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VOL. 72, No. 44
November 2 - 8, 2023
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COGIC goes back-toback in Memphis with its 115th Holy Convocation by Deidre Malone
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
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HE Church of God in Christ, Inc. (COGIC) returns to the welcoming arms of its mother city this year for its 115th Holy Convocation, and the denomination’s presiding bishop said Memphis will be blessed because the “Saints” will be in town. The convocation begins Tuesday (Nov. 7) and continues through Nov. 14. This year’s theme is taken from Zechariah 4:5 – “Our Mission Made Possible.” The Holy Convocation will begin at the newly renovated Mason Temple, the domination’s headquarters located just south of Downtown. The facility’s updated broadcast technology will allow COGIC to broadcast its services from Mason Temple. The Renasant Convention Center and the FedEx Forum will also host meetings during the convocation. Presiding Bishop J. Drew Sheard noted that the convocation will include “great speakers, the best singing and anointed profound preaching, and that
prayers will be answered in a sincere way.” Bishop Sheard and Memphis-based Bishop Brandon Porter, a Presidium Board member, were a part of the team that negotiated the convocation’s return to Memphis last year. As a former chairman of COGIC’s Auxiliaries in Ministry (AIM) Convention, Bishop Sheard had experience negotiating terms with cities around conventions. AIM is COGIC’s annual summer convention, which is geared toward spiritual enrichment, training, education, and fellowship. He considered Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland and his team major partners in helping to return the convocation to Memphis. “Mayor Jim Strickland was a champion. He worked with us to bring the convocation back to Memphis,” said Bishop Sheard. “He is my friend. I know he is an outgoing mayor, but he and Ken Moody who was on his team worked with us and I appreciate their partnership. “COGIC looks forward to working with mayor-elect Paul Young (who takes office Jan. 1). I’m excited to work with him. He’s a dear friend as well,” Sheard said. The Saints began holding their convocation in
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COGIC Presiding Bishop Sheard writes an inspirational devotional
Beale Street legend honored... The late Nat D. Williams – legendary radio personality, Beale Street icon and esteemed educator – was honored with an honorary street naming Oct. 27. Nat D. Williams Boulevard is on Mississippi Boulevard, between Georgia, near Booker T. Washington High School where Williams taught history for 43 years, and E. H. Crump Boulevard. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender)
Commission delivers its final word on proposed Land Bank change
by Deidre Malone
by James Coleman
I
A resolution requesting a review of minimum hourly rates paid by companies that take advantage of EDGE Board tax abates and incentives Monday (Oct. 30) failed to sway a majority of Shelby County commissioners on its first reading. The item also asks the Economic Development Growth Engine (EDGE) to conduct an annual report. The agency is required to submit a report every three years. The request comes as concern is growing that employee compensation is lagging inflation, and their employer’s tax relief-laden profits. Although unwritten, the goal is to make sure companies receiving incentives are paying a livable wage. After failing 5-1, the resolution likely is heading back to the commission’s Economic & Tourism Committee for further discussion. During a recent committee session, EDGE’s Vice President of Operations Joann Massey was on hand to
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
MAGINE being a pastor, an entrepreneur, an author, and leader of the largest African-American Pentecostal denomination in the world. The Church of God in Christ (COGIC) Presiding Bishop J. Drew Sheard thrives on managing all those roles because of his faith, but also because of the support of his family. As COGIC prepares for its 115th Holy Convocation in Memphis, which begins Friday (Nov. 7), Bishop Sheard has released his new book – “Say It. Tell It. Live It.: An Inspiring and Uplifting 52 Week Devotional.” The bishop said the devotional was created because of his experience during the pandemic. The weekly devotional not only serves as a reminder of God’s Word, but as a powerful tool for resolving life’s challenges in a way that aligns with His divine plan. In the devotional, Bishop Sheard offers wise, comforting, and inspiring spiritual companionship, providing encouraging messages, biblical inspiration, and uplifting stories to remind Christians that
life is a journey, not a destination. Within each reflection, Bishop Sheard shares nuggets of wisdom that lead believers down an introspective path, including: To rehearse daily obedience to God. Avoid being caught up in a fleeting moment. Live life lovingly and unselfishly. Treasure their destiny in the Kingdom of God. And remember that salvation is the gift of God. Bishop Sheard shared how the COVID-19 the restrictions and fear caused by the COVID-19 pandemic was so depressing and painful. He wanted to write this devotional to help people get through tough moments and to increase their faith in God.
SEE BISHOP ON PAGE 2
answer questions. “I had a follow up conversation with Joann Massey about some of the requests that we had,” said commissioner Michael Whaley. The aside included talk of an overview of peer communities’ management of tax abatements for PILOTs (payments in lieu of taxes) to provide context to the commission’s efforts. The discussion also included other incentive programs besides EDGE. “So, not just EDGE, but some that are housed within DMC (Downtown Memphis Commission) and others. I think that would be helpful for historical context,” said Whaley. A third element seeks to identify what procedural moves should be taken to make any changes to EDGE, or any entity that can provide tax relief to businesses. “That’s an additional component that I’ve asked them to prepare,” said Whaley. Created in 2011, through a joint
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The New Tri-State Defender
115TH
CONTINUED FROM FRONT St. Louis in 2010 after decades of returning to Memphis every November. The venue change resulted from members wanting a larger venue that could hold more saints in one place. The denomination also was seeking a location that could provide more centrally located affordable hotel rooms near the main convocation facility. Focusing on the future, keeping the Holy Convocation in Memphis is an option that depends on strengthening relationships with the hotel industry. Bishop Sheard is committed to working on those business owners. COGIC is known for its signature events during the Holy Convocation. Bishop Porter is the coordinator for Christmas in November and the Health Fair that benefit mid-southerners from during the convocation. “Bishop Porter does an out-
BISHOP
CONTINUED FROM FRONT “I lost my mother and father during the pandemic, and it was very painful. I know what I was dealing with and wanted to create something to help others,” Bishop Sheard said. He continued, “My wife and I counseled couples who had to be together all day during the pandemic, and it was tough. We ministered to them that they can make it through this. “Right now, we are still dealing with COVID-19 and other issues during this season. People need something on a daily basis that reinforces that they are going to make it, that they are going to win. That’s one of the reasons I wanted to write this book.” Other key highlights of “Say It. Tell It. Live It.,” include: Fifty-two weeks of devotionals to inspire and uplift. Thought-provoking reflections and personal anecdotes from Bishop Sheard. The book is based on sermons delivered by Bishop Sheard. Some of the passages in the
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CONTINUED FROM FRONT resolution with the Memphis City Council, the Shelby County Economic Development Growth Engine (EDGE) provides incentives to drive economic development. These include tax breaks to draw in businesses to the area. If the resolution passes the commission, it faces another hurdle with the Memphis City Council. (The EDGE-wage issue, previously, has failed to gain traction in either body.) After that, the respective mayors will have to agree, along with the EDGE board. State law will also have to be examined before any change takes place. Voting in favor of the resolution, sponsored by Commissioner Britney Thornton, were commissioners Charlie Caswell, Thornton, Mickell Lowery, Chairwoman Miska Clay-Bibbs, and Whaley. Henri Brooks voted no. Another commission item destined for further committee appraisal is the funding of a full-time position to lead the future Citizens Law Enforcement Review Committee. Commissioners are seeking $110,000 for the administrator post. The amended resolution was scaled down from an earlier $300,000 request. Owing to budget concerns, it seeks a
standing job of coordinating Christmas in November, and we want to have a major impact on the community,” said Bishop Sheard. “Community outreach is critical to the success of these events.” Christmas in November is set for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday (Nov. 4) at Greater Community Temple COGIC, 5151 Winchester Road. Thousands of families will receive free furniture, new clothing, new appliances, toys, food and other items. Free COVID shots will also be available. Bishops Ron Hill of Compton, CA and Ron Jackson of Oakland, CA are leading the outreach effort. They are collaborating with local area bishops such as Bishops Jerry Taylor, Bill Wright, David Hall, and Linwood Dillard. Sheard said, “They have been very cooperative, and we want to have an impact on the local community.” With the convocation on the horizon, Presiding Bishop Sheard shared the story of
November 2 - 8, 2023
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NEWS
a young J. Drew Sheard, who saw the then-Presiding Bishop J.O. Patterson getting out of his car at the old Chisca Hotel (which was once owned by COGIC and served as its headquarters). The young Sheard had to maneuver through Patterson’s security to speak to him. And when Bishop Patterson acknowledged that he knew who young J. Drew Sheard was, it meant the world to the young man, who later became the presiding bishop. “In my short tenure as presiding bishop, I have met young boys who have told me that they want to be presiding bishop,” Sheard. “Their parents tell me the impact we are having on these kids. You can’t buy that satisfaction.” Bishop Sheard also wants to leave a legacy that reflects his sincerity about his faith and belief in God. “I want it to be noted that I was super sincere about God. I want to heighten members relationship with God, spirituality.”
“Right now, we are still dealing with COVID-19 and other issues during this season. People need something on a daily basis that reinforces that they are going to make it, that they are going to win. That’s one of the reasons I wanted to write this book.” — Bishop J. Drew Sheard book include A Good Name, Drop It and Run, Moments of Weakness, the Spirit of Renewal and Will Somebody Please Pass the Salt? “Salt and sugar are different, but they look alike,” said Bishop Sheard. “Salt is an agitator. We don’t want to be so sweet that we are not challenging. We want to agitate to a point where we will do better which is good for improvement.” The book already has received high praise from respected religious leaders, including Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson, chairman of The Conference of National Black Churches. “All who are blessed to engage in this profound work will find a companion to expanding knowledge of the Word of God. This book is a
must-read for all people of faith,” Richardson said. Bishop Sheard explained his devotional differs from other compilations because it challenges readers to go beyond their relationship with the Lord and help someone else have a relationship with the Lord. He prays this devotional will bless people and uplift them so they can know that God is able to see them through and give them strength. “God promised never to put too much on us that we can’t bear, and if you are dealing with it, you can make it. That was the impetus of me writing this book.”
single salary to establish the office. The other two employees will be sought during the 2024 budget session. “It’s to establish that we do need an administrator first. The fact that we’re a little low on funds…,” said Commissioner Erika Sugarmon. “It is the hope of this commissioner, going forward into the next budget season, that we fully fund the CLERC with all three positions...” The money would come from the commission’s contingency fund. However, commissioners will have to “read from the same page,” before a vote can take place. During discussion, resolution sponsor Erika Sugarmon didn’t have a copy of the amended item. While an exhibit was produced, not every member received a copy. Some were still working off the original resolution. Confusion followed. As a result, Thornton requested the item be brought back to the Budget & Finance Committee. The product of a 2022 commission resolution, CLERC will be tasked providing oversight to the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office. It would function as a Shelby County counterpart to an in-the-works replacement for Memphis’ erstwhile CLERB. The former seven-person citizen oversight board was recently abolished following a law signed by Governor Bill
Lee. Established in 1994, CLERB was a 13-member board tasked with reviewing grievances against Memphis Police Department officers by civilians. Its members were appointed by the mayor of Memphis and approved by the Memphis City Council. “The job description matches state law, which changed as of July 1,” said county attorney Marcy Ingram. “So, it matches what is in state law, the new requirements for the executive director.” The commission’s oversight board, which would align with state law, would have three members. Its staff would be appointed by the county mayor. Another question waiting to be fleshed out is who the board answers to. “Can we elaborate on what the means, in terms of management?” asked Whaley. “Are they a part of the County Commission office?” During the meeting, commissioners also kicked the can on a third and final vote to replace the Shelby County Land Bank with a county real estate department, which would oversee the sale of delinquent tax properties. During the proposal’s second reading on Oct. 16, it passed on a 6-4 vote. It needs a seven-vote majority to pass in its third reading. It is sponsored by Thornton.
(To order the devotional, you can visit the website www. sayittellitliveit.com.)
Former Memphis officer charged in Tyre Nichols death to change plea in federal court by Adrian Sainz The Associated Press
MEMPHIS — A former Memphis police officer, who plans to change his not guilty plea to federal civil rights violations in the fatal beating of Tyre Nichols, will become the first of five officers charged in the case to break ranks with his former colleagues. A change of plea hearing has been scheduled for Thursday (Nov. 2) for Desmond Mills Jr., according to federal court documents and his lawyer. Mills and four other former Memphis Police Department officers have been charged in federal court with using excessive force, failing to intervene, deliberate indifference and conspiring to lie after they were caught on camera punching, kicking and hitting Nichols with a police baton on Jan. 7. Nichols died three days later in a hospital. The federal charges also include obstruction of justice through witness tampering. The five former officers — Mills, Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Emmitt Martin and Justin Smith — also have pleaded not guilty to second-degree murder and other charges in state court. Mills’ lawyer, Blake Ballin, said he could not discuss details of the plea agreement, including which charges it pertains to. Ballin said Mills was changing his plea “to take responsibility for his actions.” Mills also plans to enter a plea agreement in state court, but that would not take place
until later, Ballin said. U.S. District Judge Mark Norris has scheduled a May trial for the officers in the federal case. A trial has not been set in state court. The fatal beating of Nichols, 29, was one of several violent encounters between police and Black people that sparked protests and renewed debate about police brutality and police reform in the U.S. The five former officers also are Black. They were fired from the department and the crime-suppression team they were part of disbanded after Nichols’ death. However, members of that Scorpion unit have been moved to other teams. Kristen Clarke, who leads the U.S. Department of Justice’s civil rights division, said at a Sept. 13 news conference that the five former officers used excessive force, failed to advise medical personnel about Nichols’ injuries and conspired to cover up their misconduct. The indictment says the officers failed to tell dispatchers, their supervisor and emergency medical technicians they knew Nichols had been hit repeatedly. It alleged they were trying to cover up their use of force and shield themselves from criminal liability. Additionally, the indictment alleges instances where the officers used their body cameras to limit what evidence could be captured at the scene. Police have said Nichols was pulled over on an allegation of reckless driving. Police Chief Cerelyn “CJ’ Davis
said later that no evidence was found that Nichols was driving recklessly. Nichols ran away from officers who tried to restrain him outside of his car. He ran toward his nearby home and called out for his mother as he was pummeled just steps from his house. An autopsy report showed Nichols died from blows to the head, and the manner of death was homicide. The report described brain injuries, cuts, and bruises to the head and other parts of the body. In a state court filing, Mills’ lawyer said the officer was not at the traffic stop. In a separate filing, prosecutors said Nichols was “a helpless victim” as he was hit by Haley, Martin and Mills while being held by Bean and Smith. The officers made statements about the beating during an internal police investigation. The so-called Garrity statements are disclosures made by police officers during internal investigations under the threat of termination if they stay silent. They have been viewed by courts as compelled and therefore cannot be used in criminal court. Mills said in his Garrity statement that he struck Nichols three times with a baton and deployed pepper spray twice because “officers were unable to handcuff him,” the documents say. The records say Mills admitted that he didn’t “provide immediate medical aid and walked away and decontaminated” himself “from chemical irritant spray.”
The New Tri-State Defender
November 2 - 8, 2023
Being a great place to work has its rewards. And awards. Because of our investments in industry-leading programs and resources, and our commitment to helping teammates achieve their personal and professional goals, we were awarded the Grand Stevie Award for Organization of the Year. I’m proud of this recognition, really proud of our dedicated employees, but most especially proud to be part of this community we all serve. Trevia Chatman President, Bank of America Memphis
Learn more at bankofamerica.com/memphis
What would you like the power to do?®
The Stevie Awards recognize the achievements of businesses and professionals worldwide. Organizations self-nominate, providing data for various categories, and winners are determined by the average scores of more than 240 professionals worldwide serving as judges. Bank of America, N.A. Member FDIC. Equal Credit Opportunity Lender © 2023 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.
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PERSPECTIVE The New Tri-State Defender, November 2 - 8, 2023, Page 4
Paid family and medical leave would help millions of workers, families and employers by Josephine Kalipeni NNPA Newswire
In a country where most people must work to make ends meet, work isn’t working for most families. The impossible, exhausting cycle of careers and caregiving doesn’t allow for real work-life balance. Workers and their families are tired, and we’re paying the price for living in a country that doesn’t have a care infrastructure to support them. We are struggling to Josephine hang onto our Kalipeni jobs while caring for our families. Fortunately, there is an opportunity to change that. Last week, the Senate Finance Committee held its first-ever hearing on paid family and medical leave. The United States is the only member of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) that does not require workplaces to provide paid family and medical leave as a benefit of employment. When nearly all developed countries have acknowledged the importance of paid family and medical leave, the silence of the United States is ominous. Nearly half of U.S. families live on the edge of financial ruin, according to the Corporation for Enterprise Development. This financial precariousness forces people to make the impossible choice between caring for sick or elderly family members and financial disaster. The AARP found that there are 53 million caregivers in this country; that doesn’t include parents caring for children, grandparents caring for children, or young adults and children caring for an adult. Many of these caregivers are also working. Households of color are more likely to be multigenerational, with children and elders who depend on breadwinners. Women of color are disproportionately affected by the absence of paid family and medical leave. Black women, in particular, are more likely to participate in the workforce and serve as the primary breadwinners for their families, meaning we often face the difficult task of juggling both caregiving and work. Without paid family and medical leave, our entire families are vulnerable to circumstances that are often unpredictable. Paid family and medical leave would allow workplaces to retain talent, provide financial leverage for people to participate in the economy, and keep families afloat during times of crisis. But it is also scarce, especially for people in lower-paid and hourly positions. Implementing paid family and medical leave at the national level not only benefits families, but it also has the potential to improve businesses and communities. Companies are likely to see reduced turnover and more job satisfaction and productivity from their employees. A financially secure family is better equipped to contribute to the local community and will have more money to spend – boosting local economies. Crucially, paid family and medical
“The United States is the only member of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) that does not require workplaces to provide paid family and medical leave as a benefit of employment. When nearly all developed countries have acknowledged the importance of paid family and medical leave, the silence of the United States is ominous.” – Josephine Kalipeni leave also strengthens public health. When caregivers can take time off work without paying devastating financial consequences, our sick family members can more easily remain in their homes while they’re both contagious and convalescing. In a decade that will likely forever be associated with a global pandemic, the physical health of our communities has never been more important. Family Values @ Work and our state Network partners have been building this movement for more than 20 years and winning paid family and medical leave and paid sick and safe days state-by-state while building the political pressure necessary to win a federal bill. The recent hearing was a significant milestone in our work, and motivation to continue organizing, advocating, and winning policies that support families. Paid family and medical leave makes sense for families, businesses, and communities. It’s a win-win solution for everyone. To secure a brighter, more equitable future for working families, Congress should act now. The Senate Finance Committee’s next step is to pass the FAMILY Act out of committee immediately. The House should follow the lead of their colleagues and they don’t have to wait. The FAMILY Act has already been introduced in both chambers and meets Family Values @ Work’s definition of equitable policy. The FAMILY Act would provide workers with up to 12 weeks of paid time off for the birth or adoption of a new child and for personal medical needs, or the care of a seriously ill family member, and now includes safe leave for sexual or domestic violence. Workers will receive wage replacement on a tiered scale, and it ensures that workers will have a job to return to after taking time to care. No family should be forced to choose between a paycheck and their loved ones – especially not when practical policy decisions are ready to be enacted to help them. (Josephine Kalipeni (@malawian81) is an economic justice advocate and executive director of Family Values @ Work, a movement network of grassroots organizers and coalitions in more than two dozen states working to win paid family and medical leave, earned sick and safe days, and affordable, high-quality childcare at the state and national levels.)
Estate planning can make the most of what you have, both now and after your death. It allows you to arrange your affairs according to your wishes and distribute your assets. You also can provide for a church or charity, or support your favorite cause. (Photo: Karanja A. Ajanaku/The New Tri-State Defender)
The holidays are a good time to plan ahead and help those you love
Special to The New Tri-State Defender The holiday season is a time for gift-giving and gatherings with families and friends. What better time to discuss your will or trust, which are likely to be the greatest gifts you will ever give. Estate planning can make the most of what you have, both now and after your death. It allows you to arrange your affairs according to your wishes and distribute your assets. You also can provide for a church or charity, or support your favorite cause. Check this month to make certain your documents are up-to-date. Discuss your wishes with appropriate family members so everyone is clear about your goals and directives. If you don’t designate a beneficiary, your assets could be held in probate — a legal process where a court must sort out your financial situation. The probate process can be lengthy and complicated, and it may take years before your loved ones can access your assets. Holiday estate checklist: • Is your beneficiary designation up to date? • Is your advanced care directive or living will complete? • Does your family know where you keep your important documents? • If possible, take time to address any liens or additional issues that could jeopardize transfer of your house? Why estate planning matters • Protects your loved ones: Estate planning safeguards the financial security of your family. It ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, minimizing disputes and potential hardships. • Reduces tax liabilities: Effective estate planning can help reduce the tax burden on your
estate. • Healthcare decisions: Estate planning allows you to make important decisions regarding your healthcare and designate who will make medical decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to do so. • Helps avoid costly probate: Careful estate planning can help avoid the costly and time-consuming probate process. Assets structured properly can pass to heirs more quickly and with less expense. The key components of estate planning • Last will and Testament: A will outlines how assets will be distributed following your death. It specifies beneficiaries, guardians for minors, and even leaves instructions for your funeral. • Trusts: Trusts offer a way to manage and distribute assets efficiently. They can also provide added privacy and flexibility in managing your estate. • Power of attorney: Designate someone you trust to make financial and legal decisions on your behalf, if you become unable to do so. A power of attorney must be designated before you become mentally incapacitated and unable to make decisions on your own behalf. • Healthcare proxy and advance directives: Specify your medical treatment preferences and designate someone to make healthcare decisions for you when you can’t. • Beneficiary designations: Review and update the beneficiaries on your retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and other financial accounts. • Estate tax planning: Consult with an estate planning professional to minimize tax liabilities and maximize the value of your estate. (The U.S. Institute of Food and Agriculture offers free estate planning tips and resources at https://www.nifa.usda.gov/grants/programs/ financial-capability/estate-planning-resources:)
Information • Inspiration • Elevation Published by Best Media Properties, Inc.
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The New Tri-State Defender
November 2 - 8, 2023
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RELIGION
Increase in harassment against Jewish and Muslim Americans reported since Hamas attacks by Claudia Lauer Associated Press
Muslim and Jewish civil rights groups say they’ve seen large increases in reports of harassment, bias and sometimes physical assaults against members of their communities since the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks. The Anti-Defamation League and the Council on American-Islamic Relations saw increases in reported instances, many involving violence or threats against protesters at rallies in support of Israel or in support of Palestinians over the last two weeks as war broke out between Israel and Hamas. Other attacks and harassment reported by the groups were directed at random Muslim or Jewish people in public. A spokesperson for the Council on American-Islamic Relations said last week (Oct. 26) that the organization’s chapters and national office had
received 774 reports of bias-related acts between Oct. 7 and Oct. 24. The national headquarters had 110 direct reports during that period, compared to 63 for all of August. The council’s leaders believe it’s the largest wave of complaints since December 2015, when then-presidential candidate Donald Trump declared his intent to ban Muslim immigration to the U.S. in the wake of the San Bernadino mass shooting that left 14 people dead. The reported acts since Oct. 7 include an Illinois landlord fatally stabbing a 6-year-old Muslim boy and wounding the boy’s mother, police say, as well as the arrest of a Michigan man after police say he asked people in a social media post to join him in hunting Palestinians. “Public officials should do everything in their power to keep the wave of hate sweeping the nation right now from spiraling out of control,” said Corey Saylor, research and advocacy director of the Council on Amer-
ican-Islamic Relations. Saylor noted that former President George W. Bush’s visit to a mosque after the 9/11 attacks had a calming effect on the backlash felt in Muslim communities. He called on President Joe Biden to visit with Americans who lost family members in Gaza. The Anti-Defamation League’s Center on Extremism reported in a statement (Oct. 26) that the organization recorded at least 312 reports of antisemitic acts between Oct. 7 and Oct. 23 – compared to 64 recorded during the same time period in 2022. Those reports included graffiti, slurs or anonymous postings, as well as physical violence such as a woman being punched in the face in New York by an attacker who the league says said, “You are Jewish.” The 312 reports included 109 anti-Israel sentiments spoken or proclaimed at rallies the Anti-Defamation League’s Center on Extremism found to be “explicit or strong im-
plicit support for Hamas and/or violence against Jews in Israel,” according to the statement. Protesters at several of the rallies used the slogan, “from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free,” which the Anti-Defamation League and other Jewish groups have criticized as a call to dismantle the state of Israel. Many Palestinian activists say they are not calling for the destruction of Israel, but for freedom of movement and equal rights and protections for Palestinians throughout the land. The Anti-Defamation League called for strong responses to antisemitic posts, rhetoric and acts. The organization said violent messages that mention Jews on platforms like Telegram Messenger have increased even more than reports of in-person instances. “It is incumbent on all leaders, from political leaders to CEOs to university presidents, to forcefully and unequivocally condemn antisemi-
“It is incumbent on all leaders, from political leaders to CEOs to university presidents, to forcefully and unequivocally condemn antisemitism and terrorism.” — Jonathan Greenblatt tism and terrorism,” Jonathan Greenblatt, Anti-Defamation League CEO, wrote in the statement. Jewish civil rights organizations in the United Kingdom, France and other countries across Europe, Latin America, North Africa and elsewhere have also tracked increases in antisemitic acts in the past few weeks compared to 2022. League officials said London police had received 218 reports of antisemitic crimes between Oct. 1 and Oct. 18, which was 13 times greater than the numbers reported in 2022. (Associated Press reporter Noreen Nasir in New York contributed to this report.)
Impart Ministries trio works to ‘please the Lord and serve His people’ while helping breast cancer sufferers by Rev. Pamela Triplett Williams
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
Impart Ministries was established in 2014 with Carolyn Triplett, Nora Triplett and myself, Pamela Triplett Williams, as the charter members. We all shared a driving desire to please the Lord and serve His people. We were determined to honor women battling breast cancer. Many of our friends have been diagnosed with cancer and we wanted them to know they were not alone. Carolyn and I are sisters. Our aunt, Nora, is now 87 years old and she still works untiringly in our shared endeavor. She sells the most tickets every year to our fundraising brunches and she always makes the banana pudding –always the first dessert to leave the table. Nora says showing love and working in ministry – no matter how big or small – is what keeps her going. During our journey of love, we have worked together to encourage and show acts of kindness toward those in the fight. We have had Pink services, made baskets for cancer survivors, prepared and delivered dinners to those who weren’t feeling well, and offered prayer and words of comfort to all who needed it. Our focus presently is the pink brunch to honor our heroes fighting this disease and donating to the chemo centers. Each year in October, we prepare a smorgasbord of foods representing different countries such as China, Italy, USA, Mexico, etc. We sell tickets to the event and during this great occasion, we honor our friends, family and all that have been touched by this
Carolyn Triplett and Pamela Triplett Williams with their aunt Nora Triplett – the charter members of Impart Ministries. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender)
Farewell to “A Drum Major for Justice”… Reghan Wilkins and Rylee Wilkins, daughters of renowned local attorney Ricky E. Wilkins, are escorted out of First Baptist Church – Broad Avenue after the service (Oct. 28) celebrating the life and legacy of Wilkins, who died on Oct. 19 after a long battle with Glioblastoma, a rare form of brain cancer. He was 58. High school classmates, friends, colleagues and many others, including former Mayor Dr. Willie W. Herenton, paid tribute to the influential Wilkins, whose public service included many years on the Memphis Housing Authority board. (Photo: Patricia A. Rogers, Public Relations)
During the Impart Ministries brunch, love and joy was spread among those attending. many people in attendance. A portion of the proceeds from the brunch go the West Clinic to purchase snacks for the chemo patients. disease on some level. During the brunch, there is so much love and joy spread among the many people in attendance. After the brunch, we continue to express our concern and passion by donating a portion of the proceeds from the Brunch to the West Clinic to purchase
snacks for the chemo patients. In 2022, we were fortunate enough to donate two carts of snacks to the center and we are endeavoring to do more in 2023. Love and support is the driving force that will help us win this fight against cancer!!
The New Tri-State Defender, November 2 - 8, 2023, Page 6
Ever-changing world of style celebrated at ‘Four Seasons of Fashion’ show
Proceeds benefitted Memphis/Shelby County Section of the National Council of Negro Women programs TSD Newsroom “Four Seasons of Fashion” was the anchoring theme as the Memphis/Shelby County Section of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) held its best dressed fashion show, brunch and marketplace event at the Hilton
Hotel, 939 Ridge Lake Blvd. last Saturday (Oct. 28). The fashion show was designed to celebrate the “ever-changing world of style.” The show spotlighted models and designers and featured models recognized as “Best Dressed” for three consecutive years Proceeds were devoted to NCNW Memphis/Shelby County Section programs, including the Youth Sec-
tion’s Girls Intended for Greatness, ACT Workshops, and Health and Wellness Fair. The programs are considered instrumental in “advancing opportunities and enhancing the quality of life for women, their families and communities.” The event co-chairs were Deborah Harris and Dollie Massey, with Cleona Yeboah serving as publicity chair.
(Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender)
The New Tri-State Defender
November 2 - 8, 2023
Page 7
ENTERTAINMENT
The history of the Invaders and Mad Lads overlapped, with John Gary Williams of the Mad Lads also a member of the Invaders. His legacy was highlighted during the event.
John Burl Smith, a member of the invaders and author “The 400th - From Slavery to Hip Hop.” (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender)
An evening featuring The Mad Lads and the Invaders
Special to The New Tri-State Defender The Stax Museum of American Soul Music, 926 E. McLemore,rocked last Friday night (Oct. 27), with the new Mad Lads performing and the debut of a new exhibition featuring The Invaders, the Memphis-based activist group that become prominent in the late 1960s.
The Mad Lads.
The original Mad Lads rhythm and blues vocal group recorded on the Stax subsidiary label Volt in the 1960s. “Don’t Have to Shop Around” and “I Want Someone” are widely remembered as their biggest hits. The history of the Invaders and Mad Lads overlapped, with John Gary Williams of The Mad Lads also a member of the Invaders. His legacy was highlighted during the
A packed house.
event. The night unfolded with a live performance, a conversation with John B. Smith and Richard Williams and others, and the new Invaders exhibit, featuring Williams’ Mad Lads stage suit jacket and his Invaders’ jacket. Also contributing to the evening’s entertainment was the Stax Music Academy Alumni Band.
COMMUNITY The New Tri-State Defender, November 2 - 8, 2023, Page 8
The Regions Foundation and Memphis Medical District Collaborative announce new community partnership $25,000 contribution will support Hire Local career connections program TSD Newsroom The Regions Foundation and the Memphis Medical District Collaborative announced a new community partnership dedicated to strengthening training, education, and employment connections. The $25,000 grant awarded by the Regions Foundation, a nonprofit initiative primarily funded by Regions Bank, will specifically support MMDC’s Hire Local program. The Alabama-based Regions Foundation consistently invests in workforce development initiatives, as well as economic and community development and financial wellness initiatives. Since 2018, the Hire Local program has proven instrumental in the lives of Memphis Medical District residents by offering a training and education pipeline for hundreds across several disciplines. Through its partnership with participating hospitals and local workforce providers, MMDC connects people in the district to training programs to help them obtain the qualifications needed to seek employment opportunities, offers resume and interview assistance, and provides referrals to available jobs in the area. Hire Local also fosters those connections from the employer side. “Hire Local serves as a conduit between people looking for rewarding careers and employers looking for their next qualified hire,” said Marta Self, executive director of the Regions Foundation. Self continued, “By connecting the two, this program is elevating the skill sets and confidence of participants while filling the pipeline of in-demand jobs. The Regions Foundation is proud to support this work because when more people earn a livable wage, more people can take part in the success and growth of Memphis and the Mid-South.” Hire Local’s support doesn’t end when residents accept an employment offer. Residents continue to receive support services and additional training through their early career milestones allowing them to learn as they earn. This strengthens the lives of Mem-
phis residents and fills open positions at major hospitals in the area. “Memphis is brimming with talent, cultivating this talent through career-aligned training and education is essential for the success of our community. With the help of our partners, we are able to continue upskilling Memphians for in-demand careers close to home,” Rory Thomas, MMDC president said. Thomas added, “The Regions Foundation’s investment in our participants will pay dividends into the future as their lives and their families change for a better, brighter, future.” For many, that investment means an employment offer from Methodist University Hospital. In the graduating cohort, 18 of the 23 students participating in the cohort have been offered positions by the hospital. Dexter McKinney, director of talent planning and strategies at Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, said, “For more than 100 years, we’ve lived our mission Methodist Le Bonheur is honored to play a role in helping our community members find jobs in the same neighborhood they call home.” McKinney said the program’s goal is to improve “every life we touch and that is only possible through the selfless and dedicated staff members who devote every day to our patients.” Hire Local’s partners include Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, Baptist Health Sciences University, FedEx, Southwest Tennessee Community College, Memphis Shelby County Schools (MSCS), Career Academy, Whole Child Strategies, City of Memphis and many more. “The growing number of employers in the program shows how Hire Local is moving the economic needle – not just in the Medical District, but throughout Memphis,” said David May, commercial banking leader for Regions Bank’s Mid-America territory and market executive in Memphis. “We’re grateful to our colleagues at the Regions Foundation for their investment in MMDC’s work to advance valuable workforce training and create lasting career connections.”
LeMoyne-Owen College to create pipeline for Memphis business and law enforcement leaders TSD Newsroom LeMoyne-Owen College is re-launching the college’s Accelerated Studies for Adults and Professionals Program (ASAP). The revived program will soon offer bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice and business administration. “LeMoyne’s success means success for Memphis. More than any other institution of higher education in this area, most of our graduates continue to work, live, and thrive in Memphis,” said Dr. Christopher Davis, interim LOC president. “This program will further help us fill in professional gaps in our community, so interested students should know that graduation from here can lead to immediate career opportunities.”
Ted Townsend, president & CEO of the Greater Memphis Chamber, said, “Memphis was just named the fastest-growing city in the U.S. for jobs, with a job growth rate that outpaced the nation’s in September. … “Memphis has the jobs, and thanks to education partners like LeMoyne-Owen College – Memphis’ only Historically Black College/University – people are filling them. “We’re honored to support LeMoyne-Owen College as it works to bring new opportunities to people in our region.” Details of the program, including qualifications and a start date, were set for a formal announcement on Wednesday (Nov. 1) during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on the LeMoyne-Owen campus, 807 Walker Avenue, in Brownlee Hall.
Beverly Anderson, Alpha Eta Zeta DOVE Foundation Board chair, addresses attendees at Zeta Phi Beta Sorority’s annual Domestic Violence Awareness Forum Oct. 28 at Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church. The event focused on domestic violence as a “silent killer” that has serious consequences for victims and their families. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender)
Domestic Violence: The Silent Killer by Stacey J. Smith
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
There are numerous books, movies, songs, poems, studies and news articles and advocacy groups focused on domestic violence and its prevention. Yet, it continues to be the culprit in dysfunctional families, intimate partner relationships, and strained marriages. The Alpha Eta Zeta DOVE Foundation, the fundraising arm of the Memphis Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, which is dedicated to improving the lives of others, focused on the issue Oct. 28 during its annual Domestic Violence Awareness Forum at Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church. Beverly Anderson, the Alpha Eta Zeta DOVE Foundation Board chair, stressed the importance of continuing to have forums and events to bring awareness to the “silent killer.” Domestic violence is defined as a pattern of controlling behavior that consists of physical, sexual and/ or psychological abuse or assaults committed by one intimate partner against another. Domestic violence often occurs because a partner wants to control the thoughts, beliefs and conduct of his or her significant other. (see family safety center.org) Many victims of domestic violence escape it, some do not survive it, but then there are others who endure it. “Why don’t they just leave?” many ask. It is not as easy as it sounds. Many want their children to have a two-parent household. Some want to be in a relationship, regardless of the abuse. Others simply do not have an escape plan. There is help, whether the abuse
“I have traveled to more than 75 countries, and I will continue to do so in order to become a beacon of light for those who are victims of abuse and human trafficking.” — Rev. Barbara FarmerTolbert is mental or physical. According to Shelby County government statistics, more than half of crimes against persons are domestic violence related. Tennessee ranks seventh overall in the nation for the number of women killed by men. What can we do? Ms. Yolandria Taylor, chair of this year’s events, gathered her committee and asked them to consider having events throughout the month of October. Since October is also Breast Cancer Awareness month, sometimes the purple gets overshadowed by the pink. Taylor said, “We wanted to offer events that would be helpful, educational, and impactful to the entire community.” The group offered a self-defense class at the Whitehaven Branch Library, donated toiletries to the Memphis Safety Center, held a Night Walk from the UT Health Sciences Park to the Crime Victims & Rape Crisis Center. The finale for these events was the Domestic Violence Awareness Forum. The forum featured speakers from the Memphis Crisis Center, the Family Safety Center, the Love Foundation, and Sexual Victims Unit of the Memphis Police Department.
Each speaker was riveting as they discussed their services and accounts of victims› stories. Holly McCaskill, executive director of the Memphis Crisis Center, said their volunteers operate a 24-hour hotline that is completely confidential. “It is a compassionate lifeline for anyone in distress,” McCaskill said. Fannie Griffin, the outreach liaison at Family Safety Center, said the center helps in filing the Orders of Protection, a document issued by a judge or judicial commissioner that orders a domestic violence assailant to say away from a victim or face legal consequences, and finding emergency shelter for victims. “We also help mostly women navigate the many services available to them,” Griffin said. Barbara Love’s testimony about being a victim was moving. She started the Love Foundation as an outlet so others could find victory over the violence. “I want victims to know that you’re not alone and that it’s not your fault,” Love said. Rev. Barbara Farmer-Tolbert, a retired special victims unit detective, became an advocate for vulnerable persons because of the prevalence of domestic violence in Memphis. She has received accolades for her work and has gone through numerous training sessions to increase her awareness and credentials. “I have traveled to more than 75 countries, and I will continue to do so in order to become a beacon of light for those who are victims of abuse and human trafficking,” Farmer-Tolbert said. If you are aware of someone who is being abused or are seeking help, you can call 2-1-1, the Family Safety Center at 901-249-7611/ 901222-4400, or call 901-CRISIS-7 or the National Domestic Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.
The New Tri-State Defender
NEWS
November 2 - 8, 2023
Miss. Mom Whose Son Was Mysteriously Buried Wasn’t the Only One Having a Legal Battle with the AG The state attorney general justified the shooting of three people by Mississippi police last year by Kalyn Womack The Root
In 2022, three people were shot, and one killed, by Mississippi police officers. Despite the civilian lives endangered, the state attorney general said that pesky use of force policy justified the actions of the officers. The Attorney General’s Office released a statement Tuesday (Oct. 31) announcing the completion of the review of three incidents where a civilian was shot by the police. In October 2022, a George County Sheriff’s Office deputy shot and injured a man after responding to a domestic disturbance. In December 2022, a Richland police officer fatally shot Corlunda McGinister in a Walmart while allegedly holding an employee hostage with a firearm. In another incident, Latasha Smith was hit in the arm by a stray bullet after a Capitol Police officer fired at a suspect, sending bullets through
her apartment. She filed a lawsuit against the Mississippi Public Safety Commissioner and Capitol Police Chief alleging her constitutional rights were violated but her case was dismissed. Based on the investigations of the state bureau, the Attorney General’s Office concluded that the use of force was justified in each of the three cases, even when the person wasn’t the suspect. This is the latest shady take from the Attorney General’s Office. Bettersten Wade filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the Jacksonville Police on behalf of her brother, George Robinson, who died after being body-slammed on the ground by a cop, per AL. com. According to Benjamin Crump, Wade’s civil rights attorney, Attorney General Lynn Fitch asked the appeals court to overturn the manslaughter conviction of the officer involved. The report says she argued the prosecutors failed to
prove culpable negligence or indifference to the safety of human life. Three Jackson officers were accused of pulling Robinson from a car, body-slamming him on pavement and striking him in the head and chest as police were searching for a murder suspect. Robinson had been hospitalized for a stroke days before the police encounter and was on medication. He had a seizure hours after he was beaten, and he died two days later from bleeding on his brain. Crump said Bettersten Wade attended the criminal trial of Anthony Fox, one of the Jackson officers charged in Robinson’s death. In August 2022, a Hinds County jury convicted Fox of culpable negligence manslaughter. Second-degree murder charges against two officers were dropped. Mrs. Wade’s name resurfaced in the news again when she found her son was fatally struck by a police car and buried without her knowledge after she’d been looking for him for months.
Biden hits another milestone for Black female judicial nominees By Gerren Keith Gaynor theGrio
President Joe Biden Tuesday (Oct. 31) announced two more Black female judicial nominees, theGrio is exclusively reporting. Judge Julie S. Sneed, nominated to the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida, and Judge Jacquelyn D. Austin, nominated to the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina, are the latest judges added to the president’s historic number of Black women nominated to the federal bench. “The Biden-Harris administration continues to set records when it comes to professional and demographic diversity,” said Stephen Benjamin, director of the White House Office of Public Engagement, in a statement provided to theGrio. To date, 32 Black women appointed by Biden have been confirmed by the Senate to lifetime judgeships. Benjamin, who is also a senior adviser to the president, noted that the number of Black female federal judges is “more than any single administration in history.” The former mayor of Columbia, South Carolina, continued, “Today’s announcement includes two more Black women in Southern states – with bipartisan backing – both of whom are exceptionally well qualified and ready to hit the ground running once confirmed.”
Sneed has served as a U.S. magistrate for the Middle District of Florida since June 2015. Before her judgeship, she worked as a partner and associate at law firms Akerman LLP and Fowler White Boggs Banker, P.A. for more than a decade. She served as a law clerk for Judge James D. Whittemore on the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida from 2000 to 2004 and Judge Chris W. Altenbernd on the Florida Second District Court of Appeal from 1995 to 1997. Sneed received her J.D. from Florida State University College of Law in 1994 and her B.S. from the University of Florida in 1991. Austin has been a U.S. magistrate judge for the District of South Carolina since 2011. Before that, she worked in private practice at Womble Carlyle Sandridge & Rice, PLLC, where she started as an associate in the late ’90s and worked her way up to being a partner in 2006. Austin served as a law clerk for Judge Matthew J. Perry Jr. on the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina from 1996 to 1997. She received her J.D. from the University of South Carolina School of Law in 1996 and her B.S. from the University of South Carolina School of Engineering in 1989. Sneed and Austin are among four women in Florida and South Carolina in Tuesday’s announcement of Biden’s latest judicial nominations. Three of the four are women
of color. If Sneed and Austin and two other Black female judicial nominees awaiting action by the Senate are confirmed, Biden will have matched the total number of Black women confirmed by former Presidents Donald Trump, Barack Obama, and George W. Bush. As the White House touts, this administration will have accomplished in three years what the three most recent U.S. presidents did in two decades. The nominations continue a streak of women and people of color selected by Biden. Since entering the White House in 2021, the president has worked to reshape the federal courts to better reflect the nation’s diversity. Of the 148 life-tenured federal judges confirmed, twothirds are women and people of color. They also include a record number of civil rights lawyers and public defenders. Biden’s quest to diversify the federal bench comes after Trump reshaped both the U.S. Supreme Court and certain lower federal courts with right-wing conservative judges. Biden’s most praised judicial nominee was Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, who last year was sworn in as the first Black woman to serve on the Supreme Court. Gerren Keith Gaynor is a White House Correspondent and the Managing Editor of Politics at theGrio.
CLASSIFIEDS
PUBLIC NOTICE THE MEMPHIS URBAN AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION In compliance with federal regulations under Title 23 CFR 450, the Memphis Urban Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) is presenting eight (8) amendments to the MOVING TOGETHER 2050 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) and ten (10) amendments to the FY 2023‐26 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) for adoption, which have been made available for a 30-day public review and comment period from October 17 - November 15, 2023. The RTP and TIP amendments are associated with Air Quality Conformity Demonstration Reports for Shelby and DeSoto Counties, and one TIP amendment is included in an Exempt Memo Packet. The MPO will present the Carbon Reduction Program TIP Criteria, Memphis MPO’s Smoothed Urbanized Area (UZA) Boundary, Metropolitan Planning Area (MPA) Boundary, and the Memphis MPO’s 2024 Calendar for approval. The MPO will also present the 2023 Memphis Region Pedestrian and Bicycle Update and provide an update on the FY 2023 Annual Listing of Obligated Projects (ALOP). The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) will provide a presentation on the MPO’s 2023 Transportation Management Area (TMA) Certification Review. It is the policy of the Memphis MPO not to exclude, deny, or discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, immigration status, sex, gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, religion, veteran status, familial or marital status, disability, medical or genetic condition, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal or state law in its hiring or employment practices, or in its admission to, access to, or operations of its programs, services, or activities. For any and all inquiries regarding the application of this accessibility statement and related policies, or for persons that require aids or services to participate either in the review of these documents or during the hearing, please contact Nick Warren, at 901-6367146 or Nick.Warren@memphistn. gov. This notice is funded (in part) under an agreement with the State of TN and MS, Departments of Transportation.
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: Casey Cooper Tax Parcel #: 0250350000009C Tax Sale #: 1701 Price Offered: $3,500 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 9:00 a.m. on November 29, 2023, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY
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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: Tommy Williams Tax Parcel #: 03504600000120 Tax Sale #: 1901 Price Offered: $28,600 Terms: Cash Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 9:30 a.m. on November 29, 2023, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.
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Additional Offers to Purchase, of at least ten percent (10%) higher, may be submitted within Ten (10) working days of this notice. If additional offers are received during this ten (10) day period, all prospective Purchasers must attend a Public “Bid Off” at 10:00 a.m. on November 29, 2023, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Office, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150
Shelby County Land Bank 1075 MULLINS STATION, BLDG. E-1 MEMPHIS, TN 38134 (901) 222-1150 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Thomas Johnson III Tax Parcel #: 07507100000180 Tax Sale #: 1803 Price Offered: $5,700 Terms: Cash
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The New Tri-State Defender, November 2 - 8, 2023, Page 10
For Tyus Jones, starting against the Grizzlies was another stride forward by Terry Davis
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
WASHINGTON, DC – Over the summer, former Memphis Grizzlies’ point guard Tyus Jones lost his unofficial title as “best backup point guard in the NBA.” That happened when Jones was traded to the Washington Wizards to start a new chapter in his career as the starting point guard. Up to that point, Jones had been a critical link in the success of the Grizzlies backing up All-Star point guard Ja Morant. He took over the reins of the team when Morant was out for any reason. And, he was part Terry of the second unit that Davis kept the team going and – at times – provided the spark to get it going. Last Saturday (Oct. 28) in Washington, DC, Jones crossed paths with his old team in what was his second official game as a starter for the Washington Wizards. Before tipoff, Jones exchanged pleasantries with his former teammates and support team staff in what had the feel of a family reunion. That was the case after the game as well. The soft-spoken Jones helped create and find the music for the Grizzlies’ famous pregame entrances that other teams in the NBA now began to duplicate. After the buzzer sounded on the Wizards’ 116-106 win, it was all love for Jones. “It was great. That is my dog,” said Memphis’ All-Star power forward Jaren Jackson Jr. “I spent a lot of time with him. He and his family are doing great. That is all that matters.” With the Wizards, Jones is expected to be the locker-room leader of a unit with a
Tyus Jones, who was traded from Memphis to Washington during the off-season, guards Marcus Smart, who was traded from the Boston Celtics to the Grizzlies.
A fan favorite while playing in Memphis, Tyus Jones shares a moment with his son on a night that his new team, the Washington Wizards, added to the losing woes of the Grizzlies. (Photos: Terry Davis/The New Tri-State Defender)
lot of growing to do. “He is a young vet and he is very steady,” said the Wizards’ head coach, Wes Unseld Jr. “He is a high assist and low turnover guy. With that, it gives us a little comfort. He makes my job at times easy. He knows what is needed. He understands how to get guys involved. When you have a guy out that there that steadies the ship at times, that is great.” Memphis Grizzlies head coach called Jones “an unbelievable person. It meant a lot to us and to me, in the locker room, on the floor. He took the nickname ‘Stones.’ He embraced it. It is all about the right thing. What stands out the most, is he would do anything for the team to win.” Desmond Bane, who has taken up some of the leadership slack created with the departure of Jones from the Grizzlies, said ones “earned himself a starting spot. I wish him all the success in the world.” The game was the first of only two meetings that Jones will have with his former. Washington will play Memphis in March at FedExForum, providing fans of the Grizzlies an opportunity to show Jones the love and affection they have for him.
Newest Black NFL Coach: Antonio Pierce
The Raiders named Antonio Pierce and Champ Kelly as their interim head coach and general manager shortly after firing Josh McDaniels and David Ziegler. By Noah A. McGee The Root
There’s a new Black coach (and general manager) in the NFL. Although they’ve only been given the interim tag, we gotta take our wins where we can get them. Early Wednesday (Nov. 1) morning, the Las Vegas Raiders announced the firing of Head Coach Josh McDaniels and General Manager David Ziegler, with owner Mark Davis writing in a statement: “After much thought about what the Raiders need to move forward, I have decided to part ways with Josh and Dave. I want to thank them both for their hard work and wish them and their families nothing but the best.” The news that McDaniels and Ziegler have been fired shouldn’t be a shock to any football fans, considering the Raiders have been god-awful since their arrival. Since they were both hired in 2022, the team has a pathetic record of 9-16, most recently losing their Monday Night Football matchup with the Detroit Lions. The more interesting news came shortly after when the Raiders announced that Linebackers Coach Antonio Pierce and Assistant General Manager Champ Kelly, two Black men, would be taking over the posi-
(Photo: Nick Cammett/Diamond Images/Getty Images) tions of head coach and general manager respectively (as interims). With this hire, Pierce is only the fifth Black coach currently in the league, joining Mike Tomlin (Pittsburgh Steelers), Todd Bowles (Tampa Bay Buccaneers), DeMeco Ryans (Houston Texans), and Mike McDaniel (Miami Dolphins). Before his gig with the Raiders, Pierce was a nine-year NFL veteran, playing from 2001 to 2009 with the Washington Commanders and New York Giants. He
won a Super Bowl with the Giants in 2007. After retiring, he became an analyst for ESPN. In 2014, Pierce went back to football, coaching high school powerhouse Long Beach Polytechnic High School for three years. He then moved his way up to college football, working as a linebackers coach and defensive coordinator with Arizona State University from 2017-2022. He left the university due to his involvement in a
recruiting scandal at the school. Prior to the 2022 NFL season, Pierce was hired as the linebackers coach for the Raiders. Kelly’s promotion as the new general manager makes the list of Black GMs increase to nine, with the others being on the Detroit Lions, Miami Dolphins, Cleveland Browns, Atlanta Falcons, Minnesota Vikings, Tennessee Titans, Chicago Bears, and Washington Commanders. While it’s dope to see two Black men occupy two of the more sought-after positions in the NFL, they in no way have any job security. The next nine games will serve as “prove it” performances for Pierce and Kelly. Even if they perform admirably, it does not mean that they will have their current positions locked down. Too many times, we’ve seen Black head coaches perform well and still get replaced. Just look at Brian Flores and the job he did with the Miami Dolphins. He made that team competitive when no one expected them to and he was still fired. More than likely, both men, especially Pierce, will serve as bridges for the team to hire a head coach the team truly wants. Hopefully, it’s another Black man but likely, it won’t be.