The Tri-State Defender - February 29, 2024

IN HER ELEMENT:

Tennessee State alum makes history as first Black woman to help discover element for periodic table

TSU News Service

Tennessee State University graduate Clarice Phelps’s interest in chemistry began with mixing concoctions in the kitchen of her Nashville home at an early age. However, it wasn’t until her 10th-grade year at Martin Luther King Jr. Magnet High School that she became captivated by science and developed her passion for chemistry.

That passion laid the groundwork for her extraordinary journey of becoming the first Black woman to contribute to the discovery of an element on the periodic table.

Beginning as a technician, she worked on purifying berkelium (BK), which was used to confirm element 117, now known as Tennessine. Tennessine is a chemical element with the symbol “Ts” on the periodic table and is classified as a halogen.

“Taking a seat at the periodic table didn’t happen overnight, it was actually a 20-year

Clarice Phelps, an alumnus of Tennessee State University, made history as the first African American woman to help identify a new element on the periodic table — Atomic number 117 or ‘Tennessine.’ Phelps believes that her accomplishment “will change the small-yet-growing community of African American scientists and other scientists from marginalized communities. Being able to see something of themselves, to feel the common struggles that I share in this journey, to know the common invisibility of our impact on the scientific community, will be significant.”

(Courtsey photo/Oak Ridge National Lab)

journey” reflected the TSU grad.

After earning her chemistry degree from TSU, Phelps later obtained a Master’s in Nuclear and Radiation Engineering from UT Austin. Her path led her to the Navy for four years, where she applied her chemistry skills to radioactive materials, a pivotal role for her in the scientific community.

After serving in the Navy, Phelps joined the Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Oak Ridge, Tennessee in 2009. Two years later she conducted the purification work, a critical step in the discovery process, she said. Phelps and other lab members isolated the purified chemicals, shipped them to Germany and Russia, where they were used as target material to produce atomic number 117.

In 2016, she received the official confirmation that Tennessine was part of the periodic table. However, it wasn’t until 2019 that she learned she was the first Black woman involved in discovering an element, recognized by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC).

“Disbelief, shock, and disbelief again,” is how Phelps said she responded to the distinction. “I had to Google it, and I still was in disbelief.

“However, I thought about me as a little girl, desperately looking for someone like me in science who was an inspiration, and it changed my perspective,” she continued.

Making a splash for Special Olympics...

Recently, the Liberty Bowl in Memphis hosted the exhilarating Polar Bear Plunge and Chili Cookoff, a spirited event benefiting the Special Olympics. Despite the brisk 37-degree weather, over 100 enthusiastic participants, including first-timer Alex Hannah, braved the cold to take the plunge into the pool. Alex, who is special needs and a dedicated participant in the Special Olympics, joined this annual tradition alongside his father, Captured in the photo are (from left to

community.

MSCS introduces Feagins as Superintendent

TSD Newsroom

In a significant development for local education, Dr. Marie Feagins steps into the role of Superintendent for Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS), as announced during Tuesday’s School Board meeting on February 27, 2024.

The Board of Education introduced Dr. Feagins, highlighting her impressive track record in educational leadership, to usher in what many hope will be a transformative period for the district.

Board Chair Dr. Althea Greene expressed the Board’s enthusiasm about Dr. Feagins joining the MSCS family.

Marie Feagins

“We are confident that her leadership will have a profound impact on our students, staff, and community,” Greene said.

As Dr. Feagins prepares to officially take the helm, she is developing a comprehensive 100-Day Plan focused on strengthening ties with students, staff, families, and community partners. This initiative underscores her commitment to fostering a collaborative and inclusive educational environment from the outset of her tenure.

The Board took a moment to recognize

Commission votes down solar farm proposal

By James Coleman

Special to The Tri-State Defender

Shelby County Commissioners pulled the plug on a proposed 1,500-acre solar farm in Millington after a request for an exception to a moratorium on the facilities failed to sway enough members in its third and final reading during the Monday, February 26 meeting.

The 5-4 vote ends a frequently deferred six-month process. A final vote requires a seven-vote majority to pass. An appeal in Chancery Court is likely, where the matter will be settled.

Earmarked for parcels adjacent to a conservation agriculture district and residential areas, the proposed 150-megawatt Graceland Solar facility drew significant shade from residents concerned with the potential impact of the large-scale project.

German-owned RWE Renewables is Graceland Solar’s parent company.

“We bought our land because of the character of the neighborhood…the farmland, the trees, the wild animals. If this project is approved, we will no longer see that. We will see miles and miles of metal - heavy metal. How does that not change the characteristics of the neighborhood,” said Amy Mills.

The Millington landowner is also one of

right) Rio Hannah, D’Vonte Jones, and Alex Hannah, embodying the spirit of courage and

(Photo: Warren Roseborough/Tri-State Defender)

Kappas present major donation to St. Jude during Vicennium Partnership Banquet

TSD Newsroom

On Monday, February 19, 2024, the Memphis Alumni and Kappa Beta Chapters of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. celebrated more than two decades of partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

The momentous occasion was marked by the “Vicennium Partnership Banquet,” held at the Downtown Masonic Temple in Memphis, TN. This event not only commemorated the longstanding relationship between the fraternity and the hospital but also served as a fundraiser for St. Jude.

The banquet commenced with opening remarks by Absalom Bolling, the Vice Chairman of Kappa Alpha Psi for St. Jude, followed by an invocation by Dr. Christopher Davis, the interim President of LeMoyne-Owen College.

Dr. Justin Lawhead, the Dean of Students at the University of Memphis, welcomed attendees, and Memphis Mayor Paul Young delivered remarks. A “St. Jude Mission Moment” was shared by a St. Jude patient’s family, highlighting the impact of the hospital’s work.

The evening included the presentation of the “Leader of Innovative Change Award” to Rick Shadyac, the President and CEO of ALSAC/St. Jude, acknowledging his leadership and contributions. The

award was presented by Willie Brooks and Absalom Bolling, representing Kappa Alpha Psi’s involvement with St. Jude.

The event concluded with closing remarks from Bolling, encapsulating a night of reflection, celebration, and commitment to the ongoing partnership and support for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Clarice Phelps, right, works on a graduate project with another scientist. “I thought about me as a little girl, desperately looking for someone like me in science,” Phelps said, later adding. “I feel that I have become what I was looking for all those years ago.” (Courtesy photo, Oak Ridge National Lab)

ELEMENT

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Phelps said her higher education journey beginning at TSU was very impactful for her academic, professional, and personal career. About 25 percent of African American graduates with STEM degrees come from HBCUs, according to the United Negro College Fund.

“TSU was instrumental in establishing and building upon the confidence that I call upon to take up space where no space was made for me,” Phelps said. “I have found that by applying my knowledge, showing that I can do the work and serving my community by sharing in that knowledge is how I actively live out ‘Think. Work. Serve.’”

TSU chemistry professor Dr. Cosmas Okoro was Phelps’ assistant professor and advisor in 2000 and spoke highly of her both as a student then and as a chemist now.

“She is very persistent, and she wasn’t afraid to ask questions,” Okoro said. “I am very proud of her accomplishments and this honor.” Dr. Okoro said Phelps is active in the

chemistry community at her alma mater, as she was a keynote speaker for several virtual chemistry classes throughout the years.

Phelps anticipates that her groundbreaking discovery will impact the scientific community, especially in her field.

“It will change the smallyet-growing community of African American scientists and other scientists from marginalized communities,” she said. “Being able to see something of themselves, to feel the common struggles that I share in this journey, to know the common invisibility of our impact on the scientific community, will be significant.”

Reflecting on her career challenges as a Black woman, Phelps noted that there were many challenges. “The most significant challenge is being seen, heard, supported, and respected. It has been my experience that you are relatively invisible in the scientific community if you are a Black woman.”

She added that many times throughout her journey she felt small or even dismissed. “But to be in this position now just confirms what I have always

known about myself – that greatness is my destiny.”

Phelps emphasized the importance of exposing Black children to STEM careers. “Exposing children to STEM at an early age allows them to naturally develop an inclination towards it,” she said.

Phelps is currently working on her doctorate in Nuclear Engineering and hopes her work will serve as the catalyst for more conversations focused on minority STEM involvement, diversity in science, and addressing biases in the scientific community. She aims to make science a relatable and appealing career opportunity for historically disenfranchised communities, she said.

Phelps believes her story serves as a testament to breaking barriers, leaving a lasting legacy, and inspiring the next generation of Black scientists.

Phelps said this opportunity is a once in a lifetime as she is leaving a legacy behind.

“One that will surpass my current existence,” she said. “It is healing in a way as well because I feel that I have become what I was looking for all those years ago.”

Kappa Alpha Psi Grand Polemarch Jimmy McMikle offers remarks.

Dr. Donald Comer was the keynote speaker for the Vicennium Partnership Banquet.

Memphis Mayor Paul Young offers remarks at the Vicennium Partnership Banquet.

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity presents St. Jude/ALSAC with a donation during the Vicennium Partnership Banquet on Feb. 19. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)

Young men of Kappa Alpha Psi.

A Black History Month Salute to Black Educators

By Curtis Weathers TSD Education Columnist

February, of course, is a special month for African Americans here in this country. The month provides an opportunity for Black Americans to connect with their rich heritage, explore their roots, and celebrate their shared history and identity.

This can be especially important for younger generations who may not be exposed to these narratives in traditional education.

The teaching of African American history in schools across the United States has indeed faced challenges and controversies, especially in recent years. This has been part of a broader cultural and political debate about how race and history are taught in educational institutions.

Much of American history cannot be complete without highlighting the experiences and contributions of its African American citizens. Black History Month helps ensure crucial stories, struggles, innovations, and accomplishments within the African American community are not forgotten.

My life has been sprinkled with great African American teachers, administrators, and coaches who made an indelible impression on me that has lasted a lifetime.

My perspectives on community, adversity, justice, and my own responsibilities were shaped by their examples and the care they administered during those formative years. I think about them often, and I strive where and when I can to honor their legacy through my own actions and service.

I’d like to recognize some of those

Curtis Weathers

individuals who have impacted my life in such a profound way. And I am not the only one whose lives they’ve touched. There are others just like them who are making a difference in the lives of people, in particular, our youth, on a daily basis.

Dr. James Barber

As a 9th grader, I was enrolled at Cypress Jr. High School. Cypress opened in 1966, and we were among the first group of students to attend that school. There was order, discipline, and excitement in being among the first.

And Dr. James Barber was the principal. Big Jake, as we called him (never to his face, of course), ruled the hallways of Cypress Jr. High School. Dr. Barber was a massive man, a father figure to all of us, and a leader in the Hyde Park community. He was a man’s man and made us proud to be Cypress Timberwolves.

Dr. Barber is no longer with us, but his memory brings a smile to my face and gratitude to my heart for having the opportunity to have known him and being a product of his leadership.

Dottie Quaye Reed

Every young man needs a mentor in his life, especially when he’s navigating life’s uncharted waters. I needed one when I went to college at

the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) in the mid70s. Little did I know God had already arranged my mentor before I even arrived on campus. No one in my family had gone to college or had come anywhere near a college campus. I was there on a football scholarship, knew absolutely no one, and was clearly in uncharted waters.

But soon after my arrival, I somehow bumped into Dottie Quaye Chapman Reed. She immediately took me under her wings, and we became the best of friends.

Ms. Reed was the first Black admissions counselor at the University of Mississippi, serving from 1974 to 1977. She was also the first recipient of the Jeanette Jennings Trailblazer Award, named in honor of the Uni-

versity’s first Black faculty member, and she’s the author of the book “Outstanding Black Women of Yalobusha County.”

Ms. Reed spent many evenings teaching me how to navigate college life and life in general. She invested quality time in our relationship, and her investment continues to pay dividends decades later. She is a dear friend for life.

Dr. Fred Johnson

Dr. Fred Johnson has played a special role in my growth and development as a man over the years. He worked as a teacher and administrator in Shelby County Schools, including the reins of interim superintendent at one point. He also served on the Shelby County Schools governing board.

While he has many professional accomplishments, his friendship over the years is what I cherish the most. We both lived in the small, closeknit, Woodstock community. He of-

ten took me along with him to do odd jobs like lawn care and painting. As a young boy, in his own unique way, Dr. Johnson introduced me to the concept of “work ethic.” Although he never used those terms, he insisted that whatever job I was doing, to make sure it was done correctly. We talked frequently about the importance of hard work, but it wasn’t just talk, he lived it.

Dr. Johnson is a mentor, standard bearer, and role model. I have learned so much from him over the years. At 90-plus years of age, he is still mentoring me today! He has weathered some of the most challenging times for African Americans in the public education arena.

So, to all of our African American educators of old, you didn’t just teach subjects and manage classrooms; you touched lives, and your impact will be felt for generations. Your guidance, mentorship, and unwavering support mold countless individuals into the leaders, changemakers, and the everyday heroes we see today.

You defied stereotypes and shattered glass ceilings, proving that excellence has no color. Your courage and determination paved the way for countless others to follow in your footsteps, dismantling barriers and inspiring positive change.

So, thank you, Dr. Fred Johnson, Dottie Chapman Reed, Dr. Jake Barber, and countless others. This month, we celebrate you not just for what you’ve done but for who you are – heroes, trailblazers, and the wind beneath our wings. May your work and the words that tell your stories continue to inspire future generations to come.

Dottie Quaye Reed

Dr. James Barber Dr. Fred Johnson

SOLAR

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several residents who rely on a nearby access road that would be directly impacted by the project’s construction. She was joined by others in criticizing the proposal during public comments.

Yet, according to proponents, any further negative impacts from the solar farm would be ‘negligible.”

Pitched as a clean alternative to TVA-purchased supply, proponents also promoted the project as a surefire boon to the county’s tax coffers.

“We are approaching a new era and a new time in Shelby County. Basically, what we are attempting to do is provide energy to 24,000 homes in Shelby County and generate over $20 million in tax revenue over the life of the project,” said Van Turner.

The former two-term commissioner is serving as co-council for the solar company. He was joined by company representatives, area contractors, the landowner and a small contingent of like-minded residents

FEAGINS

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

the contributions of Interim Superintendent Toni Williams, whose leadership has been pivotal during a time of transition. They also emphasized the importance of supporting Dr. Feagins as she integrates

speaking in favor of the project.

The money would flow in through annual $800,000 allotments.

Turner also countered recent media reports that the energy generated at the facility would be sold on the open market to a far-flung client or community.

Along with thousands of solar panels, a list of conditions would also need to be contained within its 2.3-mile footprint. In addition to not affecting the character of the community or its flow of traffic, a 84-foot setback would be required from Singleton Road. The site would need to sit at least 758 feet from single-use residential areas. The boundary would be supplemented by a 35-foot buffer. Landscaping would also be required to obscure the facility.

Other stipulations include an impact study on adjacent properties. RWE Renewables would also need to post a bond, to cover costs if the panels are required to be removed before the 40-year operations contract would expire.

Although the energy company agreed to the terms set out by the Shelby County Division of Planning and Zoning - and

her vision with the district’s existing strengths. This blend of institutional knowledge and new perspectives is expected to drive reflection and innovation across MSCS. Recent achievements under the district’s belt, such as the consecutive increase in graduation rates now surpassing 80% and securing funding for

the moratorium - the benefits failed to outweigh the potential negatives for sympathetic commission members.

One member reminisced on the shortcomings that distinguished the artist-rendered designs of a recently completed large-scale project - the Memphis Sports & Events Center. Located near the southern end of Liberty Park, the parking lot of the six-acre, $60 million multipurpose facility often sits near-empty. It opened in 2022.

“When I think about the picture painted as compared to the reality, I empathize with you because it frustrates my soul every single day. To have to drive by an ugly gray box, that is pictured to have trees and lights and all these things but has never panned out,” said Commissioner Britney Thornton.

A colleague expressed her opinion more bluntly…

“I wouldn’t want to move to a neighborhood next to a massive monstrosity of a solar farm,” said Commissioner Amber Mills.

Voting in favor of the resolution were Shante Avant, David Bradford, Henri Brooks, Mickell Lowery and Erika Sugar-

the district’s first new high schools in a decade, set a positive backdrop for Dr. Feagins’ entry.

“We know that Dr. Feagins will hit the ground running, ready to extend gains, secure new wins and build strong relationships with all segments of our community,” Greene said.

THE TRI-STATE DEFENDER CLASSIFIEDS

mon. Opposed were Edmund Ford, Jr., Mick Wright, Mills and Thornton. Meanwhile, Charlie Caswell and Commission Chair Miska Clay-Bibbs abstained, while Brandon Morrison recused herself.

The Graceland Solar project is the second energy-related project in recent memory to fail to seek local approval. In 2021, the ill-fated Byhalia pipeline project was canceled after receiving pushback from activists, as well as community members who live along its proposed path. Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris also spoke out against the project.

A proposed biomass facilityUrban Memphis Wood - is currently being considered by the city council. It has seen a mixed bag of supporters and detractors, although many nearby North Memphis residents are opposed.

Even with injuries and a lost season, Derrick Rose takes nothing for granted

By Terry Davis TSD Sports Columnist

The season hasn’t unfolded as Derrick Rose envisioned when he signed a twoyear contract with the Memphis Grizzlies.

At the time, Memphis was expected to compete in for a championship. Rose has appeared in 22 of the 57 games due to a persistent hamstring injury. Despite the setbacks and the team’s struggles, Rose finds value beyond just winning.

“I am a hooper,” Rose said of his love for the game. “When I am out there, I try to win the game. I am trying to get a rhythm. It’s always fun stepping between those lines. It is a safe haven for a lot of guys.”

Comparisons between Rose and current Grizzlies star Ja Morant are easy to make. Both stars were electrifying immediately after entering the league, known for their aggressive — and some would say “reckless” — style of play. In Rose’s days as a Chicago Bull, it won him an MVP trophy, the youngest player to ever receive the award.

But throwing his body around like that also came with a cost. Injuries kicked in, altering his career trajectory. The former MVP bounced around the league with stints in New York, Cleveland, Minnesota and Detroit before signing in Memphis as a free agent last summer.

longer,” he said. “The happiness I get from going out there and playing, I do not take it for granted. Especially being older.

“I am on a team with a lot of younger guys,” he continued. “I am trying to help them with their routines, coming in with the same energy, creating that energy that hopefully can carry over to next year.”

Being in Memphis this season has been a family affair for Rose. During every pregame workout, his son is at nearly every home game. The bonding time allows his son to be a part of his journey in Memphis.

When Rose has been in the lineup, he’s averaged eight points and three assists, providing steady leadership and wisdom to the younger players. His return to action is always warmly received by Memphis fans, and his homecoming to Chicago earlier this year reminded everyone of his accolades, including his Rookie of the Year award.

As someone who’s lived through the highs and lows of an NBA career, Rose was philosophical about how this season has unfolded.

“In the words of Confucius, (‘You have to see the beauty in everything.’) That is what we are doing now,” Rose said. “We had a lot of injuries this year, including myself. I must see beauty even in the bleakness.”

2024DIBasketballSchedule MurphyCenter MiddleTennesseeStateUniversity,Murfreesboro,TN Boys'-March13-16,2024

Mark your calendars: TSSAA Championship Tournaments set to tipoff hoops madness

TSD Newsroom

It’s March. Let the madness begin!

The NCAA Tournament is indeed just around the corner, but first: Which high school boys team will bring home a championship? Which girls team will be crowned best in the state?

The 2024 TSSAA Division I Basketball Tournament is poised to showcase Tennessee’s top high school basketball talent. The girls’ tournament runs from March 6-9, while the boys’ tournament follows 13-16. Both tournaments will be played at the Murphy Center at Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro.

This event promises to be a thrilling experience, highlighting the skills and sportsmanship of young athletes across various classes, from 1A to 4A. Each day is packed with quarterfinals, semifinals, and the much-anticipated championship games, culminating in the crowning of this year’s state champions. Here’s are the schedules:

These days, he’s just happy to be able to compete.

“It is happiness. Joy would be winning a championship because it lasts a little bit

Derrick Rose drives to the rim against the Brooklyn Nets on Feb. 26. (Warren Roseborough/Tri-State Defender)

Derrick Rose (Photo: Terry Davis/ The Tri-State Defender)