The New Tri-State Defender – June 25 - July 1, 2020 by The Tri-State Defender

Get TSD news, online anytime at TSDMemphis.com

June 25 - July 1, 2020

VOL. 69, No. 26

www.tsdmemphis.com

$1.00

TWIN PANDEMICS

Shelby County oﬃcially ill with the pandemic of racism “Young people aren’t wearing masks out in public. COVID-19’s new cases are growing among the younger set. I had to do something,” said Memphis rapper Al Kapone about linking up with the Mask Up Memphis campaign. (Courtesy photo)

Rapper Al Kapone ‘putting on for the city’ with ‘Mask Up Memphis’ by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Legally speaking… No stranger to protests as a member of the civil-rights-movement-renowned Lee family, attorney Peggy Jane Lee (above) was among about 200 lawyers and supporters that rallied and marched downtown on Wednesday morning. Organized by the Ben F. Jones Chapter of the National Bar Association, the Memphis Bar Association and the Association for Women Attorneys, the march was a way of saying time is up for racism in the community, including the legal system. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises)

by Erica R. Williams Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Racism is now a pandemic in Shelby County. The pronouncement was made after Shelby County Board of Commissioners adopted a resolution to combat the problem with specific policies, Monday (June 22). The measure, written by Commissioner Tami Sawyer, spells out that the purpose of declaring race a pandemic is to “unequivocally defend minorities and enact polices that eradicate the effects of systemic racism affecting Black people, and other minorities, throughout Shelby County.” The resolution’s approval comes on the heels of national civil unrest after the death of George Floyd, a 46-year-old Black man killed by a white Minneapolis police officer May 25. The global outrage over Floyd’s death and the deaths of other unarmed Black men and women by police officers has put a laser focus on systemic racial issues affecting African Americans. Sawyer pointed to some of the issues in the resolution, including health disparities highlighted during the current COVID-19 health

Underground hip hop Memphis rapper Al Kapone has added his persona to the mix of partners in a new campaign targeting young Memphians to wear a mask as the COVID-19 virus continues to surge. “I had to try to help my city, Memphis, Tenn.,” Kapone said. “I’ve got to put on for my city. Young people aren’t wearing masks out in public. COVID-19’s new cases are growing among the younger set. I had to do something.” That “something” was a featured appearance Monday afternoon at the Whitehaven Public Library to kick oﬀ “Mask Up Memphis” to encourage young people to comply with wearing masks when they are in a crowd or other public place. “During the quarantine, I would get in my car and just drive around observing,” Kapone said. “I noticed a lot of people were not wearing masks for whatever reason, but we run the highest risk of contracting the coronavirus now, especially being African American.” Kapone joined State Rep. Karen Camper (D-87) and local elected oﬃcials, who gave the idea “big ups” and pledged sponsorship for the campaign. Both Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland and Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris were on hand to show their support. At a recent news conference, Jon McCullers, chair of infectious diseases at UTHSC

SEE RACE ON PAGE 2

SEE MASK ON PAGE 2

TVA: Savings projections don’t match reality about MLGW ﬁnding a new power partner by Dena Owens Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Jeﬀ Lyash (Photo: Karanja A. Ajanaku)

Jeﬀ Lyash, president/CEO of Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), says the costs for Memphis Light, Gas & Water (MLGW) Division to switch to a new electric supplier is underestimated by $261 million in extra annual costs. Electric bills could rise more than 20 percent under this scenario, he said. In a letter dated Tuesday, June 23 to MLGW President/CEO J.T.

Young, Lyash said costs not reﬂected in the draft report by Siemens consultants would void any future savings for MLGW. The draft report, issued to MLGW in May as the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), compared options for supplying electricity to customers over the next 20 years. The IRP concludes that switching from TVA to Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) could save MLGW $150 million to $200 million annually versus a TVA sav-

ings of $120 million per year. Earlier reports by groups in support of switching to a new electric supplier indicated a savings from $453 million $547 million annually. MISO supplies electricity to 15 states across the U.S., plus Canada, and is larger than TVA, which supplies power to 10 million people in seven states. Memphis is TVA’s largest customer. The IRP recommends that MLGW generate some of its own electric power to reduce dependence on outside sourc-

es and increase its savings capacity. TVA estimated the cost for MLGW to construct electric power and transmission at $8 billion. “Although we are aligned with much of the analysis, we believe that critical assumptions, such as construction costs and schedules, capital recovery costs and ongoing operating expenses are understated in the IRP,” Lyash said in the letter. He also says the plan’s projected

SEE TVA ON PAGE 2

The New Tri-State Defender

June 25 - July 1, 2020

Page 2

NEWS

The Mask Up Campaign has big-time backers, including State. Rep. Karen Camper (right), State Sen. Raumesh Akbari and Grizz, the oﬃcial mascot of the Memphis Grizzlies. (Courtesy photo)

MASK CONTINUED FROM FRONT

United States,” Sawyer said in defense of the resolution. She also pointed to Shelby County Health Director Dr. Alisa H a u s h a l t e r ’s Amber agreement Mills on the issue. Haushalter has publicly noted that it is “accurate to call racism a pandemic.” While most commissioners were in agreement with the resolution, Commissioner Amber Mills, who pointed out that she’d discussed the notion with people of all races within her district, said she fears it will drive businesses away from the county. “Has the economic impact of this been considered?” she asked. Sawyer oﬀered a rebuttal. “It doesn’t drive businesses away to name something that you already know is true and that we’re working towards in reducing and solving every day,” she said. “What it does allow us to do is be creative and innovative in addressing the racism that exists in our policies and actions in Shelby County and in the municipalities and the city of Memphis.” The resolution sets a backdrop of Jim Crow laws and is fueled with

references of police brutality that underscore the deaths of Eric Garner, Tamir Rice, Mike Brown and others who have been killed by police in other states. Sawyer said Shelby County is not excluded from the racial discrimination. “These aren’t hot ticket items or things in the news,” she said. “As I’ve stated week after week, these are the lives that we live as Black people in this city. These are the lives that Brown people are living in this city and county. These are the lives that Asian Americans are living in the city and county.” The resolution passed with opposition from only two commissioners – Mills and Mark Billingsley, who chairs the board. Commissioner Brandon Morrison was not present for voting. Also on Monday, the commission adopted “8 Can’t Wait,” an initiative that seeks to reduce the use of police force. Based on a national initiative, the resolution was written in conjunction with the Memphis City Council. The commission also voted to make Juneteenth (June 19) an oﬃcial paid holiday for county employees, beginning in 2021. With three key resolutions passing that speciﬁcally target minorities and systemic racism, Sawyer referred to the measures as “moving the needle in racial equity.”

and chief pediatrician at Le Bonheur hospital said that, instead of seeing cases concentrated among older adults in communal living facilities, “We’re now seeing much younger people coming to the hospital, many of them in their 20s and 30s, and in many cases do not have any chronic conditions or co-mobordities.” He called the changing pattern “very worrisome.” Strickland expressed hope that the program, also called “Mask Up and Live,” will “change the hearts and minds” of those who were not wearing masks. Harris said Mask Up was important because “we need to stop it (the coronavirus) right where it is.” The initiative models a similar program in Chicago called Mask Up and Live. A Chicago legislator came up with the idea and asked Chicago-based rapper Twista to lend his name and inﬂuence to reach young African Americans who were not wearing masks. “Young people in our community are not wearing masks, and I thought we could see great results from a program like that,” said Camper. “I used to work with a nonproﬁt, and Kapone participated with our children, producing music and just spending time with them and having fun.” Camper and Kapone are not such unlikely allies. Kapone said he, like Camper, has been concerned with the rising number of new cases among young people. When Kapone was asked to lend his name to the local movement, he “had to do it.” He continued, “I feel I have to do my part and let everyone know that they have access to free masks. We

ized – and TVA’s plan is presented – Young is expected to make a recommendation to the MLGW board of directors in late July or early August. Switching to MISO would end MLGW’s 80-year partnership. TVA maintains that it provides the third lowest rates in the nation among its peers and touts a $72 million investment in Memphis-area infrastructure, producing 40,000 jobs. The federally-owned utility said its power supply is 55 percent carbon-free and provides more renewable energy than MISO or any South-

eastern U.S. utility company. Public opinions about the draft IRP have ensued in recent weeks. The invitation for opinions continues through early July. Scott Banbury, conservation program coordinator for the Sierra Club’s Chickasaw Group, has contributed a voice to the power issue. Banbury’s group represents 1,000 members in Memphis and West Tennessee. “We’ll support whatever supplier adopts renewable energy providing the greatest savings for Memphis,” he said. “The savings should come back to

energy-burdened customers. Some people pay over 25 percent of their income on energy bills.” Banbury stresses the need for more funding in low-income energy eﬃciency programs. Pearl Eva Walker, organizer of Memphis Has the Power, said TVA is downplaying the potential savings shown by several studies in recent years, including the IRP. “There is no basis for TVA’s numbers,” Walker said regarding TVA’s response to the IRP. “TVA charges Memphians about

At a rally last month on the plaza of the National Civil Rights Museum, Shelby County Commissioner Tami Sawyer pledged to support protesters, saying, “We can push the police from the outside and from the inside.” (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender Archives)

RACE CONTINUED FROM FRONT crisis. The resolution includes this reference: “Across the country, demonstrators are protesting the death of George Floyd and the ongoing systemic racism woven into the fabric of the United States. The protests come in the middle of an unprecedented pandemic disproportionately killing people of color -- particular Black Americans and the close proximity of people protesting likely to create a spike in Coronavirus infections.” Health oﬃcials have found that COVID-19 aﬀects African Americans at strikingly disproportionate rates. In Shelby County, more than 8,000 people have tested positive for COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic. Nearly 60 percent of the cases are African Americans. The racial demographic also counts for approximately 60 percent of fatalities, while White Shelby County residents account for 32 percent. “Public health organizations such as the American Psychiatric Association, American Pediatric Association, American Physician’s Association -- three major medical organization have said that racism is a public health crisis and a pandemic in the

TVA CONTINUED FROM FRONT TVA rate increases over the next 20 years are overestimated by $55 million. TVA’s base rate would not change over the next 10 years, according to Lyash. TVA is expected to present its own 20-year plan to MLGW by early July. That report will include data calculations and details, and promises an economic development component geared toward urban core neighborhoods. Once the IRP draft report is ﬁnal-

have to get serious about this virus. “I remember when it ﬁrst hit, it was going around that our community couldn’t get it. But that wasn’t true. We’re the most likely to get COVID-19.” Kapone said as he has talked to people about wearing their masks to stay safe. The feedback he has gotten is that people don’t know they have access to free masks, they aren’t really taking it seriously or they’re having such a hard time that they feel it doesn’t matter one way or the other. “I want to stress to young people that we need to use every tool at our disposal. And just like our grandparents used to say, ‘Better safe than sorry.’ I think, too, the use of a mask has been misunderstood.” Kapone said some people think they are being asked to wear the mask every waking moment. Some of the problem may be to just tell people what they need to know. “Disposable masks can’t be worn all week,” he explained. “Cloth masks should be washed because bacteria can grow in those masks. Balance is the key. You don’t need to wear a mask at home, only in public spaces and when you are in a crowd. We shouldn’t just assume everybody knows these things.” Kapone, a native Memphian, whose given name is Alphonzo Bailey, gained cult status in the 1990s underground scene with urban youth. Mainstream success came with the Memphis-made 2005 blockbuster movie, “Hustle & Flow.” Kapone remains a music favorite by continuing to encourage and help young, upcoming rappers. “I stay reppin’ for my city, putting on for my city,” Kapone said. “Memphis, Tenn.—Memphis, Tenn.” a billion dollars per year and we’re their largest customer. So, it’s no surprise that TVA says that Memphians should keep buying power from them despite that Memphis has the highest energy burden in the country.” The IRP says MLGW should extend request for proposals (RFPs) to energy suppliers to conﬁrm Siemens’ 20-year energy cost estimates. Walker says this step must and will be taken before any decisions are made. “We’ll just have to wait on the RFPs to see what the market will bear.

We’re Known By the Money you Keep!

ONLINE SHOPPING, PICKUP & DELIVERY MIDTOWN, WHITEHAVEN AND SOUTH THIRD ST. DAILY • 10 AM - 7 PM * Delivery up to 6 mile radius from each store. $10 flat delivery fee waved on first order for first time Cash Saver online shopper. Checkout total must be greater than $15 for pickup and delivery.

Pork Spare Ribs

USDA Inspected, Frozen Medium Size

$ 49 Lb.

Plus 10% Added at Checkout

Circle B

King Cotton

43-44 Oz. Pkg., All Varieties

16 Oz. Pkg., Plump ‘N Tender

Smoked Sausage

$ 67

Plus 10% Added at Checkout

Franks

82¢

Plus 10% Added at Checkout

PRICES GOOD JUNE 24, 2020 - JULY 7, 2020 MIDTOWN: WHITEHAVEN: SOUTH MEMPHIS: 1620 Madison Ave. 4049 Elvis Presley Blvd. 1977 S. Third St. See the Memphis Cash Saver grocery ad at memphiscashsaver.com

The New Tri-State Defender

June 25 - July 1, 2020

Page 3

Being together is more important than ever. That’s why you can count on us to be by your side. Because serving you is our mission. And being right here for you is the promise we’re keeping.

©BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, Inc., an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.

BCBS002575_Mrr_2020BrandPrint_TriStateDefender_11x20.5.indd 1

5/19/20 1:47 PM

PERSPECTIVE The New Tri-State Defender, June 25 - July 1, 2020, Page 4

THE CULTURAL COACH

Rebuilding, repairing education systems must be in tandem with dismantling economic, social injustices by Tosha Downey Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Bubba Wallace has found plenty of support from NASCAR drivers and others in the sport in response to his push to get Confederate ﬂags removed from NASCAR events and racing promoted to diverse audiences. (Photo: Twitter)

Calling all allies: This is your moment

by Linda S. Wallace Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Being a true cultural ally is not like having a sleepover where friends come together, talk, and then return to their separate lives in the morning. It is more like a steep climb up a rocky hill. fraught with danger, some personal risk, and narrow paths that can make anyone feel isolated and lonely. Without true allies, people of color may never reach that mountaintop. So, listen up. If you are out there painting half your face black to show outward solidarity with Black Lives Matter, you are not a true ally. If you post a sign or video of yourself stating that you stand with Black Lives Matter – and do nothing else-you are not a true ally either. If you are adding Black Lives Matters dinner specials to your menu or selling trendy T-shirts or face masks, really? These are actions an opportunist might take, not a friend. A true ally is the company or individual who, right now, is huddled together to review employment practices and determine if young people of color face hidden, perhaps unintended, barriers in the hiring process. Allies are ones who are courageous enough to ask themselves the tough questions. Among them: • Can a young person of color who is housing insecure ﬁll out an employment application at the company? • Can he/she/they get a job if they have no permanent address? (A considerable number of young people are couch surﬁng, and moving frequently from place to place.) • Can a young person of color who re-

lies on public transportation reach your company to get to work? You see, many young African Americans out there protesting believe your company doesn’t value them. Linda S. They fear-even if Wallace they do all the things society has told them to do-they are not going to get a shot at a job paying good salaries and full benefits or offering meaningful opportunity. They desperately need you to open doors for them as you march with them. And to use your voice to help amplify their challenges. In the past week, we have witnessed the power of allies many times. A little girl in Arlington, Va., wrote anti-racism messages in chalk near her home only to have city maintenance workers show up and wash them away. A city policy prohibits graffiti. When neighbors heard what happened they came out and held a chalk partywhere everyone wrote anti-racism messages together including one in red, white and blue that read: “Wash it . . . We’ll do it again.” According to the Washington Post, Arlington now is considering a review of its graffiti policy, which requires removal of all unauthorized messages regardless of content. Then we had Bubba Wallace, the African American NASCAR driver who has led the movement to remove confederate flags at NASCAR events and promote the sport to diverse audiences. After a noose was found in his garage stall at Talladega Superspeedway, his fellow drivers stood beside him in a show

of support and followed his car onto the track. The message was unmistakable : You won’t divide us. (On Tuesday, the Federal Bureau of Investigation announced no hate crime had been committed. Agents said they determined a pull rope, fashioned like a noose, had been in the stall as early as September.) Allyship has taken on new importance and a higher level of moral responsibility. So allies I thought I might propose a few simple rules: • Before you get out in public to help ﬁnd solutions, make certain you are not part of the problem. Do a cultural audit (Visit https://bit.ly/3hVHLcb.) to determine if your actions align with your cause. • Make certain you are in it for the long haul before you go public. People in my generation know what it is like to have opportunity promised, and dreams denied. It leads to a generation of walking wounded, which leads to anger, division and even violence down the line. • Amplify the voices of the Bubba Wallaces of the world who seek to make an industry better by making it more appealing and diverse. They are the visionaries who see the clearest path forward. Allies, this is your moment. People who ﬁght injustice around the world are counting on you. Don’t let us down. (Linda S. Wallace is The Cultural Coach. Contact her at theculturalcoach@aol.com.)

I was raised in South Memphis, in 38126 to be exact. Then and now it has been the city’s poorest community. A pandemic that required global rest and a series of police killings that has caused global unrest has made my community, and many like it, worse. Tosha Yet when your life histoDowney ry and your life’s work have a chance to intersect, you take that chance and make change. You see, my day job is to give away money! I work in philanthropy. I’m an officer at the Memphis Education Fund where we have always focused on education as justice; but now we have had to switch directions to help Memphis’ most challenged families. You can’t do business as usual in a pandemic and in the midst of civil unrest – not if you’re serious. Our first move was to give families money. Typically, we give grants to organizations – not this time. Shifting the money felt right for me for one reason – my dad. William Earl Downey was the first “poor” philanthropist I knew – a true giver. He was also a Black man born in the 50’s who knew the dangers of police interactions even in peaceful protest. My dad was everything to me and even more of that to the community: Little League coach, Deacon, brother, uncle, friend, BBQ Champion, and Mayor of South Memphis. He was a pillar of our community. He reminded me often that to make my Black life valuable I had to be mannerable, smart, accomplished, hard-working, and respectable. I also had to “look out for people” i.e. take care of them. Hungry? We always had a “little extra” food at the house. Going through a hard time? We always had a “few extra dollars” to help. Need a place to stay? We always had a “little extra room” even in 1, 2, or 3 bedrooms. He didn’t talk a lot about what you do to help people, he just did it. So can you imagine what it feels like to look out your screen door as a little girl and see that the police have your dad sitting on a curb and handcuffed? For outstanding child support. For me? The child that he was supporting? That had to be a misunderstanding, right? But to watch them take him to jail. In a police car. Moments before, the men were gathered after a day of work. Relaxing. Laughing. Listening to music. When the police come to cruise – not for a call, the mood changes. I.D. gets shown. Bodies get sprawled on cars. Searches happen. Usually, someone goes to jail. That day, it was my dad. I knew to be quiet and not protest through the door. I just cried at how wrong it all felt. My veteran, rule-following, respectable daddy was hauled off to jail. A few frantic calls later, my mom had bail money. I don’t recall if he spent an hour or a day locked up, but it felt like eternity. No permanent charges were filed. The courts worked out the error. The damage was done though. Officers were no longer “friendly.” They were feared—even when you weren’t doing anything wrong – just being, Black. These memories of my dad as a giver, rule-follower, and civil rights activist who pushed me to be respectable, created the backdrop for why I do this work alongside a respectable, Harvard educated, Black man who was also raised in Memphis. He is raising a black son, homeschooling him in a pandemic, and struggling with when is the right time to talk to him about racism, the police, and how being good just is not enough. Rebuilding and repairing education systems must happen in tandem with dismantling the economic and social injustices that a pandemic and black deaths at the hands of police have exposed. This time of unrest has taught us enduring lessons. We all have a role to play in helping children to become the best version of themselves in a world willing to give them real opportunities to live fully. (Tosha Downey is the director of Advocacy for the Memphis Education Fund.)

Information • Inspiration • Elevation Published by Best Media Properties, Inc. SUBSCRIPTIONS: Mailed subscriptions to The New Tri-State Defender are available upon request. One Year, $35.00; Two Years, $60.00. Request can be emailed to subscriptions@tsdmemphis.com or mailed to Subscriptions, The New TriState Defender, 203 Beale Street, Suite 200, Memphis, TN, 38103. Delivery may take one week. President Calvin Anderson Associate Publisher/ Executive Editor Karanja A. Ajanaku

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The New Tri-State Defender, 203 Beale Street, Suite 200, Memphis, TN, 38103. GENERAL INFORMATION: Any and all inquiries may be submitted in writing by calling (901) 523-1818 or by email. TELEPHONE: Editorial, administration, display advertising, classiﬁed advertising: (901) 523-1818. Fax: (901) 578-5037. The New Tri-State Defender (USPS 780-220) is published weekly by Best Media Properties, Inc., 203 Beale Street, Suite 200, Memphis, TN 38103. Second-class postage paid in Memphis, TN.

The New Tri-State Defender

June 25 - July 1, 2020

Page 5

RELIGION

Pastors reach across racial divide for common ground, conciliation by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Pastor Daniel Johnson, associate pastor of Congregational Formation and Missions at Second Baptist Church in East Memphis, saw an opportunity to reach outside the church walls and make new friends on the other side of town. This was years before the horriﬁc video of George Floyd’s, who was killed by a Minneapolis police oﬃcer, last moments went viral. “Back in 2015, I think it was, a pastor friend in France told me a gospel choir from their church would be in the United States,” said Johnson. “They were on their way to St. Louis, but they were scheduled to be in Memphis. The choir needed someplace to sing.” Johnson knew the daughter of Dr. William and Dianne Young, co-pastors of The Healing Center in Oakhaven. So, he asked if the predominantly African-American church might be willing to host a choir of “whites singing gospel music. “The choir sings in English,” said Johnson. “I knew it was going to be a very unique situation – a white choir being hosted at a black church where none of these people knew each other.” Dr. Young said “yes because this occasion would give the opportunity to host visitors to Memphis. We all love gospel music. We were told that gospel music over in Europe was as popular as the blues were in the 1960s.” Well, that was just the beginning. The two congregations hosted the choir together at The Healing Center, and a good time was had by all. Although, the two churches stayed in touch, there were no joint activities planned over the next year or so. And then, 2016 happened. “It was the summer of 2016, and there were two police-related killings -- one was in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and the other

killing happened in Dallas, Texas,” said Johnson. “I said, ‘We need to have a conversation about race,’ and that’s just what we did. There were a number of learning points for me when we got together.” Daniel Dr. Young stressed Johnson that all of us should apply some kindness and understanding of others. “Having a respectful discussion about race is something we should all be able to do,” Dr. Young said. “Sometimes, we make assumptions about people without giving Stephen them a chance. That’s Cook what others do to us. They prejudge us. We don’t want to do that. God calls us to the ministry of reconciliation — not anger.” Johnson said there were real heart-felt discussions between members of Second Baptist and The Healing Center. Both learned new things about the other. “I distinctly remember a lady saying, quite frankly, ‘I didn’t even know there were white people who wanted to have this conversation,’” said Johnson. “That comment was striking as I have reflected back on that time.” Second Baptist members were watching a Bible film series on race, called, “Beneath the Skin.” The congregations met and discussed a number of issues, raised questions for thought and walked away with a better understanding of the other, said Johnson. Johnson’s associate pastor’s duties related to teaching compelled him to reach out, but the senior pastor of Second Baptist, Stephen Cook, applauded the effort. “We need to be in each other’s’ spaces

In 2016, members of Second Baptist Church in East Memphis joined members of The Healing Center for “real heart-felt discussions” after police killings in Louisiana and Texas. (Courtesy photos)

Second Baptist Church members surprised Dr. Diane Young (second from left) and members of The Healing Center in mid-June by showing up with a signature-adorned banner of friendship and support. — white faces in black spaces and vice versa,” said Cook. “Loving God and loving neighbors are at the heart of our common Christian traditions. These are not abstract ideas to ponder, but real actions to practice.” The two churches and their leaders are all friends now, a carefully treaded path, each meeting the other half-way, both willing to listen. When Johnson and other members witnessed the aftermath of Floyd’s death, they felt helpless to do something to make things better. So, Johnson and Second Baptist members surprised Dr. Young and Healing Center friends in mid-June by showing up on

their grounds with a huge banner that read, “We Stand ‘Two Together’ With You.” Members signed personal messages and their names on the banner. Dr. Young joined them and posed for a photo with his friends. “Dianne told me once, ‘Thank you for reaching out,’” Johnson said. “It was so powerful in that moment.” As they held the banner up in front of the church, cars drove down Tchulahoma Road blowing their horns and waving at the visitors. “People really did love the banner,” said Dianne Young. “We appreciate it because our friends tried to be there at a very painful time. That means a lot.”

Suited for safety... The Rev. Lee Eggerson (left) and the Rev. Daniel Martin, modeling pandemic safety with their masks, talk outside the Memphis Baptist Ministerial Association headquarters in South Memphis after a meeting on Tuesday. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

Happy Father’s Love Day... The Rev. Willie Ward Jr., pastor of Mt. Pisgah C.M.E. Church in Orange Mound, delivers his Father’s Day message. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

The New Tri-State Defender, June 25 - July 1, 2020, Page 6

AFRICAN-AMERICAN MUSIC APPRECIATION MONTH “Even in a pandemic, you can still support your favorite artists by streaming their music. It pushes our music to the top of the algorithm and gives us a dividend…eventually.” — Bijoux

You Oughta Know – Bijoux A gem in the Midsouth by Joy Doss Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Moving in style is a way of life for Telisu, who has two singles in circulation and an EP set for release later this year. (Photos: Demarcus Bowser)

You Oughta Know – Telisu

The K-Pop princess that bops by Joy Doss Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Telisu’s music is that FYE. She’s fabulous and stylish with seemingly no bad angles, which doesn’t always translate into good music. But, oh contraire! If you’re sleeping on her, don’t. I asked the burning question first. Why K-Pop (Korean Pop) and how? Here you are a Black woman from Memphis – the land of soul, blues and rock and roll – yet you fall into K-Pop of all things! First of all, let’s establish that she is one of those multi-hyphenate, how-does-she-do-it-all type of folks. In addition to music, she does all manner of design – web, set, interior. She even styled and propped her own shoot for this story. The genesis of Telisu’s K-Pop sound took root while she was living in L.A., working as a dancer. Driving home and LA traffic being what it is, she got redirected and stuck in gridlock. As the hunger kicked in, she caught the aroma of BBQ. Cause Memphis! She followed her nose and pulled over at a mom and pop spot in Koreatown. Shortly thereafter, the fates intervened once more and she wound up moving to that very neighborhood, where she would become a regular at the restaurant. Between the BBQ and R&B in heavy rotation, it felt like home. But everyone and everything else was Korean. Naturally, she became known as the Black girl who worked in entertainment. From there, the labels came calling, making her the first Black dancer in K-Pop videos, which is part of the way in which she is intentionally inserting Black women into different conversations. “I’m all about elevating Black women and girls,” she said. “I want us to know we’re good everywhere. This world would not rotate if we weren’t poppin.” Church! Telisu wound up spending a great deal of time in Seoul, South Korea and came very close to living there. A random offer from a friend to visit led to some unexpected opportunities. She maintains that while Japan may have fashion on lock, the Koreans have music. And they were receptive to her. “I would walk into a meeting (in L.A.) and these white men would tell me to my face that I was too dark to do pop. When I went to Seoul, it was the only time I got a fair listen. So as an homage, I always include something Korean either visually or sonically in my music.” The first visit turned into multiple extended visits over a five-year period. “I was excited to go over there and explore. It was amazing. It gave me the opportunity to create my own lane and start a completely different career.” She had actually been booked on a Korean TV style show, which was set to be produced by Top Model executives, which was unheard of for a Black woman in Korea. An issue with her visa left her redirected once more. Thinking that she would

In observance of African American Music Appreciation Month, The New Tri-State Defender is highlighting select Memphis-area artists throughout June. At month’s end, The TSD will present an edited video featuring one song from each featured artist. The finished product will be a hybrid mini-concert and extended multi-artist video. Stay tuned for the digital invite. be moving to Seoul, Telisu had already packed up her life in LA. She returned to Memphis for what she thought would be a respite. Three years later, she’s still here. “I’m on the longest layover ever,” she laughs. “At first I thought it was a Joy detour. Being here I’ve met so Doss many amazing and talented people, which reassured me that this is where I am supposed to be. I needed that because for a time I felt like I did something completely wrong. But being here has propelled me. “I’m really proud of what I’ve been blessed with here. We are a tight knit group of doers who want to move Memphis forward in a creative way but also remain authentic to who we are. I’m really excited about what we’re creating.” Telisu would like to see Memphis as a larger part of the global music conversation, recognized for its wide-reaching influence. “I feel like God has me here to help in the rebranding surrounding this City. People think of “The First 48” before they think about the fact that we are the first and only representation of hip hop at the Oscars. You can’t turn on the radio and not hear us. Not taking away anything from anyone, but without Memphis there would be no Atlanta.” As a contributor to the reshaping of the Memphis Music Commission, she is working to help make Memphis an independent city for artists, restructure ownership and advocate for a bonus tax for artists and labels to record here. She is a believer in artist ownership – designating an artists’ row, providing housing assistance, helping artists secure buildings. “Talent is our number one revenue,” she said. Telisu currently has two singles in circulation. Both were written with Anderson Paak when they were neighbors in Koreatown. Her EP will be released later this year featuring collaborative work with Memphians Free Soul, Yunomike, Jran, Sawse and imakemadbeats. Meanwhile, you can catch her style show, JADORE, on YouTube. Then have a listen to the music here: https://spoti.fi/2Z5bg2z. (Follow @telisu on IG for updates!)

Cameroonian beauty Bijoux is stepping out on faith. She has been singing since a teen and has been an in-demand cover singer until recently venturing out to release original music. Her first single – “Go With It” – appeared on the Bike Rack Records Summer Mix Tape last year. Earlier in 2020, Bijoux released the single, “Dit Moi,” which will be followed by the release of the full EP once the novel coronavirus decides to let us be great again. Bijoux is content to wait until the time is right. “I’m a primarily a live artist… and I want to release my music at a live show,” she said. “I want to do months of rehearsals, build up the energy and do an amazing show. I wanna do the most (for my first album).” She has a far-flung range of influences, including country, folks, classic rock, R&B and Makoosa, which is native to Cameroon and can be heard in “Dit Moi.” “In Makoosa everyone follows the lead guitar and percussionist. They set the tempo of the sound. It’s very rhythm heavy.” Makoosa was introduced to the West, unbeknownst to the vast majority of us, by way of Michael Jackson’s “mama say mama say mama coosa” lyrics. For the sake of comparison, Makoosa is very similar to the afrobeat and high life music made popular by African legends such as Fela Kuti and King Sunny Ade. She describes her soon-to-be-released EP as “alternative R&B. It’s like vibes, except if you’re almost 40 not almost 20. Kickback on the couch and drink a little brown on a Thursday night.” The reception has been amazing, Bijoux said. “When you do a cover, you bring your individuality to it. People stay if they like it and leave if they don’t. I never felt the full weight of people’s scrutiny until I got ready to release my own music. “It means something to me that people liked my baby. It was validation I never knew I needed. People listened and reposted. And for a couple of weeks, my name was at the top of the Apple music results

when I typed in ‘Bij!’” Though she won’t admit it, Bijoux has natural talent that was nurtured by her mom, who is also a singer, and time spent in her school choirs. That was how she ﬁrst came to realize that maybe just maybe she had a talent for this. She kept getting solos in the choir but didn’t relate it to talent until she was in college. Like many immigrant children, the expectation is to become a doctor, nurse, engineer or lawyer. Nevertheless, she stepped into her passion and purpose and hasn’t looked back. We talked about artistry and creativity during the pandemic. So many creators are creating, experiencing phenomenal growth and moving beyond their comfort zones. The new norm is forcing adjustments to thinking, process, goals and plans. For Bijoux, the pandemic has made her stretch as an artist. She live-streamed a weekly 90-minute show for two months from her living room; 90-minutes! In the absence of live/ticketed shows what can we do? How can we continue to support our faves and keep the music playing? “Even in a pandemic, you can still support your favorite artists by streaming their music. It pushes our music to the top of the algorithm and gives us a dividend…eventually,” she answers. “Tune to live performances, tell a friend, share a status. And you can always give to anybody’s ministry…hit my cashapp!” Other than releasing the EP once we return to normal-ish times, what’s next? Her next project will be a much more jazz-heavy project. Her muses are Sarah Vaughn and Billie Holliday. “Straight ahead jazz is my favorite lane. Hands down, no contest,” she said. Additionally, be on the lookout for several pre-recorded performances that will air at virtual festivals. Follow her on Instagram to stay up on the latest @iambijoux. She is fabulous and her melanin is poppin (especially in the yellows she likes to wear) but so is her music. “Dit Moi” went immediately to my Riddums playlist. Listen to it here: https://spoti.ﬁ/31gkAn0.

Bijoux has a far-ﬂung range of inﬂuences, including country, folks, classic rock, R&B and Makoosa, which is native to her home, Cameroon. (Photo: Dazzmin Murry)

The New Tri-State Defender

June 25 - July 1, 2020

Page 7

ENTERTAINMENT ALL OVER TOWN: “Part of being an artist, my responsibility is to not just make the things that we dance and groove to, but also music that implements a sense of social awareness.” — Brandon Lewis

‘Black Man’ makes a statement for African American Music Month by Brianna A. Smith Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Memphis singer-songwriter Brandon Lewis depicts the painful institutional mistreatment of Black men in his new single, titled “Black Man.” “Black Man. I’m still a man. It shouldn’t matter about the color skin that I’m in, I’m still a man. A Black man.” Though the single was written and recorded before the killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Rayshard Brooks, Lewis and Made In Memphis Records released it last week given the tenor of times. “Black Man” speaks out against police violence on Black people and the injustice and silence imposed on innocent people every day, it also illustrates Lewis’ views of his 25 years of life and trying to understand what it means to be a Black man in America today. Brandon Lewis is a protege of Made in Memphis Entertainment (MIME) CEO and former Stax Records songwriter David Porter. (Courtesy photo) The track is co-written and produced by Grammy Award winning record producer, musician and songwriter Blac Elvis, who is also a Memphis native. “Part of being an artist, my responsibility is to not just make the things that we dance and groove to, but also music that implements a sense of social awareness,” Lewis said.

Lewis also released a video for the track, shot outside the historic Clayborn Temple in Downtown Memphis. “Filming the video at the historic Clayborn Temple and the I Am A Man monument was empowering,” Brianna said Lewis. “The song A. Smith and video speak of pride.” Lewis’ sound is a skillfully smooth pop/ R&B blend. He compares his voice to Bruno Mars with a mix of Charlie Puth. Lewis was born and raised in Memphis, and attended Middle College High School, where he began singing and playing instruments. “I absolutely loved R&B and soul music,” he said, “but also growing up in Memphis the hip-hop scene was prominent for me.” Lewis is the young protege of Made in Memphis Entertainment (MIME) CEO and former Stax Records songwriter David Porter (“Soul Man,” “Hold On I’m Coming”), whose works received worldwide accolades during the 1960s and 1970s. Lewis is also one of the talents being groomed for stardom by MIME. In 2015, Lewis came across Porter’s Consortium MMT and signed up for the program. After completing the curriculum, Lewis stayed on to work at MMT helping other students, eventually becoming MMT’s director of programming. Porter was impressed with Lewis work

“It shouldn’t matter about the color of my skin. I’m still a man,” Brandon Lewis strongly aﬃrms, “a Black Man.” (Courtesy photo) ethic and talent, and gave him a shot as an artist for MIME. “He was able to see the potential to afford me the opportunity to do what I’m doing, which is focus on my music,” Lewis said.

The duo has been working together for more than ﬁve years, launching a new era of Memphis R&B and soul. Lewis already has recorded three albums at MIME, and looks forward to releasing more.

COMMUNITY The New Tri-State Defender, June 25 - July 1, 2020, Page 8

Sibling agency directors devise innovative, eviction-relief initiative by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Shelby County is looking at more than 9,000 evictions on low-income families hit hard by COVID-19-related shutdown and job loss. Now, thanks to a sibling collaboration of public administrators, thousands could be saved from joining the homeless ranks. Involving General Sessions courts in the process is key. “We knew from the start of this pandemic that significant impact would be felt on both the health and economic fronts for Shelby County residents,” said Dorcas Young Griffin, director of Shelby County Community Services. “Keeping every family in their home is top priority.” Griffin’s brother, Paul Young, director of Housing and Community Development (HCD) for the City of Memphis, also shares some of the

burden for making sure no family is turned out of their home. “Housing insecurity in this community is a serious issue,” said Young. “This potential displacement of individuals and families is devastating. Those who could least afford it have had to suffer the effect of the shut-down, job loss and dealing with the illness, itself.” Many states, including Tennessee, are lifting the moratorium on eviction proceedings, which was put in place to relieve the financial strain on families, whose main bread winners had lost jobs during the pandemic. Both agency heads anticipated what the eviction landscape might look like after the legal moratorium was lifted. Two months of collaborative work by Griffin and Young with community partners was unveiled last week before a Shelby County Commission committee. The Eviction Settlement Fund will apply “the best use of the allocated

money” to reverse eviction orders. The community partners include Memphis Area Legal Services, Neighborhood Preservation Inc., University of Memphis Law School, Innovate Memphis, General Sessions Civil Court judges and clerk, and several other local agencies. An allocation of nearly $2 million from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act will be available to directly pay negotiated settlements to property owners, allowing tenants to remain in their homes. In addition to the legal and financial support, tenants will be linked to more long--term financial counseling and social services that will be helpful to decrease the likelihood of future eviction, Griffin said. Young said involving the actual players in Shelby County evictions – the civil General Sessions judges, will be a crucial factor for insuring the best possible use of CARES dollars to cover everyone who needs

Memphis rappers’ memories of Rayshard Brooks’ killing still fresh

help. Staff from Legal Services and the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law will engage landlords in negotiations for payment to resolve eviction filings. “We are counting on the compassion of landlords who need payment, but realize that the effects of the pandemic have been hard on everyone,” said Young. “Strong legal negotiations on behalf of the tenants will get landlords paid and families remaining in their homes. It’s a win-win for everybody.” The Eviction Settlement Fund is only one of many efforts to address housing insecurity in Shelby County. “We are addressing this present eviction crisis, but long-term plans and actions will be necessary,” said Griffin. “Housing challenges have existed for many years and have only been exacerbated by this pandemic. We remain committed to using even more aggressive, collaborative measures to improve the quality of life

Dorcas Young Griffin, director of Shelby County Community Services, and her brother, Paul Young, director of Housing and Community Development (HCD) for the City of Memphis, are focused on helping low-income families stay in their homes. (Courtesy photo) for all Shelby Countians.” Both landlords and tenants involved in a pandemic-related eviction should complete a screening questionnaire at: www.home901. org/covid-resources.

SMALL BIZ PROFILE

by Brianna A. Smith Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Rayshard Brooks was buried Tuesday (June 23), 11 days after he was killed by an Atlanta police officer during an encounter witnessed by two Memphis rappers in the ATL to “conquer our dreams not to witness a murder.” Mike Perkins – aka “Mike Peezy” – and Melvin Evans, whose stage name is “2-Turnt Jizzle,” had traveled to Atlanta to film a music video with rapper Pastor Troy. “We’re from Memphis and we came to Atlanta to conquer our dreams not to witness a murder,” Perkins said at Friday (June 18) press conference in Atlanta in the law office of Shean Williams. “Memphis is tough, but I never seen anything like this.” After leaving a recording studio last Friday night (June 12), Perkins, Evans and a third person drove to a nearby Wendy’s. While in the drive-thru lane waiting to place their order, police responded to a call that a man was asleep behind the wheel of his car and holding up the customer traffic flow. Forty-plus minutes later and following a field sobriety test given Brooks, Officer Garrett Rolfe fatally shot him in the back after Brooks fired a Taser in his direction while running away after a struggle with officers. Rolfe, 27, is White. Brooks, 27, was Black. Rolfe was fired and another officer, 26-year-old Devin Brosnan, was placed on desk duty following the shooting. Police Chief Erika Shields stepped down less than 24 hours after Brooks died. Rolfe faces 11 charges, including felony murder. Brosnan, who the prosecutor said stood on Brooks’ shoulder as he struggled for his life, is charged with aggravated assault and violating his oath. Lawyers for both men said their clients’ actions were justified. “I called it,” said Perkins. “It was nighttime. We weren’t in the lot maybe three minutes before all of this occurred. I heard all the tussling and (officers saying) ‘stop resisting, stop fighting’ and I said, ‘This man fixin’ to kill this man out here. I ain’t know what color he was or nothin’.” Perkins said they were in the last car in the line at the time and that the situation occurred ahead of them. “He (Brooks) started running toward our vehicle. When I seen him running, I heard the tasers or what-

Mike Perkins (left) – aka “Mike Peezy” – and Melvin Evans, whose stage name is “2-Turnt Jizzle,” were in Atlanta to film a music video when they wound up on the scene of the police killing of Rayshard Brooks. (Photo: Screengrab image). ever, and when I heard them shots my first reaction was to duck. I was up under the seat, in the back seat ducking.” Evans was the driver. Brooks was killed about 10 feet from Evans’ recently-purchased Chevrolet Trailblazer. One of the bullets fired by Rolfe hit the vehicle on the passenger side, a fact not discovered until they left the parking lot and went back to the studio where they were working. “Right after the shooting, Perkins was telling me to drive away immediately,” said Evans, who decided to stay put. “We already nervous, shocked, all that. I probably would have ran over them,” he said. “They were that close and they probably would have thought that we were going to use the vehicle to hit them or something and fired shots at us. So I said, ‘we ain’t going nowhere.’” Evans said he backed out of the parking lot once he saw Rolfe put his gun back in his holster. “I thought it just wasn’t necessary,” Perkins said of the shooting. “The whole situation was awful.” The shooting happened against the backdrop of nationwide unrest following the death of George Floyd after a white Minneapolis officer pressed his knee into his neck and held it there for eight-plus minutes. Asked to amplify on his “called it” statement, Perkins said, “It was just what I felt like was going to happen because this is what’s been happening lately. These cops been killing people. …I was really just saying something but I didn’t know it was going to happen. …But it actually happened….” Brooks’ homegoing service was held at Ebenezer Baptist Church, which was the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.‘s congregation. (This story includes reporting from the Associated Press.)

Muggin Coffee Shop opens in Whitehaven in July with Mary and Ken Olds, a husband-wife duo, as owners. (Photo: Alexander Parmley)

Couple crafts coffee house to ‘chill, catch up and recharge’ by Brianna A. Smith Special to The New Tri-State Defender

In an effort to move away from supporting problematic and circulating the Black dollar, Ken and Mary Olds, a husband and wife duo, are set to open Muggin Coffee House in the Whitehaven area July 6. “Muggin is a vibe. A way of life in Memphis,” said Mary Olds. Muggin’ is a term used to describe a mood of extreme confidence and bravado. It is something very akin to the Memphis culture. And then there is the literal mug that you drink from. “Muggin’ is a play on words to pay homage to Memphis but also to describe what you’d actually put your coffee in,” Mary said. As I was skimming through their menu, I could tell Muggin’ was strategic in titling their products after things relatable to Memphians. The Coffee Roast “Hard Out Here for A Drip,” was inspired by the song “Hard Out Here for a Pimp” from the Memphis film “Hustle & Flow.” It is a dark roast recommended to help

push you through your day. “Looking for the Brewin,” was influenced by Memphis rap legend, Kingpin Skinny Pimp’s popular song, “Lookin For Da Chewin,” which is a medium roast and has a smooth brew. “Kinda Brew,” is named after jazz trumpeter Miles Davis’ album “Kind of Blue.” It is a light roast with fruity notes for a slow sipping kind of day. Muggin is committed to becoming a central hub in the community, where you will feel a sense of belonging. On the cafe’s website, their mission says, “Muggin’ is a dream of ours to bring community back to... well, the community. We want a place where people can go to chill, catch up and recharge.” The Olds couple both are products of Whitehaven, a.k.a Blackhaven, for its predominantly African-American community. “It’s a dream come true to be able to grow up somewhere and then be able to put a business in that community,” said Mary. “It’s like full circle for my husband and I.” Muggin Coffee House is commit-

ted to ensuring that coffee production is not only high quality and sustainable, but a vehicle for diversity, inclusion, social and economic restoration, entrepreneurship, and environmental sustainability. I feel that this coffee house is a place where people – are artists, entrepreneurs, politicians, essential workers, and/or a creatives – can come to have a safe space and feel comfortable. Coffee shop conversations often foster creative communities, which is why I am excited about the opening of Muggin in the Whitehaven area, the community where I grew up. This won’t be the typical lightly lit coffee house. “We want people to feel a sense of joy, pride and happiness and that will be reflected in the bright colors and ambiance,” said Mary. Mary and Ken Olds acknowledge local coffee roasters, J. Brooks for providing Muggin with the best quality coffee roasts. The coffee shop will also provide gourmet pastries, smoothies, espresso and blended beverages.

The New Tri-State Defender

June 25 - July 1, 2020

Page 9

COMMUNITY iMOM

Driving home the point of Father’s Day! by Brittany Holst Special to The New Tri-State Defender

My Father’s Day salute starts with a stick shift (manual transmission) and after I bought my first car. I learned to drive an automatic-transmission car in high school. Later, while in college studying communication, I decided to treat myself to something different – the experience of driving a “stick.” So I bought a car with one, with no idea of how to drive it. Hmm! Why did I do that? This is where fatherhood comes in. For young boys, “Dad” is their first hero and for young girls, “Dad” is their first love. My father, Wayne, has always been an active part of my life. He took took me to a shopping center parking lot to teach me how to drive my “stick”. I remember crying and telling him that I had made a mistake. I didn’t want the car anymore because I didn’t think I would ever figure out how to drive it. Terrified, I stalled the car in the middle of an intersection. My Dad patiently encouraged me to keep trying. The next day, equipped with the knowledge and encouragement he provided, along with driving lessons from my Uncle Milton, I was driving my “stick shift” like a pro! These days when I look at my husband, Zain, I can feel the love he has for our daughter, Niah. It warms my heart to see him interacting with her in the loving and caring way that he does. A huge smile comes to my face when she runs to him with her arms extended to embrace him as he walks through the door after a long day at work. Watching them, it’s hard to tell which one is happier to see the other.

Tanner M. George Sr. (Courtesy photo)

TSD iMom columnist Brittany Holst, with her Dad and “ﬁrst love” Wayne Jackson. (Photo: Shirley Jackson) The relationship between father and child is cherished, creating lifelong memories. Attorney Tannera George-Gibson, daughter of the late Tanner M. George Sr., shares a case in point. “My dad was one of a kind. He taught me the importance of being proud of who I am, my blackness, and being committed to serving my community.” George, who died three years ago at 78, was a “community father.” In 2012, he published a book titled “The Inner City Progress Initiative© (ICPI),” described by the publisher as “a comprehensive plan that is designed to help inner city residents achieve social and economic progress.” The “About the Author” segment paints this picture: “Tanner M. George, Sr. has long anguished over the lack of economics in the inner Cities of America. From teen pregnancy to gangs, AIDS, gun proliferation and no jobs, the absence of economics has played a dominant

My husband , Zain Holst, with our daughter, Niah, wearing smiles. (Photo: Brittany Holst) role in creating and perpetuating the dire state of millions of persons who reside in American Cities. Tanner is convinced that inner City residents desperately want to see their neighborhoods and communities make progress. “According to Tanner George, the ‘inner City man’ is both the culprit and the victim in the sad saga that is played out daily. This

is where Tanner has concentrated much of the ‘Inner City Progress Initiative’s’ eﬀort. He feels that if the man is whole, many inner Cities’ problems will be waylaid and repaired by dad, husband, breadwinner, and community contributor.” Growing up, George-Gibson remembers her DAD saying, “family is all that really matters

in this world.” She and her eight siblings maintain that value and pass it on to their own children. “And, at the end of the day, he taught us that you should always be able to laugh at yourself – never taking yourself too seriously,” she said. “And that no matter what happens, in the midst of it all, you always have to smile.” Today, fathers, we celebrate you for all your positives! Thank you for being role models, grill masters and the teachers of bike riding, car driving and life lessons. Thank you for teaching sons to be men and showing daughters how they should be treated by men and what love feels like. Thanks for being pillars of strength, patience and wisdom. Whether you are an adoptive dad, a biological dad, stepdad, godfather or an uncle who looks at a child as your own, you are an important factor in the child’s life. Happy Father’s Day and thanks for being the source of the joy I/ we get out of it! (Brittany Jackson was part of the ﬁrst corps of iTeen reporters for The New Tri-State Defender. Now as Brittany Holst, her iMom column is a periodic look at motherhood through millennial eyes.) NOTE: This story was published ﬁrst online at TSDMemphis.com.

CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE 2002 Nissan Maxima $1200 OBO (needs motor) Interested calls only 901-249-7103 or 901-504-0677 bdhanderson@gmail.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: Name of Purchaser Tax Parcel #: Tax Parcel ID No Tax Sale #: Tax Sale No. Price Offered: $Price Offered 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 Bid Off Time on Bid Off Date, 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 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 Friday 5 p.m. Classiﬁeds ads Monday 5 p.m. STANDARD RATES: $6.00 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. BEER PERMITS Flat Rate: $35 GENERAL INFORMATION:

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: Debra Reynolds Tax Parcel #: 04704500000290 Tax Sale #: 1601 Price Offered: $3900.00 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 July 31, 2020, 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.

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.

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: Jamaysia Pegues Tax Parcel #: 04905300000240 Tax Sale #: 1002 Price Offered: $50.00 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 July 29, 2020, 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.

OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT

(901)222-2400

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:

NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT

Leola E. Townsend Tax Parcel #: 04203400000550 Tax Sale #: 1602 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 8:00 a.m. on July 31, 2020, 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

Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400

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 July 31, 2020, 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.

NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE

Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103

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: Cannoka, LLC Tax Parcel #: 03111500000310 Tax Sale #: 1602 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 8:30 a.m. on July 29, 2020, 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: Cannoka, LLC Tax Parcel #: 03804600000170 Tax Sale #: 1602 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 9:30 a.m. on July 29, 2020, 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: Cannoka, LLC Tax Parcel #: 0260560000061C Tax Sale #: 1503 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 8:00 a.m. on July 29, 2020, 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: Tawana Gardener Tax Parcel #: 01103100000060 Tax Sale #: 1601 Price Offered: $400.00 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 8:00 a.m. on July 27, 2020, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank

The New Tri-State Defender

June 25 - July 1, 2020

Page 10

CLASSIFIEDS 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: Tawana Gardner Tax Parcel #: 02701100000280 Tax Sale #: 1503 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 8:30 a.m. on July 27, 2020, 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

p.m. on July 29, 2020, 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: Johnie Jefferson Tax Parcel #: 0750870D000070 Tax Sale #: 1004 Price Offered: $525.00 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 July 29, 2020, 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.

all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 10:00 a.m. on July 29, 2020, 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

er, 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 July 23, 2020, 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

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 July 28, 2020, 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

South City Memphis, LLC Tax Parcel #: 02700400000380 Tax Sale #: 1602 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 3:00 p.m. on July 28, 2020, 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

Repair. Restore. Remodel. Home Improvement Loans.

Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400

A Branch of The Bank of Fayette County

3454 S. Houston Levee Road Germantown, TN 38139 (901)472-6500 www.thebank1905.com

If I could do one thing, I’d make sure we stay healthy. If you could do one thing for your community, what would it be? More walk-in clinics? More funding for health services closer to home? Completing the 2020 Census is a safe and easy way to inform billions in funding for hundreds of services and programs in your community. Respond online, by phone, or by mail.

Complete the census at:

2020CENSUS.GOV Paid for by U.S. Census Bureau.

C24097_11a_2019_Census_Community_Seniors_V2_HalfPage_SizeC_11x10_5.indd 02.25.20 Epson

4C Newspaper - Size C

A24097x01D_131-00033230_240u.tif

The New Tri-State Defender

June 25 - July 1, 2020

Page 11

CLASSIFIEDS County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: South City Memphis, LLC Tax Parcel #: 07802800001140 Tax Sale #: 1601 Price Offered: $95,000.00 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 July 28, 2020, 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: Jeremy Mitchell Tax Parcel #: 01305500000780 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 9:30 a.m. on July 20, 2020, 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

attend a Public “Bid Off” at 9:30 a.m. on July 30, 2020, 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

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 8:30 a.m. on July 30, 2020, 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: Jeremy Mitchell Tax Parcel #: 02505000000110 Tax Sale #: 1304 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 8:00 a.m. on July 30, 2020, 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

We’re Known By the Money you Keep!

Coca-Cola, Sprite, Pepsi, Mtn Dew or Crush

Turner

Ice Cream

Kraft

Barbecue Sauce

2 Liter Bottle. Selected Varieties

Gallon Pail. Assorted Flavors

18 Oz. Bottle. Original or Honey ONLY ONLY..

Plus 10% Added at Checkout

95¢

$ 68

73¢

5x8.5 PRICESNewspaper GOOD JUNEAd 24,–2020 - JULY 7, 2020 MIDTOWN: WHITEHAVEN: SOUTH MEMPHIS: 1620 Madison Ave. 4049 Elvis Presley Blvd. 1977 S. Third St. See the Memphis Cash Saver grocery ad at memphiscashsaver.com

Thank You Built by Southern Serenity Homes in Kensington Manor, Lakeland, TN. Estimated value $500,000.

Giveaway Date: June 28, 2020 Thank you, Mid-South, for helping to raise $1.5 million for the kids of St. Jude. Watch the live Giveaway on WMC Action News 5 on June 28 at noon to see who will win. St. Jude patient Abraham

All tickets have sold out

National Sponsors Local Sponsors

dreamhome.org

Giveaway is conducted by and benefits ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®. ©2020 ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. (DMH-74) Raffle authorized by State of TN Division of Charitable Solicitations, Fantasy Sports and Gaming.

The New Tri-State Defender

June 25 - July 1, 2020

Page 12

SUBSCRIBE. DONATE. ADVERTISE. During times of crisis, crucial information about your community comes from local reporters. Access to high quality information is essential. Especially local information. And especially now. What’s happening in our communities? What’s the impact? How are our local leaders responding? For answers to these questions, we rely on the hard work of our local reporters. As a result, readership of local news outlets has reached record highs.

But due to COVID-19, most local news publications are losing money, fast. Advertising has plummeted during the crisis and readers aren’t subscribing fast enough to fill the void. This has led to thousands of local reporters being laid off. Just as our society faces numerous, urgent challenges. Millions of people are in danger of losing access to the authoritative local

information they need to stay informed. That’s why the Local Media Association and the Local Media Consortium are working with local news providers to build a strong future for local journalism. And that’s why our long-time partner Google is purchasing ads like this in local publications across the country, as well as providing a Relief Fund to help struggling local news outlets. But those actions alone aren’t enough.

Please consider supporting the local news organizations you rely on. Subscribe to them. Donate to them. And if you have a business that’s able to, advertise with them. Your support is critical to sustaining the dedicated journalists serving your communities. Our local news outlets help keep us safer. Let’s help keep them open.

This message supported by

SupportLocalNewsNow.com