9 3 2014

VOL. 63, No. 34

www.tsdmemphis.com

August 28 - September 3, 2014

Christensen set to be U.S. first Black female governor

Are PILOTS beneficial to taxpayers?

COMMENTARY

by James Wright Special to the New Tri-State Defender from the NNPA

The United States has never had a Black female as the governor of a state-level jurisdiction but that could change in the November general election.

U.S. Virgin Islands Del. Donna Christensen (D) is Donna well on her way Christensen to becoming the governor of her territory. She and Basil Ottley Jr. won the crowded Aug. 2 Democratic Party primary for governor and lieutenant governor, respectively, and because of the strength of the party, will face minor opposition from the island’s other political parties in the Nov. 4 general election.

Christensen was delighted to win her latest political battle. “I am pleased to have the nomination of the Democratic Party and I invite all of my fellow Democrats to work together with me to ensure victory in November,” Christensen, 68, said.

“We have a lot of work to do; our people expect that we will have a common vision and a plan to move our territory forward.”

Christensen has been the delegate from the Virgin Islands since 1997.

Before her election to Congress, she practiced family medicine for 21 years and held other political offices in the territory.

The delegate earned her bachelor’s degree from St. Mary’s College in Notre Dame, Ind. in 1966 and her medical degree from the George Washington University in the District in 1970. She did her residency at Howard University Medical Center from 1973-74.

While African-American females have served as lieutenant governors of such states as Ohio and Florida, no Black female has mounted a serious bid to lead a state.

The Virgin Islands has a population of 106,405 and is 76 percent Black.

The residents are United States citizens but cannot vote in presidential elections even though they can participate in the Democratic and Republican party activities.

As a delegate like the District’s representative Eleanor Holmes Norton (D), Christensen cannot vote on the floor of the House but is allowed to fully participate in committee activities, party caucuses and to gain seniority based on years of service.

Christensen, who is serving her ninth term, is the first female physician to serve in the U.S. Congress, the first woman delegate from the Virgin Islands and the first woman to represent an offshore territory.

In the House Democratic Caucus, she served as an assistant minority whip. As an active member of the Congressional Black Caucus, Christensen chairs the Health Braintrust which is the focal point of the organization’s stands on health issues affecting the country’s Black citizens.

In her quest to lead the Virgin IsSEE CHRISTENSEN ON PAGE 2

MEMPHIS WEEKEND FRIDAY

H-95o - L-73o Mostly Sunny

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

H-91o - L-72o H-91o - L-73o Scattered T. Storm Scattered T. Storm

REGIONAL TEMPS LITTLE ROCK NASHVILLE JACKSON, MS

Friday H-93 L-73 H-92 L-70 H-94 L-73

Saturday H-91 L-73 H-90 L-71 H-90 L-73

Sunday H-90 L-73 H-85 L-68 H-91 L-72

75 Cents

Preachers look for answers from Wharton and a team from the Regional Chamber of Commerce

by Tony Jones Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Eel Etc., owned by James Clark, is the longest operating business on Beale St. In business since 1982, the store representa a positive example of how great customer service can yield positive results. (Photos: Gary Whitlow)

Cover charge not the answer to Beale St. challenges Publisher’s “Evening on Beale” reveals real problems and possible answers

by Bernal E. Smith II besmith@tsdmemphis.com

A recent night in the life of a Beale Street business-owner turned patron evolved into a dreadful experience.

Bad customer service coupled with an entrance fee on a public street dampened the mood for my visitors and me on Saturday night (Aug. 23).

On any given week I spend at least 50-60 hours a week in and around my office on Beale Street – 203 Beale, Suite 200 to be exact. I seldom use my entertainment time or dollars in what is arguably Memphis’ most visited entertainment district.

However, this weekend was an exception.

Following the Memphis Urban League Young Professionals’ Mixology event, a group of out of town visitors decided to venture downtown to Beale Street. I agreed to join them and generally host them in my backyard.

I first encountered a “rude-for-noreason” attendant at the parking garage; the same garage at which I pay monthly parking for myself and my staff. After showing my monthly card she subsequently lowered the parking arm down to scan my card only to put the arm back up in order to verify my parking validity. I then paid ten dollars for one of the guests and received a “mean mug” for my troubles.

After parking and walking over to Beale, we encountered a group of security officers manning the entrance gates. We were quickly informed it would be ten dollars to enter the street. After engaging in conversation with the officers about the charge, I discovered they even were not clear about the reason or necessity of it.

Their answers included “to help pay for additional security”, “to supplement the merchants revenues”, “to pay for additional police presence”, and finally “it don’t matter, we are just collecting and you have to pay!”

We collectively looked around and noticed the sparseness of the crowd.

After being frisked and scanned for weapons, we proceeded to our destination to meet other guests from Birmingham, New Orleans and other cities. The establishment will remain nameless as I refuse to give it any publicity given the treatment we received.

We approached the door and I very

BEST IN BLACK AWARDS

Sweetie Pies on Beale St. is expected to open soon. politely informed the security officer that we were there to meet our party.

In turn his response was, “I just spoke with the boss and he said we are closed and no one else gets in!”

Maintaining my calmness I replied, “Sir, we are simply down here to join our group. I am sure that if you go inside and speak with your ‘boss’ it won’t be an issue.” He refused and became indignant going into a spiel about his five kids and his need to keep his job.

I ultimately called our out of town visitors and asked them to speak to the manager but after another fifteen or twenty minutes passed with no action we gave up. We left and ventured down further to determine how we might make the most of our forty dollar investment. At this point we had partaken in nominal conversation with security, been frisked, received red wrist bands, argued with another security guard and left outside an establishment while being subjected to subpar treatment and SERVICE. Attempting to salvage what was left of the evening I said, "Hey let me at least take you guys to experience some Memphis cuisine at another restaurant (that will also remain nameless).” To say the least, that visit required a discussion with the manager and no tip was left for the woman impersonating a server.

Maybe my expectations are too high. Generally whenever and wher-

ever I choose to spend my money, I expect to be treated with a base level of respect, dignity and appreciation.

Considering that my money and patronage goes to ensure that businesses can pay their bills and hopefully make a profit it deserves some level of respect.

The most disheartening aspect of our experience and the most shameful for the city and the entertainment district is the thought that others particularly “out- of- towners” or “in-towners” who may want to give Beale a try – may have the same or a worse experience.

The number one problem on Beale Street is the general absence of a positive culture of customer service - one that nurtures customers (those spending money and with the potential to spend money) with appreciation and celebration. The other primary factor is that the leadership of this community has failed to maintain, develop or attract positive entertainment options for young people so their default option is to go where they can be around lights, music and crowds. Riddle: What place in Memphis best fits that description? I’ll give you a hint. It starts with Beale and ends with Street.

A lack of creativity and commitment by those in leadership led to a knee-jerk reaction that appears at SEE BEALE ON PAGE 3

The ‘real’ Muhammad Ali

Mayor AC Wharton joined the city’s lead team in pushing the much criticized PILOT (Payment In Lieu Of Taxes) program for a meeting at the Memphis Baptist Ministerial Association (MBMA) on Tuesday, Aug. 26 to give a presentation answering one of the most polarizing questions the administration faces: What is the value of the PILOT program and is it being overused?

“That’s why we wanted to have this meeting,” says the Rev. Dwight Montgomery, MBMA organizer for the meeting. “We need this information. There is a great concern that taxpayers are being shortchanged for the sake of profit making and it is very critical that our congregations and the public at large understand what PILOTs are and if they have any real benefit for taxpayers.”

Three entities have the authority to grant PILOTs for the City of Memphis: EDGE (EDGE/Economic Development Growth Engine); CCFRC (Center City Revenue Finance Corporation-Downtown Memphis Commission); HEHFBM (Health, Educational and Housing Facilities Board of Memphis). EDGE is the one that goes after the largest projects such as the Mitsubishi Electric plant opened here last year.

Arlington, Barlett, Collierville, Germantown and Millington also have their own PILOT granting entities, joined by the Health, Educational and Housing Facility Board of Shelby County.

Making the case for the PILOT program was Reid Dulberger, CEO and President of EDGE (Economic Development Growth Engine), who serves as the chief economic development officer for Memphis and Shelby County.

His in-depth presentation was bolstered by a key report on diversity aims for the program by Atty. Carlee McCullough, who serves as a diversity consultant for the EDGE program. (Also a business columnist for The New Tri-State Defender, McCullough wrote about PILOTs in the last week’s issue.)

Dulberger says he understands why the programs are heavily criticized, but says the public must accept the reality that without the PILOTs, the city cannot compete in drawing industry.

“We lost 41,000 private sector jobs between 2006 and 2010—about one in 11 private sector jobs. We made back about a quarter of those, so we’re still down about 30,000 private sector jobs. In the early part of the century we (Memphis and Shelby County) were more productive than the rest of the country, now we are not. We need the PILOTs to compete.

Virtually all of the projects we try to bring here are looking for incentives.”

Point by point he began to make his case. “All you hear is the PILOT progam, the PILOT program, but other cities have gone well beyond it, and it’s really the only tool we have.”

The presentation reached a highlight early when Dulberger showed a commercial touting the attributes of the city of Memphis. Listing the intermodal rail, air, ground and river logistics system, he touted Memphis as being able to outperform “anyplace else.” Then he dropped an ironic bomb; it was offered as a sales pitch for Desoto County, adding that it’s task base gave it an advantage over the Bluff City.

Arkansas also blows the same trumpet, as do many others, Dulberger explained.

“All those investments we are justifiably proud of, have worked so hard on and have spent so much on, others share as well,” Dulberger added. “In the good old days, companies looked exclusively at Memphis. That is no SEE PILOTS ON PAGE 2

Convoy of Hope expects to feed more than 8,000

Cook Convention Center, Aug. 30, 7 P.M.

The ‘champs’ former wife and new documentary reveal complexities of Ali’s battles outside the ring.

The Christian organization is on a mission

www.bestinblackawards.com

See Entertainment, page 7

See Community, page 9

Page 2

August 28 - September 3, 2014

Tri-State Defender

NEWS

PILOTs touted as potential growth tool for black businesses

by Tony Jones Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Mayor AC Wharton says he hopes the churches represented at the Memphis Baptist Ministerial Association meeting Tuesday to discuss the city’s PILOT program will schedule private presentations for their churches to expose the facts about the program to more MWBE (Minority and Women Owned Business) owners.

The commonly touted figure for black business revenue generation in Memphis is less than 1 percent. PILOTs may have to be part of the mix if this figure is to grow.

“That’s why we came here with the ministers, just to present the information,” Wharton said. “Not in an arrogant manner, or to push it anyone in an arrogant manner or as if they cannot understand. You have to be patient and thorough, let the information speak for itself and let people make up their own minds.”

Making the case for the potential PILOTs was Atty. Carlee McCullough, whose duty is to oversee fair inclusion for PILOT candidates.

“We’re after 100 percent total commitment,” she told the group. “It is an absolute requirement that you have a diversity plan attached to your application.”

The presentation stated that $353 million

PILOTS CONTINUED FROM FRONT longer true today. The truth is, for better or worse, we are a region.”

“I’ve just returned from a meeting in the eastern part of the state to sell the point that the cities of Tennessee have to become more unified,” Wharton expanded. “Chattanooga has to fight with Georgia and Alabama every day.

Johnson City has to fight with Virginia and North Carolina. Tennessee is bordered by eight states with better tax structures than we do that are constantly looking at us and wondering what they can steal (business wise) from Tennessee.

Right now the discussion is about Memphis, but it’s going to be happening all around the state.”

National competition must also be factored in.

A detailed handout presented at the meeting included history of recent projects Memphis has competed for and lost to cities as far flung as Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (Urban Outfitters, 2,500 jobs, 10 state and local tax abatement) and Mesa, Arizona (Apple & GT Advanced Glass Factory for Electronic Devices-700 jobs, $10 million investment, 74 percent city and county tax abatement).

It gets deeper. New York’s Start Up New York campaign offers an incentive model knocking off all taxes for ten years, and even includes tax incentives for employees of companies that locate there, and Texas has a billion dollar fund devoted exclusively to closing deals.

Among the successes he touted were Taylor Maintenance, a repair service for intermodal equipment, for whom Dulberger credits local businesswoman Carolyn Hardy as bringing to the table. The company bought a vacant piece of land generating $1,200 in property taxes annually, according to Delburger. “They have hired 90-plus people at almost $35,000 a year.

gained by local MWBE’s “is a real number,” she said, “and we have a consultant that performs an audit to ensure that the companies receiving PILOTs do what they have stated in writing in offering opportunities. We are looking for a minimum of 25 percent; so the expectation is real.”

Another plus is that the Workforce Investment Network is to be utilized as a labor pool to help fill the positions needed, which she said could be a real boon for the underemployed.

After scrolling through a list of MWBE’s that have received direct or indirect benefits from PILOTs, McCullough introduced Curtis Salton, owner of Artisan Construction.

“When we hear about the PILOT program, all you hear about is what they do for big businesses,” he outlined. “But what they really do is marry big businesses with local, small business like my own. Like Electrolux, an international company. More than 100 locally owned small businesses were brought in by them as feeder companies. Those local companies hired people. I’ve picked up work from PILOTs with International Paper and Ingersoll-Rand. I’ve had to hire 40 new employees to service the contracts.”

Wharton says another real plus is, Electrolux is now moving its feeder companies here and expects the same feeder line to be duplicated by Mitsubishi.

That’s a plus when there was only a hole there.”

A similar example is the firm ABF near the airport. Based in Arkansas, Dulberger says the PILOT incentives will help gain 283 jobs. “And they agreed to do a job fair in the Alcy-BallCastalia area. That’s a perfect example of corporate citizenship.”

Another strong example he said was when the news that the Smucker’s plant in Memphis was planning on leaving, but were eventually convinced to stay due in part to the PILOT program.

“It’s not just the abatement that has impact. The property tax (abatement) was only a small part of the revenue these projects generate. They pay sales taxes, vehicle fees, licensing fees, they hire people that pay taxes, they contract in the community. We do an analysis of each PILOT to see the total impact. Property tax is just a small part of the total benefit the city and county gets out of these projects.”

The bottom line results are, “The program makes money for the city and the county,” says Dulberger. “For every $1 in tax abatements, we generated about $2.48 in tax benefits. The projects we have approved have accounted for about 7,000 direct and indirect jobs and $645 million in payroll, $1.6 billion in new capital investment, and a projected $565 million in new tax revenues.”

But he admitted there were also many failures along the way, and presented a list of 15 companies that were taken off the program or had the term of their abatement reduced.

“There is a strict compliance component,” he said. “If they do not meet their projects, the correct adjustments are made.”

But even then, “the companies that did not make it all the way through their PILOT still contributed revenues and jobs to the economy.”

But as forcefully voiced during the recent police and firefighters walkout, many citizens still wonder if the value return is worth it.

CHRISTENSEN CONTINUED FROM FRONT lands, Christensen received support from key women’s political groups. The Women’s Campaign Fund, which helps female candidates for office raise money, has listed Christensen as a “game changer.”

“Christensen has been a strong supporter of the Virgin Islands’ Women’s Coalition and other organizations that advocate for women, especially against [domestic] abuse,” the organization’s website said. “She has always participated in programs on the [Capitol] Hill and elsewhere that addressed women’s issues and is actively involved in the Virgin Islands Commission on Women’s Issues and the Congressional Caucus on Women’s Issues.

Christensen has also gotten the support of EMILY’s List, the powerful political organization which trains and funds female candidates for political office. “Donna Christensen has an outstanding record of service to the women and families of the Virgin Islands,”

Stephanie Schriock, president of the organization, said. “The EMILY’s List community of over three million members is thrilled that Donna is one step closer to becoming the first woman governor of the U.S. Virgin Islands.”

If elected governor, Christensen will be the first Black woman to become a member of the National Governors Association, the trade association for the leaders of the states and territories. Michael Fauntroy, a political scientist who teaches at Howard University, said that is an important perk for Christensen.

“The National Governors Association will give her a chance to participate with her fellow governors in dealing with national issues and give her a national profile,” he said.

Fauntroy said that while Christensen’s election will be a boon for Black women it does have its limits. “While her election will be noteworthy and represents another step for African-American women in politics, running the Virgin Islands is somewhat off the national radar,” he said. “It isn’t like she would be the governor of New York or Maryland, but it still is important.”

Tri-State Defender

Page 3

August 28 - September 3, 2014

NEWS

Ferguson: Straight facts on MikeBrown shooting case topsy, Brown was struck four times in his right arm and twice to the head. Dr. Michael Baden, the former chief medical examiner for the City of New York, stated that Brown was shot a total of six times. Four bullets hit his right arm, supporting a theory of the submissive or defensive stance he may have taken. Dr. Baden did not exhibit bias and did not have full access to witness reports and X-rays. However, his autopsy was the first glimpse in to revealing the actions that led to Brown’s death.

by D.L. Chandler Special to The New Tri-State Defender

(newsone.com) The police shooting death of 18-year-old Michael “Mike” Brown in Ferguson, Mo., on August 9th captured the attention of the nation. With an explosive case impacted by the racial tensions of a White police officer shooting an unarmed Black teenager, theories regarding the incident have been myriad. NewsOne has compiled a working list of facts that have been officially confirmed to help clarify the case up to this point.

Brown and his 22-year-old friend Dorian Johnson visited the Ferguson Market and Liquor Store shortly before noon on that fateful Saturday, and the details surrounding what occurred in the store are unclear. The ongoing narrative was that Brown was involved in a strong arm robbery at the market, although not much has solidified that claim. There was also chatter of Brown lifting a package of cigars from the store, although the market’s owner never called the so-called theft in.

What has also been difficult to determine is why were Brown and Johnson the target of officer Darren Wilson’s investigation since he didn’t know Brown was a robbery suspect when he encountered the pair just past noon. An officer responded to the robbery call, which was made by a customer, but the suspects alleged to be Brown and Johnson were long gone. The situation gets murkier with the fatal conclusion of the confrontation between Brown and Wilson standing as the spark for the unrest that ravaged the town of Ferguson for weeks.

Here are the details of the case below: • Did Brown Rob the Ferguson Market Before Wilson Stopped Him? The surveillance video that has been released by Ferguson PD showed Brown in the store. However, the store owners said they did not report a robbery and that a customer in the store made the call via their attorney. Further, a longer version of the video shows that Brown did indeed pay for a package of cigarillos but took more. Once again, the police in the investigation have the full video and have only released a portion thus far. There is also a portion of the clip showing Brown shoving the owner of the store. Without audio, there is no way to determine what was said.

• What Led to the Shooting?

• What Are Ferguson Authorities Saying?

Michael Brown Officer Wilson confronted Brown and Johnson, speaking with them about walking in the street.

From there, the accounts of several eyewitnesses becomes dizzying. Johnson says that Wilson approached the pair and used vulgar language to get them to walk on a sidewalk. And just moments from where they were heading, the pair was stopped by Wilson who allegedly grabbed Brown by the neck, which led to a scuffle.

Other eyewitnesses say they saw a scuffle between Brown and Wilson, with Wilson shooting Brown. Reportedly, Brown fled on foot and was chased down by Wilson as the teen’s hands were up. Most of the outside accounts say that Wilson was the aggressor and Brown tried to pull away.

Officer Wilson has stated that Brown went for his service weapon in that reported scuffle. There were also several stories stating that Brown surrendered to Wilson and was mercilessly gunned down.

• How Many Times Was Mike Brown Shot?

According to the findings of an independent au-

From Ferguson Mayor James Knowles III to Ferguson Police Chief Thomas Jackson, they have not offered any clear take on the matter.

Considering the city was ravaged by riots and heavy-handed response from police, there has not been much said from their side about the ongoing investigation. The local medical examiner’s autopsy of Brown was “consistent” with Dr. Baden’s findings, according to family attorney Benjamin Crump.

On Wednesday, August 20, a St. Louis County grand jury began to look in to the matter. Mayor Knowles, who was nearly assaulted by angry demonstrators at a church support effort, forcing him to reportedly run for his life on August 23, has promised transparency. Gov. Jay Nixon has demilitarized Ferguson police after days of clashes and placed the Missouri State Highway Patrol in charge, which is led by African-American Capt. Ron Johnson.

• Is There An Investigation Coming From the Federal Government?

The U.S. Department Of Justice has launched a federal civil rights investigation, and Attorney General Eric Holder visited the city and delivered pointed remarks on the matter. Holder has also ordered a third autopsy to be done.

• Did Mike Brown Have a Criminal Record?

Despite some questionable portrayals of Brown in certain areas of the press, it was revealed Brown had no criminal record. The county’s medical examiner noted that Brown had marijuana in his system at the time of his death, which is a claim that the Brown family has said was unclear. Others have noted that mentioning that fact was an attempt to paint Brown as some raving criminal.

BEALE CONTINUED FROM FRONT best to be a short-term money grab with nebulous benefit.

The implementation of a fee to get on a public street in order to fix a perceived safety issue is a bad idea point blank period. If safety is the issue, consider these potential solutions.

• How about Director Tony Armstrong and the Memphis Police Department come up with a more efficient deployment of officers along intervals of the street?

• How about the use of undercover or plain-clothed onduty officers?

• How about the Sheriff’s Department kicking in? Isn’t Memphis part of Shelby County?

The real issue lies beyond safety. Memphis, and particularly Beale Street has not embraced high-quality customer service as a key factor for economic development and tourism. I’ve traveled all over the world and the best destinations overwhelm visitors with impeccable customer service.

The message you receive is “we value you, you are important to us and we want you to know it, because we want you back again and again”. “We want you to feel good about spending money when you are here”.

When met with a similar experience to my evening, those with disposable income will consistently CHOOSE to spend their time and money elsewhere. When they make that choice, Beale Street is left with the ups and downs of the tourist crowds and locals with little to no money to spend. That is not a winning formula for Beale Street or for Memphis.

In the end, I am glad I was asked to venture down to Beale Street. It gave me a firsthand experience of the real challenges plaguing one of Memphis’ truly underperforming assets. The answer lies within the problem, yet it remains to be seen if those with the power to change it will move accordingly or hang on to the status quo and keep implementing quick “solutions” that ultimately make the problem worse. In the meantime, I’ll be spending my money where they value and show me appreciation. I owe it to myself.

Page 4

August 28 - September 3, 2014

Tri-State Defender

OPINION John H. Sengstacke Publisher (1951 - 1997)

The Mid-South’s Best Alternative Newspaper

Black men share keys to their success

FLASHBACK: 2002

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

Powered by Best Media

by Marian Wright Edelman NNPA Columnist

Disheartening trend

Blacks and Whites view events through a different set of lenses

by George E. Curry NNPA Columnist

Public opinion polls confirm a fact that has been documented in instances ranging from the O.J. Simpson verdict to recent events in Ferguson: When it comes to race, Blacks and Whites largely view events through a different set of lenses.

Several recent polls provided yet more proof of this disheartening trend.

According to a recent New York Times/CBS News poll, more than half of Black Americans polled – 57 percent – said the killing of the unarmed, 18-year-old Michael Brown

by Ferguson, Mo. Police Officer Darren Wilson on Aug. 9 was “not justified.” Among Whites, 25 percent said the shooting death was unjustified.

In addition, 31 percent of White Americans, and 71 percent of Blacks, said they think police are generally more likely to use deadly force against a person of color than a White person.

The performance of Gov. Jay Nixon, a Democrat, also received mixed reviews, so to speak. He mobilized the Missouri State Highway Patrol and then activated the Missouri National Guard after declaring a state of emergency and imposing a curfew. Blacks were twice as likely as Whites to say involving the National Guard only made matters worse.

Only a quarter of Blacks nationally are satisfied with Gov. Nixon’s actions, while nearly half said Nixon’s performance in the aftermath of the shooting was unsatisfactory. In contrast, Whites were divided: A third were satisfied and a third dissatisfied Not surprisingly, Blacks, Obama’s most loyal bloc, continue to back him by large margins.

Sixty percent of African Americans said they were satisfied with the president’s actions; 20 percent said they were dissatisfied. Whites were split, with 35 percent in support of President Obama and 39 percent dissatisfied.

The New York Times poll showed that 10 percent of those surveyed thought race relations have improved since Obama has been in office, 52 percent felt they are about the same as before and 35 percent said race relations have gotten worse under Obama. Of those saying things had gotten worse, 40 percent were White and 21 percent were African American.

There are many independent markers that indicate, in general, that race relations have improved over the last half century, including attitudes toward interracial marriages. Amid such progress, however, there is undeniable evidence that Blacks and Whites look at racially-tinged events from a different perspective.

A survey conducted by the Pew Research Center for the People & the Press found that 80 percent of African Americans say the shooting in the St. Louis suburb of Ferguson raises important issues about race

that merit discussion. By contrast, only 37 percent of Whites – less than half the ratio of Blacks – feel that way. In addition, among Whites, 47 percent feel race is getting more attention than it deGeorge E. serves in the Curry Michael Brown case. But only 18 percent of Blacks share that view.

According to the poll, 65 percent of Blacks feel police have gone too far in reacting to Michael Brown’s death and 20 percent feel the response was about right. Again, Whites had a different reaction, with 33 percent saying police had gone too far and a roughly equal proportion, 32 percent saying authorities had acted properly.

More than half of all African Americans – 54 percent – reported they were following events in Ferguson very closely. Less than half of Whites –25 percent – and Latinos – 18 percent – said they were closely following the events in Missouri.

There was a political divide as well, with 68 percent of Democrats feeling the Michael Brown case raises important issues while only 22 percent of Republicans contending it raises racial issues that need to be discussed. Also, 61 percent of Republicans say the issue of race has gotten too much attention in the case; only 21 percent of Democrats support that view.

The 1996 murder trial of O.J. Simpson exposed this raw divide. A CNN/USA Today Poll showed that 62 percent of African-Americans supported the jury’s decision to acquit the former football star. However, only 20 percent of Whites agreed with the jury. There was a similar split in polls taken during Hank Aaron’s campaign to break Babe Ruth’s all-time home run record and Barry Bond overtaking Aaron.

Even on a supposedly race-neutral issue such as federal aid to victims of Hurricane Katrina, racial views were split. According to a CNN/USA Today poll, six in 10 African Americans said the federal government was slow to rescue residents of New Orleans because many of them were Black. However, only one in eight Whites concurred.

How can we narrow the racial divide when we can’t even agree if there is one?

(George E. Curry, former editorin-chief of Emerge magazine, is editor-in-chief of the National Newspaper Publishers Association News Service (NNPA.) He is a keynote speaker, moderator, and media coach. Curry can be reached through his Web site, www.georgecurry.com.

You can also follow him at www.twitter.com/currygeorge and George E. Curry Fan Page on Facebook.)

FACEBOOK FAN OF THE WEEK Name: Joan Lee Nelson Joan Lee Nelson is this week’s TSD Facebook Fan of the Week! She is a researcher, historian, civil rights pioneer, freedom fighter, founder/developer of the Underground Railroad Living Legacy Museum/Burkle Estate, and co-founder and coowner of Heritage Tours Inc. Her favorite quote is from Frederick Douglass: “Whatever we're doing, if it doesn't have anything to do with freedom, it's a waste of time.”

Thanks Joan Lee Nelson for being a part of the TSD Facebook family!

Tri-State Defender Platform 1. Racial prejudice worldwide must be destroyed.

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

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

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

5. Complete cessation of all school segregation.

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

DISTRIBUTION: Tri-State Defender is available at newsstands, street sales, store vendors, mail subscription and honor boxes throughout the Greater Memphis area. No person may, without prior written permission of the Tri-State Defender, reprint any part of or duplicate by electronic device any portion without written permission. Copyright 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.

Blackonomics

Symbolism without Substance: From Jena to Ferguson

by James Clingman NNPA Columnist

Remember the Jena Six? Some 15,000 to 20,000 protesters went to Jena, La. in 2006 to demonstrate against injustice. After all the speeches, threats, marches, and church rallies, the people went home and nothing really changed. The prosecutors did their thing and the system rolled right over Mychal Bell and the other five defendants. It was business as usual. Did we learn anything from Jena that we can apply in Ferguson?

What will take place in Ferguson when the protesters leave? What happened in Sanford, Fla. after they left?

What has happened in Staten Island since Eric Garner was choked to death?

The latest report says the prosecutor is still trying to “collect the dots,” much less connect the dots, and most have forgotten about Garner and his family and moved on to Ferguson, as it now becomes the crisis du jour for Black people.

Eleven years ago, Kenneth Walker was shot and killed by a police officer on I-185 in Columbus, Ga. He was in a car that was pulled over by mistake. He was on the ground, unarmed, when a police officer shot him twice in the head. After protesters and marchers went home, the officer was acquitted.

There are many instances of Black men killed by police with impunity.

So what’s my point? Well, as I watched the church services and listened to the speeches in Ferguson, I eagerly awaited the speakers’ solutions. I could have missed it, but I never heard a solution that centered on economics. I heard the obligatory voting solution, in light of an embarrassing 12 percent turnout among Black voters, but an “I Voted!” sticker will not stop a policeman’s bullet, and voting alone will not change our condition in this nation.

I also heard the praying solution, and I do believe that prayer changes things. However, I am suggesting that the folks in Ferguson and all across this country not only pray but fast as well. That combination will definitely create change.

Be clear now: I am not talking about giving up food for a period of time. The kind of fasting I am suggesting is a “product fast,” which does require doing without and less buying, but isn’t the cause worth it?

Maybe the “leaders” who came to Ferguson were afraid to call for a product fast because they could lose a check or a contract or an endorsement or their status among corporate giants. Capitalism can tolerate marches that call for voting and prayer, but it has a great deal of angst when a decline in consumption and sales occurs.

“Black-Out” days and other shotgun approaches are nice gestures but have no overall affect; they are simply more symbolism without sub-

stance.

They make you feel good but won’t cause anyone to change.

Folks just go out the next day and buy what they want.

A product fast is quite different.

For instance, Black folks conJames sume a lot of soft Clingman drinks, gym shoes, liquor, fast foods, and other items we don’t think we can do without. Just stop buying some of these products until corporate CEO’s tell the politicians who would tell the governors who would tell the mayors and prosecutors who would tell the police chiefs who would tell their officers to stop violating our rights. You better believe their voices will be heard.

Money runs politics, and when campaign donors are against something they will get results from the politicians they support, especially when their bottom-line is adversely affected. For example, can you imagine Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz, Coca Cola CEO Muhtar Kent, Pepsi Cola CEO Indra Nooyi, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, Nike CEO Mark Parker, McDonald’s CEO Donald Thompson, Diageo Liquor’s CEO Ivan Menezes, and even Anheuser Busch’s CEO Thomas Santel, standing before national media and calling for an end to injustices against Black people? Nothing personal against these companies; it’s just as they say in war, “collateral damage.” But the damage would stop when the folks who run this country speak out.

Al, Jesse, and others have been marching for decades, and we got Michael Brown, Eric Garner, Trayvon Martin, Jordan Davis, Sean Bell, Oscar Grant, Timothy Thomas, Nathaniel Jones, Kenneth Walker, Patrick Dorismond, Amadou Diallo, John Crawford, Ezell Ford, and nameless others.

Stop the insanity of doing the same thing and hoping for different results.

We need leaders who are unafraid to call for economic solutions, not leaders who will hurt you if you get between them and a TV camera or microphone. Get the folks who are really in charge of this country to speak out, and we will see a positive change. Start your local Prayer and Fasting campaign now; and use the money you save to build businesses, create jobs, and recreate real Black communities.

(Jim Clingman, founder of the Greater Cincinnati African American Chamber of Commerce, is the nation’s most prolific writer on economic empowerment for Black people. He is an adjunct professor at the University of Cincinnati and can be reached through his Web site, blackonomics.com.)

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We know the commonly repeated claim that there are more Black men in prison than in college isn’t true.

But in 2011, Black men accounted for fewer than 6 percent of undergraduate students and 4 percent of graduate Marian Wright students, though Edelman they made up 8.7 percent of 18-29-year-olds. Many who go to college never graduate.

At a recent symposium co-sponsored by the Children’s Defense Fund and the Educational Testing Service on “Advancing Success for Black Men in College,” the focus was on solutions and how to get more young men to attend and graduate from college. The marvelous opening panel featured four Black men in college sharing their experiences, including the opportunities that helped them most – and the advice they would give to an audience of third-grade Black boys.

Shawon Jackson, a rising senior at Princeton University, was quick to credit his parents and the public boarding school he attended an hour away from his Chicago-area home for strong support in getting on the road to college. For Shawon, the QuestBridge program, which identifies talented low-income students and helps support them as they apply to top colleges and universities, made it possible for him to attend Princeton.

Extra support has also given him opportunities to travel and work in Spain and Honduras. He said, “Going to different countries allowed me to develop a different perspective; so by the time I got back to Princeton, I was able to say, wow, there’s a world outside of Princeton, and there is a world outside of what I saw growing up.”

Shawon’s advice for young Black boys: “I would tell them that you will make it, and that education is the gateway to whatever you want it to be. I would talk about how it doesn’t matter what your background was, what your parents did or did not do, or what was around your community – if you persevere and if you make education your number one priority, you can quite literally do anything that you want in this world. I would talk about how society may have one expectation for you, but that you have to set your own expectations, and if you guide yourself, then you’ll be rewarded in the end.”

Javon Mullings gave credit to the Posse Foundation, which targets youth leaders from public urban high schools and helps send them to partner colleges and universities in small groups, creating a support “posse” of peers on each campus.

Javon, the valedictorian of his New York high school, received a scholarship to “Posse Partner” Wheaton College in Massachusetts, where he’s had great opportunities including working in a professor’s lab and a series of outside summer internships, including one at the Federal Reserve and this summer, a research position at Cornell University.

Javon said: “Accumulation of knowledge is the accumulation of power, and knowledge can be acquired in multiple ways, not necessarily just in a classroom.

And to what Shawon was saying earlier, the opportunities that college provides that you may not necessarily get elsewhere, like study abroad opportunities and the opportunity to meet people from various socioeconomic classes — you learn from these people, you accumulate knowledge, you accumulate power, and then you can make your dreams come true.”

Marvin Perry, as a fourth and fifthgrader, was in an all-Black male classroom in Cleveland, with a Black male teacher who became a role model. He taught Marvin many lessons in and out of the classroom, including how to tie a tie and ultimately inspired Marvin to want to become a teacher, too.

He had two pieces of advice for young students: “Put God over your life. That’s the first thing I would tell them. Second . . . Perseverance. No matter how many times you get beat up, just get right back up and keep fighting and keep going.”

Sixto Cancel, a student at Virginia Commonwealth University, spent much of his childhood in the child welfare system with no family, financial or emotional support to fall back on. But a financial literacy program sponsored by the Jim Casey Youth Opportunities Initiative and designed to help prepare him for life on his own taught him a critical skill no one else had passed on—a framework for how to make healthy decisions.

His advice: “If it is to be, it’s up to me.

You’re going to be dealt cards and it might be very unfair. You might only have three and the guy next to you has 12. But you better play to win, and then stick to those people who are there to help you win.”

(Marian Wright Edelman is president of the Children’s Defense Fund whose Leave No Child Behind® mission is to ensure every child a Healthy Start, a Head Start, a Fair Start, a Safe Start and a Moral Start in life and successful passage to adulthood with the help of caring families and communities. For more information go to www.childrensdefense.org.)

Tri-State Defender

Page 5

August 28 - September 3, 2014

BUSINESS ON OUR WAY TO WEALTHY

Allworld Films brings aerial footage to life Have you ever experienced a movie with footage that was in the air or over water? The beauty of the scene can often be breathtaking. So when I stumbled across Allworld Films, I was taken aback by their aerial capability. Allworld Films is a full-service production company specializing in aerial video and photography.

As one of the first in the market with the technology, Allworld Films is poised to make an impact in the industry. William Evans impressed me as a young gentleman who is focused and determined.

But unbeknownst to me, he is just a young man who is a highly trained veteran of the United States Air Force.

Join me as William Evans tells us about his journey to put his company on the map.

Carlee McCullough: Tell us about yourself, William Evans.

William Evans: I am from Memphis originally. I graduated from Overton High School and I'm a veteran of the United States Air Force. I have been creating video projects since the age of 15 and have been well trained in film and television. I am one of the owners of Allworld Films, a videography company specializing in aerial footage, corporate messaging, music, and television.

C.M.: What is a video artist?

W.E.: Creating a video project is one the most creative JOBS ever. Storytelling in video and film is an art form and that makes me an artist.

C.M.: When you’re on set what are you looking for when you’re capturing the right f o o t a g e ?

W.E.: I am looking for the “money shot,” which includes the right lighting and the right scene or setup. When we make our clients look great, we look great!

C.M.: What are the necessary elements that go into a successful film business?

W.E.: A successful business requires talent and knowledge

of the business at a minimum. And a great lawyer helps even more!

C.M.: What do you do to Carlee get in- McCullough spired?

W.E.: I visit the Allen Entrepreneurial Institute in Atlanta because the institute focuses on millionaires William that have Evans accomplished their goals. The facility is encouraging and puts your mind in the right place to win!

C.M.: How would you describe your creative style?

W.E.: My style is corporate and cool! My work is always professional enough to pass in the boardroom, but I am a member of the hip-hop generation, so it always carries a certain amount of cool!

C.M.: What emerging trends do you see in the film industry?

W.E.: We are one of the first in the market to use unmanned aerial aircrafts. I've gotten used to the idea in the military of using drones, but I never imagined that I'd be using them to shoot video projects.

The unmanned aerial aircraft provides us the opportunity to get footage that normally requires a helicopter to obtain.

The result is incredible footage that takes the client’s project to unimagined levels.

C.M.: What do you enjoy most about this field?

W.E.: I enjoy taking someone else’s idea from concept to reality. To bring their vision to life is rewarding and to get compensated for the experi-

ence is even better.

C.M.: What skills are most important for being a video artist?

W.E.: It is important to know about your camera (white balance, iris etc.).

Learn lighting and editing, which become assets to the clients during the project.

C.M.: As a business owner, have you been open to advice along the way?

W.E.: Definitely. As a business owner you have to know

and understand “good advice” versus bad advice.

Ultimately, it is up to the business owner to make the right decisions that are best for the business overall.

C.M.: What are the components to making a video?

W.E.: To create a great video you must have a good crew with a lot of moving parts. A good director, light crew, editors and plenty of creative juices are all muchneeded components. A video can be completed without all

of the components. However, to make a great video, the moving parts are very important.

C.M.: At the end of the day, who inspires William Evans?

W.E.: I'm inspired by entrepreneurs, people who are selfmotivated, self-employed and successful. Many have made it before me and strive to not only walk in their footsteps, but to make a few of my own by being cutting-edge in my industry.

C.M.: Any closing re-

marks?

W.E.: Find your lane and hit the gas until you reach your destination. My good business advice as a business owner is “grind until further notice!” If you've tried the rest, now try the best!

For additional information visit Allworld Films at www.allworldfilms.com.

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

MONEY MATTERS

When adult children need financial help Children can be one of the great joys of life, but let’s face it: Kids are expensive. Every year since 1960, the federal government has estimated the average cost for a middle-income couple to raise a child through age 17. For a child born in 1960, the estimated cost was $25,229 ($195,690 in 2012 dollars).

For a child born in 2012, the estimate was $241,080. Then there’s the cost of a college education, which could be $100,000 or more (for tuition, fees, room, and board) at a private four-year college. After that, though, the kids are on

their own, ri g h t ?

Well, not exactly.

In one survey, 59 percent of parents said they had helped their adult c h i l d r e n Charles Sims (ages 18 to Jr., CFP 39) financially who weren’t in college. About one out of four reported going into debt to help their children, and 7 percent delayed retirement.

Clearly, it can be difficult to balance your own financial needs with the desire to help your children through a challenging financial time. If you face this dilemma, here are some ideas to consider.

Examine your own financial situation. Don’t just pull out your checkbook. Consider whether you can really afford to help. Will helping now compromise your ability to live in retirement? If so, look for other ways to provide assistance.

Understand your child’s situation. Is this an unexpected short-term crisis? Or is it a

chronic issue? What kind of sacrifices is your child making to improve his or her financial situation? What steps can he or she take to avoid a future crisis?

Establish whether monetary help is a gift or a loan. Making it a loan could help your child develop financial responsibility. If it’s a loan, set a realistic repayment schedule. A gift exceeding $14,000 ($28,000 for a couple) could be subject to gift taxes.

Consider other ways to help. Could your child move in with you on a temporary basis? Do you have an extra car

for job transportation? Can you provide childcare for grandchildren? Do you have contacts that might help your child find a job? Are there outside agencies that could help?

Having children is a lifetime commitment, and it’s natural to want to help them no matter how old they are.

When it comes to helping adult children financially, however, it may be better to treat them less like children and more like adults.

The information in this article is not intended as tax or legal advice, and it may not be

relied on for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. You are encouraged to seek tax or legal advice from an independent professional advisor. The content is derived from sources believed to be accurate. Neither the information presented nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.

(Charles Sims Jr., CFP, is President/ CEO of The Sims Financial Group. Contact him at 901-682-2410 or visit www.SimsFinancialGroup.co m.)

Page 6

Tri-State Defender

August 28 - September 3, 2014

RELIGION RELIGION BRIEFS United Community Church honors the Rev. George Scott “Come, Let’s Go Back to the Word” is the theme of the United Community Missionary Baptist Church’s Pastor’s Jubilee Banquet honoring the Rev. George Scott on Aug. 31st at 7 p.m., 3002 Airways Blvd., Suite 902, near Directors Row. The church is located at 131 West Person Ave. in the South Memphis community. For more information about the Pastor’s Jubilee Banquet, call (901) 503-1590.

True Worship Fellowship elicits a ‘call to prayer’ True Worship Fellowship International is hosting a prayer breakfast entitled “A Call to Prayer for Such as Time as This” on Sept. 13 at 9:30 a.m. at the Servant’s Circle, 2988 Old Austin Peay Hwy. in the Raleigh community.

Bishop Nehemiah Kennedy, pastor of Cathedral of Hope Community Church and founder/president of Second Chance Ministries, will be the keynote speaker. Charlie Caswell, executive director of Rangeline Neighborhood Community Development Corporation, will be the special guest.

There is a $20 per person charge. For more information, call (901) 650-7413 or email kfdobbs@live.com.

Dr. K.F. Dobbs is the host pastor.

Let the best church grill master come forward

by Wiley Henry whenry@tsdmemphis.com

The members of Faith Keepers Ministry International Cathedral are inviting the public to join them at the church’s first annual Christian Grill-Off Sunday, Aug. 30, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 3362 Jewell Rd. in the Raleigh-Frayser community.

“We are asking each church for a griller to represent their church,” said Cathy Green, event founder and coordinator. “We’re trying to bring the churches together as one for a

good ole Christian grill-off outside.

The grill-off is called “Holy Smoke,” which Green conceived to align churches and to make a difference in the community.

Men and women who have a knack for grilling can participate, she added, when an entry fee of $100 per griller.

“We are looking for the community of Raleigh/Frayser to come out and participate.

And I’m believing in God for a great turnout,” she said.

Grillers are asked to bring their own grill with them along with a slab of ribs and two other meats (chicken, turkey or beef). Other

than food, the church will provide games and recreation for children and adults.

“There will be health screenings inside the church – diabetes, HIV/AIDS and high blood pressure testing – and grilling on the outside,” Green said. “And we will have nurse practitioners on the ground to screen the participants.”

Church choirs will be singing too.

“We’re looking forward to seeing which church has the best grill master,” Green said.

Prophet Gerald Coleman Sr. is the senior pastor of Faith Keepers Ministry International Cathedral.

Singing praises...

Mt. Vernon Baptist Church-Westwood, located at 620 Parkrose Ave., celebrated “choir day” Sunday (Aug. 24) during its 10 a.m. service. Bedecked in black and turquoise, choir members sang praises to the Lord. Barry Brown (right) sang lead on one of the songs. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

Three-day confab designed to help those with problems The South Germantown Road Church of Christ, 3825 S. Germantown Rd., will host a three-day conference Sept. 28th-30th entitled “From Old Me to New Me.” The conference is designed to release the participant from the pain, problems and bad practices that could cause problems over and over again.

• On Sunday, Sept 28th, at 10:30 a.m., there will be an “Emphasis on Changing Our Spirit.”

• On Monday, Sept 29th, at 7 p.m., there will be an “Emphasis on Changing Our Soul.”

• On Tuesday, Sept 30th, at 7 p.m., there will be an “Emphasis on Changing Our Behavior.”

Registration will begin Saturday, Sept. 27th, during the “Germantown Taste” event and a reminder gift will be given that evening for those who sign up for the conference.

The conference is free to the public. For more information, call (901) 309-9809 or visit the church website at www.sgrcoc.org. Interested persons also can follow the church on Facebook and register at South Germantown Road.

Women’s Day...

Progressive Missionary Baptist Church, 394 Vance Ave., celebrated “Annual Women’s Day 2014” Sunday (Aug. 24th). The theme: “The Empowerment of Christian Women.”

The Rev. Dr. James B. Collins, the church’s pastor, spoke during the 11 a.m. service.

Ephie BallardJohnson of Hope Presbyterian Church spoke at the 3 p.m. service.

From left: co-chair Rhondalyn-Strong Ware, chair Rosanna Williams Stepney, Ballard-Johnson, Collins, and Patrice Turner, mistress of ceremony. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

‘The Greatest Gift’ stage play set for two-day run Step of Faith Mission Church, 208 S. 8th St. in West Memphis, Ark., will host the upcoming stage play “The Greatest Gift” Saturday, Aug. 30, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, Aug. 31 at 5 p.m.

The Christian-based comedy/musical drama is about a family man who falls from grace because of drug addiction and poor decisions. He ultimately faces consequences that lead him to a new revelation.

Admission is $10 in advance and $12 at the door. For Further information, call (901) 214-8859 or visit gwmpro.webs.com.

Mid-South church opens doors to ‘Community Day’ New Growth in Christ Christian Church will host “Community Celebration Day” on Sunday, Aug. 31 from noon to 2 p.m. at 7550 East Shelby Dr., the church’s location. The church will culminate 24 years of gospel ministry and service in the Mid-South region.

The event is free for the entire family. There will be food and fun, including a game truck, a 3-on-3 basketball tournament, volleyball, bouncers, free give-a-ways (back to school supplies), health screenings (blood pressure, cholesterol, hypertension information, glucose, breast/prostate cancer information) and free legal advice.

Dr. Sidney P. Malone is the church’s senior pastor.

PRAISE CONNECT -A WEEKLY DIRECTORY OF MINISTERS & CHURCHESMETROPOLITAN BAPTIST CHURCH Dr. Reginald L. Porter Sr., Pastor 767 Walker Avenue Memphis, TN 38126

901-946-4095 fax 948-8311

ASSOCIATE MINISTERS 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

“Cast your burden on the LORD, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.”

– Psalm 55:22

Attend the Church of your choice

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

—Phillipians 4:13

ENTERTAINMENT Tri-State Defender, Thursday, August 28 - September 3, 2014, Page 7

BOOK REVIEW

The ‘real’

Muhammad Ali is depicted in a documentary about his life outside the ring

God had Black gladiators on the Earth and I saw it when he came through the hallway. That’s when I knew he was a gladiator; one of Special to The New Tri-State Defender those gladiators that wins all of the time—I felt it,” she added.

Although it was a memorable moment for her, she said she was CHICAGO (FinalCall.com) – One of the most recognizable fignot thinking at all about him being her husband. She was just a ures on the Earth is Muhammad Ali. While many have heard his young student who was willing at any moment to defend her belief name and been told of his exploits in the ring, do you truly know in Islam as taught by the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad. She his story? said she remembers others teasing her and her friends for wearing You may know that he suffers from Parkinson’s disease and is long dresses and headscarves. not the fast-talking, swift moving athlete he once was. You may “I remember going on the school bus, going from home to know that he joined the Nation of Isschool or going from the Honorable lam, and you might even know that he Elijah Muhammad’s house because I refused to fight in America’s military, grew up in the house with his grandbut how did he become such a children and I would see the girls roll beloved American figure? their skirts up—the ones that weren’t You could say he has now become really Muslims—so people wouldn’t the quintessential American symbol. laugh at them,” she said.

You don’t get much more American She said she was a fierce defender than carrying the Olympic torch and of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhamlighting the flame, as he did during the mad, and often, her father would get opening ceremonies of the 1996 calls about her knocking people’s teeth games in Atlanta. out for speaking negatively about the Historically speaking, many are acpatriarch of the Nation of Islam. She quainted with the popular portrayal of even told me about an encounter Muhammad Ali as a brash, braggadowhere one young boy got more than cios (some might even say arrogant) he anticipated after doing so. boxer who in his own words “shook “There was one boy hollering about up the world,” becoming the heavyElijah Muhammad and you know how weight champion of the world as a 22in the suburbs you have the big mounyear-old in 1964. tain or hill when they’re building a Though many movies and documennew house? That boy ran across that taries have been produced purporting hill and I picked up a rock and said to tell his story, they typically gloss ‘Allah hit him for me’ and I threw that over his turbulent times outside of the rock hard as I could and it went ring. Many fail to realize that at one straight in the boy’s mouth! Now time, he was one of the most vilified that’s what you call God sent!” Camapeople in the United States. cho-Ali said matter of factly.

As it is with many widely known historical figures, opinions and “I say you can talk about my momma, you can talk about my perceptions vary because information about them is delivered to daddy, you’re not going to get a rise out of me, but you better not the unsuspecting public through the social and political lenses of talk about the Honorable Elijah Muhammad! I will hurt you. Don’t authors, commentators, film producers, and media personalities. step across that line—that is one line you don’t want to cross with The fact that he backed up his words by defeating his foes in the me. I might not be no Muhammad Ali, but you will not get up,” ring is very important, but the fact that he stood firmly on his besaid Camacho-Ali, who is shown in the documentary with boxing liefs outside of the ring defeating his foes in an epic battle of gloves and punching the heavy bags. “Oh, I’m serious! I was a morality must be looked at more carefully and perhaps does more warrior of Islam.” to tell you about who Muhammad Ali It is a mistaken belief that the Nais. tion of Islam misguided or misused “The Trials of Muhammad Ali,” Muhammad Ali. In fact, it was the from Kartemquin Films (Hoop opposite, said Camacho Ali. The NaDreams, The Interrupters) is by far the tion of Islam protected Muhammad fairest treatment I’ve seen because of Ali from unscrupulous elements that the prominent presence and voices of controlled the boxing industry in parthose who actually lived through it. ticular and sports in general.

One of the primary reasons for that is “Quiet as it is kept, if it wasn’t for Khalilah Camacho-Ali, wife of the Nation of Islam, if it wasn’t for Muhammad Ali from 1967 to 1977.

Elijah Muhammad, if it wasn’t for She said when she was approached (Jabir) Herbert Muhammad protecting to be a part of it in the very beginning, his interests, Ali could have been soldshe told the director, Bill Siegel, that up to any kind of Italian mafia or JewMinister Louis Farrakhan’s valuable ish mafia,” said Camacho-Ali. “The perspective must be included if the mobsters were involved or over all truth about the champion fighter was sports events basically. The mob hanto be told. dles gambling; they handle sports.

“I said he has to be in there,” said This was a time and era – and thank Camacho-Ali. “When Ali and I got God that didn’t happen – and that was married, we weren’t very wealthy or Khalilah Camacho-Ali holds photo of the two as a good protection for Muhammad Ali. anything, so we didn’t have any mon- a young married couple. (Photo: Tim 6X) He could do what he pleased, do what ey to go on a honeymoon or anything, he wanted, do what he did best without so Minister Louis Farrakhan invited us up to New York to his any conflicts or deceit or gambling. That was a good feeling and home, took us on a boat ride on the Hudson River, took a little that was a good thing to have in our corner.”

8mm video and stuff; we had a ball! We were on the cover of She also said during the most trying times, it was the Honorable every Jet Magazine with Farrakhan and his family as being our Elijah Muhammad who stepped in to make sure they had what sponsors. They took care of us during the time when we had noththey needed. ing. For him not to be in there would be absurd,” she added.

“We had the Nation of Islam; we had the Honorable Elijah The Farrakhan family, knowing her long before she even met the Muhammad and when we really ran out of money and didn’t have champion fighter, provided a sanctuary for a young Muslim girl anything, the Honorable Elijah Muhammad came in and supported whose life was now in the spotlight, us; he gave us money to survive and and supported them both, providing prevail. That was a great help,” she comfort and compassion during times said. of woe and depression.

Camacho-Ali talks about working Camacho-Ali said Siegel did not obwith, living with and supporting one ject at all, and that was when she of the most famous men on Earth durknew this was an individual that she ing his battles with the courts and the believed would really work to honestU.S. government after he ignited the ly tell the story. She said for various anti-war movement declaring himself reasons, many are afraid to delve into a conscientious objector and subsethe complexities of Muhammad Ali’s quently losing his boxing license, membership in the Nation of Islam, which hindered his ability to make a the court cases and others aspects of living. Trying times that affected them his life, which are deemed controverboth, but secondary to him being a sial. man with courage, standing for a Talking about Muslims is somecause, and living a life with purpose. times seen as threatening to producers “That’s a battle we battle within and filmmakers, and they don’t know ourselves every day. I feel that if they how far they can go with it, so there is see the battles that Ali went through, a sense of fear, which usually results they can see the battles they’re going in them “playing it safe” and simply through because it’s all the same and I sticking to boxing, she said. think they can learn from that,” said If you’ve already had the opportuniCamacho-Ali. “It’s not just the trials ty to watch the documentary, you of Muhammad Ali it’s the trials of us know she has a lot of personality, and all and that’s why it’s so important to believe me, she was the same way in see that film. You know documenperson. Very colorful, expressive, and taries are as boring as can be, but it’s direct. She had no problems vividly nothing boring about Muhammad Ali, recalling the sights and sounds of her it’s nothing boring about the real side youth and speaking plainly about her of Muhammad Ali that nobody had a experiences. chance to see,” she added.

Ali family featured on the cover of Ebony magShe said when she first saw Muhammad Ali, she was a young stu- azine in 1969.

(This documentary contains little dent at the Muhammad University of known facts along with outstanding Islam and it was an exciting moment for her and her classmates. archival footage of the Honorable Elijah Muhammad and candid She said she heard the members of his entourage walking down the interviews with Nation of Islam pioneers, veteran journalists, and hallway before they came into view. commentators. For information regarding nationwide viewings and “It sounded like gladiators walking down the hallway and I screenings of “The Trials of Muhammad Ali” visit looked through the crack of the wall and there he was—a gladiakartemquin.com. Khalilah Camacho-Ali can be reached via her tor—a live in living color Black man,” said Camacho-Ali. “I knew website khalilahali.com.)

by Ashahed M. Muhammad

The Strawberrys can help you if you think your marriage is over

by Kam Williams Special to The New Tri-State Defender

“Marriage is a battlefield. Trust us, we know. Our marriage has suffered through—and survived—adultery, addiction, financial ruin, and the consequences of our own inner struggles…

However, we finally wised up and let God in… Through our surrender (and a lot of hard work), God orchestrated a miracle. Today, we are blessed to have each other and enjoy a strong, healthy, fulfilling, and meaningful relationship…

In this book, we share our story, the struggles and the triumphs, so you can see how, through the power of God and the process of change, He can transform a marriage from the inside out.”

Excerpted from the Introduction (pages xvii-xix) Darryl Strawberry won four World Series as a member of the New York Mets and Yankees over the course of his storybook career. Unfortunately, superstardom took a toll on the retired baseball great’s personal life in a way which often ended up splashed across the tabloids.

Several years after the fanfare ended, Darryl found himself turning to “cocaine, women, and alcohol” to numb the pain of bankruptcy, divorce, lawsuits, arrests and incarceration. He was lucky to meet his future wife Tracy at Narcotics Anonymous, though the serendipitous encounter was more like “lost at first sight” than “love at first sight.”

They would impulsively become involved, despite the fact that neither was really ready to forge a sacred union. For, Tracy had her own issues, too, even after being clean and sober for 12 months. Nevertheless, the two rushed into a toxic relationship where they would relapse rather than enrich each other before bottoming out.

Fortunately, both found the way back to love with the help of the Lord, and subsequently built a very strong marriage on the solid ground of the faith they share. The Strawberrys recount their perilous path to salvation in The Imperfect Marriage: Help for Those Who Think It’s Over, a warts-and-all memoir that is part cautionary tale, part self-help handbook.

Liberally sprinkled with quotes from scripture, it’s obvious that the pair puts a great amount of stock in the Bible, taking to heart the advice of Psalm 55:22 to ”Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you.” A divine-ordained blueprint for marital fulfillment designed for couples committed to follow the principles and teachings of Jesus Christ.

The Imperfect Marriage Help for Those Who Think It’s Over

by Darryl and Tracy Strawberry Howard Books Hardcover, $24.99 252 pages ISBN: 978-1-4767-3874-1

Page 8

Tri-State Defender

August 28 - September 3, 2014

ENTERTAINMENT OPENING THIS WEEK

FILM REVIEW

Kam’s Kapsules:

It’s spy vs. spy in labyrinthine espionage thriller

Weekly Previews That Make Choosing a Film Fun

by Kam Williams Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Kam Williams For movies opening August 22, 2014

BIG BUDGET FILMS “Are You Here” (R for sexuality, nudity, profanity and drug use) Road comedy revolving around a couple of lifelong friends’ (Owen Wilson and Zach Galifianakis) return trip to their hometown so one can collect an inheritance from his recently-deceased, estranged father. Featuring Amy Poehler, Edward Herrmann and Jenna Fischer.

Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson stars as "The Pharmacy" in “The Prince,” a crime thriller set in Las Vegas.

(Courtesy photo)

“If I Stay” (PG-13 for sexuality and mature themes) Chloe Grace Moretz stars in this adaptation of the Gayle Norman best-seller of the same name as a comatose cellist who experiences an out-of-body experience after a car accident leaves her suspended in limbo between life and death for 24 hours. With Mireille Enos, Stacy Keach and Jamie Blackley.

“Sin City: A Dame to Kill For” (Unrated) Eagerly-anticipated sequel, based on the second book in Frank Miller’s series of graphic novels, finds the denizens of the seedy metropolis crossing paths with some unsavory characters. Ensemble cast includes Josh Brolin, Mickey Rourke, Jessica Alba, Rosario Dawson, Bruce Willis, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Dennis Haysbert, Ray Liotta and Lady Gaga.

“When the Game Stands Tall” (PG for mature themes, brief smoking and one scene of violence) Overcoming-the-odds sports saga recounting the real-life exploits of Bob Ladouceur (Jim Caviezel), the legendary coach of the De La Salle High Spartans, the football team he turned from perennial alsorans into gridiron titans with a record-setting, 151-game winning streak. With Laura Dern, Michael Chiklis, Ser’Darius Blain, Stephan James and Alexander Ludwig.

INDEPENDENT & FOREIGN FILMS “14 Blades” (R for graphic violence) Martial arts drama, set during the Ming Dynasty, about a member of the imperial guard (Donnie Yen) on the run from an army of assassins after being betrayed by colleagues. With Wei Zhao, Chun Wu and Kate Tsui. (In Mandarin with subtitles) “I Am Happiness on Earth” (Unrated) Homoerotic drama, set in Mexico, about an aspiring filmmaker (Hugo Catalan) who cavalierly seduces and abandons a vulnerable dancer (Alan Ramirez) who already entered the relationship damaged goods. Co-starring Gabino Rodriguez, Andrea Portal and Ivan Alvarez. (In Spanish with subtitles)

“Jersey Shore Massacre” (R for sexuality, nudity, profanity, drug use and graphic violence) High attrition-rate horror flick about a weekend gone bad for a group of young revelers who end up on the run from a serial killer in the Pine Barrens after losing possession of their oceanfront rental. Ensemble cast includes Danielle Dallacco, Angelica Boccella, Giovanni Roselli and Chris Lazzaro.

“K2: Siren of the Himalayas” (Unrated) “We Try Harder” documentary about a mountain climbing team’s perilous trek to the top of the Earth’s 2nd highest peak.

“Kink” (Unrated) Sexual fetish documentary exploring bondage and sadomasochism as practiced by performers on the website Kink.com.

“Love Is Strange” (R for profanity) Dream deferred drama about a gay couple (John Lithgow and Alfred Molina) that finally gets to tie the knot after four decades together only to have to separate when they lose their home.

With Marisa Tomei, Cheyenne Jackson and Charlie Tahan.

“The One I Love” (R for profanity, sexuality and drug use) Romantic comedy revolving around a couple (Mark Duplass and Elisabeth Moss) whose weekend getaway intended to revitalize their flagging marriage instead has them confronting an unexpected dilemma.

With Ted Danson, and Oscar-winners Marlee Matlin (Children of a Lesser God) and Mary Steenburgen (Melvin and Howard).

“The Prince” (R for violence, profanity and

drug use) Crime thriller, set in Las Vegas, about a retired hit man (Jason Patric) who enlists the assistance of his BFF (John Cusack) to rescue his daughter (Jessica Lowndes) from the clutches of a former rival (Bruce Willis).

With 50 Cent, Rain and Gia Mantegna (Joe’s daughter).

“Salvo” (Unrated) Mob drama about a Mafia hit man (Saleh Bakri) who rethinks his line of work after being befriended by his latest victim’s blind sister (Sara Serraiocco). Support cast includes Luigi Lo Cascio, Mario Pupella and Jacopo Menicagli. (In Italian and Sicilian with subtitles) “See You Next Tuesday” (Unrated) Dysfunctional family dramedy, set in Brooklyn, about an unemployed, pregnant woman’s (Eleanore Pienta) toxic relationships with her mother (Dana Eskelson), her lesbian sister (Molly Plunk), and her sister’s live-in lover (Keisha Zollar). Support cast features Taylor Dior, Stephan Goldbach and Michele Meises.

“To Be Takei” (Unrated) Reverential retrospective about the life and career of George Takei, the actor best remembered as the original Star Trek’s Lieutenant Sulu.

“Winter in the Blood” (Unrated) Screen adaptation of the James Welch best-seller of the same name, set in Montana, about an alcoholic Native American’s (Chaske Spencer) self-destructive spiral in the wake of a series of family tragedies and personal setbacks.

Cast includes David Morse, Gary Farmer and Julia Jones.

Director Roger Donaldson is probably most closely associated with No Way Out, one of the best espionage thrillers ever made. The accomplished Australian revisits the genre with The November Man, though this picture pales in comparison to his ingenious, 1987 classic.

Nevertheless, Roger has crafted another labyrinthine, cat-and-mouse caper which miraculously manages to keep you on the edge of your seat despite an often-incoherent plotline, slapdash action sequences, and an inscrutable cast of characters with difficult to discern motivations. Overall, the adventure amounts to a dizzying head-scratcher which takes you on one helluva roller coaster ride, even if it might take a scorecard to keep the profusion of players straight.

Based on the Bill Granger best seller “There Are No Spies,” the movie stars Pierce Brosnan in the title role as Peter Devereaux, an ex-CIA Agent once code named “The November Man.” While he retired to Switzerland five years ago, it doesn’t take much to coax him out of the rocking chair to help extract Mira, (Nina Mrdja), a Russian double agent ready to come in out of the proverbial cold.

After all, they share a secret past which produced Lucy (Tara Jevrosimovic), a love child he misses terribly. However, the prospects of a father-daughter reunion are reduced significantly when Mira is shot in the head by a team of assassins led by David Mason (Luke Bracey), Peter’s former protégé in the CIA. What’s up with that? Did the Agency really want Mira dead? Or did David go rogue?

These are the questions left unanswered as Peter accepts another dangerous assignment, namely, the exfiltration from Moscow of Alice Fournier (Olga Kurylenko).

Alice is a pivotal witness for the prosecution set to testify in front of a war crimes tribunal about all the atrocities committed in Chechnya

by Arkady Federov (Lazar Ristovski). Trouble is Federov is Russia’s ruthless President-elect and isn’t about to let some social worker abort his rendezvous with destiny.

So, it’s not long after making Alice’s acquaintance that Peter realizes she has no shortage of angry adversaries, both Soviet, such as Federov’s acrobatic henchwoman (Amila Terzimehic), and American, like the CIA mole giving David his marching orders. Regardless, the peripatetic pair proceed to leave a messy trail of bloody bodies behind as they pick up longlost Lucy before making a daring escape to the West.

Vintage Brosnan!

Very Good (2.5 stars) Rated R for rape, profanity, sexuality, nudity, graphic violence and brief drug use In English and Russian with subtitles Running time: 108 minutes Distributor: Relativity Media

Tri-State Defender

Page 9

August 28 - September 3, 2014

COMMUNITY BRIEFS & THINGS State recognizes 39 SCS as Reward Schools for top achievement, growth County Schools (SCS) has 39 schools on the Reward list, which is composed of the top 5 percent of schools in the state for academic achievement and the top 5 percent for student growth, according to a recently released annual Reward Schools list from the Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE). SCS has six more schools on the Reward list than the combined legacy districts had a year ago.

Middle College High School is the only school in Shelby County to make the Reward list for both progress and performance and one of only 17 in Tennessee.

“The progress we've highlighted this week is extremely encouraging, with 15 schools coming off the Priority list and now increasing our total of Reward Schools,” said SCS Superintendent Dorsey Hopson. “We have very ambitious strategic goals for this District, and this news provides momentum to address the challenges we still face in helping all schools reach similar heights.”

The TDOE interviewed all Reward Schools to compile best practices for schools across the state. “Learning From The Best: Promising Practices from Tennessee’s 2013 Reward Schools” identifies themes and promising practices in leadership, instruction and school climate.

Carver Class of 1964 slates its 50th reunion The George Washington Th Carver High School Class of 1964 is hosting its 50th class reunion Aug. 29-31 at Hilton Memphis, 939 Ridge Lake Blvd.

The school is located at 1519 Pennsylvania St. The “Home of the Mighty Cobras,” it was founded in 1957.

For more information, contact Sheila Cabbage-Fisher at (901) 289-5777 or by email at fishers310@aol.com, or Howard Averyhart at (901) 230-3571.

Kick off September with Art on Tap! The Dixon Gallery and Gardens is inviting the public to experience the original and best beer tasting in Memphis, Art on Tap! on Friday, Sept. 5 at 6 p.m. With live music by Hollywood, delicious food from local restaurants and the greatest beer in Memphis and beyond, this is an evening not to be missed.

This year's Art on Tap will feature selections from Bluff City Brewers & Connoisseurs, Boscos Squared, Buster’s Liquors & Wines, Dogfish Head Brewery, Founders Brewing Company, Lagunitas, High Cotton Brewing Company, Lazy Magnolia, Memphis Brewer’s Association, Oskar Blues Brewery, Schlafly, SweetWater Brewing Company, and Southern Prohibition.

Memphis’ biggest restaurant names including Rock 'n' Dough Pizza, One and Only BBQ, Boscos, Gus's Fried Chicken, Frost Bake Shop, CFY Catering, and Celtic Crossing will provide selections from their menus.

Attendees can also enjoy the return of an Art on Tap favorite, “Hops-icles,” refreshing adult popsicles by CFY Catering.

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online at www.dixon.org. Prices are $30 for Dixon members, $40 for non-Dixon members and $40 for event day tickets. Each ticket admits one person to enjoy unlimited tastings of beer and food. Wine tasting tickets are also available for an additional $10.

Young at Art is a unique membership group for young professionals who are interested in broadening their cultural horizons in a social setting.

For more information about Young at Art, please call Sarah Lorenz at (901) 312-1241 or www.dixon.org.

Cong. Cohen announces $1.1 million for the U of M Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) announced recently four federal grants totaling $1,125,168 in funding for several projects at the University of Memphis. This funding comes through the National Science Foundation (NSF).

“I am pleased with this fed-

eral investment in the University of Memphis and their talented scholars,” said Cohen.

The announcement includes funding for the following University of Memphis projects: • $586,608 in funding for the “Career: Catalytic Production of H2 from Water by Molecular Metal Complexes with Pentadentate Ligands” project • $364,864 in funding for the “Collaborative Project: Puzzle-Based Cybersecurity Learning to Enhance Defensive Skills of Front-Line Technicians” project • $108,725 in funding for the “Measuring and modeling postseismic deformation processes of Andaman Islands” project • $64,971 in funding for the “GOALI: Application of Wave Gradiometry to Exploration Seismology” project MPD looking to hire top recruits The Memphis Police Department Employment/Recruiting Unit is now hiring for a recruit class slated to start February 2015. Professional, diverse, and highly qualified applicants seeking a career with Memphis Finest should apply now.

Applicants should possess the following qualifications: • A U.S. Citizen • 21 years of age • High school diploma/GED • Valid Driver’s License • Must establish Shelby County residency within 6 months of hire • No guilty pleas or felony convictions • No addiction to drugs or alcohol Also, each applicant should have the minimum requirements.

• 54 Semester Hours at a Regionally Accredited College or University with a grade of C or better, • Two years of continuous Military Service with an honorable discharge stipulated on DD214, or, • Three years of continuous employment as a POST certified law enforcement patrol officer at a police department with a minimum of 20 officers (Lateral Entry Only) All interested individuals who qualify may apply by picking up an application at one of the nine (9) police stations located throughout the city.

Completed applications must be returned in person to the Memphis Police Department Training Academy, located at 4371 O.K. Robertson Road. Applicants who reside outside a 100-mile radius of Memphis can download the application from http://mpdacademy.com/index.php and mail it in to the Memphis Police Training Academy.

You can also get helpful information regarding benefits, salaries, and recruit class schedules.

Applicants should submit their applications by Sept.

19th to be considered for the February 2015 class.

Frontier Airlines to add MEM-DFW service in Oct. Frontier Airlines announced recently that it is adding six weekly flights between Memphis International Airport (MEM) and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), beginning Oct. 26.

Frontier is promoting these new flights with fares as low as $39 each way. The airline’s introductory fares are available for flights through March 1, 2015, and include all taxes and transportation fees. This special offer is available only at the company’s website, FlyFrontier.com, through Aug. 30 at 10:59 p.m. (CST).

“Competition is the magic ointment for affordable airfare pricing,” said Jack Sammons, chairman of the MemphisShelby County Airport Authority’s Board of Commissioners. “Frontier’s announcement brings an exciting lowcost option for passengers traveling between Memphis and Dallas.”

The flights will run on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday. Frontier launched nonstop flights between Denver and Memphis in March and will add nonstop flights to Washington-Dulles in September. Passenger response has been strong to the Denver flights, with more than 95 percent of available seats filled.

The Convoy of Hope Mid-South volunteers prepare groceries for thousands in 2013.

Convoy of Hope expects to feed more than 8,000 ‘Hope’ is the operative word for the countless men, women and children who go hungry each day in the Mid-South. The Convoy of Hope Mid-South is making a difference by feeding more than 5,000 each year.

by Wiley Henry whenry@tsdmemphis.com

O

ne in five people in the MidSouth go hungry and one in four are children. Thirty percent of senior citizens live alone and are deprived of food. Also, more than 250,000 people in the Mid-South receive food stamps.

These glaring statistics prompted organizations like The Convoy of Hope Mid-South, a nonprofit corporation, to rally its volunteers, churches and other helping hands to help feed the hungry by distributing truckloads of donated food items.

This is the fifth consecutive year that the organization will serve those in need in the Mid-South. “Hope” for those in need will begin Saturday at 10 a.m. at the Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium and Fairgrounds, 940 Early Maxwell.

On that day, The Convoy of Hope Mid-South and over 200 area churches, service agencies, businesses, and medical service providers will extend a helping hand to an estimated 8,000 to 10,000 struggling families, single moms, the underprivileged, and the unemployed.

The Convoy of Hope was founded in 1984 and headquartered in Springfield, Mo. A Christian organization, it was conceived to meet the physical and spiritual needs of the poor and underprivileged in the United States and around the world.

Last year, more than 7,500 people took advantage of Convoy’s generosity and the hundreds of volunteers who served them. It’s a job that coordinator Cheryl Bone is passionate about. “If I didn’t have passion for the job, I wouldn’t do it,” she said.

More than 5,000 bags of groceries were distributed last year, said Bone, who embraces the concept of charity in addition to teaching people how to survive.

“I’m passionate about feeding people,” she said. “But I believe in teaching a person to fish. You don’t just give a person a fish.”

Teaching is part of the organization’s mission. “We teach the city how to collaborate together,” Bone said. “We work all across the Mid-South.”

The team leaders, Bone said, work together, stay together, and pray for Memphis even after thousands of men, women and children are fed that day.

“We go right from Convoy into a couple more events,” Bone said. “We’re very involved.”

Struggling families, single moms, the underprivileged, and the unemployed in the Mid-South are expected to take part in The Convoy of Hope’s groceries give-a-way on Sept. 6.

(Courtesy photos)

Memphis Central High Class of ’89 hosts donor awareness drive The Central High School Class (CHS) of ’89 is partnering with MidSouth Transplant Foundation (MSTF) and Lifeblood to host an organ and tissue donor registry drive and blood drive during their 25th Reunion Saturday, Aug. 30th, at the school at 306 Bellevue.

The drive is from 9 a.m. – noon with a speaker and Q & A session to begin in the school gym at 10:30 a.m. Two students will be honored from the Class of ’89: Kimberly Fitch, who passed away three years ago (Her donated organs helped save the lives of four people) and Jacqueline R. Waller, who is currently in need of a kidney transplant.

Helen Lewis, Kimberly Fitch’s mother, is a donor. Those who’re waiting for a kidney include Angela Gordon, who is waiting for another kidney; and Brain Clay, former CHS student.

The drive is also intended to raise awareness for people in the community to register to be organ and tissue donors and to donate blood. C.J. Harris is the volunteer coordinator for the Mid-South Transplant Foundation.

“We are the Class of 1989 of THE HIGH SCHOOL, and we’ve made a difference!” said Waller, noting that the community service project seeks to honor the lives of those classmates who are no longer with them.

There are currently more than 123,259 individuals on the national waiting list for an organ transplant. The vast majority is waiting for a kidney due to the high percentage of high blood pressure and diabetes. Sadly, 18 people will die today and every day while waiting for an organ.

One person can donate up to eight solid organs and enhance another 50 or

more people with tissue donations.

MSTF is the not-for-profit federally designated organ procurement organization (OPO) for the Mid-South area including Memphis and parts of eastern Arkansas, northern Mississippi and western Tennessee. For information or to register, visit www.midsouthtransplant.org or call (901) 328-4438.

Lifeblood is the area’s leading provider of blood and blood components to area hospitals, supplying more than 100,000 units for local patient transfusions each year. Lifeblood is a member of America Blood Centers, an alliance of community-based non-profit blood centers.

For more information, visit www.lifeblood.org or call (901) 5296320 or 1-888-LIFEBLOOD. The mobile blood van will be on the school parking lot from 9 a.m. – noon.

Page 10

Tri-State Defender

August 28 - September 3, 2014

CLASSIFIEDS Legal Notices PUBLIC NOTICE Shelby County Department of Housing (SCDH) is preparing its Consolidated Annual Performance Report (CAPER) for the program year that began July 1, 2013 and ended June 30, 2014. The CAPER is required by the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development to describe CDBG and HOME program activities undertaken by SCDH to address housing and community development needs, especially in low- and moderateincome areas of Shelby County, outside the City of Memphis.

The CAPER will be available for public review Tuesday August 26, 2014 - Wednesday September 10, 2014 at the office of SCDH (1075 Mullins Station Rd., Memphis, TN 38134), the Arlington Public Library, the Collierville Public Library, the Germanton Public Library, the Millington Public Library, and the following branches of the Memphis & Shelby County Public Library: Benjamin L. Hooks and Bartlett. The CAPER may also be reviewed on the Shelby County website: www.shelbycountytn.gov To gain access to the CAPER on line, click on the Housing link under Departments and then click on the “Community Development Block Grant” link to access the CAPER. To solicit comment on the CAPER, SCDH will host a public hearing on Tuesday, September 9, 2014 at 5:30 p.m. at the Shelby County East Complex, Peggy Edmiston Administration Building, Room W-263, 1075 Mullins Station Road, Memphis, TN 38134. Attendees should enter the building through SCDH's entrance (the door in the center wing on the west side of the complex). Additionally, written comments or suggestions will be accepted through 4:30 p.m. September 10, 2014 and should be directed to Mr. Scott Walkup at Shelby County Department of Housing, 1075 Mullins Station Road, Memphis, TN 38134.

SCDH will respond to all written comments within 15 working days of receipt.

For questions concerning the public hearing or CAPER, please contact the Department of Housing at 901-222-7600 or TTY at 901222-2300.

Those with special needs that plan to attend the public hearing are encouraged to contact SCDH at (901) 222-7600 or TTY at 901- 222-2300 by 4:30 p.m. Thursday September 4, 2014 and we will work to accommodate you.

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The Shelby County Board of Education will be accepting written proposals for CNC – RFI Vending Machine Integrated with Horizon Software.

Visit our website for additional information: www.scsk12.org-Departments, Procurement Services link, click on Bids & RFPs.

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For additional information contact Sales Dept. at (901) 746-5201 or email: advertising@tri-

MINACT, Incorporated – Finch-Henry Job Corps Center Vacancy Announcements These positions require a valid driver’s license and drug screening.

Competitive salary and excellent benefits.

CARPENTRY INSTRUCTOR Graduate from an accredited college, university or vocational school preferred. Must possess or be eligible to obtain certificate, license or other legal credentials required by state law, regulation or contract. Two years of experience in the trade and/or vocational area of instruction.

SUBSTITUTE CULINARY ARTS INSTRUCTOR Bachelor Degree required. Three years experience in commercial or institutional food preparation or two years experience as a Food Service Training Instructor required.

OR Associate Degree required with Vocational teacher Certification. Seven years experience in commercial or institutional food preparation or three years experience as a Food Service Training Instructor required..

You may apply Monday – Friday in the Human Resources Office you may send resume to ATTN: Sonyama Jackson, Human Resources Specialist 821 Highway 51 S. Batesville, MS 38606 662.563.4656 ext. 220 Jackson.Sonyama@jobcorps.org EOE

M/F/Disability/Vet

favor llame al 901-222-4289.

The Shelby County Department of Housing does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age or disability in employment or provision of services. Equal opportunity/equal ac-

Shelby County Schools – Procurement Services

NOTICE TO BIDDERS In order to participate in the bid listed below for Shelby County Government, you must be registered with our electronic bidding system with Mercury Commerce.

County bids are not available by mail or downloaded directly from the County website, unless otherwise indicated in the solicitation invitation. All vendors who wish to bid are required to register with Mercury Commerce Solutions in order to be notified of on-line bids. There is no charge for registration, and it is easy to use. To register: • Go to www.esmsolutions.com • Go to “Vendors” block at top • Click “Register Now” box • Click on “Mercury Commerce Vendor Registration” line • Complete Vendor Registration process • Submit If you have any questions about the registration process, contact ESM Solutions at (877) 969-7246. If you have any questions about information contained in the bid documents, contact the Purchasing Department at (901) 222-2250 and ask to speak to the Buyer listed for the bid.

SEALED BID DUE FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014 AT 2:30 PM

cess provider.

Mark H. Luttrell, Jr. Shelby County Mayor Attest: Jim Vazquez, Administrator

According to The Urban Child Institute, babies and toddlers need to hear a lot of words and a wide variety of them to help shape their understanding of the world around them.

Questions concerning proposals should be addressed to Procurement Services at (901) 416-3508.

VARIOUS VEHICLES – SHELBY COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT (SB# I000277) (MC# 463)

By order of MARK H. LUTTRELL JR., MAYOR SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT

NOTICE TO BIDDERS In order to participate in the bid listed below for Shelby County Government, you must be registered with our electronic bidding system with Mercury Commerce.

County bids are not available by mail or downloaded directly from the County website, unless otherwise indicated in the solicitation invitation. All vendors who wish to bid are required to register with Mercury Commerce Solutions in order to be notified of on-line bids. There is no charge for registration, and it is easy to use. To register: • Go to www.esmsolutions.com • Go to “Vendors” block at top • Click “Register Now” box • Click on “Mercury Commerce Vendor Registration” line • Complete Vendor Registration process • Submit If you have any questions about the registration process, contact ESM Solutions at (877) 969-7246. If you have any questions about information contained in the bid documents, contact the Purchasing Department at (901) 222-2250 and ask to speak to the Buyer listed for the bid.

SEALED BID DUE FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014 AT 2:30 PM POLICE PURSUIT MOTORCYCLES (SB-I000278) (MC# 464) By order of MARK H. LUTTRELL JR., MAYOR SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT

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Why raising a ‘Chatty Cathy’ isn’t a bad thing

by Tarrin McGhee Special to the Tri-State Defender

Language and speech development is an early milestone that is vital for all infants to reach in order to promote healthy progression into childhood and to encourage school readiness.

The words and sounds that they hear, things that they see and experience, and positive interactions with parents all contribute to how Tarrin rapidly language and speech McGhee development will occur for young children.

To promote optimal outcomes—proper diction, robust vocabulary, and the ability to clearly articulate what they want and need—it is important for parents to create a rich language environment for their child.

It is critical for a child to learn how to use her words to communicate feelings, emotions, and desires instead of relying on the instinct to cry and whine for attention and affection.

The effects of talking with your infant are far-reaching.

According to The Urban Child Institute, babies and toddlers need to hear a lot of words and a wide variety of them to help shape their understanding of the world around them. And the amount and type of words that a child hears are also driving factors for healthy language development and use.

A study conducted by Betty Hart, Ph.D. and Todd Risly, Ph.D. from the University of Kansas on the effects of talking to children on their eventual academic achievement shows a direct link to the amount of words spoken in the home from birth to age three. The study suggests that young children need to hear 30,000 words in the first three years of life to achieve optimal academic success by the third grade and to keep up with their peers.

There are several ways that parents can work to cultivate language and speech development, starting even before birth. Many parents unknowingly initiate the process for healthy language and speech development to occur when they begin talking to their baby while still in the womb.

It’s never too soon to start communicating with your child.

In fact, research proves that the earlier the better as positive interactions – both verbal and non-verbal - during early childhood have a huge impact on a child’s overall social and emotional well-being.

To promote healthy language development and use, here are a few simple action steps that

parents can take.

Explain your activities – as you are caring for your baby, and talk to them about what you are doing. For instance, during routine feedings, diaper changes, or bath time describe the process by using words to narrate what is happening.

Listen and respond – when your baby signals a need for care (initially by crying), respond attentively with words like: “what’s the matter with my baby?” or “mommy’s coming sweetheart”. This allows baby to feel nurtured and loved and helps to shape her own understanding of how words are used to address and meet daily needs.

Encourage interaction and feedback – ask your baby questions about what she is doing, seeing, and/or how she is feeling at any given moment. Research shows that asking questions and using more complex language promotes the size and growth of children’s vocabulary. It also nurtures their own inquisitive instinct, which allows room for early exploration and discovery.

Read to your child – simply talking to your child can and should be supplemented with frequent reading. There is real power in the ritual of reading a bedtime story, beyond utilizing it to help your child fall asleep. The Urban Child Institute has determined that even in a baby’s first year, shared book reading promotes subsequent language abilities. Reading to your child also gives her a heads up with developing reading comprehension and literacy skills.

Touch and agree – use objects found in and around the home to promote early learning.

Point to something such as a toy, blanket, or food item and tell your child what it is. As early language development begins to occur, encourage your child to repeat what she heard you say, and do the same for her once she is able to verbally identify and acknowledge objects on her own.

Recognize that every word matters –remain mindful and cautious about the type of words and language that you choose to use around your baby. Remember that the use of harsh commands, negative statements, and swear words can actually hinder language development in young children.

Consistent communication and positive verbal interactions promote optimal brain development in early childhood.

In the first three years of life babies’ brains are like sponges, soaking up everything within their environment to establish a mental foundation for future learning.

As a child matures beyond infancy and approaches preschool, the amount of ‘talking’ she engaged in from birth will have a significant impact on future academic achievement and overall success in life.

So parents should not be concerned if your child becomes a ‘Chatty Cathy.’ Remember that her talkative and inquisitive nature will serve her well in the long run.

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SPORTS Tri-State Defender, Thursday, August 28 - September 3, 2014, Page 11

Is Stephen Curry a better offensive player than LeBron James?

Special to The New Tri-State Defender from the AFRO Sports Desk

Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry generated an instant headline recently when he declared himself a better offensive player than four-time MVP LeBron James. When asked on the Dan Patrick Show who was the better offensive player, Curry, known for his accurate stroke, replied, “Me.” James has dominated the league over the last few years, guiding the Miami Heat to four consecutive finals appearances. Curry may have a point, however.

He’s evolved into one of the most dangerous offensive threats in the league in just a few short seasons.

By far, James is the better player. But offensively, Curry’s argument seems pretty valid.

Perry Green and Stephen D. Riley of the AFRO Sports Desk debate just how valid that statement may be.

Riley: Curry is easily more skilled offensively than James. His handle is tighter, his shot is better, and his hardwood IQ is just as sharp as any blue chip NBA star. You’re never going to opt for James to take an open shot over Curry. The 2014 NBA All Star can fill it up, evidenced by his selection this year. He’s been taught well by his father, Dell Curry, and his fundamentals in every offensive portion of his game are solid.

Green: Curry might be better skilled but James can take over games and that aspect to me makes him the better offensive player by default. James’ size, speed, and athleticism give him the perfect combination to attack any style of defense. His post game has continued to mature under the Heat organization and the range on his jumper continues to strengthen. He’s the ultimate player in the NBA and the fact that he can control a game once he gets hot gives any team he’s on a chance to cut deficits or blow games wide open.

For all his skills, a bigger defender can often take Curry out of his game. At his size and conditioning, James is indefensible.

Riley: James’ size is always going to win him any argument, but if we’re talking pound-for-pound and who’s the most skilled then I can’t see how it isn’t Curry. He’s already one of the best, but put Curry in James’ body and what kind of devastating player would you have? I would put Curry against anybody in any type of three-point shooting or skills-type competition. Would James really be the best player in the world if he wasn’t dominating defenders with his size?

Green: Quite possibly. James’ floor game and basketball intellect make him just as much the terror on the court as his physical prowess. The reason he’s such an outstanding player is based more on his wellrounded game than anything else. Curry’s skills are outstanding but he’s never going to be the force that James is, nor will he match his leadership skills. A few years ago, this would have been a loaded question. However, after years of growing up and reshaping his floor game, James is now the ideal player because he just exceeds at everything that has to do with basketball. I may not like LeBron James very much, but I will respect his skillset. I can say this: I would rather watch Stephen Curry shoot 40-foot jumpers any time over LeBron’s game. It’s just something attractive about the long-ball shot. But when we talk offensive efficiency, King James comes second to no one.

A glimpse from last season of The University of Memphis Tiger football team is embedded in the minds of football fans but is now a thing of the past as Tiger Head Coach Justin Fuente and his team gear up for their season opener on Saturday (Aug. 30) facing Austin Peay and the Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium. (File photo: Kelley D. Evans)

University of Memphis Tigers gear up for season opener

by Kelley D. Evans kdevans@tsdmemphis.com

After two straight losing seasons, the folks over at The University of Memphis told everyone to “Wait ‘Til This Year.”

Well now it’s time to put this slogan into action. The Tiger football team will open their season on Saturday (Aug. 30) to Austin Kelley D. Peay at the Liberty Evans Bowl Memorial Stadium.

On Monday Head Coach Justin Fuente addressed the media in his first game-week media luncheon.

“We’re finally here,” Fuente said.

“We are obviously excited to start this season. Our kids have worked extremely hard through spring practice and into the summertime and through two-a-

days. I know they’re anxious to get on the football field and prove how much we’ve improved. We’ve got a long season ahead of us and we’re all anxious.”

The main proponent that Memphis is lacking is consistency on offense.

“We need a group of guys, who can exhibit the ability to execute on a consistent basis,” Fuente added. “That’s the charge for many of our guys. We have to do a good job of preparing and being ready to play at a high level. We have to be able to make routine plays on a consistent basis.”

Fuente says he is anxious to see how the team plays in the season opener.

“I want to see how we play,” he said.

“I’m going to judge our guys on the way we execute, how we handle adversity and how we play. Is it important to get off to a good start? Yes, but if we don’t, it’s not the end of the world. I want to see us play.

There will be game situations for guys that have never been out there before. I want to see us execute and be a disciplined football team and we’ll let the rest take care of it-

self.”

Tickets are on sale now for the seasonopener and can be purchased at 42 Krogerarea stores. For the second year in a row the University of Memphis has joined forces with Kroger to sell $5 football tickets in support of the "Million Meals Challenge."

The University Athletic Department will donate $1 from each ticket. If all 10,000 tickets that have been allocated to Kroger are sold, proceeds will result in 80,000 meals for needy families.

"Our desire is for the University of Memphis football home opener to become an annual community event," Director of Athletics Tom Bowen said. "We are proud to partner with our friends at Kroger to offer $5 tickets to our fans and make a donation to our friends and neighbors who are in need at the same time."

Game day festivities on Aug. 30 will begin at 2:30 p.m. at the stadium with live music, inflatables, Tiger Walk, games, giveaways and all the traditional tailgating festivities.

Titans fans – are you ready some football?

Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (Courtesy photo)

by Kelley D. Evans kdevans@tsdmemphis.com

Four-time MVP LeBron James. (Photo Warren Roseborough)

The Tennessee Titans are on the road for just one more preseason game before the regular NFL season begins. The Titans season-opener kicks off at noon on Sunday (Sept. 7) during an away game against the Kansas City Chiefs.

The Titans are 2-1 thus far in the preseason, with a victory last week over the Atlanta Falcons (24-17). Tennessee was behind 17-3 until they burst out with 21 points.

Titans quarterback Jake Locker finished with 188 yards connecting to receiver Nate Washington for one touch down. His 63yard touchdown added to Washington’s stats, who topped all receivers with 94 yards. Locker ranks fourth in AFC passers and sixth among NFL quarterbacks throughout the preseason.

The Titans offense as a whole has been effective throughout August. The unit is fourth in the NFL in total offense (375.0 yards per game), third in passing offense (266.3 yards per game), fourth on third down (48.6 percent), third in team passer

rating (105.7) and first in efficiency inside the 20 (six touchdowns on six possessions).

Another cut coming soon In a press release issued by the Tennessee Titans, the team revealed that they recently had to cut their roster from 90 players to 75 players. After Thursday’s game they will have to bring their roster down to 53 players to start the regular season.

In addition to the 53-man active roster, the Titans are allowed to establish a 10player practice squad. Players placed on reserve lists such as Injured Reserve, Physically Unable to Perform and Reserve/Suspended do not count towards the 53-man active roster limit.

The schedule is packed with many games to look forward to. Tennessee will be featured on Monday Night Football against long-time rival the Pittsburgh Steelers at LP Field on November 17. The Titan’s home opener will be played against the Dallas Cowboys on September 14. The Titans also will appear in a Thursday night primetime contest at Jacksonville to battle the Jaguars on December 18.

“I am excited for our fans to get a Monday Night game, Titans Head Coach Ken Whisenhunt said. “Those games create a great deal of energy and excitement in a town and I am looking forward to seeing the atmosphere for that game.”

The Titans’ schedule also features home games against the Cleveland Browns, the New York Giants, the New York Jets, Jacksonville, Houston and Indianapolis.

Tennessee will travel to Kansas City, Cincinnati, Washington, Baltimore, Philadelphia, Houston, Jacksonville and Indianapolis.

“As always with an NFL schedule, you never know what you are going to get,” Whisenhunt added. “There are a number of things to like, but obviously we have a tough start with three of the first four on the road and three of them playoff teams from last year. It will give us a chance to find out a lot about our football team.

The good thing is that maybe it will create a sense of urgency with our team in the offseason workouts and training camp. We know what faces us and we must come together as a team and create those bonds.”

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August 28 - September 3, 2014

Tri-State Defender