March 9, 2023 - MN Spokesman-Recorder

Minneapolis safety commissioner asks for community’s trust

By Charles Hallman

Contributing Writer

In 2021, Minneapolis

voters approved a new form of city government, which explicitly defined the mayor as the city’s chief executive officer. Mayor Jacob Frey’s new government structure now has four people reporting directly to him on city administration. One of them is the commissioner of the Office of Community Safety.

The newly created Office of Community Safety is responsible for five departments—the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD), the Minneapolis Fire Department (MFD), Emergency Management, 911 emergency communications, and the newly created

Neighborhood Safety. All five department heads report directly to Dr. Cedric Alexander, the city’s first public safety commissioner, who was hired and sworn into office last August.

Alexander recently talked about being on the job for less than a year and the challenges of his new role. Since his title is public safety commissioner, most people have seemed focused on the city’s policing

community safety departments.

Since his swearing-in last summer, Alexander has endured criticism over his qualifications, his salary, and unfortunately his part in a brief but heated exchange on Twitter with some of his critics. He later apologized for it.

Sitting in his City Hall office,

woes and what he is going to do about them.

But he also wants everyone to know that his office is responsible for five departments, not just the MPD.

One of Alexander’s biggest challenges is ongoing staffing shortages in many of the city’s

The Minneapolis Fire Department hopes to hire an additional 15 firefighters as part of the federal SAFER grant the city received last year. In addition, the city’s National Incident Management System (NIMS) will include dozens of preparedness trainings for Emergency Management leadership and staff. Also, several call takers and dispatchers are expected to be hired in the 911 communications center in the coming months.

The new Neighborhood Safety department is actively participating in the Biden administration’s Community Violence Intervention Collaborative (CVIC). The MPD,

■ See TRUST on page 5

Rondo land bridge gets federal boost $2 million grant brings community closer to reunification

By H. Jiahong Pan

Contributing Writer

ReConnect Rondo has become the first and only Minnesota recipient, so far, of a federal grant to address the Interstate 94 freeway that divided the Black neighborhood of Rondo in St. Paul decades ago.

The funding is made possible by the Department of Transportation’s Reconnecting Communities pilot program, a five-year grant initiative created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed by Congress in 2021. Rondo is one of about 950 disadvantaged communities throughout the country that were economically crippled due to the construction of the federal highway system.

“It is incredibly validating to see the federal government take responsibility for the lasting harm on communities all these years later with hard dollars that can materially help

Voting rights restored to formerly incarcerated

us today in our effort to springboard into a more healthy and planful future,” said ReConnect Rondo Executive Director Keith Baker in a statement.

The organization plans to use the $2 million grant, in addition to $500,000 in matching city and state funds, to conduct a traffic study of their proposed land bridge. The funds will also support a federally required environmental review and help ReConnect Rondo get input from more community members.

The idea for a land bridge first came up for discussion in 2009. However, actual planning for the project did not begin until 2014, when local community organizations came together to ensure the Metropolitan Council built stops on the Green Line to serve them.

In 2017 Reconnect Rondo was formed on the premise that its proposal to build a land bridge over Interstate 94 could help rebuild a

By

By MSR News Service

On March 3, the Cultural Wellness Center (CWC) and the Pohlad Family Foundation announced the seven people invited to join the Black Legacy and Leadership Enrichment Initiative. A first-of-its-kind community-designed effort, the initiative’s goal is to give Black activists resources and support to recharge themselves, so they can better serve the community.

The seven activists selected will each receive an unrestricted grant of $55,000 for their own self-care and revitalization. The seven inaugural awardees, called “initiates,” include Melvin Giles, DejaJoelle, Farji Shaheer, Anura Si-Asar, Corenia Smith, Princess Titus, and Antonio Williams.

“Investing in leadership and legacy from our cultural perspective is about building up people to be a source of strength for the community,” said Elder Atum Azzahir, the founder and executive director of the Cultural Wellness Center. “These seven leaders represent the community’s process of rejuvenation and sense of resiliency, themes this particular model incorporated from

the start as we welcomed community leaders to apply for this novel initiative.”

The ‘initiates’ Melvin Giles, a veteran peace and diversity educator and activist, co-leads Urban Farm and Garden Alliance, a St. Paul network of

Minnesotans

MSR News Service

“Minnesotans who have completed time for their offenses and are living, working, and raising families in their communities deserve the right to vote,” said Governor Walz. “I am grateful to the community members, organizers and legislators who are committed to strengthening the freedom to vote and ensuring every Minnesotan has a voice in our democracy.”

“This has to be a police department, quite frankly, that belongs to the people.”

Community Safety Commissioner Dr. Cedric Alexander

Photo by Charles Hallman

bridge rendering

Courtesy of Design by Melo and Visuals by James

Walz signing the Minnesota Restore the Vote law

Photo courtesy of Twitter

“There’s great opportunity for amenities to come to this community without disrupting or taking away homes again.”

Antonio Williams

Photo courtesy of Facebook

Metro Transit service changes impact bus riders

By H. Jiahong Pan Contributing Writer

As Metro Transit struggles to increase its driver ranks, which were ravaged by the pandemic and safety concerns, riders will see several service changes that the transit system plans to roll out in the coming months. Although the immediate changes won’t be as drastic, down the line passengers may see more significant changes in service as local communities rebuild streets and more drivers start working.

Metro Transit expands micro service area

Metro Transit’s door-to-door ride-hail service, micro, which operates in a three-squaremile area of Near North Minneapolis, expanded its service on February 26, in an attempt to attract more riders in response to high satisfaction ratings.

Micro, which is branded ‘micro’ by the transit agency, expanded northward to 34th Avenue N. and eastward towards the Mississippi River north of

With 6,844 rides as of the end of January, and 1,000 app users, the average wait time has been under seven minutes. On average, passengers use it to travel roughly a mile and a half.

The busiest stop? Cub Foods on West Broadway, which

ing Transit Link, a similar service that serves the rural parts of the Twin Cities.

But the expansion of micro service will come with a trad eoff. Because of low ridership in the early morning and late evening hours, micro service hours were cut back on Febru ary 26. The service now ends earlier, at 10:30 p.m. Weekend service also begins later, at 7 a.m. And with the expanded service area, riders may also have longer wait times, as the agency doesn’t plan to add any more drivers or buses to the service.

ROUTE 17 STOPS PROPOSED FOR ELIMINATION FROM NORTH TO SOUTH:

makes up one of the top 10 passenger destinations for the service.

The service is also pretty expensive to run because it makes door-to-door stops and serves

Northside resident Johnny Hedgepeth welcomes the expansion, but thinks it needs to go farther because it doesn’t necessarily offer service where it’s needed. “[They should] expand it to 42nd or 45th…and down by the [US Bank] stadium. Then that would be very helpful,” said Hedgepeth as he rode the D Line to his Southside church.

Route and schedule changes

Metro Transit isn’t yet bringing back service routes it cut

Route 5 and the C and D lines. Route 7 buses will no longer serve the VA Medical Center, located just north of the airport, during rush hour due to low ridership.

And, riders leaving the Trailhead in Theodore Wirth Park, located to the west of North Minneapolis by Route 7, may experience delays as the Minneapolis Park Board asks the agency’s drivers to take their breaks as they leave the park to relieve parking lot congestion.

“Shifting the location where buses lay over will help provide a clearer, safer path [for] bikers, walkers, skiers and golfers of all ages,” said Park Board spokesperson Robin Smothers.

For much of this year, Route 7 buses will also be rerouted off of Plymouth Avenue between Washington and Lyndale Avenues because of bridge construction, which also includes building a curb-separated bike lane.

The Route 5, C and D lines will receive “schedule adjustments” across all days of the week. The adjustments do not seem to account for the extra three-to-five-minute detour buses will have to take through Robbinsdale, as Hennepin County reconstructs Osseo Road for bike lanes, as well as the additional C and D line sta

tion at 47th Avenue.

However, Metro Tran-

sit plans to add buses to the routes to maintain its current frequency. Once construction wraps up, Route 5 will no longer serve Brooklyn Center.

In August, Metro Transit plans to realign and eliminate some stops served primarily by Route 17 in St. Louis Park and Northeast Minneapolis, to ensure buses go faster and better connect to other transit options. The route served just over 3,000 weekday riders in late 2021.

Though riders interviewed by the MSR were mostly positive about the changes, Sean Solomon wondered why Metro Transit planned to remove

the stop at 15th and Nicollet, which serves Loring Park, the 19 Bar, local restaurants, a school and a convenience store.

“It’s a legit hot spot, if anything,” said Solomon as he rode the Route 17 back home.

The agency conducted surveys on proposed changes. For more information about the project, visit Route 17 - Metro Transit. The agency also plans further changes to the transit system over the next five years, and invites riders to take an online survey to help inform those changes.

H. Jiahong Pan welcomes reader comments at hpan@spokesman-recorder.com.

Shifting the location where buses lay over will help provide a clearer, safer path [for] bikers, walkers, skiers and golfers of all ages.

By Charles E. Crutchfield III, MD Senior Medical Advisor

As many of my patients and readers know, I have been battling Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma for the past 2½ years. After many chemotherapy and radiation sessions, my treatments were successful, but not completely successful. My cancer has returned, and my fight continues. I am currently at the Mayo Clinic receiving CAR-T therapy.

I sincerely thank the readers for all their kind wishes and prayers.

What is cancer?

Cancer cells differ from other cells in two ways: They don’t respond to normal body signals to stop growing or die naturally. Usually, cells in the body grow, divide, and die in an orderly fashion. If a cell’s growth isn’t kept in check, that cell can become cancerous and multiply, forming a tumor.

Many cancers originate from a genetic change in our DNA. Some common risk factors for cancer include smoking, exposure to ultraviolet rays, and certain chemicals, like pesticides. In fact, herbicides have a solid link to Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Certain lifestyle choices can also increase cancer risk, such as being overweight, not eating healthily, and being inactive.

There are several types of cancer, but

CAR-T therapy: a new weapon in the war against cancer

It has successfully treated a wide range of cancers

the most common types include breast, colon, lung, lymphoma, and prostate cancer. Symptoms of cancer vary depending on the type and location of the cancer and can include abnormal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, pain, and changes in skin color or texture.

Cancer is treated with surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapy. Each type of treatment has different goals, depending on the type of cancer and how far it has spread. Treatment may also include other supportive therapies, such as pain medications, nutritional counseling, and psychological support.

Cancer is a serious and life-threatening condition, and understanding

found in the lymph nodes, spleen, tonsils, and other areas.

supportive care, depending on the type and stage of Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

of blood and bone marrow cancers, including leukemia and lymphoma. It has had some excellent success rates and is currently being investigated to treat a wide variety of other cancers. CAR-T therapy holds bright promise in the war against cancer.

cancer risks, types and treatments are essential for prevention and early detection. Awareness of family history and risk factors, having regular screenings and check-ups, and leading a healthy lifestyle is vital for reducing the risk of developing cancer.

What is Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma?

Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a type of cancer that starts in the lymphatic system, part of the body’s immune system. Lymphoid tissue is

Cancer can start almost anywhere in the body—from the lungs to the skin—and spread to other organs. Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell in the lymphoid tissue that protect the body from infection. Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma affects these lymphocytes, causing them to grow and divide in an uncontrolled way, which accumulates in the lymphoid tissue.

While the exact cause is unknown, certain risk factors can increase a person’s likelihood of developing NonHodgkin’s lymphoma, such as age, autoimmune conditions, herbicide exposure, and a family history of the disease.

Symptoms vary widely but may include swollen lymph nodes, fever, fatigue, weight loss, night sweats, and enlarged organs. Treatment can consist of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and

What is CAR-T (Chimeric Antigen

Receptor T-Cell) therapy?

CAR-T therapy is an advanced form of immunotherapy used to treat cancer. The therapy harnesses a patient’s own immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.

To do this, T-cells, part of the immune system, are removed from the patient and genetically modified to produce receptors on their surfaces. These receptors bind specifically to specific proteins found on or inside the patient’s cancer cells, allowing the re-engineered T-cells to identify them as foreign and attack them.

After modification, the T-cells are introduced back into the body, where they can seek and destroy the cancer cells. Car—T therapy has been used successfully to treat a variety

Charles E. Crutchfield III, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and clinical professor of dermatology at the University of Minnesota Medical School and a Benedict Distinguished Visiting Professor of Biology at Carleton College. He also has a private practice, Crutchfield Dermatology, in Eagan, MN. He received his MD and master’s degree in molecular biology and genomics from the Mayo Clinic. He has been selected as one of the top 10 dermatologists in the United States by Black Enterprise magazine. In addition, Minnesota Medicine recognized Dr. Crutchfield as one of the 100 Most Influential Healthcare Leaders in Minnesota. Dr. Crutchfield specializes in skin-of-color and has been selected by physicians and nurses as one of the leading dermatologists in Minnesota for the past 20 years. He is the consulting team dermatologist for the Minnesota Twins, Vikings, Timberwolves, Wild and Lynx. Dr. Crutchfield is an active member of the American and National Medical Associations and past president of the Minnesota Association of Black Physicians. He is a founding member of “Minnesota’s Black Community Project” which recently published an award-winning book. Dr. Crutchfield has been recognized by NBC News/ The Grio as one of the most influential African Americans in America. Dr. Crutchfield can be reached at CrutchfieldDermatology.com or by calling 651-209-3600.

Minnesota Business Coalition for Racial Equity launches $1 million deposit campaign with First Independent Bank

By Evette Porter Managing Editor

On February 23, the Minnesota Business Coalition for Racial Equity (MBCRE) launched its $1 million deposit initiative, which is designed to not only encourage its business partners to invest in First Independence Bank—Minnesota’s first Minority Deposit Institution (MDI)—but also to get member companies to encourage their employees to open accounts and make deposits with the bank.

It’s as simple as establishing a relationship whereby if you open a checking account, you have access to resources that unbanked consumers don’t.

Experts say that supporting MDIs can be important in developing a more equitable and prosperous Minnesota and Black community in the Twin Cities.

“One of the primary ways to grow a bank, to make a bank successful, is for the bank to have deposit relationships,” said First Independence Bank Senior Vice President and Twin Cities Regional Market President Damon Jenkins. “The end result is to get people connected with First Independence.”

“After making my deposit, it reaffirmed to me the impor-

tance of Minority Deposit Institutions in our community,” said Tiffani Daniels, managing director for the MBCRE, in a statement announcing the $1 million challenge. “Deposits can make a physical impact on our communities immediately, increasing the lending capacity of the bank. That lending potential can help close the homeownership gap and empower local businesses.”

“We want to be part of the initiative to impact communities of color, in particular Black communities,” Jenkins added.

“Because we know we have the most significant disparities when compared to White households. We want to be a place where communities of color can go and cash their check, instead of other places.”

Jenkins acknowledges some of the obstacles facing First Independence. “You have the trust issue that Black communities have, overall,” he admits. “But you have to meet people where they are and establish a relationship and help them identify the resources that are available to them.

“You have to embrace the changes in banking, and technology is changing our lives. It’s not just your traditional bank that’s your competitor, it’s cash apps and Chime that we’re competing with,” he said.

“Beyond that, we’re trying to grow banking relationships, connecting people with products and services,” Jenkins said of the bank’s objectives. “We’re also a financial institution that’s trying to establish a relationship as a connector.”

“If there’s a [MBCRE] com-

pany that wants to establish a relationship with the community—whether it’s wealthbuilding, small businesses, increasing homeownership—this can really have an impact in terms of addressing how communities of color, particularly Black communities, are marginalized. There’s an opportunity for us to connect. Also, we can help companies achieve their equity goals as well.”

Jenkins describes First In-

dependence Bank, a Detroitbased Black bank that opened its first branch in Minneapolis in 2022, as developing an organic relationship with the community. “It’s as simple as establishing a relationship whereby if you open a checking account, you have access to resources that unbanked consumers don’t.”

Asked what the ultimate goal is in generating deposits, Jenkins stated, “Our goal is to

reach at least one million in deposits. That’s our score. That’s when we dance in the end zone,” he quipped. “Of course, our aspiration is to outperform that goal. We’re looking to do better, but the target is one million dollars,” he said.

“I’m hopeful that we get people to connect with the bank beyond the deposit. Once they’re connected, they can learn what we’re trying to accomplish and they can help us

accomplish it,” he continued.

“We are at a pivotal historical point. There’s significant change occurring in the region, and we have an opportunity to build on the momentum. The bank’s success strengthens the financial wellness of communities, the region, and Minnesota, particularly marginalized, underbanked, or unbanked households and individuals,” said Jenkins.

The MBCRE is encouraging businesses and individuals to get involved in the deposit challenge. Businesses can make deposits at one of the two Twin Cities FIB locations—2217 E. Lake Street and at 3430 University Avenue SE in Minneapolis. Individuals can open personal accounts in-person or online at the bank’s website. All new accounts with a deposit made by June 19 (Juneteenth) at First Independence Bank Twin Cities will count toward this challenge.

“We decided to end the challenge on Juneteenth, because it’s symbolic of our history—not just in Texas, but nationally,” said MBCRE’s Daniels. “The holiday recognizes our emancipation, our freedom. I think the challenge is also about our freedom—our community’s ability to build wealth and our economic and financial freedom.”

For more information about the $1 million deposit challenge, visit MBCRE’s website, mbcredepositchallenge.com.

Evette Porter welcomes reader comments at eporter@spokesman-recorder.com

Sister Spokesman’s financial planning guide to living your best life in retirement

Sister Spokesman held its “Roadmap to Retirement” event on Sat., March 4, from 12-3 pm, at LifeSource in Minneapolis. Financial advisor, Ronnie Salone, helped the room full of attendees navigate their roadmap to financial security in retirement, with resources, worksheets, and advice.

After the retirement-planning workshop, attendees shopped for merchandise sold by local vendors, networked, played games, won

prizes and enjoyed food and entertainment.

Sister Spokesman’s next event, “Resource Fair for Caregivers,” takes place on Sat., April 1 from 12-3 pm at LifeSource, located at 2225 West River Rd. N in Minneapolis.

Visit @SisterSpokesman on Facebook for more details.

(l-r) MBCRE’s Tiffani Daniels and First Independence Bank’s Damon Jenkins

Photo courtesy of MBCRE

All photos by Steve Floyd

Sister Spokesman host and founder Tracey Williams-Dillard speaks to attendees

Attendees entered raffles and won prizes

Guest speaker Ronnie Salone

TrusT

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which recently hired a new police chief, is still reeling from a staffing shortage that has shrunk the force by almost 300 officers and civilians due to retirements, resignations, and other causes since the murder of George Floyd in May 2020.

In December, the MPD released statistics that indicate a record number of firearms were taken off the street in 2022. The MPD confiscated 1,097 guns, two more than the 1,095 guns recovered in 2020 and a 5.3 percent increase over the number of guns confiscated in 2021.

Operation Endeavor is a new public safety strategy designed to increase collaboration among law enforcement, prosecutors, and community groups. It was established last year to focus on five areas of the

rondo

Continued from page 1

community that was divided by the highway constructed between 1960 and 1967. The initiative includes plans to facilitate a Black cultural enterprise district with homes, businesses, and anti-displacement measures. It is the first restorative effort of its kind to be led directly by the community.

Hallie Q. Brown Community Center Executive Director Jonathan Palmer sees the potential of the land bridge and what it can mean for the

VoTing

Continued from page 1

“Voting is one of the most basic building blocks of our democracy. By restoring voting rights for formerly incarcerated Minnesotans, we continue down a path of restorative justice for Minnesotans who have been historically and systemically disenfranchised,” said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. “I cannot overstate the work of the countless organizers, com-

granTs

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city—Cedar Riverside, the East Lake Street corridor, West Lake Street, North Minneapolis and Downtown.

In January, the city’s Office of Community Safety released its 90-day report, which analyzed data from Sept. 27 through Dec. 17, 2022, in the three categories most representative of gun-related violence. The results showed a decrease in violent crime across the board: gun-related violent crime was down over 38 percent from 2021; gunshot wound victims were down nearly 30 percent from 2021; and carjackings were down 65 percent from 2021.

Before arriving in Minneapolis, Alexander spent 40-plus years in various law enforcement and public service roles, including deputy chief in Rochester, New York; public safety director in DeKalb County, Georgia; and as a member of a task force on 21st century policing established by

former President Barack Obama.

“This will be my 46th year in law enforcement,” said Alexander. “Do I have a handle on this whole concept of policing? I would tell you probably not, because it’s constantly evolving.

“When I look back over the course of my career prior to coming here, having held a number of leadership positions, and having been out of the profession three-and-a-half years before I came back, I’m coming back into a very unique situation.

“I’m coming into a community that still has hurt and pain and anger and sadness. So, for me, it’s trying to make sure that I’m connecting with every part of this community,” said Alexander.

However, recruiting more police officers for Minneapolis is not easy, noted Alexander. “We have just got to find new ways to attract young people into this profession. We have to be more thoughtful. We have got to be more energetic. We also have to have the willingness to understand that as technology is evolving, we have got to take this technology now to help us supplant the shortages in police officers that we have.”

Alexander stressed the need for effective community policing that serves all people, especially Black people and people of color. “More importantly than anything else that we know, we’ve learned over the last number of years that we’ve got to build those relationships in our community.

“We’re going to be constitutional. We’re going to be legal, and we’re going to be respectful,” pledged Alex-

community. “There’s an opportunity not only for reconnection across the highway, but

ander. “But in order to move forward, we have to have the willingness to help and work with our local law enforcement.

“This is not just a police department that sits over here by itself as some type of clandestine operation. This has to be a police department, quite frankly, that belongs to the people.”

The public safety commissioner admits that he is still new to Minneapolis and just settling in. “I’m still learning this community,” he admitted. “There’s no way you can have a grasp of a community in six months, or a year, or two years.

“I was invited to come here to help make a difference,” said Alexander. “And I want to try to make as much of a difference as I can. But I can’t do it by myself. It takes an entire community to do this.”

Charles Hallman welcomes reader comments at challman@spokesmanrecorder.com.

ing. There’s great opportunity for amenities to come to this community without disrupting

versial highway-to-boulevard conversion plan, acknowledged the award. “Any funding that addresses past harms from racist transportation planning decisions is progress,” said organization spokesperson Carly Ellefsen.

In 2021, the Minnesota Legislature approved $6.2 million in pre-development funds for Reconnect Rondo, and the organization was awarded $1.5 million to support restorative development and a “net zero” multi-use prototype. Construction of the landbridge project could begin as early as 2026.

munity leaders, and advocates who never gave up the fight. Our democracy is stronger thanks to your work.”

The Chapter 12, House File 28 bill restores the civil right to vote to individuals who have been convicted of a felony upon their completion of any incarceration imposed and executed for the conviction. The bill also requires Department of Corrections or judiciary system officials to provide a written notice and a voter registration application to individuals upon their release from incarceration.

In support of the legislation, The Sentencing Project issued the following statement: “Our movement

community gardens and backyard gardeners that promotes reconciliation, healing, and social justice. For 36 years, Giles has cultivated community while creating greater access to nutritious foods and greenspace for residents in neighborhoods affected by institutional racism.

A healing artist, DejaJoelle founded Body Prayers that uses dance, arts, culture, spirituality, and revolutionary love practices to guide Black people to social, economic, and emotional liberation. For the past 12 years she has been sharing her journey and healing techniques, exploring traditional and innovative ways to promote collective care.

opportunities around what will go on that land bridge in terms of green space, in terms of businesses, in terms of hous-

partners on the ground in Minnesota worked tirelessly to promote civic engagement across the state,” said Nicole D. Porter, senior director of advocacy at the organization. “This legislation is a shining example and beacon of hope for people nationwide

A mental health and violence intervention professional, Farji Shaheer meets with gunshot survivors at the hospital almost immediately, hoping to quell fear, anxiety, despair and retaliation as part of Next Step, a program he co-founded. For more than 20 years, he’s been guiding young Black men toward a healthy, violence-free lifestyle.

An experienced educator who promotes African cultural heritage across his work, Anura Si-Asar is the co-founder of Imhotep Science Academy, a K-12 STEM program for students of African heritage, and Papyrus Publishing, a grassroots publishing company that produces inspiring narratives of African people. He has been a community leader for 37 years.

For the past six years, Corenia Smith has been a strategist and leader in issue advocacy, community organizing, and ballot initiative campaigns focused on reproductive justice, violence prevention, and community wellness. Smith has been recognized for building strategic partnerships and coalitions to mobilize communities to inform laws and vote for change.

Over the last 28 years, Princess Titus has been an educator, organizer, and co-founder of Appetite for Change and Standard Edition Women. At AFC, Titus promotes healthy eating, gardening, youth development, and community engagement to build health, wealth, and social change. At SEW she guides families through trauma-induced transitions, creating an accountable, compassionate and healing space.

Incarcerated for 14 years, Antonio Williams

or taking away homes again,” said Palmer. Our Streets Minneapolis, which has proposed a contro-

seeking their voting rights after their involvement in the criminal legal system shut them out of our democracy.”

Driving Minnesota’s high rate of disenfranchisement is the number of people under community supervision. Historically, anyone with a felony serving probation, parole, or supervised release had to first finish their sentence before their right to vote could be restored.

The Minnesota Restore the Vote legislation ends this practice. Persons completing their sentence on probation and parole can now vote if they are not incarcerated.

Minnesota’s voting laws also dis-

found meaning in mentoring other Black men and organizing them to stand up for their rights, including leading a prison strike that got results. Now he offers personal and leadership development, healing opportunities, and political education to fight for legislation like restoring voting rights.

In December 2022, the CWC and the Pohlad Foundation invited local Black leaders, healers, artists, and agents of change to participate in the inaugural effort. In all, 160 people applied for consideration, and the selection committee invited 60 people to participate in group interviews. With support from a circle of elders, the candidate screeners recommended people from among those interviewed and then determined the final seven initiates in a consensus decision.

“Only together can we create a more just Twin Cities, and through this initiative we are investing in our community’s cultural fabric to do just that,” said Susan Bass Roberts, vice president and executive director of the Pohlad Family Foundation. “Centering wellness in Black activism is a unique approach and one we hope others will model to sustain the energy and focus needed for systemic change.”

The seven initiates will participate in a yearlong journey of self-study to connect their work with their cultural calling through activities that include retreats, elder coaching, group reflection with other cohort members, and other opportunities for learning and discussion. In addi-

H. Jiahong Pan welcomes reader comments at hpan@ spokesman-recorder.com

proportionately disenfranchise Black, Latino, and Indigenous residents who are overrepresented in the state’s criminal justice system. Black Minnesotans make up about seven percent of Minnesota’s population, but comprise 36 percent of the state’s prison population.

Racial disparities among people in Minnesota’s large community supervision programs are also significant. Restoring the vote helps to dismantle the legacy of “Jim Crow” laws by ensuring that people who have experienced imprisonment and criminalization are guaranteed a voice in our democracy.

tion to the $55,000, there is also $15,000 for initiates to allocate to specific responsibilitybridging activities as they take care of themselves so they may better serve the community. In the summer of 2020, the foundation announced it would disburse $25 million to racial justice efforts. As part of this work, the Pohlad Foundation established a Racial Justice Grants Committee to set strategic direction and make funding recommendations.

The committee, which includes community leaders, foundation board members, and Pohlad Companies employees, recognized the perpetual and compounding exhaustion experienced by Black leaders and conceptualized the Black Legacy and Leadership Enrichment Initiative. For several months, the CWC, the foundation, and community members worked together to codesign the initiative with the goal of creating a program by and for the Black community. The three-year pilot will include seven people each year, for a total of 21 awardees.

“I’m coming into a community that still has hurt and pain and anger and sadness.”

ReConnect Rondo Executive Director Keith Baker Courtesy of H. Jiahong Pan

DejaJoelle

Photo courtesy of DejaJoelle

Princess Titus

Photo courtesy of Facebook

“These seven leaders represent the community’s process of rejuvenation and sense of resiliency.”

“Voting is one of the most basic building blocks of our democracy.”

“There’s an opportunity not only for reconnection across the highway, but opportunities around what will go on that land bridge in terms of green space, in terms of businesses, in terms of housing.”

Arts & Culture

New books, shows, and more to celebrate

University Press Books, it’s a worthy read at 328 pages.

By Robin James Contributing Writer

If you enjoy reading about jazz music, the book “Ain’t But a Few of Us: Black Music Writers Tell Their Story” by editor Willard Jenkins should be on your radar. Released by Duke

I’m a contributor and couldn’t be prouder. Presented are two dozen candid dialogues with Black jazz critics and journalists including Robin D.G. Kelley, Farah Jasmine Griffin and John Murph, as well as Angelika Beener, Eugene Holley Jr., Rahsaan Clark Morris, Stanley Crouch and Greg Tate, among others. We write about access and obstacles in the world of jazz writing, which is still very

much dominated by White men. The book also includes not only an anthology section, but also essays and articles by A.B. Spellman, Herbie Nichols, LeRoi Jones and Archie Shepp.

In one book review, Shana L. Redmond (Columbia University) said, “Who should we read when we need to know how to listen to jazz? These writers are the answer. The variety of their paths to writing and insights revealed by it demonstrate why Black writers’ voices and interventions are needed now as much as ever.”

Jazz masters honored

Just in time for Jazz Appreciation Month in April is the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Jazz Masters ceremony and celebration for recipients on April 1, 2023, at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington D.C.

The 2023 NEA recipients are musicians Louis Hayes, Kenny Garrett and Regina Carter, plus Sue Mingus, NEA Jazz Masters Fellowship for Jazz Advocacy.

Along with the prestigious title, the fellowships include an award of 25,000. “From its origins in the Black American experience to what is now a global treasure, jazz continues to be a source of inspiration and creativity, due in large part to the stewards of this tradition, four of whom we are excited to honor this year,” said NEA Chair Maria Rosario Jackson, Ph.D.

It’s interesting to note that this year’s master jazz musicians were all raised in Detroit, Michigan.

SFJazz recently shared on Twitter that they will be joining the NEA and the Kennedy Center to kick off Jazz Appreciation Month with a special live stream of the 2023 NEA Jazz Masters Tribute Concert on Sat., April 1 at 7:30 ET on the SFJazz YouTube Channel. The 2023 NEA marks the 40th anniversary of the NEA Jazz Masters program.

More reasons to celebrate

Speaking of reasons for celebration, last month on February 27 there was a celebration—the 100th birthday of the late great saxophonist Dexter Gordon.

The centennial celebration was underway for the leading bebop tenor saxophonist on February 25, at the Nash in Phoenix, Arizona. The special event was two shows put together featuring Craig Handy, Rickey Woodard, George Cables,

bum is “Doin’ Allright” recorded in 1961 and released on the Blue Note label. Check out the stellar song, “It’s You or No One.”

The saxophonist, woodwind doubler, educator, and compos-

Nat Reeves, and Lewis Nash.

The event was organized and approved by the estate of Dexter Gordon and the Dexter Gordon Society. My favorite Gordon al-

By Sheletta Brundidge

Contributing Writer

Chance York is getting comfortable outside of his comfort zone. York is the outdoor enthusiast, narrator, and on-camera star of “Outside Chance,” an eight-episode web series produced by TPT. Season Two of the series begins March 8.

“Outside Chance” highlights some of Minnesota’s newer and more traditional outdoor activities. In Season One, York tried logrolling, mountain biking, shore fishing, urban farming, geocaching and snow kiting.

“We don’t know what we are going to get when we start. We have an expert and a place, and we go and do it,” York said. “I might be surprisingly good at it, or I might suck.”

With his up-for-anything attitude, York is a game stand-in for viewers as he challenges himself to attempt new activities on land, frozen lakes, and even underwater.

To get dramatic action shots, he often straps mounted mini cameras to his body or a helmet while a drone tracks his thrills (and chills) from overhead. In recognition of its breathtaking production values, “Outside Chance” recently won a regional Emmy Award.

“I’m trying stuff I’ve never done before and documenting the learning curve. The ad libs and wipeouts build the episodes,” York said. “In the snow kiting episode on

[frozen] White Bear Lake, the wind kicked up and that kite dragged me across the ice.”

The completed episodes, each eight to 12 minutes in length, require intense planning by a team of producers and photographers. But once the cameras start rolling, the action is unscripted and relies on York’s personality to carry the unexpected triumphs, surprises and flops.

“I do get scared sometimes,” York confessed. “Where we filmed the rock-climbing episode, someone had died [earlier]. Their gear wasn’t properly situated and it was wet and the rocks shifted. I saw a memorial on the rock as I’m climbing by, and that authentically hit me. You can’t fake that stuff.”

The episodes also serve as a travelog to showcase some

of Minnesota’s well-known outdoor playgrounds as well as stops off an obscure backroad. York wears wetsuits, harnesses and life jackets as he sometimes literally jumps into an activity.

“In the log rolling episode, I did not truly get the hang of it, but I progressed in a couple hours and got better,” he said.

“I trust myself to see what I can do. I want viewers to think about what might happen when they put themselves out there and do their best.”

As a musician, rapper and emcee, York is a seasoned performer, and he may be more athletic than many of his viewers. A longtime yoga instructor, he also teaches meditation and does wellness consulting and health research.

“Yoga taught me to use my

body as the doorway for a deeper understanding of myself and the world. Our bod

ies are wired to produce sen

sations, feelings, emotions. When we live at a desk or behind a screen, our bodies don’t

er Alexa Tarantino appears at the Dakota with her quartet on March 7. When she’s not leading her own band, she enjoys being the newest member of

get those chemicals,” he said.

“When you do something challenging and get thrown off balance, your body reacts by creating a natural high. Do something scary and new and you experience joy. It’s real.”

York often turns to other people of color as his experts, but he downplays the idea that diverse participants don’t embrace the outdoors. “There are still some stereotypes, but I’m exposed to tons of BIPOC people who are outside, and I’ve experienced welcoming attitudes everywhere. I don’t want to be the ‘the outdoors person of color.’ I’m just a guy who happens to enjoy nature and being active.”

York was raised in Minnetonka and grew up enjoying what he calls “lake life.” The youngest of five boys, York laughed when he said his parents chose his name because he was “their last

the all-female group, ARTEMIS. Also appearing at the Dakota on March 21-22 is bassist Christian McBride’s New Jawn. McBride’s New Jawn is his new band that just released the album “Prime” featuring saxophonist Marcus Strickland, trumpeter Josh Evans, and drummer Nasheet Waits. The new album was released by the Mack Avenue label. The group’s second album features original compositions from each band member as well as fresh renditions of songs from the late great Ornette Coleman and living legend Sonny Rollins.

Robin James welcomes reader responses to jamesonjazz@spokesman-recorder.com.

chance for a girl.”

Today, York’s Bloomington home is quite a contrast to the one where he was raised. He is now a devoted “girl dad,” the father of four daughters who range in age from 11 to newborn. He and his wife welcomed their newest baby earlier this year.

“In the past year, I hit some milestones. I turned 40, won an Emmy, and had a new baby,” York said. “I’ve seen opportunities to step outside my comfort zone, try new things, meet new people, get a dose of those feel-good chemicals. That’s what life is for.”

“Outside Chance” can be viewed at tpt.org/outside-chance and on You Tube.

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

Black writers’ voices and interventions are needed now as much as ever.

Chance York (right) biking the Gateway State Trail with Anthony Taylor Submitted photos

Chance York kayaking the Mississippi in Minneapolis

Duke University Press Books

Courtesy of NEA

Hearing the right things across the country

By Ben Jealous

As a lifelong organizer, I know that you grow movements by listening first, so that’s how I’ve spent the last month. As I started a new job as executive director of the Sierra Club. I’ve traveled more than 15,000 miles, crisscrossing the country from the Deep South to New England to the Pacific Northwest to listen.

Our organization is the oldest and most influential grassroots environmental group in the country with chapters in every state and more than 1 million members and supporters. We believe in building coalitions, for example, to shut down hundreds of coal-fired power plants that pollute the air and neighborhoods where 11 million Americans, most of them Black and Brown and poor, live and raise families. What I’ve seen in the last month is that during a time of great peril for our country, Americans still believe that we have things in common worth fighting for. Poor or rich, Black or White, I met with activists who want nothing more than to come together and work side by side even as the voices promoting division seem to be the loudest.

In New York City, I met two women who with three others on their team have written more than 300 letters to the editor in the last year on issues from buildings’ electrification

to cleaner public transportation. In Mobile, Alabama, I met with descendants of 32 West Africans thought to be the last shipment of enslaved people brought to the United States who with other leaders are fighting to save the Africatown community founded by their ancestors. They are waging a lopsided battle against special interests who are displacing residents to build plants that dirty the air and water. Descendants of those who enslaved Africans own many companies involved.

movements, whether by fundraising, legislative advocacy, or lawsuits.

We need this kind of enthusiasm and commitment right now across many issues, and I believe it is there. The struggles over everything from women’s health to voting rights to environmental protection are all intertwined and will play out state by state. We need activists and advocates in every single one.

An example is the once-ina-generation investment this nation will make over the next decade to improve infrastructure and create jobs in ways that have environmental repair and renewal at their core. We will spend more than $700 billion, more than double what we spent to make good on President Kennedy’s pledge to send a man to the moon. While President Biden and Congress have committed that money, the decisions on exactly how it will be spent will happen in cities, counties, and states. We need to ensure the money is spent effectively and not hijacked by special interests. We need to be watchful to win.

These activists understand that, as in the Civil Rights Movement, change always comes from the bottom up, that it is not the politicians who launch change. On the toughest challenges, people lead and politicians follow. The people I met want to grow

The hard truth is that all the self-interested need to do to win is to drive a wedge between us. That’s a much easier task to accomplish than the unity I’ve seen. It just takes a little disinformation mixed with some concocted grievance.

The folks I met show that we’re smarter and stronger than that. We can’t let special interests make us appear more divided than we really are, putting our republic and our planet at even greater risk. Based on what I’ve heard, I’m convinced that many of us are ready to stay vigilant and to oppose those who want nothing more than to profit from dividing us, whether it’s politically or financially.

Ben Jealous is the executive director of the Sierra Club. He is a professor of practice at the University of Pennsylvania and the author of “Never Forget Our People Were Always Free,” published in January.

PERSPECTIVES FROM WITHIN

Minnesota prisons are not accommodating disabled inmates

The following commentary was made possible through a partnership with Twin Cities Incarcerated Workers Organizing Committee.

I am a disabled inmate who has been in a wheelchair for 15 years, incarcerated in the Minnesota Department of Corrections (MNDOC). There have been lots of problems with the accommodations process, approval system and policy, as well as with the coordinators over compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Inmates who need accommodation for their disability have a big problem. For instance, while I was housed in Moose Lake prison, the cells were so small that I couldn’t turn around in the wheelchair. I had to back out of the cell before entering. The wheelchairaccessible cells were used for the dog program. I fought long and hard to be housed in one of those cells.

Now, Moose Lake is a good prison for inmates in wheelchairs, because the inside of the prison is connected by one long hallway. Everything is on a flat surface—no hills, ramps, potholes, or deep cracks in the roads or sidewalks. Also, there is elevator access to the property.

Lino Lake is another story. Inmates cannot be housed in the Christian-program living unit because it’s not wheelchair accessible. The living units also have small cells that are challenging to move around in, especially in the big, one-size-fits-all wheelchairs.

I am now at Faribault, in a cell so small that I can’t fully turn around in this state-

issued wheelchair. The roads are destroyed, making it difficult to move in a wheelchair.

The hills are steep. The prison ramps are so narrow that inmates in wheelchairs going up and down the ramp have little to no room to get by. The ramp has a down-only sign on it. But after an inmate had words with an officer, he campaigned to have us all use the ramp just one way—up or down— even if we have to wait for inmates going in one direction to get to health service.

The administration’s motto is we don’t negotiate with prisoners. How is that rehabilitation?

The ombudsman is not helpful. The wheelchair situation was not investigated. And in response to my grievance, I was denied the option to purchase a right-sized personal wheelchair, and my complaint was thrown out. These are the problems we face.

At Faribault, disabled inmates have to plow through snowstorms to get to the dining hall, pill window, religious services, gym, or school. The thunderstorms are also the worst. This year, we all got stuck in the snow because the physical plant that plows the snow leaves at 4:00 p.m., so when we get snowed in, we still have to make it to the pill window.

Inmates in wheelchairs that have no grips slide up and down the hills and ramps. The inmate wheelchair pushers are scared for their lives, especial-

ly in thunderstorms, because of the metal in the wheelchairs and the possibility of lightning strikes.

The Faribault prison doesn’t have a wheelchair-accessible phone. The phone that was supposed to be used by disabled inmates has been taken over by able inmates. The shower for disabled inmates is scary because inmates walk right in on you in the single shower. It is also small.

There needs to be a thorough ADA review of Minnesota prisons, and they should talk to inmates who are trying to make changes in the prison system. The administration’s motto is we don’t negotiate with prisoners. How is that rehabilitation?

This kind of treatment can build resentment and fear because of the failures of the Minnesota Department of Corrections. Watchdog organizations are needed—ones that have pro bono civil rights attorneys. To build a better prison system, there needs to be accountability for ADA compliance and for failure to provide accommodations, as well as for civil rights and Department of Corrections policy violations. We need the public’s help. Taxpayers, please don’t be cheated and lied to by being told that these accommodations are in place while your money goes elsewhere. We need witnesses. We need politicians to tour the prisons they fund, to keep people safe, and at the same time, we need to rehabilitate convicted felons.

Courtney Bernard Clark

State takeover schemes threaten public safety

By Svante Myrick

Blue cities in red states, beware: Conservatives in state government may be coming for your police department.

It’s happening in Jackson, Mississippi, where state officials have a plan to stand up a new city police force that they would manage. And it’s happening in St. Louis, Missouri, where an outstanding young Black mayor, Tishaura Jones, is facing police unions and state legislators who want to wrest control of the police department from her.

A state bill in the works would remove the city police force from city control and— you guessed it—put it under the control of a Whiter, more conservative state government.

Full disclosure: I know Mayor Jones well, and I know she has been a reformer and a dedicated public servant her entire life. I know she is committed to improving policing and public safety in her city.

Last year, her administration led a study that recommended numerous improvements including ending pretextual traffic stops and increasing unarmed responses. It doesn’t feel like a coincidence that the police unions and right-wing politicians are rebelling now.

But what they are suggesting is not just an affront to Mayor Jones; life in politics is full of affronts. It is in fact deeply undemocratic, and indicative of profound problems.

Police forces are supposed to work for the people in the communities they serve. In this

instance, those people elected Mayor Jones. To reject her leadership is to reject the judgment of the voters who chose it. Those voters chose a leader who ran on a progressive reform platform that included decarceration, emphasizing unarmed responses to 911 calls, and working to better integrate police into the community—including incentives for them to actually live there.

This last item is critical, because when officers do not live in the communities they serve, they become more like an occupying army. Often, racial disparities are a telltale sign of the mismatch. In St. Louis, as in many other large cities, the police force is far Whiter than the city neighborhoods themselves.

And now the unions want out from under city control, and the bill that would accomplish that, Senate Bill 78, includes other things the unions want, too: substantial pay raises and additional positions. I get that. A lot of working families depend on police officer salaries. In fact, a union representing Black officers in the city has come out in support of SB 78.

But returning to a Civil-War era system of state control over the city police—which is what this bill would do—is not the answer. That antiquated

system was already rejected by voters statewide in 2012.

The bigger question is whether this type of reactionary effort will spread. As a former elected official and as head of the nonprofit organization I now lead, I have studied and worked on this issue for many years, and I can tell you that local officials and residents know what they want and need.

Community buy-in is essential to any successful effort to improve public safety, whether we want to fight crime or reduce the risk of violent encounters between residents and police. It makes no sense to move control of police to a higher level of government.

It’s antithetical to what we know about the best way to manage public safety, which is to make it as local as possible. But now the threat exists and can be dangled over the heads of local officials who want to enact progressive change.

That would be tragic, because there is so much we can do to improve public safety at the local level and to improve and save lives. The people who voted for Tishaura Jones know that; they deserve to reap the benefits of the reform they voted for.

Svante Myrick is president of People for the American Way. Previously, he served as executive director of People For and led campaigns focused on transforming public safety, racial equity, voting rights, and empowering young elected officials. Myrick garnered national attention as the youngest-ever mayor in New York State history.

These activists understand that, as in the Civil Rights Movement, change always comes from the bottom up, that it is not the politicians who launch change.

It doesn’t feel like a coincidence that the police unions and right-wing politicians are rebelling now.

Extra pandemic SNAP benefits coming to an end

By Mike Moen

This month, Minnesotans receiving federal food assistance will see their final round of emergency aid prompted by the pandemic.

Additional SNAP benefits offered a bridge to low-income families as they navigated the economic impact of the crisis. Minnesota was one of 32 states still distributing the extra aid, but the federal government has now ended the temporary support, with most final payments going out in March.

Returning to normal benefit amounts in April comes as households continue to grapple with higher grocery costs. Ailen Arreaza, co-director of the national advocacy group ParentsTogether, said their recent survey shows many families are juggling a lot of expenses.

“Sixty-four percent of families are saying that they are having trouble making ends meet right now,” Arreaza reported. “The biggest challenges are paying for things like diapers, formula, paying for utilities, paying for housing.”

the Market Bucks program can allow recipients to triple SNAP dollars at participating farmers markets.

Meanwhile, Arreaza urged families in need to be more outspoken about what is happening. “These types of benefits—that help families, that help kids thrive, that put food on the table for hungry kids—this is something that families deserve,” Arreaza asserted.

Food shelf demand on the rise

Gov. Walz signs bill for emergency funding

By MSR News Service

As Minnesota food shelves see an increase in demand, partly due to the end of pandemic SNAP benefits as well as inflation, on Thursday Gov. Tim Walz signed into law $5 million in emergency funding to food shelves.

The group noted it is especially worried with congressional Republicans floating new work requirements or general cuts to SNAP aid as part of negotiations about the debt limit. GOP lawmakers behind the idea said it is about incentivizing ablebodied people to return to work.

“Minnesota’s food shelves play an essential role in helping Minnesotans feed their families and ease rising food costs,” said Gov. Walz. “As we continue to work to lower costs and make life easier for Minnesotans, this funding will allow food shelves to continue to help working families put food on the table.”

“With this bill, we have the opportunity to help thousands of Minnesotans struggling with food security,” said Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan. “As more Minnesotans look to food shelves to make ends meet, this bill provides critical support to food shelves across the state and helps Minne-

sota’s working families and their children thrive. Because without full stomachs, Minnesotans cannot work, learn and grow.” The bill, House File 213, provides $5 million in emergency funding to the Department of Human Services for food shelf programs through Hunger Solutions. As demand for food shelf services rises, this funding will be distributed as quickly as possible, according to the governor’s office.

With emergency benefits expiring, recipients on average will have $90 less in monthly food aid. Hunger Solutions Minnesota urges these households to learn what their monthly amount will be going forward. They can check online or contact their county office in charge of processing applications.

Recipients also are encouraged to see if changes in their economic status would boost their aid level. And in Minnesota,

Courtesy of MNC

But Democratic leaders are expected to fight the proposals, suggesting they would only make it harder for some people to get back on their feet.

For food shelf info and other resources, visit www.hungersolutions.org/find-help.

Mike Moen writes for Minnesota News Connection.

“These types of benefits are something that families deserve.”

“Without full stomachs, Minnesotans cannot work, learn and grow.”

SOE

Continued from page 12

and his Scots have improved their winning percentage each year under his watch.

“Our goal was to win a conference title this year, and that didn’t happen,” continued the coach as Mac finished 15-11.

“We got a home playoff game. We had 15 wins. We’ve had 11 conference wins, the most since 2004. It was still a good season, a lot to be proud of but short of our goal of winning the title.”

Soph forward Badou Ba was voted MIAC Defensive Player of the Year. The 6-7 Dakar, Senegal native averaged over seven rebounds and more than two blocks per game, led the league with 45 blocked shots, and finished fifth in the MIAC with 152 rebounds.

“His freshman year he averaged three points, three rebounds a game, and didn’t

TOurnamEnT

Continued from page 12

for Coach Whalen for the last three-and-a-half years. It was the best three-anda-half years of my life,” she said of her experience working with Whalen, who announced last week that she has resigned as coach after five seasons.

Celebration then sadness, all within seconds

Wisconsin hit a big shot to take the lead with only seconds remaining against Purdue. But just seconds later, the Boilermakers’ Jayla Smith came down and hit a game-winning buzzerbeater. “I think that was a big shot, especially for us to go to the next round and play Iowa,” Smith told me. “At this time of year, a lot of crazy things can happen,”

start a game,” the coach recalled. “A tremendous jump on his freshman year.”

Ba, junior Caleb Williams, and soph Coby Gold each received all-MIAC honors. The three, along with soph Robert Grace III, all made the Division III Academic All-District team as well.

Woldeslassie is one of four Black head coaches in men’s and women’s basketball at the college level in Minnesota. He is the MIAC’s only Black coach, and by virtue of years of service he is the longest tenured among the state’s Black coaches as well.

“I want to thank our President Suzanne Rivera and [Athletic] Director Donnie Brooks for their leadership,” said Woldeslassie. “It starts with great leadership, and those two are tremendous leaders.”

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

ViEw

Continued from page 12

Nonetheless, the disappointment of not winning the bigger trophy and the right to go to nationals lingers with her and her players minutes after the buzzer sounds.

Even when asked to briefly reflect on the historic season, Moore tried to set aside her own disappointment. “Mesabi is in great hands, and with what we have coming back,” the coach said, “I’m just only going to get better.”

Moore is among four Black head coaches in Minnesota men’s and women’s college basketball. The novelty of her hiring, though groundbreaking, in all reality doesn’t make a bit of difference when it comes to coaching players. They want to know if you know what you are doing.

“I always knew I was gonna be a coach,” recalled Moore. “There are so many people that opened the door for me to be able to just hone my skills as a player.” It’s those player skills that Moore easily applies to her coaching.

“I was a defensive specialist,” she added. “I’m a very passionate coach because I was a passionate player. I have a high IQ, and my players are able to understand what I want them to do.”

That passion shows on the sidelines—Moore fights for every inch for her players during the game. Moore admits that it is hard at times

remarked Badgers Coach Marisa Moseley afterwards.

Final words

Despite the fact that Wisconsin’s season ended on that buzzer beater, Porter said, “I love March Madness. It’s crazy.”

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

to be taken seriously by officials simply because she is a woman.

“As a woman,” she bemoaned, “I have to battle against [officials] every game.”

Last summer, Moore spent time with the NBA’s Boston Celtics summer league team.

“I definitely think I am a better coach from two years ago to now,” she said proudly. “I got a chance to coach with the Boston Celtics. Just learning the NBA philosophies and the things that they do, I was able to learn something that I was able to implement here once I got back.”

Making history is nothing new for Moore. She was the first and only Northsider to ever don a Minnesota Lynx uniform when she was traded from Miami in 2002. She is also the first and only North player ever drafted into the pros, as a 2002 firstround pick in the WNBA. Moore was inducted into the Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame in 2017.

But she wants to do more.

“We had a lot of goals this year,” noted the coach. “We wanted to get more wins— we did that by three. We wanted to be above .500.

“Obviously women can coach college men,” concluded Moore. “My biggest goal is…I would love to make it to the NBA. I don’t care what level that is. That’s my journey.”

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

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For Sale by Bid

Sale 139556, Conveyance 2016-0075: For Sale by bid - MnDOT owned property, 17,005 sf of vacant land located at Alabama St and the TH52 Bridge, St Paul, Ramsey County. To be sold by sealed bid on 4/11/2023 at 2:00 at Central Office, 395 John Ireland Blvd, St. Paul.

Bid Form, http://www.dot.state.mn.us/row/propsales.html

Info LandSales.MN.DOT@state.mn.us

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MN sports-betting bill advances

By Mike Moen

Another Minnesota House committee has endorsed a bill that would allow sports betting within the state, but there are calls to add some provisions as the measure advances.

If approved, licenses would be provided to tribal nations around Minnesota to create sportsbooks at casinos, and Minnesotans age 21 and older could also place wagers through their phones, using online apps.

Bill sponsors have said revenue would go toward regulations and consumer protections, with another 40% used

shared. She said at least two other states have these provisions in their laws. The Minnesota Indian Gaming Association has said it needs more information before commenting on that recommendation.

Key supporters of the plan have said that with more than 30 other states already allowing sports betting, it’s time for Minnesota to take something already being done on the black market and put it under the state’s purview.

David Prestwood, government affairs manager for the online betting firm DraftKings, echoed that sentiment in his testimony.

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to address problem gambling.

Susan Sheridan Tucker, executive director of the Minnesota Alliance on Problem Gambling, said that language is appreciated, but she asked lawmakers if information-sharing can be included, too.

“Operators and their licensees will be collecting quite a bit of data that can help answer many questions that researchers have concerning gambling behaviors,” she said, “and can provide insights into whether more individuals are becoming addicted to gambling.”

Tucker, whose organization is neutral on legalizing sports betting, stressed that no personal information, including a bettor’s identity, would be

“An estimated 1.17 million people in the state are making a combined total of more than $2.5 billion in illegal wagers annually,” he said. “Nearly all of these wagers are placed online in the robust illegal market, where sophisticated illegal operators capitalize on the popularity of this form of entertainment.”

As for the sharing of aggregated data, the bill’s sponsor expressed a willingness to have more discussions about it. More broadly, the current version excludes horse tracks, potentially complicating final passage in the Legislature.

Mike Moen writes for Minnesota News Connection.

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Req. Master’s or foreign equivalent in Business Admin/, Acctg. Finance, Tax or rel. field & 3 yrs. of exp. as accountant, auditor or related occupation in Corporate or Partnership tax reporting OR Bachelor’s or foreign equivalent in Business Admin., Acctg., Finance, Tax or rel. field & 5 yrs. of exp.as accountant, auditor, or related occupation in Corporate or Partnership tax reporting. Must possess a minimum of 3 yrs. with each of the following: Excel to include Pivot Tables, V-Lookup, Data Manipulation, Power BI, & Multiple Embedded Formulas; using ONESOURCE and CORPTAX to prepare & e-file tax returns; CXF; calculation of book to tax adjustments including depreciation; researching tax laws, regulations & rulings using Wolters Kluwer CCH & Bloomberg Tax BNA; preparation of responses to inquiries from federal & state tax authorities; preparation of income tax provisions required under Accounting Standards Codification 740. Position is open to telecommuting from anywhere in the U.S. Apply at https:// jobs.medtronic.com/, Req. #2300029U. 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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Badgers Coach Marisa Moseley

way herein to be taken, and to keep and have the exclusive control of the same, and to acquire a temporary easement in those cases which are herein particularly mentioned.

It is the intention of the above-named Petitioner to move the court for an order authorizing the Hennepin Court Administrator to accept and deposit, in an interest-bearing account, payment from the Petitioner to the court pursuant to Minn. Stat. §117.042.

Further, it is the intention of the above-named Petitioner to move the court for an order transferring title and possession of the parcels herein described, prior to the filing of an award by the court appointed commissioners, pursuant to Minn. Stat. §117.042.

The Petitioner reserves its right to recover costs of clean up and testing and all other damages arising from the presence of pollutants, contaminants, or hazardous materials on the property described herein, from all potential responsible parties, including respondents herein where appropriate, in a separate legal action to the extent permitted by law. III.

That the following described lands in these proceedings taken are situated in Hennepin County, Minnesota; that the names of all persons appearing of record or known to your Petitioner to be the owners of said

Employment & Legals

STATE OF MINNESOTA FOURTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF HENNEPIN ROBATE MENTAL HEALTH DIVISION

NOTICE OF INFORMAL PROBATE OF WILL AND APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

In Re: Estate of Gladys Fair, FILE NO. 27-PA-PR-22-1971

Deceased

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS:

Notice is hereby given, that an application for informal probate of the above named decedent’s last will dated April 14, 2021 has been filed with the Registrar herein, and the application has been granted informally probating such will. Any objections may be filed in the above, and the same will be heard by the Court upon notice of hearing fixed for such purpose.

Notice is hereby further given that informal appointment of Nickson Nyankabaria, whose address is 3630 Penn Ave North, Minneapolis, Mn 55412, as personal representative of the estate of the above-named decedent, has been made. Any heir, devisee or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as personal representative or may object to the appointment of the personal representative and the personal representative are empowered to fully administer the estate including, after 30 days from the date of issuance of letters, the power to sell, encumber, lease or distribute real estate, unless objections thereto are filed with the Court (pursuant to Section 524.3-607) and the Court otherwise orders.

Notice is further given that ALL CREDITORS having claims against said estate are required to present the same to said personal representative or to the Probate Court Administrator within four months after the date of this notice or said claims will be barred.

Dated: February 21, 2023 Lindy Scanlon Registrar

ProSe Sara Gonsalves District Court Administrator Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder March 9, 16, 2023

Shaton

From Classified Department/MN Spokesman-Recorder

PHONE: 612-827-4021

who signed this summons located at: 2700 Snelling Ave N, Suite 460, Roseville, MN 55113.

3. YOU MUST RESPOND TO EACH CLAIM. The Answer is your written response to the Plaintiff’s Complaint. In your Answer you must state whether you agree or disagree with each paragraph of the Complaint. If you believe the Plaintiff should not be given everything asked for in the Complaint, you must say so in your Answer.

4. YOU WILL LOSE YOUR CASE IF YOU DO NOT SEND A WRITTEN RESPONSE TO THE COMPLAINT TO THE PERSON WHO SIGNED THIS SUMMONS. If you do not Answer within 20 days, you will lose this case. You will not get to tell your side of the story, and the Court may decide against you and award the Plaintiff everything asked for in the complaint. If you do not want to contest the claims stated in the complaint, you do not need to respond. A default judgment can then be entered against you for the relief requested in the complaint.

5. LEGAL ASSISTANCE. You may wish to get legal help from a lawyer. If you do not have a lawyer, the Court Administrator may have information about places where you can get legal assistance. Even if you cannot get legal help, you must still provide a written Answer to protect your rights or you may lose the case.

6. ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION. The parties may agree to or be ordered to participate in an alternative dispute resolution process under Rule 114 of the Minnesota General Rules of Practice. You must still send your written response to the Complaint even if you expect to use alternative means of resolving this dispute.

Dated: October 31,

From Classified Department/MN Spokesman-Recorder

PHONE: 612-827-4021

STATE OF MINNESOTA DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF HENNEPIN FOURTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Case Type: Personal Injury Court File No.: TBD Shiniqua Elting, Plaintiff, vs. SUMMONS Shawn Kelahan, Defendant.

TO: DEFENDANT SHAWN KELAHAN

The Petitioner has filed a lawsuit against you to ask for custody of the following minor children:

FOR BILLING INQUIRIES & TEARSHEETS

Hilliard, BORN January 24, 2020

PLEASE CONTACT ACCOUNTING DEPT @ BILLING@SPOKESMAN-RECORDER.COM

This Summons is an official document that affects your rights, even ifit does not have a court file number listed. Read this Summons and the attached Petition can fully. If you do not understand it, contact an attorney for legal advice.

PROBATE PREPAID FLAT RATE: $200

2 WEEK RUN

The Petitioner has filed a Jawsuit agamst you asking the Court to give Petitioner custody of the minor children. You must serve upon Petitioner and file wrth the Court a wntten Answer to the Petition, and you must pay the required filing fee WJless it js wawed by the Court. Answer forms are available on the Minnesota Judicial Branch webpage at www.mncourts gov/forms You must serve your Answer upon the Petitioner within 20 days of the date you were served with this Summons, not counting the day of service. If you do not serve and file an Answer, the Court may decide custody and give Petitioner everything he or she is asking for in the attached Petition.

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The MSR handles billing digitally. This means you will get e-tears and e-mailed invoices unless you specifically request a hard copy.

Dated: December 14, 2022 Shaton Rena Young 2642 Emerson Ave Minneapolis, MN 55411 612-408-6490 shatonyoung@gmail.com Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder March 2, 9, 16, 2023

FOR BILLING INQUIRIES & TEARSHEETS

1. YOU ARE BEING SUED. The Plaintiff has started a lawsuit against you. The Plaintiff’s Complaint against you is attached to this summons. Do not throw these papers away. They are official papers that affect your rights. You must respond to this lawsuit even though it may not yet be filed with the Court and there may be no court file number on this summons.

Please contact Accounting Dept @ billing@spokesman-recorder.com

2. YOU MUST REPLY WITHIN 21 DAYS TO PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS. You must give or mail to the person who signed this summons a written response called an Answer within 21 days of the date on which you received this Summons. You must send a copy of your Answer to the person who signed this summons located at: 2700 Snelling Ave N, Suite 460, Roseville, MN 55113.

SUMMONS PREPAID FLAT RATE: $100 X 3 WEEK RUN TOTAL: $300 IN FORMA PAUPERIS GRANTED

3. YOU MUST RESPOND TO EACH CLAIM. The Answer is your written response to the Plaintiff’s Complaint. In your Answer you must state whether you agree or disagree with each paragraph of the Complaint. If you believe the Plaintiff should not be given everything asked for in the Complaint, you must say so in your Answer.

Please proof, respond with email confirmation to ads@spokesman-recorder.com

Summons. You must send a copy of your Answer to the person who signed this summons located at: Brantingham Law Office 2200 E. Franklin Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55404

3. YOU MUST RESPOND TO EACH CLAIM. The Answer is your written response to the Plaintiffs’ Complaint. In your Answer you must state whether you agree or disagree with each paragraph of the Complaint. If you believe the Plaintiffs should not be given everything asked for in the Complaint, you must say so in your Answer.

4. YOU WILL LOSE YOUR CASE IF YOU DO NOT SEND A WRITTEN RESPONSE TO THE COMPLAINT TO THE PERSON WHO SIGNED THIS SUMMONS. If you do not Answer within 21 days, you will lose this case.You will not get to tell your side of the story, and the Court may decide against you and award the Plaintiffs everything asked for in the Complaint. If you do not want to contest the claims stated in the Complaint, you do not need to respond. A default judgment can then be entered against you for the relief requested in the Complaint.

5. LEGAL ASSISTANCE. You may wish to get legal help from a lawyer. If you do not have a lawyer, the Court Administrator may have information about places where you can get legal assistance. Even if you cannot get legal help, you must still provide a written Answer to protect your rights or you may lose the case.

6. ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION. The parties may agree to or be ordered to participate in an alternative dispute resolution process under Rule 114 of the Minnesota General Rules of Practice. You must still send your written response to the Complaint even if you expect to use alternative means of resolving this dispute.

The MSR handles billing digitally. This means you will get e-tears and e-mailed

unless you specifically request a hard copy.

4. YOU WILL LOSE YOUR CASE IF YOU DO NOT SEND A WRITTEN RESPONSE TO THE COMPLAINT TO THE PERSON WHO SIGNED THIS SUMMONS. If you do not Answer within 20 days, you will lose this case. You will not get to tell your side of the story, and the Court may decide against you and award the Plaintiff everything asked for in the complaint. If you do not want to contest the claims stated in the complaint, you do not need to respond. A default judgment can then be entered against you for the relief requested in the complaint.

5. LEGAL ASSISTANCE. You may wish to get legal help from a lawyer. If you do not have a lawyer, the Court Administrator may have information about places where you can get legal assistance. Even if you cannot get legal help, you must still provide a written Answer to protect your rights or you may lose the case.

6. ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION. The parties may agree to or be ordered to participate in an alternative dispute resolution process under Rule 114 of the Minnesota General Rules of Practice. You must still send your written response to the Complaint even if you expect to use alternative means of resolving this dispute.

Dated: January 6, 2023 AARON FERGUSON LAW. Jeremy Lagasse (#396834) Attorney for Plaintiff 2700 Snelling Avenue North Suite 460 Roseville, MN 55113 651-493-0426 jeremy@aaronfergusonlaw.com

From Classified Department/MN Spokesman-Recorder

PHONE: 612-827-4021

FOR BILLING INQUIRIES & TEARSHEETS

Daniel Jardine (#0397509) Attorney for Plaintiff 2700 Snelling Avenue North Suite 460 Roseville, MN 55113 651-493-0426 djardine@aaronfergusonlaw.com

Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder February 23, March 2, 9, 2023

PLEASE CONTACT ACCOUNTING DEPT @ BILLING@SPOKESMAN-RECORDER.COM

SUMMONS

FLAT RATE: $100 X 3 WEEK RUN

TOTAL: $300 PREPAID

Please proof, respond with email confirmation to ads@spokesman-recorder.com

The MSR handles billing digitally.

This means you will get e-tears and e-mailed invoices unless you specifically request a hard copy.

March Madness includes March sadness

t this time of year, it’s a known fact that all basketball teams except the championship winners will end their season with a loss. No matter the level, the team either will go far in the postseason, make a quick exit, or something in between.

The postseason is a reset for all participants, but it can also be a boon or bust.

Rams get playoff experience

ravis Bledsoe made the jump from coaching high school to the college level. He left Minneapolis De La Salle after five seasons to take over the vacant head coaching job at Anoka-Ramsey Community College this season.

A De La Salle graduate, Bledsoe played and earned his degree at North Dakota, where he finished as the school’s second-best threepoint shooter and sixth in made threes, scoring over 1,100 points in his four seasons.

“I thought we maxed out every ounce of potential we had.”

Macalester reached the MIAC men’s playoffs for the second consecutive season, this time as a fourth seed. However, the Scots lost by two to St. Olaf in the opening round after reaching the finals a year ago as a sixth seed.

“Unfortunately, we didn’t finish,” stated Coach Abe Woldeslassie. Not since 2004 and 2005, has the school’s men’s team made the playoffs in consecutive seasons. Now completing his fifth year at his alma mater, Woldeslassie

■ See SOE on page 9

“It’s night and day,” Bledsoe told us in comparing high school coaching to college, “dealing with grown adults, some of them with kids. It’s a lot of trying to get them prepared for the next level, working to prepare for life in general.”

In his first season, the Rams (13-11 overall) reached the NJCCC Region 13 semifinals before losing to eventual champion Rochester in overtime. “I thought it was important for us in our first year to make this region’s playoffs,” said Bledsoe, a member of the too-short list of Black head coaches at the collegiate level in Minnesota. “We have a lot of kids that got that experience this year.

“I thought we maxed out every ounce of potential we had to make it to the semifinals against the top-rated team, taking them to overtime,” said Bledsoe. “The guys know the system a little bit. They know what to expect from me.”

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

Scots retire early Minneapolis North defeats Johnson for Twin Cities championship

The outstanding play of Larry Perkins, Zashon Rich and AuVon Sager led Minneapolis North— coached by Ricky Davis—to an 86-72 victory over St. Paul Johnson boys’ basketball championship last Saturday afternoon. Perkins, a senior guard, led the Polars with 26 points, junior backcourt mate Rich had 21, and fellow senior Sager added 20. The Polars have won the past six of seven TC titles while participating in the last 10 contests.

The visiting Governors— coached by Colin Moore—got 18 points from senior guard Jay Tinsley, 12 from Kenny Turner, and seven first-half points from junior guard Jalani Mays Minneapolis Southwest won the C-squad TC crown with a victory over Johnson, while North captured the JV title with a win over the Governors as well.

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

Black woman coaches Mesabi Range men

n 2020, Tamara Moore became the first Black woman head coach of a men’s college basketball team in the nation when the North Minneapolis native was hired by Mesabi Range (MN) Community College.

Local voices from the tournament

By Charles Hallman Sports Columnist

ocals shined during last week’s Big Ten women’s basketball tournament in downtown Minneapolis. Here are some of their voices from the tournament:

On the Lynx court

“I’ve been on this court before. It’s really fun.” – Illinois soph guard Adalia McKenzie, Brooklyn Park

Olsen, a veteran broadcaster, added that to show the youngsters four Black adults who were once in sports but are now successful outside of it was very important.

Playing with a chip

Tamara Moore

star, led her current club to a NJCAA Region 13 runnerup finish, losing to champion Rochester at Anoka Ramsey CC on Feb. 26. It was the first time her players experienced March Madness, or in this case, March sadness.

Junior college ball is seen by some as a hoops wasteland for players who didn’t make it to higher levels. The players, however, aren’t slop because there’s good ball played here as well. Moore, a former Minneapolis North, Wisconsin and WNBA

“You want to be champs,” she pointed out, as we sat on the bench after she and her players received their individual second-place medals and the runner-up trophy. The Norsemen went farther than they expected, farther in fact than they had since the 1950s.

■ See View on page 9

“It was really exciting. I watched the Lynx when I was growing up.” – Nebraska soph forward/guard Kendall Coley, Minneapolis

“I never played on the court before. The minute that I did [get to play], tried to make the most out of it. And I got a

three out of it. It felt good.” –Wisconsin frosh guard Ronnie Porter, St. Paul, who connected on her only shot attempt, a three-pointer against Michigan State.

Teaching them young

Around 30 local youth, mostly boys and girls of color, participated in last Thursday’s Practice With A Purpose basketball clinic hosted by Gopher alums Lea B. Olsen, Eric Curry, Kiara Buford and Crystal FlintHolloman.

The goal? “To have fun and be active,” said Buford, a school behavioral specialist, explaining the primary goal of the 90-minute session. “And to introduce them to basketball, whether they love it or it’s their first time.”

The 5’10” McKenzie provides her team with muchneeded energy, said Illini Coach Shauna Green. “She’s just a hard-nosed, blue-collar kid. We need her to keep playing with that chip and continue to be that energizer for us.”

Still learning

The 6’2” Coley is still learning how to be an effective college player, said Nebraska Coach Amy Williams. “She’s been really maturing and learning. We feel like Kendall hasn’t tapped into and reached her full potential just yet. We know her best basketball is in front of her.”

First year out of the way

“I think I’ve grown as a player and a person. Got a lot of grow-

ing to do, “said the 5’4” Porter, who starred at Como Park. “I’m willing to do whatever I can to help this team be better than the previous season.”

Eight was enough Rutgers played all season with an eight-player roster. They posted a 1-1 tournament mark last week. “I’m just proud of them,” said first-year Coach Coquese Washington. “We had a lot of reasons to come into this season and say, ‘We don’t have enough or we’re missing this or missing that.’ We never did.”

The best years

Neesha Moore was the Gophers student manager for almost four years. “I worked

“Unfortunately, we didn’t finish.”

Abe Woldeslassie All photos by Charles Hallman

Travis Bledsoe

Badou Ba

St. Paul Johnson guard Jelani Mays

Minneapolis North senior guard Larry Perkins surrounded by St. Paul Johnson players Kenny Turner and Jay Tinsley

Minneapolis North senior guard AuVon Sager All photos by Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald

Minneapolis North junior guard Zashon Rich

“As a woman, I have to battle against officials every game.”

Photo by Charles Hallman

“At this time of year, a lot of crazy things can happen.”

Kendall Coley

Photos by Charles Hallman

Adalia McKenzie

Rutgers Coach Coquese Washington