Insight News ::: 05. 25.15

Insight2 HealthLet’s talk lunch

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Transit equityNew report shows wide racial disparities in Twin Cities transit times

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EducationUNCF’s Masked Ball supports education

CommentaryMichelle Obama resists taking the easy way out

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The nationwide push for police reform

10 year-old:

“At least I’m still alive”

Urban League severs 40-year partnership with MPS

Leadership lessons from the life of B.B. King

WASHINGTON (NNPA) – In the wake of the tragic death of Freddie Gray and the protests that followed in Baltimore, Black civic leaders continue to call for wholesale changes in policing and an end to police brutality in urban and predominately Black communities across the nation. Barbara Arnwine, the president and executive director of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, a nonpartisan group that works to end racial discrimination and inequality, said that when the Civil Rights Coalition on Police Reform was formed, American society was long overdue for a concerted push to restructure policing in America and to prevent the killing of unarmed African Americans. “We have been reactive, but we have also been proactively

“At least I’m still alive, I only got Maced.” Those were the courageous words of 10-year-old Taye (last name being withheld), who was the victim of being sprayed with a chemical irritant by a Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) offi cer during a downtown rally on May 13. The rally was in protest of the announcement that no charges would be fi led in the Madison, Wisc. Killing of 19-year-old Tony Robinson, who was shot by police. The rally was organized by Black Liberation Project and

Taye was marching along with his mother, Susan Montgomery, when he was sprayed. According to both Taye and his mother there was no provocation that caused the spraying and there was no warning offered by the offi cer in question. While no video has surfaced of Taye being sprayed, there is video of a person off camera presumed to be Taye screaming frantically and people yelling, “You just Maced a kid, you just Maced a 10-year-old kid.” Seconds later in the video, which had gone viral, it shows an offi cer indiscriminately spraying other protesters.

The Minneapolis Urban League (MUL) Board of Directors and Interim CEO announced on Wednesday, May 13 the MUL will not seek to renew for the 2015-2016 academic year its contract with Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) for the Urban League Academy (ULA). The alternative high school will close on June 5, 2015 ending a 40-year partnership. “This is a sad day for the Urban League Academy and community,” said Steven Belton, Interim President and CEO. “Our students found caring and encouraging teachers and an environment of mutual support and high expectations there. The Minneapolis Urban League will continue to advocate for educational equity and develop strategies for new educational services.” “We thank the Minneapolis Urban League for their years of service and partnership. We are committed to working closely with families to provide a smooth transition for students and to meet their academic needs for this upcoming school year,” said MPS interim Superintendent Michael Goar. The ULA serves a population of at-risk students who face serious challenges and have struggled to achieve academic success in traditional school settings. Unfortunately, contract revenue for ULA students has not kept up with costs and MUL has absorbed operating losses from the school for each of the past several years. In April, the MUL board agreed to lease its school building, located in south

By Freddie AllenNNPA Senior Washington Correspondent

Barbara Arnwine

MUL TURN TO 8REFORM TURN TO 8

TAYE TURN TO 8

KING TURN TO 4 Photo: Creative Commons / Heinrich Klaffs

“The King of Blues,” B.B. King, was a living legend and iconic fi gure. King, who died on May 14 at the age of 89 left his mark on American history and the world stage. His artistry transcended global borders and created a new appreciation for the blues. The blues represented the soulful account of the experiences of daily life, whether it be the good days or the bad days. Blues simply brought people together to spread love, happiness and joy. President Barack Obama described King as an “ambas-sador” for the blues. “B.B. King was born a sharecropper’s son in Mississippi, came of age in Memphis, Tenn. and became the ambassador who brought his all-American music to his country and the world,” Obama wrote in his statement. “No one worked harder than B.B. No one inspired more up-and-coming artists. No one did more to spread the gospel of the blues.” As we celebrate the life of B.B. King, we can also learn three key leadership lessons from his legacy.

3Leadershipfor SocialJustice

By Dr. Artika Tyner

Harry Colbert, Jr.Ten-year-old Taye, being hugged by his mother, Susan Montgomery and the Rev. Danny Givens, Jr. during a rally for Taye the day after

he was sprayed in the face with a chemical irritant by a Minneapolis Police Department offi cer.

By Harry Colbert, Jr. Contributing Writer

Rachelle Ferrell comes to the DakotaMORE ON PAGE 10

aesthetically speaking

Insight NewsVol. 42 No. 21 • The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.comMay 25 - May 31, 2015

Page 2 • May 25 - May 31, 2015May 25 - May 31, 2015 • Insight News insightnews.com

Let’s talk lunchLet’s face it, we are all busy people! We run around all day from the moment we wake up. The key to feeding yourself right is to have a plan....otherwise when the afternoon munchies arrive you will want to grab anything that’s handy. Don’t get stuck in the “fast food” trap, instead let’s talk about having some good ideas, that are quick, convenient and ready to grab! 1. The easiest thing to do is pack up

your lunch the night before. Pack up some of your leftovers from dinner and have them ready to grab in the morning.

2. A sandwich is okay... a sandwich loaded with veggies is even better... a sandwich, loaded with veggies and

put in a wrap instead of a big bun or bread is even better, or best yet, take all your sandwich fi xings and roll them in a large lettuce leaf. I love Ezekiel wraps, look for them in the refrigerator section at the grocery store. Skip the chips and pair your wrap with fruits like apples or pears or berries or veggies like carrots, celery and radish.

3. Salads! For my week I like to keep a big batch of a couple different kinds of salad that I can just grab throughout the week. A simple green salad can be upgraded just by adding chicken, nuts, seeds, peppers, onions, olives or whatever veggie you love!

4. Soups! Even though it’s hot outside, the air conditioning is probably blasting at your work and soup or chili may taste good. Again, it has the advantage of making a big batch on Sunday and having it ready to go in your refrigerator all week!

5. Spring Rolls! Again, I make up a huge batch at the beginning of the week and keep them in the fridge to munch on for lunches and snacks. Roll your favorite veggies, such as carrot, zucchini, peppers and avocado along with sprouts and cooked quinoa or rice, into a rice wrap or nori wrap... if you are a sushi fan you will love the nori (seaweed).

Citrus Basil Quinoa Salad Recipe! For the Quinoa Salad: • 1 1/2 cups dry quinoa • 3 cups water • 1 cup Orange Basil Dressing (recipe

below) • 1/2 cup fi nely diced red onion • 1 cucumber, chopped • 2 cups fresh spinach • 1 red bell pepper, chopped • salt and pepper

For the Orange Basil Dressing: • 1/2 cup orange juice • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar • 1/2 cup olive oil • 1/4 cup tightly packed fresh basil • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt • 1 tablespoon honey

Directions: 1. Combine the dry quinoa and water in

a medium saucepan over high heat. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat, allowing the quinoa to cook for 15 minutes, or until all of the water is absorbed. Remove from the heat, and fl uff with a fork.

2. To prepare the Orange Basil Dressing, combine all of the ingredients in a blender, and blend until completely smooth and emulsifi ed. Adjust the fl avor to taste, if desired.

3. Transfer the quinoa to a large bowl and toss with one cup of the Orange Basil Dressing and all of the chopped vegetables. (Don’t be surprised if the spinach wilts from the heat of the freshly cooked quinoa.)

4. Season with salt and pepper, to taste, and allow to marinate in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. Serve chilled, or at room temperature.

5. This dish will last for up to a week in the fridge, when stored in a sealed container. The fl avor gets better as it marinates!

Note: The leftover Orange Basil dressing makes a delicious addition to any leafy green salad, and will last for up to a week in the fridge. Recipe from The Detoxinistra.

Think Fruits and Veggies... ditch the fast foods, sodas, chips and fries! Think about Eating from all the colors of the rainbow...not from skittles, but from all the lovely produce that is now in season! These foods will give you energy and have you feeling great!

Julie McMahon, Founder/Owner of Sound Nutrition, is a Certifi ed Holistic Health Coach and Raw Food Nutrition Educator who is passionate about Nutrition, Health and Wellness. Julie believes in the power of whole foods to create optimal health and maximum energy fl ow and works with her clients in a step by step approach to achieve their personal vision of health. For more information, or to schedule a nutrition consultation, visit: www.mysoundnutrition.com or call NutritionJulie at 612-270-9344.

By Julie McMahon CHHCSound Nutrition LLC

Sound Nutrition cooking class held recently at Mississippi Market in St. Paul.

Top: Julie Hall and Erick GoodlowBottom left: Sheila Sweeney and Toronda SweeneyBottom middle: Jamie Minor and Nadya Sabuwala Bottom right: Rosalyn Riser and Adero Riser

insightnews.com Insight News • May 25 - May 31, 2015May 25 - May 31, 2015 • Page 3

HEALTHStudy reveals African diet lowers risk of colon cancer

Former model, B. Smith, seeks greater awareness of Alzheimer’s

Consumption of an African diet for only two weeks may reduce the risk of colon cancer, according to a University of Pittsburgh study published in Nature Communications. Researchers selected 20 African Americans in Pittsburgh and 20 rural South Africans to switch diets for two weeks. The Americans ate an African diet high in fi ber and low in fat with plenty of fruits and vegetables and little meat. The Africans consumed the average Western diet – a diet rich in fat and dairy. After the study concluded, the researchers performed colonoscopies on the participants. The researchers discovered that the African Americans who consumed the traditional African diet had reduced infl ammation in the colon and increased production of butyrate, a fatty acid

that may protect against colon cancer. “If you can increase the amount of (butyrate), you can override the carcinogenic effects of fat and meat,” said lead author Dr. Stephen J.D. O’Keefe, a physician in the Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition at the Pittsburgh School of Medicine. In contrast, the Africans who ate the Western diet showed changes in gut bacteria that raises the risk of colon cancer. “Our best hope is that it will open eyes to other possibilities, and point to the fact that a high-fi ber diet is not diffi cult to follow and is well tolerated,” O’Keefe said. Colon cancer is diagnosed in 150,000 Americans annually; African Americans are disproportionately affected. The disparity is particularly acute when compared to Blacks on the continent—65 per 100,000 Black Americans are diagnosed with colon cancer versus 5 per 100,000 Africans.

Smith, the fi rst African American woman to appear on the cover of Mademoiselle magazine in 1976, is reaching out to minorities who are battling Alzheimer’s disease. The model, born Barbara Smith, revealed her struggle with the disease in a CBS interview last July. Since then, she has teamed up with

her husband and caregiver, Dan Gasby, along with the organization Brain Health Registry to encourage more minorities to enroll in clinical trials for cognitive diseases. African Americans, Hispanics, and other minorities are under-represented in medical research. A study published in Alzheimer Disease and Associated Disorders found that more than 95 percent of subjects in a typical Alzheimer’s disease clinical trial are White. Gasby noted that many African-Americans view medical practices as distrustful

and equated their leeriness to the dissatisfaction of policing in America’s Black communities. “This is a 21st century civil rights issue in terms of understanding that Alzheimer’s have to be dealt with, and that we have to fi nd a way to work with pharmaceutical companies and research companies to get involved so that the data that they collect is going to help us,” Gasby told The Huffi ngton Post. Some issues hindering recruitment of minorities in Alzheimer’s clinical trials include primary care physicians’ lack of capacity and

resources to assess cognition and refer patients to research; barriers to participation for underrepresented communities, such as lack of cultural sensitivity; the requirement for a study partner (someone who can report on cognitive changes) for most Alzheimer’s trials; and the use of invasive procedures, such as lumbar punctures or brain imaging with an injected tracer agent, according to a 2014 Health Affairs article. “I suffer from Alzheimer’s myself – and know how critical clinical trials are to accelerating cures for brain disease,” Smith

said in a statement. “It’s important that we hear from people of all communities in order to fi nd the best treatments and cures, especially for specifi c populations.” A cabaret show and fundraiser held May 11 and entitled “Voices Remembered” honored Smith, who is now a New York restaurateur. Noted Broadway stars and voice-over actors performed during the show to help spread awareness to Alzheimer’s disease. Funds raised by the show benefi tted Alzheimer’s patients and caregivers.

© Can Stock Photo Inc. / nemifod384

By Ajoya Long Special to the NNPA from the Afro-American Newspaper

By Ajoya Long Special to the NNPA from the Afro-American Newspaper

B. Smith


The letter below was written by Anthony Morley and submitted to the Star Tribune on May 10. Morley is a former Star Tribune editorial writer. He makes the case that the paper should support the revival of the Minnesota News Council and

‘seize the opportunity’ to engage with other media outlets and the public on questions of unfair coverage, particularly in light of complaints from well-known voices in the African American community. The Star Tribune declined to print Morley’s letter.

To the editor:It’s time to revive the Minnesota News Council. For 40 years till 2011 the council provided an

independent “jury” of journalists and lay citizens, where the public and the media could jointly engage with questions of reportorial fairness. If the council still existed, it could well take up the strong chorus of current complaint about Star Tribune reporting from prominent African-American citizens. In a May 1 Counterpoint (“Star Tribune unfairly maligns

Urban League”) Steven L. Belton charged the newspaper with “misleading innuendo” and “unsubstantiated” negative reporting. Belton is interim president of the Minneapolis Urban League. He made his complaints specifi c regarding Star Tribune coverage of results and fi nancing in Urban League education programs. Belton’s complaint echoes and amplifi es similar charges

by other well-known African-American community voices. Their grievances too regard Star Tribune reporting on African-American organizations and political leaders. Two Twin Cities African-American weekly newspapers have reported and brought forth these accusations. The Star Tribune has not. In this situation Minnesota needs a public, professional and

dispassionate forum such as the News Council once provided. Here is an opportunity the Star Tribune should seize! Not so long ago it understood the need and strongly supported the News Council function. It could now do itself and the public a major service by putting its strength behind a revival — with the Star Tribune itself as the fi rst to engage its serious citizen critics.

Revive the Minnesota News CouncilCommentary byAnthony Morley

Leadership is about love othersB.B. King once wisely stated, “The blues are the three Ls- living, loving and hopefully, laughing.” Living: This focuses on creating meaning in our daily lives. Will we fi nd our passion

and discover our calling? Living is about the moments that we create. The moments when leaders seize the opportunity to make a difference and empower others to do the same. Loving: We are all interconnected hence love is the thread which weaves us together. Leadership is a ministry of love where leaders model the way, create a vision for justice, and inspire others to lead their own

change. Leaders cultivate the power of love in order to transform systems and create new, innovative solutions to pressing social justice issues. Laughing: Leaders help to bring others together to build a brighter future. They say laughter is the medicine for the soul. Laughter is also a tool for communication for sharing joy and happiness. This communication recognizes that people fi rst connect to leaders through their hearts by seeing a refl ection of their values within the very essence of a leader. Next, they connect through their actions which is manifested through collective engagement.

Leaders are adaptableThe very nature of the blues is the power of improvisation. The blues artist has the natural ability to harmonize sounds from a range of instruments and allow the message in one’s heart to emerge through lyrics. This is a natural process which unfolds in the moment. Like the blues artist, leaders must also improvise by being adaptable, bringing together diverse perspectives and engaging in creative problem solving. This is what distinguishes those who brainstorm ideas from those who dare to make their vision a lived reality. Those in the latter category are the leaders who have transformed their communities and the world.

Leaders follow their passionsOne of my most memorable life moments was participating in a civil rights bus tour sponsored by the Mississippi Center for Justice. While on the tour, we visited the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center located in Indianola, Miss. I learned about King’s story of emerging from humble beginnings to reaching the world’s stage. His story began in the cotton fi elds of the Delta as a sharecropper. However, it did not end there. His passion and love for music motivated him to share his gift with the world. King’s life journey serves as an important leadership lesson … it is not how you begin in life but how you end. Each day provides an opportunity to write a new chapter in your leadership journey. How will you apply these leadership lessons on love, courage and perseverance to your daily life?

Dr. Artika R. Tyner is an assistant professor at the University of St. Thomas College of Education, Leadership and Counseling.

KingFrom 1

Creative Commons / Tom Beetz

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New report shows wide racial disparities in Twin Cities transit times

EDUCATOR, AUTHOR AND ADVOCATE FOR JUSTICE NAMED COACH OF THE MONTH

Black Life Coaches recognize Dr. Artika Tyner

Obituary: Cherie Lovelace Price (Jackson)

Neighborhoods Organizing for Change, TakeAction Minnesota, ISAIAH, and the Center for Popular Democracy released a new report showing the impact of enormous racial disparities in commute times between transit riders of color and white drivers in the Twin Cities. The report shows that transit riders of color in the Twin Cities lose the equivalent of about four work weeks commuting annually compared to white drivers. “Reducing the transit time penalty is critical to closing Minnesota’s worst-in-the-nation racial disparities,” said Anthony Newby, executive director of Neighborhoods Organizing for Change. “If the legislature is serious about addressing racial inequities, they must increase funding for public transit this year. Only additional investments to reduce wait times and increase frequency will help close the gaps.” The transit time penalty

falls hardest on communities of color because of geographic segregation and the disparate rates of public transit use. Funding solutions and transit investments currently proposed by the State Senate and Gov. Dayton, which frontload the investments in increased bus service to address the dire need for quick action, would help to close this gap. “I’m an active person. I go to work, go to the doctor, go to visit family. But to do that I’m on public transit for an average of three to fi ve hours a day,” said NOC member Harry Maddox. “My daughter lives in

St. Cloud, and to see her I take the bus and train three to four hours each way. If I could get back all the time I’m spending on transit, I would spend it with my daughter.” NOC member LesleyAnne Crosby, a massage therapist who depends on clients in suburbs like Eden Prairie, has spent so much time in transit she found in diffi cult to get to work. “When you miss the bus, you have to wait on a highway impasse for an hour,” she said. “It affects how you live, how you eat, how you shop, how you sleep. You don’t get to rest when you get home at 9 pm and

have to wake up at 5. You don’t have time to do anything else but get up and go to work.” Rep. Mike Freiberg of Golden Valley was among the two dozen legislators who joined the “How We Roll” public transit challenge in March. “It took me over two hours to drop my kids off at daycare and get to the Capitol,” said Rep. Freiberg. “There are people in the suburbs who depend on transit, where it’s not as well served as core cities. It’s important to pass comprehensive transportation funding this year, including transit.”

The New York Times reported last week that commuting time is the single strongest factor that changes the odds of escaping poverty and noted that suffi cient access to public transportation has a stronger effect on the employment and income chances of a community than many other factors, including elementary school test scores and crime. Jacqueline Moren, a leader with ISAIAH, is a member of Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Minneapolis and relies on public transit. “As a person of faith, I believe all people are sacred and our transportation system ought to serve human dignity,” said Jacqueline. “I lived in Lauderdale and recently moved to St. Paul to be next to the Green Line. It takes 12 minutes to get to my church in south Minneapolis by

car, but one hour to take public transit. We need dedicated and sustainable transportation funding to not throw people under the bus, but put people on the bus.” “This report shows we have a transportation achievement gap. We cannot achieve quality of life for too many people in our community because of this disparity,” said Rep. Frank Hornstein. “We’ve heard stories from mothers literally freezing in the cold for an hour with their child because the bus is too full and from people who can’t get to jobs. We need to invest in our transit system to close this gap.” “Funding better transit service is an important piece of tackling racial disparities,” said Rep. Rena Moran. “We need to get this done this year.”

Report available at http://bit.ly/AboutTimeMN.

Black Life Coaches Network announced the selection of Dr. Artika Tyner as Coach of the Month for May 2015. The Coach of the Month award recognizes a member of the network who, through their work, displays a commitment to the organization’s mission to help Blacks lead an extraordinary life by harnessing the power of life coaching. “Since joining the Black Life Coach Network in December 2013, Artika has authored her fi rst book, ‘The Lawyer as Leader: How To Plant People and Grow Justice,’ fi nished the manuscript for her next publication, ‘The Leader’s Journey,’ connected with her audience through radio and television, expanded her network by becoming a contributor on ‘Ms. JD,’ and delivered her fi rst TEDx Talk,” said Dr. Towanna

Freeman, founder of the Black Life Coaches Network. “We applaud Artika for taking a stand for social change and leading a movement that will inspire a new generation of change agents.” Tyner is an assistant professor of public policy and leadership at the University of St. Thomas’ College of Education, Counseling and Leadership. According to Freeman, Tyner’s work is inspiring people across the globe to unleash transformative power within their hands to move beyond race, tribe, and creed. Tyner serves on the board of the Children’s Defense Fund - Minnesota and supports a number of causes including the Campaign for Prison Phone Justice, and local and national efforts to dismantle the school to prison pipeline. “Due to the economic, racial and social injustices that

marginalized communities are currently facing, now is the

time when leaders must stand ready to take a stand for justice,”

said Tyner. “We each can play an integral role in advancing leadership for social justice. My leadership training model (Planting People, Growing Justice) provides everyday people with the right tools for becoming the transformational leaders who can make a difference in this world. Planting People recognizes that each person has a measure of infl uence that can be used to positively affect the world around them. Growing Justice fosters collective engagement through community organizing and public policy advocacy.” Tyner has served in many different positions at the University of St. Thomas where she earned her Master’s degree in public policy and leadership, her law degree, and most recently, her doctorate. She has been a member of the Clinical Law Faculty team and is the director of diversity for the university’s law school.

Cherie Lovelace Price (Jackson), 83, of Minneapolis was peacefully called home May 14, 2015. Mrs. Price, eldest daughter of Orrin and Marguerite Price, was born on Nov. 2, 1931 in Hennepin County where she resided all of her life. She is survived by sister, Darrell Cox (Meek) and brother, Orrin “Jeep” Price, Jr. (Delores); honorary sisters, Doris Spencer and Ora Lee Law; children, Shane M. Price (Verna) Floyd E. Price and Carmelle B. Abron; 12 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Mrs. Price worked in the fi eld of rehabilitation of injured workers for many years and became a registered, qualifi ed rehabilitation consultant (QRC) in1987. She had a successful and long-standing career in occupational health and rehabilitation counseling, retiring from Control Data Systems Incorporated in the mid-1990s. An alumna of Metropolitan State University where she graduated with a B.S. in Human Services in 1979, Mrs. Price was a lifelong learner attending several certifi cation programs, workshops and seminars to increase her knowledge and ability to further

connect with colleagues and her community. She was a member of St. James A.M.E Church where she worshiped her entire life. She was also a consummate giver to several organizations, specifi cally Sabathani Community Center where she volunteered in many capacities. Mrs. Price was a community mother, never too busy to share

a positive word or simply listen. Such characteristics lead her to becoming one of the founding members of PICA Head Start (1969). Her door was always open for savory meals, thought provoking conversation and unapologetic honesty. This combination kept a plethora of family, friends and neighborhood children coming back. She was an avid supporter of fi ne arts and loved jazz vocalist Nancy Wilson. Mrs. Price took immense pride in her African heritage, instilling that same pride in her children and grandchildren. One could always fi nd palm branches adorning her doorstep and fi nd positive affi rmations such as, “Yes You Can” strategically placed throughout her home. Affectionately her grandchildren called her, “Big Chick,” “Gamma Ree” and “Hey Baby.” A Celebration of Life for Cherie L. Price (Jackson) takes place Saturday, May 30 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. with a repast immediately following service at St. James A.M.E Church, 3600 Snelling Ave., Minneapolis.

Transit rider and NOC member LesleyAnne Crosby (at podium) share her story of how the transit time penalty has impacted her.

“...report shows that transit riders of color in the Twin

Cities lose the equivalent of about four work weeks com-

muting annually compared to white drivers”

Cherie Lovelace Price (Jackson)

Dr. Artika Tyner

Insight News is publishedweekly, every Monday by McFarlane Media Interests.

Editor-In-ChiefAl McFarlane

Publisher Batala-Ra McFarlane

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More than any other fi rst lady of the United States of America, Michelle Obama continues to stand above those who would attempt to distort her leadership. First Lady Obama’s recent commencement address at the Tuskegee University in Alabama exemplifi ed her courage to speak truth to the world without fear of repercussions. Michelle Obama’s resilient optimism is refreshing as well as sobering. I am certain the class of 2015 at Tuskegee will always remember the strong and poignant words of wisdom that they were given during their graduation ceremonies. But we all can learn from her timely remarks. We live today in an increased atmosphere of racial polarization in America since the election and re-election of President Barack Obama. We, therefore, should welcome public utterances that transcend the prevalent negativity surrounding any attempt to address the question of race in the United States. Michele Obama is perfectly qualifi ed and strategically positioned to use her leadership in a constructive manner to advance the interests of Black America and all those who struggle and cry out for freedom, justice and equality. As a talented Harvard Law School graduate, devoted mother, and loyal spouse to

the president, the fi rst lady has risen to become one of the most admired persons in the world. The fi rst lady eloquently stated, “But here’s the thing – our history provides us with a better story, a better blueprint for how we can win. It teaches us that when we pull ourselves out of those lowest emotional depths, and we channel our frustrations into studying and organizing and banding together – then we can build ourselves and our communities up. We can take on those deep-

rooted problems, and together – together – we can overcome anything that stands in our way.” In other words, we should strive to avoid complacency and the cynicism of hopelessness. The history and the centuries-old legacy of African people in America and throughout the world proves our ability to overcome the hardships of oppression and injustice. It was also good to hear Michelle Obama call for Black American unity and

“banding together.” Our families and communities across the nation are certainly in critical need of greater unity and collective resolve to stand up together to provide leadership and direction in particular for our youth and young emerging leaders. We cannot afford to permit the evolution of an ahistorical generation of young people who have not been given the truth of our history nor given the encouragement that they need to excel and

make their mark on history today. In fact, over the next weeks we will witness numerous graduation ceremonies in particular at other Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The good news is that thousands of Black American college graduates from HBCUs and from other institutions of higher learning will be pushing forward to demand greater access to wealth-building careers with the intent on giving more back

to the communities from which they have emerged. Like the fi rst lady, I am optimistic about the future to the extent to which we continue to stand up to injustice while at the same time pressing forth to economically empower our families and communities. Education and empowerment are both goals that must be attained and each generation has to rise to the occasion with persistence and focus. There will be setbacks and sometimes disappointments in everyone’s life. Yet, the enduring lesson from Michelle Obama’s magnifi cent address was that when those life challenges happen, do not let your problems or critics defi ne who you are. We have to have faith in our own capacity to rebound and to stand for truth even when it might not be the popular or politically expedient. We are a resilient people. We resist oppression. We are against inequality and injustice. We stand for liberation and freedom for ourselves and for all people. The more we stand together, the more we make progress. We are grateful that in our lifetime we are privilege to witness how the fi rst lady epitomizes what it means to be a freedom fi ghter with courage and grace, but most of all, with a glowing resilience that motivates and inspires others to excel.

Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. is the President and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) and can be reached for national advertisement sales and partnership proposals at: [email protected]; and for lectures and other professional consultations at: http://drbenjaminfchavisjr.wix.com/drbfc

COMMENTARY

Black Press of America

By Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., President

and CEO, NNPA

Michelle Obama resists taking the easy way out

A message for the class of 2015

“Life for me ain’t been no crystal stair. / It’s had tacks in it, /And splinters, / And boards torn up, / And places with no carpet on the fl oor—Bare. / But all the time / I’se been a-climbin’ on, / And reachin’ landin’s, / And turnin’ corners, / And sometimes goin’ in the dark / Where there ain’t been no light. / So, boy, don’t you turn back.” – Langston Hughes, “Mother to Son,” 1922 If you are disposed to using the Internet as your guide, a diploma will generally be described as the proof of your successful completion of a course of study, or the bestowal of an academic degree. Speaking from personal experience, I can tell you that diploma in your grasp, occupying a prominent space on a wall or waiting to be pressed into your eager hand is so much more than the sum of your years-long efforts to be where you are today. Your degree is a key that opens a new door, a new phase of life and a new set of challenges. Your life’s journey – and its achievements – does not end here. Celebrate, because you’ve earned it; bask in your well-earned feeling of accomplishment today, because tomorrow you will fi nd that there is much work to be done. On the other side of that new door is a staircase, and that staircase may not be the kind fashioned from crystal with smooth, reliable, clear-cut steps. Obstacles may slow or impede your climb. There may be tacks, broken fl oorboards and torn up carpet that would trip, or at worst, defeat someone without the training you have been so fortunate to attain. There is no shortcut here, no elevator, or bypassing of these diffi cult steps and turns. There is, however, the choice to apply the perseverance and commitment to excellence

you have already shown in your higher education journey. On the one hand, there is much to celebrate in our country when it comes to academic achievement in African-American communities. Today, we enjoy the highest high school graduation rates in history. More students of color are in college and dropout rates are at historic lows. But the wealth and unemployment gap between Blacks and Whites remains wide. While the Black unemployment rate has fi nally dipped into the single digits, it stubbornly remains more than twice as high as the jobless rate for Whites. As our country’s economy continues to make steady gains after the debilitating 2008 recession, millions in Black and Brown communities are being left behind. In this country—founded largely on the principle of economic progress through hard work—the American dream of upward mobility remains only a dream for too many of its citizens. Your education, drive and diploma, may likely shield you from the harsh economic realities experienced throughout communities of color across our nation, but it does not strip you of an obligation to be an actor, rather than a spectator, in our country’s struggle to create one nation with liberty, justice and economic opportunity for all. No one gets to where they are on his or her own. You have parents, grandparents, friends and family members who invested in your future success, put you on this path and made sure you

stayed the course. How will you repay their commitment to you? Whether your ancestors came here by plane, by train, by ship or shackled underneath the hull of a ship; whether the continent they called home was Asia, Europe or Africa, what they did when they reached the shores of our nation, what they sacrifi ced—all of it is debt incurred. How will you choose to compensate them for their struggles? Among you are the teachers who will lift the standard of education in poor communities and begin to close the achievement gap; among you are the preachers who will heal the wounds of communities torn apart by violence; among you are the elected offi cials who will institute laws and policies that promote social and economic fairness for all of America’s citizens. Herein lies the answer. The answer our nation has been searching for is you and your talent, put to a higher purpose. I cannot promise you that your climb to success in this life will be a crystal stair. You may very well encounter dark corners and obstacles. What I can promise you is that you have been prepared to meet these challenges head on. And more than meet these challenges, you have also been prepared to be an actor in solving so many of the longstanding issues and inequities facing our nation, so “don’t you turn back.”

Marc H. Morial, former mayor of New Orleans, is president and CEO of the National Urban League.

To Be Equal

By Marc H. Morial

Joyce N. BoghosianMichelle Obama

No one gets to where they are on his or her own.

PL_18584_MSL-MMD_Print-BW-5-25x10-5.indd 1 5/5/15 12:35 PM


EDUCATIONUNCF’s Masked Ball supports education

Spotlight Schools share $1 million grant

The Twin Cities area office of the UNCF (United Negro College Fund) joined more than 400 civic and business leaders in support of education at the 3rd Annual UNCF Masked Ball at the Hyatt Regency Hotel on May 9. The annual black-tie event raised funds that provide metro-area students with the support and financial aid they need to attend and graduate college. “UNCF scholarship students have a strong history of becoming the next generation of leaders,” said Kimberly Price, vice president of 3Mgives and 2015 Masked Ball corporate chairperson. “Investing in the lives of these talented students will pay dividends to the global community in the years to come.” Funds raised at the event support the Campaign for Emergency Student Aid, which helps UNCF students to pay final bills that might

otherwise prevent on-time graduation. Funds will also provide general support for UNCF’s 37 member colleges and universities and contribute toward the Twin Cities HOPE Scholarship program. “This community has always shown up to support our future leaders,” said Sharon Smith-Akinsanya, UNCF area development director. “We are incredibly grateful for the commitment that this region continues to show in support of these students who will be responsible for building and leading a better Minnesota.” Last year, the 2014 Twin Cities Masked Ball netted more than $150,000 for member school support and more than $70,000 for recipients of Hope scholarships. Because of donor support, students attending UNCF scho ols pay an average of 30 percent lower tuition and fees than comparable schools nationwide.

“We can’t believe it,” and “This good news made my day,” are some of the reactions by school administrators’ to news their school – after a rigorous selection process – will receive grant monies totaling $1 million. Building on school success that is “moving the needle” towards closing the largest education disparities gap in the country between low-income students of color and white students, Target and Greater Twin Cities United Way last summer jointly announced the Spotlight Schools initiative – a grant awarded to 10 kindergarten through 12th grade public or charter schools to augment their work. More than 40 Minneapolis and St. Paul charter and public

schools were invited to apply based on demonstrated success with low income students of color. However, only 10 schools were selected in the highly competitive process. Each school will receive $100,000 to fund a year-long project aimed at accelerating the pace of successful student achievement. Those schools received an in-person special delivery of a personal congratulatory letter from Target and United Way executives and packages loaded with treats to celebrate the schools’ success. Spotlight Schools’ administrators had no idea what was in store for them when the packages and letters were delivered by United Way staffers. Target and United

Way leadership said the Spotlight Schools is a product of involvement

from academic and thought leaders representing charter associations, community

organizations, education coalitions, foundations and school districts. The leadership also indicated these awards are a game-changer for these schools. “Spotlight Schools’ teachers will now have the technology – from Smartboards to iPads – that are necessary to help students be on an even academic fi eld. It’s a win-win: enriched classroom experiences in which students can excel and thrive equal a stronger educational foundation. United Way is deeply committed to equity for all students. These grants put us another step closer to achieving that goal,” said United Way president and CEO, Sarah Caruso. “At Target, supporting

communities through giving has always been a cornerstone of our business and the Spotlight Schools grant is one example of how Target will achieve our goal of giving $1 billion to education by the end of 2015. The 10 schools being recognized by receiving the Spotlight Schools grants are amazing schools serving in-need students in our community, so we’re excited to see how the grants will help accelerate academic achievement for more students with greater urgency,” said Target executive vice president and chief corporate social responsibility offi cer Laysha Ward. Spotlight Schools will receive the grant monies in time for the 2015-2016 academic year.

Spotlight Schools initiative grant recipient Eric Mahmoud of Harvest Preparatory with United Way’s Bharti and Sam Blackwell.

Sharon Smith-Akinsanya, area development director, UNCF (left); Kimberly F. Price, UNCF Masked Ball chair and vice president, 3Mgives and 3M Foundation; Sharon Ryan, Masked Award honoree; Robert Ryan, Masked Award honoree and Laysha Ward, UNCF

Masked Ball vice chair and executive vice president and chief corporate social responsibility offi cer, Target Corporation (right).


Protesters say the offi cer shown in the video is the one who sprayed Taye. While the MPD has yet to confi rm the identity of the offi cer, several protesters, including Michael McDowell of Black Lives Matter, have identifi ed the offi cer as Ray Witzman. While where as on May 13 people were rallying for Robinson, the next day more than 100 people turned out in

the rain to protest and march for Taye. “I’m not going anywhere,” said a determined Taye. “Every time we protest they don’t listen to us and I’m not going to stop coming out until people listen.” Taye, who according to his mother has autism, also suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) – a condition his mother said was brought on when Taye was handcuffed and arrested at just six years old. According to Montgomery, as a result of the May 13 incident Taye suffered temporary

partial vision loss and severe headaches. With the climate think with tensions between police and African-American communities across the country, Montgomery said she was a bit relieved to get calls from both Minneapolis Mayor Betsy Hodges and Minneapolis Police Chief Janeé Harteau expressing their concern for her son and the chief promising a full investigation. Montgomery said the incident has shaken her and she even briefl y considered

not attending the rally being held for her son, but she and Taye decided it was important that they speak out about what happened. “We haven’t even had a chance to calm down yet. We couldn’t sleep much,” said Montgomery. Newly-elected Minneapolis NAACP president, Nekima Levy-Pounds called the actions of the offi cer outrageous. “It was totally unacceptable for that offi cer to have used his spray like that,” said Levy-Pounds. “I’m a mother of a 10-year-old and to see that

video and hear Taye’s screams – blood curdling screams – it was unbearable. This child has been traumatized.” Levy-Pounds said the NAACP is calling for a full investigation and for a review and changes to policies and practices within the department. “We are calling on Chief Harteau and the mayor to revamp and overhaul these police practices that lead to so many excessive force complaints” said Levy-Pounds. “From my perspective this offi cer showed a disregard

for humanity and I think that attitude needs to be rooted out of the department. And in reality, he’s not the only one. This lack of trust breeds hostility. We’re not going to take it any longer.” The NAACP branch president also called on police who are in favor of community to begin to speak out. “We need to also talk about the silence of so called good offi cers who witness all these abuses. They need to come forward and stop doing nothing,” said Levy-Pounds.

The Church of God in Christ (COGIC) will celebrate its 65th annual women’s international convention crusade May 25 – May 29 in Minneapolis. Morning services will be held at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday through Friday with evening service at 7 p.m., Monday – Friday at the Minneapolis Convention Center, 1301 2nd

Ave. S., Minneapolis. The convention is held by president and general supervisor of the Department of Women, Mother Willie Mae Rivers, who resides in Goose Creek, S.C. She is a member of Calvary Church of God in Christ, where she has served as church mother for more than 65 years. The International Women’s

Convention began 65 years ago in Los Angeles with 100 women in attendance. The convention is held annually in various cities across North America and now has more than 10,000 people in attendance. The convention is designed to promote women and men ministry through evangelism by retaining values and principles of holiness.

LIFESTYLEMinneapolis welcomes the 65th Annual COGIC International Women’s Convention

Minneapolis, to a startup charter school, which will provide revenue to the MUL. A search for another school venue proved unsuccessful.

Contract alternative schools like ULA do not receive lease aid from the State of Minnesota, which is a fi nancial disadvantage as compared to charter schools, which receive lease aid. Contract alternatives also do not receive tax levy revenue, drop-out prevention assistance and other program monies that traditional public schools are eligible to receive. At-risk students require a host of academic and support services that are not covered by the per pupil allocation to alternative schools, which is far below the amount allocated to charter and traditional public schools. “The fi nancial issues are complicated, but the disappointing reality is we cannot afford to provide the quality education our students deserve under the present funding structure,” said Clinton Collins, Jr., MUL Chair. “We carefully studied the fi scal implications of continuing our partnership with MPS and examined various alternatives. Ultimately we decided our duty of fi nancial stewardship necessitated closing the school.” ULA will hold its fi nal graduation ceremony for the Class of 2015 at 6:00 p.m. on June 1, for 12 students. The commencement exercise will be held at MUL’s Glover Sudduth Center, located at 2100 Plymouth Avenue North. The community is invited to attend.

advancing a platform of policy reforms and recommendations for change,” said Arnwine. Those recommendations include the passage of the “End Racial Profi ling Act,” the mandatory use of police body cameras, better accountability of the use and distribution of federal military weapons and equipment to local law enforcement and reform to grand jury process. Cornell Brooks, the president and CEO of the NAACP, said that the

conversations happening around police killings in Baltimore, Ferguson, Mo. and beyond are painful reminders of how this whole issue hits home. The NAACP is headquartered in Baltimore and Thurgood Marshall, “one of our greatest heroes,” lived in the Sandtown-Winchester community where Gray was arrested, said Brooks. “We know that when an African American man is 21 times more likely to lose his life at the hands of police than his White counterpart, this is a reason to be fearful and a reason to think about running, but it is certainly not a crime,” said Brooks. “Freddie Gray is not

just one victim. He stands in a long tragic line of victims that stretches across the length and the breadth of this country.” Brooks expressed confi dence in Marilyn Mosby, the Baltimore state’s attorney who fi led formal charges against six police offi cers who were involved in Gray’s arrest and transport to Baltimore’s Western District police station. “She did not punt this to a grand jury, which she could have done, but she chose instead as the prosecutor to take responsibility in bringing these charges which prosecutors in jurisdictions all over this country are quite able to do, but too often are unwilling to do,” said Sherrilyn Ifi ll, the president and director-counsel, NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc., a legal group that fi ghts for racial justice and raises awareness of disparities. “This is a beginning, this is not a conviction.” Ifi ll said that the Freddie Gray case allows community stakeholders, civic leaders and

law enforcement offi cials to have a deeper and richer conversation about this issue that has roiled the country since last year. “This year the tide has shifted,” said Ifi ll. “Why has it shifted? It has shifted, because cell phone videos have shown the entire the country the kind of brutality that many residents of this country live with in terms of their relationship with the police.” The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has made it harder for police to suppress the record of that brutality by offering a free software application for smartphones that allows users to save video fi les remotely, so that even if the fi le is deleted or their phone is destroyed, a record of the encounter still exists. The Missouri branch of the nonprofi t group that defends constitutional rights of individuals and organizations in the U.S. released the iPhone app that enables users to record “exchanges between police offi cers and themselves or

other community members in audio and video fi les that are automatically sent to the ACLU of Missouri,” according to a press release about the software. The software, called “Mobile Justice,” also lets users send out alerts to notify others users nearby so that they can come to the scene and record the interaction. The “Mobile Justice” app is available through the iPhone app store and for the Android platform through the Google Play store. Pamela Meanes, the president, National Bar Association, a network of predominately Black lawyers and judges, called for changing the laws associated with policing at the state, local and federal levels. Brooks said that a fundamental shift in the culture and modality of policing in this country is needed. “It has been said that it’s hard to do or that this can’t be done or that this is something that might be done at some distant point in the future,” said Brooks. “The fact of the matter is there are police departments across the country that have brought down crime increased trust with the community made their police offi cers safer, prosecutions easier and made it more likely that witnesses will come forward by effectively deploying community policing.” Pamela Meanes said that the Civil Rights Division of the Justice Department must be appropriately funded to be able to do the type of patterns and practices investigation that they did following the death of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Mo. That investigation uncovered deep-rooted racial discrimination in law enforcement and the courts that led to resignation of the city manager, court offi cials and eventually the police chief in the small North St. Louis County

town. On May 8, Attorney General Loretta Lynch opened a civil pattern or practice investigation into Baltimore Police Department (BPD) at the request of Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake. “Our goal is to work with the community, public offi cials, and law enforcement alike to create a stronger, better Baltimore,” said Lynch. “The Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division has conducted dozens of these pattern or practice investigations, and we have seen from our work in jurisdictions across the country that communities that have gone through this process are experiencing improved policing practices and increased trust between the police and the community. Lynch continued: “In fact, I encourage other cities to study our past recommendations and see whether they can be applied in their own communities. Ultimately, this process is meant to ensure that offi cers are being provided with the tools they need – including training, policy guidance and equipment – to be more effective, to partner with civilians, and to strengthen public safety.” Arnwine said that, since the beginning, the Freddie Gray case in Baltimore was rife with injustice. “We have been saying to the Department of Justice that the reason that a patterns and practice case needs to be opened against the police department in Baltimore. This case of Freddie Gray is systematic of deep and abiding culture within that department that has to be investigated fully and reversed,” said Arnwine. “This is just one step. Every offi cer needs to be held accountable and the racism that has infected our policing must be stopped.”

ReformFrom 1

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The Only “Worship in Circle” Church Experience

Pastor Roslyn Harmon Sundays 2-4pm

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For More Info: 612.564.9962

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COMMUNITY

Classifi eds Phone: 612.588.1313 Fax: 612.588.2031 Email: [email protected]

On West Broadway, shelters get a stewardThere are a few more watchful eyes making sure transit shelters along West Broadway Avenue are staying clean and safe. The West Broadway Improvement District has adopted more than a half-dozen shelters along the North Minneapolis corridor, which stretches about two miles from the Mississippi River to Sheridan Avenue. Clean-up crews hired to help maintain the special service district pick up litter at and between the shelters three times a week, supplementing maintenance performed by Metro Transit’s Public Facilities staff. If there are issues like broken glass or graffi ti, crew members are encouraged to inform Metro Transit. Crew members come from Better Futures Enterprises, which provides employment opportunities for adults who have faced challenges in their lives. To recognize the Improvement District’s commitment, the group’s name and logo is featured on the adopted shelters. Board member Tara Watson, who owns two West Broadway businesses, said the adoptions are part of a broader mission to make the corridor a vibrant destination. “In order to make change you’ve got to have your hands in certain things, and this is one of those things,” she said. After receiving approval from the city last year, the West Broadway Improvement District began providing services in January. In addition to cleaning the right-of-way, the district will support a branding effort through banners, holiday lighting and decorations. The district’s initiatives are supported through a special assessment on property owners. (Property owners voted overwhelmingly in favor of the assessments.) More than 60 shelters have now been adopted through Metro Transit’s Adopt-A-Shelter program. The adoption of several sites is unique. Businesses, individuals

or groups that adopt shelters alert Metro Transit to special maintenance needs, report vandalism or other repair needs.

Some adopters go beyond this commitment by performing light maintenance like litter removal. Bill Hultberg, who manages

the Adopt-A-Shelter program for Metro Transit, said assistance from adopters is critical to maintaining Metro Transit’s network of more

than 800 shelters. “Having those extra eyes and ears available to tell us where we’re needed is extremely helpful,” he said. “With the help of our adopters, we can quickly identify and address issues and ensure our shelters are safe, secure and clean.” Bobby Hardimon is one of several crew members who works for Better Futures Enterprises. A 30-year resident of North Minneapolis, he said the clean-up efforts have already made a noticeable impact. When he started going out a few months ago, it wasn’t unusual for him to come away with several bags of trash. The

load gets lighter every week, Hardimon said. “People are starting to get more conscious about it,” he said during a recent trip up the corridor. ”I’m even starting to see people do it on their own.” The shelter adoptions come amid the West Broadway Transit Study, which will identify future improvements on the corridor. Residents can learn more about the study at an open house at 5 p.m. on Thursday, May 21, at the North Community YMCA.

Learn more about the Adopt-A-Shelter program:https://www.metrotransit.org/adopt-a-shelter

Bobby Hardimon, of Better Futures Enterprises, picks up litter near a shelter at Broadway and Sheridan avenues. Hardimon is one of several crew members who work on behalf of the West Broadway Improvement District to help keep the corridor clean.

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RENTAL UNITS AVAILABLEThe Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Housing Authority has rental units available in Cass County, MN. Please call 218-335-8280. Must meet certain qualifi cations.

RENTALSTapestry Management, LLC has various sized apart-ments/townhomes for rent in the following locations: St. Paul, Golden Valley, Mankato, Red Wing, N. St. Paul, Rochester, Plymouth, Jordan, Winona, Olivia, and Red-wood Falls. Rental assistance is available to qualifi ed applicants in all locations. Please contact the appropri-ate location for availability and additional information.Birmingham Townhomes – St. Paul952-854-8800Calvary Center Apartments – Golden Valley 763-546-4988Colonial Square Apartments – Mankato507-345-1321Cooperidge Apartments – Red Wing651-388-1500Franklyn Park Apartments – N. St. Paul651-770-1504Innsbruck Townhomes – Rochester 507-289-1319Mission Oaks Townhomes – Plymouth763-559-5770Newbridge Apartments – Rochester507-282-8284Northgate Community Housing – Rochester507-289-1319Oakridge Apartments – Rochester507-281-1031Schule Haus – Jordan952-492-2084

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DEBBIE DUNCAN IS LIVE ON THE DRIVE

The annual Northside summer concert series, Live on the Drive, returns for its eighth year. The soulful Debbie Duncan and her band kick off the concert series on Thursday, June 11, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. This will be the fi rst of three concerts held outdoors this summer on the scenic Victory Memorial Drive at 34th Avenue North in Minneapolis. Duncan began her musical career in her hometown of Detroit, where she studied classical voice and recorded back-up vocals for Mitch Ryder and Bob Seger (among many other musical experiences). She later moved to Los Angeles for a successful run before coming to Minneapolis to front the 10-piece band at Rupert’s

Nightclub in the 1980s. Food vendors the Lowry Café, Mama Donato’s Woodfi red Pizza, Sandy’s and Nona Rosa’s will be on site for the concert series. Later into the evening “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” play at dusk. Live on the Drive is presented by the Cleveland Neighborhood Association along with North Memorial Hospital, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, North End Hardware, Lowry Café, Westphal Auxiliary Legion, Insight News, Healy Creative, North News, Victory Neighborhood Association, Washburn-McReavy, A-Sign 4 U, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council and the Metropolitan Regional

Arts Council. The event is funded in part by appropriations from the Minnesota State Legislature with money from the state’s general fund, and its arts and cultural heritage fund. Live on the Drive brings people together from across the Northside and throughout the greater Twin Cities to hear music and to celebrate summer, good health and Northside city living. Last summer, more than 4,500 people attended. Other Live on the Drive concerts feature Toki Wright (July 9), and guitarist Javier Trejo (August 13th). For more information, call (612) 588-1155 or visit www.LiveOnTheDrive.org. Debbie Duncan


Flint Hills International Children’s Festival May 30 - 31

CAMELOT: Thrilling, tragic splendor

Rachelle Ferrell comes to the Dakota

Th e classic story of legendary characters, noble ideals and forbidden romance that is “Camelot” was presented in its thrilling, tragic splendor to a full house at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts. “Camelot’s” medieval romances timeless magic and fantasy with its sword fi ghting, jousting, love triangles, heartbreak, war, deception and betrayal were the backdrop of the legendary tale of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table. Th e tale of King Arthur, Guenevere, Sir Lancelot, Merlyn the Magician and the Knights of the Round Table transported the Ordway audience into an era of knighthood, chivalry and artistry. Th e spectacular scenery, costumes and enchanting vocals added to its grandeur. For more than 1,000 years “Camelot” has been modifi ed

to imitate the ideals, ethics and systems of the period in which it is being told, capturing the imagination of new generations. Such is the case

with the 2014/2015 national tour of Lerner and Loewe’s version of the tale. Th e original 1960s Broadway production earned

four Tony Awards. “More than 50 years aft er its Broadway debut, the story remains the same, but the aesthetic is very diff erent,” said

James Rocco, vice president of programming and producing artistic director for the Ordway. Two local young actors, Alec Fisher and Henry

Constable, were cast to share the role of Tom of Warwick, a young boy destined to be a knight. Both of these young actors are accomplished professionals with extensive and impressive resumes. Constable performed at the Guthrie Th eater and Chanhassen Dinner Th eater and has been trained at the Children’s Th eater and done national and local commercials. Fisher’s many performances include appearances at the Guthrie Th eater, Children’s Th eater Company and Broadway Re-Imagined – a partnership with Hennepin Th eatre Trust. “Th e bold interpretation of ‘Camelot’ is the kind of musical theater that inspires and energizes us,” said Patricia Mitchell, president and CEO of the Ordway. “It is also a great example of the unique programming that makes the Ordway a top summer destination for audiences of all ages.”

Dynamic vocalist and pianist Rachelle Ferrell returns to Minneapolis for four shows at the Dakota Jazz Club. Th e wildly popular Ferrell will perform at the Dakota, 1010 Nicollet Mall, downtown Minneapolis, on Wednesday, May 27 and Th ursday, May 28. Shows are 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. each evening. Th ere are very few artists who have fans that cross multiple genres such as jazz,

R&B, soul, pop and gospel; but then again there are very few singers who have the vocal range of Ferrell. Th e gift ed vocalist is one of only a handful who can achieve the high-pitched tone known as the whistle register. Ferrell’s ability to connect with her audiences during live performances has led some to call her shows spiritual events. “Her sound is at once classic and modern, aided by her six

octave vocal range. But if you think this show is about vocal acrobatics, think again. Ferrell uses her astonishing technique to cut to the heart of her songs, adding an extra emotional layer to her show,” said Dan Eikmeier, Dakota artist coordinator. Eikmeier was quick to off er the highest praise for Ferrell’s vocal abilities saying she’s among rarifi ed air when it comes to vocal ability. “Th ere are a small handful

of artists whose talent is so focused that it is immediately evident. Two or three notes are all you need to understand that you are in the presence of something special. Billie Holiday and Ella Fitzgerald had it. Whitney Houston had it. And Rachelle Ferrell has this unique quality,” said Eikmeier. “Rachelle Ferrell is a once-in-a-lifetime vocal talent.” Ferrell’s career has spanned 30 years – yet another testament

to her popularity. Starting as a backup singer for the likes of Lou Rawls, Patti LaBelle, Vanessa Williams and George Duke, Ferrell released her fi rst solo album, “First Instrument,” in Japan in 1990 (it wasn’t released in the U.S. until 1995). Doing more touring than recording, it’s been 13 years since her last release, “Live at Montreux ‘91 – ‘97.” Tickets for Ferrell’s shows range from $30 - $50 and are

on sale at the Dakota box offi ce, (612) 332-5299 or online at www.dakotacooks.com.

Rachelle Ferrell at the DakotaWednesday, May 27 and Th ursday, May 287 p.m. and 9 p.m.Dakota Jazz Club, 1010 Nicollet Mall, downtown Minneapolis$30 - $50 (612) 332-5299www.dakotacooks.com

By Carmen Robles

Scott Suchman 2014The Company of CAMELOT

Photo courtesy of Dakota Jazz Club


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Monday, May 25HIP-HOP/PERFORMANCE

EPMD featuring Carnage the Executioner, DJ Ander OtherAmsterdam Bar and Hall6th St. W. at Wabasha Street North, St. Paul18-plus$25

Get ready for “Business” as hip-hop legends EPMD close out a Memorial Day Weekend full of great entertainment by performing the group’s classic hits at the Amsterdam in St. Paul. Also on the bill are Carnage the Executioner and DJ Ander Other of Doomtree.

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES/ART

Walker on the Green: Artists Designed Mini GolfWalker Sculpture Garden1750 Hennepin Ave., MinneapolisDaily through Sept. 7All ages$12 - $19 adults, $9 - $15 students and Walker members

Combining contemporary art and sport, the Walker Art Center reopens its popular Walker on the Green: Artists Designed Mini Golf. Each hole of the dual nine-hole courses is uniquely designed by diff erent artists creating a visually entertaining and challenging experience at the edge of the Walker Sculpture Garden. Th e course is lit for nighttime play until 8 p.m. Sunday – Wednesday and play until 10 p.m. Th ursday – Saturday.

Tuesday, May 26AWARENESS/PARTY

Color Me QueerHoney 205 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis8:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.$10

Join OutFront Minnesota to celebrate and fund the continuing work in LGBTQ communities of color. Th ere will be special guest performers and a dance party. Presale tickets are available at www.fl avorus.com/event/Color-Me-Queer/291605.

Wednesday, May 27R&B/SOUL/JAZZ/CONCERT

Rachelle FerrellDakota Jazz Club and Restaurant1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis7 p.m., 9 p.m.

Pianist/vocalist, Rachelle Ferrell

is one of the most prodigiously talented voices on today’s R&B/soul scene. Her voice, disarming in its elasticity, her remarkable piano playing, her brilliant songwriting. Her command over each of these elements provides such a focused, emotional impact, she will have audiences searching for superlatives when it’s over.

Tickets are available at www.dakotacooks.com.

Thursday, May 28

HIP-HOP/R&B/COMPETITION

KMOJ’s Rush It or Flush It Live

Capri Th eater 2027 W. Broadway Ave., Minneapolis6 p.m. – 8 p.m.$3

Rush It or Flush It Live is a family friendly event showcasing Minnesota’s up and coming talent. Taking off from KMOJ’s legendary radio segment, fans can see new acts Apollo Th eater style. Music is provided by DJ Fundraiser with Chris Styles hosting. For those interested in performing, submit an edited MP3, age, name of artists and contact information to [email protected].

FUTURE SOUL/PERFORMANCE/PARTY

hi•a•tusPublic Functionary1400 12th Ave. N.E., Minneapolis9 p.m.$10

Hosted by Alicia Steele and Sarah White and curated by Greenroom Magazine, hi•a•tus is a “future soul” monthly. Th is month features a member of Soulection, Su Na, Sophia Eris (all-remix vocal set), M¥K and DJ Just Nine.

Friday, May 29HIP-HOP/CONCERT/FUNDRAISER

Fift h Annual Heiruspecs Scholarship Fundraiser Show: An Evening with HeiruspecsBedlam Lowertown 213 4th St., St. Paul7 p.m. – 10 p.m.$12 adults, $10 studentsAll ages

In 2010 St. Paul based hip-hop fusion band, Heiruspecs, connected with its members’ alma mater, Central High School, to create a scholarship fund at the school. In fi ve years together they have raised more than $15,000 in scholarships for Central students pursuing higher education with demonstrated artistic

interests. All of the proceeds go directly to the Central High School Foundation’s Heiruspecs Scholarship Fund.

Saturday, May 30YOUTH SUMMIT/AWARENESS

Twin Cities Black Youth SummitMetropolitan State University700 E. Seventh St., St. Paul,10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

With the theme of “POWER: Promoting Our Wisdom 2 Elevate & Rethink,” the Black Youth Summit is hosted by Metropolitan State University in partnership with Minneapolis Public Schools Offi ce of Equity and Diversity. Th e

summit is free and open to the public, but registration is required and space is limited. Youth will receive preference in registration. Interested parties can register via the summit website. www.tcblackyouthsummit.wordpress.com.

HIP-HOP/SPOKEN WORD/PERFORMANCE

Sound of the Soul Poetic Expressions Series: Th e African SpiritCapri Th eater2027 W. Broadway Ave., Minneapolis6 p.m.

Th is event is presented by Drum International Association, a 5013c Business Consortium dedicated to the promotion of global collective economics and community development. Th e primary

aim of the Drum is to unify the creative and entrepreneurial spirit within the Black, African and African-American communities.

Sunday, May 31IMPROV/PERFORMANCE

T CollectiveIcehouse 2528 Nicollet Ave. S., Minneapolis21-plus9:30 p.m.21-plusNo cover

T Collective is an improvised music group consisting of many names and faces of the twin cities music scene.

Aesthetically It! is a list of picks from the editors of Aesthetically Speaking. Aesthetically It! features venues, events, outings and more that are worthy of “It” status. If you have a venue, event or outing that you feel is “It” worthy, email us at [email protected]

May 25 - 31

_Les Exodus.jpgRhiannon Giddens .jpg

DJ FundraiserEPMD

Heiruspecs

Rachelle Ferrell

Sarah White and Alicia Steele

Walker Art CenterMini-golf

Bringingthe world stage to children

for 15 yearsfor 15 yeyy ars

Festival Presented by ORDWAY

Children’sInternationalFLINT HILLS 2O15

$5 INDOOR SHOWS FREE OUTDOOR FESTIVITIESRIDE FREE to the festival

MAY 30–31

651.224.4222 ordway.org

THE UGLY DUCKLING & THE TORTOISE AND THE HARE

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Insight News ::: 05. 25.15