Summit-University (Old Rondo)

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  Fred (Fritz) Schreiber

  Julie M. Luker

  BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Fred (Fritz) Schreiber is a Caucasian male born on August 7, 1926, at Summit University (Old Rondo). He is the youngest of five kids raised by his father and his maternal grandma after his mother passed away when he was four. His dad worked at Minnesota Mine, American Hoist, and Derrick. Schreiber was raised Lutheran as a way to connect to his mother. SUBJECTS DISCUSSED: He begins his interview by explaining his living arrangement with his family. Nine people lived in one household but recalled it was a great time regardless of the number of family members under one roof. Schreiber mentions that most of his neighbors growing up were African-American, which created no conflict for the other neighbors. Leisure time happened when his father was not working on Sundays. These activities included going to Como Zoo, visiting relatives in Carver, and pheasant hunting. Sundays were reserved for family time. When asked about local and global issues impacting him during his childhood years, Schreiber recalls discussions about Hitler and World War II. Next, he details his time in the military while he was stationed in Okinawa after the war. He lived through the biggest typhoon to have hit the island. In the second part of the interview, Schreiber describes more issues that arose in his neighborhood or lack thereof. He recalls having black classmates mixed in with his primarily white class but does not remember any discrimination happening. He describes the difference between being integrated with other people of color in his school and neighborhood and being segregated once he joined the military. Schreiber then talks about the time he gave a blood transfusion on a cot to a black man during his service. He concludes his interview by describing a parade at his school.

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  Isiah Dennis

  Julie M. Luker

  BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Isiah Dennis is a Black male born on June 20, 1990. He lived with his grandparents and his mother in the Rondo neighborhood during his upbringing. His mother worked at Cub Foods. Isiah's religious affiliation is Methodist. SUBJECTS DISCUSSED: Dennis recounts his upbringing in the Rondo neighborhood. He talks about the bond he shared with his grandparents and mother. Dennis shares warm memories that revolve around family gatherings, barbecues hosted by his late grandpa, and the vibrant atmosphere filled with much music and laughter. Dennis reflects on the impact of his family's economic circumstances during his upbringing. He acknowledges that they were low-income. He stresses that despite their limited income, he never felt impoverished or lacking anything essential. Dennis goes on to reflect on how his family's financial circumstances have influenced his present spending habits. Dennis discusses his Methodist upbringing and attending United Methodist Church, highlighting its integral role in his life. He acknowledges the impact of his faith on his identity as an openly queer black man and talks about the transformative power of his relationship with God in accepting his authentic self. Dennis reflects on his upbringing in the Rondo neighborhood. He recalls the values of authenticity, mutual care, and loving one's neighbor that were instilled by his family and neighbors. He expresses a commitment to preserving the neighborhood's history and values in the face of changes and gentrification. Next Dennis reminisces about his leisure activities during his upbringing, including spending time at Jimmy Lee Recreation Center, parks, and hanging out with friends in the neighborhood. Dennis discusses his educational journey from elementary school to higher education. He talks about his positive experiences in elementary school, some challenges he faced in middle school, and the empowerment and belonging he felt from engaging in extracurriculars in high school. He also discusses the higher education paths he pursued. Lastly, Dennis discusses significant issues during his upbringing in his neighborhood. He mentions gun violence, gang activity, and drug problems, along with the need for comprehensive sex education. He talks about messages of treating everyone with love and looking beyond differences were instilled. He goes into his concerns about gentrification, historical preservation, and community well-being.