VOL. 62, No. 17
April 25 - May 1, 2013
www.tsdmemphis.com
75 Cents
‘Still more’ is needed, says former U.S. Sec. of Education TSD Women of Excellence Gala April 27
Peers, family, friends and community leaders will salute The New TriState Defender’s 2013 Women of Excellence during a Champagne Brunch and Awards Celebration on Saturday at the Memphis Botanic Garden, 750 Cherry Rd. The sixth annual WOE gala begins at 10 a.m. Each year, the TSD sets out to salute 50 honorees “who have been consistently committed to the highest principles of servant leadership and positively touching the lives of others,” said President/Publisher Bernal E. Smith II. Rose Jackson Flenorl, Manager of Social Responsibility at FedEx Corporation, is the keynote speaker. A previous WOE honoree, Flenorl is among 250 outstanding AfricanAmerican professionals and community leaders who have been honored by the TSD. All are distinguished by their civic contributions and career achievements. Rodney Dunigan, news anchor for ABC24, will serve as Master of Ceremony and guide a morning filled with performances by the critically acclaimed band Prosody, along with other special guest performances. Ticket and table reservations are first come, first serve. Purchase tickets online at at www.women ofexcellence2013.eventbrite.com or call 901-523-1818 for more information.
The New Tri-State Defender
by Dorothy Bracy Alston When you come from rural Mississippi and – by your own description – “wiggle my way to the White House” to become the first African American to serve as U.S. Secretary of Education, there might be a tendency to think you’ve done enough. No so with Dr. Rod Paige, the seventh Department of Education secretary in U.S. history, and the keynote speaker last Sun-
day (April 20) at the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Beta Epsilon Chapter’s Second Annual Educational Advancement Foundation Scholarship Breakfast. The early morning event, held with the support of Dr. Lester Baskins and Middle Baptist Church, 801 Whitehaven Lane, was designed to continue the sorority’s legacy of scholarship and service. The theme was “Awesome Support for Education: The AKA Way.” Dr. Paige was invited to offer his perspective on the importance of education in today’s economy.
And, in his own way, he did. While not dismissing his accomplishments, or those of myriad others, Paige declared that not enough had been done “when I see too many African Americans in jail (and) the drop-out rates of kids too high across the United States.” It’s not enough, he said, “when I see myself and my colleagues excelling and the kids with their pants below their butt. It’s not enough. We need to get that (the probSEE PAIGE ON PAGE 2
For MBWEs, gaining City biz not simple Some say benefits Worth the effort
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Tony Jones
(The New Tri State Defender is exploring the behind-the-scenes work in building more minority- and womenowned businesses. This is installment two.)
- INSIDE -
• Hip hop, sagging pants, strippers and parenting. See Opinion, page 4. • Ekundayo Bandele & the Business of the Arts. See Business, page 5. • For the grill: A spicy lentil cauliflower burger. See Health, page 7.
ʻIʼm so ready to head off to college and see what I can accomplish there….I canʼt do anything about the things that I didnʼt have any control over, but I can do my best at the things that I do.ʼ – Johnathan Burroughs-Cook (Photo: Kelvin Cowans) Mike Tyson
• Mike Tyson: The ‘Scary Movie 5’ interview. See Entertainment, page 8. • Math Made Simple ready to kick fear at summer camp. See Community, page 10.
MEMPHIS WEEKEND
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
H- 7 0o - L - 5 5o Sho wers
H- 6 6o - L - 5 5o T-Sh owers
H- 7 6o - L - 5 8o Cl o udy
REGIONAL TEMPS LITTLE ROCK NASHVILLE JACKSON, MS
Friday H-67 L-57 H-70 L-52 H-79 L-59
Saturday H-69 L-55 H-59 L-57 H-74 L-59
Sunday H-76 L-56 H-68 L-57 H-79 L-58
Dr. Rod Paige
‘The murder, the ghost and the scholarship’ Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Kelvin Cowans
Johnathan Burroughs-Cook – a standout basketball player for Ridgeway High School – speaks about the murder of his assistant basketball coach (Jimmy McClain), the disappearance of his teammate (McKenzie Sewell), the married adult who posed as a teenager and enrolled to play on the team, and an end-of-season “blessing.” This is for real life and not something birthed from the mind of a Hollywood screenwriter, so hold on. We have to begin this somewhere, so let’s start with the murder. “Our coach, Wes Henning, came into the locker room and broke the news to the entire team about coach (Jimmy McClain), that he had been murdered at his home (February 22). We knew something was up because coach McClain hadn’t been to school in a few days,” said Johnathan Burroughs-Cook, Ridgeway High School’s star point guard. “There had been a substitute teacher. When we heard that news we all broke down into tears. It
was so hard because we had all just went out to eat at Chili’s restaurant the night before it happened. We were celebrating winning the District Championship, He was his normal self, telling jokes and just having fun with us.” “What did he mean to your team,” I asked. “He meant a lot to our team because we knew that he had played basketball at a very high level and that was where we were trying to make it to one day. He played with (former Chicago Bull) Scottie Pippen, so that was big. This was his first year with us, but that didn’t matter, we all were family. “ McClain, said Johnathan, was the one who would encourage them during practice to work harder and be the best they could be. He wanted them to leave it all on the court when they played. “I can still hear his voice and all he was talking about this year was that we have got to win that state ring, you know win the championship. So when he was found dead, we really were focused in on our assignments. We wanted to win it for him.” SEE RIDGEWAY ON PAGE 11
The revolution would be televised if the City of Memphis lost muchneeded funds because its Division of Finance used vendors that were not up to snuff – minority- and womenowned businesses or not. Avoiding potential mistakes in the process of finding qualified minority and women-owned business enterprises (MWBEs) is part of the job assigned to the city’s Office of Contract Compliance. That work is being carried out amid periodic expressions of sheer dissatisfaction, such as voiced at the Minority Business Development Oversight Committee (MDOC) last week (April 17). In that instance the rub was unhappiness about the level of MWBEs the Division of Finance uses to assist in managing the city’s $2 billion pension fund. There apparently is a local point of reference to work from. Sources familiar with the Shelby County Finance Department said it maintains a list of 200-plus MWBE investment advisors. The City of Memphis’ Office of Contract Compliance is a threeperson operation staffed by analyst Joyce Douglas, Taunya Falkner Mary and Contract ComBright pliance Officer Mary Bright. “We maintain a list of vendors qualified for doing business with the city, but we only deal with companies that have been certified as an MWBE,” said Bright. “We don’t have the manpower to vet the entire workload that we face, so we outsource much of the work to three separate firms, then vet their work again for accuracy,” she said. Those vetting firms are the Uniform Certification Agency, the Women’s Business Enterprise Council and the Tennessee Minority Supplier Development. All are privately owned and some used to dealing with the compliance process say minorityand women-owned businesses desirous of gaining certification would be well served to find out more about how the firms do their jobs. The compliance office does extend its expertise to businesses that have not yet secured certification. “We work with them to become certified through our partner agencies,” said Bright. “But when seeking businesses to place for city contracts, we only work with certified firms.” Bright said the office’s database lists close to 350 MWBEs qualified for city contract work. TSD’s “On Our Way To Wealthy” contributor Carlee McCullough worked in the compliance office for several years as the list grew. “When you have a disparity or diversity program that is race-based, you have to utilize firms that have SEE MWBE ON PAGE 2
NEWS
Page 2
Tri-State Defender
April 25 - May 1, 2013
‘Fitness Month’ – a focus chance for African-American women Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Wiley Henry
Evidence has shown that while African-Americans have high cholesterol levels, they are slightly lower compared to white Americans. But then they have a 30 percent chance of dying from heart disease, according to a 2010 report from the American Heart Association. Since April is National African-American Women’s Fitness Month, it has been on Leona Buchanan’s mind to change her diet, her lifestyle, and start exercising. “Black people are known to have high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure and diabetes,” said Buchanan, who grappled with high cholesterol herself. Buchanan has given up beef and pork, and eats only fish, chicken and turkey. She also joined the Healthy Church Challenge 100-day weight loss competition to work off those unwanted pounds. Last year she lost a total of 30 pounds during the Challenge and gained 10 back. “I’m still working on it,” said Buchanan, a member of Fullview Missionary Baptist Church. Now she is working on losing 50 pounds altogether. “I’m just trying to stay healthy by eating the right foods and exercising so I can
PAIGE
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
lems) fixed and we’re the only ones that can fix it.” The Educational Advancement Foundation has granted $2.5 million in awards since 1932 and Paige noted what he readily acknowledged as “awesome support.” Still, “we need more,” he said. “The question is what can we do? Number one, it takes leadership. Someone needs to feel in charge of the process. Decide how we’re now working, ain’t working,” Paige said. “We cannot hand off the responsibility of educating our kids to the schools. That’s a big problem. “The schools are not the responsible ones,” he said. “The schools can and must help, but it’s not solely their responsibility to educate our children. No one’s accepting responsibility.” In an interview with The New Tri-State Defender, Dr. Paige was asked two questions: Was he familiar with the issues surrounding merging the Memphis and Shelby County School Districts? And what advice might he give parents as they prepare for the school merger? “I have followed what has been in the press. My advice would be general,” Dr. Paige said. “My advice for parents and citizens is not to sit in default, and not to allow this important conversation to take place without them participating in it. If it requires voting, then there should be massive turnouts to acknowledge your views on the matter,” he said.
live longer,” said Buchanan, a 55-year-old mother of three daughters. African-American women like Buchanan are working out quite often and changing their lifestyle – not just to get in a smaller dress size, but to be a little more active to ward off diseases that statistically affect African-Americans. Many of those diseases, along with a sedentary lifestyle, contribute to AfricanAmerican women becoming obese according to the AHA. These facts were reasons why Sheila Madison, a personal development training specialist in Washington, D.C., founded The National African-American Women’s Fitness Month seven years ago. “Focusing on fitness during the month of April allows me an opportunity to help women become aware of the negative effects of an inactive lifestyle. In addition, the month of April symbolizes renewal and it’s an excellent time to jump-start a fitness schedule after the winter months,” said Madison, founder of Sheila Madison & Associates. Debora Edingbourgh started her fitness schedule at the beginning of the year. A high cholesterol level and a lump in her breast convinced her to take her health seriously. Her parents also helped to make up her mind.
‘We cannot hand off the responsibility of educating our kids to the schools.’ – Dr. Rod Paige
“Parents default by not being active participants in the discussion.” Organizations should take a leadership role by taking a position “in a partisan way,” he continued. “Organizations should take the leadership by becoming active participants in helping citizens to understand the problems and the issues. They should explain the issues to parents and make sure they know what’s going on; why and how it will affect them and their children. “Leaders should speak to two groups – have a message to the children and a message to the systems. The message to the children is for them to work hard, stay in school, and that they can succeed,” he said. “The message to the systems is that we’re here to help see to it that the systems are fair to the students, that they are working on behalf of the students and we will assist on that and other important issues.”
Roots of commitment
Born and raised in rural, segregated Monticello, Miss., Paige is the oldest of four siblings, one of which is Dr. Raygene Paige, who chaired the Educational Advancement Foundation’s annual event. Their father was a principal and their mother a librarian. None of the siblings had a choice about whether they were going to college, he said.
MWBE
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
gone through a rigorous process to make sure they are minority- or women-owned. Sometimes it is a considerable process, but it is designed to prevent fraudulent and front companies.” Still, there is more to it than weeding out ownership cheaters. “You have to be sure that they are ready to perform in the capacity that is needed,” McCullough said. “A few years ago we were searching for commercial roofers but we could not put a goal on the contract because we didn’t have any (MWBE) firms that were truly capable and certified. “When you are talking about city projects you are talking about large commercial structures such as the FedExForum. You can’t place a company there because the government cannot set forth a goal for one company. But we have many, many that are qualified, such as in basics such as masonry, HVAC, plumbing.” The certification process and pursuing the course to get government business may seem tedious, but Black Business
Carlee McCullough
The hundreds of women who joined the Healthy Church Challenge 100-day workout competition, including Rebecca Hutchinson, are now taking their health seriously. (Photo: Wiley Henry/The Carter Malone Group)
“My parents suffer from high blood pressure and diabetes. They take so many pills and I didn’t want to be like that,” said Edingbourgh, who didn’t hesitate to sign up when the Challenge launched on Feb. 2. A member of First Baptist Church-Broad, Edingbourgh started pushing herself to lose the weight. “The Healthy Church Challenge motivated me even more to work off the weight,” said Edingbourgh, the mother of two sons. “I just want to live a long healthy life,” she said. Although Edingbourgh is working out nearly every day
“I recall being asked by an elementary school student; ‘Why did you decide to go to college?’ The reason I decided to go to college is because I enjoyed breathing,” he said. “We need to get back to making decisions for our children and get back there fast.” There is no other way to “advance us quicker to a place, other than education,” he said. “Our problem is we’ve let the children be the adult.” Following his parents’ example, Paige harvested an impressive educational career. He began working with students early in his profession as a teacher and a coach. Later, he was elected as a trustee and officer of the Houston Independent School District (HISD) Board of Education. For 10 years, Paige served as Dean of the College of Education at Texas Southern University. He left to become superintendent of HISD, the nation’s seventh largest school district, where he served for eight years. During this tenure, he was named National Superintendent of the Year by the American Association of School Administrators. Since leaving the White House staff, Dr. Paige has served on the boards of numerous foundations, corporations, and non-profit organizations, working to advance education in the United States and around the world. Two schools are named in his honor. The Monticello (Mississippi) Middle School was renamed the Rod Paige Middle School, and in Houston the James Bowie Elementary School is now Rod Paige Elementary School.
“When you have a disparity or diversity program that is race-based, you have to utilize firms that have gone through a rigorous process to make sure they are minority- or womenowned. Sometimes it is a considerable process, but it is designed to prevent fraudulent and front companies.” Carlee McCullough
Association President Roby Williams said the potential rewards are real. “I can think of several member businesses that have bene-
fited simply by going through the process of applying for a city contract, even when not successful the first time,” said. “It improved their processes and how they did their business.”
to stay healthy, she also is working with her husband – who is predisposed to diabetes – to get his cholesterol level down. “He’s on the same path that I’m on. So it makes it easy,” she said. Edingbourgh used to drink two to three sodas a day. She stopped cold turkey in December 2012. Now she drinks only water. “I was a Dr. Pepper addict,” she admits. Gwyneth Cloyd quit the Challenge last year shortly after signing up. She still needed to get the weight off, so she decided she’d stay the course this time. “The Healthy
Church Challenge started on my birthday, so I figured it would be a good birthday present for me,” she said. A member of Fullview Missionary Baptist Church, Cloyd made a personal decision to take care of herself. In fact, she wants to lose 50-75 pounds. She is challenging herself to eat the right foods and exercise. “I’m not on a diet; it’s a lifestyle change,” said Cloyd, adding, “Women are emotional eaters. It’s not that we have a physical need to eat; we have an emotional need to eat.” Cloyd is the caretaker of her 84-year-old mother. Her father
died two years ago. Now that she’s 56 years old and working a full-time job, the thought of living a sedentary lifestyle just didn’t make sense to her. “I’m looking better and I feel better,” she said. A 9-1-1 supervisor for Shelby County Government, Cloyd has heard a lot of distressed calls. Most of them would rankle or evoke sympathy, she said. “The Challenge is good, but my overall health is the biggest motivator in this competition.” (Wiley Henry is with The Carter Malone Group.)
NATION
Tri-State Defender
Page 3
April 25 - May 1, 2013
Affordability issue worsens as states slash college aid NNPA
by Freddie Allen
WASHINGTON – As President Obama continues to underscore the need to increase the college-educated workforce significantly by 2020, all except two states have slashed their funding for higher education. “Cuts to state funding for higher education, since the start of the recession, have been severe and very widespread,” said Phill Oliff, a policy analyst for the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a nonpartisan think tank that analyzes government policy and programs. According to a report by the center, from fiscal year 2008 to fiscal year 2013, every state
slashed spending on higher education except for North Dakota and Wyoming. “States and to a much lesser extent local governments provide just over half of the revenue that can be used to support instruction at these schools. When the funding gets cut public colleges and universities, generally must raise either tuition cut spending or a combination of both to fill the gap,” said Oliff. “That is exactly what’s happened since the start of the recession.” The CBPP report found that states are spending $2,353 or 28 percent less per student on higher education, nationwide, in the current 2013 fiscal year than they did in 2008, when the recession hit. Louisiana, Alabama Florida
South Carolina and Mississippi – where 41 historically Black colleges and universities are located – have cut higher education spending by 30 percent or more in the last five years. Louisiana schools experienced the steepest cuts of the southern states, shaving 41.2 percent from higher education budgets and North Carolina was least impacted with 14.6 percent. Georgia, home to 10 HBCUs, has cut spending by nearly 30 percent in the last five years. The lack of resources at the state and local level and a fall in enrollment recently forced Morehouse College in Atlanta, Ga. to furlough its entire faculty and staff over spring break. “Our states have a history of
not investing in our historically black colleges so that they will be comparable to the white schools,” said Lezli Baskerville, president the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education (NAFEO), an organization of the nation’s historically black colleges and universities. Even though federal financial aid and tax credits have also increased significantly, Oliff said that the federal government erred by cutting off emergency aid to states at a time when state revenues were far from fully recovered. Some state schools were forced to raise tuition to try and make up difference, but the increases in tuition haven’t been able to keep pace with the changes in lost revenue.
NAFEO President Lezli Baskerville (NNPA Photo by Freddie Allen)
As schools try to balance their books, Oliff said that the price of attending a four-year public college has grown significantly faster than the growth in median income over the last two decades. “Tuition increases as steep, as they have been, have made up for only part of the revenue loss resulting from state funding cuts. Public colleges and universities have often cut spending often in ways that threaten educational equality,”
said Oliff. According to the report, tuition at four-year colleges has increased by more than 50 percent in seven states; 25 percent in 18 states; and 15 percent in 40 states. Because federal aid hasn’t kept paced with tuition increases, the cost of going to college has fallen heavier on families who can barely afford day-to-day expenses, let alone thousands of dollars in college tuition.
NAACP chief: A GOP path to black votes by Benjamin Todd Jealous Special to CNN
(Benjamin Todd Jealous is president and CEO of the NAACP.)
Earlier this month Sen. Rand Paul (R-Kentucky) visited Howard University to take a swing at repairing relations between African Americans and the Republican Party. As famed sportscaster Harry Kalas would have said, it was largely a swing and a miss. Paul struck out when he tried to equate today’s Republican Party with the party of Abraham Lincoln, while ignoring much of the 150 years in between. (He even acknowledged his mistakes shortly after). But his willingness to step up to the plate can provide a lesson for a GOP struggling to get on top.
Republicans will not win black votes by paying lip service to party history while attacking social programs and voting rights. But they can make inroads by showing a commitment to civil rights, something Paul managed to do briefly in his remarks. Paul received applause when he told the Howard crowd, “We should not have drug laws or a court system that disproportionately punishes the black community.” He illustrated using one issue where the GOP can connect with black voters: criminal justice reform. Just before the 2012 elections, the NAACP took a nonpartisan survey of black voters in key swing states. We found that 55 percent of African Americans believe Republicans “don’t care at all about civil rights” while another 32 percent think the party “just says what minorities want to
hear.” But 14 percent said they would be more likely to vote for a Republican in the future, if they found a candidate who demonstrated a strong commitment to civil rights. Mass incarceration is a fundamental civil rights issue. African Americans make up 40 percent of the 2.4 million people in America’s bloated prison system. That includes the vast majority of those in prison for nonviolent drug offenses. If current trends continue, one in three black males born today can expect to spend time in prison during his life. As Paul demonstrated, mass incarceration is also a fundamental conservative issue. State spending on prisons has tripled over the last 30 years, reaching $70 billion in 2008. Federal prisons are at 139 percent capacity, often thanks to harsh mandatory minimum sentences. And who pays for all
these guards, beds and three square meals a day? Taxpayers. In fact, some red states have led the way on criminal justice reform. In Georgia, South Carolina and Texas, Republican legislatures have teamed up with progressives to increase options for parole and reduce mandatory minimums. In Texas, the NAACP and progressive activists worked with leaders of the Tea Party to pass a dozen reform measures. Last year, Texas scheduled the first prison closure in state history. Rand Paul is not the first national Republican leader to speak up, either. Newt Gingrich and Jeb Bush are both members of the conservative think tank Right on Crime. And in 2011, Gingrich joined Grover Norquist and other unlikely allies – including Mike Jiminez, the president of California’s prison guard union – to endorse the NAACP’s report,
“Misplaced Priorities: Over Incarcerate, Under Educate.” The report revealed how the rise in prison spending has caused states to spend less on education. These alliances should draw the attention of Republican leaders. Many Democrats shy away from talking about criminal justice reform, for fear of being labeled “soft on crime.” According to the NAACP’s election survey, 42 percent of African-American voters believe the Democratic Party is failing them on criminal justice. The GOP has a chance to fill the leadership vacuum and demonstrate their civil rights bona fides. Paul is poised to lead the conversation on criminal justice reform. At Howard he touted the “Justice Safety Valve Act of 2013,” which he recently introduced with Senate Judiciary Committee
Chairman Patrick Leahy, the Democratic senator from Vermont. The bill would allow federal judges to bypass federal mandatory minimum sentences if the sentence is too lengthy or if it simply does not fit the crime. Paul told students that his friends called him “either brave or crazy” for showing up at Howard University, a statement that says more about his friends than the audience at Howard. Nonetheless, Paul and his Republican Party would display true bravery, and political savvy, by taking this opportunity to walk Lincoln’s walk and take on the new Jim Crow. Moving from “tough on crime” to “smart on crime” would be good for this country. It would also be a smart move for the Republican Party if they ever hope to get on base with black voters.
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John H. Sengstacke Publisher (1951 - 1997)
The Mid-Southʼs Best Alternative Newspaper
A Real Times Newspaper
OPINION
Tri-State Defender
April 25 - May 1, 2013
• Bernal E. Smith II President / Publisher • Dr. Karanja A. Ajanaku Executive Editor
Blame a darkskinned man
Black leaders have sold out
Heal The Hood Foundation founder LaDell Beamon (left) and Hot 107.1 FMʼS DJ Lomax. (Photo: Kelvin Cowans)
Hip hop, sagging pants, strippers and parenting
While the Heal The Hood Foundation-sponsored concert at American Way Middle School (April 20) was what urban youth would call “off the chains,” there were multiple panel discussions that were just as “cool” – particularly the one about hip hop and its following. The words Hot 107.1 FM’S DJ Lomax spoke were not a remix, nor were they commercialized. Every child and adult in the room knew that this was an original perception because there was far too much knowledge in the message for it to have been recycled or sampled. Dressed in army fatigues, his words carried the weight of a drill sergeant. “I’m the current A&R for Mizay Entertainment The Brick Squad, where I find artist and mold artist into what can become profitable. … I don’t always agree with what they say. But at the end of the day this is all about money, the all mighty dollar. … “I was born into hip hop and many people can’t say that. Curtis Blow and African Bambada were the original groups of hip hop, which eventually changed in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s. People choose to put different titles on it but it was and still is all about money. … “I don’t go to work everyday not to receive a check. Neither do I go to work everyday to belittle or (degrate) my people. If Wacka Flava raps something that I don’t agree with, I tell him, ‘I don’t like that,’ but again it’s all about money. The parent that allows their child to listen to it, I say it’s their fault. You can stop your child from listening to any old thing that comes out.” Kelvin Cowans: Do you have any children sir and if so what do you teach them being that you are indeed in the middle of the music industry?... “I have a 14-year-old son and there are some songs you can’t play for my son because he doesn’t know it. He just simply doesn’t know it. He’s not playing dumb for me. … My son can’t go anywhere without me knowing it. … I know who my child’s friends are. These are the principles that my mother raised me with. How is it that these trainings are eluding our kids of today? Parents are not doing their jobs. “As a DJ or a program director our job is to play a record that has been paid for or that the streets are pushing for … even if that song is about drugs. A molly is a drug that was created in the streets and now they make songs about it. So, if you allow your kids to run wild and run all over you, to listen to these songs or watch whatever video they wish to on television, then that’s what you get.” Check out this subsequent interplay from the panel discussion.
Parent: So, are you saying that the parents are the only ones accountable? DJ Lomax: I’m saying that the parents have to be the first accountable. After that, if you have an artist or group that makes revolutionary music which you know has a positive message like The Tribe Called Quest, Public Enemy or X-Clan made, and your child goes and purchases it, then you will eliminate Gangsta Rap. If they are not making money, then they will not record it. They will do a switch over to revolutionary music because they want to make a profit. We all pay attention to what’s hot. Look at our panel up here. These people are wearing certain clothing, they have certain hair styles and they
speak in a certain way. All for profit! This man to the left has braids in his hair. That is a bi-product of hip hop. When I was a kid you couldn’t braid my hair. I’d have a fit. But because hip hop said it Kelvin was OK and the Cowans music industry confirms it’s OK by pushing those artist, we do it. You wear your pant’s half off your behind because hip hop said it was cool. I worked 13 years for The Shelby County Sheriff’s Department before I really stepped into this music industry. Wearing your pants off your but is a symbolization of homosexuality in jail, but because hip hop said it was cool, we buy into it. We have to start correction at home. We must start correction and balancing at home. TSD Publisher/ President Bernal E. Smith II: At the end of the day is art imitating life or is life imitating art? At the end of the day, we have to ask ourselves what happened to our value systems? I love hip hop, all the way back to like he said A Tribe Called Quest, The Beastie Boys, The Fat Boys and RUN DMC. I’m a product of hip hop as well. This is how we grew up. Kelvin aka Six~Four, that young man Thacker Boy, we all listened to these artist as well. But when NWA came along we liked them better. We were done with the old way. It’s influential. Parent: They are the ones who started all of this, these rappers. DJ Lomax: You guys have to understand that when you grew up and you listen to and see these things, such as the drive-by shooting, that was based on the art that was being made. You didn’t grow up around drive-by shootings and neither did I. I didn’t grow up around it. People make their lives worst because it sounds better. Now it’s better to be worst. When I grew up we wanted to get out of the hood. Now you got people saying that they in the hood and they’re not ever leaving. Are you serious? TSD’s Smith: So tell me this, how do we have these top artists in the world, such as Jay-Z, Little Wayne and Rick Ross to name a few, making multimillions of dollars and all they’re talking about is what kind of drugs their using or selling or how much money they got? The songs stay the same, it’s just worded a different way. DJ Lomax: Because we buy it. Jay-Z ain’t selling drugs no more. Rick Ross ain’t never sold drugs. TSD’s Smith: Exactly. DJ Lomax: Only because we buy it. Even Little Wayne, he hasn’t sold nothing. I don’t care how good the story is, he hasn’t sold nothing. Experiment with all types of drugs yes, I’m sure, but he hasn’t sold nothing. We buy into dramatics; great movie, great dramatics. We buy into the best story. TSD’s Smith: I know that and you know that, but for the parent’s here, how do we relate the real story to our kids? DJ Lomax: We have to use better parenting. It’s amazing to me that the stripper is the role model for many of our little girls now. How did we come to that? (Kelvin Cowans can be reached at (kelvincowans@hotmail.com.)
Once again the black community has been shown how irrelevant they have become in the U.S. Most of the blame can be laid at the feet of the media-appointed black leadership for selling out their people. And we’ve gotten nothing in return. At least Judas Iscariot had sense enough to get 30 pieces of silver when he sold out Jesus Christ. Isn’t it amazing that with all the debate swirling around the issue of amnesty for the illegals in the U.S., no one on either side of the debate has engaged with the black community? Blacks will be hurt the most by giving amnesty to these 11 million illegals and yet there has not been one town hall meeting with the black community to discuss how this issue will negatively impact the black community’s high unemployment rate. The official black unemployment rate was 13.3 percent in March, approximately double the white rate of 6.7 percent. If the white community had the same unemployment number as blacks, it would be declared a national emergency and Congress would be having hearings all over the country to solve this problem. So, why do liberal black groups – the NAACP, the National Urban League, and the Congressional Black Caucus – put so much energy in support of homosexual marriage and amnesty for illegals? These groups acknowledge the unemployment rate in the black community is at an epidemic level, but their solution is to increase competition for the few low and unskilled jobs, in which blacks are disproportionately represented. So the media trots out Ben Jealous, Marc Morial, Marcia Fudge and Al Sharpton to provide political cover for a policy that will further devastate the black community. These folks do not represent the black community, they represent the Democratic Party. In most cases, the black community’s interest is not the same as the Democratic Party’s interests. Jealous, Morial, Fudge and Sharpton are more concerned with getting invited to a party so they can take a picture with Obama or Valerie Jarrett. Why is it that these media-appointed blacks always take up other groups’ causes to the detriment of the people they claim to represent? Where was the illegal Hispanic community on Trayvon Martin? Where was the homosexual community on apartheid in South Africa or the genocide in Rwanda? Where are the white women on repealing the “wet foot, dry foot policy” in Miami? None of these groups have stood with blacks on any of these issues, yet blacks lose their minds to support them on the issues they care about – homosexual marriage, amnesty for illegals, and including women in affirmative action. The rank-and-file in the black community is totally against amnesty for illegals, marriage for homosexuals, etc. In fact, in a poll commis-
sioned for BET Founder Robert L. Johnson, respondents were asked: “Do you believe Hispanic Americans will achieve greater economic growth than African Americans over the next 5 years?” Raynard More than half – Jackson 51 percent – replied yes, with only 19 percent saying no and 30 percent not sure. Can somebody please explain to me how the media touts polls that say 65 percent of Americans support homosexual marriage, yet 30 states have laws on the books that define marriage as between a man and a woman? The math doesn’t add up. Even in the Bob Johnson poll, the black community was split, with 42 percent saying marriage should be restricted to a man and a woman. When asked if equal rights for gays are the same as equal rights for blacks, 55 percent said no, 28 percent said yes and 17 percent were unsure. Don’t believe all the bogus polls about how America supports amnesty for these illegals – because they don’t. Remember, these are the same polls that said the criminal background check bill would past the Senate last week. As it was with the defeat of the criminal background check bill before the Senate last week, the amnesty bill submitted in the Senate will similarly be defeated. The liberal media and their appointed black mouthpieces will be totally discredited upon the defeat of this amnesty bill. These are some of the issues that the Republican Party can engage with the black community on and win new allies in the fight to bring them into the party. I challenge GOP leaders to do a series of town hall meetings within the black community on these issues of illegal immigration, homosexual marriage, and values in general. Even within the Republican Party, there are varying positions on these issues, but the point of the town halls is to show that there are many opinions within the black community on these issues. As I have often said, Republicans never engage the black community even when they agree with the party on certain issues. As Reagan once told me, “my 80 percent friend is not my 20 percent enemy.” If the Republican Party deals with some of these issues, then we might be able to say, “My 93 percent enemy can become my 20 percent friend.” (Raynard Jackson is president & CEO of Raynard Jackson & Associates, LLC., a Washington, D.C.based public relations/government affairs firm. He can be reached via www.raynardjackson.com. Follow him on Twitter at raynard1223.)
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Tri-State Defender Platform
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I don’t know where CNN’s John King got the information that a suspect in the Boston bombing was “a dark-skinned male,” but beyond apologizing, he needs to explain himself. Julianne How many Malveaux sources gave him the false tip? If it was fewer than two, then he violated a basic journalism rule. Who were these sources (if you don’t want to out them publicly, tell your editor)? Did King understand that he used the kind of racial/ethnic coding that once got people, even uninvolved and innocent people, lynched? Remember Charles Stuart? He was riding through Roxbury (used to be the “hood”) when he says a black man, wearing a jogging suit with a stripe on the sleeve, shot him and his wife in an attempted carjacking Pregnant Carol Stuart lived for just a few hours, and their baby, delivered by C-section, lived for only 17 days. Stuart’s report of the alleged incident sparked a national outpouring of sympathy of him, and an excoriation of “black criminals” who do such senseless things. The police were going door-todoor looking for a suspect, and several black men were interrogated. Stewart identified one man in a lineup, and police were building a case against him when it discovered that Stuart’s wounds were self-inflicted and that his brother had helped him slaughter his wife. Meanwhile, Stuart collected at least $100,000 from an insurance policy on his wife, using the money to pay for a new car in cash, and to buy jewelry. Unable to face the consequences of his actions, Stuart committed suicide by jumping off a bridge. Stuart was too much a coward to be judged by a jury of his peers, but hundreds of black men could not escape the injustice of the Stuart accusations. The Roxbury community was traumatized by the results of Stuart’s lies. Innocent men were questioned, many spending time at police stations in an effort to clear themselves. Those questioned and detained included students, professional men, the unemployed, and everybody in between. When in doubt, blame a black man, any black man, and let the chips fall where they may. In 1994, Susan Smith, a South Carolina housewife, said that a black man stole her two children. Later, she confessed to killing her own children. Again, dozens of innocent black men were stopped, frisked, and taken to police stations for questioning. Clearly Susan Smith was mentally ill, but she wasn’t so broken that she didn’t know that blaming her children’s disappearance on a black man gave her lies more credibility. The Stuart and Smith cases made headlines in the late 20th century. Now, our feet are firmly planted in the 21st century. Does this kind of racist stereotyping still take place? While these kinds of cases no longer make headlines, I wouldn’t be surprised if any of these occurrences continue to be. When in doubt, blame a black man. So here comes CNN’s John King, a heretofore-respected newsman, who repeatedly said that a “dark skinned man” was a suspect in the Boston bombing. Here we go again. This kind of false reporting makes every dark-skinned man in Boston a suspect, reminds Bostonians of the Stuart hoax, and sends a shudder through those African Americans who remember police officers going door to door in housing projects rounding up the black men. Thanks, John King. Your job is to report the news, not make it. I wonder if you will apologize as many times as you said “dark-skinned man” or if you will ever explain where you got your false information. I’d hate to think that you transitioned from journalist to creative writer when you shared this information. Some will say no harm was done because there was a correction. No harm was done if you don’t know the history. If someone described an alleged criminal as a white man with brown hair, it is unlikely that the police would go door to door looking for a white man with brown hair. That’s the basic racism that is the foundation of our nation’s history. John King’s erroneous reporting reminds us how easy it is to blame a “dark skinned” man. (NNPA columnist Julianne Malveaux, Washington, D.C.-based economist and writer, is President Emerita of Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, N.C.)
Tri-State Defender
BUSINESS
April 25 - May 1, 2013
ON OUR WAY TO WEALTHY
Ekundayo Bandele & the Business of the Arts Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Carlee McCullough
Part 1
As the owner of the Hattiloo Thea t r e , Ekundayo Bandele is bringing the arts to a commuCarlee nity that McCullough just may need a reminder of its great history. The productions coming from his stage rival those in other metropolitan cities, including Chicago and New York and maybe even London, England.
Carlee McCullough: What brought you to Memphis? Ekundayo Bandele: I first moved to Memphis in 1994 with my youngest daughter, Hattie, and then in 1995 Lou was born. I moved here to care for my father who was then ill. My father died in 1996. I left Memphis and returned to New York. I traveled through Europe. I was in Spain, France and England before I returned to New York as an art broker. I moved to Memphis in 2004 permanently to be closer to my girls. CM: What attracted you to the theatre? EB: In 1997, one of my plays was poorly produced. I decided then that no one would have that much say over my art anymore. In 2005, a friend in Memphis, Michael from Germany and his wife Libby, were great philanthropists. They really supported the arts. He pointed out that there was an absence of black theatres in Memphis. There had been previous attempts to establish one. He knew of my history as a playwright and as an entrepreneur. CM: Your daughters’ names are Hattie and Lou. So obviously the theatre is named after your girls, correct? EB: Exactly! Hattiloo is
named after my two daughters.
C M : Did you have encouragement to pursue the theatre? E B : Ekundayo Michael Bandele and Jackie Nichols, the founders of Playhouse on the Square, provided their encouragement. I did this event every Thursday at the Jack Robinson Studio down on Huey and South Main called the Speak Easy. It was an
When I founded Hattiloo, we actually did plays, comedy, spoken words and concerts. We actually took the Speak Easy back. So the things that really pushed me to do Hattiloo weren’t my own ambitions as a playwright but it was more as a general service for the community atlarge. Ekundayo Bandele
event that brought people from various artistic disciplines together to perform at a montage concert. The event became so popular you couldn’t get in 20 minutes after the doors opened. The audiences were extremely diverse racially, socially and economically. Jackie and Michael really started to push me on this black theatre.
CM: Did you think there would be an audience and support for it? EB: Clearly an audience out there wanted to see something of a conversion of different art forms. So when I founded Hattiloo, we actually did plays, comedy, spoken words and concerts. We actually took the Speak Easy back. So the things that really pushed me to do Hattiloo weren’t my own ambitions as a playwright but it was more
as a general service for the community at-large. It was my appreciation for the works of August Wilson and others. My wanting to celebrate their work with the community is what really encouraged me to open Hattiloo.
CM: What kind of plays do you prefer? EB: I’m a drama person. I like the heavy thick shows. But I have to watch myself because when I’m putting together our seasons they can become a little too heavy. For instance, this season we just finished “My Raining Black Bottom” by August Wilson, which I love. We produced “Hurt Village” this past October by the Memphis Playwright Katori Hall. But I have to say that we’re about to enter our eighth season and “Hurt Village” is up there as one of my favorites, along with “The Bluest Eye” by Toni Morrison.
CM: Which project are you the most proud of and why? EB: Hattiloo, definitely! It has had such a community impact. With so few iconic things in Memphis for the African-American community to grab hold to, for the black community to say, “this is ours, this is our contribution to our City,” Hattiloo is a place to serve as that place culturally and economically. We are one of the anchors of Overton Square. Hattiloo is having a direct impact that I see almost on a daily basis.
CM: Has it been difficult for you to build this business? EB: At times, but because of support from organizations like Art Memphis, the Tennessee Art Commission, and The Hyde Family Foundation, because of support from them, we’ve grown fiscally every year. The community has just really opened its arms to accepting the programs that Hattiloo has produced. CM: What is the biggest misconception about small theaters? EB: I guess to say that the technical aspects are lacking
iTEEN
Black Girls Code extends its roots to Memphis Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Deidra Shores
F o r AfricanAmerican girls in Memphis, positive things in the world of technology have come to town via Deidra B l a c k Shores G i r l s Code. Credit Nnaemeka Egwuekwe – the Chapter Lead for the Memphis chapter of Black Girls Code (BGC) – with the hook-up. When Egwuekwe found out about the national organization and the opportunities it provides for young girls, he decided to do all he could to bring it to Memphis. The founder of BGC is Kimberly Bryant, a native Memphian. Egwuekwe contacted her and made a successful pitch for a Memphis chapter. Two sold-out workshops speak to the need for the local chapter. Bryant told me that she had been working in corporate America for many years and nursing a desire to start her own company when the idea for BGC took root. The idea began to evolve as she went to numerous conventions and workshops and noticed that there were few African Americans – and particularly women – in attendance. Meanwhile, her daughter was developing a an intense interest in the computer and Bryant wanted her to get more out of the days and nights he spent on it. So, mother enrolled daughter in a weeklong computer programming class. While her daughter loved the class,
Kimberly Bryant (left), founder of the Black Girls Code, and a teacherʼs assistant guide a student seeking to advance in the world of technology. (Courtesy photo)
Bryant observed that she was one of only three girls in it – and the only African American. Something needed to be done. An organization was needed to give young black girls some of the same opportunities available to others. BGC was launched in 2011. Black Girls Code, she said, is about “finding the next generation of talent that resides in our girls of color, and giving them the motivation and con-
fidence plus technical skills to know that they can do and become anything they want.” The goal? The girls mentored by Black Girls Code becoming the leaders and change makers of tomorrow in the world of technology.
(For more information about Black Girls code, visit /www.blackgirlscode.com/.) (Deidra Shores is the iTeen Reporter for The New TriState Defender.)
in comparison to its larger counterparts. We have incredible lighting systems, sound systems and great sets. But because we are in a storefront theatre some people may think that the technical aspects of our production would not be as good as some of our competitors. CM: Where are you located now? EB: We are on Marshall Avenue right down the street from Sun Studio.
CM: Tell us about the theatre’s relocation to Union and Monroe? EB: We will be right across the street from Playhouse on the Square. We’re going to be breaking ground within the next 45 days. It’s a beautiful building. It has two theatres in it, with a lobby that’s almost as big as the theatre we are in now…. We are going to have a festival of performances to launch the opening of the new theatre. We are almost done with a four million dollar campaign. We have raised a good deal of money from the black community for this venture even though historically the African-American community doesn’t have a reputation of being very philanthropic outside of an individual’s church home or maybe St. Jude or United Way. We’re (just) shy of reaching the four-million dollars (mark), which means that we will move into the building with absolutely no debt. We are very confident that we will make-up the little short fall that we have right now.
(For additional information, visit www.Hattiloo.org.) (Contact Carlee McCullough, Esq., at 5308 Cottonwood Road, Suite 1A, Memphis, TN 38118, or email her at jstce4all@aol.com.)
Page 5
Stay informed, make www.tsdmemphis.com your home page
RELIGION
Page 6
Tri-State Defender
April 25 - May 1, 2013
LIVING THE LIFE I LOVE
Tired of the clutter? How about some help?
Dear Lucy: My husband works evenings and I work days. We have 3 very busy school age children. I pick them up from school, help with homework, take them to events, cook and clean. Our house always looks like a tornado struck it. My husband helps out by cooking and washing. But we are both exhausted. I have a friend who wants to clean house for me but my husband says we can’t spend money on that. It wouldn’t be much and I am tempted to just pay for it and do it anyway! I am so tired all the time. What do you think? – Living in Chaos
Dear Mrs. Chaos: I cannot tell you what to do but I can share some insight. The good news is that you and your husband are a team. Ideas that we are taught about money by our own parents can get in the way of good decisions. Maybe your husband was taught that paying someone to clean for you is not a good use of money. Or maybe he believes that it is “uppity,” or maybe he is OK with the chaos. First of all, children learn about money, responsibility and work ethic at home. If you guys are fighting over this, the kids are learning from you how to value time, work, money and priorities. A first task would be to make sure that the things that your children can do to pick up behind themselves and participate in housekeeping are being done. Order is a prime rule of the universe and God. It
starts at home. What are the priorities in your lives? Preparing good hot meals, having clean clothes, helping with homework, and taking your children to participate in character and skill building activities are all great priorities. Presenting Lucy an agreeable, united Shaw and loving relationship for your kids to see is also important. Ask yourself why all of this is important for your family’s future. Now weigh that against the smaller cost of paying your friend to help with the housecleaning. Your friend gets to earn extra money, you get more time, rest and freedom to be fully present for your husband and children and you can let go of the resentment and sense of failure because you cannot do everything! When viewed this way, the solution to pay for help becomes much easier. Once your friend helps you to bring the cleanliness and order to your home that you crave, you can insure that your children do their part to help maintain that order. The time that you and your husband spent talking about it and being frustrated can now be spent doing something that brings lasting value to your relationship and your home.
Many of us have never learned the value of clearly setting our life goals and purpose or simply knowing what we really want out of life. Decision-making is much easier when we know what it is we truly want to experience in life. When we know that, we have something to weigh our decisions against. Then we can ask “will paying someone to help with the housework help take us closer to what we really want for ourselves and our children?” A wonderful scripture regarding this is Luke 13:28...”for which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth down first and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?” The tower of your own lives and those of your children is the building you have set out to erect. Count the cost and choose your expenditures wisely so that you can finish the job with joy. Lucy (You can watch Lucy on Channel 17 (Comcast) every Thursday at 10:30 am. (Send your questions to her by U.S. mail to: Heartworks4U, LLC; 4646 Poplar Ave. Ste 201, Memphis, TN 38117 or by e-mail to lucy@heartworks4u.com. Get your free gift at http://www.heartworks4u.com/) (For help with the feelings that get in the way of prayer and peace of mind, get Lucy’s new book, “BE NOT ANXIOUS.” Order it directly from her at 901-9070260 or from her website.)
Wedding bells celebration at Cornerstone MBC
Mississippi Boulevard Christian Churchʼs new first lady, Bridgett Turner.
At Cornerstone Missionary Baptist Church, 765 South Parkway East, Dr. Eugene Henson serves as pastor, and on Sunday (April 28), there will be a celebration of the 45th Wedding Anniversary of Dr. Henson and his wife, Barbara. The special guests for the 3 p.m. celebration are Dr. Elliot Shelton Sr. and Promise Land Baptist Church. For more information, call 901-503-9882.
Tea with the new first lady at The Blvd. by Deborah Powell Alexander dpowell@tri-statedefender.com
DEADLINE
Deadline for all religion articles is Monday, 5 p.m. Send items to Tri-State Defender, 203 Beale St., Suite 200; Memphis, TN 38103, Email items to editorial@ tri-state defender.com. C a l l (901) 523-1818 for details.
The Womenʼs Ministry of Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church welcomed first lady Bridgett Turner with an afternoon tea. From left standing: Minister Carla Norton, Dernita Brassell, Minister Virzola Law, First Lady Bridgett Turner and SA Pastor Denise Bell. Seated: Lauren Norton with Josiah Turner. (Photos: Deborah Powell Alexander)
Heartfelt…
The Rev. Luther Williams of New Mt. Zion Baptist Church hosted a combination retirement and 60th birthday celebration for his wife, Clara Williams, on April 13, at the Airport Hotel. Mrs. Williams, who has been challenged by health problems recently, expressed her appreciation to her husband and all who have been supporting her. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)
The Women’s Ministry at Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church welcomed the new first lady, Bridgett Nicole Turner, at an afternoon tea at the church on Saturday (April 20th). The tea was attended by 300-plus ladies adorned in their finest. First lady Turner says she loves to dress-up. She requested the attendees wear hats, pearls and gloves. The MBCC Fellowship Hall was decorated in spring colors. From the bow-covered chairs to draped-tables dressed with pearls, the setting was fit for a queen. There were myriad presentations, including one from Turner’s sorority (Delta Sigma
PRAISE CONNECT
Theta), singing, dancing and a very special gift – a gorgeous hat and matching purse. The occasion coincided with Turner’s birthday. After the birthday song, she was jokingly treated to a birthday cake bearing the pink and green colors of Alpha Kappa Alpha. The Men’s Ministry joined the gathering as waiters and servers. Turner recently moved to Memphis with her husband, the Rev. Jason Lawrence Turner, who delivered his first official sermon at Mississippi Boulevard on Easter Sunday, March 31. The first lady gave birth to their first child, Josiah, in January. A graduate of Fisk University and the University of Tennessee, College of Law, she is a former assistant district attorney, having served in Nassau County, N.Y.
-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
HEALTH
April 25 - May 1, 2013
CHEF TIMOTHY
For the grill: A spicy lentil cauliflower burger by Chef Timothy Moore
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
It’s almost time to fire up the barbecue grill. But don’t brag to your family and friends that you’re the master chef until you’ve tried makthe Dr. Timothy ing spicy lentil Moore c a u l i flower burger – totally different in taste than the hamburgers and golden fries we are accustomed to eating. With this burger, we hope to recapture those flavors – or more succulent flavors – that tantalize the taste buds. However, we’re going to prepare the spicy lentil cauliflower burger in a non-fattening way. The burger world is changing with the introduction of more fatty and greasy burgers that are often promoted as healthy. As consumers, we must consider our overall health and the high rate of obesity linked to our consumption of fast food. Some of the burgers at several fast food chains may contain as many as 770 calories per burger. They also contain up to two grams of fat, which is the entire daily intake recommended by the American Heart Association. Still, we all love to eat those hot juicy burgers fresh off the grill, even though the trans fat in them can adversely affect the cardiovascular system. Although we look for good taste, the impact that food has on our bodies and our lifestyles can either cause detriment or build good health.
It’s amazing how small dietary changes can have a great impact on our lives and reverse our health problems. This year, let’s start by making the best food selection whenever possible. Let’s serve meals that taste good and are also good for the body. In that context I suggest the spicy lentil California burger served with cauliflower potatoes and a spring salad with fresh herbs. This meal tastes as good as it looks. It’s easy to prepare and fun to eat. It’s sure to become a favorite with everyone all year round.
Spicy Lentil Cauliflower Burger Ingredients: Makes 6-8 medium-sized burgers 1/2 cup dried whole red or brown lentils (If dried beans and soaking are not available: purchase two 15 oz. cans of lentils using 1.5 cups only.) 2 cups water 1/2-teaspoon garlic powder or 2-3 cloves minced garlic 1/2-teaspoon spices/spice mix of choice or Mrs. Dash 1/2 head of cauliflower grated 2 tablespoons whole-wheat flour or Almond flour 2-tablespoon onion flakes 1/2-teaspoon cumin powder 1/4-teaspoon chili powder to taste 1/2-teaspoon garlic powder Read recipe twice before making.
Burgers: Soak the dry lentils for about an hour. Wash and rinse, drain. (Or use 1.5 cups of cooked lentils.) Place in pot. Cook on low/medium, partially covered for half an hour, stirring occasionally until easily squished. Drain, cover and set aside. Grate the cauliflower with a food processor. Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 400 degrees for 12-15 minutes until the cauliflower begins to get crisp and golden.
Place in large bowl. Add cooked red lentils and all spices and mix well. Mash slightly. Taste and adjust the spices. Add flour; mix until mixture easily comes together. (Add 1 TBS flour as needed) Make burger patties. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes at 400 degrees F. The patties can be made ahead and kept refrigerated. Serve on whole grain buns or on a bed of lettuce or fresh kale. Top with all your favorites. Enjoy and Share!
Cauliflower Potatoes: 1 large head of cauliflower washed. Break the cauliflower into small bite-size pieces. Spread on a baking sheet on parchment paper. Bake at 400 degrees F for 25 minutes. Remove from oven. Sprinkle with your favorite spices. Enjoy. Spring Salad with Fresh Herbs Will make 6-8 servings 1 head of Romain lettuce 1 red leaf lettuce, 1 red onion sliced 1/2 cup chopped carrots 1 cup of cherries tomatoes 1/2 red bell pepper sliced 1/2 cup sliced or shredded zucchini 1/2 cup of fresh rosemary, dill, basil leaf chopped up Mix all the ingredients and toss in a large bowl. Add your favorite no-fat dressing. (I squeeze fresh lemon juice as my dressing. So delicious. Enjoy!
(Dr. Timothy Moore can be reached at cheftimothy@cheftimothy moore.com, visit him at www.cheftimothy moore.com or follow him at www.twitter.com/cheftimmoore.)
Film shines light on autism and public awareness need Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Deidra Shores
April is Autism Awareness Month and many people misunderstand or just don’t know about the lives of children diagnosed with autism. Shannon King Nash is on a mission to turn that around. Nash’s 14-year-old son has autism. She is the creator of “Color My Mind,” a groundbreaking documentary on autism awareness. The film features five mothers of autistic children and provides a glimpse of their journey to overcome the challenges their children face. At one point, Nash felt as though she was the only person in the world – especially in the African-American community – dealing with such a situation. She would go to autism-support groups and not see many African-American people. Knowing that autism doesn’t exclusively attack any one racial group, she couldn’t figure out why people of color where so uninformed – or just didn’t want to accept it. For Nash it seemed clear: more could be done for the children if people knew more and were willing to help. Autism is a neurological dis-
order that is on a spectrum. Some are high on the spectrum and are high functioning; some are low functioning, usually nonverbal, and aren’t able to take care of themselves. Many factors and signs point to autism, such as a lack of eye contact and an inability to respond to social queues that determine how high or low an individual is on the spectrum. Nash’s son had a problem making eye contact. He experienced sensory issues, with heightened sensitivity to light and the sun. He would run and scream when the sun hit him. Also, he was significantly behind in things most children his age should be doing. He was afraid of things that would normally amaze other children. For example, the waves of the ocean would startle him, as would the way fallen leaves create a miniature tornado-type motion when the wind blows them. For children with autism, things are very organized and literal. Nash’s son had an obsession with lining up toy cars and would lose his cool when the order was disrupted. Nash wants people to receive her film as an honest portrayal of the lives of families and children challenged
by the disorder. “This isn’t a sugarcoated high school film about Autism,” she said. “This was the real deal.” The film was seven years in the making. The project started with 10 moms. Half dropped out –fearful of being open about the topic and of their families being in the spotlight. Nash’s mission is to let people know that autism is a big deal in our community. We need to help our children and we can do this by educating ourselves, she says. She also advises those who are not affected by Autism to have a heightened sense of awareness for those dealing with it. Among school-age children, 1 in 50 have autism. And two out of every three people know someone with – or affected by – autism. Experience has been an effective teacher for Nash. She knows that if you start supporting affected children while they are young and get involved in autism groups, you can help the children in the long run. (View the trailer for “Color My Mind” at: h t t p : / / w w w. y o u t u b e . c o m / watch?v=tNgbEHy03tg.)
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ENTERTAINMENT Tri-State Defender, Thursday, April 25 - May 1, 2013, Page 8
WHAT’S HAPPENING MYRON?
Africa in April – back and better!
The 2013 Africa in April poster – created by Jerome Brown – was unveiled at the Withers Collection Museum & Gallery (April 18). (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)
Friday (April 19) was Children and Seniorʼs Day at the Africa in April Cultural Awareness Festival. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)
Sunday (April 21) at Africa in April was International Music Day with jazz, gospel, blues, reggae and world sounds. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley) It was another year of music, food and fun as the Annual Africa in April Cultural Awareness Festival celebrated its 27th year of “cultural awareness.” The weather was even good and gave us all a chance to enjoy every bit of this year’s fest (April 18-21) at Robert R. Church Park in the Beale Street District. This year’s festival showcased the Republic of Senegal. It was a great opportunity to learn about other cultures and I took full advantage of it. As always, music and entertainment took center stage. I got the chance to participate this year, announcing some of the performers on the main stage on Sunday, International Music Day. Myriad genres were represented and the crowd seemed pleased with its choices, from gospel to hip hop. There were drummers from Africa and a lot of other performances you just don’t get to see every day.
Of course, the festival would not be complete without such products as shea butter, black soap and some really beautiful African gear to add to your wardrobe. Food choices stretched for almost as far as the eye could see, Myron with the options inMays cluding various forms of fish and chicken and cuisine native to Africa. In addition to the music, arts and crafts, education and fashion, this year’s focus on economics was most notable. A wealth of opportunities exists on the African continent for small and minority businesses here in the Unites States. That was one of areas focused on during the International
Entrepreneur’s Business and Economic Luncheon held on Wednesday (April 17) at the Holiday Inn-University of Memphis. Executive Director David L. Acey Sr. said festival organizers are looking to bridge the gap between busi-
ness owners in Greater Memphis and business owners and government entities in Africa. (Got an event you’d like for me to cover or attend? Email me at Myron@whatshappeningmyron.com).
The 2013 version of the annual Africa in April parade was held on Friday (April 19). (Photo: Shirley Jackson)
Mike Tyson: The ‘Scary Movie 5’ interview Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Kam Williams
Inside the ring, “Iron Mike” Tyson ruled and struck fear in opponents during his prime. Outside the ring, Michael Gerard Tyson has weathered a host of woes and controversies, ranging from allegations of spousal abuse to a rape conviction to the death of his 4-year-old daughter, Exodus, to declaring bankruptcy after frittering away over $300 million in prizefight purses. Today, he is a very happily-married man, with a couple of children, Milan and Morocco, by his third wife, Kiki. He is currently on a 36city tour of the country in “Undisputed Truth,” a one-man Broadway show that is part comedy/part confessional and covers all of the above and more. Here, the pugilist-turned-actor talks about his latest movie, “Scary Movie 5,” co-starring a rogues gallery of controversial celebrities, including Charlie Sheen, Lindsay Lohan, Katt Williams and Snoop Dogg.
Kam Williams: Hi Mike, thanks for the interview. Mike Tyson: What’s up, Kam? KW: I really appreciate your taking the time to speak with me. MT: It’s all good in the ’hood, my friend.
KW: Ray Hirschman asks: “What interested you in Scary Movie 5?” MT: Whew! It’s a franchise that’s going to last ’til the end of time. I wanted to be involved with that. I don’t care how silly it comes across. It’s more so for us than for kids. It’s adults acting stupid and silly.
KW: What was it like working with this cast? MT: Everybody was great. Ashley (Tisdale) was awesome. I got an autographed picture of her for my niece.
KW: Children’s book author Irene Smalls asks: “How did you get into acting?” MT: Just from messing around with a friend, Jim Toback, the director of “The Pickup Artist.” I always used to see him in New York and talk
to him when I was younger, like a teenager. Anthony Michael Hall brought me onto the set of one day in about ’86, and Jim and I became acquainted and then good friends, and he started putting me into his movies, first “Black and White,” and then we did “Tyson.” He thought I was an interesting character. After that, I did “The Hangover” and got bitten by the acting bug. I have a lot of friends who’ve won Oscars, and they started telling me I could do it, too. …
KW: Larry Greenberg says: “When we talk about comedy, you hear words that could refer to boxing like ‘timing’ and ‘punch line.’ Do you see any similarities between the two?” MT: I don’t know. People tell me I’m a comedian, but I don’t approach acting from that perspective. I do know that everything in life has to do with your timing and perception. You have to be comfortable with the rhythm that you’re in. You can’t just jump into a fast rhythm if yours is slow. You might have to pick up the pace but in your own particular way. It has to do with personality, too.
KW: Richie the intern was wondering how the play’s coming along? MT: We’ve been doing just great, selling out every night. And I couldn’t believe the reviews. I couldn’t believe it was me they were talking about. They’re saying “Remarkably funny!” and “Moving!” I was like “They’re talking about me?” The biggest honor I had so far was when the comedian Jeff Ross told me he liked it and said, “You’re one of us, now.” That was just amazing. … KW: Harriet Pakula-Teweles says: “Champ – you’ve had a long and varied career that involved lots of press coverage. What’s the thing you’d most have us remember about you?” MT: Overcoming my adversities. KW: When you look in the mirror, what do you see? MT: Me? I see an old, broke-ass black guy taking care of a bunch of kids, living life, taking them to school, and all that stuff, who’s asking himself: “What the hell is this?” But I wouldn’t give it up for the world because I love my wife. I never expected to have a life like this.
No chaos… no confusion… no lawsuits… no violence… no going to jail. …
KW: Lastly, if you could have one wish instantly granted, what would that be for? MT: That my daughter could still be with us. KW: My condolences, Mike. Thanks again, and best of luck with all your endeavors. MT: Thank you, Kam. OK, brother.
ENTERTAINMENT
Tri-State Defender
Page 9
April 25 - May 1, 2013
APRIL 25 – MAY 1, 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 26, 2013
BIG BUDGET FILMS
“The Big Wedding” (R for profanity, sexuality and brief nudity) Hollywood remake of Mon Frère se Marie, the French farce about a long-divorced couple (Robert De Niro and Diane Keaton) pressured to pretend they’re still happily married at the wedding of their adopted son (Ben Barnes) when his conservative birth mother (Patricia Rae), a devout Catholic from Colombia, unexpectedly decides to attend. Ensemble includes Susan Sarandon, Katherine Heigl, Robin Williams, Amanda Seyfried and Topher Grace. (In English and Spanish with subtitles)
“Kon-Tiki” (PG-13 for violence) Seafaring adventure recreating Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl’s (Pal Sverre Hagen) 4,000mile voyage via raft across the Pacific in 1947 proving it was possible that South Americans had migrated to Polynesia in preColumbian times. With Anders Baasmo Christiansen, Gustaf Skarsgard and Tobias Santelmann.
“Pain & Gain” (R for graphic nudity, bloody violence, crude sexuality, drug use and pervasive profanity) Michael Bay directed this action-oriented crime comedy chronicling the real-life exploits of a trio of bodybuilders (Dwayne Johnson, Mark Wahlberg and Anthony Mackie) whose scheme to kidnap a wealthy businessman (Tony Shalhoub) for ransom goes horribly wrong. Cast includes Dr. Ken Jeong, Ed Harris, Rebel Wilson and Rob Corddry.
INDEPENDENT & FOREIGN FILMS
“Arthur Newman” (Unrated) Midlife crisis dramedy about a depressed, recently-divorced man (Colin Firth) who fakes his own death and assumes a new identity before taking to the road where he becomes beguiled by a kleptomaniac (Emily Blunt) he finds passed out at a seedy motel. Support cast features Anne Heche, Autumn Dial and David Andrews. “At Any Price” (R for profanity and graphic sexuality) Prodigal Son saga about the rebellious offspring (Zac Efron) of a struggling farmer (Dennis Quaid) who’d rather pursue his dream of becoming a race car driver than try to save the family business by following in his father’s footsteps. With Heather Graham, Maika Monroe and Red West. “Graceland” (Unrated) Filipino crime
Anthony Mackie in “Pain and Gain.” (Photo: Mark Fellman/Paramount Pictures)
thriller about a corrupt politician’s (Menngie Cobarrubias) chauffeur (Arnold Reyes) forced to take the law into his own hands after ruthless mobsters kidnap his daughter (Ella Guevara) for ransom. With Leon Miguel, Dido De La Paz and Marife Necesito. (In Tagalog with subtitles) “King’s Faith” (PG-13 for violence, drug use and mature themes) Christian-themed morality play about the challenges faced by a former gang member (Crawford Wilson) when his troubled past comes to threaten his newfound commitment to faith, family and a better future. Supporting cast includes Lynn Whitfield, James McDaniel, Kayla Compton and Kristen Royal.
“Midnight’s Children” (Unrated) Screen adaptation of the Salman Rushdie best-seller, set in Mumbai on Independence Day in 1947, following the contrasting fates of babies switched at birth, one (Satya Bhabha), born to a lowly beggar, the other (Siddharth Narayan), to a prominent family. Featuring Shahana Goswami, Rajat Kapoor and Ronit Roy. (In English, Hind and Urdu)
“Mud” (PG-13 for violence, profanity, sexual references, smoking and mature themes) Mathew McConaughey stars in this fugitive drama set on an uninhabited island in the Mississippi River about a couple of 14 year-olds (Tye Sheridan and Jacob Lofland) who try to help a man wanted for murder elude bounty hunters so he can reunite with his the love of his life (Reese Witherspoon). With Sam Shepard, Michael Shannon and
HOROSCOPES
Joe Don Baker.
“An Oversimplification of Her Beauty” (Unrated) Animated romantic comedy revolving around an optimistic artist’s reaction to being stood up by an intriguing young woman he was hoping to date. Voice cast includes Terence Nance, Namik Minter, Chanelle Pearson and Shante Cozier. “Paradise: Love” (Unrated) First installment of a trilogy directed by Ulrich Seidl revolving around a 50 year-old, Austrian sex tourist’s (Magarete Tiesel) trip to Kenya where she plans to spend her vacation sleeping with young African men. Co-starring Peter Kazungu, Inge Maux and Dunja Sowinetz.(In German, Swahili and English with subtitles)
“The Reluctant Fundamentalist” (R for profanity, violence and brief sexuality) Mira Nair (Monsoon Wedding) directed this adaptation of Moshin Hamid’s novel of the same name about a Pakistani Princeton graduate (Riz Ahmed) working on Wall Street who, in the wake of a hostage crisis, finds himself torn between the American Dream and the call of his homeland. With Kate Hudson, Kiefer Sutherland and Liev Schreiber. “Tai Chi Hero” (Unrated) Historical biopic about martial arts master Yang Lu Chan (Yuan Xiaochao) who founded Tai Chi in the 19th Century. With Qi Shu, Tony Leung and Angelababy. (In Mandarin with subtitles)
ARIES If you feel blessed this week, don’t be surprised. With last week’s soul vibration you were able to see a wonderful truth about yourself. Did you look? If you did, then this week that truth will shine in everything you do. TAURUS You may feel a bit frustrated that some of the miscellaneous items from your “to do” list reappear for this week. Chill. Find ways to exert excess stress positively. Everything you need to get done will be done. You’ve got what it takes! GEMINI The sincere emotions that should have flowed through you last week will begin to glow more brightly. No matter what the emotions were, you can find the good in them this week. If you have to search deeply, do so. The good is there in abundance. CANCER Energy is higher than it was last week. You might feel like the sunshine inside yourself provides blinding light. Walk into it. There are no dangers. Put dark glasses on your soul vibrations and be cool. This day is too light, too bright. LEO You might get negative answers to an important question this week so you should have a backup plan. And you should know that in the long run it is better that the answer was not yes. Be daring! Make efforts to move beyond your comfort zone. You’ll be glad you did. VIRGO Don’t waste your shine on solitude. Get out and let other people see it. The cheerfulness that should have come into your life last week is looking for places to express. Find them. Your winning ways can win big this week. LIBRA You like to shine. Everyone might not know it but you like to be a little superficial and playful. That side of your soul vibration is pleading for expression this week. Listen to the plea. Give it a chance but be careful of the sensitive feelings of those who experience you in another way. SCORPIO Some say optimism is fantasy. Suppose the good thing you’re optimistic about never comes. This week you’ll know that the joy of anticipating it is joy enough. Just the certainty of coming goodness is present goodness. The joy of tomorrow is available this week. SAGITTARIUS The joy that you get from good results can make you a hero this week. Others will easily see how valuable your soul vibration is to them. It will be easy for them to see why they are glad they know you. Feel pride in your ability to move towards distant goals. CAPRICORN Did you enjoy what flowed in last week? Tell someone about it. Sure you like to gossip. So what. Enjoy going over in conversation what you enjoyed in consciousness last week. Did you make the consciousness into reality? You could have. You still can. AQUARIUS Well enough of being satisfied and being still and letting the wealth inside yourself be your joy. Spend some of that wealth. Get into your real bank account. Use some hard cash and buy something to make you look as good as you feel. PISCES You find that waiting pays off, doesn’t it. Now is a better time to charge ahead. Good communication is favored. You’ll be more convincing. Love is easier. Business is easier. People give approval in ways that they would not have last week. Source: NNPA News Service
COMMUNITY
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Tri-State Defender
April 25 - May 1, 2013
U.S. Black Chamber president To keynote Benny Awards
Ron Busby, president of the U.S. Black Chamber, Inc., will be the keynote speaker at the 2013 Annual Benny Awards Lucheon sponsored by the Black Business Association of Memphis (BBA). BENNY is an acronym for Black Entrepreneurship and Networking Need You. The BENNY Awards recognize “superior achievement in business by minority- and womenowned businesses and by supportive corporations.” The luncheon event will be held on June 21st at the Memphis Marriott, 2625 Thousand Oaks Blvd., from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The U.S. Black Chamber is a non-profit organization that services Black Business owners. It is built upon “Five Pillars of Service” – Advocacy, Access to Capital, Contracting, Entrepreneur Training and Chamber Development. Busby, a successful business owner himself, grew his first business, USA SuperClean, from $150,000 annual revenue to over $15 million. A native of Oakland, Calif., by way of Houston, Busby has led and served on many boards and committees, including the XL II Super Bowl
Host Committee CoChair, Arizona Governor ’s African American Leadership Council, The Greater Phoenix Ron Chamber Busby of Comm e r c e Board of Directors, President of the 100 Black Men (Bay Area Chapter), the Urban League, and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. The BENNY Awards are held annually to honor service and retail businesses, corporations and business professionals who have “reached new heights, provided exemplary service, business opportunities, or leadership to further the vision of minority entrepreneurship, empowerment, business development or community service.” The BBA of Memphis is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization founded in 1974. It is supported by the City of Memphis Department of Housing and Community Development.
BRIEFS & THINGS
Bestselling author Eric Jerome Dickey booked for Southwest stop
New York Times bestselling author Eric Jerome Dickey will visit Southwest Tennessee Community College on May 1 as part of a nine-city book tour promoting his latest novel. Dickey, who is a Memphis native, will read some of his work and sign his most recent novel, “Decadence,” from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Southwest’s Macon Cove Campus in the Farris Building, Farris Auditorium, room 1201. The author of 19 novels, Dickey also penned a six-issue miniseries of graphic novels for Marvel Enterprises, featuring “Storm (X-Men)” and “The Black Panther.” “Dickey now lives on the road and rests in whatever hotel will have him,” said his publicist. Dickey is the 2012 Black Expressions male author of the year.
Bank On Memphis event at Court Square April 26
Bank On Memphis’ celebration of National Financial Literacy Month culminates Friday (April 26) with a series of financial literacy workshops at Court Square downtown. Several Bank On Memphis partner financial institutions and credit counseling services will discuss savings and checking account options, as well as tips for credit repair. The National Foundation for Credit Counseling recently released the results of its annual Consumer Financial Literacy Survey noting that only 40 percent of adults have a budget and track spending. Research from credit data management firm TransUnion Interactive Inc. shows that the Memphis metro area had the lowest consumer credit score among major metropolitan areas. The April 26 event is being held in conjunction with the Downtown Memphis Commission’s Downtown Alive! The Rain date is May 3. Entertainment at Downtown Alive! will include artists from Overwater Entertainment between 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m. The Memphis Public Library’s JobLINC Mobile Career Center will be on-site. Bank On Memphis provides financial literacy and financial access through a public, private and non-profit collaboration. Memphis Mayor A C Wharton Jr. and Shelby County Trustee David Lenoir launched the program locally.
Man of the House makes Birmingham connection
The Fifth Annual Man of the House Mentoring event is scheduled for Father’s Day weekend (June 15), with 200 young men from Memphis
traveling to the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and other historic locations in the city. Founder Tony Nichelson said two registration dates are scheduled before the June event. For the past four years, Man of the House Mentoring has hosted its Father’s Day event for 110 boys being raised in single-parent homes. The event pairs participants with 75 successful men for a day of fellowship, civil rights history and hands-on skills development. With major renovations underway at the National Civil Rights Museum this summer, Nichelson said the event will be held in Birmingham and will be part of the launch of “The Birmingham Crusade: Memphis Mission.” The five-year initiative is designed to re-awaken young urban men - primarily in Middle Schools - to recent history, especially in light of 2013 being the 50th Anniversary of several historic evens associated with the civil rights movement. The general public is invited to register young men between the ages of 14-17, from singleparent homes, to be a part of the initiative. Contact Nichelson at ‘manofthehousementoring@gmail.com, or call 901336-2399.
From Pre-K to Pre-Cal, the professionals at Math Made Simple, Etc. help students of all ages overcome their anxiety and excel in mathematics. (Courtesy photo)
Math Made Simple ready to kick fear at summer camp Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Kati Thomas
2 + 2 = 4. Math isn’t always that simple, but with the help of trusted instructors math can be made simple. From Pre-K to Pre-Cal, the professionals at Math Made Simple, Etc. have a track record of helping students of all ages overcome their anxiety and excel in mathematics. The tutoring and solutions center teaches an array of innovative techniques to empower and equip students to make better grades and pass standardized tests. But, that’s not all – tutoring in English, Language Arts, and Reading is also available. “We help students to get better grades and better test scores, and that’s our promise,” said Cornelius Barnes, owner and operator of Math Made Simple. “I think that kids struggle with Algebra the most because they don’t understand the transition from 1, 2, 3 to an ‘X’. There is a big disconnect between the two. Math Made Simple has come up
with formulas and ideas to help bridge those gaps.” Youth ages 4-15 can bridge the gap to academic success at the new Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Summer Success Camp from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 27. Located at the Math Made Simple Center (7189 Stage Road), the affordable camp offers kids a chance to learn basic math skills, forming a solid foundation for building successful careers. “We have 5th graders doing Algebra, when traditionally a 9th grader does Algebra, so we are four years ahead of the game,” said Barnes. Students who enroll in the program’s Summer Math Camp can expect to stay ahead of the game. With two camps to choose from, students can enjoy educational fun during a four-week summer camp from May 28-June 21, or an eight-week camp May 28-July 19. The cost for the four-week camp is $145 weekly, plus a $75 enrollment fee. Students wishing to extend their summer of learning can attend the eight-week
mathematics camp at a reduced rate of $120 per week, plus a $75 enrollment fee. Payment plans are available for both camps. “One of the reasons that Math Made Simple is so affordable is so students can receive the help they need on an ongoing basis. We made it affordable so students can attend year-round,” Barnes said. “The problem won’t fix itself. You have to take the proactive approach.” In addition to renewed confidence, each day students will receive two healthy and balanced meals and snacks, which consist of waffles, hot and cold cereal, pastries, fresh fruit, juice, and more. Field trips are also included, along with six hours of daily instruction on math, English, Science, and technology. Parents who take advantage of the offer will receive a free subscription to Parent Intelligence Software offered by BeanStalk Company. The three-month trial equips parents with tools to look into their children’s cyber worlds and monitor their online activity.
Barnes said the true value of Math Made Simple summer camps cannot be weighed in dollars or cents. “This isn’t about money; it’s about helping your child. It’s about making a difference,” he says to parents. Still on the fence? Barnes said the proof of the program’s success can be seen in several of its instructors. “The tutors here were once my students. Now they’ve gone, gotten their degrees, and come back to be a part of Math Made Simple because they are our legacy. They believe in the product because they are the product,” said Barnes. “We’ve already shown that we can do this. Now, we just need your support.”
(For more information on Math Made Simple and how you can enroll your child, visit www.mathmsimple.com or email info@mathmsimple .com. To get free tickets to the STEM Summer Success Kickoff or the BeanStalk Business Launch, visit http://mmscamp.eventbrite .com.)
Craigmont shines in EPA competition
Craigmont High School was a top finisher in the Environmental Protection Agency’s third-annual Energy Star National Building Competition. The school was recognized for reducing their energy use by over a 34 percent. The competition featured teams from across the country to improve energy efficiency, lower utility costs, and protect public health and the environment. More than 3,000 schools, businesses and government buildings competed to see which could reduce its energy use the most in one year. Together, competitors of this year’s National Building Competition cut their energy costs by more than $50 million, saved more than three billion kBtus of energy, and reduced annual greenhouse gas emissions equal to the amount of electricity used by more than 43,000 homes.
BRIEFLY: Freedom Preparatory Charter School, 5132 Jonetta Street, is now enrolling sixth and seventh grade students for the 2013-14 school year. On Thursday (April 25) at 5:30 p.m., school administrators and faculty members will hold a family information session for parents and caregivers to learn more about enrollment benefits, academic offerings and student enrichment activities. For more details, call 901259-5959 or visit www.freedomprep.org to apply online.
Grooving with River City…
The River City Chapter of The Links Incorporated held its 2013 “Grooving with River City” fundraiser and 20th Anniversary Celebration, including The Facets Awards, at Esplanade Memphis last Saturday (April 20). Pictured (l-r): Deborah Harris, George Monger, Karen Denise Moore, Dr. Jesse McGee, Dr. Inetta F. Rogers (President), the Rev. Marlon Foster, Yvonne Acey and Michelle Fowlkes. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)
Straight talk…
ʻIʼm Not Having a Baby Showerʼ – A Sexual Health and Wellness Conference for Shelby County Teens was held last Saturday (April 20) at Wooddale High School. The morning panel discussion featured (l-r) Shelby County Commissioner Henri Brooks, Yolanda Gates, Rubbie King and Nicole Becton Odom. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)
NEWS
Tri-State Defender
Page 11
April 25 - May 1, 2013
Marc Gasol’s ‘D’ secures Defensive Player of the Year
In the NBA, good defense is team defense, with each individual committed to doing his part. Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol knows that and he demonstrated it consistently throughout the 2012-13 season. On Wednesday, Gasol was rewarded for doing his part, snaring the 2012-13 Kia NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award. In the history of the Grizzlies’ franchise, he is the first to be so honored. Proof that Gasol “gets it” about good defense came as he accepted the award.
RIDGEWAY
“On behalf of my teammates and our coaching staff, I am grateful to be named the Defensive Player of the Year,” Gasol said. “We had a great season, especially on the defensive end, and that is due to the hard work of everyone involved.” Gasol’s stats start with his size (7-1, 264). He averaged 1.74 blocks per game and was one of six players to average at least 1.50 blocks and 1.00 steals per game. With the big man in the middle, the Grizz defense ranked as the stingiest, surrendering
89.3 points per game, a league low. The Grizzlies are the first NBA team to allow fewer than 90 points per game since the 2005-06 season. According to NBA.com/ Stats, Memphis notched a +7.5 score differential when Gasol was on the floor and -3.9 when he was off the court. A panel of 121 sportswriters and broadcasters throughout the United States and Canada voted on the award, with Gasol garnering 30 first-place votes and 212 points. Miami’s LeBron James (149
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
McClain, who starred at the University of Central Arkansas, was killed by his 19year-old stepson, Dwayne Moore, who shot him multiple times with a .40 caliber weapon, investigators say. Johnathan’s mother, Debra Cook, provided more context. “Prior to that, Overton High School and Ridgeway High School got into a brawl during a basketball game and so many of the players got kicked out of the game,” she recalled. “Johnathan wasn’t one of them, so he was able to stay in the game and help his team win. We virtually had just JV players on the court, but still won. “So following that was when coach McClain died, and that’s when we all were like ‘we know God has got to have something good in store for us’ because things kept happening.” I wanted to know if this was all leading up to the illegal basketball player being found out by the school administration, actually snitched on by his 35year-old wife. “Yes, I still remember that day, I will never forget it,” Debra Cook said. “It was a strange day. I received a call from Johnathan that day and he said, ‘Mom, we have been disqualified.’ I was like, ‘for what?’ He was really upset trying to explain it to me. I rushed over to the school and it was
A rollercoaster year at Ridgeway High School included a scholarship to The College of Charleston for star guard Johnathan Burroughs-Cook. (Photo: Kelvin Cowans) heart breaking.” She made it into the library and saw all of the coaches, parents and basketball players. “The kids were stretched out on the floor and their moms were on the floor with them, crying and sobbing. They couldn’t believe what was happening. We all felt like they were being punished for some-
thing they hadn’t done.” At that point, Johnathan and his teammates had learned little more than that teammate McKenzie Sewell had been ruled ineligible to play because he was too old. “We were told that we were being disqualified from the playoffs because of it. So while we were crying, a lot of us were like,
points, 18 first-place votes) and Oklahoma City’s Serge Ibaka (122 points, 14 first-place votes) trailed Gasol in the voting. Grizzlies guard Tony Allen (102 points, nine first-place votes) finished fifth and ahead of all backcourt players. Kia Motors America (KMA) will donate a 2014 Kia Sorento LX CUV to Gasol’s charity of choice, Youth Villages, a private nonprofit dedicated to helping thousands of emotionally- and behaviorally-troubled children and their families live successfully.
‘where is he because we want to talk to him, right now.’ But he had disappeared like a ghost. We haven’t seen him since.” Debra Cook was among the parents and supporters who tried to find a way around the disqualification. “These kids had put in the work… and we had four seniors on this team, so this was the end of their high school careers,” she said. “We went to the Board of Education and voiced our concerns, but it didn’t help. I mean, this man came out of nowhere and messed everything up for them. It wasn’t fair. I understood later what the rules stated, but it was still hard. “That man, posing as a student might have scored ten points the entire season and may have played a total of 15 minutes,” she said. “We still don’t even know how old this man was. Now I hear that this man’s wife is looking to write a book about this entire thing and I think that’s just horrible.” I looked around and noticed all the trophies and medals that collectively reflected that Johnathan had been playing ball – and doing it well – for a long time. I wondered if he had been able to cope with all of the distractions and stay focused on his goals. “Yes sir, I have,” he said, introducing me to real-life pillars that had helped him build a foundation for doing just that. “We had a neighbor by the name of Joe Ferby Sr. when I was little who introduced me to
Down 2-0 to the Los Angeles Clippers, the Grizzlies must grit up as the first-round NBA Playoffs series shifts to the FedExForum for games Thursday and Saturday. (Photo: Shirley Jackson) the game of basketball. My mom worked a lot back then, so he really looked out for us and taught me a lot about the game. Then as I grew up, I kept playing through middle school and I originally went to high school over at Kirby High where coach (Roy) Spears was instrumental in my basketball I.Q. and skill set,” said Johnathan. “I want to also add that around the ages of 9 through 15, I played for Lorenzen Wright’s basketball team.” Yes, that Lorenzen Wright, the Memphis basketball legend and NBA stalwart whose killer still has not been found. “And I still haven’t gotten over that either,” said Johnathan. “But yes, Lorenzen Wright looked out for me and sent me to basketball camps and more because he believed that I had a gift. Not just me, he also looked out for a lot of us. “After that I had the opportunity to play on Penny Hardaway’s team and we have traveled all over America playing basketball against some really great talent. In fact I know that the time that I traveled with Penny’s team prepared me for this opportunity I have now by signing with The College of Charleston,” he said. Last Friday (April 19) at the ATOP Church on Riverdale Rd., Johnathan – with family, teammates and other supporters nearby – signed a letter of intent to play basketball at The College of Charleston. “They recruited me in a first
class manner and head coach Doug Wojcik is a family man and I appreciate that because I know that there will be a lot that I will be able to learn from him, on and off the court,” Johnathan said. “He feels a lot like coach Henning. They love you and talk to you like you’re their son and motivate you to be all that you can be.” Johnathan’s senior-season stats were impressive, great combo-guard numbers – 19.5 points, 5.3 assists, and 3.2 rebounds. Will they translate to college? Is he ready to move into a new season of his life? “Do you think that those numbers will translate to college? Are you ready to move into this new season of your life? “I’m so ready to head off to college and see what I can accomplish there,” he said. “I can’t do anything about the things that I didn’t have any control over, but I can do my best at the things that I do.” I decided to cap my time with Johnathan by getting him to engage in some word-association. I started with Ridgeway High School. “Interesting,” he said. ACT? “17” Scholarship? “Blessed.” To hard to deal with? “Nothing!”
(Kelvin Cowans can be reached at (kelvincowans@ hotmail.com.)