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June 17 - 23, 2021
VOL. 70, No. 24
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COVID-19 UPDATE
As COVID restrictions come down, Memphians are happy to get out by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
Playwright Katori Hall poses for a portrait in front of the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre in New York on Sept, 21, 2011. Hall won the Pulitzer Prize for drama for her play “The Hot Wing King.” (AP Photo/Charles Sykes, File)
‘P-Valley’ creator and Memphis native captures Pulitzer Prize
by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
Award-winning playwright Katori Hall, who recently won a 2021 Pulitzer Prize for drama, always was a go-getter. “So thankful for this recognition of The Hot Wing King,” Hall tweeted after the announcement. “Hugs to my amazing NY theatre home Signature Theatre and my director Steve Broadnax III who helmed a magnificent cast and crew. Shout out to my brothers Wayne and Charles whose love inspired this. It’s Memphis made, mane!” She was a laser-focused and determined
young lady at Craigmont High School, according to her then-senior guidance counselor, Janet Thompson. “I knew Katori well,” said Thompson. “She would drop by almost daily with requests for transcripts and recommendations as she completed her college applications. “Katori was Craigmont’s first African-American valedictorian in the school’s history. Katori would talk about wanting to spread her wings and move beyond North Memphis.” And move beyond North Memphis, Hall did. It was announced last week that she had
won a Pulitzer for her stage play “The Hot Wing King.” Hall’s work beat out two other finalists: “Circle Jerk” by Michael Breslin and Patrick Foley, and “Stew” by Zora Howard. The Pulitzer committee released a statement, calling “The Hot Wing King” a “funny deeply felt consideration of Black masculinity and how it is perceived, filtered through the experiences of a loving gay couple and their extended family as they prepare for a culinary competition.” The production was running at Pershing Square Signature Center in New York City
On June 4, a big line-dancing brought dozens out to the North Branch Library on Vollintine. This past Saturday, more than 100 patrons came back to celebrate at the “I Love Music and Museum Jam Session.” “Since the pandemic hit, we have only been able to sponsor virtual events online to keep everyone safe,” said Johnnie Mosley, a librarian at the North Branch. “We missed our community, and they seem to have missed us just as much. “Everyone was just happy to get out after being shut up for a year,” she said. Last Saturday, the last vestiges of restriction were lifted off businesses and other public venues, with an updated health directive taking effect Saturday at midnight. That means everyday people are enjoying freedom from business restrictions too. Shelby County declared that more than 70 percent of Shelby County residents have immunity status, either by vaccination, or by surviving the virus and carrying COVID-fighting antibodies in their blood. Larry Springfield, who opened the SugaShack on Beale Street in the early days of the pandemic, was elated things are “beginning to get back to normal.” “We opened on May 29 of last year, so we started out being restricted by the health mandates,” he said. “We were closing at 10 p.m. on weekdays, and at midnight on the weekends. “Now, we are open until 1 a.m.,” Springfield said. “It got hard, but we are coming out
SEE COVID ON PAGE 2
SEE PULITZER ON PAGE 2
How BLP Studios was born to tell ‘our’ stories by Karanja A. Ajanaku kajanaku@tsdmemphis.com
Venturing to bring home to me the practicality of building an 85-acre movie campus owned by African Americans, Jason Farmer had me imagine telling – via a film – the story of The New Tri-State Defender. “If I wanted to shoot the story about the TriState Defender, I can’t come down to your office for 10 days or 14 days and shoot,” he said. “I have to work around your schedule, maybe two or three o’clock in the morning, maybe two, three o’clock in the afternoon, and that may or may not fit with everything.” The more practical thing is to come out to BLP Film Studios, take soundstage number two, go in and build out the Tri-State Defender offices, he said. “Now you can shoot around the clock and you can tell the story about the Tri-State Defender, get in and out and get that project done. …Heretofore, Memphis has not had that capacity.” That’s the path envisioned for Black Lens Productions (BLP) Film Studios by the founder/CEO. Farmer’s partners are Chief Financial Officer Carolyn Henry and Cecelia Barnes, general counsel. The inspiration is Farmer’s college-age son, Jason Farmer II, whose mid-
dle-school desire to be a creative in the film industry is the stuff of which, well, movies are made. BLP Film Studios is for real. Farmer and crew have secured land in Whitehaven, gotten the OK from the Land Use Control Board, lined up public and private support and now are nailing down the finance details. I had lots of questions, too many, in fact, for the time allotted me. Among the basics was one that drew this answer: “We are currently on course to break ground … late fall of this year. …The complete buildout of the facility will take 24 to 30 months. It’s a phased project. So we can have some working facilities as early as this time next summer.” I’d learned that Farmer, a seasoned business man with no previous movie-industry experience, had roots in the Foote Homes. I asked what he wanted to be as he grew up in that public housing development. He mentally took me to 413 Vance (Ave.), Apt. C. in the shadows of Progressive Baptist Church. The funeral home that processed the remains of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. after he was assassinated was right out the front door. His blue-collar, working-class family received commodities at Historic Clayborn Temple. Many of
SEE STUDIO ON PAGE 2
Now in charge! … The first woman to lead the Memphis Police Department was welcomed on Monday (June 14) as she began her first day on the job. Mayor Jim Strickland pins new Memphis Police Chief Cerleyn “C.J.” Davis with the symbol of her authority. (Photo: Twitter) BLP Film Studios founder/CEO Jason Farmer, with partners Carolyn Henry (left) and Cecelia Barnes, at the 85-acre Whitehaven site on course to house the second-largest, Black-owned film studio in the United States. (Courtesy photo)
The New Tri-State Defender
June 17 - 23, 2021
Page 2
NEWS PULITZER
CONTINUED FROM FRONT in early 2020 when its run was cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic. “Katori would talk about moving to a big city, where her dreams could flourish,” said Thompson. “She wanted to be in New York City to absorb the energy and just live in the excitement. That is why she chose Columbia. If you are valedictorian, there are some full scholarships offered to you automatically. One is the University of Memphis. But, Katori was seriously focused on her aspirations.” At Columbia, Hall earned her de-
gree in both African-American Studies and Creative Writing. She went on to Harvard University and earned a master’s degree in Fine Arts. Hall later studJanet ied to complete Thompson a graduate diploma at the renowned Juilliard School, a private, performing arts conservatory in New York. Hall boasts a number of prestigious awards and accolades, including: a Laurence Olivier Award, Susan
Smith Blackburn Award, Lark Play Development Center Playwrights of New York (PONY) Fellowship, two Lecompte du Nouy Prizes from Levi Lincoln Center, Frazier Jr. Fellowship of Southern Writers Bryan Family Award in Drama, NYFA Fellowship. Also, the Columbia University John Jay Award for Distinguished Professional Achievement, National Black Theatre’s August Wilson
Playwriting Award, and the Lorraine Hansberry Playwriting Award. Hall also is known for her work as the executive producer for “P-Valley,” a breakout hit series on STARZ. Hall also gained important critical acclaim for writing both “The Mountaintop” and “Tina: The Tina Turner Musical.” Associate Professor of Fine Arts Levi Frazier Jr. at Southwest Tennessee Community College was delighted that a Memphis native has reached such heights. “I think it is just wonderful,” said Frazier. “I was telling my students about her, that she is a Memphis girl. It is so inspiring and refreshing that this young lady from Memphis just
STUDIO
COVID
the striking sanitation workers of 1968 “lived in my neighborhood.” Farmer’s mother worked security and did janitorial work for First Tennessee Bank. She brought home discarded law books from one of the firms in the building. Her son started to read them as he learned to read and set course to be an attorney. “My mom instilled in us the ability to dream,” he said. “That was her greatest gift to us. Eventually, that got us out of the projects and we moved into the Whitehaven, Westwood area.” That, he said, is the genesis of believing “that if you can dream and you put in the work, that you can make those dreams a reality.” Farmer made it clear: he and the BLP team have put in the work. With his son continually saying he wanted to be in the film industry, Farmer and supporters started asking “questions out of desperation.” Research yielded the realization that there were just as many opportunities behind the camera and that behind-the-camera opportunities could effectuate opportunities in front of the lens.” Now, he said, James Farmer II can “come back and fill out an application … we’ll have a place for him to come and do that.” Collectively, Farmer has known his two key partners for about 30 years, meeting Barnes at Mr. Vernon Baptist Church-Westwood (she was about 10), and Barnes introducing him to Henry. “I needed some people on that core team that I could depend on. Once I explained the vision to them and they saw it, they wanted to be a part of it.” Henry, who is from Clarksdale, Mississippi, came to Memphis to attend Christian Brothers University. She fell in love with the city and still does 35 years later. Barnes went to Duke University as an undergrad and then on to law school at Vanderbilt. Memphis afforded her opportunities not advanced elsewhere. She, too, loves Memphis. “When Jason let me see what was going on with BLP and the potential to just impact this city, I left my job and I said, ‘I’m on board. I want to give back to this city what it has giv-
on the other side. We made it through.” Springfield, who has worked as a front man for R&B bands, hosts live music on the weekends at SugaShack. Patrons are happy to be able to come in and sit down to enjoy a meal, some drinks, and live entertainment, according to Springfield. “We survived like other restaurants did,” said Springfield. “We had curbside service where people could pick up their food. When it was allowed, we had limited inside dining. Tables were closed, and seating was limited according to the safety standards required by the health department. We are looking forward to bigger crowds and happier times.” Back at the North Library, Mosley had the idea of hosting a jam session with live music for the community. The children’s librarian, Debra Dawson, wanted to host a walking museum with outdoor exhibits. “So I suggested we combine the events and that’s just what we did,” Mosley said. “People enjoyed the music. They danced and sang along with the bands. But they also went around to view the exhibits. Many of them told me they learned some new things from the walking museum.” There were museum representatives from the Afrikan Heritage and Cultural Center, Dr. Martin Luther King’ s Collection by Memphis historian, Dr. Michael Hollowell, and exhibits from the National Civil Rights Museum. “Our amazing branch manager, Tamika Parson, approved the proposed event, and it was more successful than we dreamed it would be,” Mosley said. “Now that we are coming out of this thing, we want to have more events that bring our community together there in North Memphis. This is truly a time to celebrate.” Some are choosing to proceed more slowly, with cautious optimism. At Red Robin’s Academy of Learning, the plan is to continue to enforce safety measures to keep her students safe. “Most of the staff has been vaccinated, but we are still wearing masks and continuing social distancing,” said owner Robin Mayweather. “Until the CDC issues a complete release of all restrictions and the health de-
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
grew and blossomed, receiving this kind of recognition.” Katori’s other works include the award-winning “Hurt Village,” “Hoodoo Love,” “Saturday Night/Sunday Morning,” “Our Lady of Kibeho,” and “The Blood Quilt.” She also is the director of the award-winning short “Arkabutla”. “I think it is notable that she embraces the Memphis community in her work,” said Thompson, her former high school guidance counselor. “Her work is centered on putting Memphis in the spotlight. I am so proud of her right now. That Pulitzer is well deserved.” Hall, 40, is married to Alan Tumusiime. They have two children.
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
Jason Farmer, with his son, Jason Farmer II, whose middle-school-expressed desire to be a creative in the film industry is the inspiration that has led to a well-researched journey to anchor BLP Film Studios in Whitehaven to tell “our” stories. (Courtesy photo) en to me.’ … So I am a Memphian, although I’m not a native.” Projections are for about 1,000 jobs, with dual-enrollment discussions underway with local educational entities to create opportunities to expose high school students to the industry. Other talks involve engagements with the Workforce Investment Network, the Black Business Association and the state of Tennessee. Expanded entry points are needed “so that we’ll have locally-trained staff and crew … able to work on these (film) projects. … “We will be very closely monitoring what’s going on in the participation level of Black people on this project, and we are committed that this will be a historical project in terms of the participation levels.” Data from the Ralph J. Bunche Center for African American Studies at UCLA has shown that “Black and brown consumers buy the most tickets, they stream the most services,
watch the most television, listen to the most radio, and they’re the most underserved,” Farmer said. As members of this particular segment have become more savvy, “they’re now demanding more content that’s catered to their needs, which are our needs. … And then what we oftentimes shy away from (is) Memphis being the largest majority Black suburban area in the United States … So it becomes easy to come here and build out an ecosystem where we can support projects and we can help them meet their diversity, equity, and inclusion means. “ At the same time, we can build economic prosperity in our communities while delivering a product that they need,” Farmer said. “BLP Film Studios was born.” (To learn more about BLP Film Studios, visit https://blpfilmstudios. com.)
partment follows suit, we will take every precaution, just as we have been doing. We take temperatures at the door, of both the child and the parent. The child comes in, and the parent heads the other way.” Medical facilities and offices have also continued the safety protocols to be extra cautious for their patients. Dr. Stanley Dowell of Methodist LeBonheur Healthcare said it’s good for those who have been vaccinated to be able to go without masks, but in his office, masking and other measures will remain in place. “We are continuing to check temperatures when patients come in, and we still do the questionnaire for everyone. We are waiting for the allclear from the CDC,” he said. “Most medical establishments are continuing to adhere to the safety guidelines. That will keep everyone as safe as possible. “But things are so much better than they were,” he continued. “At the height of infections, we were turning away two or three people a day, sending them to the hospital or the ER, because they were infected and could not come in. “Now, we hardly have to turn anyone away.”
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Michael Adrian Davis, a radio personality on “The Voice of SCS — 88.5 FM,” grabbed the mic to sing some “Down Home Blues” at the Memphis Library’s North Branch on Vollintine. More than 100 people came to the library’s recent “I Love Music and Museum Jam Session.” Joining Davis for the jam were bandleader Rickey Mosley (left), and Davis’ mother, Evelyn Stamp Taylor (right), a local author who celebrated her 85th birthday at the event. (Courtesy photo)
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June 17 - 23, 2021
The New Tri-State Defender
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PERSPECTIVE The New Tri-State Defender, June 17 - 23, 2021, Page 4
Jimmy Crow wears a golf shirt and khaki pants. He carries a tiki torch in place of a burning cross. Jimmy’s not content with suppressing and diluting the Black vote; he wants the power to ignore election results altogether if he doesn’t like the outcome.
Meet Jimmy Crow, Insurrectionist and Suppressor, Heir to Jim and James Crow By Marc H. Morial ”The lie of massive, rampant voter fraud is serving the same function today as it did during the rise of Jim Crow. It stokes fear in a segment of the population that democracy is in peril, and thus provides cover for laws that target Black voters with race-neutral language in the 21st century.” — Sherrilyn Ifill, president and director-counsel, NAACP Legal Defense Fund Meet Jimmy Crow. You may remember Jimmy’s grandfather, Jim Crow. Jim sometimes wore a hood and a robe, and sometimes a sheriff’s badge. He administered incomprehensible “literacy tests” to Black citizens trying to register to vote. He clubbed John Lewis nearly to death on the Edmund Pettus Bridge. The n-word flowed freely from Jim’s lips. You may remember Jimmy’s father, James Crow, Esquire. James wore a suit and a tie instead of a robe and hood. He drew gerrymandered congressional and legislative districts to dilute the power of the Black vote. James would never utter the n-word — at least not in public. Instead, he would winkingly refer to “states’ rights” and “welfare queens.” Jimmy Crow wears a golf shirt and khaki pants. He carries a tiki torch in place of a burning cross. Jimmy’s not content with suppressing and diluting the Black vote; he wants the power to ignore election results altogether if he doesn’t like the outcome. He fiercely guards the symbols of white supremacy his grandfather erected on town squares and courthouse grounds to intimidate Black Americans. He rants about “replacement theory” and “the purity of the ballot box.” Like his grandfather, Jimmy Crow is not just willing but eager to use violence to enforce his white supremacist ideology. After neo-Nazi sympathizer James Alex Fields Jr. killed counter-protestor Heather Heyer by driving his car into a crowd at the 2017 “Unite the Right Rally” at least six states proposed laws to protect drivers who emulate Fields. In a single month last year, at least 72 drivers rammed their cars into protesters in 52 different cities. Insurrectionists who stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6 assaulted about 140 police
officers, bashing their heads, shoving them down stairs, stabbing them with metal poles, and blasting them with pepper spray. Jimmy Crow is unrepentant for this revolting brutality, or for the racist lies that provoked it. Just Marc Morial hours after their colleagues’ lives were threatened and rioters openly called for Vice President Pence to be hanged, 147 members of Congress voted to overturn the results of a free and fair Presidential election. Jimmy Crow doesn’t hide his conviction that the votes of Black and Brown Americans should not necessarily be counted. Dozens of lawsuits challenging the election results sought to invalidate votes in communities of color, particularly African American communities. In Michigan, the challenges focused on in Detroit, where nearly 80 percent of the population is Black. In Wisconsin, it was Milwaukee County, home to the state’s largest percentage of voters of color. Philadelphia, another target, is 58% Black and Latino. If Jimmy Crow doesn’t succeed in cancelling the Black and Brown votes, he thinks he should be able to disregard the results of an election entirely. An Arizona state lawmaker has proposed that the Legislature to decide who wins the state’s electoral votes, regardless of the popular vote. In 1964 and 1965, the nation triumphed over Jim Crow by enacting the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act. We dealt a blow to James Crow, Esq., in the 2008 presidential election, when the Black vot-
“Jim,” “James,” or “Jimmy Crow” — they all claim to be protecting democracy — even as they trample on voting rights. (Stock photo) ing rate exceeded the white rate for the first time in U.S. history — and repeated the feat in 2012. To fight their descendant Jimmy Crow, Congress must pass, and President Biden must sign the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act and The For the People Act. The John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act would restore Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act, struck down in 2013 by the U.S. Supreme Court in Shelby v. Holder, that required federal approval for any changes to voting laws in jurisdictions with a history of voter suppression. Among the For The People Act’s sweeping provisions, it eliminates racially-motivated voter suppression tactics like cumbersome voter registration requirements, strict I.D. requirements, limited voting
hours and restrictions on voting by mail. It bans deceptive practices and voter intimidation. And it bans the partisan gerrymandering that dilutes the political influence of communities of color. As former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder testified to a Senate committee in support of the bill, “Now is the time for Congress to exercise its constitutional authority to protect the structure of our representative democracy. Otherwise, we will slip deeper into a system in which self-interested politicians use the tools of governance to keep themselves in power with no regard for the desires of the people they are supposed to represent.” (Marc H. Morial is the President and CEO of the National Urban League.)
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The New Tri-State Defender
June 17 - 23, 2021
Page 5
RELIGION
Pandemic holds lessons for church, emphasizes need for mental health by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
For churches, businesses and other public institutions, the COVID-19 pandemic forced creative innovations by those who have survived the worst of the health crisis. Others became mired in the sudden halt of normal activity and succumbed to the burden of sustaining financial equilibrium in the absence of in-person interaction, according to Pastor Byron Moore of St. Andrew AME Church. “The average church has a congregation of 75,” said Moore. “And the demographic of that population is mostly seniors. The pandemic put a cap on what the church could do and be. In the end, it was just too much to overcome.” Moore said although there will be some churches that have closed for good, there have been a number of valuable lessons “we can take out of
this devastating experience.” Despite the rise in family deaths and loss, both from COVID-19 and other causes, it has become evident how fragile an institution the “black church” actually is. “I have done more funerals over the past year,” said Moore. “There was one funeral in particular that I had to perform. It was of a mother who died first of COVID-19. Then, the daughter died. “There was a man sitting there on the front pew, a husband and a father, mourning the passing of them both. That was a watershed moment for me. Mental health is going to be crucial behind all of the suffering and loss.” The loss of a loved one, the loss of a church, the loss of a job, the loss of what life once was — it is all loss, and grieving is a very serious concern and reality for many people, Moore said. Moore said one positive thing he has seen the pandemic do is break
down the walls people have put up because they are reluctant to see a therapist or seek professional mental health assistance. “We have three school-aged children,” said Moore. “I saw first-hand the effects of our children having normal childhood socialization interrupted in such a drastic way. Our oldest daughter is 16. Her best friend’s father died from COVID-19. It was distressing for her. She told us, ‘I can’t even be there for her.’” According to the Tennyson Center for Children, mental health is the next health crisis as the nation emerges from the pandemic, according to a report released in December 2020. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) released a study last August showing that more than 40 percent of adults in the United States reported struggling with mental health challenges or substance abuse because of widespread death, job loss and isolation from the mandatory shutdown.
The study also showed that almost 11 percent of respondents had seriously considered suicide in the 30 days prior to completing the survey, and the number was significantly higher among 18–24-year-olds, over 25 percent. The study also found that a prevalence of depression symptoms in adults had tripled since the pandemic. Moore said, though, there is good news. People are opening up to the notion of mental health care. “There has been a change in how people view mental health professionals,” said Moore. “I have been direct and clear in my message about mental health. It’s okay to have a therapist. It’s okay to seek counseling and it’s okay to take medication. God can heal instantly, but it is important to see the hand of God in these other things as well.” Moore, a former chaplain, said he understands the importance of helping people see divine intervention in other methods used by physicians as
“Mental health is going to be crucial behind all of the suffering and loss,” said Pastor Byron Moore (right), joined by his wife, Rev. Sharon Moore. (Courtesy photo) well as mental health professionals. “Look, it has been a season of uncharted waters,” said Moore. “This was a once-in-a-century event, and nobody has the playbook. The pandemic has created a need for churches to share and help each other in the evolving virtual church. “I have been in communion with other pastors. We exchange ideas. ‘What is working for you?’ ‘What is new going to look like?’ How do we navigate as we move forward?’”
LEGACY: Pearl Ivy Washington
Teaching lessons that she learned to live by TSD Newsroom A former journalist and long-serving high school English and literature teacher, Pearl Ivy Washington died at Methodist Hospital-Germantown on June 7 after a long illness that slowed her down but never stopped her from learning. Born on July 17, 1954 in Sherard, Mississippi, she was the daughter of Pinkie Burgess and the late Robert Ivy. She grew up in Memphis with her six siblings: Ann Winn, Robert Ivy, Ronald Ivy, Christy White, Terri Wright and Sharon Ivy. For the last 30 years of her 66-year life, her world orbited around the love for her “twins” – Karanja Ade Mosi Ajanaku and Jamila Abeo Ajanaku, who lovingly and devotedly cared for her at the home shared with Ms. Washington’s mother. Like many in her family, she served in the United States Navy, absorbing life lessons along the way. Education/learning was an enduring thread through her life. She graduated from Southside High School (1972), earned a degree at LeMoyne-Owen College (1983) and furthered her education at the University of Memphis (1989). A talented and strong writer, she worked as a reporter/journalist at The Commercial Appeal for five years (1982-87). Later, she transitioned to teaching (19902011), becoming endeared at Frayser High School and sub-
Pearl Ivy Washington (Photo: Jamila A. Ajanaku)
sequently at the Benjamin L. Hooks Job Corps Center. “Her love for reading was second to none,” said fellow English teacher George Ross, a friend of 41 years. “She read everything she got her hands on. … magazines, novels, dictionaries, encyclopedias, newspapers, plays, textbooks and everything else that had the printed word on it. She once told me that she would rather read that anything else in the world.” Awarded the prestigious Presidential Award at LeMoyne-Owen, she later became the editor of the campus newspaper, The Magician. As an educator, her intelligence was astounding to observe and “matched only by snapback one-liners that kept us in hysterics,” said fellow teacher, former neighbor and “partner” Toni Jackson. “The quickness of (her) responses, and the accuracy and timing of (her) comments left me oftentimes saying, ‘girl, you missed your calling; you
should’ve been a comedienne.” Her life’s view was “God first, family and friends,” Jackson said, and she “lived by that code. ...I always admired and respected (her) for being straight forward and keeping it real. …” Renell Smith said their 50-year friendship began at Union Valley Baptist Church, where they decided to sing in the choir. Over the years, “We would laugh about good things, and cry about bad things together. ... Pearl called me to say she was thinking about joining the Navy (and that) we could go in under what they called … the buddy system. I told her I would think about it. “It apparently took me too long. Two weeks later, I found out that not only did Pearl enlist, several of her siblings all enlisted. … There was a huge write up in the Tri-State Defender.” The two became godparents of each other’s children, deciding upon that link before any of them were born, Smith said. Ms. Washington had three grandchildren (Ade, Omari and Alani), dedicating herself to them as she did to her children, whom she guided with the support of her co-parent, Karanja Aidoo Ajanaku. She also leaves a brotherin-law, Lloyd White; nieces: Courtney, D’Shonta, Javita, Kenya, Shaquinta, Sharon, Tia and Trenecia; nephews: Lawrence and Ted; and a host of great-nephews, great-nieces and other friends.
Young and in charge!... Children’s Day was celebrated at Historic Mt. Pisgah C.M.E. Church in Orange Mound last Sunday (June 13). The program was directed by Shondra White. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)
The New Tri-State Defender, June 17 - 23, 2021, Page 6
‘I ... hope to spark the minds of the next generation’
Najee Strickland’s ‘BLACK FIST SERIES Pt. II’ TSD Newsroom Najee Strickland is set to premiere “Black Fist Series® Pt. II” during a free, red-carpet affair downtown at Fourth Bluff Park on Thursday evening. Strickland, a Memphis native first recognized on the art scene for his drawings and fashions, stars in the short film as the lead character dealing with a “black inferiority complex.” The film is billed as tracking a day in the life of a Black male facing social issues and propaganda as he tries to assimilate into society while finding ways to express his individuality and creative ability. Attendees are encouraged to wear formal or semi-formal attire to the premiere, which will feature live music by Tia and spoken word by francis, the Truman. Set for 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., the event has limited seating, with tickets available on Eventbrite. The short film also stars Strickland’s daughter, Londyn Emille, and Jeanelle Jones (aka Tbj or Toothbrush Jesus), who additionally will perform an expressionist dance. Directed by Blake Heimabch of Hotkey Studios, it was written, produced and co-directed by Strickland. The “Black Fist Series®” is pitched as “a visual installation of paintings and films that focus on issues such as social proximity, social injustice, propaganda, and media stigmas in the black/brown community.” “Black Fist Series® Pt. I” was released in 2018. Strickland credits ArtsMemphis, along with Hotkey Studios, for “enabling me to
share my gift through film.” His goal with the series is to “uplift the community, encourage the youth and manifest change by keeping people informed of our history and our present. “I also hope to spark the minds of the next generation so they will keep exposing injustice and fighting for change,” he said. Strickland netted a 2020 ArtsMemphis Accelerator Grant, which provides funds to help artists at critical junctures in their careers. “Najee was one of six recipients of this particular grant,” said Elizabeth Rouse president/CEO of ArtsMemphis. “It was a very competitive process and is awarded to artists who our panel of judges felt, based on their accomplishments, could use it to expose more people to their art possibly propelling their career forward and helping them generate income from their art.” A self-taught designer and stylist, many
Najee Strickland said his goal for the Black Fist Series® includes sparking “the minds of the next generation so they will keep exposing injustice and fighting for change.” were introduced to Strickland through his wearable art, which singer/dancer Mila J. featured during a photo shoot.
(For more information, visit https:// www.theblackfistseries.com/.)
JUNETEENTH
Plenty of ways to celebrate Juneteenth in the 901 by Brianna Smith-Herman Special to The New Tri-State Defender
Memphis will join other cities across the United States this weekend to celebrate Juneteenth, a special day for African Americans. Juneteenth celebrates June 19, 1865 when Black Union soldiers brought news of the Emancipation Proclamation to Galveston, Texas, freeing enslaved people in the South and Southwest. It is a day of festivals, cookouts, parades and educational events. Memphis also celebrates the day and this year’s commemoration has particular poignancy. It will take place in the Medical District’s Health Sciences Park, formally called Nathan Bedford Forrest Park, where an equestrian statue of the former Confederate cavalry general, slave trader and Ku Klux Klan grand wizard once stood, and where Forrest and his wife, until recently, were buried. Here is a list of Memphis Juneteenth events. • The Juneteenth Urban Music Festival: Health Sciences Park, Union Avenue between Manassas and Dunlap, Friday (June 18 through Sunday (June 20) at 10 a.m. The celebration includes live music, a car show, a kids zone, and a freedom run and walk. • Inaugural Juneteenth Freedom Ride: Saturday (June 19), 8 a.m., presented by Major Taylor Memphis and the Memphis River Parks Partnership. Event offers multiple routes and distances of 23, 44 and 63 miles with supported SAG stops. The Major Taylor Memphis cycling club’s mission is to promote a healthy lifestyle, sense of community and local partnership through various levels of cycling. Major Taylor became the first African-American World
On June 16, Congress passed legislation to make June 19 a national holiday called “Juneteenth National Independence Day.” The bill now goes to President Joe Biden to be signed into law, marking the first new national holiday since Martin Luther King Day in 1983. champion cyclist in 1899. • Juneteenth: A Celebration and A Conversation: Front lawn at LeMoyne-Owen College, 807 Walker Ave., Saturday (June 19), 10 a.m. • The LeMoyne-Owen College National Alumni Association will jump-start the morning with the inaugural Magician’s Ride BikeA-Thon, followed by a day filled with food, a health fair, a symposium, a re-enactment and
giveaways. • The Juneteenth Shop Black Festival: Fourth Bluff Park, on Front St. between Court and Jefferson, Saturday (June 19), 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For the second year, this festival will celebrate black excellence with food trucks/vendors, live entertainment, vendors from all over the city, and fun for the entire family. The list of local businesses includes Pop’s
Kernel, Lennox Watches, Chef Tam’s Underground Café and more. For more information on Juneteenth Shop Black Festival, visit online at juneteenthcdco. eventbrite.com. • Shop Black Memphis: Martin Luther King Jr.-Riverside Park, Saturday (June 19) 1 p.m. Shop Black Memphis is a celebration of black small business owners. The goal is to provide opportunities and resources for Blackowned businesses to increase visibility and revenue. This event will showcase a variety of businesses and their products in an outdoor market that is free and open to the public. • Memphis Juneteenth Family Reunion: Orange Mound Tower, Saturday, (June 19), 5 p.m. TONE in partnership with We Are Unapologetic has curated a night of musical performances, food trucks, games to celebrate the legacy and freedom of those who came before us. The Family Reunion is to sow the seeds of possibility into our community through purposeful and thoughtful interactions in a creative atmosphere. • Memphis Vegan Festival: Fourth Bluff Park, Sunday (June 20), noon to 5 p.m. As more Memphians choose plant-based lifestyles, Cynthia Daniels & Co. launches The Memphis Vegan Festival. The festival will feature a fun experience around healthy food. The event is free. Patrons can experience vegan food, live entertainment and a marketplace, featuring local businesses, plant-based health and beauty products, clothing and accessories. For more information on Memphis Vegan Festival, visit online at 901veganfestival. eventbrite.com.
COMMUNITY The New Tri-State Defender, June 17 - 23, 2021, Page 7
Council sets tax rate; nixes move for additional increase by James Coleman
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
Memphis’ FY2022 budget year course, which begins July 1, has been charted after the Memphis City Council Tuesday (June 15) voted to adopt a $716 million operating budget and an $85 million capital improvement plan budget. And, perhaps more important for property owners, the council also approved a certified property tax rate of $2.71 per $100 assessed value, which translates in no property tax increase this year. The revenue gained from the newly-minted rate of $2.71 is in line with the past rate of $3.19 per $100 assessed property value. In recent years, property values have ballooned. To prevent a revenue windfall for local governments — something prohibited by the state — the rate was set downward. The approval of the tax rate staved off a longshot bid to boost the newly-certified rate to $3.02. “Taxes are how we pay for services our citizens deserve and need. The city budget sends a message to the priorities of the community,” said councilmember Martavius Jones, who offered an unsuccessful amendment to raise the rate. The case the amendment’s only “yes” vote. Jones’ appeal for a tax increase had been supported by a coalition of community activists, who called for the council to pass a “moral budget” that would generate revenue to provide much needed services for the city’s vulnerable citizens. The coalition held a news conference Monday (July 14) at the symbolic “I Am A Man” Plaza in Downtown Memphis to urge the council to support their request. Citing a tacit substandard of service in the budget, Jones’ proposed hike would have netted an additional $40.1 million to the city. The additional funds would have allotted $14 million for 3 percent pay raises for all employees, not just Police and Fire Department personnel. Another $10 million would have gone to MATA. Further down the ledger, solid waste would have picked up an additional $5 million to expand services to address blight and dumping. Both youth workforce training and the city’s affordable housing trust were slated for $4 million. Capital “pay-go” funding, cash to finance lesser construction projects foregoing bond debt, lost out on $3 million. The pitch was first made during the budget committee meeting. Jones was informed that the council was required by state law to certify the proposed $2.71 and then let the full com-
Memphis City Councilman Martavious Jones came under fire for pushing a property tax hike — while being delinquent on his own tax bill. He told media Tuesday he would pay the back taxes and interest. mittee vote on the amendment. It failed on a 1-8-2 vote. Voting it down were Chairman Frank Colvett, Chase Carlisle, Edmund Ford Sr., Ford Canale, Cheyenne Johnson, Patrice Robinson, Worth Morgan and Jeff Warren. Council members Rhonda Logan and Michalyn Easter-Thomas abstained, while JB Smiley Jr. and Jamita Swearengen did not vote. There were several stabs at amending the budget during the waning minutes of the budget season, where $1.7 million remained to be spent. In addition to 3 percent pay raises for employees, MPD was given another $1 million for 29 take-home cars for officers who live within the city limits. The cars must be parked in officers’ driveways or on the street. Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland backed the outlay. “We do have take-home cars for people who are on the TAC unit; for people who are on special operations for the CIT unit. This is for patrol sergeants and for patrolmen. It sounds a little bit funny, but actually with take home cars, the cars last longer because the engines are not running 24/7,” said Doug McGowen, the city’s chief operating officer. Councilmember Ford criticized the amendment, taking issue with the department. “I got an issue with the Police Department right now... It’s a bad issue right now with the Police Department. I don’t want no lawsuits or anything like that coming up ... I don’t mind giving money to them but we need to hold up right this minute … They need to correct a few things,” said Ford cryptically. Nevertheless, it was approved. Ford also proposed and the council ap-
proved $500,000 for pedestrian safety upgrades throughout the city. Frayser will see $46,000 of improvement to crosswalks and intersections after Easter-Thomas secured additional funding for District 7. After these allotments, it was decided to split the remaining $154,000 amongst the 13 council members, who will use the funds to support community projects in their districts. Each was apportioned $11,846. Other ambitions weren’t so lucky. Hopes of reviving the Mud Island monorail were dashed. Jones couldn’t muster the support of another member for the idea in committee. The $5 million would have been cobbled together by rounding up in the budget from other line items. “I spent the better part of a decade working on Mud Island. The monorail is about priority 53,” Carlisle said. Conversely, the option to set aside a $25.7 million cut of Memphis’ American Rescue Plan funding to boost tourism and hospitality and assistance programs, including for rent and utilities, drew consideration. The funding would have been procured before the start of the new budget. It too was championed by Jones. However, council members were unsure if all the money from the CARES had been spent. There also were concerns about how using the money could affect another round of federal funding. Memphis Chief Financial Officer Shirley Ford indicated that the cost of line items could swing dramatically, altering future payouts negatively.
‘Magician’s Ride Bike-A-Thon’ to kick off LOC Juneteenth celebration by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
Saturday (June 19) will be a spectacular day of bike rides and festive celebrations on the campus of LeMoyne-Owen College, the city’s only historically black institution. June 19, the Juneteenth holiday, will bring old friends and faithful alumni back to campus to celebrate the day as well as what LOC has meant to them and the community. “The Magician’s Ride Bike-A-Thon, hosted by our LeMoyne-Owen College Memphis Alumni Association, is an event that will support scholarships,” said Dr. Vernell A. Bennett-Fairs, the school’s president. “We are incredibly thankful. The bike ride begins Saturday’s Juneteenth celebration, which we expect to bring many alumni and community members together on that day.” Memphis Alumni Association President Sylvester Fulton said the organization wanted to host an event supporting LeMoyne-Owen, despite the pandemic. “In this inaugural event, we first limited the number of riders to 25 because of the pandemic restrictions,” said Fulton. “But spaces are still available. We are asking participants to make a tax-exempt donation of $1,000 this year. Subsequent bike events will be much less, but we are planning to make this an annual event.” Fulton said the association usually sponsors one major fundraiser each year, but it was not
possible to host the MLK Memorial Breakfast because of the pandemic. “We still wanted to be able to support the school, and I have always enjoyed bikes,” said Fulton. “I know Dr. Stanley Dowell, one of our members, is an avid bike rider. He has so much more experience than I do, so I asked him if he would be responsible for the planning of the bike-a-thon. He just took it from there and did an excellent job.” There are several routes for various levels of experience. All routes begin and end on LeMoyne-Owen’s campus. “I have a passion for bike-riding,” said Dowell, a physician who attended LOC as an undergrad. “There are a number of routes — a 25-mile route, a 15-mile route and even a shorter route for bikers, who have not yet advanced to longer distances. All the routes are scenic and enjoyable, and we have been testing the routes on Saturdays to make sure everything is good.” The 25-mile route takes the most advanced riders across the I-55 bridge along the pedestrian course, into West Memphis. All routes take riders to Martyrs Park, where there will be a resting station for bikers, Dowell said. “We are making sure the route is safe, also,” said Dowell. “There will be rest stops along the way, and we will have trucks to pick up riders who would like a ride back to campus. We see historic places along the way, such as the I Am A Man Plaza and Stax, where the col-
The Magician Bike-A-Thon Committee includes, from left: Bobby Thomas, Karen Dowell, Memphis Alumni Association President Sylvester Fulton, and Dr. Stanley Dowell, committee chair. (Courtesy photo) orful murals are painted.” After the riders return to LOC, a celebrity ride around the campus is scheduled. LOC President Bennett-Fairs is expected to participate in the celebrity ride, along with Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris and former Memphis Mayor Dr. Willie W. Herenton, who is a LOC graduate. According to Fulton, the first riders will take off at 6:30 a.m. Most riders should be returning to campus about 9 a.m. The celebrity ride will begin at 9:45 a.m. A Juneteenth festival is planned, with food trucks, live music from the college’s band and a dramatic reenactment of the first Juneteenth celebration. All festivities are free and open to the community and public.
Death stills Leon Gray’s faith-powered voice TSD Newsroom A pro in radio broadcasting and on the DJ circuit, Leon Gray – a special assistant to Shelby County’s Juvenile Court judge – flowed positive vibes, which is why so many have been mourning his death. Gray, 62, died Friday (June 11). According to a source close to the family, he had a heart attack on Monday (June 7) and never recovered. A member of New Sardis Baptist Church, Gray – a Sunday School teacher – had deep Mid-South roots. Leon “We both have roots that Gray spring out of Jago, (Jaygo) Mississippi,” said the Rev. Dr. L. LaSimba M. Gray Jr., New Sardis’ pastor emeritus and a member of Gray’s family. “That (Jago) is now Southaven, Mississippi. “Leon and I are sons of fathers who were cousins. They were cousins, but they were raised like brothers. Our fathers, Leon and Leo Gray, ran a taxi service together between Jago and Memphis. I came here, and when Leon moved here, we fell into the same kind of relationship. We hooked up like brothers.” Not only will Gray be missed in the family, he will be missed in the New Sardis Church family, Dr. Gray said. “The congregation will not only miss the service he rendered, but the spirit in which he rendered it.” Gray’s broadcast career spanned over a quarter century. It was accented by him having been: *A radio personality with the Clear Channel (now iHeart) Radio Group in Memphis; *A media figure in Houston, Texas; *A TV news reporter and anchor with ABC24 News and UPN-30 News; News director with Memphis Radio Group, and *A radio announcer and talk show host with several local stations, including WDIA, WREC, WLOK and 103.5 WRBO. A 1977 graduate of Manassas High School, Gray once posted on Facebook that “one of my favorite teachers” was Noble H. Owens Jr., who taught English and owned Owens Funeral Home. “(H)e was always there for students in good and bad times.” Owens daughter, Dena Owens, first became friends with Gray during her college days. Gray studied journalism at Union University in Jackson, Tennessee and completed his Mass Communication certification at Tennessee State University. “My dad, who also had a DJ gig at WDIA, encouraged Leon, who became a pro in radio broadcasting and DJ services,” Owens said. “When Club Infinity was hot in Whitehaven, I wanted to dance with my friends some weekends. My protective dad didn’t like the idea, but I told him Leon Gray was the DJ. He had Leon to keep an on me whenever I visited the club to make sure I stayed out of trouble. “That,” said Owens, “started a lifelong friendship of support, talks about politics and mutual respect for each other.” Gray’s career in public service includes serving as director of Community Outreach in the Shelby County Mayor’s Office and eight years as senior legislative specialist for the Shelby County Board of Commissioners. In a released statement, Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris said Shelby County had lost “…a powerful voice – in fact, one of the most memorable and powerful voices. …” At Juvenile Court of Memphis and Shelby County, Gray applied himself to a variety of administrative tasks involving community outreach, volunteer services, auxiliary probation, court information and media relations. He began working as special assistant to Shelby County Juvenile Court Judge Dan Michael in 2016. “Leon, as many of us knew, was a man of faith and dedicated his life as a champion for many causes,” Michael posted on social media. “The Court has indeed lost a hero.” A member of The New Tri-State Defender’s 2012 Men of Excellence class, Gray included in his self-reflection that he believed the key to living a good life was to find and follow God’s plan for you and always remember the Scripture from John 8:32: “And ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.” Gray leaves four sons: Leon III, Bryan David, Joshua and Jordan. Visitation: Thursday, June 17, 3 p.m.-7 p.m., Serenity Funeral Home, 1638 Sycamore View; Friday, June 18, 11 a.m.-noon, New Sardis Baptist Church, 7739 E. Holmes Rd. Funeral service, noon at New Sardis. (This story reflects reports by Dr. Sybil M. Mitchell and TSD Associate Publisher/Executive Editor Karanja A. Ajanaku.)
The New Tri-State Defender
June 17 - 23, 2021
ENTERTAINMENT
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“Playback Memphis’ mission is to bring stories to life, unlocking transformation, healing, and joy,” said actress Ann Perry Wallace. “We want to continue being inspired to grow and broaden our work.” (Courtesy photo)
Playback Memphis explores joy, pain of the ‘Black experience’ – and heals
by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
Saturday (June 12) night’s improvisational performance on the Black experienced was not going to be your run-of-the-mill theatrical production. Not only because of its virtual, Zoom presentation, but audience participation was encouraged. The Black Box performance was actually taken out of the box to create something unique and rare. Ann Perry Wallace, the actress who presented the one-woman show about Harlem Renaissance writer Zora Neale Hurston flexed her creative muscles with a production by Memphis Matters, a facet of Playback Memphis. “This virtual show was a BIPOC production — “Black Indigenous People of Color,” said Wallace. “Playback is a theater form that comes out of drama therapy, a form of therapy used by therapists. Improvisation is used to retell a story someone is recounting, whether it is joyful or sad, the scene is acted out on stage.” A person watching an event in his life playing out on a stage feels that someone has listened to them, and
someone actually heard what they were saying, according to Wallace. “I expressed the desire to produce the show to our founder and executive director, Virginia Murphy,” said Wallace. She thought it was a great idea and supported our efforts.” Murphy said saying “yes” was actually “listening to Wallace.” “Playback provides a safe space for a person to share an intimate experience, whether it is rich and wonderful or complex and painful,” said Murphy. “Our mission is to bring stories to life, unlocking transformation, healing, and joy. We want to continue being inspired to grow and broaden our work.” The production was special in that it invited audience members to share personal stories, either of triumph and accomplishment, or trauma and tragedy. Stories of pain, disappointment, euphoric times, good times — actors on the Zoom screens acted out the stories being shared in that intimate setting. “Playback performances are therapeutic and transformative because the actor in some way enters into the sharing of the person’s experience,” said Wallace. “If it was an unpleasant experience, a person
will sometimes feel that someone else is sharing the load of bearing the memory of that trauma.” BIPOC Memphis Matters is 12 years old. “Playback Memphis always invites us to deepen and grow ourselves as human beings and to be in beloved community together,” said Murphy. “In a time of such deep cultural trauma, what more loving act is there then to honor, support and protect our BIPOC ensemble and audience in their need. for this experience?” Murphy is a Memphian, who earned a bachelor’s degree in special education and a master’s degree in counseling psychology. After 10 years of studying and performing Playback theatre in San Francisco and New York City, Murphy moved back to Memphis to start her own troupe. Playback productions are presented at schools, businesses and churches, with such themes as anti-bullying, respect for others, and overcoming trauma. (For additional information, go to the website at: playbackmemphis.org.)
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: Sean Bell Tax Parcel #: 06904200000090 Tax Sale #: 1002 Price Offered: $2,000 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 1:00 p.m. on July 15, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Lanora Owenss Tax Parcel #: 07005200000130 Tax Sale #: 1701 Price Offered: $8,000 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
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a.m. on July 15, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Mark Namyad Tax Parcel #: 06005900000630 Tax Sale #: 1604 Price Offered: $700 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 July 14, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the fol-
The New Tri-State Defender
June 17 - 23, 2021
Page 9
CLASSIFIEDS lowing property: Khatereh Asnaf Tax Parcel #: 04900900000460 Tax Sale #: 1603 Price Offered: $5,000 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 10:00 a.m. on July 15, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Frank Sea Tax Parcel #: 02606900000180 Tax Sale #: 1302 Price Offered: $1,900 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 9:30 a.m. on July 15, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Jarmarvis Boykin Tax Parcel #: 04203400000780 Tax Sale #: 1101 Price Offered: $1,700 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 2:30 p.m. on July 14, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Jarmarvis Boykin Tax Parcel #: 04203400000440 Tax Sale #: 1401 Price Offered: $1,000 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 July 14, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Derick Hayes Tax Parcel #: 04902800000040 Tax Sale #: 1604 Price Offered: $17,000 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) high-
er, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 1:00 p.m. on July 16, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 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: Michael Rogers Tax Parcel #: 0500610A000100 Tax Sale #: 1503 Price Offered: $3,500 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 10:30 a.m. on July 16, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 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: Aspire Property Management Tax Parcel #: 07101500000190 Tax Sale #: 1602 Price Offered: $4,400 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 1:30 p.m. on July 16, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 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: Kary E. Ferreira Tax Parcel #: 04203600000690 Tax Sale #: 701 Price Offered: $1,800 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,
Pearl Ivy Washington Revelation 14:13 (KJV): “And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.” Born July 17, 1954, Pearl’s work was completed June 7, 2021. When we are faced with the death of a relative, we are stunned with grief. Where does the spirit go? Our soul knows of its eternal nature. Grief is proof that love is more powerful than death. Pearl (our gem) lived to be missed and always remembered. Her loving mother, Pinkie Ivy Greer ~~ “You will always be remembered, and time may heal our hearts, but pieces of our hearts are missing since the day we had to part. If heaven is for Angels, then we know that’s where you’ll be. And we know you will be waiting when heaven calls for us. Love, Your Sisters all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 10:00 a.m. on July 16, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 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: Whitney Sykes Tax Parcel #: 03109000000070 Tax Sale #: 1701 Price Offered: $16,000 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 9:30 a.m. on July 16, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400
SALES PERSON The New Tri-State Defender is looking for a few sales consultants to sell print ads, digital ads and event sponsorships for the organization. The candidate should have some sales experience. This is a commission based opportunity. For serious inquiries email your resume to administration@ tsdmemphis.com.
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The New Tri-State Defender
June 17 - 23, 2021
Page 10
SPORTS
St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend on track to celebrate 20 years running
(BlackPressUSA) – St. Jude Memphis Marathon® Weekend presented by Juice Plus+® marks 20 years running this December and there is already reason to start celebrating early: The beloved Memphis event is racing toward the $100 million lifetime fundraising milestone. General registration opened June 1, and based on the excitement generated around the return to racing in 2021, early registration is encouraged to secure a spot at the event. Since 2002, when 2,900 marathon and half marathoners took to the streets of Memphis for the first-ever St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend, tens of thousands of participants have united for what has become the largest single-day fundraiser for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®. Among the groups returning to Memphis in 2021 to help reach this milestone is the National Black Marathoners Association (NBMA), an official marathon partner whose members fundraise as St. Jude Heroes® and the country’s oldest and largest nonprofit organization of Black American distance runners. While the NBMA had to postpone its annual summit and in-person marathon participation last year because of the pandemic, the nonprofit group plans to commemorate its 17th anniversary this year in Memphis while also celebrating the 20th anniversary of the St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend. “Running was a very different experience last year, and like so many other athletes, I missed the camaraderie of racing and especially the sense of purpose felt at the St. Jude Memphis Marathon,” said Tony Reed, co-founder of the National Black Marathoners Association. “Just as
much as running is in our blood, so too is our dedication to St. Jude, which motivates us to keep going.” The NBMA is open to everyone, regardless of athletic ability or previous marathon experience. Its members are in 48 states and 10 countries. To celebrate the NBMA’s 15th anniversary in 2019, it launched the National Black Distance Running Hall of Fame Medal Series. The medal for 2021 posthumously honors distance runner and Memphis native Angela Ivory, the first Black woman to run a marathon in all 50 states. “We’re thrilled to safely welcome back thousands of St. Jude supporters to the beautiful city of Memphis this year to participate in the 20th annual St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend with options to continue to participate virtually as well as we welcome supporters worldwide,” said Richard C. Shadyac, Jr., President and CEO of ALSAC, the fundraising and awareness organization for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. “Over the past two decades, hundreds of thousands of St. Jude supporters from around the world have come together to run, walk and fundraise for the kids of St. Jude. Their support makes a difference in the lives of St. Jude patients and their families, and we can’t wait to see what we accomplish together on this unifying day in December.” Taking part in this event is about more than just crossing the finish line. St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend is the annual gathering event for St. Jude supporters who come to Memphis from far and wide to participate, fundraise, volunteer and cheer on friends and family members, all in support of the kids of St. Jude. Over the years, the number of event par-
The National Black Marathoners Association is among the groups participating in Memphis on Dec. 4. ticipants for the marathon, half marathon, 10K and 5K has swelled, reaching more than 26,000 in 2019. They brought with them a spirit of togetherness, boundless enthusiasm and a tireless dedication to the St. Jude mission: Finding cures. Saving children.® Thanks to these devoted St. Jude Heroes® and their supporters, families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food – because all a family should worry about is helping their child live. The 2020 St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend event transitioned into a virtual experience in which participants ran wherever and however they chose to support St. Jude, whether that was an air base in Kuwait, a neighborhood park with family members or even running while yodeling in the Swiss Alps. This year, participants
can opt for the in-person event in Memphis or take part in the virtual experience wherever they are. Registration will remain open for each race level until it sells out. In addition to the marathon option, participants can choose to complete the half marathon, 10K, 5K or, for runners looking to challenge themselves, take part in the 4-race or 2-race challenge. Wherever in the world a person marks the 20th anniversary of the St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend, they can rally for St. Jude knowing that their support helps children from all 50 states and around the world. Because St. Jude freely shares its discoveries, every child saved at St. Jude means doctors and scientists can use that knowledge to save thousands more children.
Life’s on pause. Let’s press play. COVID’s put our lives on hold for too long. Help your family and friends schedule their COVID-19 vaccines — and press play. Because life is waiting. Find vaccines near you at vaccines.gov or call 1-800-232-0233 to find vaccines near you.
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