The New Tri-State Defender - May 18-24, 2023

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May 18 - 24, 2023

VOL. 72, No. 20

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Trio of proposed gun ordinances get Council committee OK

by James Coleman

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Three of Sarah Hughes Johnson’s surviving children – Ned, Karen and Geneva – nestle around her. Not pictured is her daughter Yvonne. (Courtesy photo)

Sarah H. Johnson rose above the times in Greenville, MS

A trio of new ordinances crafted to stem the proliferation of guns in Memphis received across-the-board approval on a voice vote from members of the Memphis City Council Public Safety & Homeland Security Committee during its Tuesday (May 16) meeting.

The proposed ordinances will now go before the full council, where they will have a series of three readings. If approved, Memphis voters will vote them up or down on the August 2024 election ballot as individual referendums.

“The state legislature has been derelict in their duties. At some point in time, the City of Memphis should be voicing their opinion on the type of laws we need here that will ultimately govern ourselves,” said council Co-Chairman JB Smiley Jr. “I have no faith in the state legis-

lature to pass laws to protect the city of Memphis. I have every faith in the people of Memphis to pass laws to protect ourselves.”

Smiley’s comments reflected the mood of committee members: To give the voters in Memphis a chance to let the Republican-dominated General Assembly know that they want stronger gun laws in a city experiencing an almost daily barrage of gun violence.

Among the limits being sought to local gun laws is a ban on open carry without a permit.

The ordinance would also set rules for gun storage in vehicles or boats, to make it less likely for a firearm to be stolen.

A second ordinance would make the purchasing of assault weapons illegal. It would also bar current owners from open carrying the weapons in the city, while making sure the weapons are kept at home, unless being taken to an appro-

SEE GUNS ON PAGE 2

Remembered as ‘a strong and courageous leader’

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Sarah Hughes Johnson, a beloved daughter of Greenville, Mississippi, respected for her Civil Rights advocacy and civic leadership, died May 9 at Region One Health in Memphis. She was 85.

Ms. Johnson’s life was a filled with accomplishments that helped improve the lives of her constituents, especially African Americans.

“Our mother was bold,” said Geneva Johnson, the eldest of Johnson’s four children. “She was courageous, and threats from white people who didn’t like what she was doing never fazed her. Mother just kept going, even after the divorce when she was left to raise four children alone. She was never distracted from her purpose.”

In 1973, Ms. Johnson became the first African American to serve on the Greenville City Council. Johnson was also the city’s vice-mayor.

Ms. Johnson served on the city council for 23 years. Upon retiring in 1996, she realized that she helped push the city forward for more than two decades.

Beyond Greenville’s racist past, her efforts spurred momentum for a new day in uniting the races in hope and optimism.

Dr. Russell Wigginton (center), president of the National Civil Rights Museum, donned a hard hat in preparation for breaking ground on the renovation that will thrust the museum into the future. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender)

Sarah Hughes Johnson is greeted by President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalyn. (Courtesy photo) “Of course, as children, we didn’t understand, really, who our mother was,” said Karen Johnson, youngest of the four children. Mother was director of various organizations. She had lots of friends also working in the civil rights movement.

“We had different ‘nannies,’ who would look after us. We didn’t see mother as much as we would have liked, especially me because I’m the baby. But we at least could understand that her work was important.”

SEE JOHNSON ON PAGE 2

The future is taking shape at National Civil Rights Museum

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

The National Civil Rights Museum broke ground Tuesday morning on an extensive renovation project that will expand the exhibit space by 7,500 square feet.

National Civil Rights Museum President Dr. Russell Wigginton noted that more space will allow the museum to better convey the history and the continuing story of the fight for human rights.

“Renovations at the Legacy Building and Founders Park will allow us to be much more power in our messaging,” said Wigginton. “The potential for more educational and interactive opportunities for our visitors will be virtually limitless. We are excited about the inspiring and life-changing new exhibits we anticipate

creating. This is a transformative moment in the museum’s history.”

Prior to the groundbreaking ceremony, a host of donors and dignitaries spoke briefly to the gathering of about 150. The May 15 event was staged under a tent on Mulberry Street.

According to details of the expansion plan, the Legacy Building will be extended to the east bordering Mulberry Street. On the south, the structure will be lengthened right up to the main building.

Wigginton cited Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s last book title, “Where Do We Go From Here?” to frame the project announcement as both historic and transformative.

Mayor Jim Strickland applauded the twoyear project.

SEE NCRM ON PAGE 2

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The New Tri-State Defender

May 18 - 24, 2023

Page 2

NEWS

Architect Juan Self details the look of the National Civil Rights Museum’s future.

NCRM

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

“I am originally from the Mississippi Delta,” said Self.

“I went to D.C., and later, came to Memphis. But I never imagined I would be here in this capacity. I have been involved with the museum – every expansion project and renovation from the very beginning, I have been there.

It has been an honor. Why are we here? We are here because of this place. I have learned the power of place.”

Self characterized renovation plans as “top to bottom” refurbishments.

Plans indicate that the Legacy Building will be expanded on the first floor to include digital exhibitions, a Freedom Award section, and exhibits on Dr. King’s Poor People’s Campaign.

With the ceremonial groundbreaking completed, the work now begins on major renovations at the National Civil Rights Museum. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender) valued resource for decades until segregation was legally struck down.

Self said the room and balcony where Dr. King was killed will be preserved as it is.

“We are all here because of a place,” said Self. “I have learned the power of place here at the Civil Rights Museum. This place has power because there is power in truth-telling. With these expansions, the legacy of truth-telling will continue. The power of truth-telling is that lives are changed, and people are transformed.”

Blue Cross Blue Shield Board Chair Emily Reynolds announced that Founders

Park will be Memphis’s third “Healthy Place.” Reynolds called the park “hallowed ground” and expressed the honor Blue Cross Blue Shield felt in being a part of such a significant project.

Blue Cross Blue Shield is reportedly investing $9.6 million to “re-imagine the space for people to be able to come and reflect after visiting the museum,” according to VicePresident Kevin Woods, who directs the Memphis market.

“It will be an amazing space, not just for Memphians, but people across the country,” said Woods.

The Museum’s former Chief Marketing and External

Affairs Officer Faith Morris was present for the event but did not make formal remarks.

“I felt it was important to be here for this great expansion and redesign of the museum,” Morris told The New Tri-State Defender Newspaper. “The museum is, indeed, a transformative place for visitors. Upgrading and expanding exhibits will meet the demand for telling the Civil Rights story as some attempt to rewrite history.

“I am happy about what is happening now. The message of the Civil Rights Movement must endure. It will as long as landmarks such as this one still stand.”

JOHNSON

GUNS

In 2013, then-Greenville mayor John Cox met Johnson, along with family members and officially renamed a Greenville street, “Sarah H. Johnson Lane.”

Even at 75, sitting in her wheelchair, Johnson made a speech during the event.

“Praise God and thank you, Jesus,” she began. “I want to thank all of you for coming out to this occasion…”

The Delta Daily News reported that Ms. “Johnson won her political campaign in 1973 during a time when racism and Jim Crow laws were still in full effect despite being revoked years prior…”

“Throughout her career, Johnson was known for her tenacity and willingness to help the poor, middle-class, and the elderly. Her goal was always to help those who were less fortunate. She will be remembered for embodying the characteristics that the community needs to see in its leaders.”

Greenville Mayor Errick D. Simmons released a statement, expressing the city’s shock and sadness shortly after Johnson’s death. Simmons said hearts were heavy in Greenville for the loss of “Mrs. Johnson.”

“Mrs. Johnson will be remembered, not only as a municipal leader, but also as a community activist who loved the City of Greenville, her family, and all its citizens,” Simmons wrote.

“Mrs. Johnson’s determination, dedicated service, and courage opened the doors of City Hall for me and every other Black municipal leader in Greenville.”

Johnson was employed

by Mississippi Action for Community Education, where she was the area director for the People’s Education Program (Head Start). Johnson also served as a 1972 Fellow of the Mississippi Institute of Politics and attended several affairs by invitation to the White House during President Jimmy Carter’s administration.

Sarah Hughes was the fourth child of 13 children. she never knew who her father was. Her birth mother gave her to an aunt, who had just lost a baby.

“There was never a formal adoption, or anything like that,” said Geneva Johnson.

priate firing range for practice.

The second ordinance would not apply to law enforcement, members or the U.S. Armed Forces or the Tennessee National Guard.

There also are exemptions for current owners who completed an application, passed a background check, or have a receipt or purchase order for their rifle before the changes to the charter would go into effect.

Lastly, a red flag law is being proposed that would allow law enforcement to remove firearms from individuals who are deemed a potential danger, or risk.

“This would essentially be a trigger law, which would allow our government to automatically begin enforcing these laws once they’ve come into compliance with state laws,” said Councilmember Jeff Warren.

Warren also said he planned to include “carve-outs” to allow the local government to regulate firearms that “make our citizens safe” and “protect everyone’s right to bear arms.”

If voters approve, the ordinances would go into effect on Jan. 1, 2025.

Tennessee gun owners currently are policed by some

of the loosest gun laws in the nation. In 2021, the state legislature voted to allow gun owners as young as 18 years old to carry a firearm openly.

Warren offered, “I think part of the reason we are where we are in our state is the vast majority of legislators come from small towns, rural areas, where guns are more a tool that you use on the farm to keep varmints out of the chicken coop, or other things along that line.

“Essentially, we don’t really have that need in the city. Here, they are weapons that are used to kill people, not necessarily tools that are used to maintain order on your property.”

Councilmember Worth Morgan tried to tamp down expectations and cautioned about possible inaccurate reporting surrounding the ordinances.

“This is obviously something that is going to get a lot of attention. There’s going to be a lot of media around this,” he said. “There’s going to be a lot of conversation about this between Memphis and Nashville…

“I want to make sure it’s reported accurately, what we’re doing.…If this passes 13-0 on third reading, this will not change gun laws in Memphis.

What it does, it puts the question to the people about how they want to be governed and what their preferences would be.”

Tennessee law supersedes ordinances and laws passed by local governments that deny the “regulation of firearms, ammunition or components of firearms or ammunition, or combinations thereof” by any local agency, governing body, or elected official.

Morgan’s pessimism was cryptically countered by the council’s private attorney, Allan Wade.

“There are theories upon which we may have the authority to go forward without state law,” Wade said. “I don’t like to reveal litigation strategy in public…It’s not a foregone conclusion that there aren’t theories that this can be enforced without state law.”

Wednesday (May 17), a day after Wade’s comments, the U.S. Supreme Court, in a setback for gun rights advocates, refused to block a Democratic-backed ban on assault-style rifles and large capacity magazines enacted in Illinois after a deadly mass shooting in Chicago’s Highland Park suburb in 2022.

Tennessee state lawmakers, meanwhile, are set to bring up the issue of gun control on Aug. 21. Gov. Bill Lee called for a special session to discuss gun-reform proposals after waves of protests and pressure from Democrats following a deadly school shooting in Nashville on March 27.

“‘Where Do We Go From Here?’ is a great question,” said Strickland. “The National Civil Rights Museum has inspired transformative change in the lives of its visitors. Some very important conversations have taken place because of what people experience here. We appreciate the Civil Rights Museum for leading the way on this very important discussion about where we are headed from here.”

Juan Self, founding principal of Self Tucker Architects, is heading up the project. The designer has been involved in every expansion and renovation since the museum opened in 1991.

The second-floor exhibitions will explore the Civil Rights Movement since Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination on the balcony of the old Lorraine Motel, which the museum encompasses.

“Legacy Building” is the name given to the original Lorraine Motel, which provided comfortable lodging for African-American visitors who were not welcome at other hotels in the days of segregation. The Lorraine Motel was a popular stop in the Green Guide, also called The Green Book, that listed establishments throughout the country that served African Americans. It remained a

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

Sarah Hughes Johnson handled her business and won reelection. (Courtesy photo)

Sarah Hughes Johnson in earlier times with her children (l-r) Geneva, Ned, Yvonne and Karen. (Courtesy photo) “My mom’s birth mother gave her sister the baby because her baby died. So really, the woman my mother called her mother was really her auntie.

That’s just what families did back then.

“She was born in Allendale, South Carolina. Mother and Daddy came later to Greenville because he was moved to a new church. Dad was a United Methodist pastor.”

Sarah Hughes met Ned Johnson at Clark College. She was a first-year student, and Ned Johnson was attending Gammon Seminary. Although Hughes won a full-time scholarship as valedictorian of her high school, she left after her freshman year. After starting a family, Johnson was assigned a new church in Greenville.

Unfortunately, the union did not last, and Ned Johnson left Greenville, never to return.

“My dad left when I was three years old,” said Karen Johnson. “But my mother was always there — still out there fighting for her community.

Mother and other community activists decided that the four Johnson children will go to the predominantly white school to

force integration.

“And I didn’t mind going to school with white children. It was just not having the frilly, little dresses that bothered me.

I was about six or seven.”

Despite a very painful divorce and all the hatred the white establishment could muster, Johnson never lost sight of her vision that all of Greenville’s children would enjoy a free, public, and equal education and every citizen could freely exercise their right to vote without threat or intimidation.

“This Mother’s Day was going to be extra special,” said Geneva Johnson. “Each year, that day becomes so precious because you begin to realize your mother won’t be with you always. I thought we would enjoy her today. She went on to be with the Lord, but we’re still going to enjoy her.

“We’ll share memories and laugh about so many things we thought were funny as children. We’ll call our brother Ned so we can all remember her together. It will be hard, but we will get through it. We are all pretty tough. We got it from our mother.”

The New Tri-State Defender

May 18 - 24, 2023

Page 3

EDUCATION

LOC’s 2023 graduates at the 153rd Commencement held at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church-Westwood. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender)

LOC’s commencement speaker, Nzinga Shaw, chief DEI officer for the Recording Academy/Grammys, was introduced by LOC President Dr. Vernell Bennett-Fairs (left).

Grammy’s DEI exec notes the resolve of LeMoyne-Owen College’s 2023 graduates TSD, Shaw recalled her own 2001 commencement experience at Spelman College in Atlanta.

“It was filled with inspiration, love, joy, and excitement.

I want these awesome, young people to also feel loved and inspired.”

After earning her bachelor’s degree from Spelman College, Shaw received her master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania. Before joining the Recording Academy, Shaw was the first Chief Inclusion and Diversity Officer for both Starbucks and the National

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

Nzinga Shaw, LeMoyne-Owen College’s commencement speaker, brought her three children – ages six, four and two – with her. She wanted them to experience the commencement of an HBCU (historically black college and university).

Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer for the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences, Inc., Shaw showered praise on graduates at LeMoyne-Owen College’s 153rd Spring Commencement, which was held at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church-Westwood on Saturday (May 13).

In an interview with The New Tri-State Defender on Friday, Shaw said, “We hope our children will also choose to attend a historically black college. …

“LeMoyne-Owen College has a wonderful story, a story worth telling. The institution deserves all the love and attention we can give. And it is my joy and pleasure to encourage these graduates.”

Two months ago, Shaw, an HBCU graduate, was named the Recording Academy/ Grammy’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion chief. In that capacity with the global entity, she leads its DEI Center of Excellence with the focus of enabling a more engaged global workforce and creating enhanced platforms to recognize the diverse array of artists and music professionals.

And while she now has what she described as her “dream

Dr. Vernell Bennett-Fairs

“As our (LOC) Magicians embark on a new chapter of their lives, we are confident they are poised to go from here and accomplish great things.”

— Dr. Vernell Bennett-Fairs job,” Shaw’s focus at the commencement squarely was on LeMoyne-Owen College (LOC), the higher-education opportunity it presents, and the graduates who seized the opportunity and completed the journey.

“I am so proud of this institution and these students,” said Shaw. “Historically black colleges and universities leave a legacy of opportunity and

Michael Zhou delivers the Class Valedictorian address.

accomplishment. Look at what tremendous challenges these 2023 graduates have come through – a global pandemic and the beating death of Tyree Nichols right here in their city.

“But they powered through with resilience and courage. I am so proud of them.”

LOC President Dr. Vernell Bennett-Fairs embraced Shaw as a “dynamic global leader and HBCU alumnae.”

“As our (LOC) Magicians embark on a new chapter of their lives, we are confident they are poised to go from here and accomplish great things,” said Bennett-Fairs.

“We are just thrilled to have such a dynamic, global leader impart wisdom and inspiration for their days ahead. Ms. Shaw is not only an HBCU alumna, … she continues to strongly advocate for their legacy, importance, and support.”

In her interview with the

Basketball Association’s Atlanta Hawks.

An adjunct professor at Fisk University, a United Negro College Fund member, Fisk University, Shaw also teaches in the Honors Program at the John R. Lewis Social Justice Institute.

Her HBCU roots run deep.

“My parents came from historically black colleges,” she said. “My mother graduated from Benedict College, in Columbia, SC, and my father graduated from Morgan State University, in Baltimore, MD. As children, we always knew

we would be attending a historically black college. The only question was which one. …

“In such an important moment in a young person’s life, historically black institutions provide cultural socialization and build a sense of community. They cultivate self-esteem and (provide an) enriched structure that adds value to the student.”

Historically black colleges such as LeMoyne-Owen, “let black students know that they are both seen and esteemed,” she said.

PERSPECTIVE The New Tri-State Defender, May 18 - 24, 2023, Page 4

Ruby Bridges says reading festivals can counteract book bans

by Tonyaa Weathersbee

ries like hers are especially important during this time.

Here are some highlights:

In elementary school several years ago, Olivia Shackelford read about how 6-year-old Ruby Bridges endured racial slurs, ostracism, and death threats for integrating an allwhite elementary school in New Orleans in 1960.

Groups such as Moms for Liberty that try to get books about race banned from schools say that reading such stories can traumatize children.

But Bridges’ story didn’t traumatize Olivia, her mother said. Instead, it energized her desire to learn more about the history of racism in America and the sacrifices of people like Bridges.

“She read about Ruby Bridges and the impact she had on integration, and she was obsessed, for years, with meeting her,” said Stephanie Shackelford, who brought Olivia, now 13, and her two other daughters, Cassidy and Blue, to the Ruby Bridges Reading Festival at the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis on Saturday.

“We’re from Cabot, Arkansas, and found out that this was going on in Memphis, so she finally got a chance to meet her.”

As Tennessee, Florida, Texas and other states remove books that recount painful periods in history from school shelves, Bridges said that book festivals like the one that bears her name will be key to helping children like Olivia learn about the history of racism in America.

According to a report by PEN America, a group that champions freedom of expression through literature, 1,477 instances of book banning occurred in the first half of the 2022-23 school year, up 28% from the previous year.

And while Florida and Texas led with the most bans, Tennessee law is also making it easier for local authorities to ban books — including titles like Bridges’ own “Ruby Bridges Goes to School,” which a parents group in Williamson County objected to.

Bridges spent part of Saturday afternoon signing her newest children’s book, “I Am Ruby Bridges: How One Six-Year-Old Girl’s March to School Changed the World,” and others. Before that, she spoke to reporters about how her story wound up being the target of book bans, what must be done to combat them, and why sto-

On her first book, “Ruby Bridges Goes to School,” becoming the target of book bans:

Chalkbeat Tennessee

“I try to write my books in an uplifting way. My books have been truthful, and I do uplift everyone who was involved (in her integration effort): my teacher, who was white, my psychologist, who was white, the federal marshals who supported me, the people around the country who supported me. “(But) they said the reason my books were being banned was because it made young white kids feel bad about themselves. So, for them to say that, that’s ridiculous. So, when they started targeting me, I couldn’t ignore it. Then I got a call from Congress asking me if I would speak about it.”

(Bridges spoke against Texas book bans during a House Oversight Committee hearing in 2022).

“Once my books are pulled down, you probably should expect that a lot more would follow. But if you’re banning my books because they’re too truthful, then why don’t we start having a conversation about the books that we force our young people to study, like the textbooks we know omit so much of the truth?

“So, if we’re going to ban my books, let’s take them all off the shelves and start anew.”

On what parents and communities should do to fight book bans: “I think this festival speaks to that.

We need to all come together to make sure books are available to kids, and to grow more reading festivals.

“I believe that if we’re going to get past our racial differences, we can’t do it alone. There was a time when we, as African-Americans, couldn’t be caught with a book, or couldn’t let people know we knew how to read. But we’ve come a long way from that, and it seems like we could be heading in that direction again if books are being banned.

On why the racism she endured as a 6-year-old is important to children’s understanding of history: “I was recently asked to speak at

MSCS saluted teachers in video shout-outs during Teacher Appreciation Week. (Photo: screen capture)

Civil rights pioneer Ruby Bridges signs copies of her books at the Ruby Bridges Reading Festival at the National Civil Rights Museum on May 13. Bridges, 68, said book festivals can help counteract book bans. (Photo: Tonyaa Weathersbee / Chalkbeat Tennessee) a conference based on history. I was thinking about what I wanted to say about history. Then I thought about how I had to get on a plane to travel from Louisiana to D.C. “I thought about how I arrived and made it safely, but someone in another plane didn’t (because of a plane crash).

“When that happened, they had to send a plane crew to the wreckage, to go through that wreckage, and to find that little black box.

“Can you imagine what those people must have seen going to that site, going to that wreckage, to get that little black box? Why was that box so important? It was the history that little black box held to make sure that I, on the next flight, would arrive safely.

“If history works for something like that, what makes us think it won’t work for racism — to rid us of racism? If we tell the truth — good, bad, or ugly — if we teach that it happened, then maybe history will move us past our racial differences.”

On how being a civil rights icon propelled her to become a writer and literacy advocate: “I never dreamed that I would become an author myself, but writing my own story made me realize that I didn’t just want to give books away to kids, but to inspire them to write.

I hope this festival can help do that.”

(Bureau Chief Tonyaa Weathersbee oversees Chalkbeat Tennessee’s education coverage. Reach her at tweathersbee@chalkbeat.org.)

U.S. Marshals escorted a young Ruby Bridges to and from William Frantz Elementary School while segregationist protests continued in 1960. (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)

Teachers, THANK YOU!

by Curtis Weathers

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

There was something extra special about last week’s Teacher Appreciation celebrations.

As an educator, I had the opportunity to work with some great classroom teachers during my career. But given what teachers have endured over the last three years, my respect and admiration have been elevated to a whole new level.

If there was ever a time we as a community should be showing our gratitude for the dedication and hard work of our teachers, it is now.

Last week we saw and heard of some wonderful acts of appreciation and celebration in schools, not just in Shelby County but across the nation.

We sometimes forget just how valuable our teachers are. They are arguably the most important members of our society. Teachers are indispensable role models for our children and often are the inspiration children need to go further and dream bigger.

Today’s children are our leaders of tomorrow, and their leadership abilities are shaped and molded by the teachers they interact with daily.

There always was an exceptional teacher who impacted my life at every level of my educational experience.

When I was a sophomore in college, my English professor asked me to meet with her after class to discuss a paper I had written.

She talked about my writing and showed me the corrections I needed to make. She told me how much she enjoyed reading my paper and called me a “Renaissance” man.

At the time, I had no idea what she meant by that, but after looking up the word renaissance in the dictionary, it took me over a week to calm down and erase the smile on my face.

Many educators view teaching as a “calling,” not just a job. A paycheck is not the most important thing. They do the work because they have a passion for youth and genuine love for the field of education.

Great teachers are dedicated professionals, shown by their ‘round-theclock work habits. Many arrive early at the schoolhouse and stay late.

They usually are grading papers, developing lesson plans, and communicating with parents after school and on weekends.

But teachers are leaving the profession at an alarming rate. The stress of the pandemic, along with other formidable challenges, has taken its toll.

Burnout and low pay have always been an issue with teacher retention.

Curtis Weathers

edented ways.

Some teachers went back to in-person learning during the height of the pandemic, which added to their stress and other health concerns.

I’m still in awe of what teachers were able to accomplish as the pandemic raged on.

But these conditions and concerns continue to fuel an increase in teacher turnover and a growing teacher shortage nationwide.

The challenges of teaching in today’s classrooms, from kindergarten to college, are formidable under any circumstances.

Teachers today find it difficult to stay motivated and inspired.

Many still struggle with their own well-being and work/life balance.

Recent studies, however, suggest that “workload” is the biggest reason for teachers leaving the profession.

But despite the stress and the challenges, teachers continue to persevere.

Teachers have seen it all over the last few years, and the money they make falls woefully short of the value they provide.

Whenever we get the chance to show our appreciation, we should do so in a manner befitting the job and their responsibilities, which are great.

So, to all the great teachers out there, THANK YOU for the work you do with our youth and their families.

Thank you for your leadership and encouragement to our children during the most challenging times.

Thank you for the hard work and dedication you provided during the height of the pandemic. We will never forget the sacrifices you made and your efforts to ensure that our children continued to learn and were safe while doing so.

And lastly, thank you for being a role model and an inspiration to scores of children and colleagues who admire your work.

Never forget, you are loved and appreciated by so many.

(Follow me, TSD’s education columnist, on Twitter @curtisweathers. Email me at curtislweathers@ gmail.com.)

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The New Tri-State Defender

May 18 - 24, 2023

RELIGION

Page 5

Pastor guides young people, both at church and school

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Ask talented musician and pastor Kenneth Hollins how he ended up being a pastor and schoolteacher, and he will tell you, “It was an accident.”

The gifted artist was on the road to the lucrative, professional life of a traveling musician.

But a desire to share his talent with a younger generation and a persistent call from God to preach derailed that career train.

Now the senior pastor of the multi-cultural, nondenominational Overcoming Faith Christian Church at 4105 St. Elmo Ave. in Raleigh is teaching students how to master music, the universal language, while providing spiritual guidance to his congregation.

“According to my parents, I started on drums when I was two,” said Hollins.

“And then, my older brother gave me a saxophone that his son didn’t want, and I just began to teach myself how to play.

“I started bringing my saxophone to church and playing along with the musicians. That’s when I discovered I could play by ear.”

In the seventh grade, Hollins attended Whitehaven’s Hillcrest High School, where the music teacher recognized his gift. By the eighth grade, Hollins’ music teacher had taught him how to read music.

It was then that Hollins knew music, in some form, would be his career.

“I was greatly impacted by the power of a teacher who not only nurtured my gift, but challenged me to a standard of excellence,” said Hollins. “I didn’t know it then, but I gained great respect for the power of teaching that would guide my steps later on.”

A show of appreciation...

Zion CME Church honored Crump Elementary School teachers and staff with trophies for the 8th Annual Teacher Appreciation Luncheon.

Shown from left are: Zion Pastor LeRoy Payne Jr., Carolyn Jackson, Crump’s school administrator, Esther Isom, Doris Williamson, and retired CME Bishop Henry M. Williamson Sr. (Photo

by Tyrone Easley/ The New Tri-State Defender)

Pastor Kenneth Hollins wears two hats: pastor and teacher, and they fit together perfectly, he says. (Courtesy photos)

“Men make a tremendous difference in the classroom, no matter what they are teaching. Their impact is even greater in underserved communities, where fathers are mostly absent from the home.”

— Kenneth Hollins Hollins is a native Memphian, whose mother dabbled in music during the 1970s, and whose father was a pastor.

Hollins was invited to play at various churches growing up.

After graduating from Whitehaven High School in 1995, Hollins earned a bachelors in music and a minor in education from the University of Memphis five years later.

“With my music degree in hand, I was ready to pursue a professional career, on the road,” said Hollins. “The reason I said becoming a teacher was an accident is because I had friends who would ask me to teach them how to play.

“I developed little techniques to make learning easier. They said I had a gift for teaching. After spending a me in LA (Los Angeles), I returned home … God was

showing me the path that I should take.

That path was in Memphis.”

Today, Hollins teaches all things music at LaRose Elementary School. Youngsters learn the basics of music, “the universal language.”

“Every day I go to school, it’s hard to believe I have such an awesome job,” said Hollins. “I am reminded of the nurture and care that goes into teaching. A teacher impacted my life when I was young, and I strive to make a difference in these students’ lives.

“Men make a tremendous difference in the classroom, no matter what they are teaching. Their impact is even greater in underserved communities, where fathers are mostly absent from the home.”

Hollins particularly notes the exception-

al effect Black male teachers have in the classroom. Boys and girls get to see a caring, responsible man who is “investing into their lives, almost like a father would.”

“After slavery, white church denominations sponsored schools for former slaves and their children,” said Hollins. “Many teachers were the pastors and trustees of those schools because they were literate men.

“They were our first teachers. We appreciate the great job women are doing in the classroom. But I think Black men as leaders of our community should consider teaching. Their presence is powerful.”

That explains the teaching career. How did Hollins become a pastor? That was more intentional than accident.

“About eight years ago, I perceived that a call to preach was in my life as well,” said Hollins. “I mean, it was on me. I couldn’t sleep, and I couldn’t shake it.

“Then, I talked to my wife, Paula, and we prayed about it together. We started a weekly Bible study on Tuesday evening.

People began to come and tell us they wanted to be a part of what we were doing.”

As a result, he founded Overcoming Faith Christian Church.

The New Tri-State Defender, May 18 - 24, 2023, Page 6

Memphis music icon Joyce Cobb displayed her on-stage style: poised, polished, and graceful. (Photos: William Weeks/The New Tri-State Defender)

An Ode to Memphis: Sunset Jazz @ Court Square Park

by Candace A. Gray

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

“Memphus, Memphis Tennessee…Memphus, looks so good to me…”

The inaugural Sunset Jazz @ Court Square Park concert, featuring the incomparable Joyce Cobb and her four-piece band, was ladened with memorable moments.

But this song, which seemed somewhat freestyled at first, but clearly had been carefully crafted before that day, stayed with me even after the sun set.

On Mother’s Day (May 14) a diverse crowd of some 300 people created a natural amphitheater-like half-moon around the pavilion at 62. N. Main and Jefferson.

As a sweet breeze floated by, the band started performing starting at 6 p.m.

Cobb, a Memphis music icon, the red glasses-wearing, whitehaired featured artist for the show, had a poised, polished, and graceful style.

It’s not surprising since she’s a trained pianist, who has fronted bands since the 1970s.

The lyrics to jazz, blues and other soul songs rolled off her lips like smooth silk. But it was more than words that she shared with the crowd.

Cobb also shared melodies and notes from her harmonica, shakes from her cabasa, beats from her tambourine and prayers from her heart.

Her band brought the rhythm of the night, complete with players who had mastered the fiddle, lead guitar, bass guitar, electric drums, and flute. And a guest harmonicist from Newcastle, England joined from time to time.

Cobb started the free concert with “I Got Rhythm.” She belted out song after song, jazz standards, blues and more. She, the

Sunset Jazz series curator and artist, Deb Swiney. last artist to be signed to Stax Records before it folded, is known for playing an eclectic mix of music. Every song was enjoyable, from start to finish.

About 45 minutes into the concert, series curator and fellow artist Deb Swiney hopped on stage to start the intermission. She provided a little history about the series, which started in 2018 as a pop-up situation, and shared how it grew into a real series in 2019.

And we know what happened in 2020-21 – the world shut down.

The series returned in 2022 and funding from Fat Tuesday, a new downtown restaurant, ensured that it’d return in 2023.

Swiney shared the Sunset Jazz @ Court Square program that outlined the rest of the second Sunday concerts from now through October.

A special moment arrived when Chuck O’Bannon, Swiney’s “Riffin’ on Jazz” podcast co-host, joined her on stage, surprising Cobb with a beautiful, oversized, framed photograph from 1976.

“That’s back when I had teeth,” Ms. Cobb yelled out.

O’Bannon photographed Cobb some 40-plus years ago when she was singing and swinging jazz on Beale Street and at Blues Alley.

O’Bannon said Memphians don’t celebrate her great contributions to our rich musical history enough.

He added, “Let’s give it up for

A diverse crowd reflected the unifying power of jazz and the sunset.

Joyce Cobb is in full-surprise mode after Chuck O’Bannon unveiled a photo of her from 1976. (Courtesy photo) Deb Swiney. She’s keeping Jazz alive in Memphis.”

When the show resumed with this “Memphis” song that captivated me, Cobb invited the guest harmonicist back on stage and

said, “People from England come to Memphis to play the blues.”

Memphis is a magical and musical place. That’s why Mark Cohn wrote “Walking in Memphis,” which Ms. Cobb covered

on one of her albums.

“He won a Grammy for this – it should have been me!” Ms. Cobb said. The crowd roared in laughter.

As she sang “Walking in Memphis,” the electric drums went wild, and the fiddle wailed for those who find a home and prayer in Memphis. Then I heard it again…

“Memphus…Memphis, Tennessee…Memphus, looks so good to me.” Ms. Cobb loves Memphis, and her band.

She shared the lead mic with Kent Suggs, her guitar player. Her drummer joined her for a scat.

And her bass player, Jimmy Arnold, did a bossa nova tune they play at Bosco’s, where they’ve played Sunday jazz brunch for 22-plus years.

“It pays the rent,” inserted Ms. Cobb. “They have good food and good beer!”

The remaining concerts in the series are June 11, July 9, Aug. 13, Sept. 9-10 and Oct. 8.

The New Tri-State Defender

May 18 - 24, 2023

ENTERTAINMENT

‘White Burgers, Black Cash’ delivers a chunk of food for thought

by Terri Schlichenmeyer

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Hold the pickles, no mustard.

Double patty, add bacon, fried onions, that’s how you like your burger. As for chicken, well, it has to have cheese, and there must be something salty-crunchy on the side or it’s not a complete meal. Yeah, Mom could sure cook but not like this, and in the new book “White Burgers, Black Cash” by Naa Oya A. Kwate, you’ll see why fast food was slow to come to Black communities.

Though restaurants certainly existed before the turn of the last century, fast food joints “took root in the early 1900s, when the earliest...chains began.” White Castle, with their oniony square burgers, is widely considered to be the first; later, KFC, Burger King, and McDonald’s became the juggernauts of the industry, and something set them apart.

The first fast food restaurants, says Kwate, “did not include Black folks,” whether explicitly or implicitly when restaurants weren’t built in their areas. While highend establishments and wealthier homes employed Black waiters, fast food was “almost exclusively White,” from kitchen to booth.

In the 1920s, though, franchisees started noticing that they were leaving money on the table. Slowly, fast food restaurants were built in areas once ignored – possibly, says Kwate, for profit or perhaps because developers saw it as a way to keep Black diners from White neighborhoods.

There was controversy about the new additions – citizens of both races thought the restaurants were “a nuisance.” After a time, some already-established restaurants were accidentally found in Black neighborhoods because of “White flight.”

By the latter half of the 1960s, Black

investors were finally invited to buy in as franchisees; in addition, some White operators were ordered by their home franchise to sell a percentage of their sites to Black citizens.

This led closer to the Naa Oya equality Black operaA. Kwate tors wanted, but with a price: by the turn of this century, “studies began to mount... showing that residential proximity to fast food mattered for health.”

“Black youth,” says Kwate, “were especially at risk.”

Looking for something light to read while you enjoy your basket meal with onion rings? This book is interesting, but it isn’t like that.

Like a triple-patty super-sized sandwich, “White Burgers, Black Cash is much heavier than you might expect, at first glance.

Author Naa Oyo A. Kwate dives deep into her subject, beginning years before the first White Castle opened – and that narrative includes neighborhood names, street names, and competitors’ locations, which likely won’t mean much to many readers.

There are pictures in here but those, too, often have inadequate context.

Still, it’s worth biting into this book because of its wider focus on racism and what White America was doing at this time, and its inclusion of other, more social history that’s relevant to this subject.

Readers who can consume this book slowly, and chew on its information with careful thought will get more out of it than those who want a fast book about fast food.

“White Burgers, Black Cash” deserves more cogitation, and you won’t even need fries with that.

“White Burgers, Black Cash: Fast Food from Black Exclusion to Exploitation”

by Naa Oyo A. Kwate c. 2023, University of Minnesota Press $29.95 451 pages

Page 7

COMMUNITY The New Tri-State Defender, May 18 - 24, 2023, Page 8

MEMFix powers up for South City celebration TSD Newsroom SCORE CDC and BLDG Memphis will present South City MEMFix on Saturday (May 20). The theme of the community day event is “History Lives Here: Progress, Prosperity, Purpose.”

Set for 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., South City MEMFix will take place at the intersection of Georgia Ave./Lauderdale/Mississippi Blvd. adjacent to Booker T. Washington High School.

“South City is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Memphis,” said SCORE CDC Executive Director Rebecca Mat-

lock Hutchinson. “It’s full of culture and amazing people. SCORE CDC exists to spotlight the area’s positives, assist local entrepreneurs, and develop community leaders.”

South City MEMFix, which is free, will feature live entertainment, food, art, vendors, games and a kid’s zone. Other activities will include historians sharing stories about South City.

MEMFix, which was created by BLDG Memphis (formerly Livable Memphis) in 2010, is a series of community events held in neighborhoods throughout the city.

The goal is to engage existing businesses and residents to display how active re-

tail, high-quality public spaces, and great street design can drive neighborhood economic vitality.

Community members also use the events to bring attention to overlooked spaces, address neighborhood issues, or demonstrate desired changes or improvements within public or private spaces.

SCORE (South City, a Community of Opportunity, Revitalization, and Empowerment) CDC is a part of BLDG Memphis’s Community Navigator Pilot Program (CNPP), which helps support the development and redevelopment of healthy, vibrant, attractive, and economically sustainable neighborhoods. South City is funded

by a grant from BLDG Memphis and the Small Business Administration.

“Several of Memphis’s best and brightest come from South City,” said Hutchinson. “We’re grateful for this opportunity, and we’re looking forward to sharing our rich history and showcasing local entrepreneurs.”

South City was established in 1864 and is located directly southeast of Memphis’s Central Business District. It spans about 880 acres and contains the 38126 and 38106 zip codes.

Rebecca Matlock Hutchinson

(For more information, visit www.scorecdc.org. Or, call 901-504-5392.)

Memphis-made film on The People’s Convention wins international award

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

“UNITED FRONT – The People’s Convention 1991 Memphis” reaped the Best Film Documentary Production Award at the 37th Annual Black International Cinema Berlin Film Festival.

Produced and directed by Memphis-based filmmaker and radio personality, Chuck O’Bannon, “United Front” beat out independent film entries from around the globe.

The festival was presented in November and December of 2022, broadcasting entries in Europe, Africa, and Asia. The Award was announced earlier this month.

“I thought, ‘Wow, is this really happening?” said O’Bannon. “And my, what a wonderful surprise it was.”

“United Front” is the story of the 1991 People’s Convention, which led to Memphis’ first elected AfricanAmerican Mayor Dr. Willie W. Herenton.

Executive Producer Anniece Robinson wrote the script and funded the project. The documentary features live footage from the actual convention, as well as present-day interviews of those who participated in the event, including Herenton, Dr. Bill Adkins, former City Councilman Shep Wilbun, and the late Tennessee State Rep. Barbara Cooper.

“Initially, we did not set out to make a full documentary,” said O’Bannon. “I got a call from Anniece in February of 2021 about producing some type of commemoration of the convention’s 30th anniversary.

“I had so many other projects already working, I told Anniece the only way I would even consider it is that someone wrote the script. Well, Anniece sent the script a few days later. It was so outstanding that I had to do this documentary.”

O’Bannon wanted to capture the drama and authentic spirit of the convention, which he said was not always pretty.

“It got pretty ugly,” said O’Bannon.

“But when you look at the event as a whole, it is the story of how one day, Black leaders and community delegates got together and ironed out, hashed out, fought it out, until they came out on one accord. And Dr. Herenton was the consensus candidate.”

Robinson’s husband, Arthur Robinson, recorded hours, and hours of convention footage, which he now has in its entirety.

Anniece Robinson said the 2021 project was a divine mandate.

“As we were coming up on the 30th anniversary, the Lord gave me a spiritual assignment,” said Anniece Robinson. “Do something with this, God was telling me. So, when I asked Chuck to produce it, he wanted someone to write the script. I stayed up three days and nights writing that script in March.

Chuck O’Bannon learned earlier this month that “United Front,” which he produced and directed, won the Best Film Documentary Production Award at the 37th Annual Black International Cinema Berlin Film Festival. (Courtesy photos) Chuck loved it, but it was clear we were not going to have a project of that caliber finished by April.

That’s how it became a much bigger project.”

Anniece Robinson Robinson said the idea of a People’s Convention came from (the later) Teddy Withers, a former Tennessee state representative and major figure in Memphis politics at that time.

“There were four of us meeting in my backyard in 1990,” said Anniece Robinson. “That was Teddy, Shep, (the late) Vernon Ash, and myself.

“Everyone had seen what happened to Teddy in the mayoral election. There were too many Black candidates dividing the Black vote, and the white candidate just slipped right through. We couldn’t get a Black mayor although there was a majority Black population. We were too divided.”

Everybody was talking about it, but no one was doing anything, Anniece Robinson said. Withers had been blackballed, so it was assumed he would not run.

“The planning of the convention continued, although the Ford political machine was against it,” said Anniece Robinson. “Even before getting to the actual convention, it got dirty with Teddy. And I mean knock-down, drag-out dirty.

“But Teddy continued planning behind the scenes, talking with different ones, including Dr. Herenton. The People’s Convention gathered steam, and on April 27, 1991, it happened.”

Various communities sent delegates to the People’s Convention, on the same order that the Democratic Convention is run, Anniece Robinson said. The Mid-South Coliseum was the setting. From about 8 a.m. until 3 p.m., the political wrangling went on.

But in the end, strategists, activists, and delegates found a united voice.

“United Front” has been selected for showing at the Greenwood Film Festival in Tulsa, Oklahoma in August.

Candace Tate (third from the left after drummer Ekpe Abioto) said the Historic First Orange Mound Children’s Book Festival was “my way of giving back to a community who gave so much to me.”

(Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender)

Orange Mound book fest opens ‘a whole new world’ for children

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Candace Tate remembers when she discovered the wonderful adventures that can be found in books.

“I fell in love with reading as I explored all the incredible things you can experience in books,” said Tate.

“I grew up … in Orange Mound, where our teachers were completely invested in our education…”

On May 6, that exploration was given a communitywide boost by way of the “Historic First Orange Mound Children’s Book Festival” at the Orange Mound Community Center.

Tate wanted the festival to reenforce what reading taught her — value of learning, the ability to communicate, speaking well, reading, and her love for children’s books.

As the confab opened, it was lost on no one all that the event means to Orange Mound, said Tate.

“Ekpe’s drumming opened up the festival,” said Tate. “Not only was his book, ‘Don’t Touch A Gun” being offered, but his gifts as a musical artist were also on display.

“A book festival for children happens in communities in Collierville and Bartlett. But never does anything like that come to Orange Mound. I wanted to change that.

“It’s my way of giving back to a community who gave so much to me.”

After graduating from Melrose High School, Tate went to Los Angeles because she wanted to attend UCLA. But as it happened, Tate’s college freshman year was spent at Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles.

“Like so many freshmen, I had to come back home because I was doing a little too much partying,” Tate said, laughing as she remembered her freshman year. My parents sent me to LeMoyne-Owen College.

Local authors and artists put reading pleasure in the hands of young attendees.

LeMoyne-Owen sent me to Africa, where I saw the art of storytelling as both entertainment and a way of passing along oral history. We want to create a world of great, young communicators.”

Featured were authors and artists in Memphis. Many people were surprised that Tate used all local authors.

“We have such a wealth of writing talent and creative energy,” said Tate. There was no need for us to add any more authors. The great authors and artists here in Memphis offered so many featured works. I wish more people had been able to see what the book festival was all about. Everything was great.”

Tate’s communication skills have taken her around the world. She has experienced different cultures, which were not so strange to her because of the books she read.

A sojourn to Africa’s Ghana inspired Tate’s entrenchment into the mysteries and riches of the continent’s Gold Coast.

She witnessed the orator and storytelling of a griot pronounced (gree-oh), who recounted the

history of his village, stating the name of every person born and native to that village since the birth of the village.

“He never paused throughout the entire village history,” said Tate. “That whole experience was life-changing for me. It was here that I discovered the true power of storytelling and the spoken word…”

As an English major, Tate has used her degree in the corporate environment for more than 40 years in several professional writing roles, including senior technical writer, senior proposal writer, and human resources manager.

She has traveled around the world as a corporate instructor and has worked on such high-profile projects as the roll out of the Affordable Healthcare Act (ACA), commonly known as “Obama Care” for consumers and small businesses in the Baltimore-Washington D.C area.

Now, relocated back to, Tate recently launched a new nonprofit organization, “Artsy Letters,” to rekindle her passion for all things literacy.

The New Tri-State Defender

Gestalt Community Schools (GCS) is accepting bids for Instructional Materials/Tools, Digital Curriculum, Tutoring Platforms, Before-Aftercare Services, Security Services, and all technology-related equipment, including laptops, iPads, laptop carts, and protective coverings that support in-person learning for students in grades K-12. GCS is a public charter school organization that serves students in Shelby County, TN. Proposals must be received

by COB Friday, May 26, 2023. To request an RFP, please email us at bids@gestaltcs.org.

LEGAL NOTICE Request for Bids MSCAA Project Number 19-1423-29-01 Terminal A Ticket Counter Replacement - Construction Sealed bids for Terminal A Ticket Counter Replacement Construction will be received by the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority (Authority), Procurement Department, 4150 Louis Carruthers Drive, Memphis, TN 38118, until 2:00 PM Local Time on Thursday, June 15, 2023. Bids will not be received at any other location. Within 30 minutes thereafter, the bids will be opened and publicly read via phone/video conference (Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82527 010992?pwd=eUNaRzQ3QXZiUD VWaGdOMGJDS0txUT09; Phone: 1-301-715-8592, Meeting ID: 825 2701 0992, Passcode: 793222).

The Bid Documents, including a description of the scope of work, the required response format, and additional instructions may be obtained on or after May 18, 2023, online at https://flymemphis. com/rfps-rfqs/.

A virtual Pre-Bid Meeting will be held Tuesday May 30th at 11:00 AM local time via phone/ video conference (Link: https:// us06web.zoom.us/j/85899070231 ?pwd=YmFlM1IyeVNNblIwY0lBSF RiNHluQT09; Phone: + 1 646 931 3860; Meeting ID: 858 9907 0231; Passcode: 601958). Attendance at the Pre-Bid Meeting is strongly recommended. The project site will be available for inspection on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM local time.

All Bidders are responsible for checking the Authority’s website up to the submission deadline for any updates, addenda or additional information.

The successful Bidder must sign a contract with the Authority that includes Federal Aviation Administration provisions, if applicable, regarding the Buy American Preference, Foreign Trade Restriction, Davis-Bacon, Affirmative Action, Debarment and Suspension, and DrugFree Workplace, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Each bid must be made by a contractor licensed in Tennessee and be accompanied by a 5% Bid Guarantee. The successful bidder must execute a Performance Bond and a Payment Bond in the amount of 100% each of the Contract Price and meet the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation goal for this project, which is 18%.

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

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

By order of: Scott A. Brockman, A.A.E. President and CEO Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority LEGAL NOTICE Request for Bids MSCAA Project Number 12-1353-01 Charles Baker - Terminal Construction Sealed bids for Charles Baker - Terminal - Construction will be received by the MemphisShelby County Airport Authority (Authority), Procurement Department, 4150 Louis Carruthers Drive, Memphis, TN 38118, until 2:00 PM Local Time on Thursday, June 1, 2023.

Bids will not be received at any other location. Within 30 minutes thereafter, the bids will be opened and publicly read via phone/video conference.

(Link: https://us06web.zoom. us/j/89307038982?pwd=Mnl2eG FneTkvdjRpZlNnYjU2WnFsQT09; Phone: +1 301 715 8592, Meeting ID: 893 0703 8982, Passcode: 152238). The Bid Documents, including a description of the scope of work, the required response format, and additional instructions may be obtained on or after April 21, 2023 online at www. flymemphis.com.

An additional virtual Pre-Bid Meeting will be held Tuesday May 23rd at 2:00 PM local time via phone/video conference (Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83669 692088?pwd=eVBRSkNXbVNOa0 VJMjhxRnJTV3lOQT09; Phone: +1 646 876 9923; Meeting ID: 836 6969 2088;

Passcode: 517960). Attendance at the Pre-Bid Meeting is strongly recommended. The project site will be available for inspection by appointment only.

All Bidders are responsible for checking the Authority’s website up to the submission deadline for any updates, addenda or additional information.

The successful Bidder must sign a contract with the Authority that includes Federal Aviation Administration provisions, if applicable, regarding the Buy American Preference, Foreign Trade Restriction, Davis-Bacon, Affirmative Action, Debarment and Suspension, and DrugFree Workplace, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Each bid must be made by a contractor licensed in Tennessee and be accompanied by a 5% Bid Guarantee. The successful bidder must execute a Performance Bond and a Payment Bond in the amount of 100% each of the Contract Price and meet the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation goal for this project, which is 28%.

The Authority reserves the right to reject any or all responses to this Request for Bids in whole or in part; to waive any informalities, technicalities, or omissions related to this Request for Bids; and to reject responses on any other basis authorized by the Authority’s purchasing policies. This project is funded under a grant contract with the State of Tennessee.

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

By order of: Scott A. Brockman, A.A.E. President and CEO Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority

NOTICE 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: Jada Johnson Tax Parcel #: 04202800000010 Tax Sale #: 1803 Price Offered: $34,300.00 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 11:00 a.m. on June 20, 2023, 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 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150 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: Williams Realty & Investments LLC Tax Parcel #: 07304400000550 Tax Sale #: 1703 Price Offered: $$12,000.00 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 10:30 a.m. on June 20, 2023, 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 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150 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: Williams Realty & Investments LLC Tax Parcel #: 0730410H000340 Tax Sale #: 1803 Price Offered: $$9, 500.00 Terms: Cash

May 18 - 24, 2023

Page 9

CLASSIFIEDS THE NEW TRI-STATE DEFENDER CLASSIFIEDS

1509 Madison Ave. Memphis, TN 38104 PH (901) 523-1818 HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

DEADLINES: Display ads Friday 5 p.m.

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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.

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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 June 20, 2023, 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 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150 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: Williams Realty & Investments LLC Tax Parcel #: 05815300000090 Tax Sale #: 1801 Price Offered: $$11,500.00 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 June 20, 2023, 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 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150 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: Williams Realty & Investments LLC Tax Parcel #: 09004500000300 Tax Sale #: 1803 Price Offered: $$9,000.00 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 9:00 a.m. on June 20, 2023, 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 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150 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: Williams Realty & Investments LLC Tax Parcel #: 08400500000110 Tax Sale #: 1802 Price Offered: $$6,400.00 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 3:00 p.m. on June 16, 2023, 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

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of any sort.

Shelby County Land Bank 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150 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: Williams Realty & Investments LLC Tax Parcel #: 07702700000050 Tax Sale #: 1703 Price Offered: $$13,000.00 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 2:30 p.m. on June 16, 2023, 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 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150 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: Williams Realty & Investments LLC Tax Parcel #: 0730880A000760 Tax Sale #: 1702 Price Offered: $$12,200.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice.

If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 2:00 p.m. on June 16, 2023, 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 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150 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: Williams Realty & Investments LLC Tax Parcel #: 07507300000210 Tax Sale #: 1802 Price Offered: $$5,500.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice.

If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 1:30 p.m. on June 16, 2023, 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 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150 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: Williams Realty & Investments LLC Tax Parcel #: 09000200000290 Tax Sale #: 1801 Price Offered: $$7900.00 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 June 16, 2023, 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 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150

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: Yaveda Nesby Tax Parcel #: 0720220E000510 Tax Sale #: 1803 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 9:30 a.m. on June 16, 2023, 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 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150 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: Jerrod Love Tax Parcel #: 04002700000490 Tax Sale #: 1802 Price Offered: $4900.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice.

If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 9:00 a.m. on June 16, 2023, 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 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150

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: Williams Realty & Investments LLC Tax Parcel #: 07507700000090 Tax Sale #: 1803 Price Offered: $$4600.00 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 June 16, 2023, 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 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150

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SPORTS The New Tri-State Defender, May 18 - 24, 2023, Page 10

Memphis Grizzlies’ get-better moves just got more daunting possibly not trading Jones.

by Terry Davis

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

The expectation heading into summer was that the Memphis Grizzlies would make a strong push to be more competitive next season and go deeper into the NBA playoffs. Now, any plans along those lines may have to be altered – dramatically – given the recent actions of twotime All-Star Guard Ja Morant.

For the second time this year, Morant popped up in an online video with a gun in his hand.

In a tightly-worded statement, the Grizzlies announced Morant’s indefinite suspension pending further investigation.

In addition to the torrent of reaction throughout the league, the media and various portals and platforms, everyday conversations are awash in “Ja talk.” The likelihood of a second suspension is a sure bet. That leaves the Grizzlies organization with already tough decisions that are made more complicated at this point because of the uncertainty of the coming suspension.

While Morant does not appear to have appeared broken any laws, his latest escapade sets him up for disciplinary action under the league’s authority to act in response to actions deemed detrimental to the league. The Grizzlies’ need to get better means that the front office has to figure out how to do so with that heavy backdrop.

That means revisiting the drawing board and

Roster moves It was widely anticipated that backup point guard Tyus Jones would be used as trade material to improve the roster. If Jones is traded, it would force shooting Terry guard Desmond Bane to Davis play more at the point and take him away from the shooting guard spot. Bane had surgery on his toe this week and is expected to be ready by the start of the season.

Luke Kennard could conceivably handle the point position but that would mean moving him out of the much-needed role of designated three-point shooter.

Currently, there is only one open spot on the 15-man roster. Some of the young players the Grizzlies have signed likely will be traded or released in the off-season to make room for more veteran players.

While the defensive-minded Dillon Brooks has not been officially removed from the active roster, various outlets have him ruled out of returning next season. Looks like a sign-andtrade deal is in the future of one of the best wing defenders in the league.

Ziaire Williams and David Roddy – two of the younger players – and Brandon Clarke, who

Whether backup point guard Tyrus Jones goes or stays with the Grizzlies has been made more of a conundrum thanks to Ja Morant’s off-court antics. (Photo: Warren Roseborough/The New Tri-State Defender Archives) will be returning from a season-ending injury, may attract some attention.

And, the Grizzlies have a wealth of draft picks at their disposal.

The Grizzlies currently have three picks in this year’s draft: one first-round pick and two second-round picks. The second-round picks usually are players drafted to put on two-way contracts that don’t count against the 15-man roster.

Summer League Kenny Lofton Jr. broke out last summer and his continued development is a key part of the team. Jake Laravia, who was looked upon to

make a big impact last season, was up and down to the G-League team last season. The team wants him to be a spot-up consistent shooter similar to Kennard.

Big man Santi Aldama may not be with the team much this summer. He will be a member of the Spanish National Basketball team. The Grizzlies would like for him to build off the unexpected but welcomed contributions this past season. He needs to improve his strength in defending bigger players in the post.

Meanwhile, the wait is on for the Grizzlies as the NBA works through an investigation of the Morant’s matter. The number of games that Morant will miss could determine how the Grizzlies approach free agency.

Morant takes accountability for latest video NBA Commissioner Silver expresses disappointment

by Tim Reynolds The Associated Press

Ja Morant spoke out Tuesday night about his latest troubles, three days after the Memphis guard apparently held a firearm again while being broadcast on social media and was suspended by the Grizzlies from all team activities.

He’s also being investigated by the NBA for his actions, two months after the league suspended him for essentially the same thing — displaying a gun on social media.

“I know I’ve disappointed a lot of people who have supported me,” Morant said in a statement released Tuesday night by his representatives.

“This is a journey and I recognize there is more work to do. My words may not mean much right now, but I take full accountability for my actions. I’m committed to continuing to work on myself.”

His comments came a few hours after NBA Commissioner Adam Silver expressed disappointment over the situation. Silver handed down an eightgame suspension in March; there is no way of knowing yet what penalties Morant may face this time.

NBA “Honestly, I was shocked when I saw, this Commissioner Adam Silver weekend, that video,” Silver said in a televised interview with ESPN before the draft lottery in Chicago. “We’re in the process of investigating it and we’ll figure out exactly what happened as best as we can. The video’s a bit grainy and all that, but I’m assuming the worst. We’ll figure out exactly what happened there.”

The first video, which cost Morant about $669,000 in forfeited salary, came out in March.

The second was captured Saturday night and widely shared online. It was streamed on the Instagram account of Morant associate Davonte Pack, a person familiar with the situation told The Associated Press, speaking on condition of anonymity because the Grizzlies have not commented on the specifics of the latest video.

The video streamed by Pack shows Morant briefly appearing to display a handgun. At the very brief moment — maybe less than a second

Ja Morant went down hard in the Grizzlies’ opening-series loss to the Lakers, crashing to the floor late in the fourth quarter. He aggravated a hand injury and did not return (Photo: Karanja A. Ajanaku/The New Tri-State Defender Archives)

Ja Morant: “My words may not mean much right now, but I take full accountability for my actions. I’m committed to continuing to work on myself.” (Photo: Terry Davis/The New Tri-State Defender Archives)

“I know I’ve disappointed a lot of people who have supported me. This is a journey and I recognize there is more work to do. My words may not mean much right now, but I take full accountability for my actions. I’m committed to continuing to work on myself.”

— Ja Morant — when Morant is shown holding what appears to be a weapon as he sits in the passenger seat of a vehicle, the livestream had 111 viewers.

“He could have injured, maimed, killed himself, someone else, with an act like that,” Silver said. “And also the acknowledgement that he’s a star. He has an incredibly huge following. And my concern — and I thought he shared with me — that millions if not tens of millions of kids globally would see him as having done something that was celebrating in a way that act of using a firearm in that fashion.”

Morant said in March that he needed to work on himself, and when the season ended a couple

weeks ago, he offered similar thoughts.

“Being disciplined on both sides, off the court making better decisions and on the court being locked in even more,” Morant said. “Being a leader of this team, it pretty much starts with me. … I’ve got to be better in that area.”

Morant’s five-year, $194 million max contract is set to begin this coming season. He has deals with Nike and Powerade, though the sports drink company pulled an ad featuring Morant almost immediately after the March video emerged.

This is the third known NBA investigation surrounding Morant and the possible involve-

ment of firearms so far in 2023.

Morant’s actions were investigated after a Jan. 29 incident in Memphis that he said led to Pack banned from Grizzlies’ home games for a year. That incident followed a game against the Indiana Pacers; citing unnamed sources, The Indianapolis Star and USA Today reported that multiple members of the Pacers saw a red dot pointed at them while they were near the loading dock where their bus was located, and The Athletic reported that a Pacers security guard believed the laser was attached to a gun.

The NBA confirmed that unnamed individuals were banned from the arena but said its investigation found no evidence that anyone was threatened with a weapon.

Then came the Denver-area incident in the early hours of March 4, after the Grizzlies played a road game against the Nuggets when Morant started a livestream from inside a strip club while holding a gun. No charges were filed.

Morant and Pack also are involved in a civil lawsuit brought after an incident at Morant’s home last summer, in which a then-17-year-old alleged that they assaulted him. Morant filed a countersuit on April 12, accusing the teen of slander, battery and assault.