VOL. 63, No. 8
www.tsdmemphis.com
February 20 - 26, 2014
75 Cents
‘Let us work!’ Kellogg’s lockout triggers call for national boycott
Dr. Marvin L. Sapp
Gospel star Sapp to promote choice and educational opportunities at Memphis stop On tour with Black Alliance for Educational Options
Memphis is a tour stop on a rolling community dialogue on education opportunities for African-American families. The 2014 School of Choice tour pairs The Black Alliance for Educational Options (BAEO) with Grand Rapids, Mich. pastor and Grammynominated, Dove, Stellar and BET award-winning gospel artist Dr. Marvin L. Sapp. Sapp will be in Memphis for the free event on Thursday (Feb. 20th) at 7 p.m. at Greater Community Temple Church of God in Christ at 5151 Winchester Rd. On tap is a discussion about the status of education for African-American students and the options that are available for parents seeking better educational opportunities for their children. Oh yes, there will be a special concert by Sapp. BAEO and Dr. Sapp toured last year for the first time together in front of more than 12,000 attendees in six states. This year the tour has expanded to 11 states. “We increased the number of cities for the tour because ultimately we want to reach more people with our message to inform, inspire and empower parents to mobilize and learn about the value of parental choice in helping to increase achievement for Black students,” said Kenneth L. Campbell, BAEO’s president and a founding board member. Information about educational options available in the local areas as well as how community members can play a more active role in supporting parental choice and educational options will be available at each tour location, including here in Memphis. BAEO is an advocacy organization whose self-described mission is to “increase access to high-quality educational options for black children by actively supporting transformational education reform initiatives and parental choice policies that empower low-income and working-class black families.” Founded in 2000, BAEO is equally focused on promoting quality to ensure that black students have access to high-performing schools. According to BAEO’s media advisory for the 2014 School of Choice tour stop in Memphis, the group “envisions a future where low-income and working-class black families are empowered to choose a high-quality primary and secondary education for their children that enable them to pursue the college or career path of their choice, become economically independent adults, and engage in the practice of freedom.”
MEMPHIS WEEKEND
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
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H- 5 9o - L - 3 8o Su nny
H- 6 2o - L - 3 8o P a r tl y C l ou dy
H- 5 0o - L - 3 2o Partl y Cl o udy
REGIONAL TEMPS LITTLE ROCK NASHVILLE JACKSON, MS
Friday H-65 L-38 H-57 L-36 H-65 L-36
Saturday H-65 L-38 H-62 L-35 H-70 L-44
Special to the New Tri-State Defender
by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell
Sunday H-59 L-34 H-48 L-28 H-69 L-40
‘…This is not your grandfather’s Kellogg’s. The old administration was compassionate and caring toward its workers and their families. John Bryant cares nothing for those working on the line and making the company all of their profits. We have worked before without a contract in place. We knew that an agreement was coming. That’s because both sides were negotiating in good faith. We were shocked to be locked out. We are not on strike. We did not walk off the line. We simply came to work on October 22nd last year, and we could not get in because the doors were closed and locked. We just want to go back to work. That’s all. We hope this week with the rally that Kellogg’s administrators will come back to the table and talk…” Trence Jackson BCTGM International Union Financial Secretary
Four months ago when Kellogg’s employees refused to approve a permanently lowered rate of pay for new employees, they knew that plant administrators SEE KELLOGGʼS ON PAGE 2
Kelloggʼs President John Bryant “doesnʼt seem to be listening to us….Heʼll soon hear his bottom line dropping, if we all stand together in this effort,” said the Rev. Dwight Montgomery, Memphis Branch SCLC president, who led locked-out workers and supporters in prayer Wednesday night. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)
A show of support…how much did it mean? Special to the New Tri-State Defender
by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell Elected officials and friends of 226 locked-out Kellogg’s employees raised an enthusiastic voice of determination Wednesday night, vowing to walk the picket lines outside the plant until they can return to work. Kevin Bradshaw, president of Bak-
ery Confectionary Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union Local 252G, said he drew inspiration and encouragement from the outpouring of support shown by the “Memphis community.” “Although our numbers were small, tonight’s rally means everything to those of us who are locked out of our jobs,” Bradshaw said. “Some local officials came out and
expressed their support for our union. City Councilman Lee Harris and Shelby County Commissioner Steve Mulroy not only offered encouragement, but they set up a tent to camp out all night with us in a show of unity. It means a lot when it seems that Kellogg’s has not been sensitive SEE SUPPORT ON PAGE 3
POLITICS 2014
The Judge-Joe-Brown effect now showing for local Democrats Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Tony Jones
Last year and in the same week that he walked away from a reported $20 million offer from CBS to continue the wildly successful “Judge Joe Brown” television show, Brown made a very visible public splash. With the directness that long has accented his character, Brown announced that he would host a fundraiser backing the campaign bids of retiring Shelby County Commissioner Henri Brooks for Juvenile Court Clerk and District Judge Tarik Sugarmon for Juvenile Court Judge. Flash forward a year and it’s official. Brooks and Sugarmon now are duly-filed candidates. So is Brown, who filed Tuesday for the Democratic Party nomination for Shelby County District Attorney General. And Shelby County Democratic Party Chairman Bryan Carson says Brown’s celebrity status could be a major tipping point for the party this election cycle. “The District Attorney’s office is this election’s leading ticket and Judge Brown’s ability to draw attention to our candidate slate is demonstrated here,” said Carson, looking around Tuesday afternoon at the crowd that wedged into the Shelby County Election Commission for the official filing of Brown and Brooks. “If the people listen and get involved, I think we could be seeing a day of change for Shelby County. His star power will get people to the polls, but his record speaks for itself. Several decades on the bench cannot be denied.” Both Brown and Brooks are expected to cruise through the May Democratic Primary. No opposition is expected for Brown, who seems to be on a collision course with incumbent D. A. Amy Weirich, a first-term Republican. A former city employee has publicly announced plans to oppose Brooks in the primary, but his campaign has so far been silent. Sugarmon was not at Tuesday’s
“Iʼm running with the hopes of bringing a change to what I call country club justice. We have too much of a justice industry here....”
“I am always telling young people...do what is right for your community, and that is why Iʼm running,” said Judge Joe Brown, as he filed to run for Shelby County District Atty. Gen. in the May Democratic Party Primary. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley)
Ushered into the Election Commission by a support group, 100 Women For Brooks, and her Campaign Chairperson Ruby Wharton, wife of Mayor A C Wharton Jr., Shelby County Commissioner Henri Brooks noted the energy she feels her Juvenile Court Clerk campaign is building.
high-profile filing event. Brooks and Brown carried the moment. After arriving onsite at 3:15, it took Brown more than 30 minutes to wade through the cavalcade of party officials, candidates for other offices, supporters, fans and media to execute his filing. Cars honked, people waved and others snapped photos with their phones as he crossed the street from the parking lot to the Election Commission. “I’m running with the hopes of bringing a change to what I call country club justice. We have too much of a justice industry here, where you have an entire economic sector built up to capitalize on the pains of the labor market. You don’t have jobs for the labor market and the pressures of life force too many into compromising situations where they make bad choices,” said Brown. “Now you know me, I can never be accused as being soft on crime. But I would like to see a comprehensive outlook and administrative expertise of the entire system. Where is the money spent and who it is spent with, and how it is utilized. We have people paying for grown children and the mothers never receive any of the money. And the District Attorney’s office should be looking into these matters,” said Brown. “When the people of this county begin to realize how their resources are being misused, then they will know it is time for a change.” Some have publicly suggested that Brown is on an ego trip. “That’s utter madness,” Brown said when asked about such assertions. “If you want to know the real truth, I never planned any of this, but so many people called me, and I’m not talking about (Democratic) Party people, just regular everyday people calling me talking about the problems we have with justice in this area and the hurt and pain it causes. “My only real intent was to help bring some attention to the fight Henri Brooks and Judge (Sugarmon) will be SEE BROWN ON PAGE 2
Page 2 BROWN
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
facing in trying to make some real change in that mess we call the Juvenile Court, but the problem is just so big and so egregious…” He paused. “The point is this. If you ever saw the ‘Judge Joe Brown Show,’ and if you have ever been in the courtroom where I presided over cases, I am always telling young people that you have to be concerned about and do what is right for your community, and that is why I am running. “I can’t tell them to do one thing and then when I am called on, not do the same. This is not a campaign, this is a crusade.” Ushered into the Election Commission by a support group, 100 Women For Brooks, and her campaign chairperson Ruby Wharton, wife of Mayor A C Wharton Jr., Brooks noted the energy she said the campaign is building. A day after the filing, she talked about the impact of attorney Wharton, calling her a true advocate that she has known since the ’70s. “She has charged the supporters to roll up their sleeves and let’s start working for real, not just for the dress-up events but at home diligently planning to get together and do what needs to be done to make this a successful campaign,” said Brooks. “And she has been a true motivator, telling them how I’ve been on the front lines by myself and how it led to the Justice Department investigating Juvenile Court and that the court is still in denial and still has real problems that need addressing. I’ve been about to burst (with enthusiasm) hearing her speak about how our children need us and it is for them that this campaign must be successful.” With local Democrats having been spanked at the polls in recent elections, Carson made it clear that moves would be made to ensure party unity and proper planning. “We’re going to have a meeting with all the candidates this Thursday (Feb. 20th), which is the filing deadline,” he said.
NEWS
Tri-State Defender
February 20 - 26, 2014
City Council members (l-r) Lee Harris and Myron Lowery and Shelby County Commissioner Steve Mulroy were among those who showed up Wednesday night to support James Rivers (right) and members of Bakery Confectionary Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union Local 252G. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)
KELLOGGʼS
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
wouldn’t agree with the move. But they weren’t expecting to be locked out of the plant where they’ve always “felt like family.” “I’ve been working at Kellogg’s since 2001,” said Vincent Mickens. “We all knew each other, and the plant always acted in good faith during union negotiations. We were stunned when we couldn’t get into the building to begin work.” Mickens grew up in the Castalia community, where the plant is located. He could smell the sweet aroma of cereal com-
ing from the plant and dreamed of working for Kellogg’s. “This lock-out has been a nightmare,” he said. “Every day has brought a different financial challenge, but we have been making it through with God’s grace. We just want to come back to work. The Rev. Dwight Montgomery, president of the Memphis Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), is hoping to make that happen. On Wednesday (Feb. 19th), Montgomery, community activists and local political leaders rallied with the locked-out workers in front of the plant on Airways Boulevard and said more action is underway to support the Bakery Confec-
tionary Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union Local 252G. “We are rallying tonight in front of Kellogg’s to show our support of more than 200 workers who have been locked out of their jobs,” said Rev. Montgomery. “Dr. Isaac Richmond of the Congress of Racial Equality initiated the call to boycott Kellogg products, and certainly, we commend him for his outstanding leadership in this issue. We want to unite our voice with his and extend the call to boycott Kellogg’s beyond Memphis and urge citizens all over the country to stand with us until these workers return to work.” According to quarterly fi-
nancial reports, the corporate giant reported profits last year at more than $16 billion. The last quarter alone it logged profits at more than $2 billion. Employees remain baffled about the initial lockout action and the reason for its continuation. Numerous calls to Kellogg’s president, John Bryant, went unanswered. Attempts to speak with any acting spokesperson for the plant were also unsuccessful. “A lockout was the last thing we expected,” said Kevin Bradshaw, president of the Local 252G. “Imagine our surprise and disappointment when we came to work and found we had all been locked out of the plant. Four months is a long time to go without a paycheck. But we have gotten through it with the assistance of many who drop off donations at our picket site. We appreciate that so much. Kellogg’s could end this thing tomorrow, and we urge them to drop the lockout and open their doors so we can return to work.” The multi-billion-dollar profits have been possible because of the hard work and dedication of Kellogg’s employees, said Rev. Montgomery. “The president of Kellogg’s makes a salary of $6 million, along with additional millions in benefits, bonuses and stock options. The workers have been penalized instead of rewarded for their work. This is wrong. This lockout is wrong, and we know that CEO John Bryant will hear us loud and clear when we mess with his
bottom line. We are asking American citizens everywhere to join this national boycott.” Members of the Memphis Baptist Ministerial Association raised an offering for locked out employees and their families at its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday. Others pastors pledged additional financial assistance from their churches, said Montgomery. “We have written two letters inviting Mr. Bradshaw to meet with us, just come out and talk with the workers himself and see what’s going on, but we never heard back from him. Instead, I received a call back from Global Affairs and Philanthropy. We’re not looking for philanthropy. We want Kellogg’s to end this lockout.” In addition to locking out its employees, the company also rescinded medical benefits, dental, and vision benefits. Vacation pay has also been withheld. “It has been the grace of God that our families have not really needed medical care during these past four months,” said Mickens. “Withholding vacation pay has yoked an extra burden on us. We didn’t pick this fight. We want to return to our jobs. With God’s help, we will very soon.” CORE, SCLC, and pastors of the MBMA are asking that the purchase of all Kellogg’s products be suspended until employees return to work. “Bryant doesn’t seem to be listening to us,” said Montgomery. “He’ll soon hear his bottom line dropping, if we all stand together in this effort.”
Tri-State Defender
“I love Frosted Flakes, and I love ʻTony the Tiger,ʼ but Iʼve replaced them with Post Sugar Crisp and ʻSugar Bear.ʼ”
SUPPORT
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
to our situation.“ Memphis Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) President, the Rev. Dwight Montgomery, opened the rally with prayer and his own expressions of support. City Council members Janis Fullilove and Myron Lowery were also on hand for brief remarks. A Thursday night (Feb. 20th) meeting has been called by SCLC to bring employees and their supporters together for a time of “inspiration and strategy.” “Tonight’s rally was good,” said Montgomery. “But tomorrow night is when we really gear up to reinforce the boycott of Kellogg’s products. We want employees to know that they are not standing alone in this effort. Kellogg’s has
Flowing with ‘Flo’...
NEWS
February 20 - 26, 2014
not heard them so far. Let’s meddle with that bottom line some and see if they can hear a little bit better.” Montgomery said Memphians, Shelby Countians and consumers all over the country should refrain from purchasing any product bearing the Kellogg’s brand. “I love Frosted Flakes, and I love ‘Tony the Tiger,’ but I’ve replaced them with Post Sugar Crisp and ‘Sugar Bear.’ Right is just right, and noone’s family should be going hungry or suffering in any way because of an unjust job lockout. It is unacceptable, and we’re going to fight it together.” The “Solidarity Rally” is slated for Cane Creek Baptist Church, 1785 Elvis Presley Boulevard, at 6:30 p.m. with host pastor, the Rev. Leonard Dawson. For additional information, call Rev. Montgomery at 901-488-4798.
Florence ʻFloʼ Anthony, a syndicated radio personality and author, made a pitstop in Memphis Saturday (Feb. 15th) at Barnes & Noble Booksellers in Wolfchase to promote her new book, “Deadly Stuff Players.” Later that day she joined state Rep. Joe Towns Jr. (left) and Myron Mays at TJ Mulliganʼs Downtown after speaking at Maysʼ Whatʼs Happening Myron Book Club meeting. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)
Page 3
City Council member Janis Fullilove voices her support for the lockedout Kelloggʼs workers. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)
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Clarence Thomas’ self-inflicted amnesia
Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas is at it again. Whenever he opens his mouth about race, he displays a surprising myopia for a 65year-old African American man who was raised in the Deep South during a segregated era. During his confirmation hearing, Thomas excoriated his own family, speaking of his sister as someone (and I paraphrase) waiting around for her welfare check. He was equally contemptuous of other members of his family, even as they were loyal to him and attended some of his hearings. A notable point in his confirmation hearing was a moment when he said he experienced the pain of racism when his grandmother could not use a desegregated bathroom. I’d remind him now, as I did then in a column, that it wasn’t personal, and it wasn’t just his grandmother, it was everybody’s grandmother. That’s the collective and institutional knowledge than Thomas lacks. The old Clarence Thomas resurfaced when he went to Atlantic University in West Palm Beach, Fla. to deliver a speech. According to news reports, he said: “My sadness is that we are probably today more race and differenceconscious than I was in the 1960s when I went to school. To my knowledge, I was the first Black kid in Savannah, Georgia, to go to a White school. Rarely did the issue of race come up. Now, name a day it doesn’t come up. Differences in race, differences in sex, somebody doesn’t look at you right, somebody says something. Everybody is sensitive. If I had been as sensitive as that in the 1960s, I’d still be in Savannah. Every person in this room has endured a slight. Every person. Somebody has said something that has hurt their feelings or did something to them –left them out.” People didn’t talk about race much until the 1950s and early 1960s, and when they did, then, they did them with a whisper. When Emmett Till was killed in 1955, there were few African Americans who took white folks to account for this, except for the large African-American organizations, such as the NAACP. Because of their very public stance on the issue, the organization was described as “subversive,” their members (and the members of other organizations) were labeled “outside agitators”. Before Till, there were thousands of incidents, few making headlines. For African Americans, acts that left African Americans lynched and killed, run off their property, and just plain disappear were not much discussed. It was understood that those harassed are those who “stood up to the White man.” For Whites, this fatal harassment of people of African descent, the outright theft of property, rape of women, and a litany of other oppressions, was nothing more than business as usual. White men could rape black women, beat up or kill black men, and do whatever they wanted without fearing reprisals. Some of
these oppressions are only now being uncovered. Of course, people are talking about race. Furthermore, things like employment discrimination are not simple “slights” that reJulianne sult in hurt feelMalveaux ings. Instead, they are institutional attacks on a community’s economic well being. Differences in the well-documented ways that interest rates are offered for homes and automobiles are not slights but pernicious economic discrimination. Thomas willfully reduces institutional racism to oversensitivity, when one more cognizant of history might acknowledge that both micro and macro inequities impact economic advancement, and quality of life. Thomas is joined by George Zimmerman, who says his massacre of Trayvon Martin has nothing to do with race, and has cast himself as the victim in a tragedy he perpetuated. Thus, Michael Dunn, objecting to loud music, aimed multiple bullets at a vehicle holding four young black men, killing one, Jonathan Davis, who was leaning away from the window of the vehicle, weaponless. Hiding behind the Stand Your Ground law, he says he felt threatened. Others posit (more correctly) that he objected to a young man mouthing off at him when he demanded that they turn down their music. If he felt so “threatened” why did he even bother to approach the car of young men minding their business? What has race got to do with it? In the time when people didn’t talk about race, this question might not be asked. Today, because people perceive “slights,” (like the murder of young black men), the question of race inevitably and appropriately comes up. Thomas dissented in the Hudson case, which awarded an inmate $800 after he claimed cruel and unusual punishment when he was beaten so badly that his dental plate was broken in his mouth. I guess he regarded police brutality as a simple “slight.” People talk about race (and gender) more because they are not muzzled by an institutional racism that made it impossible to have these conversations without consequence, because “race champions” were beaten, firebombed, and killed because they dared seek social and economic justice. Thomas may lack institutional memory but he, frankly, makes a fool of himself when he openly displays his ignorance. (NNPA columnist Julianne Malveaux is a Washington, D.C.based economist and writer. She is President Emerita of Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, N.C.)
FACEBOOK FAN OF THE WEEK Name: Shirley Pratt
Shirley Pratt is this weekʼs TSD Facebook Fan of the Week! A native of Atlanta, Ga., Shirley graduated from Douglass High School. She has worked for the Memphis Police Department as well as the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Shirley believes that through Christ Jesus all things are possible! She lives by this quote: “Yesterdayʼs failures are todayʼs seeds that must be diligently planted to abundantly harvest tomorrowʼs success.” Thanks Shirley for excelling in Memphis and for being a part of the TSD Facebook family!
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
OPINION
Tri-State Defender
February 20 - 26, 2014
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SPECIAL REPORT
ONLINE FEEDBACK Caution: ‘Dems’ changing lines
In the Feb. 13-19th edition of The New Tri-State Defender, Wiley Henry reported on claims that local Democrats are losing elections partly because elected Democrats are supporting Republican candidates. Using our social media outlets, we put this question to readers: Do you think it’s OK for politicians of the Democrat Party to endorse Republicans during elections? Here is a sampling of responses:
“It’s important for an elected official to vote the way the people want him or her to vote. Consistency is what makes a great politician. Ideally, they wouldn’t vote based on what is best for them or what they think is right. They would vote according to what the people who vote them in would want. Usually, when you vote for a Democrat, you are not voting for him or her personally, but what the Democratic Party stands for as a whole.” – @ukyeyecindy
“Honestly, the two party system is outdated. It’s just another tool used to divide us. We live in the age of ‘Moderates.’ If given a simple 10 question survey I bet the average US citizen would fall in the ‘moderate’ category. I’m traditionally a liberal, but respect and agree with many conservative political agendas. But because of the 2 parties, I’m forced to vote a certain way and therefore stereotyped.” – @coah_littlehead_bigbody “#newworldorder It’s turning into a one government society! Political Parties are slowly but surely dying.” – @cornell_graduate
“It really boils down to which side individually they advocate with the issues. Party loyalty has been cited as an issue in the political system because it distances policy makers from doing what’s really important: fighting as the voice of the people. Party loyalty in many cases only protects interests of their constituents and saves face amongst their own kind.” – a@str8_innov8ion
Coverage of gay football player goes into overtime Michael Sam, the All-American defensive end for the University of Missouri, is making more news off the field than on. According to Sports Illustrated, “Sam came out to his Missouri teammates last August. Coaches and classmates also knew he was gay well before today. Multiple sources have told SI that Sam strongly considered making an announcement late last summer and was willing to play his senior season as an openly homosexual athlete. (He decided against it at the last minute.).” Wow! Stop the presses! This is earth-shattering news! Or, so people will tell you. People have lost their minds over this issue. Let a heterosexual go to his job and tell co-workers that he likes women and he will be reprimanded by the human resources department (HR) or even fired. But if you announce that you are homosexual, you get statements from Obama, Michelle, Pelosi, Sharpton, and Jesse. All because Sam MAY be the first known homosexual to be drafted by a professional sports team. Pro-homosexuals have used adjectives like historic and courageous to describe Sam. Of course, he is neither. His homosexuality is his story, but not history; nor is it historic. Historic is defined as an event that is wellknown or important in history. Sam and his announcement will be neither in the annals of history. Courageous is signified by a member of the military who faces bullets from the enemy in a war zone. Courageous is announcing you are homosexual in Saudi Arabia. Or, Nigeria. On Sam’s worst day, his life will never be in jeopardy. The worst case for Sam will be that he doesn’t get drafted by an NFL team and doesn’t get the chance to play professional football. Asking a chicken for some eggs is asking for a contribution; but asking a pig for bacon is a total commitment. Sam is making a contribution to the homosexual movement; but not a commitment. Mother Teresa, Malcolm X, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. all gave bacon for their beliefs – their lives. At most, Sam will not have a football career – eggs. What is he sacrificing as a result of being homosexual or what is he risking? Absolutely nothing. If all he wants, as he claims, is to play professional football; then what is the relevance of his being homosexual? He reminds me of women sportscasters who claim they want to be taken seriously as a journalist, then they do a photo spread of themselves in a bikini for a magazine. If it’s about football, then go tackle and keep your homosexuality to yourself. If it’s about the career, then why do you feel the need to be seen in a bikini?
This is all about the homosexual community seizing on an opportunity to further force their agenda on the American people. They have strategically put America and the NFL in a box that Raynard neither can get Jackson out of. If for whatever reason Sam does not make an NFL team, the cause will be blamed on him being a homosexual. Should that happen, just watch GLAAD, HRC and the White House pressure the NFL to hire Sam in the NFL’s corporate office as a liaison to the homosexual community. Just watch. There are two parts of this story that the media has conveniently decided to ignore. The media has been willfully negligent in finding active and retired players in the NFL and other sports who object to playing with an openly homosexual teammate. From media reports, you would think there is universal acceptance and agreement on this issue, but it isn’t. But since the opponents don’t fit the desired media narrative, these athletes have been excluded from being interviewed. So much for equality and tolerance. The other ignored issue and in my view, very disturbing is the fact that Sam actually lied about his parents on ESPN; and there has been no media coverage of this issue. Sam said on ESPN, “I told my mom and dad last week, and they just pretty much said, “We knew and we love you and support you…” Sam continued, “I’m their baby boy. I’m the first to go to college. I’m the first to graduate college. Something like this is just another milestone.” The only problem is, what Sam said is not true. His father, Michael Sr., said in a New York Times interview, “he (Sam, Sr.) was celebrating his birthday at a Denny’s near his home in Texas when he received a text from his son that read, “Dad, I’m gay.” Sam Sr. continued, “I couldn’t eat no more, so I went to Applebee’s to have drinks…I don’t want my grandkids raised in that kind of environment…I’m old-school. I’m a man and a woman type of guy.” This whole story has nothing to do with football and more to do with promoting a cause. While Sam Jr. getting drafted as an openly homosexual football player may be a first, it does not merit saturated news coverage it is receiving. (Raynard Jackson is president & CEO of Raynard Jackson & Associates, LLC., a Washington, D.C.based public relations/government affairs firm. He can be reached via www.raynardjackson.com. Follow him on Twitter at raynard1223.)
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Financial marketplace under pressure to be more inclusive NNPA News Service
by George E. Curry NEW YORK – After people of color were excluded last year from the two largest bond issuance deals in history –Verizon Communications, which sold $49 billion of debt, and Apple, Inc., which sold $17 billion of debt – the Rainbow PUSH Wall Street Project is stepping up efforts to expand opportunity for African Americans, women and other disadvantaged groups. “For many in the minority investment arena, a feeling of frustration exists because for almost two decades there has only been gradual progress in opening capital markets to more comprehensive diversity George E. practices,” says a Curry report issued last week by the organization led by civil rights leader Jesse L. Jackson Sr. “Many firms face constant challenges (undercapitalization, limited access to corporate decision-makers, arbitrary caps on utilization) and this one presented by the limited access to debt capital markets opportunities, only adds to the list.” The report, titled, “Minority Inclusion in Debt Capital Markets: A Ranking of Corporate Issuers,” is part of an effort to compel large corporations to improve their record. Released at the annual convention of the Wall Street Project in New York, the report analyzes 70 percent of the debt deals over a 45-month period. It divides firms into five tiers, with Tier 1 having the best record of using minority- and women-owned firms in debt deals. Only four companies were ranked in the top tier: Citicorp, General Electric Company, JP Morgan and Toyota Motor Credit Corp. In Tier 2 were 17 companies: AIG, Ally, AT&T, Bank of America, Bank of New York, Credit Suisse, Deutsche Bank, Ford, General Motors, Goldman Sachs, IBM, MetLife, Pepsico, Southern Company, Verizon Communications, Inc., Walmart and Wells Fargo & Company. Forty-eight companies were listed in Tier 3, including Altria, Boeing, Capital One, Caterpillar, CBS, Federal Express, General Mills, Home Depot, Kellogg, Kraft, Kroger, McDonalds, Pfizer, Starbucks, Walt Disney, Time Warner and Viacom. Tier 4 consisted of 37 companies, including Campbell Soup, CVS, Johnson & Johnson, Marriott International, Procter & Gamble, and Allstate. At the bottom, in Tier 5, with the worst record of diversity were 55 companies, including Aetna, Apple, AutoZone, Bristol Myers Squibb, Costco, Cox Communications, Exxon, Halliburton, Hertz, Hewlett Packard, HJ Heinz Co., John Deere, KeyCorp, Liberty Mutual, Lockheed Martin, NewsCorp, Nike, Nissan Motor Acceptance Corp., Oracle, Safeway, Tennessee Valley Authority, Coca-Cola Co., Waste Management Inc. and Wellpoint. As part of the effort to increase diversity, companies need to revisit policies that restrict minority allocations to 1 to 2 percent, maintain fixed rotations of select minority firms on deals or excluded minority firms altogether. There were some industry variations, according to the report. Because of the nature of their services, for example, financial firms have more debt deals than others sectors; roughly half of deals and communications and the utility sectors were concentrated in Tier 3 and more than 80 percent of energy companies were in Tier 5. According to the report, there is a correlation between diverse corporate boards and successful diversity efforts. “7 companies in this analysis were on Black Enterprise’s list of 75 companies without Black Board Members (Sept. 2013),” the report stated. “Not surprisingly, they were ranked in the lowest two tiers.” Of the companies ranked in Tier 4 and Tier 5, neither CVS, Duke Energy, Ebay, Google, Apple, Hewlett Packard nor NewsCorp had a black board member. “This ranking of corporations casts a direct spotlight on those corporations that are best positioned today, to offer minority firms more economic parity,” the report concluded. “With this foundation of information, the Wall Street Project is positioned to challenge current corporate conventions and seeks to ultimately challenge the status quo. “The goal is to ensure that future Apple and Verizon debt deals will include a broader array of firms, who can equally participate in the economic rewards, manage their firms for long-term sustainability and ultimately, have a positive impact on the economic vitality of our country.”
Tri-State Defender
Using his real-talk style, ESPNʼs “First Take” co-star Stephen A. Smith tapped into his own work history, making points about the need to have an accurate understanding of just how good one is and then doing what is necessary to get better. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)
NEWS
February 20 - 26, 2014
An evening with Stephen A. Smith Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Brittney Gathen
Sports journalist Stephen A. Smith – known for his outspoken, forward nature – didn’t hold anything back when addressing the large crowd that came to hear him speak at the University of Memphis Michael D. Rose Theater on Tuesday (Feb. 12th). From topics such as value and success to race, Smith offered wisdom and commentary in his characteristic blunt, unapologetic manner. Among the topics that he took on was being prepared for and understanding how the world works. “Are you ready for what waits? The world is always ready. It has no compassion, it will ignore you…. unless you understand the challenges that await,” said Smith. “Do you know the difference between being popular and valuable? Popularity means being well known; being valuable means you’ve been targeted as an individual who can make money for someone else. …Everything has to do with dollars and cents. …You have to understand that the world is a business…” Smith emphasized the keys to success and the importance of personal accountability. “Opportunities are what you make them. The opportunities…are for you, if you’re
willing to work. ... I’m the best because I know I’m not. I haven’t arrived; I’m just getting started. …I’m missionminded ….I don’t want to be just seen or heard, I want to be both because what I say will resonate...” Tenacity, he said, is what’s inside of you and what you grow to want. Find what you’re interested in and you’ll find energy and tenacity you never knew you had. “I like doing what needs to be done, that’s what winners do. Whatever it takes to be the best, that’s what you should be doing,” said Smith. “The time for slippage has come to an end. Get on your game.” Smith took head on issues such as race and disenfranchisement. “One time I rocked the very fabric of the political industry when I made a statement. …I didn’t mean it in a literal sense; I was trying to make a point. I said, ‘If you are a member of the black community, you want me to tell you how to rock the foundation of this nation? For one election, every black person should vote Republican.’ “I’m not talking politics, I’m talking disenfranchisement. …I’m talking black folks making themselves relevant again!” Smith said that since President Lyndon Johnson, a Democrat, engineered the passage of the Civil Rights Act in 1964
Republicans have not received a huge percentage of the African-American vote, even though a higher percentage of Republicans than Democrats pushed the legislation. (Southern Democrats, most of whom opposed civil rights legislation, and Democrats from outside the South who tended to back it, split the Democratic Party in the 1960s.) “Since 1964, we spent our time telling one party to kiss off. As a result, we tell the other party, ‘You have our vote.’ So, no one has to work for us. One party knows they got you, the other party knows they don’t. Nobody’s working for you, and then you wonder why you can’t get what you want. I’m not talking politics; I’m talking intelligence. “You go to buy a car, you don’t go to one dealership, you go to a couple. …We do that with everything else, but we forget it with the most important elements that affect our lives. There’s an absence of common sense with that, because you’re not making somebody work for you…” Beneath his no-nonsense demeanor, Smith displayed a passion to make a difference by any means necessary. “I love everybody, but I especially love my people. I have a chance to make a difference, and I’m going to do it every chance I get.”
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LeMoyne-Owen College (807 Walker Ave.)
Feb. 22: 2-4 p.m., Owen College Legacy book signing with Dr. Miriam DeCosta Willis and other Owen College alumni, Dorothy Harris Lounge in the Hanson Student Center. Feb. 22: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., 4th annual Harambee Festival, Bruce-Johnson Hall Gymnasium. For more information, contact Dr. Femi Ajanaku at 901)435-1427.
American Red Cross
In the spirit of Dr. Charles Drew, an African-American and the first medical director of an American Red Cross blood bank, the Red Cross reminds eligible donors of the importance of a diverse blood supply. Patients are less likely to have complications from blood donated by someone with the same ethnicity. Donors of all types are encouraged to help save lives. Appointments 1-800-RED CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org. Upcoming blood donation opportunities: Feb. 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at ServiceMaster, 3839 Forest HillIrene Road. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
Slave Haven
Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum (Burkle Estate) is located at 826 No. Second St. Feb., 22: Artists Market, African Artifacts, African Clothing, Doll Makers, Crafts, Jewelry, Paintings. Museum hours: Monday – Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admissions: $10
AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH February 20 - 26, 2014
adults; $8 students.
Rhodes College
Calendar of events
Feb. 28 – “Lee Daniels’ The Butler” Film Showing at 7 p.m. in the University Center Theatre at the University of Memphis.
Rhodes College’s Memphis sor of History and Director of Wendi Thomas from 5 p.m. to Center will present a two-day the African American Studies 7 p.m. at Pink Palace Museum. conference titled “From Civil Program, at 901-843-3525; University of Mississippi War to Civil Rights: Race, Re- E m a i l : Feb. 25 – An Evening with gion and the Making of Public mckinneyc@rhodes.edu. Or, actor Louis Gossett Jr. at 7 Feb. 24: Soledad O’Brien, Memory” Friday, Feb. 28, and Rin Abernathy, Administrative p.m. in the University Center the former CNN anchor, will Saturday, March 1. Bringing Assistant to the Memphis Cen- Theatre at the University of speak at 5:30 p.m. Open to the together historians, writers, ter 901-843-3260; Email: aber- Memphis. public. To find out more and teachers and artists, the confer- nathyr@rhodes.edu. Also, visit Feb. 26 – The University of see the complete list of Black ence explores the ways that the http://rhodes.edu/memphiscen- Memphis will host a luncheon History Month events, go to: Civil War, the Civil Rights terconference. and panel discussion on the http://news.olemiss.edu/forMovement, and the intervening state of civil rights in Memphis mer-cnn-anchor-soledadyears have shaped America’s University of Memphis from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the obrien-to-speak-at-um-black-h understandings of race, region, .UuUniversity Center Bluff Room istory-month/ the South, citizenship and imXmo9yE at the University of Memphis. Feb. 20 – “Race-Girl: How identity. an Artist Tackled a Touchy Contact the Office of MulticulFree and open to the public, Subject and How It Tackled tural Affairs at 901-678-2054 Chucalissa attendees are encouraged to Her” lecture Damali Ayo for more information. register in advance at explores raceby Feb. 26 – Igniting ExciteFeb. 22: Celebrating Black from http://rhodes.edu/memphiscen- her perspectiverelations ment event begins at 4 p.m. in History Month in the Heritage as a visual terconference. The event be- artist and author. Reception, the University Center River of Southwest Memphis, 10 gins with an opening reception 5:30 p.m.; lecture at 6 p.m. in Room at the University of a.m. to 2 p.m. at the C.H. Nash at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 27, the University Center Theatre Memphis. Museum. Presentations inin the McCallum Ballroom of at the University of Memphis. Feb. 26 – Stax Music Acad- clude: The Abandoned Cemethe Bryan Campus Life Center Feb. 20 – “Mid-South Racial emy’s Black History Month teries of Southwest Memphis featuring the by Coriana Close, Rhodes Jazz Players M.F.A., Assistant in a celebration of Professor, DepartMemphis jazz. ment of Art, UniKate Masur, who versity of th teaches 19 century Memphis; DocuU.S. history at menting and PreNorthwestern Uniserving a People’s versity, will present History – A Sense the plenary lecture of Place by Cynthia on Friday, Feb. 28, Jones Sadler, at 9 a.m. in Barret Ph.D., African and Library 051 on camAfrican American pus. The day’s Studies, University events include preof Memphis; A sentations, master History of Educaclasses, a documention in Southwest tary, an evening reMemphis by ception, and the Earnestine Jenkins, keynote address – Ph.D., Associate “A Deeper Black: Professor of Art Race in America” History, University by Ta-Nehisi of Memphis; ComCoates, senior editor ments and Recogfor The Atlantic—at nition of U.S. 5:30 p.m. in the McMilitary Veterans Callum Ballroom. by Robert Gurley, The second day inPresident, Westcludes touring of se- Memphis is one of three cities being honored during African-American His- wood Neighborlected destinations tory Month with Wells Fargoʼs first outdoor murals in the Mid-South. The hood Association, around the city. Also Memphis mural – 11.3 feet wide and six feet high, includes an image of three Inc.; on view at the con- of the first elementary students to integrate the cityʼs schools. During the Also, film ference will be a unveiling on Tuesday, Wells Fargo donated $7,500 to the National Civil screening of gallery display of Rights Museum. The other two cities are Birmingham and Montgomery Al- “Black Diamonds photography by abama. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley) Blues City,” which Ernest Withers. tells the story of For more inforbaseball’s segregated Negro Present” Lecture by The Commation, contact: Dr. Charles mercial Appeal columnist Performance from 7 p.m. to 10 Leagues with particular emMcKinney, Associate Profesp.m. at Minglewood Hall.
Tri-State Defender
phasis on the Memphis Red Sox. A pizza lunch will be served. This event is free and open to the public. More information: 901-785-3160, ext. 12 or kjthmpsn@memphis.edu.
Bellevue Middle School
Feb. 28: “Bellevue Honors,” a formal award show, will honor African Americans who have made significant contributions to society. The New Tri-State Defender will be saluted in the areas of journalism and community service. Time: 8:30 am. More information: 901-416-4488 or 901230-9356.
DeSoto County African American History Symposium
Feb. 22: Second Annual Banquet. Theme: “The Civil Rights Movement in Retrospect; Our Struggles, Triumphs and Challenges in Modern times.” Time: 6 p.m., The Gale Center, Hernando, Miss. Tickets: Mike Smith, 901-4813 9 6 8 ; smithm410@yahoo.com. Visit: dcaahs.com
JEWEL Awards Banquet
Feb. 28: Lane College alumni and long-time WDIA radio personality Mark Stansbury will serve as master of ceremonies for the 13th Annual JEWEL Awards Banquet hosted by the Jackson Madison County African American Chamber of Commerce. The Black History Month banquet featuring singer Vickie Winans will be at Oman Arena, 179 Lane Ave. in Jackson. Sponsored by the City of Jackson, Lane College, West Tennessee Healthcare, along with West Tennessee Examiner, WFKX 96KIX, Brownsville Radio, News Talk WNWS and WOJG-FM 94.7 Bolivar. Floor dinner seating, $50 per person; concert lodge seating, $25. Tickets online: www.jmcaacc.org/buy-tickets.html. For more information: 731-424-2030.
BUSINESS
Tri-State Defender
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February 20 - 26, 2014
ON OUR WAY TO WEALTHY
To adequately – and legally – decrease our tax liability we must understand various components of our tax return. Let’s begin with filing status. What is a filing status? A taxpayer’s filing status impacts which tax rate is used and which standard deductions apply when calculating federal income tax for the year. For the most part, five different statuses are considered. They are: single, head of household, married filing separately, married filing jointly and qualifying widow/widower with dependents. Keep in mind that there may be exceptions to the rules that may be more beneficial to you. So, speaking with a tax professional is recommended. Let’s review the categories to determine which status applies to your situation.
Single
For those unmarried taxpayers with no dependents on the
Taxes: What is my filing status? last day of the year, the single filing status is the category that may be most appropriate. If the taxpayer has a deCarlee McCullough p e n d e n t , then the filing status of Head of Household may provide a better tax benefit. Head of Household
If a single taxpayer has been providing care for a dependent for greater than six months, then the taxpayer may be eligible for the Head of Household (HOH) filing status. HOF filers are eligible for a higher standard deduction and lower tax rates than those filers that are “Single.” Only certain closely related dependents
will support a taxpayer being allowed to file as HOH. There is an exception for a married person to file as HOH as well. A married taxpayer may be eligible to file HOH if the married couple did not live together for the last six months of the year and the taxpayer’s home was the main home for their child for more than six months.Other tests may apply so ask your tax preparer. The HOH status allows the taxpayer to take a higher deduction and/or claim earned income credit, if applicable, along with other credits. HOH may even allow the married taxpayer to take the standard deduction if the other spouse itemizes.
Married Filing Separately
When taxpayers are married, they have the option of filing jointly or separately. The taxpayer status with the
least favorable tax treatment benefits is married filing separately (MFS). MFS provides the taxpayers with the ability to maintain separate tax liabilities. This benefit may be appealing if one spouse has or expects tax issues. So the ability to maintain separate tax liability may be worth the increased tax liability. Other reasons married couples may file separately include: 1) One spouse does not want to be responsible for the other party’s tax bill. 2) One spouse owes taxes and the other expects to receive a refund. 3) One spouse believes the information on the joint return is false or inaccurate and does not want to agree to the accuracy of the information. 4) The couple is still married but separated. They have not divorced yet but want to begin to separate their tax filings. Even if the parties are married filing separately, the
spouses must agree on who carries the children as a dependent. Two individuals may not carry the same children on different returns. Spouses must communicate with each other to determine the treatment of the dependents. Additionally parties that are MFS must both agree to itemize or use the standard deduction.
Qualifying Widow/ Widower with Dependents
Remember, the filing status is determined on the last day of the year. When a taxpayer experiences the loss of spouse, IRS provides a special filing status to assist with the financial burden left by the deceased. The year that the spouse dies, the surviving spouse may choose to either file MFJ or MFS. However, for the two subsequent years, the surviving spouse may be eligible to file as a Qualifying Widow/Widower with a Dependent Child if they are
maintaining a household for the child.
Married Filing Jointly
Couples that are married may decide to file one tax return together or otherwise known as married filing jointly (MFJ). When filing jointly, the incomes and deductions for both parties are combined into one filing. Both parties must agree to file together, agree to the accuracy of the information on the tax return, and sign the document. MFJ provides the taxpayers with more benefits than MFS. (For more information about Spotlight Productions, visit www.spotlightproductions.net or email me fabian@spotlightproductions.net.)
(Contact Carlee McCullough, Esq., at 5308 Cottonwood Road, Suite 1A, Memphis, TN 38118, or email her at jstce4all@aol.com.)
MONEY MATTERS
Trusts have often been used to help protect assets from estate taxes, but fewer estates are subject to federal estate taxation since the exemption rose to $5 million in 2010 with annual inflation adjustments. (The 2014 exemption is $5.34 million, or $10.68 million for married couples.) Even so, a trust can offer other benefits, such as sparing heirs the time-consuming and costly probate process and protecting assets so they will be distributed according to your wishes.
Legal control of assets
A trust is a legal arrangement under which one person or institution controls property given by another person for the benefit of a third party. The person giving the property is referred
Time for a trust?
to as the trustor ( o r grantor), the person controlling the property is t h e trustee, and the Charles Sims Jr., CFP p e r s o n f o r whom the trust operates is the beneficiary. With some trusts, you can name yourself as the trustor, the trustee, and the beneficiary. Although you may be hesitant to give up control of your assets, in some cases it may be worthwhile to choose an independent trustee who would be
subject to strict legal requirements in administering the trust.
Testamentary vs. living trusts
A testamentary trust becomes effective upon your death and is usually established by your last will and testament. It enables you to control the distribution of your estate, including the opportunity to name a guardian for minor children’s assets, but does not avoid probate. A living trust takes effect during your lifetime. When you set up a living trust, you transfer the title of all the assets you wish to place in the trust from you as an individual to the trust. Technically, you no longer own the transferred assets. If you
name yourself as trustee, you maintain full control of the assets and can buy, sell, or give them away as you see fit. However, this option may negate any estate tax benefits. Living trusts can be revocable or irrevocable. A revocable trust can be dissolved or amended at any time while the grantor is still alive. An irrevocable trust, on the other hand, is extremely difficult to modify or revoke (and is subject to state law). (By definition, testamentary trusts are always irrevocable.) See the chart for a comparison of these two kinds of trusts.
Other trusts
A variety of other properly executed trusts could be used
to meet specific needs. Here are four of the most common: Charitable trust: Enables you to provide a charitable organization with a regular income for a set period or a lump sum at the end of the period. Incentive trust: Makes the transfer of assets to heirs contingent on their meeting goals or expectations, such as attaining higher education or starting a family. Supplemental or specialneeds trust: Can help provide for a disabled child and may ensure that the child qualifies for government assistance programs. Life insurance trust: Helps ensure that the proceeds of a life insurance policy are excluded from your estate. The cost and availability of
life insurance depend on factors such as age, health, and the type and amount of insurance purchased. Before implementing a life insurance strategy, it would be prudent to make sure you are insurable. There are costs and expenses associated with the creation of a trust. The use of trusts involves a complex web of tax rules and regulations. You should consider the counsel of an experienced estate planning professional and your legal and tax advisors before implementing such strategies. (Charles Sims Jr. is president/ CEO of The Sims Financial Group. Contact him at 901-682-2410 or visit www.SimsFinancialGroup.co m.)
RELIGION
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Tri-State Defender
February 20 - 26, 2014
RELIGION BRIEFS
DR. HENRY LOGAN STARKS ‘VISIONARIES’
Living Legends Sunday at New Sardis Baptist Church
A celebration of local Living Legends will take place at New Sardis Baptist Church on Sunday (Feb. 23rd) at 11 o’clock. The annual event was started 11 years ago by Dr. Erma L. Clanton in an effort to teach our children of the struggles, perseverance and accomplishment of giants who walk among them in our community. The program is the highlight of New Sardis’ Black History Month activities. Among the legends to be honored this year are: the Memphis State Eight, the 1968 Sanitation Workers and the Rev. James L. Come and join Pastor L. LaSimba Gray, Jr., and the New Sardis Church Family as we thank God for the sacrifices of these great Legends who walk and live among us. New Sardis is located at 7739 East Holmes Road. The host pastor is the Rev. L. LaSimba Gray Jr. For more information, contact the church office at 901-754-3979.
Career & Scholarship Day set for Saint James C.O.G.I.C
On Sunday (Feb. 23rd) from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saint James C.O.G.I.C., at 673 Marianna St., is hosting Career & Scholarship Day 2014. The annual empowerment event is designed to educate and inspire people to get an education and find a career that will enable them to “live more positive and productive lives!” The line-up of speakers includes Kia Thomas, Regions Bank financial consultant; Sherry Self, motivational speaker, entrepreneur and minister; Arnita Fields, motivational speaker and author; and Kevin Ferrell, peer counselor at AlphaOmega Veterans Services, Inc. and motivational speaker. Career & Scholarship Day 2014 is free, with vendors offering various products and services. For more information, contact Shelanda Simmons at 901-848-5818
Services to honor Evangelist Frances B. Kelley at 80
A celebration of Evangelist Frances B. Kelley’s 80th birthday will be held on April 7th at Pentecostal Temple COGIC located at 229 S Danny Thomas Boulevard, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Kelley is the director of the Intercessory Prayer Ministry of the Church of God in Christ, Inc., a National Prayer Leader, and an advocate member of the Women’s Department. She also serves as the Prayer Leader of Tennessee Headquarters Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction. Evangelist Kelley is well known as one of the first females to host a talk show in the MidSouth. Her career took off in television in 1974 as co-host of “Good Morning From Memphis,” as she shared the spotlight with Olin Morris, general manager of WREG-TV Channel 3 for 13 years. Her interview of David Duke, Ku Klux Klan grand wizard, was a stellar moment for television, says Bobby Eoff, producer of the show. During the interview, Kelley stunned Duke with this question: “Honey, why do you hate me?” An author, Kelley has appeared on numerous national television programs, including the “700 Club,” “Jack Van Impe,” and “PTL.” A faithful member of Pentecostal Temple Church of God in Christ since 1964, she recently became a charter member of Gilgal Temple Church of God in Christ, where her son, Elder George Kelley, is pastor. BRIEFLY: St. John Baptist Church at 640 Vance Ave. will host its annual Men’s Day Program at 3 p.m. Sunday (Feb. 23rd). Guest speaker: the Rev. Evan G. Collins, pastor of Eastern Star Baptist Church, with music by the Eastern Star Choir. A reception will follow in the A. McEwen Williams Fellowship Hall. Host pastor: the Rev. Henry L. Key.
“Illuminating A Legacy of Visionaries” was the theme of this yearʼs 27th Annual Dr. Henry Logan Starks Scholarship Dinner & Awards Ceremony, which took place Thursday (Feb. 13) at Memphis Theological Seminary. Lorene Jones of the Memphis State Eight is helped on stage by MTS President Daniel J. Earhart-Brown.
Those honored and saluted included three awards recipients and members of the Memphis State Eight. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley)
T.D. Jakes files lawsuit against alleged stalker NewsOne
by Ruth Manuel-Logan Revered mega church televangelist, author and television/film producer T.D. Jakes is facing a battle against violent former congregation member Karleisha Tarver. Reportedly, the woman has stalked him in the past, so Jakes not only filed a lawsuit against her last month but a judge extended a restraining order last Friday because Tarver’s actions “may ultimately lead to the death of one of the plaintiffs, their family, their friends, church attendees and/or Karleisha staff,” states the Fort Tarver Worth “Star-Telegram.” The restraining order is a short-term one until a court hearing scheduled for next week, determining whether Jakes’ alleged stalker should be court-mandated to stay away from him permanently. Tarver has reportedly stalked Jakes since
The Rev. T.D. Jakes
2011. The woman even allegedly tried to break into the bishop’s Fort Worth home on numerous occasions last month. During one such attempted break-in, one of Jakes’ security officers tried to stop Tarver from entering the premises. The woman allegedly accelerated her car and tried to run over the security guard, prompting other guards to summon police.
At Caldwell-Guthrie, pastors and ministry leaders join students to salute teachers
The Rev. George Parks Jr., pastor of Riverside Missionary Baptist Church, says, “Our teachers are the driving force every step of the way.” Parks (back, left) was among the faith leaders with Shepherding the Next Generation that helped salute Caldwell-Guthrie teachers on Valentineʼs Day. (Courtesy photo)
Teachers at Caldwell-Guthrie Elementary received a special Valentine’s Day thank you from their students and more than a dozen pastors and ministry leaders. Giant red hearts with messages that capture “what my teacher means to me” were presented to the teachers after a read-along between the ministry leaders and children. The teachers were then treated to a special luncheon, at which they received a Certificate of Appreciation from Shepherding the Next Generation, a nonprofit organization of faith leaders that has supported the Teacher and Leader Effectiveness initiative in Memphis. The pastors also released a report, “Teachers are turning around Memphis schools,” that highlights results of the Tennessee ValueAdded Assessment System (TVAAS). Established in 2010, the TVAAS set specific expectations for academic improvement for all Tennessee students. Memphis’ 4th and 8th graders, in particular, are now exceeding those expectations in reading, math, social studies and science. “The journey to excellence is a marathon of effort and faith and the absolute will to succeed,” said George Parks Jr., of Riverside Missionary Baptist Church. “Our teachers are the driving force every step of the way.”
PRAISE CONNECT -A WEEKLY DIRECTORY OF MINISTERS & CHURCHES-
METROPOLITAN BAPTIST CHURCH Dr. Reginald L. Porter Sr., Pastor
767 Walker Avenue Memphis, TN 38126
ASSOCIATE MINISTERS
901-946-4095 fax 948-8311
Rev. Davena Young Porter Rev. Linda A Paige Rev. Luecretia Matthews SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES
SUNDAY Sunday School .....................8:30 am Morning Worship Service ....10:00am
WEDNESDAY Bible Study .........................10:30 am Mid-Day Prayer Meeting .....12 noon Evening Prayer Meeting........7:00pm
FRIDAY Cable Channel 17 ............... 8:00pm
Dr. & Rev. Mrs. Reginald Porter
“Cast your burden on the LORD, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.”
– Psalm 55:22
Tarver again attempted to enter Jakes’ home on Jan. 9, 14 and 17. On Jan. 9, she was “screaming obscenities,” per court documents. The 31-year-old woman was a former Potter’s House Of Dallas congregant and in 2011 was expelled from the 30,000-strong member church. Later that year, Tarver reportedly interrupted a bible study meeting at the church and began yelling at the top of her lungs for no apparent reason. Police were summoned to the disturbance and gave her a criminal trespass citation at the time. Court documents also state that Tarver was reportedly committed to a mental health facility in 2012. She was also convicted of criminal trespass in the same year and sentenced to 15 days in jail. Last month, Tarver entered Potter’s House sporting a sling on her left arm. The woman tried approaching Jakes as he preached at the altar. She was apprehended by the church’s security team and spoken to about her erratic behavior. An arrest warrant was put out for Tarver after her alleged trespassing attempt last month and she was placed behind bars on January 26. Tarver is currently being held at a Dallas County jail and has a bail of $1,000.
Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. —Matthew 7: 1-2
Attend the Church of your choice
I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. —Phillipians 4:13
ENTERTAINMENT Tri-State Defender, Thursday, February 20 - 26, 2014, Page 9
E-BRIEFS Young poets to compete for Drop the Mic Crown
The National Civil Rights Museum will host the Drop the Mic Poetry Slam competition at the Rumba Room at 333 S. Main Street on Saturday (Feb. 22nd). The event – set to run from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. – is one of several that will celebrate the Museum’s grand reopening. Youth and young adults (15-25) will articulate their views on freedom. Poets will perform original pieces following the theme “My Freedom Is.” Celebrity judges are Danny Simmons, co-producer of “Def Poetry Jam,” along with Memphis natives Aisha Raison and multi-platinum hit-maker Drumma Boy. “I’m always down for my city, especially when it comes to young people,” said Drumma Boy. “These types of events are important because it gives young people a voice, just like hip hop.” Two grand prize winners, one in each category, will win a $1,000 cash prize, a museum membership and the opportunity to perform the winning piece on the main stage at the Museum’s grand reopening on April 5, 2014. The second and third place winners in each category will win $750 and $500, respectively. The list of special performing artists include Ekundayo Bandele (executive artistic director, Hattiloo Theatre), national recording artist Tonya Dyson, Phat Mack and Artistik Approach.
Stax Records focus of Rhodes series
As part of its “Memphis Centered” series, Rhodes College will present “Respect Yourself: A Celebration of Stax Records,” featuring informal performances and discussions about the music and magic of Stax Records in the 1960s and 1970s. The March 6th event is free and begins at 6 p.m. in the McCallum Ballroom of the Bryan Campus Life Center on the Rhodes campus. Refreshments will be served at 5:30 p.m. The event will be hosted by fRobert Gordon, acclaimed author and filmmaker, whose book “Respect Yourself: Stax Records and the Soul Explosion” has earned national acclaim. Joining Gordon for the conversation are four legendary members of Stax’s musical family: Bettye Crutcher, songwriter, producer and recording artist; Willie Hall, drummer and producer; Don Nix, guitarist, producer and recording artist; and Marvell Thomas, keyboardist and producer. A book and CD signing will follow the event, which also is co-sponsored by Rhodes’ Mike Curb Institute for Music. Those with specific inquiries can contact Dr. Charles Hughes of Rhodes’ Memphis Center at hughesc@rhodes.edu or 901-8433411.
2014 Emissaries of Memphis Music set for March 20th
The Memphis Music Commission’s 2014 Emissaries of Memphis Music salute to Memphis Women in Music is set for March 20th at the Kroc Center at 800 East Parkway South. Trailblazing sheroes who have made significant contributions to the Memphis Music culture will be honored! This year’s event will celebrate the career achievements of Shontelle Norman, Pam Hetsel Parham, Trenyce, Vicki Loveland, Barbara Jackson Sago, Carla Thomas, Vaneese Thomas, Lahna Deering and Sharisse Norman. It also will feature performances by previous Emissary honorees, including Nancy Apple and Dani. Proceeds will benefit the Memphis Musicians Healthcare Plan. General Admission: Tickets: $35; VIP seating: $50. Time: 7 p.m. For more information call 901-5766850; Visit www.memphismusic.org. BRIEFLY: Bluff City Tri-Art Theatre Company will remount its eighth season play “Ventilations!” as a fundraiser for the Women’s Theatre Festival of Memphis. The biennial 3-day event will run Aug. 7-9, 2014. The book, “Ventilations: Collections of a Certain Woman’s Truths,” was written by Memphis native, now Houston, Texas educator Samantha Brooks. It was adapted for the stage by Ruby O’Gray and is directed by Precious Morris. The play “Ventilations!” will run Saturdays, March 1, 8, at 7 p.m. and Sundays, March 2, 9, at 3 p.m. at TheatreWorks, 2085 Monroe Ave. All seats are $15. For reservations call 901946-6140.
Confunkshun put the wraps on a great night of funk at the “We Love You Valentine Concert” at Harrahʼs Casino Event Center in Tunica. (Photos: Warren Roseborough)
We want the funk! C
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Warren Roseborough lear Channel’s WDIA-V101 “We Love You Valentine Concert” held at Harrah’s Casino Event Center in Tunica was funktastic and just what old school enthusiasts like myself needed. Here’s my snapshot review of the Saturday night (Feb. 15th) show. The Jones Girls were the opening act, treating the packed house with songs such as “Runaway Love,” “Nights Over Egypt,” and “You Gonna Make Me Somebody Else.” Once the back Love Lead singer Brenda up band for Elaine Jones Williams is only original memthe Soul Chil- the ber still in the group. dren at Stax Still, this group of Records, Con- “Jones Girls” set a good for the rest of the funkshun put tone night. Next up was Zapp, the wrap on former lead the night. without singer and frontman, Roger Troutman. This was arguably the best performance of the night. There was amazing energy and superb sound throughout their performance. Changing costumes at a fast pace, Zapp had the crowd dancing and snapping fingers on every song. Lakeside got my vote for best costumes that befit a group’s name. They came out singing their hit song “Raid” and closed it out with “Fantastic Voyage,” as the crowd got its dance on, again. Once the back up band for the Soul Children at Stax Records, Confunkshun put the wrap on the night. The multi-platinum recording artists performed hits such as “Chase Me,” “Fun,” “Shake and Dance with me,” “Straight from the Heart,” and their signature ballad, “Love’s Train.” Syndicated radio personality Tom Joyner was the emcee and Shoney’s was the presenting sponsor. All in all, it was a night that showed that Greater Memphis’ desire for good funk is still alive.
The Jones Girls were the opening act at the “We Love You Valentine Concert” at Harrahʼs Casino Event Center in Tunica.
Zapp delivered a high-energy performance at the “We Love You Valentine Concert” at Harrahʼs Casino Event Center in Tunica.
Forest Whitaker: The ‘Repentance’ interview Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Kam Williams
Forest Whitaker is a distinguished artist and humanist. He is the founder of PeaceEarth Foundation, co-founder and chair of the International Institute for Peace and is the UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Peace and Reconciliation. He is also a talented, versatile performer and one of Hollywood’s most accomplished figures. Here, he talks about his latest movie, “Repentance,” a psychological thriller co-starring Anthony Mackie, Sanaa Lathan, Nicole Ari Parker and Mike Epps.
Kam Williams: Editor/Legist Patricia Turnier asks: “What interested you in producing and starring in “Repentance?” Forest Whitaker: I’d say the fact that it’s a movie that talks about dealing with your past issues and past pain, and being able to move forward in the future from that. I think that’s a lesson that we all have to deal with and learn from. In addition, the film offered me a great opportunity to do a really interesting character with an amazing cast of actors, and to be directed by a friend and associate, one of my partners. We own a company together. So, a lot of things came together to make this happen for us.
KW: What message do you think people will take away from “Repentance?” FW: Understanding and searching for the truth by dealing with issues from the past, by taking them out and allowing them to be present so that you can move past them or with them into your future. I think this film
suggests it’s possible to address even those hidden secrets that we keep sequestered under the rug of our minds.
KW: Vassar Film Professor Mia Mask asks: “How do you prepare for a role? What steps do you take to understand and become Angel Forest Sanchez?” Whitaker FW: I read a number of different books and articles on mental illness… about schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, medications and issues surrounding those topics. And I also did some interviews with people dealing with those things. So, that helped shaped part of Angel. For the rest of it, I tried to look at grief and pain. I wanted to understand the stages of grief, and the escalation that might happen if this person was in deep pursuit of the truth about the loss of his mother, and then you put the other stuff on top of that. So, I just kept piling it on until it started to leak out in the movie.
KW: Harriet Pakula-Teweles says: “Thank you for (‘Lee Daniel’s’) ‘The Butler’ – your performance and that of the great ensemble cast made the movie truly memorable. What consideration enters into your decision to take on a role?” FW: I think every character bears it, but I’d like to know that the movie’s going to shed some more light on our humanity, and open up another door for me. I think the biggest thing that motivates me when I’m
choosing a part is a role that will help me continue to grow as a person and as an artist, and a role that will deepen my understanding of humanity, and my connection to it. KW: Environmental activist Grace Sinden says: “I loved you in ‘The Butler.’ Is there a particular role that you would like to do next, if you could choose any one you want?” FW: Well, I’ve been playing around and toying with doing the Louie Armstrong story. I’ve developed a script we’ve been working on. It still may happen. That’s interesting to me. Otherwise, I’m just looking for characters that continue to make me stretch and grow and learn more about the human condition. …
KW: Documentary filmmaker Kevin Williams asks: “When did you realize that you could carry a film as the star?” FW: I guess it would be around the time I made “Bird,” because, although I wasn’t all that confident about my performance, it was the first time I was allowed to be the focal point of a film.
KW: Mike Pittman asks: When did you get your first big break as an actor? FW: My first big break? I think “The Color of Money” was very instrumental in opening up other opportunities. People started to recognize me as an artist after that film. And then, after I did “Bird,” it was more solidified. … KW: Is there something you wish people would note about you? FW: The desire to connect.
ENTERTAINMENT
Page 10
February 20 - 26, 2014
OPENING THIS WEEK
Kam’s Kapsules:
Weekly Previews That Make Choosing a Film Fun
Gladiators...
Adewale AkinnuoyeAgbaje (left) had to work extremely hard to play a champion gladiator in director Paul W.S. Andersonʼs “Pompeii.” Here, he stands in ready mode with Kit Harington, who plays the lead in the role as “a slave turned invincible gladiator who finds himself in a race against time to save his true love Cassia (Emily Browning).” (Courtesy photo)
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Kam Williams
For movies opening Feb. 21, 2014
BIG BUDGET FILMS
“3 Days to Kill” (PG-13 for sensuality, profanity and intense violence) McG directs this espionage thriller by Luc Besson about an ailing spy (Kevin Costner) who grudgingly agrees to crack a terrorist plot when he’d rather retire to spend some quality time with his teenage daughter (Hailee Steinfeld) and estranged wife (Connie Nielsen). Cast includes Amber Heard, Eriq Ebouaney and Richard Sammel.
“Pompeii” (PG-13 for intense violence, disaster scenes and brief sexuality) Romance drama, set in 79 A.D. against the backdrop of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, revolving around the efforts of a slave-turned-gladiator (Kit Harrington) to rescue his soul mate (Emily Browning) before she is forced by her wealthy father (Jared Harris) into an arranged marriage to a crooked politician (Kiefer Sutherland). With Rebecca Eady, Carrie-Anne Moss, Sasha Roiz and Adewale AkinnuoyeAgbaje.
INDEPENDENT & FOREIGN FILMS
“Almost Human” (Unrated) Sci-fi horror flick about a guy (Josh Ethier) who disappears in a flash of bright light only to return to town just as mysteriously two years later right before the start of a string of grisly murders. With Graham Skipper, Vanessa Leigh and Susan T. Travers.
“Barefoot” (PG-13 for violence, sexuality, partial nudity and brief profanity) Romantic
dramedy about a family’s Black Sheep (Scott Speedman) who brings his charming, freespirited girlfriend (Evan Rachel Wood) home to prove that he’s turned a new leaf. Co-starring Kate Burton (Richard’s daughter), Rex Baker and Ashleigh Borman. “Bethlehem” (Unrated) Middle East drama about an Israeli Secret Service agent (Tsahi Halevi) who induces a Palestinian teenager (Shadi Mar’i) to snitch on his terrorist brother (Tarik Kopty). With Hitham Omari, Michal Shtamler and George Iskandar (In Hebrew and Arabic with subtitles) “Black Out” (Unrated) Shades of The Hangover in this Dutch crime comedy about a groom-to-be (Raymond Thiry) who becomes the prime suspect in a murder case when he wakes up with amnesia on the eve of his wedding lying in bed next to a corpse. Cast includes Kim van Kooten, Bas Keijzer and Renee Fokker. (In Dutch for subtitles) “Child’s Pose” (Unrated) Crime drama about a wealthy socialite’s (Luminita Gheorghiu) attempt to manipulate the legal system to prevent her son (Bogdan Dumitrache) from being brought to justice after he’s arrested for manslaughter. With Vlad Ivanov, Florin Zamfirescu and Natasa Raab. (In Romanian with subtitles) “Highway” (Unrated) Bollywood abduction drama about an engaged couple (Randeep Hooda and Alai Bhatt) who suddenly find themselves kidnapped four days before their wedding. (In Hindi and Nepali with subtitles)
“Holy Ghost People” (R for violence, profanity and drug use) Psychological thriller, set in the Appalachian Mountains, about a 19 year-old (Emma Greenwell) who enlists the assistance of an ex-Marine (Brendan Mc-
Carthy) to save her sister (Buffy Charlet) who has come under the spell of the charismatic cult leader (Joe Egender) of a snake-handling, Pentecostal congregation. With Roger Aaron Brown, Cameron Richardson and Don Harvey. “In Secret” (R for sexuality and violent images) Romance drama, set in Paris in the 1860s, about a young woman (Elizabeth Olsen) forced by her domineering aunt (Jessica Lange) into a loveless marriage with her own cousin (Tom Felton), who embarks on an illicit affair with a friend (Oscar Isaac) of her husband. With Mackenzie Crook, Matt Devere and Lily Laight.
“Omar” (Unrated) Middle East saga about a Palestinian terrorist (Adam Bakri) who turns informant after being tricked by interrogators into confessing that he killed an Israeli soldier (Foad Abed-Eihadi). Cast includes Essam Abu Aabed, Adel Abu-Lasheen and Baher Agbariya. (In Arabic and Hebrew with subtitles)
“One Candle, Two Candle” (Unrated) Iraqi comedy about a teenager (Katrin Ender) who runs away to the arms of an artist (Perwar Tariq) her own age rather than consummate her arranged marriage to an elderly businessman (Kurdo Galali). With Nalin Kobani, Dilsoz Maweti and Heyder Behcet. (In Kurdish with subtitles) “The Wind Rises” (PG-13 for smoking and some disturbing images) animated biopic recounting the life and career of Jiro Horikoshi (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), the aeronautical engineer who designed the Zero and other fighter planes for Japan during World War II. Voice cast includes Emily Blunt, Jennifer Grey, Stanley Tucci, William H. Macy, Mandy Patinkin, Elijah Wood and Ronan Farrow (son of Mia and Woody Allen).
Tri-State Defender
HOROSCOPES
Feb. 20-26, 2014
ARIES Allow yourself to live your dream this week. Don’t second guess your instincts or desires and you will find you are already the person who you always knew you could be. Be courageous as you set forth to fulfill your goals. If doubt knocks, lock the doors and windows of your heart. TAURUS Trust your special knowledge of yourself and the universe and use that knowledge as a guide this week. Not everyone will trust in what you know to be true. Do not let their lack of faith shake your belief in yourself. Knowledge of external processes is not nearly so important as knowledge of yourself this week. GEMINI It’s not always what you know, or even who you know that paves the road to success. Sometimes it’s just being in the right place at the right time that counts. Be prepared to answer when opportunity knocks this week. Accept your good fortune graciously, and share it with others. CANCER In our society looks sometimes matter more than they should, but that is not to say looks don’t matter at all. Presentation is important, keep that in mind as you walk through life. This week take a few extra moments to make sure that your physical self is as attractive as it can be. You will see a bigger than usual change not only in the way others feel about you but in the way you feel about yourself. LEO A family treat is in store for you if you play your cards right. Family members are ready to praise you for your accomplishments if you approach them with modesty. Give yourself time for romantic encounters. The romantic vibe is high. VIRGO Ask the friend who comes calling to tell you about the moneymaking idea that is on his or her mind. The two of you would be good together. Have a private chat with a family member. Make keeping secrets your specialty. Events bring stress but you’re cool. LIBRA Responsibilities at home keep you from traveling. It’s all for the best. Outside ambitions can wait. Keep your spirit light! Look for love in the right places. Possibilities for love increase at home. The tendency to overreact at school or work is strong. Guard against it. SCORPIO Flexibility and cooperation are the words for this week. Driving a hard bargain will create an impossible barrier. It’s a great week for fun! Give in to it. Flow. Give in to the party mood but don’t forget school or work. Remembering to forgive and forget is especially important this week. SAGITTARIUS There is a lot on your plate. Be methodical about taking care of it. Get kids involved in something fun and educational. It’s a good time for it. Save time for romance. Visit a favorite restaurant. Appetites must be fed in a healthy way. CAPRICORN Make some plans regarding long-range financial security. Your present frame of mind is good for that. Someone you flirted with wants to be your companion. Give the universe a chance to bring love into your life by being a welcoming soul. AQUARIUS 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. PISCES You may feel an internal pressure towards responsibility this week. Go with the flow and this week will be like a gift. Judging others will bring harsh judgments on you. Let your words assist others in becoming more self-responsible. You are a good teacher of right actions. Source: NNPA News Service
COMMUNITY
Tri-State Defender
BRIEFS & THINGS
State Supreme Court names Odell Horton Jr. to Board of Professional Responsibility
Odell Horton Jr., a partner with Wyatt, Tarrant & Combs, has been appointed by the state Supreme Court to the Board of Professional Responsibility of the Supreme Court of Tennessee. The Board of Professional Responsibility considers and votes on disciplinary actions against attorneys and issues ethics opinions interpreting the Odell Rules of Professional Conduct. Horton Jr. It is comprised of nine lawyers from each of the state’s disciplinary districts plus three non-lawyers from each of the state’s Grand Divisions. Horton, who chairs Wyatt, Tarrant & Combs’ Diversity Committee, concentrates his practice in the areas of governmental issues, corporate law and litigation. Prior to joining Wyatt, he served as vice president and general counsel of Memphis Light Gas & Water Division, as vice chancellor for University Relations at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, and as an assistant attorney general and reporter with the Civil Rights and Claims Division in the office of the Tennessee Attorney General. Horton is a graduate of the University of Tennessee College of Law in Knoxville.
Retired NASA astronaut Scott to Speak at Rhodes College on Friday
At Rhodes College on Friday (Feb. 21), retired NASA astronaut Winston Scott will present “Destination Outer Space.” Free and open to the public, the talk begins at 7:30 p.m. in the McCallum Ballroom of the Bryan Campus Life Center on campus. Scott’s journey to the stars is a testament to the power of perseverance and vision. Winston Raised in Miami, his largely Scott segregated education provided little access to resources, but his own determination combined with the dedication of his teachers set him on an inspiring path of achievement. Scott was selected by NASA and reported to the Johnson Space Center in August 1992. He served as a mission specialist on STS-72 in 1996 and STS-87 in 1997, and has logged a total of 24 days in space, including three spacewalks. He retired from NASA and the U.S. Navy at the end of July 1999, and he currently is the Dean of the College of Aeronautics at Florida Institute of Technology in Melbourne, Fla. His talk at Rhodes is part of the 2014 Society of Physics Students Zone 10 Meeting and has been extended to the Memphis community. For more information, contact the Rhodes Department of Physics at 901-843-3918.
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February 20 - 26, 2014
BOOK REVIEW
Journey to preserve Owen College legacy is a mission accomplished Dr. Miriam DeCosta Willis and other Owen College alumni involved with “The Legacy of Owen College” will be on hand for a book signing at the Dorothy Harris Lounge in the Hanson Student Center at The LeMoyne-Owen College at 804 Walker Ave. on Saturday (Feb. 22) from 2 to 4 p.m. Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Wiley Henry
Preserving the legacy of an educational institution that thrived for 14 years in the South Memphis community and produced future leaders is worth the nearly two years that it took for a group of former students, faculty and staff to publish their efforts in a book entitled “The Legacy of Owen College: 1954-1968.” Produced by GrantHouse Publishers, The Owen College History Committee began its quest in April 2012 to save and secure the legacy of Owen College. Throughout its years of operation, the college enrolled nearly 4,000 men and women. Many of them would go on to succeed in life and add their accomplishments to the annals of Memphis and Shelby County as well. The project was a labor of love for the approximately 20-member committee that set out to preserve the legacy of the accredited two-year liberal arts college for African Americans before a funding shortage forced a merger in 1968 with LeMoyne College to form The LeMoyne-Owen College. Owen College is indeed preserved in the book’s compilation of essays, editorials and news stories, reflections and profiles and rare photographs of students and their activities in and around the 12-acre campus that originally was located at the corner of Vance Avenue and South Orleans Street. Aficionados, historians, history buffs or those who simply were too young to grasp the historic significance of Owen College would find this book to be a good read, a wellspring of information, and a keepsake for future generations. For those who matriculated and graduated from Owen College, the book evokes fond memories. It also serves as tangible evidence that the college that the Tennessee Baptist Missionary and Educational Convention founded in 1946 stood at the forefront of higher education and conferred associates degrees on those with a hankering to succeed.
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“The Legacy of Owen College” is a reference book per se that whets the appetite of the person searching for trustworthy information that is not as easy to find in the public domain. It is a testament to the committee’s hard work and their perseverance to locate and preserve information that otherwise would have gone unnoticed in personal and private collections. The book cover is symmetrically designed with simple typography, a black and white photograph of Owen College’s administration building and a circular emblem encasing the college’s name and the year 1954, all formatted on a white background. Inside is a valid record of people, events, activities, annuals, and personal accounts of college life within the periphery of a community that embraced the college’s mission to provide a Christian education and career opportunities for African Americans. For those interested in the preservation of history for history sake, the book is age-appropriate and should be offered to students in public schools who may or may not be aware that Owen College existed as an independent institution separate from LeMoyne College. Named in honor of Samuel Augustus Owen Sr., the president of TBMEC and founder of Owen College, the book is a worthy investment. The contents therein trace the college’s history from inception to the acquisition of its property by the Memphis Board of Education in 1968. It deserves ample shelf space alongside other historic annals and should be utilized as a teaching tool. Beatrice Williams summed up her feelings for Owen College in her final editor’s message in the college’s 1968 yearbook, “The Green Hornet”: “Without the cooperation of faculty, staff, students, other members of the Owen family, and local and out-of-town contributions, the story of this great institution would be only half told.” “The Legacy of Owen College: 19541968” By The Owen College History Committee 226 pp. GrantHouse Publishers $20.00
SCS students ready for Kids Kan food drive
Shelby County Schools will team with the MidSouth Food Bank to fight hunger during the 2014 Kids Kan food drive. During the week of Feb. 2428, elementary, middle and high school students will be collecting non-perishable food items in their homerooms. Last year, 162 schools across the district collected more than 200,000 pounds of food and $31,000 for families in need. The Kids Kan campaign, sponsored by Kroger, helps restock the shelves at the Mid-South Food Bank. Nearly 407,000 people struggle with hunger in the Mid-South each day; one-third of them are children. The donations to the Mid-South Food Bank serve a network of more than 300 charitable programs in west Tennessee, north Mississippi and east Arkansas. The winning classroom at each school will receive gift cards from Kroger. Awards will also be given to the top performing elementary, middle and high school. For more information, contact David Stephens, director of community relations for Mid-South Food Bank, at 901-497-1153. BRIEFLY: Memphis Light, Gas and Water Division’s South (Lamar) Community Office, 2935 Lamar Ave., closed for remodeling on Wednesday (Feb. 19th) and will reopen in about 45 days. The Whitehaven Community Office, 1111 East Shelby Drive, was set to re-open on Thursday (Feb. 20th). Customers can also visit MLGW’s other Community offices: Main Office, 245 South Main Street; North Community Office, 2424 Summer Ave.; or Millington Community Office, 5131 Navy Rd. BRIEFLY: The Ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., – Educational Advancement Foundation – Beta Epsilon Omega Chapter will hold its Third Annual Scholarship Breakfast on Saturday (Feb. 22nd) from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church at 70 N. Bellevue Blvd. Clemont “Clem” L. Johnson, president HR Business Solutions, an HR consulting company, is the keynote speaker. This years’ theme is “Awesome Support for Education: The AKA Way.” For more information, contact Raygene C. Paige at 901-754-6004. BRIEFLY: UT Health Science Center’s College of Allied Health Sciences Open House will be Feb. 21 from 2 to 4 p.m., Student-Alumni Center, 800 Madison. Open to anyone interested in learning about careers in the allied health professions, including dental hygiene, physician assistant, physical and occupational therapy, clinical laboratory science, health informatics, and cytotechnology/histotechnology. BRIEFLY: A Lunch and Learn for Non Profits workship will be held at noon Saturday (Feb. 22) at the TFC Media Studio Meeting Room at 2988 Austin Peay. Cost: $25 per person. For more information, contact 901-281-6337. BRIEFLY: Naomi Earp of the Workforce Investment Network will be the guest speaker during the 2014 Annual Suit & Salad Luncheon at 11 a.m. on March 1st at Hilton Memphis at 939 Ridge Lake Blvd. Tickets for the Dress for Success fundraising luncheon are $50.
‘It all started on a bus’…
After 49 years on the transit line, William Hudson Jr. stepped off as MATA president and general manager on Dec. 31. He and his wife, Gracie, were center stage last Saturday (Feb. 15th) during a retirement celebration at Hudson Hall in Central Station. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)
From my view…
Brooke Thomas, an anchor and reporter for Fox 13ʼs “Good Morning Memphis!” focused on youth last Sunday (Feb. 23rd) during her talk at New Macedonia Baptist Churchʼs Anniversary service. The host pastor is Bishop K.D. Johnson. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)
Styling…
The Rev. Melvin D. Watkins Jr., copastor of Mt. Vernon Baptist Church-Westwood, escorts his wife, Loie, during a fashion show hosted by the churchʼs Usher Board last Saturday (Feb. 22nd). (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)
Page 12
Legal Notices
REQUEST FOR BIDS Legal Notice MSCAA Project Number 13-1369-01 OPERATIONS OFFICE RELOCATION
Sealed bids for the Operations Office Relocation, MSCAA Project No. 13-1369-01, will be received by the Staff Services Division of the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority (MSCAA), 3505 Tchulahoma Road, Memphis, Tennessee 38118, until 2:00 PM local time on Tuesday, March 18, 2014, and immediately thereafter will be opened and publicly read. No bids will be accepted after the stated deadline. BIDS WILL NOT BE RECEIVED AT ANY OTHER LOCATION.
The scope of work generally consists of an interior office space build out. Work efforts include, but are not necessarily limited to, interior upgrades such as sheetrock installation, ceiling installation, HVAC/plumbing/electrical modifications, painting, floor covering, low voltage cabling and security/surveillance equipment installation and other efforts as required. Maintenance of airport site security, in accordance with MSCAA and FAA regulations, are specifically included.
Bid Documents may be obtained and found on our website (www.mscaa.com) on or after Wednesday, February 19, 2014. Bid documents may be examined at the following locations in Memphis, TN: Builderʼs Exchange Plans Room, McGrawHill Construction Dodge Plans Room, Memphis Area Minority Contractorʼs Association, Mid-South Minority Business Council, National Association of Minority Contractors, and Renaissance Business Center Bid Room.
All Respondents are hereby notified that all updates, addenda and additional information, if any, shall be posted to the MSCAA website (www.mscaa.com) and Respondents are responsible for checking the MSCAA website up to the time of the Bid submission deadline. A MANDATORY Pre-Bid Meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 5, 2014 at 1:00 PM local time at the Airport Project Center, located at 4225 Airways Blvd, Memphis, TN.
The MSCAA hereby notifies that it will review and award contracts in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C. 2000d to 2000d-4a and Title 49, Part 26, Code of Federal Regulations, Department of Transportation, Subtitle A, Office of the Secretary, Part 21, Nondiscrimination in Federally Assisted Programs of the Department of Transportation issued pursuant to such Act. MSCAA further notifies all Bidders that it will affirmatively ensure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, Disadvantaged, Business Enterprises (DBE) will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of age, race, sex, color, national origin, creed, religion, sexual orientation or disability in its hiring and employment practices, or in admission to, access to, or operation of its programs, services and activities. The DBE participation goal for this contract is 25% in accordance with the requirements of the
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Contract Documents. Therefore, the only participation that will be counted toward meeting this goal will be participation by certified DBEs, the owners of which have been certified as having a personal net worth less than $1.32 million.
Each bid must be by a contractor licensed in Tennessee and accompanied by a 5% Bid Guarantee. In accordance with TCA §62-6-119, the Bidder, and where applicable, one contractor/subcontractor performing electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, or masonry work must have its license number, expiration date of the license, and that part of the classification applying to the bid shown on the outside of the envelope containing the bid. Failure to supply all information on the outside of the envelope will result in the return of the unopened envelope to the Bidder. The successful Bidder will be required to execute a Performance Bond and a Payment Bond, each in the amount of 100% of the Contract Price. Liquidated damages for delay in contract completion shall be as stated in the Contract Documents. No Bidder may withdraw an opened bid within the defined period following actual bid opening without MSCAAʼs consent. Award will be made to the lowest and best responsible qualified Bidder, if any contract is awarded, based on the best combination of base bid plus individual add-alternates deemed, at MSCAAʼs sole discretion, to be in MSCAAʼs best interests regardless of whether the individual add-alternates are ultimately constructed or not constructed. MSCAA reserves the right to reject any or all bids in whole or in part and to waive any informalities, technicalities or omissions therein. MSCAA also reserves the right to reject bids from bidders that have pending litigation or claims with MSCAA, or if such bid includes a proposed subcontractor or supplier that has pending litigation or claims with MSCAA, if MSCAA determines, in its sole discretion, such litigation or claims may adversely affect the ability of the parties to work efficiently and effectively under this contract, or for any other reason as determined by MSCAA. Any such bid will be returned to the bidder. See
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Instructions to Bidders in the project specifications for a further description of this and other reservations of rights. MEMPHIS-SHELBY COUNTY AIRPORT AUTHORITY By Scott A. Brockman, President & CEO ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
Project No. CDBG Contract No. 34918 Town of Collierville, TN(Owner)
Separate sealed bids for TC2014-06 “2012-D CDBG for Drainage Improvements” will be received by the office of the Director of General Services at the Town of Collierville, 500 Poplar View Parkway, Collierville, TN 38017 until 2:00:00 P.M., CT on March 11, 2014 and then at said office publicly opened and read aloud.
A Pre-Bid meeting will be held at Town of Collierville, 500 Poplar View Parkway, Collierville, TN 38017 at 10:00 A.M., C.T. on March 4, 2014.
The Information for Bidderʼs, Form of Bid, Form of Contract, Plans, Specifications, and Forms of Bid Bond, Performance and Payment Bond, and other contract documents may be examined at the following: • Town of Collierville – 500 Poplar View Parkway, Collierville, TN 38017. • Builderʼs Exchange- 642 South Cooper, Memphis, TN 38104. • http://www.tn.gov/businessopp/procure_opp.html - The Governorʼs Office of Business Diversity. • West Tennessee Plans Room - 439 Airways Blvd., Jackson, TN 38301.
Complete bid packages are available from the Purchasing Division, 500 Poplar View Parkway, Collierville, TN 38017, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; by facsimile request at 901-457-2258; or by email request at tocpurchasing@ci.collierville.tn.us. The following information must be included in the request for a copy
of any bid: *Vendor Number, Contact Name, Company Name and Address, Telephone and Fax Number, Bid Number, and Bid Due Date.
A non-refundable fee of $150.00 must be paid per set of said documents, plans and specifications. The owner reserves the right to waive any informalities or to reject any or all bids. The Board of Mayor and Aldermen of the Town is the final authority and shall have the right to reject any single BID or all BIDS submitted. Each bidder must deposit with his bid, security in the amount, form and subject to the conditions provided in the Information for Bidders.
All bidders must be licensed General Contractors as required by the Contractorʼs Licensing Act of 1994 of the General Assembly of the State of Tennessee, and qualified for the type of construction being bid upon. Attention of bidders is particularly called to the requirements as to conditions of employment to be observed and minimum wage rates to be paid under the contract, Section 3, Segregated Facility, Section 109 and E.O. 11246.
No bidder may withdraw his bid within 60 days after the actual date of the opening thereof.
Director of General Services Town of Collierville, Tennessee
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
Project No. 34918 Owner: Town of Collierville, TN
Separate sealed bids for Town of Collierville 2012-D CDBG for Drainage Improvements (Norfolk Southern Railroad Certified Contractor) will be received by Norfolk Southern Railroad at the Town of Collierville, 500 Poplar View Parkway, Collierville, TN 38017 until 3:00 P.M., C.T. on March 11, 2014 and then at said office publicly opened and read aloud.
The owner reserves the right to waive any informalities or to reject any or all bids. Each bidder must deposit with his bid, security in the amount, form and subject to the conditions provided in the Information for Bidders.
All bidders must be licensed General Contractors as required by the Contractorʼs Licensing Act of 1994 of the General Assembly of the State of Tennessee, and qualified for the type of construction being bid upon. Attention of bidders is particularly called to the requirements as to conditions of employment to be observed and minimum wage rates to be paid under the contract, Section 3, Segregated Facility, Section 109 and E.O. 11246.
No bidder may withdraw his bid within 60 days after the actual date of the opening thereof. February 20, 2014
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A Mandatory Pre-Bid meeting will be held at Town of Collierville, 500 Poplar View Parkway, Collierville, TN 38017 at 9:00 A.M., C.T. on March 4, 2014.
The Information for Bidderʼs, Form of Bid, Form of Contract, Plans, Specifications, and Forms of Bid Bond, Performance and Payment Bond, and other contract documents may be examined at the following: 1) Town of Collierville – 500 Poplar View Parkway, Collierville, TN 38017. 2) Builderʼs Exchange- 642 South Cooper, Memphis, TN 38104. 3) The Governorʼs Office of Business Diversity, http://www.tn.gov/businessopp/procure_opp.html 4) West Tennessee Plans Room - 439 Airways Blvd., Jackson, TN 38301.
Copies may be obtained at the office of A2H, Inc. located at 3009 Davies Plantation Road, Lakeland, TN 38002 upon payment of $150.00 (Non-Refundable) for each set.
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SPORTS Tri-State Defender, Thursday, February 20 - 26, 2014, Page 13
Fort Lauderdale home for black tennis NNPA News Service
by Kitty Oliver FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Greater Fort Lauderdale is also making history by preserving it. Plans are underway for the American Tennis Association, the country’s oldest organization for Black tennis players, to establish a permanent home for recreational tennis and the training of future professional players in Greater Fort Lauderdale. The project will create a Black Tennis Hall of Fame to showcase historical memorabilia on the contributions of African Americans to the sport – items that have only been seen so far in a limited way in occasional traveling exhibitions. The ATA, founded in 1916 in Washington, D.C., created a circuit of clubs and tournaments for black tennis players who were excluded from the U.S. Lawn Tennis Association. Since then, the mostly-volunteer organization, now based in Maryland, has continued its focus: “challenging the racial barriers of segregation, cultivating promising young talent, providing a vital social network for African American professionals (notables include Althea Gibson and Arthur Ashe), and influencing younger black stars such as the Williams sisters and Sloane Stephens.” As a first step, the ATA has moved its annual National Championship Tournament to Greater Fort Lauderdale using four professional tennis venues throughout the county. More than 3,000 amateur adult and youth tennis players and their families are expected again this year in late July and early August for the 97th annual event. According to Philadelphia oral surgeon Dr. Franklyn Scott, president of the ATA, “There is so much history of African Americans in tennis but it has only been told sporadically, and a lot of people have benefited from this history. The goal is to bring African American tennis enthusiasts and players together on a regular basis to enjoy the sport in the top vacation destination for African American travelers in the U.S.” VStarr Interiors, a firm co-owned by tennis great Serena Williams, has created a design for the headquarters. Sites are being considered in Fort Lauderdale’s historic Black Sistrunk community as part of a larger economic development effort where tourism is playing a big part.
(Special to the NNPA from theWestside Gazette.)
A hot-shooting Mike Miller drills a three pointer over Tim Hardaway Jr. of the Knicks. (Photos: Warren Roseborough)
Grizz pull out win over Carmelo & Knicks Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Kelley Evans
Mike Conley drives to the basket and is fouled by Pablo Prigioni of the Knicks.
Saluqis roll on with ranking in tow
The Saluqis of Southwest Tennessee Community College are ranked 23rd in the latest NJCAA (National Junior College Athletic Association) Division 1 basketball poll and are now 19-3, including 12-3 in the TCCAA (Tennessee Community College Athletic Association). Andre Brown scored 19 Andre points and grabbed 10 reBrown bounds to lead the Southwest men’s basketball team to a 90-85 win over Motlow State last Saturday (Feb. 15th) at the Verties Sails Gymnasium. It was Brown’s season-high in points and his third double-double of the season. Twelve players got in the scoring column for the Saluqis, with Otis Devine and Jerron Washington the only other two double figure scorers with 10 points each. The Saluqis will travel to East Tennessee this weekend for conference games at Chattanooga State on Feb. 21 and Cleveland State on Feb. 22.
A dejected Carmelo Anthony leaves the court after the Knicks lost to the Grizzlies.
The post All-Star game run of the NBA season has started and the Memphis Grizzlies made a step in the right direction pulling out a win against the New York Knicks on Tuesday (Feb. 18th) at FedExForum. A lift from Mike Conley and a rain of three-pointers from Mike Miller kept the Grizzlies afloat, withstanding New York’s second-half surge en route to a 98-93 victory. Conley had missed the previous seven games with a sprained right ankle. Finishing with 22 points, he was 6-of-15 from the field and scored a season high 10-of-12 from the free throw line. He dropped nine points during the last five minutes of play. “The plays that Mike Conley made, he just gutted it out,” said Grizzlies head coach Dave Joerger. “He was fantastic down the stretch and made big plays.” Miller poured in a season-high 19 points with five three-pointers. “I thought his (Miller’s) aggressiveness early in the game was huge,” Joerger said. Memphis swept the three-game season series against New York. The Knicks have not defeated the Grizzlies since March 9, 2011. The Grizzlies outscored the Knicks in the paint 42-32 and scored 20 points on 12 New York turnovers. The Grizzlies got a strong start, on top by five (22-17) at the end of the first quarter and by 13 (50-37) at the halftime break. New York made adjustments, erasing much of the deficit and trailing by only two (6664) at the end the third quarter. The Knicks kept pushing in the final frame, and with 2:32 left to play, Memphis trailed 90-85. Then came a 13-13 run to victory by the Grizzlies. “The first half we made shots,” Joerger said. “They didn’t make shots. First game out of the break is kind of funky. It’s a tough team to play anytime, but the first game after the break is really difficult.” The Knicks’ Tim Hardaway Jr. led the all scorers with 23 points off the bench. “They did a great job of switching and not getting separation,” Hardaway said. “They did a great job of staying attached. They were doing some things out there that we walked through in practice, but they were just executing it very well.” Knicks All-Star forward Carmelo Anthony notched his 19th double-double, with 22 points and 11 rebounds. “Very disappointed,” Anthony said of the loss. “To be up, to fight our way back, to go up five, six a couple of minutes on the clock and kind of give it away. I’m very disappointed but we have to put this one behind us to and get ready for tomorrow. “We adjusted offensively,” said Anthony. “Defensively we made some adjustments and that’s kind of what got us back into the game. Coming down the stretch we missed some wide-open shots. They capitalized on some turnovers that we made down the stretch.” Notes: Grizzlies guard Tony Allen is still out with an injury. The Grizzlies will face the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday at FedExForum.
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February 20 - 26, 2014
Tri-State Defender