6 5 2013

VOL. 62, No. 22

May 30 - June 5, 2013

www.tsdmemphis.com

75 Cents

AfricanAmerican consumers: Still vital, still growing

A new report from the Nielsen company suggests that with increases in income and education, AfricanAmerican consumer buying power is projected to grow by $100 million in just two years. By 2015, AfricanAmerican buying power is estimated to be $1.1 billion.

According to the Nielsen study, “African-American Consumers: Still Vital, Still Growing,” the AfricanAmerican population’s growth outpaces the rest of the population by 30 percent. The demographic is also increasingly younger, more educated and has higher incomes than commonly believed. Between 2000 and 2009, the number of African Americans attending some college or earning degrees has grown to 45 percent of men and 54 percent of women.

“The Nielsen report is very encouraging because it shows the AfricanAmerican population is a tremendous financial asset to this country’s economic recovery,” said Calvin Harris Jr., president and CEO of the National Association of Black Accountants.

African Americans are also dramatically increasing their net wealth.

Households earning $75,000 or more grew by more than 60 percent, faster than the rest of the population.

African American’s average income nationwide is $47,290.

Increasing income and education have led to notable online trends. During July 2011 there were 23.9 million active African-American Internet users: 76 percent visited social networking sites and 54 percent visited a travel site.

Mass merchandisers gained 50 percent of the on-line users, the other 50 percent spent time on current events and global news sites. While on-line nearly 13 percent made airline purchases or reservations; just under 10 SEE CONSUMER ON PAGE 3

Memphis fans stand up and applaud the Grizzlies who were beaten in the Western Conference Finals (93-86) by the San Antonio Spurs. (Photo: Warren Roseborough)

Do we really believe or is it just bluff?

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Bernal E. Smith II

For the past month or so, Memphis, and perhaps the entire MidSouth has been on a fantastic ride called the Grizzlies 2013 Playoff run!

It was as thrilling as any carnival ride ever brought to the Delta or MidSouth fairs, wrought with ups,

downs, twists and turns. There were comebacks from two games down, overtime victories, overtime losses, dagger threes and powerfully throw down dunks, thrilling victories and disappointing defeats.

Through it all something great happened.

Born was something more exciting, more potentially impactful and certainly more important – this com-

munity came together, embraced its identity and stood proudly on the world stage exclaiming, “We Believe!” and “We Don’t Bluff” as we “Whooped” every “Trick” the opposition threw at us (at least until the San Antonio series, where the Spurs opened up a can of whoop trick on us.)

Unlike any other occurrence, Tiger basketball included, the Grizzlies’

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Malik Givens is a first grade student at White’s Chapel Elementary School. He is the son of Erika Brown and the student of Valerie Smith.

Malik is a very inquisitive and happy child. His younger twin siblings are in pre-K at White’s Chapel also, and he loves being a big brother.

In room 1-02, (The Smithsmiles Classroom) there is a banner that asks the question, “Have you used your brain today?” Malik thinks it is fun to use your brain, and when he does, it makes him feel good all day.

A very creative artist, Malik also enjoys reading and writing large numbers. One day in December 2012, he completed a 100 grid as part of his morning work, and then asked Ms.

Smith, if he could count to a billion.

The question was surprising to her, coming from a six-year-old first grader.

“Of course you can, but you will have to practice by using base ten counting,” she answered. Shortly thereafter, school recessed for the Christmas holiday.

January 2013 rolls around, and Malik was determined to complete his quest of counting to a billion upon his return to school. He practiced two to three times a week. He counted from (10 to 1,000), then from (1,000 to 100,000). After reaching that milestone, his classmates became a lot more interested in counting, just like their friend, Malik.

Not only was he a good counter, he loved helping others, so he volunteered to help his classmates – an instructor at age six.

Ms. Smith had laid the foundation for each and every one of her students SEE MALIK ON PAGE 2

• Black mayors reclaim their organization. See Opinion, page 4.

• Nutritional recipes for post-holiday reset. See Health, page 5.

• Poll: America losing its religion. See religion, page 7.

In “The Smithsmiles Classroom,” six-year-old Malik Givens proved that given support he and others can be counted on to excel.

(Courtesy support)

City crafts F.U.N. program to fill summer-hunger gap For many children who receive free and reduced meals at school, summer – which can be an exciting time – can also mean hunger.

To address this need and support wellness among city youth, the City of Memphis created the program F.U.N. (Fitness, Unity, Nutrition) as part of the USDA Summer Food Service Program. The initiative is locally supported by over $125,000 in funding from Cigna and Cigna Foundation.

“Hunger does not take a break, and just as learning does not end with the dismissal of school, neither does a child’s need for nutrition,” said Mayor A C Wharton, Jr. “With summer right around the corner, it’s time to think about keeping Memphis children eating healthy during these months.”

The program begins Monday (June 3) and ends Aug. 2. It will run Mon-

“With summer right around the corner, it’s time to think about keeping Memphis children eating healthy during these months.”

– Mayor A C Wharton Jr.

day through Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Available at 23 park sites throughout the city, the program promises to deliver F.U.N. for area youth. The idea is to not only provide a free healthy meal for youth 17 and under, but sites will provide programming structured around healthy lifestyles choices, community engagement, leadership development, character building, and violence reduction strategies.

Summer food service programs throughout the city are extremely underutilized.

“The reason noted for underutilization is that many organizations are un-

SEE GRIZZ ON PAGE 2

- INSIDE -

Limitless Malik First grader counts to 10,000,000,000

success created a euphoric atmosphere that engulfed all the groups in which we tend to divide ourselves, including those who decided to paint their faces (or whole heads) Beale Street Blue and yellow!

It wasn’t so much that we won, and of course winning was the objective,

aware of programs of this nature,” said Toni Holmon-Turner, Public Affairs Manager – Division of Parks and Neighborhoods.

“The city reached out to community organizations AC Wharton Jr. within its data base and provided them with information on how they could become a summer feeding site to help serve their community. And when we are referencing other food service programs we are referring to churches and organization that service as feeding sites.”

During the summer months, many youth are not involved in structured

summer camps or community/church affiliated organizations and are among those who receive free and reduced lunch during the school year.

“These youth are often likely to be food deprived,” said Holmon-Turner.

“Therefore, the Memphis Summer Food Service Program is an attempt to get meaningful nutritious food to these youth, while also providing fitness, wellness and positive life messages.”

Holmon-Turner said the City is fortunate to have Cigna’s contribution and partnership to bring the program to the children who need it most.

“Cigna’s mission is to improve the health, well-being and sense of security of the people and communities we serve,” said Mary Tate-Smith, Cigna Vice President in Memphis.

“As a partner in the Summer Food SEE HUNGER ON PAGE 3

Michelle Obama

• Can Michelle Obama bring change to Hollywood? See Entertainment, page 10.

MEMPHIS WEEKEND

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

H -89o - L-74o Iso . T-Sto rms

H- 8 5 o - L - 7 1 o Scat T-Storms

H- 8 3 o - L - 6 4 o A. M. Cl o uds

REGIONAL TEMPS LITTLE ROCK NASHVILLE JACKSON, MS

Friday H-90 L-74 H-86 L-70 H-89 L-71

Saturday H-84 L-70 H-84 L-70 H-88 L-71

Sunday H-85 L-64 H-80 L-64 H-86 L-69

Page 2

GRIZZ

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

but how WE won. “Grit and Grind,” was the phrase coined by our workhorse, Zach Randolph. The Grizz stepped on the court and earned every victory, fought, scratched, clawed and toughed their way to a historic, franchise-first Western Conference Finals. Along the way, they helped a city long in need of a positive self-image find and embrace one that truly fits.

If there was ever a city that needed a boost of confidence and self-pride, it was Memphis. A city with a reputation of beating itself up, Memphis has too often been guilty of self-inflicted wounds, holding on to an inferiority complex and tragedies of the past (Dr.

MALIK

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

to help each other.

“Whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone. Use every chance you have for doing good.

Whenever you possibly can, do good to those who need it.

Never tell your neighbor to wait until tomorrow if you can help them now. That’s what your parents mean when they tell you to be good today.”

That’s what she told them.

She knows that learning takes place during whole group, small group, pairs and learning centers, where children also learn more about patterns by working together.

In order for Malik to continue his journey to count to a billion, Ms. Smith had to find or create a larger grid, and she did. The larger grid came from second grade teacher, Ms. Sue Collier, who was also following Malik’s progress. This time Malik counted from 10,000 to 10,000,000.

With a big smile he said, “I really know the pattern, Ms. Smith.” In her 20 years of teaching, Ms. Smith had never heard of nor seen a first-grader

NEWS

Tri-State Defender

May 30 - June 5, 2013

Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination among others) compounded by the occasional outside reiteration of all the bad (i.e. Forbes and others) without a filter by which to see the good and potential greatness.

The Memphis Grizzlies, this unique group of players, along with their fearless leader Coach Lionel Hollins, embraced and represented in every way the “Memphis Style” – fighting through adversity, overcoming the haters, naysayers, self-doubt and bleak days to WIN. Their inspired play inspired a new spirit of pride and community.

Finally, for the entire month of May, all eyes were on Memphis for something significantly positive. Finally the Memphis spirit, the true identity of the city, was shared with

reading and writing such large numbers.

On a Monday in May, which just so happened to be Malik’s 7th birthday, he came to class with his usual big smile and announced that his mother would be bringing cupcakes to everyone to help celebrate his birthday. After making the announcement, he asked Ms. Smith if he could count to a billion today.

“It’s your Birthday! Go for It!” That’s the reply he received.

Within minutes, Malik let his teacher and classmates know that he had reached 1,000,000,000. The entire class did a happy dance and shared lots of hugs and pats on the back. After all the excitement he worked for two more days and finally – he reached 10,000,000,000.

Malik asked his teacher, “What is the highest number in the world?”

Ms. Smith told him that numbers were infinite, which means that they are unlimited.

After a few moments, Malik replied, “WOW … What comes after the billions?”

Ms. Smith told him it was trillions.

Malik said, “I can do that,” and his teacher said, “WOW!”

the entire country and a large portion of the world. Finally we could see who WE are, reflected through a national and international lens, and feel good about it.

Inspired in us was a sense of “we are all in this together,” fighting common adversaries and clearly identifying our ultimate goal of success, or at least BELIEVING that together we could actually achieve it this time. Despite the odds and the challenges – small market, less talent, no superstar, new ownership, bad trades, not enough scoring, etc., etc., we cheered on as they fought on to make us proud.

Even as I write, there is a giant un-caged elephant in the room, waiting to be acknowledged and cared for. Now that the season has ended, the spotlight is off, the ESPN crews are

gone and the Grizzlies players have gone fishing, can and will we take that same energy and apply it to the hard work before us? Or will everyone retreat to their not-so-neutral corners and back to the “us” versus “them,” city vs. county, black vs. white, rich vs. poor battles that have hamstrung us for so long.

The greater challenge is how do we take that same gritgrind spirit of positive selfidentity, of togetherness, of common goal and of common opponent and fight through our local challenges to truly become a world-class city/county/community. What must be emulated is that shared sense of responsibility for each other’s success and well being coupled with a dogged sense of individual personal responsibility to the team. It can be rea-

sonably asserted that those two primary factors led to success on the court and endeared a “superstar-less” team with many around the country. It is without argument that these two factors are key to the success of the Greater Memphis community overcoming the challenges we now face.

We waived fiercely and held on dearly to the yellow towels bearing the slogans we grew to embrace, not just as fans of a sports team, but because they truly represented who we are as a community at the core. We took a street anthem and transposed its meaning into a rallying cry, “Whoop That Trick” because we knew deep down there were some tricks and challenges of the past that we had to get past to succeed.

So I ask, do we believe that we can create a world-class ed-

ucation system for ALL CHILDREN, and are we committed to doing so, or are we just bluffing?

Do we believe that we can reduce poverty and crime while increasing opportunity, economic prosperity and safety for all citizens, or are we just bluffing?

Do we believe we can heal from the pain of the past and create a future based in trust, equal opportunity and commonality, or are we just bluffing?

Can we take that same energy, the same passion and apply it to our struggles and challenges and lift our community to its highest potential?

We say we believe, we declare that we don’t bluff. Well, let’s show the world that we truly mean it. The ball is in our court!

Grand Slam event to aid fitness camp

Malik Givens (Courtesy support)

Drills-N-Skills will host its inaugural Grand Slam Fundraiser supporting the Play For Success Summer Fitness Camp on Friday (May 31) from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Kroc Center located at 800 E. Parkway South.

The camp offers a low cost option to children who are categorized as economically disadvantage. The cost to campers is $35 for the week of activities. Proceeds from the fundraiser will offset the cost remaining for camp participation.

With childhood obesity at record levels, the summer camp focuses on educating youth and emphasizing the importance of developing a healthy lifestyle at an early age.

Camp founder Tavis Rutherford, a long-time athlete, coach and educator, said, “What I understand, and witness firsthand at times, is how easy it is to develop un-

healthy habits. Better choices lead to healthier outcomes and healthier lives.”

Children must stay active, Rutherford said.

Our camp will help them maintain good habits or in course correct bad ones, whichever the case may be. If we can impact even a few of those who attend the camp, we will feel we’ve succeeded.”

The Grand Slam Fundraiser is hosted by Hallelujah FM’s Michael Adrian Davis and will honor native Memphian and basketball legend, Andre Turner. Former Tigers Vincent Askew and Elliot Perry will also be on hand. Tickets are $35. A $100 donation will send a child to camp (includes admission to the event). To purchase tickets, visit: http://drillsnskillsgrandslam.eventbrite.com.

(For more information, visit www.drillsnskills.org.)

Tri-State Defender

HUNGER

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

Service Program, our goal is to help provide good nutrition, promote healthy habits that can last a lifetime and to help Memphis children reach their full potential.”

Tate-Smith said wellness is a key focus area of Cigna’s corporate responsibility platform, Cigna Connects, through which Cigna brings together “resources, experts and stakeholders to create lasting improvements in health.”

Other partners include the U. S. Department of Agriculture, Building Futures, and Urban Youth Initiative.

(For more information, visit www.cityofmemphis.org or call 211.)

Participating Parks NORTH

Treadwell N. Highland at Guernsey New Chicago Breedlove at St. Charles

CONSUMER

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

percent made hotel reservations.

The Nielsen Company study, commissioned by the National Newspaper Publishers Association, sheds light on the economic potential of African Americans and the important trends in the community. The report’s findings will be presented at the June conference of the National Association of Black Accountants conference in Nashville.

NEWS

May 30 - June 5, 2013

Georgian Hills 3930 Lewier St.

Lincoln 1363 E. Person

Alberson Whitney at Baskin

Gardenview Hartz Dr. at Raines Rd.

Jackson Pikes Peak Avenue Denver Tulsa at Bigelow Gooch 1974 Hunter

Raleigh Bartlett Meadows 5195 Twin Wood

CENTRAL

Peabody 712 Tanglewood Binghampton 2606 Everett

SOUTH

Belz Shelby at E. Fernwood

Dalstrom Shelby Dr./Weaver Rd.

The Nielsen study showed numerous shopping trends, mostly for household, health and beauty, travel, smart phones and child-related items.

The study also found that African-Americans have an average of four television sets per household and prefer premium cable channels. Fortyfour percent of all new mobile phones purchased by African Americans are smartphones.

Sixty-eight percent used their smartphones for shopping information.

There are 43 million African Americans in the United

Please join the TSD Fan Page on Facebook

Riverview Park 1891 Kansas St.

Oakhaven 3875 Bishops Bridge Gaston 1048 South Third St.

Lewis Davis Pendleton at Deadrick Obrien Prescott at Steve

Westwood 810 Western Park

Jesse Turner S. Parkway E. at Bellevue

EAST

Godwin 4410 Mallory Ave.

Winridge Ridgeway/Village Grove

States, which translates to 13.7 percent of the total population, the second largest racial minority in the country. The median age is 32 and 47 percent are under 35 years of age.

The National Newspaper Publishers Association and National Association of Black Accountants asserts that even with this demonstrated buying power many mainstream advertisers are not inclusive, do not include African Americans in media and marketing plans and have underestimated the market size.

Page 3

Page 4

OPINION

Tri-State Defender

May 30 - June 5, 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

Ultimate diversity challenge: Keeping good talent from going to waste Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Linda S. Wallace

SPECIAL REPORT

Black mayors reclaim their organization Linda S. Wallace

NNPA News Service

by George E. Curry

WASHINGTON – With some embarrassing internal issues addressed and its sights set firmly on expanding its global impact, the National Conference of Black Mayors (NCBM) kicks off its 39th annual convention in Atlanta this Thursday.

The theme of this year’s conference is “Restore, Rebuild, Renew.”

And perhaps no one can appreciate the need for those three Rs more than Vanessa R. Williams, the association’s executive director and CEO. Williams, who supervises NCBM’s day-to-day operations, received a telephone call three years ago that caught her by surprise. On the other end of the telephone was an FBI agent. And more surprising than his call was what he was calling about.

“The FBI agent was very pleasant,” Williams recounted in an interview. “He identified himself as being with the FBI and asked if the organization had any accounts in the state of Louisiana. I told him ‘No,’ He said, ‘Are you certain of that?’ I said, ‘I am absolutely positive of that.’ As the CEO of the organization, there’s no way the board would allow that to happen. We secured all accounts out of the national office (in Atlanta).

“He re-stated who he was and said there was an ongoing investigation against Mayor Grace and that this was an investigation that had gone on for over two or three years.”

Grace was mayor of St. Gabriel, La., a town of 6,777 people about 12 miles south of Baton Rouge. He was also president of the National Conference of Black Mayors. He was such a beloved and respected member of the organization that instead of being called Mayor Grace, he was known as Daddy Grace. But the FBI discovered that Daddy Grace had become a total disgrace – to his city, to the NCBM and to himself.

The FBI discovered that unknown to his fellow mayors, Grace had secretly registered the organization as a Louisiana non-profit corporation in 2005 and renewed the application on Nov. 25, 2009, listing himself as the sole officer. He also opened an unauthorized bank account in the organization’s name.

According to those familiar with the investigation, Grace would contact sponsors, tell them that Williams was about to lose her job in the national office and they should send money directly to him in Louisiana.

Because Grace was so trusted and held three key positions – president, treasurer and chairman of the finance committee – he was able to dupe NCBM for a decade.

Grace was also siphoning off money from his city. He and four other small town mayors in Louisiana were ensnarled in an FBI sting operation.

Grace, 69, was sentenced last year to 22 years in prison, fined $50,000 and forfeited $22, 000 after being convicted of violating the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations ACT (RICO), bribery, obstruction of justice, mail fraud, wire fraud, making false statements, and use of an interstate facility in the aid of racketeering.

In addition to illegally diverting money from NCBM, he was found guilty of extorting businessmen seeking to do business with the city and required kickbacks from operators setting up temporary housing in his city for victims of Hurricane Katrina.

The most remarkable thing about the organization is how a key group of leaders, placing their personal reputation on the line, rallied to stabilize and then revive the National Conference of Black Mayors.

Leading the charge was Mayor Robert Bowser of East Orange, N.J., its former – and soon to be future –

Vanessa R. Williams

Mayor Robert Bowser

president.

“Mayor Bowser was the president before, he got the organization in the black and then had to come back and rescue it again,” Williams said.

“When everything happened Mayor Kevin with Mayor Johnson Grace, we needed someone who knew the organization.”

Also in the forefront to reclaim the NCBM was Kevin Johnson, mayor of Sacramento, Calif. and first vice president. Johnson, who is expected to be elected president of the group in Atlanta, told Williams, “I am here and I am going to be here for you.”

And he was.

Surprisingly, about a half dozen long-time corporate sponsors – including Coca Cola, John Deere, Comcast, AT&T and United Water – did not abandon the black mayors in their time of need. Some reduced their funding, waiting to see how the organization would rebound, but at least one increased its sponsorship dollars.

In a statement issued last week, the mayors said: “The Board of Directors of the NCBM realizes that these unfortunate events have not only unfairly harmed the organization, they have also created financial hardships for some of our valued friends and vendors. Like many Fortune 500 companies have done, we could have sought the protection of U.S. bankruptcy laws, thus drastically limiting our financial obligations. However, that is not the path we have chosen to take. All vendors who have done properly authorized work with or for us will be paid in full. We deeply apologize for the inconvenience and thank you for your forbearance thus far.

“We are on target to repay at least 80 percent of all outstanding debts within the next 30 days and the remainder by the end of this year. Because the diverted money went to Mayor Grace and not to the NCBM, our legal counsel is working closely with the IRS to determine the extent of our financial liability under the U.S. tax code. Once that issue has been resolved, we anticipate entering an agreement with the IRS to make sure that every cent owed by NCBM is paid.”

After failing to hold a national convention for three years, the black mayors resumed having national conventions last year. In those struggling three years, the group expanded its international presence, which may hold the key to its future success. Williams has seen the organization grow from 682 black mayors in the U.S. to more than 26,0000 worldwide. At least 300 mayors are expected to attend the convention from abroad, most of them from Nigeria, Senegal, Uganda, Columbia and throughout the Caribbean.

For the first time in months, Williams, who agreed to work pro bono during the toughest financial stretch, is upbeat and smiling.

“You can’t prove the folks who left right,” she said. “We’re going to fight through this and say, ‘With God’s help, this, too, shall pass.’”

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Tim Doody lights a candle at a shrine for Mark Carson on May 20, 2013, in New York City. (Photo: Andrew Burton/Getty Images)

Gay hate crimes: Are African Americans less sympathetic?

The Root

by Keli Goff When James Byrd, a black man, was dragged to his death in Texas in 1998 by a group of men later identified as having white-supremacist tendencies, African Americans were outraged. Most Americans were.

That same year, another horrifying hate crime captured the attention of the nation, when gay student Matthew Shepard was murdered by a group of men in Wyoming. The circumstances of Byrd’s and Shepard’s tragic deaths perfectly capture the shared challenges that African Americans and gay Americans face in a world in which power is still predominantly held by straight, white males.

Their deaths also perfectly illustrate why the historical tension that has existed between the two communities makes so little sense when a bottomline reality exists for both: You can be killed for being the wrong color or the wrong sexual orientation.

Yet recent hate crimes in New York City, like the murder of Mark Carson, who was black and openly gay, raise an uncomfortable question: Despite inroads made in finding common ground between the two communities, are communities of color less sympathetic to hate crimes predicated on sexual orientation?

Since his murder, there have been other anti-gay assaults in New York City. Although protest marches initiated within communities of color tend to immediately follow the deaths of men of color believed to have been victimized because of their race, such as the recent Kimani Gray protests, the outrage about Carson’s death has been largely concentrated in the gay community.

The mysterious death of openly gay Clarksdale, Miss., mayoral candidate Marco McMillian seemed to touch upon this issue. As news coverage hailed McMillian’s pioneering run as one of Mississippi’s first openly gay candidates, I couldn’t help wondering if there would have been more outrage and coverage had he simply been one

of the state’s first viable black candidates.

To be clear, I don’t believe that everyone has a responsibility to attend every single protest march there is or to write his or her member of ConKeli gress about every Goff single issue. But I will say that every time people are killed for being who they are, it hurts all of us.

As a testament to the fact that hate crimes, regardless of how they are defined, affect all minorities and therefore should matter to Mark all Americans, in Carson 2009 President Obama signed the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr., Hate Crimes Prevention Act into law. The fact that both men’s names are featured in the bill’s title highlights their shared struggle and tragedy, despite their differences in race, class, sexual orientation and geography.

But ultimately the reason people of color should care about hate crimes perpetrated against other groups, including gays and lesbians, can best be summarized by Martin Niemöller’s famous saying, inspired by the Holocaust: “First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out – because I was not a Socialist.

“Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out – because I was not a Trade Unionist.

“Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out – because I was not a Jew. “Then they came for me – and there was no one left to speak for me.”

(Keli Goff is The Root’s special correspondent. Follow her on Twitter.)

IN THE MAIL Where’s the plan to curb violence?

A 15-year-old black boy is dead due to gang violence in Memphis. It is a sad commentary on our leaders and black elected officials that we take this lightly as an everyday occurrence. Recently, I saw a letter written by a 13-year-old black boy stating his fear of walking outside in his own neighborhood. The gang presence is so prevailing that he lives in constant fear. Is this America or is it Iraq or Afghanistan?

I heard a caller on a radio show recently who stated that we have numbers of churches and many Family Life Centers. What are they used for?

We need supervised, safe recreation

for our children. Why not open all of these Family Life Centers, ask our Mayor to assign a policeman there, conduct make-up classes in the classrooms and help give some direction to our young black males? The answer will only be found when we stop rushing to the suburbs and avoiding real problems. It is also my hope that our leaders, ministers and black churches will make a plan to curb this violence in our communities.

Ossie Davis, recently deceased black writer and actor, stated at the first Black Congressional Caucus that we needed a plan, then pass that plan on to each succeeding generation. If not now, then when?

Robert J. Smith, M.D. Memphis

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

Many diversity campaigns took a wrong turn because they focused heavily on cultural deficits – what a particular group lacks or needs – rather than cultural strengths – the unique abilities, talents and strengths of

these groups.

Instead of breaking down barriers, as we had hoped, often we ended up broadcasting subtle messages that these groups are inferior and not at all like the rest of us.

Today, a new strategy is taking root. Communities are imagining how a diverse city might function, and the role that everyone – rich and poor, black, Hispanic, Asian and white, Muslim and Christian, liberal and conservative – plays in making the economy competitive. Our ultimate diversity challenge is to figure out how to more fully develop talent in America so each person can contribute fully.

Talent that is not nurtured withers like a forgotten garden.

Over the years, loyal readers of The Cultural Coach have helped me learn how to communicate with them. They carefully considered the tone and weight of my words, my ability to reason, and my capacity to step inside of their world.

Today, I would like to share a few of the secrets to facilitating meaningful dialogs in your church, neighborhood or school. Try one of these approaches this week to see if you can open a mind or an opportunity.

Create spaces where honest dialogs can occur: Individuals are more likely to learn if the setting allows them to speak freely. Clearly define the expectations for participants. No yelling. No name-calling.

No loud voices. Remove people who violate the rules because they will shut down the dialog.

Not for me, but rather for us: With apologies to President John F. Kennedy, “Ask not what others can do for your group, but rather what your group can do for others.”

Don’t argue that “our group is disadvantaged” and in need of extra help or special treatment. Argue instead that a group has untapped potential and all of America stands to benefit when that talent is unleashed. Emphasize how the community’s interests are served.

Lead learning: A teacher stands up and says: “Here’s the information I decided you need to know.” A co-learner stands up and says: “Let’s examine our experiences to determine what we know, and what gaps we have in our diversity library.” Whenever possible, represent yourself as a co-learner.

Know your cultural shades: It is OK for us to wear cultural shades as long as we are aware of them and we know how to take them off. Cultural shades are the lenses we use to view an issue or a problem. A conservative may look at a school where children are failing and ask, “Where are the parents? Where are the community leaders?” (The core belief: Kids are failing because parents/community leaders are not involved.) A liberal may look at the same school and ask, “Where are the books? (The core belief: Kids are failing because resources are inequitable.) Both filters are partially right. We need people with different lenses sitting at the table.

Step outside of your comfort zone: We won’t open new channels of communications if we only talk to individuals who agree with us.

Actively seek out people with opposing views for they are the ones who can add new volumes to your diversity library. Sharpen your ability to listen and to explain how and why people disagree.

Manage your biases first. Before you approach others about managing their biases or prejudices, learn how to manage your own. Learners are more likely to examine their biases honestly when they observe others doing the same. Stop talking, and lead by example.

(Linda S. Wallace – The Cultural Coach – can be reached theculturalcoach@aol.com.)

where civil rights compliance at the state level breaks down

DISTRIBUTION: Tri-State Defender is available at newsstands, 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.

Copyright 2013 by Tri-State Defender Publishing, Inc. Permission to Publisher, Tri-State Defender, 203 Beale Street, Suite 200, Memphis, TN. 38103. Back copies can be obtained by calling the Tri-State Defender at (901) 523-1818, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays.

HEALTH

Tri-State Defender

Page 5

May 30 - June 5, 2013

CHEF TIMOTHY

Nutritional recipes for post-holiday reset

by Chef Timothy Moore

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

On Memorial Day, the nation honored its war dead and those who are making the ultimate sacrifice to keep this country safe and secure. For some people, it was a celebration; for others, a remembrance.

Now that the celebration is over and you’re no longer feasting on that slab of pork ribs and other meats, I’d be remiss if I didn’t try to refocus your attention on maintaining a healthy diet. Below are some basic, delicious and healthy recipes that you can make without difficulty. They’re simple and fun. So let’s move forward to better nutritional choices.

Oatmeal Bites with Bananas

Makes 8 muffins

These muffin-like bites use only puréed bananas as a sweetener, no added oil and use whole-grain oats and oat flour. They can be prepped in just minutes!

1 cup rolled oats 1 cup of oat flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon 1/8–1/4 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg 1 cup of puréed, overripe bananas (2 large bananas)

1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 350 F. In a mixing b o w l , combine the oats, oat flour, baking powder, Dr. Timothy cinnamon Moore and nutmeg. Stir through until well combined.

Add the banana and vanilla to the dry mixture and stir through until combined. Using a cookie scoop, place mounds of the batter (about 2 to 2 1/2 tablespoons) on to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 14 to 15 minutes until set to the touch and a touch golden. Remove and let cool on pan for just a minute.

Then transfer the mix onto a cooling rack.

Serves 3 This recipe is based on an Ethiopian soup with a rich, deep curry flavor and complex textures. It’s easy to make in a big batch for the week ahead.

It’s so good, but don’t expect it to last more than a couple of days.

1/2 yellow onion, diced 1 small carrot, diced

Tomato Lentil Soup

1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger 3 cloves of garlic, minced 1 tablespoon of curry powder 1 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth (low sodium) 1/4 cup of tomato paste 1/4 cup of brown or green lentils (soaked overnight) 1 Yukon Gold potato, diced 1/4 cup of cooked brown rice

Over medium-high heat, sauté the onion until it is brown. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the carrot, ginger, garlic, curry powder and fenugreek, sautéing them for about 1 minute with water.

Add the veggie broth and tomato paste, stirring until the tomato paste is thoroughly combined with the broth.

Bring the soup to a simmer.

Add the lentils and stir. Once the soup comes back to a simmer, cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Cook the soup for 30-40 minutes until lentils are tender. Add the potato and brown rice; cook the soup, cover, for 5-10 more minutes.

Keep It Simple: Bring the veggie broth and tomato paste to a simmer, making sure the tomato paste is thoroughly combined with the broth. Add the onion, carrot, garlic, ginger, curry, fenugreek, and lentils, and proceed with the above recipe as if you had just

added the lentils.

Chef note: The key to this soup is timing when you add the ingredients. Lentils require time to cook, while diced potatoes and the brown rice need only a few minutes.

These are best added to a soup during the last few minutes of cooking.

chickpeas 1 tablespoon of tahini 2 TBS of water (use your judgment on water)

Hummus

Asparagus and English peas with the lightness of lemons and parsley are a beautiful springtime dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

6–8 stalks of asparagus 2 cloves of garlic, minced Juice of 1 fresh lemon, about 2 tablespoons 6 ounces of Zucchini Noodles 2 tablespoons of minced parsley

Serves 4–6

Hummus is a flavorful anytime bean dip made from chickpeas, lemon juice and garlic. Usually served as a dip paired with pita bread or other fresh vegetables. It can also be used as a flavor powerhouse spread for sandwiches, wraps and burgers.

1 clove garlic, smashed Juice of 1 lemon, fresh 2 cups of cooked, rinsed

Blend all ingredients in blender until smooth. Enjoy!

Zucchini with Grilled Asparagus Serves 2

1 cup of sweet peas

Toss the asparagus in the garlic, lemon juice. Grill the asparagus until it starts to develop a few blackened spots.

This can be done in the oven.

The asparagus should still have some crispness to it. Cut the asparagus into 2- inchlong pieces. Mix zucchini with the asparagus, parsley and English peas.

This dish will enlighten your day. Enjoy!

(Dr. Timothy Moore is an author, professional speaker, international wellness coach and personal plant-based chef. Email him at cheftimothy @cheftimothymoore.com, visit him at www.cheftimothy moore.com or follow him at w w w. t w i t t e r. c o m / cheftimmoore.)

BUSINESS

Page 6

Tri-State Defender

May 30 - June 5, 2013

ON OUR WAY TO WEALTH

DIVORCE – Property distribution and alimony Remember the popular song lyrics of Johnnie Taylor – “Cheaper to Keep Her?” Well, there just may be some truth to those words.

The after effects of a divorce can wreak havoc on a business. Taking into consideration loss of property and the payment of alimony, the consequences can be long lasting and difficult to overcome.

Property distribution

Tennessee is an equitable distribution state that divides the marital property equitably without regard to fault. Marital property is defined as all property acquired during the marriage, regardless of whose name is on the title. Property acquired prior to the marriage or after a legal separation, inheritances and gifts, and pain and suffering awards are considered separate property.

According to the Tennessee Code, the following factors are considered by the court when determining an equitable distribution of the marital property: • The length of the marriage; • The age, physical and mental health, employability, and financial needs of each

MONEY MATTERS

Fraud never sleeps

T h e Federal T r a d e Commission received over 1.8 million consumer c o m plaints in 2 0 1 1 .

Charles More than Sims Jr., CFP half of these were for various types of fraud. Despite improved consumer education and tighter controls, criminals continue to come up with new ways to separate unwitting victims from their hard-earned money.

A list of potential scams would fill many pages, but here are three relatively new ones to watch out for.

Cut your credit-card rate!

An unsolicited caller offers to help you reduce your creditcard interest rate for a fee, and you must fill out a financial profile with account numbers, Social Security numbers, and other personal information.

The scammer may arrange a conference call with your credit-card company and ask for a fee reduction, which is usually refused and could have been requested yourself.

You are out the fee and at risk for the misuse of your personal information.

You’ve won a free gift! You receive a call from a local store claiming that you have won a gift or a gift card but must go to the store to pick it up. The call could really be from a thief who wants to get you out of your home in order to break in while you’re gone.

If you receive this type of offer, call the store immediately and contact your local police if the offer appears to be a ruse.

Enter this online auction!

A pop-up window appears while you are online inviting you to bid on a popular item, typically electronics, but you have to provide your cell phone number to enter. When you submit your entry, you receive a text message to your phone that you have subscribed to a paid “service,” which you may not notice on your bill. This trick is called “cramming.” Protect your cell phone number just as you protect other account numbers.

Remember, fraud never sleeps, so consumers have to stay wide awake!

(For more information, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s website, www.ftc.gov.)

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

SimsFinancialGroup.com.)

spouse; • The contribution of one spouse to the education or increased earning power of the other spouse; Carlee • The McCullough r e l a t i v e ability of each spouse for future employment and asset acquirement; • Contributions as a homemaker, wage earner, or parent; • The value of the separate property of each spouse; • The economic circumstances of each spouse at the time of the divorce; • The tax consequences of the proposed property settlement; • The social security benefits available to each spouse; and • Any other factors relevant to an equitable distribution settlement.

The court may award the family home and effects, or the right to live there for a reasonable period of time, to either party, but shall give spe-

cial consideration to the spouse having physical custody of a child or children of the marriage.

Alimony

When most people think of alimony or spousal support, they think of a man paying a woman. However, with the rise of stay-at-home fathers and the growing achievements of women in their respective professions, more women are beginning to pay men alimony or spousal support.

In Tennessee, the court may award support when it finds that one party is economically disadvantaged relative to the other spouse. The court may award rehabilitative alimony, periodic alimony, transitional alimony, or lump sum alimony, or a combination of these, taking the following factors into consideration: • The relative earning capacity, obligations, needs, and financial resources of each party; • The relative earning capability of each party, and the necessity of a party to secure further education and training to improve such party’s earnings capacity to a reasonable level; • The duration of the mar-

riage; • The age, mental, and physical condition of each party, including, but not limited to, physical disability or incapacity due to a chronic debilitating disease; • Whether the custodial parent is unable to work outside the home due to the care of a minor child; • The separate assets of each party; • The property apportioned to the party; • The standard of living established during the marriage; • The contributions as a homemaker and to the education, training or increased earning power of the other party; • The relative fault of the parties; • Any other factors, including the tax consequences to each party, as are necessary to consider the equities between the parties.

Types of Alimony

Rehabilitative Alimony is designed to help the lesser earning spouse revive or increase his or her earning potential in an effort to maintain the lifestyle of living he or she has grown accustomed to living. This can be achieved

through support payments for some period of time. This form of alimony can be increased, decreased, extended, or terminated by the court depending on the situation. But rehabilitative alimony will also terminate at the death of either party, unless otherwise ordered by the court.

Alimony in Futuro can be awarded in addition to rehabilitative alimony and paid in a different amount and length of time. This type can also be modified by a court if the situation requires and will terminate “automatically and unconditionally” at the death or remarriage of the person receiving payments. The payments will also terminate at the death of the payer unless the court orders differently.

Transitional Alimony can be awarded in addition to rehabilitative alimony and paid in a different amount and length of time. If the court finds that rehabilitative alimony is not enough to achieve a comparable lifestyle, then the court may attempt to equalize the income of the former spouses by ordering transitional alimony for whatever period of time the court deems appropriate. This type can be modified by the court if the situation requires and will ter-

minate “automatically and unconditionally” at the death or remarriage of the person receiving payments. The payments will also terminate at the death of the payer, unless the court orders differently.

Lump Sum Alimony or Alimony in Solido, according to the Tennessee Code is a form of long term support, the total amount of which is calculable on the date the final decree is entered, but which is not designated as transitional alimony. It may be paid in installments; provided, that the payments are ordered over a definite period of time and the sum of the alimony to be paid is ascertainable when awarded. The purpose of this form of alimony is to provide financial support to a spouse. In addition, alimony in solido may include attorney fees, where appropriate. The payments don’t terminate on the death or remarriage of either party. Theoretically, one deceased person’s estate could owe alimony to another deceased person.

So decide for yourself is it “Cheaper to Keep Her”?

(Contact Carlee McCullough, Esq., at 5308 Cottonwood Road, Suite 1A, Memphis, TN 38118, or email her at jstce4all@aol.com.)

Business bootcamp has single moms in sight Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Yolanda Gates

This summer, Successful Single Moms Memphis, Inc. plans to take another step in its mission of “advocating for fair wages, opportunities to return to school, homeownership and entrepreneurship” for single moms.

Single Moms University (SMU) – in concert with its collaborative partners – will provide an avenue for their single moms to participate in classes designed to foster continuing education opportunities.

“We are excited to announce our Mogul Mom™ Business Bootcamp as the first set of classes under our Single Moms University,” said Nicole Gates, director of Successful Single Moms Memphis, Inc. “(This) is a collaboration of the Home Based Business Chamber of Commerce (HBBCC), National College of Business and Successful Single Moms Memphis. Completion of the training sets the women up to become Mogul Mom™ Certified business enterprises.”

The Mogul Mom™ Business Bootcamp will consist of six, two-hour classes. HBCC CEO Beverly Anderson will teach topics on Starting a Micro-Business, Recordkeeping, Bookkeeping & Taxes, Tools of Advertising, Art of Networking, Financing Your Business and Basic Business

Plan Writing.

“My grandfat h e r taught us growing up, ‘If you can’t find a job, m a k e one,’” Nicole said AnGates derson. “his statement is the basis of my commitment to not only owning and operating my own homebased business and teaching my children to do the same, but empowering others to do so.”

Even those who have jobs need to have some type of business they operate, even if part-time, Anderson said.

“For single mothers, home-based business ownership may just be the opportunity they need. Not only does owning a home-based business provide income, it also offers flexibility, pride, and an example to their children.”

Ashley Grayson, director of programs for Successful Single Moms Memphis, said, “With the current unemployment rates and single mothers facing poverty daily, the Mogul Mom™ Business Bootcamp offers a ray of hope for single moms, helps to build confidence that they can shape their future and it surely has the potential to strengthen the Memphis

economy.”

Upon completion of the Mogul Mom™ Business Bootcamp, participants will have the opportunity to become a Mogul Mom™ Certified Business Enterprise, with their business promoted as a minority- or women-owned business and as a single mom owned business.

Doris Lee, owner of All Occasion Florist, has already signed up.

“Just imagine the impact this could have in the reduction of social services required by the single moms who own their own business

“For single mothers, home-based business ownership may just be the opportunity they need. Not only does owning a home-based business provide income, it also offers flexibility, pride, and an example to their children.”

Beverly Anderson

and are equipped with the tools to effectively run their own business and the potential to increase their household income and in turn enhance their family life,” said Lee. “All we want is an opportunity. I’m excited about this opportunity and didn’t hesitate to get registered.”

(Registration for the Mogul Mom™ Business Bootcamp will remain open until June 1 for single moms wanting to start a business or improve their current business. For more information, contact Successful Single Moms Memphis, Inc. at 901-2136861.)

RELIGION

Tri-State Defender

Page 7

May 30 - June 5, 2013

RELIGION BRIEFS

Poll: America losing its religion

Obesity Summit to cap Healthy Church Challenge

The Healthy Church Challenge 100-day weight loss competition will culminate in an Obesity Summit on Saturday (June 1) at Breath of Life Christian Center, 3795 Frayser Raleigh Rd., in the Raleigh community.

Presented by BlueCross® BlueShield® of Tennessee, the summit free and open to the public from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. It is designed to educate participants, disseminate health information and encourage participants to eat a well-balanced diet, exercise and live a healthy lifestyle both spiritually and physically.

Donna Richardson, an internationally renowned fitness expert, will be the keynote speaker. Other speakers and workshop presenters include the Rev. Kenneth S. Robinson, M.D., pastor of St. Andrew AME Church and the public health policy advisor for Shelby County Mayor Mark Luttrell; certified trainer Yusuf Boyd of BIOMechaniks of Germantown; and Chef Timothy Moore, a personal plant-based chef, wellness coach and health columnist for The New Tri-State Defender.

The winners of the 100-day weight loss challenge will be announced during the Summit. There will be presentations as well by the clinical staff at The Regional Medical Center at Memphis, various healthcare screenings, vendors, door prizes and giveaways. Bring your sneakers and get moving with exercise workshops.

Along with BlueCross, the Challenge is sponsored by The Regional Medical Center at Memphis, Hallelujah 95.7 FM, The New Tri-State Defender, Biomechaniks, News Channel 3 and the City of Memphis. For more information, call 901-278-0881 or visit Facebook.com/The Healthy Church Challenge.

Castalia Baptist to host Vacation Bible School

Castalia Baptist Church at 1540 Castalia Road will host its Vacation Bible School June 3-7, with Curtis Bush as principal.

The school experience will include Bible study, informational speakers, arts and crafts, food, fellowship and fun. Sessions will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Here is the schedule for special presentations: Monday – Healthy Choices; Tuesday – College Bound/Darvis Williams; Wednesday – Memphis Police Department; Thursday – Financial Literacy for Youth; Friday – Family Night/Class Presentations.

The host pastor is the Rev. Randolph Meade Walker, Ph.D. For more information, call 901-2767295.

BRIEFLY: Gospel Star Canton Jones and special guests perform at The New Olivet Baptist Church on Thursday, May 30, beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets: $10, advance; $15, at the door; children under five, free; Visit www.itickets.com.

CNN

by Dan Merica Washington – More than three in four of Americans say religion is losing its influence in the United States, according to a new survey, the highest such percentage in more than 40 years.

A nearly identical percentage says that trend bodes ill for the country.

“It may be happening, but Americans don’t like it,” Frank Newport, Gallup’s editor in chief, said of religion’s waning influence. “It is clear that a lot of Americans don’t think this is a good state of affairs.”

According to the Gallup survey released Wednesday, 77 percent of Americans say religion is losing its influence. Since 1957, when the question was first asked, Americans’ perception of religion’s power has never been lower.

According to the poll, 75 percent of Americans said it the country would be better off if it was more religious.

The poll doesn’t reflect Americans’ personal religiosity, such as church attendance, but rather how large events and trends shape shared views, Newport explained.

For example, the sexual revolu-

tion, the Vietnam War and the rise of the counterculture fed the perception that religion was on the wane during the late 1960s, he said.

Views of a secularizing America peaked in 1969 and 1970, when 75 percent of Americans said faith was losing its clout in society. A similar view dominated from 1991-94 and from 2007 to the present.

Americans saw religion increasing its influence in 1957, in 1962 and at a few points during the Reagan presidency in 1980. This number also spiked to its highest point ever – 71 percent – after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

The pollster didn’t speculate on the contemporary factors that led to the current views on faith’s influence.

Still, the poll numbers are dramatically influenced by church attendance, according to Gallup. More than 90 percent of people who attend church weekly responded that a more religious America would be positive, compared with 58 percent of Americans who attended church “less often.”

The Gallup poll was conducted via telephone from May 2 to May 7. A total of 1,535 people were sampled for the poll, which has a margin of error of plus or minus 3 percentage points.

St. John Baptist Church fills vacancy with one of its own

How they’ve grown…

The young ones of Mt. Vernon Christian Academy demonstrated “How Much We Have Learned and Grown” as they celebrated with the pre-school graduation ceremony last Friday, May 24. Dr. James L. Netters and the Rev. Melvin D. Watkins Jr. are the executive directors. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

Survey says…

Congregants participated in a fun game of “Family Feud” at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church – Westwood, 620 Parkrose Ave., as they celebrated their 111th church anniversary last Sunday, May. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

PRAISE CONNECT

St. John Baptist Church, founded in 1868, will install the twelfth pastor to serve the congregation in its 144 years. The installation ceremony of The Rev. Henry L. Key will be at 3 p.m., Sunday, June 9 in the church sanctuary at 640 Vance Ave. Rev. Key, who initially joined the church in 2003, has served as associate pastor, a choir member and has rendered various other religious. In an election on May l8, members chose Key to serve as pastor The Rev. from a field of Henry L. Key 100-plus candidates.

Born in Piperton, Tenn., Rev. Key’s has a B.S Degree in Electrical Engineering from Tennessee State University; a Master of Community Psychology from Texas Southern University; and Theological Studies at Houston Bible Institute and Houston Graduate School of Theology.

He received his pastoral ordination in 1981 at the Sunny Side Missionary Baptist Church in Houston and served as former pastor of the church. He is active in the religious community in Memphis, serving as community volunteer for the elderly.

Rev. Key is married to Dr. Shirley Key, an associate professor (retiring) at the University of Memphis. He has a son, George Anthony Key of Houston, and a daughter, Lorrie Michelle Key of Orlando, Fla. Rev. Key said he was grateful for the members’ confidence in selecting him. Noting the church’s substantive history, he said, “I intend to use the gospel ministry I’ve used for the last 33 years in the administration of my responsibilities as pastor which is outlined in Isaiah 62:10 –“Go through, go through the gates; prepare ye the way of the people; cast up, cast up the highway; gather out the stones; lift up a standard for the people.”

-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”

ENTERTAINMENT Tri-State Defender, Thursday, May 30 - June 5, 2013, Page 8

WHAT’S HAPPENING MYRON?

My ‘Fast & ‘Furious’ weekend

Instead of firing up the grill as I routinely do each Memorial Day weekend, I decided to be a little different and take in a good movie instead. So, Memorial Day weekend was a good one for Myron as usuMyron al. However, it Mays was an even bigger weekend for anyone associated with “The Fast & the Furious movie franchise.

Talk about a record breaking weekend…this movie pretty much broke a lot of them. Looks like I wasn’t the only one who decided to hit the theater over the course of the weekend.

No other movie by Universal Pictures has made more money than the latest installment of the series, “Fast & Furious 6.” It easily came in at number one, beating out the opening of “The Hangover III,” which brought in about $51 million.

Domestically, “Fast & Furious 6” brought in about $120 million over the three-day weekend, however, it also opened in three international markets to an additional $175 million dollars bringing in almost $300 million in its opening weekend! According to Universal Pictures, “Fast & Furious 6” beat its predecessor in the series, “Fast Five,” which previously held the title of best opening for the studio with $83.6 million in domestic theaters.

The usual players were back, i.e.

Paul Walker, Tyrese and Ludacris.

Also, Dwayne Johnson makes his second appearance in the franchise.

However, one of the greatest things that could have happened to this franchise overall was the return of Vin Diesel. Not taking anything from the rest of the cast, but his character is pretty much what the foundation was built upon.

Not saying that Diesel was THE star of the show, but check the figures, the two lowest grossing installments were the ones in which he was missing. Kind of reminds me of Smokey from “Friday.” Those movies have never been the same without his character. Perhaps Chris Tucker will see what his return to “Friday” could mean. But I digress…

As predicted the film left the door open for the next film, which is inevitably gonna happen. And for those who haven’t seen it yet, I guess I won’t throw a spoiler out there. But make sure you stick around after the credits. That’s when they give you the clues to the next piece of the puzzle…as they always do.

So look forward to “Fast 7” or whatever creative title they decide to use next.

Paul McCartney performed at the FedExForum in front of a sold out crowd on Sunday night (May 26). (Photo: Warren Roseborough/TSD)

McCartney leaves guitar pick at Elvis’ grave site CNN

by Breeanna Hare Paul McCartney gives the best gifts.

When the former Beatle visited Graceland, the mansion once occupied by the late Elvis Presley, on Sunday, he reportedly left a personalized guitar pick at Presley’s grave.

The singer was in Memphis, Tenn., as part of his “Out There” tour – with his performance marking his first visit to the city in 20 years – and he seized the opportunity to see Presley’s old stomping grounds.

On Twitter, McCartney shared photos of himself holding a guitar, and another one leaving the pick at Presley’s grave.

“Paying respects,” the almost 71 year old tweeted, along with a photo.

According to Rolling Stone, McCartney, along with the Beatles, met Presley once in Los Angeles in 1965.

What’s Happening

This Friday night you might wanna check out South Main Trolley Night.

Chances are you’ve heard the name before but didn’t know what it was.

Trolley Night takes place along the Art District in South Main. Take a free ride on the trolley and visit all of the art galleries while partaking in great refreshment and appetizers, much of which is complimentary.

This is a great opportunity to see what is going on in your city. It’s also your chance to try something new! So what are you waiting for?

Also, the first weekend in June is always exciting in Memphis as the Annual Sisterhood Showcase takes place once again. If you are a female who just so happens to be African American and you’re in the market for products or you just want to get information to fit your lifestyle, then there’s only one place for you to be this weekend and that’s at the Cook Convention Center.

The entertainment lineup is phenomenal as always. Eric Benet, Chrisette Michelle and Calvin Richardson will be providing much of the day’s entertainment as it relates to R&B on Saturday. There’s a lineup of great gospel music entertainment as well. There will even be a little something for the soul as the legendary Williams Brothers will be performing along with J. Moss, among other artists.

It’s set to be another fantastic event this year. I’ll be on hand, front and center! So make sure you check back in with me next week as I give you the details on all of the performances. Until then, that’s what’s happening!

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

Paul McCartney dipped into his immense memory bag, playing for about three hours during a Sunday night (May 26) performance that marked his first visit to Memphis in 20 years.

Hattiloo to stage groundbreaking ceremony June 8

Hattiloo Theatre will conduct a groundbreaking ceremony for its new theatre on June 8 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The new Hattiloo Theatre is being built on the northwest corner of Monroe and Cooper and the building will be approximately 12,000 square feet.

“The addition of Hattiloo will provide more accessiblilty to black theatre and helps to diversify the theatre epicenter of Memphis,” said Ekundayo Bandele, Executive/Artistic Director.

“We are very excited about the new facility and being a part of this cultural renaissance in our great city,” said Bandele, who is the theatre’s founder.

The Theatre’s Mainstage will seat 150 to 175 and will be able to change formation from one play to the next. The Black Box theatre will seat 65. The lobby will seat up to 110 guests at round banquet tables.

The theatre’s backstage will have dressing rooms, showers and a green-room. There will also be of-

Hattiloo Theatreʼs current production “Sarafina” runs through June 9, Thursdays-Sundays. Box information available at 901525-0009 (Courtesy photo.)

fice space, a multi-use room, and rehearsal space.

As part of the groundbreaking cel-

ebration, there will be musical performances by Jamille ‘Jam’ Hunter, Stefani Bolton and Ficktive Kin.

ENTERTAINMENT

Tri-State Defender

Page 9

May 30 - June 5, 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 May 31, 2013

BIG BUDGET FILMS

“After Earth” (PG-13 for action violence and disturbing images) M. Night Shyamalan directs this post-apocalyptic, sci-fi saga about a military general (Will Smith) with a teenage son (Jaden Smith) who are the only survivors of a crash landing of an expedition to Earth a millennium after the cataclysmic event that forced humans to abandon the planet. With Sophie Okonedo, Isabelle Fuhrman and Zoe Kravitz.

“The Kings of Summer” (R for profanity and underage alcohol consumption) Comingof-age comedy about three teenagers (Nick Robinson, Gabriel Basso and Moises Arias) who decide to demonstrate their independence by spending the summer living off the land while building a home in woods. With Nick Offerman, Alison Brie and Megan Mullally.

“Now You See Me” (PG-13 for profanity, sexuality and violence) Cat-and-mouse thriller about a French Interpol agent (Melanie Laurent) who teams with the FBI to catch a quartet of Robin Hood-style magicians (Woody Harrelson, Isla Fisher, Jesse Eisenberg and Dave Franco) who steal from corrupt businessmen before showering their audiences with money during performances. A-list cast includes Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine, Mark Ruffalo and Common.

Jaden Smith (left) and Will Smith in "After Earth." (Photo: Columbia Pictures)

INDEPENDENT & FOREIGN FILMS

“The East” (PG-13 for violence, sexuality, partial nudity, mature themes and disturbing images) Espionage thriller about a private eye (Brit Marling) hired to infiltrate an anti-establishment organization suspected of sabotaging corporations who finds herself falling for the anarchist outfit’s very charismatic leader (Alexander Skarsgard). With Ellen Page, Patricia Clarkson, Toby Kebbell and Shiloh Fernandez.

“The History of Future Folk” (Unrated) Sci-fi comedy about a couple of aliens (Nils D’Aulaire and Jay Klaitz) sent to earth from a faraway planet who ignore their orders to wipe out humanity and instead form a band after falling in love with bluegrass music.

“Shadow Dancer” (R for profanity and violence) Turncoat drama, set in Belfast in the Nineties, revolving around a member of the Irish Republican Army (Andrea Riseborough) who becomes a snitch for the British in order to remain free to raise her young son after be-

Mark Ruffalo (left) and Morgan Freeman in “Now You See Me.” (Photo: Barry Wetcher/Summit Entertainment)

ing caught with a bomb in her possession.

With Clive Owen, Gillian Anderson, Aidan Gillen and Brid Brennan.

“Triumph of the Wall” (Unrated) Buddy documentary that took eight years to complete about a couple of Canadian pals’ two-month road trip.

HOROSCOPES

May 30 – June 5, 2013

ARIES You are often superb at exercising good judgment and rational decision-making. Yet sometimes you are rash. Flip to the observant side of your mentality this week. You will soon find yourself in a situation where there will be strife if you are not careful.

TAURUS Just to prove to yourself once again how lucky you are you should fly into the face of bad predictions. Gamble this week in business, relationships, love - something.

GEMINI Move through your social environments and festive occasions this week without stopping even for a little while to listen to rumors. And for goodness sake believe only good things about friends and your lover.

CANCER Keep focused. Your energies are likely to be spread out this week. Your attention is likely to be pulled in many directions. Let yourself be seduced by the things that interest you most.

Concentrate on your affairs. Others need you, but they can wait.

LEO Being stubborn won’t get the job done. Work with others so they can work for you. Your ideas are not always the best ideas, so don’t push them too hard this week. You might find yourself in an awkward position with no allies.

Give in to your emotional needs and don’t be afraid to let you guard down.

VIRGO This week will bring a tendency to dwell on a past betrayal. Your feelings of suspicion are well founded. However, do not personalize it.

Work against the harmful act but not against the person who committed it.

LIBRA Look forward to excellent financial news based on something you’re likely to do this week.

This might be an excellent week to window shop for a dream vacation or luxury purchase.

SCORPIO In the spiritual realm appearance is not important but in the physical realm looking good matters a great deal. Love has a foot in both realms. It is your challenge to balance the spiritual and physical aspects of love this week.

SAGITTARIUS Stand up and get ready. Be a public speaker.

Any subject you choose is ripe for your “rap.”

Spin the tale. Tell the story. People will be fascinated by the way you see things. Watch out for a jealous friend when attention is on you!

CAPRICORN Be as sharp as you can be this week. Make being alert a personal challenge. Watch for details that might otherwise escape your notice as you search for the best way to get things done at work. Be steadfast in your determination and don’t be pulled into conflict with coworkers.

AQUARIUS What do you do when you’re not as lucky as usual? Slow the game down. Risk less. Bet conservatively in all areas of your life. Restrain yourself. Live in the present and enjoy what is rather than in anticipation of what luck might have brought.

PISCES Like-mindedness is going to be hard to achieve among your coworkers, but there are likely to be a few who see things as you do.

Choose carefully and find someone to walk with you. Some words of encouragement might be needed to enlist the person you choose.

Source: NNPA News Service

Page 10

ENTERTAINMENT

Colorism in Hollywood: Can Michelle Obama bring change?

The Root

by Keli Goff

Recently I had the pleasure of moderating a conversation hosted by New York Women in Film and Television and the Fox Broadcasting Co. on the issue of diversity in Hollywood, particularly in terms of casting.

The panel included some of the industry’s leaders on the subject. …

The industry veterans spoke candidly of the challenges that still exist in Hollywood regarding making the entire industry more diverse, challenges they have all confronted through their efforts to make diversity a priority in their projects.

While the entire conversation was enlightening and at times inspiring, one moment was particularly memorable. A black woman with a dark complexion spoke of how rare it is to see someone who looks like her on-screen. Acknowledging that there is still room for improvement, the executives nevertheless pointed to the successes of various darkerskinned black actresses, from Gabourey Sidibe to rising star Emayatzy Corinealdi.

But despite these successes, one inescapable fact remains: Rarely is an actress cast as a romantic interest who has a darker complexion than her leading man. Think of any classic film with a black leading man – “Boomerang,” “The Best Man,” “Love Jones,” “Brown Sugar” – or even nonclassic films, such as Hitch.

There appears to be a formula: Black male paired with lighterskinned black female or nonblack female.

To be clear, this is not a criticism of these actors or actresses. It is a criticism of one of the world’s most influential industries for perpetually reinforcing a narrow definition of what constitutes beauty. But it appears that this definition may finally be changing in Hollywood, thanks to a certain first lady.

I have previously written about the issue of colorism in politics and how candidates who are fairerskinned tend to fare better (no pun intended) with white voters. A topic that I also explored with experts is whether Michelle Obama’s darker skin color helped authenticate her

half-white husband with black voters.

But another question that now bears asking is whether or not their union – the world’s most powerful and influential black Michelle man, paired Obama with a woman who is darker than he is – has helped change how beauty and attractiveness are defined in Hollywood and beyond.

There are already signs that the answer is a resounding yes.

Actress and commentator Nancy Giles tackled the topic of the Obamas’ impact on redefining America’s beauty standards in her one-woman show, “Further Adventures of the Accidental Pundette.”

But perhaps the greatest testament to the Obamas’ impact is that the hottest on-screen couple at the moment is President Fitzgerald Grant and Olivia Pope, of ABC’s “Scandal.”

In this case the actress is darker than her leading man – much so.

Kerry Washington portrays Pope, while white actor Tony Goldwyn portrays President Grant. This pairing as the foundation of a major television show, on a major television network, would likely have not been perceived as realistic just a few years ago. But now that the nation’s definitions of femininity and womanhood are embodied by a darker-skinned first lady, the pairing no longer seems so surprising. Other on-screen pairings featuring a darker leading lady that have followed the emergence of the Obamas on the national stage are Corinealdi and Omari Hardwick in the film “Middle of Nowhere.”

By starring in America’s most enviable black love story, the Obamas have forever changed our image of what romantic leading men and leading ladies look like. Here’s hoping that Hollywood continues following their lead.

(Keli Goff is The Root’s special correspondent. Follow her on Twitter.)

May 30 - June 5, 2013

Employment

We have an opening for job looking for the following: Accounts Bookkeeper, Representatives, Payable/Receivable Requirements: Ability to function independently in a fast paced environment. If you are interested in this job or other Accounting job opportunities from Accounting please apply online at ptommy61@gmail.com

Legal notices

ALL INTERESTED BIDDERS The Shelby County Board of Education will accept written proposals for a Volunteer Management System and for Background Check Services.

Visit our website for additional information: www.mcsk12.net-Departments, Procurement Services link, click on Bids & RFPs. Questions concerning proposals should be addressed to Procurement Services at (901) 416-5376.

Thank you for your interest and responses.

Jacqueline Saunders, Director Memphis City Schools – Procurement Services LEGAL NOTICE TO BIDDERS Replacement of Power Distribution Equipment Memphis International Airport MSCAA Project Number 10-1306-02 Sealed bids for the Replacement of Power Distribution Equipment, MSCAA Project No. 10-1306-02, will be received by the Staff Services Division of the MemphisShelby County Airport Authority (MSCAA), 3505 Tchulahoma Road, Memphis, Tennessee 38118, until 2:00 PM Local Time on Thursday, July 11, 2013, and immediately thereafter will be opened and publicly read.

BIDS WILL NOT BE RECEIVED AT ANY OTHER LOCATION. The Scope of Services generally consists of replacement of existing power distribution equipment in the Terminal Building and Concourses. Specific features to be replaced include the CB switchboard, motor control centers CB1, CB2, W1, E2, and W2, substations #5 and #6, and other incidental features. Scope includes modification of and installation of electrical equipment up to and including 15,000 Volt systems.

Bid Documents may be obtained and found on our website (www.mscaa.com) on or after Monday, June 3, 2013. Bid documents may be examined at the following locations in Memphis, TN: Builderʼs Exchange Plans Room, McGraw-Hill Construction Dodge Plans Room, Memphis Area Minority Contractorʼs Association, Mid-South Minority Business Council, National Association of Minority Contractors, and Renaissance Business Center Bid Room. Information regarding obtaining bid documents, addenda to these documents and any other additional information may be found on our website (www.mscaa.com).

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MEMPHIS-SHELBY COUNTY AIRPORT AUTHORITY

By Larry D. Cox, President & CEO

COMMUNITY

Tri-State Defender

BRIEFS & THINGS Way to Well Health Tour in Memphis

The National Urban League and Walgreen’s Way to Well Health Tour has three remaining stops set for Memphis – June 1-3.

The tour provides free health tests, assessments, education and consulting services to residents in urban and minority communities who experience disproportionately higher rates of preventable disease. The service is free and insurance will not be billed.

Tests will be administered by certified wellness staff and include: total cholesterol, glucose, blood pressure, body mass index, body composition, skeletal muscle, resting metabolism, visceral fat, real body age and body weight. Visitors also will have access to educational materials and risk assessments that are designed to give personal insights that may indicate symptoms and potential risks for cancer, heart disease and diabetes.

The 2013 tour marks the seventh year Walgreens and the National Urban League have joined together on the community outreach program. Since 2009, 40 percent of those who tested positive for high blood pressure, and over 20 percent of those who tested positive for high cholesterol were unaware of their diagnosis and were able to receive consultations and educational resources.

Over 30 percent of those tested had no health insurance.

The Wellness Tour will be making the following stops in the Memphis area: Saturday, June 1 – 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Sisterhood Showcase at Memphis Cook Convention Center, 255 North Main St.; Sunday, June 2 – noon-6 p.m., Sisterhood Showcase; Monday, June 3 – 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Walgreens, 1845 S. 3rd St.

Memphis teaching policy fellow wins national award Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Lisa Watts

Knight Road Elementary School teacher Josalyn Tresvant McGhee is one of only four teachers nationwide to win the 2013 Fishman Prize for Superlative Classroom Practice, a prestigious award that spotlights exceptionally effective teachers working in high-poverty public schools.

Tresvant McGhee will receive $25,000 and participate in a special summer residency with The New Teacher Projec (TNTP), a non-profit organization now in its second year that offers the annual award.

The application process for the Fishman Prize – open to all full-time teachers working in high-poverty public schools – is rigorous. This year, more than 570 teachers from 42 states submitted full applications.

About 100 teachers were invited to submit teaching videos and letters of reference, and 20 were chosen as semi-finalists. TNTP staff conducted in-class observations. Tresvant McGhee was among the nine finalists and went on to be interviewed by a panel of judges.

A graduate of Memphis City Schools, Tresvant McGhee left a career in banking to return to the school system and become a special educator through the Memphis Teaching Fellows program in 2009.

Public hearing focus: Costs associated with violence against women

The Tennessee Economic Council on Women (TECW) will hold its sixth public hearing on Violence Against Women on June 7 at 8 a.m. at the Urban Child Institute, located at 600 Jefferson Ave. The 2013 Economic Council study expands the scope of its 2006 report, which focused on the economic impact of domestic violence alone. Local officials and experts representing medicine, insurance, business, criminal justice and social services will testify on investment and costs of resources expended to address domestic violence, sexual assault, rape and human sex trafficking. The hearings will result in a comprehensive study that looks at the crimes through an economic lens.

The TECW will hold a public hearing in each of Tennessee’s nine development districts before producing its report in October 2013. “The hearings have also exposed a need for better prevention efforts and communication among local authorities, service providers and funding sources,” said Rep. Karen Camper (D-Memphis), a member of the Economic Council and chair of the Tennessee Legislative women’s and veterans caucuses.

The hearing will be ppresented in partnership with the Memphis Area Women’s Council, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee and the Urban Child Institute.

BRIEFLY: Juvenile Court of Memphis and Shelby County will hold an open meeting on Saturday, June 8th at the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library (3030 Poplar Ave.) from 1 p.m-3 p.m.

Topic: United States Department of Justice “Notice of Findings” report.

I pledge…

Page 11

May 30 - June 5, 2013

Doris Randle-Holt is sworn in as the Federal Public Defender as Chief U.S. District Court Judge Jon McCalla administers the oath during a ceremony last Friday (May 24) at the Clifford Davis-Odell Horton Federal Building. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

Her teaching strategy includes requiring her students to write down their big goals for the year and engaging them in candid conversations regarding their progress. Her students, who typically enter her classroom three to four years below grade level, regularly leave Tresvant McGhee’s class having gained 1.5 to 2 years of growth in reading, and with proficient or advanced scores on their state assessment.

“We’re so proud of Ms. Tresvant’s achievement – a result of her hard work, dedication and commitment,” said Dorsey E. Hopson, Memphis City and Shelby County Schools interim superintendent. “She is an extraordinary teacher and we appreciate everything she’s done for her students and the district.”

Tresvant McGhee is also involved in education policy issues through the Teaching Policy Fellowship with Teach Plus, a nonprofit that works to improve outcomes for urban children by ensuring that a greater proportion of students have access to effective, experienced teachers.

“Showcasing and rewarding the work of excellent teachers like Josalyn is a critical lever in raising the status of the teaching profession,” said Teach Plus CEO Celine Coggins. “We’re thrilled for Josalyn, and we’re proud to do our part to elevate the profession by recruiting phenomenal teachers like her for our leader-

Dr. Yvette Renfroe, Knight Road Elementary principal (left) and Dr. Terence Brown, Southeast Regional Superintendent congratulate Josalyn Tresvant McGhee on receiving the 2013 Fishman Prize for Superlative Classroom Practice. (Courtesy photo) ship programs. These teachers are poised to be national leaders in effecting positive, lasting change in their profession.”

Tresvant McGhee will soon join the three other Fishman Prize winners for an intensive, six-week summer residency. The trio will meet with education leaders, engage in the challenge of helping more teachers improve their classroom practice, and collaborate on a paper that captures their insights and knowledge. Last year’s winners wrote “Unlocking Student Effort,” which focuses on the challenge of engaging reluctant learners.

“We’re proud to have Josalyn represent Tennessee,” said Kevin Huffman, Tennessee Commissioner of Education. “Her efforts to support student learning and grow as an educator are a model for effective teaching, and this award is a well-deserved recognition of those efforts.”

Tresvant McGhee was quick to credit her colleagues and students with supporting her and helping her to excel.

“They will not let me fail,” she said.

(Lisa Watts is Teach Plus Memphis Executive Director.)

Creative Aging Senior Variety Show is a real ‘howling’ success Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Debbi Hicks

In preparation for Creative Aging’s 4th Annual Senior Variety Show, I had the pleasure of judging a talent contest at the Josephine K. Lewis Senior Center on May 22. There were 11 acts and 65 seniors in the audience. It was a wonderful morning showcasing talented, vibrant seniors.

The show opened with Stan McCarver singing “Crazy for You,” in a beautifully mellow voice. He was quite confident, and his performance was a joy to hear. Bob Koonce tap-danced to “Rocky Top” with great energy and vitality. Evelyn Taylor Stamps, the winner of the talent showcase, performed a reading of the poem “Little Orphan Annie.”

Among several other singers, Eddie Murphy sang “By Your Love” in a magnificent baritone voice that was reminiscent of the late James Hyter. Elnora Buchanan entertained with a lovely piano solo.

A guitar class showed off the talents of eight seniors who have been studying with guitarist Linda Simmons. They played a vari-

ety of tunes, but the most entertaining number featured the unusual talents of Lone Wolf, who sang and howled while playing the guitar, accompanied by his classmates in their rendition of “Howling for My Darling.”

Talent contests such as this one are taking place in numerous senior facilities, including nursing homes, assisted living facilities, independent housing complexes and senior community centers. Winning performers at each facility will be invited to perform at Creative Aging’s 4th Annual Senior Variety Show, which will be held on Sunday, July 28th from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Kirby Pines Estates, 3535 Kirby Road.

Tickets are $10 and include refreshments and door prizes. Free parking and shuttle service available. All proceeds support Creative Aging Mid-South, which provides arts performances and workshops for older adults where they live and gather.

For more information, call 901-272-3434 or visit www.creativeagingmidsouth.org.

(Debbi Hicks is a Creative Aging Board member and marketing director for Right at Home.)

Eddie Murphy (above left) put his baritone voice to good use on “By Your Love.”

Evelyn Taylor Stamps (left) won the talent showcase with her rendition of the poem “Little Orphan Annie.” (Courtesy photos)

Eagle has landed…

Trennie Williams Jr., with his father nearby, has his Eagle Scout badge pinned by his mother, Kiwayna Williams, during a ceremony at Mullins United Methodist Church last Saturday, May. 25. Austin Duran, not pictured, also earned his Eagle Badge. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

SPORTS Tri-State Defender, Thursday, May 30 - June 5, 2013, Page 12

Best Ever!

Grizzlies 2013 Season in Review: Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Kelley Evans

“It’s painful to watch,” said Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol.

“It’s an awful situation that we’re in,” Grizz guard Tony Allen said.

Those were responses after Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals against the San Antonio Spurs, which marked the ninth playoff ever for the Grizzlies. The team was hoping to make history.

They wanted to defeat the Spurs in Game 4 to keep the run going.

They wanted to win Games 5 and 6 and 7 to move on to battle for a championship.

The Spurs won that game and went on to sweep the Grizzlies out of the NBA Playoffs. No one, however, can deny that the Grizzlies put up a good fight to reach a place where they’ve never gone before. The series marked the third time Memphis has squared off with San Antonio in the postseason (2004, 0-4 and 2011, 4-2).

The Grizzlies made history in 2013.

The season was not painful. The ending was just somber and only because no one wanted to see it come to an end. The players yearned to bring the city of Memphis a championship. It just didn’t happen this season.

But what fans can embrace is the fact that progress was made despite the curve balls that were thrown. The team was taken over by new owners. A key starter and three bench players were all traded off. Yet, the Grizzlies regrouped and advanced to fight for the prize.

The Grizzlies’ post season con-

cluded after 15 games with eight wins (Clippers 4-2, Thunder 4-1 and Spurs 0-4). In the last two post seasons, the Grizzlies were eliminated by the Thunder (2011) and the Clippers (2012).

Memphis has faced five franchises during its playoff history (San Antonio, Phoenix, Dallas, Oklahoma City and the Los Angeles Clippers).

During the playoffs, fans experienced grit and grind before the team exhausted their possibilities on May 27, ending their most successful season in franchise history.

Now comes the waiting period to learn if Grizzlies head coach Lionel Hollins will coach the team next year. Another concern is Allen’s fate as a Memphis Grizzly.

Fans are also wondering about Grizzlies guard Jerryd Bayless’ future and if he will remain for next season.

Hollins and Allen have said they would like to stay in Memphis. Bayless said he’s open to it.

The Grizzlies have not signed Hollins to a new contract and other teams have expressed interest. He is not allowed to speak with other teams until July 1.

Finding more integral players to fit into the scheme of the team is pivotal. More shooters? Sure. But Hollins has said that he is in search of more than just shooters.

He’s looking for guys who can make plays.

A disappointed Zach Randolph exits the basketball court after the Grizz lost to the Spurs in OT, 104-93, in Game 3. (Photos by Warren Roseborough)

Grizz Note: The Memphis Grizzlies will be among the 22 teams that will compete in the NBA Summer League 2013 in Las Vegas this summer, the NBA announced on Wednesday. It marks the sixth time (2007-10, 2012-13) that Memphis will take part in the event.

Tony Allen and Tony Parker battle to the floor for this loose ball in Game 3.

The Grizzles huddle before Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals, appearing focused and ready to play. They led 44-40 at halftime, but lost in OT.

Special to the New Tri-State Defender

Children’s smiles, fidgets and careful steps greeted me last Sunday (May 26) at the Orange Mound Community Center (OMCC) Athletic Appreciation Banquet.

A number of children and their families walked into the ballroom at the Holiday InnUniversity of Memphis full of anticipation. They came to celebrate the theme, “Hard Work Pays Off”.

The children (ages five to 16) had worked hard, on and off the court. Extended family and surrogate mothers and fathers were all in the mix ready for the celebration. The pride was evident.

Each student got a trophy saluting his/her hardwood ac-

complishments. The academic accomplishment of each child also was celebrated. Coach Raymond Stone is a firm believer of effort on the court and in the classroom.

Orange Mound has long been a pivotal component of the African-American community. And while some may say that the community’s pride has faded over the years, it seemed well rooted on this day in this setting.

The banquet exposed the children to a formal banquet setting. The tables were professionally set and the wait staff assisted with any needs of the guests. A prominent part of the banquet was the keynote speech and presentation of gifts

by Tawanda and Cordell Pirtle of Jack Pirtle’s restaurants.

Kudos to Coach Stone and his staff and volunteers.

Tony Parker – the Grizzlies killer – scored a game-high 37 points in the deciding Game 4 of the NBA Western Conference Finals at the FedExForum on Monday night.

“Hard Work Pays Off” was an appropriate theme for the appreciation banquet.

(Photos: Christopher Hope)

More than sports in the lesson plan at Orange Mound Community Center

by Nona N. Allen

Quincy Pondexter drives to the basket and scores against Tim Duncan. Pondexter led the Grizzlies in scoring with 22 points off the bench in Game 4.

Students received trophies for their accomplishments.