February 22, 2024 - MN Spokesman-Recorder

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Find Black History Month events on page 8.

Counting down to our 90th Anniversary

February 22 - 28, 2024

Vol. 90

No. 30

Phone: 612-827-4021 www.spokesman-recorder.com

OMG Studios:

a cutting-edge addition to the Twin Cities recording scene

By Chris Juhn Contributing Writer

redesign has transformed the Vandalia Tower building into one of the more desirable retail and office locations in St. Paul. Located at the corners of Vandalia Street and Wabash Avenue, in what was once the old King Koil Mattress factory, fresh ideas, visions, and new life have been breathed into this historic building. OMG Studios, one of the Tower’s newest tenants, is a large part of that transformation. It shares space with a community theater, event venue, photo studio, film studio, brewery, distillery, cannabis dispensary, coffee shop, and more. On Feb. 1, the studio held its grand opening as the crowd for this invite-only event stood in anticipation. The music of Thomasina Petrus and Thomas West filled the room as guests conversed throughout the new studio. Monique Linder, founder and CEO, spoke about the studio and thanked everyone who helped make it a reality. As Saint

By Abdi Mohamed Associate Editor

was no agreement between the union and the district. In an online statement, SPFE t. Paul educators are President Leah VanDassor toutgearing up for a possible ed in a news release the union’s strike after several ne- wins in the past decade toward gotiations with the district for class size limits and student increased pay and additional mental health support. She fursupport for students failed to ther stated that SPFE’s goal is bear any results. On Feb. 15, to build upon their progress to two-thirds of the Saint Paul help educators meet the living Federation of Educator’s 3,689 costs to stay in the district. members voted on whether to State law mandates that the authorize a strike against Saint unionized employees and the Paul Public Schools. Over 92 district bargain every two years. percent voted to strike if there ■ See EDUCATORS on page 5

(l-r) Founder Monique Linder, Thomasina Petrus (background), Councilwoman Mitra Jalali, and Mayor Melvin Carter Photo by Chris Juhn Paul Mayor Melvin Carter crossed the floor, Councilwoman Mitra Jalali and Chad Kulas, Linder stood, waiting in anticipation for the executive director of the Midway Chamber ribbon cutting for OMG Studios, along with ■ See OMG STUDIOS on page 5

Author examines roots of

AMERICAN RACISM K-12 education system has played a large role By Al Brown Assignment Editor

this indoctrination. Yacavone is the author of nine books, including two cos Blacks were migrat- authored with African American ing from the harsh scholar Henry Louis Gates Jr., labor conditions of who called “Teaching White Susouthern cotton fields to what premacy” “The most profoundly they thought would be an Uto- original cultural history in repian deliverance to anywhere cent memory.” else, many did not know the The contemporary headsickness of white supremacy wind of the anti-Black literature had already spread the world movement in our classrooms over, as if it were an airborne further highlights the need for

many Americans as possible, Black and white, because each analyzes problems from a completely different perspective, and I wanted to craft a book that people from diverse backgrounds would understand. I think this book is essential for everyone, regardless of background. In fact, I started this book as an accident. I was writing a different book. I had gotten some

Donald Vacavone’s “Teaching White Supremacy” is an overdue discussion. Photo by David Harris contagion. As alluded to in his book “Teaching White Supremacy,” author Donald Yacavone, lays out a stark roadmap into the complex phenomenon that has shaped world governments, their economies, educational standards and cultures. As other cultures pass down traditions like celebrations and religions, so too is whiteness, as a domineering aspect of existence, passed down in the teachings of white supremacy. No matter the economic positioning, nearly every child in America, as well as in other nations with a history of racism, have passed through a form of

Strike vote raises stakes in St. Paul Schools negotiations

continued dominance by the white racist culture over K-12 education, the main historic disseminator of white supremacy.

small grants to do a different book on the legacy of the antislavery movement and the way it helped form the modern Civil Rights Movement. I had gone MSR: Was this book meant through some historical records for a specific audience or and spent the better part of a meant to impact in different summer at a Harvard library. The first book I pulled out ways a white or Black audiof many was by Noah Webence? Yacavone: Most of the work ster, the famous author of the I’ve done is for an academic au- “American Dictionary.” And I was dience. Now, when I went to dumbfounded by what I read. work for Henry Louis Gates Jr., Like most of his colleagues who because of who he is and who wrote history textbooks before he writes for, and I’ve written a the Civil War, he followed a couple of books with him, I be- model, which was to focus on came accustomed to writing for the history of exploration, coloa different audience. nization, the American RevoluI had hoped to address as tion, the forming of the Con-

The G.I. Bill’s role in wealth inequality By Vickie Evans-Nash Contributing Writer

“The Second World War was the most significant shift in terms of how the country stitution, and each successive niversity of Minnesota so- thought about giving housing, presidential administration. ciologist Rose M. Brewer, education, and other resources That’s all there were—there Ph.D. has been research- to returning vets,” explains was no such thing as social history. There was no room in that ing inequality, racism, and social Brewer. This included policies model for the kinds of history justice since grad school. She that ensured educational scholthat we are now interested in. was on the board of United for arships, low-cost housing loans, It was very formal, very direct, a Fair Economy, a Boston orga- access to health care, and other benefits. nization where and relentless. she worked A c c e s s to these reMSR: Would you say the on wealth insources was attack on teaching Black His- equality. While she blocked for tory is simply a continuation serving, other Black veterans of white supremacy in our and board memby a provision classrooms? allowing states Yacavone: Absolutely. Be- bers focused to administer cause what these textbooks on wealth inbenefits. The revealed, what they taught stu- equality as it limited amount dents, was the essential domi- directly related of constructed nance and supremacy of people to racial excluhousing for of European descent and the sion. In 2006 them was in inferiority of everyone else. It’s this research Rose M. Brewer, Ph.D. Courtesy photo segregated aressential to them to continue culminated in eas with lower this model because this form of The Color of teaching is where true Ameri- Wealth: the U.S. Racial Divide, property values. And though detailing the history of the U.S. the GI Bill broadened employcanism is defined. racial wealth gap. ment opportunities, especially While Brewer and colleagues for those who received educaMSR: When would you say that white supremacy overtook have been writing about this tion and training, most Blacks the nation’s education system? persistent gap for decades, Ta- had to receive training from hisYacavone: Right from the Nehisi Coates’ 2014 article pub- torically Black colleges and univery beginning! It has never lished in The Atlantic, “The Case versities. “HBCUs were overbeen anything else in this coun- for Reparations,” brought new whelmed with the requests for try. You didn’t see a change attention to the subject. “Essen- admission. They just didn’t have in textbooks and approach to tially, I would say the core piece the resources to bring in hunteaching, relating to the history of the GI bill was a driver of the dreds of thousands of Black GIs of the United States, until the racial wealth gap,” says Brewer. for training,” Brewer explains. With WWII Some turned mid to late 1960s. ending, policy conto the more acNorthern MSR: So indoctrination versations began “Essentially, cessible colleges. Then, as has been meant for white and to center around I would say now, a college dehonoring returning Black students? the core gree was the surest Yacavone: Absolutely! Natu- soldiers for their rally it was meant to empower services. Approxipiece of the route to well-paying jobs, profesthe psyche of white students mately 1,000,000 GI bill was a sions African and occupawhile diminishing that of non- were driver of tions. “That could white students. Both affected, Americans whose the racial service during both move you not only but in opposite fashion. the First and Secin the middle class wealth but could actuMSR: Would you say that ond World Wars gap.” segregated ally make some of this “whiteness” is what Don- was by task and rank. those folk wealthy,” ald Trump has tapped into? says Brewer. Yacavone: You are right They included duties A limited number of Blacks on. And the importance of this like delivering supplies, driving book to me is that it explains delivery trucks, and serving as were able to move themselves the psyche drain that we are cooks. Just as they had during into prominent professional currently facing as a country, slavery, Blacks were doing the positions, but the vast major■ See WHITE menial tasks that fueled the U.S. ity were excluded. “Segregation, SUPREMACY on page 5 war effort. ■ See GI BILL on page 5

2 February 22 - 28, 2024

Health

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Fortifying heart health within our Black communities By Dr. Allyson Brotherson and Dr. Sharon Dykes On behalf of the Links, Inc. February is American Heart Month, and the Minneapolis/St. Paul Chapter of the Links, Incorporated is intentional about improving heart health in our communities. Heart disease is the number-one killer of women and disproportionately affects Black women and men. Medical problems that increase the risks of heart disease are quite common in Black communities, and include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and being overweight. These risk factors also increase your risk for related diseases, such as stroke and kidney disorders.

Increase self-awareness 6. Know your cholesterol numbers and work on normalizing them. Your goal is to keep your total cholesterol less than 200 and your lethal or bad cholesterol (LDL) less than 100. Cholesterol comes from two main sources: your body, which

and tips to abide by to help reduce your risk of heart disease. Keep in mind that feeling connected with others and having positive, close relationships with those who motivate and care are beneficial, so call a friend or loved one and let us get started.

Change your lifestyle 1. Be more physically active. Did you know? Aim for at least 2½ hours of For Black women aged 20 physical activity each week—just years and older: 30 minutes a day, five days a 1) 8 of 10 are overweight. week. Do muscle strengthening 2) 5 of 10 have high blood exercises two days a week. Can’t pressure. carve out a lot of time in your 3) 3 of 10 have high cholesterol. day? Try 10 or 15 minutes a few 4) 1 of 10 has diabetes. times a day. Call or text a friend For Black men aged 20 to walk with you. Take a dance years and older: class or an online fitness class. 1) 7 of 10 are overweight. 2. Eat a healthy diet. We tend 2) 4 out of 10 have high to eat like our friends and famblood pressure. ily, so ask others close to you to 3) 3 out of 10 have high join in your effort to eat healthcholesterol. ier. Fill your plate with colorful 4) 2 of 10 have diabetes. fruits and vegetables, chicken, Here are some simple rules fish and nuts. Avoid sweetened

foods and drinks that are high in sugar and use water instead. Try to drink eight glasses of water per day. 3. Lose weight. Start by increasing physical activity and assuming a healthy diet. The key to losing weight is to burn more calories than consumed. 4. Manage stress and improve sleep. Reducing stress helps your heart health. Set goals with a friend or family member to do a relaxing activity every day, like walking, yoga, meditation, or participation in an online stress-management program together. Sleeping 7–8 hours a night also helps to improve heart health. Instead of looking at your devices such as the phone or TV before bed, relax by listening to music, reading, or taking a bath. 5. Quit smoking! If you smoke, talk with your doctor to discuss cessation strategies.

weight and diet can help to reduce high blood pressure. If these lifestyle methods fail, your doctor may prescribe medications to help you to lower your blood pressure to prevent your risk of heart disease. It is important to take these medications as they are prescribed.

The risks of heart disease are quite common in Black communities and include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and being overweight.

makes all the cholesterol necessary for living, and your food intake. By choosing your diet wisely and avoiding foods that are high in cholesterol, you can maintain healthy levels. 7. Manage your blood pressure. High blood pressure is caused when the pressure of blood pushing against the walls of your blood vessels gets too high. This condition is called hypertension. Controlling stress,

8. Control your blood sugar. Blood glucose is an important fuel for your body, but too much of it is toxic to your body and can result in diabetes. Reduce your intake of sweets and sweetened beverages. If you already have diabetes, your health provider will prescribe appropriate medications.

Dr. Allyson Brotherson and Dr. Sharon Dykes are members of the Minneapolis/St. Paul Chapter of the Links, Incorporated Health and Human Services Facet. Dr. Brotherson is a family physician and chair of the Department of Family and Community Medicine at Hennepin Healthcare. Dr. Dykes is a colorectal surgeon and The Links, Incorporated is an owner and CEO of Minnesota Cointernational, not-for-profit cor- lon and Rectal Surgical Specialists.

Obituary

2823 E. Franklin Ave., MPLS & 317 E. 38th St., MPLS www.seward.coop

Johnnie Ruth Jones

Sunrise: February 19, 1934 — Sunset: January 29, 2024

A

fter a wonderful, blessed life dedicated to God and family, Johnnie Ruth Jones passed early Monday morning on January 29, 2024. Johnnie Ruth was born on February 19, 1934 to her parents, Levelle and Maxie Jones in Rose Hill, Mississippi. Johnnie accepted Christ early at New Prospect Baptist Church. She graduated from Heidelberg’s Colored Schools, Jasper County, Mississippi, and later migrated to Minneapolis, MN, with her family. Upon arrival to Minneapolis, Johnnie and family quickly joined Sabathani Bap-

poration, established in 1946. The membership consists of more than 17,000 professional women of African descent. The Minneapolis/St. Paul Chapter is committed to promoting better health for all of us by taking an aggressive stance against the diseases that impair and derail our lives.

tist Church (now Greater Friendship Missionary Baptist Church). Johnnie had a long working career at Falconer’s and Vogue Cleaners of Minneapolis, and Control Data of Bloomington, MN. Johnnie retired early at age 55 from Control Data and then went to volunteer with Search Beyond Adventures chaperoning people with disabilities on trips to Canada, California, Branson, Missouri, etc. Johnnie was a huge Minnesota Twins fan and enjoyed taking her children and grandchildren to the Twins games. She was an avid gardener who shared her vegetables with church, family and friends. Johnnie loved her large family and is preceded in death by her parents, siblings, son Marvin Victory Jones, and grandson Marcus Anthony Jones. She is survived by children Malcolm Jones (Amy), Harry Jones, Maxie Rockymore, and Cathy Stephens; siblings Levelle Jones (Laura) of Minneapolis and Ruby Bishop (Arthur) of Chicago; and a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Funeral services Saturday, February 24, 2024, 1:00 pm (Visitation), 2 pm (Service): Greater Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, 2600 E. 38th St. Minneapolis.

Throughout history, communities of color have used cooperatives as an organizing tool to fight oppression and build economic solidarity.

Round up at the register at Seward Co-op this February to help fund “Dreamland on 38th Street”– an

incubator for African American entrepreneurs, community gathering and event space, and a guided self-study community archive to support people to dig deeper into and document their own story.

Follow Us!

Join Addie in a celebration of Black History Month through an in-person dinner series! $5 | FREE for Co-op owners Friendship store classroom RSVP at seward.coop/events

Feb. 11

Feb. 25

Shrimp Creole with Andouille Sausage

Vegetarian Jambalaya

February 22 - 28, 2024

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1 in 8 women will have a breast cancer diagnosis This makes preventive care an important part of your health. myGenetics, a community health research study by HealthPartners, gives you the power to better understand your genetic health risks – so we can help detect, prevent and treat them before they arise.

Join the no-cost research study and unlock a healthier future healthpartners.com/msrgenes

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4 February 22 - 28,community's 2024

Business

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8 basic steps for building a budget Sponsored Content

5) Set some limits. Some expenses remain the same each month, like rent or mortgage payments, while others like groceries and entertainment are more flexible. Set spending limits for your flexible expenses, although you may plan for celebrations and treats so your budget doesn’t feel too restrictive.

Budgeting can be a useful tool to help you reach your financial goals. A budget can help you keep track of your spending, avoid and get out of debt, limit overspending, pay bills on time and build savings habits. Let’s explore how a budget can benefit you and how to build one:

8) Find ways to cut costs. Small recurring expenses go unnoticed, but they can add up. Scan your bank account and credit card statements for recurring charges and evaluate whether they are worth continuing. Adjusting to a budget can take time, it’s about finding the right balance of spending and saving. You might discover some of your spending limits are too low, while others are higher than they need to be. You can always review your budget against your expenses and rethink how you’ve set it up. Keep working at it—that’s the best way for your budget to be effective.

6) Use budgeting tools to track spending. This can be as simple as using paper and pen to write down your income and spending categories, enter1) Start with the basics. A budget helps you figure for medical or education tainment; and determining ward saving as well. ing numbers in a computer out how much money to set needs? Understanding your how much you spend in each spreadsheet or using budgetaside for regular expenses like past financial habits can help category per month. Now that 4) Pay down debt. ing apps—like Chase’s Budget Your plan should also in- feature in the mobile app and rent, mortgage, bills, groceries you make the proper adjust- you’ve crunched the numbers and can see how much money clude a list of money you owe, on chase.com—that are linked For more information, click and entertainment. As you’re ments for this year’s budget. is coming in and going out, you including balances and inter- to your accounts. on the code or visit chase.com/ planning your budget, think can start making your budget. est rates. Evaluate your debt back to Name: last year and identify 2) Create your budget. personal/financial-goals/budget. me: Name: Name: payoff goals against savings any trends in your expenses 7) Adjust as needed. Name: This takes a few simple goals and prioritize the most and any unexpected costs steps including calculating 3) Don’t forget to save. Update your budget when ddress: Address: Address: Address: Make a place in your budget critical ones. Any extra money your income or goals change. that surprised or challenged your take-home pay; gatherAddress: you. Was there a particular ing credit card and bank state- for savings. You can set aside you may receive can also go If you’re using tracking tools, y/State/Zip: City/State/Zip: City/State/Zip: City/State/Zip: expense that pressured your ments and receipts for the money from each take-home toward your debt payoff plan— you should know when you’re City/State/Zip: budget? Has your take home past few months; organizing pay period and use some paying off an additional bill or getting close to spending limfunds from holiday bonuses, debt earlier than planned can its or if you have more money pay changed since last year? expenses into categories, such one: Phone: Phone: Phone: Email Email Address: Email Address: Email Address: Address: andAddress: tax returns to- help ease budget pressures. Email Are there new recurringPhone: bills as rent, groceries, and enter- cash gifts than expected.

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February 22 - 28, 2024

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OMG STUDIOS

with a sound engineer. Studio B is for podcasts. Studio C is a Continued from page 1 creative space. The studio retains historic features from the old matof Commerce. tress factory since it is on the Linder then organized tours National Register of Historic of the studio for attendees. The Places. This caused a forced OMG layout offers three differ- merging of the old style with ent studios. Studio A includes a the new: the new technology of green room, sound lounge and LED lighting and sound booths, ing provides with the old wood studios, which were taken from recording studio, and comes and the feeling the aged build- paneling. The thick doors to the Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis’s

The studio retains historic features from the old mattress factory since it is on the National Register of Historic Places.

EDUCATORS

old studio, were just one of the many touches that enhanced the vibes of the studio. This new venue became home to two OMG Media Solutions companies: OMG Studios and KZMO HD. It also houses Innovation Lab, a youth music and art development program with seven community partners—MN Humanities, Ujamaa Place, City of St. Paul, Black MN

working directly with students in special education programs. Continued from page 1 She said that many students in the district are struggling with issues such as suicidal ideation and homelessness, which Negotiations between the two underlines the need for more began last May, which led to social workers and experts to them jointly filing for mediation help students navigate these in December. Since their filing, issues. there have been five mediation “We have a lot of kids strugsessions between the union gling with just day-to-day life,” and the district, with another she said. “There’s always somesession scheduled for Feb. 23. thing that can help us, and when you don’t have enough Need for mental health and support, it makes it difficult.” special ed support a priority The union has identified its Solidarity between teachers top priorities as more staff for and support staff mental health teams, lowerAlthough the possible strike ing employee insurance costs, focuses on the needs of supproviding additional resources port staff such as educator asfor staff working with students sistants and mental health staff, with special needs, and increas- teachers have stood next to ing compensation. their colleagues to advocate Shantella Barnes is the vice for their wage increase. Barnes president of SPFE and has stated that if educators across been an educator for 26 years, the board don’t stand their

ground, the district will not see how serious their demands are. “I’ve been amping up people in our building,” Barnes said. “If the teachers weren’t fighting with us right now, we would be alone. We have people who are supporting one another, so we gotta fight. When we fight, we win.” Michael Houston, a math teacher at Harding High School and the 2023 Minnesota Teacher of the Year, said that he finds it ironic that the district’s administrators were able to find funding to give themselves a raise but are out of cash when it comes time to discuss teachers’ and support staffs’ wages. “Over the past several negotiation cycles, they use the same tactic,” he said, “that they don’t have enough funding, that they’re in a deficit. But if you look, ultimately they end up in a surplus.”

Houston stated that sup- mentors and advisors to their port staff go above and be- students’ lives. In a message to parents, yond for their students by making home visits and riding Houston said that advocating for educators will provide a better learning environment for their children. “I want the parents to know that we’re not doing this for selfish gains, but it’s difficult in today’s climate to be a teacher because our kids have many more needs, especially coming back from Covid, than ever before. We’ve lost a lot of good quality teachers because of the demands of the job and what we do daily.”

WHITE SUPREMACY

MSR: What’s behind Governor Ron DeSantis attacking the textbooks in Florida? Vacavone: DeSantis is still quoting from textbooks that date back to the 1950s that argued that slavery was a benefit in that slaves were well treated and learned trades. This is not

Vacavone: Anything that is the least bit supportive of African Americans is dismissed and denigrated as a troublemaking theology and aimed at harming whites. They attack anything that is African American history, which is American history.

Continued from page 1

and Trump is one of the greatest manifestations of this patriotic whiteness.

Obama was elected president, twice no less, it put a cataclysmic fear into about 40 percent of the American public who could not understand how that was possible, because it flew in the face of everything they knew and everything they had been taught, and it was just intolerable.

MSR: How serious a problem is white supremacy? Vacavone: It can’t get more serious than white supremacy. It competes with the American emphasis on democracy, and of course so much of American democracy is hypocrisy. Thomas Jefferson, for example—no one is more closely associated with the promotion of democracy, yet he was a slave owner.

MSR: Is there a possibility that we will one day eradicate racism? Vacavone: I made a presentation at an event involving Professor Gates in which he asked a similar question: How does this end, given what you’ve written and discovered? What I said was, “As long as we’re in this iron cage of race, we’ll never escape it. MSR: Did our educational As long as we define people by system prepare us for a non- the fictional creation of races, we can never escape its conwhite president? Vacavone: Once Barack tours.”

GI BILL

Continued from page 1

racism, white supremacy kept us out,” explains Brewer “It was just the public discriminatory policies of the government— redlining, blocking some areas only for Blacks, and you couldn’t get loans.” In Minnesota, this was done through restrictive covenants, clauses in the deed that prevented the home from being sold to African Americans and Jews. Even those who were able to obtain the resources to buy a home couldn’t buy in prominent areas. “Even though on paper Minnesota was more open, the

practices were the same as throughout the country, and that included bankers and realtors who absolutely refused to sell to Black folks who were looking for homes,” Brewer says. The economic gap between Whites and Blacks only broadened. “This is a significant aspect of how the white middle class came to be,” explains Brewer. “They got access to housing that acquired equity, it built wealth for them, and they were able to pass it on to their progeny.” Instead of being honored for their part in Germany’s defeat, Black veterans returned to the same type of exclusionary practices in the U.S. Medgar Evers was a WWII veteran who

Collective, MN Arts Council, Minneapolis Foundation, and Live4Love Charities. OMG Studios is located at 550 Vandalia Street, Suite 220B. Visit them on the web at https://omgmediasolutions.com/. Chris Juhn welcomes reader comments to cjuhn@spokesmanrecorder.com.

district has asked them to pay for the requested services out of their budget. This includes hiring more mental health staff and those involved with restorative justice work. “The district has said they set aside $12.4 million to settle our contract, and that’s their small wage offer that they’ve put on the table,” she said. “I do not believe it is right and fair to cost those programs, skills and services that our students need against our contract.” Schatzlein stated that the information regarding an intentto-strike notice would be forthNext steps in the process coming when asked if there is In a February 16 news con- a projected start to the strike. ference, Erica Schatzlein, an The union is required by law SPFE board member, highlight- to give the district at least 10 ed the current gulf between the days’ notice before the first day on the bus to ensure they ar- district’s offer and the union’s of the strike. rive at school on time. He said request. She stated that the Abdi Mohamed welcomes that educators have tradition- union is ready to settle in their ally played a large role outside meeting if the district makes an reader comments at amohamed@ the classroom as coaches, acceptable offer. However, the spokesman-recorder.com.

“If the teachers weren’t fighting with us right now, we would be alone.”

ation was reversed with this University’s Hutchins Center being a dominant Black culture for African and African Ameriand the ancestors of whites can Research. The author and worked for free for hundreds editor of nine books, the winof years, rest assured whites ner (with Henry Louis Gates, Jr.) would be demanding every- of an NAACP Image Award for “The African Americans: Many thing and more. Rivers to Cross,” and received MSR: What new projects the W.E.B. Du Bois Medal, Harare you working on? vard’s highest award for African Vacavone: One in particu- American studies. He is presentlar, involves a collection of ing two free admission discus16 essays on African Ameri- sions in St. Paul titled “History cans. It’s a fascinating collec- Education, Race, and the Forgtion that puts emphasis on ing of Our National Identity” the ubiquitousness of African Thursday, March 7, 6:30-8:30 Americans in every aspect of p.m. at Walker West Academy, the culture. And is designed 760 Selby Avenue, and Saturto show how much African day, March 9, 11a.m-12:30 just ridiculous but obscene! This MSR: Would you agree American culture is truly p.m at Minnesota History Cenposition is just to reaffirm the that a part of white suprem- American culture. African ter, 345 W. Kellogg Blvd. Free teachings of white dominance acy is to oppose reparations? Americans are not something reception and book signing to through textbooks. Vacavone: Reparations are you add on to the true story follow. dismissed by whites as some- of America—it is America! MSR: Where does Criti- thing to make them feel guilty. Al Brown welcomes reader Dr. Donald Yacovone is a comments to abrown@spokescal Race Theory fit into all of And you can bet every penny you’ve ever had that if the situ- lifetime associate at Harvard man-recorder.com. this?

“As long as we’re in this iron cage of race, we’ll never escape it.”

he was assassinated. “There are a whole slew of those kinds of activists that had been deployed to Europe to fight for the rights of the German Jews in that period against Hitler but returned to find Jim Crow still in place.” The NAACP tried shifting the laws to make the benefits accessible for Blacks, but there was no commitment from the government to enforce them. Currently, “Discrimination is technically off the books, but the exclusions still continue,” explains Brewer. “That still bedevils the country, and it certainly bedevils the state of Minnesota returned to a Mississippi that and the city of Minneapolis with hadn’t changed in his absence. the divide between homeownAs a response to fighting for ership being as dramatic as it is.” equality for Blacks in the U.S., In November of 2021, U.S.

“Even though on paper Minnesota was more open, the practices were the same as throughout the country.”

Sen. Raphael Warnock (DGA) introduced the G.I. Bill Restoration Act, legislation to compensate the descendants of veterans whose parents or grandparents were denied grants, loans, and educational opportunities offered through the GI Bill. The bill is currently in Congress. In comparison, a white co-author of Brewer’s book whose father purchased a house through the GI bill passed it down to her and her siblings. The equity in the home allowed them to pay for their college education and buy houses of their own. Economists have been trying to calculate the income Blacks have missed out on due to slave labor, blocked access to benefits from the New Deal, the

SUBSCRIBE TO THE MSR TODAY go to spokesman-recorder.com call 612-827-4021, or scan code

GI Bill, and other exclusionary practices. “I think it’s incalculable about how much was lost when so many were not able to access those resources and ultimately in their passing on to their progeny and their descendants,” says Brewer. If passed, Warnock’s legislation would provide housing support and educational benefits that were promised to all veterans, to be accessed by their descendants. But there was no success when pushing for this legislation again in 2023. “It’s still there. Just as the George Floyd legislation, it hasn’t moved an iota.” Vickie Evans-Nash welcomes reader comments to vnash@ spokesman-recorder.com.

6 February 22 - 28, 2024

Arts & Culture

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‘Purple Rain’ musical set to debut in Minneapolis before Broadway

three Grammys (plus three The indelible global impact American Music Awards and a of ‘Purple Rain’ Both the motion picture couple of BRITs), has now sold “Purple Rain” and the accompa- 26 million copies worldwide, nying soundtrack turn 40 years and still sits on an array of lists old this summer. The movie ranking it as one of the greatBy Tony Kiene debuted on July 26, 1984, in est albums of all time. Staff Writer Hollywood, where it was reWith “Purple Rain,” Prince ported that fans with seats to distinguished himself as one In the past few years, there one of The Jackson’s upcom- of only three artists in history has been a profusion of sucing Victory Tour concerts at (Elvis Presley and the Beatles cessful Broadway musicals that Dodgers Stadium were look- being the others), to have the chronicle the lives and times of ing to swap those for tickets number-one single, numbersome of the world’s most iconic to the world premiere screen- one album, and number-one musical artists. Tina Turner, Miing of “Purple Rain” at Mann’s film all at the same time. chael Jackson, and The TemptaChinese Theatre. tions are among them. The next day, famed Chi- Additional details forthcoming In January, we learned that cago Sun-Times critic the late The pre-Broadway premiere the North Star state’s favorite Roger Ebert called it, “One of of “Purple Rain: The Musison, Prince Rogers Nelson, will the best combinations of mu- cal” will hit the State Theater soon receive a similar stage stage in 2025 as part of the sic and drama I’ve ever seen.” treatment. Rather than covering Likewise, writing for The Bank of America Broadway on his life story, this endeavor will everybody literally dancing in musical, with dialogue from zer Prize for Drama. playwright Slated to direct “Purple City Sun, Armond White de- Hennepin 2024-2025 season, adapt Prince’s 1984 motion pic- the streets in celebration of Brooklyn-based Jacobs-Jenkins Rain: The Musical” is Lileana clared that “Prince is as incen- alongside classics like “Les Miture “Purple Rain” for the bright seeing Purple Rain transform Branden that is based on the original Blain-Cruz, resident direc- diary an icon as has ever ex- sérables” and “Parade,” as well lights of Broadway. It was an- from screen to stage.” Moreover, this is not the first screenplay written by William tor of the Lincoln Center isted on film,” possessing the as newer offerings such as nounced Feb. 7 that before its run on Broadway and beyond, time Hennepin Ave. will stage a Blinn (“Brian’s Song,” “Roots,” Theater in New York City, “genuine musicianship, sing- “Some Like it Hot,” “Life of Pi,” “Purple Rain: The Musical” will world premiere of a celebrated “Fame”), and the film’s director, and winner of the Drama ing and performance style to and “Kimberly Akimbo.” League’s 2022 Founders match all the musical legends.” get its world premiere at the drama or musical before its trek Albert Magnoli. The film earned $13 million Performance dates and more Wolf’s Broadway and tour- Award for Excellence in dihistoric State Theatre in Minne- to one of Broadway’s 40-plus professional theaters. In July ing credits include “Fiddler On recting. Blain-Cruz’s direct- on its opening weekend and details on “Purple Rain: The Musiapolis in the spring of 2025. “We are thrilled to pres- 1997, the Orpheum debuted the Roof,” “That Championship ing credits include the Tony took in more than $70 mil- cal” will be coming soon. To learn ent ‘Purple Rain’ in its home- Disney’s “The Lion King” be- Season,” and “Once,” as well as Award- nominated “The Skin lion that summer, while Prince more about how you can secure town next year before it fore it moved on to the storied jukebox musicals highlighting of Our Teeth;” both the Obie walked away with the Acad- tickets in advance, visit the Henmakes its way to Broadway,” New Amsterdam Theatre along the careers of Carole King and Award-winning “Marys Sea- emy Award for Best Original nepin Theatre Trust at HennepinTheatreTrust.org/Broadway. The Band. cole” and “The Death of the Song Score. stated Hennepin Theatre West 42nd St. in New York. At the same time, the Jacob-Jenkins, the 2014 Last Black Man in the Entire Trust President and CEO Todd Tony Kiene welcomes reader Obie Award winner for Best World;” and Toni Morrison’s soundtrack spent 24 weeks at Duesing. “As the birthplace of Who’s involved so far Two-time Tony Award-win- New American Play, is also a “The Bluest Eye,” staged at the number one on the Billboard comments at tkiene@spokesthe legendary musician and chart, earned Prince his first man-recorder.com. songwriter, Minnesota will see ner Orin Wolf will produce the two-time finalist for the Pulit- Guthrie Theater in 2017.

“Minnesota will see everybody literally dancing in the streets in celebration of seeing ‘Purple Rain’ transform from screen to stage.”

Hollywood comes to North Minneapolis By Abdi Mohamed Associate Editor

How it all came together Hayden’s collaborative relationships with Howard, Ross, With a red carpet recep- and Ellis-Taylor over the years tion, a bright marquee, and a created the opportunity for star-studded panel, attendees them to partake in this event. of the Reel Revolution North Hayden first worked with Acadevent at the Capri Theater were emy Award nominee Howard treated to a slice of tinsel town on “Their Eyes Were Watching Saturday afternoon, Feb. 17 as God” and reunited on the set of they sat in on a panel discussion “Hustle & Flow.” He’s also worked that included Terrence Howard alongside Ross for over 20 years (“Empire”) Yolonda Ross (“The on projects such as “Stranger InChi”), and Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor side,” “The Chi” and “Whitney.” (“Origin”). Ellis-Taylor, the Academy Organized by WestBone Award-nominated actress, particProductions, with support from ipated in the event virtually, while City of Lakes Entertainment and Howard and Ross were in person. Minnesota Humanities Center, In past years, Searcy has held the event highlighted the grow- events locally to connect filming opportunities taking place in makers, particularly those of colMinnesota’s film industry and of- or, to industry veterans who can fered the opportunity to discuss help shed light on how one can the trailblazing careers of some land a career in film. Saturday’s event focused on how actors of Hollywood’s leading actors. The panel discussion was could break into the industry and co-moderated by WestBone’s carve out a lane for themselves. founder Leonard Searcy, a producer and actor in Minne- Lessons imparted to actors sota, who has organized several With Hayden and Searcy networking opportunities for moderating, the three actors on metro area filmmakers. Joining the panel recounted their first him on stage as a moderator auditions and projects as workand co-host of the event was ing actors. They helped shed industry veteran Van Hayden light on how they were able to whose decades-long career has land some of their memorable led to work on several television roles and imparted wisdom to shows and feature films across the aspiring actors in the crowd the country. who listened intently.

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They also imparted the lessons they’ve learned about themselves and how they’ve chosen to navigate an industry that has historically marginalized and misrepresented Black people. “What I’m trying to do is change the environment that I work in,” Ellis-Taylor said. “Particularly in how it affects Black women. Black women are expected to change themselves

son, like outwardly emotional,” she stated. “I would think a lot; I would write a lot, but I would never share any feelings. I never even showed much feelings, and stuff came out during that film.” During the Q&A portion, Howard was asked about Taraji P. Henson’s recent comments about the pay gap in Hollywood between white and Black actors. Howard affirmed Henson’s

me $150,000. Same agency, wanted to help the next gennegotiating with the same Fox,” eration that was coming up the he said. ranks,” Hayden shared.

Highlighting Minnesota as a future film hub Hayden made mention of the state’s recent expansion of its film tax credit after lawmakers increased the 25 percent tax credit cap from $5 million to $25 million which has since rolled over, creating a $50 million ceiling. He shared that the passage of the tax incentive is a tool that can be used to help shape the perspective of Minnesota. “What we’re trying to do is we’re trying to change the narrative of what America knows about Minnesota, thinks about Minnesota, and what might be capable in Minnesota,” Hayden said. Searcy echoed the sentiment and hoped that the event would (l-r) Yolonda Ross, Leonard Searcy, Van Hayden, and Terrence Howard Photo by Chris Juhn help bring momentum to the state. “What this moment does is it Hayden worked with Weath- injects an abundance of excitefrom top to bottom, their hair, comments and shared that he their skin, their bodies to con- had sued Fox and its affiliates for ers over the years and served as ment in the film industry,” Searcy $120 million over “Empire,” the a committee co-chair with him said. “It’s a kickoff to all the opform to this Hollywood ideal.” Ross shared what it was like musical drama series that starred on the Directors Guild of America. portunities and all of the really for her to take on the attributes the two and ran for six seasons. Weathers was one of the first calls cool and eclectic things that are “They were paying these Hayden made when putting to- coming to Minnesota because of of her characters and the difficulty she had in shedding those white individuals from “Big gether the event at the Capri and the passing of the incentive.” emotions when she was off the Bang Theory” two to three Weathers was quick to say yes. million dollars an episode and set of “Stranger Inside.” “He had a generosity of spirit, Abdi Mohamed welcomes “Coming from a smaller place, they had only one-third of the and he had a generosity of com- reader comments to amohamed@ I was not a very emotional per- ratings that we had. They paid passion, and above all else, he spokesman-recorder.com.

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Celebration of Carl Weathers The Reel Revolution North event originally featured Carl Weathers as a speaker alongside the other celebrity panelists, but due to his Feb. 1 passing, the event became a celebration of his storied career and legacy.

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SATURDAY, MARCH 2 | 12-3 PM Join our panel of successful women as they share their insights and inspire you to unlock your full potential. Learn how to tap into your inner magic and rise above systemic barriers to achieve your goals. THE AFTERNOON INCLUDES SHOPPING WITH LOCAL VENDORS, NETWORKING, GAMES, FOOD, MUSIC, AND MORE!

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Opinion

February 22 - 28, 2024

7

Celebrating Black History Month By Dr. John E. Warren The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint Newspaper

An unwinnable situation led to a racist Electoral College

By Wim Laven

that have been removed from our bodies to be placed on our minds. We have the ability to remove ourselves from poverty This year, perhaps more than by using the tools in our hands. ever, we need to be especially We must remember that we mindful of Black History. This now possess everything that Dr. time of banning books from lo- Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke of cal libraries, especially those that when in his 1957 speech he said, tell of the history and struggle of “Give us the ballot and we will Black Americans against slavery place the right people in office and racism, pose a threat to both to in essence further our cause.” our presence and our future. It has often been said that if It’s time to honor you don’t know where you come the gift of Black from, you will have no idea of where you are going. Well, AfriHistory with our can Americans in particular must own personal remember that we are here today because of strong ancestors contributions. who did not allow the circumstances under which they lived Today, so many of us have to snuff out their dreams of a future for themselves and their not because we will not use that which we do have. We have freedescendants. We must remind ourselves dom of movement, of thought, that we are not to be defined by and how we use our minds. Yet, others; that we are not disadvan- so many choose to squander taged or handicapped; that we these freedoms on how others are born with a right to equal- tell us we should think and dress ity and that we have always and what we should be with demanded equity even though the few dollars that so many of others have tried to deny it to us. us waste on things that are not necessary. We have freedom of We are “We The People.” We must not allow the chains worship, yet so many of us don’t

matic impacts on outcomes. lieved in racial prejudice—white Unfortunately, sometimes supremacy—which thoroughly In life people face many in life we face dilemmas where supported a slave-based agrimoral dilemmas. The challenge winning is not obtainable. In cultural system. of making choices when differ- popular culture this is someThere was no winning. The ent values are in competition is times referred to as Kobayashi parties (the North and South) not easy. Maru, a reference to a training were not going to change the It is easy to imagine this exercise in Star Trek with a no- minds of the other side. It is remarkable, and ugly, to read happening between parents win scenario. in living rooms after children The creation of the U.S. about this triumphant and aphave gone to bed. One says, Constitution in some ways is a palling part of U.S. history. “We should invest in Lockheed product of such dilemmas, the But a belief in the need for Martin, Boeing, and Northrop starkest being the existence of and a commitment to unity held Grumman because war is a chattel slavery in some states. the day. Of course, I have a bigrowth industry,” and the other Slave states regarded Black ased take, as everyone does; says, “I don’t want our retire- people as property; states that either you think slavery is morment to be paid from the blood had rejected slavery regarded ally repugnant, or you do not. than their white counterparts in Black people as people, but The Founders clearly concluded By Stacy M. Brown of innocent people.” 2019-20. It is true that in many years even those states were willing that no compromise means no In Alaska, Black women had The startling and enduring so-called “defense contractors” to settle to form the first mod- Constitution. three times the homicide rate differences in murder rates beare a good investment because ern democracy with an actual The Electoral College was of white women in 1999-2003, tween Black and white women of their long-term predictable constitution. established to execute the and twice the homicide rate of in the United States have been government contracts, and it compromise. There would not white women in 2019-20. Of highlighted in a new analysis is also true that Lockheed Marbe a direct democracy for a The equality the 30 states included in the published in the ”Lancet Medinumber or reasons, the least of tin makes products like Hellfire analysis, eight states (Oklahoma, cal Journal, ” which serves as of “one person, which being a negation to the missiles that kill innocent civilMissouri, Pennsylvania, Tennesan eye-popping reminder that ians, just like all weapons and one vote” would principle: one person, one vote. Malcolm X’s well-known obsersee, Florida, New Jersey, North Many people would be ammunition contractors do. avoid the quesCarolina, and Texas) had no vations on the struggles Black counted towards representaIn the example provided, tions created by change in the disparity across women in America endure. there are solutions. One option tion but without the privilege In one of his most famous the 20 years of inclusion. a system where of casting a vote. The special is to find more ethical investIn six states (Indiana, Georgia, lectures delivered over 60 years electors would represent the ment options; another is to some votes Maryland, Nevada, Alaska and ago, Malcolm X declared, “The population, and this would balchange retirement plans to necount more Virginia) the disparity decreased, most disrespected person in cessitate a need for less monance between the interests of than others. with the largest decrease in America is the Black woman. the North and the South. etary accumulation to reach fiMaryland, where the homicide The most unprotected person At that time, it was a balnancial targets. Maybe another rate among Black women was in America is the Black woman. option would be committing to U.S. history as taught in ancing act. The issue of slavery four times higher than among The most neglected person in pressure defense contractors some districts teaches about was avoided or at least put on white women in 1999-2003, and legislators to end practices the 3/5ths Compromise as a hold. Other concessions were America is the Black woman.” decreasing to two times higher Those words still echo today that kill innocent civilians or the great achievement. It was a written into the Constitution in 2019-20. For 10 states (Arand are especially meaningful abolition of war, since it threat- solution between delegates to prevent the abolition of the as this new data has revealed kansas, Kansas, Illinois, Kenfrom Northern and Southern slave trade, but only for 20 ens all human life. disturbing trends in violence tucky, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Moral dilemmas are a type of states at the Constitutional years. against Black women. Missouri, New York, South James Madison wrote, “It conflict, and parties have choic- Convention in 1787 that slaves The “Lancet” report, reCarolina, and Wisconsin), the es in how they choose (or not) would be counted as 3/5ths of seems now to be pretty well disparity increased. leased as African Americans to engage with them. Avoid- a person for determining taxa- understood that the real difing conflict is a choice, just like tion and representation in the ference of interests lies not observe Black History Month “Notably, Black womcompromising, collaborating, House of Representatives. between the large and small 2024, analyzed homicide rates competing, or accommodatWhile one side held that but between the northern and among Black women aged 25 en are murdered six ing are strategic options. No slavery directly contradicted southern states. The institution to 44 across 30 states. The times more often, on strategy is guaranteed to win liberty, they also believed in of slavery and its consequences study, based on data collected average, than their between 1999 and 2020 by the or achieve desired results, but limited government and prop- form the line of discrimination.” white peers.” The consequence was very Centers for Disease Control and strategic choices can have dra- erty rights. The other side bePrevention, highlights a stark real. The compromise gave the One of the key findings of South extra representation in reality: Black women in this age group are disproportionately the research is the alarming inthe House of Representatives, murdered compared to their crease in firearm-related homiwhich also translated into exwhite counterparts. cides, with women in the USA tra votes in the Electoral ColIn 2020, the homicide rate having 2.44 times the odds of lege. Denying others the rights, among Black women was 11.6 firearm-involved homicides in benefits and equality that you per 100,000, a stark contrast to 2019-20 compared to 1999enjoy is prejudice. Prejudice the rate of three per 100,000 2003. This trend is disproporbased on race is racism. The question is not purely among white women. Shock- tionately concentrated among historical, however. One can ingly, this inequity has remained Black women in every region of easily explain the racist roots; virtually unchanged since 1999, the country. “Notably, Black women are indeed, the U.S. was built on prompting concerns about the murdered six times more often, efficacy of ongoing efforts to submissions@spokesman-recorder.com the backs of slave labor. And on average, than their white address racial and structural inone may also point to the peers, ” the researchers wrote. equities. Civil War and expansion of civil “Further, Black women residing The study revealed disturbrights—steps to address the racist past. The Electoral Col- ing trends at the state level, in the Midwest and Northeast lege, however, still operates as with racial inequities in homi- were more likely to be killed a barrier against the principle cide rates increasing in 11 states with a firearm than Black womsince 1999. Wisconsin emerged en residing in any other area of of “one person, one vote.” In 2016, for example, Wyo- as the state with the highest ra- the country. Importantly, we found the ming has three electoral votes cial inequity, where Black womsubmissions@spokesman-recorder.com greatest inequities are in areas en aged 25-44 were 20 times and a population of 586,107, of the country where concenmore likely to die by homicide while California has 55 electoral votes and 39,144,818 residents; votes from Wyo- losing presidential candidate in avoid the questions created ming carried 3.6 times more U.S. history, but the candidate by a system where some votes influence. endorsed by the KKK became count more than others. In 2016 Hillary Clinton had President. I know the U.S. has a very submissions@spokesman-recorder.com. 2,864,974 votes more than I say it’s time to move past hard time getting rid of racist Donald Trump, the largest the question; the equality of antiques, artifacts, policies and popular vote margin of any “one person, one vote” would monuments. It is a moral di-

bother to pray until we find ourselves in crisis. In addition to Black History, Carter G. Woodson left us a most valuable book, “The Miseducation of the Negro.” It’s time to honor [the] gift of Black History with our own personal contributions to the times in which we live and those we share this life experience with. Only when we engage in this level of thought and activity while making Black History a daily experience can we truly honor what we have been given beyond the month of February each year. Where do you stand and what are you doing with what you have been given? Let’s move beyond complaints and expectations by others to what each of us can do right where we stand. Let’s get back to defending ourselves and not allowing others to do it for us. Dr. Warren is president of Warren Communications, Inc., an African American-owned media group with community newspapers on the East and West Coast. He is the publisher of the 62-year-old San Diego Voice & Viewpoint.

The most unprotected person in America is still the Black woman trated disadvantage is pronounced. This finding is a crucial initial step towards developing targeted solutions to reduce inequitable homicide rates among Black women.” The researchers stressed the urgent need for action to address these disparities, suggesting that enacting federal legislation to reduce gun access is a crucial step. Additionally, they have urged policymakers to tackle long-standing structural factors contributing to elevated gun violence by implementing sustainable wealth-building opportunities, developing mixedincome and affordable housing, and increasing green spaces in communities where Black women predominantly reside. Lead author Bernadine Waller, a postdoctoral psychiatry research fellow at Columbia University’s Irving Medical Center, expressed her disappointment at the lack of comprehensive research on this issue. Waller emphasized the devastating impact of high homicide rates on families, especially considering that many Black families have women as heads of households. Approximately 45 percent of Black women have experienced stalking and physical and sexual violence in their lifetimes, with an estimated 51 percent of Black female adult homicides related to intimate partner violence, according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. The “Lancet” report underscores the urgency of addressing these deeply entrenched issues to ensure the safety and well-being of Black women in America. “Our findings underscore pervasive racial inequities in homicide rates among Black and White women aged 25–44 years across 30 US states between 1999 and 2020,” the authors concluded. Stacy M. Brown is the NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent. lemma, but I think this time it is winnable. Wim Laven, Ph.D., syndicated by PeaceVoice, teaches courses in political science and conflict resolution.

8 February 22 - 28, 2024

Bulletin

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Events in the Twin Cities: Feb. 23 - 29 Half Pint Co. Celebrates Black History Month C​lose out Black History Month with these free or low- Bringing Books to Life for Black History Month Feb. 24 | 1:30 p.m. @ Hennepin County Library Brooklyn Park, Feb. 25 | 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. @ Arbeiter Brewing Company, 3038 cost community events in the Twin Cities and beyond.

8500 W. Broadway Ave., Brooklyn Park Sponsored by The Minnesota Black Authors Expo, this event Mia Black History Month Celebration Runs until June 23 | @ Minneapolis Institute of Art, 2400 3rd celebrates local Black authors, who will read from their books and engage with participants. For more info, visit bit.ly/BringAve. S., Mpls The exhibition “American Gothic: Gordon Parks and Ella Wat- ingBookstoLifeBHM son” showcases over 60 photos by the iconic Gordon Parks of government worker Ella Watson across the varied landscape of her daily life. Organized by Mia and the Gordon Parks Foundation. Free. For more info, visit new.artsmia.org

Minnehaha Ave., Mpls. This free kid-friendly gathering will feature inspiring stories and achievements of influential Black figures. Enjoy thoughtprovoking stories and engaging activities that celebrate the contributions of Black individuals throughout history. For more visit, bit.ly/BMHHalfPint

5th Annual BlackOUT Black History Month Celebration Feb. 25 | 12-6 p.m. @ 655 Fairview Ave. N., Mpls. Close out Black History Month’s last weekend by learning about and supporting new Black businesses in the community. Also enjoy food and performances, engage with community leaders, and more. For more info, visit bit.ly/BlackOUTBHM Black History Month Showcase Feb. 23 | 5:30 p.m. @ Brooklyn Park Activity Center, 5600 85th Ave. N., Brooklyn Park Enjoy food, performances, community leaders, vendors and more. $5. For more info and tickets, visit bit.ly/BP-BHM24

Black History Month Teach-in on Community Control of the Police Feb. 24 | 2 p.m. @ Quatrefoil Library, 1220 E. Lake St., Mpls. Come celebrate Black History Month with Twin Cities Coalition for Justice 4 Jamar and learn about the history behind Community Control of the Police within the Black Liberation movement. For more info, visit bit.ly/BHMCommunityControl

Bla​ck History Month Film Festival Feb. 27 | 5 p.m. @ Maple Grove Community Center, 12951 Weaver Lake Rd., Maple Grove Come for the screening of the influential movie “Soul” and stay for the discussion of the movie afterward. Free. For more info, visit bit.ly/BHMFilmFestival

Youth Zine and Collage Workshop with Baki Porter Feb. 24 | 11 a.m. @ MAAHMG, 1256 Penn Ave. N., Fourth Floor, Mpls. Baki Porter will teach a youth zine and collage workshop at the Minnesota African American History Museum and Gallery (MAAHMG). A zine (short for magazine) is a small, DIY-created book about any topic you can think of. In this workshop, you will create your own zine while learning about the history of African Americans in Minnesota. Free. For more info, visit bit.ly/ YouthZineMAAHMG

Rock your Crown Feb. 28 | 12 p.m. @ Public Service Building, Conference Room 100, 505 4th Ave. S., Mpls. In light of the State of Minnesota signing the Crown Act into law, this event sponsored by the City of Minneapolis will celebrate the history of Black hair and the art of styling it. Free. For more info, visit bit.ly/RockYourCrown Spark’d Studios: Black Music History Feb. 29 | 4 p.m. @ Powderhorn Recreation Center, 3400 15th Ave. S., Mpls. Celebrate Black History Month by listening to some of the most influential Black musicians of all time at Spark’d Studios at Powderhorn Park. Enjoy conversations that will explore the cultural impact of artists ranging from current chart-toppers to classical composers. For more info, visit bit.ly/SparkdStudiosBHM

Greater Friendship Missionary Baptist Church

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2600 E. 38th Street. Mpls., MN 55408 612-827-7928 fax: 612-827-3587 website: www.greatfriend.org email: info@greatfriend.org Sunday Church School: 8:30 am Sunday Worship: 9:30 am

“Winning the World with Love” Grace Temple Deliverance Center

Dr. Willa Lee Grant Battle, Pastor 1908 Fourth Ave. So. Mpls., MN 24 Hour Dial-A-Prayer: 612-870-4695 www.gtdci.org Sunday School 9:30 am Sunday Worship 11:30 am Prayer Daily 7 pm Evangelistic Service: Wednesday & Friday 8 pm

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February 22 - 28, 2024

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SOE

Continued from page 10

NCAA tournament who played two years at the same school and has the highest cumulative grade point average. Strong had a 3.983 GPA for the Bulldogs, who reached the NCAA Division II Elite Eight last season. He graduated with a major in entrepreneurship and is now in his first year of law school in D.C. This, according to Strong’s father Paul, was totally expected by him and his wife Lori. The two parents knew their son was destined for great things, which is why he is named Joshua. “We’ve always told our kids to be great,” said Paul. “Don’t let anybody put limits on you, and we didn’t put limits on him. We prayed for all of our kids before they were born about their names.” Howard Coach Kenneth Blakeney told us about Strong, “He’s been such a blessing to be honest with you. To come on as a walkon was first and foremost big. I think it’s a boost for our program. “You understand his story, understand what kind of character he is, understand what kind of man he is. We’re truly blessed to have him be a part of our program,” said the coach. Paul Strong said Joshua chose Howard primarily for two reasons: He could attend there on scholarship and continue playing basketball, but at the Division I HBCU level. UMD is a Division II school. “My son is a strong believer,” added his father. Joshua called him and said he did make the right choice to attend Howard after attending a class where the professor started off with prayer. “I’m in the right place,” Paul recalled his son saying. Paul offered a piece of advice to other parents: “Never question your kid’s dream, even if you can’t see it… Encourage them to believe that they can do exceedingly abundantly above all that they could ever dream,” he suggested. This is why he isn’t surprised that Joshua is in law school after graduating from college in two years. “I never doubted it, but he’s superseded my expecta-

UMD

DATABASE ADMINISTRATOR. FT, M-F. METRO SOCIAL SERVICES, INC, MN

Maintain computer networks; Evaluate security of network relative to vulnerabilities; Resolve computer network and software issues; Provide support, installation, integration, and compatibility testing on software applications. Stay current on industry trends including possessing skill and knowledge of use of Procentive Medical Record and Mental Health Billing software (procentive) and incorporate best practices into software development processes. Provide technical support and training to diverse staff and clients with English as a second language to promote an inclusive workplace. Connect with and train clients who are also experiencing mental illness how to use the MSSI electronic medical record system. MS, or BS in Computer Science and 3 years of experience required. Send resume and cover letter to info@ metrosocialservices.org

ACCOUNTANT/AUDITOR. FT, M-F. METRO SOCIAL SERVICES, INC, MN

Proficient in QuickBooks accounting software to prepare and submit invoices, monitoring company’s finances and creating financial/accounting reports, managing the cash flow, and maintaining the balance sheet. Reconcile bank statements and bookkeeping ledgers, and file and remit taxes. Review accounts for discrepancies and reconcile differences. Collect and analyze company revenue using Procentive Medical Record Billing software. Analyze company operations, trends, costs, revenues, financial commitments, and obligations to project future revenues and expenses. Prepare, analyze, or verify annual reports, financial statements, and other records, using accepted accounting and statistical procedures to assess financial condition and facilitate financial planning. Handle staff and client complaints and resolve financial-related grievances. MS, or BS in Accounting and 2 years of experience required. Send resume and cover letter to info@metrosocialservices.org

Community Health Program Coordinator: METRO SOCIAL SERVICES, INC, MN

The ideal candidate for this position will possess a wealth of experience working with the African and African American communities, particularly in mental health and other health-related domains. As a Health Advocate, this individual will serve as a liaison between community members and healthcare providers, advocating for individuals’ health needs and facilitating effective communication. Responsibilities will encompass data collection to compile vital statistics, conducting community assessments to identify prevalent health issues, and providing essential support and training where needed. Proficiency in Procentive electronic medical record systems is essential for documenting and tracking services as statutorily required. Additionally, the role will involve processing claims for clients on Medical Assistance using MN_ITS software system. The position requires proficiency in QuickBooks for invoicing purposes. Ability to connect with clients and staff from diverse backgrounds, whose primary language is not English and who may be experiencing mental health challenges. The position will play a pivotal role in advising clients on self-care issues such as diabetes management, blood pressure, glaucoma, and health assessments, etc. Qualification requires BS or MA and 2 years of experience required. Send resume and cover letter to info@metrosocialservices.org

DATA ANALYTICS APPLICATION DEVELOPER IT Company (Minnetonka, MN) seeks Data Analytics Application Developer to analyze, design, implement webbased client/server applications by utilizing knowledge of Java, Python, Spark, Scala, Apache Kafka, Kubernetes, Spring, Grafana, HBase, Hive, Sqoop, Angular JS/React JS, MySQL and MongoDB, etc. Create various types of tests, troubleshooting, maintain, fine tuning applications. Gather requirements, prepare technical and functional specifications. Send resumes to: HRD, Maritz Consulting (d/b/a Ledelsea), 12800 Whitewater Drive, Suite 40, Minnetonka, MN 55343 or email to: ledelsea@ledelsea.com

tions, my wildest dreams. “Now he knows that he has a purpose, not just for himself but for other young people who may be designed to do

where there’s so many good players [to recruit].” Continued from page 10 Said Brown, “I came here and it’s just like a kind of famBrown is among six play- ily atmosphere and environers on this year’s roster who ment that we have day in and hail from the Twin Cities area, day out, practices and games.” and one of two Black players “We’ve really tried to talk (with redshirt freshman Karon about and really fulfill just Abdullah, also from Minneap- having a positive relationship,” olis (Patrick Henry High). reaffirmed Wieck. “I want “I think we’ve definitely them to feel like it’s a family.” made a lot of progress with Diversity, equity and inclusome of these guys that have sion is still a work in progress chosen to come here,” said at UMD. According to Data Coach Wieck, now in his fifth USA, the school’s Black stuseason. UMD has won over dent population is 0.87 per69 percent of its games and cent, Asian 2.11 percent, La67 percent of its league con- tino 3.26 percent and White tests on his watch. 75.2 percent. Duluth’s Black “I do think we’re lucky population is 2.5 percent. around here because there’s “I would say there’s always so many high-quality DII pro- room for improvement,” adgrams in our state,” continued mitted Wieck, who said UMD Wieck. “There’s a great respect Athletic Director Forrest Karr, for DII basketball, even Divi- since his hiring in August sion III basketball in the state 2022, has made DE&I a top of Minnesota. We’re lucky to priority. “JB is the president,” be so close to the Twin Cities he said of Brown’s role on the

something similar.” Charles Hallman welcomes reader comments at challman@ spokesman-recorder.com.

school’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council, which is made up of student-athletes and regular students. “I would say the comfortability has increased” on campus, added Brown. As for men’s hoops, the Bulldogs are thriving: “We’ve got a pretty good thing here to attract students” like Brown, Abdullah, and others from the Cities like them, surmised Wieck. “It’s within a 2-3 hours to 2-4 hours radius. We’ve got some good academic services, some good resources here. We can always be better and always looking to improve. “We got a month or two left [in the season] to write another chapter of this book. I think this is really, really a special group, and I’m grateful to be a part of it,” said Brown. Charles Hallman welcomes reader comments at challman@spokesman-recorder.com.

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Continued from page 10 We are also inviting our clients to advertise on our PHONE: 612-827-4021 web site for 2 weeks for a flat net fee of $150 per with purchase of print ad.it,” “I wasposition playing basketball because I loved Moore told me last Friday, a day after Clark’s FOR BILLING billing digitally. MSR historic The night. Shehandles expressed no regrets over INQUIRIES This means will get“Records e-tears and the attention Clark you is getting: are e-mailed in& TEARSHEETS voices unless you specifically request a hard copy. made to be broken, but I should say that [her] PL E A S E CON TAC T record is set,” the 66-year-old pointed out. ACCOU N T I NG D E P T Furthermore, she also understands how @ BILLING@SPOKESMAN-RECORDER. things work in this world of ours: “History is COM not actually repeating itself,” noted Moore. “Lynette and me may get overlooked, just like a lot of our Black people.” EM PLOY MEN T DI SPLAY We strongly suggest an asterisk be placed SI ZE: 2 COL X 2.5 I NCH on Clark’s record, since it doesn’t fully recog- Lauryn Taylor celebrates her record 44 R AT E $44.60 PER COL . I NCH nize thatTOTAL: Moore is the all-time queen in scoring. rebounds. $223.00 And that’s the rest of the story. Photos courtesy of Francis Marion Athletics + 2 W EEK S ON LI NE + $150 TOTAL: $373

New rebounding record set Francis Marion senior center Lauryn TayPlease proof, respond with email confirmation lor, on thetosame night that Catilin Clark made ad@spokesman-recorder.com. For more exposure: headlines with her scoring, set a new NCAA We are also inviting our clients to advertise on ourrecord with 44 rebounds in a rebounding web site for 2 weeks for a flat net fee of22-point $150 perwin. The 5-11 player had 14 offensive position with purchase of print ad. rebounds and 30 defensive caroms. “It’s something that I like to do,” Taylor told The MSR handles billing digitally. the MSR the day after she set the record. She’s This means you will get e-tears and e-mailed incurrently averaging nearly 14 rebounds a game voices unless you specifically request a hard copy. this season. “I think it’s actually kind of easy. I really just have a knack for it.” Read more on Pearl Moore and Lauryn Taylor in separate stories at spokesman-recorder.com. Charles Hallman welcomes reader comments Lauryn Taylor seizing one of her record 44 at challman@spokesman-recorder.com. rebounds

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10 February 22 - 28, 2024

Sports

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Hot hoops action at cold MN Duluth Champlin Park, Duluth grad exceeds all expectations oward University junior guard Joshua Strong is the only Division I basketball player this season who also is in his first year of law school. He graduated from the University of Minnesota Duluth last spring summa cum laude after two years and transferred to the famed HBCU law school this summer.

“Never question your kid’s dream, even if you can’t see it.”

Joshua Strong Courtesy of Howard University

Strong, a Champlin Park High School grad, was a top recruit for MBB Coach Justin Wieck at UMD. He played in 36 games and started 14 as the Bulldogs’ sixth man last season. “To come in with so many credits [and] graduate in two

years, there’s a whole other level of where he is,” marveled Wieck of Strong, who won the NCAA Elite 90 award last spring. It is given to the student-athlete [sophomore or better] participating in the ■ See SOE on page 9

Paul Highland Park Scots last week at Harding High School. Lugman Ibrahim led the Knights with 26 points. A’Jhon Douglas had 24, Chea finished with 19, and Salman Hussein chipped in 11. Quintice Combs had a gamehigh 28 points for the Scots. Yared Yohannes added 23 and Isaiah Davis finished with 12. It was quite a game. Check athaniel Chea’s driv- out the pics! ing layup with seconds Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonremaining lifted the St. Paul Harding Knights to ald welcomes reader comments an 82-81 victory over the St. at mcdeezy05@gmail.com.

By Charles Hallman Sports Columnist ivision I basketball now and probably forevermore will get plenty of coverage. But you also can find good hoops at the so-called lowwer levels, such as Division II. Minnesota Duluth is located around three hours away from the Cities, where the state’s two DI programs, Minnesota and St. Thomas, reside. The UMD Bulldogs, members of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC), have for the last two seasons, after Justin Wieck’s arrival in 2018, been a force in the conference. This season is no different.

“I want them to feel like it’s a family.”

Joshua Brown

Photos by Charles Hallman

Coach Justin Wieck

round bye through the begin- they’re Division II. All five of the UMD core ning of the NSIC tournament The Bulldogs (22-5, 17-4 after consecutive weekend starters—Joshua Brown, Charlie NSIC, 3rd place) are on a 10- sweeps. They also are in the Katona, Austin Andrews, Jack game winning streak, current- top 20 in the NABC polls, but Middleton and Drew Blair— ly the state’s hottest college seemingly remain a well-kept have individually achieved basketball team. They have secret among the so-called 1,000+ career points, in combisecured themselves a first- hoops aficionados because nation nearly 7,600 points and

growing throughout the season. “It’s really unique for us [as a starting unit],” said Brown, a 6-4 guard from Minneapolis (Park Center). “I just really appreciate all my teammates and really appreciate all my coaches.” ■ See UMD on page 9

Harding defeats Highland in St. Paul City Conference matchup

Jeremiah Bryant (Harding) guards Isaiah Davis (Highland Park).

Quintice Combs (Highland Park) drives during a game against Harding. Yared Yohannes (Highland Park) tries to get past Nathaniel Chea (Harding).

A’John Douglas (Harding) goes for two against Highland Park.

All photos by Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald

Nathaniel Chea (Harding) is guarded by Quintice Combs (Highland Park).

Who’s the real all-time top scorer in women’s college basketball?

It’s not Catlin Clark. Here’s the rest of the story. he late broadcaster and commentator Paul Harvey would always say, “... and now the rest of the story.” Iowa WBB player Catlin Clark last week set a new NCAA scoring record (3,528 and counting). But the rest of the story is that Pearl Moore still is the all-time women’s basketball scorer. Moore, in the 1970s a 5-7 guard at Francis Marion College, a small school in Florence, S.C., averaged at least 30 points a game—one game she hit for 60—and she finished her college career with 4,061 points. She is third on a list of college basketball men’s and women’s scorers, the only woman with at least

on that list—her 3,649 career points at Kansas has her at No. 12 on the list of big-time scorers in college hoops history. It is expected that Clark soon will surpass her point totals as well. However, while the spotlight has been on Clark as she sought the NCAA record, the two Black women’s historic accomplishments have been largely ignored save for a few of us, such as Lindsay Gibbs of Power Plays! who wrote about Moore and Woodard last year. Moore played two seasons in Pearl Moore in her playing days Hall of Fame ceremony a defunct U.S. pro league and a 4,000 career points, ahead of their baskets at the time without season overseas before retiring such notables as Pete Maravich, a three-point line and with a sim- and returning to her hometown who scored 3,667 points, good ilar size ball. Women today play of Florence, S.C. Woodard, who with a smaller ball than the men. after college became the first for ninth on the list. Lynette Woodard also is woman to play for the Harlem Both he and Moore made

fact-checking to properly tell the whole story. Moore’s points came when the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women (AIAW) ran women’s basketball. But when the NCAA took over in 1982, the records of Moore and others of her generation never got officially recognized. But decades later, Moore’s Globetrotters, like Moore has accomplishments got her inscored more points in college ducted into the Women’s Basthan Clark. ketball Hall of Fame in 201, part Clark isn’t to blame here, but of the Hall’s “WBL Trailblazers of rather the sports media who the Game” display in 2018, and love to Whitewash history to the Naismith Basketball Hall of suit their particular purpose, Fame in 2021. And her all-time especially when it comes to scoring record still stands, deBlack females’ accomplish- spite all the hoopla over Clark ments. These PWM don’t do last week. their rightful due diligence and ■ See VIEW on page 9

“Lynette and me may get overlooked, just like a lot of our Black people.”