The New Tri-State Defender – May 7-13, 2020

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May 7 - 13, 2020

VOL. 69, No. 19

www.tsdmemphis.com

NURSES WEEK 2020

A mother rises up, triumphs after dream-threatening fire by Amelia Ables Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Arieale Munson was 16 years old when she became a mother. Since then, she has founded a non-profit, written a book and become a motivational speaker. With motherhood as the priority, she vowed to provide her two sons with their own home to feel safe, and she recently purchased her first home through the RISE Foundation’s Save Up Program. Two weeks after closing on her first home, the house caught fire, destroying all of her family’s possessions. Material possessions, said Munson, aren’t the most important. “People say to me, ‘You lost everything, but you’re still smiling.’ But I didn’t lose everything,” she said. “I still have the gift of life. My sons and I are still standing strong. Sometimes God tests your faith, but I know something

Three nurses, one deadly virus and a praise-worthy profession

My mom is the ‘shero’ I want to be for my daughter Page 6 Black Mama’s Day Bailout: A different kind of homecoming Page 6 Special gift’ for Mother’s Day, despite the coronavirus threat Page 8 Young mother gives birth in pandemic Page 9 good will come out of this.” Rather than celebrate Mother’s Day in their new home, Munson’s family is living in a nearby apartment. They are in good spirits, and are prepared to move forward in rebuilding and re-

SEE MOM ON PAGE 3

$1.00

by John Semien Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Arieale Munson in the front yard of the home she purchased with the help of the Rise Foundation. Two weeks later, it caught fire and now she is getting help to rebuild. (Courtesy photo)

The COVID-19 virus hit home for nurse Rachel Clayton a few weeks ago when she and her husband, who is an emergency medical technician, decided one of them had to quit. “This is a decision we had to make because we have three young children and we are trying to reduce the possibility of exposure,” Clayton said. Clayton joked that now she has a house husband because in his work status, he usually works one day a month. The rest of his time is devoted to his children. The pandemic is ongoing amid National Nurses Week. It’s especially appropriate now since so many nurses and other medical professions here and around the world are being sickened by the virus or dying from it while caring for COVID-19 patients. In 1982, President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation on March 25, proclaiming “Na-

SEE NURSE ON PAGE 2

COMMENTARY With – or without – a Pulitzer, Ida B. Wells worth of our utmost praise Serving the Pentecostal Temple COGIC congregation is a way of life for Bishop Charles H. Mason Patterson Sr., even when a pandemic keeps the sanctuary closed and the parking lot becomes a place of worship. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley)

COGIC drawing on strength, resolve to battle COVID-19

by Karanja A. Ajanaku Kajanaku@tsdmemphis.com

The coronavirus approaches the “Saints” of the Church of God in Christ the same way it does anyone anywhere in the world – it aims to infect and kill. The toll has been heavy, including taking the lives of two members of the General Board. On May 1, Presiding Bishop Charles E. Blake Sr., sent out a sobering message. “While we understand that many states are now proceeding with efforts to ease stay-at-home mandates with the reopening of restaurants, malls, movie theaters, churches and other public venues at limited capacity, we must continue to stress that we are not yet in the clear with the coronavirus pandemic,” wrote Bishop Blake. “Collectively, as a denomination, we must use wisdom in realizing the need for continued social distancing, which will undoubtedly continue to impact the ways in which we would normally gather for church services, church meetings and church events. We do not recommend the reopening of COGIC churches at this time.” Local church leaders have responded creatively, including virtual, online services. Last Sunday, Bishop Charles H. Mason Patterson Sr., pastor of Pentecostal Temple Church of God in Christ, held a socially-distanced service on the parking lot of Pentecostal, which adjoins Robert R. Church off Downtown Memphis. Bishop Brandon B. Porter, who pastors Greater Community Temple COGIC, is a member of the General Board of the

Masks were a very visible part of the day as Pentecostal Temple COGIC improvised, holding service on its parking lot last Sunday. 6-million-plus international denomination. While many COGIC members have suffered and died from COVID-19, COGIC itself “is not in crisis” from the coronavirus, he said. COGIC, which is headquartered in Memphis, is known for what Porter called its “great gatherings, which could lend to

SEE COGIC ON PAGE 5

by Lee Eric Smith les@tsdmemphis.com

As an African-American journalist born and raised in Holly Springs, Miss., you’d think I’d have known more about my hometown’s favorite daughter growing up. But I didn’t. Then again, I guess it’s not so surprising that I didn’t know much about Ida B. Wells-Barnett. It’s not like any Mississippi public school was teaching much black history in general, let alone lionizing an African American – a woman, no less – who stood up against racial violence in the Deep South. The history we got was around the lives of people like George Washington Carver’s, W.E.B. DuBois, Booker T. Washington and, of course, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. As far as women were concerned, Ida the go-to was Harriet TubB. Wells man, for obvious reasons. Names like Fannie Lou Hamer, Madame C.J. Walker and Ida B. Wells usually got a vague sentence or two -- which is no way to even begin to acknowledge what Wells’ life was about, the impact that she had. But Wells’ contributions were given their due earlier this week. On Monday, Wells became a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, receiving a

SEE WELLS ON PAGE 3

The New Tri-State Defender

May 7 - 13, 2020

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NEWS

Kenyan nurse a stand-out on frontline COVID-19 ďŹ ght by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Deborah W. Mwazi is an RN at Methodist South Hospital in the Medical Surgical Unit on the 4th oor. The 12-hour grind taking care of both isolated COVID-19 and regular patients is grueling. “Our job as nurses is to administer treatment and medication,â€? said Mwazi. “We want to alleviate distress and make patients as comfortable as possible. I am happiest when I know I am helping.â€? Mwazi recalls wanting to work as a nurse as she grew up in her village back in Kenya with her parents and seven siblings. When Mwazi began working, she landed a job at the Kenya Medical Research Institute as a secretary. “At that time, HIV studies were being conducted to do research for a cure,â€? said Mwazi. “Even then, I dreamed of being a nurse, but there were very few opportunities.â€? Her workload now includes demanding work with COVID-19 patents. Wearing the extra protective equipment, the stress of keeping COVID-19 patients stable and running almost nonstop on 12-hour shifts – all of it is fulďŹ lling to Mwazi as a healthcare professional. It was in 2004 that her dream of becoming a

NURSE CONTINUED FROM FRONT tional Recognition Day for Nurses to be May 6, 1982. In 1991, the recognition was expanded to a week-long celebration of nurses on May 12, Florence Nightingales’ birthday. As of Wednesday afternoon, there were 2,948 Wednesday reported virus cases in Shelby County, up from 2,922 Tuesday, according to the Shelby County Health Department. The number of reported deaths from COVID-19 complications in Shelby County rose from 57 to 58. Statewide, there were 13,938 conďŹ rmed cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday, up from 13,624 on Tuesday. As of Wednesday afternoon, a reported 239 people have died in Tennessee from COVID-19 complications, according to the state health department. Clayton works on the ďŹ fth oor at Region One Health Medical Center, where some COVID-19 patients are treated. While trying her best to take care of them, she acknowledges times when she “feels so helpless.â€? Clayton said her advice to everyone is to practice social distancing. She said it is the best way to stay safe from COVID-19. “Take this serious, because it is seriousâ€? she said. Ashanti Coleman Ashanti Coleman is a traveling nurse practitioner, who gives COVID-19 tests in the drive-thru testing facilities in Frayser, at the Agricenter, in Bartlett and on Tiger Lane. Coleman said what frustrates her about the situation is that because so little is known about COVID-19, there is nothing to tell the patients to reassure them. Also, the distance created by the protective masks and extra safety garments hinders bonding with the patient. “We can’t give them that special touch,â€? she said. “We feel helpless because of the unknown,â€? said Coleman, a University of Memphis graduate and instructor. “It’s stressful for everyone

nurse felt possible. Mwazi won the green card lottery and came to America with her son. Almost immediately, she enrolled at Southwest Tennessee Community College (SWCC) to complete her prerequisites for nursing. Mwazi worked in a warehouse to care for her son. Childcare was a challenge, but she made the adjustment. “See, it’s dierent in the village,â€? Mwazi said. “When you go to work or school, there are many people who can watch your children. When I came here, there were childcare expenses. It was very strange, very dierent.â€? Mwazi ďŹ nished SWCC and took a year o and began working at Methodist Hospital. She visited her home village during her break from school and found her mother ailing. “My mother had been complaining about pain for some time,â€? Mwazi said. “She was diagnosed with liver cancer and given six months to live. I didn’t go right back, but stayed two months longer.â€? When Mwazi returned to Memphis, her mother passed three weeks later. She went back home to bury her. Mwazi was accepted into the Christian Brothers University nursing program and continued to work fulltime at Methodist Hospital. She graduated with a BSN, landed her dream

because of the unknown. We can’t educate them about something we don’t know about.â€? Coleman said one woman, who drove through the line with three children, reported testing positive for COVID-19 before and was hoping that this test would Rachel come back negative so she Clayton can go back to work at a nursing home. But Coleman said the work is rewarding in other ways. “They (patients) are still very appreciative of what we do, “she said. “People thank us all the time. It’s comforting to know they are in our corner.â€? Coleman said she is hapAshanti py to get experience with Coleman drive-through testing because the system they use here in Memphis is heavy on sanitation and workers are given as much cleaning materials as they need. “I heard a few horror stories about not having enough equipment,â€? she said. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown once again that nurses are the tip of the spear when it comes to ďŹ ghting sickness and disease. Like cold and u bugs, the virus is spread via droplets when a person coughs or sneezes. The droplets land on surfaces and are picked up on the hands of others and spread further. People catch the virus when they touch their infected hands to their mouth, nose or eyes. That is why, in testing, swabs are used in the inside of the nose or mouth, and can be uncomfortable. But the nurses say their patients don’t complain about it. It follows that the single most important thing you can do to protect yourself is keep your hands clean by washing them frequently

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Jamila SmithYoung trains pediatric nursing students by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Jamila Smith-Young has long loved the idea of being a nurse and as that love aair blossomed, she wanted to do more in the ďŹ eld. “I love working with patients,â€? she said. “But I also love training nurse practitioners. I ďŹ nd it quite rewarding.â€? Smith-Young is a nurse practitioner in the Department of Pediatric Endocrinology for UT Le Bonheur Pediatric Specialists. She is also an assistant professor for the College of NursJamila Smithing at the University Young of Tennessee Health Science Center. Board certiďŹ ed as a pediatric acute care nurse practitioner, she recently, obtained her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in 2018. What, exactly is a nurse practitioner? A nurse practitioner is an advanced practice registered nurse and mid-level practitioner. Nurse practitioners (NP) are trained to assess patient needs, order and interpret diagnostic and laboratory tests, diagnose disease and prescribe treatment plans. NP training covers basic disease prevention, coordination of care and health promotion, but does not provide the depth of expertise needed to recognize more complex conditions. According to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, NPs are educated at the graduate level to provide “primary, acute, chronic, and specialty care to patients of all ages,â€? depending on their ďŹ eld of practice. “I studied for my doctorate because I can do research, teach and still be involved in hands-on patient care,â€? SmithYoung said. She earned a bachelor’s of science degree in microbiology from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville; a B.S. in Nursing from the Baptist College of Health Sciences; a Master’s degree in Public Health; a M.S. in Nursing, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Smith-Young is the face of LeBonheur Children’s Hospital at local events and some public speaking venues. Licensed in Tennessee as an RN and an NP, Smith-Young is also board certiďŹ ed as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner-Acute Care and in Pediatric Advanced Life Support. Her many honors include: Memphis’ Finest Professional Award Recipient, 2017; Sigma Theta Tau International Honors Society of Nursing, and The International Nurses Association 2019 Top Nurses Honoree, Memphis, TN. Smith-Young is the wife of Paul Young, director of the Division of Housing and Community Development for the city of Memphis.

“I am happiest when I know I am helping,â€? said RN Deborah W. Mwazi. (Courtesy photo) RN job, and has been employed as a nurse since that time. Every other year, Mwazi visits her ďŹ ve sisters, who still live in their village. She has also traveled extensively to Germany, Italy and throughout Africa. Mwazi had plans to travel some this year, but those, of course, have been put on hold, indeďŹ nitely. As one who has seen the ravages of COVID-19, ďŹ rsthand, on both young and old, Mwazi has some advice for residents of Memphis and Shelby County. “Be cautious when you go outside. Please wear a mask. This thing is not over. Take every precaution seriously because people are still suering. People are still dying. Please take heed.â€?

Nurse practitioner Crystal Shotwell said, “When it comes to this virus there is still a lot we don’t know.â€? (Courtesy photo) with soap and water or a hand sanitizing gel. Health authorities also are urging people to stay six feet or more apart when moving around outside your home and to wear a face mask. Crystal Shotwell Crystal Shotwell, a nurse practitioner at Baptist Hospital, said she has only tested a few patients for COVID-19. She works in the neonatal department, where in the past she has not needed to. Now all patients coming into Baptist Hospital have to be tested. Shotwell said she has worried for her co-workers and friends on the front lines, working with patients, who deal with this virus daily. “I’ve had some friends aected by it,â€? Shotwell said. “Some have been quarantined. It’s scary because we’ve never had this to happen before. “When it comes to this virus there is still a lot we don’t know,â€? she said.

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The New Tri-State Defender

May 7 - 13, 2020

Page 3

NEWS “A lot of people counted me out when I got pregnant as a teenager, but God pushed me through. I’ve experienced domestic abuse and being a teenage single mother. Now, I want to be resourceful and useful to the community, and I take a lot of pride in giving back.” — Arieale Munson MOM CONTINUED FROM FRONT pairing their home. The Save Up Program is a matched savings account program that teaches participants to create a budget based on their income and expenses and to establish a bank account and purchase assets, such as homes and vehicles. Within 10 months of beginning the program, Munson had saved enough money paired with matching funds from RISE for a down payment for a home. “The program gave me a refresher on different things, such as how to increase my credit score and save money,” she said. RISE provided Munson with the tools to purchase a home, but she said her sons are the motivation for her accomplishments. “A lot of people counted me out when I got pregnant as a teenager, but God pushed me through. I’ve experienced domestic abuse and being a teenage single mother,” she said. “Now, I want to be resourceful and useful to the community, and I take a lot of pride in giving back.” Munson founded her non-profit, Operation Taking Back 901, in 2016. Three years later, she published her first book, “When Pleasing Has No Purpose,” which tells the story of how misery connected her to her ministry. She continues to live out her story despite the home-destroying fire. What she learned in the Save Up pro-

Arieale Munson and her sons, Nyigel Turner, 14, and 8-yearold Steven Cole Jr. (Courtesy photo) gram, she said, “is helping me balance my budget and still save. I’ve been working from home, bought a home, lost a home, and now I’m rebuilding a home, but I’m still advocating for my community through my non-profit.” This Mother’s Day is also her youngest son’s ninth birthday. “Our plans are to have a cake and just be together as a family. My greatest gift is seeing my kids grow up and knowing I can give them things I didn’t have.” (To learn more about the RISE Foundation and their Save Up program, visit http://risememphis.org/ programs/save-up/.)

WELLS CONTINUED FROM FRONT special citation from the selection committee. The honor comes more than 130 years after the lynching of a close friend launched her into becoming one of America’s first investigative journalists. “That is such an amazing honor,” said Wells’ great granddaughter Michelle Duster, in a video statement. “She spent her life sacrificing to tell the truth regarding lynching during her time.” Like I said, I didn’t learn any of this in school. Like African American parents have done for generations, it was my father, Eddie Lee Smith Jr., who taught me about the woman I respectfully and reverently now refer to as my “homegirl.” And those lessons took the form of places I could visit, and people I could meet. My dad has his own corner of history as the first African American mayor of Holly Springs. It was during his third term in the late 1990s that he learned that Jim Wells, Ida’s father, worked as an apprentice carpenter on the Spires-Bolling House on North Randolph Street. It was on that property that Ida B. Wells was born on July 16, 1862. And as far as my dad was concerned, that made it a historic site. He worked to get the city to acquire the Spires-Bolling House, then leased it to what was originally the Ida B. Wells-Barnett Family Art Gallery (Now the Ida B. Wells-Barnett Museum) for $1. Like both of my parents, she also attended Rust College (then Shaw University), though she was reportedly expelled after starting a dispute with the university president. My dad died in 2001. And in the years since his passing, my family’s ties to Ida B. Wells, the museum and

her family have only grown. For years, the museum has hosted an annual celebration of Wells’ birthday, including a banquet that brings her descendants from Chicago and elsewhere to Holly Springs. I’ve attended that banquet many times, even providing videography a time or two. I’ve had several conversations with her great-granddaughter Michelle Duster, who is an author in her own right. And I’m proud to be able to call Dan Duster, Wells’ great grandson, my brother in Alpha Phi Alpha. And after all of that, you might think I learned more about WHY her work mattered, but I didn’t. Once again, maybe that’s not surprising, considering that America wasn’t at all comfortable talking about the horrors of lynching (and still isn’t). I knew who Ida B. Wells was and where she was from – but for me, truly connecting the dots wouldn’t happen until January 2019. And I wasn’t even looking for her when I found her. I was researching our TSDtv series, History: Hidden in Plain Sight, when I learned of The People’s Grocery, and how a dispute among children escalated into a gunfight, and ultimately the lynching of Thomas Moss, the African Amerian owner of People’s Grocery – and a close friend of Wells. It was his murder, along with his associates Calvin McDowell and Will Stewart, that launched her on her journey as an investigative journalist. The narrative that white supremacists used to justify the institution of lynching was that black men were raping white women. And in

the absence of good reporting, that narrative might have stuck. But Wells traveled the south, documenting lynchings, talking to witnesses and reporting her findings to the American people. “The way to right wrongs is to turn the light of truth upon them,” Wells said. “It was a very brutal, violent practice and most of the people who committed these types of crimes were never brought to justice,” Michelle Duster said. “She made a whole lot of sacrifices, but she never gave up. And she left a document, a trail of firsthand information about what was going on in our country for so many years after the Civil War ended. “I’m sure that future generations, current generations can all be inspired and learn from what she did.” It really can’t be overstated how dangerous this was for her. Of course, she received death threats. Arsonists actually did come for her in 1892, burning down the offices of her newspaper, The Memphis Free Speech, but she was out of town in Philadelphia. She never returned south, settling in Chicago with her husband Ferdinand Barnett, whom she married in 1895. Many historical entries about Wells, maybe even most of them, refer to her as an “activist.” But the more I learn about her, the more I think of my “homegirl” as the pioneering journalist she was -- showing WHY the press matters in the life of a democracy. Hopefully, the Pulitzer means the rest of the world will think of her that way too.

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PERSPECTIVE The New Tri-State Defender, May 7 - 13, 2020, Page 4

Memphians, The Time is Always Right to Do What is Right by Pearl Eva Walker Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Energy is a basic necessity of daily life, whether we are flipping on a switch or plugging into a socket. While we as customers can’t shop around for who we buy energy from, Memphis’ power company, Memphis Light, Gas & Water (MLGW), is now deciding whether or not it will find a new energy provider, which could save Memphis hundreds of millions of dollars every year. This switch could lead to a better life for all Memphians and could help our community recover from the extraordinarily hard times brought about by the COVID-19 crisis. I work with the Memphis Has the Power Campaign - a campaign to ensure Memphians have affordable, equitable, and clean energy to power their lives and be successful. Together, with community organizations and leaders, we are working to achieve energy justice and create a cleaner, more prosperous Memphis. My time as an energy equity advocate has shown me how energy is tied to so many areas of our lives, like public health and transportation. After witnessing Memphis communities, especially Black and Brown, struggle with unaffordable energy, high electric bills, coal ash pollution, and lack of access to safe and affordable clean energy options like solar, I have worked to mobilize concerned citizens and to elevate their awareness, understanding, and conversation around the dangers of climate change and the importance of clean energy. My advocacy provided me with the opportunity to be a part of Memphis’ first Energy Justice Conference, hosted by Southern Alliance for Clean Energy (SACE) in 2017. In 2018, I addressed the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)

Supporters of Memphis Has the Power want Memphians to have affordable, equitable and clean energy to power their lives. (Courtesy photo)

For Pearl Eva Walker, being an energy equity advocate involves mobilizing citizens and spreading awareness. (Courtesy photo) Board regarding a fixed fee hike in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. I also traveled to Atlanta that year for the Just Energy Summit at Morehouse College sponsored by the Partnership for Southern Equity and in 2019, I attended the Climate Strike at our nation’s capital. My concerns and passion for helping my fellow Memphians and ensuring they have a just energy future led me to run for

Memphis City Council in 2019. While on the campaign trail, I participated in the Energy Democracy Tour stop in Memphis. The event, hosted by Appalachian Voices, SACE, and others, provided opportunities for community members to learn more about MLGW, TVA, and how our energy system works. Sadly, I was the only candidate present, and there were no elected officials in attendance. Yet now more than ever, Memphis’ elected officials must take action to help Memphians with their energy needs. Memphians suffer from one of the highest energy burdens in America. Energy burden is the percent of household income a household pays in energy costs. The national average is around 3% – yet in Memphis, many families with lower incomes pay upwards of 25%. In fact, Memphis has the most unaffordable energy of any major city in the nation. This poverty impedes Memphians daily and is exacerbated by volatility such as what we are experiencing today from

COVID-19, which has rendered so many of us unable to work and feeling the most severe brunt of economic hardships. Those of us who had already been paying high portions of our monthly income for energy even before the coronavirus swept through our city are especially vulnerable to hardships and uncertainties, and most in need of relief through action by our elected officials. In recent months, MLGW has been examining the possibility of breaking free from its current energy supplier, TVA, who MLGW pays about a billion dollars per year to for energy, and getting less expensive energy from a new supplier. MLGW will be releasing a report on its findings later this month, however we already know from multiple previous studies that such a switch would save hundreds of millions of dollars per year for Memphis. Herman Morris, former president of MLGW, recently said in a news story that TVA’s wholesale power costs are roughly 7.5-8 cents/kWh while an alternate supplier of energy would charge just 4-4.5 cents/ kWh. During these unprecedented times brought on by COVID-19, these savings could also help lessen the economic blow for all Memphians. We can effect positive changes for Memphis by pressing decision-makers to take swift and aggressive action that will provide access to good-paying clean energy jobs and bring more affordable and cleaner energy to Memphis. Memphians, please sign the petition urging our community leaders to do what is right for our city and help chart an equitable and clean energy future for all. Visit MemphisHasThePower.org and take action today. “The time is always right to do what is right,” Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

LOC’D IN WITH LOC

LeMoyne-Owen matching resources with targeted needs of students Among colleges and universities, HBCUs shoulder greatest need during COVID-19 An inside view as Memphis’ only HBCU (historically black college and university) navigates through the coronavirus pandemic while maintaining its mission.

by Dr. Christopher Davis Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Weeks into the pandemic, staggering data was released suggesting that African Americans were hit harder by COVID-19 than any other racial group in the country. In addition to being disproportionately impacted in our health, we are also impacted in employment, education and even day-to-day living. Our institutions of higher learning, including LeMoyne-Owen College, have been severely impacted by the immediate need for social distance practices, and while the safety of our students, faculty and staff is top priority, following closely is ensuring that our students continue to engage in coursework remotely and providing support for them to be successful during this time. I’m happy to share that over the past weeks, the Board of Trustees and College leadership have been working to assess our students’ needs

to give them targeted support, and we’ve been successful. Our most impactful strategy, however, has been advocating for student financial assistance. While Lemoyne-Owen College has the lowest tuition rate of any of the Private Colleges across the Dr. state of Tennessee, nearly Christopher 90 percent of our students Davis qualify for financial aid or currently receive Federal Pell Grants. To fill the gaps, we have applied for several streams of funding, including from the U.S. Department of Education, UNCF, Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) and others. Just last week, the U.S. Department of Education signed the CARES Act to send nearly $600M to HBCUs nationwide. Our partners and friends in the work, the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) and National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education (NAFEO), have lobbied for HBCUs and as a

result, distributed funds earmarked for tuition and scholarships to directly benefit students. And, of course, we have received gifts from our dedicated alumni network and friends in the Memphis community. We’re using those resources to address very specific needs of our students, such as computers, housing, food and technology access, as well as ensuring those who had work study jobs continue to receive pay through the Payroll Protection Act. Our goal is to ensure that our students’ financial needs are met so they can finish this semester successfully and return to school next academic year. The next phase of work is recovery. We are considering the future, which includes making necessary technology and infrastructure upgrades for blended learning, offering summer courses remotely and creating a comprehensive plan for Fall 2020. Even greater is the need for scholarship dollars to support our current and incoming students, recognizing that some of their families have suffered employment loss. This pandemic has illuminated an issue that minority institutions and HBCUs, in particular, have historically and presently face: underfunding and a lack of consistent resources. We are

grateful for the assistance provided to our institutions and students, but we know it won’t meet every need. To properly address this crisis and its layered economic effects, we simply need more financial aid for students. The UNCF is advocating for additional dollars, and LeMoyne-Owen College, a part of that network, supports this request. We continue to fortify and advance our institution to serve our students, families and community. In alignment with our short-term goals, we continue to explore innovative practices and policies to retain our current students, boost our enrollment and expand our partnerships. Although the need is great, the LOC family continues to work together with those invested in providing quality education for our scholars. If you do not currently support an HBCU financially, I encourage you to do so at this pivotal time. We are in a position to strengthen and accelerate what is already a beacon of hope for so many students, and every gift counts. Please consider giving to LeMoyne-Owen College today at www.loccares.org. (Dr. Christopher Davis chairs the LeMoyne-Owen College Board of Trustees.)

Information • Inspiration • Elevation Published by Best Media Properties, Inc. SUBSCRIPTIONS: Mailed subscriptions to The New Tri-State Defender are available upon request. One Year, $35.00; Two Years, $60.00. Request can be emailed to subscriptions@tsdmemphis.com or mailed to Subscriptions, The New TriState Defender, 203 Beale Street, Suite 200, Memphis, TN, 38103. Delivery may take one week. President Calvin Anderson Associate Publisher/ Executive Editor Karanja A. Ajanaku

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The New Tri-State Defender

May 7 - 13, 2020

Page 5

RELIGION

Lawrence Johnson with his wife, Magnolia Johnson (Courtesy photo)

LEGACY: Lawrence Johnson Spread out in social-distance mode, choir members sing praise on the parking lot. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley)

COVID-19 claims one of the city’s most prominent Realtors by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell Special to The New Tri-State Defender

COGIC CONTINUED FROM FRONT some of our spread.” COVID-19 is thought to have taken root in the latter part of 2019, not reaching the US until after the first of the year. As 2020 dawned, COGIC officials went forward with business as usual with their gatherings “And we weren’t privy to know what was going on,” said Porter. “And then when we did find out, there were such mixed signals coming from the White House and with the scientists and doctors. While some were saying it’s a pandemic, others are saying it’s a hoax. So we didn’t know who to believe.” COGIC’s “Saints” – as they are called, “got caught in the crossfire, I believe, of this whole scenario,” said Porter. “And as a result, some of them were still having a meeting in March and not knowing that they were projecting themselves into an environment that had been infectious … or that would have been a bridge for this COVID-19 to touch other lives. And I believe unequivocally that that happened.” Among the COGIC leaders felled by the coronavirus was a friend of Porter’s, Bishop T.T. Scott of Coahoma County in Mississippi. The 88-year-old Scott died in early April. He had pastored the local church since 1972. “A very, very dear friend,” said Porter. The largest of the COGIC gatherings, the Holy Convocation in St. Louis set for November, is a question mark for now. “There are mixed emotions and apprehensions about it. We’re still in discussion,” said Porter, noting that this year also is an election year within COGIC. “And so it’s a big year for us and we have no idea what’s going to happen because there’s this unforeseen, uncharted territory of ours,” he said. “But you know, Bishop Charles Mason, who’s the founder of the Church of God in Christ, canceled a Holy Convocation in 1918 (the year of the so-called ‘Spanish Flu’ pandemic outbreak.” COGIC leaders and lay people are being encouraged to “continue to communicate and stay connected with the entire denomination via email, our website and various digital and social media platforms.” And, said Presiding Bishop Blake,

Bishop Charles H. Mason Patterson Sr. delivers his sermon....if time, reverse the photos of hall and porter. “We also continue to encourage and admonish all church leaders on local, national and international levels to adhere to the guidelines outlined by the Bishop David Centers for Disease Control A. Hall and Prevention (CDC) during this unprecedented time.” The facts associated with the spread of coronavirus include its toll on the African-American c o m m u n i t y. Bishop While about 13 Brandon percent of the Porter national population, African Americans account for about 60 percent of the deaths. Porter ticked off many of the factors, including generational poverty and the lack of – or substandard – primary care and preventative care. “It’s a result of them not being able to socially distance themselves, because of the kinds of living environments they have to have, sometimes three or four people in a one-bedroom apartment. … And they’re trying to get along and not having access to proper PPE supplies … and so on.” Many African Americans, he added, are “essential workers. …Either

driving transportation, working in factories, distribution, cooking, and also health care and other things that puts them on the front line and they come back to their homes … and sharing those infections and micro-organisms and so on.” During his virtual service prior to this interview, Porter preached about the need to stay ready and prepared, drawing his next from Matthew 24:44. As the pandemic continues, Porter said it’s important for parishioners on the local level to remain faithful in giving to the church. “If you still have employment and income, or increase, you can give to your church so that your church won’t go into foreclosure or have to shut down as a result of having no income. … And the reason being is that when we get through this, and we will, you’re going to need your church again.” Part of Porter’s role is to make the churches privy to available relief funds, which has meant contact with White House personnel. At Temple COGIC – “The Mother Church,” Bishop David A. Hall is multi-focused relative to the pandemic and keenly locked in on where the African-American community goes post-pandemic. “We’ve got to get the resolve to fight our way through by any means necessary, and come out on the other side stronger, if possible,” he said. “We’ve got to come out of this stronger if possible, with more independence, and …having more money, and more means. Now, that’s the challenge….

The death of Memphis Realtor, Lawrence Johnson, 80, quickly traveled across social media outlets Monday morning. Daryle Barnes shared on Facebook that Johnson – the founder of Lawrence Johnson Realtors – was “one of my idols.” Scores of condolences and prayers for his family were posted as the news was shared repeatedly over the course of the week. Although it has been confirmed that Mr. Johnson died from complications of COVID-19, his children said their father should be remembered for how he lived, not how he died. All three work at his realty office. “Our father always put Christ first in everything he did,” said his daughter, Elaine DeVerne Johnson-Miles. “He would begin every office meeting with a prayer and a song.” Johnson-Miles said her father helped many, many people buy their first home, even if they had credit problems. He would help work through their credit issues. “Our dad always said he wanted to be as kind to everyone as he would be to his own children.” The younger son, Eric Johnson, remembered the advice his father gave him in 2005 when Eric first received his real estate license. “My father told me never to take advantage of anyone and put them in a house they can’t afford,” Eric Johnson said. “Some real estate agents would do it for bigger commissions.” The eldest child, Spencer Johnson, lauded his father for his strong leadership in the community, church and in his family. “Our father was loving, kind, and generous,” said Spencer Johnson. “And he had a great sense of humor. He could make anybody laugh, and he never met a stranger.” It was widely known that Mr. Johnson would bring

kids in to do odd jobs around the office so they could earn some money and stay out of trouble. He would talk to young people about being obedient to their parents and developing a strong work ethic. Mr. Johnson established Lawrence Johnson Realtors more than 40 years ago, helping many aspiring realtors get started in the local real estate market. The company also managed single-resident, rental properties, as well as apartment buildings. Mr. Johnson holds the distinction of being the first African-American to become a Lifetime member of the Memphis Area Association of Realtors Multi-Million Sales Club. He was a member of the National Association of Realtors, the Tennessee Association of Realtors, the Memphis Area Association of Realtors, the Northwest Mississippi Association of Realtors and the National Association of Real Estate Brokers. Mr. Johnson was working full-time at his Whitehaven office when he contracted the virus during the latter part of April. After a weeklong stay in Methodist South Hospital, he was released and returned to his home, where he died Monday. In addition to his three children, Johnson is survived by his wife, Magnolia; a brother, Harold Johnson; a sister, DeVerne Howell; four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Services have been set for May 9. Visitation is scheduled from 9 a.m. until noon at Middle Baptist Church, 801 Whitehaven Lane in Whitehaven. Only 10 viewers will be allowed inside the sanctuary at a time. Everyone in attendance is asked to wear a mask and observe social distancing of six feet apart. The funeral service will begin at noon. Only 150 people will be allowed to attend because of COVID-19 safety precautions. R.S. Lewis and Sons Funeral Home has charge. For more information, call 901526-3264.

The New Tri-State Defender, May 7 - 13, 2020, Page 6

iMOM

My mom is the ‘shero’ I want to be for my daughter by Brittany Holst Special to The New Tri-State Defender

I am so used to spending Mother’s Day with my grandmother, mother, aunt and the rest of my family. However, due to COVID-19, things will be a little different this year. We have to be creative as we continue to practice social distancing. Although Mother’s Day is not considered a national holiday, it is a special day to honor the special woman or even women in our lives. I’m looking forward to video conferencing with my loved ones while spending time with my husband and our daughter, Niah. My mother has been a blessing to me. I look at her and think, “Wow! Where would I be now had I not been catered with all the unconditional love and knowledge she has provided me?” I tell her all the time that I hope I am just as great of a mom to my daughter as she has been to me. I would not be the person I am today had it not been for my mom. Growing up, I did not always understand my mother’s reason for doing things. But as I got older, I understood why there were times when she wouldn’t allow me to go here and there and do other things I wanted to do. From a very early age, she put a lot of emphasis on education, community service, faith, being creative and having a competitive spirit in sports and other activities. I remember when my mom was helping

me learn to tell time on a clock. She did fun things like driving near the airport and parking the car to watch the airplanes come in. We would use the directions of the planes landing as imaginary hands on the clock. I would say, “it’s coming in at 9 o’clock” or “it’s coming from 3 o’clock.” We would laugh and give “high fives.” That’s when she knew I understood the workings of the clock and how to tell time. We did everything together. I gained my entrepreneurial spirit from her. Mom told me, “You can do anything you want to do and you can be whatever you want to be in life. She said, “it takes hard work and determination to make it happen”. Though gentle and loving, she also was not one to play with. If my mom said to do or not do something, she meant it. She would say, “If you don’t believe me, try me.” I tested her a few times to see if “fat meat was greasy” and she did not hesitate to show me that it was. After that, I got my act together because I knew my mama did not play games with me. Now, I look at my own daughter and find joy every time she smiles. She is so precious and I recognize with her, a love like no other. I have discovered a more patient and compassionate side of me that I’d never known. I can share experiences with her that my mother shared with me -- being the first teacher, nurturer, providing loving guidance to help mold her to be successful in life. Whitney Daniels, mother to Paul and Paris, said, “Being a mother means the

TSD iMom columnist Brittany Holst enjoys a pre-Mother’s Day moment with her daughter, Niah, and her mother, Shirley Jackson. (Courtesy photo) world to me. I always hear people say, ‘I don’t know where I would be in like’ or ‘I don’t know what I would do if I didn’t have my kids.” Those statements have never made a difference to her because “nothing means more to her than being a mom.” It has completely changed her life for the better! “Being a mom means loving myself so much more than I have before. That same love is magnified so much more because it grows rapidly every day for me to give to my children. You would think that love can’t possibly be greater but it doesn’t stop there,” said Daniels. The relationship between mother and child is so pure and innocent. “My children reciprocate the same love unconditionally to the point it has become an everlasting circle of love. It’s selfless. It’s the most comforting when the times come that I don’t feel deserving of

it and it’s assuring that, although, I’m not a perfect mother, I’m exactly the one they need,” Daniels said. Legendary composer, singer and musician Stevie Wonder said it best: “Mama was my greatest teacher, a teacher of compassion, love and fearlessness. If love is sweet as a flower, then my mother is that sweet flower of love.” Mother’s Day is a day of celebrating the living and a day to acknowledge special loved ones who has passed away. However you decide to celebrate, do so with love and appreciation. From the iMom -- Being a mother is not always easy, but it is one of the greatest gifts from God. We are our child’s first teacher. We’re strong and wise. We are nurturers and providers. We are the definition of love, patience, compassion and forgiveness. Happy Mother’s Day to all mothers and thank you for your unconditional love and sacrifices.

#ACCESS901

Black Mama’s Day Bailout A different kind of homecoming by Joy Doss Special to The New Tri-State Defender

There are things we know and that are actively discussed. Like, black men are the most negatively impacted by the criminal justice system. We know that black, Latino, migrant and poor people are subjected to longer, harsher sentences than other groups. But what we don’t think about is how black women are impacted. Women need a different type of support. Sometimes they don’t have access to basic feminine hygiene needs while in holding. Depending on how long they’re in jail, who is available to give them health checks like mammograms and pap smears? And, generally, the longer a person sits in jail, the more likely they are to take a plea bargain. Enter the Black Mama’s Day Bailout, which is under the umbrella of the Official Black Lives Matter Memphis organization. It was launched in 2017 to address the needs of moms and caregivers (male or female presenting, trans, gender non-conforming). I spoke with organizer Shahidah Jones. She is so passionate! Talking to her is like Sunday service! “Black Mama’s Day Bailout was started to show the impact on families of the imbalances in the system and to mitigate those imbalances and lack access,” she said. “When you think of a criminal you don’t think of them as mamas right?”

As the system tends to dehumanize and divorce offenders from their humanity, BLM and the bailout initiatives challenge the images and narratives. Yes, this person did this thing, but she is also a person and a Joy mama. We see black Doss mamas as the centerpiece of the community, so what do you think happens to the family/community structure if mama is stuck in jail? The goal for this Mama’s Day is to raise $50,000. This will provide bail for five people with bonds up to $10,000. They do not use bail bondsmen and they do not bail people out without their consent. They also address recidivism by following up with the families to make sure they have what they need. And not in the “well-meaning” way. They ask them what they need so that they can help put them in a position to thrive. The biggest deficits tend to be addiction support, mental health support and homelessness. I was definitely schooled over the course of this 45-minute conversation. There are so many things that we need to rethink altogether – restorative justice, crime versus harm, the entire court system process, crimes of survival and of course the way we consume imagery. Shahidah breaks it down. “There is a difference between crime and

Shahidah Jones harm. Many times, a crime has been committed but no personal harm was done. I don’t take away the value of things lost but there are a wide variety of ways that people are criminalized without causing harm or loss (of life or quality of life.” For instance, she says, “(People who are jailed for) fees and fines, failure to appear… they are (also) impacted by the system.” Then there’s the process. You may have to appear in court a minimum of three times for something as simple as your tail light being out, jaywalking, speeding or disorderly conduct. Or, if someone makes bail, the judge can decide to forgo assigning them a public defender. For people who are in a precarious financial situation or don’t have the luxury

of missing work, even one day can have a disastrous effect on their livelihood. Who takes care of the kids? What if your job finds out? Some companies can use the “character clause” as a reason to fire an employee. The bailout project(s) has become critical for vulnerable populations. For many, even a $100 or $200 bail could lead to a strain on the household. To date, 50 people have been bailed out through the Black Mama’s Day Bailout. (To donate: www.midsouthpeace.org/ blm or via cashapp: $officialblmmemphis. If you know someone in jail and awaiting trial, contact the BLM Office at 901-7083159, ext.102. If they’re calling from jail, they can call the google voice number: 901-286-2210.)

The New Tri-State Defender

May 7 - 13, 2020

Page 7

ENTERTAINMENT ALL OVER TOWN

Indie Memphis Movie Club virtual discussion w/ Director Robert Townsend by Brianna A Smith Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Although Indie Memphis postponed all upcoming events as a precaution to help reduce the spread of COVID-19, they still found a way to use their resources to educate and support independent filmmakers during this time. On last Tuesday, Indie Memphis Movie Club held a virtual discussion with actor and director Robert Townsend. Artistic Director Miriam Bale lead the discussion; she opened the segment introducing Townsend Brianna as the “Godfather of A. Smith Black Independent Film”. Over the past 30plus years Townsend has made a name for himself in black homes across the country as a trailblazing filmmaker who uses his talent to uplift people of color. He is the mastermind behind films such as, Hollywood Shuffle, The Five Heartbeats, B*A*P*S, The Meteor Man, Holiday Heart, Eddie Murphy Raw, and one of my all -time favorite’s Carmen: A Hip Hopera. The discussion focused mainly on his debut film Hollywood Shuffle, a satirical look at what it was like to be a black actor in Tinseltown. The film stamped Townsend’s place in the industry as a filmmaker. “We have a lot of filmmakers tuned in today,” said Bale. “Can you share your experience in creating Hollywood Shuffle?” Townsend was inexperienced—he didn’t go to film school and hadn’t directed a film—but he was determined to tell a story about being marginalized by the industry. In 1984, he had a small role in the Oscar-nominated A Soldier’s Story. “I told my agent I want to do more movies like this,” said Townsend. “My agent was like, ‘Robert, they only do one black movie a year. You just did it. Be happy.′” But Townsend wasn’t satisfied. “I thought my dream of being an artist was dying, because at the time, the only roles I

“I don’t want to take credit, but I just know that we planted seeds that it was okay to be funny, to write-direct-produce.” — Robert Townsend was auditioning for were slaves and pimps and stereotypes of basketball players who couldn’t read,” Townsend says. “It was frustrating.” “Then I started talking to my good friend Keenan Wayans (actor and filmmaker) about us doing a movie about our lives and that’s how it all started.” Townsend and Wayans wrote the script together but because the film didn’t have a studio backing, Townsend was faced with financing the film on his own. “The idea of somebody writing, directing, producing, and starring in a movie, especially a person of color, wasn’t heard of then,” said Townsend. “Everybody said the bar was so high in Hollywood, you couldn’t get in if you

Indie Memphis Artistic Director Miriam Bale conducts an interview the virtual way with Robert Townsend. (Screen capture) didn’t have millions and millions of dollars.” Eventually, Townsend raised $100,000 to make Hollywood Shuffle, using $60,000 he earned from acting gigs and $40,000 using credit cards. Robert Townsend helped Townsend to kick the door wide open for black talent in the late 80s—ushering in a fertile period of comedic and dramatic films starring black actors in complex roles that were also directed by black directors. “I don’t want to take credit, but I just know that we planted seeds that it was okay to be funny, to write-direct-produce,” Townsend said. “When people heard the

story of Hollywood Shuffle and how we did it, I think it gave inspiration to a lot of filmmakers to say, ‘If Robert can do it with a credit card, I can do it.’” The discussion was informative and inspiring to filmmakers. Bale closed out the conversation asking Townsend what many viewers tuned in to see, “How does someone make a film for less than $100,000 now?” Townsend replied, “These new iPhone’s don’t need a lot of extra lights. Use your resources, find a location and write the script around that location.” “Always remember that the acting and story telling is most important when creating a film.” (Check out the discussion here: https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kug1XPOlKOA&t=273s.)

COMMUNITY The New Tri-State Defender, May 7 - 13, 2020, Page 8

Living with COVID-19 – Part VI by Jerome Wright Special to The New Tri-State Defender

This is the sixth installment of The New TriState Defender’s ongoing account of three Memphians coping with the coronavirus amid government-directed efforts to slow the virus’ spread. Getting back to work Barber William Gandy Jr. is looking forward to getting back to work at his Whitehaven barbershop, Trimmers, on Monday. A new health directive for Shelby County allowed hair salons and barbershops to open Wednesday (May 6), under strict guidelines, in the first phase of the Back to Business plan for Memphis and Shelby County. But, Gandy, his fellow barbers and the owner of the Trimmers shops around the city needed time to prepare. “We’re going back Monday. We have a whole lot of guidelines to prepare to get ready before we can reopen. You just can’t get back on track in two seconds,” Gandy said. Those guidelines are: ■ Checking employee temperatures before they enter the work area, and not allowing employees to enter if they have a fever or other COVID-19 symptoms. ■ Stocking the workplace with hand sanitizer, soap and sanitizing wipes. ■ Maintaining an appointment book with customer details. ■ All employees should wear face coverings and gloves when providing services. ■ Items such as capes, smocks and neck strips should be one-time use between cleanings or disposable. ■ Work stations should be at least six feet apart. ■ Customers must be served by appointment, with walk-ins permitted if they wait in their vehicle. ■ Unless a customer is a minor, non-customer companions may not be allowed to accompa-

ny customers during a service. Gandy said the shop’s owner is trying to find disposal capes and thermometers, and he is going to relax the booth-rental fee “to give us a chance to catch up” (on their finances). Gandy and his co-workers are independent contractors. “We’re in business for ourselves. We just rent the space,” he said. He plans to schedule customer visits 30 minutes apart, figuring that will give him enough time to finish a haircut and sanitize his equipment before his next customer arrives. “The most important thing for us is to make sure the customer is safe, along with us,” Gandy said. Barber shops have long had the distinction of be social gathering spots, as well as a place to get quaffed. That especially is true for shops that cater to an African-American clientele. For example, the banter between the barbers, or between the barbers and the customers, can be highly entertaining and extremely funny. When you add the people who constantly pop in and out just to say hello, drop off food to the barbers or to sell various items, the barber shop is a pretty lively place. Gandy calls it “a big social club,” where all kinds of people come together to get a haircut. All that will change now, he said, because of the virus. “We will be keeping the doors locked to keep people from drifting in and out,” he said. Rethinking who needs help Margaret Cowan, founding keeper of the nonprofit I Am My Sister’s Keeper, and her three daughters spent Saturday (May 2) helping distribute about 300 bags of food in Cordova. They represented I Am My Sister’s Keeper to help distribute the food with Living Grace Inc., a nonprofit that advocates for homeless unaccompanied youth and young adults, which had partnered with the Mid-South Food Bank. Cowan said her initial thought was why would people in Cordova, one of the city’s more well-to-do areas, need bags of food? “But then you realize these people aren’t

Margaret Cowan (right) and Sheleah Grace of Living Grace, Inc. at the food giveaway in Cordova. (Courtesy photo)

Evan Fields with Ayden Christopher, 2, and Taylor Christopher, 7. (Courtesy photo)

working either (because of layoffs and furloughs resulting from the COVID-19 virus). They were really grateful,” she said. I Am My Sister’s Keeper works with single working mothers to increase their earning potential.

‘Special gift’ for Mother’s Day, despite the coronavirus threat

Sticking with drive through James Cook has been cutting grass and working for a Lenny’s franchisee since he had to close his two businesses in Memphis International Airport – Runway 901 Bar & Grill and Lenny’s Grill and Subs – in March because of a lack of airport passenger traffic. And, although local restaurants were allowed to restart limited dine-in business Monday (May 4), Cook said the franchisee he works for plans to continue allowing drive through only. “We’re not going into in-house dining just yet,” Cook said. “We’re still successful with our drive through.” He added, “We’re not going to jeopardize our safety or our customers’.” Cook said people have been “pleading” with him to reopen his airport Lenny’s to add more diversity to the dining offerings there. He is still waiting for a significant uptick in passenger traffic before reopening.

Not even the global pandemic can squelch desire to serve at Cash Saver by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell Special to The New Tri-State Defender

The grocery business has required an “interesting adjustment” since the outbreak of COVID-19 in Memphis, said Rick James, Cash Saver grocery store chain owner. “This is a time we have never experienced before,” James said. “People need to feel safe, and so we have required every employee to wear a face covering and gloves while working in all our stores. “Being safe from the coronavirus will be utmost in our minds for some time to come. I think it will be a while before things return to anything resembling ‘back to normal.’ Masks, gloves and social distancing is our new normal.” For the past few weeks, James’ Castle Retail Group LLC has made temporary changes to maximize their service to a community under siege as Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee and Memphis Mayor and Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris issued safer-at-home mandates to try to slow the spread of the virus. Those mandates included closing restaurant dining areas, bars, barber shops and beauty salons. This week, however, those restrictions were relaxed this week when new health directive for Shelby County will allow hair salons and barbershops to open Wednesday in the first phase of the Back to Business plan for Memphis and Shelby County. Restaurant also were allowed to reopen this week, but with strict guidelines to protect patrons and employees. “We’ve had our ups and downs, but never have we faced this kind of challenge,” James said. “Restaurants and bars closed down, and people started staying at home cooking again. And if they are cooking again, they need groceries and other supplies. “Children are eating at home, so business was extremely steady. In addition to wearing protective gear, we closed our stores earlier than our normal business hours. But in a grocery store, social distancing is kind of difficult, but we do our best to comply.” “This gave us time to sanitize our store every day and receive the food trucks. We used that

Rick James time to make sure everything was fully stocked. Things like toilet paper and sanitizing wipes were hard to keep up with because those were some of the first things people stocked up on. “Despite the challenges, we are committed to providing the best service we possibly can. Some of our employees have been with me the whole 30 years since I came to Memphis. We are all like a family, not part of a big corporation. The communities we serve are part of our family, and family takes care of one another.” James is a first-generation grocer. His father made women’s shoes, but the elder James saw the future of shoemaking trend toward international markets. So, he steered his son into the accounting field. “After I graduated with a degree in accounting, I went to work for a national grocery retailer,” said James. “But I had always liked working in a grocery store as a kid. So instead of going to work in the accounting office, I went through the manager training program. I worked with Big Stars and Piggly Wigglys in 16 different places. When I moved to Memphis, that was my 17th time moving. I married my wife, Cathy, and three weeks later, we moved to Memphis. We love Memphis.” In 2004, James bought four grocery stores. One owner had passed away, and the other one was ready to retire,” James recalled. “I was

working in their stores with the understanding that I would take over at some point. I was blessed to have a wonderful wife who had faith in me and believed in what my dream was. We both knew what we were getting into. With your own business, you’ll have your ups and downs. But we still love the grocery business.” In 2011, James made a calculated move from the conventional grocery business to the “deep discount” grocery market. Deep discount grocers off consumers quality products using a store-brand strategy to offer both value and excellence that saves them big bucks in monthly grocery budgeting. Cash Saver is one of the most popular deep discount grocery chains in the country. James’ three stores are situated in communities where consumers seek a clean, friendly grocery which offers an attractive, cost-saving alternative to conventional grocery store chains with higher prices. Cash Saver stores appeal, not only to shoppers looking to stretch grocery dollars, but also to consumers who can afford to shop elsewhere. “We are marking our 16th anniversary this year in the grocery business,” said James. “And I still love the business. Our three children have graduated from college and have all come to work in the business. “Two of them graduated from the University of Memphis. But to have them all working with me, I couldn’t be happier. To know that they will continue the business when I am gone, every business owner wants that.” James has always gotten a good laugh when he tells people his name. “When I tell people my name is Rick James, it’s always good for a little fun,” James said. “I remember when the Super Freak album came out in 1981. I was working in Elizabethtown, Kentucky. One of my store employees bought the album and brought the poster from the album to work. He put it on my desk with a little note, saying, ‘Mr. James, may I have your autograph?’ That was great fun. I always tell people that I do know all the words to the song, but I can’t sing.” Castle Retail Group’s three Cash Saver stores are located at: 1620 Madison Ave. in Midtown; 4049 Elvis Presley Blvd. in Whitehaven; and 1977 S. Third St., in the Southgate Shopping Center.

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell Special to The New Tri-State Defender

It was back in December that Evan Fields and fiancé, Christian Christopher, got a new gift in their household: six-year-old Taylor Christian. This will be Fields’ third Mother’s Day celebration on Sunday, and she is now mother of two, instead of one. “Right before the Christmas holidays, Christian and I asked for full custody of Taylor,” Fields said. “The court granted it to us, and Taylor came to live with us that same day. He is home now, and not just for the weekend.” That first Mother’s Day, Fields was mother of four-month-old Ayden Christopher, born January 6, 2018. Mother’s Day last year, she had a one-year-old. This year, she will celebrate with two sons. Not even the COVID-19 threat and safer-at-home directives have dampened her anticipation for Sunday. “We know everything is opening back up, but we will be inside until it’s really safe,” said Fields. “Before everything got shut down, we had planned a trip to Nashville so the boys could see their Aunt Chris. But when Taylor came home for spring break, that all changed.” Fields thinks there may be some unexpected, positive effects from families staying inside together. Being in close proximity naturally brings parents and siblings closer, she says. Fields is a working mother, but has no idea when she might be called back to her bartending job at one of the large, downtown hotels. She was laid off, along with thousands of other bar and restaurant employees who make their living in the service industry. Some have relied on unemployment, while others are still waiting for payments to begin. Some service workers went to work for B.R. Distilling Company in April. The distillery, which normally makes bourbon and whiskey, now produces medical-grade sanitizer. When all the bars closed, B.R. Distilling tried to keep their employees working by switching gears to a product in high demand. Enough supplies came in to make the sanitizer, but there weren’t enough employees to produce the sanitizer in high quantities. Outof-work service people were offered jobs at the distillery. Fields declined. “Being a stay-at-home mom is totally new to me,” she said. “But, we have grown closer as a family. This pandemic is frightening for children, and they don’t really understand. We are here to assure our boys that one day, they can play outside again, and things will be better.” The family has no special plans for this Mother’s Day. They won’t be getting out to church or going to a restaurant. Since being in at home, they have eaten no fast food, or brought in takeout from a restaurant. There has only been home cooking. “We eat healthier now, and that’s been good,” said Fields. “Always picking up fast food is one thing we won’t go back to. Staying in has been good for us. Taylor has settled into his place in our family. We feel blessed and complete.” “Stepson” or “step-child” are not terms used in their household. “Our sons are brothers, and we are their parents,” said Fields. “They know we love them, and that is enough.”

The New Tri-State Defender

May 7 - 13, 2020

Page 9

COMMUNITY

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY

Young mother gives birth in pandemic, still hopeful for future of her children by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell Special to The New Tri-State Defender

On Feb, 26, when Joanna Lewis Walton gave birth to Journey Gracelynn Walton, the delivery was relatively uneventful. Shortly after they came home, COVID-19 changed life as they knew it, including the fact that she will not be able to traditionally celebrate Mother’s Day – church and dinner – as new mother because COVID-19 related restrictions. When Walton and her husband, Andre Walton Sr., brought their baby daughter home, their family felt complete. A.J was getting to know Journey, but a bout with the flu forced A.J. to be separated from his mom and sister. After his father nursed him back to health, little family settled into a daily routine. But by the time Journey was turning 6 weeks old, everything changed. “The school children were released early that week when spring break was starting,” said Walton. “I had been in the house with my children since leaving the hospital. That’s pretty normal for a new mother. I was rebuilding my strength and trying to get Journey into a good feeding and sleeping routine.” More and more, there was talk about a “novel coronavirus,” and Walton took some interest in keeping up with the growing numbers of new cases in America. For a time, none had been confirmed in the state of Tennessee, or in Shelby County. When that changed and the number of local cases began to rise, they were unrelated cases of people who had traveled, or come in contact with someone who had recently traveled. “We were just nesting while my husband continued to work,” Walton said. “But when community spread hit Memphis and Shelby County, I understood just how dangerous this COVID-19 was. “I have kept my children isolated from everyone, except their grandparents. With the safer-at-home orders, we

continue to shelter in place. The four of us have created our own little world inside the house.” Walton graduated from the University of Memphis with a bachelor’s degree in professional studies. She marked her fourth wedding anniversary on March 19, her birthday on April 20, and now, Mother’s Day on Sunday — all celebrated inside the house. “All of my special days come in springtime each year,” she said. “My anniversary, my birthday, and Mother’s Day — it feels strange not being able to celebrate them like we had planned. There will be no special date nights or family trips. “On Mother’s Day every year, we were always in church. Life has changed so drastically, and I don’t know when things will return to normal — or if they ever will,” she said. Andre Sr. has used this time of “nearly unlimited overtime” to build a nest egg that will come in handy when the family moves to a large house this summer, if things are a bit safer. “I would love for my children to play outside,” Andre Sr. said. “I would love to run around the yard with my son and toss a ball to him. But he is young enough that staying inside won’t affect him so much. I thank God he will have very little memory of this time.” Walton has been optimistic as a new mother caring for two, young children. She has been home-schooling A.J. since his first birthday. Walton has gotten accustomed to the rambunctious 2 year old tearing about the house. He has a lot of energy, but he can’t play outside. “We have been blessed, and I can really see an end to this virus,” Walton said. “As a mother, it is my job to prepare our children for a bright future. My son will be three in the fall, and already, he can count to 60, recite the alphabet, and name his colors. “I am now teaching him to read. Our children emulate what they see. They are hopeful because we remain hopeful. Mother’s Day is going to be a wonderful day. God is still in control.”

Happy Mother’s Day to Anne Carter Nelson. Thank you for being the perfect Mother. We love you. Deidre, Austin, Dawn, John and Kelly

Happy Mother’s Day to Ms. Norma Lester. Thank you for always being there for me and so many others. Love, Deidre Malone

Happy Mother’s Day to Brittany Malone. Thank you for being such a good daughter and mother to our Bailee! We love you! Deidre and Patrick Malone

Joanna Lewis Walton and her husband, Andre Walton Sr., will celebrate Mother’s Day with their two-year-old “A.J” and their newest addition, Journey Gracelynn Walton, who was born Feb. 26. (Courtesy photo)

Thanks for being such an incredible Mom. We love you! Calley Anderson and Lauren Anderson King Happy Mother’s Day to an outstanding Mom Gerturde Anderson. From Carolyn, Earl, Barbara and Calvin

We’re Known By the Money you Keep!

ONLINE SHOPPING SHOP

online at memphiscashsaver.com

DROP by our store for pick-up

& ROLL!

Pick up your purchases and be on your way!

* Madison, Whitehaven & South Third St. locations

Mixed Fryer Parts

5 Lb. Bag Frozen 8-Piece Whole Cut-Up, USDA Inspected

48

¢

Lb.

Plus 10% Added at Checkout

King Cotton

Sliced Bacon

40 Oz. Pkg., Hickory Smoked

6

King Cotton

Breakfast Patties 28 Oz., 18 Ct. Box

2

$ 36

$ 48

Plus 10% Added at Checkout

Plus 10% Added at Checkout

PRICES GOOD APRIL 29, 2020 - MAY 12, 2020 MIDTOWN: 1620 Madison Ave. WHITEHAVEN: 4049 Elvis Presley Blvd. SOUTH MEMPHIS: 1977 S. Third St. OAKHAVEN: 3237 Winchester Rd. See the Memphis Cash Saver grocery ad at memphiscashsaver.com

The New Tri-State Defender

May 7 - 13, 2020

Page 10

We’ll get through this COVID-19 health challenge together. We’re here for you every step of the way.

To help you get the health care you need, we’ve: Waived member costs for COVID-19 treatment until May 31, 2020. That means if you’re diagnosed with COVID-19, you won’t have to pay for your treatment with network providers. Eliminated member costs associated with COVID-19 testing. That means if you’re tested, you won’t have to pay for the test or doctor visit for it. Relaxed rules for safer access to prescriptions. That means you can get early refills and 90-day mail order refills on your maintenance medications so you can shelter at home easier. Expanded telehealth care options. That means you can have a video or phone visit with your in-network providers who offer it, keeping you safer at home.

We’re also helping feed Tennesseans. Many in our state sadly are worried where their next meal will be coming from. Our BlueCross Foundation donated $3.25 million to food banks across our state to help all our neighbors.

1 Cameron Hill Circle | Chattanooga, TN 37402 | bcbst.com BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, Inc., an Independent Licensee of the BlueCross BlueShield Association

We can’t remove the threat or fear this virus has created. But we can make it easier for you to get the care you need.

We’re right here for Tennessee. To learn more, please visit BCBSTupdates.com.

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