7 11 2012

VOL. 61, No. 27

July 5 - 11, 2012

www.tsdmemphis.com

75 Cents

Luttrell makes pitch to stay focused amid elections suit

“I’m not surprised by the lawsuit.

However, I was shocked by the language. The lawsuit needs to be based on constitutional merits and not on race. Additionally, state law allows for these special elections. They should be held as planned.”

– Shelby County Mayor Mark H. Luttrell Jr. kajanaku@tri-statedefender.com

by Karanja A. Ajanaku

The headline on the news release from the office of Shelby County Mayor Mark H. Luttrell Jr. declared that he disagreed with the lawsuit that the County Commission filed to block municipal school elections.

If given the face-to-face chance, some who have read the 6-paragraph release announcing Luttrell’s stance would have asked, “What were you thinking?”

Mark H. The New TriLuttrell Jr. State Defender on Tuesday took advantage of a sit-down opportunity with Luttrell, who was open to explaining his thought pattern. For Luttrell, any such conversation has to start with context.

The whole education question now facing Memphis and Shelby County is probably “the issue of our generation,” he said. “We are in the process of transforming an education system that has been in existence for over 100 years. And we’re transforming it really by going against the national trend.”

That “progressive” trend, he said, is to take large systems and break them SEE SCHOOLS ON PAGE 2

- INSIDE -

• Clarence Thomas: Worse than a member of the KKK. See Opinion, page 4.

• TREPS to some, young entrepreneurs to others.

See Business, page 5.

• Hall of Famer Verties Sails Jr. steps down. See Community, page 11.

Mayor A C Wharton Jr. announced his new Neighborhood Economic Vitality effort and launched three initiatives designed to impact targeted Memphis neighborhoods during a press conference at Victory Bicycle Studio, 2549 Broad Ave., on Monday (July 2). (Photo by Nathan W Berry)

Mayorʼs initiative presents:

Possibilities for the ‘Core’ of the City besmith@tri-statedefender.com

by Bernal E. Smith II Onzie Horne, Memphis’ deputy director of Community Enhancement, was a proverbial cornucopia of information on Monday’s bus ride through various “hoods” of Memphis. As we slowly came to a stop in South Memphis, the corner of Mississippi and Walker, he eloquently pointed out key historic sites and their significance, particularly to the AfricanAmerican community in times past.

Although the bus tour and announcement

by Mayor Wharton’s Innovation Delivery Team was clearly about the future of inner

city Memphis, Horne’s historic accounts helped shape a context of a time when those communities were thriving with business, commerce, connection and appeal.

Time, urban sprawl, abandonment, failed experiments, and a lack of clear focus and directions were amongst the things that led communities such as South Memphis into points of steep decline from the heydays of which Horne spoke. Marred by blighted buildings, lost retail business and a lack of new business investment, Binghampton, the Crosstown Cleveland/Madison Corridor and a defined portion of South Memphis all represent neglected parts of our City, the core of the City that the administration is focusing on

for this aggressive new plan.

Funded by a $5 million grant from the Bloomberg Foundation and matching funds from local foundations and philanthropist, the Mayor’s Innovation Delivery Team was founded as a “hands-on” team charged with bringing unique and implementable ideas to solving challenges within the city of Memphis. The two areas of primary focus for the team established in the grant are to revitalization the inner city or core of Memphis and the reduction of youth handgun violence.

Monday’s (July 2) tour for the media, led by Innovation Delivery Team head Doug McSEE INITIATIVE ON PAGE 3

Moving on time for ‘The Blvd’s’ Rev. Frank Thomas Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Tony Jones Eddie Starks Jr.

• Big things and bigger dreams for 7-year-old Eddie Starks Jr. See Entertainment, page 8.

MEMPHIS WEEKEND

FRIDAY

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

SATURDAY

H- 9 8o - L - 7 7o P a r tl y C l ou dy

REGIONAL TEMPS LITTLE ROCK NASHVILLE JACKSON, MS

Friday H-100 L-77 H-100 L-78 H-92 L-78

SUNDAY

H- 9 6o - L - 7 6o Partl y Cl o udy

Saturday H-99 L-77 H-99 L-78 H-92 L-72

Sunday H-97 L-77 H-97 L-77 H-93 L-73

First Lady Michelle Obama, who spoke in Memphis on June 28, delivers remarks at the African Methodist Episcopal Churchʼs General Conference in Nashville the same day.

(White House photo) See related story page 2.

First Lady brings history home at AME session The New Tri-State Defender Staff

Drawing upon the rich history of the nation’s oldest African-American denomination, First Lady Michelle Obama encouraged all Americans to get involved in the lives of the nation’s families and neighborhoods and the country as a whole.

Mrs. Obama addressed the 49th Quadrennial Session of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church’s General Conference held in Nashville on June 28, the same day she spoke at a Memphis fundraiser.

The AME church traces its roots back to the time of slavery in the

late 1700s, with the minister who started the first AME church doing so after his former church demanded African Americans worship in a segregated balcony. Since then, AME churches have been stops on the Underground Railroad, hosts of civil rights marches, and founders of universities.

The lessons and the legacy of the AME Church are part of our story as Americans, and as citizens, and we have inherited the responsibility to be active and engaged in our democracy, Mrs. Obama said.

The first lady also spoke about SEE OBAMA ON PAGE 2

The congregation of Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church – The Blvd – will gather Saturday (July 7) at the church’s midtown campus, where they will hear more about the unexpected departure of the megachurch’s Senior Pastor, the Rev. Frank Thomas.

Thomas, who has led the church since 1999, will retire as the church’s pastor and from active ministry in December. He will continue to serve as church CEO and pastor until a replacement is selected.

Word of Thomas’ pending exit began to spread on Monday after an “e News from The Blvd” message was circulated. The message served as a members-only invitation to Saturday’s “Chat with Pastor Frank” and included a link to his retirement letter.

“I know that the rumor mill and grapevine will have all kinds of untrue reasons, half information, misinformation, gossip and downright scattered opinions to cloud the facts.

But I wanted you to know the truth,” Thomas wrote in the retirement letter.

Noting that he began contemplating retirement three years ago, Thomas said he alerted church leadership that he was thinking and praying about the move, agreeing that he would make

Rev. Frank Thomas

his intentions known by June 30, 2012. He chose that course to create a smooth transition in pastoral leadership and “so that the church would not experience the disruption or needless stress and anxiety of an unplanned transition of the Senior

Pastor.”

Thomas explained that God called him to be a pastor and also called him to teach.

“I have suppressed the call to teach for many years in order to serve as a pastor,” wrote Thomas. “In recent years, the call to teach has become stronger and more present in my spirit, and I began to seriously contemplate my retirement from pasturing to engage the teaching call on my life.”

The Church Council has formed a transition team and formulated a transition plan.

Interim spokesperson for the church, the Rev. Kia Granberry, who serves as Director of Ministry and Leadership Development, said the anSEE THOMAS ON PAGE 2

NEWS

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SCHOOLS

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

down into smaller systems.

“We’ve taken two larger systems and created an even larger system. That bothers me.”

Still, he accepts living with the structure that’s in place.

That includes the Transition Planning Commission (TPC) that has been put in place to recommend how to structure a combined Memphis City Schools-Shelby County Schools system. He calls the TPC, of which he is a member, “a progressive step.”

The TPC provided an opportunity to slow down in the midst of a highly-pitched debate about the future of education, get cooler heads at the table, look comprehensively and try to come up with a wellreasoned and thought out plan for a 150,000 student potential system, he said.

The TPC has tried to break down the issue of bigness, pushing a proposal that talks of six districts or regions that would be more manageable, said Luttrell, who is strong supporter of that approach. He envisions, ultimately, several different approaches to education in the local area, including a unified school system (the largest), charter schools, achievement schools (lowerperforming schools run by the state), private schools, municipal schools and home schools.

It’s a paradigm shift and not all bad, he said. “Our objective has got to be how do we raise the standard of education for our children.”

Lawsuits along the way are not surprising, he said, picking up on a theme in the news release his office issued on June 27. And “friendly lawsuits” often can provide clarity, he added.

“I took exception to that lawsuit (filed by the County Commission last week). It was the tone and tenor, the racial overtones. There are many, many questions that can be answered that would clarify and clear up some of the concerns that we have. But the lawsuit took as fact certain racial, discriminatory actions, or what they perceive as racially discriminatory,” he said, saying the suit should be focused on the constitutional issues of

THOMAS

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

nouncement of Thomas’ departure has been a tangle to deal with, adding that he has the church’s full, if somewhat sad, support.

“It will not be abrupt because he is going to be here with us during the transition, serving in his full capacity while we deal with the emotional experience of him leaving. He has been in a period of discernment regarding what he feels God has called on him to do and he feels he must go into teaching to help shape the next generation of ministers,” said Granberry.

“He is already known for his expertise in the field, here and worldwide, so he is doing what he feels God has led him

• The Shelby County Commissioners have filed a federal lawsuit to stop the vote on six, Aug. 2 ballot questions to form suburban municipal school districts.

• The suit asserts, among other things, that the formation of separate school districts is intended to create racially segregated school systems.

• Early voting is set to begin on July 13.

• County commissioners Wyatt Bunker, Terry Roland and Chris Thomas have questioned whether the lawsuit filed by the Shelby County Commission is legal, asserting that it violated the state’s open meetings law.

• The Shelby County Attorney has ruled that the session that yielded the action that moved the lawsuit to Memphis federal court did not violate Tennessee’s open meetings law.

AT A GLANCE

equal protection.

“To say that our legislature was racially motivated, to say that municipalities are racially motivated is conjecture at this point.”

Race is “without a doubt an issue in our community,” said Luttrell. “To loosely throw the term racism around runs the risk of really inflaming this issue beyond just the question of constitutional standard.”

The “unintended consequences of actions” is worthy of debate, Luttrell said.

With some arguing that a move to smaller districts within the unified school system could lead to homogenous districts that would deny students the opportunity to learn in integrated settings, Luttrell said, “That would be an argument worthy of making, but to say that we are moving that way for racial reasons, I am really starting to take issue.

“To say this was done because of your desire to create a homogenous system, I think that is a stretch at this point when you can make legal arguments that are valid.”

So, what then is Luttrell’s focus?

“In an environment that is racially charged to begin with, unless we have definitive evidence that race was indeed a factor – and they don’t present any definitive evidence (in the lawsuit), I say stay focused on the unintended consequences of actions and let’s litigate that.”

The schools’ issue has been racially tinged, meaning racially motivated, on both sides for a while, said Luttrell, emphasizing again that he wants to concentrate on creating the best school system pos-

to do. The staff had already been notified and we were here with him last night (Monday) when he explained it to the members. The meeting took about an hour, but most of the time was spent with people talking informally about the announcement and their feelings about it.”

The church’s congregation includes District 3 City Councilman Harold Collins.

“As a member of The Blvd and having served as a Moderator of the Congregation, Dr. Thomas has provided great leadership,” said Collins. “His style of teaching/preaching has transformed our church into a critical thinking church.

“We now use our creative God given minds to interpret the gospel. Pastor Frank challenged us to use the word of God daily and by doing the

sible. The crucial facts are that we are below the state standards in everything from graduation rates to dropout rates to achievement rates at various plateaus, he said.

“We need to be focused on creating a system that addresses getting more people through high school and getting people college-ready, having our children enter the first grade ready, and we are not meeting those standards now.”

Still, some clearly are unsettled by his position as announced in last week’s release, and the mayor was reminded that he did not have to make a statement. Why did he decide that he needed to do so?

“I feel strongly that if we are not careful, this whole issue is going to divide our community along racial lines and I am trying as best I can to keep us focused on the work of the Transition Planning Commission, which is a very fact-based proposal that we are trying now to persuade the school board that it is a viable plan.

We are trying to get a dollar figure attached to it to see what it is going to cost us and move it into deliberations in County Commission. It is diversionary to get off into what we are talking about now.”

Yes, it’s possible that his efforts could have the opposite effect of what he intends, said Luttrell.

“I could remain silent on something I feel passionate about or I could get in and try to steer this thing back to the center,” he said, “where we stayed focused on the issues of creating a good school system and how we are going to go about affording that school system.”

right thing in all relationships.”

Betty Boone, president of the 100 Black Women Memphis Chapter (and 2011 TSD Women of Excellence Award recipient) said the announcement of “Pastor Frank’s” retirement brought great sadness to her.

“He taught us through his teaching, preaching and living how to live a life pleasing to God and to ‘do the right thing’ in all relationships regardless of the consequences. We love him and sister Joyce (Thomas’s wife) and will miss his humble and courageous spirit.”

Thomas succeeded the Rev. Alvin O’Neal Jackson. In addition to its location at 70 North Bellevue Blvd., the church now has a second location referred to as The Blvd East at the Clark Opera Memphis Center at the corner of Wolf River and Kirby Road.

MCS Food Service Program rolls on to July 27 Memphis City Schools’ 2012 Summer Food Service Program for students continues through July 27.

During the summer, the MCS Division of Nutrition Services provides healthy meals to school-aged children throughout Memphis and Shelby County at more than 400 locations, including

Tri-State Defender

July 5 - 11, 2012

schools, community centers, camps and churches. Each weekday, team members at the Central Nutrition Center on Jackson Avenue prepare 15,000 to 16,000 lunches, 3,000 to 4,000 breakfasts, and 8,000 to 9,000 snacks on average. The Summer Food Service Program is funded through the U.S. Department of Agri-

culture; meals are provided at no charge to students.

Calvin Johnson, coordinator, MCS Division of Nutrition Services, said, “We are delighted to prepare and deliver meals to any local youth group or agency.”

For more information, call 901-416-5550 or visit www.mcsk12.net.

First Lady connects during Memphis visit The New Tri-State Defender Staff

“Sacrificed!”

That’s the verb that resonated from Michelle Obama as the first lady shared elements of her upbringing with a Memphis-area crowd at the Canon Center on Wednesday (June 27). The reference was to her parents and the posture they took to make sure she and her brother had what each needed to succeed.

“They held us to the same high standard of excellence because they wanted us both to have the same kind of education they could only dream of,” she said.

Speaking at an Obama for America fundraising reception, Mrs. Obama pitched the need to move forward focused on being the type of positive influences on young people that her parents were to her.

Standing at a podium, Mrs. Obama was framed by a backdrop that read, in part, “FORWARD. BARACK OBAMA.COM:” Her parents could not afford to contribute much to her college education, with much of the support coming from college student loans and grants, she said.

“How many people can relate to that?”

There were an ample number in the crowd who could relate, raising their hands and shouting out their recognition of the point she was making.

She continued with her story, saying her father was proud to send his kids to college.

“Every semester he was determined to pay his share of that bill on time,” she said. “He was so proud to be sending his kids to college.”

With her father determined to lessen the financial burden on his son and daughter, neither she nor her brother ever “missed a registration deadline

OBAMA

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

the quiet heroes whose names we might not know – individuals working behind the scenes, day after day without recognition, helping to make communities stronger. “Time and again,” Mrs. Obama said, “history has shown us that there is nothing more powerful than ordinary citizens coming together for a just cause.”

The crowd, estimated at 10,000, was spirited. In one particularly noteworthy moment after her keynote address, Mrs. Obama returned backstage where she was greeted by Dr. Jayme Coleman Williams.

In her speech, the first lady mentioned how Williams had worked tirelessly in the AME Church for decades.

The two women – one, a quiet hero and the other, the First Lady of the United States – hugged and chatted. Dr. Williams, 93, was a bundle of energy and spoke passionately about encouraging young people to stay engaged and to keep

With her husband facing a stiff election challenge, First Lady Michelle Obama reached out for Memphis-area support. (Courtesy photos) because his check was late,” she said.

The reception was open to the public, with ticket prices ranging from $500 for individual tickets to $5,000 for two reception tickets and photo with the first lady. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Obama Victory Fund 2012, a joint fundraising committee authorized by Obama for America, the Democratic National Committee and the Democratic Parties in various states supporting President Obama’s 2012 campaign.

Billed as a fundraising event, it clearly had the feel of a rally at various points. Mrs. Obama arrived after 1 p.m., moving to a room to take photos with patrons who eagerly lined up for the opportunity.

Then she moved to the hall where she spoke after being introduced warmly by an armedforces family member. Much of her time as first lady has involved working with veterans, their families and support groups.

Her appearance came on the day her husband basked in the

glow of the Supreme Court’s 5-4 decision upholding the legality of the Affordable Care Act, aka “Obamacare.” She made reference to the decision, highlighting elements of the act and couching it in an overarching theme – the need to have time to move forward and finish up things underway and that need to be completed.

Her talk completed, Mrs. Obama moved to engage the crowd. Many standing in the front of the room got a chance to shake hands with her and snap pictures. It most certainly was a pro-first-lady setting.

Near the Canon Center, a downtown worker who did not make it inside volunteered that he gladly would have paid $5000 to see her, if he’d had it.

“She’s one lovely woman,” the man said. “I would just be glad to stand next to her.”

It was one of two Tennessee stops for Mrs. Obama last week, with the other engagement an address before delegates at the African Methodist Episcopal Church’s conference in Nashville.

building on the work that others have started to move the nation forward.

replied, ‘Well, why don’t you touch it and see for yourself.’

So he bent way over so the little boy could feel his hair, and after touching my husband’s head, the boy exclaimed, ‘Yeah, it does feel the same.’

“And every couple of weeks, the White House photographers change out all the photos that hang in the West Wing – except for that one. See, that one, and that one alone, has hung on that wall for more than three years.

“So if you ever wonder whether change is possible in this country, I want you to think about that little black boy in the Oval Office of the White House touching the head of the first black President. And I want you to think about how children who see that photo today think nothing of it because that is all they’ve ever known, because they have grown up taking for granted that an African American can be President of the United States.”

Her own words

Mrs. Obama capped her speech to the AME group with this story: “And when you grow weary in this work – and you will – when you think about giving up – and you will – I want you to think about a photo that hangs today in the West Wing of the White House.

“It is a picture of a young black family visiting the President in the Oval Office. The father was a member of the White House staff, and he brought his wife and two young sons to meet my husband. In the photo, Barack is bent over at the waist – way over. And one of the sons, a little boy just 5 years old, is reaching out his tiny hand to touch my husband’s head. And it turns out that upon meeting Barack, this little boy gazed up at him longingly and said, ‘I want to know if my hair is like yours.’ And my husband

(This story written from a report by whitehouse.gov.)

Tri-State Defender

INITIATIVE

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

Gowen and staff, was all about the core city initiatives. Prior to the tour, the attendees were given a brief presentation that revealed an ambitious plan to address three primary strategies for strengthening the initially targeted inner city areas (with more to come). The strategic focus is on the aggressive removal of blight, the support of existing businesses (retail and otherwise) in those areas and attracting new retail businesses to those areas.

McGowen summarized the strategy for each neighborhood, “It is a three part process: clean it, activate it, and sustain it,” said McGowen, who summarized the strategy for each neighborhood.

Tuesday, he said, was the “launch” of the initiative, also indicating that some additional study and analysis must be done to reach ultimate solutions and outcomes in each component area.

One such component is the restructure and re-branding of the Renaissance Business Center, the 12-year-old small business development center located at 555 Beale Street. Director of Housing and Community Development, Robert Lipscomb, indicated that his team is looking at updating the services offered to meet the needs of today’s entrepreneurs and rebranding the facility to reflect those changes. Those offered services will be a key component in assisting existing businesses in these targeted inner city communities with their growth and expansion.

The city has already established a successful model for blight abatement that will become a part of this initiative.

Called “25 Blocks” and operating under the division of community enhancement, it was determined that 25 block areas of communities could be targeted with concentrated efforts to clean up and mow vacant lots and address issues of abandoned properties and absentee property owners. Central to the effort is blanketing those areas with resources, time and attention over a defined period of time. The model has proven successful and presents a clear and visible change to residents.

In many instances it has spurred more neighborhood involvement and pride.

Mayor A C Wharton Jr. applied the analogy of the human body to the City.

“If the core is sick and crumbling, ultimately the extremities of the body will start to wither also,” he said. “You cannot have a strong body without a strong core.”

The mayor added this: “As we applied for the Bloomberg funds we understood the need to focus on inner city development and the strengthening of our core as New York did in communities like Harlem and others.”

The third part of the initiative is called the “Neighborhood Retail Strategy” and will involve a partnership with the Greater Memphis Chamber (GMC). Mark Herbison, senior vice president of Economic Development for the GMC, was present at the press conference.

The aim of the “Neighborhood Retail Strategy” is to strengthen existing retail businesses while also attracting into the targeted areas various regional and national retail brands, including grocery store chains, clothing retailers and other core familyneeds retailers.

Wharton briefly mentioned the nearly 27 percent poverty rate that exists among residents of the City and its concentration amongst these targeted neighborhoods. This initiative, in large part, doesn’t appear to directly address that issue but does address some of the symptoms. If the assistance targeted at stabilizing and growing existing businesses in these neighborhoods and recruiting new ones is solidified, there is a possibility of economic empowerment to those business owners and additional job creation for those that reside in the communities. However, it has to be made a high priority and executed with resource and commitment.

That is where the challenge to the community comes. This is a newly launched initiative with both funding and high promise. However, what it ultimately shapes up to be and what it delivers will be no better than what those living in those communities demand.

Each of those communities contains a diverse population that is largely African American and poor. This does not ap-

NEWS

July 5 - 11, 2012

pear to be a strategy based in gentrification, moving in middle class and wealthy while moving out poor- and moderate-income folks and calling it economic development.

But more importantly, the community has a chance to engage in this process early and often to be sure it does not become a gentrification-based strategy. Here is an opportunity to engage the Mayor’s office, his assigned administrators and to build solutions based on real needs and the wishes of the people.

McGowen said an announcement is forthcoming about a series of community meetings, town hall meetings if you will, to discuss with and solicit input from those living in and running businesses in the targeted core communities and potentially most impacted by any solutions developed. If we live in and or love these communities, it is critical that we are at these meetings and continue to be at the table as the initiative moves forward.

The future of the “hood” – our neighborhoods – depends on our willingness to engage, get involved and demand quality solutions from City leaders rather than being handed alternatives that may or may not be best for us. The only question is whether we really want to get in the game and help create change or stay on the sidelines and complain.

(Bernal E. Smith II is President/ Publisher of The New TriState Defender.)

Getting ready…

Page 3

Southern Heritage Classic Founder Fred Jones (center) shares time with brothers Jim Byrd and Darrell Byrd, McDonaldʼs restaurant owners, during last weekʼs SHC luncheon at Harrahʼs convention center in Tunica, Miss. The 23rd Annual Classic features Jackson State University and Tennessee State University in the game slated for the Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium on Sept. 8. The matchup between the two recently was extended through 2019. (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)

Page 4

OPINION

Tri-State Defender

July 5 - 11, 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

Clarence Thomas: Worse than a member of the KKK

As the nation eagerly awaited the Supreme Court’s decision on the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act, all eyes were focused on Anthony M. Kennedy, a staunch conservative who occasionally supplies the lone swing vote that tilts the court’s narrow 5-4 rulings in one direction or the other.

But this time, to the surprise of arch-conservatives who had championed his cause, Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr. sided with the liberal bloc on the Supreme Court, giving President Obama an unexpected clear victory in his signature legislative accomplishment.

What was not surprising was that Clarence Thomas would not step into the role filled by Roberts. He is widely regarded as the most conservative member of a conservative-dominated Supreme Court. Thomas is far more conservative that Hugo Black, a former member of the Ku Klux Klan who served on the court from 193771.

Black, a former U.S. Senator from Alabama (he once filibustered an anti-lynching bill) joined the KKK in the early 1920s. In fact, during the 1926 election, he gave speeches at KKK meetings throughout the state.

Black later acknowledged that joining the Klan was a mistake and became one of the most liberal members of the Supreme Court, strongly backing the principle of “one man, one vote” and using the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment to forbid racial discrimination.

No such luck with Clarence Thomas.

In every major case involving affirmative action – including Texas v.

Hopwood, Adarand v. Pena and Grutter v. Bollinger – Thomas voted against the interests of African Americans. What makes that so strange is that Thomas has benefited from affirmative action throughout his adult life.

In their excellent book, “Supreme Discomfort: The Divided Soul of Clarence Thomas,” Kevin Merida and Michael A. Fletcher, two colleagues at the Washington Post, write: “Every Thomas employer, from (Former Missouri Sen. John) Danforth, who gave him his first job, to President George H.W. Bush, who nominated him to the Supreme Court, chose Thomas at least partly because he is black. Race is a central fact of his meteoric rise, and Thomas has alternately denied it and resented it – all the way to the top.”

To characterize Thomas’ behavior as resentment is an understatement.

The late U.S. Appeals Court Judge Leon Higginbotham observed, “I have often pondered how is it that Justice Thomas, an African-American, could be so insensitive to the plight of the powerless. Why is he no different, or probably worse, than many of the most conservative Supreme Court justices of the century? I can only think of one Supreme Court justice during the century who was worse than Justice Clarence

Thomas: James McReynolds, a white supremacist who referred to blacks as ‘niggers.’”

Though arguably the worst, Thomas is by no means the only African American who votes George against the interE. Curry ests of his community.

Alabama Congressman Artur Davis was soundly defeated for reelection two years ago because he betrayed his constituents. Under the delusion that he could become the first black governor of Alabama, Davis fervently attacked local black leaders and was the only member of the Congressional Black Caucus to vote against the Affordable Care Act. Longtime Alabama State Senator Hank Sanders challenged Davis tactics.

“Some whites use race to consolidate white voters during election and some blacks use race to consolidate black voters,” Sanders wrote in his newsletter, Senate Sketches. “But this time, there is a new context: a technically well qualified black person is running for Governor of Alabama in the Democratic Primary against a technically well qualified qhite. There is also a new twist: a black person is attempting to use the race of other blacks to consolidate whites behind him. It’s a new context with new twists in an age old saga.”

The saga did not end well for Davis, who has since joined the Republican Party. He lost 10 of the 12 counties that made up his congressional district, some by as much as 70 percent. He even lost his own polling place in Birmingham.

And let’s not forget Edolphus Towns, the Democratic Congressman from Brooklyn. Though Towns did not vote for a civil contempt citation against Attorney General Eric Holder, he took a more cowardly approach by voting present. We should not be surprised. This is the same person who supported Hillary Clinton over Barack Obama in 2008. Before that, he backed Republican Rudy Giuliani for mayor over Manhattan Borough President Ruth Messenger. Fortunately, Towns is not seeking re-election.

When I look at Clarence Thomas, Artur Davis, Edolphus Towns and others we should hold in contempt, I think back to what Thurgood Marshall said about Clarence Thomas: “There’s no difference between a white snake and a black snake.

They’ll both bite.”

(George E. Curry, editor-in-chief of the National Newspaper Publishers Association News Service (NNPA) and editorial director of Heart & Soul magazine, can be reached at www.georgecurry.com. Follow him at www.twitter.com/currygeorge.)

“Every Thomas employer, from (Former Missouri Sen. John) Danforth, who gave him his first job, to President George H.W. Bush, who nominated him to the Supreme Court, chose Thomas at least partly because he is black. Race is a central fact of his meteoric rise, and Thomas has alternately denied it and resented it – all the way to the top.”

Kevin Merida and Michael A. Fletcher from the book “Supreme Discomfort: The Divided Soul of Clarence Thomas” Your letters to the editor are welcome. For verification, please include your name, address and telephone number.

Mail to: In The Mail, Tri-State Defender, 203 Beale St., Ste. 200, Memphis, TN 38103 E-mail: inthemail@tri-statedefender.com Maximum length: 300 words (subject to editing for clarity)

IN THE MAIL

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.

Declaring our independence

by Raynard Jackson

As we celebrated Independence Day here in the U.S., I wondered when the black community is going to learn the true meaning of this day when it comes to politics.

Independence Day, or Fourth of July, is about freedom to think, be, imagine and to live. In the U.S., July 4, 1776 was the day we celebrate our freedom from Great Britain. Even though the adoption of the Declaration of Independence was signed on July 2, 1776, it is celebrated on the 4th.

Our desire to separate from Great Britain wasn’t just about a geographical break; it was about the mental, as well.

So, we took the best from the Brits and mixed it with our own ways to come up with what we now call America.

Sending the Declaration of Independence to King George III was an act of final defiance by America.

George and Great Britain finally recognized America with the signing of the Treaty of Paris in 1783.

Former President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, thus freeing blacks from slavery. In many ways, blacks were more free then, than we are now. Blacks back then, had a sense of family, owned their own businesses, and fought for full rights in society.

Blacks back then never fought for “equality” because no one can make you equal. Instead, they fought for equal opportunity. Their attitude was, just remove all the artificial barriers and we can make it on our own.

Today, we allow Republicans to ignore us and the Democrats to only give us lip service. We have become

so obsessed with symbolism that no one feels the need to do anything of any substance for our community.

We, as blacks, have achieved equal rights, but not equal opportunity. So, by helping to put a black in the White House, we thought we would finally get equal opportunity. Wrong!

We have a president that has more than gone out of his way, as a calculated political strategy, to ignore the very people who gave him the largest share of their vote (96 percent). He has consciously showered upon illegals and homosexuals the spoils of victory at the expense of Blacks. And what do we do? We say give him four more years. Go figure.

So, on this Independence Day, please, black people, try to free your mind from the tyranny that is the Democratic Party and Barack Obama.

Sometimes, you have to lose in order to win. Sometimes you have to allow your opponents to win to force your party not take you for granted.

Britain was not happy that America freed itself from the monarchy. As a matter of fact, we fought several wars with Britain over this very matter. But, as a result of this sometimes deadly give and take, our two countries have become very close indeed; so much so that we have what is called a “special relationship.”

Just think, where would we be if we were only content to have independence from Britain? We not only wanted our freedom, but we wanted to establish a more fair and equitable trade policy with Britain; we wanted to pursue our own geo-political interests throughout the world; and we wanted to have our own currency—in other words, a total break from Britain.

Where our interests merged, we worked together; when they differed, we pursued our own course.

We, as blacks, need to emulate this model. If the White House wants to address the high unemployment rate in the black community, we should work with them. When they try to inject 1 million illegals into the work force, they should be opposed. When Obama tell blacks to “stop complaining,” while catering to homosexuals and illegals, we should oppose him.

Independence Day is about celebrating the freedom obtained through opposing those who are not furthering our own interests. So, on this Independence Day, I challenge blacks to stand against Obama’s political strategy that says ignore and marginalize us. Blacks should have the guts enough to protest, like the homosexuals and illegals did.

But, unlike the homosexuals and illegals, they threaten Obama with not voting or raising money for him.

Obama rightly calculates that blacks will only complain and then go out to vote for him without him having to give us anything by way of policy.

Slavery is not just physical, but also mental. We have been freed physically and legally, but functionally, we are still enslaved to the Democratic Party.

Only when we realize that the power of the vote is the true key to independence, will we be willing to vocally confront Obama’s insidious political strategy towards blacks.

(Raynard Jackson is president & CEO of Raynard Jackson & Associates, LLC., a Washington, D.C.based public relations/government affairs firm. He can be reached via www.raynardjackson.com.)

‘Kindergarten Readiness Begins At Birth’

It’s the first day of kindergarten – is your child ready to learn?

That’s the question The Urban Child Institute is aiming to help parents address with the release of their new “Kindergarten Readiness Begins at Birth” handbook.

In it, the organization summarizes best practices to promote optimal brain development during early childhood, and outlines ways parents can work to ensure their child develops basic mental, emotional, and social skills needed to succeed in school.

Starting at birth, the ability to process and respond to information is cultivated as a baby becomes more aware of her surroundings and interacts with her environment.

For parents with newborn babies, the first day of school may seem like a long way off, but according to The Urban Child Institute, preparation for this long-awaited moment should begin as soon as possible.

To succeed in school, a child must first establish a solid foundation for learning.

And during the earliest years of life – before a child steps foot in the classroom – every single thing that she hears, witnesses, and experiences shapes her foundation.

A strong foundation decreases probability that developmental and learning challenges will arise later in life, and increases the likelihood for positive academic and behavioral outcomes.

Between conception and age three, the human brain grows to reach 80 percent of its adult size. Throughout infancy and toddler stages, milestone accomplishments like sitting up,

laughing out loud, crawling, walking, and talking are early indicators that the brain is developing at an optimal rate.

The Urban Child Institute recommends that parents engage in Tarrin activities with McGhee their children that encourage exploration, introduce new experiences, and offer positive reinforcement and encouragement to promote steady progress.

In the early stages of brain development, key aspects of school readiness such as language, thinking skills, self-control and self-confidence are being determined.

Babies who are raised in a loving, supportive, and nurturing environment will have a greater chance of sharpening these skills and passing kindergarten with flying colors.

So how can you tell if your child is on the right track?

Early childhood development experts and kindergarten teachers suggest that a new kindergartener should: Know his first and last name and his parent’s first and last name.

Recognize letters (both lowercase and uppercase) and numbers (up to 10).

• Know basic colors and shapes.

• Use the bathroom independently.

• Dress and undress, and wash hands.

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• Solve problems without hitting, biting, or yelling.

• Follow instructions from teachers and parents.

• Communicate wants and needs (like hunger, pain, happiness) through words.

• Be able to be apart from his parents during the school day.

• Sit quietly for short periods of time.

• Show curiosity and enthusiasm for activities like story or art time.

According to national statistics released last year by The Urban Child Institute, over one third of children begin school unprepared.

In Memphis and Shelby County, the need to promote kindergarten readiness is reflected in low achievement, graduation and college readiness and attainment rates that currently exist throughout the community.

Early brain development has a tremendous impact on future academic achievement, and research suggests that school readiness is based on skills and experiences that children acquire in their first three years of life.

The Urban Child Institute’s Kindergarten Readiness Begins at Birth handbook serves as a great starting point for new and expecting parents to chart the course for success.

(The New Tri-State Defender has partnered with The Urban Child Institute to make sure every child has the best chance for optimal brain development during the critical first three years of each child’s life. This is one in a series of stories and columns in our campaign.)

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The Tri-State Defender (USPS 780-220) is published weekly by Tri-State Defender Publishing Co., 203 Beale Street, Suite 200, Memphis, TN 38103. Second Class postage paid at Memphis, TN.

BUSINESS

Tri-State Defender

What’s with the newfound interest in Africa?

NNPA News Service

by James Clingman Have you noticed all the current efforts to promote business opportunities in Africa? I sure have. Have you wondered how now, all of a sudden, so much emphasis is being placed on Africa by politicians? I sure have. Have you seen and heard about conferences and initiatives taking place across this nation that stress the importance of business connections with the Motherland? I have, too.

Why is this happening now? Why is Africa so vital to our economic interests now?

In 1997, I wrote a book titled, “Economic Empowerment or Economic Enslavement – We have a Choice,” in which I cited an article in Black Enterprise magazine (April 1996) that featured African-American business opportunities and relationships in Africa. After reading the article, I thought of the irony of a continent, rich with diamonds, minerals, and vast natural resources, populated and owned by black people, our ancestors, just sitting there waiting for us to come back and take care of business.

Moreover, during that same period, nearly 1 million Africans had been slaughtered in Rwanda, and the United States under the leadership of Bill Clinton, refused to intercede because “we have no interests there.” I am sure they were talking about economic interests rather than human interests.

Despite the fact that Africa, the place where civilization began, the first place God put man and gave him everything he would ever need, the place where diamonds and gold are in abundance, the place where other natural resources flourish, and the place where so much commerce and trade were established that it is now being put forth publicly as an “opportunity” by our government officials.

In Cincinnati recently, a U.S.-Africa business conference was held to “showcase U.S. business expertise to African clients and to highlight trade and investment opportunities in Africa to U.S. exporters and investors.” Johnnie Carson, the assistant secretary of state for African affairs, was there to talk about those opportunities. In an interview, Carson stated, “For American companies, Africa provides a fast-growing consumer market, and forecasts anticipate Africa will be home to seven of the 10 fastest-

growing economies over the next five years.”

Hillary Clinton also chimed in on the African economic opportunity issue at the African Growth and Opportunity Act Forum by calling Africa the “land of opportunity.” In a Cincinnati Enquirer article, Africa is called, the “last economic frontier.”

Ironically, or sadly, Africa, having been there all the time and having contained all the riches and opportunities imaginable, was not very important to our national interests when hundreds of thousands were being murdered. Now, however, it’s deemed the last economic bastion of the world. One correction: It was the “first” economic bastion of the world.

Notwithstanding King Leopold’s veiled attempt through his International African Society to “civilize” the continent, and the Berlin conference in February 1885, in which European countries cast lots for various countries in Africa, with the exception of Ethiopia who fought against them and won, it is now being held in high esteem by the U.S. powers-that-be.

Although China, Lebanon, and other countries have been investing in Africa for quite some time, believe me, the U.S. will now be in the fast lane trying to catch up and even surpass them in their efforts to cast more lots for Africa’s resources.

But what about black Americans?

For many years, black people have known about the opportunities that are now being paraded before us; Black leaders such as Booker T. Washington and Marcus Garvey advocated for African-African American business relationships, but we failed to take them seriously and follow through. Now we face being left behind and last to the table again.

In my book, I quoted Morris Jeff who said, in reference to this question, “Maybe we were sent here.” He went on to posit that maybe African Americans are the ones who, after gaining all of the knowledge we have today, are supposed to return to Africa and help develop that continent. While others are trying to make an African connection, we have had one for centuries. What will we finally do with it?

(Jim Clingman, founder of the Greater Cincinnati African American Chamber of Commerce, is an adjunct professor at the University of Cincinnati and can be reached through his web site, blackonomics.com.)

BIZ BITS BENNY Awards set for July 12; nominations open

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July 5 - 11, 2012

The Annual BENNY Awards Dinner & Gala will be held on July 12 at the Holiday Inn University of Memphis, 3700 Central Avenue, beginning at 7 p.m.

BENNY is an acronym for Black Entrepreneurship and Networking Needs You. This year’s speaker will be Cassius Butts, Regional Administrator for the Small Business Administration.

The BENNY Awards are held annually and honor service and retail businesses, corporations and business professionals who have “reached new heights, provided exemplary service, business opportunities, or leadership to further the vision of minority entrepreneurship, empowerment, business development or community service.”

Those interested in purchasing tickets or tables for the Benny Awards should call us 901526-9300 or visit the office at 555 Beale Street between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Tickets are $100 each, with tables of ten for $1000.

Nominations are open for the following cat-

egories: Outstanding Woman Owned Business; Outstanding Business Professional; Outstanding Service Provider; Business of the Year; Download a nomination form at http://bit.ly/NYdsvs. The nomination deadline has been extended until Friday (July 6).

Memphis Goodwill managers focus on customer service

Several Memphis Goodwill managers recently completed the company’s Management Development Series and received graduation certificates.

Managers studied several topics that focused on leading their teams to provide outstanding customer service to people who donate and shop with Memphis Goodwill.

Graduates are: Andrea Smith, assistant team leader at the Highland Ave. store; Alfred Johnson, Goodwill Transportation; Lena Wortham, HR Recruiter; Hattie Cole, team leader coach for 10 Attended Donation Centers; Helen Neal, team leader coach at the Bargain Barn on Stage Road; and Tina Lee, assistant team leader at the Riverdale store.

ON OUR WAY TO WEALTHY

TREPS to some, young entrepreneurs to others TREPS – according to the Urban Dictionary – is short for young entrepreneurs and the word has made its way into mainstream culture as do most words associated with things cool and hip.

Tune into shows such as “Shark Tank” or visit websites such as www.entrepreneur.com, and you are likely to encounter a growing class of business owners who are the embodiment of the term. This month, TREPS will be our On Our Way To Wealthy focus.

The desire to achieve the American Dream is not exclusive to the more seasoned among us. Children and young adults also are dreaming the dream, and they are taking steps to achieve their goals.

Recently, we have come across some young, rising entrepreneurs that may one day rival Bloomberg and Oprah. Aside from their determination and unique concepts, these young folks have a few things in common:

Though it is common knowledge that starting a business can be time consuming, these young entrepreneurs are committed Carlee their businesses.

McCullough to Through late nights, decreased social life, and a financial commitment that pulls away from other wants and desires, TREPS have committed to making their businesses succeed. Like many of their older counterparts, they have learned that sacrifice is involved. But they have also learned the balance of enjoying life.

Passion

Self-motivated

TREPS are so passionate about their product or service that many times they are starting businesses while completing their education.

Most entrepreneurs say that it is important to be passionate about the product or service that you are providing to your clients. Your passion shows through in the care and attention to detail that your clients can see.

Additionally, it makes the long hours and lack of profit bearable when the going gets rough.

Style

From bow ties to tennis shoes, TREPS have passion and style. They are in tune with young buyers and know what is hot and in demand. Young entrepreneurs are in sync with what is needed by their peers, the consumer, and more than willing to provide a more than adequate solution.

Industrious

Instead of working at McDonald’s or Burger King, these young entrepreneurs are starting early on their road to wealth. By launching businesses at early ages, they are gaining experience that folks three times their age are missing. Starting a business with their allowances or loans from family, they even have the finance part down. To say that they are industrious is an understatement.

Advanced

To fully understand the true meaning of how advanced these TREPS are, you have to know the extent of their business endeavors.

From the negotiation of distribution deals to meeting with potential investors, they are miles ahead of the peers in schools.

Many of these young business owners are still in high school and college. While other students are solely concerned with grades,

these students are making the grades, picking out fabric swatches and negotiating licensing deals.

Committed

TREPS are self-motivated and are not pushed or threatened by their parents. While the encouragement is there, they are moved by the love of what it is they do or provide.

Education is one consistency in these young adults. Education is about learning as well as about the advancement of the business entity.

Have hustle and ambition

The difference between an entrepreneur and employee is the desire and ability to execute a plan. These young entrepreneurs didn’t wait for someone to hand them a business or a plan. They took the steps to build their own destiny. This is an example of their hustle and ambition to achieve their goals in life. Believe that their hustle and ambition translates into other areas of their lives.

Faith and determination

TREPS not only have faith in their products and services, but they have faith in their abilities. The confidence to create a business concept at such a young age and the determination to put the wheels in motion in order to bring the concept to fruition are admirable traits that are consistent in these young people.

Strong team

Whether through the support of family or advisors, TREPS are smart enough to know they need a team and wise enough to ask for help. With mentors and advisors, young entrepreneurs are not afraid to reach out to folks that know more than they do about certain topics. They are not afraid to ask questions or ask for support.

(Contact Carlee McCullough, Esq., at 5308 Cottonwood Road, Suite 1A, Memphis, Tenn.

38118, or email her at jstce4all@aol.com.)

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BUSINESS

July 5 - 11, 2012

Costs of care giving

More than 65 million Americans – about one out of three adults – provide care for someone who is ill, disabled, or aged. Although these caregivers are unpaid, the total value of their efforts is estimated at $450 billion annually – more than the value of paid home health care and more than the 2010 retail sales of WalMart, the world’s largest retailer.

Not surprisingly, about two-thirds of all caregivers help someone who is age 50 or older, typically a parent, a spouse, or a friend. Most people volunteer out of love and a sense of duty, but the high expense of professional care is an important factor. The average annual cost of nursing-home care exceeds $77,000.

Unpaid informal care giving, although free, could still have a significant financial impact.

Seven out of 10 working caregivers reported having job difficulties, from changing their schedules or turning down a promotion to taking unpaid leave or giving up work entirely.

For caregivers who live nearby or with the person receiving care, average out-of-pocket costs range from $4,570 to $5,885 annually. For long-distance caregivers, who often have substantial travel and lodging expenses, the average annual cost is $8,728.

Of course, the financial burden is only one aspect of the cost of care giving. Studies show that many caregivers also suffer physical and emotional effects, especially back problems and depression. The old expression, “Physician heal

thyself,” may be appropriate. When you provide care for someone else, it’s important to take care of yourself.

As with many aspects of life, financial resources can make a significant difference. Only three percent of caregivers with six-figure incomes report suffering fair or poor health themselves, Charles Sims compared with one-third of those who have household Jr., CFP incomes under $30,000.

If you haven’t factored the cost of long-term care into your retirement needs, it may be wise to give it serious consideration. If you are caring for a loved one – or receiving care – a sound financial strategy could help alleviate some of the stress. You should contact a trusted advisor to discuss your situation and help you consider your options.

(Charles Sims Jr. is President/ CEO of The Sims Financial Group. Contact him at 901682-2410 or visit www.SimsFinancial Group.com. 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.)

Tennessee lands six companies among top-grossing black-owned businesses Ranked in 40th Annual BE 100s Report

Six Tennessee companies are among the nation’s top-grossing black-owned businesses as listed in Black Enterprise magazine’s 40th annual BE100s report.

The cornerstone of the publication’s June issue, the analysis includes 230 companies broken down into seven categories: industrial/service companies, auto dealers, advertising agencies, private equity firms, investments banks, banks, and asset management firms. The Black Enterprise list is widely recognized as the most authoritative analysis and ranking of the nation’s most successful African-American companies.

With their revenues in millions, the Tennessee companies ranked on the 2012 BE100s list are:

• Industrial/Service Companies (revenues in millions): No. 11 – Manufacturers Industrial Group L.L.C., Lexington, $356.700; No. 76 – Zycron Inc., Nashville, $35.878; No. 78 – Porter-Walker L.L.C., Columbia, $33.800.

• Auto Dealers (revenues in millions): No. 21 – Lexus of Memphis, $67.517.

• Financial Services Companies – Banks (assets in millions): No. 14 – Tri-State Bank of Memphis, $125.663; No. 17 – Citizens Saving Bank & Trust Co., Nashville, $87.376.

Black Enterprise develops rankings by collecting

surveys from companies and gathering information from government agencies, professional organizations, industry associations, business information services and corporations. The information includes totals for the 2011 calendar year, a detailed description of business activities, and confirmation that the entity is at least 51 percent black-owned, or that blacks own at least 51 percent of its controlling shares if the company is publicly traded.

The complete BE100s report is available in the June issue of Black Enterprise. Visit www.blackenterprise.com for more information.

Tri-State Defender

RELIGION

Tri-State Defender

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July 5 - 11, 2012

RELIGION BRIEFS

LIVING THE LIFE I LOVE

Freedom is ours to claim

Dear Lucy: I have a friend who has been the closest person to me for some 20 years.

We became friends in high school. I love her dearly but I think it’s time for us to part ways. I have watched her manipulate me, her husband, her family and anyone else to have her way. She is so good at out-talking others and will do whatever it takes, no matter how long it takes to manipulate people and circumstances her way. I have seen her pretend to like someone that she tells me she cannot stand and I have given in to her often just to keep from going through her drama. Each time I get ready to drop our friendship, she seems to sense it and does something nice that makes me change my mind for a while. I feel bad about myself and my inability to end this friendship.

What’s going on?

– Signed: GP

Dear GP: This is a great question for Independence Day. You sound like a person in bondage begging to be free!

I once worked for a lady who taught me that, “freedom is

For the youth…

Lucy Shaw

greatest where the boundaries are clear.”

It sounds to me like neither of you have c l e a r boundaries nor have an understanding a b o u t where to

draw the line.

When we were children, my mother made it clear that on Saturdays our work was to help clean the house. She did not care how long we slept in and we knew that we could go and hang out downtown on Saturdays with the other kids.

But...nothing was happening until that house was clean!

That’s freedom with boundaries.

We were free to enjoy our Saturdays with friends, to sleep late and anything else our hearts desired, but not until we met the terms of the arrangement. There was a lot of power in this arrangement.

The Rev. Ernest Bogard III (middle) was the guest speaker at the Annual Youth Day at Progressive Missionary Baptist Church, 394 O.C. Collins Sr. Avenue on June 24. Krishunda Thomas and Gabriel Tyler were chairpersons. The host pastor is the Rev. Dr. James B. Collins. (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)

My mother got what she wanted and so did we.

We were taught that the cost of free will is responsibility.

After all, free will is all about freedom. It is not the freedom to do anything we want to do.

It is the freedom to choose wisely, to honor the consequences of our choosing, take responsibility for delayed gratification and to respect others’ rights to be treated as we would like to be treated.

So, what does this have to do with you and your friend?

You say that she “makes you change your mind.” Nobody makes us do anything.

We have free will and get to choose our own behavior.

Perhaps it’s time you set one of the most important personal boundaries. That is the decision to own your own power.

It may be time to own the power to be who you really are, to live your own truth and own the freedom to be yourself.

This way, it is not an either-or choice. She gets to be who and what she is and you get to be who you are without having to compare yourself with her or dislike her to get there.

When we say that someone else “makes” us sad, angry, happy, bored, depressed or whatever, we are giving that other person the power and freedom to define our borders.

It is like saying your friend has the power to decide your feelings and behaviors for you.

You have given away your power and freedom to choose.

This is about you, not her.

Free will and freedom is the power to choose. It makes more sense to take full responsibility for yourself and say “I choose to get upset when she manipulates me and others.”

Instead of “she makes me mad when she does this or that.”

How about, “I allowed myself to be manipulated,” instead of, “she manipulated me?”

Here is the bigger question.

What is keeping you from choosing the option that will bring you joy? Are you afraid of what someone will think of you, what she will think of you if you choose a new way of being with her? Then, you have given away your power to choose to her. Are you allowing the real you to come forth?

No one gives us freedom.

It’s ours to claim. Are you choosing to be the real person that you want to be?

Have you grown attached to this person, this roller coaster feeling? You have three options: 1. Change the situation, re-arrange it. 2. Change the way you see the situation. 3.

Leave the situation. If you have given away your power to be with someone you no longer enjoy, you have given away your happiness to them.

You don’t have to do that.

Take back your power, own it!

Happy Independence Day. Lucy (Check out Lucy Shaw’s website at http://www.heartworks 4u.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 e-mail 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.)

You and I…

PRAISE CONNECT

The Rev. J.L. Payne, pastor of Greater Mt. Moriah Church, and First Lady Dorothy Payne, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary last Sunday (July 1) at the church. (Photo by Tyrone P. Easley)

-A WEEKLY DIRECTORY OF MINISTERS & CHURCHES-

A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.

—John 13:34

METROPOLITAN BAPTIST CHURCH ASSOCIATE MINISTERS

901-946-4095 fax 948-8311

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

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

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

Dr. & Rev. Mrs. Reginald Porter

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

TEMPLE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST

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

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.

— Proverbs 1:7

Dr. David Allen Hall Pastor

“The Founder’s Church”

First Pastor: Senior Bishop C.H. Mason

To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.

—Ecclesiastes 3:1

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

Worship Services Sunday Sunday School Worship Service

Clarence Kelby Heath Wednesday Pastor

Noon - 1 p.m.

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

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”

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

No Telecast Service

BRIEFLY: The Jehovah’s Witnesses 2012 “Safeguard Your Heart” District Convention continues July 6-8 at the Memphis Cook Convention. Admission is free and the public is invited.

(901) 948-3441

SUNDAY Sunday School .....................8:30 am Morning Worship Service ....10:00am

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

The HYPE (Helping Young People Excel) ministry at New Macedonia Baptist Church will host a youth conference on July 13-15 at the church at 1645 Carpenter St. The event is dubbed HYPE Conference 2012!!!

The theme is “I’m Chozn and Anointed”!

On Fri., July 13, the conference will feature guest artists Mr. Del and MKJ. On Sat., July 14, organizers will host a continental breakfast, along with a forum of panelists that will speak on topics such as sex, youth violence and being a Christian in today’s society. Refreshments and an “after party” will follow. A praise and worship service will highlight the final day of the conference on Sun., July 15.

The host pastor is Bishop K.D. Johnson Sr. For more information, call 901-2299035.

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

SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES

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

Believe the HYPE at New Macedonia Baptist

ST. ANDREW A.M.E. CHURCH

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

WEDNESDAY Bible Study .........................10:30 am Mid-Day Prayer Meeting .....12 noon Evening Prayer Meeting........7:00pm

Castalia Baptist Church, 1540 Castalia St., will celebrate Pastor and Wife’s 14th Anniversary with two services on Sun., July 8.

The Rev. Dr. Randolph Meade Walker is pastor.

At the 8 a.m. service, the guest speaker will be Dr. Eric Winston, pastor of Mt. Zion Baptist Church. The Mt. Zion Baptist Church Praise Team will be the guest choir.

The Rev. Ralph White, pastor of Bloomfield Baptist Church, will be the guest speaker at the 11 a.m. service.

867 SOUTH PARKWAY EAST Memphis, TN 38106

Dr. Reginald L. Porter Sr., Pastor

767 Walker Avenue Memphis, TN 38126

Castalia to note pastor’s 14 years

9 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.

—Revelation 1:8

ENTERTAINMENT Tri-State Defender, Thursday, July 5 - 11, 2012, Page 8

WHAT’S HAPPENING MYRON?

Who were those guys on the BET Awards Show?

You know something? Each year the BETAwards make me feel more and more out of touch with mainstream music. I mean I really try my best to keep up, but it seems like someone has broken the knob on the new rapper machine and it’s just Myron churning out new rapMays pers all willy-nilly.

I mean the show kicked off with three guys that I have to admit I knew nothing about until my son told me they were Big Sean, Pusha T and some guy named 2 Chainz. It’s really funny how I have to depend on my two teenage kids to tell me who some of these people are year after year. There’s always somebody new performing.

For the first time, I was actually happy to see Kanye West because he was the only one I could identify. All I can say is that the 2012 BET Awards really made me miss the days of Michael Jackson and even Stevie Wonder. Their performances made great award shows.

As a matter of fact, the show even made me miss the days of M.C. Hammer. That guy could put on a show. (lol)

Unique Dating Mixer

Notice that you always hear women say that there are no good men around?

Notice that you always hear men say that there are no good women around?

Well, there might be place to find them. But there will be none there unless you show up!

Join us for the Unique Dating Mixer at The Memphis Sounds Lounge located at 22 North Third in Downtown Memphis on July 24 at 6 p.m. There will be great music, great drinks and light d’oeuvres.

And most of all there will be other professional singles there waiting to meet you! Just contact Windy Nicholson at fflwindy@yahoo.com for more details.

Let’s read together

Calling all book lovers! Join me this Saturday for the What’s Happening Myron Book Club!

I’m just about done reading “Fifty Shades of Grey” by E.L. James and I agree with the consensus when I say it is a very good read. This is actually the first book of three and it will keep you glued.

If you haven’t read it, don’t worry. Just come on by and hang out with the rest of us as we discuss what we thought about this selection and choose what the next month’s book will be as well.

We meet at McAlisters at Highland and Poplar this Saturday (July 7) at 4 p.m.

See you there!

Eddie Griffin

This is almost your last chance to get your tickets to check out Eddie Griffin for the “You Can Tell Em I Said It Tour” on Saturday (July 7) at the Cannon Center.

The last time this guy was at the Cannon Center, yours truly was the host and got the chance to hang out with the guy backstage. He’s actually just as funny backstage as he is on stage.

Also on this show are comedians Joe Torry and Teddy Carpenter, Antoine Blackman and V Mack! Good seats are still available! You can get yours at ticketmaster.com or by calling Bernard Williams at 901-650-2986.

Tony Tone

Comedian Tony Tone comes back home to Memphis to perform at the Bartlett Comedy Spot, 5709 Raleigh LaGrange this week for 4 BIG shows this Friday and Saturday. Show times are 7:30 and 11:30 each night and admission is $10! Call 901-590-3620 for more details.

Christian Business Expo

Join Divine Magazine and NuAge Marketing for the 2012 Christian Business Expo on July 14 as The Christian Business Expo showcases businesses, non-profits, ministries & corporations making a difference in their local communities. It also provides business owners with the opportunity to connect with current customers and draw new customers.

There’s gonna be live entertainment, giveaways as well as a Kid’s Zone with Face Painting! Admission is $5! Kids 12 and under get in FREE! Call 901451-9772 or 855-456-4475 or email thechristianbusinessexpo@g mail.com to purchase tickets.

(If you have an event that you’d like for me to cover or attend, email me at Myron@whatshappeningmyron.com)

Big things and bigger dreams for 7-year-old Eddie Starks Jr. Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Bria Brown

How many James-Brown singing, 7-year-old performers do you know? I know one! His name is Eddie Starks Jr. and he’s living a life that most people can only dream about. I know what you’re thinking; the kid is 7, how could he be living such a life?

When I tell you that Starks’ resume is far beyond impressive, I’m not kidding one bit. You may have seen him a few weeks ago at the Ultimate Family Reunion, hosted by V103.5, where he opened up for headliner Curtis Blow. Or it could have been at the Hard Rock Café, the Delta Fair, Africa in April, or even BB King’s.

Starting at age 4, Starks has the talent, charisma and stage drive that makes him more than a novelty act. Little Eddie Starks Jr. can burn down a stage! When I sat down with him and his parents last week, I asked how they feel when Eddie is performing, especially at his age.

“Proud but nervous at the same time,” his mother, Jeanne Starks responds. “When he gets on stage, it’s kind of nervewracking. He’s never nervous, but we are. But very proud because he’s so young, but he looks like a veteran on stage.”

With his first single, “You Can Be,” produced by Grammynominated Memphian Kurt “KC” Clayton out for listening pleasure, the Riverwood Elementary School student is ready and eager for a full-scale launch of his budding music career.

“Well, first of all, my parents, they inspire me,” Eddie tells me before listing off a fist full of people, including Michael Jackson, Frankie Beverly, Justin Timberlake, James Brown and Justin Bieber, as some of his favorite artists. I chuckled when he mentioned James Brown and Frankie Beverly. Rarely do you hear children list Frankie Beverly among their favorite artists.

The explanation? Eddie said his dad played legendary, old school, artists around him often and that he learned their songs and learned to sing them.

“The kid has impeccable music taste,” I thought to myself as he listed off some of the artists in his iPod. Usher and Justin Bieber make the list of those he would like to work with in the near future.

Speaking of the future, Starks’ goals for his career are even more impressive than the work he has already done. Besides music, he plans to step into the world of acting and modeling.

He’s also learning to play the drums and the guitar.

(Signed to the Lisa Lax Agency, Starks can be contacted for booking through Lisa Lax or his parents. For more on Eddie Starks Jr. and his music, check out his youtube channel (EddieStarksJr) or visit www.eddiestarksjr.com, where you can find videos and a downloadable version of his single “You Can Be.”

For Eddie Starks Jr., performing already is serious business.

(Courtesy photo)

The Ultimate Family Reunion crowd got a sampling of Eddie Starks Jr. (Photo by Warren Roseborough)

ENTERTAINMENT

Tri-State Defender

Page 9

July 5 - 11, 2012

OPENING THIS WEEK

Kam’s Kapsules:

Weekly Previews That Make Choosing a Film Fun

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Kam Williams

For movies opening July 6, 2012

BIG BUDGET FILMS

“The Amazing Spider-Man” (PG-13 for violence and intense action) Andrew Garfield stars as Spider-Man in the title role of this origins adventure in which his alter ego, Peter Parker, falls for a high school classmate (Emma Stone) and solves the mystery surrounding his parents’ (Campbell Scott and Embeth Davidtz) disappearance before morphing into your friendly neighborhood superhero en route to a showdown with the diabolical Lizard (Rhys Ifans). Featuring Denis Leary, Martin sheen and Sally Field.

“Katy Perry: Part of Me” (PG for smoking, mature themes, mild epithets and suggestive content) Reverential biopic chronicling the trajectory of gospel singer-turned-pop icon Katy Perry’s meteoric rise via a combination of concert performances and backstage footage.

“Savages” (R for nudity, drug use, graphic sexuality, gruesome violence and pervasive profanity) Oliver Stone directed this grisly crime thriller about a Berkeley grad (Aaron Johnson) and a former Navy Seal (Taylor Kitsch) who join forces to rescue the girlfriend they share (Blake Lively) from the clutches of a Mexican drug cartel. Cast includes Salma Hayek, Benicio del Toro and John Travolta.

Andrew Garfield stars in “The Amazing Spider-man.” (Photo by Jaimie Trueblood/ bound, best-selling novelist who rents a cabin at a scenic summer retreat where he overcomes alcoholism and writer’s block with the help of a single-mom (Virginia Madsen) with several kids (Madeline Carroll, Emma Fuhrmann and Nicolette Pierini). Directed by Rob Reiner, and featuring Kenan Thompson, Fred Willard and Ash Christian.

INDEPENDENT & FOREIGN FILMS

“China Heavyweight” (Unrated) Two-fisted documentary revolving around the effort of boxing coach Moxiang Qi to turn raw teenage recruits from rural peasant villages into Olympic medal contenders. (In Mandarin with subtitles)

“The Pact” (Unrated) Haunted house horror flick about the spooky goings-on around the childhood home of a grieving woman (Caity Lotz) who has just returned to town for the funeral of her recently-deceased mother. With Casper Van Dien, Kathleen Rose Perkins and Agnes Bruckner.

“Crazy Eyes” (Unrated) Romantic romp about a rich playboy (Lukas Haas) who seduces and abandons a string of beautiful women until he finally fixates on the first object of his affection (Madeline Zima) able to resist his charms. With Jake Busey, Ray Wise, Tania Raymonde and Regine Nehy.

“The Do-Decca-Pentathlon” (R for profanity) Sibling rivalry comedy about a couple of estranged brothers (Mark Kelly and Steve Zissis) who decide to settle a score by competing against each other in a 25-event Olympics featuring contests in ping-pong, laser tag and billiards. With Jennifer Lafleur, Julie Vorus and Brendan Robinson.

“The Magic of Belle Isle” (PG for mature

“Starry, Starry Night” (Unrated) Coming-of-age drama about a troubled, 13 yearold girl (Xu Jiao) whose friendship with an ostracized transfer student (Lin Hui-min) blossoms into love soon after she stops cruel classmates from bullying him. With Rene Liu, Kenneth Tsang and Harlem Yu. (In Mandarin with subtitles) themes and suggestive language) Morgan Freeman stars in this drama about a wheelchair-

“United in Anger: A History of ACT UP” (Unrated) Inspirational documentary revisits the rise of the AIDS activist movement in the face of corporate greed, homophobia and government indifference.

HOROSCOPES

July 5-11, 2012

ARIES Exhilaration is high and your mental abilities are amazing. Use your intuition to brainstorm your way to a highly creative idea that could change the way you make your living.

TAURUS What you say and what you do are in harmony this week. The importance of your idea(s) comes through very clearly to others. They can see that you walk what you talk. Communicate your ideas through your values.

GEMINI If you feel as if the vibes this week are mixed at best, make up your mind to only receive the positive ones. Tune the transmitter in your soul to life and give your spiritual a workout. You are in charge of who you are.

CANCER A benefit arrives, and there’s good reason to celebrate. Claim your blessing and do the happy dance! Loving, supportive friends surround you, and family members are well behaved. Enjoy!

LEO Look forward to some pleasant news.

There is every possibility for a renewed love affair or a refreshing new romantic interest.

Free yourself from the past and make a fresh start.

VIRGO Your money instincts are itchy! Go ahead and scratch, because you’ve got the golden touch this week. Promise yourself that you’ll take at least one small step toward your dreams each day this week. You go!

LIBRA A loved one may feel a bit neglected as you pursue your material dreams with vigor this week. Time set aside for this person after you’ve made some gains will prove to be extra sweet. Try not to push a mate’s understanding nature too far, though.

SCORPIO Stay open-minded this week and you’ll actually feel the good vibrations! Co-workers will wonder at the smile on your face, but let it be your secret for now. Your smile itself will make others smile about their own lives!

SAGITTARIUS Big appetites this week! Indulge at least one of your passions and then get back to work. You are making incredible strides toward your dream by just reminding yourself of it. Drive carefully and pay attention to brake lights.

CAPRICORN Relax a bit and review your “things to do” list”. Move methodically, and check off each item as you complete them. You’ll be surprised by the progress you are making.

Spend the afternoon with family, and friends.

AQUARIUS Your best self is on parade this week, and wow! You look good! Co-workers will beat a path to your cubicle, so be prepared to turn chatterboxes away gently. Give your honey a phone call or send a loving email.

PISCES This week’s a good week to approach that person you’ve been wondering about. While you’ve been working very hard, you need to play, too. Good playmates make work seem more rewarding to you.

Source: NNPA News Service

Page 10

HEALTH

CLASSIFIEDS

Tri-State Defender

July 5 - 11, 2012

CHEF TIMOTHY

Health insurance no sub for eating the right food

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

Before the U.S. Supreme Court’s historic decision to uphold President Obama’s Affordable Care Act on June 28, the President’s detractors – particularly the combative and unyielding Republicans – made it clear that they deem their verbal jabs and incendiary remarks warranted because the president, in their opinion, is taking the country too far to the left into a dangerous, fiscal abyss.

The landmark decision came as a surprise to some and a disappointment to others. There was praise for the president, laughter from his supporters, and no doubt a few tears from his combatants and the rightwingers who vowed at one time to make Obama a one-term president.

The High Court’s decision, in effect, serves as a launch pad that guarantees that all Americans, regardless of sex, creed or color, are afforded health care.

This issue, however, is far from over. There are positives to the legislation and no doubt negatives. For example, all insurance is not created equally, and certainly all health care is not created equally. The legislation is 1,990 pages long, but written, as the President has said, to make health care affordable and accessible to

everyone. But is the future of government-mandated health care in jeopardy of being repealed?

Even if it is, there are benefits for those who never had insurance.

But there is a much bigger issue – preventive care. When Dr. Timothy President Obama signed the Moore healthcare reform legislation into law on March 23, 2012, it opened the door for men, women and children to get vision/hearing screening, immunizations and anti-obesity support. Preventive care for women includes pap smears, mammograms, colonoscopies, cancer screenings, and vaccinations for HPV, meningitis and pneumonia. There are similar benefits for men as well.

This is good news of course, but let me add something else to the mix: Preventive care, in my opinion, starts with eating the right food, exercising, drinking plenty of water, and changing one’s lifestyle. Proper nutrition is the key that unlocks the door to good health. President Obama is right on the money in terms of building a

health care model that could save millions of lives. But eating fresh fruits and vegetables could save millions of lives as well.

The passing of the Affordable Care Act and the High Court’s decision to rescue it from those seeking to dismantle it before full implementation gives hope to millions of Americans who were uninsured and unable to receive some type of health care insurance prior to the signing of the bill into law. However, to achieve optimum health and remain healthy throughout one’s life is a goal worth pursuing.

Eating the right food keeps the body replenished and unstressed even when the environment is not conducive for good health. After eating the right food, a person still needs his or her proper rest to be able to fend off sickness and diseases. So get plenty of rest and watch your body work itself into a sound working machine.

Health care reform is not a cureall, though. In fact, you must decide how important your health is to you and try not to rely too much on a system that could break down. When it comes to your health, nothing really matters if you’re not able to take control of your body.

Eating the wrong food also causes the body to break down. We are responsible for making the right food choices, even though some of the

food that we eat has no nutritional value, whatsoever. Although high blood pressure, strokes, diabetes, cancer, obesity and other ailments can ravage the body, the president’s health care reform act just may be that safety net that millions need to improve or restore their health.

I’m happy for the millions of people who need health care and look forward to taking advantage of the new law. But I’d be happier if people would just take the time to eat right and nourish their bodies to prevent any and all catastrophic diseases from causing further detriment – even death.

I applaud President Obama for ushering this incredible piece of legislation through Congress. Now it’s up to the millions of people who will benefit from it to not misunderstand why the President led the charge to insure all Americans in the first place.

(Dr. Timothy Moore teaches nutrition, heart disease and diabetes reversal through a plant-based lifestyle. He is a professional speaker, wellness coach and personal plantbased chef. He is the author of 47 Tips To Reverse Your Diabetes. He can be reached by email at cheftimothy@cheftimothymoore.com, visit him at www.cheftimothymoore.com or follow him at www.twitter.com/cheftimmoore.)

Garden to Groceries Boys and Girls Club Technical Training Center goes a step further Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Kimberly McGrew

Not even the sweltering heat could stop the students of the Boys and Girls Club Technical Training Center from selling their nutritious treats at the Downtown Farmers Market on Saturday (June 30).

Their resolve was linked to “Gardens to Groceries” – the center’s program that encourages students to grow their own foods through a new age of hydroponic gardening called aeroponic tower gardening.

Aeroponic gardening requires no dirt; just mineral water, sunlight and air.

“The purpose of Gardens to Groceries is to really expose students to the process of food production because a lot of students come to our center and they just don’t realize how many steps it took to put those bananas on the shelves at the grocery store,” said Tiffanie Grier, career placement director.

Grier said the students are trying to give people throughout the city of Memphis (especially the 38106 area) healthier options because the area is considered a food hazard.

“The kids come in from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m....They would be coming in from after school, having an after school snack and as soon as I walked through the door, the smell of grease would hit me; fried chicken, French fries, hot chips, soda,” Grier said.

Last summer about this time, Grier and the students decided to take matters into their own hands. She talked to some of the staff and board members of the Boys and Girls Club, asking them to reach out and support what the students were doing. After selling their products, the students saw that their customers (along with the board and staff) enjoyed the food and became advocates of Garden to Groceries Gradually, the students started to come up with healthier recipes, such

as healthier pizza with whole wheat crust, low fat cheese, and lots of vegetables and pesto as its base.

“The students are liking a lot of the healthier products now. I know that (junk) is what’s sold in the community, so it’s about access. There is just not enough access to fresh fruits and vegetables so they go to the corner store,” said Grier.

Rosemary, basil, oregano, cilantro, keel, jalapenos, lettuce, and squash are among the plants grown in the aeroponic gardens. The ingredients are used to make the cilantro lime jalapeno pesto, oregano basil pesto, creamy garlic humus, black bean humus, spicy roasted red pepper humus, tabouleh, watermelon de gallo, peacho de gallo, pineapple squash bread, vegan pistachio bread, olive oil lemon rosemary bread, pita bread, and pita chips.

“We have samples. Many of the students had never had food like humus before the project and were hesitant to try new things (as were the customers), but after trying it, they realized it does taste good and has lots of flavor, unlike many of the processed foods in the grocery store,” said Grier.

Demarcus Little, 19, used his charm to persuade Adel Melbert to purchase the tasty black bean humus, which was new to her. He said it takes a lot of enthusiasm, smiles, waves and good customer service to get customers to buy the products.

“I really liked it, that guy is great!”

Melbert said excitedly. “He was super friendly and made me want to go right to the table. That’s the reason why I bought the black bean humus. It tasted kind of weird. I never had it before but I’d add it to my grocery list.”

Little said he was never a big person on eating healthy until he got into the program and now he really enjoys eating fresh fruits and vegetables.

“I rarely eat junk food now. It’s a healthy eating project so I don’t want

The customer service is as good as the product when dealing with these students in the “Gardens to Groceries” program. From left to right: Demarcus Little, Ricky Coats, Amelia Butler, Tiffanie Grier and Davida Woodee. (Photo by Kimberley McGrew) anybody to see me eating junk food when I’m supposed to tell everybody else to eat healthy,” Little said while handing a bag of homemade pita chips to a customer.

Rita Ferguson, a customer visiting from Meridian, Miss., decided to stop by the student’s table at the Downtown Farmers Market and try some of their spicy roasted red pepper humus.

“It was mmm, mmm good!” Ferguson said laughing. “Up until a year ago, I never tried anything like humus. I started working at Sam’s Club and sampled them all.”

Besides the Downtown Farmers Market, the students of the Boys and Girls Club Technical Training Center sell their goodies at the Cooper Young Market on Saturdays, Botanic Gardens on Wednesdays, The Church Health Center on Tuesdays,

Ms. Cordelias’s Grocery Store in Harbor Town, Urban Farms Market in Binghampton, and John’s Pantry in Cordova.

There will be a fundraising event coming soon entitled “Farms to Forks.” Students will sell tickets to customers who are interested in dining on a full course meal with all of the local seasonal selections. People in the community will learn more about the program and all proceeds will go to the Garden to Groceries project so that the students may continue growing heart healthy, nutritious food and snacks for their community.

The students are also having a Facebook ‘liking’ contest. Whoever has the most likes on Facebook will receive a dozen cupcakes, a humus tray, three signature pesto sauces, or two loaves of their signature breads.

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Employment

WKNO ASSOCIATE PRODUCER/EDITOR/CLOSED CAPTION AUTHOR – TV To assist in producing locally originated programming for television, edits programs, program segments and interstitial materials and create closed caption files for material to be broadcast and oversee the program caption encoding process.

College degree required in Communications or related field preferred. 3 years experience in Television production. Type 75 words per minute. Computer skills with “Windows” based systems necessary. Experience in Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel required.

Apply in writing or email to: Executive Assistant 7151 Cherry Farms Road Cordova, TN 38106 dsmith@wkno.org

Drivers: Local West Memphis $1,000.00 Sign-On Bonus, Home Daily!

If you have a personal vehicle call Werner Enterprises today!

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ESL Lecturer – The University of Memphis / Intensive English for Internationals Intensive English for Internationals at the University of Memphis is seeking two ESL Lecturers to teach ESL (English as a Second Language) courses to international students.

Minimum Qualifications: Masterʼs Degree in TESL or related field with three years of experience teaching ESL at the post-secondary level, preferably in an IEP setting.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Fluency in a second language, preferably Spanish or Arabic; Significant ESL teaching experience and knowledge of the culture in a Spanish-speaking or Arabic-speaking country preferred.

Position 1 Duties:1)Teaching up to 19 hours per week in the daytime intensive program and/or in the evening and weekend community ESL classes 2)Developing programs for other special student groups 3)Developing and implementing curriculum and assessment processes 4)Coordinating local student service projects 5)Coordinating student extra-curricular activities 6)Assisting in placement testing and orientation 7)Assisting in the program accreditation process 8)Assisting the director in other administrative tasks as needed Position 2 Duties:1)Teaching up to 19 hours per week in the daytime intensive program and/or in the evening and weekend community ESL classes 2)Developing programs for other special student groups 3)Developing and implementing curriculum and assessment processes 4)Selecting and ordering textbooks, teaching materials and student library materials 5)Maintaining the IEI website, IEI database and social media sites 6)Maintaining computers and electronic equipment 7)Coordinating placement testing 8)Assisting in student extracurricular activities 9)Assisting in the program accreditation process 10)Assisting the director in other administrative tasks as needed Salary: $33,500 – $36,000Contract may be renewed yearly up to three years Start Date:September 1, 2012 Application Deadline: July 17, 2012 To Apply:Visit the WorkForum page on the University of Memphis web site: https://workforum.memphis.edu The University of Memphis, a Tennessee Board of Regents institution, is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We urge all qualified applicants to apply for this position. Appointment will be based on qualifications as they relate to position requirements without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, disability or veteran status.

Even small ads get noticed.

COMMUNITY

Tri-State Defender

Page 11

July 5 - 11, 2012

End of an Era: Hall of Famer Verties Sails Jr. steps down Legendary Southwest Men’s Basketball Coach and Athletic Director Verties Sails Jr. has retired ending a 33-year coaching career at the college.

Sails’ retirement was effective June 30. He led the Saluqis to a 709-276 record, 16 Tennessee Community College Athletic Association (TCCAA) championships and 10 region championships and National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) tournament appearances.

“Coach Sails is a living legend,” said Southwest President Nathan Essex.

“His accomplishments on the court have been recognized locally, statewide and nationally. While his basketball accomplishments are outstanding, he has served as a father figure for many aspiring student athletes. He has assisted them not only on the court but also with important life lessons off the court. We will certainly miss Coach Sails’ presence at Southwest and wish him and his family an enjoyable retirement.”

Sails was named TCCAA Coach of the Year 13 times and was inducted into the TCCAA Hall of Fame in 1994. In addition, Sails was inducted into the AfricanAmerican Hall of Fame in 2010, the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame in 2005, the NJCAA Hall of Fame in 2004 and the Memphis Amateur Sports Hall of Fame in 2004.

During his career at Southwest, Sails coached numer-

ous players who went on to play at four-year colleges and also professionally, including Lester Hudson Vertis a n d Sails Jr. McKinley Singleton, who both played in the National Basketball Association.

“I’ve been overwhelmed with emotion because this has been my life,” said Sails.

“However, all good things must come to an end. I would like to thank all of the players who entrusted their lives to me over the years and also the students, faculty and staff who’ve supported us. I’ve enjoyed these 33 years and hope we’ve done some things to make the school proud.”

In 1979, Sails was named the Saluqis’ head basketball coach at (then) Shelby State Community College after serving as assistant coach at (then) Memphis State University for five years under Head Coach Wayne Yates.

He was previously head coach at Melrose High School in Memphis, where he compiled a 132-35 record and led the Golden Wildcats to the Tennessee State Championship in 1974 with a perfect 35-0 record. Sails was twice voted High School Coach of the Year while at Melrose (1970 and 1974).

BRIEFS & THINGS HBCU royalty plan Session in Memphis

Royalty from more than 30 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are set to arrive in Memphis for four days (July 12-15) of intense training at the 11th annual Leadership Conference for Queens and Kings’ Konnection sponsored by Verizon at The Peabody Hotel.

Award-winning actress Tonea Stewart, international R&B artist Kenny Lattimore, Black Girls Rock founder Beverly Bond, national authors, CEOs, and motivational speakers will inspire and provide vital leadership advice.

HBCU queens and kings not only serve as their school’s official ambassadors, but also are elected campus officials who play a vital leadership role in student-lead activities and initiatives.

“Persons who find themselves in such positions have a great responsibility on their college and universities campuses,” said native Memphian Dale Williams, former Miss Tennessee State University (1992-93) and founder and CEO of Leadership for Queens, the coordinating agency for the annual conference. “Many are ex-

pected to be actively involved in recruitment, community and campus activities....this conference is not only an important opportunity to prepare them to serve, but it also helps the kings and queens understand their potential impact in their communities and on the image of HBCU’s overall.”

The LeMoyne-Owen College will host the conference’s much-anticipated luncheon on July 14, with Tonea Stewart delivering the keynote address.

“LeMoyne-Owen College is quite honored to be selected to host the conference for the second consecutive year,” said Ruby Hardy Minter, a LeMoyne-Owen English professor and advisor for The Royal Connection Leadership Organization on campus.

For more information about the conference, visit www.hbcukingsandqueens.c om or call Dale Williams at 443-783-8702.

BRIEFLY: Universal Commercial will host “The Intersection of Business & Government July 2012 ‘Regional Power Breakfast’” at The University Club of Memphis, 1346 Central Ave., from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. on Friday, July 13.

The capacity crowd watching Robin Thicke perform at the Peabody hotel. (Photos by Warren Roseborough)

What a difference a ‘Day Party’ makes NBAʼs Monta Ellis plays host in his new home Special to The New Tri-State Defender

by Kelley Evans

Milwaukee Bucks guard Monta Ellis experienced his first taste of hosting an upscale event and the proceeds were reaped by organizations in the city that he now calls home.

Ellis’ giving efforts were recognized on Saturday (June 30) as his agency, the ME8Foundation, hosted its first public event, Romance on the Rooftop Day Party benefitting the National Civil Rights Museum and Stand for Children. The event featured R&B crooner Robin Thicke at the Peabody Hotel’s Skyway and Rooftop.

The indoor and outdoor event showcased other artists and was filled with plenty of music, food, fun and dancing.

The temperature outside hit a scorching 103 degrees, as supporters came prepared for the heat with sun hats, fans and umbrellas.

Thicke gave the crowd almost an hour of melodic soul music. He sang fan-favorite hits, including the top-charting love ballad “Lost Without You.” Many sang along as Thicke beckoned to the crowd.

“It is gratifying to host an event like the day party and have so many people in the Memphis community support the ME8Foundation,” Ellis said.

Ellis founded the ME8Foundation in 2010 and has donated more than $100,000 toward community efforts and philanthropic projects. The foundation’s mission is to “strengthen the fabric of our community through philanthropic gifts in the areas of public service, education, preventive health, community development as well as broadening the awareness of issues that plague our community.”

Ellis and the staff of the ME8Foundation selected the National Civil Rights Museum and Stand for Children as recipients of the day party’s proceeds.

“Organizations like the Civil Rights Museum need to exist so that my grandchildren are able to walk through the doors of the museum and learn about the struggles and sacrifices of those who have paved the way for their equality,” said Ellis.

“Growing up in the inner city of Jackson, Miss., I know first-hand the disparities in educational access. I support and admire Stand for Children for all that they do to ensure children receive a great education regardless of your background

Robin Thicke delivered.

Monta Ellis and his ME8Foundation put on a firstclass affair.

and/or socioeconomic status.”

For the past two years, Ellis and his

wife, Juanika, have been raising their two children, Monta Jr. and Myla Jai, as Memphis residents, dabbling in philanthropic efforts that profit the Memphis community and his hometown.

In November, the ME8Foundation provided Thanksgiving dinner to the 50-plus families residing at the Ronald McDonald House. Families stay at the facility while their children are undergoing treatment at St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital.

The foundation plans to continue the partnership with the Ronald McDonald House through monetary gifts to help support the families with their daily needs.

Growing up only three hours away from Memphis, the Jackson, Miss. native made a name for himself with his speed and his high-scoring ability, earning the nickname “The Mississippi Bullet.”

Ellis was drafted by the Golden State Warriors in the second round (40th overall) of the 2005 NBA Draft. In his third season, he became one of the team’s top performers. He was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks in March, where he continues to be a leading scorer.

(For more information and to learn of the foundation’s upcoming events, visit www.ME8Foundation.org.)

NAACP crafts ‘Day of Unity’ with focus on HIV/AIDS

Hats and Gifts abound…

The LeMoyne-Owen College President Johnnie B. Watson congratulates first ladies Irene Basken and Elder Sherrilyn Williams and Carrie Dunnam-Peeples, daughter of Mrs. Jerry Dunnam, at the 2nd Annual First Ladiesʼ High Tea to benefit the college and the United Negro College Fund. Basken, the “2012 Woman of the Year,” is the wife of Dr. Lester Basken, pastor of Middle Baptist Church Whitehaven. Elder Williams, wife of Alton R. Williams, pastor and founder of World Overcomers Outreach Ministries Church, was the “2012 Woman of Excellence” and Dunnam-Peoples accepted the “Woman of Distinction” award on behalf of her mother, Jerry Dunnam, wife of bible scholar and online evangelist Dr. Maxie Dunnam. (Courtesy photo)

The NAACP’s National Health Department is asking African-American church leaders across the country to join the NAACP in a national “Day of Unity” on Sunday, July 8, to announce the release of the pastoral brief and training manual entitled “The Black Church and HIV: The Social Justice Imperative.”

The NAACP has worked closely with African-American church leaders conducting focus groups and roundtable discussions to identify challenges and barriers in addressing HIV/AIDS in the AfricanAmerican community. The conversations were a part of the 11-city “Let It Rise” faith tour, which featured a research component that helped to reconnect churches in their roles as leaders in social justice and advocates in the fight against HIV/AIDS in the African-

American community.

The NAACP is creating new partnerships with senior leaders of the mainline denominations – seminary leaders and national pastors – and encouraging all faith leaders to join the movement and “experience what God is beginning to do.”

Using the NAACP’s HIV Faith & Social Manual, the NAACP Health Department and African-American church leaders from across the country are coming together with the goal of reframing the conversation about HIV and addressing the social injustices that disproportionately impact African-American people.

“Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in healthcare is the most shocking and inhumane,” said Madeleine Taylor, executive director of Memphis Branch NAACP, quoting the

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. “We ask while reading this manual that you keep in mind that it is no longer just an HIV conversation, but rather a ‘social justice conversation’ centered around health equity and HIV in the black community.”

Taylor is asking all faith leaders to partner with the NAACP Health Department.

The partnership will be officially announced at the 103rd NAACP Convention in Houston on Monday, July 9, with the launch of the HIV Faith and Social Justice Manual.

Memphis area clergy have been asked to preach a sermon about HIV as a social justice issue and include HIV educational materials in their church bulletin to demonstrate the impact of HIV. They also are urged to provide HIV screenings in collaboration with local health agencies.