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THE VOICE OF BLACK MINNESOTA SINCE 1934

December 25 - 31, 2025

Vol. 92

No. 21

Phone: 612-827-4021 www.spokesman-recorder.com

Ron Edwards honored for Pardon opens new chapter lifelong civil rights work for reformed gang leader By Jasmine McBride Editor

streets of Chicago and culmi‑ nated in his national recogni‑ tion as a restorative justice ason Sole, once leader. “I’ve always believed you’re marked by multiple convictions and gang in control of your own nar‑ affiliations, has re‑ rative,” Sole said in a recent ceived a full pardon, closing interview. “Don’t let circum‑ a chapter that began in the stances define you.”

Sole’s early life was shaped by hardship. Growing up in Chicago, his father struggled with heroin while his mother fought to keep the family to‑ gether. By his mid-teens, Sole was deeply involved in gang activity. At 15, he rose to a ■ See JASON on page 5

■ See ICE on page 5

Ron Edwards was honored with a memorial plaque at Fire Station 1 on 299 S. 5th Ave. on Dec. 19. Photos courtesy of Clint Combs/MSR By Clint Combs Contributing Writer

neapolis Fire Department and advocate for racial equity in public safety. Edwards, who died of natu‑ Civil rights activ‑ ist and longtime ral causes in 2020 at age 81, Minnesota Spokes‑ moved to Minneapolis from man‑Recorder col‑ Kansas City in the 1940s and umnist Ron Edwards was became active in the Civil honored with a golden me‑ Rights Movement during the morial plaque at Fire Station 1960s. He served as presi‑ 1 on 299 S. 5th Ave on Dec. dent of the Minneapolis Ur‑ 19, recognizing his decades ban League in the 1970s and of work to diversify the Min‑ joined the steering committee

for a consent decree in 1972 that required the fire depart‑ ment to hire more firefighters of color. The impact of that activism is seen today in a department that remains more diverse than many across the coun‑ try: about 14-16% of Minne‑ apolis Fire Department fire‑ fighters are Black, compared with roughly 8% nationally, ■ See RON on page 5

Jason Sole, restorative justice leader and entrepreneur, was fully pardoned on December 18. Eric Mueller

Proposed Netflix-Warner deal alarms Black filmmakers By Lizzy Nyoike Contributing Writer s major media companies con‑ tinue to consoli‑ date, Black film students say they worry about whether there will be space for their voices in an indus‑ try increasingly controlled by fewer decision-makers. Reports and speculation surrounding a potential Netf‑ lix acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery have sparked con‑ cern across the entertainment industry, particularly among emerging Black filmmakers. For students studying film, consolidation raises questions not only about on-screen rep‑ resentation, but about access, opportunity and creative free‑ dom behind the scenes.

“All the money in the world that studios give, along with their restrictions, shouldn’t be worth sacrificing our creative and personal freedom.” “Accessibility is continu‑ ing to dwindle,” said Wanjiru Mbuthia, a filmmaker, actress and co-founder of Dreamy Mango Studios, a women-ofcolor-founded film collective. “Producing and directing my own projects has been much more beneficial and easier to do with my friends.” Mbuthia, a student at Northeastern Illinois Univer‑ sity, said consolidation limits access at every level of the in‑ dustry. She hopes her creative work can help expand oppor‑ tunities for independent film‑

She also expressed concern struggle to get support,” she Despite those concerns, makers, whose potential she Journalism, said consolidation concentrates decision-making Norris said Black filmmakers about how Black stories are said. believes is often overlooked. Still, both Mbuthia and “There are not a lot of spac‑ power and narrows opportu‑ are not lacking in preparation framed by mainstream studios. “Black film and TV are rarely Norris see possibility in com‑ or talent. es or theaters that show indie nities for diverse voices. “We’re honestly overpre‑ depicted outside of struggle,” munity-driven storytelling and “As you saw with the de‑ or short films,” she said. “I’d like my studio to help curate cline of NBC Black and layoffs pared at this point,” she said. Mbuthia said. “We don’t see digital platforms that allow enough stories of us just existing.” filmmakers to reach audiences those events and build the affecting Black employees “All we need is the platform.” That reality, she said, makes directly. She pointed to filmmakers at studios, there’s a push to spaces we hope for.” For Mbuthia, filmmaking is about more than entertain‑ ment. She said she wants to create media that feels ac‑ cessible, safe and inclusive for communities often excluded from mainstream storytelling. In a written statement, Mbuthia referenced com‑ ments made by producer and writer Issa Rae, who has spo‑ ken publicly about the difficul‑ ty of getting projects funded or promoted at the same level as sequels, reboots and bigbudget releases. “If it’s hard for her, and she’s been planting roots in this industry for Black creatives, then it will be even more dif‑ ficult for smaller organizations and collectives,” Mbuthia said. Rather than relying on ma‑ jor studios, Mbuthia said in‑ dependent film communities must continue building their own networks of support. “We have our own stories Black film students say industry consolidation, including a potential Netflix–Warner Bros. Discovery deal, could further limit we want to tell,” she said. “We access and creative freedom for emerging Black filmmakers. don’t have the backing of big studios, but we can still create As Hollywood reshapes together and share resources.” centralize power,” Norris said. such as Spike Lee and Will it difficult to trust that cor‑ Networking and self-pro‑ “When power sits with fewer Packer, both graduates of his‑ porate mergers will lead to itself, Black film students say the issue is no longer motion have become essential people, you narrow the scope torically Black colleges and meaningful change. “Representation on boards only about who gets hired or survival tools for independent of ideas and open-minded‑ universities, as examples of creators who built influential alone isn’t enough,” she said. funded, but who is allowed creators, she added, even as ness.” Norris hopes to work as a careers despite limited institu‑ “Someone has to take a chance to imagine freely. For emerg‑ access to consistent audienc‑ ing filmmakers, the future of on our stories.” local reporter or video jour‑ tional support. es remains limited. While founding a women- Black representation may de‑ For Mbuthia, the challenge “All the money in the world nalist after graduation, but that studios offer, along with said consolidation could have is further complicated by in‑ of-color-led film collective has pend less on corporate prom‑ their restrictions, shouldn’t be lasting effects on film and tersecting identities and sys‑ been empowering, Mbuthia ises and more on whether said funding and promotion space is made for stories that temic barriers. worth sacrificing creative and television. exist beyond stereotypes. “It’s already hard to get your remain major obstacles. “With Netflix becoming a personal freedom,” Mbuthia said. “It’s disheartening to see Morgan Norris, a video dominant distributor, a lot foot in the door as a filmmak‑ Lizzy Nyoike is a Hubbard and broadcast master’s de‑ of mediocrity could seep er,” she said. “When you add how much money is spent gree student at Northwestern through,” she said. “Valuable other parts of your identity, it on reboots and sequels while School of Journalism & Mass smaller, meaningful projects Communication student. University’s Medill School of stories risk being overlooked.” becomes even harder.”

2 December 25 - 31, 2025

Metro

spokesman-recorder.com

Cedar-Riverside neighbors show up, deter ICE dar-Riverside neighborhood those people know because I has become a cultural hub see them in the middle of the of Somali and African cul‑ night watching and pacing in ture, with many opening lo‑ the neighborhood and pro‑ cally owned restaurants and tecting our community.’” Elected officials also spoke, businesses. Data shows the neighborhood has a large including state Senator Omar population of Black residents, Fateh, Minneapolis City Coun‑ making up 57% of its popula‑ cil member Aurin Chowdry, tion, and 32% of residents are and others. “With our current separa‑ non-U.S.-born citizens. “All Americans have en‑ tion ordinance, we’re mak‑ riched the state,” said Jaylani ing it extremely clear that no Hussein, executive director city employee, especially our of CAIR-MN. “We have been own law enforcement, will be part and parcel to the net engaging in any federal im‑ growth of the state’s popula‑ migration law enforcement,” tion and state wealth. Most Councilmember Chowdry said. importantly, we have been The Minneapolis City Council able to add a little bit more fla‑ recently passed an updated vor to the Lutherist-filled land.” separation ordinance, which Omar Fateh speaking With the recent terror of prohibits Minneapolis law en‑ ICE raids, many of these shops forcement from assisting in “Thank you for keeping us in‑ have been forced to close immigration operations. This formed as your local elected early or have lost a significant includes creating traffic pe‑ officials. It is helpful, and it number of customers in the rimeters or using city facilities keeps things running. And I’m really looking forward to see‑ past three weeks. The orga‑ to stage arrests. “I’ve been seeing you show‑ ing all of you out there in Ce‑ nizers of Saturday’s event en‑ Neighbors clapping couraged attendees to go out and support local businesses The event took place at the rant. They temporarily de‑ in Cedar-Riverside after the Brian Coyle Neighborhood tained one U.S. citizen and community hall and thanked Center, giving local neighbors subsequently released him those who have already been a place to socialize and escape and left, but the incident left standing with their Somali neighbors, whether by pa‑ freezing temperatures. Many residents frightened. trolling their streets or keep‑ Cedar-Riverside residents ing watch at local mosques spoke about the ongoing raids “These raids do so people can continue their and how the fear of being tar‑ prayers without fear. not just remove geted by ICE has impacted “I urge all of us to leave here, their everyday lives. people. They strip walk to the neighborhood, “I see parents and friends too scared to leave their entire communities and start ordering things from them,” Hussein added. “There homes, children scared that of safety, dignity, are great restaurants here. a normal school day can end This neighborhood has been and peace with their family being torn home to so many different apart,” said Cedar-Riverside “These raids do not just re‑ communities. I’ve been so im‑ resident and college student Sudiva Mohammed. “What move people. They strip entire pressed. “I had a woman yesterday College student Sudvia Mohammed hurts most is knowing that no communities of safety, dignity, matter how American my life and peace. They leave lasting tell me after prayer, ‘Please, has been, my existence is still trauma, especially for those of please, tell them, thank you.’ ing up and pulling up to apart‑ dar-Riverside supporting our us who are born here,” said a I was saying, yes, we were ment buildings where ICE is immigrant-owned businesses being questioned.” going to tell them. And she just hanging around trying to today.” Mohammed is currently resident. Reports of residents across Since the 1990s, the Ce‑ said, ‘No, make sure you let get in,” Chowdry continued. studying elementary educa‑

By Izzy Canizares Contributing Writer

tion and is a second-genera‑ tion immigrant. “Being Somali means being watched,” she Cedar-Riverside residents said, “being profiled and treat‑ and state legislators gathered ed as if we are always one step for a community hall meet‑ away from being deported.” The community hall came ing on Dec. 13 to discuss the increase in ICE’s raids across days after ICE agents attempt‑ Minnesota, and how they can ed a raid on Cedar-Riverside’s support their Somali and Afri‑ Hook Fish and Grill. Agents can American neighbors both began confronting residents, on the streets and in their lo‑ checking IDs, and would not let anyone leave the restau‑ cal businesses.

Mpls ICE arrest devolves into chaos By Izzy Canizares Contributing Writer

The initial observer said she pulled over after seeing two ICE vehicles had boxed in On Monday afternoon another car and were yelling December 15, ICE officers at the two occupants. More attempted to arrest two indi‑ witnesses quickly gathered at viduals on the 2800 block of the scene, where at one point Pillsbury Ave. in Minneapolis agents were seen throwing a but were interrupted by resi‑ woman, who was an observer, dents who quickly showed up to the ground and tasering her. at the scene. Residents began filming, blowing whistles, and “They just were publicly shaming the officers. The incident resulted in at deploying chemical least four people being arrest‑ irritants without ed and multiple injuries, in‑ cluding a state representative, issuing warnings to before the scene was cleared by local law enforcement, the crowd.” bringing to light both ICE’s “They tasered her as she seeming lack of de-escalation training and the effect pro‑ was running away,” the initial observer said. “They ran af‑ testers are having on agents. “They were super nervous ter her, the two agents that I about what was going on.” said could see. One agent kneeled one observer who witnessed on top of her and cuffed one the initial stop. “They kept on of her hands. People were calling in for reinforcements, saying that she was pregnant but they weren’t showing up. and to leave her alone.” The scene quickly turned They kept on being like, where chaotic, as bystanders are the f*** are the backups?”

Hennepin County officers responding and clearing the area.

seen on video surrounding agents. At one point she is seen being dragged on the ground as the officers try to hide from snowballs and wa‑ ter bottles being thrown at them. They let her get away. The two people initially stopped were later detained, along with two U.S. citizens, for “assaulting federal officers,” according to DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. More ICE officers responded and began to hit people with batons. Officers continued pepper spraying into the crowd, with one person being sprayed point-blank. “They maced me right in my face. I couldn’t see anything for like 10 minutes,” witness Lauryn Spencer said. Accord‑ ing to Spencer, she saw the growing scene while driv‑ ing and stopped to record when she saw a woman being dragged through the street. Spencer’s video shows one agent brandishing a weapon at the crowd, while the other

Photos by Izzy Canizares the Twin Cities patrolling the streets and sending out alerts where ICE is active have been increasing, and while ICE agents continue to detain people, these local volunteers have successfully chased away agents, preventing some from being arrested. “Yesterday I was praying at one of the mosques, and we saw a large number of nonMuslims standing outside as protectors to make sure that folks have the right to peace‑ fully pray on Friday, which was really touching and really, really good,” Senator Omar Fateh said. “Despite what we’re seeing from our federal government and our president, the divisive language calling us garbage, and saying that he wants to send us all back, we are here to say that not only are we not going back, we’re going to stand for one another.” Izzy Canizares welcomes reader responses at icanizares@ spokesman-recorder.com.

been concentrated in Black immigrant communities.” Despite the many people who were chemically attacked, residents stood their ground, refusing to let ICE officers leave, causing them to call for backup from MPD and Hen‑ nepin County’s Sheriff’s Office, who both responded to the scene despite a city ordinance that states MPD does not as‑ sist in immigration operations. Regarding the police de‑ partment’s response, MPD Sargent Garrett Parten said they responded to an “officerneeds-help” call and “imme‑ diately responded and con‑ firmed there was no one being assaulted and no life-safety conditions that warranted fur‑ ther involvement.” Sargent Parten said MPD cleared the scene in “less than 10 minutes,” and that their of‑ ficers had not arrested anyone. The Hennepin County An Ice agent pinning a woman to the ground, captured by an Sheriff’s Office took to Face‑ anonymous witness book in response to their in‑ volvement, releasing the au‑ sprays others close. “I think chemical deterrents for crowd dio of a caller from Homeland what ICE is doing is horrible, control, says this is not new Security who stated “several and the only way we are going in Minneapolis’s Black-immi‑ times” that agents were sur‑ rounded and “being attacked” to get them to stop is to docu‑ grant community. “We went through this con‑ by “60-70 agitators,” but left ment them and resist their sent decree process because soon after responding. fascism,” Spencer said. The community support State representative Aisha there was a pattern of dis‑ Gomez was also maced after criminatory policing in Minne‑ has left ICE authorities rattled, she responded to the scene apolis. And one of the things with Homeland Security As‑ and tried recording. “You that came out of that was sistant Secretary for Public could tell they were not well- the directive that chemical ir‑ Affairs Tricia McLaughlin post‑ ritants are not to be used on ing “This dangerous riot is trained. “I was just standing and ob‑ crowds unless authorized by the direct result of sanctuary serving, recording them with those higher up in MPD,” Go‑ politicians and the media em‑ boldening rioters to engage in my phone, and I wasn’t issued mez said. “I’m very concerned be‑ violent and unlawful behavior, any directions or any requests that I move back,” Represen‑ cause it reveals a lack of undermining the rule of law tative Gomez said. “They just proper training when you and putting officers and the were deploying chemical ir‑ have agents in that kind of public at risk.” ritants without issuing warn‑ situation, just indiscriminately Izzy Canizares welcomes using chemical irritants on ings to the crowd.” Rep. Gomez, who has crowds. Many of these larger reader responses at icanizares@ long critiqued MPD’s use of demonstrations of force have spokesman-recorder.com.

spokesman-recorder.com

December 25 - 31, 2025

Health

Where help is always open: MARI Safe Station Sponsored by

HELP IS HERE

worn down by cycles of ad‑ diction. “Multiple people come through our doors,” she said, including Black, Latino, mul‑ tiracial and other community members who have often been underserved or turned away by traditional systems of care.

What happens when someone walks in At Fire Station 14, the first priority is safety and stability. At any hour of the day or In many cases, visitors com‑ night, a person struggling plete a substance-use assess‑ with addiction can walk up ment and are connected to to Minneapolis Fire Station detox or treatment options. 14 on Lowry Avenue North, But Simmons said no one is knock on the window and required to commit to full in‑ be welcomed inside; not for take in order to receive sup‑ judgment or paperwork, but port. “Sometimes they don’t do for help. That’s the idea behind the an assessment,” she said. “We MARI Safe Station, a low- do assessments and connect barrier, walk-in access point them, but we also meet imme‑ for people seeking support for diate needs.” That can include water, substance use disorder. The station operates through a food and overdose reversal partnership between the Min‑ medication. “We also distribute Narcan neapolis Fire Department and Twin Cities Recovery Project, when necessary,” Simmons said. The low-barrier approach connecting residents to detox services, recovery navigation matters in a crisis where many and ongoing peer support, people use substances alone, while also offering harm-re‑ experience housing instability duction tools intended to pre‑ or cycle through short-term in‑ terventions without sustained vent overdose deaths. “We are a safe space and support. Simmons described an opioid response unit,” said the station as both a front door Catherine Simmons, a certi‑ into treatment and a consis‑ fied peer recovery specialist at tent point of contact that can the MARI Safe Station. “They “plant the seed” for someone knock on the window. We who may not be ready today, but could be tomorrow. open. We welcome them in.” By Scott Selmer Assigning Editor

Simmons said the Safe Sta‑ tion is designed for real-life circumstances: people arriv‑ ing directly from the street, people referred through sys‑ tems such as probation or child protection, and people

The link to Twin Cities Recovery Project Simmons emphasized that the MARI Safe Station is not separate from Twin Cities Recovery Project, but deeply

The MARI Safe Station, located inside Minneapolis Fire Station 14, is open 24 hours a day for walk-in support. Visitors can request help connecting to detox and recovery navigation or access harm-reduction supplies and information. Courtesy rooted in it, serving as a con‑ nection point into a broader recovery network. “I’m including the Twin Cit‑ ies Recovery Project, all three sites,” she said, describing the infrastructure behind the sta‑ tion. She described the model as a shared village: firefighters, peer recovery specialists and community partners aligned around one goal: connecting people to care quickly and sustaining that support long enough for real change. “It is a relationship between the fire department and Twin Cities Recovery Project,” Sim‑ mons said. “It’s a village of two organizations that came together to help the commu‑ nities they serve.” She credited Twin Cities Recovery Project leader LaTri‑ cia Tate with shaping a recov‑ ery model that meets people where they are.

“I was a drug dealer,” she said, recalling a night that ended with her waking up in jail. She said she was told she had fought multiple officers and could face years behind bars. Instead, she said a judge gave her three days to decide “It’s a village of her next step. organizations On the third day, Simmons coming together said she went to Chrysalis Women’s Center, completed a to help the Rule 25 assessment and com‑ communities mitted to sobriety. we serve.” “I’ve been sober ever since,” she said, marking her sobriety date as Aug. 11, 1995. Her approach with clients A peer specialist with is direct and rooted in honesty, lived experience Simmons speaks about a style she believes resonates recovery not as an abstract with people tired of lectures. “There’s no way I can walk concept, but as someone who has lived it. She said she has in your shoes,” Simmons said, been in recovery for 30 years, “but I can walk alongside you.” For families watching loved raised by parents who were also in recovery, and traces ones struggle, Simmons said her own turning point to a the Safe Station can serve as a first step, even if the in‑ moment of forced clarity. “When you talk about what LaTricia Tate does at Twin Cit‑ ies Recovery Project,” Sim‑ mons said, “the MARI station reflects that work.”

dividual isn’t ready for treat‑ ment. The focus, she said, is connection. “We are here for you when you’re ready,” she said. For more information, you can reach the MARI Safe Station by email at marisafestations@gmail. com, by phone at 612-442-2221, or by stopping by 2002 Lowry Ave. N., Minneapolis. Help is Here is a partnership between MSR and Hennepin County created to highlight local organizations committed to the recovery and education within underserved communities surrounding opioid addiction. For more information, visit our website at www. spokesman-recorder.com under the tab “Help is Here.” Scott Selmar welcomes reader responses at sselmer@spokesman-recorder.com.

Shopping for healthy toys By Angel Pine and Tehreem Khan During the holiday season, many parents search for toys that support healthy develop‑ ment. The brain grows fastest in the first three months of life, with the second-fastest period occurring between three and six months. This rapid growth makes early ex‑ periences and interactions es‑ pecially important. Hugh Cheek, M.D., assis‑ tant professor in the Division of Academic General Pediat‑ rics at the University of Ala‑ bama at Birmingham, reminds families that the most mean‑ ingful gifts are rarely hightech. The toys that matter most help children connect, imagine, and engage with the world around them. Presence is the best toy Co-play and face-to-face interaction shape communi‑ cation, emotional growth and problem-solving. Play, wheth‑ er a child plays alone, with peers or with caregivers, sup‑ ports brain development and early language skills. “Look for toys that create face-to-face interaction and back-and-forth play between parents and their children. That is where so much of the developmental growth hap‑ pens,” Cheek said. “Simple toys like blocks, puppets, dolls and cardboard boxes spark creativity and shared engagement. When parents join in, they strength‑

Thoughtful options in‑ gests opting for toys that help clude: sensory-friendly toys, hand-eye coordination and vi‑ washable art supplies or mu‑ sual development and avoid‑ sic-making toys, movement- ing screens, as prolonged ex‑ “Screens are two dimen‑ be meaningful. A library card based toys, building sets, and posure can cause eye fatigue, en the connection and gain experiences eye irritation and headaches. insight into their child’s inter‑ sional and promote passive at‑ gives families access to book activity-based “There are many toys for all tention. With active attention, rentals, group reading time, like zoo passes or art classes. ests.” When unsure, asking fami‑ age levels that are good for de‑ lies what their child enjoys en‑ veloping eye-hand coordination sures the gift is appropriate. “A and perceptual development child’s chronological age does — think sports-related puzzles, not always match their devel‑ blocks, anything that requires opmental ability,” Cheek said. pattern recognition. Others can “Asking parents what works include crafts and creative visu‑ best is always the right place alization,” Oechslin said. to start.” If a child sustains an eye in‑ Safety risks jury from toys, parents should Most toy-related injuries contact their family eye care are minor, but some toys can professional. If a foreign body be dangerous if poorly made is in the eye, it is best to leave or used incorrectly. Parents it for a professional to re‑ can reduce risks by choosing move so that further damage sturdy toys, checking labels, does not occur. Even if it is a and being mindful of small hit to the eye, such as with a parts. Families can also vis‑ ball or other blunt object, an it recalls.gov for updates on eye injury should be taken se‑ recalled toys. riously as there may be inter‑ nal damage that is not initially obvious.

The brain grows fastest in the first three months of life, and this rapid growth makes early experiences and interactions especially important. Ian Logue. UAB Effects of screen time Screens may seem educa‑ tional, but they offer fewer developmental benefits than families expect. Screens promote passive attention, reduce natural language ex‑ change, and can make transi‑ tions away from devices dif‑ ficult. Books, imaginative games, and physical activity provide the sensory input and realworld interaction children need. Talking through the pages of a book offers more meaningful learning than any app.

we use all of our senses. That is what children really need for healthy brain develop‑ ment,” Cheek emphasized.

story hours and book fairs. Other options such as a par‑ ent-child yoga class, dress-up clothing, audiobooks, and au‑ dio story devices encourage creativity and shared experi‑ ences without screens.

Budget-friendliness Many effective toys are inexpensive and open-ended. Pots and wooden spoons be‑ Neurodivergent children Choosing gifts for neurodi‑ come instruments. Cardboard tubes become building materi‑ vergent children begins with als. Crayons and paper support understanding their needs creativity and fine motor skills. and sensory preferences. Budget-friendly favor‑ Their developmental stage, ites include: wooden blocks, not just age, should guide gift simple train sets,art supplies, choices. Items that support puzzles, board gamesB , build‑ comfort, communication or ing sets and play kitchen sets emotional regulation can be Activity-based gifts can especially helpful.

“Read, sing and talk with them. That is what supports their development the most.”

What matters most Parents and caregivers re‑ main the strongest influence on a child’s development. Toys that promote imagination, connection, and hands-on ex‑ ploration offer far more lasting value than flashing gadgets or screens. “Before children ever say a word, they are taking in so much through their senses. Read, sing and talk with them. Surround them with real experi‑ ences and real connection. That is what supports their develop‑ ment the most,” Cheek said.

Key things to watch for include: small choking haz‑ ards, button batteries or loose magnets, toys that shoot pro‑ jectiles, weak plastic that may break, and stuffed toys with loose parts or strings Common toy injuries in‑ clude eye injuries. Tamara Oechslin, O.D., Ph.D., asso‑ This story was first published ciate professor at the UAB in the Birmingham Times. It has School of Optometry, sug‑ been edited for length.

4 December 25 - 31, 2025

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Finance

spokesman-recorder.com

Celebrate your financial new year A Q&A with Twin Cities Community Manager Kayla Blain

in the new year. Anyone can workshops, I break down the visit their local Chase branch basics: why it’s important to and ask about getting access know your credit score, how to a financial health check-up to check it, and simple steps at no cost, available to all, no you can take to improve it, As 2025 draws to a matter who you bank with. like paying bills on time, keep‑ close, it’s a great time to Our teams live, work, and are ing balances low, and avoiding reflect on the year and set rooted here, and we are deep‑ unnecessary debt. We also yourself up for success in ly committed to uplifting the talk about how your credit 2026. Whether you’re build‑ communities and serving our score can be a steppingstone ing new habits or refining your to achieving your biggest neighbors every day. financial strategy, Kayla Blain, goals. My advice? Don’t shy As community manager, I’m Chase Community Manager in away from learning about focused on financial educa‑ Minneapolis-St. Paul, shares credit. The more you under‑ tion and community part‑ practical tips to strengthen stand, the more control you nership to help strengthen your financial health journey. have over your financial future. financial health journeys. I Kayla Blain, Chase community Q: What’s been a key finan- manager in Minneapolis-St. Paul cial health learning for you in Courtesy 2025? A: This year, I’ve been really your money is going and inspired by the enthusiasm helps you steer toward your in the Twin Cities for finan‑ goals. Take a little time each cial education. People here month to track your income aren’t afraid to dream big, and expenses. When you set buy a home, save for retire‑ a budget that truly reflects ment, plan for college, or grow your priorities, you’re not just their business, and are really managing money, you’re em‑ excited about the process to powering yourself to make get there. One of the most confident decisions • Saving doesn’t have to rewarding parts of my job is helping connect them with be overwhelming. Even small, the tools and knowledge to consistent deposits can grow turn those dreams into reality. into something meaningful One trend that stands out over time. Try automating your is the increasing complex‑ savings so it happens without ity of fraud and scams. These you even thinking about it, like can have a serious impact on paying yourself first. Watching anyone’s financial wellbeing. your savings grow, no matter That’s why I’ve made it a prior‑ the amount, is a powerful way ity to host workshops focused to build financial security and host free workshops on es‑ Q: How can neighbors get insential topics like budgeting, volved and benefit from your on fraud prevention: cover‑ peace of mind. • Your credit score is more saving, building credit, and community work? ing the latest scams, warning A: Getting involved is easy, signs, and practical steps to than just a number. It’s a key preventing fraud and scams. help safeguard your personal that can unlock new opportu‑ These workshops are open and it can make a real differ‑ information. Staying informed nities, from buying a home to to all, not just Chase custom‑ ence in your financial journey. and proactive is the best way starting a business. Strength‑ ers, and can help you start the We have Community Manag‑ to keep yourself and your en your credit by paying bills new year on the right foot. ers in every state and D.C., all dedicated to supporting their on time and keeping your bal‑ loved ones safe. Q: What financial health ini- local neighborhoods. Our free ances manageable. tiatives are you excited about workshops cover essential Q: As the year wraps up, what topics like budgeting, saving, should the Twin Cities com- Q: What are some tips for in 2026? A: I’m especially excited to building credit, and protecting munity keep in mind about your neighbors to start the new year on the right finan- help demystify credit for our yourself from fraud and scams. their finances? community. Credit can feel These sessions are open to A: The new year is a fresh cial foot? A: No matter where you intimidating, but it’s actually everyone, not just Chase cus‑ start, and it’s the great time to build habits that set you up for are in your financial journey, a powerful tool that can help tomers, and are designed to success. Here are a few ways I think everyone should do a you unlock new opportuni‑ be practical and welcoming. year-end financial check-up. ties, whether that’s buying a Whether you’re looking for to get started: • Think of your budget as Review your budget and sav‑ home, starting a business, or guidance, want to ask ques‑ your personal roadmap, it ings, set realistic goals, and simply getting better rates tions, or just want to connect shows you exactly where make a plan you can stick to on everyday purchases. In my with others who are working

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future. Stop by your local Chase branch for a free finan‑ cial check-up, sign up for one of my free workshops, and let our team help you start 2026 with confidence. For informational/educational Q: If you could give one piece purposes only: Views and strategies of financial advice to the described in this article or provided community for 2026, what via links may not be appropriate for everyone and are not intended would it be? A: My top advice is to be as specific advice/recommendaproactive: take the time to tion for any business. Information review your finances, set clear has been obtained from sources and achievable goals, and believed to be reliable, but JPMcreate a plan to reach them. organ Chase & Co. or its affiliates toward similar goals, we’re here for you. I encourage you to join us, bring a friend, and take advantage of the re‑ sources and support available right in your community.

and/or subsidiaries do not warrant its completeness or accuracy. The material is not intended to provide legal, tax, or financial advice or to indicate the availability or suitability of any JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. product or service. You should carefully consider your needs and objectives before making any decisions and consult the appropriate professional(s). Outlooks and past performance are not guarantees of future results. JPMorgan Chase & Co. and its affiliates are not responsible for, and do not provide or endorse third party products, services, or other content. Deposit products providThe bottom line The end of the year is the ed JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. perfect time to reset your fi‑ Member FDIC. Equal Opportunancial goals and take posi‑ nity Lender. © 2025 JPMorgan Chase & Co. tive steps toward a stronger Don’t wait for a crisis or a big life event to get started, small steps today can lead to big results tomorrow. And remember, you don’t have to do it alone. Our team is here to help, whether you need a quick check-up, want to talk through your options, or need help building a plan. You don’t need to be a Chase customer to benefit from our expertise and support. We’re committed to helping our neighbors build a stronger, more resilient finan‑ cial future, one step at a time.

December 25 - 31, 2025

spokesman-recorder.com

RON

Continued from page 1

according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data and local city statistics. Meanwhile, about 31% of the Minneapolis de‑ partment’s sworn personnel are people of color overall, reflecting decades of gradual change since the all‑white force of the early 20th century. “We all grew up together around Ron Edwards, and he taught all of us about spirit, be‑ lieving in yourself, and being true to who you are,” said Walter “Q Bear” Banks, who had known Edwards since childhood. Edwards’ advocacy helped shape programs that expand‑ ed opportunities for Black and Indigenous firefighters and, later, for police officers. “He opened doors for Black and Indigenous fire and police of‑ ficers,” said Lisa Clemons, a Minneapolis police officer who joined the department

up when I’m pulled over,” he said. “But it’s more than that… It’s validation of the work I’ve been doing to help others and change systems.” Sole plans to use his ex‑ perience to advocate for more pardons, particularly for women who are often overlooked in the process. He also intends to share his story through writing, social media, and public commentary. “I want to give people healthy content to chew on. There’s a lot of manufactured stuff out there,” he said.

“I’m more than what circumstances tried to make of me.”

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the outcomes you want, even if you don’t get it the first time,” he said. “Never give up, even when they count you out.” From gang member to col‑ lege grad, activist and entre‑ preneur, Jason Sole’s story is one of transformation, perse‑ verance and impact. With the pardon officially granted, he now looks forward to a new chapter defined by communi‑ ty engagement, advocacy and storytelling. “I can help more people get pardoned, just because I’ve been through the pro‑ cess,” Sole said. “I want to help women applicants get the look they need. This is about creat‑ ing change that matters, and as you can see, for me, it don’t stop.” he paused. “I’m more than what circumstances tried to make of me, or what they [law enforcement] told me.” For more information visit www.jasonsole.com.

Throughout his journey, Sole emphasized resilience and Jasmine McBride welcomes patience. “You be patient, you reader responses at jmcbride@ stay the course, and you’ll get spokesman-rcorder.com.

m below and mail with payment to: sman-Recorder neapolis, MN 55409 SIMPLY FILL OUT THE SUBSCRIPTION FORM BELOW AND MAIL WITH PAYMENT TO:

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tions. “We need more young people to follow in his foot‑ steps,” she said. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey praised Edwards’ life‑ long dedication. “If you hear about the work Ron Edwards did, you know he cared about diversity, equity and inclusion before it was even an acro‑ nym,” Frey said. “He under‑ stood that public safety must reflect the people it protects, and that reflection is now vis‑

tact,” Sole explained. “When I got arrested with the students’ rights. In 2017, he launched Hu‑ “I met my partner in 2005, gun in 1997, they were just Continued from page 1 saying I was a Black dude and that grounded me,” he manize My Hoodie, a move‑ challenging biases from Chicago,” he recalled. “I said. “Even with setbacks, I ment around attire and identity, didn’t understand it all be‑ kept moving forward.” Sole’s work in restorative particularly for young Black minor leadership role within cause I wasn’t going to snitch. justice began in 2008, when men. By wearing a hoodie the gang, navigating a world I had to defend myself.” while teaching, Sole sought dominated by violence and to humanize individuals often systemic inequities. judged by appearance. “I came through the era of “People saw me as a hus‑ the war on drugs, where it was band, father. They saw the all about prison and throwing books I was using, and it reso‑ people in cages,” Sole said. “I nated,” he said. The initiative dealt with fatherlessness and gained widespread recogni‑ all the elements.” tion, earning endorsements After moving to Iowa for from celebrities and athletes. his junior and senior years of Building on that work, in high school, Sole experienced homelessness and instability. Jason Sole’s early life was marked by survival in harsh environ- 2020 Sole co-founded REP Despite the challenges, he ments and brushes with the law. Courtesy (Relationships Evolving Possi‑ bilities), a 10-year abolitionist graduated on time but con‑ His early adult years were he started implementing In‑ project that provides commu‑ tinued to face legal troubles, including multiple cannabis punctuated by violence and digenous models of conflict nity support and alternatives charges. By 18, after return‑ legal challenges, including a resolution nationwide. These to traditional policing. In 2021, ing briefly to Chicago, he re‑ 40-month prison sentence programs prioritize commu‑ the Bush Foundation awarded located to Minnesota, where and repeated minor charges. nity-based solutions, giving REP nearly $1 million, allow‑ within months he was ar‑ Yet Sole began a deliberate both victims and offenders a ing the organization to expand rested for carrying a firearm, a path toward transformation. voice, rather than relying sole‑ its services without relying on fundraising events. charge that would follow him He enrolled in college in 2004, ly on punitive measures. The pardon, Sole said, is “Before Christopher Colum‑ became president of the Black for decades. Sole’s arrest was influ‑ Student Union, and engaged bus, it wasn’t about punish‑ both personal and symbolic. enced by a combination of cir‑ in activism on campus, advo‑ ment. Even youth had a voice, “It feels good to know when I cumstance and systemic bias. cating for faculty diversity and and the community stayed in‑ get in my car, nothing comes

Visa

for civic engagement. Former Police Chief Medaria Arra‑ dondo and officers like Do‑ lores Dunn, who joined the department in 1973, trace their careers back to Edwards’ mentorship. “It’s only fitting that Ron Ed‑ wards, who worked tirelessly as a columnist, radio co‑host and community advocate, now has a permanent marker of his legacy,” said Tracey Wil‑ liams‑Dillard, publisher of the Minnesota Spokesman‑Re‑ corder. “He was a man of in‑ dispensable knowledge who “We all grew up together around shaped Minnesota’s public Ron Edwards, and he taught all of safety and civil rights land‑ us about spirit, believing in yourself, Ron Edwards, the civil rights activist and former Minnesota scape for decades.” The golden plaque at Fire Spokesman-Recorder columnist Courtesy of “The Ron & Don Show and being true to who you are.” Station 1 now serves as a last‑ on civil rights issues, criticiz‑ “He knew how to communi‑ ing tribute to Edwards’ lifelong ing media bias, and covering cate across different levels of commitment to justice, equity and inclusion, and as a remind‑ The ceremony included ible in this fire department.” incidents of systemic injustice, education and experience.” Beyond his work in public including alleged illegal wire‑ Edwards’ influence ex‑ er of the change one person tributes from members of the community, public safety of‑ safety, Edwards was a jour‑ tapping by the Minneapolis tended across generations of can inspire in a community. public servants. Police officers, ficials, and local leaders. Crow nalist, writing columns for the Police Department. Clint Combs welcomes readSpokesman‑Re‑ Bellecourt, who attended the Minnesota “I learned so much from Ron firefighters and journalists event, said Edwards’ legacy corder from 2003 to 2019. Edwards about journalism and alike credit him for opening er responses at combs0284@ should inspire future genera‑ His work included reporting respecting people,” Banks said. doors and setting a standard gmail.com.

in 1987. “He made it possible for all of us to have careers in public service.” Charles Rucker, presi‑ dent of the Minneapolis Af‑ rican‑American Firefighters Association, credited Edwards with creating the EMS path‑ way program, which became a primary source of diversity in the department. “The next firefighter class was 97% white, male. Ron Edwards helped change that,” Rucker said.

JASON

ress

Unique, local content from the African American Community’s perspective!

6 December 25 - 31, 2025

Arts & Culture

spokesman-recorder.com

New jazz club brings community-centered good times to Uptown By Jasmine McBride Editor A new jazz venue in the Twin Cities is aiming to be more than just a place to hear live music. For co-founder Johnnie Brown, The Brownstone Jazz Club is about access, community, and creating space for artists, especially Black artists, to grow. Brown, a longtime Twin Cit‑ ies musician, officially began his professional music journey in March 2012, debuting with a Teddy Pendergrass tribute per‑ formance. More than a decade later, he remains an independent artist, blending gospel, R&B, neosoul and jazz, a sound shaped by his upbringing in the Church of God in Christ, where his father served as a pastor. “Gospel was my foundation,” Brown said. “Jazz is something I’m still working my way into, but I love it.” That openness to learning and growth is central to the vision be‑ hind The Brownstone Jazz Club, which recently soft-launched in Uptown. Brown said the idea emerged from witnessing the limited opportunities available for local artists to perform, prac‑ tice and improve. “There are not a lot of places to play,” he said. “And some of

business is new territory. “This is a whole different beat,” he said. “I’m learning. I’m meet‑ ing with people who understand business and the community, be‑ cause I know I can’t do this alone.” Brown emphasized repeat‑ edly that The Brownstone is not meant to be a personal venture, but a shared one. “This is not a the venues people dream about, everybody because I love music. Johnnie Brown club,” he said. “It’s places like the Dakota, Chanhas‑ I love watching other entertain‑ a community club.” sen, or the Ordway, not every‑ ers do their craft.” Co-owned with Anita Moore, That mindset helped shape one is honored with access. But the venue is gradually building artists still need space to share The Brownstone as a space that The Brownstone Jazz Club is located at 1420 W. 28th Street in a team and infrastructure, in‑ prioritizes inclusion, opportunity Minneapolis. and develop their craft.” All photos courtesy cluding sound and social media Brown says the nature of music and respect for artists at all stag‑ support. Brown said commu‑ as a business, where hierarchy and es of their careers. While jazz is Brown said he is especially structure at The Brownstone. nity backing, from attendance to lack of mutual support can limit the club’s anchor, Brown empha‑ intentional about creating a “I’m trying to create something funding to ideas, will be critical to growth, is where the new jazz club sized that the programming will mature, elevated atmosphere, a different,” he said, “a system that its success. be diverse. comes in as a vital resource. space where older audiences can makes more sense for artists.” Upcoming plans include a “Jazz is the title, but other relax, listen, and enjoy the music “We hinder ourselves with The club’s soft grand open‑ New Year’s Eve event with a DJ, some of the attitudes about things will take place,” he said. “I without distraction. ing drew about 80 to 90 people future live shows, and tribute “Listening to music takes ma‑ per show, Brown said, and con‑ performances honoring artists turity,” he said. “Jazz audiences firmed for him that the vision is such as George Duke and Lou “I support everybody are connoisseurs. They know resonating. Rawls. Brown said he is inten‑ because I love music. how to sit in a space and really “It was just a good time,” he tionally curating programming said. “The energy in the space is that appeals to nearby residents I love watching enjoy the set.” good even just sitting there.” The goal, he said, is to build while drawing people from other entertainers Beyond music, The Brown‑ across the metro. a venue the community can be do their craft.” proud of, not a “hole in the wall” stone is already being used as Above all, he wants the mes‑ but a destination. “I want people to a community gathering space. sage to be clear: “Everybody is hear about The Brownstone when Brown said the venue has hosted welcome,” Brown said. “We’re they come to the city,” Brown said. benefits, including a holiday toy open to new ideas, new solu‑ “Uptown is on its way back, and I drive, as well as a men’s group tions, and bringing people to‑ that met weekly. hope to be a part of that.” gether. That’s the goal.” “You could see the comfort on Brown does not plan to cen‑ ter himself as the primary per‑ their faces,” he said. “They felt Catch a Christmas-themed former at the club. While he will safe being there, talking and con‑ show presented by Sovereign Colperform occasionally, his focus necting.” lective on Tuesday, December Looking ahead to 2025, 23, 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at The is on opening the stage to oth‑ ers and rethinking how artists Brown said his focus is shifting Brownstone. For more information, are compensated. Drawing from from performing to building The visit www.tickettailor.com/events/ years of experience performing Brownstone into a sustainable wholemvmnt/1977714. Club co-founder Johnnie Brown in sold-out shows where artists community institution. While often receive a small share after he is experienced in organizing Jasmine McBride welcomes who’s who in the Twin Cities mu‑ want people to feel comfortable expenses, Brown said he hopes shows and managing artists, he reader responses at jmcbride@ sic business,” he said. “I support no matter who they are.” to develop a more equitable pay acknowledged that running a spokesman-recorder.com.

“The Lost Bus” (***1/2) It started with a spark. No one knew how it would end. That’s how the deadliest fire in Califor‑ nia history unfolded on Nov. 18, 2018, in Butte County. School bus driver Kevin McCay (Mat‑ thew McConaughey) springs into action to save lives. Director Paul Greengrass (United 93) me‑ ticulously stages the story, co‑ ordinates stunning effects, and ignites sustained chaos that lasts more than two hours. The dread lingers long after the credits roll.

Morrible (Michelle Yeoh) scheme against them. Jon M. Chu’s di‑ rection is lush and imaginative, building to a twist-filled finale. Erivo and Grande shine, anchor‑ ing the spectacle with heart and a powerful lesson about friend‑ ship. These films, along with docu‑ mentaries, animation and first features, represent the best of cinema in 2025. Let this list guide you.

Honorable mentions: 28 Years Later, Black Bag, The ChoBy Dwight Brown ral, Dead Man’s Wire, F1, Father “Marty Supreme” (***1/2) Film critic Mother Sister Brother, The HisReckless, ambitious and re‑ tory of Sound, Is This Thing On?, These 10 films rose to the top lentless, Marty Mauser (Timo‑ Nuremberg, One of Them Days, in 2025. Each is Oscar-worthy thée Chalamet) refuses to give The Smashing Machine, Sorry, in at least one category. Watch up. Born poor in a low-income Baby, Superman, Warfare, Weapthem in theaters or stream them Jewish American community on ons. (Best directors, performances New York’s Lower East Side, he and judge for yourself. turns pingpong into a possible Susan Chardy stars as a young “Sinners” (***) and performances are strong, and technical awards lists remain escape during the 1950s and woman who must find her voice Ryan Coogler enters the hor‑ but buried within this ambitious unchanged.) “Hamnet” (****) A woman in a forest has ’60s. Writer-director Josh Safdie and confront buried abuse. The ror genre with an elite creative 137-minute film is an even better Happy holidays. much to learn about life and (Uncut Gems) finds the perfect imagery, including a mirrored team, including cinematogra‑ 120-minute version. forgiveness. Watching her meta‑ subject and lead actor. Chalam‑ mask and striking costume, is pher Autumn Durald Arkapaw Dwight Brown is a film critic morphosis is transfixing. The film et’s past roles feel like stepping‑ unforgettable. Guilt shifts from and designer Hannah Beachler. ”Wicked: For Good” (***1/2) and contributor to the National Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) and evolves into a wondrous, increas‑ stones to this moment. Kinetic, victim to perpetrator in a quietly Michael B. Jordan plays twin brothers who return to rural Glinda (Ariana Grande) grapple Newspaper Publishers Association. ingly enchanting narrative that chaotic and barreling toward di‑ revelatory conclusion. saster, the film is an exhilarating Mississippi to open a juke joint — with destiny as the Wizard of For more information, visit www. segues into one of the most fa‑ ride. Koto Kawaguchi, Gwyneth and face vampires. The imagery Oz (Jeff Goldblum) and Madame DwightBrownInk.com. “The Secret Agent” (****) mous plays ever written. Written Paltrow and Odessa A’zion co“I am under a death threat. ” and directed by Oscar winner During Brazil’s 1977 military dic‑ Chloé Zhao and expertly acted star. tatorship, university researcher by Jessie Buckley and Paul Mes‑ “My Father’s Shadow” (****) Marcelo (Wagner Moura) is hunt‑ cal, this drama has Shakespear‑ “May the four colors of the ed, along with countless others ean proportions. The catharsis earth bless me. I will see you fleeing political violence. Writerleaves audiences emotionally in my dreams. ” Writer-director director Kleber Mendonça Filho spent and contemplative. Akinola Davies blends poetic dia‑ blends genres in this intelligent, “A House of Dynamite” (****) logue with sensitive storytelling unsettling political thriller. The “Object remains inbound.” Those in this father-son allegory. Two script drifts across time, expos‑ are the last words anyone wants Nigerian brothers, extroverted ing both victims and perpetra‑ to hear when a nuclear missile is Remi (Chibuike Marvelous Egbo) tors. A masterful, cautionary film. headed your way. That ominous and introverted Akin (Godwin alert sets off this pulse-quicken‑ Chiemerie Egbo), reunite with “Sentimental Value” (****) Absentee fathers and their ing thriller. Oscar-winning direc‑ their estranged father, Folarin (Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù), in Lagos. The meet‑ emotional wreckage fuel this tor Kathryn Bigelow (“The Hurt ing alters their lives. Reminiscent Norwegian family drama. Set Locker”) presents three perspec‑ of “Moonlight, ” the film is a mov‑ largely inside a looming red tives on the same harrowing ing meditation on fatherhood, house in Oslo, the film follows incident. A sterling ensemble political unrest, and life’s fragility. a wayward father (Stellan Skars‑ cast — Anthony Ramos, Rebecca gård) attempting reconciliation Ferguson, Jason Clarke and Idris “On Becoming a Guinea Fowl” with his estranged daughters Elba — locks in step. Bigelow’s (***1/2) (Renate Reinsve and Inga Ibsdot‑ direction, Noah Oppenheim’s A dead uncle lies in the road. ter Lilleaas). Directed by Joachim script, and the actors’ intensity take you straight into the cri‑ Do you brake or accelerate? Trier from a script co-written sis. By the end, you may need British writer-director Rungano with Eskil Vogt, the film feels like a stiff drink, a calming walk or Nyoni delivers a modern femi‑ group therapy, and the audience both. That’s the mark of a rivet‑ nist fable rooted in Zambia and is part of the session. shaped by #MeToo themes. ing thriller.

Education

spokesman-recorder.com

December 25 - 31, 2025

Alternative schools offer learners a second chance — and more tended Learning Consultant at the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE). “If they’re Each year, thousands of experiencing difficulty in tra‑ Minnesota students face ditional schools, the goal is challenges that make it diffi‑ to help them stay connected cult to stay on pace in tradi‑ to their learning, to meet the tional classrooms. For some, whole child’s needs. It’s not academic credit gaps are the just academics.” hurdle; for others, life circum‑ stances, learning style mis‑ matches, or personal respon‑ sibilities make the traditional model feel out of reach. But for students who struggle in conventional set‑ tings, leaving school doesn’t have to be the end of their Origins Alternative learning in Min‑ educational journey. Across Minnesota, alternative educa‑ nesota dates back to the late tion programs provide flexible 1980s, when the first state‑ap‑ pathways that help students proved programs began with stay engaged and work to‑ just a few sites serving a few thousand students. Today, ward graduation. Minnesota’s State‑Ap‑ nearly 160,000 students ac‑ proved Alternative Programs cess alternative education on (SAAPs) include Area Learn‑ a part‑time or full‑time basis, ing Centers (ALCs), Alterna‑ making up a significant por‑ tive Learning Programs (ALPs), tion of the state’s overall pub‑ Contract Alternative Programs lic school population. Alternative programs are (CAPs), and Targeted Services for younger learners. These year‑round, often offering programs are designed to day classes, extended‑time meet students “where they’re options, and flexible sched‑ at,” offering year‑round in‑ uling that let students make struction, smaller class sizes, up credits without repeat‑ and personalized approaches ing entire courses. Central to that reflect each student’s each student’s progress is the Continual Learning Plan (CLP): goals and needs. “These programs are de‑ a personalized roadmap that signed to meet students really outlines academic goals and where they’re at,” said Christy the support needed to reach Irrgang, Alternative and Ex‑ them.

By Lizzy Nyoike Contributing Writer

general education revenue system, with additional sup‑ port tied to extended‑time learning. This state funding structure has supported alter‑ native education for decades, ensuring that students behind academically have a way to continue progressing. The need for alternative pathways remains high. Many districts still work to help stu‑ dents recover academically in the wake of disruptions caused by the Covid‑19 pan‑ demic. District leaders across the state report ongoing de‑ practitioner experience both mand for credit recovery and show that meaningful con‑ flexible learning structures nections with adults in school that help students finish their play a major role in keeping diplomas. students engaged. The ultimate goal of alter‑ Who they serve Experts say that alternative native education mirrors that of traditional schools: gradua‑ programs often serve higher tion. But the route often looks proportions of students from underserved different. Minnesota’s alterna‑ historically tive programs allow students groups, including those identi‑ to progress at a pace that fied as English learners or eli‑ works for them, taking mul‑ gible for free or reduced‑price tiple years if needed to com‑ meals. According to the most re‑ plete requirements. Extended‑time program‑ cent MDE report on alterna‑ ming such as after‑school, tive programs, these schools weekend and summer options, serve more than 124,000 lets students recover credits students statewide, with the and continue progressing to‑ largest groups enrolled in core ward graduation rather than day programs such as Area Learning Centers. Extend‑ repeating lost time. ed‑time programs, including after‑school and summer of‑ Funding Funding for these programs ferings, represent a substan‑ comes through Minnesota’s tial share of participation. “These programs make an effort to tailor instruction to a student’s academic level, personal interests, needs, and college and career goals, de‑ signing coursework around that,” Irrgang said. Building strong relationships with stu‑ dents is also key; research and

“For Minnesota students, these programs are personalized opportunities for connection, growth, and future success.”

LET THEM RISE: A Blueprint for Educating Black Boys

Collaboration Looking ahead, educa‑ tors and policymakers say that community partnerships are vital. State statutes and guidance emphasize that al‑ ternative programs should collaborate with local coun‑ ties, community‑based orga‑ nizations and post‑secondary institutions to broaden sup‑ port and opportunities for students. Organizations like the Min‑ nesota Association of Alter‑ native Programs (MAAP) also advocate for students and

Going back to ‘the village’

Why the village matters

who tell the stories; aunties and uncles who correct with tough love; mentors who step in when guidance is needed; pastors who provide spiritual grounding; doctors who pro‑ tect our health; radio stations and newspapers that uplift through positive storytell‑ ing; police officers who build trust and offer protection; and teachers who see a child’s potential before he sees it in himself. That is the true definition of the village. Each person played a role. By Richard D. Terrell The village did not simply raise Columnist children; it raised confident, Before diving into this col‑ healthy, educated and disci‑ umn, I want to be clear: This plined future leaders. Today, that village is is not a critique of any one school, district or institution. stretched thin. Schools are Rather, it is a broader reflec‑ overwhelmed and under-re‑ tion rooted in research, obser‑ sourced. Families are working vation, and personal experi‑ multiple jobs and longer hours. ence on the current state of Community organizations are sistent people who care for education for Black boys in underfunded and operating at them holistically: emotionally, capacity. Recreation centers mentally, spiritually, academi‑ America. When we say, “It takes a have limited hours or limited cally and physically. village to raise a child,” we are reach. There are several reasons In the midst of all of this, the village remains essential: not repeating a cliché or lean‑ ing on a convenient phrase. Black boys are often left to 1. Identity is formed through This saying has lived in the navigate complex systems and community. Black community for decades an unforgiving world with few‑ When boys consistently because it speaks a truth that er hands protecting, guiding, hear affirming words such as has sustained us for genera‑ challenging and uplifting them. “You are smart,” “You are pow‑ We must rebuild. tions. It reminds us that edu‑ erful,” and “You are strong,” It is time to intentionally they walk differently, speak cation and child-rearing have never been the responsibility rebuild the village, not just for differently, and carry them‑ of one person or one system Black boys, but for the health selves with confidence. and future of our communi‑ alone. 2. Safety is created through This African proverb un‑ ties. relationships. derscores the power of the When Black boys have mul‑ village as our strength, guid‑ Why the village still matters tiple trusted adults invested in Black boys succeed when their lives, they are less likely ance, heritage and way of be‑ ing. The village includes elders they are surrounded by con‑ to fall through the cracks.

These schools serve more than 124,000 students statewide.

1. Families: Create consis‑ tent routines for sleep, home‑ work and meals. Speak life into your sons daily. Simple affirmations like “I’m proud of you” and “You’ve got this” matter. 2. Schools: Welcome fami‑ lies as partners. Include Black boys in conversations about their learning. Teach with high expectations and cultural un‑ derstanding. 3. Faith leaders: Create and sustain safe spaces for reflec‑ tion. Teach faith alongside responsibility, purpose and service. 4. Mentors: Offer guidance on identity, leadership and purpose. Be consistent. Listen more than you speak. 5. Elders: Share your wis‑ dom and history. Tell the sto‑ ries that remind boys where they come from and where 3. Accountability comes they are going. Remind them that they come from strength. from connection. 6. Community organizaBlack boys rise to the level of expectation when they tions and recreation centers: know someone is watching, Provide spaces for connection supporting, and holding them — whether through open gym time, snacks, volunteering op‑ accountable. 4. Healing happens in portunities or creative outlets. 7. Peers: Peer-to-peer re‑ trusted spaces. Many Black boys carry trau‑ lationships matter. Lead by ma. In environments where example.

they are seen and heard, the village helps rebuild what has been broken.

Rebuilding the village does not require perfection. It re‑ quires commitment, dedica‑ Ways to strengthen the village tion and patience. Imagine if every Black boy The truth is that Black boys do not just need more pro‑ had a team of trusted adults grams. They need the three committed to his success. P’s: people, partnerships and Imagine schools partnering with community organiza‑ presence.

@MNSpokesmanRecorder

educators in alternative set‑ tings. Its student‑led branch, MAAP Stars, gives learners a platform to share their expe‑ riences and help shape policy and practice across the state. For Minnesota students earning diplomas through alternative pathways, these programs represent more than just a second chance. They are personalized opportunities for connection, growth, and fu‑ ture success. Lizzy Nyoike is a Hubbard School of Journalism & Mass Communication student. tions and faith leaders to provide wraparound sup‑ port. Imagine every Black boy knowing he could turn to someone in his community for guidance. That is the vision of a be‑ loved community, one where Black boys rise because they are lifted by the village around them. When I think about the vil‑ lage, I think about the people who poured into me: my pas‑ tors, coaches, family members, teachers and mentors. They believed in my future before I fully believed in myself. Their conversations shaped my di‑ rection. Their guidance and tough love strengthened my foundation. Every Black boy deserves a village like this. So I leave you with these questions: Who was part of your village? What would it look like if we poured into ev‑ ery Black boy in our commu‑ nity? How can schools, faith leaders, community organiza‑ tions and mentors work to‑ gether to support them? Let’s rise together. Richard D. Terrell is a native of Minneapolis. He is the father of three: Zyree, Raymond and Vivian. Richard has a passion for community, education, and youth development. For the last 20 years he has served at various schools working with and supporting students, families, and teachers. He currently serves as an assistant principal with Saint Paul Public Schools. He also serves as the senior pastor of God’s Revelation Missionary Baptist Church in South Minneapolis. For more information on Richard D. Terrell, visit his website at www.mrrichardterrell.com.

NOTICE OF INFORMAL APPOINTMENT

8 December 25 - 31, 2025OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND

In Re: Estate of

PHONE: 612-827-4021

Opinion

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

FOR BILLING INQUIRIES spokesman-recorder.com & TEARSHEETS PL E A S E CON TAC T ACCOU N T I NG DE P T STATE OF MINNESOTA FOURTH JUDICIAL TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS: DevSecOps Engineer: From Ads YOUR VOICE MATTERS — send your opinion (400-600 words) to submissions@spokesman-recorder.com! BILLING@SPOKESMAN-RECORDER.COM COUNTY OF HENNEPIN DISTRICT COURT Deanne Marie Hild, FILE NO. 27-PA-PR-25-934 also known M U L T as,I M E D I A Deanne Marie Bratton and Deanne Marie Elmquist, Deceased

Notice is given that an application for informal appointment of personal representative has been filed with the Registrar. No will has been presented for probate. The application has been granted.

Notice is hereby given that informal appointment of Michael Ryan Hild, whose address is 4034 40th Ave S., Minneapolis, MN 55406 as personal representative of the estate of the above-named decedent, has been made. Any heir, devisee or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as personal representative or may object to the appointment of the personal representative and the personal representative is empowered to fully administer the estate including, after 30 days from the date of issuance of letters, the power to sell, encumber, lease or distribute real estate, unless objections thereto are filed with the Court (pursuant to Section 524.3-607) and the Court otherwise orders.

Plymouth, MN

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PHONE: 612-827-4021 IT Company seeks DevSecOps Engineer to integrate security pracNOTICE OF INFORMAL APPOINTMENT PROBATE In Re: Estate of tices into DevOps workflows, automate security checks, and ensure OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND 2 WEEK RU N NOTICE TO CREDITORS the safety of cloud infrastructure. Work closely with development and R ATE $215.00posture PREPA ID security teamsFLAT to enhance the security of applications and sysFOR BILLING tems. Build and Configure delivery environments by using CD/CI, AgDeanne Marie Hild, FILE NO. 27-PA-PR-25-934 INQUIRIES ile delivery methodologies. assist in performing various ads isalso known as, Please Note:Create New and email address for all future &Bratton TEARSHEETS types of tests.ads@spokesman-recorder.com Perform troubleshooting. Generate customized reports. Deanne Marie and Deanne Marie Elmquist, Deceased PLEASE CONTACT Offered Salary: $116,480.00 to $116,500.00/yr. Send resumes to: HRD, VITS Consulting Corp., 14264 23rd Ave N, Plymouth, MN 55447.

The broken health care system we love to hate

ACCOUPERSONS N T I NG The MSR handles billing digitally. TO ALL INTERESTED ANDDEPT CREDITORS: complicated billing process. cantly less for care. According By Josh Moon This means you will get e-tears and e-mailed invoices @ BILLI NG@SPOKESMinnesota Spokesman-Recorder July 10, 2025 Notice is given that an application for informal of personal the Kaiser FamilyrepresenFounda‑ We hate the cost of it all. We to appointment unless you specifically request a hard copy. tative has beenM filed with the Registrar.DER No will.COM has been presented for probate. The A N-R ECOR What is it going to take for hate the treatment we often tion, Americans pay just under application has been granted. Notice is further given that ALL CREDITORS having claims against said estate are Americans to get behind a sin‑ receive when we are forced to $14,000 per year for care. The required to present the same to said personal representative or to the Probate Court to the doctor, or,informal God help gle-payer health care system? goNotice average among 23 whose otherad-peer is hereby given that appointment of Michael Ryan Hild, Administrator within four months after the date of this notice or said claims will be DISPLAY dress 4034EMPLOYMENT 40th Ave S., Minneapolis, MN 55406 asispersonal representative of an‑ theis hospital. How many of your friends and us, nations less than $7,400 barred. SIZE 2 COL Xit2and INCH theWe estate of the has nually. been made. Any heir, devisee or other hate itabove-named and hatedecedent, neighbors need to go broke? interested person may be entitled PCI to appointment as personal representative or may RATE: $44.60 it …. until someone tries How many babies need to die hate Americans pay more for lit‑ object to the appointment of the personal representative and the personal represenTOTAL: $178.40 totative change it. And then, for needlessly? erally everything: Dated: June 24, 2025 Lindy Scanlon is empowered to fully administer the estate including, after 30 daysoutpatient from the Registrar unknown reason, How many mothers need some care, inpatient care,realsurgeries, date of issuance of letters, the powerhalf to sell, encumber, lease or distribute estate, theretofights are filed with the Court (pursuantvisits, to Sectiondental 524.3-607) and vi‑ theobjections country tooth to suffer and die? How many ofunless routine care, ProSe Sara Gonsalves the Court orders. nailotherwise to save it while pre‑ sion care and, of course, pre‑ people have to lose every‑ and District Court Administrator Please proof, respond with email confirmation to ad thing over fairly common ail‑ tending that anyone trying scription drugs. Notice is further given that ALL CREDITORS having claims against said estate are spokesman-recorder.com Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder July 10, 17, 2025 change it is a socialist who ments? How many hospitals torequired But surely get better to present the same to said personal representative or towe the Probate Court re‑ wants to killwithin elderly people. need to close? sults, Administrator four months after the date of thisright? notice or said claims will be The MSR handles billingNope. digitally. barred. This is getting absurd. This means you will get e-tears and e-mailed invoice Never in all my life have I en‑ People in those other 23 unless you specifically request a hard copy. countered a situation even countries live longer, have Dated: June 24, 2025 Lindy Scanlon remotely similar to the Ameri‑ fewerRegistrar ailments, experience can health care system and roughly similar wait times for ProSe Saratreatments Gonsalves our relationship with it. routine and minor District Court We hate it. surgeries, and Administrator typically less All of us hate it with a red waitJuly time emergency care Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder 10, for 17, 2025 It’s the nuttiest thing I’ve and emergency surgeries. hot passion. And why wouldn’t we hate ever encountered. And, oh, by the way, not a Another outlet reached for a ternal staff complaints or lean‑ By Dr. Stacey Patton In fact, it’s how we ended single person in most of those familiar shorthand, calling her ing on gendered accusations. it? We pay unbelievably more Taken together, the pattern for our care than literally ev‑ up with Obamacare — a sys‑ 23 countries experienced a Texas Rep. Jasmine Crock‑ a “firebrand” in its announce‑ ett announced her U.S. Sen‑ ment that Texas Rep. Jasmine is unmistakable. “Combative” eryone else who doesn’t re‑ tem that even the program’s personal bankruptcy due di‑ didn’t want. rectly to the cost of medical ate bid this week, and within Crockett launched a run for isn’t a stray adjective. It be‑ side in this country, and all of namesake longs to a familiar cluster: fire‑ those people receive better President Obama wanted treatment. The U.S. averages hours the political press did Senate. A longer national profile brand, fiery, confrontational, care and better outcomes and a single-payer system. He more than 500,000 every sin‑ what it has long perfected when Black women reach for published last summer went and abrasive. Whether those have healthier populations. Of wanted something on par gle year. with the system that serves power. HuffPost and other further, framing Crockett as a traits are framed as leadership course we hate it. We hate the insurance Canada and several other Josh Moon is a columnist for outlets described her not by Democrat testing “the coarse or liability depends less on her platform, record or strat‑ style of politics that the GOP Crockett’s behavior than on companies. We hate the hos‑ developed nations around Bouldin Commentary. This commentary has been edited for egy, but by her temperament, has embraced,” subtly recast‑ the outlet doing the framing pitals. We hate the nickel-and- the globe. Those nations pay signifi‑ length. branding the first-term con‑ ing her rhetorical posture as and the audience it imagines. dime pettiness of the overly White male politicians an imitation of Republican ex‑ gresswoman as “combative.” “Combative” is one of those cess rather than a response to who yell, threaten, insult col‑ respectable-sounding smear a brutal political environment, leagues, shut down govern‑ ments, or storm hearings words clean enough for news‑ as reported by the Atlantic. Local coverage leaned into aren’t routinely described as room style guides and loaded enough to do racial and gen‑ the same groove, crediting “combative.” They’re “outspo‑ dered damage without any‑ her growing visibility to “fiery ken.” They’re “fighters.” They one having to say a Black clashes” and “viral spats” that “don’t back down.” They’re woman is angry, aggressive, or have helped turn her into a “tough.” The same behavior, filtered household name, language out of control. When HuffPost calls Jas‑ echoed in coverage by KFOX through a Black woman’s mine Crockett “the combative and reinforced in additional body, suddenly becomes a temperament issue instead of first-term congresswoman,” national commentary. that adjective is ideological fought for it. For African Columbia University and Har‑ By Stacy M. Brown signaling. It primes the reader Americans who had faced a vard Law School. before they even get to her Trump nurtured those The battles over the Af‑ lifetime of inequitable access, politics. You’re supposed to fordable Care Act were never predatory pricing, and the claims for years, and he used hear problematic, difficult, too only about policy or the price cruel arithmetic of race and ill‑ them as a launchpad for his much, not feminine, grateful, of insurance. They were nev‑ ness, the ACA was a rare affir‑ political identity. He became or deferential. er simply arguments about mation. Obama spoke about the chief promoter of birther‑ The language snapped into The framing isn’t entirely a political stance. White wom‑ federal subsidies, individual it using language palatable to ism. As The Independent re‑ place almost immediately. One headline announcing uniform, but that variation en occupy a middle tier in this mandates, or the markets a country still clinging to the ported, Trump spent years Jasmine Crockett’s Senate is revealing. More neutral hierarchy, and their treatment that hold the system together. mythology of a post-racial asserting that Obama was se‑ bid led not with her platform outlets avoid “combative” al‑ is contingent on alignment From the moment America nation, but the communities cretly born in Kenya and that or electoral math, but with a together, opting instead for with white comfort and patri‑ elected a Black president and that long suffered under the he only ended the crusade that president dared to place weight of indifferent systems when confronted with the personality tag, describing her descriptors like “outspoken,” archal norms. the health of the poor and the knew exactly what the law long-form birth certificate. as “the combative first-term “bold,” or “direct.” Other outlets, But even then, he would This commentary, first pub- marginalized at the center of meant. congresswoman, a leading often more hostile, sharpen critic of Trump” in a write-up the coverage into “diva” char‑ lished in NewsOne’s Opinion Ar- national law, a deeper truth syndicated by Yahoo News. acter critique, referencing in‑ chives, has been edited for length. rose to the surface. That truth has followed the country for centuries. It was waiting for its next target. The target became Barack Obama. The instrument became M U L T I M E D I A Obamacare. Long before Republicans vowed to “repeal and replace,” the lines were already drawn. The same forces that spent years questioning Obama’s citizenship, intellect and le‑ gitimacy turned their fury toward the most expansive submissions@spokesman-recorder.com not release his grip. At the The backlash knew it, too. health care protections in Republican attacks intensi‑ White House Correspondents generations. Black lawmakers and fied the moment the bill be‑ Dinner in 2011, Obama ad‑ health equity advocates un‑ came law, but the pursuit of dressed the conspiracy with derstood the stakes. They had its destruction began before biting precision, noting that spent years shaping the Af‑ a single vote was cast. It fol‑ Trump could “finally get back fordable Care Act so it would lowed the same path as the to the issues that matter.” Footage from the event cut into the country’s long claims that Obama was not captured Trump staring ahead born in the United States. trail of racial health disparities. submissions@spokesman-recorder.com It echoed the same insis‑ as the audience laughed. Daniel Dawes, a leading figure in that fight, stated that the tence that he was foreign, il‑ Those close to him have said ACA was “the most compre‑ legitimate, clever enough to that night marked the mo‑ hensive minority health law” reach the White House only ment he decided to run for ads@spokesman-recorder.com in United States history and through something other than president. identified 62 provisions that talent or discipline. It came Stacy M. Brown is the Black “directly address inequities in from the same places that in‑ submissions@spokesman-recorder.com. sisted affirmative action must Press USA senior national correhealth care.” @MNSpokesmanRecorder The law carried the fin‑ explain the achievements of spondent. This commentary has P.O. Box 8558 • Minneapolis, MN 55408 gerprints of the people who a man who graduated from been edited for length.

For Black women, ‘combative’ is media’s dog whistle

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This is why Khan annually holds his Get In The Game Continued from page 10 Conference for Black college students vying for future roles in sports media. It’s ex‑ tensive and intentional with do not work with any big guest speakers and facilita‑ networks, and I do that pur‑ tors from various sports in‑ posely because I never want dustry roles, he pointed out. “We created the event to our voice and perspective to educate HBCU students and be diluted or dictated to.” Khan started at ESPN, students of color about the then CSTV (now CBS Sports sports business industry and Network), Interactive One the career pathways within (now Urban One, a Black- it,” explained Khan, who also owned company), Big Lead teaches sports management Sports (now USA Today classes as an adjunct profes‑ Sports Media Group), and sor at three colleges and uni‑ The Shadow League, another versities. “One of the things I’ve al‑ Black-owned sports and cul‑ ture multimedia company, all ways realized is that students before he finally branched want to get in the industry, but they don’t know how. They out on his own. “When I started at ESPN don’t know all the careers, in 1999, I was the only Black,” they don’t know the skills, and recalled Khan. “So, for four even once they get in, they and a half years I was the don’t know how to navigate only Black male in the tele‑ throughout the industry and vision sales planning depart‑ really build your career. “There’s so many other ment, the only one out of things we do,” he continued. about 30 people. “That department teaches “You have to be multimedia — you how ESPN makes mon‑ can’t just be writing or I want ey … It really taught me that, to be in sales. No, it’s much when I can get into a posi‑ more than that.” He reaches out not just tion, to not just give back but to literally open doors and to Black HBCU students give [other Blacks] opportu‑ but also their PWI counter‑ parts, stressed Khan, “be‑ nities and options.”

VIEW

cause many times they are in schools that have sports management programs or sports communications, but they’re in the same boat, right? They’re fighting twice as hard to get in these posi‑ tions, and they don’t have the same access as a lot of the white students do. “So, we wanted to create an event that is more edu‑ cational than just informa‑ tional,” said Khan of his con‑ ference, which he had put on for the past several years. The veteran Black journal‑ ist agrees with us on the sad state of today’s sports media in which seemingly everyone has a podcast or uses social media ad nauseum, “not in‑ telligent or thoughtful, just put it out there,” surmised Khan. “And I got tired of that. “When I launched First and Pen, I wanted to give Black and brown writers a destina‑ tion and a hub where they could talk about things that are important, that aren’t just dictated by word count,” con‑ cluded Khan. “They’re dictat‑ ed by thought, by information and by inspiration as well.”

SOE

Continued from page 10

day to be a mortician. In remembrance Yevette Haskins, the wife of former Minnesota coach Clem Haskins, died last week. During her husband’s tenure, Mrs. Haskins was clearly the first lady of Gopher hoops and a mother to all the play‑ ers. The Haskins were high Clem and Yevette Haskins Photos by Charles Hallman school sweethearts and the pher jersey retirement cer‑ cult time. parents of four children. We last wrote about the emony at Williams Arena in Charles Hallman welcomes two in a March 7, 2020 January 2020. Our condolences to the reader comments to challman@ column after the couple at‑ tended Willie Burton’s Go‑ Haskins family at this diffi‑ spokesman-recorder.com.

players to watch. Ma’Lon McCoy: St. Agnes guard aver‑ Continued from page 10 aging 16.4 points per game. Madeleine Hamiel: Cretin Derham Hall guard averag‑ ing 14.7 points. JaShaya Kyles: St. Paul Washington/ the University of MinnesotaJohnson guard averaging Duluth. 15.2 points. Aniyrah GorOutstanding girls basketball man: Minneapolis North guard averaging 22 points. players Jaliyah Diggs: Hopkins The following are five

PREP

Charles Hallman welcomes reader comments to challman@ spokesman-recorder.com.

guard averaging 16.2 points. Hyser in Hall of Fame Joe Hyser, the head coach of the Minneapolis South boys bas‑ ketball team since 1996, recently became the newest inductee to the South Wall of Fame. Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald welcomes reader comments to mcdeezy05@gmail.com.

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from its work since we dis‑ covered Yussuf Khan, a sports and multicultural media vet‑ eran with over two decades of experience. His site is “fully committed to supporting and investing in underserved and overlooked communities, in‑ There are approximately 100 dividuals, and voices of color,” African American and other says its mission statement. student-athletes of color this school year at the University ood sports journalism of Minnesota. In an occasional these days is like a series throughout the 2025-26 1972 classic song title academic and sports year, the by Climax: “Precious and Few.” MSR will highlight many of these Dead and gone are such players. This week: Gopher WBB shows as The Sports Report‑ Sophomore Tori McKinney ers, Outside the Lines and Real Sports. Stephen A. Smith an Tori McKinney pick “It’s been challenging in sold his journalist soul for up where she left off big money to become a daily some ways because I funded last spring? MSR was noise box. Clicks and likes it out of my own pocket. But the only local media to watch have replaced long-form writ‑ I love it,” said Khan in a re‑ in person McKinney’s WBIT cent MSR phone interview. “I MVP performance in leading ing and reporting. Tori McKinney First and Pen is an indepen‑ 100% own and operate First Minnesota to a championship dent Black-owned sports site. and Pen. I’m independent. I game win over Belmont with a 2.5 assists per game. She also We regularly use excerpts ■ See VIEW on page 9 career-high 26 points, includ‑ concluded last season with the ing 19 first-half points. best freshman free-throw per‑ “It’s team and personal, but centage of any Gopher (.887). we would love to play in the “I would say it was a faster Big Dance this year, and that’s adjustment, but also an ad‑ a goal,” the 6’1” guard recently justment I would say I was told us when asked about her willing to make and imple‑ goals for 2025-26. ment,” recalled McKinney, The Minnetonka native “because I knew Minnesota is had a phenomenal first year who I wanted to play for. Min‑ as a college player. McKin‑ nesota is the place where I ney twice was named Fresh‑ want to spend my next four man of the Week (USBWA, years. Obviously I got thrown Big Ten), finished third on the in there kind of quick.” team in scoring, co-leader with McKinney currently leads Niamya Holloway with 12 the Gophers in scoring with blocks, and was one of three nearly 14 points a contest, conference freshmen to aver‑ and the team leader in steals. Yussuf Khan Submitted photo age 10.6 points, 1.3 steals and Off the court, she is now

“I never want our voice and perspective to be diluted or dictated to.”

Marquette asst WBB coach is focused on helping his boss succeed Coaching While Black This occasional series will highlight Black coaches at all levels of sport. This week: Marquette Assistant Woman’s Basketball Coach Deont’a McChester By Charles Hallman Sports Columnist Originally, Deont’a McChester thought that he would be a veterinarian as an adult. But as early as middle school, growing up in Flint, Mich. he was told that he someday, somewhere would be a basketball coach. “Honestly, in middle school, high school, all of my coaches told me that I had the ability to lead people,” remembers McChester. “They thought that I had the ability to impact people, and I should think about coaching.” Those coaches undoubtedly saw something that McChes‑ ter himself didn’t envision, but an injury suffered in college brought some clarity to his post-playing career plans. “My last year in college I tore my ACL, and my college coach said, ‘Hey, man, I think you’d be a great assistant coach. Try it out this year,” contin‑ ued McChester, who began his coaching career after he earned a bachelor’s degree from Keuka College in 2007. First as director of basket‑ ball operations at WinstonSalem State (2008-09), the current Marquette assistant WBB coach has held many positions ever since, includ‑ ing two head coaching stints: Flint Lady Monarchs of the WBCBL (2010-13) and Claflin

son’s Big East co-coach of the year. “When she gave me the opportunity to come up here to Marquette, it was really a step that I really couldn’t deny, being five hours away from home. “For her to be able to offer me an opportunity to come help her with her vision, be‑ cause ultimately, that’s what I’m here to do, be able to find and recruit and develop the best young ladies in the world and help her with her vision. “I’m so grateful that Coach Cara gave me the opportunity to coach at Marquette,” he re‑ iterated. Is he a better coach today than when he first be‑ gan several years ago? Is he ready for another head coach‑ ing opportunity? “The first thing I think has made me a better coach,” said McChester, “is I surrounded myself with some really good people, some really, really good mentors. It allowed me to be challenged and be able to grow. “Ultimately, I do want to go back to being a head coach,” he said. “In order for me to do that, I got to grow. I think I’m under a phenomenal leader in my head coach right now, who I think is prepping me to take Deont’a McChester Photo by Charles Hallman that next step over to being a head coach. “I’m not really looking for‑ “I never envisioned basket‑ Milwaukee, where she guided ball taking me this far. It open the Golden Eagles to a 21-win ward to that right now,” con‑ so many doors for me, has al‑ season in 2024-25 and the cluded McChester. “When my opportunity comes, it will lowed me to meet some great WBIT second round. “I trust Cara,” said McChes‑ come, but I’m really just here people, coach some really good kids, and just have an ter on Consuegra, last sea‑ to try to help my boss with her vision, to build this program to impact on the game. be a perennial powerhouse in “The game has been really, the Big East.” really good for me,” stressed McChester. “I owe it all back Charles Hallman welcomes to giving to the game, be‑ reader comments to challman@ cause it has allowed me to spokesman-recorder.com. do a lot of things that I prob‑

(S.C.) University (2013-17). McChester joined Cara Consuegra’s staff at Mar‑ quette in 2024 after working with her as an assistant coach at Charlotte for one season. “Coming from Flint, Michigan,” he said proudly, “you have to be ready.

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ably wouldn’t be able to do if I wasn’t a part of the basketball game.” We talked to McChester af‑ ter a 90-47 loss to Minnesota Nov. 11 at Williams Arena. He is in his second season at Marquette as second chair in Consuegra’s second season in

“The game has been really, really good for me.”

nitely something special here.” Banham tries some 3-on-3 Former Gopher WBB great Rachel Banham is set for her first season playing in the sec‑ ond-year Unrivaled 3x3 league when it begins on Jan. 5. “It’s really exciting times,” she told me before leaving for training camp. “They had their first sea‑ son and it was really fun. “3-on-3 — I’ve never done that [before]. But it’s a really fun league to play in — shoot a lot of 3’s and spacing. So, I decided to do it.” Banham, a fourth-round pick in the 2016 WNBA Draft, just completed her second season in Chicago. She will be reunited as teammates with Photos by Charles Hallman Lynx’s Napheesa Collier on Lunar Owls BC this season — studying accounting as her they played together in Min‑ major but says she might look nesota for three seasons. As a result, Banham, who to change her academic focus. “Hopefully by the end of was a one-season Minnesota the year I’ll decide my major,” Gopher assistant coach (2023stressed the sophomore. “I 24), has again put a possible think I’m going to accounting, post-playing career on hold: but we’ll see. Academically, “Absolutely. I’ll coach after I’m done. It can wait,” stressed the it’s going well.” veteran pro guard.

“I knew Minnesota is who I wanted to play for. Minnesota is the place where I want to spend my next four years.”

Fowles joins Fire Speaking of putting a post-playing career on hold, two-time Hall of Famer Syl‑ Being close to home en‑ via Fowles reportedly will join ables McKinney’s folks and the WNBA Portland Fire ex‑ friends to see her play. “It’s pansion team as an assistant like the best thing in the world,” coach in 2026. She hopes one she said. “The fan base is defi‑ ■ See SOE on page 9

It’s happening for White

his week’s column fea‑ tures a student athlete in her final season playing women’s basketball, another finding success in his first collegiate season, five girls basketball players making their mark, and a vet‑ eran high school coach being honored.

of DeSalle’s girls varsity team, Savannah White seemed destined to be remembered as one of the school’s best to ever do it. Well, she did! The 6’2” forward, now a senior at Xavier University, is completing her collegiate ca‑ reer in style — after stops at the University of Wisconsin as a freshman, and Indiana State University during her sopho‑ more and junior seasons— set‑ tling in as a starter for the Musketeers averaging seven points and seven rebounds per game. Don’t let those modest numbers fool you. White has season highs of 24 points (against Drake University), 13 rebounds (Uni‑ versity of Dayton), 5 assists (Drake), 4 steals (University of Evansville), and 9 blocks (Drake). She had an outstanding prep career as a four-year player for the Islanders, lead‑ ing them to the 2019 Class 3A state championship.

El-Amin doing well in first collegiate season The collegiate career of for‑ mer Minnetonka boys basket‑ ball standout Isa El-Amin is off to a great start. Not only is the 5’11” Savannah White (Xavier point guard starting for the University) Minnesota State University Courtesy Xavier University Moorhead Dragons, he is Athletics also averaging 13 points per game. As a senior he aver‑ aged 24.6 points and was a contributor to the Class 4A White playing final college state champions as a junior season From the moment she in 2024. El-Amin recently had a sea‑ stepped on the basketball son high of 28 points against court for the 2018-19 sea‑ ■ See PREPon page 9 son as a freshman member