VOL. 62, No. 16
www.tsdmemphis.com
April 18 - 24, 2013
Do ‘moving goalposts’ threaten African-American businesses?
ʻYes,ʼ say those who also see the city at risk Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Tony Jones
One of the city’s least known – but arguably most important – committees held its most recent meeting on
April 10th. Mandated by city ordinance, the Minority Business Development Oversight Committee is charged with assuring that the city’s minority- and women-owned businesses (MWBEs) get a fair chance at gaining contracts from both the public and private sectors. The meeting’s agenda called for
evaluating a report (from the city’s financial management office) that outlined local and MWBE firms’ inclusion in managing the city’s pension fund. Also on tap was a review of the Memphis Police Department’s business plan as an example of forward-thinking MWBE inclusion. A third item related to refining the committee’s mission and vision state-
ments. Several private business owners were in attendance, including IronHorse Capital Management and Preserver Partners, two locally-owned firms vying for business from the pension fund. Preserver is a minority-owned fiSEE MWBE ON PAGE 2
Star gazing…
Kyree McKay looks at Tony Allen of The Memphis Grizzlies with amazement as he gets his Grizz jersey signed at the FedExForum on Wednesday night. Kyree was one of the lucky fans to receive an autographed Tony Allen jersey on Fan Appreciation Night. The Grizzlies defeated the Utah Jazz 86 to 70. Next step is the NBA Playoffs. (See related story, photos on Sports, page 10. (Photo: Warren Roseborough)
Poison-letter scare leads to Miss. arrest
(CNN) – A Corinth, Miss., man was arrested Wednesday night in connection with possibly contaminated letters sent to President Barack Obama and Sen. Roger Wicker (R-Miss.). The FBI arrested Paul Kevin Curtis at his home, the U. S. Department of Justice said in a statement that also detailed that a third letter was sent to a Mississippi justice official. The letters to Wicker and Obama – discovered Tuesday – were stopped at a government mail-screening facility after initial tests indicated the presence of the deadly poison ricin. Because initial tests can be “inconsistent,” the envelopes have been sent off for additional tests, an FBI statement said. The FBI does not expect to receive results from the tests until Thursday (April 18), federal law enforcement sources told CNN. The letters read: “To see a wrong and not expose it, is to become a silent partner to its continuance.” They were signed “I am KC and I approve this message,” a source said. Reports of suspicious packages and envelopes also came into two Senate office buildings late Wednesday morning. Capitol Police evacuated the first floor of the Hart Senate Office Building for more than an hour. In reaction to the poison-letter scare in Washington, Memphis Mayor A C Wharton Jr. on Wednesday issued the following statement: “We are grateful that, to this point, these letters have been intercepted before causing injury to anyone. While it has not been confirmed that the letters originated from Memphis, it is regrettable that our name is connected SEE POISON ON PAGE 11
75 Cents
Africa in April Cultural Awareness Festival, No. 27 Kajanaku@tri-statedefender.com
by Karanja A. Ajanaku
If the Africa in April Cultural Awareness Festival, Inc. were a person who had just turned 27, what would one who knew him or her well say? “At 27, alive and well, 100 percent plus and moving on up,” said Yvonne B. Acey, the festival’s associate director. “We are quite excited and quite grateful for those who started with us and helped us along the way and gave us encouragement.” Acey said people often ask her and her husband, Executive Director David L. Acey Sr., “Why Africa? Why April?” Her answer is succinct. “We know the Africa connects us with the homeland – the culture, the continent, the music, the dance. We know April is a month of beginnings. It’s rebirth and regeneration and reconnection. Also an opportunity to get into your own identity.” Each year the festival honors an African country, with the Republic of Senegal filling the bill for 2013. The West Africa country has been honored twice previously, and the selection is tied to a visit last year to Memphis by Macky Sall, who is now the country’s president. “The Senegalese in Tennessee, in Memphis and around this area have an enormous population,” said Acey. “He (Sall) was in Memphis last year campaigning. David (Acey, her husband and executive director) took him around to different venues in the city…just giving him a taste of Memphis. He got excited. “And of course he won (the presidential election)!” Acey said while campaigning Sall asked if there was a chance Senegal could be honored again, giving him a chance to send “a big delegation.” The answer? Yes! From that conversation and an ongoing dialogue came Africa in April’s third tribute to Senegal. True to his word, President Sall cleared the way SEE AFRICA ON PAGE 7
- INSIDE -
• Boston bombing: It can happen anywhere!. See Opinion, page 4. • Jay-Z, Beyoncé embarrass White House – again. See Opinion, page 4. • Expo features young – but ready – entrepreneurs. See Business, page 5. • Hail (Shirley) Caesar! See Religion, page 6. • Why do black women still support Tyrese? See Entertainment, page 8. • Dine out and fight AIDS on April 25. See Health, page 11.
A group of Cummings Schools students have been reading Dr. Ben Carsonʼs bestseller, “Gifted Hands,” and Wednesday the author and readers came face to face. (Photo: George Tillman Jr.)
‘Gifted Hands’ Dr. Carson connects with Cummings The New Tri-State Defender
At Cummings School in South Memphis, renowned neurosurgeon, author and rising political factor Dr. Ben Carson rapidly is becoming a lifeline. Carson was in Memphis Wednesday as part of the “Think Big, Dream L.I.G.H.T.” Enlightenment Seminar held on the campus of the University of Memphis. He’s never stepped foot inside of Cummings,
but now he has shaken hands with some of the school’s Eagles. That pressing of the flesh came at the Holiday Inn-University after a private luncheon and before a meetand-greet mixer with U of M students prior to the public seminar at the Michael Rose Theater. The look on his face and on the faces of the students spoke to the instant connection. Cummings is the adopted school of the Inner L.I.G.H.T. Outreach
Organization, whose mission involves “life, intelligence, generosity, humility and talents,” according to Executive Director David Rose. A group of Cummings’ students have been reading Carson’s bestseller, “Gifted Hands.” In doing so, they have been getting acquainted with his personal story, which includes “growing up in a single parSEE CARSON ON PAGE 2
• Pledge of abstinence ceremony set for 40 girls. See Community, page 13.
MEMPHIS WEEKEND
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
H -57o - L-40o Mostl y Su nn y
H- 6 3 o - L - 4 6 o Most ly Sunn y
H- 6 9 o - L - 5 2 o P a r tl y C l ou dy
REGIONAL TEMPS LITTLE ROCK NASHVILLE JACKSON, MS
Friday H-60 L-39 H-56 L-42 H-61 L-40
Saturday H-67 L-46 H-64 L-44 H-70 L-43
Sunday H-68 L-50 H-70 L-51 H-75 L-53
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CARSON
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
ent home with dire poverty, poor grades, a horrible temper, and low self-esteem,” according to a post on his website. On Wednesday, Carson the author met his readers, who came with books in hand. They seemed to want him to see the pages bent back and twisted, with quotes marked – proof that they were indeed deep into the experience of learning how he overcame the odds. One student, clearly excited, talked about how he had started to do some of the things Carson had detailed in his book; and with his own measure of success. It was hard, the young man said, vowing to stick with it. At points, Carson seemed to light up like a Christmas tree, particularly when the students swarmed around him soon after he entered the room. Rose, noting that the Cummings student body consists of students “who hail from a single parent home, low-income environment and an insufficient educational background,” sees the need for Carson Scholar reading rooms in Memphis. “Establishing a reading room program would be an imperative step in redirecting student involvement and participation in academic excellence,” he wrote to The New Tri-State Defender.
(For more information about Inner L.I.G.H.T., visit www.InnerLIGHTpf.org.)
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NEWS
Tri-State Defender
April 18 - 24, 2013
MWBE
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
nancial services firm. Its difficulties in earning work from the pension fund would later become the defining issue of the meeting. Mary Bright and Joyce Douglas from the city’s Contract Compliance Office began the meeting with a presentation detailing the $116 million the city spent with MWBE’s from July 1, 2012 to February 29, 2013. Sam Johnson, the city’s chief investment manager, then took the floor, detailing the firms used and the resulting fees for their work in assisting the management of the city’s pension fund. Roundly referred to in the meeting as currently valued at “$2 billion,” several firms earned six figure fees for the fiscal year through Dec. 2012. The total payout to MWBE firms for the period was $796,074.63. The highest fee listed was $327,793 to the Paradigm Asset Management firm, based in White Plains, N.Y. None of the firms are locally-owned, the knowledge of which drew derisive comments that were immediately addressed by Chairman Ron Willis. Willis then called on county government financial consultant Robert Longfield of CSG Holdings, LLC, to inquire if the county has local and minority firms assisting in managing its pension fund. CSG also counts Memphis Light, Gas and Water among its clients. Longfield had earlier explained that the county has “about ten percent invested in minority businesses and eighteen percent in locally-owned business.” Elaborating, Longfield said, “Early
“If we do our job right, we will be put out of business,” said Ron Willis, chairman of the Minority Business Development Oversight Committee. (Photo: Shirley Jackson) in 1991 we did the first minority-only search for minority (businesses) in Shelby County. They’ve been very proactive in doing so. As has MLGW.” Willis asked why the city is not advancing in the same direction. He then allowed the local minority-owned firm Preserver, represented by President and Chief Investment Officer Dr. Floyd Tyler, to cite the company’s history in trying to gain work from the city. “You keep moving the goalposts,” said Tyler. “Every time we meet one parameter you introduce another.” IronHorse Capital Management’s representative, Kerr Tigrett, underlined Floyd’s comment, repeating the “goal-
posts” reference. “We thought as local businessmen that the city we grew up in, the city where we have our businesses, somebody from here would help us try to grow our business,” said Tigrett. Memphis Chief Investment Officer Johnson answered every question, explaining the parameters guiding the awarding of the contracts so far. For example, Preserver is what is considered an “alternative” type of fund manager, but the city’s policy does not prohibit the use of a firm of its type. Another core issue: Preserver was relatively new on the scene, established in 2009. At times, the discussion grew tense.
Eventually, however, it was agreed that the city’s finance office would work more diligently to find proper linkages that could benefit more MWBEs. The representatives of Preserver and IronHorse said they would continue to pursue work from Memphis in good faith. Chairman Willis summarized the value of the process in a follow-up interview. “If we do our job right, we will be put out of business,” said Willis. “Think about progressive cities. One of the things they do is invest in their own first. When you invest in your own the return is a natural advantage to your economy. We will see dollars start to flourish into our own community instead of into others.” While the issue center stage at the meeting concerned the potential growth of a particular minority firm, Perserver Partners, Willis stressed that the Minority Business Development Oversight Committee does not push any individual business. It makes sure that the wider process is followed to locate them, he said. “In the instance of this particular division, financial services represents a new area of growth in the minority business sector. There are not many that are experienced in pension allocation management. Our goal is to make sure the policy of the city division contracting for the work follows the city’s stated mandate,” Willis said. “If we can keep $200 million out of the $2 billion in the fund working locally, imagine the jobs that will create. “And when you support a small business it gives them a great reference. People respect you when they know your own city has confidence in you.”
Tri-State Defender
April 18 - 24, 2013
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OPINION
Tri-State Defender
April 18 - 24, 2013
John H. Sengstacke Publisher (1951 - 1997)
The Mid-Southʼs Best Alternative Newspaper
A Real Times Newspaper
• Bernal E. Smith II President / Publisher • Dr. Karanja A. Ajanaku Executive Editor
SPECIAL REPORT
‘State of Black America’ 2013
NUL notes slip on road to parity NNPA
by Freddie Allen Blacks have fallen behind in their efforts to reach parity with whites in several key areas since 2010, according to the National Urban League’s new “State of Black America” report. Each year, the report computes an Equality Index for economics, health, education, social justice and civic engagement. Each category was assigned its own weight: economics receives 30 points, health and education each receive 25 points and social justice and civic engagement each receive 10 points. When compared to whites, blacks scored 71.7 percent on the equality index in 2013 down from the 72.1 percent mark in 2010. Compared to 2010 figures, blacks lost ground in economics (56.3 percent in 2013 vs. 57.9 percent in 2010) social justice (57.1 percent compared to 57.8 percent in 2010) and civic engagement (99.9 vs. 102.2 percent in 2010). Blacks also trailed Hispanics who scored 75.6 percent on the Equality Index. Hispanics scored higher than blacks in health (101.2 percent) and economics (60.8 percent and social justice (61.9 percent). Blacks made strides in education (79.6 percent vs. 78.3 percent in 2010) and health (76.9 percent vs. 76.7 percent in 2010). “Educational attainment is where we see the biggest gains over the past half-century, thanks to affirmative action and early investments in educational programs such as Head Start,” wrote Marc Morial, president and CEO of the National Urban League. Since 1963, blacks have narrowed the black-white high school completion gap by 57 percent. Today, there more than three times as many blacks attending college than there were 50 years ago and five times as many college graduates. Despite these remarkable gains in education, economic disparities linger. “While education dramatically improves one’s chances of being employed – black college graduates are 4.5 times less likely to be unemployed compared to black high school dropouts – very little of the average difference between black and white unemployment rates can be explained by differences in education,” wrote Valerie Rawlston Wilson, chief economist for the National Urban League Policy Institute. In fact, Wilson said, after taking differences in education into account along with differences in age (or experience), occupation, industry and region of the country explains just onefifth of the average difference between black and white unemployment rates. In an interview, Wilson said that even though black college graduates have a much lower unemployment rate than those who didn’t finish high school, the unemployment rate for black college graduates is still twice the jobless rate for white college graduates. “Despite the progress that we’ve made in terms of educational attainment and educational achievement we haven’t seen that level of progress matched on the economic front in terms of employment opportunities and income growth,” said Wilson. The National Urban League’s 2013 State of Black America report included a collection of essays written by black luminaries that highlighted the key areas addressed by the National Urban League’s Equality Index. “Today, Americans are not being attacked by vicious canines or thrown up against brick walls with fire hoses,” wrote Marcia Fudge (DOhio), chair of the Congressional Black Caucus. “Many of the injustices of today have a much more delicate face and are talked about under
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
new, more subtle names.” Fudge continued: “One new name is ‘debt and deficit reduction’ at the expense of seniors’ health and well being, and our children’s education. Another is the fight against full implementation of the Affordable Healthcare Act that guarantees access to healthcare for all Americans.” Michael K. Fauntroy, an associate professor of public policy at George Mason University in Virginia and former analyst at the Congressional Research Service, wrote that even though the black voter turnout rate exceeded whites in 2012, there is still plenty room for improvement. “According to U.S. Census Bureau data, there are roughly 26.6 million voting-age eligible African Americans as of 2008; of that number 16.68 million (or 62.7 percent) cast ballots in 2012,” wrote Fauntroy. Fauntroy also asserted that black political clout can be expanded. “With the white share of the electorate in continued decline, the Latino vote not yet solidified, and the Asian-American vote still in growthmode, African Americans are presented with an opportunity to apply political power, not just influence, in
“Educational attainment is where we see the biggest gains over the past half-century, thanks to affirmative action and early investments in educational programs such as Head Start.” Marc Morial
the years ahead by picking who wins elections,” wrote Fauntroy. According to Frederick S. Humphries Jr., vice president of U.S. Government Affairs for the Microsoft Corporation in Washington, D.C., blacks can also see gains in economic power by addressing the skills gap in the technology industry. “Consider this: In the United States last year there were 1,603 new Ph.D.s in computer science – far too few,” wrote Humphries. “Compounding this dearth is the fact that only 349 of those degrees went to women, 47 went to African Americans. Nearly 60 percent of these degree holders were foreign nationals.” Humphries recommended a twopronged approach to closing the skills gap that includes strengthening Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) programs across the country as well as supporting immigration reform policies that will spur job growth in the United States. Attorney General Eric Holder said the Justice Department found that some of the nation’s largest mortgage lenders engaged in wholesale discrimination against blacks and Hispanic borrowers during the housing crisis that contributed to the Great Recession. “We discovered lenders that charged African American and Hispanic borrowers as much as tens of thousands of dollars more for their mortgages than they charged similarly-qualified white borrowers,” Holder wrote. “Others steered these borrowers into expensive and risky subprime loans. The Department has vigorously rooted out these fair lending violations, securing record relief – more than $660 million over the past four years – for victims and their communities, and sending a clear message to all lenders that all borrowers must be treated fairly.” Wilson said that the 2013 State of Black American report comes at time to reflect on the progress that has been made while acknowledging there still is a lot of work to be done, particularly in the area of economic equality. She said, “For me and for a lot of us involved in this movement and in the civil rights community, we understand the role that race continues to play, we don’t live in post-racial society.” 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.
Commuters saw this temporary sign on the morning of Tuesday, April 16, 2013 as they passed a federal courthouse near the U.S. Capitol. (Photo: Paul Courson/CNN)
It can happen anywhere!
September 11, 2001, was the day everything changed, then April 15, 2013, serves as another reminder of that change, of our frailties and of a new reality in which “it can’t happen here” has been replaced by “it can happen anywhere.” When initial reports came out of Boston about two explosions occurring near the finish line of the 116th marathon – a marathon that began with 26 seconds of silence in honor of the 26 victims of the Newtown massacre – we held our collective breaths and hoped it was a freak infrastructure accident. Or compromised electrical wiring. Or a gas leak. Anything other than ... President Barack Obama did not say the word “terrorism” in his brief address, perhaps waiting until more facts are learned. We don’t know how many are responsible, we don’t know motive, if any, and we don’t know whether it’s domestic or foreign. But we do know the FBI said the explosions were well-planned. We know the Boston Marathon is seen around the world. And we know three people are dead, including an 8-year-old boy, more than 100 are injured, and countless lives have been scarred. So if September 11, 2001, was the day our innocence was taken, then April 15, 2013, is the reminder that it is never coming back. And we do not need the president to say the word to feel the word. It is felt each time we have to take off our shoes at the airport, have an TSA officer pat us down, throw away a tube of toothpaste because it’s over the allotted 3.4 ounces. The FAA temporarily restricted flights over the bombing site while securi-
ty was increased in cities as far away as Miami and Los Angeles. We do not need the president to say the word to feel it. I was in central London earlier this month LZ and was having Granderson a difficult time finding a garbage can whenever I had something to discard. Finally, I asked some of the residents why it was so hard to find one and was reminded that the Irish Republican Army hid bombs in garbage cans during the 1990s and as a result they are still seen as a security threat. This is what happens when evil like the kind experienced in Boston takes away our innocence. It forces us to empty our pockets, have our bags inspected and remove trash cans from the streets of a major international city. We don’t need the president to say the word to be reminded constantly that if we see something, we need to say something, blurring the lines between a healthy awareness of our surroundings and irrational paranoia. But then again, is our paranoia that irrational if something as celebratory as the Boston Marathon is no longer a safe place to be? If September 11, 2001, made you cry, then April 15, 2013, should make you angry. All of the laws, the creation of Homeland Security, the trillions spent, the political grandstanding and debates and yet the best we can do is make the country safer. We
will never, ever be safe again. Not in the way many of us remember being safe growing up. When I’m in a large crowded space, I check for emergency exits ... and I hate it. But like love and good, evil is an omnipresent force imposing itself on the rest of society like an untreatable cancer. So while Obama telling the American people those responsible will “feel the full weight of justice,” we are haunted by the fact that “justice” won’t bring the victims back. “Justice” won’t undo the fear embedded in the people who were closest to the blast. “Justice” won’t take us back to September 10, 2001 ... back before the word “terrorism” was on the tip of every American’s tongue. And make no mistake, while the president did not use that word in his news conference, that is the word federal authorities are using. Doesn’t matter if the culprits of this heinous act came from afar or home. The origin of the person or persons responsible won’t bring us the peace that we took for granted not so long ago. That peace is gone, forever. Our children will hear stories about this peace and our children’s children will treat it as a fairy tale. If April 15, 2013, was the day the Boston Marathon became a target for terrorism, then September 11, 2001, was the day we all were warned that it would be. Since then nothing has been the same. Nothing will be the same.
(LZ Granderson, who writes a weekly column for CNN.com, is a senior writer and columnist for ESPN the Magazine and ESPN.com. Follow him on Twitter: @locs_n_laughs.)
Jay-Z, Beyoncé embarrass White House – again The Root
by Keli Goff Having previously shared my thoughts on the first couple’s close association with hip-hop’s first couple, Jay-Z and Beyoncé, I vowed not to address the issue again, since I’m not a fan of treading over the same territory in my writing. But I relented at the behest of a TV producer. While I didn’t have a lot to say about Jay-Z and Beyoncé’s vacation itinerary, I do have an opinion about the rap legend’s newly released rap on the matter. On Thursday (Aug. 11), the gossip site TMZ posted a clip from JayZ’s new song, “Open Letter,” in which the rapper rails against the lies of politicians and waxes poetically about Havana, where he and his missus vacationed recently, despite a U.S. travel embargo against the country. (Full disclosure: I’ve also been to Cuba, on a student visa when I was in college, as part of a conference.) Then the world’s greatest rapper drops the boom, saying the following: “Obama said, ‘Chill, you gonna get me impeached ... We don’t need this s—t anyway, chill with me on the beach.’” Of course every armchair psychologist is having a field day speculating about what the lyric really means. Is he insinuating that the president did something questionable to help greenlight Jay-Z (aka Shawn Corey Carter) and Beyoncé’s controversial trip to Cuba, which has drawn the ire of conservatives? Or is he referring to something else? Here’s the definitive answer: It doesn’t matter.
The damage has already been done. While the president should be using his time to defend his newly released budget, yet again his administration is being distracted from the real work it should be doing, by a controversy of his own making – well, his and his wife’s. When Americans look at Jay-Z and Beyoncé, they see lot of things – beauty, wealth, power. One thing they don’t see, and never will, is presidential. Jay-Z’s crass reaction to this Cuba controversy – which likely would have died down had he not unveiled this tacky response – is a perfect example of why. Before anyone accuses me of being Little Ms. Killjoy, let me be clear. Jay-Z had a right to release the song. He and his wife even may legally have had the right to go to Cuba, but because of their close association with the first couple, both of them should have been smart enough to know that their choices now reflect on the first couple, and they should behave accordingly – that is, if they actually care about the first couple’s image. Maybe they don’t. But at the end of the day, the responsibility for this PR mess belongs to the first couple. All of us are judged in some capacity by the company we keep, and the first couple has chosen to keep close company with a woman whose definition of class can be summarized with the song lyrics “Bow down, bitches,” and a man who is a former drug dealer who thinks that joking about the president’s impeachment is the epitome of good taste. The president and first lady are adults and have the right to be friends
SUBSCRIPTIONS: Mail subscriptions to the Tri-State Defender are available upon request. One Year, $30.00; Two Years, $55.00. Domestic subscriptions must be addressed to: Subscriptions, Tri-State Defender, 203 Beale Street, Suite 200, Memphis, TN. 38103. Delivery may take one week. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Tri-State Defender, 203 Beale Street, Suite 200, Memphis, TN. 38103. TELEPHONE: Editorial and Administration: (901) 523-1818. Fax: (901) 578-5037.
Jay-Z and Beyoncé (Photo: Getty Images)
with whomever they want. But they also should be judged accordingly. It’s not fair that the president and first lady have to worry about being judged for such silly things. It’s also not fair that fried chicken and watermelon are considered AfricanAmerican food stereotypes. After all, who doesn’t love watermelon? But they are stereotypes, and serving them at Obama’s first state dinner would have been an embarrassing choice for the Obamas and all African Americans. Their closeness with the Carters is similar. If the Obamas cannot handle such scrutiny, then Barack Obama should not have run for office. For those wondering if this is something personal against the Carters, let me say this. I was a huge Whitney Houston fan and considered her an incredible beauty and talent. But I also would have considered it poor judgment had the president and first lady taken her into their inner circle once she became known more for her legal woes than her talent. In simple terms, it would not have been a good look for the first couple. Neither is their close association with the Carters. After Jay-Z’s recent rap, maybe now they know that.
(Keli Goff is The Root’s political correspondent. Follow her on Twitter.)
E-MAIL: Editorial e-mail (press releases, news, letters to editor, etc.): editorial@tri-statedefender.com; Display advertising e-mail (ads, advertising price requests, etc.): advertising@tri-statedefender.com; Classified advertising e-mail (ads, advertising price requests, etc.): classifieds@tri-statedefender.com; Subscription/Circulation e-mail (subscriptions, subscription price requests, etc.): subscriptions@tristatedefender.com. The Tri-State Defender (USPS 780-220) is published weekly by Tri-State Defender Publishing Co., 203 Beale Street, Suite 200, Memphis, TN 38103. Second Class postage paid at Memphis, TN.
BUSINESS
Tri-State Defender
Page 5
April 18 - 24, 2013
ON OUR WAY TO WEALTHY
Art & business intersect in Lonnie Robinson that level someday.
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Carlee McCullough Lonnie Robinson designs graphics for business cards, logos, stationary and posters. Although I initially viewed him as a graphic designer, I quickly learned that the graphics were only a byproduct of his full artistry.
Carlee McCullough: Tell us little bit about you. Lonnie Robinson: I’m an artist. I say that first foremost because I have been creating art for most of my life. I’ve worked professionally over the years as an art director, graphic designer and an illustrator. But I’ve always made time to create art that stems solely from my internal thoughts and inspirations. I grew up in Memphis and attended Overton High School under the optional school program because it was geared more towards the creative and performing arts. During my studies there I won a number of local and regional art awards, which eventually led to my receiving several
Carlee McCullough
Lonnie Robinson
scholarships to many of the top art schools in the country. I chose to attend the School of the Art Institute of Chicago on the first ever John H. and Eunice Johnson Scholarship. There I majored in painting with a minor in graphic design.
CM: When did you realize you wanted to be an artist? LR: The first time I visited the Brooks Museum of Art with my Mom. I may have been 7 or 8 years old. Seeing the paintings and sculpture made me feel a great sense of pride in that I believed even then that I would do work on
CM: What kind of art do you create? LR: Paintings mostly, however, I work in a variety of mediums and styles. Categorically, I would say my work leans more towards abstract expressionism. While at the Art Institute I trained more as a classical realist but I quickly ventured into more nonfigurative imagery.
CM: Who or what inspires you? LR: The exchange that takes place between the viewer and art has always inspired me. No one sees a work of art quite the same as the next. There are times when I can see in the viewers’ eyes an almost magical energetic exchange. That truly inspires me to remain an artist and to try to create work that elevates the spirit. CM: What project are you most proud of and why? LR: Well, locally I would say the stained glass windows at Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church. I was commissioned to design them after
the designs the manufacturer submitted were turned down. I’m most proud of the work because I got the chance to learn another medium. The scale of the work and the four designs are duplicated on both sides of the sanctuary, each approximately 7 feet wide by 30 feet tall. I had a great deal of creative autonomy and was able to incorporate some non-traditional imagery including Adinkra African symbols and Kente cloth patterns that I had never seen done in stained glass. I am most proud of them because they require the light of the sun to truly enjoy them.
CM: Do you have a favorite artist? LR: Early on I would say both Picasso and Henri Matisse were high on my list and still are. However, today I really enjoy the works of Jean Michel Basquiat and an artist out of Chicago named Theaster Gates. CM: How does your artistry influence your creativity with business or organization logos? LR: It helps me to stay fresh which allows the substance to the project to inspire the creative.
CM: How important is graphics and logos for a business? LR: Very, we are a brand-driven society. Most of what we think of a business, organization or institution is first dictated by what we see. Graphic icons, symbols and logos are so integral in our day today it’s hard to remember when it wasn’t the case. CM: What kind of services do you offer businesses? LR: I design corporate identities, logos, brochures, annual reports, books, promotional graphics and illustration.
CM: Any closing remarks? LR: Like most careers, I believe your success goes as far as your love for the craft. I found a career very early and I’m very thankful and blessed because of it. (Lonnie Robinson can be reached at lr1creative@bellsouth.net.) (Contact Carlee McCullough, Esq., at 5308 Cottonwood Road, Suite 1A, Memphis, TN 38118, or email her at jstce4all@aol.com.)
At the Kustom Kosher display, Marleisha Malone (left), Zaadia Harris and Zayrion Harris are ready for business.
Expo features young – but ready – entrepreneurs Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Brittany Jackson
Kustom Kosher, Treasured Collections, Thirtyone22 Boutique, Corn Cases and Elusive Expressions! are businesses that share a common trait. Each has an owner in the 16-to-25 age range. Gregory Taylor, owner of iStylez, brought the young entrepreneurs – and several more like them – together for an Outdoor Business Expo at Audubon Park last Friday (April 12). A 20-year-old student at the University of Memphis, Taylor too shares the young-entrepreneur trait. His company specializes in Apple product repairs, including iPhones, iPads and iPods. He describes the idea of creating iStylez as “a gift from God that I came across at 3 a.m. while watching videos on YouTube.” With the idea firmly planted, Taylor began his research, including identifying the supplies and tools needed to get started. He borrowed
$300 from his mom, promising not to ask for more, a promise he has kept. Starting out as a home-based business, iStylez moved into an office at the Ridgeway Business Center about 8 months ago. The move put Taylor in position to interact with seasoned business professionals willing to help him grow his business. The idea of organizing the Outdoor Business Expo came to Taylor as he was driving. He wanted to create something that could be fun and laid back while giving young entrepreneurs like himself the opportunity to get some exposure for their businesses. If all goes according to the plan, it will become an annual event. Kustom Kosher’s owners – Zaadia Harris, 17, Zayrion Harris, 16, and Marleisha Malone, 21 – got their start about a year ago after observing a need for more customized-clothing options. Their Expo display gave a sense of what they have to offer, including a range of T-shirts, tank tops, hoodies and jackets, with consumers able to choose their colors. Over the
Gregory Taylor networks with Corn Cases owner Corintha Jones (right) and a friend at the Outdoor Business Expo in Audubon Park. (Photos: Shirley Jackson)
next three years, the goal is to make Kustom Kosher a household name. Not far from the Kustom Kosher’s display, Corintha Jones, a 23-yearold University of Memphis student, was pitching Corn Cases, her personalized phone accessory company. For Jones, making phone cases started out as a hobby last summer and blossomed into a business with the motto “Any Case, Any Design, Any Day.” The Expo was her first show, and it landed her several new clients. Lena Evans, 21, has been making clothes since high school. She is majoring in fashion and home design at the U of M. She started her business, Thirtyone22 Boutique, in July 2012. She gets vintage jeans and jackets and redesigns them into something more modern and fashionable and unique. She also offers a range of handmade and printed graphic shirts. Mariah Conley loves meeting people, an affinity that serves her well as
The Outdoor Business Expo included images from Mariah Conleyʼs photography business, Elusive Expressions.
owner of Elusive Expressions, a photography business. A U of M student, Conley once had a cake business pri-
or to starting Elusive Expressions last January. With no regrets about the transition, she is positioning herself to expand her photography business, including doing more weddings and parties. As for Taylor, he contemplates expanding iStylez to a college environment in New Orleans or Knoxville, where he can tap into the diversity of markets. He also wants to make the Expo an annual event. Asked about advice he would give others trying to start their own business, Taylor said, “It’s all about dedication, commitment and understanding. It can’t be bought; the success of your business is based on the drive within yourself because when you take on the responsibility of a business, it becomes your life. “When you dedicate yourself 100 percent to your business you are able to see flaws and what you need to improve. Once you discover that, then why wouldn’t you succeed?”
RELIGION
Page 6
Tri-State Defender
April 18 - 24, 2013
Hail (Shirley) Caesar!
Count Daryl Coley among the many who have been moved by Shirley Caesarʼs gospel music for decades.
Gospel great and pastor Shirley Caesar (center), supported by her husband, Bishop Harold I. Williams, and a friend, enjoy a special moment at the Memphis salute to her. (Photos: George Tillman Jr.) The New Tri-State Defender staff
Iconic Gospel artist Shirley Caesar, who has traveled the world spreading the Gospel, settled in Memphis for a short while last week – long enough to receive accolades from a host of fans, friends and supporters. Caesar was honored last Friday (April
12) at New Salem Missionary Baptist Church, whose pastor – the Rev. Frank Ray – has known her for years. Ray said the local event took shape after a local promoter came up with the idea of saluting the gospel legend. Soon after, several singing artists stepped up to join in. “I used to sing in a gospel group called the Gospel Wonders,” said Ray. “When
she would come to Memphis and other places we would sing in front of her. I’ve known her close to a good 35 years.” Ray described Caesar, who pastors a thriving church in Raleigh-Durham, N.Car., as “a very spiritual lady. She is serious about what she is doing for the kingdom. She’s won so many Grammys (11) and Stellar Awards and she’s still at it now.”
Lemmie Battles pays tribute to Shirley Caesar with a rendition of one of Caesarʼs many gospel hits.
Sunday Celebration of Teachers Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Tarrin McGhee
Hundreds of educators across Memphis and Shelby County were honored on Sunday (April 14) at the 2nd annual Sunday Celebration of Teachers. The event was coordinated by Shepherding the Next Generation – Shelby County, a group of local pastors and ministry leaders who advocate for improvements in public education. More than 75 churches paid tribute to and congratulated teachers of all levels for their hard work. Participating pastors preached on the profession, with each teacher in attendance receiving a gift of appreciation. Lekeshia Alexander, a teacher and behavioral therapist who works with autistic students at various schools in Memphis, attends New Direction Christian Church in Hickory Hill. She said the recognition was a pleasant surprise. “Sometimes, we are seen as
just babysitters and we’re a lot more than that,” said Alexander. “We do it not for the money, but because we truly love the kids, so it was great to hear that someone appreciates us for the sacrifices that we are making everyday.” Pastor Brandon Walker of New Shelby Missionary Baptist Church (Collierville) serves as director of Shepherding the Next GenerationShelby County. He says the 125-plus member organization wants to help parishioners and the broader community gain a better understanding of the significant role that teachers play in promoting individual and collective success “We believe that teaching is a special calling, very similar to one that we’ve all responded to by becoming faith leaders,” said Rev. Walker. “It’s critically important to uplift the adults who maintain a responsibility to help prepare (children) for a bright future.” Since the collaborative began last year, the group has been actively involved in
building community awareness and support for public education reform, championing efforts to increase teacher effectiveness and to expand prekindergarten. Increased participation and support has allowed the faith-based coalition to expand its reach and enhance the Sunday Celebration of Teachers. Pastor Aaron Letcher of Magnolia First Baptist Church in Memphis recently joined the collaborative and said he felt compelled to participate. “How could I not? Day in and day out, teachers have been there for our children, often with little recognition and not enough pay,” he said. “It’s past due time for adults in this community, particularly those in leadership positions, to recognize the value of effective teaching and to pay respect to educators for their tireless efforts.” Improving academic outcomes in Shelby County is an ongoing challenge. According to ACT readiness benchmarks, only 20 percent of students in Shelby County are considered
college ready. Pastors involved with Shepherding the Next Generation believe that to improve achievement rates across the board, cross-sector collaboration is key and that keeping teacher morale high is essential. “In spite of all the talks of layoffs and reorganization, we want teachers to know they need to be anxious for nothing and to trust God through the process,” said Dr. Stacy Spencer of New Direction Christian Church. Spencer’s church operates Power Center Academy, a charter school recognized as one of the leading middle schools in Tennessee. “Education is very important to us. My prayer is that we not only have more effective school systems, but that all teachers may find a place where they can be effective and utilize their gifts,” he said. Nedra Redditt, a New Direction member and owner of Pro Real Estate School for adults, was proud that her church was part of Sunday’s celebration. Her husband is a
Teachers who attended New Shelby Missionary Baptist Church in Collierville last Sunday were the focus of special attention, as were those who attended several other Memphis-area churches that honored local teachers. (Courtesy photo) 30-year educator with Memphis City Schools and she said the event couldn’t have come at a better time. “Right now teachers are under a lot of fear…fearful of the unknown and other things they can’t control (with the schools merger). I’m excited that Pastor Spencer saw a need to encourage and celebrate us and I thought that his message today was very profound.” Shepherding the Next Generation-Shelby County is planning to organize and host additional events throughout the
PRAISE CONNECT
year, including a “Renewing Faith in Public Education” conference on May 7. “We know that skilled teachers, principals and administrators are a crucial component of improving students’ chances for academic and career success, but they cannot bear the brunt of that immense task on their own,” Walker said. “We are committed to doing what we can to ensure that they have the community support and resources needed to effectively fulfill their role.”
-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
—Revelation 1:8
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
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.
— Proverbs 1:7
Dr. & Rev. Mrs. Reginald Porter
ST. ANDREW A.M.E. CHURCH
I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all. —Ecclesiastes 9:11
867 SOUTH PARKWAY EAST Memphis, TN 38106
(901) 948-3441
Early Morning..........7:45 AM Church School..........9:45 AM Morning Worship......11:00 AM Bible Study For Youth and Adults Tuesday - 7:00 PM “Spirit, Soul, and Body!” AM 1070 WDIA Sundays, 10:00-10:30 AM
TV Cable Access Broadcast Tuesdays, 7:30 PM, Channel 17 Website:www.saintandrewamec.org Child Care Center (901) 948-6441 Monday-Friday 6 AM- 5:30 PM Emergency Food Pantry & Clothes Closet Wednesday 6 PM-8 PM
Rev. Kenneth S. Robinson, Pastor Rev. Marilynn S. Robinson, Pastor
“Ministering to Memphis-Spirit, Soul and Body”
Tri-State Defender
NEWS
April 18 - 24, 2013
Africa in April Executive Director David L. Acey Sr. (right) and Associate Director Yvonne B. Acey are teamed with members of the delegation from the Republic of Senegal at Wednesdayʼs International Business & Economic Development Trade Luncheon at the Holiday Inn-University of Memphis. (Photo: George Tillman Jr.)
AFRICA
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
for a delegation that numbers close to 20, including His Excellency Cheikh Niang, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Senegal to the United States. The delegation’s visit has included a visit to the Tennessee Capitol, numerous discussions about tourism, economic development, partnerships, government, politics and people. Along the way, the visiting Senegalese have talked about “the country’s history, uniqueness and how they plan to work with Memphis and Senegal.” Elements of that objective and commitment were on display at Wednesday’s International Business & Economic Development Trade Luncheon at the Holiday Inn-University of Memphis.
The festival – 2013
The Africa in April Cultural Awareness Festival, Inc., which runs through Sunday, unfolds downtown at Robert R. Church Park (Fourth Street at Beale Street). Representatives from Memphis City Schools, Shelby County Schools, parochial schools, area colleges and universities, community organizations and other Institutions will participate. Each of the remaining days of the four-day festival has a different theme, with fun, festivities, and food on tap each day. Here is the 2013 schedule:
Thursday, April 18
International Entrepreneur’s
Day, with vendor setup at Robert R. Church Park, and the Africa In April International Poster Unveiling and Commissioned Artist Reception (Location & time TBA).
Friday, April 19
Children and Senior’s Day – (8:30 a.m.-midnight). International Diversity Parade (Robert R. Church Park & Beale Street) – 10:30 a.m.noon (10 a.m., parade line up). International Vendor’s Market Place – 8 a.m.-midnight.
Saturday, April 20
Health, Wellness & Community Day – (8 a.m.-midnight) International Vendor’s Market Place (8 a.m.-midnight) Seminars, Exhibitions, Demonstrations, & Referrals (9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.) African Fashion Showcase (3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m.)
International Blues Showcase Saturday (7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.)
Sunday, April 21
International Music Day – Jazz, Gospel, Blues, Reggae & World Sounds – (9 a.m.- 6 p.m.) International Vendor’s Market Place (8 a.m.- 6 p.m.) “Gospel In The Park” (10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.)
Cost
Friday, April 19, Children & Senior Citizen’s Day – Free admission. Saturday and Sunday, April 20-21 – $5 per person; Children 12 and under – free
(For more information: 901947-2133 (office); 901-9472414 (fax); www.africainapril.org)
Page 7
ENTERTAINMENT Tri-State Defender, Thursday, April 18 - 24, 2013, Page 8
WHAT’S HAPPENING MYRON?
Kevin Hart, T.I., publicity and the long arm of the law
Doesn’t it seem that the most popular entertainers have been in some type of trouble with the law at some point in their careers? Whether it’s tax trouble, driving while under the influence or just Myron plain ole silly Mays shenanigans, it seems that somebody famous is always getting caught by the long arm of the law. Well, the latest celebrity is funnyman Kevin Hart, who just a few days ago was arrested for drunken driving/DUI and resisting arrest. The California Highway Patrol reportedly observed Hart speeding down the freeway doing about 90 miles an hour in his black Mercedes, weaving across lanes and nearly hitting a gas tanker truck. He was booked and held on a $5,000 bond. After he was released, he posted a statement on Twitter saying that being busted early Sunday in Los Angeles was “a wake-up call” and that he needs “to be smarter.” And that is very true in his case. He has a lot going for himself these days and it doesn’t take much to make it all go away. He also went on to make a couple of jokes about doing “6,000 pushups & 13,000 sit ups” while locked up, even giving a shout out to his cellmate. So I’m just about sure that this will all come out in a comedy routine at some point. But when it all boils down, there is a certain level of responsibility, especially when you have children, which Hart does.
T.I. on T.I.
Rapper T.I. recently sat down with TV host Joy Behar and made some intriguing comments about the effects of his jail stints on his media profile. T.I. told Behar that while he was not glamorizing the fact that he went to prison, he had to acknowledge that he is a whole lot more popular now. When you’re on CNN and MSNBC and all these things, you can’t buy that kind of publicity, he said. If he had to do it all over again, T.I. said he’d give it (the publicity) all back. But would he really?
Local notes
There’s a lot of activity in the city this weekend, with Africa in April unfolding downtown, Designs and Punchlines taking place this Saturday, as well as the What’s Happening Myron Book Club meeting. In its 27th year, Africa in April runs through Sunday in Robert Church Park downtown at Beale Street and Fourth Street. This year’s festival will showcase the Republic of Senegal and feature a mega-platform of culture, fashion, arts & crafts, food and music. So make plans to come out, have fun and enjoy a diverse cultural marketplace. This year, there will be $5 admission fee. For more information, visit www.africainapril.org.
Get ready to laugh and check out some of the latest fashions to hit the scene with Designs and Punchlines, a Celebrity Comedy and Fashion Show taking place this Saturday at 7 p.m. at the Balinese Ballroom located at 330 North Main. Visit designsandpunchlines.com or call 901451-9772 for information. Advance tickets start at $25 and are $30 at the door, with a portion of the proceeds going to Dress for Success Memphis.
Join me on Saturday afternoon at T.J. Mulligans for the What’s Happening Myron Book Club meeting. It’s the 1-Year Anniversary Edition! We’ll be hanging out from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m., so stop by, meet a few people, discuss the book, have a drink and a great time. T.J. Mulligans is located at 362 North Main St. The first 25 ladies will receive a free gift courtesy of our sponsors. Admission is free.
“Memphis the Musical” opens next week at the Orpheum. I’ll have details and a little background information on the production. Until then, that’s what’s happening!
Why do black women still support Tyrese? The Root
by Demetria L. Lucas
have a friend who looks similar to Tyrese. He has the same complexion and chiseled features, and a fondness for wearing plaid shirts, which Ty wore in a pivotal scene as Jody in John Singleton’s “Baby Boy.” Last year, that friend and I were standing backstage at a music festival when a group of “mature” black women approached us to ask my friend for an autograph. He laughed, explained that he was not Tyrese and apologized for the confusion. One woman responded, “We should have known it wasn’t him as soon as you were polite. Tyrese is an a—hole.”
I
I wondered, “So why did you want his autograph, then?” But I didn’t say that, of course, because who in their younger right mind talks slick to a “mature” black woman? I’ve thought about that incident several times, and I can’t find a logical reason that audiences continually flock to entertainers – not just Tyrese – who are repeatedly rude and disrespectful to them, whether in person or via their public persona. Tyrese recently engaged in another one of his infamous foot-in-mouth rants when asked by AllHipHop.com about his responsibility as an entertainer to inspire fans to live healthier lifestyles. It was an odd question, considering that the singer-actor-bestselling author isn’t a weight-loss guru, but Tyrese’s hateful response was even stranger (and inarticulate): “If you are fat and nasty and you don’t like the way you look, do something about it,” he said. “It’s simple. When you take a shower and you put your fat, nasty body in the shower and by the time you get out, the mirrors are all steamed up, so you don’t look at what you did to yourself. That may sound offensive or insensitive, but ultimately, you are big as hell because you have earned that s—t. You worked your ass off to eat everything in sight to get big as hell.” “Fat and nasty?” “Big as hell?” “Did to yourself?” Well, dang. Tell us how you really feel about some of your fans, Ty. It’s as if he’s never been to one of his own concerts or book signings, where the audience is populated mostly with black women (and their dates), and seen that many of them, including the guys, fall into the fluffy-and-fabulous realm. Weight, of course, is an issue that many Americans need to address. More than onethird of U.S. adults are obese, and non-Hispanic blacks, Tyrese’s core audience, have “the highest age-adjusted rates of obesity” in comparison with other groups, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But Tyrese is part of the problem, not the solution. Shaming fat folks as “nasty” and “big as hell” isn’t exactly providing anyone with inspiration – what the interviewer asked about – to head to the nearest gym. I don’t wish to seem as if I’m unfairly harping on Tyrese. Plenty of entertainers make rude or offensive remarks. And if this were Tyrese’s first offense, he’d be a footnote to make a larger point about celebrities like Terrence Howard or Taye Diggs who don’t know when to give a politically correct or PR-trained answer or just shut up. But this is at least Tyrese’s third. Prior to this most recent gaffe, he was doing his damnedest to explain (for dummies) why his video for “I Gotta Chick” was mostly devoid of black women. “I don’t do favors,” he tweeted in response to the backlash from his fans. “Doesn’t matter the race!! I’m black as (s—t)!! Love my sisters!! You do auditions and go for the BEST! Not race!! Love u!” I didn’t make too much fuss over that one because the last thing the world needs is more objectified black women wiggling around half naked in a video. But still, I find it unbelievable that there was a call for models to be featured in a Tyrese video and only homely black women showed up for the audition.
Tyrese Gibson (Larry Busacca/Getty Images)
In the unlikely and far-fetched chance that this actually happened, then yes, he should have done another audition to “do a favor” for the women who look like the majority of the ones showing up at his venues – who watch his shows and films and put his book on the New York Times best-seller list. Oh, but he wasn’t done yet. Months later, when the flak for that gaffe had finally died down, he was back at it – this time taking shots “in particular” at “independent” black women (and gay men) in an interview for Necole Bitchie. “Then some women are so on this independent kick, they end up alone,” Tyrese said. “You’re going to ‘independent’ your way into loneliness. You go off and buy all the little poodles you want.” Independence is a problem ... except when women use their disposable income to buy his books, or purchase tickets to his
concerts and summer blockbusters, right? Maybe his independent fans can curl up with their pups as they watch reruns of “Baby Boy” on BET. Never have I seen an artist who is so ungrateful or disrespectful to his fan base but who feels all too comfortable pitching them products like his latest project, a self-directed and narrated documentary, “A Black Rose That Grew Through Concrete.” It’s a chronicle of his life, from his humble beginnings to becoming a singerauthor-actor. More Tyrese? Maybe for you, but I’m good. I’ve already heard enough. (Demetria L. Lucas is a contributing editor at The Root and the author of “A Belle in Brooklyn: The Go-to Girl for Advice on Living Your Best Single Life.” Follow her on Twitter.)
“I don’t do favors” “Doesn’t matter the race!! I’m black as (s—t)!! Love my sisters!! You do auditions and go for the BEST! Not race!! Love u!” Tyrese Gibson on twitter
ENTERTAINMENT
Tri-State Defender
Page 9
April 18 - 24, 2013
April 18-24, 2013
OPENING THIS WEEK
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 19, 2013
BIG BUDGET FILMS
“Oblivion” (PG-13 for violence, nudity, sexuality and brief profanity) Post-apocalyptic sci-fi thriller about an ex-Marine (Tom Cruise) with the fate of humanity in his hands in the wake of a war with extraterrestrials which devastated the planet. Cast includes Morgan Freeman, Olga Kurylenko and Melissa Leo.
INDEPENDENT & FOREIGN FILMS
“Ain’t in It for My Health” (Unrated) Reverential rockumentary about Levon Helm, the late drummer, lead singer and founding member of The Band. Featuring appearances by Billy Bob Thornton, Libby Titus and Larry Campbell. “Errors of the Human Body” (Unrated) Psychological thriller, set in Dresden, revolving around a research scientist (Michael Eklund) who becomes the first victim of a newly-created lethal virus as the result of a lab accident. With Karoline Herfurth, Tomas Lemarquis and Rik Mayall.
“Filly Brown” (R for profanity, violence and drug use) Musical drama about a struggling hip-hop artist (Gina Rodriguez) trying to rap her way out of the barrio who finds herself facing a dilemma when a record producer (Pete Herrera) offers to sign her to a contract if she compromises her heartfelt feminist values. Supporting cast includes Lou Diamond Phillips, Edward James Olmos and Jenni Rivera.
A student in a classroom in Sierra Leone in the female empowerment documentary “Girl Rising.” coaching a rag-tag team of Little Leaguers. With James Devoti, Nicole Leigh and Drew Waters.
“In the House” (R for profanity and sexuality) Screen adaptation of “The Boy in the Last Row,” Juan Mayorga’s play about a high school student (Ernst Umhauer) whose essays about a classmate’s (Batien Ughetto) family come to impress his jaded literature teacher (Fabrice Luchini). With Kristin Scott Thomas, Emmanuelle Seigner and Yolande Moreau. (In French with subtitles)
“Girl Rising” (PG-13 for mature themes and disturbing images) Female empowerment documentary about nine women from different countries who found fulfillment after overcoming everything from child slavery to arranged marriages.
“The Lords of Salem” (R for profanity, drug use, disturbing violence, frontal nudity, and graphic sexuality) Rob Zombie wrote and directed this horror flick starring his wife (Sheri Moon Zombie) as a radio DJ who unwittingly unleashes demonic forces by playing vinyl records from a mysterious box sent to the station. Featuring cult film favorites Dee Wallace (The Howling), Patricia Quinn (The Rocky Horror Picture Show) and Ken Foree (Dawn of the Dead).
“Herman’s House” (Unrated) Unlikelybuddy documentary chronicling the long-distance friendship forged via phone calls and correspondence between a female, Stanford University grad and a Black Panther with a life sentence kept in solitary confinement for over 40 years.
“Home Run” (PG-13 for mature themes) Prodigal Son saga about a disgraced pro baseball player (Scott Elrod) with an alcohol abuse problem who returns to his hometown to rehab. There, he cleans up his act with the help of his estranged child-
hood sweetheart (Dorian Brown) and rekindles his love for the game while
HOROSCOPES
“OCONOMOWOC” (Unrated) Dysfunctional family comedy about a confused man (Brendan Marshall-Rashid) who moves back home with his alcoholic mom (Deborah Clifton) to go into the T-shirt business. With Anndy Gillies, Andrew Rozanski and Cindy Pinzon.
ARIES Go into yourself this week and find those impulses that make you a good steady builder of relationships and long-range attitudes. You are a master at staying on the scene like a steady machine. Smile because this talent will put you ahead of the pack this week. TAURUS Patience! Patience! Make a game of patience, and it will not seem as boring. Smile as you apply yourself to routines that would otherwise drive you up a wall. Stay alert to the possibility of disruptions to habitual patterns. Make a game of dealing with obtrusions. GEMINI Things that have others upset this week will not bother you quite as much. Show that you can be depended upon when things get a little heavy for others. Handling heaviness is not all that tough for you. Turn this asset into a dividend producer. CANCER This is a week when you can be a singular beacon. Shine for those around you. Go inside yourself and find those rays of sunshine that others need. LEO Loving care is what the world is in need of this week and you get a lot of inward joy out of giving it. Your ability to move back emotionally from problems and thereby administer to them will give you an advantage. Use it wisely. VIRGO Cheer them up. They don’t see the big picture. You can. Let them know about the light at the end of the tunnel. It is clearly in focus for you. Enjoy it and make your joy contagious. Give love this week but wait for a while to search for its return. LIBRA Endurance and regeneration are keys for you this week. You’ll be needing both those qualities to get you past the negative thinking that is flooding the spiritual environment. Seek resources from the highest levels of your nature and spread them to those you love. SCORPIO Eternal optimist, eternity is now. Get in touch with your hopefulness and be a beacon to others. Try not to be taken in by promises made by others or promises you’ve made to yourself. Avoid contemplating lofty subjects and seeking long ranged solutions. SAGITTARIUS Work. You like work. You have faith in the results it produces. Luck is important, but getting the job in front of you done to the best of your ability will put you ahead of the game this week. Work at love, or rather work for those you love. CAPRICORN Don’t ask yourself when the answer will come. It is on its way, but it will not get here this week. Yield not to frustrations. Don’t fly off the handle and create problems for yourself later on. Chill. AQUARIUS This week is excellent for being still and letting the wealth inside yourself produce emotional dividends. Get in touch with the forces that work behind the scenes that produce the bright facades that everyone enjoys. PISCES Did external circumstance allow you to get into your true soul vibration last week? Well, last week was good for getting into a positive way of looking at what is happening. This week you’ll be called upon to express that positive way to the entire world around you. Source: NNPA
SPORTS Tri-State Defender, Thursday, April 18 - 24, 2013, Page 10
On Fan Appreciation Night, Grizz fans showed their appreciation by giving the players a standing ovation at the end of the final regular-season game.
After all that Jazz, Grizz ready for playoffs Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Kelley Evans
Marc Gasol and the Grizzlies did not mail in the last game of the regular season, choosing to play hard on offense and defense.
The goal for the Memphis Grizzlies going into their final game of the regular season Wednesday night against the Utah Jazz was the same as it was for their first – to secure the win. The hope after the game was to watch the Los Angeles Clippers lose to the Sacramento Kings. A loss would allow Memphis to snatch home-court advantage in Round 1 of the NBA Western Conference Playoffs. So much for hope. Ending the regular season with a bang, setting a franchise record with 56 wins and holding the fifth seed, the Grizzlies defeated the Jazz 86-70 in front of 16,777 fans at the FedExForum. The Grizz victory killed the Jazz’s playoff hopes and secured the eighth spot in Playoffs for the Los Angeles Lakers. The Clippers pulled out a 112-108 win over the Kings, summoning the Grizzlies to the Staples Center for Game One on Saturday in L.A. Memphis showed no mercy on the Jazz. Zach Randolph finished with 25 points and 19 rebounds. Mike Conley added 14 points and Darrell Arthur pitched in 11. Al Jefferson led the Jazz with 22 points and 16 rebounds. The Jazz were out-rebounded 57-47 and were held to 32 percent shooting. For Memphis, the next goal is simple: Beat the Clippers to advance to the second round. Nevermind that just last Saturday the Clippers waltzed into FedExForum and left with another win, 91-87, taking the season series three games to one. And yes, the Clippers eliminated the Grizzlies last year, coming away with a seven-game series win in the first round of the playoffs. Despite all of that, the grit-and-grind Grizz are ready to flip the script.
Zach Randolph had a big night, scoring 25 points and 19 rebounds. (Photos: Warren Roseborough)
Intense as always, Grizz guard Jerryd Bayliss scrambles for possession.
Boston bomb blasts derail Kenyan marathon celebration by Harrison Maina and Moses Mathenge Ajabu Africa
BOSTON – The increasingly popular Boston marathon celebrations by the Kenyan community in the Boston region were abruptly thrown into disarray Monday. Sudden heavy blasts reverberated at the finish line moments after Kenya’s Rita Jeptoo won the first position in the women’s race. Micah Kogo of Kenya clocked in second in the men’s race after Ethiopia’s Lelisa Desisa turned tables on the Kenyan elite male champions by crossing the finish line first. The scary blasts that resulted in 3 fatalities and over 140 injuries disrupted transportation plans for at least 14 Kenyans and their children who got stuck in Boston after most of the subway train system was shut down. Two Ajabu Media reporters spotted a Kenyan dad and son stranded near Boston commons as they walked towards Hay Market. The father’s cellphone had run out of charge and the reporters’ cellphones were used to locate a family member who picked up the duo after an hour of anxious waiting. The reporters could not use the subway train system because it had been closed as a security precaution. The now re-united family
generously offered the reporters a ride out of town. However, soon afterwards the car stopped at a nearby street corner when it encountered 10 stranded Kenyans with frightened children in tow. The Ajabu reporters gave up their seats for the stranded Kenyans and bravely watched the tightly packed SUV zoom the families to safety in the suburbs. Frantic telephone calls were then made to a Kenyan who resides in downtown Boston to come and rescue the weary reporters. No Kenyan elite runner was hurt. The bomb blasts took place more than one hour after the top runners had crossed the finish line. However, local Kenyan diaspora runner, Titus Mutinda of Lowell, Massachusetts, narrowly escaped the blast as he crossed the line barely 20 minutes before the explosions. As news of the bomb blasts spread in the mainstream and social media, many Kenyans from out of state and the motherland called their kin to enquire about their safety. Kenyans are known to swarm the finish line in big numbers to cheer their athletes and take pictures. Kenya fans in New England expected this year’s Boston Marathon to be another repeat of last year’s triple-double (in both male and female categories). They woke up early
with great enthusiasm and expectant energy and headed to Copley Square in downtown Boston to join a sea of humanity that snakes its way all along the route and ends up at the finish right in front of the giant screen that televises the event live. This strategic position at the finish line is treasured by both Kenyans and their Ethiopian counterparts. About an hour before the blasts, Kenyan fans lined up along the route had sustained a long duration of loud cheering and as the marathoners raced from Hopkinton town, past Newton’s Heartbreak Hill, and down Boylston street into Boston’s finish line. The first expected victorious moment came when Rita Jeptoo crossed the finish line at Copley Square to win the women’s 2013 title. Moments later Micah Kogo scooped the second position in the men’s category. Kenyan
and Ethiopian fans cheered loudly as each of their national anthems played out on loudspeakers as the champions were presented with their hard earned crowns. Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick bestowed the honors on the winners. As usual, when all the top Kenyan runners had crossed the finish line within 15 minutes of the winner’s time, the Kenyan fans retreated to their favorite restaurant VLora just a couple of blocks from the finish line. This is the place they go for lunch and refreshments as they wait for the official awards ceremony that usually takes place at 5 p.m. at the Fairmont Copley Hotel, a short distance walk from Vlora. Many Ethiopian fans had also long cleared the finish line area. It was while the fans were enjoying their meal at VLora that the television aired the explosion and the ensuing chaos
that erupted at the finish line. Before the sumptuous meals had settled, police officers burst into the underground restaurant and ordered all to vacate with immediate effect. As the Kenyans took to their heels, Ajabu Africa reporters caught the journalist’s bug and jumped onto the street scene to cover the developments. In a scary but organized operation, sirens rang in the air as both security and paramedics arrived in hordes. At this juncture everyone was ordered to clear the finish line and move away as far as possible. However, before all could clear the site, there came another deafening blast. A security officer shouted loudly to onlookers and media personalities taking pictures, “It’s for real, you got to run for your lives. Leave this scene now!” The officer did not need to stress any word as everyone took to their heels away from the scene. The entire downtown Boston soon became police town, with countless regular and undercover police cars hunting for the perpetrators of the vile act. They raced back and forth with their sirens and emergency lights on. Dozens of ambulances crisscrossed many Boston streets as they rushed the injured to different hospitals within the city. It was during this commotion that Ajabu Africa re-
porters spotted the Kenyan father and son stranded at Boston Commons. “This is unbelievable. We have been stuck here since 3 p.m. when I called my sister to come pick us up. Then my cell phone lost charge as soon as I told her I am waiting here. She does not know specifically where we are positioned,” said Patrick Kariuki of Randolph as he waited patiently with his 6-year-old son. “Let us use your cell phone to call my sister again right away,” he requested Ajabu Africa reporters. According to Kariuki’s sister, Judith Mwangi, it took her three hours to drive from Randolph to Boston, and almost two more hours to drop off each of the families at their homes in Quincy and Brockton. “It was so hectic. Many of the roads in Boston were closed. The GPS was directing me all over as I figured out how to get around. There was police everywhere, but I thank God I was able to finally reconnect with my family and other stranded friends,” she said. (AjabuAfrica.com is a news website based in Boston serving the African diaspora, an ethnic media partner of the University of Massachusetts Boston’s Center on Media and Society; and also of New America Media.)
HEALTH
Tri-State Defender
CHEF TIMOTHY
Stress relief? Eat healthy and smile more by Chef Timothy Moore Ph.D, N.M.D, C.N. Special to The New Tri-State Defender
Have you ever been jarred awake by a migraine that keeps pounding in your head like you’ve been scrapping with the young Mike Tyson? If this has happened to you, your arms might’ve felt extremely sore and your body might’ve felt like it was badly bruised by the pounding. So what happened overnight? How can a person go to sleep comfortably and wake up miserable? What causes the body to react to different demands and pressure situations? That bruising feeling could be stress, which is “the body’s physical, mental or chemical reaction when we get excited or confused or when we otherwise feel unsafe or threatened.” In the mid-20th century, Dr. Hans Selye, an endocrinologist, pioneered stress research and is attributed with coining the term stress. He concluded that the majority of diseases known to mankind are rooted in the amount of stress in one’s life. Our stress levels today are pretty high. It’s generally because of emotional overload, environmental toxins, and the types of food we eat. As a consequence, we’re left confused and unable to relay our feelings to others to release the pressures that can bog down the mind, body and spirit. Stress and the role it plays in our lives can be looked at from either a negative or positive perspective. For
those who resist change, you most likely will experience negative stress, which means it controls you. If you are able to rise to the challenge, you no doubt are experiencing positive stress, which means stress doesn’t control Dr. Timothy you. The point I’m Moore making here is don’t let stressful situations control your life. Our lives are filled with obstacles that we aren’t able to control sometimes. But we should at least try to control our emotions when a bad situation hits us head-on. Uncontrolled stress causes tension, which leads to an increase in our cortisol level. This causes inflammation and a deleterious effect throughout the body. Cortisol is a stress hormone responsible for several stressrelated changes in the body. There are some negative factors related to cortisol. But there are some positive ones that keep us in check too, such as lowering our sensitivity to pain, increasing our immune system in fighting off diseases, and helping to increase memory function. The negative effects of high cortisol levels can cause unwanted inflammation, which is, in a nutshell,
called chronic stress. This can lead to some type of sleep disorder that affects a person’s daily functions at school, place of employment and our personal lives. High levels of stress also can increase the body’s insulin and blood sugar levels. This may happen if we don’t eat the right food. Some of us will eat foods that will spike or raise our sugar level. Have you ever noticed an individual that’s in a rage or hostile for no apparent reason? In most cases, that person is hypoglycemic, which can cause one to act out of character. However, when given a balanced, healthy meal – usually within 15 minutes – the sufferer will return to normal. Diabetics are taught to control their high blood sugar imbalances with proper nutrition. But they are not told that high stress levels can cause imbalances. Stress affects each one of us in different ways. So smile a little more. Walk, run and do things that will make you happy. And don’t forget to eat healthy.
(Dr. Timothy Moore teaches nutrition, heart disease and diabetes reversal through a plant-based lifestyle. He is a professional speaker, international wellness coach and personal plant-based chef. He is the author of “47 Tips To Reverse Your Diabetes.” He can be reached by email at cheftimothy@cheftimothymoore.com, visit him at www.cheftimothymoore.com or follow him at www.twitter.com/ cheftimmoore.)
Dine out and fight AIDS on April 25 Friends For Life will celebrate its 5th annual Dining Out For Life® in partnership with 39 of Memphis’ finest restaurants on April 25. Memphis is among 60 cities participating in this national effort, which raises more than $3 million annually for AIDS service organizations throughout the country and Canada. Food Network stars Ted Allen and Daisy Martinez, Project Runway AllStars winner Mondo Guerra, and actress Pam Grier, are the national spokespeople for the event. “I’m attracted to Dining Out for a few reasons. I like the group, and they do an enormous amount of good,” sad Allen. “But the real reason is because the event is such a winner for everyone. The true heroes in the fight against HIV/AIDS are the activists and researchers, but we can’t all do that.” Allen said with Dining Out For Life “all we have to do is exactly what we do any other night of the week: go to a restaurant when we’re hungry. The price isn’t any higher, and it even gives you an excuse for
POISON
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
in any way with this heinous act. Local law enforcement officials have been in contact with the investigating agency, the FBI, and stand ready to cooperate as needed.”
Suspicious letters
Sadie Holland, a judge in Lee County, Miss., told CNN Wednesday night that she received an envelope with a suspicious substance and a letter similar to the ones sent to the offices of Obama and Wicker. Last Wednesday, the judge received and opened a typewritten letter – postmarked from Memphis, without a return address – that included “suspicious content,” Lee County Sheriff Jim Johnson told reporters. The letter had “great consistencies and similarities” to the letters sent to Obama and Wicker, he said. Investigators were testing the con-
that extra glass of wine or saying, ‘yes’ to dessert. You just have to eat at a restaurant on a specific day, and all the money stays in your city.” Across the nation, thousands of restaurants donate a portion of their proceeds from the one special day to benefit local HIV/AIDS agencies such as Friends For Life. All of the funds raised in the city remain in the Mid-South to provide food, housing, support services, education, and prevention services to thousands of people affected by HIV/AIDS. Thirty-nine restaurants are participating throughout the metro area. Chefs Andy Ticer and Michael Hudman and General Manager Nick Talarico of Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen are co-chairs of the 5th annual Dining Out For Life! Fifty percent of dinner proceeds from Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen and 25 percent of lunch and dinner proceeds from Hog & Hominy will be donated to Friends For Life. Other restaurants donating 50 percent include Imagine Vegan tents of the letter to determine whether ricin was inside, he said. Holland told CNN the letter originally tested negative for ricin but was being retested Wednesday. Local authorities were awaiting the test results to determine whether to file state charges, Johnson said. “The letter was handled, the chemical was handled by several different individuals in our justice court system,” Johnson said, but added that “we do not have any reason to believe that anyone’s life is in danger.” Investigators are trying to determine whether suspicious letters found at Senate offices elsewhere in the country came from the same source, federal law enforcement sources said. In a statement issued Wednesday, the FBI said it has no indication of a connection between the tainted letters and Monday’s bombings at the finish line of the Boston Marathon. White House spokesman Jay Carney said the president had been briefed on the letters. Wicker has been assigned a pro-
Check out our
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April 18 - 24, 2013
Café (lunch and dinner including beer sales), Rizzos Diner (dinner), and Stone Soup Café and Market (breakfast). For a complete list of participating restaurants, eligible meals, and percent of sales to be donated, visit w w w. d i n i n g o u t f o r l i f e . c o m / memphis. This year’s event is sponsored locally by Kroger, Sysco Memphis, Juan Fuentes and Robert Thompson, Robert Marcy, and Whitehorn, Tankersley & Davis, PLLC. The media sponsor is The New Tri-State Defender. Friends For Life plans to raise more than $20,000 to support its programs and services. Visit www.friendsforlifecorp.org for a comprehensive resource of services, extensive information about HIV/AIDS, or to make a secure donation.
tective detail, according to a law enforcement source. After the arrest was announced Wednesday night, Wicker released a statement thanking “the men and women of the FBI and U.S. Capitol Police for their professionalism and decisive action in keeping our family and staff safe from harm.” His offices in Mississippi and Washington “remain open for business to all Mississippians,” Wicker said in the statement. A previous ricin scare hit the Capitol in 2004, when tests identified it in a letter in a Senate mailroom that served then-Majority Leader and Bill Frist’s office. The discovery forced 16 employees to go through decontamination procedures, but no one reported any ill effects afterward, said Frist, a Republican who represented Tennessee (CNN’s Joe Johns, Jessica Yellin, Dana Bash, Tom Cohen, Terry Frieden, Deanna Hackney, Elwyn Lopez, Lisa Desjardins and Rachel Streitfeld contributed to this report.)
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Cooper Green Mercy Health Services Birmingham, AL NOW HIRING Internal Medicine/Family Practice Physician Excellent opportunity to work in a developing multi-speciality medical practice located in the cityʼs expanding medical and research community. The successful candidate will be joining an organization that is supported by one of the most outstanding clinical sub-speciality groups in America. This position is a part-time contract position for physician services for an out-patient clinic, no hospital coverage, no on-call, no weekends, no site rotation, no evenings and no holidays. Must have M.D. or D.O., completion of U.S. Residency Program and Board Certified or Board eligible. Three years practicing medicine preferred. If interested, e-mail resume to jccjobs @jccal.org and include on the subject line, “Physician Resume”.
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ALL INTERESTED BIDDERS The Shelby County Board of Education will accept written proposals for Physical, Occupation, and Speech Language Therapy Services. Visit our website for additional information: www.mcsk12.net-Departments, Procurement Services link, click on Bids & RFPs. Questions concerning proposals should be addressed to Procurement Services at (901) 416-5376. Thank you for your interest and responses. Jacqueline Saunders, Director Memphis City Schools – Procurement Services ALL INTERESTED BIDDERS The Board of Education of the Memphis City Schools will accept written bids for HVAC Upgrade at Magnolia Elementary School. Visit our website for additional information: http://mcsk12.worldspice.net/ procurement/index.php?mylink=1 Questions concerning bid/RFP should be addressed to Rennaʼ Green, (901) 4165833 or emailed to greenr@mcsk12.net. Thank you for supporting Memphis City Schools. Jacqueline Saunders, Director Procurement Services Request to any parties holding an interest in this vehicle contact (901)275-5637. 1994 Ford F250 VIN 1FTHX26F4RKB09892 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 Tuesday April 30, 2013 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-000207 DUE: TUESDAY APRIL 30, 2013 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. Detailed specifications for items above may be obtained in the Shelby County Department of Housing at the aforementioned address. All bids will be opened and publicly read by the Shelby County Government at the time mentioned above at the Department of Housing, 1075 Mullins Station Road Memphis, TN 38134, (901) 2227600. As a condition precedent to bidding, each bidder must apply and qualify for a Vendor Number and Equal Opportunity Compliance Eligibility Number prior to the submitting your response. Your EOC number must be displayed on the outside of your envelope for each bid submission.
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As a condition precedent to being awarded jobs involving Lead Based Paint, contractors must be certified through EPA as an RRP contractor and/or show proof of application to EPA for said certification and be certified through the State of Tennessee as a Lead Based Paint Firm. Proof of licensing at time of bid submission is required by the Shelby County Department of Housing. The label, which is attached to the specifications shall be completely filled out and attached to the bid submission envelope. You must display your current E.O.C. Eligibility Number or your Locally Owned Small Business (LOSB) Number on the outside of your envelope and a copy of all licenses and insurance policies must be included in your submitted bid package. Unless the label is completely filled out and your current E.O.C. Eligibility Number is noted thereon your bid may be returned to you unopened. Should your label be lost or misplaced, please note the appropriate information in the lower left-hand corner of your envelope. The Department of Housing encourages participation from WBE, MBE, LOSB, and Section 3 Contractors under these rehabilitation programs. The Shelby County Government reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive any informalities therein. By order of MARK H. LUTTRELL, JR., MAYOR SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Jim Vazquez, Administrator
LEGAL NOTICE REQUEST FOR STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS to provide consulting engineering services Charles Baker Airport – Terminal Building Replacement – Design Memphis International Airport Memphis, Tennessee MSCAA Project No. 12-1353-00 Statements of Qualifications for furnishing Consulting Engineering Services, 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 9, 2013. Use the above address for all means of delivery. A complete Information Package with submittal instructions, additional data, selection criteria and response format may be found on our website (www.mscaa.com) on or after April 15, 2013. The scope of work generally consists of the design of a new terminal building to replace the existing terminal building at Charles W. Baker Airport. Work efforts may include, but not necessarily be limited to, architectural design, geotechnical testing and engineering, site surveying, civil engineering design, structural engineering design, M.E.P. engineering design, security systems design (including access control and CCTV), airport siting studies, cost estimating, construction scheduling, bid phase assistance, construction administration support services, and other efforts as required. The MSCAA, 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, hereby notifies all Proposers that it will affirmatively ensure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs) will be afforded full opportunity to submit proposals in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of age, race, sex, color, national origin 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 35% in accordance with the requirements of the Information Package. This project will be funded with 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 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 Larry D. Cox, President & CEO
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Nickalous Manning, Aspire Public Schoolsʼ community outreach and partnerships manager, observes the parents and children at the Aspire tent as they prepare to register their children at Hanley Elementary. (Photo: Wiley Henry/The Carter Malone Group)
Hanley and Aspire mesh at barbeque and registration staffers at Aspire dressed for the occasion, donning blue jeans and purple T-shirts emblazoned with the Aspire logo and slogan “I’m found in Orange Mound.” “This is the epitome of community,” Manning said. “It’s more than a registration; it’s about being on the same page about education. It’s about building a community.” Cynthia Trotter lives down the street from Hanley. She has been a resident of Orange Mound since she can remember, so has her mother and grandparents. Her 9-year-old daughter, Daija Trotter, was a student at Hanley before Aspire took over its operation. Now she will be going to third grade under Aspire. “I want her to continue to go there,” said Trotter, 41. “I had no major problems with the school. But I heard they (Aspire) are supposed to be better.” Monica Keller, 27, said she hopes Aspire does do a good job. “I’m looking for good teachers who will teach reading, math and language,” said Keller, who enrolled three children at Hanley. Keller’s 9-year-old son, Mantrell Keller, will be in third grade next year. Kenterrika Keller, a 7-year-old, will be in first grade. And 5-yearold Kentabions Brooks will start kinder “This is spectacular to see parents come into the school,” said co-principal Barbara Harris. “It’s such a great spirit with students and parents all looking forward to a new start and lots of possibilities for students to realize Aspire’s ‘College for Certain’ mission.” Co-principal Nikita J. Reed said she wants to empower the students at Hanley, provide them with a quality education,
Special to the New Tri-State Defender
by Wiley Henry
It may have been stifling hot last Saturday (April 13) evening for grilled hamburgers and hotdogs and for fun and games, but Alexius Wilson didn’t seem to mind. The 9-year-old gallivanted around the school grounds at Hanley Elementary and jumped in and out of inflatable bouncers, all while her mother, Veronica Black, kept a vigilant watch in the shade. Black was one of several dozen parents who attended the family barbeque and registration drive hosted by Aspire Public Schools, a nonprofit organization operating 34 high-performing, open-enrollment and neighborhood charter schools in California. Aspire was assigned the operations of Hanley in 2012 to begin managing the school in the fall of 2013. “My baby wanted me to come up here to see what was going on. So I signed her up (for the 2013-14 school year),” said Black, 41, the mother of seven girls, including Alexius. “I want her to learn more about technology. She’s a good student. She even shows me stuff that I don’t know.” Alexius and her family reside in the Orange Mound community. She was first enrolled at Hanley in pre-K. By the time she got to second grade, her mother made the decision to enroll her at Treadwell Elementary. Now she’ll be back at Hanley in third grade. “We’re seeing community members take a vested interest in their children. They’re asking tough questions,” said Nickalous Manning, Aspire’s community outreach and partnerships manager. Manning and several
and enhance social development. She was retired principal Ruby Payne’s assistant principal five years ago. “I’m happy to be back,” she said, adding that she wants to keep the community involved and abreast of what is going on at the school. “Ruby taught me that it does take a community for the school to be successful.” Hanley Elementary is nestled in Orange Mound and thrives on community pride and parental support. It also partners with businesses, churches and nonprofits. The founder of one of its partners attended the barbeque and registration drive. “I love Hanley,” said Edward Bogard, the chief sogiver of SoGiv, a nonprofit that raises global awareness and funds for worthy causes through the sale of footware and apparel. The organization supports 16 different causes from childhood cancers to natural disasters. “We’re very excited about partnering with Aspire,” said Bogard, who mentored students at Hanley before his mother retired there as a teacher. He is now contemplating a field trip for the students to attend a Grizzlies game, as he’d also done for the students at Cherokee Elementary. Of the more than 150 parents and children attending the 5-hour barbeque and registration drive, Alexius Wilson spoke with certainty and relative ease about the next school year at Hanley. “I want to learn more about math and reading,” she said. She also would like her old teachers back, but added, “I wouldn’t mind the new teachers.” (Wiley Henry is with The Carter Malone Group.
BRIEFS & THINGS RISE Foundation plans ‘Dream Summit’ for teens
The RISE Foundation will host more than 100 high school juniors and seniors at the second annual Planning Your Dreams Summit on Saturday (April 20) from 9:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the University of Memphis Fogelman Business Center. The summit, an event under RISE’s Goal Card Program, will delve into the financial needs and implications of desired careers. Seminars will provide attendees with basic financial literacy skills, such as goal-setting and budgeting, which are crucial to high school students to aid them in their plans for post-secondary education. “Our children must be and know the difference between what media portrays and reality,” Linda Williams, president/CEO says. “If you desire a certain lifestyle, you must have the education and career that financially supports that. For example, if you’d like to drive an expensive car, make sure your job or career allows you financial flexibility to afford the payments.” The Goal Card Program serves over 400 children in grades 5-12 by providing incentives for good grades, conduct and attendance. Students from schools in the 38126 zip code area of Memphis are enrolled in the program, including Booker T. Washington High School, Cummings Elementary, Vance Middle School and LaRose Elementary. RISE is expanding its reach this year, inviting
students from KIPP Academy, Melrose High School and Southwind High School, in addition to the Goal Card member schools. For more information, contact the RISE Foundation at 901507-6644 or visit www.risememphis.org.
BRIEFLY: The semi-annual Better Business Bureau Secure Your ID Day will be held from 9 a.m. to noon in the parking lot of The Commercial Appeal, 495 Union Ave., on Saturday (April 20). Individuals and small businesses are invited to bring up to 10 boxes or bags of unwanted documents for shredding. Shredding services will be provided on-site by Cintas Document Management. BRIEFLY: A community workshop – “Suicide: A Permanent Solution To A Temporary Problem” – will be held at The New Olivet Baptist Church, 3084 Southern Ave., from 10 a.m.noon on April 27. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. Sponsor: The New Olivet Baptist Church Healthy Congregation Ministry. Guest agencies: Memphis Crisis Center and VAMC Crisis Center. BRIEFLY: On Saturday (April 27), inspirational romance author Jae Henderson visits Kingdom Kreations DaySpa and Salon, 202 Beale St., Ste. 201, during a special Meet and Greet the Author Mix and Mingle from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Henderson is the author of the Christian trilogy “Someday,” “Someday, Too” and “Forever and a Day.” Kingdom Kreations is located at 203 Beale St., Ste. 201. For more information, call Kingdom Kreations at 901-5912136, or visit www.jaehendersonauthor.com.
Tri-State Defender
Tri-State Defender
COMMUNITY
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April 18 - 24, 2013
iTEEN REPORT
Pinky Promise International
2013 Oath Ceremony & Ring Participation Participants
Angel Rayʼs desire to help the Memphis Family Shelter paid off.
Angel Ray shows ‘a heart to help others’
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Deidra Shores
Many people think that teens only think about themselves. Well, I’d like those people to meet one teen that doesn’t fit that description at all. Angel Ray is a 17-year-old Southwind High School student with a heart to help others. Recently, Angel hosted a fashion show in the Hickory Ridge Mall that featured several teen models. Designed to motivate youth through something positive, the fashion show was also to benefit the community. The proceeds from the show went to the Memphis Family Shelter. Angel says she wanted to do an event to help a charity that wasn’t widely known and doesn’t get as much recognition as some of the more popular events. After locking in on the idea, the next step was finding sponsors for clothes, food and decorations. One of her sponsors was Belle of the Ball Consignment, which provided several of their dresses for the fashion show’s prom sequence. Not only is Angel a supporter of her community, she also is a teen author. She wrote “Some Parents Just Don’t Understand,” which is about real teen issues and dealing with parents. Angel says that being a teenager she knows how hard it can
be to get adults to listen and understand you. “Some Parents Just Don’t Understand” is full of real life stories about Angel’s friends and the problems they face as teenagers. She figured that if her friends couldn’t get their parents to listen, then a book definitely would. The book’s purpose is to open the eyes of parents and build a better line of communication between them and their kids. Angel writes that teens dealing with parents who may not want to listen have to make them listen. Her book, she says, makes it easier for the parents to do that by showing them how their kids feel. Throughout Angel’s journey of writing her book and hosting events for charity, her mother, Beverly Anderson, has been one of her biggest supporters. Her aunt and younger cousin lend big support by promoting her events and getting the word out about the positive things she does. Angel says she’s not sure where she sees the “Angel Ray” brand in 5 years, but she knows she wants to continue to host positive events to help others. She also has more books planned, with the next one due out this summer. Congratulations to Angel Ray and to all the teens that showed fashion is fun and can serve more than one purpose.
SGB President & CEO SAPPHIRE KRISTINA BROWN Age 18 Grade 12 Douglass High School
SGB Chief Committees Liaison SAPPHIRE BROOKE ALEXANDRIA WOODS Age 18 Grade 12 Whitehaven High School
SAPPHIRE ALLANA YVONNE MCGHEE Age: 16 Grade: 11 Houston High School
SGB Executive Secretary SAPPHIRE CASEY JORDAN Age 17 Grade 12 Gateway Christian School
SAPPHIRE CRISTIANA ARYELLE BONDS Age: 14 Grade: 9 Southwind High School
SAPPHIRE DANIELLE LATRICE MYLES Age: 15 Grade: 10 Cordova High School
SGB Executive Vice President SAPPHIRE BRAYANA ALEXANDRIA RODGERS Age 18 Grade 12 Kirby High School
SGB Chief Operating Officer SAPPHIRE JADA TATE Age Grade 11 Lausanne Collegiate School
SAPPHIRE KEANDRIA CRAFT Age: 17 Grade: 11 Whitehaven High School
SAPPHIRE KRYSTAL DANSBERRY Age: 14 Grade: 8 Georgian Hills Middle School
SGB Chief Financial Officer SAPPHIRE DANA MOORE Age 16 Grade 10 Power Center Academy
SGB Chaplain SAPPHIRE KENNEDY BREANNA WHITLEY Age 16 Grade 10 White Station High School SGB Vice President 11th Grade SAPPHIRE ALEXIS MARIE JOHNSON Age 17 Grade 11 Germantown High School
SGB Vice President 10th Grade SAPPHIRE IESSHIA THOMAS Age 15 Grade 10 Ridgeway High School
SGB Vice President 9th Grade SAPPHIRE SIMONE ALYSE MAE GOLDEN Age 14 Grade 9 Bowie Reading & Learning Center
The ʻPrincessesʼ of Upward Steps Outreach Girls Ministry and their trio of mentors. (Photo: STROUDMARK Photography)
‘Princesses’ saluted at father-daughter ball
The Upward Steps Outreach Girls Ministry held its Second Annual FatherDaughter Princess Ball last Saturday (April 13) at the Davis Community Center in Orange Mound. Rosemary Austin, Tammy Adolphus and Desiree Thomas run an after-school program via the ministry, focusing on girls from the 4th grade through high school. Brandi Burson, a
10th grade student a White Station High School, was crowned queen. About 200 people attended the event, where the “princesses” were escorted by their fathers, brothers, uncles, friends and members of SKIN, a young men’s group from Carver High School. For more information about Upward Steps, visit w w w. u p w a r d s t e p s g i r l s ministry.org
Southwest commencement…
Memphis business executive Carolyn Chism Hardy will deliver the commencement address to Southwest Tennessee Community Collegeʼs Class of 2013 on May 4 at 10:30 a.m. at the Landers Center in Southaven. Hardy started Hardy Bottling Company in 2006, becoming the first AfricanAmerican female to own a major brewery with the ability to manufacture over 100 million cases. (Courtesy photo)
SAPPHIRE LESLIE PEYTON BEASLEY Age 15 Grade 10 White Station High School
SGB Secretary 11th Grade SAPPHIRE ANTONIA WATTS Age: 17 Grade 11 Germantown High School
SGB Secretary 10th Grade SAPPHIRE VICTORIA NICHOLE NEWSOM Age 16 Grade 10 Cordova High School SGB Secretary 9th Grade SAPPHIRE TENESHA POLLION Age: 14 Grade: 9 Douglass High School
SAPPHIRE JASMAINE NICOLE DEAN Age: 16 Grade: 11 Germantown High School SAPPHIRE ALEXIS DORTCH Age: 16 Grade: 11 Overton High School
SAPPHIRE JACQUETTE LASHELL EDWARDS Age: 17 Grade: 11 Germantown High School
SAPPHIRE CARDIESHA DEʼAUNYA MORRIS Age 14 Grade 9 Germantown High School
SAPPHIRE LAUREN PARKS Age: 15 Grade: 9 Arlington High School SAPPHIRE ROSALYN RICHARDSON Age: 16 Grade: 10 Arlington High School
SAPPHIRE NIA CHENNEL RUFFIN Age: 16 Grade: 11 Southwind High School SAPPHIRE DAIZHA DENIDA RENEE SCOTT Age: 16 Grade: 10 Germantown High School
SAPPHIRE INDIA SADEʼ SCOTT Age: 16 Grade: 10 Germantown High School
SAPPHIRE NAUDIA DOMINQUE GOODMAN Age: 15 Grade: 10 Gateway Christian Schools
SAPPHIRE CARLYN TABRELLE TATE Age: 16 Grade: 10 St. Benedict of Auburndale
SAPPHIRE MAYA RAYCHELLE HILL Age: 16 Grade: 11 Harding Academy of Memphis
SAPPHIRE KIAHNNA TYSON Age: 13 Grade: 8 Highland Oak Middle School
SAPPHIRE TAYLOR LEEANN GOODMAN Age: 16 Grade 10 Gateway Christian Schools
SAPPHIRE SIMONE ROCHON HOLLIDAY Age: 16 Grade: 11 Houston High School
SAPPHIRE JAYLEN JUBRILL JONES Age: 16 Grade: 10 Power Center Academy High School SAPPHIRE AMINA LYONS Age: 15 Grade: 10 Bartlett High School
SAPPHIRE ALEXIS CHERICE TAYLOR Age: 16 Grade: 11 Collierville High School
SAPPHIRE MARIAH WEST Age: 16 Grade: 11 Home Life Academy
SAPPHIRE MORGAN MICHELLE WESTBROOK Age: 16 Grade: 11 Briarcrest Christian School SAPPHIRE TAMIAH KARYNTON WILLIAMS Age: 15 Grade: 10 Whitehven High School
Pledge of abstinence ceremony set for 40 Mid-South girls
Forty girls from throughout the Mid-South will receive a charge to remain abstinent from sexual and substance abuse behaviors during the inaugural Promise Ball Oath Ceremony & Ring Presentation at the Cook Convention Center on Sunday (April 21). Pinky Promise International (PPI) is sponsoring the event, which begins at 5 p.m. The participants – high school students in grades 9-12 – will make their pledges before a crowd expected to number about 900. Vivian Scott Chew, Intercontinental Music Executive, Founder and Principal of TimeZone International will be the keynote speaker. Chew is the wife of Ray Chew, musical director for “American Idol.” PPI promotes abstinence, faith and career-focused mentorship to girls in grades 6-12. It is a “comprehensive, educational, tiered organiza-
Pinky Promise International CEO Vicki Johnson (center), along with Taushia Tate (left) and Renee Greer. (Courtesy photos) tion created to equip girls with accurate information that lends confidence and the ability to make healthy and informed choices.” The group’s motto is “Absti-
nence, Faith & Focus.” During the Promise Ball Ceremony, PPI launch its Virginity Campaign – “Lock It Up” for girls and “Zip It Up” for boys.
Admission is $25, with tickets available by contacting Pinky Promise International at 901-483-4955 or by email at vmjohnson@pinky promiseinternational.org.
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Tri-State Defender