3 21 2012

VOL. 61, No. 12

One Section/Inserts

March 15 - 21, 2012

www.tristatedefender.com

75 Cents

Voter ID law: To repeal or not to repeal Special to the Tri-State Defender

by Tony Jones

State Democratic Party leaders bent on reversing Tennessee’s three and one half month old Voter Photo ID law see more than a glimmer of hope for its repeal but say the public needs to get involved to reel in success.

The Tennessee State House version of a repeal bill made it out of the State

and Local Government subcommittee on a 5-3 vote on Wednesday (March 14), setting up a likely date with the full committee next week. State Rep. Mike Turner (D-Nashville), the bill’s House sponsor, told The New TriState Defender that there is a real chance the Republican-dominated legislature could reverse itself.

“There is significant bipartisan support building in the direction to reverse the law as it stands,” said

Turner. “What we are learning is that senior citizens, poor people, people in rural areas, handicapped people and more are being hurt and are going to be hurt in their attempts to exercise their rights, and I think the Republicans are beginning to hear the outcry.

I think people are beginning to vote their conscious on the bill.”

Still, Turner advises caution. “That does not mean it’s a done deal, but I do believe we have a real strong, sin-

Why every vote doesn’t count.

See opinion, page 4.

cere chance and we are going to be working hard day and night try to reverse this law.”

Even more caution is advanced by others who – although supportive of the law’s repeal – are concerned that those who need to get government-issued photo identification to be eligi-

ble to vote may delay, thinking the law will be stricken.

Voter photo ID legislation and laws are fueling battles on multiple fronts.

The U.S. Justice Department this week blocked a new law in Texas requiring voters to show a photo ID. The move was anchored in the Justice Department’s contention that the law SEE ID ON PAGE 2

Tyler Perry

Madea man Tyler Perry gets Orpheum starring role Special to the Tri-State Defender

by Tony Jones

You can just hear Madea now: “Go ‘head boy!”

Tyler Perry – an international success as an actor, director, screen and playwright, producer, author, and songwriter – will be given a star on the Orpheum Theatre’s Sidewalk of Stars in front of the Orpheum Thursday (March 15) at 2 p.m.

And unless you’ve been frozen in time for the last 10-plus years, you know that much of Perry’s success is linked to his signature character “Madea,” a wise-cracking, gun-toting grandmother. Madea is center stage in a series of plays – “Madea’s Family Reunion” (2002), “Madea’s Class Reunion” (2003) and “Madea Goes To Jail” (2005) – and set the stage for Perry’s jump to the big screen.

The star unveiling is a promotion (As if any of Perry’s shows need additional promotion) for his latest play, “Madea Gets a Job,” running March 15-18. Madea couldn’t be boring if she was asleep. Yes, that’s my opinion.

While Perry has his critics (Read: Spike Lee will not attend the star unveiling), there are many others of us who see in Perry’s work a mastery of common black folks’ thoughts, perceptions, hopes, dreams, fears, eccentricities, talents, stupidities, beauties, faith and joys – all wrapped up in characters like Madea and her cohorts.

I dare anybody not to laugh while watching the scene in “Madea’s Family Reunion” when Jackie (D’Atra Hicks) and her husband Kevin (Terrell Philips) break it down! And there are dozens more Madea moments like that one that are cherished over and over in homes throughout the world.

Perry’s name will be joining Broadway greats such as Yul Brynner, Carol Channing, Robert Goulet and Cary Grant on the sidewalk in front of the Orpheum.

MEMPHIS WEEKEND

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

H- 8 2o - L - 6 2o I so . T-St orms

H- 7 9o - L - 6 2o P a r tl y C l ou dy

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REGIONAL TEMPS LITTLE ROCK NASHVILLE JACKSON, MS

Friday H-82 L-62 H-79 L-57 H-85 L-60

Saturday H-81 L-61 H-79 L-58 H-81 L-60

Sunday H-79 L-61 H-81 L-59 H-82 L-59

Beverly Barbee is treated to a shampoo at Kingdom Kreations Exclusive Day Spa and Salon. (Photo by Shirley Jackson)

Beauty reaches Beale Street ʻWe are the first hair salon to be on Beale Street.ʼ Special to the Tri-State Defender

by Carlee McCullough As a small child, hair infatuated Stephanie Chatman, owner and CEO of Kingdom Kreations Exclusive Day Spa and Salon, also known as KKSpalons. She long has had a passion to make everyone beautiful.

So it was not surprising that when her tenth grade year approached, she enrolled in a

Masked misery…

The Grizz had the Lakers in a deep hole at the FedExForum on Tuesday night, but Kobe Bryant and L.A. dug their way out in a doubleovertime thriller. See Sports, page 16. (Photo by Warren Roseborough)

Memphis City Schools-sponsored technical program geared toward cosmetology. Licensed in 1992, Chatman began her climb up the entrepreneurial mountain in the beauty arena. After years of preparing herself to achieve her dream, she now is poised to create as many as 13 new jobs downtown.

But as is often the case on the path to success, a curve ball entered the picture. On the eve of completing the paperwork for a loan, Chatman was informed that due to cutbacks in staffing at a governmental agency there was no one who could continue to assist her with the paperwork. Faced with the hurdles

that most entrepreneurs experience at least once or twice in their businesses, she is undeterred and absolutely determined to come up with the remaining capital.

All business start-ups need some initial source of financing. Kingdom Kreations Exclusive Day Spa and Salon is no different.

Chatman and her staff are reaching out to the Memphis community that they have been a part of since birth, asking others to invest back into local business.

In the quest to fulfill the long-held dream of SEE SPA ON PAGE 2

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

Living life with a whole heart Special to the Tri-State Defender

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell “I was in high school that day my mother went under the knife for open-heart surgery. I remember praying so hard for the Lord to keep my mother through the procedure. I knew she was not well, but it was only after the surgery when I saw the staples in her chest and tubes down her throat that I realized how close we had actually come to losing her.

It was sobering, but God blessed her, and she is with us today. We are so grateful…”

– Pastor Quinton Barlow – Faith Covenant Church Nov. 18, 1998, was a day, pretty much like any other day in the life of Linda Chism, a registered nurse at The Regional Medical Center at

Memphis. She was a 41-year-old medical professional working on her doctorate – ambitious, filled with vision, and seemingly a picture of health.

She had been given a clean bill of health after a thorough physical exam four weeks prior. Nothing could have been further from the truth.

“After arriving home from work, I began to feel sick, extremely sick to my stomach,” said Dr. Chism. “As the night wore on I got progressively worse. I was there at home with my son, Quinton, and one single symptom may have saved my life that night – I was vomiting violently, and there was just no relief from that sickness in my stomach. I knew something was very wrong. What, exactly, I had no idea. Emergency

- INSIDE -

SEE HEART ON PAGE 2

• Wrap your mind around this – Brain Awareness Night. See page 3.

• Don’t hate on the weight-loss pitchmen. See Religion, page 10.

• Oprah nets the Houstonfamily scoop. See Nation, page 6.

• For a fountain of youth, eat more fruit and vegetables. See Health, page 14.

NEWS

Page 2

HEART

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

Kingdom Kreations Day Spa owner Stephanie Chatman styles a clientʼs hair. (Photos by Shirley Jackson)

SPA

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

owning her salon, she forged a relationship with Kelly Penwell of The Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the FedEx Institute of Technology, which is a program created by the University of Memphis. The Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation offers solid advice, resources and direction for startup businesses. Penwell and the center pointed Chatman in the direction of Patrice Harris of the Renaissance Business Center (555 Beale), which offers loans to small businesses. The direction and advice offered by the two organizations covers marketing and business plan development. They point those in need in the right direction to accomplish defined goals, which is how Chatman developed a creative approach to raising capital in lieu of loans from traditional funding sources.

With banks slow to lend to start ups, the economy not as strong as it has been in the past, and various government programs being under-funded, Chatman came with a novel approach to infuse capital in her business. Those interested in supporting her dream of an ultra chic styling studio can do so for a 10 percent return within one year on funds provided to her. Additionally those that provide financing exceeding $1,000 will receive free salon services equivalent to their funds in addition to the 10 percent interest.

To further explain her business model and how she intends to use the funds acquired, Chatman and her staff will host a wine and cheese event on March 15 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 pm.

Equipped with a new approach, Chatman not only has

ID

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

would hurt Hispanic residents disproportionately. The Justice Department made a similar move against South Carolina’s new law in December. In that instance, the DOJ concluded that the law discriminated against minority voters.

Critics say such laws, which are in play in 16 states, harken back to the pre-civil rights era of poll taxes and other blatantly racist mechanisms.

NAACP President and CEO Benjamin Jealous is expected to denounce such laws when he speaks before the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva next week.

“Let’s face it,” said District 88 State Rep. Larry J. Miller of Memphis. “This is not just a local issue. These laws were created and are being put through by the Republican Party to try to cut down on minority support for the president in the upcoming election.

Tri-State Defender

March 15 - 21, 2012

Eight-year-old Hannah Chatman and Erin Luster share a book while waiting for hair to dry.

a unique business model but also a unique address: 203 Beale Street, Suite 201 (right above Alfred’s). While Beale Street is better known for the “Memphis Sound” and partying energy, she has the desire to “enhance what is already a work of art” by offering a full array of spa and salon services from tranquil massage therapy to hair and natural nail services.

“Relocating to Beale Street is a no brainer,” said Chatman.

“You don’t have to market the street because Beale sells itself.”

Chatman was patient and methodical in her desire to be on Beale Street. Monitoring the location for three years finally paid off when a vacancy opened up. During that waiting period she served as a cosmetology instructor in the Shelby County Schools system, Memphis City School and for Paul Mitchell Salons.

“We are the first hair salon to be on Beale Street,” she said.

Her dedication to reducing the carbon footprint of salons is evidenced by offering clients green products supplied excluThat’s why the photo ID laws were created and that’s why it must be stopped.

“The ones pushing it want to fall back on language blaming it on illegal immigration and other false traps, but have you ever seen an illegal immigrant trying to vote. This is strictly about trying to stop (President) Obama.”

Dist. 92 State Rep. G. A. Hardaway (D-Memphis) said the Voter Photo ID law may be revealing something its proponents may have overlooked.

“Democrats and the black community are not the only ones that have poor people, elderly and others that are being affected by this law. As a matter of fact the GOP represents more people in rural areas overall and it’s causing harm to their own constituents,” Hardaway said.

“More and more of the Republicans are listening to their constituency on this issue, and a lot of others, and realizing that it’s not good for any of us, this state and this nation to keep expending so much en-

sively from Aveda. According to Aveda, by applying “the art and science of pure flower and plant essences” to its products, Aveda salons “set an example for environmental leadership and responsibility.”

The full day salon offers massages, nail and hair services, facials, waxing and threading. In an effort to promote a healthy way of living, which is the Aveda way, they do not do acrylic nails. Instead, they offer Shellac, which is gel polish and has the appearance of acrylic.

Chatman also has the capability to offer VIP service, which includes wine or champagne amongst other offerings.

She has sought to create an atmosphere of fashionable décor and ambiance created by Godias Interiors coupled with aromatherapy.

At the end of day, Chatman wants her Kingdom Kreations Salon clients comfortable and relaxed.

(Appointments can be scheduled by phone at 901-590-2136 or via www.KKspalons.com.) ergy trying to unravel 50 years of civic progress.”

Shelby County GOP Chairman Justin Joy shared his thoughts about the new Tennessee law in an exchange with the TSD last month.

“Particularly for the elections later this year in August and November, I don’t believe that anyone, and especially anyone who reads the newspaper, is going to have a reasonable excuse that they did not know about the new law or that they haven’t had an opportunity to comply with the law,” Joy said.

“No election is perfect but I think we all want a system where everyone’s vote counts and no one’s vote is canceled out by someone who should not be voting. We have to show photo identification to prove who we are for all kinds of things in today’s world, many of which are not nearly as important as voting,” he said.

“By requiring that people prove their identity with a photo ID card in order to vote, I think we are increasing confidence in the election system.”

bypass surgery was necessary to save my life.”

Many younger and middleaged women are less likely than men to get immediate treatment when having a heart attack, and they have a higher rate than men of in-hospital death from a heart attack.

Those results are reported in a new study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association and conducted by the Watson Clinic of the Lakeland Florida Regional Medical C e n t e r.

Both the Linda delay in Chism treatment and poorer survival outcomes are, in part, because fewer women experience the telltale symptoms of chest pains during a heart attack, researchers concluded.

Chism is one of the fortunate ones.

“Not only was I an RN, but my specialty was cardiology,” she said. “If I had no clue that my heart was failing, what about other women who don’t have the benefit of medical expertise? It was apparent that more accurate indicators of heart disease in women were needed.”

The absence of chest pain delays accurate diagnosis and immediate treatment in women, said Chism.

“Time is not our friend,” Chism said. “Most men experience acute, stabbing pain in the chest. Early detection results in decisive, effective treatment. They are three times more likely to survive a heart attack than women. We must be more diligent in guarding our hearts. Our lives literally depend on it.”

Fourteen years heart-healthy

Fourteen years ago, the old Linda Chism died, and a new one emerged. You might say that Chism is 14 years old in “healthy heart years.”

The experience changed not only her perspective of heart disease in women, but a sense of purpose and destiny

Women and heart disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women worldwide Around the same number of women and men die each year of heart disease in the U.S. Unfortunately, many women did not perceive themselves to be at risk for heart disease.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women of most racial/ethnic groups in the United States, including African Americans, American Indians or Alaska Natives, Hispanics, and whites.

Almost two-thirds of the women who die suddenly of coronary heart disease have no previous symptoms. Even if you have no symptoms, you may still be at risk for heart disease.

Heart disease risk factors

Nine out of 10 heart disease patients have at least one risk factor. These medical conditions and lifestyle choices include: • High cholesterol high blood pressure • Diabetes • Cigarette smoking • Overweight and obesity inspired a dissertation lauded

by Chism’s University of Memphis professors.

Chism wrote: “The relationship between knowledge and health outcomes is well established: the more knowledgeable an individual concerning risks, symptoms, and preventive measures the better…”

Translation?

Lack of knowledge and the tools to develop heart-healthy lifestyles has elevated heart disease to the leading cause of death for American women.

African-American women represent a disproportionate percentage of that number.

Chism administered a questionnaire to 500 AfricanAmerican women, gathering some startling realities for her dissertation.

“One of the most significant truths pointed up the tremendous need for educational programs on prevention and what I call atypical risk identifiers of heart disease.”

• Poor diet • Physical inactivity • Alcohol use

Heart attack symptoms

Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts for more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back. The discomfort can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain.

Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.

Shortness of breath.

Often comes along with chest discomfort. But it also can occur before chest discomfort.

Other symptoms. May include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or light-headedness.

If you think that you or someone you know is having a heart attack, you should call 911 immediately.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Dr. Taslim Khattak, a local internist and geriatrics specialist, agrees that widespread education on heart disease is greatly needed among women. Equally important is teaching children healthy habits while they are still very young.

“Youngsters imitate what we do, and it’s up to us to insure that they are taught healthy habits from the very beginning,” said Dr. Khattak.

“When they sit down to eat, a healthy table should be set before them. Women must be taught to shop healthy and to cook healthy.”

Prevention is better than cure, said Khattak.

“If we are to raise a healthier generation, it must begin with us. More fresh fruits and vegetables; less processed meats and fast food. Encourage youngsters to get involved in more physical activity. We have the power to offer the gift of good health to future generations.”

NEWS

Tri-State Defender

Page 3

March 15 - 21, 2012

Wrap your mind around this – Brain Awareness Night Local event part of month-long focus Special to Tri-State Defender

by Tarrin McGhee ( T h e New TriState Defender has partnered with The U r b a n Child Institute to make sure Tarrin every child McGhee has the b e s t chance for optimal brain development during the critical first three years of each child’s life. This is one in a series of stories and columns in our campaign.)

All this month, thoughts of warmer temperatures, daylight savings, and outdoor activities due to the onset of the longawaited spring season will fill the minds of many.

Did you know that there is a national observance devoted specifically to exploring how this mind-shift and thought pattern, among others, evolves?

Around the world, Brain Awareness Month is observed in March to increase understanding of how the brain works, and to explore advancements in the fields of neuroscience and biomedical research.

If you are not a scientist, medical professional or educator, chances are you do not devote much time to learning about the structure and or functions of the nervous system.

However, no matter your profession, it is important to understand the role that the human brain plays in one’s behavioral and cognitive development.

In the Greater Memphis area, The Urban Child Institute is leading the charge to keep local residents informed, and advocates for public policies to combat challenges that can negatively impact early childhood brain development.

To celebrate Brain Awareness Month, The Urban Child Institute will host Brain Awareness Night on March 22 in partnership with the University of Tennessee Health Science Center’s Neuroscience Institute and Department of Preventive Medicine’s CANDLE (conditions affecting neurocognitive development and learning in early childhood) study.

The public event will feature leading experts who will share knowledge and insights into the study of the brain, and explore new initiatives and tools that have been developed to optimize brain development in young children.

Confirmed speakers include Dr. Daniel Goldowitz Ph.D., professor, Medical Genetics and the Centre of Medicine

Girls Inc. nets $80,000 grant for after-school snacks effort

The Tennessee Department of Human Services has awarded Girls Incorporated of Memphis with a grant worth up to $80,000 to provide healthy food to area children through the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP).

Girls Inc. serves hundreds of young girls at its afterschool centers and has received food assistance from the City of Memphis for several years. This grant, which reimburses Girls Inc. for the purchase of nutritious snacks and meals, will ensure the girls have more regular access to healthy options from all food groups.

Deborah Hester-Harrison, the organization’s president and CEO, said, “Because of the additional costs, we have been limited in the types of nutritious snacks we could provide on a regular basis. This grant is a true blessing.”

Girls Inc. expects to impact approximately 500 girls at ten after-school centers during the 2012-13 school year.

and Therapeutics at the University of British Columbia, and Dr. Clyde Hertzman, M.D., director, Human Learning Partnership at the University of British Columbia.

Dr. Goldowitz will discuss how early experiences and environmental influences impact brain structure and functionality in a presentation entitled “The Malleable Brain: In Good Times and Bad.” Dr. Hertzman’s presentation

– “A New Method for Measuring Social and Cognitive Development Leads to New Initiatives for Child Development” – will focus on a new tool that he has developed to provide information on physical, social-emotional, and language-cognitive development of children across populations as it relates to school readiness.

Brain Awareness Night will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at The Urban Child Insti-

tute located at 600 Jefferson Ave, in downtown Memphis.

Guests will have an opportunity to interact with speakers and enjoy refreshments at a reception starting at 5:30 p.m. before presentations from Goldowitz and Hertzman begin at 6:30 p.m.

An open invitation to attend the event has been extended to anyone in the Mid-South area who would like to learn more about how early brain develop-

ment shapes the foundation for learning through childhood and adulthood.

Seating is limited and advance registration is highly encouraged. To RSVP, contact Susan Day at 901-385-4242 or email sday@theurbanchild institute.org.

NOTE: The Urban Child Institute is one of several organizations that participates in the annual worldwide celebration

of Brain Awareness Week, which takes place this year from March 12 – March 18th.

Numerous activities have been held this week in partnership with the Neighborhood Christian Center to educate parents, teachers, and community residents about early childhood brain development. To view the full schedule of Brain Awareness events taking place this month, visit www. theurbanchildinstitute.org.

Page 4

John H. Sengstacke Publisher (1951 - 1997)

The Mid-Southʼs Best Alternative Newspaper

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OPINION

Tri-State Defender

March 15 - 21, 2012

WEB POSTS

• Bernal E. Smith II President / Publisher • Dr. Karanja A. Ajanaku Executive Editor

From our online readers at www.tristatedefender.com

Urgent need to address racial disparities in school Edition: March 8-14, 2012 Racial disparities in school discipline – including suspensions, expulsions and arrests – remain alarmingly high in districts and states across the country, according to Sec. of Education Arne Duncan, who announced the results of the latest Civil Rights Data Collection (CRDC) on Tuesday (March 6).

Why every vote doesn’t count

By now you would think that the Memphis and Shelby County Election Commission would be hypersensitive to the need to have an election that did not have a “glitch”.

After two election challenges (court cases) and several highly publicized, self-admitted mistakes in the last six years, you would think that it would be priority No. 1 to hold an election without another such issue.

Yet on March 6, we had a problem with the absentee vote counting, again.

There is a growing perception that every election in Shelby County has a problem with either the machines going down or the vote count being stopped or the wrong data being entered. At best, it appears that we are unable to have anything but a flawed election, and, that at worse, something wrong or improper is going on.

Confidence in the outcomes of elections has dwindled to the point where a significant number of citizens, especially in the African-American community, don’t believe that the winner was actually the “real” winner. You hear it all the time in statements such as “they’re going to make who they want to win, win.” And the devastating long-term effect of this situation is increased voter apathy.

For the record, 11.8 percent of the eligible voters in Shelby County took the time to exercise their right to vote in the March 6, 2012 Presidential Primary Election. It was an even more dismal turnout in the African-American community. Of the 23,264 Democratic primary voters approximately 70 percent were African American. This would represent just 8 percent of the registered voters who are African American by identification. And if you include the portion of “Other voters” who can be presumed to be African American, only slightly more than 5 percent of all eligible African-American voters took the time to vote in this past election.

The excuses are many. President Obama had no opponent in the Democratic Primary for President; there were only two contested local primary races – General Sessions Court Clerk and Assessor; the new photo ID law stopped some; disappointment in the performance of our African-American elected officials stopped others; “I didn’t even know there was an election” and a general lack of concern stopped yet even more from voting.

The reality is that voter participation among African Americans in Memphis and Shelby County has been decreasing over the last ten years. The question is this: Why and what are we going to do to increase it?

From a historical perspective, the largest turnout of African-American voters was the 1991 Mayoral election of Dr. Willie W. Herenton, where around 66 percent of the eligible voters in the city of Memphis participated. Clearly this was a watershed event, with the African-American community viewing that election as a movement and not just an election.

Subsequently, we have had the election of a majority African-American city council, a majority AfricanAmerican city school board, an African-American county mayor, a near majority on the Shelby County Board of Commissioners, 11 members of the Tennessee General Assembly, and continued AfricanAmerican presence in the city mayor’s office. Yet, in spite of all these political gains and power, a very significant number of African Americans in Memphis view their lives as unaffected by this. They don’t see the correlation between having all these African-American elected officials and improvement in the quality of their lives.

Couple this with the constant negative reporting on African-American elected officials – everything from Tennessee Waltz, to personal problems, to being portrayed as a “racist” if you speak out for African-American causes – and the connection that is so important between elected official and their constituents has been destroyed in the African-American community. What this means is the voter stops trusting the elected official and therefore stops voting.

Even more chilling is the effect that the new Voter ID Law, where a photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or other “approved” identification) is required to vote, has had on the ability to vote. The law will further suppress the vote, whether that was the intention or not. (There is evidence of a national trend to reduce the un-

precedented turnout of those who made possible the election of our President in 2008.)

Many African Americans cannot (because of travel and costs) comply with this requirement. Even Shep more will show Wilbun up at polling places unaware the new re11.8 percent of of quirements and the eligible become frustratvoters in ed when not alShelby County lowed to vote. took the time to They will leave not come exercise their and back. right to vote in Add to this the the March 6, unconstitutional (my view) way 2012 that voters are Presidential purged for not Primary voting. Did you Election. know that if you do not vote in two successive Federal Election cycles, a process will be begun to take you off the voter rolls. If you are then removed from the voter registration list, you must re-register in order to vote. Many in the African-American community move frequently, do not get the mailed notifications and are purged. When many of these wouldbe voters show up to vote and find that they have been purged, they are angry and give up on voting forever.

Then we must factor for the “questionable elections” where events happen to suddenly change the results and persons get elected that do not appear sensitive to the needs and wants of the African-American community. This is demoralizing.

For those who do take the time to vote, there is no longer a certainty that the elections are fair and that the results are accurate. Even the most committed of voters begin to lose interest under these conditions. So, after a period of time – the last 20 years – and enough questionable election outcomes, the turnout gradually decreases to the point where AfricanAmerican office seekers have a hard time winning elections even though African-American registered voters are a majority.

We have become fearful of having too many African-American candidates in races such that a split vote would allow a non-African American to win as was the case in the 9th Congressional District in 2006. Ironically, 20 years ago, ensuring that there was only one consensus AfricanAmerican candidate was the reason for the People’s Convention (which Teddy Withers, Vernon Ash, and I came up with in 1991) that launched Dr. Herenton on his way to becoming the first African American elected mayor of Memphis.

So what can we do?

We must begin to mend the relationship between African-American elected officials and the AfricanAmerican community. This will be a slow process but can be accomplished by having an African-American Community Agenda to hold all accountable to.

Second, we must challenge those laws that suppress our vote, support the lawsuit of former Congressman Lincoln Davis challenging the state law that purges voters, and work with any effort that seeks to protect our voting rights. (Lincoln Davis is a former middle Tennessee Congressman who went to vote, found that he had been purged and is suing over the process.)

Third, the entire election process here in Shelby County (machines, software, voter registration lists, all databases, procedures, and accessibility to tabulation) needs to be independently reviewed, analyzed, and investigated to determine how well it performs and how to stop the “glitches.”

Fourth, we need to have an immediate, intensive effort to re-register the significant number (by some counts as many as 100,000) of purged voters so that they can participate in August and November.

If we begin to do these things, I believe that voter turnout will begin to increase and that African-American political power will as well. Let’s make every vote count!

(Guest columnist Shep Wilbun is a former member of the Shelby County Election Commission.)

Sharp turn for Urban League with ‘Occupy the Vote’ focus

The National Urban League’s annual “State of Black America” report took a sharp turn this year from what it normally considers the most pressing issues facing African Americans.

“More than the economy, more than jobs, more than an excellent education, the single issue that arguably stands to have the greatest impact on the future of Black America in 2012 is the vote,” wrote Marc H. Morial, president and CEO of the National Urban League.

That’s quite a statement from the head of an organization famous for its successful job training programs and close working relationship with Fortune 500 companies.

Morial explained: “As Congress wrestles over measures to create jobs and grow the economy, a multi-state effort is underway to exclude those Americans most profoundly affected by the political process.”

In his chapter on minority voter participation, Rep. Bobby Scott (DVa.), quoted the Supreme Court decision in Wesberry v. Sanders: “No right is more precious in a free country than that of having a voice in the election of those who make the laws under which, as good citizens, we must live. Other rights, even the most basic, are illusory if the right to vote is undermined.”

According to Scott, that’s exactly what is happening in the months leading up to the November presidential election.

“Unfortunately, the existence of the Voting Rights Act does not deter some from becoming creative in their efforts to reduce voter participation,” Scott explained. “One current trend is to require certain voter identification with no or limited exceptions. Currently, 31 states have laws on the books requiring all voters to show forms of identification before voting.”

Of those, 15 require photo identification, such as a driver’s license. The other 16 require certain non-picture IDs. Many, including some AfricanAmerican conservatives, argue that requiring a photo ID has nothing to do with race. However, Scott disagrees.

Quoting a study conducted by the Brenner Citer for Justice at the New York University School of Law, Scott said, “African Americans are more than three times as likely as Caucasians to lack a government-issued photo ID, with one in four African Americans owning no such ID. Moreover, no convincing evidence exists that says that in-person voter fraud, which is the only type of fraud that photo IDs could prevent, is a meaningful problem.”

The effort to suppress the AfricanAmerican vote extends beyond voter IDs. “There is also a trend to limit opportunities for voter registration and early voting. Last year, at least five states enacted laws that reduced their early voting periods. Additionally, several states introduced bills to end same-day voter registration and to restrict voter registration mobilization initiatives.”

Scott noted that in the past, poll taxes, literacy tests and other discriminatory schemes were adopted to suppress voting by people of color.

“The Voting Rights Act dismantled the schemes and barriers to voter participation,” Scott wrote. “As a result, since 1965, the number of black

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

elected officials across the country has increased from just 260 to over 10,500 today. The number of Latinos who now hold public office has increased to 5,850, and the number of minority electGeorge E. ed officials conCurry tinues to rise as well. These numbers demonstrate that the provisions in the Voting Rights Act are effective and also what we stand to lose if voting rights are not protected.”

A key provision of the 1965 Voting Rights Act is Section 5 – which is being challenged by some states and conservative groups – requires states with a documented history of discriminatory voting practices to preclear any changes in their election laws or practices. In December, the Justice Department blocked South Carolina’s newly-passed voter ID law on the grounds that people of color would be adversely impacted.

Scott said he hopes the department will do the same in other states covered by Section 5.

Philadelphia Mayor Michael A. Nutter understands the possible erosion of African-American political power as well as anyone. But he said attention must also be placed on selfdestructive behavior in the AfricanAmerican community.

“Of 316 people who were murdered in Philadelphia last year, nearly 75 percent of those killed were black men,” he wrote in the report. “Around 80 percent of those doing the killing? Black men.” He added, “If the Ku Klux Klan came to Philadelphia and killed almost 300 black men in one year, my city would be on lockdown. The U.S. Justice Department would be called upon.

There would be a federal investigation.

Congress would hold hearings. And yet, I don’t hear a serious, rational, non-hysterical conversation from anyone addressing this epidemic.”

In its report, the National Urban League offered an 8-point education and employment plan that includes: Fair and equitable school funding; Robust early childhood education for each child; Strengthening high schools and reengaging potential dropouts; Placing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) curriculum in all classrooms; Making sure there is a qualified, effective and diverse teaching force; Emphasize strategic workforce development targeting Americans most in need; Develop new job training models with a placement component; Improve and integrate data systems.

Morial feels his best chance of getting that plan adopted will be through what he calls “Occupy the Vote.”

In a speech (March 7) at Howard University in conjunction with the release of the “State of Black America” report, he said, “Not only must we vote, we must resist efforts in 2012 to enact these voter suppression laws.”

(NNPA columnist George E. Curry can be reached through his Web site, www.georgecurry.com. You can also follow him at www.twitter.com/ currygeorge.)

DISTRIBUTION: Tri-State Defender is available at newsstands, street sales, store vendors, mail subscription and honor boxes throughout the Greater Memphis area. No person may, without prior written permission of the Tri-State Defender, reprint any part of or duplicate by electronic device any portion without written permission. Copyright 2012 by Tri-State Defender Publishing, Inc. Permission to Publisher, Tri-State Defender, 203 Beale Street, Suite 200, Memphis, TN. 38103. Back copies can be obtained by calling the Tri-State Defender at (901) 523-1818, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays.

POST: I am an African-American teacher in an inner city school system and I am appalled by this “study.”

Apparently the “Civil Rights Data Collection” has not been in these classrooms that make up African American and Hispanic students. “...unequal discipline practices...”

THIS IS A JOKE!!! The fact is that there are extreme discipline problems amongst black and Hispanic students.

So if the statistics show a higher number or back and Hispanic students being disciplined, it is because they are constantly acting out in class.

What is CRDC trying to prove, that black and Hispanic students are being punished more than other ethnic groups just because?! If this is the case, this is so FARCE! There is a reason why we are seeing more black and Hispanic children “harshly” punished…they are misbehaving at an alarming rate and the parents DO NOTHING about it. I am sick of this crap and sick of people trying to make excuses. Accept some responsibility. Do a study on why parents are not raising their children.

POST: This data is as old as school integration! I retired from Memphis City Schools in 1991 following a 30-year career; our children are not respected by neither European nor African faculty. I witnessed students suspended for such minor incidents as gum chewing. I often witnessed students placed in the hall for minor infractions too. It is tragic that our parents are not on top of what is happening in the schools with their children.

Docorum needs to be overalled in the systems, spelling out under what conditions students should be suspended. So many cases could be handled at the school level by competent administrators. High schools need more male administrators capable of earning the respect of the students. The late James M. Smith was a classic example of a firm yet fair principal. Of course, the late Blair T. Hunt also operated a first-class school at B.T. Washington as the sole administrator. It can be done if competent and concerned superintendents will select qualified, fairminded principals who are equipped with not only brawn but brains!

In-school suspensions should be utilized more so than expulsions or immediate suspensions, especially if weapons and/or violence is not involved. Creative means of punishment should also be applied. All too often the persons in charge have no more sense than the immature students. We have no business transferring our problems to the streets. The kids need to be kept in school rather than sent home unless there is immediate danger involved. Parents should be sent for while the child is detained at the school.

The public needs to demand that the disciplinary methods be overhauled. My career was always in secondary education with the oldest students, yet I maintain that most of the alleged problems can be settled immediately at the school level. We as adults should be the authority on handling students and managing schools.

Then too some of the alleged infractions could be ignored...all too often the kids are definitely looking for attention. Just as they do at home; we do not expel them from home for every act of misbehavior.

I sincerely hope that the public takes a serious look at what is happening in the schools with our children. There are too many questionable incidences that negatively impact our children’s destinies.

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Tri-State Defender

OPINION

March 15 - 21, 2012

FACEBOOK FAN OF THE WEEK Chris Miller

Chris Miller is originally from Memphis but now lives in Rowlett, Texas, where he works as a manager with FedEx. He has been with FedEx since 1985.

A proud graduate of Southside High School, Miller keeps up with what始s going on in Memphis through The New Tri-State Defender and specifically through our facebook page.

Thanks Chris for staying connected to the TSD as a loyal facebook fan!

Page 5

NATION / WORLD

Page 6

Oprah nets the Houstonfamily scoop

(Courtesy Photo)

Shouldering the weight of unemployment

Despite reports of a rebounding economy, joblessness among African Americans – like gas prices – have continued to dip, then escalate.

According to the latest U.S. Labor Department findings, as of February 2012 the unemployment rate for African Americans hovered at 14.1 percent compared to 13.6 for January, and 15.8 percent the month before.

With more than 200,000 jobs created last month by the economy, the fluctuations, which likewise impacted Latino workers, have been difficult to explain.

The jobless rate among African-American teens also increased to 17 percent in February – and overall, the statistics indicate there probably won’t be much change for African American or Latino job seekers as the year progresses.

African-American men appear to have gained jobs since February 2011 in manufacturing, construction and the service sector. And while government employment held steady this month, deep staff cuts in state and local government have hit AfricanAmerican women particularly hard.

Government agencies, a sector that has slashed about 500,000 jobs since February 2010, employed just over onequarter of African-American women before the recession began. That has caused the number of African-American women with jobs to fall, although that number held steady in February, Bill Rodgers, a Rutgers University economist told the “Huffington Post.”

(Special to the NNPA from the Washington Informer)

AFRICA NEWS BRIEFS

Donald Payne, an advocate for democracy in Africa

NNPA News Service

In a 90-minute, special “Oprah’s Next Chapter,” Oprah Winfrey talked with the family of Whitney Houston.

The program, which aired March 11, was the first time the family has publicly spoken about the death of Houston – the music icon who died a month ago the age of 48.

The interview kicked off with Bobbi Kristina talking about how her mother’s spirit has been an unyielding presence in her life since Houston passed away on Feb. 11.

“She’s always with me… I can always feel her with me,” Bobbi Kristina told Winfrey while standing in an area of her Uncle Gary and Aunt Pat’s (Whitney’s brother and sisterin-law/manager) home.

“She always asked me…‘Do you need me?’And I caught myself one day, out of nowhere, I didn’t even know I said it, but…I said, ‘I’ll always need you.’ Her spirit is strong…I feel her pass through me all the time…

“Lights turn on and off and I’m like, ‘Mom, what are you doing?’ I can still sit there and I can still laugh with her…I can still talk to her. I can still feel her saying ‘I got you.’”

According to the family, Bobbi Kristina is residing in the place she called home with her mother, but is supervised by her aunt and uncle.

“I still have all her clothes, everything that she has ever given me,” she said.

She referred to her mother as “an angel” and touched upon the swirling tabloid headlines regarding Houston’s al-

Tri-State Defender

March 15 - 21, 2012

Whitney Houstonʼs daughter, Bobbi Kristina, told Oprah Winfrey that she can feel her mother “pass through me all the time.” (Courtesy photo) leged lifestyle.

“I saw her hurt. I saw her cry,” she said. “(People) don’t know who she was. Everything people are saying about her, all that negativity, it’s garbage.

That’s not my mother.”

The special on OWN also covered Whitney’s ex-husband, Bobby Brown, who had a tumultuous marriage with the singer. While some have accused Brown of introducing Houston to drugs, leading to the singer’s downfall, sister-inlaw Pat Houston said that was untrue. Both Pat Houston and her husband, Gary Houston, had warm words for Brown.

“I loved Bobby Brown. Bobby was a good guy,” said Gary Houston, Whitney’s older brother. “I don’t know how

good they were for each other.”

They also dismissed the notion that the Houston family had asked Brown to leave her funeral service or didn’t want him to come; Brown showed up briefly but left after a dispute over seating.

“Bobby was supposed to be there,” said Gary Houston.

Pat Houston said Bobby Brown and his daughter have a relationship, but indicated they hadn’t spoken since at least Houston’s funeral.

The special ended with Gary Houston giving a musical tribute to his baby sister with a soul-stirring rendition of “I Look to You.” His smooth tenor vocals held up until emotions took over halfway through the song.

New Jersey’s only AfricanAmerican congressman, Donald Payne, was a singular voice for the cause of democracy in Africa, even in the face of opposition by American business interests and other members of Congress.

He visited more African countries than most of his Rep. Donald counterPayne parts.

One tour of 12 days with President Bill Clinton in 1998 led to a new appreciation of African countries advancing toward democracy.

After a short battle with colon cancer, Rep. Payne passed away on Mar. 6. He was 77. The 12-term congressman’s funeral was held in Newark, N.J. on Wednesday (March 14).

Still early in his career, Payne had drafted legislation urging a return to democracy after elections clearly won by

the civilian Moshood Abiola were annulled by Nigeria’s military. The bill won 56 cosponsors but ultimately failed to end the country’s spiral deeper into military rule and corruption.

He was among the first to label the killings in the Darfur region of Sudan as “genocide” and in 2009, on another trip to Africa, he narrowly escaped a mortar attack in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia.

Kenyans riled over CNN’s coverage

Kenyan nationals responded furiously to a recent report on the TV network CNN which described “widespread violence” in the East African country and used an image of a burning Kenyan flag after a single attack at a busy bus station.

The grenade attack on Mar. 10 was deadly, killing six people and injuring over 60 but it was an isolated incident in a country bordering Somalia and dealing with the spillover from an international war in that country.

CNN’s disputed portrayal of Kenya was followed by a YouTube video of a Kenyan caller demanding an official apology from CNN for its sensationalistic reporting. The caller accuses CNN of de-

meaning Africa and Africans.

The station uncharacteristically responded with an apology. “Our reporting on last night was accurate, the banner used in the bulletin was not…Apologies to all,” tweeted David McKenzie, a CNN reporter based in Kenya. The offending news report has reportedly been removed.

Meanwhile, a video called “Kony 2012” by a group calling itself “Invisible Children” also received a flood of criticism for simplifying the Uganda war and trying to portray Americans as saviors of suffering Africans.

The video, which spotlights Ugandan rebel Joseph Kony of the Lord’s Resistant Army, had gone viral with over 15 million hits within two days.

Journalist Michael Wilkerson, formerly based in Uganda, said “Following a successful campaign by the Ugandan military and failed peace talks in 2006, the LRA was pushed out of Uganda and has been operating in extremely remote areas of the DRC, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic – where Kony himself is believed to be now.”

Source: Special to the NNPA from the Global Information Network

Tri-State Defender

TRAVEL

March 15 - 21, 2012

Welcome to Chattanooga!

Special to the Tri-State Defender

by Cass Teague

Chattanooga has many pleasant attractions for visitors – The Chattanooga Choo Choo, Tennessee Aquarium, Rock City, Ruby Falls, and Incline Railway, a thriving arts community, a newly developed North Shore District, and a major university.

Visitors can get to most attractions free on quiet, pollution-free electric shuttles. One shuttle hub is next to the Chattanooga Choo Choo at 1400 Market Street, an iconic landmark hotel and convention center. An excellent option for lodging is the Marriott adjoining the Chattanooga Convention Center, among two dozen downtown choices.

The Bessie Smith Museum and Cultural Center is a must for anyone visiting Chattanooga, especially African Americans, with its marvelous atrium, huge function space, and historical exhibits. Each section of the museum celebrates African American life from one of ten perspectives: sports, families and neighborhoods, performing arts, churches and religion, business and industry, physicians and dentists, organizations, education, military, and politics.

Photos of prominent Chattanoogans adorn the panels of the exhibits – sports legends Willie Mays of the Choo Choos and Satchel Paige of the Black Lookouts, with modern day icon Teresa Lawrence Phillips; performing artists Curtis Mayfield and the Impressions, Roland Hayes, and others; in medicine and dentistry, displays of historic instruments and practitioners accompany present day healers such as Dr. Thomas J. Brooks; public servants Rayburn Traughber (one of the museum’s founders) and C. B. Robinson are there.

Vilma Fields Atrium has stunning portraits of the legendary Bessie Smith, and other legendary musicians. In Bessie Smith Hall, see her outfits, concert venues and performances from the “Chitlin Circuit”

along with other artifacts from her life and times. “The Bessie” offers art exhibitions and the “Song-book” series of the music of African-American artists interpreted by other artists.

Get a rib plate from the Chatt SmokeHouse, just two blocks from “the Bessie.”

The delectable, fall-off-the-bone rib meat is prepared three hours in advance for an exquisite succulence matched only by the delicious side orders, like Visitors can get potato salad and baked beans, hand made from to most scratch daily to accomattractions pany the best barbeque free on quiet, in town. pollution-free The Tennessee Aquarium is consistently rated electric one of the top aquariums shuttles. One in the nation. River Jourshuttle hub is ney follows a raindrop next to the flowing from the top of a Chattanooga mountain to form streams, swamps, lakes, Choo Choo at and rivers; Ocean Jour1400 Market ney takes you into the Street, an seas, and into a tropical iconic landmark forest; the IMAX offers hotel and crystal clear, 3D images that leap off a six-story convention screen in the ultimate center. theater experience.

The vibrant arts community includes the Hunter Museum of American Art and the North Shore District, featuring original art, handmade jewelry, and fine crafts from local and regional artists. If you want some really good food, the City Cafe Diner, across from the Marriott, is always open, 24/7, with a comprehensive menu including the most amazing desserts imaginable.

Enjoy the famous Bessie Smith Strut during the Bessie Smith Heritage Festival, or live music at the Riverbend Festival.

Chattanooga has much more to offer, just take a peek on the website: chattanoogafun .com.

Page 7

BUSINESS

Page 8

Tri-State Defender

March 15 - 21, 2012

ON OUR WAY TO WEALTHY

Womenʼs History Month:

At The Wharton Law Firm, it’s about the basics Part 2

As owner of the Wharton Law Firm, Ruby R. Wharton is a recognized force within the Carlee Memphisarea legal McCullough community. Last week, our On The Way To Wealthy Conversation with her included a discussion of the joy she derives from having her sons now working with the Wharton firm. This week – in celebration of Women’s History Month – we feature part two of our conversation, which probes the practice of law and the new generation of lawyers.

Carlee McCullough: Now

that the second generation has come into the business, has your approach to the business been altered in any way?

Ruby Wharton: Yes, and I cannot say that I have been always willing to make the changes that my sons have advocated.

But honestly, most of the changes, particularly, technolRuby R. ogy have Wharton been great suggestions and they are now convincing me that I should consider and/or engage in marketing and advertising.

CM: If you had to go back in time and start the Wharton

Law Firm over, is there anything you would do differently?

RW: Yes, the first thing I would do is consider buying real estate much earlier and not lease. Another thing I would do is to hire employees who are willing to step up and continuously keep up with current skill sets.

CM: What advice would you give to the new generation of attorneys?

RW: I could summarize it by mentioning four things: (1) always be honest in everything you do; (2) work hard and be willing to sacrifice; (3) be respectful toward others; and (4) be patient and willing to wait on that good case or that million dollar verdict.

CM: What are your thoughts about the new generation of attorneys?

MRW: I believe by and

MONEY MATTERS

Do you have enough disability coverage?

A disabling illness or injury can occur without notice, and statistics show that nearly one in five people will be sidelined for at least a year during their careers. States often require employers to provide shortterm disability coverage, but many don’t extend coverage beyond a few weeks or months. In fact, less than half of U.S. companies paid for long-term disability insurance coverage in 2009.

Even when businesses include disability income insurance in their benefits packages, typical limitations can make group policies inadequate. A well-paid professional in the midst of a productive career generally has much to lose if he or she experiences a disability and is unable to work.

Disability benefits paid from an employer’s group plan, workers’ compensation, or Social Security probably won’t come close to replacing a sixfigure income. Individuals with higher incomes may want to expand their disability coverage to help ensure that their incomes, assets, and lifestyles are not left vulnerable.

Potential problems with group coverage

Workers may want to purchase an individual disability income policy if they are selfemployed or their employers do not offer coverage – or if

they would like to supplement an insufficient group plan. Companies that for pay long-term coverage tend to p r o v i d e Charles p o l i c i e s Sims Jr. that replace only 50 percent to 60 percent of income.

There are other reasons why it might not be wise to rely on group benefits alone. If the employer contributes to the premium, the benefits are taxable to the beneficiary, and bonuses are typically not considered when the worker’s base earnings are calculated.

Options for broader protection

Unlike the case with group policies, benefits from an individual policy are generally taxfree as long as the policyholder pays the premiums. Other features that may apply only to individual policies could make them especially beneficial to professionals with special skills and to those who work in high-paying fields.

Group plans may end payments when the disabled worker’s condition improves enough for him or her to work

at any job, even if the salary is significantly less than what was earned before the disability. With an individual disability policy, you might prefer one that pays benefits if you cannot perform your “own occupation.” Residual coverage may help you if you can only work part-time or at a lowerpaying job after you return to work.

Other riders may allow you to add coverage without additional under-writing as your income increases, or to convert your policy to a longterm-care policy after you reach a certain age.

Unfortunately, entire families must often suffer the consequences of a breadwinner’s disability. Owning an individual disability income insurance policy built to suit your personal situation may help you avoid life-altering coverage gaps.

(Charles Sims Jr., CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, is President/ CEO of The Sims Financial Group. Contact him at 901682-2410 or visit www.SimsFinancialGroup .com. The information in this article is not intended to be tax or legal advice, and it may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. You are encouraged to seek tax or legal advice from an independent professional advisor.)

WEB TEASER

Can a hairstyle hurt your job chances?

Competition for jobs is great as unemployment remains high across the nation, so maximizing marketability is key. But have you ever thought y o u r choice of hairstyle might be a barrier to gaining employment?

T h a t ’s right, your hairstyle!

Michael S. Wearing a Washington h a i r s t y l e such as twists, braids, cornrows or dreadlocks might pose such a barrier.

You may ask what does my hairstyle have to do with my ability to perform a job?

That’s a great question, and the answer should be “nothing!” The truth of the matter is applicants seldom know the reason(s) they didn’t get the job, because that information is almost never shared.

So as you compete for positions you should consider anything that could potentially work against you in landing your first or next position, in-

cluding your hairstyle.

(Read

guest

columnist

Michael S. Washington’s full column at www.tristatedefender.com.)

large that they are very bright and energetic. However, a good number of them seem to lack basic courtesies and seem to be focused more on making money than serving their community. This is troubling to me.

CM: What is one of the main differences you see with attorneys practicing law today compared to when you started?

RW: This is not necessarily a statement directed only to young people, however, I find that a good number of attorneys today do not seem to have problems with being dishonest toward each other.

Their word does not appear to be their bond.

CM: After years of practicing law, what is the biggest lesson you’ve learned as an attorney?

RW: I am not sure I could say I have learned one big les-

son. Putting it another way I would say that I am still learning, not so much about the law, but about dealing with people, and in that connection I am still teaching myself to be patient, to listen thoroughly to my clients.

CM: What advice would you give to those interested in the area of law?

RW: The major advice I would give is to think very hard and ask yourself whether you want to devote a large amount of your life working in a field that is extremely demanding and challenging.

Further, I would ask the persons to consider whether they are willing to sacrifice early on in their career to learn as much as possible about the law but also about how to work in making the law serve its purpose with regard to justice.

CM: What advice would

you give to lawyers interested in private practice?

RW: I would go back to my answer about work: be willing to work long hours, be willing to wait on the big case, but understand that every little case is your potential big case.

Work it hard, work it right and serve the client well.

CM: Any closing words of wisdom to those going into a family business?

Just know not to monopolize the conversation with subjects concerning work. Thank you for the opportunity and maybe you should get the thoughts of my children.

(For more information visit: www.TheWhartonLawFirm .com.)

(Contact Carlee McCullough, Esq., at 5308 Cottonwood Road, Suite 1A, Memphis, TN 38118, or email her at jstce4all@aol.com.)

Tri-State Defender

March 15 - 21, 2012

Page 9

RELIGION

Page 10

Tri-State Defender

March 15 - 21, 2012

LIVING THE LIFE I LOVE

Don’t hate on the weight-loss pitchmen

Dear Lucy: I have been overweight for years. I have tried Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig, exercise and every diet known to man. I get so mad and discouraged when I turn on the TV and see yet another celebrity selling a weight loss plan. Of course it works for them; they have the money, the support, the time, the motivation (like being a successful movie star) and everything I don’t have to be successful. This is not a level playing field and it is pushed in our faces all day long on the TV. Thanks, FA.

Dear FA: The frequency and aggressiveness of the commercials and ads for weight loss products is simply a testimony to the weight challenge in America. There is so much more to losing weight and keeping it off than the program, diet or tricks one uses to get to success. This is just a part of the solution.

I get your distress, believe me.

Each new commercial with Jennifer in it is more thought provoking. She just seems to look better and better!

But, all of the celebrities don’t succeed. Remember Kirstie Alley? Imag-

ine her shame and disgust when she lost all that weight only to put it all back on and get fired by the Weight Watcher folks! Yet, I saw recent reports of her on “Dancing with the Stars” having lost Lucy weight again.

Shaw Will she keep it off? Who knows?

But these guys signed on to live their lives under the watchful eyes and opinions of the public. It is up to us to decide if their weight loss trials have anything to offer us.

There are a number of reasons why companies hire celebrities to pitch their products. Over the years, providing jewelry, dresses, shoes and probably even underwear for the Red Carpet has become a mainstay of income for stars. Why does it work for the companies and the stars? Because the public has been trained to view these peoples’ lives and opinions as

more interesting and important than their own! It is because we have come to believe that how we look is more important than how we think, behave or feel. Companies are only guilty of selling the public what the public is willing to buy. The opinions and style of celebrities sell stuff. So when someone signs up for Weight Watchers, did they sign up to look like Jennifer Hudson or did they sign up to be healthy and happy?

And then, of course, there is Charles Barkley’s Weight Watchers campaign called “Lose Like a Man.” Do men want to be Charles Barkley or be like him?

Jennifer Hudson wrote a very moving book about her life and her weight.

I believe there is great value in acknowledging people whose lives epitomize ideals we have for ourselves.

One of the longest and bestselling books about success is “Think and Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill. It is over 80 years old now and looks at the lives of the great men who became millionaires during the Great Depression. Hill chronicles the traits and qualities that these men had that

helped propel them to success and sustain them in hard times. Henry Ford who started Ford Motor Company had only an 8th grade education. He was creative, resourceful, determined, courageous, sought help for the things he didn’t know how to do and subsequently revolutionized a facet of transportation in the U.S. I remember my Mother insisting that I read the lives of the great Negro pioneers who overcame the worst of degradations to become role models for future generations. “Up From Slavery” should be a jewel in every black child’s library.

Our call is to choose the ideal or dream for the life we want. Identify someone who has succeeded at what we aspire to be, do and have. Then study them, read about how they did it. Read about the qualities it took to do it. Consider the patience, courage, commitment, pain, and capacity for falling down and getting back up that they developed along the way.

Choose these role models wisely and for the right reasons. Avoid the temptation to be jealous or hate on them.

Look for the worthiness of your ad-

The Healthy Church Challenge draws 1,000 participants from 49 churches Special to the Tri-State Challenge

goods store and nutritional counseling. The individual who loses the most weight will receive a $500 gift certificate to a sporting goods store.

“We see the need for people to become healthier and take care of their temple,” said James, who teaches fitness classes four days a week at her church, including aerobics and Zumba. “The pastor has been talking about a healthy church for a while now.”

“A lot of people in the black church are overweight and unhealthy,” said Freda T. Boyce, who co-pastors Proceeding Word Faith Center in the Frayser community with her husband, Marvell T. Boyce, the senior pastor.

She said the Healthy Church Challenge is an extension of what Proceeding Word has been doing already to help the members shed those unwanted pounds. So when she heard about the Challenge, she jumped at the chance to participate.

“It’s a perfect opportunity to lose weight, get healthy, and win prizes for the church,” said Boyce, noting that the church started an exercise program a year ago for married couples, but discovered it was advantageous to include the whole church.

She calls it “Fitness to Witness.”

“We are a young church,” she said.

“We’ve been doing this since the ministry first started. We had a lot of people who lost weight. When you lose weight, you feel healthy and energized. And we are very competitive.”

That competitive spirit is the impetus that organizers hope will motivate participants to eat healthy, exercise

Wanda Taylor, a nurse at Baptist Memorial Healthcare Corporation, watches as Anne Sharpe, a member of St. Patrickʼs Catholic Church weighs in for the Healthy Church Challenge 100-day weight loss and competition. Joyce Johnson, a volunteer, assists Taylor during the daylong weigh-in on March 10. (Photo by Wiley Henry) and change their sedentary lifestyle throughout the 100-day competition and beyond.

The next series of weigh-ins begin Saturday, April 7, at the Church Wellness Center, 1115 Union Ave., from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

On Saturday, March 24, Donna Richardson Joyner, an internationally renowned fitness expert, will participate in the Challenge as an inspirational motivator and will coach and work out with participants who want to get healthy. The event is for all participants currently signed up for the Challenge.

The Challenge wraps up with an Obesity Summit scheduled for June 16, and with a walk on June 17 at

the Juneteenth Freedom and Heritage Festival in Douglass Park. At the finale, participants will walk around as gospel music wafts through the park and winners will be announced. Both events are open to the public.

The Healthy Church Challenge is presented by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee. Along with BlueCross, the Challenge is sponsored by Baptist Memorial Health Care, News Channel 3, Hallelujah 95.7 FM, The New Tri-State Defender, and the Juneteenth Freedom and Heritage Festival.

For more information, call 901278-0881 or visit Facebook.com/The Healthy Church Challenge.

PRAISE CONNECT -A WEEKLY DIRECTORY OF MINISTERS & CHURCHES-

Greenwood Christian Methodist Episcopal Church 3311 Kimball Ave. Memphis, TN 38111 (901) 744-7531 (901) 744-7664

Clarence Kelby Heath Wednesday Pastor

Noon - 1 p.m.

6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

9 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

901-946-4095 fax 948-8311

Bible Study For Youth and Adults Tuesday - 7:00 PM “Spirit, Soul, and Body!”

AM 1070 WDIA Sundays, 10:00-10:30 AM

SUNDAY Sunday School .....................8:30 am Morning Worship Service ....10:00am

TV Cable Access Broadcast Tuesdays, 7:30 PM, Channel 17 Website:www.saintandrewamec.org

Dr. & Rev. Mrs. Reginald Porter

TEMPLE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST

672 So. Lauderdale 38126 P.O. Box 314 Memphis, Tn 38101 Phone (General) 774-1572 Pastor: 775-0740 Secretary: 775-1909 WEEKLY SERVICES

Sunday Sunday School 9:00 a.m.

Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.

Night YPWW 5:00 p.m.

Night Service 6:00 p.m.

Tuesday Night Prayer 6:00 p.m.

Bible Study 7:15 p.m.

Wednesday Choir Rehearsal 7:00 p.m.

Friday Morning Prayer 9:00 a.m.

Night Service 7:30 p.m.

BROADCASTS 9:30 a.m. Sunday WDIA - 1070 AM

No Telecast Service

ST. ANDREW A.M.E. CHURCH (901) 948-3441

SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES

FRIDAY Cable Channel 17 ............... 8:00pm

BRIEFLY: United Health Care and the “People’s Fat Loss Coach” – Robert Ferguson – present a Town Hall Event for Memphians to reduce waistline and expand lifeline. Free and open to the public, the Diet-Free Tennessee Health & Happiness Tour kicks off on March 17 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at St. Andrew AME Church at 867 South Parkway East.

BRIEFLY: Progressive Missionary Baptist Church at 394 O.C. Collins Sr. (Vance) Avenue will celebrate the church’s 94th anniversary on Sunday (March 18). The Rev. Dr. James B. Collins, the host pastor and anniversary chairperson, will speak during the 11 a.m. service. The Rev. Dr. Roosevelt Joyner of Koinonia Baptist Church will be featured at the 3 p.m. service.

BRIEFLY: The New Olivet Baptist Church at 3084 Southern Avenue will celebrate the life and legacy of the late Rev. Kenneth T. Whalum on March 25 at 6 p.m.

Admission is $10 for adults (18 and older), and free for children (under 18). For more information, call 901-454-7777.

BRIEFLY: St. John Baptist Church at 640 Vance Ave. will hosts its Annual Women’s Day Program at 3 p.m. on March 25.

The guest speaker will be the Rev. Debra Ann Matthews, senior pastor of Highland Drive Christian Church in Jonesboro, with music by the Women’s Chorus of Metropolitan Baptist Church. A reception will follow.

BRIEFLY: The Church Health Center and MIFA will host a farmers market from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesdays starting May 1 and running through September at Church Health Center Wellness, 1115 Union Ave. For more information, call Esther Wills at (901) 259-4673, Ext. 1604 or visit ChurchHealthCenter.org.

Early Morning..........7:45 AM Church School..........9:45 AM Morning Worship......11:00 AM

Rev. Davena Young Porter Rev. Linda A Paige Rev. Luecretia Matthews

WEDNESDAY Bible Study .........................10:30 am Mid-Day Prayer Meeting .....12 noon Evening Prayer Meeting........7:00pm

(Check out Lucy Shaw’s website at http://www.heartworks4u.com. You may send your questions to her by U.S. mail to: Heartworks4U, LLC; 4646 Poplar Ave. Ste 201, Memphis, TN 38117 or by e-mail to lucy@heartworks4u.com.)

(For help with the feelings that get in the way of prayer and peace of mind, get Lucy’s new book, “BE NOT ANXIOUS.” Order it directly from her at 901-907-0260 or go to her web site www.heartworks4u.com.)

867 SOUTH PARKWAY EAST Memphis, TN 38106

Dr. Reginald L. Porter Sr., Pastor

ASSOCIATE MINISTERS

Worship Services

Sunday Sunday School Worship Service

METROPOLITAN BAPTIST CHURCH

767 Walker Avenue Memphis, TN 38126

Lucy

RELIGION BRIEFS

by Wiley Henry

Nearly 1,000 people from 49 churches came to weigh in for the launch of “The Healthy Church Challenge” 100-day weight loss competition at Southwest Tennessee Community College last Saturday (March 10). Old and young alike of all shapes and sizes attended the daylong event, which featured weighins, educational exhibits and fun.

The renowned community choir of Billy Rivers and the Angelic Voices of Faith, under the direction of both Rivers and Michael Dodson, started the morning off with melodious gospel music as participants continued to sign in and make their way to the scales.

Michael Adrian Davis, the popular radio personality at Hallelujah 95.7 FM, served as the emcee. Though serving in an official capacity, Davis joined his church in participating and even weighed in.

“I see our people suffering from those things that could be avoided,” he said. “I just wanted to bring awareness to the fact that we as a people need to participate in our own health. We live for today and don’t think about tomorrow.”

Davis said people must eat right and exercise to avoid those catastrophic diseases that ravage the body, adding, “After losing my wife to cancer, it possibly could have been circumvented.

So the Healthy Church Challenge is near and dear to my heart.”

A number of members from Cummings Street Baptist Church in the Whitehaven community are taking the challenge seriously. Naudia James, the church’s health ministry coordinator, said she signed up nearly 40 people for the weight loss competition and a chance for the church to win a $5,000 gift certificate to a sporting

miration. If they pass the test, then admire them, give them credit and be inspired by them. Take from their experience whatever is of value and permanent as righteous learning for growth and incorporate it into your plan for success.

To learn more, join me on March 17th for a seminar on a new approach to weight loss. Go to my web site www.heartworks4u.com or call us at 483-7754 to register.

For all of the uncelebrated Jennifer’s out there!

Dr. David Allen Hall Pastor

“The Founder’s Church”

First Pastor: Senior Bishop C.H. Mason

THE BLVD Ea s t 6745 Wol f Ri v e r B oule v a r d @ Ki r by Pa r k wa y ( i n t he Cl a rk Ope r a Me mphi s Ce nte r ) Me mp h i s T N 3 8 1 2 0

Dr. Frank A. Thomas Senior Servant

Child Care Center (901) 948-6441 Monday-Friday 6 AM- 5:30 PM Emergency Food Pantry Rev. Kenneth S. Robinson, Pastor & Clothes Closet Rev. Marilynn S. Robinson, Co-Pastor Wednesday 6 PM-8 PM

“Ministering to Memphis-Spirit, Soul and Body”

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

— Proverbs 1:7

Tri-State Defender

RELIGION

Page 11

March 15 - 21, 2012

St. Andrew AME Women’s Weekend celebration to feature Dr. Renita Weems

Keeping it real in Memphis…

Guest speaker Roland Martin tweets to his 600,000-plus followers during a Menʼs Day appearance last Sunday (March 11) at The New Olivet Baptist Church, where the Rev. Dr. Kenneth T. Whalum Jr. is the host pastor. (Photo by Jonwalter Lewis.)

LEGACY: Vera Redwing Lewis

Vera Redwing Lewis

Vera Redwing Lewis, a registered nurse, died March 10. She was 67.

Visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday (March 16) at N.J. Ford & Sons Funeral Home at 12 South Parkway West.

The funeral service will be at 10 a.m. on Saturday at St. Patrick Catholic Church, where she was a member. Visitation at the church begins at 9 a.m.

Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery.

She leaves four daughters, Trina Redwing, Tanja Redwing, Crystal Redwing and Maurita Lewis, all of Memphis; five sons, Norman Redwing (Angela), Ronald Redwing, Thomas Lewis, Kendall Redwing and Marcus Lewis (Felicia), all of Memphis; three sisters; two brothers; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and other relatives.

The Rev. Dr. Renita Weems will be the keynote speaker during St. Andrew AME Church’s Women’s Weekend celebration FridaySunday (March 16-18).

The theme is “Sisters: Tested, Tried and… Triumphant!”

The weekend begins with the 20th Annual Women’s Retreat on Friday and Saturday at Whispering Woods Conference Center in Olive Branch, Miss. The retreat is projected to draw 500-plus women of all denominations from across the country. Host Pastor Kenneth S. Robinson, M.D., and the Rev. Rosalyn Nichols will be among those leading the worship services and workshops. Topics include: tapping into technology, rekindling our marriages, managing your time, being

delivered, s u r mounting difficulties, valuing yourselves, overcoming grief, resources for special needs Rev. Dr. children, Renita Weems listening to God and looking good!

Weems is the guest speaker for the Women’s Retreat and for Women’s Day on Sunday.

Dr. Weems is the author of several widely acclaimed books on women’s spirituality and wholeness, including: “Just A Sister Away,” “Showing Mary,” and “What Matters Most: Ten Passionate

Lessons from the Song of Solomon.”

Dr. Weems has taught at Vanderbilt Divinity School as a professor of Hebrew Bible and at Spelman College as the William and Camille Cosby Professor of Humanities. As a speaker, preacher and workshop leader, Weems focus is on women’s spiritual values and support systems, juggling family and work, work and love, and women finding a balance between their spiritual values and their professional aspirations.

St Andrew is located at 867 S. Parkway East, with services at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.

The Rev. Marilynn S. Robinson is co-pastor. For more information, call 901-948-3441 or visit www.saint andrewamec.org.

ENTERTAINMENT Tri-State Defender, Thursday, March 15 - 21, 2012, Page 12

WHAT’S HAPPENING MYRON?

Diana Ross is coming to town!

Here’s a question: Did Diana Ross ever have a title like “Queen of Soul” like Aretha Franklin?

Well, if not, she should have. This “superwoman” has had one heck of a career and she is still touring Myron the world, with no Mays signs of slowing down.

Here’s great news: the lady who can sing the blues, R&B and pretty much anything else is coming to Memphis in just a few weeks, thanks to Fresh Ideas Entertainment.

Now, let me see if you will agree or disagree with me on this. It seems that Ms. Ross has achieved a lot of what Beyoncé is accomplishing now.

Could Beyoncé have taken a page out of Ms. Ross’ playbook? Before you Beyoncé fans start throwing something at me again, just follow me.

Look at these similarities: Beyoncé came from a very popular group, Destiny’s Child. Ms. Ross did as well, rocketing to stardom with The Supremes.

Beyoncé has gotten into acting, Ms. Ross starred as Billie Holiday in 1970 in “Lady Sings the Blues” for which she earned an Academy Award nomination. Wow, this was like nine years before Beyonce was even born. (lol) With her vault of hits with Motown and RCA, and hits with The Supremes as well as her solo songs, Ms. Ross has amassed a whopping 18 No. 1singles and has sold over 100 million albums worldwide. Get ready for a long, hit-packed show.

Beyoncé was influenced by Michael Jackson who was heavily influenced by…yes, Diana Ross.

I will give Beyoncé a whole lot of credit. She is still young and has a long career ahead. By the time she reaches the stage in her career that Ms. Ross is in hers, she could possibly be the most successful recording artist in recorded music history…male or female. I say that ready to dodge an avalanche of rocks from all of the Michael Jackson fans.

Check out Diana Ross in concert on Sunday, April 22 at the Orpheum Theatre at 7 p.m. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at the Orpheum Box office, at all Ticketmaster outlets and ticketmaster.com.

Who’s John Henton? Remember the lovable character Overton from “Living Single?” Yes, him. Before he co-starred with Queen Latifah and Kim Fields on the successful Fox television series, he did stand-up comedy. Now Henton’s returning to his comedy roots and bringing the funny to Tunica at the Funny Bone Comedy Club at Harrah’s Casino through Saturday March 17. Tickets are $15-$20 and can be purchase by going to www.funnybonetunica.com.

John Henton at the Funnybone

Bo P at the Bartlett Comedy Spot

Come and get your laugh on with Comedian Bo P from BET’s “Comic View” and HBO’s “Def Jam” live at the Bartlett Comedy Spot this Friday (March 16) and Saturday Night!

Show times are at 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. each night. Admission is $10!

Hosted by Funnyman Prescott. The Bartlett Comedy Spot is located at 5709 Raleigh Lagrange at Sycamore View. Call 900-590-3620 for details.

Comedy and Blues Tour Returns

If you missed the Valentine’s Show don’t worry, the Comedy and Blues Tour is back! Sonya D., Honest John and Toni Green are back, along with Mark Muleman Massey for one big show at the New Daisy at 330 Beale Street on Saturday March 17 at 8 p.m.

The British TV Show “Hairy Bikers” is spotlighting Memphis music and cuisine. The producers have chosen Green, an international recording artist, to film and feature on thee show. So MEMPHIS, come out and show them how to have a great time!

Tickets are on sale now. Just go to www.comedybluestour.com.

See you Thursday night at Cottonbowl Lanes for Throw-Down Thursdays! Catch us at www.whatshappening myron.com for more details.

Until then, that’s what’s happening.

I’m out

(Got an event you’d like for me to cover, please email me at Myron@whatshappeningmyron.com)

TELEVISION

From hoops star to lawyer to broadcaster Len Elmore: The ‘March Madness’ interview Special to the Tri-State Defender

by Kam Williams

Long associated with March Madness, Len Elmore is appearing on CBS for his 12th season as an analyst during the network’s NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship coverage. In addition, he has served as a basketball analyst for ESPN for the past 13 consecutive years, calling ACC and Big East games, including the Big East Tournament.

An eight-year NBA veteran, Elmore is a 1974 graduate of the University of Maryland, where he was a three-time All-ACC player and an All-American his senior year.

In 2002, the 50th Anniversary of the ACC, he was chosen as one of the ACC’s Top 50 Players of all time. He earned a Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School in 1987 and began his law career as an assistant district attorney in Brooklyn, N.Y. He presently serves on The Knight Commission on Intercollegiate Athletics Reform, on the University of Maryland Foundation Board of Trustees, as well as on the board of directors of both 1800Flowers.com and Lee Enterprises, Inc. Plus, he has served as president of the National Basketball Retired Players Association.

Born in the Big Apple on March 28, 1952, Elmore still resides there and was inducted into the New York City Basketball Hall of Fame in 2001. Here, he talks about March Madness and about his extraordinary careers on the court, behind the microphone, and as an attorney.

Kam Williams: Hi Len, thanks for the interview. I’m also born in 1952 and grew up in New York, so I’ve followed your career since high school when you led Power Memorial to the city championship and the No. 1 ranking in the nation.

Len Elmore: Thank you, Kam. KW: …(Let) me start by asking who you think has what it takes to win the NCAA Tournament this year?

LE: Boy, there’s not just one team. Obviously, there are the favorites like Syracuse, and certainly Kentucky, a good young team.

We could also look at a team like Duke, which has enjoyed a resurgence. After being up and down during the season, the Blue Devils finished strong enough to be considered for a No. 1 seed. Then, there are those teams that people haven’t really spoken about much, like Kansas, which has played very well, as has Missouri.

And there are others with plenty of potential, such as Michigan State, which worked its way into a No. 1 seed. Most people didn’t have this level of expectation for them after they finished .500 in the Big Ten last year. But The Spartans have really redeemed themselves with a lot of youth, although they also have a terrific veteran in Draymond Green. Ohio State sort of has to overcome some of their issues, but they’re very capable of going all the way in a six-game series. And North Carolina is definitely built to go the distance in the tournament.

So, those are the teams I think we should be looking at, but in the end, I really believe that Syracuse and Kentucky are the two teams that have shown very few weaknesses.

KW: I think March Madness makes for the most exciting and compelling spectacular in all of sports. Why is that?

LE: The beauty of the NCAA College Basketball Tournament is in its structure, a one and done situation, which includes so many teams not considered serious contenders who nevertheless have the potential to overcome their shortcomings and rise to the occasion. You also have the fallibility of a heavy favorite who might make a few fatal mistakes in a game and find itself facing elimination. Those are the components of the drama that make March Madness.

KW: This question is from the Michael Reichwald, President of Yorkson Legal, who is a great March Madness fan: “Do you feel a special bond to Jeremy Lin, as you both attended Harvard?”

LE: Not necessarily a Harvard bond. I went to Harvard Law School, not the undergrad, so I can’t say I’m as capable as he is.

The bond I do feel with him has to do with his persevering in developing the fundamental basketball skills he’s displayed. It’s almost an indictment of NBA players how fundamental skills can become an equalizer of great talent. Lin approaches the game with an unselfish attitude, wanting to play with and for his teammates. That’s where his success lies. Yes, he might not be as talented as many of his opponents. Yet his teammates are better and play harder with him out there on the floor because of his unselfishness.

By comparison, we’ve all too often witnessed NBA stars who attain a certain level and only play for themselves. We’ll have to

Len Elmore (Photo by David Shankbone)

see whether Lin can sustain this level of play long term, but I think his will always be a success story regardless, simply because he’s demonstrated an attitude that ought to be adopted by more players.

KW: Gail Marquis says that back in the ‘70s, you were teammates at Maryland with John Lucas, Tom McMillen and Tom Roy. All of them had been top high school players in their respective states. She would like to know how your coach, Lefty Driesell, blended those diverse talents, and how you got along as a team, race relations-wise?

LE: That’s a pretty interesting question.

Coach Driesell was the architect of a system designed to get the most out of our individual talents. And he made sure that everybody had a chance to room with each other to break down barriers. But as far as our actually meshing as a team, that was up to us.

That was based upon both how we were raised as individuals and on our desire to become a unit.

In terms of race relations, we were looking for unity, to coalesce, and to cross cultural bridges. We were so close that we’d find ways to socialize together. We lived, hung out and ate together. And our love for each other and development of bonds was so deep that we’re all still friends to this day.

KW: Rod Williams says: “In your day, the NBA only drafted college underclassmen as hardship cases. I think what is overlooked in the success of Jeremy Lin is that he had stayed in college which afforded him an opportunity to study the game while his mind and body matured.”

LE: The term “hardship” was a fallacy and a work of art, since there was no filter through which the league would determine whether or not someone was really a hardship case. You wouldn’t believe how many guys from middle-class backgrounds left school early because they wanted the money. That being said, I do believe staying in college for four years obviously allows one to develop fundamental skills.

What’s lost on so many of the young kids who come out early nowadays with tremendous athletic talent, with what the pros call a big “upside,” is that they still need to develop the fundamental base in order to build into an extraordinary talent. As extremely talented as Lebron James is physically, he still lacks certain fundamentals that might be exposed when his body starts to betray him, if ever. The flip side of that is Kobe Bryant who is so fundamentally sound. He’s more of an anomaly.

KW: Lowery Gibson says: “Mr. Elmore, you played at a time when the game was bigger that the sum of its players, even with the superstars of your time.” He asks: “Does the sport still feel the same to him?”

LE: In all honesty, I’m not nearly as much of a fan of the NBA as I was maybe 10 or 15 years ago, or certainly as I was when I was a player. It’s become more entertainment fo-

cused, and less focused on the purity of the game. That’s not necessarily a bad thing; it’s just not my cup of tea. One of the reasons why I enjoy college basketball a little more is because of its team orientation as opposed to individual orientation. I’ve always been taught that basketball is a team game and greater than the sum of its parts. So, Lowery, you hit on something.

KW: Patricia Turnier: “A lot of kids think that they can become a superstar athlete without an education. Very few are aware of the financial problems many pros encounter after they retire. You managed successfully to have other careers after your NBA days.

How did college prepare you for your postgraduate career? What message do you have for today’s youth about financial security?”

LE: Getting a well-rounded education and developing a love of learning that hopefully will continue to last my lifetime certainly helped prepare me to understand what’s coming at me in this world and to adapt. I can’t say there was one thing in particular that helped prepare me for life beyond basketball except for the exposure to college and that laboratory, if you will, that allows us to learn who and what we are, and to be able to utilize that knowledge in real life.

I’m concerned that young people today, far too often, abdicate their responsibilities of learning and adapting and give that over to people who may not always have their best interests at heart. And without a well-rounded education, they get into trouble if they don’t have the skills or the resources to overcome the issues that present themselves.

That’s a big problem today. I also recognize that when I played, we didn’t get paid anything close to what these guys get paid today.

So, I knew, despite playing in the NBA, that I would have to prepare for another career or vocation for when my playing days were over, in order to maintain relevancy. I didn’t want to become known for what I used to do.

KW: When you look in the mirror, what do you see?

LE: I see a person who has achieved many goals that he set for himself, and who didn’t allow a few setbacks to interfere with his love of life. And I see a person who is a good husband and a good father, and who will hopefully leave a legacy for my sons to be the same.

KW: The Ling-Ju Yen question: “What is your earliest childhood memory?”

LE: How my mother and father stressed education and always made sure we had a place to study and books to read.

KW: The Tavis Smiley question: How do you want to be remembered?

LE: I’d like to be remembered as somebody who persevered, who in many ways overcame, who recognized the importance of giving back, particularly to our youth, and as someone who tried to reach back and to catapult the next generation beyond him.

ENTERTAINMENT

Tri-State Defender

Page 13

March 15 - 21, 2012

OPENING THIS WEEK

Kam’s Kapsules:

Weekly Previews That Make Choosing a Film Fun

Special to the Tri-State Defender

by Kam Williams

For movies opening March 16, 2012

BIG BUDGET FILMS

“21 Jump Street” (R for violence, drug and alcohol abuse, coarse sexuality, crude humor and pervasive profanity) Comical adaptation of the Eighties TV series features a couple of disgraced cops (Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum) forced to work undercover at a high school to crack a teen narcotics ring.

With Ice Cube, DeRay Davis and Brie Larson.

INDEPENDENT & FOREIGN FILMS

“Casa de Mi Padre” (R for profanity, sexuality, drug use and graphic violence) Crime comedy about a couple of siblings (Will Ferrell and Diego Luna) who land in a turf war with a Mexican mobster (Gael Garcia Bernal) when they take desperate measures to save their father’s ranch. With Efren Ramirez, Genesis Rodriguez and Adrian Martinez. (In English and Spanish with subtitles)

“Delicacy” (Unrated) Romantic romp about a French widow (Audrey Tautou) who finds herself courted by a Swedish co-worker (Francois Damiens) while still mourning the loss of her husband. Support cast features Bruno Todeschini, Melanie Bernier and Pio Marmai. (In French and Swedish with subtitles)

“Detachment” (Unrated) Romance drama about a jaded substitute teacher (Adrien Brody) who becomes less blasé about life after getting emotionally involved with a colleague (Christina Hendricks), a teen prostitute (Sami Gayle), and a troubled student (Betty Kaye). With Lucy Liu, Marcia Gay Harden and Blythe Danner.

“The FP” (R for sexuality, nudity, pervasive profanity and brief drug use) Musical comedy about a couple of rival gangs vying for control of a local park who decide to settle their differences in a deadly dance competition. Cast includes Jason Trost, Art Hsu, Caitlyn Folley and Lee Valmassy.

“Free Men” (Unrated) WWII saga, set in German-occupied Paris, revolving around an Algerian immigrant (Tahar Rahim) who becomes inspired to join the Resistance after being befriended by a Jewish singer (Mahmud Shalaby). With Michael Lonsdale, Lubna Azabal and Farid Larbi. (In French with subtitles) “Jeff, Who Lives at Home” (R for profanity, sexual references and drug use) Late

Ice Cube in the comedy “21 Jump Street.” (Photo by Scott Garfield/Columbia Pictures)

bloomer comedy about a 30 year-old slacker (Jason Segel), still living in his parents’ basement, who discovers his destiny while running an errand for his mother (Susan Sarandon). With Ed Helms, Judy Greer and Rae Dawn Chong.

“The Kid with a Bike” (Unrated) Bittersweet drama about an abandoned 12 year-old (Thomas Doret) who is rescued from a beggar’s farm by a hairdresser (Cecile de France) performing a random act of kindness. With Jeremie Renier, Egon Di Mateo and Olivier Gourmet. (In French with subtitles) “Natural Selection” (R for profanity, sexuality, violence, drug use and brief graphic nudity) Baby-daddy dramedy about a barren housewife (Rachael Harris) who tries to fulfill her dying husband’s (John Diehl) last wish by tracking down his long-lost, illegitimate son (Matt O’Leary). With Jon Gries, Billy Blair and Berna Roberts.

“Reuniting the Rubins” (PG for mature themes and mild epithets) Dysfunctional family comedy about an uptight attorney (Timothy Spall) who reluctantly postpones a vacation to reunite his estranged offspring at Passover for the sake of his ailing mother

(Honor Blackman). Featuring Rhona Mitra, James Callis, Hugh O’Conor and Loo Brealey.

“Saviors in the Night” (Unrated) Holocaust drama, set in Westphalia in 1943, based on the memoir of Marga Spiegel (Veronica Ferres) recounting how her family was saved from Hitler’s concentration camps by neighbors who hid them on a farm.

With Armin Rohde, Luisa Mix and Lia Hoensbroech. (In French, German and English with subtitles)

“Seeking Justice” (R for violence, profanity and brief sexuality) Nicolas Cage stars in this revenge thriller about a man who enlists the assistance of a vigilante group to settle the score with the creep who had brutally raped his wife (January Jones). With Guy Pearce, Jennifer Carpenter and Harold Perrineau. (In English and Italian with subtitles)

“The Wise Kids” (Unrated) Coming-ofage comedy set in Charleston, South Carolina where we find three high school seniors, a closeted gay (Tyler Ross), a devout Christian (Allison Torem), and a Baptist minister’s (Rodney Lee Rogers) daughter (Molly Cunz), doubting their faith. With Matt DeCaro, Sadieh Rifai and Stephen Cone.

HOROSCOPES

March 15-21, 2012

ARIES This is a good week for exercising that clever mind of yours. Luck will be with you in all endeavors you start. Luck is with you always because positive outlook attracts positive vibrations.

TAURUS Your careless ways with money are going to be apparent this week. Financial mistakes you’ve made in the past will be painful. Don’t conceal the pain from yourself. It is a warning that you should take steps to prevent future financial crisis.

GEMINI Take advantage of the great weather and spend time outdoors enjoying and relaxing with Mother Nature. Spend time with family and friends.

Don’t take travel matters into your own hands.

Seek a professional who will be able to plan a wonderful vacation for you without breaking your bank. Cook up some goodies for your loved ones.

CANCER Everything seems to be moving along in a very pleasant way this week. Friends are helpful, family is supportive, even the sun seems to be shining just for you! Enjoy this harmony and count your blessings. Finish a task at work.

LEO The bond that you established with your spiritual side works well in your relationship with a special person. Speak of the reality of the intangible qualities of life. Your lover will understand.

Keep attention on the financial matters you’ve been dealing with.

VIRGO If you need some time to yourself this week, take it. You’ll be doing yourself an act of kindness. Since you do so much for others, why not treat yourself as well as you treat them? Your world is the way you are living. Live with love.

LIBRA Remember that exercise is a wonderful tensionreliever if things get too intense this week. A walk over your lunch hour could make all the difference in how you feel this afternoon. Reward yourself with perfect health and happiness.

SCORPIO You’ve done some of your own love homework. Hopefully you’ve had an opportunity to learn a new way of seeing the world and in that way you’ve found a way of loving that is more natural for you.

SAGITARIUS If you want to keep your positive outlook intact, avoid gossip and those who might want to just cry the blues for no good reason. You’ll be happiest this week if you keep busy and keep your opinions to yourself. However, good advice is available from an older female relative.

CAPRICORN You’ve done a lot of things in life that no one has agreed with at the beginning. Finding agreement this week will be difficult, but it should not deter you from moving forward. Feeling sorry for your loneliness will discolor what you are doing.

Be happy that you are alone.

AQUARIUS Eternal optimist, eternity is now. Get in touch with your hopefulness and be a beacon to others.

Try not to be taken in by promises made by others or promises you’ve made to yourself. Concerning your own affairs, avoid contemplating lofty subjects and seeking long ranged solutions.

PISCES Some say optimism is fantasy. Suppose the good thing you’re optimistic about never comes.

This week you’ll know that the joy of anticipating it is joy enough. Just the certainty of coming goodness is present goodness.

Source: NNPA News Service

Page 14

HEALTH

March 15 - 21, 2012

CHEF TIMOTHY

Looking for a fountain of youth? Eat more fruit and vegetables

by Chef Timothy Moore Ph.D, N.M.D, C.N. Special to the Tri-State Defender

The myth of the Fountain of Youth – the legendary spring thought to restore youthful exuberance and vitality after someone drinks of its water – is more than a thousand years old. Today, some men and women still are searching for it in either a pill or a beauty product.

Women, in particular, spend a ton of money each year on their appearance, seeking to keep their girlish looks even though they may be advancing in age. However, some of the most beautiful women – in the world Halle Berry, Toni Braxton, Cicely Tyson, Vanessa Williams and Christie Brinkley – have found their own fountains of youth. Their beauty is alluring and their skin appears taut without blemish or wrinkle.

“Beauty is in the eye of the beholder,” the ageless Proverb goes.

But if most people could wave a magic wand and transform themselves into someone other than themselves – such as a diva with gorgeous, jaw-dropping looks or a heartthrob with a six-pack – I believe they would.

So many people opt to choose cosmetic surgery to maintain their youth as much as possible. But when you look at the cost factor and how much time it takes to heal, is it really worth trying to keep your youthful look?

We age quickly because of our environment, which is loaded with toxins and poisons, and because of the creams that we use on our face.

The food that we eat is also responsible for accelerating the aging process and is likewise loaded with pesticides and toxins. It seems we can’t escape the menace of pesticides and toxins; they’re everywhere.

There is a fountain of youth – if you’re still looking for it – but you won’t be able to drink from it. Instead, you’ll find in it the restorative properties that are found in fruit and vegetables. If you eat more fruit and vegetables, you’ll be able to turn back your biological clock and stop the aging process. Then your skin and body would radiate.

Some people are spending a shipload of money on Botox and all types of skin products in hopes of finding that a fountain of youth.

Don’t be fooled by the constant bombardment of advertisements.

If you’re allowing a doctor to inject you with drugs, the doctor may be causing more damage to your skin.

In some reports, Botox injections cause more than a few complications. It may provide a temporary

fix, but in some cases, it’s causes the skin to wrinkle.

There’s help, however.

And you don’t have to spend a fortune trying to get that youthful look.

The cosmetic industry is a $45-to-$65 billion annual business, acDr. Timothy cording to Moore Heather Woods Rudolph, who If you eat more wrote a story titled “Why Vanfruit and ity Keeps Us vegetables, Poor” on her you’ll be able to blog “Sexy turn back your Feminist” in biological clock 2007. Rudolph wrote about and stop the how the cosaging process. metic and toiThen your skin letries industry and body would has become a worldwide, bilradiate. lion-dollar business where American women spent an average of $12,000 annually on grooming and beauty products.

There are simple ways to keep your youthful look and not spend unnecessary money. One way is to eat leafy green vegetables, which provides important nutrients, minerals and antioxidants.

Eat other vegetables as well, such as kale, Swiss chard, sweet potatoes, dandelion greens, pumpkin seeds, carrots, orange bell peppers and red bell peppers. And make sure you drink purified water to flush your system of toxins and poisons.

The skin is the largest organ in the body and provides protection to you.

That’s why you have to eat fruit and vegetables and get 6 to 8 hours of sleep per night or day to replenish your cells and to avoid the wrinkle appearance. It is also good to eat beans, grains and lentils.

That’s the quick fix, if you will, to everlasting youth. But if you truly want to fix the person in the mirror, start believing it’s possible to be the person you want to be.

And remember, you must love yourself first before any of this can take affect.

(Dr. Timothy Moore teaches nutrition, heart disease and diabetes reversal through a plant-based lifestyle. He is a professional speaker, wellness coach and personal plant-based chef. He can be reached by email at cheftimothy@cheftimothymoore.com or visit him on the Web sites at www.cheftimothymoore.com or www.twitter.com/cheftimmoore.)

Methodist South Hospital’s Whitehaven Healthy Community Day Scheduled for April 14

Memphis, Tenn. – In an effort to promote health and wellness to the local community, Methodist South Hospital will host its fourth annual Whitehaven Healthy Community Day on Saturday, April 14 at 1300 Wesley Drive. The event includes:

8:30 a.m. - Health Walk/5K Run The two-mile charitable walk or 5K Run will take place around the surrounding neighborhoods of Methodist South. The Walk is unique because funds are being raised for five non-profit organizations including the American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, American Diabetes Association, A-T Children’s Project, Mid-South Transplant Foundation and the National Kidney Foundation. Walkers can choose to raise money for one of the five organizations, but it is not required to participate in the Health Walk. Participants who choose to donate $20 to one of the organizations will receive a commemorative t-shirt.

9 a.m. – 1 p.m. - Health Fair The Health Fair will be located in the parking lot directly across from the hospital and will feature a variety of vendors and health information. Blood pressure, glucose (blood sugar), cholesterol, and other health screenings will be available. There will also be a physician question/answer booth and information for the uninsured.

11 a.m. & Noon - Cooking Demonstrations The cooking demonstrations will feature Methodist South’s Chef Ibrahima Toure who will show attendees how to make quick and easy healthy dishes for the entire family.

There will also be music, games, healthy snacks, and family fun.

The event is sponsored by Walgreens, Trustmark Bank, Lawrence Johnson Realtors, Marlowe’s, Pediatrix Medical Group, Healthy Memphis Common Table, Piano’s Flowers & Gifts, Motley Internal Medicine Group and the YMCA. For more information, visit www.methodisthealth.org/healthwalk or call (901) 516-3580.

Employment

Production Specialist/ Switcher/Editor – TV (EOE) Assist in producing locally quality programming for TV, and creative execution of all graphics, video and audio elements in studio and remote TV production. Serve as switcher, editor and/or assistant to Producers on video elements and non-linear editors.

College degree preferred. 3 years exp in TV production or other related field Mail or email to: Executive Assistant WKNO-TV/FM 7151 Cherry Farms Rd Cordova, TN 38016 dsmith@wkno.org Employment Opportunities Choctaw Transportation Company recruits individuals regardless of race, creed, disability, veteran status, color, religion, national origin, sex or age with various skills as job opening occur. We are and Equal Opportunity Employer and make every effort to employ minorities and females May Apply At: Choctaw Transportation Company 2353 Hwy. 104 W. Dyersburg, TN 38024 EOE/M/F/V/D Employment Opportunities Ford Construction Company recruits individuals regardless of race, creed, disability, veteran status, color, religion, national origin, sex or age with various skills as job opening occur. We are and Equal Opportunity Employer and make every effort to employ minorities and females May Apply At: Ford Construction Company; 2353 Hwy. 104 W.; Dyersburg, TN 38024 90 Fiberglass Rd.; Jackson, TN 38302 1697 W. Hwy.; Troy, TN 38260 EOE/M/F/V/D

Legal notices

NOTICE TO BIDDER(S) Sealed bids will be received by the Shelby County Government in the Department of Housing, 1075 Mullins Station Road, Memphis, Tennessee 38134 until 9:30 a.m. on Friday March 30, 2012 as shown below: MULTIPLE AND ENTIRELY DIFFERENT REHABILITATION AND LEAD HAZARD CONTROL JOBS ARE CONTAINED IN THIS BID NOTICE. BIDDER(S) MAY ELECT TO BID ON ANY OR ALL OF THE JOBS IN THE NOTICE. SEALED BID (SBI-000150) DUE: Friday March 30, 2012 1. Rehabilitation of Owner-Occupied Housing Units throughout Shelby County some of which may require the use of lead based paint safe work practices and techniques, and 2. Lead Based Paint Hazard Reduction Jobs.

Detailed specifications for items above may be obtained in the Shelby County Department of Housing at the aforementioned address. All bids will be opened and publicly read by the Shelby County Government at the time mentioned above at the Department of Housing, 1075 Mullins Station Road Memphis, TN 38134, (901) 2227600.

As a condition precedent to bidding, each bidder must apply and qualify for a Vendor Number and Equal Opportunity Compliance Eligibility Number prior to the

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submitting your response. Your EOC number must be displayed on the outside of your envelope for each bid submission.

As a condition precedent to being awarded jobs involving Lead Based Paint, contractors must be certified through EPA as an RRP contractor and/or show proof of application to EPA for said certification and be certified through the State of Tennessee as a Lead Based Paint Firm. Proof of licensing at time of bid submission is required by the Shelby County Department of Housing.

The label, which is attached to the specifications shall be completely filled out and attached to the bid submission envelope.

You must display your current E.O.C. Eligibility Number or your Locally Owned Small Business (LOSB) Number on the outside of your envelope and a copy of all licenses and insurance policies must be included in your submitted bid package. Unless the label is completely filled out and your current E.O.C. Eligibility Number is noted thereon your bid may be returned to you unopened. Should your label be lost or misplaced, please note the appropriate information in the lower left-hand corner of your envelope. The Department of Housing encourages participation from WBE, MBE, LOSB, and Section 3 Contractors under these rehabilitation programs.

The Shelby County Government reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive any informalities therein.

By order of MARK H. LUTTRELL, JR., MAYOR SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Jim Vazquez, Administrator ALL INTERESTED BIDDERS The Board of Education of the Memphis City Schools will accept written bids for Painting Restoration at Egypt Elementary.

Visit our website for additional information: www.mcsk12.net/departments.asp, Procurement Services link, click on Bids & RFPs. Questions concerning bids/RFP should be addressed to Procurement Services at (901) 416-5376.

Thank you for supporting Memphis City Schools.

Jacqueline Saunders, Director Memphis City Schools – Procurement Services

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The City of Memphis, Department of Engineering will hold an open Title VI- Public Meeting on Thursday, March 22, 2012 regarding two proposed major Curb Ramp Construction Projects within the city including: 1) TDOT PIN Number: 114576.00 (Alpha) State Agreement # 79LPLM-F3-212 Federal Project #STP-M-9409 (159) STP Curb Ramps Group 43 PW04081 Bethel Grove Elementary School Area Pine Hill E. S. Area Sea Isle E. S. Area Shady Grove E. S. Area Vollintine E. S. Area (834) Individual Curb Ramp Locations 2) TDOT PIN # 114576.01 (Bravo) State Agreement # 79LPLM - F3 – 249 Federal Project Number; Pending STP Curb Ramps Group 43 PW04081 Brewster Elementary School Area Gordon E. S. Area Newbery E. S. Area Sharpe E. S. Area Treadwell E. S. Area (823) Individual Curb Ramp Locations

When: Thursday, March 22, 2012 1:00pm to 3:00pm

Where: Memphis Center for Independent Living 1633 Madison Avenue Memphis, TN 38104

For Additional Information please contact: Danny Gray ADA Curb Ramp Coordinator City of Memphis Engineering Division 125 N Main Memphis TN 38103 (901) 576-6907 danny.gray@memphistn.gov

Real estate

The Greenwood CME Church has lease space available for schools, day care, or office use. Please contact 901-744-7531 for an appointment.

COMMUNITY

Tri-State Defender

Page 15

March 15 - 21, 2012

Schools merger grind continues Special to Tri-State Defender

by Tarrin McGhee The Transition Planning Commission will cross another scheduled meeting off its calendar this week as it continues the grind toward a plan for the merger of Memphis and Shelby County schools.

The TPC’s Thursday (March 15) meeting is set for a 4:30 p.m. start at the Shelby County Code Enforcement Building at 6465 Mullins Station Road. In new business, presentations are on tap by the finance and logistics committees.

An August deadline looms to develop a transition plan for the merger. Last week (March 8), the TPC voted to approve an administrative structure for the unified Shelby County Schools district that will take form in the 2013-2014 school year.

According to the approved proposal, the Multiple Achievement Paths model will place emphasis on high performance standards for all schools, allow paths to autonomy or

school-based leadership on issues of staffing, fiscal management and curriculum development, and encourage innovation and public involvement to increase student achievement rates.

The administrative structure for the new unified district gives consideration to charter schools that may be established inside the city limits and or the outer-county, and three Memphis City schools that will begin operating under the leadership of Tennessee Achievement School District Supt. Chris Barbic this year due to low performance.

A different alternative that was considered – the United Model – would have given administrative and governance control to a centralized office to make operating decisions for all schools within the unified district.

The TPC recommendation for the Multiple Achievement Paths model comes after a series of listening sessions and speaking engagements were held in various communities to gather public input on what to in-

clude in the transition plan, and to garner feedback on guiding principles established to carry out their work.

Since the Transition Planning Commission was created in October of last year, the group has made significant headway in its timeline to develop a comprehensive plan to guide the schools merger that will meet the needs of all students, and also take into account pension and tenure rights and benefits for existing faculty and staff.

In February, the commission approved a set of educational priorities and themes for the merged district that will focus on school readiness, and preparing students for college and career success.

The TPC’s advancements notwithstanding, efforts to deviate from the path toward a unified school system are picking up steam in suburban Shelby County.

In a meeting Shelby County Mayor Mark Luttrell convened last month between suburban mayors and members of the TPC, the mayors made

clear their intentions to move forward with plans to form their own separate school districts. Citing the need to respond to the concerns of their constituents among the driving factors, the group of municipal leaders formally announced their collective decision to forge ahead in their quest for local control and authority of schools within their municipalities.

If separate school districts are formed in suburban cities, the outcome will in essence defeat the purpose of existence for the Transition Planning Commission.

Luttrell has recently voiced his apprehension about the pace at which plans to form separate school districts are developing in suburban communities. He has repeatedly expressed discontent and advised municipal mayors to let the transition planning process take its course.

As mandated by state law, the Transition Planning Commission must present the plan to merge Memphis and Shelby County schools to the Tennessee Department of Educa-

tion for review by August 2012.

Meanwhile, residents in Bartlett, Germantown, Lakeland, Arlington, and Collierville are expected to head to the polls as early as May to vote on a referendum that if passed, will provide the legal leeway that city leaders need to put their plans into action.

Recent developments in the schools merger saga have made it apparent that members of the Transition Planning Commission will continue to face uphill battles in building countywide support for their efforts, although they appear to be undeterred.

In coming weeks, members of the TPC will begin fleshing out the schools merger transition plan by crafting more specific recommendations to meet the educational priorities that have been outlined.

Ultimate approval and implementation of their plan once complete will rest with the Shelby County Unified School Board, of which elections for the 23-member body are set to be held on Aug 2.

Room for discussion...

Central High Student Paris Byrd (left), a member of Bridge Builders, was a panelist at the ethnic media roundtable held at the National Civil Rights Museum on Tuesday. The discussion was engineered by New America Media, in conjunction with the Bill and Melinad Gates Foundation, and was an initial step in an effort to identify ways for the media, particularly ʻethnicʼ media, to help bridge the gap between “communities of color” and education reform. (Photos by Shirley Jackson)

BRIEFS & THINGS Website and Facebook page seeks input for Triangle Noir Redevelopment Project

A new website for the Triangle Noir Redevelopment Project is up and running and loaded with information, charts, photographs and the history of noted African American pioneers who struggled, triumphed and established themselves within the proposed 20-block redevelopment area.

The website is used as a tool to generate community response and engage those stakeholders with a keen interest in redeveloping the area that is bordered by Beale Street on the north, Main Street on the west, Crump Boulevard on the south and Manassas Street on the east.

The area is an epicenter of African-American history, heritage and culture in one locale. The name, however, has been bandied about, and now Mayor A C Wharton Jr. and the partners of the Triangle Noir Redevelopment Project are seeking input from the general public on a name that best characterizes the area.

“We’re going to pick the best and brightest minds. We’re going to find a name that is fully and tastefully descriptive yet marketable,” Mayor Wharton said. “The name itself ought to project a message and communicate a message. That’s what we’ll be looking for.”

The general public is encouraged to go to the website www.trianglenoirmemphis.org to vote on a new name or submit one for consideration. A Facebook page has also been set up for comments, to disseminate information of importance, and communicate with the general public each step of the way until the project is completed.

The address is www.facebook.com/TriangleNoir-Redevelopment-Project.

“A new name to replace Triangle Noir will give the general public an opportunity to become stakeholders in the proposed redevelopment project,” said Robert Lipscomb, Director of Housing and Community Development and Executive Director of the Memphis Housing Authority.

BRIEFLY: The LeMoyne-Owen College’s Center for African & African American Studies will host

its Women’s History Month Table Top Book Club Discussion and Luncheon beginning at noon on March 27 on campus in the Dorothy Harris Lounge in the Student Center at 807 Walker Ave. For more information, contact Dr. Femi Ajanaku, event coordinator, at 901435-1427, or Daphne Thomas, public relations director at 901-4351539.

BRIEFLY: On March 22, Rhodes College’s Communities in Conversation series will present a lecture by Dr. Jane Landers titled “African Kingdoms, Black Republics and Free Black Towns in the Iberian Atlantic.”

The free lecture begins at 7 p.m. in Blount Auditorium of Buckman Hall on campus and is sponsored by Rhodes’ Department of History and the Spence Wilson Chair in Interdisciplinary Humanities.

BRIEFLY: The MED Foundation will return to the Peabody’s Grand Ballroom on March 31 at 6 p.m. for the 2nd Annual MED Night, A Soul Celebration. For more information, visit www.themedfoundation.org.

BRIEFLY: The City of Memphis’ Ambassadors Program is taking applications. Interested parties must be entering the 10th, 11th or 12th grade in the upcoming 20122013 school year. Applications can be completed at www.cityof memphis.org until March 16th. Applicants will be ranked March 22nd, and interviews will occur in April.

BRIEFLY: The Heal the Hood Foundation of Memphis (HTH) will host the HTH “Game Changer” Advocate & Humanitarian Award during the 4th Annual “Living the Dream Telethon” on April 14 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Hickory Ridge Mall. To find out about the award categories and/or nominate a “Game Changer,” contact Roshunda Buchanan, Team Coordinator at 901-489-2386 or email Roshunda.Buchanan @yahoo.com to receive a 2011-12 nomination form.

BRIEFLY: Memphis Prom Closet is collecting prom dresses for the second annual Prom Party, sponsored by Verizon Wireless and Macy’s, to provide dresses to girls in need, now through March 23. For more information on how to volunteer or donate, contact Lori Spicer at lori@smittenevents.com or 901213-SMIT (7648).

Concerted effort…

Record-breaking Gospel artist Marvin Sapp was a soul-stirring hit during an appearance at New Salem Missionary Baptist Church at 2237 South Parkway East last Sunday (March 11). (Photo courtesy of Ralph Sutton)

Let’s talk about the future…

Congressman Steve Cohen was the pivot man in this Career Day gathering at Corning Elementary School in Frayser. (Photo

by Tyrone P. Easley)

SPORTS Tri-State Defender, Thursday, March 15 - 21, 2012, Page 16

GRIZZ TRACK

‘Details’ detour Grizz on way to victory Kobe and Lakers rise from big hole Special to the Tri-State Defender

by Kelley Evans

Ever attended a great basketball game and left confused?

Well many did on Tuesday (March 13) when the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Memphis Grizzlies 116 to 111 at FedExForum in a double-overtime survival contest.

The confusion brewed as several foul calls were overlooked. I know I counted more than ten in the first quarter. I scratched my head during the second quarter because still no calls. By the time the second overtime was over I realized that only two Grizzlies – Marreese Speights and Tony Allen – made it to the free-throw line during the entire game. Six players from the Lakers hit the line scoring 28 of their 34 free throws.

The Lakers’ Matt Barnes tripped, falling to the floor while making a run to the basket with Sam Young in his tracks and a foul was called on Young. Kobe Bryant made 11 of his 25 free throw attempts.

Lakers center Andrew Bynum scored on 15 of his 18 free-throw attempts.

Meanwhile, Memphis attempted a season low five free throws. It’s a free country and Grizz fans took advantage of their right to scream liberally at the officials.

Still, it was an evening of pure playoffatmosphere basketball.

Fans gathered from throughout the region for the one and only regular season appearance by the Lakers in the FedExForum this season. The crowd was about 5050, Lakers fans vs. Grizzlies fans. The battle royal of fans defending their home court, trying to check the oohs and ahs of “Kobe-Time” was evident from start to finish.

“Our guys played hard,” said Grizz Head Coach Lionel Hollins. “We just didn’t make shots down the stretch. They played with a lot of energy and a lot of heart. We lost to a team that played better.

We’ve got to give them their due…”

In a heck of a basketball game, the fans got their money’s worth, said Hollins. “I just hope they keep coming out, because we’re gonna keep giving ours out there so that they know they’re gonna play with a lot of heart and a lot of grit.”

The Grizzlies lost for the first time this season when scoring 100 points or more and for the first time at home when leading at the end of the first quarter and at halftime.

“It’s tough to play without Rudy (Gay),” said Quincy Pondexter, making reference to the Grizz’s leader scorer, who was out with a mild concussion, “and we’re still waiting to get (All-Star forward) Zach Randolph back….

Grizz guard Mike Conley battles Pau Gasol of the Lakers for a loose ball in a double-overtime game where every little play seemed to matter. (Photo by Warren Roseborough)

But at the same time, we came out and competed,” said Pondexter, who scored eight points. “We were right there to win the game.”

Speights led six Grizzlies in double figures with a season-high 25 points to go with seven rebounds and a career-high five assists. He scored 15 points in the third quarter. Center Marc Gasolfinished with 20 points and 11 rebounds.

“Little details,” Gasol said. “There were small plays and a couple of mistakes. They made us pay and they deserve it.”

Asked about the officiating, Gasol replied, “I’m not going to go there,” adding that he was not giving his money away.

Allen scored 11 of his 18 points in the first quarter and contributed four assists.

“We had our chances to seal the deal,”

said Allen. “Like coach said, it was the little things that did it. Me personally, I came in and gave up a three. That’s one thing coach made emphasis on coming into here.

It felt like a playoff atmosphere, and that’s playoff basketball.”

Grizz guard Mike Conley posted his eighth double-double of the season with 10 points and a game-high 11 assists, surpassing his total amount of double-doubles from all of last season.

Bynum led the Lakers with a seasonhigh 37 points and 16 rebounds followed

by Bryant with 34 points and nine rebounds.

In the Lakers’ locker room after the game, forward Metta World Peace sported his blue suede loafers and said he wears them every time he’s in Memphis.

“Everybody started picking up the

MIDDLE SCHOOL

pace,” said World Peace. “Coach made some good subs. The second unit came in and really had us back in the game. They pulled it out.”

Memphis is a very physical team,” said Kobe Bryant. “Down low, they are very big. Marc (Gasol) is very big and good defensively. It should give him a great deal of confidence. To do what he did against this team was awesome.”

The game featured “typical Grizzlies basketball,” said Bryant.

“They are extremely well-coached.

They have a lot of weapons. They play very well defensively. The thing that really carries them is their opportunity to get steals, which leads to fast break points.

The first time we played them we had 27 turnovers, but somehow managed to win the ball game.”

TIGER TALES

Tracking…

The Fairgrounds was the site for this MIAA Track and Field event held last week as the middle school season kicked off. (Photos courtesy of Andre Mitchell.

Can’t catch me…

Bellevue, Airways, Craigmont, Colonial and Kate Bond middle schools all competed in the meet at the Fairgrounds.

Tigers starting point guard Joe Jackson was named Conference USA Tournament MVP for the second straight year after the championship game at the FedExForum on Saturday (March 10). (Photo by Warren Roseborough)

The ‘Madness’ of March is on!

Memphis opens play in the 2012 NCAA Tournament West Region Friday (March 16) when the Tigers face Saint Louis in Columbus, Ohio. The NCAA Tournament second-round contest, to be televised on TBS (Comcast digital channel 27), is slated for a 5:50 p.m. (CT) start at Nationwide Arena.

The winner of Friday’s Memphis-Saint Louis NCAA Tournament second-round game advances to the third round Sunday to face the Michigan State-LIU Brooklyn winner.

Source: www.gotigersgo.com