The New Tri-State Defender (October 15-21, 2020) by The Tri-State Defender

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VOL. 69, No. 42

October 15 - 21, 2020

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Waiting was a part of the process on Wednesday morning for those lined up to cast early-voting ballots at the precinct at Anointed Temple of Praise, 3939 Riverdale Rd. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises)

The lines tell the story: Early voting is here!

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

As the early-voting period opened on Wednesday, Barbara Hampton was among the many who chose to exercise their civic duty and pushed forward to do so despite pandemic-singed circumstances. “It is my duty to vote. I came up here to Glenview earlier and the line was so long,” said Hampton. “I thought about a mail-in ballot, but

Meharry’s drug research, rising numbers and a testing appeal

Don’t get tricked – or intimidated – into giving away your vote PAGE 4

(President) Trump is trying to throw them out, and we’re trying to throw him out. “So, I thought I would try again this afternoon. The line was much shorter. I voted already, left, and brought my mom back. She’s inside voting now.” Long lines and packed parking lots in mul-

tiple locations pointed toward more than business as usual for a first day of early voting. According to Suzanne Thompson, spokesperson for the Election Commission, a poll worker at Anointed Temple of Praise (ATOP) in the Hickory Hill community reported that one of the first voters at the precinct declared that she had arrived at 3 a.m. to secure a place at the front of the line. “This morning, we also received word that a 90-year-old, first-time voter was so happy

COVID-19 UPDATE:

SEE VOTE ON PAGE 9

Push intensifies to free Pervis Payne as execution looms by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Meharry Medical College is on the verge of producing innovative, game-changing therapeutic drugs that could stem the tide of COVID-19’s rampant spread, according to the college’s researcher-in-chief. Dr. James E. K. Hildreth, president and CEO of the largest private, historically black healthcare institution, said Meharry is among those research colleges and universities leading in the race to discover medical breakthroughs to fight COVID-19. “We are developing therapeutic drugs which will block the replication of the virus,” said Hildreth. “Also, one of our surgeons is developing a novel ventilator to deal with the shortage of ventilators.” With a national COVID-19 death toll exceeding 219,000, Meharry’s developments is welcome news as a second wave of infections surges across the nation. Although Hildreth declined to say when exactly the treatments would be available for public use, they are expected to be accessible before a safe and effective virus vaccine is ready. In a COVID-19 update for the Nashville-Davidson County metro area, Hildreth warned that a study conducted by the University of

about getting the opportunity to vote that she was dancing right there inside that voting location,” Thompson said. Another voter, according to Thompson, “happily shared” that he had waited in line for three hours. Twenty-six locations were open throughout the county and wait times were much shorter at many of them, officials reported.

Dr. James E. K. Hildreth, president/CEO of Meharry Medical College, talks with workers engaged in testing for COVID-19. (Courtesy photo) Florida proves that the coronavirus is not only airborne, but particles of the virus can remain on a surface over the course of an entire day. “Four out of five infected people are infected by those who have no symptoms, and the virus can stay on a surface for a day,” Hildreth said. “That is why wearing masks in public, washing hands frequently and social distancing are so important.” Shelby County Health Department Medical Director Dr. Bruce Randolph again touted the same measures to combat the rising numbers of new COVID-19 cases in Shelby County. Monday’s positives totaled 347 reported from tests administered from Oct. 7-10. The Health Department Wednesday (Oct. 14) morning reported 144 new cases of the

novel coronavirus. That brings the cumulative total of COVID-19 cases in the county to 33,625. Also Wednesday, the Health Department reported two new COVID-19 related deaths; 539 people in Shelby County have died from complications caused by the virus. “We’re getting calls all the time that limited-service restaurants and other establishments are not complying with the directives for everyone to wear masks in public and social distance six feet,” Randolph said. “It is little wonder that new cases are rising.” Meharry’s Hildreth warned that moving into this winter’s surge of new cases, it is unsafe to send children back to school at this time as dis-

SEE COVID-19 ON PAGE 2

Pervis Payne, 53, has been housed on Tennessee’s death row for 33 years. Execution is set for Thursday, Dec. 3, 2020. But a growing coalition of legal allies and organizations are pushing for Gov. Bill Lee to free Payne, who has professed his innocence from the first. And the prospects of full exoneration have supporters feeling “very optimistic.” Federal defense attorney Kelley Henry recently got approval to have evidence tested for DNA. She has teamed up with the Innocence Project in Nashville. “Mr. Payne’s case is tailor-made for the governor’s intervention,” said Henry. “You have an Pervis intellectually disabled man Payne who is unable to assist in his own defense. There are openly racial overtones in the case, and systemic racial aspects imposed and perpetuated by the attorney general’s office.” Payne’s younger sister, Rolanda Holman, was 13 when Pervis “went away.” Her mother, Bernice Payne, who lost her battle with cancer

SEE PAYNE ON PAGE 2

The New Tri-State Defender

October 15 - 21, 2020

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NEWS PAYNE

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

With recent local COVID-19 numbers moving upward, Shelby County Health Department Medical Director Dr. Bruce Randolph again stressed the need for complying with Health Department directives, including the wearing of masks and social distancing six feet or more. (Courtesy photo)

COVID-19

CONTINUED FROM FRONT tricts throughout the state look at allowing children to return to in-person classes. Lack of ventilation in closed spaces, such as schools and churches, can be dangerous, he said. “It is now beyond dispute that children can be infected, will be infected, some of them will get sick, and unfortunately, as we know, some of them will also die,” Hildreth said in last week’s update. The Shelby County Health Department has come under fire for issuing Health Directive 14, which recommends masking and social distancing for schools, rather than mandating those measures. Randolph said Health Department officials cannot impose those mandates on schools. Administrators can choose to adopt those actions as “best practices” for a safe return to the classroom. However, if a school experiences an outbreak, it will be subject to closure, just like any other establishment. “School officials have the authority to set policy – to accept or reject our best practice recommendations,” said Randolph. “But if there is an outbreak, we will make sure the case is isolated and contacts are quarantined as well. We reserve that authority to step in and close that school if the outbreak is not contained.” Shelby County Schools opened this fall in a completely virtual format. Davidson County students began the academic year with a hybrid plan using both in-person and virtual-learning models. Hildreth raised eyebrows last week when he said that lawmakers are “the least qualified to determine when students should return to the classroom.” Upward-bound numbers

Suited to deal with the pandemic environment, Dr. Reginique Green with Christ Community Health Services said more testing for the virus is needed at a time when the numbers of those getting testing has shown a decline. (Courtesy photo) show Tennessee confirming more than 215,000 coronavirus cases. Davidson County’s total is approaching 31,000, with 322 deaths, and Shelby County has logged nearly 34,000 cases, with 540 deaths. More testing needed While new COVID-19 cases are rising, Dr. Reginique Green, chairperson of medicine for Christ Community Health Services, said there may be a more dramatic increase in coming days. “What we have seen is the percentage of tests coming back positive is up, but testing is down,” Green said. “We need more testing, and Christ Community has opened Saturday testing now.” Green said Shelby County needs higher testing numbers, especially among those who work in high-contact jobs, particularly identified as essential.

Tests are free of charge, and Christ Community is seeking to remove every obstacle to COVID-19 testing. “I believe there are a number of reasons why testing is down,” said Green. “People are just COVID-fatigued, mixed messages are coming from the top, and they are trying to figure out how to transition and just live with COVID-19. But more testing is needed because the numbers are rising.” Green said the clinics are armed with rapid COVID-19 and rapid ﬂu tests. People may just be coming in sicker this year, having contracted them both. “Flu season begins at the end of December and the first of January,” Green said. “Two people have already been diagnosed in the U.S. with having both COVID-19 and the ﬂu. That is an even more dire situation for vulnerable populations, but we are getting prepared.”

in 2005, never stopped believing that “God was going to bring Pervis home.” “Momma always said that, ‘God had left a witness,’” said Holman. “She would say every December, ‘Pervis is coming home next year.’ We believe it, and we believe the DNA evidence will support Bubba’s story. That’s what I call him. When I was a baby, I couldn’t say, ‘Brother,’ so I called him ‘Bubba.’ And that’s what I call him to this day.” Payne is accused of killing Charisse Christopher, her two-year-old daughter, and leaving her four-year-old son for dead. The victims were fatally stabbed. “We got involved because this case was a heinous miscarriage of justice,” said Attorney Kimkea Harris, of the Ben F. Jones Branch of the National Bar Association. “We want to raise the level of community awareness regarding this case because key pieces of evidence were never tested, court transcripts were rife with racial references which were improper and illegal. They were common, however in 1988.” Harris said the Bar blames the perpetuation of “wrongful conviction of an innocent man” on a “bad attorney general” who has a record of being disciplined for lying and omitting evidence. “Attorney General Amy Weirich has a long history of manipulating cases by lying and withholding evidence,” Harris said. “Look at what happened in the case of Nora Jones, the lady accused of killing her mother. Ms. Jones is free today because Weirich is a bad attorney general. We are going to see that she is challenged in her 2022 re-election bid.” Weirich fired back, stating: “For 30 years the defendant has been trying to run from what he did that day—run from what a jury sentenced him to. Countless state and federal courts have reviewed this case— including the United States Supreme Court. “Each time, the same result: they find the evidence against the defendant overwhelming and his explanation unbelievable. That is because you can’t outrun the facts of this case… the truth about what the defendant did and how this family suffered and is still suffering. He knew full well what he was doing…The officer who quickly responded to a 911 call from victims’ neighbor saw the defendant running from the scene ‘sweating blood’… “He admitted to being there and to holding the murder weapon…These last minute efforts are self-serving as well. The time for the defendant

A childhood photo of Pervis Payne and his sisters (l-r) Rolanda (Holman) and Tasha Payne (deceased). (Courtesy photo) to finally be held responsible is long overdue.” Holman said Weirich has consistently stood against having key items DNA-tested. She believes her brother went into the apartment to help the victims. “Bubba’s story has never changed,” Holman said. “He went to see his girlfriend, but she was not home. He heard noise across the hall and opened the door to the gruesome scene. A knife was sticking out of the woman’s neck, and he pulled it out. That’s how he got that blood on him. He ran out when he realized the police would think he did it. Bubba has an intellectual disability, and he was only 20. Of course, he ran.” Payne is the son of COGIC Bishop Carl Payne. He is housed at Riverbend Correctional Facility in Union City, TN. A rally of support is planned for Saturday at the downtown Memphis I Am A Man Plaza, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. DNA results are expected to be available by mid-November, said Henry. Additional rallies will be planned throughout the end of the year, according to youth mentor and community activist, Rev. Kevin Brooks.

EVERYTHING IS ON THE LINE This election and your health are important. Remember you have options to vote and ways to stay healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic. Shelby County wants you to Mask up, Social Distance and exercise your right to vote in the upcoming Election. Here are voting options for registered voters to consider:

• ABSENTEE BALLOTS MUST BE RECEIVED BY OCTOBER 27TH • EARLY VOTE DURING OCTOBER 14TH THROUGH OCTOBER 29TH • VOTE ELECTION DAY ON NOVEMBER 3RD

We’re Known By the Money you Keep!

www.shelbycountytn.gov/ShelbyVotes #ShelbyVotes #EverythingIsOnTheLine

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The New Tri-State Defender

October 15 - 21, 2020

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PERSPECTIVE The New Tri-State Defender, October 15 - 21, 2020, Page 4

Don’t get tricked – or intimidated – into giving away your vote by Linda S. Wallace

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Fearful people are at work trying to undermine our democracy. Unfortunately, I’m not talking about Chinese or Russian agents. I’m referring to the neighbor next door who is so afraid of ending up on the losing side of the Nov. 3 presidential election that he/she/they view scare tactics and dirty tricks as the highest form of patriotism. In Shelbyville, TN, Linda S. homeowners with Wallace yard signs supporting the Joe Biden-Kamala Harris ticket recently were visited by a group claiming to be the Ku Klux Klan. The intruders damaged the Biden-Harris signs and left an ominous warning on a business card: “You have been paid a social visit by The Knights of The Ku Klux Klan. Don’t make the next visit a business call.” Now I’d call that a threat. Meanwhile, in California, the GOP is using social media to try to get voters to drop their absentee ballots into unauthorized drop-off boxes, according to news reports. These unofficial drop-off boxes certainly raise questions: Who’s going to collect them? Will the ballots ever be seen again? Some California Republicans contacted by the Washington Post defended their social media posts directing people to the unofficial ballot drop-off boxes, arguing that they were simply taking advantage of a state law, passed by the Democrats, regarding ballot harvesting. In California, an individual is permitted to hand over a mail-in ballot to a third-party, who then is authorized to deliver the ballot. In the past, the Democrats have held parties where voters filled out mail-in ballots and left them to be returned by volunteers. Hmm. If this ballot drop-off box confusion weren’t upsetting enough, the Federal Bureau of Investigation piled on more alarming news by announcing it uncovered a plot by individuals connected to anti-government militia to abduct Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. Thirteen people have been charged. Democrats and Republicans are gathered at a risky intersection – one in which sharp political divisions and dirty tricks are clogging the arteries of democracy. No matter which side we are on, conservative or liberal, it is safe to assume wayward members of our preferred team have engaged in wrongdoing and deception. If we are going to get through this, citizens need to band together and insert ourselves in the care of our democracy. Here’s the game plan: * Rely upon your state’s election site for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding mail-in ballots, drop off locations and deadlines. * Throw away all unsolicited voting materials that arrive in the mail. Misinformation is coming at us from every direction. There are reports of people calling voters to direct them to the wrong polling place. Who can we rely on? Our African-American newspapers; they always have been there for us. And, of course, the NAACP Election Protection campaign.

Masked and determined, early voters cast ballots at the precinct at Anointed Temple of Praise at 3939 Riverdale Rd. on Wednesday. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises)

See Something, Say Something (See Say 2020) converts citizen reported instances of voter suppression into real time maps and alerts. For more information, visit: https://bit.ly/2SUgV93 * If you are not voting by absentee ballot, allow yourself plenty of time to vote in person on Nov. 3. Bring water, hand sanitizer and a snack. Wear a mask. Don’t wear any T-shirts that may intimidate or offend others. You can’t be a champion for a fair election if you do. By the way, the car service Lyft has announced discounts for those needing a ride to the ballot box drop-off or poll. * Should you witness or encounter vot-

er intimidation while at the polls, call the Election Protection Hotline at 866-OURVOTE (866-687-8683) for help. Keep this number handy. Share it with family and friends. Election Protection is a national, nonpartisan coalition that seeks to ensure that all voters have an equal opportunity to vote and have that vote count. The NAACP is a coalition member. * If you are threatened by someone while at the polls, dial 911. If you see someone

else being threatened, dial 911. You may be able to dial faster and more discreetly than they can. Look out for one another. Some teenagers were beating a youth underneath my front window one night. Before I could dial 911, my neighbor yelled out the window: “The police are on the way.” The beating stopped immediately. That was one smart neighbor. Let’s use our brains, not our fists. * Report suspicious activities and acts of intimidation outside polling places to the local election official immediately. Visit USA.gov to find your state or local election office’s website. You can also contact the U.S. Department of Justice voting rights section at 1-800-253-3931. Amid a year of unthinkable challenges, citizens are being called upon to mount a defense of our democracy. We are tired and many are suffering, but we must ensure this election is fair and free. Founding father Benjamin Franklin, in his final speech to the Constitutional Convention said, “…when you assemble a number of men to have the advantage of their joint wisdom, you inevitably assemble with those men, all their prejudices, their passions, their errors of opinion, their local interests, and their selfish views.” His words apply aptly to our situation today. According to historical accounts, Franklin was approached as he left the convention and asked what type of government had been formed. He replied, “A republic, if you can keep it.” Let it not be said that we were the generation that let the republic slip away. (Linda S. Wallace is a freelance journalist and communication specialist, who helps clients develop cross-cultural messages for the workplace and the media. Readers are invited to submit questions on work or personal problems related to race, ethnicity, sexual orientation or physical diﬀerences. Address your questions to culturalcoach@aol.com.)

Information • Inspiration • Elevation Published by Best Media Properties, Inc.

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The New Tri-State Defender

October 15 - 21, 2020

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RELIGION

Longtime Memphis pastor parts ways with Olivet Fellowship Baptist Church Special to The New TriState Defender Seventeen years ago, Dr. Eugene Gibson, affectionately known as “Pastor Geno” walked through the doors of Olivet Fellowship Baptist Church, The Place of the Outpouring and transformed a church reeling from a traumatic past into a powerhouse. On November 1, Pastor Geno will stand at the pulpit at The Place of the Outpouring for one last time before making his way to Columbus, Ohio with his wife, First Lady Shakitha Boone Gibson, to serve as Head Pastor of Mount Olivet Baptist Church. Gibson, a Chicago native, grew up as a preacher’s kid with a love for music. But, like many preachers’ kids, he tried to do everything that “church boys” didn’t do and had no desire to become a preacher himself. However, God had other plans for him. “God called me to ministry. Some people would say a little bit later as I was 26 when I was called, but I knew when God called me that I was going to be a pastor,” Gibson said. “I was clear. I didn’t fight the call. I knew that God was too big to fight.” After being called to ministry, Gibson earned a Bachelor of Theology from Christian Bible College, a Master of Arts in Religion/Urban Ministries from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and a Doctorate of Ministry from United Theological Seminary. The Sunday before graduating with his doctorate’s degree, he was called to his first church and the rest is history. In the middle of a search committee at Olivet Fellowship for a Senior Pastor, Deacon Lafayette Chamberlain visited Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church to hear Gibson preach. Upon hearing the sermon, Chamberlain went back to Olivet Fellowship to inform the search committee that he had found their new pastor.

On Nov. 1, Dr. Eugene Gibson will stand at the pulpit at Olivet Fellowship Baptist Church, The Place of the Outpouring for one last time before making his way to Columbus, Ohio to serve as head pastor of Mount Olivet Baptist Church. (Courtesy photo) “In March 2003, I was invited to Olivet Fellowship, and from that moment on, they tried to get me to submit and I gladly did,” he said. Taking on his new role as Senior Pastor did not come without its challenges. Olivet Fellowship was in the midst of a vehement court battle over officers and leadership, a bi-product of the split with Olivet Baptist Church, now known as The New Olivet. The case was eventually settled out of court at the beginning of his tenure. Gibson notes that though the lawsuit had been settled decades ago, the congregation still harbors a love for Olivet Baptist Church which he says presented some challenges and may have prevented maximum growth. “It is my hope that with me leaving that chapter will be closed, and they move on,” said Gibson. “We have done great work there together, but it’s time for seasons to change.” Additional challenges that Gibson has faced in his seventeen year

long journey pastoring in Memphis includes navigating loss, long-term sickness within the congregation and personally – his public divorce and remarrying and the backlash that transpired afterwards. “Sometimes, people can be unkind to pastors, especially when their private life is on public display,” Gibson explained. “But I have to say that the members of the Place of the Outpouring were so kind to me. However, there were some people that left, but we remained stable.” Gibson notes that though there have been many trials, there have been just as many triumphs. The Place of the Outpouring has produced several young doctors and pharmacists, built a school in Haiti, donated $25,000 to the Haitian Earthquake Relief Fund, $10,000 to a local food bank and $5,000 to Agape Child & Family Services. “We have done great work as far as blessing the community. All of these experiences have led to my growth

over the years. My preaching and administrative skills have matured. I’ve become more patient, and I’ve gained more experience and exposure.” Gibson will undoubtedly miss The Place of the Outpouring, but he believes that his new position is God’s move for his life. “It’s bittersweet and hard to leave, but because this is what God has ordained for my life, it’s sweeter than just bitter. I did not apply for this position; it just came to me. The church that I am going to is what Olivet Fellowship would look like if you fast forwarded it, because of the current ministry that they have. I have planted seeds for those ministries where I am now. I would dare say that it’s the hardest thing and the best thing at the same time,” said Gibson. Typically, in African American Baptist churches, candidates hold a sermon at the prospective church. The people then cast their votes, and the candidates find out whether they are successful or unsuccessful that night. However, due to COVID-19, the sermons were held via Zoom and

the final decision didn’t come until a week later. “During that week, I was losing my mind. In my head, I was thinking everyone would say ‘no.’ It was insanely stressful. When they called me, I was like ‘wow, this is happening,” but I remained cool until I hugged my wife. Then, I cried like a child. God is never late. You can experience things, and you feel as if God has forgotten about you. Pastors feel that too,” Gibson said. Gibson looks forward to starting over, fixing mistakes that he’s made along the way, bringing a newness and freshness to Mount Olivet’s aging population, and building meaningful relationships. In a final message to his congregation and to the Memphis community, Gibson said in a statement, “I speak life to you. I pray that no bad thing comes nigh thee. That we will continue you to do God’s will even in different places until we meet again on this side of the Jordan or the other. Until we meet again. Amen and Ashe’.”

Shining servants... The Rev. Dr. J.C. Bachus, pastor emeritus of St. Mark Baptist Church, and his wife, John Ella Bachus, were saluted for 54 years of service last Sunday (Oct. 11). The celebration featured the dedication of the John Ella Bachus Library. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

Celebrating the labor of... The Rev. Basil Brooks was the guest speaker as Greater New Bethel M.B.C., 316 George Rd., celebrated the 27th Pastor and Wife’s Anniversary of Pastor Vernon Horner and ﬁrst lady Barbara Horner. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

The New Tri-State Defender, October 15 - 21, 2020, Page 6

University of Memphis professors Dr. Andre Johnson and Dr. Amanda Edgar. (Courtesy photo) Keisha Lance Bottoms (left), Sherrilyn Iﬁll and Regina King cover Glamour’s 2020 Women of the Year issues. (Image: Ari Skin, Rog & Bee Walker, Emman Montalvan)

Glamour’s 2020 Women of the Year

List includes Regina King, Keisha Lance Bottoms and Sherrilyn Iﬁll by Maiysha Kaid The Root

A mayor, a legal titan and Hollywood royalty – Atlanta mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, NAACP Legal Defense Fund president and director-counsel Sherrilyn Ifill, and Oscar, Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actress Regina King – are just three of the incredible women named Glamour magazine’s 2020 Women of the Year, each honored with her own digital cover. Inside the issue, each woman’s story is penned by fellow luminaries like bestselling author Tayari Jones (Bottoms), Melissa Harris-Perry (Ifill), and Soraya Nadia McDonald, who acknowledges the conﬂicted feelings of the moment in her feature on King: “Somehow, amid the relentless existential punishment of 2020, King is having one of the best years of a multi-decade career in a business that can be notoriously unfriendly to Black women,” the 2020 Pulitizer finalist writes. It has indeed been a year of holding multiple, often contradictory truths; for instance, it’s a landmark year for Glamour’s annual honors – the 30th – taking place as a pandemic, racial uprising and a crucial election have converged to inform not only our national conversations but our most intimate understandings of freedom, death and justice. In addition to the three aforementioned honorees, this year, Glamour honors

“Every Single One of You” (Image: Johanna Goodman for Glamour) 90-year-old activist and lifetime achievement honoree Dolores Huerta and essential workers Navdeep Kaur, Jasmin Moshirpur, MD, Veronica Henry, and Meida Sanchez, the “guardians” of COVID-19 hotspot Elmhurst Hospital. And, in a nod to the resilience we have collectively shown during this devastating year, a special illustrated cover features women both well-known and anonymous, honoring “Every Single One of You” – including the recently departed Ruth Bader Ginsberg and tragically murdered Breonna Taylor, who garners a special tribute penned by poet Camonghne Felix. Says Glamour Editor-in-Chief Saman-

tha Barry: “For three decades, Glamour has recognized the most inﬂuential and accomplished women on the planet. Our Women of the Year awards celebrate trailblazers and power brokers and Nobel Peace Prize winners. The 2020 class of honorees is no exception: frontline hospital workers, a civil rights lawyer, a headstrong politician, a labor rights icon, and a superstar actress bringing untold stories to the screen. “But among all that star power, it was also important to us this year to shine a light on our remarkable audience. To live through this moment is to demonstrate Herculean resolve, resilience, and power. We all deserve an award for getting through it, tears, breakdowns, and all. And so this year belongs to each and every one of you—our women of the year.” Those who want to celebrate this year’s honorees and 30 years of Women of the Year won’t have to wait long; a digital film special presented by L’Oréal Paris will air on Monday, October 19 at 7 p.m. on YouTube and Twitter. According to a press release, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, John Legend, Gabrielle Union, Nancy Pelosi, Cory Booker, Maxine Waters and more will appear in prefilmed segments lauding the honorees. (Maiysha Kai is managing editor of The Glow Up, co-host of The Root Presents: It’s Lit! podcast, and your average Grammy-nominated goddess next door...May I borrow some sugar?)

Postal service debuts new Kwanzaa stamp TSD Newsroom The U.S. Postal Service dedicated a new Kwanzaa stamp on Tuesday, sharing the Forever stamp with hashtag #KwanzaaStamps. “This new Kwanzaa stamp captures the essence of the African American cultural celebration. The stamp depicts the profile of a reﬂective woman with a kinara, or candleholder, with seven lit candles in front of her,” said USPS Regional Processing Operations Eastern Vice President Dane Coleman, the dedicating official. “The stamp, which was hand-sketched and digitally colored, evokes a sense of inner peace with its cool tones and vibrant design elements to give a festive feel to the celebration of Kwanzaa.” The stamp was made available nationwide on Tuesday, with a virtual dedication ceremony posted on the Postal Service’s Facebook and Twitter pages. The event included remarks from Coleman and Linda Hazel Humes, adjunct assistant professor, Africana Studies Department,

John Jay College; and music by Sanga of the Valley. Kwanzaa takes place over seven days annually from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1, bringing family, community and culture together for many. Each year, millions of African Americans gather with friends and family throughout Kwanzaa week to honor the Pan-African holiday’s seven founding principles – unity (umoja), self-determination (kujichagulia), collective work and responsibility (ujima), cooperative economics (ujamaa), purpose (nia), creativity (kuumba) and faith (imani). Each day of Kwanzaa is dedicated to one of these seven principles, collectively known as the Nguzo Saba. Kwanzaa was created in 1966, drawing on a variety of African traditions, deriving its name from the Swahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza,” meaning “first fruits.” Art director Antonio Alcala designed the stamp, and Andrea Pippins was the illustrator. The Kwanzaa stamp is being issued as a Forever stamp in a pane of 20. Forever stamps will

always be equal in value to the current FirstClass Mail 1-ounce price. A pictorial postmark of the first-day-of-issue location, Nashville, TN, is available at usps. com/stamps.

UofM professors probe ‘Black Lives Matter’ and ‘All Lives Matter’ by Paula Anderson

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Black Lives Matter has been on the minds of Americans since the death of Trevyon Martin in 2012 and more recently the death of George Floyd captured on video in May. BLM originated in 2015 with the hashtag #blacklivesmatter and now a new conversation has ignited about race, equity and social justice through a book. University of Memphis professors, Drs. Andre Johnson and Amanda Edgar, co-authored, “The Struggle Over Black Lives Matter and All Lives Matter.” The book documents prior movements and conversations that describe the injustices and inequalities against black people, Dr. Johnson said. Dr. Edgar added, “We wanted to understand the conversations on social media in 2015 with the hashtags #blacklivesmatter and #alllivesmatter to find out the true intentions of conversation.” Dr. Edgar said 16 focus groups were conducted and 46 people in Memphis were interviewed. As a pastor, activist and theologian, Dr. Johnson uses this scripture verse in Genesis 1:26-27 (Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals,[a]and over all the creatures that move along the ground. So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.) to educate his congregation about the meaning of BLM and to explain the significance of black life. “It was important to define the meaning of Black Lives Matter at the beginning of the book because The Blacks Lives Matter Movement is tied to the Civil Rights Movement,” said Dr. Johnson. “Black Lives is an affirmation of the gospel in reclaiming a black body in America,” Dr. Johnson. Dr. Edgar and Dr. Johnson collaborated to provide a social movement framework through the messaging in the book. A social movement is directed to the people who are in power and they can sometimes bring about change, Dr. Edgar said. The book seeks to explain the parallelism of the Civil Rights Movement with the Black Lives Matter movement. People who speak out against BLM, but may not be as vocal around their peers because speaking out means that you are speaking in favor of BLM. “One of the contrasts in the book is the notion of All Lives Matter v. Black Lives Matter and how individuals can be criticized for the support of BLM,” said Dr. Edgar. Since the release of the book, it has received an award from the National Communication Association. Although BLM is a present-day movement, it is not a new movement. We are still addressing the same issues as before like healthcare, jobs, economic justice and green justice, said Dr. Johnson. (To purchase the book, visit Amazon.com. Paula Anderson is a journalist. She can be reached at writingbydesign7@gmail.com.)

STATE & LOCAL The New Tri-State Defender, October 15 - 21, 2020, Page 7

Commission turns back reform-focused measures

by James Coleman

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Efforts to reform the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department took a step back Monday after resolutions aimed at curbing excessive force failed to gain enough support during a Shelby County Commission meeting on Monday (Oct. 12). The proposed reforms followed waves of protests – locally and nationally – arising from the killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and others by law enforcement officers. Ordinance 15 would have disqualified applicants from public safety positions if they had been previously terminated for excessive force. The officer or deputy also would lose their Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certification if they had been fired or disciplined for excessive force. The resolution also called for the establishment of a tracking system for those officers. It failed by a vote of 5-5. “I am asking about passing something of substance,” said Commissioner Tami Sawyer, who cosponsored the resolutions. “This is not about punishing anyone, it is about ensuring that one we improve the relationship between the police, between the Sheriff’s Department, between the corrections department. Or else, we are going to have summers where this city and this county continue to burn.” Much of the discussion centered on the differences between current policy and the pro-

posed expansion. “It is not going to have a direct impact, we are already doing it, is what I am saying,” said Sheriff Floyd Bonner Jr., when asked if the proposed changes would hinder his department. Under current policy, if a complaint is made against a safety officer, it is sent to the POST board for review. During this time, the officer is allowed to mount a defense. “If an officer is found guilty of excessive force it goes from an oral reprimand to a termination on the very first offense,” said Bonner. “When we terminate an officer, that officer would not be hired by the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department. As a matter of fact, that officer would not be hired even in the state of Tennessee.” Bonner also mentioned the National Decertification Index that collects data on out-ofstate officers who were terminated. Other layers of oversight within the department for the use of force, including allegations of excessive force, were also highlighted. Chief Inspector Anthony Buckner, director of Training for the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department, added, “We have robust policies and procedures, standard operating procedures that address these particular issues from the very beginning when use of force is used. Whether it is excessive or not, it goes through an aggressive review process starting with the frontline supervisors – the sergeants, the lieutenants, the captains. “If any of those individuals believe the use

One and counting... Canary Westbrook turned one year old on Oct. 9. Her parents, Regina Benson and Cortez Westbook, treated their daughter to a backyard celebration in Frayser. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

of force is outside of our policies, we also have an internal affairs division that can conduct a more extensive investigation.” Earlier steps the County Commission had taken to recognize the problem of excessive force and how they fall short of addressing the issue were discussed. “One of the things that I would like to note is that we have taken some nominal efforts. Just this year, we named Juneteenth as a holiday. We recognized racism as a pandemic,” said Sawyer. “We also adopted the Eight Can’t Wait set of recommendations for policing. Nominal. Most of those are the ribbon on gift wrap. Now I am asking us to pass what is inside the box.” The Eight Can’t Wait recommendations call for the banning of chokeholds and strangulations and shooting from vehicles. It also requires officers to exhaust all alternatives before using deadly force. It imposes a duty to intervene and establishes a force continuum. It also requires comprehensive reporting. Critics argue that many police forces around the country already have many of these policies in place. It also does little to address allegations of institutional racism. The commission also shot down a resolution on a 6-6 vote that would have limited the purchase or procurement of decommissioned military equipment. The proposal also would have put in place clear rules to limit their use by county law enforcement agencies. It will be brought up for a fourth reading during the next committee meeting.

A virtual lesson... Christopher Burnett, a seventh-grader at Colonial Middle School, studies in virtual-learning mode. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

Gov. Lee, first lady quarantined after exposure by Kimberlee Kruesi The Associated Press

NASHVILLE – Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee announced Wednesday that he is in quarantine after a member of his security detail tested positive for the coronavirus. The governor’s office released a statement saying the Republican had tested negative but he would be in quarantine as a precaution with first lady Maria Lee. The first lady tweeted Wednesday afternoon that she also tested negative and said she and the governor both feel well. “Today, a member of the governor’s executive security detail has tested positive for COVID-19,” the statement read. “Gov. Lee is feeling well and has tested negative for COVID-19 but out of an abundance of caution, he is quarantining at home with the first lady until further notice.” No other information about the security staffer’s exposure was immediately available. Earlier Wednesday, Maria Lee had posted to social media that she was visiting a middle Tennessee elementary school with Education Commissioner Penny Schwinn. The two were photographed wearing masks while interacting with children. The governor, meanwhile, had attended a fundraiser the night before. It was unknown whether Schwinn and the school officials would be tested. Along with announcing he’s in quarantine, Lee canceled Wednesday’s in-person COVID-19 media briefing and instead held a telephone conference call, where he fielded a handful of questions. According to the governor, his last interaction with the security staffer was Tuesday. The staffer decided to get a test Wednesday after displaying symptoms. “Maria and I are feeling fine. ... We are not sick and we hope we don’t become that way, but we’ll certainly keep you posted along the way,” Lee told reporters, adding that he expects to remain in quarantine for the next two weeks and will continue to receive COVID-19 tests. Lee has long encouraged the public to wear masks and maintain their social distance to protect themselves from the virus. However, he has also resisted calls to implement a statewide mask mandate. Most recently, he lifted all virus-related limits on businesses and social gatherings for most of the state even though cases of COVID-19 in the state have been persistently high. According to researchers from Johns Hopkins, Tennessee has seen more than 2,700 COVID-19 related deaths as of Wednesday. That death count is the 21st highest in the country overall and the 28th highest per capita. Over the past two weeks, the rolling average number of daily new cases has increased by nearly 570, an increase of roughly 42%. The state is currently 12th in the country for new cases per capita. In other virus news, Shelby County health officials said Halloween events that encourage gatherings of large numbers of people are not allowed — even if they are held outside. Festivals, parades and haunted houses also are not permitted, and door-todoor trick-or-treating is not recommended. “It can be very difficult to maintain proper social distancing on porches and at front doors and because sharing food is risky,” the Shelby County Health Department said in a news release. Recommended activities include online parties and “drive-by” events in which people stay in their cars.

Federal judge rules Tennessee abortion law unconstitutional

by Travis Loller The Associated Press

NASHVILLE – A federal judge on Wednesday ruled that Tennessee’s 48-hour waiting period law for abortions is unconstitutional because it serves no legitimate purpose while placing a substantial burden on women who seek abortions in Tennessee. Tennessee’s 2015 law requires women to make two trips to an abortion clinic, first for mandatory counseling and then for the abortion at least 48 hours later. In his ruling, U.S. District Judge Bernard Freidman found that the state could not show that the law furthers its purported goals. “Women’s mental and emotional health is not benefited because the mandatory waiting period does nothing to increase the decisional certainty among women contemplating having an abortion,” Friedman wrote. “Further, the evidence demonstrates that at least 95% of women are certain of their decisions, post-abortion regret is un-

common, and abortion does not increase women’s risk of negative mental health outcomes.” Friedman, an appointee of President Ronald Reagan, found the testimony of the state’s main witness to be “not credible and not worthy of serious consideration.” Priscilla Coleman, a psychology professor at Bowling Green State University in Ohio, testified at trial that abortion is associated with mental health problems and said she believes most of the scientific literature on abortion is politically biased in favor of abortions. Directors of Tennessee abortion clinics testified at trial that the wait period causes women financial hardship and stress. They also said the two-visit requirement poses logistical challenges for patients and clinics that cause abortions to be delayed far beyond the 48 hours required by law, pushing some women into surgical abortions, which have greater risks of complications. A few women are pushed beyond the time when they can receive an abortion altogether. Friedman found that the evidence supported those claims because second trimester abortions

had increased since the law went into effect and safer medication abortions had decreased. In addition, Friedman said the mandatory waiting period is “gratuitously demeaning” by treating women as incapable of making rational decisions. “Defendants’ suggestion that women are overly emotional and must be required to cool off or calm down before having a medical procedure they have decided they want to have, and that they are constitutionally entitled to have, is highly insulting and paternalistic – and all the more so given that no such waiting periods apply to men,” he wrote. However, Friedman declined to rule on the plaintiffs’ equal protection claim, having already found the law unconstitutional because of the undue burden it places on women. Friedman references the U.S. Supreme Court’s 1992 Planned Parenthood v. Casey decision in favor of a 24-hour waiting period in Pennsylvania, noting that at the time there was little in the court record to show how much the waiting period burdened women. He contrasts that to the Tennessee case.

“Plaintiffs in the present case have proven with overwhelming evidence that the 48-hour waiting period (in addition to serving no legitimate purpose) severely burdens the majority of women seeking an abortion,” Friedman wrote. “It significantly delays this time-sensitive medical procedure, and also makes it so time-consuming, costly, and inconvenient to obtain that the predominantly low-income population seeking the service must struggle to access it, if they can access it at all.” And Friedman noted another key difference: Pennsylvania had 81 abortion providers at the time of the Casey decision, 10 times more than Tennessee today. The Tennessee law contained a provision that if the 48-hour waiting period were found unconstitutional, it would convert to a 24-hour waiting period. Friedman blocked that possibility by prohibiting Tennessee from enforcing either one. The Wednesday ruling came more than a year after a four-day trial on the law and amid the confirmation hearings for Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett, who critics worry could help to weaken or even overturn U.S. abortion rights.

The New Tri-State Defender

October 15 - 21, 2020

Page 8

CLASSIFIEDS NOTICE TO BIDDER(S) Sealed bids will be received by the Shelby County Government in the Department of Housing, 1075 Mullins Station Road, Memphis, Tennessee 38134 until 9:30 a.m. on October 29, 2020, as shown below: MULTIPLE AND ENTIRELY DIFFERENT REHABILITATION JOBS ARE CONTAINED IN THIS BID NOTICE. BIDDER(S) MAY ELECT TO BID ON ANY OR ALL OF THE JOBS IN THE NOTICE. SEALED BID I000641 DUE: October 29, 2020 1. Rehabilitation of Owner-Occupied Housing Units throughout Shelby County some of which may require the use of lead based paint safe work practices and techniques; and Detailed specifications for items above may be obtained in the Shelby County Department of Housing at the aforementioned address beginning October 15, 2020. All bids will be opened and publicly read by the Shelby County Government at the time mentioned above at the Department of Housing, 1075 Mullins Station Road Memphis, TN 38134, (901) 222-7600; TTY Number (901) 222-2301; or for information in Spanish 901-222-3993. Award recommendations will be posted at the following website http:// www.shelbycountytn.gov/3453/ Contract-Opportunities upon review of the bid opening results. As a condition precedent to bidding, each bidder must apply and qualify for a Vendor Number and Equal Opportunity Compliance Eligibility Number prior to the submitting your response. Your EOC number must be displayed on the outside of your envelope for each bid submission. Reminder: Effective January 2020, in order for your bids to be accepted on projects, contractors must have met with the Housing Site Inspector and received a receipt for the current Shelby County Housing Construction and Rehabilitation Specifications Manual. Interested contractors not currently on the contractor list should contact the Department of Housing in order to schedule a meeting with the Housing Site Inspector. If you are currently on the contractor list but have not received a receipt for the current Construction and Rehabilitation Specifications Manual, your next opportunity to do so will be in January 2021. NOTE: Selected contractors will be required to check the

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:

SAM system to ensure that any subcontractors it selects do not appear on the debarred/ suspended registry. The label, which is attached to the specifications shall be completely filled out and attached to the bid submission envelope. You must display your current E.O.C. Eligibility Number or your Locally Owned Small Business (LOSB) Number on the outside of your envelope and a copy of all licenses and insurance policies must be included in your submitted bid package. Unless the label is completely filled out and your current E.O.C. Eligibility Number is noted thereon your bid may be returned to you unopened. Should your label be lost or misplaced, please note the appropriate information in the lower lefthand corner of your envelope. The Department of Housing encourages participation from WBE, MBE, LOSB, and Section 3 Contractors under these rehabilitation programs. The Shelby County Government reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive any informalities therein. By order of LEE HARRIS, MAYOR SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Scott Walkup, Administrator

NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT

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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: Malcolm Holliday Tax Parcel #: 0820500000210 Tax Sale #: 1602 Price Oﬀered: $6000.00 Terms: Cash

Price Offered: $900.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 9:30 a.m. on November 19, 2020, 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: Trey Ford Tax Parcel #: 07505800000110 Tax Sale #: 1503 Price Offered: $600.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 10:00 a.m. on November 26, 2020, 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

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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: Oscar Tyler Tax Parcel #: 01305200000620 Tax Sale #: 1602 Price Offered: $4500.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 9:30 a.m. on November 25, 2020, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest

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Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 9:30 a.m. on November 19, 2020, 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

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The New Tri-State Defender

CLASSIFIEDS 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: Marcolm Watson, Jr Tax Parcel #: 04801100000430 Tax Sale #: 1603 Price Offered: $4000.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 10:00 a.m. on November 30, 2020, 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: Quayisa Henderson Tax Parcel #: 02604700000130 Tax Sale #: 0703 Price Offered: $100.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 1:00 p.m. on November 25, 2020, 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: Quayisa Henderson Tax Parcel #: 04800100000020 Tax Sale #: 1602 Price Offered: $8000.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 1:30 p.m. on November 25, 2020, 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: Person Properties, LLC Tax Parcel #: D0135000000830 Tax Sale #: 1603 Price Offered: $800.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 9:30 a.m. on December 1, 2020, 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: Person Properties, LLC Tax Parcel #: 05902700000140 Tax Sale #: 1603 Price Offered: $500.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend

Page 9

NEWS

a Public “Bid Off” at 9:00 a.m. on December 1, 2020, 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: Mazo Company, LLC Tax Parcel #: 02507200000110 Tax Sale #: 1602 Price Offered: $3000.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 9:30 a.m. on November 17, 2020, 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: Mazo Company, LLC Tax Parcel #: 03402900000160 Tax Sale #: 1602 Price Offered: $660.00 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 1:00 p.m. on November 17, 2020, 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

Leroy McClain and Mary McClain had been waiting about 2.5 hours to vote when they talked about the experience with The New Tri-State Defender. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises)

VOTE

CONTINUED FROM FRONT Among some of the busiest locations were ATOP, the Agricenter International in east Shelby County, Riverside Baptist Church in Whitehaven, Glenview Community Center in South Memphis, Mississippi Blvd. Christian Church in Midtown and the Dave Wells Community Center in North Memphis. “I wanted to come out and vote on the first day. It’s important, and I wanted to avoid the long lines on Nov. 3,” said Vernita Barefield, who voted at Riverside Baptist Church. “For me, a mail-in ballot was never an option. I always cast my vote at the polls.” The wait notwithstanding, people were clearly determined to vote. Many came prepared with folding chairs, bottles of water and umbrellas to shade them from the sun. “There really was a marked difference in attitude,” said Linda Phillips, administrator of Elections for the Shelby County Election Commission. “Today was actually an unprecedented turnout for early voting. It was extremely satisfying to see Shelby Countians taking advantage of early vot-

Barbara Hampton ing the very first day.” Phillips, who joined the Election Commission in the summer of 2016, said normally the first and last days of early voting are the busiest. She hopes the first-day turnout during a “new normal” will signal an overall high-voter turnout. “We absolutely love seeing so many of our citizens get out to vote,” Phillips said. “It’s literally what we live for.” Voters on the whole wore masks and practiced social distancing while waiting. “There have been no problems with voters wearing masks,” Thompson said. “So far, we have received no complaints from people not wanting to wear their masks.”

As of noon Wednesday, a total of 7,697 people had voted. By 2 p.m., 12,677 people had cast their votes, compared to 2016 when 14,380 voted the entire day. For Wayne Williams, his decision to vote at Riverside Baptist Church on Wednesday had much to do with his granddaughter. “I’m out here today on this very first day because my granddaughter asked me a question for a school paper. She said, ‘How is today different than the 1960s?’ “I told her everyone has the right to vote and their vote is protected by law. I have traveled. We are free to go where we want to go. When I was growing up, the only places I knew were Magnolia, Castalia and Orange Mound.” Early voting for the Nov. 3 Election runs through Oct. 29. For a complete listing of locations and hours of operation, visit: www.shelbyvote.com. “I had to vote today, and it has been such a beautiful day,” said Claudette Boyd who also voted at Riverside Baptist Church. “This is our right to vote. I wanted to come to the polls and stand in line – make the sacrifice. We must fight the battle for our children and grandchildren.”

The New Tri-State Defender

October 15 - 21, 2020

Page 10

SPORTS

Tigers face UCF – and troubling history – as the season resumes by Terry Davis

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

It is almost weird to think that the University of Memphis football team will play its third game on the season Saturday (Oct. 17) against the University of Central Florida at 2:30 on ABC. This is a pivotal game for both teams. For the first time in recent history both teams entered the game after a loss. Memphis and UCF were among the favorites to win the American Athletic Conference championship this season. However, the COVID-19 pandemic caused havoc in college football, delaying the start of conferences’ seasons and the postponement of games when players and coaches test positive for the virus, which has killed some 219,000 people nationwide. The Tigers have had to reschedule games because of the virus. Memphis is the current AAC champion and the Knights won the championship the previous year. This rivalry is marked on the Tigers schedule every sea-

son. The Knights are the only team in the conference that Memphis has not defeated in football. Yes, the Knights have given the Tigers many heartbreaks over the last several years. For two consecutive seasons, Memphis had to go to Orlando to play the Knights in the AAC Championship game. Memphis lost both those games. Two years ago, the Tigers had the Knights on the ropes at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium, but Memphis was not able to secure the win at the end of the game. Memphis enters the game with a 1-1 record and looking for its first conference win of the season. The Knights are 2-1 and are 1-1 in conference play. This game is critical for both teams. A win will likely vault the winner back into the national rankings. Tigers’ Quarterback Brady White and the Memphis offense will look to get back on track after the roller coaster start to the season. Memphis has one of the most prolific offenses in the nation but, because of the virus, has had difficulty finding

Undefeated Titans survive COVID delay with best win yet by Teresa M. Walker The Associated Press

Looking to get back to winning ways after last week’s loss to SMU, Memphis hosts the University of Central Florida at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium on Saturday. (Photo: gotigersgo.com) an offensive rhythm. The Tigers are scheduled to play the next eight weeks barring any unforeseen circumstances. Although Memphis is the home team, many on the team are entering the UCF game as if the Tigers are the underdog. Head Coach Ryan Silverfield knows the Tigers have to account for the speed of the Knights. “They are very fast on offense and they are going to try to get 100 plays. They have playmakers. The quarterback is dynamic and one of the best in the country,” said Silverfield. Kylan Watkins, a Whitehaven High School product,

will be playing in his first game against the Knights. He has been a versatile player, catching and running out of the backfield this season. “We are playing on ABC again and we are going to have more people in the stands, and we are playing UCF,” said Watkins. “We are trying to prepare and live in the moment, because this is not something everyone will get to do.” Things will be much different for the second home game of the season. In the first home game, only 4,000 fans were allowed to attend because of COVID. Up to 12,000 will be admitted for the game against the Knights.

NASHVILLE – The Tennessee Titans keep proving adversity simply makes them tighter and stronger with a toughness that helps them win. After a 16-day layoff dealing with the NFL’s first COVID-19 outbreak, the Titans (4-0) sit atop the AFC South and are tied with Pittsburgh on top of the AFC as one of the NFL’s four remaining undefeated teams. “We went through a lot these last two weeks, you know, dealing with this virus,” Titans cornerback Malcolm Butler said. “I just think it made us closer. It made us play for each other and go out there and play hard for each other and just get the win, man. It’s all about winning.” The Titans were limited to one light practice that was more of a walk-through, with coaches filling in as defensive backs, and two walk-throughs since beating Minnesota on Sept. 27. They handed Buffalo its first loss this season 42-16, the easiest victory yet after Tennessee’s first three wins by a combined six points. Quarterback Ryan Tannehill says the Titans are a little ticked off at how they’ve been looked at over the past couple weeks, and stuck together. They know they have plenty to clean up. “We just need to continue pushing the envelope and getting better,” Tannehill said. What’s working The Titans showed last sea-

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son they could put up points in bunches and haven’t stopped. They now have scored at least 31 points in three straight games and are averaging 30.5 points per game this season, which ranks sixth in the NFL. They’ve scored 122 points through four games, the most ever by this franchise, topping the 121 points by the 1989 Oilers. Their scoring is boosted by their execution inside an opponent’s 20-yard line. Tennessee ranks second in the NFL scoring touchdowns on 82.3% of its trips. They scored a touchdown on all six trips inside the red zone, didn’t have a turnover and also didn’t allow a sack. The Titans became the first NFL team to have that combination, with a minimum of six such drives, since Week 11 of 2007 when the Patriots beat the Bills 56-10. What needs help The defense. The Titans have been without starting cornerback Adoree Jackson from the start of the season, and he remains on injured reserve. Luckily, they got lineman DaQuan Jones back against Buffalo. But this unit ranks 29th in yards allowed, 27th against the run and last in the NFL on third down. Their saving grace? Tennessee is ninth in points allowed, giving up 22.5 per game. (Follow Teresa M. Walker at https://twitter.com/TeresaMWalker.)