The New Tri-State Defender - August 12-18, 2021

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August 12 - 18, 2021

VOL. 70, No. 32

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Ben Crump delivers fatal-shooting message

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

“This is a message, not only to Memphis, but to America,” said attorney Benjamin Crump. “Alvin Motley’s life mattered.”

Crump, one of the highest-profile civil rights lawyers in the country, took a stand with Motley’s family and local supporters during a news conference at Mt. Olive Cathedral C.M.E. Church on Tuesday (Aug. 10) afternoon.

Alvin Motley Jr., 48, who was visiting from Chicago, was fatally shot Saturday (Aug. 7) by a security guard at the Kroger Store fuel center

at 6660 Poplar Ave., near the Memphis-Germantown city limits.

The guard, Gregory Livingston, 54, was charged with a second-degree murder, officials said. He is being held in the Shelby County Jail on $1.8 million bond.

Witnesses told police the shooting occurred during an altercation stemming from Livingston’s demand that a car’s loud music be turned down.

A spokesman for the Tennessee Department of Transportation said Livingston “was not and is not licensed as a security guard.”

“Yet again, it is another unarmed, Black person killed, profiled because

of the color of his skin,” Crump said.

“How many more times do we have to face the senseless, unnecessary unjustifiable leaving of our children in the morgue and families with holes in their hearts?”

Crump issued a statement prior to the news conference expressing why he feels the killing was racially motivated: “…There is no question in my mind that this crime was racially motivated and a white person playing loud music in similar circumstances would be alive.”

Crump was joined at the news conference by dignitaries from across

Standing alongside Alvin Motley Sr., whose son Alvin Motley Jr. was killed by a security guard last Saturday, attorney Benjamin Crump decries the killing of another unarmed Black man. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley) the city and concerned community activists.

Presiding Bishop Henry M. Williamson Sr. of the First Episcopal CME District offered an impassioned open-

ing prayer, asking God’s mercy on “the plague of unarmed, Black men and women being killed in the streets.”

SEE SHOOTING ON PAGE 2

SCS students begin school year with support amid concerns, questions

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Marjorie Settles graduated from Melrose High School in 1965. Nineteen years later, her daughter, Leslie Settles, became a Golden Wildcats graduate.

On Monday, mother and daughter were among other alums lined along the front halls of the school, waving as students entered for the first day of the 2021-22 Shelby County Schools (SCS) year.

Their welcoming presence was meant – in part – to convey some semblance of normalcy as mask-wearing students, parents, teachers and administrators stepped into an academic year already singed by COVID-19 and now further threatened by its Delta variant.

“I know that the Delta variant is really bad right now,” said Marjorie Settles, detailing that she “went to the old Melrose, and we went to the same building grades 1-12. We want our

Mask-wearing students, parents, teachers and administrators stepped into an academic year already singed by COVID-19 and now further threatened by its Delta variant.

When it comes to supporting Melrose High School, Marjorie Settles is a veteran. (Photos: Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell) children to have that same sense of community. We were self-contained, and we want them to carry that on.”

Right now, safety relative to the pandemic is paramount.

“I hope our children can safely

come to school every day,” said Settles, “but we just don’t know right now.”

The weekend report of new daily cases of COVID-19 in Shelby County pictured the virus’ continued spread,

driven by the aggressive Delta variant. Monday’s new case number was 546, with four COVID-19 related deaths. More than 500 COVID-19 related patients are occupying area hospital beds, with pediatric cases alarmingly on the rise.

Shelby County Health Directive 24 was issued last week, mandating

that schools county-wide impose mask-wearing for both students and staff while inside. Ahead of the directive, SCS already had set mask-wearing as its standard.

Additional protocols by SCS require temperature checks of all visi-

SEE SCHOOL ON PAGE 2

Africa in April in August …

The International Diversity Parade signaled that the Africa in April Cultural Awareness Festival was back after a hiatus forced by the pandemic. See Community Page 7 for story, more photos.

(Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

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The New Tri-State Defender

August 12 - 18, 2021

Page 2

NEWS SCHOOL

SHOOTING

tors, including parents and vendors.

However, daily temperature checks for employees and students are no longer required.

“Return Stronger” is the watchword for Shelby County Schools (SCS) at the dawn of the 2021-22 school year and amid the threat of re-surging COVID-19 numbers.

The backdrop includes support from some Republican state lawmakers for punishing school districts that choose to go forward with mask requirements.

SCS Supt. Dr. Joris Ray, who stopped at several schools on Monday during the #ReturnStronger bus tour, detailed the district’s posture regarding the required wearing of masks during an interview on MSNBC. Later, he posted this on the SCS Twitter site: “At the end of the day, I’m an ACADEMICIAN and I will not let political pressure drive District decisions or put children in harms way.”

Parent Toni Isom pulled up to Hamilton High School Monday morning openly “skeptical about the children returning to school right now. …

“We see that the numbers were off the charts in Mississippi, and our children aren’t really safe. I’m dropping my son, Antonio, off here at Hamilton High, and I’m concerned about him,” said Isom. “But my daughter is only 11, and she can’t get vaccinated yet. I am really worried about her.”

Isom said her daughter assembled

Memphis Branch NAACP President Van Turner Jr., who also is a Shelby County commissioner, called for justice and pledged the organization’s support for the Motley family.

Wednesday (Aug. 11) morning, Turner reflected on Tuesday’s gathering.

“On yesterday, we stood shoulder-to-shoulder with another Black family whose son was shot down in his prime,” Turner said.

“We stood in solidarity with the Motley family, civil rights attorney Ben Crump, National Bar Association President Carlos Moore, Bishop Henry M. Williamson … and the Memphis Branch of NAACP members from across the city. We are demanding justice for the family of Alvin Motley, and we will not stop until they receive it.”

Motley was riding with friends, loud music blasting from the car when Livingston approached the car and demanded they turn it down.

There was an exchange of words, according to witnesses.

Motley exited the car, with a beer and a cigarette, saying to Livingston that the two should discuss the matter “like men.”

Witnesses told police Motley was not physically threatening and he was not holding a weapon when Livingston pulled a gun and shot him in the chest.

Afterwards, police were called by Livingston saying that he had shot a man. Motley was lying on the pavement, unresponsive, when police arrived.

“It’s just another case of white people imposing their will on Black people,” said Crump. “You obey me, and if you don’t obey me, I will kill you.”

Host Pastor Peris J. Lester I, presiding elder of the Northeast District of Tennessee, said his church always is open “to the community for the community.”

“We wanted to show support to the family and stand with those who are calling for justice,” said Lester.

“It is baffling to me that this young man got shot, and he wasn’t even the driver. And he was partially blind in both eyes. He had a disability.”

Alvin Motley Sr., Motley’s father, also spoke at the news conference.

Crump, along with the Motley family, met with Shelby County District Attorney General Amy Weirich.

Crump said the meeting was to “let her know how this family has been affected.”

Kroger released a statement Tuesday, saying Livingston was not employed by the company but a third-party contractor.

“We are deeply saddened, extremely angry and horrified by this senseless violence. Our hearts are with the Motley family. This tragic incident involved a third-party contractor onsite to provide security services at our Poplar Avenue Fuel Center,” Kroger said.

“We ask all third-party contractors to respect and honor our core values which include respect, diversity, and inclusion. We want to thank the Memphis Police Department for their swift action. The only outcome we seek is justice.”

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

(above) Edward Davis, educational assistant at Hamilton High School, had some outside duties as students began the 2021-22 school year on Monday.

(Photo: Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell)

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

Toni Isom drove her children to school Monday, the first day of the 2021-22 school year.

(Photo: Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell) in the cafeteria with all returning Hamilton Elementary and Middle School students.

“I’m concerned for all the students,” said Isom. “The pediatric cases are going up, and that worries me.

“I read and try to keep up with developments. I know they are working on a vaccine that would be safe for our children under 12. I wish they would hurry up and make that vaccine available. Our younger children really have no way to fight the virus.”

Leslie Settles, proprietor of JLMJ Creations, embroiders the uniforms and outfits for the Melrose cheering squads and dance teams. “Pumped and ready” for a new school year filled with games, dances and special events, she, too, has deep concerns about whether “it is safe for our children to be back in school. …

“We are here to support our children in every way we can, and I hope they don’t have to return to the all-virtual model,” she said.

SCS Supt. Dr. Joris Ray, who stopped at several schools on Monday during the #ReturnStronger bus tour, detailed the district’s posture regarding the required wearing of masks during an interview on MSNBC.

Leslie Settles’ jersey reflects her support for Melrose and the year she graduated. (Photo: Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell) “But these new variants are so contagious, we just might have to.”

As of Monday morning, the number of active COVID-19 cases

topped 6,000. According to county officials, the use of ICU beds is 92 percent. Acute care beds are 95 percent filled.

These Hamilton High School students were back in academic stride on the first day of school. (Photo: Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell)

(at left) FeedWells, a local food service vendor, teamed up with the Bully the Bull Foundation to host an anti-bullying and food nutrition rally at STAR Academy 3620 James Rd., on Monday.

(Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

The New Tri-State Defender

August 12 - 18, 2021

We’re right here for the young.

And young at heart.

What we do isn’t just about offering coverage.

It’s about recognizing the importance of physical and mental health, supporting your overall wellness and giving you one-on-one help at every stage of life.

Page 3

PERSPECTIVE The New Tri-State Defender, August 12 - 18, 2021, Page 4

Virtual-learning concerns, childcare needs highlighted in Stand for Children parent survey TSD Newsroom Stand for Children Tennessee has published the results of a community survey conducted in collaboration with Chalkbeat Tennessee to gauge the perspectives of Shelby County parents on virtual and hybrid learning.

The Parent Perspectives survey was launched by Stand’s Momentum Memphis Task Force at the end Arlithia of 2020 as officials were considering Mackey whether to reopen schools in Shelby County for spring 2021 or continue with the remote learning programs that had been implemented in March 2020 when schools closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The goal of the survey was to highlight the experiences, concerns and needs of families that would factor in their decisions regarding their children’s education for the duration of the pandemic.

Survey responses covered five areas of concern: • Supervision and support from a family member or qualified adult; • Reliable Internet access; • Mental health and behavioral issues associated with virtual learning; • Academic and instructional support, and • Consistent, dedicated and quiet space for schoolwork At the time of the survey, 68.55 percent of respondents indicated an intention to continue with at-home remote learning in spite of its acknowledged challenges, and 40.32 percent signaled a desire to continue doing so until the pandemic ends.

“The responses we received to our Parent Perspectives survey emphasizes the need for more learning options and extended childcare services in the face of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic,” said Momentum Memphis Task Force member Arlithia Mackey.

“As Shelby County Schools reopens with in-person classes this week, it is important that families’ concerns remain at the forefront of any discussions regarding learning options that may become available in response to changing local pandemic conditions.”

(View a summary of survey responses at stand.org/tennessee/blog.)

‘Little big brother’ needs to ease up on pandemic moves Rep. Antonio Parkinson Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Rep. Antonio Parkinson

Around 2010, Republican leadership passed and touted virtual schools in Tennessee.

When the pandemic hit and people wanted virtual, they said it was bad and the children needed to be in the classroom.

When children returned to the classroom and masks were required so the children could be safe, Republican leadership wanted to take the masks away.

Now, the same leaders want to issue vouchers as a punishment/ alternative for those parents who don’t want their children to have to wear a required mask (only indoors) while in school. This idea would allow them to take

their children to a private school where masks are not required but with public school money.

Well, here in Shelby County, ALL schools (PUBLIC AND PRIVATE) are required to wear masks.

So, where will these vouchers be used?

At the end of the day, all of this is too much for the citizens of our state. All of this back and forth,

the continued adversarial relationship between the state and Shelby County (the state’s largest contributor of tax dollars and resources) is non-productive and stressful to our citizens.

Furthermore, trying to live and keep your family alive and healthy through this pandemic is stressful enough in and of itself.

I pray that those of us that are in state leadership will take a

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few breaths and give local government and leadership an opportunity to govern without the threats coming from “little big brother.”

Remember, it is lives and livelihoods we are talking about.

(State Rep. Antonio Parkinson (District 98) is chairman of the Tennessee Black Caucus of State Legislators.)

The New Tri-State Defender

August 12 - 18, 2021

Page 5

RELIGION

Pastor shepherds ministers’ group, church through the worst days of 2020 pandemic

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

President Vernon Horner of the Memphis Baptist Ministerial Association will have led his group of spiritual leaders two years in January 2022.

Unlike former administrations, a global pandemic challenged the scope of his ability to lead.

“During the worst days of the COVID-19 pandemic, we were losing so many people,” said Horner.

“There were some ministers who died, and many pastors in the Baptist Ministerial Association thought we should close the organization down.

“But I decided to stay open through it all. I took a lot of criticism, but we got through it.”

Horner was urged by members to cancel weekly meetings because of safety concerns. When Horner continued the meetings, attendance fell from 50-70 members to a handful.

“A lot of the pastors began dropping off membership dues, but they didn’t stay for the meeting,” said Horner. “Now attendance is nearly back to pre-pandemic levels.

“I didn’t want to close the organization. Sometimes, when you close something down, it’s hard to reopen.

I didn’t want the Baptist Ministerial Association to close on my watch.”

Horner kept the decades-old organization afloat while also guiding his church through the pandemic’s most difficult days.

Greater New Bethel Baptist Church is at 316 George Rd. near Lakeview Gardens in Southwest Memphis.

Keeping both the organization and the church operating took strength well beyond what Horner was humanly capable of possessing, he said.

“A lot of the pastors began dropping off membership dues, but they didn’t stay for the meeting. Now attendance is nearly back to pre-pandemic levels. I didn’t want to close the organization. Sometimes, when you close something down, it’s hard to reopen. I didn’t want the Baptist Ministerial Association to close on my watch.”

— Vernon Horner

The family of the Rev. Carl Shelton Greer Sr. during his homegoing celebration at The Dwelling Place Christian Church, 3090 Austin Peay Highway, last Sunday. Rev. Greer died Aug. 1. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

LEGACY: The Rev. Carl Shelton Greer Sr.

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

The Rev. Vernell Horner, MBMA president and pastor of Greater New Bethel Baptist Church, stands with his wife, Barbara Horner. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley) “I think through this pandemic, God was certainly speaking to us,” said Horner. “The Lord wants us to trust him, and I mean pastors as well as congregations. As pastors, we teach and preach having faith in God, when many times we, ourselves, fall short. He promised never to leave or forsake us. In times like we’ve been through we have to trust what the Lord is saying to us.”

Major events had to be cancelled and adjustments had to be made in both the organization’s schedule as well as that of the church. Even op-

erating at a fraction of full administrative levels, the important thing, said Horner, is just to persevere.

“We had to learn some hard lessons last year,” said Horner. “The pandemic numbers show that we are now in a resurgence because of variants. We have vaccines, and we know what measures to take to stay safe.

We will ride this out, however long it takes. God is with our association, and He is with our church family.”

Horner founded Greater New Bethel after returning from California in 1989.

Right on time …

Temple COGIC Bishop David A. Hall, presiding prelate of the Tennessee Headquarters Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction of the Church of God in Christ, delivers a timely message during the 104th Annual Holy Convocation held at Temple COGIC Aug. 4-6. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

Pastor Carl Shelton Greer Sr. was eulogized by loved ones and fellow ministers who knew him best on Sunday (Aug. 8) at The Dwelling Place Christian Church. He was 70.

“It was a wonderful celebration of life,” said Pastor Carl Shelton Greer Jr., pastor of Holy Ground Church.

“He was a pastor in Mississippi. For 40 years, he served God’s people as a pastor. I preached part one of the eulogy, and his brother, the Rev. James Glover, preached part two.”

Greer Sr. was born in Hernando, Mississippi and moved to Memphis in his teens. He graduated from Douglass High School in 1968 and moved to Rochester, New York. While living there, he was drafted into the U.S. Army. He received the Purple Heart and an honorable discharge.

Greer Jr. said his grandmother was Madame C. J. Watson. Also in the family is Pastor Michael Glover, also of Memphis.

Ministry has been the family business for many in Greer’s family.

“I started preaching at the age of 15,” said Greer Jr. “Ministry has been in our family for generations.

My grandmother started seven churches. Even from very young, I always knew that I would be a preacher.”

Greer Sr. served as president and Rev. Carl vice-president Shelton of the Memphis Greer Sr. Baptist Ministerial Association.

He also was an instructor at the Herbert W. Brewster School of Religion in Memphis.

A member of the Masonic St. Paul Lodge, where he served for a time as Worshipful Master, Greer Sr. sang with his brothers and sisters after his mother finished preaching, Greer Jr. recalls of his father’s younger days.

Greer Sr. was an organ transplant advocate for Methodist University Hospital.

He leaves his wife of 51 years, Everlean Spearman Greer; two sons, three brothers, two sisters, six grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, family friends and many former members of his congregations.

Much appreciated …

St. James Baptist Church celebrated the first anniversary of service of Pastor Rodney Herron and his wife, Keisha Herron, last Sunday (Aug. 8). (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

The New Tri-State Defender

August 12 - 18, 2021

Page 6

ENTERTAINMENT

Memphis drumline is ‘putting on for their city’ in a battle with ‘The ATL’ “This is for us a dream come true. There, in that stadium, 50,000 people will watch and there will be a jumbotron to watch.”

— Corey Travis

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

The Memphis Youth Arts Initiative (MYAI) stages performances from a young, soulful drumline that moves crowds.

Stick-twirling, rhythm-driven drummers with majorettes and dance teams are a local favorite.

They have been seen in local parades, school functions and special events around the city.

On Saturday (Aug. 14) in Indianapolis just two years from the date of its inception, the performing arts organization will make history on the 50-yard line of Lucas Oil Stadium, the state-of-the-arts home of the Indianapolis Colts.

The premiere Drumline Battle event is hosted by Drum Corps International (DCI). The battle against the Atlanta Drum Academy is anticipated to be like a scene straight out of the “Drumline” movie series. A huge trophy and bragging rights are the coveted prizes for the winning team.

The event is a culminating highlight of the Drum Corps International Celebration Events, an annual gathering of drumming enthusiasts.

The competition will be the first DrumLine Battle ever hosted on the final night of the DCI season, and the first sanctioned contest, featuring competitive youth percussion ensembles, according to DCI principals.

Adam Suell, 17, a senior at Overton High School, will be representing Memphis on Saturday.

“We’re not just here practicing every day and working hard for nothing,” said Suell. “We’ll

A local favorite, The Memphis Youth Arts Initiative (MYAI) will put its drumline prowess on the line in Indianapolis this Saturday (Aug. 14). (Courtesy photos)

Two years from its inception, the Memphis Youth Arts Initiative (MYAI) will step onto Lucas Oil Stadium to battle the Atlanta Drum Academy.

be there putting on for our city.

We’re going there to win. Grind City all day.”

MYAI Founder Corey Travis said DCI watched the videos of the drumline performing and contacted him.

“This is for us a dream come true,” said Travis. “There, in that stadium, 50,000 people will watch and there will be a jumbotron to watch.

“Our children are so excited, but we’re still trying to raise enough money for our trip. We leave this Thursday.”

Travis has been working and personally funding the organization since its inception.

“All young people need something to do,” said Travis. “I wanted to have a place for young people, where they could come and really pursue their dreams. The practice and discipline help to build consistency and stronger character traits. Only 10 percent of the children we work with can afford to travel as we do.”

The other 50-60 children have to be supported financially, Travis said. But he is encouraged by the improvement in behavior and relationships with parents, siblings, other participants and classmates.

“We practice outside in a parking lot because of the space and safety concerns,” said Travis.

“Many of our children have suffered some form of trauma, and the living situation may not be

ideal at home.

“But they look to us for guidance, mentoring, instruction and structure. We are building a family here, and we have witnessed so much improvement from so many.”

James Crutcher, 14, has been with MYAI for about one year.

“I am in the ninth grade at Wooddale High School,” said Crutcher.

“I play basketball, but I love drumline, too. I used to be so angry. This program has given me so much.

“We’re bringing that trophy back home to Memphis. We’re going to win.”

Jaquirious Burkins, 13, is an eighth-grader at Bellevue Middle School. He has worked on the drumline before the organization was founded in 2019.

“I used to get in trouble a lot at school and at home,” said Burkins. “Memphis Youth Arts Initiative helps me stay active, positive, and it gives me something to do after school. It keeps me off the streets.”

Travis said the financial hardship has been worth the reward.

“We invest in the children who need us the most,” said Travis.

“MYAI is structured to encourage a future in college, a plan to success, or an opportunity to discover where their life’s dreams can take them.”

(To make a donation for this week’s trip to Indianapolis, go to: memphisperformingarts.org.)

COMMUNITY The New Tri-State Defender, August 12 - 18, 2021, Page 7

COVID-19 UPDATE

More safety measures in place to combat COVID-19 spread

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

New and updated masking, testing and vaccine measures are being rolled out in Memphis and Shelby County in an intensified effort to check community spread of COVID-19 cases, particularly among children.

There were 453 new case numbers reported Wednesday (Aug. 11) morning and three COVID-19 related deaths, according to the Shelby County Health Department.

Hundreds of new infections, mainly caused by the virus’ high transmissible Delta variant and unvaccinated residents, have consistently added to the numbers over the past two weeks.

Shelby County is averaging 595 new COVID-19 cases per day and 1,709 vaccinations per day, according to the Health Department. County officials said recent new case counts mirror numbers not seen since January.

There were 519 new cases reported Tuesday (Aug. 10); 546 and three deaths Monday (Aug. 9); 789 and one death Sunday (Aug. 8); 727 and nine deaths Saturday (Aug. 7); 549 cases Friday (Aug. 6) and 623 new cases Thursday (Aug. 5).

“I was looking at some past numbers that tell us exactly where we are,” said Dr. Bruce Randolph, Health Department medical officer.

“On June 17, the seven-day average was 47. Sunday, Aug. 8, our seven-day rolling average was 564.

“On June 17, the new cases were 78; Aug. 8, 546. On June 17, there were 357 active cases. On Aug. 8, there were 6,056. That gives you a clear picture of where we are headed.”

Randolph said those who have been vaccinated, as well as those who have not, should be wearing masks inside public spaces.

Because of a high percentage of one age group that has not taken the vaccine, children have been put at higher risk for catching COVID-19.

“A very high percentage of new case numbers are in the 18-44 age group,” said Randolph. “Many in this age group have not been vaccinated, they are the most active, the most mobile, and they are raising small children. They not only put themselves at risk, but they endanger their children as well. We continue to ask them to take the vaccination.”

The number of children sick with COVID at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital has more than doubled in a week. As of Tuesday (Aug. 10), 17 children were hospitalized, including six in critical care. One child waited in the emergency room for an open bed. Of the more than 6,000 active cases, 25 percent – 1,500 – are pediatric cases.

A masking mandate from the Shelby County Health Department for all employees, staff and school in-door classes has received some pushback from parents, especially in some Collierville parents. Some of those par-

ents made their anti-masking feelings known at Monday’s (Aug. 9) Shelby County Commission meeting and outside a Collierville school.

Collierville school district officials initially said the district would not enforce the Health Department’s school-masking mandate. After meeting with county health officials and attorneys, however, Collierville Schools will enforce the Health Department’s mask requirement for schools, the district said Monday afternoon.

“Effective immediately, any Collierville Schools student who refuses to wear a mask/face covering at school will be sent home,” district spokesperson Mario Hogue wrote in an emailed statement. “As a reminder, the only permissible exemption to the mask mandate is an ADA-approved disability.”

Daily new case numbers continue to alarm Shelby County health officials as community spread accelerates, unchecked by efforts to mitigate increasing infections.

Shelby County Schools announced Tuesday (Aug. 10) that Supt. Dr. Joris Ray’s leadership team is taking extra steps for COVID-19 safety.

The executive leadership team will now test weekly for coronavirus. Ray says the testing is an added layer of protection for his team as members visit schools around the district. Ray and his entire cabinet are fully vaccinated.

SCS is also encouraging employ-

Shelby County Schools announced Tuesday (Aug. 10) that Supt.

Dr. Joris Ray’s leadership team will now test weekly for coronavirus. Ray (pictured) said the testing is an added layer of protection as team members visit schools around the district. (Photo: SCS Twitter) ees and student families to take advantage of free voluntary testing that will be done on a rotational schedule throughout the school year.

More than a thousand students were tested on the first day of class this week.

Shelby County Government will begin requiring regular asymptomatic testing for unvaccinated Shelby County employees whose occupations place them at a higher risk of transmitting COVID-19, beginning with employees of the Shelby County Health Department.

The regular testing program will expand to other county employees in the coming weeks, it was reported.

Regional One Health and Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare announced COVID-19 vaccine mandates on Monday. The mandates for both systems will go into effect on Oct. 31, leaving employees several

Bouncing back, Africa in April flows in August

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

“I’m here because I needed to be here,” said Wilhemina Brice, referencing her presence last Friday at the 34th Annual Africa in April Cultural Awareness Festival – this one held in August as a workaround forced by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Memphis is my home, and I grew up with Africa in April. We missed last year’s celebration because of COVID-19,” said Brice.

“But so many other things happened. The killing of George Floyd really did something to our souls.

But we are resilient people, and the whole world watched. Just look around. We are here, and we are proud of our culture. This is all us.”

It was the second day of the fourday annual affair. A steady flow of festival-goers walked along the paths of Robert R. Church Park (located downtown at Beale Street and Fourth Street), shopping at booths where vendors cheerfully offered African garments, purses, jewelry, house wares and much more.

Like so many other festivals and events large and small, the Africa in April Cultural Awareness Festival, which is run by Executive Director Dr. David L. Acey Sr. and Associate Director Yvonne Acey, had to be skipped in 2020.

“I was so happy to see Africa in April come back this year,” said Brice. “My heart is smiling. The first thing I see is a statue of that grand lady at the Ida B. Wells Plaza, overseeing the festival today. That is history. African drums were beating at one of the booths when I entered.

Two young brothers selling their Italian Ice were playing hip-hop, and

“This is my first year, and I am really amazed.

I love it. I love it. We’re coming together as a people. And that’s what I like, too.”

— Linda Kirkwood

down along the curve, they are playing old-school, R&B. This is all so wonderful. This is us.”

Each year, a different African country is celebrated, with Botswana honored for 2021.

Native Memphian Jessica Grace, a food vendor, said she just had returned from New York.

“I’ve been doing this on and off for 13 years. I don’t have a restaurant, but I set up for fairs and carnivals, special events, things like that.

And this is great. It is the celebration of our culture. I just love being here, even when business is slow.”

Linda Kirkwood runs The Lemon Bar and makes seven kinds of lemonade, including watermelon and black cherry.

“I was living in Memphis, but I moved to Oxford, Mississippi,” said Kirkwood. “This is my first year, and I am really amazed. I love it. I love it. We’re coming together as a people. And that’s what I like, too.”

Patrick Smiley from Atlanta had a booth set up for his online business, Level 3 Apparel.

“This is my first Africa in April event,” said Smiley. “I usually do the Southern Heritage Classic. I’m on all social media platforms – Level 3 Apparel. I love all of this, our people, our culture. It’s cool. It’s really cool.”

Linda Rufus, proprietor of Cas-

weeks to become inoculated against COVID-19.

Southwest Tennessee Community College (STCC) officials reinstated the mask mandate Aug. 4. All students, employees, and visitors to Southwest locations are required to wear face coverings while indoors, regardless of vaccination status. The only exceptions are when employees who are working in a private office, or dining. The mandate does not apply to outdoors. Classes will resume on Monday, Aug. 23.

In Shelby County, 431,699 people have been vaccinated against the novel coronavirus. That number is 61.7 percent of the way toward the 700,000 vaccinated goal.

Vaccinations are still being offered free at Christ Community Health Center locations, area pharmacies, healthcare providers, Walgreens, and CVS pharmacies.

Southwest wipes out $1.8 million in debt for hundreds hit by the pandemic TSD Newsroom

The poster for the 34th Annual Africa in April Cultural Awareness Festival (held this year in August) was unveiled at the National Civil Rights Museum. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley)

The 34th Annual Africa in April Cultural Awareness Festival (held this year in August) unfolded last Thursday (Aug. 5) with the Entrepreneurs Luncheon at the Holiday Inn-University of Memphis.

Bishop Henry M. Williamson Sr. was named International Executive of the year for 2021-22. sie’s Corner, is from Little Rock.

This year she was a festival-goer; next year she plans to be a vendor.

“I came to see if the festival is a good fit for us,” said Rufus. “And it is. I’m just loving it. I’m loving the vibe. I’m loving the atmosphere. I’m loving the people. I’m loving the attire. I’m loving the food. I’m loving it all. I came this year to see how everything flows, and it’s just wonderful.”

Cheikh (pronounced “Shake”) is a vendor living in Atlanta. He brought scented oils to sell.

“I am from New York, but I came up here from Florida to participate,” said Cheikh. “I sell authentic African statues as well. I build profes-

sional websites, and I play drums as well. This is my first year, and I’m just checking everything out. It’s all good. It’s all good.”

At one point late in the afternoon, the sun peeked out from behind the clouds, radiating the newly-dedicated statue to anti-lynching journalist/ activist Ida B. Wells. Just off of the Ida B. Wells Plaza, a man beat on a drum, loud and free. Just inside the place, another man was in a deep sleep.

“Let the brother sleep,” said Brice.

“Who knows what he has endured.

Now, he’s taking a rest. We are many things. We are resilient. Sometimes, we sleep. I love who we are. I am proud of who we are. ”

Southwest Tennessee Community College has paid more than $1.8 million to clear outstanding balances for more than 1,600 eligible students who attended during the Spring 2020, Summer 2020 and Fall 2020 semesters.

The debt-relief package was funded with U.S. Department of Education Higher Education Emergency Relief Funds.

Students do not have to repay the relief funds.

“Our students were hit particularly hard by the pandemic and many of them had to leave college abruptly,” Dr. Tracy D. Hall, president of Southwest Tennessee Community College said.

“Wiping the slate clean clears a path for them to come back and move forward with their goals and career aspirations.”

Earning a college credential is “transformative for our students and removing this financial barrier to their success is the best use of COVID-19 relief funds,” Hall said.

“We are truly grateful and elated to be able to help our students in such a meaningful way.”

Southwest is allocating the federal relief dollars in accordance with U.S. Department of Education guidelines that require funds to be used to assist with any component of the student’s cost of attendance or for emergency costs that arise due to coronavirus, such as tuition, food, housing, health care (including mental health care), or childcare.

Students can log into the My. Southwest portal to view their account balance to determine whether they were provided debt relief.

Former students, who want to inquire about their eligibility for debt forgiveness, should call 901-333-5292.

Or, email Cares@southwest.tn.edu.

Southwest returned to full on-campus operations Aug. 2. Fall classes begin Aug. 23.

The New Tri-State Defender

August 12 - 18, 2021

NEWS

CLASSIFIEDS

Memphis 12 year old lands Metropolitan Opera opportunity TSD Newsroom One year after enrolling in an opportunity-driven opera class, 12-year-old Caleb Thompson – a Stax Music Academy student – will join the roster of the Metropolitan Opera in New York City.

Thompson’s upcoming experience with the most prestigious opera house in the country grew from creativity that surfaced after a pandemic-forced cancellation.

Opera Memphis was set to present “Beale Street Boheme,” which would have featured a chorus of youngsters from the Stax Music Academy, when the pandemic forced those plans into no-go mode.

Enter McCleave Directing Fellow Bethania Baray, who saw an opportunity.

Working with Stax lead vocal instructor Keia Johnson, Baray developed a new curriculum. Four students participated in the year-long class, which took place largely through remote learning due to COVID protocols.

“Ms. Bethania” – as she is affectionately known by her students – instructed the class on the history of opera, exploring language and musical styles unknown to the curious novices. The year concluded with a performance of “The Evening Prayer” from “Hansel and Gretel” sung by the four students in English and German.

The Metropolitan Opera will begin its 2021-22 season with “Fire Shut Up in my Bones” by award-winning jazz musician and composer Terence Blanchard. Thompson will understudy the role of Char’es Baby, the production’s only singing role for a child. After a search that included hundreds of applicants, Thompson, who persevered through numerous auditions and callbacks, landed the spot.

The piece marks the Met’s first performance of an opera by a Black composer in its nearly 140-year history.

Blanchard’s adaptation of Charles M. Blow’s memoir features a libretto by filmmaker Kasi Lemmons and will star baritone Will Liverman as Charles (2020 Marian Anderson Vocal Award winner; 2019 Sphinx Medal of Excellence) and sopranos Angel Blue as Destiny (Grammy award winner, Bess in “Porgy and Bess”) and Latonia Moore as Billie

Page 8

NOTICE TO BIDDERS Shelby County Government has issued Sealed Bid number I000688 Big Creek Park Levee Construction. Information regarding this Bid is located on the County’s website at www. shelbycountytn.gov. At the top of the home page, click on the dropdown box under “Business”, Click on “Purchasing” and “Bids” to locate the name of the above described Sealed Bid. SEALED BID I000688 DUE DATE MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 13TH, 2021 @2:00 PM (CST) (SB-I000688 Big Creek Park Levee Construction) All bids will be opened and read via teleconference by Shelby County Government at the time mentioned above. Please use the following information to join the bid opening: Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone. https://global.gotomeeting.com/ join/147286541

Caleb Thompson (Photo: Demarcus Bowser) (Grammy award winner, Serena in “Porgy and Bess”).

“What a privilege to help expand this relationship with Stax Music Academy and offer an opera ensemble class,” Baray said. “I knew these students would be one-of-a-kind, but students like Caleb have completely surpassed my expectations.

“Two semesters later, I find myself meeting with Caleb via Zoom to coach his audition for a role at the largest opera house in the world. He is incredibly hard working and talented, and I could not be more elated for him!”

The relationship with Opera Memphis and Stax stretches back to 2011, when students serenaded audience members at a performance of “Tosca” from the grand staircase in the lobby of The Orpheum. Since then, students have performed as part of numerous Opera Memphis events, Opera Memphis guest artists have made classroom visits, and at one point a faculty position was funded in part by Opera Memphis.

The class with Thompson was the first year-long class that focused specifically on opera.

Johnson said Thompson is “the kind of student every teacher wants. He’s joyful, hardworking, funny and so talented.

“But it’s how his family supports him that warms my heart,” Johnson said.

“When Caleb wins, they all rejoice and I consider myself lucky to be a part of his village. I am so proud to teach voice to him but mainly to be someone in his life that gets to see him win; go Caleb go!”

(For more information, visit: staxmusicacademy.org; Contact info@operamemphis. org.)

You can also dial in using your phone.

United States: +1 (312) 757-3121 Access Code: 147-286-541 Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting – All interested respondents are invited to participate in this meeting via teleconference on Tuesday, August 24, 2021 at 9:30 am (CST).

Please use the following information to join the pre-bid meeting: Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone. https://global.gotomeeting.com/ join/183874333 You can also dial in using your phone.

United States: +1 (646) 749-3122 Access Code: 183-874-333 Respondents may also contact Shelby County for information at the following numbers, TTY Number (901) 222-2301 or for information in Spanish 901-222-4289.

Shelby County is an equal opportunity affirmative action employer, drug-free, and with policies of non-discrimination on the basis of race, sex, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or military service. Shelby County encourages participation from WBE, MBE, LOSB, and Section 3 firms and vendors under this CDBG-NDR response.

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: Octavius Nickson Tax Parcel #: 03502600000070 Tax Sale #: 1203 Price Offered: $2000 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 10, 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: Kyla Campbell Tax Parcel #: 07608700000230 Tax Sale #: 1101 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 10:30 a.m. on September 10, 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

By order of LEE HARRIS, MAYOR SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT

NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE

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

DEADLINES: Display ads Friday 5 p.m.

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

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: Kyla Campbell Tax Parcel #: 0760880A000220 Tax Sale #: 1101 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 this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 10:00 a.m. on September 10, 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: Kyla Campbell Tax Parcel #: 07608800000140 Tax Sale #: 602 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 ad-

(901) 746-5201 or email: advertising@tsdmemphis.com.

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.

ditional 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 10, 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: New Hidden Valley Real Estate Company LLC Tax Parcel #: 07520100000030 Tax Sale #: 1302 Price Offered: $2500 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 10, 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: Octavius Nickson Tax Parcel #: 03502600000040 Tax Sale #: 1603 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 1:30 p.m. on September 10, 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

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The New Tri-State Defender

August 12 - 18, 2021

Page 9

SPORTS

Hardaway, Tigers busy during off-season

by Terry Davis

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

It has been a busy summer for University of Memphis’ head basketball coach Penny Hardaway and the Tigers.

For the last two months, Hardaway has been sailing through national waves.

The first wave was Hardaway’s consideration Terry of leaving the U of M to Davis pursue an NBA head coach position.

Hardaway eventually decided to remain with Memphis, plus he accomplished his longsought goal to hire legendary college and NBA coach Larry Brown.

Hardaway wanted to bring Brown on board with his original staff four years ago, but he was rebuffed by the administration.

The second wave was the Aug. 6 announcement by highly touted, five-star recruit Jalen Duren that he was coming to Memphis.

Jalen Duren is the No. 1 prosDuren pect in the nation according to Rivals. With Duren’s signing, Memphis now has the fifth-best recruiting class in the country for 2021-22 per 247Sports.

“Jalen is an unbelievable talent and he is an even better person,” Hardaway said. “We are extremely happy to have him in a Tigers’ uniform.”

Duren played last season at Montverde Academy in Florida, where he helped the squad to the 2021 High School Nationals championship. He averaged 14.5 points and 9.3 rebounds per game, while shooting 62.9 percent from the floor.

He averaged 12.7 points, 9.0 rebounds and 2.0 blocks in three games at Nationals and had nine points and nine rebounds in the title game.

Former Tiger and current Toronto Raptors forward Precious Achiuwa also suited up for Montverde Academy.

Duren excelled on this year’s summer circuit, helping Team Final to the Nike Peach Jam Championship.

Duren had 17 points, 10 rebounds and three blocked shots in the championship game over Brad Beal Elite. He played 15 games with Team Final in July and contributed 13.7 points, 8.7 rebounds and 2.3 blocks per game.

The fireworks may not be over for Hardaway.

It is widely believed that Hardaway will name former NBA All-Star Rasheed Wallace to fill the team’s remaining coaching vacancy.

Wallace currently coaches on the AAU circuit and was in Memphis earlier this summer for the Allen Iverson Classic. Hardaway appeared on Wallace’s podcast earlier this summer.

Hardaway also is in the hunt for Emoni Bates, a top-rated four-star guard, who was rated the number two player in the class of 2022. Bates reclassified to the class of 2021.

TIGERS FOOTBALL

Calvin Austin III, Kylan Watkins – former walk-ons are partners on and off the field

by Liaudwin Seaberry Jr.

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

As former walk-ons for the University of Memphis football team, wide receiver Calvin Austin III and running back Kylan Watkins have experienced criticism.

Each was viewed as an underdog due to their size. Throughout their careers, both put in the work to rise above the adverse situations they experienced as freshmen at Memphis.

Now fifth-year seniors, Watkins and Austin possess the determination to strongly finish their collegiate careers during the upcoming football season.

Their partnership, however, extends beyond the football field. Both have known one another from a very young age. As roommates for the past two and a half years, their bond has grown exponentially.

As a result, they learned to push each other to be among the best, whether on the practice field or in just about anything.

“As walk-ons, it was a grind to get where we needed to be,” Austin said. “Nothing was given to us, which makes everything even better for us because that taught us everything worth having is earned.”

Watkins and Austin were star athletes at their respective high schools. Austin showcased his talents at Harding Academy of Memphis and Watkins excelled at Whitehaven High School.

Their on-field exploits put them in rare company at the high-school level, but when they looked to play at the next level, Memphis initially did not offer either player a scholarship.

Watkins committed to the University of Tennessee at Martin after his senior year, but ultimately realized that his heart was in Memphis.

As a walk-on to the football team for the 2018-19 season, Watkins never looked at that distinction as a negative.

“There were times that it was really difficult, but being a walk-on made me hungrier to push myself even harder than I had before,” Watkins said.

“I realized that everything I earned would not be given to me, and that I would have to put in even more work to get where I wanted to be.”

He redshirted his first year and endured several injuries.

Playing behind future NFL running backs Darrell Henderson and Tony Pollard, Watkins did his best to soak in the knowledge.

Hard work yielded a football scholarship just before the beginning of the 2019-20 season, and he rushed for almost 400 yards in limited action. Last season, he amassed almost 600 yards of total offense, scoring two touchdowns.

Calling Watkins “one of the smartest players on the team,” Tigers wide receivers coach David Glidden said, “… it’s good to see him back healthy after two years of being injured. …

“He’s going to do a lot for us this season, whether it be running the ball or catching it out of the backfield.”

Austin entered the collegiate ranks doubling as a track athlete and football player. While track came easy to him at the collegiate level, it took a while for him to settle onto the football field.

That is until the 2020-21 season, Austin’s

Named to several preseason watchlists, Calvin Austin III is focused on helping the Tigers win another conference championship. (Photo: Terry Davis/TSD Archives)

The Tigers are expecting a lot from Kylan Watkins, “whether it be running the ball or catching it out of the backfield.” (Photo: Terry Davis/TSD Archives) redshirt junior year.

He became the number-one receiving option for the Tigers, hauling in 63 passes for more than 1,000 yards, and scoring 11 touchdowns.

He earned First-Team All-AAC honors, which thrust a ton of expectations on him and his team heading into the upcoming season.

Austin considered entering the 2021 NFL draft, but ultimately decided to return to the Tigers.

“Calvin has gotten better every year he’s been here, and I think that we have yet to see the best of him, even after his season last year,” Glidden said.

While Austin appreciates being named to several preseason watchlists, including one for the Biletnikoff Award, given to the best wide

receiver in college football, he acknowledged that the Tigers winning another conference championship serves as the only true award that matters.

“It’s good to hear about what we can do, but going out on the field and taking care of our business remains the goal.”

Given the expectations to perform at a high level this season, both Austin and Watkins know they have to put in the work to succeed on the field.

“All the times we’ve run routes after practice and lifted weights during the offseason will pay off this year,” Watkins said confidently.

“Both Calvin and I have put in the work to get where we want to be, and I am excited to be ready to go at full speed for this year.”

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The New Tri-State Defender

August 12 - 18, 2021

Page 10