Southern Soul - May 2015

SouthernSoul May 2015 | Volume 2, No. 5

Entrepreneurs Take Control Of Their Future One Angel And Tomboy At A Time

Mid-South Family Style

Barbecue Prepared With Love!

Mid-South

Made

Hunger should not be a part of growing old.

Mid-South Food Bank provides nourishment and hope to area seniors who struggle to get enough to eat to stay healthy.

901.527.0841

| midsouthfoodbank.org

At Regional One Health, your well-being means everything to us. It’s our mission to improve it any way we can. Our team of healthcare professionals is dedicated to providing compassionate care along with remarkable, new services. It’s not just our job to advance the quality of life in our community. It’s what we love to do.

RegionalOneHealth.org Southern Soul l May 2015

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Just a few of the Breakout Sessions…

Expository Preaching Conflict, Controversy & Opposition within the Church reMoving the Female Mask Let’s Talk Church & Law God, Love & Hip-Hop Do Black Lives Matter? Social injustice and the Black Church A Preacher’s Syntax

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Southern Soul l May 2015

SouthernSoul PUBLISHER/CEO Chris Boyd

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Toni Blount Harvey

EXECUTIVE EDITOR B. Henderson

ART DIRECTOR Detric Stanciel

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Terri Smith Anderson

PHOTOGRAPHY Jay Adkins Bryant Reddick Annie Miller

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Judge Carolyn Wade Blackett John Doyle Erica Horton Kathy Kirk-Johnson Donna Ludwick Lee Pepper Lewis Alexandra Matlock Myron Mays Tarrin McGhee Dr. Frank E. Ray, Sr. LaTina Epps Thomas Douglass High Young Soul

Southern Soul Magazine™ is a monthly publication of MAAC Media Group, LLC and is distributed in locations throughout the Memphis/Mid-South area.

Annual subscriptions are available for $40.00 (twelve issues). Readership: 70,000 ©2015 by MAAC Media Group, LLC. All rights reserved. The publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials and does not return unsolicited materials to sender. Photography and images obtained for editorial usage is owned by Southern Soul Magazine and may not be released for commercial use such as in advertisements. Reproduction in whole or in part without the publisher’s consent is strictly prohibited. The opinions expressed herein are exclusively those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the positions or views of the editor or publisher. The publication of any advertisement in this issue does not constitute an endorsement of the advertiser’s products or services by this publication. Southern Soul Magazine™ is a trademark belonging to MAAC Media Group, LLC.

MAAC Media Group, LLC | PO Box 18100 | Memphis, TN 38181 Phone 901.366.SOUL (7685) www.thesouthernsoul.com

Contributors John Doyle

John Doyle, a native Memphian, is the Executive Director of both the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum at FedEx Forum (rocknsoul.org) and the Memphis Music Hall of Fame (memphismusichalloffame.com).

A graduate of Rhodes College, he worked in radio promotions and marketing prior to opening his own advertising agency and, then, working as Vice President of Programming for Memphis in May. He and his wife, Lynn, have one son, Bennett, who now also works in Memphis radio.

Kathy Kirk-Johnson

Kathy Kirk Johnson is an Attorney and Lifestyle Expert with an innate affinity for good food and stylish entertaining. She lives in in Cordova, Tennessee with her husband and two sons. Get more lifestyle tips from her website tastelifewithkat.com.

Alexandra Matlock

Alexandra Matlock, native of Medellín, Colombia, is President/Founder of ContigoCreative, a public relations and marketing agency, based in Memphis, specializing in Latino and larger Multicultural markets in Memphis, Nashville, Little Rock and Atlanta.

Myron Mays

Native Memphian, Myron Mays began broadcasting in 1994 at 20 years young playing Gospel during the week in Senatobia and playing R&B on weekends at WKRA-FM in Holly Springs. In 1995, Myron landed his first large market radio position at the legendary Gospel station WLOK-AM in Memphis. Over the years, Myron has dominated the airwaves with The Myron Mays Radio Show, delivering a mix of Soul Classics and Todays R&B, peppered with entertainment news and his own brand of hilarious commentary.

Myron can be heard weekly on Sunday, 2-4 p.m. on the What’s Happening Myron Radio Show, on AM990 KWAM. Myron also writes a weekly entertainment column at The New Tri-State Defender, Memphis’ only African American newspaper publication.

LaTina Epps Thomas

LaTina Epps Thomas is a Certified Vinyasa Yoga Instructor specializing in Corporate, Group and Private Yoga Instruction and Stress Management Seminars. She is also a Lifevantage Independent Distributor and is currently pursuing the profession Naturopathic Doctor. In her spare time, she and her husband, Darrell, like to travel.

For more information about yoga or naturopathic remedies contact her at www.facebook.com/justbeyoga or justbeyoga@outlook.com.

Erica Horton

Donna Ludwick Lee

Donna Ludwick Lee is a native New Yorker, married to a native Memphian and has been living in Memphis since 1980.

Mrs. Lee holds BS and MA degrees from St. Louis University, where she met husband. Donna is proud mom to twin daughters. She is currently a substitute/interim teacher with Shelby County Schools and formerly a teacher with the Memphis City Schools for 20 years. Donna has a beautiful voice which she graciously shares as a member of the Germantown Chorus and Oxford Civic Chorus.

Tarrin McGhee

Tarrin McGhee is the owner of Pique Public Relations, a full-service PR firm. McGhee has received several honors and recognition from several entities including the Memphis Urban League, Inc., the Black Business Directory, and, MPACT Memphis.

She is also a 2015 recipient of the Women of Excellence Award, presented by The New Tri-State Defender newspaper. Tarrin was featured in the Greater Memphis Chamber’s Crossroads Magazine (2009 and 2011); in the Memphis Flyer; (2010) and, in the Memphis Commercial Appeal.

Erica Horton’s journalism career began with the Scripps Howard Foundation-sponsored Teen Appeal newspaper where she wrote for a year, earned a journalism scholarship and followed with The University of Memphis (“U of M”) where she received a bachelor's of journalism from U of M’s College of Communications and Fine Arts. While at U of M, she was a contributing writer for the Daily Helmsman with more than 300 published features. Horton also held several internships including The Commercial Appeal; the Memphis Tourism Foundation and the City of Memphis Office of Youth Services, where she created and hosted (for two summers) a photography competition for middle and high school students. She also interned for the 2013 Excellence in Journalism (“EIJ”) Conference in Anaheim, Calif. hosted by the Society of Professional Journalists where Horton and ten other students managed the blog, featuring photos, video, blog posts and live social media feeds during the conference.

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Content

FEATURES MAY 2015

V O LU M E 2 • N O 5

IN the SOUL 61 CONCRETE

SLIDERS Memphis-Made

41 PRE-TEEN SIBLING

ENTREPRENEURS TAKE CONTROL OF THEIR FUTURE One Angel And Tomboy At A Time

47 MID-SOUTH -

FAMILY STYLE Barbecue Prepared With Love!

38 HONORING THE

PAST. ENVISIONING THE FUTURE Women’s Foundation Celebrates 20 Years of Service

68 SOUTHERN STYLE A Stroll Down Beale

57 MID-SOUTH MALTS Home-Brewing At Its Best

photography by CREATIVE SOUL PHOTOGRAPHY

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CONTENTS

29

MAY 2015

13

79

53

Editor’s Letter p.11 • Taste Life With Kat p.79 • uMATTER p.85

Departments 8

29

Latin Soul

53

Lifestyles

33

Hey Myron!

92

Spotlights

Latin Made in the Mid-South

Soul Seeds

Surviving Tough Times

13

Young Soul

Rodan, Larger Than Life

An Eye on Mid-South Generation X 17

The Break Up?

Legal View

Justice Delayed Is Not Justice Denied!!!

21

Fitness

Surviving Allergies, Colds and the Flu Naturally 25

The April 4th Foundation 85

uMATTER

Manassas High School

retroSOUL

Lady Soul

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Southern Soul l May 2015

Manassas High Alumni Class of 65 The NEW Tri-State Defender’s Annual WOE Awards

On Cover: Memphis Jookers - Tia Waller & Terrence "G- Nerd" Smith photography by Bryant Reddick

China & Silverware Glassware | Tables & Linens Tents | Archways | Fountains And much more for a memorable event.

2197 Central Ave. Memphis, TN 38104 901.276.7368 partyconcepts.net

Soul Seeds

Dr. Frank E. Ray, Sr. Senior Pastor, New Salem Baptist Church

Dr. Frank E. Ray, Sr. is a charismatic leader, a revered Bible scholar, published author, recognized orator and recording artist who serves as Senior Pastor of New Salem Baptist Church on South Parkway in Memphis, TN pastoring now for some forty-three years. He is also the president of God is Good Ministries which annually hosts the Frank Ray Expository Preaching Conference featuring some of the nation's most revered bible scholars and experts in church growth, law and management facilitators.

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Often referred to as the “Walking Bible,” Dr. Ray preaches the word of God with spirit-filled scriptural simplicity. Today, the scope of Dr. Ray’s preaching, teaching and singing is worldwide. Author of three inspirational books along with his radio, television and internet ministries, Dr. Ray is touching thousands of lives both here in America and abroad. Of his many works, the sermon, "What Do I Do Next?" is Dr. Ray's most requested message selling over 750,000 copies.

Coining the phrase, "God is Good All the Time and All the Time God is Good," Dr. Ray undoubtedly knows to God be the Glory. Visit God is Good Ministries website at www.godisgoodministries.net and be blessed by the Man of God's great works for the kingdom.

In early 2016, look for his new gospel cd release entitled, Trust God featuring the single, “What Do I Do Next?” inspired by his best-selling sermon and his latest book entitled, “And the Lord was with me.”

Soul Seeds

Surviving Tough Times

by DR. FRANK E. RAY, SR.

E

We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair.

2 Corinthians 4:8

Early this morning during my meditative period, I asked God to help me find the words that will encourage the readers of Southern Soul Magazine. He said, “tell them that even when they are going through what they are going through, I will give them a rest period before I put something else on them.” In II Corinthians 4:8, He says, “We are troubled on every side (comma) but not distressed; we are perplexed (comma) but not in despair.”

Every time a crisis comes in your life, God gives you a rest period or a (comma) before He allows you to go through something else. In other words, He prepares you for your next level. As you read these pieces of life nuggets while experiencing dark days, lonely nights, tough times when nothing seems to work for you or in your favor, let me just throw this out for free - It Won’t Last.

Abraham was tested by God. I am impressed with Abraham for several reasons because Abraham had gone through tough times. If you look at his life, Abraham had many difficulties. It seemed as though God would have stopped after one or two tests, but it continued to be one thing after another for Abraham.

The Bible says the Lord came to him and said “Abraham.” and Abraham answered “Here I am.”

God said “Take thine son, thine only son Isaac whom thou lovest and sacrifice him.” You see, the text says that God wanted Abraham to sacrifice his “only” son. It’s not hard to sacrifice a part, but when you have to sacrifice your “only” it gets a little harder. God did test Abraham. Abraham’s tests were designed to see how obedient he was to God.

know who you are. But, when tough times come, when your mortgage is in foreclosure; your car is repossessed; your student loan payment is now in default status; your spouse walks out on you; your kids - your son or daughter joins a gang; when loneliness and depression shows up at your door step with suitcases in hand; when there’s no medical cure for your disease; when your loved one is suddenly killed by a drunk driver; when all your hope is gone; and, you are ready to take your life . . . then, and only then, will you accept that God is the “only” answer.

Reading your horoscope, searching the web to find the answer on the internet, or texting somebody for their opinion will never give you the peace of mind you seek.

You have to steal away to a quiet place to bow down on your knees or just lay face down on the floor and wake up Jesus just to say “thank you” in the midst of your tests. You have to believe that regardless of the circumstance, God is still in the middle of the circle.

Notice in life, you will have some sunshine, but you will also have some rain. You will have some good days, but you will also have some bad days.

You will have some mountains, but you will have some valleys.

You will have some thorns, but you will also have some roses.

You will have some friends, but you will also have some enemies.

So don’t get caught up on one side or the other; you must remember that it all works together for your good. Just understand that God knows how to do what He wants to do whenever He gets ready to do it. He is not interested in a part of you. God wants all of you. You are receiving these words from a person that has been where you are. I’ve been down to my last. When I was there, I couldn’t see any farther than right there, but since I’ve gotten many tests behind me; I can tell you . . . with God’s grace, His goodness and His mercy, I’m here to tell you today . . . that tough times won’t last. §

God knows how to do what He wants to do whenever He gets ready to do it.

Likewise, God sends tests to us not for God to see where we are, but for us to see where we are. You see as long as the sun is shining sometimes you don’t know how weak you are. As long as you have a job to go to; a place to lay your head; friends to console with; a family you can lean on; health that you can depend on; sometimes you don’t

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Southern Soul O November

Events

2014

1, No. 3 November 2014 | Volume

Southern Sou

Are there Southern Soul Experiences We Should Cover?

Let us know! events@thesouthernsoul.com

l O Decemb er 2014

December

ul O

rn So

Southe y 2015

Januar

1, No. 3 November 2014/Volume

uMATTER: Ridgeway High

Soul Talks

2014 | Vo lume 1, No .4

Let’s Talk! Let us hear from you.

Send stories, inquiries, comments. soultalks@thesouthernsoul.com

THE FAMILY ISSUE Kirk Family Savory Soul Thanksgiving Januar y

50

e 1, No. 4

er 2014/Vo lum

Decemb

THE BAR-KAY S TURN

2015 | Volum e 2, No.

1

Soul Pics

See someone with soul?

Or, spot Southern Soul somewhere? Send us a pic! photos@thesouthernsoul.com

Hey Myron! y 2015

Januar /Volume 2, No. 1

ROAD TO

Six Phe THE FUTU nomen R al Teen E s

Got a Relationship question?

Email thoughts and questions to: myron@thesouthernsoul.com

Give Us Your Feedback. thesouthernsoul.com |

/southernsoulmag | 901.366.SOUL (7685)

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/southernsoulmag

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Editor’s Letter

Spring is in full blossom. The daylight is longer and the weather is clear. Just before you know it, June will be here. May is the month we mark our calendars to celebrate Mother’s Day. Retail gears up to sell women-designed items, churches and restaurants prepare for a packed Sunday, and young children grab their crayons to create a home-made card. For others, myself included, Mother’s Day is a difficult one.

Having lost my mom a few years back - on Mother’s Day, I find myself hopelessly yearning to hear her voice just one more time. . . But then, I shake it off and remember all the delightful memories of my mom and reflect on all the things she did (every day) to make my life (and my siblings) absolutely wonderful!

She woke us each morning singing “Good Morning to You!” and served breakfast with all our favorites such as grapefruit with a cherry on top! She taxied us to and from school, along with any other child needing a ride. And, she was the one to issue the week-long punishment when we stepped out of line. Mothers are special that way!

Here at Southern Soul Magazine, our publisher’s mom, Debra Boyd, keeps us in line; greets us every morning with a smile (and maybe breakfast), and reminds us of all the things we overlook… all done with love, caring and thoughtfulness.

May is also the month our community transforms into MemphisIn-May extraordinaire. The worlds stops and shares our Mid-South celebration. Dive into this month’s pages, you will find some of the Mid-South’s brightest shining stars. While the riverfront is stoking the fires for barbecue, we highlight a barbecue haven, Arnold’s BarBQ; Reverend Ray sows a seed to help you get through a storm; we introduce you to a teen-age Mid-South entrepreneur duo – Angels and Tomboys; and, we honk our own horn touting Memphis-Made Jookin’.

As always, Kat is getting you ready for a special meal. This month, Kat takes you on a picnic with Hot Fried Chicken. I know you will enjoy each article as much as we did gathering them.

Toni Blount Harvey Editor-In-Chief

Next month is our Men’s Issue where we will highlight several of our Community’s men, their stories, passions and fun. Until next month . . . editor@thesouthernsoul.com

“All that I am, or hope to be, I owe to my angel mother.” . . . Abraham Lincoln

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Young Soul

An Eye on Mid-South Generation X TyRon Wells

by DOUGLASS HIGH YOUNG SOUL

T

photography by HERMAN WILLIAMS

This month, we were tasked with doing an article on a Mid-South Made person or product. After much consideration, we decided to feature a young man from our community who has demonstrated that we all can achieve our dreams, hopes and aspirations if we work hard. We present – TyRon Wells, owner of WellsConsulting Events and Designs.

Growing up in Montgomery Plaza, a South Memphis community, TyRon Wells gathered his love for art. The oldest of six children, reared by his loving mother and musician, Shirley Hill, he attended Kansas Elementary, now Florida-Kansas. Raised in a single parent home had its challenges, but TyRon forged ahead and kept his dream to become a designer. Even at the young age of fourteen, as he worked as a ticket holder at Libertyland Amusement Park, TyRon envisioned directing the events in the park. It is through this early experience that he first uncovered his love for people that would later shine even brighter in his career in décor. Joining the workforce at such an early age motivated TyRon to become successful and to never give up on his dreams and aspirations. Throughout his teenage and early adult life, Mr. Wells had difficulty identifying with his peers and experienced an identity crisis. During this time he was unsure of who he was, or what he wanted in life.

However, TyRon’s love and passion for the arts, music, and dance kept him afloat.

He remembers first hand falling in love with music; visiting Memphis churches with his mother as she played for various congregations. Their home church, Mount Vernon Westwood, is where he grew up singing in the youth choir. He currently attends Golden Gate Cathedral, where he is a member of the choir and is

We all can achieve our dreams, hopes and aspirations if we work hard

actively involved in the media ministry. TyRon’s favorite Memphis musicians cover a wide range and include musicians such as Larry Springfield, Will Graves, Wendy Moten, Olanda Draper and Billy Rivers. His fascination with Billy Rivers and the Angelic Voices of Faith stemmed from the release of the choir’s 1999 “Gotta Lift Southern Soul l May 2015

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Young Soul studios of ABC News 24. TyRon is currently featured on the news station’s Local Memphis Live segment with Lauren Raymer and Yvette Whiteside aired every other Thursday where you will find him offering decor tips.

He was recently accepted as a New Memphis Institute Fellow, which is a 12-month engagement that gives high potential, emerging leaders the tools, experiences and connections needed to become change agents, inclusive leaders and qualified city ambassadors in the city of Memphis.

TyRon currently works in the IT department for Shelby County Schools; is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., UT Martin and Strayer alum; and a graduate of East High School.

Him” album. In 2004, he reached out to the group to express his enthusiasm about their release and became the choir’s booking agent; which could be assumed the beginning of TyRon’s entertainment career.

In 2010, TyRon began his own company, WellsConsulting Events and Designs, after discovering his true passion was event planning and design. His company quickly grew after postings to social media sites and receiving inquiries from various people. Instantly, TyRon knew he made the right decision and began ‘working’ his dream. Inspired by world-class designer Preston Bailey, TyRon’s vision is to become the Mid-South’s foremost premier event and design specialist. Reflecting the personality of his clients in the decor of each event, TyRon captures the attitude and style the host desires.

His mission is to offer a specialized service that sets a high standard of design while giving back to his community.

Young Soul salutes Mid-South Made, TyRon Wells, a young, innovative man who is driven by his creative passion. We are proud to claim the talents of this young man, who is destined to provide our community with authentic event planning consultation. For a peek into TyRon’s expertise, tune in to ABC News 24 Local Memphis Live every other Thursday. §

Douglass High Young Soul Authors

Derrick Chalmers

Brittney Sermons

Since launching his company, TyRon has planned events for several faith-based, social and civic organizations in the MidSouth. In 2014, WellsConsulting decorated the 14 |

Southern Soul l May 2015

Jamie Culpepper

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Darrell T. Cobbins President & Founder

Shirley Cobbins Vice President External Relations

Universal Commercial Real Estate, LLC universalcommercial.com | 901.414.3315 16 |

Southern Soul l May 2015

Legal View

Justice Delayed Is Not Justice Denied!!!

T

Understand Your Rights!

by THE HONORABLE JUDGE CAROLYN WADE BLACKETT

Today, thousands of young African American men and women are under vigorous and fierce attack in their own country, states, cities, communities and especially their own neighborhoods from questionable and sometimes violent police confrontations.

Is the United States of America…the land of equality and freedom”?

How can a young African American man or woman strategically train, put on the American uniform, say goodbye to his family, get shipped to Iran or Afghanistan for a year’s tour of duty, fight with lethal weapons and voluntarily give up his or her life for the freedom of his country; when; ironically that very same person is not safe to walk down to the corner grocery store for an orange pop and a bag of Skittles or walk down the street from a computer store with his receipt in his pocket, or fears for his life at a regular traffic stop at night that may ultimately end in violence.

Why is it presumed that a “hoodie” means “thug in hiding;” “hands in pocket” means a “possible weapon waiting to be drawn;” “swagging pants” means “automatic disrespect for the law;” and/or “dangerous criminals on the prowl that need to be locked up immediately” [to protect our community]?? Even worse, gang colors, signs, or any other paraphernalia is usually an automatic warning to police that there may be a “shoot-out”, “drive-by” retaliation event and the safety of everyone is at risk if you are at a high school football game, a basketball game or a school dance or prom. Even a child is not protected in his or her bed at night from a stray bullet in a dispute between gangs in a neighborhood.

Surprisingly, many of these alleged “hard core” individuals come from middle-class homes, with working parents, attend charter, prep or private schools and attend church every Sunday.

So “what is the profile” of a young African-American man or woman who causes FEAR in the hearts of this community and causes police to sometimes over react. What can be done to stop this violence??

The question is often asked by everyone: WHAT RIGHTS, IF ANY, DO I HAVE, IF ANY… if I am approached by a policeman on the street, at school or even stopped for questioning as I drive home. Or, if I am driving, and I see blue lights; in my rear view mirror, should I stop immediately, immediately pull my license out of my pocket, hold up my hands, get out of the car or be still?? Should I ask to immediately call my parents, should I answer any questions asked by the police officers or should I ask for an attorney??

Again, what rights do I have in a society that seems to be determined and relentless on persecuting young African Americans out of FEAR according to a vast number of local and national politicians, ministers and community leaders.

What should I really think about Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown and Walter Scott? Will I be next? Could that have been me??

While there are no hard and fast rules that will work one hundred percent of the time, and guarantee of no arrest, and no violence, one must remember that each case must be judged on a case by case analysis by the police, the prosecutors, the attorneys and the judge. Every case has a different set of facts or alleged threats, a different cast of characters, and especially the timing of the emotionally or non-emotionally “charged” atmosphere of all the parties at the time of the potentially explosive event.

Here are several common sense and legal suggestions that will answer your questions about your rights and attempt to help you if you find yourself in one of these “unthinkable” and often potentially “tragic” situations. Remember, RESPECT should be on both sides especially police authority, but just in case it is not. First of all, DO NOT PANIC!!! DO NOT RUN!!! STAY CALM AND THINK REASONABLY!!!... If you find yourself in a situation with an armed police officer you MUST have RESPECT for the Criminal Justice System:

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Legal View RESPECT the police officers and be COMPLIANT with all their requests. “No sir”, “Yes sir” is required; not “Yea Bro, What’s up my…”. Keep your hands out at all times, stop walking, stop driving, hands on steering wheel, no talking, cursing or bad attitude. Only speak when officer speaks to you. DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING UNLESS YOU FULLY UNDERSTAND what you are signing.

EXPRESS your desire to call your parents immediately or if you have been taken down to the police station or put in police car, ask for an attorney for legal advice. YOU DO HAVE THAT RIGHT. Do not try to take telephone video or other recordings while in custody of police.

SHARE with friends or family members before riding or walking with them how you are prepared to behave if stopped, so they will not over-react and curse or get an outrageous attitude with police.

PLEASE OBEY THE LAW!!! No drugs, guns, weapons, jumping out of cars or attacking police officers.

EXPRESS your remorse if stopped for a traffic infraction such as broken headlight, no license, no registration or insurance, no seat belt, heavily tinted windows. If walking, always inform officer of what is in your pocket whether, a receipt, candy, soda pop, gun, knife, drugs or even a toy BB gun toy. Offer to take it out slowly or allow them to take it out before reaching in your pocket.

COMMON SENSE must be used. Answer all reasonable questions and do not panic. Turn loud rap music “off” in car, take headphones “off”, no cursing, NO ATTITUDE. Stop

immediately when you see flashing lights in rearview mirror if you are driving. Try to find well lit areas to stop as soon as possible. Do not speed off!!!

TELL police politely your side of the story. No screaming, no jumping out of car, no acting as if you are going to use a weapon and absolutely no running. Running is automatic reason to shoot!!!

Stay in car unless you are asked to get out of car by police.

You may be extremely upset by some of the above suggestions and may feel that you have NO RIGHTS!!! YOU MAY FEEL THAT YOUR LIFE DOES NOT MATTER!!! However, WHEN IT IS YOUR LIFE, and someone else’s word against yours, a bullet in your chest or your brain shot all over the street, speaks volumes for the other side because you are no longer able to tell your side of the story.

RESPECT because you want the opportunity to tell your side in a “court of law.” You want the opportunity to assert your rights in court. The Criminal Justice System is here to work for you, but it is most important that you do what you have to do to “GET YOUR CASE” to the Criminal Justice System “ALIVE AND WELL” to tell your story to the prosecutors, defense attorneys and the judge.

Historically, and to my knowledge as a Senior Criminal Court Judge with over twenty (20) years on the Criminal Court bench, a trial has never been conducted, nor any dead witnesses called to the jury stand to testify; nor a unanimous jury verdict reached at the morgue. Remember, a senseless shooting, an unreasonable and reckless tragic death, a mourning family, neighborhood and community of a loved one, Is “JUSTICE DENIED”!!! §

JUDGE CAROLYN WADE BLACKETT Senior Judge Criminal Court, Division IV Shelby County, Memphis, Tennessee A Graduate of Immaculate Conception High School in Memphis, Judge Carolyn Wade Blackett earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Brown University and a Doctor of Jurisprudence Degree from St. Louis University School of Law. Judge Blackett’s legal career began at the SevenUp Company as a law clerk in the Corporate Division during her second and third years of law school. Upon graduation and following relocation to Memphis, Blackett served as counsel with the National Labor Relations Board followed by twelve years at Federal Express where she was promoted to Senior Attorney in the Corporate and Commercial Transactions Division, and later as Southern Regional Manager of Government and Legislative Affairs.

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Southern Soul l May 2015

In 1992, Judge Blackett entered private practice with Waring Cox Law Firm and in September, 1994, she was appointed Judge of Division IV of the Shelby County Criminal Court by the Governor of Tennessee. She was the first female Criminal Court Judge in Shelby County and the First African American female Criminal Court State Judge in the State of Tennessee.

Judge Blackett has been and continues to be active in numerous professional organizations and community activities. As an avid advocate for young people, Judge Blackett has served on the Board of Trustees for Lausanne Collegiate School; the Board of Make-A-Wish Foundation; Porter-Leath Foster Grandparent Program; and, the Domestic Violence Counsel. She has served with the Neighborhood Watch, Inc.; Crime-Stoppers; Harbor House; the Exchange Club Child Abuse Center; Boys and Girls Club of Memphis; and, the Memphis/ Shelby Crime Commission.

Judge Blackett is a single mother with two children, Philip 29 and Aarica 27.

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BETA Presents 1st Annual Business Economic Trade Association Lecture Series

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June 25, 2015

Join in Transforming Our Communities – Economically & Educationally Strong Lecture Series is designed to educate, inspire and empower present/future generations, entrepreneurs and small business focusing on developing and fostering economically strong communities.

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President of LeMoyne-Owen College

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May 2015 info, contact Donald Grayer, DGrayer@aol.com or 901.674.6221 ToSouthern RegisterSoul or forladditional

Fitness

Surviving Allergies, Colds and the Flu - Naturally

I

Alternative Medicine with Natural Treatments

by LATINA EPPS THOMAS

I went outside recently to get something out of my car, and was shocked to see that my previously clean, shiny, black car was now dirty, matted and dusty yellow! It hit me, it's ALLERGY SEASON! If you have been alive and functioning for the past few weeks, I’m sure you’ve noticed the hazy film of yellow, covering everything outside! Nothing is safe! In fact, if you stay outside for any length of time, you too will be covered by a thin yellow blanket of pollen! You carry it with you everywhere you go!

Allergy season has hit us and boy is it putting up a colossal fight! I think I must get a type of seasonal amnesia every year because I swear each year, that it is “the worst it’s ever been”! Mother Nature has left her calling card, pollen, to “Welcome us into Spring!” So much for my clean, shiny black car!

Allergies are often associated with weak adrenal, immune, and digestive systems. If you’re anything like me, you may suffer from allergy symptoms each time the season changes.

Each season seems to provide special type of discomfort for me. But, the fantastic news I want to share with you this month is that it is possible to win the war against allergies, naturally. There are natural remedies to relieve the symptoms of allergies as well as colds and flu.

I am a firm believer in seeking a Naturopathic remedy before seeking Allopathic Medicine. In recent years, there is a growing acceptance of the benefits of mind-body therapies and natural remedies. A Naturopathic remedy is a form of alternative medicine employing a wide array of “natural” treatments, including homeopathy, herbalism, acupuncture, diet and lifestyle counseling. Allopathic medicine is defined as the system of medical practice which treats disease by the use of remedies which produce effects different from those produced by the disease under treatment. Medical Doctors practice allopathic medicine.

Natural remedies can be used to nourish, support and improve a weak adrenal, immune, and digestive systems and to alleviate allergy symptoms. For seasonal allergies, beginning natural remedies 1–2 months before the season starts can help reduce the severity of symptoms.

Good health can help ease or even eradicate some allergy symptoms, and good health starts with good nutrition.

Proponents of natural remedies suggest that those sensitive to airborne allergens may also be sensitive to certain foods.

Identifying and removing those foods from the diet can greatly improve health and reduce allergy symptoms. This can be achieved with an "elimination and challenge diet."

By removing foods from your diet and adding them slowly back in (one at a time), you will be able to determine which food sensitivities you may have and thereby eliminate them from your diet.

A good method to reduce allergy symptoms is maintaining a moderately low-fat, high-complex-carbohydrate diet and drinking at least 1/2 of your body weight in ounces of water daily (e.g., a 150 lb person would drink 75 oz. of water or more). Also, try including the following foods into your diet: Dark green, leafy vegetables; Deep yellow and orange vegetables; Nettles, bamboo shoots, cabbage, beet tops, beets, carrots, yams Onions, garlic, ginger, cayenne, and horseradish The number one food category to eliminate while suffering from allergies, colds or the flu is Dairy! Dairy products produce excess mucus in your body and exacerbate your issues.

Here are a few Supplements, Vitamins, Minerals, & Herbs to Consider: Nettle Leaf: A natural antihistamine that can be very Southern Soul l May 2015

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Fitness

effective as it is known to naturally block the body’s ability to produce histamine. It grows in many places and can be made into a tincture or tea, but for allergy relief, capsules made from dried nettle leaves are the easiest and most effective option.

Nettle leaf can also be used in combination with other herbs to make a soothing herbal tea for allergy relief. It is often mixed with peppermint leaf and sometimes red raspberry leaf to make a refreshing allergy relief tea.

Vitamin C: Start by purchasing a good quality food-based Vitamin C. Take daily as a preventative or as directed.

When experiencing allergy symptoms, it is suggested to take 1-3 grams 2 to 3 times daily or to bowel tolerance. (Bowel tolerance is the amount of Vitamin C one can take without causing diarrhea. This amount is different for each person and can change if the body is stressed, injured, or ill).

Garlic: Garlic is a potent antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal agent. Fresh, raw garlic is best however, not all people can eat fresh raw garlic. For those individuals, purchasing garlic in tincture form or capsules is best.

White Willow Bark: The bark of white willow contains Salicin, which is a chemical similar to aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid). In combination with the herb's powerful antiinflammatory plant compounds (called flavonoids), Salicin is thought to be responsible for its pain-relieving and antiinflammatory effects.

Raw, Organic, Apple Cider Vinegar with the Mother: This solution has been said to reduce mucous production and cleanse the lymphatic system. Thus, it has a perfect use for allergies, colds and the flu. I personally take 1 tablespoon, 2-3 times a day, every day. For further information about “the Mother,” look for the Detox Tea Recipe in my Southern Soul February issue column or online at www. thesouthernsoul.com.

Another natural remedy for allergy relief is Hydrotherapy.

Here are a few suggested methods.

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Ice packs: Behind the head, on the eyes or on the forehead are marvelous when experiencing a sinus headache or pressure. It reduces inflammation thereby relieving pain.

Neti-Pot: The basic theory behind the use of a Neti-Pot (filled with a sterile saline solution) is that it flushes out allergens, irritants, and excess mucus in the sinuses. Either use a pre-made saline rinse or make your own by dissolving 1 teaspoon of Himalayan or sea salt in a quart of boiled distilled water. Allow to cool until room temperature and fill the Neti-Pot. Pour through one nostril and let it drain out the other.

Hot Baths: Baths with Epsom Salt and essential oils such as lavender, peppermint, and or eucalyptus help relieve sore muscles and are great for clearing sinus passages.

Humidifier: Keeping humidity in your room makes it easier to breath. Try adding eucalyptus oil to the humidifier to help open the sinus passages.

I was an allergy sufferer too! I was allergic to nature! I couldn't be outside for more than a few minutes before my eyes started itching, my throat would get scratchy, my nose would start running, I would start sneezing and eventually would have to use my inhaler! For me, taking preventative measures, building my immune system and staying hydrated healed me and remedied my allergy issues.

Today, some feel we have become a society of pills poppers, looking for a quick fix to relieve a problem. We now have super bugs (bacteria) that don't respond to the pills. Natural remedies have helped millions of people for thousands of years. Perhaps, it's time to try something new and enjoy the Spring!

Keep in mind these are just suggestions and are not meant to diagnose or treat anyone. If you have questions or would like to know more about where you can get the products listed, contact me at www.facebook.com/justbeyoga or justbeyoga@outlook.com. §

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Join our

Women On The Move Thursday May 21 11:30am to 1pm as we host A Conversation With

Dr. Shirley Raines

$20 per person, includes lunch Reserve your place at the table by calling The Crescent Club at

901-684-1010

6075 Poplar Avenue | 9thFloor | Memphis, TN 38119 Southern Soul l May 2015

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Increasing its community engagement, The Crescent Club, a 26 year old diverse business and social club located in East Memphis, is offering numerous programs and events to engage and inform members and non-members alike. "Membership has always included people who are central to the business and arts communities.

The pool of talent among our membership is remarkable. That, to me, just makes us an obvious place to host community events," said Corrin Green, Crescent Club's interim General Manager.

Among the programming is The Crescent Club’s Women On The Move monthly lunchtime speaker series where speakers are invited to address issues of special relevance to women. May's speaker is Dr. Shirley Raines, President Emeritus of the University of Memphis, and that institution's first female leader. Green explains simply, "for the price of lunch, members and guests get front and center with the best and brightest."

A monthly financial forum, moderated by club members will soon be added to the club’s programming."We have many financial executives among our members... also prominent players in the banking and real estate communities. They know the questions that need to be answered in order for Memphis to move forward and prosper. I want to hear some of the answers, publicly stated at our club," says Green.

In June, quarterly programming dealing with veterans’ issues will begin along with events surrounding the history of Memphis, and the history of Southern traditions.

Beginning in October, the Crescent Club will host a monthly masters series featuring musicians from the Memphis Symphony Orchestra, who will preview works from the upcoming Symphony season.

While Crescent Club members will enjoy the full benefit of these programs, Green says he intends to make as much as possible available to non-members as well. "Our lifeblood is our membership, but we've always been about diversity and inclusion.

A lot of the new programming is about exchanging ideas, and the more diversity we can bring to those exchanges the better."

For further information, contact Corrin Green at 901.684.1106.

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Southern Soul l May 2015

retroSOUL Park (overlooking the mighty Mississippi River) swells to the point it could actually qualify itself as the sixth largest city in the state of Tennessee!

The festival itself has a great history… but we’ll save that for a later issue. Meanwhile, the history of the Beale Street Music Festival, while celebrated today in Tom Lee Park, originated, of course (like so many musical careers) on Beale Street. The first Beale Street Music Festival was held in 1977 at the corner of Beale and Third, the same year that Congress officially declared Beale as the “Home of the Blues.” That first year, the festival’s musical lineup included Furry Lewis, Mose Vinson, Rufus Thomas, Carla Thomas, Mud Boy and the Neutrons, the Reverend Al Green and the great B.B. King, to name a few. And while that’s a storied past, the history of Beale Street herself goes back decades further!

Lady Soul

O

Beale Street

by JOHN DOYLE

Over the past several months, we have celebrated many of Memphis’ musical greats, all of whom have received national and international acclaim. They’ve included Willie Mitchell, Ann Peebles, Isaac Hayes, Lucie Campbell, Professor W.T. McDaniel and others. Of course, there are so many more to come… Rufus and Carla Thomas, W.C. Handy, Otis Redding, Al Green, the Memphis Horns… there are literally hundreds. This month, perhaps especially because it is May, I wanted to showcase a Memphis musical great also responsible for entertaining millions and receiving international acclaim… and one which threads most of these others together. Her name is Beale Street.

Every year in Memphis we blast into the month of May with the Beale Street Music Festival, and thousands of music lovers pour into town. It has been said that, given all the events of Memphis in May, the population of Tom Lee

She actually never planned on becoming a musician. She started as a commercial street enjoyed by many of Memphis’ AfricanAmerican citizens who came to Beale for stores, dentists, beauty parlors, groceries, insurance and more. First developed in the 1840s by developer Robertson Topp, the western end primarily housed retail, while the eastern part was developed as an affluent suburb. Actually, at that time, it was part of South Memphis, with Union Avenue serving as the dividing line between the two towns of Memphis and South Memphis. The two were consolidated in January 1850.

Beale Street was originally called Beale Avenue. You’ve probably noticed that, in most of Memphis, Tennessee, thoroughfares running north to south are streets or roads, like Third Street, while most running east and west, like Beale, are avenues. Some years later, in 1916, the “Father of the Blues,” W.C. Handy wrote Beale Street Blues, a tune which not only helped to make the street famous, but through a campaign led by actor and musician Danny Thomas (yes, the St. Jude Hospital Danny Thomas), led to Beale being officially changed from avenue to street (despite running in the wrong direction!). Let’s return, however, to the 1800s.

Not only was she a commercial street (we’ll explore that in a moment), she was also a divided street! That’s right, Beale Avenue (as it was known at the time) was divided by the Gayoso Bayou. That’s right, children. Don’t peek under your beds because that notorious, mythological beast is real! From the time Memphis was founded in 1819, the Gayoso Bayou was an open, 5-mile, natural drainage Southern Soul l May 2015

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retroSOUL

canal. It became a bit of a sewage canal and throughout the 1800s, may have attributed to many of the city’s six different yellow plague epidemics, which decimated the city’s population. In the latter part of the 1800s, bridges were built across the canal to allow for buggies and wagons and to expand the city’s boundaries. Developers began covering portions of it and building on top of it.

Around 1914, the last open portion of the Gayoso Bayou, which crossed Beale, was covered by a building now located next to Silky O’Sullivans. Surprisingly, though, the Gayoso Bayou still exists, and is “flipped” over almost daily by the world famous Beale Street Flippers as it continues to flow right under Beale Street.

hotel (each room with its own fireplace) were all a part of The Gallina. It’s most recognized today by the huge metal girders which support its regal façade, the only remaining remnants of The Gallina. Lady Beale was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1966 and that designation dictates that, while new construction can be built behind, all facades must be preserved.

Now, I could go building by building and tell you a bit about what business was there and which years; but, there are other, better, sources for that. The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum actually offers an audio-guided “Walking Tour of Beale Street” which tells you about this great lady’s buildings and history. Even better, within the museum’s gift shop (and other places around town, and on Amazon, as it sounds as if I am selfishly plugging the museum’s gift shop!) you can find the book “Beale Street Talks,” by Dr. Richard Raichelson, which I consider to be the most thorough historical look at Beale. However, it would be cool to hit a couple of high points.

A few more cool notes (other than those brass notes along the sidewalk)… A. Schwab Dry Goods Store at 163 Beale Street is the only remaining original business on the street, and it looks like it, as walking through its doors immediately take you back to the early 1900s.

Across Beale from Schwab is a musical courtyard on which originally stood a medical office occupied by the four Martin brother doctors (two doctors, a dentist and a pharmacist). The four doctors gained control of the Memphis Red Sox, a black professional baseball team founded in 1919. Eventually, Dr. John Martin graduated to the presidency of the Negro American League. A skip further west on Beale, where the MLG&W office (and an Elvis statue) stands, you would have found the brick, seven-story Randolph Office Building which encompassed the entire block and boasted its very own water supply which tapped Memphis’ artesian well. In the 1890s, it was the largest office building in Memphis.

The Silky O’Sullivan patio and goat farm was originally the Gallina Building, known as “The Pride of Beale Street (yes, it’s lost a bit of pride since slipping from luxury to goat farm… but only on Beale Street!). Exquisite brickwork, skylights, a saloon, restaurant and 20-room

Blues City Café at Second and Beale, known for selling great ribs, once sold ribs as a very early Piggly Wiggly supermarket. And don’t forget that Beale ran further east past Fourth. On that next block stands the historic First Baptist Beale Street Church. In that building one

She started as a commercial street enjoyed by many of Memphis’ African-American citizens

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retroSOUL of the earliest AfricanAmerican newspapers was published, coowned and edited by Ida B. Wells. On that same block was Church Park and auditorium, built by Robert R. Church in 1899.

Church, some say, was the very first AfricanAmerican millionaire in the South, and also the first, in 1881, to purchase a city issued municipal bond to help Memphis regain its city charter following the populationdecimating Yellow Plague.

Now, back to the music. Beale Street is known for music, making her the most famous musical street in the world.

Elvis Presley learned the blues from blues legends along the curbs of Beale Street, while musicians like W.C. Handy and Jimmie Lunceford and their orchestras delivered smooth jazz within Beale’s elegant clubs. But then there’s The Palace.

The Palace Theater, built in 1919 became the preeminent entertainment showcase for blacks in the Mid-South. Along with vaudeville skits, these shows featured blues singers, dancers, acrobats, jugglers, comics, even opera singers. The cream of black entertainment played the Palace, including Ethel Waters, the Mills Brothers, Bessie Smith and Ma Rainey. Beginning in the 20s and well into the 50s, the Palace hosted its famous weeknight Amateur Night, which may have looked similar to Harlem's Showtime at the Apollo. Amateur Night was, at two separate times, hosted by two legendary WDIA radio deejays: Nat D. Williams, the very first black radio announcer in Memphis, as well as Rufus Thomas who, aside from being a WDIA deejay until his death in 2001, is also known for recording the very first hit record for Sun Records, as well as the first hit record for STAX Records.

Winners of The Palace Theater’s Amateur Night were selected by audience applause, and either received cash or groceries.

Bad performances were suffocated by an outpouring of audience boos and catcalls, before being drug off stage by a hook or ceremonially "shot" by a gun loaded with blanks. Some winners became major stars, including B.B. King, Bobby "Blue" Bland, Johnny Ace, Roscoe Gordon and Isaac Hayes.

On Thursday nights, the Palace hosted the popular Midnight Ramble, held for white audiences only. Performances sometimes included jazz orchestras like Duke Ellington

or Count Basie. At other times, touring road shows like the "Brown Skin Models" offered entertainment strictly for adults, featuring offcolor jokes and scantilyclad chorus girls.

This street is truly one of Memphis’ musical greats. There is so much more to know about her! Aside from the recent musical acclaim of the Beale Street Music Festival and today’s great music which emanates from so many great clubs along the street, entertaining literally millions of tourists and Memphians annually (noted as the most visited tourist attraction in Tennessee), she has a world-changing musical past. In fact, had there been no Beale Street, the blues might not have found their home in Memphis; had the blues not found Beale Street, Elvis wouldn’t have found the blues; had Elvis not found the blues, rock ‘n’ roll might have never been born; had that not happened, the world would have never been rocked on its axes… and, instead of Lenny Kravitz, Pat Boone might be crooning the Beale Street Music Festival.

Your retroSOUL music assignment (you know, I assign one every month). I could ask you to head to Beale, choose one of the musical legends represented on the many brass noted embedded along that great street, then do a little research or sample their hits. However, right now, fortunately, there are a million little tourist feet marching across those brass notes! So let’s, well, go “retro.” Since the city has recently been rocked by the recording of Bruno Mars’ “Uptown Funk” at Memphis’ Royal Studio, let’s go a little “Swingin’ Uptown” with the Jimmie Lunceford orchestra. Listen to it on iTunes, or simply click to the Memphis Music Hall of Fame website to listen to Lunceford, Handy, Rufus, Carla, each made famous by Lady Beale Street, or any of our city’s many other Hall of Fame inductees. §

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FREE Workshops College Resource Center Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

April 29 May 6 May 13 May 20

May 27 June 3 June 10 June 15

@graduatememphis (901) 415 - 2774

Beat

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Cl M imb ou in nt g ai ns

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In partnership with TNReconnect, we invite adult learners to sign up for Graduate Memphis in order to learn about the TNReconnect grant that will send adult students to college for free. Visit our workshops to learn more!

Su

Memphis “Beat the Odds� Award PRESENTS

Thursday, May 21, 2015 7:00 pm | 6:00 pm Reception

Lindenwood Christian Church | 2400 Union Avenue Ticket: $30 For more information visit memphisbeattheodds.org.

Celebrating the Positive Potential of Youth 28 |

Southern Soul l May 2015

Latin Soul

Latin Made in the Mid-South

I

by ALEXANDRA MATLOCK

It is exciting to see the significant growth of Latinos in the Mid-South.

According to the Pew Research Center, the Latino population in Alabama grew a whopping 158 percent, to 186,209, though Latinos made up just 4 percent of the state's population. South Carolina and Tennessee, both with larger Hispanic populations than Alabama, trailed just behind with increases in Latino population of 154 percent each.

Over the past decade, the Latino population has at least doubled in the Southern states of Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Due to the rapid growth, new needs for the community arise, opening opportunities to fulfill those needs by entrepreneurs with the desire to be prosperous and productive. When you read reports about immigrant owned businesses, you can find that Latinos are in the top of the ladder.

Latinos are fast becoming some of the most influential business owners in the US. They are opening businesses at twice the national rate. Good examples are all the Latino owned businesses in West Tennessee and Northern Mississippi. When I arrived in Memphis ten years ago, most Latino owned businesses were mainly restaurants. But today, we have a large list of various types of Latino

owned businesses. The categories include medical clinics, dental clinics, law firms, lawn care services, construction companies, bakeries, printing services, marketing services, media, daycares, food markets,

TODAY, WE HAVE A LARGE LIST OF VARIOUS TYPES OF LATINO OWNED BUSINESSES restaurants, night clubs, transportation services, cleaning companies, contractors, retailers, clothing stores, tax and accounting firms, dealerships, beauty salons, tortilla factories, translation services, real

Southern Soul l May 2015

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Latin Soul

estate agencies ‌ And the list continues to grow.

All this growth translates into positive economic impact for all the counties in Tennessee and Mississippi. Industry experts predict this trend will continue over the next decade. Latino owned businesses were expected to increase their total revenue contribution to the economy by 8% annually over the ten year span from 2005 to 2015. It means that Latinos will continue to gain more economic influence, employ a greater proportion of the population and purchase substantially more in goods and services than they do today.

Today, Latino immigrants are younger, more skilled, and more highly educated than those who arrived in previous decades. To the surprise of some, many of these immigrants are not just arriving from neighboring Central American countries like Mexico, but also from places like Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, Brazil and other South American countries.

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Southern Soul l May 2015

Also, more women and children have joined the immigration flow each year, suggesting that new Latino families might become permanent settlers.

I suppose we can expect to see future generations reading about our economic impact in the history books of tomorrow. §

Join us for

Brown Butterflies INAUGURAL LAPS FOR LUPUS May 24, 2015 | Tiger Lane | Noon to 5 p.m.

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Southern Soul l May 2015

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ad

Hey Myron!

The Break Up? Not So Hard To Do!

I ’M LEAVING

by MYRON MAYS photography by DARIUS B WILLIAMS

T

Ten Do's and Dont's of Breaking Up

No one likes break ups. They can be painful and sometimes complicated. Often times it leaves many of us bitter, heartbroken and scarred. For some, it’s fairly easy to bounce back. For others, it takes a lifetime to get your life back on track. There are a million songs that will tell you that breaking up is so hard to do. However, we tend to make it more complicated than it has to be.

few ways you can survive and walk away with your selfrespect and dignity.

Rule 2: If You Left It, Leave It.

If you didn’t get all your stuff, leave it behind. This gives your ex the advantage. Not only do they still have something that belongs to you. They still have something you want. Now, all they have to do is sit back and wait for you to return to get it. If they want you back, they will even go so far as to call you to remind Rule 1: Not Ready? Don’t.

If you’re really not ready to break up, then simply don’t you that you left something. They will even make it convenient for you to come and pick it up. If you’re not do it. It will only confuse you. But for those who feel careful, there is a good chance you’ll fall for this trick. If that the time is right and you’re ready to break free you still have items at their house, then leave it behind. and fly away, here are my common sense rules for a “breaking up” process and moving on. No matter which That way, it’s one less reason to communicate. Besides, do you really wanna use that toothbrush you left? side of the break-up you may find yourself on, here’s a Southern Soul l May 2015

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Hey Myron! could have spent it doing something else.

But the real news is… you’re never gonna get that time back -- so stop whining about it and start where you are.

Rule 3: Delete Them From Your Friends List.

Don’t hesitate to delete them from your social media.

Quit trying to indirectly keep tabs on them. They’re actually expecting you to do this. As a matter of fact, take a break from social media, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Google+ any other social media service that has a newsfeed. That way, when you’re really feeling down and lonely, you won’t feel compelled to make a Facebook posting that makes people think you’re down and lonely. You don’t want to be tempted to send them an inbox or instant message or post anything that would allow them to know what you’re up to. They will never play fair. The last thing you need is to log on to your social media account and discover that your ex is, ironically, having a great day every time you’re having a bad one.

Rule 4: Find Something to Do… Now.

Here’s some good news. When you break up with someone, you’ll find yourself with loads of free time.

Now, this can be kind of tricky because you’ll want to do so many things but you probably won’t know where to start because you’ll feel like so much of the world has passed you by while you were with your ex. But, at some point, you’re gonna calculate all the time you wasted with that person realizing that you 34 |

Southern Soul l May 2015

Get back to living! Find some new hobbies.

Find some new habits. Get your blood pressure checked. If it’s lower, you know why.

Whatever you do, you must find something to do to occupy your free time. Otherwise you’ll find yourself reminiscing on times past. And this can lead to such things as accidentally calling your ex’s phone number and mysteriously finding yourself waking up at their house the next morning. The only thing this will accomplish is a shameful look at yourself in the mirror. Again, find something to do. Boredom leads to stupid actions.

Rule 5: Treat Yourself to Some New friends.

When you break up with someone, it’s quite common to divide property and no one ever really gives thought as to who gets to keep the mutual friends. Let me help you with that…Get New Ones! Think about it…if they’re still friends with you and your ex, chances are you’ll get an unsolicited update on their life every now and then. And it’ll probably come at a time where they are doing much better than you are. You’re probably gonna hate your friend for that. So why not save yourself the kick in the gut and replace them now? That way you’re not forcing them to choose between you and your ex. And consider this, none of those friends ever warned you about the situation you were getting yourself into in the first place. So just maybe it was time for a change. Here’s some refreshing news. As of 2013, there were 7.125 billion people on Earth. Which means that as of 2015 there are at least 7.125 Billion prospects for new friends. You got all this free time on hand, so make good use of it.

Hey Myron!

Rule 6: Find a Voice of Reason.

Find a person who will serve as your voice of reason.

This person should be someone who really didn’t care for your ex from the beginning. As a matter of fact, they often wondered why you wasted your time with him/ her anyway. They were even a better friend than the ones you shared with your ex because they probably tried to keep you from running into that hornets’ nest in the first place. Be prepared, however, they’re not gonna have much patience with you because you didn’t listen the last time. You’re not gonna like what they say. Don’t worry.

You’re not supposed to like it. You’re only supposed to heed what they say. The object of this person is to help prevent you from doing anything stupid by any means necessary.

Rule 7: Don’t Seek Revenge.

Refrain from seeking revenge. It only shows them that they are still in your system. They’re not supposed to know this. Never give them the benefit. The only impression they are supposed to have is that you have moved on.

Rule 8: Don’t Badmouth Them in Public.

Don’t say anything bad about them publicly. It only shows them that they’re still in your system. Again, they’re not supposed to know this. And in this case, it’s

shows others that they are still in your system too. And they will probably make jokes about you when you’re not around. The only impression the entire public is to have is that you have moved on.

Rule 9: Don’t Give Your Break Up a Song.

Never attach a song to your situation. Music is forever.

If you must have a song that you consider your break up song, choose one you don’t like. That way, it’ll be easier to change the station when it comes on. BreakUps aren’t supposed to have a soundtrack anyway. That makes no sense.

Rule 10: Do Something Different Next Time.

For example, if you met your last few mates at a club and all those relationships ended the same way, then maybe the club isn’t the garden you should be picking your flowers from. Ever heard the saying - doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results is considered insanity. The next person you find should be totally different than the last person you were with.

But if you’re not creative and at least careful, chances are you’ll end up with a different version of the last person you were with…and thus the cycle continues.

Follow these ten rules . . . Get Moving . . . On to Happiness! § Southern Soul l May 2015

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Southern Soul l May 2015

Annual Tribute Luncheon and Symposiu Community

Honoring the Past.

Envisioning the Future LEGENDS AWARD RECEPTION Women’s Foundation Celebrates 20 Years of Service

Thursday, April 23, 2015

M

by TARRIN MCGHEE Photograph Courtesy of BOARD MEMBER AS PUBLISHED IN THE FIRST PURSE POWER PROGRAM, 1998.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE Marking its 20th anniversary this year, the Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis (WFGM) reached a significant milestone fortifying its mission to encourage philanthropy and foster leadership among women via programs that enable women and children to reach their full potential while gaining economic stability.

Hosting its Annual Tribute Luncheon, WFGM honored and celebrated the founding matriarch of the Women’s Foundation, the late Mertie Willigar Buckman, and the WFGM founding board of directors, which includes Rosie Bingham; Dr. Barbara Duncan-Cody; Yvonne Fournier, Edith Kelly Green; Fredricka Hodges; Frances Dancy Hooks; Barbara R. Hyde, Osceola McCarty; Gayle S. Rose; and Cassandra H. Webster; among others.

WFGM presented its founding visionaries with the 2015 Legends Awards – an honor bestowed to women who have made significant contributions to advance

tributeluncheon@wfgm.org | www.wfgm.org Facebook: Women’s Foundation | Twitter: WFGM_ORG In 1995, a dynamic group of committed women leaders got together and planted a seed to build a community of Instagram: well-being and prosperity. Over the past two decades, theWFGM_ORG seed has flourished and continues to grow. office: 901.578.9346 | fax: 901.578.9446 Southern Soul l May 2015

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Community Continuing their core grant-making efforts, WFGM unveiled its Vision 2020 Plan at the Annual Tribute Luncheon. The goal of Vision 2020 is to reduce poverty in Shelby County’s poorest zip code (“38126”) by one percent per year over the next five years. Essential components of Vision 2020 include ensuring that: families secure resources to meet their basic needs; residents gain marketable job skills and living wage employment; children are prepared from birth to enter and learn in kindergarten; youth develop competence, confidence, connection, and character; and, that families gain the financial education skills that help them reduce poverty.

To enhance its reach and impact on women and families, this year, WFGM will issue its supporters a $2 for $1 match grant challenge (offered by the Hyde Family Foundations) for new funds raised in 2015.

Women's Foundation Founding Board of Directors - Photo Courtesy of Founding Board Member: First Published in the 1997 Purse Power.

the Greater Memphis community, and whose work embodies the WFGM’s mission. Saluting its history, WFGM also paid tribute to the 1997 Mertie Buckman Mentor Award recipient and Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women.

Annually, WFGM’s Annual Tribute Luncheon hosts more than 1,600 guests. This year’s Keynote Speaker was Debbie Allen - an awardwinning director, choreographer, educator, and philanthropist whose career accolades include three Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, five NAACP Image Awards, a Drama Desk, an Astaire Award, and the Olivier Award. "I am very happy and humbled to be a part of the celebration for the Women's Foundation for a Greater Memphis, and to join their extraordinary mission to expand the possibilities for success and a better quality of life for women," said Allen.

WFGM’s mission is supported by numerous partnerships with community stakeholders; bolstered by strategic local and regional collaborations; and, touted by nationwide acclaim. Today, WFGM is recognized as one of the fastest growing women’s foundations in the country, reaching 17,000 women and children each year through its philanthropic efforts and stellar programs. Since 1996, WFGM has awarded $7.2 million to 420 programs supporting more than 30 local non-profits with grant awards totaling more than $600,000 annually.

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Recognizing the profound impact of WFGM’s twenty years, Ruby Bright, Executive Director of the Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis shared, “In 1995, our founders recognized

WFGM is recognized as one of the fastest growing women’s foundations in the country, reaching 17,000 women and children each year that by pooling resources, women could accomplish more in their community than each could individually. We will move that sentiment and spirit of collaboration forward over the next 20 years as we continue to work to make our vision of a community where women live in sufficiency, strength, and safety, sharing their leadership and empowering their children a true reality.” §

Community

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Telisa Franklin, Executive Producer | www.MemphisJuneteenth.com | 901-281-6337

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Mid-South Made

Pre-Teen Sibling Entrepreneurs Take Control Of Their Future One Angel And Tomboy At A Time

by ERICA HORTON photography by CREATIVE SOUL PHOTOGRAPHY

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The sting of adult perfume assaulted the young noses of Madison Star, 11, and Mallory Iyanla, 9, for the last time. Whether in their mom's closet or on the glass out-of-reach shelves of department stores (clearly not meant for children), it was no secret that something needed to change.

With the help of their mom, in the spring of 2014, the Memphis-based entrepreneur siblings launched Angels and Tomboys, a vegan-friendly, paraben free and nutrient loaded skincare line for tweens.

Mallory Iyanla & Madison Star

"Madison is more the angel and I'm more like the tomboy because I like to dance, sing and play basketball. But, I like some of her stuff too and that's okay."

You can be a girly girl

"All girls are created equally different. That's what we say and think about when we make our lotions and body sprays," Madison said. "I'm more of a girly girl and Mallory is more of a tomboy."

"You can be a girly girl but still like skateboarding, dancing and purses, like my sister," Mallory said.

Madison said she loves to read books, bake, dance and text her friends on the phone in her free time. She collects purses, stickers and bottle caps, loves to wear skirts, ballerina flats and anything that sparkles.

Mallory likes to collect hot wheels.

Her favorite book is the “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” series by Jeff Kinney. When she’s not dancing, acting or rapping, Mallory plays basketball and video games.

Rarely seen in dresses and skirts, she loves patterned skinny jeans and Converses.

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It smells so good that I want to eat it.

The sisters use all their interests and hobbies to channel energy into thinking up scents for Angels and Tomboys. Their mom, Viara Boyd, helps with logistics like ordering products and finding chemists to make sure the product stays safe for young skin.

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They have created ten scents including three signature scents, Deep Fried Ice Cream, Cotton Candied Apples, Rockin Blueberry, Happy Birthday Strawberry Cupcake, Adventures with Angels and Tomboys, Lemonade Donuts and Watermelon Funk. The three signature scents –Frozen Hot Chocolate, Candy Star Glam and Peanut Butter Jelly Time— feature glitter and shimmer.

“I came up with Frozen Hot Chocolate because I like chocolate ice cream and I like hot chocolate and so, Frozen Hot Chocolate,” Mallory said. “It smells so

Lifestyles

good that I want to eat it. It’s my signature scent.”

Candy Star Glam is Madison’s signature scent. “It reminds me of Hollywood and Broadway and that’s my dream. I want to be a star,” Madison said.

The product comes in different color bottles and labels that feature cartoon characters dreamed up by the pair, who emphasizes the importance of girls embracing their differences. The shea butter and aloe vera infused product features uniquely fragranced body sprays and lotions specifically created for young skin.

Angels and Tomboy’s lotions and body sprays premiered in May 2014 during the monthly Art Trolley Tour at Art Village Gallery in Memphis, Tenn.

Madison and Mallory exhibited their dance proficiency performing at their launch while invited guests enjoyed a candy buffet and sampled and purchased their lotions and sprays.

Madison and Mallory's forward thinking and innovative ideas comes on the brink of a new feminist

movement that allows girls and women of all ages to think differently about their bodies and the world around them. Madison and Mallory are contributing their voices to this world-wide movement by being young entrepreneurs and philanthropists--the girls frequently volunteer and donate to shelters for women and children--all while maintaining honor roll and principal's list in school.

One of their favorite places to donate coats and shoes to is the Memphis Family Shelter and Help Us Save Her, Inc. (H.U.S.H.) a girl’s empowerment group that Southern Soul l May 2015

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d e t a e r c e r a All girls . t n e r e f f i d y equall

exposes young ladies to the community around them through mentorships.

Madison and Mallory said they love doing business and helping people. They plan to do a back to school drive in 2016 where they will donate Angels and Tomboys to the girls in the shelters where they volunteer along with school supplies. “It’s fun,” Madison said. “When you smell good, you feel good and I want the girls in the shelter to feel better.”

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Their mother, Viara, said she couldn't be more proud.

"My girls are using their unique personalities to meet a need," Boyd said. "There should be something out there for them that is age appropriate, fun and allows girls to enjoy being themselves."

From June to August 2015, Madison and Mallory will do a ten-city tour to launch product starting in Los Angeles and ending in Memphis.

Look for the Angels and Tomboys scents soon on Target.com.

Purchases can also be made at angelsandtomboys.com. §

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Mid-South Made

Mid-South - Family Style Barbecue Prepared With Love!

by PEPPER LEWIS photography by BRYANT REDDICK

arnold

Front Row L to R: Kennedi Morgan, Michael Arnold, Pam Arnold; Back Row L to R: Christy Arnold Morgan, Malachi Morgan, Ciji Arnold

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This month, Memphis, Home of the Blues converts to Memphis-In-May/Home of World-wide Barbecue (BBQ). BBQ Connoisseurs descend on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River to indulge in the sweetest, dee-lighful, dee-licious, spiciest, can’t-be-found-anywhere-else BBQ! Each year, thousands pay homage to Memphis, the world crowned King of BBQ. While visitors discover the aromas and flavors on the river, locals have their favorite BBQ eateries scattered throughout the area.

Some stay close to the river and take the steps downstairs for Rendezvous FingerLickin’ flavors; some travel north for the kicking flavor at Cozy Corner; some point south for the ever-tasty Interstate BBQ; some trek east down Poplar to Corky’s; and, some travel even farther east to Germantown’s Commissary. But, if you point south-east and follow your quest for a combination of all worlds – you will find a Mid-South Made BBQ jewel – Arnold’s BBQ. Celebrating 37 years in business, this home-grown family owned, operated business serves some of the best BBQ in town! Step inside the door – your senses are immediately on high alert! Met by a beautiful smile and the aromas from the kitchen, that hits you is a distinctive peppery scent and your palate gets prepared . . . and then, your food is served and tingles with a combination of enticing flavors, home-cooking, Italian twangs, spicy kicks – all with that Arnold flavor. The BBQ flavor has a sweet approach yet a tangy finish and your taste buds dance (like their logo’s pig). BBQ is just the get-you-in-thedoor welcome mat . . . the real hook is the tender brisket, southern style turnip greens, and the to-die-for banana pudding! BUT, before you Southern Soul l May 2015

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think this is just another restaurant review, hold on – this is a Mid-South Made Family Story.

From humble beginnings, owner Michael Arnold was born and raised in the Memphis community. Developing his work ethics at his father’s knee, Michael started learning his work-ethics at an early age in his father’s auto-parts store, Rosewood Auto Parts. From his father, Arthur Arnold, Michael learned discipline and hard work. From his mother, he learned the patience of cooking until the flavor is just right. Michael grew up watching his father and his uncles, Leo and Julius, operate a family business. So, running a family business was second nature to him.

With the joy of cooking and the passion to deliver good food in his own business, on April 20, 1978, Michael opened the doors of Arnold’s Barbecue. Southern Soul sat down with Michael and his family to get a taste of the family story. When we arrived, the Arnold Family greeted us — Michael and Pam; their two daughters (Ciji Arnold and Christy Morgan) and their two grand-children (Malachi and Kennedi).

SS:How did you decide to start Arnold’s Bar-B-Q? Michael Arnold: I always loved cooking and barbeque was my favorite so when Mayor Loeb shut down his Barbecue businesses, I felt it was time for me to do what I enjoyed. I leased his restaurant building in Westwood and opened the doors. That was 37 years ago.

SS: How was it starting and owning your own business?

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Michael: We had a humble beginning. We were in Westwood from 1978 through 1984. Those were the hardest years. I can remember getting it started and where I wanted it to be.

Those were hard times but we believed in the product and that the people would come. So we stuck with it. But the hardest part was working those long hours. Working 15-16 hours a day, seven days a week. I worked those hours for too many years. It was - very challenging. I can remember days we would sit there all-day and only make $45 on a weekday and maybe $150 on the weekend. If it had not been for my dad, we wouldn’t have made it.

SS: How did your father help?

Michael: My dad owned an auto-parts store. When we were short of funds, he helped keep things afloat and he helped in the kitchen as needed.

SS: Did he have a specialty in the kitchen?

Michael: No, his specialty was managing money. He taught me the value of each dollar and how to manage it; how to save and make ends meet. Of course, he could cook but nothing special. He worked with me for eleven years, from 1978-89; up until he passed. The time and knowledge he invested in me are invaluable. He had superb business acumen.

SS: Now, you are closed on Sunday and Monday. Why those days?

Michael: When we were on Raines Road, the year of the ice storm (I think 1994), the temperatures dropped – it was really, really cold, around 8 or 9 degrees and my heat went

Mid-South Made out. I called all over town to get a repairman. Everybody told me it would be a week or two before they could get to me because they were so backed up. I ended up having to shut down for about a week. Mind you I was working seven days a week without a vacation. We didn’t lose customers.

So that showed me I could shut down and take a vacation, not having to work 7 days a week. I guess I was so worried about making money that I didn’t realize how much time with family I was missing. I just decided right then, if I can’t make it in 5 days, I won’t get it.

Mondays were not as busy as other days, probably because families enjoy leftovers from Sunday dinners.

SS: That decision happened when you were on Raines Road, why did you move from your original location?

Michael: That move was not by choice. Walgreens bought the corner our building was on. We had thirty days to move. Mind you, we didn’t receive any notice from the landlord or Walgreens.

We had a customer that stopped by and asked had I read the paper about Walgreens coming in. Of course, I was focused on working and had not read the paper. He said “well you need to,” and left the paper (folded to the page) on the counter. That evening, I read the article that stated Walgreens was moving to our corner and existing businesses had thirty days to relocate. Just like that! No warning, no notice, nothing.

There were three businesses located on the corner and we all were shut down without notice.

location. And it was back to hard times -- The day I opened my doors here, I had $3.00 to my name. I had maxed out my credit cards, my dad was gone and I didn’t have anyone to fall back on. But, we, as a family made it. Sometimes I think my name is Stretch Armstrong. People don’t understand, when you are in business and it’s you and your mate, you have the bills at home and the bills at work. And if it doesn’t work, one thing rolls into the other. Survival depends on you making it work.

Retaining good employees is always a hard challenge.

SS: So, how did you handle the move?

Pam: It was very sad for me.

Michael: We had no choice but to shut down. We had been there 7 years and just like that - we were out of business.

Out for a couple of months until we found the old Shoney’s building on Shelby Drive across from Bishop Byrne. We got it up to speed and welcomed our former and new customers.

SS: How long did you operate in the Shelby Drive (Whitehaven) location?

Michael: About 4 years. Then we moved to our current

SS: With any barbeque restaurant, the flavor and the sauce is what keeps customers coming back. How did you create your sauce recipe?

Michael: Our sauce is all my creation. I started playing around with different seasons and would let customers taste the different sauces. I began with Kraft barbeque sauce and added a bit of this or a bit of that and kept trying. Then, I started creating variations of my own barbeque sauce. I finally got the right taste.

I continued to let customers taste the different sauces and soon, they all started saying – “This is it.” And I went on from there. It took me a couple of months to get it just the way I wanted it; haven’t changed it since. You know the saying, “If it’s not broken; no need to fix it.”

SS: What’s your favorite dish that you prepare?

Michael: Baby Back Ribs and Hamburgers SS: When a first time customer asks you “what’s the best;” what do you suggest?

Michael: Everything.

Pam: Besides the Barbecue; catfish, turnip greens, rib tips and banana pudding. Those are our biggest demands.

SS: Have you changed your menu since you first opened?

Michael: Changed, not really. We expanded it here and there. We added catering as an additional revenue stream.

But, I haven’t changed the menu much since the beginning.

We just re-started serving breakfast, but only on Saturday 7-10 a.m.

Pam: Well, we stopped doing chitterlings (with a chuckle).

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SS: Stopped serving chitterlings? That’s such a staple dish of the South. Why? Michael: Chitterlings, that’s not a word we discuss around here, because . . .

Pam: We served Chitterlings for about fifteen years or so and always served them on Friday. I always did the cleaning and preparation. As soon as we opened on Monday, people started placing orders for Friday Chitterlings. By Friday, we had orders lined up on the back-board from one side to the other. We were picking around 400 pounds of Chitterlings for Friday’s menu.

Michael: So, she gave me an ultimatum. She said, “If you get another bucket of Chitterlings, I’m quitting and I’m gonna divorce you.” Well, I wasn’t letting that happen.

So, we haven’t had Chitterlings anywhere in sight since then.

SS: You mentioned you cater, is it the same menu?

Pam: Our catering menu offers many dishes not on our restaurant menu. We cater according to what the person wants. We offer everything - from soul food to Italian.

No party is too big or small. We have catered corporate events where attendees reached over 1,000.

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SS: Pam, have you always worked with Michael?

Pam: No. I started in 1989. Before then, I would help out early in the morning and then go to my job at National Bank of Commerce (NBC) in One Commerce Square. I would come back and work during my lunch break; return to my job and then come back after work.

Slowly it became too much and I left NBC. Mike and I have been married for 32 years and have been working together almost 27 years; but once we hit that door, I’m his employee. It’s all about business. He has given me a lot of communication skills. I’ve learned so much patience working with Mike. This business was meant for him because he has the patience and personality to deal with the customers.

SS: What’s a great day in the restaurant?

Michael: Being able to walk through those doors and service our customers and make them happy. We try to satisfy everybody that comes through that door. And we cook with love. If we don’t want it, we’re not going to give it to our customers.

SS: Do your daughters, Ciji & Christy, work with you also?

Mid-South Made

Michael: Yes. They have been here since the day they were old enough to not get in the way.

SS: Ciji or Christy – Do you remember your first experiences working in the restaurant?

Christy: I think I started at the age of three. My dad had me serving water to the customers.

Ciji: I remember my first day. I was a teenager, maybe 12 or 13. Daddy put me on the register. I was sweating bullets. I was dripping sweat all over. I was so nervous.

I love to be around people and talk to people; but that particular day — I was just like ‘oh my goodness,’ I’m out here in the public now, which made me nervous, but I got over it. Daddy coached me from back in the kitchen and I made it until closing. So, that was my first experience.

it’s a lost cause. It’s hard to find someone that sees something on the floor and takes the initiative to pick up the broom without someone telling them to do so. We are proud of our restaurant and people who work here must be proud too.

SS: I understand this is your after-work job. What’s your other job?

Ciji: I’m a paralegal; striving to become an attorney. Not sure what area of practice yet.

Christy: I’m a hair stylist. I own a salon in Collierville.

SS: What is your fondest memory with the family restaurant?

Christy: My fondest memory is food testing. My favorite food is not on the menu but we prepare them when we cater– quiches and homemade pizzas.

Of course, ribs. I have barbecue at least four times a week when I’m at work.

"My fondest memory is food testing."

SS: How is it working for mom and dad?

Ciji: It’s easy. Being here with mom and dad is my check-in during the week. I usually check-in to see how things are going or what I need to do to help out. We don’t live with our parents so; it’s an opportunity for us to see them. I look forward to working with them, being with them and all that. This is almost like my little release.

My job is work. Here, is almost fun; but even though it is fun, it’s still about business. Even when we’re not here, they call us and say ‘hey can you do this?’ So, we are always working.

SS: What is challenging about a family business?

Ciji: None working in a family business. My greatest challenge was when I went off to college - UT Chattanooga. Being away because I was so accustomed to being with my parents; working with them; going to church with them; pretty much doing everything with them.

Christy: The most challenging is finding good people to work here. It’s hard to retain good hard-working people.

It’s not from mom and dad’s part, they treat everybody that works here like family – always giving and doing for others. But, people don’t want to work hard; don’t want to give what it takes.

Ciji: Retaining good employees is always a hard challenge. We can train all day, but if a person is not retaining the knowledge and not willing to stick around,

Ciji: Taste testing food is my fondest too. My dad would always have us taste test the food first. That’s my favorite. My favorite food is hot wings and rolls. We are a family, friendly, fun place to dine. We cook food by the order. It’s fresh. I think a lot of people confuse us with fast food. And we’re really not fast food.

SS: Food is cooked by the order – does that apply only to phone orders?

Ciji: No. All food is cooked to order. As dad always says, “The only thing you can get cold here -- waiting for you -- is a drink. We pride ourselves in that. We make sure our food is hot and fresh. That’s what we really push.

Sometimes people miss that because they want food fast, fast, fast! Microwaved. We don’t do that. We also pride ourselves in consistency.

SS: Well, there you have it - A Mid-South Made family restaurant experience. The Arnold’s success is a testament that their love, hard work, and great BBQ go hand in hand and together create a Mid-South masterpiece!

Michael and Pam enjoy cooking for everyone and provide delicious offerings for all cravings or diets. Their entire menu is prepared daily, utilizing the freshest, local ingredients and cooked to-order. Stop by, try them.

Soon, they will be one of your favorite neighborhood eateries and dining destination. §

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Home-Cooking from sauce to desserts!

Family Owned

Catering Available

6721 E SHELBY DR. MEMPHIS, TN 38141

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BETWEEN ROSS RD. AND BENOIT DR. 901-566-0005

Southern Soul l May 2015

Lifestyles Coach Galloway, recognized his talent and encouraged Daniel to attend Memphis College of Art. His wife, Deanna, years ago urged Daniel to begin painting and today, is his biggest supporter. When asked how he arrives at his creations, he explained that he picks a subject, maps out a plan in mind, with an image in mind he starts painting. While painting he listens to a variety of music from old school, rap R & B including Marvin Gaye, Coldplay, Alabama Shakes, Sia, and Sam Cook; whatever moves him at the time.

For 22 years, Daniel preferred working with charcoal, pencil and ink. It is in this medium that he created his “Original Graphite” collection, which includes a portrait of Ray Charles and motorcycles. However, about a year ago, another mentor and artist, Emery Franklin, told him to switch from sketching in charcoal to painting with acrylics. Prior to this, Daniel never enjoyed painting with colors because he felt it messy; that colors were difficult to control; and, mastering a new medium would be a challenge for him.

Daniel spent six months researching the technique before he began using it and now, he loves painting with acrylics. Describing his style as “loose realism,” a mixture of chaos and control, he sometimes creates “happy mistakes” while making his art and it usually works out just fine.

Rodan, Larger Than Life

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A Memphis Original

by DONNA LUDWICK LEE

photography by ANNIE MILLER

Daniel Ross, Sr. signs his paintings “Rodan,” (a pen name he created, not to be confused with François-AugusteRené Rodin, a French sculptor who is one of Daniel’s inspirations). The signature, Rodan, is a moniker made by combining the last name Ross and the first name Daniel.

Daniel’s painting career began his junior year at Kingsbury High School when his mentor and teacher,

We visited Rodan at his home to see his collections and discuss his style. He paints in an upstairs studio in the Bartlett home he shares with his wife and two sons. Upon entering the home, in the foyer, you are greeted with a black and white portrait of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. that he painted because he wanted Dr. King in his home.

Rodan enjoys creating positive and negative in black and white. Leaving the foyer, in his living room, hangs a portrait Rodan painted of Amiri Baraka, who was a writer, a poet, and Civil Rights activist and it is proudly displayed as the focal point of the room.

In the family room hangs “The Agitator” a second portrait of Dr. King. The title “Agitator” was dubbed because Dr. King was referred to as an outside agitator when he traveled to Alabama in support of the transportation strike. Agitator sounds a bit negative when referring Southern Soul l May 2015

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Lifestyles to Dr. King, but the Merriam Webster Dictionary definition is: a person who tries to get people angry or upset so that they will support an effort to change a government, company, etc. Sounds about right!

Rodan’s paintings have been exhibited in numerous Memphis Exhibits. “The Agitator” was a member of the collection “Creating the Black Voice” which was displayed at Caritas Village in Memphis during their Black History Month Art Exhibit; his Original Graphite sketches were exhibited at Memphis Sounds “Eye to Eye,” a fundraiser for St. Jude; and most recently exhibited at Midtown Crossing Grill for the Art ShowCreative Crossing in April 2015, celebrating eight new local Memphis artists.

Other portraits created by Rodan and on exhibit include: John Lennon, Charlie Chaplin, Marilyn Monroe, Albert Einstein (entitled simply “Albert”), Marlon Brando (dubbed “The Don”), and Stevie Wonder (titled “Stevie”). Recently, Rodan was commissioned to paint a New York Landscape scene.

During our visit, Rodan worked on a portrait of Marvin Gaye, choosing Gaye’s socially conscious side and period of his life. He sketched lines on the canvas in charcoal and used acrylic paints of green and red for the background of the portrait before we arrived.

Rodan wants the background to be art itself.

At the end of the 10 to 12 hours it takes to finish a painting, Rodan says he gets a little wild and uses a “thump technique” with water on his finger he flicks the wet paint to enhance the background. He has already started envisioning his next painting – one for the upcoming Kentucky Derby.

Rodan’s next Exhibit -- Loose Realism by Rodan can be viewed May 30th from 6:009:00 at Pollards Smoke N Etc 9 North 3rd Street, Memphis TN where he also plans to hold art classes for adults within the upcoming year. You can reach Rodan via Instagram: rodan781 and Facebook: Rodan Ross or email: rodann68@gmail.com §

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Southern Soul l April 2015

Mid-South Made

Mid-South Malts

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Home-Brewing At Its Best

by PEPPER LEWIS

Are you a person who searches for the latest and greatest in beer and wines?

Have you ever thought of making your own? If so, we found just the right spot for you! Southern Soul stopped

by MidSouth Malts to learn how to home-brew. Homebrewing is a rewarding hobby if you like to cook or enjoy craft beer, wine or meads.

Home-brewing is a great way to mix your own ingredients, share the results with your friends, and save money while you are doing it.

When we walked in MidSouth Malts, we instantly knew we were in the right place – first thing that hits you is the delicious aromas.

Then, with a quick glance around, you see unique gifts, distinctive steins, and numerous beer signs. But, the best treasure in the store is the owner, Mike Lee, who has 30 plus years of homebrewing knowledge!

Mike started home-brewing in 1980 when his wife gave him his first beer kit as a Christmas present and he has been perfecting the craft ever since. Brewing beer and wine have become a life-long journey for Mike and his entire family. He is a Recognized Beer Judge according to the BJCP (Beer Judge Certification Program) and is an award-winning

brewer. He is a two-time winner of the Pro-Am Competition, sponsored by Bosco’s, and a member of the Great American Beer Festival competition in Denver Colorado.

In 1995, Mike purchased MidSouth Malts from Chuck Skypeck; head brewer at Bosco’s, and in 2001, relocated the store to its current location in Cloverleaf Shopping Center. When we arrived, Mike was brewing a batch out back and had two home-brews on tap for sampling. We sampled both. Outstanding!

We asked Mike what the greatest difference is between the big brewery taste and the home-brewing taste and learned most big breweries use cheaper ingredients such as rice and corn where most home-brewers use malted barley. When you home-brew, you create beer tailored to your taste and you get really fresh beer.

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Mid-South Made

There are two home-brew clubs in our area - Bluff City Brewers and Connoisseurs who meets the third Thursday of each month (7:00 p.m.) at Central BBQ on Summer Avenue; and the Memphis Brewers Association, who meets the first Monday of each month (7:00 p.m.) at Ciao Bella on Erin Drive.

Upcoming events include: May 2nd, 2015 is National HomeBrew Day where home brewers celebrate their craft by gathering at Bosco’s Squared to taste various styles of beer. The public is invited to come, watch, and learn how the process is done.

Memphis in May Barbeque Cooking contest is May 14-16.

The team, Hog Nebula will feature home-brewed beer at their tent.

Mike explained “If you can make macaroni and cheese out of a box, you can make beer.” We learned home brewing is easy to get started and the cost of ‘brew your own’ is far less than purchasing at the grocery. It takes four weeks to process five gallons of beer -- two weeks of fermentation and two weeks of carbonation. A starter kit at MidSouth Malts can be purchased for less than $150 and includes all the equipment and ingredients for your first batch of delicious home-brewed beer. Each batch makes two cases of beer $5.60 six-pack compared to the $8-$10 for specialty beer in stores. Mike has a wonderful selection of hops, yeasts, malts, extracts, grains and he took the time to explain the importance of each.

We also learned that now is the time to brew Kölsch and Saison beers for the summer. Kölsch is a specialty beer originating in Cologne (Köln), Germany. It is clear with a bright, straw-yellow hue, has a prominent but not extreme hoppiness, and is less bitter than the standard German pale lager. Saison is pale ale that is highly carbonated, fruity and spicy (sometimes from the addition of spices).

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National Mead Day is August 2nd and MidSouth Malts hosts mead tasting at the store. Mead is an alcoholic beverage created by fermenting honey with water, and adding various fruits, spices, grains, or hops.

For those thinking about starting home-brewing, MidSouth Malts has “Hoppy Hour” from 5:30 to 7:00 on Fridays where Mike (and customers) shares a beer. Beer kits make excellent gifts, especially with Father’s Day right around the corner.

If you are a home-brewer and are looking to step up your game, MidSouth Malts is the place for you. Their prices are reasonable, customers are entered in a "grain card" loyalty program, and Mike’s knowledge is priceless.

So, if you are looking for a new hobby or seeking a distinct beer taste; home-brewing is for you. Stop by MidSouth Malts and let Mike get you started! § Midsouth Malts 741 N White Station 901.682.1293 midsouthmalts.com

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Mid-South Made

Concrete

SLIDERS Memphis-Made

by TONI BLOUNT HARVEY photography by BRYANT REDDICK

C

Close your eyes……… Think back to the first time you saw the movie, The Color Purple. Remember the scene where Shug led a throng of people from the night-club to the church singing God Is Trying To Tell You Something!

The scene ended with Shug falling in her father’s embrace and whispering, “See Daddy, sinners have soul too!” In that single scene, the movie captured the merger of everentwined cultures of jazz, gospel, club, church, dance and praise.

For those of you who don’t remember the scene, Shug’s father was a Baptist preacher and Shug was a jook [sometimes referred to as “juke joint”] club singer. Shug’s character was depicted as one living among the dark shadows of the Negro underworld – in a jook club; and, the movie implied the two worlds (jook and church) would never meet. But, in that single memorable scene, an undeniable merger occurred.

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The feet are better rappers to music than the rappers are on music

Jeremy "Bobo" Greer

This year, an Oscar was awarded to the musical collaboration of balladeer John Legend and rapper Common for the powerful song Glory which touched justice, freedom and the will to fight for both.

The collaboration is a perfect convergence of rap, strings, and crooning and is a pure reflection of the times we are living. Many were surprised at the ease with which rap combined with a soft, smooth, symphonic orchestra. Others understand the similarity and the symmetrical merger.

Rap and hip-hop have also merged with mainstream cultures across 62 |

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the world. Whether we accept it or not, rap and hip-hop have revitalized the pulse of Black expression, the release of one’s spirit, and the unvarnished rhythms of our culture. Although sometimes rash and often vulgar, rap and hiphop represent, in some respects, an awakening of a new generation to our culture, our morals, our politics, our causes; an affirming defiance to white-imposed constraints, and a dais giving voice to our future.

Just as rap and hip-hop have merged into mainstream music, rap and hip-hop dance has converged with conventional dance forms. Often, rap and hip-hop dance draws vivid images of seductive movement, rhythmic swaying, and acrobatic jumping. Rarely are rap and hip-hop dance images considered soft, floating, gliding, and/or graceful movement. Even rarer is an image of rap and hip-hop dance steps merging with traditional ballet steps or merging with rhythmic bounces of the traditional 2-step or reminiscent of the jitterbug.

But . . . in the Mid-South, such a dancing convergence exists.

Born on the streets of Memphis, the fusion of rap and hip-hop dance steps with the acrobatics of break-dance; the grace of ballet; the steps of swing; and, a fast-paced free-style dance merged to form the gravity-defying dance known as Jookin’. Those who have perfected the dance and recognized for their artistry and expressiveness are known as Jookers.

Mid-South Made

Memphis born, Memphis bred, and now, spanning the entire globe. Created to the sounds of the Memphis underground Rap scene, Jookin’ is like no other combination of dance. Historically limited to the Memphis underground sounds, parking lots and street gatherings, Jookin’ is an intricate coordination of graceful arm movements, rhythmic bouncing, fancy frenetic footwork, and sensational improvisation. Traditionally performed by street dancers to the sounds of Memphis rap music and garbed in baggy jeans and tennis shoes, Jookin’s persona disguises its fluid speedy gentleness. Although performed in heavy tennis shoes, because Jookin’ is performed primarily on one’s toes, it has been dubbed urban ballet.

Dating back to the mid 80’s, Jookin’ has its origins in Memphis and derived from the popular street dance, the Gangsta Walk which emerged during the early days of Gangsta-Rap. Gangsta Walking has been around for a few decades and is typically performed to ‘crunk’ music and identified mostly by its ‘distinctive bounce’ and the dancers’ movements to the beat. The dance was mostly found in urban areas of Memphis such as North Memphis, South Memphis, Orange Mound, Whitehaven, and West Memphis. Gangsta Walking faded into history, replaced with Jookin’.

In 2011, the world was introduced to Jookin’ by Memphis native, Charles “Lil Buc” Riley, who has jooked across the globe from New York’s Lincoln Center and Guggenheim Museum; to Vail’s International Film Festival; Madonna’s Super Bowl halftime show; the Great Wall of China; on camera in a hip-hop video; and, the Cirque du Soleil in Las Vegas. During an interview last year, “Lil Buc” stated he was wowed by Jookin’ from the moment he first saw it. He shared his first Jookin’ experience was about ten years before where he saw a guy at a local skating rink glide across the carpet like he was on water. From that awe-struck moment, “Lil Buc” said he was hooked and Jookin’ became his everything - from the moment he woke to his day’s end. The ‘guy’ gliding across the floor was Jooker “Bobo.”

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Growing up in North Memphis, Jeremy “Bobo” Greer watched older guys dance on the street corners. At that time, in the early 90’s, the dance was more a Gangsta Walk style than Jookin’. He enjoyed watching the guys and at age seven, he started dancing - sliding across the floor swaying from side to side mimicking what he saw the older guys do.

He danced with such finesse; the older guys would put him up on a platform to watch him dance. Seven years later, “Bobo” met his father for the first time and discovered Jookin’ was in his blood. “Bobo’s” father was a well-known Gangsta Walker – back in the day.

Ballet Memphis Jookin' Politics Collaboration

By the late 90’s, the Gangsta Walk was vanishing into the unknown. At the same time “Bobo” was honing his natural talent; perfecting his craft; reviving the underground dance culture; and, becoming a Memphis Jookin’ legend. While attending Oak Haven High School, he danced wherever he could.

Groups would gather around him, promoters

A fast-paced free-style dance merged to form the gravity-defying dance known as Jookin

"G-Nerd" Fashion Model Jookin'

requested him as a host for their dance, party or a jam-session. Jookin’ became his only form of revenue and helped him survive. When asked if he gave birth to Jookin’, oddly, his response was “No.” But, he added, “Growing up - Jookin’ was a culture thing. Not something that everybody did, just something you grow up with. You grow up doing.

Jookin’ was a way of expressing yourself. Jookin’ is speech with feet. The feet are better rappers to music than the rappers are on music. Jookers speak with their feet. Jookin is self-expression dance whose main character is originality. Everybody is different and everybody’s style is different because every Jookin’ step is different and original.”

Today, Bobo, although in his early 30’s, still performs, stepping up his game; adding new steps, twists and glides and still introducing others to Jookin’. Bobo says Jookin’ is the force that kept him off the streets and out of trouble. Although many attribute the resurgence of Jookin’ to Bobo, when asked of his impact, he humbly responds, “I was always a loner so I used my own originality and inner passion to dance. The fact that young kids flocked to me to learn Jookin’ was just me sharing

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"G-Nerd" - Jookin Warz Showcase

Mid-South Made my talents with others. It was me using my talent as a voice, a positive voice. There were kids like “G-Nerd” who is one of the best Jookers out there. He started hanging around and watching me when he was in the eighth or ninth grade. That’s been about ten or twelve years ago. It’s a good feeling to know I was a positive impact on him and others. I always carried myself in a way to set the right example. Didn’t know I was becoming a legend. Not sure I am. But, since you are here interviewing me today, someone out there must have mentioned me. And, I really really appreciate that.”

"G-Nerd" Paris Le Monde Festival

Before leaving, Bobo cautioned, “Jookin’ got to stay original, progressive.

Mainstream America wants it because of guys like “Lil Buc,” but, “Lil Buc” is a dancer, a performer. He has raw dance talent. He is one of the best, but he has taken his Jookin’ commercial. That’s good.

But also not true to street Jookin’. You know, I can Jook my butt off, but I don’t have a lick of rhythm. Not one ounce. I can’t dance myself out of anything. Take me out of Jookin’ and I am lost. But, I’m still original! Jookin’ has to remain original, has to stay different, has to continue free-style, got to keep it fresh. There are still great Jookers out there. You should check out “G-Nerd”!”

Upon meeting Terrence “G-Nerd” Smith, you don’t get the impression he can offer jaw-dropping dance moves. Tall, lanky, and seemingly reserved; he approaches - soft voice and strong handshake. It only takes five minutes to grasp that most responses to your interview questions will be “yes” or “no.” Serious, straight to the point and focused, “G-Nerd” shared his journey saying, “The first time I saw Jookin’ was in class in the seventh grade. Our teacher left the room and this guy got up and started gliding across the floor. Other than Michael Jackson, I had never seen anything like that before. He was even smoother than Michael Jackson. That summer, I saw a VHS videotape of Southern Soul l May 2015

"G-Nerd" Paris Festival Stage

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Mid-South Made this guy named “Bobo” Jookin’. I started mimicking what I saw and tried what I saw other people do. Then, I met “Bobo” and watched him first-hand, added my own originality and the rest is history.”

Accompanying “G-Nerd” was another Jooker, Tia Waller. You automatically know Tia is a dancer. Her movements are smooth with natural flexibility and on her feet, are winged embellished tennis shoes waiting to take flight. She has danced for 22 years and has been Jookin’ for about eight years. By day, she is a professional stylist specializing in Healthy Hair Care and, in the evening, she is a professional Jooker! Passionate about dance, she has danced with Ballet Memphis in the dance collaboration, 2014 Politics; she has been a member of the Grit ‘N’ Grind Grizzlies Dance Squad; and, danced in a Hip-Hop Music Video. She describes Jookin’ as “a free style; fast pace; high energy dance with many complex footwork steps. With Jookin’, I can be free, express myself. It’s free-form dance, but sometimes you dance tag-team style. It’s rhythmic, lyrical on your toes. Constant action.”

“G-Nerd” describes Jookin’ as “a Memphis-original style dance reflecting us and our culture. It’s like no other dance in any other city. It is all Memphis. It is exciting and alluring. Jookin’ can be performed anywhere at any time to any genre of music; from rap, hip-hop, jazz, to classical. “Lil Buc” took Jookin’ to mainstream America when he did an improv piece with Yo-Yo Ma and danced to classical music. That’s when Jookin’ went viral. The world knows about Michael Jackson moonwalking and “Buc” has pushed that even higher. That’s what I love about it; I can express myself freely and differently each time and still enjoy it. Jookin’ will always be here. It will just keep changing. As long as there are young Jookers coming behind us with fresh legs, fresh toes, and can do ten hours on their toes, Jookin’ can go anywhere in the world.”

When asked if he knows he is referenced as one of the great Jookers, “G-Nerd” responded “Some say that. I just enjoy it. Jookin’ has taken me across the world.

Last year, I performed in Manchester, UK. A few months back, Ron Miles and I performed in Paris at Le Monde Festival. It’s an annual world-wide cultural festival that invites thousands of performers to share their culture representing their country. Events are held at different venues all over the city. This year, there were 30 countries represented. We were the only American performers. We danced to a sold-out crowd of 2,300 people. It was awesome and different. Well, the audience was different. During our performance, they didn’t react. Just sat there quietly. No clapping, buckin’ calls or whistles. Just quiet. Then, when we finished, the silence turned into a roaring clapping. They even clapped for an Encore. It was a really cool experience.”

Before we left, “G-Nerd” pulled his car in the alley and cranked up the radio, he and Tia found their beat --- and Voila! . . . Incredible, in-sync, movement!

They moved with the same rhythms, but with a disconnected unity. Hard to describe, it was like watching a dance team glide on air with a rhythmic bass beat.

Phenomenal!

Forget my first impression of “G-Nerd.” He is absolutely breathtaking. Now, I understand “Bobo’s” description. With profound volumes, “G-Nerd” definitely speaks with his feet! §

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Hey Myron

A Memphisoriginal style dance reflecting us and our culture.

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Fashion

SouthernStyle A Stroll Down Beale photography by BRYANT REDDICK

Clothing, shoes & accessories provided by Dillard’s Carriage Crossing Visit us and ask for any “Brand Specialists” Mention Southern Soul Magazine and receive a free gift with purchase.

Stylists: Carolyn Dockery, 68 | Southern Soul l Savannah May 2015Gamble

Models: Angie McGhee and Shawn Johnson Makeup & Hair: Kimberly Cook

Murano Linen Jacket, Pant and Shirt | Johnston & Murphy Penny Loafers Vince Camuto Maxi Dress | Natasha Earrings | Kate Landry Clutch | Sun & Sun Hat

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Fashion

Hart Schaffner Marx Suit | Gold Label Shirt | Johnston & Murphy Shoes BCBG Maxazria Dress and Necklace | Gianni Bini Heels

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Fashion

Gianni Bini Top, Skirt and Satchel| Steve Madden Heels | M. Haskell Necklace Thomas & Dean Shirt | Daniel Cremieux Pant and Vest | Cole Haan Loafers | Armani Exchange Watch

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Fashion

Hart Schaffner Marx Jacket, Jeans and Shirt | Johnston & Murphy Loafers | Armani Exchange Watch 72 |

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Michael Kors Dress | Gianni Bini Heels | BCBG Maxazria Necklace | Kate Landry Clutch

Fashion

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Fashion Polo Ralph Lauren Shirt and Shorts | Armani Exchange Watch | Cole Haan Loafers

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Fashion

Michael Kors Top, Shorts, Earrings, Bracelet, Wedge Shoes and Handbag

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Fashion

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Michael Kors Dress, and Shoes | Sun & Sand Hat

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Gianni Bini Romper and Sandals | Natasha Earrings | Coach Satchel | Jessica Simpson Sunglasses Daniel Cremieux T-shirt | Roundtree & Yorke Shorts | Cole Haan Loafers | Armani Exchange Watch

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Lifestyles

Taste Life With Kat Road Tripping

by KATHY KIRK-JOHNSON photography by ANNIE MILLER

I

It’s May. School is almost out and Memorial Day weekend is approaching.

Let’s hit the Road! My fondest memory of summer approaching was riding the bus to Dyersburg, Tennessee with my grandmother Lizzie.

She always traveled with a napkin full of money (wisely concealed in her buxomness) and would always fry chicken for us to eat, with white bread as an accompaniment. Years later as an adult while traveling back home from Nashville, Tennessee, I thought of my grandmother and longed for fried chicken as we drove back to Memphis.

Feeling the need to connect with such fond childhood memories, the family stopped by the infamous Prince’s Fried Chicken for some “Hot Fried Chicken” to pay homage to Grandma Lizzie.

This month, travel back down memory lane with me and feast southern style on some mouthwatering nostalgic picnic foods, including Kathy’s adaptation of hot fried chicken, Steen’s corn salad, snickerdoodles and refreshing peach lemonade.

Create an unforgettable journey as you fashion new memories for the next generation!

photo by APRIL TOLLIVER Southern Soul l May 2015

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Lifestyles

Kathy’s Hot Fried Chicken

This is my very own version of hot fried chicken. I could not bring myself to fry in lard as prepared at Prince’s Fried chicken, but, this has just enough spice so that children can enjoy as well.

INGREDIENTS 1 whole fryer (cut into 10 pieces - 2 wings, breasts halved into 4 pieces, 2 legs, 2 thighs) Butter Flavored Crisco Sandwich Bread Sliced Dill Pickles (for serving) Spice Mixture (Chicken) 1 Tbs. Garlic Powder 1 Tbs. Salt 1 Tsp. Seasoned Salt 3 Tbs. Cayenne Pepper ½ Tsp. Accent (optional) (Marinade) ½ Cup Hot Sauce ½ Cup Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce 1 Cup Buttermilk 3 Tbs. Sugar (Flour) 3 Cups Flour (All Purpose) 1 Tbs. Garlic Powder 2 Tsp. Salt 2 Tbs. Cayenne Pepper Toss chicken with spice mixture in large bowl. Place flat in a baking dish, cover and chill at least 1 hour. Whisk marinade ingredients in large bowl, then pour on chicken and marinate overnight. Whisk flour ingredients in another large bowl. Shake off excess marinade, then dredge in flour mixture, (working with 1 piece at a time) and place on a baking sheet. In a Dutch oven, melt shortening to measure 3” over medium-high heat. Before frying, lower to medium heat. Working in small batches (3-4 pieces), fry chicken covered for 7-9 minutes, turning once, and then frying another 8-9 minutes uncovered until skin is deep golden brown and crisp, about 15–18 minutes.

Fry dark pieces together and white pieces together. Transfer to a baking sheet lined with sandwich bread. Top with pickle slices and serve.

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Steen’s Corn Salad 2 Cans Shoepeg White Corn (Drained) 6 Small Green Onions (Chopped Small) 2 Ripened Tomatoes (Chopped Small; Drained) 1 Medium Jalapeno Pepper (Seeded, Finely Chopped) 2 Tbs. Hellmann’s Mayonnaise 1 Tsp. Sugar 1 Dash Cayenne Pepper Salt (To Taste) Mix together mayonnaise, sugar and salt. In separate bowl, toss corn, onions, tomatoes and jalapeno pepper. Pour mayonnaise mixture into tossed corn mixture and stir until blended. Chill at least 30 minutes before serving.

Snickerdoodles* 1-Cup Butter Flavored Soft Shortening 1-Cup Sugar ½ Cup Brown Sugar 2 Eggs 2 ¾ Cups All-Purpose Flour (Sifted) 2 Tsp. Cream Of Tartar 1 Tsp. Baking Soda ½ Tsp. Salt Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Sift Flour, cream of tartar, baking soda and salt into a bowl. In a separate mixing bowl, thoroughly mix shortening, sugar and eggs together. Stir sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture until blended well. Place dough in parchment paper (or ungreased non-stick baking sheet) and chill at least 1 hour.

Using your hands, roll dough into small 1-inch balls (the size of small walnuts), then roll in sugar mixture and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake until lightly browned, but still soft (when cookies flatten with crinkled tops), around 8 -12 minutes. * If you completely run out of time, purchase ready to bake sugar cookies, roll dough in a mixture containing 1 tablespoon of light brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of white sugar, and 1 tablespoon of Cinnamon, then bake according to package directions. Yields about 5 doz. 2-inch cookies.

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Lifestyles

Southern Peach Lemonade 6 Cups Water 1 ½ Cups Sugar 1¼ Cups Fresh Squeezed Lemon (10 Fresh Lemons) 1 Cup Looza Brand Peach Nectar (More Can Be Added To Taste) Garnish (Frozen Peach Slices, Fresh Mint) In large saucepan over medium heat, add 2 cups water, sugar, peach nectar and 1 tsp. lemon juice. Simmer until the sugar dissolves. Do not boil. Once peach mixture has slightly thickened, remove from heat. Add remaining lemon juice and pour into pitcher of water. Stir. Refrigerate, if desired, or pour over ice and garnish with lemon slices, mint and fresh peach slices.

Setting the Scene: Layer a picnic basket with festive colored tea towels. I prefer cloth napkins instead of paper, but if you must use paper, coordinate the colors with your tea towels. I used red, white and blue in honor of Memorial Day. Use cupcake boxes lined with parchment paper to transport cookies.

Fried chicken becomes wet from the steam when stored in plastic. To keep your hot fried chicken crunchy, place in paper bags over sandwich slices (don’t forget the pickles on top), or use remaining cupcake boxes to make boxed lunches. Utilize individual sized storage containers and disposable wooden spoons for the corn salad.

Pack plenty of dry snacks (chips, trail mix, etc.) to munch on during the ride. Utilize a thermos to transport lemonade and pour into travel mugs to drink when thirsty! Recline your seat back, relax and Enjoy! § Southern Soul l May 2015

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uMatter!

uMatter

photography by: ANNE MILLER

Southern Soul Magazine believes in supporting our youth and giving them a voice. We visited Manassas High School and asked: What is special about your hometown?

When I was younger, I imagined myself as‌ What is your most valued possession? (Explain)

What are three things you must do in your lifetime?

Manassas High School

"A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots."

- Marcus Garvey AALIYAH HARDIN

12th | Career Choice: Pediatric Nurse I am actually not from Memphis. I was born and raised in Byhalia, MS. My hometown is very small. I love the country and how quiet it is. I love going there for the summer.

A nurse, because I love going to the doctor. When I go to the doctor, I actually learn a lot of new things. I think being a nurse would be a great and enjoyable career.

My education, because no one in my family received a high school diploma. I want to be the first in my family to graduate from college and have a career.

Get an education; give back to my country; and, treat everyone for who they are, no matter what.

CALVIN GILL, JR.

11th Grade | Career Choice: Businessman/Psychologist Its culture, history and people. I am extremely proud of the culture that originated here in Memphis and its history is pure amazement. There are so many great people here that all possess a spirit of overwhelming happiness because they are proud of the hometown that we all share.

A pastor of a megachurch. I have always wanted to speak to people and reach their minds through powerful words. I remember when I was younger, every Sunday I would preach in my room to all of my wrestling men and stuffed animals.

My mindset, because it separates me from the majority allowing me to always think outside of the box during the most challenging situations. There are very few individuals here that have a positive mindset and I am proud to say I am one that does.

Become a successful person; motivate others; and, always work hard in everything I do.

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We asked:

uMATTER

What is special about your hometown?

When I was younger, I imagined myself as…

What is your most valued possession? (Explain) What are three things you must do in your lifetime?

EDWARD HAYES, IV

11th Grade | Career Choice: Biomedical Engineering I love the city of Memphis. It is truly a blue collar town. The people here are hardworking and determined. We work and have an undying desire to achieve success. We don’t take no for an answer.

Also, who can deny the outstanding culture, music and food?

A pilot. I always wondered how massive steel can soar like an eagle.

That was always so cool to me.

My family and friends. Without them I wouldn’t be where I am today.

They motivate me to strive for excellence in everything I am involved with.

Skydiving-I’ve always wanted to do it. Travel the world-I would love to learn about all the different cultures of the world. I think it would be great to broaden my horizons. Change the world for the better-I feel like as we move forward, we should look past the differences that we have and focus on the survival of future generations.

VANDREIL PRUITT

12th Grade | Career Choice: Teacher My hometown is special to me because we support all the time. Not just the people who are famous but even the people who are still in school. They’re always telling us about getting educated. Going to college is really important to everyone here.

A famous singer, because I’ve been singing in church since I was six and when I sing I feel like that’s where I belong, on stage.

My Bible, because whenever I open it, I always feel a very calm feeling. That lets me know that God is real.

Well the first thing I must do is finish high school, go to college and stay in church. The reason I said “stay in church” is because it doesn’t stop after you graduate from college. We’re all here for a reason and we have a purpose and if we keep being faithful to Him, He will reveal it.

When praises go up blessings come down.

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uMATTER

KYLE MOTEN

12th Grade | Career Choice: Nurse/CMA or Sports Agent Memphis is very unusual and unique at the same time.

Memphis is very diverse in many ways…from different races to people who practice different religions. It’s a beautiful thing to see a city full of people learning to coexist with one another. Memphis has its flaws, but it’s my hometown and I love my city.

A NBA player, but I didn’t grow very much. As I matured into a young adult, I realized I could be anything I wanted to if I just put in the work to perfect my craft.

My respect. My great grandma taught me at a young age that I should show respect to everything around me and most of all respect of myself. I can honestly say respect has taken me a long way.

Get closer to God each and every day; take care of my family; and, give back to my community.

MARSHALIA MONTGOMERY

12th Grade | Career Choice: Agriculture/Wildlife Rehabilitator The food is awesome. The people (most of them) are extremely nice and welcoming. The spirit for basketball and baseball, it’s not too big, but not too small regardless, we enjoy it..

A zoo keeper, because I love to go to the zoo and watch the animals and just wonder what it’s like to take care of them and make them feel loved. This has inspired me to become a wildlife rehabilitator.

My education because without it, I wouldn’t be able to achieve the things I have and will achieve.

Live in the United Kingdom for at least 2 to 4 years; be the best I can be; and, make my mom proud over and over again.

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We asked:

uMATTER

What is special about your hometown?

When I was younger, I imagined myself as…

What is your most valued possession? (Explain) What are three things you must do in your lifetime?

MAKAYLA WALKER

12th Grade | Career Choice: Registered Nurse The presence of St. Jude Cancer Research Hospital for children fighting against the cancer disease. As a future nurse, I feel as if hospitals such as St. Jude offer so much care and essential therapy for those ill young souls and such a wonderful place of healing happens to exist in the heart of Memphis.

An aspiring artist that would influence the world through works of art that basically described my life, failures and accomplishments through drawings and paintings.

My most valued possession is not physical actually. The memories of my father before his death are what I hold near and dear to me and value the most. They are all what I really have left of him besides materialistic items.

In my lifetime, I wish to do the following, travel the world, fall in love, and have a beautiful family to protect and adore.

DERRICA MOTEN

12th Grade | Career Choice: Spoken Word Poet, Activist and Filmmaker Memphis is very diverse and unique. It is huge in entertainment for it is the home of the blues and soul music. Isaac Hayes is actually a graduate of my school, Manassas High.

A homicide detective. I was inspired by the character Adrian Monk from the television series “Monk”. He was the greatest detective in the world. He could solve a case with the smallest unnoticeable evidence that any regular detective would never notice. But in the midst of my sophomore year, I was inspired by actress, poet and song writer, Look Alive. She had a different flow in her words than what I had heard before. She knows how to move a crowd with powerful messages. I realized that is something I would like to accomplish with the African American community and the world.

My poems because they are very personal and essential to my goals. Even though, as I continue to write more and they’ll begin to overflow, they will always be a part of me, and also a gift of inspiration to others.

Goals I want to achieve before it is my time to be with the Lord, is to become a poet. I want to be added to the list of amazing public figures of activists along with those before me such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X and so on.

Finally, I want to be able to put my entire family in a better financial standing.

I want them to have a much better life than what they’ve already lived.

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We asked: What is special about your hometown?

When I was younger, I imagined myself as…

What is your most valued possession? (Explain) What are three things you must do in your lifetime?

LOUIS FULTON

10th Grade | Career Choice: Computer Science My hometown is special, because it’s calm, less tornados happen here than any other town and I believe I can do well here. Also, great music legends have come from here.

School Highlights Manassas High School is the Proud Recipient of:

• •

A doctor or police officer in my younger years.

My family is my most valued possession, because I love them and I will not put anything over them but God. Go to college; stay faithful to my family; and, become the person I dream to being in life.

There are many special things about my hometown, but the most special thing I believe is great in my city is the Fed Ex Forum. Why? Well, because it hosts many events that the community enjoys, such as wrestling, basketball games, concerts, plays and etc.

Someone who has the power to accomplish anything. My mind was like a robot that knew everything. I believed my abilities were able to conquer all aspects of life.

My family. I value family a lot because they motivate me, keep me focused and bring joy to my life. Family means more to me than anything in the world.

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Graduate college with a degree in business administration; start a great, well, suitable family; and, make money. These three things will feel like a completion or Southern Soul l May 2015 success in my future.

2014 Steve Harvey and State Farm “ Moving to a Better State” Award

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2015 New Leaders Roberts Award

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2015 Target Grant 2015 Lowes Grant 2015 Robotics Team Placement in Smoky Mountains Regional

JERICA JONES

12th Grade | Career Choice: Business Administration

2013 Ellen DeGeneres Award

Competition

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100 % College Acceptances for 2013 and 2014 Graduates and still counting

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Robust college and career counseling program that fosters post-secondary and work experiences

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Nurturing learning environment that supports student exploration of academic experiences that extend beyond the classroom

City University Schools, located in Whitehaven, is a network of four college preparatory charter schools—grades 6-12. The schools provide scholars full access to a diverse offering of courses, programs and extra-curricular activities in a safe and academically rigorous environment.

To learn more about City University Schools, receive enrollment information or to arrange a campus tour, please call us or visit our campus at any time.

TO DISCOVER TO KNOW TO PROTECT

City University Schools 1475 East Shelby Drive Memphis, Tennessee 38116 901-775-2219 www.cityuniversityschool.org

City University Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in any of its policies, practices or procedures.

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Spotlight

The April 4th Foundation 15th Annual Commemorative Awards photography by TYRONE EASLEY

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Mallori King - Footsteps Participant

The April 4th Foundation held its 15th Annual Awards Banquet; proudly commemorating the 47th Anniversary Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s assassination. The Foundation’s founder and Chairman, Rev. Johnson E. Saulsberry, Jr., brought together two very strong and once opposing forces in the fight for civil rights – James Meredith, the first Negro student admitted to the segregated University of Mississippi and Peggy Wallace Kennedy, the daughter of George C. Wallace, the past pro-segregation governor of Alabama. Honoring the courage of James Meredith and Peggy Wallace Kennedy’s advocacy of justice and equality for all, the Foundation awarded both with the 2015 I Am A Man Award. The I Am A Man Award is presented to individuals who continue to strive to keep Dr. King’s

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“Dream” alive and continues to move it closer to fruition.

Each year, the April 4th Foundation empowers local youth in its Footsteps Youth Leadership program designed to enlighten, empower and educate 9th and 10th grade students with historical events surrounding Dr. King’s assassination. Now in its seventh year, Participant Mallori King, spoke sharing her experiences with the Program and the impact on her life.

Bobby Seale, Civil Rights Activist and founder of the Black Panthers was the evening’s keynote speaker and delivered a prolific, profound message to the 1,000 attendees at the Foundation’s Gala. §

Spotlight

L to R: Bobby Seale, Dr Judy Meredith, James Meredith, Atty Regina Newman

James Meredith, Rev Johnson E Saulsberry, Jr, Bev Johnson, Bobby Seale Founder, Rev Johnson E. Saulsberry, Jr.

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Spotlight

22nd Annual Unity Brunch

Manassas High School Alumni Association photography by TYRONE EASLEY

M Manassas High School, Class of 1965

Manassas High School Alumni Association held its 22nd Annual Unity Brunch celebrating Class of 1965’s 50th Reunion and Manassas High School’s 116th Anniversary.

Attendees were lifted with a message from the keynote speaker, the Honorable Judge Monte D. Watkins, a graduate of Manassas Class of 1965. He urged his fellow Alums to continue Manassas’ legacy; to guide the next generation and refortify our community’s future. Sharing his experiences as a criminal court Judge, he stressed that we all must guide the next generation and help it grasp the necessity and value of education or watch the demise of our future.

Dr. Willie Mae Williams Crittendon received the 2015 Gold & Blue Award for her exceptional contributions and impact on our youth, their parents, and for the benefit of all. Dr. Crittendon, a proud graduate of Manassas Class of 1954, also encouraged the attendees to support our youth and the

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next generation. Sharing her life philosophy, Dr. Crittendon attributed her many contributions and drive to one of her favorite sayings, “We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give.” [Winston Churchill] Dr. William C. Hurd, President of the Class of 1965, presented a Class of 1965 Donation of Five Thousand Dollars to the Alumni Association. Music was provided by Manassas Alumni Jazz Band led by Mr. Eddie Love, Class of 1965.

Manassas High School Alumni Unity Brunch is held annually on the 1st Saturday of April. Next year, it will also host a Grand Reunion (July 28-31, 2016) with a four day summer event featuring a Mardi Gras Gala celebrating "Unforgettable 117 Years of Excellence.” For information contact Nadia Kennard Chairperson @ 901.581.6071. §

Spotlight

Dr. William C. Hurd presents Class of 1965 Alumni Donation

Honorable Monte D. Watkins

Honorable Monte D. Watkins and Dr. Willie Mae Williams Crittendon

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2015 Women of Excellence

The NEW Tri-State Defender’s Annual WOE Awards Saluting TSD’s 2015 Women of Excellence

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photography by KELLEY EVANS

Celebrating the contributions and achievements of African–American women, The NEW Tri-State Defender held its eighth Annual Women of Excellence Awards Brunch and Awards Celebration.

President & Publisher Bernal E. Smith, II greeted the hundreds of attendees with a powerful delivery of the importance of African-American women leaders and their contributions to our community. Sharing his own recent experience with a young man on Facebook, Mr. Smith emphasized the role of African-American women in our youth’s future. Publisher Bernal E. Smith, II and Executive Editor, Dr. Karanja A. Ajanaku, inducted fifty-one Women of Excellence into the 2015 Class. Rodney Dunigan served as the Champagne Brunch Master of Ceremony and Jazz Selections were provided by Marcus Scott & Love Theory.

President and Publisher Bernal E Smith, II

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