March 12 2015

March 12 - 18, 2015

VOL. 64, No. 9

www.tsdmemphis.com

75 Cents

Selma’s historic call

Looking back, marching forward

by Wiley Henry

whenry@tsdmemphis.com

Councilwoman Wanda Halbert

New MPLOY program puts summer focus on 1,000 area youth City of Memphis to offer training and employment opportunities Memphis youth – 1,000 of them – will be engaged in “enriching opportunities” beginning June 1st through July 31st by way of the MPLOY Youth Summer Experience program that Memphis City Officials detailed on Wednesday.

At the request of Councilwoman Wanda Halbert, the program is being funded by $2 million set aside by the Memphis City Council.

“As a result of Councilwoman Halbert’s leadership, we are now able to add to the promising options youth have to be positively engaged in the community and participate in personal and professional development activities,” said Mayor A C Wharton Jr., during an announcement in the Hall of Mayors at Memphis City Hall.

“Our goal is to provide our young people with skills and experiences that will help them grow, as well as, provide them compensation.”

Youth Services Director James Nelson said the six-week session will allow youth ages 14-21 to enter into various career paths via Memphis’ top employers in the most competitive industries, including banking, retail, the arts, healthcare and business.

Career paths include training for middle school students, entry-level positions for traditional and nontraditional high school students and internships for college-age students.

Additionally, participants will attend weekly information sessions on industry-specific jobs, “It’s imperative that we prepare our city’s youth as early as possible for the next level in education and in the workforce,” said Halbert.

“We will do that by offering not only summer positions to youth, but positions according to their interest to ensure that the experience is invaluable to both the student and the employer.”

Applicants will be selected through a lottery system and compensated based on age group and education level.

To be eligible for MPLOY Youth Summer Experience, prospective applicants must first attend one of four Youth Empowerment Symposium events held March 17th through March 28th.

(For more information on MPLOY Youth or how to apply or become a business partner, visit www.cityofmemphisyouth.org.)

MEMPHIS WEEKEND

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

H-62o - L-51o

H-66o - L-46o

Rain

REGIONAL TEMPS LITTLE ROCK NASHVILLE JACKSON, MS

Cloudy

SUNDAY

H-60o - L-42o

Mostly Sunny

Friday Saturday Sunday H-64 L-49 H-67 L-46 H-63 L-42 H-63 L-52 H-65 L-47 H-62 L-38 H-70 L-53 H-70 L-49 H-69 L-45

A helicopter hovered above, a small plane zipped across the airspace and a tiny drone flew over the throng of marchers making their way across the Edmund Pettus Bridge on Sunday afternoon (March 8th) to commemorate the 50th anniversary of “Bloody Sunday.”

As far as one’s eyes could see, the throng – perhaps as many as 70,000 – stretched up and down U.S. Route 80 and in between cross-streets drawn by the memory of that horrific event in 1965 Selma Selma, Ala., when blood was spilled in pursuit • Let’s go back to Selma soon? of the right to vote.

• ‘President Men, womObama’s en and children Speech from myriad parts of the Opinion, Page 4 country formed • Selma’s foot a 2015 chorus of multi-gen- soldiers retrace their steps erational, multi-cultural • Selma and the and multi-ethnic promise of youth marchers singing in unison the Pages 8 and 9 freedom songs that set the tone and temperament of the tumultuous civil rights movement: “Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Around” and “We Shall Overcome.”

The Edmund Pettus Bridge stretches across the Alabama River, stand-

The Rev. Dr. William Barber II, president of the North Carolina NAACP and leader of the North Carolina Forward Together Moral Movement, leads marchers across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Ala. (Photo: Wiley Henry) ing as a symbol of defiance and a stark reminder of the tragic events that still wrench hearts 50 years later.

The death of Jimmy Lee Jackson ignited the movement in Selma, said the Rev. Dr. William Barber II, president of the North Carolina NAACP and leader of the North Carolina Forward Together Moral Movement, a healthcare initiative.

Jackson was a civil rights activ-

ist in Marion, Ala., and a deacon in the Baptist church when an Alabama state trooper shot him on Feb. 18th, 1965. He died eight days later; the victim of what Barber calls an “assassination.”

Selma’s hate also claimed the life of the Rev. James Reeb, a white Unitarian minister who was beaten to death. Seventeen members of Reeb’s family commemorated Bloody Sun-

SEE SELMA ON PAGE 3

Ferguson chief, judge, manager resign posts

Who has the best soul food in town?

by Chris King

Here’s a list to get the discussion going ing in them tend to be hardworking types with a strong sense of comSpecial to The New Tri-State Defender munity. Second, the restaurants are small businesses run by hardworkNow, that’s a heck of a question. ing people who supply much-needAnd after an informal survey of ed jobs for hardworking employees. what seems to be a kazillion spots to Most of those on this list have been find soul food in Memphis, I’m con- in business for decades, and our vinced it’s harder not to find good spotlight interviews reveal a great soul food in Memphis than it is to deal about why African-American do so. business and entrepreneurship is so Interest in the topic was inspired important. by the drama surrounding the poYou can’t go wrong if you hit any tential opening of these of Sweetie Pie’s p l a c e s on Beale Street. when the Long a St. Louis soul food favorite before urge is the OWN netupon you. work made the Follow restaurant a nathe stars tional tourist atnorth to traction, Sweetie 629 ChelPie’s would be sea and a natural fit for you come Beale, although to what that possibiliused to ty is now much be called in doubt given Melanie’s. an ongoing disNow repute between n a m e d the owners and Miss Girlocal contraclee’s Soul tors. Amid the F o o d uncertainty, the Restauidea of actually rant, is locating Sweetie recogPie’s elsewhere – nized by perhaps Raleigh fan Janice Springs Mall or Crawford In business for 38 years, Willistein Soulsville – is as “always Myrick has developed a soul food floating about. on the reputation that keeps customers Meanwhile, one.”

Loold soul-food fa- coming to Stein’s, and that includes cal blogvorites abound Fred Jones, entertainment promot- ger Rita in Memphis. To er and Southern Heritage Classic Burton has founder.

(Photo: Tyrone P. Easley) come up with a created a list for this samcool blog pler platter, I employed a couple banner for them if you want to find of simple techniques. First, I put them on the web. out text messages asking people to Another “Miss” you have to visit name the best local soul food spot is Miss Peggy’s Just Heavenly at and went in pursuit. I supplemented 326 S. Cleveland. That’s the formal that by reaching out to the guys and name, but the people who like it gals who daily handle the blue-collar simply call it “Miss Peggy’s.” jobs that keep the city going. Their Next up is The Best Kept Secret parked pickups and crew trucks tend at Danny Thomas & Chelsea in the to signal their choices.

Uptown District. Shout outs on the In going around on the soul-food web say they don’t play when packrestaurant trail, two common threads came to light. First, the people eatSEE BEST ON PAGE 2

day and reminded the marchers of Reeb’s gallantry and commitment to the “movement.”

“We came here, 17 of us, to stand with you in love and solidarity,” Reeb’s daughter said. “We are going to keep marching with you until justice is served.”

A group of white supremacists at-

St. Louis American

by Tony Jones

On her first visit to Alcenia’s, Shelly Michelle (left) gets B.J. Chester-Tamayo’s renowned warm greeting.

The queen of soul (food) Down there on Lauderdale,” Stein’s is cookin’

by Tony Jones Special to The New Tri-State Defender

When she sat down to talk with me after another busy day, Willistein Myrick was quite surprised to learn that many people in Memphis think she has the best soul food restaurant in the city.

From an informal text poll to just asking people all over town – even as they pointed out other favorites – nearly every person I spoke to said to visit Stein’s (pronounced “Steen’s”) “down there on Lauderdale,” if I wanted to know what real soul food is supposed to taste like.

Stein and her granddaughter, Jacqueline Myrick, couldn’t agree about what’s the most popular dish on the menu. Chandler said, “Macaroni and Cheese!”

SEE QUEEN ON PAGE 2

After a Department of Justice investigative report revealed the Ferguson police chief working directly with the city manager and municipal courts to raise revenue for the city through is- Former Fersuing tickets, all guson Police of these officials Chief Thomas have resigned, Jackson one by one, and the Missouri Supreme Court has stripped the city of administration of its municipal court.

Ronald Brockmeyer, the municipal judge in Ferguson, John Shaw, its city manager, and Police Chief Thomas Jackson now have all resigned in the aftermath of the report, issued on March 4.

“A fish rots from the head down,” said state Sen. Maria Chappelle-Nadal, D-University City, who was active in Ferguson protests. “The DOJ report revealed that the instructions came from the top. Make up the rules. Make sure your friends are exempt. Arrest and fine all the black people.”

She suggested that Ferguson MaySEE RESIGN ON PAGE 3 BULLETIN: Two officers were shot during a protest in front of the Ferguson Police Department early Thursday, authorities said, as demonstrators gathered following the resignation of the embattled police chief of the St. Louis suburb. A 32-year-old officer from nearby Webster Groves was shot in the face and a 41-year-old officer from St. Louis County was shot in the shoulder, St. Louis County Police Chief Jon Belmar said at a news conference. Both were taken to a local hospital, where Belmar said they were conscious. He said he did not have further details about their conditions but described their injuries as “serious.” – AP

March 12 - 18, 2015

Page 2

NEWS

BEST

QUEEN

ing their plates. Go see!

B.J. Chester-Tamayo, owner of Alcenia’s Southern Style Cuisine in the Pinch District, has carved out a respectable niche for herself as the proprietor of what many declare the most unique and friendly intimate restaurant in Downtown Memphis. She recently told the TSD, “People thought I was crazy when I told them I was going to open a nice, sit down soul food restaurant in downtown Memphis, but I’ve been here 17 years and I’m going to keep going.”

Taking over from L&H’s four-decade run on Third near Crump, Willie Moore’s kept the soul food and blues rolling until that fabled spot was destroyed by fire. Now the restaurant is a downtown centerpiece at 109 N. Main, having taken over the spot made popular by the Wall Street Deli. With Moore’s history promoting blues, I wonder if he could use a spot on Beale?

Further south on the mall, is the DejaVu restaurant and downtown resident Ann Brown says the smothered pork chops are the best in town. The restaurant promotes itself as a New Orleans cuisine spot, but the food is so good I’d be wrong not to mention them.

Leaving downtown, get on South Danny Thomas and stop at 685, where you will find the Gay Hawk Restaurant. The Bobo family has an intense buffet following, and just walking in transports you to good ole times at the juke joint.

The most fabled soul food place in town, The Four Way Grill at 998 Mississippi, is still worth a visit. Along with generations of customers, Soulsville’s Tim Sampson swears they’re half the reason he works so hard.

Now, here’ a killer spot you might not ever notice, if you didn’t get a tip-off. The Shop and Save at 1499 S. Third is a small sundry store with second to none in variety, quantity and quality. There are scads of corner groceries that duplicate their model. But unlike the always hot and ready food at Shop and Save, you generally have to get to the corner stores early or you’ll find gravy daring you to buy some mashed potatoes and macaroni and cheese crunchier than cereal.

Professional Collections Network owner Jimmy Mitchell says he likes to dip down to Patrick’s at 4972 Park Ave. when he wants some soul food.

And V101’s popular Stan Bell swears by The Crockpot #2 at 7911 East Shelby Drive as the real deal if he’s revved up after the Old School Drive at Five evening set.

That’s the granddaughter’s answer.

“The beef short ribs, but really, our customers buy us out,” said he elder Myrick.

“We ran out of food today.”

In Willistein Myrick’s story resides the truth of what soul food really represents, entrepreneurship and strong African-American communities. In business here for 38 years, Myrick owns the building, which has a very fabled history.

“Yes, this is the same building where Harding’s Dock was,” she begins.

“He used to rent from me. I had a beauty shop in another building next door, and there was a grocery store here, Ed Cooks.”

Myrick purchased the entire building when Cook moved in the late ’70s.

“I started the restaurant in 1977,” she said. “I had a good trainer, Wilma. She used to work at Justine’s (Restaurant), and my husband (Alfred Myrick, now deceased) worked there also as a cook. Everybody called him “Chop-Chop.”

She taught me how to cook in volume and run a restaurant. I learned everything from her.”

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

Special mentions While technically a cafeteria, Picadilly’s at 3968 Elvis Presley Blvd. is a neighborhood gathering spot with its own charm.

On the wall at the China Inn at 4430 Elvis Presley you’ll find a nice surprise from back in the day when they won an award from the Black Business Association. They’re packed everyday, with one side serving traditional Chinese, the other real soul food.

Sundays are packed beyond

The New Tri-State Defender

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

Only four years old, Kountry Cookin at 1128 Winchester has become a soul-food staple in Whitehaven. Owners Homer Fulton and Coretta Fulton-Langs put the emphasis on “fresher food.” (Photo: Tony Jones, INK!) belief. Might be good to bring some shades, though, because gluttony is often on great display here.

Only four years old, Kountry Cookin at 1128 Winchester (behind the Walgreen’s on Elvis Presley), has become a staple in Whitehaven. Owner Homer Fulton has built a solid reputation for the clean mini-cafeteria. The owner of Rainbow Pest Control, which has been in business for more than 30 years, Fulton branched off because he felt he could offer a difference.

“Fresher food. We buy greens out of the fields and we don’t used canned foods,” he said. “I’ve always been an entrepreneur from the time I was a kid. I never really worked a regular job. I sold newspapers, cut grass and anything I could find as a kid. We need more of that. That is how we keep businesses rolling.”

And finally, quite a few people said we would be wrong if we did not spotlight Kimble’s Fish Market at 4672 S. Third. Fresh fish on one side, fried to order on the other.

The neighborhood folks love this place and say the food is truly something special. Coming out with her order, Debbie Nunley said she’s been going there for years. “I just came back from Tunica, and I didn’t eat down there because I wanted to make sure I got by here,” said Nunley. “Ain’t nothing

like the real deal.” Hollywood Fish Market at 1383 N. Hollywood also offers fresh and prepared fish.

Reporter’s notebook: • The Church Health Center’s Dr. Clarence Davis, who is featured regularly on “The Bev Johnson Show” on WDIA (1070 AM), says no matter what you like to eat, “get up and move,” if you want to stay on top of your health.

• “Soul Food Junkies” is a must-see YouTube documentary that really breaks down the roots of why nothing can replace soul food on our tables and in our hearts. Social commentator Dick Gregory has several memorable spots in the film, including a classically foul snippet explaining how he makes food choices. Several authors weigh in on soul food and health.

• The web is a good place to check out soul food. Channel 10 has a great list out there, http://wkno.org/pdfs/lc_soulfood_2012.pdf.

• A shout out to the Iron Skillet in West Memphis, which a number of over-theroad diesel truck drivers singled out for its amazing soul food buffet.

• No doubt others have choices they would include on such a list for various reason.

Visit the TSD Facebook page and sound off.

Greater Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church 3077 Johnson Avenue – Memphis, TN 38112 Phone: (901) 452-8742

Pastoral Vacancy Announcement Greater Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church is prayerfully seeking a full-time pastor called by God to be the spiritual and administrative leader of the congregation.

The candidate must be a born again, baptized believer in Jesus Christ. The ideal candidate will be a leader with sound biblical doctrine as listed in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:69. The successful candidate will be responsible to God and the church to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, to preach and teach the Bible, to provide Christian leadership, and to engage in pastoral care of the congregation.

Interested candidates should submit the following: 1. Cover letter, Updated and complete resume, Detailed listing of ministerial and pastoral experiences, Copies of diplomas, degrees, ministerial license, and ordination certificate 5. Four references: Two (2) from pastors/clergy, One (1) from lay person, One (1) personal (should not be a family member) All documents should be submitted to: The Pastoral Search Committee of Greater Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church – P. O. Box 111366, Memphis, TN 38111-1366 - All documents must be received between February 15, 2015 and March 15, 2015.

Debbie Nunley wants “the real deal” when she wants soul food and her favorite is Kimble’s Fish Market at 4672 S. Third.

March 12 - 18, 2015

The New Tri-State Defender

RESIGN

CONTINUED FROM FRONT or James Knowles III should be next to go. “Your move, mayor,” Chappelle-Nadal said in a statement.

Ferguson municipal court cases were transferred to Judge Roy L. Richter of the Court of Appeals for the Eastern District of Missouri. Richter, who will begin hearing cases on March 16, will also have wide latitude to reform Ferguson’s court procedures.

“Judge Richter will bring a fresh, disinterested perspective to this court’s practices, and he is able and willing to implement needed reforms,” Chief Judge Mary Russell said in a statement.

The court also is assigning staff from its state courts administrator’s office to review Ferguson municipal court practices and to assist Richter in making necessary changes.

“Extraordinary action is warranted in Ferguson, but the court also is examining reforms that are needed on a statewide basis,” Russell said.

Brendan Roediger of the Saint Louis University law clinic encouraged the court to make systemic reforms.

“It’s the supervisory authority that we’ve been asking the Supreme Court to utilize all along,” Roediger said. “I certainly don’t believe that Brockmeyer is the worst municipal court judge.

I hope the Supreme Court uses this power to look at other courts and to take similar measures with other courts.”

Brockmeyer also is out as prosecutor of Dellwood, and on indefinite leave as city prosecutor in Florissant. He remains city prosecutor in Vinita Park, and his status as municipal judge in Breckenridge Hills is under review.

Richter, the appeals judge who will hear cases from Ferguson, chairs the Municipal Judge Education Committee and supports the work being pushed by the St. Louis County Municipal Court Improvement Committee. In a January 14 letter to the volunteer group, he wrote, “I am a firm believer that those within the system are in a better position to propose and enact positive improvements than to have ‘improvements’ come from the outside.”

The group, comprised mostly of court personnel, has drafted a series of voluntary reforms, including making volunteer lawyers available for defendants and encouraging the use of community service instead of fines when defendants can’t pay. It also wants to draft uniform procedures for payments plans, which are required in some circumstances by a new Supreme Court rule that takes effect in July.

Advocates for municipal court defendants, such as Roediger and Thomas Harvey of the Arch City Defenders, say the reforms proposed by the court improvement committee don’t go far enough. The two attorneys were in Jefferson City on Monday, March 9 asking that all municipal court cases be transferred to state courts, where professional judges are more familiar with court procedures.

“There’s also a judge available at all times, so people won’t be sitting for days at a time without having the ability to have bail reviewed,” Roediger said.

(Rachel Lippmann of St. Louis Public Radio (news.stlpublicradio.org) contributed to this report.)

Page 3

NEWS

Obama aims to clamp down on federal student loan servicers

by Josh Lederman Associated Press

WASHINGTON – More than 40 million Americans are in debt thanks to their education, and most of their loans come from Uncle Sam. So President Barack Obama is aiming to clamp down on the private companies that service federal student debt with a presidential memorandum issued on Tuesday.

Obama’s policy tweaks, unveiled during a speech at Georgia Tech in Atlanta, don’t require new legislation from Congress – a plus as far as the White House is concerned.

But they won’t be earth-shattering for student-borrowers, either.

Instead, the new steps seek to tilt the student lending process more toward the student, with a particular focus on graduates struggling to make their monthly payments.

“We are trying to enhance the borrower experience from beginning to end,” said Ted Mitchell, the Education Department’s under secretary for higher education.

Obama’s memorandum targets third parties like Sallie Mae/Navient that contract with the government to collect on federal student debt.

Those companies will be required to better inform borrowers about their repayment options and notify them when they are delinquent on payments, the White House said.

The president is also instructing the government to create a website where students can see all their federal loans in one place – a major problem for students with multiple loans, as well as those

SELMA

CONTINUED FROM FRONT tacked her father on March 9th, 1965, after Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. called for the nation’s clergy to support the second attempt to march from Selma to Montgomery. Reeb died two days later.

About five months later (Aug. 6th), the price paid by the Selma-connected faithful helped usher in the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Section 4 of the Voting Rights Act of 1966 bolstered that landmark legislation. Now, said Barber, “It’s time to fight again.”

Barber’s resolve is tied to the U.S. Supreme Court’s June 2013 decision striking down Section 4

Policy tweaks seek to tilt the student lending process more toward the student, with a particular focus on graduates struggling to make their monthly payments.

whose loans have been sold by one lender to another. He’s also asking for a single website where borrowers can file complaints about loan servicers, in an apparent recognition that customer service for student borrowers has often been shoddy in the past.

Although Obama has long lamented the burden placed on young Americans and the broader economy by student debt and college affordability, he’s run into obstacles that have limited his efforts to improve the situation.

Using his executive authority,

Obama expanded a federal loan repayment plan to allow more low-income Americans to cap their monthly payments at an affordable percentage of their income. But when Obama this year proposed to eliminate the so-called “529” college savings plan to make way for education tax benefits, opposition was so strong he had to jettison the idea. And the president’s State of the Union pitch this year for two years of free community college for every eligible American has gained little traction in the Republican-controlled Congress.

Obama will also direct federal agencies like the Education Department and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to determine whether more government rules are needed to keep student loan servicers in line. His memo also requires those companies to apply early payments from borrowers to loans with the highest interest rates, which could help students pay off their debt sooner.

as unconstitutional. “Chief Justice John Roberts said there was not enough racism in America to justify the Voting Rights Act,” Barber told the marchers.

“They did more with less. We have to do more with more,” said Barber, referring to the leaders and foot soldiers that fought and died for the right to vote in 1965 and encouraging the leaders and foot soldiers of today to call upon the moxie within themselves.

He blamed the Tea Party and the Koch brothers (Charles G. and David H. Koch) for today’s voter suppression tactics, saying the brothers, in part, are duly responsible.

“Voting is a right, a responsibility that we must exercise, and a ritual that everyone does,” said Randi Weingarten, president of

the 1.6 million-member American Federation of Teachers and a member of the AFL-CIO. While Barber and Weingarten both emphasized the importance of voting, Lucille Price lamented that young people don’t always participate in the political process.

“You know, young people piss me off because they don’t vote,” said Price, part of the Memphis contingent that joined people from all over the country at the historic event. The influx swelled the small Dallas County town up to its fringes.

Throughout the day, a cadre of young men tapped a rhythmic beat on djembe drums, entrepreneurs hawked food items and souvenirs, and the media swarmed over the humongous crowd.

“My feet are tired,” said Memphian Carolyn Matthews, who walked around almost non-stop for more than three hours until she finally tuckered out.

Matthews was part of a contingent of 50 Memphians that bussed into Selma on Sunday at noon. All, including the youngest marchers, were just as drained.

Elaine Lee Turner, owner of Heritage Tours of Memphis, who chartered the bus to Selma, noted that she, too, could use some rest.

On Sunday evening, after a day none of them will ever forget, the travel-weary but soul-filled Memphians re-boarded their bus, recalled what intrigued them in Selma, and then slumbered as much as they could on the way back home.

(Reach Josh Lederman on Twitter at http://twitter.com/joshledermanAP.)

March 12 - 18, 2015

Page 4

OPINION

The New Tri-State Defender

John H. Sengstacke Publisher (1951-1997)

The Mid-South’s Best Alternative Newspaper Powered by Best Media Properties, Inc.

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

Let’s go back to Selma soon!

I wish that I had gone to Selma.

Actually, I have been there. My dad once took my sister and I on a road trip to Pittsburgh, stopping along the way at civil rights movement sites, including Selma’s renowned Edmund Pettus Bridge.

That was in 1967, with “Bloody Sunday” still very fresh in our minds.

My day often told us of the hatred, violence and murderous rage that African Americans faced in the quest for equality. And on this trip there was stark silence as he detailed what had happened on that Alabama bridge two years earlier.

In 1965, the practice of state disenfranchisement related to the right of all people to vote, especially minorities in the South, took its toll. Voting rights activists had been murdered by the Ku Klux Klan, other race hate groups, and yes, even law enforcement. Many others were beaten, wounded and jailed for simply exercising the First Amendment right of peaceful dialogue in their quest to rectify a law that was unconstitutional.

On March 7th, 1965 a group of peaceful protesters were crossing the Edmund Pettus Bridge en route to the state capitol in Montgomery when they were brutally attacked by the State Police. The gross display of racial hatred and disrespect for social justice – and the subsequent marches – set President Johnson and Congress in motion. They did something our government, particularly Congress, has not done since; they moved swiftly to correct an issue of social injustice, with Johnson signing the Voting Rights Act on Aug. 6, 1965.

Fifty years later, we are moving forward from the commemoration of the Selma marches with the stark reality that past hatred has morphed into more sinister and dangerous practices. Voting rights are under vicious attack and police officers are killing unarmed minorities in record numbers. Perhaps the Selma commemorations will serve to bring us closer together to stop the hate, which will only happen if we become activists on a daily basis, not just 50year events.

Maybe we should all go to Selma every year or so to remind ourselves

that the struggle is far from over, and while we’re at it, we should change the name of that bridge. Edmund Pettus was a Confederate general and Grand Dragon of the Alabama Ku Klux Klan.

Rev. Rodney He was a top racist and white suBeard premacist icon.

The name serves as a reminder of history that no one should be proud of, unless you are a white supremacist. And get this, we have the numbers and influence to stamp out that “brand.” It would make the point that those of us who are for social justice, equality and human rights are united and strong together.

So let’s go again. Let’s dismantle hate capitals wherever we can. Let’s take our kids with us – like so many did this time – and begin to teach them what the people on that bridge were willing to give their lives for on that Bloody Sunday. Hopefully it would inspire them to want to give their lives for the cause we must keep on fighting until it doesn’t exist anymore. Let’s take everyone who can and will go because one group cannot do this alone. It takes our collective interest, passion and desire to make the statement that must be made if we will ever be the United States of America.”

It’s time to get out of our beds of complacency, apathy and ignorance move into the streets of political and social activism. It’s time to think ahead of those who would deny the constitutional right to vote, healthcare, education and even food to anyone based on the color of one’s skin.

Enough is enough! Let’s rewrite some history and take down the hate capitals. Selma is only the beginning and I’m going next time.

(The Rev. Rodney Beard is pastor of The Living Word Community Church in Nashville and president of The National Action Network for Greater Nashville. Contact him at pastorbeard@comcast.net.)

The need to revamp CNBC It was reported on March 4th, 2015 that NBC News was undergoing a shakeup in its leadership. Of course with the Brian Williams fiasco, the television news network has experienced rating share decline. However, the drop in viewership has not been confined to the evening news. Included in the drop-off is the audience that tunes into the business news channel, CNBC. As a small investor, I can certainly understand why there is erosion in CNBN’s viewers. I turn to the network for news I can use. I look for new trends, developments and personnel changes that will impact where I place my money.

Too often my quest has resulted in a futile investigation when I plug into CNBC. Especially, since President Barak Obama has been in office the channel has operated more as a political editorial than as a business news network. Even now when the economy has begun to pick up steam, CNBC has been decidedly negative.

Their bearish tone is clearly aimed at portraying President Obama as an impediment to economic progress.

Particularly, the reporter Rick Santelli spends all of his airtime teaching and preaching negative scare tactics on the United States’ economy.

According to this man nothing the Obama administration does is good for the nation.

When CNBC does decide to give a positive projection on a company it goes overboard. For example, it

will spend an inordinate amount of time on Apple.

While this company is discussed so extensively that the conversation becomes nonsensical, little is said of the broader econoRev. Dr. Ran- my. Viewers with dolph Meade questions about other companies Walker and even entire sectors are left with those questions day in and day out.

In short, as a business reporting television program, CNBC has failed miserably. Instead of being a tool for the inquisitive investor, CNBC has become a bias bearish advocate for the opponents of President Obama.

To find its way, CNBC needs to clean house. It desperately needs diversity in its programming and reporting. A practically all-white conservative Republican reporting crew is not going to give viewers the in-depth and broad coverage that is needed to make informed decisions in the marketplace. Give the people what they need and they will watch your channel. If not, then go the way of the dinosaur.

(The Rev. Dr. Randolph Meade Walker is the pastor of Castalia Baptist Church.)

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The President points towards the Edmund Pettus Bridge during his speech. (White House photo: Pete Souza)

‘We know the march is not yet over’ President Obama’s Selma speech

imposing. But they gave courage to millions. They held no elected office.

It is a rare honor in this life to fol- But they led a nation. They marched low one of your heroes. And John as Americans who had endured hunLewis is one of my heroes. dreds of years of brutal violence, Now, I have to imagine that when countless daily indignities – but they a younger John Lewis woke up that didn’t seek special treatment, just the morning 50 years ago and made his equal treatment promised to them alway to Brown Chapel, heroics were most a century before. not on his mind. A day like this was What they did here will reverbernot on his mind. Young folks with ate through the ages. Not because the bedrolls and backpacks were mill- change they won was preordained; ing about. Veterans of the movement not because their victory was comtrained newcomers in the tactics of plete; but because they proved that non-violence; the right way to pro- nonviolent change is possible, that tect yourself when attacked. A doctor love and hope can conquer hate. described what tear gas does to the As we commemorate their achievebody, while marchers scribbled down ment, we are well-served to rememinstructions for contacting their loved ber that at the time of the marches, ones. The air was thick with doubt, many in power condemned rather anticipation and fear. And they com- than praised them. Back then, they forted themselves with the final verse were called Communists, or halfof the final hymn they sung: breeds, or outside agitators, sexual “No matter what may be the test, and moral degenerates, and worse – God will take care of you; they were called everything but the “Lean, weary one, upon His breast, name their parents gave them. Their God will take care of you.” faith was questioned. Their lives And then, his knapsack stocked were threatened. Their patriotism with an apple, a toothbrush, and a challenged. book on government – all you need And yet, what could be more for a night behind bars – John Lewis American than what happened in this led them out of the church on a mis- place? What could more profoundly sion to change America. vindicate the idea of America than President and Mrs. Bush, Governor plain and humble people – unsung, Bentley, Mayor Evans, Sewell, Rev. the downtrodden, the dreamers not Strong, members of Congress, elect- of high station, not born to wealth ed officials, foot soldiers, friends, fel- or privilege, not of one religious tralow Americans: dition but many, coming together to As John noted, there are places shape their country’s course? and moments in America where this What greater expression of faith in nation’s destiny has been decided. the American experiment than this, Many are sites of war – Concord and what greater form of patriotism is there Lexington, Appomattox, Gettysburg. than the belief that America is not yet Others are sites that symbolize the finished, that we are strong enough to daring of America’s character – Inde- be self-critical, that each successive pendence Hall and Seneca Falls, Kit- generation can look upon our imperfecty Hawk and Cape Canaveral. tions and decide that it is in our power Selma is such a place. In one af- to remake this nation to more closely ternoon 50 years ago, so much of our align with our highest ideals? turbulent history – the stain of slavThat’s why Selma is not some ery and anguish of civil war; the yoke outlier in the American experience. of segregation and tyranny of Jim That’s why it’s not a museum or a Crow; the death of four little girls static monument to behold from a in Birmingham; and the dream of a distance. It is instead the manifestaBaptist preacher – all that history met tion of a creed written into our foundon this bridge. ing documents: “We the People…in It was not a clash of armies, but a order to form a more perfect union.” clash of wills; a contest to determine “We hold these truths to be self-evithe true meaning of America. And be- dent, that all men are created equal.” cause of men and women like John These are not just words. They’re a Lewis, Joseph Lowery, Hosea Wil- living thing, a call to action, a roadmap liams, Amelia Boynton, Diane Nash, for citizenship and an insistence in the Ralph Abernathy, C.T. Vivian, An- capacity of free men and women to drew Young, Fred Shuttlesworth, Dr. shape our own destiny. For founders Martin Luther King, Jr., and so many like Franklin and Jefferson, for leadothers, the idea of a just America and ers like Lincoln and FDR, the success a fair America, an inclusive America, of our experiment in self-government and a generous America – that idea rested on engaging all of our citizens ultimately triumphed. in this work. And that’s what we celAs is true across the landscape of ebrate here in Selma. That’s what this American history, we cannot exam- movement was all about, one leg in ine this moment in isolation. The our long journey toward freedom. march on Selma was part of a broader The American instinct that led campaign that spanned generations; these young men and women to pick the leaders that day part of a long line up the torch and cross this bridge, of heroes. that’s the same instinct that moved We gather here to celebrate them. patriots to choose revolution over We gather here to honor the courage tyranny. It’s the same instinct that of ordinary Americans willing to en- drew immigrants from across oceans dure billy clubs and the chastening and the Rio Grande; the same instinct rod; tear gas and the trampling hoof; that led women to reach for the balmen and women who despite the lot, workers to organize against an gush of blood and splintered bone unjust status quo; the same instinct would stay true to their North Star that led us to plant a flag at Iwo Jima and keep marching towards justice. and on the surface of the Moon.

They did as Scripture instructed: It’s the idea held by generations of “Rejoice in hope, be patient in trib- citizens who believed that America ulation, be constant in prayer.” And is a constant work in progress; who in the days to come, they went back believed that loving this country reagain and again. When the trum- quires more than singing its praises pet call sounded for more to join, or avoiding uncomfortable truths. It the people came – black and white, requires the occasional disruption, young and old, Christian and Jew, the willingness to speak out for what waving the American flag and sing- is right, to shake up the status quo. ing the same anthems full of faith That’s America. and hope. A white newsman, Bill That’s what makes us unique.

Plante, who covered the marches That’s what cements our reputation then and who is with us here today, as a beacon of opportunity. Young quipped that the growing number of people behind the Iron Curtain would white people lowered the quality of see Selma and eventually tear down the singing. To those who marched, that wall. Young people in Sowethough, those old gospel songs must to would hear Bobby Kennedy talk have never sounded so sweet. about ripples of hope and eventualIn time, their chorus would well up ly banish the scourge of apartheid. and reach President Johnson. And Young people in Burma went to he would send them protection, and prison rather than submit to military speak to the nation, echoing their call rule. They saw what John Lewis had for America and the world to hear: done. From the streets of Tunis to the “We shall overcome.” What enor- Maidan in Ukraine, this generation of mous faith these men and women young people can draw strength from had. Faith in God, but also faith in this place, where the powerless could America. change the world’s greatest power The Americans who crossed this and push their leaders to expand the bridge, they were not physically boundaries of freedom.

They saw that idea made real right here in Selma, Alabama. They saw that idea manifest itself here in America.

Because of campaigns like this, a Voting Rights Act was passed. Political and economic and social barriers came down. And the change these men and women wrought is visible here today in the presence of African Americans who run boardrooms, who sit on the bench, who serve in elected office from small towns to big cities; from the Congressional Black Caucus all the way to the Oval Office.

Because of what they did, the doors of opportunity swung open not just for black folks, but for every American. Women marched through those doors. Latinos marched through those doors. Asian Americans, gay Americans, Americans with disabilities – they all came through those doors. Their endeavors gave the entire South the chance to rise again, not by reasserting the past, but by transcending the past.

What a glorious thing, Dr. King might say. And what a solemn debt we owe. Which leads us to ask, just how might we repay that debt?

First and foremost, we have to recognize that one day’s commemoration, no matter how special, is not enough. If Selma taught us anything, it’s that our work is never done. The American experiment in self-government gives work and purpose to each generation.

Selma teaches us, as well, that action requires that we shed our cynicism. For when it comes to the pursuit of justice, we can afford neither complacency nor despair.

Just this week, I was asked whether I thought the Department of Justice’s Ferguson report shows that, with respect to race, little has changed in this country. And I understood the question; the report’s narrative was sadly familiar. It evoked the kind of abuse and disregard for citizens that spawned the Civil Rights Movement. But I rejected the notion that nothing’s changed. What happened in Ferguson may not be unique, but it’s no longer endemic. It’s no longer sanctioned by law or by custom. And before the Civil Rights Movement, it most surely was.

We do a disservice to the cause of justice by intimating that bias and discrimination are immutable, that racial division is inherent to America. If you think nothing’s changed in the past 50 years, ask somebody who lived through the Selma or Chicago or Los Angeles of the 1950s. Ask the female CEO who once might have been assigned to the secretarial pool if nothing’s changed. Ask your gay friend if it’s easier to be out and proud in America now than it was thirty years ago. To deny this progress, this hard-won progress – our progress – would be to rob us of our own agency, our own capacity, our responsibility to do what we can to make America better.

Of course, a more common mistake is to suggest that Ferguson is an isolated incident; that racism is banished; that the work that drew men and women to Selma is now complete, and that whatever racial tensions remain are a consequence of those seeking to play the “race card” for their own purposes. We don’t need the Ferguson report to know that’s not true. We just need to open our eyes, and our ears, and our hearts to know that this nation’s racial history still casts its long shadow upon us.

We know the march is not yet over.

We know the race is not yet won. We know that reaching that blessed destination where we are judged, all of us, by the content of our character requires admitting as much, facing up to the truth. “We are capable of bearing a great burden,” James Baldwin once wrote, “once we discover that the burden is reality and arrive where reality is.”

There’s nothing America can’t handle if we actually look squarely at the problem. And this is work for all Americans, not just some. Not just whites. Not just blacks. If we want to honor the courage of those who marched that day, then all of us are called to possess their moral imagination. All of us will need to feel as they did the fierce urgency of now.

All of us need to recognize as they did that change depends on our actions, on our attitudes, the things we teach our children. And if we make such an effort, no matter how hard it may sometimes seem, laws can be passed, and consciences can be stirred, and consensus can be built.

With such an effort, we can make sure our criminal justice system serves all and not just some. Together, we can raise the level of mutual trust that policing is built on – the idea that police officers are members of the community they risk their lives to protect, and citizens in Ferguson and New York and Cleveland, they just want the same thing young people here marched for 50 years ago – the protection of the law. Together, we can address unfair sentencing and overcrowded prisons, and the stunted circumstances that rob too many boys of the chance to become men, and rob the nation of too many men who could be good dads, and good workers, and good neighbors.

With effort, we can roll back poverty and the roadblocks to opportunity.

SEE MARCH ON PAGE 5

The New Tri-State Defender

March 12 - 18, 2015

OPINION

MARCH

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 Americans don’t accept a free ride for anybody, nor do we believe in equality of outcomes.

But we do expect equal opportunity. And if we really mean it, if we’re not just giving lip service to it, but if we really mean it and are willing to sacrifice for it, then, yes, we can make sure every child gets an education suitable to this new century, one that expands imaginations and lifts sights and gives those children the skills they need.

We can make sure every person willing to work has the dignity of a job, and a fair wage, and a real voice, and sturdier rungs on that ladder into the middle class.

And with effort, we can protect the foundation stone of our democracy for which so many marched across this bridge – and that is the right to vote.

Right now, in 2015, 50 years after Selma, there are laws across this country designed to make it harder for people to vote. As we speak, more of such laws are being proposed. Meanwhile, the Voting Rights Act, the culmination of so much blood, so much sweat and tears, the product of so much sacrifice in the face of wanton violence, the Voting Rights Act stands weakened, its future subject to political rancor.

How can that be? The Voting Rights Act was one of the crowning achievements of our democracy, the result of Republican and Democratic efforts. President Reagan signed its renewal when he was in office. President George W. Bush signed its renewal when he was in office. One hundred members of Congress have come here today to honor people who were willing to die for the right to protect it. If we want to honor this day, let that hundred go back to Washington and gather four hundred more, and together, pledge to make it their mission to restore that law this year.

That’s how we honor those on this bridge.

Of course, our democracy is not the task of Congress alone, or the courts alone, or even the President alone. If every new voter-suppression law was struck down today, we would still have, here in America, one of the lowest voting rates

The Obama family join hands as they begin the march with the foot soldiers across the Edmund Pettus Bridge. (White House photo: Lawrence Jackson) among free peoples. Fifty years ago, registering to vote here in Selma and much of the South meant guessing the number of jellybeans in a jar, the number of bubbles on a bar of soap. It meant risking your dignity, and sometimes, your life.

What’s our excuse today for not voting? How do we so casually discard the right for which so many fought? How do we so fully give away our power, our voice, in shaping America’s future? Why are we pointing to somebody else when we could take the time just to go to the polling places? We give away our power.

Fellow marchers, so much has changed in 50 years. We have endured war and we’ve fashioned peace. We’ve seen technological wonders that touch every aspect of our lives.

We take for granted conveniences that our parents could have scarcely imagined. But what has not changed is the imperative of citizenship; that willingness of a 26-year-old deacon, or a Unitarian minister, or a young mother of five to decide they loved this country so much that they’d risk everything to realize its promise.

That’s what it means to love America. That’s what it means to believe in America. That’s what it means when we say

Page 5

The President hugs Rep. John Lewis after his introduction. (White House photo: Pete Souza) America is exceptional.

For we were born of change.

We broke the old aristocracies, declaring ourselves entitled not by bloodline, but endowed by our Creator with certain inalienable rights. We secure our rights and responsibilities through a system of self-government, of and by and for the people.

That’s why we argue and fight with so much passion and conviction – because we know our efforts matter. We know America is what we make of it.

Look at our history. We are

Lewis and Clark and Sacajawea, pioneers who braved the unfamiliar, followed by a stampede of farmers and miners, and entrepreneurs and hucksters.

That’s our spirit. That’s who we are.

We are Sojourner Truth and Fannie Lou Hamer, women who could do as much as any man and then some. And we’re Susan B. Anthony, who shook the system until the law reflected that truth. That is our character.

We’re the immigrants who

stowed away on ships to reach these shores, the huddled masses yearning to breathe free – Holocaust survivors, Soviet defectors, the Lost Boys of Sudan.

We’re the hopeful strivers who cross the Rio Grande because we want our kids to know a better life. That’s how we came to be.

We’re the slaves who built the White House and the economy of the South. We’re the ranch hands and cowboys who opened up the West, and countless laborers who laid rail, and raised skyscrapers, and organized for workers’ rights.

We’re the fresh-faced GIs who fought to liberate a continent. And we’re the Tuskeegee Airmen, and the Navajo code-talkers, and the Japanese Americans who fought for this country even as their own liberty had been denied.

We’re the firefighters who rushed into those buildings on 9/11, the volunteers who signed up to fight in Afghanistan and Iraq. We’re the gay Americans whose blood ran in the streets of San Francisco and New York, just as blood ran down this bridge.

We are storytellers, writers, poets, artists who abhor unfairness, and despise hypocrisy, and give voice to the voiceless, and tell truths that need to be told.

We’re the inventors of gospel and jazz and blues, bluegrass and country, and hip-hop and rock and roll, and our very own sound with all the sweet sorrow and reckless joy of freedom.

We are Jackie Robinson, enduring scorn and spiked cleats and pitches coming straight to his head, and stealing home in the World Series anyway.

We are the people Langston Hughes wrote of who “build our temples for tomorrow, strong as we know how.” We are the people Emerson wrote of, “who for truth and honor’s sake stand fast and suffer long;” who are “never tired, so long as we can see far enough.”

That’s what America is. Not stock photos or airbrushed history, or feeble attempts to define some of us as more American than others. We respect the past, but we don’t pine for the past. We don’t fear the future; we grab for it. America is not some fragile thing. We are large, in the words of Whitman,

containing multitudes. We are boisterous and diverse and full of energy, perpetually young in spirit. That’s why someone like John Lewis at the ripe old age of 25 could lead a mighty march.

And that’s what the young people here today and listening all across the country must take away from this day. You are America. Unconstrained by habit and convention. Unencumbered by what is, because you’re ready to seize what ought to be.

For everywhere in this country, there are first steps to be taken, there’s new ground to cover, there are more bridges to be crossed. And it is you, the young and fearless at heart, the most diverse and educated generation in our history, who the nation is waiting to follow.

Because Selma shows us that America is not the project of any one person. Because the single-most powerful word in our democracy is the word “We.” “We The People.” “We Shall Overcome.” “Yes We Can.” That word is owned by no one. It belongs to everyone. Oh, what a glorious task we are given, to continually try to improve this great nation of ours.

Fifty years from Bloody Sunday, our march is not yet finished, but we’re getting closer.

Two hundred and thirty-nine years after this nation’s founding our union is not yet perfect, but we are getting closer. Our job’s easier because somebody already got us through that first mile. Somebody already got us over that bridge. When it feels the road is too hard, when the torch we’ve been passed feels too heavy, we will remember these early travelers, and draw strength from their example, and hold firmly the words of the prophet Isaiah: “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on (the) wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not be faint.”

We honor those who walked so we could run. We must run so our children soar. And we will not grow weary. For we believe in the power of an awesome God, and we believe in this country’s sacred promise.

May He bless those warriors of justice no longer with us, and bless the United States of America. Thank you, everybody.

March 12 - 18, 2015

Page 6

NATION

Jury: Robin Thicke, Pharrell ripped off Marvin Gaye song in ‘Blurred Lines’ Infringement penalty set a nearly $7.4 million LOS ANGELES (AP) – A jury awarded Marvin Gaye’s children nearly $7.4 million Tuesday after determining singers Robin Thicke and Pharrell Williams copied their father’s music to create “Blurred Lines,” the biggest hit song of 2013.

Gaye’s daughter Nona Gaye wept as the verdict was read and was hugged by her attorney.

“Right now, I feel free,” she said outside court. “Free from ... Pharrell Williams and Robin Thicke’s chains and what they tried to keep on us and the lies that were told.”

The verdict could tarnish the legacy of Williams, a reliable hit-maker who has won Grammy Awards and appears on NBC’s music competition show “The Voice.”

He and Thicke are “undoubtedly disappointed,” said their lead attorney, Howard King.

“They’re unwavering in their absolute conviction that they wrote this song independently,” he said.

Thicke and Williams earned more than $7 million apiece on the song, according to testimony.

King has said a decision in favor of Gaye’s heirs could have a chilling effect on musicians who try to emulate an era or another artist’s sound.

Larry Iser, an intellectual property attorney who has represented numerous musicians in copyright cases, was critical of the outcome.

“Unfortunately, today’s jury verdict has blurred the lines between protectable elements of a musical composition and the unprotectable musical style or groove exemplified by Marvin Gaye,” Iser said. “Although Gaye was the Prince of Soul, he didn’t own a copyright to the genre, and Thicke and Williams’ homage to the feel of Marvin Gaye is not infringing.”

Gaye’s children – Nona, Frankie and Marvin Gaye III – sued the two singers in 2013.

Their lawyer, Richard Busch, branded Williams and Thicke liars who went beyond trying to emulate the sound of Gaye’s late-1970s music and copied the R&B legend’s hit “Got to Give It Up” outright.

The family “fought this fight despite every odd being against

Robin Thicke; Marvin Gaye; Pharrell Williams (Photos via The Root: Isaac Brekken/Getty Images; Wikimedia Commons; Jason Merritt/Getty Images) them,” Busch said after the verdict, which could face years of appeals.

Thicke told jurors he didn’t write “Blurred Lines,” which Williams testified he crafted in about an hour in mid-2012.

Williams testified that Gaye’s music was part of the soundtrack of his youth. But the seven-time Grammy winner said he didn’t use any of it to create “Blurred Lines.”

“Blurred Lines” has sold more than 7.3 million copies in the U.S. alone, according to Nielsen SoundScan figures. It earned a Grammy Awards nomination and netted Williams and Thicke millions of dollars.

The case was a struggle between two of music’s biggest names: Williams has sold more than 100 million records worldwide during his career as a singer-producer, and Gaye performed hits such as “Sexual Healing” and “How Sweet It Is (To be Loved by You)” remain popular.

During closing arguments, Busch accused Thicke and Williams of lying about how the song was created. He told jurors they could award Gaye’s children millions of dollars if they determined the copyright of “Got to Give It Up” was infringed.

King denied there were any substantial similarities between “Blurred Lines” and the sheet music Gaye submitted to obtain copyright protection.

Williams has become a household name – known simply as Pharrell – thanks to

his hit song “Happy” and his work as a judge on the “The Voice.” He wrote the majority of “Blurred Lines” and recorded it in one night with Thicke.

A segment by rapper T.I. was added later.

Williams, 41, also signed a document stating he didn’t use any other artists’ work in the music and would be responsible if a successful copyright claim was raised.

The trial focused on detailed analyses of chords and notes in both “Blurred Lines” and “Got to Give It Up.” Jurors repeatedly heard the upbeat song “Blurred Lines” and saw snippets of its music video, but Gaye’s music was represented during the trial in a less polished form. Jurors did not hear “Got to Give It Up” as Gaye recorded it, but rather a version created based solely on sheet music submitted to gain copyright protection.

That version lacked many of the elements – including Gaye’s voice – that helped make the song a hit in 1977.

Busch called the version used in court a “Frankenstein-like monster” that didn’t accurately represent Gaye’s work.

An expert for the Gaye family said there were eight distinct elements from “Got to Give It Up” that were used in “Blurred Lines,” but an expert for Williams and Thicke denied those similarities existed.

Gaye died in April 1984, leaving his children the copyrights to his music.

The New Tri-State Defender

Frat member: Racist chant was ‘horrible mistake’ Video shows ‘house mom’ of now-defunct chapter chanting the n-word DALLAS (AP) – A former University of Oklahoma fraternity member who was shown in a video chanting a racial slur has issued an apology, as have the parents of a second student.

The apologies came after OU President David Boren expelled the two students who appeared to be leading the chant. He did not release their names. Boren said others involved would face discipline.

The chant referenced lynching and indicated black students would never be admitted to OU’s chapter of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. A fraternity is a social organization of male college students.

In a statement Tuesday, former OU student Parker Rice called the incident “a horrible mistake” and “a devastating lesson” for which he is “seeking guidance on how I can learn from this and make sure it never happens again.”

“I am deeply sorry for what I did Saturday night,” Rice said in a statement emailed to The Associated Press by his father. “It was wrong and reckless.”

Meanwhile, the parents of another student seen in

the video, Levi Pettit, released a statement saying, “he made a horrible mistake, and will live with the conBeauton sequences Gilbow forever.”

R i c e said in his statement that he withdrew from the university M o n d a y.

The statement from P e t t i t ’s parents Parker did not Rice address his status with the university.

Rice said threatening calls to his family have prompted them to leave their Texas home. He said Saturday’s incident was “likely was fueled by alcohol,” but “that’s not an excuse.”

“Yes, the song was taught to us, but that too doesn’t

work as an explanation. It’s more important to acknowledge what I did and what I didn’t do. I didn’t say ‘no,’” his statement said.

Pettit’s parents, Brody and Susan Pettit, said in a statement posted online that their son “is a good boy, but what we saw in those videos is disgusting.” The Pettits apologized “to the entire African-American community (and) University of Oklahoma student body and administration.”

Also Tuesday, Beauton Gilbow, the fraternity’s “house mom,” issued a statement that addressed a video from 2013 showing her repeating a racial slur as music plays in the background.

Gilbow said she was singing along to a song. She said she was “heartbroken” by the portrayal that she was racist but understood how the video must appear in the context of the week’s events.

A “house mom” is a housing director who might oversee staff and finances at a sorority or fraternity house.

(To see the “house mom” video: https://vine.co/v/ bg5KM7Fx7zJ)

March 12 - 18, 2015

The New Tri-State Defender

Page 7

BUSINESS

ON OUR WAY TO WEALTHY

MONEY MATTERS

Maximizing your insurance benefits Understanding the threat of estate taxes on your life insurance proceeds is the first step in protecting these funds from unnecessary taxation. The next steps are determining the appropriate ownership of your policy and selecting a proper beneficiary. Although there are other alternatives, a life insurance trust can help avoid potential threats to the policy’s proceeds.

What threats exist besides estate taxes?

Justin Timberlake’s “Sauza 901.” (Courtesy photo)

Through celebrity endorsement of liquor No one sets trends like celebrities. From fashion to music and now liquor, celebrities have an undeniable influence on what is popular and consumed. Years ago, the music business was the go-to industry to become rich and powerful. Now, those that used to sell music for a living have ventured into the liquor business. As record sells declined, celebrities diversified their interests and made a beeline for that which is consumed regardless of the economy, wine and liquors.

Sauza 901 Tequila The jump in industries is a natural one because the business model is similar to the entertainment industry. Marketing and promotion rule the day.

Our very own Justin Timberlake made it his business to place his affiliated product on the shelves Carlee of liquor McCullough, s t o r e s Esq. around the country with his “Sauza 901” Tequila.

With close to 40 million Twitter followers, reaching out and selling to his fan base was pure common sense. True fans are sure to follow and support Justin Timberlake in most things that he does. Could having a taste of “901 Tequila” create the feeling of sharing in Justin’s world? Perhaps this explains the popularity of celebrities who endorse and sell liquor.

Ciroc Vodka & DeLeon Tequila Sean “Diddy” Combs has made his mark in music and fashion. Now he is becoming a mogul in liquor, not with just one, but with two different brands. Through a joint venture with Diageo, Ciroc has been placed on the map. It is hard to even remember if there was a Ciroc without the promotion of Diddy. Now Ciroc is in almost every urban bar around. According to Fortune Magazine, the partnership with Sean Combs resulted in an increase in sales from 50,000 cases to 2 million cases to date. The partnership has been so successful that now they have joined forces to promote DeLeon Tequila. Without a doubt, I anticipate much success on this new venture.

Casamigos Tequila As one of the most successful actors around, George Clooney enters the liquor fray to prove that he is more than just a pretty face. Rande Gerber, husband of model Cindy Crawford, is a co-owner with George in the Casamigos Tequila venture. Started as a project that made tequila solely for the private properties in Cabo San Lucas, the team has now expanded to promote the liquor to a wider audience. An Academy Award winning actor and a supermodel spokesperson can only help in the promotion of tequila.

Crystal Head Vodka Ever seen the clear skull bottle in the liquor store or bar? Well, famed actor Dan Aykroyd promotes this brand.

Produced in Canada, like Aykroyd, Crystal Head is

award-winning. Crystal Head just came into the market in 2008 and has already made headway. No pun intended.

Miravel Rose Wine You do not get any bigger than superstars Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt. But the superstars are looking to diversify.

With their money, they can pay $60 million for a vineyard to produce wine. Their wine is called Miravel Rose and was ranked 84th on the Wine Spectator’s List in 2013. Just like they excel on the big screen, they are excelling in the wine business.

Haig Club Scotch As far as men are concerned, it is hard to be any prettier than soccer icon David Beckham. But his testosterone comes through with his 2014 endorsement of single grain Scotch whisky: Haig Club.

Encouraged by the successful partnership with Diddy, Diageo teamed up with David to sell a manly drink of whisky.

Although the verdict is still out, Diageo has the successful model and will surely apply it with the looks of David Beckham holding Haig Club Scotch

whisky.

Skinnygirl Lines Not to be outdone by the men, Bethenny Frankel of Real Housewives of New York originally entered the marketplace with Skinnygirl low calorie Margarita. With the skyrocketing success of the margarita, the Skinnygirl brand quickly launched into wines, vodkas and sangrias.

As one of the most successful Housewives, others have tried to follow in her footsteps but failed to reach her level of success.

Much can be learned from the successful launch of a liquor brand even if a celebrity endorses it. Marketing and promotion are the beginning and the end of selling a product or a service. While most businesses may not have the builtin base that accompanies a celebrity endorsement, the formula is still the same – marketing and promotion, followed by more marketing and promotion.

(Contact Carlee M. McCullough, Esq. at 901-7950050; email – jstce4all@aol. com.)

Several factors may come into play that could undermine the financial security provided by the proceeds of your life insurance policy. Beyond estate taxes, there is the potential for probate, gift taxes, financial mismanagement, and misuse. Proper planning is necessary to help avoid these threats.

Ownership options* Other than owning the insurance yourself, there are three practical options for the ownership of your life insurance.

Your spouse. If you choose your spouse to be the owner and beneficiary of a policy on your life insurance, the proceeds of the policy will be subject to estate taxes and perhaps probate administration when he or she eventually dies. In addition, he or she will be responsible for investing the proceeds of your policy. Make sure your spouse is prepared and has the willingness to handle these additional responsibilities.

A child. Naming a child as owner and beneficiary can lead to problems if the child lacks the experience for such a designation. You must be able to rely on him or her to maintain the policy and avoid letting the policy lapse. In addition, because your child will be the legal owner of the policy proceeds, you must be sure that he or she will be willing to supply necessary funds to the estate to settle taxes, fees, and other expenses.

An irrevocable life insurance trust. An irrevocable life insurance trust can help avoid threats to your policy’s proceeds. Because the designated trustee must manage the trust for your benefit, it helps ensure the availability of liquid funds when they are most needed. And because the trust is irrevocable and is the owner and beneficiary of your policy, the proceeds escape estate taxes in most cases.

The trust arrangement allows the proceeds to avoid probate administration and can sanction the professional management of the pro-

ceeds to help ensure the livelihood of your survivors. The use of a life insurance trust can provide an opportunity for families to utilize the benefits of their life insurance.** Keep in mind that the cost and availability of life insurance depend on factors such as age, Charles Sims health, and the type and amount of insurance Jr., CMFC, purchased. Before imLUTCF plementing this strategy, it would be prudent to make sure that you are insurable. As with most financial decisions, there are expenses associated with the purchase of life insurance. Policies commonly have contract limitations, fees, and charges, which can include mortality and expense charges.

Trusts incur upfront costs and ongoing administrative fees. The use of trusts involves a complex web of tax rules and regulations.

You should seek the counsel of an experienced estate planning professional before implementing such a strategy. * A taxable gift from the owner to the beneficiary may result when the owner, the beneficiary, and the insured are all different parties. To reduce the threat of gift taxes, the owner of the policy should be the beneficiary of the policy. **An ILIT is irrevocable and cannot be changed once it has been created. An insured individual contemplating the use of an ILIT must be willing to relinquish control of the assets transferred to the trust and must recognize the limitations that arise as a result thereof.

The insured may not retain the right to revoke, alter, amend, or terminate the Trust, meaning that the insured may not retain the power to change the trust beneficiaries and their interests. Likewise, the insured cannot require that assets contributed to the trust be used to pay premiums or otherwise maintain life insurance owned by the trust. Finally, the insured may not retain any economic benefit in the life insurance policy, for example, the insured will not be able to cash in or borrow against the cash surrender value of any life insurance policy after it is transferred to the Trust.

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

Page 8

March 12 - 18, 2015

March 12 - 18, 2015

The New Tri-State Defender

Elaine Lee Turner of Heritage Tours and the Memphis contingent

As far as one’s eyes could see, there was a throng – perhaps as many as 70,000.

A cadre of young men tapped a rhythmic beat on the djembe drums throughout the day.

Prior to crossing the Edmund Pettus Bridge, these foot soldiers offered up prayer.

From across the country, myriad groups descended on Selma for the commemoration.

Page 9

Selma’s foot soldiers retrace their steps “I was arrested that day. Me and the police officer had a physical disagreement.” – Annie Pearl Avery

by Wiley Henry

S

whenry@tsdmemphis.com

elma, Ala. was a bastion of deep-seated racism as the eyes of the world watched state troopers unleash a violent fury on voting-rights marchers on March 7th, 1965. Annie Pearl Avery and Warren Harrison were there, fighting on two different fronts.

The 50th anniversary of “Bloody Sunday” drew Avery and Harris back to Selma, placing them among tens of thousands committed to commemorating that fateful day. Their foot-soldier stories conjure images of a sordid era and yield lessons for a more promising future.

Fighting back…

Annie Pearl Avery was shy of 21 and sitting in jail in 1965 when Alabama state troopers clubbed, trampled and tear-gassed 600 civil rights demonstrators attempting to march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Ala., to the state capitol in Montgomery 54 miles away.

A mangled mess of bloody human wreckage on U.S. Route 80 signaled just how tough the road would be en route to securing voting rights. Avery had incurred the wrath of the state troopers as well and even scrapped with one of them, she said.

“I was arrested that day. Me and the police officer had a physical disagreement,” said Avery, who sat along the same route telling her story and selling T-shirts and other paraphernalia to visitors who journeyed to Selma to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Bloody Sunday.

Some details are sketchy, said Avery, recalling the tussle that got her arrested and the minor wounds she sustained while fighting back.

“I was a moving target,” she said. “You can’t seriously hurt a moving target.”

After Avery was carted off to jail, hell was unleashed on the bridge. Battered bodies lay helpless and strewn on the pavement Annie Pearl Avery talks about her experience in Selma 1965 and the civil rights movement. while others sprinted to avoid ery, who was the the rage. project director One of those battered bodies was identified as 54-year-old Amelia Platts for the Student Nonviolent CoBoynton Robinson, an activist who ordinating Comhelped to organize the local Selma mittee (SNCC) in Voting Rights Movement. Boynton Hale County, Ala. lay unconscious after the melee while After spendthe world watched in horror. ing nearly hours Fifty years later, the world’s eyes locked up in Selwere back on Boynton, 104, “the ma, Avery moved original foot soldier.” She returned to on to challenge Selma in a wheelchair to commemothe status quo in rate that moment in history with other other cities. foot soldiers, the sea of marchers and “I can’t rePresident Barack Obama on Saturday member the exact (March 7th). number of times I got arrested,” she As Boynton and others were being said. “But I remember I was arrested savagely beaten on that frightful day in 1965, Avery was unaware that lives in Tennessee, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia and were hanging in the balance.

Gaston, Ala.” “I didn’t know they were beating In Danville, Va., for example, people until I got out of jail,” said Av-

consequences.”

Activism by bus…

Warren Harrison’s mind is sharp, but his body is frail.

That didn’t stop the 92-year-old from rolling his scooter through the thick crowd with his oxygen tank on the back and over-the-ear nasal cannulas attached to his nose.

Warren Harrison, 92, provided transportation to On the side demonstrators throughout the South. of Harrison’s scooter was Avery spent 90 a sign that read: “It’s A Privilege days in jail for PLEASE Vote.” That message was contempt of court. She fasted underscored in Selma in 1965 and other parts of the segregated South the entire time, where African Americans were denied she said. the right to vote.

Although The carnage of Bloody Sunday unAvery forged folded before Harrison on a television ahead during screen. The next day he was in Selma the civil rights trying to make a difference. movement, she “I saw that the marchers were badly looked back over beaten and needed blood. So I donatthat part of her ed my blood,” said Harrison, who’d life during the left Detroit to assist the injured demcommemorative onstrators. anniversary and When Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. acknowledged that she was afraid. called for a third march, Harrison “I was always scared,” she said. was still in Selma and answered the “But the thing about fear is once you call. He marched with hundreds to the make the decision to do something, fear dissipates. You just have to make state house in Montgomery to assert his right to vote, braving the peril of up your mind that you will accept the

trying to secure it.

Fifty years later, Harrison is still concerned about civil rights and human rights. The commemoration, he said, meant he needed to be in Selma.

On Saturday (March 7th), Harrison got a chance to shake President Obama’s hand and got two hugs from first lady Michelle Obama. The next day, his great niece, Leslie Clapp, spotted Amelia Platts Boynton Robinson on the bridge in the crowd.

“I want to say hello to her,” Harrison told his great niece.

Clapp made it happen.

“He jumped off the scooter to meet her,” she said. “They held hands for a moment in the middle of the bridge.”

Born in Selma, Harrison moved to Detroit at the age of 10 to live with an older brother – a decision made necessary after he got into a disagreement with a white man after an encounter with the man’s son. He was more than willing to tell that story and others, but preferred talking about the civil rights movement instead.

A coast-to-coast bus driver, Harrison bused civil rights demonstrators all over the country. He drove them to the March on Washington, the Albany Movement in Albany, Ga., Resurrection City in Washington, D.C., back and forth to Selma, and other places when transportation was needed.

He even shuttered the entourage of five U.S. presidents. He stopped driving a decade ago and now lives in Southfield, Mich., where he is an active member of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference.

“This trip to Selma,” said Harrison, “has added years to my life.”

The march was an opportunity to connect concerns past and present.

Selma and the promise of youth

It’s been one of the best (feelings) seeing people come together to celebrate – not just one person’s rights, but the rights of people as a whole.”

– Damou Traore

by Wiley Henry

D

whenry@tsdmemphis.com

rawn by an acknowledged “need” to commemorate the 50th anniversary of “Bloody Sunday,” the multitude in Selma, Ala. amply reflected the promise of youth.

When Tamara Williams first heard that plans were being developed to call attention to the beatings of 600 civil rights demonstrators at the Edmund Pettus Bridge on March 7th, 1965, the 13-year-old Soulsville Charter School student quickly concluded she knew that she needed to be in Selma.

“I expected to go on this trip. I wanted to see for myself and didn’t want nobody to tell me,” said Williams, who made her way to the Dallas County town with a busload from Memphis.

“I love history,” the self-proclaimed history buff said. “ I love talking about history. And I love writing about it.”

College students Damou Traore and Ashanti Carr, both juniors at The LeMoyne Owen College, sauntered amid the massive crowd,

Temeshia Washington, a resident of Columbus, Ga., photographed her experience in Selma. She brought along her six children to witness history unfold. observing the frenzy. Each was impacted by the events in Selma in

personal ways.

Traore’s view of Selma’s 1965

voting rights campaign was juxtaposed against the military domination of Guinea Conakry in West Africa, where he was born.

“The images in Selma leave you with a bitter taste,” said Traore, 21, whose father forbade him to attend a political rally that ended with people getting shot by the military.

“I was 14, and that’s when I got interested in politics,” he said.

Born in San Diego, Calif., Carr, 22, had seen replays of the hardto-watch TV images of the atrocity unleashed in Selma. She’d also watched Alex Haley’s “Roots” and

Photos: Wiley Henry

preserved those searing memories as well.

“My mom wanted us to be proud of our roots,” said Carr. “And she wanted us to know where we came from.”

Both Traore and Carr assessed the commemorative anniversary as a learning experience that they could recall at a moment’s notice.

“To watch people’s reactions, people who were there, it feels wonderful,” said Carr, an English major planning to enlist in the Navy. “It’s the same feeling you get when you visit the National Civil Rights Museum.”

“It was my first time attending a civil rights movement,” said Traore, studying political science at LeMoyne. “It’s been one of the best (feelings) seeing people come together to celebrate – not just one person’s rights, but the rights of people as a whole.”

Traore is looking forward to the future when he can work with the American government and “contribute as much as possible as a politician.”

Determined to “keep up with everything” in the way of life-chang-

ing events, Carr is still holding on to the newspaper coverage of President Obama’s inauguration.

Alice Knight, a great-grandmother, made the trip to Selma from Pensacola, Fla., with her son and grandchildren, including eight-yearold LaBron Baldwin.

“We have made some progress,” said Knight, “but we still have a long ways to go.”

Grandson LaBron said he was happy just to be in Selma to witness history unfold. He knew what the demonstrators were trying to accomplish in 1965 and tried to sum it up.

“People should have the right to do what they want,” he said.

With her 6-month-old baby cradled in a baby sling, Temeshia Washington and her husband, Chris, made their way through the dense crowd with their other five young children to witness the historic event. With her Nikon, she preserved some special moments.

The 50th anniversary of Bloody Sunday is part of the ongoing struggle, said Washington, a resident of Columbus, Ga. “It’s history.”

Amelia Platts Boynton Robinson, 104, helped to organize the local Selma Voting Rights Movement in Selma.

A wave of united brothers committed to saluting the 1965 Selma marchers.

March 12 - 18, 2015

Page 10

The New Tri-State Defender

RELIGION

Weekend of fellowship takes aim at black-white Christians’ division Pastor Robert J. Matthews and New Hope Baptist Church of Memphis are gearing up to welcome New City Fellowship Church of St. Louis for collaborative fellowship and worship during the weekend, Friday (March 13th) through Sunday.

New City Fellowship, a predominately white Presbyterian church, is bringing a group of families to visit Memphis, with families from New Hope Baptist – a predominately black church, hosting the visiting

New Hope Baptist to host New City Fellowship of St. Louis families in their homes.

While in Memphis, the New City Fellowship families will visit the National Civil Rights Museum and Stax Museum of Soul Music.

Michael L. Rev. Robert J. Yarbrough, a naMatthews tive Memphian

Michael L. Yarbrough

now residing in St. Louis, is leading the New City Fellowship Church’s visit to New Hope, which is located at 2356 Elvis Presley Blvd.

The director of Diaconal Ministries at New City Fellowship, Yarbrough’s parents,

Terry and Linda Yarbrough, are New Hope members.

Last month, Yarbrough and an elder of New City Fellowship, began teaching a class at the church entitled “Jesus in Black-and-White.” The text was “Divided by Faith: Evangelical Religion and the Problem of Race in America,” by Michael Emerson and Christian Smith. The concept provided a historical context to the racial reconciliation ministries underway at New City Fellowship, as well as providing discussion to

understand demonstrations and associated reactions after the police shooting of Michael Brown Jr. in Ferguson, Mo. The backdrop for the weekend, organizers said, is that black and white Christians across America are rarely exposed to each other in significant ways through church-driven activities.

Before departing on Sunday, the families will come together at New Hope for morning worship service, starting at 9:30 a.m.

Pastors, donors rip Baptist school over gay bishop’s invite

by Travis Loller Associated Press

NASHVILLE – The president of the historically black American Baptist College says some individuals are considering removing financial support after pastors criticized the school’s inclusion of a lesbian bishop in a lec- Bishop Yvette ture series.

Flunder A group of Baptist pastors calls the invitation to Bishop Yvette Flunder of Oakland, Calif., to be a speaker and worship leader next week “irresponsible, scandalous, non-biblical, and certainly displeasing to God.” The pastors ask school Forrest E. President Forrest Harris E. Harris in a news release to disinvite Flunder, who is affiliated with the United Church of Christ and is legally married to another woman, her partner of 30 years.

The pastors also ask National Baptist Convention, USA, President Jerry Young to declare where he stands on the issue.

The pastors group and the college in Nashville are affiliated with the historically black National Baptist Convention.

American Baptist College is known for its role in the civil rights movement. Students have included famous civil rights leaders such as John Lewis, the Georgia congressman who helped organize lunch counter sit-ins as a young man and was among the protesters beaten at Selma, Ala., 50 years ago this month.

In a phone interview, Harris noted the college’s long commitment to social justice. “We will not tolerate intolerance,” he said.

Harris said the school’s mission is to “expose students to worldviews, philosophies and cultures that enables them to become critical moral thinkers and world citizens.” He said he hopes donors will continue to support the school.

Many of the nation’s most influential African-American church leaders are coming together to tackle climate change. (Photo: greenforall.org)

‘Green The Church’ campaign reaches for 1,000 African-American churches OAKLAND – Some of the most influential African-American church leaders in the country are joining forces with the U.S. Green Building Council and Green For All to launch Green The Church, an effort to reach 1,000 African-American churches and address the disproportionate impacts of climate change and pollution on communities of color.

At a telephone press conference on Thursday (March 12th), pastors from across the country were set to join Green For All Founder Van Jones and U.S. Green Building Council Senior Vice President of Community Advancement Kimberly Lewis to talk about why climate change and sustainability are a priority for African-American congregations.

On board to speak were the Rev. Otis Moss, senior pastor at Trinity United Church of Christ, the Chicago church attended by President

Obama; the Rev. Amos Brown, who sits on the boards of both the NAACP and the National Council of Churches; Ambrose Carroll, who founded Green The Church; and Bishop J.W. Macklin, who is second assistant presiding bishop at the largest Pentecostal denomination in the country. Together, the leaders represent millions of African-American congregants and voters.

It is the first time nationally recognized African-American church leaders have come together across denominations to talk about the threat that climate change poses to their communities.

The Green The Church initiative aims to bring the benefits of sustainability directly to African-American communities by partnering with the U.S. Green Building Council on clean energy and energy savings. It will also tap into the power of the African-American church as a moral leader and a force for social change – one with

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. – Hebrews 11:1 (KJV)

the potential to bring millions of new people into the climate movement.

The initiative, said organizers, demonstrates what polls already show: that people of color are concerned about climate change and ready to act. It also comes at a time when polluters are increasingly trying to turn minority leaders against clean energy.

“When it comes to climate change and pollution, people of color are hit first and worst,” said Carroll.

“Our communities also stand to gain enormously from investments in solutions like clean energy. The Black church is a formidable force.

It could help determine whether we win or lose on climate.”

(For more information, visit: http://greenforall.org/green-the-church/.)

ENTERTAINMENT Kirk Whalum

The New Tri-State Defender, March 12 - 18, 2015, Page 11

WHAT’S HAPPENING MYRON?

The all-new ‘What’s Happening Myron Radio Show’ Have you ever wanted to share some really good news, but you had to sit on it for a couple of weeks before you let the cat out of the bag? That’s been me!

Well, now I can share. LaMyron dies and gentleMays men, get ready for the all-new What’s Happening Myron Radio Show! The grand debut is Sunday (March 15th) from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m, on AM990 KWAM. So what can you expect from the show? I’m glad you asked! My co-host Rhonnie Brewer and I are gonna bring you great conversation, great music, great information and lots of good news!

If you’re always on the lookout for what to do on the weekends, you’ll be able to fill your calendar with plenty of concerts, club nights and other events. If we’re not talking about it, it’s probably not happening.

Find out who’s who and who’s doing what in Memphis. Hear from the movers, shakers and the people who make Memphis as great as it is.

That includes local writers, authors, musicians, filmmakers, performers and game changers! Did I forget anyone?

Oh, and we can’t forget the “Hey Myron” relationship letters from my column in Southern Soul Magazine. That’s gonna be a lot of fun.

You’ll have the chance to call in to the show and be a part of the discussion.

Yes, Memphis has its challenges. However, Memphis belongs to US! It’s “our” city and “our” house.

Now it’s “our” time. I step into this new venture fully aware that Memphis has a lot of great things to offer and I’m eager to help us do a more complete job of sharing those things with each other and the world as well.

Let’s face it. Too many of us have forgotten where we came from.

We’ve forgotten the about the impact that Memphis has made on music. We’ve forgotten the impact that Memphis has made on entertainment. We have forgotten the impact that “our” house has made on the world. Now it’s time to remind ourselves and the world who we are.

We are Memphis!

So get ready for two hours of entertainment, information, enlightenment and all things Memphis. Join me on Sunday for the first show!

My special guest will be comedian Caszell Williams and 15-year-old R&B sensation Serenity, both from right here in Memphis.

‘The Gospel According To Jazz Chapter IV’ In a career spanning decades, Grammy-winning saxophonist Kirk Whalum has spread his indelible inspiring musical “message” via the acclaimed “Gospel According To Jazz, Chapters I – III” series. On March 24th, Whalum will release the “Gospel According to Jazz, Chapter IV.” The highly-anticipated project includes a twodisc, 19-song CD and a feature-length DVD that reflects the growth of the Gospel According to Jazz series into a “docu-musical.”

“The Gospel According To Jazz, Chapter CD release is IV” docu-musical is a March 24th combination of concert film and documentary. It captures Whalum and an all-star ensemble in a high-level musical performance.

Whalum uses this latest work to address some of today’s most pressing social tensions – such as gun violence, healthcare and homelessness – with a message of peace, love and redemption. The result is a collection of songs inspired by family, friends, influencers and his heroes: Nelson Mandela, President Barack Obama, John Coltrane, Paul McCartney, Waymon Tisdale, George Duke and Curtis Mayfield.

Among the concert highlights are “Let ’em In,” Paul McCartney’s song of inclusion that hints at immigration, and “Just As I Am,” another nod to tolerance. The Curtis Mayfield classic “Keep on Pushin’” preaches hope and empowerment and “My Hero” is a tribute to President Barack Obama.

Whalum adds a touching tribute to the great George Duke, who played on all three previous versions of “The Gospel According To Jazz” and passed away planning to per-

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

form on Chapter IV. “Un Amor Supremo” is a Spanish arrangement and tribute to John Coltrane’s “A Love Supreme,” with “Madiba” a tribute to Nelson Mandela.

A promotion tour that kicks of in New York

City on March 14th will stop in Memphis on March 29-31.

(Album stream, Disc 1: http://smarturl.it/ kwgatj4CD1; Disc 2: http://smarturl.it/kwgatj4CD2.)

An evening with Ledisi, Raheem Devaughn & Leela James Concert Review: Three top-notch performers show out as promoter Fred Jones delivers again.

by Warren Roseborough

I

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Emissaries of Memphis Music Speaking of Memphis and its music influence, the Memphis Music Commission presents the Annual Emissaries of Memphis Music event Thursday March 12th at the Kroc Center. The Emissaries of Memphis Music event spotlights our local creative heroines and their career accomplishments. These individuals not only include musicians, singers and songwriters but others who have played an important part in introducing Memphis music to the world such as medical, legal and other support personnel as well. The proceeds from this event benefit the Memphis Musicians Healthcare fund which provides free access to medical care for Memphis musicians.

This year’s honorees include Tracy Bethea Program Director for 95.7 WHAL, Carol Rakestraw of the Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music, singer and songwriter Sandy Carroll, Dr. Nance Chase, gospel singer Michelle Prather,Yvonne and Lorraine Mitchell of Royal Studio and Pat Mitchell Worley, host of the Beale Street Blues Caravan radio show. General admission tickets are on sale now for $50. You may get more information at www.memphismusic.org.

Kirk Whalum’s “The Gospel According To Jazz, Chapter IV” docu-musical is a combination of concert film and documentary that captures Whalum and an all-star ensemble in a high-level musical performance. (Courtesy photo)

Raheem Devaughn showed he was worthy of being king for the night, delivering a soul-satisfying performance at the Orpheum on Saturday night.

had the pleasure of checking out the Ledisi, Raheem Devaughn and Leela James concert at the Orpheum Theatre on Saturday. Fred Jones, founder of the Southern Heritage Classic, promoted the concert and – as always – delivered a slam dunk.

The show opened with Leela James, who is riding the wave of her fifth studio album, “Fall For You.” Nominated for a Soul Train award, James showed her true talent and vocal range during a flawless performance.

Featured on the second season of TV One’s “R&B Divas LA,” James kicked off an evening of audience engagement talking and toying with members of the crowd during her performance.

Raheem Devaughn, who is definitely one of my favorite recording artists, came out with a crown on his head, and then showed he was worthy of being king for the night. Many of Devaughn’s songs reflect an appreciation and respect for women and he delivered a strong performance of them. He told the crowd of his LoveLife Foundation, which he uses to address several causes, including domestic violence. Audience members were encouraged to make a donation and take a photo with him.

Ledisi did what stars with one stage name do – she brought it. Rolling out hit after hit, that incredible voice was in full effect. The crowd seemed to particularly love the humor she showed while sharing stories associated with her songs.

My grade is A-plus for the artists and the promoter.

(Photos: Warren Roseborough)

Ledisi rolled out hit after hit while performing at the Orpheum Theatre on Saturday.

Promoter Fred Jones backstage with Leela James during a crowd-pleasing concert at the Orpheum Theatre on Saturday.

Raheem Devaughn directs the crowd to join him in recording the moment and sharing it via social media during his performance at the Orpheum Theatre on Saturday.

Page 12

March 12 - 18, 2015

ENTERTAINMENT

The New Tri-State Defender

BOOK REVIEW

The Presidency in Black and White’

by Kam Williams

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

“(This book) gives readers a compelling behind-the-scenes look at race relations from the epicenter of American power and policy making—the White House—April Ryan’s beat since 1997. Ryan tells us what it was like for a pioneering African American female reporter to become a respected member of the White House Press Corps, one of the greatest old boy networks in the nation’s capital… With humor, grace, and determination, Ryan shares the highs and lows of a sometimes lonely battle, to keep questions of race and the lives of her inner-city listeners on the national stage.”

– Excerpted from the Bookjacket

Common joins Liam Neeson and other stars – Ed Harris, Joel Kinnaman, Genesis Rodriguez, Boyd Holbrook, Vincent D’Onofrio, Holt McCallany, Bruce McGill, and Beau Knapp – in the crime thriller “Run All Night.” (Courtesy photo)

by Kam Williams

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

For movies opening March 13, 2015 BIG BUDGET FILMS “Cinderella” (PG for mature themes) Lily James stars as the title character in this live-action version of the classic fairytale about an abused orphan who, with the help of her fairy godmother (Helena Bonham Carter), escapes the clutches of her wicked stepmother (Cate Blanchett) and wins the heart of handsome Prince Charming (Richard Madden). With Stellan Skarsgard, Derek Jacobi and Hayley Atwell.

“Run All Night” (R for profanity, sexual references, graphic violence and drug use) Crime thriller about a Brooklyn hit man (Liam Neeson) who ends up on the run from corrupt cops and contract killers when his son (Joel Kinnaman) is marked for death by a brutal mob boss (Ed Harris). Cast includes Common, Vincent D’Onofrio and Genesis Rodriguez.

INDEPENDENT & FOREIGN FILMS “3 Hearts” (PG-13 for sexuality, brief nudity, mature themes and pervasive smoking) Romantic romp revolving around an incestuous love triangle that arises when sparks fly between a newlywed tax inspector (Benoit Poelvoorde) and his bride’s (Chiara Mastroianni) sister (Charlotte Gainsbourg). With Catherine Deneuve, Andre Marcon and Patrick Mille. (In French and Chinese with subtitles) “Champs” (Unrated) Boxing biopic revisiting the exploits in and out of the ring of a trio of world champions: Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield and Bernard Hopkins. Featuring commentary by 50 Cent, Denzel Washington, Mary J. Blige, Spike Lee, Mark Wahlberg and Ron Howard.

“The Cobbler” (PG-13 for violence, profanity and partial nudity) Adam Sandler handles the title role in this escapist fantasy, set in NYC, as a shoe repairman who manages, metaphorically, to step into the lives of his customers. With Dustin Hoffman, Steve Buscemi, Ellen Barkin, Method Man and Melonie Diaz.

(In English and Yiddish with subtitles) “Cymbeline” (R for violence) Ed Harris portrays the title character in this adaptation of the Shakespeare classic reimagined as a a latter-day showdown between crooked cops and a gang of outlaw bikers. Ensemble includes Ethan Hawke, Dakota Johnson, John Leguizamo, Milla Jovovich, Delroy Lindo and Bill Pullman.

“Earth’s Golden Playground” (Unrated) Gold Rush documentary highlighting the present-day resurgence of mining among prospectors searching for the mother lode up in the Yukon.

“Home Sweet Hell” (R for violence, profanity, sexuality and drug use) Dark comedy about a vengeful suburban housewife (Katherine Heigl) who hires a couple of thugs (Kevin McKidd and A.J. Buckley) to knock off her husband’s (Patrick Wilson) pregnant mistress (Jordana Bewster) in order to preserve her marriage. With Jim Belushi, Bryce Johnson and Alyshia Ochse.

“It Follows” (R for sexuality, profanity, graphic nudity and disturbing violence) Horror thriller about a 19 year-old (Maika Moore) who finds herself plagued by an evil curse following a one-night stand with a demonic date (Jake Weary) harboring a hidden agenda. With Keir Gilchrist, Daniel Zovatto and Olivia Luccardi and Lili Sepe.

“Like Sunday, Like Rain” (R for profanity) Coming-of-age drama revolving around a

melancholy, 12 year-old musical prodigy (Julian Shatkin), neglected by his parents, who unexpectedly forges a friendship with a new nanny (Leighton Meester) offering the attention he needs. Supporting cast includes Debra Messing, Billie Joe Armstrong and Olivia Luccardi.

“Of Horses and Men” (Unrated) Romantic dramedy, set in Iceland, about a woman (Charlotte Boving) in love with a man (Ingvar Eggert Sigurosson) with a fondness for a mare that’s almost illegal. Featuring Steinn Armann Magnusson, Helgi Bjornsson and Kristbjorg Kjeld. (In Icelandic, Swedish, English, Spanish and Russian with subtitles) “Seymour: An Introduction” (PG for mature themes) Ethan Hawke directed this prestige biopic about Seymour Bernstein, a promising child prodigy-turned-piano teacher who altruistically devoted his life to helping his protégés realize their potential.

“Treading Water” (Unrated) Romantic dramedy about a friendless, smelly boy (Douglas Smith) being raised in a museum whose fortunes change when the cute girl (Zoe Kravitz) he’s admired from afar finally takes a liking to him. With Carrie-ann Moss, Don McKellar, Kim Ly and Ariadna Gil. “Walter” (Unrated) Andrew J. West stars as the title character in this quirky character study as a judgmental, megaplex ticket taker who thinks he’s the Son of God. With William H. Macy, Neve Campbell, Virginia Madsen, Brian White and Jim Gaffigan.

“The Wrecking Crew” (PG for mature themes, mild epithets and smoking) Reverential documentary recounting the considerable accomplishments of The Wrecking Crew, the legendary backup band which played on recording sessions with everyone from Frank Sinatra to Bing Crosby to The Beach Boys.

When a reporter asks Barack Obama a pointed question about race during a Presidential press conference, odds are that it’s coming from April Ryan in her capacity as the White House correspondent for the American Urban Radio Networks. For the past 18 years, this gifted black woman from Baltimore has been among the handful of seasoned journalists afforded rare access to the hallowed halls of the nation’s seat of power.

In this intimate memoir, April dedicates a chapter to each of the three Presidents she’s covered, Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama, as well as several discussing the issue of race. In one entitled, “The Presidential Race Report Cards,” she gives Clinton and Obama a grade of B+ on race, while Bush only earned a C-overall, including an F for his handling of Hurricane Katrina and a D for his failure to generate jobs.

Specifically for this opus, April asked Obama to “share something you have not discussed publicly, a moment or moments you were discriminated against because of your color.” He did respond, but I suppose it would be unfair to the author for me to spoil the book by revealing his interesting response in this review.

Besides reflecting upon her time assigned to the White House beat, April also devotes space to the building’s history. For instance, she points out that, “like the Capitol” it “was built with slave labor.” Furthermore, “many presidents brought slaves to live with them as cooks, housekeepers, personal maids, and servants.” In fact, the second baby ever born in the White House was a slave belonging to Thomas Jefferson.

How ironic is that, given how the White House has come to be such an iconic symbol for freedom and liberty?

(To order a copy of The Presidency in Black and White, visit: http://www.amazon.com/exec/ obidos/ASIN/1442238410/ref%3dnosim/thslfofire-20.)

April Ryan (Photo: Christy Bowe, Image Catcher News.)

The New Tri-State Defender

Help Wanted OPERATIONS MANAGER WANTED – Port Commission Memphis, TN. Needed to direct coordinate and exercise functional authority for planning, organization, control, integration and completion of projects within areas of assigned within the jurisdiction of the Memphis and Shelby County Port Commission. To see full Job Description please visithttp://www.adamskeegan.com/Career-Center/Job-Listing/tid/35/rtm/544#sthash.3saZW72J.dpuf

Legal Notices

NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. § 67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: 1. Purchaser: Anderson Johnson, Jr. Tax Parcel # 0965070E000510 Tax Sale # 0203 Exhibit # 18877 Price Offered: $100.00

Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) days of the initial publication of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 10:00 a.m. on April 2, 2015, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

SHELBY COUNTY LAND BANK 584 ADAMS AVENUE, MEMPHIS, TN 38103 MIKE BLACKWELL (901) 222-2581 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. § 67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: 1. Purchaser: City of Memphis, for the use and benefit of M L G & W Tax Parcel # 05205800000200 Tax Sale # 0206 Exhibit # 9147 Price Offered: $200.00

Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) days of the initial publication of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 10:00 a.m. on April 1, 2015, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

SHELBY COUNTY LAND BANK 584 ADAMS AVENUE, MEMPHIS, TN 38103 MIKE BLACKWELL (901) 222-2581 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. § 67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: 1. Purchaser: Dwayne Jones Tax Parcel # 04508100000010 Tax Sale # 0901 Exhibit # 4908 Price Offered: $1,750.00

Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) days of the initial publication of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 1:00 p.m. on April 1, 2015, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

SHELBY COUNTY LAND BANK 584 ADAMS AVENUE, MEMPHIS, TN 38103 MIKE BLACKWELL (901) 222-2581 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. § 67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: 1. Purchaser: Paris London Tax Parcel # 02910300000180 Tax Sale # 0304 Exhibit # 3556 Price Offered: $200.00

Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) days of the initial publication of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 9:30 a.m. on March 31, 2015, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

SHELBY COUNTY LAND BANK 584 ADAMS AVENUE, MEMPHIS, TN 38103 MIKE BLACKWELL (901) 222-2581 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. § 67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: 1. Purchaser: Paris London Tax Parcel # 05804600001260 Tax Sale # 0201 Exhibit # 9581 Price Offered: $100.00

Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) days of the initial publication of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 10:00 a.m. on March 31, 2015, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

SHELBY COUNTY LAND BANK 584 ADAMS AVENUE, MEMPHIS, TN 38103 MIKE BLACKWELL (901) 222-2581

THE NEW TRI-STATE DEFENDER CLASSIFIEDS 203 Beale Street, Suite 200 Memphis, TN 38103 PH (901) 523-1818 FAX (901) 578-5037 HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

DEADLINES: Display ads Monday 5 p.m.

Classifieds ads Monday 5 p.m.

RATES: Standard rates: $9.50 per line for 1 column ad.

Rates are non-commissionable and are quoted at the net rate. No refund for early cancellation.

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

NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. § 67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: 1. Purchaser: Paris London Tax Parcel # 0730880K000070 Tax Sale # 99.04 Exhibit # 12316 Price Offered: $100.00

Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) days of the initial publication of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 10:30 a.m. on March 31, 2015, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

SHELBY COUNTY LAND BANK 584 ADAMS AVENUE, MEMPHIS, TN 38103 MIKE BLACKWELL (901) 222-2581 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. § 67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: 1. Purchaser: Paris London Tax Parcel # 0730880K000080 Tax Sale # 99.04 Exhibit # 12317 Price Offered: $100.00

Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) days of the initial publication of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 11:00 a.m. on March 31, 2015, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

SHELBY COUNTY LAND BANK 584 ADAMS AVENUE, MEMPHIS, TN 38103 MIKE BLACKWELL (901) 222-2581 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. § 67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: 1. Purchaser: Paris London Tax Parcel # 07310200001050 Tax Sale # 0205 Exhibit # 12578 Price Offered: $200.00

Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) days of the initial publication of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 11:30 a.m. on March 31, 2015, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

SHELBY COUNTY LAND BANK 584 ADAMS AVENUE, MEMPHIS, TN 38103 MIKE BLACKWELL (901) 222-2581 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. § 67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: 1. Purchaser: Paris London Tax Parcel # 07311000000350 Tax Sale # 0304 Exhibit # 11900 Price Offered: $200.00

Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) days of the initial publication of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 1:00 p.m. on March 31, 2015, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

SHELBY COUNTY LAND BANK 584 ADAMS AVENUE, MEMPHIS, TN 38103 MIKE BLACKWELL (901) 222-2581 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. § 67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: 1. Purchaser: Paris London Tax Parcel # 0731110B000790 Tax Sale # 92.2A Exhibit # 1277 Price Offered: $50.00

Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) days of the initial publication of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 1:15 p.m. on

March 12 - 18, 2015

Page 13

CLASSIFIEDS BEER PERMITS Flat Rate: $30 GENERAL INFORMATION: Some categories require prepayment.

All ads subject to credit approval. The New Tri-State Defender reserves the right to correctly classify and edit all copy or to reject or cancel any ad at any time. Only standard abbreviations accepted. Copy change during ordered schedule constitutes new ad & new changes. Deadlines for cancellation are identical to placement deadlines. Rates subject to change.

ADJUSTMENTS: PLEASE check your ad the first day it appears. Call (901) 523-1818 if an error occurs. We can only offer in-house credit and NO REFUNDS are issued.

THE NEW TRI-STATE DEFENDER assumes no financial responsibility for errors nor for copy omission. Direct any classified billing inquires to (901) 523-1818.

March 31, 2015, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

SHELBY COUNTY LAND BANK 584 ADAMS AVENUE, MEMPHIS, TN 38103 MIKE BLACKWELL (901) 222-2581

NOTICE OF PROPOSED NOMINAL CONSIDERATION CONVEYANCE OR SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. § 67-5-2509(d), that Shelby County Government has received a Request for a Nominal Consideration Conveyance to acquire the following property: Douglass Doll House Tax Parcel #04303800000110 Tax Sale #0703 Exhibit #7791 List Price: $3,000.00 Terms: Cash Additional requests for Offers to Purchase may be submitted within Ten (10) days of the initial publication of this notice. If additional Offers to Purchase are received and found acceptable, all prospective Purchasers will be notified and the property will be re-advertised based upon the acceptable offer. If no additional acceptable Offers to Purchase are received, the property will thereafter be conveyed to the above purchaser for Nominal Consideration as approved by the Shelby County Board of Commissioners “AS IS -WHERE IS” without warranties of any sort.

SHELBY COUNTY LAND BANK 584 ADAMS AVENUE, MEMPHIS, TN 38103 MIKE BLACKWELL (901) 222-2581

ment has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: 1. Purchaser: Paris London Tax Parcel # 09350000002620 Tax Sale # 1002 Exhibit # 2225 Price Offered: $2000.00

Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) days of the initial publication of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 9:00 a.m. on March 31, 2015, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

SHELBY COUNTY LAND BANK 584 ADAMS AVENUE, MEMPHIS, TN 38103 MIKE BLACKWELL (901) 222-2581 Public Notice Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority Pavement Joint Seal Training Seminar

The Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority (“Authority”) will host a “Free Pavement Joint Seal Training Seminar” on April 1, 2015. This training will teach individuals about the equipment, tools and products needed to perform joint sealing as well as the application of sealant on runways and how to repair joint seals on runways. Concrete contractors, prime contractors, sub-contractors, minority and non-minority small business firms having

NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. § 67-5-2507, that Shelby County GovernOPPORTUNITY FOR PUBLIC HEARING

The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) hereby affords the public the opportunity for a public hearing in order to receive comments from the public concerning four grant applications to the U. S. Department of Transportation – Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) for capital assistance grants under 49 U.S.C. § 5307, § 5337 and § 5339 and for capital and operating assistance grants under 49 U.S.C. § 5310.

Persons interested in having a hearing must inform MATA in writing within 15 days of the publication of this notice. If MATA does not receive any such request for a public hearing within this period, a second notice will be published stating that no hearing will be held because no requests were received. Also, if no request for a public hearing is received, and the program of projects is not changed prior to the submission of the grant applications, this notice will also serve as the final program of projects. If MATA receives a written request for a public hearing within the 15-day period, a second notice will be published stating the date, time, and location of the hearing no later than 10 days before the scheduled hearing.

It is not expected that any persons, families, or businesses will be displaced by the projects. The projects are not expected to have a significant environmental impact upon the urbanized area. MATA solicits comments on the projects from all interested parties and private transportation providers. The projects will also take into consideration the transit needs of the elderly and disabled.

49 U.S.C. § 5307 FORMULA FUNDS Urbanized Area: Memphis, TN, MS, AR Apportionment for FY15: $10,895,931 Carryover Funds: $ 3 Total Funds Available: $10,895,934 LINE ITEM DESCRIPTION

LINE ITEM BUDGET PROJECT TYPE

1. Bus Facility Improvements

$ 500,000 (Federal 400,000) (State 50,000) (Local 50,000)

Capital

2. Computer Hardware and Software

$ 60,000 (Federal 48,000) (State 6,000) (Local 6,000)

Capital

3. Fare Collection Equipment

$ 450,000 (Federal 360,000) (State 45,000) (Local 45,000)

Capital

4. Associated Transit Improvements

$ 150,000 (Federal 120,000) (State 15,000) (Local 15,000)

Capital

5. Office Equipment and Furniture $

(Federal

(State

(Local

40,000 32,000) 4,000) 4,000)

Capital

6. ADA Paratransit Service $ 1,500,000 (Federal 1,200,000)

(State 150,000)

(Local 150,000) 7. Preventive Maintenance $11,750,000 (Federal 9,400,000) (State 1,175,000) (Local 1,175,000)

Capital

Capital

TOTAL SECTION 5307 FUNDS $14,450,000 (Federal 11,560,000) (State 1,445,000) (Local 1,445,000) 49 U.S.C. § 5337 STATE OF GOOD REPAIR FUNDS 1. Preventive Maintenance for $ 1,450,000 Rail System (Federal 1,016,000)

(State 145,000)

(Local 145,000) 2. Rail Facility Improvements

$ 100,000 (Federal 80,000) (State 10,000) (Local 10,000)

Capital

Capital

49 U.S.C. § 5339 BUS AND BUS FACILITIES FUNDS 1. Purchase up to Three $ 1,200,000 Fixed-Route Buses (Federal 960,000)

(State 120,000)

(Local 120,000) 2. Bus Facility Improvements

$ 200,000 (Federal 160,000) (State 20,000) (Local 20,000)

Capital

Capital

49 U.S.C. § 5310 ENHANCED MOBILITY OF SENIORS AND INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES PROGRAM FUNDS 1. Operating Projects $ 1,500,000

(Federal 750,000)

(State 375,000)

(Local 375,000) 2. Capital Projects

$ 1,562,500 (Federal 1,250,000) (State 156,250) (Local 156,250)

3. Project Administration $

(Federal

(State

(Local

220,000 220,000) 0) 0)

Operating

Capital

Operating

The funds appropriated to MATA through the City of Memphis Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and MATA’s operating budget will be used as local match for the capital budgets with the exception of Section 5310 projects which may be funded with City of Memphis CIP funds, other local funds and/or private funds. The remainder of the budget will be funded through FTA and TDOT. The amount of funds for the projects requested under Section 5307 will be subject to the availability of funds appropriated.

If a hearing is held, MATA will afford the opportunity for interested persons or agencies to be heard and shall consider the social and economic effects of the projects, their impact on the environment including requirements under the Clean Air Act, the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, and other applicable Federal environmental statutes, and the projects’ consistency with the goals of local urban planning. Interested persons may submit orally at the hearing, or in writing, comments, evidence and recommendations with respect to said projects. Additional copies of the Program of Projects and Budget are available upon request. The public may review the draft grant applications at the address listed below Monday through Friday, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

All requests for a public hearing, additional copies of the Program of Projects and Budget, or requests to review the draft grant applications shall be sent to: Mr. Maury Miles, Senior Manager of Grants and Procurement, Memphis Area Transit Authority, 1370 Levee Road, Memphis, TN 38108, mmiles@matatransit.com.

Ronald L. Garrison President/General Manager

March 12 - 18, 2015

Page 14

experience in concrete construction or companies associated with NAICS codes 238990 & 488119 are encouraged to attend. Information about becoming certified as a Disadvantage Business Enterprise (“DBE”) or Small Business will also be discussed.

The Authority’s goal is to provide interested parties an opportunity to learn of the process and products needed to complete joint seal projects at the Authority. The joint seal training will be offered at no cost and lunch will be provided.

The Joint Seal Training will be held: Wednesday, April 1, 2015 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM CST Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority Administration & Support Facility 3505 Tchulahoma Road Memphis, TN 38118 Space is limited and registration is required. Please RSVP by completing the registration form and waiver release form located on our web site (www.mscaa.com) no later than March 27, 2015.

NOTICE TO BIDDER(S) Shelby County Government is soliciting proposals for the provision of Construction Services to Furnish and Install Chillers and Underground Piping for Building in Downtown Memphis, Tennessee for Shelby County Government.

Information regarding this RFP is located on the County’s website at www.shelbycountytn.gov. At the top of the home page, click on the links “Department,” “P” for the Purchasing Department and “Bids” to locate the name of the above-described RFP. REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL DUE MARCH 27, 2015 AT 4:00 PM

CLASSIFIEDS RFP 15-002-37 DOWNTOWN DISTRICT COOLING LOOP AND UTILITY INFRASTRUCTURE UPGRADE A VOLUNTARY pre-bid conference will be held at 9:30 AM, Wednesday, March 18, 2015 at Shelby County Support Services, 584 Adams Avenue, Conference Room, Memphis, TN 38105.

Shelby County is an equal opportunity affirmative action employer, drug-free with policies of non-discrimination on the basis of race, sex, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or military service.

THE RIGHT TO REJECT ANY AND ALL BIDS IS RESERVED By order of MARK H. LUTTRELL, JR., SHELBY COUNTY MAYOR SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Bids and Request for Proposals The Shelby County Board of Education, Central Nutrition Center, will be accepting bids with the purpose to: Establish Contracts for the 2015-2016 SY Direct from Manufacturer Commercial Food Bid #031815 to purchase Specified Line Items and or “All or None” Bottom Line Grouped Items.

Also, the Central Nutrition Center is accepting written proposals for Automated Biometric Time and Attendance System #033015.

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

The New Tri-State Defender

Thank you for your interest and responses.

Shelby County Schools – Procurement Services ALL INTERESTED BIDDERS The Shelby County Board of Education will accept written proposals (RFP) for Integrated Library and Textbook Automation System.

Visit our website for additional information: http://www.scsk12.org/uf/procurement/bids.php Questions concerning this RFP should be addressed to Sharrion Smith at (901) 416-5414 or emailed to smithsd1@scsk12.org Thank you for supporting Shelby County Schools.

Cerita Butler, Director Procurement Services

CLASSIFIEDS

Makes Good Cents

Questions concerning proposals should be addressed to Central Nutrition Center at (901) 416-5550.

Memphis police: Backlogged rape kits tested, serial suspects identified

by Adrian Sainz Associated Press

Testing of thousands of rape evidence kits that sat ignored for years in Memphis has resulted in the identification of 16 people suspected of raping multiple victims, an investigator said Monday.

Memphis, Houston, Cleveland and Detroit are among the U.S. cities working to reduce a backlog of thousands of untested rape kits, with hopes that evidence collected from the kits could lead to prosecution of more sexual assault cases. Rape victims have sued the city of Memphis,

alleging that the failure to test some 12,000 kits has allowed too many rapists to escape prosecution.

In Memphis, the backlog dates back to the 1970s, officials say. After the backlog was revealed in late 2013, Memphis Mayor A C Wharton Jr. formed a task force charged with eliminating it.

Police began using test results to start investigations into finding victims and suspects.

A report issued by former U.S. Attorney Veronica Coleman-Davis in June 2014 said no one maliciously or wantonly allowed the kits to remain untested in Memphis. Instead, the report attributed the problem “to a general and collective failure to understand the importance of DNA testing as was reflected in common practices in place locally and nationwide.”

Rape kits contain samples of semen, saliva or blood taken from a victim.

Specimens containing DNA evidence are uploaded to the FBI’s Combined

DNA Index System, or CODIS, to check for a match.

During a public meeting about rape kit testing, Memphis police Lt. Cody Wilkerson reported that 5,386 kits have been sent to labs for testing and that 58 cases have been sent to prosecutors for indictment. He said 25 alleged rapists have been identified, including 16 believed to have assaulted multiple people.

Dozens of investigations have been cut short because of statutes of limitations on rape charges, or the deaths of victims or suspects, he said.

Members of women’s groups present at the meeting said news of the backlog

and the new investigations has led to healthy public discussion about the evils of rape and its effect on victims.

“We’re saying the word ‘rape’ all the time,” said Deborah Clubb, executive director of the Memphis Area Women’s Council. “We’re changing our city.”

In February, officials in Houston said evidence from more than 6,600 rape kits that went untested there for years has turned up 850 hits in the FBI’s nationwide database of DNA profiles.

In Detroit, prosecutors discovered more than 11,000 rape kits in an abandoned police warehouse in 2009. In Cleveland, prosecutors have sent their entire 4,700-kit backlog for testing.

The New Tri-State Defender

March 12 - 18, 2015

COMMUNITY

Page 15

House panel tables teacher pay funding discussion until summer

by Grace Tatter Chalkbeat Tennessee

Despite threat of a lawsuit against the state by several large school districts, Tennessee legislators decided Tuesday they aren’t ready to tackle the state’s complex education funding formula that’s causing exasperation among local school administrators.

Rep. Harry Brooks (R-Knoxville) recommended that a bill related to the funding formula and teacher pay be studied further this summer by the House Education Administration and Planning subcommittee.

House Bill 824 – which includes a fiscal note of about $500 million – would require the state to allot more money to local school districts for teacher salaries so that all teachers across the state could make at least $50,000. Currently, the state provides about $38,000 per teacher to districts but, because most school funding in Tennessee is raised locally, a wide disparity exists in overall teacher pay from district to district.

Tennessee ranks 40th in the nation in teacher pay and 42nd in education spending overall as of 2011-2012, the most recent year for which federal data is available.

“This (bill) would simply reflect for the first time what districts are actually having to spend to hire and retain teachers,” said Rep. Jason Powell (D-Nashville), the House sponsor, who concurred with Brooks’ recommendation for further study.

AKAs to honor Memphis Leaders at South Eastern Regional Conference

A bill to address pay parity for teachers across Tennessee will be studied this summer by state lawmakers. (Photo: Kyle Kurlick) Several school systems are considering lawsuits against the state for inadequate funding, and some of their concerns would be alleviated if the bill became law.

Tennessee’s Basic Education Program (BEP)

determines the amount of state funding received by local school districts. Its formula undergoes an annual review by a committee of officials from across Tennessee, who have recommended that the legislature address the widening dis-

parity in teacher salaries.

Teacher pay ranges from $39,607 in Grundy County to $56,181 in Shelby County Schools, a salary slightly less than the national average.

Gov. Bill Haslam announced in his State of the State address his proposal to invest an additional $97.6 million in teacher salaries, which would equate to raises of about 4 percent.

But that doesn’t necessarily translate to actual 4 percent raises. Districts ultimately get to choose how to spend the state money and how much local funding to add.

Haslam has suggested he’s more interested in redistributing existing funds than increasing the overall BEP funding pool. That stance is a source of frustration among local district officials, prompting the school boards of Shelby, Knox and Hamilton counties to explore taking legal action against the state.

Sen. Jeff Yarbro (D-Nashville) believes that the legislature has shirked its duty in recent years by not altering the funding structure to include more money for teacher pay.

“Gov. Haslam has set the bar to become the fastest-improving state in teacher salaries, but to do that, we have to get serious,” he said. “We as legislators can’t claim to be funding positions for teachers when we’re only paying 80 percent of the actual cost.”

(Contact Grace Tatter at gtatter@chalkbeat.org. Follow on Twitter: @GraceTatter, @ chalkbeattn.)

Break It Down Towing’s Tony Anderson has some break-it-down advice for Memphis

M o r e than 3,000 women “I see my company as

by Brittney Gathen of Alpha growing to where I can Special to The New Tri-State DeK a p p a employ more young Afrifender Alpha Socan-Americans, give them rority, Inthe opportunity to own their Antonio “Tony” Anderson corporated own businesses and just give developed a passion for the will gather them the outlook of knowing towing business at an early in Memthat if ‘I can do it, you can do age, with his first exposure phis for the it.’ But it takes persistence, coming as a teenager.

83rd South hard work, doing people Dorothy “I knew an old guy in the E a s t e r n Buckhanan right and building your clineighborhood who had a Regional entele to where people know Wilson tow truck and I always used Conferto trust you with their prized to hang around him and ask ence on possessions.”

Thursday (March 12) through him questions. So I kind of Anderson advises business Sunday to discuss the future of knew that’s what I wanted to owners and aspiring business do when I got out of college,” the sorority. owners to, “Put God first, ask The conference kicks off on Anderson said.

God for it, but also work on it.

The Melrose High School Thursday at 7 p.m. with a pubDon’t just ask God for it; work lic meeting program welcoming graduate enrolled at a twotowards what you ask God for. local dignitaries, community and year college, but after a year Be persistent, be patient, unbusiness leaders. Alpha Kappa he decided it wasn’t for him. derstand that tomorrow is anAlpha International President He chose to opt for his passion other day.”

Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson will – owning a tow truck compaYou might struggle today, serve as keynote speaker. The ny. but tomorrow is another day, Anderson said he purchased event will be held at the Memhe said. his first tow truck around Featured in Anderson’s fleet is a towing rig that can haul 30,000 pounds, making phis Cook Convention Center.

“Prepare for struggle, (and) his towing business the first African-American-owned towing service in town with “We are very excited to 1993, with him doing all the that amount of horsepower. don’t think that everything is welcome our International towing. Now, some 22 years going to be easy. The gratifiPresident to Memphis,” said later, Anderson is the owner of cation and the prize is knowtrious, creative entrepreneur AKA South Eastern Region- Break It Down Towing, Inc., ing that you’ve succeeded in with whom we were going to al Director Mary B. Conner. a 24-hour towing business losomething and you tried to have a very productive and en“She has demonstrated proven cated at 2310 Dunn Ave. He give something back to the joyable banking relationship,” leadership not only within our has three workers on payroll neighborhood.”

Sutton said in a statement. sorority, but as one of the most and five trucks.

An engaged and involved “His tireless work ethic, dediFeatured in Anderson’s fleet senior officials at the largest member of the Orange Mound cation to customer service and Goodwill affiliate in the world. is a towing rig that can haul passion for his community are community, Anderson is a We know she will have a time- 30,000 pounds, allowing him so impressive. Break It Down member of the Melrose High to haul some Class C vehicles ly message to share with us.”

Towing is the perfect example School PTSA, the Orange Buckhanan Wilson guides (vehicles weighing 26,001 or of the kind of small business Mound Civic Organization policy, develops programs and more pounds) and all Class D that we want to support in and the Orange Mound Comsets the leadership tone for the vehicles (vehicles weighing Memphis. Financial Federal is munity Council. sorority’s over 265,000 mem- 26,000 pounds or less). His He would like to see the proud to work with Tony, and bers in more than 986 graduate is the first African-AmeriMemphis community put we look forward to seeing him and undergraduate chapters in can-owned business in town more of an emphasis on the grow.” the United States, the U.S. Vir- to have this kind of horseneeds of the youth.

Among Anderson’s more gin Islands, Bermuda, the Ca- power, according to Kerry “I would love to see the city memorable transports are the ribbean, Canada, Japan, Ger- Hayes, the director of public give the kids something to two cars in front of the Lormany, South Korea and Africa. relations for Doug Carpenraine Motel at the National do,” Anderson said.

She is senior vice president at ter& Associates, the public “I would love to see the Civil Rights Museum. He Goodwill Industries, responsi- relations and advertising firm city remember that if we lose towed them from the museum ble for a $25 million enterprise that serves Financial Federal, to a paint and body shop and our kids, we’re going to lose in southeastern Wisconsin and which provided funding for back. His company also has the city. The young that we the rig. metropolitan Chicago. towed vehicles for NFL play- put to the side and incarcerAnderson said Financial During the opening proers such as Michael Orr and ate, those are going to be the gram, Alpha Kappa Alpha Federal Vice President Ben An engaged and involved member of the Orange Dwayne Robertson. young we are expecting to will honor local business and Sutton reached out to him and Mound community, Tony Anderson is driven to help run the city. …

“They towed my car, a 66 community leaders in the that the bank made the transi- young people. (Courtesy photos) “So how can we expect Cutlass, off the interstate.

I Memphis area who have made tion easy. them to run the city when all trust Tony Anderson,” Orr “In the past I was having something in me and gave me Sutton said the bank is posted on the Break It Down we did was sweep them under significant contributions in the service targets initiated by the problems with getting financ- the opportunity. It was a bless- proud to help Anderson in his website. the rug, incarcerate them, fail sorority globally. Honorees in- es through other institutions,” ing that Ben saw something in business endeavor. to educate them and not give Anderson sees his business Anderson said. “The guys me and saw something in my “As soon as we met Tony, it evolving to where he can in- them anything to hold on to clude: was clear that he was an indus- spire and employ more people. and believe?”

• Health Promotion: Dr. over at Financial Federal saw company.”

Kenneth S. Robinson, president and chief executive officer of United Way of MidSouth; • Global Impact: Terry Lee Freeman, president, National Civil Rights Museum; • Educational Enrichment: Dorsey E. Hopson II, Esq., Superintendent, Shelby CounThe Memphis Alumnae Chapter of Delty School, and; ta Sigma Theta will host its Spring EM• Family Strengthening: BODI (Empowering Males to Build OpRuby Bright, executive direcportunities for Developing Independence) tor and chief administrative conference on March 28th. officer, Women’s Foundation The conference, which will focus on of Greater Memphis. young males in grades 7-12, will be held • The four-day meeting will at Southwind High School at 7900 East have members representing Shelby Dr. It is a partnership with the 101 chapters across the states Multi Agency Gang Unit. of Alabama, Mississippi and Set to run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., regTennessee. will convene at the istration and breakfast will begin at 8:15 Memphis Cook Convention a.m.

Center to attend this importThe deadline for registration is March ant four-day meeting. AKA 25th. To register online, visit www.memmembers will host one of the phisalumnaedst.org. sorority’s national community Sharon R. Williams is the conference service projects in Memphis – chairperson, Tankika Lester and Annie One Million Backpacks – in Hollings serving as co-chairs. For conwhich thousands of backpacks It’s her day… ference information email macembodi@ and school supplies will be gmail.com. collected and distributed to With the well-wishes of family, including her four daughters, Joyce Ann Ford Miller celebrated her children in Greater Memphis 75th birthday at Chimes and Occasions at 201 South Cooper last Saturday (March 7th). (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley) area.

Delta’s EMBODI conference for young males on March 28

SPORTS The New Tri-State Defender, March 12 - 18, 2015, Page 16

Athletic cattle in a meat market

by Omar Tyree NNPA News Service

The NBA trade deadline for the 2014-15 season and the 2015 NFL scouting combine have come and gone. Both professional team sport leagues – along with soccer, hockey, baseball and others – execute Omar player trades, Tyree scouting combines and official drafts to stock and restock their respective teams. But even though many professional ball players go on to make millions of dollars as highly skilled, marketed and idolized athletes, the team business interactions and policies can make them all feel like cattle in a meat market.

Imagine settling into a new home with your wife and kids in Houston, only to be traded to Sacramento, then to Minnesota and finally being shipped off to Boston, without having control over any of it. Each time you’re traded, not only do you have to deal with family arrangements, housing, school, daycare and culture in a new city and environment, you’re also forced to deal with new coaches, team philosophies, teammates, business managers and sometimes apathetic fan bases. The rabid fans may not know who you are and may not have wanted you, particularly if you replaced one of their favorite guys in an unexpected trade.

A record 39 National Basketball Association players were uprooted from their teams in trade deals recently, after a fury of management negotiations.

Granted, some of these players wanted to be traded and asked for it after evaluating less than ideal situations with their clubs. However, the majority of the player “trade bait” are tossed into various team deals just to make the contract numbers match up, as if they’re disposable perks in an infomercial: “If you buy the Ginsu knife set for only $39.95, we’ll throw in a stainless steel cooking pan, a rubber-grip spatula and a handy dandy egg beater all for free. So order now while the offer still stands.”

Sadly, I’m not exaggerating. Undesirable players have been tossed into NBA trade deals for as long as I’ve been a fan, watching Dr. J’s Afro bob across the screen in the late 1970s.

Even Charles Barkley and Shaquille O’Neal were traded a few times. Nevertheless, the players all accept it as “the nature of the business.” It’s what they all signed up for and agreed to.

But that doesn’t mean they have to like it. The more valuable and skilled players – and their agents – now wait patiently and strategically to play out shorter-length contracts and become “free agents,” where they’re finally given opportunities to choose their own teams, ala LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, Dwight Howard and Chris Bosh.

Then imagine being asked to strip down to your underwear in a crowded room full of three dozen team officials, as they direct you to turn left, right, backwards and forwards so they can weigh you, measure you, poke you, pull you and appraise you, while all taking down notes to decide on whether to draft you a few months later to play American football as a member of one of their 32 ball clubs.

You’ll also be asked a half dozen and repetitive personal background questions about any and all transgressions of your college years, including the actions and associations of your friends, family and significant others, with no tolerance for you to even flinch.

So you run, jump, throw, catch, dive, squat, grunt and answer every question on demand. If you fail to impress, you stand to lose several millions of dollars. That’s the nature of the National Football League, accepted by the roughly 250 players at this past weekend’s scouting combine at the Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, and these young men were more than happy to be there. They were the 250 chosen men from more than a hundred colleges and universities.

As the saying goes, “it is what it is,” professional athlete meat markets for billionaire owners to prod, select, assemble and trade their Cowboys, Redskins, Patriots, Lakers, Celtics and Bulls. And please don’t let me get started on Major League Baseball and their farm leagues, or the soccer clubs, where hundreds of hopeful athletes may never be “called up” to even make the meat market.

Nevertheless, millions of America and international boys continue to dream about attending those million-dollar meat markets every day, including me and my two sons. Until… we all wake up and decide to do something else with our lives.

In support of youth…

The 7th Annual Tri-State Youth Baseball Academy Banquet was held last Friday (March 6) at the Holiday Inn-University of Memphis, with former MLB All-Star Darrell Evans as the guest speaker. Evans debuted with the Atlanta Braves and earned a World Series ring with the 1984 Detroit Tigers. The Tri-State Youth Baseball Academy is chaired by Tony James, who is pictured with his wife, Teresa.

The banquet included the presentation of the 2014 league champions and coaches. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

‘In the moment,’ Tarik Black keeps on moving Native Memphian and former U of M standout talks Tigers, Pastner, Kansas and Lakers

throughout the years.”

After joining the Lakers and before kdevans@tsdmephis.com playing against the Grizzlies, Black had sat out five games, with L.A. head coach Tarik Black made his way back home last Byron Scott saying he had a plan for Friday (March 6) with the Los Angeles LakBlack. ers as his new team battled the Grizzlies in “There is a method to the madness,” a game that Memphis won 97-90.

Black said. “I like Coach Scott a lot. I He received a warm welcome from Fereally do. Right now I can’t complain. I dExForum crowd of more than 17,000. can’t ask for too much. My rookie season Black played nine minutes and scored three has been a blessing. I’ve done so much points while grabbing three rebounds. in my rookie year. I’ve been an NBA “Feels great to be back,” Black said. starter on two teams, one of them was “My last homecoming wasn’t so welcomone of the best teams in the NBA at the ing. I kind of expected it. It comes with the time. I can’t complain at all. I’m just territory.” waiting on my opportunity. I’m staying As he sat in the ready.” visitor’s locker In his 16 games room, Black rein a Laker unicalled the evening form, the rookie is of Nov. 17, 2014 averaging 5 points when the rookie and 5 rebounds stepped onto the while shooting FedExForum 56 percent from floor as a Houston the field in 17 Rocket and reminutes per game. ceived boos from He ranks fourth the crowd. He among rookies in finished that game rebounds. He had with eight points his first start with in 20 minutes of Los Angeles on play.

Feb. 4 at power “People are forward when fans and I decided the team faced to transfer (from the Milwaukee the University of Bucks. On Jan. 9 Memphis,” Black in his first home said, putting his appearance as a cold-shoulder reLaker facing the ception in context.

Orlando Magic, “On top of that Black finished I went to a school with a career-high that bids for a 14 points. On Jan. national title. So 13 he led his team when I came home in rebounds (nine) I kind of expectagainst the Miami ed that reaction.

Heat.

People love the Scott has talked Tigers. That’s the about changing reason why I dehis rotation soon cided to go there to get Black on in the first place. the floor.

It wasn’t unexAnd Black, pected. It didn’t who will be a free break my heart or agent next sumanything like that. mer, is fine with I still love Mem“soon.” phis.”

“I haven’t talkBlack signed ed to him about as an undrafted it,” Black said. free agent with “That’s one of the Rockets on those situations Aug. 27, 2014. where I don’t feel Houston waived like it’s my place. him on Dec. 26 I don’t really want and two days later to start anything. ended up with the I just trust him.

Lakers on a waivThat’s where that er claim. blind trust, that The Ridgeway faith comes in and High School I have that right chose to stay now.” home and play at The Lakers’ the U of M, where crowded fronthe earned his court includes Ed Bachelor of Arts Tarik Black scores over Zach Randolph of the Grizzlies during the Lakers’ most Davis, Jordan Hill degree in organi- recent visit to the FedExForum. (Photo: Warren Roseborough) and Carlos Boozzational manageer. Black said he ment. has no expectaIn his freshman year at Memphis, Black tered the program. tions and is taking each day of his NBA played in all 35 games, making 24 starts, “It was some things I learned under career one at a time. while averaging nine points and grabbing Coach Self (Bill Self, Kansas Jayhawks “I might not make it to next summer,” five rebounds per game. He played in all Men’s Basketball head coach) that I didn’t he said. “Tomorrow is not promised today.

35 games with 31 starts in his sophomore quite know under Coach Pastner,” Black That’s my mentality – staying in the moseason, averaging 10 points. In his junior said. “I definitely matured a lot at Kansas. ment and staying in the opportunity I have season, he played in 32 games and made Coach Self has been coaching now before right now. I think God everyday for it and I five starts, while averaging 8 points.

I was even born almost. Where as a guy just keep it moving.”

On May 20, 2013, Black transferred to like Coach Pastner, he’s starting to click. the University of Kansas and was ruled They’re getting better and better and he’s (Follow Kelley D. Evans on Twitter @ eligible immediately. During his stint with just becoming a better and better coach kelleysthrngrl.)

by Kelley D. Evans

the Jayhawks, he was named the Big 12 Preseason Newcomer of the Year and went on to average 15 points per game in the NCAA Tournament.

Black said his reason for transferring to Kansas was “just the opportunity.”

“I graduated early and worked hard,” Black said. “I did everything I could at the University of Memphis wearing the jersey.

I put in a lot of blood, sweat and tears in that jersey. It was just about that time to transition, go somewhere else and get a new experience. Obviously it was good for me.”

Josh Pastner was in his second season as the U of M’s head coach when Black en-