‘Cover Stories’ Archives
New Hours for Using Computers
By CARZ NELSON Hennepin County Library services during the Coronavirus Pandemic, visit www.hclib. org. All information is accurate as of September 15, 2020Â Franklin Library at 1413 E Franklin Avenue is open for computer use. Call (612) 543- 6925 to make an appointment. The building will remain locked, but staff will let you in at your appointment time. Masks are required and will be provided if you do not bring one. Because of social distancing, staff will be unable to offer computer assistance. You will have access to a desktop computer, Internet, and printing. You will need to bring your own headphones. At this time, Franklin Library is open for computer use ONLY. Other areas and services, including book/DVD checkout, are not available. They will be accepting returns during staffed service hours. Franklin Library Computer Hours Tuesday & Wednesday 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Thursday 12-8 p.m. Friday & Saturday 9 a.m.- 5 [...]
Tips from a COVID-19 Case Investigator
 By LINDSEY FENNER The pandemic has brought into sharp focus all of the inadequacies and inequities of American society. And yet, so many are zoomed in on personal actions and individual rights, based on some blurry idea of “freedom.” While there is much we can each do as individuals to limit risk and exposure to COVID-19, after every single phone call I have with someone who has tested positive, I am struck by the enormous structural failures everyone I talk to has encountered. From testing difficulties, loss of income, confusing communication, mistrust of government, lack of ability to isolate, workplace safety concerns, and on and on, it is clear to me that there is no singular or simple solution to this pandemic. But this doesn”™t mean that there is nothing to be done. This is where all of you come in. Vote like your life depends on it, because it does. Vote for Federal leadership on masking, PPE production, testing, treatment, [...]
Unsheltered Native People Return to Wall of Forgotten Natives
 By Metropolitan Urban Indian Directors 2020 there was yet another forced eviction of our homeless relatives, mostly Native American, from publicly owned property within the City of Minneapolis. Unfortunately, there was no solution or direction offered to our homeless relatives as to where to go, and so they were left to fend for themselves. Disbanding an encampment without any viable, safe alternatives for these human beings is wholly unacceptable and in reality, disgusting in its disregard for human life. With nowhere to go, and acting out of pure desperation, our relatives have once again returned to the former location of the 2018 mass homeless encampment on MnDOT property at the intersection of Hiawatha and Franklin Avenue - known as the “Wall of Forgotten Natives.” Due to the inaction and lack of accountability from all levels of government it is shameful that we find ourselves in the very same position as we were in two years ago. This is [...]
