VOL. 61, No. 21
May 24 - 30, 2012
www.tristatedefender.com
75 Cents
Organ donor fight calls for front-row action Daymond John Nicole R. Harris)
(Photo
by
A ‘Shark’ in Memphis!
FUBU founder, “Shark Tank” star talks with TSD
African Americans canʼt be back-row spectators the Mid-South Transplant FoundaANALYSIS
tion. Although not at the root of the debate, it appears the large AfricanAmerican population in Memphis and the Mid-South is certainly a big part of it. Each party has been on a mission to ensure that its side is heard and accepted as the way forward. I have listened, studied, researched and learned more about this topic than I ever thought I would.
besmith@tri-statedefender.com
by Bernal E. Smith II It appears that as has occurred in far too many instances on far too many issues in recent times, a fight has broken out in Memphis. In one corner is Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, and in the other is
A few basic definitions are necessary to understand the matter better: Donor – A person who makes a decision to donate his or her organs upon their death (a living family member or close friend can also make a decision to donate a kidney to a relative or friend in need at any time.) Organ – Heart, lung, kidney and liver, with our focus primarily on kidneys and livers. Primary access – Priority access to available organs.
Stay adaptable
“What are my assets? A globally recognized brand, I know manufacturing and production, whether it’s a shirt or a camera tripod, and I have relationships and credibility with many retailers,” said John. “Now I have to put together those assets to sell them something new. I have to be nimble enough to recognize market trends and opportunities and deploy the assets I have to new profitable business ventures.” Having operated in the ever challenging and changing publishing busiSEE FUBU ON PAGE 2
MEMPHIS WEEKEND
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
H- 9 4o - L - 7 1o Su nny
H- 9 8o - L - 7 2o S unn y
H- 9 3o - L - 7 3o S unn y
REGIONAL TEMPS LITTLE ROCK NASHVILLE JACKSON, MS
Friday H-93 L-72 H-92 L-69 H-94 L-76
Saturday H-097 L-74 H-96 L-71 H-96 L-69
Sunday H-94 L-74 H-93 L-71 H-93 L-70
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Marriage of same sexes boils on as debate topic
besmith@tri-statedefender.com
by Bernal E. Smith II
A few years ago, the unusual occurrence of a Manatee in the Memphis area caused great local buzz and attention. The salt water giant found his way into the waters of the Mighty Mississippi and into the hearts of Memphians as they tracked his movements. Well, in similar fashion we recently had another giant of the sea, a “Shark”, (not the aquatic variety), visit our fair city to much fanfare and accolade. Daymond John, a fashion industry pioneer, is founder of the FUBU clothing line and star of the ABC reality show “Shark Tank,” which features a team of wealthy and successful investors (the Sharks) being pitched by up-and-coming entrepreneurs to invest in their “I have to be fledging business nimble enough ventures. John has emerged as to recognize market trends one of the shrewdest and and most popular opportunities “Sharks” on the and deploy the panel. Still, he remost assets I have to mains for new profitable renowned using hustle, crebusiness ativity and sacriventures.” fice to build a Daymond John multi-billion dollar urban fashion empire from a $40 investment. Following a dynamic presentation (May 17) at the Lipscomb Pitts Breakfast Club at the Memphis Botanic Garden, I talked with John, who shared a glimpse of how he built that success, how he’s maintained it and how he now is expanding his global brand in new industries and arenas. He was particularly candid about the need to reinvent his business model as the fashion industry continues to be impacted by technology and the spending habits of younger generations upon which his business was built.
Secondary access – Access after the sickest person in a local area or the region is served. Several truths exist in the State of Tennessee: The majority of the states AfricanAmerican population lives in West Tennessee and more specifically in Memphis. As is the case in the U.S. in general, African Americans in Greater Memphis face substantial health disparities
Special to the Tri-State Defender
by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell
The ‘Duck’ walk…
The send-off for legendary bassist Donald “Duck” Dunn, who helped create the soulful sounds of Stax records, included a Beale St. procession that included members of his family, various artists, associates and friends. Dancing George set the pace. Dunn, a part of Booker T. and the MGʼs, died May 13 while on tour in Tokyo. He was 70. (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)
Post hazing and clamp on band, FAMU president ponders future NNPA News Service
by Kanya Stewart The Associated Press on Wednesday reported that Robert Champion, the Florida A&M University (FAMU) drum major whose hazing death on a bus Nov. 19 created a furor in colleges and the nation, asked to go through the ritual that led to his death. The report followed a review of 2,300-plus pages of evidence, including statements from students who were there. Meanwhile, Florida A&M University (FAMU) President James H. Ammons continues to work to lead
the institution in overcoming the obstacles of recent hazing incidents. As he does, many wonder how those incidents will impact the future of the university and what steps the university will take to recover. In an exclusive interview with the Capital Outlook, Ammons opened up about calls for his resignation, his rehabilitation plans for the band and how the university plans to deal with the negative attention it has received over the last year.
Q: When asked by reporters why you did not resign, you replied that there are other issues beyond hazing at FAMU. Why do you feel it is
important that you continue to lead the institution at this point? A: My work is still unfinished. One of the most important endeavors is to put in place new anti-hazing initiatives and reform the operation of the band. There are other initiatives that I would like to implement such as increasing the number of graduates in the STEM areas (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), and reducing student indebtedness. I want to increase the number of students earning Ph.D.s in various fields at SEE FAMU ON PAGE 5
Historic…
The Memphis Academy of Health Sciences (MAHS) Charter School sponsored by the 100 Black Men of Memphis, Inc., held its graduation Saturday (May 19) at Golden Gate Baptist Church. The graduating class of 2012 is the first in the schoolʼs nineyear history. MAHS is the first charter school in Tennessee. Renowned attorney Willie Gary was the keynote speaker at the graduation. See related photos, page 12. (Courtesy photo)
If everybody tried to legislate her or his faith, the result would be “a conundrum of confusion,” said Dr. Stacey Spencer, pastor of New Directions Ministry. “Civil matters must be kept separate from religious beliefs. As a Christian pastor, I am compelled to uphold the Biblical definition of marriage, which is a monogamous union between a man and a woman.” Add Spencer to the mix of those expressing pros and cons in the wake of President Barack Obama’s stunning endorsement of gay marriage earlier this month (May 9). The debate has A Biblical reabeen intense, par- son to vote ticularly among the president’s against Mitt must stalwart Romney. See supporters – Opinion, page 4. African Americans. Memphians who weighed in earlier on the issue include The Rev. Dr. William Owens and the Coalition of African American Pastors (CAAP), who insist that the president is undermining the institution of marriage and will lose African-American voters as a result. Spencer told The New Tri-State Defender that as a Christian pastor he is compelled to uphold the Biblical definition of marriage, which he said is a monogamous union between a man and a woman. “But everyone is entitled to civil freedom. We cannot be restricted by law in practicing our religious rites. Others must not be denied their civil right,” said Spencer. “There are more critical issues PresSEE MARRIAGE ON PAGE 2
- INSIDE -
• Holiday drivers urged to think safety and sobriety. See Community, page 7. • Seven points to keep you from eating yourself into oblivion. See Health, page 12.
Donna Summer
• Disco-legend Donna Summer dead at 63. See Entertainment, page 11.
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Tri-State Defender
May 24 - 30, 2012
FUBU
about to hit a tipping point in your business,” said John. “The entrepreneur has to understand what it is that makes them unique and makes their story compelling news. What about your story is going to impact and inform their readers/viewers? “Here is the level of importance of local – whether or not people knew Biggie was from Brooklyn, or know Nellie is from St. Louis or Billy Joel is from Long Island, the record business solely says if you are not a super star in your hood you can’t be any place else,” he said. “The local press was by far the most important thing for us because when we got picked up by them they told everybody that we’re planting a stake in the ground and essentially laid the foundation for the world to recognize what we were building.”
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ness that has been dynamically impacted by technology, I could immediately relate to his statement. “My employees, the folks on my team have to be equally adaptable,” said John. “Whereas they once were manufacturing shirts, I may go to them and say today you’re going to have to do table cloths or hand bags. Not everyone is going to be able to make the leap but in order for us to be successful we’ve got to stay adaptable and anyone in business, a CEO or even a parent, you have be adaptable to changing trends.”
‘Super Heavy Users’
FUBU, “For Us By Us,” represents more than just fashion. It’s a message and a movement signifying the importance of cultural pride and cooperative economics in the market place. Taking that into consideration, I pressed John on the importance of that in practice as an entrepreneur and in the African-American community in general. “We are known in the advertising world as SHUs, “Super Heavy Users”. It’s not necessarily a derogatory term but it means we consume everything. On one hand that translates into collective buying power that is approximately equal to that of the 16th largest country in the world. The issue is that in the African-American community $1 goes in and $.98 comes out and that largely is an issue of financial literacy and intellect, which we have got to increase with each generation. “On one level , whether we are buying more African-
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ident Obama is dealing with: universal health care, high unemployment, education reform, and improving America’s infrastructure. Issues where he has done an outstanding job. And black people are ready to throw him off the train because he expressed a personal opinion? This is ludicrous.” On Saturday (May 19), President Obama got a boost when the national board of the NAACP passed a resolution backing what it termed “marriage equality.” Dr. Warner Dickerson, president of the Memphis Chapter NAACP, amplified the NAACP’s official position. “The NAACP has been protecting the rights of gays for decades. President Obama supports ‘marriage equality.’ Others are entitled to equal protection under the law,” said Dickerson. “We’re not a black supremacist organization. Based on the law of the land, we fight
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that can be exacerbated or improved by policy decisions with the proper understanding and intention. At the heart of the debate is pending implementation (end of 2012) of a 2008 decision by the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) to eliminate a 19-year “organ sharing agreement” more formally known as an Alternative Allocation System (AAS) in Tennessee. Tennessee, Florida and Ohio all had been operating under similar long-term exceptions to current policy. UNOS is a private non-profit contracted with the Department of Health and Human Services. A review of UNOS’s website reveals some of their key functions: Managing the national transplant waiting list, matching donors to recipients 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Maintaining the database that contains all organ transplant data for every transplant event that occurs in the U.S. Bringing together members to develop policies that make the best use of the limited supply of organs and giving all patients a fair chance at receiving the organ they need, regardless of age, sex, ethnicity, religion, lifestyle or financial/social status. Monitoring every organ match to ensure organ allocation policies are followed. UNOS determined in 2008
‘Understand your value’ TSD President and Publisher Bernal E. Smith II caught “Shark Tank” star Daymond John, FUBU founder, with a lot to say. (Photo by Nicole R. Harris) American products or more Louis Vuitton. we have got to stop being heavy consumers and become heavier savers and investors. Ultimately, should African Americans be supporting African-American owned business? Yes, but make sure universally you are supporting businesses that are actually supporting and building the community and reinvesting in the community.”
Fame and success
John has certainly realized a good deal of new fame and success from his stint on the ABCTV hit show “Shark Tank” and
against prejudice and bigotry in political, social, religious and racial inequality. We uphold the legal position, and that is equality for everyone.” Emphasizing that marriage is “between a man and woman,” Dr. William M. Young Sr., founding Bishop of The Memphis Healing Center, said, “We must not compromise the precepts God has set for us. But our community must continue to present a united front behind our president. Who agrees with everything someone else believes?” Righteousness cannot be legislated, said Young. “Each of us has the right to choose what kind of lifestyle we will lead. None of us is free until all of us are free, someone said. We must continue to stand with President Obama in his re-election campaign. It’s the right thing to do.” Dr. Edward Parker, pastor Berean Baptist Church, said the church is called to exemplify love, not to condemn a persons of a different persuasion. “This does not mean that that the AAS in Tennessee (Florida and Ohio as well) created unfair advantages and potential disadvantages to some programs providing organ procurement services (collection and distribution) when the goal is always the highest level of fairness to the sickest patient on the list. Complex and frequently reviewed rules govern how available donated organs are distributed on a state, regional and nationwide basis. The decision has caused much dispute on its impact and the steps that should be taken because of it. Methodist, in partnership with University of Tennessee, has one of the area’s largest liver and kidney transplant programs. Le Bonheur operates the only pediatric liver program in Tennessee, Mississippi and Arkansas.
he talked about his future in the reality television arena. “There are more shows in my future. Whether I am in front of the camera or behind it is the key,” said John. “At this point, I am being called a celebrity. However, I consider myself a notable person (versus a celebrity), but I am a businessman first. If I never go on another show again, but I am behind the scenes of successful money making shows, I will be just as happy. For right now I am hyper focused on what I am doing with my current show. My tunnel vision at the moment is to do that well, help the
Christians don’t uphold God’s definition of marriage. Our president simply expressed an opinion that others have a right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” said Parker. “The fact that pastors are telling their members to stay at home or vote for the other candidate shows poor academics in rightly dividing the Word of God. It’s an irresponsible position to take and seeks to violate a person’s free choice – a gift that God, Himself, gave to each of us. The Bible was used to maintain and justify slavery. Can we now use it to treat others unfairly?” The Rev. Larry S. Lewis, pastor of Wisdom, Knowledge and Understanding Ministries, noted that President Obama is a politician and not his pastor. “Daniel worked under a ruler with pagan beliefs. Joseph served under pharaoh, an idol worshipper. When it comes down to choosing Obama or Romney, I choose Obama,” said Lewis. “He is wrong about gay rights, and his pastor should explain that to him.”
The Methodist position
I recently had a conversation with Dr. James Eason, transplant surgeon with Methodist and passionate advocate for greater access to more organ donors for Memphis and the Mid-South. He shared a framework and direction to more resources to understand Methodist’s position on the issue. Methodist’s position is that the recent UNOS policy change resulted in Methodist losing primary access to the 5.5 million potential donors that live east of Jackson, Tenn., except Carroll County, including the remainder of Tennessee, parts of Kentucky and parts of North Carolina and Virginia. The defined area that it will have primary access in has two million SEE ORGAN ON PAGE 3
people that I have an opportunity to help through that forum and build to help that brand reach as high a level of success as possible,” he said. “Down the road I will be in a better position to leverage this and think about the development of other shows. “
Local press power
During his 42-minute, auto-
biographic presentation at the Lipscomb Pitts Breakfast Club, John discussed – to my pleasant surprise – the importance of the local press in the initial success of his business and meteoric rise as a global brand. “The local newspapers and publications were the first to write about us and begin to educate the world about the uniqueness of our story. I believe that the local press is the most important element when you are
As we wrapped up our conversation, John left a word of advice for TSD readers and particularly up-and-coming entrepreneurs. “Nobody in the world, whether you are white, black, yellow or green, is going to make your dream happen for you,” said John. “If you are a CEO or entrepreneur, you cannot depend on someone else to make success happen for you. “You must understand your value and be able to communicate that, and more importantly, execute on it. It is what will attract resources and opportunities to you.”
Tri-State Defender
ORGAN
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people or potential donors, including all of Tennessee west of Jackson, parts of North Mississippi and parts of Eastern Arkansas. Each of these areas is served by a local Organ Procurement Organization (OPO) charged with procuring organs from donors and ensuring they are legally and ethically provided to the sickest individuals on the list of those seeking organ transplants. Under the AAS, both areas of Tennessee and both OPOs combined to form one “local” area. After the termination of the agreement, these areas are now autonomous local areas that are a part of a five state region (Tennessee, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Kentucky). The Mid-South Transplant Foundation (MSTF) is the OPO serving the area west of Jackson. Tennessee Donor Services (based in Nashville) serves the area east of Jackson. Methodist asserts that its primary access will be limited to one of the smallest OPO’s (Mid-South) in the nation, reducing Methodist’s liver access by up to 75 percent, and drastically reducing the number of patients it is able to transplant each year. This, Methodist argues, will limit patient access to organs, causing deaths while on waiting list for organs from other areas. Methodist has filed a waiver to petition the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (under the Department of Health and Human Services) to allow them to partner directly with Tennessee Donor Services as their primary OPO, increasing their access to a larger donor pool. It appears that Mid-South had approximately 62 donors (200 organs procured) while Tennessee Donor Services had approximately 200 donors. To avoid the consequences of this decision, Methodist presents two options. The primary proposed option from Methodist is for MSTF to merge with Tennessee Donor Services (TDS), with TDS being the surviving entity. This would create one sole OPO and one local area for Tennessee, giving Methodist primary access to all of the organs, particularly livers on a primary basis. The second best solution, according to Methodist, was the waiver that was submitted. Methodist has requested that people in the community write letters to CMS in support of the waiver.
The MSTF view
Seeking fairness and a thorough understanding of the issue, I did further research and spoke with a team from MidSouth Transplant Foundation (MSTF). MSTF argues that the elimination of the Alternative Allocation System (AAS) actually is a good for those patients most in need of an organ because it gives them equal access to available organs. According to MSTF, the AAS allowed organs to become available faster for the transplant centers in the state before they were allocated to the larger five-state region, making it easier for patients that could simply afford to pay to receive an organ faster. From the MSTF view, the elimination of the AAS levels the playing field for organ recipients and gives them equal access to organs no matter how much money they have or where they live. MTSF states that Methodist will still have access to enough livers to treat local patients. Methodist may not, however, have primary access to the organs they need to support patients from out-of-state that are primarily private pay or private insurance patients. So in one corner Methodist claims that the issue is about greater access; and in the other corner MTSF says it is about fairer access based on need, not ability to pay.
Digging deeper
In seeking further clarification, I discovered some interesting facts. UNOS Assistant General Counsel, Jason P. Livingston, stated that its Liver Committee recommended, its Policy Committee agreed and its “Board of Directors voted in its November 2008 meeting to discontinue the Tennessee Statewide liver alternative allo-
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May 24 - 30, 2012
cation.” They also subsequently declined appeals to that decision, however implementation was delayed by a major computer system re-write. The new program is expected to be effective in fall of 2012, allowing for implementation of the new rules in late 2012. So ultimately the decision impacts only how livers are allocated not kidneys or other organs. Further investigation on minorityhealth.hhs.gov, organdonor.gov and several other sources revealed the following in summary: As of May 4, 2012,
Methodist had a waitlist for kidneys of 505, with only 77 patients awaiting livers. MTSF has the highest percentage of African-American donors of all OPOs in the country in the 9th largest African-American market in the nation. In 2011, MSTF had 43 percent African-American donor while its Nashville counterpart, TDS, had 11 percent. This is obviously reflective of the demographics in both areas, but still significant. Even more revealing are the following stats:
From 2008 to 2011, no less than 65 percent of Methodist Transplant Institute’s kidney transplants were to AfricanAmerican patients During the same period, no more than 18 percent of the liver transplants performed annually were to African-American patients while approximately 77 percent were to white patients I will also add that a ride around our community reveals a proliferation of dialysis clinics, the impact of rampant diabetes and the high need for kidney transplants, particularly for African Americans.
Time to get engaged
All of the conversations, research and data bring me to the conclusion that although the change in primary availability of livers statewide is an issue, it is not one with high impact to the African-American community directly. This does not mean the community should not weigh in on the issue. In fact, I employ our readers to take this opportunity to learn, enhance our voice on this and other health issues and become donors. (www. donatelifetn.org)
The fact that we are affected in any way must translate into us being affected and inspired to action and pro-action that provides greater access to organs, blood, plasma and other life saving donated life resources. We must become more than back-row spectators in these fights. We must choose to be active participants to ensure we understand the ramifications of decisions being made. And we must actively engage to reduce health disparities through policy change, healthy habits that promote wellness, and better access to enhanced quality healthcare.
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OPINION
Tri-State Defender
May 24 - 30, 2012
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
Flex your (political) muscles
A college degree, what’s it worth these days? New America Media
by Kelly Goff
That seems to be the topic on everyone’s mind as millions of American students head toward graduation this month. And by everyone, I don’t mean my classmates, the ones who have scrimped, saved, borrowed and begged to pay for their degrees. I mean the professors, parents and education reporters who just can’t stop talking about how bleak the job market is for new graduates. According to a recent Associated Press analysis of government data, 53.6 of bachelor’s degree-holders under the age of 25 are unemployed or underemployed. News flash: the job market is tough for everyone. It has been since before we entered college. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate in 2000 was at a 30year low at 4 percent. We are now hovering around 8 percent, and that’s pretty positive. Still, in 2000, 41 percent of bachelor’s degree-holders under the age of 25 were unemployed or underemployed. It’s not just college students being hit hard by the economy, or even being hit much harder, but it seems we are just a focus group that has been spotlighted. Maybe because we know this, and because we know that it’s going to be difficult, none of my classmates are asking each other where they’re going to be working after graduation, but rather we are asking each other what we’re going to be doing. For some, it’s time to decompress, travel and start exploring the world. After navigating the labyrinth of paperwork and red tape of completing an ever-more-challenging requirement list, it’s time to take some time. For others, yes, it’s time to work. And this may be at our retail, waitressing or freelance jobs. But if it pays the bills, then it’s ok for the time being. No college degree can ever guarantee a job. And even if it does, it can never guarantee a job you’ll love. In a good job market or a bad job market, an education has more worth
than the monetary value that a Gallup poll places on it, and the more I think about it, the more I begin to resent this monetization of the college experience. Thirteen years after graduating high school, I’m about to finally obtain my bachelor’s degree. Perhaps because I took time off, went out there in the “real world” and found positions that were well-paying and didn’t require a college degree, it doesn’t feel like I’ve wasted my time or my money to get this degree. Those jobs might have paid the bills, but they didn’t make me happy. As cliché as it may sound, the degree is about learning, about gaining knowledge and skills that will serve me well in any job that I do end up obtaining. Critical thinking, multitasking and the expansion of my worldview cannot be measured in a starting salary. Yes, I might have to wait tables a little longer than I’d like, but if there’s anything that the last decade has taught me, it is that my degree holds more value than the dollar amount someone is willing to pay me just to see it on a resume. It has also taught me that for those willing, able and determined, there is a place in the workforce. It may not be in their field of study, but it may be something that they love even more. Those graduates who will get jobs are either in one of the few fields that have lots of openings, or the ones who are willing to try, try, and try again no matter how many rejections – or worse yet, unreturned phone calls – they must face. They will take unpaid or low-paid internships (now that’s a whole other conversation) and hope to work their way up. They will sling burgers or fold cardigans until whatever debt they’ve accumulated is paid off, hopefully taking on projects that interest them on the side until they can secure a full-time position. Despite all the reports of doom and gloom, don’t worry about us. We’re going to be just fine.
(Kelly Goff is graduating from San Francisco State University with a degree in journalism.)
FACEBOOK FAN OF THE WEEK Devirick Watson
Our Facebook fan of the week is Devirick Watson – a graduate of Woodale High School and Austin Peay State University, with a degree in business administration. He is also a 2013 candidate for an MBA at Bethel University. Watson and his wife, Latasha, are proud parents of a beautiful family and they all appear to be big fans of the Grizzlies, Yankees and that football team in Dallas. An entrepreneur in the public relations and marketing business, his company is Screen Talk Media, www.screentalkmedia.com. He will be presenting at the upcoming Networking in Memphis event on May 30. Watson has also agreed to serve as a volunteer ambassador during upcoming TSD events. He is a young man that understands how to build business. We appreciate his willingness to serve and say thank you to Mr. Watson for being a part of the TSD Facebook family. Your letters to the editor are welcome. For verification, please include your name, address and telephone number. Mail to: In The Mail, Tri-State Defender, 203 Beale St., Ste. 200, Memphis, TN 38103 E-mail: inthemail@tri-statedefender.com Maximum length: 300 words (subject to editing for clarity)
IN THE MAIL
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
DISTRIBUTION: Tri-State Defender is available at newsstands, street sales, store vendors, mail subscription and honor boxes throughout the Greater Memphis area. No person may, without prior written permission of the Tri-State Defender, reprint any part of or duplicate by electronic device any portion without written permission. Copyright 2012 by Tri-State Defender Publishing, Inc. Permission to Publisher, Tri-State Defender, 203 Beale Street, Suite 200, Memphis, TN. 38103. Back copies can be obtained by calling the Tri-State Defender at (901) 523-1818, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays.
A Biblical reason to vote against Mitt Romney
After President Obama expressed his personal support for same-sex marriage, there has been a robust discussion among African Americans about whether his stance will make African-American voters less likely to support him in November. A poll conducted by The Pew Research Center For the People & The Press found that 68 percent of African Americans said Obama’s announcement did not change their view of him. Of those who did alter their perception of the president, 16 percent said his decision caused them to view him more favorably and 13 percent less favorably. As the debate over gay marriage seemed to be receding from the public stage, the NAACP gave the issue new life Saturday when its board passed a resolution in support of what it artfully calls marriage equality. After adopting the resolution over the weekend, Board Chair Roslyn M. Brock, President and CEO Benjamin Todd Jealous, and board member Donald L. Cash held a press conference Monday in Baltimore to announce what they had already announced. Even some supporters of same-sex marriage question why the NAACP is spending so much capital on this issue, considering all of the problems plaguing the African-American community. The NAACP’s latest announcement comes less than two weeks after the organization announced that it has initiated a national voter registration drive to help overcome recently-erected barriers designed to dilute the African-American vote. Of course, that’s not the only problem facing AfricanAmericans. As the National Urban League observed in its 2012 State of Black America report: “Our analysis of data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics will clearly establish that whether one looks at education, income or any other meaningful measure, almost all the economic gains that blacks have made in the last 30 years have been lost in the Great Recession that started in December 2007 and in the anemic recovery that has followed since June, 2009.” And there is also the issue of HIV/AIDS. According to Centers for Disease Control data analyzed by the Kaiser Family Foundation, AfricanAmerican women accounted for 64 percent of all new AIDS diagnoses among women in 2010 and 85 percent of the African-American women were infected through heterosexual activity. There is a similar disparity among teens. Although African-American teens represent only 17 percent of those aged 13-19 in the United States, they accounted for 70 percent of new AIDS diagnoses among teens in 2012. Undoubtedly, the debate will continue over how the NAACP should spend its limited resources and whether President Obama should have weighed in on what is essentially a state matter. However, some supporters of same-sex marriage are making the mistake of minimizing the views of many who believe that a marriage should be a union between a man and a woman. This may be more of a religious issue than a racial one.
A poll conducted by the Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life found: “More than half of African Americans (53 percent) report attending religious services at least once a week, George E. more than threeCurry in-four (76 percent) say they Undoubtedly, pray on at least a the debate will daily basis and continue over nearly nine-in(88 percent) how the NAACP ten indicate they are should spend absolutely certain its limited that God exists. resources and On each of these measures, whether African AmeriPresident cans stand out as Obama should the most relihave weighed giously committed racial or ethin on what is nic group in the essentially a nation.” state matter. Regardless of where one comes down on the issue, it is the height of political naiveté to expect that we will ever find any politician with whom we can agree on every issue. And the nation’s first African-American president is no exception. Opponents of same-sex marriage are quick to quote Leviticus 18:22, which states: “Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is an abomination (KJV).” If we are going to apply a singleissue test to President Obama, Mitt Romney should not be given a pass. The Bible also says in Deuteronomy 15:7, “If there be among you a poor man of one of thy bretheren within any of thy gates in thy land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shall not harden thine heart, nor shut thine hand from thy poor brother (KJV).” And what does Romney say about the poor? “I’m in this race because I care about Americans. I’m not concerned about the very poor. We have a safety net there. If it needs repair, I’ll fix it,” he said in an interview with CNN. “I’m not concerned about the very rich; they’re doing just fine. I’m concerned about the very heart of America, the 90 percent, 95 percent of Americans who right now are struggling.” Romney’s support of Republican proposals in Congress designed to gut the safety net is further proof that he is not concerned about the very poor. If some African-Americans, albeit a small number, are seriously considering voting against President Obama solely because they do not agree with his views on same-sex marriage, they should apply a litmus test to Romney and vote against him because he’s not concerned about the very poor.
(George E. Curry, editor-in-chief of the National Newspaper Publishers Association News Service, can be reached through his Web site, www.georgecurry.com and followed at www.twitter.com/currygeorge.)
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November is only six short months away, so the 2012 campaign for the White House is moving fullspeed ahead. With more than 274 million Americans connected to the Internet, you probCheryl ably won’t be Pearsonsurprised that we McNeil have converged upon the Internet for any and all tidbits surrounding the presidential candidates since the beginning of the year. I think it’s fascinating to see which candidates attracted the most visitors to their sites. Don’t you? Aw, come on, aren’t you a little curious? Nielsen recently profiled the voter-age audience (18+) to see who was checking out which of the (once upon a time not so long ago) five presidential candidates. The sample was extensive, covering 15 different sites during January 2012, including: ABCNEWS Digital Network, CBS News Network, CNN Digital Network, Daily Kos, drudgereport.com, Fox News Digital Network, Google News, Huffington Post, MSNBC Digital Network, NPR, NYTimes.com, Politico, USATODAY.com, Wall Street Journal Digital and Yahoo! News Websites. Any of those among your favorites? In January, President Obama’s site received more unique American adult visitors than the four Republican candidates’ sites combined. (“Unique” is defined by web analytics as unduplicated or counting only once to a website over a specified time period, as opposed to “new” or “returning.”) Hispanics comprised 17 percent of MittRomney.com, 37 percent more Hispanics than were active online during the entire month of January 2012 (12 percent). RickSantorum.com attracted the lion’s share of women visitors (60 percent), which was the largest male/female split among the candidates. Interestingly, 76-year-old Ron Paul, the oldest of the Republican hopefuls, drew the youngest visitors. More than a third of his hits were from members of the 18-34 group. Though it was almost neckand-neck with Newt Gingrich with male visitors, 56 percent and 51 percent, respectively, RonPaul2012.com won by 4.3 percentage points. Newt Gingrich’s website guests were the most affluent and educated. Twenty-seven percent reported earnings of more than $100K and half had either a Bachelor’s or PostGraduate degree. The analysis of why American voters visit which sites is up to the political pundits. Part of the research Nielsen conducted also focused on the News & Information sites that feature political content. Are you surprised to learn that Google News wins the race for the highest concentration of young visitors, those 1824? Survey results showed that 23 percent more 18-34 year olds visited Google News in January 2012 than were active online. (It is heartening to me to know that our young people are interested, engaged and involved in our political process. My son is only a few years away from legally casting his first vote. Sigh.) More results: The next age demographic, Americans 25-49, are most likely to visit Politico and Drudge Report (31 percent). Of all the sites studied, NPR enjoyed the largest growth in visitors (up 21 percent since October 2011). 28 percent of visitors to Wall Street Journal Digital have a household income of $100K or more. Surfers who land on the Drudge Report page were most likely to have a Bachelor’s degree, which is more than double the percentage of all active college grad Internet users (36 percent vs. 17 percent). College graduates were more likely to visit a specific candidate’s site than visit a News & Information site. I’m always telling you that knowledge is power, and stressing how you wield power as consumers and how important it is that we pick and choose to use that power wisely. Well, I hope you don’t tire of hearing me stress this point. This election is important – no matter which side of the political aisle you may stand on. Read. Watch. Listen. Learn – so you can make the most informed decision possible. The choice and power are in your hands. (NNPA columnist Cheryl PearsonMcNeil is senior vice president of Public Affairs and Government Relations for Nielsen. For more information, visit www.nielsenwire.com.)
Tri-State Defender
FAMU
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
FAMU and increase the research dollars and research capabilities of the university. We want to expand distance learning programs and improved retention and graduation rates. We are working on some critical initiatives including the construction of an 800-bed suite style residential facility, the launch of a new satellite campus in Crestview, Fla. and the launch of a $50 million comprehensive campaign. FAMU needs strong consistent leadership, I believe I can continue to provide that leadership. I will be here as long as the FAMU Board of Trustees allows me to serve.
Q: Do you feel that the Board of Trustees is standing behind your decision not to resign? A: I am unable to speak for the Board of Trustees, but I will serve as president as long as they allow me to serve.
Q: Due to recent (hazing) incidents, students have been harmed, families disappointed, and FAMU’s reputation has been questioned. You once said that FAMU should focus on the triumphs and not just the trials. What is your vision for helping the morale to be boosted, confidence to be restored and information to be distributed to get people to focus on the triumph? A: It is important to understand that all ongoing investigations must be completed before we can fully focus on FAMU’s triumphs. Once those are done, we can more effectively move forward on fixing some of the issues that arose and focusing on a variety of positive programs and accomplishments that are underway. To assist us on that front, we are in the process of developing a public relations campaign that will remind everyone what a wonderful university FAMU is. Q: You have decided to keep the band suspended. When do you feel you would be satisfied that the band and other student organizations are back on track and have learned to move beyond the traditions of hazing? A: In reviewing the band program since Mr. (Robert) Champion’s (hazing-related) death, we believe that we need to put additional controls in place to ensure that something like this never happens again. We need adequate time to implement recommendations regarding the organizational and management structure of the band, membership requirements, travel procedures, assessment of revenue to support the band and the fiscal environment. Our plan is to strengthen oversight, while implementing additional controls, including a separation of duties between the chair of the music department and the director of bands. We also plan to implement
NATION
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May 24 - 30, 2012
NCAA-like rules on academic progression, grade point average and the length of service.
Q: Do you think downsizing the band will assist in the ability to have more watchful oversight over its activities? A: Reducing the size of the Marching 100 has been recommended as a means for having greater oversight. We will present to the Board of Trustees a succinct plan for addressing some of the short-term issues related to the marching band and the Music Department.
Q: Why do you think the value of FAMU seems to have been overlooked by the general public or media in recent years? A: I think FAMU had been developing such a solid reputation and had been making such great strides, that some people took it for granted. Also, the mainstream media focuses more on controversy than good news. We are now focusing on creating a communication strategy that gives us the opportunity to tell our own story to the people that matter the most to us.
Q: What is the university’s goal to “clean up” FAMU’s image among future students, current students, alumni and the general public? A: First, we must see what the outcomes are of the pending investigations. Until each is completed, the issues related to the Robert Champion incident will continue to surface. We plan to clean up the uni-
versity image by making sure an incident like this never happens again. We have taken various measures already and have: Indefinitely suspended the Marching “100” to include the 2012-2013 academic year; appointed an internal crisis management team headed by Dr. Larry Robinson, then-special assistant to the president; addressed members of the FAMU National Alumni Association, the Business Industry Cluster and other stakeholders via teleconference regarding anti-hazing activities; directed that all allegations and criminal activity are immediately brought to my attention; FAMU Campus Housing holds a mandatory meeting for campus residents to discuss campus safety and anti-hazing efforts; temporarily suspended summer band camp and new membership intake for student organizations; announced a $50,000 research initiative for FAMU faculty to study the nature and extent of hazing behaviors among campus organizations and groups; and amended hazing regulation to include a 24-hour reporting rule for faculty, staff and students as well as a provision against retaliation…. At the June meeting (of the Board of Trustees), we will present our plan on how we will bring the “Marching 100” back and the strategy for the music department. In addition, we will also provide details about the guidelines for new membership intake for student organizations.
Q: Is there a plan in place for increased recruitment and marketing campaigns? A: Yes, we are discussing a campaign as we address some of the issues surfacing as a result of the Robert Champion incident. There is, however, tremendous momentum at FAMU as we continue to raise the bar for academic excellence, while also striving to attract the best mix of students. Looking at the bigger picture, enrollment at FAMU has increased nearly 11 percent since 2006, while the average GPA of our students has risen more than 5 percent within that time frame. FAMU was also recently honored as one of “America’s Most Popular Colleges” by U.S. News & World Report, a distinction that reflects the percentage of applicants accepted by a college who end up enrolling at that institution. (Online: FAMU supporters: Rattlers will ‘strike’ again) (Special to the NNPA from the Capital Outlook.)
Quarterback-in-chief…
President Barack Obama throws a football on the field at Soldier Field following the NATO working dinner in Chicago on May 20. (White House photo by Pete Souza)
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BUSINESS
Tri-State Defender
May 24 - 30, 2012
ON OUR WAY TO WEALTHY
Have setup, will travel
‘Two Drink Minimum’ For the social-minded folks that prefer to party at home or organize their own events, Brian Bailey is at your service. With years of bartending experience under his belt, Bailey decided that the time was right to launch his own company appropriately titled, Two Drink Minimum. He brings his own setup and will do as much – or as little – as the client needs for the event.
Carlee McCullough: What type of services does Two Drink Minimum offer? Brian Bailey: Full bartending services that can be shaped for whatever kind of event that’s going on. Whether there is a bar, no bar, inside or outside, day or night, Two Drink Minimum will give your event the look of a professional, full bar staying within the budget that is set.
CM: How did you come up with the concept for Two Drink Minimum? BB: Having years of experience working different bars, restaurants and clubs, I was frequently asked to do different private parties and weddings. But people didn’t know all that it entailed. So I formed Two Drink Minimum (TDM), which is a pretty catchy name, to completely handle the beverage part of the party or event. If the refreshments are perfectly in place, no one will say anything. But if they are not in place, your party will definitely get a bad word or two.
CM: As a business owner, have you been open to advice along the way? And do you believe new businesses should be open to such advice? BB: I am always open to advice because there is always someone who has succeeded in the same thing that we are working towards. If we are not open to advice, we can’t gage where we are taking our business.
Carlee McCullough
CM: What has been your most memorable moment with Two Drink Minimum? BB: I do a huge Halloween party every year and hundreds show up. The costumes and characters that come out are always most memorable.
CM: What has been the most disappointing moment with Two Drink Minimum? BB: Sometimes I work Brian certain events Bailey put on by inexperienced networkers who think that they will get rich from a party. They lack planning and the focus is on the wrong thing. CM: What is the greatest reward in running your own business? BB: Having people contact me to do their event because of the great time they had at another event that I worked. CM: That’s great. Would you say now is the best time (in this economy) to become an entrepreneur? BB: It is and it is due to the economy. But do your work and then do your work again. Too many of us fail because we see the finish line and are not willing to bang the bricks first. CM: Many small businesses are under-capitalized, what advice can you provide them in getting over that hurdle? BB: Operate within your means
or partner up.
CM: What contributes to the success of an entrepreneur? BB: Product, audience and cost! Your product or service has to have appeal. Your product or service has to cater to an audience that needs it on a large level. Your product or service has to have a cost to it that the audience won’t mind spending money on it on a continuous basis.
CM: Do you notice any new trends in the marketplace? If so, what are they? BB: It is easier to brand yourself these days. With all of the dayparties and networking events, not to mention the Internet, one could really get their name and business service out to the market. CM: If you had one piece of advice to give to someone just starting out in your field, what would it be? BB: Customer service!!!!
CM: What is next for Brian and/or Two Drink Minimum? BB: I will continue to do events and party’s here and there. I have thought about expanding to a larger crew but not sure right now. The level of service and professionalism will continue, which will keep TDM in action. CM: Any closing remarks? BB: The windshield on a car is so much bigger than the rearview mirror because what’s ahead of you is so much more important than what’s behind you. Let’s move forward in a positive way and make a positive change together (Contact Two Drink Minimum at: baileybt324@yahoo.com) (Contact Carlee McCullough, Esq., at 5308 Cottonwood Road, Suite 1A, Memphis, Tenn. 38118, or email her at jstce4all@aol.com.)
MONEY MATTERS
Doing your heirs a favor The passing of a loved one is never easy for friends and family, but it can be even more difficult if the survivors do not have the information they need to make decisions and take care of final arrangements. Legal documents such as a will and powers of attorney are important, but a letter of instructions – which is not a legal document – could be just as advantageous for your heirs. It enables you to express your final wishes and provide guidance regarding the many personal and financial matters that your heirs may face after your passing. A letter of instructions can convey any information that might help your loved ones. Here are some topics to consider addressing in the letter. People to contact, such as attorneys, financial professionals, insurance agents, and accountants. The location of important documents, including your will, insurance policies, birth certificate, marriage and/or divorce papers, Social Security and Medicare cards, tax returns, vehicle titles, and deeds to real property. Your wishes for final arrangements such as a memorial or funeral service and organ donation. Information on your bank and retirement accounts, including account numbers, PINs, and passwords. A list of creditors and the location
of bills. A description of any important information to be found on your computer, including login IDs and passwords. Store your letter in a safe, yet accessible place; tell Charles Sims your loved ones where they can find Jr., CFP it; and give copies to the executor of your estate and other trusted individuals. Because some information in the letter may change over time, consider updating it regularly. It may not be pleasant to think about what might happen after you’re gone, but leaving a clear letter of instructions could be a final act of gratitude for your heirs. (Charles Sims Jr. is President/ CEO of The Sims Financial Group. Contact him at 901-682-2410 or visit www.SimsFinancialGroup.com. The information in this article is not intended to be tax or legal advice, and it may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. You are encouraged to seek tax or legal advice from an independent professional advisor.)
Methodist South names ‘Nurse of the Year’
Charles Lapsley, a Methodist South Hospital registered nurse, was recently named Nurse of the Year. Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare (MLH) recognizes outstanding nurses during the annual Nursing Stars Celebration. The event recognizes the exceptional women and men who define the patient- and familycentered care MLH is committed to providing. This year’s celebration was held at the Memphis Hilton. Nursing Stars are selected from each Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare facility. From the Nursing Stars, one Nurse of the Year is
chosen from each facility, and recognized at the ceremony. Candidates are nominated by their peers based on the following criteria: professionalism, interpersonal relations, Charles community inLapsley volvement, innovation, patient- and family-centered care, and the science of nursing.
COMMUNITY
Tri-State Defender
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May 24 - 30, 2012
BRIEFS & THINGS
Holiday drivers urged to think safety and stay sober
Mentoring institute names men & women of the year
The 110 Institute, a Memphisbased youth development & research firm, has announced its 2012 “Men of the Year” and for the first time, its two “Women of the Year”. Recipients are selected based on their outstanding contributions to young urban men in the Memphis metropolitan area. They are: Fred Tillman, CEO of Century Management; Shelby County District Atty. Gen. Amy Weirich; Memphis Police Director Toney Armstrong; News Channel 3 Morning Anchor Markova Reed. The 110 Institute has hosted the “Man of the House” Mentoring Event for the past three years on Father’s Day weekend, bringing together 110 boys from single-parent homes, and 75 “real men” to share philosophy, new skills, a tour of the Civil Rights Museum, T-shirts, lunch, and literacy improvement. This year, the “Man of the House” Mentoring Event will be June 16 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m, and is sponsored by the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, Independent Bank, the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc, Cumulus Broadcasting, Motley Internal Medicine, and the Black Rose Foundation for Children. For more information, to sponsor a participant, or to register a young man (12-18) for the Event, call Tony Nichelson at 901-3362399, or email anthony.nichelson @cumulus.com.
Full professorship for Dr. Hendrix at U of M
Dr. Katherine Grace Hendrix was promoted to full professor in the Department of Communication at the University of Memphis during the 2011-12 academic year. According to Department of Education statistics, only 1 out of every 4 professors ever earns this status and of those earning this rank only 28 Dr. Katherine out of 100 are Grace Hendrix female with less than 1.5 out of every 100 being an African-American female. Dr. Hendrix is the only AfricanAmerican female professor in the Department of Communication since the retirement of Dr. Erma Clanton. She is also the recipient of the 2011-12 Dean’s Research Award in the College of Communication and Fine Arts and the Michael Osborn Teacher-Scholar Award (honoring career achievement in teaching, research, and service) presented in San Antonio, Texas at the annual meeting of the Southern States Communication Association.In addition, she will be a panelist at the National Communication Association (NCA) conference in November recognizing her excellence in teaching and mentoring students. An active member of Zion CME Church, Hendrix serves as a stewardess and chairs the History Committee.
BRIEFLY: The Memphis Greek Unity Celebration extends Thursday through Saturday (May 24-26), and includes a 5K walk/run that will direct proceeds to Big Brothers Big Sisters. The “Memphis Loves Our Kids 5K Walk/Run, sponsored by State Farm Insurance, begins at 9 a.m. at Audubon Park, with registration at 8 a.m. Registration also available at www.memphis5K.com and State Farm locations. For more information, call 901-343-4741; visit www.memphisgreekpicnic.com. BRIEFLY: THE Universal Commercial Regional Power Breakfast, featuring Elliot Perry, Leadership Memphis’ “Leader of the Year,” will be from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. on June 1 at the University Club of Memphis at 1346 Central Ave. In 2011, Perry, a former college and pro basketball player, established Memphis Education Champions to aid local education reform efforts. BRIEFLY: Registration starts on June 1 for Memphis City Schools summer academic programs and specialty camps for students in grades K-12. MCS provides a 31page summer programs and camps catalog with course descriptions, enrollment dates/times/locations, meal information, fees and contact information. The catalog is available at www.mcsk12.net/docs/ 2012%20Summer%20School %20Booklet.pdf. For more information, call the MCS Office of Student Support Services at 901-4167622. BRIEFLY: STEP (Support and Training for Exceptional Parents) will host a Communication, Negotiation Skills and Conflict Resolution workshop from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital on June 9.Register with Esther McCoy at 901-726-4334.
TSD staff report
Well deserved…
Congressman Steve Cohen on Tuesday (May 22) presented the son of T.O. Jones with a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition for Jonesʼ role during the 1968 sanitation strike. Jones, who died in 1989, was president of Local 1733 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) at the time of the strike. T.O. Jones passed away on April 12, 1989. The 1,300 workers who took part in the strike were inducted into the U.S. Dept. of Labor Hall of Fame last year. (Courtesy photo)
With new tools in hand, teacher helps students grasp math Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Dena L. Owens
Everyone agrees that teachers should perform to the best of their abilities to increase student academic performance in public schools. How they achieve that goal has been a hot topic, as it should be. Angela Staples, a ten-year, 6thgrade instructor at Ridgeway Middle School, uses several tools to strengthen her teaching effectiveness in a subject many of cringe to think about – math. One method she uses to help children “get it” is called Reflective Practice. The strategy is simple – she films herself teaching for later critique. “The camera in the classroom motivates me,” said Staples, who reviews the video to see what she can do differently and to identify students who may not be catching on. “Using the video, I see immediate results in my students after making adjustments. One of them said, ‘I hated math before I came to your class.’ It was a daily challenge, but that student learned and now he’s excited about coming to school.” In using new teaching strategies, Staples said her 6th-graders better understand math problems using independent and dependent variables (the x and y functions used to find linear relationships). Grasping these lessons now will help them as they
Angela Staples
move into advanced Algebra courses. “My students now understand how math works and how it plays a role in work they may pursue someday, such as designing things and architecture. I think this inspires them to learn
more,” she said. Staples credits video reflections for her recent breakthroughs. “When you’re in the moment,” you don’t catch everything” she said. “The video has been a real help.” She also points to a supportive principal who allows her to establish smaller groups in the classroom, since “some students learn quickly while others need more instruction.” Grouping helps Staples collect data on students who learn at different levels. “We study a lesson as a whole class then break into groups, so everyone’s learning at the same time,” she said. The math instructor creates optional tasks for learners who progress quickly, such as making PowerPoint presentations on a specific lesson, which can benefit the entire class.
Miss Jabberwock, Storm Kimbrow, and the Jewel Court helped raised scholarship funds that totaled $40,000.
Delta’s put M’Lady focus on community, scholarship, service Special to The New Tri-State Defender
Hundreds of well-dressed ladies and gents gathered recently at the Hilton Hotel for the 2012 version of Breakfast for M’Lady, an annual event sponsored for 60-plus years by the Memphis Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. The 2012 theme for the event – held the day before Mothers’ Day – was “Impacting the Community through Scholarship and Service.” For Geraldine Eskridge Stokes, the
breakfast gala brought her recognition as Mother of the Year. All eighteen of her children, including three sets of twins, are either successful in their chosen careers or in the family business. Many associate her with the Nutrition Department of Memphis City Schools, where her honors include employee of the month and note perfect attendance and punctuality. A shower of gifts – a dozen red roses, a flat screen television, an engraved silver tray, a Visa gift card and more – were presented to Stokes,
Staples was recently named the Common Core State Standards Math Coach for 6th grade teachers in the Memphis City Schools district. The role, which provides her additional compensation, will allow her to share with other math teachers novel teaching methods of which she’s taken advantage. “This has been a good year for learning new technology,” Staples said. “Along with Reflective Practice, I’ve started communicating with students at home using a site that’s similar to FaceBook called ‘EDMODO’ (a safe social networking site for schools). The students benefit from it and so do I. These are the types of experiences I’ll share with my peers.” Since the Teacher Effectiveness Measure (TEM) was implemented this year, scoring at a proficient level is more important than ever to school instructors. Staples selected her recent teaching strategies from Teacher Effectiveness Initiative resources. While this first year of TEM assessment was challenging for her, Staples said this has been her best year ever. “I feel more empowered as a teacher, she said. “I see how my students feel about me and I get to pick my principal’s brain on ways to improve. I see how much further I can go as a teacher and children don’t lie – seeing how they feel helps you rethink how to change for the next year.”
Roadside checkpoints targeting drunk drivers will greet area motorists at two locations on May 31. Memphis Police and Shelby County sheriff’s deputies will man the checkpoints. Federal law requires law enforcement officials to announce the checkpoints in advance. The Memphis-area checkpoints will be on Kirby-Whitten between Reese and Raleigh-LaGrange from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m., and at Hacks Cross and Winchester between 11 p.m. and 1 a.m. Meanwhile, Click it or Ticket, the national seat belt enforcement campaign, began May 21 and runs through June 3. The campaign involves state and local law enforcement agencies in efforts to enforce seat usage over the Memorial Day holiday weekend. The 2012 Memorial Day holiday period begins at midnight Friday (May 25) and will end at 11:59 p.m. Monday (May 28). Nineteen people were killed on Tennessee roadways during the 2011 Memorial Day holiday weekend. That’s up from 13 fatalities in 2010. Last year, alcohol was involved in six of the fatalities, and 50 percent of the vehicle occupants killed were not wearing seat belts. During the 78hour holiday time period, two pedestrians and seven motorcyclists were killed. “Memorial Day marks the beginning of the summer holiday travel season. It’s the perfect time to remind all motorists to buckle up. Tennessee state troopers will be working around the clock to enforce the seat belt law in an effort to ensure the safety of the motoring public,” Department of Safety and Homeland Security Commissioner Bill Gibbons said. As of May 22, 369 people have been killed on Tennessee roadways. That is 36 more vehicular fatalities than the 333 killed during the same time last year. Of the 290 vehicle occupant fatalities this year, more than 55 percent were not restrained. THP also reports that 947 people were killed on state roadways in 2011. Of the 729 vehicle occupants killed, 51.9 percent were not wearing seat belts. Of those unrestrained vehicle occupants, 190 were killed during nighttime hours versus 160 during the daytime hours (28 had unknown time). “More traffic-related fatalities can be prevented if motorists would simply wear their seat belt,” THP Colonel Tracy Trott said. “Wearing a seat belt will cost you nothing, but wearing one may just save your life.” When worn correctly, seat belts have been proven to reduce the risk of fatal injury to front-seat passenger car occupants by 45 percent, and by 60 percent in pickup trucks, SUVs and minivans. Colonel Trott also noted the number of alcohol-related fatalities from January 1 through May 22, 2012. In Tennessee, preliminary information indicates vehicular fatalities involving alcohol has increased 33 percent compared to this same time last year. Additionally, state troopers have made 1,941 DUI arrests through the first four months of the year. In 2011, the number of arrests made during that time was 1,359.
Mother of the Year, Geraldine Hurd Ekridge Stokes, and her family at the Breakfast for MʼLady event sponsored by the Memphis Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. (Photos by Tyrone P. Easley) who is active in several of the ministries at Greater Paradise Baptist Church, including evangelism Bible study, food pantry, and the mothers’ board. The event’s highlights also included presentations to the Maggie McDowell and Lois Jefferson Gilder Scholarship recipients. The combined recipients of the two scholarship funds were awarded a total of $40,000. Participants in the Miss Jabberwock contest and the Jewel Court, along with their parents and friends, Delta sponsors, and other
Deltas raised money to help subsidize the Maggie McDowell Scholarship Fund that provides awards to remarkable high school seniors in the Greater Memphis Area. In addition, a portion of Delta dues money underwrites special legacy scholarships. The chairperson for this year’s gala was Joan Harvey and the cochair was Margaret Wilburn. Deborah Harris served as mistress of ceremonies for Breakfast for M’Lady. Alleshia White is the president of the Memphis Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
RELIGION
Page 8
Tri-State Defender
May 24 - 30, 2012
President, peanut farmer and Sunday School teacher
President Jimmy Carter: The “NIV Lessons from Life Bible” interview Special to The New Tri-State Defender
with Kam Williams
James Earl Carter Jr., the 39th President of the United States, is the author of 25 books. Here, he talks about his latest, “NIV Lessons from Life Bible.”
Kam Williams: Hi President Carter, I’m really honored to have another opportunity to speak with you. President James Earl Carter Jr.: It’s a pleasure for me, too, Kam. Thank you!
KW: Editor/legist Patricia Turnier asks: “What message do you think people will take away from the Lessons from Life Bible?” President Carter: I think that what people will get out of these comments in the Bible, and also out of my previous book “Through the Year with Jimmy Carter: 366 Daily Meditations from the 39th President” is how pertinent, how important and how applicable the ancient texts are to our modern-day life. That’s what I try to emphasize in all my Sunday school lessons when I teach at Maranatha Baptist Church. So, I think the main message to remember is that we must accommodate changing times while clinging to unchanging moral values. That’s why I say the aim is to apply the text to mod-
President Carter: I think all of us could insist on preserving the truth and preserving the peace. We could insist that political candidates tell the truth about controversial issues. And secondly, we should be sure to encourage our political leaders, after they’re elected, to preserve the peace. My latest book, of course, is about the Bible. I worship as a Christian. I worship The Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ. He’s not The Prince of War. That’s why it really aggrieves me when I sometimes see fellow believers lobbying to start a war over something minimal when the peaceful approach might be the best….
ern-day life….
KW: Harriet Pakula Teweles asks: “Is there a personal moral tension between being a good Christian and being a good commander of a nuclear submarine? How can an officer – especially one of great faith – reconcile being asked to lead troops into battle with the Fifth Commandment: Thou Shalt Not Kill? President Carter: The most important Bible teaching that I remembered when I was in the Navy and when I was commander-in-chief, was that we worshipped “The Prince of Peace.” Jesus Christ is The Prince of Peace. So, I considered myself, as a submarine officer, as helping to preserve the peace. And I felt the same way when I was president. As a matter of fact, although we had some terrible challenges and temptations when I was in office, we never dropped a bomb…we never launched a missile…and we never fired a bullet. I think that one of the main requirements for a strong military, like a strong submarine force, is to prevent war, not to cause war. KW: Larry Greenberg says: It seems like we are at a point now where books are moving from bound paper to digital media. How will this impact the study and reverence for the Bible? President Carter: You can already download any of the religious texts onto electronic mechanisms like a Kindle. But I think many people prefer to hold a book in their hands. We recently gave my daughter, Amy, a new elec-
Former President James Earl Carter Jr. (Photo by Sara Saunders/The Carter Center)
tronic device, but since she used to work in a library, she still insists on reading exclusively from books. I take my Bible with me to church every Sunday to teach the Bible lesson. I do that whenever I’m in Plains, oh, about 35 to 40 times a year. So, I think that for many people, particularly when reading Holy Scriptures, a Bible you can hold in your hands is most appropriate….
KW: Tracy Ertl, Publisher of TitleTown Publishing, says: “…Mr. President, what is something that every God-believing American could do this year to bring more stability and safety to the youth of the country?”
KW: Rev. Florine Thompson asks: What is your favorite bible verse and why? President Carter: As a Christian, like a lot of other Christians, my favorite is John 3:16, where it explains in the Bible that God loves us all so much that He gave His only son to die and save us from our sins. Another favorite verse of mine is the one that says, “Be ye kind one to another.” As I’ve already mentioned, I also like the ones that refer to Jesus promoting peace. And I like the one that Paul described to the Galatians, which says that everybody is equal in the eyes of God: servants and masters… men and women… Jews and Gentiles…That every human being is equal to each other in the eyes of God….
KW: Thanks again for the time, President Carter. I really appreciate it. President Carter: Thank you, Kam, I really enjoyed talking to you again.
Radio power…
RELIGION BRIEFS
BRIEFLY: The Church Health Center’s next free Congregational Health Promoter class, which helps people start or strengthen a health ministry in their congregation, begins June 5 and meets for eight consecutive Tuesdays from 6 to 8 p.m. at Church Health Center Wellness, 1115 Union Ave. For information or to sign up, call 901-261-8833 or email fco@churchhealthcenter.org. BRIEFLY: The 5th Annual Men’s Health Summit will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on June 9 at THE UT Alumni Center, 800 Madison Ave. The event is for ages 12 and up, participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, call 901-261-8833. BRIEFLY: Rust College will host a luncheon during the Mississippi Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church on June 8 at 12:30 p.m. at the Jackson Convention Center. Tickets are $25. Tickets my be reserved by mailing a check to Rust College, c/o Emma Miller, 150 Rust Avenue, Holly Springs, MS 38635. For more information, email emiller@rustcollege.edu or call 662252-8000, ext. 4904.
Art Gilliam, president of Gilliam Communications, got well wishes from WDIA radio personality Bev Johnson during a celebration (May 18) at the Marriott East marking 35 years of African-American ownership of WLOK. (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)
PRAISE CONNECT -A WEEKLY DIRECTORY OF MINISTERS & CHURCHES-
A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. —John 13:34
METROPOLITAN BAPTIST CHURCH
767 Walker Avenue Memphis, TN 38126
ASSOCIATE MINISTERS
ST. ANDREW A.M.E. CHURCH 867 SOUTH PARKWAY EAST Memphis, TN 38106
Dr. Reginald L. Porter Sr., Pastor
901-946-4095 fax 948-8311
(901) 948-3441
Early Morning..........7:45 AM Church School..........9:45 AM Morning Worship......11:00 AM
Rev. Davena Young Porter Rev. Linda A Paige Rev. Luecretia Matthews
Bible Study For Youth and Adults Tuesday - 7:00 PM “Spirit, Soul, and Body!” AM 1070 WDIA Sundays, 10:00-10:30 AM
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
TV Cable Access Broadcast Tuesdays, 7:30 PM, Channel 17 Website:www.saintandrewamec.org
Dr. & Rev. Mrs. Reginald Porter
THE BLVD Ea s t 6745 Wol f Ri v e r B oule v a r d @ Ki r by Pa r k wa y ( i n t he Cl a rk Ope r a Me mphi s Ce nte r ) Me mp h i s T N 3 8 1 2 0
Dr. Frank A. Thomas Senior Servant
“Ministering to Memphis-Spirit, Soul and Body”
TEMPLE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST
672 So. Lauderdale 38126 P.O. Box 314 Memphis, Tn 38101 Phone (General) 774-1572 Pastor: 775-0740 Secretary: 775-1909
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
WEEKLY SERVICES
Sunday Sunday School 9:00 a.m. Morning Worship 10:30 a.m. Night YPWW 5:00 p.m. Night Service 6:00 p.m. Tuesday Night Prayer 6:00 p.m. Bible Study 7:15 p.m. Wednesday Choir Rehearsal 7:00 p.m. Friday Morning Prayer 9:00 a.m. Night Service 7:30 p.m. BROADCASTS 9:30 a.m. Sunday WDIA - 1070 AM
No Telecast Service
— Proverbs 1:7
Dr. David Allen Hall Pastor
“The Founder’s Church”
First Pastor: Senior Bishop C.H. Mason
To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven. —Ecclesiastes 3:1
Greenwood Christian Methodist Episcopal Church 3311 Kimball Ave. Memphis, TN 38111 (901) 744-7531 (901) 744-7664
Worship Services Sunday Sunday School Worship Service
Clarence Kelby Heath Wednesday Pastor
Noon - 1 p.m. 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Child Care Center (901) 948-6441 Monday-Friday 6 AM- 5:30 PM Emergency Food Pantry Rev. Kenneth S. Robinson, Pastor & Clothes Closet Rev. Marilynn S. Robinson, Co-Pastor Wednesday 6 PM-8 PM
9 a.m. 10:30 a.m.
I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty. —Revelation 1:8
RELIGION
Tri-State Defender
May 24 - 30, 2012
Page 9
LEGACY: Elmer Moore Jr.
ʻRemember my husband as a man who truly cared for othersʼ Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell
Hundreds gathered Wednesday morning at Norris Road Church of Christ to bid a final farewell to Elmer Moore Jr., A successful entrepreneur in real estate brokerage for more than 50 years drew hundreds to a final farewell on Wednesday at Norris Road Church of Christ. “My husband had a bad heart,” said Essie Moore. “I took care of him in our home when he returned from the hospital. Caregiving is a big job, but you don’t mind it when you really love someone. It was a joy to know that I was caring for my husband.” Mr. Moore was a 1951 graduate of Booker T. Washington High School. He earned a degree from LeMoyne College in 1961. Moore served in the U.S. Army before going to work for the U.S. Postal Service. His first venture as a real estate developer was Lakeview Gardens in the 1970s. “My husband was all about business, but he always demonstrated a genuine love for people,” said Moore. “He always felt an obligation to help his community – especially black men. Elmer was very sensitive to suffering because of his own childhood experiences in poverty. “When some product or service was needed, Elmer always called on a small, black businessman. ‘Everybody’s going to call the big guy,’ he would say. He patronized corner stores in our community. Elmer would always tell me. ‘We need to buy from our neighborhood stores. If there
is something they need to improve on, then let t h e m k n o w . Don’t just stop patronizing. How will they know Elmer if we don’t Moore Jr. tell them what’s wrong? We must help one another pull up by our bootstraps,’ he would always say.” Mr. Moore’s participation in the sit-in demonstrations and civil rights marches was always a great source of pride for him, said Mrs. Moore. One of Moore’s sons brought lighthearted moments in the program when he recounted that many times, people would be so far behind in rent but were allowed to stay anyway. “My husband helped to desegregate the public libraries, cultural centers such as the Memphis Botanic Gardens and Pink Palace Museum. He remembered those times back then fondly,” Mrs. Moore said. “There was a great sense of urgency that united the black community in one common goal: to see desegregation in every aspect of life in Memphis. They wanted to make a better life for their children and to make sure they were afforded the same rights and privileges as others did.” Mr. Moore Moore was born to the Rev. Elmer and Annie B. Moore. He was preceded in death by his parents and four siblings: Johnetta Brown, Hubert Moore, Luke C. Moore,
TIME OUT
Mr. Elmer Moore Jr.ʼs support system included his daughter, former City Attorney Monice Moore Hagler (l), and his widow, Essie B. Moore. (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley) and Fannie Green. In addition to his widow, Mr. Moore leaves six children, Monice Moore Hagler, Jeffrey Moore(Juliette), Terrena Moore, Vincent Moore, Arafa Payne, Elmer Moore III (Ililian), Elliott Moore, 15 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and a numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. “Elmer’s first love was God, of course. These 30 years of being married to him were wonderful years,” said Mrs. Moore. “He should be remembered as a man who truly cared for others. That is what he lived for. That is his legacy.”
TSD columnist Lucy Shaw is taking a break this week. Her column – “Living the Life I Love” – will return in the next edition.
ENTERTAINMENT Tri-State Defender, Thursday, May 24 - 30, 2012, Page 10
WHAT’S HAPPENING MYRON?
FILM REVIEW
Arsenio Hall back on track for his own TV show
Have you been watching Donald T r u m p ’ s “Celebrity Apprentice?” If so, you’ve noticed that Arsenio Hall has been making some major noise. Well, as a result, three major networks have Myron expressed interest Mays in bringing Arsenio back to TV. No word on whether it would be a daytime or nighttime show. However, wouldn’t it be great to have Arsenio back on TV? I remember being a teenager and doing nothing at 10 every night but waiting for Arsenio to come on. Every celebrity who had ever been hot in the ’90s made a stop by the show. Arsenio had a way of creating as much excitement around the B and C list celebrity as he would the A list celebrity. Speaking of the B & C list celebrity, “The Arsenio Hall Show” provided a vehicle for even those people to get exposure. Johnny Carson had his guest and so did David Letterman. But Arsenio had guests on that we never got a chance to see on Carson and Letterman. Could you imagine seeing Tupac Shakur on the couch with Johnny Carson? However, he was a guest on Arsenio. Arsenio gave the “urban” superstars a place to go to be seen by their audience. Some of my favorite TV moments were from “The Arsenio Hall Show.” Remember the episode where Eddie Murphy was a guest and Michael Jackson made a surprise appearance? Or the episode where MC Hammer came on and introduced the world to the new gangster version of himself” Unforgettable Moments such as those made for good late night television for the urban audience. Regardless of whether Arsenio’s new show airs in the daytime or at night, I’m sure it will be hip and exciting and I will be tuning in for sure.
Tyler Craig and Big Sean
You don’t have to go to work on Memorial Day Weekend…at least most of us anyway. Why not check out a great comedy show on this Friday and Saturday (May 26-27)? Tyler Craig returns to the Bartlett Comedy Spot this weekend, and also on the show is comedian Big Sean. Admission is $15. Show times are at 7:30 and 10 p.m. each night. The Bartlett Comedy Spot is located at 5709 Raleigh-Lagrange. For more information call 901590-3620.
The Loretta McNary Show
Wanna be a part of a live studio audience? Then join my friend Loretta McNary for three amazing shows, with live musical performances, awesome guests and tons of fun on (June 1). The tapings of The Loretta McNary Show are always free and open to the public. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. The show is taped at the McNary TV Studio located at the Hickory Ridge Mall 6075 Winchester Road, next to Sears. For more information, visit http://www.lorettamcnary.com.
Ledisi coming back to Memphis
Songstress Ledisi returns to Memphis as she brings the “Be Good To Yourself Tour” to the Orpheum on July 14th. I am planning to see her for the fourth time. I can’t get enough of this girl at all, lol. Oh yeah, also on the show is Eric Benet. I’m really digging his latest song “Real Love.” Tickets are available at the Orpheum Theatre Box Office or at all Ticketmaster outlets, ticketmaster.com or charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000. (Got an event you’d like for me to cover or attend? Email me at Myron@whatshappeningmyron.com)
Will Smith tries to squeeze another hit performance out of Agent J in ʻMen In Black 3.ʼ (Photos courtesy Columbia Pictures)
‘MIB 3’ is one too many NNPA Film Critic
by Dwight Brown
that shouldn’t broach the subject. It’s a shallow sci-fi comedy, why bother? Director Barry Sonnefeld, the captain for
‘Men In Black 3’ ** (Two of four stars)
It’s been ten years since Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones donned their black suits, cool sunglasses and glib hipness to play Agent J and Agent K – the good guys who try to save the world from weird looking aliens. Should they have left well enough alone? Have they harmed their legacy? Yes and maybe. Boris the Animal (Jemaine Clement) is marooned on a penal colony on the moon. He escapes, comes back to earth and tries to undo the day K shot off his arm. To do that he goes back in time with plans to kill off K. One day J realizes that K is missing and none of his fellow agents believe that K was ever his partner as the older gent died 40 years ago. Only Agent O (Emma Thompson) has a clue. So it is up to J to go back to 1969 and thwart Boris’ hit on K, who in his younger form (Josh Brolin), can’t figure out who the hell J is. The script, as written by Etan Cohen, gives a back-story to J and K’s relationship, endowing the characters with depth. You learn why K is so sullen and J so attached to him. That’s cool, but it hardly provides enough fodder for an engaging, one-hour-45minute script. The one-liners fly like rain from the clouds, but few are truly funny. Smith’s shtick about a black man and a stolen car makes race an issue in a movie
all three of the episodes, has hit the creative bottom of his bag of tricks. Not one gim-
mick, not one action scene, not one special effect screams “Wow!” In fact the visuals are so lame and dated they look like oh-soyesterday “Back to The Future” rejects. The grotesque fish, the weird headed people, a do-or-die fight at a space ship launching in 1969 – none of it seems original, daring, new or exciting. The footage is in #D, but nothing pops out at you. Lacking the focus of an inventive plotline, compelling direction or special effects, attention turns to Smith, Jones and Brolin. Brolin’s wicked imitation of a young agent K is spot on. Jones, meanwhile, seems on automatic control. And Smith, who is starting to look like a middle-aged man, comes off subservient as the “boyish sidekick” with a father complex. He doesn’t feel like a leading man, more like Robin to Batman or Little John to Robin Hood. This is the guy who carried the film “I Am Legend” with one hand tied behind his back. “MIB3” takes his career backwards. It’s not as hideous of a choice as “The Legend of Bagger Vance,” but this reincarnated role seems beneath him. By the film’s end, the plotting draws to a close, with several “AAh” moments. Treasure the memory of the first “MIB,” be patient with this one. Let’s give Smith, Jones and Sonnefeld a pass for going back to the well one too many times. But if they go for a “MIB4,” the pity party is over. (Visit NNPA Film Critic Dwight Brown at www.DwighBrownInk.com.) Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones in ʻMen In Black 3.ʼ
ENTERTAINMENT
Tri-State Defender
Page 11
May 24 - 30, 2012
HOROSCOPES
Disco-legend Donna Summer dead at 63 NNPA News Service
Disco-era R&B singer Donna Summer succumbed to her battle with cancer on May 17. “Early this morning, we lost Donna Summer Sudano, a woman of many gifts, the greatest being her faith,” said a statement from Universal Music, Summer’s record label. “While we grieve her passing, we are at peace celebrating her extraordinary life and her continued legacy. Words truly can’t express how much we appreciate your prayers and love for our family at this sensitive time.” Summer, 63, was born on Dec. 31, 1948 in Boston. She achieved her first bit of entertainment success when she starred in the musical, “Hair,” in Germany. From there, she began singing in other musicals and performed in different groups. However it wasn’t until 1975 that Summer would find success on the charts as the suggestive “Love to Love You” reached Top Five on the charts
Donna Summer – the Disco Queen – sings “Whatʼs She Called” during her crowdpleasing concert at the Memphis Botanic Garden in August, 2010. (Photo by Warren Roseborough)
in the United Kingdom. By 1976, the song reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. In 1978, Summer released her first critically acclaimed single as “Last Dance,” a song on the soundtrack of “Thank God It’s Friday,” won a Grammy and its writer, Paul Jabara won an Academy Award for composition. Summer’s next album, “Bad Girls” would spawn two No. 1 hits in “Hot Stuff” and “Bad Girls” – winning her another Grammy. The 1980’s were less kind to Summer’s career as her 1983 album, “She Works Hard for the Money,” was the only album that achieved commercial success. Overall, Summer won five Grammy’s in her career. She is survived by her husband, Bruce Sudano, their daughters, Brooklyn and Amanda, and Summer’s daughter from a previous marriage, Mimi. (Special to the NNPA from the Afro-American Newspaper)
OPENING THIS WEEK
Kam’s Kapsules:
Weekly Previews That Make Choosing a Film Fun
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Kam Williams
For movies opening May 25, 2012
BIG BUDGET FILMS
“Chernobyl Diaries” (R for violence, bloody images and pervasive profanity) Grisly horror flick about a half-dozen tourists who venture to the ghost town created by the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant meltdown where they end-up on the run from a race of radioactive mutants. Starring Ingrid Bolso Berdal, Dimitri Diatchenko, Olivia Dudley and Jesse McCarthy. “Men in Black III” (PG-13 for violence and suggestive content) Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones reprise their roles as Agents J and K in a sci-fi sequel which finds the for-
mer traveling through a time portal back to 1969 where he has just 24 hours to save both his partner and the planet from an alien assassin (Jemaine Clement) bent on world domination. Support cast includes Josh Brolin, Tim Burton, and Alice Eve, Emma Thompson and Bill Hader, with cameos by Lady Gaga and Justin Bieber.
INDEPENDENT & FOREIGN FILMS
“Cowgirls N’ Angles” (PG for mature themes and mild epithets) Uplifting road flick about a rebellious tomboy (Bailee Madison) looking for her long-lost father who finds herself instead adopted by a team of female rodeo trick riders. Cast includes James Cromwell, Alicia Witt and Frankie Faison. “The Intouchables” (Unrated)
Inspirational buddy dramedy about the improbable bond which blossoms between a wealthy quadriplegic (Francois Cluzet) and the Senegalese street criminal (Omar Sy) he hires as his live-in caretaker. With Anne Le Ny, Audrey Fleurot and Clotilde Mollet. (In French with subtitles) “Mighty Fine” (R for profanity and brief nudity) Diminished dreams dramedy, set in the Seventies, about a Brooklyn businessman’s (Chazz Palminteri) bitter disappointment after moving his family (Andie MacDowell, Jodelle Ferland and Rainey Qualley) and factory to New Orleans. With Paul Ben-Victor, Richard Kohnke, Arthur J. Nascarella and Kent Jude Bernard. “Moonrise Kingdom” (PG-13 for smoking and sexuality) Wes Anderson directed this romance drama, set in the Sixties on an island off the
coast of New England, revolving around a sheriff’s (Bruce Willis) search party for a pair of runaway young lovers (Kara Hayward and Jared Gilman). A-list ensemble cast includes Bill Murray, Frances McDormand, Edward Norton, Tilda Swinton and Harvey Keitel.
“OC87” (Unrated) Autobiographical documentary, written by, directed by and starring Bud Clayman, chronicling his lifelong battle with depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Asperger’s Syndrome. “Oslo, August 31st” (Unrated) Day-in-the-life drama about a recovering drug addict (Anders Danielsen Lie) who checks out of residential rehab only to roam the rough streets of the city again after being discouraged by a disastrous job interview. With Hans Olav Brenner and Ingrid Olava. (In Norwegian with subtitles)
May 24-30, 2012
ARIES Rev up your engines. This is a fine week for making progress with projects that you’ve got in the works. Your energy is high and your mind is clear. Use every advantage to finish up your works. Look for love in the right places. Know the difference between love and lust. TAURUS Educate those around you in the area of personal growth. Their improvement will bring benefits to you. Humor in communication is the key. Humor in introspection is a must. GEMINI This week romance is begins to percolate. Enjoy your feelings and let your brain relax. Suspend all judgments of others. Being stern won’t work for you this week. CANCER Romance will find you this week. Don’t be looking the other way. Your “rap” is especially strong. Make as many of those important phone calls as possible. People will respond. They are waiting to be receptive, LEO This week should bring an opportunity to further your education, don’t pass it up. Pay special attention to details at work. A friend needs your support. Find joy in giving it. VIRGO You and your mate should increase your saving for the future this week. Future plans should be spotlighted. A relationship is likely to take a serious turn. Be open to making an unusual purchase. LIBRA Don’t take any big gambles this week, the time is not right for a flight into the unknown. A newfound harmony is in store for you and your mate. Your mate will understand your fears. SCORPIO The air can be cleared easily. Admit your need for help. Seek understanding. You’ll help another by seeking help from them. Communication problems will smooth themselves out. SAGITTARIUS You and your partner are on the same wavelength. If you are presented with a contract this week, it’s an ideal week to reach an agreement. Make the important phone call to set things up. CAPRICORN Beware of financial pitfalls that you’ve set for yourself. Strengthen all your relationships by understanding motivations of others. Spend time at home. Enjoy what you already have. AQUARIUS Don’t expect to win every battle, especially with your lover. This week winning is losing. Backing down is winning. Shyness produces a bold result. It’s easy to collect that longstanding debt. PISCES Possibilities of hearing good news about home are greatly expanded. Savor the news rather than thinking about other annoyances. Travel is on the horizon. Plan the trip this week. Source: NNPA News Service
HEALTH
Page 12
Seven points to keep you from eating yourself into oblivion ance diet may not be commensurate with your meager income. If this is what you’re thinking, you have a valid point. I want to make seven points about obesity and what you’d need to do to keep the weight off. First. If you’re Dr. Timothy unable to afford Moore fine cuisine, don’t worry. Most of it might be unhealthy anyway. So if you have the wherewithal, buy fruits and vegetables. Besides, if you’re eating foods that are loaded with sugar, fats and calories, you’re on your way to fatsville. Second. Make obtainable goals that you are able to live by and keep when it comes to losing the weight. Preparing and eating a healthy diet and then exercising may not be feasible if you’re a glutton and unable to turn away from the table. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables will help keep your weight down. Third. Learning how to read and understand food labels is a must. You wouldn’t want to purchase foods that are harmful to the body or foods that would cause weight increase and the possibility of ill health. So read food labels to avoid sickness and diseases. Fourth. If you’re going to the grocery store, never go hungry. Always have a prepared list of foods you are going to purchase. You wouldn’t want to purchase foods on the spurof-the-moment. Plan your diet. Fifth. If you should talk to some-
by Chef Timothy Moore Ph.D, N.M.D, C.N. Special to The New Tri-State Defender
Nearly one-third of Memphis’s population is obese, which earned the city the unflattering rank as the fattest city in the nation, according to a recent report in Newsweek magazine. I’m not surprised by the expanding girth of Memphians considering that “The Bluff City” is deemed the “barbeque capital of the world.” I’m not blind to this fact – and you shouldn’t be either. Memphis is tops in a lot of things, but obesity is not one that we should brag about. It leads to catastrophic diseases, such as high blood pressure, diabetes and cancer, and will eventually lead to death. So in no uncertain terms we have to turn the fat back to keep death at bay. I’m sure we all want to live to reach old age. If you do, like I do, then you ought to make some necessary changes to make quality living a life-long quest. Dying is too easy. We all have to come to this crossroad at the end of life, but it doesn’t have to be soon. So what do you know about obesity? I’m almost certain that not many people have an inkling of what it is or how to keep the weight off. I’ve sounded the clarion in this newspaper week after week – that eating fruits and vegetables is the key to good health. An obese city, state and nation affect everybody directly and indirectly. It’s your concern, and mine, too. Why is it so hard to eat healthy on a budget or limited income? Believe me, I understand your concerns about eating healthy when a well bal-
NEWS
one about your food choice, or theirs, slip in a conversation about the added benefits of exercising and changing one’s lifestyle to ensure longevity. Sixth. Begin with some form of exercise that you’d enjoy. It should be fun and enjoyable if you want to sustain your level of commitment. Seven. Learn how to remove stress from your life. Try not worry about the things you don’t have control over. Stress too often leads to overweight bodies and, if left unchecked, obesity. So don’t worry. Be happy! If you’re happy, you won’t overeat. Weight gain is not that uncommon in people who eat the wrong foods. People who become seriously obese tend to eat uncontrollably anyway and can’t seem to lift themselves up from the kitchen table. Eating a healthy diet is a pre-requisite for those trying to live life more abundantly. Life is precious. You don’t have to eat yourself into oblivion. Obesity leads to health problems that can be prevented if you’re taught how to eat a well-balanced diet. You must decide what is more important to you: eating foods that expand your girth or eating foods that will expand your mind. If you are borderline overweight, or obese, make the necessary adjustments to prevent life-long illnesses. (Dr. Timothy Moore teaches nutrition, heart disease and diabetes reversal through a plant-based lifestyle. He is a professional speaker, wellness coach and personal plant-based chef. He can be reached by email at cheftimothy@cheftimothymoore.com or visit him on the Web sites at www.cheftimothymoore.com or www.twitter.com/cheftimmoore.)
Congratulations
The Memphis Business Academy (MBA) High School Executive Menʼs Chorus sang “Itʼs So Hard to Say Goodbye” at the schoolʼs “Premier Executive Graduation Ceremony” at The Michael D. Rose Theatre at the University of Memphis last Sunday (May 20). (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)
Never to early…
Mount Vernon Christian Academy honored its 2012 graduates last Friday (May 18). The program theme was “Itʼs Not Too Early To Dream.” (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)
Keila Foster was a proud teacher as she gave Talented Tenth Awards to select AfricanAmerican males in the 2012 graduating class of Raleigh Egypt High School. Each student has been accepted into college and showed exceptional growth in academics and leadership. (Courtesy photo)
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NOTICE TO BIDDERS Bids are to be received no later than 2:00 P.M. on Tuesday, June 19, 2012. Sealed bids are to be marked “STP Funded Project – Elmore Park Road — City of Bartlett”. Bids are to be addressed to the attention of Mayor A. Keith McDonald and delivered to the following, The reading of the bids will begin at 2:00 PM. CITY OF BARTLETT 6400 STAGE ROAD P.O. BOX 341148 BARTLETT, TENNESSEE 38184-1148 The City of Bartlett reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to waive any informality in the bidding process. The City of Bartlett is an equal opportunity employer, drug-free with policies of non-discrimination on the basis of race, sex, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or military service. Plans and specifications can be picked up at the City of Bartlett Engineering Department, 6382 Stage Road, Bartlett, TN 38134. A $100.00 non refundable deposit is required. Make checks payable to City of Bartlett. If further information is desired, please contact Ms. Becky Bailey with City of Bartlett Engineering Department at 901385-6499. PROPOSAL CONTRACTS WILL BE ISSUED UNTIL THE TIME SET FOR OPENING BIDS A Prime Contractor 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 16805-3 prequalification of contractors before biddable proposals will be furnished. The City of Bartlett hereby notifies all bidders that a 8.0% Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) goal has been set for this project and must be met or exceeded. The City of Bartlett 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. The bid will be accepted and reviewed by the City of Bartlett and then submitted to TDOT for review and approval prior to the final selection of the successful bidder. PUBLIC NOTICE THE I-269 TENNESSEE REGIONAL VISION STUDY PUBLIC MEETINGS THE MEMPHIS URBAN AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION In compliance with federal regulations (23 CFR 450), the Memphis Urban Area
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Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) will hold public meetings to discuss and receive public comments on the I-269 TN Regional Vision study for the Memphis MPO Region. This study will be a Regional Vision illustrating how the communities and citizens would like to see development occurring adjacent to the I-269 corridor. The study will assess the immediate impacts within a one-mile offset of the I-269 Corridor in Shelby and Fayette Counties in Tennessee as well as a regional impact on the entire MPO study area consisting of all of Shelby County, Tennessee, the northern ten miles of DeSoto County, Mississippi and the western four miles of Fayette County, Tennessee. Specifically, the I-269 TN Regional Vision study will contain an analysis of existing and proposed land uses along the study corridor and will be used to illustrate potential land use and transportation scenarios for the corridor based upon community and stakeholder input. Public input on the I-269 TN Regional Vision Study will be accepted at the following locations as indicated: June 5 – 5:00-7:00 pm Collierville – Collierville Town Hall 500 Poplar View Parkway, Collierville, TN 38017 June 6 – 5:00-7:00 pm Millington – Baker Community Center 7942 Church Street, Millington, TN 38053
June 7 – 5:00-7:00 pm Lakeland - International Harvesters Clubhouse 4523 Canada Road, Lakeland, TN 38002 June 14 – 5:00-7:00 pm Memphis Benjamin Hooks Central Library 3030 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38111
It is the policy of the Memphis Urban Area MPO not to discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, national origin or disability in its hiring or employment practices, or in its admissions to or operations of its program, services, or activities. All inquiries for Title VI and/or the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), or for persons with disabilities that require aids or services to participate either in the review of these documents or at the meeting may contact Carlos McCloud at 901-576-7156, fax (901) 576-7272; or email Carlos. McCloud@memphistn.gov to make accessibility arrangements no less than five days prior to any meeting.
ALL INTERESTED BIDDERS The Board of Education of the Memphis City Schools will accept written bids for HVAC Roof Top Units Replacement at Kirby Middle and Kirby High Schools. Visitour website for additional information: www.mcsk12.net/departments.asp, Procurement Services link, click on Bids & RFPs. Questions concerning bids/RFP should be addressed to Procurement Services at (901) 416-5376. Thank you for supporting Memphis City Schools. Jacqueline Saunders, Director Memphis City Schools – Procurement Services
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SPORTS Tri-State Defender, Thursday, May 24 - 30, 2012, Page 13
A field of dreams back in play at Jesse Turner Park
There were prizes galore during last weekʼs preview of baseball action to come at Jesse Turner Park. (Photos by Tyrone P. Easley)
The New Tri-State Defender Staff
The baseball park at Bellevue and South Parkway now is operating under the auspices of the Tri-State Youth Baseball Academy, which is off and running with a 20year, cost-free lease approved by the Memphis City Council in February. Opening day was last Saturday (May 19), with about 600 people making their way to Jesse Turner Park. Each of the about 30 league teams got a chance to play at least 45 minutes, whetting appetites for the seasons ahead. Tri-State Youth Baseball Academy Chairman Tony James said about 35 teams will be in the league when it is in full force. Doing the math in his head, James said 35 teams with 15 children per team adds up to 525 people that the academy is trying to help steer clear of the criminal justice system. “The community needs an uplift in terms of family-oriented activity,” said James, who has professional baseball playing experience. “This certainly is a family-oriented activity for people to bring their children out and reinvigorate baseball in the community. “This location was a major baseball Mecca in years past,” James said. “So we have brought it back and will continue our efforts to make sure it never leaves again.” Much work has been done on the park, said James, including putting in a new field for smaller children behind the big field. Youth will compete in T-ball, coach pitch, midgets, junior and senior divisions. After the City Council approved the lease (with 5-year increments) in February, there was a hiccup that delayed the transition when Council member Wanda Halbert later expressed concern about fees that would be charged to teams. “When you put the kind of money we have put into this place, that we have raised money to do, we have to charge somebody, somewhere that wants to use the field,” said James. “We don’t want the field torn up. We want the grounds to look presentable for anyone to come out and be able to have a fun time.’’ As it stands, different groups can for a “small minimal fee” arrange to make use of the park, if existing event schedules allow. The baseball team of The LeMoyneOwen College makes use of the field for its fall and spring seasons. The college is responsible for field maintenance and clean up after each of its games. “We made a commitment to LeMoyne because we certainly want to see the college grow and bring in activities that students will be encouraged and participating in. We don’t charge LeMoyne anything,” said James. The park, once known as Bellevue Park, was renamed for local civil rights activist Jesse Turner, president of Tri-State Bank for decades
The Tri-State Youth Baseball Academy is determined to “reinvigorate” the game in the community surrounding what once was Bellevue Park.
Sportsmanship is part of the lesson plan.
Proof that baseball is a family-oriented activity.
Run-it-out action is underway.
Golfer Zakiya Randall is not up to par NNPA News Service
by Raynard Jackson Former British Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, once said, “To every man there comes a time when he is figuratively tapped on the shoulder and offered the chance to do a great and mighty work; unique to him and fitted to his talents; what a tragedy if that moment finds him unprepared or unqualified for the moment that could be his finest hour.” Zakiya Randall has been tapped on the shoulder and has proven that she is woefully unprepared and unqualified for the moment that could be her finest hour. Randall is a 20-year-old, Arlington, Va. native, now residing in Atlanta. She is supposed to be an up and coming golf prodigy. But this column is less about her golf and more about her person. Randall is a very attractive girl, who definitely has great potential. Unfortunately, I would be very surprised if this potential is ever realized because she seems to want to be a sex object more than a
golfer. Her arrogance is astonishing and very repulsive. She is young and brash, with none of the hardware (winning titles) to back up her bravado. In some ways, she reminds me of Michelle Wie, the former teenage golfer, who was pushed too hard and too fast by parents who wanted to live vicariously through her. But, at least Wie’s parents refused to let their daughter be used as a sex object. Wie has a very well done Web site filled with Fortune 500 companies as sponsors. Her photo pages feature very tasteful, beautiful pictures of her, both on and off the golf course. Wie went from a highly exposed teenager with lots of money and fame, to a seemingly classy adult who will receive her degree from Stanford University this month with a degree in communications. Wie has accomplished all this without being sexually objectified. You may now be asking, what I am talking about? Visit http://bit.ly/HLflMD and you will understand my rant very clearly.
When I saw this video, I was totally disgusted with Randall, and even more so with her parents. Why would parents allow their daughter to be so sexually objectified (I am assuming the parents knew this was going on. If they didn’t, why did they not demand that the video be taken down)? But more importantly, what was it about Randall and her parents that made the Golf Channel comfortable shooting a video showing various close-up shots, in slow motion, of Randall’s private parts? Her being fully clothed does not diminish the hypersexuality of the video; the Golf Channel clearly was sexualizing this 20-year-old for ratings. None of the other girls in this video were shot in this manner. Randall is the only black girl in this video and on this particular Golf Channel TV show. Why are black women content to allow themselves to constantly be debased in the most public of manner? Why am I seemingly more upset at this constant sexual objectification of black women than some black
women? Randall is managed by her mother, so ultimately they both agreed to let this be done. Randall thinks she can make money by being sexually exploited. Correction, sexually used. Exploitation indicates coercion. Well, obviously, it’s not working. When you go to her web site, it is clumsily put together and cluttered with the most egotistical verbiage I have ever seen. There are no major corporate sponsors. I wonder why? Randall is just another in a recent string of black women who bring shame on themselves and women in general. Last year, I wrote a piece titled “Black Women No Longer Have Their Essence.” This piece was about the “Basketball Wives” craze and the “Housewives of Atlanta” craze. As if the shows weren’t bad enough, Essence magazine honored some of the women involved in both shows. Please, I don’t want to hear anything about Randall being young (20). Wie was young also, but no network ever showed close-ups of her pri-
There is no missing Zakiya Randall on a golf course. (Photo via www.golfchannel.com) vate parts. The only difference being that of parenting. Wei’s parents emigrated from South Korea to Hawaii, where Wei was born. Asians typically raise their children in a very conservative manner, with a clear delineation of authority within the home. They are taught that education is the key to their future. Thus, Wei will be receiving her college degree from Stanford University this month and Randall is not even in school. Randall and her parents need help. Beautiful, she is. Talented, she is. Smart, she is
not. She is old enough to know better, but if she was reared in an environment to believe that being sexually objectified is OK, then, I blame her parents. Randall either has no professional PR people around her or she simply is not listening to their advice. In either case, she is embarrassing herself and black women. (Raynard Jackson is president & CEO of Raynard Jackson & Associates, LLC., a D.C.-public relations/government affairs firm.)
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May 24 - 30, 2012
Tri-State Defender