THE VOICE OF BLACK MINNESOTA SINCE 1934
May 5 - 11, 2022
Vol. 88
PRST STD U.S.POSTAGE PAID TWIN CITIES MN PERMIT NO. 6391
Inside this Edition...
Read about ‘Celebrating the Sistas’ on page 2.
www.spokesman-recorder.com
No. 40
State report confirms racism, sexism among Mpls police By Cole Miska Contributing Writer
Mayor says he’s outraged and horrified, but some question his sincerity
A
Photo courtesy of MGN
fter a nearly two-year investigation, the Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR) has found the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) engaged in a pattern of racial and gender discrimination. According to the 72-page report released on April 27, MPD is more likely to stop, search, cite, arrest, and use force against Black civilians than their White counterparts. They also had a pattern of using racist and sexist epithets on body camera footage, and used
fake social media accounts to surveil activists who were not suspected of a crime. The report was compiled based on interviews conducted by the MDHR with a wide variety of City officials and MPD officers and administrators, as well as 2,200 community members who have interacted with MPD. Statistics from between 2010 to present, 480,000 pages of City and MPD documents, and 700 hours of body camera footage were also examined for the report. MDHR Commissioner Rebecca Lucero and Deputy Commissioner Irina Vaynerman held a press conference on Wednesday to present the findings.
“This investigation is not about one individual or one instance, but whether there is a pattern within the police department of treating people of color and indigenous people differently because of their race,” Lucero said. According to the findings, Black people are almost twice as likely to be pulled over by the MPD than White people. Also, 78% of vehicle searches were conducted against Black people despite Black people comprising 19% of Minneapolis’s demographic makeup. “We found that MPD officers are more likely to stop vehicles with people of color and Indigenous individuals, ■ See MPD on page 5
LAKE STREET GETS REBUILT—AND REIMAGINED
Photo by Paige Elliott By Abdi Mohamed Contributing Writer Having grown up on Lake Street in South Minneapolis, Chris Montana was able to see the corridor transform from virtually nothing into the vibrant cultural district that it’s become today. “In the early ‘90s, that part of Lake Street wasn’t much to look at. There were a lot of abandoned buildings, and a lot of entrepreneurs of color came in and turned it around,” he said. Montana is now one of those entrepreneurs who has brought change to the corridor as the owner and founder of Du Nord Social Spirits, a distillery located on Lake and East 32nd Street and the first Black-owned distillery in the nation. He founded the business nine years ago and in the spring of 2020 nearly lost it all.
Montana’s distillery, like hundreds of other businesses along Lake Street, was damaged by the civil uprising that occurred in the days following the police killing of George Floyd in 2020. Overall, the Twin Cities area incurred more than half a billion dollars in damages that summer. The cost was enough to shutter many businesses that were already struggling to stay afloat. “I know how many things had to go right to create the Lake Street corridor that we have, and to lose it in the span of a couple of days is heartbreaking,” Montana said of the arson and looting that took place during the uprising. “Because we’re usually undercapitalized, we don’t have a lot of margin for error. It only takes a couple of things going wrong for us to go out of business,” he added. Hundreds of small businesses owners found
Where climate change and racial justice intersect By Charles Hallman Contributing Writer
director of the Gulf Coast Center for Law & Policy. In her position, Battle develops programming focused on equitable disaster recovery, global Black people need to be more aware of climate migration, community economic development, change and how it shapes our lives, contends climate justice and energy democracy. She was Colette Pichon Battle, the founder and co-executive in town last week for the Westminster Town Hall series on climate change science and solutions. She spoke to the MSR a few hours before her April 27 appearance at Westminster Presbyterian Church in downtown Minneapolis. “I feel like Black folks have got to wake up to this because we are going to be the first ones hit and sacrificed,” said Battle, “and always we’re the first ones to perish in this thing that we are not paying any attention to.” Battle is a generational native of Bayou Liberty, Louisiana, located in the Gulf Coast, which makes up Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas, Alabama and Florida. She has worked with local communities, elected officials, and others in the post-Katrina and post-Deepwater Horizon oil spill disaster recovery and actively advocates for climate change mitigation and adaptation with racial justice and equity at its core. Colette Pichon Battle Photo by Charles Hallman ■ See CLIMATE on page 5
themselves in need of millions of dollars in repairs at the onset of a global pandemic. The situation called for massive fundraising and advocacy that individual business owners could not bear on their own. Lake Street Council channels funds Allison Sharkey is the executive director of the Lake Street Council (LSC), a nonprofit organization that caters to the business community along Lake Street. After witnessing the damage take place, Sharkey knew that her organization would have a role to play in helping the business owners rebuild after the uprising. “In 2020, after everything happened in May and June the day after the first fires happened on Lake Street, we thought, ‘Oh, wow, there’s going to be a need for direct support for businesses to recover,’” she recalled.
The council jumped into action and created a campaign titled “We Love Lake Street” to raise funding for businesses along the corridor hit by the uprising. They raised more than $12 million from over 80,000 donors. That money went to the immediate relief of business owners on Lake Street, some of whom had lost everything. After the Trump administration denied Minnesota’s request for disaster relief, people turned to local organizations like the LSC for assistance. “It felt like our community was really unprepared for this and that it was up to the grassroots organizations on the ground to step in and provide support. That was pretty shocking to me,” Sharkey said. She credits the organization’s deep community ties in the community to how it was able to connect with hundreds of business owners and divvy up millions of ■ See LAKE ST on page 5
State’s first Black-owned bank opens for business By Cole Miska Contributing Writer
First Independence Bank, which is headquartered in Detroit, held a grand opening ceremony at its The first Black-owned bank new Minneapolis branch on Unibranch in Minnesota celebrated versity Avenue in Prospect Park. About 150 community its opening on Tuesday, April 26.
members, business leaders and politicians, including Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, attended the ribbon-cutting ■ See BANK on page 5
Damon Jenkins cuts the ribbon at the First Independence grand opening on April 26. Facebook/First Independence Bank
2 May 5 - 11, 2022
Metro
Minnesota house Celebrating sistas never gets old approves public safety bill riday, the Minnesota House of Representatives passed the DFLbacked public safety and judiciary finance bill on a vote of 68-61. The package invests $200 million to help Minnesota tackle some of the largest challenges to keeping people and communities safe. The bill also funds justice system services for the first time in decades with $140 million in new investments. Calling the measure “innovative,” the bill’s author, Rep. Carlos Mariani (DFL-St. Paul), said in a released statement, “Minnesota is facing some urgent public safety challenges, and people are counting on us to deliver comprehensive, innovative, statewide solutions. “While it builds capacity for law enforcement and traditional public safety institutions, our budget also builds capacity in community-based ideas and delivers resources to support the communities
hire additional personnel, and rebuild community trust. House DFLers are also working to advance juvenile justice measures including grants for prevention, intervention, mental health and wellness, including a prohibition on solitary confinement of juveniles, funding the Youth Conflict Resolution Center, i nvesting in Youth Intervention Programs, and more. “We’ve worked hard this session to put together a Public Safety bill that actually works to reduce crime, support law enforcement, and ensure that the system works for everyone in Minnesota,” said Rep. Frazier. “I’m grateful for the officers, community advocates, and expert researchers who have come forward to help us craft the best bill possible. It’s time to move toward new ideas rather than rehashing the tired policies of the past,” added Rep. Frazier.
MGN that need them most,” continued Rep. Mariani, chair of the House Public Safety & Criminal Justice Reform Committee. The budget includes the Public Safety Innovation Act, authored by Rep. Cedrick Frazier (DFL–New Hope), with $150 million worth of investments in expedited, data-driven strategies for communities to address increasing crime,
The budget invests in communities of color by establishing an Office for Missing and Murdered Black Women and Girls, a Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives tip reward fund, and funding to create the Healing House, a space where Indigenous women involved in the justice system can receive traumainformed support and get on
Top: (l-r) Calandra Revering, Shelly Carthen Watson, Judge Tanya M. Bransford, Dr. Joi Lewis and Woke Weah, Dr. Faynesse Miller, Kenya McKnight-Ahad and Keiona Cook. Bottom: (l-r) Kevin Johnson, Karl Michele Smith, Rev. Dr.Tracey Gibson, Gwen Matthew, Sherrie Pugh, Jasmine Brett Stringer, and MC Neda Kellogg All photos, including the front teaser of honoree Georgia Fort, by Travis Lee. By Travis Lee Contributing Writer he Doubletree Hotel in Bloomington was bustling with a rhythmic energy—the kind that only women of color can produce. Vibrant colors, elegant hairstyles, and sweet fragrances filled the lobby in anticipation of the 15th Annual Celebrating the Sistas (CTS) event on May 1. Women of all shapes and
shades socialized while being serenaded by the soulful sounds of jazz pianist Wenso Ashby, KMOJ’s Walter “Q Bear” Banks, and DJ Dime as the ballroom filled for the main event. There was something special about this group of sistas. I lost count of how many areas of influence and power were concentrated in one space, from doctors, lawyers, judges and activists to journalists,
educators, and real estate brokers, to name a few. The award ceremony was hosted by Neda Kellogg and featured inspiring acceptance speeches by the 10 awardees who were all in attendance. One common thread expressed by all the honorees was the gratitude to event founder Kevin “KJ” Johnson, who said that he created the event because he thought women of color
weren’t truly being recognized for their contributions to the community. Johnson seemed reluctant to receive the praise and was almost brought to tears as he was asked to come to the stage and be acknowledged by awardee Gwen Matthews.
the path to stability. Labor trafficking laws are also addressed in the bill, as well as accountability for people who commit domestic violence. “All Minnesotans deserve to be safe in their communities— no matter where we live or what we look like,” said House Speaker Melissa Hortman. The package includes numerous provisions to help those previously convicted of crimes turn their lives around following past mistakes, including the Clean Slate Act
which removes barriers that make it difficult to access housing, education and employment. Additionally, the bill includes $4 million in additional direct assistance to crime victims, a measure authorizing the use of GPS devices to track stolen vehicles, funding to increase forensic and analytical capacity at the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, an expanded definition of computer theft crimes, and more. The bill also funds each
sector of the justice system, which functions as a three legged stool made up of the Courts system, Public Defense, and Civil Legal Services. In addition, the bill eliminates fees for uncertified copies of public court documents, establishes an Office of Appellate Counsel for parents, and establishes increased ongoing funding for the Family Resiliency Partnership. The Republican-controlled Senate has already passed its own “tough-on-crime” public
safety bill that offers $100 million in statewide incentives for officer recruitment and retention and tougher penalties for certain offenses like carjacking, while placing limits on prosecutorial and judicial discretion. The two legislative bodies will need to reconcile the contrasting bills in order to pass a measure that addresses the state’s spike in crime.
Photo of the Week Charles Hallman, MSR sports columnist and 2022 U.S. Basketball Writers Association Hall of Fame inductee, tossed out the ceremonial pitch before the Minnesota Twins took on the Detroit Tigers on April 28. Hallman grew up rooting for the Tigers in his native Detroit.
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pon entering Ace Hardware on 38th and Nicollet Ave. in South Minneapolis, you probably wouldn’t be able to tell that the store was recently ravaged by thieves. But around 12:45 am on April 22, the shop was rocked by robbers. “Early Friday morning, [thieves] broke through the front door and stole $5,000 to $6,000 worth of mainly power tools,” the store’s co-owner
"I can handle $40 a month vs. $234 every two weeks. So, it was a big, big relief." -Lara, Program Participant
Minnesota's only nonprofit with a predatory loan refinancing program.
This story was provided in part by the Minnesota House of Representatives.
Shop owners appreciate community support after robbery By Paige Elliott Digital Editor
Courtesy Twitter/Twins
Travis Lee welcomes reader responses to tlee@spokesmanrecorder.com.
The broken front door after the burglary at Ace Hardware Facebook/Ace Hardware Sam Rosch told the MSR. Initially, two people broke in. But it soon became “a
snatch and grab” as “six different people came in [and] took whatever they wanted,” read a post on the store’s Facebook page. “Some even helped themselves to a red Ace wheelbarrow to help get all the power tools in the vehicle,” read the post. As other media outlets have reported, hours passed before Rosch and co-owner Elena Nelson were notified by their security company that the store had been broken into. “We had an alarm issue; you can say a malfunction,” Rosch said. “I’m not really sure. The alarm company also doesn’t know. Since then, we have a new alarm company— as you can understand.” A week after the break-in, the store showed no signs of damage. The shop was abuzz with activity on Saturday afternoon, April 30, with a robust check-out line that wrapped around the store and the shop’s trusty cats, who are sisters, asleep in their box on the back counter. “We wanted it to not look like anything happened as fast as possible and not alarm anybody,” Rosch said. On Wednesday he had new glass installed in the front to replace the
Sam Rosch
MSR file photo
boarded-up windows. Since word of the break-in traveled, the diverse community of customers have rallied their support for the business. Rosch described the outpouring as “overwhelming.” He said, “There’s been really awesome support from the community. Customers really have been reaching out— phone calls, stopping in saying how sorry they are and how much they appreciate us, which really makes us feel good because we love this community. “We’re not going anywhere.” Paige Elliott welcomes reader responses to pelliott@spokesman-recorder.com.
Health
May 5 - 11, 2022
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Considering a tummy tuck? Here’s what you need to know Reasons to consider surgery A tummy tuck is suitable for men and women who are in good health. Good candidates are those who have lost a lot of weight and still carry excess fat and loose skin around the belly. Also, women who have been pregnant may want a tummy tuck to get rid of the loose skin and to tighten their abdominal muscles. Why is that? After pregnancy or after major changes in By Dr. Valerie Lemaine, M.D, your weight, your abdomen has M.P.H. been stretched and is more likeGuest Contributor ly to protrude. This is caused by the loss of elasticity of the skin, Tummy tuck surgery is a excess skin, and stretching of cosmetic surgery that in- your abdominal muscles. volves removal of excess skin and fat in your abdomen, A tummy tuck isn’t right for and, in most cases, tighten- you if: ing of weakened or separat• You plan to lose a lot of ed abdominal muscles (that weight. A tummy tuck is not famous “six pack”). The med- a substitute for weight loss ical name of the procedure is and a healthy lifestyle that “abdominoplasty.” With tum- includes regular exercise. It my tuck surgery, your abdo- should be done as a last resort men will look firmer, flatter when you have tried regular and smoother. exercise and weight control. • You plan to get pregnant. If you are considering It is advisable to postpone your surgery until after you’re tummy tuck surgery to done having children. improve the appear• You are a smoker. Smokance of your abdomen, ing increases your risk of comyou should meet with a plications and slows healing. If skilled board-certified you smoke, your plastic surplastic surgeon. geon will recommend that you stop smoking before your surTummy tuck surgery is gery and during your recovery. not the same as liposuction. • You have major health Liposuction removes flab or problems. If you have health excess fat only. It does not conditions such as heart distake care of excess skin. You ease, irritable bowel syndrome may choose to get liposuc- or diabetes, a tummy tuck surtion along with a tummy tuck. gery may not be safe for you.
How a tummy tuck is done During a tummy tuck, your plastic surgeon will cut your stomach skin from hip bone to hip bone to remove excess skin and fat from your abdomen. If you previously had a C-section, your plastic surgeon might be able to incorporate that scar into your tummy tuck scar. If you have stretch marks below your belly button, there is a good chance that those stretch marks will be removed with surgery. In most cases, the abdominal muscles are then tightened with sutures during surgery. The remaining skin is then repositioned to create a more toned look. Your belly button will also be moved during surgery. After surgery, your plastic surgeon will recommend how long you will stay in the hospital. In some cases, it is possible to go home the day of surgery. You will need ice packs and to wear loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to put on and take off. What can you expect after surgery? Your abdomen will be swollen and tender. You may have a surgical drain coming out of your abdomen. Your plastic surgeon will prescribe pain medication. You will also wear special dressings on your scars, and a compression garment. If your abdomen feels tight, you should sleep in a beach chair position, with pillows under your knees. You will have to limit physical activ-
Is a tummy tuck right for you? • Scarring ity for at least six weeks af• Loss or malposition of the ter surgery. You may need to take up to one month off belly button • Blood clots work, depending on the type of work you do. Does insurance cover a tummy tuck? Risks Health insurers generally do In addition to the standard risks of surgery such as the not cover cosmetic surgery that risks associated with general is done without a medical reason. By removing excess skin anesthesia, your plastic surgeon should discuss other and fat, and tightening your risks associated with tummy abdominal muscles, a tummy tuck can improve the appeartuck surgery, such as: ance of your abdomen. Re• Infection sults are usually long-lasting • Bleeding • Wound healing problems, as long as you maintain a staincluding slow healing and ble weight after surgery. If you are considering loss of skin tummy tuck surgery to im• Numbness • Fluid accumulation beneath prove the appearance of your the skin (also known as “seroma”) abdomen, you should meet
Pexels
with a skilled board-certified plastic surgeon. This article was previously published in the MSR. Dr. Valerie Lemaine, M.D., M.P.H., is a board-certified plastic surgeon in private practice in Edina, MN. She received her M.D. from University of Montreal, Canada, and her M.P.H. from Columbia University, NY, USA. She also completed a reconstructive microsurgical fellowship at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City. Dr. Lemaine then accepted a staff position at the prestigious Mayo Clinic where she taught, practiced and published clinical research until 2018.
4 May 5 - 11, 2022
Business
Sisterhood in the Workplace: Supporting Black and Latina Women beyond Women’s History Month Sponsored Content:
To support Black and Hispanic women in the workplace, we must understand the unique challenges they face and advance solutions. Young Black and Latina girls are more likely to identify as leaders than girls of other races. However, when they grow up, the disparities they face when it comes to pay and opportunity are jarring. In fact, according to the US Census, Black women were paid 63% of what non-Hispanic White men were paid. That means it takes the typical Black woman 19 months to be paid what the average White man takes home in 12 months. And Latinas endure the widest pay gap of any group, earning just 57 cents on the dollar compared to nonLatino White men. It’s no secret that gender bias plays a role in income disparities, and unfortunately, these inequities intensify when considering compounding factors like race and ethnicity. JPMorgan Chase is increasing awareness around Byna Elliott, Head of Advancing Black Paththese inequalities and is committed to using its ways, JP Morgan Chase resources to make real change – not just during Women’s History Month, but every month. Q: How is JPMorgan Chase helping Black and Hispanic/Latina -owned businesses grow and expand?
Courtesy Getty Images JPMorgan Chase has dedicated divisions that specialize in outreach to diverse audiences. Silvana Montenegro, Head of Advancing Hispanic & Latinos and Byna Elliott, Head of Advancing Black Pathways at JPMorgan Chase recently discussed their perspectives on women in the workplace, and how the company is helping to create an equal playing field.
Byna: The number of Black and Latina women becoming entrepreneurs is continuing to rise at an accelerated rate. Black business ownership is up by almost 30% on pre-pandemic levels and Black women are the fastestgrowing group of female entrepreneurs. Similarly, Latinas are more likely to own—or plan to own—their own businesses than non-Hispanic women. We want to see entrepreneurs not simply do well, but thrive! Partnership is key in helping to reach Black and Latina entrepreneurs with helpful resources. Internally, we partner across our business – including with our community and consumer branch colleagues who are often the face of the company to entrepreneurs – to offer business education, coaching and banking solutions to business owners. But external partnerships are also critical to our efforts. For example, ABP partnered with digital undivided to launch BREAKTHROUGH, a business-intensive program designed to help women of color entrepreneurs propel their businesses. The curriculum for the program includes programming on strengthening customer engagement and banking relationships, as well as identifying and implementing business models. Upon completion of the program, each participant receives a $5,000 grant to invest in their business.
Silvana: We’ve also introduced a new partnership with Elevate Together™—a program designed to support the growth and prosperity of Black and Hispanic-and Latino-owned small businesses in collaboration with U.S Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) and The ODP Corporation (The ODP). We are supporting this year’s expansion by being the exclusive provider of bilingual financial education content through Chase for Business modules and supporting the creation of an online platform where participants can register to access materials free of charge. Through this initiative, JPMorgan Chase is helping the program exSilvana Montenegro, Head of Advancing His- pand into six new cities – Detroit, Dallas, Fort panic & Latinos, JP Morgan Chase Worth, Houston, Minneapolis and Phoenix -- in addition to the original five locations (Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles, Philadelphia and Q: How is JPMorgan Chase working to South Florida). tackle income inequity for Black and Hispanic/Latina women? Q. Success in the workplace can be impacted by what is accomplished at the colleSilvana: We realize that tackling income ingiate level. To what extent is JPMorgan Chase equality requires consistent programming that reaching Black, and Hispanic and Latino focuses on inequity both in the workplace and women students and how are you helping to in the educational environment Black and Hissee them succeed in the workplace? panic/Latina women are in before they start working. Advancing Black Pathways (ABP) and Byna: Students are undoubtedly a vital auAdvancing Hispanic & Latinos (AHL) were born dience—they are our future! Both Advancing out of recognition that, while our company has Black Pathways and Advancing Hispanics & made efforts to be inclusive and impactful in all Latinos offer Fellowship Programs, which aim activities, we need to be very intentional in our to increase opportunities for underrepresentapproach to our work. ABP was established to ed communities in the financial industry. help the Black community chart stronger paths The ABP Fellowship Program launched in toward economic success and empowerment, 2019 and the AHL program will commence while AHL is a way for us to drive meaningful its inaugural cohort this year. Since beginning, and sustainable change for the Hispanic and nearly 700 students have participated in the Latino communities. programs, more than half of which identify as Through these initiatives, we’ve created a female. set of activities focused on entrepreneurship, The programs provide a six-week paid, career readiness and support, financial health, full-time fellowship held during the summer and community development. Women are a months for rising sophomore college stucore audience for all of our efforts.
dents who identify as Black and Hispanic provide helpful and engaging content for all and Latino. This opportunity exposes stu- of our students, customers, and community dents to hands-on experience, mentorship, members. and a project-based curriculum, designed to Q. Finally, while both of your respective help build a pathway to future opportunities. programs provide so many great services, Silvana: Additionally, we recently es- do you ever collaborate on strategies and tablished a partnership with the Hispanic initiatives? Scholarship Fund—one of the nation’s largByna: Absolutely! Within our company, est non-profit organizations supporting higher education for Hispanic and Latino we are viewed as what we call a “center of students—to grow the entry-level pipeline excellence,” which mostly means that we of Hispanic and Latino employees, expand are seen as spearheads for large strategies campus recruiting opportunities and pro- and resources as it relates to our specific vide financial education for Hispanic and communities. But diversity and inclusion is a shared priority for all divisions and is not Latino students. limited to what we drive. Byna: While both programs are open to Silvana: For example, last year, J.P. Morall Black and Hispanic/Latino students, we find that these programs are especially valu- gan Wealth Management hosted Building able for young Black and Hispanic/Latina A New Legacy: A Summit for Black and Lawomen students because of their significant tina Women. The virtual celebration of sislack of representation in the financial sec- terhood provided a unique space for Black tor. We also make a point of covering topics, women, Latinas and all allies to take an inand pairing women students with mentors vesting journey together. Through live disthat can speak to the unique challenges of cussion panels, one-on-one sessions with Black and Hispanic/Latina women in the celebrities and on-demand conversations, the event served as a platform to help proworkforce. mote education on building and retaining Q. Aside from student resources, what wealth. While we supported our colleagues, financial educational resources do you pro- this activity was driven by a need to bring vide for Black and Hispanic/Latina women? rich content to an important audience – an audience we will continue to prioritize in all Byna: While changing income inequity of our efforts. takes systemic change, there are individual Sponsored content from JPMorgan Chase measures that can be put in place to make sure Black and Hispanic/Latina women are & Co. fully equipped with the financial education To learn more about the various impact and tools they need to be successful. We strive to help all generations create a vision initiatives we have at JPMorgan Chase & Co and a foundation for their financial future, no please visit https://www.jpmorganchase.com/ matter where they are starting, by promoting impact. You can also learn more about both the education on financial health, homeowner- Advancing Black Pathways and Advancing Hisship, and increased savings and investments. panic and Latinos and the follow sites: https:// We’ve transformed our content creation www.jpmorganchase.com/impact/people/ process, bringing in creative ideas and advancing-black-pathways. https://www.jpmstrong collaborations with Chase commu- organchase.com/impact/people/advancingnity managers and community partners to hispanics-latinos.
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE AFFECTS YOUR WHOLE BODY
IS YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE HIGHER THAN 120/80?
HEART DISEASE
KIDNEY DISEASE
STROKE
LOSS OF VISION
MEMORY ISSUES
High blood pressure (hypertension) can lead to heart disease, kidney disease and stroke. Monitoring your blood pressure at home can help you know your numbers! Talk to your provider or healthcare team to help get your blood pressure under control.
May 5 - 11, 2022
MPD Continued from page 1
and they treat Black and White individuals differently once they have pulled someone over,” Lucero said. The report also found that the use of racist and misogynistic language was common in the department, and that officers were not consistently reprimanded for such language. “According to body-worn camera footage, discipline records, statements from community members, and interviews with MPD officers, some MPD officers and supervisors use racial slurs,” the report states. “They call Black individuals ‘n*****s’ and ‘monkeys’ and call Black women ‘Black b*****s.’ “One MPD supervisor referred to Somali men as ‘orangutans.’ Similarly, community members reported examples of MPD officers calling Latino individuals ‘beaners.’ MPD officers reported that their colleagues called fellow Black MPD officers ‘nappy head’ and ‘cattle.’” The MDHR reports that the MPD used
Bank Continued from page 1
ceremony. Damon Jenkins, the bank’s senior vice president and Twin Cities Regional Market president, cut the ribbon. In an unusual move, five competitors helped bring First Independence to Minneapolis. US Bank, Wells Fargo, Bremer Bank, Bank of America, and Huntington Bank joined together and pooled resources to help First Independence set up business in Minneapolis. Danielle Squires, head of Diverse Segments for Corporate & Investment Banking at Wells Fargo, explained that Wells Fargo was fulfilling a pledge it made to invest in
Lake St Continued from page 1
dollars to them so quickly. The LSC announced its We Love Lake Street Acquisition and Predevelopment Funds last month, which have already been awarded to 20 business owners and nonprofit organizations “to help them rebuild and invest in property on Lake Street.” A total of $710,000 in funding and $600,000 in predevelopment funding have been distributed so far. “Our current program does forgivable loans up to $100,000, so if someone is ready to buy we can provide up to 10% of the purchase price with a cap of $100,000,” Sharkey said. The predevelopment fund goes up to $50,000 for each recipient and helps them with things such as environmental testing and architecture services. One business that was
“covert social media accounts” where MPD officers posed as community members to “surveil and engage Black individuals, Black organizations, and elected officials unrelated to criminal activity, without a public safety objective.” The report states that one officer used a fake account to RSVP to the birthday party of “a prominent Black civil rights lawyer and activist.” Some community members have speculated this event may refer to the birthday of local Civil Rights Lawyer Nekima Levy Armstrong. Levy Armstrong did not return a request for comment. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, who has control over the MPD, reviewed the report and called it “repugnant, at times horrific… It made me sick to my stomach and outraged and I think
Black-owned banks after the murder of George Floyd. “The murder of George Floyd in May of 2020 gave everyone a lot to think about, including the recognition that we all need to do things differently,” Squires said. “And differently is the key—we need to do things better to reduce racial wealth gaps.” Executives from the five banks got together following Floyd’s killing to talk about what could be done to reduce economic racial disparities. The banks decided one solution was to bring in a Blackowned and controlled bank. Squires noted that First Independence was chosen for its “successful track record, excellent leadership, and unwavering commitment to make a difference to the community.” Jenkins said he hopes to awarded that funding was MIGIZI, a nonprofit organization that provides cultural and academic support to American Indian students in the Twin Cities with job training for media and environmental careers. Kelly Drummer is the current president of MIGIZI, which is now located on 1845 E. Lake Street after losing their former building located on 27th and Lake to a fire. “Since the fire, they have supported us tremendously,” Drummer said of the LSC. Drummer and others were asked to be a part of a leadership team to share their perspectives on what direction they’d like to see Lake Street go in during this time of change. “When Allison pulled together a group of us that had different types of businesses and worked along Lake Street, it was really important to get feedback from all of the businesses on what was happening and their challenges,” she said. Montana’s business is also one of the recipients of the award. He shared that the LSC
Climate Continued from page 1
“I think we’re dealing with an industry that has the most power in the world, especially in our government, especially in the South,” continued Battle. “And they were really trying to avoid liability and accountability at all costs, and make record profits. The truth is, this has been a political move from the beginning.” Her 30-minute speech and Q&A afterward last week focused on how citizens can respond to climate disasters and ensure migration in ways that can actually make positive change for communities of color. “I pray every day that the almost 2,000 lives that were lost in Katrina are not lost in vain,” she told the audience. “I pray every day that people will understand that this climate crisis is not something of the future, but it is something that is
that our community feels the same way,” Frey said. Frey acknowledged that racial discrimination by Minneapolis police is not new to the Black community. “They’ve been saying this for years, for decades and for generations, they’ve been talking about the misconduct that was identified,” Frey said Some community members expressed doubt over the sincerity of Frey’s reaction to the report. “I’m still trippin that the mayor referred to the MDHR report as ‘horrific’ as if this is the first time he has heard of any of this info,” local activist D.A. Bullock said in a tweet. “He is still playing for the ignorant seats, still betting on the willful ignorance or disinterest of the city.” Lucero said the MDHR will work with the City to develop a consent decree, a legally binding document that will require the City to address
“MPD officers reported that their colleagues called fellow Black MPD officers ‘nappy head’ and ‘cattle.’”
address the racial wealth gap through financial literacy education that would put people of color on the path to homeownership. He also wants to connect with the “unbanked”— people who do not have a bank account. Several customers opened
you’re a part of,” Western said. “They’re no better, no worse than any other bank. “It’s just the personal experience…that makes you feel comfortable depositing your money. It also guarantees a better experience from the standpoint that you don’t
“It guarantees a better experience from the standpoint that you don’t have to worry about any type of bias or prejudice.” new accounts at First Independence on the opening day, such as Todd Western. “It’ll be a positive experience from the standpoint that you feel a bit more comfort going to a bank owned by a people that
have to worry about any type of bias or prejudice,” Western added. Stephen Anderson and Mahad Alim, realtors from Coldwell Banker, came out to show their support and
had been an impactful player in helping restore businesses like his to an operational level. “I had some interaction with them. Truthfully, as a small business owner you spend most of your time just trying to survive,” he said. “That’s where groups like the Lake Street Council come in, because they could be a lightning rod for all the energy that wanted to pour into the area.” Allison Sharkey Courtesy of Lake St. Council Next phase: sustainability and organization to have a location, ownership The LSC is still accepting appli- support for operating costs is cations for both funds on a roll- still down. Her organization was ing basis but is shifting its focus unable to bring on dozens of towards finding ways to help youth this spring for the seasonal entrepreneurs become landown- jobs that MIGIZI provides American Indian Youth. She stated that ers as a way of building wealth. “One of the primary values she’d like to see the state’s founthat need to come out of the dations go further beyond the rebuild is a wealth-building initial areas of support and get opportunity, because just for so businesses what they need. “The lack of foundation suplong the majority of small businesses that we work with have port has been pretty prevalent,” been hanging by the skin of their she said. “I think they’ve invested a lot in process and converteeth,” Sharkey said. Although Drummer has sation but the actual need of gained funding support for her businesses and organizations
here. We have been working on this for a while.” Battle further explained, “We are in that moment now around the climate crisis [where] religious institutions, government and people are what we need in order to address this crisis. It is not going to be won by a simple piece of policy. “It’s not going to be won by protests in the streets alone. It’s only going to be won when regular people like you and me stand up and start fighting, not just for the trees and the birds and the soil of this planet, but for the people who exist in that broader ecosystem.” She continued, “The biggest thing we suffer from especially in this country is comfort and privilege. We live in such comfort and such privilege that we do not have to turn our eyes to see what is happening to the rest of the world. We do not have to think about all of the communities that are suffering so we can be comfortable. “We have to tell the truth that it is American consumption that is driving
a global imbalance. One American consumes as much energy as 13 people in China, as much energy as 127 people in Bangladesh, as much as 307 people in Tanzania. “We are 5% of the population and we’re taking almost 30% of its resources,” Battle said. She reminded the audience, “Our consumption and our privilege and our oppressive tactics globally” have adversely affected communities of color
issues found in the report. The judge that issues the consent decree would enforce it and would be given regular updates on each party’s progress by an independent oversight agent. Lucero adds the City does not need to change collective bargaining agreements to implement culture and policy changes at the MPD. “This process does not start and it does not end with these findings,” Lucero said. “The City has made and continues to make efforts to address these concerns, and as we know throughout the determination the City can make immediate changes that are fully within control of the City and MPD and do not require modifications to any collective bargaining agreement or state law.” Citizens can submit comments on what they would like to see in a consent decree by calling the MDHR at 651-539-1100 or through their online contact form at mn.gov/mdhr/mpd/contactus. Cole Miska welcomes reader response to cmiska@ spokesnan-recorder.com. Henry Pan contributed to this story. Connect with Pan at hpan@spokesna-recorder.com.
explore networking and business opportunities. Anderson, who is a director on Coldwell’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council, said he hopes to have someone from First Independence speak at one of their council meetings He is excited to develop further relationships at the bank. “I hope to be able to branch out to other networks and get in touch with our community,” Anderson said. Alim was excited to have a Black-owned bank in the area, saying he believed he would be better able to serve his clients who were people of color. “I’m going to open a bank account here just for the hell of it because I’m going to support [the bank],” Alim said. “I’m going to put my money where my mouth is.” Alim also said he was hope-
Chris Montana Courtesy of Du Ford Spirits
ful that First Independence would offer services that fit within the lending rules of Islam for his Muslim clients. Jenkins said exploring options for Islamic lending services was a “priority.” “We’re hoping to be a leader amongst the banks in figuring out how do we get [lending services] into the hands of the Islamic community,” Jenkins said. The Minneapolis location is the first branch First Independence has opened outside of Detroit. A second Minneapolis location is set to open on Lake and Hiawatha in late June. First Independence Bank is located at 3430 University Ave. S.E., Minneapolis, MN. Cole Miska welcomes reader responses to cmiska@ spokesman-recorder.com. around how Lake Street properties can become more affordable for community members to own. Projects like Seward Redesign’s Colosseum restoration on 27th and Lake and the utilization of the large parking lot spaces along the corridor for affordable housing units are just some ways ownership is factoring into plans. While hopeful of the change to come, Montana wants community members on Lake Street and throughout the entire Twin Cities to know that this is a continuing conversation that can’t end with Lake Street. “Let’s not get into this space where we think if we solve Lake Street that we solve disparities, we solve the wealth gap. I’d love for that to be true, but that’s not the case,” he said. “A couple hundred businesses are critical for a cultural district, but they are not the Twin Cities.”
has not been there.” Corporations have also played a role in the rebuilding efforts along Lake Street. Some even reached out to provide support for the redevelopment process, but smaller firms owned by people of color stepped up in their place. “Local architects collectively said, ‘That’s nice,’ but this is also a really great opportunity for architects of color to do good work on these groundbreaking projects,” Sharkey noted. Mixed Abdi Mohamed welcomes reader residential and housing proper- responses to amohamed@ ties have come up in discussions spokesman-recorder.com.
we must have folks representing us who understand accountability,” she said. “Power is being used in a way right now that I think is really hurting us. We must talk about power in the fact that real power rests in the community. Real power is in our hands. Our plan to challenge power requires all of us to vote, requires all of us to get other people out to vote. “We must all join this fight because
“I want Black folks to know that climate is about Black lives.” both nationally and worldwide.” “These are the front lines of the climate crisis. These are often people who have contributed the least to the problem that are experiencing right now the worst impacts, and we haven’t even hit what we know we will hit in just a few years to come,” she said. Among her suggestions for change was that citizenry must take back and exert its power, using the ballot box as a first step. “We must be accountable, and
5
this is not a fight for voting rights. This is a fight for the vision of a democracy that we have not yet reached. This is about changing our society,” Battle said as she received a rousing standing ovation from the Westminster audience. “We can make solutions for a better and more sustainable future. This is not about shifting from gas to renewables… This climate crisis is part of a broader system that connects to criminal justice, connects to education, and connects to
health care.” As we wrapped up our MSR interview, Battle reiterated the importance of Black people realizing that the climate crisis, now in a pandemic world, is not a White people’s problem. “I want Black folks to know that climate is about Black lives,” she said. “That the people who were lost in Katrina was us. That the biggest thing that we have to fear is what is coming to our inner cities—not just police, but heat and how that is going to harm so many of us who live in public housing or concrete jungles. “I hope that folks will take the time to learn about how climate intersects with justice, how climate justice intersects with racial justice, and how we all need to actually be a part of the solution.” Colette Pichon Battle’s speech can be viewed at www.westminsterforum.org. Charles Hallman welcomes reader responses to challman@spokesmanrecord
6 May 5 - 11, 2022
Arts & Culture Cashing in on Black style
Ralph Lauren partners with HBCUs on ‘woke’ collegiate fashion By Timeka N. Tounsel Prompted by George Floyd’s murder on May 25, 2020, major retail companies touted their commitment to racial justice. Some publicly supported the Black Lives Matter Movement. The Vermont-based ice cream manufacturer Ben & Jerry’s went further and issued a list of actions aimed at “dismantl[ing] White supremacy in all its forms.” Popular clothing company Ralph Lauren launched its own initiatives in 2020 and most recently in March 2022 when it announced a partnership with two historically Black colleges to design a commemorative clothing line. The Polo Ralph Lauren Exclu-
American style and of the Amer- ren’s new line of clothing reveals, wearing the latest fashion trend ican dream.” comes at a premium to often overlooked communities. Prices Selling Black style For a company that prides it- for the Morehouse collection self on what it calls a “distinctive start at $69.50 for a maroon ball American perspective,” Ralph cap and soar to $2,498.00 for a Lauren’s image is still limited in wool coat. The least expensive this new collection to the most item in the Spelman collection is respectable and easily mone- a $98 silk scarf, with a $998 wool tized Black people that animate coat in the college’s signature sky blue landing at the high end. the Black American story. A purported $1 trillion in In my forthcoming book “Branding Black Womanhood: Black buying power—a number Media Citizenship from Black contested by some scholars—is Power to Black Girl Magic,” I ex- likely part of what draws Ralph plore the history of this practice of Lauren to this project on Black wooing Black consumers through history. Yet a racial wealth commercial campaigns that use gap where the average Black family claims just under $13% social movement rhetoric. Then as now, my research of the wealth that the average has shown how America’s White family holds, reported as household brands have appro- $188,200 in 2019, suggests that the value of such celebratory campaigns is limited.
Racial reckoning Shortly after the George Floyd murder, Ralph Lauren joined the rush of corporations releasing public statements with an open letter on racial equality on June 10, 2020. The letter described systemic racism as “an American problem” and “a fashion problem” and summarized Two men are seen in this screenshot of Ralph Lauren’s homepage the company’s strategy for addressing its own failures. for its new Morehouse and Spelman fashions. In addition to expanding sively for Morehouse and Spel- priated affirming images and already established initiatives, man Colleges Collection is the slogans and transformed them such as dialogue groups, interbrainchild of two company staff- into advertisements designed to nal diversity training, and supers, Morehouse alum James Jeter attract middle-class Black shop- port for the United Negro Coland Spelman alum Dara Douglas. pers. Companies that packaged lege Fund, Ralph Lauren also In the words of company such products believed that promised to “interview at least founder Ralph Lauren, the part- they could secure a new, loyal one Black or African American nership with Morehouse and Black customer base simply by candidate” for vacant senior Spelman offers “a more com- representing them glamorously. leadership positions. Since then, Ralph Lauren As the costs of Ralph Lauplete and authentic portrait of
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Screenshot of Ralph Lauren’s homepage for its new Morehouse and Spelman fashions Photos courtesy of Ralph Lauren has unveiled its Morehouse and Spelman collection and explained that it has an even broader list of commitments. Among them is a $2 million pledge to the United Negro College Fund and “dedicated internship offers for HBCU students.” In addition, Ralph Lauren produced a documentary film, “A Portrait of the American Dream,” commemorating each institution’s legacy and the Ivy-esque style that students made their own from the 1920s through the 1950s. The documentary is transparent about the brand’s intention to correct its limited framing of American style by “writing untold chapters” into the story of classic collegiate fashion. Hip hop style Ralph Lauren’s belated recognition trails a long history in which Black communities have imbued American culture with a distinct aesthetic, especially in the realm of clothing. In fact, the
move by Ralph Lauren to spotlight Black style before 1960 overlooks a more recent and direct connection between Ralph Lauren and members of the hiphop generation.
The idea of Black excellence is nothing new. Nor is commercializing Black pride. A group of young African American and Latino New Yorkers glorified the brand in the 1980s, attaching it to what was then an emergent urban subculture. The group called themselves the Lo Lifes, a riff off the Polo name and a sarcastic admission that despite their affinity for the clothing, they were excluded from the brand’s White, upper crust, target customer. Although Ralph Lauren initially resisted this less affluent fan base, the mostly one-sided love affair between hip hop and Polo persists.
Still waking The idea of Black excellence is nothing new. Nor is commercializing Black pride. Even retailers such as Walmart are trying to cash in on Juneteenth, the holiday commemorating June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers reached Galveston, Texas and compelled slaveholders to free the enslaved. But questions remain on whether a new line of clothing can lead to a greater understanding of the spirit of Black excellence that fueled the Black students at Morehouse and Spelman during the Civil Rights era. One thing is clear: Ralph Lauren has at least increased the visibility of Black life and culture during this era of racial reckoning. Timeka N. Tounsel is an assistant professor of African American Studies and Media Studies at Penn State. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license.
May 5 - 11, 2022
Opinion
7
The fighting spirit that unites us By Ben Jealous
Black-White prostate cancer gap shows staggering disparities By Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. As the United States continues to grapple with its legacy of systemic racism, debates on issues such as police brutality and racial profiling, the economic gulf between Blacks and Whites, and the dearth of access to affordable educational opportunities, there is one area that has received far less attention: The gap in positive health outcomes that African Americans—and particularly Black men—face. While the COVID-19 pandemic shined a light on these fissures, its beam barely touched the edges of the problem. Yet according to government data, Black Americans are generally at higher risk for heart diseases, stroke, cancer, asthma, influenza and pneumonia, diabetes and HIV/AIDS than their White counterparts. Black people also have the highest death rate and shortest survival of any racial/ethnic group in the United States for most cancers. These are abhorrent figures anyway you look at them, but especially when considering that many of these deadly diseases—at least when detected early—are treatable and survivable. Prostate cancer, for example, has a 99% five-year survival rate for men if the cancer is detected during the early stage. Yet, Black men have a 70% higher rate of developing prostate cancer than White men, and research from the American Cancer Society found that Black men are more than twice as likely to die from prostate cancer than their White counterparts. One of the key reasons for these staggering dispari-
ties is the fact that Black men are overall less aware of the threat this form of cancer poses to them and have fewer resources available to them to receive testing and monitoring for the disease. Thankfully there are members of the Black community like billionaire investor Robert F. Smith, “The Today Show” Co-host Al Roker, and activist comedians such as Chris Tucker and Steve Harvey who are raising their voices—and contributing their dollars—to combat this affliction.
“For too long, prostate cancer among Black men has remained relatively low profile.” Robert Smith, for example, recently donated $4 million of his own money to New York City’s Mount Sinai Medical Center to create the Robert F. Smith Mobile Prostate Cancer Screening Unit. This mobile home-sized bus will tour New York City neighborhoods where men are at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer and offer screenings and educational materials about the disease. This proactive approach that brings diagnosis tools directly to the communities most at risk is the type of action that our nation needs when it comes to battling a disease that more than 13 percent of African American men are expected to develop in their lifetime. But Smith can’t be the only one doing this and New York City cannot be the only place where this
far right-wing politicians who said Virginia could not afford I was trained to fight by my the universal free public edugrandmother, Mamie Bland cation that had been created Todd. She would often remind during Reconstruction. Publicly, these wealthy me, “Pessimists are right more often, but optimists win more of- conservatives said the state ten. In this life you have to decide could not afford both free public education and paying what’s more important to you.” Then she would add, “As for off Civil War debt. Privately, they feared free universal me, I’ll take winning.” My favorite optimist died public education would render both poor Whites and recently at 105. For our family, she was the poor Blacks ungovernable. last living link to our story of What united those origin in antebellum southern men was their comVirginia. Three of her grandparmitment to providing ents were Black and born into slavery. The fourth was White a better future for and helped run a plantation. their children. She and my grandfather Bland and Mahone’s multimade the great migration north to the Up South that racial movement also attacked is Baltimore. Their love story voter suppression, outlawing was the bridge to our family’s the poll tax and several other measures meant to make it life in modern America. She carried lessons from harder for Blacks and lowthe old world with her. She income Whites to vote. When learned to fight from her pa- they took control of the state ternal grandfather, Edward legislature, they made Mahone David Bland. He was born into a U.S. senator. Without forgetslavery in his White uncle’s ting the sins of the past, the men house. He would defeat one of they led each chose to invest in his White cousins to become newfound unity rather than reone of the last Black Recon- new old hurts and divisions. What united those men struction statesmen in Virginia. He was also the Black leader was their commitment to of a multiracial populist move- providing a better future for ment made up of former slaves their children. They recogand former Confederate sol- nized that what the children diers. His White counterpart of working families—Black was former Confederate Gen- and White—needed more eral William Mahone. Theirs than anything was access to a was a coalition of working free high-quality education. In men, Black and White. Most of short, they needed what the them were farmers with rough children of plantation owners took for granted. hands and dirty fingernails. My grandmother was born Together they built a movement in the early 1880s that in 1916. She was a third-gencreated Virginia State Univer- eration NAACP member who sity, expanded Virginia Tech, rebelled against Jim Crow and secured the future of free without hesitation. As a young public education for every teacher, she confronted the child in the commonwealth. White man who was the local Their common enemy was the superintendent of schools.
She convinced him that just like White teachers, Black teachers could not teach without adequate supplies. He rectified the problem at her segregated allBlack school the next day. Two decades later, she would support my mom when at age 12 she signed on as a named plaintiff in one of the feeder cases to Brown v. Board of Education. When my mom desegregated her local high school at 15, my grandmother was with her every step of the way. Ultimately, however, my grandmother, like her grandfather, could not escape the moral imperative that children of every color who are struggling need the same protections and supports. She would go on to found Child Protective Services for the city of Baltimore and lead Maryland’s effort to replicate the program statewide. Like Bland, she built an army of warriors for social change. In her case, it was an army of social workers, who were mostly women. Among them was a young White woman and future U.S. senator named Barbara Mikulski. Four years ago, when I was the Democratic nominee for governor of Maryland, I bumped into Sen. Mikulski at a women’s political event. She looked at me and said, “You’re Mamie Todd’s grandson.” I said, “I am,” and I watched a tear roll down her face. As I close this week’s column, tears are running down mine.
type of outreach is occurring. Whether it is other philanthropists, local or regional health centers, or state and federal officials, there is a desperate need for creative solutions to getting more people screened and saving more lives. Smith’s initiative is an innovative approach, but there are other ways to spread awareness and boost screenings in the Black community. Whether it be through an advertising and outreach campaign to pop-up health centers and tents, the COVID-19 vaccine push in the Black and other minority communities can serve as a good example of how to quickly and efficiently get more Black men Ben Jealous is president of screened for the disease. People For the American Way For too long, prostate canand professor of the Practice cer among Black men—and the at the University of Pennsylvadisparity in health outcomes nia. His book, “Never Forget Our within the community overall— People Were Always Free” will has remained relatively low be released by Harper Collins profile, but now we have a way next January. It is largely based to resolve this issue. on the life of his grandmother. The pioneering Black journalist and one of the effective voices and leaders of LETTER TO THE EDITOR the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), Ida B. Wells said it best: “The way to right wrongs is to turn the light of truth on them.” It is long overdue to turn a brighter national sia is now doing its own version The freedom to butcher in- we didn’t do “war” crimes. light on prostate cancer and nocents in a fake “war” started In 2003, President Bush of “shock and awe” upon UkraiBlack America. by a superpower has officially explained the logic of “shock nians, over government and our been passed from America to and awe.” He said the U.S. was media are accusing Russia of Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr Russia—and Americans are going “to hit the Iraqis so hard doing “war” crimes. is president and CEO of the outraged! The stupidity and racism of with our military firepowNational Newspaper PublishAmerica is playing this con- er, that the Iraqis would be this are so blatantly obvious ers Association and executive venient game that no “war” is a shocked and awed and would that I am at a loss as to how producer/host of “The Chavis crime unless “war” crimes are not even try to fight back.” the White powers that be get Chronicles” on PBS TV sta- committed. This is done to proThis was viewed as an ac- away with it. tions throughout the United tect U.S. criminal “wars” in the ceptable tactical bombing camStates who can be reached at Middle East. We’re supposedly paign (probably because it was Frank Erickson is a resident dr.bchavis@nnpa.org. different than Russia because upon Muslims), but when Rus- of Minneapolis.
Is Russia’s ‘shock and awe’ so different from America’s?
Cosmetic hair care should not require a cosmetology license By Martha Njolomole
submissions@spokesman-recorder.com
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submissions@spokesman-recorder.com.
in Minnesota was $17,398. So to say the least, this rule places Did you know that Min- a huge burden on would-be nesota requires anyone trying hair stylists to spend thousands to work on cosmetic hair care of hours and thousands of dolto get a cosmetology license, lars learning about nails, skinwhich requires 1,550 hours care, facials, and makeup—skills of instruction and training in that they are not interested in “shampooing, scalp and hair con- and will likely not use. ditioning, hair design and shap“A lower licensing ing, chemical hair control, hair burden would make it coloring, hair styling, skin care easier for more lowand facials, makeup, waxing, income Minnesotans and manicuring and nail care?” You may be wondering to enter the industry.” what manicuring, facials, waxTo make matters worse, the ing, and nail care have to do with hair care, and the answer cosmetology industry tends is nothing. This does not stop to be made up mainly of lowthe board of cosmetology income individuals who do not from requiring this extra edu- have thousands of dollars to spend on getting a cosmetology cation, however. But getting a cosmetology li- license. It is no wonder most of cense is not cheap. According to them resort to taking on debt to the Institute of Justice, in 2019 pay for cosmetology school. In 2019, for example, two the total cost of completing a cosmetology training program out of every three cosmetology
license holders in Minnesota had federal student loans. The board of cosmetology would argue that this complexity is for the sake of health and safety. But other workers involved in the cosmetology industry like estheticians and nail technicians are allowed fewer training requirements that focus on their specific interest. Yet this has not, in any way, caused the sky to come crashing down. Legislators need to pass bill HF 3155, which would create a hair technician license. This bill would reduce the amount of training required for people that are only interested in cosmetic hair care, saving them time and money—savings which could be passed on to consumers. Moreover, a lower licensing burden would make it easier for more low-income Minnesotans, who are usually deterred by the high cost of li-
censing, to enter the industry. Let’s be honest: Requiring would-be hairstylists to take a 1,550-hour training course in cosmetology—some of which has nothing to do with hair— has little to do with quality, health or safety. But on the flip side, this requirement raises costs, and it keeps many low-income Minnesotans out of the industry or in debt. Generally, cosmetology is a low-risk industry that could be served by less burdensome regulations like registration, certification or inspection. There is a lot of room for significant changes that could make the rules less burdensome for Minnesotans. Passing Bill HF 3155 would be a good start towards that reform. Martha Njolomole is an economist at the Center of the American Experiment.
8 May 5 - 11, 2022
NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THE RIGHT TO VERIFICATION OF THE DEBT AND IDENTITY OF THE ORIGINAL CREDITOR WITHIN THE TIME PROVIDED BY LAW IS NOT AFFECTED BY THIS ACTION.
Wanted:
Info on family caregivers’ experience Participants receive $100 gift card Family caregivers often serve as financial advocates for older adults with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and AD-related dementias, helping to plan ways to cover the cost of long-term care services. Given the high cost and duration of long-term care, many older adults will eventually need Medicaid to help cover expenses. Medicaid planning is extremely complex, and most caregivers don’t have prior knowledge of the application process or the general eligibility criteria. This can result in delays in accessing necessary care, financial losses for professional care providers, and the caregiver tapping into their own savings to pay for services. Family caregivers need comprehensive education around financial caregiving and personalized resources that help them plan for eligibility for public benefits. A team of local tech professionals and researchers at the University of Minnesota, funded by the National Institute on Aging, are developing a website that aims to guide caregivers of individuals with dementia through the process of financing long term care. It is our goal to ensure that this website is culturally sensitive and responds to the unique needs of caregivers who identify as Black/African American, Latino/Hispanic, American Indian, and Asian/Asian Pacific Islander. We believe this website will: • Help family members learn what assistance their family member is eligible to receive • Decrease stress and the feeling of information overload • Improve knowledge of long-term care costs and public payment options • Decrease the Medicaid application processing time
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that default has occurred in the conditions of the following described mortgage: DATE OF MORTGAGE March 26, 2010, modified April 24, 2015 ORIGINAL PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF MORTGAGE: $49,000.00 MORTGAGOR(S): Jeffrey C. Bjerksett and Sheryl E. Bjerksett MORTGAGEE: Northeast Bank DATE AND PLACE OF REGISTRATION: Registered with the Registrar of Titles in and for the County of Hennepin, State of Minnesota, on April 9, 2010, as Document No. 4744632, modification recorded May 5, 2015, as Document No. 5253771 ASSIGNMENTS OF MORTGAGE: Assigned to Alabama 2, LLC in Assignment of Mortgage dated January 20, 2022, recorded February 2, 2022, as Document No. 5919605 LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY: Lots 1, 2 and 3, Block 17, “Seton” (REGISTERED PROPERTY) PROPERTY ADDRESS: 2605 Tyrone Lane, Mound, MN 55364 COUNTY IN WHICH PROPERTY IS LOCATED: Hennepin AMOUNT DUE AND CLAIMED TO BE DUE AS OF DATE OF NOTICE, INCLUDING TAXES, IF ANY, PAID BY MORTGAGEE: $55,395.04 THAT there has been compliance with all pre-foreclosure requirements; that no action or proceeding has been instituted at law or otherwise to recover the debt secured by said mortgage, or any part thereof;
Photo by Kampus Production on Pexels.com • Increase the likelihood of Medicaid applications being approved • Reduce strain on county workers • Help prepare caregivers for the journey ahead This virtual resource will be free for all users once it is completed. It will complement in-person and telephone-based caregiver services provided by senior services organizations in Minnesota. Researchers at the University of Minnesota can offer live or virtual demos on the website to organization staff and/or clients. We will welcome feedback to ensure that the website offers personalized and meaningful advice to help guide long-term care choices.
through the website and will answer questions about their experience. Participants will receive a $100 gift card for participating in a 90-min interview or user experience testing session over Zoom or in person. We will ask caregivers questions about their experiences: • Searching for longterm care • Learning about what their family member is eligible to receive • Applying for Medical Assistance or Elderly Waiver (if applicable)
To be eligible for the study, participants must: • Provide care for an adult with dementia • Identify as Black/African American, American Indian, Hispanic/Latino, What we are looking for: We’re currently looking and/or Asian/Asian Pacific to interview diverse family Islander •Be fluent in English caregivers to understand • Be able to use webthe challenges they face when planning for the sites and have access to costs of long-term care and Zoom on a computer ways we can help them Caregivers who are interprepare and enroll in public programs their family ested in participating should fill out this brief survey to be member is eligible for. When the website pro- contacted by a member of totype is ready in early the research team: https:// spring 2022, we will be bit.ly/UMcaregiverstudy Or looking for caregivers to they can contact Dr. Departicipate in user testing Liema directly: mdeliema@ where they will be guided umn.edu or 612-625-8798.
THAT pursuant to the power of sale contained in said mortgage, the above-described property will be sold by the Sheriff of Hennepin County as follows: DATE AND TIME OF SALE: June 6, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. PLACE OF SALE: Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, Room 30, 350 South Fifth Street, Minneapolis, Minnesota, to pay the debt secured by said mortgage and taxes, if any, on said premises and the costs and disbursements, including attorneys’ fees allowed by law subject to redemption within six (6) months from the date of said sale by the mortgagor(s), their personal representatives or assigns. The date on or before which the mortgagor must vacate the property if the mortgage is not reinstated under section 580.30 or the property redeemed under section 580.23: December 6, 2022, at 11:59 p.m. THE TIME ALLOWED BY LAW FOR REDEMPTION BY THE MORTGAGOR, THE MORTGAGOR’S PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OR ASSIGNS, MAY BE REDUCED TO FIVE WEEKS IF A JUDICIAL ORDER IS ENTERED UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, SECTION 582.032, DETERMINING, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THAT THE MORTGAGED PREMISES ARE IMPROVED WITH A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING OF LESS THAN FIVE UNITS, ARE NOT PROPERTY USED IN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION, AND ARE ABANDONED. Dated: April 11, 2022 Alabama 2, LLC Assignee of Mortgagee HOELSCHER LAW FIRM, PLLC By: /s/ Brian G. Hoelscher (#238752) Attorneys for Assignee of Mortgagee 13100 Wayzata Blvd., Suite 100 Minnetonka, MN 55305 Phone: 952-224-9551 Email: brian@hoelscher-law.com FORECLOSURE DATA Minn. Stat. Sec. 580.025 (1) the physical street address, city, and zip code of the mortgaged premises is 2605 Tyrone Lane, Mound, MN 55364; (2) the name of the transaction agent, residential mortgage servicer, and the lender or broker, as defined in section 58.02, if the person holding the mortgage is a transaction agent as defined in section 58.02, subdivision 30 are as follows: – not applicable; or the name of the residential mortgage servicer and the lender or broker, as defined in section 58.02, if the person holding the mortgage is not a transaction agent as defined in section 58.02, subdivision 30 are as follows: residential mortgage servicer – Alabama 2, LLC, lender or broker – Alabama 2, LLC; (3) the tax parcel identification number of the mortgaged premises is: 19-117-23-23-0158; (4) if stated on the mortgage, the transaction agent’s mortgage identification number is: - not applicable; (5) if stated on the mortgage, the name of the residential mortgage originator as defined in section 58.02 is: Northeast Bank Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder April 21, 28, May 5, 12, 19, 26, 2022
Greater Friendship Missionary Baptist Church
Worship
MINNESOTA SPOKESMAN-RECORDER 3744 4th Ave. South • Minneapolis, MN 55409 Phone: 612-827-4021 • Fax: 612-827-0577
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CECIL E. NEWMAN
Mount Olivet Missionary Baptist Church
Bethesda Baptist Church
Rev. Dr. Billy G. Russell, Sr. Pastor
Rev. Arthur Agnew, Pastor
At the Old Landmark Rev. James C. Thomas, Pastor
451 West Central
St. Paul, MN 55103 651-227-4444
Church School 9:30 am Morning Worship 8:00 & 10:45 am Prayer Service:
Wednesday 7 pm "Welcome to
Mt. Olivet Baptist Church"
1118 So. 8th Street Mpls., MN 55404 612-332-5904
www.bethesdamnonline.com bethesdamn@prodigy.net Sunday Service Times: Early Morning Service 9 am Sunday School 10 am Sunday Worship 11:30 am Wednesday Prayer Meeting, 6 pm Adult Bible Class 7 pm
Children's Bible Class 7 pm
2600 E. 38th Street Minneapolis, MN 55408 www.greatfriend.org Phone: 612.827.7928 Fax: 612.827.3587 info@greatfriend.org Sundays 8:00am Sunday School 9:30am Worship Service The Friendly Church Where Everybody Is Somebody
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can’t give up.” Said Clarendon, “I’m exContinued from page 10 cited Client: Mortgage Foreclosure to learn more about the history of activism in Sale - Northeast Bank Size:women to3.4167 x 13.75 Minneapolis.” Black understand Run Date: and 4/21/22 - 5/26/22 “I’m just grateful to have the strength the power Adwe Options: additional a platform where we can that [have]. For Theanactivism $300.00 you can get bring together so many brilin the WNBA is not new.” online advertising as well. After the 90-minute pod- liant minds to talk about cast, Levy Armstrong, Claren- some real challenging topdon and Robinson shared their ics,” concluded Robinson. final thoughts with the MSR. “These are not easy conver“I think the final thought sations to have.” about all of this is that we Charles Hallman welcomes got to keep going,” said Levy Armstrong. “We got to reader responses to challman@ stand in solidarity and we spokesman-recorder.com.
Filed in District Court State of Minnesota May 2 2022
Contunued from page 10
of color,” included 10 recommendations. It recommends that schools and conferences “take greater responsibility… to help rectify racial disparities”; align diversity hiring to financial incentives; create a year-round, diversity program for more diverse senior-level candidates; hold an annual summit to connect entry-level and mid-level POC to key stakeholders; create a national mentorship program; and require implicit bias training for all athletic departments and sports leaders. The NIU AD added that Charles Hallman welcomes how schools conduct their diversity hiring processes reader responses to challman@ are not often reported. “I do spokesman-recorder.com.
Case Type: Personal Injury
County of Hennepin
District Court
9
Fourth Judicial District Court File Number: 27-CV-22-4239
District Court
Ramsey County
Second Judicial District
Cameron Looney,
Court File Number: 62-HR-CV-22-313
Plaintiff,
Case Type: Harassment
vs.
In the Matter of Caronda Hampton and
Notice of Issuance of
obo minor children vs Joseph Thomas Bell
Harassment Restraining Order by Publication
SUMMONS
Spence Edwards, IV, Defendant. THIS SUMMONS IS DIRECTED TO: DEFENDANT SPENCE EDWARDS, IV. 1. YOU ARE BEING SUED. The Plaintiff has started a lawsuit against you.
To Respondent:
The Plaintiffs Complaint against you is attached to this summons. Do not throw these papers
YOU ARE NOTIFIED that a Harassment Restraining Order has been filed on 4/1/2022.
away. They are official papers that affect your rights. You must respond to this lawsuit even
A hearing is scheduled for the following date, time, and location:
though it may not yet be filed with the Court and there may be no court file number on
Date:
May 26, 2022
Time:
8:15 AM
this summons. 2. YOU MUST REPLY WITHIN 20 DAYS TO PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS.
Ramsey County Juvenile and Family Justice Center 25 W. 7th Street Room B122
SOE
State of Minnesota
State of Minnesota
Location:
think that there should be some transparency and process about how you ended with this search and it was X,” noted Frazier. “There are a large number of qualified people that are just looking for access and opportunity,” he said. “The question is, how do we get there? One would argue that intentionality has to be played in this particular space. “I’d be glad to be a part of the solution as well as a part of a conversation. I know the bigger picture. The bigger play is to get more people who are underrepresented in these decision-making chairs,” concluded Frazier. “This is a great time and a critical time for change.”
May 5 - 11, 2022
You must give or mail to the person who signed this summons a written response called an Answer within 20 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:
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Swor & Gatto, P.A.
Failure to appear at a scheduled hearing or to get a copy of the Harassment Restraining Order
1177 West Seventh Street
will not be a defense to prosecution for violation of the Court’s order.
Saint Paul, MN 55102 3. YOU MUST RESPOND TO EACH CLAIM. The Answer is your written response
Donald W. Harper
to the Plaintiff’s Complaint. In your Answer you must state whether you agree or disagree
Juvenile and Family Court Administrator
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.
Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder May 5, 2022
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
Filed in District Court State of Minnesota Apr 27 2022 State of Minnesota
District Court
Ramsey County
Second Judicial District Court File Number: 62-DA-FA-22-345 Case Type: Domestic Abuse
In The Matter Of Sherri Lenae
Notice of Hearing by Publication
Williams And Obo Minor Children
(Minn. Stat. § 518B.01, subd. 8)
Vs Ronnie Bilia Shaka
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 the Complaint even if you
To Respondent named above:
Case:
Hampton vs Bell 62‐HR‐CV‐22‐313 An order has been issued directing you to appear at the Ramsey County Juvenile and Family Size: 4.75 Justice Center, 25 W 3.4167 7th St, St. x Paul MN 55102 on May 23, 2022 at 8:15am and explain why Ad Run: 5/5/22 the relief sought in the Petition for the Order for Protection should not be granted. You may Ad Options: --
expect to use alternative means of resolving this dispute. I hereby acknowledge that sanctions may be awarded pursuant to Minn. Stat. §549.211. SWOR & GATTO, P.A. By: /s/Paul J. Gatto Paul J. Gatto (#33741) ATTORNEYS FOR PLAINTIFF 1177 West Seventh Street Saint Paul, Minnesota 55102 651-454-3600
Dated: March 11, 2022
obtain a copy of the Petition and any order issued from the court from the Ramsey County Court Administrator’s Office. If you do not appear at the scheduled hearing, the Petitioner’s request may be granted as a default matter. Failure to appear will not be a defense to prosecution for violation of the Court’s Order.
Stringer
Contunued from page 10 in women’s basketball having you for my Head Coach on and off the court,” said Dr. Freda Doxey, Cheyney Class of 1981. “She will always be respected in the eyes of the thousands of hearts she has touched, and no one can take that away from her. Well done Coach and congratulations,” said Ann Strong. “It was an honor and a blessing to be coached by Coach Stringer and Coach John Chaney. She has earned the right to be called one of the greatest women coaches!” said Aletha Blackman, Cheyney University (1976-80).
“Coach Stringer, you did as much as you could for as many as you could, for as long as you could. Thank you,” said Deb Walker, a member of Cheyney’s 1982 NCAA runners-up squad. “The best decision I made in my entire basketball career was deciding to play for Coach Stringer at Cheyney State College,” said Valerie Walker, a two-time All American, Class of 1982. “She is the epitome of greatness, a leader and a true friend.” Next week we’ll hear from a member of C. Vivian Stringer’s coaching tree. Charles Hallman welcomes reader responses to challman@ spokesman-recorder.com.
Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder April 21,28, May 5, 2022
Court Administrator Ramsey County District Court
Filed in District Court State of Minnesota Apr 28 2022
Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder May 5, 2022
Filed in District Court State of Minnesota Apr 26 2022 State of Minnesota
State of Minnesota
District Court
Ramsey County
Second Judicial District Court File Number: 62-DA-FA-22-388 Case Type: Domestic Abuse
District Court
Ramsey County
Second Judicial District
In The Matter Of Toni Marie Noll
Notice of Hearing by Publication
Court File Number: 62-DA-FA-22-323
Vs Gene Rydell Harvey
(Minn. Stat. § 518B.01, subd. 8)
Notice of Issuance of Emergency Anthony Elijah Moore
(Ex Parte) Order for Protection by Publication (Minn. Stat. § 518B.01, subd. 8)
In the Matter of Latoya Latrice Moore OBO Minor Child vs Anthony Elijah Moore To Respondent:
To Respondent named above: An order has been issued directing you to appear at the Ramsey County Juvenile and Family
Case: Looney vs Edwards IV, Case# 27-CV-22-4239 Justice Center, 25 W 7th St, St. Paul MN 55102 on May 25, 2022 at 8:15am, SEE NOTICE OF Size: 3.4167 x 8.75 HEARING and explain why the relief sought in the Petition for the Order for Protection should Ad Run: 4/21/22 - 5/5/22 not be granted. Ad Options: -You may obtain a copy of the Petition and any order issued from the court from the Ramsey
YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an Ex Parte Order for Protection has been issued in this case. You
County Court Administrator’s Office.
may request a hearing if you contact the court administrator’s office within 12 days of the date
If you do not appear at the scheduled hearing, the Petitioner’s request may be granted as a default
of publication of this notice. You may obtain a copy of the Ex Parte Order for Protection and the
matter. Failure to appear will not be a defense to prosecution for violation of the Court’s Order.
form to request a hearing from the court administrator’s office at the following address:
Court Administrator
Case:
Williams v Shaka Ramsey County District Court 62‐DA-FA-22-345 25 West Seventh Size: 3.4167 x Street 4 Paul, MN 55102 Ad Run: Saint 5/5/22 Ad Options: -- or to obtain a copy of the Ex Parte Order will not be a defense to Failure to request a hearing
Ramsey County District Court
Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder May 5, 2022
Filed in District Court State of Minnesota Apr 29 2022
prosecution for violation of the Court’s order.
Prep
Contunued from page 10 enth grade and had just moved to St. Paul, so I didn’t really know that many people in the neighborhood and didn’t have much interest in girls’ basketball at this stage in my life. As I watched the game— Create was playing against Bloomington Jefferson— there were four names I kept hearing: Rita Burch, who scored a game-high 17 points and went on to start at Marquette University; Jean Tierney, a junior guard and future Miss Basketball who added 10; Dana Watts, a junior guard who also chipped in 10; and Lissimore, a point guard who also added 10. Lissimore’s name stuck with me that day because broadcasters kept talking about the 23 points she dropped in leading Central to a 65-43 quarterfinal victory over Mankato East. This game, however, I was saddened as Lissimore missed
the final shot. losing 54-53 to Jefferson. It didn’t matter that Central lost. I was hooked. The next day I was determined to watch the third-place game, which Central won by beating Hill Murray 54-48 behind Tierney’s 22-point performance along with Burch (14) and Lissimore 10). From then on, I was a St. Paul Central fan and Lisa Lissimore fan as well. She would be my counselor at a neighborhood basketball clinic when I was an eighth grader, and I would get to see her play college ball for the University of Minnesota and Grand View College. Even better, I got to see her play for the SummittUniversity Stars, a women’s AAU team coached by my father, Kwame McDonald, and Steve Winfield, after she graduated from college in 1982. “What a role model,” I thought at the time. Last week Lissimore got inducted into the Minnesota State High School Hall of
Dated: April 26, 2022
Donald W. Harper Court Administrator
Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder May 5, 2022
State of Minnesota
District Court
Ramsey County
Second Judicial District Court File Number: 62-DA-FA-22-359 Case Type: Domestic Abuse
Business Process Improvement Director Business Process Improvement Director, Medtronic, Inc., Mounds View, MN. Req. Bachelor’s or foreign equiv. in Ind. Engr., Operations Mgmt., Ind. Mgmt., Business, or closely rel. fld. & 7 yrs. exp. in process improvement, or Master’s or foreign equiv. in Ind. Engr., Operations Mgmt., Ind. Mgmt., Business, or closely rel. fld. and 5 yrs. exp. in process improvement. Must poss. at min. 5 yrs. exp. in each of the following: Strategic plan devel. & exec.; leading Lean & Six Sigma projects, programs & transformational activities; managing & training of engrs. & non-engrs. on Quality System Process, Continuous Improvement, Project Mgmt., Automation & reg. audit support; Robotics, User Interfaces & User Automated Aids; FDA QSR, ISO 13485, & ISO14971, Case: Moore or ISO/TS 16949 & ISO 9001; Risk mgmt., validation, & 62‐DA-FA-22-323 methodical problem Size: 3.4167solving; x 4.5 organization eval., due diligence & integration; and implementing global process improvement, Ad Run: 5/5/22 CAPA, & insourcing & outsourcing. Apply at https://jobs. Ad Options: -medtronic.com/, Req. #220007CW. No agencies or phone calls. Medtronic is an equal opportunity employer committed to cultural diversity in the workplace. All individuals are encouraged to apply.
Fame and is also retiring after 34 years with the organization as an associate director. I was honored to be at the induction. As for the day of school I missed way back when? I never missed another day of school. Something big happened that day, and I vowed to at-
tend school every day after that. I often think, however, about what I would have missed had I ended up in school that day. Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald welcomes reader responses to mcdeezy05@gmail.com.
In The Matter Of Nancy Njeri Ndege
Notice of Hearing by Publication
Vs Fodio Ndege Ongari
(Minn. Stat. § 518B.01, subd. 8)
To Respondent named above: An order has been issued directing you to appear at the Ramsey County Juvenile and Family Justice Center, 25 W 7th St, St. Paul MN 55102 on May 23, 2022 at 8:15am, and explain why the relief sought in the Petition for the Order for Protection should not be granted. You may obtain a copy of the Petition and any order issued from the court from the Ramsey County
Case:
Noll vs Harvey 62‐DA-FA-22-388 request may be granted as a default matter. Failure to appear will not be a defense to prosecution Size: 3.4167 x 4 for violation Order. Ad Run: of the Court’s 5/5/22 Ad Options: -Court Administrator Court Administrator’s Office. If you do not appear at the scheduled hearing, the Petitioner’s
Ramsey County District Court
Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder May 5, 2022
Way to Grow (WTG) is hiring! We have openings for the following positions: • Family Educator • Family Educator (fluency in Somali required) • Lead Preschool Teacher • Assistant Teacher • Community Relations Coordinator WTG offers a competitive total compensation package including: medical, dental, life/AD&D, short and long-term disability insurance, a 401(k) plan, 15 days of PTO, and 13 holidays. Visit waytogrow.org to learn how you can make a difference in the lives of our families and children! Send inquiries to Michele Jiosne at mjiosne@mplswaytogrow.org Case:
Ndege Vs Ongari
10 May 5 - 11, 2022
Sports Black women are local leaders in sports activism
of this community,” noted local activist Nekema Levy Armstrong. “They wanted to shine a spotlight on the fact that he Minnesota Lynx is by they are players on the court, a large margin the best but when they are off court, professional team in they are still Black women. town. It’s not just the league- [They] highlighted the issues high four titles won, the most that we experienced here as of any Twin Cities team—only Black folks in Minneapolis.” the Gophers women’s college “I think the W does hockey team have won more in this century (7). It’s also have a critical about the team’s leadership in lens on what it athletic advocacy since 2016, looks like to walk about four years before the through the world racial reckoning of 2020. “They had a press conferas a Black woman.” ence” on the recent shootings “It was a player-driven acof Blacks by police, recalled ESPN’s LaChina Robinson. “But tion,” stressed ESPN Writer the response to that I think was Katie Barnes. “It wasn’t just the most eye-opening aspect the Minnesota Lynx—it was of it” when several city police also the New York Liberty. officers scheduled to work the There were photos of teams standing with one another. game walked off the job. “The Lynx step forward as And that kind of demonstraadvocates for justice on behalf tion was something that had
never been seen before in professional sports. That set the stage for 2020.” Layshia Clarendon, now a second-year guard with the Lynx, vividly remembers, “I was actually playing for the [Atlanta] Dream at the time. It was [the team] president who came to us and said, ‘I don’t think you should do this.’ This was supposed to be all 12 teams doing a protest, but in 2016 it ended up being fractured.” Clarendon, Levy Armstrong, Barnes and ESPN Commentator Angela Rye were part of Robinson’s ESPN’s Around the Rim podcast along with co-host Terrika Foster-Brasby that was broadcast live from the Minneapolis Convention Center during the Women’s Final Four weekend events. “I think the W does have a critical lens on what it looks like to walk through the world as a Black woman, Black people be-
(l-r) Katie Barnes, Nekima Levy Armstrong, Layshia Clarendon, Terika B., LaChina Robinson Photo by Charles Hallman ing shot and murdered in the streets,” said the Lynx guard. The WNBA’s social justice campaign of 2020 was essentially a continuation of what was started several years earlier. “These women are going
into a bubble to play basketball but [also] to amplify what was happening in our world around police violence,” said Robinson. This included all 12 teams taking “a day of reflection” by not playing any scheduled games after
Jacob Blake’s shooting in August 2020, shutting down the league for one day. “So, risking it all is an understatement.” Said Rye, “It’s also important as we talk about the power of
■ See View on page 9
New coalition seeks greater diversity in sports leadership
Sean Frazier
Photo courtesy NIU
ollege sports is going through a time of unprecedented changes. A new constitution was ratified earlier this year that could serve as the beginning of restricting the NCAA. Its president, Mark Emmert, last week unexpectedly announced his retirement. Emmert’s news came on the heels of a new coalition of three organizations formed to increase dialogue on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) issues in NCAA college sports. The LEAD1 Association (LEAD1), the Minority Opportunities Athletic Association (MOAA), and the Black AD Alliance make up the new but unnamed coalition. LEAD1 represents the athletics directors of the 130 FBS
(Football Bowl Subdivision) schools. MOAA was formed over two decades ago to push for more diversity in college athletic administration. The Black AD Alliance was started in 2020 to advocate for the welfare of Black players and create more opportunities for Division I Black athletic administrators. “The coalition itself is made up with thought leaders that have been doing this work for many years,” Northern Illinois VP/AD Sean Frazier said in an MSR phone interview last week. “This is a time for us to come together and be very strategic and transparent and intentional about moving the agenda.” “We have a significant number of ethnic racial minorities
and women that participate in our very high-visibility sports of football, men’s and women’s basketball,” said Frazier. “But if you look at the numbers, we still are struggling with representation at the leadership level.”
“I like to believe that I know a little something.” Frazier is among the nearly 60 Black Division I athletic directors. The 2021 Complete Sport Racial and Gender Report Card released in April shows 12.2% of all DI athletic directors are Black. Hired by NIU in 2013 after six years in senior lead-
ership roles at University of Wisconsin, including deputy AD (2011-13), Frazier has 25 years of overall experience as a director of athletics at all three NCAA division levels. “I like to believe that I know a little something,” he joked, “but I’ve had some success. But again, I don’t want to be a footnote. I would hope that there’s going to be others that have an opportunity.” Frazier co-chaired LEAD1’s DEI Working Group that in January produced a white paper that called for more intentionality on DEI issues in college sports. The paper, “an actionable plan for FBS college sports to help create more opportunities for people
■ See SOE on page 9
Accolades flow to retiring Missed school day hoops coach C. Vivian Stringer comes full circle By Charles Hallman Sports Columnist First of two parts all of Fame Coach C. Vivian Stringer will retire in September after a half-century of coaching basketball. She amassed 1,055 wins, the most by any Black coach; four Final Four appearances; and 28 NCAA tourna-
“She has earned the right to be called one of the greatest women coaches!” ment berths at Cheyney State, Iowa and Rutgers, where she was that school’s longest tenured coach. In her announcement last Saturday in a released statement, Stringer said, “After recently celebrating the first women’s Final Four team at Cheyney State University, it sat with me that I have been at this for a long time. It is im-
portant to step aside and challenge others to step up and take this game forward.” LeRoy McCarthy helped organize the 40th anniversary gathering for the 1982 Cheyney State team that played for the first NCAA championship, the only HBCU school to do so. He told the MSR that after Stringer’s announcement, the school plans to erect a statue of her for its forthcoming new sports complex. “Coincidentally,” he said, “the Coach Stringer statue plans have been in development by the alumni for some time. Coach Stringer will join Coach John Chaney with his statue at Cheyney.” Twitter also honored Stringer’s 2001 Women’s Basketball and 2009 Naismith HOF career during which she touched countless lives through her coaching, leadership, mentorship and guidance. We received permission to use a couple of the remarks: “The strength of your shoulders allowed us to stand tall. We will forever keep your legacy in our hearts,” from
I decided to change the channel. Then it happened! I turned to Channel 11 and saw that the Class AA girls’
he first time I saw Lisa Lissimore was on a television set on Friday, March 17, 1978. At the time I was a seventh grader at Highland Park Junior High School, having just moved to St. Paul in the fall of 1977. C. Vivian Stringer with LeRoy McCarthy Photo by Deb Walker On this day I wanted to stay home, so I told my mother that South Carolina HC Dawn Stal- how important representation I wasn’t feeling well. Of course ey, whose team won the 2022 was for me a young Black girl. I was fine. I just wanted a day “She was the first Black off from school. My mother national title here in Minnehead coach I had ever seen believed me. Well, I think she apolis last month. “Coach Stringer lightly re- or spoken to. I never forgot believed me, so I stayed home. cruited me when I was in HS,” what she said.” Gray-Miller My day was going well. I ate from Minnesota Assistant later told the MSR, “She was a couple of snacks and watched Coach Yeshimbra “Shimmy” so good for our game and I am reruns of old tv shows. By noon, Gray-Miller. “I don’t think I was grateful for her.” however, I was bored. I could The MSR also spoke to sev- only watch so many TV shows ever good enough to play for her, but early in the recruiting eral of Stringer’s former players: and eat so much food. “So grateful to God that I was process we spoke on the phone Around 12:30, I was watchand she wrote me a really nice chosen to be a part of greatness ing a rerun of the TV cartoon follow-up note. She told me ■ See Stringer on page 9 classic “The Flintstones” when
Lissa Lissimore Photo courtesy MSHSL state basketball tournament semifinals was on. The teams were just warming up. I was about to turn the channel but saw that one of the teams had some Black players on it. Then it became clear that one of the teams was St. Paul Central. Central High School was right down the street from my house, so I decided to watch. Remember, I was in sev-
■ See Prep on page 9