Vol 93/ Edition 9 - Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder

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THE VOICE OF BLACK MINNESOTA SINCE 1934 October 1 - 7, 2026

Vol. 93

No. 9

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

By Joseph Williams

knowing that there was trauma to his body, and despite hearing many inconsistencies?” Wonsley fter 132 subpoenas said at a news conference. and testimony from A Jackson County, Missis43 witnesses, along sippi, grand jury unanimously with extensive fofound insufficient evidence of rensic evidence, a criminal wrongdoing in Wells’ grand jury declined to indict death, ending, at least for now, anyone. Wells’ family says the a closely watched investigation decision still doesn’t answer that has drawn national attenits most important question: tion, including the involvement What happened to Nolan? of civil rights leaders and relentChristine Wonsley has less speculation online. spent nearly three months But the decision did not publicly asking the same agoresolve the central mystery Nolan Wells (left) and his mother Christine Wonsley nizing question: What led to the drowning of her 18-year- Attorney Ben Crump, who represents the parents of Nolan lingering over the case since Courtesy of Christine Wonsley/Facebook old son, Nolan Wells, after a Xavier Wells, holds a stack of printed Snapchat messages Wells’ body was recovered Fourth of July boat outing with taken from Wells' phone during a news conference Thursday, July 6: what were the exact position of Wells’ body were fied his cause and manner of Screenshot circumstances of his death? a group of teenage friends on Sept. 24, 2026, in Florida. “consistent with drowning.” Yet death as undetermined. a Mississippi island park? both Mississippi’s chief mediFor Wells’ family, that Friends left him behind On Tuesday, after a grand jury noted he had injuries on his body, no closer to an answer. cal examiner and an indepen- distinction is everything. The grand jury concluded dent forensic pathologist heard witness testimony and yet declined to charge anyone in “How can a jury come to the The grand jury’s verdict reviewed autopsy reports that Wells’ death, Wonsley said she is conclusion of drowning, despite the location, condition and hired by Wells’ family classi■ See NOLAN on page 5

ZERO BURN COALITION AS MPS WEIGHS SCHOOL CHANGES, pushes for stricter HERC monitoring, 2027 closure

By Alaysia Lane Contributing Writer he Zero Burn Coalition is urging Hennepin County officials to adopt stricter emission monitoring requirements for the Hennepin Energy Recovery Center (HERC) and commit to closing the Minneapolis trash incinerator by the end of 2027. The proposal comes as county leaders continue discussions about the county’s 2027 budget and the facility’s future. Located near downtown Minneapolis, behind Target Field, HERC burns municipal solid waste

collected from across Hennepin County and generates electricity through combustion. Supporters say the facility reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills, while critics argue incineration contributes to air pollution and disproportionately affects nearby communities. Coalition representatives say current emissions testing fails to capture the full range of pollutants the facility releases. Mike Ewall, executive director of the Energy Justice Network and a coalition member, compared annual emissions testing to a driver slowing down before a known speed trap. ■ See HERC on page 5

North Side board member presses for

PROOF OF EQUITY

By Jasmine McBride Editor

s Minneapolis Public Schools weighs three options that could close, merge or redraw attendance boundaries for schools across the city, the school board member representing North Minneapolis says the district must show that the communities hit hardest by past closures will come out ahead this time. "Equity cannot simply mean spreading change around the city," said Sharon El-Amin, who represents District 2 and founded Parents Alliance Reclaiming Our Schools (PAROS). "It has to mean that communities that have historically carried the greatest disruption can clearly see the investment, stability, and academic opportunities their children will receive on the other side of that change." MPS presented the options to the School Board on Sept. 15. Feedback is open through Oct. 16, the board will get an update Oct. 20, and changes could take effect in the 2027-28 school year. Asked at a recent media briefing which option she would choose, Superintendent Lisa Sayles-Adams said the decision is "fully up to the school board."

MPS Superintendent Dr. Lisa Sayles-Adams addresses concerns at the John B. Davis Education Service Center, Sept. 25. Screenshot from live MPS press conference

about reducing expenses." Because funding follows students, schools need a minimum enrollment to pay for that experience: 432 students for a community elementary school and 648 for a middle school, or 360 and 594 at schools where at least 70% 'Not about reducing expenses' "Transformation is about using our resources of students qualify for free or reduced-price Zero Burn Coalition members gather at a Hennepin County budget meeting Tuesday, Sept. 22, differently to provide a better and more consis- meals, since those schools have smaller class to demand closure of the Hennepin Energy Recovery Center. Geoff Dittberner tent experience," Sayles-Adams said. "It's not ■ See MPS on page 5

Hospice nurses, doctors take on Allina Health over pay, staffing in dueling strikes

By Clint Combs Contributing Writer

tract before it takes effect. SEIU Healthcare Minnesota & Iowa, representing the ore than 60 hospice hospice nurses, says its memnurses picketed out- bers have been stretched thin side Abbott North- providing end-of-life care western Hospital while being asked to do more on Wednesday, Sept. 16, de- work with fewer resources. manding overtime pay and Phillip Cryan, executive vice holiday and weekend pay from president of SEIU Healthcare Allina Health as bargaining Minnesota and Iowa, said pay talks stretched past the one- is the remaining item under year mark. The hospice nurses’ negotiation. “These nurses are asked, reseven-day strike overlapped with 150 unionized doctors’ ally they’re required, to work lots and lots of extra hours, historic four-day walkout. Following the walkout, the and they’re not given addiDoctors Council agreed to a tional compensation like they tentative deal with Allina on would be if they were treated Sept. 22. The Doctors Council as hourly workers,” Cryan said. will vote on ratifying the con- “We’re asking for holiday pay.

Chryst said Allina hasn’t recall the last time she worked replaced hospice workers she under 40 hours. “I don’t mind the salary for says left after feeling overthe eight hours, but I need to worked. Allina did not respond be compensated for the time to a detailed list of questions that we are working beyond as of this writing. that,” Chryst said. “Or they “A few years ago, we had need to find enough nurses to four case managers, LPNs “I don’t mind the make sure that we only have that worked with us, and salary for the needs that we can fill in the now we’re down to two case eight hours, eight hours and other nurs- managers, no LPNs to help us but I need to be es are meeting those other out directly with our teams compensated for needs.” because we’re sharing LPNs Smerz said hospice workers throughout the whole system,” the time that are required to work overtime Chryst said. “So our staffing we are working due to a staffing shortage. has gone down immensely. beyond that.” “Allina wants to blame it on They just are not replacing the new Paid Family Medical the nurses that are retiring or Leave Act. It’s kind of interest- moving on to other positions ing,” Smerz said. “They want because they are burnt out.” to say we are understaffed Hospice nurses provide We’re asking for time and a described Allina as once a because all these people have direct patient care in homes, half or some kind of bonus “dream job” for hospice nurses. taken leaves for different inju- assisting with pain, nausea, Chryst, an in-home hospice ries or medical needs or family anxiety and depression manand incentive for when they’re required to work extra hours.” case manager, has worked for support. That is categorically agement, according to Chryst Lila Chryst and Susie Smerz Allina for 26 years. She can’t not true.” ■ See ALLINA on page 5

2 October 1 - 7, 2026

Metro

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Flow Foundation’s ‘Crown Within’ event creates space for healing during Alopecia Awareness Month By Jasmine McBride Editor Hair can often tell a woman’s story, but for many women navigating medical hair loss, that journey can feel isolating. On Saturday, Sept. 19, local nonprofit Flow Foundation set out to change that narrative, hosting The Crown Within, a free community event at The Neu Neu in Minneapolis designed to empower women experiencing alopecia and hair loss from medical treatments. Flow Foundation was founded two years ago by Getinet Alemu and his wife, Milka Fisiha, after watching close family members navigate the emotional and physical toll of hair loss. The organization provides personalized, high-quality wigs with custom color and texture matching, a detail Fisiha said is often overlooked for Black and Brown women in standard hair replacement options. This year’s gathering carried the theme “Bloom.” Fisiha told attendees the organization wanted the day to be a space where guests could show up as themselves, whether that meant wearing something on their crown or not. “We work with anyone that’s experiencing hair loss, and that could be due to alopecia, cancer, or any other medical health condition,” Fisiha said. “We want to make sure that people can come into the space as they are.” Fisiha said the foundation has shifted its focus year to year. Last year’s event centered on cancer-related hair loss; this year the team wanted to make sure alopecia itself received full attention. “Cancer has touched every-

Flow Foundation founders Getinet Alemu (front row, far left) and his wife, Milka Fisiha (front row, fifth from left), with attendees and supporters at The Crown Within, a free community event at The Neu Neu in Minneapolis, Sept. 19. Courtesy lot of groups that are doing what the Flow Foundation is doing,” she told the crowd, drawing applause. She said she brought the discovery to her vice president and asked for the company’s support for Flow Foundation’s work in 2026 and beyond. Corporate support finds “This type of engagement a gap in the advocacy is not widely seen in the alolandscape Pfizer, one of the event’s pecia areata community,” she sponsors, also sent a repre- said. “You guys have Pfizer’s sentative from its alopecia commitment.” areata team to address attendees. The team, formed A personal journey, shared within the last eight months, publicly Shaniqua Edwards known includes eight members working nationally to invest in the as “Ms. Neeq” shared her own alopecia areata community, story of living with alopecia, which she said began in fifth the representative said. Speaker Vibrant described grade before she even had a searching for advocacy groups name for what was happening doing similar work and coming to her. She recalled wearing a scarf up largely empty outside of the National Alopecia Areata to school and a classmate tryFoundation. “There are not a ing to pull it off during math body in one way or shape or form,” Fisiha said. “We really wanted to make sure that we support anyone that’s experiencing cancer and medical hair loss as well. This is a space for everybody.”

class, and a friend shielding “It’s good to meet people where people, but it’s like we’re her head until she could re- they’re at, whether or not they like it’s just us,” she said. “To trieve it. “Another core memo- want to get treatment, whether see that we have a commury for me on this journey,” she or not they don’t want to get nity and people that support said, adding that at the time treatment,” she said, inviting us and support Flow, it just she still didn’t understand why attendees to connect with her makes me really happy and just warms my heart.” she had alopecia or where it after the event. At the event, Flow Foundacame from. tion also continued its push to She told the room that fund custom wigs for the roughhaving no hair “shouldn’t be a shameful thing that makes ly 15 women on its waiting list, us hide behind wigs,” and that part of its broader mission to self-worth shouldn’t hinge on ensure every woman waiting for wearing a wig or having hair her crown receives one. at all. Coming to terms with Flow Foundation has a hair loss, she said, allows evfundraiser event coming up ery hairstyle to be worn with on Oct. 17 at Kendra Scott confidence. in Rosedale from 2 to 4 p.m. For many in the room, the Twenty percent of all sales will “Walk in and be proud of who you are, and walk in that day’s significance came simply support Flow Foundation’s from being among others who Wig Program. For more inforself-admiration,” she said. Brandon Storman, who understood the experience. mation on Flow Foundation, works directly with people Vibrant said seeing a full com- visit www.flowhair.org/. navigating hair loss, encour- munity show up, rather than aged attendees to move at facing hair loss alone, was Jasmine McBride welcomes their own pace regardless of deeply affirming. reader responses at jmcbride@ “We know there’s other spokesman-recorder.com. whether they pursue treatment.

“Walk in and be proud of who you are, and walk in that selfadmiration.”

Jeremiah Program convenes local leaders to discuss policy pressures facing single mothers By Jasmine McBride Editor

three lenses: one’s own family, the families people are close to, and families more broadly, Jeremiah Program (JP) asking attendees to hold all hosted “A Community Con- three in mind as the discusversation” Sept. 25 at the Uni- sion unfolded. versity of St. Thomas’ Schulze Hall, bringing together JP leadership, alumni and community members for a panel discussion and audience Q&A on the mounting economic pressures facing single mothers ahead of policy changes taking effect this fall. Chastity Lord, JP’s president and CEO, opened the event by naming the moment directly. She said the conversation was arriving during what she called a particularly challenging year for MinneAmanda Luedtke, execusota, the Twin Cities and the country as a whole, and she tive director of JP’s Minneapasked attendees to hold the olis campus, spoke about the discussion with that context work of translating that pressure for people who aren’t as in mind. Lord pointed to Oct. 1 as closely connected to single a key date, when SNAP and or student parents day to day. Medicaid cost-sharing re- She said her role often inquirements shift so that states volves helping people outside take on 75% of the admin- that experience understand istrative responsibility, up what it actually looks like to from 50%. She said families navigate overlapping burare entering that shift already dens around childcare, food, navigating utility prices rising transportation and access to faster than anticipated, along jobs, all while those pressures with escalating food and compound at once. She said housing costs. She framed many people already sense the day’s conversation around the strain through their own

From left: Chastity Lord, Karina Villeda and Amanda Luedtke Photos credited to MRPP & Associates Communication experiences, filling up a gas tank or shopping for groceries, but aren’t necessarily grounded in what it means to face all of those pressures simultaneously as a single or student parent.

SNAP place a larger cost burden on states and add new administrative work requirements at the county level, work counties haven’t historically had to manage at this scale. She pointed to other

quired step, calling it a burden that effectively forces families to repeatedly prove they deserve to feed themselves. She framed her work as connecting that lived reality to policy solutions moving forward. The event also included a reading from “The Student Parent” by Nicole Lynn Lewis, in which an attendee shared a passage examining how the U.S. tends to favor visible, convenient responses to poverty, like food and shelter drives, over addressing its unstates where similar changes derlying causes. The conversation builds on have already led to eligible Jasmine McBride welcomes people losing SNAP benefits work Luedtke’s Minneapolis reader responses at jmcbride@ despite completing every re- campus has been doing for spokesman-recorder.com.

“Lord pointed to Oct. 1 as a key date, when SNAP and Medicaid cost-sharing requirements shift.” Luedtke connected that educational work directly to the policy shifts ahead. She said the October changes to

years. JP has served families since 1998, when founder Michael J. O’Connell recognized that women experiencing poverty face systemic barriers, from unstable housing to lack of child care, that make pursuing an education nearly impossible. The organization’s two-generation model rests on five pillars: access to higher education, affordable child care, affordable housing, empowerment and leadership training, and career development. To join the program, mothers complete a 12-week Empowerment and Leadership course offered online, connecting participants across all nine JP campuses nationwide. Afterward, mothers can pursue an associate or bachelor’s degree with JP as a partner, supported by family coaches who guide them through the process. JP’s Minneapolis campus houses 39 fully furnished units across three floors, and the organization has helped more than 4,000 mothers and children nationwide since its founding. For more information, visit www.jeremiahprogram.org/

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Scrub A Dub Dub Professionals

Black Business SPOTLIGHT

more say over her work hours. Scrub A Dub Dub Professionals launched in July 2025. Now, Waweru provides residential and commercial By Lizzy Nyoike cleaning services while arContributing Writer ranging her schedule around After years of evening her family. She said she can shifts in health care, Tabitha attend her children’s school Waweru started Scrub A Dub events and spend more weekDub Professionals to set her ends with them. “Kids grow so fast,” she said. own schedule and spend more time with her children. “Being my own boss is the best When Tabitha Waweru thing.” walked her daughter to the bus stop one morning, her daughter said something that stuck with her: “Mom, see you tomorrow.” Waweru was working 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. shifts in health care. By the time her daughter returned from school, Waweru would be at work. By the time Waweru got home, her daughter would be asleep. “I was like, ‘Hmm, what?’” Waweru’s first cleaning job Waweru said. “That scared came through a friend who me.” A conversation that started had encouraged her to pursue with her daughter pushed her the idea. When she told him toward a career change she she was thinking about startsaid she had been consider- ing a cleaning business, he ing: starting a business of her offered her a chance to clean own. Waweru said she enjoys his office. From there, she said, cleaning, and running a clean- new clients began finding her ing business would give her through word of mouth.

Sponsored by

“Don’t just keep saying, ‘Oh yeah, I can do this. Take the step of faith.”

Business

Earlier this week, Word In Black convened researchers, food advocates and Black farmers for its second panel event focused on how food issues in the United States are affecting Black Americans. The conversation, “What’s On Your Plate Part II: Black Farmers Roundtable,” was sponsored by the Knight Foundation and featured Dr. Christa Mahlobo, Word In Black’s research director; Sha’ka Von Thomas, founder of the Houston Board of Food Security; and Tambra Raye Stevenson, founder and president of Women Advancing Nutrition, Dietetics and Agriculture, known as WANDA. Joining Thomas on the panel were Jeremy Peaches, founder of Fresh House Grocery and BlackFarmerBox.com, and Elisabeth Ramsey, known what funding goes to the FDA, online as “The Farming PhD.” what funding goes to SNAP, what funding goes to the The food system at a USDA,” said Joseph Williams, breaking point The event grew out of Word In Black’s head of conWord In Black’s “What’s On tent and panel moderator. The conversation revolved Your Plate” report, published Sept. 3, examining food around how food access and safety, food deserts and the trust in food safety are the policies shaping what ends up product of policies affecting on Americans’ plates. “Food subsidies, deregulation, land touches education, where dispossession and civic diskids go to school and get engagement. Panelists argued free lunches, and what those that reversing course will take lunches are. It touches politics, the same policy tools that crewhich is where people decide ated the problem.

3

Building a business one clean at a time Today, she sometimes works alone and other times brings in other cleaners, depending on the size of the space. Her company offers regular and deep cleaning for homes, as well as commercial cleaning. Waweru also organizes while she cleans. Waweru is particular about detail. If dishes are in a kitchen sink, she washes them. “We don’t cut corners,” she said. “We clean everywhere.” Waweru said she wants clients to feel the difference when they return home. A message from a pleased client gives her motivation to keep going, she said. Although her work setting has changed, Waweru sees a connection to her years in health care. After years of working in an industry caring for people, she said she hopes to bring that same attention to the homes she cleans. She Scrub A Dub Dub Professionals Founder and CEO Tabitha Waweru Lizzy Nyoike/MSR knows that after a long day, a client may want time with doing a good job,” she said. “Don’t just keep saying, ‘Oh site before providing a quote. their children instead of anLaundry is not currently yeah, I can do this,’” Waweru For first-time residential other household task. cleanings, Waweru said she among the company’s servic- said. “Take the step of faith.” Waweru is currently look- generally charges by the hour. es, though Waweru said she Customers can request ing for more cleaners to help Two homes with the same may consider adding it in the cleaning through the comthe business grow, though number of bedrooms and future. pany’s website at www. hiring has been a challenge. bathrooms can take different Waweru said opening her scrubadubdubpros.com/ or by She wants people who enjoy amounts of time to clean, she business required taking a calling 651-259-1294. cleaning and will give clients’ explained. Once she’s famil- step of faith, acting on an idea homes the same care she iarized herself with the home she had set aside for years. Lizzy Nyoike is a Hubbard does. and the work it requires, she She had considered other School of Journalism & Mass “I don’t want to have people discusses a recurring arrange- businesses before, but this Communication student and who are going to clean peo- ment with the client. For com- time, she said, she finally took contributing writer for the Minple’s houses and they’re not mercial spaces, she visits the that step. nesota Spokesman-Recorder.

Black farmers roundtable: Food is more than what’s on your plate By Jennifer Porter Gore

October 1 - 7, 2026

ately to unhealthy food en- ing property since a relative’s vironments.” Mahlobo noted service in World War I. “I was that many survey respondents the first individual in my famwho don’t qualify as food in- ily to actually purchase land secure still control costs by right next to my grandma’s “trading down,” buying chicken house,” he said, describing “Families, especially moms, instead of beef or frozen veg- how he turned a quarter acre into a functioning flower farm. are asking three critical ques- etables instead of fresh. Peaches traced his own surtions: Can I afford it? Can I name to a Mississippi plantatrust it? And can I find the Reclaiming land, reclaiming tion where his grandfather food that actually works for power For the farmers on the pan- tended a peach orchard. Stemy family and for my culture?” Stevenson said. “A mother el, the work is inseparable from venson pointed to historic may know exactly what she how it’s perceived. Ramsey re- all-Black towns in Oklahoma, needs to feed her children called being the only person of arguing that “economic power and still be negotiating price color on an urban farm early turns into political power.” and transportation and quality in her career. “I was told that farming’s really ‘white,’ and if Finding good food locally and recalls and time.” Panelists said federal But Thomas, who works di- it’s something I wanted to do rectly with Houston residents, that I would just basically have safety-net programs remain said the most common ques- to suck it up and do it,” she said, central to food access, citing tion he hears has little to do recalling Black volunteers she SNAP benefits, food policy with recalls. “Where is local supervised describing them- councils and farmers market food? Where do I go for local selves as “indoor slaves and “double up bucks” programs not outdoor slaves.” that match assistance dollars food?” he said. for fresh produce, even as some programs face cuts. The economics of cheap food “The people Peaches suggested simple Peaches, who runs a Houswith the fewest first steps. “Just Google what’s ton grocery store, said federal economic in your area, what Black farmsubsidies for staple crops quiers are in your area, what coetly determine what fills Amerchoices end up ops you might have,” he said. ican carts. Wheat, corn, soybeing exposed Ramsey pointed to resources RDNE Stock project beans and oats are subsidized disproportionately like the Black Farmers Marcommodity crops that become the backbone of processed Trust in the food supply hits to unhealthy food ket in North Carolina and the Black Farmers Index, which food, he said, while fresh proa cliff environments.” helps shoppers find BlackA newly released Word In duce is largely left to the marPeaches said that history owned farms nearby. Thomas Black survey of nearly 1,300 ket. “This is 70% of what the Black Americans, “At the Ta- grocery store is. It’s not fruits still shapes how the profes- encouraged neighbors to look ble,” found that trust in the na- and vegetables,” he said, ar- sion is viewed. “It’s always out for one another directly. tion’s food supply is collapsing. guing that the imbalance, not been looked at as a slavery “Get your hands in some dirt. Mahlobo reported that about personal choice, explains why thing for African Americans,” Help out your neighbors.” 80% of respondents agreed processed calories are cheap he said, arguing that agriculture should instead be reThis article appeared first to some extent that the food and fresh ones aren’t. Thomas described the cur- claimed as “economic power.” in Word In Black and It has served in the U.S. is not great Thomas described buying been edited for length. For the for their health, and 60% said rent system as “a eugenicsthey feel insecure about food based food system,” adding, land next to his grandmoth- original, visit www.wordinblack. safety altogether, down from “The people with the fewest er’s house in South Baton com/2026/09/black-farmersa national trust rate of 70% economic choices end up be- Rouge, on a street where his roundtable-food-is-more-thaning exposed disproportion- family had lived without own- whats-on-your-plate/. just two years earlier.

4 October 1 - 7, 2026

Arts & Culture

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Twin Cities Black Film Festival marks its 24th year with new home in Edina By Charles Hallman Contributing Writer It hasn't been around as long as other local film festivals, but the Twin Cities Black Film Festival (TCBFF) is nearing a quarter century of spotlighting Black films. "After four incredible years at the Capri in North Minneapolis, we're excited to embark on a new chapter in the lovely city of Edina … uplifting Black storytelling and celebrating the filmmakers who bring it to life," TCBFF Founder/Director Natalie Morrow posted on the festival's Facebook page. TCBFF24 ran Sept. 25-27 at the Edina Theatre, 50th and France. "I just reflect on how my films that I started with, how I started, how much I've learned, how much I've grown and how much I'm still growing. Twenty-four years is crazy," Morrow said in an MSR interview before the festival. "I can't believe I've done it this long, but I'm glad I did." For more than two decades, Morrow has turned a dream into an annual cinematic event showcasing Black films, shorts and documentaries by local and national filmmakers, established and novice alike, at various Twin Cities locations each fall. Morrow has also brought in

a labor of love, but one that hasn't come without hiccups over the years, especially in the festival's founding years. "I think the support could be better on both sides," Morrow said. "I look at some of the other festivals here, and the support is there. There's a lot of stuff that people don't know that have happened over the years behind the scenes, where some of our relationships with businesses have been sabotaged to the point where we weren't able to put out what we wanted to.

“After four incredible Natalie Morrow

Photos courtesy of Charles Hallman/MSR

special guests for post-screening Q&As with the audience. "We've had everyone," she said. "We were able to bring in Nate Parker. He was writing 'Birth of a Nation.' We brought Pam Grier, Sterling K. Brown before he blew up, we had him here. I remember Angela Bassett. She was here doing another event, but she stopped through for us. "Will Smith has always been someone who helped me. He helped me with my relationship with 20th Century Fox, so I appreciate him," Morrow said. She also credited Van Hayden, an independent filmmaker and producer who first

interned on Spike Lee's "Mo' Better Blues" in 1989. "Van started off volunteering with us on our very first film festival," Morrow said. "Van was one of the ones that started off and helped us kind of shape the Twin Cities Black Film Festival in the right direction." Veteran actor and director Gregory Alan Williams made an appearance last year following a screening of a film he acted in and produced. Through it all, the constant has been Morrow, who screens the submitted films and introduces them, along with the filmmakers when they're available. She calls it

years at the Capri in North Minneapolis, we’re excited to embark on a new chapter in the lovely city of Edina.” "But I still kept going," she said. "I know we were a threat, because why would you try to sabotage another festival if they weren't a threat to you? It gives me more energy to keep pushing, and we are still here." This year's TCBFF in Edina followed the festival's usual structure: Friday was Minneapolis night, featuring local and statewide filmmakers; Saturday offered a full day of

Gregory Alan Williams films and shorts; and Sunday closed with a brunch. "We do have some good films. We have a smaller amount, about 20 to 26 films," Morrow said before the festival. "We usually show around 40, but we've got some really good ones. We're excited to be at the Edina Theatre on 50th and France this year. A new space, a new feeling." Morrow suffered a stroke a few years ago but kept TCBFF moving forward despite periods of limited mobility. "I am hanging in there. I'm getting better," she said. "I'm still doing my therapy. God's teaching me

a lot. He's still by my side. I'm still grateful, still thankful. "And as long as He wakes me up every day, I give Him the thanks and I keep it going." Morrow said she plans to take a break after this year's festival. "I think after this year, Lord willing, I will take a break to just regroup to 2027 and come out and get ready for the next 25 years," she said. For more information on the Twin Cities Black Film Festival, visit www.tcbff.org. Charles Hallman welcomes reader responses at challman@ spokesman-recorder.com.

Pinocchio is now running at Children’s Theatre Company By Aamira Redd Contributing Writer

getting the opportunity to experience something new in my body with this show,” said Collins. According to Collins, those attending can expect a fun and interactive show, complete with moments when the characters break the fourth wall. She hopes audience members will come ready to engage their imaginations and embrace the playful nature of the production. In this rendition of Pinocchio, the characters enter the story as painters, adding a unique creative element to the classic tale. “There’s a lot of spectacle, in the sense that we are doing a lot of things out of the ordinary because we don’t have other normal elements. And so I also think the audience can expect to just have to go with us and use their imagination a little bit… They can expect to laugh for sure. There’s so much, it’s a really funny story,” said Collins. Collins said the bond between the characters will be palpable throughout the performance, which she attributes to the longstanding relationships she’s built with her fellow castmates. “A few minutes of rehearsal is literally just us having fun together and bonding and fostering relationships with each other before we even jump into the world of the play,” said Collins. She continued: “And so it’s been truly wonderful to be in this room with all these people and to play, to laugh, because what it’s doing is, once we jump into the text, we come up with all these ideas “I am trying so very hard she interacts with the world because our brain is flowing. So it’s truly been magical to be to capture the curiosity of a around her. “It’s just a little bit hard to re- a part of this room. It’s a small child, like how children see something, process that infor- member to be stiff sometimes room, but it’s so impactful to mation in real time, and like, too. But it’s fun and it’s a great the process of the show beeither repeat it, or be naughty, challenge. I like the fact that I’m cause we’re building relation-

you know. That’s what I’m trying to do in my body, in the way that I say the lines, and Children’s Theatre Com- that’s what I’m trying to bring pany is presenting Pinocchio to the character,” said Collins. this fall, running through Oct. 18. The production features a young and diverse cast and offers a fresh take on Carlo Collodi’s beloved classic. Directed and adapted by Greg Banks, the play brings a new perspective to the timeless story of the wooden puppet who dreams of becoming a real boy. Actress Antonisia “Nisi” Collins said that preparing Collins, a Children’s Theatre Company (CTC) core member to play a wooden character since 2023, stars as Pinocchio. requires developing a strong Reed Sigmund, another CTC sense of muscle memory and core member, stars as Gep- physicality. Much of her perpetto/Honest John. Collins formance relies on using her said she’s excited to bring her body to communicate the own personal flair to the be- character, from her movements and posture to the way loved character.

“There’s a lot of spectacle, in the sense that we are doing a lot of things out of the ordinary.”

ships with each other before we even jump into the world.” While the play stays true to the original story of Pinocchio, Collins hopes this rendition of the classic will leave audiences with a heartfelt message. “There’s still the mischief and the naughtiness there, you know? The message I hope the audience takes away is that people can change and grow. You never start where you end up. You make mistakes, and that doesn’t mean you’re a bad person. You can learn and grow from the mistakes you make, and sometimes those mistakes are necessary to shape who you become. “I hope the audience takes Antonisia “Nisi” Collins, who stars as Pinocchio Photos courtesy of the Children’s Theatre Company away that sense of growth. Even though Pinocchio is a puppet, there are still very hu- www.childrenstheatre.org/ journalist and contributing writer whats-on/pinocchio/. for the Minnesota Spokesmanman qualities to him.” Recorder. She welcomes reader reAamira Redd is a freelance sponses at aamiraredd@gmail.com. For more information, visit

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NOLAN

Continued from page 1

white friends. Wells, who is Black, did not return with them. His friends have said Wells chose to remain on the island to socialize after the boats carrying the group departed. His cellphone returned to shore without him. Wells’ parents have questioned that account, saying it was out of character for their son to be separated from his phone. After his family reported him missing, searchers found the teenager’s body two days later.

subpoenas and considered testimony, sworn statements or recorded interviews from 43 witnesses. The evidence also included cellphone and GPS data, videos, forensic reports, and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office investigative file. Jurors found no credible evidence that Wells’ death resulted from criminal conduct or was racially motivated. Though Wells was the only Black person among the group of friends that day, Jackson County District Attorney Angel Myers McIlrath rejected speculation that Wells’ death was racially motivated, saying

there is no evidence to sup- continued socializing and appeared unhurt. Jurors said they port that claim. Nevertheless, questions could not determine whether that fall caused the bruising. about Wells’ injuries remain. Dr. Roger Mitchell Jr., the former chief medical examiner ‘The pursuit of truth’ Civil rights attorney Ben for Washington, D.C., performed a second autopsy at Crump, who represents the the family’s request. He found family, said the grand jury’s blunt-force injuries to the decision does not resolve back of Wells’ head and other how Wells died and that unareas of his body. Their signifi- answered questions are precisely why the investigation cance remains unclear. The grand jury acknowl- should continue. Crump and the family are edged the head injury but concluded it was not fatal. A again calling for a federal Juswitness said Wells had slipped tice Department investigation awkwardly from the side of a into his death and the release boat earlier that afternoon but of the complete investigative

file, including the state’s autopsy report. Because Mississippi has no statute of limitations for murder, any credible new evidence could matter years from now. The grand jury itself left that possibility open. If new evidence suggests Wells’ death was not accidental, the case can be presented again.

best long-term waste management strategy, including the facility’s long-term financial costs compared with alternatives. Beyond monitoring, coalition members are calling for Hennepin County to phase out the facility entirely. B.P. Lyles, coordinator of Delco Environmental Justice and director of the Toxic Prisons Campaign, pointed to Chester, Pennsylvania, where residents have lived near one of the nation’s largest waste incinerators for decades. He said environmental justice campaigns often face challenges beyond pollution itself, as residents juggling jobs, health concerns and financial pressures have little time to attend public meetings or advocate. “People are focused on surviving,” Lyles said. “Part of the work is helping residents understand that their voices matter because they are the ones living the experience.” Asked why the coalition is seeking closure by the end of 2027, both Ewall and Lyles said communities should move away from incineration as quickly as possible. “The sooner, the better,”

Lyles said. “It is dangerous for asthma when he was younger, plications than average annual and my grandson experienced emissions levels, he said. all people connected.” “When you have limited Hennepin County did not breathing problems, too. It respond with comment by made me start asking questions.” numbers of tests, you’re not She said many residents may going to capture the varideadline. The coalition’s concerns be unaware of what pollutants ability,” Gurian-Sherman said. are echoed by some residents the facility emits or how emis- “You’re not going to see spikes who live or previously lived sions are monitored. “I believe that can occur during startups, near the facility. Cassandra everybody should know what shutdowns or malfunctions.” Gurian-Sherman said reBelyeu, a Maple Grove resi- comes out of that incinerator,” dent and faith community or- Belyeu said. “Whether you searchers and regulators ganizer who formerly lived on live or work nearby or travel distinguish between chronic Minneapolis’ North Side, said through the area, people de- exposure, which occurs over months or years, and acute she decided to speak publicly serve that information.” exposure, which can occur because of health issues she over much shorter periods, believes affected multiple “The sooner, and that continuous monitorgenerations of her family. ing would provide a clearer Belyeu said her concerns the better. picture of both. He identified developed gradually while It is dangerous particulate matter, nitrogen living in north Minneapolis, for all people oxides and heavy metals inwhere she recalled noticing connected.” cluding mercury, lead and cadstrong odors for years without mium as pollutants that conknowing their source. After atcern him most from a public tending community meetings Dr. Doug Gurian-Sherman, health standpoint. The coaliand learning more about HERC, she began questioning wheth- a retired Environmental Pro- tion is also seeking additional er environmental conditions in tection Agency risk scientist monitoring of dioxins and futhe area contributed to respi- who advises the coalition, said rans, toxic compounds associratory issues in her family. She annual testing provides only a ated with waste combustion. The debate over HERC extends said she was later diagnosed limited snapshot of facility opwith asthma, and that both her erations and may not capture beyond monitoring technology, son and grandson experienced temporary pollution spikes coalition members said. Gurianrespiratory symptoms at differ- during equipment startups, Sherman argued that decisions shutdowns or malfunctions. about the facility raise broader ent points in their lives. “I didn’t grow up with asthma,” Those events, though brief, questions about environmental Belyeu said. “My son didn’t have can carry different health im- justice and how communities are

involved in public decision-making, noting that industrial facilities and pollution sources are disproportionately located near lowerincome neighborhoods and communities of color. “This is part of a bigger issue about how we manage waste and how we value communities that have historically borne a disproportionate share of environmental burdens,” he said. Belyeu said she hopes county leaders consider the experiences of residents who live near industrial facilities when deciding HERC’s future. “I think people need to be heard,” she said. “The people who live with it every day should have a voice in what happens next.” Hennepin County officials are expected to continue budget discussions in the coming months. The Zero Burn Coalition said it plans to continue advocating for expanded emissions monitoring and the facility’s closure by the end of 2027.

“was a reminder that our son’s life does not matter to those who hold positions that are supposed to serve and protect the public,” Wonsley said through tears. “Nolan is loved. He is cherished. He is honored. And he did not deserve to have his life taken away so suddenly.” Wells, an incoming college freshman and former high school football player, traveled Dozens of subpoenas and to Horn Island off the Missis- witnesses sippi Gulf Coast on July 4 with The grand jury issued 132

HERC

Continued from page 1

“Stack tests are required under ideal operating conditions,” Ewall said. “They miss startups, shutdowns and malfunctions, which can be some of the highest-emitting periods.” Ewall said HERC, like many municipal waste incinerators, continuously monitors only a handful of pollutants, including nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides and carbon monoxide. The coalition wants that list expanded to include heavy metals, particulate matter and other compounds associated with waste combustion, arguing that continuous monitoring or sampling would offer a fuller picture than annual stack tests conducted under scheduled conditions. “There is no data, except for that once-a-year test, on many of the toxic chemicals being released,” Ewall said. The coalition is calling for continuous monitoring or sampling of more than 20 pollutants and wants county leaders to evaluate whether continued investment in HERC remains the

Editor’s note: This article first appeared in Word In Black. It has been edited for length, clarity and AP style, and a claim regarding a reward campaign that could not be independently verified has been removed.

Alaysia Lane is a contributing writer for the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder. She welcomes reader responses at aal7008@nyu.edu.

"Equity cannot just be growth and staff retention. District officials said enrollsomething we say guided the Continued from page 1 process," she said. "Families ment growth alone can't solve should be able to see it in the the problem. Thompson acAn equity question When a parent at the brief- data and in the final outcome." knowledged small gains in recent years but said the district sizes. Roughly two-thirds of ing asked whether a racial is assuming about 5% attriMPS schools fall short today impact study had been done, tion among affected families, and need supplemental sup- Thompson said the district's “We should be roughly 200 students. Asked port. The options would cut equity analysis found "inconasking: How whether new positions could sistent experiences for stuthat to about one-third. many Northside be cut in future shortfalls, Senior Executive Officer dents across our system" and students are Strack offered no guarantee, Ryan Strack said this year's that every option increases saying enrollment growth being displaced?” $39.7 million budget gap was opportunity in every pathway. "does not fully address the closed in June and that projec- He did not describe specific imbalance between expenses tions show spending roughly effects on BIPOC students. and revenues" without more In a written response to unchanged under all three state funding. A pending $250 options, with added positions the MSR, MPS said its Sept. Union calls for a pause The Minneapolis Federa- million automatic statewide such as interventionists and 15 presentation breaks down counselors. Asked about an each option's impact by race, tion of Educators Local 59 cut to special education fundearlier projection that right- income, English learner and rejected all three options the ing adds to that uncertainty. sizing buildings could save special education status. It did night they were presented, about $45 million, Strack said not provide a count of affect- calling them "three different 'How we do it matters' District officials said 86% that was a cost-only exercise ed buildings serving majority worst-case scenarios" and and that transformation "nev- Black, Native American or im- urging the board to pause to 88% of families would see until meaningful engagement no change to their school or er was a cost-saving measure." migrant students. El-Amin wants more be- can occur. The union argued boundary. On the North Side, Deputy Superintendent Ty Thompson said schools fore a vote: an analysis show- closures have "a proven his- Franklin would feed North were not selected based on ing which students are asked tory of harm to historically High under each option, Anacademic performance. The to move, how travel times disenfranchised communities," watin students would be reasdistrict started with build- change and the cumulative save little money and make it signed and elementary boundings too small to hold enough impact on communities that harder to attract students and aries would shift. The district students, then used demo- lived through the 2007 and educators. It called instead points to new STEAM magnet for a plan built on enrollment programming at North and regraphic projections to weigh 2010 closures.

establishing Franklin as a com- ed, and families told her they wanted that to change. munity middle school. El-Amin credited the dis"My initial position is that transformation may be nec- trict for providing interpretaessary, but how we do it mat- tion and childcare but said ters," El-Amin said. "North outreach must reach famiMinneapolis families need lies not on district email lists to see clearly what their chil- through phone calls, faith dren gain, how transitions will communities and, if needed, be supported, and how their home visits. "I would like us to aim for feedback can meaningfully 98% parent and caregiver reshape the final decision." Thompson said every el- sponse," she said. ementary school would have at least three specialists, in- How to weigh in Families can submit feedcluding arts and physical education, and that students at back through Oct. 16 at www. merging specialty sites would mpschools.org/transformahave access to all graduation tion. Community meetings with Hmong, Somali and requirements every year. "The message I am hearing Spanish interpretation and is not simply 'don't change childcare run through Oct. 9, anything,'" El-Amin said. "It is: including North High on Oct. if we are asking families to go 7. El-Amin encouraged famithrough another major change, lies to contact their district show us how our children will board members and all three be better served because of it." at-large members. "Do not assume your voice will not matter," she said. A question of trust Sayles-Adams said that beJasmine McBride welcomes fore her arrival, feedback on major decisions was shared reader responses at jmcbride@ the same day the board vot- spokesman-recorder.com.

ALLINA

that normal operations continued despite the walkout. “Doctors Council SEIU represents about 10% of the physicians credentialed to provide care at Mercy Hospital’s two campuses, and not all SEIUrepresented physicians will be on strike,” Allina wrote. “SEIU Healthcare hospice nurses bargaining unit includes approximately 60 nurses who provide care in homes, skilled nursing facilities and assisted living facilities across the greater Twin Cities metro area. The strike does not involve nurses at Allina Health hospitals, primary care clinics, urgent care clinics or specialty clinics.” The Minnesota Attorney

MPS

how many schools each area needs.

visit, that doesn’t count.” Proposed pay raises have Continued from page 1 been contentious. Fourteen months before the strike, Allina attempted a market increase and Smerz. But the job’s de- but excluded licensed practical mands now extend beyond nurses, Smerz recalled. managing medical symptoms. “The LPNs will come up on Chryst said the company’s three years now that they’ve productivity standards are had any wage increase at all,” nearly impossible to meet as Smerz said. When the compahome visits are spread across ny refused to extend the raise the Twin Cities metro area. to LPNs, the nurses voted “To get a productivity point 75% against accepting their for the hours that we’re in the own increase in solidarity. car, we have to drive 85 or “We ended up voting against 88 miles before we are given taking that market increase in a productivity point for our solidarity with our two LPNs travel time with our mileage,” at a 75% rate,” Smerz said. Chryst said. “It can’t be that, Smerz, who worked at Allina say I drove 40 miles to my first for 11 years, said Allina’s pro-

posed disciplinary system isn’t practical for patients relying on hospice nurses on the road. “I can’t count how many times we walk into a visit thinking we’ll be there for 45 minutes, and three or four hours later we’re still there because we’re managing acute delirium,” Smerz said. “They’re trying to implement a policy that we get disciplinary consequences if we don’t meet our productivity. Which, I kid you not, is so demoralizing, because we don’t care for patients based on how many we see.” Dr. Saul Singh is a bargaining team member for the SEIU Doctors Council, representing workers at Allina Health’s

Mercy Hospital in Coon Rapids and its Unity campus in Fridley. Those doctors unionized in 2023, but negotiations stalled until the tentative agreement was reached last week. During the standoff, Singh said, staffing pressure sometimes meant working through illness. “I had influenza and almost passed out, and my wife goes to me, ‘You’re going to work?’ I said, ‘Yep, I’m putting on a mask.’ And the reason is we’re staffed tightly. There’s not much wiggle room,” Singh said. Allina said the company was “disappointed that two SEIU-represented groups have chosen to strike,” adding

General’s Office is currently reviewing a proposed $26 billion merger between Allina and California-based Sutter Health. Union members fear the merger will compound understaffing and burnout, and they are pressing executives to sign a legally binding Community Benefits Agreement as a condition of the deal moving forward. For more information on , visit https://www.seiuhealthcaremn.org/. Clint Combs is a freelance journalist and contributing writer to the Minnesota SpokesmanRecorder. He welcomes reader responses at combs0284@ gmail.com.

6 October 1 - 7, 2026

Parent Power, Column 4

Voices shaping Minnesota education

By Khulia F. Pringle Columnist

Education

spokesman-recorder.com

Now that the options are here, Black families need to be heard when families, especially Black families and families whose children have historically been underserved, need to make their voices heard. The district says more than 40,000 voices helped shape the MPS Student Experience that informed these proposals. That is a significant amount of engagement. But I keep coming back to the question I raised before: Whose voices will shape the final decision? That matters because the impact of Transformation will not be experienced equally across Minneapolis. Some children could change schools. Some attendance boundaries could change. Some programs could move. Some school communities could combine. Families may have questions about transportation, special education, multilingual services, school culture, academic programming, sibling relationships, safety, and whether the relationships their children have built will follow them into a new school.

In my last column about Minneapolis Public Schools’ Transformation process, I asked a question that has stayed with me: After families show up, how will they know their voices matter? Now we are about to find out. On Sept. 15, Minneapolis Public Schools released three proposed Transformation options. These are no longer broad conversations about what Transformation might look like. Families can now see proposed school changes, attendance boundary changes, program moves, school combinations and new pathways These are not small details. that could begin as early as They are the daily realities the 2027-28 school year. families will live with long afAccording to MPS, the ter the School Board votes. three options could result in a That is why I am particularschool or attendance bound- ly concerned about whether ary change for up to 14% of Black families whose children students. will be directly affected are That means this conversa- represented in the feedback tion just became very real for the district ultimately receives. thousands of families. And We know the history. Black this is exactly the moment families have experienced

where families can enter their address and see how the proposed attendance boundaries could affect them. The district will also hold seven public meetings, all from 6 to 7:30 p.m.: Sept. 30, Camden High School Oct. 1, Washburn High School Oct. 2, Edison High School Oct. 6, South High School Oct. 7, North High School Oct. 8, Southwest High School Oct. 9, Roosevelt High School Spanish, Hmong and Somali interpreters and childcare will be available at the meetings. This is a short window. So my message to families is simit? Who is responding now? ple: Do not wait until a final Whose concerns will appear decision is made to learn what in the feedback presented to these proposals could mean the School Board? And equal- for your child. Look at the oply important, whose voices tions. Use the interactive map. Take the survey. Attend a lismight be missing? MPS is now asking families tening session if you can. Ask to review the three options questions. And put your conand provide feedback. The cerns on the record. If your child’s school is afdistrict’s online survey is open through Oct. 16. MPS has also fected, ask what happens to created an interactive map their program. If your child reschool closures, boundary changes, program changes, displacement and educational disparities before. So when we talk about Transformation, equity cannot simply mean analyzing the demographics of students after a proposal has been created. We also have to ask: Who had the opportunity to shape

“This is not about telling families which option to choose. It is about making sure they know they have a choice.”

parents who aren’t on district email lists. It means talking to grandparents and caregivers. It means reaching families who don’t attend School Board meetings. It means helping people understand the options before asking them to give feedback about them. Because I continue to believe what I wrote before: Information is not the same as understanding. And if the voices collected during this next phase do not reflect the families who will bear the greatest impact, we should not pretend that participation alone equals representation. This is not about telling families which option to Barbara Olsen choose. It is about making ceives special education ser- sure they know they have a vices, ask how those services choice, a voice, and a limited will transition. If your child is a amount of time to use it. multilingual learner, ask what When the School Board happens to language supports. eventually receives the comAsk about transportation. Ask munity feedback, I want us about school climate. Ask to be able to answer a quesabout academics. Ask what tion bigger than how many happens to relationships with people completed a survey: educators and staff. And ask Did the families most affected how the district determined by Transformation help shape that the proposed change will what comes next? improve your child’s educaFor Black families in Minnetional experience. apolis, now is the time to make MPS says feedback collect- sure the answer includes us. ed through Oct. 16 will help To provide feedback or for inform a final plan and will be more information on MSP’s shared with the School Board, Transformation options, visit which has the authority to www.mpschools.org/aboutact. That makes the next few mps/school-transformation. weeks important. But I also want to challenge Khulia F. Pringle, M.A., is those of us who work in ad- founder and executive direcvocacy, education, neighbor- tor of S.T.A.N.D. Up Minnesota hoods, churches, nonprofits Parents United, commissioner and community organizations. on the Saint Paul Recovery Act We cannot simply post the sur- Commission on Reparations, vey link and call that engage- and co-chair of the Minnesota ment. We have to help families Literacy Coalition. You can understand what is being pro- reach her directly at khuliaprinposed. That means reaching gle@standupmpu.org.

The Star of Africa: Ghana’s road to March 6, 1957

by arresting six leading mem- hiking across the country and new nation in African history. bers of the United Gold Coast speaking directly to people. The celebrations drew people Convention, later known as His 1950 “Positive Action” from around the world, inFreedom did not end in the Big Six: Kwame Nkrumah, campaign of strikes, boycotts cluding the Rev. Dr. Martin Lu1957. It continues every time Ebenezer Ako-Adjei, Obetsebi and civil disobedience landed ther King Jr., who was present we pick up a book and choose Lamptey, William Ofori Atta, him in prison again. But when to see independence in action. Ghana led the way. In the to know our history for our- J.B. Danquah and Edward the CPP won the 1951 elecAkufo-Addo. Officials held tions decisively while Nk- next decade, more than 30 selves. Ghana gained indepen- them without trial and exiled rumah was still behind bars, it other African countries foldence on March 6, 1957, be- them to the Northern Territo- was clear where political legit- lowed and broke free from cocoming the first sub-Saharan ries. The arrest had the oppo- imacy had shifted. Nkrumah lonial rule. Nkrumah became African country to break free site effect. The Big Six became was released to lead the gov- Ghana’s first prime minister and, later, its first president. from colonial rule. It was a symbols, and more Ghanaians ernment he had just won. From his arrests to the politivictory that resounded in the joined the movement. At the cal battles he fought along the hearts of all Ghanaians, but same time, the government way, he never gave up on the it was not handed over easily, created the Watson Commismission of a free and self-govand it was not the work of one sion to investigate the riots, erning Ghana. The country beand its findings only added man alone. came the hope that a continent The real turning point pressure for faster constituunder colonial rule needed, the came almost 10 years before. tional reforms. Star of Africa, shining and letNkrumah, released from On Feb. 28, 1948, veterans ting its light reach others. who had fought for Britain detention, took a different That is the part of the story in World War II marched approach than his UGCC colthat matters today. Indepenpeacefully to Christiansborg leagues. Where they favored dence was not just a date Castle in Accra. They wanted a slow, elite-led push for selfcircled on a calendar. It was benefits the government had government, Nkrumah wantordinary veterans demanding promised but never delivered. ed independence immediately, It took six more years of what the government owed Colonial police opened fire. driven by ordinary people, Three men died: Sgt. Adjetey, workers, farmers and, notably, negotiation and self-rule. them. It was six men willing to Cpl. Attipoe and Pvt. Odartey women, at a time when their Then on March 6, 1957, the be arrested for what they beLamptey. The killings set off political involvement was un- Gold Coast officially became lieved, and a movement that riots across the colony, and heard of. In 1949, he broke Ghana. The name was not pulled in workers and market European-owned shops were from the UGCC and founded random. Leaders chose it to women alongside politicians. the Convention People’s Par- link back to the ancient em- Change rarely comes from looted. The governor responded ty, building support by hitch- pire of Ghana and root the the top down alone. It comes By Christabel Annor Contributing Writer

“In the next decade, more than 30 other African countries followed and broke free from colonial rule.”

Kwame Nkrumah The National Archives UK (public domain via Wikimedia Commons) from people refusing to stay quiet. We won political freedom in 1957. Now we protect it through literacy. Understanding how independence was gained, not just that it happened, is part of how we hold onto it. At Planting People Growing Justice Leadership

Institute, we believe reading and remembering go hand in hand with defending what earlier generations fought for. Christabel Annor is an intern at Planting People Growing Justice Leadership Institute (PPGJLI). For more information on PPGJLI, visit www.ppgjli.org/.

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Trump’s press ban feels FOR BILLING INQUIRIES familiar to Black journalists & TEARSHEETS

President Donald Trump’s Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder July 10, 2025 latest attack on the media: banning CNN, MS NOW and POLITICO from the White House marks a serious escalation in his ongoing attempt to silence a free and independent press. But for Black journalists, this feels like familiar territory. Akayla Gardner, a White House Correspondent for MS NOW and a member of the Washington Association of Black Journalists, quickly became the face of the ban after she explained on air that she was prevented from entering the White House. Secret Service agents turned her away at the gate and kept her press tion because of what it be- credentials. stows on the communities it Gardner didn’t intend on reaches, ensuring that those becoming the news that day; historically excluded from she was simply doing her job. emerging industries have the “What happened to me and tools to participate fully in the my colleagues at Politico and economic and cultural shifts CNN could have happened ahead. Economic self-deter- to any member of the White mination is just as much a pil- House press corps,” she wrote lar of equity as voting rights in an opinion column for MS and equal legal protections. NOW. Though Trump’s press ban isn’t directly targeting Black

If AI is the new language of power, then NAN wants Black communities fluent By Rev. Al Sharpton

hands of the community with a new initiative led by AI fluWe are at the forefront of ency strategist Susan Hearn. a fundamental shift in access The AI Fluency Initiative comand opportunity. When new bines the doctrines of racial technology emerges, margin- equity with technology and alized communities are often culture, elevating how access told to catch up to systems makes AI such a consequenwe did not design, and to ad- tial force in determining who just to landscapes that would gets to shape the next era of sooner leave us behind than American life. include us in their architecture. During these shifts, our “Access is not meaningful if it communities often become the least resourced, navigatarrives after everyone else has ing industries whose rate of already learned the rules.” change outpaces our rate of exposure. To combat this, we Access is not meaningful if Too often, our communities must build internal networks of education, skill-exchange are spoken for as populations it arrives after everyone else and entrepreneurship. This is that technology is happen- has already learned the rules. ing to, rather than working So we start with the fundaa civil rights issue. At the dawn of the artificial for. We hear about the jobs mentals. The AI Fluency Initiaintelligence era, the same sys- AI might eliminate, the algo- tive is designed as a repeated tems our communities have rithms that discriminate, and working session that meets always built for ourselves the industries being disrupted. people where they are, intromust rise again. We have had Those concerns are real, but ducing them to the technolto teach one another how to that cannot be where the con- ogy across various use cases navigate every new language versation ends. We are not and sending them home with of power, often because no- just workers to be displaced usable skills based on the body was coming to teach us. and demographics to be work produced during the reached after AI has already session. AI cannot be different. NAN has always fought to If Black and Brown commu- disrupted the landscape. We nities are going to compete at are purveyors and engineers ensure that no community is the highest levels of industry, of this technology and should locked out of the economy, practical AI training cannot be active participants in its from fair employment and be reserved for Silicon Valley use. Our initiative seeks to in- access to capital to equity in boardrooms, elite universities, terrupt that sequence, refus- education and homeowneror people who already have ing to let us become passive ship. This fight is no different. a seat at the table. It has to figures in a shift that should AI is quickly becoming part of how people apply for jobs, reach our residents, our clergy, be empowering us. For over three decades, build businesses and articuour organizers, our entrepreneurs, our young people and NAN has understood that late themselves. If these tools civil rights advocacy must be are becoming part of everyday our families. For this reason, National practiced wherever inequality life, access to understanding Action Network is putting shows up. Technology educa- them must become an eleAI education directly in the tion is part of that conversa- ment of everyday empowerment. Progress does not always distribute evenly. Communities have to demand access and request inclusion in the infrastructure of change. To be serious about the wealth gap means confronting the technologies reshaping work culture, and to close the academic achievement gap requires refusing to let a literacy discrepancy arise in the first place. Equity requires submissions@spokesman-recorder.com preparation, and we are in the unique position to harness these emerging tools so that it is our voices that are heard, our perspectives that are amplified, and our communities that are enfranchised. The AI Fluency Initiative is an access measure addressing an ecosubmissions@spokesman-recorder.com nomic gap.

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submissions@spokesman-recorder.com.

This article first appeared in Black Press USA and has been edited for length. For the original, visit https://blackpressusa. com/op-ed-if-ai-is-the-newlanguage-of-power-then-nanwants-black-communities-fluent/.

In Re: Estate of

OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Deanne Marie Hild, FILE NO. 27-PA-PR-25-934 also known as, Deanne Marie Bratton and Deanne Marie Elmquist, Deceased PLEASE journalists, there’s no better receive congressional press CONTACT

credentials, they weren’t exgroup thatACCOU understands N T Iwhat NG TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ANDDEPT CREDITORS: plicitly told that no Black reit means @ toBILLI be barred and NG@SPOKESNotice is given that an application for informal appointment of personal represenwhat it takes to fight to inform porters were allowed to cover tative has beenM filed with the Registrar.DER No will.COM has been presented for probate. The A N-R ECOR our communities regardless of Congress. At the time, press application has been granted. the barriers placed in our way. credentials were only given Notice is hereby given that informal appointment of Michael Ryan Hild, whose to daily newspapers, andadmost DISPLAY dress is 4034EMPLOYMENT 40th Ave S., Minneapolis, MN 55406 newspapers as personal representative Black were ofpub“Black journalists SIZE 2 COLdecedent, X 2 INCH the estate of the above-named has been made. Any heir, devisee or other lished weekly. interested person may be entitled PCI to appointment as personal representative or may RATE: $44.60 have always Despite barriers, object to the appointment of the personal representative and the these personal represenTOTAL: $178.40 McAlpin and Dunnigan tative is empowered to fully administer the estate including, after 30 days from the rebeen prepared date of issuance of letters, the power to sell, encumber, or distribute real mainedlease committed toestate, asking unless thereto are filed with the Court (pursuant to Section 524.3-607) and toobjections report the tough questions, and providthe Court otherwise orders. ing their readers with accurate truth,Please whether proof, respond with email confirmation to ad information. They Notice is further given that ALL CREDITORS having claims against saidpersevered, estate are spokesman-recorder.com we are allowed and their stories hold Court lessons required to present the same to said personal representative or to the Probate Administrator within four months after the date of this notice or said claims will be that Black journalists today in theThe room or MSR handles billing digitally. barred. should carry with us today. not.” This means you will get e-tears and e-mailed invoice “[When]a the unless you specifically request hardstory copy.is about us, the attention turns away Dated: June 24, 2025 Lindy Scanlon Black journalists have a from the issues that affect evRegistrar long history of challenging eryday Americans, and right ProSe Sara Gonsalves attacks on democracy and now, there are so many,” GardDistrict Court Administrator press freedom in a way other ner said in her opinion column. Spokesman-Recorder 17, 2025 journalists Minnesota may not. Leg- “We July will10,keep covering them, endary Black journalists like whether from inside the White Harry McAlpin, the first Black House gates or outside them.” reporter to attend a White Black journalists have alHouse press briefing, and Al- ways been prepared to report ice Dunnigan, the first Black the truth, whether we are alwoman to receive White lowed in the room or not. And House credentials, were also we always will. simply trying to do their jobs as well. This piece appeared first in When McAlpin and Dun- The Root. For more information, nigan were told they couldn’t visit www.theroot.com.

Opening doors for young people isn’t enough. We have to walk through them together By Kanika Cousine What happens when a young person can dream, but their circumstances keep getting in the way? I know something about that question because I was once that young person. At 15, while in foster care, I had to get an internship to afford clothes and other necessities. I remember worrying about where I could work so I wouldn’t have to keep wearing hand-me-downs or repeating the same clothes. I should have been thinking about school clubs, my grades and my future. Instead, I was thinking about what I needed to get through the present. Today, I see young people facing similar pressures. There are opportunities available: internships, scholarships, workforce programs and pathways to college and careers. But opportunity alone isn’t always enough. The support has to follow them A young person may receive an internship and still worry about transportation, money, family responsibilities or keeping up with school. Those pressures don’t disappear because they walk through the door of an opportunity. They come with them. And sometimes, so does the emotional weight. A 2025 systematic review of 65 papers representing 39 U.S. studies found that financial strain was associated with poorer health and well-being

among children and adoles- about what happens after cents, including more depres- they walk through the door. Schools, internship prosive symptoms among adolesgrams, workforce organizacents. That doesn’t mean financial tions and community groups hardship automatically causes can work together to create a depression or anxiety. Young stronger network of support. people experience difficult That could include mentors, circumstances differently. But peer support groups, trusted we cannot ignore the effects adult check-ins, and partnerof constant financial stress ships with organizations that on a young person’s ability to provide mental health servicfocus, participate and plan for es and other resources. It doesn’t mean every prothe future. gram has to become a mental health provider. It means we “We have to should know who can help stop assuming when a young person needs more than an opportunity, because we cannot keep workthat giving a ing in silos and expect young young person people to navigate the gaps an opportunity between us. A school may know the student. An internship program means the may be familiar with the workwork is place. A community organization may know the resources. finished.” Imagine what could happen if those pieces worked together. Young people don’t need My perspective is not a clinical diagnosis. It is a lived one. us to lower our expectations. I have been on the receiv- They need us to build stronger ing end of these partnerships. support around the opportuWe have welcomed young nities we are already giving people into our worksites. Still, them. when a young person arrives, We have to stop assuming carrying challenges that affect that giving a young person an their ability to participate, the opportunity means the work support system does not al- is finished. Sometimes, openways accompany them. ing the door is only the beginThat is the gap we need to ning. address. The real question is whether we are willing to walk Opportunity should come through it with them. with support If we are going to connect The piece appeared first in young people to opportuni- the AFRO NEWS. For more inties, we also have to think formation, visit www.afro.com.

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8 October 1 - 7, 2026 spokesman-recorder.com

WNBA

Continued from page 10

done a brilliant job in what everybody was calling a rebuild. He has just unleashed all of that youth on the league, and I think it is those young and fresh legs that are going to serve them well and give them an opportunity to be in an upset state of mind, no matter what matchups they find themselves in when the postseason starts.” Washington faces Atlanta (No. 4). “I think Angel Reese should be Defensive Player of the Year,” said Brunson of the third-year forward, who is in her first season with the Dream. “With her ability to have steals instead of blocks, where the prototypical DPOY lives, is a big part of the reason why Atlanta will be so dangerous heading into the postseason.” Indiana (6th) vs. Las Vegas (3rd), and Golden State (2nd) vs. Dallas (7th) round out the 2026 playoff field. “Golden State has the best defense in the league pound for pound,” continued Brunson, “because VB (guard Veronica Burton) is the tip

Threads of that spear. She makes the night for the opposing point guard nightmarish. Oh my gosh, she’s just so good at not only leading the offense efficiently. How many games has she had this season with double-digit assists with no turnovers?” Vegas is led by A’ja Wilson and guard Jackie Young, who Brunson pointed out “is on an unbelievable roll.”

WNBA Peak Performance winners WNBA Brunson also likes Wilson’s Finally … In her weekly WNBA30 MVP chances. If Wilson wins column for The Guardian, “O has put on a show. SeeReese (12.1 RPG), Wilson the honor, it will be her fifth. Jordan Robinson pointed out ing her in her first playoff se(26.2 PPG) and Phoenix’s Brunson predicted this several record-setting perforries will be popcorn-worthy,” Alyssa Thomas (8.5 APG) year’s playoffs will be can’tmances this season. stressed Robinson. were this season’s Peak Permiss: “At the end of the day, Indiana guard Kelsey Atlanta’s Angel Reese formers. defense wins, right? The shot clocks are going to wind down, Mitchell, who should be a set a new single-season reCharles Hallman welcomes the pace is going to slow down strong MVP candidate, set bounding record: “When her a new single-season scoring WNBA career is all said and reader responses at challman@ in the playoffs, and the teams record. Olivia Miles, who also done, she will be the greatest spokesman-recorder.com. that can rebound and defend are usually the ones that cut should receive MVP votes, rebounder to ever do it,” preset a rookie scoring record. dicted Robinson. Copyright © Charles Hallman down the (nets).”

lege career at Wisconsin, where she played every game of her time there, including two WNIT and two NCAA tournaments, and won the 2000 WNIT title. Reflecting on her place in Lynx and WNBA history, she said, “I will never deny the experience that I had playing with the pioneers that I got to play with, all the amazing players I got to play against. Just being able to play against those women, I think the league has really come full circle …”

SOE

Continued from page 10

who put in the blood, sweat and tears, who believed in the mission, who believed that this was possible.” Minneapolis native Tamara Moore remains the first and only Northsider to play for the Lynx. The North High School and Wisconsin great came to Minnesota in a onefor-one midseason trade that sent fan favorite Betty Lennox to Miami. She played for seven W teams, including Minnesota (2002), and later made history as the first Black woman to coach a men’s college basketball team (Mesabi Range College in Minnesota, 2020-24). Back in town after two years as a Dallas Mavericks scout, Moore has assembled two youth basketball teams that will begin competing

VIEW

Continued from page 10

shortstop in 2027. “It won’t be easy but I am more than capable of doing it. I can’t wait, I am excited for next year and what the future holds,” he told us. “This clubhouse is fantastic. From the first day that I got here, they welcomed me with open arms and made me feel at home. They helped me with everything and gave me advice. I love the family environment here. Everybody treats [me] with respect.”

The case for keeping award votes private There are some on social media who are demanding so-called transparency from WNBA media voters on individual awards. I have never been selected as a voter despite the fact that I have covered the W from day one. But if I were a voter, my votes would always be secret. “I don’t remember exactly when I was tapped to be a WNBA voter, and I regard it as a huge honor,” wrote Erica L. Ayala last week in her Black Rosie Media weekly newsletter. “It’s disheartening to see people vilifying media members (on their votes). I’d prefer you showed a modicum of respect, even in these crazy times in 2026.”

Tamara Moore (left) and Hopkins HS 9th grader Blake Harris Charles Hallman/MSR next spring. She told MSR after a tryout in August at St. Paul’s Higher Ground Academy, “AAU is not lacking in the state of Minnesota. We’re looking to do 10 or 11 tour-

naments in the spring (and) summer, starting in April. We’ll start practices in March.” Moore was a 2002 firstround pick of Miami (15th overall) after a four-year col-

First-year Manager Derek Shelton, speaking before Sunday’s game, pointed specifically to Josh Bell’s leadership. “At the major league level, I think it’s great and I think it’s really important the leadership that we have in that

“This clubhouse is fantastic. From the first day that I got here, they welcomed me with open arms and made me feel at home.”

Derek Shelton room,” he told me. “I’m proud of the diversity and how well they all communicate, interact and grow together.” “I want to thank each one of the fans who are reading everything that you are writing, and thank you for your hard work this year. It’s been a pleasure,” concluded Lewis. What about Black fans at Twins home games? We talked to several folks, including a team official, on the topic. Their comments will appear in next week’s View. Charles Hallman welcomes reader responses at challman@ spokesman-recorder.com.

Kaelen Culpepper (left) and Royce Lewis Photos by Charles Hallman/MSR

Copyright © Charles Hallman

erspoon’s praising comments, Miles told MSR, “In all honesty, I didn’t know much about her game, but willing to learn for sure.”

Finally … Veteran reporter Meghan McPeak joins the 2026-27 Minnesota Timberwolves broadcast team as sideline reporter and studio show host for road games. The Canadian native has extensive basketball expertise covering the NBA, WNBA, college basMeghan McPeak ketball and college football, Courtesy of X (Twitter) including almost eight years Weatherspoon sees her as a broadcaster with the game in Lynx rookie Miles Hall of Famer Teresa her, and then her confidence. Washington Wizards, Mystics Weatherspoon told reporters, I really like her confidence,” and Capital City Go-Go. She including MSR, during the said the five-time All-Star and currently does play-by-play 2026 WNBA All-Star Game two-time Defensive Player of for WNBA coverage on USA in Chicago that she sees a lot the Year, who will be forever Sports. of her own game in Minne- known for “The Shot” that Charles Hallman welcomes sota Lynx rookie guard Olivia she swished from half-court Miles. “She gets everybody to win Game 2 of the 1999 reader responses at challman@ involved and then she knows WNBA Finals against Hous- spokesman-recorder.com. when to inject herself. I re- ton. But when told of WeathCopyright © Charles Hallman ally have enjoyed watching

Employment & Legals

October 1 - 7, 2026

9

spokesman-recorder.com

STATE OF MINNESOTA COUNTY OF HENNEPIN

DISTRICT COURT FOURTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

Steven Thomopoulos, Plaintiff, vs.

Court File No. 27-CV-26-5288

Kaleena Omann, Commissioner of Public Safety, Defendants. NOTICE OF SERVICE BY PUBLICATION STATE OF MINNESOTA, TO THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANT, KALEENA OMANN: YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that the above-entitled matter is pending in Hennepin County District Court, Court File No. 27-CV-26-5288, and concerns the status of title to a motor vehicle following a judgment entered October 19, 2021, in Hennepin County District Court, Court File Nos. 27-CO-20-2439 and 27CV-21-1236, in which Plaintiff Steven Thomopoulos was awarded damages against you in the amount of $4,800.00, together with related relief regarding the vehicle’s title. YOU ARE FURTHER NOTIFIED that a hearing in this matter will be held before the Honorable Colette Routel, Judge of District Court, on Friday, October 9, 2026, at 11:30 a.m., at the Hennepin County Government Center, 300 South Sixth Street, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55487. Pursuant to the Court’s Order dated August 12, 2026, and Rule 4.04(a) of the Minnesota Rules of Civil Procedure, service of notice of this matter upon you is being made by publication because you could not be located for personal or mail service. Service shall be deemed complete twenty-one (21) days after the date of the first publication of this Notice.

2 Columns x 8” High SUMMONS

STATE OF MINNESOTA COUNTY OF HENNEPIN

PERSONAL INJURY DISTRICT COURT FOURTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

Cesilia Silbana Solis Miranda, Plaintiff, vs.

SUMMONS

vs.

SUMMONS

THIS SUMMONS IS DIRECTED TO DEFENDANTS: 1. YOU ARE BEING SUED. The Plaintiff has started a lawsuit against you. The Plaintiff s Complaint against you is attached to this Summons. Do not throw these papers away. They are official papers that affect your rights. You must respond to this lawsuit even though it may not yet be filed with the Court and there may be no court file number on this Summons.

2. YOU MUST REPLY WITHIN 21 DAYS TO PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS. You must give or mail to the person who signed this Summons a written response called an Answer within 21 days of the date on which you received this Summons. You must send a copy of your Answer to the person who signed this summons located at: Swor & Gatto, P.A. 1177 West Seventh Street Saint Paul, MN 55102

2. YOU MUST REPLY WITHIN 21 DAYS TO PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS. You must give or mail to the person who signed this Summons a written response called an Answer within 21 days of the date on which you received this Summons. You must send a copy of your Answer to the person who signed this summons located at: Swor & Gatto, P.A. 1177 West Seventh Street Saint Paul, MN 55102

3. YOU MUST RESPOND TO EACH CLAIM. The Answer is your written response to the Plaintiff s Complaint. In your Answer you must state whether you agree or disagree with each paragraph of the Complaint. If you believe the Plaintiff should not be given everything asked for in the Complaint, you must say so in your Answer.

Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder, September 24, October 1, 8, 2026

6. ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION. The parties may agree to or be ordered to participate in an alternative dispute resolution process under Rule 114 of the Minnesota General Rules of Practice. You must still send your written response to 2 Columns 3” High the Complaint even if you expect to use x alternative means of resolving this dispute.

Req. Master’s in Biological Science, Biology, Nursing, Biomedical Eng., or Biotechnology & 2 yrs. exp. as Clinical Researcher or related occupation in clinical research. Travel domestically up to 75% with/assigned territory incl. Chicago metro area, IL & Northwest IN to provide oversight of clinical trials & case support. Must work remotely from home office with/greater Chicago metro area. Must possess a valid driver’s license & be insurable (car). Salary: $128,500 to $170,400/yr. Apply or see more details about benefits offered at https://medtronic.wd1.myworkdayjobs. com/MedtronicCareers, Req. #R77878. No agencies or phone calls. Medtronic is an equal opportunity employer. All individuals are encouraged to apply.

Plaintiff,

THIS SUMMONS IS DIRECTED TO DEFENDANTS: 1. YOU ARE BEING SUED. The Plaintiff has started a lawsuit against you. The Plaintiff s Complaint against you is attached to this Summons. Do not throw these papers away. They are official papers that affect your rights. You must respond to this lawsuit even though it may not yet be filed with the Court and there may be no court file number on this Summons.

5. LEGAL ASSISTANCE. You may wish to get legal help from a lawyer. If you do not have a lawyer, the Court Administrator may have information about places where you can get legal assistance. Even if you cannot get legal help, you must still provide a written Answer to protect your rights or you may lose the case.

Medtronic, Inc., Minneapolis, MN.

PERSONAL INJURY DISTRICT COURT FOURTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

Anita Joy Rogers, Rock Rogers, and Suzanne Gage, Defendants.

Steven Thomopoulos Plaintiff, Pro Se 3152 County Road 2 South International Falls, MN 56649 218-240-4187

Sr. Field Clinical Research Specialist

COUNTY OF HENNEPIN

27-CV-26-13201 2 Columns x 12.12

Shukri Hussein Ali, and Rey David Escobar-Sanchez, Defendants.

/s/ Steven Thomopoulos

Dated: 9/15/2026

STATE OF MINNESOTA

Joshua V. Scardina,

4. YOU WILL LOSE YOUR CASE IF YOU DO NOT SEND A WRITTEN RESPONSE TO THE COMPLAINT TO THE PERSON WHO SIGNED THIS SUMMONS. If you do not Answer within 21 days, you will lose this case. You will not get to tell your side of the story, and the Court may decide against you and award the Plaintiff everything asked for in the Complaint. If you do not want to contest the claims stated in the Complaint, you do not need to respond. A default judgment can then be entered against you for the relief requested in the Complaint.

IF YOU FAIL TO APPEAR at the above hearing, the Court may proceed to hear and determine this matter and may grant the relief requested without further notice to you.

SUMMONS

27-CV-26-14232

I hereby acknowledge that sanctions may be awarded pursuant to Minn. Stat. §549.211. Dated: June 9, 2026

SWOR AND GATTO, P.A. By: /s/ Marcus P. Gatto Marcus P. Gatto (#0391160) John Paul J. Gatto (#0387730) ATTORNEYS FOR PLAINTIFF 1177 West Seventh Street Saint Paul, Minnesota 55102 651-454-3600 Marcusg@sworgatto.com jpg@sworgatto.com

Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder, September 17, 24, October 1, 2026

3. YOU MUST RESPOND TO EACH CLAIM. The Answer is your written response to the Plaintiff s Complaint. In your Answer you must state whether you agree or disagree with each paragraph of the Complaint. If you believe the Plaintiff should not be given everything asked for in the Complaint, you must say so in your Answer. 4. YOU WILL LOSE YOUR CASE IF YOU DO NOT SEND A WRITTEN RESPONSE TO THE COMPLAINT TO THE PERSON WHO SIGNED THIS SUMMONS. If you do not Answer within 21 days, you will lose this case. You will not get to tell your side of the story, and the Court may decide against you and award the Plaintiff everything asked for in the Complaint. If you do not want to contest the claims stated in the Complaint, you do not need to respond. A default judgment can then be entered against you for the relief requested in the Complaint. 5. LEGAL ASSISTANCE. You may wish to get legal help from a lawyer. If you do not have a lawyer, the Court Administrator may have information about places where you can get legal assistance. Even if you cannot get legal help, you must still provide a written Answer to protect your rights or you may lose the case. 6. ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION. The parties may agree to or be ordered to participate in an alternative dispute resolution process under Rule 114 of the Minnesota General Rules of Practice. You must still send your written response to the Complaint even if you expect to use alternative means of resolving this dispute. I hereby acknowledge that sanctions may be awarded pursuant to Minn. Stat. §549.211. Dated: July 15, 2026

SWOR AND GATTO, P.A. By: /s/John Paul J. Gatto John Paul J. Gatto (#0387730) ATTORNEYS FOR PLAINTIFF 1177 West Seventh Street Saint Paul, Minnesota 55102 651-454-3600 jpg@sworgatto.com

Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder, September 17, 24, October 1, 2026

Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder, October 1, 2026

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Sports

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Fab Five Photos Brunson sees a wide-open Stewart powers Liberty past Lynx in playoff opener

Sports Columnist

his week’s Fab Five photo spread features images from Game 1 of the WNBA Playoffs between the No. 1-seeded Minnesota Lynx and No. 8 New York Liberty. Breanna Stewart scored 34 points and grabbed 12 rebounds to lead the Liberty to a 91-75 victory at Target Center. Leonie Fiebich added 16 points and Sabrina Ionescu 13 for the winners. Nia Brodie (16), Kayla McBride (14), Napheesa Collier (12) and Olivia Miles (11) led a balanced attack for the Lynx. Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald welcomes reader responses at mcdeezy05@gmail.com. Photos by Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald

Minnesota Lynx forward Nia Brodie

race for the WNBA title

By Charles Hallman Sports Columnist he 2026 WNBA Playoffs are now underway. At press time, all four first-round contests are still in play, including Minnesota (1) vs. New York (8). “I think this will be the most hotly contested championship push we have seen in the league’s 30-year history,” declared veteran broadcaster Cindy Brunson last week. She told MSR, “There is not much separation between first- From left: Sheryl Swoopes, Nneka Ogwumike, Cindy Brunson. place Minnesota and eighthThreads place New York.” Rookie of the Year. She also down low and that she creates likes shooting guard Kayla space for Howard to score.” “I think this will McBride and forwards NaBut don’t count out Washbe the most hotly pheesa Collier and Natasha ington, the league’s youngest contested championHoward. squad, coached by Sydney ship push we have Miles has “legit star pow- Johnson, the only Black head seen in the league’s er,” Brunson said of the point coach in the playoff field this 30-year history.” guard. On McBride, she said, season. The fifth-seeded Mys“Nobody’s talking about how tics “are a really big wild card Brunson likes the Lynx's great of a two-way player she for me because they don’t playoff chances. She loves is. As a big guard, the fact that know and they don’t care,” said rookie guard Olivia Miles, she is willing to really get in Brunson. “They are just young who on Sept. 29 was named and use her body and create … Sydney Johnson I think has the unanimous 2026 WNBA the mismatches, posting up ■ See WNBA on page 8

Sports Columnist

Black pioneers hold a lasting place in Lynx history Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier

Minnesota Lynx guard Olivia Miles

ANOTHER

VIEW Charles Hallman

New York Liberty forward Breanna Stewart

New York Liberty guard Sabrina Ionescu

later promoted to manager (1999), senior manager (2002), director (2003) and senior director (2005). She now runs her own sports consulting firm and does college basketball telecasts as an analyst.

“We couldn’t be more proud of not just the players but the people who made this possible.” “I was talking to some of the original folks from the WNBA League Office,” said Taylor when we ran into each other at this past July’s WNBA AllStar Game in Chicago. “We couldn’t be more proud of not just the players but the people who made this possible, ■ See SOE on page 8

Twins’ Black players reflect on a ‘special’ clubhouse

Sports Columnist

First in a series n their final game notes for the 2026 season, the Minnesota Twins communications department listed nine “Notes That Will Make Your Brain Fall Out of Your Skull,” but they ignored the one fact that the Twins had a league-high five Black players plus a Black coach. A fact that seemingly only MSR and MLBbro.com cared to regularly talk about. Before and after Sunday’s 6-4 season finale win over Texas, we conducted our own “exit interviews” with the six aforementioned men of color: DH Josh Bell said he realized “how special this clubhouse is” a couple of months into the season. On the Twins having five Black players, “Yeah, it’s cool. It all starts with

lack women and men are prominently placed in Minnesota Lynx lore. Tonya Edwards was the team’s first-ever WNBA AllStar (1999) and later was named No. 16 on the franchise’s all-time top 20 players in 2018. Carolyn Jenkins is the firstever Black assistant coach in team history (2003-06), then interim head coach from July Angela Taylor 2006 through the remainder of Courtesy of X (Twitter) the 2006 season as the Lynx’s Angela Taylor remains the first Black head coach. She brought in Jim Lewis, form- Lynx’s first Black front office ing the first all-Black coaching executive, having served as staff in franchise history. He vice president for business also was the Lynx’s first Black development (2006 to 2008). Before joining Minnesota, male assistant coach. Jennifer Gillom was named Taylor worked in the WNBA the team’s first permanent League Office as player perBlack head coach when she sonnel coordinator (1997) was promoted from assistant under then-player personnel coach prior to the 2009 season. head Renee Brown and was

Josh Bell Photos by Charles Hallman/MSR (Byron) Buxton leading the way. He’s such a special player, a special person that makes it really easy. He’s a guy who you want to play with.” The 11-year veteran in his first season in Minnesota led the club with 96 RBI, the most by a Twin since 2021. He hit

his 21st homer on Sunday and finished among the AL’s top 10 switch hitters. When asked if he’d like to return next season, Bell said, “My family loves it here and my wife loves it here. The vibes in this clubhouse are special. We’ll see what happens in a month or two.” OF Byron Buxton had season-ending hip surgery in September. He has been with the club for good since June 2015 and is largely considered the Twins’ heart and soul. “To be able to be teammates with this many Black guys is something special,” Buxton told me during a pregame media scrum on Sunday. “Obviously you want to see more Blacks playing,” he stressed, adding that he hopes other major league clubs follow the Twins’ example. INF Royce Lewis: After returning from St. Paul, he started 74 games at first base in his last 90 games played since June 6. His 15 homers and 57 RBI

Twins,” said Lewis afterward. On the team’s diversity, “We definitely have diversity within the team whether it’s Latino, African American, or White. We have all the races covered, and it’s fun to see the Twins are diverse in that matter. We are here to play baseball no matter what color your skin,” reiterated Lewis, who has played nearly five years in the majors. P Taj Bradley: The starting right-hander led the Twins in 2026 in strikeouts (206), wins (12) and starts (31), and beByron Buxton came the first Twins pitcher to reach 200 strikeouts since are both career highs. Another 2023. He also threw the first overlooked fact: Lewis hit the immaculate inning in Minteam’s first homer of the sea- nesota history when three son in a 4-1 win at Baltimore, A’s batters all fanned on nine and the team’s last, a solo shot pitches in a game in August. in the eighth inning in his final “The more reps you get, the at-bat of 2026 on Sunday. “It’s time, experience, age, you be cool to be the Twin that gets able to harness all that stuff the first home run of the sea- and become a better pitcher,” son, and the last one for the said the 25-year-old hurler.

Taj Bradley “Once he’s locked in, he has a chance to compete for a Cy Young,” said first-year Twins Bullpen Coach LaTroy Hawkins on Bradley. “I think this year he grew a lot maturity-wise … I think he learned a lot this year.” Hawkins was the only Black member of the team’s coaching staff this season. SS Kaelen Culpepper hit safely in 23 of 33 games and started every game he played after his promotion from Triple-A St. Paul in early August. He is considered a fixture at ■ See VIEW on page 8