In UMD's Kirby Lounge on Monday night, it was standing room only. About 200 students, faculty and community members showed up to a public forum known as, 'Spat Out' forum. It's hosted by Students Promoting Awareness Through Teaching (SPAT)
Although Student Rep. Daniel Oyinloye said turnout at these events have always been strong-- he described turnout Monday as record-breaking. Several other students who spoke mentioned that the forum drew five times as many students as what is typical
An incident that happened a few weeks ago on Facebook took center stage during the forum. Two white students allegedly made racist comments on their Facebook walls about one of their black peers. At the time of the alleged incident, they were in the Oakland Apartments-- a University building.
"I want us to think about our friends who we allow to say stupid jokes that aren't funny," said one student. "That's what ultimately lead to the incident at the Oakland Apartments," she said. Many students challenged their peers to step in before hateful comments escalate.
"I feel heart broken and I feel upset," said one student.
Among students, the incident fueled anger, emotion, and an increased desire for change.
"I was hurt as a person, that another person would hurt someone like that. It hurt me and I was destroyed over it," said another student.
Many said that they see racism everyday on campus, and throughout the entire Duluth community. They questioned why it took so long for others to take a stand.
"I'm glad everybody's rallied up and mad about this and wants to make change on this campus," said one of the students. "But recognize you're just adding on to changes that have been trying to be made forever."
Chancellor Kathryn Martin was not at the forum. A spokesperson for UMD told Eyewitness News that Martin had a prior commitment.
Vice Chancellor Vincent Magnuson stood up and spoke to students. He acknowledged that racism exists on campus and pledged to everyone, that administration is listening and will take action
"It won't happen overnight, and not by graduation. But with your help, some things can change," Magnuson said. "We're trying to work toward some solutions."
Next Monday, Students Coalition Against Racism (SCAR) will host a silent march to show that they will not tolerate racism. The group has invited the public to join. It begins 10am at the Washington Center on 2nd Ave. W and 3rd St., and ends with a protest at UMD's Kirby Plaza (by the bus station).
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Sauk Rapids-Rice Community Festival to highlight organizations
Sauk Rapids-Rice Community Festival to highlight organizations
By TaLeiza Calloway • tcalloway@stcloudtimes.com • April 18, 2010
Comments(0)Recommend(3)
Twitter FarkIt Type Size A A A SAUK RAPIDS — A celebration of school, community and culture is planned this week with the Celebrate Sauk Rapids-Rice Community Festival.
An effort celebrating the district’s program to build ties among community members, this is the first year for the celebration, said Shayne Kusler, the integration liaison for Sauk Rapids-Rice High School.
“Very few people are native to this area,” Kusler said. “What we wanted to do is find a way to get people together and appreciate everybody.”
Kusler said the event will feature music, entertainment and food from Cafe Renaissance, Somali Cafe, Asian House, Creative Catering and Mexican Village Too.
Free food samples will go to the first 300 attendees, and more food also will be available for purchase.
The first 250 families also will receive a free tote bag.
About 40 local organizations will be present to share information about community resources, said Denise Weekly, head of the planning committee.
Weekly said other activities include performances from the Stearns County Pachanga Society Quartet, student bands, Pacer Puppets, advocates for people with disabilities and a tae kwon do demonstration.
“Our event is to celebrate different cultures in our community and schools,” Weekly said. “We want it to be really inclusive of (what) the district and community have to offer.”
Sponsored by the Sauk Rapids-Rice school district, the free event will be 5:30-8:30 p.m. Friday at Mississippi Heights Elementary School, 1003 Fourth St. S, Sauk Rapids.
By TaLeiza Calloway • tcalloway@stcloudtimes.com • April 18, 2010
Comments(0)Recommend(3)
Twitter FarkIt Type Size A A A SAUK RAPIDS — A celebration of school, community and culture is planned this week with the Celebrate Sauk Rapids-Rice Community Festival.
An effort celebrating the district’s program to build ties among community members, this is the first year for the celebration, said Shayne Kusler, the integration liaison for Sauk Rapids-Rice High School.
“Very few people are native to this area,” Kusler said. “What we wanted to do is find a way to get people together and appreciate everybody.”
Kusler said the event will feature music, entertainment and food from Cafe Renaissance, Somali Cafe, Asian House, Creative Catering and Mexican Village Too.
Free food samples will go to the first 300 attendees, and more food also will be available for purchase.
The first 250 families also will receive a free tote bag.
About 40 local organizations will be present to share information about community resources, said Denise Weekly, head of the planning committee.
Weekly said other activities include performances from the Stearns County Pachanga Society Quartet, student bands, Pacer Puppets, advocates for people with disabilities and a tae kwon do demonstration.
“Our event is to celebrate different cultures in our community and schools,” Weekly said. “We want it to be really inclusive of (what) the district and community have to offer.”
Sponsored by the Sauk Rapids-Rice school district, the free event will be 5:30-8:30 p.m. Friday at Mississippi Heights Elementary School, 1003 Fourth St. S, Sauk Rapids.
Letter: Enforce rules equally on all people living here
Letter: Enforce rules equally on all people living here
By Tom Zieglmeier • St. Cloud • April 18, 2010
Comments(36)
I respond to the April 11 letter “Fairness is not the same as special treatment.” It states “we do claim that the qualities of being American are fairness and justice.”
So shouldn’t the rules that make this a great country be fairly imposed and observed by all?
I attended St. Cloud Technical High School commencements in 2007 and 2009. I was very disappointed at all the shouting and noise after many of the Somali graduates’ names were announced. Yes, there were a few other rule breakers. However most infractions came from the Somalis.
As a father I wanted to hear my children’s names announced, but that was difficult. The school district sent rules for a quiet, dignified commencement ahead of time and announced several times in numerous languages to be quiet. It was obvious there were certain groups that felt those rules did not apply to them.
The rules of this country should be obeyed by all the people who choose to live here
By Tom Zieglmeier • St. Cloud • April 18, 2010
Comments(36)
I respond to the April 11 letter “Fairness is not the same as special treatment.” It states “we do claim that the qualities of being American are fairness and justice.”
So shouldn’t the rules that make this a great country be fairly imposed and observed by all?
I attended St. Cloud Technical High School commencements in 2007 and 2009. I was very disappointed at all the shouting and noise after many of the Somali graduates’ names were announced. Yes, there were a few other rule breakers. However most infractions came from the Somalis.
As a father I wanted to hear my children’s names announced, but that was difficult. The school district sent rules for a quiet, dignified commencement ahead of time and announced several times in numerous languages to be quiet. It was obvious there were certain groups that felt those rules did not apply to them.
The rules of this country should be obeyed by all the people who choose to live here
Monday, April 19, 2010
St. Cloud restaurant inspectoins: Experience, education can make the difference
St. Cloud restaurant inspectoins: Experience, education can make the difference
By Kari Petrie • kpetrie@stcloudtimes.com • April 18, 2010
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employees at her namesake restaurant know everything better be in tiptop shape.
Her daughter Julie Bichler, who now owns Brigitte’s Cafe with her two brothers, says Schneider is a tougher critic than the health inspector. Her high standard of cleanliness is ingrained in a staff that has worked at the restaurant for decades.
“When Mother comes home, they really get cleaning,” Bichler said.
The staff at Brigitte’s prepares most of the food from scratch, making soups and roasting beef in their kitchen. St. Cloud Environmental Health Specialist Jim Schloegl said the cafe is one of the best in the city for keeping its food safe and restaurant clean.
“Their staff has been there a long time and a large number of their staff is family, so they have a lot more invested,” he said.
Schloegl is in charge of restaurant inspections for St. Cloud. Each year the St. Cloud Health & Inspections Department checks out dozens of conditions and procedures at more than 500 establishments, including restaurants, pools and lodging businesses.
SEARCH
St. Cloud restaurant inspections
Inspection reports from 2009.
Restaurant name AllAce Bar and GrillApplebee's Grill & BarArby's Restaurant #5575Asian HouseBarnes & Noble BooksellersBo Diddley's DeliBo Diddley's DowntownBonanza Steak HouseBook-em's BarBrigitte's CafeBuffalo Wild Wings Grill & BarByerly's Inc.Cafe NazionaceChina RestaurantCoborn's Superstore #2035Coborns's Centennial PlazaCold Stone CreameryCookie AdvantageCopper LanternCub Foods EastD. B. SearlesDairy QueenDominos PizzaDucks Pub & BilliardsEnergy Blend of St. CloudFair Trade CafeFive Guys Burgers and FriesGranite Bowl - 12 X S INCGranite Bowl SouthGranite City Food & BreweryGreat Dragon BuffetGreat Wall BuffetGreen Mill RestaurantGrizzly's RestaurantGround Round RestaurantHemsing's Deli & BakeryHissho Sushi @ Byerly'sHong Kong RestaurantHormud Daily Food RestaurantHouse of PizzaHowie's Bar & GrillING DIRECT Cafe'JK Flyers CafeJules BistroKhanh ExpressKentucky Fried ChickenLincoln DepotM.C.'s DugoutM.T.'s on 8th Bar & GrillMcCanns Food and BrewMcDonald's #5787McDonald's #6060McDonald's at McStopMcRudy's PubMeeting Grounds Coffee ShopMexican Village RestaurantMexican Village TooMi Famigilia RestaurantMichael's Steak & SeafoodMike's Deli ExpressMilio's SandwichesMinnesota Halal Meat & GroceryMogadishu Grocery & MeatMr. TwistyMunicipal Athletic ComplexNajax CafeNoodles & CompanyNorth Village Ashland MarketNorthwoods Candy EmporiumOld ChicagoPacific Wok Teriyaki GrillPanchero's Mexican GrillPanda Chinese RestaurantPanera Bread #1317Papa John'sPerkins RestaurantPizza Hut #13784Pok's Sakura Japanese RestauraPress Bar & CafePretzelmakerQdoba Mexican RestaurantRed CarpetRed Lobster Restaurant #493Rox Bar/Tavern on GermainSam's Club #8183Sawatdee Thai RestaurantShooter's SaloonShort Stop WestSodexo - Pizza Hut - SCSUSodexo - Wow Wingery - SCSUSodexo Einstein Bagels - SCSUSodexo FS - Atwood CenterSodexo FS - Burger KingSodexo- Quick Zone & FreshensSomali CafeSt Cloud Civic CenterSt Cloud Eagles ClubSubway - Wal MartSubway CentralTaco Bell #016822Taco Bell #4907Taco JohnsTGI Friday'sThe Chinese Phoenix ExpressThe New Bravo BurritosThe White HorseVal's Rapid ServVeranda LoungeVFW Post 428VFW Post 4847Viet Tien RestaurantWendy's Old Fashion HamburgersWhitney Ball Park ConcessionWhitney Rec.Center ConcessionsWhitney Senior Center
Created with Caspio
Source: St. Cloud Health and Inspections Department
Click here to load this Caspio Bridge DataPage.
The St. Cloud Times reviewed records for St. Cloud restaurant inspections conducted in 2009. A majority of those inspections turned up one or no critical violations.
A violation is considered critical if it is poses a higher risk of leading to food contamination or illness. Such violations include improper hand washing or refrigerators that don’t keep food cold enough.
Six restaurants had four or more critical violations. Most critical violations dealt with keeping meat and vegetables separated while in storage, properly sanitizing cooking surfaces and equipment and making sure the business had a certified food manager.
Noncritical violations are generally less serious and often relate to the physical condition of the building.
State law dictates how often inspections are done based on the risk level a restaurant is assigned. Risk levels are based on what types of food are served, what cooking processes take place on site and how long foods are kept once prepared. High-risk restaurants are inspected once a year, medium-risk restaurants are inspected once every 18 months and low-risk restaurants are inspected once every two years.
Culture of clean
Schloegl said Red Lobster also does a good job of keeping its food fresh and preparing it well, especially since seafood is key to the menu.
“That puts them into whole other realm,” he said. “If someone doesn’t do it well, people will get ill.”
Red Lobster General Manager Troy Turney said the restaurant has a culture of keeping things clean. The business has developed a routine and staff follow the systems.
“They have a commitment to it,” he said.
Whether a customer comes in at 11 a.m. or 4 p.m., they should have the same experience, Turney said.
When inspections take place, a staff member walks around with Schloegl to see what the issues are, Red Lobster Total Quality Manager Mandy Sedlak said. Anything that can be fixed immediately is, she said.
The restaurant will follow up with a letter to Schloegl, outlining changes that were made.
“They have the same goals as we do,” Sedlak said.
Bichler of Brigitte’s said having staff who have been around for decades helps. In addition to contributing a homey atmosphere, they feel personally invested in the restaurant, she said.
“These people have been with us forever and know what has to be done,” she said.
Any time an inspection has uncovered an area of concern, Bichler said, the department has been good to work with in getting them resolved. Brigitte’s is presented with a tougher inspection challenge because it’s in an older building, which requires more upkeep and monitoring of older equipment.
“It’s keeping up with it every day,” Bichler said.
The economy has caused a slip in the upkeep at some restaurants, Schloegl said. Operators of some restaurants try to keep food longer or cut staff hours so less cleaning is being done, he said.
Health Director Lisa Schreifels said she expected to see more restaurants close because of the economy.
“We haven’t seen that,” she said.
Education
Education is an important part of the inspection process, Schreifels said. Inspectors spend time educating restaurant owners about expectations and good food-handling practices.
When an inspector goes into a business, he or she asks about how food is prepared or how the business deals with employee illnesses. The inspection is an interactive process, Schreifels said.
That helps develop trust between inspectors and owners so they are more likely to call the city with questions. Schloegl said he works to make sure restaurants are fixing problems found during inspections and issues don’t become ongoing problems.
“Follow-up is the name of the game,” he said.
The department works closely with people looking to open new restaurants. How smoothly that first inspection goes can depend on how much experience that owner has. New owners who have spent their careers working in food service have a better understanding of what needs to be done, Schreifels said.
“If they have that (experience), that’s extremely helpful,” she said.
Someone entering the business for the first time doesn’t always fully understand the amount of cleaning that has to take place in a kitchen.
“Someone new to food service operations, they’re going to struggle more,” she said.
The education piece becomes especially important when working with immigrant populations.
Several of the St. Cloud restaurants with the most critical violations last year are operated by people who don’t speak English as their first language.
Dave Siegel, executive vice president of the Minnesota Restaurant Association, said such owners learned different ways to operate in their country of origin.
“Now they’re coming here and they have to change the way they do business, and that’s sometimes difficult,” he said.
But Schloegl said he still does education along with the inspections. If there is a language barrier, he sometimes demonstrates how to do things like wash dishes in the three-compartment sink. Sometimes an owner will ask another employee who is more fluent in English, or a trusted customer, to help, he said.
Siegel’s association teaches food safety classes in English, Spanish and occasionally Asian languages. But the classes aren’t available in every language, he said.
Somali Cafe owner Abdi Abukar had six critical violations during an inspection in July. During a follow-up inspection in August, he had just one critical violation, for not timing how long prepared food was allowed to sit out before throwing it out.
Abukar said he has made several renovations to his restaurant that will make it easier to maintain cleanliness, such as new countertops. One section of the cafe is closed for additional renovations.
After the work is done, he said he wants to work to expand his business and get more people coming into his restaurant.
“I am careful and do more cleaning,” he said.
Times staff writer Kirsti Marohn contributed to this report.
By Kari Petrie • kpetrie@stcloudtimes.com • April 18, 2010
Comments(30)Recommend(4)Print this page E-mail this article Share
employees at her namesake restaurant know everything better be in tiptop shape.
Her daughter Julie Bichler, who now owns Brigitte’s Cafe with her two brothers, says Schneider is a tougher critic than the health inspector. Her high standard of cleanliness is ingrained in a staff that has worked at the restaurant for decades.
“When Mother comes home, they really get cleaning,” Bichler said.
The staff at Brigitte’s prepares most of the food from scratch, making soups and roasting beef in their kitchen. St. Cloud Environmental Health Specialist Jim Schloegl said the cafe is one of the best in the city for keeping its food safe and restaurant clean.
“Their staff has been there a long time and a large number of their staff is family, so they have a lot more invested,” he said.
Schloegl is in charge of restaurant inspections for St. Cloud. Each year the St. Cloud Health & Inspections Department checks out dozens of conditions and procedures at more than 500 establishments, including restaurants, pools and lodging businesses.
SEARCH
St. Cloud restaurant inspections
Inspection reports from 2009.
Restaurant name AllAce Bar and GrillApplebee's Grill & BarArby's Restaurant #5575Asian HouseBarnes & Noble BooksellersBo Diddley's DeliBo Diddley's DowntownBonanza Steak HouseBook-em's BarBrigitte's CafeBuffalo Wild Wings Grill & BarByerly's Inc.Cafe NazionaceChina RestaurantCoborn's Superstore #2035Coborns's Centennial PlazaCold Stone CreameryCookie AdvantageCopper LanternCub Foods EastD. B. SearlesDairy QueenDominos PizzaDucks Pub & BilliardsEnergy Blend of St. CloudFair Trade CafeFive Guys Burgers and FriesGranite Bowl - 12 X S INCGranite Bowl SouthGranite City Food & BreweryGreat Dragon BuffetGreat Wall BuffetGreen Mill RestaurantGrizzly's RestaurantGround Round RestaurantHemsing's Deli & BakeryHissho Sushi @ Byerly'sHong Kong RestaurantHormud Daily Food RestaurantHouse of PizzaHowie's Bar & GrillING DIRECT Cafe'JK Flyers CafeJules BistroKhanh ExpressKentucky Fried ChickenLincoln DepotM.C.'s DugoutM.T.'s on 8th Bar & GrillMcCanns Food and BrewMcDonald's #5787McDonald's #6060McDonald's at McStopMcRudy's PubMeeting Grounds Coffee ShopMexican Village RestaurantMexican Village TooMi Famigilia RestaurantMichael's Steak & SeafoodMike's Deli ExpressMilio's SandwichesMinnesota Halal Meat & GroceryMogadishu Grocery & MeatMr. TwistyMunicipal Athletic ComplexNajax CafeNoodles & CompanyNorth Village Ashland MarketNorthwoods Candy EmporiumOld ChicagoPacific Wok Teriyaki GrillPanchero's Mexican GrillPanda Chinese RestaurantPanera Bread #1317Papa John'sPerkins RestaurantPizza Hut #13784Pok's Sakura Japanese RestauraPress Bar & CafePretzelmakerQdoba Mexican RestaurantRed CarpetRed Lobster Restaurant #493Rox Bar/Tavern on GermainSam's Club #8183Sawatdee Thai RestaurantShooter's SaloonShort Stop WestSodexo - Pizza Hut - SCSUSodexo - Wow Wingery - SCSUSodexo Einstein Bagels - SCSUSodexo FS - Atwood CenterSodexo FS - Burger KingSodexo- Quick Zone & FreshensSomali CafeSt Cloud Civic CenterSt Cloud Eagles ClubSubway - Wal MartSubway CentralTaco Bell #016822Taco Bell #4907Taco JohnsTGI Friday'sThe Chinese Phoenix ExpressThe New Bravo BurritosThe White HorseVal's Rapid ServVeranda LoungeVFW Post 428VFW Post 4847Viet Tien RestaurantWendy's Old Fashion HamburgersWhitney Ball Park ConcessionWhitney Rec.Center ConcessionsWhitney Senior Center
Created with Caspio
Source: St. Cloud Health and Inspections Department
Click here to load this Caspio Bridge DataPage.
The St. Cloud Times reviewed records for St. Cloud restaurant inspections conducted in 2009. A majority of those inspections turned up one or no critical violations.
A violation is considered critical if it is poses a higher risk of leading to food contamination or illness. Such violations include improper hand washing or refrigerators that don’t keep food cold enough.
Six restaurants had four or more critical violations. Most critical violations dealt with keeping meat and vegetables separated while in storage, properly sanitizing cooking surfaces and equipment and making sure the business had a certified food manager.
Noncritical violations are generally less serious and often relate to the physical condition of the building.
State law dictates how often inspections are done based on the risk level a restaurant is assigned. Risk levels are based on what types of food are served, what cooking processes take place on site and how long foods are kept once prepared. High-risk restaurants are inspected once a year, medium-risk restaurants are inspected once every 18 months and low-risk restaurants are inspected once every two years.
Culture of clean
Schloegl said Red Lobster also does a good job of keeping its food fresh and preparing it well, especially since seafood is key to the menu.
“That puts them into whole other realm,” he said. “If someone doesn’t do it well, people will get ill.”
Red Lobster General Manager Troy Turney said the restaurant has a culture of keeping things clean. The business has developed a routine and staff follow the systems.
“They have a commitment to it,” he said.
Whether a customer comes in at 11 a.m. or 4 p.m., they should have the same experience, Turney said.
When inspections take place, a staff member walks around with Schloegl to see what the issues are, Red Lobster Total Quality Manager Mandy Sedlak said. Anything that can be fixed immediately is, she said.
The restaurant will follow up with a letter to Schloegl, outlining changes that were made.
“They have the same goals as we do,” Sedlak said.
Bichler of Brigitte’s said having staff who have been around for decades helps. In addition to contributing a homey atmosphere, they feel personally invested in the restaurant, she said.
“These people have been with us forever and know what has to be done,” she said.
Any time an inspection has uncovered an area of concern, Bichler said, the department has been good to work with in getting them resolved. Brigitte’s is presented with a tougher inspection challenge because it’s in an older building, which requires more upkeep and monitoring of older equipment.
“It’s keeping up with it every day,” Bichler said.
The economy has caused a slip in the upkeep at some restaurants, Schloegl said. Operators of some restaurants try to keep food longer or cut staff hours so less cleaning is being done, he said.
Health Director Lisa Schreifels said she expected to see more restaurants close because of the economy.
“We haven’t seen that,” she said.
Education
Education is an important part of the inspection process, Schreifels said. Inspectors spend time educating restaurant owners about expectations and good food-handling practices.
When an inspector goes into a business, he or she asks about how food is prepared or how the business deals with employee illnesses. The inspection is an interactive process, Schreifels said.
That helps develop trust between inspectors and owners so they are more likely to call the city with questions. Schloegl said he works to make sure restaurants are fixing problems found during inspections and issues don’t become ongoing problems.
“Follow-up is the name of the game,” he said.
The department works closely with people looking to open new restaurants. How smoothly that first inspection goes can depend on how much experience that owner has. New owners who have spent their careers working in food service have a better understanding of what needs to be done, Schreifels said.
“If they have that (experience), that’s extremely helpful,” she said.
Someone entering the business for the first time doesn’t always fully understand the amount of cleaning that has to take place in a kitchen.
“Someone new to food service operations, they’re going to struggle more,” she said.
The education piece becomes especially important when working with immigrant populations.
Several of the St. Cloud restaurants with the most critical violations last year are operated by people who don’t speak English as their first language.
Dave Siegel, executive vice president of the Minnesota Restaurant Association, said such owners learned different ways to operate in their country of origin.
“Now they’re coming here and they have to change the way they do business, and that’s sometimes difficult,” he said.
But Schloegl said he still does education along with the inspections. If there is a language barrier, he sometimes demonstrates how to do things like wash dishes in the three-compartment sink. Sometimes an owner will ask another employee who is more fluent in English, or a trusted customer, to help, he said.
Siegel’s association teaches food safety classes in English, Spanish and occasionally Asian languages. But the classes aren’t available in every language, he said.
Somali Cafe owner Abdi Abukar had six critical violations during an inspection in July. During a follow-up inspection in August, he had just one critical violation, for not timing how long prepared food was allowed to sit out before throwing it out.
Abukar said he has made several renovations to his restaurant that will make it easier to maintain cleanliness, such as new countertops. One section of the cafe is closed for additional renovations.
After the work is done, he said he wants to work to expand his business and get more people coming into his restaurant.
“I am careful and do more cleaning,” he said.
Times staff writer Kirsti Marohn contributed to this report.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
St. Cloud mother arrested after child's death
St. Cloud mother arrested after child's death
By David Unze • dunze@stcloudtimes.com • April 17, 2010
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Twitter FarkIt Type Size A A A A 31-year-old St. Cloud woman has been arrested and could be charged with murder in the death of her 22-month-old son, police said.
Nayachuol Lungdicok Poch was arrested Friday, four days after her son died. An autopsy by the Ramsey County Medical Examiner’s office showed the boy died from blunt-force trauma, according to St. Cloud Police Lt. James Mortenson.
Police arrested Poch about 4:50 p.m. at her residence, 1538 Sixth Ave. S. She was taken to Stearns County Jail, where she will remain until her first court appearance. She could be charged as early as Monday, according to police.
Police went to the apartment at 2:21 p.m. Monday after Poch called to report that a child there was unresponsive, Mortenson said. Emergency workers attempted to revive the boy, but he was pronounced dead at St. Cloud Hospital.
No trauma was obvious when medical personnel were trying to revive the boy, Mortenson said, but evidence of trauma was discovered during the autopsy.
“The child had a substantial injury that caused his death,” Mortenson said.
Poch was the only adult living at the apartment with her three children, Mortenson said.
Poch’s two other children, both younger than 5, were placed in protective custody, Mortenson said.
Poch, a native of Sudan, had recently moved to St. Cloud.
Police were looking into whether there were previous calls to her apartment.
“We’re backtracking all the history on that,” he said.
Police executed at least one search warrant at the residence while investigating the death, Mortenson said.
By David Unze • dunze@stcloudtimes.com • April 17, 2010
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Twitter FarkIt Type Size A A A A 31-year-old St. Cloud woman has been arrested and could be charged with murder in the death of her 22-month-old son, police said.
Nayachuol Lungdicok Poch was arrested Friday, four days after her son died. An autopsy by the Ramsey County Medical Examiner’s office showed the boy died from blunt-force trauma, according to St. Cloud Police Lt. James Mortenson.
Police arrested Poch about 4:50 p.m. at her residence, 1538 Sixth Ave. S. She was taken to Stearns County Jail, where she will remain until her first court appearance. She could be charged as early as Monday, according to police.
Police went to the apartment at 2:21 p.m. Monday after Poch called to report that a child there was unresponsive, Mortenson said. Emergency workers attempted to revive the boy, but he was pronounced dead at St. Cloud Hospital.
No trauma was obvious when medical personnel were trying to revive the boy, Mortenson said, but evidence of trauma was discovered during the autopsy.
“The child had a substantial injury that caused his death,” Mortenson said.
Poch was the only adult living at the apartment with her three children, Mortenson said.
Poch’s two other children, both younger than 5, were placed in protective custody, Mortenson said.
Poch, a native of Sudan, had recently moved to St. Cloud.
Police were looking into whether there were previous calls to her apartment.
“We’re backtracking all the history on that,” he said.
Police executed at least one search warrant at the residence while investigating the death, Mortenson said.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Our view: District, release files in Muslim accusations
Our view: District, release files in Muslim accusations
Times Editorial Board • April 15, 2010
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Twitter FarkIt Type Size A A A St. Cloud school district, show residents what you did — and do it soon.
That's the simple-but-critical next step for the district in answering accusations from a Muslim advocacy group that the district did not adequately respond to complaints from Somali Muslim students about harassment and worse at Apollo High School.
Having talked with five top district administrators and having read assessments from the Council on American-Islamic Relations Minnesota, this Editorial Board sees both sides as accusing each other of misleading the public and/or not providing the full story.
District leaders, fair or not, your best approach is to show the public what you did (and when) with regard to:
Two students throwing food and verbally abusing Somali Muslim students during lunch. CAIR-MN indicates it heard about this on May 11.
Two other students throwing a marker at and trying to attack one or more Somali Muslim students. Students told CAIR-MN about this May 15.
A Somali Muslim student says an Apollo administrator, during a meeting with this student and two students accused of harassing her, allowed the two students to swear and yell at the Somali Muslim student but told that student to be silent. CAIR-MN cites a May 15 date.
Four students accuse a teacher of handing other students air freshener and instructing them to spray the room when Somali Muslim students entered. CAIR-MN dates this event on Nov. 18.
Five Somali Muslim students report a bus driver left about 30 Somali Muslim students waiting at a stop on several occasions and telling them "catch me if you can." The students report they often have to find other ways to get to school.
CAIR-MN says a Somali Muslim student told it on Feb. 13 that a World History teacher made disparaging comments about Islam and Somalis in class. Other students report the teacher uses biased, inaccurate or incomplete information about Somalis, Islam and Muslims, plus the teacher will not let Somali Muslim students present their view.
Four female Somali Muslim students tell CAIR-MN in February that two students taunted them with bacon and insults. The two repeat the behavior March 16, which is reported to staff.
Somali Muslim students tell CAIR-MN a teacher said, "Ugh, the Somalis are back" after a religious holiday.
District leaders, you told us April 6 that you knew of and had addressed virtually all incidents. It's time to prove it.
Yes, we realize you must adhere to demanding privacy laws. But these are serious claims, and they should have documentation showing district actions. Indeed, you said you already had investigated many of them.
Making public dated, procedural narratives from each effort (and not identifying specific students and employees) will clarify these two clouded perspectives.
Use your Web site; use these pages. Just make them public.
Times Editorial Board • April 15, 2010
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Twitter FarkIt Type Size A A A St. Cloud school district, show residents what you did — and do it soon.
That's the simple-but-critical next step for the district in answering accusations from a Muslim advocacy group that the district did not adequately respond to complaints from Somali Muslim students about harassment and worse at Apollo High School.
Having talked with five top district administrators and having read assessments from the Council on American-Islamic Relations Minnesota, this Editorial Board sees both sides as accusing each other of misleading the public and/or not providing the full story.
District leaders, fair or not, your best approach is to show the public what you did (and when) with regard to:
Two students throwing food and verbally abusing Somali Muslim students during lunch. CAIR-MN indicates it heard about this on May 11.
Two other students throwing a marker at and trying to attack one or more Somali Muslim students. Students told CAIR-MN about this May 15.
A Somali Muslim student says an Apollo administrator, during a meeting with this student and two students accused of harassing her, allowed the two students to swear and yell at the Somali Muslim student but told that student to be silent. CAIR-MN cites a May 15 date.
Four students accuse a teacher of handing other students air freshener and instructing them to spray the room when Somali Muslim students entered. CAIR-MN dates this event on Nov. 18.
Five Somali Muslim students report a bus driver left about 30 Somali Muslim students waiting at a stop on several occasions and telling them "catch me if you can." The students report they often have to find other ways to get to school.
CAIR-MN says a Somali Muslim student told it on Feb. 13 that a World History teacher made disparaging comments about Islam and Somalis in class. Other students report the teacher uses biased, inaccurate or incomplete information about Somalis, Islam and Muslims, plus the teacher will not let Somali Muslim students present their view.
Four female Somali Muslim students tell CAIR-MN in February that two students taunted them with bacon and insults. The two repeat the behavior March 16, which is reported to staff.
Somali Muslim students tell CAIR-MN a teacher said, "Ugh, the Somalis are back" after a religious holiday.
District leaders, you told us April 6 that you knew of and had addressed virtually all incidents. It's time to prove it.
Yes, we realize you must adhere to demanding privacy laws. But these are serious claims, and they should have documentation showing district actions. Indeed, you said you already had investigated many of them.
Making public dated, procedural narratives from each effort (and not identifying specific students and employees) will clarify these two clouded perspectives.
Use your Web site; use these pages. Just make them public.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
SCSU session on Islam aims for tolerance
SCSU session on Islam aims for tolerance
By David Unze • dunze@stcloudtimes.com • April 13, 2010
Comments(73)
The event, which is scheduled for noon in the Cascade Room of Atwood Memorial Center, is in response to recent instances of anti-Muslim activity in St. Cloud.
The keynote speaker for the event is Dr. Jamal Badawi, a scholar of Islam, who will speak about the concept of coexistence among different religious traditions from an Islamic perspective. The event is free and open to the public.
Recent anti-Muslim incidents include the posting in several locations around St. Cloud of drawings that depicted sexually explicit and obscene activity, the prophet Mohammed and a swastika, among other things.
"Recent incidents such as the hateful cartoons posted around St. Cloud show the need for Islamic education and understanding," said Mohammed Hatim Kareem, St. Cloud State MSA president, in a news release. "We hope to bring together people of all faiths and talk about how we can live together peacefully."
In late March, the Council on American-Islamic Relations asked the U.S. Department of Education to investigate what it calls a hostile learning environment for Muslims in St. Cloud and other Minnesota schools.
The group claimed there is a growing number of instances in St. Cloud schools in which Somali and Muslim students are being harassed and discriminated against. Some of the incidents took place at Apollo and Technical high schools, according to the group's complaint to the Department of Education.
By David Unze • dunze@stcloudtimes.com • April 13, 2010
Comments(73)
The event, which is scheduled for noon in the Cascade Room of Atwood Memorial Center, is in response to recent instances of anti-Muslim activity in St. Cloud.
The keynote speaker for the event is Dr. Jamal Badawi, a scholar of Islam, who will speak about the concept of coexistence among different religious traditions from an Islamic perspective. The event is free and open to the public.
Recent anti-Muslim incidents include the posting in several locations around St. Cloud of drawings that depicted sexually explicit and obscene activity, the prophet Mohammed and a swastika, among other things.
"Recent incidents such as the hateful cartoons posted around St. Cloud show the need for Islamic education and understanding," said Mohammed Hatim Kareem, St. Cloud State MSA president, in a news release. "We hope to bring together people of all faiths and talk about how we can live together peacefully."
In late March, the Council on American-Islamic Relations asked the U.S. Department of Education to investigate what it calls a hostile learning environment for Muslims in St. Cloud and other Minnesota schools.
The group claimed there is a growing number of instances in St. Cloud schools in which Somali and Muslim students are being harassed and discriminated against. Some of the incidents took place at Apollo and Technical high schools, according to the group's complaint to the Department of Education.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Letter: Don't let hatred of a few ruin acceptance in area
Letter: Don't let hatred of a few ruin acceptance in area
By Linda Kaufmann • Pillager • April 5, 2010
Comments(194)Recommend
To my American Indian friends, I am sorry.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, my white ancestors abducted tens of thousands of African people. To my African American friends, I am sorry.
In the 19th century, my white ancestors excluded Mexican-American citizens from the full rights afforded other American citizens. To my Latino friends, I am sorry.
In the 20th century, my white ancestors created federal laws to discriminate against and detain Chinese and Japanese residents. To my Asian friends, I am sorry.
Today in the St. Cloud area, a few citizens are expressing messages of hatred and intolerance toward Somali Americans.
To my Muslim friends, I am sorry.
To say I am sorry does not come close to making up for the acts of exclusion and racism my friends and neighbors of color have endured.
To my white friends and neighbors, I beg of you not to tolerate this fear-mongering and bigotry in Central Minnesota.
To my Muslim friends, please know that appalling acts like these are few and far between.
Please accept this apology on behalf of the majority of us those who believe you are wonderful, you are welcome and that you add social, moral, civic and cultural richness to this community.
By Linda Kaufmann • Pillager • April 5, 2010
Comments(194)Recommend
To my American Indian friends, I am sorry.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, my white ancestors abducted tens of thousands of African people. To my African American friends, I am sorry.
In the 19th century, my white ancestors excluded Mexican-American citizens from the full rights afforded other American citizens. To my Latino friends, I am sorry.
In the 20th century, my white ancestors created federal laws to discriminate against and detain Chinese and Japanese residents. To my Asian friends, I am sorry.
Today in the St. Cloud area, a few citizens are expressing messages of hatred and intolerance toward Somali Americans.
To my Muslim friends, I am sorry.
To say I am sorry does not come close to making up for the acts of exclusion and racism my friends and neighbors of color have endured.
To my white friends and neighbors, I beg of you not to tolerate this fear-mongering and bigotry in Central Minnesota.
To my Muslim friends, please know that appalling acts like these are few and far between.
Please accept this apology on behalf of the majority of us those who believe you are wonderful, you are welcome and that you add social, moral, civic and cultural richness to this community.
Friday, April 2, 2010
U Muslim students host Islam Awareness Week
U Muslim students host Islam Awareness Week
The former Somali prime minister visited the campus on Tuesday.
Published: 04/01/2010
By Ibrahim Hirisi
Islam Awareness Week, which concludes Friday, has been at the University of Minnesota this week and aims to eradicate common misconceptions about Islam and Muslims in western culture.
Muslim students at the University initiated Islam Awareness Week in 1998 with the goal of educating non-Muslim people.
Former Somali Prime Minister Ali Khalif Galaydh said many people in the world view Muslims as radicals, against the west and violators of human rights. Galaydh spoke Tuesday at the University, showing a documentary that dealt with a backlash to Somali immigration in Maine and a conflict between neo-Nazi groups and human rights advocates.
Journalism professor Catherine Squires said a lot of these stereotypes grow from the way the western media depicts Islam and Muslims. The predominant images the media report are sensational, such as women being beaten or abused, Squires said.
“You always hear the worst case scenario,” she said.
However, with events that raise awareness and remove misconception, Galaydh said the future of Muslims in the western societies is hopeful.
“I think the event will make an enormous difference,” he said.
Through a series of lectures, documentaries and other activities, the event is intended to convey that the Quran should be the main source of information on Islam for non-Muslims.
“We tell non-Muslims not to look at what Muslims do, because they have good and bad ones. I think the best way to understand Islam is through the Quran.
Islam Awareness Week committee member and former Somali Student Association vice president Abdullahi Adam said it is their task as Muslims and students on campus to clear up those misconceptions.
“Our mission here is to give the correct information,” Adam said.
This year’s theme is “Islam through a new lens” which political science major and a committee member for the event Mariam Mahmood interpreted it as looking at Islam through a different prospective than the popular images in the media.
Many students — mostly non-Muslims — who are interested in learning about Islam and Muslims turned out for the event with enthusiasm, Mahmood said.
Al-Madinah Cultural Center, Muslim Student Association and Somali Student Association hosted the event.
The former Somali prime minister visited the campus on Tuesday.
Published: 04/01/2010
By Ibrahim Hirisi
Islam Awareness Week, which concludes Friday, has been at the University of Minnesota this week and aims to eradicate common misconceptions about Islam and Muslims in western culture.
Muslim students at the University initiated Islam Awareness Week in 1998 with the goal of educating non-Muslim people.
Former Somali Prime Minister Ali Khalif Galaydh said many people in the world view Muslims as radicals, against the west and violators of human rights. Galaydh spoke Tuesday at the University, showing a documentary that dealt with a backlash to Somali immigration in Maine and a conflict between neo-Nazi groups and human rights advocates.
Journalism professor Catherine Squires said a lot of these stereotypes grow from the way the western media depicts Islam and Muslims. The predominant images the media report are sensational, such as women being beaten or abused, Squires said.
“You always hear the worst case scenario,” she said.
However, with events that raise awareness and remove misconception, Galaydh said the future of Muslims in the western societies is hopeful.
“I think the event will make an enormous difference,” he said.
Through a series of lectures, documentaries and other activities, the event is intended to convey that the Quran should be the main source of information on Islam for non-Muslims.
“We tell non-Muslims not to look at what Muslims do, because they have good and bad ones. I think the best way to understand Islam is through the Quran.
Islam Awareness Week committee member and former Somali Student Association vice president Abdullahi Adam said it is their task as Muslims and students on campus to clear up those misconceptions.
“Our mission here is to give the correct information,” Adam said.
This year’s theme is “Islam through a new lens” which political science major and a committee member for the event Mariam Mahmood interpreted it as looking at Islam through a different prospective than the popular images in the media.
Many students — mostly non-Muslims — who are interested in learning about Islam and Muslims turned out for the event with enthusiasm, Mahmood said.
Al-Madinah Cultural Center, Muslim Student Association and Somali Student Association hosted the event.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Muslims make statement in support of students
Muslims make statement in support of students
By Dave Aeikens • daeikens@stcloudtimes.com • March 30, 2010
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Those at the rally say the school staff is not doing enough to keep Muslim students from being harassed and in some cases are contributing to it. The rally comes less than a week after a Minnesota Muslim civil rights group announced it has asked the U.S. Department of Education to investigate alleged incidents that they say create a hostile learning environment for Somali and Muslim students at Apollo and Technical high schools.
"The kids we are sending here have a hard time in school," said Nimo Mohamed, who was holding a sign on a boulevard near 44th Avenue North.
People at the rally chanted and held signs that said "Discrimination is intolerable" or "District 742 must integrate" among others. Almost all of the people at the rally were adults. One student was there. Most cars drove by and ignored the rally. A few people honked from their cars. One person stopped and dropped off a signed letter suggesting the Muslims be more appreciative of what they have in the United States.
St. Cloud police said there were no incidents. At one point during the day, two people stood about 100 yards from the rally holding an American flag and a sign, police said.
As some St. Cloud Muslims rallied outside Apollo, others said that while there are some things that need improvement in treatment of Muslims within St. Cloud schools, most of the staff are professionals and there are better ways than rallies to solve the issues.
"They have a right to demonstrate but they have to understand what they are demonstrating. They do not speak for all aspects of the Somali community," said Abdiraman Muhamed, a member of a Somali elder board. The Somali elder board met Sunday night and decided it does not support the rally, Abdiraman Muhamed said.
Semya Hakim, coordinator of family and staff of color caucus at St. Cloud State University, was among those at the rally.
"I am very concerned about the way Somali and other Muslims students are treated in St. Cloud schools," Hakim said.
School Superintendent Steve Jordahl said the district responds appropriately to every complaint and act of bullying against any student. He disputes that staff are not doing enough or are condoning harassment of Muslim students.
"I think that allegation would be false," Jordahl said.
He said in his almost two years in the district he has not received any complaint about a specific staff member nor has any staff member been disciplined for inappropriate behavior toward Muslim students.
The district worked to have a normal day in school Monday. Staff has been instructed to be more visible in the halls to keep an eye on any bullying that might occur.
Federal complaint
The district is investigating a series of claims from the Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations. Jordahl said the district acknowledges one incident in which Muslim students were teased and harassed. Two boys who are white were suspended.
The district also acknowledged that some Somali students have been called "towel heads." He said students who used those terms were disciplined. The district has been unable so far to substantiate other allegations, including one that pork bacon was shoved in the face of Muslim girls.
The investigations are continuing, Jordahl said. He said some incidents either are old or did not happen in the way they are described in the letter CAIR sent to the federal government. CAIR on Monday would not provide to the St. Cloud Times the names of the people involved in the alleged incidents.
CAIR leaders met with school district officials Friday. On Monday, the group agreed to release a joint statement with the district to the community of St. Cloud saying that the two parties are working together to make schools safe, said Taneeza Islam, civil rights director for Minnesota CAIR.
Minnesota CAIR also plans to contact the U.S. Department of Education to explain how the civil rights group and the school district have worked together, Minnesota CAIR President Lori Saroya said
Rally for peace
The rally Monday in front of Apollo started about 8:30 a.m. and ended by 1 p.m.
Mohamoud Mohamed said some district staff and some administrators are allowing conflict and discrimination to continue in the schools. He mentioned specific incidents but would not or could not identify the people involved.
Mohamed said the school district's response that it has no record of these incidents and that it wants to work together with the Muslim community is not enough anymore.
"Who is mishandling things? Find it out, correct it and we will have peace," Mohamoud Mohamed said. He said students are afraid to go to school.
Not all in St. Cloud Somali community agree that having the rally was a good idea. Abdiraman Muhamed, a member of the Somali elder board, said Somali Muslims need to first sit down with the school district and explain what the problems are. He said most of the teachers in St. Cloud school district are professionals and serve the Muslim students well. He said most of the children are treated fairly but some have a problem.
"We have two or three (teachers) who are racists," Abdiraman Mohamed said. He has been working with the school district to address some of the issues in the schools.
Jordahl said St. Cloud district has youth summits, parent communications and community meetings to keep harmony in schools. He said administrators will talk more about the issue in a meeting today.
"We're doing more than most any place. We are doing some incredible things to be proactive," Jordahl said.
Technical High School administrators met with Muslim parents Monday morning to talk about some of the concerns involving students in that school. A similar meeting will be planned for Apollo, Jordahl said. Apollo High School Principal Charlie Eisenreich announced plans of several ongoing or new initiatives at the school that focus on student understanding and respect.
School board member Jerry Von Korff, who met with rally organizers this weekend, said the rally does not do anything to help solve some of the issues going on in the schools.
Von Korff said Mohamoud Mohamed is more interested in standing in front of a bunch of people than working to make things better.
"He has not articulated to me any vision that his main goal is to solve problems. There are a lot of Somalis in our community that are very interested in solving problems," Von Korff said.
By Dave Aeikens • daeikens@stcloudtimes.com • March 30, 2010
Comments(426)Recommend(8)Print this page E-mail this article Share
Those at the rally say the school staff is not doing enough to keep Muslim students from being harassed and in some cases are contributing to it. The rally comes less than a week after a Minnesota Muslim civil rights group announced it has asked the U.S. Department of Education to investigate alleged incidents that they say create a hostile learning environment for Somali and Muslim students at Apollo and Technical high schools.
"The kids we are sending here have a hard time in school," said Nimo Mohamed, who was holding a sign on a boulevard near 44th Avenue North.
People at the rally chanted and held signs that said "Discrimination is intolerable" or "District 742 must integrate" among others. Almost all of the people at the rally were adults. One student was there. Most cars drove by and ignored the rally. A few people honked from their cars. One person stopped and dropped off a signed letter suggesting the Muslims be more appreciative of what they have in the United States.
St. Cloud police said there were no incidents. At one point during the day, two people stood about 100 yards from the rally holding an American flag and a sign, police said.
As some St. Cloud Muslims rallied outside Apollo, others said that while there are some things that need improvement in treatment of Muslims within St. Cloud schools, most of the staff are professionals and there are better ways than rallies to solve the issues.
"They have a right to demonstrate but they have to understand what they are demonstrating. They do not speak for all aspects of the Somali community," said Abdiraman Muhamed, a member of a Somali elder board. The Somali elder board met Sunday night and decided it does not support the rally, Abdiraman Muhamed said.
Semya Hakim, coordinator of family and staff of color caucus at St. Cloud State University, was among those at the rally.
"I am very concerned about the way Somali and other Muslims students are treated in St. Cloud schools," Hakim said.
School Superintendent Steve Jordahl said the district responds appropriately to every complaint and act of bullying against any student. He disputes that staff are not doing enough or are condoning harassment of Muslim students.
"I think that allegation would be false," Jordahl said.
He said in his almost two years in the district he has not received any complaint about a specific staff member nor has any staff member been disciplined for inappropriate behavior toward Muslim students.
The district worked to have a normal day in school Monday. Staff has been instructed to be more visible in the halls to keep an eye on any bullying that might occur.
Federal complaint
The district is investigating a series of claims from the Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations. Jordahl said the district acknowledges one incident in which Muslim students were teased and harassed. Two boys who are white were suspended.
The district also acknowledged that some Somali students have been called "towel heads." He said students who used those terms were disciplined. The district has been unable so far to substantiate other allegations, including one that pork bacon was shoved in the face of Muslim girls.
The investigations are continuing, Jordahl said. He said some incidents either are old or did not happen in the way they are described in the letter CAIR sent to the federal government. CAIR on Monday would not provide to the St. Cloud Times the names of the people involved in the alleged incidents.
CAIR leaders met with school district officials Friday. On Monday, the group agreed to release a joint statement with the district to the community of St. Cloud saying that the two parties are working together to make schools safe, said Taneeza Islam, civil rights director for Minnesota CAIR.
Minnesota CAIR also plans to contact the U.S. Department of Education to explain how the civil rights group and the school district have worked together, Minnesota CAIR President Lori Saroya said
Rally for peace
The rally Monday in front of Apollo started about 8:30 a.m. and ended by 1 p.m.
Mohamoud Mohamed said some district staff and some administrators are allowing conflict and discrimination to continue in the schools. He mentioned specific incidents but would not or could not identify the people involved.
Mohamed said the school district's response that it has no record of these incidents and that it wants to work together with the Muslim community is not enough anymore.
"Who is mishandling things? Find it out, correct it and we will have peace," Mohamoud Mohamed said. He said students are afraid to go to school.
Not all in St. Cloud Somali community agree that having the rally was a good idea. Abdiraman Muhamed, a member of the Somali elder board, said Somali Muslims need to first sit down with the school district and explain what the problems are. He said most of the teachers in St. Cloud school district are professionals and serve the Muslim students well. He said most of the children are treated fairly but some have a problem.
"We have two or three (teachers) who are racists," Abdiraman Mohamed said. He has been working with the school district to address some of the issues in the schools.
Jordahl said St. Cloud district has youth summits, parent communications and community meetings to keep harmony in schools. He said administrators will talk more about the issue in a meeting today.
"We're doing more than most any place. We are doing some incredible things to be proactive," Jordahl said.
Technical High School administrators met with Muslim parents Monday morning to talk about some of the concerns involving students in that school. A similar meeting will be planned for Apollo, Jordahl said. Apollo High School Principal Charlie Eisenreich announced plans of several ongoing or new initiatives at the school that focus on student understanding and respect.
School board member Jerry Von Korff, who met with rally organizers this weekend, said the rally does not do anything to help solve some of the issues going on in the schools.
Von Korff said Mohamoud Mohamed is more interested in standing in front of a bunch of people than working to make things better.
"He has not articulated to me any vision that his main goal is to solve problems. There are a lot of Somalis in our community that are very interested in solving problems," Von Korff said.
Rally at Apollo supports Muslim students in St. Cloud schools
Rally at Apollo supports Muslim students in St. Cloud schools
By Dave Aeikens • daeikens@stcloudtimes.com • March 29, 2010
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Buzz up!Twitter FarkIt Type Size A A A Next Page1| 2Previous PageMore than two dozen Muslims and their supporters rallied for peace Monday across from Apollo High School to show support for students who attend the St. Cloud schools.
The rally was on public property on the west side of 44th Avenue North across from Apollo. It went from about 8:30 a.m. and ended before 1 p.m., said Mohamoud Mohamad, executive director of the St. Cloud Area Somali Salvation Organization and the organizer of the rally.
The rally ended about two hours before it was scheduled to end. Mohamed said that was because people had been there a long time, there were no easily accessible bathrooms and the wind made it chilly.
“We transmitted the message we intended to transmit,” Mohamed said.
Those at the rally say the school staff is not doing enough to keep Muslim students from being harassed and in some cases is contributing to it. The rally comes less than a week after a Minnesota Muslim civil rights group announced it asked the U.S. Department of Education to investigate a series of allegations that could create a hostile learning environment for Somali and Muslim students at Apollo and Technical high schools.
“The kids we are sending here, have a hard time in school,” said Nimo Mohamed, who was holding a sign on a boulevard near 44th Avenue North.
People at the rally chanted and held signs that said “Discrimination is intolerable” or “St. Cloud school district must integrate” among others. Almost all of the people at the rally were adults. One student was there. Most cars drove by and ignored the rally. A few people honked from their cars. One person stopped and dropped off a signed letter suggesting Somalis be more appreciative of what they have in the United States. Toward the end of the rally, two people appeared about 100 yards from the rally. One person held an American flag and another held a sign, said Sgt. Marty Sayre of the St. Cloud Police Department. There were no incidents the entire time of the rally, Sayre said.
Superintendent Steve Jordahl said the district responds appropriately to every complaint and act of bullying against any student. He disputes that staff are not doing enough or are condoning harassment of Muslim students.
“I think that allegation would be false.” Jordahl said.
He said in his almost two years in the district he has not received any complaints about a specific staff member nor has any staff member been disciplined for inappropriate behavior toward Muslim students.
The district is investigating a series of claims from the Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations. Minnesota CAIR has asked the U.S. Department if Education to investigate possible discrimination in St. Cloud and Owatonna.
Jordahl said the district acknowledges one incident in which Muslim students were teased and harassed. Two boys who are white were suspended. The district has been unable to substantiate other allegations including one that pork bacon was shoved in the face of Muslim girls. The investigations are continuing, he said,
Semya Hakim, coordinator of family and staff of color caucus at St. Cloud State University was among those at the rally.
“I am very concerned about the way Somali and other Muslims students are treated in St. Cloud schools,” Hakim said.
By Dave Aeikens • daeikens@stcloudtimes.com • March 29, 2010
Comments(394)Recommend(12)Print this page E-mail this article Share
Del.icio.us Facebook Digg Reddit Newsvine
Buzz up!Twitter FarkIt Type Size A A A Next Page1| 2Previous PageMore than two dozen Muslims and their supporters rallied for peace Monday across from Apollo High School to show support for students who attend the St. Cloud schools.
The rally was on public property on the west side of 44th Avenue North across from Apollo. It went from about 8:30 a.m. and ended before 1 p.m., said Mohamoud Mohamad, executive director of the St. Cloud Area Somali Salvation Organization and the organizer of the rally.
The rally ended about two hours before it was scheduled to end. Mohamed said that was because people had been there a long time, there were no easily accessible bathrooms and the wind made it chilly.
“We transmitted the message we intended to transmit,” Mohamed said.
Those at the rally say the school staff is not doing enough to keep Muslim students from being harassed and in some cases is contributing to it. The rally comes less than a week after a Minnesota Muslim civil rights group announced it asked the U.S. Department of Education to investigate a series of allegations that could create a hostile learning environment for Somali and Muslim students at Apollo and Technical high schools.
“The kids we are sending here, have a hard time in school,” said Nimo Mohamed, who was holding a sign on a boulevard near 44th Avenue North.
People at the rally chanted and held signs that said “Discrimination is intolerable” or “St. Cloud school district must integrate” among others. Almost all of the people at the rally were adults. One student was there. Most cars drove by and ignored the rally. A few people honked from their cars. One person stopped and dropped off a signed letter suggesting Somalis be more appreciative of what they have in the United States. Toward the end of the rally, two people appeared about 100 yards from the rally. One person held an American flag and another held a sign, said Sgt. Marty Sayre of the St. Cloud Police Department. There were no incidents the entire time of the rally, Sayre said.
Superintendent Steve Jordahl said the district responds appropriately to every complaint and act of bullying against any student. He disputes that staff are not doing enough or are condoning harassment of Muslim students.
“I think that allegation would be false.” Jordahl said.
He said in his almost two years in the district he has not received any complaints about a specific staff member nor has any staff member been disciplined for inappropriate behavior toward Muslim students.
The district is investigating a series of claims from the Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations. Minnesota CAIR has asked the U.S. Department if Education to investigate possible discrimination in St. Cloud and Owatonna.
Jordahl said the district acknowledges one incident in which Muslim students were teased and harassed. Two boys who are white were suspended. The district has been unable to substantiate other allegations including one that pork bacon was shoved in the face of Muslim girls. The investigations are continuing, he said,
Semya Hakim, coordinator of family and staff of color caucus at St. Cloud State University was among those at the rally.
“I am very concerned about the way Somali and other Muslims students are treated in St. Cloud schools,” Hakim said.
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