January 2014
Art in Disguise
Incognito Gala
All You Need to Know
The Red Cross
Girls, Boys Schools
Why They Work
Gone but Not Forgotten A Wife, Mother Carries on After Husband’s Senseless Death
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January 2014
Inside
14 Life After J.P. Shelley 7
The Mayor on City Priorities
10 Incognito Gala Almost Here 12 Resident Wins Pharmacy Honor
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Photo courtesy of Jennifer Brezina
21 Why Single-Sex Schools Work Departments
5 From the Editor
25 Snapshots
7 Around Town
27 Calendar
23 Gotta Go!
30 And Another Thing ...
What’s special this month — in the magazine, and the area. People, places, problems, good causes and occasions. Best bets for upcoming concerts, shows and events.
Community residents share their photos with readers.
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Photo courtesy of the city of Germantown
Your guide to music, theater, kid stuff and lots more. A fond farewell from this month’s issue of the magazine.
On the Cover This ribbon commemorates the life of J.P. Shelley, a Germantown man who was killed in October as he made a construction estimate. His wife is learning to carry on without him.
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Photo courtesy of the Memphis Botanic Garden
21
Photo courtesy of hibu
Photo courtesy of Jennifer Brezina
You could be a community contributor! Patti Cherry runs her own human resources firm and writes in this issue about developing the social skills it takes to get ahead. You can write on a topic of interest too. Just email the address below and let’s get started.
Get involved! Send your photos, stories or events to:
Germantown@hibu.com Want to contribute to your magazine? We need your help! If you’ve got a news release, a story tip, a great photo or want to write for us, send a note to the above email address and we will be in touch! Please visit marketing.hibu.com/release to read the terms for submissions. Interested in Advertising? Contact us at marketing.hibu.com/advertise or call 800-929-3556.
©2014 hibu Inc. • All rights reserved. hibu™ is a trademark of hibu (UK) Limited. January 2014
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January 2014
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Message from the
L
Editor
ately, I’ve been busy — so busy I can hardly see straight. The days have been long and the rest has been light. This incredible hibu community magazine effort has been growing by leaps and bounds, and I’ve been striving (although not always succeeding) to grow along with it. And as the pace has accelerated, my usual attention to detail hasn’t been at its best. It’s been too busy hopping from one thing to another, never pausing long enough to notice much. Consequently, this month’s cover feature sat tucked in a folder for at least a couple of weeks before I ever found a second to glance over it. But when I did — oh my. Let’s just say I was glad to be sitting down. It’s written by a woman whose husband was killed in October as he worked on a construction estimate in Hickory Hill. You might expect a piece like that to be full of grief and fury. Although I’m sure those emotions live somewhere between the lines, they’re simply not the point of this incredible, moving personal story. As you will see beginning on Page 14, it’s a portrait of a woman striving to turn her unimaginable tragedy to a greater purpose. Bev Shelley wants to do nothing less than help solve the youth violence problem in Memphis, all while raising her two small children alone. So as we begin this new year, let’s all hope for a modicum of the strength and courage inside a woman like Bev.
Lindsay Jones Submit photos, events or articles to: Germantown@hibu.com
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January 2014
around town
Local news you can use.
Schools, Roads and Quality of Life Mayor Sharon Goldsworthy touches on some of the city’s biggest priorities at the dawn of 2014. by Lindsay Jones
has kept its debt load well below the rating agencies’ debt limit level; there are no bubbles of debt payment sitting out there. We’ve done what’s necessary to keep the ith another year almost upon us, pension fund viable and we’ve hit our Germantown Life asked Mayor marks on funding the Other Post-EmploySharon Goldsworthy about ment Benefits trust. the city’s prerogatives. This is how she We’ve initiated an annual infrastrucresponded, in a nutshell. ture replacement plan to keep utilities What is Germantown’s highest and roads in good shape; we’re updating priority as we head into 2014? infrastructure in our oldest subdivisions so Some priorities, such as public safety all neighborhoods remain attractive. We’ve and quality of life, never change, but in the bided our time with road construction, year ahead, the development and launch of Mayor Sharon Goldsworthy talks about what’s parlaying a small city match with large the Germantown Municipal Schools disahead for the city. Photo courtesy of the city of Germantown state and federal road dollars to build and trict is clearly a high priority. A municipal rebuild streets. system derives from the city’s authority to What are the most important capital improvements you create it, and we’ve spent close to three years working toward expect to be addressed this year? that vision. The Germantown Road South widening to five lanes beWhat will need the most work? tween Stout Road and the southern city limit is important to Instead of a particular area needing considerable attention, traffic safety and flow. We’re also advancing plans for the greall dimensions of city government are constantly and consisenway along the north side of Wolf River Boulevard between tently re-examined for potential improvement. Kimbrough Road and Cameron Brown Park. Talk about the city’s recent Triple-A status. What might Completion of the new public services maintenance facilother municipalities learn from such a bond rating? ity on Southern Avenue will give employees a safer and more If there’s a single descriptive word for our fiscal sustainabilfunctional work space. ity endeavors, it’s “conservative.” For several decades, the city Editor
W
IN Brief Latest Quarterly City Newsletter Available Now
FYI, the city of Germantown’s quarterly electronic newsletter, contains lots of information about what’s coming up. The latest issue, released in midDecember, previews happenings around town from January to April. The newsletter can be viewed by computer, tablet or smart phone, and gives an extensive overview of coming events from city departments such as the Germantown Community Library, the Germantown Performing Arts Center, Bobby Lanier Farm Park and others. For more information, contact Stacey Ewell at 901-751-7559 or sewell@ germantown-tn.gov. —Lindsay Jones
Photo courtesy of city of Germantown
January 2014
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January 2014
Generosity Local Area Tops in Giving by Lindsay Jones Editor A recent survey by Craftsy, an online destination for learning, sharing and creating, found that the greater Memphis area is one of the most generous in the country. It came in 13th in the survey of 10,000 people nationwide, just ahead of People in the Greater Memphis area are Tulsa, Okla., and one considered tops in giving. slot behind New York Photo courtesy of hibu City. The top five cities included Manchester, N.H.; Port St. Lucie, Fla.; Spokane, Wash.; Worchester, Mass.; and Virginia Beach, Va. The survey ranked responses from members based on frequency of and propensity for giving. To see the full list of results, visit craftsy.com/blog.
Land Donated in Ark. International Paper has donated its Lake Erling property in southwest Arkansas to the American Gamebird Research Education and Development Foundation. The foundation will preserve and improve the property to protect wildlife and will maintain the lake for public recreational use in perpetuity. The approximately 7,000-acre property includes the lakebed, a controlling dam and a small park that provides public access to the lake. The lake is a man-made impoundment constructed in the 1950s as a water source for International Paper’s nearby Springhill Mill, which closed more than 30 years ago. The Lake Erling dam and water flow are operated and controlled under an agreement with the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, and its fish and wildlife are managed through an agreement with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. These agreements will continue under AGRED’s ownership. —Thomas J. Ryan Correction: In the December issue of Germantown Life, we referred to Still Sweet Photography incorrectly. Germantown Life regrets the error and strives to be as accurate as possible.
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January 2014
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Generosity
Incognito Exhibit Brings Fun, Surprises by Jana Wilson Community contributor Three years ago, long-time artist friend Phyllis Boger approached Memphis Botanic Garden with a unique idea for a fundraiser: Create a collection of original artwork by local artists, with a festive party and silent auction at the end of the month-long exhibit. The catch? All artwork would remain unsigned until the end of the party, so buyers would be bidding on “what they love, not who they know.” January marks the third year for the Incognito Art Exhibit and Gala, which will include approximately 100 artists in the Visitors Center Gallery from Jan. 7-31 during regular business hours. The show will culminate in an Art Gala and Silent Auction on Friday, Jan. 31, start-
Incognito is a lively guessing game. Photo courtesy of the Memphis Botanic Garden
ing at 5:30 p.m. When the gala evening arrives, many of the artists and guests attend in costume, continuing the Incognito theme until the bidding is closed and winners are announced. There’s a frenzy of activity as patrons pick up their items and meet the artists, who will sign the pieces for them.
One of the most exciting aspects of the Incognito auction is the possibility of scoring first-rate, original artwork at an affordable price. Bidding starts at a very minimal level, so it is not unheard of for someone to take home their favorite piece of artwork for less than $100. First-time exhibitors have watched their pieces sell for as much as established, recognizable artists. And, of course, there are surprises — buyers who fall in love with a new talent, thinking it’s a more familiar name. The gala and silent auction will include live entertainment, drinks and hors d’oeuvres. Art and ticket sales benefit Memphis Botanic Garden’s outreach and education programs, bringing nature and environmental education to more 40,000 children each year. Call 901-636-4131 for gala tickets or information.
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January 2014 11
Health
G’town Pharmacy Dean Recognized Chisolm-Burns honored for editorial efforts in her field. by Peggy Reisser Winburne Community contributor Germantown resident Dr. Marie Chisholm-Burns, dean of the College of Pharmacy at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, is the recipient of the 2013 Literature Award for Sustained Contributions given by the American Society of HealthSystem Pharmacists Research and Education Foundation. The award honors important contributions by pharmacists to biomedical literature, and is made to individuals who publish high-impact articles in the primary, peerreviewed journals, according to the ASHP Foundation. Emphasis is placed on originality, innovation, impact and quality of the contributed articles. Chisholm-Burns, who has been a pharmacist since 1992, was appointed dean of the College of Pharmacy at UTHSC in 2011. Previously professor and head of the Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science at the University of Arizona College of Pharmacy, she is a nationally known investigator and educator, and an accomplished scholar and author. Her work has appeared in more than 260 publications, and she has received about $8 million in external funding from organizations such as the National Institutes of Health and several foundations, for research on which she is the principal investigator.
Photo courtesy of the University of Tennesse HSC
Literary Works Chisolm-burns has also coedited textbooks such as “Pharmacotherapy Principles and Practice” and the award-winning “Pharmacy Management, Leadership, Marketing, and Finance.
PR Director Promoted
Liquid Biopsy Available
Science center elevates Champlin.
New test helps spot breast cancer.
In other UT Health Science Center news, Sheila T. Champlin has been named the assistant vice chancellor for the school’s Communications and Marketing DepartPhoto courtesy of the UTHSC ment, effective July 1. Since May 2006, she has served as director of the department, managing a staff of seven and a variety of freelancers and consultants. Hired by the leadership of the state’s only public academic health science facility with some 3,500 employees statewide, Champlin manages all internal and external communications and marketing. She is responsible for media relations, advertising, alumni publications, targeted social media campaigns, crisis management, collaboration with the Knoxville-based public relations team on UT system initiatives, and upholding the UT identity and graphic standards. Champlin works directly with leaders such as the the chancellor, executive vice chancellor/ chief operations officer, deans and vice chancellors on communications strategies and materials designed to meet the evolving needs of the organization. —Information courtesy of UTHSC
The West Clinic’s Comprehensive Breast Center in Germantown is offering a new test for women who have had breast cancer in the past. Called the ClearID Breast Monitoring Photo courtesy of hibu Program, it detects a potential recurrence by sampling cells in the blood. “We have known for a long time that you can detect small numbers of cancer cells floating in the blood stream, sometimes even before we can find a tumor on an X-ray or CT scan,” says medical director Lee S. Schwartzberg. “The challenge has been how do we find those cells, sort them and identify them? ClearID is a new advance that allows us to do this.” The test is often paired with other screening tools to make sure any recurrence of breast cancer is caught early. “We might be able to tailor therapies to [patients], allowing women to live better and longer lives with less symptoms.” The test also enables doctors to harvest cancerous cells to create genetic profiles. For more information about the test, visit cynvenio.com. —Information courtesy of the West Clinic
12 January 2014
January 2014 13
A Woman’s Search for Meaning Wife, mother carries on valiantly after her husband’s killing. by Bev Shelley Community contributor
I
t is my hope that this story sheds more light on some desperately needed change in Memphis. It’s a sad story, a story about senseless murder that I will never understand. It’s also a story about a horrible tragedy bringing out the best in people, and the outpouring of support that I can’t begin to thank.
My husband, J.P. Shelley, was robbed at gunpoint, shot and killed by two young assailants in Memphis on a Friday morning in early October. We had been married for nearly 19 years, and he was a devoted father to our young son, Palmer, and daughter, Emme. The day J.P. was shot was Palmer’s 7th birthday. Friday, Oct. 4, was an ordinary day like most others. As the librarian at Southwind Elementary School, I had been very busy that week with our book fair. The night before, we’d had an open house book fair at school, and J.P. had brought the kids over to see one of my co-workers dressed up like Clifford the Dog. That was the kind of dad he was. The morning of the 4th, I arrived early at work so I could finish up the book fair and get ready for my classes, cafeteria duty and computer lab. I had planned to leave early that day for Palmer’s birthday party. I even texted J.P. at 11:43 a.m., asking him to bring home a lighter, candles and “Phineas and Ferb” cartoon characters for the cake. It’s a text he would never have a chance to read.
The day life changed forever My phone started buzzing in class around 12:15 p.m., and it kept vibrating. When I had a chance to return the call about 30 minutes later, it was the Memphis Police Department. I was in a cafeteria full of fifth graders when the police told me my husband had been in an accident, and I needed to get to the Regional Medical Center at Memphis. I thought J.P. had been in a car wreck. I kept asking if he was alive, but they wouldn’t tell me what happened over the phone. An assistant principal and guidance counselor drove me downtown to the hospital, where I almost immediately learned that J.P. had been shot and killed at a house in Hickory Hill — a house where he was working on an estimate for some 14 January 2014
Since her beloved husband’s death in October, Bev Shelley has been doing everything she can to turn a tragedy to good purpose. Photo courtesy of Jennifer Brezina
contracting work. His death certificate says he died at 11:23 a.m., exactly 20 minutes before I texted him. His life was taken much too soon at 42 years old. The hospital allowed me to go back and see J.P. one last time along with my brother-in-law, who was also there, and I’m glad for that. Death is hard to accept until you can actually see it. Just like that, my normal life turned upside down. I went from planning my son’s birthday party to planning my husband’s funeral. Please understand that I’m a regular, everyday person. We are a hard-working family. I want people to know this can happen to anyone. Somebody once said, “We must let go of the life we have planned, so as to accept the one that is waiting for us.” As horrible and as outraging as this murder is, I am using the experience to work for much-needed change in Memphis.
About J.P. I first got to know J.P. at Germantown High School, although he graduated one year behind me in 1990. We really got
wherever else they needed to be. He loved coming up with new hairstyles for our 4-year-old daughter, Emme, and he would send me pictures of his creations. I fully believe God gave our family that precious year with J.P. as a stay-at-home dad. It was a gift before he was taken from us. J.P. was an outstanding father and all-around family man. He was basically a regular guy. He loved his friends, and he enjoyed hobbies such as gourmet cooking, gardening and hunting. In high school, he was named the “wittiest” of his graduating class. He wanted to live a normal lifestyle, and that’s what we had. It’s heartbreaking to think that total strangers could rob J.P. of his life and rob our children of their daddy. The day he died, I came home to a huge birthday cake and everything J.P. had laid out for Palmer’s party. He was ready to come home that day and celebrate, and I stared at the party favor bags for weeks.
These times of sadness, of mourning and of outrage are times when we need to stand together. Outpouring of support
better acqainted through a mutual friend after college, and then we worked in Colorado’s Keystone Resort together. We fell in love and got married months later.
Just like that, my normal life turned upside down. I went from planning my son’s birthday party to planning my husband’s funeral. J.P. was dyslexic, so he wasn’t considered “book smart.” That’s how he got into investment properties and fixing up houses. He was always very talented with any kind of mechanical work or building. He could make just about anything, whether remodeling a bathroom or making the kids a pen for their pet turtles. About a year ago, he quit his regular job to take care of his terminally ill father, spending valuable time throughout the last month of his dad’s life. Over the past year before J.P. was killed, he took care of the children full time while I went back to work at Southwind. He drove them to karate, gymnastics, birthday parties and
I have chosen to focus on positive things throughout this tragedy. While the murder showed me the worst in humanity, what has happened since has shown me the best. Friends have banded together to bring me meals, mow my grass, and even clean my house. They help take care of my children and handle the logistics of carpooling. Anything I need has been taken care of. Robert Wilkie, a homicide sergeant in the Memphis Police Department, has been absolutely incredible. Jim Reedy of Memphis Investment Properties has gone above and beyond, too, helping raise the $25,000 reward to find the killers. Pastor Matt Surber at Central Church in Collierville continues to offer our family much-needed support. There are countless other friends, family members and generous supporters, and I can’t even begin to name them all. Just know your love and prayers mean the world to my family and me. Our Facebook page, In Loving Memory of J.P. Shelley, logged more than 1,000 “likes” within the first 24 hours of its creation. After one week, it logged more than 5,000. It has been so uplifting to get encouragement from across the state, nation and world. The news media have been fair and balanced, too, and they have helped shed light on J.P.’s life and death. But I feel like I have to be my husband’s PR person because he’s not here to speak for himself.
The aftermath Since J.P.’s murder, I’ve been working hard to find my new normal. As I write this, the murder trial has not yet begun, but I pray that justice will be served. Our family was ripped apart that day in October, but I’m focused on healing and being the best mom I can be to my children. So many things are out of my hands. Continued on next page January 2014 15
Although the Shelleys knew each other in high school, it wasn’t until after college and working a mutual job that they headed down the path to family life. Bev Shelley remembers her huband, J.P., as a wizard with tools and a committed family man. Photos courtesy of Bev Shelley and Jennifer Brezina
Continued from previous page I’m not a hateful person, and I don’t want this horrific event to take over my family’s life.
It’s heartbreaking to think that total strangers could rob J.P. of his life and rob our children of their daddy. The sad thing is that this is all going to happen again if somebody doesn’t do something and get help for these children of Memphis. I don’t know what the answer is on stopping all the crime, because it seems like so many areas need attention. Truancy laws must be enforced. Shelby County Schools has to figure out a way to better handle juvenile delinquents and protect the other precious, deserving children. Parents everywhere need to step up and be aware of their children’s behavior. We need to invest in programs that will improve public safety and get more killers off the streets. J.P was very much loved. And he loved, too. J.P. went to that house in Hickory Hill looking for opportunity and a way to help his family. Please keep us in your prayers. Pray for peace in our family’s life. Remember J.P. and the loving man he was. These times of sadness, of mourning and of outrage are times when we need to stand together. If you would like to make a donation to Bev Shelley and her children, a family fund is set up through Metropolitan Bank. You can send your donation to Shelley Family Fund, Metropolitan Bank , 1661 Aaron Brenner Drive Memphis, TN, 38120. Jennifer Brezina of Germantown, and a frequent contributor to Germantown Life magazine, helped coordinate this story and its photos.
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January 2014 17
The Red Cross Explained This non-government agency does a lot more than meets the eye — and it’s looking for local volunteers as part of its ‘JOIN THE 1,000’ push.
Air Force soldiers help with relief efforts in Moore, Okla., which was struck by a savage tornado last May. Photo courtesy of the American Red Cross
by Robert W. Wallace Community contributor
R
esponding to disasters is the business of the American Red Cross. Chartered by the U.S. Congress but not a government agency, the Red Cross is responsible for coming to the aid of those who have been affected by disasters.
Depending on the situation, the Red Cross will provide shelter, food, water, limited financial help, cleanup supplies and disaster medical and mental health support. Its mission is to address the immediate humanitarian needs of those who have been displaced from their homes and to help them recover and resume their normal lives.
A helping hand In the fall of 2012, thousands of Red Cross volunteers left their families and jobs for weeks at a time to help residents of New Jersey, New York and Connecticut in recovering from Hurricane Sandy. In addition to these high-profile disasters, the Red Cross responds to more than 70,000 day-to-day disasters per year, such as home fires, transportation accidents, floods, tornadoes, explosions and hazardous material spills. 18 January 2014
The Red Cross does all of this with a work force that is 96 percent volunteer and with generous financial support from donors. Here in the Mid-South, we have a strong and dedicated core of Red Cross volunteers, who, on average, respond to two home fires everyday and who are trained to respond to many other disaster situations when they occur. Elaine Clyburn is one of those MidSouth volunteers.
Clyburn first came to the Red Cross in 1969 as a hospital field director during the Vietnam War. In this role she served as a Red Cross advocate for military personnel and as a communications link between service personnel and people back in the United States. A few years after serving in Vietnam, Clyburn resigned as a paid Red Cross staffer to take a teaching position at Colorado State University. There she taught in the newly emerging social work program and was instrumental in setting curriculum standards for the then-developing profession. Later she moved to Erie, Pa., where she was the head of the social work program at Villa Marie College. During those years of academic life, Clyburn maintained her relationship with the Red Cross as a volunteer, a role that she holds in high esteem. “A Red Cross volunteer is a pay grade, not a job description. We don‘t pay volunteers because they are useless;
we don’t attempt to pay them because they are priceless,” says Clyburn. Clyburn returned to the Red Cross as a paid staffer in 1989. Three years later she moved to Memphis as a Red Cross disaster response planner responsible for earthquake preparedness. Clyburn is just one of the many volunteers who make up the Mid-South Chapter of the American Red Cross. To read about some of the others, go to the Mid-South Chapter blog site at www. midsouthredcross.wordpress.com. There, in addition to profiles of some of our volunteers, you will also find articles about the experiences some have had while deployed to help with national disasters. You, too, can be a Red Cross volunteer. The Mid-South Chapter currently has a major push to enroll and train 1,000 new volunteers. The first step to becoming a volunteer is to log on to the Mid-South Chapter’s website at redcross.org/tn/memphis. Click on the “Join the 1000” link on the “Volunteer” page and fill out a volunteer application. Your skills could lead you to become a driver of an emergency vehicle, to answer phone calls and assist with office work, provide disaster medical or mental health support, to work in Red Cross human resources, or to be a member of a Disaster Action Team and provide assistance to families displaced by home fires. Whether you are willing to deploy for weeks at a time to assist in the recovery after major national disasters, or want to remain in the Mid-South area, you will be most welcome. Robert Wallace of Germantown is a Red Cross volunteer.
Red Cross volunteer nurse Laurel Schneider takes the blood pressure of Moore resident Alexandria Fenlason during the tornado’s aftermath. Photo courtesy of the American Red Cross
1881
Clara Barton founded the Red Cross after visiting Europe and witnessing the actions of the Swissbased organization.
In 1900 the American Red Cross received its first congressional charter, followed by another in 1905, the year after Barton finally resigned her post. The most recent charter was adopted in 2007. It lays out the organization’s puposes, which are to provide relief during disasters and to serve as a communications medium between members of the armed forces and their families. —Lindsay Jones
Volunteers What they do Red Cross volunteers work with a volunteer specialist and receive specialized training to choose their career path within the local chapter. Some volunteer paths include disaster response volunteers, preparedness education instructors, shelter team volunteers and an array of other opportunities. Not only is the personalized training free, but incentives for volunteers who meet a minimum volunteer requirement are also available, such as CPR/First Aid/AED training along with a host of others. —Information courtesy of the American Red Cross, Mid-South Chapter
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Volunteer Rick Burrett talks to a child who escaped the Arizona wildfires in July. Photo courtesy of the American Red Cross
January 2014 19
The Case for Girls Schools Girls learn differently than boys and must be taught accordingly, says Hutchison head of school. by Dr. Annette C. Smith Community contributor
H
utchison School is a school for girls, not merely a school without boys. From current research and knowledge gained from educating girls for more than a century, we understand that girls learn differently than boys. So we employ teaching strategies that work best for the way girls think, learn and interact.
We capitalize on their strong verbal and writing abilities, emphasize mathematical and scientific skills and empower them to find and use their voices with confidence. We also support an environment that balances collaboration and competition, while providing an ethical context for lifelong leadership and service, among many other things. Current research supports what
Hutchison has known all along — girls school graduates have a competitive edge over their coed peers.
The advantage Recently, UCLA’s Higher Education Research Institute released the results of a study commissioned by the National Coalition of Girls Schools, offering the first-ever, peer-reviewed research on the benefits of an all-girls education. It found that girls school graduates rank their abilities and self-confidence above average or in the top 10 percent. They also have more confidence in their math and computer abilities. They feel more prepared for the academic challenges of college, consider college a stepping stone to graduate school and are twice as likely to earn a doctoral degree. They’re also six times more likely to pursue a career in math, science, technology or engineering. These findings are consistent with a
An all-girls education can help students achieve a greater level of confidence in future endeavors. Photos courtesy of Hutchison School
20 January 2014
U.S. Department of Education report that concludes an all-girls education creates a better climate for learning, resulting in greater academic achievement, higher standardized test scores and a greater sense of academic ability. While self-esteem — the No. 1 predictor of a girl’s future success — is at an all-time low nationally, graduates of girls schools report feeling more confident and self-reliant than their peers. In a single-gender environment, the dynamics shift. Without the distraction of boys, a girl’s time in the classroom is spent learning. She finds her voice as she answers questions and expresses herself, free from the worry about how a boy might perceive her. At Hutchison, our top scholars, student council presidents and star athletes are always girls. By engaging in a wealth of opportunities that allow them to excel, lead, compete and take healthy risks, our girls internalize the message that they truly can become what they aspire to be. Contrary to the belief that a singlegender education may render a girl illprepared for a coed life, research shows that girls school graduates are actually better equipped to succeed in a coed world, with many feeling more confident when interacting with male peers, professors and colleagues. At Hutchison, we understand that forming positive working and social relationships with boys is an important aspect of a girl’s development, and provide our girls with opportunities to participate in Co-Edge, our coordinating program with adjacent Memphis University School. The Co-Edge program offers classes, fine arts collaborations, leadership development initiatives and community service efforts — all while maintaining the proven advantages of single-gender education. For more information about Hutchison, please visit hutchisonschool.org or call 901-762-6667. Additional research on the advantages of an all-girls education can be found at www.ncgs.org. —Dr. Annette C. Smith has been head of school at Hutchison for 13 years.
In Focus: Education
The Case for Boys Schools Memphis University School and other all-male schools focus their energies on the ways boys learn best, says Headmaster Ellis Haguewood. by Ellis Haguewood Community contributor Memphis University School is, deliberately and purposely, a school for boys, as it has been since our founding in 1893. But why a boys’ school? Why do we believe so strongly in single-sex education? We know that girls and boys learn differently. At an all-boys school, we have the advantage of concentrating our resources on the psychological, academic and emotional needs that boys have during their adolescent years (grades 7-12). Evidence indicates that boys in the United States have become increasingly disengaged in school, while girls are excelling and outpacing boys, including in college enrollment. Photo courtesy of MUS
Boys, oh boys Jessica Lahey, an English, Latin and writing teacher in New Hampshire who writes about education and parenting for The New York Times, has come to a similar conclusion. In a recent article published in The Atlantic about learning style variances between boys and girls, she wrote: “While I love teaching boys, many of my colleagues do not, particularly during the hormone-soaked, energetic and distracted middle- and high-school years. Teachers and school administrators lament that boys are too fidgety, too hyperactive, too disruptive, derailing the educational process for everyone while sabotaging their own intellectual development.” In our view, these characteristics do not indicate what’s wrong with boys, but rather what’s wrong with an educational system that does not accommodate them. In general boys’ brains are more geared toward spatial-mechanical tasks than girls, so they learn well by manipulating objects. Boys thrive with more space and prefer individual to group work.
About the Author Ellis Haguewood, who joined the faculty of Memphis University School in 1969, has served as headmaster since 1995. He also has served as director of student activities, dean of students, director of summer school and Upper School principal.
They also tend to show frustration through anger and need more guidance to channel that anger and discipline themselves. Boys are inclined to be less sensitive to nuances and respond better to logical constructs. Boys tend to be performance-oriented and less relational. At MUS our full attention is given to how boys learn best in general, but also, with a 15-to-1 student-to-classroom teacher ratio, on how each boy learns best individually.
In a school for boys, students cannot relinquish moral, organizational or artistic leadership to girls. At MUS, if we want community service, boys must provide it. If we want art, music and theater, boys must create them. If we want moral leadership in support of our Honor Code and our Student Creed, boys must furnish it. If we want to build a caring, generous, tolerant, compassionate community, boys must build it. And they do. Our boys take advantage of a greater freedom to risk, achieve and take on leadership roles in areas that society might suggest should be the exclusive province of one gender or the other. In a boys’ school, the easy exchange of ideas and the friendships made in the classroom, on the playing fields, during community service projects or on the stage foster bonds that endure long after graduation. We have observed how deep friendships and personal loyalty to the school come easily in this collegial atmosphere. As trustee Mark Halperin (Class of 1967) put it, “Other than my family and religion, MUS has had the greatest impact on my life. Many of my most cherished relationships and business contacts originated at MUS.” Because we are a school for boys, we can offer a rigorous education in an environment in which emotional energy is not directed toward posturing for the opposite sex. Students are free from the rivalry and distraction inherent in a coed environment, and they spend less time focusing on dress or hair or appearance. We at MUS simply believe the singlegender model is the best way to go about educating our students — our boys. Because we specialize in boys, the school’s administration and faculty understand them better and are best equipped to meet their unique developmental needs. January 2014 21
22 January 2014
Gotta go!
S e e. D o. E n j oy.
Shen Yun Puts Focus on Chinese Culture
Jan. 4-5
T
hrough live orchestral music and dance, Shen Yun weaves a wondrous tapestry of heavenly realms, ancient legends and modern heroic tales, taking audience members on a journey through 5,000 years of Chinese culture at The Cannon Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Memphis. The production’s stunning beauty and tremendous energy leave visitors uplifted and inspired. A Shen Yun performance features classically trained dancers, a unique orchestra blending East and West and dazzling animated backdrops that make for a fast-moving entertainment experience. Show times are at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 4, and 2 p.m. the following day. Tickets range from $50-$120. For more information, call the Cannon Center box office at 901-576-1269 or visit shenyunperformingarts.org/memphis. Photo courtesy of The Cannon Center for the Performing Arts
Jan. 24
Jan. 3-26
Jan. 25
Photo courtesy of GPAC
Photo courtesy of hibu
Photo courtesy of GPAC
Aspects of Love Explored During ‘Almost, Maine’
Mambazo Group Brings South Africa to the Mid-South
Manhattan Jazz Musician to Light up G’town
On a cold moonless night in the mythical town of Almost, Maine, it seems like everyone is falling in and out of love. Four actors play multiple characters in vignettes in which the human heart is explored in all its mysteries at TheatreWorks, 1705 Poplar Ave., in Memphis. Performance times and ticket prices were not specified by press time.
Ladysmith Black Mambazo fuses the rhythms and harmonies of South African musical traditions with the sounds of gospel. The group became famous after being featured on Paul Simon’s landmark recording “Graceland,” but is now celebrating more than 50 years as peace and culture ambassadors. Show starts at 8 p.m. Ticket prices vary.
Jazz pianist John Batiste brings his distinct voice all the way from New York, where his mix of musical genres and influences have made him a popular figure on the music scene. Raised among the rhythms of New Orleans, Batiste has transcended a specific label other than as a jazz musician. Show starts at 8 p.m. Ticket prices vary.
theatreworksmemphis.org 901-274-7139
gpacweb.com 901-751-7500
gpacweb.com 901-751-7500 January 2014 23
Advice
Survive, Thrive in Workplace Good social skills can get you where you want to go. by Patti Cherry Community contributor
I
n my years of experience in human relations, the main issue I see is this: Many people find social interaction clumsy or difficult in different companies. This is true from the board room to the reception area and beyond in almost every organization. I’ve often wondered how so many people end up at a job just trying to muddle through. I have come to realize it’s because many of us haven’t had the opportunity to learn good communication and social skills at home or in school. We first acquire knowledge of how to communicate and interact with
other people within our families, and let’s face it — we don’t always develop the best communication and social interaction skills at home. No one is really to blame for this. Our parents or caregivers did the best they knew how. Unfortunately, some people do not learn from their parents or caregivers how to talk with each other, how to treat each other with respect or how to value and embrace the differences of others. The lack of these very basic but important skills often comes back to haunt us when we find ourselves among others in the workplace. But with some nudges in a better direction, communication skills can be improved.
Patti Cherry is president of the People-Results Connection, a human resource firm that helps companies in Germantown. Photo courtesy of Patty Cherry
Like Anything Else, People Skills Are Learned by Patti Cherry Community contributor When we first get to school, we’re focused on reading, writing and arithmetic. Good communication skills aren’t usually addressed by most teachers. But those skills go a long way in helping us become competent, successful adults. We all learn to look at the world through different lenses and to filter information at a very young age. We categorize some things as “good” and some as “bad”. We see ourselves as “normal,” and others behaving differently as “not normal”. We sometimes end up being bullied or becoming bullies ourselves. Ultimately, we bring our dysfunctional social skills with us to the workplace. We have conversations with others that sometimes deteriorate into heated discussions. We get angry or shut down and, either way, things do not get resolved. We end up avoiding each other, avoiding having those critical conversations we know we should have, and our issues continue to fester. Social competence begins at a very young age Then we wonder why we are not successful. People run organizations. If they don’t know how to create bonds and work as teams, our companies may never and can affect us later in life. Photo courtesy of hibu reach their full potential. When employees feel empowered, respected and enthusiastic about their jobs, it translates to results, and ultimately success. My company, People-Results Connection, works with companies large and small to help create more dynamic environments. Owners of many early-stage organizations are so busy and focused on business results that they don’t have the time, know-how, or perhaps both, to lay the foundation for creating powerful, positive employee relationships. We help those organizations in building for future growth. We help set the stage for creating enthusiastic, engaged employees who take ownership in their work and exert that extra effort to help their organizations excel. And it’s all done through improving social skills. —Patti Cherry may be reached at 901-490-4913. 24 January 2014
Send us your photos Germantown@hibu.com magname@hibu.com
G’town High Harnesses Its Kid Power
Rated one of America’s Best high schools by Newsweek, Germantown High is usually bustling with a long list of activities for its nearly 2,000 students. Check out some of their recent doings here. Below left, members of the GHS International Baccalaureate program are shown at a senior pinning ceremony in October. Next is the GHS Model United Nations team showing off some recent awards and, right, the Lady Red Devil Varsity Soccer Team celebrates the end of a season. Photos courtesy of Germantown High School
Left, members of the GHS Knowledge Bowl team recently competed in a history bowl. The A team reached the varsity semifinals and the B team won the junior varsity championship. Middle, senior members of the Red Devil Marching Band are shown prior to being recognized at senior night. Right, band members perform at a recent football game. Photos courtesy of Germantown High School
January 2014 25
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UPCOMING events
Schedules are subject to change. Call venues to confirm event information.
Let us know about any coming events. Email us at Germantown@hibu.com. December
Friday 20 Evening Line Dances 7 - 10 p.m. WHERE: The Pickering Center, 7771 Poplar Pike, Germantown PRICE: $4 INFO: Call Regina Allen at 901-751-5656 or email regina@ germantown-tn.gov.
Saturday 21 Lucero Family Christmas 7 p.m.
WHAT: Join the Memphis Symphony Orchestra for this annual favorite and family tradition. WHERE: The Cannon Center for the Performing Arts, 255 S. Main, Memphis INFO: Call 901-537-2525 or email tickets@memphissymphony.org.
WHERE: Agricenter International, 7777 Walnut Grove Road, Memphis PRICE: $3 general admission; children 12 and younger get in free INFO: Call 901-276-3532 or visit memphisfleamarket.com.
FAMILY
Thursday 26 Games Day 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Saturday 21 Johnny Mathis Concert 7 p.m. WHAT: Performance by the grammy award-winning singer/ songwriter. WHERE: The Orpheum Theatre, 203 S. Main St., Memphis PRICE: $40, $60, $75, $90, $110, $125 INFO: Call 901-525-3000 or visit orpheum-memphis.com.
WHAT: Don’t miss the American country-punk-rock stylings of Lucero as they are joined by Dead Soldiers for a holiday concert at Minglewood Hall. WHERE: Minglewood Hall, 1555 Madison Ave., Memphis INFO: Call 901-312-6058 or visit minglewoodhall.com.
FAMILY
Saturday 21 Home for the Holidays Concert 2:30 p.m.
Saturday 21-22 Memphis Flea Market: “The Big One” 8 a.m.
FAMILY
WHERE: The Pickering Center, 7771 Poplar Pike, Germantown PRICE: $10 INFO: Punch card includes 10 classes. Bring a lunch. Call 751-5656 or email regina@germantown-tn. gov.
Saturday 28 Mid-South Swap & Meet Flea Market 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
901-751-5656 or email regina@ germantown-tn.gov.
FOOD Thursday 2 Economic Development Commission 5:30 p.m. WHERE: Economic & Community Development Building, Blue Room, 1920 S. Germantown Road, Germantown INFO: For a meeting agenda, call 901-757-7200 or visit germantowntn.gov.
Friday 3 Registration Deadline Business hours
WHAT: Vendors offer new and used merchandise including trading cards, collectibles, antiques, jewelry, electronics, clothing, furniture, gardening supplies and more. WHERE: The Arena at Southaven, 7360 U.S. Highway 51, Southaven INFO: Call 901-412-6195 or visit southaven.org.
WHAT: This is the day registration closes for Challenger Basketball. The league is for boys and girls ages 6-16 and activities are held at the Germantown Elementary School Gym, 2730 Cross Country. WHERE: Registration is at the city Parks and Recreation Office, 2276 West St. PRICE: $35 INFO: Call Craig Melton at 901757-7292 or email cmelton@ germantown-tn.gov.
FAMILY
FAMILY
Tuesday 31 55th AutoZone Liberty Bowl Time not specified
Wednesday 8 Saturday 11 Elvis Birthday Week Celebration Times vary
WHAT: Join more than 60,00 die-hard fans for this annualsports tradition. WHERE: Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium, 335 S. Hollywood, Memphis INFO: Call 901-795-7700 or visit autozonelibertybowl.org.
FAMILY
January
Thursday 2 Senior Potluck and Bingo Noon - 2 p.m. WHAT: Bring a gift worth $1 and a main dish or dessert. WHERE: The Pickering Center, 7771 Poplar Pike, Germantown PRICE: $1 INFO: Call Regina Allen at
WHAT: Elvis fans from around the world will make their way to Graceland to celebrate the King’s birthday with a number of planned events. WHERE: Graceland, 3734 Elvis Presley Blvd., Memphis INFO: Call 800-238-2000 or visit elvis.com.
Friday 10 - Sunday 19 Musical of Musicals Times vary WHAT: Five short musical parodies that pay homage to the style of Rodgers and Hamerstein, Stephen Sondheim, Kander and Ebb, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Jerry Herman. WHERE: Theatre Memphis, 630 Perkins Extended, Memphis
Tell us what you
think@ hibumagazine.com/survey January 2014 27
UPCOMING events
Schedules are subject to change. Call venues to confirm event information.
Let us know about any coming events. Email us at Germantown@hibu.com. INFO: Call 901-368-6872.
Jan. 16-18 • Times vary
FAMILY
Check Out ‘The Mikado’ WHAT: Witty and satirical romp of disguised noblemen, corrupt bureaucrats and love conquering all. WHERE: Germantown Performing Arts Center, 1801 Exeter Road, Germantown Photo courtesy of Opera Memphis
PRICE: Musical price is $28/general admission or $23 for non-musicals. Students with valid I.D. get in for $15 and children 12 and younger are charged $10. INFO: Call 901-682-8323 or visit theatrememphis.org.
Saturday 11 Fresh Beat Band 5 p.m. WHAT: Nickelodeon’s popular preschool music group is making its way to The Orpheum, performing hits from seasons one, two and three. WHERE: The Orpheum Theatre, 203 S. Main St., Memphis PRICE: $29.50, $39.50, $139.50 INFO: Call 901-525-3000 or visit orpheum-memphis.com.
FAMILY Saturday 11 Elvis Birthday Pops 7:30 p.m. WHAT: It’s Elvis’ birthday season again and the Memphis Symphony Orchestra performs its interpretation of the songs that helped bring Memphis the distinction as the home of Rock ‘n’ Roll. WHERE: The Cannon Center for the Performing Arts, 255 S. Main, Memphis INFO: Call 901-537-2525, visit memphissymphony.org or email tickets@memphissymphony.org
FAMILY Thursday 16 An Evening with Molly Ringwald 7 p.m. WHAT: The iconic star of ’80s hits like “Sixteen Candles” and “The Breakfast Club” sings from her new jazz album “Except ... Sometimes. WHERE: The Buckman Performing
28 January 2014
INFO: For more information, call 901-257-3100. Arts Center at St. Mary’s Episcopal School, 60 Perkins Extended, Memphis INFO: Call 901-537-1472 or visit stmarysschool.org/thebuckman.
FAMILY Thursday 16 Saturday 18 The Mikado 7:30 p.m. WHAT: The pinnacle of the legendary collaboration between W.S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan is this witty and satirical romp of disguised noblemen, corrupt bureaucrats and love triumphing over all. WHERE: Germantown Performing Arts Center, 1801 Exeter Road, Germantown INFO: Call 901-257-3100 or visit operamemphis.org.
crystalballgala.org.
FOOD sunday 19 Mid-South Wedding Show Times not specified WHAT: Brides-to-be and their loved ones are invited to this one-stop shop for planning the perfect wedding. WHERE: Whispering Woods Hotel & Conference Center, 11200 Goodman Road, Olive Branch
Tuesday 21 Saturday 25 International Blues Challenge Times vary WHAT: The Blues Foundation will present the 30th International Blues Challenge, among other exciting activities. WHERE: The Orpheum Theatre, 203 S. Main, Memphis INFO: Call 901-527-2583 or visit blues.org.
Thursday 23 Games Day 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. WHERE: The Pickering Center, 7771 Poplar Pike, Germantown PRICE: $10 INFO: Punch card includes five classes. Bring a lunch. Call Regina
FAMILY Friday 17 Evening Line Dances 7 - 10 p.m. WHAT: Music provided by Larry Logan. WHERE: Pickering Center, 7771 Poplar Pike, Germantown PRICE: $4 INFO: Call Regina Allen at 901751-5656 or email her at regina@ germantown-tn.gov.
Saturday 18 Crystal Ball 6 p.m. WHAT: Benefits the Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi. Includes dinner, dancing, and live and silent auctions. WHERE: The Arena at Southaven, 7360 U.S. Highway 51, Southaven PRICE: $150 INFO: Call 662-449-5002 or visit
Germantown@hibu.com
Allen at 901-751-5656 or email her at regina@germantown-tn.gov.
stmarysschool.org/thebuckman.
FAMILY
INFO: Call 901-726-4656 or visit playhouseonthesquare.org.
Friday 24 Sid the Science Kid 6:30 p.m.
Friday 24 Ladysmith Black Mambazo 8 p.m.
Friday 24 - Feb. 9 “Death of a Salesman” Times vary
WHAT: Join the gang as they discover the excitement and curiosities of the world. Make plans to come early for fun pre-show activities. WHERE: The Orpheum Theatre, 203 S. Main St., Memphis INFO: Call 901-525-3000 or visit orpheum-memphis.com.
FAMILY Friday 24 Tiempo Libre 8 p.m. WHAT: Three-time Grammy nominated Cuban crossover band performs its classical, jazz, world and Cuban music. WHERE: The Buckman Performing Arts Center at St. Mary’s Episcopal School, 60 Perkins Extended, Memphis INFO: Call 901-537-1472 or visit
WHAT: An international sensation, Ladysmith Black Mambazo fuses the intricate rhythms and harmonies of South Africa with the sounds and sentiments of gospel music. WHERE: Germantown Performing Arts Center, 1801 Exeter Road, Germantown INFO: Call 901-751-7500 or visit gpacweb.com.
WHAT: Willy Loman is a tortured soul hoping for a better life for his wife and sons. But reconciliation will come at a price as a secret is revealed. WHERE: Theatre Memphis, 630 Perkins Extended, memphis INFO: Call 901-682-8323 or visit theatrememphis.org.
FAMILY
Saturday 25 Tchaikovsky Pathétique 7:30 p.m.
Friday 24 Monty Python’s Spamalot Times vary WHAT: The winner of the 2005 Tony Award for Best Musical and the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding New musical is based on the 1975 film “Monty Python and the Holy Grail.” WHERE: Playhouse on the Square, 66 S. Cooper, Memphis
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FAMILY
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FAMILY Tuesday 28 Romeo and Juliet 7 p.m.
WHAT: Performance by the Memphis Symphony Orchestra. WHERE: The Cannon Center for the Performing Arts, 255 S. Main, Memphis INFO: Call 901-537-252, visit memphissymphony.org or email tickets@memphissymphony.org.
FAMILY
FAMILY
Saturday 25 Piano Adventure 9:30 a.m.
Wednesday 29 Friday 30 “Wicked” 7:30 p.m.
WHAT: Grab your maps and let’s take a journey around the globe with the piano as your guide. WHERE: Germantown Performing Arts Center, 1801 Exeter Road, Germantown INFO: Call 901-751-7500 or visit gpaceweb.com.
FAMILY Saturday 25 Jonathan Batiste 8 p.m. WHAT: Jazz pianist Jonathan Batiste has ignited the New York City music scene by transcending musical genres with his distinct voice, consummate piano chops and dapper sense of style. WHERE: Germantown Performing Arts Center, 1801 Exeter Road, Germantown INFO: Call 901-751-7500 or visit gpacweb.com.
FAMILY
WHAT: Meet two girls from the Land of Oz long before Dorothy arrives in Munchkinland. Winner of 35 major awards, “Wicked” is Broadway’s biggest blockbuster, according to the New York Times. WHERE: The Orpheum Theatre, 203 S. Main St., Memphis INFO: Call 901-525-3000 or visit orpheum-memphis.com.
FAMILY Friday 31 Opus One: Big Star 7:30 p.m. WHAT: Rolling Stone magazine called Memphis’ Big Star the “quintessential American power pop band.” Their influence on music has created one of the greatest cult followings in rock and roll. WHERE: Levitt Shell, 1928 Poplar, Memphis INFO: Call 901-537-2525, visit memphissymphony.org or email tickets@memphissymphony.org.
FAMILY
EAST MEMPHIS
901-766-9004 901-859-3565 www.laurensmemphishomes.com Lauren-Harkins Memphis-TN-Realtor
WHAT: It’s been 12 years since this affable singer has played at BPAC. His clever songs and lyrics will make you laugh as he rotates between guitar, banjo and piano. WHERE: Bartlett Performing Arts and Conference Center, 3663 Appling Road, Bartlett INFO: Call 901-385-6440 or visit cityofbartlett.org.
WHAT: Experience Shakespeare’s full-bodied love story as if for the first time with Stephanie Shine at the helm and a professional cast from around the country on stage. WHERE: Germantown Performing Arts Center, 1801 Exeter Road, Germantown INFO: Call 901-751-7500 or visit gpacweb.com.
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Saturdaty 25 Livingston Taylor Concert 8 p.m.
Tell us what you
think@ hibumagazine.com/survey January 2014 29
and another thing . . . Language Is Still Important, Especially in Media Just because a Twitter and Facebook society has arisen doesn’t mean it’s right. by E.W. “Bill” Brody Community contributor Grammar, spelling and punctuation are deteriorating with increasing speed among the mass media of Shelby and adjacent counties. From the outside looking in, it’s impossible to pinpoint the origins of the problems. Neither can one accurately measure their impact on readers, viewers or listeners. It’s nevertheless logical to suspect that deterioration Brody is a retired journalist. Photo courtesy of Bill Brody continues at an accelerating pace. Legacy media — print and electronic — have suffered economically as readers and viewers spend more time with Facebook, Twitter and other socalled social media. They have responded with staff reductions, especially among more skilled writers, editors and commentators. You might have noticed, for example, that local television news today consists of little more than crime and disaster. Viewers come away believing conditions are worse than an admittedly deteriorating reality because station staffs are too small to permit their showing the real community. Crime and disaster news are readily available through public agencies or networks at little or no cost. Trained editors and reporters are needed to explain what’s really going on in the chambers of the community’s governing bodies.
Dumbed down — and out There can be no doubt that these changes encourage accelerating qualitative and quantitative decay in media language quality and in the language skills of their audiences, especially young people. Consider a recent headline in a daily newspaper: “Republicans making Obama’s health care law its next target.” A plural subject (Republicans) requires a plural verb — “their” rather than “its.” Correcting the problem would require substituting words and reducing the size of the type, however, and one or both demand more time and skill and increase production costs. The larger problem admittedly has been compounded by other factors, notably a deterioration in language as well as mathematical skills among public school graduates. One can expect nothing less where administrators require automatic 30 January 2014
promotion of first, second and third graders regardless of their knowledge and skill levels. It’s to be hoped that community schools scheduled to open next year in Shelby County’s suburban municipalities will establish more rigorous standards.
Grammar, spelling and punctuation are deteriorating with increasing speed among the mass media of Shelby and adjacent counties. Increasing diversity in primary and secondary schools worsens contemporary conditions as young people unknowingly dilute traditional English with multi-ethnic slang. Instructors further compound the problem by introducing usages from their own diverse backgrounds. Twitter’s message limitation (140 characters) adds frosting to the cake by encouraging users to create their own contractions and abbreviations. Overall, these conditions create a less than literate environment, producing a downward spiral in individual language skills — something that can’t help but limit job opportunities as young people attempt to launch careers. In a report focusing primarily on economic problems in the community, the Commercial Appeal in October quoted one of the report’s authors as suggesting that ethnic discrimination may be creating difficulties for non-whites in obtaining job interviews. I doubt that’s the case. Leaders in the business community for years have been complaining about their inability to find qualified personnel for virtually any job requiring more than manual labor. Where language skills are required and are less prevalent among ethnic minorities, finding and screening candidates become more time-consuming and thus more costly. In the circumstances described above, employers well might be inclined to interview a larger percentage of whites to make hiring processes more efficient and economical. These and similar difficulties arise out of soluble problems. The community need only ensure that high school graduates can use the English language, handle basic mathematical chores and be even better qualified for skilled employment after completing a college or university degree. You and I, in turn, should demand nothing less from those we elect to public office or appoint to maintain a competitive educational system. And we should apply the same standards to the media that influence the literacy of our young people.
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