November 26, 2020 - MN Spokesman-Recorder

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THE VOICE OF THE AFRICAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY SINCE 1934 November 26—December 2, 2020 Vol. 87 No. 17

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THIS IS WAR!

COVID-19 still ravaging Black community

Protect yourself and others By Mel Reeves Community Editor

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ccording to the COVID Tracking Project’s racial disparity dashboard, Blacks in the U.S. have lost their lives to the virus at 2.3 times the rate of White people. The Black community has one of the worst mortality rates in the country—as of October 13, one in 920 Black people had lost their life to the disease. While Black people have not campaigned actively against public safety measures to limit

Courtesy of MGN

Hospitalized COVID patients cling to life

New fund to aid families of healthcare workers felled by COVID

Effort the brainchild of the U of M’s Dr. Michael Osterholm

By Jasmine Snow Contributing writer Peaches Goodridge misses her mom. She is among many who has lost a loved one who worked in the healthcare industry and died due to COVID-19. A newly incorporated charity Frontline Families Fund seeks to raise money to offset financial burdens incurred by families of felled health care workers during the pandemic. The 27-year-old bank employee said she remembers a time when she and her mother, Pastor Larrydean Goodridge, would talk every day. Larrydean, a 45-yearold phlebotomist at North Memorial Health Hospital, would often talk to her daughter about the prayer lines she would start for patients and colleagues, especially during the pandemic. “It was because her faith was so strong that nothing fazed her,” Peaches said. “Whatever was wrong, she took it to God in prayer so [working during the pandemic] was not a problem

father this time—informing her that her mother had died in the same hospital she had been calling on God to watch over. Peaches had managed to take the news in stride, but she was soon faced with another harsh reality—the financial burden. As one of Larrydean’s oldest children, Peaches quickly became the head of her mother’s household in Minneapolis, assuming responsibility for her mother’s mortgage payments and medical bills, as well as the bills for her mother’s house and her own lifestyle in Mesa, Arizona. “It was insane,” she said. “I’m still not entirely sure what exactly I’m going to do just yet with all of this.” As a family member of the more than 1,400 health care workers who have died due to COVID-19, Peaches qualified Peaches Goodridge’s mother was a health care worker who for help. She initially applied for some grants, with little success. died from COVID Submitted photo She said the overly complicated and extensive application profor her. She would talk to me: going to be touched by CO- cesses often made it too strenuous to work through. ‘Peaches, there’s an outbreak VID.’” The Frontline Families Fund Unfortunately, on June 1, in this entire family. Nothing is going to happen to any- Peaches received a very dif- might just be the answer to her body in this family. Nobody's ferent phone call—from her prayers. The fund is the brain-

the spread and impact of COVID-19, there have been indications that they have not been as vigilant as they should. In some areas, Black folks have reportedly been lax in following COVID-19 prevention protocols, which include wearing masks and social distancing which limit the spread of the disease. While the disproportionate impact ot the disease stems from disparities in health and healthcare, nothing prevents the Black community from doing what it can to protect itself. “The intersection of systemic racism and the administra-

tion’s failed response put the Black community at particular risk,” according to the COVID Tracking Project. Adding to the problems is African Americans' disproportionately high rates of pre-existing conditions (comorbidities), which are associated with higher rates of hospitalizations and deaths from the virus. Black patients are hospitalized with the virus at three times the rate of White patients. “Blacks have the second highest rate of infection in the state of Minnesota. It’s bad. It does not look good. The Health Department is doing all it can with its ■See COVID on page 5

Panelists advise ways to stay connected but safe By Amudalat Ajasa Contributing writer

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t looks like people are stuck sharing gravy with the those in their immediate household this Thanksgiving, as COVID-19 leaves them scrambling like turkeys with their heads chopped off. “COVID is the reason why our holiday season is going to look different,” said Brittany Wright of Insight News and moderator of the AALF forum, “We Good; COVID-19 and Black Minnesota.” As Thanksgiving and other holidays that normally encourage social gathering are fast approaching, the African American Leadership Forum (AALF) last week discussed ways to social

■See FUND on page 5

distance during the holiday season. Panelists included: Adrienne Thornton, nurse and prevention specialist at Children’s MN; Marnita Schroedl, CEO and founder of Marnita’s Table; Marlee Dorsey licensed professional and clinical counselor; Dr. BraVada Garrett-Akinsanya, licensed clinical psychologist; and Rosemond Sarpong Owens, director of Health Equity at Blue Cross Blue Shield Minnesota. “There are over 200,000 deaths in the United States and there are over 200,000 cases in Minnesota,” declared Thornton, a regular panelist on AALF’s biweekly town halls. “Black and Brown people continue to be disproportionately impacted by COVID.”

■See AALF on page 5

MPR forum discusses disparities in housing POC still trailing in housing equity

By Charles Hallman Contributing writer The growing issue of access to housing, especially during a pandemic and economic downturn, along with its systemic impact on Blacks, Indigenous and People of Color, whose communities are hit harder than others was recently discussed as part of MPR News’ In Focus series. MPR partnered with Catholic Charities of St. Paul and Minneapolis for a November 19 virtual panel discussion on Racism in Housing Access. Before COVID-19, an estimated 8 million Americans – mostly Black and youth, at least 10,000 families and individuals experi-

ence homelessness on any given day and night. Seniors also are finding themselves in a growing rate of homelessness as well. The coronavirus outbreak has exacerbated the housing problem in unprecedented ways. The Minnesota Housing Partnership (MHP) 2019 annual report found that over 25% of state families pay more than they can afford for housing – more than 1 in 4 households are “cost burdened” – a household that spends more than 30% of its income on housing, and often don’t have enough resources to pay for other necessities like food and medicine. Minnesota has one of the largest renter populations in the Up-

per Midwest (Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, North Dakota, South Dakota), which has grown proportionally by nearly 30% since 2000, the MHP report said. The state also has the highest percentage (44%) of cost-burdened renters, and more than 60% of the state’s rental households reside in the Twin Cities -- Hennepin (38%) and Ramsey (41%) Counties have the largest percentage of rental households. Six Twin Cities counties rank among the highest in Minnesota in senior renter cost burden – paying 30% or more for housing: Washington (69%), Dakota (65%), Ramsey (62%), Anoka (62%), Scott (61%) and Hennepin (59%). Ramsey (25%), Hennepin (23%)

and Anoka (22%) are among the state’s highest percentage of senior renter households paying half or more of their income for housing. Minnesota also has a homeownership gap by race – the Upper Midwest states have the worst racial disparities in homeownership in the country: 24% of Black households are homeowners, compared to Whites 77%, Asians 57% , Native Americans 46% and Latinos 45%. “I don’t know if Minnesota is more unique or has more racism” than other parts of the country, said MPR Impact and Community Engagement Director Ka Vang in a MSR pre-event phone interview. “We changed the

Courtesy of MGN narrative of people of color and Indigenous people … end up in shelters and on the street homeless. I think there is a misconception out there that says people of color are not good with our money, lazy . .. not responsible, that’s why we end up in shelters and on the streets.”

“Every day, our staff sees firsthand how racism impacts access to housing, which is fundamental to a person’s health and stability,” added Catholic Charities’ Wendy Underwood, vice-president of social justice advocacy and engagement. “Our clients ■See HOUSING on page 5

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November 26—December 2, 2020

Gov. Walz announces new COVID-19 restrictions

Executive order suspends in-person social gatherings, dining, sports, fitness centers In response to the skyrocketing cases of COVID-19 in the state, Gov. Tim Walz has announced a four-week pause on social activities, in-person dining, sports, and fitness establishments. “Today marks a somber milestone in the pandemic as we surpass 3,000 Minnesotans lost to COVID-19,” Gov. Walz said. “This immense loss strikes at the heart of our state. We are at a breaking point. As hospitals near the crisis of turning away new patients, continuing as things are is simply not sustainable. “The actions announced today will help prevent more families from losing a loved one and ensure our hospitals can treat those who fall ill,” Walz continued. “While these actions mean incredible hardship for many, they are the fastest way to recover our economy, keep our kids in school, and get back to the activities we love.” The new restrictions aim to curtail community spread. Last week, Gov. Walz explained that public health measures are targeting who, when, and where the virus is spreading. The scientific research and public health data indicate that the virus is spread most in places where people gather for long periods of time, especially when masks are not consistently worn. For instance, a quick stop at a retail store with a mask and social distancing appears to be lower risk than a gathering of friends for dinner where guests are likely to be seated closer together and unmasked while eating or drinking—whether it’s at a restaurant or in their own home. Beginning Friday, November 20, at 11:59 pm and lasting until Friday, December 18, in-person social gatherings with individuals

outside your household are pro- ant Gov. Peggy Flanagan. “Take it now being put to the test as the vi- but we must take action now to hibited; bars and restaurants are di- from me, no celebration is worth an rus spreads quickly across the state, slow down the rate at which COVID-19 is spreading in all corners of aled back to take-out and delivery empty seat that will never be filled. region, and country. our state,” Minnesota Department of Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm said. “Our health care workers continue to work hard to provide care but we can’t afford to overwhelm them. Every Minnesotan needs to understand that they have a key role to play here. That means staying home and avoiding close contact with those outside your household,” Malcolm said. “It means wearing a mask when you do need to go out in public. It means staying home when you’re not feeling well. It means getting tested when appropriate and isolating until you get the test results.”

service only; gyms, fitness studios, entertainment venues, event spaces, and similar establishments will need to close; and adult and youth sports are paused. Retail businesses, salons, and places of worship may continue to operate with proper precautions in place. Child care remains open. Schools will continue to operate under the Safe Learning Plan, which shifts between in-person, distance, and hybrid learning depending on the local conditions of the virus. All other current restrictions also remain in effect. “I know the upcoming holidays make it incredibly difficult to stay home and stay apart, but this is how we keep the people we love safe and healthy,” said Lieuten-

This dial back will help us do everything we can to make sure our tables are full next year.” The pandemic has reached a concerning and dangerous phase throughout much of the Midwest this November. It took 29 weeks to reach 100,000 infections in Minnesota, and just six weeks after that to reach 200,000. Sometime next week, less than three weeks after reaching 200,000 infections, Minnesota will reach 300,000 infections. This week, the U.S. reached a grim milestone of 250,000 deaths. At the beginning of the pandemic, the governor asked Minnesotans to help slow the spread of the virus as hospitals built up capacity to ensure they could care for everyone who falls ill. That extra capacity is

can to keep businesses and workplaces safe as we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, yet we’re in a precarious position that’s now more urgent than ever before,” said Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development Commissioner Steve Grove. “That’s why we must collectively take action to slow the spread of the virus – the health and well-being of Minnesotans, and our state’s jobs and economy, depend on it.” “To all Minnesotans who are struggling to get by, I know this pandemic is devastating,” Gov. Walz said. “This pandemic is not fair. We need federal support to help keep our businesses afloat, our workers paid, and our families with food on the table. I will continue to fight with every fiber of my being for that support that you need and deserve.” Executive Order 20-99 will have the full force and effect of law upon the approval of the Executive Council, which is made up of Gov. Walz, Lt. Gov. Flanagan, Attorney General Keith Ellison, Secretary of State Steve Simon, and State Auditor Julie Blaha.

Help for businesses To support small businesses that are struggling as they do their part to combat the spread of COVID-19, last week Gov. Walz announced an additional $10 million in Small Courtesy of MGN Business Relief Grants. This fundHealth care workers are also ing will support an additional 1,000 getting sick. It was reported on businesses that have applied for Wednesday that more than 900 the grant program. It supplements staff at the Mayo Clinic have con- hundreds of millions of dollars in tracted the coronavirus in the last small business support that MinInformation and graphics pronesota has allocated since the begin- vided by the Office of Tim Walz, few weeks. The sickness of health care ning of the pandemic. With options except where noted. workers impacts hospitals’ ability at the state-level severely limited to provide care even when there are moving forward, the governor is enough actual hospital beds. This pushing the federal government has put our hospitals on the verge for additional support. Minnesoof dangerous capacity shortages tans with questions about unemwith some hospitals already report- ployment insurance are encouraged to visit uimn.org. ing turning away new patients. “Minnesota business leaders “Every day brings us closer to having safe and effective vaccines, have been doing everything they

November 26—December 2, 2020

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We are in a world war against the pandemic A COVID-19 update

By Dr. Charles Crutchfield The pandemic is currently the worst it has ever been. We are currently in a “Red Alert” world emergency. We need to be tough and smart, but the future is optimistic. World update • 56 million people infected • 1.4 million deaths worldwide to date The surge is sweeping the world with another wave that is as bad if not worse than the original infection. Many countries around the world are now considering variations of complete shut-downs, again. U.S. update • There are 12 million cases of COVID infection.

• There are 255,000 dead. The United States has 4% of the world’s population, but almost 22% of COVID infections. What we are doing and have done is not working. There are several problems. First, we are a vast country, an association of 50 states, all of which are proudly independent and rarely like being told what to do. The other problem is that there has been no national leadership on the pandemic. It has become a political issue rather than a public health problem. The withholding of information and providing misleading and untruthful information by the administration is atrocious. The current administration’s ignorance, incompetence and indifference have put tens of thousands of lives at risk, including hundreds of people in the White House staff and secret service. We are at war. It is a world war against the pandemic. Can you imagine if we were at a military world war and our president did not meet with the generals for five months? President Trump has not met with the COVID task force for five months and, to date, the president refuses to provide information on the pandemic to the Biden transition team. There are over 1,000 dying every day in the U.S. That is 42 Americans dying every hour. Since the infection numbers are going up, so will the death count in time. It took three months for the

first 1,000,000 people to become infected. We had 1,000,000 people infected this past week alone. The pandemic is entirely out of control. Minnesota update • 225,000 infections • 3,000 dead In fact, one-day last week alone 8,700 people tested positive in one day in Minnesota. Positive tests, hospitalizations and deaths are all increasing in Minnesota. Vaccine update There are 179 vaccines currently in production. We are developing vaccines at an unprecedented rate. Three essential considerations in developing a vaccine are: • Safety profile • Long-lasting protection • Effectiveness in the elderly There are three types of vaccines: • Live • Inactivated/Attenuated • Genetically engineered Two genetically engineered vaccines have proven more than 90% effective and are ready for human use. One is from Pfizer/BioNTech, and the other is from Moderna. Dr. Fauci supports both of these and says they are a huge step in winning the COVID-19 war. These vaccines use genetically constructed mRNA that carries the instructions for making copies of the target (spike) proteins,

like the “S-proteins.” When human cells make these foreign proteins, it can cause the immune system to respond to the virus. The advantage of this type of vaccine is that no dangerous virus must be used or handled at all. The companies say they should have 30 to 50 million doses ready by year’s end. Front-line health care workers should be getting the vaccine starting the end of December 2020. At-risk individuals will be next, and the general population should begin getting vaccinated around April 2021. Additional considerations include that the vaccines must be stored at very cold temperatures (Pfizer’s at -75 degrees, Moderna at -20 degrees), so this will make distribution challenging. Also, people will need two doses about 2-4 weeks apart. The U.S. government has purchased the initial dosages, and they will be provided free to all. This is excellent news. The better news is that there are 777 more vaccines in development! There is another new genetically engineered-like vaccine in development. Scientists are constructing monoclonal antibodies, much like the medicines touted in many T.V. commercials to treat psoriasis. These antibodies will attach to the spike proteins of COVID and assist the body to rid them faster. This is much like the antibodies found in the plasma of patients who have recovered, but available in more extensive and

limitless supplies. These may not pay all obligations for 3-4 months. be used to prevent infections but Interest rates are at an all-time will be part of a treatment pro- low. We are at war. Drastic measures must be gram for infected patients. taken, because what we have done until now has not worked. Mask update The wearing of masks is still The term “shut-down” is too the most cost-effective way to politically charged. It is not an block the spread of the virus. off/on switch; instead, it is more Combine this with appropriate of a dimmer switch. We need to distancing and handwashing, dim most things and keep the esand we have an excellent pro- sentials open for just a few more gram until the vaccinations are months until the vaccines are in place. in effect. The future of winning the Doctors are now learning that wearing a mask is protective for pandemic war is exceptionally the wearer and prevents others optimistic. Let’s all be tough for around the wearer, a double ben- 3-4 months. Wear masks, social efit. Some ignorant people have distance, and limit exposures. We tried to make this a political issue. will win the COVID war in 2021. Finally, remember, vaccines It is not. It is a public health issue. As Dr. Julius Butler said, won’t win the war; vaccinations “Wearing a mask is not a political will. Get vaccinated when it is statement, it is an I.Q. test.” Wear your turn. a mask anytime you are not at Charles E. Crutchfield III, MD is home. a board-certified dermatologist and clinical professor of dermatology at Optimistic future We acknowledge that wear- the University of Minnesota Medical ing masks and social distancing School and a Benedict Distinguished are frustrating and inconvenient. Visiting Professor of biology at CarI would say that dying or kill- leton College. He also has a private ing your friends and/relatives practice, Crutchfield Dermatology is much more so. We need to re- in Eagan, MN. He received his MD alize that no matter how much and Master’s Degree in molecular biwe wish to return to normal and ology and genomics from the Mayo celebrate the holidays with fam- Clinic. He has been selected as one ily, we need to be smart and hold of the top 10 dermatologists in the on a few more months until the United States by Black Enterprise magazine. Minnesota Medicine recvaccines are working. I would suggest that the gov- ognized Dr. Crutchfield as one of the ernment pass a financial support 100 Most Influential Healthcare bill that allows all businesses to Leaders in Minnesota. stay open and gives all citizens enough financial resources to

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November 26—December 2, 2020

The Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder (MSR) welcomes and values commentary and feedback from the community. The articles found here are edited for clarity and/or space, but the opinions are the author’s own and do not reflect the views of the MSR.

New administration has a mandate from the poor Liz Theoharis

Trump not alone in undermining democaracy By Margaret Kimberley Joe Biden has garnered more than 270 electoral votes and thus is president elect. Ordinarily that information would be sufficient and the country would have accepted his victory and moved on, regardless of political affiliations or opinions about the winner. But nothing in American politics has been ordinary since Donald Trump entered the scene. He announced, via Twitter of course, that he concedes nothing and declared that the election was rigged against him. In usual Trumpian fashion he doesn’t care what the media think, what Republican leaders think, and he certainly doesn’t care what Democrats think. Twitter may label his missives as being false, but that label only carries weight with people who already dislike him. The 70 million who voted for him take ex-

There is a reservoir of support for him, but once again, the pollsters didn’t know it. It is obvious that many of his supporters keep their opinions to themselves. One Republican polling company predicted a Trump win. They were wrong, but not by much and they explain the need to find the “shy” Trump voter. They aren’t shy at all but they do cover up. Who wants to be thought of as a deplorable? They may not come out of the closet to pollsters, but they support Trump strongly. It doesn’t matter how others feel or if social media companies tell them not to listen. Trump puts Whiteness first and that means he will always have support and Republican leaders know it. It is ridiculous to ask why they won’t condemn him. He is probably the only one of their party who could have beaten Hillary Clinton and the only

“nothing in American politics has been ordinary since Donald Trump entered the scene.” ception to such claims. Trump is a political force, even as he leaves the White House. He is the true face of the Republican Party, even as “never Trumpers” claim otherwise. Not only do his supporters agree that he was cheated, but they protest in support of him as they did in the Million MAGA March in Washington. This is the coup, such as it is. There weren’t Proud Boys attacking Black people on Election Day, there are just more aggrieved White people now than when he won in 2016. Trump gained an additional seven million votes in his losing effort.

one who could do so well in a losing effort despite presiding over a pandemic that has killed more than 250,000 people in the country. Whatever their personal feelings, Republican leadership know that their people still love him. It is interesting to watch the hand wringing because Trump is once again blowing up the political system. His claims of fraudulent voting are no worse than the Democratic Party and their friends among the elite establishment pushing the Russiagate fraud. People and institutions deemed trustworthy, prestigious and eminent all

turned the system upside down and did lasting damage to electoral politics, the media, and to public trust in government. The New York Times assisting the Democrats who delegitimized an election is no better than an AR-15-carrying Trumper from the hinterlands. Despite evidence disproving their case, it is now accepted by most Americans that Donald Trump was a Russian agent or dupe and that Russian Facebook memes told Black people not to vote. Anyone presenting a counter narrative is banned from the public sphere by the very people who peddled the fraud. MAGA hat wearers yelling, “Stop the steal!,” have harmed the country far less. There are other skeptics who side with Trump in his claims of fraud. They are entitled to do so and should present some evidence for their claims. But they are also incorrect when they call the election a coup against Trump. However, the fault is not completely theirs. The elites have created a failed state and that produces great cynicism and loss of trust. Millions of people believe nothing they are told and lean on their opinions as if they were facts. The people undermining democracy are the establishment figures who gerrymander districts, the military industrial complex which buys off both parties, and the prosecutors who always find a way to keep Black people behind bars. Donald Trump is exercising his legal rights and the media who censor him or editorialize instead of reporting accurately are the ones destabilizing the system yet again. The state of Florida offers an object lesson. Floridians voted for Trump again but also voted to increase their state minimum wage to $15 per hour. The angry White racists will surely remain among us, but some of them would be peeled off if they saw a clear personal advantage in voting for Democrats. If that party were half as inclusive and as helpful to working people as it claims, there would never have been a Trump presidency at all. There is no coup, just the corruption we are told to accept. Trump will throw bombs on his way out the door. He changed politics forever but the way to beat him is simple. Just meet the people’s needs. Had that happened, far fewer of them would have followed a failed businessman and reality television star who marketed himself as presidential material. Biden will succeed him, but because the Democrats are dedicated to doing as little as possible to help the people, Trump may still win in the end. He had plenty of help from his opponents in making the country ungovernable.

Today, in the early winter of an uncurbed pandemic and the economic crisis that accompanies it, there are 140 million poor or low-income Americans, disproportionately People of Color, but reaching into every community in this country: 24 million Blacks, 38 million Latinos, eight million Asians, two million Native peoples, and 66 million Whites. More than a third of the potential electorate, in other words, has been relegated to poverty and precariousness and yet very little of the political discourse in recent elections was directed at those who were poor or one storm, fire, job loss, eviction, or healthcare crisis away from poverty and economic chaos. In the distorted mirror of public policy, those 140 million people have remained essentially invisible. All of us live in a land where there are two Americas, one of unimaginable wealth, the other of miserable poverty; an America of the promised good life and one of almost guaranteed premature death. One enduring narrative from the 2016 election is that poor and low-income voters won Donald Trump the White House, even if the numbers don’t bear it out. Hillary Clinton won by 12 points among voters who made less than $30,000 a year and by nine points among voters who made less than $49,999; the median household income of Trump voters then was $72,000. Four years later, initial estimates suggest that this trend has only intensified: Joe Biden attracted more poor and low-income voters than President Trump both in the aggregate and in key states like Michigan. Trump, on the other hand, gained among voters with annual family incomes of more than $100,000. In 2020, it’s becoming clear that poor and low-income voters helped decide the election’s outcome by opting for a candidate who signaled support for key anti-poverty issues like raising the minimum wage, expanding health care, and protecting the environment. In down-ballot races, every congressional member who endorsed Medicare for All won reelection, even in swing states. Imagine then how many dispossessed and disenfranchised voters might have turned out if

more candidates had actually been speaking to the most pressing issues of their lives? Seventy-two percent of Americans said that they would prefer a government-run healthcare plan and more than 70% supported raising the minimum wage, including 62% of Republicans. Even in districts that went for Trump, voters passed ballot measures that, only a few years ago, would have been unheard of. In Mississippi, people voted to decriminalize medical marijuana, while in Florida a referendum for a $15 minimum wage got more votes than either of the two presidential candidates. The battleground states that won Joe Biden the presidency have also been battlegrounds in the most recent war against the poor. In Michigan, hit first and worst by deindustrialization, millions have struggled with a failing water system and a jobs crisis. In Wisconsin, where unions have

change begin for the poor and marginalized. The first priority in such an era should, of course, be to pass a comprehensive relief bill to control the pandemic and buoy the millions of Americans now facing a cold, dark winter of deprivation. The House and the Senate have a moral responsibility to get this done as soon as the new administration takes office, if not before (though tell that to Mitch McConnell). The first 100 days of the Biden administration should then be focused, at least in part, on launching a historic investment in securing permanent protections for the poor, including expanded voting rights, universal healthcare, affordable housing, a living wage, and a guaranteed adequate annual income, not to speak of divestment from the war economy and a swift transition to a green economy.

been under attack for years and austerity has become the norm, both budgets and social welfare policies have been slashed by legislatures. In Pennsylvania, rural hospitals have been closing at an alarming rate and, even before the pandemic hit, the poorest large city in the country, Philadelphia, had already become a checkerboard of disinvestment and gentrification. In Georgia, 1.3 million renters—45% of the households in that state—were at risk of eviction this year. And in Arizona, the climate crisis and COVID-19 have ravaged entire communities, including the members of Indigenous nations who recently turned out to vote in record numbers.

That should be the mandate of our next government. And that’s why we, the overflowing millions, must harness the fusion politics that was so crucial to the election of Biden and Harris and organize in the best tradition of our predecessors. Real social progress rarely comes slowly and steadily, but in leaps and bounds. The predictable stalemate of the next administration and its Republican opposition can’t be broken by grand speeches in the House or Senate. It can only be broken by a vast social movement capable of awakening the moral imagination of the nation. It’s time to get to work.

The battleground states that won Joe Biden the presidency have also been battlegrounds in the most recent war against the poor.

New era of change This editorial includes exThe people of these states cerpts from a commentary that and 15 more helped elect first appeared in Tom Dispatch. Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, and count on one thing: with their votes, they were calling for more than just an end to Trumpism. They were demanding that a new era of

Letter to the Editor The truth is the United States lost this election What won was a constricted politics defined by the range between the GOP and Democrats, Trump and Biden. Voters chose between two similar fantasies differentiated by two names: a return to “greatness” vs a return to “normal.” It is ironic that Trump’s greatness and Biden’s normal both name the recent history that drove the U.S. to its current scary conditions. In the ever more hyped blame game that this election was, U.S. politics truly became “the evil of two lessers.” Fundamental questions actually confront the U.S. now. Is U.S. capitalism in terminal decline amid China’s ascendance? How do we do better than capitalism as our

economic system given its inequalities, instabilities, and gross failures to safeguard public health? How can we best undo capitalism’s environmental damage? What can really overcome the centuries of damage done to African Americans and other indigenous and People of Color via White supremacy? On such basic questions, this election’s major parties and candidates offered no engagement, let alone answers. The 2020 presidential election teaches, yet again, a basic lesson. Any real political choice requires competition (real dialogue and debate) among multiple parties with genuinely different positions on US capitalism and its relation to the fundamental questions. Only then can such

questions and the parties’ alternative answers to them become inescapable centerpieces of U.S. politics and subject to democratic decisions. Neither the establishments controlling the GOP and Democrats, nor the Trumps and Bidens among them, want real political party competition. They seek to retain their two-party monopoly and keep sharing power 100% between them. They are all integral parts of a declining system, one we must move beyond. Richard D. Wolff New York City

November 26—December 2, 2020

COVID

“What the science is showing is that people develop COVID within 14 days of exposure. That’s Continued from page 1 the incubation period. It will messaging but we have to do our either be growing and spreadpart,” said Adriene Thornton, in- ing throughout your body,” said fection preventionist at Childrens’ Thornton, who explained that this is the reasoning for the 14-day Minnesota. quarantine period for anyone suspected of being infected. Asymptomatic vs symptomatic Even if you are symptomatic, “The biggest problem I have with us [Black people] is we are if you follow the guidelines it limtrying to figure out ways to get its others' exposure. around it [safeguards]. I keep seeing notifications about come to Comorbidities/pre-existing this event or come to that event conditions People who have what are and we are going to be social distancing, but I see the pictures and termed as comorbidities or prepeople are sitting in booths eating. existing conditions—including “That’s entirely too close. Un- hypertension, diabetes, heart less you are with the person you disease, and chronic kidney dislive with, you shouldn’t be in ease—are at higher risk for havthere [social gathering] with all ing more serious complications if those people,” Thornton stressed. they contract COVID-19, includ“You can have COVID and not ing a higher risk of not recovering. know it. You can have it without People who are severely obese, even a runny nose, but still have smokers, and those with compromised immune systems are also COVID," she added. Thornton was referring to at greater risk, along with pregpeople who are asymptomatic, nant women. According to Thornton a cowho have COVID-19 without outward symptoms of the dis- morbidity is a chronic illness for ease. Symptoms of COVID 19 in- which there is no cure that people clude sore throat, loss of taste and have to live with all of their lives smell, chills, body aches, a cough, and impacts the way they live. muscle aches, fever and shortness Most of the time the illness can of breath. The asymptomatic per- only be controlled with medicason doesn't show these signs but tion. “So if people don’t take their is infected nevertheless and can medication, then that places them infect others.

FUND Continued from page 1 child of Dr. Michael Osterholm, director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy at the University of Minnesota. He, along with the St. Paul & Minnesota Foundation, hopes to raise money for the families of health care workers who have died due to COVID-19. According to Dr. Osterholm, the goal is to aid the families of “the real superheroes of the pandemic,” by helping with funeral costs, medical bills, college scholarships or any other expense a family might need help with. “Early on in the pandemic, we saw an increasing number of healthcare workers who were dying, leaving behind families that not only were suffering the loss of their loved one, but also in many cases had real economic challenges,” he said. “It was a way to give back to these people who have given so much, and I just wanted to help however I

AALF Continued from page 1 Based on data from Minnesota’s COVID Response, Black people are testing positive over at twice the rate of White people. Latinx people are testing positive almost three times more than White people. And Native, Hawaiian, or Pacific Islanders are testing positive 2.5 times more than White people. “As of this week, we are at a 10% positivity rate. That is not related to us increasing testing, that’s related to the fact that we are seeing more transmission occur in the community,” Thornton explained. After consecutive weeks of record-breaking COVID-19 positive cases in Minnesota, Gov. Tim Walz announced new restrictions that went into effect on November 20.

HOUSING Continued from page 1 are disproportionately People of Color ( 70%), even though 22% of the Twin Cities are People of Color.” “Among basic needs, (having) a place to call home, even if it is a temporary basis” is very important, reaffirmed MayKao Hang, Vice-President of Strate-

at higher risk. We all have relatives, aunts and uncles who say ‘My pressure is fine, so I stop taking my medicine.’ What happens when you don’t take it [medicine], now that comorbidity is not under control. Add that to COVID and that makes you at higher risk.”

Adriene Thornton Photo courtesy of Children's Minnesota Thornton encourages anyone having a comorbidity to take their medication and follow up with their doctor. She also encourages people who are at higher risk to get a flu shot. She said that it would be extremely difficult to fight COVID and influenza at the same time.

over 130 clients while infected, but none of their clients or co-workers contracted the disease. According to Thornton, both hairdressers wore their masks and their clients and co-workers did as well. “We know that wearing masks and social distancing works; we have the science to prove it,” she said. The best mask, according to the preventionist, is a mask with layers to it. “If you can blow out a candle with your mask on, it's not effective,” said Thornton. Bandanas are not as effective because they are thin and don’t have layers. According to the nurse, there is lots of misinformation about the disease. Taking a test and registering negative does not guarantee that one will be negative days later. “Just because you test negative today does not mean you will test negative tomorrow. It is just safer not to gather because we know people are not going to wear their masks the entire time,” continued Thornton. “They are not going to sit around with their masks on. They will have to take their masks off to eat.” Thornton has had personal experience with COVID-19; she contracted the disease in February and her teenaged son contracted it last summer.

Masks are effective Thornton shared an anecdote of the effect of mask wearing. She recalled a story of two local hairdressers who had tested positive for COVID-19 and worked with Vigilance necessary

Thornton attributes the increase over the last few months to several factors. “High ranking officials ignored the danger,” she noted. “We opened the schools back up. The results of that were when the kids went back to college they were out partying and so transmission went up right away. We had over 4,000 cases among K-12 students. How they got it is anybody’s guess. Adults could have given it to the kids; the kids could have been giving it to each other.” “Young people are thinking I may get COVID, but I won’t get that sick. That is true, but you could spread it to someone else,” said Thornton. Seniors from ages 80 to 89 have the highest rate of fatality. “You are doing this because you don’t want someone else to be sick. We have to get out of this me me me frame of mind and think of others. You don’t want to be that person that gives COVID to your 85-year-old neighbor or your aunt or uncle or grandparent and they end up dying as a result,” she warned. Thornton pointed out that Australia, which currently has a minimal amount of cases, has been much more successful at limiting the spread of COVID-19, and was not hit by a second wave like what has occurred in the U.S. “They put everything in place ear-

5

ly,” she stated. “Australians tend to have this us and we thinking, so when the government told them what had to be done, they said, ‘the government said we have to do these things’ so they did it,” said Thronton. “They are wearing masks. Their kids are in school and they have to go through certain checks. “Our biggest problem is we have not had a unified message from our government. I don’t know what it’s gonna take to get our people to listen. Should we get Barack Obama to talk to Black people to tell them to wear their mask?” mused Thornton. Dozens of interviews of families who have lost loved ones in this pandemic show them trying to come to terms with what some have termed the unfairness, unpreparedness, and lack of coordinated response that could have saved the lives of their loved ones. But they are all adamant about the importance of the living being vigilant and doing all they can to prevent COVID-19 from taking out others. Mel Reeves welcomes readers responses to mreeves@spokesmanrecorder.com.

COVID-19. According to Kaiser Health, health care workers of color are nearly twice as likely to contract the virus as their White counterparts. “Our goal is to take care of these families,” Dr. Osterholm said. “We can't make it right. What has happened here is for-

ever, and it's so painful. But we can do something to help.” The funds—which will be distributed on a rolling basis as they are received with the help of the Brave of Heart Fund—will be distributed based on need, with grantees receiving up to $10,000. A second, need-based grant with a focus on BIPOC families is intended to support awareness about those racial health disparities. The fund will begin administering scholarships in 2021. Jeremy Wells, the St. Paul & Minnesota Foundation's senior vice president of philanthropic services, understands what it means to lose a loved one to COVID-19. “I think all of us have a personal story about how we've been impacted by COVID,” said Wells. “Throughout all of those stories are the brave healthcare workers who have put themselves in harm's way to care for our loved ones. … And so I think we need to do whatever we can to support their families, because

they've been surrounded by such strain and sorrow.” The fund has raised over $320,000 from over a thousand individual donors. Peaches said she intends to apply to the Frontline Fund to help ease some of the financial burden she’s taken on since her mother’s death. Of course, it doesn’t help her miss her mom any less. “I miss her every day,” sighed Peaches. “Every time I'm driving somewhere or doing something and I remember when I spoke to her probably doing that same thing prior, I think about her. It’s just grief and disbelief that this could have happened, at this point.”

cious that people ask to make reservations for it in August, boasted the owner. Because of the pandemic, owner Marinta Schroedl is having to significantly downsize. “It’s just the five of us this year: my husband, myself and our three children,” she said. Not even her children’s partners will be present at the dinner. But this pandemic isn’t stopping Schroedl from feasting with people safely. In conjunction with Minnesota’s Blue Cross Blue Shield, Schroedl explained, “We had 58 people on Zoom last night where we delivered meals to their home, socially distant, and all of us had a meal together while having a conversation about our well-being,” Schroedl said. According to the Director of Health Equity at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota, Rosemead

Sarpong Owens, the health care insurer is the largest in the state with one out of three Minnesotans enrolled. Following the death of George Floyd, the company has pledged to listen to the community and take action against racial inequities. Blue Cross Blue Shield has begun hosting community conversation events as a way to encourage listening and combat systemic racism. Marita’s Table sends meals to participants and provides those in need with a tablet and Wi-Fi, so marginalized communities are able to participate and social distance, Schroedl said. This has become especially festive with the holiday season approaching. It isn’t encouraged to gather physically but technology has enabled people to still be together socially, despite distance. “Even

when we are physically distanced, you can still feel the connection,” said Owens. “Technology can be our friend,” Schroedl echoed. “On Wednesday, the day before Thanksgiving, I think I will be live in my kitchen… doing a few of my recipes.” Panelists made it clear that in order to minimize the spread of COVID-19, it’s important, especially during this holiday season, for everyone to do their individual part. Thornton explained that the reason the United States is struggling is because people are focused on their individual freedoms. “We are so egocentric and so focused on me, we don’t care how it impacts anyone else. We are going to do what we want to do regardless of what the guidelines say.” Encouraging others to social distance and setting personal

boundaries may curve the spread of this pandemic was the consensus among the panelists. “Being in a pandemic is like doing a group project at school,” Wright said. “I’m going to do my part but my partner may not do theirs and it may be bad for us.” “My recommendation is to make plates and do drive by visiting,” Garrett-Akinsanya concluded. “Wave from the window and talk from the porch, whatever you can do to make sure you’re safely distancing.”

many different kinds of housing situations,” adding that one half of his tribe population resides in the Twin Cities metro area, stated Strong. The state’s housing finance agency Minnesota Housing’s has adopted 14 strategic objectives designed to help POC in the area of housing, to be implemented over the next three years. The objectives include: a goal of having 35% of mort-

gages for first-time homebuyers awarded to households of color; addressing homeownership barriers; increasing access to rental assistance and increase more affordable housing. “It has been a priority in our administration,” said Minnesota Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan. “A lot of people who are living month to month, and paycheck to pay-

check. There are folk who are at risk of losing their housing to a whole lot of issues.” Vang said MPR is committed to bring to light on “issues that are impacted by racism” such as housing. “I think what is different now for us is that we are trying to make our coverage be more community focused. These issues of racism impact all of us, and not just the experts in the field.”

could.” He said another goal of the fund is to highlight and address the racial and socioeconomic disparities ravaging BIPOC health care workers across the country. Originally from Liberia, she belongs to the almost one in five health care workers who are immigrants and the over 25% who are Black women. BIPOC health care workers—especially women—have been further endangered by the shortage of personal protection equipment (PPE). An often deadly combination, these workers are 20% more likely than White health care workers to care for COVID-19 patients and they are more likely to report inadequate PPE. Though it is unknown where she contracted the virus, Larrydean’s case prompted an investigation from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration regarding whether or not she and her colleagues were provided adequate PPE during

their time at the hospital. A Kaiser Health analysis of deaths among health care workers found that 62% were People of Color, while a survey by National Nurses United has found that while only a quarter of nurses in the U.S. are People of Color, nurses of color account for half the deaths among nurses to

Thornton explained that about 63% of cases of community exposure have occurred in private residences. Small gatherings and get-togethers in homes are partially to blame for COVID-19 surges. “If you are going to be eating dinner, you surely need your plate over there, you can’t be sitting side by side like we used to,” said mental health professional Dr. GarrettAkinsanya. Traditional Thanksgiving will be put on hold for many this season to allow for social distancing and limited private residency exposure. “Similar to what happens at the table, everyone is invited in this pandemic to a new way of being, to rethinking the way we do holidays,” Wright added. Marita’s Table is used to hosting large Thanksgiving feasts so deligic Initiatives at the University of St. Thomas. She and Sam Strong, Tribal Secretary for the Red Lake Nation were forums panelists and spoke on their work on housing issues. “Racism, discrimination and bias is real,” continued Hang. “There is individual behavior (on behalf of landlords and others) on how people treat (someone trying to find housing).” “Native Americans live in

Dr Micheal Osterholm

University of Minnesota

Jasmine Snow welcomes readers’ responses to jsnow@spokesmanrecorder.com

AALF will be hosting its next meeting on Dec. 2 at 11:30 am (CT).Visit the organization’s Facebook page @aalfmn for more details. Amudalat Ajasa welcomes readers’ responses to aajasa@spokesmanrecorder.com. “The community has solutions. We need to be in community to find solutions together,” she concluded. Charles Hallman welcomes readers’ responses to challman@ spokesman-recorder.com.

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November 26—December 2, 2020

Business

Healthy beverage pays homage to rich family legacy Jajja Wellness Tonic

Black Business SPOTLIGHT By Ashley Lauren Contributing Writer If you’re looking for a tasty and healthy alternative to sugary beverages, Jajja Wellness Tonic might do the trick. Local entrepreneur Henry Kisitu launched the online beverage business in 2016 to honor his beloved grandmother Jajja Margaret Lutaaya. In Uganda, “Jajja” means

Jajja

grandmother. The wellness business pays homage to her plight and legacy. Kisitu’s grandmother passed in November 2016. She was well-known for creating indigenous and organic wellness tonics. “My recipes are my grandmother’s recipes. All African-inspired superfoods,” said Kisitu. Around that time, he said, “One of my college buddies

got sick in Hawaii; he came, I made the juices.” From that experience, Kisitu was instantly inspired to carry on the familial tradition of creating wellness tonics by launching a business. All of the products are natural, organic, and manufactured in St. Paul. They are available at various locations: The Wedge Co-op, City Center Market, Seward Community Co-op, Mississippi Markets, Produce Exchange at the Midtown Global Market, Longfellow Market, and Hampden Park Co-op. Kisitu is well-versed in business due to his educational background. He earned an undergraduate degree Henry Kisitu from the University of Minnesota and a master's from St. He recalled, “When I was Thomas College. in school, I was doing construction at the State Capitol.” As a result, he created certain tonics like the Agave Lemon Detox tonic to benefit active individuals. Most importantly, “The energy behind our product matters. It’s something that is ancient. Reminds me of home,” said Kisitu. As a result, he only utilizes high-quality, “health-building” ingredients. Kisitu shared that his children enjoy Jajja Wellness’ Hibiscus Lemongrass and Spirulina. The tonics have significant amounts of essential vitamins and minerals. Children enjoy the flavors and it’s very healthy for them. Customers have a total of nine refreshing tonics to enSubmitted photos joy, from Pineapple Ginger, Spirulina Ginger, Baobab Turmeric, Hibiscus Lemongrass, Moringa Ginger, African Coffee, Agave Lemon Detox, Turmeric Pineapple, and

products. This informative approach helps strengthen and grow his customer base. Most recently, due to the COVID pandemic and civil unrest, it’s been challenging for Kisitu to connect with customers. “A setback in business is not being able to do in-person marketing, Kisitu explained. “We can’t go out there and talk to people.” As a result, he shifted his business to abide by COVID safety protocol. “Mostly we’re growing a lot with word-of-mouth,” Kisitu continued. “We can’t do sampling in stores—COVID put the brakes on everything and pushed everybody to work at home.” Despite the COVID pandemic, business has been flourishing. Fortunately, “We’re selling a lot in stores. Still talking to co-partners to see if we can get people to market us,” said Kisitu. In closing remarks, Kisitu shared his philosophy and encouragement for young people. “Support yourself and be self-sufficient. Notice everything is connected.” He added, “Also, I think it’s very important to stress the importance of having purpose in life. Have a bigger purpose that will push you throughout. Every day I wake up for something.”

Pineapple Ginger. They are priced at $5 each. Customers can also order by the case. For individuals that need a boost of energy, the tonic wellness shots may serve as a superb solution. The small 2 oz. tubes of Jajja wellness shots come in two potent flavors Turmeric Pineapple and/ or Pineapple Ginger. They are priced at $3 per bottle. All of the tonics are organic and natural, unlike sweet and syrupy sodas. “African Coffee has a lot of vitamins in it. We use pineapple,” said Kisitu. He described it as, “refreshingly healthy, naturally energizing.” After sampling the rich, mahogany-hued coffee, I felt instantly energized Ashley Lauren welcomes and rejuvenated. readers’ responses to alauren@ Health and wellness is spokesman-recorder.com. the theme surrounding the business. “One of the things I do at my stands is educate For more info, visit www.jajpeople.” He informs custom- jawellness.com. ers about the ingredients he uses and the benefits of the

November 26—December 2, 2020

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DJ Ray Richardson’s last show By Travis Lee Contributing writer You could feel the electricity at 2123 West Broadway, the home of FM89.9 KMOJ Radio station. The evening of Sunday, Nov. 15 would be the conclusion of a 21-year run of Ray Richardson hosting the popular oldie’s music show called “Back In the Day.” During his tenure, Richardson created an old school music juggernaut of a format, complete with favorites like Battle of the Bands, trivia queries, music history, and plenty of participation from his army of call-in participants, who on his last show, expressed their sadness and appreciation. There was a constant flow of former and current KMOJ DJs and community standouts who came to the station masked-up and ready to pay

their respects to the “King of the Dusties.” DJs Derrick Delite Stevens, Disco Tee, Ms. Georgia, Freddy Bell, Spyder J, Hamilton, Q Bear, and Smoke, to name a few, got on the air to share stories, laughter, and goodwill. Well-known community activists Spike Moss and Tyrone Terrill also stopped by bearing gifts and well-wishes. Although Richardson has been known as a radio DJ who specializes in Chicago Steppers’ music for the past two decades, it was sports that brought Richardson to Minnesota. For 24 years, from 1990 to 2014, he wrote a sports column at the St. Paul Pioneer Press newspaper where he also retired. During his time at KMOJ, he has interviewed dozens of celebrities and promoters. When asked about his favorite interviews and songs

he gave the MSR two of his Earth, Wind, and Fire – “Fantasy” many coveted lists. Marvin Gaye – “Distant Lover” Ray Richardson’s top five Barry White – “Ecstasy” interviews: Jacksons – “Can You Feel It” Jeffery Osborne Kool and the Gang – Phillip Bailey “Summer Madness” Kenny Latimore Miracles – “I Can’t Stand to Charlie Wilson See You Cry” Star Jones Stylistics – “Payback Is A Dog” Elton John – “Bennie and the Jets”

Ray at the soundboard Ray Richardson’s top ten songs of all-time: Temptations – “My Girl” Spinners – “I’ll Be Around”

Why is Ricardson leaving KMOJ Radio and Minnesota? He optimistically explained that he wanted to be closer to his mother and other family members who live in Inglewood and other parts of the Los Angeles California area. But Richardson is by no means ready to retire and looks forward to the opportunity to finish the radio career he started while in Minnesota. For those wondering about

(l-r) Spike Moss, Ray Richardson, and Tyrone Terrill Photos by Travis Lee the future of the “Back in the Day Radio Show,” Richarson assured that the show rests in good hands. “Glamlife Kim will be taking over the show,” he confirmed. “She’s a radio veteran who knows her music and will add her twist to keep the program exciting. The Twin Cit-

ies are in great hands when it comes to the Oldies back in the day,” he said. Travis Lee welcomes readers' responses to tlee@spokesmanrecorder.com.

Who’s the mother of the blues? Better say Ma Rainey! MOVIE REVIEW: ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’ By Dwight Brown 1927. It’s a steamy Chicago summer, just like the rest. Hot. Humid. Even the streets are sweating. Ma (Viola Davis) comes up from Georgia to Chitown to make an album. Her quartet arrives before she does, practicing in a cramped recording studio rehearsal room. Cutler (Colman Domingo, “If Beale Street Could Talk”), the so-called bandleader, plays the

hard woman. Irvin to Ms. Rainey upon her arrival: “We’ll be ready to go in 15 minutes.” Ma, staring him down: “We’ll be ready to go when Madame says it’s ready to go.” Angst, anger, and rivalries intensify in the rehearsal room and recording studio, too. Adding to the drama, Levee can’t stop flirting with Dussie, and if Ma finds out, wow! Couple the trumpeter’s arrogance with Ma’s stank attitude and easily someone may

(l-r) Michael Potts, Colman Domingo, and the late Chadwick Boseman in “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” Courtesy of Netflix trombone. Toledo (Glynn Turman, “How to Get Away with Murder”) tickles the ivories on the piano. Slow Drag (Michael Potts, “The Wire”) gives the band its rhythm with his upright bass. The over-ambitious Levee (the late Chadwick Boseman, “Black Panther”) blows his trumpet. The rest of Ma’s entourage includes her coquettish, muchyounger lady friend Dussie Mae (Taylour Paige, “Zola”) while her 17-year-old nephew Sylvester (Dusan Brown, 42) drives her fancy car. Cutler tries to wrangle the musicians, but Levee resists and wants to arrange some songs, his new way. The older and younger band members quarrel, arguing about the slightest things. “I don’t criticize other people’s music,” Cutler said. Levee responded with pure insolence: “I do. I got talent!” Things aren’t going much better in the studio office. Irvin (Jeremy Shamos, “Birdman”), Ma’s tactful manager, tries to appease everyone while they wait for Ma, who is really late and holding up the session. Sturdyvant (Jonny Coyne, “The Blacklist”), the impatient producer is concerned about the cost of studio time. As businesslike and determined as the two men may be, they know not to upset their prickly recording star. She’s a

not survive the session. Will the album ever get recorded? If so, who will be its artistic director? The last one standing. Playwright August Wilson was a master of relationships, contentiousness, frayed emotions, and subplots on top of subplots. He deftly created rich characters who carried heaps of emotional baggage. Their thoughts were often disseminated in piqued dialogue, fervent interactions, and outbursts brought on by personal strife or racism. The kinds of themes surrounding Black life that were also shown in the other nine plays in Wilson’s “American Century Cycle” series. Equally telling of the times is the battle of wills between the self-confident Ma Rainey and her White manager and producer. It isn’t just about the tension inside; it was also about the racial friction out in the world. Blacks were being mistreated and sometimes massacred in 1920s Chicago. As the producers try to steer Ma— baiting her with the accomplishments of her former protégé, Bessie Smith—she puts them in their place. What she wants goes down—the easy way or the hard way. Wilson takes the essence of the self-empowered Ma Rainey, a real blues legend, surrounds her with fictional people and weaves a tale like a consummate story-

teller. Actor (TV’s “Billions”) and writer (“Lackawanna Blues”) Ruben Santiago-Hudson adapts Wilson’s 1982 play and it’s hard to distinguish what is new and old, even if you saw the original Broadway show. The premise, characters and some settings are the same. If there are tweaks in the dialogue none will be obvious, even to the most discerning theater fan. It’s the job of the screenwriter and film director George C. Wolfe (“Lackawanna Blues”) to make the source material cinematic. Not an easy task, but doable. Though there may be more sets and locations in this film version, many scenes are still stagey and dialogue-heavy. “Dangerous Liaisons,” “Amadeus” and Baz Luhrmann’s “Romeo & Juliet” took the big leaps from play to film, using the moving image medium to its best. Films like “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf” and “Glengarry Glen Ross” didn’t, but were excellent anyway. This film goes in that latter category. Also, the original play featured singing, though it is not a traditional musical. Here, there are times when Davis appears to be lip-syncing, apparently to Maxayn Lewis’s vocal tracks. Then there are instances when she sings with her own voice. Post-2012’s “Les Misérables” and its authentic live recordings, all of Davis’ vocals should have been live. The band can get away with playing to a track, but Ma can not—it’s distracting. The camaraderie between the characters and actors seems effortless. They have the congeniality of a surrogate family. Also, conversely, the hostility and jealousy befitting a real warring clan. All that makes Levee’s acting out and threats particularly scary and dangerous. Colman Domingo, Glynn Turman, and Michael Potts are the glue, playing older guys set in their ways, acting civil and demanding respect in return. Boseman’s Levee is the unrestrained interloper exploiting opportunities, dismantling tradition, and striking back at the world that hurt him. Boseman, with the agility of an extremely accomplished artist, acts both venomously ferocious and horrifically pained with equal conviction: “God ain’t never listened to a n---er’s prayers.” Ma’s strength, as depicted by Davis, is her keen ability to dominate. Her Rainey is belligerent, fiery, and explosive. As an unapologetic lesbian who owns her artistry and self-worth, she

Viola Davis as the formidable Ma Rainey overpowers everyone. Getting in the face of a disrespectful cop, hammering Irvin, and chugging a bottle of Coke like a longshoreman are indelible images. The footage is a gorgeous spectacle: The color spectrum (golds, beiges, olives, purples) flatters brown skin. Natty costumes by Ann Roth (The English Patient) and vibrant production design by Mark Ricker (Trumbo) add verve. Exterior shots glisten through the lens of cinematographer Tobias Schliessler (Dreamgirls). The film flies by

in 94 minutes thanks to Andrew Mondshein’s (The Sixth Sense) astute editing. Looking for a happy-golucky film? This isn’t it. Hate the overuse of the “N” word? Beware. Otherwise, fans of adult dramas will be amazed, even flabbergasted. In part due to Wilson’s astute observations on the human condition and race in America. In part because Boseman and Davis deliver performances so incendiary that if they’d done them on stage they

Courtesy of Netflix would have burnt the house down. “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” was released in select theaters November 25, 2020, and available on Netflix December 18, 2020. Visit NNPA News Wire Film Critic Dwight Brown at DwightBrownInk.com and BlackPressUSA.com.

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November 26—December 2, 2020

Our Doors Are Open for the Lake Street Community. We are proud to be back to build together with our neighbors.

November 26—December 2, 2020

9

New app tracking COVID-19 exposure now available in Minnesota Apple, Google partner for new app used by more than 20 states to slow the spread of the virus To help slow the skyrocketing spread of the coronavirus in Minnesota, Gov. Tim Walz announced on Monday the availability of a new COVID-19 exposure notification mobile application COVIDaware MN. The app is designed to help Minnesotans protect themselves and their loved ones. The voluntary, anonymous application will alert a user if another user with whom they have had close contact during the virus’ infectious period tests positive for COVID-19. “As we see a dangerous surge in cases across the state, we need to use every tool possible to cut off the spread of the virus,” said Gov. Walz in a statement. “COVIDaware MN gives our state a powerful and anonymous new tool to alert others we’ve had close contact with—even people we don’t know—and slow the spread of COVID-19.” “Knowing when we’ve been exposed to COVID-19 is a critical part of curbing the spread of COVID-19, especially as cases surge,” said Lieutenant Gov. Peggy Flanagan. “This app will help Minnesotans keep themselves

nesotans opt-in and follow health recommendations when notified of an exposure, we will slow the spread of COVID-19 and be one step closer to returning to many of the activities we miss so much.” When Minnesotans download the app and allow notifications, COVIDaware MN generates a random, privacyprotecting key for a user’s phone. The app does not track individuals’ locations or their positions relative to one another. Using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology, the user’s phone, and the phones of other users they are near anonymously exchange these privacy-protected keys. If a person receives a positive test, the Department of Health will provide a unique code the person may enter into the app, if they choose. If they enter the code, users with whom they’ve been within six feet for 15 or more minutes over a 24 hour period in the past 14 days will receive a notification of an exposure. COVIDaware MN will exchange random keys with anyone who downloads COVI-

Daware MN or similar applications developed by other states that use the same technology framework. “The COVIDaware MN app will supplement Minnesota’s COVIDAwareMN “This innovative technology contact tracing efforts, which typprotects the privacy of Minneso- ically rely on a person to rememtans and collects no data about a ber who they may have been in user,” said Minnesota’s CIO and contact with or places they have Commissioner of Minnesota IT visited while they were sick,” said Services Tarek Tomes. “If Min- Jan Malcolm, Commissioner of

and their families safe. I encourage all Minnesotans to opt-in and spread the word about this free, voluntary, and anonymous app.”

the Minnesota Department of Health. “With COVIDaware MN, Minnesotans can learn of an exposure to COVID-19 even when the exposure involves people they don’t know.” COVIDaware MN uses a

COVID-19 exposure notification technology developed by Apple and Google. More than 20 states and territories have launched apps based on Google and Apple’s exposure notification technology, including Alabama, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Guam, Hawaii, Maryland, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, North

Dakota, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Wyoming. More states are expected to adopt this technology as part of their COVID-19 response efforts. When Minnesotans download and use COVIDaware MN, they are helping others in the community make informed decisions about their health and are playing their part to slow the spread of the virus. The more individuals who download the app,

the more effective the tool will be to notify Minnesotans about potential exposures. The app was built with opensource software from PathCheck Foundation, a nonprofit founded at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, dedicated to containing COVID-19, revitalizing the economy, and protecting individual privacy and liberty. PathCheck’s digital pandemic response software is being used

by multiple states, territories, and countries. Minnesotans can learn more about the app on the COVIDaware MN website, and download it now from the Google Play or App Store. —Information provided by the Office of Tim Walz. Graphic courtesy covidawaremn.com.

10 November 26—December 2, 2020

BULLETIN Are you feeling the pinch of COVID-19? If you have been impacted by the pandemic and are struggling to pay your rent, VEAP can help. The organization supports people who live in the cities of Richfield, Edina, Bloomington and a portion of South Minneapolis (west of Cedar Avenue and south of 50th Street). Learn more about rental assistance eligibility requirements and other info by calling 952-888-9616.

Greater Friendship Missionary Baptist Church

Worship

MINNESOTA SPOKESMAN-RECORDER 3744 4th Ave. South • Minneapolis, MN 55409 Phone: 612-827-4021 • Fax: 612-827-0577

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Mount Olivet Missionary Baptist Church

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Legals STATE OF MINNESOTA COUNTY OF HENNEPIN

Employment DISTRICT COURT FOURTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

Court File Number 27-CV-20-13986 Case Type: Consumer Credit Contract Wings Financial Credit Union, successor of City-County Federal Credit Union by merger, Plaintiff, v. SUMMONS Saed A. Abdi, Defendant. THIS SUMMONS IS DIRECTED TO SAED A. ABDI. 1. YOU ARE BEING SUED. The Plaintiff has started a lawsuit against you. The Plaintiff’s Complaint against you is attached to this Summons or is filed with the Court. Do not throw these papers away. They are official papers that affect your rights. You must respond to this lawsuit even though it may not yet be filed with the Court and there may be no court file number on this summons. 2. YOU MUST REPLY WITHIN 21 DAYS TO PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS. You must give or mail to the person who signed this summons a written response called an Answer within 21 days of the date on which you received this Summons. You must send a copy of your Answer to the person who signed this summons located at: Lee W. Mosher, Attorney for Plaintiff 1120 East 80th Street, Suite 111 Bloomington, Minnesota 55420. 3. YOU MUST RESPOND TO EACH CLAIM. The Answer is your written response to the Plaintiff’s Complaint. In your Answer you must state whether you agree or disagree with each paragraph of the Complaint. If you believe the Plaintiff should not be given everything asked for in the Complaint, you must say so in your Answer. 4. YOU WILL LOSE YOUR CASE IF YOU DO NOT SEND A WRITTEN RESPONSE TO THE COMPLAINT TO THE PERSON WHO SIGNED THIS SUMMONS. If you do not Answer within 21 days, you will lose this case. You will not get to tell your side of the story, and the Court may decide against you and award the Plaintiff everything asked for in the complaint. If you do not want to contest the claims stated in the complaint, you do not need to respond. A default judgment can then be entered against you for the relief requested in the complaint. 5. LEGAL ASSISTANCE. You may wish to get legal help from a lawyer. If you do not have a lawyer, the Court Administrator may have information about places where you can get legal assistance. Even if you cannot get legal help, you must still provide a written Answer to protect your rights or you may lose the case. 6. ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION. The parties may agree to or be ordered to participate in an alternative dispute resolution process under Rule 114 of the Minnesota General Rules of Practice. You must still send your written response to the Complaint even if you expect to use alternative means of resolving this dispute. THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. Dated: October 29, 2020.

/s/ Lee W Mosher Lee W. Mosher Attorney License Number 007570X 1120 East 80th Street, Suite 111 Bloomington, MN 55420 Telephone 952-777-4253 Attorney for Plaintiff

Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder November 19 & 26 and December 3, 2020

STATE OF MINNESOTA OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 333 ASSUMED NAME: The Mistletones PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS: 720 Washington Ave S Minneapolis MN 55415 United States NAMEHOLDER(S): Name: Address: Christina Marlene Case 720 Washington Ave S Apt. 206 Minneapolis MN 55415 United States If you submit an attachment, it will be incorporated into this document. If the attachment conflicts with the information specifically set forth in this document, this document supersedes the data referenced in the attachment. 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/her behalf, 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: Christina Marlene Case MAILING ADDRESS: 720 Washington Ave S Apt. 206 Minneapolis MN 55415 EMAIL FOR OFFICIAL NOTICES: cmcase33@gmail.com FILED 10/20/2020 11:59 PM

From Classified STATE OF MINNESOTA COUNTY OF HENNEPIN Department/MN Spokesman-Recorder In re the Custody of A.D.A.

DISTRICT COURT FOURTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT FAMILY COURT CASE TYPE: CUSTODY

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Concepcion Alonzo Vail File No. 27-FA-20-5687 Petitioner, and FOR BILLING Luciano Diaz Ramos SUMMONS INQUIRIES Respondent. THE STATE OF MINNESOTA TO THE ABOVE-NAMED RESPONDENT, & TEARSHEETS LUCIANO DIAZ RAMOS, ADDRESS UNKNOWN: PLEASE CONTACT YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED AND REQUIRED to serve upon PetiACCOUNTING tioner’s attorney an answerDEPT to the Complaint which is herewith served upon you, within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons upon you, exclusive of the day of service. SUMMONS If you fail to do so, judgment by default will be taken against you for the relief demanded in the Paternity FLAT RATE $200 Complaint. Dated: October 7, 2020

RANDEN, CHAKIROV & GROTKIN LLC Rebecca A. Randen, I.D. No. 396082 On behalf of Volunteer Lawyer's Network Kara Rieke, I.D. No. 339489 Volunteer Lawyer's Network 600 Nicollet Mall, Suite 390A Minneapolis, MN 55402 rebecca@rcglawoffice.com kara.rieke@vlnmn.org (612) 281-2151 (612) 752-6649 ATTORNEYS FOR PETITIONER

Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder November 12, 19, & 26, 2020

Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State Certificate of Assumed Name Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 333 ASSUMED NAME: Victory Building Services PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS: 5310 W 16th St. #322 Minneapolis MN 55416 United States NAMEHOLDER(S): Name: Address: Berghoff Commercial 5310 W 16th St. #322 Cleaning LLCStates Minneapolis MN 55416 United States If you submit an attachment, it will be incorporated into this document. If the attachment conflicts with the information specifically set forth in this document, this document supersedes the data referenced in the attachment. 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/her behalf, 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.

From Classified

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Spokesman-Recorder PHONE: 612-827-4021 EMAIL FOR BILLING OFFICIAL NOTICES: eberghoff@victorybuildingservices.com FOR INQUIRIES Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder November 26 & December 3, 2020 & TEARSHEETS PLEASE CONTACT ACCOUNTING DEPT MAILING ADDRESS: 5310 W 16th St. #322 Minneapolis MN 55416

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From Classified Sr. AI Data Science Engineer Department/MN Sr. AI Data Science Engineer for Medtronic, Inc. at its Spokesman-Recorder

facilities located in Minneapolis, MN. Develops algorithms

and prediction models for diabetes administration and PHONE: 612-827-4021

Continuous Glucose Monitoring systems using large-scale datasets. Master’s Degree in Computer Science, BiomediFORcal BILLING Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Machine Learning INQUIRIES or a closely related field and two years of experience in & TEARSHEETS data mining and two (2) years of post-bachelor’s progresPLEASE CONTACT sive experience in all of the following: Statistical modeling ACCOUNTING DEPT analysis, t-tests, linear and logistic to include correlational regression; Machine Learning techniques to include decision trees/random forest, neural networks, feature selecSUMMONS FLATtion/reduction, RATE $200 clustering and parameter tuning; Scripting languages including using Python, R and Matlab and web applications with Python and Java; Time series modeling techniques to include ARIMA, Dynamic Regression and Neural Network Auto Regression; Deep Neural Networks to include Tensorflow and MXNet based technology modeling high dimension multi-variate models; Business intelligence and analytics including inventory and attrition prediction; Analytics on big scale database using tools to include Hadoop and HIVE; Data visualization software including Tableau and Google charts; Working in medical device environment including FDA regulations and (ISO) 13485. Position is eligible for telecommuting status from anywhere in the U.S. Apply at https://jobs.medtronic.com/, Req.20000JIH. Medtronic is an equal opportunity employer committed to cultural diversity in the workplace. All individuals are encouraged to apply.

From Classified Department/MN Spokesman-Recorder PHONE: 612-827-4021 FOR BILLING INQUIRIES Continued from page 12 & TEARSHEETS PLEASE CONTACT around a lot of Blacks … and ACCOUNTING going to MinnesotaDEPT around a

three team caps—the Wolves drafted him, then traded him to New York, who traded him to the Los Angeles Clippers—all in the same night. Minneapolis De La Salle grad Tyrell Terry (31st overall lot of Caucasian people” will be by Dallas) was the first Stanford ASSUMED freshman to be taken in the NBA a concern, heNAME believed. FLAT RATEis$150.00 Edwards the 13th college Draft, and the sixth Pac-12 fresh2freshman WEEK RUN selected with the top man overall, including Hopkins grad Zeke Nnaji (No. 22 overpick in the last 14 years. Leonard Hamilton (Florida all by Denver), who played at Pleaseand proof, respond with email confirmation to display@ Arizona. State) Penny Hardaway spokesman-recorder.com (Memphis) were the only Black

SOE

Globe-tracking the Lynx HCs to each have two lottery Mikiah Herbert Harripicks. Five first-rounders in this year’s Draft also were gan, Temi Fabenle and Erica McCall’s respective foreign coached by Black coaches. Eight players of Nigerian teams are in action this weekdescent were drafted for the end. Damiris Dantas posted a double-double (10 points, first time ever. Daniel Oturu was the first 13 rebounds) in her team’s Minnesota player drafted (33rd big win last week. overall by Minnesota) since Charles Hallman welcomes Kris Humphries in 2004. He might have been the first player readers responses to challman@ drafted last week who wore spokesman-recorder.com.

NAACP Legal Defense Fund, and Power The Polls to support the “We Got Next” poll worker FLATfrom RATE $150.00 Continued page 12 recruitment campaign, which 2 WEEK RUN Both the league and NBPA signed up 20,000 new poll workalso promoted greater civic ers. engagement expand vot-with email confirmation to dis play@ Pleaseand proof, respond Charles Hallman welcomes ing access and voter awareness spokesman-recorder.com ahead of the 2020 election, work- readers’ responses to challman@ ing with such voting advocacy spokesman-recorder.com. groups as More Than A Vote, the

Steve Simon Secretary of State

Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder November 19 & 26, 2020

State of Minnesota Ramsey County

11

District Court Second Judicial District Court File Number: 62HRCV20914 Case Type: Harassment

Notice of Issuance of Harassment Restraining Order by Publication Mahdi Aden Siarag Vs Khadar Muhumed To Respondent: YOU ARE NOTIFIED that a Harassment Restraining Order has been issued on 10/29/20.

x An order has been issued directing you to appear to a hearing on

December 3, 2020 at 10:15AM before Referee Clysdale for a Harassment Restraining Order Hearing and explain why the relief sought in the Petition for the Harassment Restraining Order should not be granted. You must contact the Ramsey County Court Administrator’s Office at 651-2665130 for hearing location details. You may obtain a copy of the Petition and any order issued from the court from the Ramsey County Court Administrator's Office. If you do not appear at the scheduled hearing, the Petitioner's request may be granted as a default matter. Failure to appear will not be a defense to prosecution for violation of the Court's Order. OR A hearing has not been scheduled. You may request a hearing on this matter by filing a Request for Hearing HAR301 with the Court within twenty (20) days of the date this Notice is published. You may get a copy of the HRO from the court administrator's office at the following address: JFJC, 25 W. 7th Street, St. Paul MN 55102. Failure to appear at a scheduled hearing or to get a copy of the Harassment Restraining Order will not be a defense to prosecution for violation of the Court's order. 6/29/2020 Court Administrator Ramsey

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November 26—December 2, 2020

Twins commit to social equity with new pact Gophers survive bank robbery at TCF!

Fitz Beat Larry FitzgeraLd

I

was there! I was witness to one of the worst officiated college games ever. Gophers win 34-31 over tough-luck Purdue. The Gophers are now 2-3 in the Big Ten and remain Bowl eligible. This week they travel to Madison to play 2-1 Wisconsin for Paul Bunyuns Ax. Wisconsin has already lost two games on the schedule because of COVID-19. The Gophers got their first home win at TCF Bank Stadium but not without controversy. I thought the crew did not do a consistently good job of officiating. Purdue Head Coach Jeff Brohm said he “did not like the call at all.” He did not get an explanation for the controversial offensive pass interference penalty. The call in question: Purdue tight end Payne Durham took a 19-yard touchdown pass that would have given

Purdue a 37-34 lead with .52 seconds left. Three different officials ruled three different things. One called it a touchdown, one threw a flag for interference, and the other said good play. I saw no contact at all—maybe the official was in a bad position and thought he saw a push-off. he Minnesota Twins The Gophers played the now have a new giving game without 20 players charter that furthers the who had tested positive for organization’s commitment to COVID-19. Line coach Brian social equity. Callahan was also out with “The Minnesota Twins will adCOVID-19. vance social equity by leveragI also thought Purdue had ing our resources to ensure every a touchdown just before the child has the same opportunity half by running back Tirek for success,” the charter pledged. Murphy. He made a nice “We will work to remove the catch in the corner of the end barriers to access traditionally zone for what appeared to faced by underserved children, to Educating Students), Boys be a touchdown. This time, especially Black, Indigenous, & Girls Clubs of the Twin Citafter further review, the re- and People of Color, along with ies, Urban Ventures, Youthlink, play officials said he did not other wrongfully marginalized Youthprise, and YWCA Minnesecure the ball. apolis. individuals or groups.” Again, I did not see why “We have been around youth Twins President Dave St. Pethat was not a touchdown. ter told the MSR, “We’ve been development for a long time,” St. Murphy clearly caught the actively involved in these areas Peter continued. “We have been ball and still had firm con- for a long time. I think that work operating the Twins Commutrol after going to the ground. certainly accelerated and [be- nity Fund since 1996, and a lot Also, I’m certain Brohm and came] more focused since the of that funding has been focused his staff felt the game was tragic killing of George Floyd. on youth development, particutaken away from them. It This isn’t new for us.” larly in urban areas. This work was clear the officials had a The team announced last isn’t new, just more focused, and rough night but nobody is week that they and the Minneso- more public. perfect. “The new giving charter that ta Twins Community Fund has Purdue is now 2-2 and the outlined $380,000 of initial gifts we created over the last several 2-3 Gophers play at Wiscon- to 26 local nonprofits, includ- months, I think provides that fosin on Saturday. ing ACES (Athletes Committed cus and really rooted in believing

T

Larry Fitzgerald is a longstanding contributing columnist at the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder. He can be heard weekday mornings on KMOJ Radio 89.9 FM at 8:25 am, on WDGY-AM 740 Monday and Friday at 9:10 am, and at www. Gamedaygold.com. He also commentates on sports 7-8 pm on Almanac (TPT channel 2). Follow him on Twitter at FitzBeatSr. Larry welcomes reader responses to info@larry-fitzgerald.com, or visit www.Larry-Fitzgerald.com. MN Athletics

Gophers are now 2-3.

Texas A&M’s Destiny Pitts was named to the Ann Meyers Drysdale Award watch list for the second straight season. The award annually recognizes the best shooting guard in women’s college basketball. Pitts joins All-American Chennedy Carter, now in the WNBA as the only A&M players to be associated with the award. Aggies Coach Gary Blair told reporters, including the MSR, last week that the Detroit-born Pitts might be the best threepoint shooter he’d coached, and that’s saying a lot since he had Carter, a scoring machine who just completed her pro rookie season. “She’s not going to hurt you with her blazing speed...but if you give her an open three, she is going to get a great look at it,” Blair declared about Pitts, in her first season at A&M after three seasons in Minnesota. “I really enjoy Destiny as a person more than anything,” Blair continued. “She’s been fun to get to know, a fun loving kid.” ESPN.com in its SEC preseason preview named Pitts its Newcomer of the Year. HBCU sports notes The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) released its 2020-21 men’s and women’s basketball schedule. It features a 16-game conference

slate, including 10 divisional and six cross-divisional contests

PreP Scene

Former Minnesota prep and college basketball standouts

beginning January 9 through February 20. The cross-divisional schedule, which runs through January 25, will include men’s and women’s doubleheaders. Maryland-Eastern Shore last week became the second MEAC school to cancel sports for 202021 due to the coronavirus. Bethune-Cookman opted out in October, cancelling all sports for the same reason.

The 2020 NBA Draft has come and gone. So rather than dwell on the player’s collegiate careers, feelings on being drafted, and the emotion accompanied with such moments of accomplishment—which have been written about before, since, during, and after the draft—let’s look back at the state championship runs in which each led their team, beginning a journey to professional basketball at the highest level. As a 6’11” senior, Nnaji led Hopkins to the Class 4A state

NBA draft ICYMIs The MSR asked top overall

Daniel Oturu Photo courtesy University of Minnesota Athletics

Destiny Pitts

The coalition is composed of five team governors, five Black players, and two Black coaches. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum and NBPA Executive Director Michele Roberts will serve on the coalition’s board. MinneNBA starts new coalition The NBA and National sota Timberwolves' Karl-AnthoBasketball Players Association ny Towns is among the group of (NBPA) announced the forma- players. The NBA Board of Governors tion of the National Basketball Social Justice Coalition. It will in early August announced a lead the league and the union’s $300 million initial contribution collective efforts to advance to establish the first-ever NBA equality and social justice, to Foundation dedicated to creatraise awareness, educate and ing greater economic empoweradvocate for meaningful reform. ment in the Black community. ■ See View on page 11 that we have a role to play . . . to help bridge gaps and opportunity that we can do by serving kids in the form of supporting organizations that are rooted in educating kids and their overall development,” St. Peter added.

Former prep stars drafted in the NBA

Dr. Mitchell PalMer McDonalD

Pitts recognized as one of the best

Courtesy of MN Twins

Photo courtesy of Texas A & M pick Anthony Edwards shortly after he was drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves on his relocating from Atlanta, the nation’s fourth-largest Black-majority city, to the Twin Cities, whose Black population is under 20%. “As long as they like me for who I am,” said the 19-year-old young man, who played one season at the University of Georgia. “I don’t think me being Black and being from Atlanta, and being ■ See SOE on page 11

Zeke Nnaji (Hopkins, University of Arizona), Tyrell Terry (DeLaSalle, Stanford University), Daniel Oturu (Cretin Derham Hall, University of Minnesota), and Tre Jones (Apple Valley, Duke University) have matured the past couple of years from leaders of their state championship teams to prestigious members of the NBA Draft Class of 2020.

Tre Jones

Photo courtesy Duke University Athletics

championship with a victory over 55-40 Lakeville North, scoring 14 points and grabbing 12 rebounds for the Royals. The center averaged 24.1 points and 9.4 rebounds per game. He was a first-round No. 22 pick drafted by the Denver Nuggets. The 6’2” Terry is a recent No.31 second-round draft pick of the Dallas Mavericks. In 2019, he scored 19 points and dished

out 10 assists to lead DeLaSalle to the 63-56 victory over Waseca to help the Islanders capture the Class 3A title. He was a contributor to the school’s 2016 and 2017 state championship teams during his four-year varsity career. Oturu, a 6’10” center drafted No. 33 in the second round by the Minnesota Timberwolves, led Cretin Derham Hall to the 2018 Class 4A state championship in dramatic fashion with a game-winning dunk with .05 seconds remaining to defeat a Jones-led Apple Valley team defending their title. Oturu was traded by the Wolves to the New York Knicks, who in turn traded him to the Los Angeles Clippers. Jones, a ‘6’2” guard and the most accomplished of the foursome, saw his high school career end with runner-up Class 4A finish in 2019, but the secondround San Antonio Spurs No. 41 pick accomplished quite a bit before then. He helped Apple Valley capture state titles in 2013 (eightgrade), 2015 (ninth-grade), and during his junior year in 2017 after scoring 24 points and grabbing 14 rebounds in a 60-54 victory over Champlain Park. It was quite an evening for Minnesota prep basketball. Addressing the media shortly after being drafted, Terry congratulated Nnaji, Oturu, and Jones on their draft selections while acknowledging its impact on the state of Minnesota. “To have us all be selected tonight is an extreme blessing. I congratulate those guys,” Terry said. “It does a lot for the state of Minnesota as far as recognition. I think Minnesota is on the comeup as far as talent goes in the basketball world. I hope the world kind of wakes up and realizes that now.” Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald welcomes reader responses to mcdeezy05@gmail.com.

Tyrell Terry Photo courtesy Stanford University

Zeke Nnaji Photo courtesy University of Arizona Athletics