9 5 2012

VOL. 61, No. 35

August 30 - September 5, 2012

www.tsdmemphis.com

75 Cents

Rare but real: African-American Republicans Special to the Tri-State Defender

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell As members of the Mississippi delegation stepped into the limelight on Monday to cast their votes in what essentially was the coronation of Mitt Romney as the GOP standard bearer, Dr. Freda McKissic Bush was up front and she stood out.

Bush, a physician from Jackson, Miss., is a rarity at the Republican

National Convention in storm-tinged Tampa, Fla. She’s an African American – one of the few – and determined to set the record straight regarding what African-American Republicans are about. On Wednesday (Aug. 28), Bush and several colleagues spent the afternoon in the CNN news hub, where a throng of media personnel set up.

“Our message to the African-American community is that the Republi-

can Party is not a party of racists.

‘Conservatism’ is not code for racism,” said Bush. “We are working to recapture the values we all believe are important.”

While African Americans are a small part of the overall convention crowd, several of them – former Sec. of State Condoleeza Rice, former Alabama Congressman and President Obama supporter Artur Davis, and Utah Congressional candidate Mia

Love – have manned prominent speaking roles.

Bush is comfortable with her party of choice. “…One of the youngest delegates is a 24-year-old African American who is attending law school. Her mother got pregnant at age 16. But that didn’t stop her from doing everything she could to ensure that her daughter enjoyed every advantage. A strong work ethic and valuing a qual-

ity education are very much a part of the Republican Party platform,” said Bush.

“This year’s convention is generating such excitement and hope because we are bracing for a hard fight, a fight to return to the values of our parents and foreparents. A strong bond of unity and optimism has been building across the week. We are in SEE GOP ON PAGE 2

Domino effects of debt:

Student loans trigger financial stress from students to retirees

ANALYSIS NNPA News Service

by Charlene Crowell

When this year’s student debt burden surpassed the $1 trillion mark, it became even larger than the amount of debt held on credit cards. New findings now conclude that heavy student loan debt delays the ability of young graduates to buy a home and in the worst scenarios, strips Social Security benefits and even disability income also known as Supplemental Security Income.

There has been a 46 percent increase in average debt held at graduation from 2000 to 2010. Moreover, total outstanding debt held by the public has skyrocketed 511 percent over the past decade,” according to “Denied: The Impact of Student Debt on the Ability to Buy a House,” a new research paper by the Young Invincibles, a national youth advocacy group.

Their research shows that the challenges of becoming a homeowner are magnified with student debt. Student loan debt has been rising much more rapidly than salaries for college graduates. When researchers compared salaries of the typical single student loan borrower to the cost of a medianpriced house, they concluded that potential borrowers with a student loan and average consumer debt are not likely to qualify for a mortgage. If a married couple carries a double burden of student debt, it becomes even harder to qualify.

Although student loans are usually considered to be a problem for young people, the reality is that many seniors share the same debt dilemma. According to the Treasury Department in early 2012, people ages 60 and older owed $2.2 million on student loans that were 90 days or more past due.

As a result by Aug. 6, Treasury reduced benefit payments on Social Security checks for 115,000 retirees.

Legally, the share of benefits withheld can be as high as 15 percent.

In 2005, the United States Supreme Court upheld two federal laws that enable the government to take money from federal benefits to make student loan payments. The Higher Education Technical Amendments Act allows the federal government to collect funds without statutory limitations from defaulters.

A second and related act, the Debt Collection Improvement Act, authorSEE DEBT ON PAGE 5

MEMPHIS WEEKEND

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

H- 8 7o - L - 7 6o H- 8 9o - L - 7 4o H- 9 1o - L - 7 4o Scat. T-Storms Scat. T-Storms Iso. T-Storms REGIONAL TEMPS LITTLE ROCK NASHVILLE JACKSON, MS

Friday H-84 L-75 H-90 L-73 H-87 L-74

Saturday H-89 L-74 H-86 L-74 H-89 L-73

Sunday H-96 L-74 H-84 L-72 H-90 L-73

What’s up?...

Gettin’ ready...

Fans of the University of Memphis Tigers got an early look at a new video board, with a state-of-the-art sound system, and other improvements to Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium on Tuesday (Aug. 28). The Tigers host UT-Martin in the season-opener on Saturday. See related story in Sports, page 14. (Photo by Warren Roseborough)

Mayor AC Wharton Jr. (left) greets Vivian Frye, the manager of the Walgreens at Elvis Presley and Raines, during a Southern Heritage Classic Appreciation Day Event (Aug. 25) as the Classicʼs founder, Fred Jones, makes the introduction. SHC weekend is Sept. 6-9.

(Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)

Memphis a pack leader in ‘reward’ schools

Memphis is leading the state….

If your first thought was to complete that fragment with a negative, then think again. In this case, the facts point to an embraceable positive.

Memphis is leading the state with the highest number (20) of “reward” schools. That would be schools with students who scored in the top five percent on end-of-year exams, and made the largest gains over three years.

For the record, those 20 schools are: A. Maceo Walker, Alton Elemen-

tary, Campus School at the University of Memphis, Charjean Elementary, Craigmont Middle, Crump Elementary, Doubletree Elementary, Evans Elementary, Georgian Hills Middle, Hollis F. Price Middle College High at the LeMoyne-Owen College, Ida B. Wells Academy, Jackson Elementary, Kingsbury Middle, Middle College High, Newberry Elementary, Raineshaven Elementary, Raleigh-Bartlett Meadow Elementary, Ridgeway High, Shadowlawn Middle and Vollentine Elementary.

Four county schools – Dogwood

Elementary, Ellendale Elementary, Lowrance Elementary and Shadowlawn Middle – are in the ‘reward” category. Freedom Preparatory Academy is the only charter school in the city of Memphis included on the list.

Campus Elementary and Hollis F. Price were the two Memphis schools with scores that landed in the top 5 percent. In Germantown, Dogwood Elementary hit that mark.

Gov. Bill Haslam and Education Commissioner Kevin Huffman on

- INSIDE • Urban League way off on Lebron, Niket. See Opinion, page 4.

• Nielsen VP touts research value to business owners.

See Business, page 7.

• Elliot Perry spices Celebrity Sports Breakfast.

See Sports, page 14.

SEE SCHOOLS ON PAGE 5

‘Amazing Race’ open call for Mid-South thrill-seekers

WREG News Channel 3 is holding an “Amazing Race” Open Call at the Delta Fair & Music Festival on Sept.

9 inside the Agricenter International from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Thrill-seekers looking for adventure will have a chance to represent the Mid-South on the show for a future season.

“The Amazing Race has a strong following. There is no doubt, the chance to compete for the adventure of a lifetime will create a lot of ex-

citement,” said Ron Walter, president and general manager for WREG News Channel 3.

The eligibility requirements are posted on the Delta Fair & Music Festival page at WREG.com. Those eligible should come with the partner they intend to compete with in the show if they are chosen Each team will be comprised of two members who will each receive a free “Amazing Race” Open Call T-shirt,

compliments of the Delta Fair, while supplies last.

WREG News Channel 3 will tape and submit each team’s audition segment, which can be no longer than one minute. The “Amazing Race” is an eight-time Emmy Award-winning hit reality series on the CBS Network. Eleven teams are pitted against each other on a competitive adventure around the world. The grand prize is $1 million.

Maya Angelou

• Worthy of praise, Dr. Maya Angelou heaps thanks on others. See Community, page 13.

NEWS

Page 2

Tri-State Defender

August 30 - September 5, 2012

Ex-Obama ally on switch to GOP

Dr. Freda McKissic Bush was in the spotlight as the Mississippi delegation weighed in on the nomination process that made former Mass. Gov. Mitt Romney the partyʼs nominee and the challenger to President Barack Obama.

GOP

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

this fight to win. We hope to celebrate a newly elected president in November – our candidate, Mitt Romney…”

In explaining her politics, Bush notes that growing up “80 percent of the families we knew had a mother, a father and children in the home. My father was a preacher, and he used to tell us that any job – legal, ethical, and moral – was a good job. People in our community are better helped with job creation, adequate education and training. More handouts to more people is not the right answer.

“We leave this convention with a new determination,” said Bush. “We believe that our message and our mission will move this nation forward.”

‘Recall the genesis’

Thousands of AfricanAmerican Republicans are members of the National Black Republican Association (NBRA) and they’ve mounted a campaign in African-American communities. Billboards bearing the image of Dr. Mar-

tin Luther King Jr. have sprung up in myriad big cities and small towns. The sign reads: “Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a Republican.”

African-American Republicans, Bush said, have a very unique role to play in the larger political party. “Myths which characterize the party as racist” must be dispelled, she said.

“It was actually the Republican Party that supported the freeing of the slaves,” said Bush. “The Democrats fought to hold on to the institution.

From the very first, Republicans stood up for blacks and advocated for their freedom.

We as a party must recall the genesis.”

Democrats expand entitlement programs and nothing is ever free, said Bush. “There is no such thing as a ‘free’ check.

In the long run, handouts don’t motivate people to go out and find work.”

‘Huge love fest’

In-climate weather that featured hard-and-heavy rain and strong winds greeted convention-goers to Tampa, but never dampened spirits,” said Renee’ Amoore, deputy chairwoman of the Pennsylvania Republi-

BRIEFLY: Republican National Committee National Committeeman John Ryder of Memphis was one of two Tennesseans tapped to serve as an officer for the Republican National

can Party.

“It’s just been a huge love fest. Delegates are uniting across race and gender lines in one common purpose – to see Mitt Romney take the White House at this very critical time in our nation’s history.”

According to Moore, Romney is the only candidate who can get the country moving in the right direction. Moore, who owns three businesses, one of which, she said, provides jobs and generates a multi-milliondollar annual income.

“As a business owner, it has been my experience that job opportunities are created by small businesses and entrepreneurs, not big corporations and big government,” said Moore.

“Too many regulations and interference from the federal government does not encourage growth. We don’t know what Obamacare is going to actually cost us. New jobs are not created when business owners aren’t sure what healthcare for employees will cost.”

Both parties want to see the economy begin to grow again, Moore said. ”We want the same things. We just have different processes to accomplish that end.”

Convention. Ryder was named assistant parliamentarian. Lance Frizzell, state executive committee member, was named the convention’s tally clerk.

Mia Love takes her stand

Let me tell you about the America I know. My parents immigrated to the U.S. with ten dollars in their pocket, believing that the America they had heard about really did exist. When times got tough they didn’t look to Washington, they looked within.

So the America I came to know was centered in personal responsibility and filled with the American dream.

The America I know is grounded in the determination found in patriots and pioneers, in small business owners with big ideas, in the farmers who work in the beauty of our landscape, in our heroic military and Olympians.

It’s in every child who looks at the seemingly impossible and says, “I can do that.” That is the America I know!

President Obama’s version of America is a divided one — pitting us Mia against each other based on our income level, gender, and social status.

Love His policies have failed! We are not better off than we were 4 years ago, and no rhetoric, bumper sticker, or campaign ad can change that.

Mr. President I am here to tell you we are not buying what you are selling in 2012.

The American Dream is our story. It is a story of human struggle, standing up and striving for more. It’s been told for over 200 years with small steps and giant leaps; from a woman on a bus to a man with a dream; and the bravery of the greatest generation, to the entrepreneurs of today.

This is our story. This is the America we know because we built it.

With Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan we can restore the America we know and love. The world will know it, our children will tell it and our grandchildren will possess it for years to come!

God bless America.

Mia Love Mayor of Saratoga Springs, UT Republican Candidate for Congress from Utah’s Fourth District

In 2008, then-congressman and former Obama law-school classmate Artur Davis was one of a handful of black Democratic rising stars, including Newark Mayor Cory Booker, California elected official Kamala Harris and others, credited with ushering in an Obama-era of post civil rights generation political leaders.

Since then Davis had his rise up the political ladder abruptly halted by a bruising primary loss in the Alabama governor’s race. Earlier this yea,r he officially left the party he had once represented in Congress and became a registered Republican. Davis addreseds the Republican National Convention on Tuesday. In a candid conversation with The Root, Davis addressed his critics and his political conversion.

The Root: Why did you decide to speak at the Republican National Convention?

Artur Davis: I agreed to speak at the convention because I do think that the story of the 7 million Democrats or the 7 million Obama supporters (from 2008) who say they don’t plan to support the president in 2012 is an important one. I think it’s one of the stories that’s been missed in this campaign, and it’s very important strategically for the Romney campaign and it’s important for the American people to see that ... There’s not going to be another speaker at the (GOP) convention who can speak to that point of view, and I felt I could credibly do that, and I do support Gov. Romney and his campaign.

TR: What was the primary issue that convinced you that Gov. Romney would make a better president than President Obama?

AD: There are a range of issues that convinced me to change my party affiliation, and once you do that, obviously that brings you to supporting your new party’s nominee for president. I point out to people that I didn’t change political parties because of Barack Obama. There are Americans who remain in one party who don’t vote for that party’s nominee for president. I got to a point where, frankly, my positions weren’t lining up with Democratic positions.

Now, with respect to this election, I do think that Gov. Romney has a proven record as a executive who has been able to transform and overcome very difficult systems, from creating a private equity company in the 1980s, to turning around the Salt Lake Winter Olympics, which were in some jeopardy because of a bribery scandal, and his leadership in Massachusetts. And I think the Obama administration’s policies and the party’s policies simply haven’t worked.

TR: But can you name a specific issue on which you disagree with the Democratic Party?

AD: I think on every single issue that we are debating today I found myself lining up with Republicans more than Democrats. I am someone who was center right when I was in the Democratic Party. And

Artur Davis

when I was in the Democratic Party I was a pro-growth Democrat. When I was in the Democratic Party I was a socially conservative Democrat.

When I was in the Democratic Party I was someone who felt that dramatic education reform and stronger accountability for schools and teachers was important.

As I saw the party continuing to move further to the left in 2010 and 2011, it was just no longer a political fit for me.

I would often hear people say to me, “What you said doesn’t help the president or Democrats,” and eventually I thought, “Those people are right,” so why was I still a Democrat?

TR: Plenty of black Americans skew conservative on social issues. Do you think issues like abortion or gay marriage present a growth opportunity for the Republican Party in terms of making inroads with black voters? And where do you stand on those issues?

AD: I don’t support changing the definition of marriage. I think the definition we have between males and females is one that has worked in our culture and throughout the world for centuries, and I certainly don’t see such basis in the Constitution in the equal protection clause for changing the definition of marriage.

TR: Did you vote for the constitutional amendment against gay marriage?

AD: I voted for the constitutional amendment in 2004 (to define marriage as between a man and a woman). Whether a Romney administration would make that a priority on the calendar considering the economy is a different question.

TR: Do you think issues such as these present an opportunity for Republicans in terms of black voters?

AD: I doubt social issues present much of a growth opportunity with the GOP for black Americans because black Americans have been one of the most pro-life constituencies for 40 years, and yet I doubt a single Republican candidate has gotten a vote based on that. I have heard conservatives speak on this issue before black audiences, and you hear the “amens” until someone says, “So this is why you should vote Republican,” and the audience goes silent.

Black Americans tend to vote on economic issues, so if Republicans are serious about seriously competing for black votes – and obviously this election there will be no real competition because of the

president’s support – if the GOP wants to compete in the future it has to be on economic issues and or education reform.

TR: You know there are those, including in the Alabama Democratic Party, who say that your political evolution is nothing but sour grapes because you lost a primary.

How do you respond to that?

AD: Well, there are 6,999,999 people who switched their support from the president in the last few years who did not lose a Democratic primary. (Ed. Note. Davis is referring to the percentage of respondents from a Gallup poll regarding the number of 2008 Obama supporters who have switched their support.) What’s their excuse? There are donors who gave thousands of dollars to him last time who have not this time.

But I recognize that I am a former elected official who is African American, so I am getting more attention than the other 6,999,999.

TR: How do you respond to those who refer to you and other high-profile black conservatives as Uncle Toms?

AD: I always remember what my grandmother used to say: “If you have to curse it means you are not that articulate.” So if someone has to call me a racial epithet…If you can’t think of a better way to say it…a better way than to call someone a name, then that speaks to your limited vocabulary.

TR: You and the president attended Harvard Law School together. Have you heard from him since announcing your political conversion?

AD: The president and I have never had a close personal relationship. I know there are some who have a tough time believing that.

They idealize that two black men at Harvard at the same time must have had a deep close personal friendship, but this interview is longer than any conversation I have had with the president.

Yes, I was a strong supporter of his in 2008, but people mention that I was a (campaign) co-chair – when there were like 13 or 14 of us back in 2008 – and I wasn’t even a surrogate during the general election. So when I hear in the AfricanAmerican community that this (switch in support) is a personal betrayal to him, we simply did not have that kind of relationship.

(This story distributed courtesy of New America Media)

NEWS

Tri-State Defender

Page 3

August 30 - September 5, 2012

Obama’s race still has hearing on media coverage NEWS ANALYSIS

by Nadra Kareem Nittle NNPA News Service

Long before a little-known Illinois politician ran for president, the mainstream media focused on his race. When he flourished as a presidential candidate four years ago, everyone in America knew that Barack Obama was black.

Have his blackness and extensive coverage of that fact boosted his political career or made it more difficult for him to win re-election? Perhaps surprisingly, some of the nation’s best political minds are divided on this question.

Obama’s race dominated media coverage about him before he became president. In 2004, he made headlines for becoming only the third African American elected to the U.S. Senate since Reconstruction. In the 2008 presidential campaign, news stories questioned whether he could connect with African-American voters because he was born to a white Kansan mother and a black Kenyan father, neither connected to blacks in America.

When Obama became the first black elected president, mainstream media portrayed his historic accomplishment as a symbol of a post-racial, colorblind America. That framing is contrary to the experience of millions of African Americans and other people of color beset by conscious and unconscious bias daily in this country.

As Obama’s first term nears its end, the impact of his race in mainstream media coverage remains unclear.

At times, his blackness may have been an advantage in news reports about him, say political experts consulted by the Maynard Institute for Journalism Education. In other cases, however, his race has been a distinct disadvantage, marginalizing him in ways that his presidential campaign rivals, Sen. John McCain ( RAriz.), and former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, a member of a religious minority, haven’t been.

“During the presidential campaign, he was probably treated better than other candidates in the mainstream press because of the historical nature of his candidacy,” said Michael R. Wenger, senior research fellow at the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies in Washington. “After his election, I think the media tried very hard to make the case that we’re in a post-racial society.”

Wenger, author of the soon to be released book, “My Black Family, My White Privilege: A White Man’s Journey Through the Nation’s Racial Minefield,” said that notion is misleading because institutional racism didn’t disappear when Obama became president. He also takes issue with the media covering extravagant claims by conservative Republicans about Obama.

Wenger says no president’s religious beliefs have been questioned to the extent that Obama’s have, in the sense that because Obama has black Kenyan heritage, people have accused him of lying about being a mainline Protestant like the majority of Americans.

While the mainstream media may not have started rumors about Obama’s religious background, they helped to spread them, he said.

Herb Tyson, a Democratic government relations consultant in Washington, agreed.

“First of all, they (the media) don’t challenge the reports under the guise of being fair and balanced,” he said. Outrageous claims about Obama have been reported as “valid policy arguments as opposed to treating it as an absurdity,” he added.

Mainstream news outlets should not only treat baseless gossip about the president as just that but should also cite the hypocrisy of some attacks against Obama, Tyson said.

For example, he notes conservatives’ allegations that Obama wasn’t born in the United States. He says the media should have noted that some Republicans supported changing the U.S. Constitution to allow non-citizens to run for president when Austrian-born Arnold Schwarzenegger became governor of California.

Moreover, the media devoted little coverage in 2008 to the fact that McCain was born in the Panama Canal Zone while some reports suggested

that Obama is an Arab. Exposing such discrepancies makes it easier for the public to see how Obama’s race often spurs attacks against him.

“It doesn’t make sense for anyone to portray the president as non-American,” Tyson said.

“You can disagree with a president, but never before has a president been called nonAmerican. It’s also hard for me to buy into the questions about his Christianity because of the

Jeremiah Wright scandal. Is he a Christian, or is he a Muslim?

How can he be both?”

A video of the Rev. Wright, Obama’s former pastor, was circulated during the 2008 presidential race and threatened to knock Obama’s campaign off course. In a sermon at Chicago’s Trinity United Church of Christ in April 2003, Wright used the phrase “God Damn America” three times. Conservatives suggested that the video indicated

Obama wasn’t a patriot.

“The white part of him is never given credit,” Tyson said.

“No one says that makes him a patriot, he’s a good American.

It’s always he’s the Kenyan.”

Tyson said, “Jack Kennedy was the first Catholic president, and his family came from Ireland. He was broadly more accepted than Obama.”

Romney’s Mormonism hasn’t overshadowed his campaign, Tyson said, because Mor-

monism has been “passed off as a subset of Protestantism. ...

Romney looks presidential. He looks like a WASP.” Pollster Ron Lester said the mainstream media has covered Obama-related controversies adequately. “When you have people like Donald Trump who are making these kinds of allegations, they’re going to be covered,” Lester said. “I don’t think the coverage was excessive. I think it was pretty fair

and balanced.”

Lester said Obama has transcended race by not making it the focal point of his political campaigns. “I think he’s done an excellent job making his case and allowing the voters to evaluate him on the merits.”

(Special to the NNPA from the Robert C. Maynard Institute for Journalism Education, where Nadra Kareem Nittle writes media critiques.)

Page 4

OPINION

Tri-State Defender

August 30 - September 5, 2012

John H. Sengstacke Publisher (1951 - 1997)

The Mid-Southʼs Best Alternative Newspaper

A Real Times Newspaper

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

Urban League way off on Lebron, Nike

Has Marc Morial, president and CEO of the National Urban League, lost his mind? He is one of the few media-appointed leaders of black folk that I actually have some level of respect for. But his recent attack on Nike and basketball player LeBron James has greatly diminished my respect for him.

Last week, Morial issued a press release criticizing Nike and James for introducing their latest LeBron tennis shoe, LeBron X, at a cost of $ 315 Please tell me this is just a joke.

With all the problems facing the black community, this is where Morial’s attention is? Founded in 1910 and headquartered in New York City, the National Urban League spearheads the efforts of its local affiliates through the development of programs, public policy research and advocacy. Supposedly, they are dedicated to economic empowerment.

I am very confused. They say they are dedicated to “economic empowerment,” but yet they criticize a major corporation that has partnered with a black who grew up in abject poverty. James is worth many millions of dollars and has utilized his marketability to enrich himself and Nike. James is the embodiment of what the NUL says it stands for – economic empowerment. Yet, Morial criticizes James for fulfilling what he NUL claims to stands for.

I thought this was what the civil rights movement was all about – to maximize opportunity without artificial barriers being placed in the way.

In the 1960s, we were not allowed to participate in mainstream society.

Now that we can, the very group that helped to make this happen is now telling us not to take advantage of the very opportunity they fought for us to have.

Morial’s statement reads in part, “Today (I) asked Nike to abandon plans to release a $315 basketball shoe, and implored parents not to spend scarce resources on an empty status symbol.To release such an outrageously overpriced product while the nation is struggling to overcome an unemployment crisis is insensitive at best…It represents twisted priorities and confused values…

“Parents struggle to give their children every advantage, and while expensive shoes might draw admiration, achievement is the advantage that truly matters…Those dollars would better be spent on computers, books and school supplies…The economic crisis has escalated violence and crime in many urban communities,” Morial said, adding “Tragically, overpriced sneakers have become a false symbol of status, often sparking violence…I ask Nike – and the parents whose children are targeted in this misdirected campaign – to join us in our efforts to empower young people to value

their own talents – athletic and otherwise – above material tokens and work together for broader access to the economic mainstream.”

There are several troubling several things Raynard that are implicit Jackson in Morial’s statement.

These shoes are not targeted towards blacks. Whites buy more of LeBron’s shoes than blacks. There is absolutely no causation between poverty and crime and I was surprised to see that the National Urban League, of all organizations making that argument.

Second, why would Morial assume all or most blacks can’t afford to pay $315 for a pair of shoes? Last time I saw Marc, I didn’t sport him wearing a low-priced suit from KMART. Who is he to tell a parent that they “represent twisted priorities and confused values?”

Yet, Morial and his organization expend tremendous energy pushing a homosexual rights agenda while black-on-black crime goes through the roof and as black unemployment continues to rise. Tell me who “represents twisted priorities and confused values?”

How many jobs has pushing the homosexual agenda created for blacks? How has pushing the homosexual agenda prevented one black kid from being killed in Chicago?

Marc, how you ever thought about the number of blacks that work for Nike across the country and how many jobs have been created by virtue of the popularity of LeBron’s shoes?

Liberals like Morial don’t believe a black parent has the capacity to do what’s in the best interest of their own family, therefore some third party (Morial, the government, etc.) must force a parent to do what they think should be done. They don’t trust the parent.

Morial and liberals like him must make up their mind. Either blacks are smart enough to do right by their kids or they need “massa” to raise their kids for them. This is another example of the soft bigotry of low expectations.

Though I may disagree with a parent spending that type of money on a pair of shoes, it’s their right. Weak people take strong positions on weak issues.

Morial is truly out of his league.

(Raynard Jackson is president & CEO of Raynard Jackson & Associates, LLC., a Washington, D.C.based public relations/government affairs firm. He can be reached through www.raynardjackson.com.)

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1. Racial prejudice worldwide must be destroyed.

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

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

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

5. Complete cessation of all school segregation.

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

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Obama’s mixed record on appointing judges

Many speakers at this week’s Republican convention in Tampa have focused on the economy and unemployment as they sought to contrast the Mitt Romney-Paul Ryan GOP ticket with the record of President Barack Obama. But there is another battle underway that is receiving less attention but is at least equally import – the fight to appoint federal judges.

For several decades, Republicans have made judicial appointments a top priority. It is still a priority for the GOP and should be one for Democrats, especially because the 5-4 Supreme Court conservative majority could be widened or shifted in the other direction with the possible appointment of two justices over the next four years.

Both President Obama and former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney have made it clear they would appoint a different kind of judge to the federal bench.

So far, the Obama record on appointing judges is like his race – mixed.

Obama has appointed two Supreme Court justices – the same number as Bill Clinton and George W. Bush appointed over eight years.

He appointed 30 appeals court judges, roughly the same number that Clinton and Bush averaged over a term. The real difference was at the district court level, where most cases are decided. Obama has appointed only 125 district judges, compared to 170 for Clinton and 162 for Bush at this point of their presidency.

Part of the problem was that Obama made judicial appointments a low priority as he tried to push his health reform initiative through Congress. Although he fell far behind Bush’s pace in his first year, he later accelerated the process but not fast enough to equal Bush. A second problem was GOP opposition to Obama’s nominees.

Even so, Obama did make significant changes.

The number of appeals court judges appointed by Democrats is now 49 percent, a 10 percent increase Readers weigh www.tsdmemphis.com

in

on

For some, $300 for ‘King’ James’ shoe is step too far Edition: Aug. 23-29, 2012

(Columnist Kelvin Cowans writes that the fact that NBA mega-star LeBron James and Nike have proposed that we spend $300 on a pair of tennis shoes has revealed that “we have finally reached the point of no return.”)

POST: I do not believe that Lebron is responsible for those shoes or what they cost. It is the parents, friends and relatives that makes up the community, in which the children live, is, ultimately, responsible for teaching proper values. Shoe’s of any anount does not add value to a healthy self-esteem.

Free from prison, John Ford projects ‘great things’ Edition: Aug. 23-29, 2012

(It has been five years since the Tennessee Waltz investigation swept up then-State Sen. John Ford, who was released from prison last week.

Ford, now 70, told media that “great things” were ahead for him.)

POST: I am excited that Mr. John Ford is back home… I, too, will vote for him if he runs for any office. He

over when Bush left office. When Obama took office, judges appointed by Democrats dominated only one federal appeals circuit. Now, six of the 13 circuits are dominated by judges appointed George

by Democrats.

E. Curry An Aug. 17 New York Times article on Obama’s judicial record observed: “…Mr. Obama has also largely shied away from nominating assertive liberals who might stand as ideological counterpoints to some of the assertive conservatives Mr. Bush named. Instead of prominent liberal academics whose scholarly writings and videotaped panel discussions would provide ammunition to conservatives, Mr. Obama gravitated toward litigators, prosecutors and sitting district judges and state judges, especially those who would diversify the bench.”

Many of those were met with Republican obstruction.

“The Republicans’ goal has been clear from the start – to keep as many seats as possible vacant for a future Republican president to fill with ultraconservative judges,” noted the Alliance for Justice, an association of more than 100 progressive organizations.

Obama’s goal of diversifying the federal bench has been complicated by the American Bar Association, a group of judicial professionals that vets candidates for federal judgeships.

The New York Times article stated, “Awkwardly, the American Bar Association’s judicial vetting committee later scuttled at least 14 finalists for nominations – nearly all women and minorities –by declaring them ‘not qualified.’”

In 2001, the George W. Bush administration announced that it would cease cooperating with the ABA in advance

of judicial nominations, preferring to go with judges favored by the conservative Federalist Society. However, Obama has been unwilling to appoint judges not approved by the ABA. There is a down side to making safe judicial appointments, especially when conservatives are unabashed in their quest to remake the courts.

In a report on the last term of the Supreme Court titled, “The One-Percent Court,” the Alliance for Justice observed that in the landmark decision upholding the Affordable Care Act, Justices Elena Kagan, appointed

by President Obama and Stephen Breyer, appointed by Bill Clinton, joined the five staunch conservatives on the court in holding that limits can be placed on Congress’ ability to address some national issues, including civil rights, under the commerce clause of the U.S. constitution.

Obama’s only bold move in this area was the nomination of Goodwin Liu, a liberal University of California-Berkeley law professor, to the Ninth Circuit in San Francisco. Senate Republicans blocked his appointment with a filibuster.

He briefly considered nominating another liberal, Pamela Karlan of Stanford University, but stayed with candidates that he believed would be more acceptable to Republicans.

The Times article stated, “While she said she was not disappointed, Ms. Karlan expressed worries that if Republicans nominated outspoken conservatives but Democrats did not nominate equally liberal ones, the center of mainstream legal debate would shift to the right.”

And that’s exactly what has happened.

WEB POSTS

Husband & wife = Eskridge Law Firm Edition: Aug. 16-22, 2012

did more good for Memphis and Shelby County than some of the ones who are in office today.

– Ms. Lou Baseball in D.C.: More than the ball is white Edition: Aug. 16-22, 2012

(NNPA columnist Bill Fletcher Jr. declares himself a “born-again” baseball fan, expresses his pleasure about professional baseball running to Washington, D.C. and notes that attending Washington Nationals’ games makes him “increasingly uneasy with the culture of the games and the atmosphere that is created.”

Writes Fletcher: “But when you look up at the screens during the breaks between the innings, you rarely see anything that has to do with us (African Americans).

POST: You should move to Capetown (South Africa) and go to soccer games, you’d love the ratio there especially since you hate white people so much. How many black athletes are millionaires because of white team owners? How many hometowns of these athletes have benefited from those millions?

How many more millions have these teams put back into the local communities? You need to put your colorblind glasses on and drop the hate!

– Stephon

(George E. Curry is editor-in-chief of the National Newspaper Publishers Association News Service (NNPA) and editorial director of Heart & Soul magazine. He can be reached through www.georgecurry .com. You can also follow him at www.twitter.com/currygeorge.)

(On Our Way To Wealthy columnist Carlee McCullough profiles Reginald and Janelle Eskridge of the Eskridge Law Firm as she continues her focus on family-owned businesses.)

POST: I am very proud to be a part of the Eskridge Law family.

They have represented me since 2003 and continue to mentor me on how to balance business and family.

I love the fact that they genuinely care about me as a person not just an artist, writer or producer. The care and concern really shines through. I look forward to sharing infinite success with Eskridge & Eskridge Law firm.

– Matt Kelly

POST: Eskridge and Eskridge Law Firm has represented my family and me for a number of years. Together they bring vast legal knowledge to the table. They work very hard and they care about their clients.

Also, and I think this is very important, while the Eskridges work really hard in their law firm, they work just as hard raising two very fine sons who excel in their own talents in school, socially, and at play. They are an exceptional family!

– Audrey Conley

NEWS

Tri-State Defender

DEBT

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

izes reductions in Social Security payments for past due student loan borrowers. The only exemption to this second law is on monthly benefits of $750 or less.

Consumers who owe $60,000 or more on federal student loans are allowed by Treasury to take as long as 30 years to repay the loan. An additional eight years of repayment is allowed in the event of economic hardship or longterm unemployment. In these instances, payments are deferred while the interest continues to accrue.

Who would ever have imagined that a student loan repayment would take 30 years or more? In bygone years. the only loans that incurred such lengthy indebtedness were mortgages.

Consumers with blemished credit scores or those with limited funds for a down payment may seek an Fair Housing Administration (FHA) or Veterans Affairs (VA) financing with down payments as low as 3.5 percent. However these loans can be expensive and typically take a longer time to be approved. Since October 2010, three separate price increases on FHA loans have occurred.

The most recent was the addition of an upfront mortgage premium payment announced in April that will add $1,500 in upfront costs for a typical home of $200,000.

The domino effect of debt begins with a student loan and then delays the ability to qualify for a mortgage. With other consumer debt payments such as car loans, and credit cards taking a larger share of net income, the ability to gain wealth is limited if not stymied.

Consumers opting for rental housing may find the monthly payment more affordable on a cash-flow basis; but no equity or wealth is derived on rentals. Further, as the rental housing market has tightened, the cost of rental housing continues to increase –leaving fewer disposable dollars to save for a home down payment.

And if parents or grandparents signed for a student loan, the benefits they worked for most of their lives are siphoned and tarnish during what ought to be the proverbial “golden years.”

“Denied: The Impact of Student Debt on the Ability to Buy a House” reaches a thoughtful conclusion: “Policymakers who may be unmotivated by individual struggles of borrowers, or unconvinced of the extent of the problem today, would be wise to begin to view student debt in an additional light: as an encumbrance on the recovery of the housing market, and as a result, a potential hindrance to economic growth.”

(Charlene Crowell is a communications manager for the Center for Responsible Lending. She can be reached at: Charlene.crowell@responsiblelending.org.)

Page 5

August 30 - September 5, 2012

Music makes the world go around

by Cheryl PearsonMcNeil NNPA News Service

When you and I talk about technological leaps and bounds, frequently we’re focused on the way we communicate with each other. And, I write here a lot about what we watch and how we watch it.

But, let me ask you this: What are you listening to today, and perhaps, even more interestingly – how are you listening to it?

My assumption that you are indeed very likely to listen to music today is an educated one, as results from new Nielsen Entertainment and Nielsen 360 studies show that music is an everyday activity for most people in this country. Those comprehensive results report that 70 percent of people 13-plus actively listen to music at least once a day.

Ninety percent of people actively listen at least several times a week.

We love our music and both exposure and consumption continue to increase. So, now, how are you listening to your

SCHOOLS

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

Monday (Aug. 27) announced 169 schools as the 2011-12 “reward” schools. The schools are spread across 70 districts, located in major cities as well as rural areas, and 102 of the recognized schools serve mostly economically disadvantaged populations.

Many of the state’s schools celebrated by tuning in for a special webcast featuring U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, Haslam, First Lady Crissy Haslam and Huffman.

“Tennessee is leading the way in education reform, and these schools demonstrate two key focuses of education in our state: high levels of achievement and continuous growth,” Haslam said at an event held at Kenrose Elementary School in Brentwood.

“Job creation and education are inextricably linked, and continuing our momentum in education reform is important as we work to make Tennessee the No. 1 location in the Southeast for

music?

Remember back in the dark ages when AM/FM radio was the way to go, when transistor radios (which went the way of the dinosaur) were considered cool? In addition to your personal stereo or turntable – which played records – came 8-tracks, cassette players, boom boxes, the Walkman, then the Discman. “The accessibility of music has seen tremendous expansion and diversification,” reports Nielsen Entertainment’s David Bakula. His research also confirms that radio still rules as the number one way consumers access music. This is how we listen: • Radio – 48 percent • Computer – 44 percent • CD player – 39 percent • iPod® (other than phone) – 27 percent • Home stereo – 23 percent • TV – 21 percent • MP3 player (other than an iPod® or phone) – 17 percent • Android® phone – 13 percent • iPhone ® – 12 percent • Satellite Radio –10 percent

high quality jobs. We are proud of the teachers and staff at each of these schools and excited to recognize their efforts on behalf of Tennessee students.”

Tennessee has set out to become the fastest-improving educational system in the country by raising student performance each year. It was the first time the state has recognized Tennessee schools that have shown the most progress year-overyear alongside the schools with the highest achievement scores on statewide tests.

Nearly a quarter of the 169 schools on the Reward School list actually earned both designations. That means they rose to the top 5 percent for annual value-added growth while also ranking in the state’s top 5 percent for overall achievement, according to a new accountability system adopted through Tennessee’s No Child Left Behind waiver.

State officials said the 201112 “reward” schools’ accomplishments came during a year that Tennessee saw unprecedented gains on the statewide Tennessee Comprehensive As-

When we refer to listening via computer, iPods®, MP3 players or phones, we’re often referring to Internet radio, digital downloads of singles and albums and on-demand streaming. These days, of course, albums don’t necessarily mean vinyl – although data shows there is resurgence in interest in vinyl albums – it typically means CDs and digital albums. For young people, though, the numbers are a little different. YouTube® is the way most listen to music.

As the mom of a music-loving teenage son, I can testify to this. Take a look: • 64 percent of teens listen to music through YouTube® • 56 percent of teens listen to music on the radio • 53 percent listen through iTunes® • 50 percent listen on CDs

It’s interesting to note, too, that new hot artists aren’t always the most listened to or biggest selling. Because of her heavy exposure, Nikki Minaj’s “Super Bass” was the most streamed song in 2011, with more than 86 million sessment Program, or TCAP. As schools across the state made improvements and reached higher levels of proficiency, the 169 reward schools are said to have led the way.

Because Tennessee’s new accountability system rewards growth and recognizes schools’ varying baselines, every school in the state can strive for the Reward Schools designation.

“We believe that all students deserve strong schools where they can grow to high levels of achievement,” Huffman said.

“At the beginning of each year, every school in this state should know that they have a shot at becoming a Reward School.”

(For a list of the schools, visit www.tn.gov/education/accountability.)

plays/views, beating out singles

by Adele, LMFAO, Lady Gaga and Katy Perry. With all the ways to consume music, a couple of more traditional artists made Nielsen’s top 10 list for the first six months of 2012.

Whitney Houston was No. 2 two across all platforms, with appreciation and interest likely spiked by her untimely death, which is often the case; Rihanna was number six; and Lionel Ritchie, who, of course, has been around for decades, came in at number eight – outselling all the others in digital tracks and streaming plays. This is probably because of Ritchie’s foray into the country genre.

And, that’s interesting because respondents to Nielsen’s survey typically classified themselves as either country fans or hip-hop/R&B fans.

The reality is that people who put themselves in either of those categories actually enjoy a much broader spectrum of music. Country music fans also reported preferring rock/classic/pop/top 40/oldies and alternative rock. Data shows those who preferred hip-hop/R&B also listen to

pop/top40/rap/classic rock and alternative rock. Of course, there is also taste for jazz, adult contemporary, gospel/religious and others.

Another interesting stat is that even though new digital track releases are likely to be purchased by younger consumers immediately after their release, catalog sales are outpacing current sales. Catalog music is at least 18 months old, which includes all the classics. Nielsen analysts attribute much of this to Multimedia Integration. Think about it. How many traditional artists have you seen or heard on TV shows like “American Idol,” “The Voice” or “Glee?”

It’s another trend to watch as all genres of music are everywhere more than ever.

And, you, the music-loving consumer, have far greater control (and power) over how you access yours.

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

Page 6

August 30 - September 5, 2012

Tri-State Defender

BUSINESS

Tri-State Defender

Page 7

August 30 - September 5, 2012

ON OUR WAY TO WEALTHY

A ‘Shark Tank’ lesson: Ask for help when needed A few months ago, I had a discussion with a few associates over coffee. The topic of the conversation was a television show called “Shark Tank.” I had watched it a few times and thought that it was intriguing.

My associates found it captivating.

The premise of the show is a business owner bringing a product or service to a panel of professionals in the hopes of receiving an investment of money and expertise. It’s called “Shark Tank” because the investors are just that, sharks.

They are conservative, sharp, experienced, successful, shrewd and savvy. More likely than not, the investors are looking for the business owner to be the same. They want the business owner to know the value of the company based on sales history and debt ratio. If you approach them for money and your valuation is off, prepare to be thrown under the bus.

The art of the deal is based on creativity, innovation, patent status and

sales projections.

Frequently they are interested in products that can be licensed to folks that are already in the business. Rather than recreate processes, synergies and alliances are at the forefront of Carlee moving a product McCullough forward.

Examples of recent presentations included a husband and wife team that produced handbags. Although the couple had a patent pending and the bags were appealing, the panel didn’t feel there was anything unique about the bags.

All the sharks passed on the deal.

Another example was a gentleman that created a single serving of wine in a cup to be sold. This was a new packaging concept for an ancient

product, wine. The sharks were interested in the concept. The owner was knowledgeable and confident. His advisor was the owner and creator of Samuel Adams beer.

This was the business owner’s second trip to see the sharks. The first time around he didn’t have any sales numbers. This time he was armed with the history. The sharks made an offer, which was too low for the business owner. In sum, the business owner stood his ground and walked away empty handed. It’s too soon to tell if he made the right decision.

The last example was a couple that had been together since they were 14 years old. Now married for seven years and with two little girls, they created an innovative “sippy cup” with a weighted straw that always went to the liquid. This was an item that most households anywhere could use. The packaging was professional and appealing. They had patents in order, sales increasing and

interest from big box retailers.

After some negotiation, the business owners made a deal by giving up 40 percent of their company, but what they got in return was invaluable. They received much needed capital and the expertise of a proven winner on their team to help take them to the next level.

The commonality between all three presentations was the fact that they all realized they needed help in order to get to the next level. This required them to admit that as business owners they had taken the business as far as they could take it without outside assistance funding and experience. They realized that although they birthed the baby, sometimes it takes a village to raise it properly.

Many of us can learn from these business owners. Admitting that your business needs help is no indication of you as a business owner. Because we frequently work in a silo as an entrepreneur, we fail to understand that

business is a “team sport.” Marketing, sales, finance, operations and legal are all parts of the team. But sometimes our future team member may not be a current part of the team.

Do not hesitate to step outside of your comfort zone to ask for help. It could save your company or business. Remember 100 percent of nothing is nothing. If you give up a portion of your company to move forward, just make sure that the person or team that you are bringing in is proven, worthy and bringing as much to the table as you are willing to give up.

Most investors do not invest simply because your company is in need.

They invest because they believe in the CEO and that they can make a solid return on their investment.

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

MONEY MATTERS Sixty-nine percent of middle-income Americans say they’d like to work in retirement in order to “stay busy.” While this could be a worthwhile goal, wouldn’t it be nice to work on your own terms – to pursue your passion instead of a paycheck?

What is your retirement vision?

Wouldn’t it be disappointing to dream about a comfortable retirement and then find yourself unable to enjoy your leisure years because of limited financial resources?

UnforCharles Sims Jr., CFP tunately, this is a possibility for people who underestimate retirement expenses and the rising cost of living.

Evaluate spending and costs Although your expenses may change when you retire, reductions in some areas (such as clothing and transportation to and from work) could be offset by higher costs in others. For example, your home energy expenses may be higher if you spend more time at home, and health-related costs typically increase as you grow older.

Some expenses, such as food and housing, may stay about the same.

Home-related expenses represent at least 42 percent of spending for Americans aged 50 and older, regardless of whether they are retired.

One study found that even though three out of five workers expect to spend less in retirement, half of retirees said their spending in the early years of retirement was about the same or higher than it was when they were working.

Where you live could play a significant role in your overall expenses. If you’re living on a limited income, your money might go further in some cities and states than it could in others. You’ll need to consider not only the cost of housing, food, and utilities but also taxes.

States have varying rules for taxing

pension and Social Security income, and property and sales taxes may vary not only by state but by county.

Enjoy the lifestyle you want

As you calculate the savings it may take to retire, remember to factor in your retirement wants as well as your basic needs. What do you picture for your retirement? The top retirement dream for today’s older Americans is vacation and travel.

Perhaps you’d like to see South America or go fly fishing in Alaska.

Maybe you want to work on your golf or tennis game, or enjoy a hobby that you don’t have time for now. You might like to volunteer for your favorite charity or move closer to your children and grandchildren.

Sixty-nine percent of middle-income Americans say they’d like to work in retirement in order to “stay busy.” While this could be a worthwhile goal, wouldn’t it be nice to work on your own terms – to pursue your passion instead of a paycheck?

If you’re young, retirement may seem too far off to worry much about. If you’re approaching the end of your working years, you may have a clearer picture of life after work. Regardless of your age, a solid financial strategy could help you retire more comfortably.

(Charles Sims Jr. is President/ CEO of The Sims Financial Group.

Contact him at 901-682-2410 or visit www.SimsFinancialGroup .com. The information in this article is not intended to be tax or legal advice, and it may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. You are encouraged to seek tax or legal advice from an independent professional advisor.)

3 women’s groups to host The Corporate Agent

“When Great Women Gather, Great Things Can Happen…” is the impetus of an Educational Seminar, Exhibition and Luncheon that will take place Sept.

12 at the Holiday Inn at the University of Memphis, 3700 Central Ave. Hosted by three Memphis-based women’s groups – The National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), Memphis Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW) and WBEC SOUTH – the 5 ½-hour conference will open with a continental breakfast at 8 a.m., followed by a number of breakout sessions, lunch and the keynote address by Maryland-based Angelique Rewers, owner and CEO of The Corporate Agent, a business consulting service.

Rewers will talk about “Shattering the C-Myth.” She will explain how small business owners and entrepreneurs can land the corporate account and move from a small business clientele to the world of corporate America.

“There are tremendous growth opportunities today for women-

owned businesses in the corporate marketplace where large organizations spend trillions of dollars on goods and services each year,” said Rewers. “Yet a lot of these women business owners are on the sidelines of this market because it can seem impenetrable when you’re on the outside looking in.”

Rewers’ goal is to help demystify how business owners go about successfully marketing and selling their services to corporations in a way that creates a genuine win-win partnership.

During the breakout sessions, MAAG, NAWBO, CREW, WBEC South and Regions Bank will present such topics as “Business on the Square,” “Taking Your Business Global,” “Designing Efficient Work Space,” “It’s Your Business-Protect It” and “Breaking Out of the Trenches.”

Individual registration is $49 and $59 at the door. To register, visit http://nawbomemphis.org.

Or for more information, contact Natasha Donerson at 901-3288842.

The three-day Economic Development Fair provided ample opportunity for networking. (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)

Let her show you the data Nielsen VP touts research value to business owners Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Myron Mays

Cheryl Pearson-McNeil, Nielsen’s senior vice president for Communications, can be a reference or a resource in just about any conversation that involves trends.

With more than 21 years of public relations, communications and writing experience, Pearson-McNeil’s background includes advertising, television, public affairs, the non-profit sector and government. In a world where most everything can be measured by television time, time spent online and what we buy, she is an information treasure.

There are more than 200 million television viewers. Today those viewers have a greater opportunity to be entertained. There are more than 100 options to choose from in terms of television channels.There are many more ways we can actually get those channels: online, NetFlix, YouTube and more. In all we spend nearly 80 hours a week watching television in any given household.

Those are just a few of the statistics PearsonMcNeil has readily available to share. Nielsen provides this type of research and more.

Pearson-McNeil was the luncheon speaker Wednesday at the 2012 Economic Development Forum hosted by the Mid-South Minority Business Council Continuum at the Memphis Cook Convention Center. The three-day affair was a

bonanza for “minority” businesses eager for growth opportunities.

Pearson-McNeil, whose National Newspaper Publishing Association columns appear in The New Tri-State Defender, explained why small businesses need the research she often has at her fingertips, how the research helps and where to find it. Nielsen’s Cheryl consumer research helps Pearsonsmall business owners know McNeil the trends that affect their industries and helps them know who to market to in a changing world, she said.

One of the biggest challenges is that a lot of minority businesses are not using the data that does exist, said Pearson-McNeil.

“I don’t think they know that it’s available to them or where to get it. I think if they had access to it they would take it on,” she said.

“That’s why we did the State of the African American Consumer Report so that everyday consumers and business owners would have access to it.”

Business owners who have such research at their disposal are more prepared to be competitive, Pearson-McNeil said.

Fear, she said, often hinders minority businesses from growing and also hinders corporations from embracing diversity.

(Download the State of the African American Consumer Report at www.nielsens.com.)

Show and tell…

Otha Brandon, Comcastʼs Director of Government Affairs, helps kick off year two of Internet Essentials, a program designed to help connect low-income families to the Internet, during a special event at Soulsville Charter School (Aug. 23), 926 East McLemore Ave. The event dovetailed with the branding of a new computer lab funded by the Comcast Foundation and drew numerous local officials and business leaders. (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)

RELIGION

Page 8

Tri-State Defender

August 30 - September 5, 2012

LIVING THE LIFE I LOVE

Wuf-wuf! Thank God for ‘Mr. Lee’

Dear Lucy: I have a dog that I love dearly and have had her for 10 years. I am a widow and she is my constant companion. When I go out and have to leave early because of her, I am not upset but others seem to get upset! Some friends accuse me of treating her like she is a person or letting her dictate my schedule. I resent this. I do not think of my dog as a person. She is a dog and I well know that. Why is it that when you are a certain age, live alone and have a pet people like to label you “pet lover” in a mocking way?

– Signed: AW

Dear AW: I have no idea why people do, say and feel as they do. But I know that there are a lot of lovers of pets in this world! Those are the people who choose to take on the full responsibility of caring for a pet without being forced or coerced to do so.

Those are the folk who clearly understand the depth of the responsibility

and are willing to meet it.

I don’t have a pet simply because I don’t choose to take on the responsibility.

It is tremendous and requires commitment, love, patience and today, some disposLucy able income.

Shaw However, I have profound respect for those who choose to responsibly have pets whether they are single, widowed or married with a house full of children! I also like it when those who have pets don’t judge or disrespect my right not to have a pet.

My aunt Vickie is 82 years old and is on her fourth dog in the 40 years I can remember. She lives in my house in the country. When she moved in, she had a dog who was

getting up in age, grouchy and eventually went blind, stopped being house broken and died.

This dog, Vixen, had seen my aunt through the passing of her husband of 35 years before auntie moved into my home. My aunt very much wanted me to stay in the country with her and I could not as my career would not allow it. When Vixen died, initially I was not in favor of another dog as my aunt had taken the passing of this one so hard. After about three months I came to my senses and began to encourage her to get another one.

Her present dog, Mr. Lee, is beautiful, smart, loving and kind. He is the company to her that I cannot be.

As a very experienced lover of small dogs, my aunt is real clear on her responsibility to her dog. She feeds him very strictly and carefully, keeps him beautifully groomed, talks to him (not expecting an answer, just needing to hear herself talk), takes

him to the vet, walks him and gets up so, so early to take him out to potty.

And, yes, she plans trips, excursions and church commitments around her dog’s schedule of needs.

I, too, am a widow but I have not made the decision to assume such responsibility. But I thank God for Mr. Lee and my aunt’s choice to share her overflow of love with him.

I have given up on trying to understand how and why we are attracted to differing choices. But I do understand that God has provided each of us with plenty of opportunity to express ourselves and our love for all of creation. And I respect any activity that affirms life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness in ways that cause no harm to self or anyone else.

Taking care of a pet, and especially a dog, is a reminder of what unconditional love is all about. They forgive you when the foods not on time, or hold the poop if you just have to sleep late, they are always

RELIGION BRIEFS

Magnolia First Baptist To welcome new pastor

Magnolia First Baptist Church, one of the oldest churches in the Magnolia Blossom subdivision of South Memphis, will hear the first sermon from its new pastor, The Rev. Aaron

Theme: ‘Fill My Cup, Lord’…

The Progressive Womenʼs Day Choir provided the music during the 3:30 p.m. service last Sunday (Aug. 26) as Progressive Missionary Baptist Church observed Annual Womenʼs Day 2012. The Rev. Dr. James B. Collins is the pastor. (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)

K. Letcher, on Sunday (Sept. 2).

Mr. Letcher will preach during morning the worship service, which begins at 10:45 a.m. The former pastor of Mt. Moriah Baptist Church in Eads, Tenn., Mr. Letcher was elected to succeed the Rev. Bobby Baker on July 29.

Magnolia First Baptist Church is located at 1518 S. Cooper.

—John 13:34

METROPOLITAN BAPTIST CHURCH

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

Dr. Reginald L. Porter Sr., Pastor

ASSOCIATE MINISTERS

901-946-4095 fax 948-8311

(901) 948-3441

Early Morning..........7:45 AM Church School..........9:45 AM Morning Worship......11:00 AM

Rev. Davena Young Porter Rev. Linda A Paige Rev. Luecretia Matthews

Bible Study For Youth and Adults Tuesday - 7:00 PM “Spirit, Soul, and Body!”

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

SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES

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

TV Cable Access Broadcast Tuesdays, 7:30 PM, Channel 17 Website:www.saintandrewamec.org

Dr. & Rev. Mrs. Reginald Porter

THE BLVD Ea s t 6745 Wol f Ri v e r B oule v a r d @ Ki r by Pa r k wa y ( i n t he Cl a rk Ope r a Me mphi s Ce nte r ) Me mp h i s T N 3 8 1 2 0

Dr. Frank A. Thomas Senior Servant

TEMPLE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST

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

WEEKLY SERVICES

Sunday Sunday School 9:00 a.m.

Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.

Night YPWW 5:00 p.m.

Night Service 6:00 p.m.

Tuesday Night Prayer 6:00 p.m.

Bible Study 7:15 p.m.

Wednesday Choir Rehearsal 7:00 p.m.

Friday Morning Prayer 9:00 a.m.

Night Service 7:30 p.m.

No Telecast Service

— Proverbs 1:7

Dr. David Allen Hall Pastor

“The Founder’s Church”

First Pastor: Senior Bishop C.H. Mason

To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.

—Ecclesiastes 3:1

Greenwood Christian Methodist Episcopal Church 3311 Kimball Ave. Memphis, TN 38111 (901) 744-7531 (901) 744-7664

Worship Services Sunday Sunday School Worship Service

Clarence Kelby Heath Wednesday Pastor

Noon - 1 p.m.

6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Child Care Center (901) 948-6441 Monday-Friday 6 AM- 5:30 PM Emergency Food Pantry Rev. Kenneth S. Robinson, Pastor & Clothes Closet Rev. Marilynn S. Robinson, Co-Pastor Wednesday 6 PM-8 PM

“Ministering to Memphis-Spirit, Soul and Body”

672 So. Lauderdale 38126 P.O. Box 314 Memphis, Tn 38101 Phone (General) 774-1572 Pastor: 775-0740 Secretary: 775-1909

BROADCASTS 9:30 a.m. Sunday WDIA - 1070 AM

BRIEFLY: The Rev. Anthony Henderson, pastor of Beulah Baptist Church, will be the evangelist during Summer Revival, 7:30 nightly through Friday (Aug. 31) at Castalia Baptist Church, 1540 Castalia St., where the Rev. Dr. Randolph Meade Walker is host pastor.

Evangelist Sonita Cummings of Christ Community Church was the keynote speaker as Greater Lewis Street Missionary Baptist celebrated Womenʼs Month (Aug. 12). Her topic covered how to deal with a broken heart from a spiritual perspective. She was introduced by the Rev. Myron D. Donald, the host pastor. (Photo by Warren Roseborough)

-A WEEKLY DIRECTORY OF MINISTERS & CHURCHES-

767 Walker Avenue Memphis, TN 38126

(Check out Lucy Shaw’s website at http://www.heartworks4u.com. You may send your questions to her by U.S. mail to: Heartworks4U, LLC; 4646 Poplar Ave. Ste 201, Memphis, TN 38117 or by e-mail to lucy@heartworks4u.com.)

(For help with the feelings that get in the way of prayer and peace of mind, get Lucy’s new book, “BE NOT ANXIOUS.” Order it directly from her at 901-907-0260 or go to her web site www.heartworks4u.com.)

Heart to heart…

PRAISE CONNECT

A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.

glad to see you and hug you even when you stink. They trust you to keep up your end of the bargain and support you no matter what. Sounds like great training in loving to me.

And when you are really good and learn how to discipline them correctly and lovingly you never have to worry about how they will behave at home or in public.

So honor your own choice, keep your life balanced on your own terms and enjoy the welcome home barks that bring you joy.

Wuf-wuf!

Lucy

9 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.

—Revelation 1:8

Tri-State Defender

RELIGION

August 30 - September 5, 2012

The Rev. Hubon P. Sandridge Jr. delivers the eulogy for his mother, Mrs. Alice Oates Sandridge. (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)

LEGACY: Alice Oates Sandridge

For many, Alice Oates Sandridge was the embodiment of family and community and they were in attendance last Saturday (Aug. 25) for her homegoing celebration.

Mrs. Sandridge, whose children include former Memphis City Schools Board of Education Commissioner Hubon Sandridge Jr., died Aug. 19.

She was 89.

The proprietor of the historic Sandridge Grocery Store for over 50 years, Mrs. Sandridge was born in Memphis on Oct. 3, 1922. She was a graduate of Booker T. Washington High School and attended The LeMoyne-Owen College.

In 2006, Mrs. Sandridge was the recipient of the Women of Stamina Award.

She also served as treasurer of the Hollywood/Hyde Park

Meditation Hour.

M r s .

Sandridge united w i t h Thomas Chapel Baptist Church and St. Mark BapAlice Oates tist Church Sandridge where she served as first lady from 1956 to 1976.

At Thomas Chapel, she served as president of the Senior Choir, taught Sunday School and was a founding member of the Sandridgeaires.

Mrs. Sandridge was married to the late Rev. H.P. Sandridge Sr. and the couple had three children: Ramelle (Joe) Tuggle, Rev. Sandridge Jr. (Mary),

and the Rev. Riesel (Deborah) Sandridge Sr. She also leaves two sisters: Charlyne McGraw of Memphis and Margaret Wells of Los Angeles; three grandchildren: Rio Jr., Allyson Maisha and Mallory Grace; two stepgranddaughters: Stacy (James) Taylor and Felecia Parchman; five step-great grandchildren: Chaz, Sherrell, Malcolm, Cody and Jolie; a sister-in-law, Joe Alice Sandridge of Memphis, and a host of nieces, nephews and other family members.

Services for Mrs. Sandridge were held at Thomas Chapel Baptist Church, 2539 New Raleigh Rd., with her son, Rev. H.P. Sandridge Jr., officiating. Burial was in National Cemetery on Monday (Aug. 27). N.J. Ford and Sons Funeral Home had charge.

Page 9

ENTERTAINMENT Tri-State Defender, Thursday, August 30 - September 5, 2012, Page 10

WHAT’S HAPPENING MYRON?

‘Beverly Hills Cop’ to TV? Please, arrest that idea!

N o t too long ago I read a rep o r t where Eddie Murphy was considering doing another inMyron stallment Mays of “Beverly Hills Cop.” Yes, “Beverly Hills Cop 4.” I remember thinking to myself, “NO!” I really enjoyed the first “Beverly Hills Cop.” I actually enjoyed “Beverly Hills Cop 2”. When it came to “Beverly Hills Cop 3,” however, I was just a little disappointed. It seemed as if they ran completely out of ideas.

In the third installment, someone kills Axel Foley’s boss and he goes after the killer. Out of all places, the killer ends up in Beverly Hills. Really? That’s how they got him back to Beverly Hills?

I felt like BHC 3 was a waste of the franchise. Now there is talk of a part 4. What could possibly be the premise of another one of these things? Beats me…but there’s actually a point to all of this. (Lol) Instead of doing a part 4, they are actually discussing the possibility of bringing the Axel Foley character to television and making “Beverly Hills Cop” a television show. Sounds like a great idea huh? Well, maybe.

Think about this: if they couldn’t come up with a better storyline for what was the third installment, how are they planning to pull off great ideas every week?

I know you’re thinking, “Myron, give it a chance.” If it makes it to TV, I will give it a chance. But only if still feel that way after I give you the premise. This show would star Axel Foley’s son, with Axel Foley as the police chief of Detroit. Now, I’m thinking that Axel Foley’s son would be living in Detroit as well. If I’m correct, that means on every episode something would have to happen to get him to Beverly Hills, right? If this character lives in Beverly Hills already, that means that his father, Axel Foley, would not be a regular part of the show because he would still be in Detroit.

My point? Who wants to watch “Beverly Hills Cop “without Axel Foley? And

Stick with me…

since Eddie Murphy has said that he will be producing, but not starring in it, who wants to see a “Beverly Hills Cop” where Axel Foley is played by someone other than Murphy?

I can wait to see how they pull this off.

‘The Loretta McNary Show’

Join the live taping of “The Loretta McNary Show” on Sept. 7. The special guests will be Johnnie Walker, with the MemphisShelby County Music Commission, and talented songbird Terri Jackson. Tapings are open to the public and you are invited to be a part of the studio audience. The Loretta McNary studio is located at the Hickory Ridge Mall, 6075 Winchester Rd., next to Sears. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and showtime is at 6:10 p.m. Be there.

Grown Folks Friday

Bernard Williams presents Grown Folks Friday on Aug. 31 at “On the Grove,” 2865 Walnut Grove Rd., behind Senses Nightclub. Special guests will be comedian Pierre, with music by the Pure Elegance Band Featuring Marcus Scott. Doors open at 8 p.m. and showtime is at 9 p.m. Put on your best grown-and-sexy gear and come on out. Hosted by Comedian V-Mack. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Call 901- 650-2986 or visit www.memphisdallas cowboysfanclub.com.

The Luxe Penthouse

The Memphis Urban League Young Professionals presents the “Luxe Penthouse” on Sept. 8 at 45 GE Patterson. Doors open at 9 p.m. Admission is $10 in advance and $15 at the door.

Age: 21 and up, with proper attire required. For more information and ticket sales, contact Cynthia Daniels: 678-793-8569, Cynthia.daniels09@gmail.com; Derron Christmas: 901-3015913, Derronchristmas@ gmail.com. The Memphis Urban League Young Professionals is a volunteer service organization that actively supports the objectives of the Memphis Urban League, the National Urban League and the National Urban League Young Professionals.

Teen author Angel Ray with her parents. (Courtesy photo)

Teen author pens eyeopener for ‘rare adult’

munication between teens and parents. “Most parents don’t know what goes on or ask about Special to The New Tri-State Defender their teen’s life. I talk to my parents, but even have always prided myself on my ability to they don’t always understand.”

I met Ray one Tuesday evening at her church, relate to young people. I am the one they The New Olivet Baptist Church. come to when they can’t talk to After talking one on one, we were their parents. I understand young joined by five other teens – four people. I am the rare adult who acyoung men and one young lady – tually gets it! about her age. Four attended MemThat was my self-proclaimed phis City Schools and one attended status.

Shelby County Schools. Only one When I sat down with teen auof the teens had read the book, but thor Angel Ray and five other after I briefed them on the stories, teens, I found out that I couldn’t they had plenty to talk about. have been further from the truth.

Ray’s book features four stories I first had to understand where about four real teens. Each story is the author was coming from with followed by a series of discussion her book, “Some Parents Just questions to evoke thought and Don’t Understand.” The stories were somewhat typical, but some ʻSome Parents Just conversation among teens. The Donʼt Understandʼ first story – “But He Was My had surprising twists.

by Angel Ray First” – deals with two teen girls “These stories are 100 percent Lulu.com true except the names and places. I Copyright: July 2012 fighting over a teen boy. w w. a u t h o r - a n g e l I asked if anyone had seen or know the people who are the basis w ray.com/ even been in a similar situation. All for each of these stories,” said Ray. $15 had seen such a scenario and two Yes, but why these specific stohad first-hand experience. Everyone agreed ries?

“Teens go through more than adults think we that fighting over a boy (or girl) is pointless.

“It’s stupid,” said one of the teens, summing do. I had to let them know that there is a reaup the situation. “The boy probably has three son behind our decisions,” said Ray, who envisions her book helping to open lines of com- more girls.”

by Nona N. Allen

I

Jalen Harris (center) performs at the 27th Music Pioneer Awards at the New Daisy Theatre on Aug. 23. Harris was honored as the “Most Promising Male Artist.” (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)

Royalty…

Miss UNCF 2012 Ashley Dortch (left) and Miss LeMoyne-Owen College 2012 Ayeisha Cole at the Black Tie Gala that helped capped this yearʼs Hank Aaron Celebrity Sports Weekend benefiting the UNCF and the college. The gala was held at Minglewood Hall (Aug. 25). (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)

ENTERTAINMENT

Tri-State Defender

Page 11

August 30 - September 5, 2012

Aug. 30-Sept. 5, 2012

OPENING THIS WEEK

Kam’s Kapsules:

Weekly Previews That Make Choosing a Film Fun

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Kam Williams

For movies opening Aug. 31, 2012

BIG BUDGET FILMS

“Lawless” (R for profanity, sexuality, nudity and graphic violence) Prohibition Era crime saga revisiting the real-life exploits of the bootlegging Bondurant brothers (Tom Hardy, Shia LaBeouf and Jason Clarke), a ruthless gang who ran a thriving moonshine operation in the mountains of Franklin County, Virginia where they crossed paths with a crooked Deputy Sheriff (Guy Pearce) demanding a cut of the take. With Jessica Chastain, Gary Oldman and Mia Wasikowska.

“The Oogieloves in the Big Balloon Adventure” (G) Interactive kiddie flick in which the title characters’ (Malerie Grady, Stephanie Renz and Misty Miller) plans to throw a pal (Taras Los) a surprise birthday party go awry when their magical balloons float away. Ensemble includes Christopher Lloyd, Toni Braxton, Cloris Leachman, Cary Elwes, Jaime Pressly and Chazz Palminteri.

“The Possession” (PG 13 for violence and disturbing themes) Evil spirit horror flick about a couple’s (Kyra Sedgwick and Jeffrey Dean Morgan) desperate effort to defeat the demonic force unwittingly unleashed on their family after their youngest daughter (Natasha Calis) bought an antique box at a neighborhood yard sale. Cast includes Madison Davenport, Grant Show and Agam Darshi.

INDEPENDENT & FOREIGN FILMS

“The Ambassador” (Unrated) Danish journalist Madds Brugger poses as a shady European diplomat in this shocking documentary exposing corrupt government officials openly trading in blood diamonds in the Central African Republic. (In Danish, English and French with subtitles)

“Breathing” (Unrated) Austrian actorturned-director Karl Markovics makes his directorial debut with this eloquent character study of an incarcerated teenager’s (Thomas Schubert) effort to earn an early parole for good behavior by working in the morgue.

With Karin Lischka, Georg Friedrich and Gerhard Liebmann. (In German and English with subtitles) “The Day” (R for nudity, graphic vio-

lence and pervasive profanity) Post-apocalyptic sci-fi thriller about an intrepid quintet‘s 24-hour defense of the decimated planet against a horde of bloodthirsty predators.

Starring Shawn Ashmore, Cory Hardrict, Ashley Bell, Michael Eklund and Dominic Monaghan.

“The Flying Swords of Dragon Gate” (R for violence) Jet Li stars in this 3-D remake of Dragon Gate Inn (1966), a martial arts adventure about an avaricious band of marauders’ search for buried treasure in the desert while hiding their true intentions by masquerading as ordinary citizens. Featuring Lunmei Kwai, Xun Zhou, Kun Chen and Yuchun Li. (In Mandarin with subtitles) “For a Good Time, Call” (R for profanity, drug use and graphic sexuality) Raunchy romantic romp revolving around a couple of cash-strapped roommates (Ari Graynor and Lauren Miller) who resort to phone sex to pay the rent on their pricey Manhattan apartment. Ensemble cast includes Seth Rogen, Mimi Rogers, Nia Vardalos and Justin Long.

“The Good Doctor” (PG-13 for crude sexuality, disturbing situations and mature themes) Orlando Bloom plays the title character in this psychological thriller about a recent med school grad who develops an unhealthy obsession with a pretty patient (Riley Keough) with a kidney infection.

Supporting cast includes Taraji P. Henson (great-great niece of Matthew), Troy Garrity (son of Jane Fonda and Tom Hayden), Sorel Carradine (daughter of Keith), Jean

HOROSCOPES

St. James (mother of Martin Starr) and Michael Pena.

“Joker” (Unrated) Fantasy adventure about escapees from an insane asylum who established their own kingdom when their mental hospital was accidentally left off the map in the 1947 partition of India and Pakistan. Starring Akshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha and Chitrangda Singh. (In Hindi with subtitles)

“Little Birds” (R for violence, sexuality, nudity, rape, drug and alcohol use, and pervasive profanity) Coming-of-age road drama about a couple of teenagers (Juno Temple and Kay Panabaker) who make a break from their humdrum hometown after meeting some cute older boys (Chris Coy, Carlos Pena and Kyle Gallner) from L.A. Cast includes Kate Bosworth, Leslie Mann and Neal McDonough.

“Ornette: Made in America” (Unrated) Reverential biopic chronicling the career of avant garde jazz saxophonist Ornette Coleman. Includes appearances by Don Cherry, Charlie Haden, Jayne Cortez and Denardo Coleman.

“The Tall Man” (R for violence, profanity and terror) High attrition-rate horror flick about a rust belt ghost town where the town nurse (Jessica Biel) remains skeptical about rumors of disappearing children until her own son (Jakob Davies) vanishes into thin air in the middle of the night. With William B. Davis, Stephen McHattie and Jodelle Ferland.

ARIES You’ve done a lot of things in life that no one has agreed with at the beginning. Finding agreement this week will be difficult, but it should not deter you from moving forward. Feeling sorry for your loneliness will discolor what you are doing.

Be happy that you are alone.

TAURUS Eternal optimist, eternity is now. Get in touch with your hopefulness and be a beacon to others.

Try not to be taken in by promises made by others or promises you’ve made to yourself. Concerning your own affairs, avoid contemplating lofty subjects and seeking long-ranged solutions.

GEMINI Some say optimism is fantasy. Suppose the good thing you’re optimistic about never comes.

This week you’ll know that the joy of anticipating it is joy enough. Just the certainty of coming goodness is present goodness.

CANCER You might be looking into the buying or selling of a piece of property, and this week seems to be a favorable week for this type of negotiation. Be careful with the intricacies of the matter. Pay attention to details or it could cost you a great deal later.

LEO What a blessed week this will be. Spend it meditating on all that God has given you. This week think hard about some form of worship. Curtis Mayfield wrote a song called “Who Do You Love?” Someone should write one called “How Do You Love?” For your love lesson, the second song would be the one you should sing.

VIRGO Your self-discipline helps you to do more this week. People will be watching as you zip around with style and grace! Broaden your cultural horizons by trying new foods and meeting new people. You’ll be pleasantly surprised!

LIBRA The urge to chase off on a tangent may be strong this week. Take a few minutes to study the big picture and make sure any whims serve the bigger purpose. It’s a good week to do what needs to be done.

SCORPIO You’ll be full of good ideas this week, so make sure you write down the ones you don’t have time to put into action. You’ll want to share your thoughts on a grand scale, and your mind will seem truly universal to you. Try to be patient with those who are staggered by your brilliance.

SAGITTARIUS This week let your gentle spirit shine through.

Your rough and tumble side is not appropriate for the relationships that you’ll encounter. Someone will need your understanding and sympathy. Give it with sensitivity.

CAPRICORN You’re faced with a formidable task but when you defeat it, you’ll take big steps toward a goal.

Weigh in and give it your best. Your energy is high.

The task looks larger before you start. Compromise with a partner. The immediate future promises love.

AQUARIUS Yield to the harmony that lies below the surface of any seeming disagreement. Serenity is more important than your sense of righteousness. Questioning the motives of others will make your mind too suspicious to benefit from the unclear way in which love will present itself this week.

PISCES Always remember that loved ones make the world a wonderful habitat. Otherwise it is an empty place and no amount of material gain can give it the excitement you want and deserve.

Source: NNPA News Service

Page 12

HEALTH

CHEF TIMOTHY

Vegan crab cakes fare well on D.C. road trip

by Chef Timothy Moore Ph.D, N.M.D, C.N. Special to The New Tri-State Defender

If you’re curious about what vegans eat, then you need to get my newest cookbook, “Vegans Eat What?” It’s hot off the press and filled with scrumptious recipes that you can make effortlessly at home.

And on top of that, the recipes Dr. Timothy are not just good and tasty, they’re Moore just as healthy.

During a recent book signing in Washington, D.C., I autographed some books and prepared my famous vegan crab cakes. The group didn’t know what to expect, but eventually succumbed to the wafting of sizzling vegan crab cakes before sampling one bite. They didn’t know, however, that my crab cakes are made from fruit – jackfruit, to be exact – and not from the crab, itself. In spite of this discovery, they enjoyed every morsel nonetheless.

You, too, can eat good and healthy if you’d make the necessary dietary changes to include more fruit and vegetables. If you choose not to become a vegan, I understand. But try lessoning your consumption of meat.

It’ll do your body good.

There is no meat or meat byproducts in the crab cake that I made for the people in Washington. It is simply made from jackfruit, an unsweetened, picked-before-it-is-ripe, green fruit that’s packed in water – not in brim or syrup. If you follow the recipe, you can make crab cakes in about 30 minutes.

If you decide to try the crab cake, make sure you prepare something else with it – like baked Brussels sprouts. I can assure you, you’ll enjoy this simple dish down to the last bite. You can find jackfruit at any Asian store or an international market.

Here’s the recipe: Yields: 9 1 small onion

Crab Cakes (Jackfruit)

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Tri-State Defender

August 30 - September 5, 2012

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1 20-oz. can of young green jackfruit in water. Rinse and drain well.

1 15-oz. can of white beans.

Drain and rinse.

2 tbsp. of poultry seasoning or Old Bay Seasoning 2 large cloves garlic, pressed 2 tsp. of organic Tamari Soy Sauce 1 tsp. of prepared mustard (any kind) 1/8 tsp. of Turmeric Powder (optional) ½ cup of oatmeal (regular or quick) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Chop the onion finely in a food processor and place it in a medium bowl. Add jackfruit to processor. Pulse until broken into rough pieces about ½ inch. Do not grind into a paste. Add to onions. Place white beans and all remaining ingredients, except oatmeal. Pulse to distribute seasonings well. Add mixture to a bowl, along with oatmeal. Stir with jackfruit and onion. Line baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat. Scoop up approximately 1/3 cup of mixture and shape into patty. Carefully place on prepared baking sheet and repeat with remaining mixture. Bake each side 15 minutes on gas stove and 20 minutes on electric stove. Enjoy!

Chef Note: Jackfruit can only be purchased at an Asian store.

Brussels sprouts with pine uts

Prep time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 45 minutes Yields: 5 servings Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups Brussels sprouts, ends cut off 1/2 pound of shelled pine nuts 1 cup of water or vegetable stock, low sodium Directions: 1. Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.

2. In a medium-sized saucepan, boil three inches of water.

3. Add Brussels sprouts to boiling water.

4. Boil for 5 minutes.

5. Drain Brussels sprouts and add to a baking dish with pine nuts and vegetable stock.

6. Add 1 tablespoon of Mrs. Dash original seasoning.

7. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes.

Chef note: Enjoy with your crab cakes.

(Dr. Timothy Moore teaches nutrition, heart disease and diabetes reversal through a plant-based lifestyle. He is a professional speaker, wellness coach and personal plant-based chef.

He is the author of “47 Tips To Reverse Your Diabetes.” He can be reached by email at cheftimothy@cheftimoth moore.com, visit him at www.cheftimothymoore.com or follow him at www.twitter.com/cheftimmoore.)

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 21, 2012 AT 2:30 PM “VARIOUS ROAD AND HIGHWAY EQUIPMENT” (SB# I000181) (MC# 405) 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

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SEALED BID DUE FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2012 AT 2:30 PM “SHERIFFʼS DEPARTMENT VEHICLES” (SB# I000182) (MC# 406) 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 21, 2012 AT 2:30 PM “POLICE MOTORCYCLES” (SB# I000183) (MC# 407) By order of MARK H. LUTTRELL JR., MAYOR SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT

Better health to go on Girlz Taking Over menu Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Latrivia S. Nelson

Two years ago, a report entitled “F as in Fat: How Obesity Threatens America’s Future 2010,” ranked Tennessee as the second highest state in the nation for obesity. Memphis weighs heavily into those calculations and is in need of a health reboot.

It all starts with a single step – a step towards the gym, a step towards a brisk walk, a step away from the wrong kinds of foods and a step up from the collective unhealthy mindset. Local entrepreneur Michelle McLaurin is working hard to help Memphis do just that with Girlz Taking Over (GTO), which she created in April 2010.

“Girlz Taking Over has started to promote physical fitness and living a healthy lifestyle through our fitness

company GTO Fitness On The Go, which is the first of many brands we are creating to accomplish our mission,” said McLaurin.

And just what is their mission?

According to Michelle McLaurin, McLaurin GTO’s mission is to manage and motivate girls and women to be successful in entertainment and sports careers by empowering and encouraging them to feed their mind, body, and spirit the right nutrients to stimulate growth inside and out. However, even those in other professions can certainly benefit from the program.

GTO Fitness On The Go is a mobile fitness company focusing on women’s personal health and fitness.

It provides customized exercise routines and the convenience of meeting women in their homes, offices, parks, at GTO’s personal studio or anywhere else that is suitable so that life doesn’t get in the way of their health or goals. For moms who can’t get away to the gym without a babysitter, professionals who can’t get away from their offices or senior citizens who don’t feel comfortable going to a high-pace gym, GTO is pitched as the way forward..

(For more information, email info@girlztakingover.com or girlztakingover@yahoo.com. Social network mediums include Facebook (GirlzTakingOver) and Twitter (GirlzTakingOver) or visit www.girlztakingover.com.)

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Page 13

‘History Detectives’ host to keynote LOC Middle Passage vigil

The 2012 Middle Passage Commemoration is Thursday (Aug. 30) at 7 p.m. at Metropolitan Baptist Church. The ceremony is a vigil and lecture in honor of the millions of Africans who perished during the treacherous middle passage to America.

Participants also will light candles in honor of those who survived.

“Our country’s agriculture system exists because of the strong men and women who survived the middle passage,” said Dr. Femi Ajanaku, professor of African American Studies at The LeMoyne-Owen College.

Dr. Tukufu Zuberi, the host of “History Detectives,” which airs Tuesdays at 7 p.m. on WKNO Channel 10, will be the guest speaker.

The show is devoted to exploring the complexities of historical mysteries by searching out the facts, myths and conundrums that connect local folklore, family legends and interesting objects.

Zuberi’s research focuses on race, African and African Diaspora populations. Thr event is free. Visit www.loc.edu for more information.

Southern Heritage Classic to aid Mid-South Food Bank

The Southern Heritage Classic is holding a Classic Community Service Day on Sept. 6, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Mid-South Food Bank for all Classic supporters to sort and pack food.

Classic Community Service Day also will include a food drive of one Classic tailgate item: chili with meat and beans. All participants in the volunteer event are encouraged to bring cans of chili, which is a protein-rich full meal item that is an excellent source of good nutrition.

“Every year, the Southern Heritage Classic brings the community together with events all weekend. We wanted to add this Classic Community Service event at the Food Bank to enable our supporters to give back to the community in a special way,” said Fred Jones, president of SMC Entertainment and founder of the Southern Heritage Classic.

Volunteers should contact volunteer coordinator Paula Rushing at Mid-South Food Bank, 901-373-0400 or prushing@ midsouthfoodbank.org or SMC Entertainment, 901-398-6655.

Dedication for District 7 gateway sculpture set

What was once a neglected street corner now serves as showcase for a large-scale steel sculpture that symbolizes resurrection and regeneration at the southwest corner of Hollywood Street and Chelsea Avenue. The vibrantly painted work of art, inspired by the Tennessee State Tree – the Dogwood – was designed, forged and fabricated by the Metal Museum, the only such museum in North America.

The dedication and celebration for the sculpture will be hosted by the Midtown North Community Association and Rhodes College on Sept.

6 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. It will feature refreshments, music and remarks by District 7 Councilman Lee Harris and other local leaders.

The UrbanArt Commission, the independent non-profit organization that administers the City of Memphis Percent-for-Art Program, commissioned the project through an open, local competition. Seven Gateway projects – one for each of the City Districts – are under way, with the District 7 dedication to take place as the first.

Dr. Maya Angelou crowned the Heartlight Celebration of Agape, which has over 42 years of service to the local community. (Photos by Warren Roseborough)

Worthy of praise, Dr. Maya Angelou heaps thanks on others Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Nicole R. Harris

Literary legend Dr. Maya Angelou is a living testament to how individual responsibility is a reflection of one’s self.

That reality was on display as she spoke at the 14th annual Agape Heartlight Celebration at The Cannon Center for Performing Arts last Saturday (Aug. 25).

“Agape is love. Sometimes we use it loosely, but it means I take responsibility for the time I take up and the space I occupy, said Angelou, the keynote speaker for Agape’s largest annual fundraising event. “It means I love you....I take responsibility for myself as I treat you, strangers and friends.”

Angelou told listeners of her humble beginnings. Born on April 4, 1928 in St. Louis, Angelou was raised there and in Stamps, Ark. Following a traumatic ex-

perience, she became mute for six years, only speaking to her brother, whom she referred to as her “king.”

Even through abuse and racial discrimination, Angelou broke barriers and did not let her circumstances define who she was to be in life. She went on to become a civil rights activist, filmmaker, historian, actress, producer, dramatist, educator, novelist, memoirist, and as she demonstrated on stage, a revered poet. All of this because of helping hands who took responsibility, even when they didn’t have to.

“The only reason that I had that blessing was because of the many rainbows (in my life), said Angelou.

“Many of them were black, many white, some Asian, some Spanish speaking. If they could see me now. Just those who said, ‘I believe you can do it, Maya....Here, here’s a chance. What’s your name?’ And not to even remember

my name, but to help me. Imagine.”

Angelou was quick to display her humourous side throughout the evening.

When explaining why she decided to stop traveling by air, she mentioned that she procured superstar Prince’s bus for her road trips; pausing to affectionately run her fingers through her silver mane.

“I never trust people that don’t laugh,” she said.

With over 71 doctorate degrees and numerous educational institutes dedicated in her name, Angelou encouraged the crowd to imagine the possibilities.

“See where I came from, Stamps, Ark.; a mute. And today you’ve come to hear me speak. Imagine it. And I have come to thank you. Thank you for being rainbows in somebody’s life.”

Agape’s Heartlight Celebration benefits all of Agape’s programs, including homeless service, mentoring, foster care, adoption, maternity services and counseling.

MAHS plans celebration of school’s 10-year run

The Memphis Academy of Health Sciences Middle & High School will celebrate its tenth year as a Tennessee public charter school during its Second Annual State-of-the-School Dinner from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Holiday Inn, University of Memphis on Oct. 13.

This event is a fundraiser to support extracurricular activities and will be hosted by radio personality, Stan Bell. The keynote speaker will be sports great, Elliot Perry.

The cost is $50 per person and includes entertainment from 9 p.m. to midnight.

BRIEFLY: All ZIP codes in Shelby County have tested positive for West Nile Virus. The Health Department continues to conduct truckmounted spraying of EPA-approved insecticides, weather permitting. ZIP codes 38017, 38125 and 38139 are scheduled for 7:45 p.m. to 10:45 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 4.

The Soulsville Music Academy orchestra set the tone for an evening that featured Dr. Maya Angelou, widely acclaimed as one of contemporary literatureʼs premier voices.

Leading by example…

Memphis Grizzlies head coach Lionel Hollins gets his eyes checked during the annual Lionel Hollins Bowling for Backpacks fundraiser. MidSouth youth reap school supplies, uniforms and backpacks from the eventʼs proceeds.

The event was held Aug. 18 at Winchester Bowl and included a health fair.

(Photo by Warren Roseborough)

Time to dance…

Barbara A. Tyler knew what to do when she hit the dance floor at her retirement celebration last Saturday (Aug. 25). Tyler was a teacher for 36 years. (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)

SPORTS

Page 14

Tri-State Defender

August 30 - September 5, 2012

Tigers face climb to respect as college football returns Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by J.R. Moorhead

What’s the worst time of the year for sports fans? Many would say the doldrums that are post-NBA finals excitement and mid-season baseball coupled with being able to smell football in the air. This year, sports lovers were able to soothe their pain with the Summer Olympics.

Still, the wait for college football season to begin was still weighing heavy on their minds. It’s like that feeling they used to get as children the night before Christmas. Now, they are all grown-up and today (Aug. 30) is their new favorite holiday. And it doesn’t

matter if they’ve been naughty or nice because FOOTBALL IS BACK! The season is starting off with a bang, as 30 teams are set to strap it up and square off on Thursday night. The night’s biggest match-up seems to be an early SEC East clash between No. 9 South Carolina and Vanderbilt.

On Friday night (Aug. 31), there is another early season game with big implications as top 25 opponents Michigan State (13) and Boise State (24) are set to do battle. And Saturday night (Sept. 1) will keep the adrenaline going as Alabama (2) looks the defend its national title with a tough first contest versus Michigan (8).

There is another game Sat-

urday night that hasn’t been receiving as much national hype. The University of Memphis Tigers are set to open their season against the UTMartin Skyhawks.

It isn’t expected that the Tigers would be receiving much publicity, as they have only won three games over the last two seasons, but this year Memphis, under the guidance of new head coach Justin Fuente, hopes to usher in a new era of Tiger football.

It isn’t going to change over night and its apparent from coach Fuente’s attitude and comments that he knows this program is going to have to make big strides to turn the corner.

There are two types of

coaches, the kind that tell people what they want to hear and those that tell it like it is. The Tigers’ first-year coach would most certainly fall into the second category. Many may interpret Fuente’s comments as harsh and say he comes off negative. But anyone that has been following Memphis football for any length of time knows that there are serious problems ailing the program.

Maybe what the Tigers really need is for someone to come in and be realistic about the state of the program and make a long-term commitment to changing it for the better. Is Fuente going to be that guy? Time will tell.

The UT-Martin game this Saturday will be the first

Mayor AC Wharton Jr.ʼs image on the new video board that is ready to wow fans at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium. (Photo by Warren Roseborough) chance for the True Blue Nation to get a look at the their Tigers. Memphis should win the game, but more importantly, the fans want to see how they win. Are they going to come out sluggish or firing on all cylinders? You can only

make one first impression.

The whole season will not be determined under the lights at the Liberty Bowl this weekend.

Yet, the events that unfold could give us a glimpse into what the future holds for the Tigers and the 2012-13 campaign.

‘Enjoy the process of getting better’

Elliot Perry spices Celebrity Sports Breakfast

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Andre Mitchell

A breakfast of fried chicken, waffles, eggs and juice mixed with a guest appearance by Quincy Pondexter of the Memphis Grizzlies and spiced by a verbal challenge from Elliot Perry helped make for a hearty case of outreach at the annual Celebrity Sports Breakfast last Saturday (Aug. 25).

This year’s annual sports breakfast was held on the campus of The LeMoyne-Owen College (LOC) in the newly renamed Bruce Hall/Jerry C. Johnson Gymnasium. As usual, it was a key element of the 2012 Hank Aaron Celebrity Sports weekend, benefiting the United Negro College Fund and the college.

Radio personality, Stan Bell,

served as emcee, the Rev. Melvin Watkins delivered the invitation, and LOC President Johnnie B. Watson gave the greeting, with a performance

by Watoto de Afrika and a word of thanks from Robert ‘Bob’ Simpson, the 2012 steering committee chair.

Perry, a Memphis High School legend, University of Memphis standout and NBA veteran filled the host role with ease and determination. He spoke with The New Tri-State Defender about the opportunity.

Tri-State Defender: How long have you been involved with the Hank Aaron Celebrity Sports Weekend event?

Elliot Perry: I believe this is my eighth year being involved with the event. It has been a joy to watch the entire Celebrity Sports Weekend event grow bigger and better each year.

TSD: What’s what makes

this event special?

EP: There are several reasons that help make this event special. To see all the support of those involved in helping to expand the event, the companies, the Memphis community, LeMoyne-Owen College, the history of the Negro Leagues and especially the parents and kids who come out to participate year after year are simply wonderful.

Seemingly, each year it grows bigger and better. This year the 5K race/walk had over 300 participants, the golf tournament is a huge draw and of course the Black Tie Gala helps to bring in financial contributions that LeMoyneOwen College and the United Negro College Fund can use to help their students, who may not be students otherwise.

TSD: What do you hope young people gain most by attending the breakfast?

EP: I hope that they are

challenged by the words of encouragement from ordinary, everyday people, who have been able to accomplish some extra ordinary goals in school, in sports, in business and in life period. I want young people to realize and know that it all starts with them. First, get your education, because knowledge is power; the more you know, the more opportunities you’ll have.

Also, never let anyone drown out the inner voice.

Most kids already know what they want to be when their young, but their dreams must be encouraged and not discouraged. But, there’s also two parts to that piece. The other part is that our young people have to be willing to work hard to meet the challenge of their dreams. All the highly successful people I know – and you can think of – had to work hard to get where they are. No successful person is exempt from working hard.

Elliot Perry was a role-model in action at the Celebrity Sports Breakfast. (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley) TSD: What words of encouragement do you have for those youngsters who weren’t able to attend, but might be aspiring student-athletes?

EP: Try to learn from those who have come before you, like so many great leaders, men and women, here at LeMoyne-Owen College, the city of Memphis, etc. We tend to learn best from those who have come before us.

Also, I want to encourage young people to take time to enjoy the process of getting better, stronger, smarter, because it takes time. You can’t be LeBron, Kobe, Jordan…Oprah Winfrey, Steve Jobs, etc., over night. They all had to work hard and it took time to get where they are in life. So I stress to young people, continue to work hard and enjoy the process!