The New Tri-State Defender — January 21-28, 2021

January 21 - 27, 2021

VOL. 70, No. 3

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Transfer of Power!

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Biden’s speech: A flurry of poetry, politics and prose

Message, images of Inauguration suggest the promise of possibilities

by D. Kevin McNeir NNPA Newswire

Words matter – they always matter.

Contrary to that old childhood rhyme, “Sticks and stones may break my bones but words shall will never hurt me,” in recent weeks, if not over the past four years, America has witnessed the duality of the that words can have – either to build up or to tear down.

For Joseph R. Biden Jr., in delivering his inaugural address on Wednesday, he, perhaps more than anyone else, realized the immense importance of the words he used and the message he shared.

The ceremony would mark 244 years of our democracy and the 59th inauguration of the president of the United States.

Even more, the nation’s 46th president would need to make the best of his first opportunity to offer his plan for healing to a nation divided by racism, partisanship and the vestiges of a litany of divisive language and often questionable decisions that will mark the legacy of former President Donald J. Trump forever.

As a sign of the time, the National Mall would be bereft of people.

Thousands of American flags blowing in the wind on a blustery day of snow flurries in the District would stand on the grounds historically packed with thousands of citizens, politicians and preachers, members of the media, friends – even children, too young to understand the gravity of the moment.

As a sign of the times, there would be no crowd of cheering supporters

welcoming President Biden and Vice President Kamala D. Harris – the first woman and first woman of color to ever hold the venerable seat.

It should be noted that U.S. Capitol Police Officer Eugene Goodman, whose bravery in the wake of an unprecedented attack by pro-Trump insurrectionists on Jan. 6 has been reported by The Washington Informer, accompanied Harris and her husband, Douglas Emhoff.

As a sign of the times, given the recent attacks on the U.S. Capitol, many of the participants on the dais with the president would reportedly wear body armor — all of them wearing masks as a means of protecting themselves from a still deadly coronavirus health pandemic.

Biden continues along a path that only 39 other Americans have traveled before: to deliver a presidential inaugural address. His theme, “American United,” continued the essential message of his campaign: unity over division.

Facing the backdrop of a global pandemic, racial tensions and the second impeachment of his predeces-

SEE U.S.A. ON PAGE 3

Vice President Kamala Harris greets former President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama.

(Photos: Associated Press)

While being sworn in, Joe Biden places his hand on a Bible that has been in his family for more than 100 years.

INSIDE

Amanda Gorman gave voice to a generation, and the nation’s hopes Page 6

Vice President Harris: A new chapter opens in U.S. politics Page 6

COVID-19 UPDATE

Tennessee Democrats embrace history with Hendrell Remus

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Some history-making moments happen on a world stage. Others happen inconspicuously with little fanfare. The election of Hendrell Remus was more of the latter.

It was at a Saturday meeting of the Tennessee Democratic Party’s executive committee. Remus felt that he had something to offer – vision and direction – to a party that some say “may not be fully delivering.”

“There are two things I could bring to the table – my love for politics and a unique organizational skill set,” said Remus. “I felt that

I could streamline our organization and infrastructure in some party procedural issues. Although I had only been on the executive committee Hendrell for a short peRemus riod of time, I wanted to run, and I won.”

Not only is Remus the first African American to hold the position, he is also the youngest.

“I am the first millennial to head

SEE TENN ON PAGE 2

The push for awareness while awaiting the vaccine

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

MLK-Day ready!...

The Grizzlies rev up before outlasting Phoenix in the 2021 Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Game at FedExForum. See related story, photos in Sports, Page 9.

Get TSD news, online anytime at TSDMemphis.com

Now that President Joe Biden’s administration is in place, there is enhanced optimism that Shelby County’s vaccination program against COVID-19 may get a substantial boost.

“President Biden is making vaccinations a priority from Day 1,” said Dr. Bruce Randolph, medical director of the Shelby County Health Department. “Those on our staff in charge of the vaccine campaign continue to do a tremendous job with adminis-

SEE COVID ON PAGE 2

The New Tri-State Defender

January 21 - 27, 2021

Page 2

NEWS TENN

CONTINUED FROM FRONT the state party,” Remus said.

Remus is no novice in politics. He has worked on a number of notable political campaigns, including: Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris in 2018 and Joe Biden for President, Southeast Region Tennessee Leadership Council, 2020.

Smitten with politics, Remus wet his feet in a couple of unsuccessful runs for public office: 2012, Tennessee House of Representatives, Dist. 84; and 2014, Shelby County Commission, Dist. 11. He lost both, but his star continued to rise as a member of the Tennessee Young Democratic National Committee.

And, he learned some valu-

able lessons – lessons that have brought him to this moment.

“I have a vision for this party,” said Remus. “When people say that Tennessee is a ‘deep red state,’ I remind them that prior to the rise of the Tea Party, we had Democratic governors. A Republican governor would serve for eight years, and then a Democrat would serve for eight years.”

Remus has watched with great interest the historic “blue-ing” of Georgia.

“Stacey Abrams strategically worked a 10-year plan,” said Remus. “It wasn’t a ‘getblue-quick’ scheme. There is a blueprint for what happened in Georgia, and there is no reason it can’t happen in Tennessee.

State Democrats, said Remus, have to improve in two

very important areas: messaging and strategy. If messaging and strategy is more efficient and effective, he thinks the party has a good chance of winning over Independents and even some Republicans.

“Our messaging has to break through some of this vitriol spewed by the Republicans,” said Remus. “Politics consists of two main divisions: social issues, which have to do with the heart, and economic issues, which have to do with the pocket. We really aren’t going to make much headway on the social issues, but everyone has suffered under the economic policies of the Republicans.”

Remus said the key to growing the party’s power across the state is increasing new voter registration efforts in every

region. Voters will welcome the economic policies of the Democratic Party, he said.

“Especially for Black and Brown people, we want to work toward everyone making a living wage, economic relief for student debt, more grant assistance with college, and more government assistance for entrepreneurs trying to open small businesses,” Remus said. “The government should also sponsor more community banks in economically impoverished areas.”

He is looking with great anticipation to mid-term elections in 2022.

“Republicans will be re-districting,” said Remus. “Re-districting is supposed to be fair,

but it hardly ever is. We must get some Democrats on those committees so that re-districting will be fair. If not, the party will launch a robust, legal assault. Gerrymandering is still being done. It is not legal, but it is still done.”

(Gerrymandering is the practice of manipulating the boundaries of a district to favor a particular party or class.)

Although Remus’ term is only two years, he foresees setting in motion plans for the party being competitive in the governor’s race.

“I believe we have a really good shot against this governor,” said Remus. “Working with people across the state,

registering new voters, and improving our message and strategy will make a Democratic (candidate) very competitive.”

Remus, who has lived in Nashville for five years, is originally from Memphis.

“I attended Oakridge High School and LeMoyne-Owen College, although I received my bachelors degree from another college,” said Remus. “I love Memphis. Memphis is home.”

Remus is presently assistant director of the Emergency Management Office at Tennessee State University. He will be vacating his post to take on the duties of Tennessee Democratic Party chair.

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Dr. Bruce Randolph, Shelby County medical director, was vaccinated against COVID-19 on Wednesday. (Courtesy photo)

COVID

CONTINUED FROM FRONT tering the vaccine. As we get more in, more vaccinations will be done.”

Randolph said the health department is moving as quickly as possible to get the vaccines to the general population. Because the pandemic has highlighted some inherent disparity for people of color seeking healthcare, there are declarations that administering of vaccines will be watched very closely.

“Right now, those in the medical field and first responders have received the vaccine,” Randolph said. “They do not represent the demographic of the general population.

“When the vaccine is being administered to people 75 and over, and then persons 65 and older, and people with some vulnerabilities, then we can tell if there is some disparity, why it is happening, and take steps to correct it.”

Joan Carr, Shelby County Health Department public information officer, has tracked the numbers of COVID-19 vaccinations.

“As of Tuesday, 33,687 vaccinations had been given in Shelby County,” Carr said. “That includes by the health department, the hospital systems, and the pharmacy chains, Walgreen’s and CVS.” Carr explained that the

vaccine is not being administered in the retail pharmacy locations, but Walgreen’s and CVS have contracted with the federal government to provide vaccinations in nursing homes and care homes for staff and residents.

“We show that 6,999 people in Shelby County have received both doses of the vaccine,” said Carr. “That means they are fully vaccinated. That number is expected to rise drastically in the next few weeks as the health department administers the second dose to the 9,500 people who were vaccinated at our drive-thru sites between Dec. 28 and Jan. 3.”

Health officials had previously announced that Shelby County would receive 9,800 doses of the vaccine each week throughout the month of January.

Because 60 percent of deaths in the county from COVID-19 are African-American, Randolph expressed concern that the vaccine distribution reflect that statistic in a meaningful way.

Chip Washington, the health department’s public information officer for COVID-19, said his office is doing everything possible to make sure everyone’s questions are answered.

“In order to achieve a new normal, we have to trust in the science,” said Washington.

“And that means taking the vaccine. We have to trust the vaccine.”

Washington said he had misgivings about the vaccines because they both had been produced in nine months.

“Dr. Randolph helped me to understand why the vaccine was produced in less than a year,” said Washington. “The basic therapy for the vaccine had been developed a long time ago. In other words, they were not starting from scratch.”

Once the general population is taking the vaccines, health officials want to make sure that disparity is not occurring because people are afraid of taking it, Washington said.

The right messaging will be essential, he said.

Carr said while the number of total doses received is not readily available, a portion has been set aside, exclusively, for second doses.

“We want to assure the public that everyone who has received a first dose will get their second dose,” Carr said.

Those who have received only one dose are only about 70 percent protected, according to Randolph. CDC guidelines do not consider a person fully vaccinated until that second shot is administered.

When vaccination moves to the more general population – those 75 and over, then, those 65 and over – drive-thru sites and times will be announced.

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The New Tri-State Defender

January 21 - 27, 2021

Page 3

TRANSFER OF POWER U.S.A.

CONTINUED FROM FRONT sor, the hope, according to Biden’s inaugural committee, was that his words would spark “the beginning of a new national journey that restores the soul of America, brings the country together and creates a path to a brighter future.”

Words from previous Commanders in Chief America has become accustomed to hearing inaugural addresses that use well-known phrases, punctuated with religious undertones and without unnecessary hyperboles. Biden would follow this path, realizing, as he would say, that his first job as president remains to heal the nation.

From the inaugural addresses of Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War to Franklin Delano Roosevelt during the Great Depression — from George W. Bush in those days following 9/11 and President Obama in a recession that nearly derailed and destroyed the nation – there have been many presidents who have taken office in the midst of a tumultuous era.

Biden joins these presidents of the past. Still, the devout Catholic and longtime resident of Delaware, has been in public service for more than 50 years, including serving in the U.S. Senate and as vice president.

His address reflected his experience in tacking tough situations – those he had faced both professionally and personally.

Consider these unforgettable remarks from past inaugural addresses.

Thomas Jefferson (1801): “But every difference of opinion is not a difference of principle. We have called by different names brethren of the same principle. We are all Republicans; we are all Federalists.”

Abraham Lincoln (1861): “I am loath to close. We are not enemies

Security was tight. (Photo: C-SPAN) but friends. We must not be enemies.

Though passion may have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection.”

Abraham Lincoln (1865): “With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation’s wounds, to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan, to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace among ourselves and with all nations.”

Franklin Delano Roosevelt (1933): “So, first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself – nameless. unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance.”

John F. Kennedy (1961): “And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.”

Ronald Reagan (1981): “The economic ills we suffer have come upon us over several decades. They will not go away in days, weeks, or months, but they will go away. They will go away because we, as Americans, have the capacity now, as we’ve had in the past, to do whatever needs to be done to preserve this last and greatest bastion of freedom. In this

present crisis, government is not the solution to our problem; government is the problem.”

Biden: ‘Open our souls instead of hardening our hearts’ After taking the oath of office, the bells of Howard University tolled 49 times as the music from the Negro National Anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” could be heard softly in the background.

And then, the 46th president of the United States stood before the nation and the world.

“This is America’s day – this is democracy day. A day of history and resolve. We celebrate the triumph not of a candidate but of a cause. The will of the people has been heard and heeded. We learned again that democracy is fragile, precious – and it has prevailed,” Biden said.

“As we look ahead, restless, bold and optimistic, and set our sights on a nation we can and must be, I thank my predecessors from both parties from the bottom of my heart. Each of those patriots, including President Carter who could not be here with us today, have taken that oath – that we seek a more perfect union.”

“We have come so far but we have so much farther to go – much to repair, restore, build, heal and gain.

Few have found the times to be more challenging than what is before us now. In one year, we have lost more people than we did during World War II. We must confront this virus and other challenges and we will confront and defeat them.”

“I know the forces that divide us are deep and real but they are not new. Our history has been a constant struggle between the American ideal that we are all created equal and the reality of racism, nativism, fear and demonization that have torn us apart.”

“Through struggles and setbacks, we have always prevailed. History, faith and reason show the way forward where we can see each other not as adversaries but neighbors.

Without unity, there is no peace – only bitterness and fury. No nation but only a state of chaos. This is our historic moment of chaos and challenge and we must meet this moment as the United States of America.”

“If we do that, I guarantee you, we will not fail. Let’s start afresh. Let’s begin to listen to one another, see one another, show respect toward one another. Politics does not have to be a raging fire destroying everything in its path.”

“We must reject the culture in which facts themselves are manipulated – even manufactured. Here we stand where a riotous mob thought they could stop the will of the people.

It did not happen; it will not happen.

It will not happen today, not tomorrow, not ever.”

“To those who did not support our campaign, hear me out. As we move forward, if you still disagree, so be it. That’s democracy, that’s America.

But this disagreement must not lead to disunion. I will be the president for all Americans. And I promise I will fight as hard for those who did not support me as those who did.”

“St. Augustine wrote that the people were a multitude of the common objects of their love. What are the

common objects that define Americans? Opportunity, dignity, respect, honor and the truth. The past few weeks have taught us there are lies – lies told for profit and power. But we are elected to defend the truth and to defeat the lies.”

“Many of my fellow Americans face the future in fear and trepidation – fear about their jobs, healthcare, their families and what will come next. But the answer is not to turn inward, to retreat into competing factions, distrusting those who do not look like you, who do not worship like you. We must end this uncivil war. We can do this if we open our souls instead of hardening our hearts. If we are willing, like my momma said, to stand in another person’s shoes. Because in life there’s no accounting for what fate will deal you.”

“We are going to need each other to persevere in this dark winter as we enter what may be the deadliest phase of this virus. We must enter it as one nation. As the Bible says, ‘weeping may endure for a night but joy comes in the morning.’”

“The world is watching us today.

Here’s my message for those beyond our borders. America has been tested and we’ve come out stronger for it. We will repair our alliances and engage once again not to meet yesterday’s challenges but today’s and tomorrow’s. And we will lead by the power of our example.

“It’s time for boldness for there’s so much to do. We will be judged by how we resolve the cascading problems of this era. We will meet our obligations – I believe we will. And then we’ll write the next great chapter in the history of the United States. When our days are through, our children and our children’s children will say we did our best to heal this broken land.”

(D. Kevin McNeir is senior editor of the Washington Informer, where this story first appeared.)

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PERSPECTIVE The New Tri-State Defender, January 21 - 27, 2021, Page 4

THE CULTURAL COACH

Free press, local government oversight of quasi-agencies and nonprofits – or the lack thereof

by Joe B. Kent Curtis Weathers recently wrote a compelling piece on the educational opportunities provided by the tragic events at our nation’s Capitol on Jan. 6.

While sad, the event offers robust national civic exploratory inquiry into the U.S. Constitution, impeachment process, First Amendment and social meJoe B. dia.

Kent The only advantage to the event is that it was press covered and everyone saw it, which provides the opportunity for deeper analysis. Much harder to see is what goes uncovered by the local press, while perhaps undermining the local community.

So, what about local Memphis history and government?

It must be stated that the Tennessee State Civics Standards do not even mention such terms as “governmental oversight” or “quasigovernmental agencies.”

Local quasi-government agencies are public board bodies, with staffs and budgets, and that operate outside traditional government.

These agencies include the likes of Memphis Light Gas and Water Division (MLGW), Economic Development Growth Engine (EDGE) and Downtown Memphis Commission (DMC).

These organizations have either direct control over local tax dollars or have significant influence over the wellbeing of the local population. These are also agencies that operate under the auspices of local governmental oversight and involve multi-million-dollar questions impacting the local community.

While not locally reported, the Shelby County Commission made history on Dec. 21 by neglecting their oversight function, which is arguably common, and going further to obstruct requested due diligence on a $62 million funding allocation for public parking made by the Downtown Memphis Commission.

The County Trustee, Assessor and Chief Financial Officer all made requests to perform due diligence on the matter, but were overtly obstructed by the Commission!

The $62 million request involved the use of taxpayer money, funded through a restricted fund that no one in county government seemed to know about, as expressed through on the public record testimony.

On Dec. 7, the matter was cor-

rectly referred to committee for due diligence, based on a motion made

by Commissioner Mark Billingsley.

At the next commission meeting, on Dec. 21, Billingsley strangely reversed his position and moved to reconsider the $62 million question, effectively obstructing, requested by county officials, due diligence.

This is a stunning piece of local history.

The former does not mention that on Dec. 21, the DMC made at least two on-the-record material misrepresentations involving mistaken annual city and county tax dollar contributions to the fund and the understating of parking garage fund financial liabilities by $12 million.

Both misrepresentations greased the skids for not performing due diligence and approving the $62 million public parking allocation. The $62 million approval was for public parking that is not presently needed, based on the DMC downtown parking study.

Further, due diligence would have revealed $23 million in possibly illegal taxpayer funded loans made to private developers using the fund.

Given this local historical event, if it is somehow possible to be accommodated by the state standards in the local curriculum, these are questions that might arise for local curricular exploration: How many quasi-governmental agencies, with their own budgets and assets funded by taxpayers, operate outside of local government, where local government has oversight authority?

How have external agencies impacted local budgets for education, public safety, infrastructure, and public health?

How much have quasi-governmental agencies abated in local taxes and how does that compare with other municipalities in the rest of the state?

What is the role of the free press in covering local government oversight of quasi agencies and non-profits or lack thereof?

Needless to say, these quasi-governmental agencies and corresponding local government oversight have significant impact on our local community.

Are our leaders of tomorrow learning anything at all about this critical area of local public governance?

The insurrection in Washington, D.C. yielded this image of the Confederate flag being paraded through the U.S. Capitol. The Cultural Coach columnist Linda S. Wallace says the urgent question now is this: “Can a group of slaves and slave masters in recovery survive at this stage of the disease?” (Screen capture)

The mob attack at the U.S. Capitol: Are we slaves and slave masters in recovery?

A slave master, you see, would feel only his votes truly count.

The votes of the slaves do not matter.

A slave master would think his beliefs are valid and see no need to have proof.

by Linda S. Wallace

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

When we remain silent, hate and rebellion spread with fury like stage four cancer. Ultimately, it seeks to win by killing its host.

Try as we might, we can’t wish cancer away. Getting mad at the disease and feeling sorry for ourselves doesn’t help either.

Those tactics simply allow the cancer to beat us down more quickly.

For centuries, America has put off finding a treatment for racism and a way to recover from brutal mass enslavement.

We knew we had a problem but talking about it was so uncomfortable. Diversity and bias training treated the symptoms but neither cut out the disease.

So we took the easiest path by keeping the focus on how much we have accomplished and how far we have come. Meanwhile, as we rejoiced, the cancer metastasized and gained more power.

The late Pennsylvania State Sen. Hardy Williams, a political visionary in Philadelphia, was the only elected official I have ever met who has been willing to speak openly about slavery. He was my teacher and, in one of our many conversations, he summed up America’s problem this way: “We are a nation of slaves and slave masters in recovery.”

As we all watched the rioters storm the Capitol, we could see Williams really was right. We watched an entitled mob assault the halls of democracy as if they were lords and masters. They yelled about taking the country back. They looked for people to punish for daring to disobey them.

A slave master, you see, would feel only his votes truly count. The votes of the slaves do not matter. A slave master would think his beliefs

are valid and see no need to have proof. As the person in charge, slave masters feel morally obligated to tell others on the plantation what to think, say and Linda S. do.

Wallace So here we are, America.

The urgent question before us: Can a group of slaves and slave masters in recovery survive at this stage of the disease?

Yes, I believe that we can. It won’t be easy. There’s a long, painful battle ahead. If we don’t choose the difficult road that we have long dreaded, the cancer may win.

Recovery begins with the admission that there is problem – both African Americans and White Americans are in recovery from the dark period of mass enslavement. And both communities are in denial.

As a formerly enslaved people, African Americans often fail to recognize their true value and potential.

Some see slaves – not princes and princesses – as they look at other folks with nappy hair and dark skin.

Let’s face it. We wouldn’t kill an innocent baby or bystander that we felt was destined to cure cancer or eradicate poverty one day, would we?

The faceless youth murdered in Black communities nearly every hour of every day are mourned by their families and friends for the loss of their talents. The greater society, however, doesn’t put a premium on these young Black lives.

Both White Americans and Black Americans need to look within for solutions before this country can identify a treatment that will work.

African Americans need to intentionally address and recover from slavery so they can recognize that senseless shootings undermine our advancement by draining away talent and our self-respect.

White Americans need to heal, but before they can, they must first admit that this nation will never be free until White Americans manage to detach the slave masters from the past.

Now, with the swearing-in this week of Joe Biden as president and Kamala Harris as vice president, it’s the perfect time for reflection.

It’s the perfect time to act.

(Linda S. Wallace is a free-lance journalist and communication specialist who helps clients develop cross-cultural messages for the workplace and the media. Readers are invited to submit questions on work or personal problems related to race, ethnicity, sexual orientation or physical differences. Address your questions to culturalcoach@aol.com.)

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The New Tri-State Defender

January 21 - 27, 2021

Page 5

RELIGION

The tradition of honoring Dr. King rolls on TSD Newsroom The Tennessee Progressive National Baptist Convention on Monday continued its tradition of saluting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in conjunction with the annual celebration of his birthday.

The celebration was held at Monumental Baptist Church, 704 South Parkway East, where the Rev. Wade Bryant is pastor.

Dr. King was born on Jan. 15, 1929. He was assassinated on April 4, 1968 while standing on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel, which now is the anchor of the National Civil Rights Museum.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which was observed on Monday, was first observed in 1986 and wasn’t celebrated in every state until 2000. The Congressional Black Caucus collected six million signatures to help it become

a federal holiday.

The ongoing coronavirus pandemic affected this year’s observation, with many traditional observances going virtual or making safety protocol adjustments for in-person tributes. At the National Civil Rights Museum, which was closed on Monday, a livestream event showcased Dr. King’s work, how the national holiday came to be and how the museum has celebrated the holiday through the years.

At Monumental, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday committee honored the late Dr. Miriam DeCosta-Willis, who died January 7 at 86. A beloved educator, historian and author, she was the first African-American faculty member at Memphis State University (1966). Rep. G.A. Hardaway accepted the honor on behalf of the family.

Saluting a legacy…

Members of the Memphis Fire Department stand in salute before the family of the late Deputy Director Claude Talford, the first command staff chief appointed during Mayor Dr. Willie W. Herenton’s administration. Services for Mr. Talford, who died Jan. 7, were held at Brown Baptist Church, 7200 Swinnea Rd. in Southaven on Jan. 14. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

The Rev. Dr. L. LaSimba M. Gray Jr. speaks at Monumental Baptist Church, where the annual tradition of saluting Dr. King in association with the national holiday continued on Monday. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley) Deborah Manning Thomas, a fixture at local observations of Dr. King’s legacy, shared her vocal prowess at the celebration at Monumental Baptist Church on Monday.

The New Tri-State Defender

January 21 - 27, 2021

Page 6

TRANSFER OF POWER

Vice President Harris: A new chapter opens in U.S. politics

by Kathleen Ronayne and Alexandra Jaffe The Associated Press

WASHINGTON – Vice President Kamala Harris broke the barrier that has kept men at the top ranks of American power for more than two centuries when she took the oath Wednesday to hold the nation’s second-highest office.

Harris was sworn in as the first female U.S. vice president – and the first Black woman and person of South Asian descent to hold the position – in front of the U.S. Capitol by Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor. Later, she presided as Senate president for the first time to swear in three new Democratic senators, including her replacement.

The moment was steeped in history and significance in more ways than one. She was escorted to the podium by Capitol Police Officer Eugene Goodman, the officer who single-handedly took on a mob of Trump supporters as they tried to breach the Senate floor during the Capitol insurrection that sought to overturn the election results. Harris was wearing clothes from two young, emerging Black designers – a deep purple dress and coat.

After taking the oath of office, a beaming Harris hugged her husband, Douglas Emhoff, and gave President Joe Biden a fist bump.

Her rise is historic in any context, another moment when a stubborn boundary falls away, expanding the idea of what’s possible in American politics. But it’s particularly meaningful because Harris is taking office at a moment when Americans are grappling over institutional racism and confronting a pandemic that has disproportionately devastated Black and brown communities.

Those close to Harris say she’ll bring an im-

portant – and often missing – perspective to the debates on how to overcome the many hurdles facing the new administration.

“In many folks’ lifetimes, we experienced a segregated United States,” said Lateefah Simon, a civil rights advocate and longtime Harris friend and mentee. “You will now have a Black woman who will walk into the White House not as a guest but as a second in command of the free world.”

Harris – the child of immigrants, a stepmother of two and the wife of a Jewish man – “carries an intersectional story of so many Americans who are never seen and heard.”

Harris, 56, moves into the vice presidency just four years after she first came to Washington as a senator from California, where she’d served as attorney general and as San Francisco’s district attorney. She had expected to work with a White House run by Hillary Clinton, but President Donald Trump’s victory quickly scrambled the nation’s capital and set the stage for the rise of a new class of Democratic stars.

After Harris’ own presidential bid fizzled, her rise continued when Biden chose her as his running mate last August. Harris had been a close friend of Beau Biden, his elder son and a former Delaware attorney general who died in 2015 of cancer.

The inauguration activities included nods to her history-making rise and her personal story.

Harris used two Bibles to take the oath, one that belonged to Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, the late civil rights icon whom Harris often cites as inspiration, and Regina Shelton, who helped raise Harris during her childhood in the San Francisco Bay Area.

After the ceremony, she and Emhoff escorted former Vice President Mike Pence and his wife, Karen Pence, out of the Capitol, a gesture that would normally be performed by the incoming

Backed up by three past presidents and first ladies, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris pay respects at Arlington National Cemetary.

(Photos: C-SPAN) and outgoing presidents, but Trump did not attended the inauguration. Harris, Pence and their spouses spoke for several minutes before the Pences departed.

To celebrate the occasion, the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, the nation’s oldest sorority for Black women, which Harris joined at Howard University, declared Wednesday as Soror Kamala D. Harris Day. Members of the sorority watching the celebrations across the country were clad in pearls, as was Harris, and the sorority’s pink and green colors.

“There is a pride I can’t put into words,” said Elizabeth Shelby, a member of the sorority’s Alpha Psi chapter, who watched from her home in Nashville. “It is such a joy to see her rise to this place in our country. It is such a joy to know that she is one of us, that she represents us.”

Biden, in his inaugural address, reflected on the 1913 march for women’s suffrage the day before President Woodrow Wilson’s inauguration, during which some marchers were heckled and attacked.

“Today, we mark the swearing in of the first woman in American history elected to national office, Vice President Kamala Harris. Don’t tell me things can’t change,” Biden said.

As vice president, Harris will expand the

definition of who gets to hold power in American politics, said Martha S. Jones, a professor of history at Johns Hopkins University and the author of “Vanguard: How Black Women Broke Barriers, Won the Vote, and Insisted on Equality for All.” People who want to understand Harris and connect with her will have to learn what it means to graduate from a historically Black college and university rather than an Ivy League school. They will have to understand Harris’ traditions, like the Hindu celebration of Diwali, Jones said.

“Folks are going to have to adapt to her rather than her adapting to them,” Jones said.

Her election to the vice presidency should be just the beginning of putting Black women in leadership positions, Jones said, particularly after the role Black women played in organizing and turning out voters in the November election.

“We will all learn what happens to the kind of capacities and insights of Black women in politics when those capacities and insights are permitted to lead,” Jones said.

(Ronayne reported from Sacramento, California. Associated Press journalist Christine Fernando in Chicago contributed.)

Amanda Gorman gave voice to a generation, and the nation’s hopes

TSD Newsroom

At 22, Amanda Gorman is the youngest inaugural poet ever in the United States. As she read her poem – “The Hill We Climb” – during the inauguration of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, she captured the shadows of darkness and the light that is America.

Gorman, who says she was still finishing her work when the mob stampeded the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6th, joined a small and elite group of poets who have spoken during a presidential inauguration. The list includes Maya Angelou and Robert Frost.

Raised in Los Angeles, her debut book of poetry is about to be released by Viking Books for Young Readers. It will include the inaugural poem.

Amanda Gorman poetically told the nation that “being American is more than a pride we inherit ….” (Screen capture)

“The Hill We Climb” When day comes we ask ourselves, where can we find light in this never-ending shade?

The loss we carry, a sea we must wade We’ve braved the belly of the beast We’ve learned that quiet isn’t always peace And the norms and notions of what just is Isn’t always just-ice And yet the dawn is ours before we knew it Somehow we do it Somehow we’ve weathered and witnessed a nation that isn’t broken but simply unfinished We the successors of a country and a time Where a skinny Black girl descended from slaves and raised by a single mother can dream of becoming president only to find herself reciting for one And yes we are far from polished far from pristine but that doesn’t mean we are striving to form a union that is perfect We are striving to forge a union with purpose To compose a country committed to all cultures, colors, characters and conditions of man And so we lift our gazes not to what stands between us

but what stands before us We close the divide because we know, to put our future first, we must first put our differences aside We lay down our arms so we can reach out our arms to one another We seek harm to none and harmony for all Let the globe, if nothing else, say this is true: That even as we grieved, we grew That even as we hurt, we hoped That even as we tired, we tried That we’ll forever be tied together, victorious Not because we will never again know defeat but because we will never again sow division Scripture tells us to envision that everyone shall sit under their own vine and fig tree And no one shall make them afraid If we’re to live up to our own time Then victory won’t lie in the blade But in all the bridges we’ve made That is the promise to glade The hill we climb If only we dare It’s because being American is more than a pride we inherit, it’s the past we step into and how we repair it We’ve seen a force that would shatter our

nation rather than share it Would destroy our country if it meant delaying democracy And this effort very nearly succeeded But while democracy can be periodically delayed it can never be permanently defeated In this truth in this faith we trust For while we have our eyes on the future history has its eyes on us This is the era of just redemption We feared at its inception We did not feel prepared to be the heirs of such a terrifying hour but within it we found the power to author a new chapter To offer hope and laughter to ourselves So while once we asked, how could we possibly prevail over catastrophe?

Now we assert How could catastrophe possibly prevail over us?

We will not march back to what was but move to what shall be A country that is bruised but whole, benevolent but bold, fierce and free We will not be turned around or interrupted by intimidation because we know our inaction and inertia

will be the inheritance of the next generation Our blunders become their burdens But one thing is certain: If we merge mercy with might, and might with right, then love becomes our legacy and change our children’s birthright So let us leave behind a country better than the one we were left with Every breath from my bronze-pounded chest, we will raise this wounded world into a wondrous one We will rise from the gold-limbed hills of the west, we will rise from the windswept northeast where our forefathers first realized revolution We will rise from the lake-rimmed cities of the midwestern states, we will rise from the sunbaked south We will rebuild, reconcile and recover and every known nook of our nation and every corner called our country, our people diverse and beautiful will emerge, battered and beautiful When day comes we step out of the shade, aflame and unafraid The new dawn blooms as we free it For there is always light, if only we’re brave enough to see it If only we’re brave enough to be it

January 21 - 27, 2021

The New Tri-State Defender

Page 7

TENNESSEE GENERAL ASSEMBLY “You can’t say ‘follow the science’ and keep schools closed.

You can’t say ‘I believe in public education’ and keep schools closed. And you can’t say you’re putting the needs of students first and keep schools closed.”

— Gov. Bill Lee

Bill threatens to withhold funds as school reopening debate heats up

by Laura Faith Kebede and Marta W. Aldrich Chalkbeat Tennessee

In his strongest call yet to reopen school buildings, Gov. Bill Lee on Tuesday criticized education leaders in Memphis and Nashville for keeping their classrooms closed during the pandemic and depending on virtual learning “with no end in sight.”

A new bill backed by the governor would require local districts to provide in-person instruction for at least 70 days this school year and the full 180 days next year, or risk losing all or part of their state funding. If it passes, Tennessee’s two largest school systems would have to reopen quickly to meet that threshold, even as cases of COVID-19 remain high.

Speaking to the legislature as lawmakers launched a special session on education, Lee said students who are learning remotely are learning less than they could, and that families deserve an in-person option.

“You can’t say ‘follow the science’ and keep schools closed. You can’t say ‘I believe in public education’ and keep schools closed,” he said in his brief address. “And you can’t say you’re putting the needs of students first and keep schools closed.”

The Republican governor’s comments and funding proposal filed by House Majority Leader William Lamberth escalated the GOP’s feud with the leaders of Shelby County Schools and Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools. They also drew a quick response from statehouse Democrats and Superintendent Joris Ray, who insists that remote learning is the right decision for Memphis. Numerous other districts have extended their remote learning models because too many teachers are in quarantine.

Gov. Bill Lee addresses state legislators during the opening of the special session on education. (Photo: TN.gov) Ray said state leaders should “step away from privileged podiums and try to understand the many concerns of our students, parents, and teachers.”

“In Memphis and Shelby County, and in other urban areas in America, nearly everyone knows someone who has been seriously ill or died from COVID-19,” he told school board members Tuesday evening. “It is disingenuous to think that the children of poor families need any less protection than children in other settings.”

In a joint statement from House and Senate Democrats, legislators said the “attacks” on Memphis and Nashville school leaders distract from school funding issues

that the legislature is scheduled to address this week.

“We are disappointed in Gov. Lee’s confrontational tone toward school districts that chose virtual learning over in-person classes,” the statement said. “More than 8,000 Tennesseans have died from the coronavirus, including school faculty, and every district has had to make tough calls when balancing student learning with health and safety.”

Last summer, the state education department’s own guidance to reopen schools emphasized that those decisions rest with local leaders who should take into account community spread of the virus. Memphis

and Nashville have led the state in cases of COVID-19, though some rural counties have had a higher percentage of their population get sick.

But Lee implied that leaders in those cities are “settling for the path of least resistance and hiding behind month after month of virtual learning with no end in sight.”

The governor has consistently urged districts to provide an in-person option for families.

In Memphis, most parents of the 90,000 students in district-run schools have said they are not ready to send their children back to classrooms, according to a recent survey.

COMMUNITY The New Tri-State Defender, January 21 - 27, 2021, Page 8

TVA taps Mark Yates for West Regional VP post

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) recently named Black Business Association of Memphis President Mark Yates as its new vice-president of the West Region.

“I have been a part of the community for a long time,” said Yates. “I always want to help. I have been a lifelong stakeholder in civic and non-profit sectors. From these experiences, I believe I bring to bear some very useful tools.”

TVA officials seem to agree.

Jeannette Mills, TVA executive vice-president and chief external relations officer, feels Yates is the right choice for the job.

“The West Region will encompass the service territory in West Tennessee and Mississippi. Mark models the collaborative leadership, community engagement and strong partnership that TVA’s

External Relations values,” Mills said.

According to a Jan. 7 press release, TVA said “one of its long-term, strategic priorities is strengthening the powerful partnerships” it deems critical to regional growth.

The company’s External Relations division said it hopes to build on TVA’s relationship with customers, state and local governments, local power companies, and the communities they serve.

Yates, who has been on the job since last week, said he wants to continue to help build a strong, small business community in Memphis as a new regional VP. “I have worked extensively with small businesses in Memphis,” said Yates. “But I had an incredible team supporting the work. And, this past week, I have discovered that TVA also has an excellent team in place as well. We will continue building relationships by channeling avail-

able resources where they are needed.”

It was not lost on Yates that he could be an effective mediator between TVA and MLGW as the local utility considers leaving TVA for another electricity provider.

Memphis is the federal power company’s largest customer.

“I am hopeful and prayerful,” said Yates. “We want to be more intentional in using our resources to exceed the expectations of the community and our local utilities. I am excited about the division’s commitment, expertise, and energy, no pun intended.”

Yates’ career experience includes: CFO and chief of staff at LeMoyne-Owen College, senior vice-president for Rice Financial Products, senior vice-president of FTN Financial, vice-president for Morgan Keegan, and chief of staff for the offices of former U.S. Rep. Harold Ford Jr. “There are so many positive things underway with

Mark Yates TVA in the West region,” Yates said. “The expertise, potential resources, mission and long-standing experience will be represented in a meaningful way, I am confident.

“We plan to generate interest, growth and opportunity in Memphis and across the region, and we want community groups to play a more active role in TVA’s mission to improve the quality of life for the communities we serve.”

Mills said TVA excited to bring Mark’s local perspective and experience to the West region for greater community engagement.

Yates will be based in Memphis, consistent with TVA’s commitment to increase its presence in the city.

Yates will spend his first few weeks meeting with and getting to know leaders across TVA and the West region.

SCS focuses on Inauguration Day to build bridge to the future TSD Newsroom As the historic inauguration of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris unfolded in the U.S. Capitol, Shelby County Schools teachers and students took it in as a learning experience.

Thousands of SCS students watched the transition of power. They had been primed for its historic elements, including Biden sworn in as the nation’s oldest elected President in history and Harris becoming the first woman, African American and South Asian American to serve as Vice President.

In the days leading up to the inauguration, SCS shared resources for teachers of all grade levels to support conversations, lessons and activities to help students learn about the occasion.

“We wanted students to have the opportunity to explore information sources

Sign of respect…

The legacy of businessman and Black business advocate Melvin Jones was saluted with an honorary street name on Wednesday.

Memphis City Councilman Martavius Jones (not pictured) initiated the honor, which was unanimously approved by council members.

Mr. Jones died on Nov. 15, 2020.

Pictured (l-r) is Mr. Jones’ family: Sarah Jones, Joshua Jones, Caleb Jones, Rachel Jones and Sharon Jones (his wife). (Courtesy photo)

Lessons and reflections showing how SCS teachers and students took part in Inauguration Day were shared on social media with the hashtag #InaugurationDaySCS. (Screen captures) about the Inauguration process and demonstrate historical awareness about the event,” said Supt. Dr. Joris M. Ray. “While all grades may not have a specific correlating standard concerning the Inauguration, there is ample support within the Social Studies curriculum and practices for viewing and/or discussing the Inauguration as a class.”

“We’re preparing students

for their future,” said SCS Board Chair Miska Clay Bibbs. “Events like the Inauguration amplify the importance of real life lessons in the classroom to help mold student minds for life’s uncomfortable conversations whether it be politics, race or religion.”

With reports of possible violence during Inauguration week, educators referred to

their training for social-emotional learning. Ray’s Superintendent’s update, shared on January 11, also contained resources on how to address traumatic events in the classroom.

Lessons and reflections showing how SCS teachers and students took part in Inauguration Day were shared on social media with the hashtag #InaugurationDaySCS.

A case for happiness…

Memphis attorney Memorie White, who has her own private practice in Nashville specializing in real estate, was wed recently to Donnell Johnson in the Skinner Chapel on the campus of Vanderbilt University. She is the daughter of Carol Sanders Gray. The Rev. Dr. L. LaSimba M. Gray Jr., pastor emeritus of New Sardis Baptist Church, 7739 E. Holmes Rd., performed the ceremony. (Courtesy photo)

COVID-19 UPDATE

New county health directive to double capacity for being open

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Shelby County will be operating under a new health directive as of Saturday (Jan. 23).

“Health Directive 17 opens everything up from 25 percent operating capacity to 50 percent,” said Dr. Bruce Randolph, medical director for the Shelby County Health Department.

“All the numbers are trending downward – the number of new cases, case rate, the number of deaths and the number of hospitalizations.”

New cases on Wednesday totaled 237, with no reported deaths. There have been a total of 906,297 COVID-19 cases and 1,140 deaths in Shelby County.

Health Directive 16 will expire on Friday (Jan. 22). The new directive will become effective on Saturday, Jan. 23.

“Our position has always been as things improve, we want to loosen the restrictions,” said Randolph. “We want to have restrictions only where necessary. We walk a delicate balance between physical health and the economic health of a person.

Health is not just being free from disease, it entails social, economic and political status as well.”

Randolph said the key to making the new health directive effective is going to rest largely on personal responsibility.

“The Safer at Home directive we had in place seemed to work,” said Randolph. “But it is clear that either people stayed at home for the most part, or they adhered to the safety measures set out by the guidelines. Now, we are going to need everyone to take personal responsibility for their actions. Continue to wear masks, and avoid gather in crowds.”

Randolph said the new directive is not a license to become lax in the masking, social distancing or gathering in crowds.

“Just because something is open doesn’t mean you need to go,” said Randolph. “We must use sound judgment. Just

because it is legally permissible does not mean it is reasonably advisable.”

Moving forward and for the sake of being safe, health officials say that no person 65 and older should be in a facility where people are not wearing masks. Those who are 40 and under, if exposed to a crowd where people were not masked, should consider themselves infected. They should self-quarantine and avoid being around persons who may be vulnerable.

Health Directive 17 emphasizes the safety measures recommended by the CDC, consistent with those advised by the health department. They are summarized in the following: • Wear a cloth face covering or mask when in public settings, while outside your home in indoor spaces, and anywhere you will be around other people.

• Stay home when you are sick.

• Maintain at least 6-feet of distance from people not of your household.

• Avoid enclosed spaces that have inadequate ventilation.

• Frequently wash your hands with soap and water, or use hand sanitizer (≥60% alcohol).

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects.

• Get tested for the virus that causes COVID-19.

• Get vaccinated (when available) Anyone testing positive for COVID-19 must report this information by calling 901222-MASK, (which is 901222-6275), or by faxing the information to 901-222-8249.

Individuals who test positive for COVID-19 must also notify those who have been in contact with them.

Individuals who test positive for COVID-19 must isolate in accordance with CDC Guidance pertaining to isolation.

For any questions regarding the new health directive or other related COVID-19 issue, call 901-222-9000.

SPORTS The New Tri-State Defender, January 21 - 27, 2021, Page 9

Grizzlies show growth with comeback on MLK Day

a lot about,” Jenkins said.

“We want to be free flowing and Special to The New Tri-State Defender moving the basketball. To come In a time of national political out with only three turnovers, that unrest and the global COVID-19 is huge for us. We struggle when pandemic, Tuesday’s (Jan. 18) an- we turn over the ball and teams nual Martin Luther King Jr. Cele- take advantage of it.”

Ja Morant and Brandon Clarke bration Game had a different feel. each scored 17 points to lead the With only a few hundred people Grizzlies, who had seven players allowed into FedExForum because to score at 10 or more points. of COVID restrictions, the Grizzlies Memphis was without the serbeat the Phoenix Suns 108-104 in vices of Jonas Valančiūnas bethe nationally televised game. cause of COVID protocols. It was It was the second MLK Day the second game in the last three game for Grizzlies head coach in which he has had to sit out beTaylor Jenkins, who said, “to cause of virus contact tracing. coach in this game, to coach in Xavier Tillman, who finished this city is powerful and moving. with 12 points and six, rebounds It is inspirational for me.

“Today is the day to celebrate made his first career start in place Martin Luther King Jr and the of Valančiūnas.

“When (coach Jenkins) told legacy he has led; the life he has me, I was kind of ready for it,” left behind through so many peosaid Tillman, “hoping that it was ple,” Jenkins said. going to happen. So, I was kind “We are more than just basketof prepared for it.” ball players, coaches and fans.

The bench of the Grizzlies, one We are a people that can do more of the best in the NBA, had anothpositive change in this world not er solid game, scoring 44 points. just now but the future.”

“Our bench has been very consisBoth teams got off to a poor tent,” said Morant, who played his start offensively, with the Suns second game since sitting out tworiding a 6-2 run to end the first plus weeks with an injury.

“They are quarter with a 24-18 lead. The stepping up big time for us.

Grizzlies got on track in the sec“I give coach and my teamond quarter taking their second mates a lot of credit for that. I lead of the game (44-43) on a give them credit for when their three-pointer by Gorgui Dieng. number is called, they can go out Memphis had 12 first-half turnthere and contribute.” overs and led 52-48 at halftime.

Jenkins said the way the GrizPhoenix surged after the break zlies finished the game reflected and had the Grizzlies down by the team’s growth. two heading into the final frame.

“It says a lot about our growth.

For the first eight minutes of There is not one way to win a the fourth quarter, the Suns held game in the NBA. Our guys on onto the lead as the Grizzlies kept the defensive end, I can’t stress scrapping. Tyrus Jones’ floater at that enough.

That always gives us the 1:43 mark tied the game at a chance to win ball games.”

98. Grayson Allen’s three pointer with 1:06 remaining gave the NEXT: Grizzlies the lead.

Memphis, which finished the The Grizzlies hit the road for the game with a 16-8 run, only had next four games, playing back-tothree turnovers in the second half. back games at Portland and at Sac“Taking care of the ball is one ramento before returning home to of the things we have been talking face the Chicago Bulls on Jan. 27.

by Terry Davis

Ja Morant comes up with a steal en route to Memphis’ MLK Day victory.

(Photos: Warren Roseborough)

Loose ball.

Earl Lloyd Sports Legacy Symposium proved impactful as a virtual event

by Najee El-Amin

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Three of the top names in the sports realm were honored during the Grizzlies 16th annual Earl Lloyd Sports Legacy Symposium.

The program took place on Martin Luther King Jr. federal holiday on Jan. 18 and was held virtually due to COVID-19 protocol.

This year’s awardees were NBA legend Ray Allen, WNBA Star Nneka Ogwumike and Inside the NBA commentator Kenny Smith.

The voice of the Memphis Grizzlies Pete Pranica hosted the event and began the afternoon by presenting video packages from Grizzlies President Jason Wexler and the National Civil Rights Museum Chief of Marketing Faith Morris.

While their statements were brief, the message inside them held true to the symposium’s motto “Remember.

Celebrate. Act.” “We know 2020 was tough, even more reason to reflect on this man who

was born King.” said Morris. “We celebrate Dr. King’s life…We celebrate this man and how he inspires us, this nation, this world to do better, be better.”

Most people know Allen for his decorated career on the hardwood.

Allen, a deadly three- point marksman, played in the league for 18 seasons, racking up two NBA championships, 10 All-Star game appearances and is immortalized within the NBA’s Hall of Fame.

While these would be sufficient on their own, Allen also prides himself with the work he does off the court.

He is the Founder of the Ray of Hope organization, which specializes in sports and community-related programs for underserved youth.

Allen was appreciative to receive the Sports Legacy Award and mentioned how Dr. King has influenced not only his life, but the whole world.

“We have to always keep in mind what we have been blessed with. And we have to be humble in this endeavor that we have now and make sure that we move forward knowing that

we have to create a legacy for those who come after us,” said Allen. “He created a bridge for us to have and do the things that we can do in this world that we all live together today.”

Ogwumike was the first overall pick in the 2012 WNBA draft and went on to earn the league’s Rookie of the Year Award that same season.

The proud first-generation Nigerian-American baller also has a WNBA championship under her belt, as well as a 2016 league MVP award.

The only recipient this year to be actively playing, Ogwumike heads the WNBA’s Player Association and is a frequent advocate for equality and health.

Asked about her community contributions, Ogwumike said how proud she is of her fellow players within the association.

“We’ve truly learned as a group of women how to educate ourselves, how to mobilize, how to declare our value in ways that serve as an example to the communities that follow us and the communities that don’t know

Pete Pranica, the voice of the Memphis Grizzlies, moderated the 16th annual Earl Lloyd Sports Legacy Symposium that featured (top to bottom) NBA legend Ray Allen, WNBA Star Nneka Ogwumike and “Inside the NBA” commentator Kenny Smith. (Screen capture) us,” said Ogwumike.

Smith is most recognizable in his role as a sports broadcaster on TNT, but decades ago he won two NBA titles with the Houston Rockets.

Smith’s role in the Aim High Foundation helps direct youth down a positive path by incorporating basketball and academics into their lives.

Smith and Pranica discussed one of the most iconic moments in Smith’s years on television that came when Smith walked off the set of “Inside the NBA” as a result of the Jacob Blake Jr. shooting.

Blake is the Kenosha, Wisconsin

man shot seven times in the back by a Kenosha police officer on Aug. 23 as he walked to his car, where his three children were seated. The shooting left him paralyzed from the waist down.

The Kenosha police officer responsible for the shooting will not be charged, Kenosha County District Attorney Michael Graveley announced on Jan. 5.

“I just stopped and said today can’t be the same. Everything can’t feel the same.” said Smith.

“They called me, right afterward and he (Jacob Blake Sr.) was crying.

Saying he felt empowered by what I had done for his son.”

January 21 - 27, 2021

The New Tri-State Defender

Page 10

SPORTS

Coriah Beck is drawing upon a lifetime of support from her father, former University of Arkansas star and Fairley High School grad Corey Beck, as she pursues her hoop dreams at the UofM. (Courtesy photo)

Daughter like father: Tigers guard Beck determined to be successful on the court

by Liaudwin Seaberry Jr.

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Throughout her freshman year, Lady Tigers guard Coriah Beck has spent time improving upon her game.

Beck’s experiences on the college court includes just eight games as of Wednesday (Jan. 20), but during that period she has absorbed a valuable number of lessons.

She has learned to harness her talents on the court, and her contributions to the Lady Tigers have caught the attention of longtime head coach Melissa McFerrin.

However, there’s another person who has been in her corner for her entire life — her father Corey Beck.

The elder Beck, a former local hoops star at Fairley High School and a national champion at the University of Arkansas, instilled hard work and determination into his daughter from a young age.

The hard work and hours working on her craft paid off for the younger Beck, as her maturity and determination to earn playing time as a freshman impressed the hardnosed McFerrin.

Beck appreciates the lessons taught by her father and credits him for pushing her to perform at the highest level.

“I talk with my father after every game, and he tells me the things I did right and the things I need to improve upon,” Beck said. “Coming from a basketball back-

ground has certainly benefited me on the court.”

Beck averages around six points a contest, which may not seem like a lot, but her contributions are felt beyond what the statistics show. Teammates like sophomore point Aerial Wilson took notice of Beck’s confidence and scrappy play from the outset.

“Coriah plays really hard and it’s been a pleasure playing with her,” Wilson said.

“The way she plays as a freshman is really good, and her energy rubs off on the rest of the team.”

McFerren added, “I like the way that Coriah has come in and played hard from the outset. She has provided energy and solid

defense off the bench, and her selflessness on the court is uncommon for a freshman.”

A four-star recruit from Fayetteville High School, Beck led her team to the 2020 Arkansas 6A state tournament, but it was canceled due to the coronavirus.

She decided to bring her talents to Memphis and, despite the team possessing a 2-7 record, Beck’s mindset refuses to allow her to get dismayed by team results.

“College basketball has shown me that I have to remain positive and focused on my game, regardless of wins and losses,” Beck said. “Winning is important to me, but getting better every game and going all in means a lot to me as well.”

Road trip to Tulsa amounts to one-point loss for Tigers

by Terry Davis

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

TULSA, Okla – Memphis outscored Tulsa by six points in the first half and lost by one point, which means not enough things went the Tigers’ way down the stretch for them to claim the win on the road.

Playing their first game since Dec. 29 because of coronavirus-forced cancellations, the Tigers (6-5, 2-2) could not withstand the Golden Hurricane (8-4, 5-2) push to victory in the second half.

“We came out like we were ready. We played a Terry good first half. We should Davis have been up more,” said Memphis head coach Penny Hardaway.

“Being on the road playing a good team in our conference, being up six at half time, that was pretty good. But we knew they were going to make the adjustments in the second half and we just didn’t meet it.”

The Tigers, who entered the game 0-5 at the Reynolds Center against current Tulsa head coach Frank Haith, sported a new starting five: Alex Lomax, Lester Quinones, D.J. Jeffries, DeAndre Williams, and Moussa Cissé. It was Memphis’ sixth different starting lineup in 11 games this season. For Lomax, it was his first start since the first three games of the season.

Damien Baugh was forced to sit out because of concussion protocols.

Memphis, which led 32-26 at halftime, got hit with a 12-6 Tulsa run in the first five minutes

Malcolm Dandridge scored 10 points and grabbed 10 rebounds in his best performance of the season. of the second half to tie the game at 38. Memphis responded with a 6-0 run to regain the lead and when Lomax hit two free throws with 7:36 remaining, the Tigers led 49-45.

The free throw line was a difference maker.

Tulsa went to the line 26 times, connecting on 15. The Tigers were 9 of 15.

“Tough game, we knew it was going to be a tough game on the road,” said Hardaway. “We came in with a great game plan. About 35 minutes we did really well. Then that five-minute span we just lost it. Same plays they had been running the entire game. They didn’t put in any wrinkles. They just got a little tougher.”

Calling the game “a learning experience,” Hardaway said, “We have to continue to do it together. The time we had off was well spent.

DeAndre Williams eyes a path forward. (Photos: Terry Davis) We’re not ready to win those types of games yet because you got to be tough, gotta put attention to details, you gotta get stops when you gotta get stops. Guys gotta make shots when it’s time to make shots.”

Tigers did get a productive game from Malcolm Dandridge with 10 points and 10 rebounds. It was his first career double-double and a career high in rebounds. With Cissé struggling to defend the pick and roll, Hardaway turned to Dandridge and got what he said was Dandridge’s best game of the year.

“Next man up; you can’t feel sorry for anybody,” Hardaway said. “You gotta do your job.

I was really proud of Malcolm’s performance tonight.”

Memphis was led by Nolley with 13 points followed by Lester Quinones with 12 The offense, however, continues as a source

of frustration. “You can’t be four for 15 from three and nine for 15 from the free-throw line.

Every game those numbers look like that or worse,” said Hardaway.

Memphis had 21 turnovers to Tulsa’s 14.

“Guys have got to move the ball,” Hardaway said. “When you’re playing against a zone, they’re swarming everything in the paint.

They’ve got active hands. … We’ve got to do more of passing the ball and cutting away. …

We’re trying to dribble through traffic and that traffic is causing us to make turnovers.”

NEXT UP: Memphis is set to host Wichita State (8-3, 4-1) at 6 p.m. on Thursday. The game can be seen on ESPN2.

January 21 - 27, 2021

The New Tri-State Defender

Page 11

CLASSIFIEDS Asal LLC dba The Candler Event Hall and Sports Bar located at 3896 Lamar Avenue, Memphis, TN has applied for a permit to sell low-gravity beer at the above-referenced location and is seeking a permit to authorize same.

LEGAL NOTICE Request for Bids RFB Number 21-0006 3505 TCHULAHOMA RD ROOF REPLACEMENT Sealed bids for 3505 Tchulahoma Rd Roof Replacement will be received by the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority (Authority), Procurement Department, Memphis International Airport, 4150 Louis Carruthers Drive, Memphis, TN 38118, until 2:00 PM local time, on March 4, 2021. Responses will be opened and publicly read thirty (30) minutes after the response deadline via zoom.

Join Zoom meeting: https://zoom.us/j/99519683372?pwd=UUptdHdNd0JlYXFrWHlXT2hyTkhkdz09 Meeting ID: 995 1968 3372 Passcode: 951153 One tap mobile +13017158592 A complete Request for Bids Packet with submittal instructions, additional data, and response format may be found on the Authority’s website on or after January 19, 2021.

A pre-bid meeting will be held February 3, 2021 at 11:00a.m. via phone/video conferencing (Link: Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom. us/j/95368379720?pwd=YTM0OGRwVmw5NC9FaTFZQ0hJUzd5QT09 Meeting ID: 953 6837 9720 Passcode: 478482 One tap mobile +1 301 715 8592 US All Bidders are responsible for checking the Authority’s website up to the submission deadline for any updates, addenda or additional information.

In accordance with the Authority’s purchasing policies, the Authority will give a preference to businesses located in Shelby County, Tennessee when awarding contracts and making purchases, unless prohibited by law. The successful Bidder must sign a contract with the Authority that includes Federal Aviation Administration provisions, if applicable, regarding the Buy American Preference, Foreign Trade Restriction, Davis-Bacon, Affirmative Action, Debarment and Suspension, and DrugFree Workplace, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

The Authority reserves the right to reject any or all responses to this Request for Bids in whole or in part; to waive any informalities, technicalities, or omissions related to this Request for Bids and to reject responses on any other basis authorized by the Authority’s purchasing policies.

The Authority is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination based on the grounds of age, race, sex, color, national origin, disability, marital status, military service, or sexual orientation in its hiring and employment practices and in the admission to, access to, or operation of its programs, services, and activities.

By order of: Scott A. Brockman, A.A.E. President and CEO Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority NOTICE TO BIDDERS Shelby County Government has issued Sealed Bid number I000648, CJC Roof Replacement, 201 Poplar. Information regarding this Bid is located on the County’s website at www. shelbycountytn.gov . At the top of the home page, click on the dropdown box under “Business”, Click on “Purchasing” and “Bids” to locate the name of the above described Sealed Bid. SEALED BID I000648 DUE DATE THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18TH, 2021 @ 2:00 PM CST (SB-I000648) CJC ROOF REPLACEMENT, 201 POPLAR All bids will be opened and read

THE NEW TRI-STATE DEFENDER CLASSIFIEDS 1509 Madison Ave. Memphis, TN 38104 PH (901) 523-1818 FAX (901) 578-5037 HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

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via teleconference by Shelby County Government at the time mentioned above. Please use the following information to join the bid opening:

584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400

To join by phone, call the necessary numbers below: External: +19012222777 Internal: 22777 Meeting ID: 9012222260# Meeting PIN: 06222#

NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT

Voluntary Pre-Bid Meeting – All interested respondents are invited to participate in this meeting via teleconference on February 3rd, 2021 at 9:30 am (CST). Please use the following information to join the pre-bid meeting: To join by phone, call the necessary numbers below: External: +19012222777 Internal: 22777 Meeting ID: 9012222260# Meeting PIN: 06222# Respondents may also contact Shelby County for information at the following numbers, TTY Number (901) 222-2301 or for information in Spanish 901-2224289. Shelby County is an equal opportunity affirmative action employer, drug-free, and with policies of non-discrimination on the basis of race, sex, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or military service. Shelby County encourages participation from WBE, MBE, LOSB, and Section 3 firms and vendors under this CDBG-NDR response.

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: Alvina Avery Tax Parcel #: 04105500000240 Tax Sale #: 1604 Price Offered: $100.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days 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 February 16, 2021, 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 (901)222-2400

By order of LEE HARRIS, MAYOR SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Vin #1LNHM82W53Y636468 Make Lincoln Town Car sedan 4dr The year 2003 You can contact Jeralean Allen at 9013055358

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: Darryle A. Rogers Tax Parcel #: 04201200000210 Tax Sale #: 1603 Price Offered: $800.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 1:30 p.m. on February 19, 2021, 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

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: Tamara Strickland Tax Parcel #: 06012100000160 Tax Sale #: 1101 Price Offered: $300.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 2:30 p.m. on February 18, 2021, 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 (901)222-2400 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 fol-

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lowing property: Christopher Franceschi Tax Parcel #: 06011400000250 Tax Sale #: 1002 Price Offered: $100.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice.

If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 2:00 p.m. on March 4, 2021, 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 (901)222-2400 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: Christopher Franceschi Tax Parcel #: 06011400000280 Tax Sale #: 1301 Price Offered: $375.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice.

If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 1:30 p.m. on March 3, 2021, 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 (901)222-2400 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: Christopher Franceschi Tax Parcel #: 06011400000260 Tax Sale #: 1101 Price Offered: $100.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days 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 4, 2021, 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 (901)222-2400 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: Kenneth R. Smith, Jr. and Tiffany Shannon-Smith Tax Parcel #: 04103400000300 Tax Sale #: 1603 Price Offered: $800.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days 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 February 15, 2021, 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 (901)222-2400 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: Kenneth R. Smith, Jr. and Tiffany Shannon-Smith Tax Parcel #: 04103300000410 Tax Sale #: 1501 Price Offered: $840.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days 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 February 15, 2021, 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 (901)222-2400 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: Kenneth R. Smith, Jr. and Tiffany Shannon-Smith Tax Parcel #: 04103300000530 Tax Sale #: 1203 Price Offered: $300.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher,

may be submitted within Ten (10) working days 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 February 15, 2021, 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 (901)222-2400 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: Kenneth R. Smith, Jr. and Tiffany Shannon-Smith Tax Parcel #: 02111800000320 Tax Sale #: 1603 Price Offered: $500.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days 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 February 15, 2021, 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 (901)222-2400 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: Kenneth R. Smith Tax Parcel #: 04203800000650 Tax Sale #: 1004 Price Offered: $150.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days 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 February 15, 2021, 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 (901)222-2400

The New Tri-State Defender

January 21 - 27, 2021

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