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November 24 - 30, 2022
VOL. 71, No. 47
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Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. sorors Kathy Collins (second from left) and Beverly Anderson (second from right) embrace members of the Amamere Folks Music ‘n’ Dance Ensemble. (Courtesy photo)
AKWAABA…Welcome Home! My journey to the Motherland
by Beverly H. Anderson
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
I was returning home. I left Memphis Sept. 23, a Friday, for a 10-hour flight, 12-day experience to Ghana, West Africa. My homecoming came via the Sankofa Tour, an international service trip of the International Women of Color committee of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. This was my birthday gift to myself. I did not know this would be a welcome home experience. Day One, a welcome celebration We arrived in Accra, Ghana around 9 a.m. It is Ghana’s capital and largest city. It is located on the Atlantic coast and has a popu-
Evangelist Louise D. Patterson: “You’ve got to look past where you are and see the future. … we live by faith … day by day. It’s a journey. … I don’t care how long it looks like the journey is … pause if you must, … but don’t stop.” (Photo: Patterson Family)
COGIC’s Louise Dowdy Patterson – ‘Mother Patterson’ to many – dead at 84 by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell
lation of about 282,000 people. Some 160 members of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, family and friends were met with music and dance from the Amamere Folks Music ‘n’ Dance Ensemble. It was a day of relaxation and reception. Day two, sinking by feet into the soil of the motherland The day started with a visit to the last home of noted African-American scholar, author, historian, and Civil Rights pioneer Dr. W.E.B. Du Bois. His home is now a museum, highlighting the life of Dr. Du Bois. His body is enshrined there and beside it is the urn and
SEE GHANA ON PAGE 2
Frayser boutique’s timely opening delivers Thanksgiving miracle for family of twin boys by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
Friday’s grand opening of the Regroup Upscale Thrift Boutique was, well, grand. But for one Frayser family, it marks an extraordinary, new start for the Johnson-Crump household. “I started out homeless more than 20 years ago,” said Patrice Johnson, a member of Pursuit of God Transformational Center. “Pastor Ricky Floyd allowed me to move in with his family. I had a young son, and we had nowhere to go.” Floyd, and his wife, Sheila, were known in the Frayser community for helping families who were experiencing the hardest of times. “This very house I now live in is the very house I came to for help,” said Johnson. “I am raising 15-year-old twin boys, and something very wonderful has happened with the opening of this thrift store. Both my boys have jobs after school there. They are so excited. And on Tuesday, they get to work all day because they are out for the holiday week. They were awake by
SEE BOUTIQUE ON PAGE 3
$1.00
Pastor Ricky Floyd addresses an eager crowd that gathered in Frayser for the ribbon-cutting of Regroup Upscale Thrift Boutique. Floyd’s wife, Sheila Floyd, holds the scissors used by the couple to slice the ribbon. (Courtesy photo)
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
Evangelist Louise Dowdy Patterson, the widow of long-time Church of God in Christ (COGIC) Presiding Bishop, the late Gilbert E. Patterson, died Sunday evening, surrounded by loved ones. Mrs. Patterson was 84. As president and CEO of Bountiful Blessings Ministries, Inc., Mrs. Patterson served as the general manager of WBBP (1480AM) radio station and president of Podium Records. She authored the book, “A Rare Pearl.” A stream of social media posts with photos, reflections, and memories attested to Mrs. Patterson’s ability to connect with the many women, children, and men who endearingly called her “Mother Patterson.” “Lady Patterson was the embodiment of grace, femininity, and spirituality,” said Bishop David Hall, member of the COGIC General Board and pastor of Temple Church of God in Christ. “As a couple, Bishop G.E. and his wife complemented each other so perfectly. They were the quintessential power couple. Her presence will be missed.” Mrs. Patterson had fallen ill just before COGIC’s convocation earlier this month and was unable to attend. Before her brief illness, she was in regular attendance at worship services and church other activities. On Sunday evening, just after 6 p.m., on Nov. 20, Mrs. Patterson died in the presence of loved ones, who had the opportunity to say “goodbye,” according to a family member. “We were all shocked and saddened by the passing of Mother Louise Patterson,” said Bishop Brandon Porter, COGIC General Board member, and pastor of Greater Community Temple Church of God in Christ. “She will always be a signature personality in all of our hearts. “Mother Patterson was dearly loved by the men and women in the Church of God in Christ. She had a unique way of connecting with women of all ages concerning real-life issues.” Recalling how “Mother Patterson would often share her personal testimony and hu-
SEE PATTERSON ON PAGE 3
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The New Tri-State Defender
November 24 - 30, 2022
Page 2
NEWS
SOME THINGS I OBSERVED IN GHANA • Slaves are referred to as enslaved Africans. • African Americans are “welcomed home” and considered to be bringing the spirits of the ancestors back home. • Villages are communities. Twi is the general language, but villages may have their own dialect. • Marketing or selling is critical to the economy. EVERY stop there were sellers selling everything from food to fabric to artifacts to electronics. • People are referred to relationally such as mama, papa, granny, auntie. We are all related. • Goats and chickens are domesticated and walk the streets just like dogs and cats do here. • Basic meal consists of rice, green salad, fresh fruit (pineapple, watermelon, and papaya), plantain, and fresh fruit juice. I saw no overweight Africans. • Basic modes of transportation besides walking, are cars and mopeds. Drivers constantly blow their horns at pedestrians and other motorists. Traffic was congested and looked like there may be an accident at any minute…but there wasn’t. • Family is important. • I felt safe!
GHANA
CONTINUED FROM FRONT ashes of his second wife. In the front yard of his home, I just had to put my bare feet on the soil of the Motherland! I had to do it. Our next stop was the University of Ghana. Professor Samuel A. Ntewusu delivered a stirring lecture on the history of Ghana and updates on the current political climate of the country. An interesting point: Students are required to take African Studies to graduate. Our last historical stop of the day was Black Star Square. This is where Ghana’s first prime minister and president, Kwame Nkrumah, announced the country’s independence in 1957. We even got a chance to sing backup for a local rap artist who was making a music video there. Day three, empowering women The Women’s Empowerment Conference was hosted in partnership with the Wo Ye Bra (menstrual cycle in Twi) project, a program of the non-profit Infinity Global Empowerment. The Wo Ye Bra project provides entrepreneur training to women in West Africa. The project was started to teach women to make reusable sanitary pads. This is important because school-aged girls would miss up to two weeks of school due to their menstrual cycles. Women in the program have advanced to making other products and being able to provide more for their families. A special highlight for me was an opportunity to present a Basic Business Bookkeeping presentation and facilitate a panel of four of the entrepreneurial women – Anita, Victoria, Salena and Georgina – in the Wo Ye Bra program. Later that evening, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority held the honorary member induction of Samia Nkrumah, daughter of the first president Ghana, the late Kwame Nkrumah, into the sisterhood. Day four, let’s not forget them The Elmina Castle is the oldest castle, where Africans were held and sold into slavery. The Africans were tricked by the Dutch, English, and Portuguese with whiskey, food, and money to convince them that they could make their lives better. The dungeons were dark, smelly, and small. They held up to 1,500 African men and women. We were literally standing on the grounds, where our African ancestors stood. Just above one of the dungeons, was
Day three: A Basic Business Bookkeeping presentation.
Day two: A signed copy of W.E.B. Du Bois’ ‘The Souls of Black Folk.’ the Dutch church, where their scripture, Psalm 132, was posted. Ironic. Emotional. Day five, my personal day of discovery Cape Coast Castle is like Elmina Castle. Dungeon, cells, smells, darkness. We were standing on fortified human waste because there captured Africans had to empty their bodies in the cells. The waste line was knee deep. The Door of No Return was where the Africans exited to be loaded onto the boats that were taking them into slavery, never to return to Africa. The enslaved Africans from this castle were taken to the Caribbeans. My maternal grandfather’s ancestors came into America from the Caribbeans. I was standing on the very ground that my ancestors stood! As we walked back through the Door of Return, we were symbolically returning the spirit of our ancestors “back home.” “I’m not African because I live in Africa. I’m African because Africa lives in me.” Welcome Home! The castle tour ended with the dedication of the Zeta Phi Beta’s Children Library housed at the castle. The local schools ended early so the children could attend the opening. It was a pleasure to see these children sitting and reading books that were donated by sorority members. In addition to the books, Zeta Phi Beta donated laptops to each of the schools who came. The thought of being the in place of my ancestors consumed my thoughts for the rest of the day.
A memorable stop at Afia Kobi Ampem Girls Senior High School in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. (Courtesy photo)
Day six: Slave river site.
Day six, river provides a spiritual return The day’s visit was to the Assin Manso Slave River Site. This is the place where captured Africans were taken to have their last bath before going to the castles. As we entered, an herb was tied around our wrists and cow clay was put on our hands and heads to ward off negative spirits and attract positive ones. We walked the 10-minute trail to the river. Shoes were optional but I chose to walk bare foot. The ground was wet, mostly overgrown trees and brush. Surprisingly, there was a family living on the path. The river was just ahead of us. On the path was a ‘station’ where human waste of the named Africans was categorized by the color of their stools. Once at the river, we were able to step into the water, walk back through the First Bath of Return, again, symbolizing the spiritual return of our ancestors to the Motherland. The water was so cool and felt refreshing. It was truly another emotional and spiritual experience. Day seven, providing service Before the tour, we were allowed to choose a service project. Going to the Afua Kobi Ampem Girls School and the Health Clinic was not my chosen service, but several members and guests visited.
Day six: First Bath of Return.
Day six: A refreshing dip.
Reports were exciting. Zetas distributed donated school supplies and taught in the classrooms. Others brought donated items to stock the health clinic.
Later, Adinkra showed us how dye was made. The African dye makers use bark from a particular tree, pounding it rhythmically and boiling it for days until it becomes a liquid. Hand crafted stamps are used to imprint the fabrics. The bark used for dye making also is used to fight malaria.
Day eight, making Kente prints Another exciting tour day: Our first visit to the Craft Villages and the Bonwire Kente Weaving Centre. It was exciting to see how the beautiful Kente prints that we adore in the States are made manually. I entered the centre and saw about 10 men manually weaving fabric. No machines or electricity, just eye, hand, and foot coordination. Of course, the beautiful pieces were all for sale.
Day nine, celebrating our last day with a cruise A cruise on Volta Lake, the largest manmade lake in the world, was our last full day in Ghana. While cruising, we were treated to food, music, singing, dancing while cruising. The 80-plus-year-old captain is a 49year sea veteran. This was a great ending to a wonderful trip.
The New Tri-State Defender
November 24 - 30, 2022
NEWS
Pursuit of God Transformation Center Pastor Ricky Floyd is proud that all employees of the boutique live, work and worship in Frayser. (Courtesy photo)
BOUTIQUE
CONTINUED FROM FRONT six this morning.” Johnson’s boys, Christian and Kailen Crump, like so many other young people, have waited anxiously for the sixmonth renovation to be completed, and they would start working their first real job. Johnson knew the store would be a symbol of what possibilities exist for Frayser residents to provide opportunities for their own young people. “I have so much to be thankful for this year,” said Johnson. “The Husband Institute has helped me raise my boys to be young gentlemen. They have been at the Institute all these years. Their father died in a car accident when they were only a year old. My pastor and my Pursuit of God Church family have been here with us every step of the way. Only the beginning… Dignitaries joined excited
community residents on Friday, Nov. 18, for a ribbon-cutting ceremony by the store’s visionary, Pastor Ricky Floyd, Pursuit of God Transformation Center. There were speeches and talk of more community investment, as an eager throng of shoppers waited to explore the promising treasures inside. The ReGroup Upscale Thrift Boutique will keep our youth engaged,” said the Rev. Ricky Floyd, senior lead pastor at Pursuit of God Transformation Center at 3759 North Watkins in Frayser. “As they work and learn, they are developing the qualities of character that strengthen their resolve to ward off drugs, sex, and gangs.” “Allowing our young people to help run the store and other businesses in the works, we will not only teach them personal responsibility and marketable job skills, but they will come to understand the principles of wealth-building through entrepreneurship, first-hand.” The Husband Institute and
Patrice Johnson recently graduated from Life Christian University. She is a Navy war veteran and mother of three boys. Her three sons are: Paul Kimble Jr, 24, and her 15-year-old twins, Christian Crump (right) Kailen Crump. (Courtesy photo) I Am She Mentoring” at Pursuit of God also offer career counseling, mentoring and nurturing, along with affirming guidance for at-risk youth, ages 6-17. Stipends will be paid to the young people working as boutique associates. Don’t miss the miracle… In the excitement of shopping and feeling the pride of seeing community young people working to make an honest living, Frayser residents might miss the miracle. “This Thanksgiving, we have been given so many gifts, but there is one gift that most characterizes the marvelous transformation that has happened right before our eyes,” said Johnson. The wonderful plans for additional businesses are great, Johnson said. A spa, a garden to grow and sell vegetables, and other enterprises Floyd said will create additional jobs
Interesting facts learned in Ghana and about the Ghanian people • They are PROUD to be African. • They honor and revere the ancestors through various rituals and ceremonies. • They respect their elders; anyone older than they are. We saw an argument between two men obviously due to trying to sell to the same person. There was no pushing, no weapons, no “hold me back” moves. After about five minutes, the obviously younger man walked away. • The title of Ancestor is given to those who died over the age of 50 AND were respectable members of the communities/villages. • Engagement for marriage is a process that includes indefinite time, background checks by each family, and dowry for the intended bride’s family. Individuals don’t marry; families do. There are no in-law statuses because each family joins to the other. • The royal family line is directly through the mother. Only a direct de-
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scendent of the mother will become the king or the queen. If her descendants marry, their spouses do not become royalty; they are just married to royalty. • Children are named based on the day of the week they were born and after eight days after birth. The ceremonial naming is called an Outdooring because it literally takes place outdoors. Ghanaians have two names: their African name and an official government name. My Akan name would be Amma because I was born on Saturday. • School-aged girls and younger all have exceptionally low haircuts. This is part of the uniform for those girls attending government schools (public schools). Girls who attend private schools can grow their hair. • Don’t take pictures of official workers like guards and police without their permission.
for our young people—all of these are spectacular. “But something has happened after those boutique doors opened,” said Johnson. It wasn’t just my boys, or our household, that this wonder has occurred. We can see it in our children at church, our neighbors in the community. The possibilities have opened up the door to other visions.” Johnson, the twins, and her oldest son, Paul Kimble Jr., will enjoy a bountiful Thanksgiving meal, and they will enjoy being with family like so many others. But things will be different this year. “The Lord has bestowed upon us gifts, priceless, what no amount of money could buy. And this is the miracle. Our children have hope, and I believe they are building courage and self-confidence to dream their dreams as they grow and work. Anything is possible. They have optimism. Thank God, they can see a bright future.”
Evangelist Louise D. Patterson, Temple of Deliverance, 2010. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender)
PATTERSON
CONTINUED FROM FRONT man experiences about life,” Bishop Porter said, “This kind of ministry – transparency – brought hope and trust to the lives of those she ministered to. She will never be forgotten.” Although details concerning the cause of death were not available, those close to the family said Mrs. Patterson’s death was “unexpected.” Bishop Patterson left her in full control of an entity that was incorporated as his personal ministry outreach, separate and apart from Temple of Deliverance Church of God in Christ, which they co-founded. Mrs. Patterson was known for the saying: “G.E. – He brings good things to life.” It was a clever take on a General Electric commercial slogan touting the company’s versatility of products and services. “Since 2007, after the Lord called my… Presiding Bishop Gilbert Earl Patterson home,
Bishop Gilbert E. Patterson, the late presiding bishop of the Church of God in Christ (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender) Mother Patterson continued to keep Bountiful Blessings Inc., G.E. Patterson’s television ministry, and his memory alive,” posted Ezekiel Johnson on Facebook. “I am the preacher I am today because she kept G.E. Patterson on the air…” Final arrangements are pending. R.S. Lewis & Sons has charge.
PERSPECTIVE The New Tri-State Defender, November 24 - 30, 2022, Page 4
My 30-day intro to Egypt: Exhilaration, exhaustion and a ‘Mummy Tummy’ lesson
by Angela Sargent
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
My first 30 days in Egypt were a roller coaster. The adventure began as soon as I arrived at an airport packed with people speaking different languages. I was met by a concierge, who escorted me quickly through customs and baggage claim. Other members of my teaching cohort had mentioned issues with missing and damaged luggage. I was grateful that all four pieces of my luggage arrived with me intact. Next, I located the welcoming staff sent from Metropolitan, the school where I would be teaching for the next two years. Kristle, an amiable American teacher in her third year at Metropolitan, greeted me. Kristle’s job was to welcome all the ex-pats (nonnative residents) and accompany them to their housing quarters or hotel (if an apartment had not been secured). Before arrival, I was assigned an apartment broker to whom I communicated my housing desires. During the entire month of July, I virtually toured apartments and narrowed down the ones I wanted to see once I arrived. Luckily, my top choice was true to what I had seen online. I was able to move in immediately. Kristle accompanied me throughout the entire moving-in process to ensure I was not taken advantage of. She also distributed the settling-in allowance to assist with any basic needs for my new home. One of the perks I learned about being a new ex-pat was that I had free access to a school bus driver for anything school-related that I needed to do during my settling period (1 week). I grabbed sheets, towels, bathroom essentials, and food before calling it a night. I arrived the Sunday before all the new-teacher networking activities began. The first week’s agenda was hectic. The administration of Metropolitan made it very clear that new ex-pats would get a full tour of Egypt’s finest attractions so that we could begin to approach life in Cairo as residents, not tourists. Our first stop was breakfast at the Villa Belle Epoque. It is a beautiful hidden gem in the heart of Maddi, Egypt, where the special features are flowers, pastries, and Turkish coffee. Our next stop was the Cairo Festival City Mall, a 158,000 square meter mall that included an IKEA and the hypermarket Carrefour, a larger version of a supermarket in the States. We were allowed to shop for home furnishings and groceries for the week. It was a very chaotic, albeit productive experience. On Tuesday, we were dazzled by a sunset dinner on the rooftop
The Sphinx in New Giza. (Photos: Angela Sargent/The New Tri-State Defender)
Sunset in New Giza. Welcome to the airport in Cairo.
New ex-pat Angela Sargent (right) and the Metropolitan staff at Andrea ElMariouteya. Angela Sargent’s teaching assignment in Cairo, Egypt is a dream come true for the veteran Memphis teacher. Her experiences are periodically chronicled in The New Tri-State Defender. This is her second account. of the hotel Zamalek in Cairo, Egypt. The chic cosmopolitan restaurant is located along the Nile River and sets the stage for a jaw-dropping light show along the historic river. Wednesday was the Welcome Dinner in New Giza at the breathtaking outdoor restaurant, Andrea El Mariouteya, which overlooks New Cairo. The view gave life to the song “Nights of Egypt” by the Jones Girls. Finally, on Thursday we returned to New Giza to visit the majestic pyramids. We visited the
Pyramid in New Giza. sphinx and had great photo opportunities. These amazing pillars of history are now mere tourist attractions, but the reverence is still very present. The first week proved exhilarating and exhausting. I struggled most with the 8-hour time difference between Memphis and Cairo and with the water filtration system. By day two of teacher orientation, the lack of sleep began to weigh on my body. Our school schedule is very different from in the states;
A view of the Nile from the rooftop of Hotel Zamalek.
Angela Sargent takes her first camel ride. the school day is from Sunday to Thursday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. (GST+2); Friday and Saturday are days of Sabbath. By week three, I was beginning to adjust to my new schedule when I was struck down by what the locals call the “Mummy Tummy” – an illness caused by eating fruits and/or vegetables washed in water sourced from the Nile River. The Nile is home to parasitic flatworms formally known as Schistosoma haematobium. We were warned about this parasite long before arrival; I never even gave it a second thought. Well, after three weeks in Egypt, I decided to try my hand at cooking meals at home. I took an intentional field trip to the hypermarket, excited about my first home-cooked meal in my new residence. I purchased cabbage, carrots, chicken, onion, and veg-
etable wash. I washed and soaked the vegetable as directed on the vegetable wash bottle, or so I thought. The meal was delicious, and I was so proud of my accomplishment. To my surprise, late into the night, the “Mummy Tummy” rose up in me as evidenced by severe cramping and night sweats. (YIKES!) The next five days were what I tagged as my initiation into becoming a true Egypt resident. Follow Angela’s journey in The New Tri-State Defender and online at TSDMemphis. com. (Editorial note: Originally planned as a two-year journey, Angela Sargent’s journey now will be a one-year experience because of budget constraints. Follow her accounts in The New Tri-State Defender.)
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The New Tri-State Defender
November 24 - 30, 2022
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RELIGION
Keeping on, keeping on! … Mt. Pisgah Christian Methodist Episcopal Church celebrated its 142nd anniversary last Sunday (Nov. 20). The theme was “142 Years of Holding Fast to Our Faith and Still Enduring.” The celebration included the presentation of a resolution on behalf of the Memphis City Council to the Rev. Willie Ward Jr., Mt. Pisgah’s pastor. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender)
Historic Collins Chapel CME Church gets a $548,000 boost for preservation project by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
Grants totaling $548,000 recently were awarded to historic Collins Chapel Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, the first African-American congregation established in Memphis. The money came from the African American Civil Rights Grant Program Historic Preservation Fund. “I became Collins Chapel pastor four years ago,” said Elder Bethel Harris. “So, I did not initiate the solicitation of grants. This has been going on for a long time. The funds were just awarded this year. We are planning to start the work sometime in 2023.” Collins Chapel’s roots emanated from disgruntled African-American Methodists all over the South, who had grown weary of the second-class treatment from white counterparts. They had to sit in the back or up in a church’s balcony if they were permitted to enter the church at all for worship service. In Memphis, both slaves and free people of color pooled their resources to build Collins Chapel Church. They were proud that their congregation at that time was still connected with the Methodist Episcopal Church (MEC) denomination. The 181 years of history makes this news more significant, Harris said. The historic church sits at 678 Washington Ave.
“Famous figures and important occasions are connected to Collins Chapel,” said Harris. “Anti-lynching activist Ida B. Wells, “Father of the Blues,” W.C. Handy, and jazz singer Alberta Hunter all worshipped here. “Many civil rights meetings were here. These grants will ensure that the church’s infrastructure is strengthened to stand another 181 years.” Collins Chapel Church has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1991. The African American Civil Rights Grant program is a part of the National Park Service, U.S. Department of Interior. Earlier this year, a Pre-Preservation Planning Grant of about $48,000 was awarded to assess and evaluate the structural deficiencies, as well as identify necessary updates of the church’s ventilation, plumbing, and electrical systems The Physical Preservation Grant of $500,000 was awarded after the preliminary assessments were completed. “On behalf of the First Episcopal District, we are excited about this monumental award to preserve this historic church,” said Presiding Bishop Marvin Frank Thomas Sr. “There is greater cause for celebration as we prepare to mark the 152nd anniversary of the First Episcopal District. What a tremendous blessing.” Collins Chapel boasts an intriguing history. Enslaved people and free people of color constructed a modern, wooden edifice, much like other buildings of its day. However, lightning strikes ignited fires on
Collins Chapel Pastor Bethel Harris: “These grants will ensure that the church’s infrastructure is strengthened to stand another 181 years.” (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender)
First Episcopal District Presiding Bishop Marvin Frank Thomas Sr. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender Archives) two separate occasions. Repairs were made, and the congregation continued to grow and flourish. But a devastating setback demolished the whole structure during the Memphis Massacre (1866) when angry whites plundered, burned African-American structures, and killed 46 community leaders and residents. The city’s African-American community banded together to bury their dead and begin again. No one was ever charged with the arsons
or murders. The 25-year-old congregation of former slaves and free men determined to rebuild Collins Chapel. This time, the structure would be a brick edifice. “Just as those early Christian Methodists continued to hold service, we will continue our regular worship when the renovations begin,” said Harris. “Whether it is somewhere in this building, or in some other structure, we will still meet for service in some location. We give God all the glory as we look to starting the much-needed refurbishments next year.” Thomas said the news is being celebrated at Collins Chapel and throughout the entire First Episcopal District. “We rejoice with Collins Chapel for this tremendous blessing from God,” said Thomas. “We look forward to doing all we can at the First Episcopal District to support the church, so it continues to be a shining light of Christian Methodism throughout Memphis and beyond.”
The mobile food drive was powered by volunteers. (Courtesy photo)
Brown M.B.C., Mid-South Food Bank ‘bless’ 300 families with mobile food drive Special to The New Tri-State Defender In conjunction with the Mid-South Food Bank, Brown Missionary Baptist Church (BMBC) served 300 families ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday during a mobile food drive. Items distributed included fresh chicken and other meats, fresh produce, frozen food
items and fresh bread/pastry items such as muffins, cupcakes and breads. Approximately 50 volunteers of all ages assisted with distributing and collecting registration forms, sorting food items and loading them into vehicles. A team inputted data from the registration forms into the Food Bank’s database. Members of the BMBC parking lot and security team assisted with traffic flow, guiding
clients in and out of the parking lot. “It’s our mission at BMBC to change lives and make a difference,” said BMBC Pastor Bartholomew Orr. “It brings me joy that we could bless 300 families with groceries just in time for Thanksgiving. It’s my prayer that we can bless even more the next time.”
The Brown M.B.C. parking lot was stocked to serve 300 families during the mobile food drive.
The New Tri-State Defender, November 24 - 30, 2022, Page 6
Whitehaven Christmas Parade – Back in stride again! Bowing to safety protocols during the height of the pandemic, the Christmas Parade in Whitehaven had been a noshow since 2019 until last Saturday. Like old times – only
better, many said – the parade unfolded amid chilly tempers and the warm hearts of the Whitehaven community and its supporters.
(Photos by Tyrone P. Easley and Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender)
The New Tri-State Defender
November 24 - 30, 2022
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ENTERTAINMENT
‘Afrofuturism’ is on its way! by Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire
A new exhibition debuting next spring at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) will celebrate Chadwick Boseman’s Black Panther hero costume. “Afrofuturism: A History of Black Futures,” opens on March 24, 2023, and features the late actor’s iconic gear. Black Panther counts as the first superhero of African descent to appear in mainstream American comics, and the film is the first major cinematic production on the character. “Investigating Afrofuturist expression through art, music, activism and more, this exhibition explores and reveals Afrofuturism’s historic and poignant engagement with African American history and popular culture,” Smithsonian officials wrote in a news release. “From the enslaved looking to the cosmos for freedom to popular sci-fi stories inspiring Black astronauts, to the musical influence of Sun Ra, OutKast, P-Funk and more, this exhibition covers the broad and impactful spectrum of Afrofuturism.” Through the 4,300-square-foot temporary exhibition, visitors will view a variety of objects from Afrofuturism pioneers, including Octavia Butler’s typewriter, Nichelle Nichols’ Star Trek uniform as the character Lt. Nyoto Uhura and Nona Hendryx’s spacesuit-inspired costume worn while performing with LaBelle. The exhibition also utilizes select objects to elevate stories that speak to Black liberation and social equality, such as Trayvon Martin’s flight suit from Experience Aviation, and his childhood dream of being an astronaut. “Trayvon Martin’s flight suit tells the story of a dream of space flight ended tragically by earthbound violence,” said Kevin Young, the Andrew W. Mellon Director of the National Museum of African American
Black Panther counts as the first superhero of African descent to appear in mainstream American comics, and the film is the first major cinematic production on the character. For more details about the new exhibition and to sign up for additional updates, visit the museum’s Afrofuturism website. History and Culture. “We are honored to tell more of Trayvon’s story, exploring his love of flight and mechanics and his fondness for science and technology. Afrofuturism charts the joy of a rich, imagined future, often in the face of injustice.” Since its opening in 2016, NMAAHC has supported conversations, collections and initiatives surrounding Afrofuturism. “Afrofuturism: A History of Black Futures” will be on view in the museum’s Bank of America Special Exhibitions Gallery from March 24, 2023, through March 2024. For more details about the new exhibition and to sign up for additional updates, visit the museum’s Afrofuturism website. (Follow Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire senior national correspondent, @StacyBrownMedia.)
Smithsonian African American Museum honors Chadwick Boseman’s Black Panther costume in new exhibit
COMMUNITY The New Tri-State Defender, November 24 - 30, 2022, Page 8
Young Dolph murder defendant gets ‘isolated’ after music drop Arraignment delayed for latest man arrested by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
Criminal Court Judge Lee Coffee revoked the phone privileges of a defendant in the ongoing Young Dolph murder investigation after Coffee learned the man, Justin Johnson, rapped into a jail phone to release a song. Coffee’s action can Tuesday (Nov. 21) after Johnson used his stage name, Straight Drop, to release the song, which was posted on YouTube, and featured lyrics about Johnson’s stay in jail. The judge also announced that Justin Johnson had been placed in “segregation,” or “administrative isolation.” Coffee said all phone privileges are suspended except for phone
calls with his attorney. The action against Justin Johnson was the latest in a string of developments in the investigation into Young Dolph’s (whose real name is Adolph Thornton Jr.) ambush slaying more than a year ago. Friday (Nov. 18), a fourth defendant was arrested after he turned himself in to the police. Jermarcus Johnson, 25, had been indicted for criminal conspiracy to commit first-degree murder. Jermarcus Johnson, Justin Johnson’s half-brother, is accused of aiding in the escape and concealment of accused shooters Justin Johnson and Cornelius Smith, after Thornton was shot. It also was announced Friday that Justin Johnson and Smith had been indicted on an additional charge of
conspiracy. They already were being held on first-degree murder charges. Police also think Jermarcus Johnson facilitated communications between Smith and Justin Johnson after the shooting and facilitated payments to Smith for Dolph’s death. During an initial court hearing Tuesday, Coffee set Jermarcus Johnson’s bail at $300,000. The fourth defendant in the case is Hernandez Govan, who is charged with first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder and conspiracy. His indictment stated the alleged conspiracy started on June 1, 2021. Govan has pleaded not guilty. Young Dolph was ambushed and fatally wounded Nov. 17, 2021 at Makeda’s Homemade Butter Cookies on Airways Boulevard near Ketchum, just north of Interstate 240.
Jermarcus Johnson is accused of aiding in the escape and concealment of the alleged shooters – Justin Johnson and Cornelius Smith – of Memphis rapper Young Dolph. He is Justin Johnson’s half-brother. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender) Assistant District Attorney Paul Hagerman held a brief news conference after Tuesday’s court hearing but disclosed few additional details about the ongoing investigation. In a previous statement, however, Hagerman said in cases of murder
and other serious crimes, multiple arrests do not necessarily mean that all of those arrested will be defendants. “Some will be defendants, and some will be witnesses in the case,” Hagerman told reporters several weeks ago.
Robert F. Church Sr. Awards coupled with a ‘Celebration of Diversity’ at MMBC Continuum annual event by Paula Anderson
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
A “Celebration of Diversity” was the theme as the Mid-South Minority Business Council (MMBC) Continuum held its annual Robert R. Church, Sr. Achievement Awards luncheon and celebration at the Holiday Inn – University of Memphis last week (Nov. 16). The tone was set at the outset as MMBC President/CEO Jozelle Booker emphasized the significance of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in the business sector. DEI efforts are essential to MMBC, an economic development accelerator for minority and women-owned business enterprises. The organization provides technical assistance, access to capital resources, and business-to-business opportunities for its membership. In an interview with The New TriState Defender, Booker said, “Diversity equates to minority owned-businesses, equity relates to minority and women-owned business enterprises (M/WBEs) being ‘ready, willing and able’ and inclusion connects M/WBEs to procurement opportunities. … “Building relationships with potential buyers is another aspect for procurement opportunities.”
Amplifying, Booker said while some may prefer online shopping, others may want to see, touch, and try on a product before making a purchase. It Jozelle was her way of Booker emphasizing the importance of establishing a relationship with a potential buyer before an invitation to bid opens up. The keynote speaker, Ken Yearwood, associate partner with McKinsey & Company in Chicago, delivered a virtual address, drawing upon research from a business diversity and inclusion whitepaper. The report indicated that MWBEs can have a positive impact on the economy if there were more supplier diversity programs for the finance, information technology, legal and engineering sectors. Professional and business services, real estate, finance, insurance and IT accounted for about 40 percent of the GDP in 2020, an increase from 35 percent in 2000, according to the report. The whitepaper offered recom-
The Robert R. Church, Sr. Achievement Awards saluted excellence: Corporation of the Year, MBDA Business of the Year, Scalable Business of the Year, and Quality Assurance Business of the Year. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender) mendations for next-generation supplier diversity programs: partnerships, strategic relationships, joint ventures and investments, and industry groups. Essentially, creating a diverse business ecosystem. Celebrating excellence The Robert R. Church, Sr. Achievement Awards saluted excellence: Corporation of the Year, MBDA Business of the Year, Scalable Business of the Year, and Quality Assurance Business of the Year. “He was an entrepreneur, a forward thinker, a risk taker and visionary,” said Booker, noting that Church was “instrumental in saving the city with the first bond after the yellow fever epidemic.” Action Janitorial Paper and Safety received the M/WBE Quality Insur-
ance Award. “Teamwork, attention to detail, customer focus, excellent work environment, and smart people are just a few reasons ACTION JPS has won the Business of Year Quality Assurance Award the last three years,” said Charles Barnes, the company’s president and CEO. Pete Mitchell and Associates, Inc. received the Scalable Business of the Year Award after being recommended by a client. “To be recognized as the winner of this great award is humbling and very much appreciated,” said President/ CEO George Hilliard. Memphis Shelby County Schools was selected as the Corporation of the Year. Joyce Douglas, manager of MSCS’s Minority and Women-Owned Small Business Enterpris-
es (MWSBE), credited the leadership of MSCS board members and Interim Supt. Toni Williams, the district’s chief financial officer. She also pointed to “a great collaboration with Procurement Services and our divisions. “At MWSBE, opportunity is our business. We believe when we ‘do business’ with local minority and women-owned small business enterprises we are investing back into our economy.” W & T Contracting Corporation was awarded the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) Business of the Year Award. (To learn more about MMBC Continuum, visit www.mmbe-memphis. org.) (Paula Anderson is a freelance business journalist. She can be reached at writingbydesign7@gmail.com.)
Lighting up Soulsville...
A tradition of meeting the need … De Bone the Turkey hosted by Billene Durham once again brought volunteers together to prepare turkeys for Thanksgiving meals to be served to the homeless at Union Mission, 600 Poplar (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender)
Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris addresses the crowd that turned out for the lighting of the Christmas Tree on Bellevue at Walker, another signal that Christmas is near. The evening included this masterful vocal performance and community honors. Shelby County Commissioner Mickell Lowery (right) and former Commissioner Reginal Milton, now deputy administrator for the Shelby County Office of Education and Youth Services, are regulars at the annual event. Photos: Tyrone P. Easley/ The New Tri-State Defender)
The New Tri-State Defender
November 24 - 30, 2022
Page 9
NEWS
CLASSIFIEDS
A grant designed to answer the youth call for something ‘to do’
TSD CLASSIFIEDS
The application deadline is Dec. 14 Applications now are being accepted for the Tennessee Mentorship and Sports Grant administered by the SchoolSeed Foundation and fueled by a $500,000 state appropriation largely shepherded by Tennessee Rep. Antonio Parkinson. Existing leagues, leagues to be established and individual teams serving youth up to 18 years old are eligible if they meet other key criteria, notably including a nonprofit affiliation. Existing leagues (with a maximum of 30 teams) may apply for up to $1,500 per team. Individual teams may apply for up to $1000 but cannot do so if they are part of an application for an existing-league grant. Applicants establishing a league may apply for up to $500. The application deadline is Dec. 14. To apply, visit SchoolSeed. The grant was rolled out recently during a presentation orchestration by Parkinson at the Ed Rice Community Center in Frayser. “Don’t have anything to do. That’s the one thing I hear from students,” said Parkinson. “And so, we are here to answer that call.” Detailing that $500,000 had been put into the state budget for youth sports and mentorship programs, Parkinson framed the grants as “an investment in our children’s futures and their successes.”
Turning to the children assembled, Parkinson said, “These children … will build our workforce development needs, that will build the jobs that you oversee, that will become our next business owners … our next business owners, our next superstars, and our next academic superstars also in the classroom.” With the grants directed toward sports programs, Parkinson detailed three key embedded components: academic, mentorship and community service. “While we have this whole idea and strategy in youth sports, it’s so much more bigger than youth sports,” said Parkinson, “it’s about shaping the character and shaping the lives of our children so that they avoid those pitfalls, those cracks, that are out there for them, and become the best citizens that we could possibly allow them to become.” Parkinson, who coached the Raleigh Central Tigers for about four years, talked about the sacrifice of coaches and parents. “This money … can be used for equipment, for fees, for traveling, for coaching stipends, for uniforms, insurance, whatever is needed for these babies to be able to get involved in youth sports. … That’s why this investment is vitally important.” SchoolSeed is the intermediary for the state grant. President/CEO Vincent J.
1509 Madison Ave. Memphis, TN 38104 PH (901) 523-1818 HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. DEADLINES: Display ads Friday 5 p.m. Classifieds ads Monday 5 p.m. STANDARD RATES: $6.00 per line for 1 column ad. Rates are non-commissionable and are quoted at the net rate. No refund for early cancellation. For additional information contact Sales Dept. at (901) 746-5201 or email: advertising@tsdmemphis.com. ADJUSTMENTS: PLEASE check your ad the first day it appears. Call (901) 523-1818 if an error occurs. We can only offer in-house credit and NO REFUNDS are issued. THE NEW TRI-STATE DEFENDER assumes no financial responsibility for errors nor for copy omission. Direct any classified billing inquires to (901) 523-1818.
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Encouraging applications, SchoolSeed President/CEO Vincent J. McCaskill (center) assured that “the process is a fair process. We have a committee, a grant committee, that will be going through grants.” (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender) McCaskill referenced “building up a whole child. … We can’t put it all on the back of our schools. We have to fill the gap. We know that there are countless numbers of mentors, coaches, parents who are involved in these sports leagues.…” McCaskill envisioned the Tennessee Mentorship and Sports Grant sparking conversation in communities across Tennessee “where there are other people who want to step up to the table to provide other supports to our kids and communities.” McCaskill had praise for
Post-Thanksgiving campaign to feed, clothe the homeless
TSD Newsroom
PowerPeoples Feed the Need/ Campaign 100 will provide 100 homeless individuals with a good meal and warm clothing items on Saturday (November 26) from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Morris Park, 747 Poplar Ave. The post-Thanksgiving act of love will assist individuals experiencing a rough time. If desired, they can also receive COVID, flu, and/or monkeypox vaccinations. According to the Community Alliance for the Homeless 2021 Point-in-Time Count, there are 1,055 sheltered and unsheltered homeless individuals in Memphis and Shelby County. PowerPeoples has been feeding the homeless population in Memphis for several years. The post-Thanksgiving event
is PowerPeoples’ largest undertaking. They have partnered with the non-profit Youth Connection Agency, Inc., which provides intervention programs for youth to help reduce crime. Many of the youth they serve are homeless, along with their families. Those with a desire to become a part of Feed the Need/Campaign 100 can make a monetary donation toward the clothing items. The tax-deductible donation will be used to purchase hats, scarves, gloves, and socks. PowerPeoples is a people-building people platform that offers life coaching to help individuals navigate through personal and career challenges to reach their goals. It was created by author and financial services representative Mario Nolan-Dillard. He started the initiative in 2018 after finding his estranged father living in a
homeless shelter. “My father left when I was young, and I only saw him a couple of times during my childhood after that. We reconnected when I was an adult, and I discovered he was homeless,” said Nolan Dillard. “I found him at Union Mission having dinner. That experience allowed me to put a face to homelessness,” he said. “These men and women could be any of us and the humanity in each of us should compel us to provide assistance. We welcome donations from anyone who has the heart to give and help us supply items to keep the homeless warm during the cooler temperatures.” (For more information or to donate, contact www.campaign100.org or info@campaign100.org.)
Parkinson’s push for grant funding and Gov. Bill Lee’s support. Parkinson, a Democrat, particularly noted bipartisan for the grant funding, calling by name Lee, House Speaker Cameron Sexton and Lt. Gov. Randy McNally among others. He also noted the work of the Tennessee Black Caucus, House Minority Leader Karen Camper of Memphis, and his staff. Parkinson said the state budget process “literally ran me over like a train” for many years. “About five years into me
being elected, I started getting a little wiser and started trying to run with the train. But yet still, getting flattened,” he said. “Then finally close to eight years in, I finally started understanding the budget and understanding the process and understanding the politics of the budget, which is most important, and we were able to get this money allocated for our children.” (Apply for the Tennessee Mentorship and Sports Grant at https://www.schoolseed. org/.)
Shelby County Government has issued Sealed Bid number I000726, Vehicle Auto Glass Replacement & Supplies (Sheriff’s Office). 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 I000726 DUE DATE TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2022 AT 2:30 PM CDT (SB-I000726), Vehicle Auto Glass Replacement & Supplies (Sheriff’s Office) 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
SPORTS
The New Tri-State Defender, November 24 - 30, 2022, Page 10
Tigers bowl over North Alabama on Senior Day by Terry Davis
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
The bowl-hungry University of Memphis Tigers got what they wanted by stuffing the Lions of North Alabama with a 59-0 shutout at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium on Saturday (Nov. 19). The Tigers (6-5) rewarded the 24,154 on hand with a win that runs the string of bowl-eligible years to nine. It was the Tigers’ first shutout since 2015. Next up for Memphis is a chance to Terry improve their bowl Davis position in a season-ending conference game against the SMU Mustangs (65). North Alabama (1-10) was a made-toorder opponent for Senior Day. The Lions, who play their home games at Braly Municipal Stadium in Florence Alabama, compete in the NCAA Division I ASUN Conference and competed at the Division II level from 1972 to 2017. “We will never take for granted going to a bowl game because half of the teams don’t,” said Memphis head coach Ryan Silverfield. “It shows the battle and willpower of our young men. We still have a lot of football left to play.” Against the woefully overmatched Lions, Memphis’ offense looked great. The defense played a complete game and the special teams were, well, special. Fast Eddie Lewis capped a spectacular 60-yard punt return by diving over the pylon for a touchdown that stood up to review. Lewis also had 3 catches for 73 yards and a touchdown. “It was routine,” said Lewis of the punt return. “I trust the guys on the return, and I just ran it. I knew I scored.” In the game dedicated to the team’s seniors, senior running back Asa Martin notched a 10-yard running touchdown. “It meant a lot,” said Martin, providing context for what it meant for the senior class to show out. “It was a big day at the Liberty Bowl in front of this crowd one last
Asa Martin on Senior Day: “It was a really good experience for us….”
Fast Eddie Lewis: “It was routine. ...” I trust the guys on the return, and I just ran it. I knew I scored.” (Photos: Terry Davis/The New Tri-State Defender) time. It was a really good experience for us….” Xavier “Zay” Cullens led the Tigers’ defense in his final game at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, totaling a game-high 10 tackles, a sack, a fumble recovery and a 54yard interception return for a touchdown. Quindell Johnson had four stops, two tackles for loss, a forced fumble and a team-leading fourth interception that prompted a team celebration.
“It is important to celebrate with the team because it (the interception) was not only me who had it, it was a team effort. Everyone else made it happen. … We all are going to celebrate together. We know we don’t have that much time left together,” said Johnson. “Zay (Cullens) and me made a victory walk after the game. We jogged around the field. We wanted to take it all in. My emotions are everywhere; we just wanted
Quindell Johnson sports his pre-game face.
“We will never take for granted going to a bowl game because half of the teams don’t. It shows the battle and willpower of our young men. We still have a lot of football left to play.” — Ryan Silverfield to soak it all in.” For Johnson, his favorite memory as a Tiger was what he called “the block at Tulsa in 2019. Without that one, we would not have had College Game Day here. That is something I cherish because you don’t get many of those. That is on the stat sheet.” Before the game, Memphis recognized 17 student-athletes for Senior Day: Jaylon Allen, Xavier “Zay” Cullens, Matt Dale, Michael Denson, Joe Doyle, Wardalis Ducksworth, Ryan Glover, John Hassell, Chris Howard, Quindell Johnson, Asa Martin, Tyler Murray, Austin Myers, Sylvonta Oliver, Rodney Owens, Gabriel Rogers and Johnny Westbrook. At halftime, Memphis retired former player Danton Barto’s number 59. Barto, who died in August 2021 at age 50, was a 2007 M-Club Hall of Fame inductee. He remains the school record-holder for career solo tackles (273) and career total tackles (473) and ranks second all-time with 200 assisted career tackles. Former Tigers in the prestigious group of having their jerseys retired are John Bramlet (64), Isaac Bruce (83), Dave Casinelli (30), Charles Greenhill (8), Harry Schuh (79) and DeAngelo Williams (20). And now Barto (59)!
Bartlett knocks on door of a state title berth with big win over Germantown by Liaudwin Seaberry Jr.
Special to The New Tri-State Defender
At this time of year, when a high school football team gets to practice on Thanksgiving it’s a signal that something has gone very right. Bartlett High School’s Panthers can attest to that truth. “I’m happy we get to practice on Thanksgiving this year,” said Bartlett star quarterback Braylen Ragland, who threw a late, first-down-securing pass that helped extend the Panthers’ season on Friday night and thrust them into the Region 6A semifinals against Hendersonville’s Beech High School. “That’s what we worked hard to get this entire season, and here we are.” With Bartlett (11-2) needing a first down to cement a victory against Germantown High School (11-3) in the 3rd round of the playoffs, Ragland, a Georgia State commit, connected with Deshaun Catron for the first down with just under 2 minutes left to play. The 16-14 win on their home field
Caption xxxx xxxx ghghg xxxx hjjhj xxxx ffgfg xxxx. Caption xxxx xxxx ghghg xxxx hjjhj xxxx ffgfg xxxx. Caption xxxx xxxx ghghg xxxx hjjhj xxxx ffgfg xxxx. was a measure of revenge for the Panthers, who fell 17-16 to the Red Devils during the regular season. “Our only loss here in the city was to them,” said Ragland, “and to get that back during this time of the year felt really good.” Bartlett head coach Lance Tucker had positioned his team to view the loss to Germantown as a motivator to improve their performance
should they encounter the Red Devils again. “I told the coaches I didn’t like that number 16 on the board,” said Tucker referring to Bartlett’s point total in the in-season loss to Germantown. “I honestly don’t know how we won the game (Friday night), but I’m more than happy that we did. Both squads were clicking offensively in the first quarter, as Bartlett
Caption xxxx xxxx ghghg xxxx hjjhj xxxx ffgfg xxxx. Caption xxxx xxxx ghghg xxxx hjjhj xxxx ffgfg xxxx. Caption xxxx xxxx ghghg xxxx hjjhj xxxx ffgfg xxxx. running back Geron Johnson and Germantown running back Malik Mason each found the end zone. Bartlett broke a 7-7 tie in the middle of the second quarter when Ragland connected with Catron as the Panthers forged ahead 13-7. The Panthers followed that touchdown with an onside kick, which they recovered and turned into a field goal that pushed their lead to 16-7 at halftime.
As Bartlett’s offense sputtered through the third quarter and into the 4th, Germantown rode the momentum into a touchdown drive. Quarterback Isaiah Tate hit wide receiver Quinton Brooks with a touchdown pass that trimmed Bartlett’s lead to 16-14. However, the Red Devils could get no closer. And now Bartlett is on the doorstep of a state title game berth.