A Court of Thorns of Roses Cover— Source: sarahjmaas.com
A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas has commanded significant attention in the literary community for several months. It has gained such immense popularity that an upcoming Hulu series adaptation is in the works. While fantasy is not my typical genre preference, at the urging of my sister, I opted to invest $14 in the audiobook version.
However, after six hours of listening, all I could say was: Huh?!
Unbeknownst to me, the audiobook has been divided into two separate six-hour segments. Setting aside the annoying attempt for a cash grab, I find myself uninterested in further engaging with “A Court of Thorns and Roses,” and here’s why:
Given the hype surrounding this book, my expectations were naturally high. The collective excitement in the reading community led me to anticipate a firm “girl-boss” protagonist navigating the enchanting world of the fairy realm, intertwined with an alluring enemies-to-lovers progression. The opening hour of the narrative initially aligns with these expectations, introducing us to Feyre, an 18-year-old supporting her family while engaging in a passionate relationship with Issac. Regrettably, the subsequent five hours of listening lack the substance one might anticipate.
As a result of accidentally slaying the fairy king’s acquaintance, Tamlin, Feyre is compelled to spend her days in the fairy realm alongside him. I repeat: Feyre is rewarded with a life of luxury despite her culpability in causing a death. This incongruity prompts my confusion. Additionally, the fairy king assumes the responsibility of feeding Feyre’s starving family on the condition that she remains exiled. Predictably, Feyre strives to escape at any given opportunity.
A particularly disconcerting juncture occurs towards the audiobook’s conclusion when Tamlin is required to partake in a power-related ritual, which entails him selecting someone to engage with intimately. Consent appears to be a superfluous consideration for a ruler. To shield Feyre from his feral tendencies, Tamlin confines her to her chamber—an injunction she inevitably defies. An exchange between Feyre and Tamlin ensues, raising unsettling concerns regarding potential non-consensual actions. It was at this point that my conviction solidified: this book would not garner a favorable rating. In the interest of equity, I am prepared to give an additional $14 to experience the second half of the audiobook, in the hopes of it improving. If the second half mirrors the first, “A Court of Thorns and Roses” will remain as a two-out-of-five-star book
by Pierre Young, Editor-in-Chief of The Metro Scoop Student Newspaper
Published on 9/6/2023
Cowabunga! The turtles are back in an inspired ‘Into the Spider-Verse’ animation, two years in the making. ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem’ is a fun-filled and surprisingly adventurous comic book film. Produced by Seth Rogen, directed by Jeff Rowe, and featuring the talented voices of actual teenagers portraying the turtles. I have seen the movie twice in theaters already, and I was impressed by the skilled voices throughout the film and the array of stars associated with the movie, including Jackie Chan, Ice Cube, Seth Rogen, John Cena, and Paul Rudd. The voices of the ninja turtles are introduced as Micah Abbey (Donatello), Sharon Brown Jr. (Michelangelo), Nicolas Cantu (Leonardo), and Brandy Noon (Raphael).
The film presents an original story explaining how the turtles remained underground during the years they were in hiding, with Splinter acting as their protective father figure. This is a narrative that has not been previously told, and what captivated me about this iteration of the turtles is that the actors reflect their generation by engaging in activities such as looking at smartphones at night, using Gen Z slang, and referencing pop culture. These elements incited laughter in the theater.
I had the privilege of attending a sneak preview of the movie at AMC Roseville with my two best friends due to our history of watching turtle movies together. I genuinely appreciate the dynamic between the turtles and April O’Neil, portrayed by Ayo Edebiri, who represents a person of color, a departure from the character’s past lore. I’m pleased that the producers avoided sexualizing April, instead focusing on her role as a guide for the turtles as they attempt to blend in with high school culture.
The action in the movie is shell-tastic, with a touch of dark humor. The story takes a unique approach to the comic book adaptation, remaining faithful to the source material. The movie’s soundtrack is infused with hip-hop and R&B vibes, which I thoroughly enjoyed and even grooved to in the theater. Ice Cube’s performance as Superfly truly won me over, solidifying his position as one of my favorite MCs of all time. He’s an entertainer who deserves more credit. Jackie Chan’s portrayal of Splinter is a perfect casting choice. In my opinion, he is the greatest martial artist in the world!
‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem’ is unquestionably a film worth watching with friends and family, particularly if you’re a dedicated Turtles fan. If animated movies like ‘Spider-Verse’ can stay true to the source material, perhaps comic book enthusiasts will find satisfaction in the new turtles film. So, gather your friends, and savor some pizza in the theater, because turtle fans worldwide are in for a shell of a good time!
By Joseph-Charles Peeples-Hampton, Staff Writer | The Metro Scoop Student Newspaper | August 7, 2023
Minnesota’s cannabis landscape is undergoing a historic transformation as two tribal nations, White Earth Nation and Red Lake Nation, take the lead in opening the state’s first recreational marijuana dispensaries. With the new marijuana law now officially in effect, Minnesotans can legally possess and cultivate cannabis for personal use, while certain low-level marijuana offenses are being expunged.
The White Earth Nation wasted no time in embracing recreational cannabis after its council voted to legalize it. The nation is poised to commence recreational marijuana sales in early August 2023, making premium cannabis products available to both tribal members and non-tribal adults aged 21 and older.
Similarly, Red Lake Nation is gearing up to launch its own recreational marijuana dispensary, operated by NativeCare, shortly after the new law’s enactment. The tribe’s calculated timing underscores their commitment to responsible service.
While most legal retail sales are projected to begin only in early 2025 due to licensing and regulatory processes, the proactive actions of White Earth Nation and Red Lake Nation demonstrate their determination to spearhead the cannabis market’s development in the region.
Beyond Minnesota’s borders, the US is closely observing these tribal nations’ efforts to champion expanded marijuana access, marking a milestone for local communities and inspiring other states exploring cannabis legalization.
As Minnesotans celebrate their newfound freedom to possess and grow marijuana, the state is also addressing past marijuana-related convictions. The Adult-Use Cannabis Act now automatically expunges low-level marijuana-related arrests and misdemeanor convictions from the state’s Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) database, benefiting over 66,000 Minnesotans.
For individuals with felony convictions, The Cannabis Expungement Board, to be established later this fall, will determine eligibility for expungement or re-sentencing. The board’s creation aligns with the state’s commitment to removing barriers for those with cannabis-related offenses seeking employment or housing.
The state’s efforts towards expungement aim to rectify racial disparities in marijuana arrests and convictions that have been evident both in Minnesota and nationwide.
Additionally, the recently passed Clean Slate Act, effective from January 2025, expands the list of offenses eligible for petitioning the court for expungement, setting a process for the BCA to seal qualifying records from petty misdemeanor to felony offenses.
As Minnesotans embark on a new era of legalized recreational marijuana, the actions of White Earth Nation and Red Lake Nation stand as a testament to the transformative power of cannabis acceptance. The journey towards broader legalization and equal justice in the realm of marijuana continues, paving the way for a more equitable future for all.
Staff Writer | The Metro Scoop Student Newspaper | August 4, 2023
PORTRAIT OF HENRIETTA LACKS – Painting source: Smithsonian Institution, National Portrait Gallery
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – A seismic shift in the fight for justice and recognition has occurred as Henrietta Lacks’ living relatives triumphantly reach a groundbreaking confidential settlement with Thermo Fisher Scientific, a biotech giant that has long profited from her immortal “HeLa” cells. The revelation, unveiled on Lacks’ 103rd birthday, marks a resounding victory and sets an indomitable precedent for future claims seeking rightful compensation and control of her invaluable genetic legacy.
Attorneys Ben Crump and Chris Seeger, revered for their unwavering pursuit of justice, stood at the forefront, wielding their legal prowess in defense of the Lacks family. In a powerful and poignant display, they called for a momentous news conference in Baltimore, Maryland, capturing the world’s attention as they unveiled the transformative resolution that reverberates far beyond the courtroom’s confines.
The family’s fervent lawsuit confronted an age-old injustice, a dark legacy that endured since Henrietta Lacks’ cells were surreptitiously harvested during her battle with cervical cancer at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Standing firm in their conviction, the Lacks family demanded restitution, firmly asserting that her cells, deemed indispensable in scientific breakthroughs, rightfully belong to them, and not to be exploited without consent by corporate interests like Thermo Fisher Scientific.
Ben Crump passionately and unequivocally underscored the racial justice implications of the case, stating, “Henrietta’s story epitomizes the enduring struggle for equality and respect that Black Americans have faced. Her descendants should reap the benefits of her enduring legacy, just as the world has.”
Amidst the legal battle, Thermo Fisher Scientific attempted to fend off accountability, arguing that the Lacks family delayed legal action and that countless entities worldwide also exploited HeLa cells without consent, exposing the pervasive injustice within the scientific community.
Henrietta Lacks’ extraordinary cells, unknowingly extracted following her untimely passing in 1951, stand as an everlasting testament to her resilience and enduring impact on humanity. These cells, instrumental in eradicating polio, unlocking the secrets of COVID-19, and revolutionizing medical treatments, have benefited millions worldwide, yet her legacy remained largely obscured.
In a gesture of recognition and reparation, Maryland Democratic Rep. Kweisi Mfume, joined by U.S. Sens. Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin, has introduced legislation to honor Lacks with the prestigious Congressional Gold Medal, an accolade befitting her immense contributions to science and humanity.”
By Joseph-Charles Peeples-Hampton, Staff Writer | The Metro Scoop Student Newspaper | August 7, 2023
PHOTO COURTESY OF BRITTANY DELANEY
ST. PAUL – The St. Paul community is coming together to support Brittany Delaney, a courageous Spoken Word Artist and Arts Educator born and raised in Minnesota, in her fierce battle against lupus. In the face of overwhelming medical challenges, Brittany’s unwavering spirit and dedication to her art have inspired many, prompting an outpouring of support from fans, friends, family, and fellow artists.
A fundraiser, spearheaded by Duesa Kali on behalf of Brittany Delaney, has raised an impressive $57,355 of the $80,000 goal to aid in Brittany’s ongoing treatment. The funds raised from the campaign have already made it possible for Brittany to undergo two complete rounds of treatment. Despite these efforts, the first two rounds did not achieve remission, and Brittany is now gearing up for her final round of treatment.
Brittany’s fight against lupus has been a long and arduous journey, marked by three strokes, countless seizures, numerous hospitalizations, and six rounds of chemotherapy. Recently, she received concerning news about the presence of nodules in her lungs. Initially deemed not overly alarming, the number of nodules has now increased to 25 in her left lung and 8 in her right, each ranging in size from 6 to 9mm, posing a serious threat to Brittany’s life.
Under the care of the Cancer Institute in Minnesota, Brittany’s path to remission has been fraught with challenges. Lupus, a disease known for making even the simplest tasks difficult, has not spared Brittany from its relentless grip. Inoperable nodules and vascular system attacks have further complicated her condition, while kidney and brain-related flare-ups have added to her struggles.
Despite these challenges, Brittany remains steadfast in her fight, buoyed by the incredible support she has received from the community. The fundraiser has given her hope and the ability to confront this critical phase of her treatment. Brittany’s determination to continue fighting for her life and her children’s future has touched the hearts of many.
In her journey with lupus, Brittany has faced obstacles not only in her health but also in accessing life-saving medications. Insurance coverage has progressively dropped many of the treatments she needs today, leaving her without the resources she requires. However, rather than battling this fight alone, Brittany has chosen to lean into the support of the community, drawing strength from every donation, prayer, and encouraging message.
One source of love and inspiration in Brittany’s life is her little girl, Layla, who recently sent a touching message to her mother during her hospitalization, highlighting the immense challenges Brittany is facing and the significance of community support:
“Dear Mom, I made this letter for you to remember that I love you more than life itself, and I would do anything for you, you are the most beautiful human being that I have ever laid eyes on. I couldn’t wish for a better mother as that would not be possible because you are the best mom I could ever wish for, to have you as a mother is a true blessing that I am so thankful for. I will continue to love you to the day we are not with each other anymore and I will still love you afterwards…”
Brittany’s journey is a testament to her strength and resilience, as she navigates through a difficult reality with resolute courage. As a dedicated Arts Educator, Activist, and Executive Director at Black Table Arts, Brittany has been an influential figure in the Minnesota arts scene for over two decades. She has been associated with prominent Spoken Word groups such as The Minnesota Spoken Word Association, Quest for the Voice, Brave New Voices (HBO), Teens Rock the Mic, and various Slam organizations. Brittany has also facilitated poetry workshops in university-based establishments across the country and has been a contracted Curriculum Consultant for various school districts in the United States. Her focus on promoting literacy, inclusion, and safe space learning environments through culturally responsive (and responsible) curriculum and practices encourages a thoughtful and intentional community.
Despite Brittany’s undying passion for her art and her commitment to her community, she is facing the heartbreaking reality that her health has hindered her ability to book shows and cover the overwhelming cost of treatment. Lupus has taken a toll on her physical well-being, making it increasingly challenging for her to perform and sustain her usual activities. The once vibrant and energetic performer now grapples with the limitations imposed by her condition, making it difficult to pursue her artistic endeavors as she once did. Nevertheless, Brittany’s resilience shines through as she continues to find strength in the firm support of her community, hoping that her fight against lupus will pave the way for brighter days ahead.
Now, the community has a chance to join forces with Brittany, to be part of her fight, and to offer support in her pursuit of remission. Donations can be made through Cash App: $survivinglupus30 or Venmo: Brittany-Delaney-3. Alternatively, you can use this GoFundMe link: https://gofund.me/93a4525d or type her name “Brittany Delaney” in the search box, and her story will pull up. Let’s stand together with Brittany and her family, demonstrating that she is not alone in this fight against lupus.
Staff Writer | The Metro Scoop Student Newspaper | August 7, 2023
ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Wellstone Center was ablaze with excitement on Wednesday, July 19th, as the highly anticipated Minnesota premiere of “It’s Basic” took center stage. Filmmaker Marc Levin’s powerful documentary shed light on the transformative impact of the guaranteed income movement on communities nationwide. Hosted by St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter, the event gathered fervent community members ready to ignite change through a guaranteed income.
“It’s Basic” artfully weaved together real-life narratives of individuals participating in diverse guaranteed-income pilot programs across the country. The film deeply resonated with the audience, vividly illustrating how the additional income proved a lifeline for those facing economic hardships, with a particular focus on women and parents. The documentary showcased the potential of the guaranteed income campaign to empower, uplift, and revitalize communities nationwide.
St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter delivers pre-screening remarks during the “It’s Basic” documentary premiere. (Photo courtesy of Mayor Melvin Carter’s office)
Mayor Carter, a tireless champion of the movement, addressed the captivated audience with unwavering resolve. He recounted the origins of St. Paul’s People’s Prosperity Guaranteed Income Pilot, which, nearly three years ago, extended a helping hand to 150 families, providing them with $500 a month for 18 months. The pilot aimed to break barriers, offering residents resources to chart their path to financial prosperity.
The star-studded event featured Michael Tubbs, the former mayor of Stockton, California, whose visionary ideas ignited the spark of universal basic income (UBI) or guaranteed income for Mayor Carter. The enduring partnership between the two leaders has led to the rapid expansion of the guaranteed income movement, with support from over 100 cities nationwide, including St. Paul, Minneapolis, Richfield, and Brooklyn Center in Minnesota, through Mayors for a Guaranteed Income and Counties for a Guaranteed Income.
The documentary screening highlighted the resounding success of St. Paul’s guaranteed income pilot. Insights from the pilot’s findings revealed that over half of the funds were judiciously utilized for necessities like food, household goods, and hygiene products. The participants, a diverse tapestry of backgrounds, showed women as the backbone of the program’s success, proving guaranteed income isn’t just about money; it’s about hope and opportunity.
The screening also unveiled Springboard for the Arts’ remarkable expansion of its guaranteed-income program, now reaching both St. Paul and rural Minnesotans. The program’s commitment to supporting 50 artists from St. Paul and 25 artists from Otter Tail County demonstrated its resolve to be a catalyst for artistic growth and economic empowerment.
The documentary’s success energized the guaranteed income movement, attracting attention from state legislatures. State Rep. Athena Hollins, a driving force behind the Universal Basic Income bill, passionately shared her journey and vision during the event. Her conviction in the necessity of guaranteed income programs for Minnesotans grew during the COVID-19 pandemic, as she witnessed how every dollar spent made a world of difference to families and businesses in need.
Mayor Carter seized the moment to dispel misconceptions surrounding guaranteed income, emphasizing data gathered by his office. The findings defied stereotypes, disproving the notion that those benefiting from these programs are irresponsible with the extra income. The evidence supported a profound truth: guaranteed income nurtures responsibility and strengthens communities.
As the credits rolled on “It’s Basic,” the audience was left inspired and invigorated. The documentary’s compelling message served as a rallying cry for transformative change, urging individuals, communities, and legislatures to embrace the boundless potential of guaranteed income. As the flames of hope continued to burn bright on the night of the screening, it became clear that this movement is not just a passing spark but a wildfire with hopes of blazing a trail of empowerment and equity across Minnesota and beyond.
ST. Paul, MINN. (The Metro) – On the 23rd of May, the 2023 legislative session ended here in Minnesota, and any hope for legislation not yet passed by both the House and Senate met its fate in the trash bin of history, so to speak. That is not to say this wasn’t an especially productive session for our government that is presently controlled by a Democratic trifecta – meaning that Democrats control the House, the Senate, and the Governor’s office. What follows is not an exhaustive list of bills that made their way into becoming law, but a rundown of some of the more important new laws.
House File 1/Senate File 1- Abortion Access and Legal Protections-
Let us start with what was the highest priority for Democrats coming into this session, that being the reproductive health rights and access bill which was passed early in the legislative session. A little backstory on this legislative issue; the 2022 US Supreme Court, in the case Dobbs v. Jackson, essentially overturned the landmark abortion rights case of Roe v. Wade (1973) and sent each state scrambling for solutions, some favoring more restrictive access to abortions, and some, like Minnesota, favoring more open access. Here in Minnesota, that meant passing HF1/SF1, which “Protects the Reproductive Options Act,” and “establishes a fundamental right to reproductive health.” There is another segment to abortion access as outlined in HF366/SF165, which offers certain legal protections to those wishing to obtain, or who have obtained an abortion. For instance, this bill limits the release of health records, restricts the enforcement of subpoenas, and prohibits the extradition from Minnesota of persons charged in another state where abortions are illegal. These bills became law on Tues. January 31, 2023, making Minnesota the first state to codify abortion rights.
Previously, abortions were already legal here as the 1995 Minnesota Supreme Court decision known as Doe v. Gomez shows. Adding to this, weeks after the Dobbs ruling from the US Supreme Court, Ramsey County District Judge Thomas Gilligan struck down every provision of the 1995 law, including parental notification and the 24-hour waiting period leaving one to wonder if this new legislation from the DFL was necessary, or if they pushed it through in a vote along party lines just for some national attention.
House File 100/Senate File 73- Legalization of Marijuana-
Next on the list of new laws passed in Minnesota is the ever-popular HF100/SF73, the marijuana legalization legislation. While this is certainly good news for just about everyone who suffers from several physical maladies, it is also good news for those languishing in jail for minor marijuana offenses. Included in the provisions of the new law are pardons for those convicted of misdemeanor offenses. But this is also good for the State of Minnesota and for law enforcement. It is good for Minnesota because, as other states that have legalized marijuana have shown, this new legislation should lead to a windfall in tax revenue. As far as law enforcement is concerned, this new legislation should allow them to focus on more pressing crimes not related to marijuana.
House File 2290/Senate File 2259- Ban on No Knock Warrants-
Speaking of law enforcement, this past legislative session brought about a welcome change in the manner in which police officers conduct search warrants. No longer will they be able to use the so-called no-knock warrants to enter premises, which, after the deaths of Breonna Taylor and Amir Locke and others, has been shown to be a dangerous and reckless method for police to serve a warrant on a suspected criminal.
House File 28/Senate File 26- Voting Restoration for Felons-
Staying within the realm of criminal justice reform, HF28/SF26 (the new law that restores the right to vote for felons who are on probation or parole), was signed into law by Gov. Walz on Fri. March 3, 2023. Sec. Of State Steve Simon, who I interviewed this past January regarding this new legislation, was on hand for the signing ceremony where he was quoted as saying, “I voted. Those are two very powerful words. And I can’t wait to see tens of thousands of newly eligible voters in Minnesota pin this badge of democracy on their chest in the next election.”
House File 15/Senate File 1117- Gun Reform-
Last but certainly not least on my list of new laws in 2023 revolves around – maybe – the most contentious debate of our time, both politically and socially. That topic is, of course, the debate surrounding gun control. Two of the bills that made it into law are HF15/SF1117, the “red flag” law, and HF14/SF1116, the “background checks for private gun sales” law. Taking each in turn, the red flag law is meant to enable those associates of gun owners who fear for the safety of the public, the gun owner, or themselves. The background checks for private gun sales seek to close what many feel are “loopholes” in who is required, and who is not, when purchasing a firearm. Previously, in the State of Minn., anyone looking to sell a firearm could do so without having to pull a background check or provide a bill of sale of any kind on the prospective buyer. This included sales at gun shows throughout the state. In actuality, if one person wanted to sell a gun and another person wanted to buy that gun, previously in Minnesota, there were no restrictions on what either was required to do. Theoretically, both buyer and seller could have shown up, exchanged a gun for cash (or some other form of payment), and then walked away without having said a word.
by Pierre Young, Editor-in-Chief of the Metropolitan Student Newsletter, published 7/5/2023
Courtesy of Version 1
Call of Duty E-Sports is back! The Major V series kicks off in person in the states of Minnesota and Wisconsin, featuring 12 different teams from Atlanta, Boston, Florida, London, Los Angeles, New York, Texas, Seattle, Toronto, and Vegas. Personally, my favorite team, Minnesota Rokkr, will be competing against Boston Breach and London Royal Ravens.
Minnesota Rokkr was created by the company Version 1, which has a partnership with the Minnesota Vikings. The Vikings’ headquarters are located in Eagan, next to their training camp. I had the opportunity to speak with Cassie Batinich, the Director of Communications, to cover the story of the home series weekend. This was the first home series I attended since 2020, before the pandemic hit, and I was excited to finally have a Minnesota e-sports team in the Twin Cities competing against other cities and countries.
The home series took place at the Palace Theater in Downtown St. Paul on May 6th 2023, a small venue known for hosting concerts and events. I was granted media and VIP credentials, allowing me to witness the matches up close and personal, in front of numerous fans. The first match between Rokkr and London ended with Rokkr sweeping them off the floor, securing a crushing 3-0 victory. The second match against Boston was disappointing, as Boston took the victory with a score of 3-1. However, despite the loss, fans remained proud of Rokkr.
Courtesy of Pierre Young – Editor in Chief
During the event, there were giveaways for Nintendo Switch consoles and controllers, which was exciting to see fellow gaming and e-sports enthusiasts enjoying. The VIP section provided a fantastic experience, offering front-row views for capturing videos and photos of exhilarating moments that drove the fans wild. Additionally, the open bar at the venue served complimentary drinks to VIP credential holders, allowing them to save money.
Despite the team’s loss, the meet and greet portion of the event was incredible. I had the opportunity to meet the players for the first time and experienced their warm welcome. It was a reminder that these players are regular human beings who simply love video games as much as their fans do. The event solidified my pride as both a gamer and an e-sports fan, inspiring me to aspire to open my own e-sports venue one day that caters to both youth and adults.
by Pierre Young, Editor-in-Chief of The Metropolitan Student Newspaper
HBO has brought hope to video game adaptations. “The Last of Us,” based on the video game series, has turned into a full-production 9-episode series on HBO Max. The story follows Joel, a hardened survivor who takes charge of a 14-year-old named Ellie, and the two of them go on an adventure in a pandemic-filled world with zombies called ‘the infected.’
Creators Neil Druckmann and Craig Mazin took time to hear the voices of fans of the video game and created this universe that has the same story but different representations of characters than we originally saw in the game. There are LGBT, ASL (hard of hearing), and POC characters. Pedro Pascal (The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent; Wonder Woman) portrays Joel, a challenging character facing trauma at the beginning of the game at the start of the pandemic. Bella Ramsey (Game of Thrones; Judy) stars as Ellie, a wise-cracking teenager who was born during the pandemic and is learning about civilization and how it used to be with the guidance of Joel.
Together, Joel and Ellie must face obstacles on their journey to find a cure to end the terrors of the pandemic that will be the key to civilization. I recommend this series to all gamers who might enjoy this adaptation since there are hardly any good video game adaptations.
By: James J. Berreth, Government and Political Writer with The Metropolitan
In the picture: Victor Rosenthal
“As serious as he could be at times, he loved to laugh more than anything, especially with his family.”
Ben Rosenthal
St. Paul, Minn. – Victor (Vic) Rosenthal, a tireless advocate for social justice, and former professor at Metro State University passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 28th at the Beyond Hospice Home in Oakdale, Minn. He was 68.
Reading through news clippings, memorial tributes on his Caring Bridge site, and the beautiful obituary written by his son Ben Rosenthal paints a picture of a man unwavering in his dedication, advocacy for others, generosity, and relentlessness of spirit.
For instance, in an interview conducted by Bob Keller in 2013, Mr. Rosenthal describes the work he did during the recession of 2008 and afterward. In 2009, when Vic was the executive director of Jewish Community Action (JCA), he and other volunteers went door-knocking in North Minneapolis (an area where 1 in 4 homes was in foreclosure) and helped direct homeowners to foreclosure prevention specialists. In many cases, Vic sat down with African American residents and just listened as he wanted to know what was important to them, which helped forge real, lasting relationships that could be built upon. Through the JCA, and an arm of the JCA called the Northside Community Reinvestment Coalition, or NCRC, Vic and other organizers helped residents fight against banks looking to foreclose on their homes by interceding on their behalf with the banks and negotiating terms beneficial to these residents.
For Vic, it was all about the connections one could make with anyone and everyone. This same sentiment continues to echo in the virtual halls of Metro State University. In his POL 301, Citizenship in a Global Context class session on Mon. April 3rd, Professor John Porten instructed his students that the best way to combat racism, bigotry, and intolerance is by networking and forging relationships with immigrants and people who are from different cultures. This is how you build social capital; this is how we gain power, and this is how we change the views of those who oppose equal rights.
Vic was, by all accounts, a great father, and according to his son Ben, “To be loved by Vic meant to be loved without condition or limit.” I can think of no greater testament to a life well lived than by closing with this final sentiment, again, from his son Ben, “He was a passionate, intelligent, thoughtful, caring, inspiring, and generous man, but it was his capacity to love that exceeded everything.”
Vic Rosenthal will be missed by many and his legacy lives on in those who knew him best, in the organizations he helped grow, and by the thousands of lives, he touched. The State of Minnesota owes a debt of gratitude to Vic Rosenthal, his wife Chris, his sons Ben and Aaron, their wives, and two grandchildren he doted over, Harper and Henry.
A memorial service will be held on the Metro State University’s St. Paul campus in St. John’s Hall, room 154 at 4 pm on Tues. April 4th.
