5 15 2013

VOL. 62, No. 19

May 9 - 15, 2013

www.tsdmemphis.com

75 Cents

Newark Mayor Cory Booker issues ‘greatness’ challenge besmith@tri-statedefender.com

by Bernal E. Smith II

ʻI challenge this next generation to define greatness on the inside and live their lives in firm allegiance to that unique sense of purpose and greatness.ʼ Newark, N.J. Mayor Cory Booker (Photo: Demarcus Bowser)

‘Who’s the Best Mom in the World?’

Who is Cory Booker?

A graduate of Stanford University, Yale Law School and a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford University, Booker – the mayor of Newark, N.J. – is obviously a brilliant guy.

He is also committed and passionate on the issues and to the betterment of people, living on the equivalent of a food stamp budget to raise awareness for the insecurities that low in-

come families face, shoveling snow from the driveways of constituents, and allowing Hurricane Sandy victims into his home following the devasting impact of the floods in New Jersey.

On this past Friday (May 3), Booker sat down with TSD President and Publisher, Bernal E. Smith II, to talk about his most recent visit to Memphis at Omni Prep Academy Charter School, co-founded by his older brother. Cary Booker. He spent the better portion of two days with the students of Omni Prep, doing what he

seems to do best: sharing, caring and mentoring.

Bernal E. Smith II: Your brother, Cary Booker, runs Omni Prep Academy, a burgeoning charter school here in Memphis. Other than visiting your brother, what was the purpose of your visit to Memphis?

Mayor Cory Booker: I love my older brother and am inspired that he is living a life of purpose and is focusing on what I believe is one of the most important causes of our country, to make sure that every

child has an abundant pathway to nurture their genius and make their contribution, achieve their dreams.

So my brother asked me to come down to the school to be a part of the community for a day and get a chance to talk and engage with the kids. I had a great day, spent some time with them at the school on Friday, and a movie on Saturday. I also got a chance to speak with supporters of the school and thank them for contributing to the vision and work SEE BOOKER ON PAGE 3

Hustle … hustle … hustle … GRIZZ!

In honor of Mother’s Day and in collaboration with “The Loretta McNary Show,” The New Tri-State Defender is showcasing the fifth annual Who’s the Best Mom in the World? essay contest.

The TSD is featuring the winning essays and the moms they highlight as a reflection of the importance of mothers in our community.

Mother: Seble Ross

(Nominated by the Ross family.)

It is a question that can be best answered by her children…who know their Mom is their greatest protector, the wisest of counselors, and affirmative disciplinarian who will continually love and pray for them, through ALL THINGS and IN EVERY

Seble Ross

SEASON. It is a question that can be best answered by her children ….who will always get from their Mom a consoling hug, and a gentle touch for every scrapped knee. And positive words of encouragement for a down casted spirit. All the while ‘Mama, what making them feel would I do safe, by never leavwithout you?’ ing their side when See Opinion, they’re scared and discouraged. page 4.

It is a question that can be best answered by her children …who are being taught by their Mom...Life’s Many Golden Rules, in patiently answering all their countless Why Dos’, Why is’, and “Why Are’ like only she knows how too!

It is a question that can be best answered by her Man. her Husband…. who cherishes his children’s Mom as a Person…Strong, Smart, Passionate, Entertaining, and Generous. Full of Action, Emotion, Hope, Spiritual Devotion, Beauty, Power, Compassion, and Practical Intelligence beyond Compare.

It is a question that can be best answered by her Family…. who sees her as a Woman. Mother. Daughter. Wife.

Ena Goods ponders her backup selection after learning that her first choice Z-Bo poster had sold out during the wildly successful Grizzlies playoff promotion at the FedExForum. (Photo: Shirley Jackson) Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Kenny B. Johnson

Grit … grind … thou name is the Memphis Grizzlies!

After a heart-breaking loss in Game 1 that easily could (and probably should) have the Thunder down 2-0, the Grizzlies responded with an impressive 99-93 victory to even the best of seven series at 1-1.

Led by the steady hand of Mike Conley, who was one assist away from a triple-double with an impressive stat line of 26 points, 10

rebounds and 9 assists, the Grizz were determined not to let another late lead disappear.

Marc Gasol added 24 points and provided a major presence in the paint that Oklahoma City just could not match.

Neither team led by more than seven points in a game that seemed destined to go down to the wire once again.

Game 3 is Saturday in Memphis at FedExForum, aka “The Grindhouse.”

Today’s NBA defenses like to avoid allowing open corner 3-pointers, but the Grizzlies obviously made the decision to let anyone not named Kevin Durant beat them late. The re-

sult? One made field goal during the last five minutes for the Thunder.

After hitting the key baskets in the opener, NBA All-Star Durant couldn’t provide an answer for OKC. He missed his last three shots, including a pair of 3-point attempts, but still finished with a very respectable 36 points, 11 rebounds and 9 assists.

Contributions were wide spread for the Grizz late. Gasol converted a 3-point play and a put back inside against Durant, and Quincy SEE GRIZZ ON PAGE 11

- INSIDE • If Clarence Thomas isn’t ‘elite,’ who is? See Opinion, page 4.

• Signs that you may not be ready to retire. See Business, page 5.

SEE MOM ON PAGE 12

MEMPHIS WEEKEND

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

H- 7 4o - L - 6 1o Scat T-Storms

H- 7 2o - L - 5 3o Few Sho wers

H- 6 5o - L - 4 8o Partl y Cl o udy

REGIONAL TEMPS LITTLE ROCK NASHVILLE JACKSON, MS

Friday H-80 L-62 H-71 L-61 H-76 L-64

Saturday H-76 L-57 H-71 L-52 H-74 L-59

Sunday H-71 L-50 H-67 L-43 H-77 L-49

• ‘Spiritual Bank Accounts’ rock in times like these. See Religion, page 6.

Farewell...

The family of Maxine Smith gather strength as they say their final farewells to a woman who was an unforgettable positive influence on the life and times of Memphis. (L-R) Kenneth Hughes (nephew), Clementine Ramsey (sister), Patty Ramsey (neice), Vicki Palmer (goddaughter), son Vasco “Smitty” Smith III. (Photo: George Tillman Jr.)

• Is this the last go-round for Iron Man? See Entertainment, page 8.

• Lamman Rucker visited Memphis in conjunction with Teach for America . See Community, page 12.

NEWS

Page 2

DC honor for eighthgrade volunteer

M’Lea Scott, a 14-year-old Craigmont student, was one of Tennessee’s top two youth volunteers of 2013 honored in the nation’s capital Monday night.

Scott, an eighth-grader, and Hannah Bryant, 17, of Columbia were saluted for outstanding volunteer service during the 18th annual presentation of The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards.

M’Lea and Hannah – along with 100 other top youth volunteers from across the country – each received $1,000 awards and personal congratulations f r o m Academy Aw a r d winning a c t o r K e v i n Spacey a n d Olympic g o l d medalist Allyson MʼLea Felix. The Scott setting was an award ceremony and gala dinner reception held at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History.

The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program, sponsored by Prudential Financial in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), named M’Lea and Hannah Tennessee’s top middle and highschool level youth volunteers in February. In addition to their cash awards, they each received an engraved silver medallion and an all-expense-paid trip with a parent to Washington, D.C., for four days of recognition events.

M’Lea started her “Pennies for the Homeless” campaign to help support the Memphis Union Mission, which feeds the hungry. She was moved to get involved one Sunday morning when she and her grandmother were getting out of the car to go to church. A young man approached them, said he was homeless, and asked for a dollar to get something to eat.

“My grandmother had only the check she had written for church and I did not have a dollar,” said M’Lea. “This disturbed me so that I could not concentrate on the message being preached because my focus was still on the young man in need of a meal.”

On the way home, she and her grandmother discussed the plight of the homeless and M’Lea learned that many are children or veterans.

Believing that even in tough economic times people would be willing to donate pennies to a good cause, M’Lea launched her penny drive. To promote her campaign, she spoke to her church congregation, family, friends, and local school administrators asking for pledges and donations. The local media helped spread the word.

After a year of collecting donations, M’Lea and her father entered their bank with a big box of pennies and cash totaling $1,000, which she donated entirely to the Memphis Union Mission. M’Lea brought her check to the mission on Thanksgiving eve and got to meet some of the people the funds would help. The director told her the donation would provide a filling and healthy meal for 600 hungry people.

“I learned the greatest act of love and kindness does not require a lot of money, but action and motion,” she said.

“We commend these honorees not only for the impact of their service and their spirit of giving, but also for inspiring others to consider that they can make a difference, too,” said John Strangfeld, chairman and CEO of Prudential Financial, Inc. Hannah, a junior at Zion Christian Academy, has given brand-new purses stuffed with personal items to hundreds of girls in need in her community over the past five years.

Hannah conducts several fundraisers throughout the year to fund the expenses of her “ministry.”

“I never knew that a purse could do so much,” Hannah said.

The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program was created in 1995 to identify and recognize young people for outstanding volunteer service – and, in so doing, inspire others to volunteer as well.

May 9 - 15, 2013

Tri-State Defender

LEGACY: Dr. Maxine A. Smith — Oct. 31, 1929-April 26, 2013

Mayor AC Wharton Jr. and Roslyn M. Brock, chairman of the National Board of Directors for the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. (Photo: George Tillman Jr.)

Dr. Maxine A. Smith (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

Pictured from right: Dr. Smithʼs son, Vasco “Smitty” Smith III; her goddaughter, Vicki Palmer; niece, Patty Ramsey; sister, Clementine Ramsey; nephew, Kenneth Hughes; and Barbara Atkins, sister-in-law. (Photo: George Tillman Jr.) The memorial service for Dr. Maxine A. Smith, who died April 26, produced images that collectively formed a fitting salute.

Metropolitan Baptist Church, with the Rev. Reginald Porter officiating, was the venue for the sendoff of the civil rights activist, long-time NAACP executive secretary and long-serving Memphis Board of Education commissioner. It began with a musical prelude by Jackie Reddick Jones and eased into Scripture readings by Sonya Walton and Demar Roberts.

The Rev. Debra Reid delivered a prayer of con-

Deborah Manning Thomas George Tillman Jr.)

solation and local songbird Debra Manning Thomas performed musical selections.

The service featured expressions and tributes from nine who worked and served with Dr. Smith – Mayor A C Wharton Jr., Roslyn M. Brock, Gerri House, Beverly Robertson, Pitt Hyde, Rep. Steve Cohen, Patty Ramsey, Beverly Tatum and Ruby Bright.

The Rev. Rosalyn Nichols delivered words of comfort, with acknowledgements by Dr. Smith’s friend of many years, Peggy Brewer.

The service concluded with a closing prayer by the Rev. Samuel B. Kyles.

(Photo:

Vicky Palmer (left) and Judge Carolyn Wade Blackett (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

Rev. Reginald Porter and Rev. Samuel "Billy" Kyles (Photo: George Tillman Jr.)

NEWS

Tri-State Defender

BOOKER

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

of Omni Prep Academy.

BES: Public education has undergone and is undergoing significant and rapid changes.

What is your view on education reform, charters, vouchers, teacher compensation based on student achievement, etc? How important is education in your political platform?

Mayor Booker: Education is important to my life’s purpose. This country has to move from somewhat of an educational apartheid where kids born in certain zip codes are denied the same access and opportunity as kids living in other zip codes. We’ve got to make sure we end that. Every child should be able to enter a school of excellence. That is the public’s obligation, to support excellence in education. That comes in lots of varieties. It can be a public charter school, a public district school or magnet school.

I support giving kids a strong platform for public education. I think the public should never shirk its opportunities to adequately fund those public institutions. I’ve always been open to education reform, to innovation to working to develop the best kinds of schools to serve our kids.

And that doesn’t mean a one size fits all cookie cutter sort of education but one that allows for the customization of education to serve the best interest of each individual child where they are. I celebrate in Newark lots of different paths to excellence for our kids and appreciate what that means in improving educational attainment overall in our community.

BES: You have apparently had a great deal of success during your tenure as Mayor of Brick City, known as one of America’s toughest urban communities. Can you talk about some of the success

Page 3

May 9 - 15, 2013

Mayor Booker and TSD Publisher Bernal Smith II laugh when discussions moved to the Booker familyʼs desire to have him “get in the game” relative to a wife and children and carrying on the family lineage. The 44 year old admits his older brother Cary has carried the torch so far, but he remains optimistic of his prospects as he continues to focus on his career of public service. (Photo: Demarcus Bowser)

you’ve had, how you were able to achieve it and what advice do you offer to mayor’s of other urban communities?

Mayor Booker: We’ve been able to make some tremendous changes and improvements in Newark. We’ve helped usher in the biggest period of economic development in our city since the 1950’s and 60’s.

We’ve been able to double the construction of affordable housing and create our City’s largest public parks expansion in the last 100 years. We created New Jersey’s first Office of Re-entry where thousands of people have been supported with their return into public life from the prison system.

Through that program, we have significantly lowered the recidivism rate for those individuals.

We’re doing lots of explo-

ration in improving our public schools as well as making improvements in our court system. So I am extremely proud of the changes that we’re making, and as a result, our population is growing for the first time in 60 years. Businesses are coming back. We’re building our first new hotel in 40 years and our first new office tower in decades.

A lot of the ideas that we have applied in Newark were drawn from innovations of other leaders in other cities.

For example, the accountability systems that we’ve put in place in our City Hall we gleaned from Baltimore. Our Fatherhood Center that we established we emulated from Philadelphia. A lot of the innovations that are happening in American government are happening at the local level and

being implemented by innovative mayors and leaders. I am in favor of learning and sharing with other leaders so that communities and families across the country have a better opportunity at an enhanced quality of life.

BES: You have become widely known as “the people’s” Mayor, putting people up in your home during the flood, shoveling snow from people’s driveways, living on food stamps and more. Where does that sincere desire to serve and connect with your constituents come from? What are the foundational principles that drive your approach to governing and your approach to life in general?

Mayor Booker: This is the reality of who we are (Americans). We come from people

who looked out for each other.

We come from a community of people in America who pitched in, who served each other.

There is this idea in America if you want to go fast, go alone; but if you want to go far, go together. Combine your spirit, your energy, your love with positively-directed people.

That’s the leadership style I witnessed as a young man growing up. That’s the leadership style I read about and was so evidenced in some of the greatest chapters in American history – from the Civil Rights Movement to the Workers Rights Movement.

When people band together great things can happen! I feel like I am a modest reflection of “from whence I’ve come” as a person. I’m excited that I see that spirit thoroughly evidenced in Newark and that so many people are banding together on their blocks, in their neighborhoods and in their schools to help our city move forward.

BES: You have become a “rock star” if you will, certainly a very popular political figure in a time when many political figures are looked at with disdain. What does the political future hold for Cory Booker?

Mayor Booker: I’ve made no formal decision, but I am exploring running for the U.S. Senate (New Jersey). I will continue the exploratory process and make a decision by the end of this year. In the meantime, I am laser-focused on the 418 days I have left as Mayor of Newark, and I’m not going to count the days. I’m going to make each day count.

BES: When we talked last week we joked about Cary carrying the mantle of growing the Booker family, while you’ve been focused on your career. Any plans for marriage, children in the near future?

Mayor Booker: I’m a prisoner of hope, not just for the community but also for adding to the Booker family and lineage. I’m a romantic in the

fullest sense of the word. I have a romantic view of my country, of my community and our history and I just think that we should have full lives. I believe that God wants us to have life and have it more abundantly. For me that does involve finding my better half and then having children. That is something that I am waiting on, but I have faith that it will happen.

BES: Lastly, you are an inspiration to many just by how you live your life and serve others, but what words of advice or encouragement would you offer to young people here in Memphis and across the country relative to their future prospects and improving their lives today?

Mayor Booker: We all were born for greatness, all of us!

We underestimate ourselves in life. We are not kind to ourselves. We don’t love ourselves and believe in ourselves as much as we should. All of us need to be committed to living our authentic truth and be willing to give things up, sacrifice in life to better achieve who we are called to be. As one great author said, “If you want to fly, you have to give up the things that are keeping your grounded.”

They must resist those leveling forces that try to make us all the same. They must challenge themselves against the forces that make us attempt to simply fit in to society’s definition of who we should be.

We weren’t built to fit in but to stand out. Have the courage to be different, to be great.

In greatness I’m not talking about in the sense of celebrity, particularly in this hypercelebrity culture in which we now live. No, they must learn that significance is more important that celebrity, purpose is more important than popularity. I challenge this next generation to define greatness on the inside and live their lives in firm allegiance to that unique sense of purpose and greatness.

OPINION

Page 4

John H. Sengstacke Publisher (1951 - 1997)

The Mid-Southʼs Best Alternative Newspaper

A Real Times Newspaper

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

On Sunday, May 6, Kiona Daniels celebrated her Grandmother Ellaʼs 98th birthday. This weekend, she will join millions across the nation in celebration of Motherʼs Day, May 12.

‘Mama, what would I do without you?’

America celebrates Motherʼs Day 2013

by Hazel Trice Edney and Akua Aboagye (TriceEdneyWire.com)

Tri-State Defender

May 9 - 15, 2013

As young as 5 years old, Twan Woods would wake up at night and hear his mother having a seizure. He would know exactly what to do. He would run into her bedroom, hold her, put a cold rag in her mouth, comfort her and keep her from falling until it was over, he recalls.

“My Mom, she’s a sick lady. She’s like, handicapped, she’s been like that all her life,” said the 37-year-old who grew up in Ward 8, a crime-ridden section of South East Washington, D.C. Despite the hardships, his mother, whom he identified as Francine Ward, raised him and his younger brother the best she could – with love and wisdom.

“She couldn’t come out and chase behind me as I was growing up...She couldn’t even teach me how to go to school and how to become a man, but one thing she did teach me was to depend on the Lord. She put the Bible scriptures in me. When I was younger I didn’t want to hear it. But it was in me; so when I got older I had that to fall back on. She gave me the Word.”

In part, because of his mother’s heroic influence on his life, Woods and a few of his friends have pulled together a singing group called Ward 8 Entertainment. Their inspirational CD that he gives to anyone for a small donation is called, “Waiting for Better Days.” One of his prize singles on the CD is fittingly titled, “Mama, What Would I Do Without You?” This week, millions of men, women, boys and girls, are asking that same question and preparing to pay respects to their mothers and the motherly figures in their lives. In various interviews, some discussed their most touching memories and most important lessons.

When Kiona Daniels was only 16 years old, her mother was killed in a car accident. Her grandmother, Ella, took over the mothering. But, having been raised until the age of 16 in a household with three matriarchs – her mother, grandmother and great grandmother, she had a triple dose of love that most people have not experienced.

“In retrospect, I think it had a huge impact on just developing me with a foundational basis of who I have become as a woman; especially as it pertains to relationships,” said Daniels, who was set to receive an executive Master’s Degree in public administration from American University this weekend. “Oddly enough, you wouldn’t think that two very older women would have an impact on me from a relationship standpoint,” but they taught by example, she said.

“My grandmother, Ella, she was just a loving, caring wife and had her own independence and had her own identity. And, so, just having my own identity in a relationship and having my own independence financially

without any reliance or dependence on a dating partner was something that I took from my grandmother a great deal. That was one of her main things: ‘Never depend on anyone. Always have your own,’” she quotes her grandmother, now 98 years old.

Mother’s Day, like many holidays, is overshadowed by consumer-driven advertisement. Therefore, some struggle to enjoy the real meaning of the day set aside to honor the one who gave words of wisdom, nursed injuries, wiped away tears, cooked favorite meals and often sacrificed her own desires for her family’s. Yet, this Sunday, many mother’s hearts will be touched with the simplicity of love demonstrated by macaroni art projects from elementary schools and oversized cups with huge lettering designating her as the “World’s Greatest Mo.” Patricia Dillard eloquently recalls the love of her mother during a time when African-Americans still struggled amidst Jim Crow and racial segregation.

“I was about my granddaughter’s age (3-4 years old) and it was the late 1940’s in Sweetbriar, Va., where my father worked as a cook and my mother did domestic housework at Sweetbriar College, an all girls’ college,” she recalls. “The people she worked for gave her a porcelain doll as a gift. When my mother came home from work that day she said to me there was something in the car for me.

“It was raining and I ran to the back seat of the car out in the garage and there it was, this big beautiful baby porcelain doll. I felt so special that she gave something so precious that was meant for her to me. And I still have it. I think of the sacrifices my parents made to make sure I was happy, and how I appreciated this doll.”

Connie Danquah, 23, a physical therapy student at Howard University, giggles as she recalls her Mom’s dedication to her after leaving a job working long hours in New York City.

“I was about 6,” Danquah recalls.

“She quit her job and relocated to a position closer to home that was less demanding because she wanted to be around. She picked me up from school and took me to all my extracurricular activities. We got to do all the girly stuff together; she dressed me up in big flowery dresses and enrolled me in tap and ballet. I felt like she was more excited than I was. I think it was something she always wanted to do when she was little but due to family finances probably never got the chance.”

The veil of innocence causes most children to be oblivious to the love and caregiving received from their parents. It isn’t until later in life, most commonly after people have children of their own, that they really understand the strength and selflessness necessary to raise a child.

But, most people agree that regardless of who anyone considers Mom, there is nothing like a mother’s love.

“Mama, Mama, I know you’re really not a father figure,” says Twan Woods’ song, “But I want to take this time and thank you for giving me life.”

Your letters to the editor are welcome. For verification, please include your name, address and telephone number.

Mail to: In The Mail, Tri-State Defender, 203 Beale St., Ste. 200, Memphis, TN 38103 E-mail: inthemail@tri-statedefender.com Maximum length: 300 words (subject to editing for clarity)

IN THE MAIL

Consumer power has no age limit

If Clarence Thomas isn’t ‘elite,’ who is?

CNN

by LZ Granderson Supreme Court justices are in the top 10 percent of earners in this country. They attended the best universities and have access to the best health care, a pension plan unaffected by the economy and oh, by the way, immense power.

There isn’t a socioeconomic litmus test they could take that would result in them being in a class result other than elite.

And yet Justice Clarence Thomas, when asked during an interview at the Duquesne University School of Law in April whether he thought he would see a black president in his lifetime, made it seem as if he’s on the outside looking in. He said he knew “it would have to be a black president who was approved by the elites and the media, because anybody that they didn’t agree with, they would take apart.”

Thomas saying “the elites” in that context is like Honey Boo Boo complaining about “the trash on TV.” People are asked to rise when he goes into the office, and he frames himself as some sort of powerless commoner? He was appointed by President George H.W. Bush and confirmed by the Senate, two symbols of America’s elite.

No, Thomas is part of the elite class that, in his words, “approved” the selection of Barack Obama as the first black president. He can make a distinction between political leanings of those within the class, but that in no way impacts his socioeconomic status.

Thomas’ remarks are an extension of the anti-elite rhetoric that has always been a part of the fabric of American politics but because of the proliferation of new media seems to have been amped up to a preposterous level. For the better part of three general elections, we have seen well-educated, well-funded, well-connected politicians bend over backwards trying not to appear to be well-educated, well-funded or well-connected.

Despite the charade, a study by the Center for Responsive Politics found that the average net worth of last year’s incoming freshman in Congress was more than $1 million. The average American household? Less than $67,000.

Everyone wants to be seen as a Regular Joe, but no one wants to admit Regular Joes don’t get to be president.

Or Supreme Court justice.

That’s not un-American. In fact, if you look at our history, in some ways, that point couldn’t be more American.

President James Madison, who is sometimes called “Father of the Constitution,” came from wealth and attended what is now known as Princeton University. Thomas Jefferson, the

Tri-State Defender Platform

1. Racial prejudice worldwide must be destroyed.

2. Racially unrestricted membership in all jobs, public and private.

3. Equal employment opportunities on all jobs, public and private.

4. True representation in all U.S. police forces.

5. Complete cessation of all school segregation.

6. Federal intervention to protect civil rights in all instances where civil rights compliance at the state level breaks down

author of the Declaration of Independence, attended the College of William and Mary, rode horses for fun and played the violin.

John Jay, another one of our Founding Fathers, was from a LZ Granderson wealthy family in New York.

What’s more stereotypically elite than a rich guy from New York?

This country’s political dialogue would benefit greatly if we acknowledged that part of history and stopped treating the word “elite” like a hot potato. “Elites” exist in all 50 states, regardless of whether they’re red or blue.

“Elites” exists in all effective lobbying groups; that’s why they’re effective.

And “elites” exist in national media, regardless of the call letters.

Fox News has comfortably been on top of the ratings food chain for a number of years now, and yet it continues to brand itself as an outsider, as if it’s a weekly alternative newspaper and not a significant part of mainstream media.

At one point, Sarah Palin was making as much as $100,000 per speaking engagement and still tried to paint herself as disenfranchised. Last year, Rick Santorum famously misrepresented President Obama’s education policy and deemed him a snob for pushing higher education – while failing to mention his three degrees.

But the reason why elites play this branding shell game is because people on both sides of the aisle fall for it.

President Obama plays golf with Tiger Woods.

Rush Limbaugh pays Elton John $1 million to sing at his wedding.

And if you listen to them closely, it’s the other guy who’s elite.

Um, OK. “I think the president is an elitist, and he thinks he knows what’s best for everyone,” Eric Maynard, a pastor from Flushing, Michigan, told the Washington Post after a Santorum event in February 2012. “In Michigan, we have a large blue-collar population, and what Sen. Santorum said is right. Not everybody can go to college.”

Maynard is right; everybody can’t go to college.

But what kind of Jedi mind trick has been used on the country when that very idea is offensive?

(LZ Granderson, who writes a weekly column for CNN.com, is a senior writer and columnist for ESPN the Magazine and ESPN.com. Follow him on Twitter @locs_n_laughs.)

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I always talk about how this nation is becoming more and more multicultural. In eight years, there will be 170 million multicultural consumers in the United States.

This nation is a Cheryl huge melting pot Pearsonalready, but these McNeil forecasted numbers are promising for people of color – especially young people.

According to the most recent U.S. Census, African-Americans, Hispanics and Asians each make up 42 percent of the youngest demographic age groups: 12-17, 18-24 and 25-34.

These same groups of young folks are going to be in our shoes as adults in a few decades and their numbers are on the rise. The 18- to 24-yearold demographic is growing faster than any other segment.

Businesses and advertisers are paying very close attention to the information I’m sharing with you today. All of us know by now how critical everything we purchase, watch, read and listen to is for manufacturers and marketers. The same is true for young people. What are their consumer behaviors? How much are they contributing or will they contribute in the future to the consumer bottom-line?

Nielsen research shows that teens have some real purchasing potential – although at this point, that potential has a lot to do with the earnings of their parents, grandparents or guardians, since most kids are not yet making the big bucks. Last year, 29 percent of teens in the U.S. lived in households earning more than 100K. And if you are the parent of teenagers, you know they are very good at spending our money.

Ownership of smartphones and tablets is growing faster in households with teenagers. There was a 45 percent jump in smartphone penetration among teens between 2011 and 2012, a 32 percent increase among young adults 18-24 and 22 percent among those 25-34.

It seems laptops are cool with young people until they hit their late 20s – even though laptop ownership has increased in all three young adult age groups (12-17, 18-24, 25-34) over the last year.

We talk a lot in this column about how much time all of us spend in front of the television or watching our video content on one of the many other fun electronic toys we own. That time spent is money – both for the marketers who want to reach us and the program providers who measure and make decisions based on our viewing habits. Teens and young adults, like the rest of us, watch most of their shows and videos the old school way – on television. However, according to Nielsen’s most recent Cross-Platform Report, young consumers under 34 watched more video on the Internet and their mobile devices in 2012 than they did in 2011.

The “under 34” crowd isn’t a monolithic group, though, when it comes to video consumption.

Young teenagers lead in watching content on their mobile; 18 percent more than those 18-24 and 46 percent more than the next age group, 25-35. On the other hand, teens don’t seem to favor watching online, even though laptop ownership is higher in that group. The data shows that in the last quarter of 2012, those in the 18-24 age bracket spent nearly three times more consuming video on the Internet than 12 to 17-year-olds.

The “oldest” of the young demos, the 25 to 34-year-olds, spent the most total time watching video across all platforms in 2012: 19 hours and 30 minutes more per month than 18 to 24-year-olds and 40 hours and 54 minutes more a month than 12 to 17-year-old consumers.

Whenever I speak to youth groups, I always let them how much of the sweet target they are to marketers. And I think the information I just shared supports this statement.

The youth of today should feel empowered, too. Because not only are they the future, they are the present and marketers are watching.

(Cheryl Pearson-McNeil is senior vice president of Public Affairs and Government Relations for Nielsen.

For more information, visit www.nielsenwire.com.)

E-MAIL: Editorial e-mail (press releases, news, letters to editor, etc.): editorial@tri-statedefender.com; Display advertising e-mail (ads, advertising price requests, etc.): advertising@tri-statedefender.com; Classified advertising e-mail (ads, advertising price requests, etc.): classifieds@tri-statedefender.com; Subscription/Circulation e-mail (subscriptions, subscription price requests, etc.): subscriptions@tristatedefender.com; Production e-mail (technical questions/specs, etc.): production@tri-statedefender.com.

The Tri-State Defender (USPS 780-220) is published weekly by Tri-State Defender Publishing Co., 203 Beale Street, Suite 200, Memphis, TN 38103. Second Class postage paid at Memphis, TN.

BUSINESS

Tri-State Defender

Page 5

May 9 - 15, 2013

MONEY MATTERS

Signs that you may not be ready to retire Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Charles Sims Jr.

There’s plenty of guidance available to help you feel confident that it’s time to retire.

But it could be just as important to recognize signs that you may not be ready. You might think of these as yellow caution lights, warning you to slow down and give further thought to your situation.

You’ve reached the eligibility age for Social Security.

For some people, Social Security eligibility is synonymous with retirement. In fact, about 50 percent of those who are el-

igible for benefits file at the earliest age of 62, despite the fact that t h e i r monthly payments will be permanently Charles Sims Jr., CFP reduced.

Even if you have reached full retirement age (age 66 for those born between 1943 and 1954), you may not be ready to retire unless you expect to receive substantial income from

savings and/or other sources. Social Security is intended to replace only a portion of your preretirement income. Benefits increase at filing ages up to 70.

You need to work parttime. Sixty-five percent of older workers say they would like to continue working in some capacity during retirement. That’s a worthwhile goal if you can do it by choice, but be careful if you expect to depend on part-time income.

Jobs are not easy to find, and many part-time positions pay low wages. It might be wise to work in your current job a little longer to help build additional savings.

ON OUR WAY TO WEALTHY

Better safe than sorry Prenuptial agreements

by Carlee McCullough

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

What is the common denominator between Jessica Biel and Justin Timberlake, Khloe and Lamar, Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes, and Beyonce and Jay Z? They all have prenuptial agreements in place. A prenuptial agreement, premarital agreement, or commonly referred to as “prenup”, is a contract entered into prior to marriage by the people intending to marry. While the content of a prenuptial agreement can vary greatly, common provisions are usually for division of property and spousal support in the event of divorce or breakup of the marriage. Additionally, “payments” in the event of adultery can even be addressed.

Although celebrities are most likely to have a “prenup” in place, these legally binding arrangements are not just limited to the rich and famous. In fact more and more ordinary working class men and women are entering into these agreements. Why? Because as economic times become more and more challenging, individuals want to protect the separate property they already have prior to the marriage. A prenup becomes even more important if this is a second or third marriage and children from previous relationships exist.

Enforceability of Prenuptial Agreements Tennessee is a state that recognizes prenuptial agreements. The court will consider several factors when determining whether to enforce the agreement. A few of those factors include: 1. Was the contract entered into voluntarily or was there duress or coercion involved?

The court will not enforce an agreement if either of those factors exist.

2. Is the prenuptial agreement unconscionable or would a reasonable person sign it?

3. Was there sufficient financial disclosure?

4. Did the other party understand what was b e i n g signed?

5. Did the other party have to time o n s i d e r c Carlee McCullough the agreement or negotiate?

For the agreement to be enforceable, you cannot present it to the other party ten minutes before the wedding.

Consider a “Prenup” in these situations: 1. This is not your first marriage and you have significant assets such as a home.

2. You have children from a preexisting relationship and want to ensure that when you pass away your assets will be distributed as you desire to the older children as well as to the future children in the new marriage.

3. You are much wealthier or earn much more than the person you are marrying. A prenup can be used to limit alimony and/or make sure that the other party is marrying you for you and not for your possessions.

4. You are much poorer than the person you are marrying. A prenup can ensure that you are protected financially in the event of divorce or unfaithfulness.

5. You plan to quit your job to raise a family and your spouse will be the primary breadwinner. In this case, professionally you will not be growing and prospering like your partner. So some form of protection may be warranted in case the marriage does not last.

6. You own a business that you had prior to this marriage and want to protect it as separate property.

Prenuptial Agreement Myths 1. Prenups are only for the rich and famous. False. As mentioned before, ordinary working people are beginning to enter into prenuptial agree-

ments in order to protect their real estate, income, or businesses.

2. These agreements encourage divorce. False. Divorce rates are rising with or without a prenup in place.

Prenup agreements encourage and stimulate a serious conversation about financial expectations during and after the marriage. Prenuptial agreements can also have a sunset provision which means that it will no longer be valid after a certain number of years. This provision can be used to calm any anxiety that a prenuptial agreement encourages divorce.

3. Prenuptial agreements kill the romance in a relationship. False. Being assured that someone is marrying you for all of the right reasons only increases the romance in a relationship. Unfortunately divorce is the real romance killer.

4. Prenuptial Agreements will not be upheld by the courts. False. Tennessee recognizes prenups when drafted and entered into correctly.

5. Only men want prenups.

False. Now that many women are excelling in their careers and businesses, women need a prenup just as much as accomplished men. Women purchase homes, investment property and businesses just as men.

Women have children from preexisting relationships as well. A prenup is not limited to a particular gender.

6. Prenuptial agreements are expensive. False. When considering the potential price that will be paid in the event of divorce, a prenup is relatively inexpensive.

(This month we will be reviewing various aspects of divorce as it relates to business including: grounds for divorce, custody, child support and alimony.)

(Contact TSD’s On Our Way To Wealthy columnist Carlee McCullough, Esq., at 5308 Cottonwood Road, Suite 1A, Memphis, TN 38118, or email her at jstce4all@aol.com.)

What an Internet sales tax will cost you CNN

By Melanie Hicken NEW YORK (CNNMoney) — The days of shopping at major online retailers like Amazon.com without paying sales tax could soon be history.

The Senate passed legislation Monday that would allow the 45 states (and the District of Columbia) that charge sales tax to require online retailers to collect taxes on purchases made by their residents. The bill will now move to the House.

So how would the passage of the “Marketplace Fairness Act” affect your online shopping? A lot depends on where you live.

What does the bill propose?

Big brick-and-mortar retailers with an online presence, such as Wal-Mart, already charge sales tax for web purchases. But in many states, you can still shop tax-free at Internet-only retailers like Amazon.com or Overstock.com.

Currently, these online sellers are only required to collect tax in states where they have a physical presence, such as a store or warehouse. But under the proposed law, states would

be able to require online sellers to collect sales tax if they have sales of at least $1 million outside of states where they have physical operations.

Is this a new tax?

No. While some opponents of the bill argue that it constitutes a tax increase, in most states you’re already supposed to be paying taxes on all online purchases.

Most states require you to pay a so-called “use tax” when a sales tax wasn’t collected at online checkout. But few people actually do so.

How much more would I have to pay?

In some cases, nothing.

The local use tax rate on purchases or downloads of digital videos, digital books, and digital music, as defined in Tennessee tax code is established at 2.50% regardless of the actual local tax rate in effect in the jurisdiction of the user and consumer.

If you live in Arizona, California, Kansas, Kentucky, New York, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, Texas and Washington — states where the Internet giant has warehouses — you are already paying taxes on Amazon purchases.

If you’re a resident of a state that doesn’t charge any sales tax, like Montana or New Hampshire, then your online shopping bills would stay the same.

In many states, however, you will pay more.

Will all online retailers be charging a sales tax?

No. Smaller retailers likely won’t meet the $1 million threshold for out-of-state sales.

Will all products be taxed?

It all depends on the sales tax laws where you live.

In general, states tax the purchase of so-called “tangible goods,” but there are often a laundry list of exceptions. For example, in New Jersey all clothing is tax-free. Meanwhile, clothing items and footwear that cost less than $110 are not taxed in New York.

Want to buy an American flag to hang outside? Some states like Connecticut and Wisconsin won’t charge a tax on American or state flags, for that matter.

Prescription medications or grocery products, like milk or raw chicken, are often tax-free but other food products, such as prepared food or junk food, will often get hit.

You’re counting on market growth. The rapid decline in stock values during the Great Recession and slow growth during the recovery suggest that it might not be wise to factor high returns into your retirement strategy. In fact, when you retire or are close to retirement, you may want to shift more of your assets to conservative investments. Doing so could help preserve principal but typically is associated with lower growth potential.

You’re not prepared for medical costs. In a recent poll, the high cost of medical care was retirees’ biggest surprise regarding retirement expenses.

Even with current Medicare benefits, it’s estimated that a couple who retired in 2012 at age 65 would need $240,000 to pay their out-of-pocket medical expenses in retirement.

Your spouse is not on board with your decision to retire. About three out of five married couples disagree on the timing of their retirements.

Whether you decide to retire together or several years apart, it’s important for you and your spouse to be comfortable with the other’s choice to retire or continue working.

You have high debt or other financial obligations. Traditional formulas for determin-

ing retirement income needs often assume that retirees have paid off their mortgages. If you are still making payments on your home, have college loans or high credit-card debt, or are supporting your children or aging parents, you may not be ready to leave the workforce.

The road to retirement can have many twists and turns. A yellow light may be a timely warning that you are not quite ready to go full speed ahead.

(Charles Sims Jr. is president/ CEO of The Sims Financial Group. Contact him at 901682-2410 or visit www.Sims FinancialGroup.com.)

RELIGION

Page 6

Tri-State Defender

May 9 - 15, 2013

LIVING THE LIFE I LOVE

‘Spiritual Bank Accounts’ rock in times like these

Dear Lucy: Lately, it just seems that everyone and everything is against me. No matter what I do, I run into roadblocks of criticism or failure. I know that there has to be a way out of this awful place that I am stuck in. Please help! – Stuck

Dear Stuck: It just sounds to me like you have depleted your Spiritual Bank Account!

We often spend most of our time trying to make money, friends, connections and all other sorts of material things to put in an account that we can see, touch, feel and withdraw from. Yet, there is another account that is reserved for us that can never go dry when we learn how to keep it full. I call it my Spiritual Bank Account (SBA).

When we are overly focused on Mrs. Freddie Black accepts a special plaque in honor of her late son, Tony DeCarlos Black, Washington Chapelʼs former pianist. Also pictured: the Rev. Bethel L. Harris Jr. (left), the churchʼs pastor and the Rev. Willie Ward Jr., pastor of Mt. Pisgah CME Church in Orange Mound.. (Photos by Wiley Henry)

what’s going on outside of us, we forget to make deposits in our SBA. We first establish or open our account by realizing that we are the beloved off springs of a Father (God) whose very naLucy ture is love. And Shaw all of that love is passed down to us. In fact, we live and move and have our very being in the midst of this overwhelming love.

This love cannot be escaped, denied or limited by our petty fears.

There is always enough of it to go around. It is out of this love that

every sweet blessing flows. It does not judge, criticize, condemn or withhold anything from us. We just have to continually know that it is present...look for it, expect it, praise it, give thanks for it and behave as it behaves.

Now the other thing we have to do to keep our SBA full is to work really hard to see something lovable in every person, condition or situation we meet.

No matter how tempted we are to believe that there is no love in the house, we are the only ones who can make the deposit in our account by insisting on searching and finding that love. When we don’t see it, we just have to fall back on knowing that it has to be present. We have to know that it is our only expectation! Each time we hold fast to the presence of this love, we are making a deposit in our SBA.

Then, when some situation or experience comes along that seems to be unlovable, unkind, or critical of our ability to succeed, we can whip out our spiritual checkbook and write a check to cover the condition of need. I know this sounds too simple.

But the truth is that you and what you think, do and say are all that matters.

When you keep your account full, you can write a check to cover every seeming situation of unkindness, hate, disappointment, discouragement, fear or doubt. Just try it. You don’t have to tell anyone when you are doing it. Just make sure you have been making enough deposits to always have what you need to write that check when it’s needed.

We have been promised that our Father who loves us is willing to pour out a magnitude of blessings that

there shall not be room enough to contain them. But first, we need to get in harmony with Him by seeing with His eyes; the eyes of Love.

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

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

Color coordinated for cause…

Friends and members of Washington Chapel C.M.E. Church enjoy sampling an array of salads at the Jones/Young Scholarship and Gospel Jazz Concert and Salad.

The Women in White program at Cornerstone Baptist church was held last Sunday (May 5). Pictured from left: the Rev. Eugene Henson and his wife; Charlesetta Brown (MC); and the speaker, Pearlie Love, and her husband, the Rev. L.L. Love. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley.)

Thanks for the support…

Washington Chapel serves and salutes The Board of Christian Education at Washington Chapel C.M.E. Church presented its Jones/Young Scholarship and Gospel Jazz Concert and Salad Spray last Saturday afternoon (May 4) at the C.M.E. Headquarters in First Memphis Plaza on Elvis Presley Blvd.

The Jones/Young Scholarship Fund was established by the Jones and Young families of Washington Chapel and dedicated to the memory

Lake Road Leath St. Baptist Church celebrated the 12th Pastor and Wife anniversary of Pastor and Mrs. S.H. Mickens (left), along with Berean Baptist Churchʼs Dr. Edward Parker and his wife, Linda Parker, last Sunday (May 5.) (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley.)

of Tony DeCarlos Black, the church’s former pianist.

On hand for the presentation was Mrs. Freddie Black, who accepted a special plaque in honor of her son.

The scholarship provides assistance to church members pursuing post-secondary undergraduate educational programs.

The Rev. Bethel L. Harris Jr. is the church’s pastor

PRAISE CONNECT -A WEEKLY DIRECTORY OF MINISTERS & CHURCHES-

METROPOLITAN BAPTIST CHURCH Dr. Reginald L. Porter Sr., Pastor

767 Walker Avenue Memphis, TN 38126

ASSOCIATE MINISTERS

901-946-4095 fax 948-8311

Rev. Davena Young Porter Rev. Linda A Paige Rev. Luecretia Matthews SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES

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

WEDNESDAY Bible Study .........................10:30 am Mid-Day Prayer Meeting .....12 noon Evening Prayer Meeting........7:00pm FRIDAY Cable Channel 17 ............... 8:00pm

Dr. & Rev. Mrs. Reginald Porter

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

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.

— Proverbs 1:7

—Ecclesiastes 9:11

ST. ANDREW A.M.E. CHURCH 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

May 9 - 15, 2013

CHEF TIMOTHY

Too many too comfortable being overweight and oversized

Losing weight is a constant battle some people find difficult to win. It’s a problem that affects tens of thousands of people who are on the verge of becoming obese or are already too heavy and in jeopardy of becoming seriously ill.

So, are you in a battle with your weight?

Before I go any further, let me give kudos to BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee for addressing the obesity problem in Memphis and the MidSouth through its Healthy Church Challenge 100-day weight loss competition. From what I understand, hundreds have taken the challenge to stay healthy and physically fit.

Working out is one way of staying healthy and physically fit. Going to the gym is good, but a 30-minute walk each day is just as good if your intent is to stay healthy and live. But don’t overlook the fact that you must eat a healthy portion of fresh fruits and vegetables to see any results.

Some of you have tried every diet known to man – from juicing to drinking lemon water. Some people have gone to the extent of having lap band surgery or gastric bypass surgery. No matter what, the weight also seems to return. Right?

The obesity epidemic is real, but having surgery to whittle away the weight is not going to give you much satisfaction if the weight returns. If you are

obese, there are less hazardous and painful ways to slim down.

Too many people have gone under the knife and now regret their decision.

If someDr. Timothy thing isn’t Moore done immediately to teach people about changing their eating habits and controlling their weight, there will be more overweight people struggling to survive the onslaught of high blood pressure, diabetes, any number of cancers.

Americans, I believe, are too comfortable with being overweight and oversized.

Waistlines are expanding too, but the fact remains that it is too unhealthy to be obese.

There is no quick fix to the obesity problem, but the solution is already in your hands.

Don’t be misled into thinking that weight loss surgery will relieve the discomfort of losing weight and keeping it off. It is estimated there are 220,000 operations a year related to weight loss to remove unwanted fat. The operations come with a staggering cost as well: about $6 billion a year.

Being overweight and obese

has been shown to increase diabetes. Cancer risk is up too by 50 percent. So how is this possible?

We have become accustomed to eating highly processed foods, enjoying fructose-infused meals and drinks, and not getting any form of physical activity.

Obesity is a problem and a severe threat to our nation’s health and longevity. It should never be taken lightly, because obesity is associated with other medical problems that are known to shorten one’s life.

As the obesity rate continues to rise, medical expenses also are rising.

The choice of foods that we eat – making sure they supply the body with good and proper nutrients – is required to offset obesity. I give President Obama kudos as well for extending health care to millions of deserving Americans. Still, there are some who won’t be able to pay for healthcare.

With all the reports out on obesity, is there really a solution to fighting and winning this epidemic? Sure there is. All the leading healthcare advocates agree that eating a wholesome plant-based diet is the single best thing we can do to protect and preserve our health.

A plant-based diet includes eating plenty of whole grains, legumes, fruits, seeds, vegetables and nuts. It shouldn’t be that difficult to switch to a plant-based diet unless you think it won’t provide your

body with the proper nutrition it needs to fight off impending dangers – high blood pressure, strokes, cancers, diabetes, etc.

Eating a plant-based diet is also known to help treat and reverse obesity. So, in your quest to remain healthy, or regain your health, I urge you to consider such a diet. It’s a challenge, but you’d be better for it.

Then you’ll see the weight come off. I promise you that.

(Dr. Timothy Moore teaches nutrition, heart disease and diabetes reversal through a plant-based lifestyle. He is a professional speaker, international wellness coach and personal plant-based chef. He is the author of “47 Tips To Reverse Your Diabetes.” He can be reached by email at cheftimothy@cheftimothymoore.co m, visit him at www.chef timothymoore.com or follow him at www.twitter.com/ cheftimmoore.)

Page 7

ENTERTAINMENT Tri-State Defender, Thursday, May 9 - 15, 2013, Page 8

WHAT’S HAPPENING MYRON?

Is this the last go-round for Iron Man?

This weekend I went out to see “Iron Man 3.” I usually don’t make plans to go see movies such as this. It just sort of happens when you have kids.

That accounts for how I’ve sat through versions Myron 1 and 2.

Mays However, after nearly two hours of non-stop action, a ton of overpriced concessions and a restless two year old, I must say that I wasn’t disappointed at all.

Without giving up the plot or ending, this particular installment of the “Iron Man” series was to be sort of a wrap-up, as if there won’t be an “Iron Man 4.” But of course we all know better, huh?

There will eventually be an “Iron Man 4,” especially if this one makes a gazillion dollars like the last one.

Hollywood sort of has a way of sticking to the same formula, especially if it’s profitable. So if you’re in the mood for a little bit of action this coming weekend, you should at least give the movie a chance. You’ll be pleasantly surprised.

In sports

Last week was an interesting week in sports, as Washington Wizards player Jason Collins became the first openly gay active player in an American sport when he announced his sexuality.

Collins has received support from the NFL, some of his former and current teammates, as well as the president. He and his family even sat on the couch with Oprah this past Sunday night to talk about the developments surrounding his decision to go public.

Meanwhile, do you remember Antoine Dodson?

Yeah, the guy who brought you the unintended catch phrase “Hide yo kids...Hide yo wife”? He’s back…in the news at least.

According to TMZ, Dodson had announced that he is no longer gay.

Although there was speculation, I never actually knew him to publicly admit that he was gay. But I guess this somewhat confirms it; however, he also stated that he would also like to have a wife and family one day.

I’m wondering how much support he will get? Will he get a call from Washington?

Who knows! In the meantime, you can go to TMZ’s website to see the actual interview that was conducted with him last week. You might find it to be somewhat interesting.

Here What’s Happening…

Here’s something different…are you getting married this year? If you’re free between 6 p.m. and 9 pm on Thursday, May 9th, you’re in luck. Macy’s in Oak Court is having an event called “Sip & Scan.”

“What’s that?”

Sip & Scan is a great event for those who are planning their wedding but haven’t gotten all of the loose ends tied up. It’s also a great event for wedding planners! If your BIG day is on the way but you’ve yet to choose a photographer, caterer, florist, etc., this is you opportunity to meet some prospects.

Also, if you have not planned your registry, you may actually browse the store and take care of that as well. Admission is free and so are the refreshments. You can stop by and still get home in time to watch “Scandal.”

Speaking of ‘Scandal’

The season finale of ‘Scandal’ is coming up on the 16th. Do something different this time. Catch the season finale party at Memories Banquet Hall & Event Center. It’s from 7:30 p.m. til 10:30 p.m.

There will be show trivia and other games, great food and vendors.

Admission is $10. The 103.5 van will be there. A great time awaits you.

Also, Johnny Gill, Kem and Keith Sweat take over the Landers Center this Saturday night for the Mother’s Day Celebration. I plan to be in attendance and will be bringing you details on next week. Until then, that’s what’s happening.

(Got an event you’d like for me to cover or attend? Email me at Myron@whatshappeningmyron.com.)

Chuck D (Photos: Warren Roseborough)

Music Fest had Memphis jumping Special to The New Tri-State Defender

By Warren Roseborough Memphis In May is upon us, and so is the wet Memphis weather, turning it into Memphis in MUD! But that didn’t dampen the spirits of the thousands who attended the music festival. Big Boi (former member of Grammy Award winning Outkast) took me back by singing songs like Hey Ya, and Players Ball. He had the crowd dancing and singing to his hit songs.

The legendary Mavis Staples, who put on

Flavor Flav

Al Kapone and Muck Sticky

a stellar show, spoke about her dad, Pop Staples, and how he influenced her career. She is a considered a Memphian (although she is from Chicago) because her group, the Staple Singers, are part of the Stax family here in Memphis. She sang her songs and hits like I ‘ll Take You There by the Staple singers. A favorite from Saturday’s performances would have to be the Roots. The message they give and that funky Jazz style they have makes you want to follow them no matter where they are touring. The Roots have won a lot of Grammys with their smooth style.

Sunday, Memphian Al Kapone performed

to an energized audience that was jumping up and down and seemed to be having a great time. He talked about how proud he was to be from Memphis and reminded the crowd to support our Grizzlies.

Hip Hop legends Public Enemy featuring Chuck D and Flavor Flav showed why they are still on top after 25 years. Flavor Flav said they were celebrating 25 years in the music business. He and Chuck D danced all over the stage almost their entire performance. Although the weather wasn’t the best, it still turned out to be a great day for a show!

Big Boi

The audience for Public Enemy

Mavis Staples

ENTERTAINMENT

Tri-State Defender

Page 9

May 9 - 15, 2013

OPENING THIS WEEK

Kam’s Kapsules:

Weekly Previews That Make Choosing a Film Fun

Serena and Venus Williams in the documentary “Venus and Serena.”

(Photo: Getty Images) Special to the The New Tri-State Defender

by Kam Williams

For movies opening May 10, 2013

BIG BUDGET FILMS

“Aftershock” (R for rape, profanity, nudity, drug use and graphic violence) Harrowing horror flick, set in Chile, about a half-dozen tourists’ (Eli Roth, Ariel Levy, Nicolas Martinez, Lorenza Izzo, Natasha Yarovenko and Andrea Osvart) ordeal trying to survive the chaos and collapse of civilization in the aftermath of an 8.8 magnitude earthquake. With Selena Gomez, Dayana Amigo and Paz Bascunan.

“The Great Gatsby” (PG-13 for sexuality, smoking, violent images, partying and brief profanity) Leonardo DiCaprio handles the title role in this adaptation of F. Scott Fitgerald’s classic chronicling the decadent indulgences of a tight-knit set of friends out on Long Island during the Roaring Twenties. With Tobey Maguire, Carey Mulligan, Joel Edgerton, Isla Fisher and Gemma Ward.

“Peeples” (PG-13 for profanity, sexuality and drug use) Tyler Perry produced this kitchen sink comedy about a social climber (Craig Robinson) who shows up unannounced at his girlfriend’s (Kerry Washington) family’s summer home in Sag Harbor to ask her uptight fa-

ther (David Alan Grier) for her hand in marriage. Supporting cast includes S. Epatha Merkerson, Tyler James Ferguson, Kali Hawk, Diahann Carroll and Melvin Van Peebles.

INDEPENDENT & FOREIGN FILMS

“And Now a Word from Our Sponsor” (Unrated) Quirky comedy about an advertising executive (Bruce Greenwood) who can only speak in commercial slogans after suffering a brain injury while watching television.

Ensemble includes Parker Posey, Callum Blue and Allie MacDonald.

“Erased” (R for violence) Cat-and-mouse thriller about a former CIA agent (Aaron Eckhart) who ends up on the run with his estranged daughter (Liana Liberato) after they are both marked for termination as part of a wide-ranging international conspiracy. With Olga Kurylenko, Kate Linder and Neil Napier.

“Sightseers” (Unrated) Dark comedy about a guy (Steve Oram) with a secret agenda whose attempt to take his sheltered girlfriend (Alice Lowe) on a romantic vacation around the British Isles is frustrated by everything from bad weather to noisy teenagers. With Eileen Davies, Richard Glover and Monica Dolan.

“Venus and Serena” (Unrated) Tennis documentary highlighting the challenges faced by

the Williams sisters on and off the court over the course of 2011 season. Also featuring appearances by Chris Rock, Bill Clinton and Common, as well as reams of archival footage of the competitive siblings being groomed for greatness by their father during childhood.

HOROSCOPES

May 9–15, 2013

ARIES Your agreement with co-workers should improve as you take steps to strengthen emotional connections. Keeping things to yourself will not pay off for you this week. Love waits for you if you ask. A message from a distant source contains a clue.

TAURUS Dealing with smaller issues is the order of the week. Your soul vibrations will not attune easily to lofty subjects and long ranged plans.

Attention to details will however, give a sense of accomplishment.

GEMINI Matters relating to health need attention.

Prevention is more valuable than cure. Rest and eat well. Your stress will be lower by knowing that you do not have to fix a relationship that has gone sour.

CANCER Use better judgment with regard to financial matters. Stop rationalizing. Money is important.

Do something about the fact that you might find yourself broke more often than you wish.

LEO Move slowly concerning relationships this week. People are a little edgy and they don’t know exactly where you are coming from.

Don’t assume that they know what’s on your mind. Most of all, stay positive no matter what.

VIRGO YInstead of always trying to be right, try to find the logic in other’s viewpoint whether you happen to agree or not. Endear yourself to a loved one real soon, by really listening to what they have to say. Don’t be so stubborn, that you deny yourself what you really want.

LIBRA This week is a good week to dump any extra baggage that has been pulling you down. You have too much potential to waste your time on issues that will amount to nothing. Stay focused on your goals. Meet and spend time with people who will be able to help you reach them.

SCORPIO Your spiritual vibes will give you insight on a situation that’s been on your mind. Share your thoughts with someone close to you.

Spend time with friends and family that will provide support and guidance when you make an important decision.

SAGITTARIUS Your careless ways with money are going to be apparent this week. Financial mistakes you’ve made in the past will be especially painful. Don’t conceal the pain from yourself.

It is a warning that you should take steps to prevent future financial crisis.

CAPRICORN Take advantage of the great weather and spend time outdoors. Learn a new sport, and spend time with family and friends. Don’t take travel matters into your own hands. Seek a professional who will be able to plan a wonderful vacation for you without breaking your bank.

AQUARIUS Stay positive, don’t let negative people get inside your head. Ease rapidly away from anyone who is a naysayer. During the week, things may seem hard at times but soon life will be filled with fun. Enjoy!

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

Source: NNPA News Service

Page 10

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Legal notices

The tax education of Lauryn Hill: Prison CNN

Lauryn Hill told the judge who sentenced her to prison that she planned to pay her taxes; it was just a question of when.

The judge reminded her that citizens don’t get to choose when to pay the government just before ordering her to spend three months in a federal prison.

The Grammy-winning singer must report to prison on July 8 to begin serving the sentence for failure to pay federal income taxes for three years, followed by three months of home confinement and a year of supervised probation, the judge said.

Hill must also pay penalties and taxes still owed and a $60,000 fine.

Hill pleaded guilty last year to three counts of failing to file tax returns on more than $1.8 million between 2005 and 2007.

The artist appeared Monday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Madeline Cox Arleo in federal court in Newark, N.J., for sentencing.

Hill told the judge she lives “very modestly” considering how much money her music – she has sold 16 million records – earned for other people.

“Someone did the math, and it came to around $600 million,” she said. “And I sit here before you trying to figure out how to pay a tax

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Lauryn Hill performs on the Coachella Stage during day one of Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival on Friday, April 15, 2011 in Indio, California. (Photo: Rick Taber/CNN)

by Alan Duke

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May 9 - 15, 2013

debt? If that’s not like enough to slavery, I don’t know.”

“This wasn’t a life of jet-setting glamour,” she said. “This was a life of sacrifice with very little time for myself and my children.”

The income in question was mostly from music and film royalties paid to companies she owned between 2005 and 2008, according to the U.S. attorney’s office.

“Although Hill pleaded guilty to charges specifically related to those tax years, her sentence also takes into account additional income and tax losses for 2008 and 2009 – when she also failed to file federal returns – along with her outstanding tax liability to the state of New Jersey, for a total income of approximately $2.3 million and total tax loss of approximately $1,006,517,” the prosecutor said.

Hill’s lawyer, Nathan Hochman, told CNN that Hill has fully paid her taxes.

“I think the judge gave a fair and reasonable sentence,” Hochman said.

Her lack of a prior criminal record and the fact that she has six minor children helped, he said.

“I think the government has let a number of celebrities off and never criminally prosecuted them, Willie Nelson being at least one example,” he said. “I think that the court took that into account as well. Ms. Hill

did not get a slap on the wrist and let off with just paying a certain amount of money but has had to go through this entire criminal prosecution.”

Hill also used her sentencing to talk about her music.

“I didn’t make music for celebrity status,” she told the court. “I made music for artistic and existential catharsis, which was not just necessary for myself but it was also necessary for the generations of oppressed people who hadn’t had their voices expressed like I was able to do it. Music is not something I do from 9 to 5. It’s a state of being, and like a doctor who delivers babies, I’m on call all the time because that’s the kind of work this is.”

Hill revealed in a message posted to her Tumblr account last month that she’s been working on new music.

“It has been reported that I signed a new record deal, and that I did this to pay taxes. Yes, I have recently entered into an agreement with Sony Worldwide Entertainment, to launch a new label, on which my new music will be released,” Hill wrote. “And yes, I am working on new music.”

Her fans have been waiting for new music from her since her 1998 solo album, “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.”

(CNN’s Doug Ganley contributed to this report)

LEGAL NOTICE TO BIDDERS Sealed bids will be received at the Office of the City of Memphis Purchasing Agent, Room 354, City Hall, 125 N. Main, Memphis, TN 38103, June 7th, 2013 until 2:00 pm, for furnishing the City of Memphis with the following: FOR THE DIVISION OF: PUBLIC WORKS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF: PW 04029 Central Avenue from Patterson to Zach Curlin Federal Project No.: STP-EN-9409(74) State PIN: 041796.00 Central Avenue from Patterson Street to Zach Curlin Street in Memphis, Shelby County 1. The Prime Contractor and all Sub Contractors must prequalify with the Department of Transportation in accordance with Section 54-5-117 of the “Tennessee Code Annotated” and Tennessee Department of Transportation Rule 1680-5-3 prequalification of contractors before biddable proposals will be furnished.

2. The City of Memphis hereby notifies all bidders that a 25% Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) goal has been set for this project and must be met or exceeded. All contractors identified as a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) must be on the Tennessee Uniform Certification Program (TNUCP) List at the time of the bid opening.

3. The City of Memphis hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively insure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, disadvantaged business enterprises will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation, and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of age, race, color, religion, national origin, sex or disability in consideration for an award.

4. The City of Memphis is an equal opportunity affirmative action employer, drugfree with policies of non-discrimination on the basis of race, sex, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or military service. For additional information contact Mary Bright, (901) 576-6545, City of Memphis, Contract Compliance Office, 125 N. Main St, Memphis, TN 38103 5. “Certification by each bidder must be made with respect to nondiscrimination in employment.”

6. A Bid Bond is required.

7. All bids must include, on the outside of the bid envelope, the name of the project, the bid due date and the bid opening time.

Plans, Specifications and attendant deposit information available, until the time set for opening bids, from: Janet Prejean, (901) 636-2462, City of Memphis, Construction Inspections, 2599 Avery Avenue, Memphis, TN 38112.

Award of contracts will be made on the

Beyoncé speaks on that controversial Cuba trip (CNN) – Beyoncé’s husband JayZ has said his piece about the couple’s controversial April trip to Cuba, and even President Obama has weighed in. (You know, he’s got 99 problems and now Jay-Z’s one.)

But, in the midst of her world tour, Queen Bey’s pressed pause on the performances to speak up about the wedding anniversary vacay that turned into a political storm.

“It was such a beautiful trip. I met some incredible children,” the pop

star said in an interview with ABC News Monday.

“I visited some incredible entrepreneurs. And it was really educational for me. I learned so much about so many people and the country.”

Lately, it’s Beyoncé’s daughter Blue Ivy who’s getting the global education. The singer’s firstborn has accompanied her on tour stops in Paris, France, and one day Bey hopes that Blue won’t be the only Knowles-Carter kid in tow.

Beyoncé sings at 57th Presidential Inauguration. Photo: Steve Machalek/CNN

“I would like more children,” the 31-year-old said. “I think my daughter needs some company.”

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basis of the lowest and best bids as determined by the City of Memphis. “Best Bid” shall be defined as the responsive quotation, that meets the contract documents, including, if applicable, any DBE Participation Goal as set out in this specification.

THE RIGHT TO REJECT ANY AND ALL BIDS IS RESERVED Notice of intent of award will be issued after review of all opened bids. Any protest of award must be filed in writing with the Purchasing Agent within ten calendar days of the intent of award announcement.

By Order of the Mayor of the City of Memphis, Tennessee.

A C WHARTON, JR., MAYOR JEROME SMITH, CITY PURCHASING AGENT

NOTICE OF SUNSET PUBLIC HEARING In accordance with Title 4, Chapter 29, Tennessee Code Annotated, the Government Operations Committees of the Tennessee General Assembly will conduct a public hearing to receive testimony on whether the entity listed below should be continued, restructured, or terminated.

The hearing will be held in the Legislative Plaza, Nashville, Tennessee, as indicated below. Pertinent public testimony is invited.

Tuesday, May 21, 2013, at 1:00 p.m., in Room 12 Tennessee Dairy Promotion Committee Pest Control Board Pest Control Compact Soybean Promotion Board Tobacco Farmers Certifying Board Water and Wastewater Financing Board Four Lake Industrial Regional Development Authority Sam Davis Memorial Association, Board of Trustees Wednesday, May 22, 2013, at 8:30 a.m., in Room 16 Interstate Mining Compact Board for Water Quality, Oil and Gas Underground Storage Tank and Solid Waste Disposal Control Board Tennessee Athletic Commission State Board for Licensing Contractors Employee Misclassification Advisory Task Force Any changes in the above schedule which may become necessary will be announced at the Government Operations Committeesʼ website at www.capitol.tn.gov/joint/committees/govopps/. For additional information or to request special accommodations for individuals with disabilities, contact: Joe Schussler, CPA, Assistant Director, Division of State Audit, Nashville, Tennessee; telephone: (615) 747-5303; e-mail: Joe.Schussler@cot.tn.gov. Request for special accommodations should be made at least 24 hours prior to the meeting whenever possible.

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Page 11

Coach Jerry M. Johnson takes well-earned retirement bow

The pool of retired and revered coaches recently made room for one more – Coach Jerry M. Johnson Sr. Former students, players, family and friends gathered at the Marriott East Hotel on April 27 for a retirement dinner and gala in Coach Johnson’s honor. The celebration noted his 42 years of service in education and coaching in Memphis City Schools and Shelby County Schools.

Coach Johnson started his coaching career at Wooddale Junior High, coaching football and track. His teams won championships in both sports.

In 1974, he began his basketball and baseball careers at Fairley High School. While he was a basketball assistant, the Bulldogs reached the State Championships final four, losing to Northside 76-63 in the state finals. In baseball, the

GRIZZ

Bulldogs won two league championships and were the first runners-up in the city and regional championships in 1979 and 1980.

At Kingsbury High School, his basketball team, the Falcons, combined for 162 wins and only 59 loses over a sevenyear period. The Falcons won seven league championships, five district championships, two city championships, four regional titles, one sub state title and one State Championship (1998).

At Mitchell High School, Coach Johnson established a 169-72 record, winning six league championships, six district championships, five regional championships, four sub-state championships, four final fours and three state runners-up. In baseball, his teams won city championships at Kingsbury and Mitchell.

A product of Memphis Carver High School, Coach Johnson is a graduate of the LeMoyne Owen College, with a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science, and the University of Memphis, with a Masters of Educational Administration. He also did post-graduate study at Vanderbilt University, Tennessee State University, Christian Brothers University, The University of Maryland, Peabody College and Rhodes College.

On numerous occasions, he has been awarded the Teacher of the Year honor, and he has finished as runner-up.

A Vietnam veteran, Coach Johnson is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. A member of Monumental Baptist Church, Coach Johnson is married to Pamela Johnson and has two sons, Jerry M. Johnson Jr. and Jorr’don M. Johnson.

Retiring coach Jerry M. Johnson Sr. celebrates like a champ during a retirement dinner and gala in his honor. (Courtesy photo)

“Obviously, we have to make free throws, especially myself.”

Quincy Pondexter

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

Pondexter hit a fourth-chance jumper – after one offensive rebound by Gasol and two by Randolph – and then hit a 3pointer in transition during a 70 burst that put Memphis ahead.

The Grizz get a well-deserved three days of rest, with the next game on Saturday.

The FedExForum should be rocking and rolling!

Close … but no free throws

Grizz Nation was in full effect Sunday evening in Oklahoma City and although an unlikely victory in the home of last year’s Western Conference champs was well within reach, a few critical errors and some home court luck, gave the Thunder the win.

Durant made a critical jumper with 11.1 seconds remaining in the 4th quarter to give the Thunder the lead, which unfortunately for Grizz Nation, they never relinquished.

It was Durant’s fourth gametying or go-ahead shot in the final 24 seconds of a playoff game in the last five postseasons, tied for the most in the league.

Zach Randolph chipped in 18 points and 10 rebounds for the Grizzlies, and Quincy Pondexter and Mike Conley scored 13 apiece. The critical stat was that Memphis went 14 for 24 on free throws.

“Obviously, we have to make free throws, especially myself,” said Pondexter, who was slapped on his right arm

by Jackson on his attempt at the tying 3-pointer.

“We’ve just got to take this as a learning experience and move on.”

They did.

Go Grizz!

Deaundrea Visor is too small to slam dunk, but she's already a huge Grizzlies fan. (Photo: Shirley Jackson)

Page 12

MOM

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

Sister. Selflessly giving to ALL…Respect, Love, and Gratitude.

Mom the Bearer and Nurturer of…LIFE. The Center and Best MOM for Our Family!

A Position Worthy of Great Praise …Deserving Nothing Less!

You Are Loved!

Mother: Donna Cash

(Submitted by Amanda Cash, 27, and written by my Mom, Donna Cash. And to this day she still seeks God for guidance in our lives. She’s the best Mom.)

Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant… 1 Corinthians 13:4 Donna Little Cash did I know that St. Patrick’s Day 1986, would be the best day of my life. It was the day that I received a wonderful gift from God, my daughter Amanda. I didn’t realize how wonderful it was at the time because my little Amanda was born with Down Syndrome. I was lost as to what to do and how to teach and help her. This was my test of patience, faith and love.

Through the years of raising Amanda it took a lot of patience because she didn’t meet developmental milestones as quickly as typical children her own age…this is where the patience aspect came in. I was never jealous of other people’s children when they were walking at 10 to 12 months and Amanda walked at 20 months.

She learned most everything that she was taught but patience was essential and I never gave up on her. My faith and prayer was that God would get us through.

I was a pretty high strung person and, believe me, having Amanda slowed me down so that I could appreciate the simple things in life. I truly learned patience and things would happen in God’s time, not on my own time line. I learned that if things didn’t happen when they were supposed to that they would happen eventually and the rewards for the things that we waited on were greater than I could imagine. I learned to appreciate her accomplishments which otherwise would have been taken for granted with a normal child. I learned to celebrate each day and each goal met as a new gift from God. Sometimes things or circumstances happen in our lives that we cannot control so we have to put our faith in God that things will be okay. By putting our faith and trust in God we will realize his true unconditional love for us.

When we understand and accept God’s love we are able to love others unconditionally.

Amanda is now 27 years old and a very competent young woman. She completed high school and is currently a selfadvocate for persons with Down syndrome and other dis-

COMMUNITY

Tri-State Defender

May 9 - 15, 2013

abilities. I am so proud of her and her unconditional love for others.

Questions for Reflection

What are some circumstances in your life right now where God seems to be teaching you patience? What are some ways in which you can respond differently to the unexpected events in life? How has what you have learned through a difficult circumstance been used to help someone else?

Prayer

Most Loving Heavenly Father, let us learn patience and love through the circumstances in life that we cannot control.

To wait with enthusiasm as you make things happen in the time that is right for us. Father, I appreciate and will never understand your patience with us for we sometimes can be impatient in waiting on things to happen as we know humanly they should. Help us learn to wait with anticipation and faith that things will be all right and true happiness is there. In Jesus’ Name. Amen

Mother: Dr. Tonya Lyons (Nominated Allen)

by

Rayvin

I would like to nominate my spiritual mother, Dr. Tonya Lyons as Mother of the Year!

Dr. Tonya Lyons is a Woman of God, kind-hearted, goodspirited, phenomenal, understanding, loving but most of all, a m o t h e r.

She’s the mother of two amazing kids, Kelli and Tonya Judah, Lyons whom she loves unwavering and unconditionally!

She’s a wonderful role model to her kids and the kids/young adults around her. She maintains her own children while at the same time she is actively involved with the youth who attend our church.

From ministering to mentoring, she’s always there to embrace you with open arms and demonstrating true love and compassion for everyone she encounters. No matter how difficult or how delicate a person or a situation may be, her love is unyielding. She always encourages others to be best that they can be in spite of what naysayers have to say, and no matter what things may look like – keep pressing through and never give up because God will make a way.

Dr Tonya has a heart made of gold and is always willing to help in any way that she possibly can. She dedicates her life and time to those who feel outcast and left alone. She has embraced all of her spiritual children as if we’re one of her own. Dr Tonya has touched many lives through her hard work, patience, amazing gift, dedication and sacrifices to the point where her love is undeniable. I’m consistently inspired by her wholehearted virtue and it’s her strength and ambition that keeps me going!

She is one of life’s most precious gifts!

‘Pact of Technology’

Inspired by “The Three Doctors,” who transcended the streets of Newark, N.J. propelled by a pact to better themselves via education, Sidney Martin (l), Darren Ratliff II and Kendal Lewis (r) have formed The Three Pact of Technology. When “The Three Doctors” spoke recently at Frayer High School, Darren attended with his friend Sidney and his parents. (Courtesy photo)

ʻIt is about action not just feeling good, but actually getting up and doing something,” says actor Lamman Rucker. (Photo: Warren Roseborough)

Education, says actor Lamman Rucker, is ‘a big part of who I am’ besmith@tri-statedefender.com

by Bernal E. Smith II Actor (“All of Us,” “Half and Half,” “Why Did I Get Married?” and “Meet the Browns”), sex symbol and entrepreneur, Lamman Rucker, visited Memphis on Friday, May 3, in conjunction with Teach for America Week, supported and sponsored by FedEx. He sat down at Clear Channel Media studios with TSD President and Publisher Bernal E. Smith II to share his passion for education, his affinity for Memphis and words of wisdom to younger generations, among other things.

Following the interview, Rucker spoke at Overton High School, where the listeners included FedEx executives, who spent the day at Overton as guest teachers – another element of Teach for America Week.

Bernal E. Smith II: You’re in Memphis today to speak to a group of students over at Overton High School in conjunction with Teach for America (TFA) Week.

Why the connection to that? Why is that important for you?

Lamman Rucker: Well, primarily because it focuses on education. It’s a big part of who I am, what I’m about, my life is about, what I have come to accept my legacy is going to be about. But also what I believe is my responsibility … giving back, uplifting my community, doing the best I can to touch and inspire and en-

courage, to motivate and mobilize our young people. It is about action not just feeling good, but actually getting up and doing something, you know.

I think there are a lot of people who believe in all the things that we are talking about, but they are not doing anything. I just always try to make it a consistent thread in my life to be active, to stay engaged in the community. There are a lot of people whose lives are significantly different because they didn’t have access to a quality education. They don’t have good teachers around them. They don’t have access to adequate resources. They are suffering from bad leadership. They are suffering from bad politics and policy. So I just think TFA and FedEx’s generous sponsorship of TFA … made perfect sense for us to join forces.

BES: I mentioned to you I had an opportunity to speak to The Three Doctors, and Dr. Rameck Hunt, one of the three, was speaking on our young people. He spoke of a sense of entitlement in terms of American youth, and this hyper-focus on thinking that (they are) going to become the next big rapper, the next Lebron James. As a celebrity, from your perspective, how do we help our kids have a greater sense of reality in terms of what it takes to be successful?

LR: Those are only two things, and that is two of two million different things they can do. The problem is that there is, to use your word “hyper”, exposure to those two things. And the reality is that they are not

learning about ALL the other things they can be. So all they know, unfortunately, because they ain’t been on the planet but for so long, all they know is what they see. So just knowing that, it’s our responsibility to show them more, let them see more, expose them to more possibilities … expose them to other places, other communities, other industries, other jobs.

And what you then begin to expose them to is how much they are capable of doing, some of these other things. Do something that you believe in. Do something that is actually connected to what your purpose or your passion is. Do something that is actually you, not just something that is going to revolve around some public image, and somebody else is going to be shaping that image.

They want to be the center of attention, but they don’t actually know what it takes to actually be in power. They don’t know what it actually takes to actually make some real money. If you think Lebron is making money, imagine how much money the owner of the Heat is making.

If you think Nike can pay Lebron that kind of money for that endorsement, wouldn’t it be smart for you to be a shareholder in Nike? You don’t even have to be the one person who starts Nike, but how about learning how to invest in Nike stock?

(For more of the conversation, visit www.tristatedefender.com. For more information about Teach for America, visit www.teachforamerica.org.)

West Nile virus makes early appearance

The Shelby County Health Department has received confirmation of mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus within the areas of Memphis (zip codes 38116, 38122, 38127), Bartlett (zip code 38133), Germantown (zip code 38125), Collierville (zip code 38017), and unincorporated Shelby County (zip code 38141).

This is the earliest occurrence of positive WNV pools on record in addition to the most positive pools present this early in Shelby County.

Since the middle of April, the Health Department’s Vector Control Program has applied Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-approved larvicides to bodies of water known to produce mosquitoes as part of its proactive effort to decrease the number of mosquitoes. Larviciding is the most effective method of reducing mosquito populations and will continue throughout the summer.

Health Department also will continue to schedule truck-mounted sprayings of EPA-approved insecticides in areas where adult mosquitoes are infected with the virus, weather permitting.

Residents are also encouraged to be vigilant as it relates to controlling mosquito populations around their homes

and businesses by taking the following precautions: • Wear DEET-containing mosquito repellants according to label directions.

• Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can lay eggs.

Check properties for objects – including old tires, flower pots and drip plates, tin cans, buckets, and children’s toys – that collect rainwater and either drain or dispose of the water.

• Install or repair windows and door screens.

• Empty, clean and refill birdbaths and small wading pools weekly.

• Empty and refill pets’ water bowls every few days.

• Repair failed septic systems.

• Repair leaky outside faucets.

• Clean rain gutters and down spouts.

• Secure swimming pool covers tightly and remove any standing water after rainfall.

• Store wheelbarrows, canoes and boats upside down.

• Stock ornamental lawn ponds with mosquito fish (Gambusia), which eat mosquito larvae. (Gambusia fish are available FREE from the Vector Control Program; call (901) 222-9715 for availability.

Humans contract WNV via a bite from an infected mosquito. Although WNV can oc-

West Nile virus is one of several mosquito-borne viruses in the United States that can infect people.

The virus exists in nature primarily through a transmission cycle involving mosquitoes and birds. Mosquitoes become infected with West Nile virus (WNV) when they feed on infected birds. casionally cause severe disease, most human infections are mild, resulting in fever, headache and body aches lasting only a few days.

Symptoms of severe disease include a high fever, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma or convulsions.

Persons over the age of 50, under the age of 5, and those with compromised immune systems are at higher risk of severe disease and should be especially careful to avoid mosquito bites.

“Historically, most human cases of West Nile virus in Shelby County have not occurred until the months of Au-

gust and September,” said Tyler Zerwekh, DrPh, REHS, administrator for Environmental Health Services Bureau at SCHD. “It is however absolutely critical to exercise the recommendations listed above in addition to using mosquito repellants before going outside to work or play, especially during evening and nighttime hours, to help reduce the mosquito burden in Shelby County.”

(A copy of the 2011 WNV report can be found at http://shelbycountytn.gov/inde x.aspx?NID=2404.)