VOL. 63, No. 15
April 17 - 23, 2014
www.tsdmemphis.com
75 Cents
Early voting – It’s on! Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Twana Coleman
Anna Richardson walked assuredly, a smile on her face, clutching the documentation she received after voting for the first time in her life. For Richardson, 52, her first voting experience was an early-voting journey. She was among those who cast ballots Wednesday morning at the Shelby County Office Building at 157 Poplar Ave. on the first day for early voting. Early voting for the May 6th Shelby County Democratic and Republican Primary Elections runs through May 1st. Voting at satellite sites begins on April 25th. Until then, those who choose to weigh in early can take advantage of the Downtown opportunity.
“The process was easy,” said Deborah Young, another first-day ballot caster. “Basically, I walked in, showed my I.D. and they helped me get started. I quickly made my vote and now I can go on with my day.” Richard Holden, the Election Commission’s administrator of elections, said nearly 30,000 people are expected to early vote, which has been the trend since 2010. “Typically, 60 percent of the voters are female and 40 percent are male,” said Holden. Regina Caldwell said she only had voted twice before casting her ballot on Wednesday. “I never thought my vote would count,” said Caldwell, who wasn’t into sharing her age. “But I think this should be a year of change for the City of Memphis and for me.” As the early-voting process unfolds and the days tick off before the May
Several candidates and numerous supporters were lined up on the sidewalk outside the Downtown earlyvoting site on Poplar Avenue on Wednesday, the first day for early voting. (Photo: Twana Coleman)
6th Election, word still is out on whether U.S. Atty. General Eric Holder and the Justice Department will look favorably on requests to dispatch federal monitors to Memphis. The Rev. Kenneth T. Whalum Jr. of the New Olivet Baptist Church has formally requested such intervention and Ninth District Congressman Steve Cohen is pressing the case. Both point to the error-marred August 2012 elections, with a judge setting aside the outcome in a school-board race that the Election Commission ruled Whalum “lost.” That ruling is on appeal. “That had to do with our efforts to comply with all the redistricting that occurred,” said Robert Meyers, Election Commission chairman. “That SEE VOTING ON PAGE 2
‘Land of upright people’ highlight Africa In April
Disheartened Southbrook Mall developers mull next move Renovation funding proposal still on hold
Special to the New Tri-State Defender
by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell
One of the city’s most anticipated annual festivals marks the richness and diversity of African cultures, and this year’s schedule of events will not disappoint, according to founder and executive director, David L. Acey Sr. “The 2014 Africa in April Cultural Awareness Festival, slated for April 16-20, will honor the West African country of Burkina Faso, a beautiful, lush expanse of land sharing its border with six other nations,” said Acey. “Much of the nation’s population boasts descent from the Mossi Warriors, who ruled over one of the most powerful empires in West Africa from the 11th century up to the 19th century.” Burkina is largely desert in the north region and rolling grasslands spotted with bushes in the central and southern regions, said Acey. “While the Republic of Burkina is
Special to the New Tri-State Defender
by Tony Jones
SEE PEOPLE ON PAGE 2
- INSIDE -
Signature moment…
• A mother’s mission to save her son’s sight. See Community, page 11. • Can a sex tape key a successful relationship? See Entertainment, page 9. • Natural hair: Doing business with ‘a movement.’ See Business, page 7.
Phyllis Cooper-Ford, who has been a Grizzlies season ticket holder for five years, came up big on Wednesday, the lucky recipient of Zach Randolphʼs jersey. While her favorite player is Courtney Lee, she loves her some Z-bo. So do thousands of other Grizz fans who saw their hometown heroes outlast the Dallas Mavericks in OT (106-105) and snatch the seventh-seed in the NBAʼs Western Conference Playoffs. (Photo: Warren Roseborough) See related photos on page 5
No doubt about it, Wiley College still grooming winners The legacy grows at ʻThe Great Debatersʼ college Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Kelvin Cowans
Anya Parker
MEMPHIS WEEKEND
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
H- 7 0o - L - 4 9o Su nny
H- 7 3o - L - 5 2o P a r tl y C l ou dy
H- 7 0o - L - 5 5o Partl y Cl o udy
REGIONAL TEMPS LITTLE ROCK NASHVILLE JACKSON, MS
Friday H-72 L-47 H-65 L-51 H-72 L-55
Saturday H-72 L-54 H-69 L-47 H-77 L-53
Sunday H-73 L-57 H-71 L-52 H-76 L-55
Invited to watch a friend give a keynote speech at Wiley College in Marshall Texas, I answered, “Yes and when do we leave” before the question was complete. I hadn’t forgotten that the 2007 movie titled “The Great Debaters” – starring Denzel Washington as Professor Melvin Tolson – was based on a debate team at the very same Wiley College. I still remembered the authority with which Denzel played that lead and the force of his teachings as he braced his team for verbal combat. The perseverance, courage and outright intellect of the young, evolving debaters was worth the price of admission alone. Fast forward and the legacy of those mighty Great Debaters remains. It hangs from walls, is stuffed in guest-speaker bags, written in bricks, flashes on billboards and is conveniently spoken on the answering machines of the college administrators. The history is as thick as gumbo. Tolson’s home site sits directly next to the college. Some of the movie
was filmed right there. And as luck would have it, one of the new Great Debaters was available to speak to me. I had sent word to the student dorms that I wished to do an inter-
Sophomore Austin Dean Ashford, a young AfricanAmerican man and the captain of the current Wiley College Debate Team, with his signature ukulele. (Photo: Kelvin Cowans)
view with someone from the Debate Team. Sophomore Austin Dean Ashford, a young African-American man and the captain of the current Wiley SEE WINNERS ON PAGE 3
The Southbrook Mall’s future as part of a viable Whitehaven business community is still uncertain following the City Council’s meeting on Tuesday (April 15th). Cherry Davis, spokesperson for Southbrook Properties, the non-profit pushing the remodeling, termed the latest delay “disheartening” and said the development group would decide later what is the next step. For more than two years, Southbrook Properties has sought $1.5 million in taxpayer funding to repair the mall’s roof and for ventilation and infrastructure needs. With strong recommendations from the council’s economic development committee and the council having voted twice to provide funding, Tuesday’s meeting had been envisioned as the session for a final vote on whether the city is going to invest the money. “I feel like we got bounced around like a ping-pong ball,” said Davis. “It was our understanding that the council was to either vote our resolution up or down, but when it came to the floor all kinds of other things happened. Maybe we shouldn’t pursue city support. “We have followed their instructions,” said Davis. “When it comes right down to it, it just seems that when it comes to African-American led projects or investments within African-American communities, strong support from the city is not there. It’s just very disturbing.” Davis and her cohorts are convinced the project warrants the same level of public-private partnership as Overton Square, the Sears Building in Crosstown and the refreshing of the Graceland strip of Elvis Presley Boulevard, also a Whitehaven location. They invited the Baptist Ministerial Alliance, the National Action Now network and SCLC Memphis to speak on their behalf. On Wednesday, Housing and Community Development Director Robert Lipscomb said, “I don’t know why this has become so complicated. They have been informed that the request cannot be approved because the CIP (Community Investment Project) funding cannot be provided for what they want to do. I was instructed by the council in November (2013) to find alternative sources for funding, and that is all that I have been trying to do. But the sources have certain stipulations that must be met and the plan I presented was designed to do that.” Lipscomb’s presentation outlined a $6 million project plan to be funded via federal Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds (QECB). According to a 2012 report by National Association of State Energy Officials, QECB’s are for “projects that can modernize aging infrastructure while promoting economic development and job creation.” Lipscomb said the QECB funds would not only pay for the roof, but SEE MALL ON PAGE 2
NEWS
Page 2 VOTING
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
issue has long been solved, so that shouldn’t prevent voters from coming out and voting. They’ll get the right ballot.” Meyers has said election monitors would be freely welcomed, if ordered. “We have policies and procedures in place to assure that everyone that registers in the eligible time period, shows up in our system as a registered voter and hopefully will have a voter registration card that they can take with them to the polls,” said Meyers. Walking toward the Shelby County Office Building to cast his early-voting ballot, Michael Wells said, “Sometimes mistakes happen and I don’t think those past errors were intentional. I still plan to vote today.” As Wells made his way toward his destination, several candidates and numerous supporters were lined up the sidewalk on Poplar Avenue with brochures and signage. Greg Grant, who voted early, said it was important to do so because you never know what the weather may be like or what difficulties may prevent you from making it during primary election. And, said Grant, it’s important to exercise due diligence before voting. Early voting at the Shelby County Office Building is from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays (April 19th and April 26th. There will be no voting on April 18th in observance of Good Friday. Here are the details for early voting at satellite sites: Beginning: Friday, April 25th through Thursday, May 1st from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. On Saturday, April 26th, the sites will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
(For a listing of all early voting locations, times and candidate information, visit www.shelbyvote.com or call 901-222-1200.)
Tri-State Defender
April 17 - 23, 2014
Africa in Aprilʼs Executive Director David L. Acey Sr. (left) and Yvonne B. Acey, associate director, presented awards to the Honorable Talla Sylla, former president of the National Parliament of Senegal, and Serigne Ibra Hall, CAPCA art director. Radio personality Myron Mays (right), a TSD columnist, emceed the International Entrepreneurʼs Business and Economic Luncheon. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)
PEOPLE
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
not as well-known as some other African nations, it’s history and heritage is just as intriguing and fascinating. Festival-goers are in for a real treat this year.” The African International Business and Economic Trade Luncheon kicked off this
year’s festivities at the Holiday Inn-University of Memphis on Wednesday. Upcoming scheduled events will be staged in Robert R. Church Park at historic Beale Street in Downtown Memphis. Vendors and festival sponsors will be on hand to provide authentic African dishes, clothing, household goods and jewelry for “a taste of the Burkina experience.”
African dancers and other performers will headline a Friday morning International Diversity Parade. Daily activities will culminate Sunday with an International African-American Music Day, featuring jazz, gospel and reggae performers and artists. Acey, along with wife, Yvonne Acey, have guided the Africa In April Cultural Awareness enterprise for 24 years
with the mission of creating “a better understanding and appreciation for African traditions, thereby increasing the respect for one’s ethnicity.” Burkina is home to 63 ethnic groups, nearly 16 million people. (For more information on the festival’s events this week, call 901-947-2133, or visit www.africainapril.com.)
The Africa in April Cultural Awareness Festival schedule
International Entrepreneur’s Day on Wednesday featured the African International Business & Economic Trade Luncheon at the Holiday Inn at the University of Memphis. It included the naming of The LeMoyne-Owen College President Johnny B. Watson as the 2014-15 Executive of the Year. Thursday, April 17 –International Vendors/Marketplace Set-up Day –Beale St. at Robert R. Church Park 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Friday, April 18 – Children & Senior Citizens Day – International Diversity Parade –Beale St. at Robert R. Church Park 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 19 –Family Health/Wellness, Community Day –Blues Showcase –Beale St. at Robert R. Church Park 8 a.m.-until
Sunday, April 20 –International AfricanAmerican Music Day –Jazz, Gospel & Reggae Fest –Beale St. at Robert R. Church Park 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
NEWS
Tri-State Defender
WINNERS
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
College Debate Team, showed up, well groomed, pants appropriately up on his behind and playing the ukulele. Someone should tell Denzel that the million dollars he gave to the school to revive the debate team has brought forward a ridiculously good amount of return. “In October of 2013 we won an exhibition against USC and that was really nice,” said Ashford. “Turn around and then we recently defeated Yale in an exhibition. After that in March we competed in a 20-team tournament in Hutchinson, Kansas and won the Junior Varsity National Championship. “Our team is compiled of nothing but freshmen and sophomores, so we’re going to be even stronger next year,” Ashford said. “Also, just about a week ago we competed in the oldest Debate Tournament there is and this is the same tournament that wouldn’t let our college participate back in the day just because we were black. The tournament, which is held in Indianapolis, Ind., is called the Pi Kappa Delta Tournament and there were 90 teams involved and we won that one as well.”
Kelvin Cowans: Congratulations, you guys are really doing something special here, still. Austin Dean Ashford: Oh yes, we have a really good team and we’re getting better. We can always improve. I have to mention that in January we placed second in the World Championships as Australia won that tournament, so we have room to improve.
MALL
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
other improvements as well. “At the end of the day, if we are to go after that funding,
Page 3
April 17 - 23, 2014
G.E.D. But look at me now. I’m on my way to get my doctorate, and that’s because of here.
KC: Outstanding sir. So this is a United Methodist School. ADA: Yes, and it shows. Our basketball (and) volleyball teams play nationals all the time. Our choir is dynamic. The people around here are impressed less and inspire more. We do a lot of praying here, as much as needed. My freshman year I won seven individual debate titles. This year I have already won five. So I’m like, ‘Oh, God is working.’ This is the black Harvard and no one knows it because it’s a small town that no one recognizes. But this is black gold!
KC: Gotcha. Tell me, what is the reason that you are walking around playing that ukulele? ADA: Ha, there’s something about the acoustic music that connects with me. It’s relaxing. I love classic music. I’m very aware of Stax records in Memphis also. You guys have birthed a lot of great tunes, I keep up.
KC: Where are you from young man and how did you end up here at Wiley College? ADA: I’m from Union City, California and I was offered a scholarship to come here and be on the debate team. So I felt like it was a blessing from God and jumped on it. KC: How is the environ-
ment here? ADA: People here care about each other. We have an enrollment of about 1500 people and we’re sitting right here in the middle of a neighborhood. It’s like if you’re not doing right in school everyone knows. You can be walking down the street and someone will call from their porch and
say, “Hey you, what’s wrong with you? I heard what you did, now get it together. And for me, I needed that. I may not have received that at a big college. Having to go to Chapel every week helped me. I didn’t have a high school diploma. I had some attitude issues back then, so I had to pass the
KC: I know that the movie “The Great Debaters” was before your time here, but what do you remember thinking about that movie? ADA: I remember being excited because they were making a movie about debating. That was mind blowing to me. The activity that we do is not mainstream, it’s not publicized. So that was amazing to me, because I can’t look up to a LeBron James in speech and debate. It doesn’t exist. Then there’s no professional league either. If you don’t do it in high school or college, then that’s it. Seeing that movie and those teens that looked like me shifted my mind. They went
let’s do something that will make Southbrook great, because at the end of the day it’s not about the mall. It’s about what’s best for the Whitehaven community,” said Lipscomb.
“We are also looking for Community Development Block Grant funds for this project. You’ve got to deal with the hand that’s been dealt you.” As for Lipscomb’s presenta-
tion, Davis said that is “ground we’ve already been over, so we really don’t understand what’s going on at the core of this.” Lipscomb said the next step is to set a meeting so all get on the same page.
“We’ve gone above the call of duty in trying to locate funding for the project, but the money has to be used as outlined by the funders.” Michael Rixter, manager for the Southland Mall across the
An inspirational force...
Professor Melvin Tolson, the inspirational force that guided the Wiley College debate team to such prominence that a movie was made starring Denzel Washington, lived in this house next to the college. (Photo: Kelvin Cowans)
undefeated for ten years. That’s unheard of.
KC: You are a multi champion in debate. Give me your mindset as you’re taking the stage. ADA: I’m thinking, “God use me. God take over my body, take over my voice, take over my mannerisms. Whatever you need to shift this room right now, use me. You’ve taken me to far. Whatever purpose you have within this body, use me all the way. Take away all nervousness. Allow me to have a relaxed confidence. Allow me to speak clearly with diction from my heart and my soul and my spirit regardless of anything else.” KC: Wow. How old are you? ADA: I’m 23 years old sir.
KC: I know you’re a champion, but what is your greatest defeat? ADA: I’m still working on it sir. It’s faith. Faith, consistency and hard work are what I’m still working on. I’m going to have to have faith. I’m going to have to also work harder than everybody else and I do and that’s why they can’t touch me. While they are sleep, I work. KC: What is your greatest victory. ADA: It’s going to be my graduation date. When a man goes from a G.E.D. to a college graduate, that’s great. That’s going to be the greatest.
KC: Could you argue the affirmative on that. ADA: Of course; without affirmation you don’t know where you’re going.
(Kelvin Cowans can be at (kelvincowreached ans@hotmail.com) street from Southbrook, wishes the developers good luck. “If it’s remodeled it can only make the area better and bring in more consumers,” said Rixter. “The more the better for both properties.”
Page 4
OPINION
Tri-State Defender
April 17 - 23, 2014
John H. Sengstacke Publisher (1951 - 1997)
The Mid-Southʼs Best Alternative Newspaper
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• Bernal E. Smith II President / Publisher • Dr. Karanja A. Ajanaku Executive Editor
Students should withdraw from some credit card programs
FLASHBACK 2010
African-American women and paycheck fairness NNPA News Service
by Julianne Malveaux When John and Ann started working on Jan. 1, 2013, John had an immediate advantage. Because women earn 77 cents for every dollar men earn, it took Ann until last Friday (April 11, 2014) to earn the same amount of money that John earned in the calendar year of 2013. The issue of unequal pay is so important that President John F. Kennedy signed the Equal Pay Act 50 years ago. While we have come a long way, baby, the pay gap has remained stubborn. This is why President Obama signed the Lily Ledbetter Fair Pay Restoration Act as soon as he assumed office. This year, to commemorate National Equal Pay Day (that’s the day Ann finally earns as much as John), the president signed an Executive Order protecting workers from retaliation when they speak of unequal pay in the workplace (one of the ways employers can maintain unequal pay is to make discussing pay grounds for firing). The president, through the Secretary of Labor, is also requiring federal contractors to provide data on pay, race, and gender to ensure that employers are fairly paid. Furthermore, the Senate is considering the Paycheck Fairness Act, which may pass the Senate, but not the House of Representatives. We know all about John and Ann, but what about Tamika? If women earn 77 percent of what men earn, what about African-American women? Women surely have come a long way, but some are moving far more slowly than others. How many African-American women are there in the Senate? Among Fortune 500 leaders? In other positions of power? What about pay? African American women earn about three quarters of what other women earn, meaning that if it takes Ann until April 11 to catch up with John, It will take Tamika until about June 1 – about another six weeks – to catch up. Tamika earns in 18 months what John earns in 12 months. Even African-American women with the highest levels of education experience these differences. White men with a postgraduate degree earn a median salary of $1,666 a week. African-American women earn a median salary of $1,000 during the same time period. For all the talk of pay equity and paycheck fairness, the status of African-American women is largely ignored. It wouldn’t take much for the president, or some of those feminist groups who support paycheck fairness to throw in a line or two about African-American women. Nor would it hurt African-American organizations, especially those who serve black women, to point out this injustice. Are African-American women invisible? Don’t we count? AfricanAmerican women raise the majority of our children and shoulder many of the challenges in the African American community. Ignoring us in a conversation about unequal pay simply marginalizes our experiences and us.
The focus on “overall” data is yet another way of marginalizing not only AfricanA m e r i c a n women, but other people of color as well. Reporting aggregate data gives some notion of economic Julianne progress. ReportMalveaux ing specific data about AfricanAmerican women and men makes it clear, for example, that African Americans experience depressionlevel unemployment rates. I was delighted when President Obama signed the Lily Ledbetter Act, and I have been privileged to hear Ledbetter speak on more than one occasion. She is an amazing woman with a talent for “breaking it down.” When she learned that men doing the same job she did earned more money, she cried “foul” but the law said it was “too late” for her to complain. In her inimitable way, she said that grocers did not charge her less money because she was female, nor did doctors, or anyone else. She said that higher-paid men didn’t have to make uncomfortable choices about which child would get new shoes or clothes. African-American women can tell the same story as Lily Ledbetter. Indeed, the gaps African-American women are likely to be more severe than the ones Lily Ledbetter faced. The pay gap for African Americans is larger and too many live in food deserts where the cost of food is higher even as the quality is lower. Lily Ledbetter deserves the limelight she earned because she brought this matter to the president’s attention. There’s a black woman out there who can tell a similar or more compelling story. She, too, needs to be lifted up. We ought to know her name, see her name on a piece of legislation. Ledbetter is an ordinary shero, a working class woman who stood up for her rights. She reminds us that, in the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. “You don’t have to be great to serve.” We need a sister to remind us that we don’t have to be elected, appointed, or anointed to make a difference. When African-American women are marginalized, so are our girls. They are left with the mistaken impression that we have not fought for our rights. We’ve been fighting and fighting, but somehow the story of a sister struggling is too unremarkable to be noted by the media. Race and gender continue to shape the opportunities that African-American women have, and race and gender continue to marginalize us black women. When do African-American women have equal visibility in the policy and imagery arena? When we demand it and when we stop applauding our own marginalization. (NNPA columnist Julianne Malveaux is a Washington, D.C.based economist and writer. She is President Emerita of Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, N.C.)
FACEBOOK FAN OF THE WEEK Name: Georgia Howe
Georgia Howe is this weekʼs TSD Facebook Fan of the Week! The Clarksville, Tenn. native graduated from Burt High School and later received a degree from Austin Peay State University. Howe has worked for Dex One and now is the owner of Beachbody Fitness By Georgia. She enjoys nature and living a healthy lifestyle. Thanks Georgia Howe for excelling in Memphis and for being a part of the TSD Facebook family!
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
No, this is not a black thing
Racial discrimination does exist in this world but certainly not at the level it did prior to the Civil Rights Act of 1964. It has been waning, but sometimes it will lift its ugly head. Whenever that happens it should be snuffed out quickly and firmly. As one proud Jamaican member of the National Black Chamber of Commerce said to me, “Show me that I am late; my price is too high, my product is unsafe. Don’t you ever say no because of the color of my skin, for I will fight you with every breath of my life.” That is wise advice and we must be certain not to shrug off pressure or rebuke by saying, “It’s because I am black.” So when we hear people say that our president or attorney general is being criticized because they are black, we should check them. Heck, the fact of the matter is they are where they are because of the timing and the fact that they are black – at least considered black. The fact is, as a whole, our nation is in a very critical state of uneasiness. It is pure chaos right now. We don’t look assuring to our allies and our enemies are smiling at our apparent weakness. Yes, right now we are in a giant cesspool of deceit, timidity, corruption and cowardice. Great nations don’t act like this and it has nothing to do with “black.” My people it is time to get a grip on the realities at hand. “Ye shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free.” Let me note some examples. We have had a non-accountable State Department. I hope Secretary John Kerry can turn it around. Can you believe that this major agency had been operating without an Inspector General for five years? What does that mean? The IG is responsible for oversight and accountability. During the absence of an IG, the State Department cannot account for more than $6 billion in procurement. Who got paid for what? Did they actually do the work? Was strict procurement laws followed? They don’t know. Many of the files are lost and some have been pilfered. Where is the investigation and who is going to jail? The five Mafia families of New York could not have been more corrupt. Oh yes, the State Department is still playing dumb about the Benghazi attack that is now a scandal. Oh, how they lied on all of the Sunday news shows about it like we weren’t going to find out. Four of our people were murdered by Al Qaida-linked persons and we won’t even arrest them for trial. They fear what will come out in court. So they stall and stall and stall. Justice is not served. The same goes with Homeland Se-
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
curity. The “Fast and Furious” disaster put hundreds of illegal weapons onto the streets. We lost a border patrol officer and hundreds of Mexican citizens and they stall and stall and stall. Justice is Harry C. not served. Alford The National Security Agency (NSA) in its sweeping/wiring of telephone and email communications is an ongoing disaster. Recently, we find that the USAID agency ran a covert operation in Cuba. The mission of the USAID is: “Our Mission: We partner to end extreme poverty and to promote resilient, democratic societies while advancing our security and prosperity.” Not anymore. They took 500,000 cell phone numbers of Cuban citizens (from NSA) and began spamming them on a cooked up Twitter account covertly placed in Spain. Money was funneled through the Cayman Islands. The intent was to provoke discontent among Cuban citizens against their government. Sounds a little bit like the Arab Spring affair that backfired tremendously on us. Syria, Egypt, Libya are probably lost to democracy because of our botched “intelligence” activity. The world is seeing us as an evil entity. Then there is the mother of all scandals – the IRS corruption. Every day the plot seems to thicken. There is more than a “smidgen of corruption.” It appears to be a few truckloads of it. In the end, when the truth will eventually come out, there will be IRS employees and people from the White House, Justice Department and recently it looks like Congress, too, will be indicted and carried off to jail. A federal agency hated by most Americans has become a politicized organization working towards the detriment of our democracy. The above are just a few examples. Items like socializing our insurance industry along with mortgages, education; ignoring our debt; cutting our military; evading Congress and the Supreme Court are other items we can discuss later. It isn’t a black thing. It is government overreach and a lack of respect for our Constitution.
(Harry C. Alford is the co-founder, president/CEO of the National Black Chamber of Commerce®. Website: www.nationalbcc.org. Email: halford@nationalbcc.org.) 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.
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As 21st Century employers continue to seek a highly-trained workforce, the marketable value of a college education has never been higher. At the same time, the rising costs of a college education Charlene force growing Crowell numbers of families and students to seek federal financial aid. In FY 2012, according to the Department of Education (DOE), federal student aid programs provided about $142 billion in grants and loans to 15 million students. Although a large portion of these funds are paid directly towards tuition, many students also receive a portion of their aid to cover the costs of textbooks or living expenses. To facilitate these direct student payments, many colleges have partnered with financial firms that provide debit cards and/or bank accounts. These disbursement products can serve as a revenue opportunity for colleges; but they may not be the best deal for students. In a recent report, the Government Accounting Office (GAO) identified 852 colleges and universities with agreements to offer either a prepaid debit card or a debit card linked to a regular checking account. In instances that the debit card becomes part of the student’s campus identification, the single debit card can also be used to access banking services. The GAO expressed concerns about the potential steering of students to these debit cards instead of encouraging them to shop independently for a bank account or prepaid debit cards with better terms and lower fees. As institutions receiving revenues from these debit card partnerships grow dependent on the funds generated, students might be better served by determining whether these debit cards serve their best interest. The GAO report called for actions to address student choice, transparency and access for the growing market of college debit cards. The report will likely serve as a factual reference for the current rulemaking process that DOE is developing for college debit cards. For consumer advocates – including the Center for Responsible Lending – a major concern is whether these debit cards will put students at risk of incurring hefty overdraft fees. Some banks simply decline debit card transactions at no cost to the consumer when consumers lack adequate funds. Other banks charge overdraft fees each time a transaction that lacks available monies on account is attempted. This extension of credit also comes at a high cost. In 2013, CRL research found that debit card transactions were the most common trigger of overdraft fees, causing consumers to incur a median $35 fee per incident. An earlier study of overdraft charges by the FDIC found that young adults were particularly vulnerable to debit card overdrafts. Two leading civil rights leaders, Wade Henderson, president and CEO of the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, and Hilary Shelton, NAACP Washington Bureau Director, co-authored a commentary on the effects of overdraft fees on communities of color. “Surveys have found that high overdraft fees disproportionately impact people of color and lower-income communities – those who already suffered a disproportionate impact from the financial crisis, and who are now having the hardest time recovering,” said the leaders. Now with so many colleges and universities entering into contracts with debit card providers the opportunity for these lucrative fees to strip away needed student aid is at hand. The DOE faces a major decision. Should the Department restrict schools from entering into partnerships with financial institutions that allow students to overdraw their accounts with the swipe of a debit card? If so, that decision would be consistent with the Department’s existing policy to disallow disbursements of student aid onto debit cards or accounts that can be used or converted into a credit instrument. Allowing consumers to spend more than they have in exchange for a fee is the equivalent of offering them a loan to be repaid with interest. Until DOE finalizes its rulemaking, students and their parents should set out on a mission to better understand the terms of the college debit cards issued. Concerns should be brought to the attention of the debit card providers, college officials and if necessary, to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau through its online complaint forms. Funds disbursed to support higher education should not be snatched away for private gain. (Charlene Crowell is a communications manager with the Center for Responsible Lending. She can be reached at Charlene.crowell@responsiblelending.o rg.)
Tri-State Defender
NEWS
April 17 - 23, 2014
Page 5
GRIZZ TRACK
Big on big…
Dallas super-star forward Dirk Nowitski made his presence felt throughout Wednesday nightʼs last game of the regular season. With Grizz center Marc Gasol drawing the defensive assignment on this play, Nowitski made his move, attempting a drive-by.
Beastmode…
On point…
With 1.1 seconds left Wednesday night in the battle for the seventh seed in the Western Conference Playoffs, starting point guard Mike Conley was fouled and sank this free throw to give the Grizzlies the 106-105 victory over the Mavericks. (Photos: Warren Roseborough)
No stopping this…
Mike Conley drives and scores over Shawn Marion of Dallas. Next stop for Memphis is a first-round Playoffs series against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Grizz power forward Zach Randolph was, well, a load for Dallas on Wednesday night at the FedExForum. Here he shoots and scores over DeJuan Blair of the Mavericks, who drew San Antonio in the upcoming playoffs.
NATIONAL
Page 6
Tri-State Defender
April 17 - 23, 2014
When cops hide behind badge to kill blacks Activist tracks extra judicial killings of blacks – the deliberate murder of blacks outside of the judicial system, often by law enforcement officials
NNPA News Service
by Freddie Allen
WASHINGTON – In 1965, Tuskegee Institute in Alabama was a hotbed for social protest and bred students passionate about equality, justice and civil rights. Seventeen year-old, Ruby Sales, born in Jemison, Ala., was one of those students. “Once you got the religion of civil rights and you were really in the movement, it was hard to turn around, because there was something about it that wouldn’t let you loose,” said Sales. She joined the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and when youngsters from Lowndes County, Ala., called on the group to help organize demonstrations for back payment for sharecroppers and a voting drive, Sales, a sophomore, knew that she had to go. A mob of white men wielding baseball bats, trash can lids and rakes greeted the peaceful protesters. The cops arrested Sales and her group, holding them for a week and feeding them “slop.” Sales said some were tortured. They were afraid to drink the water. When members of the group of a little more than 20 demonstrators were released a week later with little fanfare, they were relieved and suspicious. The dusty and hot streets of the town were deserted. Four of the young activists – Ruby Sales; Jonathan Daniels, an Episcopalian seminarian; Father Richard Morrisroe, a Roman Catholic priest and Joyce Bailey, a local teen – left the group and walked across the street to buy sodas at the grocery store they had frequented just a week earlier. Sales and Bailey were black. Daniels and Morrisroe were white. Sales led the group. Friends would say that she was always in the front. As she walked up the short set of cement cinder block steps to enter the store, waiting for them in the doorway was Thomas Coleman, a white volunteer special deputy sheriff armed with a pistol and a 12guage shotgun. “When I got to the door, he said, ‘Bitch, I’ll blow your brains out!’” remembered Sales. According to the student, Coleman leveled the shotgun at her and everything seemed to move in slow motion. Daniels pulled Sales down the concrete steps. Coleman squeezed the trigger. Sales fell sideways off the steps as the shotgun blast nearly tore Daniels in half. “I thought I was dead,” said Sales. “I thought, ‘This is what dead must feel like.’” But Sales wasn’t dead. Coleman fired another round, hitting Father Morrisroe in the back as he fled with Bailey. Sales crawled out and hid behind a car near the grocery store. Then, Sales said, the volunteer sheriff called the police. Later, Coleman was charged with manslaughter in the death of Jonathan Daniels and claimed self-defense. A jury of his peers found him not guilty in two hours. He never served a day in jail for the incident. Though traumatized by the experience, the young Sales continued to work with SNCC. It was a period of rank optimism, when many young people, black and white, were determined to remove the walls of segregation and, in the process, change America for the better. “It’s not that people were suicidal, but they were making a statement that they wouldn’t let the fear of death turn them around; they were moved by the spirit toward freedom,” Sales said. She continued her work in civil rights and after graduating from Episcopal Divinity School in 2001 founded The SpiritHouse Project, a nonprofit research, education and action organization that works for racial, economic, and social justice. There, she was able to rekindle her work as an activist by tracking what is formally called extra judicial killings of blacks – the deliberate murder
of blacks outside of the judicial system, often by law enforcement officials. “It’s a crisis for African American people because we are not safe in this country. We are profiled for hate crimes by people who are paid and empowered to protect us,” explained Sales. “We are not safe, our children are not safe and we are targeted for these murders through tasings, hangings, shootings and beatings.” Sales continued: “It’s a crisis, because it’s not just a black problem, it’s an American problem.” It’s a crisis that dates back to the 1890s and the early 1900s, said Sales, when lynching became a virulent reality in this country. According to archival records from the Tuskegee Institute, now Tuskegee University, 1,778 blacks were lynched from 1890 to 1910, compared to 526 whites lynched over the same time period. In 1892 at the peak use of the terror tactic, 161 blacks were lynched and 69 whites were lynched, the highest year for lynchings on record. Close to 3,500 blacks and 1,300 whites were lynched from 1882-1968. Sales understood that type of violence against black people on very deep intellectual and spiritual levels. So, her antennae were already up when she homed in on the suspicious death of Billey Joe Johnson in Benndale, Miss. in 2009 and went down to Lucedale, Miss., a neighboring town, to investigate. On an early December morning in 2008, police pulled Billey Joe Johnson, 17, over for speeding, one of the indulgences of a star high school running back with college skills and NFL dreams. Later, the George County Sheriff’s Department would say that he tried to break into the home of a sometimes girlfriend in Lucedale, Miss., and that he ran a red light leaving her house. The girlfriend was white. Billey Joe was black. The sheriff’s deputy who pulled the teen over said that after Billy Joe gave him his license, the teen went back to his truck an retrieved a 12-guage shotgun that he used for hunting and shot himself in the face. Sales found the report unbelievable and said that the case showed the hallmark characteristics of a modern day form of lynching. “Immediately, that historical collective memory kicked in,” said Sales. The suspicious death, the quick and incredulous suicide angle pushed by law enforcement, and the white woman, were all tell-tale warning signs, according to Sales. Lynchings were often seen as the final solution used to intimidate and disenfranchise blacks, especially black men who were portrayed as a clear and present danger to the sanctity of white women, Sales said. Sales began to link that case and more than a dozen other cases, some covered in the media, others just covered up. “I said, ‘Oh my god, we’ve got a crisis here, black folks are right back where we were after Reconstruction,” recalled Sales. Sales said that the nation is being torn apart by these acts of white supremacy and the acts pose a clear and present danger to America’s image in the world and our ability to forthrightly deal with foreign policy. She asked, “How do you talk about countries who don’t have democracy when the very heart of democracy is being shredded at home?” In April 2013, The Malcolm X Grassroots Movement, a human rights group focused on self-determination in the black community, released a report detailing the extrajudicial killings of black people in the United States. The group compiled the data from Internet searches, public documents, police reports and eyewitness accounts. According to the report there were 313 such killings in 2012, nearly one every 28 hours and almost twice the number of murders when compared to the number of lynchings at their
Ruby Sales, civil rights activist and founder of The SpiritHouse Project. (Courtesy photo) peak in 1892. The report also shows that in almost half of the killings, police officers, security guards and vigilantes said they “felt threatened,” “feared for their
In observance of…
life,” or “were forced to shoot to protect themselves or others” Thirteen percent of the killings involved suspects firing a weapon “either before or
during the officer’s arrival.” “The extrajudicial murders are tools of social control to reestablish white supremacy and to control African Americans and other people,” said Sales. “Violence has always been a means of doing that. The same ideological perspective that gave rise to lynching is in place today.” Nothing has changed, added Sales. “We have to begin to offer that critique in our community to ask why are our hearts are so hardened in the face of these deaths,” said Sales. “Why do we believe in the criminalization of African American people, especially African American men? Why do we believe that black boys and black men are urban animals? Why do we believe that? These are our children. These are our relatives and yet we seem numb.” Sales draws a direct line from the lynchings that took place from 1882-1968, to the violence that blacks and whites endured during the Civil Rights Movement to the shooting deaths of Amadou Diallo by New York City police officers,
Oscar Grant III by Bay Area Rapid Transit police officers in Oakland, Calif., Jack Lamar Robinson by police in Waycross, Ga., and the suspicious deaths of Billey Joe Johnson in Benndale, Miss., Chavis Carter in Jonesboro, Ark., and a number of other cases. Sales plans to invite some of the family members affected by these killings who haven’t benefitted from the direct media spotlight to an event in Washington, D.C. on April 22 to help expand the narrative about the extrajudicial killings and to help people understand that this is not just about a few people being killed. This is a major organized, systemic issue. “National leaders are not standing up and speaking for the families; the families are speaking for themselves,” said Sales. “They are the ones that have the credible voices and have the right to make their demands known.”
(To learn more about the event on extrajudicial killings that will be hosted by The SpiritHouse Project, visit SpiritHouseProject.org
President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama hosted a Passover Seder dinner in the Old Family Dining Room of the White House on Tuesday (April 15th). (White House photo: Pete Souza)
BUSINESS
Tri-State Defender
Page 7
April 17 - 23, 2014
ON OUR WAY TO WEALTHY
Natural hair: Doing business with ‘a movement’
Maintenance of natural hair is not just a science; it is an art. Additionally, it is now a unique profit center for black hair care companies, divisions, stylists and schools. In that mix is natural hair instructor Anya Parker, who clearly has a passion for natural hair care.
Carlee McCullough: Tell us about yourself. Anya Parker: I’ve been a licensed hair stylist for almost ten years. I am also a natural hair instructor at Lisa Akbari Hair Institute, where we specialize in the training of future natural hair stylists.
C.M.: What makes natural hair a business opportunity? A.P.: This is a great business opportunity because it is “today’s” popular trend that I don’t feel like it’s going to run out like most trends do. I encourage anyone who is in fashion, makeup, hair or whatever it is that you do to make people feel good on the inside and the outside, to jump on board. Natural hair is a movement of women and men determined to live healthier lifestyles. C.M.: What are the necessary elements that go into a successful hair industry business? A.P.: Well, I believe in purpose-filled living. Everything I do or touch has purpose in
my life. So the primary element is purpose.
bless others.
C.M.: What’s most challenging as a business owner? A.P.: The most challenging thing for me is not being able to please everyone.
C.M.: What was your personal natural hair journey like? Carlee A.P.: In McCullough the beginning it was very hard because not only did my hair stylist fire me as her client, but people in my community would give me a funny look. But I’m so comfortable in my skin that it didn’t bother me very much. It was just very funny to watch. C.M.: What advice would you give someone who wants to go natural? A.P.: Go natural! That is my advice. If your hair is good enough for God, then why isn’t it good enough for you?
C.M.: Do you recommend transitioning or big chop? A.P.: It depends on the customer. Some people can be a little crazy when it comes to their hair. So I recommend a few salon visits before getting a big chop. C.M.: What are the biggest mistakes people make in their
C.M.: Who inspires Anya Parker and who is your mentor? A.P.: I’m inspired by all people whether they are good or bad people. Everything I do is either for the people or because of the people I’ve encountered. My pastor, Stephon Brown, and Lisa Akbari are my mentors. I watch them, learn from them and execute whatever task they put in front of me. They both are super awesome people. I must say I am blessed.
natural hair journey? A.P.: Trying to do it alone. This is a journey that you don’t have to do alone and it’s more than a hairstyle. Natural is a lifestyle. But beware of the YouTube bloggers. Most of the people on there are not licensed and give out the wrong information. So don’t believe everything you hear. Get with a professional that you trust. C.M.:
What
emerging
Anya Parker
trends do you see in the hair industry? A.P.: Braids, braids and lots of braids. I think that people are stretched for every dollar. So people are looking for styles that will last a while. Some people cannot afford to visit the salon every week. C.M.: What training is typically required to become a hair stylist? A.P.: To be a cosmetologist
you have to complete 1500 hours of beauty school.
C.M.: What do you enjoy most about the beauty industry? A.P.: Just waking up every morning to do what I love is enjoyable to me. C.M.: As a business owner, what is the greatest reward? A.P.: The greatest reward of being a leader is being able to
C.M.: Any closing remarks? A.P.: Thanks for the opportunity to share my views with your readers. It is an honor. I will be hosting a Natural Hair Boot Camp in June 2014. So readers, look out for the flyer or you can contact me via email at alparker901@gmail.com for more details or to schedule a hair appointment check me out at www.styleseat.com/anyaparker.
(Contact Carlee McCullough, Esq., at 5308 Cottonwood Road, Suite 1A, Memphis, TN 38118, or email her at jstce4all@aol.com.)
MONEY MATTERS
The road to a comfortable retirement is full of risks, and they don’t end when you stop working. As an investor, you are probably aware of market risk. You might also have considered longevity risk – the risk that you could outlive your retirement assets. Here are four additional risks that may be worth considering, whether you are in the accumulation phase of your retirement journey or are already spending down your savings. Inflation – The inflation rate has been relatively low over the last five years, averaging about 2.25 percent per year. But even that level can eat into the purchasing power of your savings. And longterm inflation trends have been higher, averaging 2.85 percent annually over the last 30 years. Although you may want to tilt your portfolio toward more conservative in-
Retirement risks to consider
vestments after you retire, you still might allocate some assets to stocks and other investments that have Charles Sims the potential to outJr., CFP pace inflation. Of course, all investments are subject to market fluctuation, risk, and loss of principal. When sold, they may be worth more or less than their original cost. Unexpected events – A recent survey of Americans aged 50 to 70 found that the average respondent had experienced four “derailers” that temporarily knocked them off track in saving for retirement, with an average loss of $117,000. This may sound
daunting, but setbacks could be mitigated by maintaining an emergency savings fund. When you are faced with an unexpected event, the wisest approach may be to resume saving at the highest rate you can afford when your life returns to normal. You might also have to adjust your spending habits. Social Security – According to the 2013 Annual Report of the Board of Trustees, Social Security benefits should be fully funded at current levels until 2033, when the trust funds may be exhausted. After that, payroll taxes would be able to fund only about 77 percent of scheduled benefits. Depending on your age, you might need to scale back your expectations for Social Security as a major source of retirement income. Sequencing – The most complex challenge could be sequencing risk, which refers
WIN sets first Solidarity Breakfast The Worker’s Interfaith Network’s inaugural Solidarity Breakfast will be on Saturday (April 19th) from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. in the large conference room at First Congregational Church, 1000 S. Cooper St. The breakfast will focus on “Faith and Labor in Memphis:
1968-Present.” It will feature workers from the 1968 Sanitation Workers Strike; Irvin Calliste, president of the Memphis AFL-CIO; and Kevin Bradshaw, president of the Bakers, Confectionary, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers (BCTGM) International Union, Local 252G.
The event will be co-hosted by the United Campus Workers-Communications Workers of America (UCW-CWA) Memphis. A light breakfast will be the Stone Soup restaurant. Tickets are $25 and are available via workersinterfaithnetwork.eventbrite.com.
to the timing of unfavorable portfolio returns, especially in the early retirement years. This could result from adverse market conditions and/or an inappropriate withdrawal strategy. The dramatic market downturn during the Great Recession brought this into focus for many retirees, but sequencing is an ongoing issue that could require regular adjustments to your allocation and withdrawal strategies in response to changes in the
market and/or your personal situation. Asset allocation is a method used to help manage investment risk; it does not guarantee a profit or protect against investment loss. Each of these risks presents its own challenges and potential solutions. Addressing them properly requires a solid strategy that balances a variety of factors. You may benefit from professional help in analyzing and addressing these risks as they apply to your own situation. Although
there is no assurance that working with a financial advisor will improve investment results, a professional who focuses on your overall objectives can help you consider strategies that could have a substantial effect on your long-term financial situation. (Charles Sims Jr. is president/ CEO of The Sims Financial Group. Contact him at 901-682-2410 or visit www.SimsFinancialGroup.co m.)
RELIGION
Page 8
Tri-State Defender
April 17 - 23, 2014
Memphis on McDonald’s Gospel Tour
(PRNewswire) – Memphis is one of 12 stops on the multi-city McDonald’s Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour, which kicks off May 22nd. New Salem Baptist Church will be the Memphis-area venue, with the tour stop set for June 20th. The tour begins at Mount Airy COGIC in Philadelphia and ends at Craneway Pavilion in Oakland, Calif. on July 25th. Hosting the tour this year is Erica Campbell, one-half of sister duo Mary Mary and now a solo artist, and comedian Jonathan Slocumb. Joining them will be threetime 2014 Stellar Aw a r d winners Anthony Brown & G r o u p TherAPy, Erica t h e Campbell renowned Mississippi Mass Choir, gospel’s latest hiphop sensation Uncle Reece, organist Moses Tyson Jr. and Kurt Carr & The Kurt Carr Singers. Back for its eighth year, the free summer concert series is designed to deliver messages of hope and inspiration to communities nationwide. “I am so thankful and honored to be chosen not only to host the tour, but to perform alongside other gospel greats,” said Campbell. “The tour will definitely be filled with uplifting music, laughter and an overall good time for everyone.” With a focus on the importance of giving back to the community, the McDonald’s Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour will be supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), the company’s Mission Partner. Attendees will be encouraged to support their local RMHC Chapter by participating in a love offering to help neighboring families served by the Charity. All Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour concerts are free. Gospel music fans can visit www.365Black.com to obtain tickets. McDonald’s Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour is an extension of the brand’s 365Black platform, an initiative that celebrates the pride, heritage and achievements of African-Americans year round. (To learn more about the tour and the 365Black initiative, visit h t t p : / / w w w. 3 6 5 B l a c k . c o m. Follow @McDonalds on Twitter and join the conversation at #365BlackGospel.)
‘Jerusalem 3D’ – giant-screen film experience – ready for Memphis run at Pink Palace
This sunset view of Jerusalem is among the myriad images that get giantscreen treatment in ʻJerusalem 3D,ʼ which opens at the Pink Palace Museum on Saturday (April 19th).
Writer/director Daniel Ferguson said ʻJerusalem 3Dʼ filmgoers will feel as though they are experiencing Jerusalem first-hand, thanks in large part to the giant-screen technology and special access. (Photos: National Geographic)
Jerusalem: sacred to half the people on earth; fought over more than any other place in history; conquered and destroyed, rebuilt and reinvented repeatedly over 5,000 years. And beginning Saturday (April 19th), visitors to the Crew Training International Giant Theater at the Memphis Pink Palace Museum will get a 3D feel for the ancient city. “Jerusalem 3D” will be the vehicle for the giant-screen film experience. Locally presented by the Methodist Healthcare Center of Excellence in Faith & Health, the film is an original production from Cosmic Picture and Arcane Pictures and distributed by National Geographic Entertainment. Narrated by Benedict Cumberbatch (“Star Trek into the Darkness,” PBS’s “Sherlock”), “Jerusalem 3D” is billed as a grand-scale exploration of “the intersection of science, history and religion in this ancient, enigmatic place.” “‘JERUSALEM 3D’ embodies National Geographic’s commitment to tell visually compelling stories that foster greater understanding and appreciation of world cultures, history, science and geography,” said Lisa Truitt, president of National Geographic Entertainment. “With this extraordinary film’s immersive experience, audiences will feel as if they are really walking the streets of this beloved and iconic place.” Writer/director Daniel Ferguson said filmgoers will feel as though they are experiencing Jerusalem first-hand, thanks in large part to the giant-screen technology. “We were thrilled with the opportunity to provide audiences with the story of the Old City on this grand scale, and offer unique perspectives, aerials and
RELIGION BRIEFS
Words matter…
Alexus D. Lewis Sr. sings “Father, Forgive Them,” during the first word segment of “The Seven Last Words of Christ” annual presentation at St. John Baptist Church at 640 Vance Ave. The Palm Sunday presentation was performed by The St. John Community Chorale. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)
BRIEFLY: The Women of the St. Stephen Missionary Baptist Church at 508 N. Third Street will celebrate their 77th Annual Sisterhood Day on May 4th. The 10:45 morning speaker will be Evangelist Juanita Brown of Promise Land Church. The theme is “Women on a Mission to Glorify the Name of GOD.” Tara Harris, chairperson; Jennifer L. Smith, co-Chairperson. Host pastor: The Rev. Elmer Shelton Jr. For more information: 901525-0722. BRIEFLY: Holy Week Services, which began Sunday (April 13th) will continue through Friday (April 18th) at Castalia Baptist Church, 1540 Castalia St. at 7 p.m. A different preacher will be proclaiming one of the words spoken
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
access to this part of the world in a way you could never get in any other format.” The images include a rare glimpse of the storied city, as well as exclusive access to iconic holy sites, including the Western Wall, the Dome of the Rock, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Jordan River, the Sea of Galilee, and the mountain fortress of Masada—and to little-known parts of the region. Special access is one of the unique aspects of the film. Filmmakers were granted permission to capture aerial images over the Old City of Jerusalem, and throughout the Holy Land. A strict no-fly zone has existed over the region for many years, restricting low-altitude filming. Once secured, the filmmakers launched a major campaign in both Hebrew and Arabic to notify the public weeks before filming began. The 43-minute large format film presents the story from varied perspectives – interviewing a prominent archaeologist and following real-life inhabitants of the ancient city. Audiences will meet three teenagers – Farah Ammouri, Revital Zacharie, and Nadia Tadros – who call Jerusalem home. They represent the three major world religions that share the Old City. From the Damascus Gate and the Dome of the Rock, to the Western Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the girls each reveal the Holy City from their own perspective. “Jerusalem 3D” runs April 19 through Dec. 31. Tickets: children (3-12), $7; seniors (60plus), $8; adults (13-59), $9. For more information: www.memphismuseums.org or call 901-636-2362. The Pink Palace Museum is located at 3050 Central Ave.
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
A new church plant
“Where love & Joy is at the top of the list” 1000 Cherry Rd., Memphis, TN 38117
Ch u r ch o f C hr is t Temporary Location: Harding School of Theology (W.B. West Auditorium) Friends & Family Day – April 27 Bible Study: 9:00 a.m. Worship: 10:00 a.m. & 4:00 p.m. 901-730-0984
J.M. Crusoe Minister
Attend the Church of your choice
by Christ from the cross each day. Castalia’s Easter Pageant will be April 20th at 10 a.m. The Rev. Dr. Randolph Meade Walker is the host pastor. BRIEFLY: Bartlett Woods Church of Christ’s 9th Annual Ride for Agape to benefit Agape Child & Family Services will be May 10th. Registration starts at 9 a.m. at the church at 7900 Old Brownsville Rd. Funds support Agape’s mission of serving under-resourced children, families and communities in West Tenn. Single riders can register for $20 and the fee for double riders is $35. There will be door prizes. The rain date is May 17. For more information, contact Mike Pratt at 901-8707223 or agaperide@yahoo.
I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. —Phillipians 4:13
ENTERTAINMENT Tri-State Defender, Thursday, April 17 - 23, 2014, Page 9
FRE&H FRUIT
WHAT’S HAPPENING MYRON?
Is a sex tape key to a successful relationship? Big talk this week is the leaked sex tape between “Love and Hip Hop Atlanta” stars Mimi and Nikko. If you haven’t heard about this or at least heard, seen or read a “shower rod” Myron joke in the past Mays few days, you must be living underneath a rock…a very large one. Admittedly, I’ve been spending a little time under that rock myself. I have never watched an episode of the show. Before this week I couldn’t have picked Mimi or Nikko out of a line up. However, I know them both quite well now. Possibly more than I’d really like. OK, first off, it’s not really a sex tape; it’s a “DVD.” A sex tape is a video between two people that is meant to be kept private. This was a production with a professional cameraman that was made for retail. Ever since Kim Kardashian made the spotlight for a “sex tape” there seems to be never-ending quests for 15 minutes of fame…or the extending of it, that is. Now, as a result of the MimiNikko tape, I am aware of the show and some of the cast members. I might even watch an episode or two. So as far as building interest in the show, the tape served its purpose. That’s about the extent of it, though. I don’t think I’ll be on the edge of my seat waiting for a blockbuster movie starring Mimi or Nikko. I don’t even think I’ll be anxiously awaiting a sequel to their sex tape either. Back to Kim. I often hear people ask, “Why is she famous?” Well, let’s try to answer that question. She became “popular” for her involvement in a sex tape. Why is she famous? I still have no idea. However, it all began with that tape. Fast forward a few short years and not only is Kim famous, so is her whole family. And it all began with that tape. Now, everyone thinks that if you release a sex tape, you’ll get famous too. This is actually disturbing. Why? Because, once you think about it, this has only worked “once” and for only “one” person, and that’s Kim. It didn’t go very well for Ray J…and he was in the same tape. It didn’t work so well for Montana Fishburne either. Why? Because a sex tape is not a proven recipe for a successful career in Hollywood. I’m curious to see how this whole thing shakes out. I guess we shall see.
Scandal Finale Party
Gladiators mount up! It’s that time again, yep it’s time for the 1035 WRBO Scandal Season Finale Watch Party! If you’re looking for somewhere to hang out, just meet me at Applebees, 1571 Sycamore View, Thursday tonight! The party starts at 7 p.m. with Half Off Appetizers, $3 drink specials and chances to win prizes. Don’t worry, when the show starts at 9 p.m., there WILL be silence... until the commercials come on that is. Then we can talk about what just happened. Also, there will be concert ticket giveaways and more.You know you will want somebody to talk to when the show ends…so bring your friends!
Read up!
The What’s Happening Myron Book Club meets this Saturday (April 19th) at Otherlands Coffee Bar at 641 South Cooper from 4 p.m. till 6 p.m. The featured book is “Beautiful, Dirty Rich” by J.D. Mason. Our local featured author is Marie Pizano, author of “From Barefoot to Stilettos”. In addition to the great reading selections, there will be door prizes, good food and drinks and more. I hope to see you there.
(Got an event you’d like for me to cover or attend, be sure to email me at Myron@whatshappeningmyron.com)
JaʼDae Nicole, a 2011 Kirby High School graduate now living in Atlanta, is a did-you-hear-that-note singing artist. (Courtesy photos)
Here comes Ja’Dae Nicole!
(Fre$h Fruit is Kelvin Cowans’ periodic look at upcoming and rising talent from Memphis and the surrounding areas.)
After a long wait for her to hit the stage and by the time she actually graced the microphone, hands were waving in unison as the crowd ushered in the first verse of Ja’Dae Nicole’s song. Writers, promoters, artists and fans showed up to support Nicole and the release of her second mixtape, “Improv 2.” Their wait for the 2011 Kirby High School graduate and now Atlanta-living, did-you-hearthat-note singing artist was warranted. The back-up dancers were good, her poetry-in-motion lyrics were great and Nicole was as pretty as a Saturday. When she broke into “Break Yo Neck” it seemed some of her fans might do just that, trying to get a glimpse of this R&B/ pop singer-songwriter who clearly has next. That’s next as in on your radio and TV. “I got into music by watching my father, Jabbar Smith, in the studio. It was his own studio, which was located in Raleigh,” said Nicole. “I’d been there a countless number of times, but it was right around when I turned 8 years old that I actually went in there and recorded my first song. “I remember it like it was yesterday; that song was named “Please Come Home.” Kelvin Cowans: What you know about somebody coming home at 8 years old? Ja’Dae Nicole: It was a song for the war, because people were dying and everything. It was like for my grandmother as well.
KC: Which direction did you go after that? JC: I started writing songs and then when I turned 12 years old I did my first show. It was at Crystal Palce Skating Rink on Third Street. It was really nice. I liked the responses I received from that so I continued to work at it. By the time I turned 16, I met a promoter
by the name of Drich. He helped me get on a lot of shows around town and helped me better my craft. Soon after that we heard that Tony Davis, aka Cheese, of 645 Records was putting on a show and looking for talent. We sent him a demo and they fell in love with it. He decided that he wanted to sign me to 645 Records and after me and my family went over the contract we signed. And that’s where I’ve been ever since then. I was 16 years old going on 17 at that time. KC: Tony resides in Atlanta, where just like Memphis there’s a rich history of music, so I can pretty much guess you’ve been doing shows in the “A.” JN: Yes, I have. …We also started traveling to do shows as well. We then released two mixtapes and are currently working on my album. We’ve been working.”
KC: What inspires you to write songs? JN: My writings come from my English teachers from back in high school. They were very supportive and encouraging to me when I would turn in assignments. Some of those assignments I would write poetry for and I believe it all blossomed from that.
KC: How has signing with 645 Records benefitted you in your career? JN: Tony flat out told me that you don’t find many artists that can sing, write and make up their own dance moves and that let me know that he felt that I could become something special. He was excited to have me on the label and that made me excited. Once you get signed you have to work even harder and I expected that and I don’t mind working hard. They push me to be the best I can be. He always has some wisdom for me. KC: I keep hearing that Atlanta has a different feel to it and good energy, Can you attest to that? JN: There’s no place like home. I love Memphis, but as far as having things to do and more people to network with in your
field, it’s Atlanta for sure. It’s way better.
KC: Do you see anyone in the music game that inspires you? JN: I have a few actually. I like Tank. I think he’s underrated because he’s a very talented singer and writer. I also like Keri Hilson because she’s a writer also. Now as far as like grind, I have to go with T.I. and Yo Gotti. Gotti been doing this and he didn’t mind doing what it took to become what he wanted to become and that’s what I’m about. The last person would be Usher because he’s an all around talent. I have studied him for a long time now.
KC: If you were in the studio with the biggest name executives in the country and they told you that you have one shot with them, one song to convince them to do business with you, which song would you play? JN: That’s easy, I would pick “I L Y,” it means I love you. It’s a fun song and it’s basically about telling your partner that I’m here for you no matter what. It deals with what a lot of people are going through in love and life today.
KC: Anything you’d like to add for our readers who may be contemplating a career such as yours? JN: I’d say find something that motivates you. What has motivated me is staying true to God and keeping him first. I’ve been blessed for doing that. My Mom is my manager and she is awesome and these opportunities that I’m getting are a direct reflection of me staying true to God. KC: Last question, what is your favorite fruit? JN: Banana. (For more information about Ja’Dae Nicole: www.jadaenicole.com; manager, Nina B. – 404-916-2023; 645 Records, Tony Davis – tony@645inc.com.) (Kelvin Cowans can be reached at kelvincowans@hotmail.com.)
‘Out Of Africa’ in Memphis
“Out Of Africa” – billed as an emergency of works from contemporary Africa – will begin nearly a monthlong run with an opening night reception on April 25th. Presented by ANF Architects in conjunction with the Art Village Gallery, the show features the artwork of Ephraim Urevbu and Zeinu Mudeser. The opening night reception will be from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at ANF Architects, 1500 Union Ave. The show runs through May 22nd. Urevbu, who sprouted from impoverished beginnings in Warri, Nigeria, now lives above the Art Village Gallery. As a child, he spent his days going to school and working with his mother at her timber shed to help make ends meet. Any additional time was spent doing odd jobs to buy art supplies. After his talents became noticed, he gained entrance to one of Nigeria’s elite high schools and later went to University. After graduation he worked for a national television network, theater, and dappled in graphic design. Then he made the difficult decision to move to America, enrolling at the Memphis College of Art. He encountered several layers of frustration with the transition to the U.S., eventually working his way beyond the frustration and learning a valuable lesson – everyone struggles. After a transfer to Memphis State University, he earned his BA and MBA degrees. With 20-plus as a Memphis artist, his career speaks for itself. The website that sketches his journey relays that his mission is “to revitalize the city of Memphis as a whole, shaping its future through the arts and deploying his creative energies to change not only how the residents of the city experience their culture, but also visitors.”
Ephraim Urevbu has been a stalwart in the effort to “create a place for the arts in downtown Memphis.” (Photo: www.artvillagegallery.com)
The president and founder of the South Main Arts Association, he has been a stalwart in the effort to “create a place for the arts in downtown Memphis.” The Art Village Gallery is a restoration project that has become his office, home and community. Urevbu bought the building, which now is a combination gallery, interior design studio, framing shop and photography studio.
Zeinu Mudeser
A classically-trained artist, Zeinu Mudeser was born in Addis Ababa, the cap-
Zeinu Mudeser: “Iʼm always trying to find shape or form by breaking down the existing shapes, forms and colors ʻtill my inner necessity tells me to stop.ʼ” (Photo: Facebook)
ital city of Ethiopia. After art school, he worked as a cartoonist and illustrator for various monthly magazines. In 2000, he moved to the U.S. “I’m always trying to find shape or form by breaking down the existing shapes, forms and colors ‘till my inner necessity tells me to stop,’” says Medeser in the online narrative that outlines his artistic journey.
(To read more about Urevbu and Mudeser and Nubia and Ludigo – two other artists whose works will be in the show – visit http://www.artvillagegallery.com/artists1.)
ENTERTAINMENT
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Tri-State Defender
April 17 - 23, 2014
E-BRIEFS
OPENING THIS WEEK
Stax booksigning for ‘Southern Soul-Blues’ author David Whiteis
Kam’s Kapsules:
Weekly Previews That Make Choosing a Film Fun
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Kam Williams
For movies opening April 18, 2014
BIG BUDGET FILMS
“Bears” (G) John C. Reilly narrates this nature documentary, set in the Alaska wilderness, chronicling a year in the life of a family of brown bears with a couple of young cubs just learning how to survive the elements, including avalanches, predators and the bitter cold.
“A Haunted House 2” (R for violence, graphic sexuality, frontal nudity, drug use, ethnic slurs and pervasive profanity) Irreverent spoof of recent horror flicks featuring Marlon Wayans as a newlywed who moves his bride (Jaime Pressly) and step-children (Ashley Rickards and Steele Stebbins) into a dream home only to be plagued by the ghost of his ex-girlfriend (Essence Atkins) as well as a series of paranormal phenomena. With Cedric the Entertainer, Gabriel Iglesias, Affion Crockett and Missi Pyle. “Heaven Is for Real” (PG for mature themes) Screen adaptation of Pastor Todd Burpo’s (Greg Kinnear) #1 New York Times best-seller recounting his son’s (Connor Corum) meeting Jesus Christ (Mike Mohrhardt) up in Paradise during a near-death experience. Supporting cast includes Thomas Haden Church, Kelly Reilly and Lane Styles. “Transcendence” (PG-13 for violence, action, bloody images, sensuality and brief profanity) Sci-fi thriller starring Johnny Depp as a terminally-ill scientist who turns into a power-hungry megalomaniac after uploading the contents of his brain onto a computer. Ensemble cast includes Morgan Freeman, Paul Bettany, Kate Mara, Rebecca Hall, Cory Hardrict, Cillian Murphy and Clifton Collins, Jr.
INDEPENDENT & FOREIGN FILMS
“13 Sins” (R for violence, profanity and bloody images) Remake of Game of Death (2006), a horror flick revolving around a down on his luck salesman (Mark Webber) manipulated to perform a series of increasingly sinister tasks for a promised prize of $6.2 million. With Devon Graye, Rutina Wesley and Ron Perlman. “Authors Anonymous” (PG-13 for suggestive material) Ensemble comedy about the envy which shows its ugly face in a support group of aspiring writers when their most recent member (Kaley Cuoco) becomes an overnight sensation. Cast includes Chris Klein, Teri Polo, Dylan Walsh and Dennis Farina. “Bank$tas” (Unrated) Buddy comedy about a couple of recent finance grads
A HAUNTED HOUSE 2 is the sequel to the hilarious box-office hit starring Marlon Wayans as Malcolm and Gabriel Iglesias. (Courtesy photo) (Michael Seater and Joe Dinicol) who hatch a plan to prevent their crooked boss (Alan Thicke) from implementing a bank loan scheme designed to cheat millions of college students. With Grace Lynn Kung, Laura Vandervoort and Brandon Firla. “Cesar’s Last Fast” (Unrated) Farm workers’ rights are the focus of this documentary chronicling the 36-day water fast which would prove to be Chicano labor leader Cesar Chavez’s final act of protest.
“Fading Gigolo” (R for profanity, sexuality and brief nudity) John Turturro wrote, directed and stars in the romantic comedy as a dashing Don Juan who woos wealthy widows in order to help out a cash-strapped pal (Woody Allen). Cast includes Sofia Vergara, Sharon Stone, Liev Schreiber, Jill Scott, Vanessa Paradis and Aida Turturro.
“The Final Member” (R for graphic nudity, phallic images, sexual references and brief profanity) Genitalia on ice documentary, set 30 miles from the Arctic Circle, extolling the effort of the world’s only museum dedicated to the display of penises to add its first human specimen to its prized collection. “Half the Road” (Unrated) Female empowerment documentary exploring the world of women’s professional cycling. “Kid Cannabis” (Unrated) Idaho crime caper revisiting the real-life exploits of an 18 year-old, high school dropout (Jonathan Daniel Brown) who quit his job as a pizza de-
livery boy to build a multimillion dollar Marijuana empire. Featuring Ron Perlman, John C. McGinley, Aaron Yoo and Kenny Warmald.
“A Promise” (Unrated) Romance drama, set in Germany prior to the outbreak of World War I, revolving around a woman (Rebecca Hall) who falls in love with her husband’s (Alan Rickman) young protégé (Richard Madden) and vows to wait for his return before the war separates them for a half-dozen years. With Toby Murray, Maggie Steed and Shannon Tarbet. “small time” (R for sexual references) Coming-of-age drama revolving around a high school grad (Devon Bostick) from a broken family who frustrates his mother (Bridget Moynahan) by deciding to skip college in favor of working on his estranged-father’s (Christopher Meloni) used car lot. With Dean Norris, Garcelle Beauvais, Amaury Nolasco and Ken Davitian.
“Tasting Menu” (PG-13 for brief profanity) Romantic comedy about ex-lovers (Stephen Rea and Claudia Bassols) who reunite to keep a reservation made a year earlier at a restaurant billed as the best in the world. With Fionnula Flanagan, Jan Cornet and Togo Igawa. (In English and Catalan with subtitles) “Vanishing Pearls: The Oystermen of Pointe a la Hache” (Unrated) David vs. Goliath documentary, detailing a tiny, Louisiana fishing village’s desperate struggle for justice since having their way of life ruined by the BP oil spill of 2010.
The Stax Museum of American Soul Music will host a booksigning on Saturday (April 19th) for “Southern Soul-Blues,” the latest book from David Whiteis. Whiteis, a Chicagobased freelance writer and educator. is the author of “Chicago Blues: Portraits and Stories.” With the foreward by Denise LaSalle, “Southern Soul-Blues” features profiles of LaSalle, Bobby Rush, Latimore, the late J. Blackfoot and other veteran performers. Mixed in are looks at contemporary artists such as Willie Clayton, Sir Charles Jones, Ms. Jody and T. K. Soul. Along the way, according to a Booklist review, are discussions that “touch on issues of faith and sensuality, artistic identity and stereotyping, trickster antics, and future directions of the genre.” The booksigning is from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free with purchase of the book, or $12 regular admission.
Withers images power Rhodes College Music History display
Historical photography of legendary musicians such as B. B. King, Elvis Presley, Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington are on exhibit at Rhodes College Barret Library. The images are part of the collection of renowned Memphis photographer and photojournalist, Dr. Ernest C. Withers. A free reception by the Mike Curb Institute for Music will be held Thursday (April 17th) from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Rhodes College Barret Library, 2000 North Parkway. The speakers will be Rosalind Withers, president of the Withers Collection Museum and Gallery, 333 Beale Street, and Dr. John Bass, program manager for the Mike Curb Institute for Music. “This exhibit features up to 50 images of some never before seen images from our archive,” says Withers, “and features musicians from the blues, jazz and R&B categories.” Bass said the exhibit will be on display through May 6th.
‘I Am Not the Father’ documentary set for April 26th SSN debut
Memphis native Marcus L. Matthews’ documentary – “I Am Not the Father” – is scheduled for a national television debut on Soul of the South Network (SSN) on April 26th. The documentary is based on book with the same title. A screening will be held the same night of the television debut, an opportunity to meet the cast and crew. Matthews, who is also the executive producer of the film, will host the screening at A-Game Restaurant and Sports Bar, 6642 Winchester from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Admission is $5 and the first 25 attendees will receive a free copy of the film. The SSN broadcast of “I Am Not the Father” will stream live at marcuslmatthews.com.
COMMUNITY
Tri-State Defender
BRIEFS & THINGS Forum 2 on Saturday for ShelbyCounty Primary candidates
The Memphis Branch NAACP, in collaboration with the “politically active community in Memphis,” will sponsor Forum 2 for candidates in the Shelby County Primary Election on Saturday (April 19th) The free event is set to begin at 3 p.m. at Mt. Olive CME Cathedral Church, 538 Dr. Martin L. King Jr. Ave. Invited to make presentations are candidates for Shelby County District Attorney, Assessor of Property, County Trustee, Circuit Court Clerk, Criminal Court Clerk, Juvenile Court Clerk, Probate Court Clerk, and County Clerk & Register.
ArtsMemphis workshop to put focus on engaging diverse audiences
One of the biggest challenges facing arts organizations is increasing their popularity and support base by attracting new and diverse audiences. To help local arts and cultural organizations successfully meet that challenge, ArtsMemphis will host a free “Audiences Everywhere Workshop” from 9 a.m. – noon on May 6, at the Sedgwick CMS training offices, 1100 Ridgeway Loop. The three-hour workshop will be led by Matt Lehrman, an nationally known consultant for arts and cultural organizations who has spent much of the past decade working with like groups to raise the visibility of theatre, music, dance, art & cultural attractions through audience engagement. Lehrman is the principal of Arizona-based Audience Avenue LLC. “Part of ArtsMemphis’ mission is to help all local arts groups attract and keep patrons,” said Susan Schadt, executive director of ArtsMemphis. “This workshop will offer these groups strategic ideas about how to grow their audiences, develop new donors and raise public awareness about them.” Leadership of all arts and cultural organizations in the Memphis area, including executive directors, artistic directors, curators, development executives, marketing professionals and board members, are encouraged to attend the workshop. To register online, visit www.artsmemphis.org/events, or contact Lauren Boyer with ArtsMemphis at 901-578-2787 or lboyer@artsmemphis.org.
Career Center moving from Poplar Avenue to Walnut Grove
The Tennessee Department of Labor & Workforce Development is relocating its Tennessee Career Center services from 1295 Poplar Avenue to 3040 Walnut Grove Rd. The Walnut Grove Career Center will open at 8 a.m. on April 28th. The Poplar Avenue office will be closed April 2425. Job seekers may receive employment services on those two days at the Career Center at 4240 Hickory Hill. Career Center staff helps job seekers connect with employers who have listed jobs with both the Career Center and with Jobs4TN.gov – the department’s online. Job applicants can get career information, use the Internet, take part in job preparation workshops and post résumés. The phone number for the Walnut Grove Road office will remain the same as the Poplar Avenue number: 901-5437535. Career Center hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. BRIEFLY: First Alliance Bank is sponsoring a free seminar about the importance of personal finance for adults aged 30 and younger in the Uptown neighborhood north of downtown from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Island Community Church, 721 North. Topics include establishing good credit, managing student debt and learning how to save and invest wisely. Breakfast will be served. Space is limited and advance registration is required through FABStudentBankingSeminar.Eventbrite.com. BRIEFLY: The Discount Wigs 3 ribbon cutting and grand opening will be at noon Friday (April 18th) on the front lawn of Southland Mall. After a short program, refreshments will be served inside the store.
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April 17 - 23, 2014
The Second Annual Prayer Breakfast for Kenyan Kids included an opportunity to bridge the language gap
To Kenya, with love! Special to The New Tri-State Defender
The Second Annual Prayer Breakfast for Kenyan Kids was held Saturday morning (April 12) at the Salvation Army Kroc Center to support the orphans and vulnerable children in Kenya, Africa. It was a unique opportunity for those in attendance to make a monetary contribution to send care packages and supplies to the Kenyan children. Proceeds from the breakfast will be used to support the Maua Methodist Hospital in rural Kenya and its outreach programs to the community, including AIDS orphans. Medications and medical supplies will be delivered to the hospital in July. The prayer breakfast also was the setting of an art exchange exhibit between the children of Caldwell Guthrie Elementary School in North Memphis and the children at the ECD Clark School in Maua, Kenya. More than 100 supporters attended the breakfast and exhibit. Michaels, an arts and crafts retail chain, is making a contribution to the Kenyan children this year. Two of its stores in the Memphis area have donated about seven boxes of art supplies to the children at the ECD Clark School. Supplies include crayons, glitter, paper, etc. Cheryl Simmons, a teacher at Caldwell Guthrie, said the artwork, which was displayed, inspired and motivated her students. They’d ask about the children in Kenya and about going to the country themselves, she said. The mission team is from Germantown United Methodist Church (GUMC). Those who plan on going to Kenya in July will take care packages and supplies and deliver the artwork from the Memphis children to the children in Maua and bring back their artwork. Last year the art exchange was based on a theme. This year’s theme is: “Where do you want to go when you grow up.” Once the children from Memphis and Kenya have completed their artwork, it will be displayed at the next prayer breakfast in 2015. “A lot people would like to go to Kenya, but have other obligations,” said former state representative and former city councilmember Carol Chumney, who made the trip last year. “If they can’t go they still can purchase a ticket to the breakfast or do something to help the children in Kenya. If not, they can give us their prayers.” After state Rep. John Deberry prayed, the Rev. Birgitte French, senior pastor at Cross Roads United Methodist Church in Collierville, Tenn., spoke about her experiences as a missionary in the Congo, Algeria, and Kenya. The Rev. Richard Smith, pastor of GUMC; the Rev. Derek Talbird, pastor of Living Word Ministries; Bishop Dr. Dandridge Wilborn, pastor of Golden Leaf Cathedral; and Pastor David Lewis also prayed for the children of Kenya and those in attendance. While in Kenya, French worked with the refugees from the genocide in Rwanda and Burundi. She spoke of children in Kenya pressing their hands against the glass windshield of her car and then saying, “Mommy, do you have any food for us?” Valetta Brinson, an opera singer and educator at Southwest Tennessee Community College, also delivered remarks about her work in the AIDS outreach effort, recited a poem about the tragedy of AIDS, and sang a song. She formerly played the role of Coretta Scott King in “The Promise.” Chumney spoke as well about her experience last year as a mission team member to Kenya. “It was amazing to meet the children. The people are so friendly in Kenya and are very happy despite all of the country’s problems,” she said. “They have no running water. The health care by our standards needs a lot of assistance. And there are parents of children with AIDS. It was an amazing experience, a life-changing experience.” Chumney said she helped to build a house for a homeless family, painted dorm rooms for doctors that the Maua Methodist Hospital had hope to recruit, and took 17 orphans to a bio-intensive farm to learn better farming techniques that they can share with hundreds of other youth. She also helped to build a fish tank and painted a pigpen on the farm. “We built the house on top of a mountain,” Chumney recalls. “Climbing the mountain was tough. But a woman about 70 years old, who climbed the mountain every day to get water, had to help me up the mountain.” The next mission team will participate as well in patient care, hospital physical plant improvements and construct a small home for a family of children orphaned by the AIDS pandemic. Part of the trip will involve working with AIDS or-
John Soclo of Liberia and Valetta Brinson with Carol Chumney at the Second Annual Prayer Breakfast for Kenyan Kids held Saturday morning (April 12) at the Salvation Army Kroc Center. (Photos: Rome Withers)
Shelby County Democratic mayoral candidate Dr. Kenneth T. Whalum Jr. joined in with more than 100 supporters for the prayer breakfast.
State Rep. John Deberry, Carol Chumney and Barry Smith, vice president of Bancorp South, Inc., attended this yearʼs prayer breakfast. phans who are part of the Hope Companions Empowerment Project that teaches sustainability skills to these youth. “If we can love the kids in Kenya, we ought to love each other in Memphis,” said Chumney. “It’s one of our challenges.” Helena Chemicals, Crosslinks, Republic Coffee, More Than Closets, Raleigh Pediatric Group, MECA, and others sponsored the prayer breakfast. (For more information about the next mission trip to Kenya, contact Carol Chumney at 901-634-6540.)
Scholarship program extends legacy of Fannie Cole Clark
When the late Fannie Cole Clark was a child, she created her own classroom beneath a backyard tree and Fannie Cole taught the Clark neighborhood kids. Even at an early age, she held a deep passion for education. Years later, she would fulfill her life’s dream by becoming a Memphis City Schools educator, as well as an accomplished musician, recording artist, songwriter and founder of the Fannie Clark Singers and Tennessee Mass Choir. As a community activist for more than 20 years, Clark welcomed candidates of all political affiliations to her home to speak to hundreds of citizens about their plans to improve Memphis and Shelby County. To honor her work, family members, friends, and the community she loved have established the Fannie Cole Clark Scholarship for high school seniors. The scholarship program will be officially launched on May 16th at 7 p.m. at the inaugural Fannie Cole Clark Scholarship Banquet at Rejoice in the Covenant Church, 2931 Ridgeway Rd. Tickets are $25 to cover the cost of the meal and banquet. Persons unable to attend the banquet and who wish to honor the memory of Clark by assisting students may make donations payable to the Fannie Cole Clark Scholarship Fund. Contributions should be mailed to Rejoice in the Covenant Church; P.O. Box 770357. Memphis, TN 38177. Donations are tax deductible. Scholarship applicants must be high school seniors who desire to enter college in 2014 and major in either education, music or political science. Interested applicants are asked to submit their name, address and contact information; an essay of 500 words outlining life goals, school and community Involvement; and three letters of recommendation. Applicants must have at least a GPA of 2.5 or higher. GPA’s must be verified by the student’s high school guidance counselor. The top 10 candidates will be interviewed by phone. Two students will be selected to receive the 2014-15 Fannie Cole Clark Scholarship in the amount of $1,000 each, plus a $250 book stipend for the freshman year. The application deadline is May 12th. Each recipient will be notified of his or her selection by May 19th. Funds will be disbursed to the student after a letter of acceptance is received from an accredited college or university. To apply, students may send the required information, essay and letters of recommendation to: www.ritcc@bellsouth.net or by mail to Rejoice in the Covenant Church; P.O. Box 770357, Memphis, TN 38177. For more information on the scholarship fundraiser or to apply for the award, e-mail www.ritcc@bellsouth.net or call 901-205-7265 or 901-754-1057.
‘My baby wants to see’ A motherʼs mission to save her sonʼs sight
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Wiley Henry
If you were asked to define Retinoschisis – or pronounce it for that matter – most likely you’d be stumped. That’s what happened to Gino and Alicia L. Hall when Dr. Steven Charles, founder and CEO of the renowned Charles Retina Institute in Memphis, diagnosed their son, Gino LaVon Hall Jr., with Juvenile X-Linked Retinoschisis. Retinoschisis is a blinding, hereditary disease that affects males – about 5,000 to 25,000 of them worldwide – and causes progressive loss of central and peripheral vision due to a split of the retina or retinal degeneration. Gino Jr. has suffered from it since his mother first noticed a problem with his left eye when he was 16 months old. Now he’s 10 years old and blind in one eye. Dr. Charles is moni-
After launching the nonprofit GLH Retinoschisis Foundation in January, Alicia L. Hall held a fundraiser on March 19 for her son Gino LaVon Hall Jr. at Shiloh Baptist Church of Memphis. His grandmother, Bobbie Cox, was there to support him. (Photo: Wiley Henry)
toring the other eye to make sure it doesn’t degenerate. Alicia Hall is on a mission to find a cure and save her son’s sight. She has been re-
lentless in her quest and now focused on raising funds through the GLH Retinoschisis Foundation, a nonprofit she founded in January.
On Saturday, May 10th, at 5 p.m., the Foundation will present a hair and fashion show at the Fogelman Executive Center at 330 Innovation Drive, Suite 206, on the University of Memphis campus. Guest models include Dr. Tonya Lyons, the Rev. Sidney Malone, and Yvette Whiteside. Stacey Merino will provide music. Vendors also will be available. All proceeds go directly to the GLH Retinoschisis Foundation for X-Linked Juvenile Retinoschisis research. “The purpose of the Foundation is to help raise awareness for Retinoschisis as well as find a cure for Retinoschisis,” said Hall, hoping and praying a cure is in sight. “It’s just that no one has looked for a cure because the disease is so rare.” “Half the boys get it in families if the mother is the carrier. It’s gender specific and has nothing to do with stress or any other disease,” said Dr. Charles, one of the world’s leading vitre-
oretinal surgeons who had performed more than 30,000 surgeries in 25 countries. After researching her family history, Hall learned that her father and one of her nephews have struggled with Retinoschisis since they were very young and now classified as legally blind. She is preparing her son for what could be a life of darkness. Recounting the gist of a recent conversation with her son, Hall said, “He wishes he could see. That’s why this Foundation is so important. My baby wants to see.” (For ticket information, contact Alicia Hall at 901290-3566 or by email at g l h re t i n o s c h i s i s f o u n d a tion@gmail.com or at www.facebook.com/glhretino schisisfoundation. The GLH Retinoschisis Foundation is located at 6025 Stage Rd., Suite 42-330, Memphis, TN 38134.)
COMMUNITY
Page 12
Tri-State Defender
April 17 - 23, 2014
Wharton unveils ‘difficult choices’ budget proposal
Shelby County Sheriff Bill Oldham chats with a group of young men before departing on a MATA bus to Wolfchase Galleria and back. The bus trip is part of an initiative called MATA G.E.T.S. Memphis, which is designed to teach middle school boys the basics of reading bus schedules, taking public transportation, and conducting themselves appropriately. (Courtesy photos)
Bus trip yields dividends for “Man of the House” youth
Shelby County Sheriff Bill Oldham joined two-dozen young men from middle schools across the city of Memphis at the Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) North End terminal downtown for a Saturday morning (April 12th) lesson about local geography. He was accompanied by Dr. Todd Motley, the Memphis Boss Riders’ motorsports group, and volunteer mentors from law enforcement on a bus trip to Wolfchase Galleria and back, followed by lunch and words of wisdom from men who expressed concern about the success of students in school and in their communities. MATA G.E.T.S. Memphis, a local geography initiative, is one of the 110 Tasks, a youth literacy initiative founded by Tony Nichelson that focuses on the plight of young urban males. The bus trip was designed to teach middle school boys the basics of reading bus schedules, taking public transportation, and conducting themselves appropriately. It is part of a larger
Legal Notices
NOTICE TO BIDDER(S)
Sealed bids will be received by the Shelby County Government in the Department of Housing, 1075 Mullins Station Road, Memphis, Tennessee 38134 until 9:30 a.m. on April 30, 2014 as shown below: MULTIPLE AND ENTIRELY DIFFERENT REHABILITATION JOBS ARE CONTAINED IN THIS BID NOTICE. BIDDER(S) MAY ELECT TO BID ON ANY OR ALL OF THE JOBS IN THE NOTICE. SEALED BID SBI-000267 DUE: April 30, 2014
1. Rehabilitation of Owner-Occupied Housing Units throughout Shelby County some of which may require the use of lead based paint safe work practices and techniques; and 2. Lead Based Paint Hazard Reduction Jobs.
Detailed specifications for items above may be obtained in the Shelby County Department of Housing at the aforementioned address. All bids will be opened and publicly read by the Shelby County Government at the time mentioned above at the Department of Housing, 1075 Mullins Station Road Memphis, TN 38134, (901) 222-7600.
As a condition precedent to bidding, each bidder must apply and qualify for a Vendor Number and Equal Opportunity Compliance Eligibility Number prior to the submitting your response. Your EOC number must be displayed on the outside of your envelope for each bid submission.
As a condition precedent to being awarded jobs involving Lead Based Paint, contractors must be certified through EPA as an RRP contractor and/or show proof of application to EPA for said certification and be certified through the State of Tennessee as a Lead Based Paint Firm. Proof of licensing at time of bid submission is required by the Shelby County Department of Housing.
The label, which is attached to the specifications shall be completely filled out and attached to the bid submission envelope. You must display your current E.O.C. Eligibility Number or your Locally Owned Small Business (LOSB) Number on the outside of your envelope and a copy of all licenses and insurance policies must be included in your submitted bid package. Unless the label is completely filled out and your current E.O.C. Eligibility Number is noted thereon your bid may be returned to you unopened. Should your label be lost or misplaced, please note the appropriate information in the lower left-hand corner of your envelope. The Department of Housing encourages participation from WBE, MBE, LOSB, and Section 3 Contractors under these rehabilitation programs.
The Shelby County Government reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to
mentoring program designed to teach boys from single-parent homes to become the “man of the house” by acquiring skills to assist their parents and siblings. During Father’s Day weekend, Man of the House Mentoring will host its annual event at the National Civil Rights Museum, with nearly 200 men and boys coming together for a private tour of the facility, hands-on work skills, and fellowship with their peers. Nichelson said Man of the House Mentoring, a product of the 110 Institute, is about hands-on work skills for all middle school boys, civil rights history from 1954 to 2014, and personal development through the study of “Proverbs” and the teachings of “Confucius.” For more details about MATA G.E.T.S. Memphis, “Man of the House” Mentoring, or if you would like to have your son participate in positive programs in the city, contact Tony Nichelson at 901-336-2399 or email him at manofthehousementoring@gmail.com.
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REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS DUE: WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30, 2014 AT 4:00 PM
Shelby County Government, Tennessee, an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer, seeks to retain the services of multiple architectural/engineering consulting firms to provide professional services related to the following: “FACILITY CONDITION ASSESSMENT FOR SHELBY COUNTY SCHOOLS” (RFQ# 14-004-55) By order of MARK H. LUTTRELL, JR, MAYOR SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT
Legal Notice REQUEST FOR STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS MSCAA Project No. 14-1374-00 to provide consulting services Jet Bridge & Aircraft Parking Utilization Study
Statements of Qualifications for furnishing Jet Bridge & Aircraft Parking Utilization Study, as hereinafter set forth, will be received by Staff Services Division, Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority (MSCAA), 3505 Tchulahoma Road, Memphis, Tennessee, 38118, until 2:00 PM local time on Thursday, May 15, 2014. Use the above address for all means of delivery. A complete Information Package with sub-
Saying he took no pleasure in the sacrifices City employees and retirees are being asked to make, Mayor A C Wharton Jr. on Tuesday (April 15th) presented the Memphis City Council with a 2015 fiscal year budget that he said reflects difficult choices. According to Wharton, the budget proposal represents difficult choices his administration had to make to avoid raising taxes, while making strategic investments in core neighborhoods, securing the City’s financial future, and protecting the pension system. The proposed 2015 fiscal year operating budget is $596 million. That’s an $18 million decrease from fiscal year 2014. The proposed CIP Budget for fiscal year 2015 is $83 million. “It is a moral imperative to ensure that our employees’ pension is there for them when they retire,” Wharton said. “Also, pension reform is a critical first step in securing the City’s financial future. We are going into this budget season with an annual
increase in our pension obligation of between $60 and $80 million and a total unfunded liability over $700 million. Without raising taxes or cutting services, some tough choices had to be Mayor A C Wharton Jr. made.” More than 70 percent of the City’s budget is for personnel costs, so this is the logical place to make changes, Wharton said. “I only propose these changes because I am confident that history will show that these difficult choices were the best way to secure the City’s pension and its financial future.
Key features:
Strengthening the pension and securing the City financially are key drivers of the proposal.
No tax increase is proposed, and the budget maintains current levels of core services. Recommends transitioning the pension to a Defined Contribution or 401(a) retirement plan. Proposes that the City no longer subsidize healthcare benefits for Medicare-eligible retirees and reform current employee health plans for a savings of $27 million. Proposes no cuts to public safety and will rely on reorganizations and reassigning of duties to produce efficiencies. Includes a pension and public safety reserve of $15 million. Strengthens public transportation with an additional $1.5 million allocated to MATA. Proposes a major $23 million investment in the Raleigh/Frayser area to redevelop the mall for public and private uses to help revitalize area neighborhoods, create jobs and generate revenue. For more information on the fiscal year 2015 proposed budget, http://www.memphistn.gov/Government/FinanceDivision.aspx.
Students get hands-on experience with emergency preparedness kit
Students in the Career Development /Job Placement program at The Arc Mid-South recently had the opportunity to get valuable hands-on experience and job training. Thanks to a collaborative project between Volunteer Mid-South and CN Railroad, the students assembled “build your own emergency preparedness” kits to be given to students in Title 1 programs in area schools. The bags included a calendar with disaster tips, a card with disaster numbers and information, and an activity book for kids provided by FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) that focuses on responding to disasters in a fun format. Often low-income families are the least prepared for a disaster. The goal of the project is to provide the reusable shopping bags printed with a list of items needed in an emergency
CLASSIFIEDS
so that families will be more prepared in the time of need. Many items needed to evacuate are already around the house and will
Students in the Career Development /Job Placement program at The Arc MidSouth received training on how to “build your own emergency preparedness” kits. (Courtesy photo)
hopefully “live” in the bags. A quick look at the list on the bag will remind families of what other items should be gathered and taken along.
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mittal instructions, additional data, selection criteria and response format may be found on our website (www.mscaa.com) on or after April 14, 2014. The scope of work generally consists of airport and terminal planning services at Memphis International Airport in direct support of the Concourse Modernization Program (general information regarding the program is available at http://www.flymemphis.com). The primary objective of this specific scope assignment is to establish recommendations regarding the airportʼs jet bridges and terminal aircraft parking aprons. Principal segments of the initial assignment will include Airport Inventory, Airline Scope of Operation Identification, Existing Systems Capability, clear alternative recommendations for use of available jet bridges and associated aircraft parking, and Cost Estimating. The scope assignment may be expanded at a later date to include design of recommended improvements, and preparation of Construction Documents, Bid Assistance, and Construction Phase Support Services.
All Respondents are hereby notified that all updates, addenda and additional information, if any, shall be posted to the MSCAA website and Respondents are responsible for checking the MSCAA website up to the time of the proposal submission deadline. The MSCAA hereby notifies that it will review and award contracts in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C. 2000d to 2000d-4a and Title 49, Part 26, Code of Federal Regulations, Department of Transportation, Subtitle A, Office of the Secretary, Part 21, Nondiscrimination in Federally Assisted Programs of the Department of Transportation issued pursuant to such Act. MSCAA further notifies all Bidders that it will affirmatively ensure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated
Cheyenne Johnson Shelby County Assessor of Property
against on the grounds of age, race, sex, color, national origin, creed, religion, sexual orientation or disability in its hiring and employment practices, or in admission to, access to, or operation of its programs, services and activities. The DBE participation goal for this contract is 0% in accordance with the requirements of the Contract Documents. This project is Federal Grant Funded. Therefore, the only participation that will be counted toward meeting this goal will be participation by certified DBEs, the owners of which have been certified as having a personal net worth less than $1.32 million.
This project might be funded with Federal and/or state grants. A Notice to Proceed for Design will be issued once funding is established. The MSCAA reserves the right to reject any and all responses in whole or in part to this solicitation, and is under no obligation to award this project to any of the firms or teams of firms responding to this request. MEMPHIS-SHELBY COUNTY AIRPORT AUTHORITY By Scott A. Brockman, A.A.E., President & CEO ALL INTERESTED BIDDERS
The Shelby County Board of Education is seeking proposals in response to its Re-
quest for Proposal for Nursing Services-42 Registered Nurses 2014-2015. Visit our website for additional information:
http://www.scsk12.org/uf/procurement/bid s.php Questions concerning submission of this proposal should be addressed to Toni Jones at 901 416-5355 or emailed to jonesta@scsk12.org
Auto for Sale
I Walter Gipson have possession of a white 99 " Ford Econoline van, vin 1FMRE11W6XHB94199. Partiesinterestedinvehiclecontactmecertifiedmail at 4489 MillstreamApt 2, Memphis 38116. Return receipt requested within 10 days.
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SPORTS Tri-State Defender, Thursday, April 17 - 23, 2014, Page 13
SPORTS VIEW
Shattering the NCAA exploitive business model NNPA News Service
by Everett Glenn
Everett Glenn
The recent National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) decision granting Northwestern University football players the right to unionize, if upheld, will shatter the NCAA’s business model. It is safe to say that we are at the dawn of a new era in college sports when we add these elements to the
mix: The frontal attack launched a few days before by noted antitrust lawyer Jeffrey Kessler, accusing the NCAA of colluding to deprive athletes of the ability to earn more than the value of their scholarships. The pending lawsuit challenging the NCAA rule that bars players from earning money from the use of their images. At some point, the athletes, who do the heavy lifting, will finally receive a slice of the $16 billion per year college basketball and football pie. The ruling that college athletes are employees and not merely “student-athletes” confirms what we have known all along: College sports is big business – for everyone except the athletes who make it possible. College basketball and football have long operated as quasifarm systems for professional teams by discovering talent, training players, and highlighting performance. The NCAA and the college administrators who lead its member institutions would have us believe that they place the best interest of the student-athlete above all else. They have produced a TV commercial that reminds us: “We have 400,000 student-athletes and most of them will go pro in something other than sports.” Whether they go pro in sports or “something other than sports,” college sports is given higher priority than academics on campuses across the nation, even at premiere academic institutions. To its credit, Northwestern ranks No. 1 among the six power conferences (ACC, Big East, Big-Ten, Big-12, Pac12 and SEC) with an 83 percent graduation rate. Even so, Kain Colter, their former quarterback and the leader of the movement to allow college football players to form a union, was steered away from pursuing a pre-med curriculum because a chemistry class conflicted with football practice. Consequently, he ended up majoring in psychology. In the Northwestern case, NLRB Regional Director Ohr ignored the myth of the “student-athlete” and decided that Northwestern football players are primarily employees whose principal job is to generate revenue. And that’s just the beginning of the NCAA’s woes. Next up is the Ed O’Bannon lawsuit. In that case, former college athletes are challenging the NCAA’s ability to profit off the name and likeness of players without compensating them. In the most direct challenge yet to the NCAA’s economic model, Kessler, the attorney who helped represent the NFLPA in the landmark antitrust case in which NFL players won free agency, has filed suit accusing the NCAA of colluding to deprive athletes of earning more than the value of their scholarships. The main objective of Kessler’s lawsuit is to strike down permanently the restrictions that prevent Division 1 basketball and football players from being fairly compensated for the billions of dollars in revenues they help generate. If judges in upcoming court cases challenging the NCAA apply the same objectivity as the NLRB exemplified, a union will be the least of the NCAA’s worries. As a preemptive strike against the inevitable change in college sports, don’t be surprised if you see both public and private universities begin to offer forms of compensation beyond the traditional college scholarship. For the NCAA to remain relevant, it cannot continue to defend a system that results in so many lost college opportunities, especially concentrated among African-American males from low- and middle-income families. These changes should not be restricted to universities; they should also extend to the colleges themselves, coaches, advertisers, television networks, facility operators, athletic gear manufacturers and retailers. The wholesale exploitation of college athletes is the true definition of unsportsmanlike conduct. (Everett L. Glenn, an attorney and former sports agent, was one of the first agents to represent multiple NFL and NBA first-round draft picks in the same year. His clients have included three NFL Hall of Fame inductees and 11 first-round draft picks.)
Where are all the black baseball superstars? theGrio
by Stefen Lovelace Jackie Robinson Day – celebrated this week – is the annual day when Major League Baseball celebrates the incredible change and integration Robinson helped usher into the sport, and society as a whole. Robinson broke baseball’s color barrier so that more African-American players would have the chance to play the “national pastime” at its highest level. Sadly, 60-plus years later, potential black players aren’t taking advantage of that opportunity. Last month, the league released a report that said just 8.3 percent of players on 2014 opening day rosters identified themselves as black. Twenty years ago, that number was more than double; nearly 20 percent of the league was black in 1986. The participation of black players reached its peak in 1975, when 27 percent of the players were African American. We’re going backwards. Now, black baseball diversity has returned to late-1950s levels. The NFL and the NBA are clearly the leagues in which young black athletes want to play, as football and basketball feature over 60 and 70 percent black participation respectively. Potential reasons have been well documented. There’s the difficult barrier of entry, as the sport requires several players to play (while you can throw a football with one person, and shoot
hoops by yourself). And there’s the cost of playing, as the sport requires more equipment and travel than most. And there’s the lack of ballparks in inner cities, which is the biggest pool of potential black talent. Still, those reasons don’t explain why there’s been such a steady, precipitous decline in the last two decades. Perhaps a better explanation for the lack of participation are the players – or lack thereof – that young black athletes idolize in the sport. When was the last time there was a true black baseball superstar? Someone that had the same crossover appeal as someone like LeBron James does. Someone who had Nike gear kids could buy, commercials kids could watch, and qualities that make you gravitate towards watching (and wanting to be like) them. Ken Griffey Jr. was the last major black baseball star who fit that criteria, and his peak was in the 1990s. You could, potentially, argue Barry Bonds as well, but with the steroid scandal and fallout, he may have done more to hurt young black player participation then help it. Derek Jeter carried the torch from Griffey, but didn’t quite have the same appeal to inner-city kids that Griffey did, which could partly be attributed to the fact that Jeter was never a power hitter, and identifies as biracial. The current notable black players – like Jeter, Ryan Howard, C.C. Sabathia, Jimmy Rollins, Curtis Granderson, and Torii Hunter – are all heading towards the end of their careers.
Younger, promising players like Andrew McCutchen, Justin Upton and Jason Heyward unfortunately don’t have the charisma to have real influence. Prince Fielder has the famous name, and the talent, but also doesn’t exactly look the part of a top-notch athlete kids could emulate. Griffey had the million-dollar smile, the defensive theatrics, and home run power to make him a fan favorite. Baseball doesn’t currently have a black athlete like that. Basketball has LeBron James and Kevin Durant, football has Russell Wilson, Robert Griffin III and Cam Newton, and even golf has Tiger Woods. The bigger the star, the more effect he can have on kids in participating in a sport. MLB has created a task force to try to curb the decline. Each year they hold a day to honor Jackie Robinson’s legacy, and celebrate how far the sports has come. Unfortunately none of these initiatives have had any real, lasting effect on black players participating in baseball. Robinson certainly deserves the yearly praise he receives from this special day, and we all should remember the hardships and obstacles he overcame. … But starting tomorrow, and throughout the other 364 days, baseball needs to find a way to increase the number of black players in the majors. Cultivating a new star might be the quickest way to accomplish that. (Follow Stefen Lovelace ter @StefenLovelace.)
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Hall of Famer Hank Aaron is honored on the 40th anniversary of his 715th homer prior to the game between the Atlanta Braves and the New York Mets at Turner Field on April 8th, 2014 in Atlanta. (Photo: Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Hank Aaron receives hate mail after defending President Obama Reports of racially insensitive messages come out on Jackie Robinson Day
by theGrio
Forty years after baseball legend Hank Aaron was hit with a barrage of hate mail for breaking Babe Ruth’s home run record, he’s reportedly getting nasty letters in the mail again — this time for defending President Barack Obama. In a recent USA Today interview, the 80-yearold Hall of Famer used some incendiary words to describe the partisan opponents of the president. “This country has a black president, but
when you look at a black president, President Obama is left with his foot stuck in the mud from all of the Republicans with the way he’s treated. We have moved in the right direction, and there have been improvements, but we still have a long ways to go in the country. The bigger difference is that back then they had hoods. Now they have neckties and starched shirts,” he told the newspaper. Aaron, who is still affiliated with the Atlanta Braves organization, has been the subject of a right-wing backlash.
“Hank Aaron is a scumbag piece of (expletive) (racial slur),” read an email to the Braves’ front office from a man named Edward, according to USA Today. “My old man instilled in my mind from a young age, the only good (racial slur) is a dead (racial slur),” is how he concluded his message. Ironically, reports of the racially insensitive messages came out on Jackie Robinson Day, when Major League Baseball was commemorating the 67th anniversary of the integration of their sport.
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April 17 - 23, 2014
Tri-State Defender