant protecOne would think that as Joe percent turnout of registered Republicans demanded. The Minnesota Reformer original rent control ordinance tion ordinance in 2020 before Biden struggles to reach an voters. One can hardly blame The border wall, which liberwas based on a misunder- rent control ended up in court approval rating that would en- those who chose to stay home. als were supposed to revile, was The mess that is St. Paul’s standing of how it would af- and was later rescinded by the sure re-election success that He had no credible competi- back yet again, along with other rent control ordinance was fect development. In a Pioneer Council. Perhaps Jalali is comhe and the rest of the party tion and the fix, as they say, measures intended to stem the in the news again recently. Press opinion piece, she assert- ing around on her previous opestablishment would choose was in. But that doesn’t ex- flow of asylum seekers at the The Star Tribune reported that ed that development would not position to the new construcbetter people to represent cuse the likes of Jaime Har- southern border. Republicans the city granted a rent control be affected, even if new con- tion exemption. In the Star them in the group most likely rison from using one of the were on board until Donald carve-out late last year to Sher- struction was subject to rent Tribune article, she said that to vote for Democrats. They most trite and offensive stump Trump told them to scuttle the man Associates on a favored control. She erroneously cited she wasn’t for “wholesale redon’t because they are on the speech lines about picking cot- bill, and scuttle it they did. project. Sherman Associates is as proof cities that had new pealing” of it. Republicans held military converting Landmark Towers, construction exemptions. horns of a dilemma. ton and picking presidents. Given what we know has They don’t really want to Not to be outdone, Symone spending for Ukraine and for a downtown office space, into Jalali embraced three per- happened thus far, let’s hope be too closely identified with Sanders, once a press secretary Israel hostage, claiming they market-rate apartments, and cent maximum rent increases she will reconsider her advoBlack people, the group they for the Bernie Sanders cam- would give billions of dollars the city is providing subsidies without acknowledging the cacy for rent control. It puts the need most. They also can’t be paign in 2016 and an adviser more if they got the border bill through tax increment financ- effects of inflation or that not city at a disadvantage when in conflict with the oligarchs to Biden’s 2020 campaign, who they wanted. But Trump spoke ing. allowing for a reasonable rate trying to attract developers to who make all of the political then moved on to work for and the wheeling and dealing The rent control ordinance’s of return could expose the or- provide more housing, which is decisions in the country. The Vice President Kamala Harris, fell apart. Enter Symone Sand- 20-year exemption for new dinance to a legal fight the city ultimately the best strategy for end result is a parade of fool- added to the tomfoolery by ers Townsend. expanding our tax base, stabiconstruction currently cov- would likely lose. “In a world where the U.S. ers the project, meaning the ishness meant to keep Black telling viewers that wanting to lizing rents, and developing arEven with rent people in support of a party have a choice other than Biden doesn’t fund Ukraine, Taiwan developer isn’t bound by the eas of the city that need it. and Israel as well as provide $$ three percent cap on annual that actively works against is akin to going on a diet. Carter seems to understand control in place, the The quadrennial election needed for border security… rent increases. To alleviate their interests. this, but he’s wavered in the popolicy had no teeth. In 2024 Democrats put the process is a grifter’s dream more people will die, Putin concerns from the developer litical winds. He endorsed the The city couldn’t South Carolina primary first, come true. The Democrats will win, the Chinese govern- about potential changes to the original rent control ordinance ment will follow Putin’s lead ordinance, the city agreed to but declared he would fix it. His afford the staff to and America is no longer a reli- substantially increase the tax delayed and poor implementapolice the new reguable partner.” This sort of word subsidy for the project if a fution of the regulatory aspect of latory regime. salad is all that is left of what ture city council vote removed enforcing rent control made no passes for Black leadership. its exemption from rent control. one happy. The misleaders are even worse Where does all this leave St. City Council President MiEven with rent control in than they used to be. tra Jalali, who championed the place, the policy had no teeth. Paul on rent control? Will our Hoping for a better class original rent control ordinance The city couldn’t afford the city officials figure out how to of party hacks is a loser’s in 2021 that at the time con- staff to police the new regula- fix it? What is the path forward game, but they must be ex- tained no exemption for new tory regime. As a result, rents for the City Council? The housposed nonetheless. It is vital construction, voted for the often went up more than three ing boom that St. Paul had enfor Black people to see what agreement. percent, even as developers joyed has ended — true, not all kind of games are being played Mayor Melvin Carter, a pro- and banks pulled back from the the fault of rent control — but submissions@spokesman-recorder.com against them. Democrats offer ponent of the new construction market: The worst of all worlds. a contributing factor. nothing but quieter Trump- exemption in the amended rent A majority of the previous Now that it’s harder for deism, and that is why a Black control ordinance that passed City Council understood from velopers to find the money to media personality like Sanders in 2022, found an indirect way the beginning that changes build, cities need advantages Townsend will make silly state- to protect the exemption from needed to be made as soon as as they compete for projects. ments about Russia and China. removal by the City Council. At possible. They amended rent Rent control is not an advanIt is what she is being paid to least for this one project. control, but Jalali voted against tage. Sure, we can give special do after all, and the people doHow this agreement affects the changes in the name of deals to favored developers ing the paying are scoundrels requests from other develop- tenant protections. like Sherman Associates, but submissions@spokesman-recorder.com and hacks themselves. Tenant protections are good is that really the best path to ers and what it means for the future of rent control is unclear. and can help renters with the more housing for more St. PauMargaret Kimberley is the What is clear is that the two power imbalance between lites? author of “Prejudential: Black political allies with diverging them and a rental company. America and the Presidents.” rent control views need a bet- Protections should co-exist Steve Subera lives and writes You can support her work on ter way to work together that with robust development, in St. Paul. He considers teachPatreon and also find it on the doesn’t result in multiple one- though. Restricting the hous- ing his kids to cook his greatest Twitter, Bluesky, and Telegram off agreements to bail out cer- ing supply only makes it harder accomplishment. This story is submissions@spokesman-recorder.com. platforms. She can be reached tain developers from the costs for renters to find homes. republished from The Minnesota via email at margaret.kimber- of rent control, further compliCan this City Council find Reformer under a Creative Comley@blackagendareport.com. cating development in St. Paul. that balance? A first attempt mons license. By Margaret Kimberley BAR executive editor and senior columnist
Carve-out for developer exposes St. Paul’s flawed rent control policy
8 February 15 - 21, 2024
Bulletin
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Events in the Twin Cities: Feb. 17 - 22 The MSR celebrates Black history 365 days a year and Black History Month - MIZ MARTHA - A Mixed Blood Theater enjoys a living legacy as one of the state’s oldest Black Workshop businesses. Below we’ve compiled a few events for this Feb. 19 | 4:30 p.m. @ Mississippi Market Co-op: East 7th Store, 740 7th St. E., St. Paul week to explore and celebrate Black history. Each week Learn about the narratives woven into food and the historical we will highlight free or low-cost events in the community. threads that shape it in a unique Mixed Blood Theater workshop.
Discovering African American Roots: A Beginners Guide, Genealogy Workshop with Mica L. Anders Feb. 22 | 6 p.m. @ MAAHMG, 1256 Penn Ave. N. Fourth Floor, Mpls. Explore the exciting world of genealogy with professional genealogist Mica L. Anders as she presents an introductory genealogy workshop to unlock the stories of your African American This immersive experience seamlessly blends food, acting and ancestors. Stories for Black History Month history, inviting participants to share, play, act and eat. $0-$15. In this workshop, Anders will introduce the tools you need Feb. 17 | 10 a.m. @ 5244 Lyndale Ave. S., Mpls. For more info visit, bit.ly/BHMMIZMARTHA to begin your family history journey, highlight uniquely African Master Storyteller Kristie Lazenberry will offer a lively perAmerican sources, and help you uncover your family’s stories to formance to teach community members about characters from honor their legacy. Free. For more info, visit bit.ly/DiscoverinAfrican and African American folktales and the tradition of stogAfricanAmericanRoots rytelling in the African American community. This program is funded by Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. Free. For more info, visit bit.ly/StoriesBlackHistoryMonth
Sabathani Community Center Museum Unveiling Feb. 22 | 5 p.m. @ 310 E 38th St Suite 120, Mpls. MAAHMG Children’s Reading Circle with Sideena Grace Following a welcome reception catered by Chelle’s Kitchen, Feb. 17 | 11:30 a.m. @ 1256 Penn Ave. N. Fourth Floor, Mpls. the new Sabathani Living History Museum will be unveiled. Join the Minnesota African American History Museum and Originally housed on the second floor, the museum will serve as Gallery’s Children’s Reading Circle with Sideena Grace as she a testament to the century-long narrative of Black pride deeply reads her book “Adventures with Sideena, ABC’s in Space.” Free. rooted in South Minneapolis, honoring the community’s past, For more info, visit bit.ly/MAAHMGSideenaGrace present and future. The museum exhibits include “Owning Up: Racism and Housing in Minneapolis,” originally presented during the 2018 event series “Racism, Rent, and Real Estate: Fair Housing Reframed” by Mill City Consulting; “Sabathani Heroes,” commemorating local luminaries vital to the history of this community; and a performance by the Sounds of Blackness. Free. For more info, visit bit. ly/RESPECTMakersMarket
Humanize My Hoodie Gallery Reception Feb. 22 | 6 p.m. @ North Regional Library, 1315 Lowry Ave. N., Mpls. Enjoy a Humanize My Hoodie photo gallery and documentary screening, followed by a Q&A. The photo exhibit and documentary are designed to foster critical conversations about threat perception and dismantle the preconceived notions and stereotypes associated with race and certain types of clothing. Free. For more info, visit bit.ly/HumanizeMyHoodieReception
Reel Revolution North: MN Feb. 17 | 3 p.m. @ Capri Theater, 2027 West Broadway Ave., Mpls. Reel Revolution North: Actors Round Table explores the changing landscape of Minnesota’s film and television industry! Join us for an engaging discussion at the historic Capri Theater. Speaker guests include actors Aunjanue L. Ellis-Taylor, Terrence Howard, Yolanda Ross and more. The event will feature a special tribute for actor Carl Weathers who was slated to appear at the event prior to his recent passing. $25-35. For more info, visit bit. ly/ReelRevolutionNorth
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February 15 - 21, 2024
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Sr. Software Engineer- Patient Care Software, Medtronic, Inc., Minneapolis, MN.
Req. Master’s in Computer Science, Software Engr. or Computer Engr. or related computer or engr. field & 2 yrs. of exp. as a software engineer or rel. occupation in software engineering for medical devices; or Bachelor’s & 5 yrs. of exp. Must have 2 yrs. of exp. in each: Android devt.; Automated testing with a unit test framework; Software testing, Java devt. & OOAD; SDLC &Agile Tools to incl. Codebeamer or Jira; Software test architecture & software tools for mobile software applications; Defining XML & JSON; Configuration tools & best practices to inc. GIT; & Continuous Integration environments to incl. Jenkins. Position open to telecommuting from anywhere in the U.S. Multiple positions available. Apply at https://jobs.medtronic.com/, Req. # 240001L1. No agencies or phone calls. Medtronic is an equal opportunity employer committed to cultural diversity in the workplace. All individuals are encouraged to apply.
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From Classified Residential Home Supervisors: Department/MN Anoka,MN-based Home Health Care seeks Residential Home Spokesman-Recorder
Supervisors. Multiple positions Coordinate the operations of group homes and personnel; Program documentation at a PHONE: 612-827-4021 high level, ensuring extensive daily documentation and all documentation is up to date. Train and oversee the staff’s data collection and regularly review and collect and monitor FOR BILLING the program data collection; Regular responsibility to be the INQUIRIES On-Call Administrator. Performs direct care duties, as needed; & TEARSHEETS Prepares work schedule and reviews time cards; Conducts PL E A S E C O N TAC T and attends staff meetings, providing input and ideas and AC C O U N T I NG D E P T new staff orientation. Responds to emergencies situations as BILLING@SPOKESMAN-RECORDER.COM needed; Performs related duties as assigned. Provide support, supervision, and oversight as needed Develop skills in critical areas and develop these skills in staff as assigned by the EMPLOYMENT DISPLAY Residential Service Administrator. B.A or B.sc required. Send SI ZE: 2 COL X 3.25 I NCH resume to libertymathan@gmail.com R ATE $44.60 PER COL . I NCH TOTAL: $289.90
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go to spokesman-recorder.com Please proof, respond with confirmation to ad@ call 612-827-4021, or scan code was email elected in 1991 in his
SOE
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outfielder was an all-state prep player. She is studying journalism and hopes to one day become a broadcaster. She has the personality and the drive for it. Burnett started 41 games last season and had a .436 slugging percentage. She drove in 17 runs and scored 14 runs in her first collegiate season, but Burnett admitted that her rookie season wasn’t what she initially hoped for. “There were definitely some rough points throughout the whole season for me,” she recalled. “I don’t think it went completely as planned. I felt like at times you’d go up and down, up and down. And at the down points, I was trying to figure out why. It was just like getting through those rough patches.” When asked who or what helped her deal with those ups and downs last season, Burnett said, “I say my mom helped me. I’m very religious so God and praying every day, He helped me the most.” The Gopher sophomore comes from an athletic family—her father Brian once played college football at Colorado State, and her brother Brian, Jr. also played college football (Jacksonville University) and pro football for two years in the German Football League. Breezy helped her high school win a championship as a freshman, and finished as a four-time district champion and three-time regional champion as well. She believes that her skills will ultimately prove successful at Minnesota as well. Her personal goals this season include not letting the tough times overwhelm her: “Learning how to get out of it faster than I did last year” ranks high among those goals, said
spokesman-recorder.com. more exposure: firstFor time on the ballot. We are also inviting our clients toOnly advertise on our web site for 2 Mobile, Alabama weeks for a flat fee of $150 perNew position of (five), Yorkwith (33),purchase and print ad. Illinois (12) have more Baseball Hall of Famers The MSR handles billing digitally. than Saint Paul. LegendThis means you will getary e-tears and e-mailed invoices St. Paul Youth Coach unless you specifically Bill request a hardsaw copy.the poPeterson
Breezy Burnett on the field Courtesy of Minnesota Athletics Burnett. “Going into this season, I feel like I have all my physical aspects coming together. I just have to stay in a positive mindset and trust in my process.” Even though she’s in her second year on the team, and not an official team captain, Burnett concluded, “I feel like my team shows a lot of respect for me and values my opinion and what I have to say. So, I just keep climbing to continue to get a leadership role.” Charles Hallman welcomes reader comments at challman@spokesman-recorder.com.
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Everyone is hoping for a full season from Lewis, who missed about a fourth of last year due to injuries. When he came back, Lewis helped push the Twins to the Central Division title and into the second round of the playoffs. “It was so special, especially the young guys like myself coming up and being a part of a successful team,” Lewis recalled. “We look to continue their success.” Added Baldelli, “He has so Royce Lewis on the field Courtesy of Minnesota Twins much ability…and he is going to win games for us with that weeks of the regular season, the right way. ability.” “I don’t try to act a certain Lewis last season played with a strained left hamstring. “My main goal, obviously, way in front of other people” third base, shortstop, and saw time at first base. He is to stay healthy just like ev- and in another way behind impressed everyone with his eryone else,” said Lewis, the closed doors, he pointed out. “I’m just the same kind of guy, ever present optimism and No. 1 overall pick in 2017. positive attitude. “He’s a highly optimistic, same kind of kid.” Surmised Baldelli on Lew“I think that helped him positive young man no matter get through the injuries that what’s going on,” observed is, “He needs to just continue he dealt with,” said Baldelli Baldelli. “We play a lot of ball to keep things as simple and on Lewis, who missed all of games, but he’s a very evenly as finely tuned and honed as possible.” 2021 with an ACL tear in his keeled but positive guy.” “I just love this game,” said right knee, and then tore the Asked where he develsame ACL in May 2022 that oped this approach to sports Lewis. “I’ll do anything to be sidelined him for the rest and life in general, Lewis said a part of it and around it.” of that season. Last season proudly, “My parents. They Charles Hallman welcomes Lewis also missed time with just instilled in me that you a strained left oblique (six just got to live and enjoy life. reader comments at challman@ weeks) and, the final two They taught me how to do it spokesman-recorder.com.
tential of the four St. Paul HOFs but always wants it to be known that he never coached them. “I just don’t like it when it says that I coached them, because I really didn’t,” Peterson, who’s over 80 years old and still active with local youth baseball, told the MSR. He has a baseball field named for him and has worked with youth since the 1960s, beginning with coaching an all-Black hockey team in St. Paul. Mauer going into the Hall of Fame this summer didn’t surprise Peterson. “We thought around here that he had everything that he should have to go in,” he said of Mauer. Peterson added that Winfield virtually set the example for others like Monitor and Morris, and eventually Mauer to follow. “The impact that David had on them because they [Monitor and Morris] were in eighth and ninth grade, and David was a senior. They saw all the things that he did.” The newest Hall of Famer told me that he owes his newest position to his parents, grandparents, and peo-
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Please proof, respond with email confirmation to ad@ spokesman-recorder.com. For more exposure: We are also inviting our clients to advertise on our web site f weeks for a flat fee of $150 per position with purchas print ad.
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ple like Peterson and others who helped him along the way. “I’ve been blessed to have great coaches and mentors. I owe a lot to that,” Mauer said. “St. Paul’s a close-knit community, and I definitely learned from each of them and watched them play,” said
Mauer of Winfield, Monitor and Morris. Mauer’s Baseball Hall of Fame induction is set for Sunday, July 21, in Cooperstown, NY. Charles Hallman welcomes reader comments at challman@ spokesman-recorder.com.
10 February 15 - 21, 2024
Sports
Gopher outfielder fights the ‘rough patches’
spokesman-recorder.com
Lewis takes injuries in stride with a positive attitude
There are approximately 100 African American and other student-athletes of color this school year at the University of Minnesota. In an occasional series throughout the school year and sports year, the MSR will highlight many of these players. This week: Gopher softball player Breezy Burnett.
fter spending the last two off-seasons rehabbing from an injury, Royce Lewis this offseason was able to enjoy life once again. “I had a lot of fun,” Lewis told me at the Minnesota Twins annual media luncheon last month. “I got recently engaged [to Samantha Hobart]. It’s been Breezy Burnett Photo by Charles Hallman great to be spending time with “I just have to stay in a positive my family, and getting after it in mindset and trust in my process.” Florida for games against Washington, Georgia the gym and in the cages. “So, everything’s been truly Tech, Stanford, Georgia and LSU. The team’s second road trip of the season special. I’m ready to get going,” The Gophers’ 2024 season started last weekend in a tournament in San Diego, against UC also takes Burnett back to her home state— said Lewis. The Minnesota Twins infieldSanta Barbara, San Diego State, Stanford and she’s from Jacksonville, Florida, where the 5-7 er’s 2023 stat line: .309 batting Kentucky. This weekend they are in Clearwater, ■ See SOE on page 9 t’s hard to play softball outdoors in Minnesota in February and March. Therefore, the Minnesota Golden Gophers annually head to warmer locales to jump-start their season. “We’re about to be traveling for the next two months straight,” explained sophomore Breezy Burnett after a workout at the Gophers outdoor football practice facility on an uncharacteristically warm February afternoon. “We’re definitely ready for that.”
Royce Lewis in the clubhouse
Photo by Charles Hallman
“Everything’s been truly special. I’m ready to get going.” average, .548 slugging percent- success. Despite his limited age, 15 home runs and 52 RBI MLB experience, he played in 58 games played. And he like a seasoned veteran, eshomered in his first-ever post- pecially at the plate. “He was season at-bat, a two-run blast. so exceptional last year,” said The 6-0 Lewis played a Twins Manager Rocco Baldelli. huge role in the Twins’ 2023 ■ See VIEW on page 9
Two great games in the cities
he Minneapolis City and St. Paul City conferences featured two boys basketball games that went down to the wire last week. In Minneapolis, clutch freethrows by guards Poet Davis and James Underwood in the closing moments led the South Tigers to a 69-66 victory over the North Polars. Across the river, guard Dhimani Tucker took the inbounds pass, raced cross court, and netted a jumper as time expired, leading the Johnson Governors to a 63-62 win over the Harding Knights. Jumarion Weh led South with 23 points. Davis added 21. Zashon Rich’s 21 points and 13 from Jermaine Jones led the Polars. Johnson got a team-high 17 points from Deajohn Thomas and 10 from Kenny Turner. A’Jhon Douglas and Jeremiah Bryant led Harding with 19 and 12, respectively. It was quite the week in the Twin Cities. Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald welcomes reader comments at mcdeezy05@gmail.com. All photos by Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald.
Jumarion Weh (Minneapolis South) is guarded by Allen Hill (Minneapolis North) during a boys basketball game at South High School, Wednesday, February 7.
Zashon Rich (Minneapolis North) is pursued by Jamari Stewart Scott (Minneapolis South) during a boys basketball game at South High School, February 7.
St. Paul Johnson players Dhimani Tucker (with ball) and Daejohn Thomas during a boys basketball game against St. Paul Harding at Johnson High School, Thursday, February 8.
Poet Davis (Minneapolis South) is guarded by Zashon Rich (Minneapolis North) during a boys basketball game at South High School, February 7.
Nathaniel Chea (St. Paul Harding) watches as teammate Jeremiah Bryant guards Kenny Turner (St. Paul Johnson) during a boys basketball game at Johnson High School, February 8.
A’Jhon Douglas (St. Paul Harding) is guarded by Guarino Kamp (St. Paul Johnson) during a boys basketball game at Johnson High School, Thursday, February 8.
Mauer joins Winfield, Monitor and Morris in the Baseball Hall of Fame All played on the same St. Paul playgrounds
By Charles Hallman Sports Columnist
75 percent threshold (289) required for election in his first time on the Baseball Hall of oe Mauer this summer Fame ballot. He played his enjoins the short list of ath- tire 15-year career with Minletes we have covered their nesota (2004-2018). entire career who later made He also becomes the fourth the Hall of Fame in their particu- HOF from St. Paul. He, Dave lar sport: Lindsay Whalen, Seim- Winfield, Paul Monitor and Jack one Augustus and Maya Moore. Morris all played on the same The latter two are going into the city playgrounds such as Jimmy Women College Basketball Hall Lee and Oxford, and all grew up within two miles of each other. of Fame this April. “We all played down at OxMauer received 293 votes from Baseball Writers Asso- ford Playground and Jimmy ciation of America (BBWAA) Lee Rec Center,” recalled Maumembers, four more than the er during the January 23 Zoom
Glove honors and three AL batting titles, the only catcher in AL history to have done so. He ranks first on the Twins all-time list in doubles and times on base, and is second in games, hits and walks. media call, which included Making the Hall was virtuthe MSR, the day he received ally expected after his retireword that he was voted into ment, but going in on his first the Hall. “We all grew up in time eligible is historic given that city block. It is amazing.” the often fickle voters, all of Following is Mauer’s im- whom are baseball writers. pressive resume: 2009 Ameri- Winfield and Kirby Puckett can League MVP, six-time both were first-ballot electees All-Star, five-time Silver Slug- in 2000, and Rod Carew also ger Award winner, three Gold ■ See MAUER on page 9 Joe Mauer
“We all grew up in that city block. It is amazing.”
Courtesy of X