VOL. 63, No. 9
February 27 - March 5, 2014
President moves forward with My Brother’s Keeper initiative
Designed to help boys, young men of color kajanaku@tri-statedefender.com
by Karanja A. Ajanaku
President Barack Obama is taking action to launch My Brother’s Keeper – an initiative to help every boy and young man of color who is willing to do the hard work to get ahead. The White House announced late Wednesday that the President would unveil the initiative during an event in the East Room of the White House on Thursday (Feb. 27th) afternoon. It involves a partnership with foundations, businesses and others to make sure “that every young man of color who is willing to work hard and lift himself up has an opportunity to get ahead and reach his full potential.” Building on his Year of Action, the new initiative is pitched as another way the President will use his pen and his phone, involving both the private and public sectors, to expand opportunity for Americans. A fact sheet promoting the initiative notes that opportunity has lagged behind for boys and young men of color for decades. The President wants to build on work being done across the country as communities adopt approaches to help “put these boys and young men on the path to success. “We can learn from communities that are partnering with local businesses and foundations to connect these boys and young men to mentoring, support networks, and skills they need to find a good job or go to college and work their way up into the middle class,” the Obama Administration asserts in the release. The Administration pledges to do its part by helping to identify and promote programs that work. According to the White House, The President believes it is essential to ensure access to basic health, nutrition, and to high-quality early education to “get these kids reading and ready for school at the youngest age. But that’s not enough. “We need to partner with communities and police to reduce violence and make our classrooms and streets safer. And we need to help these young men stay in school and find a good job – so they have SEE BROTHERS ON PAGE 3
- INSIDE -
• Babies raising babies. See Opinion, page 4. • Children doing right at Black History Knowledge Bowl. See Community, page 11. • Grizz almost blow big lead against Lakers. See Sports, page 13.
James Johnson slams
MEMPHIS WEEKEND
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75 Cents
The MED evolves into Regional One Health Special to the New Tri-State Defender
by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell The Regional Medical Center at Memphis, known for 30 years as The MED, passed quietly into the annals of Memphis history Wednesday with the unveiling of a new name – Regional One Health. CEO and President Reginald W. Coopwood took the wraps off the facility’s new logo and name change, already posted where The MED used to be. “When the Shelby County Health Care Corporation adopted the name Regional Medical Center in 1983, the organization was a stand-alone acute care hospital. Over the years, a broader reach of inpatient and outpatient services have been added, but we continued to be identified under the hospital name,” explained Coopwood, who is also an MD. “Creating the name Regional One Health allows us to unify all of our services under one brand to reflect the work we have done to grow our system and better serve this community.” Director of Communications Angie Golding said the move is a high-water mark in the life of the medical center. “We are all very excited about the name change and the forwardmoving direction of Regional One Health. We continue to strive for the highest standards of excellence in serving the medical needs of Shelby County and surrounding communities,” said Golding. “Our website has already been changed as well. It’s just a great time to be a part of the Greater Memphis area.” One of the newest innovations of Regional One Health opened its doors last October under the direction of Robert Farmer, clinical director of
New name reflects ʻmore than just a hospitalʼ
CEO and President Reginald W. Coopwood, MD, who has overseen The MEDʼs transition to fiscal stability, is the man in charge as it evolves into Regional One Health. (Courtesy photos)
A brief history...
The wrap was taken off of The MEDʼs new name Wednesday, revealing Regional One Health.
SEE HEALTH ON PAGE 2
LEGACY: THOMAS MAURICE SENGSTACKE PICOU
Black Press giant once owned the Tri-State Defender Special to the New Tri-State Defender
by Wiley Henry
One family name is synonymous with the Black Press in the United States: Sengstacke. Thomas Maurice Sengstacke Picou, the nephew of John H. Sengstacke, played an integral part in helping his uncle build a family of newspapers that included The Chicago Defender, the Michigan Chronicle in Detroit, the New Pittsburgh Courier, and the TriState Defender in Memphis. After Sengstacke’s death in 1997, Picou acquired the funding to purchase Sengstacke Enterprises. He gained control in 2003 and created Real Times, Inc., a holding company that owned the newspapers. He served as Real Times’ president, CEO and chairman and began rebuilding the brand to reflect the times. On Feb. 8th, Picou died following a medical procedure at Centennial Hospital Medical Center in Inglewood, Calif. He was 76. Picou learned the rudiments of journalism from Sengstacke. He took what he’d learned and added a personal touch to news reporting from a modern-day perspective. Those who knew Picou touted his skills in the newsroom, his keen knowledge of the industry, his commitment to the African-American community, his professionalism, and his business savvy. Robert A. Sengstacke, one of Sengstacke’s three sons, added “great” to describe his cousin’s skill set. “He was family,” said
Sengstacke, who’d served as TSD’s executive editor and regarded Picou as a brother. “He knew the business because we grew up in it. He was one of the best.” Picou was born in Los Angeles on Oct. 25, 1937, to Inez and Maurice Picou, who moved there from Louisiana. After the death of his mother, his aunt and uncle, Myrtle and John H. Sengstacke, sent for the teenage Picou to come live with them in Chicago. “Tommy made a difference in my life. My parents were his guardians. My dad loved him,” said Sengstacke, who recalls Picou working at a young age for The Chicago Defender, founded by Robert Sengstacke Abbott in 1905 and bequeathed to Abbott’s nephew, John Sengstacke. Robert Sengstacke achieved international acclaim as a photojournalist and documentary photographer, while Picou would eventually rise through the ranks to engineer the sale of Sengstacke Enterprises. Linda Dickson Sengstacke, who served as editor of the TSD in the 1970s and 80s, refers to Picou as her mentor. “Tommy taught me everything I know about the newspaper business,” she said. “He was a very dedicated newsman who could write a news story and people would really want to read it.” One of the lessons she’d learned from Picou manifested after he’d assigned her to write a story about police brutality in Memphis, she said.
1829 – Tennessee legislators appropriate $3,300 to open The Memphis Hospital. 1830 – Doors open primarily to sick travelers coming to town via the Mississippi River. 1832-35 – Extensive treatment of cholera epidemics throughout the city and state; A new medical education component was added. 1862 – Seized by federal troops as a Civil War hospital for wounded soldiers. 1866 – City of Memphis takes over operation of hospital 1936 – Theresa Gaston Mann donates $300,000, along with other SEE HISTORY ON PAGE 2
Trayvon Martin’s family attorney will speak at Memphis COGIC conference Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Carlissa Shaw, ESQ.
“They were using flashlights to beat people,” said Sengstacke, the wife of Picou’s cousin, Herman Frederick Sengstacke. “He taught me how to write the story. As a result, the flashlights were taken away from the police officers following an investigation by the U.S. Justice Department.” Ethel Sengstacke also worked with Picou at the TSD, including her father, Whittier Sengstacke Sr., John Sengstacke’s brother and former TSD publisher. She learned a lot from Picou, even in her role as a photographer. “He took all of us under his wings and challenged us,” she said, recalling an assignment that her cousin sent her on with Linda Sengstacke to an eerie compound in the South Memphis community that was being bandied about as “Voodoo Village.” “A lot of people were talking about Voodoo Village and people were afraid. So he challenged us to go find out what Voodoo Village was all about,” said Sengstacke, assignment editor for News Channel 3 WREG-TV. “He was a gentle giant, but stern at the same time.” Picou would spend considerable time later on rebranding TSD, inSEE PICOU ON PAGE 3
Benjamin Crump, known to many as the attorney that represented the family of Trayvon Martin as they sought justice for his fatal shooting at the hands of George Zimmerman, will keynote The ConBenjamin ference on Family Crump 2014 in Memphis on Friday (Feb. 28th). Temple Church of God in Christ is hosting the three-day conference that will stretch through Sunday (March 2nd) at the church at 672 South Lauderdale. Attorney Crump will speak at 7 p.m. The goal of the conference is to bring people together in a common forum to discuss today’s problems and challenges of families, including how to deal with juvenile delinquency, aging parents, unwed mothers, and the social and emotional stresses of poverty. “The family is important to society at every level,” said Bishop David Hall Sr., pastor of Temple COGIC. “In the black community, family is under attack. Black people are having more and more babies out of wedlock and are burdened by other social problems and we as a church have to do something about this.” Crump, who is known for taking on cases with civil rights implications, will address the audience on violence in the African-American community and the effects of violence on the family. “We are killing the family with SEE TRAYVON ON PAGE 2
NEWS
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Tri-State Defender
February 27 - March 5, 2014
HEALTH
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Respiratory Services. “We just opened a hospital within a hospital,” said Farmer. “The Regional Medical Extended Care Hospital. We’re located in the Jesse Turner Tower and are presently operating in our first six-month, data collection phase. I expect that we should be fully operational right about October.” The Extended Care Hospital treats patients with ventilators, trachs, COPD and other respiratory disorders. “We’re the link between ICU and the hospital, a link that has been missing for a long time,” said Farmer. “At full capacity, the Extended Care Hospital will have 24 beds. It substantially increases our ability to provide specialized care for patients with special respiratory needs. The Turner Tower renovation was completed last year, and we are presently operating at half capacity.” Golding said Dr. Coopwood and Regional One Health administrators are working hard to expand their reach into the medical community by communicating the extensive specialty care and services now available in their medical system. “We are trying to maintain the advances we’ve made in offering quality care to all patients. Regional One Health has become the hospital of choice for so many patients who could choose some other local hospital. We want to continue in that vein,” said Golding. “Our name change reflects all of our specialized areas of care – burns, wounds, respiratory, newborn, outpatient surgery center, a rehabilitation hospital and a primary care network of some of the city’s best physicians.” Dr. Coopwood said all specialty care and facilities are now housed under one brand. Extensive investment has been made in “the sustainability and growth” of the system for future expansion. “We are proud to offer accessible, efficient, and quality healthcare to residents of West Tennessee, East Arkansas, North Mississippi, and other areas of the Mid-South. We are so much more than just a hospital. Our new name adequately reflects that.”
HEALTH
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Gaston holdings to the facility – dedication of the new John Gaston Hospital. 1956 – E.H. Crump Hospital opened its doors to serve African-American patients; other city facilities segregated. 1968 – The Newborn Center opened to address high AfricanAmerican infant mortality. 1983 – The Regional Medical Center, “The MED” is named; the Elvis Presley Memorial Trauma Center opens. 1985 – Burn Center opened. 1992 – Wound Center added. 1994 – MedPlex Ambulatory Care Center - outpatient treatment center opens with 40 areas of specialty and sub-specialty care. 1999 – Shelby County Health Department and The MED opens six Health Department primary care clinics and four hospital-owned community-based clinics – a network called The Health Loop. 2001 – Mobile Wound Care Clinic services nursing homes. 2003 – Rehabilitation Hospital of Memphis opens, offering acute care, trauma, burn and stroke patient care. 2004 – Sheldon B. Korones Newborn Center renamed after founder and director. 2010 – Orthopedic Inpatient Unit for total joint replacement patients is opened. 2012 – Vascular Institute at Regional Medical Center opens. 2014 – World-class medical facilities system announces name change and broader reach with specialty care facilities and services.
Out on the town…
Mayor A C Wharton Jr. engages citizens who attended the Potholes to Prosperity Town Hall Meeting at Mt. Pisgah CME Church, 2490 Park Ave., last Thursday (Feb. 20th). It is one of several sessions planned to share information about the budgeting process, priorities and challenges. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley)
TRAYVON
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black-on-black crime,” said Hall, noting that Crump also is expected to address what Hall referred to as legalized lynching. “Unarmed black youth are being shot dead because someone is scared of them and we most address this,” he said. In a recent interview, Crump
said he was excited about visiting Memphis and discussing how violence has an impact on our children. “Our children’s dreams are just as important as other children’s and we must stand up and speak for the children,” said Crump. “We most answer the bell when no one is looking. We must let America know we demand equal justice.” On Saturday at the conference, a panel discussion will focus on the strength of the church and
how the church can help families. The panel of pastors will include the Rev. Dr. Kenneth T. Whalum Jr., the Rev. Reginald Porter, the Rev. Kenneth Robinson, and the Rev. Oliver Williams. The conference is envisioned as the start of a discussion for a call to action to strengthen African-American families and save the children. During the weekend, the COGIC is expected to announce new efforts to engage youth in the communities where their churches are located.
NEWS
Tri-State Defender
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the opportunity to reach their full potential, contribute to their communities and build decent lives for themselves and their families.”
Presidential Task Force
Mahogany Awards…
The University of Memphis NAACP presented the 11th annual Freedom Ball & Mahogany Awards last Friday (Feb. 21st) at the University of Memphis University Center. The awardees included: Religion, the Rev. Ralph White (second from left); Education, Dr. Karen Weddle West (center); Young Alumni, Kevin Woods (second from right). Community Service honoree Adrienne Bailey is not pictured. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)
PICOU
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cluding changing the paper’s format, adding color to the pages, and a front-page feature each week. He also brought onboard an IT person to troubleshoot computers for the newspapers in the chain. “Tommy was brilliant, an inspiration to me, and was an innovator,” said Audrey McGhee, a former TSD publisher as well. “He was dedicated to the newspaper, particularly to his uncle, whom he loved dearly. Everybody learned so much from him. And he left a lasting impression on all of us.” Judith Picou Garrett said there is no other way to look at what her brother was able to accomplish other than through the context of the AfricanAmerican press. “He is a part of African-American history.” Memories of childhood experiences are still fresh in her mind, said Garrett, a resident of Los Angeles. She recalls their father buying boxing gloves and teaching them to box. Robert Sengstacke alluded to Picou’s boxing prowess, saying, “He kept people off my a—, including my older brother.”
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February 27 - March 5, 2014
Picou’s penchant for the newspaper business, and his ability to write stories that the African-American community could relate to, mirrored John Sengstacke’s influence, Garrett said. “He felt the same way John Sengstacke did about the African-American community and wanted to help black people,” she said. Picou transformed the Black Press in an effort to keep it solvent and relevant amid a changing society of disappearing broadsheets and tabloids. Starting out in the industry in his youth, Picou made time to study at East Los Angeles City College, Los Angeles City College and Roosevelt University in Chicago. He was at Roosevelt University when he began working for his uncle. During this time, he married Cynthia Cole, who gave birth to a daughter, Tracey Picou, a resident of Little Rock. In 1984, Picou moved to South Florida, where he was involved in several entrepreneurial endeavors, including the purchase of the TousleyBixley construction firm in Indianapolis, best known for its construction of the Indianapolis 500 track. He served as chairman and CEO and waged a drive to involve more minor-
ity sub-contractors in the state’s lucrative construction industry. From 1990 to 1999, Picou secured consulting contracts with publishing giant Gannett, Inc., the Times Mirror Group and three of the Sengstacke-owned newspapers. In 2005, the American Diabetes Association and the Father’s Council honored him as a “Father of the Year.” Picou served on the trustee boards of Chicago State College and Florida International University; served as an alternate on President Lyndon Johnson’s initial National Alliance of Businessmen; and on numerous committees to which the late Mayor Richard J. Daley appointed him, as well as several state committees. He served as honorary chair for the American Red Cross, the NAACP’s annual fundraising dinner, and the Chicago Urban League’s annual businessmen’s luncheon. He was a member of the American Newspaper Publishers Association, the American Society of Newspaper Editors, and the National Newspaper Publishers Association. His long-time companion, Loretta Walker, as well as other beloved relatives and friends around the country survive Picou.
President Obama will sign a Presidential Memorandum establishing the My Brother’s Keeper Task Force, an interagency effort, chaired by the Assistant to the President and Cabinet Secretary Broderick Johnson. It is designed to help determine what public and private efforts are working and how to expand upon them, how the Federal Government’s own policies and programs can better support these efforts, and how to better involve State and local officials, the private sector, and the philanthropic community in the efforts.
Foundations and Businesses
Leading foundations and busi-
nesses are expected to be part of the initiative, with the White House saying the foundations supporting the call to action have already made extensive investments, including $150 million in current spending that they have approved or awarded. Building on that, the foundations have agreed that over the next five years they will seek to invest at least $200 million, alongside additional investments from their peers in philanthropy and the business community, to find and rapidly spread solutions that have the highest potential for impact in key areas. Those areas include: early child development and school readiness, parenting and parent engagement, 3rd grade literacy, educational opportunity and school discipline reform, interactions with the criminal justice system ladders to jobs and economic opportunity and healthy families and communities. Over the next 90 days, the foundations are to design a strategy and infrastructure for coordination of the investments. The include the Annie E. Casey Foundation, The Atlantic
Philanthropies, Bloomberg Philanthropies, The California Endowment, The Ford Foundation, The John and James L. Knight Foundation, The Open Society Foundations, The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, The W.K. Kellogg Foundation, and The Kapor Center for Social Impact. Many of the foundations are members of the Executives’ Alliance to Expand Opportunities for Boys and Men of Color – a coalition of philanthropic institutions committed to “leveraging philanthropy’s role in improving life outcomes for boys and men of color.” The My Brother’s Keeper initiative also will leverage participation from the business community and elected officials. Those who have agreed to meet with the President to discuss ways they and their companies can work with the Initiative include Joe Echevarria from Deloitte, Magic Johnson from Magic Johnson Enterprises, Glenn Hutchins of Silver Lake Partners, Adam Silver of the National BasketballAssociation and Thomas Tull of Legendary Entertainment.
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OPINION
February 27 - March 5, 2014
John H. Sengstacke Publisher (1951 - 1997)
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Blacks have more reasons to be afraid than whites
Flashback: 2006
BABIES RAISING BABIES
How adolescent parenting affects children, families and communities Special to the Tri-State Defender
by Tarrin McGhee
Even for the most prepared parents, raising a healthy and happy child is one of life’s major challenges. Having the ability to check off commonly accepted parenting prerequisites – a quality education, a good job, mental and emotional stability, a safe home – can make the challenge easier to tackle and overcome. Unfortunately, adolescents who become parents often have a shortage of key life skills and other resources that are vital to the parenting process. This sad reality is supported by research showing that, on average, children who are born to teen parents are less likely to ever reach their full potential. And the effects of teenage pregnancy on parent, baby, and community can be devastating. According to The Urban Child Institute, adolescent parenting is one of the major risk factors associated with early childhood development. In addition to its other effects, teen parenting is likely to hinder a child’s social and emotional wellbeing. When a baby is born to a teenage mother, he is likely to have more difficulty acquiring cognitive and language skills as well as social and emotional skills like self-control and self-confidence. These abilities are already developing in infancy, and they are essential for school readiness. Studies on early childhood development find that adolescent mothers (19 years of age and younger) are less likely than older mothers to engage in emotionally supportive and responsive parenting. They tend to have less knowledge about child development and effective parenting, and often misjudge their infant or toddler’s ability to adapt and learn. We don’t need research to prove that, generally speaking, age brings maturity, self-assuredness, knowledge and experience. By the age of 21, one has typically graduated from high school and is pursuing post-secondary education or participating in the workforce (or both). Throughout our childhood and teenage years we are acquiring life skills and problem-solving abilities that prepare us to confront and navigate challenges – both unforeseen and anticipated - in adulthood. As a result, those who are beyond their teen years are more likely to make informed choices, use effective coping strategies, and think through important decisions. It’s not hard to see how these qualities lead to more effective parenting. When a baby is born to an adolescent mother, there are several interrelated risk factors at play, meaning that the likelihood that one or more unfortunate outcomes will occur is stronger. A dream deferred – Adolescent parents commonly view quitting school as a solution to finding the time it takes to raise a baby. Feelings of embarrassment and shame associated with early pregnancy, or difficulty keeping up academically can also drive them to drop out. The popular MTV reality series “16 and Pregnant” offers numerous examples of these unfortunate outcomes, and serves as a glaring reminder of the need to direct more attention and resources to sex education for teens as well as programs encouraging teen mothers to stay in school. Harsh parenting – Research has found that teen parents are more likely to engage in harsh parenting practices like yelling and spanking. Having fewer life experiences and coping skills, compared to older parents, can make it harder to handle the irritability and frustration that sometimes arise when caring for a new baby. Depressive symptoms or persistent stress from other sources can increase these feelings of anger and resentment. Single parents – In a majority of cases, adolescent parents are not married and the discovery of pregnancy is unexpected. Too often, teen fathers abandon their parenting responsibilities due to fear and inability to adequately provide for their
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
child, leaving the mother with even less social support and financial assistance. Unfortunately, teen pregnancy doesn’t only affect the individuals involved – its impact is farreaching. Tarrin High rates of McGhee teen births can weaken a community’s economic conditions. According to The Urban Child Institute, the prevalence of births to adolescent mothers negatively affects high school graduation and increases unemployment. Without a high school diploma or equivalent, teens and adults have greater difficulty securing quality employment and have lower earning potential. A less educated population and unskilled workforce negatively affects the economy, and makes it difficult for communities to break aggressive cycles of poverty and crime as resources are consistently depleted. In Shelby County, teen pregnancy is not a new or isolated issue – it is a full-blown epidemic. The latest figures indicate that although the teen birth rate is declining, it is still above the national rate and among the highest in the country. In 2011, national news coverage of Shelby County’s teen birth rate sparked a local movement to reduce teen pregnancy. Efforts like the countywide ‘No Baby’ campaign helped to increase education for pregnancy prevention methods among teens, and public awareness throughout the community. On a more positive note, it is important to understand that not all babies born to adolescent parents are doomed to fail. Increased risk is not a guarantee of future problems. Clearly, many children of teen parents go on to become successful adults, but it often involves parents making greater sacrifices than older parents have to make. For example, some adolescent parents may abandon their own aspirations in an effort to ensure that academic and career success is attainable for their child. However, research shows that children born to adolescent mothers are more inclined to repeat their parents’ behavior. The Urban Child Institute reports that they are more likely to drop out of school, have more health problems, face unemployment and become teen parents themselves. So what can be done to stop this cycle from continuing? Sex education programs that teach the benefits of abstinence and pregnancy prevention are essential. Parents and educators can share in this responsibility by ensuring that teens gain this knowledge at home and at school. Avoiding discussion on the issue of sex and safe practices only heightens potential for teen pregnancy to occur. Promoting positive parenting among young mothers can also improve their children’s chances for success. Increasing parents’ knowledge about child development and effective parenting strategies will help them buffer their children from many of the risks that accompany early parenthood. Starting at birth, children begin to develop social and emotional skills. It is important for parents, no matter their age, to ensure their children are adequately prepared to face challenges later in life by maintaining a loving home environment that nurtures their ability to learn about themselves and the world around them. A strong foundation of social and emotional skills will help them make better choices in adulthood, and decrease the probability that they will search for love in the wrong places. (The New Tri-State Defender has partnered with The Urban Child Institute to make sure every child has the best 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.) 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 2013 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.
Tri-State Defender
Common Core sets high bar for Memphis kids There’s nothing like a goodlooking suit. Putting one on before work or before church on Sunday is second nature. You don’t even have to think about it. But think about Sen. Reginald when you were little, and had to Tate learn how to lace your strings, tie your tie and tuck in your shirt. You might not have learned it all at once, but you eventually learned how to put it together. Just like you had to learn to get dressed up when you needed to look sharp, there’s a lot that our kids need to learn in school. To make sure they’re learning what they need to know to get a job, Tennessee is rolling out a new set of higher standards in our schools, called Common Core. Policy makers from around the country have been working on Common Core with parents and teachers for years now, but you may just now be hearing about these new standards. There are a lot of misconceptions out there, and I’d like to talk about how these new standards will improve our schools. A suit is almost the same anywhere you go, but schools are different. Students in Tennessee were following standards that were lower than the standards in some other states. Back in 2007, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce gave Tennessee schools an “F” for truth in advertising, meaning that even though state tests showed students doing well, those tests weren’t as challenging as what students in other states had to take. Our “A” students were doing only as well as their “B” students. Common Core was developed with input from business leaders, principals and teachers. It gives us a set of standards so we know that what kids in Tennessee learn is up to the same standards as kids in other states, so we know that what kids in the inner city of Memphis learn is up to the same standards as kids in the suburbs. The standards were adopted in 2010, and full implementation started this school year, meaning some students will be tested on the standards. As vice chairman of the Senate Education Committee, I recently visited Highland Rim Schools in Lincoln County, which is in its third year of using the Common Core standards.
Students at that school are meeting the standards. Here are some examples: For kindergarten, they should know the names and sequence of numbers. For third grade, they should solve problems involving multiplication and division. For sixth grade, they should be able to solve simple equations. As you can see, these standards set a benchmark for our kids at every age, and every school in our state will be judged on the same standards. They’re set to be relevant to the real world and set up our kids for success when they graduate and look for jobs. Unfortunately, there are a lot of myths and misconceptions about Common Core. One of the most common misconceptions is that it’s a national curriculum and takes freedom away from our schools. The truth is, teachers can meet these standards however they see fit. It’s like your suit. We’re not telling you what color tie to wear, just that you know how to tie it. Another common misconception is that the standards are “dumbing down” what kids learn in schools. The truth is Common Core is a tougher set of skills than Tennessee’s old standards. It puts more emphasis on critical thinking and problem solving, and focuses on deeper understanding, instead of basic memorization. Finally, you might have heard Common Core is a national takeover of education, when in fact our Shelby County schools have taken the lead in implementing the standards here in Memphis. The county has been training teachers since 2012 to prepare, and the district is updating its technology to support the online tests they will use to assess how well our kids are learning. Students will take their first assessments this spring. Schools within the Achievement School District have taken similar steps and will have the Common Core standards fully implemented next school year. As our kids rise up through school with these standards in place, I am confident that we will see more kids graduating with the skills they need to suit up and succeed in the workforce. (State Sen. Reginald Tate represents part of Shelby County in the General Assembly. He serves as vice chairman of the Senate Education Committee.)
Your letters to the editor are welcome. For verification, please include your name, address and telephone number. Mail to: In The Mail, Tri-State Defender, 203 Beale St., Ste. 200, Memphis, TN 38103 E-mail: inthemail@tri-statedefender.com Maximum length: 300 words (subject to editing for clarity)
IN THE MAIL
FACEBOOK FAN OF THE WEEK Name: Jim Brown III
Jim Brown III is this weekʼs TSD Facebook Fan of the Week! He is a native of Chattanooga, who graduated from Brainerd High School. Jim also attended Victory University and American Baptist College. He now works for Better Way Of Life Ministry, where he ministers to the homeless. With God at the head of Jimʼs life, he lives by the quote, “Where There Is Love, There Is Peace.” Thanks Jim for excelling in Memphis and for being a part of the TSD Facebook family!
In the years after enslavement, Southern whites did all they could to return to a manner of slavery. No white “owned” a black person, but many whites behaved as if they did. Theoretically, blacks were free to come and go as they pleased, but if they went to the wrong store, sat in the wrong part of the bus, or failed to yield narrow sidewalks to whites, they Julianne could expect a Malveaux physical confrontation. … Whites engaged in the writing of Jim Crow laws that were imposed on blacks such as vagrancy laws that made it possible to jail a black man because he had no money. These unequal laws made it as easy to find a nearly free labor market as it had in slavery. There was no relief from this unfairness until the late 1960s and early 1970s. And whites attempting to reinforce the myth of white superiority by reinstituting the practice of deference found a black population less ready to defer, more willing to engage the courts (and in some cases the streets) in a quest for equality. When the myth of white superiority does not work, too many whites hide behind their so-called fear as a way to force deference or provide penalties for those who will not engage in white people’s fantasies. If Michael Dunn were so afraid of Jordan Davis and his friends, why did he get out of his car and confront them about their loud music? None of us of a certain age loves loud music, but most of us know how to close a window and tolerate it for a moment or two. Dunn says he was afraid of teens playing “thug” music. Those teens might well have been afraid of him, just as the World War II veterans had been afraid of the KKK. Jordan Davis and his friends might have been as frightened as formers slaves were, when they refused to cross the sidewalk into the streets so that Whites could go first. Some of these Black folks ignored their fear and attempted to exercise their citizenship rights. Some were lynched because they would not defer to outmoded customs. Gary Pearl could be Dunn’s evil twin, with a pecuniary twist. In 1983, Pearl left his job as a city sanitation supervisor in Louisville, Ky. because he says he had a nervous breakdown, which he attributed to having to work with black people. A psychiatrist testified that Pearl suffered from paranoid schizophrenia; a judge ordered that he be paid $231 per week. The state appealed the award, it was eventually overturned, and Pearl returned to the obscurity he had before the “fear” defense. What would happen if every black person fearing white people got to file for unemployment compensation, or carry a gun around to assuage himself of his safety? Would a jury be as lenient toward that black man as they were with Dunn? Would they acquit just like the jury acquitted the men who killed Medgar Evers (it took decades for a jury to finally do the right thing). A hard read of history suggests that blacks have more to fear from whites than the other way around, but it is whites, rationalizing their fear, who get to shoot without justification. A thorough read of history, however, would remind us of the Dred Scott case where the Supreme Court ruled that black people have no rights that whites are bound to respect. Clearly, Dunn, Zimmerman and the others who have Klan sensibilities and invisible hoods, believe a 19th century Supreme Court ruling instead of 21st century realities. For folks like Dunn and Zimmerman, however, the 19th century is not very different than the 21st. (NNPA columnist Julianne Malveaux is a Washington, D.C.based economist and writer and President Emerita of Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, N.C.) SUBSCRIPTIONS: Mail subscriptions to the Tri-State Defender are available upon request. One Year, $30.00; Two Years, $55.00. Domestic subscriptions must be addressed to: Subscriptions, Tri-State Defender, 203 Beale Street, Suite 200, Memphis, TN. 38103. Delivery may take one week. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Tri-State Defender, 203 Beale Street, Suite 200, Memphis, TN. 38103. GENERAL INFORMATION: Any and all inquiries can be made in writing, by calling (901) 523-1818 or by e-mail. TELEPHONE: Editorial and Administration: (901) 523-1818. Display Advertising (901) 523-1818. Classified Advertising (901) 523-1818. Fax: (901) 578-5037. E-MAIL: Editorial e-mail (press releases, news, letters to editor, etc.): editorial@tristatedefender.com; Display advertising email (ads, advertising price requests, etc.): advertising@tri-statedefender.com; Classified advertising e-mail (ads, advertising price requests, etc.): classifieds@tristatedefender.com; Subscription/Circulation e-mail (subscriptions, subscription price requests, etc.): subscriptions@tristatedefender.com; Production e-mail (technical questions/specs, etc.): production@tri-statedefender.com. The Tri-State Defender (USPS 780-220) is published weekly by Tri-State Defender Publishing Co., 203 Beale Street, Suite 200, Memphis, TN 38103. Second Class postage paid at Memphis, TN.
NEWS
Tri-State Defender
February 27 - March 5, 2014
Page 5
Deutsche Bank accused of housing discrimination in Memphis, other cities Civil rights groups make charge after investigation WASHINGTON, DC — The National Fair Housing Alliance (NFHA) and three of its member organizations announced Tuesday (Feb. 25th) that they have filed a federal housing discrimination complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development against Deutsche Bank. The civil rights organizations allege that Deutsche Bank maintains and markets foreclosed homes in majority white neighborhoods in a strikingly better manner than it does in majority African-American and Latino neighborhoods. Failing to maintain and market homes based on the racial or ethnic composition of the neighborhood violates the federal Fair Housing Act. The metropolitan areas named in the complaint are: Chicago, Memphis and Washington, D.C., including Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties in Maryland. The three member organizations that conducted investigations with NFHA are the South Suburban Housing Center (Homewood, Ill.), Open Communities (Winnetka, Ill.), and HOPE Fair Housing Center (West Chicago, Ill.). (The New Tri-State Defender contacted Deutsche Bank and was forwarded to media relations, with no comment received by press time.) The fair housing organizations investigated the maintenance and marketing of REO properties for 39 different types of maintenance deficiencies, including broken windows and doors, overgrown lawns and shrubs, trash on the property, mold, water damage and other problems that could cause health and safety issues for the neighbors and community at large if not taken care of properly. In June 2013, Deutsche Bank settled a lawsuit with the City of Los Angeles, which accused the bank of allowing hundreds of foreclosed properties to turn into slum conditions, leading to the destabilization of communities. “Deutsche Bank settled a lawsuit with the City of Los Angeles because it failed to maintain its REO properties. That $10 million settlement should have inspired Deutsche to change its business model and increase quality control measures,” said Shanna L. Smith, president and CEO of the National Fair Housing Alliance. “However, this initial investigation, including foreclosed homes within range of the nation’s Capitol, clearly demonstrates the opposite. It is simply bad business not to mow lawns, remove trash or perform routine maintenance in order to preserve the home and get top dollar at sale.” Trash on a property is not only an eyesore for neighbors, but it makes a home unappealing to buyers and is a potential health and safety hazard. Trash attracts rats, mice, and stray animals and signals to vandals the home is vacant and neglected. Regular maintenance and a good quality control process would correct trash problems, but in Memphis, 69 percent of Deutsche Bank REOs in communities of color had substantial amounts of trash. In Chicago, 55 percent of REO properties in communities of color had substantial amounts of trash. In the Washington, DC suburb of Prince George’s County, Md., NFHA identified 52 percent of the Deutsche Bank REOs as having substantial trash on the properties. “Deutsche Bank is causing harm to Chicago homeowners, schools and local governments by neglecting to provide basic maintenance to these homes,” said John Petruszak, executive director of the South Suburban Hous-
ing Center. “The bank’s failure to maintain its properties listed for sale brings down property values and reduces tax revenue for schools and city services. Homeowners have lost the opportunity to refinance at historic low levels because of the damage to property values.” Having secured doors and windows on a vacant home is essential for community safety and preservation of the REO. In Chicago, 27 percent of properties in communities of color had broken doors or locks and 40 percent of properties in communities of color had damaged windows. In Washington, D.C., 22 percent of properties in communities of color had broken doors and 35 percent of properties in communities of color had unsecured windows. “Deutsche Bank needs to ensure they are protecting children and the safety of the community,” said Anne Houghtaling, executive director of HOPE Fair Housing Center. “By not properly securing doors and not fixing broken windows, Deutsche Bank encourages vandalism. Just one home damaged by fire and left in disrepair can cause health issues for neighbors and blight in the neighborhood.” One property in a predominately nonwhite community in the suburbs of Chicago had trash, boarded and unsecured windows, damaged fence, peeling paint, and damaged siding. “Deutsche Bank must be held responsible for maintaining and marketing its properties,” said Gail Schechter, executive director of Open Communities. “No one at Deutsche Bank would want to live next door to one of these poorly maintained REOs. So why should African-American and Latino homeowners have to suffer economic harm and threats to their health and safety?” Another property in a predominately African-American neighborhood in Memphis was listed “for sale” and had trash in the yard, broken windows and doors, a severely damaged fence and piles of wood and debris scattered over the front yard and the public sidewalk. “This house and yard are disgusting. Not only is it a safety hazard for anyone walking down the street, it attracts rodents and has an immediate impact on the quality of life for the neighbors,” said Smith. NFHA and its member agencies are represented by Stephen Dane, Jean Zachariasiewicz, and Anne Bellows of Relman, Dane & Colfax PLLC located in Washington, DC.
AT A GLANCE CHICAGO
• 73 percent of Deutsche Bankowned homes in Chicago communities of color had more than five maintenance or marketing problems. MEMPHIS
• 88 percent of Deutsche Bankowned homes in Memphis communities of color had more than five maintenance or marketing deficiencies, and 25 percent had more than 10 maintenance or marketing deficiencies. WASHINGTON, DC
• 91 percent of Deutsche Bank-owned homes in Washington, D.C. communities of color had more than five maintenance or marketing deficiencies.
The AKA way…
The Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Beta Epsilon Omega Chapter presented the Third Annual Educational Advancement Foundation Scholarship Breakfast last Saturday (Feb. 22nd). Proceeds benefit the Beta Epsilon Omega Endowed Scholarship. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)
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AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH
Calendar of events National Action Network/ The LeMoyne-Owen College
Feb. 27 – The Future of African Americans in Memphis will be the topic when Bernal E. Smith II speaks at The LeMoyneOwen College during a Black History Day program presented by LOC and the National Action Network. The program begins at 12:30 p.m.
Rhodes College
The production team and cast for “Duty of the Hour,” a documentary about Dr. Benjamin L. Hooks. (Left to Right): Reece L. Auguiste, director and writer; Daphene R. McFerren, executive director of the Benjamin L. Hooks for Social Change; Julian Bond, narrator; Benjamin T. Jealous, NAACP president/CEO; Tony Dancy, director and dditor. (Photo: Liezell Bradshaw)
Legacy of Ben Hooks lives on at institute bearing his name Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Aisling Maki
With Black History Month coming to a close, many have spent the past weeks reflecting on the nation’s civil rights movement and its leaders, including many who were active in the Mid-South. One of the best-known, local civil rights pioneers is Memphis native Dr. Benjamin L. Hooks, who died nearly four years ago at age 85 and is buried at historic Elmwood Cemetery. Six miles away at the University of Memphis, Hooks’ legacy lives on at the Benjamin L. Hooks Institute for Social Change, which works to teach, study and promote civil rights and social change. The Institute’s mission is reflected in its broad range of activities, which includes conducting research, hosting conferences and lectures, and promoting and honoring scholarship on civil and human rights. “We’re using an academic platform to support community engagement, “ said Daphene R. McFerren, who has served as the institute’s director since 2008. Education and activism defined the life of Hooks, who was born in Memphis in 1925. He studied pre-law at LeMoyne-Owen College before serving his country in World War II. During the war, Hooks found himself guarding Italian prisoners who were permitted to eat in restaurants that were off limits to him. He resolved to devote his life to fighting bigotry. Hooks opened his own law firm, becoming Tennessee’s first black criminal court judge and, later, the first African-American appointed to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). An ordained Baptist minister, Hooks frequently preached about social justice and became a pioneer of restaurant sit-ins and other boycotts organized by the NAACP, an organization he would later lead. His great-nephew, Brent Hooks, says his uncle had an uncanny knack for storytelling. “That’s an ability of great leaders – to be able to capture a crowd through storytelling,” he said. “The humor within his storytelling made you feel like you were close to him, no matter who you were.” Dr. Hooks was also a staunch advocate of selfhelp, telling the 1990 NAACP convention delegates, “I’m calling for a moratorium on excuses. I challenge black America today, all of us, to set aside our alibis.” Dr. Hooks spent his later years encouraging both the study of the American Civil Rights Movement and the identification of contemporary issues that continue to affect minorities and the poor. The Hooks Institute was established in 1996 when Dr. Hooks donated his personal papers, which spanned his career as lawyer, civil rights activist and judge, to the University of Memphis. Today, Special Collections – part of the University of Memphis Libraries – houses almost 400 boxes of his letters, which have been made accessible to the public. “The Institute has gone from the donation of his papers to a mission of preserving the history
Tri-State Defender
February 27 - March 5, 2014
of the civil rights movement, but also being actively engaged in the issues that affect our communities today,” said McFerren, a Yale graduate and Harvard-educated attorney, who initially came to the Hooks Institute as a visiting scholar and whose own parents were civil rights leaders in Fayette County. The Institute’s achieveDr. Benjamin ments include the creation of L. Hooks several civil rights documentaries, including “Freedom’s Front Line: Fayette County, TN” and most recently, “Duty of the Hour,” which centers on the life of Dr. Hooks. “The Memphis 13,” which tells the story of the integration of Memphis City Schools, was funded in part by the Institute. The Hooks Institute also honors authors through its Hooks Institute National Book Award, bestowed each year on a book that best furthers the legacy of the American Civil Rights Movement. Community outreach includes Splash Mid-South, a program focused on increasing swimming competency among minority youths, who statistically have the highest drowning rates. Partners in that program include Methodist-Le Bonheur Health Care, YMCA of the Mid-South, Tiger Swimming, Safe Kids MidSouth and the City of Memphis. The Hooks Institute has also been involved in voter registration drives, having registered 286 university students in six hours during the last presidential election, and in increasing financial literacy among low-income people by working with nonprofits such as the Memphis-based RISE Foundation. McFerren said the Institute continues to support civil rights scholarship through faculty research, fellowships and conferences and symposia where research is shared with the public. “The Hooks Institute carries on the legacy of civil rights and human rights activism exemplified in the lives of Benjamin Hooks, Russell Sugarmon, Maxine Smith, our parents, and other known and unknown activists, who dedicated their lives to improving the welfare of others,” McFarren said. “Improving the status of others is part of the human condition; it will never go away,” she continued. “We need vigilance in observing and monitoring what’s going on in our community and in broader society, and that’s what the Hooks Institute does.” (Visit www.memphis.edu/benhooks to learn more.)
NOTE: The Hooks Institute will host a gala, “Join Hands for Change,” Saturday, April 26th at 7 p.m. at the Hotel Memphis, 2625 Thousand Oaks Blvd. The event will highlight the American Civil Rights Movement’s influence on fashion, music and culture, and will honor Beverly Robertson, president of the National Civil Rights Museum.
Feb. 27-28 – Rhodes College’s Memphis Center will present a two-day conference titled “From Civil War to Civil Rights: Race, Region and the Making of Public Memory” Friday, Feb. 28, and Saturday, March 1. Bringing together historians, writers, teachers and artists, the conference explores the ways that the Civil War, the Civil Rights Movement, and the intervening years have shaped America’s understandings of race, region, the South, citizenship and identity. Free and open to the public, attendees are encouraged to register in advance at http://rhodes.edu/memphiscenterconference. The event begins with an opening reception at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 27, in the McCallum Ballroom of the Bryan Campus Life Center featuring the Rhodes Jazz Players in a celebration of Memphis jazz. Kate Masur, who teaches 19th century U.S. history at Northwestern University, will present the plenary lecture on Friday, Feb. 28, at 9 a.m. in Barret Library 051 on campus. The day’s events include presentations, master classes, a documentary, an evening reception, and the keynote address – “A Deeper Black: Race in America” by Ta-Nehisi Coates, senior editor for The Atlantic— at 5:30 p.m. in the McCallum Ballroom. The second day includes touring of selected destinations around the city. Also on view at the conference will be a gallery display of photography by Ernest Withers. For more information, contact: Dr. Charles McKinney, Associate Professor of History and Director of the African American Studies Program, at 901-843-3525; Email: mckinneyc@rhodes.edu. Or, Rin Abernathy, Administrative Assistant to the Memphis Center 901-843-3260; Email: abernathyr@rhodes.edu. Also, visit http://rhodes.edu/memphiscenterconference.
University of Memphis
Feb. 28 – “Lee Daniels’ The Butler” Film Showing at 7 p.m. in the University Center Theatre at the University of Memphis.
Bellevue Middle School
Feb. 28: “Bellevue Honors,” a formal award show, will honor African Americans who have made significant contributions to society. The New Tri-State Defender will be saluted in the areas of journalism and community service. Time: 8:30 am. More information: 901-416-4488 or 901-230-9356.
JEWEL Awards Banquet
Feb. 28: Lane College alumni and longtime WDIA radio personality Mark Stansbury will serve as master of ceremonies for the 13th Annual JEWEL Awards Banquet hosted by the Jackson Madison County African American Chamber of Commerce. The Black History Month banquet featuring singer Vickie Winans will be at Oman Arena, 179 Lane Ave. in Jackson. Sponsored by the City of Jackson, Lane College, West Tennessee Healthcare, along with West Tennessee Examiner, WFKX 96KIX, Brownsville Radio, News Talk WNWS and WOJG-FM 94.7 Bolivar. Floor dinner seating, $50 per person; concert lodge seating, $25. Tickets online: www.jmcaacc.org/buy-tickets.html. For more information: 731-424-2030.
American Red Cross
In the spirit of Dr. Charles Drew, an African-American and the first medical director of an American Red Cross blood bank, the Red Cross reminds eligible donors of the importance of a diverse blood supply. Patients are less likely to have complications from blood donated by someone with the same ethnicity. Donors of all types are encouraged to help save lives. Appointments 1-800-RED CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
Slave Haven
Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum (Burkle Estate) is located at 826 No. Second St. Museum hours: Monday – Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admissions: $10 adults; $8 students.
BUSINESS
Tri-State Defender
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February 27 - March 5, 2014
ON OUR WAY TO WEALTHY
Taxes: Making the most of refunds
With W-2s and 1099s in hand, most folks expecting a refund are lining up to file those returns. The doors are open to the many tax preparers who have waited patiently for the season to arrive. Once the money arrives there are many things that can be done with those much-anticipated dollars. Plan to get the most out of the money and improve your financial position. So, let’s discuss a few of the many options of spending the refund checks.
Checking, savings or money market account
One option is to save your refund check for a rainy day or emergency. Experts advise that savings should equal between three and six months of expenses for cushion in the event of layoffs or cutbacks. This rainy day or emergency fund is separate from other accounts to make sure that it is not spent or mingled with the rest of the funds. It is to be used for the mortgage, rent,
car repairs and such in times of need. Instead of spending every cent received, try placing some in a checking, Carlee McCullough savings or m o n e y market account. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) through direct deposit will place your money electronically into your account as instructed. The IRS will even divide your refund over multiple accounts with the completion of Form 8888, which is the Allocation of Refund Form. When sending money to multiple accounts make sure to use your tax preparer to insure that the correct boxes are checked on the tax form in addition to completing the Allocation of Refund Form. Verify that your bank, brokerage firm or credit union can and
will receive direct deposits.
Payment of rent or mortgage
Savings bonds
Savings bonds may be purchased in $50 increments up to $5,000.
IRA or 401k
Overall, most people do not feel that they are ever adequately prepared for retirement due to lack of a nest egg. Therefore, consider using part or all of the refund for placement in an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or a 401k. Whether you choose a Roth IRA, traditional IRA, a SEP IRA or 401k, planning for retirement is always a positive thing because retirement will be approaching faster than expected. Make sure to speak with your tax preparer in order to receive proper credit in the proper year because the contribution has to be made by certain established deadlines to qualify as a prior year contribution.
Pay down credit cards and other debt
Many people are faced with paying monthly payments on credit cards and loans with high interest rates. Paying the minimum on the accounts simply allows the interest to build and the balance does not decrease by much. But paying larger sums on the credit cards or loans helps to decrease the repayment time and save on interest accruing.
Priority payments include rent, mortgage and/or car notes. So protecting your basic comforts by paying on them with the refund is never a bad decision. If you are renting, saving for a down payment on a home is also another possibility. Home ownership is an excellent way to build wealth and now is a great time to buy. Interest rates are low and bargain properties are plentiful in the marketplace.
Car – epair or purchase
The decision to repair the old car or purchase a new car is a personal one that requires evaluation of several points. Is the refund enough to pay cash for the vehicle and not have a car note? Is the car note affordable? Can the old car be repaired reasonably and last a few more years? In order to save money it is best to
repair the older vehicle, if the repairs are not too frequent and not costly. But if the old car constantly needs attention and repair, then it may be time to bite the bullet and purchase a newer vehicle.
College fund
Whether you use a 529 College Savings Plan or simply place the money aside for the children’s college, there is rarely enough money saved for this event. Starting early is wise. With the rising cost of college tuition, children need as much help as possible paying for school. The 529 College Savings Plan offers potential tax benefits and does not have to be spent in your home state. Speak to your tax preparer or financial professional for advice on setting up a 529 College Savings Plan. (Contact Carlee McCullough, Esq., at 5308 Cottonwood Road, Suite 1A, Memphis, TN 38118, or email her at jstce4all@aol.com.)
MONEY MATTERS
Tax-deferred investments and early withdrawal Withdrawing funds from a tax-deferred retirement account before age 59½ generally triggers a 10 percent federal income tax penalty; all distributions are subject to ordinary income tax. However, there are certain situations in which you are allowed to make early withdrawals from a retirement account and avoid the tax penalty. IRAs and employer-sponsored retirement plans have different exceptions, although the regulations are similar.
IRA exceptions
The death of the IRA owner: Upon your death, your designated beneficiaries may begin taking distributions from your account. Beneficiaries
are subject to annual required minimum distributions. Disability: Under certain conditions, you may begin to Charles Sims Jr., CFP withdraw funds if you are disabled. Unreimbursed medical expenses: You can withdraw the amount you paid for unreimbursed medical expenses that exceed 10 percent of your adjusted gross income in a calendar year. Individuals older than 65 can claim expenses that surpass 7.5 percent of adjusted gross income through 2016.
Medical insurance: If you lost your job or are receiving unemployment benefits, you may withdraw money to pay for health insurance. Part of a substantially equal periodic payment (SEPP) plan: If you receive a series of substantially equal payments over your life expectancy, or the combined life expectancies of you and your beneficiary, you may take payments over a period of five years or until you reach age 59½, whichever is longer, using one of three payment methods set by the government. Any change in the payment schedule after you begin distributions may subject you to paying the 10 percent tax penalty. Qualified higher-education expenses for you and/or your dependents.
First home purchase, up to $10,000 (lifetime limit).
Employer-sponsored plan exceptions
The death of the plan owner: Upon your death, your designated beneficiaries may begin taking distributions from your account. Beneficiaries are subject to annual required minimum distributions. Disability: Under certain conditions, you may begin to withdraw funds if you are disabled. Part of a SEPP program (see above): If you receive a series of substantially equal payments over your life expectancy, or the combined life expectancies of you and your beneficiary, you may take
payments over a period of five years or until you reach age 59½, whichever is longer. Separation of service from your employer: Payments must be made annually over your life expectancy or the joint life expectancies of you and your beneficiary. Attainment of age 55: The payment is made to you upon separation of service from your employer and the separation occurred during or after the calendar year in which you reached the age of 55. Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO): The payment is made to an alternate payee under a QDRO. Medical care: You can withdraw the amount allowable as a medical expense deduction. To reduce excess contributions: Withdrawals can be
made if you or your employer made contributions over the allowable amount. To reduce excess elective deferrals: Withdrawals can be made if you elected to defer an amount over the allowable limit. If you plan to withdraw funds from a tax-deferred account, make sure to carefully examine the rules on exemptions for early withdrawals. For more information on situations that are exempt from the early- withdrawal income tax penalty, visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov. (Charles Sims Jr. is president/ CEO of The Sims Financial Group. Contact him at 901-682-2410 or visit www.SimsFinancialGroup.co m.)
WORKFORCE READY!
Think globally, act locally Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Herbert Lester
A Scottish town planner may have been the first person to use the concept, if not the exact words, back in the early 1900s: “Think globally, act locally.” Regardless of its origins or history, it needs to be an idea practiced by every person wanting to participate in Memphis’ share of the global economy. As workers, investors, inventors, innovators, entrepreneurs, business people or community members, we are
part and parcel of a global economy, and it is not waiting for any of us. Thomas Friedman, in his 2005 bestseller, Herbert “ T h e Lester World is Flat,” tells this fable to illustrate the urgency of the matter: Every morning in Africa, a
gazelle wakes up. It knows it must run faster than the fastest lion or it will be killed. Every morning a lion wakes up. It knows it must outrun the slowest gazelle or it will starve to death. It doesn’t matter whether you are a lion or a gazelle: when the sun comes up, you’d better be running. I first heard this tale during commencement exercises at my alma mater as part of the graduation address. The speaker’s point was clear: globalization has made our world much more competitive, and technology has made it appear
much smaller. People all over the world are looking for new ideas and innovative solutions to problems old and new. For example, a group of students at Rice University in Texas are working with a Brazilian oil company on an idea the students developed as a class project. They are building “islands” for oil workers and their families to live on while laboring offshore on oil rigs. Just this past Sunday (Feb. 23rd), I shared worship with a fascinating group of people as we celebrated African American History Month by lifting
up the achievements of people making our world a better place. One woman headed a local foundation that has led the way in revitalizing a historic community institution and the neighborhood surrounding it, drawing tourists from all over the world. Another young couple created a new brand of gourmet dog food and animal treats, which is now being sold in a national pet store chain. A dynamic young man combined his love of photography and sports and went from sports writer to editor of a suburban newspaper.
Each day, each person hit the ground running, making our world a better place by improving themselves. My message to you is “think globally.” While we must certainly be responsible for this world in which we live and its resources, there are no limits on potential and possibility when it comes to solving the problems that face us all over the world. “Act locally.” Start right where you are by honing skills and focusing on what interests you and how it can benefit your community.
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RELIGION
Tri-State Defender
February 27 - March 5, 2014
LIVING THE LIFE I LOVE
Setting boundaries for healing and helping
The Memphis Living Legends
2014
Dear Lucy: I have a friend who has had back trouble for some 20 years following an accident. She has back pain and has gone to lots of doctors and is overweight from lack of exercise. She has now started exploring alternative therapies that she won’t do. The problem is that she is so negative, whiney and mean and has nothing good to say about anything or anybody. I Lucy help her out a lot, travel with her Shaw and work hard to be her friend and support. But she really doesn’t want to be well. She just wants to complain. I hate to desert her but it’s making me sick! I am the only one left who caters to her and is there for her. Any ideas. – Pained
Dear Pained: I think this is about both of you. She has set her boundaries for healing and you need to set some boundaries for helping. About her: Many of us have a low threshold for pain and it’s worse when we have to live with it daily. It can make you irritable and short tempered. But there are lots of things out there for pain beyond drugs. There is exercise with gentle progressive movement; diet control; prayer and meditation; opportunities to reach out to others by phone, letters and other acts of encouragement. These don’t have to be expensive. However, they require three big things...righteous desire, discipline and patience. And often these are the big lessons that chronic conditions come to teach us. Righteous desire is about the need to want to do what’s right for ourselves and for others. Even when we have physical challenges we can still find ways to be present for others. Health conditions that linger sometimes have secondary benefits that folk don’t want to give up. The attention, the control of others, the not having to work, the excuses, holding others hostage to you...all of these are benefits that become a part of one’s identity. Who would she be if suddenly she was no longer this sick, angry, helpless, dependent, controlling person? As for you, who would you be if you were no longer the “saint” who gets to tolerate her and whine in your own way about it? Where is the glory in caring for someone and growing internal resentment that you have to hide? Maybe you signed on to help and be a friend but not at the cost of nurturing bitterness in your soul. Why expose yourself to a toxic personality? Are you a helper or an enabler? Are you a rescuer? If you were not busy rescuing her, what would you be doing? Rescuing someone else? How do you take care of yourself and refresh or clear the toxicity from your own system? Negativity can be poisonous. Begin to speak the truth to your friend. Ask her if she truly wants to heal. Ask her if she wants to find some alternative ways to entertain herself and serve others. As for you, perhaps you may find ways to help her from a respectable distance. Maybe you can take pencil and paper when you visit and have a letter-writing day with her. Or get the church sick list and have a phone-calling day. Have a “turn off the TV day.” Have a Gratitude Day. Get creative and have a prayer day for your city, the weather, our schools. Taking our minds off of ourselves, or our need to rescue, is therapeutic. It’s time for both of you to set boundaries. Get wood, nails and a hammer and build the fence. Better yet, ask God to put a hedge around both of you! Blessings,
Drawing from verses 10 through 12 in the 14th chapter of Exodus, the Rev. Dr. L. LaSimba Gray, pastor of New Sardis Baptist Church, delivered the ʻInspirational Message” during the churchʼs annual Living Legends salute last Sunday (Feb. 23rd). His theme was ʻThe Fear Factor.ʼ
Then and now…
Eleven years ago, Dr. Erma L. Clanton initiated the Living Legends salute to teach children of the struggles, perseverance and accomplishment of giants who walk among them in the community. During the 2014 tribute, Clanton delivered words of gratitude. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley)
PRAISE CONNECT -A WEEKLY DIRECTORY OF MINISTERS & CHURCHES-
METROPOLITAN BAPTIST CHURCH Dr. Reginald L. Porter Sr., Pastor
767 Walker Avenue Memphis, TN 38126
ASSOCIATE MINISTERS
901-946-4095 fax 948-8311
Rev. Davena Young Porter Rev. Linda A Paige Rev. Luecretia Matthews SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES
SUNDAY Sunday School .....................8:30 am Morning Worship Service ....10:00am
WEDNESDAY Bible Study .........................10:30 am Mid-Day Prayer Meeting .....12 noon Evening Prayer Meeting........7:00pm
FRIDAY Cable Channel 17 ............... 8:00pm
Dr. & Rev. Mrs. Reginald Porter
“Cast your burden on the LORD, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.”
– Psalm 55:22
Ushered into the sanctuary by the New Sardis Royal African Choir, guest drummer John Sullivan and the New Sardis Royal Dancers, the 2014 Living Legends honorees take a collective bow. This yearʼs salute noted the contributions of the 1968 Memphis Sanitation Workers, the Memphis State Eight and these individuals: Edith H. Kelley-Green, Timothy McGuire, the Rev. James L. Netters Sr., George Sanders, Jesse Turner Jr., Miriam DeCosta-Willis and Ruby R. Wharton.
Inspiring…
Lucy
(Check out Lucy Shaw’s website at http://www.heartworks4u.com. Send your questions 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 901907-0260 or go to her web site www.heartworks4u.com.)
‘African Royalty’…
Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. —Matthew 7: 1-2
Attend the Church of your choice
I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. —Phillipians 4:13
ENTERTAINMENT Tri-State Defender, Thursday, February 27 - March 5, 2014, Page 9
STUFF HAPPENS, THEN WHAT?
Bringing Black Theatre to life
Mom seeks help after nine year old sneaks out
The Dilemma: A parent wrote to say that she was recently arrested because she spanked her 9-year-old daughter, who sneaked out the house and returned home at 1 a.m. Worried Yvette about her daughGeorge ter’s absence, the mother had called police to place a missing person report and was told she had to wait 24 hours. According to the mother, she did not whip her daughter unmercifully. Nevertheless, the daughter called the police after the spanking. Now the mother wants to know how she can forgive her daughter’s betrayal and how they can continue to live under the same roof since the daughter refuses to obey the rules of the house and considers measures such as timeouts to be “BS.” “I believe in spanking if you are hard-headed or disobedient,” the mother wrote. “Is there anything wrong with spanking your child as long as you don’t beat them?” The mother ends by writing, “Remember when your parents would say, ‘I brought you in this world, I’ll take you out!’And we got in line and obeyed.” She asks, “How do you think I should discipline my children … if spanking, punishing and timeout are not working or illegal? None of them seem to work for my child. Please advise.”
The response: In most states, whipping. spanking and especially the kind of “whuppings” my Daddy gave me are illegal. Back then, I thought he was evil, mean and barbaric! But now as an adult, I realize he made me a better, civilized human being and a productive citizen. I know most of us discipline our children as we were taught. I’m also guilty! But I hated the whippings! I’d rather receive a whipping than be on punishment for a month; even though I couldn’t sit down for two weeks. I stopped spanking my children at the age of 13. However, in today’s society, I don’t believe corporal punishment is necessary. The children/youth of today are a different breed. I would talk to your daughter and explain the errors of her ways. That was a bold and serious move for her to sneak out the house and return at 1 a.m., especially at 9 years old. To be honest, it’s serious at any age. You didn’t mention the father. Where is he? I suggest that you seek counseling. Your daughter obviously is not afraid of the consequences of being disobedient, or the danger of the streets. You need to get a handle on this now because in a couple of years, she will be running your house, in juvenile detention, or, sadly, dead. I recommend counseling, involving her church and other extracurricular activities to keep her busy. You may want to invest in an alarm system (motion, doors and windows). And foremost, don’t forget to pray. (Stuff Happens, Then What? is an advice and relationship column that answers questions about life issues, situations and challenges. Send questions and dilemmas to StuffHappensThenWhat@yahoo.com. All parties will remain anonymous.)
River City Links partners with Hattiloo Theatre
First place winner Markuitta Washington, a Rust College alumnae, celebrates with multiplatinum hip-hop producer Drumma Boy, one of the Drop the Mic Poetry Slam judges. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)
Young poets connect the dots between hip-hop and history National Civil Rights Museum hosts Drop the Mic Poetry Slam
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
South Main was alive as more than 300 people watched 26 young poets bridge gaps between hip-hop, millennials and past civil rights movements at the National Civil Rights Museum Drop the Mic Poetry Slam. The Saturday night (Feb. 22nd) slam, part of the National Civil Rights Museum’s spring 2014 grand reopening events, was a creative outlet for youth throughout the region to express their views on freedom and involve themselves in current civil rights issues. The theme for the night was “My Freedom Is,” where students from as far as Bolivar, Miss. performed poems that addressed issues such as slavery, segregation, war, poverty and education.
First place winner Markuitta Washington, a Rust College alumnae, was ecstatic about winning. “I’m so grateful that the judges thought what I had to say about freedom and civil rights is meaningful; that’s what means the most to me,” said Washington. First, second and third place prizes were awarded in two age categories, with the top prize being $1,000 and a family membership to the National Civil Rights Museum. Students performed their original pieces for a panel of celebrity judges, including Memphis poet and radio personality Aisha Raison, Memphis native and multi-platinum hip-hop producer Drumma Boy and Danny Simmons, co-creator of HBO’s “Def Poetry Jam.” “They were talking about all
the work that their grandparents and great grandparents did for the freedoms they have today and how appreciative they are of it,” said Simmons, explaining that he was most intrigued by how the students related historic aspects of the civil rights movement to current issues. “They brought some substance to their poetry; I loved every moment of it.” The winning students will perform their pieces at the National Civil Rights Museum’s grand reopening Community Day celebration on April 5th, 2014. (For more information, contact the National Civil Rights Museum Grand Reopening event coordinator Latrivia Nelson at 901-2780881.)
In ʻTrue Blue – Memphis Lawmen of 1948,ʼ local filmmaker George Tillman Jr. (left) explores African-American police history, drawing upon a template by Billy Withers (center) and Andrew “Rome” Withers, sons of famed civil rights photographer, Ernest Withers Sr., a member of the ʻClass of 48.ʼ Police Director Toney Armstrong is featured in the film. (Photo: Courtesy of Rome Withers Photography)
‘True Blue – Memphis Lawmen of 1948’ Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Tony Jones
Local filmmaker George Tillman ’s Creative Arts film company screened his second completed documentary at Studio On The Square Wednesday night. “True Blue – Memphis Lawmen of 1948” explores the impact of the historic 1948 hiring of the city’s first African-American policemen, including their influence on the African-American directors that would later run the department. Along with Tillman’s earlier Cinematic Arts release, “True Blue – Memphis Lawmen of 1948” is being prepared for presentation at Langston University in Oklahoma and Chicago State University in March. Arrangements also are being finalized for presentations in Waukegan, Ill. and New York before submission on the independent film festival circuit. The “Class of ’48” depicted by “True Blue” included a dozen men. The move to put them to work actually was not the first effort to overcome the dual society that had long marked the department. The department had turned to African Americans when it was
decimated by the Yellow Fever. Still, many historians credit the 1948 group as pioneers relative to race, employment and public and peer perception. “True Blue” was completed from the original template by brothers Billy and Andrew “Rome” Withers. Their father, Ernest Withers Sr., began what would become a vigorous public life as one of the “blacks in blue” before going on to become an internationally accredited civil rights photographer. “He (Ernest Withers) is also a mentor of mine. An esteemed mentor,” said Tillman. A coup for the film, he says, is the inclusion of the two surviving members of the small original force – Roscoe McWilliams, who left the force after two years, and Capt. Jerry Williams, who remained until retirement. Both now are in their late 80s and meeting them was “an intimidating honor,” Tillman said. “You cannot be faced with living history such as they represent without being moved. It’s but one part of this story. It is amazing to hear and revisit what they had to go through, out fighting for law and order every day and night and then having to confront illegal and discriminatory activity on the
jobs that they based their families’ livelihoods on. It’s fascinating.” Among the other notable elements of the film’s story, said Tillman, are, “The reactions of the (Memphis Police Department’s) black officers after it was learned that the black officer guarding Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. had been pulled from his assignments on the night Dr. King was assassinated and the reaction in the department.” In making “True Blue – Memphis Lawmen of 1948,” much attention was given to exploring how the 1948 breakthrough influenced later developments such as the hiring of the first AfricanAmerican police director, James Ivy. An interview with current director Toney Armstrong speaks to that influence. “It’s very moving how he (Armstrong) recounts the reality of what that legacy means to him personally and how it influenced the growth of the department and this city,” said Tillman. “I hope we’ve done a job that is worthy of the history we are trying to preserve.” Tillman’s earlier release is titled, “Two Million Women Marched: The March, The Impact, The Progress.”
The River City (Tenn.) Chapter of The Links, Inc. and the Hattiloo Theatre recently brought Black theatre to life with a four-day exhibit of the Black Theatre Museum at Lemoyne Owen College’s Renaissance Center. The traveling museum, which opened to the public on Feb. 14th after a ribbon cutting ceremony, featured depictions and exhibits from four eras of theatrical performances: Reconstruction, Early 20th Century Vaudeville, Civil Rights and Afrocentrism. Visitors scrolled through and read about the history behind musicals such as “Ain’t Misbehavin,” “Dream Girls” and “Eubie.” They also viewed information about the careers of famous actors such as Ira Frederick Aldridge, one of the first African Americans to achieve stardom in theatre. “Most peoStudents from ple are Hollis F. Price shocked to out people School, which find like W.E.B. is located on Dubois were in the campus of The involved Arts and (that) LeMoyne-Owen Charles S. College (LOC), Dutton, who a big Aucould be seen was gust Wilson soaking up the performer, was prison for information in in murder, but the exhibit. was such a great actor, he got pardoned. Not only did he get pardoned, he got a full ride to Yale,” said Ekundayo Bandele, the director of the Hattiloo Theatre. Students from Hollis F. Price School, which is located on campus of The LeMoyne-Owen College (LOC), could be seen soaking up the information in the exhibit. Carla Stotts Hills, president of The River City (Tenn.) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, said student involvement has been the goal for The Links co-founder Margaret Roselle Hawkins made the Arts a main focus of programming. “We decided to bring this to South Memphis so we could get youth involved in seeing our culture and it being Black History Month, it couldn’t be a better for us to Essence Davis, time present this a 9th grader at theatre,” said Hollis Price, Hills. Essence said the expe- Davis, a 9th rience at The grader at HolPrice, said Black Theatre lis the experience Museum was a at The Black journey of dis- Theatre Museum was a jourcovery. ney of discovery. “I don’t know a lot about blacks in the theatre, so I think this will be a good experience for me to expand my knowledge about what’s going on in the community, especially with Hattiloo Theatre,” said Davis. The only admission required was a donation to the Mid-South Food Bank. By the end of the exhibit, The Links were able to donate 11 boxes of food. “We are so grateful to The Links for remembering history and culture to feed our souls, but also remembering the Mid-South Food Bank to feed our bodies,” said Marsha Wells with the Mid-South Food Bank. LOC President Dr. Johnnie B. Watson said he was proud to have the exhibit on the HBCU college campus. “The River City Links, Hattiloo, the Mid-South Food Bank and The LeMoyne Owen College, this is a winning combination,” said Watson.
Ekundayo Bandele, director of the Hattiloo Theatre, was the point man as visitors viewed the Black Theatre Museum at LeMoyne Owen Collegeʼs Renaissance Center. (Courtesy photo)
ENTERTAINMENT
Page 10
February 27 - March 5, 2014
OPENING THIS WEEK
Kam’s Kapsules:
Weekly Previews That Make Choosing a Film Fun For Ben, played by Mike Epps, things quickly take a turn for the worse in Director Philippe Calandʼs “Repentance,” a psychological thriller set against a backdrop of kidnapping and murder. Epps is joined by a talented cast of characters, including Forest Whitaker (Angel Sanchez). (Courtesy photo)
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Kam Williams
For movies opening Feb. 28, 2014
BIG BUDGET FILMS
“Non-Stop” (PG-13 for sensuality, profanity, intense violence and drug use) Action thriller about a federal air marshal (Liam Neeson) who springs into action aboard a transatlantic flight from New York to London after receiving text messages threatening to kill a passenger every 20 minutes until a $150 million ransom is deposited into an offshore account. Cast includes Julianne Moore, Lupita Nyong’o, Nate Parker and Anson Mount. (In English and German with subtitles)
“Repentance” (R for profanity, violence and torture) Forest Whitaker stars in this psychological thriller, set in New Orleans, as a troubled man at the end of his rope who impulsively takes his therapist hostage. (Anthony Mackie). Featuring Nicole Ari Parker, Sanaa Lathan and Mike Epps.
“Son of God” (PG-13 for graphic violence) Biblical epic chronicling the teachings, miracles and life of Jesus Christ (Diogo Morgado) from His birth through death and resurrection. With Roma Downey as Mary, Joe Coen as Joseph, Greg Hicks as Pontius Pilate, Sebastian Knapp as John the Baptist, Paul Knops as Adam and Darcie as Eve.
INDEPENDENT & FOREIGN FILMS
“Almost Human” (Unrated) Sci-fi horror flick about a guy (Josh Ethier) who disappears in a flash of bright light only to return to town just as mysteriously two years later, right be-
fore the start of a string of grisly murders. With Graham Skipper, Vanessa Leigh and Susan T. Travers. “The Bag Man” (R for violence, sexuality and profanity) Multi-layered mystery revolving around a courier (John Cusack) who finds himself trailed by the cops and mobsters after being directed by a crime boss (Robert De Niro) to pick up and deliver a valuable package without examining its contents. Supporting cast includes Rebecca Da Costa, Sticky Fingaz, Crispin Glover and Dominic Purcell.
“Chlorine” (Unrated) Dysfunctional family dramedy, set in suburban New Jersey, about a materialistic matriarch (Kyra Sedgwick) more concerned about keeping up with the Joneses than with the welfare of her offspring or her exasperated husband (Vincent D’Onofrio). With Rhys Coiro, Tom Sizemore and Elisabeth Rohm.
“Ernest & Celestine” (PG for scary moments) Oscar-nominated adventure (for Best Animated Feature) about the friendship unexpectedly forged between an orphaned mouse (Mackenzie Foy) and a shy and retiring bear (Forest Whitaker). Voice cast includes Lauren Bacall, Paul Giamatti, William H. Macy, Nick Offerman and Jeffrey Wright.
“Hair Brained” (PG-13 for sexuality, profanity, nudity, crude humor, and teen smoking, drug use and alcohol consumption) Unlikelybuddies comedy about a 14 year-old genius (Alex Wolff) who grudgingly befriends a middle-aged late starter (Brendan Fraser) when they meet while entering college as freshman. With Fred Melamed, Julia Garner and Greta Lee. “Kids for Ca$h” (PG-13 for profanity and
mature themes) Pay-to-play documentary chronicling the shocking 2008 scandal in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania where crooked judges put innocent juveniles behind bars in return for kickbacks from a privately-owned penitentiary in need of inmates. “The Lunchbox” (PG for smoking and mature themes) Romance drama, set in Mumbai, about how a mistaken meal delivery leads to the courting of a neglected housewife (Nimrat Kaur) by a grieving widower (Irrfan Khan). Support cast includes Denzil Smith, Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Nakul Vaid. (In Hindi and English with subtitles) “Odd Thomas” (Unrated) Horror comedy based on the Dean Koontz best-seller of the same name about a short-order chef (Anton Yelchin) whose ability to see dead people comes in handy when his idyllic hometown is invaded by an army of ghosts bent on mass destruction. With Willem Dafoe, Addison Timlin and Leonor Varela.
“Stalingrad” (R for violence) World War II drama, set in a devastated Stalingrad, about the star-crossed love affair of a young Russian woman (Yanina Studilina) and a high-ranking Nazi officer (Thomas Kretschmann). With Pyotr Fyodorov, Dmitriy Lysenkov and Aleksey Barabash. (In Russian and German with subtitles)
“Two” Lives (Unrated) Flashback drama, set in the wake of the fall of the Berlin Wall, about an orphan (Juliane Kohler) who belatedly discovers that she was the product of the experimental forced mating of a local woman (Liv Ullmann) and a Nazi soldier stationed in occupied Norway during World War II. Cast includes Sven Nordin, Ken Duken and Rainer Bock. (In German, Norwegian, English, Russian and Danish with subtitles)
Tri-State Defender
HOROSCOPES
Feb. 27-March 5, 2014
ARIES Finding a way to do it better than others is not going to be hard this week. Share your wisdom with other seekers. All who receive your word will benefit this week. Happiness rules! Don’t waste a moment of this perfect week on any negative thoughts. TAURUS Strong vibrations bring a series of dramatic interactions with others this week. Practice your charm. Let it come from the heart, and let your energy carry you upwards to your best, highest self. Keep emotions calm. Let the warmth from inside of you touch others and thereby make your world better. GEMINI You’ll be energizing and inspiring others this week as you speak what’s on your mind regarding spiritual matters and masters. The quality of your thoughts is very pure; write yourself a love letter. Move slowly with explanations. Others will not understand as quickly as you think they should. CANCER Rev up your engines. This is a fine week for making progress with projects that you’ve got in the works. Your energy is high and your mind is clear. Use every advantage this week to finish up your works. Look for love in the right places. Know the difference between love and lust. LEO Educate those around you in the area of personal growth. Their improvement will bring benefits to you. Humor in communication is the key. Humor in introspection is a must. VIRGO This week romance is begins to percolate. Enjoy your feelings and let your brain relax. Suspend all judgments of others. Being stern won’t work for you this week. LIBRA Romance will find you this week. Don’t be looking the other way. Your “rap” is especially strong. Make as many of those important phone calls as possible. People will respond. They are waiting to be receptive, SCORPIO This week should bring an opportunity to further your education, don’t pass it up. Pay special attention to details at work. A friend needs your support. Find joy in giving it. SAGITTARIUS You and your mate should increase your saving for the future this week. Future plans should be spotlighted. A relationship is likely to take a serious turn. Be open to making an unusual purchase. CAPRICORN Don’t take any big gambles this week, the time is not right for a flight into the unknown. A newfound harmony is in store for you and your mate. Your mate will understand your fears. AQUARIUS The air can be cleared easily. Admit your need for help. Seek understanding. You’ll help another by seeking help from them. Communication problems will smooth themselves out. PISCES You and your partner are on the same wavelength. If you are presented with a contract this week, it’s an ideal week to reach an agreement. Make the important phone call to set things up. Source: NNPA News Service
COMMUNITY
Tri-State Defender
Page 11
February 27 - March 5, 2014
Continuing the support….
At Annesdale Cherokee Missionary Baptist Church last Sunday (Feb. 23rd), the locked-out Kelloggʼs workers netted the Keep Your Eyes on the Prize award. Pictured (l-r): the Rev. Dwight Montgomery (host pastor) and Kevin Bradshaw, president of Bakery, Confectionary Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union Local 252G. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley)
Cane Creek Baptist Church was the venue last Thursday for the Solidarity Rally to show support for locked-out Kelloggʼs workers. Those present included the Rev. Leonard Dawson, host pastor; James Nelson, minister of music at Annesdale Cherokee; Kevin Bradshaw and Bishop E. Lynn Brown.
‘Children doing everything right’ at 2014 Black History Knowledge Bowl O
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Kelvin Cowans Mayor A C Wharton Jr.
Memphis takes crime-fighting team on the road
White Station teen included in Cities United inaugural conference
Mayor A C Wharton Jr. – and a Memphis team committed to targeting the highestrisk neighborhoods and engaging African-American males in finding solutions to end violence – traveled to New Orleans to be among like-minded crime fighters this week. The draw was the inaugural convening of Why We Can’t Wait: A Conference for Mayors Committed to Reducing Violence Related Deaths of African-American Males. The convener was Cities United, an initiative of the National League of Cities launched in 2011 under the leadership of Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter and New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu, Focused on preventing and reducing violence among African-American men and boys, the conference was set for Feb. 26-27 at the New Orleans Marriott. Besides Wharton, Memphis team members included Bishop Mays (director, Memphis Gun Down); Kerri Campbell and Patrick Hendricks (Mayor’s Innovation Delivery Team); and 17year-old Mathieu White (Memphis Gun Down Social Media Team). Wharton and White mixed with mayors and representatives from 37 cities at the national press conference where the Cities United agenda was rolled out Wednesday. White, a junior at White Station High School, is an active member of the Memphis Gun Down Social Media Team, a group of area high school students who use social media and events to bring awareness to their peers regarding Memphis Gun Down’s youth gun violence reduction efforts. White also joined other youth leaders from around the country in a Youth Dialog Wednesday night. He was penciled in to participate in strategy sessions, alongside the rest of the Memphis team, over the course of the conference. A major focus of Cities United is to help mayors focus on prevention rather than prosecution, and intervention rather than incarceration. (For more information, visit: www.nlc.org.)
ne after another, they poured into the Booker T. Washington High School auditorium last Saturday (Feb. 22nd) led by their team coaches, all Memphis Police Department officers – chiefs, colonels, majors, sergeants and the like.
Sworn to protect and serve, these mighty MPD men and women added an addendum named Teach to that oath. Fully dressed in their uniforms, with weapons, handcuffs and badges in place, they jokingly and warmly readied their teams for intellectual combat. Tucked in the various corners of the auditorium, the 2014 Black History Knowledge Bowl teams gathered in circles discussing the historical task at hand. “Where are the news channels of our city to witness us shining the light on our children when they are doing everything right like today,” said Police Director Toney Armstrong. “It saddens me that it seems we only run a camera up to their face only when they are doing everything wrong. … Thank you (Tri-State Defender) for joining with us to celebrate these kids who have done everything that we have asked them to do.” Noting that there would be no dunking of basketballs or throwing of footballs, Armstrong spoke to the power of exercising the brain. “I grew up with friends who were great athletes and if you ask them they’d tell you that I wasn’t. However those same people will also agree to the fact that I was smart. I will take that any day of the week,” said Armstrong. During the 2014 version of the annual event the Memphis Police Department Crime Prevention Unit served host, time keepers, judges, security and team Coaches. Oh yeah, they came also came up with the questions. “These kids minds are growing stronger every year, so we have to really search out harder questions because nowadays kids are reading more, which is good, said Major Sandra Green. Here are some of the questions that were asked: “Who was the first African-American woman to sing on the radio?” “Who authored the novel ‘Roots?’ “Who was the first African-American woman elected to Congress? “Who was the youngest person ever to become Memphis Police Department Director?” Armstrong was a tone-setter throughout, keeping it light when he felt it needed. “I want you all to know that I have the names of every child participating here today,” he said at one point. “If you don’t get the question right that we have in there about me, I will be giving your parents a call.” Police, squad cars and large groups of people were all over the place, but there was no crime scene, no yellow tape. From Armstrong’s viewpoint, it’s the kind of setting he envisioned associated with MPD’s Community Outreach Program. “I wanted to improve how the public views us and how we communicate and are involved with them,” said Armstrong. “I don’t want it to be that every time people see a bunch of police cars that something negative has happened. “We are the most visible profession in the world and I want our kids to look at us not only as a resource but also that many of us came from the same environment. I’m so proud of these kids and these officers. They have done an excellent job.” The police stations, officers and high schools represented were Old Allen, Colonel F. Garrett (Trezevant); Tillman, Colonel T. Landrum (East High); Raines, Colonel J. Kirkwood (Whitehaven, Westwood, Mitchell); South Main, Colonel R. Gary (Booker T. Washington); Mt. Moriah, Colonel S. Hampton (Mt. Moriah); Airways, Colonel M. Balee (Hamilton, Melrose); Crump, Colonel R. Houston (Purple Thunder & Lightning); and Ridgeway, Colonel J. Ryall (Ridgeway High). (Kelvin Cowans can be reached at (kelvincowans@hotmail.com)
The competition was serious but friendly at the 2014 Black History Knowledge Bowl.
The Airways Precinct Team, pictured with Officer April Colbert, finished first in the 2014 Black History Knowledge Bowl. The Ridgeway Precinct Team placed second, followed by the Mt. Moriah Precinct Team.
Major Sandra Green holding up the dayʼs program. Police Director Toney Armstrong heaped praise on all the participating officers. (Photos: Kelvin Cowans)
Page 12
Legal Notices
NOTICE TO BIDDER(S)
Shelby County Government is soliciting Seal Bids for the provision of Construction Services to provide asphalt resurfacing and associated pavement markings for various roads in Shelby County Tennessee. The Seal Bid is located on the Countyʼs website at www.shelbycountytn.gov, click the link “Department” at the top, then P for the Purchasing Department, ten click on the link “Bids.” DUE WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19, 2014 AT 2:30 PM
SBI-000244 - 2014 STATE AIDASPHALT RESURFACING PROJECT
Voluntary Pre-Bid Conference: A pre-bid conference will be held at 9:00 AM, Friday, March 7, 2014 at the following location:
Shelby County Roads and Engineering Department, Conference Room, 6449 Haley Road, Memphis, TN 38134.
Shelby County is an equal opportunity affirmative action employer, drug-free with policies of non-discrimination on the basis of race, sex, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or military service. THE RIGHT TO REJECT ANY AND ALL BIDS IS RESERVED By order of MARK H. LUTTRELL, JR., SHELBY COUNTY MAYOR SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT
NOTICE TO CONSULTANT ENGINEERS REGARDING A REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING AND INSPECTION (CEI) SERVICES
February 27, 2014
The City Of Memphis, Division of Engineering, an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer, seeks to retain the services of professional engineering consulting firms to provide expertise in Construction Engineering and Inspection (CEI) services on the project listed below which is anticipated to enter the construction phase in the second half of 2014. This project is being funded by the National Highway Performance Program (NHPP) and Surface Transportation Program (STP) as a Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) Locally Managed Project. This project shall adhere to all applicable Federal and State, procedures and regulations. The professional consulting engineering firms must be on TDOTʼs pre-approved list and must have unlimited status. The method of payment shall be lump sum and the scope of work may include but not be limited to construction inspection, surveying, materials testing and reporting for the following project: SR-57 (US 72) (Poplar Avenue), from east of Sweetbriar to I-240: Widen the existing three lane road to four lands
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and widen the existing one lane Sweetbriar ramp to Poplar to two lanes. TDOT PIN #110296.00, (City of Memphis Project PW01181).
Firms (or teams) may request consideration by submitting a letter of interest, along with one copy of an abbreviated “Statement of Qualifications” for the firm (or team) to: Mark McGuire, Project Manager, Division of Engineering, 125 N. Main, Suite 644, Memphis, TN, 38103. All letters of interest and abbreviated SOQs must be received on or before 3:00 p.m. Central Time, March 21, 2014.
The abbreviated SOQ will be used to make a short list of applicants. The firms that are short listed will then be invited to submit a more detailed SOQ which will be graded by a committee established by the Engineering Division. The abbreviated SOQ must include a letter expressing an interest to be considered for the project, must be no more than 15 pages and only needs to contain the following information: 1. General background about the firm(s) – history, office locations, number of staff, etc. 2. A list of projects with a similar size and scope as the proposed work. 3. The current amount of work the firm has under contract with TDOT and the City of Memphis. 4. The City encourages the use of firms that are listed on TDOTʼs certified Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) list. The firm that is submitting the SOQ should either list that they are certified DBE firm or state whether they anticipate using DBE firms as a sub-consultant or not.
Information pertaining to TDOT prequalification procedures, list of pre-qualified firms and certified DBEs, TDOTʼs standard procurement policy, and additional information can be found at this internet address www.tdot.state.tn.us/consultantinfo.htm. Interested firms without internet access may obtain this information by calling Ms. Paula Johnson at (615)7414460 or by email at Paula.Johnson@tn.gov .
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SPORTS Tri-State Defender, Thursday, February 27 - March 5, 2014, Page 13
COMMENTARY
GRIZZ TRACK
Sorry haters, Jason Collins, Michael Sam coming out does matter theGrio
by Michael Arceneau Of all the irritating reactions to a public figure coming out, the most frustrating for me is, “If you wanna be gay, be gay, but stop telling us about it.” People often make the mistake of assuming their opinion on a given issue applies to the majority. This is a self-involved way to look at things and unless you’re Mariah Carey, you don’t get to live on your private planet. Besides, more often than not, a person who echoes that sentiment is being cowardly about the way they really feel. Personally, I like people who give it to me straight, no chaser. Like, “You and your affliction will result in you spending all of eternity being roasted over Satan’s fireplace in Prince’s assless pants.” I may not agree with the assertion, but I can appreciate its forthrightness. That is not the case with the sect that just loves to say in protest to every coming out story, “NO ONE CARES ABOUT YOUR SEXUALITY!” One can’t help but think anyone who argues this is wallowing in their own stupidity. Honestly, anyone with a basic understanding of where we are in this country in terms of gay rights should be able to understand why these revelations continue to matter. But if you truly are dead set on pretending to not know why public figures – and in this case, athletes specifically, coming out is a big deal – I’m going to play along. With respect to Jason Collins, he is the first openly gay NBA player ever – and he’s presently playing on a 10-day contract. Likewise, Michael Sam is making a lot of headlines for potentially becoming the first openly gay NFL player, but he has yet to be drafted and already, he’s reportedly dropped 70 spots in the draft the day after his announcement. But you know, as the foolish say, it’s so “cool to be gay now.” Both Collins and Sam directly challenge the stereotype that all gay men are effeminate and have no credible place in the hyper-masculine world of professional sports. Furthermore, the two openly gay athletes in professional sports will help defuse the myth that LGBT people are constantly walking around aroused, just waiting to prove some cocky straight man right about everyone on the planet desiring him. As black men, Collins, Sam, and even WWE Wrestler Darren Young, are adding nuance to the often one-note depiction of African-American gay men in our culture. These men will inspire others like them to come out and be themselves. Their significance should not be discounted over a few feigning indifference about sexual orientation – especially with the casual and not so casual homophobia pouring out in the wake of their respective revelations. Just this week, my eyes nearly fell of their sockets after reading an essay entitled “Michael Sam And The Attack On Heterosexuality In Pro Sports.” J.R. Gamble writes: “Collins is actually playing in the NBA today because he is gay and possibly taking jobs away from heterosexual males who may be fringe players but don’t have that extra ‘gay’ trait which elevates normal men to icons now. Replace “gay” with black and “heterosexual males” with “white dudes” and laugh at this black man’s grandiose display of tragic irony. Then there is Washington lobbyist Jack Burkman, who on Monday said he is preparing legislation that would ban gay athletes from joining the National Football League. In a statement, Burkman writes: “We are losing our decency as a nation. Imagine your son being forced to shower with a gay man. That’s a horrifying prospect for every mom in the country. What in the world has this nation come to?” This country was stolen from its original inhabits and built on the backs of African slaves, but a gay dude showering with his teammates is stripping America of its “decency.” These are only a few examples, but there others are readily available (ask Arizona, Idaho and Kansas). Progress has been made, but marriage equality in a few states alone is not enough. We have to be able to be ourselves on the field and on the stage and everywhere else without fear. We’re not there yet, hence why people come out and why they’ll continue to. If you “don’t care,” congratulations…but quit pretending it doesn’t matter.
Brothers Marc Gasol of the Memphis Grizzlies and Pau Gasol of the Los Angeles Lakers experienced one of their periodic in-season match-ups on at the FedExForum on Wednesday night. Memphisʼ Gasol (right) scored 14 points and hauled down 12 rebounds, helping the Grizz withstand a late rally by the Lakers, who got 17 points and 10 rebounds from their Gasol – a former Memphis standout.
Grizz forward Zach Randolph had 13 points and 7 rebounds as the Memphis Grizzlies avoided the upset bid of Pau Gasol and the Kobe Bryant-less Los Angeles Lakers at the FedExForum on Wednesday. (Photos: Warren Roseborough
Tigers escape Temple’s pesky Owls The stretch run of the American Athletic Conference men’s basketball season is shaping up as a monster for the University of Memphis, with games ahead against Louisville, Cincinnati and SMU. On paper Temple hardly looked frightening, yet they scared the hoot out of the Tigers last Saturday (Feb. 22nd) at the FedExForum. Pushed to overtime, Memphis (21-6, 10-4 The American) escaped 82-79 over the Owls (7-9, 2-12 The American). “Temple is a very good team, and they have some good guys on
the perimeter. We let their (Temple) individual guys hurt us a lot, and we have got to be able to stop them,” said Memphis Coach Josh Pastner. “We had some great defensive possessions but it was not enough because of how well they played.” Austin Nichols, who notched a double-double with 17 points and 12 rebounds on his way to his second Conference Rookie of the Week honor, drew praise from Pastner, who said Nichols “deserves a lot of credit for his performance. He had seven blocks out there tonight, and was a beast.”
Shaq Goodwin was very good in the second half, said Pastner, once he got back into the swing of things after going out early with two fouls. “Joe Jackson shared the ball really well, and set up some effective plays. Geron Johnson came through in the second half with some great defense, which gave us the ball back in overtime,” said Pastner, continuing his post game assessment. “We got the win, and Temple is a great team. It was a great overtime win, and we found a way to get the win. The American is a great con-
ference, and this game proves that every opponent is tough.” Goodwin, Memphis’ sophomore forward, said, “We’re treating this like our own little championship series, like Final Four, Elite Eight, whatever, so we’re taking each game as the most important game. So the next game is Houston and we’re looking forward to that one. Memphis takes on the Cougars (13-14, 5-9 The American) in Houston on Thursday (Feb. 27th) before hosting the red-hot Louisville Cardinals at the FedExForum on Sunday.
Michael Dixon Jr. sealed the game for the Tigers with these free throws.
Austin Nichols of the Tigers was a beast, with seven blocks, including this shot by Will Cummings of Temple.
Shaq Goodwin of the Tigers dunks on Quenton Decosey (left) of the Temple Owls and Devantae Watson. The Tigers nipped the Owls in an overtime thriller 82-79. (Photos: Warren Roseborough)
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February 27 - March 5, 2014
Tri-State Defender