The New Tri-State Defender - August 5-11, 2021 by The Tri-State Defender

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August 5 - 11, 2021

VOL. 70, No. 31

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COVID-19 UPDATE

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One term and done, says Dist. 7 Commissioner Tami Sawyer Time created to “know and choose” successor TSD Newsroom

Cornelius Thomas, 33 – “Trust of the government is a big issue for me.” (Photos: Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell)

Keosha Rainer, 34 – “I’m just not convinced that I need to take the vaccine.”

Delta-variant threat remains strong

everyone get vaccinated,” said Dr. Bruce Randolph, medical officer at the Shelby County Health Department. “The city council recommended that we reinstate the masking mandate, but we were in a different place before the vaccine. We strongly recommend that everyone wear a mask in public places. New cases continue to climb, and that is very concerning.” Although more than 10,000 vaccinations were reported in the last seven-day report period, ending on Tuesday, Aug. 3, the rising numbers of new daily infections show no signs of letting up. Officials are especially concerned about the number of pediatric cases causing se-

DeMarcus Pitchford, 24 – “Lots of people on Instagram have not been vaccinated.”

Vaxxing hesitancy persists despite Health Department’s best shots

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

With vaccinations in Shelby County slowing from April and May numbers, health department officials continue pleading the case for immunization to those who have resisted being vaccinated. As they do, the Delta variant continues its spread. “Our message is still the same, and it is more important than ever before that

vere illness among children under the age of 18. “Of course, these younger victims are of particular concern to us,” said Randolph. “Children under the age of 12 cannot receive vaccinations, so they depend on the adults around them for protection. New infections are occurring in the 18-44 age group. So we are seeing younger and younger COVID-19 victims. These developments are truly alarming. On Wednesday (Aug. 4), there were 382 new cases reported. The seven-day rolling average of new infections was 447, and the positivity rate skyrocketed to 14.6 per-

SEE VAX ON PAGE 2

There is ample evidence that Shelby County Commissioner Tami Sawyer has sought to be a “servant leader” with impact for what she calls “marginalized communities.” The desire to do even more of that, she said, prompted a decision not to seek a second term. Nearly a year ahead of ending her term on Aug. 31, 2022, Sawyer this week shocked many by detailing her plan to step away from the District 7 seat that she won with 81 percent of the vote on August 2, 2018. “Because I also know first-hand what it takes to build relationships and trust within community as a candidate for public office, by announcing my decision to not seek re-election at this point in my term, I hope to allow district 7 sufficient time Tami Sawyer to come to know and choose a successor who is equally committed and prepared to continue this work with us to address the inequities that persist in our communities,” Sawyer said in a released statement. Promising to remain an ally and voice for justice for families in district 7 and the Greater Memphis community at-large, Sawyer said her decision to not seek a second term is prompted by an intent to broaden her

SEE SAWYER ON PAGE 2

COMMENTARY

State TCAP test results are in and they are troubling by Curtis Weathers

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

The test results are in and the numbers paint a gloomy and troubling picture of the daunting challenges ahead for Tennessee schools in both the immediate and distant future. As a former principal, whenever test scores arrived in my building, my staff would hide the data from me until they had a chance to review it and discuss how they would break the news to me about the results, especially if we came up short on a particular performance goal. I usually was pretty grumpy while awaiting those results. Unfortunately, things have not changed much for me. My stress levels have been extremely high while awaiting Shelby County Schools’ TCAP results. I’ve been experiencing the same level of anxiety as I did as a principal (sad face emoji).

But seeing the state results earlier this week gave me some momentary relief from my anxiety, but I won’t be satisfied until I see the SCS data as well. Only one word came to mind when I first looked at the state’s performance results, and that word is Curtis “sobering.” Weathers Most everyone expected the results to be extremely low, but I experienced a momentary feeling of despair when I first laid eyes on the actual numbers. Since last year’s exams were canceled due to the pandemic, this year’s scores offer the first look in two years into student learning across the state. While this year’s results will not be used to

year’s data might claim that honor. But there was a bit of good news about our testing that deserves acknowledgment. One of the most critical challenges faced by

SEE TCAP ON PAGE 2

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The New Tri-State Defender

August 5 - 11, 2021

Page 2

NEWS VAX

CONTINUED FROM FRONT cent. There are some 4,383 active COVID-19 cases in Shelby County. Eight children were reportedly taken to Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital this week. Two remain in critical care; two died over the weekend. The ages of children being hospitalized was not given, but new cases numbers show that teens are especially susceptible in pediatric cases. Across the nation, 72,000 pediatric cases were added last week, up from 39,000 the week before. Officials are considering creatively-devised methods to get people to get vaccinated. During a committee meeting on Wednesday, Shelby County

TCAP

CONTINUED FROM FRONT school systems throughout the nation this year was getting students to actually take the exams. Participation is important. The more students take the tests, the more legitimate and actionable the data becomes. Also, the easier it is to compare results from year to year, and it gives educators more confidence in making strategic investments and policy decisions going forward. An estimated one in three students across the U.S. attended a school operating entirely remote. In addition, school officials across Tennessee thought that many of our parents would opt their children out of state testing because of the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic. Remember, for this school year, these assessments had to be administered in person and paper/pencil format only for all students. Fortunately, in Shelby County Schools and throughout the state, students showed up! The state reported that 95 percent of Tennessee’s testing population in grades 3-11 took their tests, reaching the nation’s standard participation threshold. And all 147 districts met or exceeded the state’s 80 percent minimum participation rate. In total, nearly 750,000 Tennessee public school students were tested. Their performance, however, is another matter. Tennessee saw a five percent decrease in proficiency overall since 2019 and acrossthe-board drops in proficiency in all core subjects and across all demographic groups. As expected, progress in math and reading declined significantly. Math scores fell 12 percent since 2019, and scores in En-

Commissioner Van Turner Jr. advanced a proposed spending measure of $673,000 to partner with LeMoyne Owen College, University of Memphis and Leadership Memphis for community health outreach, particularly concentrating on COVID-19. The health department is continuing door-knocking efforts to convince Shelby County residents to take the vaccine. Among the particularly recalcitrant, are a number of young, African-American adults. Cornelius Thomas, 33, of Memphis said he does not plan to ever take the vaccine. “Trust of the government is a big issue for me,” said Thomas. “There is definitely some concern with propagation. I don’t believe the media when they say the pandem-

ic is really that bad. And, we all know about the Tuskegee experiment. I don’t foresee changing my mind.” Keosha Rainer, 34, of Somerville, said she doesn’t plan to take the vaccine either. “I just don’t feel that it is something I needed to do,” said Rainer. “I did hear that there are more and more pediatric cases being reported. That is a concern, but I’m just not convinced that I need to take the vaccine.” DeMarcus Pitchford, 24, of Memphis, will not be taking the vaccine because he doesn’t feel information has been clear enough. Pitchford said young social media influencers don’t recommend getting the vaccine, and that has convinced him not to get it. “First, you hear about something bad happening to some

people getting the vaccine,” said Pitchford. “Then you hear it’s good, and everyone needs to take it. When the pandemic first hit, I was in Atlanta. I was there, and then I came here, and I never got sick. So I just feel, “Why bother getting vaccinated? Lots of people on Instagram have not been vaccinated.” Randolph said health officials will continue working to get everyone vaccinated since most new COVID cases are among those who have not been vaccinated. Besides area pharmacies and private health providers, vaccines are still available at the drive-thru operation at the Pipkin Building. There is no cost, and appointments are not required. Those being vaccinated receive shots in their vehicle.

Only 29 percent of Tennessee students are on grade level in English language arts, and only about a fourth are on grade level in math. glish language arts dropped by six percentage points over the same period. Only 29 percent of Tennessee students are on grade level in English language arts, and only about a fourth are on grade level in math. In science, performance dropped by a third, with only 38 percent of students demonstrating proficiency. The declines in science were larger than in any other subject area. The smallest decline was in social studies, where only 3 percent fewer students met grade-level expectations. Predictably, Black, Latino and low-income students in high-poverty schools were hit the hardest. Drops in performance were steeper in districts that provided most of their instruction online, instead of in person, which is not a huge surprise. But some politicians already are beginning to weaponize this particular data point to chastise school systems that prioritize safety and extended virtual learning longer than some of them wanted. However, my biggest concern is with our younger second and third-grade student population, who saw some of the more significant declines. For example, more than half of Tennessee second graders, who are not required to take TCAP assessments, took an optional test that showed a whopping 11 percent drop in proficiency. Only 32 percent of our third graders, who are required to

While this year’s results will not be used to evaluate teachers or trigger state interventions in low-performing schools, some education leaders believe this could be the most crucial data ever produced under the Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program (TCAP). take TCAP assessments, performed on grade level in English language arts, compared to 38 percent in 2019. In the end, no one is surprised by these outcomes. The pandemic, as expected, substantially widened pre-pandemic gaps in test scores by race and economic status. While the results across our state and, yes, the entire nation is indeed “sobering,” I think we as a community need to look back and appreciate what we’ve accomplished over the past two years. We should look beyond our test results and celebrate students, teachers and families’ perseverance and resilience during a year when we all have been consumed with the nuances of a whole new teaching and learning paradigm – virtually learning. For SCS Supt. Joris Ray, keeping his students, teachers and support team healthy and safe was a major priority. There are no national or state-level metrics to measure the district’s success for that particular objective. But they did a great job! As preparations continue for the start of the 2021-22 school year, let’s keep our teachers, students and support personnel in our prayers. School starts next week (Aug.9).

This pandemic, unfortunately, is not over. So, get vaccinated, people, and let’s have a GREAT 2021 school year! (View the Spring 2021 TCAP results at https://bit.ly/2VqYjC7.) (Curtis Weathers is the education columnist for The New Tri-State Defender.)

“I am immensely grateful to have the privilege to serve district 7 and humbled by the opportunities that I have had to work alongside community residents to bring about real change for families in an oftenforgotten area of Shelby County.” — Tami Sawyer SAWYER

CONTINUED FROM FRONT impact as a servant leader for marginalized communities in a new capacity. She offered no specifics about that “new capacity.” “I am immensely grateful to have the privilege to serve district 7 and humbled by the opportunities that I have had to work alongside community residents to bring about real change for families in an often-forgotten area of Shelby County,” Sawyer said. “The work that I will continue following the end of my term as Commissioner will be focused on the communities that need us to hear them the most in Memphis and across the South, but are too often ignored by government leadership, collectively.” Synonymous with the #takeemdown901 movement that galvanized grassroots support for the removal of monuments that saluted Confederate-era figures in two public parks, Sawyer built a national persona as an activist regarding social justice, ending systemic racism and “equality for disadvantaged black indigenous people of color.” The first chairperson of

the recently formed Shelby County Commission Black Caucus, Sawyer counts among her accomplishments efforts to help stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus, including an appointment to the Tennessee Health Department’s Minority Health Task Force. In detailing her decision not to seek re-election, Sawyer noted having served as co-chair for the transportation task force and “a historic $2.5 million investment in the Memphis Area Transit Authority,” advocacy efforts to expand access to reproductive health products for girls and the sponsoring of legislation associated with a $1.5 million expansion of the Girls. Inc campus in Frayser. “For almost eight years, I have had the privilege to serve Memphis as an activist, organizer and elected official and I am humbled to have been chosen by my district to be a servant leader during a time of momentous change and uncertainty in our country,” Sawyer said. “During my last year in office, I look forward to continuing to fight for progress for Memphis and Shelby County and infrastructure building for policies that will bring equality to the South.”

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The New Tri-State Defender

August 5 - 11, 2021

Page 3

NEWS

Office of Reentry reins now in hands of Deandre Brown TSD Newsroom Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris has chosen DeAndre Brown, executive director of the nonprofit organization LifeLine to Success, as the acting executive director of the Shelby County Office of Reentry. Brown, who spent nearly two years in prison, founded the nonprofit in 2009 with his wife to help ex-offenders reenter society. Brown’s own criminal history had blocked him from becoming a volunteer chaplain at a local hospital. That experience fueled his commitment to help other ex-offenders develop skills to reenter the community and find meaningful employment. “I believe that DeAndre Brown will approach his work at the Office of Reentry with the same commitment

he’s shown while building LifeLine to Success,” Harris said. “He has the opportunity to hit the ground running with our existing programs to reduce recidivism and give ex-offenders tools to successfully reenter society. We hope that his experience and connections to the community will help grow our reentry program and change more lives.” Brown said it was clear when LifeLine to Success was started that “if given the tools and the opportunities, ex-offenders could become successful and productive citizens. It’s the same for people who look to the Office of Reentry for guidance and help. They need to know that hope exists and not only that it exist, but that they can have it. “This office has an impressive list of programs and partners, but I believe I will

be able to build on what other leaders there have accomplished.” The Shelby County Office of Reentry is located at 1362 Mississippi Blvd. It connects ex-offenders to resources and employers willing to hire them. There is technical and vocational training for small engine repair, construction, low voltage electrical apprenticeships, and forklift operation. Through the 10-to-12-week FOCUSED program, ex-offenders can get help with employment deficiencies, mental and emotional needs, family reconnection, financial literacy and the restoration of their rights. Partners with the Office of Reentry include Workforce Mid-South, Hope Works, the Tennessee College of Applied Technology and the University of Memphis. Shelly Rice, president of the Frayser Exchange Club,

For the past 12 years, DeAndre Brown has for led LifeLine to Success, a nonprofit agency that helps ex-offenders, like him, work and reenter society. said Brown will bring bring a wealth of knowledge to the Reentry office. “He’s proven he knows how to work in that environment and he’s walked every one of those steps and persevered,” Rice sai. “He’s no stranger to it and he cares so much about these people. They want to get on the right path and he helps everybody get that trust back.” (For more information, visit reentry.shelbycountytn. gov.)

For the girls … Karen D. Hodges (fourth from left) spearheaded the initiative that led to the Grand Opening of the Talitha Cumi Center for Young Girls, Inc. at 4255 Overton Crossing Rd. last Saturday (July 31). (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

The Interstate 40 bridge linking Arkansas and Tennessee fully reopened Monday (Aug.2) ahead of schedule following repairs to a crack that had shut down the span since early May. (Photo: Screen capture/TDOT)

I-40 bridge linking Arkansas, Tennessee fully reopens by The Associated Press Special to The New Tri-State Defender

The Interstate 40 bridge linking Arkansas and Tennessee fully reopened Monday (Aug. 2) ahead of schedule following repairs to a crack that had shut down the span since early May. The Tennessee Department of Transportation’s spokeswoman said in a tweet the department reopened the westbound lanes of the Hernando DeSoto Bridge over the Mississippi River to traffic. The agency had not originally planned to reopen the westbound lanes until Friday. The bridge’s eastbound lanes reopened on Saturday night. The I-40 bridge was shut down May 11 after inspectors found a crack in one of two

900-foot (275-meter) horizontal steel beams critical for the bridge’s structural integrity. Road traffic had been diverted to the nearby Interstate 55 bridge during the I-40 bridge’s repairs. An estimated $9.5 million has been spent so far on the bridge’s repairs, design and inspection after the closure, an Arkansas transportation official said last week. The cost will be split between the two states. I-40 runs from North Carolina to California. Manufacturers and shippers rely on the interstate to move products and materials across the river. About 50,000 vehicles typically travel across the bridge daily when it’s open, with about a quarter of those being commercial trucks, Tennessee transportation officials say.

READY FOR A SUMMER OF Coming Home Tour … Micheal E. Cristal (center), the 35th International President of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., was the honored guest as the Southwestern Region presented “The Brotherhood Experience” Coming Home Tour at the Renasant Convention Center last Saturday (July 31). Pictured (l-r): Darryl Anderson, Harold Collins, Cristal, Ivy Arnold and Calvin Anderson. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

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PERSPECTIVE The New Tri-State Defender, August 5 - 11, 2021, Page 4

A sign of support for SNDD’s outreach efforts in South Memphis. SNDD President Rebecca Matlock Hutchinson at the home of South City resident Betty Isom. Hutchinson helped organize clean-up efforts after the home suffered extensive ﬁre damage. It has since been rebuilt. Residents listed blight as their No. 1 concern during community meetings. (Courtesy photos)

SoulsvilleUSA Neighborhoods Development District (SNDD): The People’s TIF by Rebecca Matlock Hutchinson Special to The New Tri-State Defender

When I think of South Memphis, I think of the community that has nurtured me throughout my life. I lived with my parents and brother at 644 D Mississippi Blvd. in Foote Homes and have fond memories of playing among the buildings with my friends. I received my primary education from caring teachers like Mrs. Mary Cole at Georgia Avenue Elementary School. I worshipped with my family at Metropolitan Baptist Church and attended Vance Jr. High, where I won the spelling bee, and where Daniel Ward, our amazing principal, was a father to all of us. I remember several small businesses, like Liberty Cash Grocery Store, which was a staple in the community. As an adult, my husband Noel and I purchased a home in South Memphis. We could have gone anywhere, but home is where we needed to be. It was instilled in me early to give back to others and look out for your fellow man. So, it’s not surprising that I chose a career that allows me to serve as the executive director of SCORE CDC and volunteer as the president of the Board of Directors of SoulsvilleUSA Neighborhoods Development District (SNDD), helping to find ways to develop and enhance businesses and neighborhoods. I love what I do because I can see the impact and positive results. My life has come full circle, and I’m fully vested in the work that I do because I feel an obligation to the community that has given me so much. It’s a community rooted in greatness, with a rich history in arts, culture, civil rights, education and faith. It’s home to Memphis’ only HBCU, the 159-year-old LeMoyne-Owen College; churches, such as Metropolitan Baptist and Second Congregational that are more than 100 years old, and the musically rich STAX Museum of American Soul Music. A powerful school of the arts now rests on its foundation. I choose to honor this history by taking care of the place where it resides.

However, it’s not the South Memphis I remember from my youth. Many of the businesses I patronized as a child no longer exist. Poverty and crime riddle our community, causing many to think it’s an undesirable place to live. We have our challenges, but there still are many wonderful things here and one that has always remained true is its people – men, women and children, who deserve the best Memphis has to offer. The people who work alongside me at SNDD feel the same. All of us live and/ or work within a five-mile radius of each other. We know the people of the community by name. We engage with them often and listen as they voice their concerns about the state of South Memphis and their desires for substantial improvements. I believe we are the ideal team for the job. My fellow SNDD board members and I collectively possess over 100 years of experience. We have led major initiatives, like Greenleaf, Knowledge Quest’s USDA organic farm; Memphis Black Arts Alliance, helping to lead in the arena of arts and culture; and South Memphis Alliance, working with our youth. The impact SNDD desires to have reaches beyond SoulsvilleUSA. Included are the neighborhoods of French Forte, South Main, South City and South Third. These are our neighbors and they, too, deserve a platform for their desires to be recognized. SNDD proudly serves as the voice of the people. We have combined our expertise and efforts to forge a united front that’s dedicated to representing the needs of the people – needs expressed to us during seven community meetings held over a five-month period. We listened and developed the people’s South Memphis Tax Increment Financing (TIF) proposal that addresses those needs. That’s why it’s called “The People’s TIF.” Finally, with SNDD, the people of the neighborhoods are the driving force of progress so gentrification isn’t a fear. The TIF (tax increment financing) is based on the increment or “new” tax dol-

SNDD board members (l-r): Pastor Marlon Foster (Knowledge Quest), Lar’Juanette Williams (Memphis Black Arts Alliance), Shelby County Commissioner Reginald Milton (South Memphis Alliance), Jeffrey T. Higgs (LeMoyne-Owen College CDC), Rebecca Matlock Hutchinson (SCORE CDC), Vanecia Kimbrow, Esq. (Memphis Music Magnet) lars generated through property taxes within a designated boundary. SNDD’s TIF proposal has been submitted to the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), and we’re currently waiting for the CRA to make a decision about which organization will receive the South Memphis TIF designation. We’ve been pulling together resources to help us revitalize our neighborhoods and we have “shovel ready” projects, such as the 38126 Innovation & Technology Center, in the works. But there’s so much more to do. If SNDD’s TIF proposal is approved, we estimate that over a 20-year period over $90 million in tax revenue will be generated. That money will be reinvested in the community. We envision a South Memphis, where the dollar is recycled several times before it leaves. It is a community that can economically support itself and the people who live there. None of the members of SNDD are doing this for the money. We’re doing it for the small business owners who want thriving businesses that can employ people in the neighborhood. We’re doing it for the parent who wants to allow their child to play outside safely without worries. We’re doing it for the children who de-

serve to have updated and safe playground equipment. We’re doing it for the families who want a full-service grocery store, with fresh fruits and vegetables at affordable prices, within the community. We’re doing it to beautify the neighborhood and get rid of blight that often houses illegal activity, rodents and stray animals. We’re doing it to help fund organizations that offer health services, workforce development and programs that help children and families obtain a better quality of life. We’re at a pivotal point. Greatness still resides in South Memphis. It actually never left. We want people to be able to see it as they drive down its streets and experience it everywhere as they spend time here. We once had a beautiful community, with robust businesses, massive homeownership and happy thriving families filled with pride for themselves and their neighborhood. SNDD is dedicated to making it happen again. (A proud South Memphian, Rebecca Matlock Hutchinson is a president of the SoulsvilleUSA Neighborhoods Development District (SNDD). For more information, visit www.southmemphistif.org.)

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The New Tri-State Defender

August 5 - 11, 2021

Page 5

RELIGION

The Afrikan Village offers freedom from ‘ecclesiastical slave masters’

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

A pastor for 20 years, the Rev. Norman Redwing now is two years into a move away from the more traditional practice of Christianity through The Afrikan Village in Memphis. “We visited The Afrikan Village in St. Louis in 2019,” said Pastor Redwing. “It was completely enlightening for us. Christianity is hindering our people. The Afrikan Village is Christian-based, but we believe our people, especially our children, should know their history.” The Afrikan Village in Memphis is anchored at 1225 Vollintine Ave. in North Memphis, across from the site of old Northside High School Redwing said traditional Christianity “is not working for Black people.” “We go to church and there is a church on every corner,” said Redwing. “Churches are like liquor stores in Memphis. There’s a liquor store on every corner. Every week, people come to church and go to the altar with the same problems week after week. They cry and shout. People get an emotional high in church. And then, the money collections start.” At the Afrikan Village, service looks somewhat different, Redwing said. There is prayer, a therapy session and libations poured out to the ancestors. “Our people have real problems we need to address,” said Redwing. “Religion is killing us. People need emotional emancipation. They need therapy. The same thing keeps happening in our communities. Doing the same old things in our worship experience is causing our communities to die.” Angela Redwing, wife of Pastor Redwing, said the pilgrimage to St. Louis was an awakening for her as well. “I was raised in the church,” she said. “But now, I’m learning more and more about the truth. I’m learn-

ing about so many things I had no idea about: things like the Lynch letter and the destruction of Black Wall Street. “It is important for our children to learn their history, learn to honor our ancestors, and to love themselves and their people.” Pastor Redwing said “honoring the ancestors” is important because “they struggled for us, never having known our names.” People come to the cultural center and Afrikan Gift Shop through the week just to take in the Afrocentric spirit of the former police precinct where the ministry is housed. “You see we have Black art on every wall,” said Angela Redwing. “Creating this space is important for our people, especially our children. “Pastor has a saying, that he has to unlearn before we can learn, and teach. So the process is unlearn, learn and teach. That is critical if we are going to have a spiritual experience that helps us to expand our circle of knowledge. In traditional churches, we are taught not to question God. We must change that mindset and encourage open discussions about everything that pertains to us.” Dr. Ray Hagins of St. Louis founded The Afrikan Village & Cultural Center in 2017. “One of the greatest joys that a teacher/spiritual leader can have is a congregation who is excited, motivated and inspired as a result of learning and growing in the truth,” said Hagins, in a letter posted on the organization’s website. “…Every week, we have been blessed by the testimonies of others from all over the world about how the Spirit of God has reached out to them via the various auxiliaries in our organization.”

The Afrikan Village in Memphis, at 1225 Vollintine Ave., was founded by Pastor Norman Redwing (above) after visiting The Afrikan Village & Cultural Center in St. Louis. (Courtesy photos) Angela Redwing, the wife of Pastor Norman Redwing, is a partner in the ministry of administrations at the Memphis Afrikan Village & Cultural Center. She is pictured with their three children: Elijah Redwing, with the family’s new puppy, Cola; daughter, RaeAngela Redwing, and elder son, Norman Redwing III, nicknamed “Trey.”

(For more information, visit www. theafrikanvillage.org. Or, call The Afrikan Village Memphis at 901-8591689.)

Party on the block … Norris Avenue Baptist Church, 1437 Norris Rd., gave away backpacks and supplies during its Block Party last Saturday (July 31). Notables attending included District Atty. Gen. Amy Weirich and (l-r) Shelby County Commissioner Reginald Milton, Commission Chairman Eddie Jones and the Rev. Dr. Rickey L. Dugger, the church’s senior pastor. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

The New Tri-State Defender, August 5 - 11, 2021, Page 6

Queen Riders CEA Brenda Bowen.

Queen Riders at the KlasAct Corvette Club Car Show in St. Louis. (Courtesy photos)

by Sydney Jones

DeSharon Plummer, Queen Riders president, said, “It’s not all about us driving nice, fancy cars. We are all about giving back to the community as well.” They organize different projects in the area to accomplish their goal of being an inspiration to their community. Their service projects include donating money to organizations such as St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Mid-South Food Bank. The club also works with organizations such as Toys for Tots and Habitat for Humanity. The Queen Riders also organized events where they handed out turkeys on Thanksgiving and gave fans to the elderly people. Because the Queen Riders is a group that consists of strong, inspirational women, they also focus on helping the women. They have given back to four women’s shelters in Memphis by donating “blessing bags” filled with toiletry items. “There’s a lot of stuff we’ve done, and a lot of stuff we have in the making,” said Plummer. In the future, the Queen Riders plan to work with foun-

Meet the Queen Riders all-female Corvette club

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

The Queen Riders of Memphis is the city’s first all-female Corvette club and they are doing great things in the community. The Queen Riders are an independent entity under the Strictly Vettes Corvette Club umbrella, founded by Maurice Woodard. Woodard’s wife, Trudy Woodard, shared the inspiration behind the Queen Riders. “One of the things my husband wanted to do in the past was have an all-female Corvette Club. He had this vision where he wanted us to be a blessing in serving the community, and that is what we are all about: helping and serving the community,” Trudy Woodard said. In November 2020, the women of the Strictly Vettes Corvette Club gathered for a photoshoot, and it was then that they established the Queen Riders of Memphis and began their outreach work.

dations that support people with lupus and sickle cell. They recently held a school-supply drive for the students in Memphis and plan to do another one in August. The Queen Riders use their platform to inspire youth to believe they can accomplish anything. “I just love driving the Corvette. That has been one of my dream cars. Now, I have been blessed with a Corvette, and I love to drop the top!” Trudy Woodard said as she discussed one of her favorite parts of being a Queen Rider. The 26 members Queen Riders have created a bond through their passion for the community and their love for Corvettes. They have made it a point to never let their love for cars overrule their dedication to serving the Memphis community. “It’s a blessing to be a blessing to others,” Plummer said. (Sidney Jones is a Clark Atlanta University student completing a summer internship with The New Tri-State Defender.)

‘Partners in Unity’ stage back-to-school family fun day in Hyde Park community by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

It could just as well have been a carnival or fair in North Memphis’ Hyde Park community. There were children everywhere, running over the grounds, jumping in the bouncy house, screaming down the water slide, and adults congregating in big-block-party fashion. And, backpacks, hundreds and hundreds of backpacks given out to all the children. Saturday (July 31) was this year’s highly anticipated 3rd Annual Partners in Unity Back-To-School event. Last year’s plans were cancelled because of the COVID-19 pandemic, making this year’s event gathering so meaningful. “Partners in Unity is made up of nine business owners and organizations from right here in Hyde Park,” said Marvin Colman, Partners in Unity president. “We’ve been pooling our resources together since 2018 to make this event happen. …There is no big corporate sponsor. This is our business community coming together every year to make it happen.”

Hyde Park roughly stretches along Chelsea Ave. between University and Hollywood. Although Hyde Park is in the 38108 zip code, one of the most economically disadvantaged communities in the city, its back-to-school annual event draws parents and children from all over the city. “These are not just people from Hyde Park,” said Sarah Carpenter, founder of Memphis Lift, an organization of parents who advocate for improvement in Shelby County Schools. “They are from all over the city – Frayser, Raleigh, Whitehaven – just from everywhere. And we welcome them because we do not discriminate when it comes to children.” Memphis Lift is a partner in Coleman’s organization. Saturday’s event was held at the corner of Chelsea Avenue and Tunica Street, on two acres owned by Coleman. The spot, Coleman said, is the future location of a vocational school to “teach children skills they can perform with their hands.” Coleman has led the business community in sponsoring family events, such as petting zoos and giveaways for the children.

Pictured (l-r) at the backpack give-away is Marvin Coleman, president of Partners in Unity, and Alfred Washington, Coleman’s brother and vice-president of the organization. (Photo: Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell)

“God gets all the glory for everything we have been able to do,” said Coleman. “We realize that without His help, we would not be able to accomplish these things.” Coleman owns a successful used car business, Chelsea Auto Mart. His brother, Alfred Washington, employs 500 workers at his Top Notch Security business. Washington also is vice-president of Partners in Unity. “We’re trying to make a difference

in our community,” said Washington. “We’re trying to show that there is Black pride and Black love here. “Even though we could not have this event last year, we gave out 2,700 boxes of food and produce last year at Thanksgiving. We passed out more than 250 turkeys. “At Christmas, we passed out over 300 winter coats and toys, also. This is important because we do all of this ourselves. There are no sponsors

from outside. We are a community of caring people.” The fact that the area is riddled with crime and poverty is pervasive in Hyde Park makes the back-to-school and other community events all the more important, said Carpenter. “Although residents in Hyde Park are some of the most impoverished in this city, we are still a community with family values and morals,” Carpenter said. “We care, and we want better for our children. They are the important ones, and this is all for them. That will always be the motivation – the well-being of our children.”

The New Tri-State Defender

August 5 - 11, 2021

Page 7

ENTERTAINMENT

Memphis singer, producer Ashley Ave. reaping the results of creating her own path by Liaudwin Seaberry Jr.

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Throughout her career, Memphis singer and producer Ashley Foster, who goes by Ashley Ave., has experienced the highs and lows of an ascending artist. Despite a substantial amount of adversity, she has managed to establish herself in both the music and production industries. Her burgeoning success included times in which she received criticism for paving her own way. After Ashley Ave. completed her college studies and basketball career at Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Missouri, she concluded that she needed take music, which long had been a part of her life, more seriously to manifest her musical aspirations. “I was pregnant when I recorded and wrote my first serious song, ‘Red Wine,’ in 2016,” Ashley Ave. said. “People really liked it and that’s when I realized I really had a sound that was big and my soulful sound was definitely commercial.” Armed with that realization, she wanted to be acknowledged as a creator and someone who could materialize something out of nothing. Throughout her musical career, she has crossed paths with many producers and songwriters. Ashley Bella, the CEO of ArtzyBella, noticed her talents at an event Bella hosted in August 2017. ArtzyBella empowers people with the ability to express themselves through art. “Ashley Ave.’s music tells a story you feel you can at least relate to,” Bella said. “In addition, she’s one of the hardest workers in the music industry. “I’ve watched her create an album, write the songs, help produce the songs, create the album artwork and music videos, and also utilize her marketing to promote her music simultaneously.” Singer and songwriter Felly the Voice recognized Ashley Ave.’s creativity in 2018 when she was asked to work as a creative producer for a project the songwriter and his group were taking on. Amazed and intrigued by the message of her music, he views Ashley Ave. as an uplifter and some-

Proud to have discovered her purpose in life, Ashley Ave. is grateful for the opportunities and doors that have been opened for her to succeed. (Courtesy photo) one who motivates people through her words. “She’s all about healing and helping to identify the broken and give them a voice,” he said. “Broken hearted, broken family, it doesn’t matter. … She always made it a point to make sure that whatever song she creates/sings, she’s singing to those that have been there, and who may still be going through it.” Ashley Ave. also has standout production skills, although she is relatively new to the industry. She has honed her directing and producing skills for the last three years, starting in Memphis-based productions such as “The Union,” which earned her the first opportunity to work on a major

set with the BET production “The Pull Up” with mega producer “Blackelvis.” Recently, she directed a music video for the song “Make It,” which features local hip-hop prodigy Yung Hunnid, who first caught major attention when he appeared on the “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” several years ago. As a plus, Ashley Ave. reached out to Celia Newman, the founder of the She Got Game League, a semi-professional basketball league for women in the Memphis area. Having a basketball background herself, Ashley Ave. wanted to help promote the league. “She pitched the Locker Room productions to T-Mobile and they loved the idea

and decided to sponsor it,” Newman said, referring to Ashley Ave’s push to include the new idea. “I love her addition to our league as our T-Mobile host and I plan for us to grow even more in the years to come with our partnership.” Proud to have discovered her purpose in life, Ashley Ave. is grateful for the opportunities and doors that have been opened for her to succeed. “Music is my raw talent, but production and directing brings me a different level of fulfillment also,” she said. “It’s helped me not to be afraid to walk through big doors to get what you want. It also showed me how a team is needed … to create something bigger than all of us.”

COMMUNITY The New Tri-State Defender, August 5 - 11, 2021, Page 8

TVA puts brakes on plan to remove coach ash from Allen Fossil Plant

Council weighs in with resolutions by James Coleman

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

After gauging reaction to a plan to relocate coal ash from the shuttered Allen Fossil Plant to a landfill east of Memphis International Airport, the TVA has decided to keep its options open. “This partnership put in place a process and shared responsibility to safely remove the coal ash and restore the site for the benefit of the community,” said Scott Brooks, public relations representative for the TVA, in a statement via Twitter. “We are taking time to further engage with our stakeholders and community partners to work together toward this shared objective.”

Memphis City Council members on Tuesday (Aug. 3) were provided details of a controversial plan to relocate the waste. “You all made great effort, I see in the presentation, to make sure to say this was Capleville and not Memphis. (But) this is Memphis. It’s a part of our city,” said Councilman Worth Morgan. “It may not be in the center, but we have to represent and defend the people on the edges of the city just as fervently as we do the people in the center or any neighborhood.” The southeast community lies 20 miles down the road from President’s Island, where both the idle plant and waste remain. The TVA plans to raze the plant and return the land to the City of Memphis, Shelby County and MLGW. Both the plant and the waste lie atop the Memphis Aquifer, the main source of drinking water for the city. To prevent the waste from possibly contaminating the city’s water supply, a pair of resolu-

tions were introduced to find another dumping ground for the ash. In 2017, TVA found arsenic levels 300 times higher than federal drinking water standards in groundwater near the containment ponds. Other toxins also were found. “I know my colleagues are supportive of a similar, or somewhat similar, resolution for TVA. And I am supportive of that resolution, but this is not a competitive resolution,” said Councilman Jeff Warren. “What this resolution is doing is asking to make sure when this is finally done, it’s not stored anywhere on top of our aquifer.” Warren sponsored a resolution that would ban the TVA from relocating any ash from the plant to any landfill within the Mississippi Embayment aquifer system. Containing six aquifers, the ebayment covers eight states. With a widening radius of banning the material, the increase in costs, such as transporta-

tion, inherent in the plan was brought up. “I just question the practicality of it, if we have to move it to New Mexico,” said Councilman Martavius Jones. Warren said his plan would carry the waste 150 miles to the northwest or northeast, where he said it would not threaten the ebayment. The other resolution would halt the current plan and urge the energy provider not to dump in the MLGW coverage area. Councilman Chase Carlisle recommended that the resolutions be combined. The TVA defended the plan, saying several alternatives were studied, including leaving the ash in place, closing in place and closure by removal. “This project is probably one of the most comprehensive looks at removal of the ash from the site,” said Cedric Adams, principal project manager for the Allen Plant. “The best decision was closure by removal.”

Car lot in Raleigh historic district voted a no-go by City Council by James Coleman

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

From the Summit … Designed to build upon the 2019 Memphis People’s Convention, The Memphis People’s Summit was held in a combination virtual/in-person format on Saturday. State Sen. Raumesh Akbari (District 29) was among the local officials who shared perspectives. The Rev. Dr. Earle J. Fisher (top), a key convener of the summit, will share his takeaways during an op-ed to be featured at TSDMemphis.com on Friday (Aug. 6). (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley)

Raleigh will have one less used car lot after the Memphis City Council Tuesday (Aug. 3) voted 8-3 to reject a lot intended for Old Austin Peay Highway. Two weeks ago, the council foisted the issue on the Land Use Control Board for review, only to reverse course. “Constituents were very concerned and upset after the last meeting, and they continued to voice their concern with the decision that was made. Therefore, it was pulled and put back on the floor for discussion,” said Councilmember Rhonda Logan, who spoke against the proposed car lot on behalf of residents who strongly opposed it. Rhonda Also, the council apLogan proved, by an 8-2 vote, a four-month moratorium on used car lots, gas stations, used tire shops or similar operations along the stretch of highway. The plan is to give planning and development and zoning departments and land use boards an opportunity to study the issue comprehensively. They will also be tasked with finding sustainable solutions to curb the proliferation of similar businesses. “We want to make certain we can provide time to review it in respect to the Memphis 3.0 plan, so those two can be more aligned,” said Logan. Memphis 3.0 is a comprehensive plan for the city’s growth and development over the next 20 years. It guides land use, development, transportation among other considerations. At issue is the protection of a once vibrant major retail thoroughfare, which is in transition, from more intensive, disruptive commercial businesses like the proposed used car dealership. A special license is required to operate a dealership. “It’s the historic district of Raleigh. Some of the oldest landmarks are in Raleigh. That particular area is the old Raleigh town center,” said Logan. Giving the car lot the thumbs down were council members Frank Colvett, Jamita Swearengen, Worth Morgan, Edmund Ford Sr., Michalyn Easter-Thomas, Chase Carlisle, J. Ford Canale and Logan. Council members Cheyenne Johnson, Martavius Jones and JB Smiley Jr., rejected the rejection. Jeff Warren and Patrice Robinson were absent for the meeting. Johnson and Smiley also voted against the moratorium. It was sponsored by Canale, Carlisle, Morgan and Logan.

The New Tri-State Defender

August 5 - 11, 2021

CLASSIFIEDS

COMMUNITY

MEMPHIS URBAN AREA ditional offers are received during TSU to pay off THE METROPOLITAN PLANNING this ten (10) day period, all proORGANIZATION spective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 9:30 a.m. on students’ In compliance with federal regSeptember 3, 2021, to be held ulations 23 CFR 450, the Memin the Shelby County Land Bank balances in phis MPO is proposing two (2) Ofﬁce, to determine the highest amendments to the Fiscal Year and best offer. The property shall (FY) 2020-23 Transportation Imthereafter be sold to the prospecmove to lift provement Program (TIP), which tive Purchaser making the highest are associated with an Air Quality and best offer without warranties Demonstration Report of any sort. financial burden Conformity for Shelby County, TN. AdditionalPUBLIC NOTICE

Special to The New Tri-State Defender NASHVILLE – Returning Tennessee State University students can spend more time focusing on their studies and less time worrying about finances after TSU announced it will be paying off their account balances. Instead of visiting the financial aid office, desperately seeking funds to cover previous school debt, the institution is wiping the slate clean. School officials said this will allow students to return to campus with their full attention on academics and campus life since being away because of COVID-19. The account balance forgiveness initiative applies only to returning students who were enrolled Spring 2020, Fall 2020 and Spring 2021. It will also cover Sum“This is mer 2020 really good. and 2021. “ W e It shows this are keenly is more than aware that just a school, the number one reason it’s a family. that stu- If something dents do happens, not return and I need to college help, then is lack of the school funds,” said TSU Presi- has my back. dent GlenI love it!” da Glover. — Jeia “Paying Moore off account balances for our students will relieve some of the financial stress that they have and allow them to focus on studying and completing their degrees. At TSU, we pride ourselves in going that extra mile to assist our students. And that’s precisely what we are doing by paying student balances.” Douglas R. Allen II, TSU’s vice president for business and finance, said funds to pay off the balances will come from the federal CARES Act, which was passed in March 2020. Earlier this year much needed additional funds were provided to educational institutions. “At the end of the day, it’s about the commitment to our students and the University,” said Allen. “This is one of several initiatives we are implementing to assist them.” “This is really good,” said Jeia Moore, a business information systems’ major from Memphis. “It shows this is more than just a school, it’s a family. If something happens, and I need help, then the school has my back. I love it!” Grad student Tramon Jones agreed. “TSU clearing my balance has been the best thing to happen to me all year,” said Jones, who is pursuing a master’s degree in Psychology. “No longer having a balance will allow me to focus on becoming a school counselor in my community.” This is not the first time TSU has used the CARES Act funding to assist students. In May 2020, the University used federal funds to assist students and support institutional needs due to COVID-19. TSU earlier announced it will be fully operational for Fall 2021 and is expecting its largest freshman class in five years. Freshmen are scheduled to move in August 10-12, with returning students doing so the latter part of the week.

Page 9

ly, the Memphis MPO will present for approval the Air Quality Conformity Demonstration Report for DeSoto County, MS, which has been updated to ensure compliance with Federal Requirements. The Memphis MPO will also present for adoption the FY 2022-23 Uniﬁed Planning Work Program (UPWP), approval of a resolution supporting the Memphis Area Transit Authority’s (MATA)’s Public Transportation Agency Safety Performance Targets for 20212022 included in their 2020 Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP) and a resolution supporting MATA as the recipient for Section 5307 funds and the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT), the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT), and MATA as the recipients for Section 5310 funds under the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA) and American Rescue Plan of 2021

The public is hereby given notice that the documents above are available for review and download from the Internet at: www.memphismpo.org. Additionally, the English language copies and the Spanish language summaries are also available for public review in the library systems of Shelby, Fayette, DeSoto, and Marshall counties. Written public comments will be accepted through Wednesday, August 18, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. Comments may be submitted to Pragati Srivastava, Memphis MPO, 125 N. Main Street, Room 450, Memphis, TN 38103 or via email at Pragati. Srivastava@memphistn.gov. The Memphis MPO Transportation Policy Board (TPB) will hold a public hearing on Thursday, August 19, 2021, 1:30 p.m. The full meeting agenda including details on how to participate in the meeting will be made available, 10 days prior to the meeting, on the Memphis MPO’s website: (memphismpo. org). It is the policy of the Memphis MPO not to exclude, deny, or discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, immigration status, sex, gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, religion, veteran status, familial or marital status, disability, medical or genetic condition, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal or state law in its hiring or employment practices, or in its admission to, access to, or operations of its programs, services, or activities. For any and all inquiries regarding the application of this accessibility statement and related policies, or for persons that require aids or services to participate either in the review of these documents or during the hearing, please contact Nick Warren, at 901-636-7146 or Nick.Warren@memphistn.gov. This notice is funded (in part) under an agreement with the State of TN and MS, Departments of Transportation.

working days of this notice. If ad-

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: Build A Legacy, Inc. Tax Parcel #: 03102300000010 Tax Sale #: 1701 Price Offered: $5900 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 September 3, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Ofﬁce, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property:

this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 9:30 a.m. on September 2, 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: 4D &lt;arketing Business Solutions Corp. Tax Parcel #: 03406500000110 Tax Sale #: 1302 Price Offered: $1000 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 September 2, 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:

Brian Bell Tax Parcel #: 0791480A000850 Tax Sale #: 1702 Price Offered: $2000 Terms: Cash

4D Marketing Business Solutions Corp. Tax Parcel #: 02606400000340 Tax Sale #: 1603 Price Offered: $600 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 September 3, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Ofﬁce, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

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 September 2, 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:

4D Marketing Business Solutions Corp. Tax Parcel #: 02606400000280 Tax Sale #: 701 Price Offered: $1200 Terms: Cash

Roderic Montrede Tax Parcel #: 04901600000160 Tax Sale #: 701 Price Offered: $2250 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

THE NEW TRI-STATE DEFENDER CLASSIFIEDS 1509 Madison Ave. Memphis, TN 38104 PH (901) 523-1818 FAX (901) 578-5037 HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. DEADLINES: Display ads Friday 5 p.m. Classiﬁeds ads Monday 5 p.m. STANDARD RATES: $6.00 per line for 1 column ad. Rates are non-commissionable and are quoted at the net rate. No refund for early cancellation. For additional information contact Sales Dept. at (901) 746-5201 or email: advertising@tsdmemphis.com. BEER PERMITS Flat Rate: $35 GENERAL INFORMATION:

spective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 10:00 a.m. on September 2, 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: Jason Panter Tax Parcel #: 02104100000410 Tax Sale #: 1701 Price Offered: $200 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 September 1, 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: Jason Panter Tax Parcel #: 0210620000007C Tax Sale #: 200 Price Offered: $200 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 September 1, 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.

Some categories require prepayment. All ads subject to credit approval. The New Tri-State Defender reserves the right to correctly classify and edit all copy or to reject or cancel any ad at any time. Only standard abbreviations accepted. Copy change during ordered schedule constitutes new ad & new changes. Deadlines for cancellation are identical to placement deadlines. Rates subject to change. ADJUSTMENTS: PLEASE check your ad the first day it appears. Call (901) 523-1818 if an error occurs. We can only offer in-house credit and NO REFUNDS are issued. THE NEW TRI-STATE DEFENDER assumes no financial responsibility for errors nor for copy omission. Direct any classified billing inquires to (901) 523-1818.

(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: Ercille Smith Tax Parcel #: 06103400000050 Tax Sale #: 1701 Price Offered: $3000 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 September 1, 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: Jason Panter Tax Parcel #: 02103100000370 Tax Sale #: 1701 Price Offered: $200 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 September 1, 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

Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103

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SPORTS The New Tri-State Defender, August 5 - 11, 2021, Page 10

Surprise-pick Ziaire Williams joining Grizzlies ready to ‘sacrifice my body and time’ by Terry Davis

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Ziaire Williams was thought by many to be an NBA lottery pick at the beginning of the most recent college basketball season. At season’s end he averaged 10.7 points, 4.6 rebounds and 2.2 assists for Stanford, causing some to wonder about the pre-season hype. The Memphis Grizzlies clearly were not in the skeptical group, selecting Williams with the No. 10 pick in the NBA Draft (July 29) after making moves to make sure the team was in a position to land the 6-foot-8 forward. “We were after Ziaire,” said Zach Kleiman, the Grizzlies’ general manager. “We had a great amount of confidence that he would not be there at (pick number) 17 (Memphis’ original draft spot). We are happy where we are as a team.” Taking the long view, Kleiman spoke of patience and time to develop. And while some Memphis fans on social media didn’t share his outlook, Grizzlies star point guard made it known he solidly was with the selection of Williams. Many had projected the Grizzlies would select a wing player that could

score and defend, with the team needing to improve on perimeter defense. Williams fits that mode, and he has a higher upside than some of the players Terry that some mock Davis drafts had projected going to the Grizzlies. “To my new organization, you will get a player that is a team-first player,” Williams said in response to a question. “I will be willing to sacrifice my body and time. This is an unbelievable experience. I am so grateful. All glory goes to God. I am super excited to be in this position.” Memphis was one of his favorites from the start, said Williams. “I had a workout with them and I love them, and they loved me. It was super fun. I feel like this is the perfect organization for me. I am going to give it my all. I am going to come in with a learning mentality.” Assessing his game, Williams talked about versatility. “I feel I can be a threat in all spaces on the offensive end coming off screens, shooting the mid-range. On

Ziaire Williams: “I feel like this is the perfect organization for me. I am going to give it my all. I am going to come in with a learning mentality.” (Photo: Stanford Twitter) defense, the same thing guarding guys on my position, smaller or bigger players. I am willing to be an impact for the organization.” Memphis also maneuvered to get the 30th pick from the Utah Jazz, selecting Santi Aldama from Loyola Maryland. From Spain, the 6-foot-11 Aldama was named the most valuable player of the 2019 FIBA under 18 European Championship. At Loyola, he earned first-team All-Patriot League honors, averaging 21.2 points and 10.1 rebounds in what was his sophomore year.

“What’s up Memphis,” Aldama said on his Twitter post. “Can’t wait to join the team, see the city, meet the fans. Go Grizzlies!” After the draft was completed, the Grizzlies signed Romeo Weems from DePaul and Tennessee’s Yves Pons, the SEC Defensive Player of the Year, with both slated to play on Memphis’ summer league team. The players that Memphis selected will not be available for the Utah summer games but will be available for the Las Vegas summer league, which will be held August 10-18 at

the MGM Center. Ahead of the NBA draft, the Grizzlies already had signaled that the 2021-22 team that clawed its way into the Western Conference Playoffs would have a decidedly different look. Jonas Valanciunas, who graded out as a double-double machine in points and rebounds, will no longer be patrolling the boards for the Grizzlies. He now works for the New Orleans Pelicans by way of a trade announced before draft day. In return for trading fan-favorite Valanciunas, the Grizzlies got Eric Bledsoe, Steven Adams and draft picks valued by the team’s front office.

Pushback has UofM athletics searching for answers to flap about new radio home

Memphis hoops duo wins an AAU Championship by Terry Davis

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

The senior basketball class of 2024 is shaping up to a great one. Two of its members – Curtis Givens III and R’Chaun King – are shooting up the recruiting charts. Both are sophomores at Memphis University School. The dynamic duo played on The Skill Factory AAU under 15 basketball team this season. The Atlanta-based Skill Factory has a prep school and post-graduate school for basketball. The pair was united to the team by Allen Gibbs, director for the AAU program. The Skill Factory played recently in the Peach Jam Classic, a Nike basketball-sponsored event considered the best AAU tournament for all age groups. The Skill Factory is coached by Reggie Dixon. And in its first Peach Jam, the team won the National Championship. The 66-60 victory over Team United of Charlotte, North Carolina was sweet for Dixon, a former coach for Team United. King scored 15 points and grabbed 13 rebounds. Givens III played well, scoring 11 points. A 6’6,” 230-pound forward built in the mode of Charles Barkley, King is athletic, works from the low post and can score off the dribble. He also has a decent mid-range jumper. He has been a model of consistency and can be penciled in for a double-double every night. Givens III is the engine that drives the train. He can take over a game at any point. His team-oriented focus has led to success not only for himself, but the development of his teammates. Now he has a championship that can be the foundation to build a legacy. Givens III is a six-foot point guard, who can score from all levels. He is a heady player and is always poised and under control, Dixon said. Givens is the son of super Memphis promoter Curtis

Listed as a second round pick on some mock drafts, including ESPN, Santi Aldama’s firstround selection by Memphis raised some eyebrows. This is his “Go Grizzlies” look. (Screen capture)

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to the New Tri-State Defender

Curtis Givens III

R’Chaun King Givens Jr. This is the second straight season that a Memphis basketball player has won a national championship. King and Givens III follow in the footsteps of Kennedy Chandler, the freshman playing at the University of Tennessee. Chandler won the championship while playing for MoKan out of Kansas City in 2019. The tournament was cancelled last season. The duo has attracted the attention of college recruiters. Both have received offers from the University of Memphis and some power-five schools. The Skill Factory played nearly 70 games this season and only lost six times. The Givens-King duo will return to MUS to make a run for a state championship.

According to the Director of Athletics Laird Veatch at the University of Memphis, he is still not sure how the school got hooked up in a media partnership with 98.9 WKIM Talk Radio. The outcry came fast and furious as news of the partnership spread last week and continued garnering negative reaction this week. Veatch said he and the athletics staff are still trying to “figure out what happened.” “We want everyone to know that we are hearing you,” said Veatch. “We understand how this matter would be concerning for so many in the Memphis community. Please know that we are still getting to the bottom of this, and we are committed to doing right.” Social media was inundated with responses to the hookup with WKIM Talk Radio. Howard Robertson, president and CEO of Trust Marketing, expressed disappointment in his alma mater for creating such a partnership on Facebook. Paula Wade posted on the U of M Athletics Facebook page: “Who is responsible for having made this decision?” Tom Jones of “All News Is Local” said in the announcement of this partnership, the statement, itself, “appears to acknowledge that the university know that the radio station was switching format to far right commentaries that have recently attacked Black people as wanting handouts…” Whether or not the university knew about the format change, Veatch indicates that the Athletics Department was blind-sided by the strong, negative reaction from so many supporters. “Tiger Sports Properties handles all of the media for Athletics,” said Veatch. That’s how this all came

“We want everyone to know that we are hearing you.” — Director of Athletics Laird Veatch about. Tiger Sports Properties is a division of Learfield, the multi-media rights holder for the University of Memphis. Multiple calls Tuesday and Wednesday to speak with someone this week about the partnership went unanswered, and calls were not returned. Cumulus Media, Inc., owns WKIM and chose to switch the radio station’s format to Talk Radio. Multiple calls on Tuesday and Wednesday of this week also went unanswered and unreturned. A late-May announcement revealed that WKIM 98.9 FM would be switching its format from pop music to right-wing talk radio. It is now “News Talk 98.9, The Roar of Memphis.” The logo displays a menacing tiger bearing its teeth inside the “O” of a giant, blue “ROAR.” The partnership Athletics Department and radio station partnership was also first announced in late May. An objector to the partnership noted that one talk show host on the station ranted against “blacks” and accused Democrats of “aborting babies to harvest their organs.” Michael Schroeder, director of Athletics Communication, said the university always wants the best representatives. “Already, there has been some re-

sponse to what we’ve been hearing,” said Schroeder. “Some of the programming has already been taken down. We appreciate it when things are brought to our attention. We will continue to take action to make sure all concerns expressed are being heard.” Veatch said the university’s Athletic Department is committed to diversity and equality for everyone. “UMADE was created, which stands for University of Memphis Athletics for Diversity & Equality,” said Veatch. “And I feel there has been real progress made. We have meetings, and recommendations are made. We have implemented some things that promote diversity and equality. This includes diversity and inclusion in our department operations. We are committed to doing right.” iHeart WREC was the former home of Tiger sports on radio. Although Veatch can’t say right now what “doing right” will look like, he said further changes may be coming. However, if the partnership stands as it is, 98.9 will be the new radio home of U of M Athletics for the next five years. Memphis Athletics and its multimedia rightsholder, Tiger Sports Properties, announced today that Cumulus-owned WKIM-FM, News Talk 98.9 “THE ROAR OF MEMPHIS,” will be the Tigers’ new radio home for the next five years. Starting in August, fans can tune to hear every football, men’s basketball and women’s basketball game. Broadcasts will include the weekly one-hour football and men’s basketball coaches shows, with Ryan Silverfield and Penny Hardaway, respectively. “I don’t have all the answers,” said Veatch. “We don’t get it right all the time, but we are trying. We really are trying. We hear what everyone is saying. We are listening. And I can assure you we want to do right. We are committed to making this right.”