4 18 2012

‘Women of Excellence’

VOL. 61, No. 16

One Section/Inserts

Field of tough choices yields 2012 honorees 5th Annual Gala set for April 28

On the way…

Minister Louis Farrakhan of the Nation of Islam will deliver the keynote address during the Diversity Leadership Conference at The LeMoyne-Owen College on April 14 beginning at 6:30 p.m. in Brownlee Hall/Johnson Gymnasium. (Photo courtesy of The Final Call)

Justice for Trayvon a step closer

Community response generated 90-plus nominations for The New Tri-State Defender’s 2012 Women of Excellence.

“We had a phenomenal response from the community this year,” said Bernal E Smith II, President and Publisher of The New Tri-State Defender (TSD). “We also had a hard time narrowing it down because each and every one was deserving of the honor in her own right, but ultimately we were able to select a phenomenal group of sisters for 2012 of which we are very proud.”

TSD’s 2012 “Women of Excellence” will be hailed by their peers, family, friends and community

April 12 - 18, 2012

E W

list ofOF TSD honorees WSee OMEN E XCELLENCE on page 13. leaders in a Grand Champagne Brunch and Awards Presentation on Sat., April 28 at 10 a.m. at the Memphis Botanic Gardens, 750 Cherry Road.

The annual event celebrates and honors African-American women who motivate and inspire others through their vision and leadership, exceptional achievements and personal contribution to the community.

“This spring celebration gives us the chance to say thank you to those who have been consistently committed to the highest principles of servant leadership and posiSEE WOMEN ON PAGE 13

www.tristatedefender.com

75 Cents

Erma Lee Laws: pioneer activist, writer, educator Longtime TSD columnist dies at 81 Special to the Tri-State Defender

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell The colorful landscape of AfricanAmerican society in Memphis in the 1950’s garnered respect and distinction, thanks largely to the vision and insight of one woman – Erma Lee Laws, according to those who were close. Laws passed Monday afternoon (April 9) at Methodist University Hospital. She was 81.

“Erma started with the Sengstacke family back in the very early days at the Tri-State Defender,” said Wiley Henry, former assistant editor and

Back to Beale in Brass

graphic artist for the newspaper.

“She wrote the society column and edited the Lifestyle page.

Back in the day when blacks were excluded from Cotton Carnival festivities and other mainstream Erma Lee events, Erma Laws wrote about the people and occasions that gave us our own social identity. She gave us something to be proud of, something all our own.”

SEE ERMA ON PAGE 13

The New Tri-State Defender Staff

With the name “Trayvon Martin” having become a cry for the wheels of justice to get rolling, a Florida special prosecutor announced the filing of a second-degree murder charge against the 17 year old’s killer, George Zimmerman, on Wednesday.

During an afternoon press conference that had people throughout the nation focused on their televisions, Angela Corey delivered news that protesters in myriad cities had sought – Zimmerman was under Trayvon arrest for the fatal Martin shooting of the unarmed Martin.

The Rev. Al Sharpton of the National Action Network appeared with Martin’s parents following Corey’s announcement and credited her for the job done. He noted that had there been no arrest or a charge, he and others would be condemning Corey and the person who appointed her to the case, Fla. Gov. Rick Scott.

“We must say that despite the fact that we are different political parties SEE TRAYVON ON PAGE 3

- INSIDE -

• Dr. King deserves more than a sliver of a desolate street. See Opinion, page 4.

• ‘The Soul of a City’ exhibit to focus on African American art. See Entertainment, page 10.

• Breast cancer not a death sentence, if caught early See Health, page 12.

MEMPHIS WEEKEND

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

H- 7 9o - L - 6 0o P a r tl y C l oud y

H- 8 1o - L - 6 4o P a r tl y C l ou dy

H- 8 2o - L - 6 7o Cl o udy

REGIONAL TEMPS LITTLE ROCK NASHVILLE JACKSON, MS

Friday H-81 L-62 H-72 L-52 H-82 L-59

Saturday H-82 L-67 H-81 L-59 H-85 L-65

Sunday H-84 L-68 H-80 L-61 H-86 L-69

Memphis born and internationally acclaimed Jazz saxophonist Charles Lloyd (third from right) was honored with a brass note on Beale Streetʼs Walk of Fame on Wednesday (April 11). The occasion marked Lloydʼs first appearance in Memphis since 1964, thanks to the efforts of Rhodes Collegeʼs Mike Curb Institute for Music. (Photo by Shirley Jackson)

‘No’ vote stalls bill on Municipal districts Martavius Jones takes fight to Nashville Special to the Tri-State Defender

by Tony Jones

A giant thud resounded Wednesday in Nashville as the Tennessee House of Representatives closed a door that would have allowed the suburbs surrounding Memphis to forego participation in a merged Memphis and Shelby County school system.

Wednesday’s decision derailed a 17-8 vote in the Senate on Monday. By that nine-vote margin, the Senate had adopted an amendment allowing the smaller cities surrounding Memphis to opt out of the federally mandated consolidated school system. And, just as importantly, to conduct referendums to determine whether residents in those areas were willing to fund and run their own independent school systems.

The House vote notwithstanding, the matter may not be dead.

Senate Majority Leader Mark Norris (R-Collierville) has voiced his intention to pursue a way around the snag. It was Norris who crafted

the municipal-referendum amendment that garnered majority support in the Senate on Monday.

In the House on Wednesday, the pending municipal-district referendum amendment, which was linked to an unrelated education bill, crashed into concern that the legislation could create a flood of new special school districts across the state. TSD calls to Norris, as well as Rep. John Deberry (DMemphis), who is on the House Education Committee hearing the bill, had not be returned by press time.

While he cannot – and does not try to – claim any credit for the House’s nay vote, Unified School Board Member Martavius Jones did traveled to Nashville this week to voice opposition to the municipal-district referendum amendment.

“I wanted to make the point that what they were doing was simply pushing this back into the courts because the legislation is aimed specifically at Shelby County, and that is unconstitutional,” said Jones, who also is a member of the Transition Planning Commission SEE SCHOOLS ON PAGE 13

Grizz mojo…

The Grizzlies defeated the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday (April 11) at the FedExForum, extending the winning streak to four. See story on page 14. (Photo by Warren Roseborough)

Page 2

April 12 - 18, 2012

Tri-State Defender

Tri-State Defender

TRAYVON

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

and different political persuasions, that tonight maybe America can come together and say that only the facts should matter when you are dealing with a loss of life,” said Sharpton.

Nameless, faceless people of myriad persuasions applied the pressure that led to a review of the original decision not to prosecute Zimmerman, said Sharpton.

“We do not want anybody high-fiving tonight,” said Sharpton. “There is no victory here. There are no winners here. They’ve lost their son.

This is not about gloating. This is about pursuing justice. We have not won anything. All we have done is established that we must have the right to redress and justice in this country…

“We will monitor the trial every step of the way,” he said.

“We will stand by and make sure the rights of all are not violated.”

Corey told reporters that she would not have filed the charge against Zimmerman had there not been “a reasonable certainty of conviction.”

Noting that she and her staff had met briefly with Martin’s parents when they picked up the investigation, Corey said, “The first thing we did was pray. We did not promise anything.”

Corey gave the first indication of Zimmerman’s arrest and that he had retained new council. On Tuesday, his previous attorneys used a bizarre press conference to note that they were stepping away from the case, citing an inability to get on the same page with their client about elements such as talking to the media and putting up a website.

As the news spread Wednesday of Zimmerman’s arrest and the second-degree murder charge, reactions came fast and in a hurry from several quarters.

“Your hard work, petitions, and prayers contributed to this moment,” NAACP president and CEO Benjamin L. Jealous said soon after in a written statement. “The arrest of George Zimmerman will not heal the hole that Trayvons murder left in our hearts. It will not bring him back to his family, nor will it bring back the countless other young, black victims of similar crimes.”

Still said Jealous, Zimmerman’s arrest could serve as a turning point. “As we have seen, the system does not always work perfectly. But we have shown that when we stand together as a nation we can compel it to work.”

For the NAACP, the case has always been about justice, fairness, and the rule of law, said Jealous. “We anticipate and expect a thorough federal investigation of the Sanford Police Department and its role in exacerbating this tragedy.”

Martin was killed on the night of Feb. 26 while walking home from a convenience in Sanford, Fla., a suburb of Orlando, where he had been visiting his father. After calling 911 to report a suspicious black male walking in the gated community, Zimmerman, a neighborhood watch captain, was told not to follow him.

Zimmerman ignored that instruction, continued to follow Trayvon, and ended up in a fight with him.

A single bullet to the chest fired from Zimmerman’s 9 millimeter automatic handgun killed Martin. Citing the state’s

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NEWS

Page 3

April 12 - 18, 2012

controversial Stand Your Ground law, Zimmerman claimed to be acting in self-defense. He was questioned by Sanford police and released without being charged.

“Elected officials, law enforcement officers, and our nation as a whole must understand that racial profiling and the official neglect of the murders of young men of color will not be tolerated,” said Jealous. “Together we can make sure the world we leave to all of the Trayvons in our lives is a better and safer place.”

Meanwhile, Dennis Parker, director of the ACLU Racial Justice Program, urged that Zimmerman not be the victim of a rush. The arrest is but one step in addressing issues of racial discrimination that Martin’s killing raised, he said in a written statement.

“We are hopeful that the prosecution of George Zimmerman will proceed in a fashion that assures that everyone involved in the incident is given the full due process and equal protection of the laws to which they are entitled,” Parker said.

“Regardless of the outcome of this prosecution, we would be doing a disservice to Trayvon Martin, to communities of color throughout the United States and to the nation as a whole if we failed to address the major issues of discrimination and fairness which this incident and many others have brought to light.”

On Monday, Special Prosecutor Corey had let it be known that she would not use a grand jury to determine if criminal charges should be brought against Zimmerman, sparking speculation of whether such a

move might signal a quicker arrest of Zimmerman than having regular citizens decide his fate as grand jurors.

Prosecutors in many highprofile cases often convene grand juries to determine whether criminal indictments are issued against a suspect, thus sparing themselves from any public fallout from unpopular decisions.

In deciding to scrap the planned grand jury, Corey made it clear that she and she alone would decide if Zimmerman was culpable in Martin’s death. Under Florida law, only

first-degree murder cases require the use of grand juries to determine if there is probably cause to charge a defendant.

In a statement issued after Corey made it known she would not be using the grand jury route, Benjamin Crump, an attorney for Martin’s parents, said, “The family has been patient throughout this process and asks that those who support them do the same during this very important investigation.”

(This story includes a NNPA report by George Curry)

Page 4

OPINION

Tri-State Defender

April 12 - 18, 2012

John H. Sengstacke Publisher (1951 - 1997)

The Mid-Southʼs Best Alternative Newspaper

A Real Times Newspaper

• Bernal E. Smith II President / Publisher • Dr. Karanja A. Ajanaku Executive Editor

I opened my big mouth!

Memphis & Shelby County show signs of getting healthier

GUEST EDITORIAL

Dr. King deserves more than a sliver of a desolate street

April 4, 2012 – a date that will live in infamy. I borrow this quote from Franklin Delano Roosevelt because it is so fitting to mark this occasion.

Today, in Memphis, TN, a sliver of a desolate city street was renamed in recognition of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. While I’m sure some people find this tribute fitting, it sickens my stomach. Besides the fact that this is 2012, and it has taken 44 years to bestow this “honor,” I am disgusted by the portion of street that was chosen to commemorate the fallen civil rights leader.

Forty-four years after the brutal killing of one of greatest human rights leaders this world has ever known – and how do we choose to honor the world’s drum major for social change? Seven hundred (700) yards of a desolate street and one street sign – hardly befitting of a man whose life was taken in our fair city.

If you are going to wait over 40 years to honor the man, this is the statement that you choose to make?

Dr. King came to this city to assist the sanitation workers when no one else would take on the controversial issue. His blood was shed and his life was lost in this city. And the thanks he receives for his ultimate sacrifice?

A street sign on a tiny stretch of road rarely traveled – and four decades later.

Did our city officials not know that most metropolitan areas in this country acknowledge Dr. King’s contributions by way of schools, libraries and monuments coined after him?

Did it slip their minds that Dr. King’s name is represented on major thoroughfares stretching throughout cities in over 60 countries? Did our elected officials fail to realize that Dr. King was just recently memorialized with a national monument in our country’s capitol?

I am a native Memphian and I love my city, but enough is enough! I can no longer passively watch the shortsightedness of our elected officials prevail on matters of this magnitude.

As a Morehouse College alum (Class of ’86), I am well versed on Dr. King’s philosophies and teachings.

One thing I learned from my matriculation through Dr. King’s alma mater is that one man can make a difference. There’s an old saying that a closed mouth won’t get fed. So, I’m opening my mouth to speak in opposition of an issue that many others apparently find distasteful – the slighting of a great American hero.

One of our local radio hosts said that this city already does too much for this “one person.” Well, I vehemently disagree. This “one person” is symbolic of all that we supposedly hold dear in this country – our rights and our freedoms. More than the man, it is what he represents to this nation.

I’m calling on everyone around this city, state, and country to join with me to insist that Dr. King’s name and image take a more prominent place in the Memphis landscape – the very land wherein he was slain.

Why? In Dr. King’s words, “Injustice anywhere is an injustice everywhere.”

When we still contend with the racial and economic inequalities as those outstanding in our news headlines, it is clear that the message that Dr. King heralded has not been internalized in our society. Until that time, we need to be vigilant, and proclaim “Let Freedom Ring!” Just as there are physical monuments to memorialize those who contributed to the history of Memphis, such as Nathan Bedford, so too, should this national leader be venerated in this fine city.

The last speech rendered on the last night of Dr. King’s life was a damning indictment on this country for its racial, economic and warmongering practices – the same issues that consume our local and national news today. Clearly, the dream has not been fulfilled. Our derelict and deficient act to posthumously celebrate him is an indictment on us. We need a permanent and prominent reminder of not only the man, but also, the dream and the legacy.

It’s high time for our elected officials to do what we pay them to do: speak out on behalf of the people. I find it hard to believe that the citizens of Memphis only wish to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with 700 yards of a desolate street and one street sign. The world is watching, and once again, Memphis has positioned itself to be the target of ridicule. Why would we add the insult of this unfitting token tribute to follow the injury of 44 years of overt nothingness? Let’s rethink this, officials. What say you?

How can we justly and suitably amend this half century oversight?

Perhaps we can take a clue from another infamous example. In 1997, 50 years after Jackie Robinson’s groundbreaking debut into major league baseball, the league retired not only his jersey, but the number 42. Their actions placed his number and his legacy in perpetuity. Said the MLB commissioner of Robinson, his contributions were significant “not only for baseball, but for our country in general.” Likewise, Dr. King’s contributions to creating a more just and equitable community, were not only momentous for blacks in Memphis, but for the city, nation and our world, and for that reason, a dedication in this town, should reflect the totality of his work.

James T. (Jai) Boyd Memphis

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Tri-State Defender Platform

1. Racial prejudice worldwide must be destroyed.

2. Racially unrestricted membership in all jobs, public and private.

3. Equal employment opportunities on all jobs, public and private.

4. True representation in all U.S. police forces.

5. Complete cessation of all school segregation.

6. Federal intervention to protect civil rights in all instances where civil rights compliance at the state level breaks down

DISTRIBUTION: Tri-State Defender is available at newsstands, street sales, store vendors, mail subscription and honor boxes throughout the Greater Memphis area. No person may, without prior written permission of the Tri-State Defender, reprint any part of or duplicate by electronic device any portion without written permission. Copyright 2012 by Tri-State Defender Publishing, Inc. Permission to Publisher, Tri-State Defender, 203 Beale Street, Suite 200, Memphis, TN. 38103. Back copies can be obtained by calling the Tri-State Defender at (901) 523-1818, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays.

Race relations get more thumbs up from young African Americans

Over the past 11 years, I have had the opportunity to work closely with the Godfather of Hip-Hop, Russell Simmons. We co-founded the HipHop Summit Action Network (HSAN) in 2001. We have convened more than 75 Hip-Hop Summits across the United States, Canada, and in South Africa, all dealing with such empowerment issues as education, financial literacy, civic engagement, housing and cultural transformation.

One of the essential findings that we experienced in those youth summits was that young African Americans today who consider themselves to be in the hip-hop generation see the question of race from a more transcendent and optimistic perspective than from the views of their parents or from generations the past.

Consequently, it was not surprising that a recent study by CNN found that African-American children were more optimistic on the issue of race than white children of the same age categories. Although the study that was commissioned by CNN’s “Anderson Cooper 360” was widely distributed through the news media, it was strange to hear that somehow the “groundbreaking” results provided some new revelations about racial progress in America. The timing of the release of this study was ironic given the latest national divide on the issue of race in the wake of the killing of Trayvon Martin in Sanford, Fla. How a 6-year-old child feels about race or how a teenager or a young adult understands the significance of race in society is often determined at a very early age by what the child experiences or observes from parents and others who interact with them.

According to the study, “A white child and a black child look at the exact same picture of two students on the playground but what they see is often very different and what they say speaks volumes about the racial divide in America. The pictures, designed to be ambiguous, are at the heart of a groundbreaking new study on children and race commissioned

by CNN. White and black kids were asked: ‘What’s happening in this picture?’ ‘Are these two children friends?’ and ‘Would their parents like it if they were friends?’”

The study concluded that there was a significant “chasm” and difference between the racial perspectives of the youth involved in the study who were as young as age 6.

CNN reported, “Overall, black first-graders had far more positive interpretations of the images than white first-graders. In fact, only 38 percent of black children had a negative interpretation of the pictures, whereas almost double – a full 70 percent of white kids – felt something negative was happening.”

The study also revealed that by the time AfricanAmerican children reach the age of 13, their views about race become much more pessimistic, similar to the views of white children Benjamin F. their age. An explanation was ofChavis Jr. fered by the study’s author, Melanie Killen of the University of Maryland: “Experiences of rejection and the harsh realities of race relations most likely explain the trend.”

The burden of eliminating racism and the ideology of white supremacy from the institutions of this society and from the mindset of people is not consigned to one racial group. In a multiracial society, there has to be a full commitment and serious responsibility for all people to work together to bridge the nation’s complex racial divide.

There is no question that we have made racial progress during the past 100 years in the United States. There is also no question that we have not overcome yet. Our youth are intelligent and conscious of the ways that race still is a discriminating factor that can determine ones quality of life. All youth, not African American youth alone, have to rise to the historical and contemporary challenges that must be faced and transformed. That is why, from my vantage point, it is healthy for so many young people to become energized in response to the tragedy of Trayvon Martin. We all must remain vigilant and active. There is much more progress to be accomplished.

The 2012 national elections, the reform of the educational system, the upcoming Supreme Court rulings on health care, the attempts in 30 or more states to suppress the Black vote, and other issues that will impact how our young people and others can have a better life are all matters of urgent concern. Let’s avoid cynicism and fear of change. Let’s make social change occur as the result of our collective determination and struggle for freedom, justice, equality and empowerment. Our race and our blackness are not a curse. We are a blessed people with a great future ahead, but we must not relent or retreat in the face of the resurgence of racial discrimination.

Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. is president of the Hip-Hop Summit Action Network and Education Online Services Corporation and serves as the national director for Occupy the Dream. He can be reached at drbenjamin.chavis@gmail.com

FACEBOOK FAN OF THE WEEK Wyvonia Woods Harris

Wyvonia Woods Harris is a native of Memphis, where she worked for 43 years at Baptist Clinical Research Center. After retiring in 2011, she launched her own business, Wysjoyful & Company, where she writes books of inspiration and motivation.

She has a bachelor of science in nursing, a masterʼs in community health and a master of divinity degree.

She is also an associate minister at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church – Westwood, where she serves with grace and compassion.

She states, “My focus starting July 2011 comes from Galatians 5:22 – ʻBut the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness.ʼ I pray to be somewhere picking fruit forever.”

Thanks Minister Harris for being a part of The New Tri State Defenderʼs Facebook family.”

I must tell you that I was a little nervous while waiting for the 2012 County Health Rankings for counties across the U.S. to come out last week. During a speaking engagement, I told a Reneé S. crowd of 200 Frazier people I was confident our community was getting healthier and that the County Health Rankings would prove me right.

I opened my big mouth and told them all, “I am not worried; I know we have done better. We are going to move up for sure!” I’m proud to say I was not completely wrong.

The good news is we moved up in some areas, and stayed pretty much the same in others. Our overall ranking did drop one spot from 58 to 59 for all of Tennessee’s 95 counties, but I am excited we moved up from being number 77 in health behaviors in 2011 to 66 this year.

The County Health Rankings is a comprehensive report on the health of almost every county in the United States compiled by the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. It tells us how we are doing in improving our health and our quality of health care compared to other communities.

In the past, our region has always been at the bottom of lists that show poor health. We continue to be seen as one of the fattest cities, with a history of high infant deaths and poor access to healthy foods in low-income communities. Community organizations and our government have put programs in place to address these negative trends, and this new data provides evidence we are moving in the right direction in various categories.

In Shelby County, adult smoking is 19 percent compared to 24 percent in Tennessee, physical activity is at 29 percent compared to 30 percent in Tennessee. Diabetic screening is now done 83 percent of the time when you visit your doctor compared to only 80 percent of the time in 2011. Mammogram screening has increased by 5 percent (53 percent) over last year, which showed only 58 percent of the women who should have gotten a mammogram received one. The health rankings this year also showed a slight increase in years of life for adults.

Now, we do have areas we need to work on. Obesity rates are still high at 34 percent, excessive drinking creates issues, and our overall social and economic factors such as high school graduation rates, unemployment, children in poverty, teen birth rates and sexually transmitted diseases are still in the bottom third in the state. We have to stay focused on efforts to move Shelby County into the top 50 percent of the 95 Tennessee counties, and I am convinced we can and will do so!

I believe we will do better because we are doing more to set a proactive and deliberate City and County healthy eating and active living agenda. The Healthy Memphis Common Table, the Shelby County Health Department, the YMCA, Healthy Kids and Teens, Game Day Baseball, employers, faith-based and community organizations, hospitals, and others continue to work together to promote healthier eating habits and more exercise. For example, farmers markets and community gardens can be found throughout our area supplying neighborhoods without grocery stores with fresh produce. The bike lanes commitment by Mayor A C Wharton has come to life, and he has declared Memphis a Let’s Move city!

In the coming months, Healthy Memphis Common Table will place on our web site a dashboard that tracks the work being done to create a healthier community and improve our County Health Rankings. It will provide a clearer understanding of where we are doing better and how what we are doing will help improve our health and health care.

Building a new road to better health and health care is something Healthy Memphis Common Table is committed to promote, motivate, and drive!

Healthy Memphis Common Table celebrates what we have done in our community, and we are committed to doing more each and every day!!

(Reneé S. Frazier, MHSA, FACHE, is CEO of Healthy Memphis Common Table.)

NATION

Tri-State Defender

Page 5

April 12 - 18, 2012

Burger King pulls Mary J. Blige chicken wrap commercial NNPA News Service

Burger King pulled a commercial starring R&B singer Mary J. Blige following controversy over her appearance and the context of the food advertised.

The fast-food chain said it discontinued the commercial April 3 due to music licensing concerns, not because of the widespread criticism it received from African-Americans, according to the Associat-

ed Press.

The ad was released the week of April 2 and features Blige singing the ingredients of the restaurant’s new chicken wrap sandwich. The video quickly went viral upon its release and raised a few eyebrows in the African-American community.

Janell Hazelwood, a columnist for business publication Black Enterprise, wrote that the commercial did “damage” to Blige’s brand and “reminded many of us that stereotypes

of dancing, singing, and chicken-loving black people still remain prevalent in the hearts and minds of advertisers.”

Renay Alize of Madam Noire, a website focused on African-American women, wrote to Blige directly.

“You still have so much more to contribute to the arts and entertainment game that there was no reason for you to stoop to stereotypes,” she wrote. “And I know what you’re thinking, everybody

across the world loves chicken. It’s true, most people get down with the poultry; but as a black woman, singing passionately about chicken is not the move!”

The commercial was pulled off the air and was removed from Burger King’s YouTube channel. A spokeswoman for the company told the AP that the ad was removed because of a licensing concern and would return to the air soon. The rep would not say whether the

commercial would remain in its original form when re-released.

The Burger King spokeswoman said other celebrities such as Jay Leno and Salma Hayak are also advertising the chicken wraps.

The new ads are part of the restaurant’s comprehensive media push to advertise its new menu items, according to Adage.com. Burger King executives hope new food items including smoothies, wraps, frappes and salads will bring the

company out of a lengthy slump.

“The big challenge is how do you really grab people’s attention? And most of all, how do you get them to taste the product,” Alex Macedo, Burger King senior VP of North America Marketing, told Adage. “We chose celebrities to get people’s attention faster and to show the diversity that we have with our brand.”

(Special to the NNPA from the Afro-American Newspaper)

‘We’ve go to do something about these Asians…’

D.C. Councilman Barry blasted for remarks on Asian-owned businesses Washington, D.C. Councilman Marion Barry has come under fire for comments he made about the Asian business community following his victory in a primary election.

According to The Washington Post, at an April 3 rally following his victory in the Ward 8 primary elections, TV cameras caught Barry speaking out against Asian-owned businesses in the District.

“We’ve got to do something about these Asians coming in, opening up businesses, those dirty shops,” Barry said, as filmed by NBC Washington affiliate WRC-TV. “They

ought to go, I’ll just say that right now, you know. But we need African-American businesspeople to be able to take their places, too.”

Outcry from the business community and Barry’s colleagues was swift, with Ward 6 Councilman Tommy Wells calling the remarks deplorable, and five Maryland lawmakers of Asian descent speaking out against Barry.

“At best, Mr. Barry’s attack on Asian Americans is deeply troubling, and at worst it is race baiting,” the lawmakers said in a statement.

A statement sponsored by

more than 30 local and national Asian groups also condemned Barry’s remarks.

“Councilmember Barry’s statement is of serious concern because it undermines the notion that developing the District of Columbia’s economy and neighborhoods is in the interest of all communities, regardless of national origin or ethnic background,” the groups said in the statement.

Barry took to Twitter April 5 to apologize for the phrasing of his comments, if not his concerns over the cleanliness of some Asian restaurants in Ward 8.

“I admit, I could and should have said it differently. But the facts are still very present in our daily lives here,” he

tweeted. “We are tired of substandard treatment, tired of being kept (at) arm’s length distance, tired of the lack of community engagement.”

The coalition of Asian groups called upon Barry to make a more sincere apology.

The councilman, however, said his statements were heartfelt.

“It (the apology) is as solid as Marion Barry can make it, and believe it, because I have a history of not doing anything to purposely disparage any group of people.”

Former mayor and current Washington D.C. Councilman Marion Barry (Photo by Graeme Jennings/The Examiner)

Barry, who was born in Leflore County, Miss., grew up Memphis and graduated from LeMoyne College (now The LeMoyne-Owen Col-

lege).

(Special to the NNPA from the Afro-American Newspaper)

BUSINESS

Page 6

Tri-State Defender

April 12 - 18, 2012

MONEY MATTERS

Rethinking the role of household debt

While GMʼs 2012 Corvette Sport Convertible has speed aplenty, TSD President / Publisher Bernal E. Smith II preferred to enjoy the elegance and grace versus the speed and power. (photos by Shirley Jackson)

What a Ride!!

GM extends ʻcourtesyʼ Car to TSD Publisher As part of its partnership with the National Newspaper Publishers Association, Real Times Media and The New Tri-State Defender, GM provided me an exclusive and extended test drive of any vehicle amongst its many stellar brands. As a matter of interest and opportunity, I choose the 2012 Corvette Sport Convertible.

Without question this was a fantastic choice! Sleek, silver, sexy and seductive are all choice words to describe her (the car). The black convertible top accentuated the silver color and made this a true head turner. Not to say that many saw the top up because once I got past the storms and rain of that first couple of days with her, it was drop top all day and all night!!!

Needless to say, I developed quite an affinity for her in the short seven days that she was with me!!

Having heard all the stories of the rough ride of low-to-the-ground sports cars, particularly Corvettes, she handled surprisingly well, and on the touring setting she was smooth and easy. With 200 on the dash, she is certainly capable of all the speed you need! I turned it up a time or two but preferred to enjoy

Sleek, silver, sexy and seductive are all choice words for the Corvette Sport Convertible, said TSD President/ Publisher Bernal E. Smith II, following an extended test drive.

the elegance and grace versus the speed and power.

All in all, this was an incredible car experience!

After learning how to maneuver the key gadgets – convertible top, CD player, DVD player, auxiliary outlets with USB for my iPad and projection speedometer to make it easy to stay within all legally-posted speed limits – there was nothing to

complain about with this bad baby.

To my friends at GM and their local dealers, let me say this: Although I am not in the market to buy one just yet (transporting two sons and a daughter on her way to college doesn’t make the convertible two-seater Corvette the most practical for a brother), I could be talked into a longer-term, extended test run!

ON OUR WAY TO WEALTHY

Focus: Sports related businesses

Off the field and out of the box

Reginald Jones is one of the few college athletes to make the leap into the pros, landing in the National Football League and playing with the New Orleans Saints and the Cleveland Browns. Later, he successfully transitioned from the gridiron, becoming the founder and president of Fit 2 Win, a corporate fitness consulting firm headquartered in Chicago.

Rapidly becoming one of the elite fitness experts, his consulting firm proposes that organizations employ fitness as a means of reducing healthcare expenditures, and lowering absenteeism. Fit 2 Win consulting offers educational seminars and workshops, as well as wellness coaching and the ‘K.E.E.P™.’ program for executives.

Now working on his first publication, a fitness and wellness book, Jones has been speaking and consulting for more than 10 years, nationally as well as internationally. He holds a bachelor of arts from the University of Memphis.

Carlee McCullough, Esq.: Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Reginald Jones: I am a national keynote and motivational speaker. My passion is motivational speaking. I will speak for any group or organization that has the budget.

C.M.: What is the most rewarding part of being at the helm of your own business?

R.J.: You are executing your own dreams and visions, and not someone else’s.

C.M.: What is the most challenging part of being at the helm of your own business?

R.J.: Most often, it is the

Carlee McCullough

challenge of resources for a small firm.

It may be human resources or financial resources.

In some instances it can be both human and financial resources.

C.M.: W h a t would you say are two personal qualities that are most reReginald sponsible Jones for your success?

R.J.: Discipline and determination. You have to be disciplined to learn and master your craft; as well, you have to be disciplined to operate in excellence. Determination is vital, because everyone and every business will face challenges, and you must be determined to overcome obstacles in business and life. I believe failure is not an option.

C.M.: Who were your biggest inspirations?

R.J.: John Johnson, founder of Johnson Publishing Company-Ebony & Jet magazines. I remember reading about John Johnson when I was in the sixth grade. I read about how Johnson was a successful businessman and publisher. I knew then I wanted to be an entrepreneur when I was older.

Also, the late Sam Mills,

former All-Pro linebacker for the New Orleans Saints, served as my mentor. I asked Sam how to be better than an average player in the NFL. He taught me, unequivocally, not to rely on talent alone – but that the elite players in the NFL not only, knew their playbook inside-out, but also, studied their opponents and knew the opposition inside-out.

C.M.: How does your firm compete against other consulting firms?

R.J.: I pride myself on being creative and innovative.

When I started Fit 2 Win in Chicago, I competed with other firms by promoting my K.E.E.P. program (Key Executive Exercise Protocol). Essentially I did private fitness coaching for executives in their homes or offices in downtown Chicago. As a result, this allowed Fit 2 Win to get in the door of their companies, to do Corporate Fitness & Wellness, in the form of seminars and workshops.

In a similar approach, I promote my motivational speaking by eliminating the middleman in the form of speaker bureaus. I establish relationships directly with meeting planners, event planners, and entertainment management companies.

My latest out-of-the-box creation is a program that I plan to launch this fall. Living here in the Bible-belt, I’ve done some research and discovered that over 80 percent of clergy in the U.S. say they are stressed from the job, and over 75 percent of U.S. clergy are overweight. To provide a solution for this industry, I’ve designed a Clergy Fitness & Wellness Roundtable. This roundtable is designed for

clergy to have a small confidential forum with their peers, to address and find solutions to their fitness and wellness challenges.

C.M.: If you were speaking to the youth in your community about becoming an entrepreneur, what would you suggest they do to pursue that career?

R.J.: Pursue your passion.

Once you know what you are passionate about, read and study that industry. Read books about your industry routinely. Do an internship if you are not at the stage where you are able to start you own business, and work in the industry until you are able to go out on your own. Also, be sure to visit your local Small Business Development Center for free consultations and unlimited resources. In addition, use the resources at the Small Business Development Center to create a business plan, which is a road map and blue print for your business.

C.M.: Do you have any closing words that you would like to share with us?

R.J.: I would encourage all athletes and future entrepreneurs to become avid readers.

The average American reads one book a year. An inexpensive way to get an edge and become knowledgeable is to read regularly. Get a library card and frequent the library.

Remember: Dream. Reach.

Realize.

(For additional information about Fit-2-Win please visit www.fit-2-win.com.)

(Contact Carlee McCullough, Esq., at 5308 Cottonwood Road, Suite 1A, Memphis, Tenn. 38118, or email her at jstce4all@aol.com.)

Many people aspire to pay off t h e i r h o m e m o r t gages before entering retirement.

But shedCharles ding debt Sims Jr. has become more difficult in recent years, partly as a result of weak economic conditions and the housing crisis. In 2010, 39 percent of households headed by someone aged 60 to 64 had first mortgages, compared with just 22 percent in 1994.

After more than a decade of free spending and rapidly rising household debt, Americans began taking steps to reduce their debt burdens.

By the second quarter of 2011, consumer debt had fallen about 15 percent from the 2007 peak of $11.4 trillion, but was still close to double the amount owed in 1999 (when adjusted for inflation and population).

Of course, there are some compelling reasons why preretirees may want to avoid carrying large amounts of debt and become less dependent on home equity. As retirement looms and opportunities to reduce debt and increase savings become more limited, these issues may become much more critical.

Dealing with debt and dwindling equity

In the past when retirees owned their homes free and clear, they could often count on them to provide additional financial resources during retirement. For those who wished to stay in their homes during retirement, housing expenses could be significantly reduced once a mortgage was paid off.

Others might opt to downsize to a smaller home or move to a lower-cost area, using the extra money from a home sale to supplement their retirement incomes.

However, this might not be an option for those who are unable to sell during a weak housing market or are unwilling to sell for a low

price. Because of falling home values, some homeowners may have less equity and might even have to take a significant loss if they sell their homes.

This is not just a problem affecting middle-income homeowners.

Affluent homeowners have also been affected by rising debt levels and reduced home equity.

Nationwide, high-end homes lost 38 percent of their value after the marked peaked in 2006, and lower-end homes fell even more.

Refocusing on saving

When times are tough, it’s not uncommon for investors to reduce or discontinue making retirement plan contributions in order to meet their obligations. Pre-retirees who are able to reduce or eliminate debt can direct their efforts toward saving and investing more for the future.

In the years preceding retirement, many workers are in their peak earning years, which makes this a particularly critical time to save as much as possible for retirement. Workers aged 50 and older not only may be able to maximize their retirement plan contributions but also could take advantage of catch-up provisions that enable them to contribute even more.

The most recent housing downturn has drawn attention to the potential risks created by carrying too much debt into retirement. Money dedicated to service debt is no longer available to spend or save.

This simple fact could have larger implications not only for the economy as a whole but possibly for your own financial future.

(Charles Sims Jr., CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, is President/ CEO of The Sims Financial Group. Contact him at 901682-2410 or visit www.SimsFinancialGroup.c om. The information in this article is not intended to be tax or legal advice, and it may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. You are encouraged to seek tax or legal advice from an independent professional advisor.)

Tri-State Defender newspaper locations

COMMUNITY

Tri-State Defender

BRIEFS & THINGS Bowl-a-Thon to benefit homeless women, children

The board of directors of HER Faith Ministries, Inc., on Saturday (April 14) will host its first Bowl-a-Thon to benefit programs and services for homeless women and children in Memphis and Shelby County.

The inaugural event will be held at All Star Bowling Lanes at 1576 S. White Station Road in the Quince Station Shopping Center from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

“This ministry provides homes that are safe and clean places for women and children to live,” said Otis Sanford, honorary chairman of the Bowl-a-Thon. “This event is being held as a fundraiser to help offset the cost of operating these homes and to help to provide other muchneeded assistance for women and children.”

HER Faith Ministries, Inc., is a public charity founded in 2008 in response to the growing needs of the homeless population in Memphis.

The ministry provides housing, emergency food, clothing and assistance with public transportation. It receives no government funding and is strictly supported by gifts from individuals, community organizations, and area churches including Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church, Greater Middle Baptist Church, Castalia Baptist Church, Temple of the Saints of God in Christ Outreach Ministries, and the consortium of churches under the Tennessee Christian Churches (Disciples of Christ) Women’s Ministry – Western District.

Bowlers are asked to form a team of four or to bowl individually at a cost of $50 per person.

All proceeds will directly benefit women and children.

Sisters-In-Motion sets Annual 5K Run/Walk

Sisters-In-Motion – a fitness group that began when a small group of concerned AfricanAmerican women decided to take charge of their lifestyles by promoting wellness – will hold its Third Annual 5K Run/Walk at 9 a.m. on Sept. 29 at Overton Park.

The event will benefit the Christ Community Health Services (CCHS) Centering Pregnancy Program. Proceeds will help purchase educational supplies and underwrite group-mentoring programs for expectant mothers. All donations are tax-deductible.

The need is great. According to statistics, every 43 hours a baby dies in Memphis, a rate higher than any major city in the United States, and higher than some developing countries.

Two zip codes top them all: 38108, where 31 out of every 1,000 babies do not survive to age one, and 38127,where 50 out of every 1,000 babies do not make it to birthday number one.

Sisters-In-Motion has partnered with CCHS to raise money and bring awareness to the infant mortality crisis in Memphis. Since its inception in 2008, the CCHS Centering Pregnancy Program has provided peer mentoring, health education, and medical support to help participants realize the goal of a healthy, fullterm pregnancy.

For more information: visit, www.sistersinmotionmemphis.org; contact Linda Sessoms, president, simmemphis @yahoo.com, 901-488-1181; LaVerne Bobo, race director, laverne237@aol.com, 901-5691198; or go to www.christchs.org.

BRIEFLY: On April 14, Cohen will host a “Forum on Infant Mortality” from 10 a.m. to noon at the Hollywood Community Center located at 1560 North Hollywood St., Memphis, TN. Participants include: Dr. J. Nadine Gracia, acting director of HHS Office of Minority Health; Tonya Lewis Lee, national best-selling author, award-winning TV producer and the face of a national infant mortality campaign; Dr. Ramasubbareddy Dhanireddy, UTHSC, Leader of The MED’s Newborn Center; A local peer educator from the “Health Baby Begins With You” Campaign; and Keisha M. Walker, administrator, Office of Early Childhood and Youth.

BRIEFLY: Early Registration for City of Memphis Summer Camp 2012 is April 14 from 9 a.m. until noon at all Memphis Community Centers. Over 2,100 campers are expected to attend 25 camps throughout the city this year, including one camp for special needs. For more information, call 901-576-4203, your local community center, or visit www.memphistn.gov and follow the link to Summer Camp 2012.

BRIEFLY: In an effort to promote health and wellness to the local community, Methodist South Hospital will host its fourth annual Whitehaven Healthy Community Day on Saturday, April 14 at 1300 Wesley Drive. For more information, visit www.methodisthealth .org/healthwalk or call 901-516-3580.

BRIEFLY: The LeMoyne-Owen College Concert Choir’s annual spring concert is set for April 18, beginning at 7 p.m. at First Congregational United Church of Christ, 1000 South Cooper. For more information, contact Dr. Allen at 901-435-1310.

BRIEFLY: The John Wood Community College (JWCC) Concert Choir Vocal Show Ensemble and Jazz Band from Quincy, Ill., will present a free concert at Southwest Tennessee Community College on April 19 at 1 p.m. in the Farris Auditorium on the Macon Cove Campus.

The concert is scheduled in conjunction with JWCC’s spring tour to Memphis, which also includes performances at the Redbirds’AutoZone Park and the Center for Southern Folklore.

BRIEFLY: Congressman Steve Cohen will host a Federal Procurement Fair from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on April 23 at the FedEx Institute of Technology at The University of Memphis at 365 Innovation Drive. Vendors ready to apply for government contracts will be given the opportunity to meet one-on-one with procurement officials who will share specific information about their procurement needs.

BRIEFLY: Executive Director Michelle Fowlkes of the Memphis and Shelby County Crime Commission will be the guest speaker for the 5th Annual Mother’s Day Dinner sponsored by the Mothers of the Nile. The event is set for May 3 at First Baptist Church-Broad at 2835 Broad Ave., with dinner at 5:30 p.m. and the program from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $30. For more information, call Myra Stiles 272-3819 or email mothersofthenile@aol.coma

Page 7

April 12 - 18, 2012

Minister Farrakhan to keynote LOC Diversity Leadership Conference kajanaku@tri-statedefender.com

by Karanja A. Ajanaku Minister Louis Farrakhan of the Nation of Islam will deliver the keynote address during the Diversity Leadership Conference that will unfold on the campus of The LeMoyne-Owen College on April 14.

Farrakhan is among a diverse group of community leaders who will lecture on such topics as cultural acceptance, social stigmas, race and religion. Workshops will take place in the Student Center at 807 Walker Avenue, beginning at 12:30 p.m. Farrakhan is on the 6:30 p.m. program at Brownlee Hall/Johnson Gymnasium.

“The goal that the student government had was to actually be able to expose college-age students to diversity, whether it’s religion, race, regardless. Our goal was to expose them to it so that they would realize that there is real true beauty in diversity,” said SGA President SimmieRay Dinkins.

“In order for us to be truly successful and able to lead without bias and without prejudice and all these things, we have to learn and understand and appreciate different faiths, different religions, different ethnic origins.”

A junior born in Chicago, Dinkins graduated high school in Ripley, Tenn. He noted that LOC is a private institution, where the bulk funding comes from a faith-based community, “that faith being the Christian faith and a lot of Jewish faith as well.”

“I am sure you are not oblivious to the relationship or the views of the Muslim and Jewish communities,” he said. “Although there may have been some caution, there was of course caution, I still had the support of the school. When I say I had their support, I mean that I am saying that they guided me to be able to reach out to individuals to make happen what I needed to make happen.”

Minister Louis Farrakhan, who will speak at The LeMoyne-Owen College on Saturday (April 14) evening, is touring colleges, such as this recent stop at Howard University in Washington, D.C. (Photo courtesy of The Final Call.)

LOC is “our campus and we are entitled to the experience we want to have,” said Dinkins. “And that experience involves us being exposed to different things contrary to what the typical belief is on our campus.”

True educational liberation has no bias, said Dinkins.

“When you try to educate a body of people to be able to compete on a global scale and in a global community, you have to expose them to the global community,” said Dinkins. “Farrakhan and the Nation of Islam are point of that global community. There is no way we could deny that.”

Naa’irah Muhammad, a Nation of Islam student liaison at LOC, where she is junior,

said the Diversity Leadership Conference is about uplifting the students, bringing knowledge and truth, and getting students to get more involved.

Muhammad Farrakhan, she noted, is on a college tour, visiting various campuses.

“I just want it to be an awakening to the students,” said Muhammad of Farrakhan’s visit and the conference. “Not just at the LeMoyne campus, but at other campuses as well to start making a change, and to step up and start being leaders as far as our campuses and in our communities.”

(For more information call 901-435-1740 or visit www.loc.edu.)

Robotics students ‘Rumble’ Special to the Tri-State Defender

by Dena L. Owens

ʻImproving effective teaching should be our cityʼs No. 1 priority,ʼ said the Rev. Brandon Walker, director of Clergy United for the Memphis Schools. (Courtesy photo)

New clergy group eyes more than lip service in support of teachers Special to the Tri-State Defender

A new coalition of Memphis religious leaders on Tuesday (April 10) released a report showing that highly effective teachers have a greater impact on student performance than any other resource in the school system and are the key to improving student outcomes in Memphis.

Released by Clergy United for the Memphis Schools, the report draws upon multiple education studies. One long-term study cited found that average students exposed to three years of effective teachers scored in the top 10 percent of their classes, as opposed to similar students with ineffective teachers who fell to the bottom 40 percent.

The report also cited data from a separate study that found students assigned to an excellent teacher stood to gain as much as a full year’s worth of academic growth, as compared to students assigned to a weak instructor who more likely fell behind in their work.

“Improving effective teaching should be our city’s No. 1 priority,” said the Rev. Brandon Walker, pastor of the New Shelby Missionary Baptist Church and director of Clergy United for the Memphis Schools, composed of nearly 50 pastors and ministry leaders.

“Teachers are second only to parents in influencing the lives of our young people.”

Clergy United for the Memphis Schools receives funding from a national consortium of clergy called Shepherding The Next Generation (SNG), which funneled funds to the Memphis group from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. SNG was founded in Tennessee four years ago.

“We need to recognize the importance of our teachers – that they are the key to improving student outcomes,” said Rabbi Micah Greenstein, of Temple Israel. “I strongly believe we need to give our teachers as much support as possible so they can work to continue to improve the academic performance of our children.”

The press conference to release the report is the first of several events that religious leaders are planning this month in support of the Memphis City Schools’ effective teaching work.

Walker noted that a number of local churches are setting aside April 29 as a “Sunday Celebration of Teachers” to honor teachers in their local congregations.

“It’s part of our effort to celebrate teachers in their own communities,” he said.

“We believe that most of our teachers are good to excellent, but until now there has been no way to evaluate them fairly,” said Greenstein, who added that the city’s effective teaching work seeks to establish a more consistent method of evaluating teachers and to support their growth.

The religious leaders noted that many school districts nationwide depend on professional certification, advanced degrees and years of service to determine teacher effectiveness, though these have not proved to be reliable measurements. The group made the point that the Memphis Teacher Effectiveness Initiative, developed with input from city teachers and other community leaders, includes parental feedback and administrator evaluation; measures of teacher content knowledge; and “value-added data,” which measures students’ year-long academic growth.

“Effective teaching takes intellect, considerable skill and extensive training,” said Bartholomew Orr, pastor of Brown Missionary Baptist Church. “Just as we need to recognize our exceptional teachers, we also need to provide professional development and personal support to teachers who are struggling.”

The religious leaders also stressed that good teachers alone cannot improve schools.

The Clergy United for the Memphis Schools report shows that a third of all teachers leave the profession within five years, and that the rate of attrition is even higher in schools serving more at-risk children. The report suggests improving compensation for high-performing instructors could be an effective way to counter high attrition rates.

“For achievement to continue to improve in Memphis, teachers will need community support,” said pastor Orr. “Teaching our children is a calling, and educators play an enormous role in shaping the youngest of our flocks, and it is a reality that teachers complement parents in preparing their children for adulthood,” said Dr. Christopher Davis of the St. Paul Baptist Church and the Memphis Theological Seminary.

“As John said in 3:18, ‘Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth,’ And the truth is: We must give this effort more than lip service. We need to take action to support these efforts and to support our teachers,” said Davis.

Exposure to robot building has fascinated youth in the Memphis City Schools – so much so that two high school teams, once “rookie” robot builders, now compete nationwide and advise new teams.

Robotics teams at Craigmont and Hamilton high schools participated in two major contests this year. In March, both teams competed in a two-day regional tournament in Knoxville. In April, both competed again in out-of-state regional contests thanks to a $12,000 grant from corporate sponsor Medtronic, Inc., a global force in medical technology.

Craigmont competed in Dallas and Hamilton in Minneapolis, Minn., among high school teams from across the country.

Craigmont finished 11th out of 51 teams and Hamilton finished 15th among 65.

Medtronic Inc. will recognize both teams during a special event at its Memphis office on Friday, April 13.

Since 2009, the MCS Robotics Initiative has grown from three to nine high schools consisting of eight teams: Booker T. Washington and Carver (teamed together), Cordova, Craigmont, Hamilton, Kingsbury, Manassas, Memphis Academy of Science and Education, and Memphis Business Academy.

MCS robotics teams fall under the advisement of a national non-profit organization called FIRST, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, which selected Craigmont and Hamilton to compete in additional regional contests this year.

FIRST builds youth interest in science and technology by helping students build computerized robots from the ground up. A robotics kit provided by FIRST helps students learn how robots are used in fields such as biotechnology, engineering and medicine.

FIRST hosts regional and national tournaments, and promotes “gracious professionalism” whereby experienced teams give advice to “rookie” groups.

Craigmont’s first try at regional competition occurred in Knoxville in 2011.

“Last year’s contest changed my attitude about robotics,” said Craigmont senior Keunna Arnold. “We learned more and were excited about competing again this year!”

For 2012, FIRST required teams to build a robot to successfully play Rebound Rumble, a game where the machine throws an 8-inch basketball into a goal to score. Teams are given six weeks building time and access to robotics mentors. Finished robots, with their many wires, lights, steel arms and rolling bases, are then tested for accuracy.

Craigmont’s team, the Robo Chiefs, built their 2012 robot “Geronibot” as an improved model over last year’s machine. After undertaking two robotics camps and advisement by five U.S. Navy experts in logistics, technology and explosives, the Robo Chiefs were “ready to rumble.”

“We wanted to up the ante from last year,” said Robot Chiefs member Quinton Jones.

“We’re competitive, but we helped new teams this year, just like we were helped last year.”

Craigmont sophomore Rose Zeng said, “I enjoy the teamwork and programming the computer.”

Patricia Kilzer, a Craigmont chemistry teacher and Robo Chiefs advisor, said, “Our team’s dedication is contagious! Even my husband helped me to help them.”

Craigmont’s principal, Sherilyn Brown, tested “Geronibot” before it was shipped for competition.

“Our 2012 robot is better than last year’s,” said Brown. “Being selected for the additional tournament in Dallas truly inspired our students.”

RELIGION

Page 8

Tri-State Defender

April 12 - 18, 2012

LIVING THE LIFE I LOVE

Thinking with honesty is a form of self-respect

D e a r Lucy: My life has always been so hard.

Nobody ever gives me a break. I am sick and tired of it. My Lucy boyfriend Shaw and I just broke up and I do not have a lot of friends. He said he was tired of me whining and blaming other people all the time. I think that was very unfair of him. Am I wrong?

– AD

Dear AD: In the book, “Be Not Anxious,” I talk a lot about guilt and blame. These seem to me to be two of the emotions that trip us up the most in life. I have been recently teaching a class on some of the qualities that are essential to growing in grace and learning about ourselves and our own ability to be wonderful. One of the essential qualities for greatness is selfrespect.

Self-respect is the capacity to love learning and growing so very much that we are willing to take full responsibility for our thinking, doing and being. In the Bible, we are told that “as he thinketh, so is he.”

To create the life we want, it is important to think with honesty. And after we think with honesty we should be prepared to match that honesty in words and deeds. As you may have read in this column before, I believe fully that every person or event in our lives is a reflection of our thinking and our expectations. One of the best signs of maturity is the ability to own up to our own responsibility for what’s going on in our lives.

Here is a little piece called “Autobiography in Five Chapters” by Portia Nelson: I walk down the street.

There is a deep hole in the sidewalk. I fall in. I am lost...I

The Rapha Health Ministry at St. Andrew A. M. E. Church will host its fun-filled “Sweatsuit Sunday” on April 29th from noon until 3 p.m. at the church at 867 S. Parkway East.

Activities for this “Heal The Land” celebration include, age-appropriate exercise classes, line dancing, Zumba,

am hopeless. It isn’t my fault.

It takes forever to find my way out.

I walk down the street.

There is a deep hole in the sidewalk. I pretend I don’t see it. I can’t believe I am in the same place. But it isn’t my fault. It takes forever to find a way out.

I walk down the same street.

There is a deep hole in the sidewalk. I see it there. I still fall in...it’s a habit. It is my fault. I get out immediately.

I walk down the same street.

There is a deep hole in the sidewalk. I see it is there. I walk around it.

I walk down another street.

Blaming others for our own thoughts, actions and subsequent ways of being can become a nasty habit. In the poem, you can see that it can be hard to break. But you may find yourself in the same hole over and over until you choose to think differently and with honesty and responsibility. We are on this Earth to learn and to grow. Please don’t let blame, shame or guilt halt your progress. Sometimes looking at ourselves closely can be painful, uncomfortable or just plain hard to do. Yet, every time we do so, we are practicing honesty and self-respect that helps grow us into the wonderful person that we long to be.

Choose a new street to travel!

Hour of power…

The Rev. Stephen A. Saine Sr., pastor of Higher Heights Christian Church, left no stone unturned in preaching an Easter Sunday sermon that included the burial and resurrection of Jesus. The service was at the church at 1946 Whitney Ave. (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)

Lucy

(Check out Lucy Shaw’s website at http://www.heartworks4u.com. You may send your questions to her by U.S. mail to: Heartworks4U, LLC; 4646 Poplar Ave. Ste 201, Memphis, TN 38117 or by email to lucy@heartworks4u.com.)

(For help with the feelings that get in the way of prayer and peace of mind, get Lucy’s new book, “BE NOT ANXIOUS.” Order it directly from her at 901-907-0260 or go to her web site www. heartworks4u.com.)

healthy cooking and health education classes, a 3-on-3 basketball tournament and much more!

For more information, call 901-948-3441.

At St. Andrew, the Rev. Kenneth S. Robinson, M.D., is pastor, and the Rev. Marilynn S. Robinson, MPH, is co-pastor.

St. Andrew sets ‘Sweatsuit Sunday’

Room for revival…

The Rev. Tellis Chapman of Gallilee Baptist Church in Detroit was the evening session speaker on Sunday (April 8) during the Baptist Ministersʼ Association 2012 City-Wide Revival at New Salem Missionary Baptist Church, where the Rev. Dr. Frank Ray Sr. is the senior pastor. The revival continues through Friday (April 13). Dr. Roosevelt Joyner is the president of the Baptist Ministers Association. (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)

PRAISE CONNECT -A WEEKLY DIRECTORY OF MINISTERS & CHURCHES-

Greenwood Christian Methodist Episcopal Church 3311 Kimball Ave. Memphis, TN 38111 (901) 744-7531 (901) 744-7664

Clarence Kelby Heath Wednesday Pastor

Noon - 1 p.m.

6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

767 Walker Avenue Memphis, TN 38126

9 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

901-946-4095 fax 948-8311

(901) 948-3441

Early Morning..........7:45 AM Church School..........9:45 AM Morning Worship......11:00 AM

Rev. Davena Young Porter Rev. Linda A Paige Rev. Luecretia Matthews

Bible Study For Youth and Adults Tuesday - 7:00 PM “Spirit, Soul, and Body!”

AM 1070 WDIA Sundays, 10:00-10:30 AM

SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES

SUNDAY Sunday School .....................8:30 am Morning Worship Service ....10:00am WEDNESDAY Bible Study .........................10:30 am Mid-Day Prayer Meeting .....12 noon Evening Prayer Meeting........7:00pm

FRIDAY Cable Channel 17 ............... 8:00pm

TV Cable Access Broadcast Tuesdays, 7:30 PM, Channel 17 Website:www.saintandrewamec.org

Dr. & Rev. Mrs. Reginald Porter

TEMPLE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST

672 So. Lauderdale 38126 P.O. Box 314 Memphis, Tn 38101 Phone (General) 774-1572 Pastor: 775-0740 Secretary: 775-1909 WEEKLY SERVICES

Sunday Sunday School 9:00 a.m.

Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.

Night YPWW 5:00 p.m.

Night Service 6:00 p.m.

Tuesday Night Prayer 6:00 p.m.

Bible Study 7:15 p.m.

Wednesday Choir Rehearsal 7:00 p.m.

Friday Morning Prayer 9:00 a.m.

Night Service 7:30 p.m.

BROADCASTS 9:30 a.m. Sunday WDIA - 1070 AM

No Telecast Service

ST. ANDREW A.M.E. CHURCH 867 SOUTH PARKWAY EAST Memphis, TN 38106

Dr. Reginald L. Porter Sr., Pastor

ASSOCIATE MINISTERS

Worship Services

Sunday Sunday School Worship Service

METROPOLITAN BAPTIST CHURCH

Dr. David Allen Hall Pastor

“The Founder’s Church”

First Pastor: Senior Bishop C.H. Mason

THE BLVD Ea s t 6745 Wol f Ri v e r B oule v a r d @ Ki r by Pa r k wa y ( i n t he Cl a rk Ope r a Me mphi s Ce nte r ) Me mp h i s T N 3 8 1 2 0

Dr. Frank A. Thomas Senior Servant

Child Care Center (901) 948-6441 Monday-Friday 6 AM- 5:30 PM Emergency Food Pantry Rev. Kenneth S. Robinson, Pastor & Clothes Closet Rev. Marilynn S. Robinson, Co-Pastor Wednesday 6 PM-8 PM

“Ministering to Memphis-Spirit, Soul and Body”

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

— Proverbs 1:7

Tri-State Defender

Here these words…

RELIGION

April 12 - 18, 2012

Radio personality Stan A. Bell narrates “The Seven Last Words of Christ” by Theodore Dubois and performed by The Easter Chorale at St. John Baptist Church at 640 Vance Avenue. Rosetta H. Peterson was the director, David A. Caudill, organist, and Joy M. Plunkett was the pianist. The event was sponsored by the Music Committee, whose chairman is Alexus D. Lewis. (Photo

by Tyrone P. Easley)

Beatrice Netters, 79 – D.O.D. 4/5/12; Funeral services on Friday, April 13, 2012 at 11 a.m. at Mt. Vernon MBC at 620 Parkrose.

Pearlyn Sherherd, 88 – D.O.D. 4/3/12; Funeral services were Wednesday, April 11, 2012 at 11 a.m. at R. S. Lewis & Sons Chapel, 374 Vance Ave.

Madeline Wagner, 47 – D.O.D. 4/7/12; Funeral services on Saturday, April 14, 2012 at 10 a.m. at R. S. Lewis & Sons Chapel, 374 Vance Ave. Luther Owens, 87 – D.O.D. 4/6/12; Funeral services on Saturday, April 14, 2012 at 10 a.m. at St. Andrews AME Church at 867 S. Parkway.

James Allen Shaw, 65 – D.O.D. 4/10/12; Funeral services on Saturday, April 14, 2012 at 11 a.m. at Greater Open Door MBC at 1537 Florida.

Sammie Wilkins, 25 – D.O.D. 4/8/12; Funeral services on Saturday, April 14, 2012 at 2:30 p.m. at R. S. Lewis & Sons Chapel at 374 Vance Ave.

Ralph Cannon, 65 – D.O.D. 4/6/12; Funeral ser-

OBITUARIES

vices on Saturday, April 14, 2012 at 11 a.m. at Greater Mt. Zion MBC at 2070 Chelsea.

Information provided by

R. S. Lewis & Sons Funeral Home 374 Vance Avenue Memphis, TN 38126 901-526-3264

Page 9

ENTERTAINMENT Tri-State Defender, Thursday, April 12 - 18, 2012, Page 10

WHAT’S HAPPENING MYRON?

Get well Jeff Lee!

Radio personality Jeff Lee – and a special benefit planned for him – net top billing in this week’s column.

Jeff suffered a stroke several days ago and is currently hospitalized. A few of his friends have gotten toMyron gether and planned Mays a benefit event that will be held at the Whitehaven Celebration Complex located at 3270 Elvis Presley from 9 p.m. until this Saturday night (April 14).

Special guests and performers include Tonya Dyson, V Mack and more. Donations are $10. Reserved VIP tables are $50 and seat six people. For more information, call 901650-2986.

Get out and show your support…Memphis style!

Meanwhile, let’s keep Jeff and his family in our prayers for a full and speedy recovery.

Joe Clair at the Bartlett Comedy Spot

Here’s a guy who’s been around for a while. Remember Rap City on BET years ago? Of course you do and you remember the host, Joe Clair, too, right?

Well, Clair is also a comedian and he will be coming to town to perform for shows at the Bartlett Comedy Spot on Friday and Saturday (April 13-14). Show times are at 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. on both days. Admission is $10.

The Bartlett Comedy Spot is located at 5709 Raleigh-Lagrange. For more details call 901-590-3620.

Soul Talk

Another session of Soul Talk returns this Saturday. Soul Talk is an interactive lounge session that allows you to control the event by submitting some of your favorite songs that you’d like to hear, and the DJ will put into rotation for you. Also, enjoy great conversation with wine and h’ordeuvres and chat about topics that you have submitted to us.

Admission is $10. Doors open and wine served at 8 p.m. Soul Talk begins at 9 p.m. The venue will be the Marshall Arts Gallery located at 639 Marshall Avenue across from Hattiloo Theatre. For more information, email Corey@memphisrebirth.com.

The Comedy and Blues Tour

The Comedy Blues Tour returns this Saturday (April 14) to the Batesville Civic Center, with great music and non-stop laughter.

Join Toni Green, Theodis Ealey, Karen Wolfe and Carl Sims as they deliver the blues, along with comedians Sonya D and Bruh-Man from “Martin.” The show begins at 7 p.m.

Tickets: $25 to $125. For more information, call the DBS Agency at 662-855-1601 or visit www.comedyandbluestour.com.

Stax to the Max

Stax to the Max is Back! What’s that?

Stax to the Max is a Soulsville street festival to celebrate 11 years of the Stax Music Academy. It happens April 28 at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music from noon until 7 p.m. There will be live music, vendors and activities all day long.

Admission is free, plus there will be $1 admission to the museum from noon until 5 p.m. For more information and details on the musical line up, visit www.staxmuseum.com.

On another note

The What’s Happening Book Club kicked off last Saturday (April 7) at McAlisters at Poplar and Highland. If you didn’t make it out, don’t worry, you can still pick up the book and join us for next month’s discussion.

The name of the book is “Midnight and the Meaning of Love” by Sista Souljah. We will meet again on May 5 at the same place at 3 p.m. Email me for more information.

Parting shot

The NAACP presents the Memphis Gospel Fest at the University of Memphis on April 28. I’ll be sure to have all the details for you next week!

Until then, that’s what’s happening!

(Got an event you’d like for me to cover or attend? Email me at Myron@ whatshappeningmyron.com.)

Glenn Ligon b. 1960 CONDITION REPORT, 2000 Iris print and Iris print with serigraph, 8/20 Collection of the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art

William Edmondson 1874-1951 COURTING LADY, ca. 1940s Limestone Gift of AutoZone, Inc. 2001.15.13.

‘The Soul of a City: Memphis Collects African American Art’ Brooks exhibition debuts in June

For the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, this summer’s goals include showcasing the diversity, vitality, and creativity of African American art.

With that backdrop, museum visitors will be treated to “The Soul of a City: Memphis Collects African American Art,” which will begin June 9 and run through Sept. 2.

On display will be more than 100 important and thought-provoking paintings, photographs, drawings, sculptures and mixed media works selected from private and public collections in Memphis.

The exhibition surveys great themes in art history as expressed through sections devoted to landscape, genre, still life, portraiture, folk art, abstraction, religion, music, the Civil Rights movement, and contemporary art.

“Think of it as an introduction to art history and the traditions and genres that all American artists work in,” says exhibition curator Marina Pacini, who is Chief Curator and Curator of American, Modern, and Contemporary Art at the Brooks.

“The Soul of a City” will include marquee names in American art, including painters Norman Lewis, Kehinde Wiley, Jacob Lawrence, Sam Gilliam, Radcliffe Bailey, and Alma Thomas; folk artists Clementine Hunter, Purvis Young, and Elijah Pierce; sculptors Chakaia Booker and Elizabeth Catlett; collagists Romare Bearden and Wangechi Mutu; mixed media artists Glenn Ligon and Whitfield Lovell; and photographers James van der Zee, Lorna Simpson, and Carrie Mae Weems.

The exhibition will also feature work by many regional artists, including the late sculptor William Edmondson, the first African American artist to be given a one- Whitfield man show at the Muse- Lovell um of Modern Art; self- b. 1959 taught Alabama artist PSALM, 1999 Thornton Dial; and a Charcoal on wide range of work by wood, radio, established and emerg- audio cassette ing Memphians, includ- Collection of ing photographer Ernest Memphis Withers; painters George Brooks Hunt, Brenda Joysmith, Museum of Twin, Jared Small, Dan- Art ny Broadway, Anthony Lee, and Dewitt Jordan; mixed-media artist Kiersten Williams; quilter Hattie Childress; and sculptors Luther Hampton, Edwin Jeffrey, and Hawkins Bouldin.

An interactive space where museum visitors can explore the creative process will be included in the exhibition.

Lenders to “The Soul of a City” include Elliot and Kim Perry, Ron and Marianne

Chakaia Booker b. 1953 UNTITLED, 2002 Rubber tire and wood Collection of the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art

Walter, Judge and Mrs. D’Army Bailey, Drs. James and Rushton Patterson, John and Susan Jerit, Craig Wiener, Robert Bain, the University of Memphis, and The LeMoyne-

Owen College.

The Brooks will collaborate with various community groups, including Hattiloo Theatre and the Stax Music Academy, on various educational components, including an Art and Soul Family Day, sponsored by Macy’s, which is slated for Saturday, June 23.

A concurrent film series, entitled “Soul on Film,” will be held throughout the run of the exhibition. A collaboration between the Brooks and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, “Soul on Film” will kick off with a screening of the documentary “Wattstax” at 7 pm on Thursday, June 14.

Celebrating the 40th anniversary of the landmark 1972 soul music concert, and presented in conjunction with a Wattstax exhibition on view at the Stax Museum this summer, tickets for this special screening will be just $1 per person. The series will also feature the documentaries “Thunder Soul,” “Mr. Dial Has Something to Say,” and “Colored Frames,” as well as more films TBA. “The Soul of a City: Memphis Collects African American Art” is sponsored by SunTrust.

Community Partners: ArtsMemphis, Hyde Family Foundations, Tennessee Arts Commission, The Jeniam Foundation, and AutoZone.

(For more information, call 901-544-6200 or visit www.brooksmuseum.org.)

ENTERTAINMENT

Tri-State Defender

Page 11

April 12 - 18, 2012

OPENING THIS WEEK

Kam’s Kapsules:

Weekly Previews That Make Choosing a Film Fun

Special to the Tri-State Defender

by Kam Williams

For movies opening April 13, 2012

BIG BUDGET FILMS

“The Cabin in the Woods” (R for profanity, drug use, sexuality, nudity and graphic violence) Genre-bending horror flick about five friends (Kristen Connolly, Chris Hemsworth, Anna Hutchison, Fran Kranz and Jesse Williams) who find more than they bargained for during a gruesome getaway at a remote retreat so deep in the forest it’s off the grid. With Richard Jenkins, Amy Acker and Bradley Whitford.

“Lockout” (PG-13 for profanity, sexual references and intense violence) Futuristic, sci-fi thriller about a wrongly-convicted federal agent (Guy Pearce) who is offered a pardon in return for rescuing the President’s daughter (Maggie Grace) from an outer space prison where she’s been taken hostage by bloodthirsty inmates. Featuring Peter Stormare, Vincent Regan and Lennie James.

“The Three Stooges” (PG for slapstick violence, crude humor and double entendres) Chris Diamantopoulos, Sean Hayes and Will Sasso co-star as Moe, Larry and Curly, respectively, in this madcap adventure which has the hapless trio landing their own reality show after uncovering a murder plot while trying to rescue their cash-strapped, childhood orphanage. Ensemble cast includes Jane Lynch, Jennifer Hudson, Sofia Vergara, Larry David, Isaiah Mustafi and Jersey Shore’s Snooki and The Situation.

“Woman Thou Art Loosed: On the 7th Day” (PG-13 for sexuality, profanity, violence, drug and alcohol use, and mature themes) Faith-based drama about a happilymarried couple (Blair Underwood and Sharon Leal) whose relationship is suddenly tested by dark secrets uncovered during the desperate search for their kidnapped, 4-year-old daughter (Zoe Carter). With Pam Greer, Bishop T.D. Jakes and Nicole Beharie.

INDEPENDENT & FOREIGN FILMS

“Bad Ass” (R for violence, torture, sexuality, nudity and pervasive profanity) Vigilante drama about a Vietnam vet (Danny Trejo) who decides to take the law into his own hands after the cops show no interest in solving the murder of his best friend (Harrison Page).

With Charles S. Dutton, Ron Perlman, Joyful Drake and Winter Ave Zoli.

“Deadline” (PG-13 for mature themes) Crime drama, set in rural Alabama, recounting the real-life story of an idealistic newspaper reporter (Steve Talley) who, in spite of death threats, investigated the unsolved murder, 20 years earlier, of an African-American child.

Cast includes Eric Roberts, Anna Felix and Jeremy Childs.

“Detention” (R for nudity, profanity, drug use, underage drinking, sexuality, violence and crude humor) Horror comedy about a sadistic serial killer (Carrie Wiita) who starts stalking high school students stuck in detention on the day of the senior prom. Cast includes Josh Hutcherson, Dane Cook and Shanley Caswell.

“Here” (Unrated) Romance drama, narrated

by Peter Coyote, about an American cartographer (Ben Foster) who falls in love with a photographer (Lubna Azabal) from a peasant family while on assignment in Armenia. With Aren Vatyan, Garik Chepchyan and Nerik Nersisyan.

(In English and Armenian with subtitles)

“The Lady” (R for violence and bloody images) Michelle Yeoh stars in the title role of this biopic about Nobel Peace Prize-winner Aung San Suu Kyi, the political prisoner recently-freed by the Burmese government after being kept under house arrest for 15 years.

With David Thewlis as her husband, Michael Aris, and featuring Jonathan Woodhouse, Susan Wooldridge and Benedict Wong. (In English and Burmese with subtitles)

“Last Will and Embezzlement” (Unrated) Tarnished Golden Years documentary, narrated by Artie Pasquale, chronicling the epidemic of financial exploitation of the elderly by avaricious charlatans. Featuring commentary

by Mickey Rooney, Pamela Glasner and Sandy Jolley.

“Late Bloomers” (Unrated) Relationship drama about a retired teacher (Isabella Rossellini) who pressures her architect husband (William Hurt) to make concessions to

age as they both turn 60. With Doreen Mantle, Kate Ashfield and Aidan McArdle.

“Life Happens” (R for sexuality) Babymama comedy about a wild party girl (Krysten Ritter) finally forced to mature when she ends up pregnant after a one-night stand. With Kate Bosworth, Jason Biggs and Rhys Coiro.

“Monsieur Lazhar” (PG-13 for mature themes, brief profanity and a disturbing image) Mohamed Fellag handles the titular role of this bittersweet dramedy, set in Montreal, about an illegal immigrant, grieving the murder of his wife and children, hired to replace a recently-deceased, elementary school teacher who committed suicide. With Sophie Nelisse, Emilien Neron and Danielle Proulx.

“Post Mortem” (Unrated) Romance drama, set against the backdrop of the overthrow of President Allende in Chile in 1973, revolving around a 55 year-old morgue attendant (Alfredo Castro) who embarks on a frantic search for a missing burlesque dancer (Antonia Zegers) he has a crush on, following a raid on her family’s home by government soldiers.

With Amparo Noguera, Jaime Vadell and Marcelo Alonso. (In Spanish with subtitles) “Touchback” (PG-13 for mature themes) Redemption drama about a second shot at glory given a former high school football star (Brian Presley) 15 years after the knee injury that ended his promising career. With Kurt Russell, Christine Lahti and Melanie Lynskey.

“Unraveled (Unrated)” White-collar crime documentary about Marc Dreier, a Manhattan attorney sentenced to 20 years in prison after being convicted of securities fraud for operating a Ponzi scheme, which fleeced his victims of over $700 million.

HOROSCOPES

April 12-18, 2012

ARIES Strong vibrations make for a series of dramatic interactions with others this week. Practice your art with your heart, and let your energy carry you upwards to your best, highest self.

Keep emotions calm.

TAURUS Restless feelings may arise over health matters, or perhaps education or the lack of it. Do what you need to do to feel comfortable with yourself. If it involves seeing a dentist or taking a class, what’s stopping you? Self-improvement can be a very enjoyable game!

GEMINI Surprises are in order this week, and you can roll with everything that comes at you unexpectedly. Healing can happen in a relationship if you just show up. That’s power! Use it for the good of others.

CANCER This week you may find yourself pulled in many directions; it’s a good time to say No to certain forceful or manipulative people who know where your buttons are. You may want to focus your bountiful attention on what exactly composes your very likeable nature. What do you love about it?

LEO You want a comrade who doesn’t place inordinate expectations or demands on you, and who is creative, intelligent, a good conversationalist, and highly spiritual. Perhaps you should be out looking this week with eyes wide open!

VIRGO Set a limit on what you can do for others this week. You’ll enjoy your feelings more if you are straightforward about refusing a less than appetizing assignment. Trust your feelings and say, “No, I won’t.” Clear bound333 help you define yourself.

LIBRA Business looks good this week as you discover a new way of increasing exposure to your product. Let hope and optimism lead you into new beginnings and fresh starts. All vibes are good. Go! SCORPIO You seem preoccupied this week and it’s because your mind is filled with a vision of love for the entire planet. Use your gifts to assist others in seeing the world as you do, in glorious color. Check the details on paperwork that you have to do, dreamer.

SAGITTARIUS Do you realize that you are the only one who can tell you what to think and how to feel? Let go of any behaviors that are keeping you from achieving the things you want to achieve. Be creative and positive this week.

CAPRICORN At work, some matters have been on hold but now you will get the green light. Continue to work as diligently as you have been in the pass to ensure success. Have faith that your plans are on target.

AQUARIUS A message this week may necessitate travel on your part, and you may feel obligated to do something you don’t want to. Let the energy flow past you and do what you think is best.

Who you are is who you are – be glad about it!

PISCES Use better judgment with regard to financial matters. Stop rationalizing. Money is important. Do something about the fact that you might find yourself broke more often than you wish. Continuing to deny it will delay doing something about it.

SOURCE: NNPA Service

Page 12

HEALTH

CLASSIFIEDS

Tri-State Defender

April 12 - 18, 2012

Healthy Church Challenge

TRI-STATE DEFENDER CLASSIFIEDS 203 Beale Street, Suite 200 Memphis, TN 38103 PH (901) 523-1818 FAX (901) 578-5037 HOURS: Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm

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Participants in The Healthy Church Challenge 100-day weight loss program follow the lead of fitness trainer Sherrika Holmes as she stretched, jumped, kicked and danced to up-tempo music. (Photos by Wiley Henry)

Autos

The following vehicle will be sold on 04/30/2012 at 9:00 a.m. at E &W Body Shop 719 E. Shelby Dr. Memphis TN 38109. 2004 Pontiac GrandPrix-OwnerLarry Echols VIN# 2G2WS522941233695 If all charges due are not paid before date of sale; it will be deemed a waiver of all rights in said vehicle.

Legal notices

NOTICE TO BIDDER(S) REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS DUE: WEDNESDAY, MAY 2, 2012 AT 4:00 PM Shelby County Government, Tennessee, an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer, seeks to retain the services of one or more engineering consulting firms to provide professional services related to the following: (RFQ #12-003-53) COUNTY WIDE ENGINEERING SERVICES HORIZONTAL CONSTRUCTION By order of MARK H. LUTTRELL, JR, MAYOR SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT

Fitness trainer Sherrika Holmes leads the participants of The Healthy Church Challenge 100-day weight loss program after they registered their weight on April 7 at the Church Wellness Center.

CHEF TIMOTHY “African-American women face a lower risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer compared to Caucasian-American women, yet they paradoxically face an increased breast cancer mortality hazard.”

Lisa A. Newman, M.D. M.P.H., F.A/C.S.

Breast cancer not a death sentence, if caught early

by Chef Timothy Moore Ph.D, N.M.D, C.N. Special to the Tri-State Defender

One in eight women will develop breast cancer. It is the second leading cause of death in women, exceeded only by lung cancer – about one out of 36, according to the American Cancer Society. Sound frightening? It certainly is.

Women have a right to fear breast cancer and the devastating effects it has on the body. If you’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer, you naturally assume the worse – life is over. And it’s hard to image anything else. But did you know that 2.6 million women are surviving breast cancer in the United States?

I can remember hearing those chilling words like it was yesterday when my mother called to tell me that she’d been diagnosed with breast cancer. That was more than 20 years ago when I received the call late one Sunday night. “I have breast cancer and I’m having a mastectomy in a few days,” she shared with me.

I didn’t know what to say or do after my mother dropped that bomb on me. But after regaining my composure, I asked how long had she known about the cancer and why she waited so long to tell me about it.

She said this: “I was afraid for myself and not knowing how long I had to live.”

Fear is one of the reasons why some African-American women don’t seek immediate breast cancer screening. But check this out: “African-American women face a lower risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer compared to Caucasian-American women, yet they paradoxically face an increased breast cancer mortality hazard,” said Lisa A. Newman, M.D. M.P.H., F.A/C.S., associate professor of surgery and director of the University of

Michigan Breast Care Center.

Breast cancer screening is a very important tool used to detect the disease before and after symptoms appear. If there is abnormal tissue, immediate treatment will help to expedite the healing process Dr. Timothy so those women who fear the inMoore evitable can breathe a sigh of relief.

A support group is also good for camaraderie. Gwendolyn Brown, who organized the Carin’ and Sharin’ Breast Cancer Education and Support Group in 1989, said women who suffer from breast cancer are “truly forgotten and need a voice.”

“I started Carin’ and Sharin’ because there is nothing else around for underserved women,” said Brown, an oncology social worker and patient advocate. “There are other support groups, but they don’t cater to the inner city, socio-economically disadvantaged minority woman.”

There is an education component to the support group that makes all the difference in the world, said Brown, adding that breast cancer screening is the key to survival. “It’s not enough to tell somebody that they need this done. You have to tell them why and then dispel the myths.

You have to explain it without fear, in a loving way, and be very compassionate about it.”

For women who fear dying from breast cancer, Brown said those women who suffer from breast cancer have other health problems to be concerned about.

“Sometimes breast cancer doesn’t take them from this world. A lot of

times, it’s diabetes, a lack of exercise, and a need to drop those pounds that will take them out of this world,” she said.

Breast cancer has touched the lives of women of all ethnic groups. However, while the death rate for AfricanAmerican women is 32 percent higher than their Caucasian-American women counterparts, there is still hope, if the disease is caught in time.

There are two types of tumors: benign and malignant. Benign tumors are not cancerous, because the cells are normal and do not pose a threat to life. They can usually be surgically removed or treated with drugs.

Cells from benign tumors do not spread to other parts of the body.

Once treated, they usually don’t come back.

Malignant tumors are cancerous.

These mutated cells divide without control or order, and they can invade and damage nearby tissues and organs. Also, cancer cells can break away from a malignant tumor and enter the bloodstream or the lymphatic system, forming new tumors in other organs.

There are many effective strategies that can help reduce your risk for breast cancer. One is to know the factors that can contribute to the disease. Of course, lifestyle and diet are among the biggest factors that determine your risk for breast cancer.

“I see too many women who’re suffering,” Brown said. “I want the suffering to stop.”

(Dr. Timothy Moore teaches nutrition, heart disease and diabetes reversal through a plant-based lifestyle. He is a professional speaker, wellness coach and personal plant-based chef. He can be reached by email at cheftimothy @cheftimothymoore.com or visit him on the Web sites at www.chef timothymoore.com or www.twitter .com/cheftimmoore.)

NOTICE TO BIDDER(S) REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS DUE: WEDNESDAY, MAY 2, 2012 AT 4:00 PM Shelby County Government, Tennessee, an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer, seeks to retain the services of one or more engineering consulting firms to provide professional services related to the following: (RFQ 12-003-54) COUNTY WIDE ENGINEERING SERVICES VERTICAL CONSTRUCTION By order of MARK H. LUTTRELL, JR, MAYOR SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT PUBLIC NOTICE EXECUTORʼS NOTICE Estate of TERRY WAYNE GREEN, late of Memphis City, County of Shelby, and State of Tennessee, deceased. Letters of testamentary of said estate having been granted to the undersigned, all persons firms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 21st day of April, 2012 for settlement and closure to: Office of Executor: Clinton-Levi: Ali c/o 384 E. GOODMAN ROAD Apt. #229, Southaven [zip code exempt] MISSISSIPPI STATE PUBLIC NOTICE Notice of Name Correction Public notice is hereby given that Terry Wayne Green a/k/a Terry Green has corrected his name to Clinton Levi Ali Effective 3/21/2012.

ALL INTERESTED BIDDERS The Board of Education of the Memphis City Schools will accept written bids for STEM HVAC Installation at East High School and to replace Spray Booth at Maintenance Warehouse, Farmville Road.

Visit our website for additional information: www.mcsk12.net/departments.asp, Procurement Services link, click on Bids & RFPs. Questions concerning bids/RFP should be addressed to Procurement Services at (901) 416-5376.

Thank you for supporting Memphis City Schools.

Jacqueline Saunders, Director Memphis City Schools – Procurement Services

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LEGAL NOTICE REQUEST FOR STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS to provide an updated Part 150 Noise Study at Memphis International Airport Memphis, Tennessee MSCAA Project No. 12-1344-00 Statements of Qualifications for furnishing an updated Part 150 noise study, as hereinafter set forth, will be received by Staff Services Division, Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority (MSCAA), 3505 Tchulahoma Road, Memphis, Tennessee, 38118, until 2:00 PM Local Time on Friday, May 4, 2012. Use the above address for all means of delivery. A complete Information Package with submittal instructions, additional data, selection criteria and response format may be found on our website (www.mscaa.com) on or after April 13, 2012.

The Scope of Services generally consists of updating the 2005 Part 150 Noise Study in accordance of 14 CFR Part 150.

Work includes, but is not necessarily limited to, inventory of operational activities, inventory of land use around airport, update of aircraft operations forecasts, development of existing and future noise maps showing DNL 65, 70, and 75 dBA noise contours, recommendations regarding noise monitoring, and development and evaluation of noise control measures. The noise study will assess the current (2012) and the future (2017) noise environments, identify compatible and incompatible land uses within the noise contours, and recommend methods to mitigate noise and land use incompatibility.

All Respondents are hereby notified that all updates, addenda and additional information, if any, shall be posted to the MSCAA website and Respondents are responsible for checking the MSCAA website up to the time of the SOQ receipt.

The MSCAA, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C. 2000d to 2000d-4a and Title 49, Part 26, Code of Federal Regulations, Department of Transportation, Subtitle A, Office of the Secretary, Part 21, Nondiscrimination in Federally Assisted Programs of the Department of Transportation issued pursuant to such Act, hereby notifies all Proposers that it will affirmatively ensure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs) will be afforded full opportunity to submit proposals in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of age, race, sex, color, national origin or disability in its hiring and employment practices, or in admission to, access to, or operation of its programs, services and activities. The DBE participation goal for this contract is 11% in accordance with the requirements of the Information Package.

This project will be funded with Federal Grants. A Notice to Proceed for Professional Services will be issued once funding is established. The MSCAA reserves the right to reject any and all responses to this solicitation, and is under no obligation to award this project to any of the firms or teams of firms responding to this request.

MEMPHIS-SHELBY COUNTY AIRPORT AUTHORITY Larry D. Cox, President & CEO

Real estate

The Greenwood CME Church has lease space available for schools, day care, or office use. Please contact 901-744-7531 for an appointment.

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NOTICE TO ALL PROPERTY OWNERS

As required by § 67-5-508, Tennessee Code Annotated, the property assessment records of Shelby County will be available for public inspection in Room 619, 160 North Main Street, and at 1075 Mullins Station Road. These records may be inspected Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Any person desiring to inspect these records may do so at the above times and places. Property assessment records may also be reviewed through the Assessor’s web site at www.assessor.shelby.tn.us.

The Shelby County Board of Equalization will begin its annual session to examine and equalize county assessments on May 1, 2012.

THE COUNTY BOARD WILL ACCEPT APPEALS FOR THE 2012 TAX YEAR UNTIL 4:30 P.M., JUNE 29, 2012, THE LAST DAY OF ITS REGULAR SESSION. The Board of Equalization is open weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 1079 Mullins Station Road. Any property owner who wishes to file a complaint or appeal to the County Board of Equalization should appear before the Board in person or by personal appearance of an agent for the owner who has the owner’s written authorization. Failure to appeal an assessment may result in the assessment becoming final without further right of appeal.

Cheyenne Johnson Shelby County Assessor of Property

NEWS

Tri-State Defender

ERMA

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

Man of conviction…

Father Michael Pfleger, who has headed the St. Sabina Church – the largest AfricanAmerican Catholic church in Chicagoʼs Archdiocese – since 1983, received the I Am A Man Award from The April 4th Foundation, Inc. during the groupʼs 12th Annual Commemorative Awards Banquet at The Cannon Center on April 4.(Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)

SCHOOLS

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

charged with helping Memphis and Shelby Country step toward a merged system.

Noting that operating a successful school system is no easy task, Jones fielded this TSD question: Who will be responsible if they (suburban

cities) discover that their tax base cannot really afford to build, maintain and operate a safe school system?

“The county school system is the default school system for this entire district, if they fail the ball will be handed on to us,” said Jones. “The difference is that we cannot discriminate.

The unified board has to build a system that has no choice of

who it educates, regardless of race or socio-economic status.”

An all-out effort must be made to create a system that is “as welcome as possible to accept and is dedicated to educating children who may have suffered setbacks by no doing of their own,” said Jones.

“We cannot turn anyone away and we will never work to have a system that does.”

2012 Women of Excellence Honorees

Beverly Anderson, National Homebased Business Chamber of Commerce Shante Avant, Womenʼs Foundation for a Greater Memphis Cassandra Bell Warren, 4 Success Realty Audrey Bonner, EEOC Anna Bradford, Kirby Pines Kenya Bradshaw, Stand for Children Phyllis Brunson, City of Memphis Lou Etta Burkins, New Sardis Baptist Church Deloris Burrow, State Farm Insurance Linda Chism Leaks, The Med Kim Clark, Action News 5 - WMCTV Loverta Dorris, Memphis Mental Health Institute Angela Garland, Girls of Leadership Yolanda Gates, Epiphany Firm Freda Greene Martin, Child Welfare Training Center | Univ. of Memphis, Dept. of Social Work Emily Greer, St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital Teresa Hall, Transitional Anger Management Services Janet Hooks, City of Memphis Vivian Henry, Trumbull Laboratories Evie Horton, Community Activist & Volunteer Regina Hubbard, ERA Legacy Realty Rose Jackson-Flenorl, FedEx Services Stephanie Jones-White, Memphis Public Library

WOMEN

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

tively touching the lives of others, said Smith, noting that 2012 is the fifth annual celebration.

Over 200 outstanding African-American professionals and community leaders have been honored for their civic contributions and career achievements.

The 2012 Women of Excellence will be celebrated amidst food, inspiration, fashion and entertainment. Rodney Dunigan, news anchor for ABC24 will serve as Master of Ceremony and will guide a morning filled with performances by the critically acclaimed band Prosody, along with other special guest performances.

The event has had overwhelming attendance in the past, a testament said Smith, to the abundance of talented, committed and visionary African American women in the Greater Memphis community.

“This rich pool of talent and the commitment they demonstrate each day is part of the unique treasures that make Memphis a great city! I am glad that we at The New TriState Defender can take the lead in acknowledging their contributions to the growth and betterment of our community.”

As with its Men of Excellence Awards, the TSD’s Women of Excellence is an annual awards event. Honorees are selected based upon the following criteria: African-American woman executive, business

Page 13

April 12 - 18, 2012

Loyce Lambert Ryan, Shelby County Government Sonja Lavender, First Tennessee Bank Yolanda Lunford, Memphis City Schools Elizabeth McGhee, Elizabethʼs House Sheila Middleton, Magna Bank Thelma Nelms, Mission Possible Christian Outreach Service Mission Verna Nickelberry, Ordinary People Magazine Summer Owens, Fedex | “Life After Birth: A Memoir of Survival & Success” Denise Perino, State Farm Insurance Sharon Richmond, Kirby Pines Christina Rosenthal, Paradigm Dental Center Linda Seagrest, Trinity Community Coalition Outreach Jaria Sharkey, My Leading Young Lady, Inc. Dianne Simmons, FedEx Services Cynthia Stewart, Author/Minister Joy Stout, University of Memphis Magnolia “Nan” Tolbert, Pentecostal Temple Institutional C.O.G.I.C. Sandra Upchurch, Memphis City Schools Tera Upshaw, United Healthcare Christina Watkins, Methodist LeBonheur Healthcare Deborah Williams, 4 Success Realty Dorcas Young, Shelby County Ryan White Program

E W

WOMEN OF EXCELLENCE

owner, community or non-profit leader, proven success within her profession/industry, positive role model whose contributions encourage others and highly active in community service or organizational involvement leading to positive impact on the lives of others.

Celebrating 61 years of continuous publication this year, the TSD is located at 203 Beale Street, Suite 200, in downtown Memphis. It is one of six newspapers owned by Real Times Media, whose newspaper group also includes the Michi-

gan Chronicle, Michigan FrontPage, New Pittsburgh Courier, Atlanta World and Chicago Defender. Collectively, Real Times Inc. is the nation’s largest African-American owned and operated newspaper organization in the country. As an organization, Real Times Inc. is dedicated to sustaining its presence as the leading source of African American related news, entertainment and lifestyle information and marketing services.

It is the goal of The New TriState Defender to inform, inspire, and elevate the quality of life of its readers through dynamic print content, great web and digital presence, effective social media and impactful events. The TSD website is located at www.tristatedefender.com.

NOTE: Ticket and table reservations are first come, first serve.

Mrs. Laws is also remembered by other close friends as a political force, community advocate and loyal confidante.

“During my 22 years as congressman for the 9th District in Tennessee, Erma was known by so many as a columnist for the prominent Tri-State Defender over four decades, but she was also a beloved educator of Memphis City Schools,” said former Congressman Harold Ford Sr. “If you were not mentioned in Erma’s column, you knew you had not arrived yet.”

“Erma became part of our family over Sunday dinners, political events and treasured conversations over the years,” said Ford. “I join with Erma’s many other close friends and family in saying that we love her and will miss her.”

Ford, whose family is a leader in the Memphis funeral industry, recounted a visit he had with Mrs. Laws just before she passed. He shared that Laws asked him to take care of final arrangements in case something happened to her. Ford said when he replied that he didn’t want to talk about that yet, Laws shot back, “Well maybe I need to call Lewis and Sons (a Ford family competitor) or somebody.” Ford said they both got a big laugh out of that.

“Her spirits were high, and she was the indomitable Erma Laws until the very end. I’m going to miss my friend.”

‘She knew her time was near’

“I got a call from Erma Sunday morning about eight,” said Henry. She told me, ‘Wiley, I’m going to go ahead and have the heart procedure

done.’ She was having severe heart palpitations, and she suffered from congestive heart failure.

“About two that (Monday) afternoon, I received a call that she didn’t make it. I was really stunned and saddened to hear that. Erma and I became close when I joined the Tri-State Defender staff back in 1984. She had already been with the paper for more than 30 years.”

Henry said he learned a vast amount from “Erma.”

“We all understood that she knew how important and how relevant the black press was to the African-American community. Erma knew that her stories were recording an invaluable social history of Memphis’ black elite. She gave value to those who tried to improve our quality of life through social and civic endeavors. We have all lost a great woman,” said Henry.

“I am convinced that she had some sense that it might be the last time she would speak to me. Erma’s heart was so weak. I will always cherish that last conversation with her.”

‘I’m just so tired’

Randy Wade, special assistant to Congressman Steve Cohen, said Mrs. Laws had been in the hospital for several days before he learned of that development.

“I was dealing with my own health issues at the time.

But I spoke with her two days before she passed,” said Wade.

“We became close from the ’70s and ’80s when Erma started a promotion for the newspaper. Readers were asked to vote on ‘The Mayor of Beale Street.’ I was elected one year, and she held the Bible while I took the oath of office.”

Wade said he often referred to Mrs. Laws as “my second

wife. Everybody knew I had two wives. We would go to lunch often and talk several times a week. I called Erma last week and told her I was on my way to the hospital.

She said, ‘Randy, I don’t want you to come. I’m just so tired.

I’ve been in therapy all day. I just want to rest. I’m so tired of the pain.”

Mrs. Laws, said Wade, “endured excruciating pain day after day in her legs. I had seen her suffering over the years. There was just something about the way she said, ‘I’m just so tired.’ That was our last conversation. My heart is heavy with grief.”

‘A real nice funeral’

“Erma and I talked to each other every day for many years. I wanted to visit her in the hospital, but she told me not to come,” said longtime friend Minerva Johnican.

“When she told me she was going to go ahead and have the heart surgery, I asked her how she felt about it. Erma said she had talked to a priest – because she was Catholic, and she had talked to God.” Johnican said her friend had a peace about the whole situation.

“We talked about making pre-arrangements for her funeral because there was nothing in place. This was three days before she passed. Erma said she wanted a mahogany casket with a rosary on it.

“I want a real nice funeral, Minerva, a real nice funeral,” Johnican recalled. “ Erma told me to wait until she came home to visit her.

She never made it home. I think she knew.”

Services will be at noon Thursday (April 12) at St. Augustine Church, with burial will to follow in Elmwood Cemetery. N.J. Ford and Sons Funeral Home.

SPORTS Tri-State Defender, Thursday, April 12 - 18, 2012, Page 14

This time, the biz got done Boxing on Beale delivers punch

Special to the Tri-State Defender

by Jonwalter Lewis On a fight card dubbed “Unfinished Business,” Monyette Flowers came up big, winning by a TKO in the second round of the featured bout at the Omni New Daisy Theatre on Tuesday (April 10) night.

Flower’s opponent was Tyrone Dowdy, who went the distance against Flowers in a losing effort at the New Daisy on Feb. 28. Determined to bring his fans a higher-level of satisfaction, Flowers of Flowers Power boxing had vowed that he was “coming back to put somebody to sleep.”

As both boxers began with a frenzy, throwing punches at each other, it seemed like the fight would be ending in the first round.

Flowers had Dowdy against the ropes mid-first round. What looked to be a knockout was only a push by Flowers (which he apologized for).

After the first round, it was very much one sided.

Round 2: Flowers approached Dowdy as if he had “unfinished business,” greeting Dowdy with a barrage of punches. Sensing danger, the referee stepped in to stop the fight, making Flowers the winner by TKO. Tuesday’s boxing card was a product of CDA Promotions in conjunction with Flowers Power Boxing. Flowers Power links Monyette Flowers with his three brothers – Emmanuel, Nicholas and Duran – in a budding effort to promote up and coming fighters, giving them chances they did not have. Brothers Emmanuel and Nicholas were be featured on the fight card. Brother Duran is a trainer.

Other winners of the night were: Nicholas Flowers-Memphis, (KO, First Round) Anthony Bailey-Memphis, (TKO, Second Round) Emmanuel Flowers-Memphis, (KO, Second Round) Triston Todd-Memphis, (TKO, Second Round)

Emmanuel Flowers of Memphis delivers a left hook to the body of Justin Marshall from Jackson, Tenn. Flowers won the fight by TKO in the second round. (Photo by Warren Roseborough) Monyette Flowers left nothing to chance in the rematch against Tyrone Dowdy, winning by TKO in round two. (Photo by Jonwalter Lewis)

GRIZZ TRACK

Grizz grind working in the ‘Wild Wild West’ Special to the Tri-State Defender

by Kelley Evans

There’s a battle going on and the Grizzlies have pulled out all the stops. It’s the clash of the Western Conference, the “Wild-Wild West.”

That’s how Memphis Grizzlies guard O. J. Mayo refers to the conference that’s piled with teams competing for a playoff spot.

“The Western Conference is usually the best conference from top to bottom,” Mayo told The New Tri-State Defender. “It’s really difficult going down the stretch. It’s a little fatigue. A lot of games crammed up in a short amount of days. You have to fight through it.”

The Grizz have been fighting, and winning of late.

Memphis has won its last three games in five days at home, garnering wins against the Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Clippers and on Wednesday (April 11) in front of 15,239 fans at the FedExForum, the Phoenix Suns.

Memphis’ defeat of Phoenix extends the teams winning streak to four games. Mayo finished with 15 points and four rebounds.

“They (Phoenix) have won two out of three (against the Grizzlies),” Mayo said. “They do a great job of spreading the floor. They key thing is making sure you don’t get so much into their style of play that you forget to play defense, and the first half it was kind of like

that. The second half we knew that we could get a lot of stops and continue scoring.”

Grizzlies forward Rudy Gay led the team with a season-high 32 points and seven rebounds.

This marked the first time a Grizzlies player has scored more than 30 points this season, with Gay looking to compete in his first playoff run.

Memphis is holding on to the fifth seed in the Western Conference, and is only one and a half games behind the Clippers.

“We’re still battling,” Gay said. “We’re still bunched up in the West. You see in the Eastern Conference they can start resting teams. We can’t do that. We have to play throughout. With the compiled schedule and the shortened playoffs, it’s going to be tough.”

Zach Randolph brought power off the bench, scoring 17 points and grabbing a game-high nine rebounds.

“It was really important for us,” Randolph said of the win.

He explained the toughness of the Western Conference.

“It’s really difficult. It’s tough. Each game is a battle.

We have to come prepared, play hard and play together.”

Phoenix’ loss to the Grizzlies bumped them out of the eighth seed.

“It’s really difficult for us because we’re not in the playoffs and we’re trying to catch teams,” said Suns head coach Alvin Gentry. “For us, every game is like a playoff game.

We just have to keep battling

and see where we can get. I think they’re (Grizzlies) a very good team. I think Lionel (Hollins) has them playing great.

“When you can go on the road and you beat the Lakers, you win at Oklahoma City, beat Dallas here in a game and win at Miami, that’s pretty good,” said Gentry. “As long as they’re healthy, I think they’re as good as anybody we’ve played in the West.”

Suns’ guard Steve Nash finished with 11 points and a game-high 11 assists, registering his 27th double-double of the season. Center Morcin Gortat led the team in scoring with 19 points.

The Grizzlies left Memphis Wednesday night, headed to San Antonio to face the Spurs, who are currently the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference and battling the Oklahoma City Thunder for the top spot.

“It’s a big game,” said Gay of the matchup with the Spurs.

“We really can’t lose right now. We’re going to keep pushing and pushing. We’re just taking them as another team. Obviously, it’s going to be a little emotional being that we’ve been there and have a little history with them. The biggest thing is just trying to keep these wins up.”

NOTE: Grizz Guard Tony Allen has missed the last four games due to a facial laceration he suffered in the game against the Mavericks on April 4 in Dallas. He is listed as dayto-day.

Rudy Gay scored a season high 32 against the Suns Wednesday. The Grizzlies won 104-93. (Photo

by Warren Roseborough)