Insight News ::: 1.3.11

January 3 - January 9, 2011 • MN Metro Vol. 37 No. 1 • The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • www.insightnews.com

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AestheticsThe real cost of abandoning the arts

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CommentaryQuiet times

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EducationEmpowerment in Kenya

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LifestyleThe secrets of the skinny

The Dakota Confl ict & Reconciliation Ride

The President and the General

Many years ago I had the privilege of working for a decade in a lovely college library situated on a Mankato hilltop overlooking the usually tranquil valley of the Minnesota River. Each day I thought about the view, the beauty and the fact that this was the site from which locals had once observed the travesty in which 38 Dakota Indians were hanged. If my memory lapsed all I had to do was go to the Blue Earth County Historical Museum to ponder

the thoroughly disgusting depiction of this dark moment in Minnesota history. Though I thought about the horror every day, what I did not do was delve into the stories and the pain, probably because I didn’t want to deal with the reality of history. Times and I have changed. This year’s Dakota Reconciliation Ride has created a thirst to know more. At the same time, the parallel documentary, Dakota 38, inspires me to explore the story that has eluded me at the same time it has remained

so painfully real to the Dakota people for nearly 150 years. Recognition of reality inevitably leads to research. A simple google search disclosed the offi cial updated site for the Dakota 38 Memorial Ride. The site does an excellent job recalling the Ride for Healing and Unity and offers a powerful incentive to explore both the tragedy and the powerful efforts to heal the wounds that have affl icted the Dakota people for generations. Local media have covered the ride with some diligence – though South Dakota seems to be far

more attuned to the event and to the history of the Dakota War itself. One challenge faced by the media, historians and anyone who studies the topic is the political correctness surrounding the naming of the confl ict – it is known at times as the Sioux Massacre, or the Sioux Uprising, the Dakota Confl ict, the Sioux Rebellion, the U.S.-Dakota Confl ict of 1862, or the Dakota War. Today a commonly used term is “Reconciliation”. In her thoughtful post on the subject,

By Yussuf J. SimmondsSpecial to the NNPA from the Los Angeles Sentinel

In 2008, when candidate Barack Obama (a Democrat) was running for president, former Secretary of State, General Colin Powell (a Republican) openly supported him, saying on national television, “I have especially watched over the last six or seven weeks as both of them (Obama and candidate John McCain) have really taken a fi nal exam with respect to this economic crisis that we are in and coming out of conventions. And I must say that I’ve gotten a good measure of both.” Powell then went on to endorse candidate Obama. That was a bold move. Now, after almost two years in offi ce, President Obama has recently reached out to Powell. They met at the White House and the President issued the following statement after the meeting: “I want to thank General Colin Powell for being here with me today. He is not only a great statesman and a great public servant, but also a great friend and a great counselor. And, periodically I check in with him, and I know my entire team, including the Vice President, checks in with him, because he continues to

have an unparalleled sense of our national security needs, and I think really that he taps into the best impulses of the American people.” The force of Powell’s endorsement crossing over party lines was a powerful signal for many who were still “on the fence” relative to the neophyte senator’s candidacy.

Charles HaynesFormer Secretary of State,

General Colin Powell

Liz RatcliffA Ride for Healing and Unity a 330 mile ride that began Dec. 10th in Lower Brule, SD fi nished up in Mankato MN on Dec. 26th.

POWELL TURN TO 4DAKOTA TURN TO 2

“Watches? Check. Sunglasses? Check. Ipad fully charged? Check. Flight booked? Check. Fabulousness? Always.” The rehearsal of packing mayhem occurs every week for Michael Cole Smith and Jamil Smith Cole, who live two very distinctly different lives as residents of both Minneapolis, MN and Atlanta, GA. If you’re a friend or a client of the famed hairstylists/power couple, then every week, you mentally go on a journey with them, from one region of the United States to the other; a dual life that came unexpected in their master plan, but one that offers adventure and limitless promise, like only these two famed

celebrities could handle. Smith and Cole, harnessed the world’s attention last year, when their celebration of love and independence blossomed into what could be considered one of the greatest weddings of the century- an elaborate engagement with all the trimmings of a heterosexual ceremony, yet instead of a man and woman at the alter, two grooms adjoined their hearts in front of a hall full of friends and family. Insight News paid homage to the event by showcasing their story on the front page of the paper, yielding to its magic, meaning, and the promise it has given to a world of GLBT members who have found strength and inspiration in Smith and Cole’s journey,

The NOH8 Campaign is a photographic silent protest created by celebrity photographer Adam Bouska (http://

www.bouska.net) and partner Jeff Parshley in direct response to the passage of Proposition 8. Photos feature

subjects with duct tape over their mouths, symbolizing their voices being silenced by Prop 8 and similar

legislation around the world, with “NOH8” painted on one cheek in protest.

Michael Cole Smith and Jamil Smith Cole

Hate

SMITH & COLE TURN TO 9

By Alaina L. LewisContributing Writer

By Mary Treacy

Happy New Year!With gratitude and appreciation, the Insight News family thanks its loyal readers for the continued support. We look forward to providing you with 52 more weeks of information, inspiration and instruction in 2011.

INSIGHT NEWSINSIGHT NEWS

insightnews.com Insight News • January 3 - January 9, 2011 • Page 3

Immigration reform: Refl ections on the DREAM act

In 1960, African American students staged instrumental sit-ins against racial segregation, igniting a movement that eventually led to the Civil Rights Act of 1964. In 1968, students of the Chicano movement organized protests and walkouts in response to unequal conditions in public schools and cultivated leaders who (re)inserted Mexican American perspectives into US history. These days, hundreds of thousands of DREAMers carry on such traditions, taking risks as they fi ght against dehumanization and push for fair access to opportunities in the country many wish to call home. On Saturday, Dec. 18, 2010, the DREAM Act nearly passed in the Senate, 55-41, just fi ve votes short of the 60 needed to move forward with

the bill that would benefi t our families and communities by unblocking the road to higher education for up to 2.1 million young people and recognizing that our immigration system discriminates against some of the most brilliant students in America. At Minnesota Immigrant Freedom Network (MIFN) we worked hard to support our student organizers who

made history by pushing the DREAM through the House of Representatives and into public dialogue across the country. These dedicated students took the lead to keep the bill alive, and thanks to them we know it is only a matter of time until our dreams are realized. As one DREAMer put it, “We’ve been working on this for nearly ten years; it’s not going to go away.”

In addition, a coalition of Minnesotan faith groups, community organizations, and many individuals -- including MIFN Board Member John Gutterman (Church World Service) and Associate Director Alondra Espejel – organized across state lines to successfully gain votes from key senators in North Dakota and Alaska. On the national scale,

our relationship with United We Dream was vital for synchronizing our actions and efforts with the movement in Washington D.C. We also thank our two senators in Minnesota, Amy Klobuchar and Al Franken, who demonstrated their strong support as co-sponsors of the DREAM. We know this fi ght has been hard for families and students, but we also know that we are

moving in the right direction. We will continue to work together with students, allies, and the national network to evaluate and strategize about the next steps. Right now it is a good time to rest and relax. Share love and happiness with family, friends and our communities. As long as we are connected we know we have the power to change.

By Minnesota Immigrant Freedom Network

INSIGHT NEWSwww.insightnews.com

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

Editor-In-ChiefAl McFarlane

CFOAdrianne Hamilton-Butler

Publisher Batala-Ra McFarlane

Associate Editor & Associate PublisherB.P. Ford

Vice President of Sales & MarketingSelene White

Director of Content & ProductionPatricia Weaver

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Production InternAndrew Notsch

Distribution/Facilities ManagerJamal Mohamed

Facilities Support / Assistant Producer, Conversations with Al McFarlaneBobby Rankin

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Technology ReportersShanice BrownIvan B. PhiferChristopher Toliver

Contributing WritersMaya BeechamBrenda ColstonJulie DesmondS. HimieMarcia HumphreyAlaina L. LewisRashida McKenzieRyan T. ScottLydia SchwartzStacey Taylor

Photography Suluki FardanTobechi Tobechukwu

Contact Us:Insight News, Inc.Marcus Garvey House1815 Bryant Ave. N.Minneapolis., MN 55411Ph.: (612) 588-1313Fax: (612) 588-2031Member: Minnesota Multicultural Media Consortium (MMMC), Midwest Black Publishers Coalition, Inc. (MBPCI), National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA)

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insightnews.com Insight News • January 3 - January 9, 2011 • Page 5

AESTHETICSThe real cost of abandoning the arts

Due to nationwide budget cuts, music education programs are being eliminated from school curricula nationwide at a rapid pace. However, many concerned individuals, including Los Angeles Philharmonic conductor Gustavo Dudamel, are adamant about ensuring that kids continue to be exposed to the enriching world of music. The fourth installment of TAVIS SMILEY REPORTS, “Gustavo Dudamel: Conducting a Life,” profi les the young conductor and asks the question: What price will the country pay for abandoning music education for our children? Here, Tavis talks about his inspirational, primetime special which premiered Wednesday, December 29th.

Kam Williams: Hey, Tavis? How are you?Tavis Smiley: I’m doin’ the best I can. I’m headed to my momma’s house with my dear brother Tom for a couple days. How about you?

KW: Everything’s great. First, let me congratulate you on your upcoming 20th anniversary in broadcasting.

TS: Thanks.

KW: I really enjoyed watching this primetime special. What inspired you to devote the show to Dudamel and his mission to preserve music programs in schools? TS: Dudamel is obviously a rock star in the world of classical music. But for me, he’s also a way of opening up a broader conversation about the price we are ultimately going to pay, as a country, for abandoning music education in our schools. Every study ever done underscores the value of music education to young children, and the benefi ts that come from being exposed to music early on. And yet, one of the fi rst things on the chopping block, when we talk about public education, is the music programs. I just think that, long term, there’s a heavy price we’re going to pay for abandoning music education. Dudamel is also passionate about this, because as a child he benefi tted from a publicly-fi nanced music program, called El Sistema, in his native Venezuela ; this is precisely the type of program we need in this country. So, there’s no downside to doing a piece about Dudamel who Quincy Jones referred to as “The Next Leonard Bernstein.” When Quincy calls you “The Next Leonard Bernstein,” that’s huge. In sum, Dudamel is deserving of a special in his own right as a great classical conductor, but he can also serve as a segue to the larger issue

we wanted to address, namely, what’s happening to music education in this country.

KW: Wesley Derbyshire says: I am on your side. We certainly need this. How do you think America can move away from a predominant focus on sports and provide equal funding for music and the arts? And what is the cost to society, in the long run, of eliminating funding for music and the arts?TS: Let me answer the second part of Wesley’s question fi rst. The cost, long-term, is too high. What we’re abandoning is the one part of the school day devoted to encouraging kids to be creative, to think outside of the box, and to connect with their emotions. I believe that any generation that doesn’t embrace music will be a lost generation. As far as what can be done about it, that’s what the special is all about. Dudamel has a very ambitious plan to replicate the El Sistema program that he is a product of in big cities and small towns all across the United States. I think it starts, at a rudimentary level, with putting music back in the classroom. That’s the least we can do as a starting point. KW: Wesley has a follow-up. He says: It concerns me that the focus of your special seems to be classical music; but when I think of the age and maturity level of a typical student, I know that in most cases they aren’t going to jump on the classical bandwagon before the music they hear

on the radio. How can the program you’re recommending address this? TS: That’s a very good question. One of the greatest artists ever, Stevie Wonder, was listening to classical music and playing jazz, like John Coltrane, when he was 13. I’m always amazed at how many artists in all sorts of genres started out taking piano lessons and playing classical. But I do understand Wesley’s concern, and I even asked Dudamel in the special: “How do you get young folk interested in Beethoven and Brahms, when they’d rather listen to Beyonce’?” His response was basically that it doesn’t have to be either/or. It can be both/and. They don’t have to choose Beyonce’ over Brahms or vice-versa. The kids should be exposed to both.

KW: Children’s book author Irene Smalls says: The music education of El Sistema focuses on classic European music for the most part. What about the music of indigenous peoples? TS: The short answer is: I think there’s room for everything. Dudamel himself is an advocate of exposing the kids to everything. But the reality is that at the moment they’re being exposed to nothing.

KW: Irene has a follow-up: Should music education also include music business education given the history of artists of color signing bad contracts and getting ripped-off?TS: Yes. I think that as people get deeper into the music, especially if they’re contemplating a career in music, they certainly should

be taught about those business issues. That being said, there is still so much music has to offer, whether or not we ever go into the music business.

KW: Harriet Pakula Teweles asks: Since our country does not have the kind of state system we see in “Mao’s Last Dancer,” a bio-pic set in China where children are recruited at an early age and trained at state expense, how can we fi nd our talented young artists, especially among the youth whose parents can’t afford private lessons?TS: As you know, in this special, we profi le a school in Boston where students get music education along with the regular curriculum. Their school day is a little longer,

By Kam [email protected]

Interview

TS Media, Inc.Tavis Smiley (left) walking with Gustavo Dudamel

SMILEY TURN TO 6

insightnews.com Insight News • January 3 - January 9, 2011 • Page 7

COMMENTARYQuiet times

Hunger increases across America

A snowstorm has blanketed the east coast, causing fl ight cancellations and disrupted holiday plans. The President is vacationing in Hawaii after a grueling lame duck session in Washington. During this the last week of the year, there will be no economic indicator issues. These are quiet times. I received an email from a friend of a friend, one of those forwarded things that I swear not to forward on, even though I am threatened with gloom, doom, and decades of bad luck if I fail to spread the word. This electronic version of a chain letter leaves much to be desired until I read to the bottom line that says, “January 1, 2011 can be written as 1-1-11. How much more confi rmation do you need to do things differently.” Something to think about but different does

not mean polluting cyberspace with more junk e-mail. Actually, this quiet time is time to savor, to enjoy, to replenish, to refresh, and to get ready for those challenges that will surely come with this New Year. From a policy perspective, many of the challenges have to do with the many ways that the now-dominant Congressional Republicans will attempt to chip away at gains that were made in the last congressional session, including gains in health care. We can say what we will about the timing of health care reform, but the fact is that it is the most progressive economic reform we have seen since the FDR era. It will take tremendous fortitude on the part of Democrats to hold the line on this legislation. Already, people are gearing up for the presidential race in 2012. Will she or won’t she? Sarah Palin should, perhaps, take former First Lady Barbara Bush’s advice and high tail it back to Alaska. For all of her supposed popularity, Palin’s second book has been a non-starter, and although she is said to “study” foreign affairs and other matters, there is that

Biblical verse about the sow’s ear and the silk purse. Palin is entertainment, and that’s about it. Mississippi governor Haley Barbour had presidential ambitions but he cannot seem to stop defending the Klan, White Citizen’s Councils, and other racist groups. His fealty to foolishness may play well south of the Mason-Dixon line, but the South is not likely to rise again on this one. So who is left for the Republicans, Mitt Romney? Mike Huckabee? The pickings are pretty slim, though I am prepared to be surprised in 2011. For all the talk of President Obama’s one-term presidency, if the economy turns around, he will be diffi cult to beat in 2012. Is the U.S. economy turning around? Unemployment rates remain high, but unemployment is a lagging indicator of economic success. The stock market is doing better than expected, and other indicators seem to suggest that we are on the mend. There is some fear of a “double dip” recession -- recovery not getting enough traction, indicators heading south again, and it is troubling that we cannot expect unemployment

rates to drop to 6 or 7 percent until around 2014. President Obama will need to accelerate plans to lower unemployment. He will need an unemployment rate closer to 8 percent to win in 2012. Camus once wrote, “Without work all life is rotten”. He was speaking more spiritually than economically, refl ecting on our search for meaning, signifi cance, and passion in our lives. Work

generally consumes at least a third of our day, gets us up in the morning, and makes our chest poke out when we answer the question “what do you do”. Work supports and sustains us, pays our bills, puts food on the table and all that good stuff. The need for meaningful employment is one of our most basic needs, one that government must address with industrial policy and job creation efforts.

What will our nation look like in 20 years? What kinds of jobs will we have? What kind of training will people need for those jobs? Are we prepared to compete with the rest of the world, especially with China? A snowstorm has blanketed the east coast and there are just a few more days left in 2010. These are quiet times, fi lled with contemplation and possibilities for new beginnings.

Reports that corporations that received federal bailout dollars

are doing better, even making a profi t, gives many economists a reason to smile. Unfortunately, that corporate cheer isn’t trickling down to the average American, many of whom still struggle to make ends meet. This isn’t about paying bills. Rather, many Americans aren’t getting their most basic need met: the need for food. Data released by The U.S. Conference of Mayors shows

that the nation’s food banks saw a 24-percent increase in visits. And, nearly 43 million Americans – a record - were using food stamps this past fall. The reality of our economy – and the effect it has had our citizens – is sobering. 56-percent of those seeking help getting food were families, while 19-percent were seniors. Before you think that only the poorest of the poor arestruggling with hunger, consider

this: 30-percent of those in need of help are employed. We hear elected offi cials talk more and more about reducing our nation’s debt. Unfortunately, many want to reduce it by hurting the poor. They believe that cutting aid to heavily funded government programs - Social Security, Medicaid, and Medicare, three programs that support the poor, among them – is the only way to bring down

the nation’s debt. While this approach may seem logical, it’s not the correct one. And, the news from the Conference of Mayors confi rms that. With unemployment holding at nearly 10 percent, more Americans are slipping into poverty. Now, more than ever, the poor need the government to support, not reduce, the services available. The safety net that is supposed to cradle the needy

during diffi cult times must not only be preserved, it must be extended. As we enter a New Year, it’s time that America gets its priorities in check. Of course, we must continue to strengthen those industries that drive our economy. But, more importantly, we must also hold up those individuals and families that make up the fabric of our nation.

Opinion

By Julianne MalveauxNNPA Columnist

To Be Equal

By Judge Greg Mathis

stock.xchng / Colin Brough

Page 8 • January 3 - January 9, 2011 • Insight News insightnews.com

LIFESTYLEThe secrets of the skinny

It’s the beginning of a new year, which is usually the time when we resolve to be different than we were the previous year. We often make grand plans to accomplish lofty goals, and then unrealistically expect to accomplish them all within a month. (Not!) This year I’d like to suggest that you consider the following: slow and steady wins the race. That philosophy can apply to nearly everything on your list of resolutions. If you set realistic goals as part of your lifestyle, you can have positive, lasting results. Speaking of lasting results, many people start the New Year

off with the goal of shedding those extra, unwanted pounds and keeping them off. I, along with two girlfriends, have decided to be accountability partners in our shared goal of sustained fi tness. Our agreement includes weekly weigh-ins and fi nes for weight gain. In addition, to give me an extra edge (don’t tell my girlfriends), I have signed up for the Special K Challenge www.specialk.com , a helpful and customizable weight management plan (it’s also one of my favorite cereals). If you are among those who want sustained weight-loss results, consider following the top secrets of skinny folks and start doing what they do. Their strategies focus on consistent, steady habits that yield winning results. Interested in joining us?

Eat At Home. You know it’s true; the more you eat out at restaurants, the more weight you gain. Thin folks usually eat out about 2 times per week. Keep

the temptation to a minimum by stocking up on healthy frozen meals-either that you have previously made or ready-made from the store. Another option is to make half of the meal takeout. For a lightning fast dinner, pick-up chicken from your favorite take-out spot and chop it over a premixed bag of salad (easy on the dressing). Yum!

Eat Smaller Portions. You do not, I repeat, you do not have to clean your plate every time, no matter where you are eating. At a restaurant, ask the waiter to serve only half of your meal, and request that the other half go in a doggy bag.

Eat Whole Grains. Whole grains are more nutritious and more fi lling than white bread, white rice, and other refi ned foods. Try couscous if you never have, and for a delicious snack, pop your own popcorn.

Eat Your Fruits and Veggies.

Most skinny people eat fi ve or more servings of fruits and vegetables at least fi ve times a week. If your fresh produce usually wilts before you eat it, buy it frozen and sneak it into your meal. A mixture of frozen fruits makes outstanding smoothies and spinach or carrots in your pasta sauce are delicious and nutritious.

Get Moving. Consider joining a gym if your budget allows. If not,

move at home; exercise along with the cable fi tness channel, borrow various exercise videos from the library, grab your child’s hula-hoop, or dance your way skinny. To get started, set the timer and do ten-minute intervals.

Get Your Sleep. Studies show people who get only about four hours of sleep per night, tend to

have nearly a 25% increase in appetite. Sleepless nights often lead to stressful days, which can trigger binge eating. Need help falling asleep? Try these natural relaxers: a tablespoon of honey, a bowl of oatmeal, or a handful of almonds. Avoid the foods that can keep you tossing and turning, such as spicy foods, alcohol, and milk chocolate (dark chocolate is fi ne). Slow and steady wins the race. Challenge yourself this year to consider the wisdom in those simple words. Focus more on the steady-keep moving, keep making wise choices, keep progressing-and you will surely be a winner. Happy New Year and God Bless You. Enjoy!

Marcia Humphrey is an interior decorator and home stager who specializes in achieving high style at low costs. A native of Michigan, she and her husband, Lonnie, have three children.

By Marcia [email protected]

Style on a Dime

sxc.hu / anissatTry couscous if you never have

insightnews.com Insight News • January 3 - January 9, 2011 • Page 9

and hope to one day have the chance to freely express their hearts and desires without fear, limits and borders. Yet like defacing an artistic masterpiece, what should have been a sacred day wrapped in joy and commitment, was a moment that was quickly thrown to the wolves when their wedding photos become fodder for the negativity of the web community. One single email containing wedding pictures of Michael Cole Smith- “the one with the hair,” as he has been referred to, and his equally handsome groom, Jamil Smith Cole, went viral in a matter of seconds, receiving both harsh criticism, and applause. Making its way from here in the United States, to all over Europe, Africa and Asia, the email took to the same weathered and prolonged journey of a $20 bill, except unlike currency, their union never lost its value. “I knew we weren’t the fi rst ones to get married like this, but I knew we made an impact when the emails started pouring in. There were people on the verge of suicide who saw hope who wrote to us,” Michael Cole Smith said. “There were people who felt that [a union like ours] was unattainable, but through Jamil and me, they now see that it is possible, and they have a renewed hope of one day fi nding their soul mate and being able to have an actual ceremony.”

Sure, there were “haters,” but Smith and Cole knew to draw strength from their enemies. What the backlash didn’t do to their union, is create turbulence in their sturdy and infrangible relationship. They didn’t even bat an eyelash, rather they saw it as an opportunity to become leaders in their strife, challenging the world to stop spreading hate, and allow love to be an unbridled adventure, just like theirs. “We were recognized everywhere we went. Everyone had gotten that email with the stolen photos,” Smith remembers. “To this day, the email is still circling the globe and I think it will forever.” Seeing their celebrity rise, Smith and Cole packed up their lives here in Minnesota, closing down their famed Talk of the Town hair salon, and went south to Atlanta, GA –where they met and began their journey. In Atlanta, their names were already hotter than candle wax, yet their fame and demand

was known world round which garnered them an opportunity to tour the country sharing their story and encouraging others, with the aid of their power publicist, the incomparable Bianca Holmes of MaXXposure Marketing Group, LLC. “Bianca spearheaded this whole campaign,” Smith recalled. “It hit the ground running at full speed, and before we knew it, we were a household name. That woman is incredible.” For them, Atlanta was not only a new beginning, but it was also an opportunity to make something daring and exciting happen for themselves that isn’t as easily attainable here in Minnesota: a career in entertainment. Hoping to become TV’s next reality stars with a show unoffi cially titled, “The Smitty Boyz,” Smith and Cole submerged themselves in the Hollywood lifestyle. The two set up shop at The J Spot Salon and quickly began growing their clientele.

They found themselves basking in fabulosity; schmoozing with such celebrities as the ladies of “The Real Housewives of Atlanta,” Keyshia Cole, Lisa Raye, and Bobby Brown, whilst also lucking upon roles in music videos and feature fi lms, one of which was “For Colored Girls,”

by their Atlanta neighbor Tyler Perry. Unfortunately, the struggles of the Hollywood lifestyle didn’t miss their doorstep. Apart from the fl ashing lights and wide-angled lenses, Smith and Cole found themselves being victimized by a vulture-esque community of longwinded producers whose interest in them was more about money, than celebrating the story of two African American men, who are in healthy, loving relationship, are raising their daughter and who are entrepreneurs. “We kept hitting road blocks because although people believed in our story, they kept seeing dollars signs,” Smith said. “How I present myself --the clothes, the jewelry, the car-- has nothing to do with my bank account. It became less about the story, and more about how much money I could line in someone’s pockets. That’s not what Jamil and I are in this for. We’re trying to do our part to change the marriage reform bill, and change lives. The cause is too important.” Although their reality

series is currently in a holding stage, they don’t consider this a setback, rather an opportunity to repave their road, and make the second journey through Hollywood even better and brighter and with a heavier impact. Smith and Cole are back in Minnesota part-time and back in business, reopening the Talk of the Town Salon, and rebuilding their client list while connecting once again with their many amazing friendships. TOTT is now located in the middle of the bustling city, taking up residence on Lake Street and Grand Avenue in South Minneapolis inside of Agatha’s Hair Salon, where they are fi nding comfort re-imagining their next venture. One thing that Michael Cole Smith, and Jamil Smith Cole have that many can only wish to garner, is their fearless hearts, and the ability to go after life with no apology for wanting more. Be on the lookout for their story to keep growing by the stroke of each season, and by the admission of every storm.

Smith & ColeFrom 1

Rich Peterson of 13TwentyThree Photography

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Edward Green’s new composition, “Once Upon A Time” will be premiered in two free concerts by the Minnesota Sinfonia this January. Edward Green is an award-winning composer and educator currently teaching at the Manhattan School of Music. His compositions include works for chamber ensembles, chorus, and symphony orchestra, as well as solo music for piano, guitar, and other instruments. He is also an active composer for theater and fi lm, and is staff composer for Imagery Films and Emmy award-winning fi lmmaker Ken Kimmelman. His Concertino for Piano and Chamber Orchestra was nominated for a 2010 Grammy Award in the category “Best Classical Contemporary Composition.” More

information is available at www.edgreenmusic.org. Minnesota Sinfonia soloist Gary Levinson performing Vieuxtemp’s Concerto No. 5 for Violin with the Minnesota Sinfonia. Concerts will be held 7 p.m. Friday, January 7 at Metropolitan State University’s Founders Hall at Maria Ave and East 6th Street in St. Paul, and 4 p.m. Sunday, January 9 at Temple Israel, 2324 Emerson Ave S, Minneapolis. Admission is free and children are welcome to attend. Audience members should arrive early-all concerts are fi rst-come, fi rst-seated.Additional Minnesota Sinfonia concert information is available at 612-871-1701 or www.mnsinfonia.org.

Send Community Calendar information to us by: email, [email protected], by fax: 612-588-2031, by phone: (612) 588-1313 or by mail: 1815 Bryant Ave. N. Minneapolis, MN 55411, Attn: Andrew Notsch. Free or low cost events preferred.

EventsPre-K-8 School Information Fair - Jan 8 — Families can learn about the school options available in their attendance zone and citywide. In particular, families with children entering pre-kindergarten, kindergarten or moving on to middle school for the 2011-12 school year are strongly encouraged to attend. Teachers and staff from schools and departments will be available to answer questions and assist families with their school choice options. Sat., Jan. 8, 9am-2pm at Hyatt Regency Hotel 1300 Nicollet Mall, Mpls.

Minnesota Sigmas Founder’s Day Celebration! - Jan. 8 — On Sat. Jan. 8, 6-9pm Phi Beta Sigma - Minnesota will celebrate the founding of this fraternity which upholds the principles of Brotherhood Service and Scholarship! This year’s theme is Empowerment Through Development with a focus on Bigger and Better Business. Location: Edinburgh USA - Sutherland Banquet Room 8700 Edinbrook Crossing Brooklyn Park, MN 55443. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit: www.PhiBetaSigmaMN.com

RAMSA to Host Math Triathlon - Jan. 8 — There will be over 15+ math related games and cookie rally stations appropriate for K-12 students. We will have lots of treats, prizes and giveaways! Girl Scouts - display your GS membership (vest, pin, shirt, etc.) and sample cookies for product promotion. Girl Scouts will also have the opportunity to earn their ‘Math Whiz’ fun patch! Sat. Jan 8 3-5pm at Richard Allen Math & Science Academy 5140 N. Fremont Ave. Mpls, MN 55430 REGISTRATION ENDS Mon, Jan 3rd! Don’t miss this family fun event!!! To register visit: https://sites.google.com/site/camdenwirthoaks/announcements-1

Delta Days at the Minnesota State Capitol - Jan 13 — Connect with our elected offi cials about issues that impact us and the persons in the communities that we serve. Thurs, Jan. 13 8:45am-3pm. at 75. Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. St. Paul. MN 55155.

American Muslim - Life of Islamic Women in the Midwest - Jan 13 — Speaker: Imani Jaafar-Mohammad. She will present an informal program on what it is like to grow up as a Muslim woman in this Midwest area. What changed after 9/11? What issues may exist for women who are among the more recent immigrants to Minnesota? Thur. Jan 13 7pm. Parish Community of St. Joseph 8701 - 36th Ave N, New Hope.

Volunteer for an MLK Day of Service - Jan 15 —

Volunteer for MCTC’s 3rd Annual MLK Day of Service in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on Jan. 15. Come for breakfast and then serve organizations in the community. Check-in and breakfast, Minneapolis Community and Technical College Cafeteria: 7:30 - 8:15 a.m. Program 8:15 - 9 a.m. Volunteering: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. in the community and at MCTC. To register, contact Dan Brasch at 612-659-6315, or [email protected]. RSVP by Tuesday, Jan. 11 to assure your spot. More information at http://www.minneapolis.edu/MLKDayofService2011/.

Perspectives: Quarterly Breakfast Forum on Children and their Relative Caregivers - Jan 18 — The Minnesota Kinship Caregivers Association (MKCA) invites relative caregivers of children and professionals to attend a free breakfast forum Jan. 18 featuring Deborah Beske Brown, a foster care program consultant with more than 25 years of experience in child welfare services. Tue. Jan 18 7:30-9am, in Salon A, at the Hotel Minneapolis, 215 S. 4th St., Mpls. Registration is requested before Jan. 7.

Avenues for Homeless Youth - Jan 18 & 20 — On any given night in Minnesota, there are approximately 200 GLBT youth who are homeless. As volunteers of the program, adults open their homes and their hearts to young people who need and are looking for a healthy and nurturing connection. If you are interested in hearing more about this community building program, please come to one of the following informational meetings: Tue., Jan. 18, 6-8pm @ Common Roots Cafe 2558 Lyndale Ave. S. Mpls or Thur., Jan. 20, 6-8pm @ Midtown YWCA 2121 E. Lake St. Mpls.

Tapestry of Dreams - Jan 23 — On Sun., Jan. 23, 4-6pm, the University of Minnesota will host “Tapestry of Dreams,” the 30th anniversary production of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Concert at the University’s Ted Mann Concert Hall (2128 4th Street South, Minneapolis, MN 55455, U of M West Bank campus).

Second Chance Day on the Hill 2011 - Jan 26 — Second Chance Day on the Hill at the Minnesota State Capitol on Wed., Jan. 26 at 10am. A criminal record doesn’t have to be a life sentence. Let’s offer individuals a second chance.

Page 10 • January 3, 2010 - January 9, 2011 • Insight News insightnews.com

Community PHONE: 612.588.1313 FAX: 612.588.2031 EMAIL: [email protected]

Hallie Q. Brown Community Center

Substitute TeacherDEPT: Early Learning CenterSUPERVISED BY: Youth Program ManagerTITLES SUPERVISED: N/AFLSA: Non-ExemptSALARY GRADE: $10-13/hour

POSITION SUMMARY: This is a substitute position designed to fi ll in as needed on a short or long term basis for permanent teaching staff. Substitute Teacher par-ticipates in long and short range activities for students in accordance with curriculum objectives and engages students in developmentally appropriate activities. Assists with ensuring that the classroom is ap-propriately staffed and maintained to provide a safe and secure envi-ronment for each child.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:1. Works with teaching staff to implement program curriculum and coordinate students activities.2. Plans and supervises the arrangement of the classroom envi-ronment in accordance to program goals and philosophy.3. Maintains a safe and healthy environment, including safely man-aging developmental activities for the participants.4. Keeps all appropriate records such as records, attendance, time sheets and accident reports.5. Maintains open communication with parents/guardians of the program participants regarding the developmental needs of the participants.

QUALIFICATIONS: Education: Associates degree or equivalent in early childhood devel-opment. B.S. in Early childhood Development preferred.

Licensing and Certifi cations: CPR and Meet all applicable licensing regulations. Valid Driver’s License and proof of insurance. Minne-sota Teachers’ License (preferred).

Work Experience: 5 years of Child Care Center or related experi-ence required.

Other Requirements:• Dealing with confi dential information.• Tight deadlines.• Dealing with unfavorable weather conditions.• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.• Ability to work effectively with employees, colleagues and manager.• Agree to mandated child abuse reporting guidelines.• Ability to relate to children from diverse socio-economic and cul-tural backgrounds.

To apply, send a cover letter, resume, salary requirements and refer-ences to:

Hallie Q. Brown Community CenterATTN: Human Resources270 N. Kent StreetSaint Paul, MN [email protected]

Soloist Gary Levinson

CM/ECF AnalystThe Clerk’s Offi ce of the U.S. District Court of Minnesota is seeking a CM/ECF Analyst to be located in the Clerk’s Offi ce in Minneapo-lis. The incumbent is the project manager of the court’s electronic case management system (CM/ECF) team and is responsible for ensuring the effi cient use and effective integration of CM/ECF within all court operations. CM/ECF is an Informix database web application providing access to case information and documents.Qualifi cations: Applicants should have a combination of excel-lent technical skills/experience, as well as skill in managing proj-ects. Technical skills include: experience with web applications and relational databases; ability to create, analyze, and maintain database tables and records; thorough knowledge of statistical/analytical methods; experience in providing support and commu-nicating with end-users on complex operations and technical is-sues; ability to develop and deliver professional presentations and make recommendations to court management. Excellent oral and written communication skills are required. Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience is preferred. Court operations experience preferred. Future regular and promotional vacancies may be fi lled by internal or temporary employees. Starting salary - $48,663 to $60,827. Position range to $79,073. For a complete job descrip-tion please visit our web site at: www.mnd.uscourts.gov. Submit cover letter and resume by 5 PM on Monday, January 17th, to HR Manager, U.S. District Court, 202 U.S. Courthouse, 300 S. 4th St., Minneapolis, MN 55415. E-mail: [email protected]. Applicant must be a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident seeking U.S. citizenship. Noncitizens must execute an affi davit indicating their intent to apply for citizenship when they become eligible to do so. All employees are subject to a background check. An Equal Opportunity Employer.

Composition by Edward GreenComposer Edward Green

The MN Sinfonia Orchestra playing at Temple Israel

Photos courtesy of MN Sinfonia

insightnews.com Insight News • January 3 - January 9, 2011 • Page 11

Head Coach Frazier shows a steady hand

When Barack Obama was a presidential candidate, my reasoning for supporting him was his demeanor. Things in the country were extremely volatile in 2007 – 2008, and it seemed to me that the best solution for that situation was to have someone in Offi ce that doesn’t act impetuously. NFL head coaches Josh McDaniels (Denver Broncos 2009-2010), Mike Shanahan (Denver Broncos, preceded McDaniels), and of course Brad Childress (Minnesota Vikings), led the league in drama this year, and their paths were full of impetuous decisions. McDaniels has already been fi red by the Denver Broncos after only his second year of coaching. Shanahan seems to have an uphill climb ahead of him with the Washington Redskins because players will

no longer sell out for him after the questionable, impetuous, handling of Donovan McNabb and Albert Haynesworth. As I suggested with Childress a few months ago, Management 101 may be necessary for some of these coaches to dig how things work in today’s labor market. There is certainly a place for hard nosed coaches in the NFL, but the power of the players has risen over the years

as the money making marketing schemes have multiplied – I’m sure Snuggie blankets with authentic jerseys and player names sewed to them is the next thing to come. Mike Singletary, recently-fi red head coach of the San Francisco 49ers, had to learn his lessons with his hard nosed demeanor towards players. It worked, but only to a

point. After that point Singletary learned to reel in some of his ironclad handling of the team. Unfortunately for Singletary he couldn’t get over the fact that his quarterbacks were only as good as the teams’ losing record suggested that they were. Leslie Frazier inherited some rough baggage with regards to the Vikings quarterback situation. As a matter of fact, Frazier inherited the biggest

package of quarterback drama ever seen at the position in the form of Brett Favre. There was many an opportunity for Frazier to pull out a “stamp my name on it” type strategy to handle things, but Frazier has simply allowed the team to properly decompress from this tumultuous season, while properly managing a steady fi nish to the season, and allowing for good evaluations for next season. While that is a short list of duties, it takes the very best in management abilities to successfully surf the whole situation for the Vikings. With Frazier, the transition after Childress has been seamless. The most important evaluation for the Vikings future comes with regard to the quarterback position. Quarterback Joe Webb has over delivered on his undersold ability. There has been a quiet buzz from all those who fi rst peeped Webb at training camp, but the Vikings have been successful in not trumping up hopes for his future --the difference in approach for Webb versus Tarvaris Jackson is noteworthy. It will take a steady hand at the helm to keep the potential growth of Webb as the starting quarterback undersold. Managing success is generally the more diffi cult prospect for a player such as

Webb, but he seems to have that genuine good ol’ country boy brand of leadership to compliment his Michael Vick-like physical ability. Webb’s athletic and quarterbacking gifts seem well suited to be managed by Frazier. For some reason I still can’t get past the thought of Brett Favre being around next year. Considering that the Vikings were ultra-close to a Super Bowl bid in 2009, it’s plausible to believe that were Webb to seriously surprise in 2011, and a suffi cient number of the Vikings many free agents return, that the Vikings could be back in the Super Bowl hunt (the Atlanta Falcons had a

similar experience over the last few years and are now in the Super Bowl drivers seat). Some were surprised that the Vikings beat the Eagles so soundly (and killed Vick’s bid for MVP in the process), but the fact of the matter is that the Vikings are still one of the more talented teams in the league. The aforementioned free agency is the second biggest ticket after settling the quarterback situation for the Vikings. It is almost hard to count the number of free agents that the Vikings will need to expensively re-sign. Depending on the various free agents available from other teams, the Vikings could

actually come out better if they play their cards real cool; and if owner Zygi Wilf continues his Godfather-like sense of taking care of things with a few breadcrumbs. That overall team potential, and those Wilf brand breadcrumbs, just might lead Favre back to the team next year; get this, even if it means just being a back-up to Webb. How’s that for a safety net at quarterback? Frazier was the ideal safety net for head coach. The Vikings don’t need to suspend the campaign like McCain did in the 2008 Presidential Election. They just need to keep cool like Leslie Frazier and President Obama.

Mr. T’s Sports Report

By Ryan T. [email protected]

“Owner Wilf has a lot of bread crumbs

to break-off”

Minnesota VikingsLeslie Frazier

SCHOOL DROPOUTS

Progress made; challenges ahead

In the last decade, a coalition of public school educators, parents and civic activists across the country have charted substantial progress in deterring tens of thousands of students from dropping out of high school, according to a newly-published study. Among other things, the study showed there were 120,000 more high school graduates in 2008 than in 2001 (holding population constant) – a result fueled by overall graduation-rate increases in 29 states and signifi cant graduation-rate increases among African American, Latino American and Native American pupils. It also resulted in the closing of more than 200 “dropout factories” – high schools that fail to graduate 40 percent or more of their students, giving the 400,000 students who would have attended them a better chance to earn a diploma. These successes in pushing the national high school graduation rate from 72 percent in 2001 to 75 percent in 2008 show that the U.S. “is turning a corner on meeting the high school dropout epidemic,” write Colin and Alma Powell in introducing the report, Building a Grad Nation: Progress and Challenge in Ending the High School Dropout Epidemic.

The detailed, 88-page document is the latest in a series of studies from the Powells’ organization, America’s Promise Alliance, which has sought to build a broad-based coalition to eliminate the dropout crisis of American public high schools. Today, according to the report, more than a million public high school students, each year don’t graduate with the class in which they entered high school; many of them have dropped out. Taken together, nearly 40 percent of minority high school students don’t graduate with their entering Class. Earlier America’s Promise reports determined that while dropping out is a widespread phenomenon, the dropout epidemic is concentrated in a relatively small number of urban, suburban and rural high schools that over time have become dropout factories. A decade ago, they numbered about 2,000. Now, through strategies that ranged from transforming individual schools to closing individual schools, the report declares the number has been pared to 1,746. Nonetheless, the report warns that despite the successes, “the rate of progress over the last decade … is too slow to reach the national goal of having 90

percent of students graduate from high school and obtain at least one year of post-secondary schooling or training by 2020.” It goes on to match on a one-to-one basis the “progress” made since 2001 with the “challenges” in that area which remain to be overcome. For example, while 400,000 fewer pupils attend dropout factories, there are yet 2.2 million high school youth in the dropout factories that still exist. And, while the Class of 2008 graduated 120,000 more students than the Class of 2001, the Class of 2020 needs to graduate 600,000 more students than the Class of 2008 (holding population constant) in order to reach the goal of a 90-percent national graduation rate. The report concludes by noting that “while the results of the past decade have been mixed, with progress in some areas, and limited improvement in others, these efforts have laid the groundwork for more rapid and systematic progress in the next decade.” Those future initiatives, however, could be signifi cantly undermined by something the report does not discuss: the impact of budget defi cits at the federal, state, and local level on funds available for public school initiatives.

Special to the NNPA from TheDefendersOneline.com

stock.xchng / marygober

Page 12 • January 3 - January 9, 2011 • Insight News insightnews.com