April 15, 2021 - MN Spokesman-Recorder

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THE VOICE OF THE AFRICAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY SINCE 1934 April 15-21, 2021, Vol. 87 No. 37

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Brooklyn Center cop kills unarmed Black youth Claims gun mistaken for taser

By Mel Reeves Community Editor

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e was only 20 years old, and he didn’t deserve to be shot and killed like this,” said Katie Wright at a vigil for her son Daunte Wright, who was shot and killed by a Brooklyn Center police officer on Sunday, April 17. The shooting occurred at a time when tensions were already high as a result of the Derek Chauvin trial, presently being conducted in downtown Minneapolis. Chauvin killed George Floyd last Memorial Day. There is a sense in the Black community that he will not be convicted, which has further increased Kimberly Potter, left, and Daunte Wright Photo courtesy of MGN tensions. On Tuesday it was reported that the shooter, 26-year Brooklyn Center police resignation letter, Potter said that she the best interest of the community, the veteran Kim Potter, had resigned. In her thought resigning at this time was “in department, and my fellow officers.“

Activists and community members, including Nekima Levy Armstrong, Elizer Darris and Valerie Castile, continued to press the mayor to officially fire Potter, saying that her resigning was

nal Apprehension (BCA). At the Monday afternoon press conference Brooklyn Center Mayor Mike Elliott said he thinks the officer should be fired. Wright’s family has retained the ser-

“If ever there was ever a time when nobody should be killed by police, it is during this pinnacle trial of Derek Chauvin.” “an easy way out” and one that could potentially allow Potter to find another job as an officer elsewhere. They also noted that Potter did not apologize for the shooting in her resignation letter. Brooklyn Center Police Chief Tim Gannon has resigned as well. Brooklyn Center officials had said Potter had been placed on administrative leave pending an investigation by the Bureau of Crimi-

vices of attorney Ben Crump, the lawyer who represented the family of George Floyd in its wrongful death suit against the City of Minneapolis. The suit was settled last month for $27 million. At a press conference on Tuesday called by the Floyd family, the Wright family, and Families Supporting Families, an organization of families who have lost loved ones ■ See Wright on page 5

Chauvin defense relies on ‘excited delirium’

Medical Examiner’s cause of death challenged a number of medical experts. The defense began making its case on Tuesday and began to focus on their contention that George Floyd died as a The prosecution in the Derek Chauvin result of a fentanyl overdose. As they trial wrapped up its case on Monday af- began their defense it was clear that ter bringing to the stand numerous Min- they were going to rely on “excited deneapolis police higher-ups in the chain lirium” as an explanation for Floyd’s beof command. These included MPD havior and as justification for his death Chief Medaria Arradondo along with at the hands of Chauvin. police trainers, use-of-force experts, and However, excited delirium has been

By Mel Reeves Community Editor

described as” junk science” by many in the medical profession and is not acknowledged as a real medical condition

“Floyd’s death was absolutely preventable.” by the American Medical Association or the American Psychiatric Association. It ■ See Trial on page 5

Medical Examiner Dr. Andrew Baker Photo by NBC News/You Tube via MGN

MSR SALUTES OUTSTANDING BLACK WOMEN Dr. LaPrincess Brewer: ‘When one Ashley Dubose: ‘Having a purpose keeps me going’ suffers, we all suffer’ Fighting health disparities through FAITH!

By Khalifa Uchechi Contributing writer

By Marquis Taylor Contributing writer

"I was a part of a church that was very close-knit and family-oriented,” said Dr. LaPrincess Brewer. “We had this sense of when one person was suffering, we all are suffering. You can't just let someone be alone and not offer them any assistance." The journey of Dr. Brewer began in the Black church in Charlotte, North Carolina. Her upbringing in the church provided her with a spiritual foundation and a deep sense of servitude. Unfortunately, while she was growing up several members of Dr. Brewer's congregation prematurely passed away from hypertension, diabetes and obesity, all conditions that preventative care could have kept under control. These tragic premature deaths ultimately inspired her to pursue medicine and public health.

“I think it takes a conscious effort to listen to people and not dismiss their concerns.”

Songstress builds legacy by making a difference

Dr. LaPrincess Brewer Photo courtesy of Mayo Clinic

and her peers were assigned to create a sustainable program that addressed chronic diseases and health disparities in Baltimore. Her group ultimately decided to partner with a Black church near the university. Even though the church was so close that the The church exposed Brewer to community out- Johns Hopkins University sign was visible from reach, which has stuck with her throughout her the church’s steps, no one from the school had ever education and career. Between her third and fourth considered working with the Black congregation. year at George Washington University School of Dr. Brewer and her group created FAITH!—FosMedicine, Brewer decided to take a year to pursue tering African Americans’ Improvement in Total her Master of Public Health in epidemiological and Health. The program focused on chronic disease biostatistical methods for public health and clinical prevention through healthy eating and nutrition research at Johns Hopkins University. education. Brewer pursued this academic path to combat "We wanted people to see others that looked the disparities she observed while growing up and like them, but we also wanted to present topics attending school in the Washington, D.C., Mary- that they wanted to hear,” explained Brewer. “We land and Virginia area. didn't want to just come in as the experts saying During a health promotion course, Dr. Brewer this is what we think you need. We wanted to ■ See Brewer on page 5

As 2020 halted the world in its tracks, many recording artists were forced to adjust, pivot, and adapt to the uncertain times, leaving room for introspection and a chance to assess the landscape. Minneapolis-based singer and songwriter Ashley DuBose was no exception to the times, as she had to reconfigure a game plan in order to make ends meet. Despite an impressive musical résumé that began nearly a decade ago and includes two fulllength albums, a collection of hit singles including “Be You,” and an appearance on NBC’s “The Voice,” DuBose had to look from within during this stretch of her career. The changes even prompted her to reevaluate her calling. “In 2020, I became very introspective as an artist, which really made me evaluate what I was doing, “said DuBose. “I had visions of touring and doing all of these amazing things, but then the rug got pulled out from underneath me and many other artists. “This made me reflect on how and why I created music. It also made me think about life and its meaning. I was fortunate to receive opportunities for voice work during that time, especially after my calendar was wiped clean of performances. But there were moments when the outlook looked very bleak.” This moment of self-assessment and self-reflection, combined with other events in 2020 such as the murders of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, led the songstress to also ponder her social contributions and commitment to the Black community. “I was deeply disturbed and emotionally impacted by the murder of George Floyd,” DuBose explained. “After George Floyd was murdered, everyone was wondering what they can do, and simultaneously Breonna Taylor was also murdered. “Moments like this can really make a person feel

Ashley Dubose Photo courtesy of Ashley Dubose helpless, and at first I felt helpless. As I sat in my thoughts, I wondered, ‘If these people in politics

“I want to give people something to help them along their journey through my music.” can’t do anything, what can I do? I’m not a politician and I’m not in a place of power where I can move the needle.’” But when I was called by community leaders to come and perform at various rallies, I was more than happy to give my voice, contribute, and be present. It was such an honor to be in the company ■ See DuBose on page 5

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April 15-21, 2021

Metropolis

Morries Hall and the right not to incriminate yourself

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eople who have watched the Chauvin trial have seen video of the passenger in George Floyd’s SUV, a man dressed in red sweatpants with blue stripes down the side, a white shirt and a red baseball cap. His name is Morries Hall, the person whom Courtney Ross, George Floyd’s girlfriend, suspected of supplying him with drugs. In his opening statement, Chauvin’s lawyer promised the jurors that they would hear from Hall that Floyd consumed pills while they were in the car. The most hotly contested issue in the Chauvin case will be the cause of death. The prosecution intends to prove that Chauvin’s restraint of Floyd

was a substantial cause of his death. The defense wants to introduce reasonable doubt by arguing that he died of an accidental drug overdose. On the overdose issue, Hall’s testimony appears to be quite important. The problem for the defense, however, is that he may not testify at the trial. Hall is currently being held at the jail in downtown Minneapolis, where he appeared, via video, earlier this week. He is being held in jail on a domestic assault charge from another county. He has received subpoenas from the defense and the State, he is right across the street from the Government Center, where the trial is being held, so how it is possible that he may not testify? Under the 5th Amendment

to the United States Constitution, a person has a right not to incriminate himself. When a witness, who is subpoenaed for trial, is going to be asked questions under oath, and answering those questions could force him to make admissions of guilt to a crime, a lawyer is appointed to represent him to discuss whether he can, or should, invoke his 5th Amendment right to remain silent. The Hennepin County Public Defender’s Office represents potential witnesses who are eligible for public defender services. Hall’s lawyer, public defender Adrienne Cousins, moved to quash the subpoenas summoning him to testify. Quash simply means that the judge would cancel the subpoena. Earlier this week, the judge held a hearing to determine whether Hall had legitimate 5th Amendment concerns. During the hearing, the judge asked the defense what he intended to ask the potential witness. In response, the defense listed the following questions: Where did the counterfeit $20 bill come from? Why did he give a false name to the police? What object did he throw from the backpack

he was holding? Why did he a different section which perleave the state? And where tains to drug overdose deaths. did Floyd obtain his drugs? It does not matter that the Each of these proposed Attorney General’s theory questions could force Mr. Hall in the Chauvin trial is that to give information, under Chauvin’s actions caused oath, which could later be George Floyd’s death. Hall could theoretically be prosecuted by the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office for 3rd Degree Murder for providing the drugs that led to his death. Chauvin’s defense lawyer has hired a medical examiner who will presumably testify that George Floyd died of a drug overdose, so it’s not farfetched that Mr. Hall could be charged used to prosecute him. This is with 3rd Murder for providexactly what the 5th Amend- ing those drugs to him. ment to the Constitution proThe judge appeared to tects against. Let’s look at the agree with Cousins that Hall’s answers those questions could 5th Amendment rights were elicit from Hall. If he acknowl- properly invoked, with one edged knowingly passing a exception. He seemed to leave counterfeit bill, giving a false open the door to the defense name to the police, possession asking Hall about George of drugs, and sale of drugs he Floyds’ demeanor. The decould be prosecuted for those fense lawyer was ordered to crimes. write out his proposed quesThe biggest danger to Hall tions and the judge will deis that he could be charged cide whether Hall can be put with 3rd Murder if he sold or on the stand at all. gave George Floyd the drugs A lawyer can’t call a witthat led to his death. This is ness simply to ask him quesnot the same section of the 3rd tions to which he invokes Murder statute with which his 5th Amendment right to Chauvin is charged. There is remain silent. Otherwise, the

The biggest danger to Hall is that he could be charged with 3rd Murder.

defense questions would be,” You gave George Floyd fentanyl pills right before the police arrived?” Hall would then answer, “I invoke my 5th Amendment right to remain silent.” Although he is not agreeing to the question, the defense is suggesting the truth of the statement just by posing the question. The judge is not going to allow that to happen in the Chauvin trial. Although the state also subpoenaed Hall, it is clear they do not want him to testify. If they wanted his testimony, they could decide to give him immunity (or get an agreement from the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office) from prosecution on any potential drug, counterfeiting, or murder charges. By giving him immunity, he would have to testify because there would be an agreement in place that nothing he said could be used against him. The State has not made that offer, however, so if the judge decides to quash the subpoena the defense is out of luck. Mary Moriarity was a public defender for 30 years, most recently for Hennepin County.

Duluth NAACP says police there have practiced racial bias for years MSR News Services "The Duluth Police Department has engaged in years of racially biased policing against Black, Indigenous and other Peoples of Color," said Classie Dudley, president of the Duluth chapter of the NAACP. In a press conference called by Dudley and the Duluth chapter of the NAACP last week they presented data gathered from public records requests which demonstrated the police department there has been arresting and using force on Black, Indigenous and People of Color at a greater rate than on the city's White majority. According to statistics, of the 188 people involved in use of force events in 2019, 34.6% were African American and 13.3% were Native American, despite representing just 3.3% and 2.3% of the city's population, respectively. African and Native Americans made up 16% and 12.8% of arrests from Janu-

ary 2017-October 2020, while Whites made up 68.1% of arrests during that time. “For years the BIPOC community has received unequal treatment from the Duluth Police Department being stopped while walking home from the store, being pulled over for driving violations receiving unwarranted aggression from officers while not knowing where to turn to report police misconduct,” said Duluth NAACP Criminal Justice Co-chair Jamey Scharp. “Studies show that communities of color are no more likely to participate in criminal activities in the use or selling of drugs or acting more aggressively than White people, so with that in mind these numbers suggest that People of Color in Duluth are not committing more crimes than White people. The laws are being enforced at a higher rate against them,” continued Scharp. “One hundred and one years after the [Duluth] lynching of Isaac McGhie, Elmer

Obituary

Jackson and Elias Clayton 57 years after the signing of the Civil Rights Act nearly one year after the murder of George Floyd, it is time to say that policing in Duluth is discriminatory. Our Minnesota Nice in this small town does not make us immune to the deeply rooted systemic racism that plagues every aspect of the lives of our BIPOC community members.” Dudley pointed out that there is no justification for the discriminatory policing. “We demand an immediate moratorium to the harm on the BIPOC community. We call for answers but we demand action. We know that police policing themselves does not work,” she said, as she called for the police to include the community in future oversight.

James D. Rivers, Jr.

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Sunset March 14, 2021

ames D. Rivers, age 75, passed away March 13, 2021. He was a lifelong resident of North Minneapolis and graduated from North High School, where he was a featured athlete. He was preceded in death by father, James D., Sr., and son, James T. He is survived by his wife, Eunice; son, Jonathan; mother, Ada; sister, Mary K. Smith; brother, Aaron; nephews, Jason and Dale (Mary) Smith; grandchildren, Kacena and Kalena, James Diaz, Alexis and Keshia Folks; great-grandsons, Kyle and Javin; best friend, Ted Crockett; and other friends and relatives.

Duluth NAACP President Classie Dudley

Courtesy of MPR

From Classified Department/MN Obituary Spokesman-Recorder PHONE: 612-827-4021 FOR BILLING INQUIRIES Sunset March 21, 2021 & TEARSHEETS ary Karen (Rivers) Smith, age PLEASE CONTACT 72, passed away March 21, ACCOUNTING DEPT 2021. Mary was a lifelong

Mary Karen (Rivers) Smith

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resident of North Minneapolis and the

OBIT /MEMORIAL Camden neighborhood. She graduated RATE $50 (FIRST 200 WORDS) from North High School and retired (85 WORDS TOTAL) from Honeywell after 39 years. She was SUBTOTAL: $50.00 the past Queen of the Sabathanettes Red + PHOTO: $15 Hat Society. She was kind and loving, TOTAL: $65.00

always helping somebody. She will greatly missed. Mary was preceded in death by her Please proof, respond with email husband, Dale M. Smith Sr.; father, confirmation to display@spokesmanJames D. Rivers Sr.; and brother, James recorder.com. D. Jr. She is survived by mother, Ada Rivers; brother, Aaron Rivers; sons, Jason and Dale M. Smith Jr. (Mary); grandchildren, Evelyn and JeDale Smith, Troy and Tschaunbay Dixon; great-grandchildren, other relatives and many friends.

Private graveside service for family. A memorial service and celebration of life will be held at a later date. Washburn-McReavy.com Swanson Chapel, 612-529-9691.

April 15-21, 2021

Health & Wellness

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Vaccinated? Here’s what to expect sometimes minutes after an individual is exposed to a medication or allergen. Symptoms may include airway irritation or low blood pressure, which may lead to lightheadedness, unconsciousness or difficulty breathing. This is why one waits 15 to 30 minutes after vaccination looking for any severe symptoms. If this were to happen, a health care provider would intervene. Fortunately, interventions have rarely been needed as very few severe reactions have occurred during the 126 million vaccinations from 12/14/20 to 3/22/2021. In a recent study of vaccinated employees at Mass General Hospital, only 2% had an allergic reaction to either Pfizer or Moderna. Even more impressive was that only a tiny percentage, .025%, had anaphylaxis. Of those with anaphylaxis, 63% had a prior history of anaphylaxis or allergic reaction history, so we know to be cautious when an individual has a history of either. Most vaccine-related reactions have been local side effects, with 80% of people reporting these side effects after either their first or second dose of Moderna or Pfizer products. Fewer side effects are seen with the J&J-based vaccine as of this date. Of note, all of the systemic side effects are more frequent in young adults with the exception of nausea, which Sean J. Ennevor, MD was seen in young and old. Guest contributor Many of the systemic symptoms are more common after the second dose of the two So you have received a vaccine in hopes of mRNA-based vaccines. The body’s immune preventing moderate or severe infection with response is primed to respond to the spike Sars-Cov-2. You may have noticed friends and proteins once inside our cells regardless of family who have received different vaccines. the kind of vaccine administered. If you don’t Currently four vaccine manufacturers are have side effects, don’t worry. It doesn’t mean prevalent, and the availability of those vac- you haven’t mounted an immune response or cines is dependent upon authorization by the that the vaccine isn’t working. U.S. Food and Drug Administration as well as It is important to report side effects after vaccine supply. vaccination so the incidence can be tracked As a quick reminder, a vaccine’s purpose and adjustments made as needed. The genis to trigger an immune response to protect eral public is encouraged to report side effects against an infectious disease. Currently two experienced after vaccination. Methods of differing delivery systems exist to trigger our reporting include utilizing the V-safe smartimmune response with COVID vaccination. phone app or the Vaccine Adverse Event ReJohnson and Johnson (J&J) and AstraZen- porting System (see information below). eca render an adenovirus harmless to mimic a COVID-19 infection and have the body cre- Effectiveness timelines ate antibodies to future Sars-Cov-2 exposure. The timeline to achieve the optimum effecPfizer and Moderna rely on mRNA technol- tiveness of the vaccines differs for each and is ogy to introduce cellular code that makes as follows. (For any of the vaccines, the effecthe body create antibodies, but no virus is re- tiveness increases over time from initial dosquired. For further explanation, see the previ- ing.) ous article identified below. • Pfizer/BioNTEch (for use in age 16 and All of the current vaccines instruct some of older) our own cells to make the novel spike protein One week after 2nd dose => 95% effective found in Sars-Cov-2. As we mount an im- preventing symptomatic COVID-19 mune response to this protein, side effects and Two weeks after 2nd dose => 100% effecsymptoms may occur. The most common are tive against hospitalization and death from as follows. COVID • Moderna (for use in age 18 and older) Local side effects Two weeks after 2nd dose => 94.1% effec• Pain at injection site tive preventing symptomatic COVID-19 infec• Redness at site tion • Swelling at site Two weeks after 2nd dose => 89% effective against hospitalization and 100% against Systemic side effects death from COVID • Fatigue • J&J (for use in age 18 and older) • Headache Two weeks after 1st dose => 66.9% effective • Muscle pains in preventing moderate to severe COVID-19 • Joint pain infection • Fever Two weeks after 1st dose => 76.7% severe • Nausea to critical infection • Allergic reaction Four weeks after => 85.4% severe to critical COVID-19 infection Possible severe reactions Four weeks after =>100% effective against Of note is that severe allergic reactions can hospitalization and death from COVID include anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a kind of severe allergic reaction that occurs rapidly, The Astra Zeneca vaccine that may be re-

From Classified Department/MN Spokesman-Recorder PHONE: 612-827-4021 FOR BILLING INQUIRIES & TEARSHEETS PLEASE CONTACT ACCOUNTING DEPT OBIT /MEMORIAL RATE $50 (FIRST 200 WORDS) (130 WORDS TOTAL) SUBTOTAL: $50.00 + PHOTO: $15 TOTAL: $65.00

leased in the near future is reported to be 79% effective against symptomatic COVID-19 after two doses four weeks apart and 100% effective against hospitalization or death in same time frame. There is some controversy regarding the data utilized to derive these numbers, and thus we must wait for that to be resolved before use is authorized. All manufacturers seek to improve the effectiveness of their vaccines over time. Currently the best vaccine is the one that is offered to you. As with many vaccinations, the dosing schedules and amounts may change as more study data is available. Booster vaccines may be required in the future for coronavirus variants or to continue effectiveness. We don’t know how long vaccinebased immunity will last, but hopefully it will be a long time.

coronavirus-vaccines-4-questions-answered/ For reporting side effects, visit www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/safety/vsafe.html or https://vaers.hhs.gov/ Sean J. Ennevor, M.D. graduated with a B.A.S. in biology and economics from Stanford University, and as a Dean’s Scholar from UCLA School of Medicine where he received his MD. He completed his medical residency and fellowship in anesthesiology at Yale University, where he was chief resident and on staff. He practiced medicine in the Twin Cities for over 14 years, and presently serves as an advisor and investor for medical technology companies throughout the country.

See prior article for further explanation: https:// spokesman-recorder.com/2021/02/25/how-doesthe-johnson-johnson-vaccine-compare-to-other-

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April 15-21, 2021

Opinion

Early childhood is where inequity begins and where it can end

By Dale Dobrin, Mary Meland, Roger Sheldon, and Ada Alden

Chauvin murder trial exposes contradictions of U.S. democracy By Marjaan Sirdar The Derek Chauvin murder trial is further exposing to the world the fragility of American democracy and the lie of American exceptionalism. In just days, this trial has revealed many contradictions that Black people of Minneapolis have always known existed and have always had to navigate gracefully. Chauvin and his colleagues, who were all sworn to “protect and serve,” disregarded Floyd’s humanity—from the initial encounter when officer Lane approached Floyd with his gun drawn for a non-criminal offense, to the moment Chauvin choked Floyd’s last breath, remaining on top of him for several minutes and refusing to provide care. Charles McMillian, Donald Williams, and Darnella Frazier on the other hand were just bystanders, but they and others on the scene showed tremendous courage by attempting to intervene and save a life. Chauvin even tried to justify the murder of Floyd. “He was a sizable guy. He was probably on something,” Chauvin was heard on video talking to McMillian after he killed the unarmed Floyd. Many African Americans are doubtful that even a guilty verdict will reconcile these contradictions: That Black people are killed like dogs in the streets by the very police who are sworn to protect them, and police are trained to do what Chauvin did the night he killed George

Floyd like a dog. Activist and human rights attorney Derecka Purnell tweeted: “Convictions are not justice. There is no justice in the court.” These contradictory, yet familiar realities are as American as apple pie. Like the relationship CUP Foods had with former employee Chris Martin and his family. Nineteenyear-old Martin testified that when Chauvin killed Floyd, he worked at CUP Foods, lived above the store and paid them rent, and he, like many of their customers, had an open store credit. In his case, his tab was conveniently deducted from his paycheck.

This trial is the best Western democracy has to offer, on display for the world to see. Some observers may liken this to a kinship between the family who owns CUP Foods and their employees, tenants, and customers. However, Black Americans know this is an historic one-sided arrangement with African descendants of enslaved people always in the red. All of Minneapolis should be critically questioning the City’s low-key surveillance camera system. Our expanding surveillance state, as seen in the Chauvin trial with the public-private surveillance

system, has not increased safety and security, yet funding streams for invasive technology forever expands rather than contracts. Despite the fact that cameras were keeping a watchful eye on that intersection and despite the intervention of 911 dispatcher Jena Scurry—who reported to a superior that she believed she witnessed excessive force—and despite the intervention of several bystanders recording the incident, Chauvin murdered Floyd in broad daylight. For years, for decades, and for centuries, this fatal force by police officers and White vigilantes used against Black bodies has been sanctioned with a “wink and a nod” and legitimized in American courtrooms. This trial is the best Western democracy has to offer, on display for the world to see. On the heels of a contested 2020 election, a failed rightwing insurrection on January 6, the Chauvin murder trial is further exposing to the world the fragility of American “democracy.” But this has always been America. The U.S. State Department, who recently doubled down on its claims against China for committing crimes against humanity on its Uygher Muslim minority population, is increasingly finding itself in a defensive position while under the global microscope. The human rights violations at home cannot be ignored. 21st Century Jim Crow in the North Star and my ongoing report for Unicorn Riot demonstrates how Target and other downtown corporations have weaponized Minneapolis police to use brutal tactics for low level offenses, which inspired China’s sweeping surveillance program that has been linked to genocide. Angela Rose Myers, president of the Minneapolis NAACP, talking about what the Chauvin murder trial exposed on CNN, said, “If the verdict is not guilty, it just further exposes our system. It doesn’t mean it wasn’t wrong. The whole world saw what Chauvin did was wrong. It means that our justice system allows this kind of wrong to happen and we need deep policy changes.” Marjaan Sirdar is a freelance writer in South Minneapolis’ Bryant neighborhood,

Early childhood means from birth to three years of age. It is also called the “first 1000 days.” The period of pregnancy is also a very important time, since good health at this time is key, and poor health during pregnancy may lead to challenges when the baby is born and, in the months, to follow sadly, as with so many things in our society, wealth and income predict the ability of a family to obtain regular prenatal care and maternal health screening. Wealth and income also predict a family’s ability to provide the low stress, stable, and secure first weeks and months of life for parent—infant bonding as a foundation for months to come. Those early months, the “first 1000 days,” set the stage and may affect the outcome of a life. It is no secret to BIPOC people and communities that rather than the period of pregnancy and the 6-12 weeks after a baby is born being a time of calm and low stress, often the opposite is true. Put bluntly, this phenomenon is directly related to wealth and income inequities. Families with income or job insecurity do not have paid family leave to help during the bonding time, and income and job insecurities lead to food and housing struggles. This leads to high stress, which science tells us is harmful to mother, father and baby. A mother required to return to the workforce too soon after a baby is born, with or without a job waiting for her, is putting her and her baby’s health at risk. For those of limited means, if good quality child care is available, it is of-

ten not affordable. In fact only around 50% of young families can afford quality child care in Minnesota. Often family members are called upon to help, and some are able. Yet in many families, those a parent turns to for help are dealing with the same struggles as the new mother and father. Science tells us that loving, consistent baby care by parents or by a consistent, well trained child care worker in the first year or two of life is necessary to give the infant

tion and paid family leave. This can affect the development of their babies and children in the first 1000 days, leading to another inequity called the “learning gap”. According to brain science, without a strong foundation of development in the first 1000 days, most often remedial work in pre-K and K-12 cannot replace what has been lost. All this can even lead to repeating cycles of poverty and struggle from generation to generation.

For those of limited means, if good quality child care is available, it is often not affordable. toddler the healthy foundation to have success in school and in life. Talking, singing, reading, and playing with a baby or toddler teaches them how to relate to another person and how to learn. Science also tells us that in the absence of this healthy foundation, the young child’s development lags in socialemotional and pre-academic areas (like reading and learning words, both of which predict success in school and in life). Right now, our legislators are deciding how much state money should go to quality child care and early child hood education (the first 1000 days) and to Paid Family Leave (PFL). Most Western countries provide much more help in these areas than the U.S. does. BIPOC families often live in communities characterized as “child care deserts.” Families of limited means and BIPOC families are most likely to miss out on affordable child care/early educa-

Our network of nearly 100 pediatricians, family doctors, educators, researchers, and college professors is asking our legislators for more public funding targeted to people who need it most. Please raise your voices to your Minnesota state representative or state senator to let them know how important Early Childhood funding for paid family leave, quality prenatal care, quality child care, and early education in the first 1000 days is to you. While the absence of the necessary ingredients for a healthy child can be bad, when the first 1000 days goes well, the results can be wonderful. Equity happens when people’s hopes come true. Please call, write, or email your elected officials. Dale Dobrin, MD, FAAP (Fellow American Academy of Pediatrics), Mary Meland, MD, FAAP, Roger Sheldon, MD, FAAP, and Ada Alden, EdD are advocates of Early Childhood Funding.

Georgia still fighting the Civil War By Wim Laven When I first moved to Georgia, I received a quick education on a different way of life. As an icebreaker for my first day of teaching at Kennesaw State University, I asked, “Why did I see so many Confederate flags when I went for a jog through my neighborhood?” and learned, “My uncle says there wasn’t a lawful surrender, so he still flies his because we’re still at war.” The election for governor in 2018 was exhausting and cringeworthy; Brian Kemp ran an ad that featured him pointing a shotgun at a teenager who presumably wanted to date one of his daughters and I must have suffered that sight 10,000 times. Dating his daughter would require “a healthy appreciation for the second amendment…” even though he didn’t practice basic gun safety when pointing the weapon at the child. The race for the Republican nomination featured many guns and explosions. The best I could tell was they were trying to out-crazy each other; pointing a shotgun at a teenager sure seemed insane to me. It would come as no surprise that I support Stacey Abrams. She did not point guns at teenagers; she champions free and fair elections. Many of the people where I lived supported her, she beat Kemp in Cobb County by 30,000 votes, but it gets tricky. Kemp was Secretary of State and running the election he was in. The demographics were clear, and Kemp had a vested interest

in making it more difficult for the voters where I lived to exercise their right to vote, because we supported his opponent. Increased turnout was expected, but instead of increasing polling locations, in areas with high concentrations of liberal and minority voters polling sites were closed. Kemp was able

The few window-dressing assists to voters in the 98-page law are meant to give Republicans rhetorical cover. It is heinous corruption and the goal is clear; Republicans have decided the only way they can win is to discourage and suppress the people’s vote. This round of Jim Crow will give the Chickens sweeping

Thanks to Georgia’s new voter suppression law, giving water to a voter who is in line is a felony. to make the exceptionally long line by overseeing the combination of reduced polling locations with fewer voting machines, reduced early voting access, and understaffing liberal-area polling locations. The bottleneck was completely avoidable. The suppression was intentional or complete incompetence. Georgia Republicans cannot win a fair fight so they are investing in every strategy they can to limit access to the democratic franchise of voting. Republicans have had years to think about adjusting their platform to appeal to minority voters, but they have decided they would rather stifle their voices. Now, thanks to the Georgia Republican state legislature and their new voter suppression law, giving water to a voter who is in line in Georgia is a felony. Less dramatic but more anti-democracy measures include a sharp reduction in drop boxes and several other limitations on voting clearly designed to impact districts that tend to vote Democrat.

powers to reject and throw away votes, and other states with Republican-controlled legislatures and governors are following suit with the Brennan Center reporting more than 350 such bills in 47 states. The only fix is federal, the For the People Act, and we will see if it becomes law. It is the natural sequel to the 1965 Voting Rights Act and is needed. Now! The repeated efforts to undermine Black votes and Black voices is disgusting and we need to make sure the racist strategies are punished. But, sadly, for the moment Georgia’s big chickens are getting away with it. Wim Laven has a Ph.D. in International Conflict Management; he teaches courses in political science and conflict resolution.

April 15-21, 2021

Wright Continued from page 1 to police violence in Minnesota, all stood in solidarity demanding justice for Wright. Standing in front of the Hennepin County Government Center where the Chauvin trial was being held, Crump said, "If ever there was ever a time when nobody should be killed by police, it is during this pinnacle trial of Derek Chauvin. “We believed with everything in our heart, Katie, that police would be on their best behavior, that they would exercise their greatest standard of care. That they would concentrate on deescalation in a way that they have never concentrated in America. "Regrettably,” said Crump, “two days ago Daunte Wright was killed during a traffic citation.” Family members present insisted that Potter should be charged with the highest crime possible. Asked directly what they wanted, a family member responded, “We want her to go to jail. If one of us had done something like that, we would already be in jail.” There have been continuing protests since Sunday afternoon after Wright was shot. Governor Tim Walz on Monday night issued a 7 pm curfew for Minneapolis, St. Paul, Brooklyn Center and Brooklyn Park. The curfew was scheduled to end on Wednesday night. Brooklyn Center’s response to the protests has been condemned by community members and activists. Police fired tear gas in-

Trial Continued from page 1 is also not listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) of Mental Disorders. The defense also on Tuesday talked quite a bit about Graham vs Connor, a 1989 Supreme Court ruling that has established a kind of national standard for police use of force. Out of that ruling, the test for excessive force was established. It is based on “whether the officer’s actions

discriminately into nearby apartments and at community members and others who showed up at the Brooklyn Center Police Station to protest the shooting on Sunday night. At a press conference on Monday, Police Chief Tim Gannon released the video of the shooting. He said that after watching the video, it’s his belief that the officer [Potter] “drew their handgun instead of their taser,” resulting in an “accidental discharge” of the officer’s handgun. The police chief also said there was no gun found in Wright’s car. The video appears to show that police attempted to arrest Wright after he exited his car. It then appears that the initial officer had him in hand and was about to place handcuffs on him when another officer intervened and began patting him down in an aggressive manner. After a struggle with an officer, a gun comes into view, and not long afterward Wright is shot. After he is shot the car rolls down the street. During the body camera clip a voice could be heard saying, “taser, taser” in the background before the shooting. After the shooting, Potter can be heard screaming, “Holy sh*t, I just shot him.” After an emergency Brooklyn Center City Council meeting, Mayor Elliott was placed in charge of the Brooklyn Center Police Department and given authority over the police chief. Later that day it was reported that the city council had dismissed City Manager Curt Boganey. Citizens were outraged on Monday after Boganey

A call to his mother According to Daunte Wright’s mother Katie Wright, Daunte had just gone to the car wash and was driving home when she received a call from him. He told her that the police had pulled him over because of air fresheners hanging in his rearview mirror. Katie Wright said she told him to give the phone to the officers so she could give them her insurance information since she had just given the car to Daunte. Katie Wright said after that, “I heard the police officer come to the window and say put the phone down and get out of the car, and I heard Daunte ask, ‘Why? Do I have any warrants?” She said she heard the police say, “We will explain to you when you get out of the car.” “Then I heard the phone being put on the dashboard or dropped and then I heard scuffling,” she said. “And I heard the police officer say, ‘Daunte, don’t run.’ And the other officer said, ‘Put the phone down,’ and hung it up. “And about a minute later I called and his girlfriend answered. She had been a passenger in the car and she said he had been shot.” The mother said Daunte’s girlfriend was FaceTiming her

are ‘objectively reasonable’ in light of the facts and circumstances confronting them.” The defense called as a witness use-of-force expert Barry Brodd. Brodd explained all of the factors that police have to take into account when confronting possible suspects. It appears the prosecution brought before the jury the group of medical experts partially because Hennepin County Medical Examiner Dr. Andrew Baker’s autopsy report on why George Floyd died gave weight to the de-

fense contention that he died of a drug overdose. Baker, while on the witness stand, reiterated what he wrote in his autopsy report. He had said, in conversation with Hennepin County Attorney Michael Freeman, “Had Mr. Floyd been found alone in his locked residence with no evidence of trauma, and the only autopsy finding was that fentanyl level, then yes, I would certify his death as due to fentanyl toxicity.” But he also added, “Again, interpretation of drug con-

Brewer Continued from page 1 know what they needed and wanted. Then, we presented that information to them, and we loved it." They held a summer series with health professionals from Hopkins that included cooking demonstrations with local Black chefs, reading food labels, and learning to manage diabetes and hypertension through diet and lifestyle. After completing her residency at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Dr. Brewer was accepted to the Mayo Clinic Cardiology fellowship in 2012. After arriving in Rochester, she's tailored her FAITH! Program to the local Black faith community and introduced it in five churches. At first, the work was solely carried out through in-person workshops. The

backed Chief Gannon’s deployment of mace, chemical irritants and flash bang materials on Sunday night during what was a peaceful protest in front of the Brooklyn Center Police Department.

program has since transitioned into mobile health technology with her app FAITH! FAITH! will include education modules featuring health professionals from Mayo Clinic, fitness videos, and syncing abilities to Fitbit to track diet. There is also a sharing board similar to Facebook or Twitter where participants can share tips, successes and challenges with their healthy living journey. Additionally, Dr. Brewer and her team will have the ability to moderate and post relevant health information for African Americans. FAITH! is currently in the research prototype phase. Upon release, Dr. Brewer hopes that the app will be available for download from Mayo Clinic or another professional society such as the American Heart Association for any church to use. While the app is not available for the general public, the Facebook page

Dubose Continued from page 1 of others who were passionate about making a difference.” Responding to this call to action, DuBose was able to make her presence felt at a variety of events and rallies including last year’s Juneteenth Community Festival and Rally for Justice as well as this year’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration and Rally. Musically, the artist has made it a point to celebrate and embrace her Blackness by releasing a song that captured the mood of 2020. Affectionately

5

Daunte Wright killed by Brooklyn Center police April 11, 2021.

on the phone, and she placed it near the driver’s side so she could see. “I saw my son laying there shot.” Protests On Monday night there was a vigil in the neighborhood and a protest in front of the Brooklyn Center Police Station. Many chose to stay beyond the 7 pm curfew. Protests continued as police, including Minnesota State Patrol, attempted to clear areas where crowds had gathered. Video captured police arresting random people outside of a Brooklyn Center gas station. It was likely the people arrested were not aware of the curfew. There were reports that several stores were looted in

Brooklyn Center overnight and a few on Lake Street in Minneapolis. Several people were arrested on burglary charges and for curfew violations in Minneapolis. In Brooklyn Center it was reported that there were several arrests for curfew violations and other causes. Protests continued on Tuesday in Brooklyn Center. Mayor Elliott told community members that the City would be working with the BCA and other agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the shooting. After prodding from activists at the April 13 press conference, Mayor Elliott said, “This case needs to be appointed to the attorney general, so I am calling on the governor to

exercise his authority and to move this case from Washington County [to] the jurisdiction of the attorney general. That needs to happen.” The Minnesota Twins, Minnesota Timberwolves and the Minnesota Wild all canceled their scheduled home games Monday night. They all acknowledged that, considering the circumstances and the mood of the community, their organizations did not feel that playing their games would be appropriate. All of the organizations shared condolences with the Wright family.

centrations is very contextdependent.” Baker’s initial findings raised eyebrows because he admitted that he did not look at the video of Chauvin placing his knee on Floyd’s neck for over nine minutes. But under cross examination by the defense he said, “Mr. Floyd’s use of fentanyl did not cause the subdual or the neck restraint.” He added, “[Floyd’s] history of heart disease did not cause the subdual or the neck restraint. “In my opinion, the law en-

forcement subdual, restraint and neck compression was just more than Mr. Floyd could take,” Baker concluded. “I believe that Floyd’s death was absolutely preventable,” testified Dr. Jonathan Rich, a professor of cardiology at Northwestern University in Chicago on Monday. Rich said that he thought there were several junctures where without the prone restraint Floyd would not have died. He pointed out that one juncture was “when he was in that subdual position and he

was stating that he couldn’t breathe.” He pointed out that when one of the officers holding Floyd down said he was passing out, “that would have been an opportunity to relieve him from that position and put him in a different position.”

FAITH Cardiovascular Health and Wellness provides an abundance of information. There are at least four posts a day related to heart health, health and wellness, community-based resources, inspirational scripture passages, and COVID-19. "If you're trying to recruit people into a clinical trial or even promote health and wellness, you can't ignore what's going on in society right now. We had to pivot and focus on some COVID-19 initiatives." said Dr. Brewer. Her "labor of love" last summer was a partnership with Open Cities Health Center in St. Paul. Open Cities became a testing site, but its effectiveness was hampered by the slow testing turnaround. Results sometimes took a little over a week to process. Brewer, through Mayo Clinic, established a drive-through and walk-up COVID-19 testing site with results delivered within 24-48 hours. The work of the col-

titled “Make Me Black,” the track is an affirmation and ode to Blackness, a welcome vibe following the tumultuous events of 2020. “‘Make Me Black’ is a song I’d written prior to everything that happened in 2020,” she said. I wrote the song as a way to celebrate Blackness because being Black is all-encompassing, beautiful and diverse. Although there is no one way to be Black, we’re still a beautiful and resilient group of people despite the hardships we’ve gone through and still go through.” To commemorate Women’s History Month, DuBose reintroduced “Torch,” a cut from a 2017 project that she believes has taken on various meanings. “‘Torch’ is like an empowering anthem. It can be looked at as a women’s empowerment anthem, but

Photo courtesy of MGN

laborative was published in the Journal of Public Health early this year. This testing initiative's primary successes were the convenience, the outdoor safety, and that it was held at a trusted community clinic. "I think it takes a conscious effort to listen to people and not dismiss their concerns,” said the doctor when asked about how she works to address concerns and mistrust surrounding COVID-19 and the vaccine. Brewer's testing partnership with Open Cities led to her and Mayo’s current efforts to promote and administer the COVID-19 vaccine. Several churches in the Twin Cities that have previously partnered with FAITH, including Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church and New Hope Baptist Church, have started community drive-through clinics. They hope to spread the word through a barbershop talk held in the

the message can be applied to all people as well,” said the songstress. “The song can also be looked at as if a person is picking up a torch and carrying on a legacy. For me, I feel like this is what I’m doing inherently for the Minneapolis Sound, which is something I was not thinking about initially when the song was written. I recorded the song that day Prince passed away, so it has an extra meaning.” On the horizon for DuBose are a series of new singles that the songstress plans to release throughout the bulk of 2021. The newly released “Boy Crazy” with Ne-Yo promises to be a hit and will likely put her and the Minneapolis Sound back in the spotlight.

Mel Reeves welcomes reader responses to mreeves@spokesman-recorder.com. Online Editor Paige Elliott contributed to this story.

Mel Reeves welcomes reader response to mreeves@spokesman-recorder.com.

barbershop of Vision Church. During this talk, Mayo Clinic health professionals will answer questions about the vaccine and promote the community vaccination clinic that FAITH! plans to hold at the church. The goal is to make sure the congregation and community members know that this service is out there and it is for them. Brewer’s passion for service through medicine and love for her church community has driven her to touch the lives of thousands. “I didn’t really feel that I belonged until I had acceptance from the African American faith community. I just felt like once they really embraced me, we’ve never looked back.” Khalifa Uchechi welcomes reader responses to kuchechi@spokesman-recorder.com.

The established musician and Twin City favorite is intent on walking in her purpose by positively affecting people through her music. “As an artist, I want to be whole so that I can give people something of substance to help them along their journey through my music. Despite all that’s going on in the world, what keeps me going is knowing I have a purpose and that purpose is making a difference.” Ashley DuBose’s music is available on all streaming platforms and can be listened to and purchased directly by visiting her official website: www.ashleydubose.com.

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April 15-21, 2021

Business

Local barbershop exemplifies Black excellence Houston White Men’s Room

Black Business SPOTLIGHT

coined phrases; Be the Change (BTC) and Black Excellence (BE). There’s also a quaint coffee bar stocked with their new, signature Good Time Coffee (GTC). The BTC and BE clothing lines exemplify class and sophistication. White started the brand seven years ago when he created

By Ashley Lauren Contributing writer Houston White is an ambitious, focused, and multifaceted entrepreneur who grew up in North Minneapolis. He established the Houston White Men’s Room (HWMR) in 2007, located in the vibrant and welcoming, Camden neighborhood. The mission and purpose of HWMR is to “hopefully be an example, be exemplary, to be an example of what’s possible, inspire, and really be like a mecca of Black excellence not only in Minnesota but in America,” said White. White loves his neighborhood. “Ever since I was little, I’ve always had an affinity for Camden— 44th Avenue is like Grand Avenue and then our Summit Avenue is Victory Memorial Parkway, [in St. Paul] so this is, in my opinion, the next Grand and Summit except its Northside,” said White. He emphasized that “every neighborhood has the same challenge,” and stressed the importance of figuring out how to improve the neighborhood “without displacing the people.” HWMR is directly across the street from North Market. Important to note, White is originally from Jackson, Mississippi. He grew up in North Minneapolis. “I went to Lincoln, then Northeast and North High,” said White. His entrepreneurial journey began at an early age. To elaborate, White said, “I started selling t-shirts in elementary [school] originally. I was about 10 or 11 years old.” At the

Houston White

Photo courtesy of Instagram/HoustonWhite.co

time, White designed and painted articles of clothing. Years later, the very first shirt. “I’m a preppyhe attended North High and ex- street, Black dude,” White said panded his product line. of his style. He added, “I’m a big White further recalled, “It was something I call a business in a backpack. I had everything, incense—t-shirts.” He also provided fresh haircuts out of his barbershop, located in the basement of his home. “This [HWMR] is just a mature version of what I was doing as a kid,” said White. Since opening in 2007, the business has “matured into a brand that sits under my name and all these things are connected to it,” said White. When customers visit HWMR, they will experience a swanky barbershop that showcases his popular fashion line with

fan of black and white photography, Gordon Parks, timeless aesthetics.” His style is prevalent in the BTC and BE clothing. In addition to apparel, customers also have a plethora of items to choose from. White said, “Everything from suit jackets to lapel pins, sportswear, golf, tennis clothes; we have a pretty wide carry of product assortment.” They also carry bags and t-shirts. The price range is “$15-200, just depends,” said White. Most recently, White launched Get Down Coffee. He developed a business partnership with his friend Dan Anderson, the founder of Dogwood Coffee. “We call

culture. So, what’s Blacker than hip hop?” asked White. “I really wanted to bring some culture into coffee.” White encourages everyone to stop by for the “morning time coffee happy hour.” He said the most popular coffee is “the Drip Drip-Cardi B.” Patrons can also purchase Turntable and “King Kunta” coffee. The price range is $17 to $23 a bag. White explains that “Drip Drip is more on the lighter side while Turntable is more potent and pungent. Customers can also purchase GDC merchandise. He will be expanding the line in the future.

got some grants, so it's been good in that respect.” Although there are trying times in business, White said that seeing people buying Black Excellence shirts has been a rewarding aspect. He’s grateful for the support. Some companies have bought into the Camdentown vision as well. White established business partnerships with major retailers like Target and J.C. Penney that carry his brand of clothing. The MSR asked White about the most enjoyable aspect of being an entrepreneur. He replied, “The process of taking an idea and transforming it—creating opportunities and jobs.” He added, “There’s no limit. It’s not easy; entrepreneurship is the style right now—it’s like skinny pants.” But White emphasized that running a business “isn’t a game.” White also shared advice for youth and upcoming entrepreneurs: “The most important lesson I’ve ever learned is to write things down,” he said and added to “bet big on yourself.”

Houston White Men’s Room is located at 1500 N. 44th Ave., in Minneapolis. The hours of operation Photos by Ashley Lauren except where noted. are Tuesday through Saturday, 9 am to 6 pm. it a sibling coffee company,” said White. There’s an interesting history that surrounds the process of their signature, flavorful and unique coffee. “Specialty coffee has become an uppity business and I really—I don’t see

Unfortunately, like many local businesses, the COVID pandemic has caused disruption. “Revenue dropped significantly,” said White. Although there have been financial hardships, he remained resilient. “We’re making it; thank God we are,” said White. “We’ve

For more info about HWMR, visit www.houstonwhite.co or call 612-361-2151. Ashley Lauren welcomes readers’ responses to alauren@spokesmanrecorder.com.

April 15-21, 2021

Arts & Culture

7

Star of legal drama ‘Delilah’ says her character champions the voiceless By Nadine Matthews Contributing writer Maahra Hill stars in “Delilah,” a legal drama on the Oprah Winfrey Network, created by the same team behind its popular drama “Greenleaf.” Hill plays Delilah Connell, a woman the actress describes as “a voice for the voiceless. She would be in the forefront defending people like George Floyd. She would be fighting on behalf of the majority of the world for sure.” More than a fierce legal eagle, Hill’s character is a family woman, a divorcee, mom of two biological children, and caregiver of her nephew. “She's very much for family. I think she is similar to most women in that she's wearing multiple hats, being many things to many people," Hill stated. “For Delilah,” said Hill, who delayed her own acting career until her daughter was almost an adult, “parenting is on the forefront of her life. She wants to be available for her kids, similar to what I wanted to do for my daughter; able to drop them off,

pick them up, have dinner with them.” Wanting to give her daughter as much attention as she needed, Hill was a stay-at-home mom for many years. “Fortunately, I was in a position where I didn’t have to work.” A somewhat nomadic existence as a child living in Illinois, Ohio, and Texas made Hill comfortable with change. “Change is a constant in life. I’m always prepared to adjust and adapt.” Traveling to the subcontinent of India as a child also shaped Hill’s worldview. “My mother went for spiritual journeys. We went to Puna, although it might have a different name now. As an adult, it's cemented in me as much respect for Eastern philosophy as I have for the West.” During high school in Illinois, Hill was on the speech team where she won the state championship for dramatic interpretation. “That was where my love for acting grew,” she shared. Once her daughter started college, Hill began flying out to Los Angeles and doing commercials, then moving into guest spots on TV shows about five years ago. She points to working with

Maahra Hill, star of legal drama “Delilah” on Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) Photo by Brad Ogbanna

Laurence Fishburne on "Blackish" and Viola Davis on "How To Get Away With Murder" as the highlights of her career prior to landing the lead role on "Delilah."

It isn’t lost on Hill that she is part of the same club as Davis and other women like Meghan Markel, African-descended women who have played law-

yers on TV. “Following in their footsteps in any way,” she said, “is an honor.” Comparing her character to Davis’ Annalise Keating, she stated, “For sure, Delilah and Viola’s character have a lot in common. They’re both strong, intelligent women who are passionate about their work.” That, however, is where the commonalities end for Hill. “I don’t want to be judgmental, but Delilah has a very strong moral compass and leads with integrity.” One of the great things about "Delilah" is the sprawling network of family, friends, and colleagues with whom the lead character interacts from the outset. There’s always someone for Delilah to spar or commiserate with. One of those characters is Tamara, also a lawyer and Delilah’s best friend, played by Jill Marie Jones of "Girlfriends" fame. Hill shared that the veteran TV actress has been invaluable to her as she tackles her very first starring role. “It's been great working with her. She and I have developed a real friendship. She has a wealth of experience and is too happy to share.” With a relationship that may

remind viewers of Molly and Issa of "Insecure," the two intelligent strong-willed, passionate friends’ bond is tested when they end up on opposite sides of the courtroom. “They’ve been friends since middle school and it’s the most intense experience they’ve had in their friendship.” It isn’t just her lawyer character that draws Hill to discussions around the law. “I was interested in political science as a major in college. I've always considered social justice.” She added, “Most important is knowing that your vote counts. You want to put people in who will fight for the things that are important to you.” Hill also said that having reallife lawyers like Michelle Obama and Kamala Harris in positions of visibility is important for all Americans. “Wherever we can have an image of ourselves in an empowered position, who is also nurturing and compassionate is great for young girls and hopefully increases feelings of empowerment for the whole community. Nadine Matthew welcomes readers’ response to nmatthews@ spokesman-recorder.com.

Jamecia Bennett headlines grand opening of Crooners’ new outdoor venue The local theatre and music icon and three-time Grammy winner Jamecia Bennett inaugurates Crooners Supper Club’s tented lakeside concert venue, The Belvedere, on back-to-back nights on Friday and Saturday, April 23-24. Bennett was named the Ordway Theater’s first resident artist for the 2020-21 Broadway at the Ordway season. She is a member of the Penumbra Theatre and the New Dawn Theatre, and is an NAACP Image Award winner with Sounds of Blackness, the internationally acclaimed group for which she is lead vocalist. At Crooners Bennett premieres her new blues show “The Evolution of Jazz and Blues,” which will feature a number of her favorite jazz and blues classics, several originals from her upcoming album, and a number of popurban hits that illustrate the continuing influence of the blues on contemporary music. Backing Bennett is her local band J Movement, which includes LA Buckner, Samia Butler, Darnel Davis, Deevo, Layce Dreams, David Feiley, Kennidi Hurst, Josh Johnson, Michael May, and Brian Ziemniak.

when not at your table. Other announced Belvedere headliners include Marilyn Maye (four nights May 20 to 23); The New Standards (two nights May 1 & 2 on sale April 5); and Storyhill (May 14 & 16)

Jamecia Bennett

Submitted photo

Bennett plans on releasing her new self-titled blues album, “Mecie’s Blues,” later this year. Her blues single, “Holiday Blues,” was released to wide acclaim in 2019. In January she released international single “Do What You Want,” a collaboration with Berlin hit-maker, DJ Dickey Doo. She is a partner with Tomme Beevas in the newly renovated Pimento Jamaican Rum Bar, part of the Eat Street District on Nicollet, and the CEO of artist development company Minnesota Movement Entertainment. The Belvedere will fea-

Tickets are $30 for the shows on April 23-24 and are now on sale at at www.croonersmn.com. For in-person and livestream tickets and information, visit www.croonersmn.com or call 763-760-0062. Crooners is located at 6161 Highway 65 NE, just north of Minneapolis and 694 in Fridley.

ture tented table seating with choice views of Moore Lake, —Information provided by expanded patio flooring, a Crooners Supper Club. large custom-built stage. A culmination of last year’s four popular outside venues, which presented a total of 247 ticketed shows from June to November of last year, the Belvedere will offer full dinner and cocktail table service, plated food and easy access to the Crooners building. As is the case with Crooners’ two indoor venues (which opened on January 28) stringent COVID-19 safety precautions are in effect outdoors, including table distancing and mandatory mask-wearing

Jamie Foxx to play Mike Tyson in upcoming limited series

Jamie Foxx

Jamie Foxx will play boxing great Mike Tyson in a new biographical limited series, Variety reports. The series, titled simply “Tyson,” is not currently set up at a network or streaming service, but will no doubt find one quickly given the names attached to the project. Antoine Fuqua is onboard to direct and executive produce via

Mike Tyson

Fuqua Films, with Martin Scorsese also executive producing via Sikelia Productions. The series is said to span the whole of Tyson’s life. “I have been looking to tell my story for quite some time,” Tyson said. “With the recent launch of Legends Only League and the excitement from fans following my return to the ring, now feels like the perfect moment.

Courtesy of NNPA Newswire “I look forward to collaborating with Martin, Antoine, Jamie, and the entire creative team to bring audiences a series that not only captures my professional and personal journey but also inspires and entertains.” This story was republished from The Florida Star via NNPA Newswire.

8

April 15-21, 2021

BULLETIN

Vaccinations now available at the Urban League Twin Cities

Urban League Twin Cities, in collaboration with Stairstep Foundation/His Works United, Messianic Care, and Black Nurses Rock TC will provide COVID-19 vaccination events for community members ages 18 years and older. The Johnson & Johnson vaccine will be administered, which requires only one dose. Vaccinations will be administered on Wednesdays throughout the month of April from 1-7 pm at the Urban League’s Glover Sudduth Center building in North Minneapolis located at 2100 Plymouth Ave N. Minneapolis, MN 55411. Vaccinations are available to individuals 18 years of age and older and must be scheduled by appointment. Walk-ins will not be accepted. To schedule an appointment, call the Stairstep COVID-19 Hotline at 612-2541228.

MDH announces new opioid podcast series Free podcast provides listeners insight, hope and help

Photo Courtesy of MGN

sights on providing support and resources to all Minnesotans who are affected by opioid use disorder, and all communities where substance use leads to personal, family, and community suffering.” The "Stories from the Field" podcast series tells real stories from real people throughout the state and are just one tool in MDH’s opioid overdose prevention work. The series reveals the raw emotions of people who have battled substance misuse, lost loved ones, and managed to get through it. The diverse group of guests represents communities of color, tribal communities, the LGBTQ population, and a variety of economic backgrounds. Community advocates, medical professionals and other front-line prevention specialists discuss the problem, efforts to destigmatize substance use, and possible solutions. They all agree that recovery is possible. “Podcasts are just one way the Injury and Violence Prevention section at MDH engages with our communities to address the emerging opioid crisis,” said Dana Farley, injury and violence prevention supervisor. “By featuring the work being done throughout the state, we hope to leave listeners with a sense of hope and that help is available.”

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) today announced the launch of a new podcast series, "Stories from the Field," aimed at addressing the evolving opioid epidemic. The goals are to provide a voice to those who have experienced substance use disorder, offer resources to those helping people who use drugs make safer choices, and to illustrate the complexities of the epidemic. The podcast hosts a series of experts in the health care field, as well as community leaders and others devoted to reducing the number of Minnesotans affected by this crisis. The opioid crisis continued to escalate in 2020, with 373 overdose deaths reported in the first six months of the year. That’s compared to all of 2019, where a total of 428 total Minnesotans died from an opioid overdose. Minnesota Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm says To listen to the podcast series, visit the impacts of every overdose, fatal bit.ly/OpioidsPrevention. or non-fatal, are far-reaching and For more information and other reavoidable. sources, visit bit.ly/OpioidPrevention“We know that every death by page. overdose is a preventable death,” said Malcolm. “We need to set our

The Legal Rights Center offers community sessions during Chauvin trial The Legal Rights Center is offering an Open Restorative Processing Space on Fridays from 4 to 5:30 pm to help Minneapolis community members process the

Derek Chauvin trial. To register, go to bit.ly/LRCTrial

Employment & Legals Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State Certificate of Assumed Name Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 333 ASSUMED NAME: CROFT & FROST, LLC PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS: 333 Washington Avenue N Ste. 401 Minneapolis MN 55401 USA NAMEHOLDER(S): Name: Address: Croft Enterprises, LLC 333 Washington Avenue N Ste. 401 Minneapolis MN 55401 USA By typing my name, I, the undersigned, certify that I am signing this document as the person whose signature is required, or as agent of the person(s) whose signature would be required who has authorized me to sign this document on his/herbehalf, or in both capacities. I further certify that I have completed all required fields, and that the information in this document is true and correct and in compliance with the applicable chapter of Minnesota Statutes. I understand that by signing this document I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Section 609.48 as if I had signed this document under oath. SIGNED BY: Paul Croft MAILING ADDRESS: 333 Washington Avenue N Ste. 401 Minneapolis MN 55401 EMAIL FOR OFFICIAL NOTICES: paul@croftenterprisesllc.com Filed: 4/5/21 Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder April 15 & 22, 2021

STATE OF MINNESOTA COUNTY OF HENNEPIN

DISTRICT COURT FOURTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE COURT DIVISION CASE TYPE: PROBATE/MENTAL HEALTH

In Re the Estate of:

Vincent Patrick Trammel, Decedent (Deceased person)

Court File No. 27-PA-PR-21-200

NOTICE OF INFORMAL APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS: Notice is hereby given, that an application for informal appointment of personal representative has been filed with the Registrar herein. No will has been presented for probate. The application has been granted. Notice is hereby further given that informal appointment of Matthew V. Trammel, whose address is 1481 W. Fairview Dr., Springfield, OR 97477, and Jordan M. Trammel, whose address is 7171 Clayton Ave., Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076 as co-personal representatives of the estate of the abovenamed decedent, has been made. Any heir, devisee or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as personal representative or may object to the appointment of the personal representatives and the personal representatives are empowered to fully administer the estate including, after 30 days from the date of issuance of letters, the power to sell, encumber, lease or distribute real estate, unless objections thereto are filed with the Court (pursuant to Section 524.3-607) and the Court otherwise orders. Notice is further given that ALL CREDITORS having claims against said estate are required to present the same to said personal representative or to the Probate Court Administrator within four months after the date of this notice or said claims will be barred. Dated: March 19, 2021

Julie Peterson Julie Peterson, Registrar Sarah Lindahl-Pfieffer District Court Administrator

Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder April 8 & 15, 2021

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Plaintiff,

RATE PCI (1ST RUN) Deadlines are one $15.53 week prior to the print date. Once eve SUBTOTAL: $46.59 FOR BILLING is approved we will email you an invoice that you can eit PHONE: 612-827-4021 INQUIRIES on the invoice or mail a check. Bruce H. Scroggins, (first team) and junior Adanna RATE $10.35 PCI (PER ADDITIONAL & TEARSHEETS FOR BILLING Rollins (second team) joined SamDefendant RUN- billing 3 WEEKS) The MSR handles digitally. PLEASE CONTACT INQUIRIES edy as All-Big Ten team members. THIS SUMMONS IS DIRECTED TO the above-named Defendant: Continued from page 10 $31.05 X 3 =and SUBTOTAL This means you willDEPT get e-tears e-mailed $93.15 invoices un ACCOUNTING 1. YOU ARE BEING SUED. The Plaintiff has started a lawsuit & TEARSHEETS Landfair also made the conferagainst you. The Plaintiff's Complaint against you is attached to this summons. you specifically request a hard copy. @ BILLING@SPOKESMAN-RECORDER.COM PLEASE CONTACT ence all-freshman team. Do not throw these papers away. They are official papers that affect your Total: $139.74 rights. You must respond to this lawsuit even thoughDEPT it may not yet ACCOUNTING More volleyball… Landfair averaged three kills be filed with the Court and there may be no court file number on this sumSUMMONS @ BILLING@SPOKESMAN-RECORDER. Minnesota opposite hitter per set, led the Gophers in kills mons. Please proof, respond with email confirma FLAT RATEwas $200 COM 2. YOU MUST REPLY WITHIN 20 DAYS TO PROTECT Stephanie Samedy a unani- five times this season, and posted display@spokesman-recorder.com YOUR RIGHTS. You must give or mail to the person who signed this mous selection for this year’s Big 11 double-digit kill performances. summons a written response called an Answer within 20 days of the date on The MSR handles billing digitally. Ten Player of the Year. She was Her 186 kills are second on the which you received thisLEGAL Summons.NOTICES You must send a copy of your The will MSRget handles billing digitally.invoices This means you e-tears and e-mailed Answer to the person who signed summons at: SIZE: 2 this COL X 5.25located = 10.50 among three Black This teammeans mem- you team, and was twice honored will getshe e-tears Megan Curtis Law, PLLC unless you specifically request a hard copy. and e-mailed RATE $15.53 PCI (1ST RUN) bers who also were voices honored by as Bigspecifically Ten Freshman of theaWeek 332 Minnesota Street, Suite W1610 unless you request hard St. Paul, MN 55101 SUBTOTAL: $163.07 the conference. during the season. Samedy, a four-time all-conRollins was third on the team 3. YOU MUST RESPOND TO EACH CLAIM. The Answer is $10.35 PCI (PER ADDITIONAL your written response toRATE the Plaintiff's Complaint. In your Answer you must RUN) ference selection, averaged a with 158 kills, averaged 2.63 kills state whether you agreeSUBTOTAL: or disagree with each $108.68 league-best 4.11 kills per set and per set, and 171 digs. paragraph of the Complaint. If you believe the Plaintiff should not be given Total: $271.75 4.63 points per set, a team-best 259 everything asked for in the Complaint, you must say so in your Answer. kills and hit .278. The senior beCharles Hallman welcomes 4. YOU WILL LOSE YOUR CASE IF YOU DO NOT SEND Please proof, respond with email confirmation came to the first Gopher since 2011 reader responses to challman@ A WRITTEN RESPONSE TO THE COMPLAINT TO THE PERSON WHO SIGNED THIS display@spokesman-recorder.com SUMMONS. If you do not Answer within 20 days, to post 20-plus kills and 20-plus spokesman-recorder.com. you will lose this case. You will not get to tell your side of the story, and the digs in a single match this season. Court may decide against you and award the Plaintiff everything asked ThedoMSR handles digitally. for in the complaint. If you not want to contestbilling the claims stated in the Freshman Taylor Landfair complaint, you do not need to means respond. Ayou default judgment can then be entered This will get e-tears and e-mailed inagainst you for the reliefvoices requested in the complaint. unless you specifically request a hard copy. SUMMONS

v.

Brown

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Continued from page 10

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hamud were selected from cochamp Highland Park. Malik Alabi, Xavier Garcia and Brian Williams of fourth-place Humboldt were also named. Alexander Addai and Salman Ahmed of Harding, Amir Plair and Donnavon Clinton of Como Park, and Tyquan Allen of Washington round out the 19-member team. Deb Williams (Highland Park) was selected as girls’ basketball Coach of the Year. Jesse McCann (Highland Park) was selected boys’ Coach of the Year.

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10

Sports

April 15-21, 2021

College coaches long for some normalcy The pandemic has flipped college sports literally and virtually upside down since last spring. Volleyball finished its 2021 season earlier this month instead of last fall. HBCU football is now underway. The MSR in separate interviews spoke to Iowa Volleyball Coach Vicki Brown and Hamline Football Coach Chip Taylor on how they have handled the topsy-turvy world of sports under a viral threat.

Vicki Brown: ‘You see the extra stress’

T

he Big Ten’s first pandemic-influenced season is completed. Minnesota will begin their NCAA Tournament play April 15 as the third overall seed. This is the first time the tournament is being held during the spring. Iowa’s 2021 season concluded April 2-3 at Minnesota after being swept 3-0 in consecutive matches and finishing with a 4-16 record. The Hawkeyes missed two matches due to COVID-19 protocols.

days. Especially academically— her players for the most part took their classes on line and not in the classroom. “You see the extra stress on the court,” Brown said. “I think it’s more academic frustration seen on the court this year.” The Hawkeyes were mostly young, and too often this showed as they tried to stay competitive in a very competitive Big Ten, one of the nation’s top volleyball conferences. The final scores, Brown added, often didn’t tell the complete story and the matches weren’t “a complete wipeout.” “Everyone in this conference

“Everyone in this conference is tough. Your job is to stop them.”

Vicki Brown Second-year Head Coach Vicki Brown told the MSR that the season for her players was challenging and forced adjustments just as it was for virtually everyone playing sports these

is tough,” said Brown. “Your job is to stop them.” Brown is one of three Black female head coaches in the Power 5 conferences; Michaela Franklin (Clemson) and Marci Byers (Virginia Tech) are the others. According to the NCAA, there are only 16 Black head women’s coaches in Division I in 2019.

Black colleges have more—all 10 SWAC coaches are Black women. Diversity in volleyball over the years has maintained a snail’s pace: an increase of two Black HCs from 2012 (25) to 2020 (27). But Black female players over the same time have seen their numbers growing more significantly, from 609 in 2012 to 862 in 2020. Brown easily recalls her college days as a twice AllBig Ten honorable mention at Illinois during the mid-2000s “seeing me and another Blacks” on the court, she said. After playing pro ball overseas, Brown moved into coaching several years ago. “I use my platform” as a head coach to hopefully influence other Black females to try coaching after their playing career comes to an end. “Women seeing other women, and the more women coaches you see” will help improve the sport’s diversity, she said. Without a typical spring to work on individual and team development, Brown is looking to a normal fall season later this year. Hopefully. “The things I see my team [doing well] do take time,” the Iowa HC concluded. “I’m looking forward to [fall] 2021.” ■ See Brown on page 9

W Draft preview

The 2021 WNBA Draft will be held Thursday, April 15. Because the NCAA granted an extra year of college eligibility to players, all seniors—nearly 50 players for the first time—had to “opt-in” for the three-round draft. Dallas has the No. 1, 2, 5 and 7 picks. If the Wings keep the first two picks, they will become the first WNBA club ever to select the top two picks, and could become the first team to pick four first-rounders as well. “Whether we keep all the picks or not, who knows,” Dallas President Greg Bibb told reporters, including the MSR, during an April 9 conference call. “But it’s always good to have options.” Minnesota only has one pick—ninth overall in this year’s draft. “This class isn’t as strong as maybe last year’s class,” noted ESPN Analyst Rebecca Lobo. She and fellow analyst LaChina Robinson shared their pre-draft thoughts last week. We asked Robinson if any players improved or diminished their draft stock from their NCAA performances last month. She easily pointed to Arizona’s Aari McDonald. “I think Aari probably was one of the more underestimated stars coming into the NCAA Tournament,” explained Robinson on the 5’-6” McDonald. “There were some questions about her size coming in… She proved a lot of people wrong around what

she was capable of. “I just thought the way she played on both ends of the floor…definitely helped her draft stock.” Bibb added, “I think Aari McDonald is an exceptional player who has gotten better each year.” Robinson also pointed to two players, Rutgers’ Arelia Guirantes and Chelsea Dungee of Arkansas, whose draft stock respectively might have

LaChina Robinson Courtesy of Twitter dropped because their teams exited early from the tournament. “I’m sure a lot of the GMs and head coaches would have liked to see them during the prime time of the year for our sport,” she said. “I do think that she is a high-quality guard,” said Chicago Coach-GM James Wade on Guirantes. He added on Dungee, “I think she has a future in the league.” Texas 6’-5” forward-center Charli Collier, if solely based on her inconsistent tournament play, might have seen her stock go down a bit. She was projected as a top pick in the 2021 draft coming into the season. “When you look at Charli, she looks like a WNBA

player,” said Lobo. “She’s big and strong, has a great frame, plays really hard. I think when you see her performance against some teams, it makes you take pause a little bit. “You also have to understand the system she was playing in. A big is in heaven when they are surrounded by shooters because it gives them space to be able to operate. Charli wasn’t necessarily surrounded by shooters this year,” added Lobo. “I think Charli Collier has been in that top group of players and continues to be in that top group of players,” reaffirmed Bibb. “I think the world of Rennia Davis [of Tennessee],” continued Robinson. “She’s an incredible athlete. She looks like a pro. She has all the assets, the skill set to be a differencemaker.” The analyst also likes Alabama forward Jasmine Walk-

“This class isn’t as strong as maybe last year’s class.” er “a lot. She may be the best pure shooter in the draft at the wing position.” As has been the case in recent years, no matter where a rookie is drafted, making a WNBA team roster is harder and harder. There’s just not that many open spots. “I think it’ll be hard, although not impossible, to make a roster this year,” said Wade. Charles Hallman welcomes reader responses to challman@ spokesman-recorder.com.

Chip Taylor: ‘It’s been a challenge’

H

amline University is now in the midst of spring football, but not in the usual way. The Pipers are conducting practices now until April 22 and then holding an intrasquad scrimmage sometime this spring. They haven’t played a regular season game since the fall of 2019. The 2020 fall season was cancelled due to the coronavirus, and the MIAC could schedule games this spring. “Each school is allowed to figure out what they want to do,” Coach Chip Taylor told us. He and school officials decided to just practice and not play games. “It’s been a challenge,” admits the Hamline HC. No games, no practices, and no typical recruiting. “A lot of college football is relationships, sitting at home talking with Mom and Dad [during a recruiting visit]…to trust us [with their sons] at Hamline University. Zoom takes the relationship piece out of it. “I took it for granted, the team meetings and being in front of your group,” continued Taylor. “You can meet on Zoom…but it’s been tough not to be able to be in front of these guys.” Taylor is in his fifth season at Hamline after being promoted to head coach in 2016.

sions in 2020, one more than in 2012. There were eight Division III Black head coaches in 2012, and six in 2020. The MIAC had zero Black football coaches in 2012, and only one, Taylor, since 2016. Player diversity is also scant—nine percent (87) of Division III football players in Hamline Coach Chip Taylor 2020 were Black, down four Courtesy Hamline U (87) in 2012. “I’m looking forward to the MIAC in 2021,” said Taylor. He was the Pipers’ defensive The league will be without coordinator for three seasons St. Thomas, who is now in before his promotion. The Division I, but Macalester New Jersey native with a BA returned to the conference to in physical education and a play football. “It will be difmasters in sports administra- ferent,” he noted. tion has nearly 20 years of More importantly, the Pipers coach is looking for a season this fall after an almost two-year absence. “We’ll be close to some sort of normalcy in August when we return for training camp. “I’m looking forward to having a tough-minded, physical football team on the field this year. We have the coaching experience. right kids in the program.” He has been the MIAC’s only Black football coach and Charles Hallman welcomes one of six Black HCs in Di- reader responses to challman@ vision III. According to the spokesman-recorder.com. NCAA’s latest demographics, there were 83 Black head coaches total in all three divi-

“It’s been tough not to be able to be in front of these guys.”

Porter and Hodges named Players of the Year in St. Paul

PreP Scene Dr. Mitchell PalMer McDonalD

Guard Ronnie Porter (Como Park) and forward Julian Hodges (Johnson) were selected as the St. Paul City Conference Players of the Year for the 2020-21 prep basketball season. Porter, a 5’2” junior, led the Cougars to their seventh straight

Julian Hodges girls’ City Conference championship averaging 24.4 points per game. She is among the state’s top players. Hodges, a 6’0” senior, led the Governors to a second-place finish in the boys’ conference race

Ronnie Porter Photos courtesy Breakdown as the team’s leading scorer at 13 points per game. Como Park juniors Cloey Dmytruk, Jada James and Kaylynn Asberry joined teammate Porter on the All-Conference ■ See Prep on page 9