The New Tri-State Defender - December 30, 2021-January 5, 2022 by The Tri-State Defender

2021

14 PHOTOS TELL A STORY OF

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The New Tri-State

TSD photojournalists captured key moments from the past year that made life in Memphis memorable. See Pages 4-5

2021 - January

The New Tri-State

December 30,

Defender

2021 - January

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2021

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14 PHOTOS TELL

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A STORY OF

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www.tsdmemphis.com

A COVID Christmas sets up prospect of a Happy New Year

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COMMENTARY

5, 2022

NEWS

5, 2022

NEWS

ns in support demonstratio and towns. cities catalyst, simultaneous held in several push as the With a local inmate Pervis Payne were of death-row S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises) (Photo: Gary

December 30, 2021 - January 5, 2022

VOL. 70, No. 52

December 30,

Defender

$1.00

‘No-snitch’ norm must go to break the deadly grip of city’s homicides

by Candace A. Gray

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

’Twas the day before Christmas. While some families were making their ﬁnal preparations for the holidays, wrapping presents and starting to cook lavish holiday meals, other families were trying to get tested for COVID-19. My family was one of the latter. Our 2-year-old had a runny nose and cough for weeks, but isn’t that par for the course with all kids in daycare? He never had a fever, so we didn’t get him tested for COVID-19. (Mistake number one.) Toddlers are very attached to their parents, with almost no clue of what personal space is or means. Our son is no different. He’s recently started “meowing” and even licking our faces like a cat. All part of the learning process, right? But what he doesn’t understand is that he might have given his cold (or COVID-19) to Mommy (and maybe even Daddy – that remains to be seen). I started feeling weird the Tuesday (Dec. 21) before Christmas. I called my husband and said, “I feel weird. Not bad, just weird…maybe like Vertigo? Just wanted you to know, as I’m doing some last-minute running around for Christmas.” He suggested I go home, but said he’d call to check on me later. I ran my last few errands, while continuing to wear my mask, sanitize, social distance. ALL THE THINGS. (And yes, we are vaccinated but just haven’t had a chance yet to get our boosters.) Later that night, we had a rare and impromptu date night at Huey’s, as my aunt said she’d watch the tot for a few hours. We enjoyed our time out and made sure to sit at the bar (away from people). Before bed, I had a little cough, but no fever. So, I pushed through, like all the other days of entrepreneurship, wifehood and

With Memphis grappling with skyrocketing homicides and deadly waves of violent crime, while also being named America’s most dangerous city, God’s people must pray for Memphis. “Getting that report (most dangerous city) mustn’t make us lose hope,” said the Rev. Ricky Floyd, pastor of Pursuit of God Transformation Center in Frayser. “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, the Bible tells us. There must be a paradigm shift. There must be a change of mind. Not only must the Christian body unite in prayer, but we must break this ‘no snitch’ policy.” Floyd said much of the Rev. Ricky crime occurring in the city Floyd can be solved by people, who know what happened, coming forward to tell the truth. “You’ve got to reveal so we can be healed,” said Floyd. “Thaddeus Matthews and I were just talking about this. The protection of women and children in our communities has moved to protecting the criminals. “Right up here in Frayser, a 56-year-old grandmother was shot and killed, with a baby in her arms. Fifty or 60 people saw what happened. But no one will say anything. This lady

SEE HOMICIDES ON PAGE 2 The Gray family gathers outside to open presents while Candace A. Gray battles COVID-19 inside. (Courtesy photo) motherhood. Wednesday (Dec. 22) I was looking forward to the evening, as I was attending “Hamilton” for the ﬁrst time at the Orpheum with a friend and music colleague whom I KNEW would enjoy it as much

as me. (Was life ﬁnally getting back to some level of normalcy? Maybe.) I was taken aback when I drove by

SEE COVID ON PAGE 2

Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s Memphis connection by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

For those fortunate enough to have been in the presence of Archbishop Desmond Mpilo Tutu, South Africa’s iconic symbol of human rights and the struggle against apartheid, a few such moments with him had staying power. Tutu, the winner of the 1984 Nobel Peace Prize, died on Sunday, Dec. 26. He was 90. In 1992, Tutu, the former Bishop of Johannesburg (1985-86) and the Archbishop of Cape Town (1986-96), was in Memphis, taking in salutes and tributes as the winner of a Freedom Award bestowed that year by the National Civil Rights Museum (NCRM). “The world has lost a champion of truth and reconciliation, a strong warrior in the ﬁght for justice,” the NCRM posted via its social media network after word arrived of Archbishop Tu-

tu’s passing. “Our lives are forever changed by his cheerful goodwill, kind candor, and audacious empathy. Rest well, Archbishop Tutu, good and faithful servant. Thank you for your purest forms of love in action.” Desmond Dr. Willie W. Herenton Tutu had just become the ﬁrst African American elected mayor of Memphis when Tutu made his way to the Bluff City. “I had the privilege and honor to greet Bishop Tutu when he was honored in Memphis,” Herenton recalled in a conversation with The New Tri-State Defender on Wednesday. “He was a man who stood tall on respect and humanity for all people. I admired his courage

and strength.” An even stronger connection between Memphis and Tutu was established when two local civil rights leaders traveled to Johannesburg, South Africa to convene with African leaders on strategies to defeat apartheid. Pastor Samuel “Billy” Kyles, the late renowned pastor of Monumental Baptist Church, and Apostle Bill Adkins, pastor of Greater Imani Church, Cathedral of Faith, encouraged Tutu and other African leaders in their ﬁght. Adkins had insightful recollections on the time he and Kyles spent in Johannesburg. “I had the great honor of meeting Bishop Tutu in Johannesburg, South Africa. Billy Kyles and I went over there in 1993. This was still during the time of apartheid,” said Adkins. “We went over to meet with Black leaders to talk with them about the workings of democ-

SEE TUTU ON PAGE 2

Drumming in Kwanzaa ... Memphis’ annual observance of the seven-day Kwanzaa cultural celebration is underway through Jan. 1. MidSouth Kwanzaa, Inc. hosted the Sunday evening recognition of the principle of Umoja (unity) at Dr. Carnita Atwater’s North Chicago Performing Arts Center at 1036 Firestone Ave. For more information, visit www.TSDMemphis.com. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

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The New Tri-State Defender

December 30, 2021 - January 5, 2022

Page 2

NEWS COVID

CONTINUED FROM FRONT the vibrant, marigold-lighted marquee, and saw the crowd quickly forming beneath it, but I hoped that maybe seats would be skipped inside. No. Every seat in the Orchestra section was full. That made me a little uncomfortable, but gosh – we had waited for SO LONG for Broadway’s comeback – surely things would be OK.... The rhythmic musical was AMAZING – and most people complied with the “masks required” policy – but a part of me simply couldn’t relax because this was the most conﬁned space I’d been in with a LOT of people since March 2020. (I’d sang at the Grizzlies game a few weeks prior, and Hope Church the week before, but didn’t feel as uncomfortable, as we were on stage, away from the crowds.) Thursday (Dec. 23) morning brought about a headache, coughs, sore throat, body

aches, a soak in the tub, still no fever, and one last day of prep and running around. The day’s agenda: quick trips to Buff City Soap, Bass Pro Shops, Costco and finally home. My sister-cousin had arrived from Florida. We had separately finished buying all the ingredients for a perfect holiday feast we’re known to make, now that our mothers and grandmother have gone on to glory. As we caught up, between my coughs, she urged me to go ahead and take the last of two home tests we had, the first of which my husband took a month prior, which yielded negative results. “I will, I will,” I kept saying…right after I do this, and that, and… I took the test. Positive! I was POSITIVE it was a mistake. I sobbed. Said it couldn’t be true. Retraced my steps. Wondered where I went wrong. WHY ME, LORD? I was so hurt. I mask up, sanitize, social distance, work from home most days with very little contact with the

outside world, except an occasional trip to Aldi and Costco… but still caught COVID-19. I was devastated. All the preparations, plans, presents…were now up in the air. Thursday night and Friday morning (Dec. 24), we frantically searched for testing sites and made an appointment at ZupMed in Laurelwood. Hubby and the toddler were negative, thank God. I cried more before heading home to quarantine. Christmas was ofﬁcially canceled. Christmas Day (Dec. 25) was weird and nothing like we planned. But we tried to remember that for US, Christmas was about God giving us the greatest gift ever – eternal life and FREEDOM through his son, Jesus Christ. As I watched my family open gifts on our porch through my ofﬁce window, I was reminded of God’s goodness and mercy. We are alive and not in hospitals on ventilators. The doctors mentioned that this new Omicron variant

HOMICIDES

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

Archbishop Desmond Tutu speaks at The Peabody in 1992 after traveling to Memphis to accept the National Civil Rights Museum Freedom Award. (Photo: Courtesy of National Civil Rights Museum)

TUTU

CONTINUED FROM FRONT racy and to show them how we organized our civil rights movement. “It was a fascinating experience, he was a fascinating man, and it was a fascinating time to be in the country,” Adkins recalled. “I met with him at his church. We were introduced by Winnie Mandela. That time with the Bishop was life-changing and memorable. “At the time that Bishop Tutu and I spoke, he had already endured much suffering. But, he was able to foster a peace between Blacks and whites, while the country continued to make progress in race relations. He was

humble and engaging,” said Adkins. “Bishop Tutu was a great man; a man of great vision and a man of great optimism. I will value that experience always.” After apartheid, Archbishop Tutu challenged social issues, including discrimination against homosexuals, combatting the HIV/AIDS pandemic, and international war crimes. He also spoke out to encourage free trade with poorer countries and affordable access to anti-AIDS drugs. In 2009, President Barack Obama awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Even after retirement in 2010, he remained engaged in human rights issues such as eradicating poverty, LGBTQ rights and climate change

didn’t have nothing to do with nothing. This has got to stop.” The use of data from the FBI’s 2020 Uniform Crime Report (UCR), news analysis and commentary site 24/7 Wall St., identiﬁed Memphis as the most dangerous metro area in the United States. Shock jock and self-styled activist Thaddeus Matthews said breaking the “no snitch” code in Memphis will go a long way to freeing the city from the stranglehold of crime. “Pastor Floyd and I want to work on a program that lets people know it’s alright to inform law enforcement,” said Matthews. “We must reveal and heal our city. We can rid ourselves of the criminal element in our communities by standing up and doing what is right. We want billboards all over the city with that message. We have the power to take back our communities.” More than 18,000 violent crimes, or 1,359 for every 100,000 people, landed Memphis in the undesirable number one spot. That number is three times the national average. According to the UCR, violent crime is composed of four offenses: 1) murder and nonnegligent manslaughter; 2) forcible rape; 3) robbery, and 4) aggravated assault. These offenses are considered “violent” because they involve force or threat of force. The analysis said poverty is a strong driver of high crime rates. Low-income communities disproportionately are rid-

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is highly spreadable and contagious, but the symptoms are lessened if you’re vaccinated. I can attest to that. My biggest mistake? Getting too comfortable. If I had to do it all over again, I would have done more online shopping. Date night would’ve still been takeout in the backyard. I wouldn’t have gone to the musical. I would’ve tested the toddler earlier. There is no way to pinpoint where and when I contracted COVID-19 but this was my wake-up call to be even more vigilant, almost TWO YEARS into this global pandemic. We are not out of the woods yet, people. Please proceed with caution. I know the urge to be around your people is strong, especially after YEARS of isolation. But be careful. Wear your masks. Social distance. Get vaccinated. Stay at home if/when you can. My last day of quarantine is Dec. 31. Just in time for a Happy Near Year – at home. dled with crime. Families with incomes less than $15,000 annually are three times more likely to be victimized than households making $75,000 or more, according to one study. Floyd agrees that poverty is a decisive factor in producing high crime. “Poverty is certainly an important element in crime. We’ve been struggling with widespread poverty for so many years. But mental health is an issue, as well,” said Floyd. “When we launched Memphis Prayer 365, we know that prayer must go along with our

Seeking to make the best of a difﬁcult situation, Candace A. Gray looks out a window as her family celebrates Christmas on the other side. (Courtesy photo)

other efforts. Each one of the anchor churches is involved in housing, mental health assistance, employment, mentoring, feeding. Prayer must be combined with other things.” One of the city’s most heartbreaking tragedies happened on Christmas Day in Orange Mound. Artemis “Sean” Rayford, 12, was sitting inside his home playing with his new games when bullets suddenly came through the family home. One of those stray bullets hit Sean in the chest, killing him. Memphis police said the ofﬁcial report cannot be released

since the investigation is ongoing. The boy was a seventh-grader at Sherwood Middle School. According to the family, a man was running across the yard from the shooter when several bullets hit the front of the house. Sean became the 30th homicide of a minor child this year in Memphis. The family also released photos and videos of Sean dancing amid cheers from loved ones and friends. On Wednesday (Dec. 29), there were a record-breaking 339 homicides logged in Memphis, seven more than last year’s total, which was also a record.

PERSPECTIVE The New Tri-State Defender, December 30, 2021 - January 5, 2022, Page 3

COMMENTARY

Viewing 2021’s top topics through my education lens by Curtis Weathers

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

ooking through my education lens, three topics with historic implications captured my attention more so than any others – the pandemic and the rise of virtual learning, critical race theory and the violence and senseless killing of so many of our school-age children. Let’s take a look at each:

Curtis Weathers

COVID-19 and the rise of virtual learning COVID-19 and its variants, Delta and Omicron, is clearly the number-one topic of 2021. This pandemic has been one of the most tumultuous and disruptive phenomena we have ever witnessed or experienced during our lifetime. The virus has disrupted our economy, touched every aspect of our healthcare system and fundamentally altered our school systems’ approach to education. While I will never wholly understand the mind-altering politics of this pandemic, it has nevertheless shown me just how gullible people can be even when the implications of their actions or inactions are matters of life and death. While things have not been perfect, I am proud of how our education community has responded to the COVID crisis. Educators are called upon, with only a moment’s notice, to make significant adjustments to how they manage and execute the teaching and learning process in our schools. Virtual learning has added an entirely new dimension to the instructional process. Before COVID-19, there was already rapid growth and adoption in education technology, with global investments reaching almost $20 billion in 2019 and the overall market for online education projected to reach $350 billion by 2025. Teachers and students alike have done an excellent job of mastering and managing the new demands of virtual learning. My hope is that we will build upon the new knowledge and skills we have acquired to help improve instruction and increase learning outcomes in our schools. I look forward to what the future holds for virtual and online learning. It is exciting! Critical race theory (CRT) In Kingsport, Tennessee, a white teacher was fired for teaching his white students about white privilege and Critical Race Theory. The first Black principal of a mostly white Texas high school was forced to re-

“We have been enjoying virtual learning at home,” said Ernestine Wilkins, a grandmother raising her two grandchildren, Sasha Anderson, 12, and Alexander Austin, 9. (right) Tiphne Hurd said isolation was getting to her son, Jermier, who was “so happy returning to school on Monday (March 1, 2021).” (Courtesy photo)

A group called Moms for Liberty ﬁled an 11-page complaint in Tennessee alleging that the book “Martin Luther King Jr. and the March on Washington” is “anti-American.” sign because a white parent claimed, without evidence, that he was using CRT to promote racially charged conspiracy theories in his school. Teachers across the U.S. are altering their curriculum to avoid topics that might promote CRT content. The battle over critical race theory is fully underway in Tennessee and around the country, and the casualties are beginning to mount. Critical race theory is a controversial academic framework for examining systemic racism and how it operates in our laws and institutions. It was one of the most interesting and hotly debated topics of 2021. State legislatures across the country, including Tennessee, have passed laws banning CRT from being discussed in classrooms. Unfortunately, their actions have had a muzzling effect on teaching basic topics of history, especially black history, in our schools. This topic will continue to gain momentum and will continue to be one of the most controversial educational topics of 2022.

Slain Wooddale High School cheerleader Breuna Woods (left) is shown here with her mother, Porsha Woods. She was killed while sitting in the car with her friend, Phillexus Buchanan, and another teen, who was shot but did not die. (Photo: Facebook)

Phillexus Buchanan

Violence takes its toll The Memphis community continues to lose its school-age children to gun violence. Just last week (Christmas Eve), a

12-year-old boy was killed in a drive-by shooting. Three more individuals as well lost their lives in separate incidents during that same period. The young boy was the 26th school-aged child to fall victim to gun violence in the streets of Memphis this year. Among major metropolitan areas, Memphis has the second-highest homicide rate in the U.S., and our beloved city, according to a 24/7 Wall St. study, is ranked, sadly, as the most dangerous city in the United States. My heart aches, and my temper ﬂares every time I hear or read about the death of one of our children. School leaders hate nothing more than having to announce and then console a school full of children, teachers and staff about the violent death of one of their children. It is a gut-wrenching experience. We are struggling as a community to ﬁnd an answer to these problems. The year 2021 will be a memorable year for so many reasons. The collective impact of the past year has carved a scar in our hearts that will never heal. But if we fail to learn from our experiences and refuse to work together to improve our community and schools, then the trauma of 2021 will be for naught. What a shame that would be! I am looking forward to 2022 and our progress as a community. Let us come together, Memphis, and be a role model for other communities to emulate. (Follow TSD education columnist Curtis Weathers on Twitter (@curtisweathers); email: curtislweathers@gmail.com.)

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The New Tri-State Defender

December 30, 2021 - January 5, 2022

Page 1

The New Tri-State Defender

NEWS

The six-lane Hernando de Soto Bridge closed May 11 after a crack was discovered in a steel beam. It reopened Aug. 2. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises)

December 30, 2021 - January 5, 2022

Page 5

NEWS

Newly-selected National Civil Rights Museum President Dr. Russell Wigginton: “There are themes, there are patterns, there are examples that are relevant today that can connect back to yesterday or yesteryear. And I’m particularly interested in ﬁnding those intersections and lifting them up” (Photo: Shirley Jackson)

Memphis rapper Young Dolph (left) added his star presence to an Easter weekend celebration for neighborhood children in Castalia Heights at St. James Baptist Church, 1930 Hearst Ave.. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

In early February temperatures plummeted to near zero as government ofﬁces shut down and COVID-19 vaccine stations canceled all appointments. Jamal Hampton had his hands full playing in the snow. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises)

While keeping safety in mind, members of Pentecostal Temple Church of God in Christ saluted Pastor Charles H. Mason Patterson Sr. and his wife, LaShaundra Cox Patterson, during a 10th anniversary celebration on Sept. 5. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

2021

Marchers walk in unity against gun violence during one of several such events held throughout 2021. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises)

14 PHOTOS TELL A STORY OF

Shelby County Schools initiates a full-scale distribution of vaccinations for all employees at the Board of Education, 160 S. Hollywood. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises)

Jackson State University coach Deion Sanders and his team of Tigers celebrate with fans after a 38-16 win over Tennessee State University in the 32nd Southern Heritage Classic. (Photo: Warren Roseborough)

It was Zach Randolph’s night and like so many others during his eight-year run with the Grizzlies, he shared it with Memphis fans. (Photo: Warren Roseborough)

With a local push as the catalyst, simultaneous demonstrations in support of death-row inmate Pervis Payne were held in several cities and towns. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises)

Adjusting to the COVID-19 pandemic, Mt. Vernon Baptist Church-Westwood made drive-through anointing and prayer available. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley)

The Penny Hardaway-led Tigers netted the National Invitation Tournament title in Texas on March 29. (Photo: Terry Davis)

Pervis Payne, who faced the death penalty for 34 years, hugs his attorney, Kelley Henry, after a Shelby County judge vacated his death sentence. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises)

Members of Ida B. Wells’ family (l-r) – Michelle Duster, great-granddaughter; Tiana L. Ferrell, great-great-granddaughter and her daughter; Daniel Duster, great-grandson and David Duster, great-grandson – added to the realness of the unveiling of the statue that marked Well’s life, work and legacy. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises)

The New Tri-State Defender

December 30, 2021 - January 5, 2022

Page 6

RELIGION

The Little family is pictured from left: Cody Little, Minerva P. Little, Dr. Uliasea Little Jr., Courtney Little Jr. and Courtney Little. (Courtesy photo)

In service and for your service ... Pastor Marvin Mims Sr. and St. Mark Baptist Church, located at 940 Reverend J.C. Bachus Boulevard, recently saluted members with service awards. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender)

Scholar salute ... Presiding Elder Peris J. Lester I, pastor of Mt. Olive Cathedral CME, speaks during a service that included recognition of the church’s college students. (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender)

Pastor Uliasea Little delivers message of hope for a ‘troubled city’ in the new year by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

If Jesus was able to rise above the meager circumstances of his life, then so can His followers. That was the message Dr. Uliasea Little delivered Sunday (Dec. 26) to his congregation at Christ Baptist Church in Whitehaven. “My message came from the second chapter of Luke, which talks about the birth of Jesus,” said Little. “The circumstances of Jesus’ birth were not ideal. The government was not favorable. His mother’s pregnancy was questionable at best, and the environment was adverse – a stable full of animals. “But Jesus did not use the condition of his birth as an excuse not to reach His destined potential. His death and resurrection have given us that same power.” From his early years in the ministry, Little’s love for Memphis and his care of its people have taken him from the tutelage of nurturing pastors to a dynamic and vibrant ministry of encouragement and optimism – even a city rocked by an unprecedented wave of violence. “The seventh chapter of Matthew tells us that we do have an answer for the violence and criminal activity that continue to sweep our city,” said Little. “But our solutions are not in the physical. “Our warfare is spiritual. Our answers are spiritual. Our victory rests on how we respond to the word of God. We can do nothing without God. We cannot ﬁx problems independently of God.” Little’s family lives out his message of power and hope “through God and only through God.” His wife, Minerva P. Little, is director of Making a Difference Ministries, a nonproﬁt which addresses the needs of underserved families with children in Shelby County. She also is the publisher of Spirit Magazine, a Memphis-based monthly publication highlighting the issues and personalities of the African-American church community. Their son Courtney Little is the minister of music and frontman for his own multi-genre band. The couple’s other son, Cody Little, is director of media and sound at Christ Baptist. Cody also produces and plays

drums for his brother’s band. Courtney Little produced and wrote every song on his ﬁrst gospel CD at the age of 21. “Memphis is a troubled city,” said Pastor Little. “There’s no doubting that. But challenges and adversities can be blessings in disguise. John 15 tells us we are made clean by the word of God. “As long as we are connected to Jesus, the True Vine, we can all reach our fullest potential – God’s divine will for our lives. We have believed that. We have lived that, and now, our children live by that same principle of our Christian faith.” During the past year and a half of the COVID-19 pandemic, Making A Difference distributed 135,000 food boxes for families and 52,000 children’s food bags. The outreach ministry also has furnished 39 houses over the past seven years, impacting 127 Shelby County School students. Christ Baptist continues to grow in its effort to reach beyond the church walls to impact the lives of families. On Nov. 17, Minerva Little’s birthday, “Christmas in November” celebrated its kickoff with 250 food bags for kids, with a $20 bill included in each bag. Shelby County Commissioner Eddie Jones declared Nov. 17 as Minerva Poplar Little Day in Shelby County, complete with a resolution and fanfare. General Sessions Court Judge Betty Moore also issued a resolution, declaring Nov. 17 Minerva Little Day. Last June, Memphis City Council member JB Smiley Jr. honored Pastor Little with his own honorary street, Reverend Dr. Uliasea Little, Jr., on Mickey Drive, between East Raines Road and Lehr Drive. Little was associate pastor of Hickory Hill Baptist Church, when Pastor William Faulkner was there. After that, he spent ﬁve years as pastor of Mt. Gilliam Baptist Church in Byhalia, Mississippi. He returned to Memphis and planted Christ Baptist Church in February 1993. By June that same year, the congregation had moved into its present location. “It didn’t take long before God gave us our building,” said Pastor Little. “He has been faithful every step of the way.”

COMMUNITY The New Tri-State Defender, December 30, 2021 - January 5, 2022, Page 7

(Studio Gang & SCAPE)

Constructing community in the new Tom Lee Park by Candace A. Gray

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Memphis leaders are revamping Tom Lee Park to not only better serve the Memphis community, but to help connect the rest of Downtown to Memphis’ new front door. Parks have become increasingly important, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing people with safe, outdoor spaces for recreation, mental solace and beauty outside the confines of their isolated homes. Like Memphis, cities such as Chattanooga, Chicago and San Antonio are redesigning their downtown parks and riverfronts to create more appealing spaces that bring communities together. Carol Coletta, president and CEO of Memphis River Parks Partnership, the entity that manages 250 acres of Memphis’ riverfront and its parks, said, “Cities all over the world are reclaiming their waterfronts for people and reconnecting them to the city. “Memphis is blessed to be on North America’s most iconic river at its widest and wildest point. We have the advantage of learning from what others have done to make the best riverfront for the people of Memphis.” The crowned jewel of Memphis’ riverfront transformation is Tom Lee Park, named for an African-American river worker who, on May 8, 1925, courageously rescued 32 people from drowning in the Mississippi River. “He pulled each passenger into his small skiff boat, called the Zev, and took them back to shore as the much larger vessel, the M.E. Norman, began to capsize. Tom Lee, a non-swimmer, said of his heroic and selfless acts, “I guess I didn’t do any more than anyone else would have in my place.” Tyree Daniels, Memphis River Parks Partnership board chair (the second African-American chair in the organization’s history), said Tom Lee’s story is uniquely Memphis. “Many of our citizens perform acts of kindness, courage and self-determination daily in their neighborhoods,” said Daniels. “Tom Lee’s life and legacy serve as a testament to all Memphians of how bravery and a ‘can-do’ attitude can have a lasting impact.” Daniels is no stranger to that attitude, leading the successful fundraising efforts for the $61million public/private part-

This 2006 creation by David Alan Clark depicts the heroics of Tom Lee. nership park renovation, with only $6 million left to raise. Charmeal A l e x a n d e r, Tom Lee’s great, great niece, fondly recalls hearTom Lee ing stories about her uncle from her father and other elders. She and her family were instrumental in ensuring Tom Lee received the recognition he deserved. “After my uncle died in 1952, they renamed Astor Park at the foot of Beale Street after him and referred to him as a ‘Very Worthy Negro’ on his memorial, which was not good enough for us,” said Alexander. “So, in the 90s after my father passed, my sister Carlita Neely and I called city officials, and anyone who would listen, to advocate for a proper memorial.” Some of those calls were ignored. Perhaps a higher power was at play years later when Hurricane Elvis in 2003 damaged the stone obelisk honoring Lee, leading to the 2006 creation of a proper memorial in the sculpture by David Alan Clark now in the park. “Tom Lee’s legacy and spirit will live on in the new park, which is really important to our family now more than ever before,” Alexander said. The park comprised 30 acres of mostly flat, sprawling lawns, is being transformed into a more dynamic space with varying typography and for uses year-round by families, visitors, schools and businesses. “The park will provide so many

“Many of our citizens perform acts of kindness, courage and self-determination daily in their neighborhoods. Tom Lee’s life and legacy serve as a testament to all Memphians of how bravery and a ‘can-do’ attitude can have a lasting impact.” — Tyree Daniels new reasons to visit our riverfront,” said Coletta. She listed park features, including misting fountains, an all-access/all-ages playground, food and beverage opportunities, a new river deck to enjoy Memphis sunsets, a 20,000 square feet civic canopy conducive for games, dancing and gatherings, and running loops and walking paths through new native landscape. There also will be new overlooks of the river and the park, and more than 1,000 new trees. “One of the things I’m most excited about is Theaster Gates’ ‘anti-monument’ art experience that will build off of my uncle’s current memorial sculpture to drive community engagement,” Alexander said. “I can’t wait to see the impact his work has our on community.” Gates’ installation will feature 33 functional bronze sculptures (representing Lee and the 32 survivors) intended to provoke complex questions and dialogue about the future of Memphis and how we can all work to advance racial reconciliation.

Charmeal Alexander and daughter Aria with Memphis River Parks Partnership staff and board, and Rep. Steve Cohen. Pictured (l-r): George Abbott, Charmeal Alexander (and daughter Aria), Calvin Anderson, Carol Coletta, Rep. Steve Cohen, Greg Duckett and Tyree Daniels. (Photos: Memphis River Parks Partnership.)

Charmeal Alexander poses with her family, all descendants of Tom Lee, at the Tom Lee Day Celebration in 2021. Gates is among the MWBE (Minority, Women-owned Business Enterprise) entrepreneurs enlisted to help in the park’s redesign. Women-led architecture/ urban design and landscape architecture firms Studio Gang and SCAPE also part of the redesign team. “We are especially pleased to set a new bar for MWBE participation in major capital projects in Memphis with 44.88 percent participation,” said Coletta. “We actually exceeded that on the Fourth Bluff Park renovation, with 80 percent MWBE spend, but it was a smaller project. This one says, ‘We can do this, Memphis!’ Let’s get more equitable participation in these projects; participation that looks more like Memphis,” she said. Regarding equity, according to Coletta, the site of the new Tom

Lee Park sits on a unique piece of real estate. “It’s adjacent to Downtown and six blocks from Tennessee’s poorest Zip code, allowing it to leverage new value that benefits all of Memphis and serve Memphians for whom this needs to be their Disneyland. I love it when a single investment can do both. That’s the real story of why this location makes so much sense,” said Coletta. Daniels, Memphis River Parks Partnership board chair, added, “For many of the individuals who look like me, Tom Lee Park might be the only source of outdoor recreation and beauty they will be able to experience. We are building a transcendent park experience.” (To learn more, visit TomLeePark.org.)

The New Tri-State Defender

December 30, 2021 - January 5, 2022

Page 8

ENTERTAINMENT

Fables and legends made real in ‘African Icons’ by Terri Schlichenmeyer

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

“African Icons: Ten People Who Shaped History” by Tracey Baptiste, illustrated by Hillary D. Wilson c. 2021, Algonquin Young Readers $19.95 / higher in Canada 176 pages

The stories you love best are filled with excitement and power. Sometimes, they make you laugh; other times, they make you think. You like funny stories and silly ones, tales that make your eyes pop and tales that make your hands sweat. You like the old fables, too, the ones that teach you something. So come meet warriors, rulers, writers, and schemers in “African Icons” by Tracey Baptiste. When she was just a little girl, Baptiste’s father told her a story. Years later, she learned that what he told her was “one of the most popular stories throughout the continent of Africa” and that many of the tales she loved had roots there. “Not only is Africa the second largest continent on Earth,” she says, but its people have always had “rich lives,” a fascinatingly complex culture, and tales to tell. For instance, one of the first large communities in Africa was established along the banks of the Nile River in Egypt. There were many “minor kings” there then but King Menes hoped to grow his kingdom, and he did it by conquering the areas he wanted. Then he declared that the falcon god, Horus, had “bestowed the kingship of Egypt” on Menes himself – and who could argue with a god? Queen Merneith, who was Menes’ granddaughter, grew up in luxury and comfort and was “raised to rule.” Alas, her brother, Djet, ascended to the throne first but Merneith had the last word. She became one of her brother’s wives and when their son, Den, was 10 years old, he became king and Merneith stepped in as regent. This gave Den the chance to learn to rule the kingdom, while Merneith held all the power. Imhotep was a leader, but he was also a doctor, an advisor, and an engineer who built temples and tombs. Aesop was a wise storyteller whose tales you might’ve heard. Hannibal was a soldier who enjoyed many victories over

Tracey Baptiste Rome more than 2200 years ago. Terence of Carthage was an accomplished playwright. And Tin Hinan established a desert society where women and girls made the rules. All those stories we all grew up hearing, all those wonderfully puzzling tales we read and re-read, they had to come from somewhere. Author Tracey Baptiste says their roots lay in Africa and in “African Icons,” she explains how fables and legends are often real. But if that sounds dry, hold up. It’s not, if you’re a kid. Got a child who’s into action ﬁgures? This book will speak to that love, with general (not-too-detailed) tales of kingdoms conquered. Kids who crave stories of princesses, palaces, and magic carpets will be happy with this book’s sense of glitter and exoticness. Children who really love mummies will be fascinated by accounts of pharaohs and pyramid-builders in tales that are true, lively, kid-friendly, and fun to read, even if you’re an adult. Still, the best audience for this book is much younger. For kids ages 8-14, “African Icons” may hold the stories they love best.

“Not only is Africa the second largest continent on Earth,” but its people have always had “rich lives,” a fascinatingly complex culture, and tales to tell. — Tracey Baptiste

The New Tri-State Defender

December 30, 2021 - January 5, 2022

SPORTS

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Page 9

Ready and resolved to rumble, Grizzlies get past the Suns by Terry Davis

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

If Memphis gets to the Western Conference Playoffs and goes on a deep post-season run, their NBA ascent is likely to have been made with the kind of resolve that powered them past the Suns in Phoenix on Monday night. One night after ending a three-game losing streak by pounding the Kings in Sacramento, the Grizzlies outlasted the Suns 115114, improvTerry ing their reDavis cord to 21-14 as they occupy the fourth spot in the Western Conference chase for the playoffs. Openly embracing the role of road warriors, the Grizzlies have a 10-6 mark away from FedExForum, are winners of seven of their last 10 overall and eight of the last 10 on the road. Taking down the Suns, the team with the second-best record in the league, required a down-to-the-buzzer resolve capped by NBA All-Starworthy point guard Ja Morant. Three games back from an extended absence forced by a sprained knee and COVID-19 health and safety protocols, Morant accented a game-high, 33-points-and-four-assists performance with several highlight-reel scoring moves in the paint, including the game-winner with seconds remaining. “The play was Ja go get a bucket. That’s what I did,” said Morant of the game-winner. “I like being in those pressure situations. I like taking on that challenge of being the guy, you know, to take that shot. I delivered tonight … bigtime win for us against a great team.” The high-proﬁle victory came with NBA All-Star Voting 2021 now underway through Jan. 22 at 11 p.m. CT. Fans can vote starters to the NBA All-Star Game via the NBA App, NBA.com and Twitter. Reserves selected by NBA head coaches will be announced on Feb. 3 during “TNT NBA Tip-Off.” “I mean I don’t even know why people still asking the question,” said Desmond Bane, responding to whether Morant is an All-Star this season. “I mean 33 points this

Despite the challenges of injuries and COVID-19 health and safety protocols, the Grizzlies have been putting together a winning season. Here Jaren Jackson Jr. leads the team in a pre-game huddle against Portland at the FedExForum, where the Grizzlies were set to face the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday night (Dec. 29). For results, visit TSDMemphis.com. (Photo: Warren Roseborough/The New Tri-State Defender) third game back … dude just came off of injury COVID … against the Suns on the road. So, I don’t think it should be a discussion.” Bane, too, was on ﬁre against the Suns, scoring a career-high 32 points as he connected on 6 of 11 three-pointers. Last week, Morant expressed frustration after a few fans suggested the Grizzlies, who had been on a roll without him, would be better off if he sat back down. He has responded by stepping up on the court. “I’m thankful, I’m grateful for everybody supporting me,” said Morant. “It was times where I didn’t even know if I would be in this situation. If I would, you know, play at a D1 college. If I would be in the NBA. Having this opportunity, it’s a blessing. A lot of people wanna be here. So, to receive All-Star recognition is big time.” The Suns were without two of their big inside threats, Deandre Ayton and Jae Crowder, who helped them beat Memphis handily earlier in the year. Down by as many as 18 points in the second half, the Suns got a huge game from Devin Booker, who ﬁnished with 30 points and went 3 of 3 on three-pointers. With eight seconds remain-

ing, Booker hit a deep three, giving Phoenix its first lead since the Suns led 4-2 and sending the home-arena fans into delirium. During its timeout, Memphis locked in on a play designed for Morant. Taking a pass from Bane, he attacked the rim, making a dazzling layup off the glass while leaving Phoenix with .5 seconds remaining. A desperation shot by the Suns missed the mark, allowing Memphis to win two of its three games on the road trip. Memphis head coach Taylor Jenkins credited the players for how they closed out the game. “I mean there’s been a lot of learning over the last couple of weeks,” said Jenkins. “We’re trying to get our guys as prepared as possible for whatever … situation is called for. We had a couple of breakdowns there; obviously, you know, credit the Suns. They caught fire there in the second half, especially in that fourth quarter.” Chris Paul had 13 points, with 13 assists for Phoenix The Grizzlies played without Dillon Brooks, De’Anthony Melton and Ives Yons, who are on the protocols list for dealing with COVID-19. Jon Konchar, who got his first Memphis start against the Kings, followed up that performance of

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11 points and 14 rebounds with seven points, nine rebounds and numerous hustle plays. The defense of the Grizzlies held one of the best three-point shooting teams to only 11 made three-pointers. Memphis also had 10 steals in the game and outrebounded the Suns 50-35. Center Steven Adams had another double-double with 13 points and 16 rebounds. Jaren Jackson Jr. finished with 11 points. After what Jenkins summed up as, “A really good game against a really good ball club,” Bane said, “… our goal is to continue to get better … throughout the entire season, just continue to improve. That’s what we’ve done.” Morant said the Grizzlies are an “unselfish group. So, guys don’t matter if they playing a lot of minutes or just a little bit. When their number is called, they’re ready to come out and, you know, compete at a very high level. “I’ve been saying for a while, we have a lot of guys who can do a lot on the floor for us on both ends of the floor. I feel like now I know everybody is getting to see that. I missed some games; now with having Dylan and Melt out, other guys are stepping up in their roles. It just shows what a great core we have here.”

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The New Tri-State Defender

December 30, 2021 - January 5, 2022

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