6 19 2013

VOL. 62, No. 24

www.tsdmemphis.com

June 13 - 19, 2013

75 Cents

Malone says she’s in and that Luttrell should be out Challenge issued at Commissioner Chismʼs bash IN POLITICS Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Tony Jones

Lionel Hollins lets the ref know just what he is thinking. (Photos: Warren Roseborough)

Parting (with OUR Coach) is such sweet sorrow ‘It’s So Hard To Say Goodbye To Yesterday’

How do I say goodbye … to what we had?

The good times … that made us laugh Outweigh the bad.

I thought weʼd get … to see forever But foreverʼs gone away Itʼs so hard … to say goodbye … to yesterday.

Boyz II Men Songwriters: Freddie Perren and Christine Yarian

Commentary Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Kenny B. Johnson

How do you really say goodbye to someone who has meant so much to so many?

What words could really comfort the man who endured the losing seasons of the then-Vancouver Grizzlies, but yet came back to coach the Memphis Grizzlies to the Western Conference Championship?

How does new ownership really explain to the loyal legion of Grizz Nation how “differing views” turned into the non-renewal of a contract and the firing of a coach?

Yeah, it really is hard to say goodbye, especially when it seems like just “yesterday” that the city of Memphis was united in support of the impressive playoff run that April’s Coach of the Month helped spearhead.

Jason Levien, chief executive officer and managing partner of the Grizzlies, said they decided after talks with now ex-head coach Lionel Hollins and his agent to go in a different direction. He thanked the veteran coach for his work with the franchise since its start in Vancouver.

“After a thorough internal process, which included conversations with Lionel and his representatives, we decided as an organization to move in a different direction,” Levien said in his statement. “‘The entire Grizzlies’ family wishes Lionel all SEE COACH ON PAGE 2

Lionel Hollins attends the Executive Breakfast in the Lexus Lounge of the FedExForum prior to a program held in honor of the late Dana Davis, who had served as the Grizzlies vice president of basketball operations.

Hollins’ departure ripples the social media universe Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Ashley Forest

The Greater Memphis social media universe pulsed as if on red alert on Monday as word spread that the Memphis Grizzlies were not offering Lionel Hollins a new contract to continue on as coach.

“OK Memphis... What do you think about the Memphis Grizzlies not offering Lionel Hollins a new contract?”

That’s the question The New Tri-State Defender posted on its TSDMemphis Facebook page. Fans jumped heavy into the conversation, with some heartfelt comments – “not buying season tickets and burning the ‘Growl’ towel” – that reflected how they felt about Hollins being let go.

Some said the move by the Grizz smacked of

- INSIDE -

MEMPHIS WEEKEND

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

H- 8 7o - L - 6 6o P a r tl y C l oud y

H- 9 1o - L - 7 1o P a r tl y C l ou dy

H- 9 0o - L - 7 4o Partl y Cl o udy

REGIONAL TEMPS LITTLE ROCK NASHVILLE JACKSON, MS

Friday H-89 L-69 H-82 L-62 H-93 L-69

Saturday H-93 L-74 H-89 L-67 H-95 L-72

SEE HOLLINS ON PAGE 2

• The legacy of TV dads. See Opinion, page 4.

• Healthy Church Challenge winners reach the ‘Summit.’

See Religion, page 6.

Sunday H-92 L-74 H-90 L-70 H-93 L-72

• Young entrepreneurs keep up the good work. See Community, page 8.

• Guess who sang it? See Entertainment, page 10.

John Amos

Going on now for more than a decade, County Commissioner Sidney Chism’s annual political picnic is where the local Democratic Party’s big players announce their big news, try to solidify connections and do the sideline pushing to forward agendas.

This year’s event was held this past Sunday (June 9) at his urban mini ranch in Whitehaven and it did not disappoint.

At the top of the list was the announcement by former county commissioner Deidre Malone that she will be filing to run for Shelby County Mayor in the Democratic Party primary scheduled for May 6th, 2014.

“Yes, absolutely, I’m running,” Malone said. “As I look at the leadership of this community I don’t think the current leadership cares about the inner city. He (Shelby County Mayor Mark H. Luttrell Jr.) is prone to doing what he thinks is best for the suburbs, but as (county) mayor you have to represent seven municipalities.

“Memphis is one of them and I don’t see what he’s done for Memphis. He paints himself as an independent but I don’t see where his work reflects that,” said Malone.

“He’s not a liberal, he’s a Republican. I was a progressive legislator when I was in office and I will continue to be if I am able to win.”

Mark H. Luttrell Jr.

Deidre Malone

Luttrell, who attended the picnic, said he wasn’t totally surprised by Malone’s announcement.

“It had been rumored for several months. There’s always competition in politics at this level and I look forward to a vibrant race that focuses on the issues,” said Luttrell.

“It gives me a chance to defend my record and I look forward to answering any question the public might have. I’m ready to stand and be held accountable.”

Malone is the co-owner of the Carter-Malone Group, a full-service marketing firm. According to its website, the firm is the largest, woman-owned PR agency in the Mid-South, as well as the third largest.

Malone served the maximum two terms on the County Commission.

She ran for Shelby County Mayor in 2010, losing in the Democratic Primary to then-Interim Shelby County mayor Joe Ford.

“People keep asking me about my fundraising strength, but you have to remember what happened when I ran in 2010, Malone said. “I was out there running and then the interim mayor, Ford, jumped in the race. Being the incumbent and a SEE MALONE ON PAGE 2

Can the Shelby County Democratic Party come off the ropes?

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Tony Jones

Longtime Democratic Party power Sidney Chism says he will be leaving public office and front line politics when his term as a county commissioner is completed in 2014.

Now 73 and looking forward to enjoying time at home with his wife and grandchildren, Chism laments that, “Our younger people have lost interest in politics. The fight is not there as it should be because us older guys did not provide an avenue for them to become involved.”

In short, Chism said he and his generational peers dropped the ball by not making sure that every segment of the community was fairly included to advance its needs and dreams.

“But I don’t think it’s permanent,” said Chism. “We have to find the right candidates. Not candidates that’s running just to make a payday, but that really want to make a difference.”

As Chism looks to take his leave, Shelby County Democratic Party president Bryan Carson is positioned to forge ahead. Selected by the party in April, he is the son of respected party activist Gale Jones Carson, a member of the Democratic National Committee.

“I ran on unity and believe that we will be a strong cohesive group that can get people out to the polls,” said Carson. “We had a huge presidential election, resulting in the fact that nearly everyone over 18 at the time is registered to vote. The challenge is to get them engaged. Fully 33 percent of the Democratic vote in Ten-

nessee resides in Shelby County.”

Noting 76 members on the Executive Committee, Carson said he was surprised that so many are in their twenties and thirties.

Sidney “We are going Chism to form a think tank to come up with ideas to reach out to the younger generation and get them out to vote,” he said. “We have to get them engaged and educate them on how their vote counts and how these people sitBrad ting here doing Carson their jobs on a day to day basis affects them in their lives.”

Still, Carson and the local Democrats have a formidable challenge ahead as the party prepares for a wide slate of elections in 2014.

In Chism’s view, the right wing of the Republican Party is dead set on turning back the hands of time.

“They know there is no election that African Americans in this county is not capable of winning if we have the right candidates,” he said. “But the truth of the matter is, and your paper has to own a part of this, is the election of Steve Cohen.

SEE DEMS ON PAGE 2

NEWS

Page 2

June 13 - 19, 2013

Tri-State Defender

Coach Lionel Hollins calls out a winning number in a drawing during his annual Bowling for Backpacks event. Hollins started the program in 2003 when he was the Grizzlies assistant coach. It is crafted to supply underserved youth with school supplies. (Photo: Warren Roseborough)

HOLLINS

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

politics.

Others smelled racism. Still others said the owners were well within their rights.

Here is a sampling:

Betty Tyler: This form of public racism must stop. Just when we are showing “unity” and that our city really gets it so global business can come here. Here we go again. I need everyone to go get healed, delivered and set free at the new Social Wellness Tour which will begin in July, 2013. Go learn to eradicate racism so our city can “love our people”. This coach led the team, our family are TIGERS and GRIZZ so let’s get this right. Peace

Barbara House Williams I’m thru with the grizzles!

Burning my growl towel.

Robert Roberson The owners have the right to select whom they want to lead the team. Just hope they pick a good one. GO GRIZZ!!!!!

Irene W. Booker Smell top high heaven.

Black man cleans up the mess and the white man enjoys the “fruit”. Memphis needs to stand up and speak out.

Paul Arnett Don’t like it one bit. The nature of the beast is business.

New young, owners+ new old coach??? This thing (firing after good season) happens often but still stinks!! I’ll be watching, side-eyed though

Robin Walker-Diltz That’s the “pits”. So now we’ve got BASKETBALL POLITICS, REALLY!!

All of which raises these two questions: Will Memphis come

Lionel Hollins gets a handshake from an Orange Mound fan during a Round Town Tour stop at the Orange Mound Community Center in 2009. (Photo by Earl Stanback)

together and unite with a new – and still not chosen – coach?

Will we “Grit and Grind” once again when the season starts next October?

NOTE: From the latest in politics to the hottest events in Greater Memphis, get in on the conversations at www.facebook.com/tsdmemphis. And be sure to join us at TSDMemphis.com, where every story offers you the opportunity to share just what you think about the featured topic and/or person.

COACH

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

the best and great success as he moves forward in his career.”

As he moves forward in his career? Whether you are a Grizzlies fan fanatic or just support the team because they are in Memphis, you have to admit that something just doesn’t seem right or fair about that statement.

Coaches are typically dismissed after several losing seasons, not after leading their team to a franchise best 56-26 record. Coaches are historically released for failing in the playoffs, not for their team making the Western Conference Finals. The disbelief and skepticism of Grizz Nation certainly seems warranted about this decision.

Well Coach Hollins, we take this opportunity to thank you for your years of dedication and service to the Memphis Grizzlies.

We thank you for leading our Grizzlies to a record 56 games this year, the most in franchise history.

We thank you for advancing us to the Western Conference finals for the first time ever.

MALONE

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

Ford, he was naturally able to raise more money, “But the difference between now and then is that Luttrell is a Republican,” said Malone.

“If he is so liberal, as he claims, he would be a Democrat.

We (the African American and Democratic voting body) need

DEMS

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

“I have nothing against Steve, he’s a good guy, but we had qualified African Americans running for that office several times and Steve won. A line was drawn to create a district that would have AfricanAmerican leadership and we let it slip by. Why?” Harking back to the era of former U.S. Rep. Harold Ford Sr., Chism said the occupant of that office was able to marshal the strength of local Democrats in a way that Cohen has been unable to match.

On the horizon

Democratic Party Chairman Carson succeeded another young professional, attorney Van Turner, who used Chism’s annual political picnic to announce that he plans to run for the District 12 seat on the County Commission.

Lionel Hollins (left) greets football legend Jim Brown at the MLK Legacy game held at the FedExForum. (Photo: Warren Roseborough)

Griz Head Coach Lionel Hollins (second from right) had a hand in the development of urban gardens for Youth Visions. Also pictured, Justin Simmons (left) and Brian Dobbins. (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)

We thank you for cultivating the Grizzlies’ “grit and grind” culture, which emphasized defense first.

We thank you for a team ranked No. 2 in the league in defensive efficiency this season, with center Marc Gasol winning the 2013 Defensive Player of the Year award and guards Mike Conley and Tony

Allen joining him on the AllDefensive First or Second Team.

Most of all, we thank you for being a class act – both on and off the court – for the city of Memphis.

Parting definitely is sweet sorrow coach. We love you and we wish you and your family all the best!

to pull together and defeat him if we’re going to help our people.”

Luttrell stayed on message, encouraging a look at his record and referencing a distinction between political parties on the state and local levels.

“Just like with the Democratic Party, you have different groups and different factions in the Republican Party. Not all Democrats think the same and

not all Republicans think the same.”

His administration has “worked very hard in economic recruitment to assure that we have created adequate opportunities for minorities and women to apply and be considered for business and advancement in county government,” he said.

“I’m very pleased with what we have accomplished.”

On the move

Like Sidney Chism, commissioners Mike Ritz (Dist.1, Pos. 1), Henri Brooks (Dist. 2, Pos. 2), James Harvey (Dist.

3, Pos. 1), Wyatt Bunker, (Dist.4, Pos. 2) and Steve Mulroy (Dist. 5) will all be vacating their seats in 2014 due to the commissions two term limit rule.

Each commissioner serves four years per elected term.

Commissioner Steve Baiser (Dist. 1, Pos. 3) is serving out an appointed position to fulfill the term of former commissioner Mike Carpenter. After he fulfills Carpenter’s original term in 2014, Baiser will then be eligible to run for the seat under the two-term limit rule.

Carpenter is resigning from the commission to become state director of StudentsFirst, the statewide education reform group headed by former Washington schools chancellor Michelle Rhee.

“We need economic parity in this community for all citizens that are willing to work hard,” Turner said.

Former Memphis City Schools Board Commissioner Patrice Robinson announced that she would be challenging current Shelby County Commissioner Justin Ford to repre-

sent District 3, Position 3.

Other prospective candidates in the May 6th, 2014 Democratic Primary include: Henri Brooks, Juvenile Court Clerk; Tarik Sugarmon, Juvenile Court Judge; Reginald Milton, County Commission, District 10.

NEWS

Tri-State Defender

Page 3

June 13 - 19, 2013

“I’ve tried to put life on the screen that shows the mind, power and strength of African-American women.”

George Tillman Jr.

16-year journey nets local filmmaker Million Woman March documentary Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Tony Jones

Independent filmmaker and photographer George Tillman Jr. steps into the footlights next Wednesday (June 19th) for the first screening of “From Memphis To Philadelphia” – his documentary about the Million Woman March.

For Tillman, it will be the culmination of a 16-year journey.

With the support of several community-minded businesses, the final version of the documentary, narrated by Lestine Bell, will be shown at Studio On The Square at 7 p.m.

The screening will be followed by a panel discussion featuring Dr. Judith Thomas, Lincoln University (Philadelphia), Heritage Tours co-owner Joan Nelson, and others. Entertainment personality Myron Mays will serve as host and moderator.

“I was led to this (project)

by Joan Nelson, and inspired and backed by my parents to see it to completion,” said Tillman.

“In 1997, Joan sought me (out) and invited me to ride on the bus with them to document their journey to attend the Million Woman March in Philadelphia. On the return trip, the documentary started forming in my mind, but it really germinated the next year when I met Emmitt Till’s mother, Mrs. Mamie Till-Mobley, and saw the movie ‘Amistad,’ said Tillman.

“That drove it home for me.

I immediately started cutting the promo for a documentary about the march. The story had to be told.”

Cynthia Marzette is co-

Lestine Bell (left) narrates “From Memphis To Philadelphia.”

Independent filmmaker and photographer George Tillman Jr. credits Cynthia Marzette with giving his Million Woman March documentary the proper focus to drive it to completion. (Photos courtesy of George Tillman Jr.) writer and producer. Tillman credits her for giving the project the proper focus to drive it to completion.

The Million Woman March was originated by Phile Chionesu, a grassroots activist, human rights advocate and Black Nationalist/Freedom Fighter. The march drew an estimated 2 million plus attendees and was accredited as the largest gathering of women in recent history. It was the first event of its type to fully harness the people gathering the

strength of the Internet.

“From Memphis to Philadelphia” centers its story on a panel of march originators – Asia Coney, national cochair, and Planning Committee members Zola Aminata and Paula Peoples presented by Lincoln University, October 19, 2012.

“It opens up with a powerful interview with Mrs. Mobley,” Tillman said, “and comes forward all the way to an in-depth prospective by National Civil Rights Museum President Mrs.

Beverly Robertson. I’ve tried to put life on the screen that shows the mind, power and strength of African-American women.”

WLOK AM 1340 radio, where Tillman hosts the Operation Push hour on Sunday nights, is serving as lead sponsor for the event.

Tillman’s journey

“I’ve been wanting to make films since I was a child watch-

ing Elvis Presley,” Tillman said. “Knowing he was from Memphis made me want to do it. Those first seeds grew when I saw “WattStax” when I was in the 12th grade.”

Still, the urge didn’t really hit home until Tillman’s sophomore year at Fisk University, when we learned Stax was closing.

“We were called into a group viewing, then instructed to write what we would do in the community. I was so inspired by the Bar-Kays doing their song “Son of Shaft,” I wrote that I would like to make a movie from the song and go on to be the president of Stax Records.”

Years later, Tillman actually wrote a screenplay and pursued it with their cooperation.

He eventually met Gordon Parks, the creator of “Shaft,”

and “we became good friends through the years. The project never came to light but it was a major learning point, as was “The Godfather.”

After seeing Spike Lee break through, Tillman said that “let me know that the market was ready for black people to make movies.”

Tillman’s big project didn’t make it to celluloid, but he never stopped pushing.

Advance admission tickets for “From Memphis To Philadelphia” are $10 and can be purchased at Talk of the Town Salon, 302 South Main and at Greg’s Men’s Stores on Riverdale and in Whitehaven.

(George Tillman Jr. can be contacted at 901-907-4412, or by email at tillman1357 @yahoo.com.)

Page 4

OPINION

Tri-State Defender

June 13 - 19, 2013

John H. Sengstacke Publisher (1951 - 1997)

The Mid-Southʼs Best Alternative Newspaper

A Real Times Newspaper

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

James Avery portrayed TV dad and uncle Philip Banks on “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.”

Is ‘Big Brother’ racially biased?

Bill Cosby, as Dr. Cliff Huxtable, was often called “Americaʼs favorite TV dad.”

Red Foxx starred as TV dad Fred Sanford in “Sanford & Son,” which ran from 1972-77.

The legacy of television dads

As far back as television goes, TV dads have been a common figure. They were prominent on older shows such as “Leave it to Beaver,” “My Three Sons” and the “Dick Van Dyke Show.”

Myron And no less so Mays later on with African-American viewers, thanks to shows such as “Sanford & Son,” “The Jeffersons” and “Good Times.”

I’m not really sure why it took so long for shows with African-American dads to be presented to America.

There have always been strong and present Dads in the African-American household.

But let’s be honest, a lot of us didn’t grow up with the intact family structure featured on television. In many cases, there was no Dad around, and many of those who were lucky enough to grow up with a dad in the home didn’t have a Cliff Huxtable or an Uncle Phil.

That’s why I say TV dads were actually more important than we may have realized. They weren’t just dads on TV, they were sort of surrogate fathers for a lot of us in real life. It kinda gave you sort of an imaginary getaway, didn’t it?

Don’t give me that look. You know I’m right? How many of you had childhood fantasies of being “Theo” from the Cosby Show or even “Will” from Fresh Prince? Am I the only one? I doubt it.

Consider this: Wherever there’s a dad, there’s a lesson to be learned, right?

In your average TV sitcom where there is a father figure, one of the kid characters always gets into trouble.

Dad has to issue out the punishment and then there’s the “lesson” learned.

And before the credits roll, the audience gets that warm and fuzzy feeling.

Guess what? Some kids never got that at home. Still, many of them got the chance to learn something.

Some of the greatest lessons I have ever learned came from Mr. Drummond from “Different Strokes,”

Sherman Hemsley was TV dad George Jefferson in “The Jeffersons.”

Actor John Amos is widely known for his role as James Evans Sr. on the “Good Times” TV series in the 1970s.

Steven Keaton from “Family Ties” and Jason Seaver from “Growing Pains.” They weren’t African Americans and I didn’t much care what color they were. I just tuned in every week to get my lesson. And don’t get me started on those warm and fuzzy theme songs (lol).

Many of the lessons I learned stick with me today. Not long ago, I found myself having the “managing your money” talk with one of my sons.

He’s gonna thank Jason Seaver from “Growing Pains” for that one day.

All in all, Dads have long been important and still are. To my own dad, every father who has succeeded, and to those who have at least tried, ”Happy Father’s Day!”

IN THE MAIL

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

rested for marijuana violations that whites. I guess it is easier to arrest from a corner than from a country club!

The rate of arrests for marijuana possession is 716 per 100,000 for African Julianne Americans, Malveaux compared to 192 per 100,000 for whites. The disparity is much higher in some counties.

Does this mean that African Americans are breaking more laws, or that law enforcement officers are targeting some zip codes or communities more regularly? It is a lot easier to pick up a few citizens enjoying marijuana in a park than banging down the doors of an elite country club. Yet data about marijuana usages suggests that there is little to distinguish the habits of African Americans from those of whites.

The only difference is the arrest rate.

Big Brother knows.

Big Brother has driven the kind of demographic that will tell you where you can find low-income, highly unemployed individuals, regardless of race. Big Brother can tell you who can afford lawyers and who cannot.

Big Brother can drive police to investigate the least and the left out, those who are most vulnerable, while deciding to allow others to slink behind their space of class and

privilege. Big Brother can play bang for buck games that make it more profitable to arrest those with few resources in the hood instead of those with home-based protection.

Data collection seems to be a race-neutral process. While data collection is an input, arrests are an output. Between input and output there is the opportunity for racial bias to show up. If white folk and black folk take an equal toke, why are black folk more likely to be arrested? Are zip codes driving public safety officers to one place and deterring them from another?

Differences in marijuana arrests raise real questions about the many ways that data may be used to discriminate. Instead of structural racism, intrinsic racism, and other forms of racism, we now have a data-based racism that is only logical when we ask how data is collected.

Simply put, the zip code data leads people to discriminate, if only because they are being led to single out a certain population.

In other words you can be a nonracial racist. You can let the data, warped though it may be, lead you to biased conclusions. Data-based racism is as corrosive as emotionbased racism. Big Brother’s racial biases is nothing more than par for the course.

(NNPA columnist Julianne Malveaux is a Washington, D.C.based economist and writer. She is President Emerita of Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, N.C.)

Strolling down the beauty aisles

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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)

Tri-State Defender Platform

When George Orwell wrote the novel “1984,” he envisioned a character, real or imagined “Big Brother” who was a know-all, see-all, omnipotent and elusive presence that intruded into lives because he could. Those who knew about “him” were told that they did not exist, but in many ways, Big Brother may not have existed, either. The omnipotence had taken on a life of its own.

Orwell’s book was a book ahead of its time. At a different time, his book could have been dismissed as psychedelic fantasy. Today, he is just a step behind the reality in which we live. Verizon is sharing telephone records. The Department of Justice is monitoring journalists, and the IRS is playing games with those who seek nonprofit status.

People pulled over for a minor traffic violation will have to submit fingerprints to find out if they have broken other laws. Big Brother is alive and well in too many layers of our lives, Meanwhile, market researchers are segmenting populations by zip code and consumer patterns. They can tell you what percentage of whites; African Americans or Latinos live in a certain zip code. They can tell you what you earn, what you are worth, and how many of your neighbors have criminal records. The zip code data drives marketers. Does it also drive law enforcement?

A recent study indicated that African Americans are between 2 and 6 percent more likely to be ar-

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When it comes to looking good, staying on top of your game, and making sure your pursuit of beauty is on point, you know the AfricanAmerican community has that covered. Nielsen’s latest insights highlight hair and skin beauty purchases and behavior, by the numbers among African-Americans and other ethnic groups in the U.S. and Canada in a recent NielsenWire Post titled, “ Looking Good: Appealing to Ethnic Consumers in the Beauty Aisle.”

Ladies, I’m talking to all of us here. Whether we wear our lovely tresses straight, in locks, curled or rock a natural, cute afro-puff – Godgiven or store-bought – we all want to make sure we look presentable and feel good about ourselves, and will spend our last dime to do so.

And, no, even though we usually think of women when we talk about hair care and beauty, women don’t corner the market on giving attention to good looks.

You’ve likely heard the word, metrosexual, coined about 10 years ago to describe men who pay attention to the way they look. It’s OK to ‘fess up, guys. And, I think most women appreciate a man who takes care of himself in this department, right ladies?

As African-American consumers, we are 43 million strong, representing just under 14 percent of the population, and we spend more than 900 percent more on ethnic hair and beauty products than any other eth-

nic group in the U.S. More and more companies are beginning to pay attention.

Have you noticed the increase of nonethnic brands that now offer a “natural” hair care line?

Cheryl We also pay Pearsonclose attention McNeil to our skin, according to the post. African-American consumers purchase skin-bleaching products at a rate of a whopping 434 percent more than the general population.

And before you jump to conclusions, this isn’t necessarily about reinventing ourselves. This is primarily about erasing blemishes, lightening age spots or evening out skin tones.

We purchase more hand lotion, body lotion and all-purpose skin creams than the general population: 54 percent and 40 percent respectively. We are 58 percent less likely to purchase suntan preparations or sunscreens and sunblock products.

Here’s an instance where there are opportunities for marketers in some of these categories because there is opportunity for market growth, particularly in the suntan preparations category.

I have girlfriends who slather themselves with baby oil before

baking in the sun – unprotected.

Most of us now know (but still may ignore) that African Americans are not immune to sun damage – and that all skin can burn – this could be an opportunity for a wide-reaching education campaign for the companies that manufacture sunscreens and sunblocks. (Even if you’re not afraid of sunburn or skin cancer, what about premature wrinkling or skin that could turn to a consistency that feels like leather from years of over-exposure? I’m just saying).

As a matter of fact, now I can get a tan right in my bathroom –without even being exposed to sunlight. I use gradual tanning lotions which have SPF already included. This way, I can protect my skin and have the luxurious bronzing color highlights that I want.

So, you see, beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. It is imperative that you choose companies who have your best interests, needs front and center. You’ve got to make sure you have nothing but the best with you on your pursuit of beauty.

Please take this into consideration the next time you stroll down those beauty aisles. This time, you’ll just be better equipped with additional knowledge in tow.

(NNPA columnist Cheryl Pearson-McNeil is senior vice president of Public Affairs and Government Relations for Nielsen. For more information, visit www.nielsenwire.com.)

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MONEY MATTERS

Disability income insurance: Do you need it?

One might assume that most serious disabilities result from a sudden, unlucky accident. Surprisingly, 90 percent of all disability claims are for common health conditions such as cancer and back problems.¹ Disability insurance replaces a portion of lost income, up to policy limits, if a debilitating injury or chronic illness prevents a breadwinner from working. This type of protection can provide a lifeline for people who may otherwise be unable to support their families, but it can be just as critical for older and/or affluent workers during their peak earning years.

Because the benefits paid from an employer’s group plan, workers’ compensation, or Social Security probably won’t come close to replacing a six-figure income, well-paid professionals in the midst of productive careers generally have much to lose if they experience a disability and are unable to work. Individual disability income policies offer additional coverage and special features that can make them appropriate for highly compensated workers and professionals with special skills.

Benefit basics

States may require employers to provide short-term disability coverage (or sick leave) for a few weeks or months, but only about onethird of American workers have access to long-term disability insurance through their employers.

Workers may want to purchase an individual disability income policy if they are selfemployed or their employers do not offer coverage – or to supplement group coverage so that benefits may more closely match their current incomes.

Companies that offer longterm coverage typically provide policies that replace only 50 percent to 60 percent of base income (not including bonuses, commissions, or company contributions to retirement plans). In addition, monthly benefits are generally

BUSINESS

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June 13 - 19, 2013

capped at $5,000 per month.

If a disa b l e d worker collects workers’ compensation or Social Security Charles Sims Jr., CFP b e n e f i t s , the employer’s plan may reduce the worker’s benefits by the same amount. Disability benefits are also taxable to the worker if the employer contributes to the premium. On the other hand, benefits from an individual policy (paid for by the policyholder) are generally tax-free.

Customizing coverage

Some policies end payments when the disabled worker’s condition improves enough for him or her to perform any job, even if the salary is significantly less than what was earned before the disability.

You might prefer to purchase an individual policy that will pay benefits if you cannot perform your “own occupation.”

Residual coverage may help you replace lost income if you can only work part-time or at a lower-paying job after you return to work.

Other riders may allow you to add coverage without additional underwriting as your income increases, to extend the policy period past age 65 (to your expected retirement age), or to convert your policy to a long-term-care policy after you reach a certain age.

The potential for health problems tends to become a larger concern for workers aged 50 and older. An individual disability policy that has been tailored to suit your personal situation could help preserve your income, assets, and lifestyle.

(Charles Sims, Jr., is president/CEO of The Sims Financial Group. Contact him at 901-682-2410 or visit www.

SimsFinancialGroup.com.)

ON OUR WAY TO WEALTH

African-American Music Appreciation Month:

Two groups pursue powerhouse status for Memphis music “The soulfulness of jazz and storytelling in the blues inspired a cultural renaissance, while the potent words of gospel gave strength to a generation that rose above the din of hatred to move our country toward justice and equality for all. Today, African-American musicians continue to create new musical genres and transform the scope of traditional musical formats. The artistic depth of soul, rock and roll, and hiphop not only bring together people across our Nation, but also energize and shape the creativity of artists around the world.”

– President Obama African-American Music Appreciation Month is in full stride, as are the Memphis Music Foundation and Consortium Memphis Music Town – two organizations committed to Memphis’ reemergence as a music-industry powerhouse.

The Memphis Music Foundation (MMF) has drawn a bead on leveling the playing field for Memphis artists in the music business, with myriad programs designed to that end. And The Consortium Memphis Music Town, aka The Consortium MMT, is a national music mentorship non-profit.

The MMF

T h e Memphis M u si c Foundation (www. memphismeans m u Carlee sic.com) McCullough has myriad programs designed to aid Memphis artists. Let’s take a peek.

Backstage Pass gives members of the Memphis Music Foundation and Resource Center access to established music industry professionals. Industry newcomers and veterans hear “secrets to success” and learn steps to improve their craft during indepth conversation.

Memphis Music Foundation Showcases present “the best emerging talent in Memphis” to industry players from diverse genres and local music-loving audiences. A committee of local music professionals selects the bands.

Memphis Ambassadors brings Memphis artists to major music industry gatherings around the country. Launched with a Memphis caravan traveling to represent the city at the South by Southwest Mu-

Scam alert; seniors beware

Tennessee seniors and persons with disabilities need to be aware of a potential scam involving recorded phone calls promising free or low cost personal emergency or medical alert systems.

“The purpose of these calls is to possibly gain access to credit card or other sensitive information” said Jim Shulman, executive director of the Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability.

Seniors and persons with disabilities are told they are recipients of free personal emergency and medical alert services at little or no cost.

The typical phone message says that someone has or-

dered this system for you and the call is to confirm shipping instructions. The listener is instructed to press a button to speak to a customer service representative.

Pressing the button connects the listener to a “representative” who asks for credit card and personal information. If the listener already has a system, the representative poses as the existing provider.

sic Festival in Austin, Texas, the program has continued with groups traveling to the Bluebird Cafe in Nashville, as well as continuing appearances at SXSW. Through the Piggyback Program, Memphis bands merge with established musicians touring cities within close geographical proximity of Memphis. MMF provides the emerging act with tour support and a jumpstart to building a solid regional fan base.

MMF’s flagship is The Memphis Music Resource Center (MRC) – a business solutions workspace and information center for Memphis musicians and music industry professionals. Computers, fax machines and telephones are all available, as well as information about publishing, licensing and publicity.

MRC also provides support for creating business plans, production training on Pro Tools and Logic, designing posters, tweaking your video and a range of other needs.

Music Consortium The

Consortium

MMT

(www.theconsortiummmt.org ) is dedicated to developing a new, young talent pool. The idea is to bring back the thriving music industry veterans, who will be passing techniques and improvement processes on to them.

The Consortium MMT’s goal is to offer an opportunity for young songwriters, artists, producers and home studio owners to receive information, insight and application steps from professionals with proven track records.

The seasoned professionals look to detail what made their careers successful without compromising the gifts and talents of the emerging talents in the program.

“This program is not for talent who are just starting out, but for those who have had a passion and development ongoing and have been performing, writing and producing and who are seeking greater accomplishment on their journey to success,” says legendary songwriter David Porter.

NEXT artists.

WEEK:

Local

RELIGION

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Tri-State Defender

June 13 - 19, 2013

Healthy Church Challenge winners reach the ‘Summit’ Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Wiley Henry

Tears welled up in Tonya Thomas’ eyes at The Obesity Summit after an official at BlueCross® BlueShield® of Tennessee announced that she’d won first place in the individual category for the most weight lost – 42.6 pounds – during the Healthy Church Challenge 100-day weight loss competition.

Thomas began her weight loss journey in January, when she tipped the scale at 274 lbs.

On Feb. 2, she signed up for the Challenge and weighed in at 233.6 lbs., having already lost 40.4 lbs. in one month.

She lost an additional 42.6 lbs. during the Challenge for a total weight loss of 83 lbs.

BlueCross® BlueShield® of Tennessee presented the Healthy Church Challenge and The Obesity Summit to educate participants and encourage them to eat a wellbalanced diet, exercise and live a healthy lifestyle, both spiritually and physically.

“I really worked hard,” said Thomas, who struggles with diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. In 2012, she was blindsided by a stroke. “I told the Lord, ‘If you bring me out of this, I will take care of the temple you’ve

given me.’”

A member of Mt. Sinai M.B. Church-Lauderdale, Thomas joined the Healthy Church Challenge to give herself that extra push she needed to work off the pounds. “If I hadn’t won the Challenge, I would still be a winner, because I learned to eat healthy and exercise more,” said Thomas, who plans to buy workout gear and exercise equipment with her $500 gift certificate.

Thomas’ church team was just as happy for her as they were for themselves. They, too, were surprised when the names of two others on the team were called. Carolyn Quinn, who came in second, lost 34.6 lbs. and received a $250 gift certificate. Christopher Holmes, who finished third, lost 34.4 lbs. and received a $50 gift certificate.

In the church team category, Bethlehem M.B. Church in Millington won first place and received a $5,000 gift certificate. St. Andrew A.M.E. Church came in second to win a $2,500 gift certificate. And Fullview M.B. Church in Bartlett, which finished first last year, finished third and received a $1,500 gift certificate.

Each gift certificate will be redeemed at Sports Authority.

Dolly Hurd still can’t believe her church team beat out 32 other churches to win first

place and a hefty check for sports equipment. The team lost a combined weight of 270.28 lbs., which was based on weight loss measured at the final weigh-in.

“When we entered the competition, we wanted to fellowship as a group and eat healthy,” said Hurd, Bethlehem’s team coordinator. “I gave them a diet to follow and some healthy eating tips to get them started.”

A certified yoga and Zumba instructor, Hurd said she’s trying to challenge church members to exercise more and prepare them for a church-sponsored 5k-run in September.

“With the $5,000 gift certificate,” she said, “we can get a lot of equipment.”

At the Summit, internationally-renowned fitness expert Donna Richardson said men and women must be courageous, relentless and tenacious about taking control of their health. “If you take care of your temple, your temple will take care of you,” she said.

Richardson encouraged participants to move their bodies and led a light workout from the pulpit of Breath of Life Christian Center, the Summit venue.

She asked participants to join her upfront as she exercised to up-tempo, gospel music.

“Some of us don’t appreciate good health until we expe-

Lawinter Hopkins gets her finger pricked to determine her blood sugar level at The Obesity Summit. (Photo: Wiley Henry/The Carter Malone Group) rience bad health,” she said.

“You got to be active five days a week. What you have been doing is not working.”

Richardson told the story about a friend whose four siblings died in their 50’s because of bad health.

“Your body needs movement to stay healthy,” she explained, adding, “There are consequences to bad health.

There’s a danger in doing nothing.”

The Rev. Kenneth Robinson, M.D., pastor of St. Andrew AME Church and the public health policy advisor to Shelby County Mayor Mark Luttrell, topped off the Summit with a message he derived from the book of Daniel 1:8.

“This was a test, a 10-day trial…,” said Rev. Robinson, equating Daniel’s refusal to eat the king’s food with the unhealthy foods that AfricanAmericans tend to eat, which puts them at risk for any num-

ber of debilitating illnesses, such as diabetes, high blood pressure and cancer.

“It’s about changing how you eat and how active you are,” he told the participants and added, “Daniel preferred to eat vegetables and drink water rather than defile himself by eating meat from the king’s table.”

He said Daniel and his brothers were going to be compared to others who ate the king’s food to see who would be healthier and better nourished after 10 days. Of those who participated in the Challenge, he asked, “Can you keep it up?”

Leona Buchanan, a member of Fullview M.B. Church, plans to take what she’s learned at the Summit and apply it to her daily life. “I learned how to eat healthy and exercise. Now I’m motivated,” she said. “The Summit helped me a lot.”

There was something at the Summit for everyone, including health screenings and breakout sessions.

Yusef Boyd, a certified fitness trainer and owner of BIOMechaniks in Germantown, talked to a group about the importance of working out. Jacqueline Daughtry, RD, LDN, clinical nutrition manager at The Regional Medical Center at Memphis, talked about healthy eating habits, while Chef Timothy Moore, a personal plant-based chef and wellness coach, demonstrated a few vegan dishes that participants can make at home.

Danielle Avery, a registered nurse at Methodist University Hospital, did not participate in the 100-day challenge, but she had this to say about the competition and the Obesity Summit itself: “I wanted to be supportive, to see what you’re doing… and I’m impressed.”

Summer revival focus on healing, wholeness

By faith…

Jean Saulsberry and DaʼShawn Denson were part of the celebration at Monumental Baptist Church during the observance of Heritage Day 2013 last Sunday (June 9). “A Giant Among Us” was the theme, reflecting the evolution of the host pastor and civil rights icon, the Rev. Samuel “Billy” Kyles. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

Making right choices…

Miracle Temple Non-Denominational Church, at 663 West Shelby Drive, will host a two-night summer revival focused on healing and wholeness on June 20-21.

The revival will feature Evangelist Paul Smith of Fultondale, Ala. Smith, who has traversed the country preaching for 40 years, is an associate minister of New Hope Ministries, Inc. Services will begin at 7 each night. The Rev. Robert Flannagan is the host pastor.

For more information call the church at 901-785-9841.

DEADLINE

Life Choice Ministry for Girls had a 4-day Bootcamp Training Program at UT Martin in Ripley on June 4-7. Girls 10 to 18 focused on discipline, including respect and obedience to authority and following and obeying instructions. Mary Lockett-Beard founded the ministry in 2006. For more information, call 731-635-7775.

(Courtesy photo)

PRAISE CONNECT

Deadline for all religion articles is Monday, 5 p.m.

Send items to Tri-State Defender, 203 Beale St., Suite 200; Memphis, TN 38103, Email items to editorial@tristatedefender.com.

-A WEEKLY DIRECTORY OF MINISTERS & CHURCHES-

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

767 Walker Avenue Memphis, TN 38126

ASSOCIATE MINISTERS

901-946-4095 fax 948-8311

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

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

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

Dr. & Rev. Mrs. Reginald Porter

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

I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.

— Proverbs 1:7

—Ecclesiastes 9:11

ST. ANDREW A.M.E. CHURCH 867 SOUTH PARKWAY EAST Memphis, TN 38106

(901) 948-3441

Early Morning..........7:45 AM Church School..........9:45 AM Morning Worship......11:00 AM Bible Study For Youth and Adults Tuesday - 7:00 PM “Spirit, Soul, and Body!”

AM 1070 WDIA Sundays, 10:00-10:30 AM

TV Cable Access Broadcast Tuesdays, 7:30 PM, Channel 17 Website:www.saintandrewamec.org Child Care Center (901) 948-6441 Monday-Friday 6 AM- 5:30 PM Emergency Food Pantry & Clothes Closet Wednesday 6 PM-8 PM

Rev. Kenneth S. Robinson, Pastor Rev. Marilynn S. Robinson, Pastor

“Ministering to Memphis-Spirit, Soul and Body”

Tri-State Defender

RELIGION

June 13 - 19, 2013

Now in charge…

The Rev. Henry Louis Key, who was installed as pastor of St. John Baptist Church, 640 Vance Ave. last Sunday, “opens the doors of the church.” Dr. Randolph Meade Walker, pastor of Castalia Baptist Church, focused on love during his installation sermon. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

For those in need…

Dr. Randolph Meade Walker, pastor of Castalia Baptist Church, presents Lakesha Williams, financial developer for the American Red Cross, with checks written for the Africa Relief Fund and the Tornado Victims of Moore, Okla., during services at the church last Sunday (June 9). (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

Page 7

COMMUNITY

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Tri-State Defender

June 13 - 19, 2013

CHEF TIMOTHY

Keeping up the good work all part of the plan for young entrepreneurs Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Brittany Jackson

Summer is just around the corner and for the sister-and-brother team of Zaadia and Zayrion Harris, and their cousin, Marliesha Malone, it’s time to push forward as young entrepreneurs.

Actually, the trio – Zaadia, 17, Zayrion, 16, and 21-year-old Marliesha – is already at work. Last Sunday (June 9), they debuted their Kustom Kosher’s spring/summer collection at a launch party at Underwraps Salon, 7981 Dexter Rd. #106 in Cordova.

Determination, creativity and goals form the foundation of what they are building on. And they’ve got supporters.

“I was invited to the launch by a friend and decided to purchase a few shirts and support what Kustom Kosher is doing,” said Brandon Blakemore, 21.

The launch gave Kustom Kosher the opportunity to showcase previous work and introduce new designs.

“We’re not just a T-shirt company,” Marliesha, the chief operating officer. “We’re a brand.”

Located inside the Underwraps Salon, Kustom Kosher (www.kustomkosher.com) began operations in April 2012.

“The idea came about one day while we were shopping. We realized that at most stores you don’t get the option of customized clothing, said Marliesha. “So, we figured why not create something that provided consumers with just that.”

Vice President Zayrion Harris said their peers were “extremely supportive of us starting the business. All were itching to see what we would produce and were all eager to buy once we revealed the products.”

Kustom Kosher has a lawyer to help with the legal aspect of the business. The venture is guided by a business plan that helps them get products on the market and calls for making the name known as quickly as possible. The goal is to expand beyond Memphis and make Kustom Kosher a household name.

Marliesha serves as the creative

(l-r) Marliesha Malone serves Brandon Blakemore, a willing customer. (Photos: Shirley Jackson)

(left to right) Zayrion Harris, Celeste Harris, Zaadia Harris, and Marliesha Malone designer. Zaadia, the President, is the graphic designer, and Zayrion, the technology expert, handles the website and social media pages.

Kustom Kosher is self-funded and all the revenue goes back into the company. Marliesha, Zaadia and Zayrion are on site each day, with at

least an hour spent discussing designs, advertising techniques and other aspects to prepare the company for greater success.

Travis and Celeste Harris have supported the trio’s entreprenurial yearnings ever since their children, Zaadia and Zayrion, and their niece, Marlilesha first presented them with the idea.

Celeste Harris is the owner and CEO of Underwraps Salon and Underwraps, Inc. She has been a hair stylist since the age of 8 and has owned her own hair salon for 10 years. She also serves as manager and CEO of Kustom Kosher, assisting the trio with deadlines and decision-making.

Reflection on the launch event, Travis Harris said, “This was an outstanding event hosted by three growing, young and energetic individuals with amazing ideas in starting their own T-shirt line. I look forward to the upcoming designs they have in Kustom Kosher. I love them all and I want them to keep up the good work.”

New leaders for NAACP youth The Memphis NAACP Youth Council has welcomed in new leadership for the coming year.

Officers and committee chairs were installed at the recent meeting of the Youth Council in their traditional candlelight ceremony.

Madeleine Taylor, executive director of the Memphis Branch NAACP, conducted the installation service, which was followed by an address on leadership by D. John Jackson, vice president Global Customer Services/Customer Identity at FedEx. The officers for 2012-2013 are: President, Cache’ Truitt; 1st Vice President, Gabrielle Taylor; 2nd Vice President, Krysten Harvey; Secretary, Autumn White; Assistant

Secretary, Sharmaine Burton; Treasurer, Marissa Knox; Assistant Treasurer, P.J. Lester; Parliamentarian, Tarrolyn Barros; Historian, Angelika Gilbert; Committee Chairs: Health Committee, Destiny McClaine/Marissa Knox; Political Action Committee, Glenn Vaulx/Brian Turner; Education Committee, Helen Bond/Destiny McClaine; Juvenile Justice Committee, Autumn White/Caira Ellis; Fundraising Committee, Gabrielle Taylor/Krysten Harvey; Black History Committee, Tarrolyn Barras; Membership Committee, Cache’ Truitt/Gabrielle Taylor; Communication Committee, Cache’ Truitt/Caira Ellis.

A traditional candlelight ceremony marked the installation of new officers and committee chairs for the NAACP Youth Council. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley) The new officers and committee chairs will begin work following a trip to the National NAACP Convention in July.

BRIEFS & THINGS

Training Camp for Dads set for June 15

The 3rd Annual Memphis Training Camp for Dads (TC4D) is scheduled for June 15th from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Fogelman Executive Center at the University of Memphis The free event celebrates fatherhood and is designed for those who are interested in “learning ways to be the best father possible.”

The morning includes workshops and sessions. During the Hall of Fame luncheon, Mayor AC Wharton Jr. will present awards to individuals who have been “great fathers, role models, and patriarchs in our community.” Former NBA star and community advocate Elliot Perry will be the luncheon’s keynote speaker.

Hall of Fame Award winners include: Franchise Player – Stanley Richardson; Man in Motion – Martin Hurley; Second Half Comeback – Willie Burns; Defensive Guard (Military Dad) – Chief Jeffrey Bryant; Most Valuable Player (Community Patriarch) – Dr. Craig Strickland.

Camp sponsors are Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, Families Matter, Shelby County Head Start, The Urban Child Institute and The New Tri-State Defender. Community Partners include the Memphis and Shelby County Office of Reentry,

Memphis City Schools PACE & Watch D.O.G.S., and 100 Black Men of Memphis.

To register, go to www.memphistn .gov/fatherhood. For more information, email fatherhood@memphistn .gov or call (901) 576-6507.

Birmingham welcomes young men from Memphis

Birmingham Mayor William Bell on Tuesday announced the City of Birmingham’s support for a Memphis-flavored mentoring event on Father’s Day weekend.

The 5th Annual “Man of the House” Mentoring Event comes to Magic City on Saturday, June 15th.

The annual event for young men who are being raised in single-parent homes has been hosted for the past four years at the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis. With renovations underway, the group’s organizers jumped at the chance to experience the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute (BCRI).

“There’s no more significant place to hold this kind of gathering than in the shadows of the greatest Civil Rights battles in history,” said Tony Nichelson, founder of The 110 Institute, a Memphis-based educational development firm.

“Mayor Bell and the Birmingham City Council, along with the city’s

Convention & Visitors Bureau have been incredibly supportive since our first conversations back in October.”

The young men from Memphis will arrive on Saturday morning, June 15th, tour the BCRI, and host a “Gratitude Rally” in Kelly Ingram Park at noon, The public is invited to attend, and fathers are also encouraged to bring sons to the event. For more information, log on to www.manofthehouse.net, or call 901-336-2399.

Black Girls Code event on June 19th

The public and media are invited to attend a meet and greet for the Memphis Chapter of Black Girls CODE to learn about its upcoming workshop and the various ways the chapter plans to impact the community.

“Demand for our workshops has been overwhelming, as has been the support Black Girls CODE has received from the Memphis community,” said BGC Memphis Team Lead, Meka Egwuekwe. “Parents, sponsors, and volunteers alike see the need to encourage girls of color to consider careers in STEM, especially in a city like ours.”

The reception will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 pm at the Benjamin Hooks Central Library, 3030 Poplar Ave., on Wednesday, June

Council members said farewell to the graduating seniors, who donned T-shirts reflecting their college choices,

19th. Individuals interested in volunteering are encouraged to meet the team to see how they can get involved with upcoming workshops.

Potential business sponsors also are encouraged to attend.

Established in 2011 by Memphian Kimberly Bryant, Black Girls CODE has been a frontrunner in the drive to change the face of technology and eventually reaching more than 800 girls in 16 cities across the globe.

“It is such a pleasure to see the Memphis Chapter of Black Girls CODE flourish and grow after two sold-out workshops in 2013. Introducing girls of color in the Memphis community to technology at this critical juncture in their lives is a critical imperative for both our city and the nation at large,” said Bryant.

For additional information, contact Meka Egwuekwe, Core Team Lead, at meka@lokion.com or call 901-484-4203.

BRIEFLY: Agape Child & Family Services will host its 15th Annual HeartLight event, featuring Tim Tebow, on Saturday, June 15 at 7 p.m. at the FedExForum. The event is focused on raising awareness and support for homelessness, orphan care and under-resourced communities in the Mid-South. Tickets are on sale now at agapemeanslove.org/heartlight-2013.

Drinking coconut water has its overall benefits

Coconut water is one of the most popular beverages available on tropical islands and resorts. It has been for hundreds of years. It is an allnatural, hydrating, nutrientfilled, clear fluid that is found on the inside of the fruit, which is Dr. Timothy encased in a hard brown shell.

Moore You’d need the proper tools to crack the shell and extract the liquid.

I’m often asked about the benefits of drinking coconut water and why it seems to be the drink of choice for a lot of people. Coconut water has been traditionally used to treat a variety of health problems, such heat strokes, digestive complications, constipation, dehydration, diarrhea, fatigue, hives, low libido, and urinary tract infections. It has been shown to improve one’s overall health.

With the hot summer months approaching, coconut water not only prevents dehydration – which is caused by disease – it can be used to prevent exhaustion and assist when asserting or engaging in excessive physical activities. It also has been known to cool down or regulate body temperature.

The benefits of coconut water has even been recommended by the World Health Organization as an effective tool in the battle against dehydration caused by dysentery, cholera and other dehydrating diseases. More deaths occur as a result of the aforementioned diseases than the infections themselves.

Staying hydrated is the key to surviving the summer heat wave. In extreme conditions, the heat wave will continue to sizzle well into the night and make it very uncomfortable for most people to relax and fall to sleep.

Coconut water, in this case, can be used to hydrate the body.

Coconut water has been a beverage of choice for many years in Asia and the Pacific. So why did it take so long for it to surface in North America? Transportation. Coconut water has to be refrigerated during the transportation process and must not come into contact with oxygen.

The fruit itself has a very short life span and likewise must not come into contact with oxygen for too long.

Fermentation will begin and the coconut and water will taste sour and smell. It will attract bacteria and complications will arise after it is digested.

The commercialization of coconut water prevents it from fermenting and souring as quickly as the natural fruit. However, the rich flavors are lost when processing fresh coconut, which diminishes the nutritional value as it does other processed foods.

As with any commercial product, coconut water must be pasteurized – just like milk – to kill bacteria.

Some products, however, are stored on shelves for months and even years. Coconut water can be frozen for no more than two months, however.

If you choose to drink commercial coconut water, the nutrients that are naturally found in the fresh coconut fruit and water are lost due to the high temperatures used in the sterilization process.

For example, coconut liquid is pasteurized at 400°F. If you are shopping for a coconut, don’t be afraid to ask how long the fruit was transported or how old the coconut is? In some cases, ask if you can open the coconut to be on the safe side. You don’t want to leave the store with a bad coconut.

There are so many benefits of drinking fresh coconut water versus sugary, commercialized drinks. If you want to remain hydrated, refreshed and relaxed, you’d need to stay away from high calorie drinks, which can cause a number of health problems.

In some cases, you might not be purchasing real coconut water, as advertisers would have you to believe.

So do yourself a favor and purchase a young coconut and enjoy the taste.

But don’t forget to drink plenty of water, because coconut water cannot replace a refreshing glass of water.

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

Tri-State Defender

SPORTS

FedExForum to host inaugural AAC men’s hoops championship The FedExForum will be the site of the 2014 American Athletic Conference Men’s Basketball Championship, Commissioner Mike Aresco announced this week.

“We are very excited to have the first American Athletic Conference championship at FedExForum,” said Aresco.

“We received significant interest from many outstanding venues.

FedExForum is an outstanding facility and it, the city of Memphis, the University of Memphis and the local community will combine to create a wonderful inaugural event that our teams, coaches, administrators and fans will embrace and enjoy.”

The dates of the 2014 championship are March 12-15. Each game of the 10-team tournament will be televised on the ESPN networks. The championship game on Saturday, March 15 will be televised on ESPN. The tournament will begin with two first-round games on Wednesday, March 12. Two quarterfinal doubleheaders will be played on Thursday, March 13, followed by a semifinal doubleheader on Friday, March 14.

Game times will be announced at a later date.

“We are very excited that the American Athletic Conference has selected Memphis & FedExForum to host its inaugural conference

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American Athletic Conference Commissioner Mike Aresco (center), with University of Memphis coach Josh Pastner (right) and Jason Wexler, chief operating officer for the Memphis Grizzlies & FedExForum. (Photo: Warren Roseborough) tournament in 2014,” said Jason Wexler, chief operating officer for the Memphis Grizzlies and FedExForum.

The first season of men’s basketball under the American banner will include a strong nucleus of teams, starting with Louisville, the 2013 national champion.

Memphis is coming off a 31-5 season, which included advancing to the third round of the NCAA Championship. Temple also played in the third round of the NCAAs while compiling a 24-10 mark. Cincinnati finished 22-12 while participating in its third straight NCAA tourney.

Connecticut, UCF and Houston all enjoyed 20-win seasons.

For 2013-14, the American Athletic Conference will include the University of Central Florida, University of Cincinnati, University of Connecticut, University of Houston, University of Louisville, University of Memphis, Rutgers University, University of South Florida, Southern Methodist University and Temple University.

NOTE: The FedEx Forum will also host the sweet sixteen and elite eight of the 2014 NCAA Championship in the South Regional.

Reign makers (l-r): William Bedford, president of basketball operations; Ben Richerson, video analyst; Paul Wooten, assistant coach; head coach Sidney Atkins; Leroy Watson, public relations; and Winston Banks, general manager. (Photos: George Tillman Jr.)

When it’s the Reign, ‘serious ballers’ try to stand out

Sidney Adkins, head coach of the ABA’s Bluff City Reign, approaches tryouts for the team looking for players that will fit into a winning mix.

That was the case again last Saturday (June 8) during a tryout-session at Carver High School. “(We’re) looking for guys with good defense skills,” said Adkins, “and if the guys are good, team-concept players.”

The session attracted a good group, although not as many big men as he would have liked to have seen, said Adkins. The energy, however, reflected “serious playing,” he said.

Recent college graduates, local professional players and “serious

CLASSIFIEDS

June 13 - 19, 2013

ballers” were invited to the first tryouts of 2013.

The ABA exists to give basketball players an opportunity to continue pursuing their dream of playing professional basketball at a high level, says Adkins and the Bluff City Reign administrators.

“It could be a veteran coming off injury or on the downside of his career. They all get a chance to be seen by scouts from all over the World….In the end, we’re here as a brief pit stop for our best players.

“If he can really play at a high level, we want him to move on and do bigger and better things. We’ll constantly replenish our roster with

solid local talent, and we will win.”

The Reign has made the playoffs each of their two years in existence, including a trip to the ABA Elite Eight following the 2012-’13 season.

Last season, despite carrying as few as six players out of town for road games, the Reign made serious noise in the ABA with a roster of nothing but Memphis players. Point guard Maurice Mickens (Middle College High School, Southwest Tennessee Community College and The LeMoyne-Owen Colleage) made the ABA All-Star roster and was the All-Star Game MVP with a monster performance: 35 points, 8 assists and 8 steals.

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Applicant: NESROU HOUSSEN D/B/A: RIVERDALE SHELL EXPRESS Location: 6975 E SHELBY DR Anyone desiring to circulate a petition FOR or AGAINST said establishment selling beer at this location must secure the petition blanks for the undersigned Commission at 2714 Union Ave. Extended 1st Floor. Must be filed no later than Tuesday, June 18, 2013.

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Tri-State Defender Classifieds get results!

Guess who sang it?

ENTERTAINMENT Tri-State Defender, Thursday, June 13 -19, 2013, Page 10

AFRICAN-AMERICAN MUSIC APPRECIATION MONTH

See if you can identify these lyrics from African-American artists.

The Root

1. “So we’re going to take the beginning of this song And do it easy…”

2. “She told my baby we’d dance till three Then she looked at me Then showed a photo My baby cried His eyes were like mine…”

3. “I hear babies cry I watch them grow They’ll learn much more Than I’ll ever know …”

4. “With a great track pumpin’ Everybody’s jumpin Go ahead and twist your back and get your body bumpin’!”

5. “There is a blue one who can’t accept the green one For living with a fat one trying to be a skinny one And different strokes for different folks…”

6. “Drive my own cars and wear my own clothes I hang out tough I’m a real boss …”

7. “She give me money When I’m in need Yeah, she’s a kind of friend, indeed …”

8. “Just some thoughts for the mind I take a glimpse into time Watch the blimp read ‘The World is Mine’ …”

9.“I’m feeling good from my hat to my shoe Know where I’m going and I know what to do I’ve tied up my point of view …”

10. “Since you left me if you see me with another girl Seeming like I’m having fun Although she may be cut She’s just a substitute …”

11. “You can break hearts and manipulate minds Or surrender, act tender, be gentle and kind You always know what to say and do Cold flip when you think your man is playing you …”

12. “Well, you gotta, you gotta way that you’re makin’ me Feel I can, feel I can do anything for you baby…”

* Answers on page 11

1. Ike & Tina Turner The Song: “Proud Mary” (1970) Fun Fact: Part of the infamously tragic couple’s Workin’ Together album, the song, though one of Tina Turner’s defining hits, was originally recorded (with a much different arrangement)

by Creedence Clearwater Revival in 1969.

Liberty Records 2. Michael Jackson The Song: “Billie Jean” (1983) Fun Fact: The video for “Billie Jean” was one of the first from a black artist played on MTV, and its success is widely credited for diversifying the fledgling network’s music programming.

Epic Records

3. Louis Armstrong The Song: “What a Wonderful World” (1967) Fun Fact: Written by Bob Thiele and George David Weiss to bring some positivity to the era’s racial and political strife and recorded by Armstrong at the age of 66, the song would not reach peak popularity in the U.S. until after Armstrong’s death in 1971. It was, however, an immediate smash hit in the U.K., becoming the highest-selling single there in 1968.

ABC Records 4. Mary J. Blige The Song: “Family Affair” (2001) Fun Fact: If we had included the words – and we use that term loosely – “hateration,” “holleration” or “dancerie,” this one would have been a dead giveaway. This modern classic, recorded during a time when Blige was reveling in her new drama-free life, has major longevity. She brought the house down when she performed it in Charlotte, N.C., at the 2012 Democratic National Convention, 11 years after the track was released.

MCA 5. Sly and the Family Stone The Song: “Everyday People” (1968) Fun Fact: This ode to unity and understanding has been covered by as diverse a range of artists as you could possibly imagine – think Aretha Franklin, Maroon 5, Dolly Parton and Joan Jett and the Blackhearts (to name a few).

It was famously sampled for Arrested Development’s 1992 hit, “People Everyday.”

Epic Records 6. Snoop Dogg (aka Snoop Lion) The Song: “Drop It Like It’s Hot” (2004) Obvious Fact: It was very difficult to find an appropriate lyric to share from any of his songs.

Fun Fact: This track, recorded with Pharrell

Williams, was the rapper’s first No. 1 hit on th Billboard 100.

Geffen Records

7. Ray Charles The Song: “I Got a Woman” (1954) Fun Fact: If you guessed Kanye West, sham on you! Of course, West famously sampled th R&B legend’s classic for his 2005 hit “ intro ducing the tune to several new generations o fans. The original, a reworked version of “M Jesus Is All the World to Me,” is, according t Songfacts, the first to mix secular lyrics wit the stylistic elements of gospel.

Atlantic Records

8. Nas The Song: “If I Ruled the World,” feat. Lau ryn Hill (1996) Fun Fact: This hit – Nas’ first on the R& charts – would be nothing without its three ma jor musical influences: “Friends” by Whodini, “If I Ruled the World” by Kurtis Blow an “Walk Right Up to the Sun” by The Delfonics.

Columbia Records 9. Patti LaBelle The Song: “New Attitude” (1985) Fun Fact: LaBelle shot the first music video of her already long, storied career for this song.

MCA 10. Smokey Robinson & the Miracles The Song: “The Tracks of My Tears” (1965) Fun Fact: According to Rolling Stone, Pet Townshend of The Who was so obsessed wit songwriter Robinson’s use of the word “substi tute” that he was actually inspired to write th 1966 song “Substitute” for his band.

Motown

11. LL Cool J The Song: “Around the Way Girl” (1990) Fun Fact: This ode to ladies with extension in their hair, bamboo earrings and Fendi bag samples Mary Jane Girls’ “All Night Long and Keni Burke’s “Risin’ to the Top.” Def Jam

12. Whitney Houston The Song: “I’m Your Baby Tonight” (1990) Fun Fact: The legend goes that after Housto was famously booed at the Soul Train Musi Awards in 1989 for sounding too mainstrea (and “singing white), she took some creativ control of her third studio album, which share a title with this track. To shed her cookie-cutte image, she solicited the help of producer Ken ny “Babyface” Edmonds, who infused the record with his signature funk-pop timbre.

Arista Records

Answers to quiz on page 10

Guess who sang it?

AFRICAN-AMERICAN MUSIC APPRECIATION MONTH

ENTERTAINMENT

Tri-State Defender

June 13 -19, 2013

Page 11

ENTERTAINMENT

Page 12

June 13 -19, 2013

OPENING THIS WEEK

Kam’s Kapsules:

Weekly Previews That Make Choosing a Film Fun

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Kam Williams

For movies opening June 14, 2013

BIG BUDGET FILMS

“Man of Steel” (PG-13 for profanity, sci-fi violence and intense action sequences) Henry Cavill stars as Clark Kent in this reboot of the Superman series about an alien raised from infancy by adoptive parents (Kevin Costner and Diane Lane) in Kansas where, as a young man, he’s called upon to save Earth from extraterrestrial invaders from his home planet, Krypton.

With Amy Adams as Lois Lane, Laurence Fishburne as Perry White, Rebecca Buller as Jenny Olsen, and Russell Crowe as Jor-El.

“This Is the End” (R for crude humor, coarse sexuality, graphic nudity, drug use, violence and pervasive profanity) Ensemble comedy about celebrities forced to face their mortality when the apocalypse arrives while they’re partying at James Franco’s house. With Jonah Hill, Seth Rogen, Paul Rudd, Michael Cera, Rihanna, Emma Watson, Kevin Hart, Craig Robinson, Mindy Kaling, Channing Tatum and Jason Segel.

Jo Lawry, Judith Hill, and Lisa Fischer at the mic are part of the documentary “20 Feet From Stardom,” a look at the backup singers who performed behind some of the greatest musical act of our time.

INDEPENDENT & FOREIGN FILMS

“20 Feet from Stardom” (PG-13 for profanity and sexuality) Backup singers belatedly get their due in this overdue documentary paying tribute to some of the best in the business, including Merry Clayton, Lisa Fischer, Darlene Love, Claudia Lennear, Tata Vega and Lynn Mabry. With appearances by Bette Midler, Mick Jagger and Sheryl Crow.

“Aliyah” (Unrated) Dramatic thriller, set in Paris, about a 27 year-old drug dealer (Pio Marmai) who’s considering making a fresh start working in a relative’s restaurant in Tel Aviv in order to escape his burdensome, deadbeat brother (Cedric Kahn) and a love life complicated by an ex (Sarah Lepicard) and a new girlfriend (Adele Haenel). With Guillaume Gouix, David Geselson and Olivier Desautel.

(In French with subtitles)

“The Bling Ring” (R for profanity, sexual references, drug use and underage alcohol consumption) Sofia Coppola co-wrote and directed this true tale about a gang of computersavvy teenagers who embark on a crime spree burglarizing the homes of Hollywood stars by using the internet to monitor the celebrities’ whereabouts. Featuring Emma Watson, Katie Chang, Leslie Mann and Israel Broussard.

“Call Me Kuchu” (Unrated) Chilling, equal rights documentary chronicling the aborted efforts of murder victim David Kato (19642011), Uganda’s first openly gay citizen, to lobby against the proposed law making homo-

Jonah Hill (left), Rhianna and Christopher in “This is the End.” (Photo: Suzanne Hanover/Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc.)

sexuality a capital crime in his country.

“Far Out Isn’t Far Enough” (Unrated) Reverential biopic about the life and times of prolific children’s book author and illustrator Tomi Ungerer, a subversive artist committed to challenging the status quo. (In English and French with subtitles) “The Guillotines” (R for graphic violence) Qing Dynasty drama revolving around the daring exploits of a top secret squad of five, swordwielding assassins assembled by the emperor (Andrew Lau) to eliminate his political opponents. With Ethan Juan, Shawn Yue and Xiaoming Huang. (In Mandarin with subtitles)

“Hatchet III” (Unrated) High body-count horror sequel finds the revenge-minded heroine (Danielle Harris) attempting to break the curse of the seemingly-invincible sociopath (Kane Hodder) who has been terrorizing her haunted Louisiana swamp for decades. Cast includes Caroline Williams, Derek Mears and Zach Galligan.

“In the Fog” (Unrated) World War II saga set during the height of Nazi occupation on the Western Front where a man (Vladimir Svirskiy) wrongly accused of collaborating with the enemy must fight to save his name.

With Sergei Kolesov, Vladislav Abashin and Nikita Peremotovs. (In Russian with subtitles)

Tri-State Defender

HOROSCOPES

June 13–19, 2013

ARIES Everybody’s in a good mood this week, and you’ll want to join friends or family in sharing good food and feelings. You may be asked to grow, or move. Think seriously about it, because it could enhance your spiritual growth.

TAURUS At work, some matters have been on hold but now you will get the green light. Continue to work as diligently as you have been in the pass to ensure success. Have faith that your plans are on target.

GEMINI Quit rushing around. You frequently help others so why are you troubling over asking for the help you need this week? Ask and when you receive say Thank You! You are blessed with many supportive friends.

CANCER Keep all your ducks in a row this week.

No mixing work with fun or business with pleasure. Save your affection for the home front and stay focused on the work in front of you on the job. Things are working out perfectly.

LEO Why not take each perfect moment as it comes? You are struggling to find a solution that time can and will provide. Perform your tasks cheerfully this week and let the future take care of itself.

VIRGO Your anxiety about an important issue can now be seen as needless. You don’t have to worry! Have faith that things are working out perfectly and they will!

LIBRA You can be discreet and cut down on some of the envious comments you are attracting. Or you can continue to flaunt it since you’ve got it. Your choice this week!

Watch for a pleasant change in a romantic partner’s attitude.

SCORPIO Center yourself at every opportunity during this busy week and keep your quest for emotional and spiritual balance in the forefront. Make an effort to take your time; that way you’ll recognize opportunity from impulse-control problems immediately.

SAGITTARIUS Lucky! Your natural ability to shine is magnified this week. You’ll be garnering positive attention on a project you recently completed. Bask in the glow of public admiration!

CAPRICORN A celebration is in store and you are the guest of honor! You’ve achieved something wonderful and you need to take some time to enjoy it. Let yourself enjoy the applause then move onward and upward.

AQUARIUS Let someone else make a few decisions this week. Take a backseat and enjoy the respite from doing all the driving. You’ll enjoy the ride more this week if you just admire the view as it goes by.

PISCES Sometimes you imagine that everyone needs to hear your sensible opinions on all matters of significance. And other weeks you know that you are wise and generous enough to listen to others as they share their good ideas. This week is a week for listening. You’ll learn much.

Source: NNPA News Service