VOL. 61, No. 8
One Section/Inserts
February 16 - 22, 2012
75 Cents
‘The voice of a generation’
Whitney Elizabeth Houston 1963 - 2012
Survived my darkest hour, my faith kept me alive I picked myself back up, hold my head up high I was not built to break I didn’t know my own strength There were so many times I wondered how I’d get through the night I thought I took all that I could take I didn’t know my own strength
Special to the Tri-State Defender
by Sonya Young
Whitney Houston “I Didn’t Know My Own Strength”
• Whitney Houston: What can be learned from her tragic death? See Opinion, page 4.
www.tristatedefender.com
• Michael Jackson, Bernie Mac, Etta James, Don Cornelius and now, Whitney Houston! See Entertainment, page 11.
As news of the death of legendary pop diva Whitney Houston spread throughout the Landers Center arena in Southaven, Miss. Saturday night (Feb. 11), fans gathered for the New Edition Reunion Tour wondered if band member Bobby Brown, ex-husband of Houston, would appear. Brown and Houston married in 1992 and spent 14 tumultuous and controversial years together amid later-confirmed rumors of drug abuse until divorcing in 2007. They were
parents to one daughter, Bobbi Kristina, 18. At the concert venue, cell phones began to light up with breaking news alerts announcing Houston’s death, security tightened and media was banned from filming Brown and his band mates onstage. As the crowd waited for the show to begin, one concertgoer, who wished to remain anonymous, told The New Tri-State Defender that she’d just spoken with New Edition’s manager and was told that the concert would still go on. SEE WHITNEY ON PAGE 2
IN POLITICS
Don’t be late for early voting Yes, the primary is important Special to the Tri-State Defender
by Tony Jones
Getting to know you…
Memphis Grizzlies newbie Quincy Pondexter attended his first Staxtacular event and snapped candid photos of teammates and attendees after asking to borrow the camera of New Tri-State Defender reporter, Kelley Evans. “Iʼm very shy. This camera helped me get to know people. It made my night friendly. I was able to bond with our fans and I thanked them for attending such a beneficial event,” Pondexter said. (See Community, page 10). (Photo by Quincy Pondexter)
- INSIDE • Childhood obesity and diabetes can be arrested with parental guidance. See Health, page 6. • The search for a soul mate is an inward journey. See Religion, page 8. • ‘The Loretta McNary Show’ goes to the Oscars. See Entertainment, page 11.
MEMPHIS WEEKEND
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
H- 5 7o - L - 4 2o Su nny
H- 5 2o - L - 3 6o Mostl y Cl o udy
H- 4 9o - L - 3 3o S unn y
REGIONAL TEMPS LITTLE ROCK NASHVILLE JACKSON, MS
Friday H-59 L-43 H-56 L-37 H-65 L-47
Saturday H-53 L-34 H-55 L-35 H-54 L-40
Sunday H-53 L-34 H-45 L-27 H-57 L-36
People around the world set themselves on fire, battle tanks with rocks and will out-row a ship to the docks to get the right to vote. Meanwhile, the heads of the Democratic and Republican parties here offer spot-on advice to Memphians who think participating in the March 6th primary election is not worth their time. Don’t fool yourselves, they say. If you want to affect big issue concerns such as the voter photo ID law, the civil liberty questions surrounding potential drug testing for food stamp applicants, or even the proper way to control pit bulls, turnout is a key in driving the decisions that we will all have to live with later. Vote or don’t vote, the primary will decide several crucial races that affect us everyday. Early voting for the primary started Wednesday (Feb. 15) at the Shelby County Election Commission downtown at 157 Poplar, and will run through Tuesday, Feb. 28th. Satellite locations will begin accepting voters Tuesday, Feb. 21. Early voting will conclude at all locations Tuesday, Feb. 28th, after SEE VOTE ON PAGE 2
‘Great Debaters’ challenge ‘Ole Miss’ to historic debate Special to the Tri-State Defender
by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell More than seven decades after “The Great Debaters” of Wiley College in Marshall, Texas made history by knocking off the national champs of the University of Southern California, the latest version of the team will take the stage in Memphis for another historic contest. This time the opponent is the University of Mississippi at Oxford, with the two squads facing off on Thursday, March 1, 2012 at 7 p.m. at New Sardis Baptist Church. The teams will ponder “Whether President Obama Should Be Re-elected or Not.” “The fact that this debate is taking place reflects the great transformation which Ole Miss has undergone over the past few decades,” said the Rev. Dr. L. LaSimba Gray, pastor of New Sardis Baptist Church and the event’s host. “This marks a new day in Mississippi and a new era in the South. Students making logical arguments and issuing rebuttals gain invaluable experience in critical thinking and persuasive delivery. I think we will all learn a great deal from these students.”
The backdrop
The year was 1935. Professor
Melvin B. Tolson of Wiley College made the long journey to Los Angeles with his “Great Debaters” to challenge the nation’s champion debate team at the University of Southern California (USC). Tolson’s students were grandchildren of former slaves, polished in the art of persuasive argument and public speaking. Their challenge to face USC seemed more than ambitious; it was ludicrous. However, the small east Texas school had beaten every noted “black” institution in the country. An interracial challenge was imminent. Tolson and his team understood all the implications – “winner take all.” As the saga unfolded, a dramatic spectacle was being staged. Tolson’s debaters were not only brilliant and skillful debaters; they had also studied theatrical techniques of live stage acting under his watchful eye. Quite early in the contest, it was evident that USC was no match for Tolson’s team. The unthinkable happened: David had slain Goliath. Descendents of slaves had crushed the nation’s collegiate debate champions. Their victory, however, was hollow and more symbolic than substantive. “Negro colleges” could not be members of the Debate Society. Therefore, the championship title remained with USC. The mere satisfaction of winSEE DEBATE ON PAGE 3
“The Great Debaters” of Wiley College in Marshall, Texas. (Courtesy photo)
The University of Mississippi debate team. (Courtesy photo)
NEWS
Page 2
Tri-State Defender
February 16 - 22, 2012
The GOP and outreach; Dealing with the new voter photo ID law Special to the Tri-State Defender
by Tony Jones
In the souvenir program for its annual Lincoln Day Gala, the Shelby County GOP listed as the third platform of its principles a commitment to “Reject divisive racial tactics of any kind.” The book’s cover features a button shot of GOP legend (now U.S. Sen.) Lamar Alexander. Turn the page and the first face you see is state Sen. Mark Norris, whose name is practically a scourge among many liberal and AfricanAmerican politicians. Trace that reaction to the myriad and varied legislative moves Norris has spearheaded in the Tennessee General Assembly as the Senate Majority Leader. While Justin Joy, the local Republican Party chairman, was not asked to address Norris’ actions directly, The New Tri-State Defender did forwarded him a specific question that a number of TSD readers have asked: How does the party plan to stem the alienation black voters feel whenever a Republican is mentioned? “I believe the basic Republican message of personal responsibility and that individuals, not government, make the best decisions for themselves and their families, is a message that resonates with Americans, regardless of their race or background,” Joy answered. “While the Republican Party has been using traditional as well as new media to get this message out, we are also looking for other ways to reach out to voters. For instance, I appreciated the opportunity to address students at a NAACP event at LeMoyneOwen College last year at a very informative forum on engaging young people in the po-
litical process. “As the ways in which we communicate change, we have to continue to look for new ways to reach out to all Americans, regardless of their age, race or background.”
** In January, Tennessee’s new photo voter ID law went into full effect, with those who want to cast ballots now required to have government-issued photo identification. The change is being watched warily by many, including local Democratic Party Chairman Van Turner, who quotes a former slave and abolitionist in his reflection on the new law, its possible effect and what mindset would be needed to uproot it. “For me, I think of what Fredrick Douglas said. ‘No one is going to give it to you, you got to go out and take it.’ If you want change you have to go out and make the change,” said Turner. “We will have to see when the overall numbers come in if it (the photo voter ID law) has been damaging, but I think that people that care about the overall process will make sure their records are in order,” said Turner. “My fear is that those who are not aware will come out to vote for the president and not be able to because they have not been informed. But my hope is that since this is a presidential election year the excitement about President Obama will remain, and we will have turnout numbers as impressive for his re-election as we did for his first election. “That will stem the effect of the Voter ID law some, but it is being challenged by the Justice Department in North Carolina. I just hope we will continue to work to ensure fair elections without all these tricks one
WHITNEY
day.” Here are Joy’s thoughts about the effect of the new law: “Particularly for the elections later this year in August and November, I don’t believe that anyone, and especially anyone who reads the newspaper, is going to have a reasonable excuse that they did not know about the new law or that they haven’t had an opportunity to comply with the law,” he said. “No election is perfect but I think we all want a system where everyone’s vote counts and no one’s vote is canceled out by someone who should not be voting. We have to show photo identification to prove who we are for all kinds of things in today’s world, many of which are not nearly as important as voting. By requiring that people prove their identity with a photo ID card in order to vote, I think we are increasing confidence in the election system.”
‘Twang of high drama’
One race that does have that usual Memphis twang of high drama is the contest for General Sessions Court Clerk. Incumbent Otis Jackson is facing a legal issue after being indicted. He is accused of strong arming employees in the clerk’s office to raise money for his campaign. Jackson’s re-election bid is part of his response to the indictment. He maintains his innocence. Six challengers look to take him out, including local heavyweight Sidney Chism, presently county Commissioner and long time Democratic Party operator. Independent Patricia McWright Jackson will be on the ballot, but due to her nonparty affiliation will be included on the August 2 general election ballot.
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
“They said they just need some time to get themselves together,” she reported. “Bobby is having a hard time.” Concert promoter Julius Lewis, who was responsible for bringing the show to the Mid-South, told the TSD that Brown was having crying fits. Lewis didn’t know until 20 minutes before they went on stage if all or none of the group would perform. “Bobby all of sudden came in and said, “Let’s go, boys. Tonight I’m gonna turn this (expletive deleted) out.” Lewis said he was glad that Brown had the support of the guys he grew up with. They consoled Brown after he heard the news. Even the other act on the ticket, K-Ci and JoJo, gathered around Brown to help him grieve, said Lewis. Concertgoer Tammy Collins of Memphis said it was like a member of your family had died. “No matter what she and Bobby (Brown) had gone through, I feel for him,” she said. The lights went down around 7:35 p.m. and radio personality Stan Bell kept the crowd entertained as the show sputtered along in what appeared to be stalling to allow Brown to compose himself. Bell told the TSD that his heart was heavy. “Whitney did so much for the (music) industry,” said Bell. “Prayers go out to the family.” New Edition initially took the stage minus Brown, who finally appeared to thunderous applause at the start of the band’s second number, “Hit Me Off.” “Coming on this stage was the hardest thing to do,” Brown shared. “You paid your money. You came to see us. After 29 some years….” The show went on, with Bobby vacillating between the hardcore artist fans remembered and a grieving ex-husband and father. At one point, Brown shouted, “I love you, Whitney.” His mood seemed good considering, and he performed well, even singing one line of his hit, “Tenderoni” to his former wife as he pointed to the sky. Fans cheered him on, chanting “Bobby” and offered applause. He held his composure until the end, leaving the
Whitney Houston (Courtesy photo) stage, and then returning to close the show with the group. Brown ended the evening asking for prayers for his daughter, Houston’s mom, and himself, “…if you find some time….”
‘Greatest voice I’ve ever heard’
What ABC News called “The voice of a generation” fell silent Saturday (Feb 11) in a Beverly Hills hotel just hours before Houston, 48, was scheduled to attend a preGrammy Awards party given by her mentor and music producer Clive Davis. Her voice, described to the Toronto Sun as “the greatest voice I’ve ever heard” by musical legend Tony Bennett, lifted her to fame worldwide, and landed her in the Guinness Book of World Records in 2007 as the most awarded fe-
male artist of all time. The vocalist became an immediate sensation in 1985 with the release of her debut album “Whitney Houston,” which scored a record seven consecutive hits. In her nearly 30-year career, Houston released seven studio albums, three movie soundtracks and starred in three motion pictures. All of her albums have diamond, multi-platinum, platinum or gold certification. According to the Associated Press (AP), Houston was found in the bathtub, “underwater and apparently unconscious,” in Room 434 of the Beverly Hilton hotel where the party was to take place. AP broke the news that evening after receiving word from Houston’s publicist, Kristin Foster.
Triple threat
Houston was in the first
For this early voter, it was no line, no waiting at the Shelby County Election Commission downtown late Wednesday. (Photo by Warren Roseborough)
VOTE
reason Democratic Party Chairman Van Turner and Republican Party Chairman Justin Joy say people shouldn’t think of this primary, or any election, as not worth their time. “The party doesn’t get involved in the primaries, we step in to help elect the candidates the people choose, but I think the district attorney’s race is a crucial race,” said Turner. “It is directly related to the education issues, crime issues and economic issues of this community. And it would be beneficial to the city as a whole if we have someone that is dedicated to applying justice in a way that redeems people while we are able. “I’m a firm believer in punishing ardent criminals, but the district attorney has a lot of power to turn people away from or into the system. We can’t lock away our problems and ignore the conditions that influence and create them.”
The Democratic presidential nominee is a given, but Tennessee is expected to be a pivotal location for the potential Republican nominee, said Joy. “Just today,” he said, “the Tennessee Republican Party announced it was launching a web feature called ‘It’s Tennessee’s Turn’ that contains information on the presidential nominee candidates as well as information on voting in Tennessee in the March 6 primary. The Shelby County Republican Party will continue making its own efforts to get people informed about the March 6 primary in Tennessee, including the local primary elections. “While I realize most of the excitement and focus is on the presidential race, voters in Shelby County need to get to know the candidates and make an informed choice on election day for the candidate to represent their party in the general elections later this year.”
grade when she picked up the nickname “Nippy” because she was so small, WABC-TV in New Jersey reported. She referred to the name in her remake of the Stevie Wonder song, “I Was Made to Love Him.” Her lithe stature and striking good looks made her one of the most sought after teen models of the 1980s, according to the July 16, 1990 edition of Jet Magazine. While Houston is probably best known for her stunning vocals, she also made inroads as a hit actress, starting on the small screen with a cameo appearance on the 1980s sitcom “Gimme a Break!” in 1984, then moving to the silver screen with a starring role in the 1992 hit, “The Bodyguard,” in which Houston also contributed to the multi-platinum soundtrack. From there, Houston starred in “Waiting to Exhale,” “The Preacher’s Wife” and “Cinderella.” Production just wrapped on a remake of the 1976 movie “Sparkle” due in theaters this August.
mired singers ever, who was loved by everybody.” Houston recorded the song “Hold Me” with Sound of Philadelphia artist Teddy Pendergrass in 1984, the year before she was skyrocketed to stardom with the release of her first album. Memphians in the music industry are feeling the loss as well. Earle Augustus, programming director for WRBO 103.5-FM, fondly recounted playing Houston’s debut music in 1985 at WASL 100-FM in Dyersburg, Tenn. Augustus told The New Tri-State Defender that he was on the air when the news of her death broke. “I was stunned,” he said. “After I confirmed it, I made the announcement and went instantly into tribute mode.” Augustus added that he has always been a fan of the “wellrounded singer” who he described as “perfect.” Bell also shared the first time he’d played a Whitney record. “It was 1985 and I was at UT Martin.” He joked about how he at first didn’t think it would be a hit, but after he played it the phone lines in the college’s studio lit up. Grammy Award-winning jazz saxophonist Kirk Whalum toured with Houston from 1989 to 1996, and played the saxophone solo in her monster hit, “I’ll Always Love You.” He remembers her being kind and giving, with a dynamic personality. Houston, said Whalum, was a “homegirl who loved the Lord and loved people.” “While we didn’t keep in touch, I would pray for her often,” Whalum said. “Fame…exacts a toll that’s hard to quantify.”
On the social site Twitter, Gillydakid summed it up: “She didn’t raise the bar for singers…she WAS THE BAR!”
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
which the primary will be conducted at all precincts on Tuesday, March 6th. As with regular elections, voters will only be able to cast votes at their home precinct on that day. Called Super Tuesday in the rest of the nation because of the many primaries Republicans are holding to pick their presidential nominee, a presidential choice slot will be available. On the local level, the crucial choice voters will be asked to make will be to decide the final candidates from each party to run for Shelby County District Attorney, General Sessions Court Clerk, Property Tax Assessor, and Shelby County Commission District 1, Position 3, known as the Poplar Corridor/Germantown district. And that’s a big part of the
‘Nothing But Love’
The passing of the legendary pop diva has created a global outpouring of emotions and condolences by celebrities and fans. “Whitney Houston was an unbelievable talent and one of the greatest voices of all time. Her passing is a tremendous shock and a terrible shame,” said Sound of Philadelphia creators Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff in a joint statement. “She had a rough life and was under so much pressure as an artist, because she meant so much to the music community. She was one of the most ad-
Going home
Los Angeles County Coroner’s spokesperson Ed Winter said in a press conference on Monday that a completed autopsy showed no signs of trauma or foul play. He denied reports that his office told the family that Houston didn’t drown and was likely the victim of a deadly painkiller and alcohol cocktail, as reported by celebrity gossip site TMZ. Winter added that it could be weeks before toxicology tests are completed to establish cause of death and that “a security hold” by the police department prevented him from speaking further on the case. The same day, Houston was transported by actor/producer Tyler Perry’s private jet to Newark for a private funeral to take place Saturday (Feb 18). According to Reutors.com, the invitation-only service will be held at noon at the New Hope Baptist Church, where Houston began singing as a child. CNN reported late Wednesday that the funeral services are expected to be available for television and web streaming and that the death certificate filed Wednesday lists Houston’s burial site as Fairview Cemetery in Westfield, N.J.
(Share your thoughts and comments about the life and legacy of Whitney Houston on the New TSD Facebook page or online at www.tristatedefender.com.) (This story includes NNPA reports special from the Philadelphia Tribune)
NEWS
Tri-State Defender
DEBATE
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
ning had to suffice for the Wiley team.
Every student stands to gain
Christopher Medina, director of Forensics and debate coach at Wiley College, called the upcoming showdown “a significant endeavor of intellectual pursuit.” “There is great value in our students engaging in the deductive process of intellectual struggle,” he told The New Tri-State Defender. “The skills developed in the art of communicating and thoughtful persuasion will follow them long after they leave Wiley College. We are looking to implement elements of debating across the curriculum. Every student stands to gain, no matter what their area of pursuit.” JoAnn Edwards, director of Forensics and debate coach at Ole Miss, welcomed the challenge, under one condition. “I agreed that we would participate in this debate, provided that both teams be prepared to argue the pros and cons on each side of the question,” she said. “Neither team will know their stance until the night of the debate when a coin is tossed. This is an exhibition debate. Together, we can explore through logical thought, what our own convictions are as we approach the election season.” A panel of judges will hear the debate, and the winner will be determined by the end of the contest. The Melvin B. Tolson Trophy is the coveted prize.
‘The Great Debaters’ – the movie
“When I first saw the movie, I was in awe that these students withstood all they faced and came out victorious, despite all the racism they experienced. Back in 2007, I had not yet joined the Wiley College faculty. But it was an inspiring story of determination and resolve. “Professor Tolson was an extraordinary man who was driven to win. In the movie, the defeated team was Harvard University, rather than USC – ‘to demonstrate the heights Wiley College achieved,’ according to the screen writer. “Professor Tolson left us a tremendous legacy of excellence in debating – a legacy we have sought to continue. We are proud of our school and what he did here. And we are all excited about meeting the Ole Miss debate team in the city of Memphis.” Christopher Medina Wiley College Debate Coach
‘It just came to me’
“I was just sitting in my office thinking about what we could do this year to celebrate Black History Month,” said Dr. Gray. “And then it came to me. Debate is a long and celebrated tradition by which students have honed their craft in critical thinking. The problem-solving skills gleaned from argument and debate offer practical abilities, which enhance the education process. “Debating is a valuable and worthwhile pursuit of truth. Just the character-building properties, themselves, are priceless…” – Dr. L. LaSimba Gray (For more information and reservations, call 901-7543979. New Sardis Baptist Church is located at 7739 E. Holmes Road.)
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February 16 - 22, 2012
Coca-Cola and Walmart team with local ‘role models’ to celebrate, cultivate history Former NBA All-Star Penny Hardaway, award-winning anchor Mearl Purvis, DJ Stan Bell and Memphis City Councilman Harold Collins are among those joining CocaCola and Walmart in a new African American History Month program in Memphis urging African Americans to “pay it forward” to the next generation. The goal is to celebrate African American History being made today, and to cultivate history yet to come. The
program includes a national public service challenge and online contest offering young people apprenticeship experiences with leading Memphis role models . “‘Coca-Cola Pay it Forward’” charges each of us with the responsibility to advance the next generation,” said Kimberly Paige, assistant vice president, African-American Marketing Group, CocaCola North America. “By drinking and supporting CocaCola, our consumers make it
possible for us to pay it forward with this one-of-a-kind opportunity.” Paige encourages moms and dads to participate in the mission by nominating their teens for the apprenticeship experiences. “We also invite the rest of the country to pay it forward to young people in their homes and communities – helping them achieve their education and career goals this Black History Month and beyond,” said Paige. Throughout February, par-
ents and youth can find information at their local Walmart or go to cokewalmartpayitforward.com for a chance to win an apprenticeship experience. The “mom approved” apprenticeships will focus on music/entertainment, sports, business and community/philanthropy. Winners will spend a day being mentored by and shadowing their celebrity history makers and teams. Consumers are also invited to nominate themselves. The contest runs through February 29
at 11 p.m. (CST). “As we continue to deliver on our mission to help people ‘save money so they can live better,’ it is critical that we continue to invest in our communities and inspire the next generation of leaders that will become the future of many organizations,” said Jacob Frias, regional vice president, Walmart Stores, Inc.
(More information is available at mycokerewards.com/payitforward.)
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OPINION
Tri-State Defender
February 16 - 22, 2012
John H. Sengstacke Publisher (1951 - 1997)
The Mid-Southʼs Best Alternative Newspaper
A Real Times Newspaper
• Bernal E. Smith II President / Publisher • Dr. Karanja A. Ajanaku Executive Editor
Is gambling an OK tool for making economic development ‘luck’
Whitney Houston: What can be learned from her tragic death?
The list of African-American Super Stars who make stupid decisions seems to be endless. The use and abuse of illicit drugs have ended the lives of Billy Holiday, David Ruffin, Michael Jackson and now that specter has come into the picture with our “beloved” Whitney Houston. One might say, “European American performers do the same thing.” Yes, I know about Elvis Presley and Marilyn Monroe, but they have not been sources of inspiration for African-American youth. Even though European performers abuse drugs, that is no excuse for us to use and abuse drugs. The net results are the same. It saddens us to see these gifted masters of musical genius fail in their personal lives when we have been pointing to them as symbols of achievement. Our hearts break in their tragic demise and we start looking for other role models with a great degree of disappointment. We often think, “They had all the fame and fortune, gold and glory.” They lived the American Dream often without waking up to their African heritage and responsibility. European thinking is based on the individual while Afrocentric thinking is based on the village (community). Too many of our “super stars” live the selfish pursuits of material accumulation and high styling profiles to demonstrate they made it with few returns to the village. Then, tragically, they die with a needle in their veins on the dark side of bad decisions and the perpetual American nightmare of selfishness. How can we end this roller coaster ride that eventually dumps all riders without regards for their lives and future? Start “Table Seminars” in our homes and teach our children three lessons: LESSON ONE: Destiny is determined by choice and not chance. Tell them of the great achievements Africans have made to the world and the achievements of African-Americans in this country in spite of racism, class-ism, segregation and discrimination. Good decisions can change bad situations and overcome tremendous odds. Bad decisions can negate good talent and deplete gifts. Whitney Houston was raised in the Church but bad decisions allowed her to be ruined by the culture. LESSON TWO: Life is not measured by the abundance of things and stuff one accumulates for self, but by the service one renders to others. True, long-lasting happiness and joy will
never be found in material things but rather in the altruistic efforts to help the last, least and lost of the village. Dr. Martin L. King Jr. is our prime example of this principle and the legacy of Sojourner Truth, Rev. Dr. L. LaSimba Gray Mary McLeod Bethune, Frederick Douglas and Dr. George Washington Carver is punctuated by altruism (serving others without regards for self). LESSON THREE: The “Drug Culture” has a patented tragic end that is fail proof. It produces failure, frustration and destruction every time with no exceptions. The “Drug Culture” has claimed victory over medical doctors, politicians, ministers, lawyers, nurses, scholars, journalists and scientists as well as the entertainers. Caution our youth that slavery during the 18th and 19th centuries was involuntary and it makes no sense to be a voluntary slave in the 21st Century. Even when we try to remember the wonderful achievements of Whitney Houston, the pain and grief of her untimely demise overtakes us and we end up asking, “Why?” No one can forget her rendition of the Star Spangle Banner for the opening Superbowl XXV. Millions were moved to tears and the emotions of patriotism were elevated to an alltime high. No artist has been able to match that performance and many have concluded it is useless to try. We remember her on stage, elegantly dressed to receive her first Grammy and the many musical awards thereafter. We marvel at her record sell of 170 million albums and the unforgettable hit, “I’ll Always Love You.” It is unfortunate that she never seems to have loved herself. If Black History does nothing else for African Americans, it most certainly should teach us to love ourselves to the point that we stop killing ourselves and embrace the God-given missions for the village. Black History for America is “Me Too.” Black History for African Americans is “Yes We Can because We Have.” (The Rev. Dr. L. LaSimba Gray is pastor of New Sardis Baptist Church and president of the Memphis satellite of Operation Push.)
WEB POSTS
From our online readers at www.tristatedefender.com
Texting while driving a deadly specter for friends of Clifton B. Gibbs Edition: Feb. 9-15, 2012 (Former TSD iTeen Reporter Brittany Jackson, who earlier wrote about the danger of texting and driving, takes a vow never to text and drive and urges others to follow suit after the death of a longtime friend.) POST: This saddens me. Many of us drive distracted on a daily basis; distractions being more than just text messaging. It isn’t until the life of a loved one is taken that we will stop to think of the consequences these actions have. I hope this story captures the attention of many, particularly the younger generations. Wait to text guys. Wait to text, call, grab something from your person, whatever your distraction may be. It isn’t
worth it! POST: Brittany, great article. I am guilty of Texting while driving. Your article has convicted me, I will stop it! I’m sure this article will save a life somewhere down the road. Great job! No money at Mo Money? Edition: Feb. 9-15, 2012 (Acknowledging complaints, the operators of Mo Money Taxes say the problems are exaggerated and that the facts will bear out that “we are not the cause of it.”)
POST: Hopefully this problem gets solveD as soon as possible because I’m still waiting on my refund and hoping I get it soon. I’m trying to be very patient but it’s just only one thing that makes me real upset….I left my phone number (with) my tax preparer and I haven’t received a call to let me know something. I really worked hard for my money (and) for this to happen is ridiculous
FACEBOOK FAN OF THE WEEK Heron Edwards
Heron Edwards he is a 1962 graduate of Booker T. Washington High School and a 1977 graduate of Memphis State University. He says that he has only two pursuits: LOVE and KNOWLEDGE. His favorite quote is “Believe in nothing, investigate everything. Those that believe will forever be slaves to those that know.” Heron “Skip” Edwards Jr. Thanks Heron for being a long time reader and supporter of the Tri-State Defender!
Beloved Whitney Houston
The entire world community will continue to be positively impacted by the unprecedented, creative and spirit-edifying eloquent contributions from the gifted-voice and artistic genius of Dr. Benjamin Whitney HousChavis ton. While we affectionately mourn her passing with the greatest of sorrow and condolence, we should take this moment forthrightly to affirm the living legacy of Whitney and not be tempted by those who only want to only focus on something negative. As a truly iconic singer, actress, model, philanthropist and committed servant for the empowerment of those who know what the struggles of life are all about, Whitney Houston touched the vortex of the soul with a voice that was blessed by God to uplift and inspire the masses of millions of people throughout the world. It is unfortunate that we live in a society that routinely under values the cultural and expressive significance of people who have given so much of themselves through their respective art forms to help others grapple with the vicissitudes of life. Arising up out of the historic African-American church tradition in Newark, New Jersey, Whitney was destined for greatness in the world of music as she labored and shared her talent across America and to the global community. New Hope Baptist Church in Newark was the place where she began her faith-journey and a career of outstanding success. Her mother, Cissy Houston, is the renowned gospel singer, choir director and spiritual leader. Her cousin is the renowned Dionne Warwick and her godmother is the renowned Aretha Franklin. Our prayers will continue to go out to the entire Houston family and especially to Whitney’s young eighteen year-old daughter, Bobbi Kristina. Whitney Houston in her short 48 years became a living legend in both R&B and popular music. But she was more than star in the music and entertainment industry. Like so many others in R&B, soul, jazz, the blues and gospel, Whitney Houston also gave of herself repeatedly to help people become empowered. She gave to numerous charities in Newark and across the nation. In fact, Nelson Mandela and the Man-
Whitney Houston (Courtesy photo)
dela family considered Whitney as a member of their extended family because of her longstanding support of empowerment in South Africa and in other nations. In spite of the tragedy of her death, Houston’s star still shines and will always shine in the hearts and spirits of people everywhere who have a passion for freedom, justice, love and equality. One of my proudest moments was at the NAACP Image Awards in 1994 when Whitney Houston was awarded one of the NAACP’s highest honors for her trailblazing achievements and accomplishments. Literally a whole generation of younger artists today is still being inspired by tremendous voice of Whitney that transcended more than five octaves with the highest quality of tonality and vocal power. Jennifer Hudson sang a soaring tribute to Whitney at the Grammy Awards and LL Cool J rendered a heartfelt prayer at the beginning of the Grammy Awards ceremonies. Jennifer Holliday stated, “Whitney always showed that she cared about people. She was a very caring person.” When someone that we care about dies, it always appropriate to remember the good that was done through the life of the departed. We, therefore, recall and remember the good works and great accomplishments of Whitney Houston. Let us work now to also make a positive and a productive contribution to the uplift of all of humanity. For all who have been inspired by Whitney Houston, let’s pledge to keep her family in our prayers and to continue to push forward to make our world a better place. Long live the spirit of beloved Whitney Houston. (NNPA columnist Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr is President of the HipHop Summit Action Network and Education Online Services Corporation and can be reached at www.HSAN.org)
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Tri-State Defender Platform
1. Racial prejudice worldwide must be destroyed. 2. Racially unrestricted membership in all jobs, public and private. 3. Equal employment opportunities on all jobs, public and private. 4. True representation in all U.S. police forces. 5. Complete cessation of all school segregation. 6. Federal intervention to protect civil rights in all instances where civil rights compliance at the state level breaks down
DISTRIBUTION: Tri-State Defender is available at newsstands, street sales, store vendors, mail subscription and honor boxes throughout the Greater Memphis area. No person may, without prior written permission of the Tri-State Defender, reprint any part of or duplicate by electronic device any portion without written permission. Copyright 2012 by Tri-State Defender Publishing, Inc. Permission to Publisher, Tri-State Defender, 203 Beale Street, Suite 200, Memphis, TN. 38103. Back copies can be obtained by calling the Tri-State Defender at (901) 523-1818, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays.
Gambling is legally restricted in the United States, but its availability and participation is increasing. Under federal law, gambling is legal and each state is free to regulate or prohibit it. Almost William every state allows Reed some form of gambling. African Americans have little impact in gaming, except as employees. As African Americans lag, the gambling industry continues to prosper. In 2011, gambling activities generated estimated revenues of $92.27 billion as follows: card rooms – $1.18 billion; commercial casinos – $34.41 billion; charitable games and bingo – $2.22 billion; Indian casinos – $26.02 billion; legal bookmaking – $168.8 million; lotteries – $24.78 billion; pari-mutuel wagering – $3.50 billion. Commercial casinos provided 354,000 jobs, and state and local tax revenues of $5.2 billion. Nevada is the only state where casino-style gambling is legal statewide. Both state and local governments impose licensing and zoning restrictions. All other states that allow casino-style gambling restrict it to small geographic areas (e.g., Atlantic City, N.J. or Tunica, Miss.,) or to Native American reservations. As sovereign nations, Native American tribes have used legal protection to open casinos. There are 19 states (and two U.S. Territories) that allow commercial casinos in some form. The economic impact of legalized gambling is tangible and quantifiable. They include construction of casinos that lead to many jobs for construction employees, employees to staff the casino, and the suppliers for ongoing casino operations, and multiplier effects that ripple throughout the overall economy. The reality is, nearly one in four American men and 1 in 8 women gambled on the recent Super Bowl in some way. Furthermore two-thirds of all Americans have gambled, and some 80 percent of us approve of legal gambling as a means of collecting taxes. Entrepreneurship in gambling and gaming has traditionally been eschewed by African Americans. More often than not, the image of an attractive man or woman holding a drink in one hand and dice or cards in the other is an African-American taboo. But, it was labeled “race progress” in 1955 when the integrated Moulin Rouge Hotel-Casino Resort opened in the Westside of Las Vegas. The resort had partial ownership by boxer Joe Lewis and was built to accommodate African Americans banned from Strip resorts. The integrated hotel-casino site afforded African Americans work and more well-paying jobs such as managing and dealing. Not until Don Barden became the owner of the Majestic Star and Fitzgeralds Casino did an African American have an ownership presence on Las Vegas’ legendary Strip. In 2003, Black Enterprise Magazine rated Barden one of the nation’s top African-American businessmen and one of the top African-American employers in the nation – with more than 4,050 employees. Over four decades, the late entrepreneur became a self-made multimillionaire in real estate, the cable TV industry, and in later years, a dominant force in casino gambling. Barden’s influence in gambling came against the odds. After success in politics, real estate and cable, Barden joined forces with powerful Blacks attuned to gambling. In 1998, he and Michael Jackson submitted a proposal for an amusement park along the downtown Detroit Riverfront called The Thriller Theme Park. That project was rejected. In 2006, Barden tried again for a license to build a new casino, this time in Pittsburgh with Smokey Robinson. He got the license, but not the casino. Before he died in 2011, Barden had casino operations across America. But the debate continues about whether or not gambling is an appropriate economic development tool. The argument against it is that although the numbers of jobs associated with new gambling facilities is significant, for some it is not a compelling enough reason for its legalization. Detroit’s casino gambling has led to no noticeable downtown redevelopment. Still, African-American political, civic and church leaders have to admit that gambling can be a powerful economic development tool. Las Vegas is a powerful testament to impressive job growth, a low tax burden that many state and local governments envy and prosperity levels that have spawned significant private and public sector investments. (William Reed heads the Business Exchange Network.)
NATION
Tri-State Defender
Page 5
February 16 - 22, 2012
Mississippi hate crime case set to inch forward NNPA New Service
by Shernay Williams
Samuel L. Jackson (NNPA Photo)
Samuel L. Jackson goes ‘hood’ with Obama stance Actor Samuel L. Jackson says in an interview for the March issue of Ebony magazine that he became a supporter of Barack Obama in 2008 because of his race. According to the interview, the Oscar-nominated screen legend admits that his decision to vote for Obama had nothing to do with his political beliefs. “I voted for Barack because he was black. ‘Cuz that’s why other folks vote for other people – because they look like them,” Jackson was quoted as saying. “That’s American politics, pure and simple,” he added. “(Obama’s) message didn’t mean…to me. In the end, he’s a politician. I just hoped he would do some of what he said he was gonna do,” Jackson continued. “I know politicians say….; they lie. ‘Cuz they want to get elected.” The actor also went on to defend his use of the N-word, explaining it was used at home
NABJ treads lightly on Roland Martin suspension
The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) has reacted cautiously to CNN’s suspension of Roland Martin for tweeting homophobic comments. “This is a teachable moment for all journalists,” said NABJ Roland in a stateMartin ment. “We are reminded that what we communicate in print and broadcast – and now through social media – has considerable power. NABJ does not support any commentary in any medium that is insensitive or offensive.” The NABJ also used the suspension of Martin to push CNN to diversify its network: “Mr. Martin is one of our most committed members. In lieu of his presence on CNN, until this matter is unresolved, we encourage the network to continue to present a diverse offering of voices in its programming,” the statement concluded. Martin has apologized for his comments and insisted that his comments were about soccer, and not intended to offend members of the LBGT community.
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while he was growing up. Said Jackson: ‘When it comes down to it, they wouldn’t have elected a n….., because what’s a n…..? A n….. is scary. Obama ain’t scary at all. N…… don’t have beers at the White House. N…… don’t let some white dude, while you in the middle of a speech, call (him) a liar. A n….. would have stopped the meeting right there and said, “Who the f… said that?”
A white teenager charged with intentionally running over an African-American man with his pickup truck in Jackson, Miss. last summer is fighting to have his trial moved to a predominately non-black county. A hearing to determine where Deryl Dedmond, 19, will be tried is for set for Feb. 16. The gruesome murder of 49-year-old James Craig Anderson, an automobile plant worker, has become stamped in the minds of many. The case received extensive media coverage after a surveillance video capturing the murder was unearthed. The grainy video shows two cars carrying about seven white teenagers drive into a motel parking lot where Anderson was standing. Several jump out and beat up Anderson. As he stumbles around, the driver of a green pickup
truck backs up and then accelerates forward, driving over Anderson, who later dies at a hospital. Police believe Deryl Dedmond was driving that truck. Witnesses say the teens yelled racial epithets, like “white power” as they beat Dedmond, and laughed and bragged after running him over. Prosecutors have labeled the case a hate crime. “These teenagers have a history of harassing white teens, who had black friends or gay teens,” Robert Shuler Smith, the Hinds County district attorney, told reporters. The teens live in a mostlywhite suburban county. They allegedly left an all-night party and drove 16 miles to Jackson looking for an AfricanAmerican person to “mess with.” “This (where Anderson was killed) is the first business that you get to coming off the highway, Smith told CNN, “and so that was the first person that was out here and vulnerable.”
The murder spiked racial tensions in a state with a history already laced with racial violence and discrimination. There were marches denouncing the crime and memorializing Anderson, a man known for his cooking, gardening and “grand-piano” smile. Dedmond’s friends and family argued his innocence on a Facebook page set up by his supporters. The teen’s aunt wrote on that page: “He is not a racist or a murderer…If anything, he is being tried by the media, suffering from reverse racism and placed in jail without bond. I am sick of the race card.” “This does not happen very often, and I am not saying it reflects the overall feelings in the different communities here,” Smith told the New York Times. Still, parts of the area “are very polarized, he said. “It’s still highly segregated in most ways.” In September, Anderson’s family filed a wrongful death suit against all the teens al-
legedly in the car that night. It charges that while a few were directly responsible for killing Anderson, the others were negligent because they didn’t stop them. Dedmond has pleaded not guilty to capital murder. He has called Anderson’s death an accident. If convicted and prosecutors can prove the murder was a hate crime, his sentence could be doubled. Prosecutors have not decided whether to seek the death penalty. One other teen, John Rice, 18, has been charged with simple assault. None of the others, including two teenage girls, have been charged. “This is almost like a culture with these teens,” the Anderson family’s lawyer, Winston Thompson III, told the New York Times. “It’s evidently a little network. To see it manifest in the way it did was shocking.” (Special to the NNPA from the Afro-American Newspaper)
Page 6
HEALTH
February 16 - 22, 2012
Taking charge…
First Lady Michelle Obama participates in a tug of war with Jimmy Fallon in the Diplomatic Reception Room of the White House during a “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon” taping for the second anniversary of the “Letʼs Move!” initiative. (White House photo by Chuck Kennedy)
CHEF TIMOTHY
Childhood obesity and diabetes can be arrested with parental guidance by Chef Timothy Moore Ph.D, N.M.D, C.N. Special to the Tri-State Defender
The days when adolescent boys and girls played hopscotch, jumping jacks and dodge ball are over. Those were the days when boys and girls were much more energetic, spirited and filled with zest. But the adolescent years of children today are just the opposite. They’re inundated with television, video games, the Internet, social media, texting, MP3 players, and any number of other electronic gadgets. What happened to the child who had vim, vigor and the agility of a gazelle? Modern technology is great and even necessary in this fast pace society, but it has reduced our children to a zombie-like state where they are devoid of interpersonal skills and possess far less physical dexterity in order to stay fit and healthy. Many of them are obese and moving expeditiously into an unhealthy adulthood. Children today are living a sedentary lifestyle. There seems to be little time for physical activity in the schools and even at home. Time brings about a change, but it’s a change that could prove detrimental if each of us doesn’t take into account the need to eat healthy and exercise. Obesity is a huge problem for adolescents. One out of three children are obese or overweight, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Sometimes parents can be a little sensitive if they’re asked about their child’s weight problem. If anyone should be blamed for the child’s weight problems, it should be the parents. Why would you allow your child to become a glutton? Exercise some control. Take charge. Do you or your child purchase groceries for the home or do you or your child bring home the pay-
Fad diets may be wrong turn on road to weight loss
HOUSTON – Fad diets come and go with the seasons, but according to a Baylor College of Medicine dietitian, they may do more harm than good. “Any diet that selectively eliminates whole groups of foods creates a nutrient hole that’s hard to fill,” said Roberta Anding, a registered dietitian at BCM. Eliminating carbohydrates, for example, starves the body of essential “nutrient heroes” such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. These foods contain invaluable phytonutrients. Detoxification diets such as colon cleanses and juice fasts are trendy right now, Anding said, but they could have a negative effect on the body because they don’t offer enough protein. Not all nutrition fads are harmful, however. Another healthy way to lose weight is to follow the government’s new MyPlate plan at www.myplate.gov.
check? If you’re putting food on the table, there is no reason for your 10year-old boy or girl to weigh 5 0 Dr. Timothy 2 p o u n d s . Moore It’s not healthy and it’s not If anyone the child’s should be f a u l t . blamed for Here’s a the child’s little tidbit from the weight problems, it CDC: 1 in should be the 3bornchildren parents. Why U.S. in the in would you 2000 will go on to allow your develop child to type II diabecome a betes at glutton? some point Exercise in their lives, and 1 some 2 control. Take of A f r i c a n charge. American children will develop diabetes. Children as young as seven are diabetic and more are prone to the disease. Obesity has become a leading factor in the new diabetic epidemic. Some lifestyle changes must be undertaken to prevent future generations from growing up dependent on some form of medication just to function. If nothing is done about obesity, it could lead to diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels and depression. Change has to start in the home if obesity and diabetes are completely arrested. But if you’re not preparing meals that are healthy, you shouldn’t expect for your children to be healthy. They’ll follow your footsteps, wherever you lead them. Have you ever wondered why there are no health food
stores in the inner city neighborhoods? It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out that children will buy and eat as much junk food as they can consume. But then there’s a reckoning: obesity and diabetes. There is a solution, of course – that is if we set the example for our children by doing some form of physical activity ourselves. Since there is so much red tape and political interference when it comes to physical education in school, you might want to start at home working with your child to keep him or her physically fit. Michelle Obama is leading the charge in physical fitness and steering the nation’s children toward a nutritious diet of fruit and vegetables. Two years ago, the first lady and a group of schoolchildren planted vegetables in the White House garden. She continues to advocate for their good health. We must remember that the children today are our future leaders, and it would be awfully sad to see them become obese, diabetic and dependent on drugs. Is it their destiny to grapple with obesity or diabetes? I don’t think so. But I do know that obesity and diabetes can be avoided. If you set a good example as a parent by eating healthy and exercise, you’ll be surprised when your child follows your footsteps. You’ll also be surprised if they follow you down the wrong path. So eat healthy, exercise and teach your child to do the same. (Dr. Timothy Moore teaches nutrition, heart disease and diabetes reversal through a plant-based lifestyle. He is a professional speaker, wellness coach and personal plantbased chef. He can be reached by email at cheftimothy@cheftimothymoore.co m or visit him on the Web sites at www.cheftimothymoore .com or www.twitter.com/ cheftimmoore.)
Tri-State Defender
BUSINESS
Tri-State Defender
Page 7
February 16 - 22, 2012
ON OUR WAY TO WEALTHY
The smell of success Mini manufacturing: Scented candles While studying to become a physician assistant, Zamyra Lambert launched Arymaz Aromas. She does justice to the phrase “age is nothing but a number.” Zamyra, 22, has started a scented candle business that rivals those that have been in the business for decades. Not only does she have a full grasp of where she would like her business to go, she also has an understanding of the direction of her personal development. In addition to her candle business, she is a graduate student studying to become a physician assistant with a concentration in obstetrics or surgery. Carlee McCullough: How and when did you begin your career in the candle making industry? Zamyra Lambert: My love for making candles began at the age of 8. I learned how to make candles with a family friend to pass the time away. I found solace in making them. The aroma was so soothing and would actually help me relax. So one day I took the candles to school and sold them all to my friends for Mother’s Day. CM: Did you create a business plan before starting out? ZL: Initially, I had enough supplies to just make them at home. I begin to make a few, sell them and use the money to buy more supplies. Later I was sponsored by TVA/MLGW to attend the Black Enterprise Entrepreneurship confer-
ence in Nashville. It was there that I was exposed to the process of making a business plan through their Kidpreneur Program. In 2005, I was encouraged to enter the Memphis Carlee McCullough NAACP ACTSo Program for business. There Ms. MP Carter, her daughter Kim and Mr. Tyrone Burroughs helped me develop my first real business plan to enter into the national competition. I won first place Zamyra at the local level, Lambert and went to the N a t i o n a l NAACP Convention in Milwaukee and won 2nd place for my Candle Business Plan. I was the youngest delegate representing Memphis. CM: What has been your greatest challenge? ZL: My greatest challenge was meeting demand while being in school. Since I was manufacturing each candle, it was time manage-
ment that aided me in meeting demand. I would make anywhere from 300 to 500 candles during holiday schedules, or summer months. Then my mother would take me around to local hair salons, church bookstores and just word of mouth until I established a clientele base. Later I negotiated wholesale deals with specific boutique shops to move the inventory.
CM: What is the greatest reward in being an entrepreneur? ZL: Working for me and generating income for myself at a young age. CM: Of the candles that you create, which is your favorite product? ZL: Pretty Girls in Pearls, Baby Powder, and Spice are my favorite.
CM: What types of marketing do you employ? ZL: Candles are hard to market because they are scent driven. People need to smell them to make a sale. I have tried websites and all social media but I would say word of mouth and visual media, such as TV interviews have been the best for me.
CM: What are some daily habits that made you successful? ZL: Prayer, staying humble, giving back to the community and teaching other young people about entrepreneurship and education.
CM: What books or resources would you recommend for individuals starting out? ZL: Black Enterprise, autobiographies of other great business people, studying your competitors, and the local Chamber of Commerce are great resources. I have met so many great business owners that have become my fence and my foundation. It is a blessing to have so many great influences in my life starting with my parents.
CM: Any advice for aspiring candle makers? LZ: My advice to aspiring candle makers is to find great products and give your customer the best you can for your investment. CM: What’s the next step for you as a candle manufacturer? ZL: To revisit and revise my business plan, meet with select business investors, look toward areas of support to expand my production line and provide opportunities for expansion. CM: Any closing remarks? ZL: I would like to personally thank the Memphis community for its support and (invite people) to visit facebook.com/arymazaromas and purchase.
(Contact Carlee McCullough, Esq., at 5308 Cottonwood Road, Suite 1A, Memphis, TN 38118, or email her at jstce4all@aol.com.)
Mr. Secretary…
Former U.S. Secretary of Labor Rodney Slater (right) found this trio of Memphians ready to exchange thoughts after he spoke last week (Feb. 9) at the University of Memphis on a program sponsored by the Benjamin L. Hooks Institute for Social Change. Slaterʼs visit included meeting with students, emerging leaders, young professionals and others to discuss combining civic and public service opportunities with career goals. (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)
MONEY MATTERS
Invest for growth, value or both
More than half of Americans have direct investments in the stock market, and it’s probably safe to say that they would like their investments to grow. Most investors would also like to believe their investments have value. So what does it mean to invest in a growth mutual fund or a value mutual fund? The labels “growth” and “value” reflect different investment approaches that mutual fund managers use when making portfolio decisions.
Two strategies for pursuing results
Growth stocks are companies that appear poised to grow. These companies generally do not pay dividends because they are more likely to reinvest profits. A growth company may be on the verge of a market breakthrough or acquisition, or may occupy a strong position in a growing industry. Generally, smaller companies have more potential to
grow, but a larger company may also be a growth stock. As you might expect, growth stocks carry substantial risk. Value investing tries to identify companies that are underCharles valued by the Sims Jr. market. Their stock prices may be lower in relation to their earnings, assets, or prospects. Established companies may be more likely to be considered value stocks than newer companies, and value stocks may pay dividends. When purchasing a value stock, the fund manager expects that the broader market may eventually recognize the value of the company, potentially causing the share price to rise. One of the risks is that a stock that is undervalued as a result of problems with the company or the industry may not be able to
recover from the setback. Many mutual funds that focus principally on value or growth stocks commonly have the word “value” or “growth” in the names. Blend mutual funds may include both types of stocks. The return and principal value of stocks and mutual funds fluctuate with changes in market conditions. Shares, when sold, may be worth more or less than their original cost.
Historical performance
From 1981 to 2010, the average annual return for large-cap value stocks was about 2.1 percent higher than the average annual return for large-cap growth stocks. Yet growth stocks outperformed value stocks in 13 years of this 30-year period. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. This suggests that holding both growth and value funds in your portfolio may help you take advantage of a variety of market conditions.
We can help you determine whether growth or value investments – or both – may be appropriate for your portfolio. Mutual funds are sold by prospectus. Please consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses carefully before investing. The prospectus, which contains this and other information about the investment company, can be obtained from your financial professional. Be sure to read the prospectus carefully before deciding whether to invest. (Charles Sims Jr., CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, is President/ CEO of The Sims Financial Group. Contact him at 901-6822410 or visit www.SimsFinancial Group.com. The information in this article is not intended to be tax or legal advice, and it may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. You are encouraged to seek tax or legal advice from an independent professional advisor.)
Stand out at career fairs!
Increasingly, employers use career fairs to see many applicants during a short time frame. Job seekers go to career fairs to improve their chances of landing a position because they can Michael S. potentially apply Washington for multiple positions, and meet interviewers who can either make a hiring decision or refer them for further consideration. Employers usually evaluate applicants based on their resume alone, or in combination with a telephone-screening interview. Career fairs are different in one significant way – employers see applicants first. This difference means making the right first impression is never more important. Therefore, your appearance, body language, energy level, enthusiasm and preparation become much more critical to making a great first and lasting impression. Dress appropriately for the type of position you are seeking. Conservative attire is usually best. For women, a business suit with a skirt or pants in a neutral color, with a simple blouse (no ruffles or plunging neck line) is a good start. Keep in mind that neutral does not necessarily mean tan, navy, or grey. Other colors such as chocolate, eggplant or cream can work, especially if these colors are already in your wardrobe. If you do not have a suit, a nice blouse with sleeves and skirt should do the trick, particularly for entrylevel positions. This is not the time for mini-skirts, five-inch heels, dangling earrings and a lot of jewelry. For administrative or managerial positions, add a jacket, even if it is not the exact color of your skirt, as long as it is a complementary color. Your hairstyle should be simple and professional. If you wear makeup, keep it to a minimum (no white or neon colored lips, heavy eyeliner, mascara or overly lush/long false eyelashes). Skip the lip liner, too. If you wear perfume, apply half as much as you normally would. You don’t want your fragrance to linger long after you’ve moved on to the next booth! For men, depending upon the level of position you seek, wear a dress shirt with a tie (a bold color is great, but no overly busy pattern), dress slacks in a dark color, with dark socks and dress shoes. Lace ups are best, but slip-ons are acceptable if this is what you already have. Even if you are applying for a position in an industrial or outdoors setting, a nice pair of khakis with a dress or polo shirt will make you stand out over the competition. Just make sure your shirt has a collar. Remember, you’re trying to make a great first impression. Men applying for managerial or executive level positions should definitely wear a suit or a blazer and dress slacks. A fresh haircut or trim is definitely in order. And don’t wear too much jewelry – keep it simple, a watch and one ring (wedding band, class ring or signet – nothing ornate). Men should apply cologne sparingly also. For all job seekers, prepare as early as possible before the fair. Ensure you have plenty of resumes (at least twice as many as the number of employers you plan to see), make sure your clothes are pressed and/or dry cleaned and that your shoes are in good repair and shined. Take a simple portfolio or briefcase to carry your resumes, pens and other items. Rest well two nights before the fair; determine which employers you plan to see and know what skills and experiences you bring to their openings. Conduct basic research on each company you’re interested in – their products, services, successes, current organizational challenges, etc. Knowing some information about the company will make employers take you more seriously. Prepare and memorize a 30-second introduction describing your experience and how it will benefit the employer. Visit the career fair location the day before to determine where you will park, or if you need to be dropped off. The morning of the fair, eat a good breakfast, one that will give you energy for a sustained period. Upon arrival, take a deep cleansing breath, smile, walk confidently, and think positively, even if this is your 50th career fair. If you’re not working, think of yourself as in transition rather than unemployed. Remember, you didn’t lose your knowledge, skills, abilities and work ethic when you lost your job. You’ve still got all that. Let it show in your attitude and you’ll interact with employers with greater poise and confidence. Every employer wants to hire someone with a winning attitude. (Michael S. Washington, PHR, is a certified professional in human resources and founder and principal career coach for Onpoint Career Coaching, which offers individualized career coaching. Visit his blog at onpointcareercoaching. wordpress.com.)
RELIGION
Page 8
Tri-State Defender
February 16 - 22, 2012
Rev. Netters finds National Prayer Breakfast visit a moving experience Special to the Tri-State Defender
When this year’s version of the annual National Prayer Breakfast got underway in Washington, D.C. earlier this month, the Rev. Dr. James L. Netters was there lending his presence and basking in the energy. Netters, renowned pastor of Mount Vernon Baptist Church – Westwood, a former Memphis City Council member and a living African-American history icon – was an invited guest and was received by Faith Development, Inc. and its executive director, R. Benard Reaves. The keynote speaker, Eric Metaxas, author of the New York Times bestselling “Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr,
Prophet, Spy” (Thomas Nelson, 2010), delivered a speech designed to inspire, urging attendees to follow the example of the martyred German pastor in boldly living their faith. The high profile room of guests included President Barack and First Lady Michelle Obama. Later that evening (Feb. 2), Netters decided to visit the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial before traveling back home. “His memorial is absolutely breath taking,” said Netters. “The highlight of my trip was spending time at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial on a beautiful clear sunny day on the national Mall of Washington, DC.”
Rev. James L. Netters with a small group of students that engaged him in an impromptu Q&A session during his visit to the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial in Washington, D.C. (Courtesy photo) As he meditated on the memorial, a small group of students suddenly gathered
around him with questions about Dr. King’s history and legacy. One of the young stu-
dents, Kariah Shepherd, had been tasked by her teacher to write a paper on “Make the
Dream Come Alive.” Netters said he was overwhelmed.
LIVING THE LIFE I LOVE
The search for a soul mate is an inward journey
Dear Lucy: I have been married less than a year and I wrongfully thought that I had found and married my soul mate. We dated for only a few months. I felt that he was the one who completes me. Now, I know that this is not true. I lost my job, I am devastated and he is not supportive. He tells me that I should just get over it and go find another one. He doesn’t understand how hurt I am, how unfair he is being and what I am going through. He just isn’t who I thought he was. I don’t know what to do. – FP
Dear FP: Thanks for your letter. I feel your hurt. Our perceptions about soul mates and being completed by another can sometimes cause hurt and confusion. A soul mate is that person or thing that helps us to fulfill our purpose. However, our soul mate cannot be our purpose. We look for soul mates as a natural expression of the need to be the bigger, better self that we are always stretching into. Strangely enough, for some, the soul mate may turn out to be the creative work that they love and do. Perhaps you have met people who find such satisfaction in their creative work
that they never need a human mate. Looking for that soul mate is all about finding fulfillment in ourselves. No one can do that for us. They can support us and take the journey with us, but cannot Lucy fill up empty Shaw spaces inside of us. We learn how to do this when we learn how to first love ourselves. Life is first about the individual experience. You are making this all about you and it is all about you! It is about your understanding how to find your own purpose, how to find your own fulfillment and then how to share it appropriately with another person. Perhaps your husband is rebelling or resentful of the burden that he has agreed to take on...the burden of being your completeness. Healthy relationships are made up of people who have the strength of a clear sense of their own identity. Maybe you also had expectations of your job that it
too should somehow complete you. What is happening to you now is a wonderful call and opportunity to reinvent yourself! Here is a place to start. Can you create a picture of who you want to be? Can you carve out a little corner of your mind where you are that competent, loving, loved person living a life of purpose that includes the man, the work, the hobby, the home, the spirituality, and whatever else you want to experience? Can you take each of these, especially your self and define the qualities that you would have? Make a list of all of the qualities you would like to develop and practice like being loving, cheerful, sincere, attentive, supportive, creative etc. Now, can you picture yourself being these and sharing them with your husband and in the work you would love to do. The point here is that you imagine and develop the you that you want to be...not the person that you want someone else to be. If you want someone who is understanding and supportive, practice becoming that yourself. If you want to be happy, then practice happy. You have the wonderful power to choose and become whatever you want to have in your life.
Also imagine the job where you can express all of these wonderful qualities. If you cannot find a paying position doing what you love, then get up, get out of the house and volunteer somewhere that you can use these great qualities. Using your unique gifts and talents is the greatest act of gratitude we can show to God for having them. Right now you have the opportunity to become the gift you want to receive! Become the gift of love, partnership and service that you would like to receive. Try it. It’s like magic! Here’s to your magic, Lucy
(Check out Lucy Shaw’s website at http://www.heartworks4u.com. You may send your questions to her by U.S. mail to: Heartworks4U, LLC; 4646 Poplar Ave. Ste 201, Memphis, TN 38117 or by e-mail to lucy@heartworks4u.com.) (For help with the feelings that get in the way of prayer and peace of mind, get Lucy’s new book, “BE NOT ANXIOUS.” Order it directly from her at 901-907-0260 or go to her web site www.heartworks4u.com.)
Family Day celebration set for Castalia Baptist Castalia Baptist Church at 1540 Castalia St. will celebrate Annual Family Day with services on Sunday (Feb. 19).
The speaker during services at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. will be the Rev. Dr. Randolph Meade Walker, the host pastor.
The day’s celebration will include the naming of the 2012 Family of the Year. The event chairpersons are “Dr. and
Sister” Cedric Gray and their daughter, Peyton Gray. The Grays were selected Family of the Year for 2011.
PRAISE CONNECT -A WEEKLY DIRECTORY OF MINISTERS & CHURCHES-
Greenwood Christian Methodist Episcopal Church 3311 Kimball Ave. Memphis, TN 38111 (901) 744-7531 (901) 744-7664
Clarence Kelby Heath Wednesday Pastor
Noon - 1 p.m. 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
767 Walker Avenue Memphis, TN 38126
9 a.m. 10:30 a.m.
901-946-4095 fax 948-8311
(901) 948-3441
Bible Study For Youth and Adults Tuesday - 7:00 PM “Spirit, Soul, and Body!” AM 1070 WDIA Sundays, 10:00-10:30 AM
SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES
SUNDAY Sunday School .....................8:30 am Morning Worship Service ....10:00am
FRIDAY Cable Channel 17 ............... 8:00pm
TV Cable Access Broadcast Tuesdays, 7:30 PM, Channel 17 Website:www.saintandrewamec.org
Dr. & Rev. Mrs. Reginald Porter
TEMPLE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST
672 So. Lauderdale 38126 P.O. Box 314 Memphis, Tn 38101 Phone (General) 774-1572 Pastor: 775-0740 Secretary: 775-1909 WEEKLY SERVICES
Sunday Sunday School 9:00 a.m. Morning Worship 10:30 a.m. Night YPWW 5:00 p.m. Night Service 6:00 p.m. Tuesday Night Prayer 6:00 p.m. Bible Study 7:15 p.m. Wednesday Choir Rehearsal 7:00 p.m. Friday Morning Prayer 9:00 a.m. Night Service 7:30 p.m. BROADCASTS 9:30 a.m. Sunday WDIA - 1070 AM
No Telecast Service
ST. ANDREW A.M.E. CHURCH Early Morning..........7:45 AM Church School..........9:45 AM Morning Worship......11:00 AM
Rev. Davena Young Porter Rev. Linda A Paige Rev. Luecretia Matthews
WEDNESDAY Bible Study .........................10:30 am Mid-Day Prayer Meeting .....12 noon Evening Prayer Meeting........7:00pm
Trinity CME Church has set its schedule for weekly Wednesday night Lenten Services. Guest ministers and their congregations will participate in each service beginning at 7 p.m. Located at 1096 Thomas, on Uptown’s northern boundary, Trinity CME Church has a 110 year history of service to the North Memphis Community. “Equipping Saints for Kingdom Living through Discipleship, Stewardship and Evangelism” is its mission. The pastor is the Rev. Roland M. Johnson Jr. The Lenten schedule: Feb. 22 – The Rev. Louis T. Purham and St. James CME Church, Collierville. Feb. 29 – The Rev. Arnold W. Joyner and Zion CME Church. March 7 – Dr. Willa Ross and Collins Chapel CME Church. March 14 – Dr. Edward Parker, Jr. and Berean Missionary Baptist Church. March 21 – Rev. Clearence Kelby Heath and Greenwood CME Church. March 28 – Dr. Noel G. L. Hutchinson and First Baptist Lauderdale Church
867 SOUTH PARKWAY EAST Memphis, TN 38106
Dr. Reginald L. Porter Sr., Pastor
ASSOCIATE MINISTERS
Worship Services
Sunday Sunday School Worship Service
METROPOLITAN BAPTIST CHURCH
Lenten season celebration on tap at Trinity CME
Dr. David Allen Hall Pastor
“The Founder’s Church”
First Pastor: Senior Bishop C.H. Mason
THE BLVD Ea s t 6745 Wol f Ri v e r B oule v a r d @ Ki r by Pa r k wa y ( i n t he Cl a rk Ope r a Me mphi s Ce nte r ) Me mp h i s T N 3 8 1 2 0
Dr. Frank A. Thomas Senior Servant
Child Care Center (901) 948-6441 Monday-Friday 6 AM- 5:30 PM Emergency Food Pantry Rev. Kenneth S. Robinson, Pastor & Clothes Closet Rev. Marilynn S. Robinson, Co-Pastor Wednesday 6 PM-8 PM
“Ministering to Memphis-Spirit, Soul and Body”
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction. — Proverbs 1:7
Tri-State Defender
RELIGION
February 16 - 22, 2012
Staying the course…
Rev. Rodney Bachus (left) and the Rev. J.C. Bachus (right), pastor of St. Mark Baptist Church, were on hand to help Pastor Derrick Davis celebrate the 8th Pastor and Wifeʼs Celebration. The first lady of St. Mark is Glenda Davis. (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)
OBITUARIES
LORINE JOHNSON, 65 – DOD: 2/8/12 Funeral Services Thursday, February 16, 2012 at noon - Olivet Fellowship MBC, 4450 Knight Arnold Rd., Memphis
IDA STONE, 75 – DOD: 2/8/12 Funeral Services Saturday, February 18, 2012 at noon – First Baptist Church Mt Olive, 3011 Mt. Olive, Memphis BERTHA KENNY, 62 – DOD: 2/10/12 Funeral Services Friday, February 17 at 11:00 a.m. – Mt. Carmel COGIC, 3016 Ford Rd., Memphis MARGUERITE ANDREWS, 90 – DOD: 02/12 Funeral Services Saturday, February 18, 2012 at noon - Greenhill MBC in Frankford, KY BERNICE RICE, 80 – DOD: 2/13/12 Funeral Services Sunday, February 19, 2012 at 1:30 p.m. - Brown Baptist MBC, State-
line Rd., Southaven, MS
JERRY HANNAH, 44 – DOD: 2/13/12 Funeral Arrangements Pending
EDDIE SHARP, 65 – DOD: 2/13/12 Funeral Services Saturday, February 18, 2012 at noon – St. Stephens Baptist Church, 4245 W K Singleton Parkway, Memphis CORNELIA HAMMOND, 95 – DOD: 2/15/12 Funeral Services Monday, February 20, 2012 at 11:00 a.m., R S Lewis & Sons Funeral Home, 374 Vance Avenue, Memphis
Information provided by:
R. S. Lewis & Sons Funeral Home 374 Vance Avenue Memphis, TN 38126 901-526-3264
Page 9
COMMUNITY
Page 10
Tri-State Defender
February 16 - 22, 2012
BRIEFS & THINGS Hickory Ridge mall site For new Reinstatement Driver Service Center
The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security will open a new driver service center in the Hickory Ridge Mall on Tuesday (Feb. 21). The Hickory Ridge Reinstatement Driver Service Center will offer reinstatement services only. Once open, the center will be the only location in southwest Tennessee where citizens may reinstate driver licenses that have been suspended or revoked. It will be stationed inside the mall, which is located at 6075 Winchester Road. The center will operate from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. (All state offices, including driver service centers, will be closed February 20 in honor of the President’s Day holiday.) Effective February 21, the additional driver service centers in Shelby County, which includes the centers located on East Shelby Drive, Summer Avenue, and Walnut Grove, and the center in Millington, as well as the centers in Fayette and Tipton Counties will no longer offer reinstatement services. “This is a step that many of our employees across the state have urged us to take as a way of reducing the average wait time,” said Department of Safety and Homeland Security Commissioner Bill Gibbons. “Reinstatement transactions usually take longer. By handling them in designated centers, it will free up other centers to handle standard transactions faster, such as license renewals and the issuance of licenses to new drivers, new residents, and those who need replacements due to licenses being lost or stolen.” The new Hickory Ridge Reinstatement Driver Service Center will also provide photo IDs to registered voters who need state-issued photo identification to vote. That includes issuance of simple photo IDs and conversion of non-photo driver licenses to photo driver licenses without charge. The special service is offered at every driver service center across the state. For more information, visit www.TN.Gov/safety.
Get your applications in for Ambassadors program
The City of Memphis’ Ambassadors Program on Monday began taking applications. Interested parties must be entering the 10th, 11th or 12th grade in the upcoming 2012-2013 school year. Applications can be completed at www.cityofmemphis.org until March 16th. Applicants will be ranked March 22nd, and interviews will occur in April. The Memphis Ambassadors Program operates in nine sites around the city and seeks to provide leadership development, post-secondary preparation, and life-skills training.
Heal the Hood telethon to include awards presentations
The Heal the Hood Foundation of Memphis (HTH) will host the HTH “Game Changer” Advocate & Humanitarian Award during the 4th Annual “Living the Dream Telethon” on April 14 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Hickory Ridge Mall. The Living the Dream telethon was established to focus positive national attention on Memphis and offset the stigma of being the place where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. died. The event will also raise funds to support other non-profit organizations working to change the lives of individuals and families impacted by violent crimes and the subsequent loss of loved ones. The “Game Changer” Advocate and Humanitarian Award expands the telethon’s scope by recognizing individuals who are doing the work of promoting peace, unity, hope, tolerance, love, self-sufficiency and positive activities in the city. Qualified nominees will be accepted from coordinated community enhancement programs, human service projects, church-sponsored programs, youth groups, civic clubs or social networks. Individual nominees who dedicate their time and talent to the community will also be considered. To find out about the award categories and/or nominate a “Game Changer,” contact Roshunda Buchanan, Team Coordinator at 901-489-2386 or email Roshunda.Buchanan@yahoo.com to receive a 2011-12 nomination form.
BRIEFLY: United Housing, Inc. will offer a free homebuyer education class for low-to-moderate income families wanting to purchase a home. The class will be held at 51 N. Cooper Street on Feb. 18 at 9 a.m. BRIEFLY: The College of Allied Health Sciences at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center is hosting an open house for prospective students from 2 to 4 p.m. on Feb. 17. Located on the sixth floor of the 930 Madison Avenue building, the event will provide information to individuals interested in learning more about educational programs for careers in allied health. Registration begins at 1:40 p.m. BRIEFLY: Eastern Star Missionary Baptist Church located at 1334 William Fields Ave. will honor Elmore Nickleberry of the 1968 Memphis sanitation strike as part its Black History Month celebration that begins at 9 a.m. Feb. 19.
Grizz star forward Rudy Gay (left) connects with injured power forward Zach Randolph, who has been cleared to begin non-contact basketball drills. Staxtacular provided a reunion of sorts that included Mike Conley and Marc Gasol (right). (Photos by Warren Roseborough)
Staxtacular: Wine, Dine and Grind Special to the Tri-State Defender
by Kelley Evans
On any given day, people frequent the Stax Museum to capture nostalgia in the form of rich Memphis music history. And on Saturday night (Feb. 11), 600-plus guests piled into the museum for the largest annual fund-raiser of the year – Staxtacular 2012 to – “Wine, Dine and Grind.” The Memphis Grizzlies and the Soulsville Foundation teamed up for a soul shaking celebration and all proceeds benefited the Stax Music Academy. Exceeding last year’s amount, the joint effort aised $120,000 from ticket sales, an online auction, a live auction, a silent auction and donations. The highest bid of the live auction was $4,250 for a ticket package that included floor seats and a hotel stay at the Westin Memphis. The highest bidder ($2,200) for the silent auction received an authentic, Kevin Durant-signed jersey from the Oklahoma City Thunder star. This year’s event was hosted by Memphis Grizzlies Rudy Gay and Mike Conley (five year particiants, who were joined by Marc Gasol and Zach Randolph. One by one the rest of the team players walked into
As the band performed “Billy Jean” by Michael Jackson, some of the Grizz girls checked out the footwork.
Stax Museum greeting guests and taking pictures. “For the fifth year I’ve had the opportunity to see how this particular event benefits the talented students of the Stax Academy,” said Conley. “They always inspire me. It’s also great to see that our fans care about the community so much that they donate to the event and take time out to attend Staxtacular every year.” The night also featured great cuisine, cocktails, complimentary valet parking, live music by the DMP Band and a performance by the Stax Music Acad-
emy. There was also a special musical tribute to Stax legends Wayne Jackson and Andrew Love of The Memphis Horns. Both were in Los Angeles receiving the GRAMMY Lifetime Achievement Award from the Recording Academy. “This marks the fifth time in five years that someone from Memphis has received either a Lifetime Achievement or Trustee award from The Recording Academy,” said Stax Museum spokesperson Tim Sampson. “This speaks volumes about Memphis and its
music. It’s all the more fitting that the Memphis Grizzlies and the Soulsville Foundation are celebrating Staxtacular and supporting a new generation of musicians on the same date The Memphis Horns receive the highest honor the music industry bestows.” Stax Music Academy is a renowned learning center focused on inspiring young people and enhancing their academic, cognitive, performance and leadership skills by using music and mentoring, with a strong focus on the rich legacy and tradition of Stax Records. Founded in 2004, the Grizzlies Foundation is committed to placing volunteer mentors in the lives of at-risk kids in Memphis. The Foundation recruits and refers mentors, provides training and technical assistance to mentoring programs and actively raises awareness and builds partnerships throughout the community. It has donated $28 million to Memphis-area nonprofit organizations since its inception. To learn more about the Memphis Grizzlies Charitable Foundation and how to become part of the Grizzlies TEAM UP youth mentoring initiative, email mentor@grizzlies.com, call 901-205-TEAM or visit grizzliesteamup.org.
Shelby County Mayor Mark H. Luttrell has lined up support for his new Healthy Shelby initiative. (Courtesy photo)
Luttrell moves to make Shelby healthy Special to the Tri-State Defender
by Luctrica A.Lewis Shelby County Mayor Mark H. Luttrell Jr. envisions a strategic and effective approach to address healthcare issues in Shelby County. He sees it linking hospitals, doctors and social service providers to help improve patient care. On Monday (Feb. 13), Luttrell presented the Healthy Shelby initiative, which is designed to construct a path to his vision. He pitched the initiative as a way to improve the health of the citizens in Shelby County and reduce the treatment cost of chronic diseases, such as infant mortality, diabetes, teenage pregnancy and obesity. The Healthy Shelby initiative, which is linked to Memphis Fast Forward, is designed to lower the
cost of healthcare through prevention and streamlining. Memphis Fast Forward is a continuous project of businesses and community agencies that cooperate under the Greater Memphis Area Chamber of Commerce umbrella. Healthy Memphis Common Table, a regional healthcare network with more than 200 health organizations, will lead the new project. Methodist, Baptist and St. Francis hospitals and The Regional Medical Center at Memphis will team with The Church Health Center and other health agencies as part of the initiative. “Tomorrow’s medicine has to focus on more than sick care,” said Gary Shorb, of Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare. “It truly has to focus on bringing up the health status of our community.” “All of our emergency rooms are
overcrowded by people seeking primary care in the wrong space,” said Dr. Reginald Coopwood, CEO of the Med, said, “All of our emergency rooms are overcrowded by people seeking primary care in the wrong space…. So we as community, need to look at how to address that.” Mayor A C Wharton Jr., a project supporter, said, “It will have just a great benefit to the citizens of the City of Memphis.” Healthy Shelby looks to reduce healthcare costs by $250,000 over the next 2 years. Luttrell emphasized the need for a holistic approach. “If you’re going to have education, you’ve got to have good health care,” Luttrell said. “If you’re going to impact public safety, you’ve got to have a healthy community. If you want to grow
our workforce, you have to emphasize health.” Healthy Shelby’s three priorities are: Better management of chronic disease – Such as diabetes and hypertension. Better coordination of care – Focusing on methods of care at the end of life. Better birth outcomes – Reducing infant mortality, deaths that occur in the first year of life. Luttrell and Shelby County Public Health Policy Advisor, Dr. Kenneth Robinson, will coordinate the initiative. Robinson is a former Tennessee commissioner of health and also serves as senior pastor at St. Andrew AME Church in south Memphis. The Healthy Shelby initiative will be funded with county tax dollars and private donations.
ENTERTAINMENT Tri-State Defender, Thursday, February 16 - 22, 2012, Page 11
WHAT’S HAPPENING MYRON? Michael Jackson, Bernie Mac, Etta James, Don Cornelius and now, Whitney Houston!
I was 12 years old when Whitney Houston released her first album. She was just 10 years older. Last Saturday, one of the strangest days of my life, I recalled that memory and our age connecMyron tion. Mays Imagine finding out that one of the biggest entertainers in music has passed away shortly after going on the air. And as word spread that she had died, her ex-husband, Bobby Brown, was preparing to perform right here in our area with his group, New Edition. Talk about having to switch gears really quickly. I have been in radio for quite a number of years now and I love it. However, one of the things I really don’t like is breaking bad news. In the past four years, there have been a number of celebrities whose deaths I’ve had to mention on the air – Michael Jackson, Isaac Hayes, Bernie Mac, Etta James and Don Cornelius – among them. Michael Jackson’s death impacted me on a really, really deep level. However, there’s something about Whitney’s passing that touches me even more than that. It could be that Memphis had a connection to the news of her death – Bobby Brown was here as the story was unfolding and he still came out and gave everyone a good show. As word became widespread that Whitney had passed, the next topic was, “Is Bobby here and will he perform?” While on the air, I spoke with my coworker, Janeen Gordon, who was at the show at the time. I was able to report developments live on the air and inform listeners as to what was going on at the Landry Center in Southaven, Miss. The unsettling news touched many of our souls. As of this writing, Whitney’s death was still being investigated and an autopsy has been performed. There is plenty of speculation surrounding it. However, I will not speculate nor fuel any rumors. I’m going to reflect and celebrate her life. I am thankful for the music she has provided us with over the years. Did you know that Whitney is the most awarded female artist in history? Yes, she is the only artist who has won at least one Emmy, Grammy, Billboard Music Award and American Music Award? To put it all in perspective, she has won 2 Emmys, 6 Grammys, 30 Billboard Awards and 22 American Music Awards. She sold a total of 170 million albums, singles and videos worldwide. Whitney, as we fans affectionately called her, made more history in 1991 when she performed “The Star Spangled Banner” at Super Bowl XXV. The performance itself became a top-selling single, making her the only act to turn the national anthem into a top 20 pop hit. She donated all of her share of the proceeds to the American Red Cross Gulf Crisis Fund. I loved all of her movies, including “The Bodyguard,” “Waiting to Exhale,” and most of all, “The Preacher’s Wife,” which also starred Denzel Washington. These movies made it possible for filmmakers such as Tyler Perry to produce and create the types of movies that he does. At press time, the funeral was set for Saturday in her hometown of Newark, N.J. There are also reports that Bobby Brown is not welcom at the funeral. If that’s the case, I think it’s only the beginning of a lot of drama. We shall see. Meanwhile, I will certainly be praying for her daughter, who will be affected by this the most. I’ve never lost a parent, but losing one at such a young age has got to be a hard thing to bear. It’s actually not easy to lose her as a fan. However, we will always have Whitney’s music and the sweet memories they engender. Catch me next week as I get back to the events! Until then, that’s what’s happening.
(Got an event you’d like for me to cover or attend? Just email me at Myron@whatshappening myron.com.)
“Itʼs a calling. Itʼs really not about me. Itʼs living my life so people are inspired; and along the way I get to hang out with celebrities….” – Loretta McNary (Courtesy photo)
‘The Loretta McNary Show’ goes to the Oscars
For the book, McNary devoted tremendous amounts of time, attention and emoSpecial to the Tri-State Defender tion. “I wanted my communication to be meanShe’s witty, charming, bubbly, with an iningful, insightful and relevant to my readers fectious smile; but who knew she grew up so with whatever they find themselves going shy? through, they can reference this book and “I was so afraid to talk that I cried when gain a more positive outlook for their situapeople spoke to me….I’m still shy, but my tion,” said McNary. sons tell me to say, ‘I’m conservative.’ I’m “If you can lose a son and get through very conservative when it’s not anything that. No other pain is tougher than that: the professional,” said Loretta McNary, star of show, the book, being too tired, financial “The Loretta McNary Show.” worries – nothing compares to that. I tell Once on stage, the “transformation” hapmyself, ‘If I can get through that and surpens. vive, the rest is easy.” “It’s my ministry. It’s seamless and I don’t McNary’s son, Brandon McNary, died of even recognize the transformaa seizure in July of 1999. He tion. I just go with the flow and was 16. I really become my true self,” “The day before he died; he says McNary. called all day to say how much Who knew she’d have her he loved me,” McNary recalled. own talk show? Among other things, he said, Neither McNary nor her fam“Mom, you’re going to be faily dreamed her name would be mous one day, but you’ve got to on bylines, logos and book covkeep speaking and you’ve got to ers. Nor did they envision her on keep writing.” the red carpet at the Beverly She has four remaining sons Hills Hotel interviewing A-list who keep her encouraged and celebrities during the 22nd Aninspired. nual “Night of 100 Stars” – the “They also think of the show hottest Oscars gala of the year. as my ministry. They’re not star That, however, is where she will struck. To them I’m just mom, be on Feb. 26. and they know they come before “It’s a calling. It’s really not the show,” she said. “They’re alabout me. It’s living my life so ways present, helping out, and people are inspired; and along working. We discuss the sacrithe way I get to hang out with fices we’ve had to make for the celebrities, because I don’t take show, and they say it’s their job no for an answer,” says McNary. to be there to support my vision Her interview catalogue inand my dream.” cludes over 200 superstars in McNary’s plate is full. Add to music, TV, sports, medicine, edit her 9-year run as host of “On ucation, fashion and film. “Four Cable Tonite,” which airs of my absolute favorite interWednesdays at 8 p.m. on Comviews, so far, are the one-on-one cast Channel 17; philanthropist, interviews with the talented Mr. motivational speaker, President Denzel Washington in Los Anof Goal-Tending Seminars & geles, and my interviews with Training, business consultant Loretta Devine, Ed Asner and and award winning community Gloria Allred.” activist. Since her show first aired, Breathe! McNary has been credentialed Denzel Washington is one of 200-plus superstars in LoretShe also takes on extra proto cover some of the country’s ta McNaryʼs interview catalogue. (Courtesy photo). jects, such as an annual Brandon major award shows (This will McNary Scholarship fundraisbe her second Oscars gala.) She ing event; a special Mother’s often is the only independent show present nications and broadcasting, McNary’s taking Day show, where contestants write essays without major network. her brand into new venues. describing what they love about their moth“In August 2006, I took a leap of faith. I “Social media is a god-send,” she said. “It er, and founder of PINK EAGLES, a girl’s left corporate America, taking a consider- has opened up doors and given me so many mentoring program she began four years able pay cut to work at Crichton College connections that I would never have had ac- ago. (now Victory University) because of family cess to.” How does she have time to do so much? obligations.” With faith driving her life, September and “I’m driven by the desire to please God Two weeks later, while attending Chapel October 2011 were busy months. She pub- and to inspire others. I’m passionate and I’m service in Crichton’s auditorium, McNary lished a book, “Faith for the Next Step,” unafraid,” said McNary. saw “a vision.” launched a radio talk show bearing the same “It doesn’t mean I don’t have fear; I just “It was so clear. I saw myself on stage name, “Faith for the Next Step Radio” and do what I have to do, regardless and in spite hosting my own television show. Not believ- expanded her television market. of.” ing what I saw, I tried to dismiss it, but it Her book is a collection of 52 inspirawas too real.” tional messages recalling McNary’s life (Follow Loretta McNary on Facebook, Within two months, she took what she saw lessons of pain, loss, lack, self-doubt and Twitter, and LinkedIn at www.Loretta and ran with it. Not wanting to appear vain, self-imposed limitations. McNary.com, Loretta@LorettaMcNary.com, but after much consternation, she decided to “My radio show now has listeners in Lon- and radio listeners can call in on Tuesdays use her name and “The Loretta McNary don,” McNary said. “I was called by a radio from 11 a.m. to noon at 818-668-5411.) Show” was born. show in London. Now I’m being featured on (Dorothy Bracy Alston is a journalist, auBy November she’d researched and the cover of a magazine there.” thor, freelance writer and adjunct English booked guests, and on Dec. 6, 2006, “The It’s all done by faith. professor. Visit Dorothy’s blog at Loretta McNary Show” was taped before a “The most inspiring thing for me is hear- http://www.CisbaAssociates.blogspot.com; live audience, with 125 guests and three TV ing people say how my story inspires them join her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ cameras, in the same auditorium where she and increases their faith on what they are dorothybracyalston, email her at DBAlsaw the vision. called to do.” ston@hotmail.com or call 901-570-3923.)
by Dorothy Bracy Alston
She’s still dreaming, only bigger: “My goal is to become nationally syndicated.” Five years later, the show has grown from her and a few volunteers to 23 crewmembers. It not only airs in Memphis on ION TV on Thursday’s at 5 a,m., it has been on a five-city tour, including Atlanta, New York City, Chicago, Washington D.C., and Philadelphia. In 2011, the Show began airing in Atlanta, and is currently negotiating airtime in Dallas for 2012. “Initially I tried to do everything myself,” said McNary. “I’m now willing to ask for help and to share the work load because the dream is way too big to do it by myself.” With over 15 years experience in commu-
ENTERTAINMENT
Page 12
February 16 - 22, 2012
Kam’s Kapsules:
Weekly Previews That Make Choosing a Film Fun
Special to the Tri-State Defender
by Kam Williams
For movies opening February 17, 2012
BIG BUDGET FILMS
“Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance” (PG-13 for profanity, intense violence and disturbing images) 3-D Marvel Comics sequel finds stuntman-turned-demon hunter Johnny Blaze (Nicolas Cage) emerging from his self-imposed exile to protect a woman (Violante Placido) with a young son (Fergus Riordan) from the devil incarnate (Johnny Whitworth). Cast includes Ciaran Hinds, Idris Elba and Christopher Lambert. “The Secret World of Arrietty” (G) Another animated adaptation of The Borrowers, Mary Norton’s children’s classic about a family of 4” tall wee people who live unnoticed beneath the floorboards of a house. Voice cast features Amy Poehler, Carol Burnett, Bridgit Mendler, Will Arnett and David Henrie.
Idris Elba in Columbia Picturesʼ “Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance.” (Photo By: Jasin Boland/Columbia Pictures)
seal-hunting accident. Support cast includes Adamina Kerr, Sierra Jade Sampson and Teddy Kyle smith.
INDEPENDENT & FOREIGN FILMS
“Circus Columbia” (Unrated) Midlife-crisis drama, set in Bosnia in the early Nineties, shortly before the outbreak of the civil war, about a successful businessman’s (Miki Manojlovic) scandalous return home from Germany accompanied by a flamboyant mistress (Jelena Stupljanin), much to the chagrin of his estranged wife (Mir Furlan) and teenage son (Boris Ler). With Milan Strljic and Almir Mehic. (In English and Croatian with subtitles) “Jess + Moss” (Unrated) Coming-of-age drama about the sexual awakenings experienced by a couple of kissing cousins (Sarah Hagan and Austin Vickers) over the course of a steamy summer in the tobacco fields of Western Kentucky. With Marie Coleman, Don Fleming, Haley Strode and Haley Parker. “Michael” (Unrated) Disturbing drama chronicling the 5-month ordeal of a 10 year-old boy (David Rauchenberger) who is kidnapped and repeatedly raped in a soundproof basement by a pedophile
“Putin’s Kiss” (Unrated) Agitprop expose’ chronicling the gradual disillusionment of Vladimir Putin protégé Masha Drakova, a Russian teenager who finally wised up to the fact that she was being used by the Kremlin after the vicious attack of an opposition journalist by government goons. (In Russian with subtitles)
Angela Bassett in “This Means War.” (Courtesy photo) (Michael Fuith) passing as a pillar of the community. With Christine Kain, Ursula Strauss and Victor Tremmel. (In German with subtitles) “On the Ice” (R for profanity, vi-
olence and drug use) Alaskan crime thriller set in a tight-knit community where a couple of teenagers (Josiah Patkotak and Frank Qutuq Irelan) cover-up the killing of a friend (John Miller) by claiming he died in a
HOROSCOPES
February 16–22, 2012
OPENING THIS WEEK
“This Means War” (PG-13 sexuality, violence and profanity) Spy vs. spy comedy about a couple of CIA Agents (Chris Pine and Tom Hardy) who go from being best friends to sworn enemies after discovering that they’re dating the same woman (Reese Witherspoon). With Chelsea Handler, Angela Bassett and Til Schweiger.
Tri-State Defender
“Thin Ice” (R for profanity, and brief violence and sexuality) Fargo-inspired crime comedy, set in Wisconsin in the dead of winter, about an insurance agent (Greg Kinnear) who finds himself framed by an unstable locksmith (Billy Crudup) in the theft of a retired farmer’s (Alan Arkin) rare violin. Supporting cast includes Bob Balaban, David Harbour and Michelle Arthur.
“Undefeated” (Unrated) Oscarnominated documentary recounting how Memphis’ Manassas High School football coach Bill Courtney turned around his team’s fortunes by employing a tenderhearted, toughlove regimen.
ARIES Passing on knowledge, or gaining some new knowledge, preoccupies your fine mind this week. You can teach as well as learn. Look for a way to combine these two activities. It will benefit the many that you attract. TAURUS Details, details, details. They are cluttering up your vision of the big picture. Be patient and deal with one detail at a time. You’ll soon see your big picture very clearly again. You are kind, and can be amazingly tolerant. GEMINI Lots of wild ideas may occur to you this week, and you may want to act the mental daredevil. Be patient with those who are just learning or who want to do things the way they’ve always done them. Lead by example. CANCER A practical solution is at hand to one of your inventions. Give yourself some space to allow the answer to come to you. Any repetitive task, such as weeding the garden or washing the dishes or car, will be conducive to your receiving the solution. LEO You may feel an internal pressure towards responsibility this week. Go with the flow on this and the week will be like a gift. Let your words assist others in becoming more self-responsible. You are a good teacher of right actions. VIRGO Money may come to you from an unlikely source this week. Keep your eyes peeled for opportunity. Let your words this week paint the images of better ways of being in the world for yourself and for those under your care. LIBRA You may decide to visit a friend you haven’t seen in a while, or you may hear from one while you are at work. How did they get your number? You’ll be pleased to connect again with this person. SCORPIO You are full of ideas this week, and some of them have practical application. Pick and choose which ones to test as you move through your week. Keep a very positive outlook on all relationships. SAGITTARIUS Too much information is as confining as too little information for you. Try to find a balance in your conversations with others. Listen and observe, and you’ll learn the thing that you are looking for this week. CAPRICORN A humanitarian cause may get you out to a meeting with others of likemindedness this week. You’ll meet some interesting people, and also get a new view of how you are perceived by others if you go. Enjoy! AQUARIUS Everybody’s in a full-moon frenzy regarding relationship issues. Listen to what others are saying, and chart your own course through this week. If you are in a relationship, remember what brought you together with this person in the first place, and be glad for what you’ve had. PISCES Your intuition is trying to tell you something. Be still for a bit and let the message come. You know when to exercise caution, and when to let go and revel in pleasure. There’s much pleasure in your life this week. SOURCE: NNPA News Service
BOOK REVIEW
A very personal reminder of a hard-fought struggle
“On January 20, 2009, 1.8 million people crowded onto the cold, hard grounds of the nation’s capitol in Washington, D.C. to witness the swearing in of the first black president of the United States of America… My husband, Ronald, and I had flown 16 hours from our home in Johannesburg, South Africa… “For me, it was the climax of an even longer journey, one that I had begun with thousands of others back in… the Civil Rights Movement. The inauguration was another milestone on the long walk to freedom from unjust laws and their consequences… “On the campaign trail in Selma, Alabama… Barack Obama (said), ‘I’m here because somebody marched for our freedom… I stand on the shoulders of giants.’ “President Obama does indeed stand on the shoulders of giants – thousands of determined men, women and young people who blazed a trail for him, just as [they] stood on the shoulders of giants who… never accepted the denial of their full humanity.” – Excerpted from the Introduction (pgs. 1-5)
Charlayne Hunter-Gault is an accomplished reporter who, over the course of an enviable career, has won a couple of Emmys, a Peabody Award and been named the Journalist of the Year by the National Association of Black Journalists. While many might recognize her as a veteran television news correspondent from her stints at CNN, PBS and NPR or as a writer whose pieces have been published by the New
“To the Mountaintop: My Journey through the Civil Rights Movement” by Charlayne Hunter-Gault Roaring Brook Press Hardcover, $22.99 208 pages, Illustrated Yorker and the New York Times, most folks are probably unaware of her critical contribution to the dismantling of the Jim Crow system of segregation during the Civil Rights Era. In 1961, one of the bloodiest years in the integration movement, she and a classmate, the late Hamilton Holmes, became the first AfricanAmericans admitted to the University of Georgia when the NAACP won a lawsuit filed on their behalf. A few days later, accompanied by their parents and attorney Vernon Jordan, the pair negotiated their way to the school’s registrar’s office through a
Charlayne Hunter-Gault (Courtesy photo) menacing gauntlet of raucous whites shouting racial epithets. Although the two new students had good reason for fear and trepidation about being left alone on a hostile campus in the heart of Klu Klux Klan country, they never let the intimidation get the better of them and went on to graduate from the college. “To the Mountaintop: My Journey through the Civil Rights Movement” is a moving memoir which eloquently recounts their historic achieve-
ment in glowing detail. This fascinating autobiography covers a half-dozen pivotal years in Charlayne’s life, the period from 1959 to 1965. Besides intimately recounting her personal experiences during that difficult period, the author also covers what other activists were simultaneously doing elsewhere around the country in the quest for equality, whether participating in sit-ins, freedom rides or attending the March on
Washington. The book is written in a userfriendly style designed to engage readers 12 and over, and arrives illustrated by a cornucopia of iconic black-and-white photos and newspaper reprints. Kudos to Ms. HunterGault for crafting such a poignant, very personal reminder of just how hard-fought was the struggle, which ultimately led to the triumphant election of our first African-American president.
SPORTS
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February 16 - 22, 2012
CHAMPIONSHIPS & MORE FOR TWO MEMPHIS MIDDLE SCHOOLS
Lester brings championship luster home to Binghampton Special to the Tri-State Defender
by Andre Mitchell
When the championship is on the line, the margin of victory is irrelevant. A point victory is just as sweet as a blowout. Ask the Lester Lions about that. They captured the small division West Tennessee Sectional Championship by the slimmest of margins – 58 to 57 – over Fayette East. Oh yes, Lester becomes the first Memphis Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) boy’s team to earn the TMSAA West Tennessee championship title in the Small Division class. Like last season, the Lions roared loudly and are repeat city champs, however, this season proved to be the breakthrough in more ways than one. Lester’s rooster included: Kobe Freeman, Alex Lomax, Nick Merriweather, Courtney Mclemore, Demarcus Martin, Derrick Carnes, George Bee, Andrew Murphy, Albert Zleh, Robert Washington, Xavion Young and sectional tourney MVP, Reginald Green. As “the team to beat” all season long, composure was a must and the Lester boys got the job done. For most of the championship
game, Lester was on the short end of the score, finally taking the lead with less than a minute to go. Down by as much as 16 points in the second half, the Lions continued to scrap and rallied from a 47-35 deficit with 5:17 left to play. Then, with less than three minutes to go, Lester’s Merriweather and Freeman went to work, hitting a flurry of deep trey balls, pulling the game within reach (49-46). With 25.7 seconds remaining, Green gave Lester its’ first lead and moments later Washington sealed the deal with a put back after a missed free throw. A stunned Fayette East, down by three, would score a twopoint bucket with time running; Lester stood tall as the clock elapsed and the final buzzer sounded. “What more could you ask for? Over the past two seasons, we have won two city championships, a state championship and to top it off, I’m getting knowledge, wisdom and support from one of the greatest players in Memphis basketball history in Penny ‘Coach Carter’ Hardaway,” said Merriweather. “Man, it’s simply amazing what God can do for you! For me, to have the personal success I have had and to see it can be taken away in a SEE LESTER ON PAGE 14
The Lester Middle School Lions earned their sectional championship with a herculean comeback. (Courtesy photos)
Corry Lady Eagles net Small Division crown Special to the Tri-State Defender
by Andre Mitchell
History has taken on another spelling: C-O-R-R-Y. The girl’s basketball team at Corry Middle School made history last week (Feb. 10) in the Tennessee Middle School Athletic Association (TMSAA) record books, winning the small division West Tennessee Sectional Championship. The Lady Eagles pounded Weakley County’s Martin 44 to 27. In addition, the Lady Eagles become the first Memphis Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) team to earn such a distinction since the TMSAA began offering a small division tourney for the west side of Tennessee in 2007.
Since then, several middle schools, including Moore County (2007), Lara Kendall (2008 and 2010), Ridgemont (2009), and Middleton (2011) have gone home as state champs. For the record, the Lady Eagles are: Nicki Ashby, Brianna Boyd, Troniece Davis, Teresa Flowers, Shocoria Hill, Pam Livingston, Pam Owens, Bianca Tate, Darneshia Tate, Diamon Thompson and Stephanie Turner. They were led by tournament MVP, Tesia Thompson. The Martin team was deep and heavily supported, but Corry led from tip-off to the final buzzer and was never really threatened. Thanks to some sharp shooting early by Boyd, Tate and Thompson and solid guard play by Turner, the Lady Eagles were up 23 to 7 at the half and
glided back to south Memphis with another championship plaque to add to their trophy case. For head coach, James Walker, and his Lady Eagle players, the season has been extraordinarily successful in terms of basketball. The same core of young student athletes also excelled to championship heights in volleyball as well. More importantly, they completed a successful season with a host of good memories and valuable life lessons. According to Coach Walker, it has been a total blast watching for him to watch his girls mature, on and off the court. The most challenging thing, he said, was getting everyone to put aside differences to accomplish the SEE CORRY ON PAGE 14
The Lady Eagles of Corry Middle School were dominant in winning the Small Division West Tennessee Sectional Championship.
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CORRY
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13
common goal of winning a championship. “Winning the city championship and earning the ring is most rewarding,” he said, crediting the team’s success to the fact that they placed God first by praying before every practice and game. They also worked on team building that provided opportunities for the young ladies to gain each other’s trust. Walker said he filled the role of a sincere father-figure and treated the girls as if they were his own. Asked what three factors he attributed to his success, Walker said, “My mentors, Issac Peterson, who was my high school coach, and Arthur Fielder (who was his coach in
SPORTS
Tri-State Defender
February 16 - 22, 2012
Junior college). Coach Peterson helped me become a more competitive athlete and Coach Fielder encouraged and gave me an opportunity to show my skills. “My grandmother helped to motivate me because I always wanted her to be proud of me and I refused to let her down,” he said. Walker hopes that his players learn how to be disciplines and he admits that during season he learned to trust some of their decisions on the court. Ultimately, his desire is to have his players become successful throughout life and to give back to others. As for Walker, he wants to continue coaching and trying to make a positive difference in the lives of young people. Great work, Coach Walker and Lady Eagles of Corry Middle School!
LESTER
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13
heartbeat, it helps you to put things in proper perspective. My wife, Inga, my mothers, Nadolyn Smith & Cassie Foster, along with my daughter, Zion, son Nick, my brother, Marty and my pastor, Rev. Larry Peoples, continue to lift me up in strength and prayer,” said Merriweather. “Needless to say, Ia received so much love and encouragement from my Lester family, especially from the boy’s, to the entire school and community. It’s been a pure blessing!” Merriweather associates his team’s success with his strong faith in God, setting solid personal goals and working hard to achieve their
goals through education. “The main thing I try to tell the boy’s is they need to try to be the best they can be in life and not to let the negative things around them influence them to not try or fail,” said Merriweather. “I tell them of the great legacy of good folks that have come from Binghampton. There’s a lot of good tradition here, but we have to work tell the positive stories.” **
Coach “Penny” Hardaway knew some time ago that he wanted to grace the sidelines as a coach, but wasn’t sure when and where it would be. “Naturally, I considered coaching at the University of Memphis, but I felt I wanted to prepare and approach it
from a more basic standpoint. I thought of stepping in at the high school level, and then this situation fell into my lap and it was a nobrainer.” One of the things that got Hardaway’s attention early on was how much he truly enjoyed working with Merriweather and the young Lions. “The most challenging thing for me was to get them to trust in what we were trying to tell them. After a while, they began to see that we were here for them to be the best they could be and that’s all,” he said. “Once they bought into what we were teaching, they began to excel,” said Hardaway, quickly pointing out that the guys have to focus on being more discipline in everything they do, as well as
stay healthy and out of trouble. Keep your faith in God and never give up on yourself or your dreams, are lessons that Hardaway stressed. “This season was so full of distractions and small set backs, but Coach Merriweather and I kept telling the guys to stick with it and don’t give! It paid off big time in the sectional championship game. I figured we had a chance to win it, even though the game looked bleak going into the final period.” Hardaway said the last quarter played out just about as he envisioned it would. “It was closer than I would have liked, but the victory was one of the sweetest I have ever experienced.” And for Anfernee “Penny” Hardaway, that’s saying a lot!
AFRICAN-AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH
Tri-State Defender
February 16 - 22, 2012
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Emmy-nominated TV host Star Jones is front and center as she leads the calling in of the AKAs during an African American History Month program presented by the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Epsilon Epsilon Chapter last Sunday (Feb. 12) at the Michael D. Rose Theatre at the University of Memphis. (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)
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National Civil Rights Museum
Rhodes College
Feb. 20 – Moving Beyond Prejudice: “Prom Night in Mississippi” Documentary viewing and conversation with the director, Paul Saltzman, 7 p.m., Buckman Hall, Blount Auditorium. Feb. 28 – “State of the Black Community” sponsored by Rhodes’ Black Student Association, 6 p.m., Orgill Room, Clough Hall. (Events are co-sponsored by Rhodes’Mike Curb Institute, African American Studies Department, Kinney Program, Black Student Association, Film Studies & Multicultural Affairs. For more information: contact Sabrina Brown, Rhodes’ Office of the Multicultural Affairs, at browns@rhodes.edu or 901-843-3529.)
University of Memphis
Feb. 17 – NAACP Freedom Ball, 7 p.m., University Center Ballroom. Feb. 21 – “The Help,” play and panel discussion, 11:30 a.m.- 1:30 p.m., UC Theatre. Feb. 22 – Igniting Excitement, 2 p.m., Rose Theatre Entertainment Lobby. Feb. 23 – “An Evening with Debbie Allen,” 7 p.m., Rose Theatre. Feb. 24 – SAC Movie Night, The Help, 7 p.m., University Center Theatre Feb. 26 – Black Women Who Write: Playwrights and Publishers Extraordinaire, 4 p.m., University Center Theatre. Feb. 29 – Closing Ceremony, 1 p.m., University Center Bluff Room. (More information, is available online at www.memphis.edu/multiculturalaffairs/events.htm or from the U of M Office of Multicultural Affairs at 901-678-2054.)
University of Tennessee
The Black Student Association (BSA) at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) is hosting its 20th Annual Awards & Recognition Ball at the Holiday Inn, 3700 Central Ave., beginning at 6 p.m. on Feb. 18. The event is a celebration of BSA members’ accomplishments throughout the academic year. Michelle Skinner, PharmD, executive director, NovoNordisk A/S, and a 1995 graduate of the UTHSC College of Pharmacy, will be this year’s speaker. Individual tickets, $45; Table of ten $450. Funds raised support BSA events. For tickets or more information, contact UTHSC Special Events – 901-448-5618 or 1-800-733-0482.
African American Read-In
Southwest’s InfoNet Library will celebrate Black History Month by participating in the 23rd National African American Read-In. Join various students and faculty as they read excerpts from the works of their favorite African-American writers and speakers. The event begins at noon on Feb. 20. Locations/contacts: Bert Bornblum Library (Room 122-Macon Cove Campus), Lisa Coleman or Jane Harris; Gill Center Library, Ron Claxton; Maxine A. Smith Center Library, Marcia Hunter; Parrish Library (Room 101-Union Avenue Campus), MaLinda F. Wade; Whitehaven Center Library (Breakroom), Verneta Boone. The event is free and open to students, staff, faculty and the general public.
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Through August 20 – “For All the World to See: Visual Culture and the Struggle for Civil Rights” Exhibit; Museum Gallery, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. First Thursday Film Series: February-August, Museum Auditorium, 6 p.m. To complement the, “For All the World to See Exhibit”, the museum will host films that reflect the various themes of the exhibit. February 22, 29 – Children’s Story Hour, Peach Room, 10 a.m., designed for children 8 and under to have an opportunity to learn about history and provide cultural enrichment during African-American History Month. Does not include museum tour. February 18 – Exhibit Reception and Presentation, Auditorium/Gallery, 5:30 p.m. “For All the World to See” exhibit opening program. Martin Berger, PhD, and author of “Seeing Through Race: A Reinterpretation of Civil Rights Photography. Berger, professor and chair of History of Art and Visual Culture at the University of California at Santa Cruz, is the author of “Man Made: Thomas Eakins and the Construction of Gilded Age Manhood (2000)” and “Sight Unseen: Whiteness in American Visual Culture (2005).” February 22 – Lunch & Learn: “African American Women in the Civil Rights Movement,” Rose Room, 5:30 p.m. This year’s national theme for Black History Month is “Black Women in American History and Culture.” The discussion will look at the role African-American women have played from 1619 to 1968. Free, bring your own lunch; 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m.
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Employment
Ekundayo Bandele, founder and executive/artistic director of Hattiloo Theatre, playwright, actor, and community activist was honored with the Southwest Tennessee Community College Carter Godwin Woodson Award of Merit during the annual award ceremony on February 7 at the Union Avenue Campus Theater. The award was presented by Barbara Roseborough. (Photo courtesy of Southwest)
Economic Development Growth Engine (EDGE) is looking to fill these positions. All positions are located in Memphis, TN Small Business Development Specialist Information Specialist (Communications and Marketing) Economic Development Specialist Please apply for these positions on CareerBuilder (using Adams Keegan as the company name)
‘Art & Beauty of Black History’
Legal notices
For more information, call 901-333-4706/5135.
Twenty-seven Memphis-area residents will be honored and never-before-seen images of renowned photographer Ernest C. Withers will be on display during the Golden Historic Art Exhibit & Gala. The three-day, African American History Month event will run Feb. 23-25 at the Southbrook Mall in Whitehaven. The gala is set for Feb. 25 and will celebrate “Memphis black achievement.” Those set to be honored include Al Bell, Yvonne Acey, Elaine Turner, Milton Bolton, Thomas Burrell, Judge Bernice Donald, Roquita Coleman, Sharon Coleman, George Tillman, Kurl Mckinney, Levi Frasier and many more. The art exhibit will include photographs of Rosa Parks, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, Issac Hayes, Rufus Thomas, President Obama, and the growth of civil rights era of Memphis. Works by Andrew Rome Withers and Larry Walker will be featured. The hours and times are: Feb. 23-24 – 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Feb. 25 – 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the gala from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Exhibit admission is $4 and gala tickets $25. Booth space is available. For more information, call Kendra Calico at 901-643-9905.
Stax Music Academy
As its way to celebrate Black History Month this year, the Stax Music Academy (SMA) is presenting an original, Broadway-style musical production, “Welcome to Soulsville,” on Feb. 28 at the Cannon Center for the Performing Arts. There will be three performances: 10 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 7:30 p.m. All performances are free and open to the public. The daytime performances are geared toward Memphis City Schools students and other young people and advance reservations are required. The evening performance is geared toward the general public. Seating is on a first come first served basis and reservations are required for groups of 50 or more. The musical, written by SMA vocal director/operations director Just Merrick, is based on the history of the community surrounding the Stax Museum of American Soul Music and Stax Music Academy known as Soulsville, USA. It is the story of a group of young people and their journey through Soulsville, USA seeking to find out the real meaning of “soul.” Told through music, dance, drama, and fashion, the production includes new, original music as well as numbers by Isaac Hayes, Aretha Franklin, Sam & Dave, Eddie Floyd, Tina Turner, and many others. Bar-Kays lead singer Larry Dodson will appear as a special guest as will Soulsville Foundation CEO and Grammy-winning musician Kirk Whalum. “Welcome to Soulsville” is sponsored by ArtsMemphis, Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), Wilson Family Foundation, and The Commercial Appeal. For reservations, contact Leona Johnson at Leona.johnson@staxmusicacademy.org.
Genealogy workshops
The Memphis Chapter of the African American Historical and Genealogical Society will meet Feb. 18 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library at 3030 Poplar Ave. “We know that many persons are interested in
expanding their knowledge about their roots. Our AAGHS chapter invites them to join us during Black History month,” said Jack Hampton, AAHGS Memphis Founder. AAHGS President April Branch said, “We offer creative and entertaining research activities and techniques and want to extend our reach across the Greater Memphis area to share in the completion of our mission to assist families with genealogy and historical research.” Hampton said AAGHS Memphis is also excited about its new connection with The Alex Haley Museum in Henning, Tenn. AAGHS Memphis will conduct a genealogy workshops at a meeting at the Alex Haley Museum on Feb. 25 at 10 a.m.
Slave Haven
At the Slave Haven Underground Railroad and Museum (Burkle Estate) at 826 North Second St. African-American History is on display throughout the year, with additional emphasis during African American History Month. Jacob Burkle, a German immigrant, was among those in the anti-slavery movement who risked their lives to help escaping Africans by harboring them in their homes and aiding them on their journey to freedom,” according to the Slave Haven website. Burkle, a stockyard owner, operated an underground Railroad way station on what then was the outskirts of Memphis from around 1855 until the abolition of slavery. Tour hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Here is the remaining African-American History Month schedule: Feb. 18: Black authors book signings – “Black Memphis Landmarks” by Dr. Miriam DeCostaWillis; “The Black Soldier” by Tobbie Ingram; and “The Juneteenth Story” by Larry Batchelor. Feb. 25: Artists Market – Vendors, crafts, visual artist, doll makers For more information, call 527-3427 or 901527-7711, or email heritagetours@bellsouth.net. (Visit http://www.slavehavenundergroundrailroadmuseum.org/slavehaven.html.)
BRIEFLY: The Community of Faith Christian Church will host its Black History celebration “Where Do We Go From Here “ at 3 p.m. Feb. 19 at the church at 751 N. Trezevant. Members young and old will tell the stories of our past. The special guest is Bev Johnson of WDIA. The Rev. Jason C. Pearson Sr. is the senior servant. BRIEFLY: The DeSoto County African American History Symposium Celebration (DCAAHSC) will honor 25 leading African American women trailblazers from DeSoto Count on Feb. 25 at 6:30 p.m. at Whispering Woods Hotel & Conference Center in Olive Branch. The Honorable Bernice Donald, United States 6th Circuit Court Judge, will be the keynote speaker. Tickets are $40 per person and $380 for a reserved table of ten. For more information, contact Michael Smith at 901-481-3968 or email: smithm410@ yahoo.com. BRIEFLY: Former NBA player and University of Memphis standout Elliott Perry will join Darrell Walker, another former NBA player, on Feb. 26 at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. for a presentation titled The Collecting of African American Art VIII: Elliot Perry and Darrell Walker in conversation with Michael D. Harris. Harris is associate professor of art history and African American studies, Emory University. The presentation will be at 2 p.m.
ALL INTERESTED BIDDERS The Board of Education of the Memphis City Schools will accept written bids for Parking Lot Expansion at Richland Elementary; Replace Windows @ Delano Elementary; and HVAC Replacement at Craigmont High. Visit our website for additional information: www.mcsk12.net/departments.asp, Procurement Services link, click on Bids & RFPs. Questions concerning bids/RFP should be addressed to Procurement Services at (901) 416-5376. Thank you for supporting Memphis City Schools. Jacqueline Saunders, Director Memphis City Schools – Procurement Services REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF THE PEABODY OFFICE TOWER PARKING GARAGE 110 PEABODY PLACE MEMPHIS, TN 38103 The Downtown Parking Authority is seeking proposals from professional parking operators to manage 110 Peabody Place Parking Garage in Downtown Memphis, TN. Prospective operators interested in receiving a copy of the RFP to submit a proposal should download a copy of the RFP at www.downtownmemphis.com Proposals will be due on Wednesday, March 12, 2012
PUBLIC NOTICE Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority PET BOARDING FACILITY Open House The Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority (“Authority”) will hold a Pet Boarding Facility Open House and informational meeting to discuss the opportunity to provide Pet Boarding services to the traveling public and others. The Open House will be held: Wednesday, February 29, 2012 9:30 a.m CST 3456 Tchulahoma Road, Memphis, TN 38118 The conference is being held to determine the level of interest in this project and an opportunity to ask and have questions answered. However, the Authority assumes no liability or makes any guarantees of any further discussions concerning a Pet Boarding Facility. The Authority is seeking qualified professionals who have the ability to provide the full range of services required for pet sitting and boarding. The goal is to ensure that firms have as much knowledge as possible about this proposed project. Anyone who has a serious interest in the operation of a Pet Boarding facility should make arrangements to attend this open house. If you are plan to attend this meeting, please send a confirmation email to purchasing@mscaa.com.
Real estate
The Greenwood CME Church has lease space available for schools, day care, or office use. Please contact 901-744-7531 for an appointment.
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February 16 - 22, 2012
Tri-State Defender