N RTH NEWS March 28, 2019 Serving the neighborhoods of North Minneapolis www.mynorthnews.org

A seat at the table

Jen White reflects on her path from community waitress to senior policy aide for Mayor Jacob Frey. Page 21

INSIDE Polars take second in state 2A basketball tournament Page 4 Micro- entrepreneurs have major impact Page 6 Community development update Page 10 2 NORTH NEWS March 28, 2019 NEWS

stream Minnesota newsrooms are overwhelm- were: mitted to those things too; for example, I'm ac- ingly white and most professionals have never 1. Cover people of color and indigenous (POCI) tively working to work myself out of my job). We Letter from received racial bias and other relevant training. communities beyond stories about race. need to think intersectionally about the topics we And while many individual reporters believe they 2. Apply journalistic values and ethics by con- cover. We need to create all of our narratives as the Editor are capable of competently covering communi- sidering what "fair and accurate reporting" collaboratively as possible. We need to resist the ties that are not their own, few believe their in- means within different community contexts. urge to sacrifice depth in service of breaking sto- Welcome to the April edition of North News. dustry is doing so well as a whole. 3. Diversify access. ries. I'm inspired by the words of Mark Trahant, Our team has appreciated the warmer tempera- As a multicultural, multiethnic, multiracial com- 4. Build trust through relationships. editor of Indian Country Today, who said, during tures and brighter nights as we've been report- munity that has experienced generations of 5. Turn critics into sources. a panel at the conference, "We're a small orga- ing, teaching, and being out and about in the structural marginalization, North Minneapolis 6. Embrace a role in opening up conversations nization; we're always looking for ways to defy community — and beyond — this month. has felt the consequences of white supremacy about identity. gravity." North News will continue doing our best On March 19 and 20, our staff was at Hamline in media. Phrases like "gang-related" and words 7. Get past preconceived notions. to defy what we've been taught to believe about University, putting on the Truth and Transforma- like "minority" are used to tell coded stories about 8. Be informed. the gravity of journalism. tion: Changing Racial Narratives in Media con- who deserves to live and prosper in our cities. 9. Practice (and publish) self-reflective assess- Huge thanks to conference attendees, partic- ference. We did so in partnership with six other In order to deeply understand and document ments. ularly the people of color, queer folks, and other media and community organizations: KMOJ, these experiences for conference learning, our 10. Be intentional about hiring. marginalized community members who educat- KRSM, Hamline, Minnesota Public Radio, The cross-sector team hosted over 15 listening ses- 11. Allow journalists to proudly identify their ed and emotionally labored for those two days in Minnesota Humanities Center, and ThreeSixty sions with mainstream and community media race and ethnicity. service of beginning to create a media industry Journalism. professionals and populations served (often 12. Follow through and follow up on reporting. that better serves all of us. harmfully) by them across the state prior to the As I've helped pull together this edition of our As part of the preparatory efforts for the con- Until next time, ference, a Wilder Research study was commis- conference. paper in the immediate aftermath of the confer- Kenzie O'Keefe sioned that (unsurprisingly) showed that Min- What we heard was again,unsurprising, but ence, I'm feeling an even greater urgency to do Editor/Publisher, North News nesota media professionals "overwhelmingly also extremely helpful in beginning to discuss this work, and do it NOW. Changing the narrative [email protected] believe racial bias in their ranks leads to inaccu- ways of tracking towards change. A few of the will require more than just changing the words 651-245-2647 rate news stories and understanding that bias is recommendations we heard from community we use or hiring a few people from groups un- necessary to be effective in their jobs." Yet, main- members and addressed during the conference derrepresented in the industry (but we are com-

NORTH NEWS 2019 Issue #3 Circulation: 10,000 in North Minneapolis. INSIDE OUR "O" Delivered free on a monthly basis to public places & homes in Near North & Camden.

125 West Broadway Ave. Suite 130, Minneapolis, MN 55411 Phone: 651-245-2647 Website: www.mynorthnews.org

Kenzie O’Keefe Editor/Publisher/Advertising

Cirien Saadeh Staff Reporter

Daija Triplett David Pierini Intern Freelance Photographer

Emily Ronning Anya Johanna DeNiro Graphic Designer Copy Editor • Habitat Home Open House North News is produced in part by our journalism Saturday, June 1, 2019 class at North High School, taught in partnership with 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. • Resident Block Projects Sam Wilbur. Additional support is provided by The • Free Food & Entertainment Jay & Rose Phillips Family Foundation of Minnesota. Russell Avenue N, Minneapolis • Health & Housing Resources BETWEEN th &  th AVENUES Story ideas and letters to the editor under 300 words are always welcome. Unsigned letters will not be run. Interested vendors may contact [email protected] or call 612-886-4539 If you want North News on your doorstep NOW, A married couple in Victory plan to buy a vacant subscribe for $30 per year. building on 44th and Thomas Ave. N and turn it Email [email protected] into a multipurpose chocolate studio. or call 651-245-2647 to sign up. Read the full story on Page 8 Next issue delivered: April 25, 2019 Learn more about volunteering at North News is an enterprise of tchabitat.org/nr NEWS NORTH NEWS 3 North Minneapolis at a glance

North Commons renovated New pool needs swim gear Families celebrated in Northside Achievement Zone ceremony North Commons Recreation Center is receiv- Students at Franklin Middle School need your ing a completely renovated gym with mod- new or gently used swim gear: one-piece ern technology and new teen room due to its swimsuits, trunks, googles, and swim caps. selection as the recipient of the 2019 NCAA Gear is needed for youth, ages 11-15, men’s Final Four Minneapolis Local Organizing small, boys’ 14-18, women’s size up to size 8, Committee Legacy Project. Tri-Construction, and girl’s sizes 16-18. These tax-deductible a minority-owned, North Minneapolis-based donations can be dropped off at the Franklin community construction and development Middle School main office. firm, donated its time and construction to help complete it. The project will be unveiled Northside doctor named family on April 2. medicine educator of the year University of Minnesota’s Broadway Fami- Beloved coach to receive award ly Medicine Clinic's Andrea Westby, MD, has during NCAA tournament been awarded the 2019 Family Medicine Ed- ucator of the year award by the The Minne- Larry McKenzie, the boys' basketball coach at sota Academy of Family Physicians (MAFP). North High School, is the recipient of the 2019 Westby is a family physician and assistant Guardians of the Game Pillar Award for Edu- professor at the University of Minnesota Med- cation from the National Association of Bas- ical School. Westby has also done work in the The Northside Achievement Zone held a ceremony for graduates of its Family Academy at Sanctuary ketball Coaches (NABC). He will receive the Church on Saturday, March 16. NAZ builds in a culture of achievement for North Minneapolis families and North Minneapolis community, being a advo- award on Sunday, April 7, at the AT&T NABC offers “cradle-to-college” support to develop kids into scholars and future leaders. Here, Liberty Perkins and cate for health equity. Westby was given her Guardians of the Game Awards Show, which other scholars perform an African dance for families and friends in attendance. Photo by David Pierini award on March 28. By Daija Triplett is held during the annual NABC Convention in conjunction with the NCAA Division I Men’s Final Four. The Guardians of the Game Pillar Visit your neighbors! Awards are presented annually for advocacy, …and a selection of education, leadership and service. McKenzie, 8 the first African-American coach to be induct- homes for sale at seven ed into the Minnesota Boys Basketball Hall of Fame, is the first coach to win four consecutive Northside places on the state titles in the 100-year history of Minne- sota boys’ basketball with his team at Patrick Henry High School. Most recently, he is the first coach to lead two schools to multiple state ti- tles. His North Polars won two straight state championships in 2016 and 2017. Saturday, April 27, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Northern Metals settlement services available to communtiy Sunday, April 28, 1 to 5 p.m. As part of the Northern Metals Settlement, the Minneapolis Health Department has an- Seven in Northeast also. Free Author Discussion with TOP CHEF Finalist nounced that residents of Bottineau, Sheri- Four dozen homes dan, McKinley, or Hawthorne are eligible for a number of services, if they meet the appro- throughout the Twin Cities The Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival priate requirements. More details on services offering ideas for presents and requirements, related to lead paint can be 14 Films @ the Capri Kwame remodeling, preservation, directed to Lisa Smestad at 612-673-3733 or April 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, 14, 18, 19 [email protected], and Eliza and lifestyles, details at Full Capri Schedule: thecapritheater.org Onwuachi Schell, related to asthma, at 612-685-8512 or www.MSPHomeTour.com Full MSPIFF Schedule: mspfilm.org [email protected]. Services in- 6:30PM Monday, April 15 clude in-home visits related to lead poisoning Nominations always Hennepin County Library – North Regional prevention, lead testing, asthma education for 1315 Lowry Ave N, Minneapolis welcome for future years! 2027 West Broadway, Minneapolis 55411 parents, and an in-home asthma consultation. www.clubbook.org 4 NORTH NEWS March 28, 2019 NEWS

Polars take second in the state 2A basketball tournament

By Kenzie O'Keefe Editor The Polars played hard at the Target Center, but in the end, they came up short, The North High Polars boys' basketball losing 52-69. Minnehaha's Chet Holmgren, team won state championship 1A titles in who is nearly seven feet tall, proved for- 2016 and 2017. On Saturday, March 23, midable under the basket, stopping shot they had a shot at a third, this time in divi- after shot as Polar players like Senior Nasir sion 2A. They played against Minnehaha El-Amin drove to the baseline. Academy, a dynastic team that took home After the game, Coach Larry McKenzie 2A titles in 2017 and 2018. took to Facebook to praise his team: "They fought and never gave up, in the end our Seniors played in three state cham- pionship games and won two. Our young guys now know what it takes. Disappointed but the sun will shine again. Very proud of my Minneapolis North Polars." The Polars will graduate four seniors this year: Omar Brown, Eli Campbell, The Polars defeated Esko High School in this year's 2A quarterfinals. Leading scorer Willie Wilson, a freshman Nasir El-Amin, and Josh Hodges. Photo by Sam Wilbur starting guard, ended the game with the a dunk. Photo by Eddie Beamon

YOUR REALTOR®

C

M OUR MORTGAGE

Y

CM

MY

CY CMY YOUR NEW K

Expand your homebuying options and begin your journey home today at buywithhabitat.org

Habitat mortgages are originated by TCHFH Lending, Inc., a non-profit subsidiary of Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity. Equal Opportunity housing agency, employer, and lender. TCHFH Lending Inc. NMLS #1482482. Twin Cities Habitat NMLS #400065 NEWS NORTH NEWS 5

catch up with our Minneapolis City Council members Phillipe Cunningham (Ward 4) and Council Members Jeremiah Ellison (Ward 5) were inaugurated in January 2018. We have invited them to keep in touch with the community through this monthly column in our newspaper.

WARD 4: WARD 5: Phillipe Jeremiah Cunningham Ellison

Happy April, neighbors! Day- I want to talk a little about the Rent- light Saving Time has arrived! Our er-First policy Council President Bender, days are getting longer, so we get and I co-authored and passed this past to enjoy the sun a little more af- full council meeting. It’s an internal, and ter this bitterly cold winter. Also, relatively technical effort that relates Earth Day is coming up! primarily to how the city will engage its peaceful demonstrations for envi- White-Nationalistic terrorism has been Environmental stewardship is code enforcement for rental properties. ronmental reform. There was an- a growing concern worldwide, and at very important to me, and as I It might not be the sexiest work, but it’s other successful Earth Day event one point or another, has felt extremely have learned from serving our a big deal, especially when placed in the in 1990, and another in 2000, at close to home for many in our communi- community, it’s also very import- broader context of all the renter protec- which point efforts were directed ty. Whether at the Emanuel AME Church ant to many of you, as well. Now tion work forming at the city right now. towards creating an annual event. in Charleston, the Tree of Life syna- more than ever, we must consider In short, the policy seeks to move us one Some key ways for us to cele- gogue in Pittsburgh, or this most recent how to preserve our planet to en- step closer to addressing that seeming- brate Earth Day year-round are shooting, no faith community seems to sure that its best parts remain for ly impossible question: how do you hold small adjustments to our daily be spared from this practice of hate and the generations to come. I want- slumlords accountable without displac- lives. It does not have to be some- madness. ed to take some time this month ing, thus punishing, their often-vulner- thing big, such as installing solar I’m a practicing Muslim myself, and to share a bit about the origins of able tenants? Because when a landlord panels on the roof or buying a zero the loss of life has been difficult to cope Earth Day and share some actions gets their license revoked (and, by that emissions vehicle. Things like con- with. As a big believer in liberty above you can take ahead of Earth Day point, they often deserve it) the renter is sciously conserving resources (like fear, it’s been difficult to accept that – or every day – to be great stew- the one left scrambling to prevent them- turning off running water while many of our faith institutions are being ards of our environment. selves from becoming homeless. doing dishes), and educating our forced to question whether their “open- Earth Day’s creation was led by The answer was quietly happening communities on ways to reduce door policy” could lead to loss of life. Can a Wisconsin senator, Gaylord Nel- within our Regulatory Services depart- our carbon footprint by recycling, we afford to be welcoming if it leaves us son, and how he was moved to ment itself, where housing inspectors composting and picking up litter. In defenseless against mass shooters? My make change after a three-mil- and their leadership were recognizing my case, I made a lifestyle change idealistic self would like to think that we lion-gallon oil spill off the coast of the need to consider the consequences to a plant-based diet. These are should double down on our open-door Santa Barbara, California, in 1969. for tenants facing displacement, and the all things we can do to help the policies, because isolation is a part of This had a devastating effect on need to revive some underutilized tools world we live in last for our future the terrorist’s goal. But I have to admit, I marine life, spurring the creation at the City’s disposal. One such tool is generations. don’t have simple answers. of the National Environmental the Tenant Remedies Action (or TRA), a This month, I challenge you to find I do know that it’s more important than Policy Act in 1970. In December tool that could empower tenants to get some small ways to help save the ever to galvanize around the concepts of 1970, the federal government repairs their landlord may be neglecting, planet. If you have got some time of community and justice. I believe that would establish the Environmen- preventing properties from falling into to learn about how to take action, our collective efforts to right current and tal Protection Agency, or EPA, complete disrepair in the first place. In please take a look at https://www. historic wrongs, to build coalitions in un- which is tasked with ensuring en- some ways, the Renter-First policy is a earthday.org/. likely places, and to assert our value as vironmental protection by way of way to formalize and expand upon the a diverse community is a powerful and cleaner healthier environment for work that’s been quietly happening al- scary thing to the people committing all. I would be remiss in not also ready. acts of hatred. addressing that the EPA is one The policy is broader than code en- Thank you, and as always, I look for- federal agency that has faced forcement, and not very long, so please ward to seeing you out in the commu- significant funding cuts in recent take the time to read through it if you’re nity! Call my office at 612-673-2205 years, despite the ever-growing curious to learn more about its purview. or email me at ward5@minneapolismn. importance of their work. I usually try to keep these columns gov. The first Earth Day occurred mid- City Hall specific, but I have to take a 1970, with thousands of colleges, moment to express my deep anger and schools and communities driv- sadness regarding the New Zealand ing the efforts by participating in terrorist attacks that happened recently. 6 NORTH NEWS March 28, 2019 NOW

Mia Oi had a pop-up stand inside Corner Coffee in the Camden neighborhood during Saturdays in February and March, ending March 30. to make and serve Japanese-style crepes. Photo by David Pierini

Micro-entrepreneurs create major impact

By Cirien Saadeh Staff Reporter According to Chris Webley, CEO of New Rules, one money up.’” Additional reporting by Datelle Straub of the great challenges of becoming a micro-entre- Northside micro-entrepreneurs experience differ- preneur is not just about finding the resources one ent and often greater challenges than those that These days everybody seems to have a side hustle, a side gig, a freelance job, some needs to do the work, it is about getting started. are based and operate in other parts of the city. sort of something they do as a creative outlet and to make ends meet. Some are run- “One of the challenges we see, how do you get “Within North Minneapolis, there's such a lack ning their businesses on the go, not tied down to a specific location, but working to started with what you got? And how do you grow of trust with the government, with banking, with build a brand. Some work out of their own kitchens, some in their dorms and lockers; what you have right now? For example, one of our lawyers, all of those things that you need to start a other times they're popping up in the community at local coffee shops, farmers' mar- members who just got a grant for building a hous- business,” said Fix. kets, or others' brick and mortar businesses. These are micro-entrepreneurs. ing foundation for a thousand bucks. And, I was Additionally, because North Minneapolis has been Micro-entrepreneurs are small business owners that employ less than ten people pushing him to really think about it,” said Webley. historically underserved, the community has a (and in some cases, just the one), who work with small amounts of capital (financial “If you're running a business, then how are you in- greater challenge accessing the physical and finan- and physical resources) that typically work locally. vesting this thousand dollars to grow that to two cial resources they need to build their work. North Minneapolis is filled with successful micro-entrepreneurs. thousand, five thousand, or ten thousand. Helping “Northside has been underserved forever,” said “A lot of the businesses that I'm working with really see this as a way of kind of him put it into that context of, this is not a project, Fix, “But a lot of the young entrepreneurs right now changing the trajectory of their lives,” said Ann Fix, who works for the Northside Eco- this is a business; helping him build sound strategy are, they're just jumping in and trying it, right? So nomic Opportunity Network in their Food Business Incubator Program. that enables them to continue to sort of ‘flip their they need someone to help them understand how NOW NORTH NEWS 7

“We wanted to open up a storefront and we launched “We were broke, so we decided, we're young black men, I was thinking that we should put our two heads together. We could to open a bank account and how to apply for a food license.” a Kickstarter, but it failed. We come together, get some money some way, so we decided we According to Webley, a collaborative work space on Lowry tried working on getting a were going to sell snacks out of our locker. We took inspira- Ave., the future of micro-entrepreneurship is about collabo- tion from this dude that was doing it before. Titan's dad was ration. loan and that did not work out working at Walmart at the time, so we used his discount to get “A big part of our motto is unlocking the potential of micro- snacks,” said Lewis. entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurs in this space. From our either. We said fine, it's going For Lewis and Harness-Reed, their work as micro-entrepre- vantage point, micro-entrepreneurs are going to be the future. to take longer than we wanted, neurs gives them a chance to earn money and grow a business I think you'll start to see more businesses moving away from they would not otherwise have access to. At the same time, this sort of large corporate idea of needing a ton of folks and so we're continuing to do the micro-entrepreneurship gives them, for example, financial and things of that nature,” said Webley. pop-ups.” work freedom they would not otherwise have. "What we're saying to micro entrepreneurs is, you got your For example, at just 18 years old, Philli Johnson is an artist, Gerard Klass, owner of Soul Bowl MN business, I got my business, and we're all bringing all of our curator, and event coordinator who has been doing the work businesses together to collaborate,” he added. for over three years. For Webley, supporting micro-entrepreneurs means creat- “Well, I don't necessarily have a name for the business, but it’s going to take longer than we wanted, so we’re continuing ing collaborative spaces and partnerships that connect peo- what I'm doing now is essentially prototyping,” said Johnson. to do the pop-ups, saving money and building the brand and ple together. Right now, they’re working in partnership with As part of his work, Johnson curates spaces for young artists waiting for the right opportunity to unfold.” the formerly defunct Lowry Business Association, as well as to present and share their work, in community. His first project The West Broadway Coalition is in on the work too. Ac- First Avenue, on a block party. The event will bring together was at Gallery 15 in Downtown Minneapolis. cording to Executive Director John Bueche, WBC is currently several micro-entrepreneurs, as well as New Rules, and other “It is quite hard for a young artist who is serious and invested working to build up its pop-ups, bringing North Minneapolis businesses on the Lowry Ave business corridor in the planning. into their work to get the proper support and respect in their to Downtown Minneapolis skyways, and expanding the pop- “Not one business is at the center of this,” said Webley. field, so I put together this gallery exhibition downtown and up scene in the Northside. Fix echoes Webley’s comment. With NEON’s support, pop-up brought a group of Northside artists into the space and also “Beginning April 1 we will host two Shop Northside spaces restaurants are popping up all over North Minneapolis. Chef some of my peers in Chicago as well. That was the first project,” downtown in the Gaviidae Commons downtown Minneap- Gerard Klass, for example, hosts Soul Bowl MN at Breaking said Johnson. olis, in partnership with the Downtown Council and Cha- Bread on Sunday mornings. Additionally, starting in April, There are other benefits. Marissa Abara is a young multime- meleon Consortium, leveraging the excitement around the Breaking Bread will be hosting two pop-ups on Monday, one in dia design student at the University of St. Thomas, who is also final four, and building on the Northside Holiday Boutiques partnered with New Rules. we hosted in vacant skyway spaces in 2015 and 2016,” said “I love taking my ideas and then trying to make them a reality. “What I'm doing now is Bueche in an email to North News. I like working with other people, I find that super rewarding According to Bueche, WBC has been working since 2016 to and being able to combine ideas with others and make them essentially prototyping.” “activate" vacant spaces on West Broadway, using them for “our ideas.” I don't like really working alone so I find it really pop-ups, which serve the organization’s vision for communi- Philli Johnson, artist, curator, and event rewarding working in groups because I feel like my work is ty-driven economic development. coordinator always enhanced so much more,” said Abara. “It’s very fulfilling.” Patrick Henry High School juniors Avery Lewis and Titan Fix notes that while the benefits are real, the work is hard. Harness-Reed look at micro-entrepreneurship as an oppor- “When you're an entrepreneur, you're going to work harder tunity to make money while filling a need at their school, the morning offering breakfast burritors and a vegan pop-up than you ever have in your life. You're going to be challenged despite the school’s repeated warnings to not do so. They in the evening. And, further North, Ichigo Tokyo Style crepes, so much. You're going to be so stressed beyond any stress you sell snacks and sodas out of their lockers and backpacks to owned by Mia Oi, is selling crepes at Corner Coffee Camden, ever felt. But at the same time, it's yours. You own it, and you're fellow students. every Saturday from 9am-2pm, through the end of March. creating something that you can pass down to your kids some- “The pop-up means we could provide food for the community day. Even if it's a small part-time gig, at least it's something and build a brand, build clientele, work on advertising, work on that you are creating and has potential to build into something portion sizing, and do all the work we would need to do to sus- bigger. But it takes great discipline, and it takes working smart, tain a business,” said Klass. “We wanted to open up a storefront not necessarily hard. It takes really focusing on what it is that and we launched a Kickstarter, but it failed. We tried working you want to ... It isn't easy. I guess what I'm trying to say is it on getting a loan and that did not work out either. We said fine, isn't easy, but it's definitely worthwhile,” said Fix. 8 NORTH NEWS March 28, 2019 NEWS

Artisanal chocolate studio envisioned for Victory neighborhood

By Cirien Saadeh Staff Reporter to be true. We questioned whether we were ready to make this leap, but the The corner of 44th and Thomas just got stars seemed to be aligned, and we a little bit sweeter. Dancing Bear Choc- wanted to do it, so we did.” olate, an artisan chocolatier owned by The chocolate shop announcement Northside residents, has announced was met with excited fervor by commu- its intention to expand the business by nity members, who quickly shared the purchasing the building on that corner. Facebook post and congratulated the Their March 12 Facebook announce- business on their expansion. ment conveyed elation, and a bit of ner- “Awesome! How great to have a new vousness: “Not sure how to explain the business in our community! Welcome!!!” excitement we are feeling right now, a neighborhood resident Kris Brogan bit overwhelmed. We just signed a pur- commented on the Victory Neigh- chase agreement for the new home of borhood Association’s Facebook an- Dancing Bear Chocolate. Our North- nouncement. ern Chocolate Studio will be a unique The new chocolate studio’s name will blend of brick-mortar retail, a learning/ be Northern Chocolate Studio. It won’t gathering space, and the heart of our be a traditional retail location. Instead creativity. We have so many ideas and it will be a space for pop-ups, dinner can’t wait to share them with you!” it parties, cooking classes, community read. gatherings, and a kitchen to serve their The chocolatier is the brainchild of wholesale and online business. Joe Skifter and his husband Steven The space was built in 1929 and has Howard. Howard is a longtime pastry historically been home to a donut shop, chef, who previously opened chocolate corner store, dentist, and even a preg- shops in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He was also nancy clinic owned by a local church. one of D'Amico's original chefs and “That was my Dad’s dental practice from the late 60’s till the 90’s, Dr. Vern "We live just a few Steffens. So many memories of that building, it hasn’t changed a bit. Treat blocks away, and it well Dancing Bear, I hope it brings we both realized you as much success and fulfillment as it brought my Dad,” Greg Steffens com- that it's too good mented on the Facebook announce- ment. Dancing Bear Chocolate was started in Jan. 2018 by husbands Joe Skifter and Steven Howard. The Northsiders to be true." The building will need rehabilitation. Joe Skifter have sold their artisan chocolate online and through wholesale, as well as via pop-ups, but recently took the “Our first plan is to get in the space; we leap and signed a purchase agreement for a property on 44th and Thomas, that has a long and interesting want it to be a bright, inviting space. history in the neighborhood. Photos courtest of Dancing Bear Chocolate We think there used to be windows in the front and we want to bring those ment of their North Minneapolis home the Executive Pastry Chef at D'Amico scheduled yet. According to Skifter, back,” said Skifter. “And we see no ob- to lose weight. Cocina for nine years. Skifter’s back- they are not sure whether it will be one stacles unless there is something that “The life of a pastry chef. I came home ground is more administrative; his 9-5 big event once the space is done or happens completely out of the blue. one day and saw him dancing and we job is with Open Book, a nonprofit lit- several smaller events. Follow them on And then our first goal is to get the decided to name the company Dancing erary arts center. They started Danc- social media for more information. commercial kitchen space, so we can Bear,” said Skifter. ing Bear Chocolate in Jan. 2018, doing You can learn more about Dancing continue to supply our wholesale and Dancing Bear Chocolate sells a vari- pop-up shops and online sales through Bear Chocolate, and their chocolate, pop-up sale customers,” he said. ety of chocolate, include eight flavors of Etsy. When they started, they weren’t at www.etsy.com/shop/DancingBear- The name Dancing Bear Chocolate homemade chocolate truffles; peanut dreaming of a brick and mortar space. Chocolate or at www.facebook.com/ has its own interesting story. Howard butter cups; a “Kodiak” (rice krispy) bar; “We had one full year of operation dancingbearchocolate. wanted the name and logo to be a po- a fudge brownie with dried cherries in and really had no intention of buying lar bear with an incorporated Northern it called a Bear Paw; an extravagant a piece of property, when we saw that Star, as a nod to their Minnesota roots. chocolate mousse cake; and molded this building became available,” said As for the “dancing,” according to Skift- chocolate appropriate for each holiday. Skifter. “We live just a few blocks away, er, Howard used to dance in the base- A grand opening date has not been and we both realized that it’s too good NEWS NORTH NEWS 9

Educator spotlight Debra Johnson & Katherine Chisley The school area free, for each individual to work board report in. Our education reporter Chisley: They love it. Sometimes they brings you the latest say, “I just need to go to the chill news from MPS room. Will you take me to the chill room?” And we don't question it. By Cirien Saadeh Staff Reporter They know when they need to chill. They chill and come back. This is what’s up with the Minneapolis Public Where do you think your partner- Schools (MPS) this month. ship is strongest? Johnson: I believe Beginning in fall 2019, MPS K-5, K-8, and 6-8 in our commitment, to each other and schools will be able to hire a part-time “differen- to our classroom. We're rarely out, tiation specialist.” A differentiation specialist is a and that says a lot, even when we're licensed teacher who will, according to a social sick, we're still committed to come media post from MPS, “help meet the varying ac- in, because it is a hard job when one ademic needs of students.” This is a $2.6 million person is out. Cause the other one initiative on the part of the district. just has to pick up and keep going. The Minnesota State Legislature is current- Katherine Chisley (Right) and Debra Johnson (Left) were nominated for the Educator Spotlight I'm not saying that it doesn't happen, ly debating snow day relief. If a bill is passed, because of the compassion and innovation they bring to their work. Photo by Cirien Saadeh so we're committed to each other as and signed by the governor, MPS will not need By Cirien Saadeh Staff Reporter Sometimes a cheerleader. It just all well, as a classroom. to make up school days for weather-related clo- depends on how the day goes. Each sures. If a bill is not passed, snow days would be Every month North News publishes a What do you think are each other’s student and each day is different. made up on June 10 and June 11, as part the ap- new Educator Spotlight. This month greatest strengths? Johnson: Ms. proved 2018-2019 academic calendar. The bill we are spotlighting two local educa- What’s your teaching philosophy? Chisley has high expectations. She is would also provide relief for the district's hourly tors. Debra Johnson is a para-educa- Chisley: I feel that all students can firm, and she is consistent. But she's workers. tor in Anwatin Middle School’s spe- learn, but they all learn differently. also loving, and compassionate. So MPS has approved a three-year contract with cial education department, having And I feel that it's up to us as edu- with that mix, you just can't lose. taught at the school for 14 years and cators to find out how they learn. Superintendent Ed Graff. Aside from a raise, the Chisley: And with Ms. Johnson, she's been in the district for 21 years. Chis- And to treat each kid differently, but contract stipulates the superintendent’s benefits patient. Very caring. Very straight- ley is a special education educator, fairly. and parameter for annual evaluation. forward with me, she doesn't sugar- who joined Anwatin 8 years ago, but On May 2, MPS will host its 5th Annual Junior Johnson: As a duo, we work pret- coat it with me. If she's here, she's has been with the district for nearly Iron Chef Competition. The event will be held ty well together. We both have our here not only for the children, but 30 years. They were nominated by from 5:30pm-7:30pm at Solar Arts by Chowgirls strengths and we lean on each oth- also for me, working with me, and their co-worker, teacher John Knud- (711 NE 15th Ave). er. And we're both committed to the I love it. And she can tell when I'm son. “They are confronted daily with There are fifteen large capital projects under- students in this program. not doing my best, it's like, “You go, way during summer 2019, including a “dehumid- challenging situations and always, Tell us about the Chill Room. Chis- and you take a little break, and I'll do ification” project at Henry and construction at between the two of them, are able ley: The chill room is not for students it.” So we know each other like that, North High’s athletic field, slated to be complet- to come up with strategies and plans just when they're having a hard time. and I feel like she has great strength. ed in spring 2020. that not only improve the school for It's for them if they want to come in, She's very strong when it comes to The district also discussed its Quarter 2 Up- our students but help the students just talk to each other. They can helping me to realize that sometimes date during its March Committee of the Whole build the skills they will need for come in here, they can work if they you just have to let it go. Don't push meeting. That meeting included a discussion of their future,” said Knudson. As part want to. Sometimes kids do not get it. It will fall in place, it will happen. the district’s strategic priorities and the district’s of their work at Anwatin, Chisley enough sleep, and they just need ten North News launched this column to efforts to meet the superintendent's priorities, and Johnson built a Chill Room for minutes. So it's not just what they're highlight the work of Northside edu- which include social-emotional literacy and eq- students, a space for their students doing wrong. It's where they chill, re- cators doing innovative and socially uity. and other community members to fuell, reconnect. just work in our North Minneapolis The next MPS Board of Education meeting will escape to. The room is decked out classrooms. If you have any recom- be held on April 16, beginning at 5:30pm. The with comfortable couches, a rocking Johnson: And sometimes, we come mendations for our upcoming spot- next MPS meeting of the Committee of the Whole chair, calming music, and the smell in here and we'll do homework, be- lights, email North News at ciriens@ will be held April 30 at 6pm. Both of essential oils. cause we push into a large math pillsburyunited.org. Please provide will held at the MPS Davis Center What does a work day look like for class with over 30 students, and contact information for the person (1250 West Broadway Ave). you? Chisley: Sometimes we have to sometimes it can be overwhelming you recommend. be there just to support the kids in for them. So sometimes we'll come in like a motherly fashion. Sometimes here and we'll do more small group. we have to be that enforcer for them. We have computers or we have an 10 NORTH NEWS March 28, 2019 NOW Developments across the Northside VICTORY MEMORIAL PKWY 118 Major construction, renovation, and innovation 44TH AVE

are underway in North Minneapolis. Here is the 6FREMONT AVE latest news on some of this side of the city's PENN AVE

MISSISSIPPIRIVER

biggest developments. LYNDALE AVE 12 By Cirien Saadeh

Village Financial Cooperative 1 Location not-yet-decided

The Village Financial Cooperative leaders are now moving the charter LOWRY AVE (VFC) plans to open this year and through the National Credit Union Ad- I-94 plans to make a major announcement ministration (NCUA), which regulated 10 on June 16, during Juneteenth celebra- credit unions similar to FDIC regula-

tions in the community. “We are really tion of banks. While there have been W 26TH AVE excited about the accomplishments delays in moving the charters forward, B of Village in 2018. We've been really Connelly believes the credit union is R O working with our heads down,” said still on track to open this year. VFC is A D WAY AVE Me’Lea Connelly, Director of Develop- also in the process of nominating a 4 ment for VFC. In 2018, the Minnesota new Board of Directors; more informa- GOLDEN VALLEY RD 9 Department of Commerce approved tion can found on their website. the cooperative’s charter; credit union 3 13 River Loop Apartments 2 PLYMOUTH AVE 7 2 Plymouth and West River Rd Theodore Wirth Park The River Loop Apartments are set to open in Spring 2020 according to proj- ect developers with Opus Development Company. According to Nick Murnane, HIGHWAY 55 Director of Real Estate Development for Opus, more information will be com- ing soon. “We’re very excited to deliver another new multifamily development to West River Parkway in the vibrant North Loop neighborhood,” said Murnane. 5

NorthPoint Campus Expansion 3 Penn and Plymouth Capri Theater Expansion

The NorthPoint Health & Wellness Center says it will break ground on its campus 4 Broadway and James expansion late this Spring; the medical center had initially expected to host its Construction on The Capri Theater will begin in the Spring, with a groundbreaking groundbreaking in April. Sara Lueben, Community Engagement Coordinator for planned for mid-May. Developments include a renovation and 20,000-square-foot Northpoint, says a new date will be announced at a later time. Aside from the expansion. During that time, the theater will be closed, with programming occurring groundbreaking, Northpoint’s food shelf has moved into the former Wirth Coop elsewhere. A grand opening is planned for Summer 2020. space (1835 Penn Ave N) and its human services has moved onto the 5th floor of 1256 Penn Ave N, the Thor Companies building. NOW NORTH NEWS 11

The Leef Building Baldwin Square North Market Pesca Cafe & Upper Harbor Terminal 5 Currie and James 6 Fremont and 42nd 8 44th and Humboldt 10 House of Fresh 12 Dowling and 2nd The Leef Building is a By the end of 2019, architect North Market is now into its sec- Lowry and Newton In early March. 2019, the pro- 66,000-square-foot office build- Jamil Ford and his firm, Mobilize ond year of operation. The grocery In spring 2018, New Rules an- posed UHT concept plan was ing that is slated to open in June Design and Architecture (MDA), store, owned by Pillsbury United nounced Got the Juice, a smooth- approved by the City Council. 2019, a delay from the proposed plan to develop “Baldwin Square," Communities (PUC), which also ie and juice shop, to much com- As part of that approval, Coun- Jan. 2019 opening, in the Harrison bringing African-American cul- owns North News, opened in Dec. munity fanfare. According to cilmember Phillipe Cunningham neighborhood. The building will ture, arts and entertainment to 2017 after years of development Chris Webley, New Rules’ CEO, (Ward 4) stipulated that a com- feature office and retail space, the Northside. The project, which and construction. According to there is more to come, despite munity advisory committee had with Way to Grow, a Northside is estimated to cost a minimum of Vanan Murugesan, Director of De- delays moving through the city to be formed, with fifteen mem- nonprofit, already signed up to $3.5 million, and the city of Min- sign and Innovation for PUC, year licensure process. According to bers nominated from different move in. The project developer neapolis funding the project with one was about lessons learned. Webley, New Rules will be offi- Minneapolis neighborhoods. The is Wellington Management and, $1 million, will take six months to “Last year was a year of learning cially announcing Pesca Cafe & role of the committee is to study according to Executive Vice Pres- complete and will feature a stage in terms of pricing, management, House of Fresh in late May, with the concept plan for any possible ident and co-owner David Wel- and theater performance space, and products. This is the year of plans to do pop-ups in the days environmental or socio-economic lington, the development is 80% bookstore, office space and serve executing our learning: repricing, leading up to the announcement, roadblocks, while also develop- there. The development’s opening as the new location of MDA, new items, new services,” he said. as the restaurant staff test out ing three alternative plans. They was delayed, in part, due to two who will also own the facility. According to Murugesan, North cocktails and recipes. “Things will have sixty days to do this surprise wells found on the prop- Reporting by Jessica Enwesi Market staff are exploring a con- are still on track, they just never work. Additionally, according to erty. Wellington Management has cierge service for new mothers move at the timing that you want Northside legislators, dollars are several other developments in the and a deli revamp (that would them to go at,” said Webley. being proposed for UHT develop- immediate area: keep the much loved chicken pot ment in the Minnesota State Leg- pie), amongst other projects. islature, through a bonding bill. 1) Artspace’s Northside Lofts (construction slated to begin in Fall 2019). The RATC 2) The Townhomes @ Leef, fifteen 13 Plymouth and Fremont owner-occupied, income-restricted The Regional Apprenticeship townhomes to be built in partner- Training Center was acquired ship with the City of Lakes Commu- V3 Sports with the purpose of bringing in nity Land Trust (construction begin- 7 Plymouth and Lyndale more hands on career and tech- ning Spring 2020). Camden Town nical education into the working V3 Sports, an organization 3) A 90,000 square foot of- 1144th and Humboldt in an effort to create a community which has worked to bring tri- fice-building on city-owned land asset that supports student suc- athlon training to Northside 927 West Broadway Camden Town is the grassroots that requires major brownfield cess. According to Jamez Staples, youth, purchased the empty 9 rebrand of the Webber Camden redevelopment (construction be- Broadway and Emerson the founder of Renewable Energy publishing house on the South- neighborhood. “We’ve officially ginning in Jan. 2020) located near Partners, project organizers are west corner of Plymouth Ave Development on 927 West Broad- formed the Camden Town business Creekside and Van White Memorial currently working to finalize po- and Lyndale Ave in early 2018. way, a collaborative project of New association. We’d not had one for Boulevard. tential partners, who will decide They needed an additional $44 Rules, TRI-construction and Phillips years,” said Houston White, owner on programming and help lead 4) A mixed commercial and retail million to develop the space and Foundation, continues. According of HWMR. 44th, from Penn Ave. to the design of the space as it is development happening near 2nd build a training track and olym- to New Rules CEO Chris Webley, Lyndale Ave, has been designated build out. Additionally, over the Ave and Van White Memorial Blvd. pic size pool, amongst other uses the project has been fully financed, a “Great Street,” which will allow past year, they have received sev- for the space. V3 Sports could by drawing on Phillips Foundation Camden Town organizers and local eral sustainability grants. not be reached for comment, but assets. Project developers are cur- businesses to incorporate city dollars Fall 2018 news reports note that rently seeking design bids and are for arts, entertainment, and cultural development. Camden Town has also the organization had raised less applying for varying tax credits. received money for matching facade grants for local business and Camden than $7 million. A “for lease” sign According to Webley, the biggest Town organizers are currently in conversations with Councilmember Phillips is on the building, though wheth- hold-up is the state’s announce- Cunningham around technical assistance for economic development. er that is new or old is unknown. ment of the new market tax credit. 12 NORTH NEWS March 28, 2019 NEWS

100 Black Men Strong teaches power through politics Patrick Henry High School brought “100 Black Men Strong” to the Minnesota State Capitol on Friday, March 22, where they met with role models and learned how to claim power through politics. Students started the day in the capitol rotunda where they listened to speakers before breaking off into small groups to discuss topics ranging from political power to changing narratives about their community. By David Pierini

Patrick Henry students arrived at the steps of the capitol, some of whom chose to race to the top. Right: On a tour of the Minnesota House chambers, Michael Donald and Marcus Zachery take a long look at its ornate ceiling.

Legislative sessions has been a "lively debate" with still uncertain outcomes

By Cirien Saadeh Staff Reporter hundred million dollars less than the forecast in the Minnesota House by Rep. Lee and other This year’s legislative session is halfway there. originally released in Nov. 2018. Because of a Northside Rep. Raymond Dehn and in the Sen- What is a legislative session? And while there is an end in sight (it legally has slowing economy and the smaller surplus than ate by Senator Champion. The proposed legis- to end on May 20), nobody is quite sure what expected, legislators will likely need to agree lation is for First Avenue’s proposed Community The Minnesota Legislature operates one that ending will look like. on raising or cutting taxes (including gas taxes, Performing Arts Center (CPAC). Legislation in term every two years. This is called a “It’s going to be a lively debate from now un- which Governor Walz is pushing for), or even the House has moved through several commit- “biennium.” In the first year of the biennium, til the end of session,” said Senator Bobby Joe maintaining the status quo, as they make the tees, but is paused the Senate Committee on legislators meet for five months and discuss Champion, who represents North Minneapolis. decision on what to fund and what not to fund. Capital Investment. “The money has been in- the state’s two-year budget. In the second North Minneapolis Rep. Fue Lee echoes that: Despite these status updates, however, both troduced on the planning side,” said Champion. year of the biennium, legislators meet for “It was a good first half. Right now, we are Champion and Lee are quick to remind North- Marijuana: Rep. Dehn has introduced legis- three months and discuss the state’s infra- waiting to see what funding we can get for siders that legislation can live or die, as a sur- lation and co-authored other legislation aimed structure needs and spending. priorities that are not the Governor’s,” said Lee. prise. And, even if legislation never makes it out at decreasing marijuana penalties, modifying “And with a GOP Senate, but a DFL House and of committee, it can end up being voted on by medical cannabis requirements, and to allow Minnesota has the only split legislature in Governor, many things will likely go to confer- the House or Senate after going through con- individuals 21+ to consume marijuana. The the entire country. In every other state, either ence committee.” A conference committee is a ference committee medical legalization legislation has no Senate Republicans or Democrats control both space for legislators from both bodies to gather Here is a breakdown and status updates on companion, the medical marijuana modifica- houses of their state legislature. Minne- to negotiate legislation in order to ensure that some of this year’s legislation. tion legislation has not moved out of the Senate sotans have historically preferred a split movement happens in the legislature. Working Family Credit: One of Rep. Lee’s Committee on Health and Human Services Fi- legislature. North Minneapolis legislators have introduced priorities is the “working family credit”; he is a nance and Policy. The legislative session must end by May 20, legislation in the House and Senate. Legislation co-author on house legislation that would in- Tax Reform: Several Minnesota state legisla- can be introduced this year and continued to be crease the tax credit, though there is no Senate tors have introduced legislation to conform the 2019. Neither Senator Champion nor Rep. worked on in 2020, before the two-year ses- companion. Minnesota tax code with the federal tax code. Lee are expecting (or hoping for) a special sion ends. The State of Minnesota does have Upper Harbor Terminal: Additional funding Most legislation in the House and Senate is session. a $1 billion surplus, but that surplus is several for the Upper Harbor Terminal is being carried paused in their various committees. NEWS NORTH NEWS 13

meet us at the trailhead for free family fun! How mass incarceration has affected my family By Daija Triplett Intern Mass incarceration is a racial issue that's been going on for generations in the United States. The United States justice system has torn families apart, including some families Spring block party @ right here in Minneapolis. According to oxfordbibliographies.com, mass incarceration is comparatively and historically ex- treme rates of imprisonment among young, African American men. the trailhead Mass incarceration has affected my family tremendously. I spoke to my mother and my great grandmother both about the issue and their own personal experiences. My great grandmother Evelyn Cifax who has been a resident here in North Minneapolis for over thirty years spoke about her sons who were all incarcerated at one point in time.“It hurt me very much when they sen- tenced my son,” she said. • Music & Dancing “My children was raised in church. They know what it is to go to Sunday school and go to church • Nature Activities on a Sunday night. He hurt me to my heart when [my son] went to jail. He went to juvenile first at the age of 14. He came out; I thought he had learned his lesson, but he hadn't learned anything. • Crafts & Games He wasn’t home for no more than two years, and he went back again to the juvenile system.” • Food for Purchase When her two other sons were also imprisoned, she said she felt disappointed. “I had all three of my son out there in Stillwater doing time. ...You can imagine how I felt when they came home.” • Face Painting My mother who has lived in North Minneapolis all her life is married to a man who has been incarcerated since the 90s in Iowa. “Joe was originally in jail for a drug charge,” she said. saturday, april 27 | 10am to 4pm “He was later charged with murder and kidnapping. He was involved with some associates who later blamed him for the crime at hand. Although the courts waived the murder charge, they 1221 Theodore Wirth Parkway,Minneapolis MN 55422 later gave him a life sentence without the possibility of parole for kidnapping. Joe has spent his entire adulthood in prison. He’s done multiple appeals that have been turned down. Although there were four people who acted in this crime they were granted their freedom with parole while Joe is still currently incarcerated,” she told me. Joe was a month shy of his 18th birthday when he was charged. Since being incarcerated, he has volunteered in hospice and mentors younger inmates. “Joe is looked up to and respected by several staff members and is currently working to obtain his GED diploma,” she said. According to the American Civil Liberties Union, “sentences imposed on Black males in the federal system are nearly 20% longer than those imposed on white males convicted of similar crimes.” Black and Latino offenders sentenced in state and federal courts face significantly great- er odds of incarceration than similarly situated white offenders and receive longer sentences than their white counterparts in some jurisdictions. Mass incarceration is an issue that needs to be addressed. Black men continue to have longer and harsher sentences than white men. These racial disparities are continuing to rise and will continue if we don’t improve. It is important that we wash away these labels and uplift our black men and encourage them. We want to keep them out of the jails, juvenile centers, and prisons. It is an injustice to many people of color who sit and rot in our prisons. 14 NORTH NEWS March 28, 2019 NEWS

Nonprofit that sought to buy Emily's Cafe raises community concern

By Christine Stark Contributor A major concern raised by some communi- tified as trafficking victims. Pointing out the 2016 taxes indicate $949 of the $66,996, ty members has been Stories’ collaboration connections between LGBT youth and vul- or 1.4% of their revenue, went to two direct Stark is a writer, organizer, and speaker of with homophobic churches, like GracePoint nerability to trafficking on the North News service organizations. The rest went to pur- Native and white ancestry. Her first novel, Church. On an Oct. 11 North News Face- thread, Emily Spiteri said, “And I would say chase a food truck, accounting fees, other Nickels: A Tale of Dissociation, was a Lamb- book thread, Kale Duden said, “Their asso- it’s extremely tone deaf to ONLY partner with professional fees, miscellaneous, and sav- da Literary Finalist. The views expressed in ciation with a church that is anti-gay means churches with non-inclusive stances on mar- this piece are her own and do not necessari- they get zero support from me. We don’t riage and gender and claim you want to help ly reflect those of the paper. "Their association need this kind of bigotry in our neighbor- fight sex trafficking. Those communities are Emily’s Café has been a community an- hood.” In addition, Stories’s financial officer, one of the most vulnerable to be exploited.” with a church that chor for over 50 years in Victory Neighbor- Brian Stephany, is a board member of The As part of their fundraising efforts last fall, hood. Last fall the owners, Emily and Elliot, Wilderness Fellowship Ministries, a Christian Stories stated they were working with The is anti-gay means put the café up for sale. Stories Foundation, retreat that disavows same-sex marriage. Link (a non-profit that assists vulnerable they get zero a non-profit, announced its interest in- pur Also, Page has a background in ministry and youth) to provide internships for trafficked chasing Emily’s to create a café that would her husband is a youth minister at a church youth at the café. Yet, according to Beth support from me. educate customers and provide internships that links to the anti-LGBT Presidential Holger, The Link’s director, The Link never We don't need this for trafficked youth. They held fundraisers Prayer Team, Family Research Council, and worked with Stories. Even after Holger told online and at GracePoint Church to help Minnesota Family Council, a sponsor of Par- Page The Link would not work with them kind of bigotry in purchase the café. After the announcement, ents Action League, deemed a hate group because “they publicly advertise that they our neighborhood." confusion ensued about whether Emily’s against LGBT people by Southern Poverty are hiring youth victims…and we would not had closed and some Victory neighbors ex- Law Center. want to put the youth in situations like this,” Kale Duden pressed concerns about the non-profit. Ulti- Community members also expressed con- Stories continued to state they were work- mately Stories was unable to purchase the cern about the safety of youth working in the ing with The Link, raising questions as to ings. Their assets in 2016 were $30,902, café and Emily’s remains open. potential café, especially if they were iden- whether they misrepresented their connec- roughly half their total revenue for the year. tion with The Link to establish legitimacy to Their 2017 taxes have not been filed. raise money. Stories Foundation’s website states “Say In February, a Victory Neighborhood Face- that your cup of coffee goes toward abolish- book post asked, “what happened with the ing a $190 billion industry…sounds incredi- money collected for the purchase [of Emily’s ble, right? That’s our café vision.” To some it Café]? In an email, Page said the money is “in does sound incredible—incredibly disingen- holding until the time for a building is right.” uous. Beckers views Stories as “chas[ing] She said they are still interested in North after non-profit monies to start a venture…” Minneapolis. Stories also won money in an She believes more for-profit businesses online vote-in contest through Mill City Cred- are needed to create a healthy economy in it Union, beating out direct service non-prof- North Minneapolis. its. Stories Foundation has a history of us- Meanwhile, Elliot and Emily are still search- ing public donations to buy infrastructure ing for a buyer. Elliot anticipates returning to for the organization. For example, their fall the cafe under new ownership, as a custom- mission statement stated they provide direct er this time. resourcing and micro-grants; however, their NEWS NORTH NEWS 15 www.juxtaposition.org (612) 588-1148 FREE WALL 2007 N Emerson Ave, REGISTRATION Minneapolis, MN 55411 IS NOW OPEN! This FREE introduction to aerosol art 3-week summer camp is open to youth ages 8-21. No previous experience necessary! @jxta_arts /juxtapositionarts

SUMMER SESSIONS 2019: Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 9AM – 12PM 1808 Emerson Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55411

SESSION 1: JUNE 11—27 SESSION 2: JULY 16—AUGUST 1 SESSION 3: AUGUST 6—22

More info and registration at www.juxtaposition.org.

Free Public Allies supports nonprofit organizations serving our communities. Spring Contact us to learn how we can support you! Email: Wine Fling [email protected] Stop in to sample Phone: 612-302-3506 dozens of our favorite whites and reds. Thurs, April 11 5:30–8:30

612-522-4384 | blompls.com 2220 W Broadway Ave, Minneapolis Mon-Sat 8a-10p, Sun 11a-6p 16 NORTH NEWS March 28, 2019 NEWS Black History Month essays

In February, for Black History Month, North High students were challenged to write essays about how they have been inspired to be the change they want to see in their city, community (inside or outside of school), state, country, or even the world. It asked them to identify their sources of inspiration and their plans for taking action. Here are the three award-winning essays.

Inspiration to change Being the change By Demetria Jones North alize now that my accomplish- ganizations like AVID and YPE By Khadija Ba North High “Dear Khadija, Thank you for your pow- High ments aren't just for me; they're who gave me the opportunity “First ship ‘em dope and let ‘me deal the erful message. Your email reached my “What happens to a dream for my sister, for my mom, for to make a difference in my own brothers. Give ‘me guns step back watch desk, and I appreciate that you took the deferred? Does it dry up like a my grandma and for my an- life and others’. ‘em kill each other.” - Tupac Shakur time to share your thoughts and feelings raisin in the sun? ...or does it ex- cestors who died for dreaming Real change starts in indi- Tupac Shakur was very original and in- with me. It’s clear the issues you raised plode?” - Langston Hughes of becoming even somewhat viduals and that's why I start fluential to all people. He brought usto- weigh heavily on your heart, and I want Dreams, goals and even fail- educated. with myself and my own tri- gether through his music and acting skills. you to know that I care a lot about them ures are the key to success. If As a young black woman, it umphs and achievement and More specifically, his rap career informed too. There is no denying that even with you wait too long to accom- registered to me that I'm al- did after school activities like the black community of issues that we the significant progress we have made as plish something, what happens ways fighting two battles: the Freedom School and Brothers weren’t aware of at that time: drugs, gang a country, painful aspects of our Nation’s to the goal? Does it die or does one for my freedom and equal- and Sisters Unite. Any writing violence, and homicides are huge issues history continue to cast a long shadow it shatter? Langston Hughes is ity and the one of my goals and or performance chance I get, I that have negatively affected the black with regard to race relations—and import- an inspiration to me because dreams. To get one, I have to pick something I'm passionate community. ant work still lies ahead.” he taught me to never wait have the other. But to me, no about. That's why when I was Now that we have identified the issues, I immediately broke down in tears. I loved to achieve something even if one person is free until every- doing history day last year, I re- what can we do about them? Respective- how he understood exactly what I was the dream is as fundamental one is, and that means to me searched W.E.B Dubois, Booker ly, we need to get out and act together saying. He also said, “Again, thank you as freedom. He was born at a in modern times that every- T. Washington, and the Atlan- to decrease drug trade, and, more im- for sharing your perspective with me— time when his grandmothers one is educated and treated ta Compromise, and the year portantly, keep our children and families it's messages like yours drive me to keep were slaves and his grandfa- the same despite their race. before that it was Bantu edu- educated. It is shown that 78% of black/ doing everything I can to address these thers were slave owners on That's why I lead by example cation and Apartheid in South minority families are scammed because challenges. It’s clear you recognize that both sides. That's how com- with my grades and having all Africa. These are all things they aren’t properly informed about what all people are equal and deserving of re- mon it was for black women A's, and I even tutor my fellow that were not taught to me they are doing when it come to people spect, and if you maintain your dedication to be raped and forcefully im- peers and encourage them. My by teachers but I did my own of authority, which means that basically to helping others and commitment to your pregnated. Even through that, friends and I wrote letters to research on. Anything about 78% of us are being used by the system. studies, I’m confident you can achieve his grandmother still instilled the Minneapolis Police Depart- progression and education and Drugs, guns, and gangs are all the same anything you imagine. I believe in you! racial pride in him. He is the ment discussing the problem how that affects African Amer- old tired story in this community. So, when Your friend, outcome of all the strong wom- of police brutality and incar- icans is what interests me and Jamar Clark was killed by a police officer, Barack Obama” en in his life, as am I, which is ceration, especially on African that's why I aspire to help my I was wrecked. It was a very heartbreak- After receiving this letter I was inspired to why I feel inspired by him. He Americans. Having panels with community. Whether I become ing story and could have been avoided on create a website and reached out to ac- became one of the most influ- history breaking people like a lawyer, social activist or a fa- both sides. tivists, and talked about these issues. My ential men in literature, despite Ilhan Omar, where we talked mous writer I know I am going So, at age 12, I sent an email to Pres- sister and I are now starting a book drive the oppression placed on his about change and how she to make a difference. I have to. ident Barack Obama. I told him how I for prisoners, and we’re trying to get lights race and that's what I aspire to uses her position to help the “I have discovered in life that was heartbroken, terrified of the police, set up. Prisoners don’t get an education, do too. But he knew to be able minority, but also having pan- there are always ways of get- and I wanted to do something about it, and if they aren’t educated they’re likely to reach real success, his peo- els with police officers who ting almost anywhere you but no one would listen to a 12 year old to repeat the same crime that had them ple had to be free, and he was patrol Minneapolis and other want to go, if you really want to black female. I asked him if he could help arrested. Blacks are 3.6x more likely to be only thriving off the fruits of his places in Minnesota where we go.” - Langston Hughes us. On November 28, 2016 I had gotten a incarcerated in local jails; 40% of people in ancestors’ labor as am I from discussed police officers’ minds personal reply from the President. Obama jail are black. the barriers that he broke. I re- in those situations through or- said, and I quote: NEWS NORTH NEWS 17

Only the strongest survive

But most times in our community, society defines us “African American presence were targeted for par- and that's where the bad crabs come into play. ticipation. Many cities with this profile have robust I live in Minneapolis, and not just any part of Min- education reform efforts underway or are grappling neapolis, but North Minneapolis. I believe that North with education challenges that prevent large num- Minneapolis is full of community but only 45% of our bers of African American children from maximizing community believes it. We have only a small por- their potential.” This study shows that African Ameri- tion of real community activists. In our community, cans are targeted, many of our students tell us that in we have the people who are all for our community some period of the years of schooling they have been who want unity and perseverance but when you have told that they weren’t good enough or smart enough. people who are not on the same page as you, things Michelle Obama stated in her memoir Becoming that don’t always fall through, things fall out. That’s why her high school teacher told her that she wouldn’t be the urban community is so strong, because the heart able to go to Princeton, that she didn’t qualify. But of the community never stops fighting. In 2016 at she went and graduated from Princeton, eventually the Democratic convention, former first lady Michelle moving on to graduate from Harvard Law School. Obama stated “when they go low, we go high.” That Black people of color are survivors no matter the quote speaks volumes in our community because circumstances in poverty. During our lifetimes, things when people in our community go low, the real lead- aren’t going to be easy; people are not going to want ers of our community go high. As you can see, the community change. Motivating myself by looking Northside community is a fighter and is probably the around my surroundings helps push me on the path most resilient community in Minnesota. that I want to achieve. Looking up to positive lead- I get my motivation to strive and be great from my ers also helps motivate me; if only it helped motivate peers and people who don’t believe in me. my other peers, maybe, just maybe, our community When I'm at school, and I look at my surroundings, would be better. But the lack of motivation my peers I make note to myself that I will not be the next sta- face comes from oppression; it comes from society tistic, and that I’m going to make it, because I want already not believing in them; it comes from them better for myself and I don’t want to settle for less not seeing enough powerful leaders in their commu- By Taylor Tidwell-Bennett North High because that what others around me do. In 2016 the nity. It comes from them seeing the fast way of life Imagine living in a world where it’s just crabs in a most recent data was that only 65% of African Amer- and wanting to achieve that because its easier. They bucket; everyone is trying to get to the top but most icans graduate high school. This is true. It is what ac- didn’t ask for this, but since it's been around them for of the people around them are pulling them down and tually happens in our schools. Students come to class, so long they’ll settle because this is their life. only some of the people are pushing them up. Every- but when lessons get hard, they give up and stick to Positive African Americans only uplift us so much. body is trying to make it to the top. That’s what it’s like what they know. No matter what goes on around me, One African American teacher at a school can only to live in an urban community; it’s the survival of the I never give up and I don’t let what others do or say try and educate us on our black history so much. We fittest; only the strong survive. define me. If anything, them being work-shy is what are resilient people; we are fighters and deep down Only the strong survive in urban areas. All of the pow- pushes me to do better, so that when I’m at my best, in our souls, we know it. But in our Northside commu- erful African Americans that we all see today came I give it back to my community. nity in Minneapolis, us millennials have to reach deep from poverty: Michelle Obama, Alvin Ailey, Jean-Michel Additionally, the lack of motivation in my fellow down in us and want to fight for what most of us Basquiat, Shirley Chisholm, Malcolm X, Katherine John- peers is honestly unimaginable. Most people in my really want to see: a positive urban community. Our son, and Jay Z. All have been able to defy the standard school just aren’t in it mentally with school. Most of ancestors definitely didn’t fight for us to be sitting in in our communities. the students in my school have either already had no these chairs for nothing The overall perspective that society portrays on peo- motivation for school or have lost it. I don’t know if ple of color in urban places is that they are indeed it’s because they have never been supported in edu- dropouts, uneducated, dirty, and a waste of time when cation or what, but it’s very depressing. When I am in in all actuality those biases are imbecile. African Amer- school about three people a day say that they don’t icans are one of if not the most influential people in the have the motivation for school. When a student con- world. Our communities may not look or be the best, tinues to say that they have no motivation for school, but it’s what we have and what we make the best of. they mean it, and if a student has the guts to speak up and say that they lack motivation, it's been on their heart for a while. At the end of the day these students still have to come to school and when they get here teachers already have the low expectation. So what does that do for the child? In the 2017 es- say written by Lift Every Voice And Lead, they state 18 NORTH NEWS March 28, 2019 NOTICES

GRADUATION Nicholas J White clinics. Call 612-287-2433 or visit neighbor- registration is now open. Spring season Whitney T Wildman hoodhealthsource.org for more info. starts April 7 and the leagues are filling up. To register, visit www.dameladona.com/futbol-at- Bethel University Chong Xiong Northside Boxing Club (1704 33rd Ave N) la-dona or www.ladonasports.com. Jimmy Perdomo Kathy G Xiong offers free lessons to kids ages 9-21. Training Blia Yang includes boxing drills, technique work, running Registration is on now for the Capri Glee! and strength conditioning. Each session ends Adult Community Choir under the direction Mai Blia Yang DEAN’S LIST with a healthy meal. Hours are Monday-Thurs- of J.D. Steele. Spring session rehearsals take Molly N Yang day from 4pm-5:30pm and 6pm-7pm. On place on Tuesdays from 7-8:30pm, April 2-May University of Dubuque Fridays, youth open boxing is offered from 30, culminating in a joy-filled concert at 7pm Naomi Amani Bates College 4pm-7pm. Tuesday, May 7. Rehearsals and the concert are held at the Capri Theater. Anyone age Quinn Kiernat Hennepin County funding assistance for lead 18 or older is welcome to sing, and there is paint – Homeowners and landlords may be St. Olaf College no fee to participate, though contributions to eligible for a free home test and as much as Eleanor Goodnow Drake University the Capri will be accepted. Register online at $8,000 in lead reduction costs, such as new Ella Paine Sara Feldman thecapritheater.org or call 612-643-2058. windows. Contact: healthyhomes@hennepin. Sophie Zahran us or 612-543-4182. Ongoing Thursdays – Community Coffee Hamline University & Conversation, 11am-1pm. Get to know Minnesota Solid Waste & Recycling customers neighbors and enjoy complimentary beverag- University of Minnesota-Twin Cities Halima Ahmed who have not signed up to participate in the es. All are welcome at Serendripity Spot (3300 Kevin T Yang Hakima Siyad organics recycling program may do so at any Lyndale Ave N). Samantha A Mikulak time by visiting www.minneapolismn.gov/ Olufemi E Akindumila Minnesota State College-Mankato organics. There is no extra cost, but you have Mondays – Sign up for a weekly 30-minute to sign up. session to practice reading and do literacy Samira Ali Kayla Haugen activities with a teen mentor. 2pm - 5pm. Tuesdays – The Twin Cities Mobile Market de- Gisell Ayala-Corral Nina Tarley Visit or call the Webber Park Library to register. livers affordable and healthy food weekly to Jack M Barthold Chazzy Evans 612-543-6751 Sponsored by the Webber locations across North Minneapolis and the Park Friends. For kids entering grades K-3. Eliot E Berven Makiyia Harvey Twin Cities. A wide variety of fruits, vegetables, Abigail R Clapp Taylor Kueng meat, dairy products, and staples like rice and Fridays – Family Storytime. 10-11am. Webber Grady W Cromer Pader Lee dried beans are available at below-market Park Library. For children of all ages and their Matthew L Fistler Miranda Mier prices. Cash, all major credit cards, debit cards, parent or caregiver. Talk, sing, read, write and Julia R Fratzke Joshua Vang SNAP/EBT, and Market Bucks are accepted! play together in a format appropriate for young Questions? Call 612-280-2434. Their delivery children. Share books, stories, rhymes, music Maria E Godinez Chong Xiong schedule does change. For schedule and map and movement. Isabella Gold information, check out: https://www.wilder.org/ Tuesdays – Boot Camp at The Trailhead: Hannah M Greenstein Programs-Services/ tcmm/Pages/default.aspx. Tammie's most popular class - Boot Camp is a Ikran Hassan RESOURCES Do you live in Near North or Willard/Hay? multifaceted and high-energy class that com- Bruce Her The City of Minneapolis is seeking communi- Then your block could be eligible for a mini bines elements of strength and cardio to create Mitchell J Hockenberry ty partners to host City-owned parklets for block club grant through the Northside the perfect morning workout. As you work your Phillip Howard the 2019 season. Parklets are unique public Residents Redevelopment Council. Funds are way through the various stations, you'll find available for a project or event you want to cre- this session challenging you in varied ways as Cynthia Lee gathering spaces built in the right-of-way with seating, plantings and other amenities for peo- ate. For more information call 612-335-5924 each targets a different muscle group. Boot Tejlim Lee ple to relax and enjoy city life. The application or email [email protected]. Camp is a great way to get in a well-balanced Chanelle M Logan and challenging workout before you start deadline to apply to host a City-owned parklet The Northside Residents Redevelopment your day. Theodore Wirth Parkway Trailhead, Anna M Loken is Friday, April 5. The City has three parklets to Council is partnering with Mid-Minnesota 6:15am-7:15am. Kia Lor find hosts for. Find more information about the Legal Aid to connect residents of Near North Xai Lor parklet host application process on the City’s and Willard Hay with free attorneys. If you 3/30 – The UROC 2019 Annual Youth Sum- website or by contacting Kelsey Fogt at Kelsey. Vai Lovan are having legal troubles that relate to your mer Resource Fair is a summer showcase [email protected]. City crews will setup home or business and live in the Near North for parents and children. It will be held 2001 Regina K Markert the parklets at host locations in the spring after or Willard Hay neighborhood visit their clinic Plymouth Ave N., from 11am-2pm, and is free Michael A McColgan street sweeping is completed and will remove at the NRRC office Mondays and Tuesdays and open to the public. Henry C Meeker them in the fall. from 10am-3pm or set up an appointment by 4/3 – Cardboard Creations. 11am-4pm. Kids Seth D Newhouse The Census Bureau is hiring temporary calling 612-335-5925. and families are invited to drop in and use your My Chi Nguyen employees for the 2020 Census. The jobs The City of Minneapolis offers free energy imagination to construct your own cardboard Zachary T Olson offer weekly pay, competitive pay rates, flexible efficiency home visits and 0% financing on creations. We'll provide the supplies for you to hours, and paid training. By joining the 2020 Vanessa G Pesantez recommended energy-saving upgrades while build whatever you can imagine! Held at the Census team, you can support your communi- funding lasts to qualified households with a Webber Park Library (4440 Humboldt Ave N). Hannah C Reichl ty while getting paid to do it. Learn more here: family income less than $94,300. Homeowners 4/4 – Healing Circle: Post-Traumatic Stress Ian K Reinl https://2020census.gov/jobs/ and renters can call 651-328-6220 or visit Sierra M Rodero from Bullying. 6pm-7:30pm. Webber Park The City of Minneapolis is now accepting mncee.org/hes-mpls to schedule. Library. A mental health practitioner from The Ruby J Roettger applications for the Minneapolis 4d Afford- Pillsbury United Communities’ Oak Park Center Zen Bin will present this community-healing Grace A Rude able Housing Incentive Program, which helps (1701 Oak Park Ave N) hosts free commu- circle. It will be a safe space for discussion, Johnathan M Schocker property owners obtain property tax reduc- nity dinners on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and support and resources, as well as an oppor- Aubrey Smith tions for agreeing to keep a portion of rental Thursdays from 5pm-7pm. tunity to learn self-healing tools that can be units affordable for 10 years. For more infor- Laurel Struwe personally applied to your life right away! Do mation check out: http://www.minneapolismn. not suffer in silence; we are here to join you on Rosamond G Sturgis gov/cped/housing/WCMSP-214366 your healing journey. Shea G Swenson Neighborhood HealthSource hosts free and EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT 4/6 – Explore Nature! 10:30am-12:30pm, Ariel Vang reduced cost mammograms for eligible wom- La Doña Cerveceria's brewery futbol league Webber Park Library. Enjoy nature-themed Lee Vang en every month at one of their three Northside activities, meet a live critter, and learn about NOTICES NORTH NEWS 19 the Mississippi watershed and our regional own container. Co-hosted with Corner Coffee/ youth in grades K-5th grade who are living apolis so parents can find schools that are the ecosystem. Collaborators: North Mississippi Corner Church and the Minneapolis Park & in supportive housing in Camden. Volunteers best fit for their kids. River Regional Park, Mississippi Watershed Recreation Board. are matched 1:1 with a youth to build a strong relationship, tutor in literacy concepts, and Management Organization. Kids event. 4/22-26 – Prince fans, especially those in town engage in enrichment activities like arts & 4/13 – Teen Geekery Club 12:30pm-2pm, for the Prince Celebration 2019 are invited to crafts, games, creative play, etc. To apply, visit Webber Park Library. Are you an anime and visit the Capri Theater where, on January 5, HOUSING www.ppl-inc.org/volunteer or contact Volun- manga fan? A cosplayer? A fan of Doctor 1979, Prince played “the gig that started it teer Coordinator Caitlin Dougherty at caitlin. Starting over the next few years, home- Who, Steven Universe, Voltron, Gravity Falls, all.” Prince Legacy Tours at the Capri will be [email protected] / 612-455-5108. buy Northpoint Health and Wellness has Homestuck, Supernatural or other fictional offered on the hour from 10am-4pm Monday, announced an eviction prevention pilot works? If yes to any of these, Teen Geekery Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, April 22, 23, Teen Tech workshop is held every other Thurs- program. This program is open to anyone who Club is for you! Watch anime, create and share 24, 26; Thursday, April 25 tours are available day. North Regional Library, 5pm-7pm. Get lives in Hennepin County, lives in a rental unit, your artwork, and discuss your favorite fan- from 10am to 12pm. Tickets are $20 and are creative and make music, videos, animation, and is concerned about being evicted or being doms. All fandoms welcome! Sponsors: Friends available online only at www.thecapritheater. and other projects using high- and low-tech unable to pay rent. Mediation services, legal of the Hennepin County Library, Anime Twin org/prince-legacy-tours-2019. (No walk-ups.) tools, everything from iPads and 3D printers to help, and housing case management is avail- Cities. Grades 6-12. Proceeds from ticket sales go to Capri Theater synthesizers and sewing machines. Led by the able for renters; services are also available for library’s Teen Tech Squad. More information at 4/13 – Gardening for Wildlife in the City, arts programs including the Capri Youth Ap- landlords interesting in assisting their tenants. http://www.hclib.org/about/locations/north-re- Creating Habitat and Co-Existing with prentices. To enroll in the pilot contact NorthPoint Health gional. Nature. 9:30am at Webber Recreation Center. 4/26 – Join the Minneapolis Park and & Wellness Center at 612-767-9159 or visit Your landscape can support pollinators, birds, Recreation Board (MPRB) for an entertain- MN Comeback and Great MN Schools 1315 Penn Ave N. and animals. In this free workshop you will ing evening in appreciation of trees at the launched Minnesota School Finder. This The City of Minneapolis can help renters learn how to use your yard to create an urban 2019 Minneapolis Arbor Day Celebration at resource guide for parents provide objective, who want smoke-free housing, and it can habitat for wildlife, and gain tips to humanely Theodore Wirth Regional Park,4pm-8pm! The relevant information on schools across Minne- control critters. award-winning festival is full of tree-themed 4/14 – Celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month activities and educational opportunities, music, with some of Minnesota's most notable jazz food, beer and, of course, new trees! Anyone legends, hosted by award-winning vocalist can help MPRB Arborists plant 200 new trees. and KBEM Radio host Patty Peterson in an The event will be held in the area of the park intimate afternoon of live music and inspiring between Wirth Lake Beach and JD Rivers’ stories. Peterson will reminisce with several Children’s Garden, near the intersection of Twin Cities jazz legends who have achieved Glenwood Avenue and Xerxes Avenue. Share local and national acclaim. These jazz legends this event with anyone who may be interested will entertain with music that they love and using the easy-to-remember web address, discuss how their individual journeys have www.minneapolisparks.org/arborday. become the musical history of Minnesota. 5/7-12 – In celebration of its rich history and This program is presented by KBEM's Jazz88 bright future on Minneapolis’ Northside, the and will be recorded for later broadcast, and Capri Theater presents six days of perfor- archived for on-demand listening at www. mances just before doors close and construc- jazz88fm.com. Support for this program has tion begins on the theater’s 20,000 square been provided by the Marney and Conley foot expansion and renovation. All events take Brooks Fund and an Arts & Cultural Heritage place at the Capri. Admission information for Fund to KBEM. The event will be held at the each event can be found at thecapritheater. Minnesota History Center (345 W. Kellogg org. Blvd), from 2pm-3:30pm, $20 for adults and $10 for youth ages 5-17. 4/15 – Club Book, a program of the Metro- politan Library Service Agency (MELSA), is EDUCATION thrilled to announce an exciting new season April 16– the next Minneapolis Public School of author events hosted in public libraries Board Business Meeting will be held on April throughout the Twin Cities. Winter headliners 16, beginning at 5:30pm at the Davis Center, include chart-topping novelist Don Winslow, 1250 West Broadway Ave. Top Chef finalist and memoirist Kwame Onwuachi, and Minnesota’s own Leif Enger. April 30 – The next Minneapolis Public School Club Book events are free and open to the Board Committee of the Whole meeting will public. Seating is on a first come, first served be held on M, beginning at 6pm at the Davis basis, and doors open 45 minutes before each Center at 1250 W Broadway Ave. program. Club Book with Kwame Onwuachi What’s Up 612! is an online resource for will be held on April 15 at the North Regional children and youth, ages 5-21, where citywide Hennepin County Library at 6:30pm. after school activities can be found. More 4/18 – Design a Skateboard. 5pm-7pm, Web- information can be found at: http://www. ber Park Library. Using permanent markers whatsup612.com and templates, create art on a skateboard Mondays – Sign up for a weekly 30-minute deck. Materials provided, including a skate- session to practice reading and do literacy board deck. Collaborator: Rivard Art. Funded activities with a teen mentor. 2pm - 5pm. Visit by Minnesota's Arts and Cultural Heritage or call the Webber Park Library to register. Fund. 612-543-6751 Sponsored by the Webber 4/20 – Spring Egg Hunt. Victory Park. 10am. Park Friends. For kids entering grades K-3. Bring the little ones out to celebrate spring and Project for Pride in Living (PPL) seeks volun- hunt for candy-filled eggs. Please bring your teers interested in mentoring and tutoring 20 NORTH NEWS March 28, 2019 NOTICES help property owners make their buildings a health-related emergency or any other CO exposure is fresh air or oxygen. Severe housed 1,218 homeless veterans – 613 in smoke-free. For smoke-free rental housing similar tenant assistance response. 2) When a exposure requires medical attention. Do Hennepin County. Minneapolis and Henne- help, renters and property owners and manag- Minneapolis Police Department crime preven- not return to your home or building until the pin County have the highest concentration ers can call 311 or visit www.minneapolismn. tion specialist determines that an incident at a source of the problem is discovered and cor- of homeless veterans in the state. Anyone gov/smoke-free. ers and renters will be able rental property requires City intervention after rected. For more information about natural who served in the U.S. armed forces, Army to learn energy information about a Minne- reviewing a police report, a letter is sent to both gas safety, visit CenterPointEnergy.com/ Reserve or National Guard can join the apolis home or apartment before they sign the landlord and the tenant about what needs BeSafe or call 612-372-4727 or 1-800- registry regardless of the type of discharge. on the dotted line. In February, the Minneap- to be done to resolve the problem issues. 3) A 245-2377. Homeless veterans or their representatives olis City Council approved three policies that new interdisciplinary panel convened by the Just like eating greasy food can clog peo- are encouraged to call 1-888-LinkVet (1- combined touch all housing types in the city: City’s Regulatory Services Department will ple’s arteries, grease and fat can build up in 888-546-5838) or complete the application residential energy Benchmarking, time of rent review the issues and help determine a com- drainpipes in homes and restaurants and online at the website for the Minnesota energy disclosure, and time of sale energy munity-centered approach that encourages out under the streets. Clogs in the pipes can Department of Veteran Affairs Homeless disclosure. The goals of these policies are to re- landlords and tenants to resolve problems with cause sewage backups into basements and Veteran Registry. duce overall housing costs, ensure homeown- a goal of discouraging unnecessary tenant call for expensive repairs. The City is hoping The City’s Municipal Minimum Wage Or- ers and renters have reliable information about displacement. to raise awareness about the impacts that dinance took effect 1/1/2018. There will be their energy costs when deciding where to live, The Minneapolis City Council has passed an grease can have on plumbing at individual a tiered phase-in period for small and large and reduce carbon emissions. These policies ordinance prohibiting discrimination against properties and in the City’s sewer system. A businesses. Large businesses that employ are recommended in Minneapolis’ Climate Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher holders. new rule has passed that allows the City more than 100 workers will be required to Action Plan and will help the City make prog- Under the ordinance, landlords will only be to charge property owners for cleaning, pay employees a minimum of $10 an hour ress toward its community-wide greenhouse obligated to consider to renting to voucher repairing or replacing City pipes clogged beginning 1/1/2018. Small businesses with gas reduction goals. Minneapolis joins nearly holders. That means a landlord cannot refuse with grease. The grease rule sets up a 100 or fewer employees will be required 20 other cities in adopting residential energy to rent, impose unique standards, or otherwise framework to mitigate risks and decrease to pay workers at least $10.25 beginning benchmarking for large buildings. treat HCV holders differently from tenants the costs to rate payers. Problem spots in 7/1/2018. Large businesses have until CenterPoint Energy is reminding customers without vouchers. Landlords retain their ability one-tenth of the sewer system have cost 7/1/2022 to reach a minimum wage of $15 about certain rights and their responsibilities to screen the voucher holders like other tenants the City close to $1 million since 2012 to an hour and small businesses have until as it relates to the Cold Weather Rule (CWR). using legal criteria. keep pipes flowing. The clogs divert money 7/1/2024 to reach $15 an hour. and time from other critical sewer system The CWR protects residential customers Through its 311 service, the City of Min- needs as crews are inspecting pipes and who are experiencing difficulty paying their neapolis has opened a new hotline for cleaning out grease every two weeks. The natural gas bill from having their natural gas reporting hate crimes, harassing behaviors costs of these services in a small number of service disconnected between Oct. 15, 2018 BE AWARE motivated by prejudice. The hotline number locations are borne by sanitary sewer rate and April 15, 2019. While the CWR does not is 311 for anyone calling from within the city The City implemented Winter Parking payers across Minneapolis. Find more in- prevent customers from being disconnected of 612-673-3000 statewide. Those with a Restrictions Feb. 27 after significant snow formation here: http://www.minneapolismn. for nonpayment, it does provide customers report to make can also call the Department with extra protection as defined in the CWR. accumulation had narrowed city streets, gov/publicworks/sewers/fats-oils-grease making access difficult for emergency of Justice at 612-664-5600. As always, in However, residential customers must contact People must be at least 21 to buy tobac- the case of immediate physical violence, CenterPoint Energy to set up a payment plan. vehicles. Milder weather has allowed the snow pack to melt, returning streets to co products in Minneapolis as of 10/1. property damage, or threats, people should Call CenterPoint Energy to set up a payment Minneapolis raised the age from 18 to help call 911. plan at 1-612-372-4680 or 1-800-729-6164. more normal conditions. Beginning March 22, normal parking rules were reinstated. protect younger generations from lifelong For additional information, please visit Center- nicotine addiction, tobacco-related illnesses, PointEnergy.com/ReadyForWinter. Although the restrictions have been lifted, it is still possible to have additional Snow and the tobacco-related health disparities The City Council passed a measure on Nov. Emergencies. Sign up for alerts to stay between white populations and people of BUSINESS DEVELOPEMENT 2 reforming the way the City works with informed of the parking rules at minneap- color. Research shows raising the age to Every month the West Broadway Business landlords and renters when complaints are olismn.gov/snow. buy tobacco will keep an estimated 30,000 made about disruptive criminal and nui- young people from starting to smoke over a and Area Coalition meets for lunch on the sance conduct to provide more protections Carbon monoxide (CO) exposure incidents 15-year period in Minnesota. third Thursday of the month from 11:30am- increase during the winter months and 1pm at 1101 West Broadway Ave. The next for tenants and resources for landlords to Minneapolis has joined a statewide pro- resolve problems. Highlights of the amend- CO is often called the silent killer. It is a lunch will be held on March 21. colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that when gram to help reduce homelessness among ments to the City’s Conduct on Licensed The Minneapolis Business Portal is a new inhaled, enters the blood stream prevent- veterans. Since the Minnesota Department Premises ordinance include: 1) A violation of online platform designed to connect entre- ing proper absorption of oxygen, leading of Veterans Affairs launched the Minnesota the ordinance cannot stem from 911 calls preneurs and small business owners to the to illness and even death. Treatment for Homeless Veteran Registry in 2014, it has reporting domestic violence, domestic abuse, information and resources needed to plan, launch and grow a business. The online RIVER OF LIFE LUTHERAN ST. OLAF portal, available at business.minneapolismn. 22nd & Fremont Ave. N., gov, features roadmaps, checklists, tools ADVERTISING IN NORTH NEWS LUTHERAN 612-521-7655 and resources to help both new and existing We are an empowered multicultural people CHURCH businesses. RATES of God serving and sharing God’s love in 2901 Emerson Ave. N. Every month the West Broadway Business the North community. 612-529-7726 and Area Coalition meets for lunch on the Worship 10 a.m. Sunday SIZE B&W COLOR Hospitality and Welcome to all. Sunday School/Adult Bible Study third Thursday of the month from 11:30am- 1pm at 1101 West Broadway Ave. The next Full Page $1100 $1100 at 9am lunches will be held on Jan. 17, Feb. 21, and 1/2 $600 $600 Worship at 10:30am REDEEMER LUTHERAN (ELCA) March 21. 1/4 $350 $350 Nursery provided Logan & Glenwood 1/8 $200 $200 612-374-4139 Pastor Dale Hulme 1/16 $ 110 $ 110 Adult Bible Study 9 am Sunday www.stolaflutheran.org To place your notice: Prayer & Praise 10-10:30 am Sunday and on Facebook Email [email protected] Worship 10:30 am Sunday We are LGBT affirming. Please inquire for pricing if you’d like a different size than the ones listed. After School Program Tuesday 4:30-6:30pm. or call 612.302.3424 Pastor Kelly Chatman Diversity thrives here! NEIGHBORS NORTH NEWS 21

Tbd

Jen White has served as a senior policy aide to both Minneapolis Bringing Mayor Jacob Frey and former City Council President Barb Johnson. perspective By Kenzie O'Keefe Editor | Photos by David Pierini Contributor Jen White has spent her entire career working at Minneapolis City Hall for some of the city’s most recent influential leaders: Mayor Jacob Frey, former City Council President Barb Johnson, and Council to power Member Elizabeth Glidden. As Frey’s senior policy aide for public safety, and youth and family development, she also works closely with Minneapolis Police Chief Medaria Arradondo. This month she talked to North News about her passion for making city hall accessible, her deep love for the Northside, and being a strong woman of color who feels community pain personally—and brings it to her job. 22 NORTH NEWS March 28, 2019 NEIGHBORS

As the senior policy aide focused on public safety, White works closely with Police Chief Medaria Arradondo.

You’ve worked at Minneapolis City Hall was working for Elizabeth. I’ve consid- A white board in White’s office showcases both her busy schedule and how beloved she is in community. for 13 years. How did you get your ered it; I’ve thought about it. Maybe! start? Through one of my regular cus- When Barb Johnson lost her reelection, tomers at the 50s Grill in Brooklyn Cen- you were hired as one of Mayor Jacob in part, because she brought people in I’m from here and have worked for the ter. I was working there in 2005 after I Frey’s Senior Policy Aides. Do you feel close in a very personable way. She al- City now for almost 13 years. My re- graduated from the U and could not find a more palpable pressure working for ways sat in this sitting room chair and lationships working on both the south a job. The customer, Patty Marsh, was the Mayor versus a City Council per- had everyone sit on the couch in her of- and north side of the city. Being able to an associate for Council Member Don son? Yes, it’s very different. I remember fice for meetings, so it felt as though you move in spaces that he can’t as a wom- Samuels. She said “give me your resume when I was on the council side, I’d be were in her living room chatting with a an of color. Being able to talk to people and I’ll bring it down to City Hall.” I got like “what do they even do down there? friend. She would always begin meet- and identify with different communities my foot in the door as a paid intern in Why do they have so many staff? We ings by asking people about their fami- in different ways. Public Works Administration. One day move all the policy.” But I get it now. It’s lies and lives, always remembering very You mentioned bringing diverse per- everyone was like “council member so a really high profile, high volume office. specific, intimate details before talking spectives to both of them. I imagine and so is coming down.” I didn’t know You’re representing the entire city, not business. It put people at ease. that’s hard, draining, difficult work. what a council member was at that just a portion of it. With my area too, What do you think you taught her? I How do you think about that? I’m point. Elizabeth Glidden and [her poli- public safety, it’s a lot of pressure. like to think I was able to offer up new mixed race and from Minnesota, so be- cy aide] Andrea Jenkins were the ones perspectives at times, about race in ing “the only” is not foreign to me. I’m who walked in. Andrea and I really hit Your current boss is Mayor Frey. Your particular. She got it. She would always used to that in a lot of situations. Some- it off in that moment, and then they had previous boss was former Council talk to me and have a conversation and times I get frustrated being that person an opening [for policy associate on their President Barb Johnson. What have really would listen. I felt really valued all the time, but I feel like it’s kind of an team]. I applied. Ultimately, I think Eliza- you learned from each of them? What working for her. honor and privilege to be able to repre- beth let Andrea decide because the aide do you think they’ve learned from you? sent and give voice to people in commu- and associate work so closely together. I learned patience from Barb. It real- What about Mayor Frey? He is very nities who aren’t in those spaces in City Andrea decided to take a chance on me. ly took a lot to ruffle her feathers. Her high energy, and I think that’s infectious. Hall, the halls of power. I hear it from I was the youngest person on the floor. quiet leadership—she let you come into He works really hard; if you put in the community and the chief that they’re There weren’t very many people of color your own and do the things that you hard work, that matters a lot to him. Ja- really glad that I’m in my role because working for the council at the time. wanted to do. She led the council in that cob is like go go go all the time. He is I can be helpful navigating issues and way too. The importance of relation- a lot of fun to work with and he has a Why devote your life to civil service in policies. That kind of keeps me going ships in getting things done and recog- really good heart. He really cares about Minneapolis? I never intended to get in- when it gets tough, because it’s really a nizing staff when they did a great job. people and is very open to learning new volved in politics, but I’ve always been a tough position. Barb also held a lot of power, but she ideas and perspectives. He is not afraid helper person and a people person who did so in this very graceful, unassuming to be vulnerable with what he doesn’t Did you know it would be this tough wanted to make a difference. way. I always called her a political ninja. know and has an eagerness to learn. going in? I had somewhat of an idea, Would you ever run for office? I’ve So many times, I would see her as the but no. The volume of work is huge. In What do you bring to him and his of- thought about it. People have brought only woman in the room, but everyone our first year we had the Super Bowl, fice? Diverse perspective and expe- it up to me for a long time, even when I listened to what she had to say – I think two officer involved shootings, - Ket rience. He’s not from Minnesota, and NEIGHBORS NORTH NEWS 23

the people and being in tough positions. The Fourth Smith Baker is my dear friend and mentor. I always "I'd like to see what Precinct is a tough precinct. [We need someone] with joke with her that I want to be like her when I grow up, we can do as a city to [former inspector Mike Friestleben’s] finesse and gen- both personally and professionally. She has a blended uine relationships with community but also someone family like we do. She has been such a steadfast com- create policies that are who can handle the administrative aspects of that role. munity person who has used her position to uplift the community and bring resources and highlight the good Tell us more about the youth and family development things that are happening. She is definitely an inspira- supportive of BIPOC component of your work. What are you advocating tion. Her sister Shannon as well. families so we can for now? A big thing for me is the equity and inclusion piece. We talk about how Minneapolis and Minnesota How has your work changed moving from the council bring everyone up and are a great place to live and raise a family and yada side of city politics to the mayoral side? I worked with yada. I’m always saying: “but for who?” We have such and for very powerful women my entire career. Now make this a great place a great racial disparity in outcomes for people of color, I work for a very powerful man. That was a big dif- and black and indigenous people specifically. I’d like to ference for me. I had to get used to that more mascu- for everyone to live." see is what we can do as a city to create policies that line, bro-y energy, [but] Jacob is a lot of fun and he will are supportive of BIPOC families and communities so admit when he doesn’t know something. He wants to Jen White we can bring everyone up and make this a great place argue and banter and back and forth to get to the best for everyone to live. outcome. I had to learn how to embrace that debate team kind of style and work differently. amine, and we had the sexual assault investigations Who do you look up to in our city? Andrea Jenkins. I series, “Denied Justice,” that brought to light various call her my forever work wife. I wouldn’t be where I am Working for city leaders, you’re often on the receiv- ways we were failing women who were reporting sex- without her. She supported me through all of my major ing end of community pain and anger. How do you ual assaults. It’s been major things one after another. growth. I had my first real professional job because she handle that? The most important thing is that you decided to take a chance on me. She has always been can’t take it personally. It’s not about you; it’s about You’re helping with the selection process for the new true to herself and has stood up for those of us who are the systems, issues, or underlying problem. You have to Fourth Precinct Inspector. Describe your ideal in- on the margins; I still call her when anything’s hard or recognize and know that whatever people are angry spector. What the community is really looking for is I need to vent or I need advice. That’s a lifelong thing. about, it’s valid. It’s for a reason. Their stories matter someone who will connect with them and not be afraid and their perspectives matter. Sometimes people just Who do you look up to on the Northside? Chanda of coming into the neighborhood and getting to know need to vent and know that people who have access to power are listening to them. I learned FIRST AVENUE PRESENTS: that you cannot bullshit anybody on the Northside. People see through that in a heartbeat. Even if you can’t give them PORKY’S GROOVE MACHINE Hello, My Name Is ALBUM RELEASE the response they want to hear, be hon- W/ RADIOCHURCH, JAEDYN JAMES AND THE HUNGER est and truthful about that and people APRIL 12| 7TH ST ENTRY really appreciate that. I have also dealt with a lot of pain, loss, and trauma in my personal life, so I can identify with peo- TAUK ple who are going through it with their W/ FROGLEG APRIL 13 | FINE LINE own battles. I can empathize with them and feel that pain very deeply. It helps me lean in and get closer to the strug- EROTIC CITY gles and then I am able to take that and W/ LENKA PARIS, DJ SHANNON translate it to help guide my work and BLOWTORCH, BROTHER JULES, MIKE 2600 ultimately influence the policies and de- APRIL 20 | FIRST AVENUE cisions being made that can have an im- pact to address those issues. THE NEW POWER Anything else? I also want to say that GENERATION NPG FT. THE MUSIC OF PRINCE there is something very special and APRIL 27 | FINE LINE unique about North Minneapolis. The community has a way of drawing you in and holding you close. If you spend any MURS significant amount of time there, you fall W/ LOCKSMITH, COJO APRIL 29 | 7TH ST ENTRY in love with the people and the culture. You become a part of the fabric of the community in this really profound way that is very special and unique.

WWW.FIRSTAVENUE.COM | INFO LINE: 6513321775 Stay Safe. Stay Warm. Stay Connected.

Don’t Get DisconnecteD! enerGy AssistAnce cAn Help.

When heating prices skyrocket or a financial situation changes, many families worry about their heat being shut off.

For those having trouble paying their heating bills, Community Action Partnership of Hennepin County (CAP-HC) can help! CAP-HC’s Energy Assistance Program (EAP) provides financial NEED assistance to eligible Hennepin County residents, to help with HELP? home energy costs and energy related repairs.

Energy Assistance Program offices are now open in St. Louis Park and 3 Minneapolis locations: Minnesota Council of Churches, Sabathani Community Center and Minneapolis Urban League

For more information, call 952-930-3541 E-mail [email protected] or text 4WARMTH to 555888

www.caphennepin.org

facebook.com/caphennepin twitter.com/caphennepin

A program of Community Action Partnership of Hennepin County, sponsored by: The Minnesota Department of Commerce & The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services