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THE VOICE OF BLACK MINNESOTA SINCE 1934

January 15 - 21, 2026

Vol. 92

No. 24

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

Activists demand arrest Minneapolis civil rights leaders demand firing of BCA chief of Renee Good’s killer By Clint Combs Contributing Writer

executive director of the Min- “It’s hard enough for us to trust nesota chapter of the Council your agency, given that you on American-Islamic Relations have rubber-stamped police ivil rights leaders in (CAIR-MN) Jaylani Hussein, misconduct in the past.” Evans has led the BCA Minneapolis sharply held a Jan. 10 press confercriticized national ence demanding immediate since 2015 and oversees Black commenta- action in the case. The lead- the state agency responsible tors and called for the firing of ers also explicitly rejected in- for investigating police- and Minnesota Bureau of Criminal volvement from national fig- federally involved shootings.

‘Federal officers are not above the law’

Nekima Levy Armstrong, civil rights attorney, speaks outside the Hennepin County Government Center in downtown Minneapolis. Chris Juhn By Clint Combs Contributing Writer ivil rights activists, members of Black Lives Matter Minnesota, and families who have lost loved ones to police violence gathered in Minneapolis to argue that the shooting death of constitutional observer Renee Good reflects a long and painful pattern of state violence. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension announced it could not proceed with its investigation after the U.S. Attorney’s Office blocked

access to evidence. Activists said they reject that explanation. The coalition is calling on the BCA to continue its investigation regardless of federal cooperation. They are also demanding that Attorney General Keith Ellison, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey in coordination with the Minneapolis Police Department, and Gov. Tim Walz launch a local investigation and arrest Jonathan Ross, the federal agent identified by the Star Tribune as the person who shot and killed Good. Speaking outside the Hennepin County Government Center, organizers emphasized

that the presence of federal officers does not eliminate local responsibility. Civil rights attorney and activist Nekima Levy Armstrong outlined what she described as the legal framework that allows state and local authorities to act even when federal agencies refuse to cooperate. “Federal officers are not above the law, and federal employment does not confer immunity from accountability,” Armstrong said. “Local and state authorities have the legal authority to investigate, arrest and charge a federal officer ■ See CIVIL on page 5

Jaylani Hussein, executive director of the Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MN), speaks Jan. 9 during a Minneapolis protest over the fatal shooting of U.S. citizen Renee Nicole Good by a federal agent. Chris Juhn Apprehension (BCA) Superintendent Drew Evans, accusing him of obstructing the investigation into the shooting death of Renee Good on Saturday. Attorney and activist Nekima Levy-Armstrong and

ures such as Rev. Al Sharpton, The agency has long faced Minister Jamal Bryant, and criticism over its handling of activist Tamika Mallory. police accountability cases, in“Drew Evans, if you will not cluding the investigation into participate in this investiga- the 2016 police killing of Phition, then you deserve to be lando Castile. fired,” Levy-Armstrong said. ■ See FIRED on page 5

Feds block Minnesota Outraged elected officials tell ICE: Leave Minnesota! from investigating ICE killing By Izzy Canizares Contributing Writer United States citizen was shot and killed by federal immigration agents in South Minneapolis the morning of Jan. 7, igniting widespread outrage and renewed demands from city and state leaders for Immigration and Customs Enforcement to leave Minnesota. The shooting occurred near the intersection of 34th Street and Portland Avenue after ICE agents arrived in the neighborhood amid reports of a surge of federal immigration enforcement activity across the state. A viral video recorded Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey (left) and Minnesota Sen. Omar by witnesses shows a woman Fateh. Ben Hovland and Kerem Yücel | MPR News in a purple sport utility vehicle stopped in the street as agents ers attempted to provide of one another.” Another witness told reportapproach. An agent is seen at- aid and perform CPR while tempting to open the driver emergency responders were ers she encountered the scene side door and pull her from the en route. Multiple witnesses while driving through the area reported that federal agents and saw blood throughout the vehicle. The woman then attempts threatened those at the scene vehicle and the deployed airto drive away. Another agent and ordered them away from bag. “They were trying to tell me to move out of the way steps in front of the vehicle the vehicle. State Senator Omar Fateh when they had all their trucks and fires several shots through the windshield. The vehicle said agents prevented a doc- blocking me,” she said. Evan Priest, who lives nearstrikes two parked cars and tor who was present from procomes to a stop. Photographs viding care. “I am deeply conby, said he heard gunshots mofrom the scene show a bullet cerned by reports that a doctor ments before running outside. hole in the windshield on the was denied the ability to pro- “I heard two shots from down vide lifesaving CPR by federal the corner and that is when passenger side. Witnesses said the woman law enforcement,” Fateh said. I came out,” Priest said. “ICE was shot in the face. Bystand- “Please stay safe and take care ■ See ICE on page 5

Protesters stay united, peaceful

By Clint Combs Contributing Writer

contacted her on social media. the road and realized there At the Whipple, she described were other ICE vehicles there,” a similar encounter with federal Phillips said. agents in Richfield last month She said the situation quickwhile monitoring ICE activity. ly escalated, despite no lights “When we were in Richfield or sirens being activated. observing, we were mobile, “The vehicle we had been folcommuting behind some ICE lowing came toward us on the vehicles, which it is legal to fol- wrong side of the road with no low,” Phillips said. lights or sirens, and drove so Video reviewed by the MSR that we had to go backward all shows Phillips approaching a the way to the end of the road. dead-end road while blowing a Then another vehicle was there whistle as an ICE agent drove to block us in. We were surtoward her vehicle the wrong rounded by at least three veway down a one-way street. hicles, and I’d say at least eight “We debated going down it. officers,” Phillips said. We did decide to. And when The encounter ended with ■ See WHIPPLE on page 5 we did, we got to the end of

S. Customs and Border Protection agents arrested three protesters Friday after demonstrators blocked all three entrances to the Whipple Federal Building in Minneapolis, home to ICE’s Minnesota headquarters. The protest came a day after ICE agent Johnathan Ross shot and killed Renee Good near East 34th Street and Portland Avenue. Minneapolis Public Schools canceled classes district-wide, citing safety concerns after the killing of the 37-year-old constitutional observer and a subsequent raid at Roosevelt High School that evening. Organizers said the demonstration aimed to disrupt ICE operations and called for an end to Operation Metro Surge. Protesters surrounded an ICE vehicle attempting to enter the Fort Snelling parking lot. Minutes later, pepper spray was deployed, and demonstrators were forced back onto the sidewalk. Emily Phillips, a constitutional observer like Good, has been at the Whipple Federal Building nearly daily since September, protesting and shouting at agents as they enter and Activists block all three entrances to the Whipple Federal exit. Phillips said ICE agents Building in Minneapolis during a protest on Jan. 8. know her by name and have Clint Combs/MSR

2 January 15 - 21, 2026

Metro

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Minneapolis woman’s split-second heroism recognized By Jasmine McBride Editor

national, acknowledges individuals who act instinctively to save lives in water emerast spring, a routine walk gencies. Reflecting on the event, around Bde Maka Ska turned into a life-or-death moment Black describes the rescue as for a toddler, and an unfor- “all happening so fast, I barely gettable experience for Min- even processed it.” She reneapolis social worker Kar- counted how she and a friend men Black. On May 11, 2025, had decided to walk the lake Black, who is neither a life- twice that day. During their guard nor a trained first re- second loop, she noticed a sponder, noticed a young boy father walking with three chillagging behind his father. Mo- dren; the youngest had fallen ments later, he ran straight for behind. “The child ran straight the lake. Without hesitation, toward the lake,” she said. “I Black dove in fully clothed just took off running, jumped and pulled the child to safety, in, grabbed him, and handed reuniting him with his father him back to his dad. It all hapminutes later, shaken but un- pened so quickly, I didn’t even get my phone wet.” harmed. Black’s instincts, she says, For her bravery, Black was recognized with the Heroic were shaped by her life as a Act Award from the United social worker, a mother, and States Lifesaving Association someone who has always paid (USLA), the highest honor close attention to her surgiven to non-lifeguards for roundings. “I’ve spent my life extraordinary lifesaving acts. caring about people and noThe award, presented by ticing what’s around me,” she Ayanna Rakhu, founder and said. “You can’t help if you’re CEO of Sankofa Swim Inter- distracted. Being present can

make all the difference in the world.” Her awareness, combined with quick thinking, prevented what could have been a tragic outcome. Lifesaving professionals emphasize that drownings are often silent and rapid. According to Stephane Rebeck, a USLA training officer, “Most drownings happen quickly and silently. Karmen’s actions show how crucial immediate response is.” Black downplays her heroism, saying, “I just did what anyone would do. I hope people hear this and realize that paying attention, caring, and acting when it matters … that’s what makes the difference.” She also highlighted how the incident reinforced her belief that swimming should be a universal skill. “Minnesota is the land of 10,000 lakes. There’s no reason people shouldn’t know how to swim. It should be accessible to everyone.” The rescue also led Black to reflect on the modern

munities safer.” For Black, the recognition was also personal because Ayanna Rakhu, a former lifeguard and advocate for water safety, presented the award. “It was really special knowing it was Ayanna,” Black said. “She taught a close friend of mine to swim just before her wedding. To receive an award from someone so dedicated to water safety made it even more meaningful.” The USLA Heroic Act Award places Black among a small national list of individuals recognized for extraordinary lifesaving acts, highlighting courage, compassion, and quick thinking. But for Black, the honor is less about recognition and more about the reminder that “being present, aware and reHeroic Act Award recipient Karmen Black Courtesy sponsive is how we make the world a better place, one small challenges of attention and record something for likes action at a time.” presence. “We live in a world or views. But noticing what’s where people are so glued to happening right in front of Jasmine McBride welcomes their phones,” she said. “In- you, that’s what saves lives. reader responses at jmcbride@ stead of acting, they might That’s what makes our com- spokesman-recorder.com.

East St. Paul getting expanded youth center By Damenica Ellis Contributing Writer PROCEED, a Christian organization focused on connecting residents to education, health care, and economic resources, is building a youth complex designed to meet the East Side’s evolving community needs. Currently housed at Progressive Baptist Church in St. Paul’s Battle Creek neighborhood, PROCEED offers programming that includes youth summer camps, college tours, and a food pantry. The new complex, which will be added to the church’s campus, will consolidate those services while introducing new amenities, including a gym, workforce development center, M Health Fairview medical clinic, and Therapeuo Mental Health Clinic. Morgan Carrillo, who oversees administrative and operational processes for PROCEED, said the complex will serve as a hub for consistent programming and community health. Groundbreaking is scheduled for April, with hopes of opening its doors in October.

some of them, if you don’t have transportation it’s kind of hard to get to them, and there’s a need,” she said. is very important.” Families from nearby apartThe overall goal of the complex is to strengthen the ment buildings already frephysical, spiritual, and holistic quent the food pantry, Clark well-being of communities of added. “Can you imagine them being able to walk up color on St. Paul’s East Side. While PROCEED already the street and everything is hosts community events, the there?” she said, referring to expanded space will allow for the gym, event space, and Proceed Youth Complex architectural preview, offering a vision of what the completed additional programming and clinics planned for the site. “I’m excited when I think building will look like. All photos Courtesy cultural celebrations, including quinceañeras, Hmong New about what we are doing,” Year gatherings, and Liberian Clark said. “I can see what we nerships for the project have enous and people of color, pandemic. are building for our future.” come from the Minnesota De- will also be housed in the “Most kids who look like us and Nigerian cultural events. Clark said the site’s locapartment of Employment and complex. Clark said cultur- won’t express what they’re Damenica Ellis is a freelance Economic Development, the ally responsive mental health going through when they tion on a bus line will increase University of Minnesota Med- care is particularly important can’t talk to somebody who accessibility for residents journalist and contributing writical School and the Minnesota for youth whose lives were looks like them,” Clark said. without reliable transporta- er for the Minnesota Spokesdisrupted during the Covid-19 “So to me, that one component tion. “These other places, man-Recorder. Department of Education.

“Most kids who look like us won’t express what they’re going through when they can’t talk to somebody who looks like them.” Jo Ann Clark, founder of the Thinking College Early Fair and the Progressive Baptist Church Historically Black Colleges and Universities tour, is involved in shaping the youth programming at the center. She said the complex is designed to meet the needs of

Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday

ONE DREAM ONE MINNESOTA 40th ANNIVERSARY STATE OF MINNESOTA HOLIDAY CELEBRATION

Morgan Carillo

Joann Clark

The project carries a $9,949,855 price tag. PROCEED is actively fundraising and has secured several financial partners to support construction. One major partner is Progressive Baptist Church. Pastor Emeritus Earl Miller founded PROCEED 27 years ago as the Progressive Center for Education and Economic Development before the organization transitioned to governance by a board of members. Carrillo said the vision for the complex grew out of longstanding efforts to bridge service gaps observed in the community over the years. Additional funding and part-

residents across generations, from infants to elders. Clark moved to St. Paul’s East Side in the 1980s and has witnessed the gradual loss of local businesses and health care services. She said the new center will help address longstanding concerns around employment access, medical care, and mental health support. The University of Minnesota’s M Health Fairview will operate the on-site medical clinic, alongside the Alter Program, which focuses on the prevalence of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease within the African American community. Therapeuo Mental Health, a clinic serving Black, Indig-

ECHOES OF UNITY

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January 15 - 21 2026

Health

Hunger strike escalates opposition to HERC pollution By Alaysia Lane Contributor Writer The Zero Burn Coalition, a local alliance of environmental justice groups, residents, and advocates, announced plans for a hunger strike as part of an escalating campaign to shut down the Hennepin Energy Recovery Center (HERC), the largest waste-to-energy incinerator in Hennepin County. The announcement came during a December town hall at the Urban League Twin Cities, where coalition members also outlined demands for immediate action, including initiating a closure plan, shutting down HERC within a year, and launching a community-led transition plan for the site. HERC, which has operated since 1989 near Target Field in North Minneapolis, has long been the focus of community opposition. Residents and environmental advocates have been calling for its closure for more than three decades, citing air pollution, public health risks, and environmental racism. Located in a heavily industrialized area, the facility sits amid power plants and other industrial activity where elevated rates of asthma and

and accountability.” Residents also criticized specific commissioners for tying closure to broader goals. District 3 resident Ricky Honald said Commissioner Marion Greene told her she would only support closure if Minneapolis became a zero-waste city first. “She said, ‘I am not “This fight didn’t the leader you’re looking for,’” start last year or last Honald recalled. month. We’ve been The coalition described the holding county officials planned hunger strike as a accountable for more tactic to pressure officials and draw public attention. Orgathan 30 years.” nizer Nazir Khan said a core group will fast for at least five Coalition members cited days, while a larger group will frustration with what they de- participate in shorter solidarscribe as slow county action. In ity fasts. “I’m personally thrilled to be 2023, the Hennepin County Board passed a resolution to escalating this campaign,” said develop a closure plan but Joe Hessler, a District 4 residid not set a definitive time- dent. “It’s about inspiring the line. Residents say continued public to get behind us and delays allow ongoing harm show the county that we deand undermine accountability, mand action.” In addition to the hunger particularly as commissioners Irene Fernando, Angela Conley, strike, coalition members plan and Marion Greene prepare for to attend upcoming Minneapolis City Council and Henre-election in 2026. “Black and brown commu- nepin County Board meetings nities continue to bear the and organize a rally on Martin brunt of these hazards,” said Luther King Jr. Day, Jan. 19, to Sam Sant, a District 1 resident highlight environmental justice and candidate for Minnesota concerns. Over the past year, the coHouse District 43B. “We need transparency, real solutions, alition has actively engaged other respiratory illnesses are reported. “Hennepin County commissioners know this facility is harming our health,” said longtime resident Cassandra Belyeu, whose family lives near HERC. “They also know it can cause death.”

A plan to decommission the HERC incinerator, a process that could extend into the early 2030s. Environmental advocates say they are no longer waiting for city officials to act. Hennepin County Health impacts were a recounty officials and city leaders, secured increased funding curring theme during the town for zero-waste initiatives, and hall. District 4 resident Cassanblocked the establishment of dra Hendrix, whose child has another large waste process- asthma, challenged claims that ing facility in a community of closing HERC would increase color. Despite these efforts, landfill use. “We already have members say traditional advo- a transition plan,” she said. cacy has failed to move county “We’re living the life that people need to follow. We don’t officials quickly enough. “Waiting for the county to need more excuses.” Coalition members emphaact is no longer an option,” said District 5 resident Lois Nor- sized that the planned escargard. “We have to escalate lation is part of a long-term to protect our health and our struggle. “This fight didn’t start last year or last month,” Khan communities.”

said. “We’ve been holding county officials accountable for more than 30 years.” The Zero Burn Coalition’s actions reflect growing environmental justice advocacy across Minneapolis, where residents and organizers are pushing for concrete timelines and accountability in addressing longstanding pollution and public health disparities. Alaysia Lane is a multimedia journalist and commerce writer based in Minneapolis.

Black Medicaid patients face deadly delays in opioid treatment By Jennifer Porter Gore As the nation has grappled with a deadly opioid epidemic over the past two decades, Black communities have faced a crisis of their own. From 2010 to 2019, Black Americans went from being the least likely to die from an opioid overdose to dying at higher rates than white opioid users, according to federal data. A new study published Monday offers insight into why. Researchers found that Medicaid enrollees newly diagnosed with opioid use disorder, or OUD, often wait months before receiving treatment, and that Black patients face some of the steepest barriers to accessing potentially life-saving medications such as methadone and naloxone. The study found that Medicaid patients can wait up to six months to begin treatment, despite medical consensus that people with OUD should receive medication as quickly as possible. As a result, many patients never receive drugs proven to reduce opioid cravings and lower the risk of overdose. The findings also highlight how longstanding health care disparities continue to shape overdose outcomes, particularly for Black Americans, who are disproportionately likely to rely on Medicaid for coverage. “The study shows a critical need for policies that ensure people can access treatment regardless of where they live, how much money they make, or other personal characteristics,” said Peter Treitler, a Boston University professor who specializes in substance use disorder and co-authored the research. But with sweeping Medicaid cuts looming, those policy changes may not arrive anytime soon. The study, conducted by researchers at Boston University and Rutgers University, analyzed medical records from nearly 1.2 million Medicaid enrollees ages 18 to 64 who were newly diagnosed with OUD across 44 states. The data in-

cluded patients addicted to heroin, prescription painkillers and fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid. Many participants also had chronic pain, psychiatric disorders or substance use disorders involving drugs other than opioids. Medication-based treatment, particularly methadone and buprenorphine, has long been shown to reduce withdrawal symptoms, curb cravings and lower overdose risk. Another medication, naltrexone, blocks the effects of opioids but is generally considered less effective for preventing overdose. The new study is among the first to examine access to and outcomes for all three medications among newly diagnosed Medicaid patients nationwide. Researchers found what they described as a modest improvement in treatment access: between 27% and 34% of patients received medication within six months of diagnosis. Still, nearly 69% did not receive any medication during that period. Black patients were about one-third less likely than white patients to receive methadone or other medications to treat OUD.

“Increasing access to methadone may be crucial.” Among the 31% of patients who did receive medication, overdose rates within 180 days were significantly lower, particularly for those prescribed methadone or buprenorphine. Patients receiving naltrexone experienced higher overdose rates by comparison. Timely access to treatment is essential, Treitler and other researchers said, especially for people who depend on public insurance. The study’s authors called for reforms to reduce barriers, including expanded access to take-home methadone doses that can be self-

Pexels/Pavel Danilyuk administered outside of clinics. ing no medication, the stron- Donald Trump in July, includes “Interventions should in- gest protective effect among deep reductions to Medicaid crease the use of medications the treatments analyzed. funding, the primary source of for opioid use disorder and At the same time, pending insurance for addiction treatprovide supports that reduce federal budget cuts threaten to ment in the United States. treatment dropout,” the study undermine treatment access. That same month, the concluded. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, Trump administration delayed The findings come as na- signed into law by President funding for the CDC’s Overtional overdose deaths have begun to decline. Data released earlier this year by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showed a nearly 27% drop in opioid overdose deaths in 2024, the first significant decrease since 2019. But overdose rates among Black Americans remain disproportionately high, with Black men among the most atrisk populations nationwide. Opioid overdose deaths among Black Americans began rising sharply in 2010. From 2019 to 2020, deaths surged by 44%, marking the first time overdose deaths among Black Americans surpassed those of white Americans. The crisis has been especially severe among Black youth ages 15 to 24, with overdose deaths increasing by 86% in 2020 alone. Researchers warned that recent gains could be reversed as access to treatment becomes more restricted. The study found that methadone reduced overdose risk by 86% compared with receiv-

dose Data to Action program, proposing a $140 million reduction, about half of the program’s previous budget. Addiction researchers warned the cuts could result in more than 156,000 people losing access to treatment and lead to roughly 1,000 additional overdose deaths annually. There is no public indication that the delayed funds have since been released. The study’s authors urged policymakers to protect Medicaid funding and expand access to medication-based treatment, warning that failure to do so could halt or reverse recent declines in overdose deaths. “Increasing access to methadone may be crucial,” the authors wrote, “given its large protective effect against overdose and the substantial policy and service-delivery barriers to access.” This article first appeared in Word in Black. It has been edited for style. For more information, visit www.wordinblack.com. Medicaid1.

4 January 15 - 21, 2026

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Business

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Thousands apply for state’s new paid leave program By Clint Combs Contributing Writer Minnesota’s new paid family and medical leave program is officially open for applications, and tens of thousands of workers have already sought benefits in the first weeks of the rollout. The Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) said this week that the program’s full application launched recently, with applications for “bonding leave” for parents who welcomed a child in 2025 having gone live in early December. As of Jan. 2, 11,883 Minnesotans have submitted applications, and the agency has completed reviewing 6,393 of those.

ers, the program represents both opportunity and change. At Smart Set Printing, owner Kevin Brown said the program could ease financial strain his company faced in the past supporting employees on unpaid or limited leave. “About four years ago, one of my employees had a baby. I wanted to keep her as an employee, and we agreed she would use her three weeks of paid vacation. I also had to pay contract laborers to cover her job. That cost me over $2,500 plus more in wages,” Brown said. Under the new state system, Brown estimates his annual payroll tax contribution will be around $1,000, “way less than the average cost of hiring, onboarding and training a new employee,” he said. “I lost a number of employees to Target not because of wages but because of benefits I couldn’t provide.” Business owner Lillian Anderson said she wished the program had existed earlier, recalling the challenges of running a business while caring for her terminally ill mother. “Programs like this help workers employers, which may be split and business owners balance equally with employees. Em- personal responsibilities with ployers can choose to absorb employment,” Anderson said. Proponents maintain the the cost entirely or pass up to half onto workers. The state program will help Minnesota allocated $668 million from its employers compete for talent 2023 budget surplus to sup- in a tight labor market and improve worker retention. State port initial implementation. For small business own- Sen. Alice Mann said the law questions from Minnesotans who need assistance. We’re proud and excited to implement this program for Minnesota.” The benefit program, which took effect Jan. 1 after lawmakers passed enabling legislation in 2023, makes Minnesota the 13th state with a government‑run paid leave system. It allows most employees to take up to 12 weeks of family leave and up to 12 weeks of medical leave, with a maximum of 20 weeks total per year for qualifying events like childbirth, serious illness, caring for sick relatives, personal safety issues, or military family support. Financing comes through a 0.88% payroll tax on most

“Receiving nearly 12,000 early Paid Leave applications shows just how motivated people are to engage with this new program.” “Receiving nearly 12,000 early Paid Leave applications shows just how motivated people are to engage with this new program,” said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. “Our website is managing traffic well, and our contact center team is prepared to answer

leave programs can yield long‑term economic benefits by reducing turnover, increasing employee satisfaction, and enhancing workforce stability. For workers, access to paid leave can mean the difference between keeping a job and enduring financial hardship during major life events. Applications for the program must be submitted through LoginMN, Minnesota’s centralized portal. Workers must verify their identity and provide documentation from a qualified health care professional or other approved source certifying the need for leave. As the state continues processing early applications, DEED expects many more workers will turn to the program throughout 2026. Officials project that about 130,000 claims could be approved during the first year of operation. For small businesses like Smart Set Printing, the coming Minnesota’s new paid family and medical leave program is months will test how the new now accepting applications. program affects operations and workforce planning. But Brown will help close gender and Some employers already said the adjustment may ultiracial wage gaps and benefit offer private paid leave plans mately benefit employers and workers across sectors. that meet or exceed state stan- employees alike. “This gives But the rollout also presents dards, allowing them to contin- businesses a more predictable challenges and adjustments for ue those arrangements instead and shared way to support employers. Business owners of enrolling in the state system. workers during life’s most sigmust update payroll systems, DEED and business groups nificant moments,” he said. ensure compliance with rehave released resources and porting requirements, and plan tools to help employers naviClint Combs welcomes readfor employee absences while gate the new requirements. er responses at combs0284@ maintaining operations. Economists note that paid gmail.com.

TO ALL “Welcome to all” is our open invitation to anyone seeking financial success, however they might define it. So come as you are to Huntington and experience appreciation. Acceptance. Respect. And, most importantly, care.

January 15 - 21 2026

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CIVIL

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when there is probable cause that a state crime occurred.” Armstrong said existing law does not categorically prevent the arrest of federal agents, but instead allows them to raise legal defenses later in court. Activists say that distinction has been ignored in order to shield Ross, who they say was filmed shooting at Good as she attempted to drive away from ICE officers. “What federal law allows is for officers to raise defenses later before a judge, not to avoid arrest altogether,” Armstrong said. “That is why today we are calling on the Minneapolis Police Department and the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office to immediately arrest the ICE agent who killed Renee Good.” Speakers also challenged the official narrative released

FIRED

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Levy-Armstrong also took aim at national civil rights figures who traveled to Minneapolis during the 2020 George Floyd uprising, accusing them of exploiting local trauma while ignoring sustained, community-led organizing. “We do not welcome people like Al Sharpton, Jamal Bryant, Tamika Mallory, and these socalled national Black leaders who have come here in the past to exploit our pain,” she said. “They go on national television and pretend no one is organizing the community when there are literally dozens of trusted, consistent organizations doing that work.” Sharpton, founder of the National Action Network, delivered the eulogy at Floyd’s memorial service in June 2020 and has been a frequent presence in Minneapolis during major civil rights cases. Local

“Renee Good was an American citizen,” Armstrong said. “ICE is an immigration enforcement agency.” For many families in attendance, the circumstances echoed their own experiences with police violence that went unpunished. Toshira Garraway Allen, whose fiancé Justin Teigen was found dead in a dumpster in 2009 following a traffic stop, said the situation felt Thousands of people gather Saturday, Jan. 9, in south Minne- painfully familiar. “You all are witnessing what apolis to protest and remember Renee Nicole Good after she was fatally shot by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforce- our families have endured over ment agent earlier in the week. Chris Juhn and over and over,” Allen said, her voice breaking. “You’re watching them carry out what appears by federal authorities, citing this killing.” The shooting occurred to be an active cover-up, even video footage and eyewitness accounts from the Jan. 7 shoot- during what federal officials though we can see with our own ing at 34th Street and Portland described as the largest ICE eyes what happened.” Allen said that only commuAvenue. They said use-of-force deployment in U.S. history, a standards were violated when campaign organizers said has nity-held video prevented autargeted thorities from fully controlling shots were fired at a vehicle disproportionately Minnesota communities. They the narrative in Good’s case. that was moving away. “And I’m going to say this also emphasized that Good She said that in past cases, inplainly, because the truth mat- was a U.S. citizen, raising ques- cluding Teigen’s, evidence was ters,” Armstrong said. “The fed- tions about why she was con- often withheld or manipulated eral government is lying about fronted by immigration agents. by prosecutors and police. and Sharpton regarding the Minneapolis-based retailer’s rollback of its diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. The meeting sparked backlash from local activists who organized a boycott of Target but were not invited. “It’s unclear to us as Twin Cities organizers why Target CEO Brian Cornell would meet with Rev. Al Sharpton, given that Sharpton had absolutely zero involvement in the Target Nekima Levy-Armstrong criti- boycott,” Levy-Armstrong told cizes civil rights activist Al the Star Tribune in April. NeiSharpton during a press con- ther Levy-Armstrong nor Husference on Jan. 10 and calls for sein nor Monique Cullars-Doty, the firing of Minnesota Bureau who organized protests outof Criminal Apprehension Su- side Target headquarters, were perintendent Drew Evans over contacted by the company. the investigation into the fatal Minister Jamal Bryant, senior shooting of Renee Good. pastor of New Birth Missionary Photos by Clint Combs/MSR Baptist Church in Atlanta, later launched a “Target Fast” during Lent, which Levy-Armstrong organizers have argued that and Hussein said undermined outside figures often overtheir organizing efforts. shadow grassroots efforts. “Al Sharpton, stay where Levy-Armstrong’s criticism you are,” Levy-Armstrong said. follows a controversial April Authorities have identified 2025 meeting between Target Corp. CEO Brian Cornell Jonathan Ross as the federal

“The only difference this time is they didn’t have access to the videos our community had,” Allen said. “White supremacy does not care who it hurts.”

“White supremacy does not care who it hurts.”

echoed calls for immediate action, saying symbolic investigations are insufficient. Accountability, he said, requires arrests, charges, and sustained pressure on those in power. According to “The Trace,” there have been at least 15 shootings by federal agents nationwide, including four deaths during a federal raid in Chicago on Sept. 30 under President Donald Trump. “It starts with accountability. It starts with justice,” Hussein said. “ICE is not above the law. No one is above the law.” For families and organizers, the message was clear: This is not a new crisis, but a continuation of state violence that they say has gone unchecked for generations. Until arrests are made and ICE is dismantled, organizers said, justice in Minnesota will remain deferred rather than delivered.

Organizers connected Good’s killing to broader systems of power rather than individual misconduct, arguing that white supremacy operates through institutions that prioritize control and impunity over human life. “As you can see, they killed a white woman in broad daylight,” one speaker said. “White supremacy has one agenda: control.” Jaylani Hussein, executive director of the Minnesota chapter of the Council Clint Combs welcomes reader reon American-Islamic Relations, sponses at combs0284@gmail.com.

agent who shot and killed ble cause,” Hussein said. “That federal facilities, this could esGood near the intersection requires an arrest of this of- calate immediately.” Independent Black phoof Portland Avenue and East ficer immediately, and that is tographer and journalist King what we’re asking for.” 34th Street. Hussein reiterated that Demetrius Pendleton said he Hussein focused much of his remarks on what he de- Minneapolis does not want was shot in the foot by federal scribed as federal intimida- or need intervention from na- agents during a crowd-control tion and overreach. “In the tional figures. “We do not need operation. He said the incident past 24 hours, we have seen anybody to tell us how to take occurred after agents were seen interacting with Jayden ICE agents continue to harass, care of our people,” he said. He also cited the aftermath Scott, who arrived with Jake intimidate, and target people who are peacefully protesting,” of Floyd’s murder as a warning. Lange, who played Vanilla Ice’s “So many people came here “Ice Ice Baby” and called for he said. not to help us, but to create protection from border agents while protesters heckled them. more chaos,” he said. “It was totally peaceful until In the morning of Jan. 10, “Al Sharpton, white supremacy showed up,” the Department of Homeland stay where Pendleton said. “For them to Security denied entry to Reps. you are.” Angie Craig, Kelly Morrison, shoot me in the foot, right in and Ilhan Omar when they my foot, it threw me back imHe described the scene attempted to meet with of- mediately.” Later that day, thousands outside the Whipple Federal ficials at the Whipple Federal Building as alarming. “What Building. DHS cited the build- of demonstrators marched took place was a showcase ing’s funding source, Presi- from Powderhorn Park to a of Trump’s army protecting dent Donald Trump’s “One vigil on Portland Avenue, deknown Islamophobic white Big, Beautiful Bill,” rather than manding that federal agents supremacists while attacking traditional congressional ap- end immigration enforcement actions and leave Minnesota. propriations, as justification. journalists,” Hussein said. “This is a moment where Both leaders demanded an Clint Combs welcomes readimmediate timeline for pros- Congress needs to act swiftly,” ecution and the arrest of Ross. Hussein said. “If Democrats er responses at combs0284@ “All that is needed is proba- are denied equal access to gmail.com.

less behavior by federal agents in recent days, including runContinued from page 1 ning red lights, driving against traffic, and threatening residents during encounters. The woman killed was agents were outside of their identified as Renee Nicole cars, but I could not see everyGood, a 37-year-old United thing that was happening.” States citizen. A vigil in her ICE confirmed the woman’s memory was scheduled for death, stating that an officer Wednesday evening at 5 fired because he feared for p.m. at East 34th Street and his life and the safety of othPortland Avenue, organized ers. The agency claimed the “These masked agents are out of control by the Minnesota Immigrants woman was using her vehicle and creating real chaos in our state.” Rights Committee. Victim Renee Macklin’s purple vehicle that crashed shortly after as a weapon, describing the City and state officials said she was shot by a federal ICE agent into two vehicles and left docshooting as self defense. That the incident marks an unpreceile after she was transferred to the hospital. Officials say reports account conflicts with video dented escalation in federal imconfirm law enforcement denied doctors the approval to provide claim to be here for safety, and related investigations. footage that appears to show migration enforcement tactics lifesaving CPR. Photo courtesy of Izzy Canizares/MSR the result is exactly the opposite. ” Residents in the area said the the woman attempting to in the Twin Cities and warned Lt. Governor Peggy Flanaincreased federal presence has leave when she was shot. A spokesperson for the De- made neighborhoods less safe. gan issued a statement calling woman in South Minneapolis,” before more people are hurt. that further violence could folIn the face of their violence, let low if operations continue. partment of Homeland Securi- “People are afraid to go out,” said the shooting an act of extreme Flanagan said. “These masked agents are us remain peaceful, calm and violence and urging unity in Danny, a nearby resident who ty (DHS) said the officer acted out of control and creating real united.” Izzy Canizares is a freelance response. “ICE has committed witnessed the aftermath. according to training and that chaos in our state. ICE must Community members also journalist and contributor to the an unspeakable act of violence “I have already been held at the agents involved were exleave Minnesota immediately reported aggressive and reckMinnesota Spokesman-Recorder. today, shooting and killing a gunpoint in Richfield. I am a citpected to recover from injuries.

ICE

Large crowds of neighbors and bystanders gathered near the scene as ICE attempted to establish a two block perimeter. The killing comes amid what DHS has described as the largest immigration enforcement operation ever conducted, with more than two thousand agents deployed to Minnesota following fraud-

izen. ICE was trying to set up a perimeter and push people out.” Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey condemned the shooting and demanded the immediate withdrawal of ICE from the city and state. “The presence of federal immigration enforcement agents is causing chaos in our city,” Frey said at a press conference. “They

WHIPPLE

ably blocked too. So operations are essentially frozen,” she said. Liv Rose, an artist who recently quit her job to focus on activism full time, said she felt morally compelled to protest despite severe health challenges. Good’s killing, Rose said, left her unable to stay home. “I got paralyzed from the neck down from an autoimmune attack when I was 20. Three years later, I’m out here protesting,” Rose said. “I’m in pain. I have asthma. I don’t even know how much time I have left, to be honest, but I’m out here.” Rose criticized federal agents stationed at the building, calling

out what she called performative enforcement. “They’re doing this for show, and they’re all pathetic losers. That’s why their masks are up. That’s why they know what they’re doing is wrong,” she said. Satya Ottercreek, a worker at the State Department of Corrections, said she was motivated by a belief that citizenship carries a responsibility to protect others and resist state violence. Ottercreek described Good’s killing as part of a recurring historical pattern. “It’s a classic example of how much discrepancy there is in the system. History repeats itself over and over again, and

Continued from page 1

officers approaching her vehicle with weapons drawn. “There were some officers that came up to the window, and one came up holding a live rifle, already pointed at us with his finger on the trigger,” she said. Phillips said Friday’s demonstration effectively paused ICE enforcement operations as attention focused on Good’s death. “Look at this road. This is what they have to use. They only have one exit that they can use right now, and that’s prob-

BCA would no longer have ac- that misinformation could escess to the case materials, scene calate tensions. “What makes this moment even more dangerous is not “What makes this moment even more the violence but the lies, the dangerous is not the violence but the lies, distortion, the denial, the prothe distortion, the denial, the propaganda paganda from a federal adminfrom a federal administration that’s shown istration that’s shown again again and again a willingness and again a willingness to exerto exercise brutality.” cise brutality,” Dibble said. Stewart urged protesters Drew Evans, superinten- evidence, or investigative inter- to remain united and commitdent of the Minnesota Bureau views necessary to complete a ted to peaceful protests. “Do of Criminal Apprehension, re- thorough and independent in- not get discouraged. We are fighting for you,” she said. “We leased a statement later that vestigation,” Evans said. State Sens. Rob Dibble and must stand together. We must day saying the U.S. Attorney’s Office blocked the state agency Ann Johnson Stewart joined stay peaceful.” from investigating the shooting. protesters outside the building, Clint Combs welcomes reader re“The investigation would now condemning federal enforcebe led solely by the FBI, and the ment practices and warning sponses at combs0284@gmail.com. it hurts me to see that it just happens again,” she said.

6 January 15 - 21, 2026

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Arts & Culture

spokesman-recorder.com

Line dancing cultivates joy, togetherness And it keeps people moving through Minnesota’s long winters

By Damenica Ellis Contributing Writer Lyntrell Dixson and Essence Jibunor were discussing ways to cultivate joy and foster togetherness last spring when they decided to share their love of line dancing with anyone who wanted to learn. Whenever the two attended events together they would line-dance, Jibunor recalled, a tradition influenced in part by their Southern roots. People around them often asked for lessons in the steps. “We were like, ‘This is a pretty cool concept.’ It gets people moving, grooving, and just kind of interactive with one another as well,” Jibunor said. In the summer, they started She Cultivates and held their first class teaching line dances. Like many African Americans, particularly in Southern states, Dixson and Jibunor grew up line dancing. “Down South, when you get together with your family, your friends — you can be at a barbecue, a party setting, it doesn’t matter — we always break out in a line dance and it brings people together,” said Jibunor, a Floridian who moved to Minnesota in early 2023. “It’s movement, and it’s something that we just truly enjoy.” Bria Black, a product manager at a retail company who moved from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to Minnesota about seven years ago, has attended multiple She Cultivates classes. “It was something that I’ve never experienced in the Twin Cities before, outside of with my friend,” she said. “I’ve never been able to learn them in that type of setting.” Black said the classes provide not only a nontraditional exercise outlet but also a cultural connection. “We’re dancing to Black music, and we’re doing things that are historically Black,” she said.

Essence Jibunor and Lyntrell Dixson lead a She Cultivates line-dancing class. everyone is a key goal for She Cultivates, Dixson said. Jibunor added that it is imperative to share their culture with all participants. “It doesn’t matter what color you are or where you’re from. We want to spread what we bring to the room. “Our ‘Electric Slide,’ our ‘Cha Cha Slide,’ or our ‘Wobble,’ all of the dances we have, we want to teach people of all kinds because there is no race

“It doesn’t matter what color you are or where you’re from. We want to spread what we bring to the room because our culture is rich.”

and event planning business, corporate sessions. As the classes continue Essential Events, and Dixson into their first full year, Dix- runs Herban Meals, a caterson and Jibunor hope to ex- ing and meal prep business. “One person can change pand into senior living facilities, continue working with your entire business, can school systems, and provide introduce you to someone space for community engage- that can change everything,” ment, such as a recent “mom- Jibunor said. “Putting on events to get people togethmy and me” session. Creating networking op- er — women together, Black portunities is also crucial for women together, anyone — is the founders as entrepre- our next goal. It’s just to creneurs. Jibunor owns a decor ate those environments, culti-

Participants gather for a group photo during a She Cultivates line-dancing class. to line dancing. We want to introduce that to different ethnicities and spread our culture at the end of the day because our culture is rich,” she said.

Essence Jibunor (l) and Lyntrell Dixson, co-founders of She Cultivates, pose for a photo. “For the Black community, that’s something we always kind of connect over, dancing, and it’s important in a place where it might be harder to find that community.” Creating a safe space where Black women can be themselves and shine while cultivating joy for

for someone else to start. Our line dancing brings people out of their comfort zone, out of their seat, and just gets them loose and having fun.” She Cultivates has a temporary partnership with Brooklyn Center Community Schools that began in November, holding two classes each month at Brooklyn Center Elementary. Independently, the co-founders also aim for two classes a month and offer private and

Dixson said the classes also encourage movement, which is especially valuable in Minnesota winters. “It’s cold. You’re stuck at home oftentimes, and especially around this time, the biggest thing is movement,” said Dixson, who moved to Minnesota from Louisiana following Hurricane Katrina. “We know how movement is connected to the body and the mind and how, for people suffering from depression or challenges they’re facing, movement is so important.” Jibunor said line dancing also helps people step out of their comfort zones. “If you compare the South to Minnesota or the Midwest, people are more shy, kind of waiting

All photos are courtesy of She Cultivates vated by us.” Black said she has experienced this intentionality firsthand at She Cultivates events, noting ice-breaker questions, breakout groups, and themed sessions that allow participants to meet each other and feel carefree. Damenica Ellis is a freelance journalist and contributing writer for the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder.

spokesman-recorder.com

Education

January 15 - 21 2026

Minneapolis parents, teachers demand ICE leave after targeting schools

day. Families were also given the option to continue online learning through Feb. 12 due to increased federal enforcement activity. “Since Wednesday’s [Jan. 7] events, parents across Minneapolis, not just immigrant families, are afraid to send their kids to school or even go outside,” said Jennifer Arnold, a parent of a second grader in South Minneapolis. “In Minnesota, we take care of one another. Families at my son’s school are working together to make sure kids can get to school safely and have access to food and support. I do this because I believe in my community and because all children deserve to be safe,” said Arnold As ICE activity continues at schools, grocery stores, and in residential neighborhoods, community members said they have mobilized to support families who are afraid to leave their homes. Mutual aid efforts have included grocery deliveries, transportation, child care coordination, and distribution of hygiene supplies. “We keep ourselves safe,” said Christine Crabtree, a South Minneapolis high school parent. “Some are delivering groceries. Some are making sure kids can get to school. Some are watching over their blocks, while others are making sure families have a roof over their heads. “Every day, I see neighbors showing up for one another. In this city, we love each other, and love is an action.”

By Izzy Canizares Contributing Writer

Minneapolis public school educators and families gathered the morning of Jan. 9 for a press conference demanding federal immigration enforcement leave Minnesota, following the killing of Renee Nicole Good by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent and reports that ICE officers targeted multiple Minneapolis schools in the days after her death. In the past week, families and community members across the city have reported fear and uncertainty about leaving their homes amid increased ICE activity, including attempted enforcement actions near high schools during dismissal hours and the fatal shooting of a U.S. citizen inside her vehicle. Parents and educators said Hours after Renee Nicole Good was fatally shot by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent, federal immigration the presence of immigration officers were reported at Roosevelt High School in South Minneapolis during dismissal on Jan. 7, prompting Minneapolis Public enforcement has traumatized Schools to cancel classes for the rest of the week. Chris Juhn children and disrupted school communities, prompting the ed ICE operation near the in- age that community members Minneapolis. Video circulating hours after the horrific murder press conference at Lake Hi- tersection of East 34th Street and advocates say contradicts online shows officers tackling of our neighbor,” said Natasha and Portland Avenue. Authori- that claim. The killing has individuals on school grounds Doctor, a Minneapolis Public awatha Park. “I am angry. I am scared. ties have identified ICE agent drawn national attention and during dismissal and using what Schools social studies teacher. And I am devastated about Jonathan Ross as the shooter. sparked outrage among local appeared to be pepper spray as “Wednesday’s event was trauwhat we are doing to our ba- Good was shot multiple times and state officials, some of students and teachers attempt- matic for our students, our bies,” said Amanda Otero, co- while inside her vehicle, ac- whom have called for Ross to ed to leave. DHS has denied staff, and our community. “Unfortunately, it was not be prosecuted and for ICE to using chemical irritants, characexecutive director of TakeAc- cording to witnesses. terizing the actions as crowd- surprising,” said Doctor. “The withdraw from Minneapolis. tion Minnesota. main story in Minneapolis is the “The presence of federal control measures. “Places where they should At least one Roosevelt staff violence against our immigrant immigration enforcement not only be safe, but be cared “I am angry. I am agents is causing chaos in our member was detained during neighbors and the fear and for and nurtured to learn and scared. And I am city,” Mayor Jacob Frey said the incident. “We seen them collateral damage it is causing grow, are being made unsafe. devastated about during a press conference fol- tackling teachers on the floor,” across our communities.” This week, we have witnessed Minneapolis Public Schools lowing the shooting. “We are said Roosevelt high school state violence escalating. It is what we are doing student Naima Abdullahi. “I initially closed schools on Jan. demanding ICE leave the city not abstract. It is not theoretito our babies.” and state immediately. We ran because I was scared for 7 following Good’s death. Afcal. It is deadly, and it is evter reports of ICE activity at stand rock solid with our im- my life.” erywhere on our streets,” said “Educators at Roosevelt Roosevelt High School and The Department of Home- migrant and refugee commuOtero. saw the safe and stable envi- other campuses, the district Good, a 37-year-old mother land Security quickly defend- nities.” Izzy Canizares is a freelance Just hours after Good’s death, ronment our schools provide announced schools would journalist and contributor to of three, was killed Jan. 7 dur- ed Ross, calling the shooting ing what community leaders an act of self-defense despite ICE agents were reported at violated by federal immigra- remain closed for the rest of the Minnesota Spokesman-Rehave described as an attempt- the existence of video foot- Roosevelt High School in South tion enforcement agents just the week and reopen Mon- corder.

Is college still worth it?

the medical field,” Wahogo Osman said. “Students are being more said. She explained that school- intentional about their choicing is essential for her desired es. They’re thinking critically career: “In order to be in the about what they want to medical field, you need edu- study and how college fits into cation.” So far, she said college their long-term goals.” Osman said students are I could pursue my dreams of a four-year degree may not at the University of St. Thom- feels worthwhile because of being a teacher without wor- guarantee long-term stability. as, shared a different perspec- the knowledge she is gaining. researching programs, comAffordability, however, re- paring institutions, and conrying about money,” Tichy said. “I worry that my four years of tive. “My drive in pursuing Launched in 2024 the The education won’t be enough to higher education is to fulfill mains a concern. “No longer sidering how different pathNorth Star Promise Scholarship get a good-paying job and that a career in a field I’ve always being able to afford it worries ways align with their career Program offers free college tu- I won’t be able to find work been interested in,” Carroll me,” Wahogo said. “Commu- ambitions. At the same time, nity college isn’t expensive, interest in alternative pathsaid. ition and mandatory fees for when I’m done,” she said. ways has grown. qualifying Minnesota residents “There’s been a real surge in attending public or Tribal colinterest around skilled trades leges in the state. It covers tuand certificate programs, ition and fees remaining after which reflects a more mature other gift aid is applied. understanding of career pathConcerns about the broadways,” Osman said. Students er political climate also influare exploring careers in weldence how Tichy views higher ing, HVAC, electrical work, education. plumbing, cosmetology, and “I worry about the curhealth care certifications such rent administration’s view as CNA or medical assisting. of the necessity of teaching, Many are drawn to the opporespecially in the arts,” Tichy tunity to enter the workforce said. “It’s disheartening to see quickly and avoid long-term people, even in STEM, getting debt. degrees and barely able to get “I think there’s also less jobs outside of food service.” stigma around trades than Other students express there used to be,” Osman said. deeper concerns about pursu“Students and families are ining postsecondary education. creasingly viewing these as viLene Olmanson, a University Wellfleet Student able, respectable career paths of Minnesota student gradurather than backup options.” ating in 2028, said family presAs winter break ends and She added that the chal- but transferring to a univerExperts note that while sure influenced her decision most Americans still see value lenges of college help prepare sity will be. With financial aid students return to classes, to attend college. Asked if college feels worth in higher education, the idea her for the future: “Work ethic becoming harder to get and many are doing so with a it so far, Olmanson said, “Hon- of college as essential has and concentration! The curric- limits on certain graduate pro- clearer, though more compliestly, no. I serve at a fine-din- weakened over the past de- ulum is one thing, but the long grams, it’s harder for the aver- cated, understanding of what ing restaurant where I make cade. According to a Septem- nights and early mornings on age person to get the educa- college means. For some, it remains a necessary path more money than I would ber 2025 Gallup report, 35% top of assignments and study- tion they need.” Ali Osman, a licensed to their goals. For others, it working in the career I’m pur- of U.S. adults say a college ing are the biggest preparaschool counselor at South is one option among many, suing. It feels silly to spend so education is “very important,” tion for what lies ahead.” For Kayla Wahogo, a first- High School, said students weighed against cost, mental much money on school and down from 53% in 2019 and have to work the whole time 75% in 2010. Another 40% year student at Saint Paul Col- are no longer automatically health, and long-term stability. just to end up in a career that consider it “fairly important,” lege, her decision to attend assuming college is the next Lizzy Nyoike is a student at won’t pay as much as I make while 24% say it’s “not impor- college was tied to career step. “The vast majority of my goals and financial realities. students have developed con- the Hubbard School of Journaltant.” now.” Victoria Carroll, a student “Money and wanting to be in crete plans for their futures,” ism & Mass Communication. Still, Olmanson worries that

Students reconsider as tuition costs rise By Lizzy Nyoike Contributing Writer As students take a break from lecture halls and coursework for winter break, some are using the time to rest, while others reflect on whether college is still worth it. With rising tuition costs, growing debt, and an uncertain job market, students across Minnesota are reevaluating the value of higher education. A recent survey conducted by this reporter found that while most college students still believe in the power of education, their support is increasingly shaped by tuition costs, mental health, and career outcomes.

“It’s disheartening to see people, even in STEM, getting degrees and barely able to get jobs outside of food service.” Lou Tichy, a second-year student at the University of Minnesota’s College of Liberal Arts, said pursuing college felt like the natural next step after high school, especially after the Northstar Promise. “When the Northstar Promise was announced, I realized

NOTICE OF INFORMAL APPOINTMENT

8 January 15 - 21, 2026 OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND

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Opinion

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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. Notice is further given that ALL CREDITORS having claims against said estate are required to present the same to said personal representative or to the Probate Court Administrator within four months after the date of this notice or said claims will be barred.

Dated: June 24, 2025

Lindy Scanlon Registrar

ProSe

Sara Gonsalves District Court Administrator Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder July 10, 17, 2025

Plymouth, MN

Reckless ICE murder demands accountability

ACCOU N T I NG The MSR handles billing digitally. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ANDDEPT CREDITORS: ment these actions and report communities nationwide 2026 marks the 199th year and This means you will get e-tears and e-mailed invoices @that BILLI NG@SPOKESMinnesota Spokesman-Recorder JulyBlack 10, 2025 Press in America, are theappointment truth. of personal represenstanding in an solidarity, callof the Notice is given application for informal unless you specifically request a hard copy. tativefor has been with the Registrar. No will.COM has been presented for probate. The Mfiled A N-R ECOR DER Already false narratives justice and accountsince its founding in 1827. ing

application has been granted. have emerged, with some atWe are proud of the progress ability. This incident occurred just a tempting to portray the victim the Black Press has made, not Notice is hereby given that informal appointment of Michael Ryan Hild, whose adDISPLAY blocks from where George only reporting the truth in all few as55406 a threat or representative terrorist. Nothdress is 4034EMPLOYMENT 40th Ave S., Minneapolis, MN as personal of was murdered and situations over the past nearly Floyd ing made. couldAny beheir, further from SIZE 2 COL X from 2 INCH the estate of the above-named decedent, has been devisee or other the interested person be entitled to appointment as personal representative may offices ofmay the Minnesota two centuries, but also advo- the truth. This is a clear or example RATE: $44.60 PCI object to the appointment of the personal representative andin the power personal represenRecorder. cating for freedom, justice and Spokesman of those misrepreTOTAL: $178.40 tative is empowered to fully administer the estate including, after 30 days from the equality. senting a situation, perpetuatdate of issuance of letters, the power to sell, encumber, lease or distribute real estate, In Minneapolis, Minnesota, unless objections thereto are filed with the Court ing(pursuant racialto and injustice, Sectionsocial 524.3-607) and on Jan. 7., America witnessed and violating civil and human the Court otherwise orders. Please proof, respondrights. with email confirmation to ad another tragic police killing. given that ALL CREDITORS having againstof saidthe estate are spokesman-recorder.com We are grateful that the Min- Notice is further On claims behalf Black required to present the same to said personal representative or to the Probate Court nesota Spokesman-Recorder Press of America, we stand Administrator within four months after the date of this notice or said claims will be The MSR handles billing stands as a truth-teller, docu- barred. withdigitally. the people of MinneapoThis means you will get and the e-mailed invoice menting events accurately lis e-tears and with Minnesota unless you specificallySpokesman-Recorder. request a hard copy. We call for the public. The death of Dated: June 24, 2025 Lindy Scanlon a 37-year-old Minneapolis for justice and full accountRegistrar mother, Renee Nicole Good, ability for the officers involved We believe that when in thisSara was completely avoidable, un- ProSe tragedy, Gonsalves ensuring that necessary, and the result of people of goodwill come to- thoseDistrict responsible are held fulCourt Administrator gether, here in Minneapolis recklessness by federal ICE ly answerable for their actions. lynchings to stop-and-frisk Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder July 10, 17, 2025 and across the country, justice agents. to modern policing, the soil of People across the nation has a greater chance of being Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. is this nation is soaked with our served. Nonviolent protests and around the world have president and CEO of the Nablood. are a vital way for the public expressed condolences to the tional Newspaper Publishers Those arguing that Good to express anger and demand victim’s family. At the same Association (NNPA). should have complied with ICE officers, or shouldn’t have been there at all, are repeating a script Black people know by heart. We heard it after Trayvon Martin, Tamir Rice, Sandra Bland, Philando Castile, and George Floyd. The dead must have done something to de- By Judge Paul Michel allow small companies to out- fringers. serve it. Usually, that “someUnsurprisingly, mammoth compete established firms on thing” is failing to instantly corporations are now seekWe live in arguably the the merits of their products. obey a white man with a gun. most innovative and prosperAs Aghion and Howitt ing to suppress third-party The video of Good’s killing ous era in human history. My demonstrated, this cycle of funding through multiple bills. matters. It challenges the ad- lifetime alone has seen nu- research, risk-taking, and re- One is the so-called Tackling ministration’s narrative. But merous technological leaps investment has fostered dra- Predatory Litigation Funding for Black Americans, bearing that past generations could matic economic growth. Ad- Act, which would impose a witness has come at a cost. never have dreamed of, in- vances in recent times have massive tax on proceeds from cluding the moon landing, produced dramatic improve- litigation funding, essentially the birth of the internet, and ments in medicine, communi- reducing incentives for innow the rise of artificial intel- cation, and other technologies, vestors to support even the as well as historically high strongest lawsuits. ligence. Another proposal, the But this pace of transfor- standards of living. Small-business innovation, Litigation Transparency Act, mation is historically the exception, not the rule, and it in particular, has been funda- would require complete dismay not continue much lon- mental to America’s economic closure of all litigation-fundger if the infringer lobby gets success. Small businesses file ing agreements, exposing the more patents per employee extent of small inventors’ reits way. For more than a decade, vidThat’s the lesson to be than larger ones. They also sources and often their legal eos of Black people killed by drawn from last year’s Nobel provide over 60 million jobs strategies and handing big the state have circulated end- Prize in Economics, which nationwide and almost 45% companies a litigation advanlessly — Trayvon Martin lying was awarded to Joel Mokyr, of GDP. tage. in the grass, Tamir Rice shot Philippe Aghion, and Peter seconds after police arrived, Howitt for explaining how George Floyd murdered less innovation drives growth. than a mile from where Good Aghion and Howitt’s research was killed. shows that the process of Black Americans warned “creative destruction” — new, this country what would hap- better technologies continupen if Donald Trump returned ally replacing old ones — rests to power. We warned that on incentives such as patent violence would expand. Now rights, which push the best that it has reached people technologies to the top of the By undermining a crucial Today, however, Big Tech who did not expect it, shout- market by enabling innova- and other corporate interests lifeline for small companies, ing “we told you so” does little tive upstarts to compete with are trying to weaken Amer- these bills would effectively good. ica’s patent system to stifle allow large infringers to ignore larger incumbents. How should we respond? Their findings are a timely smaller competitors. For years, patents with impunity. ConBy caring for ourselves and reminder, because today pow- some corporations have used gress would be wise to reject each other, by building com- erful corporate interests are “efficient infringement” to them. munity, and by refusing to sur- pushing sweeping proposals sidestep patent rights. Rather This year’s Nobel Prize in render our humanity. that would erode America’s than license a competitor’s Economics underscores a simHours after Good’s killing, patent system. Since Con- patented technology, they ple truth: America’s economy Dr. Joy DeGruy was clear: “I gress wants innovation to simply copy it, then drag out has flourished because our leam unapologetically Black. My flourish and future genera- expensive lawsuits hoping gal system has historically refocus is on Black people.” That tions to prosper, it must not the smaller firm runs out of warded innovation. Attempts focus, she says, does not limit let these efforts succeed. money. to subvert enforcement of compassion for others. “It’s To level the playing field, patent rights would underPatent rights have undernot the limit of my love or my pinned America’s innovation- small inventors increasingly mine vital incentives, putting interest. We need everybody driven prosperity since our rely on outside help. Third- our future prosperity at risk. on board.” country’s founders enshrined party litigation funding agreeNeutrality, in moments like them in the Constitution. By ments, which enable outside Judge Paul R. Michel (ret.) this, is alignment with power. granting inventors a tempo- investors to finance a lawsuit served on the United States We must demand justice. But rary, exclusive right to their in exchange for a portion of Court of Appeals for the Federal we must also choose love — inventions, patents give in- any damages awarded, allow Circuit from 1988 to 2010. He not as naïvety, but as moral vestors opportunities to earn inventors to have a chance is a board member of the Invenclarity. In that sense, Mayor returns on risky research and against deep-pocketed in- tors Defense Alliance. [Brandon] Johnson’s words were not comfort but instruction: Do not let them take your soul. We will get through this.

This is the America Black people have always known

By Liz Courquet-Lesaulnier Just hours after federal agents shot and killed Renee Nicole Good in her car in Minneapolis, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson posted a video to Instagram. Instead of rage, the mayor offered a warning for cruel and heartless times. “Do not let them change the part of your soul that sees a fellow human being when you look at your neighbor,” he said. “We will get through this.” For Black Americans, who have borne witness to far too many killings like Good’s, the mayor isn’t wrong. Many of us are heartbroken. Seeing the video — a masked Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent firing point-blank as Good tries to drive away, then almost casually holstering his weapon and walking from the scene — is horrifying. It may even be traumatizing. But we are not surprised. We have seen this playbook for centuries. This is how white supremacy operates. Some are now saying that if this can happen to a white woman, then none of us are safe. Which is exactly the point. Safety in a system steeped in anti-Black racism and deadly state force has always been a mirage. When officials insist this “isn’t the America we know,” Black people hear something else entirely: This is the America we know — the one that

justifies killing people because someone suspects they’ve done something wrong. It is the America that privilege has long shielded white people from seeing. The shock many feel now raises a harder question: not what has America become, but when did America start behaving like this toward white people? History tells us that white people have long paid a price for standing with Black and brown communities. The government executed John Brown in 1859. The Ku Klux Klan murdered Viola Liuzzo in 1965. A white supremacist killed Heather Heyer in Charlottesville in 2017.

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“We call for justice and full accountability for the officers involved in this tragedy.”

Big Tech abuses patent law to crush competition

Black Americans warned this country what would happen if Donald Trump returned to power. We warned that violence would expand. The lesson is clear: Stay on the sidelines and you’ll stay alive. Fight injustice and you might end up dead. As Rep. Wesley Hunt of Texas put it this week, “When a federal officer gives you instructions, you abide by them and then you get to keep your life.” Black Americans know this reality intimately. Racism and state violence are not bugs in the system — they are features. From Jim Crow

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Patent rights have underpinned America’s innovation-driven prosperity since our country’s founders enshrined them in the Constitution.

This commentary first appeared in Word in Black. It has been edited for style and length. For more information, visit www. wordinblack.com.

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ford is a sophomore from Brooklyn Park and Champlin Continued from page 10 Park HS. He and twin brother Jermaine played for Minnesota’s Clem Haskins in the mid-1990s. “I try to come to and different ethnicities, all of her games,” said Jason backgrounds, and everyone of his daughter. Said Jada, “I would love to is coming together.” Soph Hanif Muhammad see more people of my color (Minneapolis/Breck HS), a supporting our game. I love transfer from St. Cloud State that this school is diverse. pointed out, “I say the chemis- That’s one of the reasons I try [on the men’s team] is great.” decided to come here.” Both AU squads won Junior Ali Axmed (Lakeville, Minn./North HS) their games vs. Macalester stressed that the diversity is last Saturday 102-70 to go most attractive to recruits of 11-3 overall, 4-1 MIAC, its color: “I think they feel com- best start since a 9-2 start fortable coming in here. We in 2021-22. The Auggies have that bond that no team women also triumphed 8671 and now 5-8, 2-4 MIAC. has in the league.” “As we keep winning, in However, you still don’t see a lot of Blacks at Aug- time [Black fans] will defigies games other than play- nitely show out,” concluded ers’ parents, family members, Muhummad. and friends. Charles Hallman welcomes “I don’t know if there is a reason,” said Jason Stanford, reader comments to challman@ monwhose Burris: *Black History daughter JadaMatters: Stan- spokesman-recorder.com. Simon Burris: *Black History Matters: ossword: 2026 Martin Crossword: L. King Day2026 **Martin L. King Day ww.simonburris700.com

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R AT E $18.10 PC I (1ST RU N) to fight against autism. SU BTOTAL: $162.90 His last season after over Continued from page 10 four decades on the sideMcKeown held assisPlease proof, respond lines with — email comfirmation to tant jobs at Oklahoma and ads@spokesman-recorder.com Kent State, his alma mater, before he was elevated to proud of them.” HC — digitally. is not a “farewell tour” The soon-to-be-retired HC The MSR handles billing despite him being honored also won gold, a 6-0 record as This means you will get e-tears and emailed everywhere he goes this U.S. head coach in the 2016 invoices unless you specifically request a hard season. There’s too much World University Games. copy. McKeown’s coaching career coaching left to do. “I wanted this season to will be a two-fer — he is the winningest coach at George be really, really memorable Washington (441 wins) and for him right now,” said Northwestern (over 270 and NU Associate HC Tangela counting), 17 NCAA appear- Smith on McKeown. “It’s ances, a WNIT runners-up not going the way we berth, the 2019-20 Big Ten planned. But you know, we regular season title, confer- have a long way to go.” ence coach of the year, and runner-up to Dawn Staley for Finally… The 1982 Cheyney State national top coaching honors NCAA Final Four team is that season as well. McKeown also is a proud among the nominees as father of three, including eligible candidates for the up-and-coming broadcaster Naismith Basketball Hall of Meghan McKeown, who is Fame Class of 2026. They the mother of his first grand- are the first and only HBCU child. He and his family are team to compete for a naactive in the Autism Speaks tional title. The finalists will Foundation, a national or- be announced Feb. 9. ganization that promotes awareness and raises money Next week McKeown talks about Smith, who has been with him for eight seasons, and her progression as a coach.

VIEW

Simon Burris: *Black History Matters

5 8 910 10 1 2 1 3 2 4 3 54 6 76 87 9 oss Across 1 . **Martin L. King's Peace Prize *Martin L. King's Peace Prize 12 11 12 11 . **King 1965arrest ML King * 19656ML sitearrest site 14 15 13 11 . *" 40 Acres and __ __ (failed promise 14 15 13 *" 40 Acresmade and __ __ (failed promise to 5 million former slaves (1865) 16 17 18 19 made to 5 million former slaves (1865) 16 17 18 19 12 . *President Barack H. ___ 20 21 22 23 24 *President Barack H. ___ 13 . **Egypt's boy-king 20 21 22 23 24 **Egypt's boy -king 25 26 27 14 . Lecture (L _ _ _ _N) M A R T I 26N 27L K I N G 25 Lecture _ _ _ _N) 16(L . Dances with lines M A28 R T I N 29 L K I N G Dances lines of "Family Feud" 20with . *Harvey 28 29 30 31 32 24 of . "Flying Down to __" (film) *Harvey "Family Feud" 30 31 3233 . **Theme this puzzle** 34 35 36 37 "Flying25Down to __"of(film) 28 . of *Boxing icon Muhammad **Theme this puzzle** 34 36 37 41 35 42 38 39 3340 29 . *Pharaoh's country *Boxing icon Muhammad 44 41 42 38 39 43 40 30 . *Roman Pope ____ (Afro-Creole descent) *Pharaoh's country 33 . Spring flower 44 43 *Roman Pope ____ (Afro-Creole descent) 35 . **'Montgomery' ___ boycott (1955) Spring38 flower . Arab ruler **'Montgomery' ___ boycott (1955) 41 . *Black Wall Street race massacre locale (1921) Arab ruler 43 . Desert sight 20 . Auction . **Activist *Black44 Wall Street race locale (1921) Rosamassacre ___ 21 . Threesome Desert sight 22 . _ _ cetera Down 20 . Auction **Activist Rosa ___ 1 . *Turner or King Cole 23 . Virgin Islands (initials) 21 . Threesome 2 . Ole Miss University, informally . **_ _ _colm X (civil rights activist) 22 . _ _25 wn cetera 3 . "_ _ _ love covers all wrongs" (Proverbs 10: 2) 26 . Large (abbr.) 23 . Virgin Islands (initials) Turner or King Cole 4 . __ Paso, Texas 27 . Louisville, _ _ 25 . **_ _ _colm X (civil rights activist) Ole Miss University, informally 5 . *Film director Spike __ 31 . 13, in ancient Rome 26 . Large _ _ _ love covers all wrongs" (Proverbs 10: 2) 6 . Lukewarm 32 . (abbr.) Bothers 27 . _ Paso,7 Texas Louisville, . Black, in poetry 34 . State_ _Pro (abbr.) 31 . 13,35 Film director Spike __ in. ancient Romebriefly 8 . __ Mesa, California Black Rector, 9 . 32 . Bothers 36 . United States Kosher (initials) ukewarmRoman numerals, 2000 . *Tennis legend Ashe's monogram 37 . Pro *Malia's sister: (_ _ _HA) 34 . State Black, in10poetry (abbr.) 15 . 38 . *Part of the play "Fences" (2 wds.) Thus 35 . Black Rector, briefly _ Mesa, California . Hold tight 39 . *KAMALA _ _ RRIS 36 . United oman17 numerals, 2000 (initials) States Kosher 18 . *"___ Misbehavin" (song) 40 . Abbr. for Eastside 37 . *Malia's sister: (_ _ _HA) *Tennis legend Ashe's monogram 19 . Soak 42 . Union Army (abbr.) 38 . Thus *Part of the play "Fences" (2 wds.) Answers will appear week _ _ RRIS 39 .next Hold tight *KAMALA 40 . Abbr. for Eastside *"___ Misbehavin" (song) 42 . Union Army (abbr.) Soak

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is getting used to the pace. College is way faster than high school.” Last month, however, it appeared that Randle found his groove — he came off the bench and led the Scots with 21 points in 19 minutes in an 86-78 loss at Carleton College Dec. 10, with 6-for9 shooting from three-point land and snatching four steals in his best game thus far as a collegian. He finished with nine points and a rebound in last Saturday’s 102-70 defeat at Augsburg to drop to 1-5 in league play (6-9 overall). Randle is a biology major: “I’m doing nursing, premed,” he declared. “First of all, I don’t think there’s a lot of African American nurses, specifically male. “But also, giving back to my community is really important, and something I wanted to focus on,” said Randle.

places I really felt at home … On top of it, I love the academics. This is where I knew I wanted to go from the beginning.” Two weekends ago, Randle reunited with Woldeslassie after the Denver-St. Thomas contest. We earlier asked how he handled the coaching change — Rich Glesmann was hired as the Scots’ new head coach. “I think Coach Glesmann has done a pretty good job. He’s a really good coach,” said Randle. Expectedly, Randle had to adjust from high school to college ball no matter who is coaching, no matter what level it is. How has the transition been for the freshman — rough, smooth, or somewhere in between? Charles Hallman welcomes “It’s been half and half,” admitted Randle. “It’s not as reader comments to challman@ consistent. I think a lot of it spokesman-recorder.com.

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At Augsburg, more diversity makes great chemistry By Charles Hallman Sports Columnist ast weekend, I watched a total of six games over a five-day period – four at Williams Arena (2 WBB, 2 MBB) and a MIAC WBB/MBB doubleheader at Augsburg. It was my annual weekend of hoops in the dead of winter that I’ve done for several years now. I am not a hoop snob who only watches so-called bigtime basketball. The non-athletic-scholarship athletes deserve as much love as the Big Ten players. It also is a more enjoyable experience as opposed to the too commercialized atmosphere at The Barn these days. Speaking of the MIAC, where all 13 member schools are located within the Minnesota state borders, the conference

14-player WBB roster, and the men have seven Blacks and a total of eight POCs on its 17man squad. “I came from a very private white high school (Hill-Murray),” said soph guard Evelyn Perkins of Oakdale, Minn. “So having a diverse school environment was one of the most important things for me when I decided to come [to Augsburg]. My teammates and I talk about this all the time. We compared our bench to other teams’ playing benches, and I Augsburg WBB players (l-r) Jada Stanford, Evelyn Perkins, wouldn’t trade with [them].” Wakinyela Bear, LaiLoni Harris, Macaria Person, Leilani Fonoti in recent years has striven to move from its traditional allWhite league to one that is growing more diverse every school and sports season. Augsburg University, located in the shadow of the larger

University of Minnesota in the Cedar-Riverside community, has virtually become the MIAC’s diversity model in several sports: AU WBB has five Native American players and three Black players on its

Three reach 1,000 point career mark McCoy, a 5’9” junior guard who started her prep girls basketball as a seventh grader at St. Agnes, is averaging 18.8 points per game for the Aggies with a season-high 38. All three are the leading scorers for their team.

“It’s nice to see people and different ethnicities, backgrounds, and everyone is coming together.”

Augsburg MBB players (l-r) Lavar Jones, Jr,. Daveion Hart, Elias Batala, Hanif Muhammad, Ali Axmed Photos by Charles Hallman “That’s a big reason I came here,” added junior guard Elias Batala (Apple Valley/Eastview HS). “I have a lot of people like myself with similar traits come here. It seems like a family.” Senior guard Wakinyela Bear (Morrison, Colo.) said she and fellow senior Amira LaDuke (Cass Lake, Minn.) both came to AU at the same time; they are two of the five Natives on this year’s Auggies. “I feel like Native Americans

play a different type of basketball we call “rez ball,” stressed Bear. “We really like the community here, very diverse compared to other schools in the MIAC.” “It’s real nice to be on a basketball team where I don’t feel like I am standing out and everybody is looking at me,” said soph LaiLoni Harris (Burnsville/Bloomington Kennedy HS). “It’s nice to see people ■ See DIVERSITY on page 9

Big Ten WBB winningest active coach retiring

their careers. Gillespie, a 6’9” forward who went on to star at Baylor University, currently plays in the Proballers League for Galalasaray Turkey-BSL. Brown, a 6’7” shooting guard who starred at Baylor as well, plays for the Maine Celtics in the NBA G League.

Minnesota-Northwestern contest, a 79-47 Wildcats defeat. It was his last visit to The Barn as the winningest active coach in Big Ten WBB, having announced last year his retirement after this season. The host Gophers recognized McKeown before the Former prep players at pro level game, then ran his team out of Two former East Ridge the gym. The Wildcats never First of two parts boys basketball players are A continuing legacy stopped competing and were Former St. Paul Como Park he 1,000-point career currently playing in the proonly outscored 31-29 in the oe McKeown and Tom second half; NU outscored mark is quite the ac- fessional ranks. Professional boys basketball great Donald Izzo are two of my favorite Minnesota 20-14 in the final complishment for bas- players Freddie Gillespie West has two sons playing for visiting Big Ten coaches. 10 minutes of the contest. ketball players at any level. (2014) and Kendall Brown Concordia University-St. Paul. They are Sam West, a 6’4” se- They both avoid click-bait sound Three of the top Twin Cities (2021) were standouts for the “When you’re coaching every metro area high school basket- Raptors before embarking on nior guard, and Jade West, a 6’ byte responses. Instead, these day and you’re in the grind of sophomore guard. Both prepped two longtime coaches regularly the Big Ten,” noted McKeown, ball players recently reached provide thoughtful responses “you have nights like tonight at Shakopee High School. that 1,000-point career mark. West was an all-city guard to my thoughtful questions where you’re so mad. EveryLamont Michaels, Trey Parker, for Como during the mid-1980s. off-podium after their required body’s frustrated, but then you and Ma’Lon McCoy all reached post-game media scrums. the mark this past week. realize at the end of the day it’s McKeown began his head about your team, your players.” Shoutouts to six boys basketball Michaels, a 6’0” senior women’s basketball coaching coaches guard who’s in his fourth varAl Harris (Maranatha), Co- in 1986 at New Mexico State sity season at Two Rivers High “When you’re coaching lin Moore (St. Paul Johnson), around the same time I began School, is currently averaging every day and you’re Ahmil Jihad (Minneapolis my stint as the longest tenured 13.6 points per game for the in the grind of the North), Malique McCoy (St. Gopher women’s sports beat Warriors with a season high Big Ten, you have Agnes), Anthony Harris (North reporter locally. He moved on of 23. nights like tonight St. Paul), and Myles Shepherd to George Washington in 1989, Parker, a 6’2” senior guard where you’re so mad.” then Northwestern in 2008, (Minneapolis Washburn). in his fourth consecutive varwhere we began our annual sity season at Apple Valley During his NU stint, McKeDr. Mitchell Palmer McDon- off-podium sit downs. High School, averages 23.1 own coached Hopkins High Last Thursday, McKeown School grad Nia Coffey, one ald welcomes reader comments points per game for the Eagles Trey Parker (Apple Valley) chatted with us after the of several Minnesota-based with a season-high of 38. Photo by Amy Perusso to mcdeezy05@gmail.com.

Joe McKeown Photo by Charles Hallman prep players that played for him in Evanston, Ill. Coffey was the first Wildcat player to make first team All-Big Ten (2013-14). She later became a WNBA first-rounder (5th overall, 2017) and an All-Star. McKeown also coached Veronica Burton (7th overall, 2002 W Draft), who this past season was named most improved player with Golden State in its first season in the league. He coached many other players who went drafted. “More importantly,” reiterated the coach, “it’s the ones that are not the all-Americans, too. They just make Northwestern a great place. Really ■ See VIEW on page 9

MAC teams adjust to new coaches

MSR after a Jan. 3 home game that being able to go home for the holidays was greatly welven at the Division III comed and appreciated. level adjustments are “I had a really great time necessary, which is with my family,” said Smith. the case for both Macalester “Just a lot of rest.” Scots basketball teams with Said Edmond, “It was just new coaches this season. It nice to be able to be with my certainly is expected for both family and be with people players and coaches, especial- who I care about a lot, who ly returning ones. And even care about me — my support more so for first-year players.

Second of two parts

system. It was nice to be in some warm weather this past break as well.” Smith and Edmond, both juniors, also expressed relief after surviving a tough fall semester of classes. “I completed a really hard semester,” stressed Smith, a biology major. “I took biocem, anatomy and physiology, and a sociology class. I also took

WBB welcomed winter break The recently ended holiday break couldn’t have come at a better time for Sydnee Smith (Gainesville, Va.) and Acacia Edmond (Houston, Tx.), two returnees from last year’s Scots women’s basketball team. Their last game of the 2025 calendar year was a two-point loss at home vs. Carleton College Dec. 10, After nearly three weeks off, an eternity in a college basketball schedule, both players told (l-r) Acacia Edmond, Sydnee Smith

Photos by Charles Hallman

an anthropology class. I got through it and I enjoyed it a lot.” “This past semester was also pretty tough for me,” added Edmond, an Academic All-MIAC last season, “but it was good to be able to learn and grow different skills that I haven’t been able to do with both my computer science and biology major.” Outside of the classroom, Smith, Edmond, and their teammates also had to adjust to a new coaching system led by AD Donovan. The Scots are still seeking their first conference win. “We’re definitely rebuilding this year,” declared the 5’9” Smith, who has started 45 of 48 games in her first two seasons at Mac. The guard has been the team’s leading scorer thus far this season (9.8 ppg). She had nine points and a block in an 86-71 defeat at Augsburg last Saturday to remain winless in conference

(l-r) Denver Ass’t Coach Abe Woldeslassie, Jamal Randle play (0-6, 1-11 overall). “We got a new coaching staff, so it’s a lot to learn. We’re playing with a whole new starting five as well,” she pointed out. Said the 5’3” Edmond, “It’s always fun to grow and learn with this group of girls here … who put 100% in every day.” Smith and Edmond are the Scots’ only Black players on the roster. Both believe that brighter days lie ahead for the team this season. “We’re all so excited to be here again,” said Smith. “I think we’re progressing, too.”

MBB sets faster pace St. Paul native Jamal Randle was recruited out of high school by former Macalister head coach Abe Woldeslassie. Randle played varsity basketball for Great River School in St. Paul through a partnership with Twin Cities Academy. “Abe did a pretty good job. He made me feel at home,” the 5’11” guard told MSR on Woldeslassie, who left Mac last spring to take an assistant coaching job at Denver. “This is one of the ■ See SOE on page 9