The Staff of Harvest Best Academy Get Creative with School in a Pandemic

NORTH NEWS September 25, 2020 Serving the neighborhoods of North Minneapolis www.mynorthnews.org

ALSO INSIDE Violence is met by Navaeha Broyld-Henigan works quietly behind a a tireless ‘soldier’ plexiglass guard in her kindergarten classroom of peace at Harvest Best Academy. Page 6 The number of students is limited in each classroom as the public charter Soccer returns to school attempts to hold North High in-class school during the pandemic. Page 15 Class Is In Session The staff of Harvest Best Academy get creative with school in a pandemic.

Page 10 devastated local economy NEWS NORTH NEWS 3 my first rodeo so to speak. For more than The students are taking things in stride, NORTH NEWS MURDER & VIOLENT 10 years I taught radio journalism to high but their yearning for in-person learning 2020 Issue #9 school students and college freshmen is palpable. There’s talk of missed friend- Circulation: 10,000 in North Minneapolis. through the Greater St. Louis (Mo.) Asso- ships, missed activities … missed home- Delivered free on a monthly basis to CRIME RUNNING...worst RAMPANT school district in the nation... ciation of Black Journalists. Passing along coming. They even talked of missing some public places & homes in Near North & Camden. my knowledge to the next generation of of their favorite teachers. 3650 Fremont Ave. N, Shootings, lootings, and robberies are commonplace storytellers is one of my greatest hon- Distance learning works, but it’s far from Minneapolis, MN 55411 ors. It means more to me than any of the ideal. Phone: 612-701-3883 Website: www.mynorthnews.org accolades I’ve been fortunate enough to There are issues with internet connectiv- amass. ity, homes with multiple students in small Harry Colbert, Jr. Although it had been more than five spaces trying to concentrate on their Editor/Publisher/Advertising is years for me in a classroom setting (I was screen/class without being distracted by David Pierini Maurice Hudson ENOUGH! Staff Reporter Intern Reporter a volunteer instructor with the National their siblings’ screen/class. Some students Association of Black Journalists when the are barely audible due to weak comput- Thomas Toley Anya Johanna DeNiro ENOUGH national convention came to Minnesota), er mics combined with background noise Graphic Designer Copy Editor my trepidation had less to do with class- of televisions and the occasional barking Lyle James R Delivery room rust, but more to do with how the dog (that would be mine).

heck to log in on this darn Google Class- But despite the challenges, all the stu- Additional support is provided by The Jay & Rose room thing. That’s the unfortunate reality dents are giving it their all. Surprisingly, Phillips Family Foundation of Minnesota and the Letter from the Editor in which we now live. It’s the “new nor- for an 8:30 a.m. class where students are Minneapolis Foundation. mal.” And it’s heartbreaking. often in their bedrooms, the young report- “My name is Lacy Johnson. I have lived in North Minneapolis for 41 years Story ideas and letters to the editor under 300 words Harry Colbert, Jr. With Minneapolis Public Schools opting ers are attentive, alert and engaged. Hon- are always welcome. Unsigned letters will not be run. and I am running to serve the Fifth Congressional District in Congress. for distance learning (at least until Octo- estly, they are inspiring. Join our team. Vote for me on No vember 3rd.” ber) to keep students, staff, parents and Just three weeks into the semester and I If you want North News on your doorstep NOW, I haven’t had first day of school jitters subscribe for $30 per year. the community safe during the COVID-19 know this class … this experience … will be in quite some time, but on Sept. 8 there I Email [email protected] pandemic, lessons are administered vir- something special. or call 612-701-3883 to sign up. was anxious about the start of class. tually. We have nine wonderful young In the editions to come readers will get Next issue delivered: October 30, 2020 As a part of my duties as editor-in-chief ladies in our class – first period at 8:30 to read the works of these talented young for North News I am tasked with being North News is an enterprise of: a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday journalists. I trust you will be as enthralled an assistant instructor for the journalism – who I know almost exclusively by their with them as I am. These journalists are class at North Community High School voices. Most cameras are off and mics are special and oh wow, do they have a story (North High or North to most). This isn’t muted except when called upon. to tell. .

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. . 4 NORTH NEWS September 25, 2020 NEWS NEWS NORTH NEWS 5 North Minneapolis at a glance

underlying health conditions, to vote early and to vote without having to go to a poll- County gives up on ing place. That also leaves the polls free on Election Day for those who must vote in Gordon Center shelter person, protecting the vote and the health of all Minnesotans.” proposal Some 900,000 Minnesotan voters live Hennepin County leaders have backed alone, as do half of eligible voters with dis- away from locating a homeless shelter for abilities, an earlier court ruling noted. Re- single women at the vacant Gordon Cen- quiring a witness signature combined with ter. a lack of easy access to absentee ballots County Commissioner Irene Fernando, could have disenfranchised thousands who represents North Minneapolis, an- who cannot risk contact with others. The witness requirement was suspended nounced the county's decision Sept. 2 on Y. Elaine Rasmussen, earlier this summer due to the same law- her website. interim director of the suit. – David Pierini The proposed shelter met heavy resis- Association for Black tance from residents in the Willard Hay Economic Power. neighborhood and from activists, who are Source: LinkedIn hoping the Gordon Center is eventually developed as a youth center. The proposed shelter hinged on the Minneapolis school Rep. Lee has green board, the owner of the building, to sell it Candles, flowers and a pledge to end violence mark the spot where 17-year-old Village Financial could be in the to the county. A vote was never scheduled idea for rebuilding Andre Conley lost his life. Photo by Harry Colbert, Jr. and the project, Fernando said, had stalled to the point it was no longer workable. areas of unrest Community comes together following Absentee and early voting for banking business by summer 2021 "While the Gordon Center site is no longer being considered for this project, I am By David Pierini Staff Reporter of Minnesota said they remained com- A proposal to use renewable energy killing of area teen mitted to supporting ABEP’s mission still hopeful to determine potential sites grants could pump more than $40 million By Harry Colbert, Jr. Editor-in-Chief vise and spend time with them. We’ve November election has begun The interim director of the Association in building a Black financial institution. for emergency shelters so we can secure into the areas of the Twin Cities destroyed got to get out here and take these streets for Black Economic Power (ABEP) said Rasmussen, an ABEP board member high quality and holistic emergency shelter by civil unrest. One more is one too many. over.” The start of early voting – either mail-in or election day for those who vote in person the non-profit is on track to open a Black- and founder/CEO of Social Impact Strat- services in North Minneapolis," Fernando Rep. Fue Lee (DFL-59A), whose district A community mourning the killing of a While Conley went to Henry, Mauri Fri- in person – has begun. and those who serve as election judges. led credit union in North Minneapolis egies Group, resigned from the board to wrote. – David Pierini includes a portion of North Minneapolis, sometime next year. be interim director to get Village Finan- 17-year-old Patrick Henry student rallied estleben said the teen’s death affected her County and city election offices will be- I’m recommending that all voters request wants to establish a Rebuild Right Grant together to call for an end to the violence just as if it were one of her own students. Y. Elaine Rasmussen said ABEP is cur- cial back on track. gin mailing ballots to voters who have — and return — their ballots as soon as rently in talks with a local credit union ABEP began a search for a permanent Program in the Commerce Department to in the city. “I am so 100 percent over it,” said Friestle- requested them, and in-person absentee possible to help local officials process and to open Village Financial Cooperative as executive director and offered an open promote green energy tech in rebuilt build- Andre Conley was outside of a conve- ben in a now viral Facebook Live post that voting is now available at election offices count all of those ballots.” a partner branch, possibly occupying a call for candidates to fill a few vacancies ings and low-income households. nience store at the corners of Dowling and has reached more than 782,000 views statewide. Voters can request an absentee ballot at space in the 927 Building on West Broad- on the board for service set to begin Jan- Settlement gives “We’re facing an issue of equity where Fremont Avenues on Sept. 14 when he and 10,500 shares. “None of this is mak- Eligible voters may cast their absentee www.mnvotes.org using the online appli- way Avenue. uary. ABEP announced the recent board these communities impacted by the civil was shot multiple times along with anoth- ing any sense. We have an opportunity to in-person ballots at the Hennepin County cation. “We are thinking the summer of 2021 appointment of Shane Hughlye, a lead- every registered unrest have not traditionally been able to er unidentified 19-year-old. The suspect, say we will not be held hostage by the ac- Government Center, 300 S. 6th St. at the Voters can also request an absentee bal- is realistic,” Rasmussen told North News. er on the payment systems team of the tap into some of these energy efficiency another 17-year-old, was arrested Sept. tions of a few.” Skyway level or Minneapolis Elections & lot by downloading the “2020 Minnesota “The community has been waiting on Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. voter an absentee programs and some of these renewables,” 17. Sadly, Conley was the city’s 59th ho- Friestleben said police are openly abdi- Voter Services building, 980 Hennepin Absentee Ballot Application” and return- this. This work is so important and I’m “We definitely need (an executive direc- Lee told the House Energy and Climate micide in Minneapolis – a number that has cating their duty to uphold the law. Ave. E. ing it to their county election office by excited that there is new energy and new tor) that is good at relationship building,” Finance and Policy Division at an infor- exceeded 2019 homicides by 11. “The people who are in my community momentum.” Rasmussen said. “This position needs ballot application Minnesota is one of the first states in the email, mail or fax. Absentee ballot applica- mational hearing on Sept. 2. “These busi- But in tragedy North Minneapolis wit- need and want good law enforcement, ABEP formed after the police killing of to hold relationships with city officials, nessed one of its greatest showings of a but what I’m seeing in my community is country to open absentee voting for all eli- tion forms are available in English, Span- Minnesota will mail absentee ballot ap- nesses are from communities of color, In- Philando Castile in 2016 as a strategic funders, regulatory institutions and be community coming together. Two vigils police aren’t even patrolling anymore. gible voters. More than 926,000 Minnesota ish, Hmong, Somali, Vietnamese, Russian, plications to every registered voter for the digenous communities.” movement to reimagine how financial really comfortable moving across all the were held at the site of Conley’s killing, There’s no law enforcement. There’s reac- voters have already requested an absen- Chinese, Lao, Oromo, Khmer, and Amharic. institutions could serve the Black com- types of strategies that get things done. November general election to make voting According to a report on the Minnesota one organized by principals in the Minne- tion, but there’s no enforcement.” tee ballot to vote from home in the General Voters can request an absentee ballot munity. This person has to bring this to the finish House of Representatives website, the safer during the COVID-19 pandemic. apolis Public Schools district and anoth- For Quese R. the community vigil wasn’t Election. even if they are not registered to vote — a In 2018, Village Financial began a micro line and promote opportunities rooted in bill would use $45 million in the state’s Secretary of State Steve Simon has agreed er by community activists. Patrick Henry about any particular narrative, it was “Holding an election during a pandemic voter registration application will be pro- loan program as an alternative to preda- Black liberation.” renewable development account. The ac- to mail the applications after the American principal Yusuf Abdullah was at both. about mourning his friend. is a public health challenge,” said Secre- vided with their ballot. tory payday loans. Close to 2,000 people Later this year, ABEP will announce a count is money Xcel Energy pays into for Civil Liberties Union filed a lawsuit on be- “Andre was a character. A lot of people “He (Conley) was my brother,” said tary of State Steve Simon. “But the spirit Upon requesting an absentee ballot, vot- pledged they would move their money new round of micro loans aimed at help- nuclear storage at its Prairie Island and half of the NAACP. gravitate to him,” said a saddened Abdul- Quese, 16, who declined to offer his last that makes Minnesota the national leaders may check the status of their ballot, into accounts with Village Financial once ing small businesses and Black entrepre- Monticello plants. “By helping secure greater access to vot- lah. “He was calm and peaceful.” name. er in voter turnout is stronger than ever such as when it was mailed, and if their it opened for banking. But last year, the neurs. Lee’s bill calls for 75 percent of the money board fired director Me’Lea Connelly ABEP continues to seek pledges from the ing, this agreement represents a step to- Abdullah said Conley’s killing must be “For the past 10 years that was my in this difficult year. I’m expecting the al- completed ballot was received and ac- to go into a grant program and 25 percent and CFO Joe Reimann over allegations community to bank with Village Financial. ward racial justice,” said David McKinney, met with a positive reaction. brother. ready large demand for voting from home cepted by their local elections office. To do into weatherization activities for eligible of fraud, theft and mismanagement of For information on how to pledge or to a staff attorney with the ACLU of Minneso- “The question is, what are we going to do “People talk about Black lives matter, but to continue through to Election Day. It’s so go to www.mnvotes.org/track. ta. ”It makes it much easier for people who buildings located in areas damaged or de- about it,” asked Abdullah. “What worked people still killing people. One person kills funds. Both denied wrongdoing. seek an application to be on the board, about more than just convenience. Every – Harry Colbert, Jr. Shortly after the crisis, two of the biggest visit www.abepmpls.org. are at greater risk from COVID, including stroyed by unrest that followed the police for me is love. Young people need to know another and it just keeps going.” voter who chooses an absentee ballot funders, the City of Minneapolis and The killing of George Floyd. – David Pierini you care about them. We need to super- people of color, the elderly, and those with makes the polling place a little safer on Jay and Rose Phillips Family Foundation 6 NORTH NEWS September 25, 2020 NEIGHBORS NEIGHBORS NORTH NEWS 7

had people with me shot and killed. They died in my hands. Everything I come from, the drugs, the violence, the gangs, anger, resentments, abandonment … that was like training for me to be who I am today.” With all that Wilson has lived through, 2020 has tested him. He was delivering church meals during the onset of the COVID-19 shutdowns, then worked with A Mother’s Love to to provide food and other resources to residents when unrest over the police killing of George Floyd temporarily shut down one of North Minneapolis’ only grocery stores. A turbulent summer of gun violence seemed to only pile on an already difficult year. Wilson soldiered on, marching, organizing vigils, leading prayers, pleading for cease fires and, in one instance, helping others take cover during a shooting in Uptown. As September entered a third week, Wilson sent his network a text: Homicide vigil at 5 p.m. today. Fre- mont and Dowling. Andre Conley, 17, was shot and killed outside a convenience store. It was the 59th homicide of the year.

NO DIMMER SWITCH

Peace and justice is not a mantle of one. North Min- neapolis is blessed with a number of dedicated activists and groups fighting to end violence and systemic “I’m in the army of God. I’m a soldier and I will fight against the wrong in this community,” Wilson. “I did the drugs, racism. Some are highly visible, such as Spike Moss, Al I did the violence, you don’t have to. You can go to school, you can become a leader in your community, instead of a Flowers, Nekima Levy Armstrong and Marques Arm- gang chief. You can make it through, there’s hope. Look, I’m still here.” strong, Lisa Clemons, VJ Smith, Raeisha Williams and Farji Shaheer. Others don’t speak into a mic or bullhorn but are equally resolute, showing for every rally, march and outreach event. Meet or merely see Wilson once and he is hard to forget. He is tall and broad like a linebacker and wears bold- ly colored eye glasses that serve to frame large fierce eyes. The glasses come in different colors, from green to pink, and match the bright shirts and ball caps he favors. The bright colors do not distract from a brooding gaze. In his work, he is always worried and always serious. His speaking voice is an instrument of timbre, texture and tone. It is urgent, prone to crack from emotion and, when needed, has the musicality of a Sunday sermon. The voice is loud when it has to be and tender when comfort is called for. VIOLENCE IS MET BY A TIRELESS He is fearless when engaging gang members or drug addicts on a corner or in a park. He prays with them. He shows them love, compassion and, most of all, hope. “You better run,” he tells those he encounters. “I’m ‘SOLDIER’ OF PEACE probably gonna hug you.” By David Pierini Staff Reporter tion plastic soldiers on the edge of the tub way Wilson tells it. a gun. Where many would freeze as they watch grief undo with their guns facing the door. Like the toy army men on guard, Wilson, Wilson wants to deliver people from all and wreck a mother, Wilson moves closer to listen, As a kid in foster care, KG Wilson en- In his child’s mind, this was his protection 53, is a soldier … a peace activist – “serv- that pain because it is his pain, too. hug and cry his own tears. He then gathers people for dured merciless bullying from others in should his tormentors bust down the door ing God’s army” – trying to help kids out “I came from Chicago and I barely sur- a vigil, though there have been times, he says, he has the house. to continue throwing their punches. One of gangs, get people off drugs, feed the vived,” Wilson said. “I was in gangs, I been the only one to show up to pray. He found brief refuge at bath time. Once can hear the short, frightened breaths homeless and be a balm to the rage and sold drugs. I lost a son, have two other “KG is one of our pillars,” said Sasha Cotton, who settled in the water, Wilson would posi- and the slow drip from the faucet, the sadness that follows the muzzle flash of sons who were shot (they survived), I’ve Whether at the scene of a shooting or at a rally calling for a cease-fire, Wilson is a regular presence providing a Continued on page 16 message of hope. 8 NORTH NEWS September 25, 2020 NEWS NOW NORTH NEWS 9

catch up with our Minneapolis City Council member Phillipe Cunningham (Ward 4) was inaugurated in January 2018. We have invited him to keep in touch with the community through this Subscribe to home delivery today! Council Members monthly column in our newspaper. $30 for Northside residents | $50 for non-Northside residents has not been enough to keep us safe. reclaiming our community. Email [email protected] or visit www.mynorthnews.org. What we have is an epidemic of violence, That’s why I am excited to announce a public health crisis. That is what lead us that in the month of October the City to investing in a Cure Violence model of of Minneapolis will be introducing our WARD 4: violence interruption. Established in 1995, own local violence interruption program. Phillipe this model looks at violence as a public The program will include community health crisis and comes with a toolbox organizations that have been informally Cunningham that is tailored to address violence with a doing this work. By including these public health approach. As of today, this organizations and formalizing an model is being successfully used in cities • We need a comprehensive approach to approach to addressing this epidemic, across the globe. public safety that looks like a “both/ we will increase activities that get According to their website, the tools and” – prevention, intervention, ahead of incidents that end in violence. that the Cure Violence model uses to enforcement, and re-entry strategies The work must be to stop the violence Republican candidate for Congress, Lacy Johnson in his combat and decrease violence are North Minneapolis home and campaign office. Photo by Harry all working together. before it happens rather than simply detecting and interrupting conflicts, Colbert, Jr. • Violence spreads like a disease. Like a responding to it. conflicts remain deescalated. identifying and treating the highest risk disease, it can be prevented, treated, It is going to take all of us to tackle Fellow Northsiders, individuals, and changing social norms. and stopped from spreading. this. I know that I stand ready with you. Interrupting violence is a crucial tool Candidate for House of Representatives • We are facing an epidemic of violence in I am using this office to make sure our I’m happy so many of you were able to because this is a proven way to decrease our community, so we need to focus community gets what we need. We have join the virtual event on Sept. 8 where we violence. Interrupting violence requires says Blacks get nothing in return for efforts based on the public health a lot of work ahead of us, but I believe spent some time discussing the Future of us to get out on the streets where the approach to public safety. that we’re on the right track by rolling Community Safety work. Working towards violence is happening. It takes a special Democratic loyalty • Violence interrupters are trained out this new strategy. Don’t hesitate to a safer Northside is an urgency I feel deep temperament, skill set, and experience to reach out to my office: email – ward4@ community members who find and By Harry Colbert, Jr. Editor-in-Chief within my mind, heart, and soul. As we do this work. The people that do this work stop potentially violent conflicts, minneapolismn.gov, (612) 673-2204. have had to figure out how stop violence are deeply rooted in the community and prevent retaliatory violence, and in our city, it has become clear that the way have their ear to what’s going on. As we Be well, “What has the Democratic party done for Black people?” continue to stay engaged to ensure we have been approaching public safety know, community involvement is crucial to Phillipe That was the pointed question Lacy Johnson asked while sitting in the dining room of his North Minneapolis home, which also serves as his de facto campaign headquarters. Johnson, 66, is the Republican candidate seeking to climb the steep uphill moun- tain to unseat Rep. Ilhan Omar in the state’s 5th Congressional District. He is also hoping to change many Black people’s loyalty to the Democratic party, which he says has made Blacks depen- dent upon government and therefore, less self-reliant. NORTHSIDE BUSINESS Wealth Building and Business But in talking to Johnson, an affable man with an engaging Succession Planning demeanor, even he laughs (almost an involuntary action) when LUNCHEONS 2020 trying to explain how Blacks could benefit from switching to a Thurs, Oct 15th party that in increasingly becoming more insular in engaging in (white) identity politics, taking its cues from the occupant of the Every 3rd Thursday, White House who regularly serves up not-so-subtle racist tropes to his rabid followers. But Johnson says there is still a common WE ARE HIRING! 12pm-1pm Small Business/Commercial ground to be found. “(Former president) Lyndon Johnson – and he was a Democrat Financing – would use the N-word all the time and yet (the Rev.) Dr. (Martin Job Opportunities: Held virtually via Zoom to Luther) King (Jr.) was able to sit down with him and together they maintain social distancing. Thurs, Nov 19th got the Civil Rights Act and Voting Rights Act passed,” said John- Production Operators son, explaining how Blacks should work with President Donald Trump. “You don’t change people by calling them racist and mak- Boiler Operator VVisit westbroadway.org to sign up for ing them feel bad about themselves. The way you change people our newsletter and recieve event details. Toast to Northside Business Awards is to love thy enemy. It’s hard, I know, but that’s what I believe.” Electricians A self-described conservative, Lacy Johnson also believes Black TThurs, Dec 17th people already have everything they need to succeed in America. Lunch provided. They just need a better understanding of economics and politics. Maintenance Mechanics “We don’t need any new laws. It’s about understanding the cur- If youʼre interested in sponsoring rent laws and maximizing that leverage,” said Johnson. “We live in a free enterprise system and (lack of) economic development a lunch catered by local businesses, and wealth is what’s holding (Black people) back. (Democrats) Apply online today! treat us with pity. Because of Democrats, Black people have a please contact victim mentality. I bring a different way of looking at things.” [email protected]. Johnson said Black people’s affinity for the Democratic party is www.gaf.com/careers www.westbroadway.org www.neon-mn.org rooted in feeling, but not in tangible gains. Continued on page 16 10 NORTH NEWS September 25, 2020 NOW NOW NORTH NEWS 11

With most teachers at home conducting remote instruction, Harvest students are supervised in the classroom by paraprofessionals. Here, A boy attempts to maintain social distance while on the playground for recess. MyEasha Anderson, center, looks over the shoulder of Delaun Driver.

with the teacher and are supervised by paraprofessionals. There are between eight and 12 students in a classroom and they sit at desks with three-side plexiglass sneeze guards. All are masked and sitting furthering than six-feet apart. When school began in mid-August, kindergarten was held outdoors under tents. School staff gathered every morning at 6:30 a.m. to arrange desks and set up three large canopies. Since Sept. 8, kindergarten went indoors with eight students per classroom. This requires teachers and paraprofessional Students on a trip to the bathroom must wait to enter and exit by standing on markers set six feet apart. splitting time over multiple classrooms so that each kindergartner spends at least half their day with their teacher. In-person learning for kindergarten, teachers said, is critical. How do you teach a kid to hold a pencil or scissors or ask them to work a keyboard when they have yet to learn the alphabet? “At first, we thought they would be distracted outside on the playground,” kinder- Class Is In Session garten teacher Michelle Citarella said. The staff of Harvest Best Academy get creative with school in a pandemic. “But they got right into it from the very start. I think it helped to see all of the tents By David Pierini Staff Reporter school in North Minneapolis remain open “We’ve been trying to put this puzzle to- the year. Minneapolis Public Schools opt- with their friends learning.” and teaming with students in the mornings gether for months,” said Eric Mahmoud, ed to continue remote learning but offer Harvest Best Academy, like most schools to start their day in school, in a classroom executive director of Harvest. “We’ve been in-person support for technology, tutoring The Right Building in Minneapolis, has empty hallways and alongside classmates. doing a lot of research and trying to figure and mental health services. Other schools closed classrooms. Harvest has made several creative modi- out what are the best solutions for these across the metro adopted a hybrid model, Harvest, which sits near the corner of The start to the school year for most stu- fications it hopes that will keep staff and multiple problems that have surfaced be- with staggered groups of students spend- Highway 55 and Elwood Avenue North, is dents began as the last ended – at home students from catching the virus and en- cause of this situation. We’re very consci- ing two days a week in class. three separate buildings in one, each with in front of a computer trying to learn while gaged in productive learning. About 30 entious of the decisions that we’re making. Harvest’s plan is its own unique hybrid. All separate entrances. Children arrive at the the coronavirus pandemic continues to percent of the school's 750 students start- Our number one priority this year is the the teachers, except for three kindergarten entrance of the building they’re assigned and receive a temperature check before keep most of society from gathering. ed the school year in the building and if all health and safety of our staff and families.” teachers, are teaching from home. entering. Yet the doors to the K-8 public charter goes well, more students and staff will re- Gov. Tim Walz in August gave school dis- Students in school are on Chromebooks Kindergarten teacher Sarah Graham runs an alphabet lesson outdoors. The Kindergarteners spent the first two weeks under tents turn in mid-October. tricts statewide options on how to begin Continued on page 16 before going inside after Labor Day. 12 NORTH NEWS September 25, 2020 NEWS NOW NORTH NEWS 13

to retire at the end of the year. McDavid comes to Fellowship from Al- but you have to have the relationships Gallmon and Fellowship’s Deacon Board exandria, Va.-based Alfred Street Baptist to really negotiate with people around Fellowship chair, Sonia Smith, led the pulpit search Church, where he was assistant to the Minneapolis funds ceasefires,” Cotton said. “Do you have the committee through a nearly three-year Rev. Dr. Howard-John Wesley. McDavid relationships to tell somebody to put the Missionary national search process, which amassed had oversight of Village, a community min- guns down? more than 60 applicants. The candidate istry, Hidden Halos, supported the Men’s new outreach “The evidence really speaks that when group was whittled down to four final- Ministry, Tuesday night Bible Study, and you use these methods and you do them Baptist Church ists who presented bible studies and ser- the funeral service team. teams aimed with fidelity, they can really reduce shoot- mons throughout July and early August. “I am overjoyed to join the family at “the ings and greatly impact public safety. announces new The field was then narrowed to two can- Ship” (the name parishioners affectionate- at interrupting We’ve got to look at every possible tool,” didates. Church voting took place over a ly call Fellowship). It does not yet appear said Cotton. senior pastor two-week period, with the results formally what God has in store for this new chapter. violence A local Cure Violence initiative comes announced by Gallmon on Sept. 12. I cannot wait to meet you all and experi- near the end of a tense summer that be- By David Pierini Staff Reporter gan with George Floyd, whose death in Gallmon says the congregation is thrilled ence all that God has in store for this chap- The Rev. Elijah L. McDavid, III to Minneapolis police custody sparked un- beyond measure and praised the search ter as ‘Pastor and People,’” said McDavid. assume helm Outreach teams of orange-shirted res- rest and calls to defund and dismantle the committee’s dedication and professional- McDavid earned a Bachelor of Arts in Re- idents will soon deploy in North Minne- department for a new model for public ism. ligion from the Historically Black College apolis and other parts of the city to cool safety. By David Pierini Staff Reporter “As I journey towards my retirement, it and University (HBCU) Morehouse College conflicts and carry out proven techniques Stakeholders have yet to agree on re- The Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church warms my heart and soul to see how God in Atlanta, and a Master of Divinity from that reduce chronic violence. forms that best address excessive force introduced their congregation to its new walked with the pulpit search committee. Union Theological Seminary. The teams will be a cornerstone of the and eliminate barriers from disciplining senior pastor, the Reverend Elijah L. McDa- The committee demonstrated Godly dis- He plans to relocate to the Twin Cities in city’s growing violence prevention initia- bad cops. But there is growing consen- vid III, who will step into the role on Jan. 1. cernment, wisdom, and professionalism early November. Due to COVID-19, a for- tives that will be branded “MinneapolUS.” sus over redirecting certain calls – like for throughout the entire process,” said Gallm- mal installation service will be scheduled Teams of violence “interrupters” will be homeless or mental health emergencies – The church’s current senior pastor, the James McCloden, a case worker with the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans, Reverend Albert Gallmon, Jr., is scheduled on in a formal statement. at a later date. – Harry Colbert, Jr. The Rev. Elijah L. McDavid, III made up of people living or working in to professionals trained in areas like social can’t wait to tell a homeless vet “This is your address.” at-risk neighborhoods. The teams will use work, addiction and conflict resolution. their community ties to mediate potential- “We have had a very violent summer LOWER YOUR RISK OF COVID-19 ly violent disputes and work with victims and the system of policing we have is not and their friends and families to quell re- working or our current violence preven- taliatory impulses. tion efforts are underfunded,” said Coun- Construction on Hawthorne Wear a mask in public spaces, wash your hands, and stay 6 feet away from others. The teams will also have members cilman Phillipe Cunningham, whose Ward LOWERLOWER YOUR YOUR RISK RISK OF OF COVI COVID-1-199 who can provide exposure to schooling, 4 covers the Camden region of North LOWER YOUR RISK OF COVID-19 job-training and address a variety of Minneapolis. “When folks are saying, lots will bring housing LOWER YOUR RISK OF COVID-19 needs, from healthcare to housing. ‘do something,’ there is no stronger way Wear aW maskear a in mask public in public spaces, spaces, wash wash your your hands, hands, and and stay stay 6 6feet feet away away from from others. “We have to be prepared to solve what- than to advocate and adopt something Wear a mask in public spaces, wash your hands, and stay 6 feet away from others. ever barriers there are that are forcing that stops violence from happening and Wear a mask in public spaces, wash your hands, and stay 6 feet away from others. kids to think they have to live this life,” breaks the cycle of violence. stability to vets in need said Jamil Jackson, an educator, mentor “It is the most sustainable way to bring and consultant to the city’s Office of Vi- peace to our city,” said Cunningham. By David Pierini Staff Reporter sleeping on the street and say, ‘this is your olence Prevention, who will be part of a North Minneapolis already has peace address.’“ Small group Large group hiring panel. “This is a holistic approach. groups like A Mother’s Love and Mad In less than 100 days, a vacant lot in the MACV seeks out vets among the homeless You can’t just tell someone to put down Dads, front-line activists who work to re- Hawthorne neighborhood will be trans- population and gets them into shelters and the gun and not be able to show them claim violence-prone areas, provide com- formed into a refuge for four homeless mil- even hotels while they set up services that other options.” fort to families of victims and hold public SmallSmall group group LargeLarge group group itary veterans. re-acclimate them to a stable life. With the Small group Large group Two of the first four teams will cover terri- rallies to call for an end to shootings. Outside Inside tories north and south of West Broadway The new outreach teams will not replace The Minnesota Assistance Council for stress of shelter off their minds, homeless Avenue and were set to begin work at the those groups, Cotton said, but support Veterans (MACV) broke ground at 2314 vets can receive mental health services, job Small group Large group end of September, said Sasha Cotton, di- and bolster work already being done in 4th Street N. to make way for the construc- training and a more permanent home. In OutsideOutside InsideInside rector of the city’s Office of Violence Pre- troubled areas of the city. tion of a 2200-square-foot home with four the past three years, MACV has built five vention. To introduce the idea, the Office of Vi- bedrooms that will serve as temporary homes around the Twin Cities that serve as Outside Inside The city council on July 31 sent an addi- olence Prevention has visited several housing for vets. temporary housing. Far apart Close together tional $1.1 million to the Office of Violence parts of the city to hold screenings of the MACV has purchased a second lot on 6th MACV purchased the lots with the assis- Prevention to build outreach teams with documentary “The Interrupters,” which is Far apart Close together methods developed by Chicago-based based on the outreach teams in Chicago. Street to build a second home for vets, but tance of Urban Homeworks. To build the OutsideFar apart CloseInside together Cure Violence. Shootings in one of Chica- Jamil Jackson, the head basketball coach construction there won’t begin until spring. transitional homes, MACV also partners Short time Long time go’s most violent neighborhoods dropped at Patrick Henry High School and founder Each home could support up to four single with Housing First Minnesota Foundation, Far apart Close together 67 percent in one year after the first Cure of the mentoring program Change Equals vets for up to two years or provide shelter HomeAid Twin Cities, Lennar Builders and with Shortothers time Longwith time others Violence outreach team began. Opportunity, said he wants to see teams to a vet with a family. Wells Fargo. Since then, the program has spread to of people from all walks of life with a vari- “One day, I will probably manage a couple “We believe that every person should be Shortwith others time with Longothers time several cities in the United States, the ety of specialties. of people that are living in this house,” said given an opportunity to live their best life,” Middle East, the United Kingdom and “There will be the guys with those deep with others with others Central America. In all cases, the work of ties who lived some of the lifestyle in the James McCloden, an MACV case worker. said Jody Kern, board president for Housing FarShort apart time LongClose time together outreach teams sent violent crime statis- past,” Jackson said. “They understand “I can’t even tell you how important it is First. “We partnered with MACV because tics in a downward direction. the demographics, the language and the to help people see an end who have been their services align with our vision, which is with others with others “What we’ve learned as we’re talking to culture. But we won’t exclude anybody, chronically homeless for five, 10, even 15 to end homelessness in Minnesota.” Minnesota MinnesotaDepartment Department of Health of Health | health.mn.gov | health.mn.gov | 651-201-5000 | 651-201-5000 | Contact [email protected] [email protected] to request to an request alternate an alternate people who are doing this work in their especially those who can help with the years. You can take someone who was format.format. 8/18/12/2020/2020 cities is you not only have to have respect exposure opportunities.”

Minnesota Department of Health | health.mn.gov | 651-201-5000 | Contact [email protected] to request an alternate format. 8/12/2020 14 NORTH NEWS September 25, 2020 NOW NOW NORTH NEWS 15

tography equipment for the North jour- ing a Polar,” said Anderson, Head Start & The Be the Change Golf Tournament was nalism program, Sprayfinger, a visual arts Early Head Start director for the nonprofit, produced by avid golfer and clothing de- Capri Theater expansion nears completion program, the Heritage Youth Sports Foun- Parents In Community Action. signer Houston White (Black Excellence, Good golfing, dation and efforts to change the name of Anderson is a 1986 graduate of North Be the Change, Viictory) and educator John Construction continues along West benches, tables, trees and a small am- Patrick Henry High School, which is named High. Baker. Broadway Avenue at the Capri Theater, phitheater-type space outside the Capri better causes in honor of a former slave owner. including the installation of new auditori- Stage Door entrance. Be the Change Golf Tournament The fact North High benefitted from the um seating, carpet, paint, tile, doors, a new “We also envision food trucks parked on tournament was a bonus for golfer Jay Hall. security system and lighted signage at the the streets adjacent to the plaza,” said welcomed close to 150 golfers “I’m a graduate of North,” said Hall, who graduated from the school in 1988. “North entrances of the Capri auditorium and Par- Scott. to benefit North Minneapolis was a vibrant space where everyone was adise Community Hall. Planning for Capri tours and a Dennis youth focused on accomplishing their academic The final piece of the construction puzzle, Spears virtual event continue as well. Interview and photo by Maresha Green goals. It was a really good sense of com- the new Capri marquee, will be installed in Tours, slated to begin in November, will be Junior, North Community High School munity.” November. conducted according to COVID-19 safety Hall said he believes North is still that The Capri’s outdoor plaza on the west standards. The change is happening in North Minne- same type of school. and 23rd Avenue sides of the building is More information on renting space at the apolis ... and it is happening with golf. “I know there have been challenges at North High since my time there, but I think also taking shape. Capri is online at www.thecapritheater. Nearly 150 golfers teed-up Sept. 12 at people who label the school as bad are “The Capri plaza will be a beautiful place org, or by contacting Kevin West at (612) Theodore Wirth Golf Course for the Be the Change golf tournament benefiting area from outside the community and don’t have for performances and community events, 643-2039 or [email protected]. a connection to the community,” said Hall. youth including the journalism program at and for everyone to enjoy Minnesota’s out- Capri exterior construction can be viewed Rico Anderson also spoke fondly of North door seasons,” said James Scott, director in progress, live, at any time athttps://ti- North High Polars North Community High School. The event, during his golf outing. of the Capri. nyurl.com/CapriConstructionLive2. senior quarterback which enjoyed sponsorship that included “We take pride as a North High Polar. It’s Scott said the plaza will be well lit, with Zach Yeager. the PGA 3M Open, raised money for pho- pride in being a Northside resident and be- Source: Twitter North High’s Yeager chooses HBCU over Wendy’s House of SOUL relocates to Soccer returns to North High Glenwood Avenue Ivy League to continue education, football By Maurice Hudson Intern Reporter ty. Holding 12 offers, Yeager had to sift By David Pierini Staff Reporter By Maurice Hudson Intern Reporter of accounts and marketing at the Market through which offer was best for him. Troupe, which represents the restaurant. North High Polars senior quarterback “My top two were South Dakota State JT Sampson has scored plenty of points on Wendy’s House of SOUL reopened at its Heather Puckett, sister of Wendy Puckett, Zach Yeager has made the choice to play (University) and North Carolina A&T and Hobbs Field as a member of the North High college football at North Carolina Agricul- they both have great football programs. new location, 1825 Glenwood Ave. said she also is thankful for finding the new football team. tural & Technical State University in 2021. They both had great relationships with Owner Wendy Puckett experienced an location. Yet when he put a point on the board during North Carolina A&T is among the top me as a coaching staff, but I want to be array of challenges in the past year de- “We’ve bounced around place to place the first home game of the 2020 season, the but now we have found a home,” Heather Historically Black Colleges and Universi- around people who look like me,” Yeager spite being seven years into the business. ties (HBCU) in the nation for football and said. football team was in the stands. Sampson Puckett said. In November of last year Puckett was shot they are a three-time Celebration Bowl Yeager, planning to study mass commu- scored a goal for the first Polar soccer team The relocation of Wendy’s House of SOUL in the face with a pellet gun and the inci- winner, with their most recent bowl win nication journalism while at college, said in more than a decade, drawing hoots and dent caused the business to close for a few gave the business renewed hope. The new coming last year. going to North Carolina A&T will be more hollers from his other teammates, who were weeks prior to Thanksgiving. location has private, off-street parking, a Yeager said being a part of the North than just playing football. waiting to use the field for football practice. Thanksgiving is a big holiday for catering full kitchen, a full dining area and the busi- Polar community guide his decision to se- “Education comes first,” Yeager said. “My Sampson had played organized soccer since Polar players, Jacob Butler, right, Khadar Mohamed and JT and business for the House of SOUL. ness is able to utilize the full square footage lect North Carolina A&T. hopes and dreams as a little kid would be the fourth grade. That part of his life seemed Sampson celebrate a goal in a 5-1 win over Edison. Puckett was determined to come back of the location. “North, it’s a smaller school but I mean it to go to the NFL and if that doesn't hap- over when he enrolled at North. from the incident but COVID-19 derailed Wendy Puckett said the dining area will really just felt like a huge family,” Yeager pen, I want to study journalism and pos- “I’ve been asking and asking for a soccer her plans. Small businesses, especially food not be open until it is safe to do so accord- said. “Everybody’s super welcoming and sibly be a writer for ESPN.” team,” said Sampson, whose soccer experi- establishments, closed amid the virus, but ing to CDC regulations and the business they look at you as more than an athlete, Yeager touched on what the jump from ence gave him a leg up as the Polar football slowly opened up for delivery and take out. will stick to takeout and catering in the like you’re a part of their family. When high school to college football would look team’s punter and kicker. “And finally, the As things started to make their way back meantime. The interior of the building was you walk in (North), there’s banners like for him and what he needed to do to athletic director came out and said, ‘JT, we’ve to normal, Wendy learned that she lost her designed within four days in preparation of hanging down from every Historically achieve success at the next level. got the soccer team. Are you ready to play lease. the grand opening. Black College and University in the coun- “Speed, strength; everybody's bigger, now?’ I’m like ‘Yeah, let’s do it.’ “ “The owner (of the building) said he want- Wendy Puckett highlighted the slight dif- try. (The decision to choose A&T) really faster and stronger, so I know it's going Concerns over the spread of COVID-19 ed out,” Puckett said. “We were working out ference and disadvantage that comes with came down to what type of people do I to be a big jump. I know that I'm willing forced state high school sports officials to ini- want to be around for the next four years. to put in the work and I've been putting arrangements, then he completely changed the new location. tially postpone football until spring (that deci- To be around my people, just like North in the work to be successful on that level.” his tune.” “I’ll miss that people can watch us cook. sion was since reversed and the football sea- Highschool, is a huge benefit for me.” said the scholar athlete. She went from nearly owning the space to People liked to see us cooking,” Wendy said. son will begin Oct. 9. But soccer was allowed The owner and chef said she wants the Yeager turned down Ivy League schools Yeager said he wants to represent North losing the lease in a matter of weeks. But like Dartmouth College, Columbia Uni- Minneapolis and show the youth here to start play this fall and the timing was good re-opening to be a positive thing for the the hardship presented an opportunity. The versity and Cornell University to go the that they can do whatever they put their for Sampson. He gets to play his first sport as community to look forward to. new location is about seven minutes away HBCU route. Yeager had additional HBCU minds to. a Polar in his final year of high school. from the old location and the new building “I want to cook for people and see their offers from Arkansas-Pine Bluff, Tennes- “I want to set an example for a lot of kids The team is a mix of high schoolers and mid- has its upsides. smiles,” Wendy Puckett said. “I want the see State and Alcorn State. and show them that you can really make dle schoolers. Some, like Sampson, grew up “It’s a huge blessing. Having more room masses to love my food, come and eat, and Yeager said he felt like North Carolina it from anywhere,” Yeager said. “This is playing soccer. Others are playing for the first and more opportunity to cater is huge for have peace.” A&T was the best position for him to rep- for the future.” Lavar Jones, Jr. laughs after missing a scoring opportunity. Armando Garcia, races deep into Edison’s end of the field. He is the business,” said Pam McCurdy, director resent himself and the Black communi- Continued on page 16 an eighth-grader and starting forward. 16 NORTH NEWS September 25, 2020 NOW NEIGHBORS NORTH NEWS 17

But with all the precautions and layers Wilson was part of the Black Gangster Dis- Today, he is the outreach supervisor for A North High Soccer of protection, the virus continues to chart ciples in the 1980s and 1990s and was a Mother’s Love, whose founder, Lisa Clem- Candidate Profile an uncertain path. It could upend even the child leader in that gang. ons, he affectionately calls “Sis.” He sees her Continued from page 15 Continued from page 9 best plans. Staff are hopeful but they re- In 2000, he wanted to leave gang life be- as a mother figure and has drawn a lot of main vigilant. hind and so he fled to Minneapolis. Once strength from her during this difficult year. time, but accomplished athletes in other “There is no book written on this, so we’re here, he hit a downward spiral of drugs This past July, when a 7-year-old boy was sports adding speed and competitive fire. “If you’re looking for respect and love out of a politician then kind of figuring it out,” Mahmoud said. and alcohol and was in and out of home- shot in the foot at a Lowry Avenue conve- This year, there weren’t enough girls in- you’re looking for the wrong thing,” said the Republican can- “At the end of September, we’re going lessness. nience store during a drive-by shooting, Wil- terested to form a girls soccer team. didate. “(Politics) is business; it’s a transactional relationship. to re-evaluate, see how the community In 2004, he had spent three months sleep- son was at the intersection to hold up signs Wealthy people are not our enemies, they are out partners.” “I knew there were just a small hand- spread is and then determine what’s going ing on a bench in Loring Park. One night, for passing motorists. The signs implored When asked on policies on such as environmental justice, ful who had played organized soccer, but to happen in October.” he prayed, asking God to let him die in his them to honk to end the violence. Johnson’s response could be interpreted as a reason not to there was a general interest,” said Polar sleep. embrace the Republican policy, which often tends to side with When a false report in August of a po- soccer coach, Peter Branstad, who, like The future of education? He woke up mad the next morning, but big business. lice-involved shooting in downtown Min- Sampson, played soccer until he was re- When Walz shut down in-person learn- willing to surrender. neapolis caused unrest there, Wilson was “People with connections and wealth will always get their cruited to kick for his football team. “In ing in March, Mahmoud scrambled to get “There must be something He wants from among the activists to rush to the protests to way, and unfortunately, in our community we don’t have the enough laptops so that each student had the past, students who played soccer connections and wealth, so if a corporation has a smokestack me,” Wilson remembered thinking. “Maybe dispel the rumor. one. you can bring me from this. If you can heal And after 6-year-old Isaac Childress, III was didn’t want to come to North because it’s going to go where people don’t have the connections or Only half of the students turned them on there wasn’t a team.” wealth,” said Johnson. “So, we need to show up at these meet- my body, take away this feeling, take the swept down the Mississippi River while on a and “I was in tears,” he said. Mahmoud The game on Sept. 14 was a mix of histo- ings and let our voices by heard. I’m not dismissing the racial taste out of my mouth, I will become who I family outing later that month, Wilson went said about 30 percent of the students come believe you want me to become. I got up off ry and a quirky atmosphere that brought component in these decisions, but it’s less about race and more from homes where a different language is to Boom Island to be with the family. He did that bench.” levity to the ongoing pandemic and rules about economics. Gentrification isn’t about race, it’s about eco- spoken. Others, perhaps unsupervised be- not leave until divers recovered the body. nomics.” cause of working parents, were inconsis- “He’s known for being at the scene, which for social distancing. Leaning upon his faith, Johnson said moral decline in the Black tent with studies. Minister of hope is hard in of itself when you have your own The 5-1 Polar win was the first for the new community is at the root of many of its problems today. But more Harvest students, whether at Wilson was sober but restless in 2007. trauma,” said Bunny Beeks, who is grateful soccer team. It was also the first compet- “We had guns when I was growing up but we didn’t use them school or home, have been consistently He was packed and ready to return to Chi- for Wilson’s outreach after her mother, Bird- itive match to christen the new synthetic to shoot human beings because ‘The Ten Commandments’ “turning on” their Chromebooks and ad- cago when he saw a news report about ell Beeks, was killed by a stray bullet while in turf. When the switch was flipped on the the shooting death of 14-year-old Charez says ‘Thou shall not kill,’” said Johnson. “We had poverty and justing to a different sense of normal. her van at the intersection of 21st and Penn new stadium lights, the lumens seemed Jones. Wilson’s daughter, then 8, asked, avenues in 2016. “We all have that trauma hard times but we didn’t go around robbing and stealing be- “To me, this is eye-opening,” he said. “I’ve to overpower the late afternoon sun. cause ‘The Ten Commandments’ says ‘Thou shall not steal.’” been reading a lot about learning pods “What are we going to do?” and it gets exaggerated by feeling another A nearby resident got into a shouting The issue of gun violence hit home for Johnson when one of and micro schools and is this the way of First, he asked her to help him unpack. He family’s pain. It’s easy to want to give up the his canvassers, 17-year-old Andre Conley, was shot and killed the future? was staying to raise her. He then reached fight, but it's hard when you see violence match with the clock operator over the volume of pre-game music. Some of the This artist render envisions a vibrant walk-out overlooking the Mississippi River in North Minneapolis. Sept. 14. Conley was not canvasing at the time of the murder, “If I had the best teacher in the world, they out to Charez’s father, Guy Jones, who was every day in our community and you know just happen to live in Japan, they could a friend. players shouted “Go home!” The volume Courtesy of Minneapolis Parks & Recreation board but Johnson said the event still rocked him deeply. there could be change. I think that’s the way “I spent my life giving young people those type of opportuni- teach my children right here. We would Wilson went to the scene of her murder, KG sees it. It’s why he’s so passionate.” was turned down. ties. I know the situation a lot are grown in. And I know they just need to make sure that we have the attended the vigil and afterwards, sat on a North scored three relatively quick goals can overcome that, so it hurts when a life is cut short like that.” adults to provide the support for them.” bed in her bedroom consoling her father. In the ‘army of God’ and a few in attendance got upset with General Election voting in Minnesota has already begun and While sitting on the bed in Charez Jones’ Wilson has tried to retire at least three an official who issued a yellow card to will continue until Nov. 3. room, Guy Jones asked Wilson to be the times, he says, including last year, when he Sampson, who forgot he was wear- Mississippi River K.G. Wilson spokesman for a foundation in her name. returned to Chicago for the funeral of his ing earrings, a no-no according to rules Efforts were made to profile Rep. Ilhan Omar, but an interview “He was heaven-sent,” Guy Jones said. “Ev- mother. about jewelry. was not able to be scheduled in time for press. Continued from page 6 erything was foggy. I was numb, discon- She had been clean and sober for 35 years. North principal, Mauri Friestleben, a nected and I had so much anger. He helped Mother and son reconciled and were able to strong supporter of adding soccer at heads the city’s Office of Violence Pre- me restore my balance. I understood the enjoy a close relationship. She became an overlook nears completion vention. “This work requires that lev- North, provided a fieldreport with her lord put him there for that reason. What addiction counselor and, like her son, dedi- Harvest Academy el of intensity. People who can hold that By Maurice Hudson Intern Reporter be inviting to the North Minneapolis community. Ac- he does, not everyone can do. People don’t cated her life to helping people find a differ- smartphone and Facebook Live. fire, it’s remarkable and it is life-saving.” cess to natural amenities in North Minneapolis is not Continued from page 11 shy away from him, they gravitate to him ent path. When Jacob Butler scored the second The Great Northern Greenway River Overlook on a common thing. Cummings said the project will give because he’s legit. He doesn’t look for any- But she seemed to have a blind spot, he goal of the game, he ran with his arms An unanswered prayer 26th Avenue North overlooking the Mississippi River is people of the community something that the North Mahmoud designated each building a pod of no more than thing in return.” said. As Wilson’s story got featured in news- out to the side like a happy airplane. Wilson dreamed he might one day be a nearing its completion. hasn’t experienced in more than 50 years. 65 students in each. Classrooms have a mix of grades in each Every year on her birthday and the anni- papers, on videos and earned him public Butler is a Polar basketball standout and classroom, each student wearing earphones as they listen to minister, but his childhood set his feet upon The overlook is set to be done at the end of October. “We want to create those kinds of places for us versary of Charez Jones’ death, Wilson vis- service awards, he never got the acknowl- among the team’s novices. His only soc- their teacher. Siblings are also placed together. a different path. He was in a foster home The overlook is an oval-shaped trail that will sit above (North) because that’s what communities do,” Cum- its her grave with balloons. edgement from her he needed. cer experience is playing the FIFA soccer Should a student or students test positive in one of the pods, because his mother struggled with drug ad- the Mississippi River and extend over the river’s shore mings said. “All these other communities have these At her wake, some of the women his moth- video game, which gave him some ideas Mahmoud says the building’s design would allow him to shut diction. Always on scene er had helped, introduced themselves. “We with a 50-foot-tall beacon in the center. The Minneap- resources that we lack and we’re self-determined to down the one pod while allowing the others to operate. He felt unmoored and unloved. Bullying at on how to pass and move the ball up field. olis Parks Foundation helped create a link to the river be able to make these happen.” If there is a homicide, whether in North know who you are. You’re your mom’s pride “Yeah, the first game, honestly, I was kind The heating and cooling system in each building allowed school and in his foster home, compounded Minneapolis or St. Paul, Wilson will race to with the overlook and North Minneapolis’ Juxtaposi- Paul Bauknight, project implementation director at and joy.” of nervous because it was my first time for easy installation of ceiling-mounted air cleaners that clean his fear and sadness. the scene to comfort families, talk to wit- tion Arts is providing the artwork for the space. Minneapolis Parks Foundation said the river access Wilson began to sob. Having mulled over the air in the room six times per hour. Classroom doors remain “I was being abused and tortured in this nesses and help make plans for either a ever playing,” Butler said. “It was kind of The overlook features an original youth-designed will potentially open things up for the Northside. retirement on the bus ride to Chicago, he felt shut so that the cleaners work efficiently, Mahmoud said. foster home,” he said. “This one time, I got vigil or march. He has even been to places emboldened to continue. strange but then I got into the groove. For interpretive railing depicting a history of the Upper “Connection to the river is very important and it high- Mahmoud is also working to secure sites in church basements punched in the nose and I had a busted lip. such as Rochester and St. Cloud to bring a “It’s nothing human,” he said of his energy. me, I’m playing to get in shape for bas- Riverfront. The railings created by the apprentices at lights and starts to put greater focus on what we need and community centers to create learning pods out in the I took off running down the street and I saw hopeful message to a fractured part of the “It has to be spiritual. There is no other way ketball. I hope I am better than I was last Juxtaposition is designed to pay homage to the nature to do next,” Bauknight said. community that would be supervised by paraprofessionals. these guys, they were all dressed in blue community. I could do this. I’m in the army of God. I’m year on the court because I’ve been run- of the landscape and the Native Americans that lived Cummings said with the overlook the community will “Sometimes life puts you in a situation where you have to and seemed like they were happy and smil- His presence in North Minneapolis be- a soldier and I will fight against the wrong ning up and down the field for two hours along the river. have more spaces for people to utilize and spend time. pull out of your narrow thinking and widen your options,” ing. They stopped me and I told them what came widely known when he used to park in this community. I did the drugs, I did the every day.” Mahmoud said. Roger Cummings, chief cultural producer at Juxtapo- “We’re intentionally creating spaces that we can heal, happened. his car near the intersection of West Broad- violence, you don’t have to. You can go to sition Arts, explained the significance of the designs recreate, and reflect in,” Cummings said. “The overlook “They looked like a family and I was alone way and Lyndale Avenues each Tuesday Still best guessing school, you can become a leader in your for the overlook. will be one of those places. We want this to live for with no friends or nothing. I asked if I could and Thursday night. With his daughter as Since school began, students and staff remain healthy, and community, instead of a gang chief. You can “We always kept (representation) at the root of the generations, similar to all the other groups that have be in their family and they said, ‘Yeah, little a sidekick, he would blast gospel music teachers have found kids to be surprisingly focused. Mah- make it through, there’s hope. Look, I’m still continent and to diversity,” Cummings said. generational amenities and assets.” man.’ I had just joined one of the biggest and distribute food and prayers to needy moud said the adult support is making every go smoothly here.” The project took an overgrown and unsafe land and gangs in Chicago.” passersby. created it into a Mississippi River access point that will thus far. 18 NORTH NEWS September 25, 2020 NOTICES NORTH NEWS 19

fresh produce, whole grains and familiar at (651) 291-0211 or text MNRENT or grades K-12. Visit www.hclib.org/ school favorites. Sites in North Minneapolis MNHOME to 898-211. homework to find a HelpNow tutor or other MAKE YOUR VOTE COUNT include Bethune, Cityview, Patrick Henry, resources. HelpNow provides resources Are you struggling to keep up with Hmong International Academy, Jenny Lind Grocery delivery: The Northside Residents for building academic skills, study habits, Mail-in ballots: Ballots for the Nov. 3 and Nellie Stone Johnson, Monday through Redevelopment Council will continue a writing assistance and live help for general election started getting mailed out Friday 11 a.m.-- 3 p.m. Lucy Laney will weekly “Northside Nice” grocery delivery language learners. housing costs due to COVID-19? on Sept. 18. To make sure you ballot will also have meal boxes weekdays from 11 service. The service is available to senior returned on time apply to the Minnesota a.m. -- 5 p.m. citizens and single-paren who are unable Hennepin County can help. Secretary of State’s Office by visiting to get groceries on their own. Visit www. https://bit.ly/33ozWWa. BE AWARE Support line: Minneapolis Public Schools nrrc.org for more information. Library hours: The Webber Park Library has partnered with Watercourse is allowing short visits and access to Counseling Center to create a telephone Northside Residents Redevelopment library computers, printing, faxing and EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT support line for the MPS school community. Council is holding board elections on Sept. Emergency assistance is available for renters and homeowners: photocopying. The library will be open Litter Be Gone: The Jordan Area The support line is available from 9 a.m.- 30 from 1 p.m. - 7 p.m. at the NRRC office, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Community Council will host a 5 p.m., Monday to Friday. There will be 1303 Golden Valley Road. • Get help covering housing costs like rent, Fridays and Saturdays and on Thursday Neighborhood Litter Be Gone day on support for multiple languages. Call (612) from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. If you need library mortgage payments, and utilities Saturday, Oct. 3 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. 767-4158. The service will link students, North Minneapolis Pet Resource Center, services and don’t want to go inside the Meet at 3119 Irving Ave. N. to learn to families and staff to a therapist and other 1401 44th Ave. N., is a program created • You can apply and receive funding multiple times library, call (612) 543-6750 to learn about get supplies and learn about the different resources. More more information about and operated by My PitBull is Family other options. cleanup routes. Masks are required. available services visit https://health.mpls. to keep its in their homes by providing • More households now qualify k12.mn.us/mentalhealth_hotline.html. resources, referrals and pet supplies Radio updates in your language: Tune to families in need. It is open Tuesdays into Minneapolis’s cultural radio programs Learn more and apply at hennepin.us/housing-help Minnesota’s COVID-19 Housing and Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. but for COVID-19 updates. The city is COMMUNITY RESOURCES Assistance Program is now open to cover you have to place a pick up order on the broadcasting updates on KMOJ 89.9 FM Free family meals at school sites: Families housing expenses, such as rent, mortgage group’s Facebook page https://www. (English), La Raza 95.7 FM (Spanish), KALY can pick a free meal box one per child per and utilities. The program is designed facebook.com/NoMiPRC/. 101.7 FM (Somali) and WIXK AM 1590 week at 29 Minneapolis Public Schools to help keep eligible people in homes or (Hmong). sites. Children do not need to be enrolled maintain housing stability for renters. To Online Homework Help: The Hennepin in an MPS school. Each box contains five apply for assistance, call the Greater Twin County Library has online tutors available breakfasts and five lunches and include Cities United Way’s 211 Resource Helpline seven days a week for helping students Here with you. Here for you.

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HOW TO APPLY Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and salary expectations using the online application on the kpCompanies.com website: VP Marketing & Communications

All submissions shall be received in strictest confi dence. Call or email Miquel McMoore: [email protected] or 952-525-2258 with questions and cc [email protected]. Both kpCompanies and Minneapolis Foundation are equal opportunity employers. 2220 W BROADWAY AVE, MINNEAPOLIS | 612-522-4384 | BLOMPLS.COM MON-SAT 10A-10P, SUN 11A-6P