The New Tri-State Defender - November 11-17, 2021 by The Tri-State Defender

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November 11 - 17, 2021

VOL. 70, No. 45

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Diversity concerns aired as the UofM chooses its new president

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

A letter dated Nov. 9 – the day University of Memphis brass embraced Dr. Bill Hardgrave as its next president – seeks answers in 10 days to questions regarding Hardgrave’s stated commitment to prioritizing di-

versity initiatives. The letter was sent to the university’s Board of Trustees by the Shelby County Board of Commissioners’ Black Caucus and the Memphis Branch NAACP. Van Turner Jr., who is both a county commissioner and president of the Memphis NAACP, said it was important to express concern about a

continuing commitment to diversity. The letter states directly that Shelby County Board of Commissioners’ Black Caucus and the Memphis Branch NAACP were “woefully disappointed in the lack of racial diversity represented among the finalists.” When he takes over officially next spring, Hardgrave will be the UofM’s 13th president. His background

includes serving as provost and vice-president for academic affairs at Auburn University, where for a time he also was dean of the university’s business college. “The NAACP co-authored the letter with the Black Caucus out of a need to express a growing concern in the community,” Turner told The New Tri-State Defender (TSD) on

Dr. Bill Hardgrave

Van Turner Jr.

Wednesday. “Hopefully, as Dr. Hardgrave takes over and builds out his leadership team, he will accept our letter in the spirit of collaboration.

SEE UofM ON PAGE 2

Pastor J. Lawrence Turner has shepherded historic Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church since 2013. (Courtesy photo)

‘The Blvd’ at 100

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Jalen Duren announces his Division 1 presence. (Photo: Warren Roseborough)

Tigers flash signs of ‘what’s to come’ in opening romp

by Terry Davis

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

If the University of Memphis Tigers reach their ultimate goals of the Final Four and a national championship, the memory of their opening-game win over Tennessee Tech will be little more than a blur. And while Tiger Nation should proceed with caution, there was enough about Wednesday night’s 89-65 pasting of Tennessee Tech to generate fresh thoughts of the Tigers raising the NCAA Championship banner in New Orleans. With its talent-ladened roster featuring two players – Jalen Duren and Emoni Bates – on the list of must-see prospects by NBA talent hounds, the Tigers stepped strong in the 2021-22 basketball season.

“Just happy to have the first win under our belt,” said head coach Penny Hardaway. “I am looking to get back into the practice facility to get better.” The talent of the Tigers was just too much for the Golden Eagles. “Duren (Jalen) took away around the basket,” said Golden Eagles coach John Pelphrey. “He is something else. You really have to account for him. With controlled enthusiasm, Hardaway summed up Duren’s game on defense. “We switched every pick and roll and dribble handoff; he had to guard a guard the entire game and never got beat off the dribble. We told him to go after every shot-block. If he did not

SEE TIGERS ON PAGE 2

The Centennial Founders Day celebration at Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church was a day of both solemn remembrance and looking forward to future vision. The Sunday service (Nov. 7) featured a virtually orchestrated series of videos recorded of former events and interviews of long-time members, who helped shape the ministry. Church officers and former members shared reflections from the first 100 years at MBCC, young people danced to Kirk Franklin’s brand of untraditional gospel and sang contemporary music. Inspiring bands played innovative, original jazz tunes. A liturgical, operatic ensemble sang some of the abiding, Christian hymns that have lasted through the centuries, accompanied by an impressive symphony of horns and strings. And, of course, the founding of Mississippi Boulevard as the first African-American church in Memphis under the Disciples of Christ (DOC) denomination was recounted, and the man behind the church’s 1921 beginning, Dr. Joseph Edison Walker, was honored. The celebration was punctuated by the highly anticipated centennial messages from Pastor J. Lawrence Turner and two of the church’s most impactful former pastors, Dr. Alvin O’Neal Jackson and Dr. Frank Thomas. Turner exhorted his congregation to have “The Courage to Continue.” “Success is not final and failure is not fatal,” Turner said. “At mountain peaks and valley

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The New Tri-State Defender

November 11 - 17, 2021

Page 2

NEWS UofM

CONTINUED FROM FRONT Equity and diversity will only make the University and this community stronger and better.” When the TSD sought comment through the University of Memphis marketing and communications office about whether the letter had been received, staff declined to comment on any matter pertaining to it. In the letter, the two groups join with others excited about the priority being put on enhancing the university’s research status, an effort Hargrave is expected take on before officially starting as president. Noting that Hargrave has said he is committed to working with the community and prioritizing diversity initiatives, the group asks for more details. Among the specific questions: • What does this commitment look

“There is diversity of the student body, and the culture of diversity is here, and in the great history and culture of this city. … The magic happens when we really can harness that and build upon that, coming from a place of strength.” — Dr. Bill Hardgrave like for Dr. Hardgrave? • How will the success of these commitments be measured in terms of impact? • What initiatives will Dr. Hardgrave undertake as now president of a university that is over 40 percent Black? • What training or experience will Dr. Hardgrave commit to to broaden his awareness considering he is leaving and institution that is 3 percent Black? While the groups would have preferred that their concerns had been addressed before the unanimous vote by the UofM Board of Trustees, here

is their resolve: “…that the Board of Trustees and Dr. Hardgrave commit to releasing answers to these questions within ten business days. We look forward to continued partnership with the University of Memphis as an anchor of the broader Memphis community and hope to see clearer examples of racial equity in the future.” On Tuesday during prepared remarks, Hardgrave said his three priorities would be academics, research and athletics. “We want to scrap and fight to keep getting better every day,” he said. “It’s going to take everyone pulling

in the same direction.” Over the next year, Hardgrave said he will be meeting with community leaders because he “needs to get to know the community.” Asked specifically about diversity, Hardgrave praised diversity as “one of the tremendous strengths of the university. “There is diversity of the student body, and the culture of diversity is here, and in the great history and culture of this city. … The magic happens when we really can harness that and build upon that, coming from a place of strength.” Hardgrave said he didn’t know what that looks like right now, adding that he would better understand in the next year as he gets to know the Memphis community. “We do know that diversity must be accessible, there must be an environment of inclusiveness and everyone must feel safe and welcome,” he said.

TIGERS

BLVD

block it, he altered it. You can’t ask for much more.” Duren put to words what was clear to observers. “It was a lot of fun,” said the Tigers’ designated rim protector. “I take a lot of pride in defense, especially coming to play for coach Penny. Just talking to him, he wants me to change shots at the rim. I am going to focus on that.” Appreciative of his defense, Memphis fans, who dig dunks, went wild as Duren crushed a few. The FedExForum crowd witnessed a complete-game performance by Bates, who treated them to dazzling moves. He made three pointers, connected with some nice passes to his teammates and he was great on the defensive end. Memphis was led in scoring by Bates with 17 points. Quinones and Duren each had 15 points. Former Tiger Mamoudou Diarra led the Golden Eagles with 11 points. “We had some really good moments in the game,” said Tennessee Tech’s Pelphrey. “We weren’t able to score and keep up in the second half. I thought we missed some opportunities.” Memphis roared to a 13-0 start using pressure defense. With the talent-difference evident, the question was whether the Tigers would stay focused. “No disrespect to Tennessee Tech,” said Hardaway, “the guys (Memphis’ players) look at these guys (the Golden Eagles) and say, ‘we are going to win.’ At some point during the game, they just are going through the motions. In the first half we got up, and in their minds it is time to relax.” The Tigers entered the season ranked No. 12 in the Associated Press poll and No. 16 in the College Coaches poll. They host North Carolina Central on Saturday (Nov. 13), with tipoff set for 6 p.m. “Starting the season … I am excited about where we are,” said Hardaway, “and what’s to come.”

lows, we must have the courage to continue. At a time when the shape and size of our ministry is unrecognizable in this pandemic, we must have the courage to continue.” Turner played gracious host to a number of segments during the memorable and historic tribute to the church’s centennial. The Blvd’s pastors and other leaders were prominently involved in civic activism during pivotal moments of the civil rights movement in Memphis. Jackson and Thomas answered Turner’s gracious invitation with messages of hope and strength for the journey ahead.

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

‘Holler for the change you seek’

Emoni Bates is expected to have the ball in his hands a lot during the Tigers’ hunt for post-season glory. (Photos: Warren Roseborough)

The Tigers’ new designated rim protector — Jalen Duren — blocks the shot of Diante Wood of Tennessee Tech.

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“Sometimes, it’s good to just howl at the feet of Jesus,” Jackson said. “Do you think this church just happened? You have to holler sometimes for the change you seek.” Jackson’s message of social consciousness lamented that something ugly has been unleashed by a president’s (former President Donald Trump) leadership. “There is anger and rage, and we see it played out in stores and restaurants,” said Jackson. “Racism and hatred are rampant. And taking from the words of Marvin Gaye’s “Inner City Blues,” ‘Makes Me Want to Holler.’” Persistence pays off, Jackson told the virtual gathering. “Have that dogged drive and determination that even Deity cannot disregard or deny,” said Jackson. “It’s OK to holler and be loud. Be persistent like that Syrophoenician woman. In this next century, holler until you get what you need. Holler for the change you seek.” ‘Renew Your ‘Yes

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Shelby County Commissioner Tami Sawyer, who chairs the Commission’s Black Caucus, lamented that the Board of Trustees chose Hardgrave in a 10-minute meeting, without considering the questions and concerns voiced about both “the lack of diversity in the selection process” and “Dr. Hardgrave’s stated commitments to diversity initiatives and the Memphis community.” In a statement issued by the University of Memphis announcing Hardgrave’s hire, he is extolled for securing a $40 million donation for Auburn during his 11-year tenure there. Hardgrave also established the Information Technology Research Institute in 1999 at the University of Arkansas, where he taught in the business school. He replaces M. David Rudd, who will be leaving the president’s post in May and returning to the faculty.

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“Remember when you first said ‘yes’ to God? Thomas asked. “Remember the purity of your call? Remember what you said to God in the beginning? Whatever you

Dr. Alvin O’Neal Jackson

Dr. Frank Thomas

want, I’m ready to do. Wherever you want me to go, I will go. Say ‘yes’ on this 100th anniversary. Let God be God. Renew your ‘yes.’” Roots Dr. Joseph Edison Walker, founder of a Universal Life Insurance Co. and Tri-State Bank, started the church with his wife, Lelia Walker, and their two children Johnetta Walker and A. Maceo Walker. Also signing the roll of founding members were seven others. The Tennessee State Evangelist for African Americans in DOC, Elder W.P. Martin, served as acting pastor from the summer of 1921 until the end of that year. The membership had increased to 28. Elder Blair T. Hunt, a prominent educator, civic leader and clergyman, became senior pastor in December 1921. Hunt was also prominently admired as principal of Booker T. Washington High School during his pastorate. Hunt led the church through important milestones of membership growth and spiritual maturity. He served until 1973. Pastors following Hunt were: ■ Elder Lee E. Koonce (19731978) ■ Dr. Alvin O. Jackson (19791997) ■ Rev. Thomas L. Murray (Interim 1998-1999) ■ Dr. Frank A. Thomas (19992012) ■ Rev. A. Denise Bell (Interim 2012-2013) ■ Dr. J. Lawrence Turner (2013-Present).

The New Tri-State Defender

November 11 - 17, 2021

NEWS

Rittenhouse: ‘I didn’t do anything wrong. I defended myself’ KENOSHA, Wis. (AP) – Kyle Rittenhouse testified Wednesday he was under attack when he killed two men and wounded a third with his rifle during a chaotic night of protests in Kenosha, saying: “I didn’t do anything wrong. I defended myself.” The 18-year-old took the stand at his murder trial to tell his side of what happened on the streets in the summer of 2020, sobbing so hard at one point that the judge called a break. In an account largely corroborated by video and the prosecution’s own witnesses, Rittenhouse said that the first man cornered him and put his hand on the barrel of Rittenhouse’s rifle, the second man hit him with a skateboard, and the third man came at him with a gun of his own. His nearly all-day testimony was interrupted by an angry exchange in which his lawyers demanded a mistrial over what they argued were out-of-bounds questions asked of him by the chief prosecutor. The judge, though plainly mad at the prosecutor, did not immediately rule on the request. And later in the day, he instructed the jury to expect closing arguments early next week. Rittenhouse is on trial over the shootings he committed during unrest that erupted in Kenosha over the wounding of Jacob Blake, a Black man, by a white Kenosha police officer. He could get life in prison. Rittenhouse, who was 17 at the time, went to Kenosha with an AR-style semi-automatic weapon and a medic bag in what the former police youth cadet said was an effort to protect property after rioters had set fires and ransacked businesses on previous nights. The case has divided Americans over whether Rittenhouse was a patriot taking a stand against lawlessness or a vigilante. At one point during his testimony he began crying and the judge called a recess. Largely composed the rest of the day, he came under tough cross-examination. Prosecutor Thomas Binger went hard at Rit-

Kyle Rittenhouse is sworn in before testifying in his trial at the Kenosha County Courthouse in Kenosha, Wis., on Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2021. (Photo: Sean Krajacic/The Kenosha News via AP, Pool) tenhouse during cross-examination, walking him through each of the shootings. Rittenhouse continually pushed back, saying he had no choice but to fire. Rittenhouse said he “didn’t want to have to shoot” Joseph Rosenbaum, the first man to fall that night, but he said Rosenbaum was chasing him and had threatened to kill him earlier. “If I would have let Mr. Rosenbaum take my firearm from me, he would have used it and killed me with it,” he said, “and probably killed more people.” But Rittenhouse also acknowledged that the strap holding his gun was in place and that he had both hands on the weapon. And Binger suggested that Rosenbaum might have been trying to bat the rifle away. The prosecutor sought to drive home the state’s contention that Rittenhouse created the dangerous situation in the first place. Rittenhouse testified that he then shot and killed protester Anthony Huber after Huber struck him in the neck with his skateboard and grabbed his gun. Then he wounded Gaige Grosskreutz, saying the protester had lunged at him “with his pistol pointed directly at my head.”

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PERSPECTIVE The New Tri-State Defender, November 11 - 17, 2021, Page 4

Beyond Red vs. Blue: The political typology Partisan polarization remains the dominant, seemingly unalterable condition of American politics. Republicans and Democrats agree on very little – and when they do, it often is in the shared belief that they have little in common. Yet the gulf that separates Republicans and Democrats sometimes obscures the divisions and diversity of views that exist within both partisan coalitions – and the fact that many Americans do not fit easily into either one. Republicans are divided on some principles long associated with the GOP: an affinity for businesses and corporations, support for low taxes and opposition to abortion. Democrats face substantial internal differences as well – some that are long-standing, such as on the importance of religion in society, others more recent. For example, while Democrats widely share the goal of combating racial inequality in the United States, they differ on whether systemic change is required to achieve that goal. These intraparty disagreements present multiple challenges for both parties: They complicate the already difficult task of governing in a divided nation. In addition, to succeed politically, the parties must maintain the loyalty of highly politically engaged, more ideological voters, while also attracting support among less engaged voters – many of them younger – with weaker partisan ties. Pew Research Center’s new political typology provides a road map to today’s fractured political landscape. It segments the public into nine distinct groups, based on an analysis of their attitudes and values. The study is primarily based on a survey of 10,221 adults conducted July 8-18, 2021; it also draws from several additional interviews with these respondents conducted since January 2020. The four Democratic-oriented typology groups highlight the party’s racial and ethnic diversity, as well as the unwieldy nature of the current Democratic coalition. They include two very different groups of liberal Democrats: Progressive Left and Establishment Liberals. Progressive Left, the only majority White, non-Hispanic group of Democrats, have very liberal views on virtually every issue and support far-reaching changes to address racial injustice and expand the social safety net. Establishment Liberals, while just as liberal in many ways as Progressive Left, are far less persuaded of the need for sweeping change. Two other Democratic-aligned groups could not be more different from each other, both demographically and in their relationship to the party. Democratic Mainstays, the largest Democratic-oriented group, as well as the oldest on average, are unshakeable Democratic loyalists and have a moderate tilt on some issues. Outsider Left, the young-

AT A GLANCE This is the Pew Research Center’s eighth political typology since 1987. It is the first typology conducted on Pew Research Center’s nationally representative American Trends Panel, which provides the benefit of a large sample size and the ability to include a wealth of other political data for the analysis, including the Center’s validated voter study.

to be completely rebuilt. Progressive Left and Outsider Left are far more likely than the two other Democratic groups to say systemic change is needed to combat racial bias. Democrats prefer bigger government – but how big?

est typology group, voted overwhelmingly for Joe Biden a year ago and are very liberal in most of their views, but they are deeply frustrated with the political system – including the Democratic Party and its leaders. The four Republican-oriented groups include three groups of conservatives: Faith and Flag Conservatives are intensely conservative in all realms; they are far more likely than all other typology groups to say government policies should support religious values and that compromise in politics is just “selling out on what you believe in.” Committed Conservatives also express conservative views across the board, but with a somewhat softer edge, particularly on issues of immigration and America’s place in the world. Populist Right, who have less formal education than most other typology groups and are among the most likely to live in rural areas, are highly critical of both immigrants and major U.S. corporations. Ambivalent Right, the youngest and least conservative GOPaligned group, hold conservative views about the size of government, the economic system and issues of race and gender. But they are the only group on the political right in which majorities favor legal abortion and say marijuana should be legal for recreational and medical use. They are

also distinct in their views about Donald Trump – while a majority voted for him in 2020, most say they would prefer he not continue to be a major political figure. The only typology group without a clear partisan orientation – Stressed Sideliners – also is the group with the lowest level of political engagement. Stressed Sideliners, who make up 15 percent of the public but constituted just 10 percent of voters in 2020, have a mix of conservative and liberal views but are largely defined by their minimal interest in politics. Here are the main findings from the new political typology: Racial injustice remains a dividing line in U.S. politics Perhaps no issue is more divisive than racial injustice in the U.S. Among the four Republican-oriented typology groups, no more than about a quarter say a lot more needs to be done to ensure equal rights for all Americans regardless of their racial or ethnic background; by comparison, no fewer than about three-quarters of any Democratic group say a lot more needs to be done to achieve this goal. However, Democrats differ over whether the changes to ensure equal rights for all can be achieved by working within the current system, or whether most laws and institutions need

There are much bigger divides between parties than within them on opinions about the size of government. Democratic-aligned groups overwhelmingly prefer a bigger government providing more services; GOP groups, by similar margins, favor smaller government. But when asked if government services should be greatly expanded from current levels, Democrats are divided: A clear majority of Progressive Left (63 percent) favor greatly expanding government services, compared with about a third in other Democratic-oriented groups. Economic policy – including taxes – divides the GOP. As noted, Populist Right diverge sharply from traditional GOP positions with their very negative views of corporations; just 17 percent say most corporations make a fair profit, which places this conservative group much closer to Democratic groups than to their Republican counterparts. And a majority of Populist Right (56 percent) favor raising taxes on household incomes above $400,000, as do 42 percent of Ambivalent Right (and substantial majorities in all Democratic-aligned groups). Republicans’ complicated views of Trump The Republican-oriented typology groups each supported Trump by wide margins in 2020.

Yet the survey shows substantial differences among GOP groups over Trump’s future political role. In two of the four groups – Faith and Flag Conservatives and Populist Right – majorities want Trump to remain a major political figure and run for president again in 2024. And only among Populist Right does a clear plurality view Trump as the best president of the past 40 years. Among other Republican-aligned groups, more either view Ronald Reagan as the best recent president (Committed Conservatives, Ambivalent Right), or are divided between Reagan and Trump (Faith and Flag Conservatives). … Is there a ‘middle’ in politics today? Surveys by Pew Research Center and other national polling organizations have found broad support, in principle, for a third major political party. Yet the typology study finds that the three groups with the largest shares of self-identified independents (most of whom lean toward a party) – Stressed Sideliners, Outsider Left and Ambivalent Right – have very little in common politically. Stressed Sideliners hold mixed views; Ambivalent Right are conservative on many economic issues, while moderate on some social issues; and Outsider Left are very liberal on most issues, especially on race and the social safety net. What these groups do have in common is relatively low interest in politics: They had the lowest rates of voting in the 2020 presidential election and are less likely than other groups to follow government and public affairs most of the time. (To view the full report, visit https://pewrsr.ch/3qsd7xW.)

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The New Tri-State Defender

November 11 - 17, 2021

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RELIGION

National Donor Sabbath a time of hope for those waiting for organs by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

All on a First Sunday ...

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

For Tremetrius Barnes, National Donor Sabbath is a very special time of the year. “Everyone, no matter what your religion, is asked to be an organ donor,” said Barnes, recipient of a kidney transplant 22 years ago. “People get a second chance at life because someone in death gave them new life. We hope this November many in the Black community, will consider becoming organ donors.” National Donor Sabbath this year will be observed Friday through Sunday (Nov. 12-13). Faith leaders of all denominations and systems of belief are encouraged to talk about organ donation. “Donating tissue and organs is so critical, especially for people in our community,” said Telisa Franklin, multi-cultural relations coordinator for the Mid-South Transplant Foundation. “I have been fortunate enough to have four family members who have benefited from a transplant.” African Americans make up the largest group of minorities in need of an organ transplant, according the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health (HSSOMH). The HSSOMH listed, among other facts, that: ■ The number of organ transplants performed on Blacks in 2020 was 27.7 percent of the number of Blacks currently waiting for a transplant, and the number of transplants performed on whites was 47.6 percent of the number currently waiting. ■ While 28.5 percent of the total candidates currently waiting for transplants are Blacks, they comprised 12.9 percent of organ donors in 2020. Barnes can remember as early as 3 years old taking special medication and frequent trips back and forth to the doctor. “Too much protein was being spilled in my urine from a very small child,” said Barnes. “That lasted all the way to adulthood. And one day, I was either 20 or 21, welts began to form all over my body, as if someone had whipped me. That is when I learned my kidney was failing. I went on dialysis.” Otherwise, Barnes was essentially healthy. The better a person’s health, the better their candidacy for a successful organ transplant. “I would encourage other people when I came in for dialysis,” said Barnes. “Many were so much sicker than I was, and some had been on the list for a kidney transplant for years. God was very kind to me. I was only listed for about six to nine months before a great match for me was available.” The donor was a man in Portland, Oregon, who had signed up to donate two kidneys, liver and pancreas.

The Rev. Marvin Mims and St. Mark Baptist Church had a busy first Sunday, including a baby christening and an opportunity to get COVID-19 booster shots after the morning service. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley)

Tremetrius Barnes, with her sons Artavius Veasey and Reginald Smith Jr. (Courtesy photo) Barnes said she was not told the age or race of the donor, but she was aware that African-American donors make better matches for African-American Telisa patients. Franklin The day of Barnes’ transplant was May, 24, 1999. She is extremely active today and leads a pretty normal life. “I no longer needed dialysis three times a week, and I thank God for that,” said Barnes. “Organ matches for very sick patients cannot be made unless people consider making that generous gift, in the event of their death. I will always be grateful to the gentleman in Portland, who decided to be an organ donor, whoever he was, whatever his race.” The disorder Barnes had was hereditary, and her older son, Artavius Veasey, also suffered with kidney failure. When Veasey was a young teen, his own father gave him a kidney. Veasey is now 31. Barnes’ younger son, Reginald Smith Jr., wanted to be an organ and tissue donor to honor his mother. Barnes had no idea Smith would become an organ donor at age 24. “My son, Reginald, was in a car accident on June 3, in 2018,” said Barnes. “He was only 24. I told them they could take everything. So, we donated everything he had. In his death, he helped 67 people with donated organs and tissue. What a great legacy, that a part of him lives on in 67 people.” Franklin said all churches, synagogues, and mosques are being asked to encourage members to take a new look at being an organ and tissue donor. “Sometimes, people of certain racial or ethnic backgrounds will make the best matches for those sharing the same background. This weekend is a great opportunity to be a lifesaver.” (To register a decision to be an organ, eye and tissue donor, visit MidSouthTransplant.org. For more information about National Donor Sabbath, visit www.donatelife.net/ nds, or call 901-328-4438.)

‘A change in scenery’ … The Rev. Terry Mackey, pastor of Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church in Phoenix, Arizona, preached at the Memphis Baptist Ministerial Association meeting last Tuesday (Nov. 9). Drawing upon Psalms 23, his topic was “A change in scenery.” He is the brother of the Rev. Eugene Mackey, who pastors Lilly of the Valley Baptist Church here in Memphis. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

The New Tri-State Defender

November 11 - 17, 2021

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TENNESSEE

Tennessee NAACP moves to address education funding

The Education Committee of the Tennessee NAACP plans to host a series of trainings, focus groups, town hall meetings and data collection to gather input on Education Funding in the state. Currently, Tennessee Schools are funded using the Basic Education Program (BEP) model that was passed by the General Assembly in 1992. According to the Tennessee NAACP, the formula has proven to be very complicated and has failed to provide equitable funding needed to insure that every child in the state receives a high quality education. The group asserts the following: • The current TN Education Funding Formula (BEP) is inequitable and overly complex. • Trusted voices in education, business and civic leadership are best positioned to align and encourage policymakers to act. • Decision makers are more likely to be responsive to wisdom from within their communities.

• The state’s resource allocation funding model resources are distributed based on the number of teaching positions rather than assigning weights or dollar values based on certain criteria! • Tennesseans have overwhelmingly identified school funding as the single most important priority for improving education. (Source: U.S. Education Spending Statistics and U.S. Census Bureau)

Lawmakers met behind closed doors for hours after manufacturers including Ford Motor Co. — for whom lawmakers had just approved an economic development package for a massive new Tennessee electric vehicle and battery production project — opposed the limitations on business mask mandates.

The Tennessee NAACP is seeking community input as it focuses on the needs of students in North, West, South and West Tennessee. The group will provide training on the current BEP formula and how it works, as well as training on “How Schools Are Funded.” For more information, contact Gloria Sweet-Love, president of the Tennessee State Conference NAACP at 731-660-5580; email: Email:tnnaacp3@bellsouth.net.

A wide-reaching bill strictly limiting what governments and companies can require to address the COVID-19 pandemic now Gov. Bill Lee’s commitment to sign it. Lee – shown here in Oak Ridge celebrating the future home of the Enhanced Technology & Training Center – had not weighed in on the bill directly until Wednesday. (Photo: Twitter)

In this Aug. 28, 2019 file photo, death row inmate Abu-Ali Abdur’Rahman attends a hearing in Nashville. A Tennessee judge has resentenced the death row inmate to life in prison for the second time in two years after finding that his trial was marred by racism during jury selection. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)

Tennessee death row inmate resentenced after racism claim by Travis Loller Associated Press

NASHVILLE – A judge on Tuesday resentenced a Tennessee death row inmate to life in prison for the second time in two years, after finding the man’s trial was marred by racism during jury selection. In his order, Judge Monte Watkins vacated the conviction of AbuAli Abdur’Rahman (ah-BOO’-ahLEE’) (AHB’-dur-RAK’-mahn) after finding his Constitutional right to a fair trial had been violated. Then the trial court judge accepted a plea agreement in which Abdur’Rahman pleaded guilty to charges of murder, attempted murder and armed robbery for which he received three consecutive life sentences, according to the court order. If the resentencing is not challenged, Abdur’Rahman will spend the rest of his life in prison but without the threat of execution. Abdur’Rahman was originally sentenced to die in 1987 for the murder of Patrick Daniels, who was stabbed to death. Norma Jean Norman was also stabbed but survived. The stabbing took place in Norman’s house while her two young daughters, Katrina and Shawanna, huddled in a back bedroom. The state Attorney General’s Office could still appeal Abdur’Rah-

man’s resentencing. That’s what happened in 2019, the first time Watkins threw out Abdur’Rahman’s death sentence. The 2019 resentencing came after Abdur’Rahman, who is Black, petitioned to reopen his case, presenting evidence that prosecutors at his trial treated Black potential jurors differently from white potential jurors. His attorneys eventually signed an agreement with District Attorney Glenn Funk to reduce his sentence in return for Abdur’Rahman agreeing to drop any future appeals. At the time, Katrina and Shawanna Norman said they were relieved that the legal manuverings were finally over. In an unusual move, the state Attorney General’s Office appealed, arguing that Watkins didn’t have the authority to modify Abdur’Rahman’s sentence based merely on an agreement with the district attorney. The Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals agreed. It said Watkins could review the petition again but ordered him to follow procedures outlined in the appeals court’s decision. That order set the stage for Tuesday’s do-over. A spokesperson for the Attorney General’s Office said in an email that prosecutors are reviewing Watkins’ order and “considering next steps.”

Gov. Lee plans to sign bill to limit COVID rules

by Jonathan Mattise

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

NASHVILLE – Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee said Wednesday he plans to sign a wide-reaching bill strictly limiting what governments and companies can require to address the COVID-19 pandemic, despite opposition from prominent business interests. The Republican told reporters “there are some issues we need to work through” with the legislation, but his signature will enact the changes as lawmakers passed them, putting them in effect immediately. Major restrictions would largely bar governments and businesses from requiring proof of COVID-19 vaccinations, and only let public entities — including schools — require masks due to COVID-19 in rare, dire public health scenarios. Lee, who is up for reelection next year, had not weighed in on the bill directly until Wednesday, using it to criticize President Joe Biden’s requirement for workers at larger employers to get a COVID-19 vaccine by Jan. 4 or face rigorous COVID-19 testing, which a federal appeals court has paused for now amid legal challenges. The state law will conflict with that requirement, sparking headaches for businesses that can face lawsuits under the law if someone feels slighted by a company’s vaccination requirement. “We want to make sure that the particulars of this legislation are the appropriate ones, but on balance, I agree with what’s in the package, which is why I plan to sign it,” Lee said. Republican lawmakers passed the bill after calling themselves into a

three-day COVID-19 session last month because Lee declined to do so. Lawmakers met behind closed doors for hours after manufacturers including Ford Motor Co. — for whom lawmakers had just approved an economic development package for a massive new Tennessee electric vehicle and battery production project — opposed the limitations on business mask mandates. In the dark of the night, Republicans relented and carved private businesses out of stringent mask restrictions. Leaders of two influential business groups said they let the governor know their concerns but were not lobbying for a veto. Tennessee lawmakers can easily override vetoes, and Lee has not vetoed anything in office. Instead, they are hoping to make their case for changes during the annual legislative session that begins in January. Lee specifically mentioned a need to change a provision about visitors to COVID-19 patients in hospitals. Hospitals would be required during the COVID-19 pandemic to allow at least one family member to stay with a patient who does not have and is not showing symptoms of COVID-19 or another virus or communicable disease. Lee said his understanding is that the intent was to limit that visitation change to only end-of-life COVID-19 situations. He also mentioned his priority for keeping the state in charge of workplace safety regulation, since federal counterparts can take over a state’s program if the state is not being at least as stringent as what the federal government requires. The governor defended plans to sign a bill opposed by industry interests, saying Tennessee is “one of

the most business friendly states in America.” He said businesses are obligated to share their concerns with lawmakers and he promised to “work with them to make sure that we have the right outcomes.” Leaders of the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the state’s National Federation of Independent Business chapter are specifically troubled that the bill is enforced by allowing businesses and other entities to be sued. There’s also concern about what constitutes an employer’s adverse action that triggers cause to sue. For instance, the bill allows entertainment venues to accept proof of vaccination instead of a negative COVID-19 test result. But it’s unclear whether companies can require regular testing of employees without risking a lawsuit. Republican legislative leaders have defended what passed. A spokesperson for House Speaker Cameron Sexton, for one, has said the leader “disagrees with the direction NFIB and Tennessee Chamber is requesting.” Jim Brown, director of NFIB’s state chapter, described the special session dust-up between businesses and lawmakers over the bill as “water under the bridge.” “We’re grateful to Gov. Lee and lawmakers who are telling us they’re open to hear the concerns about the legislation and how those can be addressed in January,” Brown said. The bill also could set off a wave of government entities and businesses who contact the state comptroller seeking exemptions to vaccine or mask mandate bans. The bill requires them to show they would lose federal funding by complying with the state law. Other groups, including health care facilities, are already exempted out.

COMMUNITY The New Tri-State Defender, November 11 - 17, 2021, Page 7

County Commission sets new district boundary lines

Mid-South Coliseum artwork reflects fatherdaughter magic by Liaudwin Seaberry Jr.

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

From a young age, Memphis textile and graphic artist Theo James knew what his career focus would be centered around – the arts. “I was that kid that would be sitting in the corner drawing my favorite cartoon characters or doing something of that nature,” James said, recalling his start in the art industry. From that point on, James began patterning his airbrush style of art, perfecting his craft. From styling T-shirts in his neighborhood to establishing his own art business, his wisdom and experience has allowed him to modernize his artistic techniques, while still applying the methods he became known for. James’s daughter, Nisa Williams, a senior at Crosstown High School, took after her father and has developed her artistic skills, progressing with advice from both her father and her classes at school. At the behest of the Coliseum Coalition, advocates for the revitalization of the legendary Mid-South Coliseum, James and Williams collaborated over the summer, painting six 15-by15 feet murals. The artwork, located on the outside of the Coliseum, was completed by the end of summer. The murals represent Memphis culture, talent, justice, community, passion and imagination. For James, the project has helped put the bow on a more than 30-year career in a way he couldn’t have foreseen. “I would have never thought that I would get a chance to work on a project with my daughter of this nature, and it’s certainly been a blessing for me to have done that,” James said. Despite growing up around the arts, Williams insisted her passion for art was organic and that she chose to pursue this pathway herself. “You would think that my dad pushed me into the arts, but from a young age, I pursued it myself. There was no pressure from my father to go down the same pathway as him.” Williams became more motivated when she went on a Civil Rights Movement for Education trip in New York City. As a result, she and a few classmates at Crosstown High designed a few murals around the school, catching the eye of Marvin Stockwell, a member of the Coliseum Coalition. With funding from the coalition, Williams and her father went to work carving out the layout for the Coliseum project. Despite the size of the murals, Williams knew that her father could fill in the holes she

by James Coleman

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Theo James and his daughter, Nisa Williams, collaborated over the summer and painted six, 15-x-15 feet murals outside the Mid-South Coliseum. (Courtesy photos)

missed. That knowledge energized her to keep pushing forward. Her determination surprised James. “There were times that I felt like saying ‘Ok, we can complete a few more strokes and we will be done for the day.’ but Nisa would want to keep going,” James said. “She inspired me at times, and I think that we worked really well off one another.” For Williams, the project represents the beginning of her art goals and aspirations. She wants to attend art school, and the Coliseum project played a huge role in confirming that for her. “Being able to work with my dad and making something as special as we did makes me feel really good and I am looking to producing more art in the future.”

District lines are set for the next decade after Shelby County Commissioners approved new commission district boundaries on an 8-5 vote during a special-called commission Monday (Nov.8). While the approved final district maps did not sit well with some commissioners, the maps, because of amendments approved Monday, settled some of the contentious issues lingering over the plan approved last week, including: ■ Keeping all of the Collierville precincts within the Collierville-based District 2 and restored a Germantown precinct to District 4. ■ Preventing Democratic commissioner Michael Whaley and Republican commissioner Brandon Morrison from having to run in against each other in a redrawn District 13 under a plan the commission approved last week. Republican commissions still had concerns that the new district maps could yield Democrats a 9-4 majority on the commission over the next decade. The districts maps have to be redrawn every 10 years to reflect population changes caused by new Census. The new maps take effect January 1. The county general election is Aug. 4. Party primaries for the general election are May 3. “This is basically the same map we had before with a few changes that were brought forth in the last meeting (Nov.1),” said Darrick Harris, project leader for redistricting. “Basically, we moved what looks like one precinct per district based on some questions and concerns that came up at the last meeting.” The amended version of map 4a3 also creates a new district for Cordova, which has grown in population since the last census. Many of the changes concerned placement of voting precincts. In addition to restoring Collierville 7 to District-2, it also returned Germantown 4 to District-4. It also moves portions of former District-13 into District-4 to create another precinct. Furthermore, a precinct is moved to both District-7 and District-8, respectively. “In terms of the overall map, it took the deviation from 4a3, I think, from six percent to seven percent. The changes were primarily

one precinct, I think at the most two precincts within the changes,” said Harris. Like the previous meeting, Morrison pushed for another selection. After objecting to the “seismic shift” created by 4a3, she motioned her preferred choice, Map 4, to be voted on. “I truly believe it is a non-partisan map. It represents the change in population and keeps our communities intact. I believe it’s likely to result in a similar makeup for the commission. I think it’s a good attempt at a nonpartisan map resulting from the population shift,” said Morrison. Fellow commissioner Tami Sawyer, who has announced she will not seek a second term, countered, accusing the map of being the product of a political outfit known as Caissa Public Strategy. Sawyer said the company, which has offices in Memphis and the nation’s capital, markets itself as “nonpartisan” while running campaigns for politicians, typically Republicans. Sawyer continued, “Let’s not throw the word nonpartisan around today and keep acting like there’s only one nonpartisan person on this body, when we all take turns voting what’s in the best interest. “Some of us vote with the party when it benefits us and then pretend to be nonpartisan when it doesn’t. Caissa isn’t nonpartisan.” Other criticisms were more fundamental. Commissioner Van Turner Jr. pointed out that Map 4 hadn’t been fully vetted and lacked precinct numbers, among other omissions. “It doesn’t give Cordova, which has more than enough to have its own district, its own district,” said Turner. Lack of attention to detail further doomed Morrison’s pitch for Map 4. “Without all that information to where I can see all the precincts, I can’t support option four. There’s no data here for me to look at. I just see a map with lines...districts numbered with no precincts,” piled on Commissioner Eddie Jones. Morrison justified her choice, saying it was created by “a resident of Cordova.” “With all respect to my colleagues, I see the population data for every single district,” she further defended. After the vote on Map 4 failed to win twothirds majority, Sawyer motioned to suspend the rules to prevent the need for a fourth reading on Map 4a3, which was seconded by Whaley. It passed after overcoming Morrison’s objection.

GOOD FOR YOU!

Hamilton seniors embrace TSU scholarship offer All Shelby County Schools seniors in the Class of 2022 with a 3.5 GPA or higher have an academic home at Tennessee State University, if they chose.

NaCatron Toy is the captain of the Hamilton High School majorette squad. She has served as a member of the squad since ninth grade. She enjoys hairstyling and dancing and plans to major in business at TSU. She aspires to open her own hair salon one day.

Hope Eaton is a strong-minded, trustworthy and kind student. Her hobbies include watching Marvel comics and cooking. In her spare time, she enjoys taking care of her dog. Hope has been a member of the Hamilton High School Marching Band since the ninth grade. In college, she plans to major ins psychology and become a therapist. Photos by Shirley Jackson)

Five Hamilton High School seniors fitting that bill have decided to pursue their education at the historic HBCU (historically Black college and universities).

Nivea Ayers is reaching for success. Family and friends describe her as optimistic, easy-going and relentless. A member of the National Honor Society, she enjoys watching movies, spending time with family/friends and shopping. Her aspiration is to become a pharmaceutical pharmacist, with the long-term goal of opening her own pharmacy.

Del’Tyana Carter has her sights set on becoming a traveling hurse and help people all over the nation. She volunteers at two residential elderly care facilities, where she helps with clerical work and reads the Bible to residents. Her hobbies are shopping, watching action movies and trying new restaurants whenever she travels. Ambitious yet tranquil, she lives by Proverbs 3:15. Her motto: Be at peace and not in pieces.”

Javon Hurt enjoys listening and playing music. As a small boy, he plucked at guitar strings, fingered piano keys and tapped away on the drums in his grandmother’s living room. At 12, he began composing melodies. When he turned 14, he started learning more about music production, artworks and how to play almost every instrument he touched in the marching band. He also enjoys the creativity of graphic designing. He plans to major in music production and/ or music business.

The New Tri-State Defender

November 11 - 17, 2021

NEWS

Page 8

CLASSIFIEDS NOTICE TO BIDDERS Shelby County Government has issued Sealed Bid number I000699, FY 2022 Shelby County Asphalt Paving Project - South Section. Information regarding this Bid is located on the County’s website at www.shelbycountytn. gov . At the top of the home page, click on the dropdown box under “Business”, Click on “Purchasing” and “Bids” to locate the name of the above described Sealed Bid. SEALED BID I000699 DUE DATE DECEMBER 14, 2021 2:15 PM (CST) (SB-I000699) FY 2022 Shelby County Asphalt Paving Project South Section All bids will be opened and read via teleconference by Shelby County Government at the time mentioned above. Please use the following information to join the bid opening:

“BLACK AND MISSING” includes wrenching testimony from the families and loved ones of missing women, from activists and volunteers with their own stories of loss to law officers and historians with first-hand experience in this field.

HBO set to debut ‘BLACK AND MISSING’ series NNPA Newswire The four-part documentary series “BLACK AND MISSING,” by multiple Emmy winner Geeta Gandbhir and award-winning documentarian, journalist, author, and activist Soledad O’Brien, follows sisters-in-law and Black and Missing Foundation founders Derrica and Natalie Wilson as they fight an uphill battle to bring awareness to the Black missing persons cases that are marginalized by law enforcement and national media. The series, which was three years in the making, takes on new urgency given the renewed national conversation on “missing White woman syndrome.” “BLACK AND MISSING” debuts back-toback episodes Tuesday, November 23 (7 p.m.9 p.m. (CT), with the final two episodes airing back-to-back on Wednesday, November 24 at the same time. All four episodes of the series will debut on HBO and will be available to stream on HBO Max. Haunted by these stories of vanished loved ones and driven by the need for attention and assistance for these forgotten women, former law enforcement officer Derrica and public

relations expert Natalie operate a grassroots organization that raises awareness in communities, alerts media outlets to the plight of thousands of women and children and urges police departments to allocate more resources to this scourge. Cases of missing Black people remain unresolved four times longer than those of White people. “BLACK AND MISSING” pulls back the curtain to explore how systemic behaviors and attitudes stem from centuries of deeply rooted racism. The series also exposes the stark disparity in the media coverage of White and Black missing persons. The intimate look at Derrica and Natalie’s personal crusade to locate missing Black people also highlights stories of hope and closure as the Black and Missing Foundation contributes to the resolution of several high-profile missing persons cases. The Black and Missing Foundation works in several ways to change the narrative surrounding missing Black people, providing volunteers for work on the ground, and serving as an important advocacy platform to help bring these stories to light.

By keeping these stories and the missing in the news media, Derrica and Natalie put increased pressure on police departments to keep cases open and active. “BLACK AND MISSING” includes wrenching testimony from the families and loved ones of missing women, from activists and volunteers with their own stories of loss to law officers and historians with first-hand experience in this field. Participants include John Walsh, founder of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children; Vince Warren, executive director of the Center for Constitutional Rights; Dr. Renee Murrell, FBI victim specialist; Glenn Kirschner, former Assistant D.A.; Debra Sines, former Assistant U.S. Attorney; Thomas Stack, Baltimore Head of Trafficking; T.J. Smith, Baltimore Chief of Police. HBO Documentary Films’ presents a SO’B Production “BLACK AND MISSING,” directed by Geeta Gandbhir, Nadia Hallgren, Samantha Knowles and Yoruba Richen; supervising producer, Julie Anderson; executive producers, Soledad O’Brien, Geeta Gandbhir, Jo Honig and Patrick Conway. For HBO: executive producers, Nancy Abraham, Lisa Heller and Sara Rodriguez.

Please join the meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone. https://global.gotomeeting.com/ join/762315901 You can also dial in using your phone. (For supported devices, tap a one-touch number below to join instantly.) United States: +1 (312) 757-3121 - One-touch: tel:+13127573121,,762315901# Access Code: 762-315-901 Voluntary Pre-Bid Meeting – All interested respondents are invited to participate in this meeting via teleconference on Wednesday, November 17, 2021 at 9:30 am (CST). Please use the following information to join the pre-bid meeting: Please join the meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone. https://global.gotomeeting.com/ join/484795461 You can also dial in using your phone. (For supported devices, tap a one-touch number below to join instantly.) United States: +1 (872) 240-3412 - One-touch: tel:+18722403412,,484795461# Access Code: 484-795-461 Shelby County is an equal opportunity afﬁrmative action employer, drug-free with policies of non-discrimination on the basis of race, sex, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or military service. By order of LEE HARRIS, MAYOR SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT NOTICE TO BIDDERS Shelby County Government has issued Sealed Bid number I000698, FY 2022 Shelby County Asphalt Paving Project - North Section. Information regarding this Bid is located on the County’s website at www.shelbycountytn. gov . At the top of the home page, click on the dropdown box under “Business”, Click on “Purchasing” and “Bids” to locate the name of the above described Sealed Bid.

The New Tri-State Defender

November 11 - 17, 2021

Page 9

CLASSIFIEDS SEALED BID I000698 DUE DATE DECEMBER 14, 2021 2:00 PM (CST) (SB-I000698) FY 2022 Shelby County Asphalt Paving Project North Section All bids will be opened and read via teleconference by Shelby County Government at the time mentioned above. Please use the following information to join the bid opening: Please join the meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone. https://global.gotomeeting.com/ join/762315901 You can also dial in using your phone. (For supported devices, tap a one-touch number below to join instantly.) United States: +1 (312) 757-3121 - One-touch: tel:+13127573121,,762315901# Access Code: 762-315-901 Voluntary Pre-Bid Meeting – All interested respondents are invited to participate in this meeting via teleconference on Wednesday, November 17, 2021 at 9:30 am (CST). Please use the following information to join the pre-bid meeting: Please join the meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone. https://global.gotomeeting.com/ join/484795461 You can also dial in using your phone. (For supported devices, tap a one-touch number below to join instantly.) United States: +1 (872) 240-3412 - One-touch: tel:+18722403412,,484795461# Access Code: 484-795-461 Shelby County is an equal opportunity affirmative action employer, drug-free with policies of non-discrimination on the basis of race, sex, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or military service. By order of LEE HARRIS, MAYOR SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT

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: Valerie and Kevelin Grimes Tax Parcel #: 03507500000300 Tax Sale #: 701

Price Offered: $1407.00 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 December 10, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Ofﬁce, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Promise Academy Inc. Tax Parcel #: 04205600000300 Tax Sale #: 902 Price Offered: $788.00 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 10:30 a.m. on December 10, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Ofﬁce, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Promise Academy Inc. Tax Parcel #: 04205600000300 Tax Sale #: 902 Price Offered: $788.00

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 10:30 a.m. on December 10, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Ofﬁce, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Promise Academy Inc. Tax Parcel #: 04205600000450 Tax Sale #: 1203 Price Offered: $1500.00 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 December 10, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Ofﬁce, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Promise Academy Inc. Tax Parcel #: 04205600000450 Tax Sale #: 1203 Price Offered: $1500.00 Terms: Cash

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The New Tri-State Defender

November 11 - 17, 2021

Page 10

CLASSIFIEDS 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 December 10, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Ofﬁce, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Promise Academy Inc. Tax Parcel #: 04205900000050 Tax Sale #: 1101 Price Offered: $1275.00 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 10, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Ofﬁce, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Promise Academy Inc. Tax Parcel #: 04205900000050 Tax Sale #: 1101 Price Offered: $1275.00

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 10, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Ofﬁce, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Promise Academy Inc. Tax Parcel #: 04205600000330 Tax Sale #: 1101 Price Offered: $1275.00 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 9:00 a.m. on December 10, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Ofﬁce, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Michael and Deloria Moore Tax Parcel #: 05902900000120 Tax Sale #: 1702

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:

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 2:30 p.m. on December 9, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Ofﬁce, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Michael and Deloria Moore Tax Parcel #: 05903100000800 Tax Sale #: 1702 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

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a Public “Bid Off” at 2:00 p.m. on December 9, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Ofﬁce, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Vincent Meoli Tax Parcel #: 04902400000170 Tax Sale #: 1603 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 1:30 p.m. on December 9, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Ofﬁce, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Candace L. Weaver Tate Tax Parcel #: 02606200000090 Tax Sale #: 1701 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 1:00 p.m. on December 9, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Ofﬁce, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Carolina World Property&#039;s LLC Tax Parcel #: 07611300000260 Tax Sale #: 803 Price Offered: $2250.00 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 10:30 a.m. on December 9, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Ofﬁce, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties

of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Carolina World Property&#039;s LLC Tax Parcel #: 04800500000100 Tax Sale #: 1004 Price Offered: $956.25 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 December 9, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Ofﬁce, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Carolina World Property&#039;s LLC Tax Parcel #: 04800500000100 Tax Sale #: 1004 Price Offered: $956.25 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 December 9, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Ofﬁce, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall

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The New Tri-State Defender

November 11 - 17, 2021

Page 11

CLASSIFIEDS 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: Nice Comfort, LLC Tax Parcel #: 07503300000010 Tax Sale #: 1603 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 9:30 a.m. on December 9, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Ofﬁce, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Shirley Renee Brown Tax Parcel #: 04005200000070 Tax Sale #: 1701 Price Offered: $2500.00 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 9:00 a.m. on December 9, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Ofﬁce, to determine the highest

and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: West Tennessee, LLC Tax Parcel #: 0211180000033C Tax Sale #: 1701 Price Offered: $2000.00 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 13, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Ofﬁce, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Promise Academy, Inc. Tax Parcel #: 04205900000050 Tax Sale #: 1101 Price Offered: $1275.00 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 10, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank

Ofﬁce, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Bryce &amp; Brown Home Builders LLC Tax Parcel #: 07106500000030 Tax Sale #: 504 Price Offered: $1687.50 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 December 13, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Ofﬁce, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort.

a Public “Bid Off” at 2:30 p.m. on December 10, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Ofﬁce, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400 NOTICE OF PROPOSED SALE OF REAL PROPERTY BY SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT Notice is hereby given, pursuant to T.C.A. §67-5-2507, that Shelby County Government has received an Offer to Purchase for the following property: Bryce &amp; Brown Home Builders LLC Tax Parcel #: 07106400000350 Tax Sale #: 406 Price Offered: $1125.00

Bryce &amp; Brown Home Builders LLC Tax Parcel #: 06906900000060 Tax Sale #: 1303 Price Offered: $1125.00 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 December 10, 2021, to be held in the Shelby County Land Bank Ofﬁce, to determine the highest and best offer. The property shall thereafter be sold to the prospective Purchaser making the highest and best offer without warranties of any sort. Shelby County Land Bank 584 Adams Avenue Memphis, TN 38103 (901)222-2400

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The New Tri-State Defender, November 11 - 17, 2021, Page 12

Game one in Merriweather-era starts with Tigers downing Xavier by Liaudwin Seaberry Jr.

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

The anticipated coaching debut of University of Memphis Tigers women’s basketball head coach Katrina Merriweather went smoothly as the Lady Tigers (1-0) sailed to an 84-64 victory over Xavier (0-1) Tuesday (Nov. 9) night at the Elma Roane Fieldhouse. The Tigers were led in the scoring by guard Jamirah Shutes, who notched 15 points and seven rebounds. Fellow guard Emani Jefferson and forward Alana Davis help spur the offense, each scoring 13 points. Merriweather was proud of the entire team’s effort as every member of the team played. With eight players playing at least 13 minutes during the contest, she felt the squad’s depth provided everyone with an opportunity to show their talents and skill level. “A rotation of players on and off the floor keeps players bought into the team for the duration of the sea-

son,” Merriweather told reporters after the victory. “We are still trying to figure out who is going to show up consistently for us during the games, and I think it is too early to make any calls yet.” With 11 players trotting on and off the floor during the first quarter alone, the Lady Tigers grabbed an early 2114 lead at the end of the first quarter behind the efforts of Shutes and junior sharpshooter Madison Griggs. As the second quarter wore on, the Tigers started to expand their lead by feeding off their defense, which produced nine steals in the first half. Forward Lanetta Williams and Jefferson were credited with three steals each in the half, sparking a 43-30 lead heading into intermission. In the third quarter, the Tigers outscored Xavier 24-18. Merriweather continued to lean heavily on her rotations. Nine Tigers players scored for the squad during that third session. In addition, the fresh legs proved vital defensively, as the Tigers limited Xavier to only 38 percent shooting from the field in the third quarter.

With eight players clocking at least 13 minutes, the Tigers routed Xavier 84-64 at the Elma Roane Fieldhouse. (Photo: Liaudwin Seaberry Jr.) Taking a 67-48 lead into the fourth quarter, Merriweather made sure to give her freshman and sophomore players extended playing time in the final 10 minutes. She felt that games like this give her the opportunity to evaluate everyone’s role on the team and who fits where. More important, Merriweather said player development is vital to her team’s success. Throughout the final quarter, freshman Makaiya Brooks, Aliyah Green, and Hannah Riddick found ways to contribute on the floor, whether it be through scoring or re-

bounding. Their efforts did not go unnoticed by Merriweather. “I felt tonight was one of those nights that Makaiya’s shooting, and Aliyah and Hannah’s rebounding skills really served us well late in the game,” she said. “It’s important for us to develop our bench and for us to keep our commitment to every player who shows up every day.” Despite the 20-point victory for the Tigers, Merriweather thinks a few areas can be tidied up. “We have to be more consistent and crisper defensively, and offensively we cannot be turning the ball over 18

times,” she said. “Those things will be fixed with more time together.” Notes: The Tigers as a team shot 46 percent from the field while holding Xavier to under 40 percent. With the number of players who received playing time, Merriweather doesn’t expect chemistry to be an issue. “This is something we have done since I have gotten here, in terms of the rotations, and it has proved to be very effective for us.” The Tigers face Southern Illinois-Edwardsville in their second game of the season. Tip-off is at 2 p.m. Sunday Nov. 14).

Prep football stakes rise for local Round-I winners by Terry Davis

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Eight Memphis area high schools, including Melrose, Central and the Memphis Academy for the Health Sciences (MAHS), are still alive after the first round of the TSSAA football playoffs, with this week bringing another chance to advance toward the state championships. Melrose edged Milan (32-28), MAHS hammered Camden (50-6) and Central outlasted Kenwood (35-29). Whitehaven, Kirby, Ridgeway and Freedom Prep Terry were among the Davis teams whose seasons ended with first-round losses. ‘Very gratifying’ At the half, Melrose trailed 14-8 before dominating the second half. Running back Jermaine Dodson rushed for three touchdowns. “It is very gratifying,” said Melrose head coach Cedric Wilson about moving on to the second round. “The pandemic was a handicap for the entire city. … We were able to get back to work in late April. Eighty percent of the team did not come back to us until the first part of school.” Added to the mix of challenges was the “amount of pressure on those kids to perform at a high level with Orange Mound expectations,” said Wilson, concluding that it “was tough.” Melrose (6-5) next faces undefeated Haywood County (11-0) and Wilson said the Golden Wildcats will

Head coach Cedric Wilson and his five-loss Melrose team next face undefeated Haywood County. (Photo: Cedric Miller) Questionable calls Leading 35-14 at halftime, Central did not score after the break but held on for the six-point win over Kenwood. Jamarious Brooks, a finalist for Mr. Football Class 5A, rushed for 308 yards and scored three touchdowns. He also threw for a touchdown. There were questionable calls near the end of the game that allowed Kenwood to extend drives and to score some late touchdowns. The Central faithful clearly were not too happy with the calls. Central (9-2) has a second-round matchup against Springfield (9-2). So far, the TSSAA Playoffs have been golden for Melrose High School. (Photo: Terry Davis) “have to play a perfect ball game” to advance. “Haywood County is one of the best teams in the state. They have several Division 1 football players on their team. They are senior heavy. We only have 5 seniors on the team.”

The Memphis-area schools still alive and in the hunt for titles are Lausanne, CBHS, Briarcrest, Central, Collierville, Fairley, MAHS and Melrose). Briarcrest, Collierville, Lausanne and MAHS will host games. All games will be played on Friday (Nov. 12) at 7 p.m.

‘A great team win’ MAHS’s 50-to-6 romp over Camden was led by Cameron Miller, a University of Tennessee commit for the next season and a finalist for Mr. Football Class 2A. Miller, who plays multiple positions, including running back, wide receiver and defensive back, rushed for 264 yards. Fellow running back Kumaro Brown piled up 172 yards. “It was a great team win. We were physical up front,” said MAHS head coach Cedric Miller. “They triple

Round 2

Here is the schedule:

Central’s Jamarious Brooks was too much to handle for Kenwood. (Photo: Terry Davis) team Cam (Cameron) and we just ran down their throats. My offensive line did a great job.”

MAHS (10-1) next will host Huntingdon (9-2).

2A – Fairley (9-2) at Westview (101); Huntington (9-2) at MAHS (10-1) 4A – Melrose (6-5) at Haywood (11-0) 5A – Central (9-2) at Springfield (9-2) 6A – Ravenwood (9-2) at Collierville (11-0) DII-AA – BGA (6-5) at Lausanne (8-1) DII-AAA – Christian Brothers (74) at Briarcrest (9-1)