Ethnic media technology news beat examines broadband opportunityIvan B. Phifer this week joins McFarlane Media as a technology reporter supporting efforts to expand broadband awareness and utilization in communities of color. Phifer’s work will appear in newspapers serving African and African American, Latino, Asian and American Indian communities.
The newspapers are members of Minnesota Multicultural Media Consortium, which, in partnership with University of Minnesota’s innovative Urban Research and Outreach Engagement Center (UROC), and the U’s Office for Business and Community Economic Development, have created a network of community public computer centers (PCC) that provide jobs, training and access to high speed internet technology.
A 5th ward resident, Phifer, graduated from the University of Minnesota on May 16, 2010, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Studies. Phifer is also an alumnus of North High School, which is where he began his study of Broadcast/Journalism Media in the Arts and Communications Magnet program.
He has volunteered in pledge drives for Jazz88, KBEM FM, the Minneapolis Public Schools’ radio station. In addition to earning two broadcasting trophies, Phifer was named one of the top Black seniors in EBONY magazine in 2005 for these efforts.
As a long time North Minneapolis resident, Phifer says he is fully aware of the problems that exist in his community, and has taken it upon himself to make a change in the community that has brought him up. He said he remains positive as he seeks to inspire others through his community involvement, and determination.
UROC recently enjoyed its formal opening to the public in ribbon cutting ceremonies and an open house. UROC community outreach programs include the Broadband Access Project a $3.6 million initiative, geared to ensure expanded broadband access and utilization by underserved communities.
UROC’s Broadband Access Project (BAP) seeks mainly to serve in the most underserved and economically strained “poverty zone” communities. The targeted areas where centers are currently placed include four centers in three north-side neighborhoods (Jordan, Webber-Camden & North Loop), three locations in two south-side neighborhoods (Peevey Field & Powderhorn), Glendale Public Housing in southeast (Prospect Park) and Frogtown in St Paul.
Although it was created in 2006, the initial concept was developed in 2005 between University of Minnesota President Robert Bruininks and Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak. This proposition came about when the two were brainstorming ways to become involved more in the urban community through outreach development to create opportunity for “the most underserved communities in the metro area”. UROC’s Broadband Access Project will create 24-36 jobs within the community. In addition, this program will finally give access and training to those who may have lacked the resources, provide information on job opportunities, and enhance the use of public computer facilities.
