VOL. 61, No. 36
September 6 - 12, 2012
www.tsdmemphis.com
75 Cents
Southern Heritage Classic
ʻAmbassadorsʼ make it happen
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Tony Jones
Fred Jones and his staff stage one of the region’s most highly anticipated spectacles each fall: the Southern Heritage Classic Weekend. The mainstay’s centerpiece is a long-held tradition of rivalry on the football field between Jackson State University in Jackson, Miss., and Nashville’s Tennessee State University. Add to that the pageantry of luncheons, fashion shows, celebrity performances, champaign receptions and a fiercely-performed “Battle of the Bands.” The result is a multi-milliondollar affair complete with thousands of alumni and students who converge on the city to witness it all. How does Jones do it? How does he make it all happen? He gets by with a little help from his friends – namely, a dedicated group of volunteers called Ambassadors. Led by Bhalander Joe Boyd and Shari Green, the organization works to support Classic events by tying up all the loose ends and taking care of those all-important small details. From stocking supplies to assisting celebrity guests, and everything in between, Ambassadors take their assignments very seriously. “Volunteers have numbered as many as 200 in past years,” said Boyd, “but we usually run more like 100, or a few more. That’s how many we have this year.” Team leaders Boyd and Green are as passionate about the Southern Heritage Classic as they are about their “lifelong friendship.” “We’ve known each other since elementary school and church,” said Boyd. “We started volunteering for the Classic under Maxine Maclin who taught us the details of coordinating tasks and team members. This is like my second job – 100 percent voluntary – but I love it. You just can’t measure the rewards.” Boyd is a FedEx service sales representative, and Green is a transportation manager for the U.S. Postal SEE CLASSIC ON PAGE 3
Pumped up by First Lady Michelle Obama, Memphians and other Tennesseans at the Democratic National Convention have visions of turning a “Red” state “Blue.” (Photo by Dr. Karanja A. Ajanaku)
Democrats seek ‘Blue Magic’ President gets official nomination kajanaku@tri-statedefender.com
by Karanja A. Ajanaku CHARLOTTE, N. Car. – Twelve hours after wowing supporters at the Democratic National Convention during her address at the Time Warner Cable Arena, First Lady Michelle Obama stepped from behind a curtain in a ballroom at the Charlotte Convention Center and the room exploded. A sea of African-American faces surged forward, with waves of people jostling for a view of Mrs. Obama that they could capture via camera.
The New Tri-State Defender’s Executive Editor, Karanja A. Ajanaku, is directing the production of TSD’s Sept. 6-12 edition from Charlotte, N. Car., where he also is covering the 2012 Democratic National Convention. View additional coverage online at www.tsdmemphis.com
The setting was the African-American Caucus, filled with AfricanAmerican delegates and about as many other African-American convention-goers that could be wedged into the room. “What you do every day for the next 62 days will make the difference
between waking up on Nov. 7 (one day after the election) and asking yourself could I have done more, or sealing the promise of four more years.” “Mmm hmm, four more years,” said a woman behind me. A few minutes later, Mrs. Obama leaned toward the audience and said she needed to know something. “Are you fired up?” “Fired up!” came the response, as rows of people jumped to their feet. Mrs. Obama fired back: “Are you ready to go?” Chants of “Ready to go” echoed back. Mrs. Obama came back with, “I’m so fired up, can you tell?” “This is about our future, our sons
and our daughters and the world we want to leave for them long after we are gone.” Each person entering the room walked pass a table where they were offered a handout from African Americans for Obama (est. 2007) that spelled out five “simple things you can do online to make sure that President Obama is re-elected. On the list: Join Dashboard, the campaigns online engagement tool. Spread the word on Facebook and Twitter. Download the APP that the campaign recently released for both iphones and Androids. SEE OBAMA ON PAGE 2
‘Gas For Guns’ aim is less ‘mean’ streets Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell
See Best in Black event coverage on page 12 and in the special section.
WREG News anchor Markova Reed and her sister share a moment with Dr. David L. Acey, executive director of the Africa in April Cultural Awareness Festival, at the Best In Black VIP Reception. (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)
MEMPHIS WEEKEND
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
H- 9 4o - L - 6 8o I so . T-St orms
H- 8 1o - L - 5 8o I so. T-Storms
H- 8 1o - L - 5 8o S unn y
REGIONAL TEMPS LITTLE ROCK NASHVILLE JACKSON, MS
Friday H-99 L-70 H-91 L-68 H-95 L-72
Saturday H-85 L-58 H-73 L-57 H-82 L-61
Sunday H-83 L-58 H-77 L-56 H-81 L-57
- INSIDE -
• ‘Big Mike’ left us real big memories. See Entertainment, page 8. • How to raise capital via Internet crowd funding. See Business, page 5. • Tigers could use a kick-start. See Sports, page 10. • Dedication yields recognition for NAACP membership workers. See Community, page 11.
Michael Clarke Duncan
Law enforcement in Baton Rouge (Louisiana) collected 260; Nashville boasted 260. And on Saturday, Sept. 15, a Memphis pastor and local corporate partners are hoping for an equally successful haul in an upcoming “Guns For Gas” effort. “Too many lives have been lost because of gun violence, not just here in South Memphis, but all over this city,” said the Rev. Ralph White, pastor of Bloomfield Full Gospel Baptist Church. “If we can take some of these guns off the street, especially out of the hands of our young people, I believe we’ll see a decline in gun violence.” Semiautomatic pistols, revolvers, assault rifles, shotguns – all kinds of firearms – can be brought to the church parking lot at 123 S. Parkway West,” said White. For each gun, a voucher will be given for a $50 gas card and two tickets to a Memphis Grizzlies game. Up to three guns may be turned in, each in exchange for a gas card. No questions asked. “Because our partners have been so generous, we can give $150 in gas cards for three guns,” said Rev. White. “We expect that the high gas prices will be a great incentive. Also, the Grizzlies tickets will lure sports fans as well.” Whether participants arrive on foot or in a vehicle, they are asked to bring the firearms in a paper bag, some kind of box, a backpack, or gun safe. All guns should be unloaded at the time of surrender. A special unit of the Memphis Police Department will remove guns
from their packages and collect them for disposal. Bloomfield Urban Ministries – the nonprofit, outreach arm of the church – is the program’s sponsor. Similar programs in urban areas, especially Rev. Ralph across the southWhite east region, have experienced wide participation. Past programs in Memphis have been sponsored in the last five years. “We expect to see an immediate decline to some degree in the number of shootings, armed robberies, and other gun violence,” said Ron Kent, owner of Chow Time and China Inn Restaurants. “Our children, our families and our streets will be a little bit safer. Both my wife, Carolyn, and I felt sponsorship was important.” Officials in other cities report that hundreds of these firearms collected over the years have included everything from small-caliber pistols to military-style AK-47 assault rifles. Mayor AC Wharton Jr., Ron Kent, The New Tri-State Defender, The Memphis Grizzlies and Mapco Stores have all joined Bloomfield as sponsors. “Some are not hopeful that this event will effect gun violence and crime,” said White. “I beg to disagree. I understand that firearms are very accessible on the street. I understand that although hundreds will turn in their guns, many more will hold on to theirs. “(If) Gas For Guns” save even one life, the effort is well worth it.”
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NEWS
Tri-State Defender
September 6 - 12, 2012
Democratic National Convention
‘Right choice’ Clinton says of President Obama New America Media
by Anthony Advincula CHARLOTTE, N.Car. – Former President Bill Clinton appealed Wednesday night to millions of American voters, making a clear case that President Obama is the right choice to lead the country for four more years. Before a roaring crowd at the Democratic National Convention here, Clinton touted Obama’s efforts to shape up the economic doldrums left behind by the previous Republican administration. “No president, not me, or any of my predecessors have repaired all the damage in just four years,” Clinton said. “But conditions are improving and if you’ll renew the President’s contract, you’ll feel.”
Speech highlights
Jobs: In the last 29 months, Obama created 4.5 million jobs in the private sector. Energy: Obama’s energy plan has reduced driven oil imports and increased gas production to an all-time high. Health care: Under Obama’s health care policy, Americans between 19 and 25 can be insured in their parents’ policies.
Photos by Dr. Karanja A. Ajanaku
OBAMA
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
Read BarackObama.com and share the news. Text “READY” to 62262, assuring conclusion on a list with the latest news alerts, local campaign information and voting reminders. Mrs. Obama, continuing what many observers here noted as heightened energy and even more of the sincerity she already is known for, told the crowd to go beyond taking individual responsibility for their own votes. She told here audience to move on others, visit battleground states and call people they know in battleground states. Reminding them of how close the election was in numerous places in 2008, she said a few handful of votes could make a difference in some cases. During her keynote address on Tuesday night, some delegates said the First Lady managed to make most of the thousands of people in the Time Warner Cable Arena feel as though she was talking directly to them. State Rep. Karen Camper (D-Memphis) carried a “We Love Michelle” sign as she and other members of the Tennessee Delegation to the Democratic National Convention began the informal process of debriefing themselves about an evening of speeches capped off by Mrs. Obama. The hallways of the Time Warner Cable Arena were abuzz and it mostly was about Mrs. Obama and a “talk: that registered with many for its personal touch and feel. “I heard from her that you can trust her husband, that he has values that are innate in him,” said Camper. “And that he would not waiver from those values because they were bred in him by his family...and he is rooted in that. Even when the noise (criticism) is loud, he can turn down the noise and turn to his inward values.”
Wharton receives Susan Burgess Memorial Award The New Tri-State Defender
CHARLOTTE, N. Car. – Mayor A C Wharton Jr. on Wednesday received the Democratic Municipal Officials (DMO) 2012 Susan Burgess Memorial Award here in recognition of his commitment to improving education. Taking the stage, Wharton acknowledged the helping hand from City Councilman Myron Lowery, who nominated him. He had the crowd, which included Lowery and numerous other Memphians who made the trip for the Democratic National Convention, rolling as he said he didn’t immediately open the letter that informed him he actually had won the award because he was a bit sore with Lowery and the Council at the time. That sore spots was smoothed over in a way that needs to become more of the norm on the national level, said Wharton. “I’m humbled and honored to be chosen as the second recipient for the Susan Burgess Memorial Award, and I want to thank Memphis City Councilman Myron Lowery, a longtime DMO member, for nominating me,” Wharton had said earlier in a released statement. “Last fall, when we were facing the very real possibility of a schools shutdown due to funding issues, I insisted we broker a compromise that allowed schools to open on time. Our priority has to be the education of our children.” The Susan Burgess Memorial Award was established in 2011 to honor the late Susan Burgess, a former chair of the DMO and a longtime member of the Charlotte City Council. “Susan Burgess was my friend, and Mayor Wharton embodies her spirit of providing strong leadership in support of public education,” Lowery said earlier. “The challenges that urban areas face today can, and will, only be solved by providing a quality education to all of our citizens.” “Mayor Wharton is an inspiring leader and, we think, an inspired choice to be the recipient of the 2012 Susan Burgess Memorial Award,” said Barbara Moore, executive director of the DMO. “The Mayor has demonstrated that he is committed to public education and, with programs such as Books from Birth and Memphis/Shelby Achieves, he has shown he’s committed to lifelong learning.” The presentation of the award was at Emeril Lagasse’s E2 Restaurant, near the Charlotte Convention Center.
Tri-State Defender
CLASSIC
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
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Service. “The Classic is a perfect illustration of what the black community can accomplish,” said Green. “It’s a huge undertaking and takes a lot of work, but the people we work with are committed and work tirelessly every year to make sure it goes as smooth as possible. Our part is to help this man, Fred Jones, promote a successful event that embraces and speaks for us all.” Boyd agreed. “The game has become a giant family reunion, a community of shared feelings. For instance, the attendance at the tailgating event has become nearly as huge as the attendance at the game, and The Ambassadors are there to make sure it goes without a hitch.” Matching personnel to need is the real trigger to the team’s success. For example, making sure that you have a person
NEWS
September 6 - 12, 2012
able to multitask under pressure,” Green says, “or not being caught up in personalities while the work is getting done. So much comes at you sometimes and we have to make sure that the team member we’ve assigned can handle the responsibility and communicate in a calm manner if something out of the ordinary occurs.” One such “out of the ordinary” occurrence of the volunteer brigade’s skill being tested was during a major remodeling
project of the Liberty Bowl. Call it, “the Case of the Disappearing Seats.” According to Green, the Ambassadors showed up for the game “about noon and found out new seats had been installed, but there were several rows of seats missing – seats for which tickets had been sold. We had to manage that situation and make sure everyone was seated and happy.” Southern Heritage Founder and Producer Fred Jones re-
called that day. “They had torn out all of the box seats, but we had already sold them out. There is no way I could put a value on what the Ambassadors do,” said Jones. “All I can say is that without them I couldn’t get the Classic done.” Pictured from left are Shari Green and Bhalander Jo Boyd, who head up the Southern Heritage Classic volunteer team, The Ambassadors. (Photo by Tony Jones)
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OPINION
Tri-State Defender
September 6 - 12, 2012
John H. Sengstacke Publisher (1951 - 1997)
The Mid-Southʼs Best Alternative Newspaper
A Real Times Newspaper
• Bernal E. Smith II President / Publisher • Dr. Karanja A. Ajanaku Executive Editor
Illegitimate views on rape
This is no time to rest, say advocates of womenʼs rights NNPA News Service
by Jamala Rogers
SPECIAL REPORT
Healthcare Industry: Big business for small, ‘minority’ businesses Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Tarrin McGhee
Forty-five percent of healthcare systems throughout the country plan on spending more money in capital investment this year than what was spent in the past five years – a move that will present tremendous new business opportunities for minority and women vendors and service providers, according to Gary Shorb. Shorb, president and CEO, Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, relayed that forecast last week as the Mid-South Minority Business Council Continuum (MMBCC) hosted its fifth annual Economic Development Forum (EDF) Aug. 27-29. Representatives from various industries convened at the Cook Convention Center to share best practices and insights with EDF participants on opportunities to position their companies for future success. One of the forum’s primary areas of focus was to give local business owners the inside scoop on how to penetrate the $5 trillion healthcare industry. At a panel discussion entitled “Healthcare: Fueling Growth, Opportunity and Innovation,” CEOs and presidents from four large healthcare institutions discussed the economic impact of the industry on communities, and the role that it plays in driving business growth. Citing interest in increasing minority business inclusion and diversifying the vendor/supplier pool for their corporations, the panelists – Reginald Coopwood, president & CEO, Regional Medical Center (The Med); Stephen C. Reynolds, president and CEO, Baptist Memorial Health Care; Andrea R. Price, president and CEO, Mercy Hospital Health System Northern Region; and Shorb – each emphasized the importance of solid infrastructure and innovation from companies interested in contracting and partnerships. To take advantage of the opportunities, companies must have the ability to work proactively to help health care corporations meet their objectives, said Shorb. “Something that our diversity suppliers/partners have in common is anticipating problems before they occur instead of solving problems after they occur, which is of tremendous value to our organization,” Shorb stressed. Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare is working to increase its minority spending to 20 percent overall. The organization is building a new hospital in Olive Branch, Miss., with a goal of 30 percent minority participation on the $100 million project. “As part of our mission as a faithbased organization, we try to do what we can to close the gap in health disparities, but we are also concerned about economic disparities,” said Shorb. “We know that the whole community can’t prosper if we have parts of the community that really are held back. It’s through a focus from senior leadership and visible support that we can (close the gaps) and make this happen.” Coopwood agreed. “From our standpoint, there’s value in utilizing a local business to provide some services with some degree of margin. The margin is the value in investing in your community, but that margin can’t be such that it affects our bottom line and ability to be competitive,” he said. Over the past three years, The Regional Medical Center has witnessed 100 percent-plus growth in investments in minority and women owned business development, according to Coopwood. About 16 percent of The Med’s total spending ($8 million dollars) goes to minority suppliers. “It’s a trajectory that we want to continue, and ensure that we are a good corporate partner for everyone in our community,” said Coopwood. “But it all goes back to how well you help us accomplish the things we need. In order for us to work together, you have to get ahead of the curve to provide solutions.” Facilitated by Lisa Kranc, Senior VP of Marketing at AutoZone, the panel discussion centered on ways that minority and women business owners and executives can take advantage of various opportunities that exist within the healthcare industry to increase profits. Medical research, engineering, in-
formation technology, manufacturing, purchasing, construction, facilities management, products and services, and population health management were among the primary areas presented by panelists as business opportunities. Lack of capacity and capital are two main challenges confronted by small to mid-size companies seeking to gain new business with large corporations such as health care institutions. As industry leaders seek to identify ways to cut expenditures and increase profits, relationship development and management and innovation were offered as primary ways that business owners can overcome such barriers. “We are under a tremendous amount of pressure to reduce our costs,” Price said. “But it’s not only just pricing or supplying us with products and services, it’s about providing us with other value added services…and finding out what it is we’re going through and how you can help and assist us in that,” he said. For small to mid-size companies seeking to create partnerships with healthcare corporations, critical factors for success include quality of service, flexibility in meeting the needs of the client, and pricing. The economic downturn has had a significant impact on the growth rate and success of businesses across the country. Even within the healthcare industry, leaders and executives are working to identify new approaches to sustain. However, because of its staying power and overall net worth, the healthcare industry presents myriad opportunities for minority and women business owners to forge ahead. It (healthcare) is creating more jobs than any industry in the country,” said Lisa Kranc, moderator of the forum. “There’s room for everybody to take a piece of this growth.”
Forum Q&A excerpts
Q: Baptist Health Care recently (contracted) $1.2 million with a women-owned firm based in Wisconsin to implement electronic health records across the whole network. What criteria was used for that decision? S.C. Reynolds: Electronic health records is a new way to connect all caregivers together to benefit patients we serve. We looked for a solution that was being used by other large healthcare systems in the country. (We) found that there were organizations that we respect greatly...like Northwestern in Chicago, Yale, Cleveland Clinic and many others, who had chosen to use this solution (Epic). We were looking for a solution that matched our position strategy, benefits the safety and quality of care for our patients, a solution that created efficiencies in workflow. (The) selection process was a rigorous process. Once we came to the top choice, we met with the vendor and had 19 demonstrations over 3 weeks, conducted 1200 surveys, and had overwhelming support for Epic as the choice. Why did we choose (Epic)? We saw the opportunity for very speedy implementation, we looked at their track record of success, and we also saw a tremendous amount of customer support during the selection and the contracting process. Epic brings us a competitive advantage…provides a better record of patient care, provides ease of access to records. It’s a huge investment but we see the opportunity in the future to improve the quality of care for patients.
Q: Supply chain – 30 percent of costs are contained in the supply chain. All panelists talked about the largest area of focus for minority business opportunity…a lot of organizations are focusing on it and want to cut costs as much as 15 to 20 percent. Sounds like a lofty goal. How are you challenging your organizations to meet that goal? R. Coopwood: We seek to find direction with senior leadership and supply chain management to look at opportunities to continue to narrow down costs....We challenge our GPO (group purchasing organizations) vendors to give us good prices in order to meet reductions in costs.
Spare me the ‘we built it’ rhetoric
The Republican National Convention’s theme was, “We Built This.” One of the speakers was Sher Valenzuela, a Delaware businesswoman who happens to be Latina. She touted the success of her upholstery business and implied it thrived because of her hard work. That’s only partly true. She also thrived because she started out with $2 million loan from the Small Business Administration, and got another $15 million in non-competitive government contracts. Would her company, First State Manufacturing, have made it without government help? Your guess is as good as mine. But the notion that “we built this” is extremely shortsighted. What exactly did these Republicans build without government help? They don’t even go to work every day in our nation’s Capitol without the help of unpaid enslaved people who toted rock and worked in hot sun to build our nation’s Capitol. It took until 2010 for our nation’s leaders to erect a plaque commemorating this effort. It reminds me of a book written by Pulitzer Prize-winner Annette Gordon Reed, “The Hemmings of Monticello” (2008). As she reprises some of former President Thomas Jefferson’s diaries, he writes about all the cotton and tobacco “we” planted. I had an amazing visual of Jefferson with a hoe picking and planting. He didn’t. He appropriated the effort of other people’s work, initiative and infrastructure. He didn’t plant a thing. Enslaved people did the work. Based on his diaries, though, the man who died nearly bankrupt, expropriates the work of others in his use of the term “we.” Republicans held their convention last week at the Tampa Bay Times Forum. This is a convention center that was partly built with government money, to the tune of $86 million. As the arena was renovated to accommodate Republican attendees to the convention, no doubt government funds were also used for some of this. This is one of the tax subsidies that Republicans often decry. And how does government justify this? The infusion of all those big spenders might bring money to local venders and tax dollars to the community. I’d like to see the accounting. President Obama is right to talk about the way all enterprise is interconnected and the many ways that the government role stimulates business. Federal, state and local government engage in practices that subsidize businesses because they hope for a return, or because they believe that there are benefits to the community that may come because of government investment. Most sports arenas and fine arts concert halls have some government investment, and hopefully nobody is running around shouting “we built it.” Still, the Re-
publican stance seems to be a purposeful amnesia, an attempt to ignore the many ways government facilitates the building that they claim they do. Congressman Paul Ryan, Mitt Romney’s runJulianne ning mate, pepMalveaux pered his speech with slams on President Obama. In his Wednesday night speech, he said, “None of us have to settle for the best this administration offers, a dull, adventureless journey from one entitlement to the next, a government-planned life.” What entitlements is he talking about? Subsidies to Head Start, proven to make a difference in early childhood education? Unemployment benefits, which many in his Janesville, Wisc. hometown community used when a General Motors plant closed under President George Bush not, as he suggested, President Obama? Would he remove Pell grant subsidies to college students? Would he eliminate Social Security? Does he visit national parks? Government subsidies built that. Does he ride on any of our nation’s government subsidized roads and highways? Ryan has told us what he feels about Medicare, but his slam on government entitlements ignores the work government has done. Who built the roads? “We” didn’t. Government did, with the help of well-paid contractors. If Republicans want to know what “we” built, they need to look back to the record of former President George W. Bush. That president built a banking crisis, and gave banks nearly $800 billion to bail themselves out. Bush built an unemployment rate that continued to soar under the leadership of his successor, President Barack Obama. President Bush built a couple of wars, leaving the splash back to President Obama. Romney and Ryan; Do you own the house your party built, the house President Obama is trying to repair? Will you claim the “we” on this? Republicans need to be reminded of who built what when they walk into our nation’s Capitol. Some folks eagerly claim credit for their quasiaccomplishments. Others toil, and it takes more than 200 years for our nation to grudgingly acknowledge them. As a descendent of enslaved people, that “we built it” rhetoric repels me. (NNPA columnist Julianne Malveaux, a Washington, D.C.-based economist and writer, is President Emerita of Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, N.C.)
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Tri-State Defender Platform
1. Racial prejudice worldwide must be destroyed. 2. Racially unrestricted membership in all jobs, public and private. 3. Equal employment opportunities on all jobs, public and private. 4. True representation in all U.S. police forces. 5. Complete cessation of all school segregation. 6. Federal intervention to protect civil rights in all instances where civil rights compliance at the state level breaks down
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I felt the spirit of Dr. Aaronnette White guiding my fingers for this column. A couple of weeks ago, Aaronnette died suddenly at the premature age of 51 years. A rape survivor and a Jamala respected psyRogers chology professor, she was a fierce warrior for the reproductive rights of women, particularly African-American women. During her brief stint in St. Louis during the 1980s, she organized black women (and some black men) to take out a full-page ad in The St. Louis American condemning rape in the black community. It was a bold move that pulled the covers off an issue that had rarely received public scrutiny. Recently, Congressman Todd Akin (R-Mo.) caused a firestorm when asked about his staunch opposition to abortion in the case of women getting pregnant after a rape. He gave this stunning explanation: “If it’s a legitimate rape, the female body has ways to try to shut that whole thing down.” GOP leaders (and moneyed supporters) ran as fast and far away from Akin as they could. The Republican National Committee chair, along with other party officials, demanded that Akin – who won the Republican primary for U.S. Senate on August 7 – step down. VP contender Paul Ryan called the remarks “outrageous” and “indefensible.” I found this retort to be quite hypocritical as Ryan shares the same viewpoint. Ryan and Akin have co-sponsored bills that are tearing away at the right to a safe and accessible abortion. Last year, nearly 1,000 anti-abortion bills were introduced across the country. The laws have teetered on the absurd, such as forcing women to endure vaginal ultrasounds before abortions, or redefining the moment of conception. An Arizona law passed this year declared that pregnancy begins two weeks before conception! The laws prohibit federal funding of abortion or birth control services resulting in de-funding of groups such as Planned Parenthood. Abortion clinics have been bombed, and doctors who performed abortions have been assaulted or killed. The detrimental bills passed by Republicans also have attempted to redefine rape. They have coined new and confusing terms such as “forcible rape” and “consensual rape.” Akin’s comments amplified the voices of some of the 32,000 women who are raped each year but who make a conscious choice to keep their babies. Women like Shauna Prewitt. Did you know that the rapist fathers can sue for parental rights? Prewitt knows all too well. The attack on rape victims is unconscionable even though these draconian views on rape have persisted in conservative circles for a couple of decades. They have emanated from Dr. John Wilke, a butthead who must have bought his medical degree online at www.degreesforstupidpeople.com. All the other right-wing nuts defer to Dr. Wilke’s demented medical explanation: that women have some biological semen blocker that is released during rape. I decided to consult a real obgyn doctor about the validity of these unscientific ideas; maybe I had missed some new research on the subject. I called up my niece, Dr. Rene Turner, who graduated Summa Cum Laude from real medical schools (Xavier and Tulane) and now works with real women patients. She totally debunked the pre-historic thinking about rape and pregnancies and expressed surprised that any sane person would promote such harmful myths. This brings me all the way back to the work of Dr. White and countless others who have worked tirelessly to educate the general society on the issue of rape, to end the attacks on women’s reproductive rights and to bring about the personal and psychological security of women. We who believe in freedom and women’s rights should not rest until the lives, choices and dignity of all women are fully restored and protected. (Special to the NNPA from the St. Louis American)
BUSINESS
Tri-State Defender
ON OUR WAY TO WEALTHY
How to raise needed capital via Internet crowd funding (Last week we discussed ‘Shark Tank’ and the televised opportunity to request funding from shrewd venture capitalists. But there are even more creative ways to raise much needed money.)
Earlier this year, the JOBS (Jumpstart Our Business Startups) Act of 2012 was signed into law to increase the delivCarlee ery of capMcCullough ital to smaller entities, creating more jobs. It was the fruit of a rare bipartisan effort linking the House, Senate and President Obama. While most people equate the JOBS Act with encouraging big businesses to hire more people, the truth is that small businesses, startups and entrepreneurs now have even more opportunities to raise much needed capital through a non-traditional means known as Internet crowd funding. Historically, businesses had serious limitations on how they raised funds. From Securities Exchange Commission registration requirements to compliance with state securities laws (often referred to as Blue Sky Laws), companies were banned from any general solicitations using modern communications. And it no secret that entrepreneurs, startups and small businesses have a difficult time obtaining funds through the traditional avenues of bank financing, venture capitalists and even angel investors. Internet crowd funding is vehicle for relief. The basic concept is to raise money through an online funding portal via small contributions from a large number of people that wish to support the dreams and efforts of others. There are two broad categories of crowd funding. In one category, the money is given in return for actual goods or services. Internet sites offer two models – “All or Nothing” and “Keep It All.” Under the “All or Nothing” model, an entity seeking funding is given a period of time to collect pledges from contributors. If the entity has not met their fundraising goal at the end of the period, the money is not collected. The “Keep it All” model allows the entity seeking funds to receive all the funds collected minus commission. The second category of crowd funding more closely resembles the conventional version of venture capitalism, with interest bearing loans or an interest in the equity of the company. Be sure to obtain the rules of engagement on a particular site before proceeding. Here are three the most popular money for goods or services, crowd-funding sites.
www.ArtistShare.com
ArtistShare was actually the first of its kind, launching in 2000. ArtistShare created the Internet’s first fan-funding platform for artists and actually holds the patent on crowd
NEWSPAPER LOCATIONS
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September 6 - 12, 2012
funding. With a focus on the arts, fans actually pay a fee for the opportunity to share in the creative process with their favorite artists. Fans can receive special limited edition recordings, VIP access to events or recording sessions and even special mention in the finished product. For years, ArtistShare has been used to fund musicians’ projects. The beauty of the site is that artists maintain ownership of their copyrights. This is a “Keep it All” site. Expect to pay approximately five percent in commission and maybe a processing fee.
www.Kickstarter.com
Launched in 2009, Kick-
ʻMattieuʼs Thank You to the Students of Pacific Grove Middle Schoolʼ is a YouTube video that is part of ʻProject LIGHT Rwanda: A story of heart, healing and humanityʼ featured on the crowd-funding site www.Indiegogo.com. The project includes this appeal: ʻHelp us document a new form of humanitarian aid that supports our worldʼs most traumatized young people to heal, work and lead us into a peaceful future.ʼ starter has grown into one of the most referenced of the crowd funding sites. With mentions by the New York Times and Time Magazine, it also one of the most respected. Kickstarter has a focus on creative projects and funds a wide variety of ventures including: indie films, music, comics, literary projects, video games, and food related projects. This is an “All or Nothing” site and has a 5%
commission. There is an additional fee of 3-5% to Amazon for collecting fees.
www.Indiegogo.com
Indiegogo.com has an interest in three areas: creative, cause and entrepreneurial. Creative includes art, comic, dance, design, fashion, film, gaming, music, photography, theatre, transmedia,
video/web and literary. Cause includes animals, community, education, environment, health, politics and religion. Entrepreneurial includes food, small business, sports and technology. If your business or concept falls into these areas, this may be the place to start. A great feature of the site is the option to choose your crowd-funding category. If you want the flexible funding that is the Keep it All version and you meet your goal, then the commission fee is four percent. If you don’t meet your goal, then the commission fee is nine percent.
However, if you choose the Fixed Funding version, the money is returned to the contributors, if you don’t reach your goal. Also, there is a third party, three percent credit card processing fee. NEXT WEEK: Join us next week as we continue our focus on crowd funding with a look at the venture capital type of funding sites.
(Contact Carlee McCullough, Esq., at 5308 Cottonwood Road, Suite 1A, Memphis, Tenn. 38118, or email her at jstce4all@aol.com.)
RELIGION
Page 6
Tri-State Defender
September 6 - 12, 2012
LIVING THE LIFE I LOVE
Struggling? Make your call, let go and let God
Dear Lucy: I feel as if I have been struggling all my life. No matter what I do, I just seem to survive. My brother, on the other hand thrives. I think I am as smart as he is. but I just can’t seem to ever reach that special stride and keep it up. What can I do? – MJ
Dear MJ: Your letter had more detail than I can share, but you will understand my answer and I believe the answer may help others as well. You make a wise distinction between surviving and thriving. Surviving implies struggle, lack, limitation, strain and not enough. Thriving is about consistency, ease, forward momentum and abundance. They are also different in that they call for differing mindsets. Certainly, there are times when thriving follows a struggle. But for me, those struggles are mostly within me. The struggle is all about my deciding to choose to manage my attitude about what I am going through, what I think and feel about it and my willingness to be patient and suffer
through. Suffering is pretty much the price we pay for all worthwhile accomplishments. But suffering is not so much about pain and disappointment. It is about moving through Lucy an experience Shaw with hope, patience and an expectation of goodness. Change is the nature of life. Many of us desperately want our lives to change and need our lives to change. Yet, the call to participate and embrace change can be too much for some. Its like being the person who wants to have a better lifestyle, more money to spend, more freedoms from debt and fear who refuses to make the necessary personal changes or sacrifices. Maybe this one is too proud to start at the bottom, or too proud to go get another job, or too proud to search
for money to go to school, or doesn’t want to be seen or perceived by others as “struggling.” So, then that person finds himself or herself in a position of anger, resentment and judgment of the one who does make the sacrifices, does the uncomfortable, swallows the pride, eats a little “crow,” bites their tongue, takes low, sweeps the floor, burns the midnight oil, keeps their business and pain to themselves and presses on. Then, one day you look up and there they are thriving. You didn’t see the struggle, so you don’t think there was one. There is no such thing as progress without sacrifice. The nature of change is sacrifice. To get something new in our lives we must be willing to let go of (sacrifice) something that we are holding onto. Maybe it’s an old habit, maybe it’s unforgiveness, maybe it’s appearances, maybe it’s who we used to be, or who we have never been except in our dreams. Maybe it’s just the ability to give up control! Surrender to God requires trust in
the unknown. Except for this one little thing. We can make the unknown known by choosing to believe that God can’t lie. If Jesus was right when He said, “It is the Father’s great pleasure to give you the kingdom,” then today you can choose to believe this. Having made a decision, you can follow up with identifying and claiming your hearts desire. Speak it out loud. And then make an honest appraisal of what it is that you have been unwilling to change, let go of, give up or sacrifice. You don’t have to do it all at once. Just step out on faith and walk as far as your present light will take you. When you get to the edge, God is faithful and there will be some more light. Thriving is a choice available to each of us. There is a host of angels around you just waiting to assist you. They help when you ask but you have to listen and act. There is nothing too great or small to ask for help with. I love that story in the Old Testament (Daniel, Chapter 10) where the
RELIGION BRIEFS Community Fest set for Keel Ave. MBC
Keel Avenue Missionary Baptist Church in collaboration with the Klondike/ Smokey City CDC will host its Sixth Annual Community Fest at the church, 778 N. Bellevue, on Sept. 22, beginning at 11 a.m. The host pastor, the Rev. Robert C. Jones Jr., said the church is on a mission to “take back our community as we provide the ultimate family fun day.” The day will be filled with food, games and activities for all ages, including live Gospel music. Vendors from the health industry, government agencies and private sector will be onsite. The week starts with a revival Sept. 18 – 20. A LOT party is set for Sept. 21, featuring karaoke, games and dance. The festival begins at 11 a.m. the next day, with festivities concluding with Sun-
Bishop Leath at St. Andrew for Mens Day, Sept. 16
When we get together…
Building Service Sunday, initiated by the Rev. Dr. Roosevelt T. Joyner (right), president of the Memphis Baptist Ministerial Association, was observed last Sunday (Sept. 2). Honored were Alvin C. Johnson and Jesse Turner Jr. Also pictured: Vice-Pres. The Rev Luther Williams, along with the dayʼs speaker, the Rev. J.L. Payne. (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)
PRAISE CONNECT
Washington, D.C. – The National Black Church Initiative (NBCI) – a coalition claiming 34,000 AfricanAmerican churches –and its board of directors have ordered security for its president, Rev. Anthony Evans, because of the group’s stance against same-sex marriage. The decision comes after an Aug. 15 shooting at the Family Research Council in Rev. Anthony Evans Washington, D.C. that left a security guard injured. That shooting, said NBCI officials, underscores the violence that has plagued the same-sex marriage debate. The security measures are deemed necessary to protect Evans and the NBCI “stance for Christ and against same-sex marriage.” Rev. Evans is a brave Christian clergy who stands on the Word of God, and we would hate for him to be harmed by the forces of evil that support same-sex marriage,” said Debra ColeyBagley, chair of NBCI’s Board of Directors “We do, however, commend leaders of the gay community who have denounced the shooting of the staff member at the Family Research Council.” According to the NBCI, the coalition spans 15 denominations and represents 15.7 million African Americans.
-A WEEKLY DIRECTORY OF MINISTERS & CHURCHES-
A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. —John 13:34
METROPOLITAN BAPTIST CHURCH
767 Walker Avenue Memphis, TN 38126
ASSOCIATE MINISTERS
ST. ANDREW A.M.E. CHURCH 867 SOUTH PARKWAY EAST Memphis, TN 38106
Dr. Reginald L. Porter Sr., Pastor
901-946-4095 fax 948-8311
(901) 948-3441
Early Morning..........7:45 AM Church School..........9:45 AM Morning Worship......11:00 AM
Rev. Davena Young Porter Rev. Linda A Paige Rev. Luecretia Matthews
Bible Study For Youth and Adults Tuesday - 7:00 PM “Spirit, Soul, and Body!” AM 1070 WDIA Sundays, 10:00-10:30 AM
SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES
SUNDAY Sunday School .....................8:30 am Morning Worship Service ....10:00am WEDNESDAY Bible Study .........................10:30 am Mid-Day Prayer Meeting .....12 noon Evening Prayer Meeting........7:00pm FRIDAY Cable Channel 17 ............... 8:00pm
TV Cable Access Broadcast Tuesdays, 7:30 PM, Channel 17 Website:www.saintandrewamec.org
Dr. & Rev. Mrs. Reginald Porter
THE BLVD Ea s t 6745 Wol f Ri v e r B oule v a r d @ Ki r by Pa r k wa y ( i n t he Cl a rk Ope r a Me mphi s Ce nte r ) Me mp h i s T N 3 8 1 2 0
Dr. Frank A. Thomas Senior Servant
TEMPLE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
WEEKLY SERVICES
Sunday Sunday School 9:00 a.m. Morning Worship 10:30 a.m. Night YPWW 5:00 p.m. Night Service 6:00 p.m. Tuesday Night Prayer 6:00 p.m. Bible Study 7:15 p.m. Wednesday Choir Rehearsal 7:00 p.m. Friday Morning Prayer 9:00 a.m. Night Service 7:30 p.m.
No Telecast Service
— Proverbs 1:7
Dr. David Allen Hall Pastor
“The Founder’s Church”
First Pastor: Senior Bishop C.H. Mason
To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven. —Ecclesiastes 3:1
Greenwood Christian Methodist Episcopal Church 3311 Kimball Ave. Memphis, TN 38111 (901) 744-7531 (901) 744-7664
Worship Services Sunday Sunday School Worship Service
Clarence Kelby Heath Wednesday Pastor
Noon - 1 p.m. 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Child Care Center (901) 948-6441 Monday-Friday 6 AM- 5:30 PM Emergency Food Pantry Rev. Kenneth S. Robinson, Pastor & Clothes Closet Rev. Marilynn S. Robinson, Co-Pastor Wednesday 6 PM-8 PM
“Ministering to Memphis-Spirit, Soul and Body”
672 So. Lauderdale 38126 P.O. Box 314 Memphis, Tn 38101 Phone (General) 774-1572 Pastor: 775-0740 Secretary: 775-1909
BROADCASTS 9:30 a.m. Sunday WDIA - 1070 AM
(Check out Lucy Shaw’s website at http://www.heartworks4u.com. You may send your questions to her by U.S. mail to: Heartworks4U, LLC; 4646 Poplar Ave. Ste 201, Memphis, TN 38117 or by e-mail to lucy@heartworks4u.com.) (For help with the feelings that get in the way of prayer and peace of mind, get Lucy’s new book, “BE NOT ANXIOUS. Order it directly from her at 901-907-0260 or go to her web site www.heartworks4u.com.)
Shooting prompts extra security
day worship at 9 a.m. For more information, call 901-299-2438.
Bishop Jeffrey N. Leath, Sr., M.Div., D.Min., the newly-appointed AME Bishop for Tennessee and Kentucky, will be the guest preacher for Men’s Day at St Andrew AME Church on Sept. 16 at the 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. services. For the last four years, Leath has served as the Presiding Prelate of the 19th Episcopal District of the AME Church, which encompasses seven provinces of the Republic of South Africa. Prior to his episcopal election, the thenRev. Leath served for 15 years as the senior pastor of the historic Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church, the denomination’s founding congregation in Philadelphia, Pa.
angel apologized to Daniel for not getting there right away in answer to his prayer. I have always thought that the angel knew that there were lesser angels watching over Daniel in his absence. And what I really like is how the angel addresses Daniel. He says, “O man greatly beloved....” The angel was bearing testimony of Gods great love for mankind, not just Daniel. So, O man greatly beloved, make your decision, make your call, let go and let God. Lucy
9 a.m. 10:30 a.m.
I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty. —Revelation 1:8
Tri-State Defender
RELIGION
Men’s revival at St. Andrew AME
The Men’s Ministry of St. Andrew AME Church is sponsoring a Church-Wide Revival that began Wednesday (Sept. 5) and ends Friday, with services at 7 each night. Friday, September 7, 2012 at 7 PM nightly. The services will feature the St Andrew Male Chorus and guest male choruses, dancing by Ministry-in-Motion Men and preaching by three “powerful, prophetic pastors.” The preachers
September 6 - 12, 2012
are: Sept. 5. – The Rev. Eric Lee, St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church, Olive Branch, Miss.; Sept 6 – The Rev. Bartholomew Orr, Brown Baptist Church, Southaven,;, Sept 7 – The Rev. Keith Norman, First Baptist Church-Broad. St. Andrew is located at 867 S. Parkway East. The Rev. Kenneth S. Robinson, M.D. is pastor; the Rev. Marilynn S. Robinson, co-pastor; and the Rev. Errol Thomas Jr, M.D., is Minister to Men. Visit Website: www.saintandrewamec.org.
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ENTERTAINMENT UniverSoul Circus
Tri-State Defender, Thursday, September 6 - 12, 2012, Page 8
WHAT’S HAPPENING MYRON?
‘Big Mike’ left us real big memories
I really don’t like doing entertainment-based columns like these, yet I know that they are inevitable. I prefer happy topics such as actors receiving Academy Award nominations, making great movies that Myron touch our hearts or Mays talking about how they traveled a long hard road before making it to the top. No, I don’t like to talk about them becoming ill or passing away. I like to focus on their accomplishments and the way they inspire us. So instead Michael of making this colClarke umn about Michael Duncan Clarke Duncan passing away, I’ll talk a little bit about his accomplishments and a few other things about him that you may not have known. Duncan – ‘Big Mike’ to many – and his sister were raised in Chicago by their mother, the head of single-parent household. Always wanting to act, he enrolled in the communications program at Alcorn State University. When his mother became ill, he dropped out to take care of the family. The jobs that followed included digging ditches for Peoples Gas Company in Chicago, as well as working as a bouncer for various Chicago nightclubs. Along the way, he continued to pursue acting in commercials while working security for various well-known stars such as Will Smith, Martin Lawrence, Jamie Foxx and L.L. Cool J. And check this out: he even worked as a bodyguard for Christopher George Latore Wallace, the late rapper known as the Notorious B.I.G. When B.I.G. was killed, Duncan decided to get out of that line of work. His body of work includes movies such as “The Whole Nine Yards” and “Talladega Nights,” as well as “Sin City” and “Armageddon” with his friend Bruce Willis. It was Willis’ influence that helped him reel in his biggest role – “The Green Mile.” It earned him an Academy Award nomination for the role of “John Coffey.” In “Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins,” he starred with Martin Lawrence. “From the days of him doing security on the ‘Martin’ show to us working together on ‘Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins,’ I enjoyed working with him. He will be missed,” Martin told TMZ. “My condolences go out to his family and loved ones.” Duncan died on Labor Day from complications following a heart attack in July of this year. He was 54 years old. I guess I can call myself “Award Winning Radio Personality” now, right? No, I will remain humble. However, I would like to thank everyone who voted for me to win a Best in Black Award for Best Radio Talk Show Host. I started doing radio at the age of 20 and 18 years later, I’m being recognized for it. Great feeling. Also, thanks to The New TriState Defender President/ Publisher Bernal E. Smith II for creating such a great vehicle to move this city forward. I love Memphis!
Thanks for the love
Southern Heritage Classic weekend is here. The big game between Jackson State University and Tennessee State University begins at 6 p.m. at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium on Saturday (Sept. 8). I expect to see a lot of you there. You can get a head start on the weekend by checking out the Urban Hang Suite at the Tower Room on Friday night. It’s the third anniversary, so it’s gonna be off the chain. For more info, you can look up my friend El Mac or the Urban Hang Suite Memphis on Facebook. It’s also the weekend of my Pre40th birthday party. Join me at “The Venue” this Saturday. Pre-40th? It’s just a flashy way of saying that I’m turning 39, lol. Everyone will be VIP. Just go to the website to get the latest details. Next year, I cross over into the land of “40 Something.” Next week, I’ll be sure to tell you all about it. Until then, that’s what’s happening!
Weekends of weekends!
(Got an event you’d like for me to cover or attend, email me at Myron@whatshappeningmyron.com.)
The acts that thrill the crowds that pack showplaces around the country to see the UniverSoul Circus have changed somewhat over the years. The constant is the fansʼ roaring approval. The 2012 version of the UniverSoul Circus followed suit, leaving fans at the Hickory Ridge Mall well pleased last Sunday (Sept. 2). Facebook and Twitter blew up with reinforcing testaments. The horse act was as spectacular as it was dangerous,
with the performers moving from one side of the horse to the other at very high speeds. Jean Claude, who has been a mainstay in the circus, delivered again with his Aerial Ballet. And the feats of the Chinese acrobatics were spellbinding. Ringmaster Zeke also was back at it, overseeing the Soul Train line that always is a crowd favorite. Crowd participation is a big part of the UniverSoul experience. (Photos by Warren Roseborough)
ENTERTAINMENT
Tri-State Defender
Page 9
September 6 - 12
OPENING THIS WEEK
Kam’s Kapsules:
Weekly Previews That Make Choosing a Film Fun
“For Ellen” (Unrated) Custody drama revolving around an alcoholic, aspiring musician (Paul Dano), locked in a bitter divorce battle, who embarks on a long-distance drive to confront his estranged wife (Margarita Levieva) over his visitation rights regarding their 6 year-old daughter (Shaylena Mandigo). With Jon Heder, Jenna Malone and Dakota Johnson.
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Kam Williams
For movies opening Sept. 7, 2012
BIG BUDGET FILMS
“Bait 3-D” (R for profanity, graphic violence and grisly images) Disaster flick about a group of residents of a beachfront community who find themselves surrounded by a swarm of great white sharks after a tsunami leaves them trapped inside a submerged grocery store. Cast includes Xavier Samuel, Julian McMahon and Phoebe Tonkin.
“The Words” (PG-13 for smoking and brief profanity) Blind ambition is the theme of this emotional drama about a best-selling author (Bradley Cooper) who pays a price for achieving literary success by plagiarizing the work of another writer. Ensemble cast includes Zoe Saldana, Dennis Quaid, J.K. Simmons, Olivia Wilde and Jeremy Irons.
INDEPENDENT & FOREIGN FILMS
“Baby Peggy” (Unrated) Bittersweet retrospective chronicling the rise and fall of Diana Serra Cary, now 93, a Silent Era matinee idol who made millions back in the Twenties as one of Hollywood’s first child stars only to suffer a nervous breakdown after her parents frittered away her entire fortune.
“Bachelorette” (R for sexuality, drug use and pervasive profanity) Raunchy comedy about three members of a clique of mean girls (Kirsten Dunst, Isla Fisher and Lizzy Caplan) asked to serve as bridesmaids at the wedding of a former classmate (Rebel Wilson) they used to tease mercilessly back in high school. With James Marsden, Adam Scott and Kyle Bornheimer.
“Branded” (R for profanity and sexuality) Futuristic sci-fi thriller about one man’s (Ed Stoppard) valiant fight to expose the truth behind a mammoth corporate conspiracy to keep humanity disillusioned, dependent and passive via mind control. With Leelee Sobieski, Jeffrey Tambor and Max von Sydow.
“Brawler” (R for profanity, sexuality, drug use and graphic violence) Sibling rivalry saga about a couple of brothers who agree to settle
‘Tonya Dyson, Live’
I Am Soul Media presents “Tonya Dyson, Live at B.B Kings” on Sunday (Sept. 9). The highly anticipated “I Am Soul” project featuring Dyson, is a free event
“The Eye of the Storm” (Unrated) Assisted suicide flashback flick, set in Sydney, surrounding the last days of a terminally-ill, family matriarch (Charlotte Rampling) determined to die on her own terms rather than face relocation to a nursing home. Featuring Geoffrey Rush, Judy Davis and Helen Morse.
their differences in the ring in a death match at an underground fight club after one (Nathan Grubbs) catches the other (Marc Senter) cheating with his wife (Pell James). Supporting cast includes Michael Bowen, Bryan Batt and Megan Henning.
“The Cold Light of Day” (PG-13 for profanity and sexuality) Political potboiler about a San Francisco businessman (Henry Cavill) whose family is abducted while vacationing in Spain by kidnappers demanding he hand over a briefcase he knows nothing about. With Bruce Willis, Sigourney Weaver and Roschdy Zem. (In English and Spanish with subtitles) “Desperate Endeavors” (PG-13 for sexual references) Overcoming-the-odds drama, set in 1973, following an Indian immigrant’s (Ismail Bashey) dogged pursuit of the American Dream in New York City. Featuring Gulshan Grover, Lavrenti Lopes and Deborah Green.
“Detropia” (Unrated) Dire documentary from Oscar-nominated co-directors Heidi Ewing and Rachel Grady (for Jesus Camp) painting a simultaneously surrealistic and sobering picture of Detroit suggesting that the host of woes visited upon the Motor City might be coming soon to a town near you. to be held at B.B. Kings on Beale Street from 5:30 p.m. until 8 p.m. Doors open at 5 p.m. Reserve a free ticket for the live taping at: http://iamsoul. eventbrite.com/. “I AM SOUL” is a contemporary exploration of soul music. There will be filming
“Hello, I Must Be Going” (R for profanity and sexuality) Romantic dramedy about a depressed divorcee (Melanie Lynskey) who moves in with her parents (Blythe Danner and John Rubenstein) in suburban Connecticut where she’s soon revitalized by an affair with an awkward teen (Johnathan Abbott) half her age. Support cast includes Julie White, Andrea Bordeaux and Sara Chase. “The Inbetweeners” (R for coarse humor, graphic sexuality, frontal nudity, profanity and drug and alcohol abuse) Teensploitation comedy based on the British TV series of the same name examining the rowdy exploits of a quartet of high school grads (Simon Bird, James Buckley, Blake Harrison and Joe Thomas) vacationing in Crete. With Emily Head, Laura Haddock, Tamla Kari and Jessica Knappett.
“Keep the Lights on” (Unrated) Homoerotic drama about the tensions which develop between a gay filmmaker (Thure Lindhart) and a lawyer still in the closet (Zachary Booth) when their fling unexpectedly blossoms into love. Ensemble includes Julianne Nicholson, Paprika Steen and Souleymanne Sy Savane. “Serving Up Richard” (Unrated) Cannibal-themed horror flick about a married couple (Susan Priver and Jude Ciccolella) with a taste for human flesh who get more than they bargained for when they set they start salivating over a guy (Ross McCall) answering their classified ad for a used car. With Brian Burke, Adam Kulbersh and Darby Stanchfield. for a live concert. For more information, contact Antoine Dandridge at iamsoul.media@gmail.com or call 901-827-3698. Information also available at http://iamsoul.eventbrite.com/; http://neosoulville.com
HOROSCOPES
Sept. 6-12, 2012
ARIES Do not travel in the company of those who work against you. Move towards people with words of encouragement and an extended hand. Release the grudge that you have for someone who betrayed you. You will find liberation and lightheartedness in forgiving. Follow your heart when it comes to a love interest. TAURUS Stay adaptable, and all will be fine. Flexibility is easy for you when you want it to be. The situation you’ll face this week will require that you alter your way of thinking about someone with whom you’re involved in business or friendship. GEMINI Modesty doesn’t mean cowardly. It can mean gracious. Let a friend have the credit for something that you did. Be cool. It’s good exercise. The people you want to impress this week will be more impressed by your graciousness. CANCER Give birth to some new impulses about love. The ones you’ve been using have led you to a place you do not wish to be. Give yourself a break. Change. Be less critical. Accept love even from those you do not completely agree with. LEO Be modest! Don’t just be smug and cool about your greatness. This week get in touch with your limitations and acknowledge them. You’re not doing it in order to fix anything. You’re just enlarging your capacity for self-acceptance. VIRGO This could turn out to be the most argumentfilled week you’ve had for a while. Your feelings could be deeply hurt if you try to force your sense of rightness off on anyone else. Remember that in the past when people were cantankerous you could find pleasure in nature, or animals. LIBRA Your good will and intentions towards others will reap you an inheritance of abundance and wealth. You will be blessed with many good wishes and enjoy them in the company of family and friends. SCORPIO Your dignity and composure is a sure asset. Be Mr. or Ms. Cool Breeze. In touchy situations you have the ability to maintain a high level of emotional balance and a calm disposition. Use these qualities to the fullest. You have the know-how to re-direct negative feelings into a positive solution. SAGITTARIUS Start this week to make a difference for tomorrow. You can determine the prosperity of your future by making difficult decisions in the present. Rearrange your priorities and decide what are the important things to you. Make a list. Write them down and act on it now! CAPRICORN 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. AQUARIUS 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. Remain truly confident that things will come out in a way that will satisfy you. PISCES Move through your social environments and festive occasions this week without stopping even for a little while to listen to rumors. Rumors are often untrue. And for goodness sake believe only good things about friends and your lover. Source: NNPA News Service
Page 10
SPORTS
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Jordan Devey delivers a bruising block to protect University of Memphis teammate and starter, running back Jerrell Rhodes.
Tigers could use a kick-start Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by J.R. Moorhead
Over 39,000 fans filled the stands last Saturday (Sept. 1) to get their first glimpse of the newly renovated Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium and the 2012 Memphis Tigers football team. Halfway through the third quarter, however, this first take was cut short for many because of a storm front that rolled through bringing lightening that forced a 90minute delay. That’s not to say the entertainment stopped. With field security in hot pursuit, many students took turns running onto the field and sliding head first across the Memphis emblem at the fifty-yard line. Luckily for the students, the guards were doing a bunch more chasing, than catching. Unfortunately, after the game finally got started again, the fun was all but over for the fans and the Tigers. Memphis was leading 10-7 when the storm hit, but UT-Martin wasn’t ready to give up. The Skyhawks scored on their first possession taking a14-10 lead. Memphis’ offense stalled for much of the rest of the game. The Tigers went three and out more often than not, while the Skyhawks continued to drive down the field. Memphis was able to stay in the
CLASSIFIEDS
Tri-State Defender
September 6 - 12, 2012
game because UT-Martin had an early problem with converting fieldgoal attempts. Twice the Skyhawks’ kicker, Cody Sandlin, missed the mark, and a fumbled snap led to another botched opportunity. With the game on the line the fourth quarter with the game on the line, Sandlin came through for the Skyhawks to grow the lead to 17-10. This must have woken the Tigers up a bit, as they responded by driving right back down the field to score a touchdown and tie the game, 17-17. On the next series, Memphis managed to hold UT-Martin to a punt and the Tigers were poised to get the ball back with about 30 seconds remaining in the game. The True Blue fans that stayed through the storm delays thought they might get a chance to see some late-game heroics from the home team. Would the Tigers be able to get a good return and get into field goal range, or connect on a lastsecond Hail Mary pass? The stage was almost set. Then tragedy struck. The Memphis return man fumbled the punt and UT-Martin recovered the ball on the Memphis 26-yard line. The Skyhawks would now have a 43-yard field goal to win the game. Knowing 43-yards isn’t a chip shot, and having seen the opposing kicker already miss two field goals from shorter distances, Memphis
fans were hopeful. Much to their dismay, Sandlin put it right through the uprights and Memphis was saddled with its first loss of the season. This is definitely not how the Tigers and new head coach Justin Fuente wanted to begin the new era. “I think that people have to understand where we are at and what we took over,” Fuente has said. “I have not made crazy promises and outlandish guarantees.” Point well taken but here’s the thing: Sure, the Tigers only won three games over the last two years. Fans realize that and they aren’t expecting miracles, but losing to UTMartin at home is unacceptable. They aren’t even in a conference as large as C-USA. If Memphis can’t even beat teams from lesser conferences, how are they going to compete in the Big East? Fuente was brought here to change things for the better and losing last Saturday was a big step in the wrong direction. Looking forward, Memphis heads to Jonesboro this Saturday (Sept. 8) to take on the Arkansas State Red Wolves. Tiger fans will look to see how Memphis responds after the opening-game disappointment. It isn’t going to get any easier for the Tigers this year, and if they don’t rebound this weekend, it could be a long season.
University of Tennessee-Martin player Quentin Simms gets shut down by Bobby McCain. (Photos by Warren Roseborough)
ALL INTERESTED BIDDERS The Board of Education of the Memphis City Schools District will accept, Request for Proposal for Cordova High School- Lighting Upgrade. Visit our website for additional information: http://www.mcsk12.net/ aboutmcs_procurements_bids.asp Questions concerning submission of this proposal should be addressed to Rennaʼ Green (901) 416-5833 or emailed to greenr@mcsk12.net. Thank you for supporting Memphis City Schools. Jacqueline Saunders, Director Memphis City Schools – Procurement Services LEGAL NOTICE TO BIDDERS DeWitt Spain Airport – Parking & Fencing Improvements – Construction GENERAL DEWITT SPAIN AIRPORT 2787 North Second Street Memphis, Tennessee 38127 MSCAA Project Number 10-1318-01 Sealed bids for the DeWitt Spain Airport – Parking & Fencing Improvements – Construction, MSCAA Project No. 10-1318-01, will be received by the Staff Services Division of the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority (MSCAA), 3505 Tchulahoma Road, Memphis, Tennessee 38118, until 2:00 PM Local Time on Thursday, October 4, 2012, and immediately thereafter will be opened and publicly read. BIDS WILL NOT BE RECEIVED AT ANY OTHER LOCATION. The scope of work generally consists of parking lot and fencing improvements at the General DeWitt Spain Airport. Work efforts include, but are not necessarily limited to, pavement milling, pavement overlay, asphalt paving, concrete sidewalk replacement, fence and gate removal, fence and gate installation, electrical, earthwork, construction surveying, pavement markings, traffic control, erosion and sediment control, landscaping and irrigation, signage, and other efforts as required. Bid Documents may be obtained and found on our website (www.mscaa.com) on or after Monday, September 10, 2012. 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). All Respondents are hereby notified that all updates, addenda and additional information, if any, shall be posted to the MSCAA website and Respondents are responsible for checking the MSCAA website up to the time of the Bid opening. A Pre-Bid Meeting will be held Wednesday, September 19, 2012, at 9:00 AM at
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the General DeWitt Spain Airport, 2787 North Second Street, Memphis, Tennessee 38127. The project site will be available for inspection immediately following the meeting. The MSCAA, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C. 2000d to 2000d-4a and Title 49, Part 26, Code of Federal Regulations, Department of Transportation, Subtitle A, Office of the Secretary, Part 21, Nondiscrimination in Federally Assisted Programs of the Department of Transportation issued pursuant to such Act hereby notifies all Bidders that it will affirmatively ensure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, Disadvantaged, Minority and Women Business Enterprises (D/M/WBEs) will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of age, race, sex, color, national origin, creed, religion, sexual orientation or disability in its hiring and employment practices, or in admission to, access to, or operation of its programs, services and activities. The D/M/WBE participation goal for this contract is 33% in accordance with the requirements of the Contract Documents. Each bid must be by a contractor licensed in Tennessee and accompanied by a 5% Bid Guarantee. In accordance with TCA §62-6-119, the Bidder, and where applicable, one contractor/subcontractor performing electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, or masonry work must have its license number, expiration date of the license, and that part of the classification applying to the bid shown on the outside of the envelope containing the bid. Failure to supply all information on the outside of the envelope will result in the return of the unopened envelope to the Bidder. The successful Bidder will be required to execute a Performance Bond and a Payment Bond, each in the amount of 100% of the Contract Price. Liquidated damages for delay in contract completion shall be as stated in the Contract Documents. No Bidder may withdraw an opened bid within the defined period following actual bid opening without MSCAAʼs consent. Award will be made to the lowest and best responsible qualified Bidder, if any contract is awarded. MSCAA reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive any informalities, technicalities or omissions therein. MSCAA also reserves the right to reject bids from bidders that have pending litigation or claims with MSCAA, or if such bid includes a proposed subcontractor or supplier that has pending litigation or claims with MSCAA, if MSCAA determines, in its sole discretion, such litigation or claims may adversely affect the ability of the parties to work efficiently and effectively under this contract, or for any other reason as determined by MSCAA. Any such bid will be returned to the bidder. See Instructions to Bidders in the project specifications for a further description of this and other reservations of rights. MEMPHIS-SHELBY COUNTY AIRPORT AUTHORITY By Larry D. Cox, President & CEO
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CHEF TIMOTHY
Do what is required to stay healthy; don’t overeat
The obesity rate in America is at an all-time high, costing too many lives and threatening others on the periphery of weight gain. To put it plainly, obesity is not just unhealthy, it’s life threatening. We as a people, as a nation, are digging our own grave with relative ease and less thought about survival. Who is to blame for this run-away health Dr. Timothy problem? The tens of thousands who refuse to Moore take obesity seriously. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than one-third (35.7 percent) of the U.S. adult population is obese, which, in nearly all cases, leads to type II diabetes, stroke, heart disease, cancer and other chronic diseases. The medical costs associated with being obese is estimated at $147 billion dollars. The staggering price tag is based on figures reported by the CDC in 2008. Looking forward, the dollar amount most likely will increase due to our unregulated dietary eating patterns. Obesity affects all groups. It does not discriminate based on color, demographics and economics – unless you’re in the group that can’t afford to buy the kind of food that helps lower your risk of obesity. For example, it is clearly evident that neighborhood grocery stores and convenience stores tend to stock certain food items based on the economics of the shopper. Poor shoppers, predominately African Americans, are less likely to bag the choicest meats, fruits and vegetables. You’ll find their carts filled with non-essentials such as moon pies, pickled pig’s feet, Roman noodles and other foods that are devoid of essential nutrients. There is a market for unhealthy foods and there is one for healthy foods. In most cases it depends on what you can afford to buy, regardless of the health benefits or lack thereof. Case in point: an Apple costs $1.49 compared to a 99-cent bag of potato chips. The apple costs more and is healthier for you, whereas the chips are cheaper but loaded with saturated fats, sodium and other unhealthy ingredients. I have said all along that obesity is preventable if one chooses to switch to a plantbased diet. In doing so, it will help the body rid itself of toxins, saturated fats and plaque, which attaches itself to arteries. The CDC backs me on this with statistics and this statement: eating a plant-based diet prevents and reverses some health-related issues. If the answer to weight-loss is as plain as the nose on our faces, then why is it so hard to lose the weight and keep it off? It’s the way our food is prepared, plain and simple. Food is prepared so quickly nowadays until basic nutrients are sacrificed. We are a microwave society. Everything is prepared in two-second intervals. If it’s longer, we tend to squirm. There is no simple solution or quick fix to losing weight. Diet fads don’t work. Like a yoyo, you’re up and down. If you’re serious about losing weight and keeping it off, you must make the necessary changes in your life to avoid the onset of diabetes, cancer, fibromyalgia, lupus, high blood pressure and other debilitating diseases. Don’t be a glutton. Gluttony is a dangerous thing. Eating the wrong food, particularly the ones with little or no nutritional value, can wreak havoc in the body. Change won’t come overnight, however. But if you are serious, make the first step toward health and wellness. There will be some struggles, frustration and disappointments if you’re trying to shed the weight. I’m sure you didn’t just get there overnight. It takes time to undo years of overeating, learn to select the right nutritious food to eat and relearn good eating habits. But remember, obesity can be prevented if you eat the right food, exercise, drink plenty of water and change your lifestyle. Dietary changes are not as complicated as they seem. You can survive on a plantbased diet without eating any animal products, including sweets, which are known to cause any number of health problems. It’s not as complicated as you may think. The only person you have to convince is yourself. If you’re able to do that, you’re on your way to becoming the person you want to be. Don’t be alarmed if your weight doesn’t change as fast as you want it to. Just remember, you’re doing what’s required to stay healthy and happy in life.
(Dr. Timothy Moore teaches nutrition, heart disease and diabetes reversal through a plant-based lifestyle. He is a professional speaker, wellness coach and personal plant-based chef. He is the author of “47 Tips To Reverse Your Diabetes” and “Vegans Eat What.” He can be reached by email at cheftimothy@cheftimothymoore.com, visit him at www.cheftimothymoore.com or follow him at www.twitter.com/cheftimmoore.)
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Dedication yields recognition for NAACP membership workers The success of the NAACP depends not only on services the civil rights organization renders for its constituents, but on the membership within its organization and those newly recruited. “Our ability to speak on behalf of this community depends upon the members we bring into this organization,” said Madeleine C. Taylor, executive director of the Memphis Branch NAACP. “This task has been assigned to a number of dedicated membership workers who regularly solicit NAACP memberships from their family, church, social and civic organizations.” Taylor acknowledged during the organization’s regular branch meeting (Aug. 26) at Mt. Olive CME Church that a number of individuals were being recognized for making annual contributions to the “lifeblood” of the organization. These individuals, who are called “membership workers,” submitted $1,000 or more in memberships and were honored with the Million Dollar Medallion for their work between July 2011 and June 2012, Taylor said. The honored workers were: Barbara Alston, Mattie Anderson, Billie Ballentine, Debra Brown, Lindsey Burgess, M.P. Carter, Juanita Chambers, Barbara Davis, Dr. Warner Dickerson, V. Lynn Evans, Megan Ford, Donna Graves, Stephanie Greer, April Higgenbottom, Dorothy Johnson, Emori Loving, William McChriston, II, Victoria Neal, Alfreda Payne, Charlie Mae Reed, Barbara T. Scott, Ann Smith, Maxine A. Smith, Clayborne Taylor, Madeleine C. Taylor, Johnnie R. Turner, Macelle Turner, Ruby Wharton, Ruby Wilkerson, Ethel Jean Williamson and Marica Wright. Youth members recognized were represented by their parents because they have left for college). Thirteen membership workers also were honored for soliciting 100 memberships or more during the past year. They were Barbara Alston,
Seated from left: Mattie Anderson, Debra Brown, representing Lindsey Burgess, M.P. Carter, Alfreda Payne, Ann Smith, and Clayborne Taylor, representing Marcia Wright. Standing from left: Dr. Warner Dickerson, branch president, Marcelle Turner, Ruby Wilkerson, Barbara T. Scott, representing April Higginbottom, and Madeleine C. Taylor, executive director. Lindsey Burgess, April Higgenbottom, Dorothy Johnson, William McChriston, III, Victoria Neal, Barbara T. Scott, Maxine A. Smith, Johnnie R. Turner, Macelle Turner, Ruby Wharton and Ruby Wilkerson. During the branch meeting, Taylor spoke appreciatively about the honorees for making Memphis the largest branch in the country. Houston has the second largest branch in the country followed by the branch in Detroit The branch’s Memphis Youth Council was recognized at the recent National NAACP Convention for being the largest Youth Council in
the nation. Leaders of the NAACP Membership committee, Barbara T. Scott and Janice Frazier Scott, presented membership plaques to the members who completed their life membership commitment. The celebration concluded with the kickoff of the fall membership campaign, and thus began the community appeal for annual adult memberships for $30 and youth memberships for $10. Commitments to the NAACP can be renewed online at www.NAACPMemphis.com or by contacting the Memphis Branch NAACP at 901-521-1343.
Well-wishes were plentiful as John Fowlkes Jr. was sworn in as U.S. District Court. (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)
Judge Fowlkes takes federal seat Long-time friends, loved ones, city officials, and judges were on hand last Friday when Chief U.S. Dist. Judge Jon McCalla administered the judicial oath to newly appointed U.S. Dist. Judge John Fowlkes Jr. After serving five years on the Criminal Court bench, Fowlkes was appointed by President Barack Obama last year and confirmed by the U.S. Senate to fill the
vacancy left when Judge Bernice Donald was tapped to serve on the U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals. Memphis Mayor AC Wharton Jr. joined those gathered in the Memphis City Council chambers Friday afternoon. U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen nominated Fowlkes, submitting his name to the President, once Judge Donald’s seat was officially vacated.
Fowlkes, 61, was welcomed to the federal bench by his new colleagues. Among loved ones present were: Michelle Fowlkes, his wife of 40 years; sons, Denari Fowlkes and Andre’ Fowlkes; and his 90-year-old father, John Fowlkes Sr. Flag colors were presented by Boy Scout Troop 34, which included Judge Fowlkes’ grandson.
Karate taking hold at Orange Mound center
First tournament brings rewards Special to The New Tri-State Defender
by Tracy Sow
Two years of hard work, practicing twice a week and learning the ancient Japanese discipline of Shotokan paid off for Orange Mound Community Center students of the Gunn’s Karate- Do. Orange Mound Community Center’s director, Kristine Strickland, instructor Marcellus Gunn, students and proud parents traveled to their first karate tournament in Greenwood, Miss., winning an impressive total of: 10 first places, 5 second place, a third-place and the Grand Champion. Every Tuesday and Friday, you can hear the
Karate classes are free and held every Tuesday and Friday at 6 p.m. for beginners at the Orange Mound Community Center. (Courtesy photo) Japanese language ringing through the Orange Mound Community Center as instructor Gunn prepares his students for competition. The workouts are rigorous, while the techniques require concentration, determination and dedication. Gunn said this level of commitment builds strong physical and mental discipline, boosting confidence in his students who range from age
six to over forty. Instructor Gunn extends an open invitation to those of all ages with any skill level to join his class. All you must have is a will and loose fitting work out clothing. Classes are free and held every Tuesday and Friday at 6 p.m. for beginners at the Orange Mound Community Center.
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Tri-State Defender